Nude is still hot...just not as we know it

Although looking distinctly undone may not be as On Trend this season, there is a new twist on this oh-so-popular makeup look, based firmly on the ‘barely there’ philosophy. Keeping an uber natural palette is still the key to pulling off the best nude look, but makeup should now be seen. Take foundation- the full coverage kind is now desirable again, leaving your face looking perfectly polished. How about lips? Make a statement- not with bold, loud colours but with smooth, matte finishes in muted tones. Nude is still hot... just not as we know it.

Vapour Atmosphere Soft Focus Foundation (£41) balances all skin types and provides a buildable, medium to full coverage. This revolutionary formula lets your skin breathe but with a finish described as ‘flawless’ and ‘worth every penny’ by our reviewers (read them for yourself if you don’t believe us!) the difference between using this product and going bare faced is more than a little noticeable, yet still ultimately gives you a natural look. Perfect!

Go for a lipstick in a sophisticated nude shade to accentuate the lips in an understated yet obviously groomed way. Ilia Lipstick (£19.95) in shade ‘Funnel of Love’ would be my choice. In a yummy soft nude with peach undertones and inspired by the look of the iconic Brigitte Bardot, this one is a winner and ideal for this look. 

The main effect of a smoky eye is the definition it gives your peepers, but you can still accentuate the eye area with a neutral palette.  Dr Hauschka Eyeshadow Palette 01 (£31.95) gives you everything you need to create a defined chic look. For daytime or night, the four shades of brown glide and blend seamlessly; creating a beautiful finish has never been easier.

Shop for makeup here:Naturisimo

KEEP BALM AND CARRY ON

We seem to think that a complicated system always has to be better. By layering numerous products on our skin on a daily basis, we must be giving it everything it needs and then some, right? Surely this HAS to be the way to go? Well, not necessarily.

I am all for embracing advances in skincare, and as a self confessed beauty addict I am the first to admit to using my fair share of products regularly. But sometimes simplicity wins hands down and Balm Balm does exactly that.

I have to say that the price of these products is really quite fantastic when you consider what you are getting. 100% organic, 100% natural and Soil Association certified, Balm Balm founder Glenda Taylor aimed to make a range like this accessible to all. It is hardly surprising that with her wealth of expertise the products perform well too. 

The ingredients list on every product is simple to understand; personally, that is something I LOVE to see when looking at products. Not only that but many of the products are multi-purpose. In addition to the all over balms (as the name would suggest these can be used, well, all over), many of the other products can be used in numerous ways too. Take the Balm Balm Face Balm (£6.99) for example. Use it as a cleanser, as a moisturiser, or as a balm to smooth lips or tackle dry skin patches. This highlights the purity of the formulations perfectly; they can be used in so many ways.

My personal fave? Balm Balm Coconut Cleanser (£13.25) Although an oil formulation, the product still cleanses well, works perfectly on my combination skin and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive. If you are keen to try the range, then Balm Balm Organic Facial Kit (£13.25) would be a good buy. The set contains 4 products plus a muslin cloth, for under £15. That has to be worth a go!

Buy the range here: Balm Balm

Immune Defence for winter months

Did you know that most adults have at least two to three colds each year, while children have as many as six to eight? It is hardly surprising that with more than 200 viruses that cause colds, we sometimes need a boost, when feeling under the weather is likely. Prevention is better than cure, so try to beat the cold or flu before it even takes hold with some of our great supplements for immune defence.

Organic Burst Spirulina (£10.90) is a completely pure powder, easily digested and has a pleasant taste. A microscopic plant that has served as nourishment for 3.6 billion years, it contains a full spectrum of nutrients: beta-carotene, iron, calcium, magnesium, Vitamin B complex, chlorophyll, complete protein, GLA and more.

Patrick Holford ImmuneC (£9.75) is the perfect immune support supplement. It contains optimum amounts of Vitamin C, Zinc and now with double strength of the powerful antioxidants black elderberry and ginger, to support your body’s natural defences. Take 1 tablet twice daily to give you that extra lift you need when feeling run down.

Even with the best of intentions and preventative measures in place, sometimes illness cannot be avoided. Viridian White Willow (£6.60) often called ‘herbal aspirin’ is a traditional remedy used to relieve all sorts of symptoms including fever, headaches and muscle pain. It has been scientifically shown to relieve chronic pain, so it is worth trying before reaching for more conventional drugs. For sore throats, Viridian Organic Elderberry Throat Spray (£14.75) offers a natural and convenient therapy, to relieve symptoms associated with throat infections.

Take care this winter, and lets hope for an illness-free season!

Shop here: Immune Defence

Introducing Lucy Annabella Organics

Lucy Annabella Organics is a stunning addition for us here at Naturisimo. It is always nice for us to have something new and this range doesn’t disappoint. Invigorate the mind and soothe your body with these beautiful products.

The range offers a completely indulgent experience, and a healthy one at that. Only the finest organic ingredients make it into these products, all formulated, blended, manufactured and bottled in Tyrone, Ireland. Even the packaging itself is of the highest quality; beautiful glass bottles and lovely boxes to match. The style is elegant and sophisticated, as are the scents.

The Lucy Annabella Niaouli & Lavender Candle (£25) has to be my favourite product. I am loving candles at the moment and this one looks so gorgeous, fit for any home. The scent, although delicate, is truly divine. Created using 100% soya wax, a pure cotton wick and organic essential oils, this natural candle will burn for up to 50 hours if looked after correctly.

The rest of the range consists of serious luxury body care. Take the Lucy Annabella Argan & Frankincense Treatment Oil (£28) for example. This aromatic oil can be applied every evening for best results. Soothing and intensely nourishing, this product will leave your skin deeply enriched without feeling greasy.

These products are presented beautifully, smell amazing and contain the best ingredients. We love it!

Buy the range here: Lucy Annabella Organics

Bring Back Bath Time!

Many of us just don’t have the time to enjoy a nice long bath on a regular basis. But bath time can be a great escape from life’s stresses, and a time dedicated all to you. So bring back bath time and indulge with some of our delightful bath time treats.

Tisserand Detox Bath Oil (£8.10) is designed to improve circulation and help eliminate toxins. This hand blended oil contains ginger oil, organic lemongrass oil and rosemary oil, to stimulate and help improve and smooth skin texture.

Deep Steep Honeydew & Spearmint Bubble Bath (£9.95) is superb value for money at this price, for a whopping 517ml bottle! This bubble bath creates lots of fragrant bubbles without any harsh surfactants or chemicals. Ideal for all ages and skin types, pour a few capfuls under running water, soak and relax. The smell is refreshing yet relaxing all at once.

If you REALLY want indulgence, then Neom Tranquillity Bath Oil (£32) fits the bill. The scent is peaceful and de-stressing, with English Lavender, Sweet Basil & Jasmine. Jojoba and Vitamin E leaves your skin soft, glowing and toxin free, making this oil perfect for a pampering treatment. One to two capfuls is enough for a relaxing and luxurious experience.

Shop for bath time here: Bath