Review | Make Up For Ever HD Microperfecting Primer

Fan of primers? Do you use them on a regular basis, or do you skip them due to lack of time?

My combination skin fits more on the dry category, so my primer of choice is usually moisturizer. Not an overly thick texture, like you'd apply at nighttime, but something than provides deep hydration while absorbing quickly, making your base glide over. This is essential for me, because foundation and dry patches don't look good together...

I haven't tried many complexion primers, but whilst going through my make-up drawers, I found these HD Primers from Make Up For Ever, in Neutral and Caramel. The first is great for all skin tones and Caramel is ideal to warm up darker ones, or, mixed with the Neutral, to provide a slight bronze glow.

Other colour correcting shades in the range include: Green, to neutralize redness; Blue, adds radiance to fair skin; Yellow, lightens dark complexions; Pink, brightens the complexion; and Mauve to counteract sallow undertones.

Being oil free, this gel formula can be used on every skin type, from dry to oily, providing lightweight hydration and making the base last longer. But, for me, its most important task is helping the base just glide over it. Perfect finish!

The application is quite easy and quick: simply apply a couple of pumps with fingers or a brush of choice, before your foundation. The alternative method is mixing it with the foundation, achieving a sheer coverage. Oily skins just need a fine dust of powder on top.

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Wishlist #4 | Charlotte Tilbury Make-up Revolution

Being obsessed make-up — enough to channel it into a career — I always admired Charlotte Tilbury's work. I especially love her rock chick look and the feline eyes.
So, needless to say, I was counting the days until her make-up collection launched on www.charlottetilbury.com.

The first item to jump into my wishlist was Charlotte's Magic Cream, obviously. The Treat and Transform Moisturizer SPF15 is Charlotte's best kept secret. Everyone, from models to regular clients, become obsessed with this magic potion. It's a mix of patented anti-age ingredients, a hyaluronic acid booster and floral extracts that lift and transform tired skin. Basically, it brightens and plumps the skin, providing a radiant look and a better canvas for make-up application.

Next up, Brow Lift in the shade Brooke S. I love making-up all the facial features, but I especially love brows. Full, strong brows can really frame a face. If I'm ever going for the no make-up make-up look, I always make sure the brows are sculpted. This 3-in-1 product features a brush on one end, as per usual, a highlighter to apply under the brow, for a lifting effect, and the actual cream-pencil product in a slanted tip — to fill in any gaps, recreating fine hairs. It looks similar to Tom Ford Brow Sculptor, with a friendlier price tag.

Continuing with the eye theme, the Luxury Palette in The Dolce Vita has amazing shades. It might be the first palette where all four shades are equally beautiful. Each palette's shades are divided in 4 categories: Prime, Enhance, Pop and Smoke. So, you'll actually end up using all four shades in the same look, which can be more subtle, for daytime, or more smokey.

For lips, my favourite from the whole collection was a typical "me" shade: K.I.S.S.I.N.G. in Night Crimson. The anti-oxidant formula protects from UV damage and external pollution, keeping the lips soft. By seeing it in action in her videos, these lipsticks are evidently creamy and highly pigmented.
I'll add more shades for sure...

And, finally, a mini selection of brushes. The Powder & Sculpt Brush is great to contour and highlight the face, due it's soft pointed tip. To get the perfect grungy look, use the Eye Smudger Brush, for a close smudging action. The Eye Blender Brush is ideal for a quick wash of colour or to blend any shade effortlessly.

By the way, don't forget to watch Charlotte Tilbury's videos on her YouTube channel, where she does her 10 iconic looks, with easy to follow, step by step instructions.
Now, excusez-moi, while I try not to purchase the entire line...

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Review | Diorskin Airflash Spray Foundation

During warmer months, I love wearing make-up on the eyes and on the lips, but when it comes to the face, it's a whole other story...

Except when the product is as lightweight as Diorskin Airflash Spray Foundation. This has to be the lightest, the most fluid formula, that perfectly mimics the skin's texture. If you love CHANEL Vitalumière Aqua Foundation for it's undetectable quality, then you'll love this. Even though the CHANEL one has more coverage, you can definitely build up with this formula.

My shade is Medium Beige 300, and, I should point out that (at least) this shade does oxidize a little bit during the day. But don't worry, it's not too obvious. You can only notice it when inspecting closely on a mirror. My advice is to use it sparingly and blend out the edges.

You might observe, in the photo above, that the mist is so light that you can barely see it, but trust me, it dispenses quite a lot of product without you noticing it — and it's quite messy! The best way to apply this foundation, in my opinion, is by spraying it on a buffing/duo-fibre brush and blending it out from the center of the face. You'll feel an immediate cooling effect, from the moment the foundation comes into contact with the skin.

If you do choose to spray it directly, make sure that you don't spray too close — at least 30cm afar — and protect the hair with a turban! If this method works for you, then you'll have the base done in a few seconds! How awesome is that?

A quick note: the one I own has a navy cap, but now you can find it with a silver one. I believe it's the same formula, they just updated the look to match the new Airflash products - CC Primer (a colour correcting primer) and Matte Touch (a finishing powder).

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Autumn | Looking forward to...

