My 7 Essential Haircare Products | Short, Coloured, Wavy and Over 40 Hair!

Recently, I've been sharing my personal beauty essentials for the FACE and BODY and today it's the turn of Haircare.

I've been trying to cut through the amazing amount of beauty related bulls*it I see online, in-store and in glossy magazines.

These 7 items are ALL I need to care for my tricky tresses.

My hair has been all lengths and colours and believe me when I tell you that I've spent a FORTUNE searching for those ultimate hair saviours.
I've tried countless brands and countless products over the years... from cheap as chips basics to high-end luxuries.
I've tried them all!

As I have said in my previous posts, I'm all about peeling back the thick rind of hype and sharing genuinely great products that I buy over and over.
Products that deliver.
No-nonsense items that I wouldn't want to be without.

1. Bleach London Silver Shampoo

Many silver toning shampoos are harsh and drying, leaving your tresses frizzy and parched... They can even strip the colour out of your hair!

This one from Bleach London is (relatively) gentle and smells great.

A little goes a long way.

It makes a lovely lather and leaves my hair squeaky clean.

I don't use conditioner.

For me, conditioner is just coating my hair with silicones and I'd rather get a drop of penetrating oil on it after my shower to give it a treat (more on that later).

Plus, I hate the feeling of conditioner on my skin... that slimy feeling gives me the shudders!

{NOTE: I don't wash my hair every day}

2. A Microfibre Head Towel

My hair has been waist length, shaved and everything in between and I always use a hair towel regardless of the length!

Back in the olden days, my hair towel was good old terry cotton.

Microfibre didn't exist back in the day so we made-do with what we had.

Now I have the luxury of using both.

(I still have my old cotton head towel that is still going strong, albeit no longer very photogenic!)

Wrapping your hair in a quick drying towel has its obvious benefits (shorter drying time) but its also great for keeping your hair out of the way if you're putting lotions and oils on your body, getting dressed or you're doing your makeup.

It keeps wet hair off your clothes and stops that annoying neck trickle!

I wouldn't be without mine.

3. Moroccan Oil

This is a lifesaver for me.

A few drops of this and my hair is moisturised, soft and even shiny... well, as shiny as coloured, over-40 hair can get!

It lasts for ages.

This bottle is over a year old and still has plenty left in it.

Pricey but worth every penny.

It conditions and styles.

Keeping that annoying frizz at bay!

4. Tangle Teaser

This little brush is OLD.

I bought it when my little ones were still little ones.

They liked to go swimming, and thick waist length curls were getting stressed-out when we tried to get them tidy and tied back.

This brush was fantastic at de-tangling without the tug.

You can use it wet or dry.

They still use it and so do I... every day!

For such a flimsy looking brush it has lasted brilliantly.

Easy to use.

Easy to clean.

When it eventually gives up the ghost I'll definitely be replacing it.

5.  Aveda Control Paste

I love this product!

It lasts for AGES and it great value for money.

This thick styling paste is not for everyone.

It does what it says...

Defines.

Holds.

BUT, your hair still moves if you touch it.

It leaves hair smelling AMAZING and feeling nourished.

My girls love it for sticking down flyaways.

I love it for adding texture and sticking my hair up in a quiff.

6. Mark Hill Hairspray

This is my hairspray of the moment but I'm not loyal to any hairspray brand.

This one is nice enough though!

It smells good and does a great job at holding without residue, flakes or stickiness.

I'm glad I found it BUT I'll still try whatever brand catches my eye next time I need to re-stock.

7. Scissors!

This essential of mine will seem like an odd one for many people but I couldn't be without this duo!

When my hair is looking a bit bushy (between salon visits) I simply sort it out myself.

A trim here and there and a few snips of the thinning scissors and I'm good to go for a couple more weeks.

Cutting your own hair is not for faint-hearted but I've been doing it for years and can snip with confidence.

Give it a go... it's not as hard as you think and if you mess up it grows back!

WHY NOT TRY THEM FOR YOURSELF...

Wearable Neon and Animal Print | The Fab40s

 

Neon and animal print are going to be BIG fashion news this season, and wearing them together scores you double the fashion points... maybe even more!

Animal print and (especially) Neon can feel a little full-on, and they are certainly NOT for the fainthearted when paired together!

My 6 Essential Body Beauty Products (they might surprise you!)

In my bid to cut through the amazing amount of beauty-BS out there, I'm sharing with you my 6 essential beauty products for the body.

These 6 items are ALL I need to wash, treat, de-fuzz and moisturise.
I use them every time I shower (even the razor... more on that later) and my skin is blemish free and smooth all over, even in the traditionally rougher areas like elbows and knees.

I'm not saying this to boast or be show-offy... "Oooo my skin is soft!"
I've just had a lot of comments about my skin over the years and have been asked what products I use.

You can also see 'My 6 (Facial) Beauty Essentials' HERE.

