Aurelia Skincare Miracle Cleanser

I'm going to be blunt - people can be incredibly dim about cleansing their skin. I've lost count of the times I've spotted a cheap, harsh, foaming bottle from the drugstore on the same counter as a $100 face cream and designer makeup, and it flies in the face of logic - stripping skin before slapping on expensive treatments to counteract all that damage. Madness! Oil is what breaks down oil, deep cleaning into pores without breaking the fragile lipid barrier - so stop using detergents on your face. Please.

 

So, as you might imagine, a good, creamy cleanser is always the first item I recommend to people looking to revamp their routine or improve problem compexions. I feel very strongly about it. I'm even forced into using exclamation marks. When skin is primed properly, and gently, you can toss expensive treatments, use less moisturizer and keep skin so much happier and healthier. And the act of cleasing itself - massaging a creamy dollop into your tired, dirty visage, then gently wiping off with a steamy hot cloth - really is sublimely therapeutic, to skin and senses. Basically, once you go hot cloth cleansing, you don't go back. 

 

The newest, brightest star on the creamy cleanser front, one that had me hooked at first use, is the aptly named Miracle Cleanser from Aurelia Probiotic Skincare, a small UK-based brand with the purest of ingredients and ethics. The cool, creamy concoction breaks down makeup and oils expertly with coconut derived cleansing agents, fatty acids, cocoa and shea butters, while soothing and nourishing the skin with botanical extracts like kigelia and baobab and their flagship probiotic proteins. But it's the blend of eucalyptus, rosemary and chamomile essential oils that's elevated this into cult classic status in the beauty world already. The gorgeous, invigorating scent is like a creamy, couture Noxzema - waking up senses in the morning and wiping away the stress of the day at night. Fair warning - it's additive. 

Since adding this to my routine, I find I'm looking for any excuse to wash my face. I've started humming chipper tunes in the bathroom while I cleanse. Yesterday I woke up at an ungodly early hour and went jogging. I'd be horrified if my skin didn't look so gorgeous. And it really is gorgeous. Obviously I take care of it, and it's ever really that bad to begin with, but there's a more even-toned glow, a clean, soft, smooth feel that the Miracle Cleanser has most definitely imparted. I've stopped using any serums, treatments, exfoliants - just this and my usual moisturizer, and the results are, well, miraculous. Unfortunately I've used my jar up much too quickly - it's easy to ration, but I like to slather on several finger-fulls and really go to town with the whole facial massage routine, meaning that stores are getting ominously low. Will I'll return to my sloveny, lazy self without my Miracle Cleanser fix? I don't intend to find out, as I'll be re-ordering. Ad infinitum.

The Miracle Cleanser is $53 for a 4 oz jar, not at all pricey for a luxury cream or balm cleanser, as it lasts for ages, but an investment for those of you used to skimping on cleansers (fools). Aurelia is one of those brands I'm so happy to see do well, and that I can stomach paying a solid price for. They're passionate, as they well should be, about products they've formulated with incredible detail, love and care. I love the little touches you get with a small, beautifully-run line like this - the gorgeous, hand-wrapped packages, the luxurious, heavy glass jars and bottles, ingredients of a quality that organic doesn't begin to cover. So go and buy this immediately - it gets The Blossom Shed seal of approval and then some. Now I'm off to wash my face. Again.

Aurelia Probiotic Skincare is available at Net a Porter in the US, and from their website in the UK. Now be honest - are you guilty of crimes against cleansing, or do you keep things creamy? Let's discuss below...

 

*This product was a PR sample from the generous people at Aurelia Skincare. This in no way effects my opinions - if I don't like a product, I don't feature it!  

A Mother's Day Giveaway with New London Pharmacy

Giveaway closed .....

Congratulations Trish P!

Mother's Day is approaching, so let's just say it like it is - we'd be nothing without our moms. Besides the whole giving life, raising us, unconditional love part, there's those subtle little things they've given us that make us who we are. I think of my love of animals as something that defines me, but guess what? It comes from my mom. Ditto a penchant for English murder mysteries and pretty clothes, and one hell of a sweet tooth. Whenever we act kind, or silly, or hardworking or brave, it's because someone taught us well, and that someone is usually a mom.

So in celebration of all of mothers and mother figures, I'm thrilled to be able to team up with the fabulous New London Pharmacy to offer one lucky winner a ridiculously lovely beauty bundle, valued at over $400, and full of pampering goodies for the perfect girl's night in. Think a mom you know deserves a treat? Here's your chance to win a luxurious collection of pretty products just for her (of if you're a mom yourself, just for you!).

The Mommy Makeover Kit from New London Pharmacy includes....

