Skin Cupid

- Vicki Leave a comment
skin cupid medicube cream

#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.

medicube triple collagen cream

skincare from skin cupid

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.

beauty of joseon eye cream

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 Korean skincare

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

Skin cupid Korean beauty shop

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

Notting Hill Pretty Houses

- Vicki Leave a comment
Prety notting hill london

I always knew Notting Hill was a pretty part of London, but I’d forgotten just how lovely it is to grab a takeaway coffee and explore this area. Walking up and down all the streets and little mews, seeing all the painted houses, they are so bright and cheerful.

We visited just as KURO Coffee were opening up their new café (right beside their eatery) & it was lovely. It’s a small space, but they have a bench outside for nicer days and a few seats upstairs too. The matcha, coffee and pastries were 10/10. I highly recommend, and you can spy on all the people queuing to get in Egg break which is just across the street. I do hear that it is not worth the wait, have you been?


I loved this building, it is Hillgate House which was built in 1851 by James Betts of St Pancras and was originally a chapel but is now used as offices. The building is so charming and looks impressive on the street with its iron railings, red brick and mosaic tiled entrance. There are so many incredible buildings in this area.

The streets of Notting Hill are so charming and inspiring to explore, you can just walk up and down, taking in all the colours and the fun front doors. I know it costs millions to purchase one, but you can dream and be inspired. It inspires me, that’s for sure. Even when the sky is typically British grey and the weather wet and damp, Notting Hill is a happy place.

We did visit in October, so a few houses had their Halloween decorations up, which were fun to see. Compared to where I live they go all out & make quite the effort, it was cool to spot the houses with the pumpkins, skeletons and spooky scenes. If you can visit during Halloween, you have to, it’s such a vibe.

I also really liked the old Dunhill pipe and tobacco factory (1916–1946) on Uxbridge street which has since been converted to beautiful flats. What a slice of history to live in, it is such a beautiful building. There’s so much rich history in this area if you look closely, a real mix of modern and traditional and so many green spaces and rich cultural history. You can spend days just exploring this area.

What is your favourite part of London to explore? Let me know if you have any café / restaurant recommendations for the Notting Hill area, as I can’t wait to head back in the warmer months. You can see part one of my London trip here.

The Cornish Seaweed Bath Co

- Vicki Leave a comment
Cornish seaweed bath co review

the cornish seaweed co

I have lived in Cornwall for 10 years now, and I am always impressed with how many incredible businesses are founded here. The Cornish Seaweed Bath Co is my latest discovery. Founded in Cornwall in 2013, they’re a natural beauty brand that harness the natural power of organic seaweed, Cornish seaweed and if I know anything from living here it is that there is no shortage of seaweed or coastline.

It’s so refreshing to find a local brand producing high-quality products in small batches, using fantastic ingredients to deliver the very best results, Cornwall has outdone itself again & I am very grateful to have been sent me two products from their collection to try out and get to know the brand.

Cornish Beauty Brand

british skincare seaweed

Revitalising Eye Gel

The first thing I noticed was the scent, which is a coastal ocean scent like you are by the sea. I like it a lot, it is refreshing and very calming. It comes with a lovely roller ball applicator – which makes it so cooling and soothing to apply, helping reduce puffiness around the eye. It is a product that helps refresh, hydrate, and brighten tired eyes, which I have to say is everything I want, and it is all thanks to the naturally powerful blend of seaweed and botanicals,

  • 100% Natural & Gentle – Formulated with seaweed, flowers, and plant-based ingredients.
  • Kind to Delicate Skin – Calms, hydrates, and supports the sensitive eye area.
  • No Harsh Additives – Free from silicones, parabens, and synthetic fragrance.
  • Flower-Powered Formula – With Organic Seaweed, Buddleia, Chrysanthemum, Skullcap, Cypress & Aloe.
  • Cooling Texture – Lightweight and refreshing, never heavy or greasy.

Revitalise eye gel

The silicone-free formula means it absorbs beautifully, it is lightweight, non-greasy, and perfect for hydrating the under-eye area. If you want to refresh, brighten and smooth fine lines, this eye gel is the answer. Light enough for daytime, soothing enough for evening, and its natural formula makes it suitable for every skin type.

cornish seaweed eye gel

Nutri therm hair serum

Nutri-Therm Hair Serum

This lightweight serum blends seaweed with nourishing botanicals to protect hair from heat, whilst smoothing, strengthening and giving it a healthy glossy finish, all without a trace of silicones. Not having silicones helps prevent that greasy feel and look, and my hair feels fresher and cleaner for longer.

  • Organic Seaweed – Packed with vitamins and minerals to deeply nourish, fortify, and strengthen hair from root to tip.
  • Bamboo Leaf – Boosts hair strength, encourages growth, and adds a healthy natural shine.
  • Eclipta – Celebrated for supporting hair growth while helping to reduce hair fall.
  • Broccoli Seed Oil (Brassica Oleracea Italica) – Loaded with vitamins and fatty acids to hydrate, smooth cuticles, and enhance softness.
  • Essential Oils of Clary Sage, Lavender, Ho Wood & Rose Geranium – A soothing, aromatic blend that calms the senses while leaving hair lightly fragranced and refreshed.

