March Favourites 2014! ♥

           Welcome to my March favourites 2014! As showcased in my YouTube video below, I had a decent amount of products to share with you this month, so I thought I would do a mini review here of each, and provide some links for you! 

Watch me showing off my favourites here!

Batiste Dry Shampoo in Light & Blonde: Do I ever love this product! It gives off the perfect hint of colour, which can really help camouflage your roots in my opinion. The best thing about a dry shampoo with a hint of colour, is not only does it make your hair look and feel clean, but it provides that brightening effect, so it really can give the allusion of recently dyed hair. I picked this up at Boots when I was in Ireland!

Marc Anthony Hydrating Coconut Oil & Shea Butter Sulfate Free Conditioner: I have been absolutely thrilled with this conditioner this past month. I plan on purchasing all of the products in this series so I can do a proper review on it, as there is also a shampoo and a treatment. But this is amazing for bleached, colour treated and damaged hair. It immediately makes your hair super soft and manageable, and adds shine. I highly recommend this conditioner!

No7 Pore Refining Serum: I have mentioned this multiple times in my blog already, but I have just recently fallen in love with it. I use this more as a light moisturizer than anything else, as I believe that's what it works the best as. It really makes your skin super soft and silky, and does a really great job of diminishing your pores. I will definitely be repurchasing, as I just ran out! :( As far as I know, you can purchase it at Boots, Shopper's Drug Mart and Target. 

Essie Go Ginza: This has been a huge favourite of mine since the moment I picked it up! What a beautiful colour for spring! When you have it on, it looks more mauve than anything. I thought that I wanted to pick up a true lilac colour until I saw this. The website actually defines this colour as a "soft, cherry blossom pink". Hmmm. Either way, gorgeous colour, and I will continue to be wearing it throughout the spring and summer! It has a fantastic staying power as well, like all Essie polishes! 

Bourjois 1 Seconde Nail Polish in Rainbow Apparition 14: This definitely makes my all time favourite nail polish list. It is the most perfect purple, sparkly nail polish you've ever seen. In the photo above, I am actually wearing it combined with Essie's Go Ginza, which has been the most perfect combination this month. You definitely want to wear a pink or a purple underneath, as the colour looks significantly better when it's not just by itself. If you are a Bourjois fan or just a nail polish fan in general, PICK THIS UP.

Tarte Deluxe Marajuca Lip Glosses: I actually got these in the Tarte of Giving Collector's set, which is my favourite makeup gift I have ever recieved! I'll link my full first impression review of the set here, as it really is fantastic. They do finally make lip glosses in regular sizes now (LipSurgence Lip Gloss), which I am dying to try. I have yet to find a more perfect formula than these lip glosses. They're incredibly moisturizing, they plump up your lips, aren't too sticky and smell like mint. What more could you ask for? 

Lasting Finish Lipstick by Kate in 111 Kiss of Life: This is quite surprisingly my first ever red lipstick, and I think I made an excellant choice! I never really thought I could pull off red lipstick because I'm so pale, but I believe that there is a red lipstick to suit everyone. This colour is not too orangey, and not too deep red, it is just perfect. I also chose this lipstick over others because of the very reasonable price and the consistency. It is moisturizing, and stays put for a decent amount of time. This will not stay tattooed on your lips for the entire day, you will need to touch up in between eating, but that is certainly not a big issue for me. Love it!

Clinique All About Shadow Single in Sunset Glow: This shadow is in their Super Shimmer range, and I am so obsessed with it! This will probably be the only day to day colour I wear on my eyes for a long time, until I find something just as good. It's the perfect bronze colour for my skin tone in my opinion. I've been wearing it every day this month, and I will definitely continue to throughout the rest of the spring and summer! It has a great staying power, and beautiful finish.

Bourjois Little Round Pot Light Eyeshadow in No.03 Brume: I wear this in combination with my Clinique eyeshadow every single day as a highlighter. This is the most amazing highlighter you will ever use. If you like a shimmery, but not too out there brow bone highlight, than this one is for you. I use it in my inner corners as well, and it really helps brighten up my eye area. I am not sure if they have the Light range in Canada yet, as I got this in Ireland, but it is definitely worth ordering. 

