It’s Double Wear or Nothing when the flushing starts.

It’s Double Wear or Nothing when the flushing starts.

The founder of the Estée Lauder brand was Josephine Esther “Estée” Mentzer – born in 1906. An American woman of Hungarian-Czech origin. She entered the cosmetics industry thanks to her uncle, Dr. John Schotz, who ran his own company called “New Way Laboratories” since 1924. Estée Lauder began working in the cosmetics industry by selling cosmetics (face creams) produced in her own kitchen. A breakthrough in her career came with the launch of her first fragrance – the “Youth Dew” shower oil. The smell remained on the skin throughout the day.

In 1997 she launched the Double Wear foundation; it became an instant hit and is still a classic today.

 Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup is a long-lasting foundation that lasts up to 24 hours and it does not wear off or leave a stain.

Its oil-free formula prevents the skin from shining and leaves a matte finish but at the same time, it allows the skin to breathe. The foundation effectively conceals any skin imperfections, including enlarged pores, and does not cause acne. It is odourless.

The SPF 10 filter to protects against sun and harmful UV rays. It is matte but has a fresh natural finish. It has a medium buildable coverage for all skin types. It is the perfect solution if you are suffering from hot flushes or sweats because it will not melt off.

If the red patches travel down your neck and arms try Double wear maximum face and body, you can be confident that it will cover any degree of redness so you can get on with your day and not worrying about looking like a patch work quilt.

 If you have dry skin make sure you address this with your skin care/Primer, you can always mx a little of your Moisturiser/Primer with your foundation. I would recommend 2- parts foundation to 1-part primer. I wish it came with a pump, but you can buy it separately for around £5.So please stop by one of the Estée lauder counters where the lovely ladies with help you find your perfect shade and give you a ten day sample to take home.

Double Wear comes in three under tones Warm(W) ranges from Yellow, peachy to golden, Cool (C)-Pink and Bluish hues, Neutral (N), Has no obvious overtones of pink or sallow skin, but rather the skin’s natural colour is more apparent. It has nearly 60 shades, so it has tone for everyone.

I have been using Double Wear for over 20 years, I have have tried many others over the years, but it is the only one that has never let me down, it really does last. Even after a night out when I have forgotten to take my make-up off, I have woken up the next morning and it looks like I just applied it.

I don’t recommend doing that! You should never go to bed without taking your make up off, but we all make mistakes. Right!

Skin care is key! you can wash make up off but you cant wash off glowing skin.

I prep my skin with my Hanzz and Heidii eye cream, serum and moisturiser, then apply primer. I am using Double wear hydrating primer to illuminate the skin and banish away any sign of dullness. It has an SPF of 45.It provides a powerful protection against environmental damage melts into the skin for a radiant canvas, which never feels sticky or heavy.

My favourite brush to apply my foundation is a high-quality, vegan foundation brush consisting of extremely ultra-soft synthetic hair which are bunched by hand to a very dense brush top. The compact bunch and its flat surface facilitates an flawless even coverage effect.

I will list the brushes I like so you can have a look, I just apply a little at a time, starting at the side of my nose, blending outwards. It is so easy to apply, you see the difference straight away, it does not feel heavy, just light and fresh. I use double wear concealer under my eyes, its smooth and does not crease, it is oil free and has a soft matte finish, it comes with a wand applicator, but I use a brush to apply. My skin tone is neutral, but I do prefer a warm toned foundation.

My colours are depending on how tanned I am are

Tawny 3W

Shell beige 4N1

Honey bronze 4W1

Do give it a try if you are having trouble keeping your make-up on when the flushing or sweat hits. You won’t be

disappointed. Take a look at my last blog on Hot flushes.

As always Shine like a Diamonds.

Sending Love & Healing Energy.

Helena

XxX

Estee Lauder Double Wear Radiant Concealer – Boots

Skin care – www.zinzino.com – Zinzino

https://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/product/13805/39626/products/brushes-tools/brushes/face-brushes/170-synthetic-rounded-slant-brush

https://www.esteelauder.co.uk/product/643/3894/product-catalog/makeup/face/foundations/double-wear/stay-in-place-makeup-spf-10?shade=3W1_Tawny

https://www.esteelauder.co.uk/product/631/93149/product-catalog/makeup/double-wear/flawless-hydrating-primer-spf45?size=30ml

I hope you have found this helpful .I would love to hear your thoughts. Please drop them in the comments and join our private Facebook group to share your story, ask questions or share your tips.

