What Lyd Did

Long time readers of the blog will know my battle with blemishes, and how I'm always looking for the answer to my acne scarring. While I know that laser treatment is ultimately the answer, there are things I can do at home to make my skin healthier and happier. My latest love is the Magnitone XOXO cleansing brush, which I was sent in exchange for honest review.

A mint green, rounded triangular device. One point has small raised lines, one has larger lines, and the other has lots of small silicone bristles.

The brush has been made to be totally user friendly. The silicone casing is fully waterproof, easy to clean, and doesn't hold moisture or bacteria like traditional nylon bristles. Both the shape and the silicone make it very easy to hold, even when wet, and the compact size makes it easy to travel with. Unlike similar devices, it's also rechargeable, with a 2 hour charge lasting one month.

There are 3 areas on the brush: bristles for oily skin, small lines for dry or sensitive, and wide lines for massage, so you can choose which works best for you or mix it up depending on your skin's behaviour. All the functions are powered by 8000 micro-sonic vibrations per minute, which can be sped up or slowed down at the click of a button on the device.

To use my Magnitone XOXO, I remove my makeup, apply my favourite Superdrug cleanser, then step in the shower and let the device slowly glide over my face, no need for scrubbing. In my problem areas I chose the bristles, the small lines everywhere else, then finish with a massage all over, focusing on the jawline for lymphatic drainage.

A photograph of me in my grey tiled bathroom wearing a mint dressing gown and white hair turban, holding the magnitone on my face

In all honestly I was a little doubtful before my first use that just a few lines of silicone could really make my face as smooth as an exfoliating scrub, but the sonic pulsations worked their magic and I stepped out of the shower with skin that felt soft, refreshed, yet not at all tight like some scrubs can leave it.

After a few weeks of using the Magnitone XOXO once every other day, I can safely say I'm converted. Using it has almost become a step in my self care routine because it's such a relaxing sensation, and even my family members have noticed the effect it has had on my skin. It's not as puffy, my scarring seems smoother and less angry, and I've found myself using less foundation and concealer.

The only flaw I can find with the design is that the chunky, rounded shape just can't reach the corners of my nose and the pores right beside it, which are trouble areas for me. It would be handy if the device tapered or the bristles continued over the side to make it that bit more precise. Aside from that, my complexion and I are happy bunnies!

My What's Up series is widening its horizons! This time we're stepping out of England and putting the spotlight on Erddig, a National Trust house in Wrexham, North Wales.

My first visit was on a Spring day and I was blown away by the beauty of the place. We arrived at opening time when it was quieter and we had plenty of time to explore the lovely handmade brick outbuildings which house the old blacksmith's workshop, timber yard, and penny farthings and carriages. The stables even still house donkeys which you may be lucky enough to see and stroke!

Erddig Hall

Stepping into Erddig, I immediately felt a difference to most National Trust houses. While it is still large, grand, and full of the history, artwork, and furniture I've come to expect from such estates, there was still a homely, comfortable atmosphere. It felt like a happy home.

Although some rooms have their curtains drawn to protect the fabrics from fading in sunlight, others are bathed in natural light, and even the servants' corridor, lined with photos and handwritten stories of them, has views out over the fields.

There are still children's toys in the rooms, the chapel ceiling is painted with a prayer asking God to protect all who set foot on the estate, and the volunteers told us that the family of the house was vegetarian, which was very different for the time.

a large rectangular pond lined with trees and hedges, with a large, red brick country house at the far end. The picture is taken on a sunny day, the grass is green and the sky is clear and blue.

Erddig Gardens

I don't think there are words to describe the beauty of Erddig's gardens, but I'll certainly give it a try! The back of the house has steps leading into a walkway flanked with beds of yellow and purple flowers, and in front of that lies a huge, rectangular pond, with a walkway around it full of mint, apple trees snaking up the walls, and cherry trees in bloom.

The pond itself is home to geese, which were nesting on the banks, and friendly carp, which popped up to the surface hoping for snacks as we passed, while the walkway leads off into yet more areas to explore. A forest school for little ones to go wild, a picnic area, beehives, Victorian glasshouses, and a walled garden full of flowers.

