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13 March 2019

PRODUCT REVIEW: NATIO LAUNCHES THE SUN-KISSED PREP, SET AND GLOW COLLECTION



One of those home-grown Aussie brands that I really love, is Natio. Their products are always so gorgeous, and I love how they are not tested on animals and always contain skin loving and nourishing ingredients such as jojoba, Shea, Vitamin E, Chamomile and Green Tea offer natural nourishment and care. And the makeup products are always so easy to wear, with their earthy shades that embrace the skin’s natural tones and textures making them perfect for everyday wear.

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24 August 2017

PRODUCT REVIEW: RIMMEL LONDON # INSTA SELFIE COLLECTION

A drugstore makeup brand that has really hit the mark lately is Rimmel London, with products that are always very budget friendly, but also high quality and right on trend, and the newest releases to hit the Australian shelves are no exception, a collection designed to get you selfie-ready in an instant.. 

Let's start with the Rimmel London #Insta Conceal & Correct Palette, which is a nifty little palette that contains three creamy shades that addresses the different skin tones and imperfections you want to conceal for a more flawless complexion. The kit includes these shades;

  • Peach - that helps neutralizes dark circles and illuminates face features 
  • Green - that covers redness and blemishes on the skin 
  • Lilac - that evens out yellowish undertones and corrects dull and sallow skin 

The shades are to be applied to the skin prior to foundation where needed, or as shown on the image on the back of the compact. It can be applied with a concealing brush, though personally I prefer to use my fingers!! All shades are quite creamy, and have added Vitamin E, Aloe and Chamomile, and I have to say that I am quite impressed, and use particularly the green for blemishes and the peach shade for my under eye circles, and do like the result. It can be a little tricky to blend evenly, but again, I find that it is easiest with my fingers perhaps as the warmth from my fingers makes it easier to blend and perhaps that way more natural looking being.

Then there's the Rimmel London #Insta Conceal & Contour Palette, which is a similar looking palette to the above, also containing three creamy shades, only these are designed to help cover up and conceal imperfections and accentuating features by sculpting some angles and camouflaging different on your face. The kit contains;

  • Highligher 
  • Concealer 
  • Countour 

It is best used on top of your foundation where needed, or as on the graphic shown on the back of the palette.

Its available in three shades, light, medium and dark so there should be a match for most skin tones. I have a medium beige skin tone, and I tried the medium shade, which will be ok come summer and I have a little more colour in my face, but at the moment it is a tad dark for my winter pale skin.

The first shade is the highlighter which is a champagne shade that helps illuminate and brighten the face for a subtle dewy glow on your cheeks, brow bone, cupids bow etc. It is quite subtle, but can be built up slightly, and I find it easiest to apply using my fingers.

The concealer is great for covering small blemishes, and other areas of concern such as redness and pigmentation, and here I actually find that using a small concealer brush gives the best result, as you can dab it on lightly until you've got the coverage you want. It lasts well on the skin throughout the day.

Finally, there's the contouring shade which helps define and sculpt your face for either a naturel definition of a more chiselled look if you build up the product slowly. It is easy to apply, but I do find the chocolate shade a tad too dark for my skin at the moment, so haven't been experimenting with it enough to cast a final verdict.

Then there's the #InstaFlawless Perfecting, Radiant Skin Tint, which is actually a product that was launched last year. But this is a multi-functional product that has several functions including primer, tinted moisturiser while offering SPF protection.

It helps prime and perfect the skin, erases signs of fatigue, making the skin tone look more even and brighter while giving it a natural-looking radiant glow, and moisturises the skin for 24 hour

It has a very light and thin formula and it absorbs quickly and easily into the skin, with a nice dewy finish, and a light coverage, yet surprisingly it does manage to minimise the look of my pigmentation and even out my skin tone and give my skin a nice healthy glow, but I still need a concealer to cover and hide more prominent marks (but I usually always do with tinted moisturisers). It can be used both on its own, or it can also be used underneath your usual foundation, but I must admit to only having used it on its own.

