MAKEUP

There is a bronzer on the market that makeup lovers can't stop talking about - and for all the right reasons.

Not only is it less than a quarter of the price of market-leading alternatives, but it is also just as good. Trust us.

When you look at what it does for your face, you will find - like we did - that it delivers on all fronts.

Does it offer even coverage? Tick. Is it buildable? Tick. No orange tinge? Tick. Costs less than a fiver? Another tick!

So, what product are we talking about? The W7 Honolulu Bronzing Powder.

Vegan Bronzing Powder

UK brand W7 has produced a trending bronzer

For the safety conscious, it eliminates the need to expose the face to too much sun. It's summer beauty in small box - and super-easy to use.

Unlike some bronzers, including most bronzing pearls, W7's offering doesn't leave a nasty shine on the face. It has a gorgeous matte finish.

You really can achieve a tanning level that's just right for you. And, while it is easy to remove at the end of the day, it has steadfast staying power so that sun-kissed look lasts as long as you want it to.

This cruelty-free and vegan product has been likened to best-selling bronzers made by premium brands. You know the ones I'm referring to. And, having purchased it, I can tell you why.

Before we share an honest review, we would like to explain why we tested the bronzer.

Our tester has always had very fair skin. Tanning simply doesn't happen - she goes red. Bright red. Add to that a litany of self-tan disasters. So, for her, a bronzer is a quick and easy way to eliminate deathly pale skin.

Previous purchases have varied from almost OK to pretty darned awful. It's amazing how many bronzers don't bronze the skin at all. They are either tinted highlighters or overly pigmented with orange tones. Finding a powder you can apply over a foundation that doesn't leave you looking like a contender for a Halloween pumpkin competition can be a long and expensive quest.

Our tester said: "I watch an awful lot of YouTube makeup tutorials. What always strikes me is how influencers manage to achieve tanned-looking, contoured skin without a powdery, uneven finish. To try and imitate their bronzed foreheads, cheeks and jawlines, I've gone through about 12 brands. The best-performing, in the past, have always been products around the £30 mark.

"When you think about it, thirty quid is a lot of cash to fork out for a single makeup product. If you were savvy, you could replace all your cosmetics for less than that. So, I've been on the lookout for a budget bronzer that ticks all the right boxes. "If I had taken the trouble to read the reviews, I could have saved myself a small fortune - I've bought three other bronzing products since then and not one of them delivered exactly what I was looking for.

"For me, a good bronzer should provide a golden glow that replicates a tan and makes the skin look radiant.

"Finally, I read what purchasers were saying about W7's offering and decided to take a punt.

"It cost £4.50 and was delivered the next day. The soft brush was neatly packed inside the box of bronzer, nestled in a removeable tray. Needless to say, I couldn't wait to try it.

"One of my worries was that it would be difficult to apply evenly. The last thing I want is a blotchy face!

"I needn't have worried. I gently swept the brush across the powder and applied the bronzer to the face. In an instant, I had a tan! Not only that, it was 'just right' . Sure, I could have applied more and gotten a deeper tan but, for the office, subtle is the order of the day.

"Honestly, I am impressed. I chose to use this product all over my face, including my eyelids. It worked a treat. For contouring, I will only apply to the cheeks, forehead and jawline.

"What

a delivers. " bargain! A bronzer that truly

Takeaways

It is often easy to dismiss a product based on a low price. W7 is, much like Technic, a brand that sits on the fringes of the budget makeup space. You will find its products in cheap shops, nonbeauty-specific retailers like Argos and, of course, online. But, scratch below the surface and you will find an exciting British brand with roots that date back two decades.

The Honolulu Bronzing Powder is a prime example of what cheaper makes are getting right. Keep producing high-quality products like this and it will only attract more customers and more great feedback.

This product was a fantastic find and we have no hesitation in recommending it.

We are all familiar with phrases like 'carbon footprint' , 'environmentallyfriendly' and 'clean' products, but how do we really buy makeup responsibly?

Much like 'fast fashion' , the beauty industry has evolved into a churning beast that spits out ever-more collaborations and limitedtime one-offs. Many brands now bring new collections to the market on a weekly basis.

That lipstick you bought two weeks ago has probably already been superseded by a 'more fashionable' shade or finish, with 'better' ingredients and in more appealing packaging.

