Fragrance of the spring - Cath Collins Lily Fandango

Cath Collins (more info here) has a wide range of fragrances, bath oils, body lotions and other scented body and hair products and I must admit, I hadn't heard a lot about the brand until I was introduced to it a few weeks ago. I love a unique scent, love a beautiful, stylish packaging and love anything that smells different. By 'different' I mean a fragrance that is not at all mainstream and that is one-of-a-kind.
I was sent Cath Collins' Lily Fandango - 'tis her newest perfume - and I fell in love with it almost instantly.

Lily Fandango is, according to Cath Collins, a fresh oriental. She says: "Sizzling citrus and green notes whisk you on an olfactory dance through passionate white lilies, jasmine and cassis bud to the rich and intriguing oriental base of cedarwood, patchouli and oakmoss. Be seduced".

It may sound and look boring on the paper - we all know a few fragrances that have a prominent jasmine or lily note, don't we? - but, actually, this is one of the most exciting scents I have come across for a long time. Lily Fandango isn't just another 'floriental', it is so much more than that. It has definitely got a vintage style. Lily Fandango starts citrus-y and quite green - there's a lot of earthiness in the top notes, but they're still sizzling, still bright and still very cheerful. Within an hour or so, it suddenly 'goes' more floral - lilies, jasmine and cassis bud take charge, but again, the earthiness is present and makes those flowers smell very different and special. It is a floral bouquet like no other - it is captivating, quite strong and definitely very unique. Lily Fandango's drydown, on me, is musky and almost powdery. I love how it softens after that wicked 'floral dance' and stays close to the skin and feels really comforting. The earthiness is still there, and so are the citrus and flowers, but the base is smoother and more silent.
Lily Fandango is, in my opinion, worlds apart from any other 'florientals' I own. Its interesting, ever-evolving character, its vintage earthiness and its beautiful drydown make it a unique scent indeed.

Cath Collins' products are all beautifully packaged (see the pic below) and there are quite a few fragrances, and other beauty products, to choose from:

You can buy the products on Cath Collins' website and from Fortnum & Mason. Lily Fandango 50ml EDT retails at £35.50.

PS: Just to clarify, I wasn't paid for this overly positive review. Lily Fandango is my fragrance of this spring and it probably shows that I should look into trying out more scents by lesser known brands - who would've thought the mainstream perfumes would become so... boring?

Conditioning shower gels for dry skin, ft. Love Your Skin London & Bioderma

I have been very unwell recently and this, coupled with the fact the weather's been so dreadful and cold, has made my skin really dry. I don't usually pay attention to what body wash I'm using - as long as it smells good and lathers well, it's all great. However, recently I have had to be a bit more picky. Sure, a shower gel alone will not hydrate my skin - I use quite intensive body moisturisers for that purpose - but I believe that a gentle, soothing body wash can make a difference, i.e it won't aggravate the dryness and it will help to condition dry skin.
Here are my two top picks, two products that have actually made a difference and that I will be re-purchasing ASAP:

The Love Your Skin London Collagen Bath & Shower Cleansing Gel (£12.99, here) is a beautiful rich body wash that not only smells wonderful, but also cleanses skin without stripping it of moisture. It contains collagen, evening primrose oil and aloe vera and feels thoroughly soothing on my (currently) sensitive skin. The shower gel has a light and quite a refreshing scent, lathers up nicely and feels really luxurious thanks to its rich creamy texture. I do feel like this product hydrates very well - my skin never feels tight after showering (which, unfortunately, has been the case with quite a lot of other products) and I only need to use a light body lotion to add some extra nourishment. Because I've been so impressed with the LYS Collagen shower gel, I am now looking into purchasing their Collagen Body Moisturising Gel (£16.99, here) too - I am sure the two products would work wonderfully together.

Bioderma's Atoderm Gentle Shower Gel (£7, here) is, most possibly, one of the gentlest shower products I have ever used. I know everyone's excited that Bioderma is now also available in the UK and that a lot of people rave about their skincare, but I am all about this shower gel right now (though I am planning t invest into a few of their skincare bits too!).
This is a gel that transforms into a creamy lather and softens skin almost immediately. It's very lightly scented - think soapy and mild - and a little goes a very long way. I had some redness on my arms/elbows recently and I am quite sure this shower gel alone made it calm down. Bioderma do say that 'feelings of tightness are reduced, the skin is moisturised and comfort is restored once more to skin that is prone to irritation' and yup, I can guarantee that it is indeed ultra soothing and hydrating. A must for anyone with dry, sensitive skin - I'm not planning to be without Atoderm for the foreseeable future.

