Afro hair + Beauty + Fashion + Fitness

Nov 28, 2013

Barry M Lip Paint "Punky Pink" Shade 145 Review

Barry M Lip Paint "Punky Pink" Shade 145 Review

So this Barry M Lip Paint "Punky Pink" Shade 145 was a pretty random purchase a few weeks ago with my friend from Uni. I study Cosmetic Science in central London and when you are based in Oxford Circus, those 3 hour breaks are dangerous! Now I just go straight home because otherwise I'll be temped to go into the shops. 

Barry M Lip Paint "Punky Pink" Shade 145 Review and Ingredient list
So I used this in my recent FOTD post, see here. The first thing I noticed now as I am writing the review is that it is really really similar to the MUA shade 3 which I reviewed here a long while back. Anyway I got this lipstick from Topshop for £4.49 which I do think is a little over priced for this type of lipstick. I would say the staying power is better than the MUA one but it has a similar, pretty basic ingredient list with Mineral Oil topping the list. A few years back I refused to use anything containing Mineral Oil but these days I am more okay with them in lipsticks, as the main purpose of those are not to moisturise or make your lips softer.

Barry M Lip Paint "Punky Pink" Shade 145 Review and Ingredient list

The formula is, as you can probably see very pigmented but it is definitely on the creamy side and contrary to matte lipsticks, the staying powder of this type of lipstick is not that good. It does stay on pretty well for a few hours though. I actually love the fact that it is so creamy and I am definitely pleased with this over all :)

Ingredient Check:
  • Silicones (/) 
  • Mineral Oil (√)
  • Propylene/Butylene glycol (√)
  • Parabens (/)
Find the full ingredient list here on the Barry M website by clicking "Product Ingredients" in the lower right corner


Have you tried the Barry M Lip Paints (Lipsticks).
What do you think of this one?

xx



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Nov 27, 2013

Hair Care: Ecoco Inc Olive Oil Eco Styler Gel Vs. Argan Oil Eco Styler Gel, Comparison & Review

Hair Care: Ecoco Inc Olive Oil Eco Styler Gel Vs. Argan Oil Eco Styler Gel 
Comparison & Review

Ecoco Inc Olive Oil Eco Styler Gel Vs. Argan Oil Eco Styler Gel, Comparison & Review

Ecoco Inc Olive Oil Eco Styler Gel

"Eco Styler Olive Oil Styling Gel contains 100% Pure Olive Oil for deep down conditioning while maintaining maximum hold. Contains UV Protection and helps your scalp regulate its natural moisture system. For all hair types. Used by professionals."- Sallys.com

So this is the first of the Eco Styler gels that I tried out. I had just done my "big chop" (read about it here) and I bought it to use on my edges. Now this is suppose to have a 10/10 hold, and I definitely do not agree with that. It's more of a 7/ 8 as it does keep your edge in place, but they don't stay as neat all day and it doesn't leave that crunchy feeling on your head. I personally do not want a stronger hold so this product work fine for me! I think it gives a natural looking result which is perfect if you don't want that slicked/greasy edges look- I know I don't lol! 

Ecoco Inc Argan Oil Eco Styler Gel

"Eco Styler Moroccan Argan Oil Styling Gel is formulated with rare oils extracted from kernels of the Argan tree in Morocco. The formula conditions and revitalizes the hair while adding a brilliant shine. Moisturizes providing hydration and elasticity to hair."- Sallys.com

  • When my Olive Oil Eco Styler gel finished I decided to give this a try. Looking at the ingredient list below they are practically the same except for this product the Olive Oil is swapped with Argan Oil. Again, this product is claimed to have a 10/10 which I still don't agree with. I think this product feels slightly "oiler" than the Olive Oil one and has less hold, maybe like a 5. It doesn't keep my edges looking as neat as they do with the Olive Oil Eco Styler gel, but I am usually not going for the perfectly laid edges look so for me that isn't really an issue. 


