Filomena Kaguako, Author at Enhance What's Yours - Page 13 of 28Enhance What's Yours

Posted on January 7, 2016

December favourites!!!

I hope you all had a lovely Christmas and a fab New Years – I’m nearly certain I forgot to say it in my last blog post, sorry! But like always, I’ve been drooling over a couple of new products over the past few weeks and I just can’t help but share them with you guys! So here is a roundup of my ultimate December faves, I hope you’re ready 🙂

The Balm Nude’tude palette, €35.00, Debenhams

Love, love, love! Buy, buy, buy! Now, now, now!!! And just in case you didn’t get the message…..love it! buy it! NOW! This Balm Nude’tude palette has become one of my staple eyeshadow palettes in the last few weeks. It is a mix of matte and shimmer shades so you can use it during the day or at night. I’m not big into my shimmers, but I find that the shimmer colours in this paletter aren’t OTT. They are reasonably pigmented, extremely buildable and also long wearing. While I didn’t find the brush very useful, I do love the big compact mirror!

Sephora Lip Pencil in Deep Aubergine, $6, Sephora.com

This mini lip liner is by far one of my favourite lip pencils at the moment. For starters, I think the colour really compliments my skin tone, and it is super pigmented so you don’t need to use a lot of it to get the colour on. I normally use it over my entire lip and find that it glides on so easily, but leaves a semi-matte finish. It lasts the whole day in work and the only time I ever need to retouch is after having lunch! Worth every penny and it won’t even break the bank!

Eucerin Dermo PURIFYER Hydrating Care, €11.17, HICKEY’S

I started using the Eucerin Dermo PURIFYER Cleanser a couple of weeks ago and couldn’t get over how amazingly well it worked on my skin. Because of my praise-worthy results (yes, they were praise-worthy), I decided to branch out and try out a few other products in this range. This oil free moisturiser is light, absorbs in quickly and leaves the skin with a mattified finish. It works really well under makeup as it is very smooth on the skin. I’d advise using it with the Eucerin Dermo PURIFYER Cleanser for better results!

Clarisonic, Mia 2, €149, Debenhams

If you’re big into your skincare, then this is definitely a beauty must-have! The Clarisonic Mia 2 has been in the market for quite some time now and there have been so many replicas of it. But to be quite frank, there’s no replacing it, especially since the cleansing system is patented! It has over 300 movements per second to leave your skin squeaky clean. It helps get rid of dirt, makeup and excess sebum, leaving the skin feeling smoother and healthier. I experienced a small breakout when I first used it, which was basically my skin purging and getting all the bad stuff out! Really looking forward to seeing what my skin is like in the next few months to do a full review!

Buffalo, Riviera new red patent, €125, Buffalo

‘Give a girl the right shoes and she will conquer the world,’ these words definitely hold true when it comes to these little guys! I wore them for the first time on NYE and I lasted all night! A lot of people get thrown off by the height of high heels, but being the shoe expert that I am, I say it’s all about the structure and material of the shoe! The cushioned soles and leather lining in the Rivieras will ensure you have a comfortable night, as they did with me! I’m obsessed with the red patent, but they also come in 11 other colours! check Buffalo out in Arnotts and see for yourself!

What have you been obsessing over in the last few weeks! Would love to know!

Hope you enjoyed this post and thanks again for all the positive feedback on my celibacy article! I have some very exciting and hopefully, NON-CONTRIVERSIAL topics I will be blogging about soon! #WatchThisSpace 🙂

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Posted on January 2, 2016

Celibacy: One year on

Uncovered

This time last week, I was absolutely dreading writing this article, let alone actually publishing it. But after having received one of the most heart-warming gifts by a very good friend of mine, of a framed certificate to congratulate me on completing 12 months of celibacy, I took it as a sign from the universe that I needed to go live with this.

I think the path of celibacy is something people should be made aware of. And I most definitely think that it is a topic that needs to be discussed by today’s generation. If you think about it, sex is too easy to talk about. Let’s face it, it’s absolutely everywhere. Having sex with ‘zero commitments’ has become so common that we have come to a stage where relationships have lost any sort of meaning, never mind the act of actually making love – excuse me if that’s no longer a socially acceptable term to use.

Since sex is so easily available, and people are just randomly jumping into bed with strangers, the thought of willingly giving up sex just seems absurd to the Netflix and Chill generation. Actually, it is unheard of.

So when I told some of my friends that I had decided to take a vow of celibacy for a full year, most of them laughed in my face. Some of them even questioned if I were gay. To them, it seemed like an impossible task, some would even say self-punishment.