Over the past 10 years, organic cosmetic sales in the UK have seen year-on-year growth. In 2020, we spent a staggering £8.7 billion on cosmetics and toiletries as a whole. A mind-blowing figure.

How to buy makeup responsibly

In delivering statistics on the UK beauty market, Georgia-Rose Johnson, of Finder UK, said: "The cosmetics market in the UK is enormous. In 2020, the cosmetics market was named the third largest market operating in the UK. Globally, the UK has the seventh largest cosmetics market, with the US and China taking the top two spots. "

So, if we want to develop our green credentials as consumers, how do we negotiate this tricky landscape?

It boils down to more than packaging.

While makeup addicts are not going to stop amassing mountains of goodies, we are going to have to pay more attention to ingredients, how they are sourced and a whole lot more.

Makeup Packaging

It's no secret that beauty brands have invested more than just lip service into efforts to transform packaging. But, even now, general awareness of what is sustainable and what isn't is sketchy.

For example, what would be the point of buying eyeshadows in a cardboard palette if the pans are still metal?

Are councils actively separating materials in this type of product and does your local authority limit the types of metal it will accept in recycling bins?

Some councils stipulate what they will accept and metals can be limited to 'tins, cans and aerosols' , depending on where you live.

As a rule, try to buy makeup in packaging made from a single material. This makes it much easier to recycle confidently.

Our tips to help you dispose of beauty products more effectively - take a look at these simple but helpful ideas:

Eyeshadows: Cardboard palettes with no

plastic or metal Lipsticks: Plastic, not metal, twist-up tubes Mascara: All recyclable plastic Foundation: Glass with a recyclable plastic lid Powders, e.g. blushers, bronzers, finishing powder: All plastic or cardboard with no metal pan Because of extensive deforestation caused by the beauty industry, I'd like to see every cosmetic brand make clear statements about what they are doing to replace trees used in the production of packaging and plant-based products. In fact, environmentalists are currently highlighting the drawbacks of products made with natural ingredients and argue many are unsustainable.

Cosmetic Ingredients

Some ingredients found in cosmetics pollute not just our oceans but the air too. How they are sourced is also of major concern, particularly when it comes to things like palm oil and mica.

This is such a difficult topic to negotiate. For example, who would have thought that products made with Amazonian Clay are not just helping Brazil's economy but assisting communities in the removal of a material that hampers crop growth? And it's great for our skin too!

As a rule, I check both makeup and skincare packing to ensure products do not include:

Palm Oil Microbeads Parabens Triclosan Benzophenone Oxybenzone BHT

Sodium Laureth Sulfate BHA Volatile Organic Compounds

It came as a complete shock to us when we recently discovered that one of biggest polluters is, of all things, sunscreen. That is because some brands use oxybenzone, which has been linked to the extensive destruction of coral reefs and, brace yourself, the cause of cancer.

Ingredient Sourcing

Environmentalists have sounded the alarm over child labour issues surrounding the sourcing of ingredients used in makeup.

Although not limited to the mining of mica, this particular mineral dust can cause lung disease. Campaign organisation TRVST says it is dangerous and has highlighted child injuries and fatalities. It says such mining breaks international labour conventions. However, it also points out that most brands can certify that they do not use mica powder sourced via child labour 'in end products' .

The truth is that when we are smearing pigments on our faces, we are not thinking about child labour. We ought to.

There is more to be done on the part of brands. We are not off the hook, either...

It's down to each and every one of us to pay more attention to what we are buying. If we don't question everything from packaging to ingredients, aren't we partly to blame for not just the destruction of the planet but our own future health?

After all, if we aren't buying a product that is bad for the environment a brand will stop producing it.

www.regimeskincare.co.uk

Major fashion houses have unveiled their autumn/winter collections for this year, setting catwalks on fire with a fresh take on ready-to-wear and trend-setting pieces. The colours in those collections will influence autumn makeup trends, so get ready to make some notes.

Dusky pink, purples and blue paired with grey or black are colour themes seen across multiple brands. Still on trend are those ohso bold neons - green, yellow and blue, in particular.

While camel colours and some tweeds have featured, neutral is not where it is at in 2022.

This gives you enormous scope when it comes to cosmetics. While we all have our own unique quirks, what is in vogue usually dictates one or more element of how we wear makeup.

