PRODUCT REVIEW: MARY KAY MAKEUP FAVOURITES

One brand that I find is totally underrated is Mary Kay. The products are only sold online or through consultants, which perhaps is a reason, but even so, the brand has so many amazing products. So today I am going to do a rundown on some of my favourite Mary Kay Makeup products..

RY HAUL - LULU AND LIPSTICK, J BRONZE, EVO, EYE OF HORUS, ASAP, YOUNGBLOOD

PRODUCT REVIEW: RIMMEL LONDON VOLUME SHAKE MASCARA, FILLING POWDER AND FIBRE PENCIL

One of those drugstore brands that has really hit the mark lately with their products, is Rimmel London - and now they've certainly done it again with their newest releases, which include the Volume Shake Mascara, Brow Shake Filling Powder and Brow This Way Fibre Pencil..

Let's start with the Rimmel London Volume Shake Mascara, which has what claims is the first-to-market patented shaker system that refreshes the volumising formula whenever it’s needed, which essentially also means that the mascara is never dry, as the formula is made up from a combination of water and waxes, which goes from dry to creamy whenever it is given a shaken 3-5 times. The mascara is thereby refreshed, for maximum result from the first to the last use. The mascara also promises clump-free volume, and smudge free defined lashes 

I haven't personally noticed the mascara go dry yet, but that's perhaps because I unconsciously has been given it a quick shake before each use. I do like the large wand of this mascara, which is easy to use on both top and lower lashes, easily coating even the smaller lashes in the corners. It does take a few moments to dry, so you have to be a little patient.

As for volume and definition, it does certainly add both definition and length without any clumping, making my lashes look very natural, it also adds a touch of volume, but nothing too dramatic, so it is a great mascara for every day casual and natural look.

Because of the shaker system, the mascara is a little bulky, but I never apply makeup on the go, so as I never carry mascara around, I personally I don't really mind.

Then there's the Rimmel Brow Shake Filling Powder, which also needs to be given a shake to disperse the powder to fill, line define and line the brows. The powder is soft and quite pigmented so one stroke is more than sufficient for my brows, though you can build up the intensity. And as promised, it is fade, smudge, transfer and waterproof, so it really does stay put until you remove it at night with makeup remover. It has a small and very narrow little sponge applicator which makes it easy to apply precisely, drawing along your brows and filling them in, though I do find that it has a little fall-out when you apply it, so be sure to tap off any excess powder before using it, or you'll end up with a less than natural look and a bit of a mess. But that said, once I mastered using it, I've really come to enjoy this one and can see myself repurchasing. It come in four shades, and I used the Dark Brown, which is perfect for my medium brown brows.

Finally, there's the Rimmel Brow This Way Fibre Pencil. This brow pencil has nylon fibres to give definition, and claims to be the first of its kind brow-plumping pencil, that is to be highly pigmented to softly fill in brows for an intense yet natural colour. It deposits tiny integrated fibres to add realistic volume to sparse areas. The fibres hold fast to brows for long-lasting wear. I am not sure if it was because I'd just tried the Filling Powder, but I have to say that I did not find the pencil pigmented at all and I was struggling getting any colour at all, but after warming it a little on my hands, it did help a little, though I still wouldn't call it highly pigmented. However, that said, for an everyday casual look, I do like how it helps define by brows and make them look more groomed, and yes, all while looking very natural and far from drawn on unlike many other brow pencils - but I am not sure I actually find that it is giving my brows more volume, just more fullness. If you're after an intense bold look, this Fibre Pencil is not for you, but if you just want to subtly define your brows whilst keeping a natural 'no-makeup' look, then its certainly worth a try.


So there you go, the newest product releases from Rimmel, and yet again, some great ones. If I have to take a pick, the standout for me, once I got used to it, would have to be the Filling Powder.


Rimmel London Volume Shake Mascara, RRP $18.95 / 9ml
Rimmel London Brow Shake Filling Powder - RRP: $14.95 /0.7g
Rimmel London Brow This Way Fibre Pencil - RRP: $10.95/ 1.08g

Available from Priceline, Target, Kmart, BIG W, selected pharmacies and selected Coles and Woolworths

* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram | 

PRODUCT REVIEW: OTTOMAN3 BROW BONE HIGHLIGHTER AND BROW POWDER

Just a few years ago, brow products were relatively rare, but today with the trend towards larger and more natural brows, means that those of us who have spend years plucking our brows according past seasons trends, means we're not reaching for brow products on a daily basis. And as a consequence, more and more are popping up helping everyone achieve the perfect brows. 

One of those new brands is Ottoman3. The brand not only has brow bars where you an go and get your brows professionally done - they also have a beautiful range you can purchase online or in their shops. I've been lucky to put a few products to the test..