I mean why in the good name of God would anybody want to voluntarily deprive themselves of sex for a full year? Who in the right mind decides they want to be sexless for a full 365 days? I’d love to tell you that the answer to that is a broken-hearted girl and just call it a day. But to be honest, it was a lot more than that. It was a mixture of emotions and a mountain of issues piling up one after the other.

For starters, I was just out of a relationship (if I could even call it that), which made me jump on the ‘All men are %$$holes bandwagon’. It was an absolute rollercoaster of many highs, but a lot more lows. My love and sex life took a pivotal turn after it. Enough was enough.

I had gotten come to a point in my life where I finally realised I deserved so much better. I realised I had been giving my body to men who were not truly worthy of it.To men who charmed the pants off me (literally) and then poof! Off they were.

I’m not saying that I was ever wreckless with sex. But I will admit that I went into the majority of my sexual relationships with both eyes closed. Up until now, I was absolutely blind. Blind of the emotional consequences, the mental consequences and everything else that comes with sharing your body with another soul. So this time last year I made the conscious decision to go celibate for a full year.

To say it was difficult, is an understatement. During my ‘dry spell’, nature’s monthly visits were definitely a lot harder to handle. I was extraordinarily sentimental and often felt that nobody wanted me because my body wasn’t good enough when in fact it was my very own decision to become celibate.

However,the positives of taking on a life of celibacy definitely overweighed the negatives. I have learnt to value myself and my body without seeking sexual partners to that for me. I have learnt to set my own standards and not accept the standards which have been placed on me. But most importantly, I have learnt that I am worth waiting for.

I have always been a firm believer of making yourself happy first.I honestly think that the most important relationship we will ever have in this world is the relationship we have with ourselves. We are never going to get any closer to happiness by sharing our bodies with others- if anything, it does the exact opposite. Yet, there I was going against my so-called beliefs, making the same mistakes time after time.

A wise woman once told me that each person we have sex with leaves their energy with us and I think this statement holds so much truth. I would have never thought so years ago, but I do now. I am in no shape or form trying to force celibacy onto anyone, at the end of the day it is your body, not mine. I just feel that women (and man alike) should be made more aware of who they give their bodies to and contemplate whether or not these people are deserving of it.

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Posted on December 8, 2015

When to replace your makeup

maintenance/ Makeup

It’s funny how people jump so quickly to throw out foods that have past their due date, but when it comes to makeup products, they suddenly become hoarders and cling on to them as if these products were irreplaceable – something I know about all too well!

Believe it or not, the effect of using beauty products past their shelf life could be a lot more damaging than you’d think. For starters, expired products stop performing as well as they did when you first got them. But in more serious cases, they can cause irritations or infections.

Throwing out half-used makeup products can prove to be quite upsetting, but what would be even more upsetting is the eye infection you could get from using mascara that had been nesting under a pile of even older beauty products!

Here is a quick guideline for when you should start saying your goodbyes:

1. Mascara

When it comes to beauty products, mascara probably has one of the shortest shelf lives. Since the product is in a dark and wet environment, it is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Expired mascara stops going on smoothly and becomes chalky and dry. One of the best ways to extend your mascara’s shelf life is to twirl the wand at every use instead of pumping it, which increases the amount of air that gets in. Toss time: every three to four months.

2. Foundation

The more you dip your brush or finger into foundation, the higher the chances of bacterial growth and possible breakouts. Foundations that have reached their expiration date can change in colour and consistency, and go on unevenly leaving you with a streaky finish. To extend the life of your foundation, store it in a cool, dry place, away from the sunlight. Liquids can last from up to six months to a year, while powders can last up to two years.

3. Eyeliner

Like with mascara, bacteria can easily grow in the tube of liquid liners. Eye pencils on the other hand have a longer shelf life because they are constantly getting sharpened which forms a fresh and clean surface before each use. Toss liquid and gel liners after about three months and eye pencils can last for over a year.

4. Eyeshadow

Powder-based cosmetics have a longer shelf life because they lack water and are therefore less prone to contamination. Cream shadows on the other hand have a shorter life span and should be replaced at least once a year. If you happen to get water on pressed shadows(or any powder formulas for the matter) then they should be tossed after about six months!

5. Lipstick & Lip gloss

Most lipsticks last for up to a year, while long-wearing formulas have an even shorter life span. As a rule of thumb, once the texture of the lipstick changes and it no longer looks creamy on the lips and is difficult to apply, then it’s time to bite the dust! Lip gloss with a wand applicator can last for up to six months, while lip gloss in a squeeze tube can last for up to a year.

Other products like nail varnishes should be tossed after about a year or two, disposable makeup sponges should be used for no longer than a month and powder based blush or bronzer can last for up to two years!

