Best Makeup & Tips for Taking Selfies

If you've got instagram (or a phone with a camera) i bet you'v been taking some selfies, come on we've all done it! If you're not sure what a selfie is, Urban Dictionary describe it as "A picture taken of yourself that is planned to be uploaded to Facebook, Myspace or any other sort of social networking website. You can usually see the person's arm holding out the camera in which case you can clearly tell that this person does not have any friends to take pictures of them so they resort to Myspace to find internet friends and post pictures of themselves, taken by themselves. A selfie is usually accompanied by a kissy face or the individual looking in a direction that is not towards the camera." 

Now, before we get started I'm not saying you need to wear makeup to take a Selfie, but these are just some tips if you choose to take photo's wearing makeup.

1.The most important thing when it comes to doing make up is to apply it in natural light. This way you can avoid wearing foundation that's too dark/light and see clearly if everything looks ok.
2. Our under eye concealer is usually lighter than our foundation so pay extra attention when blending in. Flash photography really accentuates harsh lines creating a reverse raccoon effect.
3.. Make sure to use black liner and mascara as it gives more of a contrast and will help to make your eye colour 'pop'.
4. Applying blusher is a must otherwise skin can look washed out.
5. Don't skip lipstick otherwise your mouth will blend in with the rest of your face. Put on a bold lip or even something nude - depending on what look you're going for.
6. Last but most importantly, if you decided to take a selfie wearing make up do not add the hashtag #nomakeup or put "no make up on, lols i'm so ugly." The fine print of posting this picture reads, "I look really good without make up on and I want you to know."

What are your go-to products for taking cheeky selfies? Do you have any other tips to add?

Read More

New Blog Design!

After growing a very bored of my old blog design i decided it was time for a change. I've always tried to edit my blog layout myself (as you could probably tell!) but i'm not very good with html so i got a professional to do it this time! The incredibly talented team at Pipdig created my new layout. I simply told them what colour scheme i wanted and sent them some links to a few blog designs i liked and they quickly came up with the final design. I'm really pleased with how it turned out. There's less clutter, it looks more professional and is hopefully easier to navigate for you.

I hoping this will be a new chapter for Make Me Up. I plan on creating more unique and interesting content for you. I can't stand it when beauty blogs just post review after review, it's nice to change things up! This may mean i'll be posting less often but the quality will hopefully be better. I have a giveaway coming up in a few weeks just to say thank you for all your support, it means a lot to me!

I'd really recommend Pipdig if your looking to get your blog re-designed. Their prices start from just �5, check out the website here. What do you think of the new look? 

Read More

Rimmel Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation: Review + Free Sample

Rimmel are cranking out the new releases this Autumn/Winter. New Apocalips shades, Moisture Renew Lipsticks, Retro Glam Mascara and they've just announced Rita Ora will be collaborating with the brand soon. I'm still not sure whether i love or loathe Wake Me Up but I thought i'd give Rimmel's latest foundation offering a go. 

This is a liquid mousse so it has quite a thick texture but it still blends into the skin easily and doesn't feel cakey. I have the shade 'Ivory' which is the second lightest and is a tad too dark for my pale skin. As you can see from the swatch it has pink, almost grey undertones to it. I apply this with my RT flat foundation brush to get maximum coverage. This foundation leaves skin looking flawless and does a good job at covering redness and blemishes. I find i don't need to use concealer for my spots when i use this! I would describe the finish as velvety as it's not completely matte. 

Overall, great coverage, light-weight and affordable. For reference my skin type normal/combination. If you wanted a free sample of this, pick up this months copy of Boots free Health & Beauty magazine. 

Rimmel Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation �5.99 from Boots

Have you tried this foundation before, how did you get on?

Read More

Autumn Nail Polish Picks

Dark, berry shades ooze Autumn sophistication. I like to incorporate these autumnal shades into my wardrobe, on my face and on my hands! Here are a few Autumn nail polishes that i'll be reaching for this season..

