ProActiv Haul/acne skin problems

I'm so excited! Today I went shopping, with the thought in mind that I would be buying the ProActiv Acne system. For anyone that doesn't already know, this is now sold in the U.K, in Boots stores for £39.99. Anyway, when I got to Boots, I see they had a 3 for 2 offer on it. So, yes, I took advantage of that offer! So I got £120 worth of product for how much? Zilch, nothing, £0!! No I'm not lying... I used my Boots advantage card points! So, because of the offer, it cost £80 in points, but not a thing from my bank card/purse. I'm one happy girlie!

It's no secret to my followers that I haven't been blessed with the best skin. From the age of 12, I had breakouts and no amount of Clearasil/Oxy was going to clear it up. I eventually persuaded my mum to take me to the doctors, where he prescribed me all sorts of creams and lotions to help me. The one I ended up sticking with was a gel called Duac, which kept my spots under control a bit more and complimented my sensitive skin well. However, as he had warned me, after a while, my skin would become immune to the product and would no longer respond to the gel... and this is exactly what happened. A few years after I had started the treatment, my skin was now the worst it had ever been. With big breakouts on my forehead, cheeks and chin, my face to me, looked a state. It wasn't just the acne though...it was the scars that were left behind. I noticed my skin started getting a bit pitted, and knew it was time to do something immediately before I literally become scarred for life!

This is not a great pic, but I have deleted all the others. But anyway this was my skin before...with a tonne of makeup on!

I took myself to the Harley Medical Clinic for advice on what to do. The consultant recommended laser treatment. Although it was very expensive, by this time I was prepared to sell my car if needs be to get me nice skin (fortunately, that didn't have to happen)! That may sound bizarre, but I'm sure anyone that suffers from acne, would understand how much it can knock your confidence. Anyway, unfortunately my skin didn't respond to the laser treatment. Next, I was recommended a skincare system called Obagi. With this being the same price as the laser treatment, I was a bit hesitant in case that also wouldn't work. But, thank christ I trusted it! It was a system made up of 7 different products you use at home. Some you use in the morning, some in the evening. Within a couple of months of starting this, my skin had pretty much cleared up, my scars had faded and I had a huge smile on my face. I have been using it religiously since. 

 My skin after/during treatment :)

However, whenever I see adverts for Proactiv on the Tv, I had always been intrigued. Would it work for me? Would it be more affordable? Then the other week, when I see Katy Perry's gorgeous smooth face on the screen, and the bloke announcing the system was now available in the U.K, I knew I had to try it!! Now here I am with 3 boxes of the stuff! Each box contains enough product for 60 days.

Fingers crossed that this helps keep my spots at bay, just like the Obagi. 

I will be doing a review on it once I have been using it for a significant time.

Have any of you ladies had skin problems? What has worked for YOU? xx

And The Winner Is....

Ok, so today I finally managed to get to 100 followers!! Wooohooo. Thank you all soo much for following and taking the time to read/comment on my blog, it really means so much to me! 

As promised, I have counted up the entries and one was picked at random.

The winner of my first ever giveaway is...

MythicalKinkii

Congratulations!!!! I will be emailing you shortly to get your details for posting your prize.

Thank You ALL so much... keep your eyes peeled for my next giveaway!

Gina xx

Good News...!!

Today has been a very exciting day for me, not only did I receive my fab Carmine box, I also went for my first scan!! Yes, I'M PREGNANT!!!! It was an amazing feeling seeing our baby on the screen, and seeing the little heartbeat. It's such a relief knowing everything seems to be going well. So I done the big announcement today (close family/friends already knew), and everyones really pleased for us. Me and my partner are over the moon! Roll on September....(that's when I'm due by the way)

Love you all xx

Carmine February Box!

Eeeeeek, my Carmine box has arrived, hooray!! After reading a review on what was in it before it arriving, I was massively excited when it was in my hands. I pretty much ripped the box open, I think my partner thought I had gone crazy or something? haha! 

