OLAPLEX - ANOTHER BEAUTY FACADE?

What is Olaplex?

"Our simple three-step process includes a patented active ingredient that works on a molecular level to seek out broken bonds in the hair that are caused by chemical, thermal, and mechanical damage. You can use Olaplex to restore compromised hair, or add it to another service to provide the ultimate breakage insurance."

^Credit: https://olaplex.com/

• Olaplex No.1 - Bond Multiplier
• Olaplex No.2 - Bond Perfector 
• Olaplex No.3 - Hair Perfector
• Olaplex No.4 - Bond Maintenance Shampoo
• Olaplex No.5 - Bond Maintenance Conditioner

Ok, so let's clear up any confusion. 

Olaplex is a salon treatment that you can now maintain at home. Unlike any other hair treatments, Olaplex works by repairing the bonds and it starts with adding the product into your dye. 

Whether you have dyed, coloured hair, or struggle with breakage from heat styling, the active Olaplex ingredients will help repair broken bonds for sleeker, healthier looking hair.

How do I use Olaplex?

I visit the hairdressers every 8 weeks (roughly) and each time I get my hair dyed I ask for OIaplex. My fabulous hairdresser Ashleigh aka Hair Queen at Salon 99, will then mix in No 1 and No 2 with my colours. I then  maintain the Olaplex treatment at home with No 3, 4 and 5. 

Can I just use No 3 or do I need to use the full system?

I would say if you use the full system you are going to get maximum results but I know I noticed a difference after one use of the No 3 treatment at home. 

I know the full system is expensive. I saved up my ££ and bought one bottle at a time and waited until I had all 3 before using them. Used together is like some sort of hair wizardry. I've honestly had people tell me how nice my hair is and guaranteed it's on the day I've used the full Olaplex system.

Is Olaplex worth the £££? 

100000% yes. Ok, so it is a little pricey and the bottles aren't the biggest but a little product goes a long way so they will last you quite some time. I noticed a massive difference in my hair after only 1 use. My hair was visibly smoother, shinier and it exuded health. It looked strong. No fly-aways and less tugs. 

I've been using Olaplex for quite a few months now and my hair has never looked (and felt) so good in my life. In my opinion, it's an absolute must for blondes. Olaplex is proven to reduce breakage and leave your hair stronger than ever and I can fully vouch for this.

I love being blonde but I know I put my hair through ALOT when I get bleach highlights and the constant use of straighteners, curlers etc. It's hard to keep blonde hair in good condition and I've honestly noticed a huge difference in my hair since I started using Olaplex. Not only does my hair look smoother, the shine on it is incredible. It looks and feels healthy and strong. 

There are other companies joining on the "bond repairing" bandwagon. Shwarzkopf's answer to Olaplex is their own FibrePlex and don't get me wrong, FibrePlex is good but it's just nowhere near as good as Olaplex. If you want to try a cheaper alternative to begin with, then I would recommend trying FibrePlex which can be found at some salons and online: Amazon and Escentual 

Olaplex can be purchased online: All Beauty,  Amazon and Cult Beauty

Disclaimer: 

My reviews are always 100% honest. I would not promote something that I do not use/believe in. I bought these products with my own money and have not been paid/sponsored/gifted anything.

MENTAL HEALTH IS A GOOD THING?

My work contacted Team Mental Health to conduct a Masterclass for the staff on Mental Health and it was brilliant. The Doctors from TMH were so informative and explained everything really well. They made a statement that really stuck with me. 

"Mental Health is a good thing".

Mental Health is a good thing. We all have mental health. It affects how we feel, think and act. A Mental Health disorder, on the other hand, is an illness and this is the confusion that many of us have. If you look up Mental Health in the dictionary, it describes it as "a person’s condition with regard to their psychological and emotional well-being". It doesn't mention mental health in a negative light, so why do we associate it so negatively?

Why is there so much stigma around Mental Health disorders? What can we do to combat this? Honestly, in my opinion - we just need to talk about it more. The more people talk and share their knowledge/experiences the more people will begin to understand. 