The tint claims to after just seven day's wear, leave the skin more even and with a radiant glow, but I have to say that I have not noticed any permanent change to the look of my skin, apart from when I'm actually wearing the tint. 


The tint works well on my combination skin, but the usual shiny t-zone does appear by the afternoon, so a touch up is required. Regardless, I do enjoy using this #InstaFlawless Perfecting, Radiant Skin Tint, as a tinted moisturiser on those days I am just after a quick and simple casual look. 


Next up is the Rimmel London #Insta Fix & Matte Powder, which is a superfine white translucent powder that helps set and fix the foundation to make it more even, while also controlling shine and diminishing oil product - and having combination skin always prone to shine especially on my nose and rest of the t-zone by mid-day, I really like this powder. It is so lightweight and literally invisible, and makes my skin look lovely and matte, while not making my makeup look dry or cakey. Even after touch ups during the day. It comes in a round clear compact, and has embossed hashag symbols in perfect keeping with the insta theme for a perfect selfie, and it really is the most stunning design.

Finally, there's the Rimmel #Insta Fix & Go 2 in 1 Primer & Setting Spray, which is a great multi-tasking products, that doubles as both a primer and a setting spray, plus you can use it to refresh the skin throughout the day too. The primer is oil-free, which is great when you've got combination skin like me, so no need to worry that it will make your skin look greasy throughout the day.

It is so easy to apply, you simply spritz over the face and wait a few moments before applying your makeup, and then once done, spray again to set it. So much quicker than a cream or gel based primer. The Insta Fix & Go promises to help prolong the wear of makeup making it look nicer for longer, and it really does stop that dreaded afternoon shine. And at the same time, it feels lovely and revitalising on the skin thanks to the added cucumber extract, which also makes it smell so fresh and summery and absolutely divine. As I am always struggling with makeup going shiny halfway through the day, I am really enjoying this spray, so I can easily see this one becoming a stable in my makeup cabinet.


Rimmel London #Insta Conceal & Correct Palette - RRP: $18.95 / 8.4g
Rimmel London #Insta Conceal & Contour Palette - RRP: $18.95 / 8.4g
Rimmel London #InstaFlawless Perfecting, Radiant Skin Tint - RRP: $13.95 / 30ml
Rimmel London #Insta Fix & Matte Powder - RRP: $13.95 / 8g
Rimmel London #Insta Fix & Go 2 in 1 Primer & Setting Spray - RRP: $13.95 / 100ml

Available from Priceline, Chemist Warehouse, 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.


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21 July 2017

PRODUCT REVIEW: MILANI BLUSH, BRONZER, AND SETTING SPRAY FROM THE BEAUTY DRAWERS

One of those brands there has been so much hype about amongst beauty editors and bloggers, is Milani Cosmetics, and in particular about their blushes, though lately more of their different products are also getting a lot of mentions. I am not sure why I have never actually gotten around to trying their products, until I was so lucky to get a few sent to me thanks to being a brand ambassador for the new online store The Beauty Drawers.


Lets start with the Milani Cosmetics Baked Blush. These blushes are made from being baked in the sun, on terracotta tiles in Italy, which does give them an added charm. At the Beauty Drawers, they are available in a massive 11 shades, and I put three of those to the test;

  • Dolce Pink - The palest of the three, a beautiful hot pink that has been swirled together with a lighter pink shade, along with golden shimmery particles
  • Corallina - A darker, coral pinky-red shade, swirled together with a pale pearlescent shade, again with shimmery particles
  • Red Vino - The darkest of the three, a burgundy-red wine shade with swirled together with a golden shade, and again with the shimmer

As promised these blushes are insanely pigmented so you can build them up to be very intense and vibrant, and you have to be cautious that you don't apply too much. A little seriously goes a long way, and the tiniest bit is sufficient for a sheer yet glowing and radiant look.