I will be doing a post on two great calming body lotions/moisturisers this weekend so be sure to 'check in' again then.

Introducing Givenchy Dahlia Noir L'Eau EDT

Givenchy's Dahlia Noir Eau De Parfum was, in my opinion, one of THE fragrances of 2012. It was and is so different from all the other scents I have in my collection and I love to wear it on very special occasions. It is a powdery, dark, alluring scent that captivates everyone around me and gives me a lot of confidence. In fact, you can read my full review on Dahlia Noir EDP here.
This spring sees the launch of Dahlia Noir L'Eau - she's the lighter, fresher version of the original. I have been lucky as I was sent the bottle of L'Eau a few weeks ago and, guess what, I have found it to be just as grande as the Eau De Parfum.

"Givenchy presents a refreshing version Dahlia Noir L'Eau in spring 2013. This perfume line, according to the idea of creative director Riccardo Tisci, embodies a mysterious and unusual woman as well as an imaginary flower that combines dark danger and tenderness, purity and sensuality.

Dahlia Noir L'Eau is more vivid, livelier and a fresher scent than the original, but it is still elegant and sensual. With this composition Francois Demachy wants to show the delicate side of the dangerous black dahlia flower. The top sparkles with cool crystal citruses and neroli, which lead to the floral heart of rose petals. The base is made of patchouli, cedar and musk, giving a chypre character to the perfume."

The bottle is, as you see, very spring-y and light - I knew what I as expecting from the juice inside before I even opened it. And hey, it didn't disappoint me - in fact, Dahlia Noir L'Eau was a lot more than I expected it to be. Yes, this is a clean and fresh fragrance - perfect for spring/summer, no doubt about it - but it's got a 'kick' that makes it very special. See, this isn't a watery, boring juice - Dahlia Noir L'Eau is packed with uplifting yet slightly bitter citrus notes and a generous dose of patchouli. It is, in some ways, transparent, but, at the same time, quite complex too. It could almost be unisex thanks to the heavier notes in its base.

Givenchy have never disappointed me when it's come to fragrances and Dahlia Noir L'Eau is another masterpiece from them. This slightly sour yet fresh fragrance is, similarly to the EDP version, very special. It isn't your typical 'eau fraiche' scent - it lasts for hours on both, skin and clothes (though isn't overpowering at all) and its slight complexity - those sparkling citrus notes paired with patchouli - make it a sensual fragrance indeed.

Givenchy Dahlia Noir L'Eau launches in selected stores on 20 April, though I've just spied on the Harrods' website (here) - prices start from £47.50 (for 50ml EDT).

My top 3 'high street' foundations, ft. Bourjois, Max Factor & Dr Jart

I have been quite loyal when it comes to foundations in the last couple of months. I have discovered three - all from easy-to-access drugstore brands - that do their job so well, I simply haven't wanted to try anything else.
When it comes to foundations, I want products that last throughout the day, balance out the skin and offer enough coverage (so I don't need to use concealer). Here are my three current favourites:

Bourjois' 123 Perfect foundation (£10.99, from Boots) contains three correcting pigments - yellow, mauve and green - and claims to be excellent at concealing dark circles, dull complexion and redness. Bourjois say this product will last on skin up to 16 hours and that it's both, hydrating and mattifying at the same time.
I use 123 Perfect in the lightest shade - 51 - and it is almost ideal for my NC15 complexion. The formula is quite thick and I find it covers all the redness on my cheeks very well (and no, I don't need to use an additional concealer with this). I get medium coverage with this, but am sure this could be built up as the foundation looks extremely natural and sort of melts into skin.
I love 123 Perfect because it gives me a beautiful semi matte finish which isn't flat/dull; it feels quite hydrating too. As for its lasting power - on my skin (and it is quite oily!) this lasts all day. Sure, I powder my T-zone a couple of times throughout the day, but there is never any fading with this product. It is simply a very easy-to-work-with foundation and, I'm sure, it would suit most skin types (and concerns).

