Tuesday T. Bryan

Sunday, 9 February 2014

NEW No7 Gel-Look Shine Nail Colour; "Galaxy" & "Peacock Green"; review + photos

Image - above: No7 Gel-Look Shine Nail Colour; "Galaxy" (left) and "Peacock Green" (right).

Today's review features a fairly new product from No7 at Boots that I fell in love with instantly, No7 Gel-Look Shine Nail Colour. It's got great wear, deep glossy colour, and a high-shine finish. Here I will share my thoughts on two very different shades, Galaxy and Peacock Green, but there are more available (and I'll certainly be getting more soon!!).

First of all, let's discuss the finish. As the name suggests, it gives a gel-look shine. Sometimes I get a little apprehensive when products make these sort of claims as they don't always live up to expectations, but this stuff has a stunning high-shine finish. You don't even need a top coat to give it extra shine, but I used one anyway to lock in the colour for longer.

It also has fantastic wear. My hands are pretty hard working, and it did me proud. I've added a photo of my nails in Galaxy after 3 days of wear (see end of review); sadly it did loose most of it's eye-catching luster, but the durable formula was still going strong, not a chip in sight!! To renew it's shine, just add a quick-drying high-shine top coat. Your manicure will look as good as new!! No7 do sell a clear top coat in the Gel-Look Shine range, but I haven't got my hands on it yet.

The pigment-rich formula gives spectacular coverage with just one coat, but I used two for extra wear (one coat never seems to last as long on my thin nails). I'd say the drying time is average. The polish has a medium-thick consistency, so, although it doesn't take long to dry, it's not as quick as No7's Speed Dry polishes (I'm not sure if they're available to purchase via Boots.com anymore, I can't find them on the website).

Now, let's talk colour!! Here are some words on the 2 shades I used:

Galaxy is an enchanting three-dimensional dark purple. It's infused with various shades of purple specks of glitter. This eye-catching shade looks different in every light, and the high-shine finish really sets of the shimmer. This polish is perfect for Winter.

Image - below; "Galaxy" in natural daylight (left), and when photographed with a camera flash (right).

Peacock Green is a bright, eye-catching, slightly metallic shade of green. I absolutely adore it. It's more of a Spring / Summer shade, but I couldn't resist going against the flow and rocking it in the Winter, too. It's fantastic in sandals for showing off your Summer pedicure, and I reckon a tan would make the shade look brighter still. I can see where it gets it's name from, it will certainly turn heads!!

Image - below; "Peacock Green" in natural daylight (left), and when photographed with a camera flash (right).

Image - below; "Galaxy" after 3 days of wear. Sadly, it's did lost most of it's eye-catching luster, but the durable formula is still going strong, not a chip in sight!! To renew it's shine, just add a quick-drying high-shine top coat.

I'm sure you can tell I'm a real fan of this nail polish. There are currently 10 colours available on the Boots website (including a clear top coat) for £7.00 each. I've always been a lover of No7's make up, so I had high hopes. No7, you did not let me down. Thank you!! XOXO

Click here to purchase No7 Gel-Look Shine Nail Colour via the Boots website.

By Tuesday T. Bryan.
http://tuesdaytbryan.blogspot.com/

Click here to FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER! #F4F

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Image - below; My nail polish is No7 Gel-Look Shine Nail Colour in "Peacock Green." My lip colour is Avon Plump & Stay Lip Colour in "Rosy Resistance." My waterfall cardigan is from Hobbs. My gold chain is a family heirloom.

Thursday, 30 January 2014

Bomb Cosmetics; My thoughts on their bath time delights; Review + photos

Please note: All prices based on the Bomb Cosmetics website. Prices may vary when purchased from your local retailer.

At the end of this blog post you will find a list of useful links relating to this review, plus links to all the products mentioned.

"Expect indulgence on a budget, without compromising on results."

Fancy making bath time a touch more special? Made in Dorset, these fizzy favorites from Bomb Cosmetics instantly turn everyday bathing into an indulgent delight!

There are endless products to choose from, I felt like a kid in a sweet show when picking mine! I really was spoilt for choice, but I finally opted for the Fresh Berry Blaster (which looks like a bowl of ice cream and smells just like Raspberry Ripple), a selection on little Bath Creamers and Mallows which turn your tub into a creamy, nourishing, sweetly-scented skin treatment, as well a pot of Piña Colada-scented Pout Polish Lip Scrub, and a bar of rather breath-taking and artistic-looking soap.

You can search for your nearest stockist by using the "Find a Retailer" option on the Bomb Cosmetics website (mine is only located five minutes from my house, lucky me!), or you can simply order online. You'll find all their produce on their website.

