Wednesday 4 November 2015

Shea Moisture now in Boots


Sorry guys, I'm  a bit late with this post but hopefully by now, you all know that you can pick up your amazing Shea Moisture products, in your local Boots store. Yes, I said it, Boots. How amazing is that? No more shipping fees and less hassle, trying to find a hair shop, that supplies them. Amen to that.
The beginning of this year I had, had enough of the state my hair was in and decided I was going to start taking care of it. Since the age of around 14, I've been addicted to dying my hair. When I say addicted, I mean addicted! As a result of this and continuously using the hair enemy straighteners, I've been left with really dry hair and split ends. I have now cut out any form of heat and I'm now trying to embrace my curls.

Through research and watching lots of Youtube video's, peoples favourite curly hair products, that came up the most, were the Shea Moisture products.
Shea Moisture has a wide range of products catering for different needs. Some of the popular hair care ranges are listed below,
  • African Black Soap
  • Coconut and Hibiscus
  • Fruit Fusion
  • Jamaican Black Castor Oil
  • Raw Shea Butter
  • Super-fruit Complex
The products not only smell amazing but natural, certified organic and ethically sourced ingredients are used to help and solve hair and skin concerns and the products do what they claim to say.


I was happy to attend the Shea Moisture launch party for boots and I had an amazing time, meeting my fellow natural hair girls.
I'm so happy they have finally launched in the U.K and cannot wait to try out, even more of there amazing products. I've literally fallen in love with Shea Moisture!





Check out the Shea Moisture website, where you can see all the other collections they provide. You can also order your products on the Boots website

Monday 19 October 2015

NYX Cosmetics


Ever since I started watching Youtube videos, to help me learn how to actually apply my makeup properly, I've been hearing everyone rant and rave about the NYX brand. All the Youtuber's got me sucked in and I decided I wanted to give the brand a try. The lip products have been featured in so many video's and I'm obsessed with lip products.
I was so disappointed when I realised how difficult it would be, to get my hands on them.


Last month I travelled to Las Vegas and you already know what was on the top of my list, for things to buy. I went into three different shops, on more than one occasion and each and every time, the majority of products were always sold out *cries* but I managed to pick up just a few items.

I absolutely love the variety of lip products and colours they come in. They're so inexpensive and great value. I want loads more. They are now my favourite makeup brand.

Just a few of my new goodies

This year in the U.K, you can now buy NYX products on the Very website Also, the Feel Unique website are now selling the brand. I have literally just found out that Boots.com will be launching the face products in a few days. Exciting times! The temptation is to real.
They currently have a pop up shop in the London Selfridges store. Get down there quick though because it will unfortunately be gone by the end of October.

I was lucky enough to receive a goody bag, containing some of the NYX products at the bloggers UK awards and was able to purchase some bits, at the pop up shop on the day. Let me know if you want a haul, review or even just a picture of all my new NYX products x



NYX, hurry up and open a store in London. The demand here is crazy!
Let me know if you would like a review, on any of the products x

Tuesday 13 October 2015

Am I over depression?



Growing up, I hardly remember hearing the word depression, and definitely didn't know anyone, who openly went through it. Although I knew what depression was, it took me ages to actually identify, that I was going though it.
After 8 years, I can now look back and identify why and where, things started to go down hill for me. For a long time, I questioned myself and wondered what was happening.
I could try and explain to you what its like, going through depression but honestly, I don't think you will fully understand, unless you go through it, or live with someone who is going through it.

There was a time where, I didn't even want to get back to being my normal self. I was so lost and confused. I couldn't see how life could ever get better. I gave up on everything and no longer wanted to be here.

Things started to slightly change, when I noticed how my unpredictable behavior, was affecting my immediate family and seeing my mum break down, begging me to get help. I genuinely didn't want help but there's nothing I wouldn't do for my mum and it broke my heart, to see her in that state. At that point, I had no support besides my mum and two brothers. I no longer had any friends and no longer had a job. I had nothing.
I finally plucked up the courage, to go and see my doctor with my mum. It was really hard and emotional but it was the first step, of getting my life back together. My doctor had a long conversation with us and offered me counseling. For me, counseling was a straight no no. I was never the type to talk to people about my problems, so talking to a complete stranger would have made me feel way to uncomfortable. I had previously heard about antidepressants but it was always in a negative way. Ive never been one to not do something because of what everyone else had to say and I decided that this was my best option. About a week later, I could already feel the difference within myself. I  was a lot more fidgety because I had more energy and I started to want to leave my room and socialise with my family a bit more.

