Nail Add Ons: Champneys Softening Hand Scrub & OPI Nail Envy Nail Strengthener |

I love nothing more then treating my hands to a good pamper. They always seem to get dry around this time of year more then ever with the central heating and blasts of cold winds daily. My nails have been horrible for a little while and i needed a couple of products in particular to help get things back on track.

Champneys is a brand i have only recently tried with the body butter that has been in a post recently and with it being such a great product i thought i would try something else from the brand. I noticed in boots that they do a hand polisher so i purchased straight away. The Champneys Softening Hand Scrub is a gentle exfoliator that gently softens the skin and moisturises cuticles and nails. I apply this to dry hands and work it in amongst my nails concentrating on the dry areas that surround the nail. Its not a harsh scrub and smells divine. After i have worked it into my nails i also work it into my hands and then i wash it off with colder water. It has a slight oily residue when washing off which the oil acts as a moisturiser and makes the skin feel so baby soft and smooth. I love using this every week to help battle with dryness and it really works. You dont need to use too much and i think at £6 its a good little product to have.

The next product which i have been using in conjunction with the hand scrub is OPI's Nail Envy Nail Strengthener but the mini version. Its a strengthening base coat which helps peeling, cracking and broken nails to get back into full health with wheat protein and calcium. I have been applying this every few days ontop of each coat as directed and have seen such a good difference in the strength of my nails and appearance. I havent been using nail varnish on top for a good few weeks now and aswell as the base coat and no nail varnish it has given that much needed boost. The base coat dries quickly and it has really helped to build my nails strength back up. So i would really recommend if you have dry brittle nails to give this a whirl.

Do you suffer from dry nails and hands?

Nail Add Ons: Sally Hansen Green Tea + Bamboo Nail Strengthener & Rimmel Ultra Shine Top Coat |

If you are a big nail lover like myself and love switching up the colour on your nails weekly then finding products that give your nails a much needed boost or shine may be something you look for but not necessarily have in your stash. My nails lately have become really dry and somewhat brittle and to have no colour on my nails it just feels weird but for a good week or so this is my aim to let them have a big of downtime away from polish. Wearing nail polish frequently actually wears your nails down even though it may not show signs and once in a blue moon i catch a glimpse of them looking bleak. Ive had the Sally Hansen Tea + Bamboo Nail Strengthener for a little while and it is my go to nail aid. It aims to bond and seal fragile nail layers to resist breaking and with regular uses help nails back to full health. If you are wanting bare nails then just applying one coat will be perfect but for getting colour back on your nails you apply it as a base coat and then as a top coat over the colour which helps to seal and protect. The drying is pretty quick so ideal if you are a little impatient. The finish of the nails is super glossy and i realy love that look with nails. After using this for a week i noticed that after my nails had slowly started to show signs of chipping that my nails looked so much more stronger and no peeling whatsoever. I really think using this regular would benefit my nails.

To add to my nails when painting i like to use a top coat which makes my nail polish last alot longer then without. I have been loving the Rimmel Ultra Shine Top Coat as its has a lovely wide brush which covers the whole nail within two strokes and seems to pick up just the right amount of product. The finish is super glossy which makes the nails gleam in the light. The lasting power using this for me is about 6-8 days and with only two chips which i think is amazing for a drugstore product. The drying time isnt too bad but not overly quick. I love using this product and even on my toes too!!

Have you tried either of these products?

NOTD: Rimmel 60 Second Nail Polish 'Ring A Ring O' Roses' |

Being a lover of swapping my nail colours every week i like to try new colours all the time. The latest addition to my nail obsession is the Rimmel 60 Second Nail Polish in the shade' ring a ring o'roses'. Its a beautiful baby pink colour and almost looks like a bubblegum pink colour in certain lights. Its a very sheer colour so for this reason i had to use two coats to make it alot thicker and the colour more visible. Its a girly colour for sure and i just love this colour so much. Even in winter il still be wearing this colour. 

I dont agree with the 60 second drying time as i think a few minutes it takes to dry. I also added a topcoat to make my nails look more glossy because im not too keen of the matte colour on nails. 

Overall love the colour, love the brush as its just right and i equally love the formula. A good 4/5 days without chipping for me so that suits.

Rimmel 60 Second Nail Polish Ring A Ring O'Roses

 

What do you think of this colour?

 

 

Review / NOTD: Collection Lasting Gel Nail Polish |

I love painting my nails a little too much. Even after throwing out alot of polishes that had gone all gloopy its given me more permission to go and buy some more for my collection. As i have probably said many of times on my nail posts i do like to change my colour every week depending on the mood im feeling as i dont go for nail colours just because of the current season. 

