~ Pomp and Panache ~

Being a beauty blogger, I am always looking for products that will give me the best results in terms of great skin.  My routine got a little monotonous and I was all for something new.  One day, out of boredom I went into my kitchen and came up with a concoction for a homemade mask.  Low and behold, I was surprised!! * chicken dance *  It was a miracle worker as it addressed a couple of issues that I deal with being a dry, sensitive skin type.  Today,  I am going to share with you my secret to clear, healthy skin which you can obtain with simple ingredients that you may have lying in your kitchen shelves. YOU WILL NEED: Chickpea Powder 2.5 Tbsp Sweet Almond Oil 1/2 tsp Turmeric 1/4 tsp Honey 1 tsp Milk 1 tsp Rose Water or Water 2 tsp DIRECTIONS: First, mix the chickpea powder and rose water.  I prefer to use rose water for it's added benefits, but water will do just fine if you're in a pinch.  Then after the two form a thick paste, add the remaining ingredie

Every girl wants big, voluminous hair making heads turn by the millisecond.  I am just the same, maybe not wanting all that attention, but surely love big hair!  I have been using  Philip Kingsley Body Building Shampoo  for quite a while and have come to love it! Philip Kingsley Body Building Shampoo Philip Kingsley Body Building Shampoo works like a charm on fine to limp hair by adding body and texture to it.  I find that it also clarifies my hair just as well as any clarifying shampoo.  My hair tends to dry out a bit if I don't use a conditioner.   But, nothing really comprises the body this bad boy gives.  It retails for  £18 at www.l ookfantastic.com for a bottle of 250ml.

Every girl wants big, voluminous hair making heads turn by the millisecond.  I am jus the same, maybe not wanting all that attention, but certain love big hair!  I have been using  Philip Kingsley Body Building Shampoo  for quite a while and have come to love it! Philip Kingsley Body Building Shampoo Philip Kingsley Body Building Shampoo works like a charm on thin or fine to limp hair by adding body and texture to it.  I find that it also clarifies my hair just as well as any clarifying shampoo.  My hair tends to dry out a bit if I don't use a conditioner.   But, nothing really comprises the body this bad boy gives.  It retails for  £18 at www.l ookfantastic.com for a bottle of 250ml.

I used to use a particular face wash some years ago and then strayed off the path in search for something different.  I was raiding my beauty closet and luckily this face wash was still in date!! * happy days..wink * I decided to use Origins A Perfect World face wash and old memories just came flooding back.   Origins A Perfect World This is a no brainer!! It is not complicated like some other face washes which you either have to apply on dry skin to activate the exfoliating enzymes or wet skin so it slides effortlessly so as to unclog your pores.  With this face wash, you simply squirt a dime size of the gel/cream and I apply it on my wet face.  I like to massage my facial washes to help me relax after a tiring work day.  This is not only relaxing, but also helps clear out any grime which may be festering in my pores.  After use, my skin was wonderfully clean without it being tight.   Origin states the following: " This perfect foaming-face wash with antio

Living with constant air conditioning in sunny, Saudi Arabia, my skin tends to lose moisture.  I can't reapply moisturizers on top of make-up when I am on the go.  So, I love to use facial sprays as they kill two birds with one stone.  They are great for adding dewiness to the skin and also great pick me ups during the working day.  A inexpensive option which I have tried and come to love is the  Mario Badescu Skincare Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs, and Rose Water. Mario Badescu Skincare Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs, and Rose Water This is a great facial spray which will only set you back by a measly $7!! What a deal!! Certainly check it out if you're in the market for a facial spray and don't want to invest in the luxury brands!!

At the blink of an eye, we have already reached the mid-way of another year.  It will be Fall soon enough and I thought to talk about a lip color which I find quite flattering to wear during the Fall/Winter of any year.  I have been wearing the lipstick for the last 2 - 3 years without fail along with my other suspects.  The topic of discussion is the Hydra Smooth Lip Color by Benefit Cosmetics in the color fling thing, a very berry! Benefit: Hydra Smooth Lip Color Benefit: Hydra Smooth Lip Color The Benefit Hydra Smooth Lip Color, comes in an array of about ten different shades to suit all.  You can find corals to pinks to vampy shades.  The Hydra Lip Color USP is that it glides on swiftly onto the lips with the help of a slanted bullet - which gives a precise application. One doesn't need to use a lip brush for the deep, dark, bold colors as well.   Fling thing is a berry shade that goes well with most outfits and doesn't seem to bold either.  If y