I tried the Ottoman3 Brow Powder in the shade Rich Brown, which is a dark brown shade, and perfect for my dark brows. The powder has been designed to help fill in your brows for a more natural look without any harsh lines. It is easy to apply with the Ottoman3 Double Ended Brow Brush, using the angled brush to fill in the eye brow shape, before blending it all in and coming into shape with the bristled spoolie at the other end. This brush has the classic Ottoman3 design in white with gold details, and so easy to use.

The matte brow powder is very pigmented and light too, and it stays put all day, without smudging or fading, and all while looking so natural too. The Brow Powder comes in a little compact, which considering how little you'd need to use each time, is actually huge, so it will literally last you forever. But due to the shade of this, you can actually also use this as an eyeshadow too if you like . The white compact with the golden details is absolutely stunning and also comes with an internal mirror.

Then there's the Ottoman3 Brow Bone Highlighter, which is a thick crayon style pencil that is designed to define and highlight the brow bone for a more fresh and luminous look. The pen has a matte highlighter in one end and a shimmery in the other, so you can pick your preference. The matte gives a soft highlight look while the shimmery end gives you more of a dewy glow. Of course you can also use it elsewhere, as the dual ended pen makes it possible to highlight, shade, contour and define, so you can also use it to brighten the corner of your eyes, or as I have, even used it lightly as an eye shadow for a simple look. Or you can of course also use it cupids bow of your lips. The pen has a soft and creamy formula that makes it quick and easy to apply, and it blends easily and evenly into a natural look.

And that about this cute Ottoman3 Cosmetic Bag for storing all our makeup. The stunning white design with the signature gold trim and detail is just so divine, and the details has been inspired by the founders long haul flight overseas, touching up her makeup just before arrival, when a flight attendant commented "Touching Up before you Touch Down?', and I think we can all relate - I know I can! And with this cute bag, it means you can store all your essentials in a stylish way.

These products from Ottoman3 not only look amazing with their white and gold designs, they really are beautiful to use too, so be sure to go check out their products, you won't regret it.


Ottoman3 Brow Bone Highlighter - RRP: $26 / 3.34g
Ottoman3 Brow Powder - RRP: $32 / 4.3g
Ottoman3 Duo Brow Brush #1 - RRP: $18
Ottoman3 Makeup Bag - RRP: $22

Available from Ottoman3

* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |

PRODUCT REVIEW: NATIO BROW KIT AND HIGHLIGHTER DUO

Today I'm excited to be talking about Natio again… the other day I told you about the Natio limited edition release of the Naturally You Eye Shadow Palettes, which you can read more about here - and today I am excited to be telling you more about another of their recent new releases, the Natio Brow Kit and the Highlighter Duo. 

The Natio Brow Kit is a little kit that contains everything you need for perfectly groomed and shaped brows, including Brow Powders, a Brow Wax, an Angled Brow Brush, Tweezers, Round Grooming Brush, and even a small mirror.

There's a light and a dark brow powder so there is one to fit most brow colours, and they are both quite pigmented and easy to build to the depth of shade you want. I only need to use the tiniest amount as I prefer a more subtle look, and I've been using the darker shade, which is a great fit for my dark brows. And the angled brush makes this super easy as you can create fine small lines to fill in your brows for a very natural look. And actually, you can also use these brow powders as both eye shadows and even eyeliner too, and who doesn’t look a good multi-tasking product.

Once filled in, the final step is to brush the colour through, style and tame the brows with the spoolie brush, and set everything in place with the clear wax.

This is such a great kit that really does contain everything you need. I love that it comes with all the tools, and that there's a small mirror in the compact too, but personally I'd never apply brow product on the go, so I won't really use the mirror. The tools are very useful, but also very small, - and as I do have longer-shafted brow tools myself, I do prefer to use those as I simply find it easier, but at least they are included so you're covered in you haven't got any yourself.

Then there's the Natio Highlighter Duo is a double-ended highlighter pencil, which can be used to add luminous glow. The pencil has a golden shimmery shade in one end and a pink shimmery shade in the other, and it is so soft and smooth to apply and easy to blend too. It can be used for so many things, including

In the inner corners of the eye, under the brows, on the bridge of the nose, top of the cheekbones or on the cupid’s bow for a healthy glow, or even as a subtle eye shadow, which I admit to also have done with both shades individually -and it stays put all day without fading or settling into creases.

As I expected, these product are really lovely, and of the usual high quality I've come to expect from Natio, so I definitely recommend that you check them out. For me, the highlight was probably the Highlighter Duo, simply because I love the fact that I can use it as an eyeshadow stick as well, but note that it is limited edition, so you best hurry if you want to get your hands on one.