Apple & Bee Train Case, Kevyn Aucoin Making Faces Collection Volume I Kit, Rahua Shampoo and Conditioner, The "Wet" Brush, Molton Brown Blissful Templetree Bath & Shower Gel, Forever Natural Bamboo & Jute Back Strap,The Thymes Lotus Santal Body Lotion, Supersmile Whitening Toothpaste, Elgydium Whitening Toothbrush, Fa Pink Passion Deo Roll-on, Jane Iredale Cherish Lip Fixation, Tweezerman Mani Brow Rescue Kit, Basicare Manicure Tool Kit, Gehwol Footcream, Butter London Primrose Hill Picnic Nail Color, and V Beaute' Lip Spread Anti-Age Tinting Lip Gloss.

To enter, simply use the Rafflecopter widget below to....

1. Follow The Blossom Shed on Bloglovin, Facebook or Twitter (or all three!).
2. Sign up for New London Pharmacy's Newsletter on their website.
3. Leave a comment below telling us what makes your mom (or a mom you know, or being a mom yourself) so special!

Open to US adresses only, and hurry, giveway closes at midnight, Saturday May 11th. Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Photo via Pinterest

Spring Clean Your Skin....

It's spring cleaning time, and I love throwing open the windows and filling the house with the scent of fresh linen, clean floors and polished wood. After you've tackled those dust bunnies under the bed and dusted down cobwebs from the corners, spare a thought for your skin. After a long winter of cold wind and dry, forced-air heating, things are bound to be a bit of a mess.  Once a week, I like to do the skincare equivalent of a quick hoover 'round with a quick and super-effective exfoliating mask - working like a gentle peel, they leave skin soft, smooth and bright. Sweep dead skin, splotchy pigment, blocked pores and general dullness out the door, leaving skin deep-cleaned, glowing, and rejuvenated.

I love the Dr Sebagh Deep Exfoliating Mask for it's heavy duty, deep-cleaning prowess - a 10 minute spa treatment in a jar, it brightens, smooths and reduces hyperpigmentation with azelaic and lactic acids. A cult classic (I've already gushed over it here) with a price tag to match, it's available in two strengths,and is worth every penny. 

The REN Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask is the perfect mid-range workhorse - effective enough to show instant results but gentle enough to be used regularly, it harnesses glycolic and lactic acids from fruit sources for cleaner, smaller-looking pores and smoother skintone. Extra points for the tidy and hygenic bottle.

Juice Beauty's Green Apple Peel exfoliates with alpha hydroxy acids from its organic apple, grape and lemon extracts for a fresh smelling, quick acting clean - available in sensitive and full strengths, it's gentle, effective and utterly natural.

If you're planning to use a gentle peel this spring, remember the basics - apply to cleansed skin, and always start slow - three minutes is a good gauge of how your skin will react. Acids tingle and sting slightly as they work, but shouldn't feel unpleasant or burning. Remove with a warm washcloth, and follow up with a nourishing moisturizer - skin should look glowing or slightly flushed. Obviously, be careful you have incredibly sensitive, reactive skin - though for the record I have quite sensitive skin and have used all three of these with good results.  Most importantly, remember to be vigilant about the sun after any sort of acid exfoliant - all that baby-soft, delicate new skin needs to be protected!

How do you spring clean your skin? Have a favorite product? I'd love to hear from you below...

Head Over Heels for Suti Foot Balm...

Spring is finally, firmly here. Prepare yourselves - this means we need to talk about feet. The time is fast approaching when they'll need to be bared to the world again, and I know I can't be the only one that's a bit concerned. Up until now, I'm not really sure when I had last looked at my feet. Most of the sightings this winter have been just a quick glance between stripping off two pairs of woolly socks and leaping into a hot bath. All I can say is thank goodness for the soothing bliss and rejuvenatory prowess of Suti's Foot Balm...

After an lengthy duel with the pumice stone, there's nothing like this gorgeous, aromatic balm to breath new life into tired, winter-weary feet. The invigorating blend of rosemary, eucalyptus and peppermint oils rev up circulation and soothe the senses, while rich shea butter, olive oil, calendula and beeswax moisturize deeply and thoroughly  Top off with a pair of cotton socks before bed, and you'll awake to softer, smoother, summer-ready toes.

It's no secret that I'm a big Suti fan - I love the fact that they combine beyond pure ingredients and green practices with products that feel luxurious and special. It doesn't hurt that everything just really works too. My feet may not look any less childlike and chubby (they don't make a balm for that apparently) but they're now soft and dare I say almost pretty looking, ready for a season full of my favorite barefoot, Bardot-style looks.

If you work on your feet all day, or just neglect them a little more than you should, you need a little jar of this magic on your beauty shelf. And if you're feeling generous of spirit and purse this spring, keep it in mind as the perfect gift - doctor, waitress, athlete or frazzled mom, surely we all know someone whose tired, sore feet could use a little pampering? Perhaps with a complimentary foot rub included? Outside the UK, you can find Suti at Shen Beauty in the US, and Fresh Faced in Canada.

