Beauty Hack: How to clean your brushes. Quick & Easy.

Hi guys,

Just a quick post to share an amazing purchase I recently made. Now we all dislike brush cleaning day. I know I am bad for leaving it a tad longer than I should.

In an effort to make this chore a little less of a hassle, I have been on the hunt for the silicon oven mitt - which is claimed to be a dupe for the Sigma Beauty Spa Brush Cleaning Glove.

Whilst browsing the cookware section I stumbled the silicon pot mat, setting me back a whopping $2! I couldn't believe what a brilliant find I had stumbled across.


I was able to place the mat in my sink, leaving both hands free to clean all my current dirty brushes in a matter of minutes. Cleaning my brushes just became effortless & easy - no more putting it off.

If you would be interested in a how I clean my brushes post please let me know.

I also have a older video on YouTube if you would be interested in watching that.

Hope you enjoyed this post - make sure you let me know if you have stumbled across any genius beauty hacks recently.

Talk Soon, S x.

Current Everyday Make Up Routine - Perfect for Work.



If your anything like me, you may be slightly time-poor in the mornings. Whether it is due to a morning work out or just hit that snooze button one too many times.

I thought I would share my go to make up look/routine which takes me little to no time at all to achieve a polished natural look.

I tend to keep it fairly simple and focus on my base, making sure my skin looks as flawless as possible.

Obviously the base will always start with moisturiser & primer. I am yet to find a day time moisturiser that I love. I tend to switch up my primer quite regularly - at the moment I am really enjoying the Rimmel Stay Matte Primer.

Recently I have been wearing Nude by Nature Liquid Foundation in the shade Medium. At first this looks a little too dark but once blended it looks very natural. This foundation is light wearing and a medium coverage. I had a strange consistency to apply but I have found using my fingers is the best & easiest way to apply it.

Next I apply my concealer - I don't care how little time I have, I am always doing to find time for concealer. Maybelline Age Rewind in Light. This quick easy step for me is a game changer. I blend this out with a damp beauty blender.

Finally to perfect a flawless base, I set with my Nude by Nature Mineral Finishing Veil Powder. This is a light almost translucent powder & works wonders at perfecting & finishing the base.

As far as eyes and lips go - I keep it very neutral and basic. This makes it very suitable for everyday work and also a lot quicker.

My go to eyes consist of a combination of natural Make Up Geek Shadows - my favourites being Beaches & Cream and Peach Smoothie. These are great to lighten to eye area and add a little definition into the crease. Finishing off the look with my Essence Get Big Lash Mascara.

Now for the rest of the face, a quick bronze with my Inglot 505 Bronzer & a little colour on the cheeks - I have been obsessed with Make Up Geek Bliss lately. Not to forget the brows, my go to product is a MAC eye shadow in the shade Braun. I apply this using a small angled brush.

If I am feeling like I want to switch it up,  I will generally add a little colour to either my lids or lips but generally not too far out of the neutral colour family.

I know this may seem like a lot of make up or steps for a quick everyday routine.. but trust me - once you do it everyday, its very quick and easy.

I hope this helps you with your morning work routines to achieve a stunning flawless face.

Talk Soon, S x.

Mineral or Miracle Mask

I started using the Trilogy Mineral Radiance Mask around 2 weeks ago & to say I am obsessed would be putting it lightly. 

This mask is actually unlike any other store bought mask I have tried. The natural creaminess of the mask makes it feel so luxurious. 

It is a light grey colour which I apply quite lightly (this jar will seriously last a long time). I apply all of my masks using a foundation brush - to literally 'paint' my face. This way I get so much more control over how the mask is applied &  I don't run the risk of ending up with it all in my hair. Then allowing it to dry completely, this generally takes around 10minutes, before washing away with warm water. 

My skin feels so nourished, hydrated and cleansed, it really is incredible to find a mask which ticks all 3 boxes. 

Deep cleansing and radiance is achieved from the rich kaolin clay. The addition of pohutukawa extract from New Zealand helps tone & regenerate while rosehip & evening primrose provide nourishment & hydratration. 