As I'm already preparing to embrace the next season, which happens to be my favourite, when Autumn comes I'm looking forward to:

 

. Finally moving to LONDON and meeting new people (yadda yadda yadda);

. Attending an awesome HALLOWEEN party;

. Seeing THIRTY SECONDS TO MARS at the O2 Arena;

. Wearing boots and my favourite LEATHER JACKET again;

. Having BURGUNDY shades in my make-up.

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Summer faves | Beauty, fashion and random

This post is long overdue. I had started a draft for about a month or two, but somehow forgot to finish it! Okay, here we go, my absolute favourites for summer 2013 — the crème de la crème of beauty, fashion and some random bits:



BEAUTY

Base  | Estée Lauder Daywear B.B Anti-Oxidant Beauty Benefit Cream in Medium
Lipstick  |  Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet in 43 La Favorite
Nail varnish  |  Bourjois So Laque Ultra Shine in Bleu Model
Perfume  |  Yves Saint Laurent Parisienne Eau de Parfum, which is getting really close to its last spritz




FASHION

Shoes  |  Zara Spiked Ballerina (These are from last season. Alternatives here and here.)
Bag  |  Miss Sixty (Alternative from Guess, here.)
Sunglasses  |  Diesel wayferer style
Clothing  |  Ted Baker Playsuit With Bow Detail



RANDOM

Food  |  Besides watermelon or the occasional Calippo, spinach and mushroom quiche, with a wholemeal crust
Drink  |  Chilled green tea with lemon
TV show  |  True Blood, of course
Books  |  George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire, on my tablet

Activities  |  Going to music festivals!

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The beauty bag | Summer heat update

Current location? Lisbon, Portugal. Temperature? Very warm. So, naturally, the contents of my beauty bag have changed.

First of all, I've decided to edit and simplify this group of products. Meaning, I'm not carrying around 10 lippies anymore. Whether you're going to a festival or just commuting in a crowded bus with broken air conditioner (lovely), you'll want to make an effort so that your make-up don't melt off your face.

The key to choosing the right products is testing their longevity. Usually, spotting the expression waterproof or long lasting on the label is a good sign. Some ranges I really like, especially for this type of hot and humid weather, are Urban Decay 24/7 and Make Up For Ever Aqua. They stay in place all day (and night), so you can just apply them in the morning and forget you have make-up on.

The current face division consists of Urban Decay 24/7 Concealer Pencil in NSA, to conceal dark circles and redness around the nose, and Chanel Natural Finish Pressed Powder in 30 Naturel, to mattify the T-zone. If I feel like wearing any sort of base, I'll go for MAC Face and Body Foundation in C5 — entitled as the perfect base for warmer months, thanks to its water-resistant quality. A teeny tiny dab of Make Up For Ever HD Microfinish Cream Blush (in the shade 4 Walk of Shame) on the cheeks, provides a healthy glow. It doesn't contain shimmer, but gives a soft-focus effect.

To frame the face, I apply a bit of M.U.F.E. Aqua Brow in 25 Ash, using a slanted tip brush (like MAC 208). It is unbelievably good at filling in sparse areas or even drawing in full brows, when they fit in the very fair category or, even when they are virtually non-existent. Naturally, an essential part of my kit.

In the eye department, a swipe of Rimmel Scandaleyes Stick in Bad Girl Bronze on the lid, blended in with fingers or a fluffy brush, makes a good base. To define the lashline, a quick application of Make Up For Ever Aqua Eyes does the trick. The shade Pearly Brown 2L gives a softer look, but you can just go for Matte Black 0L to intensely define the eye. For mascara, choose a formula that doesn't smudge on you. Usually, I don't have an issue with this, so I rarely wear waterproof formulas. Having said that, I really like Make Up For Ever Aqua Smoky Lash.

To finish off the look, a long-lasting lipstick does the job. My most reached for have been Burberry Lip Velvet in Rose Azalea No. 308 (love that shade) and Aqua Rouge liquid lipstick (in 2 Rosewood).
On dry lip occasions, I reach for Clinique Chubby Stick (in Two Ton Tomato), of course.

Some other essentials that jumped into my beauty bag are Caudalie Beauty Elixir (gotta have a refreshing mist on hand), Japonesque Blotting Paper Pouch (does what it says on the tin), Clarins Hand and Nail Treatment Cream and a mini perfume atomizer or rollerball, in this case, Burberry Body.

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Loose powders | Chanel, MAC and Make Up For Ever

My first powder purchases came in a compact form. A choice motivated by the awareness of my own clumsiness — that was more severe, back then — resulting in a powder-coated desk. And floor. 

This practical thought, was later developed by a new motivation: an improvement on my skills. I had noticed that the pros preferred loose powders and, through my infinite research on the web, I found that it provided a better result.

I'm not one to powder the whole face. Just a dab on the nose and, sometimes, I set the concealer using the remaining product on the brush.
Powders do neutralize the shine, which is great, but due to this quality, some of them might become more detectable on the skin. Not so great.

