The Answer to My Sore Skin Woes, with Origins.

For the last three months...and ten year, I have been battling with Acne.  Over the years it has come and gone but the last year has seen a resurgence, that at times I just do not have the energy to battle.  I had almost thrown the towel in, and accepted that I will always have 'ahem' crap skin.  

I have been on anti-biotics for nearly three months, they have cleared up the particularly spotty area that I had on my chin, but I now have spots on my cheeks - an area which I have never been prone to spots. I can't say if they have done the job or not, they have helped a little but the results are not what I expected from being medicated for three months.  The only thing left on the Doctors list is Roaccutane - a very powerful acne medication with notorious side-effects, I have been avoiding it since I were twelve.  Part of me wishes I had taken Roaccutane when I was younger, as now I am simply too scared.  I don't have time for more side-effects, my under-active thyroid gives me enough of them to keep me occupied.

However, I may have found something that works for me.  Last week I was offered a facial from the ever glamorous Jen who works over at the Origins counter, next to me in work.  She had to practice for her test the next day and I got to get pampered on my lunch break - certainly a perk of working in the beauty department.  

My lunch break has never felt the same since.  A bland salad cannot compete with laying under a blanket, and having wonderful potions soothingly put on your face.  Jen done a fabulous job, my skin felt - I want to say how skin should feel. My skin felt like skin again, and not that achy dry pallet I apply make-up to. 

Before the facial I was consulted about my skin, so that the appropriate products which could benefit me were used.  This would be very beneficial for anyone who is unsure of their skin type, or does not where to start with a healthy skin care regime.

My current skin care regime revolves around whatever products I fancy using on that given day, mainly products from Lush.  I do love Lush skincare and other great brands, and I'm not saying anything negative in regards to them, but nothing has worked with such pace and effectiveness for my skin as the Mega Mushroom Collection by Dr Andrew Weils for Origins. 

At the time of my facial I had big red blotches (spots) on both my cheeks - they were inflamed and sore. Jen (being the star that she is) took note of my current problem and tailored my facial around Dr Weils which helps irritated skin.

The product that has wowed me the most is the Mega-mushroom Skin Relief Face Mask (when I heard mega-mushroom I made a bit of a face also).  I always take skin care with a pinch of salt, as I have learnt not to expect miracles when it comes to my skin, but I noticed a change in my skin within the first use.  Those red blotches shrunk and the redness was reduced.  After further usage they are almost gone.

Clinically proven to visibly reduce redness.After one use:
√ 92% of those tested agreed it helps uncomfortable, dry skin feel better. 

It is expensive though, coming in at £34.00.  Usually I wouldn't spend that much on a face-mask because I can't really afford to spend that much on one product but I whole heartedly recommend anyone with acne or blemishes to try this.

In the next couple of weeks I will be reviewing the Dr Weil's collection more in depth, as it really deserves a post all of it's own.

Origins at the moment are offering complimentary facials and I highly recommend all you beauty bloggers out there take advantage of it, because you could learn a lot about your skin type and your skin will feel gorgeous afterwards. If you are from Glasgow come to John Lewis, the Origins girls are all really nice - and then you can come chat to me afterwards, maybe buy some sunglasses 'wink'. 

My new found love of Bobbi Brown is Pretty Powerful.

I currently work in John Lewis (Glasgow) in the beauty department, but sadly not on a beauty concession.  I flog sunglasses, which most days is a challenge considering the Scottish weather, but we are faring not too badly.  However, the lust I feel on a daily basis is even more of a challenge.  My sun-glass stands are directly in front of Clarins and Estee Lauder, a few steps away from Origins and the Bobbi Brown counter is in my direct eye-line. It's a hard life. 

I could easily spend a small fortune in the beauty department of John Lewis, a couple of hundred pounds could be gone in the space of an hour,  trying to not succumb to my desires is soul destroying.  Well, soul destroying might be a little dramatic but it is gloomy. So is talking to nearly all your customers about where they are going on holiday. 'So, are you going somewhere nice on holiday?'.  Oh, the smiles. 

The other week though, I was heading out for a friends birthday straight from work, and the lovely Emma at Bobbi Brown said she would do my make-up for me - saving me an epic battle with my eye-liner brush whilst on the bus.  I am sometimes wary of make-up artists because people all have different opinions about what looks good. However, Emma has a complexion like a porcelain doll and looks a bit like Bettie Page - that I can trust. 

Make-up by Bobbi Brown (Lipstick is Models Own).

Make-up By Me.