Natio Brow Kit - RRP: $19.95
Natio Highlighter Duo - RRP: $17.95

Available from Myer, David Jones and select pharmacies

* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |

PRODUCT REVIEW: DR HAUSCHKA EYE AND BROW PALETTE AND MOISTURISING LIPSTICK

One of those brands that I used a lot growing up in Denmark was the German brand Dr Hauschka - but when moving to Australia, I didn't really see it anywhere. Last year, I put some of their new products from their limited edition Spectacular Comeback Makeup Collection Autumn/Winter 2016 to the test, which you can read more about there. And I have really enjoyed using these products, and still reach for them, so I was excited when some of the products from the revised makeup range landed on my desk.

The new range consists of a massive 82 products, which are all based on medicinal herbs to help activate the skin's natural abilities, plant waxes and oil including jojoba, avocado, and macadamia nut oils for intensive nourishment and smooth skin, silk and minerals for naturally radiant colours and nourrishment and reduced shine - and all these ingredients are of course 100% natural and NATRUE certified, and contain no mineral oils, parabens, silicones, phthalates and PEGs and of course no synthetic chemical fragrances, dyes or preservatives.

The Dr. Hauschka moisturising Lipstick is made with mineral pigments and botanical ingredients such as rose petals, almond oil and carnauba wax, and it has a gorgeous floral scent. It feels so lovely on the lips, and the soft formula glides on easily, and as it is quite pigmented, just one swipe is sufficient for a full coverage, with a slight sheen. The shade Paeony is a rich dark red shade, that is so stunning, - a dark classic red shade that is perfect for a night out, or simply to brighten up your everyday makeup. Due to the pigmentation and dark shade, it also has a good wear of several hours, though a little less if you eat or drink, but even when it fades, it does so evenly, leaving behind a nice stain on the lips. 

Then there's the Dr. Hauschka Eye & Brow Palette in the Stone combination, which contain four beautiful shades. All shades are matte, and ranging from an off-white, a taupe, a chocolate brown and a very dark brown that combined help create depth and the perfect smoky eye, and perfectly shaped eye brows. The mineral eye shadows contain silk powder and nourishing botanicals such as black tea to moisturise and soothe the delicate skin around the eyes - and they are so soft and easy to work with. You can naturally use shades individually for a more simple every day look, or easily build up the intensity as they are so pigmented. The eye quad comes in a gorgeous round shaped black compact, which has a large internal mirror, and also comes with a double ended applicator with a soft rounded brush in one end to be used for the eyes and a tapered brush in the other end, to use on the eyebrows. The eye shadows also have a gorgeous floral scent, that you can only adore. 


I really enjoy using these products. The lipstick has a gorgeous shade and is beautiful to wear, so I can see myself checking out the rest of the range, and also checking out the sheer lipstick range, as well as the pretty blush duo's and the colour correcting powders.

If you're looking for beautiful 100% natural makeup, then I highly suggest that you check out this new range from Dr Hauschka.


Dr. Hauschka Eye & Brow Palette - RRP: $70.00
Dr. Hauschka Lipstick - RRP: $49.01

Dr. Hauschka is available from David Jones, Active Skin, Adore Beauty, Facial Co, and Dr. Hauscha Online

* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |

PRODUCT REVIEW: RIMMEL LONDON SCANDALEYES RELOADED MASCARA, SCANDALEYES BOLD EYELINER AND BROW THIS WAY

Today I am excited to share with you some newly launched products from Rimmel London. In my opinion, Rimmel had some killer product launches lately, including their gorgeous matte lipstick range! And today's run-down is no exception.

First up is the Rimmel London Waterprof Scandaleyes Reloaded Mascara, which is a waterproof version of the Rimmel Scandaleyes Reloaded Mascara launched last year. This mascara claims to be a breakthrough, that can create a new dimension of intense volume without clumping, and that you can layer it up to 11 times without it looking clumpy!

My one issue with the mascara is that it is very 'wet,' so the first couple of times that used it, I found that it simply put too much mascara on my lashes, causing issues - but after wiping it down, I now really like it.

Like the 'original' it has a oversized soft bristle brush, which I really like, as it is super easy to use, easily coating both inner and outer lashes.

The mascara does a great job giving my lashes both length and volume with just one coat, and adding a few more it does give create long lashes with lots of volume with a slight curl too.

My sensitive eyes water very easily, so I do love that it is waterproof, - but it does naturally require a good makeup remover to remove it at night, but I generally use one for waterproof makeup anyway, so no biggie for me.

It comes in a stand-out bright purple slightly bulky plastic tube with orange writing, but containing 12mls of mascara, it is also larger than most mascara, which are usually around the 8ml!

Last year, Rimmel launched the Brow This Way eye brow range, and now, the Styling Gel has been improved with argan oil added to the formula to help condition and soften the brows, while improving the appearance of the brows at the same time.