The first loose powder I played with was Make Up For Ever HD Powder. It is very, very fine — a sweep with the brush results in a cloud of white dust in the air — and transparent to the naked eye or in filming. Apparently, not so great with flash photography, it might result in a white cast (see Wayne's video, here). Nonetheless, it makes the skin look pretty much flawless and unbelievably soft to the touch, as it's made of silica powder. Comes in one universal shade that suits all, but do apply sparingly.
Being a great setting and mattifying tool, the HD Powder also enhances dry patches. So, when the priority is to set the concealer on a dry under eye area, this might not be the best offering.

Another product of sorts, it's the MAC Prep+Prime Transparent Finishing Powder. Again, one universal shade that suits all and, even though the particles are less fine — no cloud formation — I find this one more transparent. A great one for T-zone duties, since it perfects the look of pores and controls shine.

After sitting in my mental list for quite some time, Chanel Natural Finish Loose Powder entered my collection, by surprise, on account of an impulsive buy. It actually does provide a natural finish and it is, by far, the best to set the under eye area or to use on dry skin types. Whilst being transparent, it does unify the complexion, allowing the use on bare skin. And, controls shine without a dull appearance. My recommending finger points immediately to this one.

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Concealing (truly) dark circles

If you own a pair of these, then I bet you roll your eyes out when someone says "I suffer from really bad dark circles", but really it's a sheer blue/purple toned (temporary) shadow.

I'm talking about the real thing, as in whether you sleep well or not, it doesn't make the slightest difference. Along with those big brown eyes, you also inherited the dark circles around them. And I mean circles, literally.

What you can do, is to embrace the world of make-up to cover them up. Considering that we are are trying to make that area much lighter, in order to match the surrounding skin, it is not an easy breezy goal to achieve. At first.

There are quite different types of concealers or correctors to choose from, just depends on the final result that you're looking for.

HIGH COVERAGE CONCEALER

This is an obvious choice and, probably, the first solution you think of. A concealer like Make Up For Ever Full Cover or Urban Decay 24/7 Concealer Pencil are the go-to options, if you want something that will last all day — especially in hot, humid weather — and effectively provide a flawless look.

They're less creamy and require a quick application, because they set. Which is great, since there's no collecting into fine lines during the day. But, it also means that usually the finish is matte — not the best option for dry skin types. Do opt for a shade that is just a bit lighter, considering that matte products usually look darker once they set.

BRIGHTENING CORRECTOR

The oldest trick in the book is applying a corrector with a peach or pink tint. Usually creamier in texture, correctors help to neutralize and warm up the the brown/ashy colour of the circles, brightening the area — ideal to use in the inner corners, since most people have a little receding area that creates a shadow. 

Top rated options include the notorious Bobbi Brown Creamy Corrector and my favourite: Giorgio Armani Master Corrector. You wouldn't believe what a teeny-tiny amount of this liquid can achieve. Five stars.

HIGHLIGHTING PENS

I'm sure you've seen a lot of them around, lately. Both high-end and High Street brands have a product of sorts, but they are not all the same. One thing they have in common is the light reflecting quality, which is brilliant to brighten the inner corners, where it's usually darker.

Most of them have a beige/golden tone that allows you to wear it after your regular concealer, sparingly, bringing a bit of sheen on a matte or dull finish. Top picks: Guerlain Precious Light and Yves Saint Laurent Touche Éclat, of course.

Some highlighting pens have more of a peach or pink shade, that almost works as a corrector. Yes, the formula is more sheer, but for an effortless and natural "no make-up" look, the light reflecting attribute counteracts the darkness, allowing you to pull it of on it's own. Just rely on a product that works best for you, making sure that it's not very sheer. Do try Clinique Airbrush Concealer.

A while ago, I tried a sample of Burberry Sheer Concealer and was taken aback by it's coverage. Not only had the perfect corrector shade (Rosy Beige No.03), but the formula wasn't as sheer as I'd expected. I actually picked it up before finishing this post. 

I must mention a very important detail here: these are not ideal for photography, because of their light reflecting properties, which may not look great on camera. Unless they're used sparingly in specific areas, like the top of cheekbones or the very inner corners.

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Review | Benefit Stay Don't Stray

You may or may not be familiar with the regular version of Stay Don't Stray by Benefit. If you are, you'll know that there were some major improvements in the packaging department — namely the handy doe foot applicator, instead of a pump that dispensed too much product at a time. But I was mostly intrigued with the release of a Medium/Deep version of this primer, which means no more ashy shadows in sight, especially if you have (really) dark circles.

Let me be clear about this. The Medium/Deep shade isn't quite as dark as it sounds. Considering that this isn't just a primer for the lid area, but also primes the under eye area before concealer application, this shade should be defined as "Medium". And perhaps a release of a darker tone, that would be named "Deep". But let's not get greedy, my friend!

Now, here's the lowdown. I have to say, this is the best eye primer I've tried so far.
Let's consider the skin in a 360º mode: oily lids, dry skin under the eyes and the occasional bit of eczema in the inner corners. This doesn't cling onto dry patches, like some primers do — especially tinted ones — and has an amazing staying power on the lids. Quite impressive, really. Plus, it neutralizes the lid colour, making it ideal to wear on it's own, or to make eyeshadows pop.
What really sold me, was the fact that because it's tinted, you need a lesser amount of concealer — which, together with the priming action, means less creasing. I rarely set it with powder anymore. And I could (and have) totally rock this on it's own, for a no make-up day.
Besides lasting quite well throughout the day, it also doesn't dry out on the skin, due to the sodium hyaluronate in the formula.

