Disordered Eating and Mental Health.

Afternoon all,

I'm going to write about something serious. Something that has had a significant impact on my life. Something that still scares me today even though I'm progressing and looking forward to the future.
That something is 'Disordered Eating'.

You may well be thinking "Oh she means Eating Disorder". Sorry but no, I mean Disordered Eating. I never heard of the term until 2013 when I was diagnosed with this. Before I get in too in depth, let me back track a little.

Growing up, I always loved food. Especially when I was a teenager, I could eat and eat and eat. My friends and I came to the decision that I had an 'inner fat man' called Brian - so many jokes, we would laugh til we couldn't breathe! However I maintained a healthy weight by being active and eating healthy meals (very important in life), being 5"6, I would be around 130-132 pounds (recommended weight 125-155 pounds).

My life was pretty much going according to plan, odd hiccup here and there. Received an offer to study at university and I couldn't be happier. I enjoyed first year and passed my exams ready to knuckle-down for second year. Back home for the summer, I distinctly waking up one morning and having the thought "Food is disgusting". No idea where that thought came from, wasn't like me to think that! But as I went on with my daily life, the foods I would normally happily chow down didn't seem to have the same satisfaction. I thought "I'm getting older, maybe my tastebuds are changing" and didn't give it much thought after that. It was only when a few weeks later whilst on a family holiday, sitting down with my family for lunch I was presented with my meal and a wave of nausea came over me, I realised this really wasn't normal for me. During that holiday, I found it difficult to eat a meal or find food that didn't repulse me. I ended up snacking throughout the day on much smaller portions instead of having a structured meal plan - this did not help my diabetes (I inject when I eat so had to inject so many times!).

Time passed and I was moving into my second year house with my flatmates ready to start the academic year. My eating habits hadn't improved, I was still constantly snacking and whenever I tried to have a "normal" meal, I'd end up leaving most of it! Soon enough, by late October, I started to feel really sick on a daily basis and lack energy (a real struggle where I studied as campus was perched on a steep hill). I'd begin to miss the odd lecture here and there and just catch up whenever I could, but it wasn't just uni I missed, I began to avoid social activities because the pain in my stomach was too much.
Weeks flew by and I started to spend a lot of time in my room curled up on my bed, writhing in pain. I would sleep for a couple of hours, lie awake in pain, sleep for a couple of hours, lie awake in pain... a vicious cycle. Whenever I tried to eat, the pain would be too much that I'd stop. The less I ate, the less pain. A very bad idea.

Christmas soon came around and I could tell my mum knew something was up. I had lost weight and I wasn't enjoying any of the food provided or generally being involved in social situations. I told her it was just a bug and it'd pass (I'm a stubborn person who tries to do everything on her own).
Back at uni, I had passed my exams but after an insane amount of revision. Pretty much 3 months worth of lectures in a week. Stressed wasn't the word.
By February, I had lost a lot of weight. Being a healthy size 10, I dropped to a size 6 and was surviving on 300 calories a day. My life had turned upside down. Spent my days in bed or lying in a bath to try and keep myself warm. Barely went to uni, hardly saw my friends and it was upsetting.
Mum came to visit me before we broke up for the spring holiday. I literally put all my effort into getting dressed and walking down the stairs to greet my mum at the door. As soon as she saw me, I noticed the shock in her eyes. I opened my arms for a hug but I couldn't properly hug her, my skin and bones felt so fragile it would feel horrible to be touched.

Back home, the pain was indescribable. I tried to live what would have been my normal life and my mum wanted to help. We figured a nice walk in the mornings would help. I could barely walk past the driveway. Mid-walk I would crumple into a heap, crying in pain and severely out of breath. The frustration this caused my family broke my heart. I didn't know what to tell them, I didn't know what was wrong with me. We went to our doctors but didn't get a solid answer so we visited our friend, a private GP. He lived back in our home county - we had moved from Buckinghamshire to Gloucestershire during the summer of 2012 to a small village, closer to my dad's work.
The appointment felt like torture, trying to figure out what was wrong, I could barely talk I was so deprived of energy when I was asked "How do you feel towards food?". I broke down. I admitted the thought of food repulsed me to the extremes. He performed a blood test but was unsuccessful the first time as my veins had shrunk so much, as soon as the needle hit the vessel, it burst. This was due to lack of nutrition. After the appointment, I was in a state of shock. He diagnosed me with Anorexia. But I was confused also. I thought Anorexia was an eating disorder where the person would deliberately keep their body as low as possible. I wanted to eat. I really wanted to eat but I just physically couldn't!

