Isolaz update - 2nd Treatment

Hello my fellow slap addicts


Time for an acne update.

If you read my previous posts on Acne and Isolaz you will know that I've had my first treatment and it was a success.

I went to the clinic to have my second treatment. My previous nerves had subsided. I was actually looking forward to having the treatment.

Just like before the therapist cleansed my skin, applied glycolic acid, wiped it off and started the treatment.

This time she said she was going to do one suction followed by two zaps of the light.

It was HORRIBLE. I am so ashamed, but I chickened out. I couldn't cope with the stinging it caused. My skin felt more sensitive than the first treatment because of the skin care regime the clinic put me on.

I found that the SK:N products whilst effective, caused some dryness and a slight irritation around my eyes and nose.

When the glycol acid was administered this time I really felt it work. The double Zap was just too much.

Instantly the therapist changed the settings. She upped the light strength but reduced it to one zap.

This completely solved the sensitivity issue. Again, the therapist followed the Isolaz with facial extractions.

I had a few questions for her this time.

Why do you use a different suction tip for the forehead than for the rest of the face? It turns out that where the skin is usually tighter on the forehead and nose the larger tip doesn't create the vacuum it needs for it to work. Therefor, they swap to a smaller head to get a better suction.

Can this be used on darker skin tones? Yes. However darker skin tones will need to have a patch test where three pulses of light are administered to ensure no unwanted pigmentation occurs.

Can I use the Differin Gel prescribed by my doctor? No, not ideal when having Isolaz but after will be fine. It could cause excess drying and skin sensitivity.

What makeup can cause this congestion? MAC, it has a lot of talc in it. Noooooooooo. So many people use Mac products on their skin. Luckily I don't. But I do know Esteé Lauder double wear can cause congestion also. Part of the reason being it is so hard to completely remove.

Once the treatment was finished I took the plunge and looked at my skin. It wasn't as red as the time before and again it looked clearer instantly.

From the last treatment some typical spots had come up these were blasted and flattened by the Isolaz.

I went home with my sunglasses on. Didn't apply makeup or use any skin care products.
In the morning when I woke up I could see a vast improvement. I applied Urban Decay Naked foundation and it looked beautiful and radiant. I didn't need concealer and I certainly didn't need my double wear.

Could this be the end of what was a beautiful relationship? Will the love affair of the millennium be discarded for a new sleeker thinner version? I really think I will be leaving the Lauder behind and keeping the Urban Decay. Its lighter and I like how my newly improved skin shines through.


Updates will be coming up in the next few weeks.

Confessions... Nails

Confessions... 

Nails 

I love beautiful nails.

However it wasn't until recently that I decided to concentrate on the health of my nails.

I've always had nails that break and peel. My mother did not pass on her beautiful nails. This is not an exaggeration, the tips of her nails are white. Naturally! Seriously, her nails grow like a french manicure. It's something I noticed as a child. My mum hasn't ever been one for salon treatments or spending money on cosmetic things. At times as a child there wasn't always enough money for bills so manicures were done at home with a simple nail file and a wooden orange stick. 

My mother taught me that it didn't matter where you came from or where you were going one should have standards. With this, personal care and presentation were included behind good manners and kind nature.
So looking after nails became something we did at home. My mum and I would paint nails add a little sparkle and make the most of what we had. 

As I've grown and earned my own money I have splashed cash on acrylic talons to tap on my desk. But my naturally fragile nails became weaker and I took a break from the fake. 

When I was a teenager gel nails didn't exist in my small town. I feel so old! But it's true. Everything was about acrylic. Either tips or sculptured. A lot of the time the nails were really thick. There were plenty of salons using very poor quality products and even rumours of dental acrylic! I trained as a nail technician in 2008. Gels were being offered but the course was more concentrated on gel extensions than the polish types we use frequently today. I learnt silk and fibre glass techniques which I have never seen offered in a nail shop, and the ever popular acrylic extensions.

Now if you're a die hard nail extension user then good for you. I still have them from time to time when I feel like it. Just make sure you go somewhere that doesn't damage your natural nail. When I was trained I was told never to use an electric drill on someones natural nail as to do so is damaging. Over use of any abrasive tool certainly can bruise and thin the nail bed. So, if it hurts stop!
I can't tell you the times I've sat and said nothing whilst an electric drill has felt like it's burning.