All around the garden there are seating areas that are perfect for taking time to reflect and enjoy the beautiful settings, and a trail for children to follow to get them engaged with the plants and trees around them.

a wicker basket of brown leaf shaped cards, and another filled with paper labels, on a wooden table

Eating at Erddig

One thing is for sure, you won't go hungry at Erddig! There are plenty of picnic benches in the front pond area, main courtyard, and beside the forest school, and their own ice cream parlour, tea room, and coffee shop offering everything from snacks to full, hot meals.

On our visit they were all understandably very busy so we drove to nearby Llangollen, which is full of eateries, for lunch, and I couldn't write this post without recommending you pop into the Courtyard Cafe if you're in town. They served the most delicious freshly baked bread I've ever eaten!

After my visit, I can see Erddig becoming one of my favourite National Trust properties, and somewhere I'll visit in every season. The garden looks truly gorgeous in Spring, but I can imagine Erddig Hall is lovely at Christmas too. If you'd like to see more of my days out, make sure to follow me on Instagram, as I often post them in my stories.

What's your favourite National Trust property?

While many brands nowadays branch into tonnes of different products, I always feel that Pixi sticks to what they know and love, and it works for them. They tend to be all about creating a bright, fresh look with their makeup, and nurturing a healthy, glowing complexion with their skincare line.

I love pretty, natural makeup all year round, but especially during Spring when the flowers are making their appearance and everything feels renewed. With flattering formulas and radiant finishes, these Pixi products are perfect if you're refreshing your makeup routine for the season.

A pink plate with a green book and white faux flowers on it. On and around the book are a peachy tube of lipgloss, a tube of peach highlighter, and a round tub containing a champagne and peachy pink blush.

Glow Booster

At first I assumed this was a liquid highlighter that could be mixed in with foundation or applied on top, but it's very runny and not super shiny, so my personal preference is to apply it alone or under makeup to add a glow when my skin is dull. It doesn't feel at all greasy or heavy on the skin, and the slight peach tint adds to to the brightening effect.

Lip Lift Max I use Honey Sheen

When I was growing up there was a big trend for plumping lipglosses, and I remember formulas that were so high in menthol your lips would feel as though they were on fire! Luckily, Pixi created one with just the right amount, so it feels fresh and very slightly tingly but not at all irritating on the lips.

As well as plumping the lips slightly, bringing the blood to them has the added effect of making them more pink, making this a really handy gloss to keep in your bag or just sweep on when you're rushed or looking for an easy option.

The micro shimmers in the formula serve to enhance the healthy lip look without feeling gritty. It's almost like a cross between a thick gloss and a balm, so your hair may get caught in it but it won't disappear in minutes.

a pale green rectangular palette with 9 pans of cream colour in various shades of peach and pink

a round pale green pot containing blush split into two halves, one champagne, one peachy pink. The pot is sat on a green book with pink flowers and a pink makeup brush beside it.

Beauty Blush Duo I use Peach Honey

This formula is sadly a little chalky so again, it doesn't have that bright, metallic highlighter look, and neither shade looks quite right on the cheekbones, but I like to swirl them together to use as a blush topper for a peachy glow on the cheeks.

Dulce's Lip Candy

Dulce Candy was one of the first YouTubers I began watching around 5 years ago, so I trust her experience and knowledge and it was exciting to see her collaborate with Pixi on versatile cheek and eye palettes that are natural and pretty, in line with their other products.

The formula in the lip candy palette is similar to my beloved Stila Convertible Colours in that it feels comfortable and looks good on both cheeks and lips. While I'm a long time lover of cream blush I imagine even oily skins would like this because it feels more like a stain sinking into the skin than a product sitting on top of it.

There is a shade in the palette to suit everyone, and they can be built up for more intensity or mixed on the large lid to create custom colours, making this an ideal pick for makeup artists or frequent travellers. The only flaw is that the creams won't last all day on your lips, and it's quite a big palette to cart around in your bag for top ups.

What makeup products do you reach for in Spring?

Whether it's because I'm wide awake worrying, dreaming up new designs for my Etsy shop, or just can't get comfortable, I'm not great at getting to sleep these days, so I've developed a set of sleep essentials I can rely on to help me catch those Zs.