I find that the best way to apply this product is with light tapping motions, using your ring finger (as per usual). Start on the under eye area and apply the remaining product onto the lids — this is the part where I say "a little bit goes a long way". You can immediately notice the brightening effect upon application. Definitely a keeper!

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Sort it out | The 5 minute make-up routine

We all try to be there in time. To work, to school or to meet a friend. Sometimes, I get up earlier and think "oh, I can take my time to get ready today". But somehow, I end up being late. Again.
I always have a "Plan B" for those days when I gasp, whilst staring at the watch unbelievably. "What? But...how? Argh!" Don't panic. Just cross those non-essential steps off the list, to get you out the door as quickly as possible.

I usually style my hair at night, so that's sorted — I just need to comb it through, which takes about 5 seconds. I also lay out my outfit and accessories. But, when it comes to make-up, there's not much you can do, besides making sure that the usual suspects are easily accessible.

What you can do, is choosing foolproof products. Opt for the ones that don't require a lot of blending or layering. Cut out all of those steps that aren't really necessary to look presentable to the world, like curling lashes or contouring. Oh, and this selection should include items that you absolutely trust. New products are fun to try, when you have the time.

Considering that these products should fit in the category "pop on and go", opt for a tinted moisturizer or a BB/CC cream that's easily and quickly blended with your fingers. I personally think this is the best way to apply these kind of products, anyway. I'd go for the Estée Lauder Daywear B.B Anti-Oxidant Beauty Benefit Creme, which offers a bit more coverage than your standard BB cream.

If you're having a good skin day and just need some brightening in the inner corner of the eyes, opt for a pen highlighter, like the Yves Saint Laurent Touche Éclat. They're precise and don't require a separate brush to apply.
On the other hand, if you have dark circles and/or blemishes, pick a good pigmented concealer, to avoid wasting time layering until you get the right coverage. Obviously the ideal choice for this is the Urban Decay 24/7 Concealer Pencil. So easy!

For a little something something on your cheeks, go for a powder blusher if you have oily skin — nothing too pigmented though, let's not take any unnecessary risks, people! Burberry Light Glow blushers are ideal to use when time is of the essence. If you have normal to dry skin, opt for a cream formula instead — perhaps the Too Faced Full Bloom Cheek & Lip Colour, since it can be used on the lips as well.

If you like to rock a bright colour on the lips, don't even bother with lip liners or matte lipsticks and a brush. A tinted balm stick like Clinique Chubby Stick Intense will be your new obsession. Such a brilliant product!

To all the fans of defined eyes out there, put aside that gel liner and bring on your Rimmel Scandaleyes Stick. It is ridiculously easy to use and sets in place. Apply close to the lashes, just in the outer corners and leave it as is, or smudge quickly before it sets. Of course, you can just opt for a few lashings of mascara. Choose a formula that provides both volume and curl. Join the Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara club. It's fab!

One last advice, if you get shiny on the T-zone: always keep a compact powder and blotting paper in your make-up bag, to touch up during the day. So, there you have it: an edited make-up wardrobe, to transform your face in under five minutes! Now, go!

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What's in my bag?

A sneak peek inside my bag today. This is a large mint bowling bag that I got from Topshop, last Summer.

Starting of, the basics: keys, purse, train pass, phone and tablet — mostly to read on the train. Currently addicted to some Sherlock Holmes.
I usually have some random rings from ASOS to pop on, after moisturizing my hands. Speaking of, my hand cream is the Caudalie Hand and Nail Cream, which has a gorgeous scent. And I also carry around a mini Beauty Elixir.

Now, the make-up bag. It's mostly full of lip products, because I like to change during the day and I need options. To touch up the face, I have a Japonesque Blotting Paper Pouch, a Chanel Poudre Universelle Compact (in 30 Naturel), the ever so practical Urban Decay 24/7 Concealer Pencil in DOD and a Guerlain Terracota Touch highlighter in 02 Brunettes.
In the lippy category, I have a shameful amount of Clinique Chubby Sticks, 2 regular ones (in Two Ton Tomato and Mega Melon) and 2 Intense versions (in Heftiest Hibiscus and Roomiest Rose), and if you think that's a lot, let me tell you, I've carried more. To prime the lips, especially for some matte versions ahead, I use the Guerlain KissKiss Liplift. From Chanel, I usually pack a lip balm (Rouge Coco Baume), a nude option (Rouge Coco in 05 Mademoiselle) and a matte burgundy or a bright shade, depending on the season (currently opting for the Rouge Allure Velvet in 43 La Favorite). Some other favourites that usually hang around in my make-up bag are Burberry Lip Velvet in Pink Azalea No.308 and Dior Addict Lipstick in 437 Charmante, from the Cherie Bow Spring Look. *Breathes*
For the eyes, I always have this Yves Saint Laurent Long-Lasting Eye Pencil (in 01 Velvet Black) and my favourite mascara of the moment, Diorshow Iconic Overcurl mascara in 090 Over Black. In my black Travalo I have some Yves Saint Laurent Parisienne right now. Oh, and my precious Model Mirror, a lighted compact double-sided mirror, with eight battery-powered LEDs, that has a regular side and a magnifying one. That's about it!