Ive also noticed that in some budget beauty salons/spas if your having a "full set" or gel polish you do not get a proper manicure. This really gets my goat. Its really not hard to do a mini manicure before  a treatment but so many places don't. If they don't do any cuticle work or shape your natural nail. If they leave that hang nail hanging, LEAVE. Or complain. Your choice. I think beauty treatments should be an enhancement and maintaining your natural nails is part of that. 

There are so many wonderful colours/designs to choose from why not express yourself with your nails. I feel like nail art is a subtle way to try new trends. I'm not one for funky hair colours or daring cuts. I tend to keep my makeup simple for work so nail art is something I love to take chances with. 

As I said earlier I'm really into taking care of my nails now. Once a week I give myself a manicure and deep condition my hands by slathering on rich cream and wearing gloves when I go to bed. Many of us do the washing up and clean the house with out gloves. We are also using hand sanitisers more and more. All of these things can dry your skin out and you can get cracks and sores. I always apply a nail strengthening base coat and sometimes reapply throughout the week. 

There are so many lovely long lasting an colours that you can purchase and use without any abrasive preparation to your natural nail. I have just purchased Sally Hansen the diamond strength( review to come). Barry M nail polishes come in so many wonderful textures, glitters and colours all of which are available at high street beauty stores and online at low prices. 

If your feeling really creative get your self a dotting tool and a fine paint brush then the possibilities are endless. ( cheeky tutorial coming soon.)

Take  pride in your hands people do notice chipped polish. Especially if you have a job interview. Make sure your nails are neat and clean and appropriate for the job you are applying for. I wouldn't suggest red stiletto shape nails for a nursing interview. But you all have common sense, you know what I'm getting at. 

If you've had a bad salon experience or maybe you have a top tip please leave it in the comments below. 

I will be posting some nail art tutorials and a simple step by step guide on how to do a manicure at home. 

DIY... tinted brows

Tinted brows are a necessity for me.

I am a natural brunette with full natural brows. However, they look more mousey than deep chocolate like my locks. Without my eyebrows tinted I look like a thumb - bland. I'm not into making my brows bigger, changing the shape or colouring darker than my hair. But they do need to match my hair.

In the week I am all about minimal effort. The longer I get to lay in bed in the mornings, the better. Frankly leaving the house at 6:30 am KILLS ME. There is no way on Gods green earth I am getting up at 5:30 or even earlier to slap on a full face and curl my hair. I'm a shower and go kinda girl. Don't get it twisted, when it comes to drinks after work or the weekend I am dressed up like a drag queen. Every thing is ON. But, Monday to Friday I let my skin rest and keep my beating for the weekend.

As I am O'natural I need a way to look alive. Of course I always cleanse, tone, serum, moisturise and eye cream. I still look shit rather than chic. That's where mascara comes in. Ping! My eyes are awake. A little balm for my lips. But to frame my face its all about the brows.

More often than not I will go to my local salon and have them done. If  I don't have the time or the cash I do them at home.

Here is how:

Firstly prepare your brows in your chosen method. I tend to tweeze my eyebrows as waxing and threading always brings me out in a rash.

Then put Vaseline all around the skin surrounding the brows. The worst thing is to stain the skin and come out with slugs. Remember Charlie from Busted... Nuff said.

Get your eyebrow colouring kit. You can get these from Boots and Superdrug. They are not as strong as the ones in the salon but I would suggest getting your colour from a shop rather than some where like eBay. You never know quite what you are getting.

If you haven't used the product before I recommend doing a skin test behind the ear. Just put a little bit of the colour behind your ear the day before. If it becomes irritated don't put it on your brows.

Always, always read the instructions.

Once you have mixed your colour according to the manufacturers guidelines put the colour on to your brow. I like to use an angled eyeliner brush. I find that I get good control of colour placement. Some people use a wooden orange stick and some kits come with a little plastic paint brush. I prefer something firmer.

Leave it on for the designated length of time. You can remove a small amount of the colour to check its developing if you like.

I wouldn't go over the developing time that's recommended. Its highly unlikely that an extra 5 minutes will cause any harm. However, its better to be safe than sorry.

Once the time is up wipe away the colour with cotton pads and then cleanse your skin.

Your brows should be the colour you chose.

I will add when choosing a colour don't automatically go for black. Even if you're a brunette, black can look harsh and on more mature faces, ageing.

I go for a dark brown and find this works well. If in doubt go for the lighter shade unless you are looking at a bleaching kit.

Do not use any other type of colourant. Hair colour is not suitable and not designed to be so close to your eyes. It could cause irritation.

The kits you can buy in the shops are not the same as what you get in the salon. Sometimes the strengths they use in salons are stronger. They are not as strong to prevent accidents at home.

