NIVEA: My Go-To Skin Care Brand

I think every girl has that brand which she can trust her skin with at times when she does not have time to go through all the options she has. NIVEA has always been my Go-To brand, a brand I could trust with everything. From lip care to wiping off my make up, NIVEA hasn't disappointed me. This blog post will comprise of quick and short reviews of a few of my all-time favorite products. Carry on reading if it floats your boat.

(Left to Right)

1) NIVEA Express Hydration Primer
If you have been following up my blog for a while, you will realize that I have given a detailed review on it previously. If you haven't read it, Click here, Just like before, totally satisfied. Keeps my skin hydrated and helps my make up stay put for longer without making my skin look oily. Perfect for those who don't like to use tinted primers (like me).

2) NIVEA Firming Body Lotion
A bit of a down since I am half way through the bottle and my skin isn't any firmer than it was 2 weeks ago. However, the glycerin in the formula has helped my skin maintain its hydration level (which is not easy!). Its light in texture therefore is absorbed quite quickly by my skin and doesn't leave it sticky. And lets not forget how important it is to have a lotion that has faint fragrance which helps you stay fresh and happy.

3) NIVEA Rich Moisturizing Day Cream
One of the most important factors while choosing a day cream is for it to not only be fast-absorbing but also intensely moisturizing. Both box checked! It absorbs very quickly, therefore in the morning I don't have to waste time massaging it in my skin (that's my night cream's job). It also leaves my skin hydrated and soft, which is a result of the Almond Oil in the formula.
The one that I am currently using is for dry and sensitive skin and also has an SPF 15. With my skin tone, that's the average amount of SPF I need and therefore is perfect for those sunny days!

4) NIVEA Gentle Facial Cleansing Wipes
It is one of those things that we all need on our dressing tables and our hand bags. Handy with make-up and all sorts. With most wipes there comes a sort of dryness and uneasiness on your skin after removing makeup. However, with NIVEA Gentle Facial Cleansing Wipes I have a balanced skin even after removing my make-up. They are very lightly scented and therefore, doesn't damage your skin.

5) NIVEA Refreshing Facial Wash Gel
This is probably my 3rd tube in a row; and I never use a product again in a row. This product keeps my skin clean without drying it out. I have noticed a better balance of oil in my skin, which is quite important for a healthier skin. My naked face has gotten rid of acne and spots and is moving towards no marks and scars. I am sure that there are other things that I use playing a part, but the introduction of this particular face wash to my skin care regime has definitely helped me have a better and healthier looking skin.

6) NIVEA pure & natural Cleansing Toner
This is a comparatively new product to my list. I have only been using it for about 3 weeks on a daily basis.The Argon Oil and Aloe Vera definitely has worked hand in hand with the facial wash to help cleanse and maintain my skin balance. I feel a healthy glow emerging on my skin, which definitely makes me want to flaunt my naked facial skin even more.

A drug store, affordable and one of the oldest skin care brands NIVEA definitely works for me in ways that I have not yet experienced with any other brand. This was an honest opinion on a few of their products that i have personally used. Do let me know what you think, and if there is any particular brand that catches your attention.

That is it for this week's blog post.

Have an amazing week ahead :)

Toodles

xXx

Coming up Next Week: Going Back to School

Next Review on: (Oppss Not yet decided ;) Check back next week to have a look!)

5 Things To-Do With No Internet

I was caught in one of the most unfortunate situations of this century. My house internet was disconnected due to some ’essential maintenance’ for a week! On top of that, I had nothing fun planned for those seven days. So I had to find something not only fun, but also time consuming to fill up my time. Since ‘No-internet’ equals’ modern day patience test, I wouldn't want you to go through it without any help! Here are the five things that kept me happy. :) 

1)      Dig out DVDs

I did a major dig-up and got out old Disney and classic movies, wedding and birthday recordings, high school tapes and even some old school tom and jerry.  Let me just say that this proved to be my major source of entertainment since TVD and The Originals are no longer on TV! Dig up or go to an old DVD store and get whatever floats your boat.

2)      Blank or Blank

Bake or Paint, Skate or Sketch, Clean or Sleep; again whichever pair floats your boat. I did do a lot of baking and painting (expect some recipes ;) ). But what do you like doing is what should some up your pair. After a week of baking and painting I feel like doing more of it, so it might even inspire you to do more of something you like.

3)      Get cleaning!

You know that mess under your bed, the mess in your closet, and the handbag you wanted to clean up; you have the time now. I successfully gave my closet a new look!

4)      Go out and explore

There is always a cool alley that we wish we could stop by and explore, or the little park by your friend’s house, and there is always a new store open in your town. Go out and have a look. This is time when you can explore and see what’s new out there. May be dust up your camera and take a few pictures around. It’s always fun!