Jacava London in Toffee Apple* �14.50 (LINK) 
Not only is this shade (and name) perfect for Halloween, the formula is 8-free - it contains no Formaldehyde, Camphor, Toulene, DBP, Parabens, Phthalates, Cellophane and is also cruelty-free and vegan friendly. The super classy packaging looks great on display and even better on nails. The brush touches the bottom of the bottle meaning no more wastage!
BeautyUK Gel FX Posh Polish in Crimson Rose �3.49 (LINK)
An intense velvet red with hints of burgundy. This new polish for BeautyUK is a delicious colour that looks glossy and gel like once applied. These polishes are great value and they come in loads of lovely shades!
Revlon Nail Enamel in Bewitching �6.49 (LINK)
A truly bewitching nail polish. The classic dark red suits all skintones and glides on smoothly. I love wearing this on my toes in the colder months.
No7 Stay Perfect Nail Colour in Temptress �6.00 (LINK)
This is the prefect colour if your looking for a dark nail polish but don't want to go for black. The crimson red needs two coats and dries quickly. Ideal for channelling your inner goth!

What do you think of dark nails? 
I love everything about Autumn, make sure you check out my other autumn related posts if you missed them!
Autumn Skincare Additions
Autumn Eye Make Up Trends
Autumn Berry Lipstick Favourites
Autumn Berry Ombre Lips tutorial 

Read More

Three Ways to Wear Blue Mascara

So blue mascara is nothing new; I bet your nan was rocking it way before your mum was born (mine still is). I understand if you're scared of trying it, when you think of blue mascara, stylish isn't the first word that comes to mind. But coloured mascara can be cool. Here are three different ways to wear blue mascara without looking too 80's. It's a great way to update your make up look if you're stuck in a rut.

1. If you want to try blue mascara but can't bare to part with your trusty black mascara, this look is perfect. Apply your favourite mascara to your top lashes then take the blue mascara and apply just to the bottom lashes. This makes brown/blues eyes really stand out.

2. Don't be scared, all over blue sounds so wrong but done right it looks so hot (cue Cara). To avoid looking too 80's don't wear matching blue eyeshadow. Instead go for a complimentary shade like copper. To keep the look simple add little or no eye liner and a light pink blush. Lip-wise opt for a berry hue with blue undertones to subtly compliment the mascara.

3. This last look is definitely the most wearable. Apply black mascara to the roots of your top lashes followed by placing blue mascara just on the tips for a dip-dyed effect. This is a really subtle take on blue mascara but still looks great. People will catch hints of blue every time you blink! Alternatively, put the blue mascara on your roots and black on the tips.

I used the new Eyeko Black Magic Mascara in Midnight Blue, �18.00 available from the Eyeko website here. 

Are you brave enough to try blue mascara? 

Read More

Jimmy Choo Perfume: Review

Jimmy Choo are famously known for their iconic footwear but did you know they also make fragrances? The newest addition to my perfume collection is Jimmy Choo's debut fragrance. Jimmy Choo launched a second fragrance, Flash, earlier this year - which I've sniffed and few times and love!

The fragrance is inspired by strong women, empowered, beautiful, alluring with a hidden and mysterious sense of confidence. With a blend of tiger orchid, sweet toffee and patchouli, this perfume is deliciously sweet and long lasting. Housed in a pale pink bottle this scent looks lovely on display. The box is also pink with a snakeskin design on it. It's one of those fragrances that just 'goes' with everything. Usually you'll have a day and a night fragrance but this seems to suit both. 

If you're a fan of sweet perfumes, definitely check this out. Jimmy Choo Eau De Parfum* �49.00 for 60ml available on the Debenhams website here or instore. 

*pr sample

Read More

Highstreet Concealer Favourites + Swatches

Revlon Photoready Eye Primer + Brightener �9.99

I was expecting not to like this very much but anything claiming to brighten tired eyes? I'm on that. This is marketed as a brigthener and a primer. Pop it under your eyes to help conceal darkness or place on lids before applying eyeshadow. The consistency of this light and easy to blend so won't feel cakey or crease. I have the shade 003 and as you can tell from the swatches it is very pink. This makes it great for blue-ish dark circles but i feel you need to layer it with a normal concealer or foundation on top. I like this as a primer too as it does help eyeshadow stay on longer. The only downside to this is the price, a little steep for Revlon! 

