Chit Chat | BB Creams

If your anything like me, you have been a little confused by this product. B.B Creams seems to be all the range at the moment, all the top retailers are bringing one out. But when I go to investigate this product on a whole, there isn't that much information about them.


Wikipedia's explanation is as follows: "BB cream, also known as Blemish Balm, Blemish Base or Beblesh Balm (due to an apparent copyright on the word "Blemish"^[1]), is a cosmetic item sold mainly in East and Southeast Asia, although larger beauty brands are increasingly introducing BB creams to Western markets as well. Originally formulated in Germany by dermatologist Dr. Christine Schrammek in the 1950s,^{[note 1]} the cream was initially used to protect skin after laser procedures and surgery, while also providing light coverage.^[2][3] Introduced to South Korea and Japan in the 1980s,^{[4][1][note 2]} BB cream has been named "the secret of Korean actresses" and has been heavily endorsed by Korean celebrities,^[5] which gained it large exposure in these Asian markets....." You can find the full explanation here. 


A better explanation is given by Cosmo: "This wonder cream is meant to be all-singing and all-dancing. It will give you a good base for makeup like a primer, even out complexion like a tinted moisturiser, cover minor imperfections and redness like a concealer, hydrate your skin like your day cream, brighten and perk-up a dull complexion and some will even protect with SPF. Some also promise healing, soothing and anti-ageing properties." Here


However, the proof lies in the pudding surely? So I picked up 2 BB Creams a round about a month ago to try out. The two I picked up are MUA Professional's, in Medium Shade 2 at the bargain price of £4.00 and Superdrug's own brand, again in Medium for £6.99 (normally £8.99).


I'll begin with the MUA one, which states on the packaging "A Multi-functional formula that works wonders to prime and protect whilst conceals to even out skin tone, for a brighter smoother complexion". Sounds good right? And I have to say it is good. I like the consistency of the product which is slightly thicker than a foundation, but does by no means behave like a foundation. When  used, the cream melts into the skin and gives a great base to work on.

The Superdrugs interpretation boasts "5 in 1 Skin Perfecting Day Cream. Conceals imperfections, 24 hour hydration, antioxidant protection, UVA/UVB filters, SPF 15". Again sounds like a miracle cream doesn't it. So the first obvious thing that it does have that MUA doesn't, is the SPF 15 and UV filters. However, most decent foundations already offer this, so if you are going to use this as a base, you could argue not absolutely necessary, but a very good bonus, if you are wanting to wear this cream alone. And that is what I would use this cream for. I would use it if I wanted a light coverage. The consistency of this cream is a bit runnier than the MUA one, and I didn't like it as much as the MUA one. However that doesn't mean I don't like the Superdrug one because I do.

I do plan on getting a few more of these creams to try out, because I do like the concept. I can tell you that what I have learnt so far. The creams, do act as a great make-up base, whitest it would be completely personal preference whether you eliminate your primer from your routine or not, I don't mind using the MUA one as my primer. In terms of concealment, I do think they offer a bit of coverage, however I wouldn't be ready to eliminate my concealer just yet. They both act as a great moisturiser.

But the big question being are they as amazing as they are cracked up to be? Again I think that is all down to personal preference, for me the answer would be, I like them, but they are not the be all and end all. My preferred one out of the two I have tried so far is the MUA Pro one. If you are looking to try one out I would defiantly recommend it, and at  just £4.00 if you didn't like it that much it wouldn't be the end of the world.



Anyway I think I have waffled on about these enough now, what do you think? Have you tried BB creams yet? Drop your comments below and let me know your thoughts.

xx

7 Things... Progress Report!

Hey Guys,


So last week I decided to get involved in 7 Things created by Louise from Sprinkle of Glitter. You can see the post here. I thought I would update you guys, on how I am getting on.


So here are the seven things I listed, and how I am getting on with them...