5)      Workout

You have been planning to start working out more often. May be now is the perfect time to actually START. You don’t have to do much; maybe a run in your local park or half an hour of yoga of meditation; again, whatever floats your boat.

Comment down below if you have ever faced a problem similar to mine; and if so, what did you do to fill the time gap.

That is it for this week's blog post.

Have an amazing week ahead :)

Toodles

xXx

Coming up Next Week: My Go-To Skin Care Brand

Next Review on: (Oppss Not yet decided ;) Check back next week to have a look!)

Coconut Cake

Who doesn't like a little baking time?

In fact I consider it to be a part of my little me time.

This particular recipe is a family favorite. It is very difficult to impress my Dad when it comes to cakes, and amazingly this recipe always does the trick. The good thing thing about this cake is that it can be made as a part of your evening tea, a birthday celebration or even as the main desert  for a girls night in!

Just look at how soft, moist and delicious it looks! Waiting to be eaten.

So without further delay, I am going to jump in and explain how it is made.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 - 40 minutes

Serves: 6 - 8 people

Ingredients:

The Cake-

Plain flour - 200 g

Salt - 1/2 tspn

Baking powder - 2 tspns

Butter - 75 g

Sugar - 75 g

Desiccated coconut - 50 g

Grated lime zest - 1/2 tspn

Egg - 1 medium

Milk - 125 ml

Vanilla extract - 1 tspn

Coconut Cream Cheese Icing - (Optional)

Softened cream cheese - 200 g

Softened unsalted butter - 100 g

Icing sugar - 100 to 500 g

Double cream - 2 to 8 tbspns

Vanilla extract - 1 tspn

Desiccated Coconut - 100 g (portioned in two 50 g sections)

Have some apricot jam, sliced apricots and strawberries on hand.

Do not, under any circumstance be overwhelmed by the amount of things you need. The procedure could not be any easier!

Procedure:

1) Pre-heat you oven to 180C or gas 4.

2) In a large mixing bowl sift the flour and add the sugar, coconut, lime zest,  salt and baking powder. Mix it well.

3) Add the butter and using your fingers combine all the ingredients till it resembles bread crumbs and make a well in the middle; like in the image.

4) In another mixing bowl break the eggs and add the milk and vanilla essence. 

5) Beat till they are fluffy.

6) Add the egg mixture in the bread crumb well and mix well till all the ingredients have combined. You will see an uneven batter. Perfect!

7) Pour all the contents in a baking tin that has already been buttered and floured well.

8) And we are done! Poke a knife in the center and if it comes out clean, you know your cake is ready to serve and eat. (Unless you need to get the icing on of course!) Leave it to cool on a cooling rack. 

You can very well stop here and just add some whipped cream on top and/or some apricot jam between 2 layers (if you have two layers). If you want to make it even more special, you can continue reading.

9) Have all your ingredients ready for the Coconut Creme Cheese Icing.

10) I find it easy to add all the ingredients (including ONLY 50 g icing sugar and 2 tbspn cream) and beat them together.

11) Once the ingredients are well combines add more icing sugar if you want it to be thicker or more double cream to make it thinner.

12) Make sure to mix it well using whatever method suits you till the batter is left with no knots.

13) Spread a generous amount and leave the cake in the fridge for an hour and enjoy it chilled!

That is it for this week's blog post.

Have an amazing week ahead :)

Toodles

xXx

Coming up Next week: Planning Birthdays
Next Review on: (Oppss Not yet decided ;) Check back next week to have a look!)

Review: Cappella's by Peter Hollens - I See Fire

If you have been following my blog for a little while you will understand that I love discovering music by people who put their heart and soul into the making of that masterpiece. I am a true Pitch Perfect fan. And I therefore, share appreciation and love for a good quality Cappella!

Peter Hollens began his journey in the realm of YouTube with a Cappella Cover of  'What's my name and Only Girl' by Rihanna, which was exceptionally well thought of considering his first ever Cappella that can be found!

But here I want to talk about a specific Cappella by Peter Hollens, I See Fire by Ed Sheeran. Give it a ear before you read my thoughts.

PS: I was blown away!

With almost 3 million views, it is a piece of music that has reminded me of the potential a single man can have. Lets take a moment to appreciate the amount of work and planning it required considering that every layer of audio was self recorded and created. Applause!

Considerate Harmonic and Dulcet describes the piece of music we have just heard.

Its the type I would dedicate my life to.

I would highly recommend also giving a go to his covers of Skyrim Theme, Somebody that I used to know and his own Disney Medley.

That is it for this week's blog post.

Have an amazing week ahead :)

Toodles

xXx

Coming up Next week: A Little Me-Time

Next Review on: (Oppss Not yet decided ;) Check back next week to have a look!)

