Bourjois Volume Reveal Mascara Review

Well it’s safe to say I have finally found my favorite mascara of all time. This is without a doubt the best mascara I have ever used and I have repurchased it non-stop for the past 2 years which says a lot about it since I really like trying out new mascaras. Say hello to the Bourjois Volume Reveal Mascara in Radiant Black.

 

Over the past years, Bourjois has slowly but surely made its way to become my favorite drugstore brand and this mascara is the one product that first stole my heart. This product does everything I want from a mascara: it gives great length, holds a curl, separate the lashes and adds volume. I had never been a fan of wands with spiky plastic bristles (I preferred the traditional fiber ones) but this one gives me maximum definition, with all the added benefits stated above, without ever poking my eyes. The tube also comes with a magnifying mirror on the side which allows you to really apply the mascara evenly and to closely see your eyes from every angle. This is an added bonus in my opinion (I would still love the product without it) but it has truly made applying mascara easier.

The radiant black color is a nice deep black and I like that it’s not a pain to remove. It comes of really easily with a cleansing oil and it doesn’t leave you with raccoon eyes while you’re removing it. I also found it to be super long lasting, it never smudged or flaked on me despite not being waterproof (though Bourjois makes a waterproof version). This is all great because my lashes have never looked better, I love that results last all day and that I don’t have to mentally prep for battle before removing it.

The Bourjois Volume Reveal Mascara is a must-have for me and I cannot recommend it enough. The results are amazing and I love that it’s super affordable, plus Bourjois is often on offers like 3 for 2 or has great gift with purchase. You can find it in both Boots and Superdrug in the U.K. as well as on Feelunique and Lookfantastic for international delivery.

Dior Addict Lip Maximizer Review

I’m really happy lip glosses are making a comeback because they have always been one of my favorite makeup items. With so many colors and formulas on the market picking the perfect one can be difficult, which is why I thought it would be a good idea to talk about the perfect classic lip gloss: the Dior Addict LipMaximizer.

I have been fortunate enough to gather many samples of it over the years so I haven’t had to buy the full size one, but I definitely plan on doing so before Christmas. This lip gloss is the perfect staple to keep in your makeup bag, it gives great shine but isn’t gloopy or sticky. The texture is on the thicker side but it just feels cushiony on the lip, making them look plumper. I think this is where the maximizer term comes from because there is no unpleasant tingling sensation upon application. It contains collagen and hyaluronic fillers that will make your lips smoother according to the brand.

The gloss itself has a very light pink tint but it doesn’t alter the color of other lip products you might use under it. I quite like it on its own as well because it enhances my natural lip color, which is always nice. Now I know this technically shouldn’t matter since the actual product is great, but I love the Dior packaging on both the mini and the full size versions. It looks chic and luxurious which is really nice for such a classic item. I think this is the perfect product if you are looking to give lip gloss another chance or simply if you want a good quality product to use daily that will not let you down.

The Dior AddictLip Maximizer is available at all Dior counters as well as online from Dior and websites like Feelunique.  

Innisfree Ampoule Intense Cushion SPF34/PA++ in no.13 Light Beige Review

Cushion foundations have been all the rage in Korea for a few years and even though they looked really fun, I never gave in to the urge of buying one. Buying foundations online is always a gamble, but when you have super fair skin, nine times out of ten you can expect the lightest shade to be too dark. So I indulged on skincare and lip tints instead (nothing wrong with that ;) However Innisfree once again sucked me in and I couldn’t resist their Ampoule Intense CushionSPF34/PA++ when it went on sale months ago.

So how did I get on? Well this particular cushion claims to be super moisturizing and is infused with oil to give you a glow. It also has SPF34/PA++ which is great added protection for a base product (you should still use a separate sunscreen) and the packaging makes it perfect for touching up during the day since most of us rarely reapply sunscreen (guilty!).

Innisfree is not kidding when it says it’s moisturizing, it feels very moist on the skin. I wasn’t sure what to expect with the oil it contains (don’t worry it didn’t break me out), the foundation doesn’t move around but it doesn’t look like it’s set either. The glow factor is very high, bordering on shiny for my combination skin, you really get that extreme Korean dewiness with this cushion. I think those with dry skin looking for that dewy glow will enjoy it and it can work on those with combination during colder months (or maybe if you live in a very dry environment). I have tried it last summer and it looked quite shiny, though a bit of powder did tone it down slightly. While it is long-lasting for such a glowy product, it did oxidise a bit on me. I don’t think it would necessarily make a huge difference on others, but it was quite noticeable on my fair skin (my neck is super pale). The coverage is a nice medium that is buildable. It will even out the skin, cover redness and minor imperfections, but you will need a concealer to cover spots. That being said I loved how this looked like skin when you have it on, in a weird way it lets your skin show through but still manages to even it nicely.

