Tag: Tips and Tricks

A FLAWLESS BASE WITH JUST 4 PRODUCTS! (BLOGMAS – DAY TWENTY-NINE)

by Dreadfully Kelly, posted in Beauty

Rocking a bare face for pretty much the entirety of the initial lockdown did wonders for my skin but also in some ways created a monster.

I became incredibly fussy, craving perfection when in reality that’s kind of impossible. Makeup will always and should always look like makeup. We have pores and texture, it’s just a fact of life!

However, I think I’m finally happy with the routine I have cultivated so thought I’d share my findings with you all!

This is my 5 product flawless base. Quick and easy, just the way we like it!

1. MAC Strobe Cream

Hydrates, illuminates and clarifies skin with a mega-dose of vitamins and green tea. Iridescent particles reflect light for a revitalised, radiant glow.

maccosmetics.co.uk

Guys, I’m oily and of course I have to take that into consideration when I’m pondering products but I just love to get my glow on! The MAC Strive Cream really just breathes some life back into the skin.

It also looks fab on its own for those no makeup days.

2. Physicians Formula Butter Believe It Foundation & Concealer

Physician’s Formula Butter Believe It Foundation & Concealer is a ultra-luxurious foundation and concealer with a creamy texture which melts into the skin, leaving a natural radiant glow.

Infused with a potent blend of Murumuru Butter, Cupuaçu Butter and Tucuma Butter, sourced from the lush, nutrient-rich Amazon, the long-wearing, weightless formula simultaneously provides buildable coverage. Free from parabens. Cruelty-free & vegan-friendly.

justmylook.com

My holy grail and secret weapon all rolled into one. The perfect amount of coverage whilst avoiding any cakiness. Hands down the best foundation I have ever used and the affordable price makes it an absolute winner for me. Without a doubt the cherry on top of my routine.

3. Makeup Revolution Conceal & Define Infinite Universal Pressed Powder

Set your makeup in place with the Conceal & Define Infinite Universal Pressed Powder with Niacinamide. With an extra finely milled formula, this pressed powder will melt into the skin and set your makeup in place without a trace whilst banishing any shine. Suitable for all skin types and tones, this product also has the infusion of blemish-busting niacinamide which will help to reduce the appearance of pores for a blurred complexion which is set for the day.

revolutionbeauty.com

I’ve used some really rubbish powders in my time. I’ve also used some fairly average ones. I can honestly say though, this one is a gem!

Lightweight and lasts forever. What more could you ask for?

4. Makeup Revolution Superfix Misting Setting Spray

Lock your look in place with the Revolution Superfix Misting Spray. Enjoy the holding power of this weightless setting mist, perfect for use with your favourite liquid, matte or powder based base products.

This fixing spray gives you an ultra-matte, shine free look that won’t fade away. Infused with beneficial skin soothing Aloe & Vitamin E.

revolutionbeauty.com

Sounds magical doesn’t it? It’s transformed my makeup game in general by adding so much more longevity (I mentioned how oily I am didn’t I?!) to my look and really has cheered me up untold amounts.

…and that’s it! Will you be incorporating any of my favourites into your routine?

TROUBLE STYLING YOUR FULL FRINGE? I GOT YOU BOO! (BLOGMAS – DAY TWENTY-THREE)

by Dreadfully Kelly, posted in Beauty

Fringe? Bangs? Well whatever you call the funny flap of hair obscuring your face it can be a blessing or a curse.

I would say with absolute certainty that having a fringe is part of my identity. I’ve only ever not had one, once. For a VERY brief period of time that seemed like a good idea. Let’s grow up and get rid of it. You’re a big girl now. Nope, absolutely not. Big mistake.

So for basically the entirety of my life I have yo-yo’d back and forth between a full fringe and a side fringe. It’s what I do when I get bored. One of the biggest challenges to having a fringe is styling it just right, because I guarantee we’ve all been there. Leaving the salon feeling like a Disney Princess and come wash day you became something more akin to Spock.

Here are some of my favourite hacks for making the most out of your do!