Conclusion

  •  I really like both of these products but I don't think neither of them give the promised 10/10 hold. For me, the Eco Styler Argan Oil had a little less hold so I would recommend it to use for a more natural look, or to use when styling your hair in a braid out, twist out or flat twist out. I never got any build up or a crunchy feel with either of these products the way I used them. If I had to pick a favourite I will probably have to go with the Olive Oil one as it did keep my edges looking a bit more neat than the Eco Styler Argan Oil did.


Ingredient Check:
  • Silicones (/)
  • Mineral Oil (/)
  • Propylene/Butylene Glycol (/)
  • Glycerin (√)
  • Parabens (/)
  • ! It contains Wheat Protein so it is to be avoided if you are allergic to Gluten.


Have you tried either of these products, which one did you prefer?
And if not, what is your favourite gel and how do you use it?

xx

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Nov 26, 2013

Pink Barry M Lipstick FOTD

Pink Barry M Lipstick FOTD

So to make up for ridiculously infrequent blogging from my side I have about 7 posts lined up to be posted daily starting today. I have major issues with my WIFI at home at the moment but I am currently at university, scheduling all my posts.


This is a FOTD from a few days ago, nothing special and I am using pretty much the same makeup as you can see in my everyday makeup tutorial video on Youtube. When I am feeling lazy I always wear my hair in a puff like this, even though I know it will cause my hair to be super tangled when I then wash it..


What do you think of this look?
I am trying out a new Barry M lipstick that I bought a few weeks back, will review it soon.

xx

See everything I used in the video below :)




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Nov 15, 2013

Designer Desirables Fashion Wish List

Fashion Favourites from Designer Desirables 

Today I've got another fashion collage/wish list for you guys. It is from the website Designer Desirables. Here is some info about the company from their website: 

"Designer Desirables specialises in an extensive range of designer labels for stylish women. We have a gorgeous selection of Designer Clothing, Designer DressesShoesHandbags & Accessories to suit every taste & every occasion. Life is too short to accept anything less than the best and at Designer Desirables we strive to offer you just that... "the best"


Designer Desirables Fashion Collage, midi dress, cut out dress, midi skirt






Love Maxi Dress Jade Jersey Cut Out Column Maxi || Tempest Pam Yellow High Waist Pencil Skirt || Designer Desirables Dark Grey Jersey Ruched T-Shirt Dress ||  Designer Desirables Ox Blood Stretch Jersey Pencil Skirt ||  Finders Keepers White Moon Neon Sunny Lime Top || Finders Keepers Last Time Cream High Waisted Tailored Pants || Gugustar Gold Tone Large Pink Stone Cuff || Gugustar Black Gold & Grey Teardrop Choker Necklace ||  Lola Cruz Taupe Leather Gold Heel Shoes ||

Yes, I am definitely denying the fact that it is autumn and super cold in the UK. Luckily all of my readers are not from the UK and hopefully some of you have got some decent weather. Either way these were my favourites from Designer Desirables, and you could still wear all of these for autumn by layering or simply wearing them for going out!

If you follow me on Instagram you know I love midi skirts, which is why I have included two in this collage. The bright yellow one is from the brand Tempest and they have loads of going out skirts and dresses which you can check out here.

Other than that my favourites are the light grey midi dress, the red midi skirt and the white trousers (I have been loving this model of trousers lately).

What's your favourite from this collage?

xx

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*SPONSORED POST
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Nov 12, 2013

Dove Deeply Nourishing Body Wash & Dove Go Fresh Nourishing Body Wash Blue Fig & Orange Blossom Scent

Dove Deeply Nourishing & Go Fresh Nourishing Body Wash

Hi Everyone! Today I am reviewing these two body washed from Dove: Dove Deeply Nourishing Body Wash & Dove Go Fresh Nourishing Body Wash Blue Fig & Orange Blossom Scent (*). It was such a weird coincidence when I was initially contacted about reviewing these. In the past, I haven't purchased Dove Body Washes because whenever I looked at the ingredient list, they contained mineral oil which I do not use in my skin care products. However, I went to Superdrug and saw the Orange scented body wash, it smelt amazing and contained no mineral oil. It was also starting to get colder at that time and I wanted a little "pick me up" in the morning.
Now to the point, Dove had just conducted a study on the impact of a bad start to the day and what makes one. They therefore suggest a little more caring morning- starting with a great body wash that will really care for your skin.