The blushes come in little round golden pots with a clear lid, and underneath the blush you'll find a tiny brush and also a mirror. The little brush is as such soft enough, but personally I prefer to use my own larger and softer brushes, also as I find you'll get a better and more blended result. But if you do tend to apply makeup on the go, the included brush and mirror is certainly a great touch.

The three shades I tried are all gorgeous their own right, but if I had to pick a favourite, it would probably be Corallina, followed by Dolce Pink. I do also like Red Vino, but the darker shade means that I think it will suit pale my skin tone a little better during summer when I have a slight tan.

At the low price of just $15.95, these blushes are seriously a great buy, and I already know that I’ll need to get my hands on a few more shades from the range.

Next up is the Milani Cosmetics Rose Powder Blush. This is seriously the most stunning blush you ever did see with its embossed rose, so no wonder you'll find more pictures of this one all over Instagram. This Rose blush is available in three gorgeous shades from The Beauty Drawers and I put the shade Romantic Rose to the test, which is a matte nude dusty rose shade. And this shade is the best shade for those with pale skin, giving you a beautiful and very natural blushed cheek. Perfect for everyday makeup, or a barely there look, also because it applies with just a very subtle sheen. Absolutely stunning. And as with the baked blushes, this one is also quite pigmented, so you have the choice if you want to apply just a sheer wash of colour, or have a more intense look.

The blush comes in a golden compact with a clear lid, so you can see and admire the beautiful embossing - and unlike the Baked Blush, this one doesn't come with a brush or mirror included, which does make the packing slightly more slimline and stylish, and again, I actually personally prefer this and leave the little brush out.

The blush is seriously stunning, both to look at and to use, that again, I think I'll need more of these in my life. And yet again, considering the high quality, it comes at a bargain price of just $17.95, also because it holds a massive 17g, which is a lot of a blush!

Then there's the Milani Cosmetics Baked Bronzer, which is also baked on Italian terracotta tiles. It is available in three shades, and I put the shade, Dolce to the test, which I believe is the darkest shade. However, even it is still perfect for my medium beige skin, and the bronzer swirled with shimmer, gives a lovely natural glowing finish. I am not usually a huge fan of shimmery bronzers as I feel they often end up being too shimmery and glittery, plus makes my combination skin look even greasier, but this one only has the tiniest amount of shimmer, giving the skin a lovely radiant and healthy sheen. It comes in a round compact, with the included small brush and mirror underneath the actual bronzer, and again, I much prefer, and feel I get a much better and more natural and even finish if I apply with a larger and softer powder brush, that said, it is certainly a great inclusion if you tend to apply makeup on the go.

Finally, there's the Milani 
Cosmetics Make it Dewy Setting Spray, which is the ultimate 3-in-1 product that will hydrate, illuminate and set. It spray can be used both under makeup for a moisture boost, as well as on top to set the makeup and make it last up to 16 hours without creasing, smudging or fading, even my combination skin. It also gives the skin a lovely radiant healthy glow. The spray applies in a super fine mist and has a lovely cooling and refreshing feeling on the skin, so you can also use it throughout the day to freshen up. It has the most beautiful fresh fruity scent, thanks to containing extracts from among others water melon. Another must try from the brand. 

So there you have it. I am honestly not sure why I have not gotten around to trying anything from Milani 
Cosmetics before, as these products are seriously amazing. The quality is so high considering their very affordable prices. I know I'll be reaching for these products again and again, and now even more keen than ever trying even more products from the brand. I highly recommend that you try them too!


Milani Cosmetics Baked Blush - RRP: $15.95 / 3.5g
Milani 
Cosmetics Rose Blush - RRP: $17.95 / 17g
Milani Cosmetics Baked Bronzer - RRP: $16.95 / 7g
Milani Cosmetics Make it Dewy Setting Spray - RRP: $22.95 / 60ml


Available from the Available from The Beauty Drawers 


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


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10 November 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: JANE IREDALE STARTER KIT FROM RY

Continuing with the Xmas gift ideas, today I've got an absolute winner from Jane Iredale, which is available from the online store RY - The Starter Kit, which contain a selection of the perfect products to get you hooked to Jane Iredale. I am already hooked on Jane Iredale, so if you've missed my reviews, you can find them via my product directory.