Seventeen Phwoarr Paint Under Eye Concealer �5.49

A new product from Seventeen and possibly the first concealer pot from a highstreet brand? I'd heard so many good things about the Bobbi Brown concealer i couldn't wait to give this cheaper dupe a go. I went for the lighter shade which looks dark in the compact but blended nicely once on the skin. I use my ring finger to apply this and it covers my dark circles reasonably well. As i have particularly bad dark cirles i pop Collection Illuminating Touch concealer on top of this. I would suggest useing an eye cream before applying this to avoid it going cakey. 

Collection Lasting Perfection �4.19

How could i write a post on highstreet concealers and not mention this? I don't want to say to much about this as i feel everyone and their mum has already tried this but i like it, a lot. I think i'll go on re-purchasing this because of the price, the shades, the availabilty and more importantly the coverage. Two layers of this over blemishes and dark circles and i'm good to go. 

Collection Illuminating Touch �4.99

I've always wanted to try the iconic Touche Eclat but i've been eschewing it as it's way out of my budget. I opted to try this as a cheaper alternative. The consistency of this is quite thick, however it is thinner than the Lasting Perfection concealer and easier to blend. This is marketed as an illuminating concealer but i have to say it's not that illuminating. However i do like using this but may try the L'oreal Lumi Magique one next to see how it compares. 

Bourjois Healthy Mix Concealer 10ml �7.99

I like the Healthy Mix foundation so i thought i'd give this a go. This provides medium coverage and slightly brightens without being overly shimmery. It can feel a little powedery after applying so i would avoid this if you suffer from very dry skin. I have shade 51 which is a good match for my pale skin. I like using this under my eyes or on any red blemishes. 

Maybelliene Fit Me �5.99

I picked up the lightest shade which is still  to dark for me so i'm saving this for the summer. This medium coverage concealer has an almost gel like texture which blends easily to a natural finish. I only use this under eyes as it helps to brighten tired skin and conceals them well. 

What are your concealer favourites? On my wishlist is the Rimmel Wake Me Up concealer, Seventeen Staytime and L'oreal Lumi Magique - let me know if you've tried them!

Read More

Autumn Skincare Additions

I blimming love buying new skincare products, anyone else the same? A new season equals a new skincare routine, any excuse! My skin has been throwing a bit of a tantrum lately. I blame the weather and eating out too much.
The comedown from a Summer high is less than pretty with fine lines, sun spots and chlorine-dipped hair. Now is the time to reverse that summer damage with these handy tips and products.

REN Rosa Centifolia Cleansing Water 3-in-1 200ml �13.00*
A cleanser, make up remover and toner all in one. I use this at the end of the day to take my make up off. I was really impressed with how well it removes make up, even stubborn mascara. There is no tightness or irritation left with this gentle cleanser. This is great when i'm feeling lazy as you don't need to rinse it off (plus i can clean my face whilst watching telly) and i still feel like my skin is getting a good cleanse. This cleansing water is soap, alcohol and detergent free, it's also suitable for all skin types. If you're not into cleaning waters, REN have a whole selection of different cleanser in the Rosa Centifolia range here.
Super Facialist Vitamin C+ Brighten Skin Defence Daily Moisturiser �16.99
(Why such the long name?!)The Vitamin C+ range from Super Facialist is perfect for creating a more youthful, healthy glow. This brightening moisturiser contains Hyaluromic Acid and anti-oxidant rich Ferulic Acid which helps to reduce sun spots and uneven skintone. The lovely citrus scent helps to wake me up in the morning too!
Weleda Citrus Refreshing Body Oil 100ml �13.95*
As the weather shifts to drier, cooler temperatures, your skin becomes much more prone to breakage. This body oil softens and protects skin from moisture loss. It can be applied directly onto damp skin after a shower or bath. If you suffer from really dry skin i would use this in conjunction with body butter. Weleda Body Oils are formulated from carefully selected plant oils, these are rich in essential fatty acids which stimulate the regeneration and revitalisation process of the skin. This is dermatologically tested and suitable for vegans.
Soap & Glory Sugar Crush Body Scrub 300ml �8.00
Soap & Glory know how to make a good scrub don't they? I recently treated myself to this after finishing my tub of Flake Away. What i love about this is its sweet scent, reminds me of lime cheesecake! Seriously, this smells good enough to eat (please don't eat it, trust me). The brown sugar and macadamia grains help me to get a good scrub.
LUSH Therapy Massage Bar 50g �6.50
Massage bars melt at body temperature and turn to rich oil on skin. This is really easy to use, simply rub the bar slowly over skin, allowing it to melt. I like to use this in the shower for a more intense aroma. These come in all different scents, Therapy contains coco butter, shea butter and organic essentials oils with mood effecting benefits. Perfect for when winter has left your skin feeling and looking dry. This is such a lovely experience to use, it's the perfect pick me up on a dark winters evening!