This post contains items gifted in exchange for feature and honest review.

Space Masks

gifted in exchange for review
Available from spacemasks.com or Feel Unique

These dreamy masks contain iron particles sandwiched between the plush layers that oxidise and heat up, providing a soothing sensation for tired eyes. Having that warmth, weight, and darkness over my eyes sent me off into a deep sleep, while the design of the mask allowed it to stay on comfortably so I wasn't disturbed.

Alongside the iron, the masks also contain jasmine extract to add a touch of aromatherapy, but I personally couldn't pick it up- blame my allergies. However, I see this as a good thing, because I know they will work wonders when I get migraines, which make me sensitive to strong scents. The individually wrapped masks mean I can keep them handy in my bag, and the heat will relieve the sinus pressure perfectly.

Essential Oils

Speaking of aromatherapy, I like to reach for this double act on nights where I know I'll need a little extra help. Whether it's really plant power or just the routine of using them, I'm not sure, but I do enjoy including them in my routine.

First I spritz my pillow and the top of my duvet with Feather & Down's Sweet Dreams pillow spray, which, unlike traditional headache-inducing lavender scents, combines real lavender and chamomile essential oils for a fresh, sweet scent.

To add a further boost of bedtime relaxation, I apply the Tisserand Sweet Dreams roll on to my wrists, behind my ears, and soles of my feet- which tickles like mad. The idea is that my body will absorb some of the essential oils and work from the inside.

Amazon Echo Dot*
previously gifted- full review here
*affiliate link

If all else fails, Alexa is beside my bed and ready to play rain, waves, or whatever restful soundtrack I require. These sorts of sleep sounds are free to listen to and play for hours, so you won't be nodding off only for it to fall silent. The device doesn't light up while music is playing either, so you won't be disturbed, and you can whisper your chosen track and volume, no need for finding the right buttons in the dark.

What helps you get to sleep?

My food and drink at Red's True Barbecue were provided in exchange for honest review.

My sister has raved over Red's True Barbecue many times, but it never seemed like my kind of place. I tend to choose carb based dishes instead of meaty meals, so I was intrigued to read that Red's were launching some lighter plant based and fish options, making the menu inclusive for vegans, veggies, pescatarians, and religious diets alike.

The new discoveries, as I learned on my trip to the Manchester branch, are the findings of an annual trip the team makes to America, to taste what's new on the barbecue circuit and even compete themselves. Their passion even helped them to earn the title of 1st place outside the US!

Atmosphere

Stepping into the restaurant, I definitely noticed that it's a casual, fun place to eat. The interior is dark and industrial, with wall features made of neon lights. The table we were seated at was part of a spacious room off the main dining area, so despite being dark, it didn't feel cramped or unpleasant, it just made for a different experience.

Although the vibe is casual, the service wasn't rushed or half hearted. Every member of the team was excited to talk to us, and the servers were polite, friendly, and happy to tell us their own favourites.

Drinks

I may be teetotal but it's still nice to have a 'treat' drink when I'm out, and the mocktails at Red's left me spoilt for choice. I tried their Berry Mojito and Hawai-Tai, which combined red bull with passionfruit syrup, and both were fruity, sugary, and utterly delicious.

If you like your drinks with a kick, there are boozy malt shakes or an extensive range of cocktails, including a black cherry slushie for an adult twist on a childhood favourite.

Starters

Before my visit, I had never considered myself a rib person. They're usually just too much faff for such little meat, but the ribs at Red's were actually my favourite starter! Thanks to the low, slow smoking the bone just slid straight out and the fat was soft and melty, not chewy.

The same applied to the pork belly, something I usually avoid, but the honey glazed crackling was surprisingly good, and I especially liked the crunchy mixed slaw served alongside it. It was lightly dressed with balsamic vinegar rather than mayonnaise, allowing it to cut through the richness of the pork.

Veggies can tuck into garlic mushrooms on toast or jackfruit nuggets for their starters. The toast with was soggy and spongy so I didn't enjoy that, but I was super excited to try the popcorn. I've never had jackfruit before so figured that a restaurant that knows their barbecue would be the best place to taste it, and Red's didn't let me down.