Like most girls, I also fall weak at my knees at the sight of a certain accessory (if I find it attractive)!   If you're a loyal reader of my blog, you would have likely guessed it by now!  To cut to the chase, that entity is none other than a brand spanking new handbag!  My latest obsession has been the BALENCIAGA Holiday Collection Metallic Edge City Bag in the colors Rose Des Sables.   BALENCIAGA Holiday Collection Metallic Edge City Bag BALENCIAGA Holiday Collection Metallic Edge City Bag BALENCIAGA Holiday Collection Metallic Edge City Bag The  BALENCIAGA Holiday Collection Metallic Edge City Bag, Rose Des Sables, is a blush pink bag which was released I believe around Fall of 2015 for the Spring/Summer of 2016.  I was late to the party and only discovered the bag in April.  The City Bag would set you back by a whopping  £ 1195.  However, it would be a great investment and a long wearing handbag.  Balenciaga's are well

On days when I am totally exhausted and looking for a quick cleanse opposed to sleeping with my make-up, I usually want to use an easy way out.  I had used Bioderma Sensibio Miscellar Water, but for some odd reason I had began to face some mild reactions to the liquid.  Due to this very reason, I had stopped using the water.  On a trip to Sephora, I saw a travel size bottle of the  SEPHORA COLLECTION Triple Action Cleansing Water .  Without giving it a second thought, I dropped it in my basket. SEPHORA COLLECTION Triple Action Cleansing Water As I mentioned, I purchased the 50ml travel size of the miscellar water at a price of $6.  The consistency is just like ordinary water; a product which is suitable for delicate skin.  It can be used all over the face to wipe off make-up, dirt, and grime.  The water has a special ingredient that sets it in a different league from other miscellar waters, which is  HydroSenn+.   "HydroSenn+ is a plant-derived ingredient that le

I am always open to trying new skincare products being a beauty blogger whether they be serums, lotions, potions, or exfoliants.  On my most wanted hit-list was the most widely talked about and popular aesthetician, Kate Somerville's, products.  Today, I will namely discuss the Kate Somerville ExfoliKate® Gentle Exfoliating Treatment .  Kate Somerville ExfoliKate® Gentle Exfoliating Treatment The exfoliator comes in a 60 ml tube which will set you back by $65.  It is green in color and is similar in consistency to that of a toothpaste.  There are small granules that are part of the physical exfoliant aspect of this treatment.  They  scrub and lift the dead skin cells, enzymes of papaya, pumpkin, and pineapple are part of the mix which help to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, pore size,  improve the blood flow to the skin and oxygen. "Kate Somerville ExfoliKate® Gentle Exfoliating Treatment decongests, detoxifies, and refines skin to reveal a polished, flawless

These days facial balms are the way to go when it comes to removing the daily grime and make-up from the day.  They are mostly used as a first cleanse to remove the main layer of makeup. Ideally you would then go in with another cleanser suitable to your specific skin type to remove the residue that may well be left behind.  The latest buzz I had come across a few years ago was the Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing Balm and decided to give it a whirl.    Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing Balm Emma Hardie Moringa Cleansing Balm (from the inside) The 100ml cleansing balm  comes with a wash cloth and in a pretty gold jar and costs  £38.00 . The balm as the name denotes surely is a thick, luxurious balm which you would massage preferably from my experience on dry skin.   The balm gently melts and becomes like a facial oil, breaking down the make-up including any eye make-up you may have on.  The scent is quite refreshing and I didn't find it at all overpowering.  I

Over the span of the last ten years, I have had an off-on relationship with a certain brand.  I never was brand focused in my early years as a student at school or university.  However, I was introduced to this particular departmental store brand in 2006 after suffering some breakouts for the first time in my life.  It was totally unexpected and was triggered by a trip to a country with a different climate than what I was used to; as I was living in London, United Kingdom at the time.  I was at my wits end since I had never faced such a problem before. It was then that my sister recommended that I try out  Clinique . As a precursor, I would like to tell you that I hardly ever exfoliated my skin and I used Nivea's a face wash and a L'oreal face cream.  My skin was in emaculate condition prior to my trip to the unnamed country. I decided to take up my sister's suggestion and had made my way to get a consultation from the Sales Assistant (SA) at the Clinique depart

Are you looking for an affordable,  yet quality anti-aging face cream?  A cream that delivers what it promises - rich and hydrating?  Then my friends look no further! Today's agenda is the none other than the  Ole Henriksen Truth Revealed™ Vitamin C Super Crème !! Ole Henriksen Truth Revealed™ Vitamin C Super Crème  Ole Henriksen Truth Revealed™ Vitamin C Super Crème  Ole Henriksen Truth Revealed™ Vitamin C Super   Crème comes in a 1.7 oz jar which costs $55.  The cream  feels so smooth, creamy, and gives a cooling sensation once applied to the skin.  The luxurious cream feels as if you're applying an orange ice lolly on to your face which is so refreshing.  It is quite powerful in terms of combatting emerging fine lines, which can be stopped in their tracks if treated early! However, for those who do not like scented products ... BEWARE!! This is highly fragranced!! If I had to pick a con regarding the cream, I think this would be it!! It smells s