Home again, I was ordered to bed rest - the doctor said I shouldn't even be walking 10 feet let alone going for a daily walk - and to start attending an 'Eating Disorders Clinic'. My world was blown apart from that day. I had to stay out of uni (luckily, I had enough marks to scrape 2nd year without doing my summer exams), I had no social life, my diabetes was severely messed up, I looked like a skeleton and I hated life. Depression overtook me.

Never in my life had I thought I would suffer from a mental health condition. Always described as a friendly, bubbly girl - quite the contrast at that point - I thought it couldn't happen to me.
Even though these problems developed over a 6 months, it happened all so quickly.

My depression got so bad, I started to have dark thoughts. Horrible thoughts. If I saw them through, I wouldn't be here today.
Depression on its own is an unusual thing. If you haven't suffered it - I hope to God you never will - it's difficult to understand. The best way I can try to describe it is your mind and body is no longer yours. Its like this dark cloaked figure has taken over you and you can't escape. My family couldn't recognise me any more but they were so unbelievably supportive. Without them, I don't know what would have happened. The immense struggle they must have suffered, I can't get my head around it.
I remember I was sat in the bath, crying my eyes out and I looked up to see my mum standing in her bedroom just looking at me with tears streaming down her face. Times like that, I knew I had to get better, my mum needed in me in so many ways. I couldn't let her down.

My appointments soon came round with the Eating Disorders Specialists. Most traumatic appointment of my life - even worse than being diagnosed with diabetes. I tried my best to explain that I really wanted to eat food and be "normal Ellie", I wasn't trying to keep my weight down, my skeletal figure was not what I wanted - I just physically couldn't eat. A small bite would cause unbelievable pain. They came to the conclusion 'Disordered Eating'.

I won't go into all the detail (this post is already wayyy too long!). Long story short, I had to learn to eat again. A long and painful process but it was the only way. It seemed like I had to eat all day long, 3 grapes would take me an hour. I know it sounds like I'm being over-dramatic but its so hard to describe what it was like. We had to "train my brain" into thinking food was good. With all the pains, I had subconsciously associated food with pain. If I saw food, my face would turn white. Being pushed around the supermarket - I couldn't walk I was so fragile - I would burst into tears and get the shakes from looking at all the food. This was the beginning of my debilitating anxiety.

From the fear of food, anxiety consumed me. I developed "ticks" to try and control myself. I would scratch my head/face and tap my foot - didn't even realise I was doing it! The next stage was panic attacks. My god, that was an experience and a half! My panic attacks were so bad, I had to be hospitalised on several occasions. They say 100 beats per minute is the normal heart rate. Mine would reach over 250. My anxiety had to be controlled with a concoction of drugs. Life was a real blur. When I had a mild panic attack (I say mild, it was still extreme), the only way I could become relatively calm - enough to put my mind into a sort of unconscious state - was to go for a drive. Bless my parents would drive for a good couple of hours in the middle of the night to help me. Can't thank them enough. They went above and beyond.

Months passed and I was slowly able to eat toddler sized portions. I was able to go for a five minute walk. I was able to laugh at my dad's ridiculous jokes. But I was no way near ready. After many conversations with my family, doctors and my professors, we decided the best option was to drop-out of university. A heart wrenching decision but one that I had to make, my life literally depended on it. I took the decision hard. From a young age, my life goal was to graduate from university. I don't know why it was so important to me, it just was. To this day I still get upset about leaving university. You may think "why not apply again?" - Things are complicated and taking 3 years out to study just wouldn't be the best option. If I win the lottery and my health is okay, then yes, I will do.

