Battle of the Bronzers

As the summer months disappear and the cold, crisp winter days arrive we all start to lose that beloved, radiant summer tan.  However, with the help of these bronzers, mastering that gentle golden glow in the winter months isn't all that hard!

Illamasqua Powder Blush in Disobey

Officially, this shade isn't classed as a bronzer because Illamasqua have actually put it within their 'Powder Blusher' range…however, I think this is the perfect bronzing shade. It’s not too dark, not too light, not at all orange and the perfect "biscuit" shade for paler complexions.   Like most other Illamasqua products, Disobey comes in sleek black, glossy packaging.  Illamasqua say their Powder Blushers are "colour-intense and highly pigmented", and they are absolutely right about the pigmentation, a little goes a long way.  Disobey can definitely be used as a blush or bronzer and as it’s matte it’s also ideal for subtly contouring the face (I like to use a Real Techniques Multitask Brush), especially for fairer skin tones as it doesn't create that "muddy" effect some bronzers give, its also really finely milled so goes on effortlessly.

Verdict: A lovely multi-purpose bronzer, blush and contourer that is great for paler skin, I think it’s worth the splurge! 

Where to buy: Illamasqua Powder Blushers, £21.50 from www.illamasqua.com.

Benefit Hoola

Well isn't my beloved and much used Hoola looking a bit worse for wear! Benefits 'Hoola' is another completely matte bronzer, which is more of a true brown tone compared with Disobey, which is slightly lighter.  This bronzer still looks really natural on the skin and just gives an overall beautiful sun kissed look. When used for contouring, it creates a slightly darker look, but still gives a lovely effect. This is my go-to bronzer when I'm wearing a slightly heavier, evening look!  The application is easy, just like Disobey it’s pigmented yet still finely milled so looks flawless when applied correctly.  In terms of packaging, it comes in the typical Benefit box; it may not be the sturdiest of packaging (as you can see!), but its cute, right? 

Verdict: It has been the UK's No.1 Bronzer for the past 5 years because it’s suits a wide range of skin tones, so if you haven't already, I’d definitely recommend you give it a go! 

  

Where to buy: Benefit 'Hoola' retails for £23.50 from Benefit Stores, Counters and various Websites.  

Sleek Contour Kit in Light

Sleek are quickly becoming one of my favourite high street beauty brands as their products are completely affordable, and the quality of these are just as good as any 'high end' products. The Contour kit comes in three different shades Light, Medium and Dark. I use the light shade.  The packaging is simple, matte black and just the right size.  My favourite part of the packaging is actually the really handy mirror on the inside; this is perfect to throw in your handbag for any touch-ups on the go!  The two shades included are a matte brown for bronzing and contouring and an iridescent, champagne colour for highlighting. Both colours have great colour pay-off and blend out really nicely.  I would definitely compare the bronzer in this kit to ‘Hoola’ by Benefit; the little added bonus of a highlighter just adds a little something extra to this product too!  

Verdict: The Sleek Contour Kit is a lovely product that compares well with more expensive versions, so a complete bargain. If you're looking for a great contour kit that's affordable, this product is for you.

Where to buy: The Sleek Contour Kit retails for £6.49 from the Sleek Website, Boots and Superdrug. 

Have you tried any of these bronzers? Are there any bronzers you recommend?  Lots of love, Hayley x

The Perfect, All Round Cleanser | Lush Ultrabland

I bought the LUSH Ultrabland Facial Cleanser after a recommendation from one of the girls in the shop. When I first read up on the product it had mixed reviews, however, I'm always willing to give new products a go! I had been using Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish for years before I discovered this gem, and although I still love it, it’s taken a back seat for the moment. Lush Ultrabland is said to be the cleanser that Lush fanatics swear by, and I can see why! 

The packaging is pretty standard, the simple black lush tub.  The product itself is lovely, made primarily with beeswax and rose, it’s very much like a balm rather than a cream cleanser…almost like the much talked about Emma Hardie Cleansing Balm.  The cleanser also contains honey, which has amazing antiseptic qualities so helps to keep blemishes at bay! The only downfall is the smell, the product is made from beeswax, so obviously has a slight waxy smell, it’s not unbearable, it just doesn't smell lovely. 

I massage this product across my face in circular motions before taking it off with a damp, warm cloth; I like to use the muslin cloths from Liz Earle. A little goes a long way, as when you warm the product up in your hands it seems to multiply. It takes all my foundation off really well, although can leave some mascara, but we all know that mascara can be stubborn! So, I recommend using a separate eye make up remover. After cleansing I always sweep some toner – I like the Liz Earle Skin Tonic - over my face using a cotton pad, then follow with moisturiser. Since using this, my skin has never felt so soft, you almost 'glow' after using this cleanser. 

I really do love this product; it’s a staple cleanser for those who have sensitive skin, as the ingredients are all natural. In fact, I think this would work for any skin type.  Lush claims that if you use this everyday, you'll see improvements, as it bring the skin 'back into balance' and I couldn't agree more!

Verdict: It doesn’t smell great, but it’s a great price, ideal for sensitive skin and definitely worth a try! 

LUSH Ultrabland Facial Cleanser (RRP £6.95 45g/RRP £10.95 100g) is available from LUSH stores.

What are your holy grail cleansers?

Lots of love,

Hayley x