Anyway, this Jane Iredale Starter Kit really is the perfect way of getting to know the brand, and it would be the perfect Xmas gift idea too.

If you're not familiar with Jane Iredale, the brand makes mineral makeup, which are multi-functional and which have skincare benefits all while they look good.

The kit comes in a couple of different skin tones, including light and medium (which I've tested), and it contains:

  • Smooth Affair, 7ml
  • Golden Glow PurePressed Base SPF20, 2.8g
  • Golden Glow Amazing Base SPF20, 1.7g
  • Pommisst, 15ml
  • Mini Powder Brush
  • Travel sized cosmetic case with an large mirror

The Smooth Affair is a primer and skin brightener, which has anti-ageing properties that increase luminosity, even skin tone, and minimise the appearance of pores. It contains a whole host of natural ingredients including apple and grapefruit extract to maintain the skin's elasticity and promote luminosity and radiance, aloe leaf juice to soothe and calm the skin, green and white tea leaf Extracts, Royal Jelly and algae extract, for their anti-ageing and anti-inflammatory benefits, olive Leaf Extract to promote epidermal cell renewal, and honeysuckle extract to help purify the skin.

The Smooth Affair is used after your usual moisturiser, and it just takes a tiny amount to cover your whole face, so even this tiny tube will last you a while. It has a beautiful scent and absorbs quickly into the skin, and afterwards makeup seems to glide onto the skin even easier. I also find that it takes less foundation to make my skin look even, which in itself results in a more natural and nicer look too. On my combination skin, my makeup also lasts longer without the need for touch ups. I love how this primer makes my skin feel and look, and I love that it is not only more natural but also cares for the skin while I wear it, so I will definitely be purchasing a full sized when I run out.




Then I follow with the Amazing Base SPF20. I actually already own a full sized one of these, which I'm using in the refillable Jane Iredale brush, and I'm loving it, and have already got a backup - and I generally use it as a finishing powder for a little extra coverage where needed, and actually usually have the refillable brush with me when I'm out as its perfect for touch ups to ! This is a powder foundation made from micronised minerals, and it is a bit of a multi-tasker as it can be used both wet and dry as a concealer, foundation, powder and sunscreen all in one, and because it contains algae extract, it also helps reduce inflammation, soothe sensitive skin, and rebuild the skin's lipid film barrier. The powder goes on fine, but can easily be build up, and cover blemishes, redness and pigmentation, and it gives a nice radiant healthy look.

Alternatively there's the PurePressed Base SPF20, which offers a more sheer, as well as a semi-matte look, so in some ways this pressed powder is fantastic for combination or oilier skin types. Like Amazing Base, it is also made from micronized minerals and contains algae extract, as well as pine bark and pomegranate extract, which soothes sensitive skin and helps prevent moisture loss. The power is extremely light, almost weightless on the skin, and again, it can be built up for more coverage. But personally I prefer to use it as a finishing powder as it gives such a nice velvety matte finish.

To finish off, there's the Pommisst, - and again I already got a full sized bottle of these which I am also so in love with. This fruity scented spray is a hydration spay that has added pomegranate extract, which gives the skin a dose of anti-ageing botanicals and antioxidants to protect the skin from UV rays. This spay helps set you foundation and give it a dewy look, and can of course also be used throughout the day to freshen up the skin or add a boost of moisture.

The kit also comes with a Mini Powder Brush which is made from hand-tied goat hair, and is so incredibly soft. It is perfect for applying both the amazing base and of course also the Pure Pressed base as well.

And everything comes packaged in a gorgeous silver cosmetic case with a large mirror.