*This product was a PR sample from the generous people at Suti. This in no way effects my opinions - if I don't like a product, I don't feature it. Bardot pic via Pinterest.

Scrub Amnesty - Balance Me Cleanse and Smooth Face Balm

Let me start this by saying that I am, in principle, anti-scrub.  I'm usually one of their most vehement opponents, believing, quite rightly, that no good can come of treating your skin like a block of wood that needs sanding. They make skin feel super clean for ten minutes until oil production goes into overdrive to recover from all that sandblasting - thus beginning a dreadful cycle. 

However... there are those of you whose skins do perfectly well with a gentle physical exfoliant two or three times a week to remove dead skin, brighten up the complexion and add an extra glow. And there are those of you who will just refuse to toss out your gritty scrubs and like the feeling they give. So if you must scrub, I beg you - toss out your foaming walnut shell concoctions, and try something like Balance Me's lovely Cleanse and Smooth Face Balm instead.

A smooth, rich balm in a handy tube, it uses sweet almond, kukui nut, camellia and coconut oils to deep clean and dissolve dirt and makeup, while finely ground oatmeal polishes and exfoliates skin. I love the beautiful orange blossom-type scent and the glow it gives skin in the mornings. You can still feel the invigorating scrubby-effect, but aren't stripping your skin with quite such gusto, and the lovely oils will soothe and nourish along the way. The oatmeal will eventually clog up your sink a bit, and if you use it while staying over at friend's houses you won't be invited back. But we must all pay a price for beauty, and a clogged sink is a somewhat small one.

Balance Me is a fabulous new and fast-growing brand that makes pure, high-quality products with reasonable prices. The line is simple and easy to navigate, with cute, user-friendly packaging - it's a great place to start if you're looking to buy some skincare staples to "green up" your beauty cabinet this spring. Readers outside the US can buy from Look Fantastic, which offers free, albeit slow, international shipping.

So there you have it - a somewhat confusing message. Don't use scrubs! But if you must, use this one - it's lovely. 

So now's the time to spill your secrets below - what's the worst thing you've ever done to your face? For a time as a teen, I used an exfoliating pad from the Body Shop that had the exact texture of a Brillo pad. It somehow seemed like a good idea at the time...

*This product was a press sample. Samples in no way affect my opinion - if I don't like a product, I don't write about it. 

Cult Classics - Body Brush (aka Cellulite Lightsaber) Edition

 

Ah cellulite. That great equalizer of womankind. Rich and poor, plump or thin, we will all have a touch of those unpleasant ripples at some time in our lives - whether it be through genetics, a weakness for French pastries or general sluggishness (I'm three for three). I might have a fairly slim and active physique, but there was definitely a creeping pudding-like quality happening around my lower half this autumn that was, quite literally, weighing me down.

Despite what countless beauty mags and posh french toning creams would have you believe, here's technically really only two things that have can improve the appearance of all those lumps and bumps -  toning the surrounding skin and muscle, and boosting circulation. The first thing sounded unpleasant and like there might have been sweat involved, so I dove headfirst into the second.  I went out, bought a $10 natural bristle body brush, and have never looked back.

A quick brush down of dry skin before the shower - maybe 90 seconds max - and within a month things were looking up. Six months later, and the results are, if I do say so myself, stunning. Smoother, softer and altogether less evidence of eclairs. The benefits to the appearance are of course delightful, but I swear it also just makes me feel healthier - the brushing revs up circulation, helping the body rid itself of toxins and altogether invigorating the system. Plus all that exfoliation makes for some seriously lovely skin - I barely use messy scrubs at all anymore, there's no need, so there's also much less chance of me slipping in a greasy tub and cracking my head on the soapdish. A win-win situation by all accounts.

I only brush about twice a week -  when I remember/can be bothered. I've had such incredible results so far that I'm almost apprehensive to see what would happen with a daily brushdown. Where would it all end? Circulatory overload? Victoria's Secret contract? I shall find out, and report back.

For now, all I know for sure is that the humble skin brush now holds a place of honor on my bathroom shelf. I feel better, I certainly look better, and I shall be celebrating this all with some seriously short skirts. I suggest you go buy a brush and join me.

The Elemis Cactus Bristle Brush is considered the gold standard by most, but I'm perfectly happy with my $10 Whole Foods variety. Whatever brand you buy, you just want natural fibre bristles like cactus or agave, and a comfortable handle.  Watch this handy dandy tutorial for clear instructions on how to brush - basically, it's just long, light strokes, always towards the heart.

