FOTD: The 'I Swear I Don't Have A MAC/Bobbi Brown Addiction' Edition

Well hey diddly ho neighourinos! *channelling her inner Flanders today*

I thought I'd post what makeup I've been using lately, as I don't switch it up too often and it's nice to look back on how my everyday makeup has changed. 

Ever since I started Roaccutane, my skin has completely changed, going from quite oily to extremely dry, and with that change comes a change of foundation. 

I went to Debenhams and bought this on a whim and it has been the greatest impulse buy I've made in ages! The Bobbi Brown Intensive Skin Serum Foundation is quite sheer but buildable, it helps cover any redness I have and allows my skin to shine through which I love - it looks so natural! I love that it has SPF40 so I don't have to put on another layer under my foundation.

Not too sure about the serum part of this but at the end of the day when I take it off, my skin doesn't feel as dry as when I have taken off any other foundations - so maybe it does work!

I still have acne scarring, and for this I use the Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer. It's very opaque which is great, but you do have to work fast or it gets a bit difficult to blend if you wait too long. I don't use it much for under my eyes as I thankfully don't get eye bags or dark circles.

For the eyes I tend to just stick to top liner using MAC Fluidline in Blacktrack - not as dark as I like it to be but it does the job. I really prefer the Bobbi Brown Gel liner to be honest! 

If I can be bothered (I'm so lazy when it comes to my eyelashes), I use the Maybelline Lash Sensational Lash Multiplying mascara, which I don't really like too much to be honest, so any recommendations are welcome!

I set my face with my trusty MAC Select Sheer Pressed Powder, and blush it up with MAC's Coppertone blush. I really like MAC's powder products, definitely would recommend.

My favourite lip combo these days is the MAC Pro Longwear lip pencil in Morning Coffee with the Bourjois Rouge Edition lipstick in 05 Brun Boheme. They go together absolutely perfectly!

It's safe to say I'm obsessed with Bobbi Brown and MAC lately now that I look back at this post. Oh well, what works works eh ladies? 

So tell me! Anyone else out there who wears the same makeup for a while everyday or is that just me? Let me know in the comments below that I'm not alone! ;D

Disclaimer: All products were bought with my own money unless stated otherwise. All opinions are my own. Pinky promise^^

Skincare Routine: Post Roaccutane

Hello there beautiful people! Long time no see. Like a whole year today actually.
*awkward pause* My bad. Heh.

Aaaaanywho, now that I'm off of Roaccutane, I thought I'd share the skincare routine I've been using these past couple of months or so. 

1. L'oreal Skin Perfection Soothing Gel-cream Wash

I really like this, and not just for its packaging and lovely smell! My face always feels thoroughly cleansed after using this beauty.

Once I've taken my makeup off, I take a little of this and lather it up over my damp face; it even helps take off any residual mascara I've got left. Yes, it is so good that you can use it on your eye area too. Not once have I had any irritation around the eye area or on my actual eye with this stuff. Brilliant!

This is actually my second tube; I wouldn't however recommend it if you've literally just gotten off of Roaccutane, as it can be a bit drying right off the bat, despite it claiming to be for dry skin. I think what they meant was it's for normal dry skin, not the massively dehydrated skin Roaccutane users have!

2. Rio Rosa Mosqueta Skin Brightening Exfoliator*

A couple of weeks or so before I got put on Roaccutane again last year, I was very kindly sent this Godsend of an exfoliator by Rio Rosa Mosqueta. Unfortunately, my dermatologist told me to stay away from exfoliators while I was on Roaccutane, so this got put in my drawer for a while.

However one day, I was getting really quite sick of how flaky my skin was from the medication, and reached into my drawer to give it a go - and you have no idea how thankful I was that I did! This didn't irritate my skin one tiny bit; it's literally the best exfoliator for someone on Roaccutane no word of a lie. I've found that the St Ives ones are too harsh for Roaccutane skin, and any others I've tried that were less harsh, weren't doing anything at all.

I think what set this exfoliator apart from the St Ives one (that I usually reached for) was that its texture was a good, happy medium: it has large enough grainy bits in, but the cream base is just runny and moisturising enough to not be harsh on the skin. And I only need a light moisturiser after using this!

3. Olay Beauty Fluid: Day for Normal/Dry/Combo skin

When I was actually on Roaccutane, I used a thicker moisturiser, but now that my skin has been changed forever, I've moved onto a different version of an old favourite of mine - the Olay beauty fluid. I either use this one, or the sensitive version, but both are fine.

The great thing about this one is that if I find that if one layer isn't enough, I can put some more on without it feeling strange on this skin. Great for people who wash their face several times a day.

You're wondering why I wash my face several times a day aren't you? Well don't be alarmed, there's a perfectly reasonable explanation for that: it's because I'm a muslim, and we pray five times a day, but before we do that we splash our face (amongst other things^^) with water a few times a day to become ritually clean. :D

4. Eucerin Dry Skin Intensive Lip Balm

Something I found researching for skincare products for Roaccutane users before I started - and I've never looked back. Nothing.. and I mean NOTHING.. compares to this anymore.

