Month: September 2014

La Roche-Posay ANTHELIOS XL SPF 50+ Dry touch gel face sun cream review

While skin protection was never high on my priority list in my early twenties, it is fast becoming significantly important to me. I need to use a high factor cream that won’t leave my face oily and the La Roche-Posay ANTHELIOS XL SPF 50+ dry touch gel-cream fits my requirements perfectly.

La Roche-Posay is a brand I believe in, they always deliver with the best products for oily/combination skin.

La Roche-Posay ANTHELIOS XL SPF 50+ DRY TOUCH GEL-CREAM Suncream Face Oily Combination Skin

A little information on this product first:

- Very high, broad, photostable UVA/UVB protection
– Suitable for oily/combination and sensitive skin
– Optimal SPF 50+ protection reinforced against UVA rays (stricter than the European recommendation) thanks to patented filtering system Mexoplex® combined with La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water
– Dry touch texture with double anti-shine action, immediate absorption and an ultra-dry finish

I had read quite a few negative reviews on this product leaving a white paste, however, if you spread it evenly so that it is fully absorbed, the white marks disappear. I highly rate this skin protectant mainly for the dry touch texture which means there is no sticky or greasy residue and most importantly, no oily shine. As it has quite a light consistency, it is also great as a primer underneath foundation and bronzer!

These days I am less inclined to put my face in the sun and I always wear a hat on holiday so whether it still tans your face, I am unsure.

As with all sun creams, apply 30 minutes before exposure to the sun and re-apply throughout the day to maintain protection.

Skydiving with vertigo – Sibson, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire

I initially purchased a tandem skydive voucher for Jonathan as our 10 year anniversary present but after a little encouragement from friends, I decided to take a leap of faith and jump with him. After buying the skydive vouchers through Virgin’s Experience Days, we booked the jump for July this year at Sibson in Peterborough, Cambs.

I have vertigo and have suffered with terrible inner ear problems which has often resulted in dizzy spells and a fear of heights. Thus, I was a little apprehensive. We had to wait 5 hours to jump due to the weather which only made me even more anxious.

After the short induction where the instructor went through important safety procedures, I knew it would be safe. You see, there is an electronic device or something of the sort, that would ensure a spare parachute automatically opens should the need arise.

Dressed in the ultra glamorous jumpsuit we had to sit on standby and wait for an opening in the clouds. The rain was pouring, there was instant coffee, bacon sandwiches and nervous laughs filling this small portacabin cafe.

Five hours later we sat on the plane and we were on our way. I can’t even tell you how I felt at this point, I think it was a combination of excitement, confusion (why on earth was I about to jump into the sky) and sheer fear. To manage the adrenaline and anxiety I literally spent 10 minutes on the flight meditating – trying to not appear rude when people asked if I was scared. A little tip, don’t ask someone if they are scared when they are moments from jumping from a plane!

Skydive Sibson Peterborough Images Photos Skydiving with vertigo

My ears popped and I screamed the whole way through free fall but as soon as the parachute opens there is a sense of stillness. I tried to take it all in as I knew we would be landing in only a few moments but ended up talking to my instructor about working in events… Skydive Sibson airfield Peterborough Tandem Skydiving vertigo It was the most exhilarating, exciting, crazy experience of my life and I am so happy I faced my fear. I definitely would never have jumped if Jonathan wasn’t there so it was so incredibly special that we experienced it together.
Skydive Sibson Airfield Peterborough Cambridgeshire Tandem

I picked the skydive as Jonathan’s anniversary present as I thought it was the only thing crazier than being with me for 10 years. It was the perfect present. Tandem Skydive Photo Sibson Airfield Peterborough Cambridgeshire England UK

Another item ticked off my bucket list.

Pre-wedding Beauty – My Bridal Skincare Routine for Combination Skin

I started quite a strict bridal skincare routine in January of this year, which left me with 9 months to prepare my skin for our wedding.

Bridal Bride-to-be Pre-wedding Beauty regime / routine face mask exfoliant combination skin

My skin condition: With combination skin I have both dry and oily skin. I often break out in blemishes when stressed and/or unwell and I have a few acne scars on my cheeks. This was essentially my focus when selecting beauty products. And the products that I mention below are the perfect skincare solutions for me – my combination skin is finally controlled and the best it has ever been.