Anyway enough of that gloomy stuff. Fast forward, I have been on antidepressants for about 7/8 years now and depression has been a constant battle. I have had so many relapses and gone back to that dark place but recently things have changed for the better. I have stopped feeling sorry for myself and I am on a constant journey, of trying to change my mind frame and become more confident and positive. I have also lowed my dosage of antidepressants for the second time but this time its going well. Sometimes I look back on my life and even though to a lot of people, my life probably seems basic, for me, I have come a very long way.
There was a time where I literally stayed in bed, in my dark bedroom and didn't see or speak to anyone for weeks. I lost a lot of weight because I barely ate. I would only leave my room to use the bathroom and grab a drink, when my family would be out or sleeping.

I am now back to working, blogging, socialising, meeting new people, making new friends and in a relationship.  Trust me when I say, I never ever thought the day would come, when I could do such simple things.
Its great to reflect back on life sometimes and acknowledge, your achievements, no matter how small they may be.

So, am I over depression? I think I am. I still get really worried/stressed about things but I'm learning how to deal with things. I plan on coming off of my medication, by the end of the year. I'm kind of scared but also proud and excited lol, wish me luck guys.

Please be positive and things will get better. I am living proof that you can one day overcome depression. Please feel free to message me, if you want to talk or have any questions.

There is light at the end of the tunnel xxx

Sunday 2 August 2015

My Skin And Me

Hey guys, I've decided to open up to you all and share something, that very few people, have noticed about me. Opening up and talking about my issues and insecurities, has never been something I'm fond of doing but I've realised, I have absolutely nothing to be afraid of, so what the heck, why not?

Later this month I'll be heading to Vegas, for a close friends wedding. I'm really excited, that I'll be there to witness her wedding and I'm happy, that I finally get to travel to America but one thing has been playing on my mind.

I have what you call Folliculitis, also known as strawberry skin. The effected areas are all over my legs and arms. You're probably confused and wondering what the hell is that.
Well, Folliculitis is inflammation, occurring at the hair follicle. It appears on the skin as little dark/red spots, that sometimes look like a rash, when irritated.
I cant exactly remember when I first started to notice it but I think it started when, I began to start shaving.
To be real with you, having strawberry skin has knocked my confidence, so much, that I cant even explain how paranoid I am about it.
I never show  my arms, when I'm around people because I'm paranoid, that people will look and wonder what it is. I rarely show my legs but I don't think they look as bad, so its not much of an issue.



I suffer in the summer months the most because of this, as I find it hard to buy clothes, that will allow me to keep cool but covered up.

Vegas is coming up and I've really been struggling, to find the perfect outfits and swimwear, as it's going to be scorching  hot. I've always wanted, to be able to wear nice sleeveless tops/dresses, like everyone else but I also want to be able, to feel comfortable in my own skin.
To make things worse, my bridesmaid dress is a sleeveless, one shoulder maxi. I need a boost of confidence asap!

I recently came across a product, Sally Hansen's Air brush spray for legs. Its described as makeup for your legs. You know I had to buy it!
Hopefully, I'll be enjoying myself way to much, to even care and eventually grow some confidence and not care about what other people think.

You can buy it here http://www.feelunique.com/p/Sally-Hansen-Airbrush-Legs-122g

A lot of you will probably feel like I'm over reacting (as I've been told) but we all have insecurities and different ways of dealing with them. Mine is to hide them.

I would love, to hear about any insecurities, that you guys might have had and are now over.

Monday 20 July 2015

Dead Sea Spa Magik at the LNO show


Hey guys, just wanted to let you know about an amazing experience I had, a few weeks ago, at the Love Natural Organic show.
I was able to attend the show with a couple other lovely blogging girls, who I have recently met. To be honest, I didn't have a clue what to expect, as I wasn't told much but I knew it was some kind of event, that promotes, all things organic and natural and that was enough for me to want to go. I was also, looking forward to the hand massage, that I had been booked in for.




