Redken “High Rise Volume” Duo – Review

If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll know that I’m obsessed with haircare. As a natural ginger, I’ve grown to love my hair colour and I’m very invested in keeping it bright and shiny. That means that I’m forever buying hair products and hoping to find a miracle.

As a Trainee, I’m usually working with a low budget so for years, I’ve avoided buying expensive shampoos and conditioners because I convinced myself that there was no difference, other than the branding. Then, Redken were generous enough to send me some of their products to try and I fell in love. For months now, I’ve been using the “High Rise Volume” shampoo and conditioner. I don’t believe that you can trial haircare in a few weeks so even though I received these products before Christmas, I held off on writing a post about them because I wanted to be sure that I thought they were worth the money.

The shampoo can be used daily but personally, I wash my hair every three days. While using this formula, I didn’t experience any build up in my scalp, which is a big problem that I’ve had while using other “volumising” products. I also like the fact that this formula does “sud up” well because it feels like you’re really cleaning your hair well when you use it.

I’ve been using the conditioner every time that I use the shampoo so I can only really review them as a pair. I use a generous amount of this product, after shampooing, and brush it through the hair with my Wetbrush. It seems to moisturise my hair really well, without making it greasy. Both the shampoo and conditioner contain a blend of filloxane and although I have no clue when it comes to the science of it all, Redken claim that this is what helps give the hair a lift. I have to say that in my opinion, it really works. After I started using these products, I noticed that there was no need to use volumising products or dry shampoo in my hair after washing it, to give it a boost.

As you can see, my hair is looking pretty healthy these days and I have to say that I’m delighted with that. I know that the Redken hair products don’t come cheap, but I think that I’ve really seen the difference. Although I got the Redken “High Rise Volume” duo as part of a press package, I repurchased them when they ran out after about four months.

To be honest, I can’t see myself going back to cheap shampoo and conditioner. I know that Redken is expensive but I got a solid four months out of each bottle (a little longer out of the conditioner) so I don’t think it’s one that will really break the bank. Plus, I think it’s worth the shine and the volume. Obviously in these photos, I’ve styled my hair with a curling tong but even when it’s straight, there’s plenty of volume around the roots. I have to say, I’m very impressed.

Obviously, given my budgeting issues, I looked high and low to find the cheapest stockist of Redken in Ireland and the best prices that I found were on beautyfeatures.ie – it’s not an affiliated link or sponsored, they just seem to offer really good deals and promotions.

So let me know what you think. Are you willing to spend some extra cash on haircare if it works better than cheaper alternatives?

Rouge x

Joico “Colour Infuse” Shampoo and Conditioner – Review.

“My real hair colour is kind of a dark blonde. Now I just have mood hair.” – Julia Roberts.

 

As a beauty blogger, I tend to receive a lot of products in the post and often, I find that they don’t suit my skin tone or colouring. However, I’ve never been one to waste a gorgeous product and this is where friends and family become extremely helpful. I’ve pretty much accumulated my own beauty product review panel.

 

 

A few months ago, I received a sample of Joico’s “Colour Infuse” shampoo and conditioner in the shade suitable for brunettes and, while it obviously wasn’t a match for my “ginja ninja” hair, I knew the perfect person to test it for us. I handed the Joico duo over to one of my most trusted family members, a very busy Mum of four who also happens to be brutally honest. And here’s what she had to say:

 

 

The thing about women is that we’re always busy. Whether you’re a career-driven “girl boss” or a stay at home “super Mum”, you will often find yourself questioning where the time disappears to, while you juggle sixteen tasks at once. So, where on earth do you find a spare few hours every six weeks to get your hair coloured? The answer for most of you is that you don’t! The majority of my time is spent running around after four boys. My weekends are filled with homework, football games, taekwondo lessons and rugby training. Go to the hairdresser every six weeks, you say? Hah! I would be lucky to see mine every three months.

For this reason, I was really intrigued by Joico’s “Colour Infuse” shampoo and conditioner. The brand promise that these products will not only help maintain your professionally applied hair colour but are also infused with “anionic dye technology” to intensify fading colour. But, do the products actually work?