I have never seen my skin look so radiant, every time I look at this photo I am wowed by it.  Keep in mind I have rather bad/blemish stained skin. Look at the glow! I would usually frown at the use of an exclamation mark (it can be tacky) but this occasion calls for it. I love being pale, but I can't deny that I am occasionally what one would call pasty rather than porcelain.  Having pale skin I find it is much harder to get that beautiful glow than those who have darker tones. Bronzer is an easy way to achieve a healthy glow, but it's not my style.  The Brightening Finish Powder in Porcelain Pearl is a must have for pale girls. It was on my last wish list, and I will be buying it next pay day. And maybe a powder brush...

This all-over powder instantly illuminates and gives skin a healthy-looking glow. It's infused with a skin-brightening blend of Mulberry, Grape and Scutellaria extracts, as well as Sodium Hyaluronate (beloved for its moisture magnet-like effect) to help keep skin fresh and smooth looking.

But my favourite thing is my eyebrows - Emma transformed my brows into amazing brows.  Anyone who knows me in real life will know of the eternal fight I've had over the years with my eyebrows - I have had a fair amount of mishaps, I can't even bring myself to find photo's. Having pretty eyebrows made me happy, I went around asking everyone if they liked my eyebrows (I'm currently using a furry leopard print bag as my work bag, they already know I'm a bit mad).  This mini transformation really highlighted to me the importance of having well shaped eyebrows, it really does change the whole shape of your face.  Fixing my eyebrows is on my 'to do list for this year' - maybe by the end of the year I will be able to make my own eyebrows that fabulous. 

The current Bobbi Brown Campaign is: BE PRETTY. BE CONFIDENT. BE WHO YOU ARE

I love this, having wrote my dissertation on the sexualisation of children and of having a deep understanding of how the media can mould people into being a certain way, this is a very powerful message. Yes, we all adore make-up, most of us wouldn't be without it (I for one won't leave the house without at least foundation on) but you still need to have confidence within yourself, about who you are and what you are all about. 

Bobbi believes that "makeup is a way for a woman to look and feel like herself, only prettier and more confident."

I really urge everyone to go read up on Bobbi Brown, as a company they are wonderful.  Their whole philosophy is inspiring, especially for a beauty brand.   Obviously, I also urge you to go try some Bobbi Brown products for yourself, and then tell me about how wonderful they are.

PRODUCTS USED:

Hydrating Eye Cream.

Foundation: Porcelain Stick.

Concealer: Eye Brightener: Light Brick.

Brows: Saddle.

Eyeshadow: Galaxy Cream Shadow (lower lid). Crease: Gunmetal.

Eyeliner: Black Gel Ink.

Brightening Finishing Powder: Porcelain Pearl.

Much Love,

INAA Scottish Hair & Beauty Awards (Exclusive Event).

Hello lovelies,

So, who is all going to the Scottish Hair and Beauty event on the 29th of April, and more importantly what are you going to wear?  I am unsure at the moment about what to wear, is it smart casual or black-tie? Flats or heels, that is the question. I've found a beautiful pair of Kurt Geiger boots, but I can't find them in my size (sad face).  I did find them in the brown, but then I think I would prefer the black. However, someone did point out the brown would be better for summer - gah!

What do you think?  I can't wait to meet some of you there.  This is my first blogger event, since I couldn't attend the Christmas party or the Zen event due to work.  I'm rather excited, but nervous at the same time.

Much love,

Victoria.

xx

The 90's Called and They Want Their Skirt Back.

You will either love this skirt or you'll think it's horrendous, and that I am a bit of a nutter for buying it.  If I am being honest I felt slightly nutty buying it, more so since I ran down before work to make sure I managed to get it in my size.

Miss Selfridge - £22.

I was first introduced to the Barbie range at Miss Selfridge  through one of my favourite blogs: The Shoe Girl Diaries.  This girl has fabulous taste in shoes and fashion.  Ugh, so many beautiful and unusual shoes.  Every time I look at her blog I want to go raid her wardrobe, and then feel sad that I don't rock a style that cool. Maybe one day.

Miss Selfridge have had a great range of Barbie T-shirts, Leggings and tube dresses for a while, however with me being 4ft 11'' I didn't feel I could pull off heavily patterned leggings and the dress would have been very unflattering.  But, at last they brought out a Barbie print skirt.

I love that the comic/pop art print looks set to be one of this seasons looks, it has always been one of my favourite prints.  Even if it is a very hard print to pull off.  This is where I need help - what the hell do I wear with that skirt and who want's to come to a gay bar with me? Nah, I joke. Although I am sure that a gay bar is the venue the skirt would be most appreciated in.  As my boyfriends face was one of utter horror when I pulled the skirt out the bag.

