28.6.14

Food // 2 ingredient Virgin Pina Colada Lollies

If you like Pina Coladas,and getting caught in the rain then today is probably quite a good day for you as we seem to have had all four seasons the past couple of days! I was after something to relieve my wisdom tooth pain (why do we even have these?) that still tastes good.I mean clove oil is working well, but it's no dessert.I decided to go with a simple lolly recipe made with pineapple which is good for reducing inflammation,and coconut milk which contains an antiviral and antibacterial compound called monolaurin.







I can't get over how adorable this lolly molds from Poundland are,when I was a child I remember those ones with the little straw so you could sip the juice,ahh the 90's.These are really simple to make,and as I bought the cheapest ingredients they only work out at around 49p per lolly,which is much cheaper than a Magnum.I know they don't look the most appetising right now,but neither do kebabs and they're fricking gorgeous.Trust me,they're going to taste awesome.I love everything tropical,so I'm going to pretend I'm in the Caribbean and not overcast Devon.Here's a quick how-to on how I made them.





For 6 lollies you'll need

carton Pineapple juice
pouch of coconut milk

I filled each mold with a mixture of half pineapple juice and half of the coconut milk,making sure to leave a little gap at the top so that it doesn't overflow when it freezes.Coconut milk can have lumps of coconut cream in it,but you can just stir this in or leave it for some texture.texture. I've found these take around 6 hours to fully freeze and then you're good to go.I'm sure it would taste really good with some pineapple or other fruit chunks in there too.








Here's the finished result! I'm really happy with how they turned out,although I'm still partial to a Zap lolly now and again.


What ice lollies are you enjoying this Summer?







26.6.14

Beauty // Timeless Truth Face Masks review *

There's nothing nicer than the feel of a face mask doing it's magic and wiping away the days make up and stress.That's why I'm very happy to share with you these Timeless Truth masks that I was sent to review.I've been trying to include more masks in my beauty routine because I'm lazy,and I love anything that I don't have to fuss over and it means I can watch Netflix at the same time!



























I love that they come with a little booklet which details all the information about the masks they offer,they've definitely thought this through! These sheet masks come in individual pouches and retail on thebeautymask anywhere from £4.95 to £7.65 each.This seems a little pricey,but they do focus on using high quality ingredients to create the "ultimate mask experience"

Miracle Rejuvenation Mask  £6.45 *





I thought I'd start with the mask that I enjoyed the most,which is targeted towards dry,ageing or  pigmented skin.This is the first mask I've used that has really clever ear hooks to allow the mask to stay in place-genius! As with all the masks,it's heavily saturated with serum that sinks into the sink easily and feels very nourishing.It contains a wide range of useful ingredients including m-Tranexamic acid to help fight inflammation,Argireline to reduce lines and Salicylic Acid,which I love as it's a really effective spot fighter and manages to reduce my pores.I kept this on for 15 minutes before removing it and my skin felt wonderful afterwards and very "glowy".I think this would be a great mask to prep your skin for Summer.

Herbal Rejuvenation Imortelle Mask £4.95 *























I love anything that uses Vitamin E as it works wonders on healing skin and keeping it in good condition.This not only contains Vitamin E, but also incorporates herbal essences and Immortelle Extract to deliver a big moisture hit to ageing and/or dry skin. Apparently, the Immortelle flower is a very versatile plant whose extract can help calm and revive tired skin,although you won't find any in your garden as they're a Mediterranean flower,it's great to have the wonderful benefits of this flower in a handy and easy to use mask.The formula feels very hydrating and leaves my skin feeling really plump and even,so much so that I didn't even wear make up afterwards.I would definitely recommend this mask if you need to give your skin a pick me up,or your suffer from dry,irritated skin.