1. Nothing looks better than a freshly washed fringe. It instantly elevates your look. If you’re the type of person who can go long stretched between hair wash days (and I so envy you!) that doesn’t mean you can’t give you fringe a quick freshen up over the sink regardless. It’ll make all the difference!

2. Never, ever, EVER leave your fringe to air dry. You’re just asking for chaos. Grab your hairdryer, a round brush of your chosen size (I like to go big!) and away you go. It can be fiddly finding the right rhythm at first but you’ll find yourself a pro in no time.

3. Velcro rollers have been a secret weapon of mine since my college days (a million years ago) and I can’t see that changing anytime soon. I stick a couple in my fringe when my hair is still hot from straightening and remove just before I’m ready to walk out the door. Voila! Volume for days! (Well, hours but you get it). If you’re feeling brave and can find a comfortable angle you could even wear them overnight.

4. Take it easy when it comes to styling products. It’s all fun and games until you overdo it on the oil and end up looking like The Penguin. Not even Danny DeVito could pull that one off. A little goes a long way. Think sparingly.

5. I’m sure you all know the wonders of the simple dry shampoo but regardless of it’s insane powers of transformation when it comes to a set of locks in between washes it’s also a great way to give your hair some oomph! A couple of sprays and your refreshed and ready to face the day.

Now go and get em tiger!

5 STYLE OBSESSED SWEETHEARTS THAT WILL HAVE YOU WANTING TO GET DRESSED (BLOGMAS – DAY TWENTY-TWO)

by Dreadfully Kelly, posted in Style

I don’t know about you but since the pandemic began I’ve been in one hell of a style funk. Living in old pyjamas whilst at home and lucky to make the effort with a sweatshirt and leggings when on the school run. I really don’t feel any desire to get up and ready. It just seems unnecessary and I miss the fire I used to have to look my best.

There 5 social media babes have all given me the kick up the arse I needed to get back on the horse and glam up in the new year. Here’s hoping it lasts!

Laura Byrnes

Instagram: laura.byrnes

TikTok: laura.byrnes0

Wardrobe staples to die for and the perfect place to start if you want ideas for your capsule wardrobe, Laura is the be all and end all of naturals in fashion.

Lauren Sarah

Instagram: its_laurensarah

TikTok: its_laurensarah

Sarah is adorably relatable and pulls together outsiders that are easily achievable but fun and could be adapted to suit anyone. I have a pair of faux leather flares on the way and if that isn’t the power of an influencer I don’t know what is.

Lily Melrose

Instagram: llymlrs

TikTok: lilymelrose

Everyday fun fashion with a dark, grungy edge is what Lily has to offer and I’m so here for it. She’s full of little tips and tricks for really transforming your wardrobe.

Sammi Jefcoate

Instagram: sammijefcoate

TikTok: sammijefcoate_

Luxury brands and harnesses, could there be a more perfect mix? Sammi has an eye for throwing together the most stunning and sometimes surprising outfit combinations.

Joanne Lewis

Instagram: petitesideofstyle

TikTok: petitesideofstyle

I feel just a little bit more stylish knowing this beauty is local to me, as if her influence might waft through the sea air and encourage me out of my dressing gown. Well, a girl can dream can’t she?

Have you found any new favourites?

GET YOUR GLOW ON WITH GLYCOLIC ACID (BLOGMAS – DAY EIGHTEEN)

by Dreadfully Kelly, posted in Beauty

I know the idea of putting anything acidic ANYWHERE near your skin might seem terrifying but here me out!

Glycolic Acid (which is a chemical exfoliant known as an alpha hydroxy acid AKA ‘AHA’) is your go to skincare ingredient to tackle breakouts, pigmentation and texture. It’s not a magic potion (but pretty damn close!).

First and foremost, Glycolic Acid is your guy if you want to exfoliate away dead skin cells to reveal a brand new, brighter you!

A naturally occuring ingredient you’ll find in the likes of pineapple, sugar cane and cantaloupe that is just the ticket if you suffer with a dull complexion. Hello mum life! Lack of sleep and constant stress. This is just the pick up you need.