The Brow This Way has a mascara style brush that is easy to comb through the brows, and the tapered brush, helps ensure the perfect shape, both taming and tinting the brows at the same time, giving them a very natural yet polished look. The actual gel is light, and stays put all day without smudging or fading, as well as it keeps the brows neatly in place too. I was always a fan of the original version, so no complaints from me with the new improvements.

Finally, there's the Rimmel Scandaleyes Bold Liquid Liner. This eyeliner is different to most other liquid eye liners as it has a very unique ball-tip applicator. It does take a little bit of getting used to, but again, mainly because it is so different, but once you got the hang of it, it is actually quite easy.

This eyeliner can draw an intense black line, or you can be inspired by the runway and make on-trend dots along the lower or upper lash line - and all with a nice glossy finish. I also love that it is waterproof, and doesn’t fade or budge throughout the day.


Overall I really love these new products from Rimmel, and are definitely worth trying.


Rimmel London Waterproof Scandaleyes Reloaded Mascara - RRP: $17.95
Rimmel London Waterproof Scandaleyes Bold Eyeliner - RRP: $12.95
Rimmel London Brow This Way Styling Gel with Argan Oil - RRP: $12.95

Available from Priceline, Chemist Warehouse, Target, Kmart, Big W and selected pharmacies, Coles and Woolworths.

* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |

XMAS BEAUTY GIFT IDEAS UNDER $25

Today I've got a selection of Xmas gift ideas suitable for any beauty lover, and the best part, none of them will break the bank as they are all under $25, so they're great stocking fillers too.

First up is the Olive Hands Gift Set, which contains a Pomegranate Hand & Nail Cream (50ml) as well as a Blackcurrant Hand & Nail Cream (50ml). Inside the purple gift box you'll find the two tubes of hand and nail cream, the purple Blackcurrant and the Pink Pomegranate one, and I really love these brightly coloured tubes.

Each of the creams have the most gorgous fresh and natural fruity scents, with my personal favourite being the Pomegranate as it is slightly fresher. The cream has a lovely consistency and absorbs quickly and easily into my dry hands, leaving them silky soft and smooth, without any stickiness and with the gorgeous scent lingering for quite some time. Olive is a New Zealand brand, known for their natural skincare made from active and botanical ingredients and which are all free from parabens, mineral oils, colourants, artificial fragrances and silicones.

Next up there's the Evodia Byron Bay Frangipani gift set, which contains a Hand Cream (100ml) and Fragrance Roll-On (15ml). The Hand Cream is made with among others Sweet Almond Oil, Jojoba and Avocado Oils as well as Cocoa Butter. It is a thick and rich hand cream, which naturally takes a few moments to absorb into the skin but the wait is worthwhile as is super nourishing and moisturising, and leaves you hands silky soft for hours. It has the most gorgeous frangipani scent, that is quite strong for a hand cream, which I really love as it means the beautiful scent lingers for a long time.

The gift set also includes a frangipani Roll-On fragrance - and don't be fooled by the little roll-on bottle, as this one really packs a punch. It is a very concentrated fragrance designed to roll onto your pulse points for a lasting floral scent - and should you want to touch-up throughout the day, it has the perfect size to pop into the handbag.

Then there's the Goodness Grab & Go Try-Me Kit. As Goodness says, "this pack smooshes, drips, squeezes and scoops all your natural skincare needs. Packed with mega-omega boosting certified organic chia seed oil, your skin, your mates or your carry-on will love you for it". This means that this skincare kit really contains everything you need for a trip away, including a Certified Organic Seed Oil (5ml), which is a light oil containing high doses of Omega 3 and Omega 6. it also contains an Every Day Cream Cleanser (20ml), which is a super gentle cream cleanser that removes all makeup, dirt and grime that has built up on your skin throughout the day (and night). It contains apple extract, chia seed, avocado and coconut oils. It also contains an Every Week Face Scrub (10ml), which as the name suggests is a facial scrub to be used weekly. It is packed with powdered pumice, chia seed, avocado and coconut oils, and it gently helps buff away dead skin cells to help reveal as clearer and smoother skin. Then there's the Every Morning Moisturiser (20ml), which is a lovely light, yet very hydrating cream that apart from the chia seed, avocado and coconut oils, also contain bilberry and hibiscus extracts. Finally, the gift set also includes an Every Evening Cream, which is a jar with a very thick and nourishing cream, while it is still non greasy and absorbs into the skin quickly. It contains the chia seed, avocado and coconut oils aw well as honeysuckle flower extract. Goodness is a New Zealand brand, and I love the pastel coloured tubes and jars, and the humorous comments printed on the labels such as 'apply to clean face. Admire your awesomeness (and check your teeth for kale), and Remove Makeup. Apply. Sleep. Wake. Repeat after 15-18 hours".