Bio Cellulose EGF Mask £7.65 *

























Honestly,I don't think I'd ever get botox in the future,as tempting as it may be I'd be worried something would go wrong.Saying that, I'm always looking for lotions and potions to help my skin stay looking fresh and renewed,that's why I really enjoyed using this EGF Bio Cellulose Mask which is full of ingredients to aid in collagen production and reduce lines.Hylauronic acid helps the skin hold onto water which means a more youthful and firm complexion, and ECF or "Epidermal Growth Factor" repairs cells and supports their growth.It all sounds very sciency but it really does work to even and soften all of my problem areas.I also noticed that my t-zone wasn't as shiny and my foundation glided on more smoothly than before.

Tip: After removing the mask,I rubbed the sheet over my skin so that any excess serum soaked into my skin and it doubled up as a massage too-bonus!


I've really enjoyed using these masks,I think they'd be great before an event,or just to have a relaxing night in.They're really easy to use and they definitely feel like they have done my skin the world of good.I thought i'd document some of my "ultimate mask experience" with selfies (of course)





I'm really happy with the results,I'm make up free in the last photo,and my skin hasn't felt this good in ages.I suffer with temperamental combination skin that can get irritated quickly,but you wouldn't know! I'm going to try and keep my skin in this condition by drinking lots of water and not relying on make up wipes at the end of the day (bad blogger).Watch this space!


Are face masks a regular part of your beauty routine?











24.6.14

Lifestyle // Tuesday Treasures

Hey guys, I hope you're having a lovely Tuesday!

I've read so many awesome posts with people sharing their favourite picks of the Internet,so I'd thought I'd share mine with you all.If you're a fan of cute animals,food and pretty photographs then why not sit down and have a cuppa?


source]

This print is perfect for any Orange is the new black fans!


This recipe for Lavender Lemonade sounds like the perfect drink for Summer!

[source]

Japan has so many wonderfully cute snacks. These Caramel Pudding flavoured Kit Kats can be baked in the oven for a creme brulee style dessert.


This beautiful secluded Moonbeam Yurt in Okehampton looks so cosy and a change from bog standard hotels.You even get use of the hot tub for free! This is actually pretty close to home for me,so I think I'll have to give hubby a hint.


Can you believe that this photograph was taken with a smartphone? It's so crisp and beautiful.

source]

This is just the hair colour I'd want if I didn't work in retail and was feeling brave!


I don't think I've ever heard more beautiful words than "Starbucks Salted Caramel Mocha Latte Cupcakes".

































                                                                              [source]

These cute cat flats are wonderful Charlotte Olympia Kitty flats lookalikes and they're only £7.05!




























                                                                               [source]

This LED colour changing shower head would make early morning starts 100 times more fun!

There's more!

Kill time with these 35 Surprisingly Useful Websites you never knew you needed
I think "All about that bass" is going to be a Summer body positivity anthem
This adorable fox thinks he's a dog
These beautiful British beaches will make you think you're abroad
"Essential items" aren't taxed but there's a 5% tax on sanitary products,sign this petition to get the government to stop taxing periods.
I've been watching Miss Representation which is a really eye opening film about Women in society and leadership roles.
I'm sure we can all relate to the 10 emotions we all experience in Primark
I've been checking my Ask.fm so if you have any questions or advice that needs answering,pop over and it will feature in my Sunday Support series.

Catch up with me on Twitter & Bloglovin <3














22.6.14

Recovery // Sunday Support Series #1




So today marks the first post in my Sunday Support series where I answer any questions or queries that people have given me over on my Ask.fm. Ignoring the question that I got enquiring about wedgies,I got a couple of questions on body image and eating disorders that I've taken the time to answer.I think lots of people feel the same too,so hopefully lots of people can draw something from the answers.

Q1. What books/websites/tools did you find helpful while recovering from your eating disorder?

Youreatopia

The Youreatopia forums and resources really helped me focus on my recovery and regain both my physical and mental health.In today's diet culture and fatphobic society,recovering from eating disorders can be so draining and feel near impossible. Youreatopia offers clear and easy to understand scientific information regarding recovery,weight and mental health.The website (which has been awarded "top 50 emotional eating websites 2013") advocates eating your minimum calorie intake which may be 2500+ and explains how everyone has
their own set point weight range that your body likes to be in.It's very hard to get your head around,but I've been maintaining my optimal weight on about 3000 calories and food doesn't even cross my mind anymore (of course there are bad times) I would really recommend checking it out here.It's basically all about learning to trust yourself and your body.