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Tag | 7 beauty sins

So, my first tag type post. I've been searching through a few and this one seemed... better? Some of them had really odd questions and some were far too long, and frankly, boring. Anyway, on with the questions:

GREED
What is your most inexpensive beauty item? What is your most expensive?
My most inexpensive beauty items are from Rimmel. They have great budget buys, like the Wake Me Up Foundation or the Scandaleyes Waterproof Khol Kajal Eye Liners. I'm not sure what is my most expensive beauty item, besides fragrance, but I think it's the Chanel Beauté Initiale Eye gel.

WRATH
What beauty products do you have a love/hate relationship with? What product has been the hardest to get?
I've had a love/hate relationship with the Clinique High Impact Extreme Volume mascara. I loved it during the first couple of months, and after that period of time, I didn't like it as much. It became really gloopy — which isn't ideal for such tiny bristles — and had that weird smell that mascaras do, when they go bad. The product I had to haunt after, from shop to shop, was the Urban Decay Naked Palette, when it first came out. It was always sold out!

GLUTTONY
What are your most delicious beauty products?
I don't really like fruity or sweet scents in my beauty bits, but I really love rose scented products. So my answer is Dior Crème de Rose lip balm, since it's a lip product. 

SLOTH
What beauty product do you neglect, due to laziness?
Sometimes, when I'm in a hurry I forget to apply eye primer. And I usually don't curl my lashes — but they're not straight, so no worries!

PRIDE
What beauty product gives you the most self confidence?
At first, I thought about mascara or lipstick, but no. It's concealer, of course! I couldn't step out the door without it, ever, so it definitely gives me the most self confidence.

LUST
What attributes do you find most attractive in the opposite sex?
There's always that little odd question, isn't there? Well, I guess nice teeth. And brows.

ENVY
What items would you most like to receive as a gift?

Oh, I'd love to get a whole lot of Rodial or Alpha-H products. Or all of the Burberry lip products.

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Wishlist #3 | Recently added products

That's right, I've added even more products to my wishlist. It's only a meter long, so obviously needs more items... The real danger of having a wishlist, especially one that is so large, is that everywhere you go you see something you think you need. So you end up buying it... Trust me, I can justify anything.

First up: Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Sheer Powder, as the name says, it's a compact powder that provides a natural healthy glow. I won't even talk about the super chic cream and black compact or the half-moon brush, but I'll say this: I'm always on the hunt for a natural looking powder and Chanel makes my favourite one. So, obviously I'm intrigued. Still, when I saw the ad for the first time I thought "I just got a compact powder from Chanel and I really like it, why do I need another one?". My excuse? This one gives a healthy glow, so I really, really need it! Also, Lisa Eldridge's video was really convincing. You can choose your regular shade, or, a shade darker if you want a bronzed look. Oh, and did I mention that this antioxidant powder protects the skin from environmental stress and sunlight? 

The second item is this Clarins Pro Palette Eyebrow Kit, which surprisingly I haven't seen much around in the blogosphere. The usual Clarins-style gold case carries three eyeshadows to shape and fill-in brows, a wax to hold them in place, a luminous shadow to highlight the brow bone, a little double-sided brush, a small spooly and mini tweezers. And a huge mirror. How amazing is that?

Finally, a very important skincare bit: Alpha-H Liquid Gold Rejuvenating Cream. This is like one of those things that I needed before it existed, you know? Basically this nourishing moisturizer takes care of dull, uneven or dehydrated skins, by stimulating cell turnover, courtesy of my favourite exfoliant, Glycolic Acid, of course. Antioxidant-rich Argan stem cells and Vitamin C, help the skin to repair itself and protect from free radicals, whilst Lipo-peptide Matrixyl-6 stimulate the production of Hyaluronic Acid, for a plumping effect. More suppleness and less redness, wrinkles, dark spots and pores. Well, they appear smaller. FYI, this product is on top of my list.

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Review | Benefit Fakeup Hydrating Crease-Control Concealer

Today's review is on something I've wanted to get the minute it was released. But, at the time, I thought I had so many concealers already, just sitting in my drawer, therefore I didn't need another one. That was until I went to Sephora one day and caved in. Ah... Who can resist a bit of Benefit and it's super cute packaging?

Anyway, if you have dry skin under the eyes, you'll love this: Benefit Fakeup Hydrating Crease-Control Concealer (mine is in Medium). Comes in a bullet, so it's pretty much like applying a lip balm under the eyes — but less weird, I suppose. It's very soothing and kind of feels like you have a protective barrier throughout the day. The concealer bit is on the center, surrounded by a hydrating balm on the outside — reminds me of the Clarins Crystal Lip Balms. You can stroke it directly under the eyes and then blend it, patting with your ring finger or a brush. I like to use the Real Techniques Setting Brush for this.
Before I tried this product, I assumed that it would crease really badly, since it's so hydrating and emollient, so I was really astonished by the results. Sure, it did crease a bit, but every concealer creases on me — even Make Up For Ever Full Cover or Urban Decay 24/7 Concealer Pencil. After I blended it the first time it creased, it didn't move for hours. Pretty cool. What I really like about this, is the fact that it makes the skin look really healthy and radiant. I even tried layering a bit of the Urban Decay 24/7 Concealer Pencil on top and set it with a bit of loose powder, and it still had a slight glow showing through. Doesn't cake up or dry out.
It's formulated with apple seed extract and Vitamin E to hydrate the skin, making it look luminous and natural. I'd say this concealer has a medium coverage, but you can top it up with a more opaque concealer (or highlighter) just on darker areas, like the inner corners of the eyes, and it'll cover up. Also, the packaging is ideal to carry around in your make-up bag, to top up during the day. I might get the shade Dark and mix the two to get the perfect colour. All in all, a big thumbs up!