1.) Get Organised - As you probably already know, I am getting a little obsessed with storage solutions, but I still haven't got everything just as I want it so I am going to concentrate on one area a week until it is just how I like it. This week I will be working on my Walk In Wardrobe (it's not as posh as it sounds!).
So I have been trying to get this how I want this, but it is stressing me out a little! This is because I know what I want to do in there, but I can't do it yet, I want to get a dressing table that will fit in there, and then I want to get some acrylic boxes from muji to store my make-up in. But obviously that costs money, which I am trying not to spend at the moment! So this is still an ongoing task, but when its finished I will film it :)


2.) Get Active - Up until around 6 months ago, I was working hard at eating healthier and doing more exercise, but since my illness, I have not really done that much, and the pounds I lost have been creeping back on. So my plan is to workout at least 2-3 times a week and try and get more activity back into my life to try and lose those pounds again!
So I think I have done quite well here, I have been eating healthier than usual and I worked out 3 times, I went to the gym once, and went for a long walk another day, and I also did an aerobics DVD. I don't know if I have actually lost weight, I should probably check that out! But I do feel better in myself, that I am actually working towards a healthier me! 


3.) Stick to my Diet - In line with the same as the above, I have been doing a bit of YoYo dieting which is never a good move, I really need to stick to the plan, which currently is Rosemary Conley's Inch Loss Plan. I am determined to stick to this, and I will of course report back the results.Like I said above I am doing ok at this. I have been following the diet, but I didn't follow it exactly over the weekend as we went to Nandos Gignics and there was a lot of free food and booze on offer! But I still think I did good!

4.) Get Reading - I used to be quite an avid reader! But other time, I have read less and less, especially with all my prised books being tucked away in storage at the moment. However, I have been taking books out of my local library but never actually get around to reading them. I have just taken out My Sisters Keeper, and I am determined to read this book!So I have started reading this book, and I have been mostly reading while travelling on the bus or train. So while I am reading, I really want to be able to read in my free time at home. So I am going to work on that this week, light some candles and just read.

5.) Blogging - This seems like a bit of a cop out, as clearly I already do this regularly, but what I mean is, I want to write more interesting posts and find my individuality within the world of blogging. Any suggestions? Let me know in the comments or drop me an email hattiecc@live.co.uk
I suppose I can't really judge this one, so please feel free to leave your comments about how you think I am doing here!

6.) Chill Out - Probably sounds almost selfish, but to be honest I just don't know how to 'chill'. I allow myself to get very stressed out and tired, which does not help my illness, and don't spend enough time taking time out for myself, so this week I want to take some quiet time, face masks, long baths, meditation and some trips to the Health Spa. 
I'm not going to lie, I think I completely failed at this! I did chill out in the sense I had some 'bed' days but that was through having bad days from my illness. Me and Brett chilled on Sunday and did literally nothing, but I still need to get down to the health spa and have a jacuzzi and a sauna!


7.) Get financially sensibles! - Since I had to give up my job due to my illness, I have found it increasingly difficult to getting used to having no pennies of my own! My husband (God Bless Him) is fantastic at supporting us both and works very hard at doing so. However I need to learn that I can not just go on my little willy nilly shopping trips anymore, and need to start planning what to do with my 'allowance' as such! But I am sure you all know how difficult it is to resist the latest lipstick, the drawer of a new nail colour, and even worse I have a swish Mac store down the road! I haven't bought anything yet though so at least I am controlling that!
I have really made an effort at this, and although I am only a week in, I think I have done good. This week I have a bigger incentive, as we have a problem with Brett's car which is not going to be a quick fix, so we need to return to Peterborough to pick up mine. I am so excited about this, as once my car is here, I will be able to start having lessons, and going home means I can see my friends and most importantly my mum. So I am looking forward to that, and I will definitely be careful with pennies so we can have a fun time!




So far I think I have done ok, but I could put in a bit more effort, what do you think? Do you think I could do a better job? Let me know your thoughts.... xx 

My Review of: Collection 2000 Shimmering Mosaic Glow

So this review is on one of my most favourite products of all time! This bronzer has been one of my most repurchased items ever. I have been buying it for about 3 years and I LOVE it

The bronzer is made up of several different shades, with a hint of glitter for a nice shimmer. The product is build-able so you can wear it subtly, or build it up for a full on bronzed shimmer on the cheeks.

This product retails at just £2.99 so a complete steal! I would highly recommend this product to anyone looking for a versatile bronzer. I am a true fan of Collection 2000 in general, brilliant products at a reasonable price. There is not a lot more for me to say than go out and get it, you won't regret it.