The High Vibe Menopause Cafe, grab yourself a coffee & let’s chat symptoms | Facebook

Boost your Cinnamon, why you really need it.

Cinnamon is a spice that is made from the inner bark of trees. It’s amazing in apple pie or a lovely latte.

It’s very festive at this time of year, I normally put the sticks on my Christmas tree.

It has been used as an ingredient dating back to Ancient Egypt. It is made by cutting the stems of Cinnamon trees. The inner back is extracted, and dried it forms strips that curl into rolls, then ground to make powder. It contains fibre, calcium, iron and manganese.

It is believed to have a powerful effect on our health and metabolism.

Cinnamon is loaded with powerful antioxidants; studies have shown that compared to most spices it is a clear winner beating even garlic. It has Anti-inflammatory effect to help our bodies fight infections and repair damaged tissue. It reduces pain linked to arthritis.

Cinnamon may help reduce risk of heart disease as well as reducing levels of cholesterol and lower blood pressure. Research is continuing into how it may help with cancer.

Insulin is a key hormone that regulates the metabolism and our energy use, it is essential for transporting blood sugar from your blood stream to your cells. A lot of us has a resistance to insulin causing problems like diabetes. Cinnamon can reduce that resistance, helping insulin to do it job efficiently.

It may also have a positive effect on brain fog. Scientist are studying the effects of Cinnamon on Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

It is a proven effective relief for menstrual pain and supports the uterine muscle fibre. Cinnamon contains a natural chemical called cinnamaldehyde, which increases the hormone progesterone and decreases the production of testosterone in women to help balance hormones.

So, it let start adding cinnamon to our diets.

Cinnamon tea is wonderful.

I use one Cinnamon stick per cup of water, simmer for about 10mins, it taste sweet and spicy so you don’t need to add anything, but a do like a little honey and orange in it. Just bring the Cinnamon and Orange to the boil, then simmer for around 10mins, remove from heat and add honey.

Like everything else eat it in moderation-0.04 teaspoon is recommended.

Shine like a diamond beauties

Love and light

Helena

XxX

Enhance your skins natural Glow to look and feel strong and beautiful!!

Enhance your skins natural Glow to look and feel strong and beautiful!!

Let me introduce you to a wonderful, natural and cruelty free brand that I have fallen in love with during my second spring.(Menopause)

So I would love to take you through my routine because i found it a life saver when my skin was changing due to the hormonal changes in my body.

The philosophy behind the brand is their swiss heritage-Born in the Swiss Alps. It blossomed over beautiful mountain’s, surrounded by crystal clear lakes, mesmerizing environment. Thriving of its community .

Being strong, fearless, elegant and glowing with confidence gives us a feeling of freedom, because feeling free is happiness itself.

Being your own kind of beautiful speaks louder than words!

I love knowing the story behind the brand so you know if it believes in its own principles. I feel during menopause more natural ingredients work best for your skin.

They combine innovative Swiss biotechnology along with pure magic of nature, it is an experience like no other. Your skin feels amazing from the moment the products touch your skin.

Immediately your skins feels happy and loved. It is a spa like sensation with the natural fragrance of white peach, rose blossom and iris(Female) and Wild herbs, fresh ginger, alpine forest(Male).

The brand focuses on being part of responsible beauty which is so important during Perimenopause and Menopause to reduce skin irritation as well as helping save the planet.

The brand is proud to be vegan and cruelty free containing the “Magic Swiss Code” a formula using plant-based stem cell technology. It is a multifunctional skin care system to help strengthen skin cells while activating the regeneration process.

Showing amazing results by helping our skin regain its natural WOW factor!!!!!

Since I have been using the range my skin is clearer and has felt more lifted and toned with an amazing glow!

The products glide of my skin effortlessly and immediately feel hydrated and calm as my skin is sensitive and can be patchy especially going through menopause.

It is best to use more natural based products so you are less prone to irritation.

My foundation seems to sit better ,looking more natural and illuminating .I don’t feel the need to wear heavy make-up as much. There is nothing wrong if you prefer a fuller matte coverage, it about being you no one else.

My routine routine consist of – ERAZE Balancing foam cleanser, with Aloe Vera, a cleansing agent enriched with antibacterial properties that flush out impurities gently.

Using two pumps of the foam on dampened skin. I use a little spritz bottle with water and spray my skin before hand.

I remove with a damp micro fibre cloth. It leaves my skin fresh and clean without feeling dry and tight which I have found with cleansers in the past.

