Mario Badescu Face Mists

March 8, 2026April 1, 2026 - Vicki Leave a comment

I’m a big fan of the face mist, I use one almost every day and when I spotted this Mario Badescu set in TK Maxx I knew I had to have it. This set bundles four of Mario Badescu’s face mists together in 59 ml bottles, so you can explore the range without splashing out on full sizes, and the travel-friendly bottles make them perfect for popping in your bag or taking on holiday.

This collection gives you four different facial mists, each with a slightly different focus, from calming and hydrating to refreshing and brightening.

Facial Spray with Aloe, Cucumber and Green Tea

This spray is great for cooling, calming and soothing skin, it also feels lovely and refreshing after a warm day. It is infused with cucumber and green tea and aloe vera, designed to instantly refresh and hydrate the skin while helping to revive a dull, tired-looking complexion. It also soothes redness and calms irritation. This face mist is lovely and perfect to keep chilled in the fridge for that extra skin pick me up / refresh on a hot day.

Aloe Vera – Soothes and hydrates skin, calming irritation.
Cucumber Extract & Water – Refreshes, softens, and cools tired skin.
Green Tea Extract – Antioxidant protection, soothes and supports a healthy complexion.
Peppermint Leaf Water – Delivers a cooling, invigorating sensation.
Bladderwrack (Seaweed) Extract – Mineral-rich, nourishes and softens skin.

Facial Spray with Aloe, Chamomile and Lavender

Infused with vitamin C and a blend of botanical extracts to help hydrate, refresh and brighten the appearance of the skin. Formulated with soothing aloe vera, calming chamomile and lavender, it works to replenish moisture while helping the complexion look dewy and radiant. This mist is lovely to apply before your moisturiser.

Lavender oil and chamomile extract help calm and comfort the skin.
Lavender essential water provides lightweight hydration and a soothing feel.
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) offers antioxidant protection while helping brighten the complexion.
Thyme extract helps clarify and refresh the skin.
Bladderwrack (seaweed) extract, rich in minerals, helps soften and nourish the skin.
Aloe vera delivers soothing hydration and helps keep the skin feeling calm and moisturised.

Facial Spray with Aloe, Herbs and Rosewater

infused with rosewater and aloe vera, designed to hydrate and revive dehydrated skin. It helps reveal a healthy, dewy glow, leaving your skin feeling refreshed, radiant, and re-energised. Enhanced with clarifying thyme extract, which is great for clearer, balanced-looking skin. I love to use this spray over my makeup though out the day as a refresh to stop it looking dull or powdery.

Rosewater – Rejuvenates and refreshes the skin.
Gardenia Extract – Antioxidant-rich, helps protect and nourish.
Thyme Extract – Clarifies and supports a clearer complexion.
Bladderwrack (Seaweed) Extract – Mineral-rich, softens and nourishes skin.
Aloe Vera – Soothes, hydrates, and calms the skin.

Facial Spray with Aloe, Sage and Orange Blossom

Oil-free, multi-purpose facial mist that hydrates, tones, and refreshes the skin. Infused with orange blossom, sage, thyme, aloe vera, and mineral-rich bladderwrack (seaweed) extract, it delivers instant hydration while helping to soothe, rebalance, and clarify the complexion. Ideal for blemish-prone or combination skin, this mist leaves skin feeling fresh, dewy, and revitalised. For a nice glowing dewy look, I like to, spritz my brush before applying my foundation or concealer, then mist over the face once I have applied my powder.

Orange Blossom Essential Water – Hydrates and tones for a refreshed feel.
Sage Essential Water – Re-balances and energises the skin.
Thyme Extract – Clarifies and supports a clearer complexion.
Bladderwrack (Seaweed) Extract – Mineral-rich, softens and nourishes.
Aloe Vera – Soothes, calms, and hydrates skin.

All the facial mists in this set are fantastic and filled with skin-loving ingredients designed to hydrate, soothe, refresh, and rebalance your skin. They’re incredibly versatile and can be used in several ways throughout the day, making them a really handy addition to your skincare routine. I especially enjoy using them to revive my makeup, giving my skin a fresh, dewy finish, or keeping one nearby on my desk for a quick hydration boost whenever my skin starts to feel a little dry or tired during the day.

Have you tried any products from Mario Badescu before? If you use a facial mist as part of your skincare routine, I’d love to know which brand you use and how you like to incorporate it into your day

Wedding Guest Beauty Essentials From Very

February 28, 2026March 2, 2026 - Vicki Leave a comment

I’m here to share how I keep special occasion prep simple and as stress-free as possible. I have a system, glowing, well-prepped skin, effortless hairstyling, and a vibrant pop of colour that pulls everything together. Whether it’s a wedding, summer party, special event or an evening celebration, I love a look that that make me feel fresh, polished, and confident without ever feeling overdone.