You will usually get several applications from one kit and at a cost of £7 you really do get more brow for your buck.

Give it a go and good luck!

Isolaz Review

Hello Slap Addicts


In my previous post I introduced you to acne and explained a little about my problems.

I have closed comedones predominantly on my cheeks. Whilst these are not painful and doing no harm to my skin they are damaging my self esteem.

Ive always had clear skin, I didn't even suffer as a teenager. I'm not saying that I never had a spot. Of course I did but it really was just the odd one.

Suddenly in my 20's I woke up with hundreds of little lumps on my skin.

At first I thought it may have been diet related. I cut out all dairy and gluten, even meat for a while. After several months passed and there was no improvement in my skin I decided to try topical acne treatments.

I tried acne face washes, face scrubs and creams. I tried squeezing them ... EPIC FAIL. Ugh it just made it worse and left me with bigger inflamed lumps and dark patches of skin.

After months of trying different lotions and potions and having regular facials at my local salon I became very depressed. I stopped wanting to socialise. I had stopped wearing makeup for fear of making things worse.

After many nights of research and self analysing my skin I decided that it was worth going to a skin specialist. I chose to go the the well know skin clinic Sk:n.

I booked a consultation with a nurse. It cost £25 and would be taken off any treatment I had in the future.

The clinic was in Victoria London. It was very clean and the staff were friendly and professional.

In the consultation the nurse asked me questions about my concerns and then had me lay down so she could evaluate my skin. Firstly she cleansed my skin to remove all make up.
After taking a good look she asked me to sit up and explained that I had an oily sin type and my thoughts were correct. I had comedones on my skin more likely because of congestion than hormonal or bacterial.

I was prescribed Isolaz treatment and a course of 6 is recommended.

Isolaz is an expensive treatment one is £150 and a course of 6 is about £600-£700.

I read up on the treatment and peoples reviews. From what I could gather it was good for comedones but not so great for nodule or cystic acne.

I put money aside, took the plunge and booked a 6 treatment course.

This is what the Isolaz website ( isolaz.com) says about its treatment:

The Isolaz Difference

Acne Hasn’t Changed, But How We Treat it Has

Through technological innovation, Isolaz therapy can effectively treat acne without lifestyle changes, oral prescriptions or a regimen of skincare products. Treatment takes place in a doctor’s office and is comfortable and reliable, giving you quick and long-lasting acne clearance. That’s the Isolaz difference.

Clinically Proven Acne Clearance

Clinical studies by leading dermatologists have proven the effectiveness of Isolaz to treat acne.
     •  Immediate results within 24–48 hours, including reduced redness, clearing of
         skin discoloration and immediate drying/ flattening of the blemish.1
     •  Significant decrease in number of acne lesions (spots, pimples, pustules) and
         a decrease in the amount of oil production.2

Successful on All Skin Types

Isolaz treatment targets deep into the pores and is FDA cleared for use on all skin types (light or dark). It is safe, reliable and effective as a standalone acne therapy or as a complementary treatment to other acne regimens (please consult your Isolaz treatment provider). Isolaz can even jump-start a topical treatment regimen by helping your skin absorb skincare products better.3

Successful on Non-Responders to Other Acne Treatments

Isolaz treatment has been proven to reduce lesions by over 75% within 2 months for patients who have not responded to antibiotics, topical products or lasers.2

Fast Treatments

Isolaz treatments often take only 15 to 30 minutes! You can jump back into your life immediately after treatment with little to no downtime.

Comfortable

In a published clinical study, 100% of patients noted Isolaz treatments were painless.2 

Isolaz claim its a quick treatment. I agree, my whole appointment time was 45 minutes. Firstly the therapist cleansed my skin. She then applied a glycolic acid lotion and left it for a moment or two. This was to disrupt the acid mantle and prepare the skin for the treatment. This felt a little tingly. Nothing uncomfortable. On an open lesion it did sting but nothing unbearable. Then she sprayed my face with water to cool it down.  I was so nervous! Then the treatment began. 

First the machine creates a vacuum. Not dissimilar to the sensation of sticking a hoover to your arm. It then stops and the light flashes. It is a quick burst of light and it can be warm. Its not hot nor does it burn, but a couple of areas it felt like being flicked with an elastic band. Again this is nothing I couldn't handle. This isn't like going for a spa facial. I wouldn't call it relaxing but at the same time I wouldn't say it was uncomfortable. Periodically the therapist sprayed my face with water to cool it down. Once the light treatment was completed she performed extractions. YES this is EWWWW, YUCKY and DISGUSTING. But necessary. This was probably the most uncomfortable part of the treatment. Once this was completed she cleansed my skin and applied a moisturiser with SPF. Isolaz can make your skin light sensitive so SPF is important.