Then I apply one pump of VITALIZE foam softener pat into my skin to remineralizer with licorice which has soothing effect on the skin, it eases inflammation, reduces redness, irritation and swelling while brightening the skin.

It calms my skin and prepares it skin for the next step….

BOOZT beautifying cellular serum to plump and smooth my skin, using two pumps I massage it into my face and neck avoiding my eyes ,this product is my desert island one.

I cant live without it and everyone who uses it says the same!

It is a amazing serum, from the moment I apply it to my skin it gives an instant smoothness and a lovely glow. It helps boosts elastin and collagen production.

I have been ask many times if you need to use a serum and a moisturiser and the answer is yes they work holistically together.

Your serum will penetrate to the deeper layers of the skin to work ,it is packed full of beneficial ingredients to help your skin regenerate form damage and stay healthy.

Helping speed up the cellular turnover rate so your skin feel softer, younger and more radiant. Serum will hydrate your skin by is not a replacement for your moisturiser or SPF.

Moisturisers have two functions , hydrate and prevent water loss. They seal in existing moisture that your skin already holds and makes it harder for moisture to evaporate during the day.

They do contain other ingredients to address concerns like anti aging, pigmentation or a difficult skin condition.

Your serum and moisturiser will usually share the same ingredients like Vitamins and minerals to help heal your skin or keep it healthy and moisturising agents like

Aloe Vera and Hyaluronic Acid but Your serum is thinner, lighter and has smaller molecules with higher concentration of ingredients to penetrate, improve, correct or nourish the skin.

Avoiding my eye area with my moistures because as I use VISUALIZE transforming eye cream which helps with my dark circles/ puffiness. I have suffered for years with sinusitis which causes my eyes to get very puffy .

I have tried lots of eye creams over the years and I have never found one I was really happy with until now, the difference is clear, my eyes are not as tired looking or puffy looking and the skin around my eyes are much smoother.

I love the airless pump bottle because it much more hygienic than dipping into the pot.

The airless technology has less waste and keeps the products fresher for longer and is eco friendly.

It contains amazing ingredients like Persian silk tree which boost cell energy and revitalizes tired skin as well as supporting the skins natural detoxification process, it also tightens week contours.

I apply one pump to the contour of my eye, about the size of a grain of rice.

Always using my ring finger because it has the lightest touch, gently tap small dots under my eyes.

Starting at the innermost corner, avoiding your tear duct, moving outwards to the temples then along brow bone.

Pat into the skin. The eye area is a lot finer than the rest of your skin so NEVER use your moisturiser or use your eye cream it too close to your eye. I use REGENERIZE regeneration cream for my frown lines, it helps deeper lines and scaring.

Then used my rose quartz roller at this point ,massaging over the eye contours, face and neck to detox and improve circulation.

My last step is my moisturiser ENERGIZE activating 24H emulsion SNA blend cell protection.

This hydrates and protects my skin from infrared and blue light-induced skin ageing. It has lots effective ingredients including Sunflower sprout a powerful anti-agent with high levels of antioxidants that combat free radicals .

Free radicals are unstable molecules that damage skin cells,the come from many different things including

  • Pollution
  • Toxins
  • Smog
  • Dust
  • Cigarette smoke
  • sun

The effects of the damage can effect the skin in different ways-

  • Discolouration
  • Brown spots
  • Broken blood vessels
  • Unevenness
  • Wrinkles-Breakdown of Collagen
  • Loose and Sagging skin-damage to elastic fibres

Twice a week I give what i call a “Magic WOW facial” Using MAXIMIZE energizing black algae mask, which purifies, exfoliates to activate the skins function to refine, plump and smooth.

Containing Bamboo Charcoal an amazing exfoliator, drawing out the impurities and debris that are located in the skins pores, an other key ingredient is Brown Algae which supports cellular renewal.

Slowing down the decline of collagen production helping to keep the skin elastic and smooth.

It also valuable minerals and trace elements so it has powerful blend to hydrate and sooth the skin .It is a powerful antioxidant as well .

Leaving the mask on for about 8 minutes(You can leave on up to 15mins), removing with a damp cloth.

Next I apply AMAZE rejuvenating lifting mask a 100% natural biodegradable softwood fibre, it has a lovely silky activating lotion.

Bursting with an anti -wrinkle peptide complex of Malachite, an innovative active mineral extract rich in trace elements and copper to protects against environmental aggressors and pollutions .

The powerful lotion easily absorbs into my skin leaving it feeling wonderfully fresh, plumped and smooth with lovely glow.