This truly is a great starter set, and is such a good way of trying out some products, which are all incredible, and you're sure to fall in love with immediately.


Jane Iredale Starter Kit - RRP: $69.70

Available from RY

* Some products may have been kindly provided for editorial consideration, and have been reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy, and reviews are 100% honest and based on personal opinion and experience. Note that The Beauty & Lifestyle Hunter is not a professional or expert, so please do not substitute these opinions as professional advice. Also note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means you pay no extra, but I get a small commission fee if you click through and buy something. And if so, thank you much for your supporting the running costs of my blog. xx


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11 July 2016

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.

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6 July 2016

MAYBELLINE NEW YORK PRODUCT LAUNCHES JULY TO DECEMBER 2016

Two weeks ago I was so lucky to go to a Maybelline Blogger event launching all the new product launches for the second half of 2016. Everyone left the event with a huge goodie bag with most of the new products, which was very generous of Maybelline, so a huge thank you! Below is a quick run-down of all the new products.. and make sure you get a cuppa before you settle down to have a read, as there are a massive 12 new products to run through, so while I'll do my best to keep it short, it is inevitably going to be a long one..

 

For the face, Maybelline is launching the Dream Velvet Soft-Matte Hydrating Foundation, which is a foundation suitable for those with combination and oilier skin types, offering a velvety matte look for up to 12 hours, so right up my alley with my combination skin always struggling to get my foundation to stay matte past lunch time. It has gel-whipped formula containing more water than usual, so unlike other mate foundations that often leave the skin looking dry, this one is a hydrating formula making if feel very comfortable on the skin too. It's available in 10 shades. 

Then there's the Master Conceal Camouflaging Concealer, which offering full coverage, easily hiding anything from dark circles under the eyes, redness and pigmentation, yet while still looking natural and not caked on, thank to being so easy to blend. It comes in a small tube with a tiny nozzle that makes it easy to squeeze out just the amount needed, and you can then pat it onto the skin and blend it until you get the coverage you want, using either your fingertip or a brush. The concealer is available in five shades, and the Maybelline also suggested trying using the lightest and the darkest shades to contour, which I have to admit that I am yet to try. 
 


With my combination skin, I am so used to my makeup getting shiny, fading and settling into lines, so I am also very excited about the Maybelline’s Master Fix by Face Studio. The Master Fix is a translucent, lightweight mist that helps to fix and extend the wear of your makeup, preventing it from fading, settling or getting shiny. When finished applying your makeup, you simply shake the bottle, close your eyes and spray a couple of times, concentrating, naturally, at the more greasy areas such as the t-zone. The mist is so light, that you wouldn't even know you're wearing it, although the light spray does feel nice and refreshing when you apply it.




Thanks to Kim K, contouring is all the rage at the moment, and all brands from luxe all the way down to drugstore, seem to be launching contouring kits, including now Maybelline with the Master Contour Palette. This Contour Palette includes a highlighter, blush and contouring powder, as well as an angled brush, and thereby makes it easy to define and highlight your preferred features. It even comes with easy to follow instructions and images on the back of the palette, so if you're a novice at contouring like me, there's help to be found. The palette is available in two shade combinations, Light to Medium, and Medium to Dark. 




Next is the Color Sensational Blushed Nudes Eyeshadow Palette, which is a palette containing 12 nude and rosy shades ranging from pale pink and peach, nude, mauve, dusty rose, apricot, chocolate and plum. The shades are either a matte formula or enriched with rose gold pigments giving them a beautiful shimmer. The pigmentation could be a tad better, but for someone like me, not really liking anything too intense, they are perfect, and can certainly be build up to still be quite bold, and longevity is also decent, especially when used in combination with a primer. As always, shades can be used individually, or in combination - and actually, Maybelline has made the palette foolproof, by making suggestions on the back of the palette how they shades can be used for a combination of looks, using either 2, 3 or 4 shades at a time, for a total of 13 different looks which you can also see swatches and tutorials of on their website. 