5 Ways to Organise your Life

Can't find time?
Too busy of a schedule?
A messy room?
No 'Me-Time'?
Missing appointments?
Thinking of more to add to this list?

You are in need to organise you life.
Chop, Chop, Let's get Started!

1) Target the Issue

Before you do anything, you have to evaluate the reason to your 'un-organised' life. Once that is done. organising will become so much easier.
Its just like knowing that you have a bacterial infection and not a viral infection; helps have the right medication.

2) Set Daily Targets

On the inside of my cupboard I have a note pad. Soon after my breakfast I put down the things that I need to do before I go back to bed - Big and Small.
- Clean my make-up brushes
- Pick up the book from library
- Bake the cupcakes
- Clean my skates

Don't like the inside of your cupboard?
Well you have got your phone!

3) Pick it 'n' Drop it

Put your hair brush in its stand after your hairs are under control.
Put that paper back into the wallet it came from.
Drop that change in your wallet or piggy bank; Not your table!

In a nut shell.
Put it back where you got it from.
How is your room going to get messy now?
(Unless you have the 'sibling' problem - Sympathy)
Keep it Simple! Don't overwhelm yourself.

4)  Early to Bed, Early to Rise

Yes I am aware that you wake up at 7 for work or school (or whatever social commitment it is.) But ask this to your self, 'Can I use another half an hour to have an easy start?'
Wouldn't it be much better to not gobble down your breakfast?
Not dress in a rush?
Or even run behind the bus?

Having a good start to the day impacts on how you perform all day long. Make it easier for yourself and go to bed half an hour early today to wake up half an hour early tomorrow morning.

5) Breath In, Breath Out

Remember that 'To-Do' List-ish thing I referred to before?
Yeah, add 'Me-Time' to it EVERYDAY.
10 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, an hour.
Doesn't matter!
We need all need a little time to Breath in and Breath out and unwind ourselves to help clear our mind, lower procrastination and improve the quality of our work.

Click here to be re-directed to a post I did that has a section dedicated to Me-Time.
(PS Check the 'Get Cosy in the Bus' section -- Your Welcome!)

This helps you concentrate on the tasks on hand and henceforth, organise your life a little better.

That is it for this week's blog post.

Have an amazing week ahead :)

Toodles

xXx

Coming up Next week: A Little Me-Time

Next Review on: Music by Tiffany Alvord

Hunger-Game Much?

The Voice

U.K.?

U.S.?

Canada?

Australia?

Russia?

Which version of The Voice clicked in your mind first?

It doesn't matter!

Because all of them play along the same game of chess

(With 4 players, complicated? Yes!).

 And I can not stop comparing it with the famous Hunger Games

(With 12 players! God have mercy).

Beat each other up till you win, and may be make a few 'friends'.

Every Saturday when I watch Marvin Humes and Emma Willis hosting The Voice UK, it reminds me of Caesar Flickerman hosting the interviews linked with The Hunger Games.

Why?

Well Emma's high quiff and Marvin's amazing collection of three piece suit does the job! I can't help morphing the two to see the resemblance. 

Beautiful?

Yes!

And can we please start with the main show?

Yeah, and I do mean when people start beating ---- Ohh I mean singing their heads off and cry.

Lets start with The Blind Auditions.

I can't see who is singing. But the odds are in their favour and I am going to turn. Or not?

I am hinting towards the Reaping.

(I am Effie and I am going to pick a name without seeing who it is.)

Unfortunately, a tribute belongs to only one district, but here the singer can choose their 'District'. 

So am I going to die first because I belong to District 11?

Or am I going to live a little longer and belong to District 1? 

Or may be choose District 12 and win?  

Decisions, Decisions.

Hang on!

Did you hear that?

Tick

Tock

Tick

Tock

BHOOOMM!

Here I am at The Cornucopia.

Battles-much?

I will kill you.

Yes you are from my district.

But,

I am going to kill you.

I will send you home.

Yes you are from my team.

But,

I am going to send you home.

Hang on! You are my friend?

I will kill you later.

(Or just eat the berries)

This was The Battles summarised for you.

Enjoy!

Coming up Next.

KNOCKOUTS!

Lets run into the woods and shoot from far off!

Or just eat something wrong.

(Mess up a note)

Fun.

My coach is going to decide if I live or no. The sponsors can join the show as well. Send me a parachute 'cause I am burning.

Pick me, Pick me!

This is the time when a coach who said they would see the singers till the end, send them home 'early' as someone 'better' has cropped up.

At this point I begin to think, who is really winning?
The players?
OR,
The coaches?