I have actually done a few quick snapchat reviews & talk throughs whilst wearing the mask to show exactly how cool this mask is - you can literally see the oil being extracted from your skin and drawn to the surface. HELLO beautiful clear skin! 

I was struggling with deep congestion due to wearing long wear foundation but I have found with applying this mask twice (ok maybe three) times a week my skin have definitely improved. 

Overall this mask leaves my face feeling cleansed, pores refined with a nice glow - I can easily say this is my favourite face mask.

What face masks have you been enjoying? I would love to know! 

Talk Soon, S x. 

DIY: Mermaid Ombre Mason Jars

Hey Lovelies,

A few weeks ago I posted a photo on my instagram of a DIY project which I was working on. I have since had quite a lot of interest (** cough ** xxbrittersblog **cough**) in how I made them.

They really were very simple, cheap & didn't take that long to make at all. (winning)

What you will need:

Mason Jars
Acrylic Paint
Glitter
Sponge (I got mine in the car wash section of Kmart for $1.50)
Craft Glue (you want one that will dry clear)

What to do:

1. Spread out an old sheet or newspaper to protect the area you are working on
2. Cut up large sponge into 8 or so pieces
3. Mix paints to make desired colours
4. Sponge paint onto mason jars

Tip 1: If you want a 'shiny finish' - similar to the plain pink jar - sponge inside the jar rather than the outside.

Tip 2: If you want an ombre affect - choose 3 colour which you want to make the ombre - I chose Blue, Purple & light pink - using a fresh sponge for each and gently overlapping each colour - go from the darkest to lightest shade.

5. Wait until paint has dried
6. Using a fresh sponge apply craft glue to desired areas - working in sections is easiest.
7. Pour glitter into a small bowl and sprinkle over glue. (I found pouring was easier & then pouring the fall out off the plate back into the bowl to reuse on the next section)

Tip 3: I mixed glitter colours together to help give a more mermaid/ombre affect.

And thats it - your done, you now have these cute mermaid inspired mason jars.

I use them as candle holders and also to store my make up brushes - but you can really use them for anything!

I have also made a quick video to help demonstrate how I made them.. BUT blogger won't allow me to upload it directly - If you want me to make a full video and upload it to my youtube channel please let me know & I would be happy to do so.

Happy DIY!

Talk Soon, S x.

June Favourites

Hello Lovelies!

Can you believe it is July already? This year is truly flying! As much as I want it to slow down, I am definitely ready for the warmer months to be here.

I have actually found quite a few products over the past 2 months & I am excited to share them with you.

I finally purchased a few products which I had been considering for quite a while - & now, I don't know why I waited so long.

If you want to see all the products and more detail about each I have posted a video on my youtube channel including all the products I have been loving if you would like to check it out.

Make sure you comment with your current favourite products, I love hearing what products you have been trying and enjoying.

Talk Soon, S x.

Face Mask Focus: Glam Glow Supermud

So I have been thinking for a while - I have a serious love for face masks & I don't really ever get a chance to share that. So I will be sharing a Face Mask Focus on all that I test and try.

That way you can learn from my purchasing mistakes as well lol.

Firstly I wanted to share a product from a range I have great love for. GLAMGLOW

Few things though, I personally don't see the value in buying the larger sizes due to them actually drying out before I can use all of the product. I definitely recommend getting samples of the products first - I found the tingle of the youth mud to be far more intense than the super mud. To the point I almost panicked - so it definitely wouldn't be suited to all.

I have a full review and demo of the super mud on my youtube channel, make sure you check it out to find out more.

Talk Soon, S x.

7 Tips to Keep Lips Kissable

With winter well & truly with us here in Australia, I thought I would share a few quick tips to help keep that pout pretty!

1. Hydrate - I know you have heard it before.. but hydrating from the inside out will keep those lips looking healthy and not chapped.

2. Deep Moisture - I reconmend a good lip product to apply just before bed. We have all been there, waking up and moving your mouth only to find the movement cracks your lips. Not only does it not look good - but it is very painful as well. I recommend Chapstick Natural Paw Paw Lip Balm with 8hr moisture, Hurraw! Natural/Vegan Lip Balm or Kora Vitamin Enhanced Lip Balm - depending on your price range.