Honestly, skincare prep changes everything when you’re doing your makeup, especially for a special occasion & it takes the stress out of your makeup not looking good by the end of the night. If your base is smooth, hydrated, and primed, everything on top just applies easier and sits better. Taking the time to do your skincare prep means your foundation & concealer goes on evenly without settling into fine lines or looking patchy, and your healthy radiant skin will help you look fresh & put together. As a bonus your makeup will last longer too.

Lately, I’ve been using a trio of products from Korean brand Beauty of Joseon, who do skincare so well. Their Ginseng Essence Water deeply hydrates, calms and refreshes your skin, the Snail Serum fades blemishes, hydrates and smooths texture, and the Dynasty Cream locks in moisture which gives you that healthy, plump, fresh-skin glow even before makeup. If I skip prepping my skin, I notice my makeup settling into fine lines or looking flat by the end of the night. Taking the time to do your skincare properly means your complexion stays dewy and polished, and I find I barely need to touch up.

I’ve found the ghd rise volumising hot brush surprisingly good at creating gentle waves & the 32mm heated barrel is a great size for natural effortless waves. It’s like a cross between a heated brush and a curling wand, so you get that relaxed, beachy wave rather than stiff ringlets, which makes my shorter hair look more textured and fun. So with a couple of passes in the direction, I get that slight curve / wave effect that looks polished but not overly done.

The softer waves add body and dimension without looking overly styled, which I think really suits a shorter cut. Creating this style doesn’t take long or feel fussy, it is my go to when I’m short on time and don’t want to spend ages in front of the mirror. I also have to say the 32mm barrel works brilliantly on my short fringe, adding shape and volume.

The styler is lightweight and very easy to use, you don’t just have to do loose waves you can, add bounce and volume or create a smooth sleek look. It is a great tool to have if, like me, you do not like to overcomplicate your hair routine.

Not only do I love how light and easy the ghd hot brush is to use, but it also gets top marks from me because the brush temperature is controlled to 185°C. It’s hot enough to create beautiful volume, bounce and body, yet gentle enough to help minimise excessive heat damage. You never feel like you’re scorching your hair, but you still achieve salon-worthy lift, soft curls and long-lasting shape with a glossy, healthy-looking finish.

I always feel like a pop of colour instantly lifts my mood – it’s like a little dose of dopamine! This gorgeous floor length pink dress does exactly that. The silhouette is beautifully flattering, skimming in all the right places you could throw on a light blazer, cardigan, or scarf if it’s a bit chilly. It’s honestly the perfect dress for a spring or summer wedding – easy, effortless, but still stylish and put together. Very have a great selection of occasion wear dresses to pick from.

All set and ready to go! What truly makes me feel confident is knowing my skin prep has paid off. My complexion looks radiant, fresh and prepped, which means I can keep my makeup minimal while still feeling polished, and I know it will stay put and look good throughout the entire evening, with just a few lipstick touch ups!

Styling my hair was just as effortless, the ghd hot brush completely took the stress out of the process, adding smooth volume and shape to my fringe and cute natural bouncy waves to my hair. So I have a sleek, put-together finish without the usual fuss.

For every step of your routine from statement occasion dresses to beauty essentials and hair tools, Very.co.uk is my go-to destination.

*Sponsored post with gifted product, but the review is 100% my own.

Summer Beauty Empties 2025

September 21, 2025 - Vicki Leave a comment

Now that we are in Autumn, I am sharing the beauty products I used up over the past few months. I discovered new products that have become firm favourites and that I will be repurchasing, and also a few items that were good but that I won’t rush to use again.

Garnier Intensive 7 Days Hydrating Lotion

I’ve gone through a few bottles of this over the years and while I think it’s a good, affordable body lotion, it is not my favourite. The texture is lightweight and hydrating, with a fresh, clean scent, and it does absorb quickly without feeling greasy, but sometimes, mostly in the colder months I just need a cream that is more rich and nourishing, so I still prefer the Dove Pro Age Body Lotion for the colder months. I will repurchase the Garnier on when it’s on offer (too good a deal not too) but I will be using the Dove one until the Spring comes round again.