Here is a picture of my face the day before treatment and the day after.

I am over the moon with the results. This is my first treatment and already a significant change has occurred.

I was warned that sometimes some spots can be pulled to the surface. I have been lucky. No new spots appeared and my skin continued to smooth out over the following days.

I have booked a treatment every week or the next 5 weeks. A part of me thinks I may not need to use all 6 treatments in one course.

It was advised that future treatments may be necessary to maintain the skin but I shall face that bridge when I come to it.

Sk:n gave me a skin care regime to follow every morning and night. It consists of a cleanser, serum moisturiser in the morning as well as an SPF. In the evening its the same routine but I skip the SPF and add in a pore refiner.

I have to admit the products are nicer than I thought they would be. You can apply makeup over them, however don't apply too much foundation because it can crack and split.

Overall Sk:n have been amazing. The nurse Sarah completely put me at ease and did a wonderful job on my skin. All the staff put me at ease and didn't flinch when I arrived back at reception post treatment very red and blotchy.

I can't wait for my next treatment and fingers crossed things keep improving the way they have from this first treatment.

Confessions of ... ACNE

Acne. 

Quite frankly needs to be redefined as a swear word along with fat and ironing. 
I hate acne. It's a fact. I damn well hate it. 

What purpose does it serve other than ruin the self confidence of an already self conscious nation? 

In this new world of social media I feel under the microscope. I keep my Facebook, Twitter and Instagram on private settings and keep it for people I actually know. However, I still feel pressured to portray a perfect self image. 

I'm not perfect. NEWS FLASH - No one is.

But, people really do appear it online. As a teenager in the 00's I remember people blaming magazines for unattainable beauty. People were outraged at the airbrushing of celebrities. Now everyone can slap on a filter and smooth their skin. 
This is not reserved for the A-Listers anymore. What's more damaging? Thinking a small percentage of self acclaimed stars are perfect or thinking every Tom, Dick and Harry has a six pack, great hair and flawless skin?

I'm not so fussed about amazingly styled hair. I'm known as pineapple head. I wear my hair up every day in one of those messy buns. I did it before it became a trend and I will continue it for years to come. 

6- pack? Ha. My sister has the body of a sculpted Greek god. She looks awesome. But she is not lazy, she works hard. I am lazy. I like long walks but you won't see me run. I'll carry shopping but not weights. So, as much as I am slim I'm not trim and I'm OK with that. 

Skin on the other hand I do care about. Ever since I can remember I've been obsessed with good skin and good teeth. If I'm checking a guy out it's not for his body, it's his teeth. If he has great skin then I'm in heaven. 
Because these are qualities I look for in other people it's what becomes important for me. Side note, my boyfriend has amazing skin and perfect teeth, so I've stopped looking lol. 
Sadly I turned 25 and Mother Nature flipped me the bird and slapped me with the acne stick. What a bitch. 

I've got a very good very regular routine. I posted about it in my Skin secrets blog. However, I've got closed comodones on my jaw line and cheeks. My skin problems are caused by a build up of sebum under the skin. Luckily its not bacterial nor is it hormonal. 

Acne is not just large red pustules on the skin, or those big hard lumps under it. 
There are so many forms and they all need treating differently. All types can be debilitating for those suffering. 

Personally I've cried over my skin. Yes I am aware that it sounds ridiculous. But the blemishes make me feel embarrassed. Sadly foundation only highlights the issue. Also some of the treatments I've tried have left my skin burning and raw as if I'd been scolded with hot water. 

So many acne treatments are excessively drying and harsh on the skin. For instance, foaming cleansers predominantly advertised for acne prone skin disrupt the acid mantle turning the skin more alkaline. When the skin is a more alkaline PH it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. Bacteria = spots. 

Let's talk about acne 

Adult acne is caused by excess oil production which clogs the pores and causes a reaction in the skin. It can also be caused by an increase of testosterone. Some acne is caused by bacteria on our phones or in our makeup brushes. It can even be caused by tight fitting hats. Acne normally appears during puberty in our teenage years and then decreases over time, but this is not always the case. It can rear its ugly head in adulthood. Lots of adults are also left with acne scars even when the condition has improved. My fear is leaving my current condition and the scaring becoming permanent. I've got some dark marks but no pitting of the skin. 