Max Factor Face Finity All Day Flawless 3 in 1 foundation (£11.99, from Boots) in Light Ivory (again, the lightest shade) is THE perfect match for my pale skin. This foundation has got an amazing lightweight yet creamy texture that glides onto skin. Max Factor do say this is a primer, concealer and foundation - all three in one bottle - and, do you know what, this formula totally works. I don't need to use a primer with Face Finity nor do I use a concealer. The coverage is, in my opinion, medium-high and the finish a very natural looking matte. Don't be put off by the word 'matte' though - Face Finity will work on most (or even all?) skin types as it isn't drying and its creamy texture feels really hydrating. On those days when I know I'll be very busy, I reach for Face Finity. It keeps me shine free for hours and feels so lightweight on my skin that I don't even feel like I'm wearing any make up.
I have always been a fan of Max Factor's foundation - my favourite used to be their Lasting Performance (worth checking out if your skin's oily!) but I think Face Finity has knocked it off the top spot. A long wearing foundation that doesn't make me feel like I'm wearing a mask (hello, Estee Lauder's Double Wear!) is a rarity and, really, this one's worth checking out just for its amazing suit-all formula.

Dr Jart Water Fuse Beauty Balm SPF25 (£18, from Boots) isn't really a foundation, I know, but hey, I use it like one so thought I should include it in this post. It comes in one shade - which, by the way, looks a bit grey at first, but fear not, it will work on most light-medium complexions - and Dr Jart say it's a "BB Cream which gives a natural bright and glossy application for natural, fresh looking skin which controls sebum production from sweat preventing streaking".
Water Fuse doesn't offer a LOT of coverage, but it's enough to conceal the minor imperfections and the redness I have on my cheeks. It feels sort of glossy and 'shiny' at first and, yes, I was a bit wary of this BB cream simply because I'm so used to mattifying products. I have grown to love it though - the finish is slightly dewy but, at the same time, the product keeps the oilies at bay. I use a light dusting of powder on top of Water Fuse and am good for several hours. It is not often that I praise a 'glow enhancing' base product but Dr Jart's Water Fuse sure is a keeper - its light pleasant texture is a winner and, unless you have problem, acne prone skin, this will be enough to conceal the minor imperfections. I love the fact this gives me a healthy glow too, while, at the same time, making sure my skin doesn't get oily/shiny and I love that I feel like my skin can breathe underneath this BB cream.

So there, three of my current foundation loves. I may stray one day but, for now, I am happy with these.

NEW: Garnier Mineral Invisible Anti White Marks deodorants

I don't write about deodorants a lot - probably not the most exciting subject, eh? - but the fact is that I love a good anti perspirant. I have so many at home and, for some odd reason, keep buying the new ones on an almost weekly basis. I think the right word here would be 'obsessed'. It's not like I collect them, but I simply like to have as many as possible - same as a lot of girls who have tens of red lippies or coral blushers etc. I realise this sounds weird but hey, at least I admit I have a 'problem'. I like deodorants (a lot).
Garnier have just released their new Mineral Invisible Anti White Marks deos and I rate these very highly.

Firstly, these promise to keep you sweat free for 48hrs - always a good thing - and secondly they are, as their name suggests, anti white marks. I have used oh so many deodorants that claim to be 'clear' yet still stain my clothes, similarly, I have used a lot that just don't keep my armpits dry (and I don't think I'm the sweatiest person around).
With these two, I feel confident. I can wear black and white (well, any colour really) and there are never any stains or marks. Plus, they dry very quickly so I can get dressed within seconds and, guess what, they actually do what they claim to do: they keep me sweat free throughout the day (and night). I have a shower every day so can't say if these would actually last 48 hours, but am quite sure they would on a person like myself (i.e I don't sweat THAT much, unless I exercise/run for the Tube/whatever).
I prefer an anti perspirant - bad for the environment and all that, I know, I know - but the roll on works just as great. They both smell fresh and clean - nothing overpowering - and do not irritate the delicate skin. I have had allergies and reactions to a few deos in the past, but Garnier Mineral Invisible promise to let the skin breathe and feel gentle (yet effective) so no problems there at all.

If you fancy trying a new deodorant then I'd definitely recommend Garnier Mineral Invisible Anti White Marks anti perspirant and roll on. Hell, these have impressed me so much, I haven't strayed for a couple of weeks (and that is a rarity!).

Garnier Mineral Invisible Anti White Marks deodorants are available from pharmacies and supermarkets. The anti perspirant (150ml) retails at £2.54 and the roll on at £2.49.

Guerlain La Petite Robe Noire EDT - a captivating cocktail

I raved about Guerlain's La Petite Robe Noire EDP last year (see here) and still love it very much, but there's a new 'little black dress' on the block and this one's probably more suitable for spring/summer. That's right, Guerlain have launched the Eau De Toilette version of their La Petite Robe Noire.

