Face Masks

Skincare add-ons

So a couple of weeks ago I did a post on my basic skincare routine and it was exactly that, basic. It featured the five products I use every single day but on other days I add to my routine. So I decided it might be a good idea to do one or two add-ons to that post with treatment products, starting with masks.  

I chose to write about the two masks I reach for the most. One is perfect for when your skin is feeling dry and needs some life put back into it, the other great to really clean the skin and stop breakouts.

The moisturise boost

Origins Drink Up Intensive, Overnight mask. - 100ml, £22
I have dry skin and had my eye on this for so long. It's a little bit on the pricey side but it's been lasting me really well. It's called a 'mask' but I literally just slap it on at night and wash off in the morning so it's a great no fuss product. I use this probably once a week or more if my skin is looking a bit dull.
This is something you can really see the benefits of instantly. The next morning after using it my skin is so hydrated and looks more plump, it really is wonderful.
The big bonus is that it smells amazing. Apricots and Mango. Delicious.

On a side note: If this is a little too pricey for you the Soap and Glory Beauty Sleep Accelerator isn't the exact same but I do find it very similar. It also has the same wonderful texture and smell.

The Deep Clean

Super Facialist by Una Brennan, Tea Flower Pore Purifying Clay Mask what a mouthful - £8.99
I think it's always good to use a clay mask regularly and this is the one I always go to. Does the job at a wonderful price, what's not to love? It leaves your skin really clean and feeling fresh without drying it out. I use it once a week too and leave it on for five minutes before washing off. Absolutely love it, reduces breakouts as well as clearing any.

Two products that do exactly what I want from masks. However that won't stop me. Next to try on my wish list is the REN Glycolatic Radiance Renewal Mask and of course the famous Aesop Parsley Seed Masque!

Getting NARSissist

For those that don't know the NARSissist Palette was released in stores yesterday (to John Lewis and NARS counters excluding Space NK). The largest eyeshadow palette they've released containing 15 of their best-selling shades. It was a big deal, to say the least.

 However, I left London on the Friday and left the task of getting one to my sister. Ahhh my sister, 

what a hero.

 I spent my morning sat in a dark corner, biting my nails, shaking, awaiting a phone call to say it was mine.

 At 1.58 disaster struck...

"They told the lady at the front of the queue that they're sold out, but John Lewis has 50 left! I'M RUNNING NOW"

Imagine the emotions that ran through me. When my phone rang again I was unsure whether to answer. I let it ring thinking "What if she was unsuccessful, would I be able to handle the news?".  I had to be strong.

I answered.

"I just got the last one they had in the cupboard".

Haha, so maybe that was a bit of an extreme introduction but it's true. To me this is the biggest make-up release in a really long time and I'm not surprised everybody went crazy for it. 

If you travel as much as I do you'll also love this for its size and packaging. For 15 shades it's incredibly sleek and they waste no space. In most palettes they include a brush and I'm so glad this doesn't. I think 9/10 brushes that come with a palette are awful and even then I'll always have one I prefer. All it means is I have a bulky palette but only need 70% of it.
For £50 it's a splurge item for me but I'm really happy with it. Each pan has just less than 1g of eyeshadow so it has a worth of about £91. So not bad at all.

I've seen mixed reviews on the quality of the shadows in this palette but I have no problems with mine. The colours transfer beautifully. I'm already crazy in love with Fez and I've only owned it for a day. Other shades I've been using are Bellissima, Nepal and Coconut Grove. There's also not a single shade I don't like. I think the range of colours is absolutely perfect, you can really achieve any look. I used it last night when I went to a Strictly Come Dancing themed party and today for a casual look. 

If this is out of your price range then I wouldn't worry - I still love my Urban Decay palettes just as much and they do achieve similar looks! I just simply couldn't help myself!

If you've tried any other eyeshadow palettes you love, please share and let me know!