I’m Judge Makeup Tips and I’m about to bust you for believing one of the biggest beauty myth’s out; now you have the right to buy a clear mascara.
“Every night I rub a little Vaseline on my eyelashes, it makes them sooo much longer!” she said. Vaseline = Petroleum Jelly = Petrol by product. Today we shall be addressing the case of Petroleum Jelly on the eyelashes to “Help promote growth and make the lashes longer and thicker” aka a huge myth. Many people seem to be under the impression that Vaseline makes their eyelashes longer and thicker which isn’t true. Whilst Vaseline does appear to make the lashes appear longer and thicker (simply because it coats the lashes making them look glossy and reflect light, and sort of goops them together) it doesn’t make them grow. In fact in some cases it does the exact opposite - stunt growth. It often causes eye irritation and in some severe cases blindness. Instead use a gentle eye makeup remover (I like Bioderma Crealine) and apply a tiny amount of olive oil onto your lashes with a clean mascara wand/spoolie. If you love the glossy look Vaseline gives get yourself a clear mascara.
BEAUTY MYTH: BUSTED! Vaseline won’t make your eyelashes grow, case dismissed.
In case you haven’t seen already, check out the blog! Makeup Tips has had a makeover. I hope you all love the new theme (a huge thanks to Megan for creating it for me!)
I’ve also added a new page (called pages) that lists all the reviews and how to guides that this blog contains.
I’m not a lip-gloss fan. Yes you read me right, I don’t like lip-glosses. Give me a gorgeous lipstick, lip stain or tinted lip balm any day over a shiny gloss. I dislike the look most of them give, the fact that they lack pigmentation but mainly that they feel uncomfortable on the lips. When I do stumble across a lip-gloss I don’t hate it is pretty shocking.
The packaging is much like your standard lip-gloss but of course with that gorgeous Dior edge that makes you feel like a million bucks when you use it or pull it out in public. (The packaging kind of makes me think of the 1965 Sitcom I Dream of Jeannie) I generally prefer lip-glosses in squeeze tubes as they are more hygienic but I can deal with that minor flaw.
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Dior Addict Gloss from left to right: 643 Diablotine, 433 Dèlice, 553 Princess and 343 Spring Ball.
Dior claims these lip-glosses contain crystalline particles which means that the microbeads in the lip-glosses line up to give the lip-glosses ultimate reflection and make the lips “shine like a mirror” giving them a strong, bold shine. I don’t necessarily think these lip-glosses make my lips shinier than any other lip-gloss. They also claim the lip-glosses contain hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate the lips. I did notice these hydrated my very sensitive and dry lips really well unlike most lip-glosses which usually leave my lips dry, peeling and irritated. I don’t know about plumping but my lips did look a little larger but that’s probably because of the light reflecting properties.
The recently reformulated lip-glosses now come in 24 shades with three different finishes; sparkling, pearly and pure. Glitter, shimmer and frosty finishes are just a few of the things I don’t like in my lip products. Cream, satin and matte are my preferred option or you can end up looking a little ’80s. The shades that I was sent are from the “Be Iconic” collection they are sparkling finishes and I found them way too glittery for my liking. If glitters not your thing, give the four shades a miss.
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Dior Addict Gloss Lip Swatches from left to right: 643 Diablotine (Sparkling Melon Pink) 433 Dèlice (Sparkling Peach)553 Princess (Sparkling Carnation Pink) and 343 Spring Ball (Sparkling Peachy Pink)
Pigmentation wise, they aren’t going to give you intense colour pay off, in fact they’ll give you barely any colour pay off at all. Most of the shades look identical on the lips so I don’t think there is a need to buy all four. Diablotine has some pigment and colour to it but the rest apply very sheer, which is somewhat disappointing but then again if I wanted a strong pigment I’d go for a lipstick, not a gloss.
The formula is spot on. Not sticky just smooth, creamy and hydrating aka what I look for in a gloss. It doesn’t settle into lip lines or cling onto dry patches (which I have many of) and applies super smooth and evenly. It can be worn alone or over lipstick (if the later you will want to clean the brush after application or it will change the colour of the product)
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Dior Addict Gloss Swatches from left to right: 643 Diablotine, 433 Dèlice, 553 Princess and 343 Spring Ball.
These feel comfortable on the lips and I don’t find myself wanting to wipe them off ten minutes after application. I usually avoid lip-glosses because I find they are usually very sticky and uncomfortable feeling. These however feel light, hydrating and smooth.
The staying power is quite good which to me is surprising since these aren’t sticky. I’d say they last around 2 hours on the lips (with drinking but not eating) which is great for a lgloss and I’m happy to reapply after a few hours. The shine slowly fades as does the colour and you are left with the intense shimmer/glitter which I must admit looks a little gross!
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Dior Addict Gloss Brush Applicator in 643 Diablotine.
I quite like the applicator; it’s a brush which I tend to prefer over the doe foot applicators that most lip-glosses have. The small, tapered brush holds the perfect amount of product to cover your whole lips and works well. My only complaint is that on application one of the brushes did lose a bristle.