3. Exfoliate - Every morning when you brush your teeth, exfoliate those puckers - this will also make them look a little more plump.

4. Licking your Lips - avoid avoid avoid!! Licking your lips is actually a sign of dehydration so If you do find yourself licking your lips then have a big glass of water. Licking your lips will also make them worse and dehydrate then further - apply a lip balm instead.

5. Avoid Matte - If your lips are slightly dehydrated then its best to avoid the matte products. This will only make matters look and feel worse. I would suggest trying something soothing & hydrating like the new Rimmel Oh My Gloss - enriched with Argan Oil & added Vitamin E.

6. Coconut oil - I highly recommend a coconut oil treatment once a week to give an even better and deeper hydration.

7. Don't Bite - Even I am guilty of this one, biting your lips may add colour but you will also do damage and potentially cause your lips to bleed.

I hope you have found these tips helpful, please leave any of your tips & tricks in the comments below.


Talk Soon, S x.

Get Hooked - Bait Hair Perfume Review

Everyone wants to leave a lasting impression right! That stand out factor that leaves people thinking WOW! That is why Bait Hair Perfume is the perfect product for you. 

Curiosity Gets Me Every Time ...

If any of you are like me & suffer from a slight shopping addiction then this may have caught your eye as well...

Around a year ago I became aware of the world of subscription services & yes it sucked me right in. Surprise gifts at your door every month!! Seriously just take my money!

20 Facts About Me

Happy Monday! Hope everyone has had a wonderful weekend. 

I was tagged by Kelly (IG: makeupgeek22) in the 20 facts about me tag.

I have been meaning to do this post for a while now but kinda thought my 20 facts weren't that interesting #nanalife #granniesunite 

Anyway here we go..

5 Mother's Day Gifts under $80

With Mother’s day quickly approaching I thought I would put together a quick gift guide for any of you who may have been stuck with what to buy.

While compiling this list I have aimed to keep it more on the ‘budget’ side with a range of different gifts all under $80.

So let’s get straight into it.

1. Bella Box Limited Edition Mother’s Day Box - $30/$50

If you’re a little stuck on what to get Mum or if she is just a little hard to buy for, then the gift boxes are a perfect present. They range from $30 - $50 with up to $200 worth of goodies in the box. There are a few different editions; young & fun, the socialite & a standard mother’s day edition. With so many options there will be one to suit everyone.

Click here to order yours now.

2.     Heavenly Hands Duo - $75

We all know our Mums work overtime and deserve the most luxurious items of life. Well this hand wash & cream due is the perfect touch of luxury to any bathroom or morning routine. The duo will leave the hands feeling super silky and lightly scented whilst also added that much needed moisture – especially in these cooler winter months.

Purchase in store at Mecca Cosmetica or click here to purchase online.

.   

3. Flow Book for Paper Lovers 2 - $40 aud inc shipping

I recently came across these books & I will be honest, I did slightly loose my marbles at how awesome they were – yes that is my inner geek showing through. The book contains 300 pages of amazing paper goodness. I am talking; mini-envelopes, posters, a letter garland, stationery, craft paper, colouring pages, gift wrapping, labels, a flip-up house, stickers, paper dolls, gift bags and more.. seriously the book is endless!

To purchase click here!




4.    Glasshouse BIRDS OF A FEATHERPINK SORBET Candle - $42.95

There is nothing better than a new candle & this beautiful delight will not disappoint. With a stunning blend of Grapefruit, Lemon & Watermelon, it will definitely get those senses tingling. Not to mention the seriously amazing packing but also 5% of recommended retail price from this candle will go to The McGrath Foundation.

You can purchase Glasshouse candles from Peter Alexander, David Jones, Adorne or directly from their website.

www.glasshousefragrances.com

5.    A sweet Kikki K card with beautiful bloom (as seeds) - $10

Now this is easily my cutest gift idea and for those on a budget, & most definitely the gift that keeps on giving. Kikki K have the most adorable cards, so pick up your favourite & give it to mum with a packet of seeds containing her favourite flowers. She will be able to plant them in the garden and have a constant reminder of the wonderful daughter or son that you are.