I arrived at Dead Sea Spa Magik and I instantly felt welcomed and comfortable, by the beautiful ladies. I had my arms and hands exfoliated, followed by a massage, using the Deep Sleep Lavender Bath Salts, 6 Oil Super Serum and the Triple Oil Shea body butter. Massages, oils and body butters are my thing, so this was right up my ally. 

From left to right- 6-Oil Super Serum, Triple Oil Shea Body Butter, Deep Sleep Lavender Bath Salts


Body Butter 

 Bath Salt


Super Serum


I literally couldn't believe how soft my skin felt and the smell of all three products, are amazing. The lavender smell, is suppose to make you feel relaxed and the smell of Shea butter is just nice lol. 
The massage was definitely the highlight of my day, I literally could have sat there for ages because I felt so relaxed. The lovely ladies, were kind enough to give me a bag, with all three products (thank you) and I have been using them constantly. I tend to use the salts and oil in my bath, then moisturise after with the body butter.




If you're a sucker for spa products, or looking for a way to help you relax, then  I would differently recommend these products, I couldn't be more satisfied with them! I will be purchasing more, as they are inexpensive but effective. I'll be keeping my eye out, on all the other products, they produce. 
You can pick up and learn more about Dead Sea Spa Magik products in Debenhams, Tesco, Holland and Barret and also John Lewis. 


Wednesday 8 July 2015

The Body Shop (Tea Tree range)

Right to left- Skin Clearing Foaming Cleanser, Skin Clearing Toner & Skin Clearing Lotion.
All suitable for blemished skin.

We all have insecurities and my main one, is my blemishes. Even though I get told, I have soft smooth skin, I also have, very sensitive skin and a very oily t-zone, which I absolutely hate.
I guess I'm kind of lucky, that I don't get spots often and when I do, they are barely noticeable. My problem is scarring. No matter what I put on a spot, to help get rid of it, I always end up, with a ugly, dark circle on my face. Can you feel my pain, or am I exaggerating? 

I hate being insecure about this and I really don't want to get to the point where, I feel like I cant ever leave my house, without foundation on. Recently I've been feeling super insecure and decided to do some research, as I've never actually had a skin care regime. I previously used to, clean my makeup off, with a wet wipe, or makeup remover, wash my face with soap and cream it with Palmer's coco butter.

I'm going to try a few different things out but for now, I'm trying The Body Shop Tea Tree range, (which you can buy here) http://www.thebodyshop.co.uk/search.aspx?search=tea%20tree%20range#/search.aspx?search=tea%20tree%20range as I have read and heard amazing things about these products.
I ordered these three products online and they had a 30% or 40% off code, which I was happy about.

I love how the cleanser and toner makes my skin feel amazingly clean and dries out the excess oil. The cleanser claims that the foam instantly removes impurities and excess oil, for clearer looking skin.
I use my hands to apply the cleanser which comes out very foamy and dries into the skin. I leave it on for roughly five minutes, then wash it of,f with a cotton pad and warm water. I then apply the toner, which claims to sweep away traces of impurities for clearer looking skin and leaves skin looking mattified. with a cotton pad and also leave that on for another five minutes. You need to shake the bottle well because it has product, that sits at the bottom of the bottle and needs to be mixed well, for it to work. You feel a slight tingle when applying the product, but its not an uncomfortable feeling. In fact, I kind of like it lol.
I use the skin clearing lotion after and honestly, I'm not sure if its actually needed. I think I need to find a really good, matifying face moisturiser.
I haven't noticed any of my blemishes fading yet but I'm going to continue using these products and add a few other things to my regime, as its only been a bit longer than a month, since I started.

Are you insecure about your blemishes? Let me know what products you use to help fade them, so I can try them out. 

Monday 15 June 2015

Sky Garden

So last month on the 18th, I turned 25. Yes I said it, 25. I regularly get told that I still look 18 but my gosh, I'm starting to feel old lol. I'm at that stage in life, where I feel a bit of pressure, to get my life completely together. I think it's really bad that we put a time on everything.

