Test Subject: Barry M Liquid Liner

Hello all! This is the first Test Subject of 2012! This is having a slightly different format to last year.

First up we have a liquid liner from Barry M in the shade Black.

I don't know about you, but I'm funny when it comes to liquid eyeliners, I really don't like the little thin brushes, so you can imagine how happy I was when I unscrewed the lid to find the applicator I like.

I only picked this up in the first place because;

1. It was part of an offer.
2. I love and trust the Barry M Intense Eyeliner Pens

It applies really well, and the graduating lid makes it comfortable in the hand whilst applying. The liner itself feels comfortable on the eyelid and wears well.

I fully recommend this eyeliner to people.

It also comes in a range of colours, such as;

Turquoise
Coffee Shimmer
Electric Blue
Mermaid Green
Purple
Pink

I think the green looks like a beautiful shade which I may have to purchase.

These eyeliners cost around £4.79, depending on where you purchase them from.

Next time I'll be reviewing Maybelline's Colossal Cat Eyes Mascara.

Test Subject: Eyebrow Threading

Yes, finally I have another Test Subect for you! As this is a procedure and not a product, I have simply taken information on it from wikipedia. I also didn't have a photo, so I grabbed this one.

What they Say:

Threading is an ancient method of hair removal originating in the Eastern world. In more recent times it has gained popularity in Western countries.

Practitioners use a pure, thin, twisted cotton thread which is rolled over usually untidy hairlines, moustaches and other areas of unwanted hair, plucking the hair at the follicle level. Unlike tweezing, where single hairs are pulled out one at a time, threading can remove an entire row of hair, resulting in a straighter line. As a larger area of hair is removed at once, however, it can be relatively painful.

Threading has long been popular in many Arab countries, and was well known from Indian and Persian culture, where it is known as Bande Abru ("Abru" means eyebrow, and "Band" is the thread). Threading the entire face is widely practised amongst Iranians, but it was originally only done when a woman was getting married or for special occasions. In ancient Persia, threading was a sign that a girl had reached adulthood and become a woman.

What I say:

That photo makes it look all relaxing and nice, but no it bloody is not! It's very effective, inexpensive and quick, but it hurts alot. It's the single most painful thing I've put myself through in the name of beauty, and that's including all 5 tattoos & 12 piercings (inc. healing time).

I honestly wanted her to stop after the first eyebrow was finished. Like I said, it's very painful, though I'm not sure what was worse, the hairs being yanked out or the ripping you could hear as multiple hairs left your face.

8 hours later and it's still sore.

At least they won't need to be done for the next 5 weeks, though I'll stick to my tweezers in future.

Peace, love and all that jazz. xo

Test Subject: Rimmel Fruities Lasting Finish Nail Varnish

Here's a novelty nail varnish I couldn't wait to try. Of the fruities I liked the colour of this one the most, which is why I bought it.

What they say:

"Amazing on trend shades with fruity scents when dry

Take brilliantly colourful nails to the next level with our fragranced new nail polish! Inspired by the freshness of summer fruits, I Love Lasting Finish Fruities Nail Polish is available in four vibrant on-trend shades, each with their own matching fruity fragrance when dry. Delicious!"


What I say:

The colour is nice and bright, but you need two coats so it isn't patchy. As I've said Ireally like the colour, so here is my reaction video to the 'fruity scent' claim.



Peace, love and all that jazz. xo

Test Subject: L'Occitane Desert Rose Hand Cream

Welcome to another installment of Test Subject, here I put myself on the line to give you my honest opinions on day to day product.

This week: L'Occitane Desert Rose Hand Cream Limited Edition

What They Say:

"This convenient small size Desert Rose Hand Cream, enriched with 20% of shea butter and honey and almond extracts, nourishes, protects and repairs hands leaving them delicately perfumed with with a fruity and tangy interpretation of Moroccan rose. Hands recover comfort and softness immediately."


What I say:

Well reader, I'm going to start with the packaging. As you can see this cream is in a foil tube, which makes it easier to apply the right amount. Though it also makes a lovely partner to the Hemp Hand Protector for anyone thinking of "His 'n' Her" Christmas gifts in this run up to Christmas.
I was really attracted to the packaging of this one, it's eye catching and also http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.giffits in with the Aztec trend that's around right now.

Now on to the product itself.

It smells divine! Really does smell like roses, or Turkish delight, same thing really. After using it my hands felt better, they've been on the dry side lately, softer and even my nails felt stronger.

I like this hand cream, if I've persuaded you to buy it you can get it here or on this months Marie Claire as the freebie.

If I were to receive this as a Christmas present I certainly would not be disappointed. It's wonderful and I seriously love it.

At £7.50RRP it wont break the bank, though it probably isn't what I'd usually spend, I can say I would buy it.