Why not start your day with the invigorating scent of the Pineapple Expressed Bath Blaster? It's sure to make you feel refreshed and wide awake. Or, to unwind after a stressful day's work, try the Lavender Bath Creamer. It's infused with lavender oil and rolled in dry lavender, perfect for a tranquil, relaxing bath to bring about calm (perfect for bedtime). If you fancy a sweet treat, immerse yourself in the delicious fragrance of the Cherry Pie Bath Mallow - it's an indulgent delight minus the guilt and calories! It even looks like a little cup cake. A time when many of us feel we need to relax both the mind and body is after a gym

session. The Lime Blossom And Lavender Brulee delivers an invigorating citrus scent and a refreshing bathing sensation, perfect for soothing the muscles and reviving the senses after a hard work out. Plus, one Bath Brulee can be used six times, so you needn't feel like reserving it for that "one special bath".

Of course, relaxing in a steaming hot bath isn't just for us ladies. And, Gents, Bomb Cosmetics have got you covered. Check out the Man Grenade Blaster, which releases an explosive rush of black pepper and rosemary oil as it fizzes. Or, if you're more of a "shower man", your perfect purchase has to be the Reef Reviver Shower Soap. The solid shower soaps last ages, and this one is fragranced with masculine eucalyptus and stimulating spearmint.

Bomb Cosmetics are sure to make an impact when it comes to the design of their products. Expect serious eye-candy when browsing their bath time delights, especially the Soap Slices, which really are a sight to savor. I couldn't resit getting my hands on the stunning Adventures In Eden Soap, it's reminiscent of slices of fruit encased in a block of jelly! Don't think that these luxury goodies will break the bank, though. All of the Bath Mallows are priced at £2.24, and the Bath Blaster prices peak at £2.29. Plus, almost all of the products are not for just one use. The Handmade Soap Slices last what seems like forever, and, as previously mentioned, the Bath Brulees can be used six times and only cost £3.49 each.

Other products from Bomb Cosmetics include Body Scrubs, Shower Gels, Hair care, Home Fragrances, Lip Care, Massage Bars... the list is endless. Be sure to head over to their website to see their full range.

Bomb Cosmetics; Locally produced, handmade, natural ingredients, and an extensive range of products, all of which nourish the body and uplift soul. Expect indulgence on a budget, without compromising on results. I'm impressed (and addicted).

By Tuesday T. Bryan.
http://tuesdaytbryan.blogspot.com/

Click here to LIKE MY FACEBOOK PAGE!

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Useful links:

Bomb Cosmetics: http://bombcosmetics.co.uk/
"Find A Retailer": http://bombcosmetics.co.uk/stores/pages/view/

- NEW! My Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/tuesdaytbryan

- My beauty blog: http://tuesdaytbryan.blogspot.com/

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- My Twitter: http://twitter.com/tuesdaytbryan

- My Google+: http://google.com/+TuesdayTBryan

Image source: Tuesday T. Bryan Instagram / http://instagram.com/tuesdaytbryan

Watch this space for more honest and detailed beauty reviews + helpful high-res images in every post!! Don't forget to follow me on Google+ (I follow everyone back).
My Google+ profile: google.com/+TuesdayTBryan

Tuesday. XOXO

Monday, 20 January 2014

UPDATE: Coming soon...

Hi all!!

I just thought I'd post a quick update about what will be coming to my blog soon.

I'm currently working on a review of a fantastic luminous highlighter from Barbara Daly, which has become one of my daily make up products. It was love at first application!! Below is a photo of myself sporting this product, I love the healthy glow it gives my skin.

I've just completed a review of some products from Bomb Cosmetics, who sell an endless range of sweet treats for bath time, all handmade in Dorset, England. Below is a snap of me with some of their produce. Bomb Cosmetics, I'm impressed (and addicted...).

Watch this space for honest and detailed beauty reviews + helpful high-res images in every post!! Don't forget to follow me on Google+ (I follow everyone back).
My Google+ profile: google.com/+TuesdayTBryan

Tuesday. XOXO

Click here to FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER! #F4F

Click here to LIKE MY FACEBOOK PAGE!

Saturday, 21 December 2013

❄10 High-End Winter Lip Colours and their Cash-Saving High Street Alternatives.❄

❄High-End Winter Lip Colours and their Cash-Saving Alternatives.❄

One of the things I love about Winter fashion is being able to don the darks. I just adore deep, rich lip colours! So, I've complied a list of stunning high-end lip shades that are perfect for this season. Of course, if you want high-end you have to expect a high price. So, in case you don't want to splash too much cash, for each pricey product I've found a similar alternative with a high street price. For ultimate drama, pair your sultry Winter lips with a matching nail polish, flawless skin, and simple eye make up. Whether you're into the bold and daring or if you like to keep it simple and sweet, there's something for everyone wanting to rock the timeless Winter trend.
All prices are approximate.
Click links / product names for purchase information.
All images via Google Images.