Anyway the evening before my actual birthday, me and my partner visited the Sky Garden. You can book your visit online here sky garden Tickets are currently free but I have a feeling that they wont always be, after all, this is London. We arrived at 7:30pm and went through a airport type security check, then took the lift up to the 53rd floor. As you step out of the lift, you are faced with a massive window, with the views across London. The gardens are on both sides of the rooftop, with a bar serving drinks and bar food in the centre. They also have the sky pod, where you can eat but you have to book well in advance, as it gets booked up really quick.
The Sky Garden has a cosmopolitan atmosphere but felt really relaxed when we sat down, to drink our cocktails. The view and architecture here is amazing and my pictures really doesn't give it justice.

If you're a sucker for a nice view, like me and enjoy cocktails, then make sure you book your trip, whilst it's still free. I've just booked my second visit and I'll be taking more/better pictures.










Wednesday 13 May 2015

Makeup 3 for 2

I was walking past a Superdrug store, about two or three weeks ago and I couldn't resist walking in, when I saw that they had the three for two offer, on all makeup products (boots also does this offer).
I know I'm not the only one that can't wait to get home, to test out your new makeup lol.

This is what I ended up buying.


Yes I know I'm late on buying the Maybeline gel eyeliner, but I finally have it.
I instantly fell in love with it. Girls this is a must have product, I wish I had purchased it sooner. It comes with a two end applicator which is great, if you're like me and don't have a lot of makeup brushes. (I have my eyes on the Zoeva brush sets). One end of the applicator is to define and the other end is to smudge, which helps to create the perfect liner or wing. This gel glides on smoothly and you only need to add the tiniest amount to the brush. The colour is super black and claims to last up to 24 hours. Loving it.
You can find this product here; http://www.superdrug.com/Maybelline/Maybelline-Eye-Studio-Gel-Liner-Black/p/249975



Ladies, if you have short eye lashes like me, this L'oreal volume million lashes in black mascara is for us. I hate how short my lashes are, so I always look for mascara's that will add major length, without them clumping together. I have tried other mascara's but I'm yet to find any that compares to this one. It gives me so much length and I've been asked a few times, what product I use because people have noticed how clump free it is. This is a repurchase and I'll continue to buy it until I find something that is better or compares. You can find this product here; http://www.superdrug.com/L%27Oreal-Paris/L%27Oreal-Volume-Million-Lashes-Mascara-Black/p/207102



My final product is the Revlon colour stay foundation which is also a repurchase. I've been using the Mac studio fix foundation for some years and a few months ago I decided, I wanted to try something different. After doing loads of research on drug store brands, this foundation seemed very popular. I wanted a foundation that works well for oily skin, as I have a very oily T-zone. I was happy when I found out that this foundation, caters to people with oily skin and they also have one that caters to people with normal skin. How great is that? One thing that is not so great about this, is that they do not cater to a wide range of skin complexions. I was lucky enough to pick this up in the shade caramel, which is the darkest colour I have come across. It's a medium to full coverage but it doesn't feel heavy on the face once applied. I still get a bit of shine through out the day but I touch it up with a bit of powder.

I really need to buy a good primer.
I've heard really great things about the Estee L'audore double wear foundation, so I think I'll give that a try next.

If you know of any great products for oily skin, please let me know.





Sunday 3 May 2015

State of mind

Hmm where do I even start...?
My state of mind, has been all over the place recently. I think it's because I want so much for myself and I get annoyed when, things don't work out, or take really long to progress. I can be really hard on myself at times but I keep trying to remind myself that, the changes I want to make in my life, are not going to happen over night.
I have recently been looking back, over the past 7-8 years of my life (when I was first diagnosed with depression) and I feel proud about how far I've come. The past 8 years have been a roller-coaster but today I can say, I am the strongest I have been in a while. Although I am still going through depression and I am still on medication, I feel like I am slowly becoming me again.

These books were given to me

Here is my issue... Recently I've been struggling with motivation. Some days I can be completely buzzing about life, full of energy, feeling positive and wanting to get everything done and the following day, I'll wake up and become extremely demotivated, feeling negative and not wanting to do a dam thing.
I really dislike feeling like this.
My next step is to find a way of dealing with it, instead of letting it defeat me. I feel like people judge me and tend to think I'm lazy, which I hate. I guess its hard for some people, to understand what I'm currently going through.
I plan on trying to stay motivated and I really want to start blogging often.