As I have said in my previous posts, I'm all about peeling back the thick rind of hype and sharing genuinely great products that I buy over and over.
Products that deliver.
No-nonsense items that I wouldn't want to be without.

For every item I share here I've tried countless alternatives.
Some were cheap and cheerful, some ridiculously expensive.

(What WAS I thinking?)

I've done the legwork and wasted an unthinkable amount of money in order to get to the nitty-gritty.

The number of products I've handed on to friends and family is HUGE.
Embarrassing really.

{I once gave my husband a Decleor gift set that had brought me out in a nasty rash and he used the face cream on his feet!
Hahahahaha... hilarious but not very funny to any Decleor fans out there.}

So today I'm sharing a blog post about genuinely fantastic products that I regularly re-buy.

Products that offer REAL RESULTS.
Products that (in most cases) are cheaper than chips!

My 6 Body Beauty Essentials:

These products are my genuine go-to's.
My re-buys.
My saviours.
My body's best friends.

DISCLAIMER: These products work brilliantly for ME.
Which means they might work for you, or they might not.
It's all down to your skin concerns and needs.

 In Shower:

1. Any Good Quality Soap

Soap is back in fashion.

It's official.

Soap is making a comeback because of it's eco-credentials.

Personally, I never stopped using it.

I use it to wash my body and shave my bits and bobs.

Any good quality, fine milled soap does a great job.

It smells lovely and leaves my skin clean and soft.

I've never been into shower gels.

They don't last long enough, are easily wasted and are too harsh on my skin... even the 'gentle' versions.

Plus, I can't get a decent lather.

A bar of soap, on the other hand, lathers up like a dream, lasts forever and can be used for everything.

{Quality soap is one of my favourite gifts to receive!}

I've tried every type of shower product from gels to creams to milks.

I've tried a HUGE number of brands from the supermarket's own to Chanel.

I've tried LOADS of formulations from baby wash to luxurious concoctions.

I always come back to soap because it works.

2. A Flannel

Why bother with anything else when a good old fashioned flannel does it all?

A hygienic way to wash your body.

Perfect to reach nooks and crannies... between toes and behind ears.

The best exfoliator ever!

Cheap and effective.

I've tried EVERYTHING from puffs to loofahs to body brushes and I return to this old workhorse every time.

TIP: The thinner the flannel the better. 

Forget luxury makes and get the budget option. 

Not only do they wash and dry quickly (when doing your laundry) but they are thinner, rougher and less fluffy, therefore easier to use on your body and more effective at exfoliation!

3. A Simple Razor

When it comes to hair removal, I've tried it all...

• Electric razors
• Epilators (both electric and those funny rods)
• Depilatory creams and lotions (from the cheap to the silly-priced)
• Professional waxing
• Home waxing (Oh lord that was a disaster!!)
• Sugaring
• Those hair zapping devices
• I'm sure there is more but I've blocked it out...

You name it and I've (probably) given it a go.

I always come back to this...

A simple (two blade) razor.

Every time I stray from the path (and feel the need to spend money) I return to my trusty old friend.

I shave ALL unwanted hair every time I shower even though my hair is fine and light in colour.

I can't stand those little prickles as the hair comes in AND I like to be ready for any outfit I want to wear at a moment's notice.

My legs are ready to be in a dress at any time.

I'm even swimsuit ready if you fancy going for a swim!

It's not for everyone (I'm all for embracing your body hair if that's your bag) but that's just how I personally feel comfortable.

For me, a simple razor is quick and easy.

I don't get any irritation when I shave with my lovely soap and my skin is left super-soft and smooth.

A razor can be used as and when you need it (or want it) and leaves no mess.

{You might want to read more about Awkward Facial Hair HERE.}

4. Neutrogena Face Wash

Wait a minute!

Wasn't this featured on the 6 Facial Beauty Essentials list?

Erm.... yes it was.

Bear with me though.

It really is a beauty all-rounder.

This face wash (and mask) is so inexpensive that I use it regularly on my body without feeling like I'm being wasteful.

NOT all over (it can be a little drying) but on targeted areas such as between my shoulder blades.

Anywhere that is prone to a little extra oil production.

Anywhere I like to feel squeaky clean.

It really does work like a charm and if you apply a quick mask-layer to your back it leaves your skin perfectly smooth and ready for that backless dress or bare shoulders.

A brilliant product in summer, or for any special occasion.

Get yours HERE.

Post Shower:

5. (non-mineral based) Body Oil

I'm a real fan of both facial and body oils.
I love most body oils from the cheapest to the most expensive as long as the oil is one that absorbs well and smells great!

The Bodyshop do nice oils that last for ages (seriously!) but at the moment I'm using an oil from Dr Organic.
It's lovely but it does run out of the bottle too quickly... the Bodyshop one is better for that.

A few drops goes a long way.

I usually buy whatever oil is on special offer and that I love the smell of.