Well, the best way that I can think to describe the results provided by these products are that they work as a “false tan, for hair”. After just one use, you will notice a visible difference in the intensity of your hair colour, as though it has been given a burst of life. After use, hair appears more shiny, radiant and as though you’ve got freshly coloured hair. That said, the results aren’t permanent, so I would suggest using these products regularly to maintain the effect.

All in all, I think that this shampoo and conditioner duo is worth every cent of the €16.99 price-tag (per bottle) and I will definitely be repurchasing. I use the products by massaging them into my hair and leaving both the shampoo and conditioner in my hair for approx 3-5 mins each before rinsing. If you have dry hair, I recommend leaving the conditioner in for 5 mins before rinsing. Your hair will definitely feel more sleek and smooth after use. One thing I would recommend is that you only use this formula every second or third wash, to avoid any build up – especially if you have a sensitive scalp. You can use a gentle cleansing shampoo and conditioner between uses.

You can clearly see the results that I experienced in the picture below which illustrates my hair before and after just one use:

They’re available in three different shades and, I have to say that I think these products are a winner! What do you think? For more information you can visit joico.com and, all Joico products are available for purchase in hair salons nationwide.

Rouge x

Cocoa Brown “Kind Shampoo and Conditioner” – Review.

“Gorgeous hair is the best revenge”. – Ivanka Trump.

 

Anyone who reads Rouge Writing Hood on a regular basis will already know that I’m a huge advocate for Irish women in business. And, I’m not the only one. Lately, it seems like every single woman on our little island has been swept up in the whirlwind that is Marissa Carter mania. Marissa is the entrepreneur behind Cocoa Brown, a self-tanning brand that is taking over the world. She is the ultimate “girl boss” and is constantly on the lookout for the next hot product to take the beauty industry by storm. And, yes – she’s gone and done it again. However, this time, some of you may be surprised to hear that Marissa changed the game by stepping outside the self-tanning zone and jumping head first into hair care. Let me introduce you to Cocoa Brown’s “Kind Shampoo and Conditioner”.

 

 

A couple of weeks ago, the gorgeous ladies at Cocoa Brown heard that I was making a little trip to New York City and very kindly sent me this super cute travel set which is filled with Marissa’s latest creations: “Kind Shampoo”, “Kind Conditioner”, “Kind Shower Gel” and “Face & Body Self Tanning Wipes”. Now, I did my best to save the products until I head off on a jet plane but, then I read Kate Kelly’s review of the shampoo and conditioner (check it out here) and my willpower faltered. So, I sneaked the hair care combo out of the very handy travel pack and stalked off, prepared to be transformed into the ginger version of Blake Lively.

 

Cocoa Brown Travel Set Available Here At Cloud10Beauty.com.

Cocoa Brown “Kind Shampoo”:

 

 

So, this baby is marketed as “volumising shampoo that’s kind to hair, scalp, colour and extensions”. Now, I know many of you are wondering what makes this formula more “kind” than other hair care products on the market and the answer is that it’s simply a paraben-free, alcohol-free and formaldehyde-free product. Hair care without the nasties, if you like.

And, I love it. I can definitely say that after only five washes, my hair feels thicker and more healthy. If you’re like me and you really enjoy a squeaky clean finish, then this formula is perfect for you. It gives a really nice lather without leaving dry, flaky scalp in its wake. The primary cleansing agents in the formula are coconut oil and fruit sugars so, as you can imagine, it’s pretty moisturising.

 

 

Cocoa Brown “Kind Conditioner”:

 

Again, this gorgeous formula is free from chemical nasties and ideal for sensitive scalps. Both the shampoo and conditioner from the Cocoa Brown “Kind” range have a soft peach and Tahitian gardenia scent but, this fragrance is so subtle that under Irish consumer law, it didn’t have to be listed as an ingredient on the packaging. So, it’s safe to assume that those who live in fear of strongly scented products need not worry about this formula.

For best results, I recommend leaving the “Kind Conditioner” in your hair for 3-5 mins before rinsing. This allows it to work its magic and moisturise the hair enough to create a noticeable shine.