The Doctor

If you are struggling with an eating disorder of any kind,no matter what your size or age is,or how long you've had it for,then I'd strongly recommend visiting your Doctor.They can monitor your health and refer you to any therapy or other groups that you might feel you need.



Q2.I've never liked myself,but lately it's developed into a serious problem.I feel stressed and anxious about getting dressed everyday, and I worry how I look before I leave the house.It's making me not able to enjoy much anyway because I feel so ugly.Do you know anyway I could try and change this? xx

I completely understand where you are coming from as this is something that I still struggle with too,so just know that you're not alone.What has helped me is realising that you can never see yourself as what you truly are.A mirror gives a reflected image and photographs only give you a snapshot in time,so you will never see what other people see.Wearing comfortable clothing in the right size can go a long way into improving your mood and making you feel more able to carry out everyday tasks.There's nothing worse than wearing something too tight and then fixating on your body all day. I've cut out the size tags before as well if I found that the number was bothering me.Finally, please remember that your size,shape and appearance have no bearing on who you are.You are a whole person with feeling,thoughts and experiences that clothes sizes and the scales are never going to measure.

I think that Ask.fm is a good way to get your questions to me as some people don't feel comfortable with people knowing their name and I'm definitely going to include this a regular feature.feature. I've really enjoyed answering your questions and I would love more for next week! I'm happy to talk about anything but the areas that I know most about personally are eating disorders,bullying,family concerns,body image and general mental health.

I look forward to receiving more questions and remember there's no problem too big or small that I wouldn't like to help you with :)












21.6.14

Lifestyle // Explore my hometown

It's no secret that I love the Internet and normally every evening you can find me behind my screen pretend shopping and on Twitter,but recently I've been feeling a bit uninspired and stuck in one long brain freeze.I thought this would be a good time to get out in the glourious sunshine we've been having and take a moment to refresh my mind.When I'm stuck with a foggy brain I love to go to Totnes which is the town I grew up around,it's really popular with grockles (or tourists depending on where you're from!) this time of year and who can blame them?

beautiful scenery devon

























Walking along the River Dart on Vire Island has to be one of the most relaxing ways to spend your day.I love watching the sun sparkle on the water and it's full of wildlife,including a few seagulls who will attempt to steal your ice cream.Vire Island is right in the centre of town too so it's a great place to go for a stroll after some shopping or a meal out.

If you love being on the water then Totnes is definitely for you,there's always someone sailing a boat or doing water sports.I even saw someone on what looked like a surfboard,standing up and using an oar to push themselves along! Does anyone know what that's called? It looks really fun,although I'm a bit of a scaredy cat when it comes to the River.There's an old legend around here, "Dart Dart,cruel Dart,every year thou claim'st a heart" but I would take that with a pinch of salt seeing as there's supposed to be Pixies on Dartmoor.


























I always miss green fields when I go away,I spent so much of my childhood running around and watching the farm animals.It's so green and fresh and I can't think of a better view on a summer's day.












Whenever Totnes is in the news it gets portrayed as a hippy town and there's definitely a bit of that,we even have our own currency to promote local businesses, and the high street has quite a few quirky shops.This is the view up the main street,which is always filled with people trying to get photos of the clock arch as it's a bit of a landmark so I thought I'd get a picture in.I definitely think there is something for everyone here though,if you're into history and architecture I would definitely recommend popping down.It's a Anglo-Saxon town full of beautiful old buildings and lovely places to eat,I think it's a really underrated part of the country!


Have you ever visited? What did you think?

















