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Dupe: MUA Undressed vs. UD Naked Palette

MUA Undressed Palette & Urban Decay Naked Palette
I love seeing dupe posts on beauty blogs, and I recently acquired MUA’s Undressed palette, 
which is supposedly a dupe of Urban Decay’s Naked palette, so I thought I would do my own. 
From the start it’s easy to see where MUA got their inspiration from.
With Urban Decay’s palette at almost 10x the price (£36) of MUA’s (£4), I was certainly curious. 
After putting the two palettes side-by-side I was shocked and also a little amused at how similar the shades are.
True, MUA’s palette does not look as ‘high end’ as Urban Decay’s but it’s simple and clean – it also comes with a double ended applicator, but no primer unlike UD – although MUA’s primer is only £1.50.
Also, the UD palette is heavier, and not as easy to transport as MUA’s.
Anyway, onto the reason why you’re all here…
The following swatches come courtesy of my fiancé who allowed me to use his forearm as a model.
MUA’s £1.50 eyeshadow primer was used as a base before applying these.
Top row: MUA Undressed Palette
Bottom row: Urban Decay Naked Palette
The proof is in the picture.
Honestly, apart from a couple of the matte browns, the MUA shadows are pretty much identical.
A primer is needed with the MUA shades, but I don’t think anyone would expect anything else from a £4 palette.
I am incredibly impressed with how similar these are, and with previous experience with MUA palettes they are definitely worth the money. When used with a primer, they are long lasting and the colour stays as clear and fresh as when you first applied it. Both palettes have some amazing colours, perfect for this seasons nude make-up trends.

Final decision: This is an amazing dupe, and I would definitely use the MUA palette as a replacement for my UD one.
MUA Undressed Palette is available in Superdrug stores, and online here (worldwide shipping available).
Urban Decay’s Naked Palette is available in Debenhams & House of Fraser (UK) stores, and online here.
bloomzy /

Review: Mudd Face Masks

Mudd Face Masks: Sea Clay, Peel-off and Original*

Recently I was sent a lovely pink package, and what did it contain? It contained a set of the new Mudd face masks – sea clay, peel-off and original. I love putting on a face mask once or twice a week. It helps me relax and is great for my skin. So of course I was very happy to see that I had been given a selection of the masks to try out.

Mudd are quite smart in the way they’ve decided to package these. They come in single packs (1 application) and packs of 5 or 10 applications. The 5/10 application packs have a handy flip lid so you can squeeze out the perfect amount and then replace it. No need to worry about the mask getting everywhere or drying out!

I tried out the Hydrating sea clay face mask, as you can see. This really was hydrating and left my skin feeling super soft and light (does that make sense?). After application the mask dries and tightens…oh does it tighten. It felt a bit odd to start with but I got used to it. After 15mins 99% of the mask had dried and it felt like I’d had botox – I removed it with warm water and a cloth. This was a lovely mask and I can’t wait to try out the others, especially the peeling mask!

You can buy Mudd Face Masks in Boots and online here.
Prices are £1 for a single, £3.05 for a 5 pack and £4.99 for a 10 pack.

bloomzy /

Review: Tanda Zap – Acne spot treatment device

HoMedics Tanda Zap – acne spot treatment device*
HoMedics Tanda Zap is a new handheld blue light device to help fade or clear acne.
The great thing about Tanda Zap is that it is an on-the-spot treatment, which means you can do it at home, in work etc.
It easily fits into your bag, or on your dresser so you can grab it for a treatment whenever you fancy.
What does it do?
It uses blue light technology, along with sonic vibration and a gentle warming to open the pores, help destroy bacteria and reduce swelling/inflammation. It even claims to help clear or fade blemishes within 24 hours.
It can also help to prevent future breakouts.
For use on all skin types and tones.
How do you use it?
By pressing the big orange switch on the front, the blue light is activated.
Hold the Tanda Zap gently against the affected area and let it run its course – 2mins.
You can end the treatment before the time is up, or it will turn off after the 2mins has passed.
You can use it up to 3x a day on the one blemish, and on other blemishes.
It is battery powered and lasts for 1000 treatments.