My brother's graduation soon came around, so determined to be there for him and the family but it wasn't to be. I suffered a major panic attack, trouble was, we drove
 3 hours to Exeter and stayed in a hotel, this made things a lot worse. It was 11pm and my parents didn't know what to do, they were deciding who would stay with my brother and who would take me home. This tore me apart, seeing my parents make a decision like that was awful. I couldn't let that happen, it may be the only graduation they get to go to. We decided to go home, the parents get a few hours sleep and then make their way back to my brother. I was happy they went. Set myself up with happy Disney films and our neighbour came to check on me.

A year later, I was up to 100 pounds and could function on a small scale. Got a part-time job filing and things were looking a little brighter. Started to enjoy life a little more. Few months after that, I actually went on a date! February 2014, 115 pounds, offered a job and met the love of my life. My demons have not totally disappeared. I'm no longer on depression medication which is good but my anxiety can be difficult. I have methods to help ease it but I its something that'll stick with me from now on. My diabetes is better too after many dramatic changes (another health blip early 2015- food intolerances! That'll be another post ;) ).

Wow. Felt quite relieving writing that. Some form of release!
There is so much I wanted to say and put across to whoever reads this - I have no idea even if any of the points I wanted make got through. Probably a big ramble!

I guess I wanted to say - to put it in a neat little box - please don't bottle up your feelings. I had no idea the power of talking things through could have. It saved my life! No joke.
A lot of people don't understand mental health, I used to be one of them. I used to think people with depression are just over exaggerating, just enjoy life. Its not that simple. My whole perception of mental health has changed (for the better!).
If you are struggling with anything, seek help. No matter what it is. Remember, you are not alone.

I am so lucky to have parents like mine. I can't even put into words how much they mean to me. I love them immensely.

xxx

Miracle! - MaxFactor Review

Afternoon all,

Ever find yourself in one of those situations where you're in town waiting for someone but they're running late/missed their bus/cancelled so you have a lot of time to kill? Yes? Well be careful, you are in danger.
Don't worry, I'm not talking about physical danger. I'm talking about 'Buying Crap You Don't Need' danger (BCYDN Syndrome).

My makeup collection is extensive. Always loved makeup and when I was accepted to study Makeup Artistry, I went into a frenzied state of buying more. Expensive yes, do I regret it? No.
My foundation collection alone is quite impressive - mousses, liquids, sprays... So I have no need to buy any more. I've told myself for months, "wait until you have finished at least one bottle of foundation before you buy another". BCYDN Ellie did not listen on this occasion.

Waltzing around town, I wandered into a very popular cosmetics & pharmaceutical store, only to wind up along the makeup aisle (as per). Usually I head towards the lesser used and cheaper brands but something caught my eye.

This little beauty.

                                                                    

Intrigued by the "Liquid Illusion", I thought I'd test it. The instant I smoothed a sample on my wrist, I was hooked. Had to buy it. Five minutes later, it's nestled safely in my handbag.

Costing £12.99 - more than what I would usually pay but still a good price if you consider the range of foundations amongst the well-known brands.

The foundation comes in a compact, no bigger than the palm of your hand and comes with a sponge applicator (always handy!).
There are six shades available (left to right); Bronze, Creamy Ivory, Warm Almond, Natural, Golden and Blushing Beige.

Being fair skinned, I chose Creamy Ivory and matched my skin tone really well.

I naturally have dark circles under my eyes no matter what I try. To cover this up, I would normally apply a concealer of some kind before my foundation... No longer needed!
This 'solid to liquid' formula provides enough cover itself, I didn't need concealer. Dipping my sponge applicator gently into the foundation (bonus not having to apply lots!), the formula created a lightweight yet flawless finish and my dark circles were gone!
I've done a full day at work, walked around town in my lunch hour and been to the dentist. When I returned home, I was pleasantly surprised to see my foundation still in good condition. Doesn't look oily or worn out, still gives a glow to under my eyes.

Highly recommend trying a 'tester' in the shops, you won't be disappointed.
Safe to say (when I do run out of my other foundations), I will be purchasing this item again!

Hope you have a nice day!

Love love xxx

Eye-Eye!

Bonjour People,

When it comes to eye makeup, the possibilities are endless. There are so many different looks you can try, you could have one for each day of the month! I really like the cat-eye look, almost Egyptian like. Using liquid eyeliner, for a subtle night look I create a small but thick flick from the outer corner of my eye which is in line with the end of my eyebrow. The thickness of the top lid liner decreases as it nears the inner corner of my eye.