Essence Eyebrow Designer Pencil in 04 Blonde: Although it is a pain to have to sharpen anything, this pencil is worth it to me. This is the only pencil I have been able to find in the drug store that is the perfect colour match for my eyebrows. It looks natural, has a great staying power, is under $3.00 and has a little brush at the end. What more could you want? (Besides a retractable pencil of course).There are just two other shades, which are 02 dark brown and 01 black.

PürMinerals 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup with SPF 15 in Light: I have been using this as a setting powder for my foundation this month, and it works so nicely. I am not a huge fan of wearing mineral foundations just on their own, although this would look amazing over top of a tinted moisturizer. It's extremely natural looking, and really gives your skin a flawless finish. It also controls oil really well! I rarely have to touch up during the day at all when I use this. I got this in the 5-Piece Start Now Kit, which I got an amazing deal on. The Chisel Makeup Brush comes with it, which is a really nice brush for applying bronzer and blush as well!

Indigo Large Pouchette in Red: Ahhhh, this is just the cutest little pouch! I received this as a gift from my boyfriend, and I just think it's the most precious thing. It has a top zip closer with a heart charm, as well as a key ring attached on the inside. The quote in the lining reads: "When I saw you I fell in love, and you smiled because you knew". How does that not brighten anyone's day?! It's still available at Indigo, so go buy it now!

Indigo Compact Mirror With Hearts in Light Pink: How adorable is this compact? I use this every day to check my makeup when I'm on the go. It has one mirror which gives you a close up, and the other is just a regular mirror. It's really sturdy and well made, so I'm thinking this is going to last me a long time! This is currently 34% off on the Indigo website at $9.50, so definitely grab it! This is for sure my favourite purse accessory at the moment. 

And that is all! Hope you enjoyed this post, and please check out my video! xx

My Current Products and Treatments for Bleached/Over Processed Hair

This is a subject I happen to know a lot about, as I've had bleached hair since I was 14! At 22, this is the longest my hair has been in a long time, so I believe the products that I've been using are working. I use products that are targeted at moisturizing, preventing/fusing split ends, putting protein/keratin back into your hair and preventing and reversing heat damage. Here are my current go-to products!

Pantene Advanced Keratin Repair Split End Fuser: I did a review on the Pantene Expert Advanced + Keratin Repair line back in December, so if you're interested in reading that, you can find it here. I did repurchase the Advanced Keratin Repair Split End Fuser in the full size, and I absolutely love it. I apply it only to the ends of my hair by scrunching it in if I'm leaving my hair wavy, or combing it in if I'm heat styling it. It's a super thick conditioning treatment, so two small pumps will definitely do you. The Pantene website claims that this product is mean to fuse and prevent split ends, as well as fight frizziness, dullness and dryness, which is definitely does. I would recommend this to anyone who suffers with split ends, especially due to bleaching or heat damage.

Organix Coconut Milk Conditioner & Anti-Breakage Serum: This is a product line that I  recommend over and over again, as it really is one of the best lines I've ever tried for my type of hair. These are the Organix Coconut Milk Conditioner and the Anti-Breakage Serum. Organix has recently come out with a Coconut Water line, which I'm really excited to try. These products provide everything that damaged hair needs, including egg white proteins to strengthen your hair, and coconut oils to balance and moisturize. The Anti-Breakage Serum is specifically meant to promote longer hair, as it reduces the everyday damage that causes your hair to break off. I prefer to use this on dry hair, especially when I leave my hair wavy. It provides noticeable body and shine, and you can tell my hair is instantly moisturized. I've been using these products for years, and I'll definitely continue to. You can find these at the drug store, so they're super affordable as well.

Pantene Silky Moisture Whip: I actually did not expect to like this as much as I do, as it's so rare that I find a product that works really well for me. This product is not like a mousse, as it does not expand in your hand, but literally comes out like whipped cream. It's meant to condition your hair for up to 48 hours, which is a huge plus for me. It also protects against heat damage, so I use this both when I heat style and when I leave it naturally wavy. I most likely would not have thought to purchase this if my Mom hadn't given me a sample, so I'm really loving sample sized products  for this reason. I have recently run out this, so I will be purchasing more soon!