Bioderma (Crealine) Sensibio H20 Cleanser Bridal Beauty Regime Review Blogger

Cleanse, Tone, Moisturise

We’ll start with the basics, the foundation of my skincare regime – cleanse, tone and moisturise. I have used Bioderma (Crealine) Sensibio H20 Cleanser as a makeup remover for a year now and I couldn’t imagine using any other product. You can read my review on this product here. Removing my makeup is something I have become religious about; I just cannot go to sleep with makeup clogging my pores.

I also used the La Roche-Posay Toleriane Dermo-Cleanser around 3-4 times a week after removing my makeup. It isn’t essential and I only use it prior to an exfoliant and/or a face mask but it is affordable at £11 (from Boots) for a 200ml bottle. This is a good cleanser for sensitive skin as the ingredients glycerine and La Roche-Posay thermal spring water make it light and gentle when removing makeup, without any irritation.

I am not as strict with toner as I cleanse quite thoroughly, however, the toner I use is budget friendly at only £2.66! It is the L’oreal Paris Skin Perfection Velvety-Soft Toner, specifically formulated for sensitive skin. I’m not too keen on the scent, although I can’t pinpoint why, it’s just a budget-friendly product.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar MAT Moisturiser Review Bridal Beauty Regime Skincare Blogger

Now, the moisturiser. My favourite moisturiser is the La Roche-Posay Effaclar MAT Moisturiser, an incredible oil-free, gel moisturiser that provides a matte finish on the skin. You’ll find a more detailed review on a previous blog post here.

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant Exfoliator Review Bridal Beauty Regime Blogger

Exfoliant My exfoliant of choice is the Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant. I apply this to my face around 3-4 times a week and leave on for around 10-15 minutes as a face mask. The rice-based exfoliating powder activates upon contact with water, releasing Papain, Salicylic Acid and Rice Enzymes that micro-exfoliate dead cells, instantly leaving skin smoother. That’s the science of it, anyway. It is the best exfoliator I have found for my oily/combination skin, as it removes excess oil and leaves my face visibly brighter. What’s more, I use the professional-sized bottle and it is still 2/3 full after 6 months – therefore, it is long-lasting and worth the money!

Chanel HYDRAMAX + ACTIVE moisture mask Review Face Mask Bridal Beauty Skincare

Face Mask Although there is a good range of face masks on the market, I love to use the Chanel HYDRAMAX + ACTIVE moisture mask, which costs around £39 from most department stores like John Lewis and Debenhams. This is a product I love to apply on a relaxing Sunday afternoon with a Jo Malone bubble bath, candles and a good book.

The formula contains an exclusive moisturising agent, Ceratonia PFA*, which boosts the dynamics of skin hydration at the very heart of cells to maintain an optimal level of moisture. It is an incredibly moisturising mask, resulting in soft and silky skin.

A little indulgent treat; my guilty pleasure.

Night Creams

Now, the products that I use as ‘night creams’ are not intended to be applied at night. But they work really well for my skin in this routine. The La Roche-Posay Effaclar A.I. Targeted Breakout Corrector I apply to blemishes before I go to sleep and it is, without a doubt, my skincare saver – read the full blog post here.

The second product I use in the evening is the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo [+]. Again, you can read a review on my blog post here.

I prefer not to use an actual night cream as they are often far too nourishing and leave my skin with a shine the following morning. I am sure this will probably change as I get older but for now, I don’t necessarily need one and I would much rather let my skin use this time to breathe.

Lip Scrub

To prepare my lips for a pretty pout, I use the Bubblegum Lip Scrub from Lush. Before I apply my makeup and importantly, my lipstick, I prepare my lips by applying with my finger as the caster sugar and jojoba oils exfoliate away any dead skin. It smells delicious and tastes even better. I love this little product!

Dermalogica Facial

Two weeks before my wedding I visited Couture Beauty in Cambridge for a Dermalogica facial. It was, surprisingly, my first facial. My skin felt renewed and fresh with the most amazing glow. I highly recommend you book a facial two weeks before the big day (or even several times in the months leading up to the wedding if you can afford it) as my skin had never felt and looked so good.

Lunch at The Ritz – Affordable fine-dining

I have always lusted over photos of afternoon tea at The Ritz but I could never justify going. There just wasn’t a special occasion, well, special enough.

Until we celebrated our 10 year anniversary. I booked an extremely affordable deal through Bookatable.com – the Star Deal consisting of three courses and a glass of champagne for only £49 per person.