"Guerlain's La Petite Robe Noire eau de toilette, a bouquet of roses, jasmine and orange blossom,  gives off a delicate fragrance. Cherry, apple and blackcurrant take centre stage, refreshed by sparkling green notes. Last but not least, tempting notes of white amber subtly reveal themselves. A swathe of silky musk notes envelops everything in a soft halo."

It comes in a very similar bottle to the EDP one - the colours are lighter but the LBD stays the same. The juice itself is stunning. La Petite Robe Noire Eau De Toilette is a sparkling, cheerful, flirty fragrance. It starts off very fruity - my nose detects cherries, blackcurrant and vanilla - but the opening isn't in any way sickly sweet. Imagine a refreshing cocktail made of fruit and topped with a sprinkling of sugar and vanilla - delicious, no? There is a delicate rose note in La Petite Robe Noire's heart and I can also smell something green - the initial fruitiness fades within an hour or two and the scent becomes fresher and more floral, though it still holds onto the sweetness. God, am I making any sense here at all? I mean, this is the fragrance I have been wearing almost non stop since I got it a few weeks ago, yet I'm finding it so hard to describe. Guerlain's 'little black dress' has got me bewitched!
Let's try and sum this up - La Petite Robe Noire is a scent that goes from being fruity to floral to slightly woody. Yes, the captivating amber note in its base adds softness and darkness to it, though, do not worry, it doesn't become overwhelming or too heavy. This is an easy-to-wear scent - perfect for daytime and just as ideal for a night out. If you like fruity frags, you will love it. In fact, I'm not usually that keen on fruity notes yet something in La Petite Robe Noire has got me totally hooked - I am suspecting it's because this is more complex and more interesting than a lot of other 'fruities', plus the sweetness in this juice is just enough to satisfy a gourmand lover (me!).

Guerlain La Petite Robe Noire EDT is available to buy from Guerlain counters nationwide. Prices start from £50 (50ml).

New skincare additions, ft. Jurlique, Melvita & bareMinerals

I write about various moisturisers, masks and serums quite a lot, but, I have just realised, I haven't shared my newest cleansing products on here. I tend to stick with moisturisers that work well, but like to switch it up when it comes to cleansing and toning my skin. There aren't many face washes that have made me go: 'I need to re-purchase this', though I have a feeling this is about to change. The reason I am featuring these three products today is simple: they are all fabulous and yeah, I'm even thinking of re-purchasing (all three!) when they run out (oh, and one of them isn't really a 'cleansing product' but who cares!).

Jurlique Purely Bright Cleanser (£20, here) has become my 'every morning' face wash. It promises to help brighten skin and minimize appearance of dark spots and skin discoloration, to remove excess makeup and impurities and to gently exfoliate to improve skin tone and texture. I don't have any dark spots (touch wood!) but, as I often complain on here, my skin tends to be quite dull and lifeless in winter. I find Purely Bright to be an excellent gentle cleanser that makes my skin very smooth and revives it quite a bit. The consistency is very creamy and feels hydrating; it leaves skin feeling comfortable - not dry/tight and there isn't any greasy residue either - and looking brighter and less red. I heart Jurlique - their natural products actually work and are excellent at soothing and gently purifying the skin. My only gripe is: the Purely Bright cleanser comes in a 100ml tube and I wish it was a bit bigger, but hey, I shouldn't really complain - this product is a joy to use and actually makes me look forward to washing my face!

Melvita Clarifying Cleansing Foam Floral Bouquet (£15, here) is currently my night time cleanser. I like foams, find them super easy to use, but a lot of them tend to leave my (oily!) skin quite tight. Dislike! However, I know I can trust Melvita - their products are organic and I have never had any issues with them. This cleansing foam is formulated with skin-brightening narcissus, rose and orange blossom floral waters and immortelle extract. It promises to cleanse without stripping the skin of its natural moisture barrier and make it softer and refreshed. I'd say this is a wonderful hydrating foam cleanser - it balances my skin out (while removing all the make up really effectively) and, similarly to Jurlique, softens and evens out the skin tone. I only need two pumps to wash my face - the scent is beautiful (a very mild floral) and the foam (for an organic product) very decent. I really do feel like it removes every trace of my make up yet it doesn't feel drying at all. This one's a must try for those who love a face wash that lathers and works in, literally, seconds.