The shade range is small, only 3, and they are all on the lighter side. I purchased the lightest one which no.13 light beige and it was a tad dark for me, requiring me to really take it down my neck. It would be a good color match for me in the summer if I was using a self-tanner. I highly recommend you have a look at swatches online if you can’t see it in store. Very fair or darker skin will probably have a hard time finding a perfect match.

Packaging-wise, the case is actually quite sturdy with a nice mirror and I loved how the cushion is packed with product and you can easily flip the sponge when one side gets a bit dry. Another thing I love is that these are refillable and the refills are quite affordable which is nicer than having to buy a whole new compact every time. The cushion also comes with a puff so you can gently pat the product on. I’m not a fan of sponges generally, but this one is amazing!! The puff really blends the foundation seamlessly and easily, it cuts down the application time in half for me. The one con I have about it is that it’s quite hard to wash, but I don’t really mind because they are super affordable to buy on their own (about 3$). So I would recommend getting an extra one with your purchase just in case.

You can get the Innisfree Ampoule Intense Cushion SPF34/PA++ on their website and it is currently 50% off 

Marc Jacobs Genius Gel Super-Charged Foundation in 10 Ivory Light

Like most I rely on foundation daily to even out my skin and as much as I love how it makes me look, I really don’t like shopping for it. You see the lightest shade in most ranges, high-end or not, usually doesn’t even come close to matching my skin. So whenever I find something that looks light enough I can’t stop the excitement which is what led me to purchase the Marc Jacobs Genius Gel Super-Charged Foundation in 10 Ivory Light.

First let me just say thank you to Marc Jacobs Beauty for offering such a wide range of shades: 15 in total! Now onto the foundation, it promises to be long-wearing and weightless all the while minimizing imperfections with the use of Soft Focus Powder. The coverage is medium to full depending on if you layer it or not, the texture is so light that you can easily add more if you need more coverage. One layer covers most imperfections and really evens out the skin. The texture is very watery, much more liquid than gel, and because it contains a lot of pigment it does cling to dry patches. I would recommend it more for combination to oily skin but it could work on drier skin types too if you prime or moisturize well before application. The finish is satin so it looks very luminous without giving a dewy glow and it is matte enough to last all day on my skin.

The shade 10 Ivory Light is a very fair color and a good match, even though it is a tad pink I can still easily make it work. This foundation is highly photogenic it almost acts as a filter and blurs your skin. However, what impressed me the most is how good it looks in person. I find it gives me flawless skin and I loved using it. Sadly I later discovered it contains silica so I don’t use it every day anymore, BUT I reach for it whenever I know I’ll be taking picture (I used it for my graduation pictures and it looked great) or if I want my skin to look really perfect. This is a great foundation and it is worth the investment in my opinion, especially if you have a hard time finding a good shade match. 

The Marc Jacobs Genius Gel Super-Charged Foundation is available from department stores, Sephora and the Marc Jacobs Beauty website.

Dior Airflash CC Primer

Dior is my biggest luxury weakness, I mean their packaging truly is luxurious and their products usually have great textures so they are fun to apply. I also love Givenchy makeup but for some reason I just cannot resist a little Dior. Today I have a review of the very unique Dior Airflash CC Primer, an innovative spray-on face primer.

This primer contains Photo-Smart Pigments™ and is supposed to even out the skin, color correct, brighten as well as make your foundation easier to apply and last longer. A pretty tall order if you ask me. Well good news is, on my skin at least, it does fulfil most of its promises. The spray is very fine and I can’t feel it on my face, but results are there. While I don’t see much color correcting it leaves my skin looking more luminous (like it’s lit from within) and that brightness does make my skin a bit more even. The effects are not an in your face glow, it is more subtle while also being slightly blurring. The Airflash CC Primer gives my face a lovely satin finish that makes applying foundation over it a dream. The skin feels very soft and smooth with it on. I also noticed my foundation does last longer when I use the primer even though it does not offer a lot of shine/oil control.