The Maybelline Volum' Express Falsies Push Up Drama Mascara promises 'dramatic lift and massive volume' - by helping to thicken and give the lashes volume, and thanks to the unique curved push-up brush that scoops the lashes from roots to tips, it also plumps and lifts the lashes, which holds throughout the day, thanks to the added styling wax. At first use I did find that it was a little clumping, but then again, I mostly find that is the case with new mascaras, and you have to use them a few times before they stop over-applying, and apply just the amount of mascara needed to avoid the clumping. With a name like Express Falsies, it does imply that you can skip applying false lashes when using this mascara, and while I am the first to admit that I never use false lashes, I wouldn't quite say that it manages to do that. However, that said, a few coats and it certainly gives my lashes a decent amount of volume, thickness and lift, so I will enjoy using this mascara. And besides how cute is the pink and red packaging!!

 


Also for the eyes, is the Maybelline Lasting Drama Gel 24H Automatic Pencil, a gel in a pencil format, that provides intense colour and a precise and smudge proof crisp line that stay put for 24hours thanks to its waterproof, not that I could ever imagine wearing makeup for that long, as it would essentially mean wearing it to bed, and that's just a huge no-no for me. And this eyeliner is really super soft and so easy to apply, and really also does stay put throughout the day as promised. I can also see this one becoming a staple in my collection as with my sensitive and often watery eyes, I am always struggling to get my eyeliner to stay put. It is only available in Beyond Black, and I would love if there was also a very dark brown version available. 



 

Brows are still one of the key trends, and to match, Maybelline is launching the Brow Drama Pomade Crayon, which is essentially a chubby stick/crayon that helps sculpt, tame and colour brows. You simply draw over your brows with feathery strokes to fil in sparse areas. It's super easy, and the result is natural, so this one is sure to become one of my favourites too. It is available in three shades, Dark Blonde, Medium Brown and Dark Brown. 


 
Moving on to the lips, Maybelline is adding to the ever popular Baby Lips with the introduction of the Baby Lips Balm & Blush, which as the name suggests adds a hint of tint, a sheer natural flush of colour to both lips and lips. They come packaged in cute little pots with coloured lids, but unfortunately a little bulky in the handbag. They have been enriched with antioxidant rich vitamin E to add moisture to lips and cheeks. The round balm is easy to apply to either lips or cheeks, and once dry, the leave a nice sheen too, without being greasy or sticky. There are four shades available;
  • Innocent Peach
  • Shimmering Bronze
  • Flirty Pink
  • Juicy Rose
  •  
     
Of these I prefer the two darker shades, the Flirty Pink and the Juicy Rose, as they, while still going on sheer, still apply the darkest. For me, these will be its something that I'd wear on no-makeup days, otherwise preferring more intense lipsticks to tints, but if I had been younger, I can easily see myself wanting to get hold of every shade available, so I can also imagine that these will be a big hit with younger teenage girls.
 
 
Maybelline is also launching a new limited edition range in the Color Sensational line, the Color Sensational Blushed Nudes Lipsticks, which are enriched with pure precious oil to make then feel rich and creamy on the lips. The shades all have a nice golden sheen due to containing rose gold pigments to create a warm blushed look on the lips. The range includes six shades; 
 
  • Fairly Bare (107)
  • Tip Top Tulle (117)
  • Sunset Blush (137)
  • More to Adore (157)
  • Pink Fling (207)
  • Lust Affair (407)
 
 
 
 
I'm not particularly fond of very pale shades, so my favourites are Sunset Blush which has a slightly coral tinge, More to Adore with its mid-pink shade, Pink Fling with a dusty rose/mauve shade, and in particular the darkest shade Lust Affair with its pinky-red fuchsia shade.
 