I have always said Carmine was my joint fave box with Feel Unique, but after FU's unfortunate demise, Carmine is my firm all time favourite box. It has not let me down once! I LOVE YOU CARMINE!! It's not too late to sign up for this box though guys, please click my referral link to sign up, and you will receive free delivery on your first box:

http://www.carmine.co.uk/0htfI

 

Right, first up we have...

Balance Me Rose otto Body Wash. Exquisitely fragranced in the name of spring, this natural body wash will leave your skin velvety smooth and smelling like heaven. For 10% off both body washes visit balanceme.co.uk and use code CARMINEWASHES2012. Exp 30th April 12.  

Body washes will always get used by me, although I do have a long line of them waiting to be used. This is just the first full size item this month, at 125ml, and being a fan of Balance Me, I'm sure this will be a treat to use.

Next, the Andrea Fulerton Nail Varnish in Eliza. Developed by celebrity nail technician Andrea Fulerton, These popular shades are incredibly glossy and long lasting. Try it and you'll be up there with celeb clients including Mishca Barton, Kyle Minogue and Penelope Cruz. 

Well, if Kylies a fan, then so am I! There are 6 different colours available from the Carmine boxes, and I received a gorgeous shimmery Turquoise colour. As much as I love this colour, I doubt I will get much use from it because of work, which is such a shame! It's Nice bright colour for spring. This is the 2nd full sized item this month, at 5.5ml.

 Diego Dalla Palma The Lipstick in shade #42. From one of Italys top brands, this sophisticated, intense pigment lipstick provides the perfect touch of long lasting colour. Chic and en Vougue, It's all you need for La Dolce Vita. 

This little lipstick is sooo cute, about the same size as the Jane iredale lippy from JB's box. I received this in shade #42, which is a reddish brown copper kind of colour. This is not a colour I would normally wear, I tend to steer clear of browny colours, and head towards brighter colours instead, but I will definitely give it a go. Perfect size for popping in your pocket at work. It also has a gorgeous smell, which is something I've smelt before but I can't quite put my finger on (help!!!). 

White Glo Professional Choice Whitening toothpaste (24g). Get ready to brush your way to a perfect smile, a la Jessica Alba. From the Australian Brand that makes formula's for coffee and tea drinkers, just a drop of this whitening toothpaste will leave your pearly whites in mint condition! 

I was so excited to receive this, as it's a product I have never seen/received in a beauty box before. I'm a big fan of any teeth whitening products, so will be giving this a definite go... and will be sure to hide it from my partner. Although I'm not sure that a toothpaste is going to make my smile like Miss Albas!

Steam Cream Steam infused skincare. These colourful tins are designed in Japan contain the latest concept in skincare: a lightweight, all in one moisturiser featuring nourishing oils - that can be used literally from head to toe. Explore Steamcream's full at steamcream.com. Receive 20% off your next purchase using the code carmine20. Exp 30th April 12.

I am so damn excited to use this product, I have heard so many rave reviews about it. This is the 3rd and final full size item in this months box. I'm in love with the cute little tin also, I got the seashell design, but there are lots of gorgeous designs available. Because of my oily skin, I won't be using this on my face, but as it's an all round moisturiser, I'll be treating my hands and body to it.

As an extra, we also received a perfume sample, which I hate when it's included as one of our 5 products, but love it when they're added as an extra, which Carmine does very well. 

Yardley London Peony Fragrance. This Fresh, Feminine fragrance, captures the scent of the delicate peony flower and compliments it with delightful fruity notes and warm amber undertones.

So an absolutely brilliant box once again from Carmine, with some gorgeous products packed in!
I love the fact there were 3 full sized items this month, some other boxes (I won't name names), barely manage to put in one!

It's not too late to sign up to receive this box, please use my referral link below and you will receive free delivery on your first box:

Sign Up for this box Here.

http://www.carmine.co.uk/0htfI

What do you think about this box?

Carmine Beauty Box!

Ladies (and gents?), I have just seen a blog review for the February Carmine box despite delivery being only yesterday, and I have to say, it looks absolutely a-maze-ing! I love it so much, I actually think its made my weekend...and my box isn't even here yet! So to all my fellow Glossy box and Jolie box subscribers who may have been a bit let down with their boxes, this is just the pick me up I think you'll need. Everyone needs a special treat, right?