A comedo is a basic acne lesion. A closed comedo is a white head and an open comedo is a black head. The plural of comedo is comedones. Comedones occur when a hair follicle in the skin becomes clogged with oil and dead skin cells. When the comedo is under the skin its a white head. When the follicle is open and the oil reacts with oxygen it becomes dark and that's a blackhead. Many over the counter products claim to provide relief from these. 

Papule's are comedones that become inflamed. They look like small red bumps on the skin and may be sensitive to touch. Picking at these can make them worse and more inflamed. Squeezing these can lead to scarring. 

Pustules are another type of inflamed comedones. They are what you would normally think a white head is. If you imagine what a spot looks like this is a pustule. A lump on the skin with a white or yellow head and a red edge around it. 

Nodules are large deep under the skin lumps. Nodules can be painful and should be treated by a dermatologist. These are not pickable. Over the counter treatments probably ( in my opinion definitely) won't work. Prescription drugs can be effective. But remember treatment takes time to start working, anything from 3-6 months. 

Cysts are large pus filled lumps that like nodules can be painful. They can cause deep scarring and are considered a severe form of acne. Again, treating this acne is more difficult that simple comedones but it is possible. There are plenty of success stories, but an over night fix? Don't be fooled. 

If you're suffering with acne go to your doctor. Granted not all GP's are great when it comes to skin but its a good place to start. If not, they can refer you to a dermatologist or point you in the right direction of a good private practitioner. 

Acne is known as a disease. Its not curable but it is treatable. If you are suffering ...You really don't need to! 

I have had closed comedones all over my cheeks for almost 18 months. I tried changing my diet eating "clean" no relief. There is no proven link between diet and acne. If you eat greasy food or chocolate it doesn't mean you will get acne, likewise acne is not caused by dirty skin. However, over washing can cause irritation and make it worse. 

The do's and don'ts are endless. The truth is your acne is as individual as you are. What works for one person may not work for another. 

A good consistent skin care regime is paramount. Keep phone, pillow cases and makeup brushes as clean as possible. 

I decided that after trying what felt like every option in the pharmacy that I would have Isolaz treatment. Its a vacuum laser treatment that brings the sebum to the surface and kills bacteria deep within the skin by the light of the laser. The therapist will then extract the sebum that has been pulled to the surface. 

My next post will be a detailed account of my first treatment. 

Stay tuned for updates. 

QUICK TIP

QUICK TIP... Panda Eyes 

Mascara smudging under your eyes? 

I couldn't believe it, I finally got my foundation and concealer how I wanted it and my favourite mascara kept smudging underneath and creating the dreaded - PANDA EYE. 

Not cute. 

Instead of changing the concealer which was so hard to get right. I've just swapped to a waterproof mascara and hey presto no more panda eyes. 

Simple! 

I like Bourjois mascaras  but if you find a fave mascara just see if they do it in a waterproof version. 

EXTRA 

Always make sure you've given any creams or makeup time to sink into the skin before you apply mascara. 

Apply powder under your eyes to set concealer.

Find a tubing mascara and look for silicone based products. 

Use a little eyeshadow primer like the ones from URBAN DECAY around the lower lash line. Just remember a little goes a long way. 

Why not give the waterproof a go and let me know what you think. Its been the simplest solution for me so far. 

Confessions ... of a Shampoo Princess

Confessions…

Of a Shampoo Princess addicted to REDKEN

I can't express the importance of finding the right shampoo and conditioner for your hair. 

Think about it like this. If you're using incorrect skin products you skin can become dry, irritated, oily and even break out. Most of us will turn to the makeup bag and try to cover up the problem.  We will then look to find an alternative skin product that doesn't cause the issue. Now I'm not saying that the wrong skin care causes all problems. Medication, hormones, stress, diet, weather, pollution and many, many more things cause skin changes. But certainly what you put directly onto it can make a big difference. 

It's exactly the same with your hair and up until recently I didn't think so much about how the first thing I put on my hair could influence how the rest of the products worked and the final condition of my hair. 

I wore extensions for years. Various types and lengths. And due to over use its caused some breakage...understatement - ok my hair is cream crackered.  However I've curbed my addiction and haven't worn them for what seems like a full year. 

Since then I feel like I have tried every restoring serum, every Argon/Moroccan oil. I have stopped heat styling my hair. I've worn different clips and bobbles to prevent further damage. I've even stopped colouring my hair! Like seriously, I don't even have layers just a one length trim. But I still found my hair more brillo pad and less silky smooth as I believe I deserved. I even tried salon treatments such as keratin treatments and hair masks. After having said treatments my hair feels good for a period of time and then goes back to the rough wiry mess I'm used to. 