If I ever get another lipbalm, I always end up comparing it to this, and I almost always go back to this. When my lips and the corners of my mouth literally cracked from dryness, it was this that saved it.

I've gone through countless of these, and every single time Boots have a 3 for 2 offer on skincare, I stock up on them. I'm actually running a little low on my stash of these.. I really ought to pick some more up next time I have a chance!

5. Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask

This mask is the only facemask I've used on a regular basis. Although I didn't use it whilst I was on Roaccutane, pre- and post-Roaccutane, I've used it at least 4 out of the 5 times I wanted to use a facemask - the other time I want to use a mask, I use korean sheet masks.

Dry patches? Under the surface spot? Looking tired? Use this! The amount of times I've put this on and woke up to those problems halved.. honestly, this is 100% worth the splurge! 

I don't recommend it if you're actually on Roaccutane though, as your skin is too sensitive for anything with a scent as strong as this - I would know, I've tried! Get it after - you won't regret it. :D

Apologies if that was a tad long! I haven't blogged in so long, I've forgotten what it's like to be concise.. Bear with me, I'll get back my blogging mojo properly soon enough.

 If you have any questions or post requests for anything Roaccutane related, drop me a comment below and I'll get on it! 

Disclaimer: All products were bought with my own money unless stated otherwise. All opinions are my own. Pinky promise^^

Perfume wishlist

Hey there beautiful people~ Hope this post finds you well!

These past few months, I've developed a massive love for perfume, and I've come up with a little wishlist to remind myself of what I need to buy next time they're on offer..

I'm not very good at describing perfume scents, but I'll try my best!

1. Dot by Marc Jacobs

Top notes: Red Berries, Dragonfruit, Honeysuckle

Heart notes: Jasmine, Coconut Water, Orange Blossom

Base notes: Vanilla, Driftwood, Musk

A few weeks ago, I smelt Dot and Honey by Marc Jacobs. I fell in love with them both equally, and went into any perfume shop any time I had a chance to smell them, to compare them, but I still couldn't decide which one to buy. They both smelt like they were made for me, but I couldn't decide which one to pick.

Then one evening I saw that Honey was on offer on Amazon and I just thought 'why not?' and bought it there and then! 

But.. I still feel like I need Dot in my life. I feel like Dot is a slightly more.. mature version of Honey. I don't know what it is about it, but it smells amazing on my skin. Out of the three perfumes on this list, this is what I'm definitely getting first!

2. Le Parfum by Elie Saab

Top note: Orange blossom

Heart note: Jasmine Absolute, Patchouli

Base note: Cedar Wood, Honey Rose

I don't usually like woody perfumes, and I smelt this on the off chance because I thought the bottle was pretty (I know, I know. What can I say? I'm such a sucker for pretty packaging..).

I actually thought it was too strong when I sprayed it on a tester strip, but when I sprayed it on my wrists and let it settle I knew I had to have it! Too bad payday wasn't anywhere near that time... Sigh.

3. Blossom by Jimmy Choo

Top notes: Sweet Pea, Rose

Heart notes: Berries, Citrus, Cocktails

Base notes: White Musk, Sandalwood

Guys. This smells MOUTHWATERING. It's so sweet, even sweeter than the original Jimmy Choo perfumes. I feel like this is one of those perfumes that is like Marmite. You'll either love it or hate it. I LOVE IT!! And I must have it. Might just buy it with my Boots points..

What perfumes have you been lusting after lately?

Any recommendations? (^__^)

Long Time No See :o)

Hey there beautiful people! Hope you've all been well while I've been away.

I stopped blogging because life got in the way, but I'm back now

with more time and energy than ever before - so lets get this show on the road! (^__^)

A little update for you guys - I've changed my blog URL from

'themaryfairy.blogspot.co.uk'

to

'ReflectionsAndAffections.blogspot.co.uk'.

I thought it was about time I shed my childhood nickname

and choose something more grown up instead ;D 

I'll be slowly making changes to my blog layout too -

once I remember how I did it the first time I set up my blog.. XD

That being said, if you are, or you know of, someone who does

blog designs, please drop me a link below and so I can check out your/their portfolio :)

In the meantime, look forward to more regular blogposts - I'll be

posting a variety of beauty and skincare related stuff, and maybe even outfits too!

If you have any requests or ideas, do comment below and let me know!

Till next time, stay beautiful my lovelies ♥

What's In My Bag: The Bare Minimum Edition ☼

Salaam and hello my lovelies! Hope you're all doing well :o) It's been about a year since I did my last one, so I thought why not do another what's in my bag post? I love reading other WIMB posts.. I can't be the only one right? I think it's in the human nature to be curious (read: nosy) about such things! ^^

 The lovely weather has led me to stop being such a hermit and stepping outside to explore my little city, and being one who usually has a massive bag full of books and notes and many other things 'I might need just in case', I found I needed to cut down on it all in order for me to get around more easily without all my stuff bogging me down!