Early Warning Signs:

Not sure if you or someone you know is living with mental health problems? Experiencing one or more of the following feelings or behaviours can be an early warning sign of a problem:

• Eating or sleeping too much or too little
• Pulling away from people and usual activities
• Having low or no energy
• Feeling numb or like nothing matters
• Having unexplained aches and pains
• Feeling helpless or hopeless
• Smoking, drinking, or using drugs more than usual
• Feeling unusually confused, forgetful, on edge, angry, upset, worried, or scared
• Yelling or fighting with family and friends
• Experiencing severe mood swings that cause problems in relationships
• Having persistent thoughts and memories you can't get out of your head
• Hearing voices or believing things that are not true
• Thinking of harming yourself or others
• Inability to perform daily tasks like taking care of your kids or getting to work or school

^Credit: Mental Health.gov

People who suffer from Mental Health disorders can be very good at hiding it. And in some cases, they don't even realise that they actually have a Mental Health problem in the first place! I know this first hand because I was in denial for so long. I was always seen smiling and laughing so people would see me as this really happy and bubbly girl who loved life. But behind that smile, was a girl so frightened of her own suicidal thoughts at times, too terrified to show her vulnerable side to anyone, she continued to force a smile and pretend everything was ok when it really wasn't. 

I've always been a pretty emotional person. I wear my heart on my sleeve, I cry at sad movies and when the people I love are hurting, I hurt too. It's been a few years now, since I was in my darkest place. I still have the odd day where I succumb to awful thoughts and feelings, where I just want to disappear from it all but I am a mum now. I have a 2 year old who depends on my very existence. Motherhood has undoubtedly been my saviour. 

I still don't think a lot of people really understood what I was going through when I was really depressed. I don't think anyone can fully understand a Mental Health disorder until they've gone through something similar. Yes, you can fully empathise and try to imagine someones pain but honestly, trying to explain to someone why you feel the way you do, when you don't even know why you feel a certain way yourself - is incredibly difficult on everyone involved. On the back of this, I now suffer incredibly with anxiety and it's cost me a lot in the form of friendships. 

I'm not ashamed to admit that I sometimes really struggle. I do watch what I share with people because I don't want peoples perceptions of me to change and for anyone to start avoiding me. I like giving off the impression that I am strong and give the allusion that I basically have my shit together even if I'm crumbling inside. I like being that "go-to" person. Someone that people know they can rely on and turn to when times are tough. I think it stems from me not wanting anyone to feel as low or alone as I have, so I've somehow adopted this attitude of wanting to take care of everyone but not really bothering about myself. Cue the downward spiral of pressure/stress/unrealistic expectations/scary thoughts.  The road to recovery is hard, again for the person with the Mental Health disorder and for those around them. For me, identifying my triggers has really helped me on my way to fighting off those dark days. Figuring out what sets off those feelings of hopelessness and unworthiness. During the Masterclass, I had a "lightbulb" moment where I realised 2 things about myself -

Firstly, I expect way too much of others. I assume people will treat me like I would treat them. But life just doesn't work that way. I can't expect people to think and feel the same way I do. I know that probably sounds like I am stating the obviously but honestly, it really resignated with me. I need to appreciate that everyone has different morals/opinions and ideas and although I may not agree with them, I have to accept it.

Secondly, I need to start putting me first. I need to learn to say no. Burning the candles at both ends is never going to end well. It ties in with the above because I try to never say "no" to anyone or let anyone down, so when people let me down or say no to me, I take it really personally. This is something I am going to have to work on probably forever but now that I've recognised that this is an issue for me and it triggers me on a downward spiral, I will try and focus on myself more, rather than being a people pleaser. 

I thought it was really bloody brilliant that my work arranged a Mental Health masterclass because quite frankly, we all bang on about being physically healthy but being mentally healthy is equally as important. The fear of being judged is usually one of the reasons people don't want to admit they have a Mental Health problem. So for a workplace to actively try and make it a "judgement free" "safe place" and want to have a better understanding is incredible and admirable. 

We need to stop stereotyping Mental Health disorders with someone looking sad. There really is so much more to a Mental Health disorder than what we physically see. A simple  comment like "how are you?" or "you've been quiet lately, everything ok?" could really make the world of a difference for someone. 

So remember, check in on your loved ones and don't just assume because they are smiling that everything is ok. There are so many signs that can show someone is struggling but there can also be no warning signs at all. If you do suspect someone you know may be suffering, encourage them to speak to their Doctor. Even the smallest things, like having a chat over a cup of tea can totally lift someones spirits. Small acts of kindness have the biggest impacts in life.