The other day I was walking through my local shopping centre and I saw a salon. I noticed shelves full of hair care systems from Redken, Paul Mitchell, Bed head and many more. Luckily within a few minutes a stylist asked if she could help. In sheer desperation I exhaled and explained the situation. She asked me to take my hair down and she looked at my hair. Most importantly this lady listened. She also has fine hair herself . However, hers was in lovely condition and looked healthy and shiny. She talked me through a system which she tailored to my needs. She predominantly chose Redken products. I was prescribed a shampoo, a conditioner, a hair mask, a conditioning spray and an oil. 

The shampoo : Redken all soft shampoo for dry brittle hair. You can purchase from £9-£14 for  300ml. I use a very small amount of this shampoo. I only use it once and I do not repeat. I try to wash my hair no more than 3 times/week. 

The conditioner : Redken all soft conditioner 250ml from £9-£14. I use this twice a week after shampooing my hair. The other time I wash my hair I use a treatment mask. I only use a very small amount and instantly my hair is smooth in the shower. Usually my hair is like wire after shampoo and the conditioner makes it a little less matted. But after shampoo my hair feels clean and soft, once the conditioners on the texture of my hair is like nothing I can remember. 

The hair mask : Redken Frizz Dismiss mask 250 ml £22. Intensive mask which you use once to twice a week after shampoo. I was told to leave on my scalp for as long as I can put up with it. I leave it on from 20 mins up to 2 hours depending on my schedule. I do this at least once a week. 

The spray: Redken Frizz Dismiss F20 light weight smoothing lotion £16.50. Use on towel dried hair and then style as usual. I use this every time I wash my hair. It is very light weight. Having extremely fine hair anything too heavy weighs it down and makes it look flat and lifeless. This product is great for all hair types. 

The oil : Wella professionals oil reflections antioxidant smoothing oil 100ml £15.

I use this after the spray when my hair is wet before I leave to dry or blow-dry. I also use it on the hair once dry as a smoothing oil. I will say my hair does need a good cut. If I didn’t need a trim I may not use the oil before I blow-dry, just afterwards. 

The stylist explained that what I first put on my hair is the foundation for the rest of the products. It turns out I was using way too much product and a shampoo that was too harsh and drying. When I thought about it it made sense. If I stripped the life out of my locks then of course everything else after was having to work extra hard. 

I used the products and voila, as if by magic my hair was how it was 10 years ago prior to colour and extension damage

I am finally able to wear my hair down without feeling conscious. I even wore my hair straight which is something I haven't been able to do because it highlighted it's poor condition. 

Like a lot of women I've got hair goals: 

1 Condition 

2 Length 

3 Thickness 

4 Colour 

100% in that order. My hair needs to be in good condition so that it looks good with length. Also, the better condition it's in the thicker it will look ( No scraggy ends!) 

Once I've achieved that I can think about colouring it again. 

I read that on average hair grows 6 inches a year.  

I've decided to give my hair a very small trim - no layers or bangs and then wait till Christmas to cut it again. 

In the mean time I will follow my prescription from the stylist. 

Keep heat styling to Max 3 times per month and avoid colouring. 

I'm hoping in a years time to have the hair I used to have. I also hope I've learnt my lesson by then on abusing my hair and the unhealthy addiction of extensions. Truth is everything can be done in moderation. Hair extensions, heat styling and colouring are all possible if you look after your hair and don't go cray cray. 

I advise anyone struggling with their hair to find a stylist and get them to help you find the right products. 

We've all been there stood in a shop like boots picking up brightly packaged bottles promising silky, sexy, shiny hair. Thing is there are so many to choose from and no one to help. Yes you can go online and read reviews but how do they relate to you and your hair? 

Its free to talk to someone and the guys and girls will be happy to sell you the right products. 

Im not saying that we all need to spend a fortune on hair products but its good to remember that foundations are everything. Nor should everyone should go out and buy what I use either. Just go and get your hair assessed and take advice from a trusted professional. Go on... GET THE RIGHT SHAMPOO!

Oh and a side note - Shampoo princess is what my boyfriend calls his little poodle when she comes back from the groomers all fluffy and cute. 

Finally I feel as pretty as she looks. 

Confessions... of false eyelashes

I'm not sure what happened but as I have got older those luscious lashes that I had as a child have regressed into these short, sparse sprouts. 