So lately I have slowly been figuring out, through trial and error, what things I will definitely need and use, and it has culminated to this.. these.. THESE are the things I definitely need and use! It took me a bloody long time and willpower, I'm telling ya..

[ My bag is a gift from my mum, if anyone is wondering (^-^) she randomly got me it one day because she felt like it. I love my mum! ]

[clockwise from left]

Let's do this~

1. Brecon Carreg Natural Mineral Water - The only mineral water I like to drink~ Being on Roaccutane makes you incredibly thirsty - ALL the time, and keeping hydrated is a definite must, especially in the summer time and when I'm out exploring.

2. Sticky Note pad, pen, and clip - Pad and pen for when I need to write something down, and the clip for when I have had a packet of something to eat and didn't finish it. I just clip it on so it doesn't spill everywhere in my bag :D I always keep one with me in each bag hehe. Works a treat! Better than an elastic band in my opinion.

3. Roaccutane tablets - I prefer to have my tablets when I have had a meal, so I keep some with me in case I have gone out and eaten. I find my body prefers it when I have my tablets earlier in the day. 

4. Portable Mobile Charger - Just in case my phone battery runs out of juice! Which it usually does, the stupid thing -.- and by lunchtime too.. *sighs*

5. Eucerin Aquaphor Lip Repair - LITERALLY the best lip treatment in the world. Recommend it 1000000%! I have one in every room, and in every bag.. A Roaccutane users best friend!

6. Origins Make A Difference Rejuvenating Hand Treatment - it really does make a difference! Hehe. And it's a small deluxe sample size so it fits perfectly in my bag. Since I've been on Roaccutane, my hands have gotten extremely dry, so I need to use hand cream almost every time I wash or sanitize my hands. Alongside my Aquaphor, I have a hand cream in each bag and room too. For the full review on this hand cream click here~

7. Bath & Body Works Sweet Pea PocketBac Antibacterial Hand Gel - a gift from my best friend. For when there is no tap and hand wash available! I'm such a germaphobe. (>.<)

8. Victoria's Secret Perfume in Simply Breathless - I've almost run out of this! My best friend got me this too hehe. I love how fruity it is~ I adore fruity scents! And yes, I know this isn't exactly a necessity, but I can't live without my perfume!

9. Purse - From New Look! I got it in the January sales. I adore the colour and the gold metal detailing. It sort of matches my bag now that I look at it!

I also usually take the lipstick of the day with me, but that varies from day to day. There's also my phone, iPod and headphones, but they're usually in my pocket. (^__^)

Wow that's a lot more than I thought I had - and yet somehow they all fit into my little bag, and don't give me back pains ;D

What are your bare minimum bag essentials?☺

Disclaimer: All products were bought with my own money unless stated otherwise. All opinions are my own. Pinky promise^^

Mini Origins Mini Series: Origins Drink Up Intensive Face Mask / Origins Make A Difference Rejuvenating Hand Treatment Review

Back in December I bought a gift set of crackers from the Origins counter, and in each of the crackers there were two deluxe sample sized little tubes of their best sellers. I've never tried anything from Origins before and I had heard that their face masks were the best, and after having a browse of the rest of the counter, I ended up liking the look of some of their other stuff too.

Upon seeing this little set, I thought it would be a brilliant way for me to trial almost everything I wanted without ending up with massive bottles of stuff that didn't agree with me! Yay! (^-^)

I will be doing the reviews in twos as that's how I photographed them :o)

Origins Drink Up Intensive Face Mask

Goodness me. When you hear everyone go on about something, sometimes they are not bloody joking! ALL the hype about this is 1000000% true, I could tell from the first time I used it *rejoices*

The way to use this mask is to apply a thin layer all over your face (bar your eyes) like you would use a moisturiser, wake up in the morning and wash it off and feel your gorgeously soft and hydrated skin, just like they do in those ridiculous commercials.

Except you won't be acting. You really WILL be that happy about your beautifully plump and gorgeous skin!

It's expensive, but boy is it worth it! I am definitely going to buy this in full size when I run out, this is absolutely worth every penny, no word of a lie. I've used my little tube so many times now and I'm surprised it hasn't finished yet. A little of this goes a long way so I am more than willing to pay £22 for the full sized 100ml tube!

Origins Make A Difference Rejuvenating Hand Treatment

This stuff does what it says on the tin (tube..). It really does make a difference! Its a little thick but not greasy, and sinks in quite well, and it keeps my hands hydrated for a long time. It comes out a tad goopy but not runny. I find the texture a little weird to be honest but I can overlook little things like that because it does the job.

The smell might not be for everyone; I personally love it! Its quite strong and smells of ginger. I can't get enough of it, but that's just my own personal taste.

I do however feel it is quite overpriced for a hand cream.. £19 for 75ml of hand cream? If you have the money to splash out on it, then I wholeheartedly recommend it. If you don't, trust me you can find ones of the same quality with a lower price, I assure you!