The latest addition to my collection is the Collection Lasting Gel Nail Polish in 'Red Hot'. Now i noticed these on a stand near to the checkout and i was so drawn in with the word 'gel'. The lastest nail crazy is definately the gel polishes ranging from Bourjois, Maybelline, Barry M. I have all of these formulas from those brands so i thought why not give a go with the collection bunch. At a mere £2.50 and currently on offer i couldnt refuse. I opted for the shade 'red hot' as its a classic sophisticated colour in my opinion. Its a gorgeous deep red and really adds abit of class to the nails. The brush is wide so its helpful for application only taking a couple of swipes. The drying time is a few minutes not as quick as some of the others though.

The formula of these are as equal to the other brands i have mentioned. Its super glossy with only one coat on and with two its a dream. I have only experienced one chip out of the 6 days ive been wearing it which i think is a pretty good job to be honest. I think that this shade would be good if you were wearing a plain outfit as the red will really give some colour and if you are a season follower of nails then this is lovely autumn/winter shade. 

Have you tried the collection gel polishes?

Collection Lasting Gel Nail Polish in 'Red Hot'

Summer Nail Picks |

( Left to Right: Mua All Nude, Maybelline Mint for Life, Bourjois Melon, Barry M Grapefruit, Illamasqua Obsess, China Glaze Orange Knockout (neon) )

When it comes to nail colours i either opt for bright colours or pastels. Simple as that. I tend to stick to the same colours and end up having about 4 of the same shades in one colour which can be abit annoying!! Seen as its still the summer season i thought i would share with you some of my favourite nail colours that are perfect for beach days, holidays and even summer days out. Even though the sun is not shining today hopefully the weather might change to give us another couple of days sun before we have the constant rain everyday (grim). 

There is always a pattern when it comes to my holiday shades i always have a classic nude/white for when i return from holiday or are tanned. I think that this colour always makes you appear alot more browner and it always looks flattering. The MUA All Nude is meant to be a dupe for Essie's classic Fiji. It takes a couple of coats to build up to a good classic white but i love it and it only cost £1 which is a complete bargain. 

A pastel mint is one of my favourite colours for spring/summer and i love having this colour. I think that if you were wearing an outfit like denim it really brings that pop of colour to an outfit without being too over the top. I had alot of compliments when i wore this colour on my nails. Its so pretty!! I also love the brush of this polish and the long lasting wear. I went 6 days without a chip.

A peachy colour is right up my street. I love this colour as its not so out there but its a very classic colour. I think that this is perfect for beach days and it always reminds me of the beach for some reason. Again i love this formula as its so thick and fast drying. I really want to get my hands on some more colours from this range. 

Barry M Gelly polishes are still big within the blogging world and its definately a hype that is a big thumbs up. The Grapefruit shade is a lovely rosey pink shade and gives your super glossy nails too. Its so affordable and i always seem them with offers too. This shade is one that i would wear if i was wearing black. I like that pop of colour and its super girly too!!

Illamasqua Obsess is one of my all time favourite colours. Even though its a recent purchase of this year its just the most fun colour i have ever seen. Its a bright fuschia pink and is so so pretty for summer. I just adore everything about it from the brush to the formula. Love love love. 

Lastly China Glaze Orange Knockout is perfect for summer. The neon orange is an amazing colour and even in the dark it sort of glows up. This would be ideal for going out clubbing or if you just fancied wearing an eye catching neon colour and trying something new. 

What are your summer nail picks?

Review : Bourjois 1 Seconde Nail Polish Meli Melon |

One of my all time favourite things to do is paint my nails. Now i wish i had an artistic flair and be able to create some cute nail art. Believe me ive tried and failed. I love to paint my nails when im not working in the spa and alternate the colour depending on my mood. Yes i am that girl that doesnt paint nail colours going on season. 

I love the glossy finish on nails and im not a matte nail girl. So when i saw the Bourjois 1 Seconde Nail Polish it just had to be mine. First of all the colour ' melon' is the perfect summer colour. Its a lovely rosey peachy colour and looks great with a tan :) 

The formula is amazing with a gel consistancy and a glossy shine it creates a lovely neat and groomed nails. The size of the brush is really thick which means with two strokes to one nail its quick and fast for application. Speaking of fast the actual drying time is very quick which is a huge plus. Following on with two coats and your nails will look divine. The only downside to this polish is the packaging as its quite hard to store with the actual top of the polish so big. 

I would love to see this range in more neutral colours for all year round. 

Bourjois 1 Seconde Nail Polish Meli Melon

Would you buy this range of polishes? :)

NOTD: China Glaze polish

 

 

 

 

 My first time purchasing a nail polish from China Glaze and i brought it in the shade 'something sweet' which is a pretty pink pastel colour. I love that its a really fun and girly colour!! I was amazed at how big the bottles of varnish actually are which i think is fab :) i brought mine from ebay for about £4 which i think is a good price if you shop around abit!!