NARS launched their new line of lipsticks, I believe back in Fall of 2014.  The NARS Audacious lipssticks were the new on the beauty block and so much hype was created on their launch.  I was eager like other beauty bloggers and was one of the first who got their hands on them. NARS Audacious Lipsticks  In October 2014, I browsed the Nordstrom website and from all the colors they had, I thought it was better to play safe with colors that I knew would be well-loved and were my go-to.  I purchased Raquel and Brigitte.  Both which seemed on-screen as safe bets!  I didn't want to buy more as I wasn't sure if I was gonna like the formula or how well the lipsticks would last.  It was a pure shot in the dark. NARS Audacious Lipsticks: Brigitte (left) and Raquel (right) NARS Audacious Lipsticks swatches: Brigitte (left) and Raquel (right) Upon arrival, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and the texture of the lipsticks. They were beautiful ever

I am always on the look out for ways to give myself the experience of a Spa facial within the comfort of my own home.  In my quest for quality products, I stumbled upon the KERSTIN FLORIAN Clarifying Moor Mud Masque.  Coincidentally, this very mask is used by many spas!  I was pleasantly surprised that I found this product on Nordstrom.com. KERSTIN FLORIAN Clarifying Moor Mud Masque The mask comes in a 133ml tube, which has a shelf life of 12 months.  The Moor Mud Masque consists of a number of minerals and trace elements that help to draw out the impurities from the skin.  The mask is pretty potent and only requires 5 minutes of your time.  It surely can be applied in the morning for a quick clarifying treatment, followed by your morning skincare routine. The mask doesn't make your face burn, but as you near the 5 minute mark; you can feel a slight sensation on your face.  I, personally, don't leave it longer than the said time and prefer to rinse my face usi

As we are steadily entering the spring months, we all are trying to get rid of the dry, flakey skin we tend to get living in cold climates and environments with constant air conditioning also contributes to such skin conditions.   I, myself, fall in the latter category and decided to raid my beauty stash looking for something that would help get rid of the flakiness I was suffering from on my chin.  I stumbled upon THE BODY SHOP's Vitamin E Overnight Serum-In-Oil. \ THE BODY SHOP Vitamin E Overnight Serum-In-Oil  The serum comes in 28ml pink bottle which is quite cute and looks so girly sitting on the vanity!! *huge smiles*   A pipette (dropper)  is used to dispense the serum and one of the best that I have used so far!  Some are so poorly made that you have to pump several times to get the right amount of product you want to apply.   The serum is great for "recharging and replenishing moisture" back into the skin for unto 8 hours as stated by The BODY S

I love soft, hydrated lips which look luscious and plump even without maximizing glosses.   HOURGLASS Nº 28 LIP TREATMENT OIL is one that fits the bill and is an awesome treat for your lil lips which do all the talking for you and face harsh environments!  HOURGLASS Nº 28 LIP TREATMENT OIL HOURGLASS Nº 28 LIP TREATMENT OIL is a great oil for conditioning dry, chapped lips.  The oil consists of 28 ingredients, hence the name.  The lip treatment oil has 14 essential oils, 10 lipid plant rich oils, 4 nourishing vitamins.  The oil is a well balanced product which will help in reducing the lines and wrinkles in the lips and improves the shape as well with continued use.  The product is vegan friendly too! The applicator is made of a 24K gold plated tip which is designed to prevent bacteria from forming around the tip and once applied on the lips a cool sensation is felt.  Enough product is dispensed on the lips and will increase the moisture levels within the lips.

Washing dishes with warm water, living in cold climates, and other daily elements of life lead to dry skin.  Clarins has a great hand and nail treatment cream, which hydrates and softens skin instantly.  CLARINS Hand and Nail Treatment Creme Jeunesse des Mains This is an off white colored slightly thick cream which has a pleasant smell.  It is almost refreshing and immediately soothes tired, stressed hands.  The cream moisturizes skin and also strengthens nails and with use, I have noticed my nails grow faster when I religiously apply the cream and don't stray towards other hand creams. Hands seem to age a bit slowly as sesame oil and Japanese mulberry are the key ingredients that contribute to the benefits of the hand cream.   This is a definitely holy grail product for me, a luxury item for sure.  I wouldn't mind investing about   SR110 for a 100ml tube which lasts me quite a while.  You only need a pea sized amount, which is sufficient for your hands