I totally agree with this, but for me it's more so the scent of the body wash or whatever product you are using. For example, if I am having a really bad morning- I usually take that moment to use a product or perfume that smells extra nice as a little pick up. Does anyone else do this as well?


Dove Deeply Nourishing Body Wash & Dove Go Fresh Nourishing Body Wash Blue Fig & Orange Blossom Scent

Here is how Dove describe their Body Washed on their website: "What is the Dove Difference? Nourishment. Only Dove Body Wash has NutriumMoisture™ - our unique blend of moisturisers enriched with skin-natural lipids, which absorbs into the skin to nourish while you shower. Used everyday, it helps restore skin's strength from the inside for longer lasting more beautiful skin. Deeply nourishing. Clean rinsing. Always beautiful."

So the new product out of the two is the Dove Go Fresh Nourishing Body Wash Blue Fig & Orange Blossom Scent. It contains Sulfates so even though it is a gentle wash, it will definitely clean well enough and lather up really well. The formula is creamy, and actually light blue with quite a strong fragrance- but one that is really nice. I used this for my usual morning shower with scrubbing gloves which it was perfect for as it is both creamy and lathers up. I do also enjoy sulfate free body washes and shower gels- but a sulfate one is pretty much essential when you are trying to scrub your body use scrubbing gloves. 

I believe the Dove Deeply Nourishing Body Wash is somewhat of a classic and possibly one that has their signature fragrance, correct me if I am wrong. The formula is similar to the Blue Fig one- but I'd say this one was a little more creamy and it was white, and even though it has a nice scent- it is a little more subtle than the Blue Fig one. Other than the fragrance this body wash was very similar to the Blue Fig one and.

I really enjoyed using these and I think it suits someone who wants a nice smelling affordable body wash which will leave you squeaky clean but without dry or irritated skin. As far as I can see, it isn't mentioned anywhere but from looking at the ingredients it looks like the products are PH regulated which is definitely essential in a product that will be gentle on the skin. You might not want to use them if you are into all natural product- as they do not contain all natural ingredients. However, they are both free from Silicones, Parabens, Propylene Glycol and all of that as far as I can see- and they contain some nice natural oils :) 


Have you tried Dove Body Washed & how did you like them?

If not, what's your favourite Body Wash or Shower Gel?

xx

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Nov 7, 2013

October Favourites from Priti, Pur Minerals, BodyShop, Neals Yard Remedies, Weleda & Real Techniques

October Favourites from Priti, Pur Minerals, BodyShop, Neals Yard Remedies, Weleda & Real Techniques

October Favourites from Priti, Pur Minerals, BodyShop, Neals Yard Remedies, Weleda & Real Techniques


Completely natural nail varnish remover that removers all nail varnish and smells of orange oil. The only ingredients are Soy & Corn ester, orange oil and vegetable Glycerin. My mum got this for me recently on sale and they have since updated both the packaging and ingredient list. Check my review here.


I got this when I went to the Pur Minerals event recently and I really love it. I was super happy to get to try it out as my old mascara had just finished. It contains Argan Oil and it doesn't contain any alcohol at all. It has the plastic type of wand and is pretty big, so it is easy to cover all lashes when you're applying it. 


This is another product I got at the Pur Minerals Event. I am positive you can tell how much I like this- since I've already hit pan! This is a little too light for me so I apply the Pur Minerals bronzer on top of it to correct the shade (see this in my everyday makeup routine video here). I've personally been using this as a foundation, applying it with a dense brush and it gives amazing coverage, I am so impressed with this. The coverage definitely lasts all day. If you are wondering why it looks so small it's because it is the smaller version which came with their starter kit. 


Been loving this shade lately, it is baby pink so it is definitely very very light. Every time I wear this (on Instagram etc.) people ask what shade it is! Check it out in my Youtube tutorial here. Earthnicity is a natural makeup brand and I've previously reviewed their eyeshadows here. I am so impressed with this as the product is genuinely fully natural with ingredients like Castor Oil and more and is extremely pigmented. Stay tuned for a full review of this. 