Charlotte Tilbury Air Brush Flawless Setting Spray

I have fallen hard for the Charlotte Tilbury Air Brush Flawless Setting Spray, I can honestly say this is a product I’ll always repurchase. It not only keeps my makeup in place all day, but it also gives my skin a gorgeous, healthy glow. Unlike other setting sprays that can feel heavy, sticky, or drying, this one is hydrating and weightless on the skin. I get the travel-size bottle so I can keep it in my bag for top-ups (though I rarely need them). For me, it’s 100% worth the hype and an absolute must-have.

Batiste Volume Dry Shampoo

This can of Batiste lasted me ages, which I love because you only need to spray a little product, and it does the job. I go through phases of using dry shampoo all the time & then I forget about it for a while. I always keep a can of Batiste on hand as such a reliable product, I usually just grab whichever version is on offer, but the dark one is a favourite as it blends in with my hair so well. Definitely one of those everyday staples I’ll keep repurchasing. I just don’t think you need to spend a fortune on a dry shampoo.

*Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler + Elasticity Day SPF 30

This was such a lovely cream to use, I mainly saved it for makeup days because my foundation sat beautifully on top of it and looked really fresh all day. I also loved how plumping it felt on the skin, giving me that fresh, hydrated look. It’s packed with hyaluronic acid to help with fine lines, plus arctiin for elasticity, and the added SPF 30 is such a bonus for everyday protection. It also contains Thiamidol, which is a patented Eucerin ingredient, that’s clinically proven to reduce dark spots, prevent their return, and promote brighter, even-toned skin. A great day cream that I’d highly recommend, I’m looking forward to exploring more products from this range, which includes an eye cream, a serum, and even a refill pot for this moisturiser. The refill option is a great idea, as it allows you to top up your pot rather than discarding it entirely, making it a more eco-friendly choice.

Elemis Pro Collagen Green Fig Cleansing Balm

I’ve just finished my 4th pot of the Elemis Pro-Collagen Green Fig Cleansing Balm, and I can’t get enough of it because fig is one of my absolute favourite scents. It’s easy to see why the Elemis cleansing balms are such a cult favourite, I love the balm-to-oil texture it melts away even the most stubborn makeup, but it’s gentle on the skin. Using it is like having a little spa moment at home, it’s soothing, and it leaves my skin feeling soft, nourished, and completely clean and the fig scent is heavenly. Honestly, it’s a solid 10/10.

Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Moisturiser

I really liked this moisturiser, it’s lightweight, hydrating and absorbs quickly without leaving any greasiness. It’s an effective day cream that I’d happily repurchase. If you are looking for an affordable moisturiser, this is a great option.

Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Day Serum

I adore this serum and have used up many a bottle. It’s designed to boost radiance, and even-out, the 3.5% vitamin C concentration helps leave my skin looking fresh and glowing. It also has Niacinamide and Salicylic Acid, which gently exfoliate to smooth texture and reduce blemishes, plus Lemon Extract to brighten the skin. It’s such a great, product to have in your routine.

Garnier Vitamin C Brightening Night Serum 10%

Like the day serum, I love the night one too (this might just be my fave out of the two), It has 10% vitamin C which works overnight to brighten, even out skin tone, and give that fresh morning glow. I love that it also has Niacinamide to smooth and calm, Salicylic Acid to gently exfoliate and tackle blemishes, and Lemon Extract to boost brightness. My skin always looks well rested, nourished, and glowing by morning. Such a popular product in my house, as my husband also uses it.

L’Oréal Revitalift Plumping Toner

This toner is a constant in my skincare routine, I use it at least once a day, it is refreshing and hydrating and find it helps prep my face for the rest of my skincare routine. It contains hyaluronic acid, which helps to plump and hydrate my skin, making it feel soft and smooth, I like using it on days when my skin needs a little extra hydration boost. It’s such an effective, and affordable toner, and I always have a new bottle waiting and I buy it for my mum as well.

Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinoid + Niacinamide Eye Serum

This eye serum was included in my Sunday Riley set and I can’t tell how much I enjoyed using all the products. I had never tried this brand before and thought a set was the perfect way to try a few of their key products. This eye serum is designed to target fine lines, puffiness, and dark circles and I felt it worked really well. It contains, 6% retinoid complex and centella asiatica to boost collagen and improve elasticity, plus niacinamide to brighten and calm. Ceramides, olive oil, red poppy seed extract and shea butter hydrate and soothe delicate skin. It is a fantastic for radiance, soothing and smoothing the under eye.

Sunday Riley A+ High Dose Retinoid Serum

I honestly loved this serum, I used it at night, and the incredible ingredients that are packed into this product worked their magic. It’s got a 6.5% blend of retinoids which gets to work on fine lines, uneven texture, and sun damage, it’s also packed with CoQ10, ginger, honey, cactus extract, and shea butter which keeps your skin feeling calm, hydrated, and balanced. The texture is lovely, even though it is a retinoid based product I found it was gentle and didn’t irritate. I am buying this again, and think it’s made such a difference to how fresh and radiant my skin looks.