Cult Classics - Dr Hauschka Rose Day Cream

 

Sometimes there's a time when skin doesn't need to be constantly bombarded by cutting-edge ingredients that are plumping, filling, brightening or reversing things. Sometimes it just needs a lovely long drink of something soft and soothing. Like a holiday where you let it laze about a bit and feel indulged. That's when I pull out my tube of  Dr Hauschka Rose Day Cream. A true cult classic, it's beautiful in its simplicity - no fancy scientific claims, wonder ingredients or trendy packaging. Just high quality, nourishing ingredients in a perfect formula. 

I used this religiously as a young teenager - when living at very high altitude in thin, dry air - and I never got over the way it would give my skin this instant glow, with an almost warming effect - excellent for a climate where you're always cold. You'll take any warming you can get.  The price has unfortunately gone up by almost double since I started using it, which is a scary indication of how old I'm getting. So it is quite pricey, but each tube contains the essence of 30 roses, and that sort of thing doesn't come cheap. Think about pressing your face into a bushel of silky rose petals. Gorgeous, right? That's kind of what this feels like, but without the worry of thorns or a stray beetle getting into the mix. 

The original version is extremely rich and hydrating, but the essential oils are almost a bit too much for my skin these days - which is why I now prefer the Rose Day Cream Light. With all the same beautiful ingredients and pampering effects, with a lighter, smoother texture, it's my favorite straightforward, soothing and nourishing all-round moisturizer. The light version uses sesame and apricot kernel instead of the regular's peanut oil and shea butter - and is perfect for younger, combination or summertime skins. Should my skin get particularly thirsty, or I spend time in colder, dryer climes this winter, I'll be pulling the original back out. It's been a cult classic and celebrity favorite for years, and rightfully so - it will certainly always have a place of honor in my skincare arsenal.

Oh and it smells divine, in case you needed another reason to award it coveted cult status. Creamy, soft and natural. Would you expect anything less of thirty roses jammed into a tiny metal tube?

Rose image via Pinterest...

Suti Giveaway Winners Announced

It's results day! Thank you all for entering our first giveaway - we're thrilled that each and every one of you from so many places all over the world stopped by, and after reading your lovely comments we wish we could send a bottle to you all. We actually felt quite bad about it, like we were playing skincare God. But we eventually managed to pull ourselves together, and were strict and fair. Random numbers chosen, and the laws of probability have spoken - the four lucky new owners of a pretty glass bottle of golden Suti Rejuvenate Face Oil are:

The Procrastinator (who said that her skin could use a treat after a hot, Toronto summer)

MoonRae (who needs to keep skin hydrated in dry west Texas)

SayAnything (who needs to treat her stressed out skin after slogging at Uni)

and 

XXAubreyAnn (who says she needs some pampering because she's a worrier!)

Thanks again to everyone who entered and helped to make our first giveaway such a success, and to Suti for supplying the beautiful prizes. If you want another chance to win something to pamper your skin, stay tuned -  we'll have another lovely surprise coming this fall....

August Favorites - Lazy Summer Beauty

I don't know about you, but I get awfully lazy when it comes to beauty in the summer. A hint of sun on the skin and some healthy outdoor living, and I can just about forgo all the fuss so required in greyer months. Hair is left easy and undone - a spritzing of Surf Spray through damp locks leaves my straight, fine locks wavy and tousled with minimum effort. NARS brilliant new tinted moisturizer somehow covers imperfections thoroughly while leaving skin sheer and glowy - with a good helping of SPF included. A slick of juicy, pink Beach Tint dabbed on cheek bones leaves a healthy looking flush, and several lashings of Dr Hauschka's soft and simple mascara is the perfect natural-looking definition for my sensitive eyes. I love the deep shine and Aegean teal hue of Butter London's Slapper on toes - and accept that the name is alarmingly fitting, though somewhat accusatory. Shins and shoulders on show get a golden sheen from a few drops of Huile Prodigieuse, and a dab of Philosykos solid perfume on wrists and neck leave a light, fresh cloud of tart, green fig in your wake. 

How do you pare down your makeup routine in the dog days of summer? Any hero products? Share them below!

Honeyed Kisses

I mentioned HollyBeth Organic's Grits and Honey Scrub this last week in passing as the lip smoother that dreams are made of, but it deserves a post to itself.  You know those days when your lips look reasonably smooth and soft, and then you apply lipstick and are utterly disgusted? Flakes and lines and general unpleasantness abound? This will make those days merely a bad memory. Gentle, effective and hydrating.  I'm afraid I can attest to its deliciousness as well -  I usually end up eating at least a large spoonful per scrubbing session. Luckily the ingredients read like a sweet southern desert - organic corn grits, almond oil, vitamin E and Tupelo honey - it's basically a really lovely breakfast. I have a small, lipbalm sized pot, which is why I happened to use it on my lips to begin with, but it's actually marketed as a body scrub. I can only imagine the luxury of slathering this on in the shower - it's something I intend to find out sooner rather than later. 