1. Serge Lutens Fard à Lèvres Lipstick - Couvre Feu.

This beautiful berry shade from Serge Lutens is a real stunner. Deep and dark, Couvre Feu sure to draw positive attention your way. Every Serge Lutens lipstick is sculpted to a point for precise and defined application and to emphasise the contour of the lips. You can expect your bank balance to take a hit of around £50 if you buy this product. When you run out you can even purchase refills so you don't have to buy it again and again (although, at about £30 each, they still don't come cheap!).

- High Street alternative: Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick - Va Va Violet (£7.49).

2. Chanel Rouge Allure Luminous Satin Lip Colour - Rouge Noir.

This seductive, vampy shade from Chanel is an absolute classic when it comes to Winter lipstick. Team is with the matching Rouge Noir Le Vernis Nail Colour (approx. £17.50 per 13ml bottle) and who could resist your sultry charms? This little beauty will set you back around £25, but surely that's not too much for such an iconic lipstick?

- High Street alternative: Collection Gothic Glam Lipstick - Revenge (£2.99). Click here for my review of Collection Gothic Glam Lipstick in "Scorned" and "Revenge"!8

3. YSL Golden Gloss - 37 Golden Red.

Not many of us consider going for gloss when it comes to dark Wintery lip shades, usually a lipstick is the go-to product, but this stunning shade from Yves Saint Laurent may be the one to change your mind. This wondrous burgundy shade is sure to be a hit for the Party Season as it's infused with golden shimmer. Plus, on the whole, glosses will keep your lips hydrated better than a lipstick will in a season when many of us suffer from dry lips. It can be yours for around the £22 mark.

- High Street alternative: B. Glossy Shimmering Lip Gloss - Cassis 24 (£6.99).

4. MAC Lipstick - Cyber.

Time for a product from the much-loved MAC Cosmetics! I've included this lipstick as a high-end item, however MAC is not as pricey as a lot of other designer brands out there. In fact, this lipstick will cost you £15, which isn't bad at all! I've chosen this product from their original Lipstick collection, as opposed to a limited edition shade. Cyber is a Gothic-inspired opaque purple hue with a satin finish. Purples like these are a suitably interesting change from the usual reds this season.

- High Street alternative: Rimmel Kate Lasting Finish Lipstick - 004 (£5.49).

5. Lancôme L'Absolu Rouge Christmas Limited Edition Lipstick - 132 Caprice.

This product HAS to be on this list for two reasons. Firstly, the limited edition glittery packaging is to die for and it's so Christmassy! Secondly, you just can't go wrong with a sexy classic red lip this Winter (or any time of year, for that matter). It's only available in two shades, 132 Caprice, which is the best-selling shade I've chosen, and limited edition Lancôme heritage shade, Etincelle #189. If you're looking for a lip shade that won't let you down, this is definitely one to consider. However, at £25, this collector's edition lipstick doesn't come cheap.

- High Street alternative: Seventeen Lasting Fix Lipstick - Hot Chilli (£4.29).

6. By Terry Hyaluronic Sheer Rouge - #10 Berry Boom.

Some ladies find it a little too daring to go for the shades I've listed above. If you're one of them, why not opt for a red lipstick with a sheer finish instead? Choose a product such as Hyaluronic Sheer Rouge from the French beauty company, By Terry. By wearing a shade such as Berry Boom, you can rock the dark Wintery lips without feeling too bold. This product costs around £25.

- High Street alternative: Avon Shine Attract Lipstick - Passionate Red (£8.50).

7. Illamasqua Lipstick - Pristine.

Let's move on from delicate, sheer colour to the ultimate daring hue... Black lips have become quite popular recently, and celebs such as style icon Rihanna and the beautifully eccentric Lady Gaga have been spotted sporting this shade. Believe it or not, the darkest-of-dark colour can suit all skin tones, you just have to know what to pair it with. For ultimate high-end Gothic glamour I've chosen Illamasqua Lipstick in Pristine, which has a matte finish. This product can be purchased from the Illamasqua website for £16.50.

- High Street alternative: Barry M Lip Paint - Black (£4.49).