Be kind, always. 

For anyone looking for information on Mental Health - I've linked a few websites that provide professional healthcare advice. 

https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mental-health

http://edspace.org.uk/

FRICTION FREE SHAVING? ... YES PLEASE!

I've been a customer of FFS for a while now. For so long, I actually had to trawl through emails and my instagram posts to figure it out. April 2016 is when I first discovered FFS and I've never looked back. Well.. I kind of did but with HUGE regret which I'll tell you about! 

So what is FFS? 

FFS is an online razor blade delivery service for a mere £9 per month. In your first box, you'll get your handle and 4 blades. From then on you just get 4 blades a month. You can choose between a Rose and Silver handle. There is no obligation to buy any add-ons but if you're an advertisers dream (guilty), they also sell shaving cream, balm and scrubs! 

What's the point when I can go pick up a razor in Boots?

Well. If you're anything like me, purchasing razors always slipped my mind, probably cause a pack of Venus sets you back £20 and who can justify spending £20 on razor blades?! Seriously, shaving is a chore. It's bloody scandalous considering I didn't ask to resemble a hairy gorilla! 

What's the catch?

Honestly, there is none. FFS send you 4 blades a month in the post, 1 for each week of the month.  No extra costs for postage and they just post it through your letterbox so no need to worry about being home for the postie. 

Granted, I've never used a blade just for a week because honestly, I don't shave as often as I should (sorry Chris) but really, who does? I'm a working mum to a 2 year old and you're lucky if I get a 5 minute shower in peace never mind a 20 minute shaveathon. 

What's so good about it?

It's an online subscription service that automatically sends you blades each month unless you stop/pause it so you should never be caught out. HOWEVER, remember how I said I don't shave as often as I should? Well I ended up with about 20 blades at one point!! So I thought I'd pause the subscription for a while and I completely forgot to renew it. Cue, me getting ready for my bestie's 30th birthday party, shiny new dress to wear and NO RAZOR BLADES. Hello gorilla legs. I reluctantly had to go to the shops and pick up a razor as time was of the essence so I just grabbed whatever was on offer; a £5 Venus Extra Smooth Razor. 

Let me tell you, I was not extra smooth. I wasn't even remotely smooth. For a brand new razor I expected to be looking like a silky smooth dolphin. What I was left with was razor bumps, friction and hair growth the next day. RAGING! I remember thinking that I didn't get that with my FFS razor. I always got the closest shave and no friction! It's in the name people!! 

They also do a "Referral Programme" where you get goodies for referring your pals! Venus don't do that do they? So at a fraction of the cost of Venus razors, FFS are more aesthetically pleasing (if you're into pretty things you'll fancy the pants off a razor) better results and a referral programme - you'd be daft not to sign up right away! 

"REFERRED BY A FRIEND?" If you use my referral code AM7K5D you'll get free personalisation for your razor, usually £6!

https://bit.ly/2RAM0jR

Let me know if I've convinced you to join the thousands of women already part of the FFS Family and let me know what you think of it. We can all be hair free and silky smooth together! 

PS. Just incase anyone is wondering, I paid for this with my own money. Not sponsored or anything just really love the concept of a razor subscription and it really is the best razor I've ever tried!

Winner of Best New Personal Care Product

‘The packaging and product is incredible – effortless shaving at its best’

IT'S OK TO NOT BE OK

I am so mad right now. 

I'm sitting crying into my laptop after seeing a bunch of Mental Health posts online. Just recently, another celebrity, apparently someone who always appeared happy and laughing, has chosen to end their life and the world can't comprehend it. Everyone's reacting to how sad it is and I've seen chainmail posts from people saying "you're not alone" and "their house is a safe zone and is a place of non-judgement". Well isn't it a damn shame you didn't feel the same a few years ago when your best friend was suffering? That's the fucked up world that we live in today folks. Where people feel sad for celebrities or can empathise with people they don't know over actually helping someone they do know with their problems.Why? Simply because they just don't have the time for it.

I went through a really tough time. At one point, I felt like I just couldn't catch a break. It was bad news after bad news. When I look back I can admit, I'd had a nervous breakdown. Life was too much and things started spiralling out of control. I hit rock bottom and ended up needing pills to get me up out of bed in the morning to face every day task that most people wouldn't usually think twice about.