In fairness this would be relatively easy to make yourself, and for a bit cheaper, but sometimes you just need a special treat, and don't want to have to pull out a mixing bowl and whisk before your bath. Use this for those times. Your skin will be left smooth as silk and smelling like honeyed heaven. Dare I say the perfect choice for a date night?

HollyBeth Organics is a tiny little company in Atlanta that makes charming and simple organic products by hand in an old cotton warehouse. Besides this honeyed masterpiece, I love their adorable sample tins, and like to keep a few on hand for easy, thoughtful little hostess gifts. 

How do you keep lips in tip-top snogging shape? Are you a fan of grits? Tell us about it below...

Lazy Links

Today is a bit too hot to sunbathe, so here we are - sprawled out under over-worked ceiling fans, eating popsicle after popsicle, and generally making a sticky, grape-colored mess of the keyboard. If your Monday is looking as lazy as ours, how about a little wander around some of the things that caught our eye this week?


Cleanse your palate after this week's Venetian excess with some light-filled, clean interiors From Scandinavia with Love. Makes us want to buy a cheerily painted summer house and eat lots of herring.


A list of the best secret British beaches. Chilly, pebbly heaven.


An ode to the style icon that is Clair Huxtable. Say what you like - the woman could wear the hell out of a chunky sweater.


We have finally discovered the cure for dry, peeling lips. It involves tupelo honey and corn grits, and it's very difficult not to just eat the stuff straight out of the tub.


Some genius has built a library in a vineyard. They're our kind of crazy.


This sweater isn't just criminally fabulous, it's also coronation-appropriate. Now we just need the weather to cool off a bit so we can wear it.


Are we the only ones to think this whole Coachella cruise thing sounds like a really terrible idea? Like scores of drunk girls overboard bad? Though the thought of fruity drinks at the ship's bar with Jarvis Cocker almost saves it. We feel he'd be a pina colada man.


The house of Yves Saint Laurent is changing the brand's title to Saint Laurent Paris. This is too idiotic for us to care to comment on. 


Those sneaky minxes over at Domestic Sluttery have started a pudding club. It's chocolate month apparently. We would like to join a club where other people make us lovely puddings and then drop them off at our door without wanting to come in and chat. 


Did you know there's a Jane Austen festival held in Kentucky every year? Everyone dresses up, has tea, and we can only assume does some serious matchmaking and/or verbal sparring. Oh and there's gentlemen's DUELS. We're in.


Have you entered our absolutely fabulous giveaway yet? Why on earth not?


We have absolute swathes of scent, skincare and makeup reviews on the way again - let us know if there's anything you'd particularly love to see, or if you have any burning beauty questions you're dying to ask. Leave a comment, or write us at theblossomshed@gmail.com - we adore getting mail....

image via Pinterest

Giveaway! Win a Sumptuous Face Oil from Suti - CLOSED!

Here we are at The Blossom Shed's very first giveaway, and it's a fabulous one if we do say so ourselves. The lovely ladies at Suti, that temple of all that is pure, luxurious and nourishing, have generously sent us FOUR bottles of their divine Rejuvenate Face Oil to share...


Remember how we gushed over the sumptuous Nourish Oil earlier this year? The Rejuvenate Oil is like its younger, peppier sister - a bit lighter and zestier, with an uplifting, citrus scent and bright, golden color. A blend of the purest, highest quality oils - rosehip, argan, evening primrose, sandalwood, frankincense, tangerine and neroli - it's utter heaven for your your senses and your skin.


Hydrating, balancing and soothing, it's a fabulous choice for dry, sensitive, mature, combination and acne-plagued skins. Basically, everyone. Wear it daily, nightly, or as a treat when your skin needs a little extra pampering. It's lovely under sunscreen, and I feel like it keeps my skin soft and hydrated while still allowing it to breathe - I use it on weekends when I want to give skin a break and a bit of a pamper - a few drops massaged into damp skin leave it glowing and radiant.


Want to read more about the product? Peruse some of the glowing reviews at Beauty Mouth, A Model Recommends, Elle UK and Fig + Sage. We also want to send a huge thank you to Tina and Suzannah of Suti for sponsoring this giveaway - they're skincare geniuses and generous to boot.


CARE TO WIN A BOTTLE?


Leave a comment telling us A) how you follow The Blossom Shed - GFC, Bloglovin', Twitter or Facebook (if you want us to love you forever you'll follow via ALL of them) and B) why your skin deserves a treat. Giveaway ends August 1st, and is open to anyone, anywhere - it may take us ages to mail it if you're in Siberia, but send it we will.


Four winners will be chosen randomly - make sure you leave a contact,  via email or Twitter, so that we can contact you if you're one of the lucky few!