 

If you're after makeup, Sugarbaby has got a the most stunning nude eye shadow palette called Amplif-eye Natural Eyeshadow Palette. This palette contains 14 beautiful neural shades ranging from soft nudes to intense chocolate and charcoals, and even a black. The top row of the palette contains 7 shimmering shades, while the bottom row contain 7 matte shades. The shades are soft and easy to apply and blend, and they are also, especially considering the very low price of this palette, very pigmented and wear very well during the day. This means that you can easily build up the intensity of the shades (and even more so if you apply them with a damp brush!), or of course just apply them as a wash of colour. All the shades in the palette are beautifully coordinated so you'd use every single shade, and they are very wearable for both a day-time 'no- makeup look, or a more intense nighttime look. If you cannot afford or justify the hefty price tag of some of the branded nude eye palettes, then this one from Sugarbaby is a great alternative. I also love the packaging, the white leather look, with the large internal mirror and the double ended brush applicator, makes it look very sleek and stylish, and also more expensive than it really is.

 

 

Designer Brands also have countless gift sets that you cannot miss, including the Nude Pout Perfection Gift Set. This set is a 3 piece lip kit that contains just what you need to enhance your natural lip shape and achieve a full luscious lip, including a nude shaded lip pencil to use to outline your lips. It also includes a velvet lipstick in a nude soft mauve shade, that is giving you full colour intensity in just one swipe, and a matte look that lasts hours, while still feeling soft and non-drying on the lips. Finally, there's also a pale golden shimmery lip gloss that you can use on top for a plumper and fuller looking lips. Or of course, you can use both the lipstick or the gloss individually on their own. This kit is also available in a Ruby Red option for those preferring a bolder lip.

 

For the brows, Designer Brands has this great Brow Perfection Set, which contains absolutely everything you need for the perfect brow, including tweezers to pluck the brows, and Angled Brush and a Spoolie to shape and fill in the brows, a brow powder kit with three different powders so you can custom select your perfect shade for filling in the brows. It also contains a bro pencil to add shape and definition, while the 5 stencils helps you shape your brow like a pro, and gives you different looks to try too.


Olive Hands Gift Set - RRP: $19.95
Olive Skincare is available from Olive Online and select pharmacies

Evodia Byron Bay Frangipani Gift Set - RRP: $19.95
Available from Myer stores, selected pharmacies, gift and home wares stores and from Evodia online.

Goodness Grab & Go Try-Me Kit - RRP: $24.95
Available from Goodness

Sugarbaby Amplif-eye Natural Eyeshadow Palette
Available from Sugarbaby Online and Myer

DB Designer Brands Nude Perfection Lip Kit - RRP: $14.99
DB Designer Brands Brow Perfection Kit - RRP: $12.99
Available from Designer Brands

* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |

PRODUCT REVIEW: BOE PROFESSIONAL BROW STYLING

I have previously talked about Boe Professional, as it is a very affordable range of on-trend makeup products, still offering good quality products.These days most girls wouldn't leave the house without also doing their brows, and as a result, most brands have launched collections with various brow styling products, including now Boe Professional.

The range includes;  

• Tinted Brow Gel
• Precision Wind-Up Brow Pencil
• Complete Brow Kit
• 3-in-1 Brow & Lash Brush

 

The Tinted Brow Gel is available in three shades, Natural to Medium, Dark and a Clear, and is helping enhance, groom and set the brows. The gel comes with a mascara style spindle brush that makes it super easy to apply and make your brows appear fuller and thicker brows, while also setting them so they stay in place.

  

The Precision Wind-Up Brow Pencil is a fine and soft brow pencil that helps fill in sparse areas naturally, making the brows look more defined and sculpted. The pencil is super soft, and as such not very pigmented, but rather appears as soft faint lines, but that is also what helps make your brows look very natural.   

 

 

Then there's the Complete Brow Kit, which comes in two colour combinations, Natural to Medium and a Dark, and it is kit that contains both a creamy wax to sculpt the brows as well as a powdery shade to help define the brows. It also contains an angled brow brush to help shape the brows, as well some mini-tweezers so you can pluck stray hairs. It comes in a stylish square black compact with a large mirror, and is super easy to apply. The only thing that I would have liked to see included in this kit as well would be a little plastic 'shaper' to make it a little easier to create the perfect brows if you're a little unsure of how to do it.

 

 

Finally, there's the 3-in-1 Brow & Lash Brush, which helps style both lashes and brows. It has a mascara spindle, a brushand a comb, and combined these tools helps separate lashes and get rid of any mascara clumps, as well as style and groom the brows. I have to be honest and admit that I never comb my lashes after applying mascara as I rely on the mascara doing this, and if its a decent mascara it shouldn't clump anyway. But regardless this tool is very handy to have at hand to keep your brows styled and in place.