The cracker also had a joke in it.. it wasn't that funny but good on them for trying hahaha xD

Have you tried either of these before? What's your favourite overnight face mask? Leave a comment below telling me, I'd love to read about them ☺

Disclaimer: I bought this with my own money, and all views stated at my own.

Blog Sale!

Hey everyone!

Just a quick post to let you know I have another blog sale going on! I had some stuff that I haven't used and probably won't use until I finish Roaccutane (which will be God knows when) and I decided it would be best to sell them instead. 

All unopened and in original packaging, so please do check it out and pass it along to anyone who is interested, as I wouldn't want them to just sit there unloved :)

I also have some books on sale too if anyone is interested!

Click here to go to my blog sale page, and if you have any questions just drop me an email at themaryfairy@hotmail.co.uk (^__^)

Happy browsing and have a good day ☺

Skin Update #2 - Roaccutane/Accutane

Hey guys! Apologies for the massive break in blogging. Life took over and I would just like to leave the topic at that. :o)

I thought I would give you a little update on my skin since my last one back in September.

Since then, I've been on a couple of antibiotics, which didn't help me at all; and I decided to go back to the doctors and put my foot down and ask for something that was definitely meant to work, because I was absolutely sick of getting 99% of the side effects in each of the antibiotics prescribed to me.

Before I went in, I did my research, and found Roaccutane. I looked up all the side effects (and there are a whole LOT) and decided I would be able to handle most of these, at least the common ones anyway.

Roaccutane's side effects are so severe and it itself is so potent that it's used as a last resort, and it is EXTREMELY difficult for you to get on to it because of this. I didn't think I would be able to get onto it, from reading all the stories of the people of the internet.. from the videos I watched and the photos I saw, their acne seemed far worse than mine.

I remember sitting in the doctors office and telling her I am absolutely done with all these other treatments, and that none of them worked on my skin at all.

And just as I had almost gathered up the courage to ask her about Roaccutane, she turned to her computer and said 'I think it's time to refer you to a dermatologist. I think it's time for you to go on this drug called Roaccutane..'

And that was that. I've been on it for just over 4 months now, and I've experienced quite a few of the side effects that come with it, but my skin has definitely, vastly improved because of it.

Now and again I will post a review or a recommendation of a product that I have tried and tested that helps to combat the side effects I have experienced with Roaccutane, and if you have any questions about the drug itself or would like more details about the whole process of getting on Roaccutane, please drop a comment below and I will see if I can make a detailed blog post about it (^__^)

Till next time, stay awesome guys! :o)

Face Mask Friday: Montagne Jeunesse White Chocolate Ultra Deep Cleansing Masque

Have you ever bought something thinking it's going to be divine, just by reading it's name? Well I did that with this. The Montagne Jeunesse White Chocolate Ultra Deep Cleansing Masque caught my eye because pampering + chocolate should definitely = HEAVEN.

But alas, it was not to be. 

For me, if the packaging doesn't suck me in, then the next thing that does is the smell. I adore products that make me want to drool as soon as I open the packet/container. This one.. if I had known how horrible the smell was before hand I would not have wasted my money on it, even if it was for a pound!

The smell was incredibly synthetic and overpowering and it actually made me want to gag. I was expecting something that smelt like MilkyBar but in reality it was nowhere close to that.

But in the end I had to put my disgust for the scent aside and put it on my face - two or three times actually, you get a lot of product in the sachet - and try to be unbiased and see if it would do anything for my face.

So I smoothed it all over my face and tried to relax (which didn't work because I couldn't NOT smell it xD) for about fifteen minutes. I could only make it to ten minutes though, and it didn't dry anywhere on my face at all, while some other masks I've used did after ten minutes or so at least.

After washing it off, my skin didn't feel much different if I'm honest. It didn't feel particularly moisturised nor any smoother as it claims to say on the packet; in fact my face always felt greasy and a little congested after I used this mask! I used this when my skin was going through a bit of a dry patch, and I had high hopes for it because it has Jojoba oil in it which is meant to be good at moisturising the skin.

I do however think that this would have been better for someone with extremely dry skin rather than someone who has combination skin like me though. For some reason I just couldn't get a long with it - the smell was just too overpowering!

You can purchase Montagne Jeunesse face masks in Boots, Superdrug, Asda, Tescos, New Look, Home Bargains, everywhere! They're usually for a quid but Home Bargains tend to do a 4 for the price of 3 a lot so you should check them out if you ever pass by one (^__^)

Disclaimer: I bought this with my own money, and all views stated at my own.