Remember, these are just guidelines! If the consistency of your cream starts to change, your mascara becomes dry and clumpy before month four or your nail varnish starts to turn gooey, then you know what to do with them! 🙂

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November favourites!!!

product review

Is it just me, or did November just fly by? I can’t believe it is December already! The countdown has begun for the day we’ll all be stuffing our faces with roast turkey, creamy gravy and everything & anything that has even a pinch of cinnamon in it – that’s right, I’m an animal!

But enough about Christmas weight gain, today’s post is about a much brighter and positive topic: my ultimate beauty faves in November! Since my last monthly favourites got so much positive feedback, I’ve decided to round up yet another list of what I’ve been loving over the past few weeks – gotta love those lists!

Eucerin Dermo PURIFYER Cleanser 200ml,€11.17, HICKEY’S

Where have you been all my life? Like seriously!? I bought this cleanser a few weeks ago (yes, bloggers buy things sometimes) and I honestly can’t see myself going back to anything else. It is super gentle on the skin, yet very effective at removing dirt and oil. It is also non-comedogenic, meaning it is formulated not to cause blocked pores. I think it helps to add that the Eucerin Dermo PURIFYER Cleanser is effectively proven on patients with blemished or acne prone skin –safe to say that I can attest to that!

Balance Me Super Moisturising Hand Cream 100ml, €17, Debenhams

If there’s any feeling in the world that I just cannot handle, it is the feeling of dry hands. I am even known for it by my colleagues. In work, I leave lotion at handy to ensure that my skin is always soft to touch. Out of all the creams I have left in the till drawer, this hand cream is by far my favourite. The Balance Me Super Moisturising Hand Cream is super rich, super effective and super soothing – it’s all in the name really! The tiniest amount makes such a huge difference as it soothes even the driest patches. This rich, moisture-replenishing cream is also great for treating areas like elbows or knees! A definite must try in my books, especially since it’s a limited edition!

Infinity Cellulose Sponge, 2 for €1.99, Pharmacies

Okay, this might seem like an odd one because it isn’t exactly like any of the other two products I’ve mentioned so far, but nonetheless, I feel that they deserves just as much praise! I found that these little guys are brilliant for removing every trace of makeup. Along with a facial wash, a cellulose sponge can gently exfoliate the skin leaving it cleaner and fresher. They are naturally hypo allergenic meaning they are unlikely to cause a reaction. Lastly, they are cheap and cheerful, so if you’re anything like me, that’s enough of a reason for you to want to try one out!

Rituals Fortune Oil Sweet Orange & Cedar Wood 200ml, €8.50, Arnotts

I got this shower oil in a set a good few months ago, but only started using it recently (beauty blogger problems). I must admit, I am glad I started using this when I did, otherwise I would be completely unaware of how amazing this product is. Not to throw shade at any of the other products that came in the set, this oil is a real star in the range. It becomes a soft and silky foam once in contact with water and leaves a lingering smell on the skin after the bath. And as you know, I love my baths and I love anything the plays with my sense of smell! J’adore!

Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Skin Protectant Cream 50ml, €33, Arnotts

Last, and certainly not least, is my Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream. There’s no better time to use this legendary skincare product than now! With the cold weather creeping in, our hands, lips and skin are subjected to dryness. This stuff does absolute wonders to the skin as it keeps it protected from harsh weather conditions. Some like to use it to shape their brows, or soothe dry hands, but I like to use it on my lips, my cuticles and in between my fingers.

I hope you enjoyed reading my monthly favourites as much as I enjoyed using them – okay, maybe not that much! Have a fabulous first of December and fingers crossed you close the final chapter of this year with a bang! 🙂

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Posted on November 26, 2015

5 benefits of using saunas

health benefits

Some people get totally put off when they hear the word sauna. They associate it with half or fully naked people sweating together in a dark confined space – sorry for the visual image!

I personally think that there is nothing more unwinding than laying in the sauna, particularly, after a tough gym session. Not only does it help relieve my muscles, but it also gives me time to relax, contemplate my workout achievements and reward myself.

However, the benefits of using a sauna go way beyond muscle relief and relaxation. These are only part of the reason why I think people should use it more regularly. I’ve rounded up a list of some of the benefits that I have found from regular use of the sauna these past few weeks:

1, Relaxation

As I mentioned briefly, I like to use the sauna to reward myself after a strenuous workout. I find that sweating it out in hot air really does take my mind off any stress from the outside world. It helps my mind, body and soul (a touch of exaggeration) really get into relaxation mode!