Today, I'm giving advice on how and what makeup to apply for eye shapes and sizes that will hopefully help you achieve the look you want.
*Note - when I mention lighter and darker shades, I don't mean something like white shadow and black shadow. You'll create an unusual look! Lighter and darker shades of the same colour please :)


Sunken Eyes
Use a light eye pencil on the inner lines of the eye to create volume. Lighter, satin shades on the eyelid with slightly darker shades higher up. Outline the outer half of the eyes with liner (pencil/liquid/gel). Try to avoid thick eyebrows.

Protruding Eyes
Eyes are very prominent features on the face. Balance this by applying a dark line with pencil on the top and bottom lid. Top being slightly thicker. Use dark shadows on the upper eyelid and light/matte shades over the crease. Apply two coats of mascara. Eyebrows should be ever so slightly wide.

Eyes Set Close Together
Draw a line along the eyelashes from the middle to the outer corner of the eye and apply a light shadow to the inner corner - bringing it up towards the eyebrow to create the effect of distance. Eyebrows should be ever so slightly wide.

Eyes Wide Apart
Apply darker shades to the inner corners and lighter shades on the outsides. Make the eyeliner more intense on the inside and two coats of mascara. Eyebrows should be relatively close to the middle (try to avoid mono-brows).

Round Eyes
To enhance, draw a line on the outer corner lengthening towards the temple. Use a darker eyeliner on the inside and outside of the lids, softening towards the outer corners. Lengthen the eyebrows towards the temple.

Droopy Eyes
Apply a darker shadow on the crease of the eyes and blend upwards. Two coats of mascara. Pearly tones under the arch of the eyebrow and keep the eyebrows thick and raised at the arch.

Small Eyes
Apply shadow on the upper eyelid blending upwards. A slightly darker in the crease. Outline the lower lid with pencil and outline the lashline. Coat the lower lashes with mascara as well. Keep the eyebrows relatively long with a high arch (try to avoid half-diamond syndrome).



Obviously I'm not saying this is what you should do if your eyes resemble the types above; eyes are most beautiful when natural. I learnt this from no wearing makeup for several months, it literally changed my life! Highly recommend.

Hope you have a nice day!

Love love xxx

Colour Choice

Bonjour People,

The world of make-up is a fascinating place. The smallest things can make a big difference. This is true when it comes to the colour of your make-up; subtle shades to vibrant bolds, each can make a statement. Everyone has their own taste, some people like to stand out whilst some like a more softer touch and that's whats great about make-up.

I would like to offer some advice to help make your decisions.
If you take each advice, e.g. Green eyes, with olive skin and red/ginger hair, you make get some contradicting information. So try and focus on one aspect - eyes, face, or hair colour..  :)


Eye Colour

This only applies for eye shadows that have a clear colour pigment and that you aim to make this visible - i.e. if you're only going to lightly dab your eyelids with minimal eye shadow, you can wear pretty much any colour you like!

Green eyes: To contrast - brown, purple, violet and red.
                    To harmonize - darker green.

Blue/Grey eyes: To contrast - pink, orange, gold, bronze.
                           To harmonize - subtle "rainbow colours" (greens, blues, purples).

Brown/Black eyes: To contrast - red, yellow, silver, green.
                                To harmonize - gold, brown, ochre, earth tones.

Example of 'Earth Tones'.


Facial Tone

It is important to choose the right colour for your skin tone as this is the foundation that you build upon (and you want your face to match the rest of your body!).

Fairer skin tone - light earth colours and peaches.
                            Try to avoid strong pink shades in foundation/powder for the cheekbones.

Olive skin tone - pearly tones for a healthy glow and pinks to highlight the cheekbones.

Tanned/Bronzed skin tone - more intense pink tones for the cheekbones.


Hair Colour 

Blondes - Everyday makeup should be light and natural, subtle pinks and beige eyeshadow, rosy blush and neutral lipsticks is perfect. Medium brown mascara for light day-look. 

For a night on the town, greys and silvers compliment blondes. Apply a sweep of a lighter grey over the entire eyelid and add a darker grey in the crease and outer corners. Add a coral blush and matte lipstick to finish the look. 