Overall, I like these. I’m probably never going to go crazy over lip-glosses but the Dior Addict Range of glosses has become one of my favourites and hey I might actually occasionally wear lip-gloss now. If I were to purchase them I’d go for the pure or pearly finishes as opposed to the sparkling.
The Dior Addict Glosses can be purchased in Australia from Dior Counters in select Myer & David Jones for $59. In the US at Sephora and Dior Counters for $29.50. In the UK for £22.00 at Boots & Dior Counters at select House of Frazer stores and Debenhams. Live somewhere else? Find stockists.
*This post contains a product/sample which was sent to me for editorial consideration in accordance with my disclosure policy. This does not alter the honesty of this review or this blog, all opinions stated are honest and my own.
pro-zac said: What makeup products are your go-to? Like the ones you always go back to?
I’m testing out a new product almost every single day but I still have my ultimate favourites that I go back to. These are the products that if I need my makeup to look perfect I go to them.
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Smashbox Photo Finish Oil Free Primer
My FAVOURITE primer. I recommend and rave about it to anyone that will listen. It smooths out the skin filling in fine lines, scars and pores but most importantly it keeps your makeup ON. That stuff isn’t going nowhere!
Bobbi Brown Luminous Moisturising Foundation
HG status, that is what this is. All-time favourite foundation, expensive but oh so worth it. It gives great coverage, is super hydrating and very luminous, exactly what I love in my foundations. Only use it if you have very dry skin though or you’ll look like a greasy piece of KFC chicken.
Bobbi Brown does my favourite face products and I love the creamy concealer; it is perfect for concealing dark circles and I mean PERFECT. Maybelline’s fit me concealer comes so close though I love it and swear by it just as much, plus it can be used to conceal everything, not just dark circles like Bobbi Brown’s (Which is too hydrating for pimples) I always mix my concealer in with a little orange lipstick when I am concealing under the eyes as it corrects darkness.
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Benefit High Beam
Illuminators are one of my guilty pleasures and I haven’t really ever come across one that I don’t like but I still always find myself coming back to this one.
Kit Cosmetics Cheek/Lip Duo.
I’ve hit pan and would absolutely repurchase. It is creamy, pigmented and just everything you want in a cream blush. Not available outside of Australia and NZ so my second best is Stila Convertible Color.
Maybelline Shine-Free Translucent powder.
Has been my go-to for years on end. Sets makeup well, not cakey and keeps skin matte. A basic item but sometimes basic is best.
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Benefit Hoola Bronzer
Perfect bronzer. Yet to find one that I love anywhere near as much. Matte, not orange and perfect for fair skin.
NARS Smudge Proof Pro Prime
I have the oiliest eyelids in the world. EVERYTHING and I mean EVERYTHING creases on me. So far glitter glue has been on the only thing that has worked but I don’t like how unevenly it makes eye-shadows apply. NARS eyelid primer works exceptional though. It doesn’t keep my eye makeup on all day but it does keep it in place for around 6 hours which is a rare occurrence for me.
Urban Decay Naked Palette
No brainer really. Practically everyone in the beauty world raves about this and you can’t blame them. Shades are pigmented, blend well, soft but minimal fall out and everything about the shadows are just perfect.
Has been my favourite eyeliner for over a year. (But Too Faced Three Way Lining Lash Tool comes pretty damn close) Super creamy, doesn’t dry out, highly pigmented and fantastic staying power, this stuff doesn’t budge.
Smashbox Hyperlash Mascara
Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.Doesn’t get enough hype (pun intended) Best mascara. Not clumpy, not dry, not too wet, not goopy just perfect. Gives good length and volume in just one coat but can be built up so you get almost fake looking lashes. Literally makes you look like you have a thousand lashes. Also love Benefit They’re real but it can look a little clumpy.
Essence Eyebrow Stylist
Move over Benefit Brow Zings and Urban Decay Brow Box. This stuff = perfect, especially for the price. The shades are matte, pigmented and cool toned plus it is super cheap. Downsides are the packaging and the fact that only one shade is available.
YSL Glossy Stains
Favourite lip product of all time, at one point it was my favourite product, period. These just do everything you want in a lip product. Have great pigmentation, AMAZING staying power and are the perfect amount of glossy without looking like you are drooling.
I hope I helped you and if you need anything else feel free to ask.
If any product you use irritates you discontinue use immediately.
Long air-flights, taxi’s, public transport and hotels are all usually a sign that you are traveling for more than a weekend get away. These turn of events can make you feel and look pretty shocking! We can’t all take our whole beauty collections with us when traveling so here are a few tips so you still look fresh faced.