2. Sounder sleep

This probably isn’t news to you, but it is much easier to fall asleep when our muscles are relaxed and free from any tension. The more relaxed your body is before and during sleep, the better quality of your sleep. I tend to use the sauna in the evening time because I find that the heat makes me sleepy!

3. Skin cleanse

There’s a reason why facial saunas were such a big hit back in the day. The heat of a sauna causes the pores to open so when you start sweating, it flushes out dirt, bacteria, oil and any other residue in the pores. After every use of the sauna my skin feels soft, moist and more youthful looking! It just gives you a natural glow!

4. Pain relief

I’m an absolute devil when it comes to doing post workout stretches. So much so, that it had started to take its toll on my knee joints. However, since I started using the sauna more regularly (and spending more time on my stretches) the pain has slowly started to subside. Generally, the heat of a sauna helps loosen muscles and to prevent soreness and ease achy joints!

5. Bye bye calories

Since the heat from a sauna produces an effect that is similar to what happens when we exercise (increased heart rate), using the sauna can burn additional calories. Of course, sauna usage alone will not help you achieve your weight loss goals – only diet and exercise can do that. But because heart rate increases by a good amount, it can help the body burn calories better throughout the day!

Using the sauna is also said to help with detoxification in the body, building a stronger immune system and improving blood circulation. I have yet to experience these changes in my body, but my changes so far are enough for me to want to continue using it on a regular basis and encourage others to do the same!

Top tips for sauna use:

Newbies should start with five to ten minutes until a tolerance for heat is built.
Take a break if you feel dizzy or faint – very important!
Be sure to rehydrate during and after sauna usage.

If you suffer from extreme blood pressure or any other major health issues, then of course, consulting a doctor before sauna usage is a must. But if not, then sweat away! 🙂

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Posted on November 23, 2015

Win!!! SOSU Christmas Gel Polishes!!!

win

The winner is simmybellenails!!!!! Please check your Instagram messages to see how you can claim your prize! Thank you all for entering, keep an eye out for the next one! x

With Christmas just around the corner, I’ve decided to do a giveaway for one of my much-loved readers. As you probably already know, I fell in love with the SOSU Autumn/Winter colours a few months back. And since I have a tendency to force my obsessions onto others (the perks of being a passionate person), I have decided to gift one of you guys with the newest SOSU gel polishes!

From left to right: Base Coat, Poison Apple, Rudolf’s Mistress, The Glass Slipper, Quick Dry Top Coat

These glittery colours are going to add an extra bit of sparkle to someone’s Christmas this year! If that winner happens to be you, then here are Suzanne’s top tips for getting the most out of your SOSU polishes:

Make sure the nails are shaped, filed and buffed before applying any polish. Then apply one thin layer of SOSU base coat, two thin layers of a SOSU colour of your choice followed by a thin layer of SOSU top coat, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next! The formulations in the SOSU base and top coat helps to protect the nails and also forms the gel-like, non chip finish which means the polish can last for up to 4-7 days before having to reapply.

~~To be in the chance of winning this prize, you must do all of the following things:~~

Subscribe to Enhance What’s Yours
~~Follow me on Twitter and Instagram~~
~~Like my Facebook page~~

~~You can retweet and repost as much as you’d like! There are no limits at all! Good luck gals 🙂~~

Terms & Conditions:

You must be a resident of Ireland. If you are under 18, you must consent from your parents to enter the giveaway as the winners will be required to give me their address in order to have their prize sent out to them. There will be one winner. This person will have 24 hours to claim their prize, otherwise another winner will be chosen in their place. Giveaway ends on 15^th December at 10pm

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Posted on November 17, 2015

5 ways to make your workouts fun

fitness/ Health/ lifestyle

I often get asked how I find the motivation to get up at 6 o’clock in the morning, get into my workout gear, drive all the way to the gym for a morning session, and then carry on with the rest of my working day. Now putting aside the fact that I am a bit of a crazy person (aren’t we all), I think one of the main reasons I am able to find such motivation is because I know how to make my workouts a bit more enjoyable.

Naturally, I’m the type of person who easily gets bored. Be it a job, a hobby, people – yes, people. I just get sick of things very easily. That’s why switching things up in the gym is a must for me. Now by no means do you have to be a gym member to make exercise more fun, all it comes down to is being creative with your workouts!

So now that you have the back story, here are my top tips for making exercise feel less like a chore:

1. A killer playlist

Music, music, music. MUSIC. I really can’t stress it enough! A kickass playlist – excuse my French – will keep you going throughout your workout. A good techno remix does the job for me, but some people might like to listen to their favourite artist – whatever works for you! Just try not to get too carried away because you might just find yourself doing the Single Ladies dance in the middle of your workout!