Sign up to Carmine NOW in order to receive the Feb box. 

Please use my referral link (below), which will also mean you receive free delivery for your first box! ...

http://www.carmine.co.uk/0htfI

Here

As soon as my box arrives, I will be doing a review on it.

I can't waittttt :)

P.s. Please let me know if you would like the link to the blog review on the Feb box, didn't want to post it for the people who don't want to ruin the surprise.

xx

Jolie Box February Review.

Today I arrived home from work to the (VERY) long awaited Jolie Box. Before customers had even started receiving their boxes this month, Jolie Box were already in many customers bad books. They claimed to have posted these out on Friday second class, however, even 5 days after delivery, a lot of customers had still not received them. I've received 2 other parcels this week sent both 2nd class, which were delivered to me within 2 days. What makes matters worse is Jolie's poor customer service. When customers try to get answers on their Facebook page, Jolie always reply with the same scripted messages, which are no help what so ever.
Anyyyywayyy, enough moaning...for now. So I open my Box to find the much anticipated bag they promised, which was inside the box. Not sure if I prefer it so the shredded paper, as that always comes in handy with presents/parcels, but it's not as bad as I thought it was going to be.

First item:

Taaj Himalaya Micellar Water. An antioxidant and tonic makeup remover that will revitalise and purify skin. This is a decent size item, at 100ml, but I doubt I'll be getting any use from it as I use medicated cleansers for my skin. I found the full sized item of this (500ml) on the Internet for just under £10.

Lavera Basis Sensitive Organic Hand cream. An organic hand cream with shea butter and almond extracts. A cute 20ml size, which is suitable for carrying in your handbag or pocket. I get through quite a bit of hand cream, so this is a welcome member to my large collection. After testing, it's left my hands very smooth and hydrated, without that greasy feeling. Has a nice expensive kind of scent, without being overpowering.

Macadamia Deep Repair Masque. This ultra conditioning hair masque will rebuild damaged hair for improved shine and elasticity. Win! I love Deep hair masques, and I loveee Macadamia. I've recently ordered their hair oil after finding it a million times better than Moroccan Oil. As happy as I am for receiving this item, my only criticism would be the sachet. Yes, it's a generous 30ml, but I find sachets so hard to use. Would have been a lot more practical if it was in a little tube or something? But hey ho, can't get everything we want, right?

Kimia Rejuvenating Facial System. This facial oil and hydra-activator will nourish and heal the skin. I received this in 2 little bottles of 1ml and 3ml. At £74 for the full sized system (30ml/100ml), it seems like quite a luxurious product. I won't be using this I doubt as I try to steer well clear of any facial products containing oil, my skin produces enough of it naturally, thanks! I know some of you received the alternative which was the cleansing oil, and it was a sachet. As you probably know by now, I'm not a sachet fan at the best of times. But what clever clogs thought of an oil in a sachet?! Seriously, that must be a nightmare to use, so I do feel for you guys!

Jane Iredale Just kissed Lip and Cheek Stain in Forever Pink. An all natural, multi-purpose stain that adjusts its colour to your mood and temperature. Wow, what a claim that is! This is a very cute size, and as soon as I see the colour, I knew it was a keeper. The colour being like a coral pink, my absolute fave colour! It smells gorgeous, very fruity and summery, although the colour when applied is not as pigmented as I thought it may be. It has the most subtle colour, so will be used by me as more of a lip balm. Although the colour intensity may change when my mood/temperature does? Hmm can't see that happening lol.





New subscribers also received a Jolie concealer brush which the rest of us got in our Christmas Boxes.

All in all I didn't find my Jolie Box too bad, especially when compared to the diabolical February GlossyBox. However, compared to their previous boxes, and the a-maze-ing French Jolie Box, it's definitely not spectacular. There are a few items I'll get good use from, so I'm content. I think the main disappointment for me was the fact they had a month off in Jan to sort their issues out, and the fact we were kept waiting (and possibly lied to), the box just didn't match up to our expectations.
I know a lot of you were very unimpressed with your boxes and service from Jolie Box, and I'm sure they've lost a good few subscribers.