Another reason I really enjoy using this is its scent, it just smells amazing! The one down side of this primer for is that it contains silica, I know most people are fine with it but my skin does not agree with it (at least it’s seems to be a common denominator in product that break me out or make my skin bumpy). Because of this I cannot use it every day but it has not stopped me from spraying it on for special occasions or when I want a subtle boost of radiance.

Now I highly recommend testing it out at a Dior counter before purchasing it, because it is expensive and people seem to be quite divided about it. Is this something you need in your life? Probably not, but it is a fun product and I do enjoy using it, so it is worth having a look at if you are looking for something different from your everyday primer. 

The Dior Airflash CC Primer is available at Dior counters, Sephora and Feelunique.

Drugstore Mascara Roundup: Rimmel, Maybelline and L’Oréal

Over the past few months, I have been trying out loads of new drugstore mascaras because I had not really branched out from my favorite Maybelline ones. Today, I thought I’d round up the most recent three and give you mini reviews of each. I’m not one to wax poetic about mascaras (maybe if I find THE ONE) so I think this format might be more useful than doing individual reviews. Let’s get into it shall we?

First we have the Rimmel Wonder’Lash Lift Me Up Mascara, a lovely option for natural looking lashes. It gives nice volume and quite a bit of length for defined lashes that are fluttery. Because the formula is quite wet to begin with, I found it got better with time as it got drier. One thing I have to say however is that it is quite heavily fragranced with a cucumber scent so you might want to think about it if you have very sensitive eyes (I didn’t have a problem with it though). Overall, a really decent offering from Rimmel at a super affordable price. 

Next we have one of the most recent launches, the Maybelline The Falsies Push Up DramaMascara. Sadly I didn’t get on with this one, the formula was very heavy and dry, but at the same time it was also quite goopy and made my lashes clump together. The really short bristles of the brush did not help either so I was left with clumped lashes, no added length or definition. It also really weighed down my lashes, they couldn’t hold a curl. I was very disappointed by The Falsies Push Up Drama (a shame since Maybelline usually makes such great mascaras) and I suggested you go for the The Falsies Flared or the Mega Plush, both are really great.

Lastly I have the L’Oréal Voluminous Million Lashes Mascara, I have been looking at this for years but never picked it up for some reason. Similarly to the Rimmel one, the formula starts off quite wet (typical with L’Oréal mascaras) and it really gets better once it’s dried a little. The brush is great at offering maximum definition and combined with the length-boosting formula, it gives you really great lashes. Even though you won’t get a lot of volume out of this one, it still looks like you have a lot of lashes because of the very defining brush. Another great option from L’Oréal and I might actually try more from the Million Lashes range soon.

I hope you have enjoyed this insight into my most recent mascara buys and have found it helpful. All the products mentioned are available from the drugstore and any store that stocks the brands. 

My 3 Favorite MAC Lip Glosses

I finally did it!!! After months of thinking and putting it off, I finally cleaned my makeup stash and got rid of what was too old to use anymore. This also led to the rediscovery of some old favorites. A few years ago, MAC was all the rage, every YouTuber and blogger used to go crazy for all the limited edition collections. Don’t get me wrong, MAC still does beautiful collections but I think their permanent products deserve some love too. So today I thought I’d share with you my 3 favorite lip glosses from MAC.

The first ever lip product I purchased from MAC was the amazing Venetian Lustreglass. This is a classic red shade that gives you color but it’s still not a full on red lip, perfect for those wanting to get into red lips. The lustreglass formula gives really nice shine to the lips and it’s not as thick or sticky as the Lipglasses. However this gloss is thicker than a lot of other formulas on the market, but that also means it has great lasting-power.

If you prefer something a bit more natural or a great layering color Pinkarat Lustreglass is perfect for you. The color is a gorgeous light pink that’s not too cool-toned and it has a lovely gold pearl and shimmer running through that gives it a little something special. Pinkarat adds great dimension to your lips when worn on its own and because the color is sheer you can wear it on top of lipsticks or stains for a boost of shine.