A new breed of foundations are delivering benefits

Whether you are a casual observer of trends or strive to slay every new look, knowing what is likely to be hot at any given time of the year is always useful. And you don't have to be a Versace or Prada fan to be where fashion is at.

Even budget clothing brands follow trends, so the colour themes we have seen are likely to be replicated throughout the clothing industry.

Pigments For Autumnal Looks

It is often cheaper to buy seasonal eye and lip pigments a few months in advance when they are not in demand. As well as saving you money, buying early will give you some time to play around with them offering ample opportunity to perfect your autumnal look. Take a look in the Sale sections of online beauty brands - you will be amazed at what you can find for next to nothing. Our Makeup section is also awash with great bargains!

When buying makeup for a particular time of year, purchase only the essentials to keep the cost down. Take a look at your current palettes, lipsticks and blushers. You may already have all the shades you need.

10 Autumn Makeup Ideas

Black is back and we want you to bear this in mind when reading the suggestions that follow. Many of those vibrant neons seen on the catwalk have been blouses paired with black trousers or a black jacket.

1. Black eyeliner - lots of it. The trend is likely to be on heavy eyeliner, both on the upper and lower lids. If you're a fan, this is going to be your season.

2. Cat eyes. Because black is back, this look is going to be popular. If you struggle to create straight lines, we have a guide to the top video tutorials on this blog.

3. Plum eyeshadow and lipstick. It works well with black, purples and even with more neutral attire. 4. Barely there pinks, oranges and reds for the eyes with no eyeliner or the eyeshadow swept under the eye. Give it a go.

5. Grey eyeshadow. Slate grey could be big this year, if influencers decide to use it with all that black eyeliner.

6. Neon pigments on the eyes will be a must if you wear any of the vibrant themes seen on the catwalk. Greens and blues are your best bet.

7. Go for bold on the lips - sunglasses are still going to be a 'thing' in September, October and November.

8. We have seen some all-black outfits adorned with chains in the collar area, reminiscent of the 80s and 90s. This could give you some scope to add a bit of sparkle to the eyes.

9. Contour pigments for the cheeks, rather than blusher, is tipped to be in vogue.

10. The light, natural look is what you should be aiming for when it comes to foundation. The bronzed goddess is definitely out.

It's sod's law! I was going to write a review about Glitzy Girlz' UV makeup palette when something cropped up that seemed... well, rather more important. How to get it all off.

After testing out the neon pigments and being, initially, somewhat underwhelmed, my other half flashed an ultra violet light in my face - and I lit up like a Christmas tree.

The effect was stunning. Every dot, splatter and carefully drawn line fluoresced in a dazzling display of all things stand-out BRIGHT. Even my eyelashes flashed DayGlo green. I couldn't believe it; it worked!

What a shame I was all made up with nowhere to go, marvelling at my creativity in ultrauncool 'granny' slippers with stray threads where pom-poms were once attached and an over-sized T-shirt that often doubles up as a nightie.

How to remove stubborn UV pigments

"It's getting late, " my other half reminded me, going on to stress we had to be out the door at some ungodly hour in the morning.

It was the nudge I needed to launch myself into my evening skincare regimen. But, as I was to discover, the effort required to remove UV makeup goes above and beyond any normal cleansing routine.

Removing UV Makeup

First up, scrap your normal routine. It won't work. Trust me on this - I've been there. This stuff is ultra hard to shift.

Start with micellar water and pay particular attention to areas with high concentrations of UV makeup. Hold a soaked pad over these areas for at least 30 seconds before sweeping the face.

Next, you will need Vaseline or a good cleansing balm. Massage a fair amount into the skin. Keeping massaging for three to five minutes before removing with a hot cloth or warm water.

If you have a UV light, use it now to see how much you have managed to remove. If you can still see a large amount of product, repeat the first two steps.

Note: don't rub or drag the skin and only use gentle motions.

Once you are satisfied you have got the bulk of the makeup off, give your skin a wash with a mild, hydrating cleanser. If you have an electronic cleansing tool, use it during the wash.

You can now tone and moisturise.

In all honestly, it may take a day or two to get every last spec of product off your skin and lashes. A depressing prospect, if you are a skincare junkie like me.

My initial plan was to share images of my UV creations but, after testing out the palette, I was dismayed at the effort required to remove this stuff. Hence, I have not yet been able to bring myself to use it again - yet. I am sure temptation will get the better of me at some point.