I know this a short review and I hope you won't mind. But I really enjoy using this product and thought you might as well. xx

Giveaway Update...

So as you may or may not already know, I will be opening a Giveaway when I reach 500 Subscribers on my YouTube channel  HERE.

I listed the products I would be giving away (so far) a little while ago, but there are now some additions, and I have also posted some pics. So if you are interested in winning this prize when the giveaway opens, go and subscribe to my channel, and when I reach 500 subbies, I will do a Giveaway Open video, with the details of how to enter.

I will be buying continually while I am waiting to hit 500 subs, so each time there are additions, I will post them here.

Whats in this bag of gifts so far....?

FACE: Almay Pure Blends Loose Powder, Collection 2000 Shimmer and Shade, MUA Blush.

NAILS: Primark Nail Polished set of 4, MUA Polish

EYES: Rimmel Glam Eyes, Collection 2000 Dazzle Eye Dustx,
Collection 2000 Glam Metallics Eyeliner, Collection 2000 Glam Glitter Wand

LIPS: Revlon Lip Glide, MUA Lipstick

Exciting stuff.... more to come!!


Thanks Lovables! xxx

Glossy Box: June 2012

Well it has arrived! My first ever Glossy Box! Excitement bubbled within me as I tore open the packaging to find out what my first 5 items are. So here it is.... June 2012's Glossy Box.

The Products

Summer Warmth Bronzer by BM Beauty

Product Description

"A medium, golden mineral bronzer which flatters most skin tones. Sweep over the face for a Summer glow, use as an eyeshadow, or even mix with body lotion to create a shimmering bronzing cream." Glossy Box

I love a good bronzer, so was so please with this, the product is great, not too 'glittery' like a lot of bronzers. I would happily buy this product at the normal price of £8.00 (4g)

Serie Exclusiv Pro Beauty Brush by Glossy Box


Product Description
"This timeless and classic series in matt black comes in a noble and elegant design. Made with best quality goat hair with natural tips from Asian mountain goats. The supersoft hair is collected when the cost is trimmed, then sanitised and bundled by hand to make these smooth and resilient cosmetic brushes. With lots of volume, these brushes can absorb large amounts of powder and apply your make-up in a soft way." Glossy Box


Being honest, while I think the brush is good, I personally wouldn't pay the usual price of £15.00. But this is just personal preference.

 Sexy Pulp Mascara by Yves Rocher France


Product Description
"For an even more glamorous look!
Its generously curved brush perfectly hugs your lashes for lash-by-lash volume without clumping. Its creamy texture thickens and coats lashes without weighing them down for even more volume." Glossy Box

I really love this product, it has similarities to my fave mascara Rimmel Scandel Eyes, although the brush is a different shape. At £16.90 for 9ml, I need to use this a bit more to think whether I would buy it.

Dermablend™ Ultra-Corrective Foundation Cream Stick by Vichy Dermablend

Product Description

"Dermablend Corrective Foundation is ideal for camouflage of skin concerns such as dark circles, acne marks, redness, dark spots, vitiligo, and the masking of tattoos. Product benefits: 40% pigment concentration- Twice the coverage of a traditional foundation.
Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic.
Sweat resistant & water resistant.
SPF 30.
Long lasting-14Hr hold.
Natural finish, with no mask effect.
Available in 7 shades"

This product absolutely does what it says it is going to. However for me personally I don't feel I would have the use for this as I don't want this much coverage. But if you are someone that wants a lot of coverage, or you have something you want to cover up, then this is definitely for you. At £19 for a full sized product of 12g, I think that is a pretty reasonable price.

Eau Provocateur by Agent Provocateur

Product Description

"Agent Provocateur ‘Eau Provocateur’, a new collection of three new feminine, sensual and tantalizing day fragrances.

These 3 new ‘Eau Provocateur’ scents are individually unique but when brought together offer an array of sensuality and a variety of permutations for the imagination. The spirit of Agent Provocateur is not purely for night time pleasures as this stunning new collection of lighter fragrances epitomizes the playful side of modern femininity and celebrates irreverence, confidence and female empowerment."