What do you think ladies?

GlossyBox Feb 2012 review

So it's that time of the month yet again where we're all jumping on the postie as soon as he approaches our door in the hope he's bought us a little box of goodies. Woooohoooo. Glossybox time!

My excitement soon faded as I was handed the box. It was a lot lighter in weight than other boxes. Yes, I admit I had checked up reviews etc before receiving mine, and immediately I knew I had received the 'dud' box. The one no-one wanted to receive. Apparently, according to some research done my some other disappointed customers, there's a massive £18 between the value of the boxes. I always seem to get the cheaper box :-/

Okay hereee we go...

Dr. Bronners Liquid soap. A combination of organic extra virgin coconut, olive, jojoba and hemp oils together with essential oils. I got this in the Peppermint scent, and will probably use it to clean makeup brushes or something? At a whopping £1.99 for a full sized bottle, GlossyBox has totally summed up 'Luxury' in just this one item. OR NOT. I think it's time GB changed their company info, because I actually think it's quite misleading, claiming we will receive 5 Luxury items. Anyone with me on that?

Paul Mitchell Round Trip liquid curl definer. This liquid curl definer is fast drying for enhanced curls in an instant. This is a small 25ml sample and will be absolutely no use to me what so ever. I have naturally polka straight hair and have to achieve my curls by a wand, so I doubt spraying this in my hair is going to do much.

DuWop Lip Venom Gloss in Buttercup. Combining subtle tinted lip gloss with Duwops Lip venom to create Venom Gloss. Hmmm another small sized item, just 5ml. This may get shoved in my makeup bag if it's lucky for the occasional use. Although I've heard some rave reviews about this product, I'm not too sure on the frosted colour.

Enter GlossyVG12 for 20% discount on any full size venom gloss. Valid until 31st March.

Bm Beauty Pure Mineral Eyeshadow in Storm Cloud. Award winning pure mineral eyeshadow. Cruelty free and suitable for vegetarians and vegans. This is yet another small sized item, at just 1g. The colour I received is like a khaki grey colour. I seem to always receive eye makeup items in Green, which is one of the only colours I wouldn't wear. I haven't got the greenest eyes ever, but they have a bit of green, so using green eye makeup would make my eyes look invisible! Another item that won't be getting used.

And lastly, Como Shambhala body lotion. A revitalising blend of essential oils that puts you in a perfectly uplifted mood. Great, another body lotion wooohooo. (that was sarcasm). Body moisturisers/lotions seem to be a staple in boxes these days, so I have huge collection right now which is going to take me literally years to use up. This has a scent similar to the Neom moisturiser, just a tad more medicinal.

So my thoughts? Well by my naff review you can probably gather what I think of this absolute joke of a box. It's definitely time for Glossybox to stop claiming that we will receive Luxury products, as this could not be further from the truth. Every month I continue my subscription in the hope they'll pull something out of the bag, and they rarely do. Attached with this months box was this little card...

So, expect the unexpected? This unexpected thing best be absolutley magnificently amazing, otherwise I think you're going to lose quite a few subscribers GB... I know this little card hasn't stopped a lot of people though.

Ladies, What are your thoughts? Was you one of the lucky ones to receive the better box?

Review on Beauty Box items.

Before I get started on my new post, just a quick reminder to enter my FIRST EVER GIVEAWAY. It's located under the January tab. Thank you and goooood luck!!

So I had a bit of a pamper the other day and used a few Beauty Box items I had not yet got round to trying. Some impressed me more than others...

 First up, the Nuxe multi use oil. I have received this in 2 boxes, most recently the Feel Unique box and there were quite a lot of people raving about this product. I had used it before on my hair and wasn't too impressed. But this time I decided I would treat my body to it. And it was lovelllllyyyy. Just what my dry skin needed after being suffocated under these thick winter jumpers!! It provided a much needed deep moisturise and made my skin feel lovely, soft and so so smooth.