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Empties #3

Okay, time for another empties post. Because I want to throw away some stuff. Hah!
This time, I have a couple of hair products, some skincare bits and a mascara — I'm pretty sure you know which one. Yep, it's the Clinique High Impact Extreme Volume Mascara. You can read a proper review here, though, I should add that when it gets to the point where it starts to dry out a bit, the formula gets a bit gloopy. Considering that the bristles are so small, it's not ideal. But, it's still a good mascara nonetheless.

Since said mascara is a bit hard to cleanse away, a pretty nice product to take it off with is MAC Gently Off Eye & Lip Makeup Remover. It's dual-phased — formulated with both water and oil —, so you have to shake it in order to combine the two. Removes every trace of make-up, whether it's oil-based or water-based, including stubborn mascaras (case in point) and lip stains. It's gentle and suitable for all skin types. Formulated with Cucumber extract and Damascus Rose water to soothe and refresh. If you prefer this type of cleanser that you pour into a cotton pad and wipe away, opposed to a balm or cream cleanser and a warm cloth, this is a good option, for sure. It's quick and easy. Just hold the cotton pads in place for a few seconds and then gently swipe the make-up off and rinse. Easy-peasy.

If your skin is oily or combination, and you know just how frustrating a shiny nose can be, I totally feel you. My skin is combination, but whenever I'm out and about, especially in the sun or somewhere with a powerful AC, my nose gets shiny in a few hours. Powders just don't do it for more than that period of time. Obviously, blotting tissue is my friend, but I also need some sort of primer to extend the need to blot and powder during the day. I have tried many, many of them, and still haven't found an amazing one that lasts all day. The best I've tried so far, was this Clinique Pore Minimizer T-Zone Shine Control. I can't find it on the Clinique site/counters anymore, but I found it on Amazon (click here). It keeps shine at bay until mid-afternoon, which is pretty good, and it's very lightweight and colourless. Comes in a gel texture and goes on smoothly, leaving pores minimized and a velvety feel. Acts as a great primer under make-up and can be used over make-up, as well. Contains Salicydic Acid (which exfoliates the pores from the inside), Silica (to absorb shine), Witch Hazel (to tighten pores) and Clove Flower extract (to reduce oil production). Has quite a strong alcohol smell when you first squeeze it out, but goes away almost instantly, so it doesn't really bother me.
I was going to repurchase this, but since it has been discontinued, I got the Pore Refining Solutions Instant Perfector in Invisible Bright, instead. So far, so good. Goes on very smoothly, kinda like silicone.

Moving on to the hair department, I finished another bottle of Kérastase Nutritive Bain Satin 2. This shampoo is so rich and luxurious. If you have dry hair, you'll love this. The smell is incredible (redundant information, since it's Kérastase, duh!) and the formula is very, very creamy. I always let it stay for a couple of minutes before rinsing, to let the ingredients do their job. It's very moisturizing and provides a great level of nutrition, so the hair doesn't feel dry or dehydrated, even when you use harsh styling tools (ghd Styler, I'm looking at you!). Contains glucose, proteins and lipids to protect and repair the hair fiber. Just try it.

To close up, I'll end with a hair treatment — Goldwell DualSenses Rich Repair 60 Second Treatment. I was both skeptical and excited about the "60 Second" mention on the label. I don't have the patience to wait 15 minutes for a hair mask to work every time I wash my hair, especially on weekdays. Leaves hair feeling very soft and, most importantly, acts fast. The formula balances the lipid levels in the hair, making it supple and healthy looking. Definitely will repurchase.

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Review | Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara

Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara in Over Black 090

When this mascara from Dior came out, I was very excited to try it out. I've been very happy with the previous ones that I've tried from the brand, but not only that, this brush really caught my eye. The formula matters, sure, but for me, the brush does most of the job. Depending on the shape, length, elasticity and types of bristles, you can get different results. That's why I like to have different types of disposable wands, to use on other people, instead of a pack of 50 wands that look (and do) the same.