 

 

 

So, what do you think? Both of these products are available in 200ml containers (for pre-order) on Cloud10Beauty.com at only €3.50 each – an absolute bargain. They will also be available for purchase in Cocoa Brown stockists nationwide on July 8th 2016. Will you be rushing out to purchase them? Let me know in the comments section.

 

 

 

Rouge x

Joico “Co + Wash Moisture” – Review.

“If I want to knock a story off the front page, I just change my hair style”. – Hilary Clinton.

At least three mornings per week, I find that the snooze button seems like a far more appealing option than washing my hair. Shampooing, conditioning and adding serum at 6 am sounds like an awful lot of effort to me – ain’t nobody got time for that!

So, it’s safe to assume that I was more than a little excited when Joico sent me a bottle of their “Co + Wash Moisture”, a one-stop product that promises to merge your hair care routine into a single step.  “Co + Wash Moisture” is a cleansing conditioner that is infused with nourishing ingredients like Jojoba oil and Shea butter. It promises to regenerate damaged, brittle hair – but does it live up to the hype?

 

I’ve been using Joico’s “Co + Wash Moisture” for over a month now and I have to say, I have fallen head over heels in love. I’ve even ditched the dry shampoo, apart from the occasional hair emergency. I use this formula by massaging it into my hair from root to tip and allowing it to settle for two minutes, before rinsing. It is super easy to dispense through the hair because the formula has a “whipped” texture – reminiscent of mousse.

Post washing, my hair feels silky soft and less dehydrated. This one would be a great option for summer because it’s nice and light. It’s also kind to sensitive scalps. The only minor issue that I would mention is that the formula doesn’t leave a “squeaky clean” finish – although hair definitely does feel refreshed. This generally isn’t an issue for anyone with really dry hair but I like to add a “pre-shampoo” step into every second wash to avoid any build up of residue.

 

Overall, this product gets a huge thumbs up from me – it’s every busy girl’s dream come true. Joico’s “Co + Wash” range also includes formulas which have been created specifically for curly and coloured hair and if you want details on those formulas; you can find them here. Joico is available in salons nationwide.

So, what do you think? Would you give this one-step formula a go or are you still having nightmares about those hideous Herbal Essences two-in-one shampoos of days gone by? Let us know in the comments!

Rouge x

Ziaja – “Goat’s Milk” Hair Care Range.

“Red hair, Sir, in my opinion, is dangerous” – P.G Wodehose.

 

Anyone who knows me personally, will also know that my hair is my favourite asset. I would choose my red gruaige over a bikini body any day. Which is just as well, considering that I haven’t darkened the door of a gym in approximately 3 years!

Although it seems that spring has finally sprung, many of you are still suffering from winter hair. Winter can be really harsh on hair due to constant changes in temperature which leaves it brittle and frizzy – an absolute nightmare! As a result, I’ve been getting loads of questions about my hair routine and the remedies that I recommend for stressed, dried out hair.

If you follow me on Snapchat (username: rougewriting), you will already know that I am a huge fan of Ziaja, an affordable Polish brand. So, when I heard that they were releasing a “Goat’s Milk” range for stressed out hair, I knew that I would fall deeply, madly in love. As a country girl, I already believe in the beauty benefits of goats’ milk, so I was really intrigued to see how it could be used to strengthen and revive hair. Subsequently, the Ziaja “Goat’s Milk” conditioner and hair mask have become staples in my hair care routine.

 

 

Ziaja “Goat’s Milk Strengthening Hair Conditioner” (€2.99/200ml):

Firstly, check out that price point! €2.99? Say, what? That’s cheaper than most supermarket brand conditioners. This conditioner is gorgeous. And, don’t worry – it smells nothing like goats’ milk. The formula is enriched with keratin, a really important ingredient for improving the elasticity of hair. This means that after a few uses, you should notice that your hair has become less brittle and more flexible. I found that the conditioner had almost instantaneous effects, hydrating my hair and improving shine.

I’ve been using this conditioner for over two months now, and I won’t be turning back. I use a small amount (€2 coin sized) and massage it through the length of my hair after every wash. I then leave it to settle for a few minutes before rinsing thoroughly. I tend to avoid applying conditioner to the roots of my hair unless my scalp is feeling particularly sensitive or dehydrated.