Ok they are not that bad, and I guess I do know what's happened.

Some of you may, but some of you may not know that I am indeed a self confessed... Slap addict! 

And I have nooooo intention of kicking my glamorous habit- even though at times my quest for beauty has left me looking more like a beast. 

Eye lashes are oh so now! There are so many celebrities selling their own lines from Girls allowed, to Katie Perry, Made in Chelsea to TOWIE. Even beauty bloggers like Huda have their own lashes. All of these brands are supporting my habit. 

There are many ways of enhancing your eyelashes. Tinting, curling, perming. Mascaras in every shade with brushes big enough to clean your loo with! Then there are falsies. Strips, clusters, individuals, semi permanent. The good, the bad and the ugly. I have tried them all. 

I love a strip lash! I like them in the day if I want to feel "pretty" and I love them on a night out to complete my "look." 

Thick and full or short and natural if well applied and event appropriate I think they can look great. 

My advice is if you are wearing lashes for work or in the day- choose something more natural. Not too long or thick. Make sure you do trim the lashes to size. One size does not fit all and different brands make a huge difference to the fitting. Make sure you check the size before you apply the adhesive. My favourite strip lash is Ardelle wispies or demi-wispies.

When applying the adhesive please wait a few moments for the glue to become tacky. It honestly makes the application so much easier. If you want to use tweezers to apply the lashes you can buy the special eyelash ones or I like to use pointed ended tweezers. I got mine from Primark for £1. You really don't need to spend a fortune. I think practise makes perfect when it comes to lashes. Try several styles until you find ones that suit you. 

Personally I think a more natural look is best. I apply mine and then blend the lashes with my own with a coat of my favourite mascara. Eyeliner on the top of your lid can hide the line and make the strips less noticeable. 

Another option is to use the cluster lashes. You can purchase these from most drug stores. They look like three lashes ( imagine a birds foot) with a small bulb at the top. You put the glue on the bulb and place it close to the lash line. These last a day maybe a few depending on how you look after them. I think these are slightly harder to apply but can look really lovely. They can come in different colours and lengths too. Try shorter lengths in the inner corner of your eye, and work up the sizes as you reach the outer corner. 

Last but not least are the individual lashes that a professional beautician can place. 

I've had these on several occasions. Whilst they look lovely and in my experience the most natural, they have always damaged my own eyelashes. The other downside is the cost. They can be very expensive to have placed and then you need regular maintenance appointments that can be costly too.

If I have a big event, a wedding or maybe my birthday I would have the individual lashes but I would have them taken off sooner rather than later. 

I have finally recovered from some bad breakage. I had lovely individual lashes placed but sadly woke up one morning with all my lashes on my pillow. The extensions all broke off and left all my lashes broken very close to the root. In this particular instance the lashes were too long and too thick for my natural lash and the weight of them caused the natural lash to snap. I could tell this is what happened by the fact that every lash broke at the same point. 

I'm not saying individuals will damage your lashes but from my own experience I know they can.  It's the same for the adhesive for strips. If you put on too much glue and a lot sticks to your own lashes you could damage a few as you remove the glue. 

Try to look after your own lashes as much as possible. Use a gentle eye makeup remover every day to remove all traces of makeup. Be gentle if you curl your lashes ensuring you don't break them as you bend. Always use a clean eyelash curler and never curl lashes after mascara. 

I've heard and seen amazing results from a product called Revitalash. It is a serum that you put on your lashes every night before bed after you have completed your cleansing routine. I am yet to try this product. However, it is in my Amazon shopping cart so once I've purchased it and used for 1 month I shall report back with my findings. 

Freederm Gel

This blog is all about Freederm gel. I'm sure you've seen it in chemists and on the TV. The adverts are quite catchy.


Freederm Treatment Gel is an anti-inflammatory spot treatment. Freederm states that the active ingredient nicotinamide has been clinically proven to help get rid of inflamed spots.

Freederm gel is not going to do much for your cystic acne, nor will it clear out blackheads. What it is good for is reducing those red, inflamed, tender, pustules on your face. Gross right. It happens to the best of us. Lets face it, no one likes getting spots and we all want fast results.

Now, there is no quick fix for acne but this product has definitely helped reduce the appearance and the pain of  my angry spots.

How to use...
Remove all makeup and wash your face. Gently pat your skin dry with a clean towel. Wash your hands thoroughly, then apply a thin layer of the gel to the affected areas. I actually put this all over my face. Freederm suggests using the product twice a day. However, it does stipulate in the leaflet provided to use once a day or every other day if irritation or flaking of the skin occurs.