  

Overall I am enjoying these products, and in particularly enjoy using the Tinted Brow Gel, for the pure reason that it is just so quick and simple. I am also enjoying the Brow Pencil. I haven't been using the kit that much, but that's only because of time restraints as I do find that it takes a little longer to use than the pencil and the gel. But all in all, you do get great value for money with these products, so definitely worth checking out when you're next in BigW.

 

 

Tinted Brow Gel - RRP: $9.95

Precision Wind-Up Brow Pencil - RRP: $10.95 

Complete Brow Kit - RRP: $1295 

3-in-1 Brow & Lash Brush - RRP: $9.95

  

Boe Professional is available exclusively from BigW

  

* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

 

Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |

 

 

L'OREAL PARIS NEW PRODUCT LAUNCHES JULY - DECEMBER 2016

A few weeks ago I was so lucky to be invited to the launch of the new L'Oréal Paris products for the second half of 2016. This launch event also covered skincare and haircare, but I will tell you about those in separate posts.

Like most other brands, L'Oréal is also jumping on the contouring craze with the introduction of the Infallible Sculpt Contouring Palette. This palette contains two shades, a lighter shade to lift and highlight as well as a darker shade to create the illusion of a shadow and sculpt the hollows of you cheeks and temples for a combined more sculpted look.

The product has a gorgeous cream to powder consistency, that feels gorgeous on the face, and is super easy to blend. As promised it really also does stay put throughout the day, even on my combo skin.

It comes in two combinations, Light and Medium/Dark, and it comes in a long slimline case, which has a mirror on the inside, as well as a useful instruction booklet that shows you how to sculpt your face depending on your face shape.

No launch is of course compete without a new mascara, so L'Oréal is launching the False lash Sculpt Mascara. This mascara has a very unique plastic comb brush where you first use the tip of the brush to gently press the brush on your waterline to fill in between the lash roots. Hereafter you use the brush as you usually would apply mascara, and it volumises the lashes, coating even the smallest of lashes for a more fanned out sculpted look. I've always been a fan of L'Oréal mascaras, and I think this new one will be no exception - once I actually get a hang of using the tip to fill in between the lash roots without smearing the mascara everywhere!

Another on trend product is for the brows, and new from L'Oréal is the 2-in-1 Brow Artist Sculpt. My current brow favourite is the Brow Artist Plumper from L'Oréal as it is simply so quick and easy to use - and now L'Oréal is really taking it one step further with the Brow Artist Sculpt. It has a very unique brush that features a sculpting felt tip to give shape to the brows while the bristle brush helps style and fix brows, for more sculpted-looking brows. You simply use the felt tip to draw over the brows and follow with the brush part to shape and fix. It has a powder-to-cream texture, and gives a very natural look. I'm still unsure if it will take over from my trusted Brow Artist Plumper, but it's certainly a good contender. It is available in two shades; Brunette and Dark Brunette.

For the nails L'Oréal is launching three new pastel shades into the Infallible Gel Nail Polish Range. These long 'pens' features the nail polish/base coat in one end, and the gel activating top coat in the other end. These polishes leave your nails looking plumper and with a super shiny finish to resemble a UV manicure. The polishes have been enriched with a flex-resin that promises to make the manicure last for up to 12 days without peeling, chipping or cracking. I have used these previously and do love the look and intense shine these polishes give your nails, and while I do agree that they make your manicure look nice and shiner for longer, I unfortunately don't quite get the 12 days wear, more like a week or so, which is still longer than with your 'average' nail polish, so still pretty good. Also love the pastel shades, which is always nice to brighten up the dark winter days and clothes, plus they'll be perfect come spring and summer too. The Infallible Gel Nail Polish Pastels are available in three shades;

• 40 Marshmallow Power
• 42 Unlimited Lollipop
• 43 Endless Candyheart

Finally there's the Colour Riche Le Vernis Super Graphic Pop, which is a new range of super bold colours. I love these Le Vernis polishes, they are easy to apply with a streak-free result, and they last considerably well, and the small bottles come at a reasonable price so you can justify getting several shades! The new Graphic Pop range include four new shades, including;

• Pop Corn 240 - Achieve the perfect bright pop on your nails with this light yellow, solid shade with no orange undertones
• Cloud Wow 241 - A cool sky blue shade for the cutest baby doll effect
• Pink-O-Pop 242 - An iconic pink shade, with the perfect blend of pure rose pigments with a hot pink finish
• Green LOL 244 – available grocery only Green is re-invented with the lightness of turquoise pigments and the depth of blue (not pictured)

In addition (and not pictured here!), L'Oréal is also launching a Blush Sculpt Contouring Palette, which is a 3-in-1 blush trio, where shades can be used individually or blended together exactly how you like it for a sculpted look with a luminous glow. These blushes look absolutely beautiful, so I definitely want to get my hands on at least one of the combinations. It is available in two shades;

• 102 Nude Beige
• 201 Soft Rosy

Also new is the L'Oréal Infallible Fixing Mist, which is a setting spray that helps set and stabilise your makeup to give it a more professional look while making it look just-applied for longer. With my combination skin, I'm always struggling getting my makeup to stay put, even with a primer, so using this setting mist may just be what my skin needs.