In terms of the formula, I really don't like the ones that get so thick, that you can't even see the shape of the bristles. So, I waited a month or two to purchase it, just to make sure and see how it dried out on the store tester. Needless to say, it was perfect. This formula kind of reminds me of the Benefit BADgal Lash, which I really, really like.
I would say though, this is one of those that are harder to take off at the end of the day. So, if you're not cleansing properly, you should start doing it — as in, the type of cleanser that you remove with a face cloth.
One of the benefits of this product is that it really holds the curl during the day. I find that it looks the same after 10 hours of wear, and it doesn't flake. The brush allows you to reach the base of the lashes really closely, and grabs even those fine and short ones, without messing up the lid — great if you're wearing a light eyeshadow. Use the curved side up to do this.
You'll be surprised by how well it works with just one coat. Seriously, it provides instant volume. *Adding it to the top five list*. Diorshow Iconic Overcurl mascara is available in three shades: Over Brun 694, Over Bleu 264 and Over Black 090 — which is the one I've got.

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Essentials | Make-up brushes

This is part two of a post focusing on make-up essentials. You can read part one here — it's all about make-up products.
In this part, I'll give examples of make-up brushes that can be used on different areas of the face, and to apply different types of products. With this little kit you can achieve pretty much any (wearable) look. Basically, a guide for someone who doesn't really own many brushes — if any — and might find the whole thing confusing and the massive product offering overwhelming. If this is your case, keep on reading...
Let's start with the face. You'll need some kind of buffing brush to easily apply any kind of base. Tinted moisturizers, BB creams, foundations — wether they are liquid, cream or powder ones. Achieve a perfect airbrushed effect with this tool. Many brands, like Sigma, do very good ones. My favourite is the Real Techniques Buffing Brush (or the Expert Face Brush), which has really soft synthetic taklon bristles. I also find this type of brush ideal to apply blusher, bronzer and contouring or highlighting products. Every colour (and texture) becomes seamlessly blended, so that you can't really tell where one begins and ends. If the brush diameter is too big to use on a small area, apply the product on the tip and use the rest of the bristles to blend. Or try the Contour Brush, since you have it already — it comes in the same collection as the Buffing Brush.
Next, is the renowned MAC 217 Blending Brush. This is the eye brush to have in your collection. If you think that those YouTube make-up tutorials on smokey eyes are hard to achieve in real life, you're wrong. This brush does all the work for you. Trust me. Also, great to blend concealer seamlessly or to contour/highlight small areas, like the nose. If you find it too big to apply colour under the eyes or close to the lashline, invest in a MAC 219 Pencil Brush. Ideal to smudge liner around the eyes, to cover very small spots, or fill in sparse brows. To define them, it's best to opt for a slanted brush like the 208 Angled Brow Brush, which is also great to line the eyes.
Lastly, a soft brush like the Japonesque Pro Eye Shadow Fluff Brush Large is ideal to apply an all over lid colour, to blend on the crease or to set the make-up with powder — on the T-zone, under the eyes and other concealed areas, leaving the cheeks dewy, for a more natural and radiant look.
When completing this make-up essentials kit, you can finally have some fun on your next shopping trips and try out something new and fun. Some bright fuchsia lipstick, perhaps?

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Essentials | Make-up Products

This is the first part of a two part post. It's basically about make-up essentials, either for a beginner who doesn't know what to get, or for someone who might be a bit overwhelmed by all the offerings and can't decide where to splurge. This part will focus on actual make-up products and the next one is all about the brushes.

Starting with the face, everyone can benefit from a light coverage foundation or a tinted moisturizer. Doesn't matter if you have clear skin or some spots, you absolutely want your skin to show through — and actually look like skin, not a mask. You can always go back with a good concealer and cover just those little spots or discolorations. Of course, the finish of this base should apply to your skin type — more of a dewy/radiant finish for dry ones or a matte finish for oily types.
A good option is something like MAC Face And Body Foundation (the image above shows the shade C5). It has a natural (but buildable) coverage and works well on most skin types. It's water-based, so you have to shake it well before opening the bottle. Blends easily into the skin and can be used on the body, as well.
Next, a concealer that works on the "imperfections" you're trying to cover. So if you're only concerned about under eye circles, invest in a more emollient formula that doesn't dry out and has that brightening peachy-pink tone. Now, if your main concern is spots, then invest in a high coverage concealer that doesn't move too much. Something like the Urban Decay 24/7 Concealer Pencil (shown in NSA) works really well on covering spots — and under eye circles too, actually. Besides, it stays put all day.

A good, brightening pink toned blusher is an absolute essential for anyone. Of course, you can vary the shade of pink according to the skin tone. The picture above shows the sheer powder formula of the Burberry Light Glow in Peony Blush No. 04, which I reviewed here (make sure to check the others, too).
If your skin gets oily during the day, even if it's just on the T-zone, invest on a good mattifying powder that doesn't cake up. Set your make-up when you first apply it, then carry a compact version to touch up on the go. There are many good offers, both on the high street and on high-end brands. An all time favourite of mine is the Chanel Natural Finish Loose/Compact Powder. If you choose one, go for the compact, since it's more practical (mine is in the shade 30 Naturel).
Another optional product is an eyebrow filler. This could be a pen, pencil, eyeshadow or gel. Bare in mind that unless you're a redhead, the shade should be on the cooler side (greige, taupe) and matte. Now, if you're blessed with perfect Cara-like brows, this is not a necessity. But, if on the other hand, you suffer from those cheeky little gaps, then something like the Dior Powder Eyebrow Pencil could be your friend.