Freederm suggest applying a THIN layer. I am a little liberal with this product and it does create a film over my skin. This doesn't bother me because for me, seeing is believing. I like to see this on my skin so I believe its working. There is no doubt about it, this can cause some peeling and flaking of the skin. Especially over the top of spots. Also, if you have any open spots this can sting a little. Its not something that puts me off as the sensation only lasts a few seconds whilst the gel dries.

Personally I only use this product at night. I have used it in the day when I am not wearing makeup. This is not good under foundation. I'm serious, do not try to put concealer or any cosmetics over the top of this. You will look like a zombie who's skin is peeling off.

I have read some very mixed reviews on freedom gel. Some people really swear by this and some people hate it. I think you have to remember what this is good for. As said above this is a spot solution. Anything under the skin will probably not be affected by the product. I have not tried the washes because I have a regime that I am trying to stick to at the moment.

I think this product works.
Its definitely something I keep in my wash bag and a small tube is about £4 so its not an expensive product to have on stand by.

Would I give up on my acid toners and cleansing routine? No.
Would I say this is a miracle cure for acne? No such thing.

But I'm telling you its a damn sight better than slapping toothpaste on your skin.

Confessions... battle of the blenders

 






Beauty Blender 
versus 
Real Techniques.

Oh my fellow slap addicts I want to say I prefer the real techniques ... But I don't 

These egg shaped make up sponges are here to replace the more traditional foundation brushes. Offering a flawless makeup application with minimal skill, you'd be mad not to try. Simply rinse your sponge under running water, squeeze out the excess and use to apply your foundation.

These little damp eggs are a complete game changer compared to a traditional flat foundation brush.

I was completely in love with my flat brush for years. I mean years and years maybe 8? Eek! I moved on to a buffing/stippling brush a few years ago but now I have to say it's all about these magic sponges.

With a flat brush I definitely used more product. I had a heavier look to my makeup and at times it could leave brush marks, so I would use my fingers after to blend. I used to put the foundation on the back of my hand and dip the brush in to apply. Anyone who has used Estée Lauder double wear knows the pain of the stain! If you leave the residual foundation on the back of your hand it is stuck like glue to you. If you're anything like me, you forget it's there until you get to work. You then desperately try to scrub it off in the loo before anyone notices.

Both sponges are great for building foundation. I love how easy that is.
Double wear is my go to base. I've used it since 2008 and no matter what I try I always have a bottle or two (or 5) in my kit. The sponges have completely changed the look of this foundation. I never look cakey and I don't get that mask line around my face, it's also nicer for blending into the hair line. I feel like these sponges make anyone a makeup artist.

In my humble opinion a flawless base is everything. If your foundation is the wrong shade, cakey or you get that line around your face it can completely distract from that winged eyeliner you perfected, or that sexy shade of red you finally found. It's the base for everything. It's what keeps the whole look together.

Here are my personal thoughts on how these two compare:

The real techniques (RT) is by far the more affordable option. However I have a few criticisms when compared to the Beauty Blender (BB).  I like that the RT has the flat edge, but the point is not as small and I like that for around my eyes. The RT texture is just not the same as the BB. The RT seems to absorb more product causing product wastage and build up inside the sponge. 
Product wastage = Pennies wasted 
I'm all for making things last longer and saving money where I can. However, the BB is £16 in the UK that's £10 more than the RT which retails for £6. I'm not sure how much product is wasted or if it would equate to the price difference in the sponges over a period of time. You can decide that for yourself. Personally I think the one off £10 extra paid is probably less that what I would waste using the RT over time. 

In my opinion the RT application is not as smooth as the BB as the sponge is more open textured. Because of its close texture the BB gives a more air brushed effect.
I feel like I have to press the RT harder on my face to deposit product because the makeup sucks in to the sponge. I mean it's all marginal differences. I'm not saying I have to literally pummel my face to apply my foundation. But, this is a nit picky review as both products are fantastic.

Another plus for the BB is I think the sponge stains less and it doesn't drag the skin at all. 
Overall both sponges help you to apply foundation flawlessly. The beauty blender does give an even smother finish and you will have minimal product wastage but it will cost you initially. 

If you don't want to spend £16 for a sponge... DON'T! The real techniques is a really great product BUT the beauty blender is just that little bit better. 


I'm now using the BB for foundation and the RT for cream contour and bronzer.

So Slap addicts that's my verdict on the BB versus the RT.

Let me know your experiences and if there is anything you want me to try.