By far by favourite product in this edition! These perfumes are gorgeous! My most liked is the red bottle. I have worn it twice already! Gorgeous. I would definitely splurge the £39.00 on 50ml of this beauty.

So there we have it, my first Glossy Box. I am over the moon with the first lot of products, and would definitely recommend Glossy Box to anyone who asked. Hope you enjoyed... xx 

7 Things...

So as you probably already know, I adore Sprinkle of Glitter's aka Louise, blog and youtube channel, and she recently started doing a 7 Things for & days post. Lots of people were wanting to get involved, so she has made it 'interactive'. Grab all the info here: http://sprinkleofglitter.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/interactive-7-things-for-7-days-june.html

The basic outline is, 7 things that you wish to achieve, whether that be in 7 days, or a month.

So here are my '7 Things'!

1.) Get Organised - As you probably already know, I am getting a little obsessed with storage solutions, but I still haven't got everything just as I want it so I am going to concentrate on one area a week until it is just how I like it. This week I will be working on my Walk In Wardrobe (it's not as posh as it sounds!).


2.) Get Active - Up until around 6 months ago, I was working hard at eating healthier and doing more exercise, but since my illness, I have not really done that much, and the pounds I lost have been creeping back on. So my plan is to workout at least 2-3 times a week and try and get more activity back into my life to try and lose those pounds again!


3.) Stick to my Diet - In line with the same as the above, I have been doing a bit of YoYo dieting which is never a good move, I really need to stick to the plan, which currently is Rosemary Conley's Inch Loss Plan. I am determined to stick to this, and I will of course report back the results.


4.) Get Reading - I used to be quite an avid reader! But other time, I have read less and less, especially with all my prised books being tucked away in storage at the moment. However, I have been taking books out of my local library but never actually get around to reading them. I have just taken out My Sisters Keeper, and I am determined to read this book!


5.) Blogging - This seems like a bit of a cop out, as clearly I already do this regularly, but what I mean is, I want to write more interesting posts and find my individuality within the world of blogging. Any suggestions? Let me know in the comments or drop me an email hattiecc@live.co.uk


6.) Chill Out - Probably sounds almost selfish, but to be honest I just don't know how to 'chill'. I allow myself to get very stressed out and tired, which does not help my illness, and don't spend enough time taking time out for myself, so this week I want to take some quiet time, face masks, long baths, meditation and some trips to the Health Spa. 


7.) Get financially sensibles! - Since I had to give up my job due to my illness, I have found it increasingly difficult to getting used to having no pennies of my own! My husband (God Bless Him) is fantastic at supporting us both and works very hard at doing so. However I need to learn that I can not just go on my little willy nilly shopping trips anymore, and need to start planning what to do with my 'allowance' as such! But I am sure you all know how difficult it is to resist the latest lipstick, the drawer of a new nail colour, and even worse I have a swish Mac store down the road! I haven't bought anything yet though so at least I am controlling that!


So there we are, my 7 Things! I am probably only going to post my list of 7 things once a month, but I will update you more regually on my progress. Why not get involved? Head over to Louise's blog, and check it out. 


Thanks for reading Loveables, and if you do decide to get involved, let me know! Comment below :)
Lots of Love, H x

Shopping Heaven: Braehead Shopping Centre, Glasgow

This is the first in what will be a line of posts about Shopping Centres. As you all know, I <3 Shopping oh so much and I thought it would be nice for me to give you my opinions on the Shopping Centres I visit.

So Braehead Shopping Centre was the first to get my undivided attention this weekend.

The shopping centre itself is massive, with well over 50 shops, and a huge Food Hall, add to that it is right next too Braehead Retail Park and a huge Ikea, you've got yourself a nice day out!

The shopping centre has plenty of parking and regular buses, so the transportation links are good. When entering the centre from the car park where Marks and Spencer's is, you walk in to a well kept glistening shopping centre. Shops range from M & S, to HMV, to Superdrugs, to Lipsy and Primark. The centre also boasts an impressive Apple store. There is something for everyone here.

I know that Primark is often a big factor of why people would go to a particular centre, it certainly is for me. So a brief run down of this particular store is an impressive one. Clean and tidy (not always the case for Primark), initially you would think this is quite a small store. But it isn't, stretching across just one floor, there is a huge women's area, men's and kid's. This Primark also contains a pretty good Home section. Out of the six in Glasgow, this is probably my 2nd favourite.