Peace, love and all that jazz. xo

Test Subject: The Body Shop Vitamin E Moisturisers

I've recently decided to change my moisturiser as I didn't think my Nivea one was right for me, I also thought it was time to invest in a night cream. I chose the Vitamin E range from The Body Shop because I trust them, with my skin and with my conscious.

The 'day' cream is a light creamy consistancy, which spreads really well. It makes my skin feel really soft. The night cream is a thicker consistancy, though still spreads well. I woke up with skin so soft it was incredible.

I'm usually apprehensive when trying new moisturisers, as my skin will definately show me if it disapproves in the way of a major, painful breakout, it didn't happen with these creams, huge sigh of relief from me!

The only thing I don't like is the fact the lid of the 'day' cream is black, surely it would have made much more sense for the night cream to have the dark lid?

They work really well and the pots are alot bigger than I imagined them to be. I reckon these will last me well past Christmas, which my wallet thanks.

Vitamin E Moisture Cream £9
Vitamin E Night Cream £10

Peace, love and all that jazz. xo

Test Subject: The Body Shop Natural Lip Roll On

What They Say:

Made from 100% natural ingredients, this roll-on liquid lip balm leaves lips feeling soft and totally kissable. It has a rose flavour.

• Made with 100% natural ingredients
• Moisturising
• Leaves lips feeling soft and smooth
• Non-tacky, non-waxy feel
• Rose flavour

What I say:

I got to try this a couple of months ago, and I really love it. I bought the Rose taste/scent one yet there's a whole range to pick from.

I picked it up whilst they were doing what I guess was a trial run. I really like this product, it does everything they say it does. It also looks nice when you have minimal make up of, as a nice glossy lip always looks fresh.

It's definately worth the cost, which isn't alot. It'll fit in any make up bag/bag/purse/pocket that you really can't go wrong.

Like I said it comes in a variety of different flavours (Berry, Coconut, Orange, Rose & Mint) so it'll suit everybody's taste.

And now we're heading towards Christmas, they'll make great stocking fillers.

Peace, love and all that jazz. xo

Test Subject: MUA 3 in 1 Contour Pen

The M.U.A. 3 in 1 Contour Pen.


What They Say:

Create the look with this fantastic 3 in1 Contour Eye Pen. The angles of the nib allows you to create different looks whatever your occasion. Add drama by creating big and bold eyes, go glamorous for a soft and sulty effect, or define eyes for an ultra chic finish.

What I Say:

I happened across these by chance when I was looking for nail varnish, but I soon snapped up the black and brown versions of this brilliant eyeliner.

I couldn't get over how easy to use they are, it helps that they give you mini tutorials on the box, but you soon figure it out. It's the nib's shape, it's angled and thin, which means adapting it to your look is so easy.

They glide on beautifully, without dragging, and they last all day. They also was off with minimum fuss. These factors make them beneficial to the delicate skin of your eye area.

The 3 in 1 Contour Pen is currently 2 for £2.99 in Superdrug, another incentive to buy them before they inevitably sell out.

Peace, love and all that jazz. xo

Test Subject: Garnier B.B. Cream

What IS B.B.Cream? *This excerpt is taken from Garnier's website*

B.B. Creams (short for 'Blemish Balm') are hybrid products which combine the benefites of skincare and make-up in one.
Initially developed by a German dermatologist in the 1950's, to soothe skin and provide coverage, B.B. Creams were made famous in South Korea by an actress famed for her beautiful skin.
Over the following years, they became a cult must-have product in Asia due to their sheer, flawless finish, and their 'all-in-one' qualities.


What they say:

Garnier BB Cream

2 letters for perfect-looking skin...instantly! Garnier’s B.B. cream, Miracle Skin Perfector, with mineral pigments and vitamin C. It unifies, illuminates, hydrates and helps protect with SPF 15. Available in two shades.

What I say:

I've been waiting a while for this cream to hit the U.K! I love it, it allows me to skip foundation on a daily basis. It really does even your skin tone. It goes on so easy, spreads and doesn't look patchy. In the space of a week it's become a must have item for me.

Often, my skin reacts in protest when I change a product, yet it hasn't with this, if anything it has improved since using it, and I'm saying that in truth as it's the only thing different in routine.

I knew Garnier would get it right, just from how much I use my tinted caffine roll on. I don't think I could live without either of those products.

I definately think that key products can make you feel great about yourself. This is one of these products.

Peace, love and all that jazz. xo

Test Subject: MUA Eye Palette

After hearing so much hype about the MUA Eye Palettes, particularly that their natural toned palette was a competetor to the Urban Decay Naked Palette, I knew I had to try it.

Let me tell you, it wasn't easy tracking this palette down as it's sold out on Superdrug's website and in a couple of the stores in the area. I finally got my hands on the Heaven & Earth palette and couldn't wait to try it.

I love how all the eyeshadows work together or seperate, the shades will suit any skin tone, are pigmented amazingly and last pretty much all day.