 
 
Another new lip stick launch is the Maybelline Color Sensational Vivid Matte Liquid, which is probably what has most girls excited with its intense pigment and matte look. These liquid lipsticks have a really good colour payoff, and unlike most other matte look lipsticks, they surprisingly still feels lovely and moisturising on the lips. No more flaky dry, and uncomfortably feeling lips. The range is available in 8 shades;
  • Nude Flush (05)
  • Electric Pink (15)
  • Orange Shot (25)
  • Fuchsia Ecstasy (30)
  • Rebel Red (35)
  • Berry Boost (40)
  • Possessed Plum (45)
  • Nude Thrill (50)
 
 
 
Again, I am not particularly good with nudes, so unfortunately Nude Thrill is not right for me, and Electric Pink is a little too fluoro pink, reminding me too much of the 80s, so not a match for me either - but other than that, I am surprised to say that I really love all the other shades. If I had to pick favourites, you just cannot go wrong with a classic red such as the Rebel Red, and the I really love the orangy-red Orange Shot, but again, the remainder of the shades are sure to get some good outings too.
 
 
Finally, Maybelline is also adding a few new limited edition shades to Color Show Blushed Nudes Nail Polish, which includes; 
  • Make Me Blush
  • Dusty Rose
  • Mod Mauve
  • Crimson Flush
 
 
 
Of these I particularly love the dusty fuchsias shade, Crimson Flush and the dusty mid-brown shade, Mod Mauve. The other two shades are lovely too, but I think i will love them more come spring and summer. These nail polishes are easy to apply evenly and streak-free thanks to the short wide brush. It does require two coats for a solid colour pay-off, but that's pretty normal, and they have a good wear of a few days, which as always can easily be extended by a few days by using a base and top coat.
So there you go, all the new releases from Maybelline launching from now and the rest of the year. Some of them have already hit the stores, and others will be arriving over the coming months, so make sure to keep your eyes peeled.


Maybelline Dream Velvet Soft-Matte Hydrating Foundation - RRP: $22.95
Maybelline Master Conceal Camouflaging Concealer - RRP: $17.95
Maybelline Master Fix Wear Boosting Setting Spray - RRP: $15.95
Maybelline Master Contour Face Contouring Kit - RRP: $19.95
Maybelline Color Sensational Blushed Nudes Eye Palette - RRP: $25.95
Maybelline Volum' Express Falsies Push Up Drama Mascara - RRP: $14.95
Maybelline Lasting Drama Gel 24H Automatic Pencil - RRP: $16.95
Maybelline Brow Drama Pomade Crayon RRP: $21.95
Maybelline Color Sensational Blushed Nudes Lipsticks - RRP: $17.95
Maybelline Baby Lips Balm & Blush - RRP: $9.95
Maybelline Color Sensational Vivid Matte Liquid - RRP: $17.95
Maybelline Color Show Blushed Nudes Nail Polish - RRP: $5.95

Maybelline New York is available from Priceline, variety stores and select pharmacies and supermarkets
* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

 
 
 


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30 May 2014

PRODUCT REVIEW: COLORESCIENCE MINERAL MAKEUP

I have no idea what has taken me so long…I have always been told that mineral makeup is the best for troubled skin prone to breakouts, yet, I have no idea why, when I have always had skin that is breaking out like temperamental teenage skin, I did not try this out earlier.. And today I’d like to share with you my thoughts on the *Colorescience Primer, Pressed Foundation, Setting Mist and Sunforgettable;

 





What They Say:

Colorescience Primers Skin Brightening Line Tamer – Colorescience Face Primers are the first step to improve the colour and texture of the skin. Face Primers target skin types and skin concerns to help improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and the overall texture and tone in one simple step.

RRP: $72.60 (30ml)


Colorescience Pressed Foundation is formulated to provide customisable coverage and colour, this light-weight, highly pigmented pressed foundations disguise imperfections, enhance features and evens the appearance of overall skin tone.

RRP: $72.60 (12g)


Colorescience Hydrating Setting Mist: Keep make-up in place all day and activate the vibrancy of minerals for an ultra-natural, luminous look.