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I usually pack my products in my *Tender Love + Carry Topiary folding pouch because it fits in my suitcase well and holds a lot for the size. It contains two zip sections that are plastic and waterproof which means I can keep my skincare + makeup separate and leaking isn’t a serious problem. The products I take are beside the essential body wash, shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, etc are:
Skin/body: Nude Skincare Perfect Cleansing Oil, *Argania Hair Oil, Origins Gin Zing eye cream, U Little Beauty Night Cream, Bioderma Crealine H20, Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse, Nude Skincare Progenius oil, *Urban Rituelle Cotton Candy Perfume and Lanolips Golden Ointment (not pictured)
Makeup:Urban Decay Naked Palette, NARS Smudge Proof Pro Prime, Benefit Hoola Bronzer & High Beam, MAC Lipstick in Honey Love, Smashbox Photofinish Oil Free Primer & Hyperlash Mascara, *Missha Perfect Cover BB Cream, Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer, Too Faced Three Way lining lash tool. Nail Polish remover pads, Revlon box o files, Sally Hansen Quick Colour Pen (better than a bottle of nail polish as they are less prone to leaking) and Urban Decay Brow Box (not pictured)
Sample size:
Ask your local beauty counter for some samples or buy travel size items. “Try it” kit’s from a brand like Benefit, Too Faced or Smashbox; these come in sample size and are much more convenient for traveling than lugging along your full size product. Otherwise buy some travel containers (or bead jars) and fill them up with your product. For perfumes and oils I prefer to take pre-packaged travel sizes as they are often prone to leaking. I recommend you leave your loose powders at home and take pressed powders instead (bonus points if they are packaged in cardboard which absorbs shock, meaning no broken products!) Should any powders break you can use this method to fix them. I also like to take products that can double up like lipstick as cream blush, bronzer as eyeshadow, etc.
Chlorine:
If you aren’t the proud owner of a swimming pool or hot tub/spa bath/jacuzzi and are staying at a hotel that has one chances are that you’ll probably go for a dip or two. These are overly chlorinated to kill all the germs and can take a negative toll on your skin and hair so make sure to take a quick shower after your swim and wash all that chlorine out of your hair + pop in a hydrating mask and slather on your body lotion.
Climate:
Wherever you’re traveling off to will probably have a different climate than you (and your skin!) are used to, if it’s a tropical destination make sure to pack the highest SPF you own and don’t bring your most super charged extra hydrating products, a chilly climate? The heating can dry out your skin so make sure to pack a little something extra to give it that bit of hydration it needs.
Hydration:
If you are traveling by plane be sure to take some great hydrating skincare. The recycled air in airplanes can dry out your skin making it look dry and haggard. I take a great hydrating serum, Nude Skincare Pro Genius or Nuxe Skin Oil and Lanolips Golden Ointment to use on really dry skin, the cuticles and lips.
Tap Water:
Cleansing your skin is super important and even more so when you are traveling as your skin is subject to more and different environmental pollution so a good cleanser is obviously a must. (I take Nude Skincare Perfect Cleansing Oil because it is hydrating and removes eye and face makeup) However when you do cleanse ditch the tap water; It is filled with chlorine, fluoride and loads of other different chemicals and every place filters there water differently (if they filter it at all) so try cleansing your skin with bottled water instead.
Beauty Sleep:
There is nothing like the comfort of your own bed and we all need to get a good night’s sleep so we can go off and explore the next day so pack a sleeping mask and your best brightening eye cream. I always travel with my Origins Gin Zing eye cream because well, damn that stuff is hydrating and so brightening that I can even get away without concealer on some days.
Don’t forget to abide by travel regulations if traveling by plane! Different countries and different airlines have differences in regulations so I recommend having a quick check online.
*This post contains a product/sample which was sent to me for editorial consideration (products are marked with *) in accordance with my disclosure policy, this does not alter the honesty of this review or the blog, all opinions stated are honest and my own.
I’m Judge Makeup Tips and I’m about to bust you for believing one of the biggest beauty myth’s out; you now have the right to eat chocolate.
“I really want to eat chocolate but it causes acne…” she said. Sometimes when I hear someone talk about a beauty tip which they believe to be true; I squirm a little and ask myself (and them!) “Where on Earth did you hear that?” In this case it is the Pizza Face theory which says your diet has a direct effect on your skin. Whilst in some cases according to some dermatologists & doctors this is true (IE: too much sugar which can cause inflammation, resulting in pimples) a vast majority of the time it isn’t. Chocolate doesn’t cause acne but it is still best to eat healthy foods in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle. (Bonus points if you eat high quality, dark chocolate which is full of antioxidants unlike white and milk)
BEAUTY MYTH: BUSTED! Chocolate doesn’t cause acne, case dismissed.
Over 2 years ago when I started Makeup Tips I would of never thought I would end up with 5, 10 or even 50 followers never-lone 500,000 followers!
I honestly can’t believe it and it is way too hard to comprehend and to think that every single 500,000 of you have a life of your own but still take the time to follow and support Makeup Tips. I can’t even begin to explain how much I appreciate the support, love and kindness from you all.
If it wasn’t for you all I wouldn’t have the knowledge, confidence and ability I do today as I probably would of given up a very long time ago. I would of never got the opportunity to contribute to the Huffington Post Blog, be followed by HUGE international stores like Sephora and I certainly wouldn’t of gotten the opportunity to go to Sydney to attend beauty events & awards.