Related Posts: Montagne Jeunesse Pressed Blueberries Very Berry Ultra Moisturising and Cleansing Masque, Natural Collection Rosemary & Witch Hazel Mask, Superdrug Hydrating Self Heating Mask

Back To Uni Wishlist ♥

Back To Uni Wishlist by themaryfairy featuring Skullcandy

Burgundy Chiffon Blouse from H&M - £14.99 / Beige & Black Long Sleeveless Chiffon Blouse from H&M - £14.99 each / Dorothy Perkins Indigo Straight Leg Jeans - £20/£25 / Skullcandy Headphones - £15 / New Look Extra Wide Fit Brown Elastic Back Buckle Boots - £24.99 / Topshop Large Edge Paint Satchel in Grey - £34 / ASOS Satchel Bag With Scallop Bar Detail in Conker - £30

Anneyong my lovelies! I thought I'd post a little wish list on what I'm planning on getting in prep for uni this year (^__^)

I think the colour for this year for my wardrobe is going to be stuff like dark purples, maroons, and dark greens. I've been really feeling those colours lately, and I know for sure that once my money comes in I'm going to spend it on updating my wardrobe with a lot stuff in these colours! They just feel so wintery, I love it~ I'm actually looking forward to the cold winter.. I know I'm strange but come on, you know you are too really!

I'm in dire need of some new jeans, and Dorothy Perkins never fails to let me down in the jeans department. Their petite sizes are perfect length and fit for me, I'm so glad I found them because it's really hard to find jeans that fit me because I'm on the short side.

Shoes wise, I have some already but I need a new pair of mid-calf-length kinda boots like I did last year, but they're ruined now so I need to replace them ASAP. I think I've found the perfect ones here in New Look, but I'm going to try them out in store before I buy them. I'm really picky when it comes to shoes haha.

Speaking of being picky.. I'm quite picky when it comes to choosing a bag. And now I can't choose between these two. I might end up buying them both (which is a first) I actually love them that much, and they both will fit my netbook easily, which doesn't make the decision any easier (>.<)

Oh and last but not least, headphones to drown out the world while I work and study. My trusty old JVC headphones broke a long time ago and I haven't had a decent pair since. I don't really know which ones to get yet, but I do know I really want some in red that are similar to these! (^__^)

Have you prepared for uni yet? Or doing it all last minute like me? :P

Girl, What's On Your Face?!

Hi my lovelies~ Hope you're having a fabulous evening. ^.^

I thought I'd share a kind of a 'face of the day' post with you guys today. But, you know, without the face. :D

[clockwise from left]

Bourjois Healthymix Foundation in shade 52 - Benefit They're Real! Mascara - Revlon Lip Butter in Wild Watermelon - Maybelline Fit Me! Pressed Powder in 125 Nude Biege - Benefit Benetint - Stila Smudge Pot in Cobalt

I don't really wear much colour on my face, but when I do it's usually the eyes where I put it - I tend to just use a coloured liner on my bottom lashes and that's it. 

But this time I remembered my blue gel liner from Stila and thought I'd give it a try since it had been AGES since I had cracked it open. I've literally had it for two years and used it, what, once? It hasn't dried out at all.. probably because the lid was on REALLY tight!

It actually lasted a very long time: TWELVE hours in fact! That's a bloody long time compared to my usual black Maybelline gel liner, which usually lasts about six to seven hours I'd say. I'm definitely going to be wearing this again, I loved how it made my eyes look really brown and bright in contrast (^__^)

My lips seem to be really dull lately, and I can't figure out why. So I used some of my trusty Benetint to brighten my lips up a little  and kept my Revlon Lip Butter in Wild Watermelon in my purse for when it faded away (after eating so much) through the day (^__^) haha!

What do you use to brighten up your face? Have you shaken up your usual makeup lately? And should I post more faces of the day without the faces or not? Let me know in the comments below! (^__^)

Disclaimer: I bought everything with my own money, and all views stated at my own. (>.<)

Mini Haul ft. Eucerin ☼

Ayooo~~ How's it going guys? Everyone doing well? ;D I'm back today with a collective mini haul! 

I actually bought these a few weeks ago separately, but thought I would post about them anyway, because 2/3 are for the dry skin I will be anticipating once I get on Roaccutane - it's meant to dry your skin out A LOT so I thought I'd prepare early and buy some of the things other people on Roaccutane had recommended in advance. (^__^)

[L-R]

Simple Kind to Skin Replenishing Rich Moisturiser - This is the heavier version of my usual Simple moisturiser which was for oily skin. I have tried it and because my skin is still a little oily (because I haven't started Roaccutane yet) I need a lot less than I did with the light version. So far so good! Let's hope it works when my skin gets drier. If not I have another moisturiser in mind from Eucerin ^.^

Real Techniques Stippling Brush - I ordered this off of iHerb with a load of other stuff... but the other stuff was for my younger sister and her friends lol. I just bought the one lonely stippling brush because my first one was falling apart. xD Dead cheap, you should should check it out! You do have to pay a customs fee if it costs more than a certain amont though, so be warned! I didn't know until I received it, wish I had known before -.-

Eucerin Aquaphor Lip Repair - Everyone who has been on Roaccutane has bought, used and recommended this over and over again. I couldn't find it in Boots so I ended up having to look for it on Amazon, where it seems everyone seems to get it from!