I also try to drink plenty of water throughout the day. In the morning I drink my water with lemon and ginger with my vitamins.

Mid-morning, I take a protein supplement drink mixed with lactose free milk and fruit and a shot of my Omega balance oil for my cellular health, menopausal symptom and healthy skin.

It helps my weight management, energy levels and digestive system because it contains fibre and prebiotics. I know we often associate protein with body builders and athletes, but it’s actually an essential part of anyone’s diet – and especially so for menopausal women!

Protein is a vital nutrient for building hormones, muscles, healthy skin, strong nails, digestive enzymes and more.

If you are feeling a bit unhappy with your skin because you are seeing you skin getting duller and lines are starting to appear or you are a little lost and feeling down and need help, drop me a comment or send me on Instagram or FB.I would love to hear from you.

You never know not only could you regain your glow, it might lead you to a new beginning, It did with me.

Sending love and support

Helena

XxX

Do you know what’s in your products?

Do you know what’s in your products?

Are you using Silicones?

You can recognize Silicones in your cosmetics by the ingredients (INCIs)with the endings “-cone” or “-xane” on the packaging. In cosmetics there are hundreds. Some of the popular ones are;

  • Dimethicone
  • Trimethicone
  • Methicone
  • Amodimethicon
  • Polysilicone
  • Siloxane
  • Cyclopentasiloxane
  • Cyclomethicone 

Silicone is a substance derived from silica, it is made up of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and silicon, then mixed with other chemicals. It is considered part of the rubber family, so it is Plastic, manufactured in a laboratory. So, no matter the marketing claim that it is green, it is not!

 It is commonly used in cosmetics because it is easier to apply and distribute the products. They provide a softness to the skin and well as blurring effect, emollients are essential ingredient in our cosmetics, the play an important role in determining the right feel of a product.

Silicones, or liquid plastic coats the skin with an airtight layer on the skin/hair, a film which stops nutrients penetrating the skin, which will disrupt the skins natural defence along with trapping in oil / dirt. It is difficult to wash off, so you need to take extra care in your cleansing routine to make sure you have removed them completely.

When it is used in hair care it gives a beautiful shine to the hair which makes it look and feel better, but it is not the case, and it becomes less stable and is more prone to breaking.

 Some silicones are readily biodegradable, but others can persist in the environment where it accumulates and becomes toxic.

Due to the inert nature and ability to impart several benefits to the products, silicones have a clear advantage in cosmetics and are deemed for use. They are hypoallergenic, non-irritating and non-comedogenic.

But, unlike some natural alternatives, the short-term cosmetic or sensory fix does not benefit in the long term.

There are natural alternatives to silicone.

Look for natural skincare products which use high quality vegetable oils which works with the skin to build inner strength.

Silicone free Primer Too Faced | Hangover Primer | Cult Beauty

Silicone free Foundation Buy bareMinerals BareSkin Pure Brightening Serum Foundation SPF 20 from the Next UK online shop

*Silicone Free Skincare Swiss made Hanzz and Heidii https://hanzzandheidii.com/1841461

Silicone Free Shampoo and Conditioner Faith in Nature Lavender and Geranium https://amzn.to/3wwY7z3

I hope this helps .

Shine like diamonds and be the reason you smile today and pass it on.

Love Helena

XxX

Acne Rosacea Tips for you.

I have been having a few conversations with a client who has been suffering with Acne Rosacea for many years, I say suffering because it has had an impact on her confidence and wellbeing, Karen would not leave the house without plastering on makeup, which in her words “looked like a mask”. She has missed a lot of events in her life because she was terrified to be in a picture because she hated how her skin looked .I can relate to how that feels, I had acne Vulgaris when I was younger and it does take its toll.

Karen had tried everything to get rid of her spots ,and nothing had worked for her ,so she was at her wits end when we first spoke. Karen is 56 years old and has been suffering for about 16 years ,she went to her doctor who didn’t seem interested in helping, he gave her a course of antibiotics ,which seemed to help for a while but then bounced back with vengeance and from then on has been trying different products which didn’t work or they did for a while .We focused on what was triggering her skin, she started jotting down what she was eating/doing so we had more understanding on what her skin was reacting to.

We then focus on calming and soothing Karen’s skin, allowing her skin to hydrate and repair! Too many people make their condition worse because they over stimulate their skin which will make it worse. Karen is now seeing an improvement with her skin and is starting to feel more confident and beautiful. Karen has also changed some of her products she uses and the food she eats and has also started take a soluble collagen supplement.She is in it for the long haul !