Thank you all so much, once again I appreciate every single one of you even if you don’t think it! I love helping each and every single one of you with everything makeup related! Your kind and encouraging messages are what keep me motivated. I couldn’t do it without you!
I mean like half a million followers? That’s insane! I’ll probably never meet that many people in my life time, you all wouldn’t even fit into a football stadium!
They were the product on everyone’s face, on the pages of every magazine and they were the product that every beauty editor loved and now they’re back! The Revlon Skinlights Illuminators were an avid favourite for beauty lovers across the world and when they got discontinued back in 2007 just about everyone who was a lover bought as many as they could and basically stock piled on them. They were so incredibly popular that they now cost as much as a whopping $170 on ebay. Say hello to the new version, the Revlon PhotoReady Skinlights Illuminators. If you are unsure of how to apply illuminator & what it is make sure to check out the how to guide!
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Revlon PhotoReady Skinlights Illuminators from left to right: 400 Bronze Light, 200 Pink Light and 100 Bare Light
Drugstore brands really tend to lack in the illumination department and if you want one you usually have to go the high end route. Whilst a few drugstore brands do them it is always great to have variety.
The shimmer in these is nice, perhaps a little too much shimmer for my liking and not as fine as I would love but it isn’t bad and it still works well at achieving my desired effect. The shimmer catches light perfectly, giving you supermodel looking cheekbones.
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Revlon PhotoReady Skinlights Illuminator Swatchesfrom left to right: 400 Bronze Light, 200 Pink Light and 100 Bare Light. Top: unblended, bottom: blended.
What I completely adore about these illuminators is that they come in three shades. Unlike many brands which have a “one shade fits all” theory these come in 400 Bronze Light (great for darker skin tones, much like NARS Laguna Illuminator, 200 Pink Light (beautiful on fair skin, just a touch pinker than Benefit High Beam) and 100 Bare Light (great for all skin-tones, especially medium skin)
The formula is a liquid which is super light and liquidy (maybe a little too runny) I much prefer it over cream and powder formulas. It is the perfect formula for blending in with liquid foundations to give a little extra glow (I LOVE to mix a little of bronze light in with foundations that are a wee bit light for me)
Thanks to the liquid formula these blend in to the skin with absolute ease and give you that gorgeous glowy effect without being too subtle or too over the top. The formula doesn’t cake, turn oily or cling onto dry spots I should know; I have a eczema spot on my cheekbone that most illuminators and highlighters accentuate it like crazy, but not this one!
The packaging isn’t the best… Whilst you get quite bit of product (unlike Rimmel Wake Me Up illuminators) and the packaging looks uber chic it isn’t the most practical. Unfortunately if you just hold the product with the lid off and apply no pressure to the tube product will drip out so it is absolutely essential you put the lid on at any time you aren’t using it. It could be because the formula is so runny but I think this is more so a packaging fault if anything, I always end up dispensing far more than I need.
Overall these are great and I really can’t find anything major to fault them (besides the packaging) They blend so effortlessly, look gorgeous on the skin and have a great shade range. Highly recommended to anyone who is on a budget but still wants gorgeous glowy skin or is just an illuminator lover like me.
Revlon PhotoReady Skinlights Illuminators are available in Australia for $29.95 from Priceline, most major department stores and select pharmacies. £11.99 in the United Kingdom from Boots and Superdrug (only 400 Bronze Light and 200 Pink Light are sold) To my knowledge they are not currently available in the United States (so annoying!) but should I hear about a release date I’ll post it here.
*This post contains a product/sample which was sent to me for editorial consideration in accordance with my disclosure policy. This does not alter the honesty of this review or this blog, all opinions stated are honest and my own.
digon91 said: Hi there, first of all I love your blog! I have oily/combination skin and I normally cleanse, moisturize and then use a spot treatment as part of my skin care routine before I apply make-up. Where in my routine would I apply primer? Thanks in advance!
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What order to put on your products can be a confusing topic so I’ll walk you through it.
Cleanser: before makeup cleansing is essential to remove any build up of products, dirts and oils on the skin. In the evenings you should cleanse twice if you’ve been wearing makeup but in the mornings once will be enough. If you are feeling lazy you can just use a face wipe or a cleansing water in the mornings. Directly after cleansing is where a toner will be used if you use one.
Treatment: Treatment ALWAYS goes before moisturiser, never after otherwise they won’t be as effective. Whether it is a serum, spot treatment or eye cream you are using put this on after cleansing and before moisturising.
Moisturiser: always after cleansing and applying a treatment, it is the heaviest out of all these products and is designed to maintain moisture in the skin rather than treat it.
SPF: Only during the day time, if you aren’t using a moisturiser with SPF in it you need to apply a specific SPF after (in which case, why aren’t you using a moisturiser with SPF you silly, you)
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Primer: Your primer goes after all your skincare products and before all your makeup products. It’ll increase staying power because of the silicons and make your makeup go on a heck of a lot smoother.
Foundation: Next of all goes your foundation which will basically provide a base for all your colour products and even out your skin-tone.