Do you know what I've noticed.. my mini hauls tend to come in threes.. o_O Why is that?! LOL! I guess since my project pan last year I've gotten good at not overspending ^.^ Hurray for not wasting money! :D

Disclaimer: I bought everything with my own money, and all views stated at my own. (^__^)

Skin update #1 - Lymecycline/Tetracycline

Aloha my lovelies~ Today I thought I'd talk about what I've been doing for my skin lately.

Last time I posted about my skin, it was in a really bad state. You can click here to read the full post. After asking many people for advice, and them telling me to see my dermatologist, I gave in and made an appointment. I explained to her how painful it was and how I'm sick to death of battling with my acne on a daily basis; it's been about eleven years now, and I still haven't gotten rid of it, no matter what I tried. I had already been on antibiotics when I was around sixteen, and that messed my skin up even more, which put me off going to the doctors for it until now.

She decided that it was time to put me on Roaccutane, which is a last resort drug that is extremely harsh and you have to jump through a million hoops before even being considered to be put on it. I had to book a blood test to see if I had the all clear, and in the mean time she prescribed me something else to take as the time until I get Roaccutane will be quite long, and she wanted me to see if anything else that was left (that was less harsh) would work on my skin instead.

And guess what she gave me? Yup you guessed it.. more antibiotics.The first set she gave me when I was sixteen was an antibiotic called Tetracycline and some topical creams containing Benzoyl Peroxide and Differin in. It dried out my skin, my eyelids were rough and dry, and it LITERALLY cracked my lips. LITERALLY. It even made them turn bluey purple. 

It didn't help that I had no good idea about skincare back then either. She never told me to wash it off properly in the morning, she didn't explain what the ingredients were - I just assumed it was like a moisturiser like a nivea cream I had that had some added bonus ingredient in to get rid of the spots. It didn't occur to me to look up the ingredients or research them either, as I had a lot of bad things going on in my life which took centre stage instead.

But now that I know a lot more about skincare, I can battle anything that comes my way when it comes to any skin-related side effects when taking antibiotics.

But alas, as prepared as I was for those side effects, it was not to be. At least not with this one anyway. My dermatologist prescribed me some antibiotics (which is similar to tetracycline) called Lymecycline. I took these for two weeks exactly, and I had no skin related side effects apart from a little dryness, but that was easily combated with a heavier moisturiser. 

The reason I had to stop taking these was because I was having other side effects that I couldn't handle. These included headaches, dizziness, and itchy skin. I was itchy on my face, arms, legs, torso, back. It was ridiculous! When I would pray and stand up after prostrating, I would be so dizzy I would fall side ways and end up hitting myself on a wall or a sofa or even the fan!

If you know me personally, you'd know I suffer from migraine attacks very frequently, but less so than before. Because of the fact that they had been getting less, I was very happy - but then I would get a different type of headache which lasted a lot longer and was painful in a different way, and the only thing I was taking that was different was the antibiotics.

Anyone who has had migraine attacks like mine will agree with me that you wouldn't wish them on your worst enemy, and I did NOT want to have any more headaches than I could take, so in the end I had to stop taking the antibiotics.

I managed to get another appointment with my dermatologist and she told me to stop taking the Lymecyline and prescribed me another antibiotic which is also in the same family of drugs, but I will post about  how I'm getting on with that in an other skincare update, seeing as I've only just received them, so I can't really tell you if I have any side effects yet!

Whewww, sorry about the length of this, I didn't realise I had so much to say! I might post another update in about two weeks, or maybe earlier depending on if these antibiotics work or not - hopefully they will, that way I won't have to go on anything harsher! (^__^)

Let me know in the comments below if you like posts like this, and/or if you have any questions about any of the topical creams or antibiotics I've used, or anything else related to this post - I'll try my best to answer it :o)

Chitchat: Eid, Summer, and Life in General~

Anneyong my lovelies! Hope you've all been well and you've enjoyed your summer (^__^) 

I thought I would post a little update since I haven't posted in a very long time~

Ever since Ramadan ended, I've been feeling a bit down and I just wasn't in the mood to blog as a result. When an honoured guest like that leaves, it's presence is missed greatly, because it's presence basically did take over my whole life. It's just one of those things. Eid was a little bittersweet because of how sad I was that Ramadan was over, and I didn't enjoy it as much as I should have. I'm looking forward to next years Ramadan already - I pray I live long enough to see it once again! >.<

I hope everyone else's Ramadan and Eid went well though, and if you aren't muslim I hope your summer has gone well! Sitting here typing this, I'm already wrapped in a blanket and a hoodie, it's that cold up north! While I did enjoy the heat, I think autumn and winter will always have a special place in my heart; there's just nothing like being wrapped up in a massive coat and boots, sipping on some hot chocolate, speaking through a woolly scarf wrapped around half my face whilst waddling to lecture first thing in the morning. xD

I think I've made the most of my summer this year, for once. I got work experience in various healthcare settings, went on trips to the seaside, to lakes, to parks. I applied and bagged a couple of volunteer jobs that were difficult to get, and spent a lot of time with my close friends and made many new ones.