And can we finally talk about the actual capitol audience? I mean it is their 'entertainment' at the end of the day.
The Live Shows is when the audience comes into play as we all know.
But do the capitol audience play in the hunger games?

If you though 'No' well then you are wrong.

Why else do you think Katnis and Peeta had to 'love' each other?
You like Katnis?
We send her a parachute.
Simple.

Oh and you like Peeta as well?
We will patch them up and send them both parachutes.

Parachutes = Votes

I am a little dramatic.
If you couldn't sense the pure fun in the blog post and instead have taken this too seriously, well then hun, straighten up and Smile!
I am a big fan of both The Hunger Games and The Voice UK and couldn't stop seeing the similarities.
A little sadist of me to enjoy people disappearing.

 That is it for this week's blog post.

Have an amazing week ahead :)

Toodles

xXx

Coming up Next week: 5-Ways to organise your life

Next Review on: Music by Tiffany Alvord

Review: Teardrop by Lauren Kate

A little while ago I tweeted about how much I actually loved reading Teardrop by Lauren Kate. Since then, I have been planning to review it. And why not?

The author has used a good mix of first person narration from the Euraks's perspective (The lead character) and third person narration from the author's perspective. This gives the reader a peak into the events from 2 different perspectives, or like I would say, peek from two doors. But the book starts of with a perspective of another character (who I am not going to reveal), which does bring a very mysterious touch right at the onset of the story.

The plot is twisted at points, and does not fail to surprise the readers at some points. However, it still does have a few expected turn of events, which is required to keep the reader on ground. Books filled with turns and twists become too much to handle at times. But Teardrop does justice to both sides.

Personally, it is a very good read. Very well written, has a mysterious and well twisted plot. It has made its way to my all time favorites list.
And the Second book is on its way!
Excited :D

That is it for this week's review.

Have an amazing week ahead :)

Toodles

xXx

Coming up, Next week: Hunger-game much?

Next Review on: Music by Tiffany Alvord

Looking Beyond

Wake up

Breakfast

School

Lessons

Practical

Lunch

Lessons

Practical

Homework

Dinner

Sleep

Sounds Familiar?

Oh and I forgot one more thing.

EXAMS

More or less a Nightmare?

Yeah I feel for you.

Having done 7 years of primary school, 4 years of secondary school and 2 years of college (or high school for you Americans) the generation today gives at-least 800 exams during the two most important stages of their lives - i.e. childhood and teen-hood. 

Quite a lot, isn't it?

No time for,

Going out

Movies

Trips

Adventures

Even reading a book!

Exams and exam related stress does take up a lot of time and energy of today's generation, leaving them with less to spend on there self-growth.

Keep reading, because for you 'Poor, Unfortunate Souls' (In Ursula's Voice) I am going to help you get out of that devious cycle. Hurrah! Below are a few tips that helped me get a little 'Me Time' everyday and also allowed me to go out every weekend during my schooling days.

1) Kicking Away Your Homework

Ohh No No Don't Please Kick Those Books Away..!!

'Kicking away your homework' doesn't mean ditching it and not doing it at all. But to be true to ourselves, we have cultivated a very bad habit of 'doing our homework tomorrow'. Now imagine coming home on Tuesday with 2 pieces of homework and completing them that evening. And doing so for the whole week.

What good has it done? Saturday morning when you wake up, you will find that you have no homework to do for the weekend! Hurrahh!!

Now you don't have to rush with 15 pieces of homework on Sunday night which are due the next morning.

Don't thank me just yet.

2) Get Cosy In the Bus

You can probably ditch the cushions if you really are travelling back and forth school in bus. But regardless of your means of transport, the daily commuting can be transferred to a little 'Me Time'.

This is what I do-

Read a book, with a cup of hot chocolate and headphones playing my favourite tunes.

Here is what you can do-

Play games on your gadget,

Ride a bike to school/college,

Read the latest edition of Teen Vogue, Seventeen or whichever magazine you prefer,

Or whatever really floats your boat!

Oh and don't forget the headphones.

Grab a cup of coffee or cone of Cornetto.

Find a reason to enjoy those 15 minutes.

3) Don't Pile It Up!

Oh no I don't mean the laundry. That's between you and your Mum ;)

You know you have an exam next Wednesday.

You know there are two units to revise.

And you also know that your teacher is not going to give you 'extra time'.

So why are you procrastinating?

Divide the work you are going to do each day leading up to the 'Big day'. Ideally an hour everyday is enough. By the end you will have everything done, instead of pilling and cramming everything for Tuesday night.

4) A Friend In Need, Is A Friend Indeed

Friend: 'Hey! Did you do your Maths homework?'

Me: 'What homework?'

Yeah we all probably know someone who always forgets their homework. And if you don't, then it probably is you!