From the traditionally dressed porters opening the door to the antique furnishings, chandeliers and fine art adorning the walls, The Ritz is quintessentially English. Old English, that is.

The Ritz London Voucher Discount Deal Lunch Restaurant London

We were seated in the restaurant by a waiter who wasn’t particularly welcoming but pleasant enough. As it was a weekday the restaurant was relatively busy but we seemed to be the only ‘tourists’. The restaurant is breathtakingly beautiful, opulent, decedent and everything you would expect for such a fancy dining experience.

Lunch at The Ritz London Affordable Deal Luxury Restaurant Anniversary

I wore a tulle skirt with a respectable knee-length, teamed with a pale blue crochet blouse and low block heels. Jonathan wore a suit as he had just met me from work, although regardless of this a suit is necessary with the dress code.

Quite often when you book a discounted deal with a restaurant, they make a fuss and you have to request the details and/or separate menu. However, this was not the case here. As soon as we were seated a different waiter arrived with a glass of champagne for each of us and our set menu, which had a good variety of options. The service from this moment on was impeccable; classical dining service to reflect the fine-dining experience.

Var Salmon The Ritz Restaurant Lunch London Special Deal

For the starter we both selected the Var Salmon with beetroot, horseradish and orange. The presentation was exquisite, arty even, and the combination of colours, textures and flavours were simply amazing.

Navarin of lamb The Ritz Lunch Restaurant London Special Offer Deal

For the main we also both went for the same dish, Navarin of Lamb served with caramelised shallot, peas and goats curd. Don’t let the small portion size fool you, this was incredibly filling and the lamb the best I have ever tasted.

Cherry Souffle The Ritz London Lunch Restaurant Special Offer Deal

For dessert Jonathan opted for the Cherry Soufflé and I had the lemon mousse. I am a dessert girl but the mousse was a little too sweet for me. At the end of the meal we were served complimentary canapés, including a delightful mini macaroon that was just divine.

I fell in love with the elegant, decedent nature of The Ritz and yes it is pretentious but it is a wonderful dining experience. Definitely look on Bookatable.com for a deal too as it makes fine-dining affordable.

Beauty Advent Calendars 2014 – Liberty, Selfridges, Benefit, Elemis, L’Occitane

Last year I blogged about 2013 Beauty Advent Calendars and it proved to be one of my most popular posts. It is so much fun searching for these little beauties that I am doing it all again. In September, I hear you say? Yes, apparently so.

You see, companies are really starting to pick up on this whole concept of beauty calendars and this relatively new market is growing quite rapidly. Each year a new beauty calendar emerges, a little bit more special and far more chic than the rest. And the top beauty calendars sell out fast.

My top picks for beauty calendars in 2014:

Selfridges Beauty Advent Calendar 2014

The Enchanted Spells Beauty Advent Calendar from Selfridges is a must-have with 24 luxurious miniature treats including a selection of fragrances, makeup and skincare from some of the world’s best beauty brands including Lancôme, Yves Saint Laurent, Kiehl’s, Victor & Rolf and more.

Last year it was a bestseller and sold out pretty quickly, so register your interest on the Selfridges website today to be one of the first to know when the calendar becomes available.

Cost: £85 Benefit Cosmetics Beauty Advent Calendar 2014

The theme of the Benefit Advent Calendar for 2014 is Candy-Coated Countdown. So cute! I love this calendar as it’s filled with miniature-sized samples of Benefit’s bestsellers – ideal to keep in your handbag over the festive season!

Buy Benefit’s Candy-Coated Countdown from October 16 from Debenhams and www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk. You can also reserve a calendar by visiting a Benefit counter at your local Debenhams.

Cost: £60

Elemis Beauty Advent Calendar 2014

12 Days of Beauty is the focus of this luxurious beauty advent calendar from Elemis, filled with indulgent skincare surprises that are sure to delight ladies of all ages:

Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm 20g
Pro-Collagen Marine Cream 15ml
Pro-Collagen Oxygenating Night Cream 15ml
Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm 7ml
Papaya Enzyme Peel 15ml
Cellular Recovery Skin Bliss Capsules 14 caps
Revitalising Babassu Facial Wipes 4 sachets
Frangipani Monoi Shower Cream 50ml
Frangipani Monoi Body Oil 35ml
Skin Nourishing Shower Cream 50ml
Pro-Radiance Hand & Nail Cream 20ml
Treat Your Feet Foot Cream 20ml

Available to buy online now at www.timetospa.co.uk/elemis/elemis-12-days-of-beauty-gift-set/.