This lightweight serum absorbs beautifully, protecting your hair while leaving it smooth, shiny, and full of life. A true multitasker, it delivers protection, strength, and nourishment in every drop. It protects against,

  • Heat damage from styling tools
  • Environmental stressors like UV and pollution
  • Moisture loss, dryness, and brittleness
  • Cuticle damage, split ends, and frizz

It also helps with,

  • Strengthen & Repair – Reinforces hair fibres, repairs bonds, and restores resilience
  • Smooth & Shine – Seals the cuticle for softness, shine, and frizz control
  • Hydrate & Nourish – Seaweed and botanicals deeply moisturise and protect
  • Body & Volume – Adds lightweight lift and fullness without heaviness
  • Fresh for Longer – Non-greasy, silicone-free formula keeps hair looking cleaner

Cornish seaweed co skincare

Even their packaging is aesthetically pleasing, it is beautifully minimal with a fresh, coastal-inspired blue and white stripe.  It is also environmentally friendly and completely recyclable. They have bundles and sets available which make lovely gifts or are a great way to try the brand whilst making a saving.

I am looking forward to trying more of their skincare, top of my list is their Super-Nutrient Facial Oil and Renewal Facial Cleanser. The Cornish Seaweed Bath Co have a wide range of haircare, body and skincare products to pick from. So be sure to visit their website and have a browse.

The Cornish Seaweed Bath Co.

All products are formulated and crafted in Cornwall utilising only natural, organic, and sustainably sourced ingredients centred around wild-harvested Cornish seaweed.

Five Foundation Bases I Am Loving 2025

- Vicki Leave a comment
foundations 2025

A few of the foundations I am using right now, it seems I have a type! Dewy, radiant and buildable coverage.

*Armani Luminous Silk Foundation

This is my go-to for special occasions, it has incredible staying power and still looks flawless even after a full night out. My current shade is a touch too light in the summer, but I just warm things up with a bit of bronzer. Like many of the foundations I’ll mention, Armani Luminous Silk delivers a glowing, radiant finish while offering great coverage and impressive skincare benefits.

It blurs imperfections, evens out redness, and never settles into fine lines. It feels lightweight yet looks polished, and the formula delivers on quality. They have over 40 shades to pick from, which is fantastic, and more brands should be offering this kind of range. Yes, it’s an investment, but it’s absolutely worth it.

Charlotte Tilbury Unreal Skin Sheer Glow Tint Foundation Stick

I’d been looking for a foundation that was light but gave a nice amount of coverage, a nice healthy glow and lasted well throughout the day, this answered my prayers. I popped into Selfridges, and asked the lady on the CT stand if she had anything that would fit the bill, and she delivered, she applied it to my skin and I loved how fresh and awake my skin looked. It’s a nice buildable, creamy foundation that glides on and your skin instantly looks glowing (not greasy), healthy, and they offer so many colour options that I got the perfect match for my skin tone.

If you want a hydrating, buildable foundation that will help give you a dewy glow, this is the one. It is the perfect hybrid of makeup & skincare, infused with, Collageneer™, multi-molecular Hyaluronic Acid, nourishing Daikon Radish Seed Oil and antioxidant-rich Vitamin E. So it has great skincare ingredients that will look after your skin whilst also giving you a great dewy base.

L’Oreal True Match Nude Plumping Tinted Serum Foundation

This is one of my favourite foundations because of its gorgeous dewy finish. The serum texture is infused with hyaluronic acid, which hydrates and plumps the skin, giving it that smooth, blurred look. It’s lightweight, buildable, and feels really nice on the skin, I love the natural, fresh glow it gives.

If you tend to get oily during the day you might want to apply a light dusting of powder on your t-zone, My only complaint is I do not like the dropper applicator as it is messy. I wish it came in a pump bottle.

 

bareMinerals Bareskin Perfecting Veil Finishing Powder

This isn’t exactly a foundation but on lazy days I do use it on its own, just to even out my skin tone and give me a hint of colour, but If you like to have that flawless, smooth finish to your makeup then this Mineral Veil makes the best finishing powder.

It gives your skin a little added coverage with an illuminated (not glittery) finish. It’s gorgeous and so lightweight. This helps keep my oily t zone in check and makes my makeup look like I have made an extra special effort. It doesn’t look like much in the pan but don’t be fooled, it’s understated but just finishes your look off by giving it that soft focus, flawless effect. This is a really great product to have in your handbag to refresh your makeup out & about.

*Erborian BB Cream

I used to wear a lot of BB Cream, but this Erborian one is my go-to and the only one I have repurchased. The whole premise of a BB cream was to combine the effects of skincare with a light coverage and most BB Creams don’t actually have any skincare benefits to boast of, but this Korean one has some fantastic skin benefits including,

Ginseng: stimulating, toning and energising
Licorice and Ginger: anti-inflammatory, firming and anti-oxidant
Titanium Dioxide: solar filter

It hydrates and protects the skin whilst also evening out skin tone, concealing blemishes and giving a nice light coverage. It is the perfect everyday base and I always pack this in my holiday makeup because it has SPF25 in too.

What are your favourite, most used foundations? I would love to hear your recommendations.

*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 a * were gifted or received as PR.