Lastly I have the Dazzleglass in Smile, a peach color with fuchsia pink shimmer. I had a look online I couldn’t find this specific color (maybe it’s still available in stores?) but they have loads of other colors. They have very interesting combinations of base colors and shimmers that make the gloss really pop on your lips. Dazzleglasses are not very pigmented lip glosses but they offer incredible glass-like shine and the shimmer in them really sparkles. These are quite thick and a bit sticky but they are so long-lasting that they are worth it for the gorgeous shine you get for hours.

MAC has such a great selection of colors and lip gloss formulas that everyone can find something to suit their fancy. Also they are quite reasonably priced for such good quality products. I know MAC packaging is quite basic but it is worth looking past it to discover amazing colors you simply don’t find in other brands. MAC Lustreglasses and Dazzleglasses are available from the MAC website and at any of their counters. 

Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet Lipstick in Grand Cru T08

My love for red lips is well documented on the blog, nothing can brighten your face and make you look as put together as red lipstick or a beautiful stain. Even with the most basic makeup (or no makeup at all) a red lip does it all, just have a look at Miranda Kerr if you don’t believe me. During the colder seasons, I like to amp it up and go for a darker and richer color and finding the perfect formula is crucial to make this look low-maintenance. For me, the perfect product has come in the form of the Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet Lipstick in Grand Cru T08.

Basically this is a super long-lasting liquid lipstick that sets to a gorgeous velvet matte finish. The lasting-power on this is just amazing! You can eat and drink with it on and it still looks perfect hours later. This is so great especially if you are going for a darker color like Grand Cru which you would normally assume is very high-maintenance, but it’s actually the most low-maintenance red I own.

Now for the finish, the Rouge Edition Velvet has a true velvety finish, it is matte but there is a luminosity to it that prevent it from being flat or making your lips look smaller. I don’t find it drying at all, something quite rare for a matte lip product. The lightweight cream applies like a dream and it is so pigmented you only need a thin layer to get full impact. As for the color, it is gorgeous and super chic! A dark rich burgundy color that instantly makes your skin look brighter and it works well on different skin tones. The swatches really don’t do it justice (the color is a lot richer) because it applies much better on the lips than on your hands. If I can only recommend one lip product for this holiday season, the Grand Cru Rouge Edition Velvet Lipstick is it. Bourjois does offer 11 shades in this range if you prefer something more natural or a nice pink. In my opinion this is one of the best and most affordable lip products available on the market. 

You can get the Bourjois Rouge Edition Velvet Lipstick in Grand Cru T08 from Feelunique and any stores that sell Bourjois. 

The Perfect Everyday Blush: Nars Deep Throat

Nars blushes are a cult favorite for a reason, the quality is pretty much unbeatable. The color selection is large and simply picking one can be quite difficult (who wouldn’t want them all). I know Orgasm is the one everyone recommends, but to me Deep Throat is the most perfect blush.

Both shades are actually a similar peachy-pink shade, but Deep Throat is ever so slightly cooler. The biggest difference between the two however is glitter: Orgasm has loads of shimmer and glitter while Deep Throat is glitter-free and only has very fine gold shimmer that creates a beautiful glow on your cheeks. To me, that makes it more wearable for everyday because it looks more natural.

What I love most about this is the color it gives, it creates the most perfect flush. The peachy-pink really brightens up your whole face. It doesn’t look too pink or coral so it works well with cool and warm tones. As for the shimmer, it really lifts your face! This is one of my most worn blushes because it always pulls my entire makeup together. Nars blushes are pricier but this one is definitely worth the investment. 

The Nars Blush in Deep Throat is available from the Nars website, their beauty counters and Sephora. 

Make Up For Ever Smoky Extravagant Mascara

I think fall really lends itself to slightly heavier makeup, from red lips to smokey eyes. I for one am always up for a bold lip but I do enjoy adding more definition to my eyes and while I am not big on heavy eye makeup and eyeliner, I think a great mascara can make all the difference. A favorite of mine is the Make up For ever Smoky Extravagant Mascara.

This mascara really does it all! The cone shaped brush helps you define every lash with the tip and the round base helps add loads of volume for dramatic lashes. I love how the formula gives you lots of length too so you don’t have to compromise anything or combine products. I was also very impressed by how well it holds a curl. Make Up For Ever could not have found a better name for this mascara because it truly has a smoky quality. I don’t know if it’s because the color is intense but my eyes look smokier without having to use liner or darker eyeshadows. I cannot think of a better mascara for definition and drama.