I went to a lot of weddings, and learnt more about my culture and religion. I've always been into my religion, Islam, but never so much into my Pakistani culture.

I like how everyone looks after each other not only in the Muslim community but my Pakistani community too, and how good hospitality is central to our culture as well as our religion, not just to our own people but to others too. :o)

Another thing I learnt how to do this summer is learn how to be alone, and not feel lonely. Being lonely is something every human fears deep down inside, and it's something I've struggled with for a long time.

I never liked doing anything by myself, I'd always want someone to be with me at all times and would only go out alone if I had no choice but to do so; I guess I just didn't like the company of my own thoughts.. of myself.

Lately though, I've actually begun to like being alone, doing things alone. I no longer feel shy or weird going out for a coffee or shopping on my own. It's times like these where I feel at peace and at ease, because I've realised that I can go at my own pace, I don't have to hurry or be afraid I'm holding someone up. The lesson I've learned from this is that being alone does not mean being lonely - sometimes all I need for company is me myself and I (^__^)

Oh, and I actually managed to soaked up a lot of Vit D this summer too! Something I've been meaning to do for a long time, since I'm severely deficient and have been so for ages now.

This summer I only tanned on my hands and feet -_____- My face didn't feel like tanning so now I look very strange when I put my hands anywhere near my face haha!

Anyway, enough about what I have been doing. As much fun as it has been having nothing to do and going with the flow, I've already got loads of things planned for this year, and also the next! Let's pray that God is planning the same thing as I am, but if He isn't I'm sure He will have something even better than I could even dare to dream of planned instead, so I'm not too worried if my plans don't pan out. (^__^)

As for my blog, I'm definitely going to carry on with it. I might take breaks because ultimately, this is only a hobby and my degree and career is far more important to invest my time and effort in. But I will definitely still post as much as I can - in fact, I already have a few blog posts planned out, I just need to type them up :D

Goodness me, I've typed a whole load of waffle today haven't I? I just sat down and anything that came to mind spilled out. I hope I didn't bore you to tears and that you're not mad I haven't been posting for a while. (>.<) Mianhamnida (that's the formal way of saying I'm sorry in Korean ^.^), I will post more often now!

Anyhoo.. until next time, stay awesome my lovelies! ;D

On being a female in a Muslim household in Ramadan..

Girls. I need to rant about something. Y'all know how much I love fasting. It makes me sad when I can't. But it's that time of the month right now. And it's slap bang in the middle of our blessed month. Which means I can't fast. 

It also means I can eat whatever I want; but the thing is.. I just - I just CAN'T okay, it's really hard!! Not because I physically can't, or I feel like I should be fasting (although I do sometimes feel like the latter). No it's neither of those. It's just.. how do I eat without getting caught by the opposite gender? They're usually clueless about the whole period thing..

 Let me walk you through the awkwardness and problems I face when it comes to this issue and how I deal with it.. or how I try not to deal with should be much more an accurate of a description, LOL

At first, I try and eat stealthily. When they're in masjid, when they're at work, when they're napping. I tip toe across the creaky landing outside my room and lightly jump over a couple equally creaky stairs like a cat stalking its prey, flee to the kitchen and find something to eat that won't leave a mess, a scent or any dishes to wash. 

But then... *horror music* they come home early, or they wake up from their nap and instinctively walk to the kitchen for a snack and BAM they find you stuffing your face with Jaffa cakes with a cuppa on your right and a half eaten tube of Pringles on your left and time freezes for a moment and you're just stood there like AW POOP NO I'VE BEEN CAUGHT! 

So now what do I do? Do I flat out tell them the reason?

Me: ...

Them: OMG YOU'VE BROKEN YOUR FAST?! 

Me: ohai.. um.. yeah I'm on my er.. you know.. my erm... *mumbles* period..

Them: Your what?

Me: *flails at the prospect of having to explain menstruation to her 15 year old brother*

(or alternatively)

Them: Oh.. *awkward silence*

Me: *flails inwardly just as awkwardly*

DO YOU SEE WHAT I MEAN? If I wouldn't tell someone I'm on my period on a normal day, why am I going to tell them now?! Obviously I try to avoid this situation. I mean who wouldn't? Maybe someone who wasn't dropped in a pool of awkward as soon as they were born and can deal with stuff like this in a mature way.. heh.

The only alternative left is for me to not eat, or flat out lie by saying I'm ill. Or bring up a fruit basket* up into my room and put a lock on the door. 

*sigh*. #muslimgirlproblems

Luckily, (even though I don't believe in luck, I just couldn't find a better word) I have actually been ill and have been given some meds so I can just half lie and say the doctor told me not to fast if they ever catch me. xD Teehee! *rubs hands with glee*

How do you deal with your time of the month in Ramadan?

*And by fruit basket I mean a basket full of Jaffa Cakes. And Pringles. Lots of Pringles..