UV makeup is great fun to use. Seeing the designs you have created come alive is a literally breathtaking moment.

Enjoy experimenting with this cool way to express yourself.

Just remember to remove UV makeup properly as soon as you are done with it.

Beauty brands are synonymous with carping on about makeup being 'all about the base' . They push endless products at us - often without explaining how to get the most out of them nor imparting what application techniques work best. That is why using foundation can be hit and miss.

Video tutorials peddled on social media platforms by naturally stunning influencers are all well and good but, truthfully, most of us would not get the same result - even with the same products. That is because we are all unique with individual nuances, from skin concerns to complexion shade.

There is a new trend, however, being propelled in the UK by home-grown lines, and it involves using a combination of products to perfect the face. Some of the kits look quite tempting. But, then I think, it all looks such a faff. Complicated and time-consuming.

How to create the perfect complexion

You don't have to buy a kit to get a better finish, though. Mixing foundation with other products - even ones you have already got can deliver amazing results.

Foundation Faux Pas To Perfection

My first foundation was a Pan Stik. That was 40 years ago. It was greasy - not a good look on adolescent skin - and had a knack for turning me the shade of a freshly washed carrot.

Since then, I've tried them all - with varying degrees of success and far too many abject failures.

I've looked whiter than a ghost, more marbled than Arabescato Breccia and flakier than a Danish pastry. And, of course, I've worn that full and obvious caked mask look too many times to count.

Things are getting better... Ingredients have improved universally over the years and the number of shades available is now enormous. Some formats come in more than 50 colours.

With SPF and premium skincare ingredients, wearing foundation can keep you looking younger for longer. The only drawbacks are getting it to look natural and taking it off.

I have experimented with foundation till the cows come home and can, finally, say (with confidence) that I know what works. From dewy to colour-correcting and beyond, I've nailed it. Phew - it only took four decades!

Currently, my foundation haul includes

Revolution Foundation Drops,

Chanel, Phoera, and Max Factor's Radiant Lift. I usually apply with the fingers and then press into the skin with a beauty blender.

Mixing Your Foundation

If mixing your foundation with another product sounds risky, it's not. But first, you have to properly prep your skin. If you are still applying it to freshly cleaned skin - stop!

The Base

This system works for me every time, without exception.

After cleansing:

Tone with either a Vitamin C, glycolic acid or caffeine astringent Moisturise the skin with a product that is slightly sticky. Try Boots' Peach Glow jelly moisturiser - it's perfect and costs under a fiver Apply a primer. Use one that addresses any skin concerns you have, i.e. large pores, redness, blemishes Mixing Foundation

If you want glowing, radiant skin, mix your foundation on the back of a hand with a cream illuminator. I recommend Revolution's Beam Light Strobe Cream in Champagne. A pea-sized amount of each. Remember, you can build coverage by repeating the process. Set with a very light dusting of powder followed by fixing spray.

For a natural finish, you can turn any foundation into a BB cream - simply mix with a cream moisturiser. This works especially well if you have healthy skin. Set as above.

To minimise the appearance of redness, mix your foundation with a colour correcting fluid or cream. Set as above.

If money is a bit tight and your face is lacking an all-year glow, tanning drops are a quick and inexpensive route to that goddess look.

Of all the self-tan products on the market, this one is the easiest to use. You can achieve a perfect tan in your sleep. I'm not kidding.

So, whether you want to go all-out bronze or simply take the edge off a pasty complexion, these serums - yes, serums - are a great buy.

For this feature, I tested Revolution's Brighten Tanning Serum. The aim was to take my very fair skin a few shades darker for the holiday season.

This is what I discovered...

Cheaper Than A Spray Tan

Seven reasons to use tanning drops

Tanning drops will last longer and give you more control over the depth colour. What's more, you can achieve a tan in the comfort of your own home - without having to make a journey or strip off in front of a stranger.

Generally, you can expect a spray tan to last for around a week. One bottle of tanning drops could last you as long as a month.

Self-tan drops are nothing like the tanning creams of yesteryear. For a start, they smell great. And you won't find marks on your pillow in the morning. This is the fuss-free way to get an all-year-round glow.

No-Mess Tanning

A Gradual Tan

Well, tanning drops will save you that worry. They allow you to build a tan gradually over the course of few days to a week. You are in charge. You can stop and start using this product to maintain your perfect level of colour.