 

Have you tried any nail varnish from China Glaze? any fave colours?

 

 

February Favourites....

This month i have been trying out alot more products to try and improve my skin with it having so many bad days and also my hair i wanted to strengthen it abit more. Ive been loving trying out more products and being out of my comfort zone with certain products. Aside from the beauty this month has been an okayish month ive been so bogged down with uni work and i cant wait till easter when i get my next break. Anways here are my faves for this month :)

The first item i have been loving is the Elemis Enzyme peel. If you havent read my review on it then go and check it out!! its the best exfoliator ive ever used!! It has a gorgeous smell, a cream like texture not bitty and works amazing on your skin. I have too much love for this little beauty!! 

Ive been loving painting my nails more frequently but still find it a pain having to take off my varnish after 3 days to then being able paint them again because of work and this pretty quik remover does the job. So simple to use and cheap. Its quite small aswell so its handy to travel with aswell!! All you need do is swirl your nail around in the spongey part inside and then you are all ready to go.

The Barry m gelly hi shine nail varnishes have really been my go to colours this month. Ive already for the pinky/red colour and this blueberry one just adds to my little collection. They are so shiny and stay on so well. Beautiful colours that are ideal for spring/summer or if you are like me and want to see abit of high colour on your nails on a daily basis. 

The vitamin c reviver spray from body shop has been more of a trial with this product as ive used the range previously but the serum. Ive loved using this in a morning after my shower as its so fruity and refreshing. Its been amazing to wake my skin up and also me :) but overall ive seen more of a difference in my skin alot more brighter and has helped to keep my skin looking more radiant. 

The next product ive been loving is the herbal essence leave in treatment. Ive found that its made my split ends none existant and my hair feels so nourished and stronger. I havent been using many heated hair tools this month and i think that by having abit of time out with that and using this hair treatment as an intensive nourishment its really worked wonders.

 The last item ive been loving is the sammy o thickening spray. I have really thin and fine hair so anything that gives me abit more thickness is what i really need. This little beauty has made my hair feel and look alot thicker near my crown and as enabled me to try out more hairstyles.

What have been your favourites this month?

My Affordable Favourites - Nail Varnishes Under £5...

I love painting my nails i find it really therapeutic even though i arent the best nail painter. Nail varnishes are one of my favourite and most brought items i will get when shopping. I get so easily distracted if i see a pretty colour :) Colours for me change my mood so much so i tend to go for bright colours!! If i dont wear nail varnish for at least a day i will feel abit 'naked' so to speak without them painted. Here are my lovely favourites.....

1. Nail Paint By Barry M - 272 Shocking Pink - Boots £2.99

I love this colour i think for me its one of those colours that i will wear throughout summer constantly something bright and in your face. Its such a gorgeous colour.

2. Maxfactor Maxeffect Mini Nail Polish - 28 Pretty in Pink - Boots £3.99

This colour for me looks more like a nudey peachy colour which i think is lovely for this season trend as more nudey colours are in. I love that its really simple but also would look lovely with a more sophisticated outfit.

3. 17 Lasting Fix Nail Polish - Pink Grapefruit - Boots £2.99

This colour pink is less intense then the number 1. But i still love it all the same. Again i think its perfect for spring or if you after a dash of intense colour.

4. 17 Fast Finish Nail Polish - Garnet - Boots £2.99

One of my favourite colours ever. This colour would be perfect for valentines or even if you are going out and not dressing up too much your nails will just so beautiful. Love this :)

5. Maxfactor Maxeffect Mini Nail Polish - 38 Purple Haze - Boots £3.99

Purple is one of my favourite colours and i think having a dark deep purple is perfect for this month now and then slowly going into brighter colours. This colour really makes me happy whenever i wear it hmmm strange...

6. 17 Lasting Fix Nail Polish - Orange Soda - Boots £2.99

Love this colour for on the beach and the summer months. Not nomally a huge fan of orange but a splash of this colour on your nails just feels right as a holiday colour.

7. MUA Fairy Dust Nails - Rose Dust - MUA Online £2.99

At first glances it looks really glittery but it applies on so good with one coat and adds a touch of girlyness and sparkle to your nails.

What are your favourite colours on your nails? :)



HUGE THANKYOU - Just wanted to say a massive thankyou i have reached my a milestone with over 100 followers. I cant tell you how much this means to me and how happy it has made me. It means so much that i what i post and say is interesting to others. Alot of people will probably agree that they never expect to gain followers and like me im so chuffed. So thankyou everyone!!