And finally, L'Oréal is also extending the colour range of its True Match Foundations, which is supposedly one of the best-selling L'Oréal foundations, to make sure it is easier to find your ideal shade. I've actually never tried this foundation, so must definitely check this out too to see what all the hype is all about.


L'Oréal Paris Infallible Sculpt Contouring Palette - RRP: $29.95
L'Oréal Paris False Lash Sculpt Mascara - RRP: $25.95
L'Oréal Paris Brow Artist Sculpt - RRP: $20.95
L'Oréal Paris Infallible Gel Nail Polish Pastels - RRP: $12.95
L'Oréal Paris Colour Riche Le Vernis Super Graphic Pop - $7.95
L'Oréal Paris Blush Sculpt Contouring Palette - RRP: $26.95
L'Oréal Paris Infallible Fixing Mist - RRP: $24.95
L'Oréal Paris True Match Foundation

L'Oréal Paris is available from Priceline, variety stores and selected supermarkets and pharmacies

* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |

 

PRODUCT REVIEW: RIMMEL LONDON BROW THIS WAY

Brows are all the rage at the moment. Years ago they had to be so thin, but today, the bigger and bolder the better, and makeup brands around the world seems to jump on the bandwagon and launch their own range of brow products. Including Rimmel London, who a little while ago launched their Brow This Way Range.

The Brow This Way range includes:

• Brow This Way Brow Sculpting Kit, available in Medium Brown #002 and Dark Brown #003
• Brow This Way Sculpting Gel in Clear
• Brow This Way, available in Blonde #001, Medium Brown #002 and Dark Brown #003

On the days I don’t wear makeup, which is actually rare, as I mostly tend to at least wear mascara and a lipbalm, often a tinted one, I like using the Clear Brow This Way Styling gel as it keeps my unruly brows in shape, as it is a non-sticky clear gel that gives the brows a touch of subtle shine at the same time.

On the days where I wear a full face of makeup my go-to is without a doubt the tinted Brow This Way Styling Gel in. I love how this brow gel with a mini mascara applicator makes it so quick and easy to give your brows a uniform shape and keep them staying put all day. And in spite of being coloured, it gives the brows a natural look that is smudge proof and feels comfortable to wear too.

Finally, there’s the Brow This Way Sculpting Kit which contains a wax and a powder. You first use the wax with the angled brush to shade and define the brows, and hereafter you use the other end of the brush to apply the setting powder to fill in sparse areas of the brows and to create a bolder look. Finally, you use the spoolie brush to lock in the shape and colour so it stays put all day

In essence, with these products it is now so simple to define, groom ad shape your brows just like you like them. The clear gel is perfect for those you prefer a simple groomed look, while the tint gives a little more shape and definition while still looking natural. Finally, if you’re after a stronger bolder look, the kit is the best option.

Personally, my product of choice is the tinted gel, as it is simply so quick and easy to apply, and for someone with a baby and a toddler running around my legs, that’s simply currently the best option. I also enjoy using the kit, but for someone a little unexperienced with it, like me, it does take that little bit longer to use, and also is a little more fiddly.

But overall I think it is fantastic that Rimmel has considered all situations and created products suitable for everyone! I personally enjoy using all the products and wouldn’t hesitate purchasing either of them again.

The products have an RRP of $12.95 each and are available from Priceline, Chemist Warehouse, Target, Kmart, Big W and selected pharmacies, Coles and Woolworths.

* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |

 

PRODUCT REVIEW: PAULA'S CHOICE

The brand Paula’s Choice has been around for quite some time, but only just recently launched in Australia. Here are my thoughts on the All Bases Covered Foundation, Brow-Defining Cream Duo, Maximum Impact Mascara and the Gentle Touch Makeup Remover;

 

 

What They Say:

All Bases Covered Foundation: This lightweight, creamy foundation offers light to medium coverage, evens out skin tone and protects.

RRP: $30 (30ml) – Available from Paula’s Choice 

Brow-Defining Cream Duo: Show off those brows like never before. With two mixable shades, you can create your perfect eyebrow colour for fuller, thicker-looking, smudge-proof brows.

RRP: $31 – Available from Paula’s Choice 

Illicit Lash Maximum Impact Mascara: I’m shutting my eyes on clumpy lashes. Sweep this smudge proof mascara on with the specially designed rubber brush for long, beautifully separated lashes.