Something I've noticed about the beauty world this Ramadan..

WHY does EVERYTHING I own and use on a daily basis smell of delicious, mouthwatering food? 

Everything I use when I wake up in the morning or through the day smells of something fruity or foody, and it only makes my fast seem just that tiny bit harder..!

*shakes fist at pile of stuff*

Now I know what you're thinking. Mary, you're just hungry and missing food, that's all! You won't notice this after Ramadan, no need to be so grumpy!

But YOU GUYS!!

The Nivea lip butter smells (and tastes) like caramel popcorn, the Bath & Body Works hand sanitizer of strawberries, the Garnier Pure Active moisturiser of cucumbers, the Clean & Clear Morning Energy moisturiser of papaya and lemon, and the EOS lipbalm of lemon!

It's almost enough to make me not want to use any of my skincare stuff LOL!

Seriously though what I want to know is.. what is it with the obsession in the beauty industry with making everything so heavily, fruitily scented? 

Actually I don't even know why I'm asking that question - I already know the answer.. 

I mean, DO YOU GUYS HAVE ANY IDEA HOW MUCH I LOVE LEMON FLAVOURED/SCENTED THINGS? I'm a slave to anything remotely related to lemon (T__T)

*sobs*

I mean, I'm pretty sure we don't need any of the scent the manufacturers put in the products, but let's be honest with ourselves. If you like the look of something.. and it also smells drool worthy.. you know you're more likely to end up popping that in your basket. Am I right? You know it's true! 

Well.. it is for me anyway.. (>.<)

Blaaaaaah. Maybe I am just being a bit grumpy. Someone tell me I'm right about whole scent thing, I mean it really is in almost every product we use (o.O) 

*sighs* I don't know. I'm off to eat some fruit chaat. Toodles!

(Oh and btw - it's a good thing I'm not using the EOS lipbalm anymore, I'm pretty sure I had an allergic reaction to it, it made my lips itchy and sore. :[ made me sad because I was really looking forward to using it!)

Disclaimer: I bought this with my own money. All opinions are my own, I swear^^

The Face Shop New Zealand Volcanic Clay Black Head Charcoal Nose Strip Review

Hello there everyone~ Or should I say Anneyong, chingu-deul! Today I will be reviewing the New Zealand Volcanic Clay Black Head Charcoal Nose Strip's from The Face Shop (^__^)

The Face Shop is a Korean brand, and so far I have bought two items from their selection of skincare items - these and the Herb Day 365 Cleansing Foam.

Now, the last time I tried nose strips.. well.. it didn't go well. At ALL. They just didn't work for me and they made my skin worse. If you would like to read that particular review, you can click here to see my little rant on it xD

I know what you're thinking. If you had such a bad experience with nose strips the first time, why on earth would you go back for another round?! Well if I'm honest with you, I have no idea. Actually, no that's a lie. My love for looking at cute Korean skincare and beauty things on Ebay ended up making me click on the purchase button and well.. here I am two months later sat typing this review with one plastered on my nose. :D

Gosh, everything about Korean stuff seems so much more appealing to me, packaging wise especially! I love the little description about where the mud in the nose strip comes from, what the mud contains and how it helps your skin. I'll look past the slightly incorrect grammar because I'm biased and yeah. xD

At the back, while all the instructions are written in hangul, they've given a handy step by step illustration as well. So if you're a foreigner who doesn't know a word of Korean (or english!) and you're looking to try this, they've made it easy for you figure out what it is and how to use it ! (^__^)

Inside, you get 7 strips - which is one more than the Biore nose strips I reviewed last time, AND they only cost me £3.54 as opposed to the £7.99 I wasted on the Biore ones! Sure it takes a week to ten days to get here but at least they worked :D

Onto the actual product^^ When you open up the little satchet, you can immediately smell the charcoal - the scent is REALLY strong, so if you aren't a fan of that, I suggest you steer clear of these!

In case you don't know even from the instructions at the back of the packet, here they are: wet your nose, take off the clear backing and put the sticky side on the bridge of your wet nose. Leave on for 10-15 minutes.
I find that, on my face, after about 7/8 minutes it has almost dried but I leave it on for ten minutes because usually I'm doing stuff whilst I have it on. Hash tag multitasking ;D oh yeah~~

This, unlike the Biore one actually does get rid of my blackheads! It also doesn't aggravate my skin and does not cause breakouts on my nose either, something that happened with the Biore ones. It leaves the skin on my nose feeling very soft and smooth. Overall, I'd give this a 4/5, one point deducted for the grammar :P

Can you tell I didn't like the Biore ones much..? Yeah, I really, REALLY hated them. Unlike these, which I recommend wholeheartedly if you have blackheads and an oily T-zone! Here is the link to the ebay seller where I bought them from (and will soon repurchase!). If you try them out, do let me know how you found them (^__^) 

Till next time, toodles! :o)

Disclaimer: I bought this with my own money. All opinions are my own, I swear^^