I've always believed people don't treat Mental Health as an 'illness' as it is an illness that cannot always necessarily be seen. Just because we cannot see someones pain, does not mean it doesn't exist. You'll clearly see a broken leg or arm and right away you can see they are in pain. But when someone is hurting so much on the inside, it's not as easy to see. I've read somewhere before that depression is a selfish disease. And I do believe it to some extent, because when you're depressed you're not thinking about anyone else's pain or how your pain is affecting anyone but you. But I know from my own experience, is that I didn't want to burden anyone with my pain. And I don't find that selfish at all. Complete opposite in fact. 

Some people won't chose to share their mental health for a number of reasons; pride, fear of rejection; admitting defeat or the simple fact that they don't want anyone else to hurt like they are hurting. That doesn't necessarily mean it's up to them to help themselves. If warning signs are there, make more of an effort. If they start cancelling on you all the time, stop replying to your texts or they may start taking less care in their appearance. Are they irrational or behaving different? Having mood swings? Are they deliberately isolating themselves? Literally anything out the ordinary. I'd like to think I'd notice a change in my friend if they were struggling. If you're not sure, speak to them, speak to their parents or partner. Do anything because if they choose to end their life, you'll be the one left with the guilt and regret if you do nothing. 

If people who suffer from mental health could snap their fingers and feel better, believe it when I say we bloody would! Depression isn't a sign of weakness. It means you have been strong for too long.

To those I may have hurt during my darkest times.
Please forgive me, if I pushed you away. Forgive me, if I was needy and longed for you to physically show me how much I meant to you. Forgive me for hurting and taking longer to deal with my grief.  Forgive me, for not appreciating you tried to help. Forgive me, for not thinking of your pain too. But please remember, nobody in their right frame of mind just ups and quits their job. Stops making an effort in all aspects of their life and pushes their closest friends away. It's actually heartbreaking to feel like I meant so little, that my friendship wasn't worth fighting for. I think that's something that will stick with me forever. I wasn't worth it. 

I can imagine it being bloody tough being a friend to someone who struggles with Mental Health. But my god, I'd rather be a good friend than have anyone feel like they have to battle through it alone. After all, that's what friends are for, right? 

"Good friends help you find things when you've lost them. 

Things like your mind, your hope, your courage and your smile". 

MUM TIPS

MY TOP TIPS/ADVICE FOR NEW MUMS

Being a first-time mum myself, I know how hard it can be adjusting to your new role as a mumma and how the lack of sleep can affect your whole day, mood - everything! So I thought I'd conjure up a few things that have seriously helped me out and adapt to my new 'mum-life' a little bit easier.

1. Tommee Tippee Perfect Prep Machine

Worth.Every.Penny! I remember speaking to my mum when I was pregnant and I told her I wanted a perfect prep as I'd read heaps of reviews online and she laughed at me saying it would be a 'waste of money' and remarked 'what's wrong with boiling a kettle?" Well, for once, I am glad I didn't listen to her!! When you have a screaming baby, hungry at 3am you don't want to wait/YOU CAN'T wait for 30 minutes while the kettle cools down. It's so not fun!! The perfect prep does all the hard work for you and has the bottle ready in a matter of minutes. It normally retails for around £120 but the likes of Asda, Mothercare etc are always doing half price deals. PS, even my mum has been converted and thinks its a god-send!

2. Car Seat/Pram Toy 

Picture this. You're driving in your car and you get stopped at lights. Baby starts to cry and you can't reach behind you to soothe them. What a nightmare! This had happened to me a few times and it wasn't until I was in a shopping centre one day and I saw a couple with their pushing their baby in the pram and noticed that they had a toy bar across the carseat handle. I literally went on to google right away to purchase one.  They are amazing. I bought mine from Smyths Toy Store for £9.99. It had a rattle, a mirror and a musical/light up lion and my son was obsessed. He was totally fascinated by the lion and would sit content for ages. Money well spent.

