January Favorites ◊ 2016

It’s time for monthly favorites again! Some of these could easily be part of a new-in post, but I haven’t had time to do one so I’ll just mention those that were used the most in the past few weeks here. I’m a huge fan of Real Techniques brushes and you can imagine that I’m obsessed with my new Expert Face Brush. I’m using this one for applying foundation now and it is much better than the stippling brush I used before. The foundation looks so natural – it’s easier to achieve an even finish and there are no lines left as they sometimes were with the previous brush. Next is the Lush hand and body lotion Sympathy for the Skin, one of the best multi-purpose lotions yet. I wrote an extended post about some of my recent Lush buys here and dedicated a huge part to this little gem at the end. As far as I know, it is not available at their store at the moment, but you can still get it on their website – this is definitely a treat every Lush&vanilla lover should get!

Another perfect beauty product is the Natura Siberica Energizing Facial Mask that my best friend actually got me for Christmas, she knows me (and my obsession for face masks) so well! Siberian Pine oil soothes and moisturizes the skin, Siberian Ginseng is meant to awaken and revitalize it, whereas Artic Ashberry gives a fresh and healthy glow. This product is a real life-saver in these cold months that make my skin incredibly dry.

I finally found myself a new organic foundation that actually provides some coverage! This is the Bottega Verde Skin Voile, Moisturizing Foundation that I bought just at the end of the year. I’ve been meaning to write a whole post about it – for now let’s just say that this is the best natural ingredients-based foundation that creates a matte finish and lasts for the whole day (plus I got so many compliments since starting to wear it that I just can’t even!).
Lippy-wise, I got my first Maybelline Color Sensational lipstick and it’s amazing! The shade is 470 Red Revolution, a perfect red that evolves in a hot pink after some time (and is not as bright as in the picture). Its wear-time is amazing and I’ll definitely buy some more, to say the least. Staying in the lip department, winter means chapped lips and this Figs & Rouge Pomegranate lip balm has been saving my lips (and my nose!) throughout my most-recent cold. And its pot is just gorgeous, what can I say!

I love my organic deodorants, but one cannot fully rely on them in stressful situations. I’m so happy that I found a more effective alternative – the 8×4 mild&soft deodorant with musk, rose and iris does the job pretty well. I know this is far from perfect, but just the fact that it doesn’t contain any aluminium compounds makes me a happy camper!

♥

A little update: The past few months were quite difficult for me, I was under a lot of stress because of my studies and I fell sick probably for the fourth time since October, so you can imagine how frustrated I am at the moment. I haven’t got rid of my sore throat – turned sinus infection – turned trachea infection (+ I sounded like a Terminator and then I sounded.. NOT) – turned general cold that will hopefully be the last stage of my 2-week immune system crash (hence a lack of posts). I’m doing my best at drinking lots of water and tea with honey as well as consuming every superfood that could boost my immune system naturally. I have lots of plans in the following weeks so I have to stay focused – and healthy!

I nevertheless hope you’re having a great time and are enjoying this beautiful spring weather! ♥