8. Chubby Stick Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm - Two Ton Tomato.

I've slipped this one into my list of Winter lip colours because, at this time of year, a lot of us suffer from dry lips due to the harsh temperatures. As well as delivering bright colour with a shiny finish, this highly popular product from Clinique conditions and hydrates the lips, too! I've chosen the shade Two Ton Tomato as it's a little brighter than some of the other reds I've shared with you which makes it a little more versatile and suitable for all year round. I also love the fun "crayon" style applicator! Clinique Chubby Sticks are widely available for about £17.00.

- High Street alternative: No7 High Shine Lip Crayon - Statement (£9.00).

9. Shu Uemura Lip and Cheek Tint Color - Magical Red.

I want to share this product from Shu Uemura, a cosmetics company that originated from Japan. The versatile tint can be used on both the lips and the cheeks, and it's easy to build so you can layer it up for more intensity if you wish. It's also really long lasting, so you needn't worry about touch-ups all day! It's available in a range of shades, but I chose Magical Red as I think it's beautifully suited to Winter. At £20 a pop, it's not the cheapest stain on the market.

- High Street alternative: Gosh Long Lasting Lip Marker - Berry Red 3 (£6.99).

10. Bobbi Brown Creamy Matte Lip Color - Crushed Plum.

For my final product I wanted to chose a shade with a touch more femininity. Crushed Plum by Bobbi Brown is deep, rich and seductive berry shade. The purple-ish tone makes it appear a little more flirty and feminine than some darker reds and purples. It delivers 8 hour wear, a weightless feel, and a creamy moisturising formula. Impressive! There are currently 19 shades to choose from on Bobbi Brown's website, and they'll cost you £19 each.

- High Street alternative: ModelsOwn Lipstick - Plum (£6.00).

So, there you have it! Some of my favorite high-end lip colours that are on-trend for Winter, plus similar products that are readily available on the high street that won't break the bank! Hopefully you've found you're perfect shade, or maybe you've found something new that you'll be donning for the party season.

❄Merry Christmas!❄

By Tuesday T. Bryan.
http://tuesdaytbryan.blogspot.com

Thursday, 19 December 2013

High-End Hair Serums & Their Penny-Pinching Alternatives; 8 wonder-products for specific hair do dilemmas!!!

Blow-drying, colouring, styling, products, heat, the sun, and the environment can all cause damage to our hair. There are countless numbers of hair care products on the market to treat all sorts of problems. Oils and serums seem to be the most effective treatments as they instantly provide our damaged locks with deep, intense nourishment. So I've compiled a list of some popular products from more expensive brands that come with a rather sizable price tag, and a cheaper alternative product that delivers similar results without breaking the bank. Each product varies in the hair do dilemma it's said to solve. What will you opt for, a bank-breaker or a money-saver?
All prices are approximate.

1. For all-round goodness.
Liz Earle Botanical Shine Nourishing Hair Oil.

If you're looking for an easy-to-use product with multiple benefits, this may be the miracle product for you. This nourishing hair oil from Liz Earle claims to "condition, smooth and minimise frizz in one luxurious step". This clever little oil could prove especially useful to you if you often dry and style your hair using heat, as it protects against heat damage caused by styling and also reduces blow-drying time. With an RRP of £15.00 for a 50ml pump, it's not the cheapest product on the market, but a little goes a long way as you only need 1-2 pumps per use.

☆Penny-Pinching alternative: Tresemmé Salon Smooth Serum. £4.50 (30ml).

2. Moroccan Argan Oil treatment.
Moroccanoil Treatment.

I'm sure most of us have heard the recent hype about the benefits of using Moroccan Argan Oil for our hair. There's been a huge increase of products containing this "miracle oil", and this one from Moroccanoil comes with a hefty price tag of about £30 for 100ml. Not only does it promise to add a glossy finish and brilliant shine, but it also has the ability to repair damage caused by the environment and chemical procedures. It can used on natural hair, but also on wigs and hair extensions. It's instantly absorbed to give a natural-looking healthy finish without residue.

☆Penny-Pinching alternative: Organix Moroccan Argan Oil Weightless Healing Oil Spray. £6.99 (118ml).

3. For coloured hair.
Kérastase ELIXIR ULTIME Colour-Treated Hair.

If you have coloured hair it can sometimes prove difficult to keep it looking and feeling as lustrous and vivid as appears when first dyed. There are some excellent treatments available, and this "beautifying-oil" from the popular brand Kérastase is used to restore radiance and depth of colour as well as to protect your colour-treated locks. At around £30 for a 125ml bottle, it doesn't come cheap!