 

The Phyto Express conditioner was also from Feel Unique, from their January box. I love receiving conditioners in boxes as I need loadssss of it, having hair extension and all that. It take lots of maintenance. Although this conditioner wasn't bad, It's not what I would look for in one. It was definitely not rich enough to provide my locks with the moisture they need. So this would be an item I wouldn't consider repurchasing. For any other hair extension addicts out there, I found Herbal Essences a fab, cheap range that do the trick. I alternate this brand with a more expensive brand (normally balmain or Kerastase), to keep the cost down as much as possible.

Ok, I've just realised all of the items I tried out were from Feel Unique (I'm gonna miss that box!). This is an item I've fallen in loveeee with. My skins been breaking out a bit more lately so I was excited to try this, Decleors Natural Exfoliating cream. I used it before bed, as I knew my unruly skins immediate reaction wouldn't be pretty. Basically you smooth the cream over your face, wait a little while for it to work its magic, then rub it off (as well as all that dead skin), with your fingers. Was a very strange experience, and immediately after my skin was bright red! But by the next morning, It was lovely and smooth, my makeup went on smoother, and after a few days, my skins definitely been breaking out less. WIN!

Whats been your all time fave product from a beauty box??

The LAST EVER Feel Unique Beauty box :(

As you may or may not know, the reason why this post is labelled the LAST EVER Feel unique box, is because yesterday, they announced they were stopping their beauty boxes. BOOOHOOO!! I will post the email they sent their customers at the end of this post. I was real shocked and sad when I found out because, although last months box wasn't great, overall I'm in love with FU boxes. And THIS one is nooo exception. What a box to sign off with!

Firstly, a product which I was gutted I didn't receive when alot of others did with GlossyBox...Philip Kingsley Elasticizer (40ml)! I absolutely cannot wait to use this one. It's had rave reviews, and been named as a must have item for Chezza Cole. Well, if it's good enough for her, I guess it'll do for us then? HELL YEAH it will!! Can you tell I'm a bit excited??

This cult treatment will improve or maintain the quality and behaviour of your hair. Great for over-processed, dry and damaged hair (that's me!), the more frequent use of this intensive treatment formula, will give more restorative results. This item is to be used before shampooing, and left on for 10-20 mins.

Next is the Nuxe oil (10ml), which I have received in another beauty box before. Not that I'm complaining as I've used it a couple of times and really liked it. Besides, an oil in the winter is a must, as everything from skin to hair seems to dry up! I'll be using this on my body and hair to get it looking alive again! 

They say: A unique super activated formula to nourish, repair and soften face, body and hair in a single gesture. Mix a drop with your foundation and it will glide on smoothly on your skin for instant dewy radiance or pour a small amount in the palm of your hand and gently ruffle your hair for a natural sheen. Thumbs up!!

Thirdly is the Leighton Denny Nail polish (4.6ml) in Diamond Ivory. Now, I've received a Leighton Denny polish before and got on very well with it. With it's gorgeous intense colour, and the polish gliding on smoothly...I fell in loveee. So I was well chuffed when I received this in a natural shade so I can wear it at work.

They say: This expert and high performance nail colour is easy to apply, long lasting and chip resistant. The colour won't fade and keeps a high gloss shine day after day. 

Now a product which I'm sure alot of you will be excited for... Elemis Lime and Ginger hand and body wash!! I was well chuffed when I discovered an Elemis item laying in my box. I love Elemis products, and it's a brand I was yet to see pop up in a beauty box. It has a gorgeous exotic scent, and at 100ml, is a very decent size. Yet another thumbs up from me!

They say: This fresh and exotic wash has a beautiful, rejuvenating fragrance with a deep cleansing formula that lathers into a super rich, delicious formula for all over the body. Leaves your skin feeling fresh, clean, soft and nourished. Use in the shower morning and evening or as a hand wash throughout the day.

Next, yet ANOTHER product I have fallen in loveee with. The Decleor Phytopeel Natural Exfoliating Cream (15ml). I tried a tiny bit of this on my hand, and the area where I used this is so much softer and smoother, so looks like it's going to work wonders on my face.

They say: The soft cream formula gently exfoliates and smoothes, whilst eliminating impurities. A perfect at-home peel that adds a healthy glow to lack-lustre skin. Use once or twice a week on face and neck, gently massaging in upward circular motions and allow to dry. Remove excess with cotton pad.