I am sure there must be others feeling the same so I thought I would share some information with you to help you with your journey. When your skin starts to react or break out, it can be confusing and very stressful. So it is important to understand what’s going on with your skin.

Do I have Acne Rosacea or acne Vulgaris?

Acne vulgaris affects mostly adolescents whereas Rosacea affects mostly people between 30-50 years old and more commonly with woman but if men do get it the symptoms can be severe.

 Vulgaris is much more common and affects the face and body. Your follicles become blocked with dead skin cells,dirt and oil, resulting in inflammation-

Causes includes genetics, hormonal function, bacterial growth amongst other things. Normally it would show as blackheads, whiteheads, lumps and spots with redness and scarring.

Rosacea shows as redness, smaller lumps with swelling and or thickening. normally localised at the centre of the face, cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin.

Firstly, there is not a cure or any magic remedy and that is hard to come to terms with. It is taking care of yourself and your skin and being committed to a good routine for you, so your skin is as healthy as possible, and you feel beautiful and confident.

No one knows to this day why it happens to the skin and the best thing to do is prevent the flare ups.

Main causes-

  • Exposure to sunlight.
  • Stress /Emotional Stress.
  • Family History/Fair Skin.
  • Some Medications
  • Products/Cosmetics that are not suitable for your skin.
  • Alcohol.
  • Spicy Food, Dairy, tomatoes, foods pickled in vinegar, foods high in carbohydrates.
  • Hot drinks.
  • Extreme temperatures.
  • 30+ at risk.

Its your skin so learn to understand it, keep a journal, and write down what you eat and do, note down how your skin feels after eating, and a few hours later and then again when you wake up the next day. As you learn you will know how to prevent those triggers. This might seem like a lot of work, but it will be worth it for skin ,wellbeing and building your confidence.

Foods and supplements known to help-

  • Any anti-inflammatory food
  • Eggs
  • Flaxseed
  • Cod liver oil
  • Fatty fish
  • Berries
  • Brown rice
  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin B complex
  • Zinc
  • Borage oil/Evening Primrose
  • Spearmint /Green Tea
  • Collagen Supplements

Take care of your skin with a good skin care routine-

  • Cleanse your skin twice a day. Apply your cleanser with fingertips and use gentle circular motions, rinse with Lukewarm water or cooled boiled water. Pat dry with a facial tissue or clean cotton towel. This is to keep your skin clean and clear and ready to repair.
  • Apply your serum with a gentle massage movement in a heart shape, to help repair your skin, helping stimulate your collagen and elastin will energising your skin.
  • Moisturise with a patting motion to hydrate and help calm and smooth your skin.
  • SPF to protect from UV damage. You want SPF 30 or higher, no fragrance with Broad-spectrum protection.
  • Do not forget your Eye cream, apply with your ring finger. You only need the size of a grain of rice for both eyes, apply around the contour od the eye.
  • Your weekly spa at home facial to gently exfoliate and boost and reset your skin with the correct masks.

DRINK PLENTY OF WATER………AND BE GENTLE WITH YOUR SKIN…….

Try to use more natural products that are cruelty free that are not highly fragrance.

Look out for Ingredients like Camphor, Fragrance, Which hazel Glycolic acid, Lactic acid, menthol, and sodium laurel sulphate.

Choose foundation that will let your skin breathe, with buildable coverage so it will not look cakey .Get colour match from a professional so you will get the right shade for your colouring, as you know I worked with Estee Lauder for years and I would recommend Double wear Foundation. Invest in a good primer that colour corrects. I would try not to use powder if you can. Use your bronzer to contour, and apply your blusher higher on the cheek bone to distracted the colour from the centre of the face, Use a blusher with no blue pigment as it can make the skin look worse.

I hope this helps you with your Acne Rosacea journey

Remember you are beautiful, Brilliant and fabulous…

So shine like a Diamond….

Love Helena XxX

Double Wear Flawless Hydrating Primer SPF45 | Estee Lauder – Official Site

Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup SPF 10 | Estee Lauder – Official Site

Bronzing Powder | MAC Cosmetics – Official Site

Mineralize Blush – Baked Mineral Blush | MAC Cosmetics – Official Site | MAC Cosmetics – Official Site

See shop link for more information on Skincare.

To book a consultation DM me on Instagram.

Also check out my 5 top foods to boost your collagen .

Where has the time gone!

Well, it is that time, the big 50!