Now don’t worry even though it is smoky and lasts all day, it is not a pain to remove. It actually washes off super easily with a cleansing oil or a micellar water. Another great news (if you get it from Sephora) is that you can purchase a travel size version of the mascara, perfect if you want to give it a try before committing to the full size. I love this because I rarely finish mascaras before they dry out and this way I am always sure I have a fresh product to use.

You can find the Make Up For Ever Smoky Extravagant Mascara from their website and beauty counters as well as in Sephora. 

Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl

Who does not love a good mascara? I personally think the drugstore has loads of great offerings, but like everyone else I feel the appeal of high-end mascaras with their beautiful packaging and compelling ads. That being said I always feel a bit guilty spending a lot on mascara, see my eyes are very sensitive so I can rarely finish a tube and obviously no one likes to throw away something you spent good money on. This is why I love buying minis from Sephora or getting samples from my favorite counters. As you might know, Dior is my favorite luxury brand so I was beyond excited when I received a mini Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara as part of a gift with purchase.

The original Diorshow Iconic is a favorite mascara of mine and I love curved mascara brush, making the Overcurl version a must try on my list. The combination of the brush and formula is supposed to give great volume and really curl your lashes. The formula is on the drier side which I love, it makes applying it to finer lashes super easy and the black color is nicely pigmented. The curved brush really follows the contour of your eyes, so it really helps define them by separating every lash and the application is easy.

Now for the results, I got lots of volume with this and because the formula is drier the volume looks like your lashes are naturally bigger instead of giving you a wet clumpy look. As for the curling power, it does initially lift your lashes but the effect did not last for long on me. By the end of the day the curl had dropped, but the volume was still present and helped keep my eyes defined. I think my lashes might be too fine for the formula, but if you have thicker lashes or can handle slightly heavier mascaras I think you might like this. The volume you get is impressive enough so I would give it a try if the opportunity comes up or if you can get a mini tube.

The Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara is available from any Dior counter, the Dior website,  Sephora and Feelunique. 

L’Oréal Visible Lift Blur Foundation in Light Ivory 201

I have always been a bit reticent when it comes to buying drugstore foundations, not because the formulas don’t look nice, but because finding a shade that is light enough for me is near impossible. However, like any beauty lover, I enjoy trying new products so when I saw that the L’Oréal Visible Lift Blur Foundation was on sale, I let myself be tempted.

This is targeted towards more mature skin as it claims to blur the look of lines and wrinkles with the help of Visible Lift (I took this as meaning it contains the Visible Lift serum but I am not 100% sure). Honestly the main reason I think it is marketed for more mature skin is due to the fact the foundation contains hyaluronic acid which will plump the skin and minimize any dehydration line, plus it also has a very fresh finish.

Now I am still too young to need a wrinkle correcting foundation but I was very intrigued by the texture of this product. In a way it reminds me of the now (sadly) discontinued Magic Smooth Soufflé foundation from L’Oréal as it has a mousse like quality but it is still a liquid foundation and a bit runny. Due to its unique texture, a little goes a very long way and I found the best to apply it is with fingers to really blend it in. This is important because I think it could cling to very dry patches or look patchy if you are not careful, however it does blend quickly granted that you take the time to do it.

Finish wise, it first settles into a slightly matte satin finish that looks lovely and very much like skin. It also has a blurring effect on the skin, making it look quite flawless. Now, remember how I said this looks very fresh? Well, after a few minutes and as the day goes on, it will get dewier and if you if have combination/oily skin, a little shiny. I would advise people with oily skin to skip the Visible Lift Blur Foundation because I doubt it would last through the day. If you have combination skin you can get away with it if you use some powder to set your T-zone and those with normal to dry skin will probably enjoy it.

It comes in 12 shades, which is reasonable, but if you have very fair skin the lightest shade will be too dark. I can get away with it in the summer with the help of some bronzer and if I am using self-tanner, but it looks very orange in the tube. On the skin however, the pigments really sheer out, offering a light medium coverage that evens out the skin and offers a nice sun kissed look.

To be honest with you I have mixed feelings about this one. I do like the finish, but it is not made for combination skin so it can a bit shiny for my liking. I also wished it came in a lighter shade because it will be too dark for me in the winter which would be the best season for this foundation. All in all it is a nice foundation and if you have normal/slightly dry skin and can find a color match I would give it a try. The Visible Blur line also offers blushes that look really cute and I think they might work on a wider range of skin types and colors.