Ziaja “Goat’s Milk Strengthening Hair Mask” (€3.99/200ml):

Again, at €3.99, this product is a steal. The mask is a rescue remedy for heat damaged hair because it’s seriously hydrating. A little goes a long way, and you only really need to use this once every week or fortnight to see results. I find that it leaves my hair softer, and less prone to outbreaks of frizz. Plus, the vitamins in the goats’ milk formula add shine and vitality to hair.

All Ziaja products are available here. Overall, I can’t get enough of this range. I’m looking forward to trying the “Goat’s Milk Body Lotion” which was a winner at the 2006 Image Beauty Awards. Have you tried it? Let us know in the comments. And, if you recommend any other products from Ziaja, I would love to hear from you!

Rouge x

Kardashian Beauty – Hair Range.

“Kardashian Kraze” seems to have taken over the planet lately and, whether you love ’em or hate ’em, you cannot deny that the sisters rarely have a hair out of place. Therefore, when I heard that Kourtney’s, Khloe’s and Kim’s  haircare range was due to be released on Cloud10beauty.com, I was more than intrigued.

 

Firstly, check out that sleek packaging! Each formula produced by “Kardashian Beauty” has received approval from all three sisters, who regularly feature the products on their social media accounts. The main objective was to share a few of the style icons’ red carpet haircare secrets, at an affordable price point. I was lucky enough to be gifted two products from the range: the “Black Seed Dry Oil” and the “Take 2 Dry Conditioner”.

“Take 2 Dry Conditioner” (€13.95):

 

Like most ‘girls on the go’, I rely on dry shampoo far more than I ought to. Unfortunately, working 9-5 everyday just makes the whole ‘wash and blow-dry’ routine too tiring to bare every single evening.

The main problem presented by the use of dry shampoo is that often, it can leave hair looking lack-lustre. Sure, we all want squeaky clean roots but nobody wants dry, unhealthy ends. Fortunately, this dry conditioner formula from Kardashian Beauty seems to provide a solution. The product can be sprayed to the ends of the hair (from just below the ears) to create an illusion of shine and vitality. I have been using this product every second day, in conjunction with a generic dry shampoo and it works wonders – even friends have noticed and commented on my seemingly glossy mane.

“Black Seed Dry Oil” (€15.95):

Now, this stuff is like liquid cashmere. Just one tiny drop of “Black Seed Dry Oil” should be massaged through the ends of damp or dry hair to add shine and volume. Personally, I have been using the oil to counter-act the heat damage which I continue to inflict on my poor crowning glory with the curling iron and, have noticed a substantial difference over a two week period. My hair is easier to style and no longer knots and tangles after every wash. Well worth every penny!

All in all, I am really impressed with these products. Unfortunately, they have not instantly transformed me into a Kardashian sister but, the formulas are surprisingly high-quality. Furthermore, the price point is great, especially for the “Black Seed Dry Oil” which will last for months, given that you need only use a tiny amount per application.

All products are available at Cloud10beauty.com. I’m also dying to try the “K-Body Volume Foam”, which has received a thumbs-up from beauty guru Marissa Carter in the past few weeks.

What do you think? Do you buy into Kardashian-mania? Let me know in the comments!

Rouge x

Christmas Gifts for Her – The Save Edition.

If the “Splurge Edition” of my “Christmas Gift Guides, for Her” was a little beyond your budget, don’t panic – I have come up with a little guide, filled with goodies which are available for under €100.

Kevin Murphy – “Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang” Gift Set (€50):

 

 

If anyone is looking to buy me a Christmas gift, this is the one to choose. Kevin Murphy haircare is loved by celebrities worldwide, and I am just dying to try it out. This starter kit is the perfect treat for a loved one with luscious locks.  This set includes:

1 x Kevin Murphy Plumping Wash 250 ml.

1 x Kevin Murphy Plumping Rinse 250 ml.

1 x Kevin Murphy Limited Edition Plumping Lipgloss.

Available here from Shampoo.ie.

 

This Works – “I Have a Dream” Gift Set (€96):

 

 

If you have a loved one who has been particularly stressed out recently, this gift set will allow them to rest and relax in peace. This Works’ “Deep Sleep” remedies are designed to promote a blissful night’s sleep, using natural ingredients and essential oils. It may be a little on the pricey side at €96, but certainly worth it – especially for worn out Mums.