What skincare products have you added to your routine this A/W? Keep your eyes peeled for an 'Autumn Nails' post coming up soon :)

*pr sample

Read More

LUSH Toothy Tabs in 'Atomic': Review

 

Did you know LUSH also do dental products, i didn't before i tried these! Toothy Tabs are basically 

toothpaste in solid form. Sounds weird? Yep, it is. 

The toothy tabs come in a box made from 100% recycled paper. As with all things LUSH, this is such an unique and innovative product! To use you simple place one between your front teeth and crush before brushing your teeth as normal. I've been using 'Atomic' which includes antiseptic ingredients such as clove and cinnamon. 

The Results

I was sceptical at first whether these would clean my teeth as well as normal toothpaste would. I use an electric toothbrush and the Toothy Tabs foam up a lot more then i was expecting! The taste and chalky texture is something i've gotten use too and isn't unpleasant at all. After using these for nearly 4 weeks, they do clean my teeth as well as an ordinary toothpaste. I love that these are eco-friendly, cruelty-free and use essential oils. I'd never really given much thought of how many plastic toothpaste tubs i use, but it's something i'm going to try and cut down on in the future.

Atomic LUSH Toothy Tabs are �2.50 for 40 available from LUSH stores or online here.

Read More

John Frieda Frizz-Ease: Review

You might remember i reviewed the John Frieda Sheer Blonde range back in March, read here if you missed it! I've recently been testing a few products from the iconic Frizz-Ease range. Because i regularly dye my hair, it can be very dry and prone to frizz; anything claiming to turn these frizzy locks to smooth curls i need to try! The entire Frizz-Ease range is packaged in a grey and purple design making it easy to spot when shopping for them.

Frizz-Ease Smooth Start Hydrating Shampoo �5.99
This contains Frizz-Mending complex and natural olive oil which replenishes lost moisture. I found you only need to use a small amount of this to get a good lather. Once washed out my hair feels immediately smoother. The light-weight shampoo would be great for those with fine hair as it leaves no residue.

• 
  

Frizz-Ease Smooth Start Hydrating Conditioner �5.99
Conditioning is essential for curly tresses.  The Frizz Ease conditioner is also enriched with a unique Frizz-Mending Complex and natural olive oil.  The texture is not as thick as some conditioners so doesn't leave hair feeling 'heavy'.  This helps to de-tangle hair and makes frizz more manageable. 

Frizz-Ease Dream Curls Enhancing Oil �9.99
This curl enhancing oil is suppose to add softness and shine to curly/wavy hair. To activate the oil you have to shake it. I put about 20 drops of this onto damp and and let it dry naturally. My hair does feel softer after using this but i'm not sure if it adds much shine. 

 Frizz-Ease Miraculous Recovery Intensive Masque �5.99

The conditioner itself is quite thin and runny but this doesn't effect it's performance.   Once applied to hair it feels like a typical conditioner would with the added extra of a lovely clean,fresh scent. I leave this on in the shower whilst i do the rest of my shower routine before rinsing out. For a more intense mask, leave this on for an hour.  Once washed out i can instantly feel that my hair is a lot softer and silkier.  

Overall, i've enjoyed using the Frizz-Ease range. If you have naturally curly or wavy hair i'd definitely recommend checking it out.  I normally see John Frieda on offer at Boots and selected products are 2 for �8 at the minute. 

You can purchase the John Frieda Frizz-Ease range on their website here.  John Freida also have a youtube channel with lots of helpful hair tutorials, you can view these here. 