The L’Oréal Visible Lift Blur Foundation can be found in most drugstores and it is also available on their website. 

My Little Beauty Mascara Volume et Soin

Let’s talk lashes! Mascara is one of those beauty products I like to wear even on minimal makeup days. It just helps frame your eyes beautifully and finding the perfect one can really pull your entire face together. Today I am bringing you a review on one of my all-time favorite mascaras, the My Little Beauty Mascara Volume et Soin.

My Little Beauty is a sister company to My Little Box, a beauty and lifestyle subscription box service that I adore. I was first introduced to the mascara in one of their boxes and I love it. It is hands down one of the best mascara I have ever used and I would repurchase it in a heartbeat.

The Mascara Volume et Soin is one of those rare ones that actually gives you tons of volume but does not compromise on length. It also really separates your lashes so there are more defined and it looks like you have incredible doe eyes. I was very impressed by the amount of length it gave me and really nice volume that did not look clumpy. I simply cannot explain how great this makes your lashes look! I was actually really sad when I finished my tube up.

As far as I know the My Little Beauty Mascara Volume et Soin can only be purchased the official website (My Little Corner) and I believe they only deliver within France (it is a French company). Now you might want to email them (they have great customer service) and ask where they ship to as they might have expended since I last checked. If you are lucky enough to be able to buy it, do it, it is a truly remarkable product.

Now here’s to hoping this amazing brand will start offering international shipping on both their products and boxes! 

Innisfree Color Glow Lipstick in Romantic Autumn Rose

I have been in a bit of a makeup rut lately, I don’t know why but I feel like I wear the same things every day and none of my lip products seem appealing. So to mix things up, I have ditched my usual bright berry/red lip in favor of something more peachy and summery. My savior in this situation has been the Innisfree Color Glow Lipstick in Romantic Autumn Rose.

Now I tried an Innisfree lipstick years ago and was not super impressed because it was very waxy and dry. But they have since reformulated and come out with great new lipsticks that seriously deliver. So if you were put off in the past definitely give the new ones a go.

The Color Glow lipsticks are wonderfully creamy and moisturizing, while packing a punch in the color department. They are super pigmented in one swipe. I also like that they look luminous, but don’t have a glossy finish. They feel like a true lipstick texture-wise and I love how the satin-creamy finish makes your lips look fuller.

Romantic Autumn Rose is a gorgeous peachy pink color that brightens your face, but still manages to look natural. It’s a great everyday color. From looking at different swatches online, I was afraid it might be too pink or orange, so I was really pleased that it turned out to be quite well balanced and unique. I don’t own anything like it and it is one of the rare pinks I feel looks good with my skin tone. The quality of these is great and I can see myself buying more shades in the future (hello gorgeous cherry red one).

You can buy the Innisfree Color Glow Lipstick in Romantic Autumn Rose from their website. 

Tanya Burr Lip Glosses: Aurora and Berry Picking

Hello everyone today I bring you a review on one of my favorite affordable lip glosses. I just love finding a high quality product at a great price which is exactly what the Tanya Burr Lip Glosses are. I currently own two: Aurora and Berry Picking, but you can be sure my collection will increase in the future.

These lip glosses come in a nice looking tube, nothing fancy but it looks classic and not cheap at all. The two shades I own have a lovely creamy formula that glides on the lips offering moisture and lots of shine. The pigmentation level is great, they are not opaque but the color still packs a punch. You can also build up the intensity by layering it and worry not, it never feels sticky. The texture is actually very smooth on the lips, which is quite pleasant. They wear for a few hours easily and the shine and color fade evenly so you don’t end up with patchy looking lips. Another thing I love is their sweet fruity scent, it is delicious!

As for the actual colors, Aurora is a cute medium pink color, on me it looks a bit brighter and darker than in the tube. Honestly it does not suit my complexion the best but the formula is so great I like wearing it anyway. Berry Picking is my favorite of the two, it’s a real berry color with gold shimmer that’s a bit sheerer than Aurora, but it adds gorgeous dimension to your lips. It’s not too dark or too red so you can easily wear on its own during the daytime and it is also lovely over a stain. I was just blown away by these glosses, the quality is truly incredible for the price.