What is the most outrageous piece of clothing you have in your wardrobe?

A Juicy Wish List.

So, I am back working in John Lewis, in the beauty department to be precise.  Torture. Well, torture for my bank account.  I could spend a small fortune at all the beauty counters, and then over at the general toiletries section.  Sadly, I can't afford to buy lots of pretty things though but I thought I would share the things I am lusting after from John Lewis.


Clinique 
Anti-Blemish 3-step Program. 
Anti-blemish Solution Cleansing Foam: £14.50
Anti-blemish Clarifying Solution: £17.00
Anti-blemish Moisturiser: £18.50

I got a couple of samples from Clinique the other day (which I will review at a later date) but in the short couple of days that I have used the sample's I have fell in love with them.  I was advised to try the anti-blemish 3-step program for my bad skin, but they also reminded me that my antibiotics are the only thing that will truly sort the problem.  The products should make my skin look better though in partner with the antibiotics.  I haven't tried the cleansing foam, because I was given a sample of the cleansing bar.  The cleansing bar is good but I prefer Fresh Pharmacy from Lush. I think the cleansing foam would be more suited to my skin.  The solution and the moisturiser are fantastic though.  I will need to buy the full-size products when my samples are finished.

Philosophy 
Cinammon Bun Lip Shine: £10.00

Like all Philosophy products this smells amazing.  It is quite sticky but the smell makes you forget this.

Bobbi Brown

Shimmer Brick Compact (Rose): £32.00

A girl I used to work with wore this and it made her skin look fabulous.  I've never used a shimmer brick and it something I fancy trying this year, as an alternative to blusher and powder.  Anyone know of any cheaper dupes? 

Brightening Finishing Powder (Porcelain Pearl) - £40.00

The gorgeous Emma at Bobbi Brown (John Lewis Glasgow) done my makeup for me on Saturday since I was dashing out after work, and this was one of the products she used.  At first I was like 'what is that?' due to the bright colours, however it goes on translucent.  I am a big fan of powder, I always wear it on top of my foundation but I do find it quite irritating at times.  This felt so soft on my skin and it really brightened my whole face up.  The next time there is a price match I will be hoping to get my mittens on this.

In fact who am I kidding I want all the Bobbi Brown products, including the eyeliner and eyebrow powder. Anyone got some Bobbi reviews? Link me up.

Origins: Never a Dull Moment Face Scrub: £24.00

Since I read the review of this on Tattooed Tealady I have been lusting after it. I am going to see if I can get a wee sample of this next week. Also hoping to squeeze in a complimentary facial.

What are you lusting after at the moment?

Cats the Musical

This post is fantastically late, but I started my new job the week after the show and since then my head has been a bit mush with sunglasses chat.

For Valentines day my manfriend took me to see Cats The Musical at Edinburgh Playhouse. Cats been my favourite musical for years, my Dad bought me the video one Christmas and I have adored it since. Despite being a dog person, but I think if you are an animal lover in general you will love this.  I'm not sure if non animal lovers would 'get' the musical in quite the same way.  Obviously, the musical has political undertones and a deeper story runs through it more than simply cuddly tabby cats, but it also emphasises the respect animals deserve as individuals.

This was the first time I had ever seen the production live, since I missed it the last time it came to Glasgow due to having no one to go with and then shortly after it was cut from the west-end.  I have probably been waiting around ten years to see the show live, that is almost half my lifetime.  My manfriends Mum has actually seen the original production which fills me with great envy, Rum Tum Tugger was originally played by the actor that plays Christian in Eastenders - there's a wee fact for you. That is obviously not why I'm envious but, you know.

Christian as a Cat

The production at Edinburgh Playhouse, however, was wonderful, even minus Christian from Eastenders. But, anyone who says they don't fancy Rum Tum Tuggers wee toosh is a liar. Yes, I fancy a man dressed as a cat - and what?  He's a damn sexy cat.

The singing and dancing was to the highest of standards as expected, and I was left feeling very un-flexible. The things those ballet dancers can do with their legs is amazing, I struggled to walk back to the hotel in my wedges without falling on my arse - graceful as ever.

Sadly I couldn't take any photo's during the show due to the rules in place, but aesthetically the show is beautiful to watch.  If you haven't seen it you should grab a copy on DVD.  Matt, wasn't terribly excited about watching a bunch of people dressed up as cats singing and dancing - I even had to lie and tell him that there was some dialogue, and it was not all singing. But he fairly enjoyed it - if my rugby playing manfriend can enjoy it so can you.