I really hope you have enjoyed these gift ideas. If you already have your gift organised, please leave a comment below and let me know what bought! 

Talk Soon, S x. 

Review: Rimmel BB Radiance and Lasting Finish 25HR Powder

Rimmel have launched two new products recently, The first being a new addition to the current BB cream line, BB Radiance - Rimmel’s first skin-perfecting makeup that illuminates skin with a natural, healthy looking glow! This product is available in three shades. (Very Light, Light & Medium – I am using Medium)

The second product is a 25hr lasting powder, available in four shades. (01 Light Porcelain, 02 Soft Beige, 03 Silky Beige and 05 Warm Honey - I am using soft beige)

I initially had been using these products together as I much prefer a matte finish & have found previously when using other BB creams that I was left feeling greasy and heavy feeling. However I have found this BB cream sits quiet well on my skin & I did actually receive a few comments around the ‘glowyness’ of my face.  

The BB cream claims to have a 9 in 1 formula that primes, smooths, conceals, minimizes pores, moisturizes, brightens, provides natural coverage, and awakens tired skin. The formula is also meant to contain a Vitamin C Complex which awakens tired skin, along with an SPF 20 to protect.

The Lasting Finish powder is a powder to foundation formula - my favourite of all powder formulas. I enjoy that this powder is quite light on the skin but also very buildable for additional coverage as it claims. 

I have been enjoying the finish of these products whilst used together, finding they provide a light coverage which still allows for a very fresh & flawless glow. It is the perfect base for my 'no make up make up' look for those days when I want to look put together but want to put in minimal effort - or on those days when I press that snooze button one too many times.  

Below is a swatch of the BB cream in the shade Medium. It at first appears a tad too dark for me but once blended into the skin is an ok match. I found applying this product with my fingers worked the best for me. 

And Before & After photos with the BB cream & both BB cream & Lasting Finish Powder.

I hope you have enjoyed this post. Please leave me a comment with any questions you have about this product or if you have used it, please tell me your thoughts. 

Talk Soon, S x. 

Be Wild Be Free

Hello loves,

I recently watched the movie WILD with Reece Witherspoon & it got me thinking, if you were driven to the edge - what extreme would you go to set yourself free. And I am talking to the complete and ultimate edge - its actually a scary thought.

In the movie she pushes her boundaries and battles her demons while completing the unthinkable.

Each and everyone of us deals with problems in our own weird & wonderful ways.. Sometimes you just have to focus on you and do what you need to do to improve your life.

As they say the quieter you become the more you hear. This movie really brought this into saying into perspective.

Have any of you guys seen it? What did you think of the movie?

Talk Soon, S x.

My Secret to Clearer Skin

Recently I re-introduced a product to my skin care routine. To be honest I am not sure why I stopped. I was telling my friends about it and how much I am impressed with the results, only to be surprised at how little some new about Glycolic Peels.

I have been using the John Plunketts Essentials Glyco Peel along with the collagen lift moisturiser, which I was lucky enough to receive in my goodie bag from the Obsession Beauty Event.

Often a glycolic peel will be used in conjunction with a facial when at the spa. (and who doesn't love going to the spa). However this did provide a handy alternative to do from the comfort of your own home and for a fraction of the price. 

This peel is of clinical strength with 25% glycolic acid, ideal to be used at night time. I use a small amount and smooth over my entire face and allowing to dry before applying the moisturiser. (You will be surprised how long this 'small' 15ml tube actually lasts) The peel works by exfoliating the most outer layer of skin, helping to remove any old and dull cells sitting on the skin surface. Initally there is a slight tingling sensation but this quickly disappears. Glycolic peels work fabulously for people with pimples or acne, uneven skin colouring. The wonderful thing about the John Plunketts peel is that it also contains two additional ingredients, lactokine & aloe vera, to ensure the peel does not result in any inflammation or dryness.  