There are quite a few colors I plan on picking up next (I’m looking at you I Found Nemo). You can get the Tanya Burr Lip Glosses in select Superdrug and they are also available on their website and on Feelunique (ships internationally).

  

MAC Studio Finish Concealer

Concealer is without a doubt one of the most useful product to have in your makeup bag and while I always struggle to find one that matches my skin, my under eye concealer has been a perfect match for years. MAC has a great color selection and their Studio Finish Concealer is nothing short of amazing for covering up dark circles.

This super creamy concealer is emollient enough to melt into the skin without looking cakey, but it will also stay in place all day. The formula packs a punch in terms of pigmentation, you only need a little to cover dark circles which also prevent you under eye area from looking heavy. Also bonus points for this having SPF 35, so many eye products offer zero sun protect even though this is one of the first areas to show signs of age and sun damage. I think this offers so much considering it is quite affordable and I love the results I can easily get with it every morning.

The Studio Finish Concealer comes in 15 shades and NC15 is a perfect match for my very fair skin. That being said it is too dark for me to use on the rest of my face, its peachy tone is great to counteract the blueish tone of dark circles but it does not work when trying to make a spot disappear. Also I have to say that on my combination skin it does not last all day on imperfections, but I don’t mind solely using it under my eyes because its lasting power there is amazing. I have repurchased it many times over the years and I don’t see myself moving on to something different any time soon. Plus that little pot will last you for ages.

You can get the MAC Studio Finish Concealer on their website and from any MAC counter.   

Buxom Full-On Lip Polishes

The aisles of Sephora are full of beautiful colors and shiny packaging, it can be a bit overwhelming at times if you don’t want to miss out on anything. A brand that, I feel, isn’t talked about much is Buxom so I wanted to introduce you to their amazing Full-On Lip Polishes today.

Shades left to right: Starr, Candi, Eva, Destiny, Dolly, Sandy (not 100% sure the label came off), April, Clair

The lip polish is a plumping lip gloss that makes your lips feel tingly and increases they fullness slightly. The formula is very glossy helping your lips look even more plumped and adds dimension. The glosses have some sort of mint ingredient so they feel very cooling and I think that’s what produces the tingling sensation. This also increases the volume of your lips a little but don’t worry it doesn’t burn like others lip plumpers do, though the sensation might surprise you at first. I should also mention that these are not drying at all on the lips, so thumbs up for the formula.

               Shades top to bottom: Sandy (not 100% sure the label came off), Destiny, Candi 

Shades left to right: Shades: Sandy (not 100% sure the label came off), Destiny, Candi 

Speaking of formula, this one is a bit sticky but I don’t mind because it stays on for a long time and the shine and color fade evenly. I was very impressed with the quality of these and after I got used to the sensation (I’m not a fan of lip plumpers) I have really been enjoying these. They have a crème brûlée scent (not my favorite) but you can’t taste it and it thankfully does not linger. They are nicely pigmented though some are sheerer depending on the finish, offering you nice variety.

Shades top to bottom: Starr, Dolly, Clair, Eva, April 

Shades left to right: April, Eva, Clair, Dolly, Starr

This stunning lip glosses come in 99 different shades and sleek packaging that makes them look expensive. Each color is named after a girl and you can see the different characters drawn on the box, they are super cute, going from beach girl to pinup and red carpet glam. The shade selection is super impressive and I love how there are different finishes like cream and shimmery ones. They are also affordable so you can pick up multiple colors without feeling too guilty. 

The Buxom Full-On Lip Polishes are available exclusively at Sephora both online and in stores. They are also currently offering a cute set of six  minis at a great price, you can find it here.

Dior Skinflash Radiance Booster Pen

A traveller’s must-have, the best friend of anyone working long hours or studying late into the night, yes I’m talking about an under eye brightener. The market is full of products that promise to illuminate your eyes and make dark circles disappear, but I find that you often only get one or the other. You either get coverage or an illuminator so sheer it won’t do much on its own. However I have found a game-changer in the Dior Skinflash Radiance Booster Pen.

This is the perfect balance between a concealer and an illuminator. It is pigmented enough to cover-up dark circles and the illuminating particles in brighten your under eye area, making you look even more well rested. The effect is quite subtle, there is no shimmers or glitters here, but it somehow manages to make a world of a difference.