If you are a die-hard fan like me you should read TS Elliott's Book of Practical Cats which is the poetry book which the musical is based upon.  It is such a delightful little book, the kind of book you can imagine reading to your future kids, or kittens.

Why you should invest in luxury sunglasses & a wish list.

I have never been someone who lusted over sunglasses, I'm much more of a handbags and shoes kind of girl.  Many friends of mine would cut off a hand for a pair of Ray-bans, but I've always been more drawn towards a £2.00 pair from Primark, that can then be thrown to the bottom of my handbag. Or used to keep my hair off my face whilst I apply my factor 50.

£2.00 Primark Numbers

However recently I started a new job working for Luxottica the company that own Ray-Ban and Oakley.  I am situated in John lewis (Glasgow) as a concession, which has caused much confusion so far - trying to explain to customers, without sounding rude, that I don't work for John Lewis. If you're from Glasgow you should pop in, we don't have all stock out at the moment due to issues with the glass display cabinet we were sent - it has no shelves...yeah.  But, if you ask nicely I'll get the Prada and Tom Ford out the drawer. It is also cool that you laugh at my irony of having to sell sunglasses whilst it is snowing outside. My fingers are crossed for sunny weather soon, or at least no snow.

One of the first questions I asked when starting the job was 'What is the difference between cheap and expensive sunglasses?'.  I wasn't quite sure how I was going to convince someone to spend £80> on a pair of sunglasses when I myself was not convinced that there was any difference.

On close inspection though you can tell the difference.  The first difference is the weight of the glasses, expensive sunglasses are made from a hard plastic called acetate, which is very durable.  People always say 'I'd end up breaking them', expensive sunglasses are much harder to break than cheap ones. Sunglasses in some ways are similar to umbrella's - we all know how rubbish cheap umbrella's are and how a more expensive one will get you through the winter...it is still a grudge though.

I've also heard a lot of people saying 'I'd end up sitting on them'.  However, usually when we buy a luxury product whether it be jewellery or make-up we look after it more than we would a less expensive item.  You aren't likely to sit on your sunglasses if you put them back in their case - which you are likely to do.

The glass in the lenses is also offers a higher level of protection for your eyes. Although less expensive glasses do meet the criteria needed, they often just pass the required level of protection.  An expensive pair (more so Ray-ban and Oakley) will protect your eyes from rays, polarised glasses are especially good for driving as they reduce glare.   I have a fantastic app on the work I-pad that demonstrates this.  I also have a fabulous Ray-ban app that takes your photo - so if you fancy doing a sunglasses post give me a shout.

The lenses are also highly scratch resistant, this is the aspect that has surprised me the most. Most of the glasses are merchandised on self-selecting spinners and they do have a tendency to occasionally fall off, but no scratches.  This in itself has convinced me that making an investment in a luxury pair of sunglasses is the way forward. Now, someone needs to make a phone screen that is as scratch resistant.

In the last couple of weeks I have tried on most of the glasses, as have my work mates.  We all have a favourite pair.  My favourite pair happen to be one of the most expensive at £220..trust me to pick the  expensive ones. We are due to get a lot more stock in, and more brands such as Michael Kors and Tiffany's, I am rather excited.  But, I will leave you will some of my current favourites to 'ohh' over.

Gucci - GG3548/Havana Sunglasses - £220.

These are the pair that suit me the most, different types of sunglasses suit different face shapes. I suit big frames that cover my eyebrows.  I wish aviators and wayfarer suited me, but alas they don't. It doesn't stop me trying them on though.

Ralph - RA5031 - £108.

I love the turquoise on the inside of this pair, they do not suit me in the slightest but they are still one of my favourite pairs.  So far they have been very popular with customers and staff. 

Prada - PR080S - £215

A pair of classic glamour shades.  I would have never went for brown frames before I started this job. I find that black frames can be a little harsh against my pale complexion. The tortoiseshell frame actually suits most complexions  especially blondes. 

Prada - PR04PS - £320

We sadly do not have these beauties in store yet but we have the brown and orange version, which have attracted a lot of attention. I think every member of the beauty department has had a shot of them, very Dame Edna, but fabulous at the same time. 

Ray-ban - RB3025 55 Aviator - £125.00

The photo of these does not do them justice. They are part of Ray-bans celebration collection of the aviator, the frames and lenses come in a range of colours, but most notably green, pink and blue lenses. The green is actually a Ray-ban trademark but in person the green is a lot more noticeable.

All glasses can be found at: http://www.sunglasshut.com and http://www.sunglasshut.com/uk

or you can come visit me at John Lewis, Glasgow.