2. Join a class

Some people hate dancing, but absolutely love swimming. Others can’t stand both but enjoy boxing. The point is, there is something out there for everyone. Once you find a class that doesn’t seem like a drag to go to, then you’re half way to becoming a #FitnessFanatic! My advice is to try everything at least once, because you never know what might work for you. I tried a Boxfit class recently and loved it!

3. Have a plus one

By nature, we are social creatures. So partnering up with a friend is always a good way of making exercise more pleasant. Not only does it make you look forward to your (super fun) workout, but the chances of you sticking to your exercise plan are much higher when you have someone to exercise with. Also, there’s always a bit of comfort in seeing your bestie struggle with burpees as badly as you – very fun indeed!

4. Set a target

Setting a target before your workouts can add a game element to them. If you set a goal, you will have something to strive for and as you will soon come to learn, there is nothing more rewarding than being able to push past your limits (or what you thought were your limits). What makes setting targets fun is the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel afterwards. Not sold? Try it!

5. YouTube

And for the times I don’t wake up at crazy hours to go to the gym……YouTube of course! I genuinely don’t think being a gym member is a must if you want to keep fit. Obviously if you have other fitness goals, then you’d need to lift a bit more than the 2kg dumbbells you have at home! But if exercise is just a means of staying healthy, then YouTube is the name of the game! Because there are so many fitness channels, it is near impossible to get bored! Some of my favourite channels are Blogilates, Tone It Up and Fitness Blender!

If you want more tips or tricks for making workouts more bearable, feel free to add me on Snapchat @FilomenaKaguako 🙂

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Posted on November 13, 2015

Feel So Good with The Body Shop’s Seasonal Range

product review

As you’ve probably guessed at this stage, I’m a complete junkie when it comes to The Body Shop. I think a lot of it has to do with the fact that I’m a big lover of taking soothing baths and I’m absolutely drawn to everything and anything that entices my sense of smell – the one thing The Body Shop never fails at!

So when I got the opportunity to attend The Body Shop’s Feel So Good Christmas event and take some products home with me, my anticipation to relax in my tub went sky high. If you’re big into your baths then you would understand the difficulty I had in containing my excitement. The Body Shop’s NEW seasonal range includes body butters, bath frizzers, scented candles and more!

The Frosted Plum range has just about everything you need to turn your Christmas into a magical one. With notes of ripe plum, magnolia and peony, this special collection is for those who want an indulgent and fruitful bath experience. Of the products I tried and tested, these are by far my top three faves:

Frosted Plum Shimmer Lotion 250ml, £8.00

This lightweight shimmer lotion leaves a lovely sparkle on the skin after application. I used it almost immediately when I got home from the event! Due to my dark skin tone, I found that a little bit really does go a long way with this product. I recommend using this shimmer lotion on the legs before a festive night out. The sparkle will highlight your legs, which will really elongate them – hello VS model legs!

Frosted Plum Shimmer Mist, 100ml, £8.50

Love, Love, LOVE!!! This globe shaped shimmer mist has a very unique fruity and floral scent. It leaves a subtle sparkle on the skin, which means you can use it during the day without looking too shimmery. It lightly fragrances the skin and leaves your body with a fresh feeling – you can’t go wrong!

Frosted Plum Candle, £10.00

The cherry on top of any luxurious bath is a scented candle. Like the rest of the Frosted Plum range, the Frosted Plum candle has a fruity fragrance with notes of ripe plum, magnolia and peony. It really adds to the pamper experience because the aroma of the candle just fills the room up – talk about getting the full package!

These three guys are my absolute faves in this collection and I’m dying to try the Frosted Plum Lip Balm – what doesn’t thing collection have, right!?

If you’ve tried any of the products from the NEW Frosted Plum range do let me know, so we can share our pampering experiences! If not, then get shopping ladies! I think it helps to add that The Body Shop has teamed up with Water Aid to help provide families in Ethiopia with drinkable water. With every specially selected gift bought this Christmas, a family in East Africa gets access to safe drinking water.

