How I Clean My Make-up Brushes 2013 | beauty | blogger | brushes | cleaning | example | fakes | how i clean my makeup brushes | instructions | mac | new years resolutions | routine | step by step | whenflowersfall

Good morning, my lovelies. 

One of my resolutions for 2013 is to keep on top of cleaning my make-up brushes. I'm pretty sure I'm not the only one who finds it a real chore and I tend to put it off all the time! 

As I'm trying to get into the routine of cleaning them at least once a week, I figured why not share how I clean them with you. 

I usually use a cleanser to clean my brushes. But, depending on the product on the brush, sometimes I find using a clarifying shampoo with help to get the brushes super duper clean. 

First I wet the brush I intend to clean, making sure than the water is running down towards the end of the brush, rather than into the ferrule.

I then usually pump my cleaning product into my hand...

  

...and swirl the brush in my palm to ensure all of the make-up is removed.

Rinsing out the cleaning product is the next step. Again, limiting the amount of water that can get into the ferrule of the brush. Any water that does get into the ferrule can shorten the life of your brush.

Drying off the brush is what I think is one of the most important steps. I usually do this on a dry, clean flannel. Doing this will shorten drying time and help limit water that could get into the ferrule.

My last step is laying all of my clean brushes onto a towel, over an edge. This means the brushes will hold their shape as they dry and you won't end up with brushes that are flat on one side. 

Please note, my 'MAC' brushes are in fact a cheap set off of ebay. I bought them under no impressions that they were real MAC. I feel terrible for those who think that they are, because the quality is shocking compared to the real deal. Please be aware of ebay fakes. 

This months Lily advertiser is Sarah of www.bowsandblushx.blogspot.co.uk

My birthday wishlist. 22 | alex | birthday | birthday list | blush | blusher | brushes | camcorder | hitachi | ikea | mac | make up | march | sigma | sonicleanse | when flowers fall | whenflowersfall | wishlist

It's only 3 months away, so I thought it was about time I put together my birthday list! 

I have no high expectations to actually get any of this, as I know how skint everyone is, myself included, but somehow my taste has become very expensive in the past year. Probably even more so since I've been blogging and spending a lot of time looking at new products. 

           

1. Rio Sonicleanse (Yes it's a cheap version of the Clarisonic. :( I will never afford to get one of those babies, so I doubt anyone in my family will either.) 

2. Hitachi DZHV1074E/U High Definition Camcorder

3. Ikea Alex 9 drawer Unit

4. Topshop Bronzer & Blush in Burning Embers - From the smoke & mirrors collection

5. Mac Blush in Peachy Keen

6. Rose gold Asos Boyfriend Watch

7. Mrs Bunny Sigma Brush Kit

8. Any Yankee Candles

Fingers crossed for maybe at least one thing off my list?

But seriously, I will honestly be grateful of anything that I do get, and 22?!? Can I stay 21 forever please?
Yes? Thanks!

Blush Professional 88 Palettes 88 | blush professional | brushes | cosmetics | eye shadow | eyes | favourites | make up | my faves | palettes | review | when flowers fall | whenflowersfall

Hi Lovelies!

   This is just a quick one as I am pretty sure you have all seen these palettes before, they are the same as the palettes from Coastal Scents. I think these are the ideal staple palettes for anyone's make-up collection. I adore them. I received the 88 colour palette and the 88 earth tones palette for Christmas from Liam. There is also an 88 hot earth tones palette, which I have my eyes on. The colours are very nicely pigmented and wear very well throughout the day. You can purchase these two palettes for either £8.99 each or £16.99 for the two, you can also buy the three eye palettes for £25.49.

   Blush Professional also does a 78 colour make up palette which includes 60 eye shadows, 12 highlighter and liner shades and 6 blushes, as well as their own range of individual brushes and brush sets. You can buy any of their products from their website here.   

   Anywhooo I think I've rambled about my new favourite palettes, I haven't been paid to do this post in any way, I just think they are the best thing since sliced bread at the moment. It won't be long until I have a new favourite. 

Studio Basics 6 piece brush set brushes | cosmetics | eye brushes | eyes | gifts | make up | make-up | studio basics | when flowers fall | whenflowersfall

Looking for some cheap starter brushes?

    Why not give these a go? I found them whilst browsing on CosmeticsFairy.com, they are from the Studio Basics line and retail here for only £3.49!! The brushes are made with all natural hair, are very soft and come with a handy travel case, which is even big enough for more brushes. 

    The set includes a large eye shadow brush, angled crease brush, petite eye shader, applicator brush and a smudge brush.

    Since I have had these I have had no issues with shedding and they wash very easily. For the price of them I am so so impressed. They would definitely make ideal brushes for someone just starting off, or even someone who needs a cheap set. You can find the set for sale here.