 

My Personal Experience
I usually suffer from one or two breakouts during my period, but am generally spot free the rest of the time.
Luckily I had a nasty spot for this same reason, when the Tanda Zap arrived at my front door. These tend to last around a week and fade with my usual skin care routine but I decided to try out Tanda Zap instead. I used it as part of my normal skin care routine day & night, as well as once in the afternoon. After 24hrs I definitely noticed a difference – actually the spot was more inflammed, but I think this was due the treatment bringing out all the bacteria etc. After 48hrs I was really happy as the spot was noticeably smaller and less inflammed.
I’m impressed and will definitely continue to use it when a spot pops up!
Before use I would suggest you read the instructions as some medication such as antihistamines apparently don’t work well with it (can cause skin irritation and redness), however I take them occasionally and haven’t had a problem.
You can buy Tanda Zap in Boots stores, and online here.
For those who suffer with long-term acne problems, Tanda Clear+ is also available, here.
bloomzy /

Introducing: Kanebo Sensai 38°C Mascara

Kanebo Sensai 38°C Mascara & 38°C Separating & Lengthening Mascara
Kanebo’s latest mascara to hit Harrod’s beauty department is the Sensai 38°C.
Coming in both a regular and a separating & lengthening version, the mascaras feature Koishimaru silk extract and Phyto-Squalane for a soft texture. Both are fragrance-free and use a traditional spiral brush, to help separate the lashes, and avoid clumping whilst offering the right amount of coverage.

Kanebo Sensai 38°C Mascara
The 38°C mascara is a new addition to the world of waterproof mascaras.
The name may seem a bit odd, but actually it’s pretty self-explanatory. The unique formula means that it is only removable with water at 38°C (or higher). Even so, this is an essential mascara for those who live in, or are planning on holidaying in a hot climate. Resistant against sweat, tears and high humidity means that you’ll have no worries at all.

Kanebo Sensai 38°C Mascara Separating & Lengthening
Joining the 38°C mascara is the Separating & Lengthening mascara, which separates, conditions and lengthens the lashes whilst still managing to live up to its namesake. If water and humidity resistant wasn’t good enough for you, then maybe big and beautiful eyes will help seal the deal.

You can purchase both mascaras from the Kanebo Sensai 38°C range here.
Or browse the rest of Kanebo’s collection at Harrods here.

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This post is in collaboration with Harrods but all views, photos and words are my own.
bloomzy /

[Nail Week] My Favourite Nail Polish Brands

Nail Week is coming to a close, and I decided to end it with a post on my favourite Nail Polish Brands.
Over the years I have tried various brands of polish. Some I’ve not been too keen on, others I’ve become a long-term fan of, and still continue to use today. So I decided to include some of my old favourites and some of the up-and-comers in my personal collection.Why have I chosen the brands that I did?

Maxfactor
A mid-range priced polish that offers great coverage and good colour.
Great application – opaque in 1 coat!
Buy here.

OPI
Such an amazing range of colours, shades and glitter polishes.
If you want a particular colour, OPI will have it.
Buy here.

MUA
Cheap and cheerful.
Polishes start at £1 and come in a variety of shades, including glitters.
Buy here.

Chanel
A high-end polish that doesn’t disappoint.
Application and removal is super easy, whilst the shades are always on-trend.
Buy here.

Barry M
Affordable, vibrant colours that are long-lasting.
They often have discounts and special offers for their large variety of polishes.
Buy here.

Dear Lee
Wonderful colours and cheap too!
I love their selection and the application of the polish.
Buy here.

Miss Sporty
Another cheap, but effective polish.
Buy here.