18.6.14

Poundland bargains // Chit Chat lash building mascara review

Please say that I'm not the only one that's sucked in by products and all of their fancy words? Anything that promises to perfect and polish my face I'm drawn to like a moth to a flame! I'd just finished my old mascara and I was looking for something more budget friendly that offered a little something extra,and that's when I saw this Chit Chat lash building mascara in Poundland.It was a sign that I had to pick it up,and for only a pound you can't really go wrong!

Poundland chit chat lash building mascara

















Poundland budget lash building mascara
I like the packaging,it's eye catching and simple which is nice as some budget make up can look a bit flimsy and cheap. The only gripe I have is that the writing rubs off almost instantly,but I'm not applying that to my lashes so I'm not too concerned.I really like the wand, it's easy to use and really gets into the hard to reach areas to give a bit of extra volume. I've found that it can take a couple of dips to ensure that you've got enough mascara on the wand,but that could just be me,I'm a bit cack handed you see.Is it just me or does this remind you of Maybelline's The Falsies mascara?

Before

poundland mascara review









After

poundland mascara results
The wand really separates and coats my lashes leaving them looking boosted yet still comfortable,it doesn't feel clumpy or irritating on my lashes,which was a concern for me being a cheaper product.It really works well at defining my eyelashes and making them pop.As for it's claims of lash building,my lashes do seem plumper and more fluttery (scientific word) so I'm sold. I've tried quite a few mascaras both budget and high end and I'd say this was as good as any.I think this would be a great buy to throw into your suitcase if you were going on holiday because it's cheaply replaced! I finished off my eye look with a quick swipe of MUA liquid eye liner (10/10 would recommend) in the morning and there was no flaking to be seen all day.I don't know how they make this product for only £1,  it seems to stay on all day but it's very easy to remove in the evening.If you're after a new mascara on a budget I'd definitely go and grab one of these and see how you get on!

What mascara are you loving at the moment?











15.6.14

Lifestyle // Sunday support series






"We can't help everyone,but everyone can help someone" -Ronald Reagan

For as long as I can remember I've always been the "Agony Aunt" of the group.I love nothing more than sitting down with a cup of tea and listening to other people's problems.I think there's something very therapeutic and refreshing about taking the time to help people and support them in finding some positive solutions.Having suffered from mental health problems,I know how having someone can talk to can make all the difference.That's why I'm starting the Sunday support series, so that I can offer my advice and support to you all.I'm not a therapist and I if you're going through some rough times I would suggest going to visit your Doctor but I'd love to be a listening ear to anyone who needs it.

I've set up an ask.fm account which you can visit here and ask me questions anonymously.I will then spend the week reading them and publish a post with all my answers every Sunday.Please don't feel embarrassed or awkward when sharing your problems,I'm sure that I've either experienced them myself or heard it all before.Of course this will be completely anonymous unless you want to to state your name,it's all up to you.Any abusive or threatening messages will be deleted,but we already  know not to feed the trolls don't we? If you would like to chat to me privately,then please feel free to email me at whimsicalmrsw@outlook.com,anything that is sent to my private email will not be published.

I'm really excited to be able to be there for you all as you've all been so wonderful and supportive to me,I will make sure to answer your problems as fully as possible.I hope this works out and that it will become a regular feature over here.

What do you think?

















14.6.14

Recovery // How to handle diet talk




Did you know that research suggests that women can spend 18.9 years of their lives on diets? (source) So it's only inevitable that eventually someone is going to tell you about their latest weight loss plan in great detail.I think it's become so ingrained in our society now that it's considered normal and healthy to diet.Talking about weight loss has become a way for people to bond,and nothing unites people faster than a shared struggle.However as a person in recovery,I could do without hearing about how "bad" you were when you ate that cupcake.Of course I don't blame people for talking about their diets,they offer the exciting prospect that when you finish them you'll be thin and gorgeous,it doesn't work like that but I have no room to talk! I'm trying to learn that my life should be about exploring opportunities and ideas and not getting caught up in what other's are doing.I completely support people's right to do what they want with their own bodies and lives,but I'm talking about how to avoid and handle the often non stop chatter surrounding it.