Feel the Burn - Soothing Scalded Skin...

I'm over at She Said Beauty again today, rounding up the best ways to soothe a sunburn. Head on over if you've ever been a little too careless with your SPF - these remedies and potions will take the sting right out of your burn....


Ever had a really dreadful burn? I've had a few minor mishaps so far this summer - no one told me that Zyrtec and other allergy medicines can make you photosensitive. Ouch...

Cult Classic - Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse

I've long admired Nuxe's Huile Prodigieuse from afar - convinced that until I spent my summers on a wood-panelled yacht on the Riviera, I didn't need to be spending a fair chunk of money on a tiny bottle of fragrant, luxurious oil. I broke down this year and decided not to wait for the yacht - that could take ages - and until then I'd like to be adding a bit Riviera glam and featherlight hydration to everyday life.

The blend of six precious oils (Borage, St. John's Wort, Sweet Almond, Camellia, Hazelnut and Macadamia) sinks invisibly and lightly into skin, leaving a glowing, subtle sheen. No mess, no oiliness, just instant, lightweight hydration. The beautiful frangipani fragrance smells like a beach in the south of France - sunsoaked, expensive and slightly old fashioned.  Smooth onto shins and shoulders for extra glow, or dab a bit onto cuticles as a luxurious pick me up for overworked hands. A drop or two leaves hair shimmering, separated and softly fragrant - with no heavy formulas or slick silicones to weigh it down. I even like a tiny amount on cheek and browbones to add a little highlight to skin. It's a multi-purpose hero product for me, and I'm not alone - in France, a bottle is sold every six seconds - entrenching it firmly into cult classic territory. Nuxe products are some of my very favorites - simple, high-quality, pharmacie-chic - besides the divine Huile Prodigieuse, I'm a big fan of their cleansing waters and soothing moisturizers.

Basically, you need a bottle. It will sit looking stately and stylish on your dressing table, you'll reach for it daily, and when you close your eyes you could almost be on that yacht - what more can you ask?

NIA 24 Sun Damage Protection SPF 30

I have a shocking confession to make. I don't wear sunscreen very often. The single most effective anti-aging product you can buy, and I just can't be bothered. Every single bottle I've tried, be it light or heavy, cheap or pricey, they all irritate my skin, burn my eyes, break me out or basically just get on my nerves. I'll deal with it when I have to, when I'm hiking or at the beach, but usually I just put on an enormous hat, and devil take the hindmost.

This is a supremely stupid attitude, and I've finally paid the price. Last summer I was in a Target dressing room, which may possibly have the most shockingly depressing and unflattering lighting known to man, trying on a sundress. It was too small, and got stuck on my head for ages. But that's not the point of the story - the point is that I noticed a dark smudge of dirt on my upper lip which I tried to nonchalantly rub off, only to find that it was a patch of darker pigment, just in the perfect spot to give the impression, in certain lights, of a somewhat dashing moustache.

So that was that. I (finally) got the dress off my head, and began the search for an SPF that I could stand. And now, just in time for summer and long days of sunshine, I think I've finally found it...

NIA 24 is a new, highly regarded skincare line that's based around Niacin, also known as Vitamin B3, which has proved extremely effective in healing and repairing damaged cells while renewing and strengthening skin. Hyperpigmentation and sun damage is faded and brightened, while skin feels plumper, younger and less fragile.

I've been using their Sun Damage Protection SPF 30 daily for the last month, and it's really quite something - not just light and weightless on skin, but I think it's actually improving the tone and texture of my skin. No breakouts, no greasiness, no unpleasant feeling of it sitting on top of my skin. Just glowing skin, and nary a moustache in sight. And no eye irritation. Everything irritates my eyes. WATER irritates my eyes. The fact that this doesn't is incredible, and enough to keep me in cases of it for life.

The first two days I used this, I was a bit disappointed by the fact that is seemed to leave my skin drier and dehydrated feeling - upon further research, this is apparently completely normal as the skin repairs itself and rebalances - the dryness was completely gone by day three. So give it a chance and don't judge right away. While the formula feels rich, it sinks in well after a few minutes, with no greasiness or residuge, though I find I still need a light moisturizer underneath for my dry skin. I'm currently using the mineral SPF, though there's also a broad-spectrum chemical version, which I intend to try next - a great range of choice for those sensitive to certain SPF ingredients. There's an extremely light, almost imperceptible fragrance, but it's perfectly pleasant. I think it smells of pineapple and fresh bread, but don't let that put you off - I may just be strange.

What I really, really love about this cream is that the high amounts of active Pro-Niacin in the formula mean that skin is not only protected from sun damage, but that previous damage is being reversed - it's not just protecting skin, it's actually improving it. Yet another incentive to be judicous about applying it consistently.