I will sleep in this peel & wash off with my morning cleanser. Initially I applied this peel on two consecutive nights, then allowing my skin a night off before applying for two more consecutive nights. This was to kick start the process and give my skin the boost it needed. I will now use this peel twice weekly to ensure my skin is maintained. I should mention my skin is slightly more on the sensitive side and I have not had any issues with becoming dry or irritated.

After only using this product for 2-3 weeks I can honestly say my skin is completely transformed. Prior to using this peel I was struggling with congestion in my forehead. No amount of normal exfoliation was able to provide results. I have also noticed that my skin has a more even tone and has an amazing revitalised glow. I definitely feel a few years younger! Hooray!

As always remember when using any sort of peel type products or treatments your skin may become more sensitive to the sun – it is (as always) very important to ensure you are wearing a daily sun cream to help protect your new amazing skin.

I would love to hear your thoughts if you have used any glycolic peel products & which are your favourite.

You can purchase the Glyco Peel direct from www.plunketts.com.au retailing for $29.95 or Priceline & selected pharmacies. 

Talk soon, S x. 

March Favourites

Happy Thursday!

I thought I would just quickly share my favourites for the month of March. I have been reaching a mixture of both new products & some old favourites. If you want to see what these products are, check out my previous video here.

Also remember to subscribe to be notified when I upload new videos. 

Talk Soon, S x.  

Let It Be

I recently watched a video by one of my all time favourite YouTuber's Meghan Rienks, regarding her depression story. Depression & Anxiety is something I do not take lightly. I was genuinely touched by her story and could relate on a very personal level. 

So I guess this week’s words of wisdom kind of flow on from my previous post about being a ‘Warrior vs Worrier’. 

– Let it Be –

'It’s a saying I have said over to myself an uncountable number of times. Well what I generally say is ‘let it be & what will be, will be!

I am a big believer & advocate for the law of attraction, so what you put out you will receive – karma if you will. I believe the universe is very powerful & everything has a place & purpose in the world – sometimes we just can’t see or make sense of it just yet. When I find things are spiralling out of control & I just can’t slow it down (control freak I know) I just repeat these words over & over and find a calm sensation takes effect. It’s like a quiet reminder that there is something bigger than me and everything will be ok.

This may come across a little drastic to some but I know there are a lot of people out there that struggle with anxiety and other issues. I just wanted to share something which has helped me through some very tough times.

Do you have a person mantra? I would love to hear what you do to help calm the nerves and jitters in the comments below. 

Talk Soon, S x

Metabolism Booster Elixir

Happy Easter to you all!

Now I know this may be very loosely 'foodie' but I wanted to share with you all one of my favourite morning rituals. Especially considering the cooler months are upon us here in Australia. What I am about to share with you will not only kick start your metabolism each morning but will also help to boost your immune system. Double Whammy! WoOoo!

Now your probably thinking hurry up.. Spill the beans already!

Presenting to you my morning elixir! (I just love
that word!)

Ingredients:

Apple Cider Vinegar (I use one containing 'the mother')
Fresh Lemon
Ginger Juice
Cayenne Pepper
Raw Honey

Instructions:

Mix ingredients in a glass or small jar and add a small amount of warm water. 

Drink before eating in the morning.

Handy Tip:

If you don’t have a juicer that will properly juice ginger or small roots, then slice a large knuckle of ginger and boil it on the stove with approx. 1 cup water. Allow to boil until the water is mostly ginger, and then store it in a jar in the fridge.

By drinking this little potion first thing in the morning your body will be able to absorb the nutrients quickly. This drink is filled with so much goodness and contains so many health benefits. Along with assisting the digestive & immune systems, I find this also helps my skin and also gives me a little spring in my step! 

When I feel good inside, I just feel like everything else goes more smoothly. This drink is just one of my many ways which I help keep my body happy from the inside out! 

Do you have any morning rituals which help set you up for a wonderful day?

Talk Soon, S x. 

TOP 5 MAC LIPSTICKS

Hello Ladies & Welcome back to my blog. 