1. Remove yourself from the situation

I know this isn't always possible,but if you're able to it's a good idea to try and move away from certain conversations.Protecting your mental health and/or recovery is more important,and if you feel like certain people or discussions are affecting that then some time by yourself might be helpful.I try to find a hobby to pass some time until I feel more comfortable,blogging is such a great way to vent! Other ideas might be listening to music,tidying up or watching cat videos on Youtube (would recommend.)

2. Change the subject

If you're not able to go somewhere else,subtly changing the conversation to another subject can really help shift things towards a more positive direction.For example if someone says "urgh I shouldn't have eaten that burger at McDonald's,I'm so fat" you could say "I thought it looked quite nice,did you see (insert name) there? I find that if you mention another aspect of their evening/outfit/food or whatever they're talking about the diet talk often ends there.

3. Be understanding

These days talking about dieting and weight loss is as common as discussing the weather,and you can see why in today's society.The constant sexualisation and objectification of women in adverts can really distort what both sexes think is the right way for a body to look.Of course,all sorts of mental health problems and/or unhealthy behaviour can come from not being able to match up to these standards.Diet propaganda is displayed on our TV's and magazines 24/7 and there's never a break from it,so you can understand why some people may be swept away with the idea that they too can be the "perfect ideal".Whether or not you agree with their diet,you probably know what it's like to feel insecure so a quick "I'm always here if you need to talk" might go a long way.

4. Talk to them

Sometimes people can be oblivious to what they're saying and how it can affect other people,it's quite easy for people to get wrapped up in their little bubble! If it's really getting to you,having a quick word with them could make all the difference.Something like "I'm trying to change my mindset and learn to accept my body without dieting,I'd really appreciate it if you didn't mention your diet all the time." Making sure that you're honest and open with them is definitely the right way to go,seeing as that's what all good friendships should be based on!

I've found these ways of dealing with diet talk really effective,obviously you can't censor people and their going to say what they want to,but that doesn't mean you can't say how you feel or have to be in a negative atmosphere.



Do you have any tips to deal with diet talk?





































11.6.14

South West Blog Social // What I learnt

I had such an amazing time at the South West Blog Social last Saturday,so good in fact that I actually forgot to take many photographs (I'm such a bad blogger haha) I'm so happy that this part of the world is holding such great events,and it was really inspiring to hear wonderful advice on everything from getting published to learning how to accept advertising.It was held at Oddfellows which is a very funky looking "gastropub"just off the beaten track.

























It was great to be able to actually meet bloggers in person, it felt quite surreal actually! I managed to find a band of lifestyle bloggers to eat Pizza with and chat about all things blog related.It felt so nice to be able to talk about Twitter chats and post ideas without people looking at me like I have a third eye!




























If you're ever in Exeter looking for somewhere to eat or go for a quick drink,I'd definitely recommend Oddfellows. They even cater to the non drinkers amongst us,this mocktail was absolutely gorgeous! It came in a jar too,so it's perfect for Instagram addicts.I'll let the four cheese and chutney pizza speak for itself, I think it was bigger than my head! Not only did I leave with a full stomach, but my head was buzzing with ideas and the wonderful feeling that I'm doing the right thing by following my passion.I think this was a great opportunity to learn more about the world of blogging,and I left with lots of new information.Here's what I took from the day;

1. There's always something to learn

Blogging is a hobby that you can take down many different avenues and there's always something new to learn. I've seen people's amazing photographs from the event, and I'm going to try and improve my photography skills. I've only got a Nikon Coolpix, but I've read some great tutorials online on how to get your pictures up to scratch.

2.Bloggers are as unique and different as their blogs

It was wonderful to see such a variety of people of all ages and from all walks of life.It makes me so happy to think that I'm part of a community that is so accessible and friendly.I was really inspired by all of the interesting and open stories and ideas that were bouncing around the room.


3.It pays to challenge yourself

Honestly,I was really nervous on the train ride over,but I figured I should try to get myself out there and promote what I love and enjoy.Initially I felt quite uncomfortable,but I'm glad I stayed because I met so many wonderful people!