Concealer: Hundreds of people get confused with this. Concealer always goes after foundation unless you are colour correcting. If you apply it before foundation it’ll just rub off, plus foundations usually cover most minor imperfections anyway.
Next of all your contouring/bronzing, illuminating and blushing! Finish it off with a lip colour. As for eye makeup I highly recommend applying your eye makeup BEFORE you apply your face makeup so that eyeshadow fall out doesn’t ruin your base.
Also: It is very important that you allow each product to absorb in-between steps, otherwise this can result in patchy makeup. I like to allow at-least 2 minutes for each product to absorb, if you are impatient you can take 1 ply of tissue and gently blot off any excess product.
I hope I helped you and if you need anything else feel free to ask.
If any product you use irritates you discontinue use immediately.
“How do I make my makeup last all day?” It is the million dollar question that every makeup-wearer has asked at-least once in their life and today I’m going to give you the answer. Makeup that has faded, oxidized or gone patchy doesn’t really do a great job at enhancing your best assets so use these tips to keep your face makeup staying put for at-least 6 hours…
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Prep:
Skincare is one of the most important steps in makeup. Without good skin you can’t have great makeup. So cleanse and follow up with a good day cream prior to makeup (I love *Sukin Rosehip Hydrating Day Cream, it makes my makeup glide on extra smooth!) application. I personally don’t like to use a toner and serum before makeup because I find they take a little too long when I’m in a rush and that too much skincare can cause makeup to slide off.
Prime:
No a primer isn’t just one of those useless products that companies are trying to scam you into buying; a primer is a god send. They come in several different formulas depending on your concerns (green for redness, illuminating, moisturising, mattifying, resurfacing etc.) but my pick is to go with a simple, silicone based primer which will work for just about anybody. They fill in the pores to smooth out your skin making your makeup last, whilst also making your makeup glide on smoother and resulting in the need for less foundation. My holy grail is Smashbox Photo Finish Oil Free Primer, I’ve been using it for two years and no other primer in the world has come close to the amazing results it gives.
Stay put:
Long wearing formulas are a no-brainer; where possible opt for products which are specifically designed for longevity. I love the Revlon Colorstay range but Rimmel, Maybelline and L’Oreal also do their own versions. High end brands like Estee Lauder and MAC are also well known for having great long-wearing ranges.
Set:
I’m not the biggest fan of powders. I find they often tend to look chalky and unnatural on the skin but they can really help at keeping your makeup on. In makeup we have a general rule that powder goes on-top of cream products to set it. Try using powder just in the t-zone and applying it with a powder puff rather than a brush which can apply powder unevenly. I like Maybelline Shine Free Loose Powder and Essence All About Matt! Finishing Compact Powder.
Spray:
If you aren’t a fan of powders or just really want to ensure your makeup stays in place a setting spray is the next best thing. My favourites are *Model In a Bottle Makeup Setting Spray (does have a strong fragrance, just be warned!) and *Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray. ELF does a more budget friendly alternative, whilst Urban Decay is known for using the same formula as Skindinavia.
Troubleshooting….
Patchy makeup? You probably aren’t letting your makeup absorb for long enough; this can cause your makeup to become patchy whether you use a primer or not. Allow at-least one minute for each layer of product to absorb before you proceed with the next step. If you are lazy you can blot off in-between each step with a tissue but I usually fill the time gaps by curling my lashes, doing my eyebrows, etc. Exfoliating can also be especially helpful.
Makeup still fading even though you used a primer? If you have oily skin it could be because your skin has too much slip/hydration to it. Try skipping your moisturiser and instead use a moisturising primer that has at-least SPF 25. You could also be using too much makeup, which can cause your makeup to slide off so remember the rule - less is always more.
Concealer creasing? Instead of using a heavy eye cream designed to treat the eye area; use a light, brightening eye cream instead (my fave is Origins Gin Zing Eye Cream) and make sure you allow it to fully absorb. Apply your concealer after your foundation and set it with powder.
Long-lasting products making your skin look dry? Try exfoliating twice a week (if you aren’t already) and use a hydrating primer. Long wearing foundations can make the skin look dry so try mixing a little moisturiser or illuminator with it to give a healthy glow. Many brands also do setting sprays that give a dewy finish to the skin.
Foundation oxidizing? There isn’t too much you can do, unfortunately some foundations are just born to oxidize but you can try using a mattifying or a silicon based primer before application as oxidizing happens when ingredients in the foundation react with the oils/pH balance of your skin.
*This post contains a product/sample which was sent to me for editorial consideration (products are marked with *) in accordance with my disclosure policy, This does not alter the honesty of this post or this blog, all opinions stated are honest and my own.
I don’t know about you but I don’t feel like myself if I don’t have some kind of beauty product on my lips, almost like I’m naked. So it only makes sense for me to review one of my favourite, holy grail even lip products. I bring you YSL Glossy Stains or if you wanna be all fancy Yves Saint Laurent ROUGE PUR COUTURE Vernis À Lèvres Glossy Stain.