Not all blondes are the same. Platinum blondes suit cooler colours. Green, taupe and silver are great for the eyes. Stay clear of bronze/copper. Lips, any pinks can work as well reds (red with a hint of blue/purple is good). Orange lipsticks should be avoided. Honey/Caramel blondes suit a cherry red lipstick. Fairer blondes can wear almost any lip colour though bluer reds may be more suited. Golden/Reddish blondes can wear warm shades of purple on their eyes and a peachy lipstick is always good.

Brunettes/Chestnut/Black - Most of the time, pale pink lipstick and blush do not flatter dark hair colours, play around with richer colours instead. Tawny or spicy red lip colours look good on medium-dark colours whereas corals/peach lip colours and blushes suit lighter brown hair. A great look to try is warm pink/bluer red blush on the cheeks (unless wearing red lipstick, then lighter cheeks and eyes to offset the bold lip colour). Highlights in the hair also need to be considered. Brunettes with blonde highlights can wear makeup with pink undertones.

Red/Ginger - Not all, but most reds/gingers have fairer skin so it's important to balance this. Avoid foundations with a red or pink base, a sheer yellow or peachy base would be more suited. Eye colours should be more neutral; beige, camel, honey, chestnut... For a night time looks, brown eyeliner that is a little smudged looks great. Brown mascara also enhances fairer skin. Bronzers aren't usually suitable for reds/gingers, but warm-peach toned blush is good. Red lipstick can be difficult, it will be good or bad, no inbetween so choose the colour carefully. Blue/gold based reds tend to work better. Cherry pink and bright plum is surprisingly good too! Matte or lip stains look better than glossy lipsticks. 

None of the above advice are strict rules that must be followed. Rules are meant to be broken anyway!
I have natural dirty blonde hair (my work colleagues refer to me as the 'dirty blonde', take that as you will) and have blue/grey eyes with fair skin. My everyday make up consists of foundation with a peachy/pink blend, very subtle light eyeshadow to highlight under my eyebrows, black mascara, rose blush and a neutral/subtle pink lipstick. For now, I like it. 

Maybe you've experimented with your hair colour and entered the realm of the rainbow, in which case, what's your everyday makeup?

Hope you have a nice day!

Love love xxx

Whatchamacallits

Bonjour People,

Growing up and dipping my toe into the infinite pool of make-up, I thought there was only a small collection of brushes available and that you had to use them til they disintegrated! I remember using a small dual-tip eyeshadow sponge brush for everything! In one particular case, I was given a "mermaids" make-up set when I was six years old which had some extremely vibrant cream eyeshadows (which also stained your skin), and using one side of the sponge brush for all colours. Safe to say the palette and my face looked like an explosion in a paint factory.

Learning as I got older, my world opened up when I visited the make-up section in a local beauty store realising you can buy as many brushes as you want (yes, I know that sounds stupid. I was a little girl!). Not only that, the number of types of brushes! I now own over 50 brushes, 32 of which belong in a sleek black set - only for special occasions.

This post is to provide a quick description of the most basic brushes available.
First things first. When choosing your "tools" for application, the quality of the brushes will determine the quality of your make-up application. Handles must be sturdy and the bristles securely fastened. There are two types of hair used: synthetic and natural. Synthetic bristles are suitable for plastic and creamy textures like foundations, concealers and lip colours. Natural hair is normally animal hair (camel, horse,...), often used for applying shadows. I personally only use synthetic brushes, being an animal lover.

Powder Brush: Large with soft rounded bristles which pick up the perfect amount of colour and easily distributed onto the skin. Shake away any excess before using on skin.

Bevelled/Blush Brush: Shorter on one side, used for applying blushes and highlighters. The shape provides easy application which can help achieve a natural definition of the face.

Foundation Brush: Synthetic bristles, round and relatively flat. Used to apply liquid and cream foundations for a smooth complexion. The long hairs allow an even spread.

Corrector/Concealer Brush: Synthetic bristles, flat, rigid and rounded. Used for liquid correctors and concealers to hide dark circles, redness and other blemishes. The rounded shape helps with delicate application, full coverage and minimal traces.

