Beauty Review: Why You Should Use Faux Mink Eyelashes

Beauty Review: Why You Should Use Faux Mink Eyelashes

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I've been approached by several eyelash brands who claimed to be "100% cruelty free" despite their products being made from genuine mink fur. Baffled by the notion that something could be made from a wild animal and still be cruelty free, I decided to do some research. The results and ignorance on behalf of the brands, however, are what have finally gave me the push I needed to switch to cruelty free cosmetics. I'm now really pleased to see high-street brands replicating faux mink eyelashes. Here's a look...

I'll admit that I had not been the best when it comes to cruelty free cosmetics in the past and didn't take the time to educate myself. But this is something I feel I want to put right and hopefully inspire some of you to do the same. Whilst I don't condemn others for using non-cruelty free products, I just want to share with you some information which might make you want to rethink what has had to happen for your makeup to reach you.

So I've had mink eyelash brands get in contact with me for a while now but one really stood out to me as it claimed it still be a "100% cruelty free" brand. I emailed one or two of the brands and asked where they came from as I was curious to know. The company maintained that they were "cruelty free" and no animals were killed or tested on in order to make the lashes but I think they honestly don't know themselves what goes on. And technically, they're right. By definition, as long as the product is not tested on animals, it can be legally classed a cruelty free - but does that make it right?

Whilst the minks are not killed for lashes, they are kept in *appalling conditions* - tiny, wire cages on vast mink farms where they are poorly treated before likely being killed for a different product. You only have to google mink farms to see just the conditions these poor creatures are kept in. 1.2 million mink are slaughtered on each of these farms on a yearly basis. All for fake eyelashes, accessories and clothing. The sheer thought of this was enough for me to make the change. But with so many cosmetics brands on the market, how can we tell which ones to use?

'Midnight' false eyelashes by Kiss

A few weeks ago, I was sent these faux mink eyelashes from Kiss Products to trial and I have to say, I'm so pleased that brands are providing alternative cruelty free options such as this. Having seen real mink eyelashes in the flesh and now faux versions, there's very minor differences in terms of the quality looks they create. And what I find most amusing is that I regularly receive compliments on my eyelashes and asked if I'm wearing mink ones. The big differences I can see, however, are the cost (obviously) and the process in which they are made. So why not make the change?

As mentioned in my previous Kiss eyelash review, Kiss have managed to create cruelty-free, salon finished products available to the mass market. Even their regular lashes are super lightweight, easy to apply and feather-like in consistency. They were kind enough to send me two styles to try - Gala* and Midnight* and I have to say that I'm pretty happy with the results. They give great volume and thickness although I did find I had to be a bit patient when applying them as the inner lashes had some trouble sticking. I recommend using a different lash glue to the one provided in the pack for the best results. For the difference in cost and end result, I honestly can't imagine why you would rather use genuine mink fur instead. Having now tried these out, I think that the Noir style would be the best fit for me, personally, for everyday wear.

'Gala' false eyelashes by Kiss

If you're thinking about making the switch to cruelty-free makeup and you're unsure about any of the brands you're using, PETA have a free search you can use to look up any company here. Some obvious brands to avoid include MAC, Avon, Benefit, Bobbi Brown, Max Factor, Maybelline, Rimmel and L'Oreal.  You can view a full list of brands that DO test on animals here.

I myself am still very much learning about the right brands to use and the search page has been really useful. It's definitely something I've been more than happy to invest sometime in, to expand my knowledge. It's also important to remember that just because a brand is cruelty-free doesn't mean that they're more expensive but sometimes it's just knowing where to look.

Some of my favourite cruelty-free brands so far...

*Anastasia Beverly Hills
*Illamasqua
*Too Faced

*Jeffree Star Cosmetics
*NYX Cosmetics

*The BodyShop

*TheBalm

*Eylure Eyelashes
*Kiss Products

*LUSH Cosmetics
*Barry M

So that's it for my beauty rant - have you switched to cruelty free yet? What cruelty free brands are your favourites? As always, I love reading your thoughts so please do leave me lots of lovely ones in the comment section below.

Until next time,

*Disclaimer - The eyelashes featured in this post were gifted to me by Kiss Products. As always, all opinions and beliefs expressed in this post are my own and do not reflect that of the brand.

Beauty Review: 3 Eyelash Favourites from Kiss

Beauty Review: 3 Eyelash Favourites from Kiss

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Quite a few months ago, I attended a Kiss event to celebrate the brand's new brand ambassador, -TOWIE's Jess Wright. Having spent the evening trying out some of their new nails and eyelash styles, I thought I'd share my honest review and some favourite eyelashes from their collections.

As one of the world's largest manufacturers of false nails and lashes, Kiss have managed to create cruelty-free, salon finished products available to the mass market. As someone who religiously wears lashes everyday, I like to think I've become a bit of a pro when it comes to spotting flaws in false lashes but, hand on heart, I think Kiss tick quite a few of my boxes when it comes to desirable qualities. I can honestly say I've bought myself many-a-pair in the past and have been really pleased with them. Their lashes are super lightweight, easy to apply and feather-like in consistency. So that said, here are my three most recommended pairs...