Tell your best friend to give you a 'reminder' for the home works due in the next day if you are the forgetting kind. Or even better, keep a small diary or use your phone. And don't tell me you don't have one! It is the 21st centaury!

There are so many more little things you can do to make your school life better, after all these are your Golden years. Since I have left out a dozen, I might do a Part 2, but till then leave a few in the comments! Spread the word.

That is it for this week's blog post.

Have an amazing week ahead :)

Toodles

xXx

Coming up Next week: Hunger-game much?

Next Review on: Teardrop by Lauren Kate

Review: NIVEA Express Hydration Primer

I recently went to a huge Superdrug shopping spree recently and found NIVEA Express Hydration Primer in the new arrivals section. I had to give it a try because of the promises it claimed! 

Below you will find a breakdown of all the things the product promises and my experience.

Enjoy!

"Provides an even and smooth base for effective make-up application and helps your make-up stay put"

There is no doubt in the fact that primers create an even and smooth base for make up application. But only some actually help stay put make-up for longer. To find this out I did the same make up on 2 consecutive days for 8 hours. The only difference was that I used NIVEA Express Hydration Primer only on the second day.

 And does it work? YES.

Not only that, but it also makes your face have a fresh glow all day long, which I find a bonus! It might just be something that I observe. Let me know if you find the same thing

"Absorbs instantly thanks to its light texture"

It does absorb very quick. Not even a minute of massage is required. It is good for when you are in a hurry to get your make-up done. I would suggest to use a night time rich-in-moisture cream to make sure you skin hydrated intensively. 

"Uses an effective hydrator for long lasting moisturisation and soft skin feeling" 

Almond Oil and Calendula Extracts are both very good in terms of keeping your skin hydrated and moisturized. You are in luck because, both these ingredients are present in NIVEA Express Hydration Primer. The product leaves your skin feeling hydrates, smooth and even. 

I am looking forward to see more reviews of the product and to also hear what you think about it down in the comments.

That is it for this week's review.

Have an amazing week ahead :)

Toodles

xXx

Coming up, Next week: Looking Beyond

Next Review on: Teardrop by Lauren Kate

Review: 'Say Something' Cover by BoyEpicMusic

A few singers have the extraordinary ability to not only touch your hearts but also your soul

If you have been reading my blogs for a while, you will know that every now and then I review a cover song by an upcoming coming artist. This time my target is, Boy Epic. Why am I not mentioning his name, u ask? He has never mentioned it. A mysterious chap he is! 

Before u see what I have to say about the cover he has made, I would suggest you listening to it first.

Melodic, Poignant and Vibrant.

These are the three words that describe exactly how I feel.

The vocals and instruments are combined together in a way to produce beauty of form, harmony, and expression of emotion.

Unlike my previous reviews, I am going to keep this review very short. I would recommend listening to the cover by him for Unconditionally by Katy Perry and We Can't Stop by Miley Cyrus. 

He wont disappoint you.

That is it for this week's review.

Have an amazing week ahead :)

Toodles

xXx

Coming up, Next week: Top 8-Travel Essentials

Next Review on: NIVEA Express Hydration Primer

Potato Bake

I always like to spice up everything! So I also spice up whatever I am cooking or baking. This potato bake is no exception.

Easy,

Quick,

And mouth flatteringly delicious!

Don't get scared by the list of ingredients, because all of this is in your fridge!

Perfect when you want to treat yourself, have friends down or want impress your parents ;)

Lets get started!

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Serves: 5 people

Ingredients:

The Bake-
Potatoes - 3/4 large finely chopped (1-2 mm thick)
Onions - 1 medium
Carrots - 1/2 finely sliced
Pepper - 1 whole OR coloured equivalent mixed
Chicken OR Bacon - 100 g fried

The Sauce-
Butter - 100g knob
Milk- Half a cup
Eggs - 2
Garlic Powder - As required (1 teaspoon personally)
Cream cheese- 1 - 1.5 cup

And Finally,
Cheese, Salt and Pepper while layering.

Procedure:

1) Start of by adding the chopped potatoes to a pot of boiling oven for 10 minutes and preheating the oven at 180C (You only want to cook the potatoes partially).

2) Spray a frying pan with oil and get your Chicken or Bacon frying! (Make sure they are not very large chunks. You would want them to be small)

3) Get started with your sauce while the frying and boiling continues. Melt the butter and transfer it into a bowl. Add the milk, cream cheese, eggs and beat. At the end at the garlic powder and beat the mixture till all the ingredients are blended.

4) Prep your veggies. Don't forget to get the potatoes and chicken/bacon out of the heat!