Glycolic Acid is the strongest AHA as well as being absolutely tiny meaning that it can penetrate the skin on a deeper level and really get to work. Those small molecules really know their stuff!

By stimulating collagen production you skin will feel firmer, plumper and more youthful! Not to mention smoother and overall more radiant. A major advantage of glycolic acid is that it can help you tackle signs of aging, such as lines and wrinkles, which lets be honest it’s the be all and end all but sure is a nice touch?

Glycolic Acid is best used as part of your evening skincare routine as it has a tendency to make the skin sensitive to sunlight. I’d still recommend applying SPF in the AM though. It should always be a permanent fixture in your routine, regardless of the season, SPF is a must!

So, anyway…how does that sound?

5 FESTIVE RED LIPSTICKS FOR UNDER £10 (BLOGMAS – DAY ONE)

by Dreadfully Kelly, posted in Beauty

I’m a big believer in the power of a good red lipstick (and if you’re a long time reader or follow me over on Instagram you’ll have heard me say words to that effect many times).

The festive season is my favourite time of year when it comes to the beauty industry because it’s just so extra! Red lips and sparkly eyes everywhere and I’m living for it.

So with that in mind (as well as the ever expanding list of people I have to buy for!) I thought now would be a good time to recommend some of my favourite red lipstick for when you’re on a budget (or like me believe that quality does not always have to cost the Earth).

London Copyright|Profound Matte Lipstick

Shade – Aristocrat £5.95

PROFOUND is a stunning collection of luxurious, high-pigmented, creamy matte, long-lasting lipsticks, infused with a beautiful vanilla fragrance.

londoncopyright.com

Aristocrat is a creamy, full coverage, no holds barred classic red. A vegan, cruelty and paraben free staple in my collection

Revolution Pro|New Neutral Satin Matte Lipstick

Shade – Stiletto £6

Introducing the Revolution Pro New Neutral Satin Matte lipsticks, our best-selling lipstick formula – with an upgrade!

The new and improved collection features the same incredible highly pigmented lipstick formula; just one swipe across the lips will leave you with full coverage and comfortable colour – that lasts.

Housed in a new leopard print bullet for ultimate glamour, it features a magnetic soft-close clasp for sheer luxury.

The silky-smooth satin-matte formula has gentle moisturising properties which help to keep lips soft and luscious all day.

No bleeding, no drying, no cracking, whether it’s day or night, achieve a seamless finish and a perfect pout.

Available in an edit of universally flattering shades from nudes to pinks to brights; find a colour perfect for any skin tone, any age, and any occasion.

revolutionbeauty.com

Stick with the general theme of a classic red but, make it vampy!

The slightly darker tone of ‘Stiletto’ will have you feeling like the main character on your Christmas night out. The ultimate goal right?

Cruelty free and vegan as always.

By Beauty Bay|Matte Lipstick

Shade – Sauce £7

Let your lips do the talking with By BEAUTY BAY’s range of gorgeous matte lipsticks. With an ultra-creamy, intensely pigmented formula, the lipsticks are here to add the finishing touch to all your makeup looks. With eight shades to collect, the lipsticks have a comfortable wearing, extremely long-lasting and a smudge proof finish to last you from day to night, and sweet vanilla scent for that little extra oomph. You’re going to be obsessed.

beautybay.com

If you’re after a true red to take you from day to night without feeling unnecessarily self conscious then ‘Sauce’ is your girl! Such an easy transitional shade for all year round (which is great if you don’t want to invest in a huge collection!). Vegan and cruelty free of course.

By Beauty Bay|Crème Lipstick

Shade – Sidecar £8

Treat your lips to the By BEAUTY BAY Crème Lipstick. With an ultra-creamy, ultra-pigmented new formula, guaranteed to take your lips to new levels of glamour, these lipsticks deliver nothing but pure colour and a luminous finish in just one stroke. With a limited-edition glitter finish on bullet (that doesn’t transfer onto the lips), it’s time to pick your shade or collect them all, for a buildable lip look that will last all day and night.

beautybay.com

Besides anything else I am utterly obsessed with this packaging. Gatsby vibes all round ladies!