☆Penny-Pinching alternative: L'Oréal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil for Coloured Hair. £8.50 (100ml)

4. To add glorious shine.
Serge Normant Meta Sheer Dry Oil Finishing Spray.

Dull hair is a problem many of us suffer from, and a temporary quick-fix solution is to finish your hair with a shine spray. This weightless finishing oil by Serge Normant not only adds luxurious shine, but it also controls frizz, adds texture, and contains natural botanical oils, vitamins and proteins for extra nourishment. It has a non-greasy look and feel, and can be used on wet or dry hair. A 50ml bottle will set you back approximately £23, so use it sparingly!

☆Penny-Pinching alternative: Avon Advance Techniques 360 Nourishment Moroccan Argan Oil Lightweight Gloss Spray. £5.50 (100ml). Click here for my review of this brilliant cheap and cheerful product from Avon!

5. To restore balance to dry or oily scalps.
j.f. lazartigue Oily Scalp Intensive Sebum Treatment Serum.

A dry scalp often leads to the much-dreaded dandruff, but, with so many products available to nourish and hydrate, you needn't panic! This treatment from j.f. lazartigue restores the balance of your scalp and so fights dryness and excess sebum (the root of oily hair). This intensive treatment is easy to use, it's simply massaged into the scalp and left in - there's no need to rinse. Applying it to the scalp allow the product to work on the roots of the hair which promotes healthy growth. It's also deep-cleaning, purifying, and anti-bacterial. If you often suffer from dandruff or oily hair, this is definitely a product to consider, but be prepared for your wallet to take a hit, as it will cost you around £28.00 for 75ml.

☆Penny-Pinching alternative: BC Bonacure Scalp Therapy Serum. £10.00 (30ml).

6. To protect from sun damage.
Shu Uemura Art of Hair Essence Absolue.

In the heat, our hair is often forgotten as we focus on the protection of our skin, but hair suffers easily from sun damage, too. If you're one for splashing out on hair care products, maybe the whopping £40.00 price tag for 150ml of this Shu Uemura product won't come much of a shock. It promises to protect the hair from damage caused by UV rays, combat dryness and frizz, as well as providing intense moisture and deep nourishment. It's miracle ingredient is said to be Camellia Oil, which is a great scalp-conditioner that also promotes healthy hair growth.

☆Penny-Pinching alternative: Solar Sport SPF 30 Dry Sunscreen For Hair And Scalp. £4.99 (25ml).

7. To protect and add volume to fine hair.
Nioxin DiaBoost.

Fine hair can prove problematic as it's prone to break easily and become dry and unmanageable, often leaving it's sufferers craving more voluminous and nourished locks. A treatment is a great way to provide your hair with intense hydration, which is what this product from Nioxin is proven to give. It also boosts the hair's volume by increasing the thickness of your existing strands, makes the hair more manageable, and strengthens weak hair making it more resilient and able to fight breakages. Daily application is advised to achieve the best results. At around £40.00 for 100ml, all that goodness doesn't come cheap!

☆Penny-Pinching alternative: Joico Body Luxe Volumizing Elixir. £11.00 (200ml).

8. For mature and damaged hair.
L'Anza Healing Strength Neem Plant Silk Serum.

Over time our hair becomes more vulnerable and shows age, just like our skin, but their are products out their to fight signs of ageing and revitalise mature hair. This treatment serum from L'Anza fortifies the hair to make it stronger, causing breakage to reduce dramatically and promoting strong, healthy growth. It also adds glorious, youthful shine without looking oily. This product is not only excellent for mature hair, but it could also be your hair's savior if your locks have been damaged by heat styling and chemical processing. It has added UVA/UVB protection to help combat damage caused by the sun's harmful rays.

☆Penny-Pinching alternative: Weleda Revitalising Hair Tonic. £9.95 (100ml).

So, there you have my list of High-End Hair Oils and Serums. There are many more available, but I'd be researching and writing indefinitely! Hopefully, my findings have helped you discover the product that may resolve your barnet issues once-and-for-all!

By Tuesday T. Bryan.
http://tuesdaytbryan.blogspot.com/

Tuesday T. Bryan

Sunday, 9 February 2014

NEW No7 Gel-Look Shine Nail Colour; "Galaxy" & "Peacock Green"; review + photos

Thursday, 30 January 2014

Bomb Cosmetics; My thoughts on their bath time delights; Review + photos

Monday, 20 January 2014

UPDATE: Coming soon...

Saturday, 21 December 2013

❄10 High-End Winter Lip Colours and their Cash-Saving High Street Alternatives.❄

Thursday, 19 December 2013

High-End Hair Serums & Their Penny-Pinching Alternatives; 8 wonder-products for specific hair do dilemmas!!!

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