THEY'RE REAL! Benefit Eye Make-Up Bundle

NEW: Kiss Lash Couture Faux Mink Eyelashes

It only seems like recently that I posted a review of some Kiss lashes but here we are again with a brand new collection. To be fair, Kiss are joint number one on my list of favourite false eyelash brands (alongside Eylure), and my love for them is both well-justified and nostalgic as their Iconic lashes were the first pair of falsies that ever made me feel confident with trichotillomania (way back, aged 15!). Their lashes are always so comfortable to wear and often display a combination of all the things I look for in order to cover my own lack of eyelashes. From the perfect length, a super-natural multi-angle feature as seen in their new Blooming Lash range, to the subtle overlapping of lashes near the base to hide any gaps, their lashes are often the first ones I reach for if I need a little confidence boost. Although their new faux mink collection isn't as natural-looking as some others I've featured in the past, these are still gorgeous lashes that make the perfect pair to apply for a night out.

My Current Winter Handbag Essentials

I've never really done the whole 'monthly empties' or 'handbag must-haves' before on this blog, but that's usually because nothing tends to change that frequently in my routine. I have an army of trusted products that I always have to hand which may change, say, every season. Although light face mists and boring-but-necessary deodorants sit in my handbag during summer, when the colder months come swooping in my beauty routine does get a bit of a shake-up. Although the core perfumes and balms remain, a few products get adapted to my skin's winter needs. Heavy duty lip saviours and products that keep my skin hydrated help banish the dryness which can often seep in during chillier times, so as my handbag products get their seasonal shake-up, I thought I'd share what I'm turning to on a daily basis. 

Step Away From The Screen! Easing Tired Eyes With Optrex Warming Eye Masks

Our jobs, hobbies and down-time; there’s usually one thing that links all of these nowadays and that is looking at some form of screen. I know that staring at a computer screen all day for my job, blogging on my laptop when I get in and then watching a bit of TV for relaxation is really taking its toll on my eyes. It’s incredible to think just how important screen-based technology is to us nowadays- we are permanently glued to our smartphones in an attempt to be constantly connected. Strain on your eyes and headaches come as an unfortunate side effect, but Optrex have launched these specialised warming eye masks to not only relieve tired eyes, but provide you with ten minutes of relaxation away from your most-loved device.

My Favourite Gentle Eye Make-up Removers (That Are Great For Trichotillomania Sufferers)

Pulling your own hair out sucks. What sucks even more is the horrible red, sore irritation you feel around your eyes after a spree and, well, just generally. Constantly picking around your eyelid and leaving your eyes exposed isn't the best for your eye health, leaving your peepers open to infections, soreness and getting things in your eye (which can often scratch and irritate further!). With our eyes already being delicate organs, this added strain means that we need to take extra good care of them. Wearing eye make-up can often be a great way of covering damage and boosting confidence, but when it gets to the end of the day, the products you use to remove the beauty products are ever-more important. Here are a few of my favourite, gentle eye make-up removers that I have found amazing at wiping away the eyeliner whilst minimising irritation on sensitive eyes.

Well Gel! My New Favourite Eyeliner From Elizabeth Arden (Plus The Cutest Brush EVER!)

Last month, as a lovely Christmas present, my mum and I flew to Jersey for a short, Channel Island holiday. Aside from visiting the zoo and spa, it's needless to say we spent most of our time shopping. Filled with department stores, we wondered in and out swooning at all the beauty products, before stumbling across Feel Unique on St Helier high street. We had found heaven. We rummaged through all of the Christmas bargains and deals, before I glimpsed this reduced pot of gorgeousness in the Elizabeth Arden clearance section. It was the last one left, it was down to a ridiculous price, I knew I had to have it. It is the best eyeliner I have ever used.

Mastering The Cat Flick With Soap and Glory's Supercat Eyeliner

I'm quite boring with my make-up routine. It always features a dewy base, a dash of blush, and a bold cat flick, and has been this way for a good few years. As I moved into Sixth Form and we were allowed the privilege of wearing make-up, I discovered that bold eyeliner was a great way of disguising my lack of lashes; the flick at the end drawing attention away from my actual lash line. Since, I've been intent on finding the Mr Right of eyeliner to give me the perfect winged look. Using the Collection Fast Stroke one for years, my cousin recommended the Soap and Glory Supercat eyeliner...so here it is!

Lift, Volume, Definition: The New Benefit Roller Lash Mascara

I don't know about you, but I buy into every beauty hype going. So, when Elle announced they would be giving a way a world-exclusive sample of the new Benefit Roller Lash mascara with this month's edition, guess which magazine I ran off to buy? I usually find Benefit products a bit inconsistent in their quality; some I love (They're Real mascara, Porefessional, Benetints), others I simply can't get along with no matter how hard I try (They're Real eyeliner). As a general rule, I've found their mascaras to be pretty ace, and this newbie is probably the best of the bunch.

Max Factor CC Stick: Colour Correction for Dark Circles

Whether it's one too many nights out, staying up late to finish work, or the general stresses of everyday life, you'd be lucky if you didn't suffer from the occasional dark circle. Although I wish they were, the bags under my eyes are definitely not Chanel, and I would rather they didn't exist so prominently. Dullness around your under eye area is one of the most tell-tale signs of stress and fatigue, and can age even the most youthful skin. While concealer can do a pretty good job at hiding it, CC (colour correction) products can be used to add that extra little bit of brightness.