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YSL Glossy Stainsfrom left to right:17 Encre Rose, 13 Rose Tempura
The packaging is true to YSL form. Luxurious, gorgeous and classy. AKA it makes you feel like a million bucks when you use it and you feel like you’re an “it” girl. The clear rectangle on the product allows me to easily see what shade I am using and how much I have got left.
YSL claims these offer “a lightweight texture, which immediately melts onto lips” and that they deliver “intense glossy color for an extremely long-lasting shine” can I stand by those claims? Oh yes I can.
The formula is everything you want in a lip product and it is a perfect hybrid of a gloss, stain and lipstick. Just the right amount of gloss so your lips don’t look dry, just the right amount of stain so that it lasts all day and the perfect amount of lipstick so that the colour looks rich and luxurious. The formula isn’t sticky or drying which means ultra comfortable wear.
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YSL Glossy Stain lip swatches from left to right: 17 Encre Rose (a cool toned, baby pink) and 13 Rose Tempura (the most beautiful and unique shade ever, falls somewhere in-between a red, coral and pink)
In terms of application these apply evenly…well sort of. The brighter, bolder shades apply beautifully, no uneven patches of colour, no clinging onto dry patches and no fault of any kind. The lighter, more natural shades however seem to apply quite unevenly which is a let down. Shade number 17 (Encre Rose) is a baby pink which I’d been wanting to try for ages but the application is no where near as great as 13 Rose Tempura.
To some people the shade range might look a little odd, not your typical lip colours but to me that is a good thing. The shades are unique which means some of them flatter you like no other and if you are a beauty addict like me it means you won’t have too many similar colours in your collection. I’ve noticed that every country has a different number of shades some of which are limited edition so lets just go with saying there is a decent selection of colours.
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YSL Glossy Stain swatchesfrom left to right:17 Encre Rose, 13 Rose Tempura
In terms of pigmentation, again it is sort of a hit and a miss like the application. The bolder shades seem to have gorgeous, intense pigmentation in just one coat. The lighter, more natural shades are quite sheer and usually require around 4 applications until you get a good amount of colour pay off which to me is a lot of effort for one lip product.
The staying power is fantastic and to be perfectly honest I’ve never found a lip product which feels so comfortable on the lips yet still has great staying power. The glossy finish eventually starts to wear down after a few hours but you are left with a gorgeous stain so the colour is still visible. Great for the low maintenance girl who still wants a beautiful lip.
These didn’t dry out or irritate my dry and sensitive lips (which is a common occurrence unfortunately) I do however like to use a lip balm before application of these because I don’t apply anything else onto my lips when I’m wearing these for the day.
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YSL Glossy Stain applicator, 13 Rose Tempura
The applicator to me is the tip of the iceberg, it just makes this product all that more great. It is a doe foot applicator (which I usually hate) but these have these small little soft bristles which means the product glides on with absolute ease (no tugging or dragging here!) plus the slanted applicator means a perfect application every-time.
As for the scent I can’t quite put my finger on it but it is basically identical to the LO’real Color Caresse Wet Shine Stains (which by the way are totally not a dupe for these) except a touch stronger. It’s almost like an expensive wine scent that makes you feel like you’re attending a black-tie dinner party.
The verdict: BUY THEM ALL except the paler, natural shades of course!
These retail for $50 in Australia at YSL counters in select pharmacies, David Jones and Myer stores. $34 in America at Sephora and YSL counters. £23.50 in England at Boots and YSL counters. As you can see these don’t come cheap but in my opinion they are worth it and I have found myself wearing shade 13 for seven days in a row!
*This post contains a product/sample which was sent to me for editorial consideration in accordance with my disclosure policy. This does not alter the honesty of this review or this blog, all opinions stated are honest and my own.I purchased shade 13 Rose Tempura and was sent shade 17 Encre Rose for review.
ddollfacee said: Hey lovely, can you tell me what the point of a toner is like the one you’re meant to rub on your face after cleansing.. What will it do I’ve never used one before? Thank u very much :) xx
Toners can be a confusing subject, there is no lying there. They may seem like another step in your skincare routine and for some people it can be difficult to not only find one to use but to know how to use it to.
Toners aren’t 110% necessary; when I say that I mean if you skip it or simply don’t use one at all you aren’t committing a skin sin (unlike not cleansing or moisturising) but otherwise they can be seriously great! Provided you know how to use it and have a good one suitable for your needs. Toners are pretty simple really they are basically designed to remove any excess cleanser, dirt or makeup that has been left behind after cleansing. It also regulates the pH balance of your skin and temporarily tightens the pores. You’d be surprised how much makeup can still be left on your skin after cleansing.
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The key to picking a toner; is to choose one which is alcohol free and designed to be gentle on the skin. Alcohol based toners can dry out the skin which you may think is fantastic if you have oily skin but it could actually have a reverse effect and cause your skin to overproduce oil to compensate for the oil lost which will just make your skin oilier in the long run! For oily/acne prone skin witch-hazel of a low percentage is a popular option but for other skin types I prefer to go with a hydrating mist which is also a toner. My favourite toners tend to come from natural/organic brands and as I’m in Australia I have large access to them. My favourites are Sukin Hydrating Mist Toner (which is not only budget friendly but also effective, it gets the job done well!) Trilogy also does a version of their own which is a bit more expensive. Tricky to get outside of AUS/NZ so try amazon. However loads of my favourite natural brands do toners in the US (such as Origins, Nude Skincare, Boscia, Burt’s Bees and more!)