RRP: $21 – Available from Paula’s Choice 

Gentle Touch Makeup Remover: Give old makeup the rub, without the scrub. This dual-phase solution takes off even waterproof mascara quickly and gently. Reduces puffiness too.

RRP: $20 (127ml) – Available from Paula’s Choice

 

What I Say:

I’ve heard a lot about Paula’s Choice products from overseas bloggers, but never had a chance to try any of the products myself. So when the products launched in Australia and I was offered to trial a selection of their products, I happily accepted.

The All Bases Covered Foundation is a foundation that is designed for dry to very dry skin, and I have to say here that technically it is not the right fit for my combination skin. However, I still like this lightweight foundation that absorbs quickly into my skin and gives it a nice dewy finish and a natural look. It is easy to apply and blend with your fingers, and it has a good coverage, covering minor pigmentation and redness, leaving my skin looking more even. The coverage can easily be built up to medium with an extra layer on the required areas. However, with increasing pigmentation (not helped by being pregnant) and some old acne scars, I do feel I still need to use a concealer to cover these areas, as well as darker circles under my eyes.

The foundation can supposedly be used on its own, without using a serum and moisturiser prior, but I have to say that even with my combination skin, I wouldn’t skip my daily moisturiser. The foundation also has a mineral based UVA/UVB SPF 25 to protect skin from the sun’s damaging rays.

The All Bases Covered Foundation doesn’t seem to make my skin break out, and lasts fairly well on my skin without settling into fine lines, although I do need to ‘powder’ my nose and t-zone area by the afternoon – but again, I think that is mainly due to my combination skin, so I am sure it would stay put better on the normal to dry skin types as it is intended.

The Brow-Defining Duo is a cream duo intended to be used to fill in sparse brows and make them look fuller and more defined. To be honest, I haven’t always used brow products, but years of over-plucking means that my brows now are thinner than I like them to be, so brow products are not a part of my daily routine too. The Brow-Defining Duo comes with two shades, a lighter and a darker shade as well as a double-ended brush with an angled brush in one end and a small spoolie in the other. The angled brush is perfect to use to apply the cream definer, and you can either use the shades individually or combined for the perfect colour match. Here after you use the spoolie to help shape and brush the brows into place.

 

The Brow-Defining Duo is easy to use – although I do admit to using a ‘mascara-style’ brow product on the days where I’m in a hurry – but in saying that I do like the more refined results that this duo gives my brows. The cream seems to have a bit of wax included too, so your brows stay in place all day, as well as the colour of course stays put too, without running or smearing.

The cute little compact also comes with a small mirror so you can apply, or touch up on the go if you like. The only other thing I could have wished was included would be a small brow stencil, which would have been very handy for a brow novice like me!

 

Next is the Illicit Lash Maximum Impact Mascara. I have very sensitive eyes that easily gets irritated and water, so in general I tend to wear waterproof mascaras to avoid the panda look occurring during the day. The Illicit Lash Maximum Impact Mascara isn’t waterproof, but claims to be smudge proof, which I can vouch for as it did stay put even after my eyes had been watering. It has a large flexible rubber brush that makes it easy to reach and coat every single lash, even the smallest of lashes in the corners of your eyes, and it nicely separates and defines the lashes without any clumps. I also like that it keeps the lashes feeling soft, unlike many other mascaras. 2-3 coats of this mascara gives your lashes a nice look, with both volume and length and a touch of curl, but I wouldn’t go as far as to call it Maximum Impact as the name of the mascara suggest – however, still, it is a great mascara for every day wear, and it doesn’t irritate my eyes and stays put all day with is a great bonus.

Finally, the Gentle Touch Makeup Remover is a dual-phase makeup remover that you shake before use, and then apply to a cotton ball before removing your makeup. It claims to easily remove even waterproof mascara quickly and gently, as well as reduce puffiness! I did find that it was struggling a little removing a waterproof mascara, and that I had to go over it a few times for my lashes to be completely clean, but in saying that, it easily and in just one swipe removed the Illicit Lash Maximum Impact Mascara and the Brow-Defining Duo. I am also not really sure about it reducing puffiness around the eyes, but I also don’t really expect a makeup remover to be able to do so, rather something I’d expect from an eye cream! However all in all, I do like this makeup remover. It is quite gentle, and doesn’t irritate or sting in my eyes, and doesn’t leave my eye area feeling greasy or sticky.

All in all I am enjoying these products from Paula’s Choice. They are all of a high quality and at the same time very reasonably priced. The standout product for me is definitely the Brow-Defining Duo, which I am really enjoying, although in saying that, I do enjoy the other products as well. So I certainly wouldn’t mind adding a few more makeup products to my collection, and particularly love the look of the Blush Palette and the Nude Eyeshadow Palette…

Have you ever tried any of the products from Paula’s Choice? Any recommendations?

* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |