L'Oreal Ever Riche Nourishing & Flowing Review

I find it really hard to discover shampoo and conditioner that doesn't aggravate my scalp. At one point, the only brand I could even attempt to use was Head & Shoulders which is possibly the least glamorous hair brand ever. Yes, it cleaned my hair which is the main purpose, yet nowadays hair products do and offer so much more than that. Since my hair has become a little more resilient to other brands, I've been using the TRESemme brand. I love all their shampoos and conditioners with my favourite being the salon silk line - they not only clean my hair but make it super soft and manageable for styling. Recently I have read so many reviews on the L'Oreal hair care line. I have never tried L'Oreal haircare, but as a huge fan of their skincare and makeup I thought I'd give the most blogged about L'Oreal Ever Riche a whirl.

So far I am really loving both the shampoo and conditioner. First of all I must address the scent. To me they both smell like vanilla with hints of macadamia and I absolutely love it. They are definitely the best smelling hair care products I have tried. Out of the different versions I opted for the "nourishing and flowing" duo and I am super happy with my choice. Not only do they make my hair feeling super soft to the touch but also tame a lot of the frizz I struggle with as well as making it easier for me to straighten and style in the morning. Thankfully they haven't aggravated my scalp so far *touch wood*!

Overall if you're looking for an affordable shampoo and conditioner that actually works, give the L'Oreal offerings a go. Both are normally £5.99, but you can always find them in special 3 for 2 offers! xo

Batiste XXL Plumping Powder Review

Batiste are a really good, affordable haircare brand that are most known for their vast array of dry shampoos. I am a fan of the dry shampoos, especially the cherry one, so when I saw the Batiste Dry Styling XXL Plumping Powder I was excited to try.

It looks and dispenses out of the container like talcum powder. I have really dark brown hair and the white powder does look like dandruff when you first apply (ew) but once you work it in the roots it soon disappears. 

The product claims to create an "instant amplified effect"and give volume without needing to backcomb. It definitely does create volume around the roots, but it does look better when you backcomb as well. Fortunately, you don't need to backcomb as much which is good as it's really bad for your hair! Yet adding a little of the powder after you backcomb enhances the volume, makes it lasts longer and also lessens the need of hairspray. A little goes a really long way so it's really great value for money in the long run.

The only thing I don't like about it is how sticky the powder goes when you work it in the hair. Just make sure you have a makeup wipe on hand to get it off - yep, that sticky. It doesn't feel sticky in your hair which is the main thing.

It's fairly new as I haven't seen many reviews of it yet. As of now it's £2.99 as an introductory price but will be £3.99 in August, not that much of a difference but still. I definitely recommend this product if you like big hair and want it to last all day, you can't go wrong really! Get it here. Xoxo

Empties! #1

It literally took me 5 minutes to find out where the hashtag was on my Mac. And I've had this thing for nearly two years (alt+3 if you're wondering!)

Anyway, I thought I'd started doing empties posts as I go through periods where it seems like I'm finishing everything up. So here are the most recent products I've finished up:

Kerastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique, Blistex Intensive Moisturiser, Rimmel Scandaleyes mascara, Macadama Healing Oil Treatment, Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray

Hair products tend to last me age as I don't use much and I don't use them everyday. The Kerastase Nectar Thermique is amazing for people who blow-dry/curl/straighten their hair as it works as a heat protectant. It's a cream product that you apply to damp hair before drying and just works wonders. It tames frizz and flyways, great for humidity and protects against heat. Not repurchased yet.

Another hair product I've finished is the Macadamia Healing Oil Treatment. It's much more lightweight and overall better than Moroccan Oil. Already repurchased.

Rimmel Scandaleyes is one of my fave mascaras. Creates length and volume and you can make it as clumpy as you want (which I love). It's cheap and is available in waterproof as well. Already repurchased.

I've just finished up another tube of Blistex Intensive Moisturiser and, to be honest, I don't like it! "Why another tube then?!" Well it's just really good!! Lemme explain. The texture and consistency and smell is disgusting and feels weird on. But, used overnight, you soon forget and it works wonders at moisturising your lips.

Something I need to repurchase asap is the full size of the Urban Decay All-Nighter Setting Spray (especially because we're in summer!) It works really well for keeping makeup put all day and I think is essential for the warmer months.

MAC Brush Cleanser, Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturising Gel, Clean & Clear Deep Cleansing Lotion, Garnier Fresh Essentials Eye Make-up Remover, Mario Badescu Control Cream

More boring empties so I'll quickly go through these.

• MAC Brush Cleanser - a must-have to spot clean your brushes. It works well and dries fairly quickly. It doesn't seem to last long though; I've already been through 3 this year.
• Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturising Gel - review/haul here
• Mario Badescu Control Cream - one of the best skincare products I've used. This is perfect for controlling redness and breakouts. I can't seem to find it anywhere anymore (I used to buy it off BeautyBay yet it's always out of stock.)
• Clean & Clear Deep Cleansing Lotion - really good for deep cleaning the skin after cleansing morning and evening. I do however think I've found an even better alternative in the L'Oreal Skin Perfection Miscellar Water!
• Garnier Fresh Essentials Eye Make-Up Remover - nothing special but does remove most traces of eye make up (tricky on liner though!)

So they're my recent empties! I'll do another one of these once I have accumulated some more interesting products. I think these are a good idea as you can review each product briefly.

Have a great weekend and I hope your enjoying this beaut weather we're having! Xoxo

*This is my last post until July 18th*

Products mentioned:

Kerastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique, buy

Blistex Intensive Moisturiser, buy

Rimmel Scandaleyes Mascara, buy

Macadamia Healing Oil Treatment*, buy

Urban Decay All-Nighter Setting Spray, buy

MAC Brush Cleanser, buy

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturising Gel*, buy

Mario Badescu Control Cream (can't find online)

Clean & Clear Deep Cleansing Lotion, buy

Garnier Fresh Essentials Eye Make-Up Remover*, buy

Pre-Holiday Boots Haul

Recently I went to Boots to pick up some more stuff I needed for holiday. Like shampoo, conditioner, nail polish remover pads, travel pills etc etc. I managed to get everything however I got a little distracted and kinda went off in a tangent and bought some bits I didn't really need (minus the sun protection obvs!) So I thought I'd share with you my more exciting purchases.


L'oreal Paris Skin Perfection Miscellar Solution

A drugstore 'dupe' for Bioderma that is apparently super amazing so I needed to try it. I'm thinking of using this to take my makeup off on the plane and every night. [£4.99]

Real Techniques Expert Face Brush

No reason for this purchase other than the fact I love all of the other Real Techniques brushes. I love using new brushes anyway so I think I'll save this for when I'm away. [£9.99]

Barry M Hi Shine Gel Nail Paint in Papaya

I love their jelly nail polishes - amazing colour range, good quality and they seem to last ages without chipping and, for the price, I needed to get another. "Papaya" is a gorgeous neon coral/orange that will look uh-may-zing with a tan. [£3.99]

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipgloss in Kiss Me Coral and Snow Pink

It's sooooo hot in Dubai and wearing lipsticks is the last thing I want. These lipglosses are really nice and they have such an amazing colour selection. I picked up "Kiss Me Coral", which is a stunning vibrant shimmery coral, as I saw Tanya Burr use it in a tutorial who made it looked beaut and "Snow Pink" which is a lovely pink shimmery nude. [£6.99]

Batiste XXL Plumping Powder
I have never heard or seen about this product for so I'm seriously excited to try it. It's a loose powder that you work into the roots to create volume. The packaging is cute and it's cheap so I thought why not. [£3.99]

Garnier Skin Perfection BB Cream

To me, BB creams are pointless and don't do much skincare wise. However the reviews and hype over this product was insane, I had to try it. I got it in the shade light as I read the medium shade is really dark. I'll do a separate review once I've tried it out. [£9.99]

Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer

I've already owned this concealer before; it's extremely high coverage and conceals practically everything. [£4.19]

I swear by the Piz Buin sun protection range. You can get them with special tanning intensifying extracts to make your tan lasts even longer, or you can get it without. It's greattttt.


Have a great week! Xoxo

*Update: this is probably gonna be my last post before Dubai, I'm still gonna do my travel guide yet I'll do them after I'm back - most people go away late July/August anyway! I'll just have more time to take pics and write them instead of trying to fit them all in three days (I go the 10th of July) and rushing etc! Have an amazing summer you guyssssss!!! -Suzie*

Miracle Hair Products

Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum, Leo Bancroft Instantly Sleek, Macadamia Healing Oil Treatment, Kerastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique

These are my hair saviours, the products I cannot - repeat, cannot - live without. My hair type: long, normal with very dry ends, never been dyed, naturally straight yet unruly, I use heat on it everyday. My real hair is normally disguised by my extensions yet I still take really good care of it.

Up first is the Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum (£18) which is designed for people with straight hair who want to keep their hair straight whilst reducing frizz and fly aways. It's super lightweight, smells lovely and you only need to put a tiny bit on after towel drying your hair. It's lasted me forever and I'll defo repurchase.

Macadamia is one of my favourite hair brands, I love their deep repair mask and their shampoo and conditioners but the stand out product for me is the Macadamia Natural Oil Treatment (£6-£21). It works in the same way as the famous Moroccan Oil yet it's just so much better! It's way lighter on the hair and doesn't leave it greasy even if you put it on dry hair which is what I tend to do.

Another saviour is something I randomly picked up in Tesco and it is the Leo Bancroft Instantly Sleek Smoothing Serum (£4). I use this on the days where I straighten my hair as it keeps it dead straight all day. It's also really good for in humid weather as you don't get fly aways, and it's so cheap!

Lastly is probably my favourite - Kérastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique (roughly £18) as it does so many wonderful things: it protects hair from heat-styling tools and improves hair straightening and drying performance, it softens and moisturises hair and adds smoothness and shine. It's targeted towards people with dry to very dry hair and it works so well. I'd definitely repurchase this again and again despite the price.

I hope this was helpful

xx

Macadamia Healing Oil Treatment

Before discovering Macadamia Healing Oil Treatment, I was using Moroccan Oil religiously.

I used to use the Moroccan Oil when my hair was dry, just after straightening it as it helped it stay shiny and straight practically all day. However it left a sort of greasy feel afterwards which, at the time, didn't bother me because I liked the look so much. Yet as my hair got longer (near my belly button!) it felt like  it was weighing it down so much, so much so that I stopped using it.

The main reason why I prefer the Macadamia Healing Oil to Moroccan Oil is due to the fact it is light-weight and, especially if you have long hair, doesn't weigh it down. I do however feel I need to use a little more of this as it isn't as thick as Moroccan Oil, which in hindsight is a good thing.

I use the Macadamia Healing Oil everyday on dry hair and it's great. I've also started using the Moroccan Oil after I wash my hair when it's damp and it doesn't weigh it down at all. This is defo a must have hair treatment that I'll definitely repurchase. It's also cheaper than Morrocan Oil (£25.35 instead of £30.35).

Suzanna x

Best of 2012

I just wanna start of by saying happy new year!

My posts will lack during January because of my exams so I thought I would do a pretty extensive blog post reviewing all my favourite products (as well as books, movies and music favourites) of 2012 today. Links are added to reviews :)

Best eyeshadows (palette): Urban Decay Naked 2
Best mascara: Rimmel Volume Flash Scandal Eyes or Clinique High Impact
Best pencil liner: Avon Supershock or MAC Stubborn Brown or Rimmel Scandal Eyes in Nude
Best liquid liner: Maybelline Master Precise
Best eyeshadow base: MAC Paint Pots
Best eye lash glue: Revlon Precision Lash Adhesive
Best eyebrow product: Anastasia Brow Wiz in Medium Ash

I'm not a lip product fan, the only lip products I use are MAC lipsticks. My favourites, and most used, during 2012 have been: Myth or Hue or Honeylove or Sunny Seoul.

Best liquid foundation: Esteé Lauder Double Wear in Fresco and Desert Beige
Best powder foundation: NARS Powder Foundation in Fiji
Best primer: Smashbox Photofinish
Best concealer: Collection 2000 Lasting Perfection in Fair
Best bronzer: NARS Laguna
Best blush: Tarte Amazonian Clay Blush in Exposed
Best powder: MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural in Medium Plus

Best volumising product: TRESemmé Volume and Lift Mousse
Best dry shampoo: TRESemmé Instant Refresh
Best heat protector: TRESemmé Keratin Smooth
Best treatment: Moroccan Oil or Leo Bancroft Instant Sleek or Kerastase Nectar Thermique or Macadamia Oil
Best straightening balm: Redken Power Tame 16 or Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum

Best self tanner: St Moriz Mousse in Dark
Best face moisturiser: Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturising Gel
Best body moisturiser: Shea body butter from The Body Shop
Best hand cream: L'Occitane
Best universal cream: E45 or Sudocrem (not pictured)
Best acne/red skin treatment: Mario Badescu Control Cream

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Favourite books of the year

- The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

- Unwind by Neal Shusterman

- Holy Bible (ESV)

- The Dog Stars by Peter Heller

Favourite movies (and shows) of the year

- Project X

- Ted

- Sherlock, both series

Favourite albums of the year

- Born To Die: Paradise Edition by Lana Del Rey

- Take Me Home by One Direction

- Life is Elsewhere by Little Comets

- Babel by Mumford & Sons

- Channel Orange by Frank Ocean

- What's The Story (Morning Glory)? by Oasis

So thats all of my favourite things of 2012. I hope you had an amazing year and I hope that the new year brings you happiness and lots of laughs.

Suzanna xo

Leo Bancroft Instantly Sleek Smoothing Serum

Leo Bancroft Instantly Sleek Smoothing Serum, £4

Honestly, I've never heard of Leo Bancroft before. I randomly picked it up in Tesco and I am so glad I did. The "instantly sleek smoothing serum" is designed for frizzy hair to keep it under control. I don't have frizzy hair, but I do have little fly-aways - and I hate using hairspray so I thought I'd give this a whirl. And I love it. It's lightweight, you only need the tiniest amount, smells good and does what it's meant to do. Perfect.

I've just looked at their website and I've found that every single product Leo Bancroft sells is £4. Four freaking pounds, each. If I was you, I'd definitely check out their products, and at four quid each you can't go wrong with trying!

Suzanna xo

7 days until the world ends!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Oh and 11 days until Christmas, whatever.

Kérastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique Nourishing Care

Kérastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique Nourishing Care, 150ml

Buying new haircare products is always fun. I love trying new things out. Yet the products I normally try out are inexpensive so that, if I am not fond of it, I can just toss it and not care. I only ever buy 'high-end' hair products when I know I already like them, such as Moroccan Oil and the Philip Kingsley shampoo and conditioners. So this product was a splurge for me, and the reason why I decided to pick it up was because of an amazing review by Vivianna who has the same hair colour, type and length as me. I needed to try it.

At £16.10, the Kérastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique Nourishing Care isn't the cheapest of products. This is a leave-in treatment that is designed to provide nourishing care for dry to very dry hair. It also has heat-activated thermo-protective ingredients, so is perfect for someone like me who straightens every day. Due to the fact it's target at dry to very dry hair, it provides "supreme shine" from root to tip. The website also claims that "hair feels supple and is protected from mechanical aggressions" - hair straighteners, curlers, hairdryers etc. It also says it "facilitates blow-drying for a smoother and quicker finish".

So in Layman's terms, it makes dry hair soft, shiny whilst protecting it from heat.

...and I love it.

The application process (as seen above) is simple. Wash and condition your hair normally, towel dry, apply the product onto the lengths of the hair and then blow-dry.

I've said it before: I hate products that are leave-in or are applied to damp hair. The only exception I have is the Redken Straight Power Tame 16 and now, this.

As well as smelling gorgeous, it leaves the ends of my hair soft and shiny which is perfect considering I have dry hair. I can't say enough good things about this. Kérastase is a brand that is used in most hairdressers, which I presume is why my hair always looks God-damn amazing when I walk out of the salon. This product just adds to my collection of holy grail must-haves.

If you haven't tried it, you must, and if you have, what do you think?

Suzanna xoxo

Redken Straight Power Tame 16

I recently bought a few new haircare bits (see here) and one of the items I picked up was the Redken Straight Power Tame 16 which is marketed as an "intense straightening balm for coarse hair." Feel Unique, on their website, says that it "slims down coarse hair and helps to tame frizz and transform unruly textures, sealing in lasting smoothness and shine." What I also loved about the claim was that it "helps protect from heat damage" which is perfect for me as I straighten my hair every day.

Redken Straight Power Tame 16, 5fl/oz / 250ml

This is probably a biased review as I have only used it once, yet I know for sure that this is my new holy grail hair product. It hands down beats my Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum by a long shot and here's why.

Despite the fact it's a thick lotion, it is really light weight and disappears into the hair without leaving it greasy or sticky. It tames frizz dramatically - I didn't even have to use hairspray. The smell of the product is really pleasant and, to me, smells like fruit salad. My hair felt so much smoother than if I didn't use this product and also added the perfect amount of shine. It says to "apply to damp hair and blow dry" and, when I read this, I was a bit sceptical. Products that I apply whilst my hair is damp never seem to work well. For instance, Moroccan Oil doesn't work for me when my hair is damp yet is a miracle when my hair is dry. This product did work though, which I was very happy about.

However, I can vision this product running out soon. This is because I use a decent amount of product due to my hair length. Yet, one good thing is that I only wash my hair every other day so I hope I can make it last.

What are your thoughts on this product? Have you tried it?

Suzanna xoxo

Recent Purchases from Feel Unique

In my last post I mentioned about an order I placed with Feel Unique, one of my favourite online shopping websites. Today, the package arrived so I'm going to show with you what I got!

Yes To Tomatoes Clear Skin Facial Mask, Bare Minerals Touch Up Veil, Cosmopolitan Beauty Expert Face Brush, Kérastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique, Redken Power Tame 16, Joico Smooth Cure, Neals Yard Remedies Remedy to Roll, Wedla Wild Rose Eye Cream

The main reason for going on Feel Unique was to get some new haircare bits. Ever since Vivianna's review on the Kérastase Nutritive Nectar Thermique (£18.90), I knew I wanted to try it. She has the same type of hair as mine (long, thick, dry) therefore I hope that it works just as well as it does for her on me. I also picked up the Joico Smooth Cure (£11.95) travel set which includes a shampoo, conditioner and leave-in treatment. With high-end hair products I always get travel sizes or miniatures before investing in the large bottles, just to make sure I like them. The last hair product I bought was the Redken Power Tame 16 (£15.15) which is an intense straightening balm for those who want straight, non-frizzy, glossy hair. I have seen any reviews on this, so I'm excited to do my own.

I picked up two skincare items with the first being Yes To Tomatoes Clear Skin Facial Mask (£11.99). I've been using my Body Shop face mask for a long time so I decided to venture out and try a something from a brand I have never used before. It's organic and is therefore filled with properties that are good for your skin. I also bought the Welda Smoothing Eye Cream (£13.45) that says it softens fine lines, preserves the skin's youthful vitality and reduces puffiness. I'm excited to try this. The size of the tube is absolutely tiny - it only holds 10ml's of product which, for the price, isn't a lot. I'll tell you my thoughts and whether it's worth it when I review it properly.

The last three things I bought were random and last minute. I've heard good things about the Neal's Yard Remedies Remedies to Roll (£5.50) oils and heard that they are particularly good for long-haul flights. They have a range of different types such as relaxation travel, yet I decided to try the energy version. I picked up a boring old face brush by Cosmopolitan (£5.95) to use my Mario Badescu powder with. The last thing I bought was the bareMinerals Ready Touch Up Veil in Translucent (£22.00) which was definitely an impulse buy. I've nearly finished my Urban Decay De-Slick and, considering bareMinerals were having a sale, I decided to purchase it. 

I'm really happy with my purchases and, as always, expect individual reviews on each of them in the upcoming weeks!

Suzanna xoxo

Ps. The Vaccines just came out with the second studio album. I'm in love and I definitely recommend you should check them out, here.

Headmasters Colour Brilliance Miracle Moisture Mask

The only hairdressers I've ever been too in my life (aside from going to my auntie when I was a kid) has been Headmasters. It's affordable, professional, quick and simple - I enjoy going there. So when I found out that they were creating their own line of hair products, I knew I had to try them.

With prices ranging from £2.99 to £5.99 and with products such as shampoos, conditioners, masks, hairsprays, mouses and various hair creams, it is the perfect haircare line.

I decided to try the Colour Brilliance Miracle Moisture Mask which claims to provide "intense nourishment to help enhance colour and bring out multi-dimensional tones". This product can be used for those with dyed hair or without dyed hair. It also says that the "luxury conditioning formula penetrated deep into the hair for extreme hydration and long lasting softness".

There are two types of 'treatments' that you can use this product for. The first one is to apply the cream to damp, towel-dried hair and massaging it through the ends. Leave it in for 3 minutes before rinsing it out with warm water. Or, to get intense moisture treatment you can apply the mask then wrap it in a warm towel and leave for 5-10 minutes before rinsing it out. I opted for the second choice, the more intense one.

I found that it took much less time to blow-dry than normal and my hair so much softer than normal. Perhaps this is because I have such dry ends that I managed to notice a difference instantly. The product is slightly fragranced which is nice when you leave it on, but it disappears when you wash it off. I don't think that it does bring out dimensional tones like it claims, yet for £4.99 I think that claim was a bit too adventurous. I do like the texture of my hair after using it and will definitely continue to use it.

Suzanna xoxo

Ramblings!

♥ I've just placed an order with Feel Unique so I'll share the products with you in a haul as soon as I receive the package. I feel like I haven't hauled in ages!
♥ I can't believe it's already September! This year has gone so fast.
♥ Just bought the new The Vaccines album. I'm in love.

Gold Series ghd Max Styler and the Remington Pearl Wand Review

My friends were a bit confused when I told them I bought a straightener - not a usual conversation topic but my friend Vanisha is a huge beauty fan. I have naturally straight hair so I didn't think I needed to buy one. Yet my hair is extremely thick and no matter how many products I had tried to tame it down, nothing worked. Three months ago, just after I finished some exams, my dad said he'd treat me to a present: I asked for the Gold Series ghd Max Styler. There are three options: mini, classic and max. It's all personal preference really and I wanted the biggest one possible. I ordered it from the website and it came the next day with free delivery. I paid £120 for them but currently they are on sale for £99!

Put in this way, I haven't stopped using them since. I know it's bad to use heat in your hair everyday even if you use heat protectant, but I just love the way it looks. I don't use heat on my hair on the weekend, but I do during the week. The ghds are amazing. It takes roughly 15 minutes to straighten all of my hair. Now that might seem like a lot, but my previous straighteners would take me over half an hour and the results were never as good as they are with the ghds. They help tame down frizz and make your hair feel extremely light weight. Overall, if you have the money to splurge on a new hair styling tool, I would definitely recommend the ghd range. Perfection.

Two weeks ago I got bored of straight hair and just simply wanted a change. Therefore, the next day I went out about bought the Remington Pearl Wand for £24.99 in Boots. I had read some extremely good reviews and thought I would share my own opinion. Being someone who has never owned a curling iron before, I didn't have that high of expectations yet I did know I wanted something that latest and didn't take that long to provide results. This wand is perfect for those who want effortless curls that are really quick to do. It takes around 6 minutes for me to curl all of my hair. It doesn't weigh my hair down and, from my experience, seem to last all day. Definitely worth the money in my opinion.

I thought I would just end the post there, but then I decided to include some of my favourite hair care products. I have done one of these before, but I thought I would show some new favourites of mine!

Best heat protectant: TRESemmé Heat Defence

Best frizz controler: Moroccanoil

Best hairspray: LO'real Elnett and Wella Shockwaves (not pictured)

Best straightening serum: Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum

Xoxo

Moroccanoil aka the best hair product

Let me just start of this post by saying I do not know what I would do without this product in my life.

Seriously.


I was watching several YouTube videos a couple months ago and one of my favourite gurus, Bethany, mentioned that Moroccanoil did wonders for her hair. It's an expensive product, retailing at £30.45, so I didn't purchase the full 100ml size just incase I didn't like it. Instead I bought the small 25ml version to try it out.

What I love the most is that the 100ml comes with a pump! With the smaller version you have to tip it into your hands before applying which isn't very nice. I'm happy it came with a pump; even though the website didn't mention anything of the sort!

About the product: It's amazing. It tames your hair from all frizz and you're left with absolutely no fly aways. It works especially well after straightening as it keeps the hair straight all day. You can use it on both damp or dry hair and equally does wonders. Personally, I only use it when my hair is dry as I find it makes more of a difference. Personal preference. It's extremely lightweight and a little goes along way. Like I said, I purchased the 25ml in January and I finished it three days ago. It lasts forever! I can only imagine how long the 100ml is going to last me...

With nearly every product there are bound to be negatives, but with your absolute favourites you manage to overcome them. My only issue with the product is that it can be sticky, especially on your hands. The price is an obvious downside yet a little goes a long way and you hardly need any product!

Overall, I highly recommend Moroccanoil.

I purchased both the 25ml and 100ml from Feel Unique and they arrived within two working days.

Suzanna xoxo

The new L'Oréal EverPure and EverSleek hair expertise range

I was in Boots the other day and was looking for a new heat protectant as my trust Tresemme one has completely ran out. Browsing the isles I came across the new LO'réal Paris' Hair Expertise line with shampoos, conditioners, serums and hair protectants.

I decided to give the EverSleek Smoothing Mist Heat Protectant a go. On the bottle it says that it's for "frizzy, overworked hair". I don't particually have frizzy hair (and if I do, I would use my Moroccan oil) but I do have overworked hair.

First of all, I love the smell it gives. It's very nice, but if you don't like the smell it vanishes completely within a few seconds. Secondly, and most importantly, it works well as a hair protectant. So, how do you know when it does work? Sometimes - and especially after blowdrying your hair - when you straighten your hair (I don't want to say it, but) smoke comes off the appliance. If this hasn't happened then you either have found your perfect heat protectant or you don't straighten your hair as much. Note that I straighten my hair every day. Bad, I know. Anyway! After using the EverSleek heat protectant, I have found that it doesn't do it anymore which is awesome.

Another great thing about this product is that it claims to double as a smoothing mist to control frizz. I can't say whether this works or not as I use many other products on my hair, but it seems legit.

I also picked up the EverPure Colour Care Protective Mist for my mum, who dyes her hair every four weeks. So far, she says she hasn't noticed a difference but it's much harder to tell a difference on coloured hair I presume.

Overall, I think it works really well. My normal hair care routine has changed since my old post, I might do an updated one. But, let me just say that the heat protectant, my Paul Mitchell super skinny serum and Moroccan oil are the dream team - I recommend them all.

If you want to try it, it's £6.99 here!

Suzanna xoxo

Ps. Have a great weekend!

Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum

The Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum claims it "smoothes and conditions" and says "it helps smooth hair fast with reduced dry time. Helps control frizz and add shine." Sounds perfect. I picked it up from my hairdressers and it cost £15 for 150ml (or 5.1 fl.oz).

It can be considered as pricey for a serum but, if it works, then it doesn't really matter.

As soon as I got home, I was eager to try it. But I love the "day after hair" after going to the hairdressers. It's so nice and soft! So I waited two days later. I washed my hair normally using my beloved TRESemme shampoo and conditioner, which I need to change. My lovely hairdresser said my hair was dry from using it, so I think I'm going to splurge and purchase the Kerastase Nutritive line. Anyway, I washed it and let it air-dry for about 20 minutes. Even though my hair is thin, I have a lot of it so it takes ages to dry. After 20 minutes, I applied the serum onto damp hair (as instructed). The bottle says, for best results, rub one pump into hands, apply onto hair and starting at the ends working towards the scalp. I then finished drying my hair with a hairdryer.

Results? After my hair had completely dried, it was soft and, in addition, there seemed to be less fly-aways that I normally expect after drying my hair, which is positive. After I dry my hair - it's normally 11pm by this point - I would go to bed. So, I did. When I woke up this morning I straightened my hair which was fine but I noticed that my hair wasn't staying straight. After I finished straightening all of my hair I brushed through it to get rid of any tangles but, instead it literally brushed out the 'straight-ness' (ha-ha, I didn't know what else to call it)! My hair was also much more thick that it normally is after drying my hair. My initial thought was the serum, as everything else in my hair routine was the same as it has always been. To solve my problem, I just applied a small amount of Moroccan Oil to the ends of my hair. Moroccan Oil is great, but it makes my hair super greasy and results in having to wash my hair the next day which is a pain.

I am definitely going to try the product again. But, at the moment, I'm "on the fence" about whether I like it or not. Have you tried it, what do you think? :)

Suzanna
XOXO

Umberto Giannini "Salon Straight Blow Dry Cream"

One of the many items I purchased last week was the Salon Straight Blow Dry Cream by Umberto Giannini. It's a brand that I have purchased from before but, at the time, I had negative results (their shampoo and conditioner were not made for me!) Yet, I didn't want to base my overall impression of the brand based on one or two bad products, so I decided to try out their salon straight collection.

After going to the hairdressers, she told me that my hair was very dry. Immediately, I purchased the Kerastase shampoo and conditioner which is the ones she used on me that day. It makes my hair really silky and smooth and it tames frizz. When they arrive, I'll be sure to do a review on them as well as my Paul Mitchell serum I have ordered. Anyway, when I was at Westfield last week I picked up a sample size of the Umberto Giannini blow dry cream in hope that it would be a substitute while I wait for my Kerastase goodies.

Well, I like it and I don't like it. If that makes sense.

It does what it says - makes my hair look like it's been professionally blow dried at the salon; soft and shiny. However, it makes my hair SO curly! When I first applied it to damp hair (like instructed) I left it for 20 minutes and then blow dried. After drying it, my hair went so curly it's unbelievable. And my hair is naturally poker straight - granted I have the occasionally curl in my hair, but the product made it look like I had an afro. I seriously couldn't believe it. I'm writing this post a day after applying the product and it's still really curly. In that perspective, I do not like it! I am not a fan of curly hair and if I was, I'd want to be in control of that! It's a shame, really. I wanted this product to be good but  I guess Umberto Giannini products just don't work for me.

This is what my hair looked liked a day after using the product:

It's shiny, which is good thing. But it's so curly. It doesn't look that curly in this picture, just wavy, but trust me, it is. It's safe to say I won't be repurchasing, unfortunately.

Like I said reviews on the Kerastase shampoo and conditioner as well as the Paul Mitchell serum are coming soon. Be sure to check out the Upcoming Posts tab on the right!

Suzanna xoxo

Ps. It's my dad's birthday, and he loved his present! Thank goodness :)

Recent purchases at Westfield

Westfield is definitely one of my favourite places to shop. It has everything. Literally. Two floors of shopping amazingness. If you live in London, or near, go to Westfield at White City.

Anyway, I just got back shopping and I wanted to show you what I got!

Left to right:
1. Umberto Giannini Salon Straight Blow Dry Cream (review coming soon)
2. MAC Pro Eye makeup remover (*)
3. Rimmel London makeup remover
4. LO'real Paris gel eyeliner in black and brush
5. Maybelline the Falsies volume express flared mascara
6. Revlon lip butters (review coming soon) (*)
7. Garnier eye roll on
8. E45 cream
9. Carmex lip balm
10. Soap & Glory Hand Food cream
11. Barrel hair brush

Left to right:
1. Marie Clare magazine
2. InStyle magazine
3. Glamour magazine
4. The Big Bang Theory season 1-3
5. Maze Runner by James Dashner

and the most exciting purchase...

It's my Dad's birthday on Monday so we decided to treat him to the new iPad! Let's hope he likes it.

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Have a great Easter weekend.

Suzanna
XOXO

Ps. I've been watching Bertie's YouTube videos on his recent trip to New York. It makes me want October to hurry up so badly. It looks breathtaking! Check out the videos here: BertiebertG.

Hair shenanigans

Hello there :)

This is the second time I've written this. I just finished writing this post and...my laptop crashed. I thought MacBooks are meant to be reliable!? I'm pissed off. Now I've got to try and remember what I wrote!

I'm sorry that I've only been posting twice a week - school is extremely hectic at the moment. I'm studying for sociology, science, maths and english exams whilst completing strenuous ICT and media coursework - all at the same time! Half term is coming up soon, so more posts will be available. Anyway, let's get started...

Story time! I was sitting down drinking tea whilst watching The Big Bang Theory and writing my weekend shopping list (multi-tasker!). So far on my list I have: new sports trousers, a Spanish dictionary and coloured post-it notes. Exciting, right? I glanced over at my hair-products to find that all of my *favourite* six miracle workers are empty. They must be pretty damn special if I've managed to finish all of them so...

To cut a long story short, I'm going to share with you my favourite hair styling products of the moment!

L-R: TRESemmé Instant Refresh Dry Shampoo, TRESemmé Salon Sleek Straightening Spray, TRESemmé Heat Defence, John Frieda Frizz-Ease Heat Defeat, Avon Techniques Straightening Serum and Moroccan Oil.

     1. TRESemmé Instant Refresh Dry Shampoo for normal to oily hair
I literally do not know what I'd do with this. I use it religiously if my roots are beginning to show oil - it perfectly covers it up. If you're looking for a product to reduce oil and to use for "second day hair" then this is for you. However, the one problem I have with this is that it can leave a slight white cast if too much is applied to one area. To prevent this shake the can between sprays - it works.

     2. TRESemmé Salon Sleek Smooth Memory Frizz Controller Straightening Spray with Argan Oil
This stuff has an incredibly long name, yet it does everything it says. After washing my hair, I apply this before blow-trying as a heat-protectant. Whilst protecting my hair from heat rays, it tames frizz and fly away hairs to make it more soft and shiny. Personally, I don't use this before straightening or curling my hair as I find it takes too long to dry. If you straighten wet hair - obviously - it can damage your hair and I find using this product is just as worse. It's still great, though.

If you want a more in-depth review of this product, check out my previous blog post here!

     3. TRESemmé Heat Defence Styling Spray
Before straightening I use this product and spritz it everywhere. This is one of the best heat protectants I have used. It's a fine mist so it dries incredibly fast so you don't need to wait before straightening; this is the main reason why I was attracted to this.

     4. John Frieda Frizz-Ease Heat Defeat Protective Spray
I find this product to be the most universal out of them all. You can use this product for just about anything hair related. I use it before blow-drying AND straightening and I also use this in the summer when the weather is hot and humid. You wouldn't believe what magic it does; it tames frizz and keeps it controlled. I would definitely recommend this if you're hair is sensitive to heat or if you in general want to control frizz.

     5. Avon Techniques Smoothing Serum
OMG. I freaking love this stuff <3
I expect it to be rubbish after I saw it in one of my mum's Avon catalogues for only £3.50. However after only one test I fell completely in love. If I could only repurchase one thing hair related it would be this. You can use it on damp and dry hair. Personally, I use it on dry hair to make my frizz disappear and to tame fly aways. It's a thick gel formula yet doesn't make my hair greasy at all.

You don't have to be a subscriber to Avon to get this product, just head over to their website!

..and finally...

     6. Moroccan Oil Treatment
In a previous blog post I talked about how I wanted to try the Moroccan Oil Treatment. Literally 10 minutes after that post I placed an order on Feel Unique and purchased the small size. As soon as it arrived I was eager to see what the whole hype surrounding this product was about. My first thought: disappointment. It's not that great to be honest. Yes, it does tame frizz but that's about it really. It makes my hair extremely greasy looking, even after washing it. I genuinely am not a fan of this. Maybe it just suits different people. I'm going to let my mum try and I'll get back to you! I'm including this in this blog so it can count as a mini-review (also, it was in the picture I took!).

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I hope you found this helpful! And I hope you like the look of my new layout :)

Suzanna
XOXO

Tried & Tested: TRESemmé Salon Sleek Smooth Memory Straightening Spray

(***I'll be adding pictures soon! The ones I used originally were stock photos and looked horrible so I'll be doing my own shortly!!!***)


Wow, that is a mouthful.

This is going to be a review on the TRESemmé Salon Sleek Smooth Memory Straightening Spray. (I'm going to call it the straightening spray just to save time)

TRESemmé claim that:

"Salon Sleek Smooth Memory Frizz Controller Spraightening Spray contains Argan Oil from Morocco known for its nourishing and smoothing benefits. Use with heat appliances to train hair to become straighter, smoother and less frizzy over time."

So basically, they say that this product is the bees knees. But is it really that good?

Yes, it is. I purchased this from Boots around three weeks ago when I ran out of my Bed Head serum (which is uh-may-zing I hasten to add). To be completely honest with you, I picked this up expecting it to be mediocre. But how wrong was I? This product does exactly what it says, however I find the staying power of the product more on the bad side of the scale. After washing my hair, before I blow-dry, I spritz this all over and then dry it. After about 15 minutes, I have no frizz what-so-ever and my hair feels incredibly soft and hydrated. However, even if I straighten my hair afterwards, the spray doesn't keep it straight. I don't really see this as a "straightening spray" I see it more as a "control frizz and make your hair super soft" kind of spray. Being said, there's nothing wrong with that. I have other serums (which I'll mention in another post) that keep my hair straight. After all, I didn't expect this to be as good as it claims - it was only £4.99. I must add that, from personal experience, this product is much more effective is used alongside other TRESemmé products such as the shampoo and conditioner. I used it once using Herbal Essence shampoo and conditioner and the results weren't as good.

Well, I hope this was helpful. I'll be doing a fashion type blog next which is fun.

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I've just ordered from Feel Unique the hyped up Moroccan Oil which I am super excited to try out - I'll definitely do a fair review after I've tried it out several times. If you would like, I could compared several hair treatments? 

Leave a reply if you'd like that!

Hope you enjoyed this,

Suzanna

XOXO