We got a little extra item this month,  the Jean Paul Gaultier Kokorico EDT. It's a small 1ml bottle, but with the pump spray, it's ideal for popping in your hand bag.

Get 10% off all brands featured in your beauty box. 

Use code BBFEB10B at checkout to redeem. Expires 18/03/12

So an absolutly brilliant last box from Feel Unique. I will definately will miss them!  R.I.P FEEL UNIQUE BEAUTY BOXES.

As promised, here's the email they sent beauty box subscribers:

Dear gina, As a valued customer, I wanted to be the first to let you know that we’ve taken the decision to close our Beauty Box service. At feelunique.com we pride ourselves on delivering exceptionally high standards of value, service and quality and we're constantly reviewing the way we do things. Each month we've been listening and taking onboard all of your comments and ideas. We understand that like us, you love beauty and trying new things and it's with this in mind that we believe there's a better way of delivering a bespoke, high quality sampling service based on your individual needs. For this reason, we will be closing Beauty Box indefinitely as of this month. We realise this may come as a surprise and not without disappointment, but we would like to reassure you that we're working hard on perfecting our new and improved service which we are planning on launching in the coming months. If you are a Monthly Subscriber, your monthly subscription payment has now been terminated and no more payments will be taken. If you are an Annual Subscriber, a refund will be issued for the remaining months from March onwards. You will also receive a written confirmation of this in the post for your records. On behalf of feelunique.com I would like to thank you for your loyal custom and support and hope to see you again soon. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact our Beauty Box Care Team: Tel +44 (0) 845 643 0119, Email beautybox@feelunique.com. Here's to the next big adventure, watch this space… Kind Regards,

I now need to look for a new beauty box to sign up to? I'm thinking She Said Beauty?

Claim your FREE Graze box...

Hi guys, this post is totally not to do with beauty, but just like the next person, I'm a hugeee food lover!

I first heard about the Graze box on Facebook and signed up straight away with the promise of a FREE first box. And that is exactly what I got.

So, what is a Graze box? Basically, it's like a beauty box, but with natural food. It's a subscription service, with each box priced at £3.79 (with free delivery), but you can cancel at anytime. So you can sign up, enter the code I will be giving you shortly, get your free box delivered and then cancel (if you can bring yourself to, that is).

So this is how the box looks. I love that it's the perfect size to fit through my letter box, so I didn't have to take a cold trek to the Post Office when it was delivered whilst I was out. There is an option when you sign up to get them delivered as often as you like. So you can get one of these little babys everyday if you wish... although it'd work out quite expensive.

These were the four different foods I received in my first box:

• Korean Rice Crackers
• Fruit and Seed Flapjack
• Love Mix (dried fruit)
• Natural Vanilla Seeds.

There is an option  when you sign up to choose whether you would like to receive a healthy box or a nibble box, which is what I chose. And you can also rate all their different items, so they can pack your box depending on what you say you love and hate.

Oh and here is me enjoying the Flapjack in my lovely work uniform. It was soooo good, as was the rest of the food.

Ok so, if like me you have also fallen in love with the Graze box, you can sign up at www.graze.com. To claim your free box, enter code 235426DD .

Once you enter that code, you will receive you FIRST and FIFTH boxes free. I cancelled after my first box, and when I did so, they offered me my next 2 boxes at £2.99. 

This offer is for a limited time only

Guylashes...?!

Ok, so I read today my fave false eyelash brand, Eyelure, have released some 'natural' lashes...FOR MEN!! They have introduced both thick and fine varieties, aiming to be discreet with an invisible back bone. 

So ladies (and men, if you're reading), is this a step too far?! My personal opinion is YES! I think I'd find it a bit freaky if my boyfriend wore these. I'm not a fan of a very feminine bloke, and think I'd draw the line at a touch of fake tan. Luckily, I don't think my partner would go anywhere near them.

What are your opinions? Would you be attracted to a guy that wears falsies?

January: Glossybox Valentines special

Whats in my special edition Glossy box? ...