3. Ewan The Dream Sheep

Ewan certainly is a dream thats for sure. For those who don't know about Ewan, he is a soothing sheep which lights up and plays calming sounds that replicate those that babies hear in the womb. Ever since my son was born, I'd play white noise on Youtube on my phone and it would help settle him/get him to sleep but it meant me being phoneless until bub had fell asleep and when I did eventually get my phone back my battery would be low. Not ideal. You can attach Ewan to the cot and press any of his feet for approx 20 mins of soothing noises which helps the little ones drift off into dreamland. He retails for £29.99 which isn't the cheapest but if you're struggling to settle your little one - its definitely worth a try.

4. A Pram/Stroller Organiser 

I'm a little bit late to the game with this. I've seen so many people with pram organisers but never really felt the need for one. But if you're anything like me and constantly saying "where's my phone?", "where's my keys" then this could be your saviour! I ordered one from Amazon and I love it, it is big enough for me to fit nappies, wipes, purse, 2 bottles and it has a touch screen see through bag for my phone. My only wish is I'd bought it sooner!! 

5. Baby Classes

I remember being pregnant and wondering if I'd ever pluck up the courage to attend a baby sensory class (Moo Music, Jo Jingles Gymboree etc) and if I am honest, I don't think I would have if it wasn't for my prego friend! I am so glad I joined a baby class because not only do I think it helps bring on your little one - it's also a chance for you to meet new mum friends and be able to talk baby all day but still have grown up chats with people in similar situations. I attended both Moo Music and Jo Jingles with my son and he loved them both. They offer a variety of sensory toys and nursery rhymes to help them learn. I've got a great circle of mummy friends now and I do think mum-life would be a hell of a lot harder without them so get yourself to a class and meet some mummies.

I hope these tips help any mummies or mummies-to-be out. Leave a comment below with any tips you think all parents should know!

NIP & FAB MAKE-UP

The New Nip & Fab Make-Up Range

 

 

I was super lucky to be sent a PR package from Rachael at Nip & Fab to try out the new Nip & Fab makeup line. I was absolutely buzzing to try everything she sent me because Nip & Fab are such a massive contender in the skincare market, I had high hopes for the makeup.

 

 

First up are the Colour Correctors. Now I'm not going to lie, I personally don't really feel the need to colour correct. Yes, I have eye bags and spots but I always tend to use full coverage concealers and foundations so I've never found colour correcting a necessity but I was pleasantly surprised. The yellow shade really does brighten and the orange cancels out any blue/black bags under the eyes. They blend out well and a little goes a very long way. If you suffer from dark circles or are into colour correcting then there's no reason you won't love these. However, what I will say I'm not a fan of is the packaging. I've never been a fan of squeezey tube products because I don't think you ever get the full product out. Plus, if you accidentally squeeze too hard and too much product comes out it's such a waste. But really, at the price can we really grumble? 
RRP £8.95 each

  

The matte liquid lipsticks are probably my least favourite product and the only reason being is the shades I was sent. I think I suit brighter colours on my lips. I always feel nude lips wash me out, even though I love a nude lip look so I'd like to try other shades. The formula however, is spot on and it does last on my lips a really long time. Not drying or flaky at all. The liquid lipstick market is booming right now but I think Nip & Fab are definitely giving some of the higher end brands a run for their money. Why pay double the price for pretty much the same product!
RRP: £7.95 (ACTUAL STEAL)

 

 

The foundation mixers are AMAZING! The white shade, for me, has been a god-send. I buy most of my makeup online and I don't always get the colour match quite right. I have a few foundations I've neglected because they are a few shades too dark so having the foundation mixers means I've been able to use them again. Honestly, a staple product in any makeup collection. The great thing is - they don't alter the wear or coverage of a different brand of foundation either which is truly amazing!
RRP: £12.95

 

 

The foundation is a really good everyday foundation. I'd say medium coverage but builds really well and gives a nice flawless finish. I've used quite a bit of it already. Again, not a massive fan of the packaging (boo to squeezey tubes). You get 30 ml which is pretty average for a foundation and again, at the price, can we really grumble about packaging?? It could be a great foundation to take on holiday as it doesn't feel heavy on the skin yet still gives a nice coverage and you don't need to worry about it breaking in your suitcase - bonus!
RRP: £12.95
 

 

The contour palette is amazingly pigmented and has such a good variety of colours. You know how there is usually one or two colours in a contour kit that you just don't use? Well not this one. I've used every colour. Which is great because it's so versatile it'll suit all skin tones. They are extremely easy to blend because they are so finely-milled and they don't leave that "powdery" finish that I've experienced with other contour kits. To get 6 shades for only £15 is total steal if you ask me. RRP: £15.00