There is also a pretty large New Look store, and again this is my 2nd favourite in Glasgow. Myself and my husband will spend a good few hours wandering aimlessly around Braehead, popping in and out of shops, usually buying things we didn't intend too.

As I mentioned before, Braehead also has a fantastic food hall, making it easy to spend your day here. A great range of food outlets to choose from, including fast food chains such as McDonalds and Fat Jackets, and some higher end casual dining restaurants, Prezzo, Handmade Burger and more. If you are visiting the centre, bear in mind that lunchtime is peak time, and you may have a short wait, but it will be worth it. The restaurants in the centre are well decorated, and exactly as you would expect to find them.


Back on to the shopping experience, none of the shops seem cramp, and you can browse through them at your leisure, and with the brilliant opening hours, there's no need to rush. Open from 10am to 9pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 6.30pm on a Saturday and 10am to 6pm on Sundays, these hours will suit everyone's individual lives.


Also next to the centre in Xscape which is home to SNO!zone, Odeon Cinema, Bowling Alley and more, you really can have a full day here.

My overall opinion is this shopping centre is ideal for shopping addicts, families, days out, anyone really. You will find whatever you are looking for, and if you need any help with anything, you won't have an issue.

This is by far my favourite shopping centre in Glasgow. I hope you get time to check it out, you won't regret it.



LINKS

Braehead Shopping Centre: http://www.braehead.co.uk/
Xscape: http://www.xscape.co.uk/
Breahead Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/Braehead

My Review Of: Accessorize Translucent Face Powder

So after discovering that Accessorize do a Make-Up line, I was intrigues and had to buy something to try out. I stood at the counter ages deciding what to get, I could of bought loads of pretty items, but I settled on this beautifully packaged translucent pressed powder.

I picked this up in Superdrug for around £4.95. My honest opinion of this product.... Probably one of the best products I have EVER bought. I use this to seal in my foundation, then pop it in my bag for touch ups through out my day. It doesn't look cakey and isn't visible on the skin.

To add to how wonderful this product is, the packaging is stunning, leopard print design with pink roses on a gold box. When you open it up, it has a lovely little sponge, with a little Accessorize tag, that acts like a handle. Under the sponge, you lift a little see through cover which is hinged on properly, not a flimsy thing that eventually goes missing. Then you find the powder. Of course then there is the mirror to finish it all off.

The quality of this powder is great and at just under £5.00 you can't go wrong. If I compiled a Top Ten Favourites right now, this would be in it! I can't wait to try out some more of the Accessorize Make-Up range. They have some gorgeous palettes on offer, and as soon as I get my hands on them I will let you know what they are like!

Hope you have found this useful. xx

Accessorize Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/AccessorizeGlam

Check out my new AVON eBrochure!

Check out my new AVON eBrochure!: Hi Everyone! Here's a sneak peak at some of the latest products available in my Avon eBrochure. Be sure to click

If you would like to order anything from me please get in touch at hattiecc@live.co.uk

Giveaway Update

Hi Guys,

Just wanted to give you a bit more information about the giveaway.

The giveaway will open when I reach 500 subscribers on youtube, this seems like a way off, however the bonus is, I will be buying the prizes up until I reach this number.

When I open the giveaway it will be open for 5 days, and a winner will be chosen at random.

To give you a taste of what you could win, here is what I have collected so far....

Almay Loose Finishing Powder in Translucent
Rimmel Glam Eyes Eye Shadow in Royal Violet
Collection 2000 Glam Glitter in Showbiz (Black)
Collection 2000 Dazzle Me Eye Shadow Pot in Mystery1 (Black)
Collection 2000 Dazzle Me Eye Shadow Pot in Paradise 21 (Gold)
Collection 2000 Glam Metallics Eyeliner in Fierce 2 (Gold)
Collection 2000 Shimmer and Shade in 1 Pink Me Up
Revlon Lip Glide in Glistening Sand 03 (Nudey Brown)

I will do a proper video on this, and post pics of all the items as I collect them.... as you can see I have already collected 8 items, and I am only at 94 subscribers! So I would imagine this Giveaway is going to grow quite a bit!