Stay motivated and have a great week guys xx

Tuesday 17 March 2015

A pop of colour

Hi guys, here's a lipstick haul, for those of you, who love a pop of colour, just as much as I do.

The thing that excites me the most about makeup, is definitely lipstick!
I swear, I'm like a little kid in a candy shop, when I see a lipstick counter. I just cant help myself.
I feel like lipstick can change your whole look.
On a regular day, and I do have a lot of those, I tend to go for the basic look, usually only wearing foundation, powder, mascara and filling in my eyebrows but as soon as I add a bit of colour to my lips, I automatically feel made up and even a bit sexy lol.

I absolutely love Mac lipsticks but recently I've been indulging in drugstore brands. You'll be surprised at how good, the quality is on some of them.
The packaging is not a deal breaker for me but you have to admit, sleek pretty products, is what draws us in.

Here are my fave lip products at the moment.

Left to right: Mac Rebel, Mac Taupe, Mac Flat out fabulous & Revlon Va Va Violet 663

Rebel is my favourite red shade, it's not to dark and it's not to bright, almost a deep berry colour and has a satin finish. Whenever I'm in a Mac store, my eyes always gravitate towards this and I always end up picking it up, even though I already have it. I would recommend you all, to at least swatch it. I tend to wear Rebel, on a night out, when I'm out shopping, or for lunch dates, with my friends.

Taupe has a matte finish but I feel like it doesn't mattify, as much as some other matte lipsticks do, from Mac but I actually like that about this lippy. It's a reddish,  brown nude shade and I think it compliments my complexion well. I wear this on my regular days, when I'm not up to much.
Honestly, I haven't tried many nude shades because I find it a bit tricky. Velvet Teddy, is the next nude, I think I may try.

Flat Out Fabulous is my all time favourite! It has a retro matte finish and It's bluish-tone, fuchsia pigmentation is incredible. This colour is very bold, which I tend to stay away from, believe it or not, but I just cant get enough of it. I have noticed that this shade looks slightly different on different skin tones. I usually wear this, when I'm wearing all black or a simple outfit. Wearing this lipstick, makes me feel less of a plain Jane.

Revlon Va Va Violet is actually my latest lipstick purchase. You can pick it up in Superdrug for £7.49. It's a dark purple and is described to have a silky-smooth, creamy texture. I really like the sleek packaging. I haven't had a chance to wear it yet but I know I'll be wearing it, on a night out, with winged eyeliner. 


Revlon color burst 215 Shameless & Mac Prep Prime
Revlon color burst is a velvety matte balm. I love love love this retractable crayon! It glides on over my lips so smoothly, considering its matte. It has a minty smell to it, the pigmentation is amazing and it stays on for ages, without having to reapply. The ingredients include triple complex of Shea, Mango and Coconut Butter, which explains why this product is so moisturising.  I definitely have a thing for purple lip products but I'm excited to try a few more colours from this range.

Mac prep prime is a colour-free base coat, that you apply before your lipstick. It smoothes out the lips and helps to keep the lipstick on for longer. I recommend this, for anyone who suffers with dry/chapped lips, it really makes a difference. This is a must have for me.

I'm on the hunt for a subtle pink lipstick. I've tried a few and I've felt like they've made my lips look dry.
If any of you have had this problem but have found a shade that works well for you, I would love and appreciate some recommendations.



Monday 9 March 2015

About me


So guys, I'm Janet, even though I've been very hesitant, I've finally decided to make this blog.
*Deep breath* bare with me guys this is a big step…
This is Memoirs Of A Brave Face… together, we will be going through fashion and beauty posts because, I am a woman after all and just like you, I love it too but on the other hand, I will also be giving you all, a part of real life situations. Being 24 years old, life is not always rosy, as you may already know and if you don’t, then here is your heads up. I’ve been putting on a brave face, trying to deal with depression, for some time now, but very few people around me, are actually aware of it. I am happy to say, today is not that day though. * I think blogging could actually be quite therapeutic for me and for people who can relate…hmmm who knows/lets see.
Please please please feel free to send me a message, public, private whatever works for you but I would rather not just speak to myself each week…but I will if I have too lol