I had a wonderful time even though it was in lockdown. I cannot believe where the time has gone. Like most people getting older has been a rollercoaster of a journey. There has been ups, downs, joy, sadness, hard knocks along with successes and of course heart breaks.

I lost both my parents to cancer, my Mum from breast cancer when I was about 26 and my dad from throat cancer when I was 37.I also had a scare and had a lump removed from my breast. I am so grateful to be healthy now. have struggled to cope emotionally and physically, as I am sure you have at some point.

 I used to eat my emotions. I have often felt down and struggled to cope, sometimes it has taken all my strength to pull myself through. We all have experienced great losses in our lives and there are two options, Sink or swim, I always choose swim, even if it is with a life jacket.

We also experience great love, and I am so thankful to have met my soul mate and to have the support of my family and friends and I am profoundly grateful for all the memories and lessons I have learn over the years. Your certainly do not realise it at the time, but as time passes, your grow and learn more about yourself, you start to see those lessons.

I believe you must keep learning and developing your self and keeping a positive mindset. A few years ago, I discovered a wonderful meditation by Louise Hay, her teachings are invaluable. Her book “The power within” is a wonderful read, it helped me change my outlook on life.

I do not think about life as getting older, I feel that every day is a new start to learn and develop new skills, keep pushing yourself out of that comfort zone.

This year I have certainly done that by starting my own business , its hard work and scary at times but I am enjoying it, I love connecting with people and helping my customers have a healthy glowing skin, Which leads to them feeling more confident and beautiful.

Keep setting goals, keep pushing yourself to be better.

Keep Smiling beautiful Diamonds.

Love Helena XxX

https://amzn.to/33zSRNZ

Achieve a Picture Perfect Brows with Morphe Arch Obessions Brow Kit.

Achieve a Picture Perfect Brows with Morphe Arch Obessions Brow Kit.

Hello Beautiful Diamonds,

Sorry it has been a while; I have been busy with my new business and getting my house ready for selling. Wish me luck…….

So on to Brows….

If you are like me, you have probably tried so many brow pencils, dips, powder, and gels you could set up shop!

Brows have changed so much through the years. Never has so much care and attention went into caring for your brows.

But brows have always been important.

In Egyptian timed both men and women wore makeup for its supernatural powers. As an homage to the God Horus, heavily lined eyes were the focal point of the face, which meant that eyebrows needed to be equally as prominent. They darkened, arched, and elongated brows by painting on carbon and black oxide substances. Cleopatra was most definitely the pioneer of the bold brow look. The brows shape changed through the ages defining our face and adapting to the trends.

1920s: thin and rounded arches

1930s: strong and arched brows

1940s: full and natural arches

1950s: arched and brushed eyebrows

1960s: short and mod brows

1970s: waxed and arched eyebrows

1980s: thick and natural brows

1990s: skinny brows

2000s: pencil-thin arches

2010s: the natural brow

2020s: the Instagram brow

I think I have found one that I will be sticking with for a while- THE MORPHY SET.

I purchase it about two months ago in Java. *

What you get- £20 Great Value

  • Micro Brow Pencil
  • Brow Setting Gel in Translucent
  • Brow Cream
  • M158 Angle Liner/Spoolie Brush
  • Highlighter Stick in Oh Brow Baby

The Colours you can buy.

  • Macadamia / light blonde with warm undertones – NEW
  • Praline / light blonde with cool undertones – NEW
  • Biscotti / light taupe with cool undertones
  • Hazelnut / taupe with neutral undertones
  • Latte / soft brown with cool undertones
  • Almond / warm brown with warm undertones
  • Mocha / rich brown with warm undertones
  • Cold Brew / brown with neutral undertones – NEW
  • Java / deep brown with neutral undertones *
  • Chocolate Mousse / soft black with neutral undertones

I am loving every product in the set, start by brushing the brows in the direction of the hair growth with the spoolie (Brush that looks like a mascara wand). It is a great brush, having the spoolie and the angle brush together is perfect. The spoolie catches all the hairs and brushes through your brows easily. The angle end is the perfect shape and size to work with(M158), It is great for applying your liquid/gel eye liners too. 

Then use the Micro Brow Pencil to create a defining line for the bottom of the brow. The pencil is nice and fine so it a natural definition and not a hard thick false looking brow, and it does not drag on the skin like some pencils do, it also stays put which is a must! Continue building definition with hair-like strokes to create shape.

Now lightly apply Brow Cream using the angled brush to fill in and define the shape, the cream is smooth and glides on, and the is no crumbling and again it stays on. Starting at the head of the brow. Create strokes that mimic the natural growth pattern of the hair. Create downward strokes at the top of the brow to create a fullness.