At $45 it's on the high end of daily sunscreens, but it's a very generous sized tube - it will easily last an entire summer - so I think its price is fair, and I'll be repurchasing consistently. I'm looking forward to trying out several of the other products in the line as well, so look for reviews of their serums and moisturizers to come.

I can hardly wait to try this out in summer, during long, blistering hikes and langurous hours in hot, poolside sun, feeling virtuous as I extol the neccessity of broad spectrum protection without feeling like a hypocrite. I hope to have nothing more than a faint smattering of charming freckles across the bridge of my nose - nothing more permanent than that.

Are you good about applying sunscreen? Do you have any sun damage or hyperpigmentation? Have you found the perfect formula yet, or are you still looking? Spring is here, so you better have a good one at the ready! I highly recommend this one - I expect 20 years from now that I'll be thankful I started using it when I did....

(Product was kindly provided by Dermstore for review)

Boscia BB Cream

As pale winter skin transitions into the spring sunshine, I've needed a little bit of help to add some glow to my dull complexion. I don't do foundation, and have yet to find a tinted moisturizer I like - so thank goodness for Boscia BB Cream - it's like a soft-focus, invisible veil for those days when just a few dabs of concealer aren't quite enough.

The color won't be for everyone - there's only one shade, and though it warms up my pale, warm skin nicely, but probably will turn orange on anyone fairer, and won't suit anyone with much darker skin. It's definitely a product that I recommend sampling first - it's unique and won't suit all skins or types - but if you're looking for light, dewy coverage that feels weightless and natural on skin, and the color is a good match, it may be your holy grail. I apply a few dots of it on moisturized skin and blend out with my fingertips - within a few minutes it really settles in and leaves skin looking sunkissed and glowy. Thicker and chalkier than a tinted moisturizer, it's a bit harder to blend at first, but seems to plump and smooth skin - the formula is silicone-heavy, but doesn't feel overly slick and doesn't irritate my sensitive skin. Dark shadows are lessened, redness is neutralized, and skin looks soft and natural. It lasts well throughout the day and leaves a dewy, radiant finish - there is a hint of shimmer, but it's subtle once applied and adds to the luminous finish.

I like this simply because every other similar product tends to feel like it's not doing much good for my skin - covering it up or irritating it - even my skin is claustrophobic. This feels almost weightless - I love that it has mineral-based SPF 27, gentle, natural ingredients, and actually seems to soothe and settle my complexion if anything - I like to keep it in my arsenal for days when skin is looking dull or sallow and needs a little bit of extra help. I also have to say I love the pretty tube with its Japanese wave pattern - it's allowed onto my strictly policed dressing table with other attractively packaged items, not relegated to a dreaded drawer.

You can buy Boscia's BB Cream at Sephora and Dermstore - I recommend popping into your local Sephora and getting a generous sample to take home and test out - you may find it's your summer skin must-have.

Have you tried any of the new slew of BB creams on the market? Do you have a favorite Tinted Moisturizer or light coverage foundation for the warmer months? Tell us about it below!

(product kindly supplied for consideration by Boscia)

Coachella Beauty....

It's Coachella time here in the States, and I love everything about it – perfect weather, beautiful setting, dry, soft grass underfoot and a fun, relaxed area for a weekend away. The music isn't bad either. Sadly, I'm not going this year, so by rights I should be sulking and vindictive, especially with Pulp and Arctic Monkeys on the same day. Be still my Britpop-beating heart... Instead, I'm going to try to be helpful, and share my list of beauty essentials, the music festival edition of what's in my handbag?

It's a long day (or days) under hot sun - so keep makeup simple, with a hint of cool, easy edge, and bring along pint-sized products for minimum fuss and maximum glam. Here's my top ten - all of which will fit very nicely into a tiny, across the body purse or wristlet, so as not to hinder your ace dance moves - just make sure it zips or fastens up – you don’t want things spilling everywhere when you pass out in the front row. Not that I’d know anything about that…

1) Super by Perricone Sun Kissed SPF 25 - start with this light sun protection with a hint of tint, for natural, glowing skin.

2) Caudalie Beauty Elixir - to refresh and invigorate tired skin with rosemary and mint. Heaven on a hot, dusty day.

3) Josie Maran Bear Naked Facial Wipes - gentle and mild for quick touch ups. Also, there's polar bears on the packaging, which will always get points from me.

4) Laura Mercer Kohl in Antique Jade - because black is very rock, but oh so dull - this creamy stick lines eyes with a rich, warm shade that has a hint of green depth and will look so much prettier in the outdoor light.

5) Laura Mercier Caviar Shadow Stick in Khaki -smudge your liner with this fabulous cream shadow/liner - for undone but glam eyes that will look magic in the desert sunset. Follow rock rules when it smudges/fades - just add more over top.