Whilst browsing the net, as you do, at the end of a long day; I was on Farfetch and was looking at the Dolce & Gabbana bags.  Skimming through the amazing collection of bags, the MISS SICILY in Cherry Red caught my eye!  I think it was love at first sight!! DOLCE & GABBANA Miss Sicily Bag (Cherry Red) The bag seems very spacious and somethng that I can see myself with for years to come!  However, i am still on the fence and question if I really will be able to carry off a red bag.  It would be a first because I usually play safe and buy neutral colors that I know I will use no matter what I decide to wear.  With this color, I am not so sure! I love the fact that the bag is of real leather and not a faux leather one like Stella McCartney's Fallabella bag.  I do like those, but I am just not that committed to drop so much money on a bag that I know isn't even leather!  I love real leahter bags whether they are smooth, pebbled, o

We all want our skin to be luminous and in good condition since we continue to age with every passing day.  There are several products available in the market that claim to do the very same ranging from drugstore brands to high-end luxury skincare brands.  I stumbled upon Caudalie's Vinoperfect Radiance Serum Complexion Correcting in the very process of finding something that would help with some minor hyperpigmentation issues that I was facing from some old blemishes. CAUDALIE Vinoperfect Radiance Serum Complexion Correcting I have used other products from Caudalie and have been pleasantly surprised by their performance.  They are quality products and you can be guaranteed to get your monies worth from the products you do decide to invest in.   I didn't expect anything less from this serum either.   The serum comes in a 30ml glass bottle with a dropper,  I personally don't like the dropper, as you have to pump it many times before you can get enough produ

Recently, I have been drawn to wearing bold colors on my lips.  If you know me, that is quite a statement in itself!  I usually go for nudes or subtle hints of color.  My current crush is a coral-peachy shade and I just keep trying new combinations.  The latest on my hit list which has blown my mind is Marc Jacobs Lovemarc Lip Gel in Dizzy Spell and NYX lipgloss in Apple Strudel. Marc Jacobs Lovemarc Lip Gel in Dizzy Spell & NYX lipgloss in Apple Strudel Marc Jacobs Lovemarc Lip Gel in Dizzy Spell is a pale coral which adds a slight sheen to the lips and makes them look plump.  The NYX lipgloss in Apple Strudel smells delicious and not to forget; it will make your pout will be a head turner!! Marc Jacobs Lovemarc Lip Gel in Dizzy Spell & NYX lipgloss in Apple Strudel Both of these, can definitely be worn on their own, but together they are the BOMB !!  I just love the pale coral shade which adds a hint of color to my pale skin and the gloss just adds t

I was looking for a new hydrating mask on an online shopping spree and came across the brand JUARA.  I hadn't heard of this brand before and was intrigued by it.  The products are free from all harmful chemicals which we are all looking for and highly value.  For this reason, I decided to go ahead and purchase JUARA's Avocado Banana Moisture Mask. JUARA Avocado Banana Moisture Mask  JUARA Avocado Banana Moisture Mask  The mask is suitable for all skin types which I believe is great - doesn't leave out any one skin type.  The mask is a green creamy, rich mask which instantly hydrates and softens, dull dehydrated skin. The key ingredients of the mask are avocado that provides the intense hydration and banana which adds in the moisture to the skin.  Both these ingredients are the winning combination that help to hydrate and retain the moisture within the skin. If you are suffering from dry skin from living in extremely harsh weather condition

Being readers of my blog, you all would know by now I have dry and sensitive skin. To keep it looking parched and irritated, I am looking for products that would hydrate my skin.  About a year ago, I was in my local supermarket in Jeddah, Danube, and  picked up the VLCC Witch Hazel and Rose Water Face Wash.  I had never previously heard of the brand and decided to give this a whirl. VLCC Witch Hazel and Rose Water Face Wash The VLCC Witch Hazel and Rose Water comes in a 150ml tube, like most other face washes available at the drugstore.  The face wash has a pleasant smell which reminds of me Johnson's & Johnson's Baby Lotion in terms of both color and fragrance.  It has a creamy texture, but it is not a foaming cleanser.  I appreciate the fact that it is soap free and that is what makes it a winner in my books.   The face wash is hydrating as it claims and doesn't dry out my skin.  However, I don't think it lives up to the claim of fully remo

Exfoliating ones skin is necessary to keep it from looking dull and preventing clogged pores.  Many people choose to use abrasive physical exfoliants that do sometimes irritate the skin.  I, on a personal level, don't like using those physical exfoliants as they tend to damage my skin no matter how gentle I am.  There had come a time when I didn't want to exfoliate my skin as I would get bumps and scratches from the usual process.  Then I came across, Alpha H.  I was inttrigued by the brand and read up on it.  I decided to try the glycolic acid based chemical exfoliant as a dermotologist had previously given me a face wash and a facial topical lotion that had contained alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs).   ALPHA H Liquid Gold with Glycoiic Acid I didn't know what to expect and I was somewhat apprehensive.  I followed the instructions to the 'T' and didn't want to experiment with it; and damage my skin since it was a concentrated chemical.  Before bedtime, I