Buildable Self-Tanning

Because tanning drops work gradually, the tan is buildable. That means you can achieve a deeper tan simply by continuing to apply it. The product comes in a dropper bottle, giving you complete control over how much product is used in each application.

Tanning Drops Don't Streak

Self-tan drops deliver an even, streak-free tan. What's more, the product will not settle in pores. If you have combination skin or are prone to blackheads, this is great news.

Easy To Apply

Tanning drops are applied as part of a skincare routine. Simply use it in the same way as a serum.

Fringe Benefits

Because the active ingredient, DHA, is in a serum, beauty brands have been quick to ensure products deliver more than a tan. Many come with great added extras, like Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Vitamin E and even Aloe Vera.

My Experience

I have had some disastrous encounters with tanning products in the past. It's the curse of having a complexion that is a whiter shade of pale. Legs that looked like streaky bacon was nowhere near my worst experience. I've looked orange. I have resembled a new potato that has been rolled in Bisto. Once, the outcome was so bad that I had to have a professional facial. That unexpected expense was the result of a selftanning lotion that decided to settle in every pore on my nose. I woke up one morning peppered with unsightly black dots.

Oh, the lure of that golden goddess look... Another time, I was on holiday at a spa hotel in Torquay and decided to have a spray tan between checking out and driving back to Dorset. Big mistake. The person doing the spray tan was tall, blonde, beautiful and young - which, to be honest, made me feel uncomfortable. Well, old.

Having to strip off and step into paper undies, turn this way and turn that way... It was humiliating. Afterwards, I had to hang around in a loose robe to ensure the tanning solution was dry before I got dressed.

It was all to no avail. I ended up looking like I'd spent the weekend on a Commando course. And by the time I realised, I was 50 miles away.

As you can imagine, I wasn't quite sure what to expect with the new kid on the block (tanning drops). I assumed they would be almost the same as self-tan lotions. I imagined a horrible, lingering smell, a mess everywhere and the almost obligatory streaks.

What a pleasant surprise I was in for!

I decided to use the product at night and, according to the the brand's marketing, could expect to build a tan over a week. That first night, the end of the week couldn't come soon enough! I decided to exfoliate my skin in the mornings, so the drops were fitted into my evening schedule between gentle cleansing and moisturising. I noticed a difference after the first use.

Unfortunately, temptation got the better of me... The second night, I applied the drops after cleansing but did not use a moisturiser. I waited half an hour and applied some more. I woke up in the middle of the night and, oops!, did it again. The following morning, I woke up very bronzed indeed. A little too bronzed. I noticed people doing a double-take when they clapped eyes on me at work.

After laying off the tanning serum for a night, the colour was just right.

Revolution Beauty's Brighten Tanning Serum retails at around £11.99. It is sold in a 30ml dropper bottle.

If you are looking for a magnifying compact mirror, I've found one that zooms in on even the tiniest imperfections.

With touch-screen LED lights and a USB charger, this little stunner will set you back under £10 - and improve every step of your beauty routine with precision.

It has two mirrors - normal and 10x magnification - and comes in a sleek ASB casing.

Use it to keep your eyebrows in check, more effectively target problem areas on the face and apply makeup like a pro.

From the brand Libershine, this is the best magnification mirror I've ever used.

This compact mirror never lies!

Not The Fairest Of Them All

The first thing that struck me about this magnifying mirror is that it looks good. The design is sleek and slim. It is also a good size and easy to open - always a bonus if you are in a hurry and value your nails.

It arrived fully charged, which meant it was ready to use straight away. With two taps, the lights were on and I was ready to get up close and personal with my face.

What I saw staring back at me came as a complete and devastating shock. Reincarnation of Jackie Stallone doesn't come close. I am a skincare addict and go above and beyond when it comes to taking care of my face. In fact, I am the type of woman who is so fastidious about the evening regimen that I keep products lined up in the order that I use them. The result? Nothing short of disgusting!

Aside from stray hairs on my cheeks - yes, CHEEKS! - I saw more open pores than I could count. Worse, my foundation was stuck in them. I had little beige dots peppered across my nose, chin, forehead and beyond. And, yes, I had used a primer.

Truthfully? I wanted to cry.

The only thing that turned it around for me was that I was determined to use this compact mirror to put things right.