The formula is a light cream so it is super easy to blend and it doesn’t crease. Depending on the shade you pick (there are four), you can also use it to illuminate other areas of your face just like you would with a highlighter. I have the lightest yellow-toned shade (002 Candle Light) and on my very fair skin it works really well as a concealer but it does not do much in the highlighting department. If you have a bit more color than me (which shouldn’t be hard), than you could easily use it for both. 

I absolutely love this product and I know I will be purchasing it again. Yes it is more expensive than other products being from Dior, but the formula is so incredibly worth it. You can get the Dior Skinflash Radiance Booster Pen from their website, at any Dior counter as well as from Sephora and Feelunique. 

The Perfect Classic Red Lip: L’Oréal Colour Riche Lipstick in Red Passion

I love a red lip, I have quite the collection of glosses, sheer lipsticks and stains in all shades of red. That being said, I did not have a classic red lipstick. You know that beautiful old Hollywood color with a creamy finish and the perfect balance between cool and warm tones. Well I finally found it so let’s all bask in the beauty that is the L’Oréal Colour Riche Lipstick in Red Passion.

I first saw it during the Cannes Film Festival, Doutzen Kroes was wearing the most flattering shade of red lipstick and a little search on the L’Oréal Instagram reveal that she was wearing a lipstick in Red Passion. Doutzen Kroes can pretty much sell me anything, so I went to the drugstore and I am now the proud owner of this gorgeous lip product.

The formula is super creamy and goes on smoothly on the lips, leaving them with intense color and a chic sating finish. In the bullet, you can see small shimmer particles, but don’t worry you cannot feel them on the lips and they don’t make the lipstick shimmery because they don’t show up on the lips. Instead the particles add a luminous finish that makes your lips look plumper. The formula simply catches the light beautifully.

Shade wise, this is the perfect classic red, it’s not cool toned but doesn’t pull orange either. It’s the perfect balance of colors that brighten your complexion and looks chic no matter what time of the day you are wearing it. If you have fair skin you need this in your life. Obviously, red lips are more high maintenance but applying a clear lip pencil around your lip line goes a long to prevent feathering. It will fade if you eat or drink, but it’s easy to touch up because the bullet has a very sharp tip that allows you to easily follow the contour of your lips and cupid’s bow. Also, it doesn’t fade patchily, it looks more like a stain as it wears off.

To me this is the perfect red lipstick and I love that it is amazing as well as being super affordable. You can find the L’Oréal Colour Riche Lipstick in Red Passion at any drugstores and L’Oréal retailers.   

Dior Backstage Eye Prime

I think it is fair to say from past articles that I don’t like talking about products I don’t like and today’s item is not bad or anything but I’m a bit disappointed in it. Dior is my favorite high-end brand but their Backstage Eye Prime has left me a bit perplexed.

Basically, this is a flesh-toned cream eyeshadow primer that is supposed to extend the wear and intensity of your eye makeup, turning your eyes into a perfect canvas. I loved it when I first got it, my shadows lasted all day with no creasing and unlike other primers, its drier texture made it super easy to blend my makeup. The thing is, now it does not prevent my makeup from creasing anymore. I’m not sure what happened, maybe my lids are oilier or it’s because the formula dried out a bit. That’s another thing, you have to be careful to really tightly screw the lid back in its place otherwise the formula will dry out. Luckily, I was able remove it from the pot and put it back upside-down so I can use the bottom half that was still fresh.

Now, the primer does not perform exactly like it used to but there is something it’s still great at: color-correcting my lids. I have very fair skin and as such the skin on my eyes is quite thin so you can see little veins. The Dior primer has a very natural skin tone color that I can blend to cover up the veins and perfectly even out my eyes, making them look brighter and more awake. I love using this on days when I don’t want to wear any eye makeup, but still want to look well rested. 

The formula of this is very dry so you do need to warm it up on your fingertip to make it easier to apply. Some might not like this, but the matte finish it gives to the skin is more natural looking and since it doesn’t leave your eyelids tacky, your eyeshadows will blend more easily and without dragging. Honestly, I don’t know if I would recommend this product as a primer (mostly because it’s expensive) since I can’t guaranty its effect in the long run. However, if you are looking for a corrector the Backstage Eye Prime is great and who knows, yours might be efficient at keeping your makeup in place too. 

You can get the Dior Backstage Eye Prime from their website and at any of their Counters. It is also available from Sephora and Feelunique.