Available here at Thisworks.com.

 

Urban Decay – Gwen Stefani Palette (€46).

 

 

Does this one even need an explanation? There is not a woman on this planet who would not love this eyeshadow palette. The collaboration between Urban Decay and Gwen Stefani is quirky, fun and surprisingly wearable – I have been using every single shade in my own palette. However, I would describe this palette as quite neutral, so if your lady of choice prefers a pop of colour, check out the Urban Decay “Vice 4” palette.

The Gwen Stefani Palette is available here from Debenhams.ie.

 

Blank Canvas – 5 Piece Travel Brush Set (€49.95).

 

 

A girl can never have too many make-up brushes and this set is perfect for ladies who are always on the run. 5 essential brushes, stored in a handbag-friendly faux leather case – what more could we ask for? This would be a particularly great gift for festival goers and workaholics.

Available here from Cloud10Beauty.com.

 

REN – Beauty Booster Kit (€35.96).

 

 

The contents of this REN gift set are actually work over €60, so it is a pretty great bargain. Suitable for all skin types, the three products included promise to renew and revive tired skin. This one will come in particularly handy when the festive hangovers begin to kick in.

Available here from Cloud10beauty.com.

 

B by Ted Baker – Rose Print Kimono (€59.00).

 

 

Lingerie by Ted Baker is luxury at its’ finest. I love the rich rose print and purple trim of this piece – wow!

Available here from Debenhams.ie.

 

Chupi – Say My Name Gold Initial Necklace (€79).

 

 

I kept the best until last. This personalised necklace from Chupi is what dreams are made of. These necklaces are bespoke and can be altered to suit the individual for which they are being purchased. Personally, I would choose my initial to be paired with a red gemstone – my lucky colour.

Available here at Chupi.ie.

 

So, what do you think of these picks? And, if you had a limit of €100, what would you ask for as a gift? Let me know in the comments!

Rouge x

Graduation Day – What I Wore.

We do not need magic to change the world, we carry all the power we need inside ourselves already: we have the power to imagine better. – JK Rowling.

Friday 11th of September 2015 marked the end of the ‘University’ era of my life – graduation day at NUI Maynooth. The entire day was one dedicated to reminiscing on the past four years. There were ups and there were downs, but what I will remember above all else is the life-long friends who took the journey with me.

I was determined to look my best on the day because knowing my Mam, the photographs will take permanent residence on the walls of our house. Many of you have asked me to share the details of my outfit so here goes:

My dress was ‘Self Portrait’ and I purchased it in BT2. This brand has caught the interest of well known personalities ranging from Pippa O’Connor to Jenna Dewan-Tatum and now, I know why. The design is quirky and fun but the quality of this dress is AMAZING! It’s a statement piece so although expensive, I imagine that it will last a lifetime! You can check out ‘Self Portrait’s’ AW15 range at BT2 here.

 

Check out these gorgeous babies! My shoes were by ‘Lipsy’, purchased from Debenhams AW15 collection. I’ve been looking for some sassy, yet sophisticated black heels for ages and I think these are perfect. Some of you will already know that ‘Kurt Geiger’ produce ‘Lipsy’ footwear which means that they’re great quality at a fraction of the price of the ‘Kurt Geiger London’ range. You can find these ones here.

And finally, let’s talk about accessories. Because the dress had a lot of pattern and detail, I kept it simple and chic. This beautiful ring was sent to me by ‘Lucky Eyes London’ and is available for purchase here. It is advertised as ‘stackable’ but I love wearing it alone for a dainty, girly effect. If you would like to view the products before purchase, pieces from ‘Lucky Eyes London’ are now available at House of Fraser – I’m obsessed with their ‘Evil Eye’ bracelets too.

So, what do you think of the final look? Let me know in the comments, I love to hear your style advice!

Rouge x

The Body Shop ‘Virgin Mojito’ Range.