Magnifying Compact Mirror Uses

What sets this magnifying compact mirror apart is its lights. I looked flawless in my 10x magnification mirror without LEDs, which led me into a false sense of security. Now I know the ugly truth, I will never use a mirror without lights again.

So, how have I used my new mirror?

First up, I used it to ensure I had thoroughly removed all the makeup clogging my pores. I then toned my skin and used a product designed to minimise the appearance of pores. (I've scheduled a home skin peel because I think my face needs more than just a toner to tackle these unsightly holes.)

Afterwards, I got my mini electric hair remover and buzzed off all those stray hairs. I got every single one - thanks to this mirror.

The next morning, I used the mirror to ensure my makeup primer really did conceal those pores. I also utilised it to tidy up my eyebrows. I use a pencil to define and fill the shape, and this mirror ensured every stroke was spot on.

Where this mirror came into its own, bearing in mind I am an eyeshadow addict, was when the time arrived to apply eye makeup. The difference was noticeable from any distance. I was able to perfectly line my upper lids, better define the cut crease and ensure more pigmented colours were used sparingly and appropriately. I also found the mirror ideal when it came to applying mascara to my lower lashes and when using lipstick.

Best Magnifying Mirror?

My takeaways from this purchase are all positive.

Admittedly, it wasn't a pleasant feeling when I first switched on those lights and looked at myself. But, thank God, I did.

I keep thinking, over and over, of all those times I left the house feeling a million dollars when I actually looked like a patchwork quilt. Embarrassing.

The good news is - it's never going to happen again.

It is an inexpensive tool but powerful

and portable. The lighting is also adjustable. This mirror isn't going to lie, which can only be a good thing if you are serious about looking great.

Skin analysis scanners are touted as an effective way to determine the skin's condition.

A relatively new bit of kit, they are widely used to help establish personalised skincare regimens. Increasingly, they are used on makeup counters to ensure consumers buy the correct shade of foundation for their complexion.

So, how do the scanners work and can they be relied upon to give accurate results?

How Skin Scanning Technology Works

The most widely used skin scanning devices use UV camera technology to analyse the condition of your skin.

Do skin analysis scanners work?

Many aesthetic beauty clinics use this type of equipment before offering advanced treatments.

Some clinics use specialist lamps and then take a series of images before sending the pictures to a software program for analysis. Handheld scanners are often used on beauty counters in large stores, in pharmacies and by dermatologists.

They too can send images to computers for a full breakdown of information.

There are two types of scans - one analyses the skin for specific conditions and the other focuses on beauty treatments and makeup. They can use different technologies, including software.

As well as analysing how well the skin retains moisture and show sun damage, scanning technology can also establish sebum and keratin levels as well as take a close look at pores, blemishes and obvious signs of ageing such as fine lines. It can be especially beneficial for those who suffer from recurring skin conditions including eczema.

Skin Analysis Scanners Work

According to countless reviews, skin analysis scanners deliver accurate results.

It's painless and safe to undergo a scan and the whole thing can take as little as 15 minutes.

We have surveyed reviews for a wide range of scanner types - all with scientifically proven status - and there is a compelling argument for their use.

As well as giving all of us a chance to personalise our skincare to maximise the benefits, there are huge money-saving reasons to give this technology a go.

You can be sure that you are buying cosmetics that are the right shade for your skin and won't be forking out for skincare products that aren't designed to treat your particular concerns.

It is worth noting that scanners used on makeup counters are sometimes offered as a complementary service while diagnostic scans can cost from around £65 upwards. Hailed as 'game-changing' , they certainly take skincare to the next level.

It will be interesting to see where technological advancements take skin diagnostics in the future.

You are more likely to come across a lesser spotted dogfish than a powder room at an outdoor music event miles from anywhere. Not cool - if you want to look good in festival makeup while you embrace the experience.

Remember, you are challenging the norm from the moment you arrive.

So, whether you are a culture vulture or party animal, there are a few things you need to know - if you want to stay looking your best.

Matted hair and cosmetics all over the place - or non-existent - equate to the end-of-daytwo badge of honour. Unless, of course, you are rocking it in the VIP zone.

We've all seen images of 'festival girls' in trendy wellies, with perfectly applied face paint and not a hair out of place.

With the festival season in full swing - how to look good for days

Wonder how they

do unintentionally grunge? it when you look

If they are not there on a day pass, they already know how to navigate the, let's face it, demanding environment.