RRP: $57.20 (118ml)


Colorescience Sunforgettable Mineral Powder SPF15: Achieve the ultimate protection from sun damage and ageing effects with a soft focus finish. Sunforgettable mineral sunscreens are easy to apply and re-apply throughout the day to keep your skin protected and beautiful.

RRP: $96.80 (6g)

 
Available from Time Out Beauty or call 1800 648 851 for your nearest stockist



What I Say:

Ever heard of Colorescience before? I hadn’t either! Colorescience is not just a premium mineral makeup rage that gives you skin a flawless even skintone, it also doubles as a skincare range using powerful ingredients such as peptides, liquid crystals, pearl powder, hyaluronic and salicylic acid to help treat and manage common skin concerns such as ageing, pigmentation and problem skin – while you wear the makeup. So you don’t just get the benefit of instantly nicer looking skin, the benefits are cumulative as you wear it! It is literally skincare with built-in makeup, how cool is that. And what’s great too, is that the products are free from harsh chemicals, dyes, talc, alcohol, mineral oil and fragrance, so they are suitable for even the most sensitive skin types too!


To maximise the benefits of Colorescience and to achieve optimum results, Colorescience has devised a four step regimen called the ‘Core 4’ which features essential layers to prime, correct, set and protect, and with the ability to mix and match products specific for your skin needs and concerns, Colorescience Core 4 work together to nurture, camouflage and protect the skin. 

 
 
 

The first step is applying the Colorescience Skin Brightening Line Tamer Primer, which helps to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles & overall texture and tone, so perfect for my skin with beginning lines, uneven skin texture and pigmentation.





The primer has a slight beigey-yellow tint which instantly makes my skin tone look so much nicer and more even, giving it a nice glow, while giving it a dewy finish. It is easy to spread onto the skin, and it absorbs quickly so you are ready to apply your makeup, although you can also use it on its own.


The next step is to apply the foundation, in this case the Colorescience Pressed Foundation in the shade A Taste of Honey.





Having sadly suffered from acne when I was younger with the result that I am not left with some scarring and marks, and add to that increasing pigmentation, means that I generally prefer a minimum of a medium covering foundation, And this foundation ticks all boxes. It so light-weight, but as it is also so pigmented it that it is easy to build up coverage so you can hide any blemishes and pigmentation, and without it looking thick or cakey.




The included sponge makes it easy to apply, and you easily can apply just a little or add another layer or two where you need it. And my skin is left looking so nice and even, and with a natural finish too.


I then follow with a spritz of the Colorescience Hydrating Mist.





This hydrating setting mist that not only sets the makeup and activates the minerals for a more luminous look, it also keeps the makeup in place so it is less transferable – all while serum ingredients add hydration to the skin.




And this mist is also perfect to use throughout the day to revitalise the makeup look, and refreshen the skin, so perfect both during summer when your skin is exposed to air conditioners, and in winter too when you’ve got the heater going.


The final step is a sweep of the Colorescience Sunforgettable SPF 15, which is a lightweight mineral powder that contains broad spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection.




This powder is so fine and light weight, and applies sheer, so it is perfect to use for touch-ups on the go, also because it comes in a self-dispensing retractable powder brush. I did have a few issues getting the powder ‘flowing’ for the first time, but with a bit of tapping if was finally coming through, and now I love it, and it is just perfect for keeping shine at bay, while not clogging up my pores or make my makeup look cakey. And love that it contains SPF15, as even in winter, it is so important to stay sun smart! 




Overall, these products from Colorescience are nothing short of amazing, and I love how they give my skin such a nice even appearance and with a natural healthy glow too, and although I have combination skin prone to the afternoon shine, they do stay put all day without fading, changing colour, or settling into fine lines. And what’s even better is that the products care and treat my skin as I wear them. What’s not to love!

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

Have you ever heard of Colorescience? Do you use mineral makeup?

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