LAQA & CO - Nail Polish Pen

Im a big nail lover. Im a sucker for a new twist on nail products and this polish pen completely drew me in. The first thing i noticed was the gorgeous art work on the packaging. Each colour has a different artist on the box. 

 

 

 

The design is by Carol Del Angel. Carol is an illustrative artist from London and her specialty is mixing photography & freehand but she’s also outrageously good at rich patterns.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The colour i chose was Squid Ink - its a beautiful shade of teal. (Definitely has brightened my day! Nail colours changes my mood big time. You have to give the pen a good shake before application and then give the coloured end a push. You may have to push it 5-6 times but be patient :) i applied 3 coats which i think you really need to get that high glossy look. 

Check out this leaflet that came with it - You might not be able read all the writing. (It made me giggle) !! This is what it reads:

 

 

I, the leaflet of this product.....

would just like to say how wonderful you're looking today. REALLY!!! I know what you're thingking by the way " A TALKING LEAFLET IS RIDICULOUS!". Well missy who's the one asking a leaflet questions? YOU? Quit questioning the leaflet and read carefully. See the artwork lathered all over the box? it was crated by an INCREDIBLY TALENTED YOUNG ARTIST. And because they're talented and young they'll see a share of profit whenever you buy me. And if you just hae to know more about these awesome artists. Check out LAQA AND CO.COM. Just quietly thank GOODNESS you brought one. You dont want anyone blaming you for the starvation of young creative people. But if that doesnt bother you at least your nails will look good. 

(ha!! i loved this leaflet never read anything quite as funny before)

 

 

Overall i love this colour and the quality of the polish. The pen may get abit stuck at points if you have to keep pumping it. But the pen on it is really lovely and easy to use. It is abit pricey for nail varnish but if you wanting to try out a new concept with high glossy colours then i would recommend it!!

This is an exclusive at Selfridges - For £11. here

 

Do you buy high end nail varnishes? What are your thoughts?

 

 

NOTD & Plans for the weekend!!

As i have said on my blog i wont just be posting about beauty but also my life going ons and bits of fashion. I think it will be nice to look back of what i have done this year!!

 

Today in Stoke it is chucking it down with snow like it is across britain. To be honest i am not a big lover of snow i hate being cold :( 

 

 

So i have been paining my nails - white nail varnish with cute tuxedo nail decor!! So cute right?!!

 

 

 

 

My plans for tonight are to watch all of these rented films whilst having a little munch. That is after i have watched all the soaps of course :) Love cosey nights in. I am more of a staying in girl but i do love big nights out where it happens every few months then i get more excited and looking forward to it!! I think because i went out so much like every other weekend when i was 18 it just got so boring. The clubs by me used to be amazing such a good night but now its surrounded by 18 stuck up know it alls grrrrr....!! 

 

 

 

 

(the view outside my window. Snowyyyyyy )

 

The rest of my weekend will consist of spending time with my lovely boyfriend ( 6 years with him seems a long time but its been the best just to add)and then need to prepare for uni on monday as all of my semester has changed times and modules so need to get my head in gear thats if the snow isnt bad otherwise another snow day for me yayyyy :) 

 

 

( the no makeup look whilst rocking my knitted headband indoors. Yes its strange but i suffer with really bad earache :( )

 

What is everyones plans this weekend? would you want see more life posts from me in the future? :)

 

 

NOTD - Rimmel

I am very much a person that a colour can make or break my mood (bit weird right?) i dont mean that i avoid wearing black because i associate that as a death colour. Its like say if i see bright colours say for example red it really does lift my mood. So i always try to wear bright colours and today is no exception. 

 

 

Naturally as it is winter most people would opt for wearing dark colours like greens and deep reds but no not me today. This gorgeous purple has to be one of my FAVOURITE colours :) Its absolutely gorgeous and has lifted my mood!!

 

 (Sorry for not having the best photography skills it was abit rushed and i am still learning so please be nice :) )

This by Rimmel London is the 702 Marshmallow Heaven Colour. It glides on so easily and has a lovely shine to it without even putting a top coat on. 

I work at a spa and i cant wear nail varnish on my nails so if i want to wear it in the week i have put it on for say 2 days then i have to take it off the next which is so annoying so when i do have the chance to wear a colour for longer it feels great!!

What are your favourite colours at the moment?

 

 

NOTD: OPI

This little beauty is from the OPI Touring America Collection. It is a really dusty salmony coral colour with a hint of pink/gold shimmer. (picture doesnt do it justice) The shimmer is extremely subtle and is only seen in bright light. 

 

I just think its a lovely little colour that glides on well and is a simple colour that goes well with most things. 

What colours are on your nails today?

 

Love Emily xx