5) All your ingredients should now be ready and ready for layering. Spray your baking tin with a little oil and follow the following sequence while layering.
Potato
Onions
Chicken/Bacon
Pepper
Carrots
Sauce
Salt and Pepper
Cheese
REPEAT till you run out!

6) Let it bake and check the potatoes if they have cooked after 20 minutes (Poke a fork and check if it was easy to penetrate). It can take up to an hour depending on how long you let the potatoes boil and how thick (or thin) they were sliced.

Tips:
1) Make sure none of the egg white strands are left lingering around. BEAT it well!

That is it for this week's mid-week blog post.

Have an amazing week ahead :)

Toodles

xXx

Coming up Next week: Top 8-Travel Essentials
Next Review on: Say Something Cover by Boye PicMusic

Makeup Starters Guide: Part 2

This is a series that I have recently started to fulfill the need of women who have either just started venturing into the world of makeup or are planning to do so. If you haven't checked the first part then Click Here to be redirected to it in another window. Then come back and have a look here!

In the previous post I discussed the right tools and ways to prep your skin. In this post I will step into the basic makeup that a women will need for a basic simple look.

All the products that I recommend will not only favor your skin but also your pocket. 

Grab a cup of Hot chocolate because this will be Long!

SKIN

In a very basic makeup routine there are only 3 layers of products that are necessary (In some just 2, depending on your needs).

1) Foundation:

A foundation acts like a layer on a canvas that evens out the surface. The surface of the skin gets evened out, hiding majority of the nasty marks, eye bags and bumps. A very little amount is pumped on the back of your hand and with the help of a foundation brush is blended on your facial skin. I usually opt for foundation that last longer and have medium coverage. This helps me go through college in the morning, work in the afternoon and a little shopping trip during the evening!

A few of my recommendations:

- Rimmel Lasting Finish 25 hour Foundation ( £7.99 )

- Max Factor Face Finity All Day Flawless 3-in-1 Foundation ( £11.99 ) - This is going to be my next purchase!

- L'Oréal Paris True Match Foundation ( £9.99 ) - This is my current favourite

2) Concealer:

This is what I like to call as the 'Magic-Wand'. They hide all scars, blemishes, eye bags and hyper-pigmented areas of the skin. Absolute miracle. How would I last without it? This is only applied in areas that require a little 'fixing'. It is then blended on only that area using a concealer brush. This is a step that you ca skip if your skin looks good enough after the foundation. Some women use it before applying foundation and some after. I can go with any!

A few of my recommendation:

- Collection 2000 Lasting Perfection Concealer ( £4.19 ) - Easily addict-able!

- Rimmel Wake Me Up Concealer ( £5.49 )

- L'Oreal True Match Concealer ( £6.99 )

3) Face Powder:

This acts like a protection layer. It helps the skin make up to settle and makes it last longer. It is very important therefore to pick one that not only reflects your skin tone but also does its work. There are a few transparent ones available in your drugstore which, according to me, are much better. You simple dab some on your face using a nice big powder brush.

A few of my recommendation:

- Rimmel Clear Complexion Transparent Powder ( £3.99 )

- Collection Lasting Perfection Ultimate Wear Powder ( £4.19 )

- No7 Perfect Light Loose Powder ( £10.50 )

EYES

After my skin I always go to my eyes. There are so many aspects to making your eye look prettier that its not easy for a beginner to perfect the look. And so I will be listing things that can not only be easily used by a beginner but also help to build skills.

4) Neutral Eye shadow Pallet:

The reason I add the word 'neutral' is because the looks created by a neutral pallet can range from simple everyday to red-carpet glamorous. Perfect or beginners to create simple, quick and easy looks, And it also helps to improve you skills as creating glamorous looks from it is possible as well. Also, you can use the colours in it to do your eyebrows.

A few of my recommendations:

- Sleek i-Divine Eyeshadow Palette- Au Naturel ( £7.99 )

- Maybelline Big Eyes Eyeshadow ( £6.99 ) 

5) Eyeliner:

This is what gives your eye definition. You can either use a water liner or kohl liner. For beginners I would suggest using a kohl liner as it is much easier to apply, use and shape. Once you have hold of a kohl liner, you are ready to use a water liner.

A few of my recommendation: 

- Max Factor Excess Longwear Eyeliners ( £6.99 ) 

- Collection 2000 Intense Colour Supersoft Kohl Pencils ( £1.99 )

6) Mascara:

This is my favorite part! Because I naturally have long lashes, it is so much fun to try different mascaras that bring different finish effects to my whole eye look. This is what brings the entire eye make up together. There are so many brands and so many types that do different things to your eye lashes. Some increase the volume, make them longer or curl them.