6) Eyeko Skinny Mascara – for long, fluttery lashes that last and last, with none of the dry, prickly feeling of a waterproof mascara. You should probably bring along the included guitar pick - someone's sure to need it, and you just might save the day.

7) Burt's Bees Grapefruit Lip Balm - don't mess with fancy new glosses or balms on a day in the desert - play it safe with what you know works. Refreshing citrus smell and super hydrating formula leaves lips plump and natural, and you can tuck it in your bra when you dance. That's what I do anyway.

8) Klorane Gentle Oat Milk Dry Shampoo - freshen up roots and add some cool texture to your locks in between sets.

9) Tocca Stella Scented SPF 30 Wipes - touch up shoulders, arms and chest throughout the day with these heavenly, blood-orange scented SPF towelettes. Don't forget your feet - gladiator sandal tan is never attractive.

10) NARS Paradise Brush/Bronzer/Highlighter Trio - the perfect festival compact - in a genius padded, zip package, with universally flattering hues for defined, sunkissed cheeks and temples.

Who’s your favorite in the Coachella line-up this year? Do you have a must-have item for long days in the sun? Share your tips below!

Becca Halcyon Days Palette

I had a fabulous and unexpected little suprise this month - I recently joined a the IFabbo organization for bloggers, and was entered in a drawing for a $100 Dermstore giftcard - which I won! I was probably disproportionately thrilled, I actually did a little dance, and spent far too much time choosing what I would spend it on. The sensible part of me kept saying "be reasonable - stock up on your skincare basics". But the impulsive side kept telling me to live a little and enjoy these halcyon days. So that's what I did.

I'd been lusting after Becca's Halcyon Days palette for almost a year - a gorgeous blend of three tawny, golden eyeshadows, a brilliant coral lip and cheek cream and a sheer gloss. I was eyeing it jealously after seeing the lovely Ruth at A Model Recommends do a beautiful sunset smokey eye look with it - she has similar coloring to me, and it looked so easy, effortless and glowing. So when Dermstore offered a free Becca Beach Tint with the purchase (which I adore), just I threw caution to the wind and pushed the purchase button.

Happily, I couldn't be more thrilled with it.

I almost never wear eyeshadow - I feel like I never can get the hang of making it look natural and flattering - these three shades are all I may ever need - they add a bit of beachy, summer glam without looking too made up. Muslin and Chamois are a pale ivory and soft brown, both in a velvety matte, and the particularly gorgeous Faille is a shimmering coppery apricot, really flattering to my pale but warm-toned (aka sallow) toned skin. The formulas are like silk - smooth, fine, and a dream to blend, and together they create a beautiful, soft eye with a hint of shimmer and depth.

The clear star of the palette is the lip and cheek cream in Bougainvillea - a bright, orangey coral, it looks a bit scary in the pan, but blends out dewy and gorgeous on skin - a dab on the apples of cheeks and a slick on lips looks so ridiculously pretty that I'm afraid I'll use it up immediately. I'm already looking at other shades of the formula in full sizes - it's my favorite cream blush so far, much creamier and more pigmented than anything else I've tried.

The last character in the charming little quintet is a lip gloss in the shade Mai Tai - which at first I thought was a bit of a disappointment - an almost clear gloss didn't seem like much of an addition. Well, it wouldn't be if it were a normal gloss, but of course this is Becca, so it's not. Not sticky or plastic-feeling, it doesn't sit on top of lips but hydrates and plumps them, leaving them looking healthy and luscious, and is the perfect pairing for the lip cream. Even the little double-ended brush that's included is beautiful quality - it's nicer than most of my full sizes.

I used to never buy palettes - it's rare to find the perfect blend of colors and formulas - but that may change now, especially if Becca keeps releasing beauties like this. The pretty little brown rectangle box is now among my travel neccessities - a bit of glossy mascara, a hint of brown liner, a sweep of bronzer, and that's my daily makeup sorted for the next six months.

If you haven't already ordered from Dermstore, go check out their selection - I tend to get most of my skincare basics there year after year. It meets all my requirements for a favorite store - free shipping (I HATE paying shipping!), great discounts and coupons (usually 15% or 20% - which is a huge help on a $100 face cream) and fabulous customer service. I had a coupon for $25 that had long since expired without me realizing it - I was hoping they could apply it to my order, but really didn't expect them to. Instead, they were wonderful about it, said they were happy to honor it, and I got my order two days later with a handwritten note. Take note online retailers - that's how you keep your customers happy:) Thank you Dermstore! And of course a big thank you to IFabbo too...

I'm going to have to start featuring some products I hate soon, just because it's getting bit boring with all these glowing reviews, isn't it? Until then, what's your favorite makeup buy ever - the item that you cherish and can't live without out? Since I made you listen to mine for ages, now it's your turn!