'Looks So Natural' Lash by Kiss, Flirty - If, like me, you like full volume to your lash then Flirty is most likely the one for you. One of my favourite features of this particular set is the tapered ends which gives it that natural looking feather-like finish. Many synthetic lashes will actually have square tips and, although very subtle, this is often what makes them appear very harsh and fake-looking when you apply mascara over the top of them. The tapered edge means that these tips are actually pointed to make them blend in more naturally with your own lashes and appear more like extensions than actual false strips. I think this feature is what first attracted me to the brand and I immediately noticed the difference.

The only con I can think of with this particular set is that I had to use an Eylure glue instead due to the consistency and stickiness of the Kiss glue. The ends of the strips did come away gradually from my inner lid a little on the first wear but were fine once they'd adjusted to the shape of my eye. They do take a bit of patience on first application and I'd recommend using tweezers to hold the strip down at the corners for a few extra seconds. These are actually my everyday types as I love mine to look as thick and full as possible although they may be more intended for going-out for some of you.

'Blooming Lash' by Kiss, Peony - If you're looking for length and depth, I think Peony may be your best bet from the Kiss collection. I think these ones are particular good as day to evening lashes and have Multi-Angle technology to make them appear more natural - more like individual extensions and less like a strip. Personally, I'm not a fan of 'cat eye' lashes and much prefer the shape of these. They also have a multi-layer of lashes which makes them appear thicker whilst still being light-weight and feathery. 

Again, it took a little bit of patience and adjusting to get the ends to stick down on the first wear but once you've broken them in, you can wear these up to 10 times. I'd recommend using Eylure or another brand of glue although the lash itself is really good quality. I personally really like that they don't look obviously synthetic and whenever I wear these I often get asked if they're extensions or mink lashes. CF side note: please do NOT use mink lashes - there is no such thing as cruelty free when it's made from the hair of a wild animal. Think of the conditions the animals are kept in for the sake of a pair of eyelashes. 

'Blooming Lash' by Kiss, Daisy - Similar to Peony, Daisy are part of the Blooming Lash Collection - designed to create the look of natural eyelashes with depth and volume. Each hair is a different length to fan out the eye and give a more striking look. If you tend to go for a more subtle lash then I think Daisy may be the option for you as it is the more feathery and light of the three. These lashes consist of one layer making them more natural looking whilst also giving your natural eyelashes a boost.

I actually found these ones a lot easier to apply correctly first time and they didn't seem to peel up so much at the corners. Not sure if I just got lucky but they seemed to go with the curve of my eyelid a lot better. I've actually worn this particular set to a job interview as they're surprisingly subtle but you can build on them using mascara and varied eye shadow looks.

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So that's it for my Top 3 Fake Eyelashes from Kiss, have you tried their eyelashes or nail products before? Which eyelash brands do you swear by? As always, I love reading your comments so please do leave me lots of lovely ones down below.

Until next time,

*Disclaimer: These products were gifted to me by the brand although I was never asked to do a review or blog post. As usual, all opinions are my own and do not reflect those of Kiss. 

Beauty Review: LUSH Valentine's Day Favourites 2017

Beauty Review: LUSH Valentine's Day Favourites 2017

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The countdown to February 14th has officially begun and so it seemed only right to share yet another seasonal mini LUSH haul. Whether you're single or celebrating with your loved one this year, self-pampering is important so here's some of my favourites for you all to enjoy from this year's Valentine's collection...

Wash That Man Right Out of My Hair Shower Gel, £5.95 per 100g - I'm a sucker for a classic movie reference but what really drew me to this product was it's combination of ingredients. Made from freshly squeezed guava and fig juices, this shower gel combines fragrant and deep cleaning designed to leave you with a natural glow. Also made from lavender, jasmine flower, rose petal blends, jasmine AND ylang ylang, it's no surprise that this shower gel smells incredible. The jasmine and ylang ylang are used to make for a sensual and seductive cleanse whilst the sandalwood provides an uplifting kick. It's probably one of my most favourite of their shower gels to date and if you're a fan of floral scents - you're sure to love it. This also comes in wash sheet form which perfectly leads me on to my next treat...

Kiss Me Quick Wash Card, £2.00 each - I had never seen anything like a wash card before so naturally, you can see my need to investigate. To my knowledge, this is the first shower sheet or wash card I've seen in LUSH since 2015 and are pretty much as you'd expect - shower gel in card form about the size of a business card. Having ordered online, I was a little surprised at just how small this was but they make for excellent travel cosmetics and can also be used as a shampoo for on the go.

Made from fresh apple pulp, the Kiss Me Quick wash card, is made using enzymic oil from lemons and limes for a zesty deep cleanse. To use it, simply lather it up and use it like a sponge all over your body. Rinse off and enjoy soft, clean skin! Much like Wash That Man Right Out of My Hair Shower Gel, it also has ylang ylang for a sweet fragrance. I'd definitely recommend trying these out as they smell amazing - even if they are a bit of a novelty.