There isn't much to say about this, only because I am sure everyone has tried it. Why it is in my favourites is because I love Bodyshop body butters but I never ever tend to go for floral scents. This is highly fragranced of Moringa (which I assume is a flower lol), a smell which never caught my attention before- but I love using it now! I got this at the Bodyshop showcasing event which you can check out here


This has actually run out since I took the picture, but only because I've been using it so much. I got it in the In Style magazine (I think that's the name) which is amazing for such a great full size product. I love Neal's Yard Remedies and the ingredients are amazing as usual. Despite it containing loads of natural oils it is exactly what is says it is- a super moisturising face cream which is not heavy at all. Check out my other blog posts on their products here


I think this says something about being a protective baby cream but from what I can remember the ingredient list was that of a pretty basic ointment with mainly Lanolin and some natural oils. I got it at the Handpicked Media event and I've been loving it lately to use for my cuticles and hands. Dry cuticles is such a bad look and I've been applying this religiously to fight this winter weather we've got going on in London right now. 


Last but not least, the two newest additions to my Real Techniques brush collection lol! That made it seem like I've got loads, but to be honest- I kind of do. I've got the started set , the travel essentials and the blush brush and shading brush (click the links for my reviews). I am sure you are all tired of hearing about these brushes as the hype has sort of passed over a year ago- but despite having that many Real Techniques brushes already, I was still really impressed with the quality and how soft they are.

Have you tried any of the products I mentioned in this post?

& What's your favourite Real Techniques brush?

xx

Check out my two previous favourites posts here & here. || Check out my YOUTUBE videos here :)

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Nov 4, 2013

Dove Style & Care Range Styling Event at the London Soho Hotel

Dove Style & Care Range Styling Event at the London Soho Hotel


So if you follow me on Instagram you already know that I was lucky enough to attend the Dove Style & Care Range Styling Event at the gorgeous London Soho Hotel. As opposed to an event where everyone attend at the same time, you had your own time slot when you could visit and attend for a styling session by celebrity hair stylist Christian Wood.


First off I was welcomed with drinks and some nice canapés to eat. Then the lovely Dove UK & Ireland & the Golin Harris Beauty teams gave me an introduction on the new Dove Style & Care range which consists of the Dove Heat Protect Spray, Dove Dry Shampoo, Dove Frizz Free Cream Serum & Dove Nourishing Dry Ends Serum. As the name reveals it's a range of products which are suppose to care for your hair as you style it- focusing on the health of your hair, as healthy hair will hold a style even better :)


After that I went on to have my hair styled by Christian Wood. As I knew the session was 30 minutes I showed up with blow dried hair as it would be impossible to achieve any type of style in 30 minutes with straight afro hair. Christian straightened my hair before styling it, and he chose a loosely braided updo which I really loved!


 This is the final results, these pictures where taken in the evening the same day, but the style still looked great. I actually kept it in all from this day which was a Thursday I believe, until the Sunday lol!


What do you think of the finished results?
& Have you tried the Dove Style & Care range?

xx

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Nov 3, 2013

OUTFIT Missguided Kelila Animal Print Trousers & Cut Out Top

Pattern Trousers & Cut Out Top Outfit

So I've got an outfit post for you today and I think it's fair to say that it's been way too long since the last one. It's funny because when I first started this blogging I posted more outfit than makeup/beauty post. Check out all of my previous outfits here and my previous fashion posts here.


|| Leather Jacket- New Look || Missguided Kelila Animal Print Trousers & Black Cut Out T-Shirt/Top- Misguided || Studded flats/slipper shoes- H&M || Gold Chain Bracelet- Republic || 









 Lately I've been wearing so much black so I went and bought these trousers lol! The material reminds me of those pyjama trousers you wore when you were young lol but I love the patter and they are so comfy!


What do you think of this outfit?

& feel free to link your latest outfit post :)

xx

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Please check out my most recent Youtube video and let me know what you think :) x
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