Lip Brush: Hair is small, compact and flattened. Used to outline or fill the lips. Its fine cut allows tracing the lip contour very precisely with the point of the brush and filling in the lips with the broad side of the brush.

Fan Brush: Long, soft bristles. Used to remove excess eye shadow powder or to gently sweep and highlight the cheeks.

Eyebrow Brush: Short, firm bristles to smooth the eyebrows. Sometimes with a 'smudger' for colour onto the eyebrows or doubled up with a comb (eyelash brush).

Eyeshadow Brush: Usually comes in three sizes (small, medium, large). Used for the eyelids to blend colour. Its slightly flared shape allows dusting to soften the make-up.

Eyeliner Brush: Very fine, thin but rigid bristles. Used for a single stroke application.

Eye-crease Brush: Usually made with natural hair. Used for applying medium to dark powdered eyeshadow to the inner corner of the eye and outer corner of the eyelid to create a gradual colouring. The tapered end allows a softer finish.

Skunk Brush: Can be made from natural or synthetic hairs and is multifunctional. Used for either liquid or powder foundation. As the hairs are not so compact, the application is quite light so I prefer to use it for powders.

It is very important that you keep your make-up brushes clean. This avoids make-up clogging up the bristles and ultimately damaging them but also it helps prevent infections/bacteria that can pass from skin to skin - nobody wants that!

Easy steps to cleaning your brushes.
1) Dampen the brush slightly with lukewarm water.
2) Use a mild shampoo/hand wash and place a small amount in the palm of your hand.
3) Slowly add warm water to create a lather and start to swirl your brush so that it becomes saturated.
4) Gently squeeze out excess lather and rinse with warm water.
5) Repeat if necessary (may apply to the bigger brushes).
6) Gently pat dry with a hand towel.

Its that easy.

That's all for now, have nice a day!

Love love xxx

Light And Dark Tones To Suit Your Face Shape

Bonjour People,

Today I am writing about applying light and dark tones to your face to enhance your natural features or to help deviate away from areas that you may not want to "highlight".
Either way, I hope some of the tips I give below help in achieving the look you desire.

Light tones add brightness and volume whilst dark tones add depth and definition (stating the obvious!).

When applying, the texture and shade of the make-up can make a huge difference so choose your products carefully.
For light tones, using whiter shadows, creams and powders to highlight areas such as the inner corners of your eyes and the arch of the eyebrows. Use foundation or concealer a shade or 1/2 a shade lighter than your natural skin tone to correct dark circles or highlight cheekbones. Matte or pearly shades for your eyelids work a treat.
For dark tones, cream or powder blush that accentuates your natural skin tone to outline the cheekbone and chin.

There are general areas that many women apply "highlighters" to but the trick is not to go overboard otherwise your face will be lighter than the bulbs in the lamps!
These areas are: centre of the forehead, arch of the eyebrows, eye socket, cheeks, area between the nose and upper lip, the centre of the lips and the chin.



                             

There are general methods of applying light and dark tones for different shaped faces that would emphasize the features of the face.

Round FaceDescription: Same width and height without clearly marked facial features. Goal is to "extend" to appear more oval.
1) Gently use a dark blush under the cheekbone and from the base of the ear to the corner of the mouth.
2) Avoid dark shadows around the eyes
3) Create a slight point in the eyebrow shape so they're not quite a smooth semi-circle.

Elongated FaceDescription: Generally same width for the top 2/3 of the face but the chin area becomes narrower and lengthens slightly. Tip: Apply horizontal strokes to shorten the face.
1) Use a dark blush on the cheekbone and from the middle of the ear to the nose.
2) Apply a dark shade around the hairline on the chin.
3) When applying eyeshadow, create an enlongated shape to the outer edges of your eye socket.
4) Eyebrow shape should be fairly horizontal with the arch not being too high.

Square Face
Description: Temples and jaw have the same width. Facial features are strong and have defined lines.
Goal is to soften the face.
1) Lightly dust the jaw line with a dark shade.
2) Create a rounded eye shape with light shadow.
3) Gently apply dark blush to the cheeks - downward angle from the temples to the corner of the mouth.
4) Eyebrows should be arched and rounded.