A few of my recommendation:

- Maybelline Big Eyes Mascara ( £8.99 )

- L'Oreal Volume Million Lashes Excess Mascara ( £10.99 )

- Rimmel Scandal'Eyes Show Off Mascara ( £6.99 ) 

LIPS

Lets finish of our look with a pop of colour and gloss on our lips! Fun isn't it?

1) Lip Balm:

It is important to moisturize your lips before colouring them. It helps to create smoother and fuller looking lips. 

A few of my recommendations:

- Burt's Bees Tinted Lip Balm ( £5.99 )

- Soap & Glory™ A Great Kisser™ Lip Balm ( £5.00 )

2) Lipstick:

You need colour? You need a lipstick.

A few of my recommendations:

- Rimmel Kate Matte Lipstick ( £5.49 )

- Bourjois Rouge Edition Lipstick ( £7.99 )

3) Lip Gloss:

You will need a little edge' a little shimmer. Add a little gloss!

- Tanya Burr Lip Gloss ( £6.99 )

- Revlon Colourburst ( £7.99 )

All the products that I have mentioned are either tested by me or have been recommended for use by a friend. I do hope that this does prove to be of some use. Keep an eye out for the third part by either following me on Twitter or BlogLovin'. 

Ohh and blend in your makeup!

That is it for this week's blog post.

Have an amazing week ahead :)

Toodles

xXx

Coming up Next week: Top 8-Travel Essentials

Next Review on: Say Something Cover by Boye PicMusic

Review: That Awkward Moment

If you haven't watched this movie yet, then keep reading because i am going to give you some pretty good reasons.

If you are a lady/girl/woman then the first reason is Zac Effron. (Keep reading if you need another reason)

If you are a gentleman/boy then you first reason is Imogen Poots!

Before reading my review you might want to Click Here to have a general idea about the plot. (Spoiler Alert!) 

The movie is a good combination of comedy, modern day drama and young adults life dilemma. Suited for a group of friends looking for something good to laugh at and also when you feel like having a good time by yourself. (I watched this movie alone on a Monday at the cinema. So yah, quite good for a Monday morning treat!) 

The movie shows exactly how close guy friends can get but how difficult it gets for them to commit to a serious relation. Expect a few adrenaline surges every now and then.

Grab your tickets and popcorn bag because you are in for a treat.

If you have watched the movie already, then do let me know what you think. And if you haven't, then I think I have given you a reason to.

 That is it for this week's review.

Have an amazing week ahead :)

Toodles

xXx

Coming up, Next week: Makeup Starters Guide: Part 2

Next Review on: Teardrop by Lauren Kate

Review: Veet Hair Minimising Body Lotion

I started to fall behind with my beauty product reviews, so here is one! I have been using the Veet Hair Minimising Body Lotion for about 10 months and I think that this is a good time to do a review. There is a lot that I want to share about this product, so this review will be written in a different format than the usual.

Feel free to leave your own experiences or questions relating to the product.
Enjoy!

Who can use it?

Anyone trying to reduce the amount of hair on their body.

How can you use it?

After waxing, shaving or removing your hairs by any method, use the product as a body lotion on a daily basis. 

(Do NOT use it for 24 hours after waxing. May cause irritation; especially in sensitive areas)

How often can you use it?

Once a day.

How can you test its effectiveness?

Every individual has a different natural time span between removing their hairs and the growing back. It depends on the method of hair removal and also on the person's genome.

The best way to test the effectiveness is to compare the time span before using the lotion and after using the lotion.

How long do you have to use it?

Like I said before, the effect varied from person to person. the product only REDUCES the hair growth and time span. It does not eliminate the hairs completely. 

Keep reading for my experience.

Are their any side effects?

No side effects were found in the 10 months that I have used it.

Where can you buy it from?

I struggled to find it from a supermarket. But it is available in large drugstores like Boots, Super drug etc.

 My personal experience

White in colour, beautiful scent and a nice consistency. The product helped me to increase the hair growth time span from 2 weeks to 4 weeks. Previously, after waxing my hairs would start appearing again after 2 weeks, which is very annoying! But the moisturiser has actually delayed the process to 4 weeks for me. 
Further more, I have noticed a reduction in the hair coverage over my limbs. I cannot be sure if this is due to the body lotion, because waxing can also be the reason behind it.
Nevertheless, I am happy with the results!

That is it for this week's review.

Have an amazing week ahead :)

Toodles

xXx

Coming up, Next week: 10 Ways to Organise your life

Next Review on: That Awkward Moment

Top 8 - Travel Essentials

For the first time I actually lost count of the days. Wednesday already? 

Ohh well so as promised I have come up with a list of 8 travel essentials. Many of us must have had 'Travelling more' as one of their targets/goals/resolutions (wateva!) this year! So this should help hopefully.  But before I start let me confess something. 

