July Favourties

Okay, seriously how quickly did that month go? Time is flying by scarily quickly at the moment! It has been an amazing month, mainly because it was my birthday, so I got to spend time with loads of family and friends. But before I ramble too much lets rattle through some of my favourite beauty products of the last 31 days.

Dr Lipp's Original Nipple Balm For Lips (£12):
I won't ramble too much about this one as I have a post dedicated to it here, but it has been the only thing to go on my lips during the massive swelling/peeling/burning episode they had this month and it helped hugely. The swelling has completely gone and it was down to this pricey but worth it balm.

Sweat Proof Makeup

Given the weather is meant rapidly heat back up this August (do I believe that? Probably not, but bare with) I thought I would compile some of my favourite products for creating a sweat proof face. Obviously no/minimal makeup is always acceptable and heat-resistant, but this is my go-too look for full-face worthy events in the summer.

My Lip Saviour

These last few weeks my lips have been playing absolute havoc. From swelling to shedding and back again repeatedly they have been so painful and very unattractive. Even my mum thought I had secretly gone to have very uneven lip implants! Every lip balm I use regularly made them sting more and swell again, it was a nightmare! Then I found a sample of Dr Lipp's Nipple Balm For Lips and it changed everything, the swelling has completely reduced and the skin is beginning to feel soft again.

Saving Pennies: Beauty Loyalty Cards

It's my birthday tomorrow! So inevitably I am spending the day shopping and have finally booked myself in for my Mac 90 minute makeover which I got for Christmas. However, currently being broke means I'll have to be a little careful with how much I spend, which got me thinking if I had any points to use to soften the blow to my bank account slightly. So I thought I would talk you through the best in beauty loyalty cards so you can get the most from your money.

Here Comes The Sun: SPFs

When it comes living to the UK hot weather is not expected, and is usually greeted by lots of grumbling and complaining. This is the same for snow, cold weather and overly excessive rain or thunderstorms, basically anything that isn't damp and slightly overcast gives us Brits a good excuse for a moan. Because we are so used to mild and usually wet weather it seems that we aren't that good at preparing for the sun, so I've complied some of my favourite SPFs so you can be ready for if/when we are lucky (can be swapped with unlucky) enough to have another 'heatwave' this summer.

The Best Fake Tan For First Timers?

I basically never tan. Being naturally pale, obsessed with wearing an spf and having a hatred of sunbeds (seriously why?!) I was used to never having a tan. With the thought of streaky legs and unwanted stains on my white bedsheets even fake tan never appealed to me. Honestly, it didn't really bother me that much, I was (and still am) happy being pale. However, when St Tropez launched their new Gradual Tan in Shower and many bloggers labelled it perfect for newbies I thought it was time to delve into the bizarre smelling world of tan.

Top Five: Face Masks

I am having a bit of a mask obsession at the moment, so I thought I would show you my current favourites.

The Origins Clear Improvement and Sanctuary 5 Minute Thermal Detox masks are the best charcoal based face masks I have found for purifying the skin and reducing congestion. The Origins offering is much stronger and I can only use it in my t-zone when things are getting very oily, but it certainly does the job. My skin is left feeling silky smooth and much cleaner. The Sanctuary Mask is more of an experience to use and less of an incredible result. It still leaves the skin cleansed and purified, however it is very gentle and the thermal element makes it perfect for an at-home facial. Both are beautiful masks but if your skin is a little sensitive or combination like mine, the Thermal Detox mask is much kinder on the skin.

The Best Face Sprays

Before I start rambling on about how amazing some of these sprays are I just want to point out that this is probably one of the least important steps of a skincare routine. Most people think they are a bit of a fad and an amazing face spray still isn't anywhere near as important as a gorgeous serum or cleanser.

Splurge or Save: Cream Eyeshadow Sticks

About a month ago I treated myself to the By Terry Ombre Blackstar in Misty Rock (£29). Something I swore I wouldn't do given the extortionate price tag, but you know how it goes in Space NK, you just can't leave empty handed. Before I knew it I was covered in swatches and already paying for this beauty.

The Review: Liz Earle

About a month ago the beautiful Tarnya from Sweet Allure (seriously go and check out her blog) recommended a few Liz Earle products to me and I couldn't help but pick a couple up. They are a brand which has always been on my radar but I've never tried anything before and I am so glad I have now!

Summer Makeup Bag Essentials

I don't usually carry a makeup bag around with me, mainly because I can never be bothered to touch-up. However, in summer there are a few beauty essentials I don't like to be without.

Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer in Vanilla (£22):

This concealer is my all time favourite as it so high coverage and works well with a light coverage foundation or BB cream. During the hotter months makeup doesn't last as long on my skin and I like to always have this to hand if any pesky spots or dark circles are beginning to show through.

The Body Shop Hauling

This week The Body Shop had 40% off everything, free delivery and a free gift, how can anyone resist that! I haven't tried most of this yet, but I thought I would show you the few bits I picked up.