At Latest in Beauty, there’s nothing we love more than catching up on our favourite blogs and reading through all of the posts, photos and feedback on our Build-Your-Own beauty box selection. It’s so exciting for us when bloggers and influencers share their must-have Latest in Beauty discoveries, therefore each month we like to chat to one of them right here on the blog. This month we caught up with B from beauty blog, A Love Affair With Beauty.
Q
Tell us a bit about your blog and what we’d expect to read?
A
I started A Love Affair with Beauty because I wanted a change from my everyday work. I’m a cancer research scientist by day, so being able to come home and write about something entirely different is incredibly therapeutic. My blog posts are a mixture of in-depth reviews of the latest products, swatches and makeup looks, as well as anything I love so much I simply must share. From affordable products to explaining why it’s worth it to splash a bit more cash, I want you to know every detail. I also like to discuss deeper issues such as health and body positivity. Ultimately, I want people to feel as if they could be speaking to a friend. Someone who is relatable and will tell them the truth.
Q
What does beauty mean to you?
A
Beauty to me has always been about being yourself. I think it’s important to remember that beauty isn’t just about makeup, it’s about being your most confident, comfortable you. Sometimes for me that can mean going glamourous with a full on smoky eye and false lashes or just relaxing without a scrap of makeup. Either way it’s those moments that I feel myself that I feel most beautiful.
Q
Your go-to make-up look is...
A
Natural with a nude lip. I like to think I’m really daring and bold with my makeup but the truth is you can’t beat the classics. Currently, I’m all about a flawless dewy base. My go to products are Armani Luminous Silk Foundation, Bourjois Healthy Mix Anti-Fatigue Concealer and Charlotte Tilbury Flawless Filter (try it, it’s incredible). I finish off with my favourite Vita Liberata bronzer to liven up my complexion and Burt’s Bees lipstick in shade 501 Blush.
Q
Favourite discovery from your latest LiB box?
A
It would have to be the 7th heaven glove masks. I’ve never tried anything like them before and they worked wonders. Working in a laboratory, I wash my hands several times a day and it can really take its toll on my skin. After popping these on for twenty minutes, I couldn’t believe how soft my hands were afterwards. I’ll definitely be getting more of these, after all why should masks just be for your face right?
Q
Most overrated product you’ve discovered recently is…
A
The Hourglass Illusion Hyaluronic Skin Tint. I purchased this thinking it would be the perfect summer base, providing me with even coverage and sun protection. Unfortunately, it really didn’t live up to expectations.
The spf makes this product thick, difficult to blend and it only seems to exacerbate my oily skin. It’s also a tad on the orange side, making me look more oompa loompa than the sun-kissed goddess I’d envisioned. It’s just not worth the hefty price tag. Sorry Hourglass.
Q
What’s your favourite beauty hack?
A
I like to use egg cups to hold my beauty blenders. Previously when I’ve applied foundation I struggled to find where to put it that wouldn’t ruin my dressing table. Popping it in an egg cup not only stops it rolling around but allows the sponge to dry properly after washing. Plus, there are so many nice designs, you can buy one to suit your style, or just stick it in a Postman Pat one like mine.
Q
Best piece of beauty advice you've ever received?
A
If you have oily skin, don’t be afraid to use facial oils. It seems counterproductive but since including them in my daily skin routine, I’ve noticed a huge difference. My skin feels supple, less dry and a lot less greasy at the end of the day. My favourite is the Optimal Skin ProSerum by ESPA. Oh and drink more water, I need to start drinking more water.
Q
Your signature scent is...
A
My signature scent would have to be Pomegranate Noir by Jo Malone. It’s fruity yet sensual and I like to think it makes me cooler than I am. No matter when I wear it I feel confident and it always gives me that little extra je ne sais quoi. In fact, I’m quite proud of myself for wearing it so often that even my family and friends associate this fragrance with me!
A
My perfect way to relax must include three things: a face mask, a cup of tea and some trashy TV. I loved
the MaskerAide sheet mask I selected in my latest LiB box. It gave my skin some much needed hydration and felt very relaxing. As for TV programmes, well let’s see there’s RuPaul’s Drag Race, Gilmore Girls which I’ve watched fifty billion times and of course Love Island. I’m also open to any recommendations..
Q
If you could curate your own dream beauty box, what would it include and why?
A
I’d have to include a range of beauty products from skincare to makeup. All these products are firm
favourites of mine that I couldn’t live without:
Rodial Vit C Brightening Cleanser – anything Rodial is top of my list but this cleanser is perfect in every
way.
Pixi Beauty Rose Flash Balm – It smells so fresh and delicate and always makes my skin feel moisturized
without being weighed down.
Spectrum Collections makeup brushes – They’re super soft, easy to use and cruelty free.
Ciate Golden Sands nail polish – A gorgeous nude that has a slight gold sparkle perfect for any occasion. Although all Ciate polishes are beautiful.
Sleek i-Divine eyeshadow palette in All Night Long – I chose this in my LiB box and the colours are stunning. Each shade is buttery soft and blends like a dream.
Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara – not too wet, this mascara provides some much needed volume to my stumpy eyelashes.
Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream – The scent of this cream reminds me of tropical beaches and holiday getaways.
Finally, 7th Heaven glove masques. Have I mentioned I liked those?!
Check out B’s post and get all the inspiration and tips from her latest LiB box selections before creating your own box! Don’t forget to share the love using #LoveLiB!