It's no fun trying to get dolled up in a tent full of party people, devoid of running water and, possibly, mislaid (or forgotten) cosmetics.

But, with a little bit of planning, you can

overcome all the obstacles and nail it 24/7.

Slay Your Style - Anywhere

The key to great festival makeup is to keep things simple and organised.

You don't want to keep walking back to your tent (trust us, it can be a very l-o-n-g way from the action), so our first tip is to ensure whatever you need is lightweight, portable and always with you.

A great festival accessory is a waterproof crossbody bag with a zip fastener. Harder to lose than other types of bags, it will keep all your essentials safe and dry.

Don't take a shed load of individual makeup items with you. Leave them at home - along with your foundation. Instead, invest in a travelsize all-in-one or multi-purpose makeup set. You'd be surprised how much brands now pack into these little things. And they can cost well under a tenner! They make it super easy to switch your look up or down, wherever you are. Get one that includes eyeshadow, face powder, blusher, bronzer, lip tints/gloss and, if possible, applicators.

The only other items you will need are mascara and an eyeliner.

If you can't find a travel kit you like, take a look at some of the smaller book palettes or pack an eyeshadow set with pigments that can be used as a blusher as well as to highlight and contour. If you opt for a book palette, make sure it has a strong magnetic close.

Eyeshadow can also be used instead of paint on the face.

Tip: LED light-up compact mirrors have come right down in price - perfect for round-theclock needs. They are stylish too. Even if the event you attend has good wash facilities, there's bound to be huge queues. If you are fastidious about cleansing, toning and moisturising, take a look at some of the travel and trial kits available. They contain itsy-bitsy products that will take up hardly any space in your bag and see you through the weekend.

Try to find one with a cream cleanser and invest in a small pack of face wipes. Use a moisturiser as a primer before applying face powder for half-decent coverage.

Festival Makeup In A Nutshell

You can't take the kitchen sink to a festival but, with a few little compromises, you can take your style.

When it comes to hair, pack a comb for short styles. If you've got longer hair, have it braided or tie it up. Use pins and clips and, for extra hold, spray it in place. Want to wear your hair long? Good luck! Pack a comb and use it. Choosing products that will make your life easier while keeping you looking and feeling fab is the name of the game.

You will be camera ready while you are making memories and, I bet, the belle of the (festival) ball.

If you have invested in a new dressing table and want to look after it, you may be looking for a cheap storage solution to keep the surface looking tidy. Not only do stacks of skincare and makeup products look messy, they can damage your furniture if not properly stored.

Keeping things neat and tidy - and stain-free - is easily achieved with our top 3 cheap storage solutions.

There are options to suit even the smallest of budgets. As well as keeping a space spick and span, they will keep you organised and ensure you always know where a product or beauty tool is.

Most of us have had to face the issue of overloading a space with too much 'stuff' . I am a serial offender.

A guide to savvy makeup storage

In fact, I've lost count of the number of times I've found stains or makeup marks on my bedroom furniture. When I splashed out on a new dressing table two years ago, I was determined to change the habit of a lifetime. So far - thanks to great storage - I have managed to stick to my guns.

Here are my top storage picks, complete with pros and cons.

Dressing Table Tray

A tray is a simple solution if you don't keep a lot of products on the dressing table and simply want to avoid stains.

As well as cheap, clear plastic, modern trays can feature mirrored, wooden, metal, glass or marble bottoms.

Open Organiser

With compartments for everything from lipsticks to makeup brushes, an organiser is a great idea if you have a mixture of cosmetics. As well as looking tidy, there is a place for most items.

This type of storage solution can cost as little as £7.99 and is available in a range of finishes.

Pros

Cheap Can look good Makes it really easy to find what you are looking for Prevents staining Various design and size options

Cons

May not be space for everything Larger, rotating organisers can take up a lot of space No dust protection for makeup brushes

You can pick up a large clear plastic tray for under £9. A textured glass tray is likely to set you back around £14, while a good mirrored version is likely to cost around £24. Marble bottomed trays start at around £12.

Pros

Easy to see and find products Good choice of sizes available Can enhance your decor, if wisely Inexpensive Prevents stains you choose

Cons

Can end up looking messy if you put too much on it Will not provide protection from dust

Makeup Organiser With Drawers

Pros

Closed organisers come in a range of shapes and sizes. Some have drawers as well as open compartments while others are completely closed.