Have you done your good deed for the day? 🙂

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New beauty range alert!!! The Body Shop Oils Of Life & Spa Of The World
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Yesterday evening saw the launch of two new ranges from The Body Shop: Oils Of Life, a skincare range which uses natural seed oils to revive, replenish & revitalise the skin, and Spa Of The World, a collection of pampering-session products which were created using naturally sourced ingredients from different…
The New Voyage Collection from The Body Shop
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If you’re a fan of The Body Shop, then you will be very happy to hear that their New Voyage collection will be on the shelves and ready to make their way to your comforting homes, by the end of this week – let the countdown begin! With best-selling products…
October favourites!!!
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I don’t normally do monthly favourites, but I just found that over the past month I’ve fallen in love with a couple of products that I think deserve a few minutes of fame! If you follow me on Snapchat (@FilomenaKaguako) then you might recognise one or two of the little…

Posted on November 4, 2015

October favourites!!!

product review

I don’t normally do monthly favourites, but I just found that over the past month I’ve fallen in love with a couple of products that I think deserve a few minutes of fame! If you follow me on Snapchat (@FilomenaKaguako) then you might recognise one or two of the little gems I plan to talk about today. If not, here’s a roundup of the beauty and makeup products I’ve been drooling over in the past few weeks.

Urban Decay Naked Smoky Palette, €46.00, Debenhams

Surprise, surprise….. not. I carry this little gem with me almost everywhere! Being a smokey eye palette, naturally, most of the shades are quite dark. However, there are a few lighter ones that I use during the day. I found these shadows to be super pigmented and with the Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion, they could last a day and a half! The quality of the double-ended eyeshadow brush really helps give you the full effect of a smokey eye and ensures that you aren’t left with any unwanted creases because as you know, when it comes to achieving a strong smokey eye look, you have to blend blend blend!

The Body Shop African Ximenia Scrub, €30.50, The Body Shop

I’m just so predictable, aren’t I? I featured this product as my product of my month because when I first started using it, I literally used it every day without fail – don’t judge me, I’m just an obsessive! Thankfully, it is a super moisturising body scrub that isn’t harsh on the skin at all. It smells absolutely divine and just makes you feel like you’re giving yourself a luxurious pampering experience at home! Definitely a must try in my books, find the full review here.

Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray, €29.00, Debenhams

This Urban Decay product was another one of my must-haves last month. I tend to have quite oily skin, so if I don’t use a primer before my makeup and a setting spray after, then I just end up looking like a hot mess! I found this particularly good for night outs because it prevents your makeup from melting or fading. I don’t wear a full face of makeup every day, but if you’re someone who does, then I’d highly recommend using a setting spray. This one in particular is oil-free, and said to last for up to 16 hours!

SOSU Gel Polish She Means Business, €7.99, SOSU

You know the way we all have that one product that we have to hide from our loved ones because we’re afraid they might use it all? Well, for me, this is she! She Means Business is by far the most drool-worthy nail polishes I set eyes on last month. The warm magenta tone is feminine, strong and eye-catching. I tried this out along with the SOSU top coat and another SOSU autumn colour called Death by Chocolate. Find the full review here.

Vaseline Spray & Go, €6.49, Boots

Some would argue that because the texture of this moisturiser is so light, it is more of a summer product. I do think this is true for the most part, but because I don’t suffer from dry skin, I can get away with using it in colder temperatures. The nozzle and spray packaging makes it super handy to have as a moisturiser and I think it does exactly what it says on the tin, it ‘moisturises in seconds.’ I find it great for when I’m rushing out the door and want to get the job done in the quickest time possible. The cocoa butter smell is breath-taking,and it also comes in pure oat and fresh aloe!

So there you have it, my secret pleasures from the last couple of weeks! If you’ve tried any of the above, do let me know in the comment section below! 🙂

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SOSU by Suzanne Jackson AW15 Collection
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If you follow me on Snapchat, then you would know that I was recently sent a few nail varnishes from the latest SOSU gel polish range.I couldn’t wait to try them out because a lot of the colours from the new Autumn/Winter Collection are warm, bold, glistening and everything in between!…
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There’s nothing worse than setting your eyes on a new lippy, falling in love with it and then realising that it is way over your normal lipstick budget. ‘Steal or splurge?’ is the question I find myself asking when I’m trying to decide how badly I really need –or want…
The Body Shop: African Ximenia Scrub
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Summer might be well over, but that doesn’t mean we should stop pampering ourselves. If you know me at all, then you would know that I enjoy a relaxing bath: I play some soft music in the background, light up a few scented candles and just enjoy the moment. I…

Posted on November 3, 2015

5 health shots that are good for your body

Health/ health benefits

I always find that health shots are great for a quick pick-me- up. Being a non-coffee drinker and a complete energy drink foe, I have to find other ways to give myself an energy boost. Spirulina shots are usually my go-to, but recently I have been experimenting with a few others which are quite beneficial too.