This post contains affiliate links, If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Products marked with an * were gifted PR.

Skin Cupid

August 31, 2025April 2, 2026 - Vicki Leave a comment

#gifted I have been trying out 2 cult Korean beauty skincare products over the past 2 months and wanted to let you know how I have been getting on with them. They were kindly sent out from online beauty retailer, Skin Cupid, who are a UK-based online shop who offer a carefully curated range of authentic Korean beauty products, perfect if you’re a K-beauty addict or just want to explore some new brands. They have everything you could possibly need! The site is very easy to use and full of helpful information on what to use at each step of your routine, along with which products work best for different skin concerns. They stock everything from skincare to haircare and body care to makeup so it can be your one-stop shop for all things K-beauty.

Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum

This eye serum has quickly become a daily staple in my skincare routine, and it’s easy to see why it’s so loved. With it having a serum texture, it is lightweight and does not feel heavy or greasy. The Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum combines traditional Korean botanicals with modern skincare science, giving you the best of both worlds. With its 10% ginseng root and 2% Retinal Liposome, it tackles everything from dark circles to fine lines, so for me, it’s the ultimate firming and lifting solution for tired-looking eyes.

Retinal Liposome – Gentle vitamin A, boosts collagen, smooths fine lines.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) – Brightens dark circles, evens skin tone, strengthens skin barrier.
Hyaluronic Acid – Deeply hydrates and plumps the skin.
Ceramides – Maintain moisture balance and strengthen the delicate under-eye skin.

Traditional Korean Botanical Ingredients:

Ginseng Root Extract – Firms, reduces puffiness, revitalises under-eye skin.
Green Tea Extract – Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, soothes and protects.
Mugwort (Artemisia) Extract – Calms irritation and heals sensitive skin.
Rice Extract – Brightens, hydrates, improves texture.
Centella Asiatica – Repairs and soothes, strengthens barrier.
Licorice Root Extract – Brightens dark circles, evens tone.

I have really enjoyed using this eye serum, it has slotted into my skincare routine and I often use it morning and night. I have been using it for almost 2 months and have noticed my skin looks smoother and brighter, which means my concealer applies better, creases less throughout the day and on the days I don’t wear makeup my eyes don’t look as dark or tired. So I am thrilled with the results and the price is so affordable, which is always a bonus, I also like the tube packaging with the pump lid. If you’re looking to address under-eye concerns without breaking the bank, I highly recommend adding this to your skincare routine.

I will be having a browse through their other products to see what else I can try, I have heard very good reviews of the Dynasty Cream and their SPF.

Medicube Triple Collagen Cream 4.0

Formulated with a powerful blend of collagen, elastin, and brightening actives, this cream helps visibly firm, smooth, and revitalise your skin. This cream has a rich texture but surprisingly lightweight, it sinks effortlessly into the skin without leaving any greasy residue. It feels luxurious and nourishing, and my skin is hydrated, dewy and instantly smooth. It is a cream that not only feels fantastic on the skin, wears well under makeup, but it is also working hard for your skin too, it has so many incredible ingredients,

Triple Collagen Complex – Firms, plumps, and boosts elasticity.
Hydrolysed Elastin – Improves skin’s bounce and resilience.
Niacinamide – Brightens, fades dark spots, and refines pores.
Hyaluronic Acid – Deep hydration and smoother texture.
Adenosine: Encourages collagen and elastin production for firmer, smoother skin
Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract – Known for its skin-conditioning properties, this extract helps to maintain skin health and balance.
Eclipta Prostrata Leaf Extract – Traditionally used in Korean skincare for its soothing and healing properties, it helps calm and repair the skin.

I’ve been using the Medicube Triple Collagen Cream for a while now, and it has quickly become a staple in my skincare routine, I can 100% say that it lives up to the hype. I’ve noticed visible results, and with consistent use, I have less pigmentation, my skin is firmer and more radiant. Not only that, but I think my skin is looking healthier than ever. If you’re after a moisturiser that firms, hydrates, and brightens, this Korean beauty is an absolute must-have.

Let me know if you have tried any products from Medicube, and what you would recommend I try next from them

Let me know if you have shopped on Skin Cupid and what your Korean Beauty must have products are, especially for Winter, as I love to switch up my routine as the seasons change.

* These products were gifted to me as PR samples, but I was not asked to write about them. All opinions are my own

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