Perfect for makeup brushes and cosmetics in basic packaging, they guarantee your dressing table will always look tidy. Prices range from around £12.99 to £50. Looks smart Keeps products with less attractive

packaging out of sight Protects makeup brushes from dust and contamination Prevents staining Choice of design and sizes

Cons

More expensive than other options Can take up a lot of space - particularly options with handles

Get Organised

If you have got a lot of makeup and don't want to spend a fortune on a large enclosed organiser, why not consider buying a simple vegetable rack? Available in loads of different finishes, you are bound to find one that matches your home decor.

REGIME is an ally of the LGBT community and it was a privilege to celebrate Pride Month.

Throughout June, we supported Pride events by promoting them and highlighting the positive contribution the community makes to society throughout the UK. Our theme was diversity and we waved a flag (rainbow, of course) for the influence it has across multiple sectors including business.

Events took place globally to coincide with the 1969 Stonewall Riots. It was a time to celebrate, raise awareness of LGBT issues and to peacefully lobby politicians for further change.

We told the story of the colourful flag, too. Originally designed by artist Gilbert Baker in the 1970s, the LGBT Rainbow Flag is now synonymous with sexual diversity. The concept of the colours continues to be a beacon of gay pride.

Here's what we've been up to since the Spring issue of REGIME

On social media, we teamed up with #MHHSBD (My Helpful Hints Small Business Directory) to support LGBT-owned businesses.

We would like to mention 'sent with Pride' , a greetings card and Pride gift shop run by Julie, the very proud mum of a gay son. You can find the shop on Twitter @sentwithpride or at www.sentwithpride.com

On our blog, we created a simple makeup guide for Pride parades. This article attracted the most click-throughs from Google during the month.

For the Queen's much-anticipated Platinum Jubilee, we put together a style guide with party looks from every decade of the monarch's reign.

We finally put ourselves on TikTok! It has to be said, without much initial success.

We launched our channel with a video about sustainability in the beauty sector and followed it up with a filmed commercial for the magazine.

The response gave us the confidence to do our first-ever video review. We reviewed a huge makeup brush set in a luxury, wipeclean roll pouch. Watch this space.

On social media, we ran paid promotions on Facebook in June and July. Although we have a good following, very few page members see our posts - so we wanted to reach more people. The aim of the marketing was to increase awareness about the magazine and encourage sign-ups to our fortnightly newsletter. If you haven't signed up, visit www.regimeskincare.co.uk

More of what we've been up to since the Spring issue of REGIME

A lot of effort goes into creating content for both the magazine and our blog. We hope to gain some recognition for this and have entered a number of awards. The blog has been nominated for a gong via BizBubble which champions small businesses.

Most days, you will find us @CareRegime on Twitter. We take part in the following hashtag hours:

#EarlyBiz #elevenseshour #BizHour #YourBizHour

We continue to be an active paid member of #MHHSBD, and share makeup and skincare deals daily.

Amazon Associate

Regime Skin Care continues its association with Amazon. We are an official Associate, meaning we can earn commission on any products purchased through our links.

It is important to stress that Amazon customers do not pay more for purchasing via our recommendations.

In the Winter issue of REGIME, we will be showcasing some budget beauty buys for Christmas.

If you can't wait until then, visit our website for carefully curated deals and low-price gift ideas.

Regime Direct

From time to time, we sell beauty products direct. Currently, our store is closed while we work on our e-commerce offering. In particular, we want to find a great way to be able to offer a Next Day Delivery service.

Previously, we have stocked a wide range of makeup and skincare products - all at very reasonable prices. Unfortunately, we found dealing with the Post Office difficult and Royal Mail expensive.

Our products were available direct as well as from a number of major platforms, such as eBay. All our order software, including our own, had built-in online delivery payment systems. This meant, we could arrange and pay for postage at the time an order was placed. It meant the customer could track an order at every stage of its journey. Sadly, the local Post Office did not like accepting prepaid parcels (because they do not get anything for them.) Watch this space for any new developments, so you will be among the first to know of fresh launches.

Coming Up

We are currently putting together

our Christmas Gift Guide, which we hope to launch at the beginning of October. Don't forget, we offer a completely free gift and product finder service. Reach out to us at www.regimeskincare.co.uk for assistance. We operate seven days a week.