Using a toner; is a simple as either spritzing or pouring some onto a cotton pad (or my favourite, Kleenex Facial Cleansing Cloths) and gently wiping it over your skin. Image may be NSFW. Clik here to view.Some toners come with a spritzer, I am not a fan of spritzing the product onto my face and letting it sit there, I find it is not as effective and that I don’t get enough product to do my face & neck. I’m also not a fan of rubbing the skin in order to use a product and if you are doing this I say stop! You are more than free to massage your cleanser into your skin and remove it but for spot treatments, serums and moisturisers I recommend a pressing motion. This allows the product to penetrate better and bonus: it means you don’t have to use as much product!
I hope I helped you and if you need anything else feel free to ask.
In Australia it is no secret that makeup is expensive, very expensive. Want a foundation from a brand like Revlon or L’Oreal? You are looking at anywhere between $30 to $50 and high end brands go for up to a hundred! So when a good deal comes out full of great products for a great pass I can never pass it up. I bring you the Adore Beauty Best of the Best Samplers. If you aren’t an Aussie don’t fret and think this post isn’t relevant to you because it contains mini reviews on all the products, most of which are available globally.
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Adore Beauty Best of the Best Makeup & Skincare Sampler.For $34.95 you get Benefit They’re Real! mascara 3g, Napoleon Perdis Auto Pilot Pre-Foundation primer 15ml, St Tropez Skin Illuminator 30ml (full size), theBalm Hot Mama! 1g Bioderma Crealine 20ml, Lanolips Rose Balm Intense for Very Dry hands 25ml, Philosophy Purity Cleanser 30ml.
Benefit They’re Real!
My second favourite mascara (and believe me I’ve got a lot of them!) this gives you great length and great volume. I’ve been asked whether I’m wearing false lashes whilst I’m wearing this, which to me says great mascara! My only issue is that it is a little clumpy, but I can live with that as the positives far outweigh the negatives.
Napoleon Perdis Auto pilot Pre-foundation Primer
This is kind of an Aussie cult favourite. Although Napoleon Perdis is known for using private label cosmetics there is no denying that this (or the Face Of Australia Face Base Primer which contains identical ingredients) works a treat. It is one of the best moisturising and soothing primers I have tried. It almost acts like a moisturiser (if you have oily skin I would say you could just get away with this) so it makes makeup glide on extra smooth and evenly.
St Tropez Skin Iluminator
The full size retails for $26.95 alone and the one included is full size which makes this value kit, well really great value. This illuminator gives you supermodel runway cheekbones in a heart beat. It easily mixes in with liquid foundation formulas. It does have an iridescent blue tone to it which some people might not like (I don’t mind it to be perfectly honest) but because it blends so well the result is pretty undetectable.
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Swatches from left to right St Tropez Skin Illuminator, theBalm Hot Mama!
theBalm Hot Mama!
theBalm is one of my favourite brands, they seriously don’t get enough credit. I’m a huge fan of the eye-shadows and the Down Boy blush and now I’m a fan of this baby hot mama. The formula is super soft and smooth, but not powdery and blends beautifully into the skin. Hot Mama is a universally flattering peachy pink with just a hint of gold shimmer, much like NARS Orgasm blush. This sample makes it a little hard to use with a brush but it gives you a good chance to test out the product and if you love it enough buy the full size!
I was SO excited to see this in the sampler. I reviewed this a while ago and to this day it is still my favourite holy grail eye makeup remover. This stuff removes every speckle, dot and flake of eye makeup (meaing no raccoon eyes in the morning) and is non irritating. This size will come in super handy for traveling!
Lanolips Rose Balm Intense
As an eczema sufferer for as long as I can remember I’m usually a bit skeptic about products which claim to provide intense hydration but I must admit I was curious about this. I make it a point/standard rule that I only use natural/organic skincare simply because I find it works wonders for the skin, this is made with cruelty free lanolin (so much better for you and your skin than petroleum jelly) and is free of mineral oil, parabens, etc. I’ve used this a few times now and it is doing a fantastic job at soothing my eczema. My hands and elbows get insanely dry and this provides a good burst of hydration, especially in the winter season!
Philosophy Purity Cleanser
After reading the packaging the first thing you would think is, “hey this is natural and free of harsh chemicals!” It even has a smell to it which reminds me of some of my favourite natural skincare products but unfortunately this is quite misleading as the ingredients list contains sulfates, parabens and other harsh chemicals. So whilst I don’t use this on my skin I’ve been finding it works great for brushes; it doesn’t work anywhere near as well as my favourite Masters Brush Cleaner but it works so much better than baby shampoo, dish-washing detergent and hand soap that some people use…
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The bag + free samples, there was also a chocolate Tim Tam too but that is somewhere in my belly ;)
Overall this is fantastic value! I done the math and it equals up to way over $35 value. It gives you a great chance to test out some new (and some of my favourite) products such as Bioderma and They’re real! The sizes of the products are great for your beauty bag whilst traveling and the kit also comes with a 10% off coupon in case you want to purchase any of the products in the pack + a clear makeup bag. There is also a skincare/haircare sampler available. Adore Beauty usually has quick shipping, no pushy sales assistants and free samples with every order!