4. Every day is a great opportunity

Saturday made me realise that I should really push myself to seize every opportunity that comes my way. Everyday is an opportunity to ask questions and find inspiration, it might not always come straight away but sometimes a fresh outlook can make all the difference.

5 People can be so generous

This event was kindly organised by Jodie Dewberry over at http://alajode.com/ and supported by many sponsors who provided wonderful goodie bags for us (future post coming!) It must have taken so much hard work and dedication to get this to run without a hitch! Also,I really admire the speakers who offered such wonderful advice and happily answered any questions we had!

I'm definitely going to try to attend as many events as I can,hopefully there will be lots more going on in Devon in the future.It's definitely been an eye opening and fun day,I really hope that the South West Blog Social runs for many more years to come!



Have you been to any blogger events before? Did you enjoy it?



























9.6.14

Music // Ultimate Blogger's Playlist

source





For the past couple of days I've had terrible writer's block,it's so frustrating when all the thoughts are there but you can't get them into any sort of order.In cases like this I like to get a playlist together that puts me in a good mood and inspires me to get writing! I must have been living under a rock because I've only recently discovered Spotify,but I'm really enjoying using it as a way to boost my motivation and discover new music.


The Warm Up

I like to set up an area where I can blog comfortably,which often includes many cushions and a big mug of tea! I've put together some songs that have a wonderful mix of catchy and feelgood lyrics that should help you to get motivated to produce your best content yet! Who could resist singing to Mr Blue Sky? It's the perfect song for Summer.I'd really recommend Noah and The Whale too if you're into indie folk, fans of Bombay Bicycle Club or Mumford and Sons,this would be a great band to check out.





The Main Event

By this point you've probably written a little bit,but your concentration might begin to flag! This is the time that I might have a little break,but if I'm feeling productive I often power through with some tracks that help keep me going.These songs are great for inspiring your ideas and emotions to get together and do some writing.I've heard Pharrell William's "Happy" a million times already and I still love it,I should really watch Despicable Me! Ben Howard has some lovely music too,he also used to live in my town and go to the same secondary school as me,although not at the same time sadly!




The Wind Down

Writing can be really draining when you put your all into creating something you love.I think it's a great idea to relax with some easy listening music and take some time to rest your brain.I've only just discovered the first song which is a cellist group cover of Coldplay's clocks and it's so beautiful! Also, you can never go wrong with some Jack Johnson to mellow you out.




I've spent a lovely evening arranging my playlists.It definitely appeals to the side of me that loves organising,I should work in an office.Of course,all of the songs belongs to their respective artists,I can't sing for toffee and I'm no Beyonce! I hope you enjoy them,let me know if you'd like me to create any more,I'm thinking of starting a regular music feature.


What songs are you enjoying at the moment? Do you use Spotify?

































6.6.14

Fashion // Budget Jewellery picks*

Lately I've been trying to get rid of all of the clothes I've acquired over the years that I don't wear anymore (I'm looking at you circle belt from 2005!), in the hopes of trying to create a more classic neutral wardrobe that's easy to style.I'm not the sort of person that has the patience to faff around with a complicated look,but I enjoy adding extra touches to make my outfit feel a bit special.I'm always looking for new accessories to add my collection because they're a cheap way of updating my outfit,and there's something about a beautiful piece of jewellery that brings a smile to my face! I was lucky enough to receive these items from Black & White boutique to review and I'm really excited to share them with you.








I always struggle with bracelets and watches because of my child sized hands (I lose out when sharing popcorn!) but this beautiful watch is so comfortable and can be adjusted to fit perfectly.There are so many designs to choose,from anchors to aztec prints and they're all under £20,which considering the price of some watches is very reasonable.This one caught my eye because it reminds me of candy canes,I love the subtle pastel design, and I think it will become a much loved piece! It's from their elegance range and it's currently on sale for £14.99.