Now that I am aiming to blog weekly so if you have any suggestions on topics you would like to see covered please leave me a comment, I am open to all suggestions!

This week I would like to chat about the Holy Grail item of MAC Lipsticks or more lovingly known as – our MAC Soldiers.

I was sorting through my MAC lipsticks recently and compiled my ‘top 5’ current favourites.

I definitely have a few more on my hit list including, Blankety, Velvet Teddy, Coral Bliss, Morange, Up the Amp & Rebel. Will the list ever end?

So without further ado my TOP 5 MAC LIPSTICKS.

These beauties can be picked up at your nearest MAC Counter or online at www.maccosmetics.com.au & retail for $36 AUD each.

1.    Lady Danger 

2.    Sweet & Sour

3.    Snob

4.    Faux

5.    Shanghai Spice

Make sure you leave me a comment letting me know what your favourite MAC lipstick shade is or what is in your must buy list. Also do you know any good dupes? I am always trying to find good dupes for MAC Lipsticks.

Talk soon, S x.

Exciting News

Hello my beautiful readers ❤

I have some very exciting news to share with you!

From next week I will be adding some special posts to my blog...

These posts will be in addition to my makeup, health & lifestyle posts.

So without further ado, I would like to share with you -

Wednesdays Wisdom & Foodie Friday

These posts will hopefully enlighten & inspire.

If you have any topics you would like me to discuss please leave a comment below. I would love to hear your thoughts on my new themed days. !

Talk soon, S x.

My Most Used Blush Products

Hi Beauties, I thought this week I would share with you some of my favourite blush products at the moment. I have so many blush products – these would be close to my favourite make up products, although I could never pick a favourite!

So let’s jump straight into it and get blushin’!

1.       Mac Gingerly

I purchased this shade at the recommendation of a MAC Consultant whilst on holiday in New York. I was a bit hesitant on the shade due to its earthy bronze appearance. This is my definite go to blush when I am unsure of which blush I want to wear. It pairs perfectly with any strong eye or lip look. It gives the perfect flush of colour, although I would suggest a light hand when using on paler skin tones.

Price: $41.00

Where to Buy: Mac Cosmetics Stores

2.       Milani Baked Blush Luminoso

I purchased this baby online due to lack of availability in Australia. At first I was taken aback at how glittery this product appeared in the pan. I was pleasantly surprised at how wonderful this product transferred on my skin. This product gives a soft & subtle peach glow. The colour payoff and lasting power is fantastic, I really can’t fault this product. My only issue is the packaging, I feel it could be more compact & less bulky but that is far from a deal breaker for me.

Price: $10.88

Where to Buy: BeautyJoint

3.       Essence Blush up Heat Wave

The ombre trend has been hot lately & has definitely transitioned from hair to make up. Essence has done a fantastic job transitioning these vibrant orange & pink shades to create the perfect blush ombre. I was really impressed with the coral/orange/pink pigmentation of this products and the wear ability with a satin finish. I love the fact that this product is actually 3 in 1 in regards to shade choice.

Price: $7.15

Where to Buy: Priceline

4.       NYX Mocha

My favourite NYX blush to date, I would think this colour would suit majority of skin tones. It is a beautiful dark rose/peach pink matte shade – I don’t feel Mocha is really an appropriate name for it. Regardless the product is so flattering and pigmented.

Price: $9.95

Where to Buy: Target

5.       Inglot #20

For a long time I never considered Inglot products and I’m not really sure why. I definitely have become a little bit Inglot obsessed and my collection is growing. Let me just say Inglot products are AMAZING! The blushes are creamy & pigmented and the best part – they don’t have the high price tag that a lot of other products in Australia have. The product can be slightly dusty at times but they are very workable & blend easy. The shade #20 is the perfect soft matte pink shade. It gives the cheeks a hint of colour to brighten the face without being ‘too much’.

Price: $11.00

Where to Buy: Inglot Stores

I hope you guys have enjoyed reading a little about 5 of my favourite blush products. I would love if you left a comment with your current favourite Blush’s.

Much Love, S xx