So if you want to be able to the giveaway pop along to my Channel (link below) and subscribe if you haven't already!

Thanks Lovables.... xx

My Review Of: L'Oreal Rouge Caresse Lipstick

I picked up this Lipstick last week during a trip to Superdrug, taking advantage on the 3 for 2 offer across all cosmetics.

I picked up colour 301 Dating Coral. It is a Coral colour, with peachy pink tones. It is gorgeous on the lips. Feels silky smooth and lightweight on the lips. It does not dry the lips out, and in fact it almost feels hydrating.

This lipstick is available in 13 different shades and retails at around £7.99. It is perfect for the summer, and the colour is on trend. Although as previously mentioned, this is available in plenty of shades if this is not to your tastes.

I have been using this product almost everyday since I purchased it, and I highly recommend.

This is available at all the usual places, check out the website for stockists.

If you are looking for a good quality lipstick that's not going to feel horrible on your lips throughout the warmer (I won't say hotter) months, then this is for you.

If you have any review requests or questions, feel free to get in touch at hattiecc@live.co.uk.










Links:

http://www.loreal-paris.co.uk/cosmetics/lips/rougecaresse/301-Dating-Coral.aspx

GIVEAWAY!

Hi Guys,

Just a quick one for you!

I am doing a giveaway on my YouTube channel when I reach 500 subscribers!

I was going to do it at 100, but subscribers are happening quite quickly!

I have already started buying for this giveaway, so pop over to my channel and subscribe! I will do a proper video on the giveaway soon :)

MY CHANNEL http://www.youtube.com/user/HattieBlog?feature=guide

Thanks guys!

My Review Of: Rimmel ScandelEyes Mascara

So like I said in my last review, I am not much of a Rimmel girl. But when I did the Tesco 3 for 2 Spree I picked up a couple of products, this mascara being one of them. Once again I have been presently surprised. Rimmel says that this mascara is the largest wands from there range yet. Containing collagen and keratin, this mascara claims to boost volume, and look after your lashes at the same time. I love it.

The volume it gives my lashes is great, and I have worn it everyday since I got it! This is going to end up being another of the products that I regularly buy. I used to be a really big fan of false lashes, but when I am wearing this, I don't feel the need. I will make sure to post some pictures of me wearing this soon. The other thing I love about it is that it isn't a complete mission to remove it. It comes off quite easily with my make-up remover, yet it doesn't run or smudge whilest wearing it.

This is only a short write up as there really isn't much for me to say other than, go get it. This product is available in all the usual places, and normally retails around £6.99.



I hope this is useful if you are looking for a voluminous mascara.

Want to know where to find me.... links in the sidebar :) xx

My Review of: Rimmel 'Wake Me Up' Foundation

Its quite unusual for me to try out a Rimmel foundation, as being honest, I have never got on with them and gave up trying. But when I saw that the foundation YouTuber Zoella is in fact Rimmel's 'Wake Me Up' Foundation I wanted to give it ago as her skin always looks great.

I picked mine up at Tesco during my little 3 for 2 Clubcard Spree. It is usually around £8.99.

As you know I pride myself on being completely honest when I do my reviews, and I was presently surprised when I tried this out. It has a lovely refreshing smell to it and glides on to the skin beautifully. I have applied this with a brush and with my fingers, and both times it was flawless.

It really does make my skin look radiant, which is good as the bottle claims, "Anti-Fatigue Effect and Radiant Glow". It is also SPF 15 which is pretty standard in foundations these days, but all the same a good feature.

The foundation is only available is six shades, which compared to over leading brands, is a pretty limited selection. I am lucky enough to get on well with Shade 103 True Ivory. It has a pump action dispenser, (hurrah no un-washable brushes here!) which doesn't dispense to much at one time. 

I have to say, this is more than likely going to become one of my regular buys, and may well take the place of my L'Oreal True Match Foundation. It is no where near as cakey or thick. So I have been won over again by Rimmel, who for a long time I have avoided. as you know, my most loved foundation is Elizabeth Ardens Flawless Finish, but this is a great alternative, if you don't really fancy the £25 price tag of that one.

You can find this product in all good drugstores, and Rimmel stockists.

I hope you enjoyed the review :)