These stackable bracelets have a really lovely boho feel to them,they'd be a perfect accessory for a flowing summer skirt and beachy hair.They're really easy to wear, and I love that you can layer them up and restyle them depending on your outfit.I've bought similar bracelets like this off Ebay,and although they were cheap,they felt very flimsy and like they could break in any second! These are really sturdy with easy to use clasps,and they feel really well made.I love the vivid purple colour and the little charms are so cute.We've got an anchor,an owl and and an infinity symbol,all of which seem like very popular prints this Summer (especially infinity symbols, which seemed to come out of nowhere!) This one is part of their Integrity range and is £12.99



I'm always looking for companies that sell affordable products,but with that it does make me think about their morals and ethics.Luckily,Black and White Boutique are making every effort to ensure that their products are ethical and support the Fair Trade industry.I love the names of their pieces too,"equality","elegance" and "integrity" to name but a few,I feel like every aspect of their creations was given a lot of thought.I was blown away by the shipping prices, delivery to the UK is only £1.50 and outside of Europe it's £3.65,so if you're like me and are always adding things to the basket only to delete when you realise shipping is £5+ then I'd head over to their site and see if there's anything that takes your fancy!


What jewellery are you loving right now?























































4.6.14

Beauty // Budget problem skin favourites

My skin changes from one day to the next,so I'm never sure what I'm going to wake up to! In the likely event that a few spots will have appeared,I like to keep a couple of fail-safe products in my collection to help clear my skin gently and quickly. I've been using these for a while now and I'm really pleased with how they've worked for my skin.There are so many expensive washes for acne prone faces out there,but I think if you look around you can find products to suit any budget,especially now that cheaper stores are everywhere.I managed to pick these up from the 99p store whilst browsing around town.








I was drawn to this Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash because I love the smell of Pink Grapefruit,it's so energising and zesty which is perfect a refreshing morning wake up.I was concerned that it might leave my skin feeling tight and dry because it's acidic,but it has a gentle gel formulation which doesn't leave any residue or affect my skin.If you suffer with enlarged pores and spots around the t-zone like I often do, I'd really recommend this because since using it I've found that the area is much smoother and free from breakouts.It contains Salicylic acid which is effective at reducing inflammation and works to keep pores free from the build up that can encourage acne.I like to use a hot washcloth to open up my pores before applying as I think it helps it soak into my skin, followed by a cold blast of water afterwards to close my pores (it definitely wakes me up too!) Apparently, it's boosted by "MicroClear" technology,but I'm not too sure if that makes a difference as it sounds like one of those skincare buzzwords to me! Words aside,I'm really enjoying using this wash and I've seen a good improvement in my skin tone and texture.




In my lifetime I think I've had about every kind of acne you could imagine,but none as bad as the dreaded "bacne" or back acne.Although it's calmed down now that I'm in my twenties,I'm still prone to getting sore under the skin spots on the top of my back.You know the kind that you can't pop and never seem to leave? Well I'm intending to wear cute tops this Summer, so I had been looking for a body wash that would leave my skin acne free and smelling good.That's where this T-zone Revitalising Body Wash comes in! I haven't used T-zone products since I was a teenager,but I've been pleasantly surprised by how good they still are.You only need to use a 50p sized blob as it lathers up really well and it fills the bathroom with a fresh peppermint scent.It also contains tea tree oil which is well known for being an antiseptic and helping to prevent breakouts.I like to apply this to a bath lily (or bath poof, whatever you want to call it!) and really work the product into my skin,it feels so soft and clean afterwards.afterwards. I've been using this  every morning for just over two weeks and I've noticed that the areas normally affected are much less inflamed and sore,it's surprising what a difference it's made to how I feel about myself.

Although there's nothing wrong with buying high end brands,if you often walk past budget stores,I'd really suggest going in and seeing what they have to offer. I've noticed that many pound shops have the same products,but they're often a foreign version,so if you are a brand lover you might find one of your favourites in there.These products are really working well for me,so I'd definitely suggest you pop in to the 99p store and have a look.


What do you use for breakouts? Does the toothpaste trick really work?