The Highlighter Stick is the next step to Define underneath the brow to create a nice sharp, clean line. I just use the pencil under the brow, then blend with my concealer brush, it blends well. The finish by applying the clear Brow Setting gel and your ready to rock those brows.

Quick Tip

I have to say I have been conditioning my brow with Caster oil (Heritage store)every night after applying my eye cream (Hanzz and Heidii) for the last two months and I can see and feel the difference, my skin under my brows isn’t dry and my brows look and feel healthier and fuller.

Love your brows…..

Love Helena XxX

Morphe | Micro Brow Pencil | Cult Beauty

Hanzz and Heidii Eye cream-@Helenam22 | Linktree

Heritage Store | Castor Oil | Cult Beauty | Cult Beauty

Natalie Grace Cosmetics

Natalie Grace Cosmetics

Hi Beautiful Diamonds,

As you know I love lipstick, it is just the best! You can tailor it to your outfit, it can make you smile and feel pretty when your sad and its normally with you for all those special moments.

So, I have been trying Natalie Grace cosmetics and I am not disappointed.

What Natalie says-

I created this brand not just because I love makeup, but I love how it makes woman feel. Knowing on your wedding day your wearing “I do” or “Every After”, Every day you are wearing my products and they make you feel pretty and ready for the day ahead. Do not let anyone stop you from being the best version of you.

                      Love Natalie

How inspiring is that! Natalie is a successful Bridal Make up Artist who has been helping woman celebrate the special day for over 6 years. Your wedding day is especially important, and you want to look and feel your most beautiful self, and this range will certainly help you do that.

I purchase the trio and saved 10% (£35.10) it arrived beautifully packaged , with a handwritten note inside, such attention to detail was a beautiful touch. The product packaging is a beautiful pearl white box with gold writing, a touch of luxury at an affordable price.

The lipstick “KISS THE BRIDE” (£16) 4g

It is a medium toned matte, but creamy lipstick, it is a perfect blend of warm pink with a hint of peach, it is a great colour for most skin tones. It is infused with Shea butter which keeps your lips soft and hydrated, it is also enriched with mineral oil to protect against dehydration. It glides on effortlessly and your lips instantly feel soothed and nourished. The colour looks so good on, I will definitely be trying out more colours in the range. I love that it has a little mirror on the top so if you are like me and you sometimes you keep lipstick in your bra, you can re-apply anywhere. It also has a perfect magnetic click back into place, so you will not lose the lid.

 The pencil “PASSION” (£11) 1g

Passion lip liner is a lovely mauve tone, which will pair with most pink/Mauve tone lipstick or gloss, it is enriched with Vitamin E and is so easy to apply, there is no dragging or pulling of your lips and the colour is impactful straight away, I hate when your excited with a purchase of a lip liner and it either drags/pulls or you wonder where is the colour! This one gives you quality and value.

The Gloss “ROMANCE” (£12) 8g

Romance gloss is a high shine shimmery warm pink with a hint of peach, enriched with Shea butter and beautiful scent of vanilla, gives the smoothest application with no streaking and is not sticky. Love that! The gloss also has the cuties little gold mirror on the lid, a lovely finishing touch to an already beautifully packaged product.

Colour swatches-

Natalie has done an amazing job in creating this range, you can tell it has been designed with love, passion, and the desire to help you look and feel wonderful. So, if you’re a bride looking for that perfect colour for your big day or you’re looking for a new luxurious lipstick range at a great price, then give Natalie Grace Cosmetics a try.

Shine like a Diamond,

Love Helena XxX

Natalie Grace Cosmetics. Inspired by Real Brides.

The NYX – Honey Dew Me Up

The NYX – Honey Dew Me Up

Hi Beautiful Diamonds,

The NYX Honey Dew Me Up primer retails at £15, which is a little more expensive than other drugstore options; but affordable. Its 22ml glass jar and comes with a spatula for application, which is useful, but I would prefer a pump action. The primer consistency is like a sticky gel formula, it has a lovely golden colour with little light-reflective flakes; enriched with honey and collagen. It has a sweet but fresh scent.

  What NYX have to say about this primer:

“Perfect as a primer, the formula also neutralises the appearance of discolouration and redness. Thanks to collagen, tiny, suspended gold flakes and honey extract, the sublimely textured primer imparts much-needed moisture and helps to firm skin, fighting unwanted signs of ageing.”