bareMinerals Intensive Glow Pads Brightening Treatment (£34, here) are a -you guessed it - radiance treatment. These intensive glow pads promise to infuse skin with potent vitamins and minerals and to increase cell turnover to deliver luminosity and noticeably improved skin tone and texture. They are two sided - one smoother and the other one textured - so you can choose which to use (depending on whether you want a more intense experience or not). Now, I have been using these every two or three nights - usually two pads per use - and I am totally diggin' them. Firstly, since I started using this treatment, I haven't had any new spots (again, touch wood!); secondly, my skin feels and looks a lot clearer and healthier (I could get away with just tinted moisturiser as a base!) and thirdly, the textured, exfoliating side of the pad has been doing wonders on my pores and blackheads (they're tighter, less visible). I know I'm talking like it's some treatment for problem skin but honestly, out of all the similar products - I'm talking facial treatment pads - I have tried, these have been the most effective ones.

Body toning with Rodial - Tummy Tuck and Arm Sculpt

I know Rodial is quite a controversial brand (what with their 'outrageous' product names and claims and all that) but I, for one, am a big fan of their stuff. I was sent Rodial's Tummy Tuck a couple of months ago and have been so impressed with it, I've decided that my arms need a bit of toning too and have gone out and bought their Arm Sculpt. There is a lot of hype around Rodial's bodycare products - some love them and some love to hate them (I'd say steep prices are mainly to blame) - and I am totally sold on both creams I am currently using.

Rodial Tummy Tuck (£85) is, according to Rodial themselves, 'a revolutionary formula with micro fibers to help smooth skin in the abdominal area. Tummy Tuck is a power packed formula designed to help improve the appearance of skin around the abdominal area. tummy tuck contains Laracare which helps tone and plump up skin whilst revitalising the overall look and texture.'

One of my main problem areas is my tummy. I can lose weight on my thighs, bum - not a problem - but THAT stomach, it nearly seems - or, seemed - impossible to 'get rid of'. Now, I have been doing a LOT of sit ups daily, I have been following some DVD workouts and have been eating very healthily. I have also been massaging this cream into my tummy every day for nearly two months and, lo and behold, it seems to have done something! Sure, it's not just Tummy Tuck alone, but I feel it really has helped me with toning and firming the skin. I literally feel like I'm losing inches (off my waist) on a weekly basis - yeah, maybe it just feels that way, but the main thing is: my belly is looking better than it has for a long time and this bad boy has played a big part, no doubt.

Rodial Arm Sculpt (£59) is the product I purchased about a month ago (after seeing and feeling how effective Tummy Tuck was/is). Rodial say it is 'a revolutionary formula to moisturise and tone skin in the upper arm area. Containing multi fruit acids, caffeine and coenzymes to moisturise for skin that appears firmed and smoothed.'

Arms are my Number 2 problem area. I gained a bit of weight last year and, funnily enough, it somehow went onto my arms! Again, I have been exercising and it has made a difference, but I felt I needed to use a product that would help 'burn the fat' faster. Enter Arm Sculpt - it feels like a lightweight gel yet moisturises really well. I massage it into my arms twice a day and am really seeing a difference. Firstly, the texture of my skin seems a lot better - the skin on my arms was always red and uneven (no idea why!) and it's actually looking normal now - and secondly, my arms are thinner than they used to be. Yeah yeah, I know, the exercise and healthy eating have an effect, but, again, I believe this product is speeding up the process and deserves credit in my opinion.

Rodial products can be found online here. I am already eyeing up their Body Sculpture for an all over kick ass body firming action. See, I told you I am sold!

How I'm looking after my eye area, ft. Ole Henriksen, Filorga & Nuxe

I have gone eye cream crazy recently. It has hit me, all of a sudden, that I will be 30 this year (nooo!) and that I really need to take good care of the delicate eye area. Sure, I have reviewed a few eye products on here before, but, in the last couple of months I have started hoarding them! Life's been pretty hectic too and I feel like my eyes often look tired, my dark circles are worse than ever before and seems there are a few new fine lines - dislike!
Here are three products I have been reaching for the most recently (and believe it or not, they're all quite different):

Best for cooling and de-puffing - Ole Henriksen Ultimate Lift Eye Gel Roll On (£26, from John Lewis). This roll on is a God send on those mornings when my eyes look particularly puffy (and this happens quite often as I rarely get enough sleep). It calms,soothes, refreshes and revives my eye area and visibly reduces puffiness. It is a revitalising product that acts very quickly,and I'm so grateful to it as it's 'saved' oh so many of my mornings. If your main eye concern is puffiness or you're simply after a reviving, soothing eye gel, then this one's definitely worth a try.