If you follow me on any form of social media, you will know that I am a huge fan of cocktails. In fact, I have been known to drag unsuspecting friends out for brunch simply for some fruity refreshments. My favourite, you ask? Well, James Bond can keep his Martini – make mine a Mojito. The zesty lime and tingling mint flavours make a Mojito and experience for the senses. They not only taste great, but also smell delicious so when I heard that The Body Shop were releasing a ‘Virgin Mojito’ range, I expected to be a huge fan.

  

I was sent the ‘Virgin Mojito Body Scrub’, ‘Virgin Mojito Body Sorbet’ and ‘Virgin Mojito Body Splash’ and have been using them in that sequence for the past two weeks. Initially, I’ll admit that I was a bit apprehensive. I mean, I love the smell of Mojitos, but what would the people at work think? I didn’t want anyone under the illusion that I’d undertaken a new diet involving cocktails for breakfast!

I needn’t have worried, The Body Shop have created this range based on the Caribbean scents associated with Mojitos, rather than the alcoholic ones. Each product unleashes a burst of fruity fragrance upon application so steer clear if you’re not a fan of sweet scents but, I for one am OBSESSED!
  
First up, we have the ‘Virgin Mojito Body Scrub’. This is my favourite product of the range. I’ve been applying it to dry or slightly damp skin and massaging before rinsing it off in the shower. It’s a very gentle scrub so if you’re looking to remove lashings of false tan, you may need something more heavy-duty but this is perfect for regular, everyday exfoliation. My skin has become significantly more healthy looking after just two weeks of use.

  
Next, I’ve been using ‘Virgin Mojito Body Sorbet’. I wasn’t a huge fan of the texture of this lotion when I began using it because it is a gel consistency rather than a cream one. I love my rich, luxe body butters but after using the  ‘sorbet’ formula for a few weeks, I have grown used to it. Due to the fact that it is a light moisturiser, this product would be perfect for those with oily skin.

  
Finally, I have been drowning myself in the gorgeous ‘Virgin Mojito Body Splash’ after every shower. I just cannot get enough of this scent. The fragrance is zesty and sweet, ideal for the summer season. It also clings to skin for hours after application so it is great value for money. I’ve actually been reaching for it in the place of expensive perfumes lately.

Overall, this range is well worth a look if you enjoy a fresh, fruity fragrance. If you want more information you can visit The Body Shop’s website.

What’s your favourite skincare range at the moment?

Rouge x

Get The Festival Look.

As a few of you will already know, I made a trip to Longitude festival in Marlay Park at the weekend. Hozier, you were fantastic – I have no objection if you would like to serenade me in the near future. 

Many of you have been asking about my festival look via Twitter so I’m here to share the details. Unable to pull off any sort of hipster chic, I opted for a casual jeans look. I’m madly in love with my Salsa Denim jeans which I purchased in Brown Thomas. They’re designed to slim and define the thigh and bum area, perfect for anyone who is a little body concious. You can explore similar styles here. I paired my jeans with a simple top, a chic sun hat and some Hunter Boots which are admittedly very expensive but extremely comfortable! 

  
Many of you will have noticed that I love my neutral eyeshadow / red lipstick combo but this weekend, I decided to try something a little different. Sleek sent me some gorgeous palettes to play with and I couldn’t resist a pop of colour! 

  
 
How pretty are these babies? I used a combination of ‘Arabian Nights’ and ‘Del Mar Volume II’ to create the perfect festival look. 

I began my look using the ‘Del Mar’ palette. I used the neutral, yet shimmery shades of ‘Loco’ and ‘Pearl’ as base shadow. Then, I applied a dusting of the lilac purple shade ‘Puro’ to the inner corner of the lids. Next, I opened up the treasure trove that is ‘Arabian Nights’, using the electric blue shade ‘Simbad’s Seas’ and ‘Aladdin’s Lamp’ to add definition in the crease and outer corner of the eye. I also used the rusted bronze of ‘Aladdin’s Lamp’ to line my lower lashes. 
  
I loved these shadows. They’re really highly pigmented and easy to blend. The best part? They’re a steal at just €10.49 each. The only problem is that both palettes are limited edition, so I suggest visiting your local stockist before they sell out! 

  

I completed my look with a little gel liner, a splash of neutral lipstick and some generic diamanté jewels. 

What do you think? As always, keep me updated if you try any of the products!

Rouge x