Rather than being pulled to emulate pork, chunks of jackfruit are baked then coated in a light, seasoned batter, and served with a zingy roasted red pepper and tomato dip that complemented it perfectly.

Mains

The new mains cater for everyone, with grilled salmon and an Alabama fish sandwich, a superfood plate and meat-free tray, and Memphis pork belly served with bacon and garlic kale to mention just a few.

My favourite from the selection I tried has to be the new Moving Mountains vegan burger, which you can add pulled jackfruit to. I'd heard great things about this soy based burger and it met my expectations. The patty had a true barbecue burger taste, and the inside was juicy while the outside had crisped up to deliver a good mix of textures in every bite. I also felt it was lighter on the stomach than your average burger.

The new sides offer lighter options too, with charred broccoli and baby gem lettuce with chimichurri joining the line up alongside barbecue treats like pit beans and fries topped with pulled pork and chipotle cream. Personally I felt these sides just made the meal too meat heavy so it was great to have fresh and flavourful vegetables instead.

Overall

The menu is large and varied, but the dishes are developed by true barbecue lovers rather than churned out by a chain. Too often the token veggie dish is a boring bean burger, but times are changing, and in my opinion the plant based dishes at Red's True Barbecue were the best of the bunch. They were not an afterthought, but well considered dishes that would satisfy anybody, whether you're a full time veggie, flexitarian, or just fancy something new.

Which dishes would you choose?

The Lilibeth of New York Brow Shaper was gifted to me in exchange for honest review. This post contains a non-affiliate discount code, I will not earn money from it, but you will receive 10% off your order.

Unwanted facial hair is one of my top first world problems. My eyebrows seem to grow inches overnight, I've inherited my dad's moustache along with his love of cheesy jokes, and don't get me started on the hairs on my chinny chin chin!

My tweezers are always close at hand to deal with rogue hairs, and I pluck and trim my bushy brows once a week, but in sunlight I have noticed pesky peach fuzz that would be far too time consuming and painful to pluck.

I decided that dermaplaning at home was the answer. I could not only remove these fine hairs, but dead skin, too, leaving my whole complexion smoother and better prepared to absorb products so they work more effectively.

a small baby pink folding blade sat on a pink book with white flowers next to it

There are unbranded face razors available online, but I worried that they may be too sharp or not sharp enough. You can't be too careful with your delicate facial skin, so I felt much happier putting my trust in the well known and well loved Lilibeth of New York Brow Shaper.

Available in a range of colours, the Lilibeth Brow Shaper is small and discreet, easily fitting in a makeup bag or handbag. The blade folds into the handle, meaning it won't hurt you or damage items in the makeup bag, and the blade is kept sharp and sanitary. It retails for £7.49, making it much cheaper than a trip to the salon, and you can use the code lydia10 at www.makeupboxldn for a further 10% off!

The instructions are simple: hold the blade at a slight angle and use light, short strokes on clean, dry skin. I would advise practising on the back of your hand first to get used to it. I expected a very smooth, sweeping motion like shaving my legs, but due to the serrations it does have more friction against the skin.

a closer look at the serrations on the blade of the brow shaper

Perhaps it was the serrations, my technique, or just the fact that my skin is drier than Summer in the Sahara, but after the first use my face did feel a little chapped and sensitive for an hour or so and was pink in some areas. I expected to wake up with soft, glowing skin, but it actually felt rougher than ever because I was no longer stroking the layer of fine fuzz.

In smaller areas however, the results were brilliant. Whereas it can take me 20 minutes to fully pluck my brows, they were cleaned up in under a minute with a few swishes of the shaper, and my skin felt fine afterwards.

Personally I'll be keeping the Lilibeth Brow Shaper in my bag for taming my brows and touching up spots I may miss when shaving (is it just me who steps outside in a skirt then notices a forest on her ankle?), but if you have normal to oily skin and want to give dermaplaning a go, you have nothing to lose but your peach fuzz!

How do you deal with unwanted hair?

ABOUT LYD

FIND LYD

POPULAR POSTS

Categories