Best for anti-aging - Filorga Optim Eyes Contour (£38, from Marks & Spencer). I call this 'Botox for eyes'. Filorga is a brand that I've recently discovered and oh dear, I want to try every product from them. I reviewed their Hydra Filler moisturiser here, and let me tell you - this eye cream is just as kick ass as the moisturiser. It lifts, smoothes and sort of tightens the eye area. My skin just looks and feels so much firmer after using this cream, plus, thanks to its lifting properties, it also brightens and makes dark circles less visible. It is excellent at making my eyes look more youthful and I just don't get how it manages to almost erase those fine lines that are bothering me. A miracle, I tell ya.

Best for hydration - Nuxe Prodigieux Anti Fatigue Moisturising Eye Cream (£17.50, from Marks & Spencer). This is a lightweight cream that instantly hydrates and softens the eye area. I have raved about a Nuxe eye cream before, but this one's my latest discovery. It is an ideal no-fuss product. It feels gentle, is non greasy, feels mildly reviving and makes the skin under eyes very smooth. This is a perfect product for those whose eye area is sensitive and who want an effective hydrating cream that will get rid of those pesky dehydration lines.

With these three I feel like I'm keeping my 'eye situation' (?!) in check - Ole Henriksen takes care of any puffiness issues, Filorga makes me look younger and erases the lines and Nuxe is a great hydrator and makes my skin so-so smooth.

Liz Earle face make up: the breakdown

I was going through my make up bag a few days ago and noticed something very interesting: seems the only face make up products I have in there are from Liz Earle. It took me by surprise as I do use a variety of powders and foundations, but, for some reason, when on the go, I use Liz Earle. Okay, it is clear what that 'some reason' is: the Liz Earle face make up is simply wonderful and this is why I'm going to introduce each of the four products I've got on Beauty Boudoir.

The Liz Earle Signature Foundation (£21, here) I have mentioned on here before (link). I still love it as much as I did back in November. It is such a lightweight product that covers really well and looks invisible on my face. It makes me look more radiant, more healthy, and its satiny finish seems to work well on my somewhat oily skin. I do need to powder once or twice throughout the day, but this isn't a problem at all. Signature Foundation is probably the only non-mattifying face make up product I have in my collection - I don't do dewy with ease - yet I seem to reach for it more than the other products. If you're after a medium coverage foundation with a very natural, slightly brightening finish (well, who wouldn't want to look natural?) then this is worth checking out.

The Liz Earle Perfect Finish Powder Foundation (£21, here) is the first powder foundation I have tried and liked. I generally just don't get on with them - most feel/are cakey and hard to blend and don't offer as much coverage as I'd like. This one's different - it gives a matte finish that isn't too flat, covers all my imperfections and, again, feels very light on my skin. The lasting power is good, too, and I usually get 5-6 hours out of this before I need to touch up. I use this product on and off and the only reason I don't reach for this on a daily basis is: I am still not totally used to powder foundations. Having said that, when and if I know I'll have a long and busy day, this is my first choice. Its mattifying properties ensure I stay shine free for hours and I have never noticed any significant fading. Fab product for those with oily skin!

The Liz Earle Natural Finish Loose Powder (£19.50, here) is probably my favourite out of the four featured on here today. I don't think I could live without this loose powder anymore! I don't usually get excited by powders - I use them to mattify and fix my make up and, hey, most do their job quite okay. This, however, gives me such long lasting results, looks totally invisible yet evens out and smooths... It is an ideal setting powder that ensures my face will stay shine free for hours. It is also ideal because I can never tell I'm actually wearing powder on top of my foundation - the finish is matte yet luminous. I really really love this and will be re-purchasing it 100%.

I do carry the loose powder with me but, when on the go, it is easier to use a pressed one for touch ups. The Liz Earle Natural Finish Pressed Powder (£19.50, here) is a perfect compact. It does everything a pressed powder should do: mattifies, smooths and evens out skin tone. Like the loose powder, it also feels and looks invisible and its texture is very very fine (think they call it 'micro fine'). I use this powder in the lightest shade - Sheer Porcelain - which is ideal for my NC15 skin.

The only Liz Earle face make up product I haven't got on with is their Sheer Skin Tint. I found it didn't do much for my oily skin and I had to constantly powder and blot my face. But hey, let's not dwell on the negatives! These four mentioned on here today are all amazing and I'd recommend them to absolutely anyone and everyone looking for new base products.