Here are some shots you might want to try for either giving your body a little detox (hangover day), giving your immune system a boost (flu season) or simply because a shot of tequila on a Tuesday afternoon just doesn’t sound quite right……

1. Lemon, Ginger & Cayenne

When you mix a cleansing food (lemon) with a nausea relieving food (ginger) and an inflammatory reducing spice(cayenne), beautiful things happen! This trio is a classic juice shot that is thought to help give the metabolism an aul boost. The combination of these three ingredients makes for a rejuvenating shot that can help reduce inflammation and bloating too.

Directions: Mix the juice of ½ a lemon with an inch of fresh ginger. Add a dash of cayenne pepper and take as a shot.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

A shot of straight ACV is definitely the easiest option of the five – well, as far as making the shot goes anyways! ACV isn’t exactly the easiest thing to stomach, and I salute anyone who is able to take it without puckering. Regular shots of ACV help improve digestion, and it is also said to help improve the texture of the skin. If you’re only starting off, it’s a good idea to mix the ACV with water.

Directions: Mix half a shot glass of ACV with water and toss back. Don’t forget to breathe!

3. Beetroot

I love my homemade beetroot juice so it really is no surprise that I had to throw it in with these other health shots. A shot of beet juice can help improve stamina, so it would make for a great pre-workout shot. Beets also have anti-inflammatory properties that help combat premature aging. Instead of making a single shot of beet, I would suggest making a full glass and taking it in shots as regularly as you need.

Directions: Find my homemade beet juice recipe here.

4. Matcha

Matcha is a concentrated form of green tea and as you probably already know, green tea is loaded with antioxidants that can give benefit the body in more ways than just one. However, when you drink green tea, you are only drinking an infusion which means a lot of the health benefits are reduced. When you consume matcha, you consume the full leaf, meaning you get the full benefits. It helps with blood sugar regulation, reducing blood pressure, and most importantly, anti-aging (I don’t sound beauty obsessed at all!)

Directions: Mix 120ml of water with 1 tsp on matcha power in a glass to dissolve the powder. Pour into two shot glasses. One for now, one for later 🙂

5. Spirulina

A lot of people automatically think of chicken, eggs and fish when it comes to protein, but spirulina is actually one of nature’s richest protein sources. It is a blue-green algae found in fresh waters that is a complete protein, meaning it has all the essential amino acids we need to live. It is a natural detoxifier that helps boost the immune system and promote healthy digestion. I usually take this once a week.

Directions: Mix ½ tsp of spirulina powder with water in a shot glass and knock it back!

As well as the many other benefits that can come from taking these shots, they will give you the buzz without a crash! So instead of going for an energy drink the next time you need a quick boost, why not try one of these? Your body will love you for it! 🙂

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Turmeric anti-inflammatory juice
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If you tried and liked my ginger and carrot juice recipe, then there’s no doubt you’ll like this one too. This anti-inflammatory juice does absolute wonders when it comes to boosting your immune system and supporting your health – lord knows we need it around this time of year! Each…
2-ingredient juice cleanse recipe
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I have recently become obsessed with beetroot. I know, it’s a weird obsession to have, but I suppose it could be a lot worse. Beetroots are well-known for helping the whole detoxification process. They help purify your blood and your liver, so if you're on a juice cleanse or if…
5 drinks every ‘dieter’ should try
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I'll be honest, I've never been big into dieting. I don't even like using the word 'diet.' I just think that moderation is key when it comes to healthy eating or weight management, and that nobody should ever deprive their body of what it needs. So if you want to…
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I’m no professional when it comes to juicing. However, I do feel that I’ve been juicing for long enough to know that freshly made juice tastes better when consumed within 20 minutes, the juicing strainer can be an absolute pain to clean after using carrots, and some fruit and vegetables…
Tags: juice
Teatox: 6 things I liked about Yo Tea
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I can already sense some of you diehard fitness fanatics judging me as I write this. But before you start going on a rampage about how much you dislike the idea of teatoxing, do hear me out. I was in no shape or form trying to lose a ton of…
Tags: tea, green

Posted on October 27, 2015

The truth about carbs

Health

A low-carb diet has never been my thing. I have always been a firm believer that all foods should be consumed in moderation. That’s why I continue to be baffled by those who are constantly carb-counting or totting up their calories half-way through the day. In my eyes, carbs are not the enemy.

What a lot of people don’t realise is that there is absolutely nothing wrong with carbohydrates. Provided you eat the right ones and in the right quantities, carbs are needed for our brain and body to function normally. And I’m not just saying this because I am a carb addict – or bread addict – to be precise. I’m saying this because I have made a recent discovery that I’m going to share with you.

The human saliva contains an enzyme which helps breakdown starch into sugars. This means that biologically, we are supposed to eat carbohydrates – Mother Nature wants this for us people! It just comes down to whether we eat the right ones or not.