*pr samples

Read More

My Thoughts On: Beautiful Movements Cosmetics

Beautiful Movements are a natural cosmetics brand co-founded by ex-Pussycat Doll Kimberly Wyatt.  The products are free from parabens, animal products, synthetic dyes & fragrances, neither are they tested on animals. As well as being cruelty-free, the brand is also good for your skin. The products are lightweight and allows skin to breathe without clogging pores.  The Beautiful Movements range includes mineral foundation, eyeshadow, lipgloss, bronzer and brushes.  I've been testing a few products from the range, here's how i got on...


Red Rock Mineral Eyeshadow �7.00 
The eyeshadow range is divided into four categories: Starry Eyed Glamour, Earthy Princess, Story Book and Burning Spirit. They are 100% natural and vegan. The shadows are gorgeously high pigmented. 'Red Rock is a beautiful golden, shimmery copper shade which looks great blended over the entire eyelid. This colour will really suit those with blue or green eyes. The formula is super soft making it easy to blend.

Clay Mineral Eyeshadow �7.00 2g 

Another eyeshadow from the Beautiful Movements 'Burning Spirit' Collection. 'Clay' is a matte, creamy yellow shade which looks lovely and natural for everyday. The 9ml sifter jar which contains the loose pigments can be a little messy to use at first but after a few goes i've gotten use to it! For a more intense eyeshadow you can mix this with the mixing medium mentioned below.

Mixing Medium Prime & Create �20.00 

A multi-purpose product - you can use this either as a primer or mix it with a mineral powder. Adding it with mineral concealer will create a matt finish with maximum coverage. Powder blushers and bronzers can easily be transformed into cream tints for cheeks, eyes or even lips. I've been using this with mineral eyeshadow to make liquid liners and create an intense eyeshadow finish.The silky, clear gel contains aloe vera which is kind to skin and has healing properties. It melts into skin smoothly and you only need to use a small amount of this product, so the 20g pot will last ages! 

This range would be perfect if you use only cruelty-free, natural cosmetics or if it's something you want to get into! Beautiful Movements is available from Holland & Barrett here or via the Beautiful Movements website here. 

*pr samples

Read More

Boots Haul October 2013

left to right 

Real Techniques Starter Kit

Real Techniques Expert Face Brush

Seventeen Phwoar Paint Undereye Concealer (Fair)

No7 Precision Lip Liner (Blush)

Maybelline Color Sensational Vivids Lipstick (shocking coral 910)

I bought some beauty bits from Boots last month and now i'm going to tell you what i think of this stuff.

Real Techniques Starter Kit �21.99

I did it, i popped my RT cherry. The starter kit contains five 'base' brushes. My favourite part of doing my make up is getting the base right so this set was ideal for me. I'd heard so many bloggers rave about the buffing brush, can't wait to give these a go. Do let me know what you use your RT brushes for if you have this set!

Real Techniques Expert Face Brush �9.99

Ok, so i have used this one and i like it! The bristles are super soft, i like that you can stand it up and the design looks professional. I probably wont be reveiwing my new make up brushes as there are 8493820+ great reviews already out there.

Seventeen Phwoar Paint Under eye Concealer (Fair) �5.99

I'm always on the hunt for a good under eye concealer and this one from Seventeen looked quite unique. You don't see many pressed concealers on the highstreet but some bloggers have compared this to Benefit's Erase Paste. I've used it a couple of times now and it's good at concealing dark circles but i still like to layer an illuminating concealer on top. I'll have some swatches of this and more highstreet concealers in an upcoming post. 

No7 Precision Lip Liner (Blush) �6.75

This was a re-purchase for me as i lost my last one on a night out! The No7 lip liners have a creamy formula which allows for easy, smooth application. I love this subtle red shade and i use the shade 'nude' if i'm wearing heavy eye make up. 

Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick (shocking coral 910) �7.19

I'm a huge fan of the Maybelline 24 hours SuperStay Lipsticks but this is my first Color Sensational purchase. 'Shocking Coral' is a bright pink with a hint of coral, sort of a muted neon pink. This has a slight glossy finish but dries to a matte after an hour. It's definitely one for those brave bright lipstick wearers! 

If you would like a review of any of the products mentioned above, please let me know :) What have you been buying this month?

Read More