I have mature combination skin and it left my skin smooth, hydrated but slightly tacky, not a feeling I used to on my skin, but I understand their reasoning behind it.

The Honey Dew Me Up primer did create a smooth cooling base for my foundation. It does keep my makeup in place, but I was disappointed the gold speckles did not show up at all when applied, I was so excited to try it based on the gold fleck, I thought it would give my skin a glass effect but sadly no. My skin did not glow or have a sheen to it and there was not a reduction in redness, but I am not highly coloured anyway. but my skin did feel hydrated and smooth and comfortable so I would say it is a good, effective primer, and worth a try.

I do like how hydrating this primer is, and I would recommend it for both dry and combination skin types – although dry skin will would like this more. To sum up, Honey Dew Me Up gets a 7/10 Whilst it does not live up to all its claims of ‘glowing, discolouration-free skin’, it is still a reliable primer that makes your skin feel smooth and hydrated.

Happy Priming Diamonds

Love Helena XxX

Link to product                             

NYX Professional Makeup| Honey Dew Me Up Primer | Cult Beauty

Be a golden Goddess

Be a golden Goddess

Victorians did not like the sun. I can’t understand that! They were not the only ones in Greek and Roman times, women whitened their skin with lead paint and chalk to a literally deathly pallor and Elizabethan ladies painted on blue veins to affect translucent skin. WHY!

It wasn’t until Ms Coco Chanel skipped off a yacht, sporting a beautiful, bronzed skin in early 1920’s, It definitely wasn’t intentional, but then being tanned was suddenly ‘the ‘in’ thing’.

By the mid-1920s, Factory and mine workers did not have the money to sun themselves on a fancy holiday, so it was only the wealthy who had a suntan.

 Aside from being fashionable, the notice realised how incredibly sliming and flattering it was to be beautiful golden caramel colour.

From the thirties onwards, tanning entered the mainstream, then with the arrival of the first bikinis in the fifties, came the first (near) all-over tan.

The first self-tanning products appeared in the 1960’sand gained popularity because Government health authorities confirmed the links to UV exposure and skin cancer.

At the time it was just a brown dye, nowhere near the sophisticated formulas we use today. A consistent tan became a possibility for those who could not afford to winter in the Caribbean. Some women even used tea bags to tint the skin, the first fake tan product hit the market as “Man Tan”. During World war II.

The early spray and rub on tanners had an off colour which made you look tangoed and the smell was ridiculous, and they did not have conditioners and used an unnatural form of DHA, so you ended up looking like a well-done piece of streaky bacon and smelled like old biscuits!

But theses day that has been resolved, a good job as the market is worth over a billion globally. Today they profile you with a natural glow to a deep chocolate tan and the DHA is derived from plant sources.

Just having a great self-tan is not enough on its own, you must take care of your skin, making sure its hydrated and exfoliated so you get an even long-lasting colour, this will also help your colour fade evenly. Avoid products with heavy oils in them as it can loosen the tan leading to patchiness.

To exfoliate I have been using Clarins body scrub (£30), it contains natural bamboo powders and a hint of ginger, so your skin is smooth and fresh, and to moisturiser I have been using is Bondi sands comes in 500mls bottle with a pump (£9). It has a beautiful coconut scent enriched with Jojoba and vitamin E, it also has antioxidant protection which shields the skin from environmental assaults and leaves my skin hydrated and radiant.

Once my skin is prepared, I put on my gloves and use a GAIYAH self-Tanning mitt (£6), it has an Anti-slip wrist which I love because your glove does not fly off halfway through!!Also remember to shave the day before, this will help your tan last longer.

I normally start at my ankles with my Bondi sand liquid gold (£15) I find this tanner gives me a lovely natural colour, I have tried many over the years and find the colour just was not right on my skin, when I used fake bake, I felt I looked a tinge green, not a good look! Anyway, I work my way up making sure it is even, I get Peter to do my back but if he is not around, I use a back applicator from GAIYAH (£8), missing out my feet, hands and face as I use a Kabuki brush (£7) for those areas. The brush gives a nice even look.

On my face I did use Lancôme Flash gel bronzer (£27.50) which has a lovely texture, leaving my skin golden but sadly Its discontinued. But over the past month I have moved on to Bondi Pure face mist, its lightweight mist is enriched with hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and E and is 100% recyclable. I just close my eyes and spray evenly over my face, then blend with my brush. Leave overnight and shower off in the morning. I normally top up my face, neck and hands after 3 days to keep it looking fresh.

Happy Tanning

Helena

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