Rectangular FaceDescription: Having strong sharp jaws and the width pretty much stays the same. Aim is to soften the jaws and shorten the face.
1) Elongate the eye shadow towards the temple.
2) Light shades to the cheekbone horizontally and from the middle of the ear to the nose.
3) Soft but dark shades around the jaw to soften it.
4) Eyebrows should be horizontal and rounded.

Triangular FaceDescription: Prominent cheekbones and a narrow jaw. Goal is to slightly balance the top half of the face with the bottom half.
1) Apply a dark shade around the hairline at the temples and gently highlight the chin.
2) Use more natural tones for the blush on the cheeks and apply slightly downward from the top of the ear to the nose.
3) Shorten the length of the eyebrows and emphasize the arch.



Cheeky Tips and TricksTo help disguise a 'double-chin', apply a dark shade to the edge of the jaw and blend into the neck.
To define your nose, apply a light colour to the central area of the nose to narrow and lengthen.
To reduce a prominent chin, apply a dark shade to the centre of the chin and blend into the neck.
To disguise a prominent nose, apply a dark shade on the tip to make it appear smaller and shorter and highlight the eyes more than the lips.


Remember, finding your perfect look will be trial and error. I have gone through the classic make-up mishaps (and probably will have more to come!) but you learn from them. Your face does change with age so have fun and play around until you find 'your look'.

Have a nice day!

Love love xxx

What's Your Skin Type? What Moisturisers Should I Use?

Bonjour People,

Wow. It has been a while since I've posted on here. I apologise for my neglect but I think I have a valid reason, unfortunately my health has not been great over the past year but hopefully now, things are looking up! Moving on...

Getting back to basics. Your skin is important, not only from a cosmetic point of view but it also plays a part in keeping you healthy; it is a form of protective barrier from harmful elements. Finding out your skin type can be extremely beneficial for both aspects. Over time, changing the products you use will help you maintain healthy skin and obtain a more flawless look.

Skin Types
Plain "Lucky" Skin - healthy, flawless appearance. Feels soft and smooth with very few blemishes such as spots and greasy areas. Almost has a 'matte' appearance.

Mixed/Combination Skin - usually uniform in colour and plump looking but may have distinct areas of oily skin such as the 'T-Zone' (nose and above the eyebrows).

Dry Skin - can feel rough in areas and may flake a little. Premature fine lines can also appear.

Oily Skin - usually plump, shiny and almost wet to touch. Wrinkles may not be as clear but pores may be visible.

Sensitive Skin - easily irritated by products and external conditions which can lead to redness and spots. Can appear scaly, especially around the eyebrows and nostrils. Skin can feel tight and dry.


To find out what skin type you have, follow the below steps:

1) Early evening - Remove all make up with wipes/cotton pad and gently rinse your face with warm water.
2) Hour later - Have a shower/bath and wash as you normally would and pat your face dry with a clean towel. Within 20 minutes, some people will be able to see what skin type they are.
Plain = good condition, few blemishes
Mixed = shiny T-Zone
Dry = tight and a little stretched
Oily = clean and shiny
Sensitive = slightly red, possibly stings a little.
3) If by then it is unclear, do not use any products on the skin until the next morning, by this time you should be able to determine your skin type.

I personally have sensitive skin.

MoisturisersI'm not going to recommend a particular brand for the skin types, there are so many that have different ingredients and desired effects plus people are individuals, they react differently to others.
I'm going to suggest the types of moisturiser you should look for if you want to try and gain healthier looking skin.

Plain "Lucky" Skin - moisturisers branded for "Normal Skin" and toner without alcohol.

Mixed/Combination Skin - treat each zone separately. Remove excess oil/grime with an astringent facial toner. Use a mattifying product before applying your foundation and hydrate the rest of the face with normal moisturiser.

Dry Skin - use water-based creams twice a day and drink plenty of water.

Oily Skin - use astringent tonic to help absorb excess oil and use water/gel based moisturisers.

Sensitive Skin - use hypoallergenic products containing soothing ingredients such as chamomile or aloe vera (also avoid sun and apply plenty of sun block).


Myself, I apply a small amount of E45 facial cream at night around my eyebrows and nose then in the morning a day-cream containing aloe vera - does the trick for me!

Hope you have a lovely day!

Love love xxx