Effaclar Duo - A Most Disappointing Product

I know the hype for this was a while ago, but it really was a huge hype.

I like many, thought that this would be the magic cure to break outs however I found it very disappointing.

La Roche Posay Effaclar duo claims to:

• Correct the appearance of Blemishes
• Unclog pores
• Smooth and Refine Skin Texture
• Control Shine

Sounds like an all round winner?

This product did none of the above and in fact make my skin worse.

I applied it all over my face which resulted in painful, tight and peeling skin

I then tried it as a direct spot treatment with brought under the skin spots to the surface but also brought up other spots.

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The Importance of Exfoliation

image via: http://giphy.com

I would be lying if I said that I have a religious exfoliation routine - because in truth who has the time/ can be bothered.

But exfoliation has a plethora of benefits and should be, if at all possible, introduced into your weekly routine.

Some of these benefits include:

1. Getting rid of Dead skin cells - as we age our natural ability for cell turnover and shedding dead skin cells slows downs - through exfoliation you can get rid of any dead skin cells that may be clogging up your pores resulting in breakouts. 

2. Exfoliation actually leads to smoother, and brighter skin - as it encourages the external dermal layers of the skin to regenerate, revealing fresh new and smoother skin.

3. Smoother Shave and a Better Tan - we've been told again and again that exfoliating is crucial for a closer shave and a long lasting tan - but why is this? Exfoliating removes the dead skin cells on the surface layer of skin leaving soft smoothe new skin to shave and skin that will hold your tan a lot longer  than if you didn't exfoliate.

4. Exfoliation is crucial when dealing with ingrown hairs, as it allows the hair to break through the skin.

5. Exfoliation is actually very beneficial to the health, as it increases the blood circulation and stimulates the lymphatic system which in turn encourages cell turnover, helps break down fatty tissue and drains out toxins from the skin.

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Nail Colours For Spring/Summer 2015

When it comes to nail colours I truly believe that no rules apply.

It doesn't matter what your skin tone, hair colour, or how old you are - beauty is not age discriminatory - it can be enjoyed at all times of life - after all a lipstick can be just as pleasing at the age of 19 as it is at 90.

I can honestly say when I have my nails painted I feel like I have my shit together. It may seem like a trivial indulgence or extravagance even (especially if you've had them done professionally) but there is nothing quite like having freshly painted shiny nails that make you feel that little bit more put together.

Here is my selection of the key colours for this Spring Summer:

Lottie London, Lottie Laquer, Rainy Day Nude - £5.99

Max Factor Max Effect Nail Polish Ivory 1 - £4.99



Essie Nail Polish Fifth Avenue - £7.99  


         Barry M Gelly Nail Paint Papaya - £3.99










Essie Summer Nail Polish Naughty Nautical - £7.99

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Avoid That Post Shower Frizz With This Brilliant Duo

There is nothing quite like the feeling you get after you've washed your hair.

In my opinion it is one of the most restorative things you can do for yourself - you might look and feel shit but hey at least your hair is clean and smelling fresh.

Nevertheless I cannot stand that post-wash frizz my hair can get as it dries. It doesn't matter if I let it air dry, blow dry or use straighteners the end result is always a tad bit frizzy at the very top of my crown.

However I think I have found a solution to this problem.


Since using the OGX kukui oil shampoo and conditioner I've noticed an immediate result - my hair dried smoother, looked more nourished and shiny and most importantly less frizzy.

They contain an ancient Hawaiian ingredient, oil from the kukui tree, the oil is a rich emollient which is helps seal the hair shaft avoiding that pesky un-wanted frizz.

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How To Prevent The Rain From Ruining Your Hair

image via: http://sites.psu.edu/

I actually really love the rain, there is something comforting about the smell of rain which is fortunate as living in the UK means I have come very accustomed to the rain and it's effects on the hair.

Rain can ruin any hair do, making it frizzy,  dry and kinky.

Preparing for a rainy day and the effects it can have in your hair should (if at all possible) start before you've even left the house.

• Start by spritzing some heat-protective spray on wet hair as it can help create a barrier from the humidity.

• Once dried (naturally or with heat) add something like an anti-frizz product, or a hair serum to  help smooth down the hair cuticles and protect against any unwanted frizz. Just make sure you keep the application light, as too much can make your hair look greasy.

• Remember - Hair Spray is your friend - it can smooth down any unruly sections of hair.

image via: http://www.flutterandpout.com/

After It Has Got Wet -

• Try and dry it as early as possible - the longer you leave wet hair the frizzier it can become.

• The best option is to opt for an updo.

• If you are going to wear it down forget any hope of a sleek straight look, but work with the texture the rain has given you.

• Try not to touch it too much! The more you play around with it the bigger your hair can become.

• For a make do hair serum, rub a small amount of hand cream or moisturiser between your palms and very lightly smooth down the hairs that may be frizzy and standing up at the crown of your head.