Beauty Bay can honestly do no wrong in my eyes but this is just on another level of sultry, decadent goodness.

Sidecar is your Christmas Day red. You heard it here first. She is THAT BITCH. As above this babe is both vegan and cruelty free.

Carter Beauty|Word of Mouth Lipstick

Shade – Bey €6.95

Named after 20 strong women who have inspired Founder Marissa Carter, Carter Beauty by Marissa Carter Word of Mouth Matte Lipstick has been formulated to offer stay all day pout perfection.

carterbeautycosmetics.com

Probably the most used red within my vast (VAST) collection. She’s a comfortable matte with a long lasting and durable formula guaranteed to impress.

Easily paired with the matching CB Free Speech Lip Tint if a glossy finish is more your style. Cruelty free guys, you know the drill.

The Wild Card…

Arttitude Cosmetics|Ultimate Red Lip Set

Shades – Inferno, Legacy and Conquer £24.99

Find your perfect red with our ultimate red lip kit – from the Born From The Ashes collection. Includes creamy satin finish lip bullets in 3 different shades of red, so you can find a classic red lip for every mood. Wear them on their own, or mix them together for the perfect ombre red lip.

We all have a phoenix inside of us – waiting to be reborn.

arttitudecosmetics.com

Ok, ok I know this is technically cheating as I’ve already given you 5 strong contenders and this set is over £10 but if you price it up per lipstick they’re actually only £8.33 each sooo…

They’re just so lush.

I hope you’ve found you’re perfect red somewhere amongst my favourites!

WHAT THE HELL IS HYALURONIC ACID?! (BLOGTOBER – DAY THIRTY-ONE)

by Dreadfully Kelly, posted in Beauty

Did you know that hyaluronic acid is naturally produced by your body?!

The beauty supplement that the world has gone crazy for is actually already present right inside of you.

So why do we need to fork out for sometimes pricey products if we already possess such magic?

Let me break it down for you…

The ageing process along with things such as sun exposure, smoking and pollution can decrease the hyaluronic acid you contain in your body and that pretty much sucks doesn’t it. Without it, we don’t draw in and retain as much moisture so our skins hydration levels just aren’t up to scratch.

Obviously the hyaluronic acid available to purchase is a synthetic version so not exactly what we naturally create but it sure is the next best thing.

Isn’t science amazing?

Can anyone use hyaluronic acid?

Yes! I know the word ‘acid’ sounds scary but, within this context it shouldn’t be. It’s not an acid in the sense that it will exfoliate and strip the skin. It’s just going to give you the extra hydration you need give your skin a real moisture boost (It can actually hold up to 1000 times it’s weight in water!) which in turn is going to make it look plumper, softer, brighter and clearer. Not to mention reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles. What’s not to love?!

When should I use hyaluronic acid?

There are no rules here. You do you. Throw it in there as part of both your morning and night skin care routines and you are sure to see the benefits, although just as a precaution maybe start off with once a day and then increase to twice when you feel more comfortable. Just to be on the safe side!

Is that all?

No not quite! Obviously the above is reason enough to run straight out and invest in some new skin care. However, did you know that our own hyaluronic acid can help promote and speed up wound healing? Because I didn’t! As it’s concentrations increase when an area of damage is in need of repair the hyaluronic acid regulates inflammation levels and lets the body know it needs to build more blood vessels in the area most in need. It also has antibacterial properties so helps to reduce the risk of infection.

There are no clear reports to determine whether the synthetic version within serums etc have the same amazing properties as the OG version we already possess but it’s worth a go right? (I’m sure I don’t need to tell you not to slap it onto a open wound guys, that would be silly. Just stick to your regular skin care routine and time will tell what kind of difference it really makes).

So to sum things up…Hyaluronic acid boosts hydration levels leaving the skin looking and feeling plump and fresh whilst also reduces the appearance of those pesky lines and wrinkles. Sounds good to me!

I hope you’ve found this somewhat helpful. I’m not an expert I just like to keep myself informed and am always open to learning new things!

A FOUNDATION FOR EVERY SEASON (BLOGTOBER – DAY THIRTY)

by Dreadfully Kelly, posted in Beauty

The perfect makeup application it built upon a good base and with so many to choose from it can be a really daunting task to undertake.

I’ve broken down some of my favourites by season to really see you through the year to the best of my abilities.

I’m sure you all have a favourite but why not give one of mine a go!

The Spring Foundation

Carter Beauty

Full Measure HD Foundation

€9.95

Our award winning Full Measure HD Foundation is a lightweight, full coverage foundation which leaves a flawless matte finish. The light, water-based formula glides onto the skin leaving incredible coverage as a base for any type of make-up look.

carterbeautycosmetics.com

You can’t go wrong with full coverage beauty. It’s probably the one I return to the most often and never fails to impress me with its smooth application and longevity.

The Summer Foundation

Makeup Revolution

Superdewy Tinted Moisture

£9

For the everyday fresh-faced base, use the Revolution Tinted Moisturiser – our first lightweight true-to-skin formula. The blend of skincare and makeup blurs imperfections and evens skin tone, with a sheer hint of coverage. Enriched with antioxidant wild berry extract and infused with 68% water, for a dewy makeup finish with long-lasting hydration. Let your true skin radiate through – your skin but better!

revolutionbeauty.com

Is there anything better than having the hint of a bronzed sun kissed glow and absolutely falling in love with your own skin again?

This tinted moisturiser by Makeup Revolution is perfect for just smoothing everything out and hiding any redness you may have. The perfect base for those ‘no makeup’ makeup days.

The Autumn Foundation

Carter Beauty

Miracle Measure Youth Boost Foundation

€14.95

Made without fragrance and parabens, Miracle Measure is Oil-Free, Vegan and Peta Approved.

carterbeautycosmetics.com

This skincare infused foundation hybrid is ideal with autumn with as it’s packed full of vitamins and hyaluronic acid. Perfect for hydrating your skin going into the colder months when you might be feeling a bit chapped and dry.

The Winter Foundation

Revolution Pro

CC Cream Perfecting Foundation

£10

The most hard-working, multipurpose foundation. Perfect for dry to combination skin, this Revolution Pro CC Cream Perfecting Foundation SPF30 offers sheer to full buildable coverage, whilst leaving the skin hydrated and protected.

revolutionbeauty.com

The most stunning, glowy goodness all in the sleekest of packaging. Beautiful coverage that lasts all day and night whilst protecting your skin with its built in SPF30. Perfect for party season!

The All Year Round Foundation

Physicians Formula

Butter Believe It Foundation + Concealer

£13.99

Infused with a potent blend of Murumuru Butter, Cupuaçu Butter and Tucuma Butter, sourced from the lush, nutrient-rich Amazon, the long-wearing, weightless formula simultaneously provides buildable coverage. Free from parabens. Cruelty-free & vegan-friendly.

justmylook.com

My holy grail and secret weapon all rolled into one. The perfect amount of coverage whilst avoiding any cakiness. Hands down the best foundation I have ever used and the affordable price makes it an absolute winner for me.

GIVE ME COSMETICS SEVEN DAY DAY CREAM CHALLENGE (BLOGTOBER – DAY TWENTY-FOUR)

by Dreadfully Kelly, posted in Beauty

As an oily gal (have I mentioned that before?) you’ll know I’ve always struggled with balance between giving my skin what it needs and over saturating the bloody thing.

As ever its a work in progress but if you want to read all about how I added some much need hydration to my skincare routine in seven days then stick around kids!

The Give Me Cosmetics Day Cream with Niacinamide & Retinol is not only…

  • Skin boosting and intensely hydrating,

It also boasts a…

  • Non greasy formula that absorbs quickly as well as incorporating anti-ageing properties and contains vitamin e.

Our Day Cream adds a luxury finish to your morning skincare routine.

givemecosmetics.com

Look at how plump and fresh my skin looks!

Give Me Cosmetics Day Cream

I love how creamy it felt on the skin. It also dried down very quickly to a demi matte finish which was perfect for using as a base under my makeup. great for layering!