Cupid Bath Bomb, £2,95 each - I'm obsessed with anything pink and heart shaped so naturally, this had to go straight in the basket. This particular bomb just makes sense to me and seems to embody the LUSH Valentine's Day collection perfectly. Much like the other items in this mini haul, the Cupid Bath Bomb is designed to be uplifting. Made from bergamot, rose and violet leaf absolute, its essentially a bomb of floral sweetness. Besides smelling amazing and looking adorable, it will make your bath look awesome, unleashing pinky hews - it just screams all things Valentine's Day. One down side is that it is rather small - but perfectly formed. 

Two Hearts Beating as One Bath Melt, £3.95 each - Last but certainly not least is this fabulous bath melt which also doubles up an oil. Also made from ylang ylang, jasmine and rose oils, Two Hearts Beating as One is design to be sensual and uplifting. There's clearly a theme here. Another great feature of this delightfully pretty melt is that it has softening qualities. Made from organic cocoa butter, almond and argan oils, and apricot kernel oil, it acts as an intense body conditioner - leaving your skin silky soft and fresh. Again, this one looks amazing in the bath and would recommend it if you're skin is feeling tired and grey from the cold weather. 

Well, that's it for this year's Valentine's Day LUSH favourites - have you tried any of the products above? What were your favourites from the 2017 collection? As always, I love reading your comment so please do leave me lots of lovely ones down below. Whether you're staying in, going out, spending it friends or a partner - I hope you all have a good one!

Until next time LUSH lovers,

Beauty Review: LUSH Christmas Favourites 2016

Beauty Review: LUSH Christmas Favourites 2016

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With just a few short days remaining, the Christmas countdown has officially begun. It seemed only right to share yet another seasonal mini LUSH haul and share some of my festive favourites. Here's some of my favourites from this year's winter collection...

The Santasaurus Reusable Bubble Bar (£5.95 each) - Inspired by the dinosaur from Mr Bean's nativity scene, the Santasaurus is probably my most favourite from this year's LUSH Christmas collection. The bubble bar itself is made from Brazilian orange oil to refresh and rejuvenate whilst the fruity bergamot oil is added as a natural cleanser. To top it all off, they've added Glycerine for added hydration and Cream of Tartar which is what makes it extra bubbly.

Obviously, the thing that won me over with this product is the fact is clearly shaped like a Christmas dinosaur - enough said. However, I wasn't expecting it to smell as amazing as it does and be a fruity product. It leaves the water feeling smelling great and my skin feeling super soft and hydrated. To active his bubbly goodness, just hold him under your bath tap. Ps, if you're wondering why he's got brown on him - sadly, that's what happens when you put a wet bubble bar in a paper bag. Not great for blogging photos!

LUSH Santa's Belly Shower Jelly (£4.25/100g) - This particular shower jelly made it's first appearance back in 2015 although this year's re-release sees a new addition in the glitter buckle and belt. Made with apple juice, bergamot oil and rose absolute, Santa's Belly makes for an amazing scented shower jelly. Much like many of LUSH's shower jellies, it includes neroli for a deep cleanse as well as Carrageenan seaweed which not only gives it that amazing softness, but it's also is what gives the jelly is amazing wobble and a whole lot of jiggle. 

Again, I really loved the smell of this particular jelly. The rose and apple make for an incredible mix and I've always been much more of a fan of fruitier smells. Usually, I find that the Christmas collection tends to be more spicy or cinnamon based but this combines both a festive theme with a sweet smelling, deep cleaning jelly. 

The Snowie Bubble Bar (£4.25/100g) - We all know that 2016 claimed some pretty incredible legends. Created to honour the late and great David Bowie, Snowie is a shimmery Christmas snowman, complete with the iconic Ziggy Stardust red and blue zig-zag. 

There's definitely a theme emerging in my favourites as this too contains neroli and rose absolute. The tangy grapefruit oil not only smells great but works to uplift and refresh the body. The shimmer does remain on the skin slightly although it's still very subtle and let's face it - we could learn from Bowie and use a little extra glam. To activate this little treat, simply crumble Snowie under running water and watch his magic in motion. 

Last but certainly not least is The Northern Lights Bath Bomb (£3.95 each) - I'll be honest, I originally bought one of these for my good friend, Emily, as part of her Christmas present package but couldn't resist nabbing one for myself too. Originally introduced in 2014, it was pretty exciting to see this baby making a come back at this year's Creative Showcase. 

Similar to the rest of my Christmas favourites, Northern Lights is a fruit and floral based bath bomb made of sensual jasmine absolute, sweet Ylang Ylang oil and citrus. Just like the bubble bars, this bath bomb also has Cream of Tartar which is what allows it to make that amazing reaction when you drop it in the bath. This just oozes amazing colours and is certainly one of the most legendary LUSH bath bombs. 

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Well, that's it for another LUSH Christmas. What products have you tried from the LUSH Christmas and Winter Collections? Have you tried any of my favourites? As always, I love reading your comments so please do leave me lots of lovely ones down below. 

Until next time,