The packaging isn't bad but looks stylish, it also comes with a long double ended eyeshadow applicator for easy application.

I love this palette and is so worth the money, at only £4! It's quality you just don't expect for the price.

I really recommend this palette and I'm tempted to hunt down the Pretty Pastels palette as well.

Peace, love and all that jazz. xo

Test Subject: elf Matte Lip Color

Note: I'm English, so I'm slightly agitated by the way colour is spelt 'color', though on today of all days I'll let it slide.


What They Say:

"This convenient jumbo sized lip pencil creates exact colour application with twist up ease so you never have to sharpen. The pigment rich colour glides on effortlessly and easily to provide long lasting matte colour. The enriched Vitamin A, C & E formula moisturizes and hydrates lips for beautiful healthy looking lips."

What I say:

I bought the shade: Coral.

This is a pinkier shade of coral than what I'm used to seeing, which I'm glad of because those shades are always too orangey for me.

The shape of the pen makes application easy and precise.

It applies well and goes on smooth, it also has a sweet taste but not overpowering. It left my lips feeling smooth and hydrated.

The colour lasts for a fairly long time, once again proving that elf are brilliant for the money they charge, £3.50 will not break the bank at all.

As soon as I got it I had to put it on, this is definitely a make up bag, or perhaps even a handbag essential.

Peace, love and all that jazz. xo

Test Subject: The Body Shop Hairbrush With Bamboo Pins

For this installment of Test Subject I'm reviewing this hairbrush from The Body Shop.

What they say:

Follow the contours of your head and gently groom your mane. The round-tipped pins massage and stimulate the scalp while regular brushing distributes the hair’s natural oils from root to tip. For all hair types.

What I say:

A while ago, I'd heard that bamboo/natural brushes are better for your hair than plastic ones. I have to agree, after using this brush my hair looks better, has more shine and feels softer.

I feels great to brush my hair with this, it really does massage your scalp, I can sit for ages just brushing my hair.

The brush itself is lightweight.

The £8 isn't what I'd usually pay for a hair brush, but I think it's worth trading in your cheap plastic brush for one of these, and it's definately an investment piece for your hair.

Overall I love this brush, I take it with me when I travel. After using it I have no desire to ever revert back to my plastic ones.

Peace, love and all that jazz. xo

Test Subject: Blistex Rasberry Lemonade Blast

What they say:

Blistex Raspberry Lemonade Blast moisturizes, protects and refreshes lips with a tantalizing fruit blend.

Super-Smooth Moisturization: Raspberry Lemonade Blast is fortified with anti-oxidant vitamins C & E and rich moisturizers to quench your lips. It's a smooth-gliding balm that leaves lips feeling protected and totally juicy.

Refreshing Flavor Sensation: Raspberry Lemonade Blast is a mouthwatering combination of two tasty fruit flavors. Luscious raspberries and sweet lemonade deliver an explosion of flavor. It's as delicious as it is effective.

Sun Protection/Sun Alert: Raspberry Lemonade Blast provides SPF 15 protection. Limiting sun exposure, wearing protective clothing, and using sunscreens may reduce the risks of skin aging, skin cancer, and other harmful effects of the sun.

What I say:

I recieved a free sample of this lip balm in the post from 'liking' their Facebook page. Being such a lover of lip balm I was very excited to try this one out.

As soon as I opened it I couldn't help sniff it and it smells divine, like summer, fizzy but not over powering. I think it smells like sweets. Once you apply it, it goes on so creamily, silky and smooth. This lip balm even tastes great, so much that I can't help but lick my lips, repeatedly.

This lip balm has left my lips softer and in better condition than before. It doesn't leave your lips feeling greasy, unlike most other lip balms.

This lip balm is perfect for any hand bag, any pocket, any purse, and I shall be using it repeatedly. I am wondering what my fiance's reaction will be when I kiss him, I think that this will be one that he'll actually like.

Peace, love and all that jazz. xo

Test Subject: Natural Collection Water Guard Mascara

This time I shall be reviewing the Natural Collection Water Guard Mascara from Boots.

What they say:

Natural Collection Water Guard Mascara defines the lashes at the same time as being waterproof and smudge resistant.

What I say:

This mascara makes no great claims like so many other waterproofs, yet it works fine. I bought it as a 'throw away item' as I knew I'd only use it once (Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows pt2) yet I find myself impressed with it. It doesn't feel heavy or goopy like other waterproofs and regular mascaras, it goes on easy and looks rather nice once applied.

It does smell though, but you don't smell with your eyes.

It performed well, better than expected actually, it stayed on even though I cried, it only smudged, and then not alot, when I was chopping onions and rubbed my eyes.
For £1.99 it's a rather good mascara and it comes in 2 shades Brown or Black.

I like the design of the packaging, it's simple yet effective, pretty even.

I give this a thumbs up.

Peace, love and all that jazz. xo