The product was plentiful whilst the packaging was compactand not at all bulky so perfect for travelling.

The Day Cream costs £25 and is also paraben-free.

BLOGTOBER X BLOGR CHALLENGE 2021 WEEK 3 – THE IMPORTANCE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN BUSINESS (BLOGTOBER – DAY TWENTY-ONE)

by Dreadfully Kelly, posted in Lifestyle

Social media is absolutely vital for any business in this day and age.

There are currently nearly 45 million Facebook users in the UK whilst over 30 million people use Instagram. These two platforms are a hive of activity and potential custom and that’s without taking into consideration the 15 million people who spend hours a day on Twitter and the ever growing popularity of TikTok (which is without a doubt one of the biggest social media success stories to date and allows the most chance of going viral from a single piece of content).

Visual content is essential in the hospitality and travel industry.

“Our media consumption habits are changing, today it is more likely that your audience will seek out photos and videos on social media before making a booking, in fact the social media presence and visual identify of a brand is often one of the final decision makers for consumers when proceeding with a booking.”

Roxii Hoare-Smith, The Importance of Social Media for Hotels as featured on daviestanner.com

I have a fierce passion for social media and content creating. Having started a beauty blog and Instagram page as a hobby in 2019 I have since built relationships with brands I could only ever have dreamed of working with previously. Whilst I understand that some of this is down to being in the right place at the right time I truly believe that the hard work I have put in to building my profile and personalising my content has paid off.

I appreciate that working within the hospitality industry or showcasing the unique qualities of a business are very different to the type of content I usually create but I am confident that the skills are transferable to some degree and that’s why I decided to write this post.

It’s completely out of my comfort zone but somethings that can be essential to your growth.

Your business might be in its infancy but it’s never too early to build your brand. Social media can help increase awareness of the products you sell or services you offer and has become an integral part of a modern day marketing strategy.

It’s also a chance to show off the personality behind the screen which is a great way of building relationships with your customers which will undoubtedly lead to the kind of loyalty you’ll need to succeed.

Take a chance on different kinds of content. Reels are huge right now and there are always fun trends read and waiting to be jumped on and tweaked to fit your niche.

Maybe you have a blog feature on your website that is gathering some cobwebs? Get out there and write a post that’ll captivate your audience and show em what you’ve got. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It just needs to be ‘you’.

Isn’t that what social media really excels at? Showing the world who you truly are and what makes you special? It’s exactly the same when it comes to businesses and brands. Make it work for you.

You’ve got this!

Feature photo credit – Shannen Lythgoe

GIVE ME COSMETICS ‘THE HAIRCARE BUNDLE’ REVIEW (BLOGTOBER – DAY SIXTEEN)

by Dreadfully Kelly, posted in Beauty

Post contains gifted products. All views are my own.

Please don’t tell me I own too many haircare products. I don’t need that kind of negativity in my life.

Have you tried ‘The Haircare Bundle’ by Give Me Cosmetics?

‘The Haircare Bundle’ includes…

An amazing Coconut & Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner duo (that come in their brand new easy squeeze bottles for maximum efficiency) to give you that extra oomph during these dastardly colder months.

Plus the most gorgeous Argan Oil & Coconut Oil Hair Mask which is the absolute pièce de résistance.

And if you aren’t already convinced then let me tell you a little bit about your new favourite shampoo and conditioner!

Give Me Cosmetics ‘The Haircare Bundle’

They are both paraben-free and contain a healthy dose of nutrients such as provitamins B5 which is used to increase elasticity in the hair strands and absorb water content for added moisture.

Enriched with a gentle infusion of Coconut & Argan oils, the pair work to together to moisturise, support & strengthen hair follicles for thoroughly cleansed soft & shiny hair, packed with volume & bounce.

Give Me’s Hair Mask blends natural Argan Oil and Coconut Oil which will help you achieve that smooth & silky look/feel as well as improving the condition and elasticity of your hair.

Before & After using ‘The Haircare Bundle’ by Give Me Cosmetics

They smell divine and have left my hair looking and feeling pretty damn good even if I do say so myself.

You can pick up yours for £27.