 

Ahh my favourite product that I was sent - the highlight palette. Just look at it. It is stunning! The shades and pigmentation are spot on - it's fast becoming my "go-to" product to use for highlight. Some shades are more subtle than others which is good for the days you want to glow but not like from space, you know? Without a doubt it will be coming on holiday with me. I think it will be perfect from the start of my holiday when I resemble Casper The Friendly Ghost and return resembling a bronzed golden goddess. HA! Who am I kidding, I've got a 1 year old, I'll probably come back whiter than I leave!! Again, another steal - £15 for 6 highlight shades. I've paid double that for 1 highlighter before....... madness!
RRP £15.00

All in all, I'd say you definitely need check out the new Nip & Fab make-up line as there are some really beautiful products. https://www.nipandfab.com/makeup

If you're quick - Superdrug are offering 3 for 2 right now on Nip & Fab make-up so go go go!!

The products are in my opinion, great value for money. Extremely affordable, easily accessible and incredibly pigmented. The products I've reviewed are only a handful of the collection. There are primers, mascaras, lip liners and more. The blush palettes have caught my eye - they look incredible!

I created this "day glam" look using the above Nip & Fab products. Can you believe the difference!
 

Have you tried any Nip & Fab products? Let me know in the comments anything that I must try!

This review is not sponsored. I have been sent these products in exchange for a review but I will always be 100% honest with my opinions.

SONIC CLEANSING BRUSH

MAGNITONE BAREFACED 

Skincare has become my obsession lately. I don't know if it's because I'm getting older and  my skin is changing or the fact that I don't wear makeup as often as I used to but I really notice a difference in my skin when I do look after it. I'm not just talking about taking my makeup off properly but really giving it a deep cleanse daily. 

I hummed and hawed for ages about buying a sonic cleansing brush because they are so pricey but my skin was looking the worst it had looked in YEARS so I bit the bullet and purchased a Magnitone BareFaced. A pink one, of course ;-)

My Skin Type

I suffer from large pores/textured skin and always have the odd hormonal breakout. I have pretty oily/combination skin as I do sometimes suffer from dry patches, especially if I use abrasive face washes and cleansers. 

What is a Sonic Cleansing Brush?

In Magnitone's own words: "A combination of sonic oscillations + pulsed vibrations to deep-cleanse, massage and tone your skin at the same time, just like a mini workout".


Why Magnitone?

I opted for a Magnitone Sonic Cleansing Brush over other leading brands because of a few factors. Price being number 1. Really budget friendly and with so many stockists like Look Fantastic, Feel Unique who ALWAYS have discount codes floating around it definitely hooked me in.

Secondly, I liked the look of it. Sounds a bit strange, right? Well my thoughts were, to entice me to actually want to properly clean my face every day (cause it's such a chore) I thought if I had a pretty tool it would make me want to use it (I'm a sucker for pretty things, packaging being my downfall) and I was right! I use it every morning and night and my skin has seriously thanked me for it. 

There are 2 settings: Facial Cleanse and PulseLift Toning Mode. Both modes last 60 seconds to stop over-cleansing and aggravating your skin. 

It's waterproof. You can use it and store it in the shower.

What's in the box? 

1. Magnitone BareFaced2
2. Wireless USB Travel Charger
3. Travel Bag
4. Magnitone Membership Card
5. 12 month warranty
   
   
   
   AND When I bought my Magnitone BareFaced, I also got a FREE shower holder worth £20.00!

Magnitone have a great variety of brush heads. I am desperate to try the Pore Perfection replacement heads. I've already noticed a difference in my pores with the Active Clean brush head, can you imagine what this brush head will do for my pores?! Giddy at the thought. 

My confidence hits rock bottom when my skin is at it's worst but my Magnitone BareFaced has really helped me beat overcome my fear of being well, bare faced! My skin is noticeably brighter, pores are less visible and the overall texture of my skin is so soft and smooth.

If you fancy trying out a Magnitone BareFaced - they are offering free delivery on their website this week. Would make an amazing Mothers Day present ;-)

https://www.magnitone.co.uk