Cost: £59.50

Liberty Beauty Advent Calendar 2014

A design based on a replica of the iconic store combined with the quintessential Liberty print makes this a beauty calendar like no other. Packed full of luxurious beauty products from Laura Mercier and NARS to Diptyque and Eve Lom, this is a highly-coveted calendar that will look super chic sitting on your kitchen side at home!

Available in store and at www.liberty.co.uk from November.

Cost: £125

L’Occitane Beauty Advent Calendar 2014

Let’s stop a minute to fully appreciate this L’Occitane Advent Calendar, packed with 13 Pampering Treats from Provence. It may not be the standard 24 products but there is a special reason for this – in Provence, it is a holiday tradition to have 13 deserts on the festival table. A collection of luxurious L’Occitane fragrance, skincare and body beauty treats to delve into over Christmas, what’s not to love?

Available to buy from November 3 at uk.loccitane.com.

Cost: £45

You Beauty Discovery Advent Calendar 2014

Worth over £240, the You Beauty Discovery Advent Calendar is bursting with a host of premium products and it is available to non-members and members. This beauty calendar will give you more than what you pay for, packed full of products from sought-after brands including Laura Mercier, Sisley and Glam Glow, James Read and my favourite tan, Vita Liberata.

You can purchase the calendar now online at www.youbeautydiscovery.co.uk/luxury-boxes/adventcalendar

Cost: £49.95

Other Beauty Advent Calendars available:

No7 25 Days of Beauty Secrets, £35, available at Boots from October 29

Ciaté’s Mini Mani Manor, £45, available at Selfridges, John Lewis, ASOS and ciate.co.uk

La Ferme de Maurel Review – A peaceful and relaxing chateau in South West France

We stayed at La Ferme de Maurel for three nights prior to our wedding in September and it was simply wonderful. Before we go away I normally research the local area and *over-analyse* reviews but in this instance, I just didn’t have the time, therefore it was a pleasant surprise.

La Ferme de Maurel is situated a 5-10 minute drive from Le Fossat, a village halfway between Toulouse and Foix in the Ariege, part of the Midi-Pyrenees in South West France. A fully-renovated authentic farmhouse dating back to the 18th century forms the main house where the hotel rooms are located and just behind sits the rentable gite.

As we drove through the rolling countryside to the hilltop location, I must admit I was a little hesitant and concerned about the location. It felt quite remote and out of the way which is something we are not used to but what we came to appreciate.

Our room on the first floor was tastefully decorated and the epitome of chic French style. Think rustic furniture and quaint features combined with duck egg, white and grey hues; a boutique-style hotel room in an authentic farmhouse.

I think that there is only around 4 or 5 rooms in the main house and we were the only occupants, which meant I had the pool to myself all day. There is also a rentable gite to the back of the property which can sleep up to 9 and has the added bonus of a kitchen, private outdoor eating area and two bathrooms.

La Ferme de Maural Chateau Review South West France Gite Rental

The pool is kept clean and the grounds well-maintained with the open barn offering a welcome shaded area, perfect for picnics in the late afternoon sun. There is an outdoor kitchen with a fridge and an honest book, which is ideal if you fancy a glass of wine in the evening.

We ventured into Le Fossat for dinner a few nights, which is about a 5-10 minute drive. There is a Carrefoure so you can stock up on essentials and a lovely Vietnamese restaurant open all year, serving food made from fresh produce.

While I was not too conformable with the location at first, within a few hours I fully appreciated the remoteness of the property. It was so peaceful that I really had no option other than to relax. And this is something we all occasionally need. Much to my delight I even managed to read a book in two days, what with the endless hours relaxing in the hammock and on the sun lounger.

La Ferme de Maurel Review Boutique Hotel Chateau Gite Rental Toulouse Foix Pamiers France

What makes this place so special is the personable service from the owners, Ann and Jef, who went out of their way to help us when our hire car wouldn’t start one evening and made us feel welcome and comfortable in what is essentially their family home.

As it is only a 40 minute drive from Toulouse airport, it is the perfect place to stay for a long weekend and at approximately £55 per night for a double room, it is incredibly affordable.

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