So there you have it, my favourite go-to nail polish brands.
Of course that doesn’t mean I won’t be experimenting with any new brands.
What’s your favourite nail polish brand?

bloomzy /

[Nail Week] Review: Glitter Nail Art Brushes

Glitter Nail Art Brushes*

Nail art pens and brushes are some of the easiest ways to create a variety of designs.
I’ve experimented with pens in the past, and I think they’re great but some can be a little awkward to use.
So this time I tried out some glitter nail art brushes, just to see if I could get on any easier with them.
These particular ones come in a set of 9; red-pink, purple, blue, orange, green, 2x gold, 2x silver.
There are two for each silver and gold as one is a thin glitter, and one has bigger pieces.
Please note it is very hard to photograph glitter polish – the effect is much better in person.

Creating a gradient effect with the glitter nail art brushes.

Pros:
+ Easy to use
+ Glitter goes on well
+ Colours are vibrant
+ My favourite colours are orange, blue and gold

Cons:
– Can be slightly gloopy
– Takes time to dry
– Has a VERY strong smell (nail polish chemical smell)

Notes:
I really loved the effect I created with these, but I wonder if I’d be able to create more intricate designs with them.
I think if you want something for simple designs (stripes, gradients, polka dots etc) these are great.
However if you wanted to draw with these then I would say it’s probably going to be difficult, and pens would be a better solution. That said, I thought the glitter went on well and it was easy to apply, especially compared to some of the pens I’ve used. The drying time was slightly longer than a nail polish, which is probably due to the ‘gloopy’ formula. 
You can buy these Glitter Nail Art Brushes here.
Or browse BornPrettyStore for other colours in the range.
10% off with code: BLOOMZYK31
bloomzy /

[Nail Week] 5 Tips for Strong & Healthy Nails

I often get people online and in my daily life asking me how I keep my nails so nice.
I never even thought my nails were that nice, and I don’t do much. However, friends and family ask me for my tips as they find it difficult to get long, strong nails, and keep them that way! Honestly, I think some of it is genes but I do have a few tips and some product recommendations to help those out who want healthy, strong nails.
File/Trim your nails regularly
I’ve found that trimming my nails (with manicure scissors) and filing them often, helps keep them strong.
They’re also less likely to break if you trim/file them often. Remember not to trim/file your nails when they’re wet, such as after a shower or bath, as they’re a lot more delicate in this state. I also use a hand and nail moisturiser after I have filed, which I rub into my nails. Models Own have some stylish scissors here, and check out the latest StyleFile here.
Avoid Acrylic & Gel nail extensions
I think this is the hardest one to do of all these tips.
I used to love getting my nails done and would rush back to the salon after having the last set removed.
Sadly acrylic and gel extensions can do quite a bit of damage to your nails, especially when they’re being removed.
After I stopped getting extensions I noticed how sad my nails looked, but they soon perked up!
Of course the occasional set won’t do any harm though.
Use a Cuticle Oil or Vaseline/Olive Oil on your cuticles and skin
Rubbing a cuticle oil, vaseline or olive oil into your cuticles and the skin surrounding will help keep your nails hydrated and your cuticles soft. Not everyone can afford a cuticle oil, so these at home remedies can be just as useful. You also don’t really need to trim/push back your cuticles, that can actually cause more harm then good.
If you are interested though you can find cheap cuticle oils here and a more expensive version here.
Try adding more milk to your diet, or maybe some nail supplements?
Adding more calcium and zinc to your diet can help improve the strength of your nails.
If you can’t do that then nail supplements can be a great alternative as they often include plenty of other vitamins and minerals. Not only that but they’re also great for your skin and hair too – I take a few a day.
You can find nail supplements at most health food stores, like here.
Use a Nail Strengthener
This is the only tip that I’ve not actually tried myself, but it is something I’ve heard a lot of good things about.
Nail strengtheners can be really helpful for those whose nails break easily, or just to help bulk them up.
From what I’ve heard, OPI’s nail strengthener is one of the best out there, you can buy it here. 
If you don’t fancy shelling out that much money, 17 do a much cheaper version here.
Good luck! And feel free to comment with your own tips!