Review: Joliebox, March 2012

(I do apologise for the awful quality of these photographs)

As a writer, I take reviews very seriously. I remember how frustrating it was when I was trying to get an idea of which box to subscribe to and all I came across was post after post about what was inside the box and not much about the products. So whilst my beauty box reviews may be slightly tardy, and this one is extremely so, I do like to take a bit of time to make sure products abilities match my initial impressions.

The March JolieBox was colourful and interesting. All the products it contained were full size samples. It featured a new mini magazine, filled with product suggestions, beauty tips, interviews and insight into the inner workings at Joliebox . This could be a rather handy addition for the less beauty savvy types like me. The box also came with a Loveheartsandcrosses voucher.

My box contained the Yardley Body Wash in English Lavender. The smell is strong but not overwhelming, soothing and transporting. It’s fast become one of the products I use regularly as, particularly after disastrous commutes home in the evenings, getting into the shower and using it manages to calm me down. The scent lingers for a decent amount of time afterwards and when I get into bed I can still feel its calming effect.

I really like the tube the Davines Moisturising Balm comes in as I like things that look imperfect. Thus far, I’ve only used it on my hands and the formula was very hydrating. I wasn’t keen on its smell, which reminds me of some plant I can’t identify. I did find it leaves a slightly greasy after-feel so I would suggest using it only if you’re not going to touch anything afterwards.

I also got the Eyeko Skinny Eyeliner in Powder Pink which looked virtually white against my skin. The pencil shape is great however, and I do think I will put it to use at some point. I’m not a fan of glitter so I don’t think I’ll use the LCN nail polish, as even a slight hint of it annoys me but if that’s the sort of thing you like then this pastel shade is ideal for this summer. Lastly, my box came with a Joliebox branded compact mirror.

All in all, I wasn’t displeased with this box. I really needed a new compact mirror and I’m so in love with the Yardley shower gel. It’s available from Boots for £3.50 so do give it a go.

Photo recap #2: The last few weeks at a glance

Things have been going rather well recently. I’ve started a new job and I need to work out a way to regulate blog posts from here on. I get home rather late and don’t have much time for anything but I’ll come up with a plan. I hope.

I still can’t get over the gorgeous view of the Thames, even though I see it every day on the train to and from work. The view of the houses and the aeroplanes from the station in West London is also so pretty. I actually sat on the grass in the sun on my first day, something I’d never do. One of the guys at work is a great cook and he made us Thai Green Chilli and sticky rice, a major contrast to my boring noodles. My boss’ mum bought us chocolate bunnies for Easter and she also bought me my favourite tea, honey and the milk I use. I had to take a moment to reflect with a Rekorderlig, which is arguably the best cider.

I’ve been obsessed with Ramin Djawadi’s composition and I’m so happy Game of Thrones is back. I also snapped up my copy of W featuring Bad Kate. I was a little annoyed because I’ve only just cut back on the number of magazines I buy and now my local WHSmith has started stocking V.

All in all, it’s been a great few weeks. I spent Easter weekend relaxing and watching The Chamber of Secrets in my new bed slippers and I just felt so content. I’m going to consider everything that happens hereafter as part of a fresh start.

P.S. The app I used to edit these photos on my Blackberry is Photo Studio Editor Pro. It cost me £4 but it is well worth the price.

MUA All In One Beauty Balm review

I had no idea what a Blemish Balm was until a few weeks ago. As I’ve mentioned before, I was never the most adventurous with makeup until a few months ago.

My main concern was how can a product which boasts so many properties in one possibly be good for the skin? When you have to wear makeup five days out of seven, the general result is unfortunate breakouts. I wondered if this revolutionary product may simply further provoke skin trouble. I wasn’t too keen on forking out a lot when I was so uncertain and I felt too shy to ask for a sample or two, so instead I bought the newest addition on offer by MUA.

I’ve used MUA products before and I’ve never had any complaints. The brand is a good example of how, sometimes, price doesn’t necessarily guarantee excellent quality. In this instance, I would go as far as to say the price tag is generous considering certain attributes of this product. At an introductory price of £3, I think this was a smart idea to try this first but I would suggest you ask for samples before you buy an important product such as a BB cream

What I found was that you need not apply much at all, as a drop the size of a needle head is enough to smooth over a fair bit of your face. The tiny hole in the tube enables you to squeeze a small amount out at a time, a rather crafty idea by MUA. I was slightly worried the Dark colour would be too dark for my complexion. However, the shade suited me fine and I was able to work it into my skin easily, despite the formula feeling somewhat thick at first.

I did think I looked a little too ‘white’ after applying it. On the first day I used it, I carefully applied a bit of lotion into my skin after applying the BB cream to get rid of the effect. The second time I used it though, I had a bit more time to spare and I noticed it adapted to the colour of my skin on its own within a few minutes.

Regarding coverage, I felt the overall effect was more natural than when I apply concealer and foundation myself. I felt comfortable with the application and my skin didn’t feel heavy or greasy. It’s worth mentioning that I did break out in a few blemishes on my cheeks in the days after using this however, I have troublesome skin so it’s very likely the two are unrelated.

In conclusion, I would recommend this product and particularly if, like myself, you’re not too confident with your usual application abilities. Perhaps the best benefit of a Blemish Balm is that it saves you a lot of time too. This product is easy to apply, it doesn't smell odd and its effects are pleasant. I do also believe if you aren't the type to apply far too much makeup at a time, this small tube could last you a long while and considering its price, it is most certainly a bargain.