TIP: Body oils are great if you don't like the chilling effect of a lotion.
When you rub lotion on your skin the water element of the lotion evaporates and causes a cooling effect on the skin.
If you live in a colder climate or simply dislike that sensation try a body oil.
An altogether more pleasant experience!

As you've probably guessed by now I've tried MANY body lotions in my time.
Countless.
From baby lotion to Jo Malone.
Nothing beats a body oil


6. Sanex Roll-On Deodorant

This roll-on is my go-to.
A cheap and cheerful product that is lightweight and effective.
No stickiness.
No aerosol 'chill'.
No powderiness.
It doesn't nip (even straight after shaving) and lasts all day.
Brilliant.

Why pay more for something that doesn't work as well?

Are you surprised at how basic my essentials are?

I'd love to know YOUR top 6 body care 'must-haves'!
Please share in the comments or drop me an email at fakefabulous.com(at)gmail.com.

'Wearable' Colour Blocking | Winter Outfit

The colour blocking 'trend' is going nowhere for 2019 and I'm SO happy about that!

{See my original Colour Blocking post from 2017 HERE... when it was a 'new trend', and not for the first time!}

Winter Outfit Idea | Long Culottes, Secret Layers, Leopard and a Cropped Top

For me, Culottes are still going strong in the style stakes.
The fashionistas may be over them, but I'm not ready to let go just yet.

A long pair of culottes (like the ones I'm wearing today) are surprisingly practical for all weathers.

This particular long khaki pair is covering my culotte slip (of course) AND a pair of silk leggings.

I'm all about the layers in winter.

6 Amazing (and cheap) FACIAL Beauty Products | NOT SPONSORED

As a mum of teen girls, I am constantly being "educated" about the latest must-buy beauty, or makeup, products that will not only make me more beautiful but will also change my life... for the better!

Leopard Midi Dress and Cropped Leather. Embarrassing Mums!

I love an outfit that provokes a reaction and this one certainly did that!

This particular outfit made my middle daughter cringe and guess what?
I loved it!

Trends to BAG and BIN in 2019

How to nail the Big 2019 Trends without spending BIG.

Is it just me, or do the BIG 2019 trends seem almost impossible to fit into your everyday life?
Are these trends just for Instagram fantasy posing or can they be worn in real life?
Do we really need to go shopping or can we re-jig what we already own?

Casual over 40 Outfits don't need to be Frumpy!

I often wonder why some stylish (over 40) women miss the mark when it comes to casual dressing?

These women can look effortlessly chic in their workwear.
Their evening outfits look elegant and stylish.
Even their gymwear is chic and co-ordinated.

Then you see them in a 'casual' look and wonder what happened?

Of course, style is a very personal thing and I think we all have the right to look how we want and wear what we like, BUT I casual outfits get left behind in the style stakes.

A "that'll do" attitude to casual dressing can snuff out any potential style flame.

Choosing a casual outfit should be like choosing any other look.

It should reflect the casual version of YOU.

When I spot someone in some interesting colour, texture or an unusual casual silhouette I feel my heart do a little leap of joy.

Today I'm all-out casual in the classic 'Trainers + Jeans + Jumper' combination, but I'm still trying to maintain a little bit of my personal style.

It's not so hard to do...
Pick comfy trainers that make you smile (mine have ruffles).
Whether that's your favourite colour, a bit of embroidered detail or some cute cut-outs.
Why settle for boring?

My tapered jeans have a real late 80's/early 90's vibe and I love them.
Why settle for a dragging hem, baggy crotch or saggy bum?
Pick a style that makes you feel good.

Trainers and jeans can feel stylish!

The jumper I'm wearing today is a favourite of mine... see it styled HERE, with a pleated skirt...HERE, with jeans and leopard boots.

This outfit is topped off with my teddy coat... see it styled HERE with a leopard skirt!
This big hug of a jacket has to be better than a scabby fleece, doesn't it?

A backpack continues the casual vibe but leather always takes it up a notch in the style stakes.

3 ways to up your Casual Outfit game:

1. Choose 'luxe' fabrics

• Heavy denim
• Wool
• Satin
• Silk
• Leather

Quality always wins in the style stakes.

2. Try twisting your classics

Jeans, jumper, trainers and a jacket needn't be drab boring.
Add texture, colour, pattern, embroidery, details and FUN!

3. Don't get stuck in a rut

If you feel your casual style hasn't changed since the 90's then it's time to mix things up a bit.
Donate your old jeans to the charity shop and invest in a new shape that makes you smile.
Relegate that scabby fleece to dog-walking duties and find a fun alternative.

The casual version of you deserves to look her beautiful best!

What is your go-to casual outfit?
What pieces do you love?

How do you 'keep it chic' on those easygoing days?

COAT: Next
JEANS: Topshop
JUMPER: H&M (old) ... this one is pretty.
SHOES: Puma
BAG: Vintage... similar.