♡ Bumble and Bumble Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner

February 27, 2013



Lets begin with a little story about my hair. Unfortunately I haven't been blessed with my mums thick locks, but instead face the daily nightmare of frizzy, curly and annoyingly thin hair. As much as the frizz can be tamed (and I've come to accept that natural curls can be more of a blessing than a curse), there really isn't a lot I can do about thin hair. 

When i stumbled upon Bumble and Bumble's Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner I really couldn't resist the chance to give my hair a little extra volume. However, regrettably this isn't the miracle product I was hoping it would be. Despite initially leaving my hair quite soft and taming flyaways, I found that after a few washes my hair became quite weighed down, yet also felt more brittle than usual. Instead of disguising split ends they were becoming more noticeable  The conditioner also didn't appear to be rich enough for my hair meaning that I would have to use a ridiculous amount (not ideal considering the price).  In terms of thickening, I really didn't notice any difference. Perhaps on less damaged and frizzy hair it would have a much better result.

Despite the disappointment with this shampoo and conditioner i'm still using it around once every two weeks so I don't waste anything, though I definitely wont be repurchasing.

Has anyone else tried this shampoo and conditioner? Did it work for you?



♡ New Things

February 19, 2013


1. Diptyque Candle
These candles are ridiculously expensive. It took me quite a while to work up the courage to 'splurge' on this, yet in the end I decided I needed at least one diptyque candle in my life. I will most definitely treasure ever second of burning time.

2. Essie Nail Polish
Essie is by far my favorite brand of nail polish - so much so that it might have turned into a slight obsession! Colours are : chinchilly, fiji and beyond cozy. (This is actually my second bottle of fiji, I lost the first one a few months ago and was heartbroken, so it was a necessary purchase...right?!),

3. Real Techniques Core Collection Kit
I'm slowly increasing my brush collection, and mainly with real techniques brushes. Not only are they amazing, but compared to mac brushes they're also pretty affordable.

4. New Shoes
I spotted these ballerina flats whilst browsing the office sale. For only £10 I couldn't say no - finding shoes in my size is so difficult as i'm a tiny size 3! They will be perfect for summer...when it eventually arrives.




♡ Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette

February 10, 2013



I spent a while contemplating whether i really needed this palette, (after all, I do own the other two Naked palettes), though in the end the urge to complete the set took over! This is an almost all matte palette, with just one slightly shimmery highlight shade ('venus'), and despite containing 'full sized' shadows, it's a lot smaller than the previous two Naked palettes. Unlike the others the packaging is more rubberised (quite similar to Nars), and though this does have a tendency to get dirty quickly, i really like the feel of it. It's a lot lighter than the metal casing of the Naked 2 palette, yet much more sturdy than Naked 1. 

I really like the selection of colours as there really is everything you need for a basic everyday look. It's also quite versatile as the black can be used as a liner, the darker brown for eyebrows, and the yellow toned shadow 'foxy' is great for setting concealer. All this combined with the compact packaging makes this palette perfect for travelling, and it's probably this that attracts me most (and that's not just because it means more room for an unnecessary quantity of lipstick and balm...I like choice!).

As with all Urban Decay eye shadow  the quality and longevity of the shadows are amazing and considering the palette is only £20 for six eye shadows, it's really good value as well. Though I usually prefer shimmery eye shadows, I have been really enjoying the subtle matte finish, which I've found is perfect for a more natural everyday look. I've been using my Naked Basics palette virtually everyday over the past few weeks and I have a feeling that this little palette is going to become just as well loved as its older siblings!


What do you think of the Naked Basics palette? Have you tried it yet?



♡ Life Snippets

February 06, 2013


1. My favorite lip balm
2. Face of the day
3. Made a slightly naughty purchase
4. The last of my 'christmas' chocolate
5. The snowy view from my car window
6. Finally bought the Naked Basics Palette
7. Nandos feast
8. Loving my new jumper from Mango
9. My furry friend is a little bit camera shy!

If you would like to follow me on instagram my username is laurathroughthelens.



♡ January Favorites

February 02, 2013


It seems that the older I get, the faster time seems to move. I know everybody says it, but this month really has gone quickly, I can't believe it's February already!

Ridiculously fast ticking clocks aside, January has been a fantastic month for product discoveries and re-discoveries. I would love to say that the healthy eating resolutions have gone just as well, but there was simply too much left over chocolate to get through...

1. Bioderma Crealine H2O
After hearing almost a million rave reviews about this stuff, I decided my life wouldn't quite be complete until I gave it a go. This little potion has worked absolute wonders for me since it arrived on my doorstep. I no longer dread having to take my makeup off at night as it makes the task so much easier and quicker. Most importantly however, this doesn't irritate my super sensitive skin or eyes at all... pretty amazing stuff really. 

 2. Revlon Lip Butter in Pink Truffle
With all the cold weather and snow this month my lips have been pretty dry throughout the day so this lip butter has been perfect. It leaves a lovely wash of colour without gradually drying my lips out. I'm also in love with the colour, Pink Truffle is kind of a 'my lips but better' shade for me so it's just about the easiest thing to wear - especially when i'm in a rush!

 3. Nuxe Rève de Miel
I simply can't say enough good things about this lip balm. It really is the best balm I've ever tried. Ready my full review here.

4. Mac Mineralize Skinfinish in Soft and Gentle
I go through phases where I either love or hate highlighting, but this month I rediscovered this buried at the bottom of my make up stash and just couldn't get enough. I brush some of this onto my cheekbones for a gorgeous touch of shimmer without being too glittery. It also wears quite well throughout the day as even after I touch up with some powder, a subtle sheen is still noticeable.

 5. CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara
I loved this so much I've used up the whole tub. Full review here


As it has been such a cold and snowy month, I've also been addicted to snuggling up with my hot water bottle and a cup of tea. As much as i'm looking forward to spring and summer, I do enjoy the 'cosyness' of winter nights by the fire...


 Hope you have all had a lovely month.