While I was planning this post, I realised that the essentials depend on your age, gender, location of travel, duration of stay and purpose of stay. So I have tried and made this post as general as possible. Also, all these essentials are a part of your hand bag (so to say) and not your main luggage. I am planning to do one for that. But lets get started!

1) Phone Charger

Do I even have to tell why? But the reason I have added it here is because many people add this 'essential' in their luggage instead of their hand bag. Always have your phone charger handy. You never know when your phone gets the need to fill its tummy again. After all, it will be the main source of entertainment during our little journey. 

2) Weather Proof & Strong Bag

Be very careful with what your hand bag will be. If it is a long journey (probably including a plane) then don't include you one strap 'Favorite' bag. Who are you kidding? You need a two strap, water proof bag that you are sure wont come apart. I would also say, something with a lot of pockets. Makes it easier to find things. 

3) Wet Wipes

Praise the lord for this mighty invention! Wiping off your sweaty face, cleaning a spill, taking your make up off (not for you boys!) and so much more. The list is endless. You wont know when you will need this until you are in the situation. But trust me, you need them. Even an air hostess makes you take a pack!

4) Loyalty Cards and Vouchers

Take 'em all. These two things tend to be very useful when you are travelling from one city to another. The reason behind this is quite simple. Lets be real, you are going to forget a lot of things home and you are going to buy a lot of things once you reach your destination. Instead of spending money on covering up your carelessness, lets use it for what you really came for. Your vouchers and loyalty card will help you get through the rest. 

5) Drugs

Hold you horses!! 

No please no weed or heroine! This ain't the shooting of Hangover 4. 

The drugs I am taking about are pain killers, cold-n-flu busters and antibiotics. You may not be immune to what you may find there. You may not even be immune to 'incorrect travel postures' (explains the back pain, aye?). Keep them in handy.

6) A bottle of water

If you are going on a road trip (-ish), then there will be no one to hand you a glass of water. So lets just say, dehydration is not what you want. Having a bottle of water with you may also help you get a splash or two when you cant stay awake while driving (sleepy company at night ;) ). It is a necessity! 

7) Beauty Essentials

Girl or Boy. Young or Old. You will have something that you need to keep yourself presentable. I am not taking about your make up bag. I am taking about things likes a face wash, moisturizer, mirror, hair brush and lip balm. If you are a girl then may be add a few hair ties and bobby pins. You don't need to pack your dressing table! Boys, ditch the hair gel in your luggage bag. And the deos! Or may be keep it for the sake of others. 

8) Banana

No, just don't laugh. These bad boys have a lot of energy in them and will help you stay full for a very long time. You will need to eat to be able to enjoy and finding a service station every time you are hungry is not the best option. And this will also help you stay a little healthier. 

Have short snacks. Include a banana somewhere in it. 

There definitely are going to be things that you may consider to be more important. So let me know what they are! Also remember that these are general essentials and will change depending on many factors. 

That is it for this week's blog post.

Have an amazing week ahead :)

Toodles

xXx

Coming up Next week: 10 Ways to Organise your life

Next Review on: Veet Hair Minimising Lotion

Review: The Kane Chronicles by Rick Riordan

The Kane Chronicles; Trilogy

If you are anything like me, you would have already read these books. This series. Kane Chronicles, by Rick Riordan is a Must Read for a fiction and myth enthusiast. The book is based on Ancient Egyptian myth, when the gods and the goddesses ruled the lands before the pharaohs came by. However, the actually story is set on  a modern day perspective. If you want to know more about the plot, then Click Here and come back to read my review. 

Each of these books are a something 300-400 pages long and I managed to finish each one of them in less than 3 days. That just says how indulging and beautifully written the book is. The book is framed like a tapped diary, the brother and sister; Carter and Sadie Kane, taking turns to narrate the story. 

From seeing their parents becoming the higher Gods themselves, to falling in love with 'death' himself and you obviously you are going to have a pet crocodile and will adopt a chimpanzee just for fun! 

Its one of those books where you are locked in your own world listening to a voice telling you a tale so fascinating that it is almost real. 

The author, Rick Riordan has done some thorough research into the facts mentioned in the trilogy. Most of the incidents mentioned (like the two suns rising) have actually happened and evidence is found :)

After finishing the first book the wait for the second book to come was very very long. But you, Oh Reader, are so lucky! Because at this moment in time the complete trilogy waiting for you either at your local library or Here!

If you ask me to rate this book out of a 5, then my answer would be;

Keep Calm and Read the Kane Chronicles

That is it for this week's review.

Have an amazing week ahead :)

Toodles

xXx

Coming up, Next week: Top 8-Travel Essentials
Next Review on: That Awkward Moment OR Veet Hair Minimising Lotion.