There are two types of carbohydrates: complex carbs (the good) and simple carbs (not so good). Complex carbs take time to digest. These include whole and unrefined grains, fibre and vegetables. Simple carbs on the other hand, provide the body with a quick burst of energy. These include refined starches and sugars added during food processing.

Good carbs

Unrefined grains

Unrefined grain products like brown rice, whole-grain pasta, beans, whole wheat bread, buckwheat, oats etc are considered to be good carbs. They are rich in vitamins, minerals and fibre, which are all essential to your health. Because they are slowly digested, they cause a slower change in blood sugar levels.

Fibre

Fibre is a good carb that isn’t digested by our body. However, it is needed for intestinal health as it aids with digestion and ensuring that damaging toxins are excreted from the body. Foods high in fibre include leafy greens such as broccoli, beans, lentils, apples and pears.

Not so good carbs

Refined starches

White-flour breads, pasta and rice. Crackers, biscuits and other baked packaged foods are all considered as refined carbs. The bran, hull and fibre are removed from the grain during the refinement process meaning they contain little to no fibre and a lot of minerals and nutrients are lost.

Refined sugars

Refined sugars are probably one of the worst things you can feed your body with. These include sucrose, lactose, molasses and fruit juice concentrates. High level of sugar consumption can lead to extreme fluctuations in energy, more sugar cravings and mood swings.

In a nutshell: good carbs take time to digest in the body and as a result, you stay fuller for longer. They include whole-grain foods and vegetables. Bad carbs give you a sudden burst of energy and as a result cause a fluctuation in blood sugar levels. They include sweets and refined starches.

So before you unfairly black-list some carb-loaded foods, ask yourself this: is it a good carb or not? 🙂

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7 reasons your ‘diet’ isn’t working
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There’s nothing more annoying than spending so much time in the gym, doing calorie counts at a restaurant, avoiding all your favourite snacks and still seeing no results. Despite all your efforts and ability to maintain will-power for so long, the number on the scale doesn’t seem to want to…
Food cravings: What your body is trying to tell you
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Let’s face it, it’s pretty hard to eat clean 100% of the time. With tempting adverts all over the media and friends and family who practically make it their job to have you drooling all over and wanting a slice of your favourite dessert, you can easily fall off track.…

Posted on October 19, 2015

The Body Shop: African Ximenia Scrub

product review

Summer might be well over, but that doesn’t mean we should stop pampering ourselves. If you know me at all, then you would know that I enjoy a relaxing bath: I play some soft music in the background, light up a few scented candles and just enjoy the moment.

I used to think I had everything I needed to loosen up and enjoy some ‘me’ time. Then, I was introduced to a product which to some extent, made me question whether I’ve been doing it wrong all along: The African Ximenia Scrub.

This product is from The Body Shop’s Spa Of The World collection which launched back in August. The range itself features pampering-session products such as body oils and clays, which were created using naturally sourced ingredients from around the globe.

As the name suggests, the African Ximenia Scrub, was developed using handpicked ximenia fruit seeds from the ‘Tree of Life’ in Namibia. These seeds create a rich oil, which in this case, helps your skin feel softer and smoother after exfoliation.

What I particularly liked about this scrub is the texture of it. It has a luxurious velvety texture that feels soft and silky on the skin. A lot of body scrubs that I have tried in that past were pretty rough on the skin and this can be quite irritating at times. The African Ximenia Scrub does the exact opposite.

Although this scrub is gentle on the skin, it still does an amazing job at removing dead skin cells and making your body feel lovely and sleek. The scent of the African Ximenia Scrub has a lingering effect on the skin, even after drying up. In my books, this is always a bonus because in some subconscious way, it helps keeps you in relaxation mode! 🙂

This scrub is part of The Body Shop’s 5-step relaxing ritual and is available to purchase online or in The Body Shop at €30.50(320ml). Thanks again to the Revolve girls for sending this out to me!

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Ziaja Cocoa Butter Creamy Shower Soap & Body Scrub
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Last Thursday, I attended the 25th Anniversary of Ziaja Skincare in Cleary’s Pharmacy, Talbot Street Dublin. Emma of Mastering Your Makeup hosted the event, and gave us a quick talk-through of some of the Ziaja products as well as an opportunity to test out the body butters. Throughout the event,…
Tags: body, scrub, product, skin
Skincare glossary: what do these popular beauty terms really mean?
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We're often told to go for products with certain ingredients. If you dry skin, you're told to go for a moisturiser with an emollient and if you're at the other end of the spectrum and have oily skin, then a cleanser with salicylic acid is your winning ticket. But what…
Tags: skin

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