A matte, nude-toned eyeshadow always comes in handy to neutralize the eyelids or to help blend other colours. The image above shows the Make Up For Ever Matte Eye Shadow in 76 - Beige. The Urban Decay Naked/Naked 2 Palettes have really good ones, too — Foxy, Naked or Buck.
An eyeliner in brown, black or plum always comes in handy. Make Up For Ever and Urban Decay make really good waterproof versions that don't move during the day. The Yves Saint Laurent Long-Lasting Eye Pencil comes in many colours and has a sponge tip on the opposite side of the pencil, that helps to achieve a smokey look on the go. Why not?
The next step makes all the difference: mascara. A good mascara that provides volume and length to the lashes, really helps to define and open up the eyes. I've been loving the Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara in Over Black 090, lately — review coming up soon.

For lips, go for something moisturizing that provides a sheer amount of colour. The Clinique Chubby Sticks are very practical, or, just an everyday nude, Kat Von D Painted Love Lipstick in Lolita, which is a dusty rose. Lovely.
Make-up arsenal complete! Now, add these suggestions to your mental shopping list and check them out the next time you pass a beauty counter.

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Current blusher love

Today's post will focus solely on blushers, more specifically, my all time favourites — up until now.

Between creams, powders, bright hues, contour shades, matte or glowing formulations, I'm pretty sure there's something to please everyone. 

I'll start with a product that was featured in previous posts: MAC Powder Blush in Harmony. This is one of those shades that doesn't seem very appealing at first sight, but it is a staple for sure. Sometimes, it's hard to find the perfect contour shade — it's too warm toned, too shimmery or too dark. But this is the perfect shade, really. A rose-beige brown that's cool toned without being ashy or dirty looking. And you can use it (more sparingly) on lighter skin tones. I really want to try out Illamasqua Cream Pigment in Hollow — again, a strange colour that works really well for contour. 

The next blusher is a fun, girly and bright option, that provides a fresh looking complexion. Too Faced Full Bloom Cheek & Lip Colour (in Prim & Poppy) is a cream blusher that you can use on the cheeks or the lips, to give a healthy glow. This shade is a warm coral and the texture is really smooth, sheer and easy to blend. I like to apply it with the Real Techniques Contour Brush, for precision.

Unlike many other cheek and lip creams, this actually feels nice on the lips. And the packaging is really charming, with a black adorned lid and a mirror inside. I also want to try the other shades (Tea Rose and Sweet Pea).

I'm following with another bright hued cream blusher, the Topshop Blush in Prime Time. A vivid blue-ish pink that really brightens the whole complexion. I love using this during the winter months, when my skin is more dull, as I feel it provides a luminous and radiant look. It's really easy to blend, either with fingers or a brush, like the Real Techniques Buffing Brush — this really does it all, doesn't it?

The perfect blusher to use on top of it, or to wear on it's own, is the Burberry Light Glow in Peony Blush No. 04. This is one of those shades/formulations that allow you to apply it quickly and without a mirror. Seriously. And the rose scent just surprises me everytime. Love it! I won't even mention the gorgeous case, because you might start to get the idea that I fall for packaging, and honestly... I do. By the way, the brush it comes with is quite good and practical.

Last, but definitely not least, is the Benefit Sugarbomb Sugar Rush Flush Face Powder — could the name be any longer? This is one of those items that I forgot I had, because I was trying something new at the time. Then, I rediscovered it a few months ago and have been using it almost every day since. The box has four colours — peach, soft plum, shimmering pink and rose — that you can mix together or use separately. I like using it to connect the contour with the highlight, making it all seamless. The natural bristle brush is quite good to apply and blend on the go. Again, one of those products that you can apply without a mirror. Mine is nearly finished, as you can tell by the photo, but it's been like this for a couple of weeks now. It may be a while before it pops up on an "Empties" post. At least, I hope so.

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Review | Clinique Chubby Stick Intense

I finally got my hands on a Clinique Chubby Stick Intense last month, when I was supposed to be shopping for a birthday present instead. Makes sense, right?

(Wearing as a stain)


So, this is a moisturizing lip colour balm, like the original Chubby Stick, only much more pigmented. After a long deliberation, I got the shade Roomiest Rose, a dark berry rose which is more vibrant than it shows on Clinique's website. One layer is enough to provide a nice colour pay-off, though it's possible to build it up, resulting in a more opaque and shiny finish.
Obviously that, being a balm, it doesn't last all day — up to three or four hours — so it's essential to carry it around. Having the same crayon-like packaging and moisturizing properties, it continues to be very practical and can be applied on the go. But, since it has a higher coverage, you should check in the mirror just to make sure it's in place — especially if you're not great at applying lipstick.
The formula with shea butter, jojoba seed butter and mango seed butter remains very nourishing and comfortable to wear. I'm desperately trying to preserve the pointy tip on this one, because I think it really helps with this kind of (more) pigmented lip products. We'll see how that goes. Meanwhile, I need to get more shades, starting with Mightiest Marachino. And Grandest Grape.
I'd say this is ideal for someone who might be scared of super opaque and bold matte lipsticks, but wants to wear a bit of colour on the lips.
I'm just hoping to see the colour range grow — I'd love to get a perfect peach that's not too orange, nor too pink.

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