Lush Curly Wurly Shampoo: This is another amazing coconut related product. Curly Wurly is like a shampoo and conditioner in one, as it leaves your hair so nice and moisturized. You can use this if you have damaged straight hair as well, but I find you get the best results with wavy or straight hair. The reason why coconut related products are so amazing for your hair, is that coconut is one of the only oils that can get right inside your hair shaft, while others tend to just sit on top and coat it. Not only does this shampoo contain coconut oil, but it contains creamed coconut, fresh eggs and avocado butter. This product is a little pricy at $25.95, but it's definitely worth it if you can afford to spend a little extra money. Plus this pot lasts you a long time, as you need really little per wash.

Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Deeeeep Conditioner: If you are into hair care, it's unlikely that you haven't heard of the Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Deeeeep Conditioner. I tend to use the one from the Moist line, but there are a few different kinds. This treatment is super cheap. If you're lucky enough to find it in Canada anymore, it's usually under $5.00. I picked up a new bottle when I was in Ireland, as they seem to be everywhere over there. In my opinion, this is one of the best deep conditioners out there, high end or drug store. It really does transform dry, damaged hair within a few minutes. The only thing about this product, is it should not be used more than once a week. If it's used more than that, it builds up on your hair. This can be fixed by using a purifying shampoo, but it's best to avoid.

Coconut Oil: Last but not least, this has been my go-to treatment/hair mask for the past few weeks. Any kind of coconut oil will do, but try to look for both "organic" and either "virgin" or "extra virgin". Extra virgin is best if you don't mind spending a little more! The one I'm using right now is just the Omega Nutrition Organic Coconut Oil. I've been using this sporadically on my hair for a long time now, and have recently picked it up again. Like I said before, coconut oil really is incredible for your hair. I take a few tablespoons and heat it up for about 30 seconds before applying it to my hair. I either leave it on overnight, or just for an hour or two if I'm staying in for the day. I especially like to apply this on heat styled hair. It does not leave your hair super greasy, so just wash it out with shampoo (no need to repeat) and conditioner, and you're done! I have seen growth in both my hair and nails when this is continuously applied. 

Hope this helped! xx

Get Her Look: Ashley Olsen

A quick Get Her Look featuring the lovely Ashley Olsen!

NARS Single Eye Shadow in Lola Lola

Bite Beauty Luminous Crème Lipstick in Retsina

Tarte 

Skinny SmolderEyes Amazonian Clay Waterproof Liner in Onyx

Cover FX 

Bronzer in Sunkissed

xx

February Favourites 2014!

So here they are, my February favourites! I feel like I used quite a few different products this month, but here are the ones that really stood out for February!

Pürminerals Pout Plumping Lip Gloss in Crystal Pink: I actually purchased this because all Pürminerals lip glosses were on sale for 50% off at Shopper's Drug Mart. I think they might be discontinuing this collection. Either way, you can still find it on the Pürminerals website for $16.00. This is a really nice lip gloss. Beautiful colour, and not sticky at all. I did not notice if it made my lips 60% plumper like it claims to, but it makes up for it by being super hydrating.

Bourjois Rouge Edition Lipstick in 02 Beige Touch: It's really going to be hard for any lipstick to beat this one for me. No matter how many I buy, I just keep going back to it. It's such an amazing pinky/beige nude! It's also the most hydrating lipstick I've ever tried. It is freezing in Toronto this winter, and I really think it's thanks to this that my lips haven't gotten cracked or too dry. Love it!

Tarte Deluxe Maracuja Lip Gloss: These actually don't have specific names, which is probably because Tarte doesn't seem to sell lip glosses anymore, except in limited edition sets. I got this one from the Tarte of Giving Collector's Set that came out last Christmas (my review on that here). This lip gloss is a tad sticky, however it is my favourite nude colour out of any of the lip glosses I own. It also contain's Tarte's famous Maracuja Oil, so it's really hydrating as well.

Forever 21 Owl Lip Balm in Mint: I still can't believe how much I like this! I purchased 3 of these owls for $10, and they're some of the best lip balms I've ever owned. You do have to dip your finger into it which is not my favourite, so I only apply it in the morning before I leave the apartment. I don't know what it is in these that works so well, but they're definitely worth trying out.

Indigo Cosmetic Pouch With Hearts: I received this as part of my Valentine's Day gift from my boyfriend, and I'm in love with it! This goes in whatever bag I'm carrying around at any given day, and just holds the few makeup items I bring out with me. It's the perfect size for anything, and still doesn't take up much room in your bag.

Jergens BB Body Perfecting Skin Cream in Light Skin Tones: I actually didn't expect to like this as much as I do either (as you can see, the bottle has been well-loved). I find that it does do everything it says it's going to do: hydrate, illuminate, even, firm and correct. What I'm most concerned about right now is hydration, and it does an amazing job at keeping your skin super soft. When I first put it on, I wasn't sure if it was going to do anything for my skin, as it's not very thick, but it works just as well if not better than thicker creams. It goes on as a light flesh colour, and becomes sheer when you smooth it out. I'll definitely be using this all through the spring and summer months as well, which will probably help me notice the other benefits even more.

Shiseido Perfect Foundation Brush: This may be my absolute favourite this month. This is SUCH A GOOD FOUNDATION BRUSH. It is so worth investing in a good, flat-top foundation brush. It took me a couple tries to learn how to use it properly, but I don't think I'll go back to anything else after using this brush. I have noticed no fall out whatsoever, even while washing it. This brush is also an Allure Best of Beauty award winner of 2013!

Paul Mitchell Round Trip Liquid Curl Definer: I've actually had this for quite a long time, and never really gave it a chance until recently. My hair is actually more wavy than it has been for quite some time, so that's likely why it works so well for me now. This really conditions your waves/curls without weighing them down. This doesn't leave your hair crunchy at all, if you're into soft, flexible waves like I am.

Batiste Dry Shampoo in Light & Blonde: This dry shampoo has been saving me lately, for more reasons than one! I have tried a variety of different dry shampoos, and Batiste is definitely the best for making your hair look clean and refreshed. But what I especially love about this one, is the hint of colour is actually helping me hide my roots, and making my hair look brighter! I purchased this can in Ireland, but I'm sure you can get the Light & Blonde in Canada too. A must for those with blonde hair. They also come in medium and dark!

Pürminerals Correcting Primer: First, let me just say, I really do not like the way this primer feels when you apply it to your face. I'm not a fan of the texture at all, I can't even describe it, but it's not anywhere near as silky as you'd like a primer to feel. Having said that, everything else about it is really nice! I've basically been mixing it with my foundation, which has given me much more of a natural finish. My skin loves it as well, as it really gives you a smooth, even base to work with. I'm not sure if they sell this primer on it's own, but it came in the Pürminerals 5-Piece-Beauty-To-Go Collection!

L'Oreal Paris Sublime Cleansers Gentle Micellar Solution: I have finally found my affordable dupe for Bioderma, my Vichy thermal cleansing water, etc! I truly find that this works just as well as any high end cleansing water/solution anywhere. It's extremely gentle, doesn't sting my eyes or upset my skin, and makes my skin so soft. This cleanser removes your makeup flawlessly, especially any kind of eye makeup. So glad to have finally found this!

Clinique All About Shadow Single in Sunset Glow: Last but not least, the eye shadow that I've been wearing everyday, all month long. This particular one is in the super shimmer collection. Unfortunately, the pictures above do not do it justice at all, as it really does look amazing when the sunlight hits it. This colour has hints of bronze, gold and pink in it. It's super easy to blend and very pigmented. Definitely looking forward to trying more Clinique eye shadows, as somehow this was my first one!

Goodnight! xx

Sephora Spring Wishlist 2014

               There has recently been a huge amount of new beauty launches for the spring, and they are beautiful. Spring is probably my favourite season for makeup launches, as the colours are bright, beautiful, and really signify the changeover from winter to spring to summer. Going through the Sephora website, I was pretty much drooling over the new arrivals. Any girl who really loves makeup knows what I mean! Here are some of my top picks for my spring wishlist of 2014!

Clinique Cheek Pop in Peach Pop, $24

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Dim Infusion-Subdued Coral, $41

 

Bite Beauty Matte Crème Lip Crayon in Kumquat, $28

NARS Satin Lip Pencil in Floralies, $30

Yves Saint Laurent Gloss Volupté in 20 Nude Carat, $35

Sephora Collection Rouge Infusion Lip Ink in No. 3 Pink Essence, $17

      

Formula X The Cut- Spring 2014 in A Little Sexy, $13

Nails Inc. Gel Effect Polish in Mayfair Lane, $17

NARS Duo Eyeshadow in Kauai, $39

Shiseido Shimmering Cream Eye Colour in Pale Shell, $32

I'll be back with my February favourites soon!! xx