I much prefer this deal over a sampling service like Bellabox, Birchbox, Glossybox, etc because I found with these subscription services I would only use one or two products and give the rest away to friends because they weren’t suitable for me. With these you know exactly what you are getting!
Available from http://adorebeauty.com.au these will only be around for a limited time only so make sure you get in quick so you don’t miss out!
*This post contains a product/sample which was sent to me for editorial consideration in accordance with my disclosure policy. This does not alter the honesty of this review or this blog, all opinions stated are honest and my own. I was not compensated to write about this I just thought it was a great deal and wanted to share it with you all.
Two posts in one day, oh wow! I just wanted to quickly post and let you all know that I’m in this weeks LOOK Magazine “The International Fashion Issue”. LOOK Magazine is a British magazine so if you are in the UK pick up a copy and read about me and all about what Australian girls love when it comes to beauty! If you aren’t in the UK you can still purchase it on your iPad/iPhone, Tablet, etc. I’m super excited as I’ve now achieved one of my life long dreams - being featured in a magazine!
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Thank you all for your support and encouragement, remember I wouldn’t be able to do any of this without YOU, my readers!
apolkadotnerd said: What black liquid eyeliner would you recommend for someone on a budget (uhm broke >.>) who has a tendency to smudge her make up pretty much everyday? Thanks and I love your blog :)
If you’ve read my blog for a while now you’ll know I’m partial to my Essence Gel Eyeliner but I’ve recently tried a few liquid eyeliners that I actually don’t hate!
*Physicians Formula 2 in 1 Lash Boosting Eyeliner + Serum
Okay so the whole idea of making your lashes longer and thicker with this eyeliner in my opinion is a bit of a gimmick. I’ve been using it for a while now and haven’t seen any amazing changes to my lashes but I have seen some amazing changes as to how I apply my eyeliner. This is quick, easy and well basically just amazing. I don’t know how Physicians Formula done it but dare I say it this is my favourite liquid liner. It gives a super precise, clean line and has the best of both worlds combining a brush and a felt tip applicator into one. It has recently been my go-to for winged eyeliner (so much that I’m doing winged eyeliner everyday now) I’ve worn this for around 8 hours straight and it hasn’t smudged, faded, ran, cracked or done any of them horrible things we know eyeliners are notorious for, it is pretty budge proof. I just wish that is was jet black, I find it isn’t as dark and pigmented as I would like.
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*Australis Curve Ink / NYX “The Curve”
Australis is an Aussie brand which means if you don’t live in AUS it is pretty hard to get your hands on. They seem to draw a lot of their product inspiration from NYX and the Curve Ink is strikingly similar to “The Curve” and by saying strikingly similar I mean they contain the same ingredients list, so I’m guessing they were made in the same factory. I’m seriously loving the precision that these curve eyeliners give. If you suck at eyeliner chances are that this will make your life a heck of a lot easier. It can be a little tricky to create cat eyeliner with but it is amazing for your everyday, upper lash liner. The formula is blacker than Physicians Formula but not as waterproof.
Essence Gel Eyeliner
I know you said liquid but this stuff will always deserve an honorable mention. Pure black, super creamy, super cheap and super staying power. Doesn’t dry out unlike most gel eyeliners and it is overall just fantastic. You just need a brush to apply and you are good to go! Discontinued in Australia but available in every other country that stocks Essence.
As you can see all the eyeliners mentioned are drugstore brands, this isn’t because you asked for cheaper recommendations it is simply because I haven’t found a high end eyeliner I like as much as the drugstore ones!
I hope I helped you and if you need anything else feel free to ask.
*This post contains a product/sample which was sent to me for editorial consideration (products are marked with *) in accordance with my disclosure policy, this does not alter the honesty of this post or this blog, all opinions stated are honest and my own.
I’m Judge Makeup Tips and I’m about to bust you for believing one of the biggest beauty myth’s out; you now have the right to buy a spot treatment.
“Hey! You should try using toothpaste on a pimple the next time you get one! ” she said. The only way I can even think that someone may of come across this is by accidentally getting some toothpaste on a pimple after brushing their teeth. Using toothpaste on pimples as opposed to a proper spot treatment has become a pretty popular beauty tip out there but if you are using it, you probably shouldn’t be. Sure it may of worked once or twice when you got a little curious and let this beauty myth get the better of you but it’ll actually just cause more problems than it solves. Toothpaste contains ingredients that fight plaque, bacteria, gingivitis, bad breathe and all them other teeth related problems. These usually contain a heck of a load of ingredients, like for instance hydrogen peroxide which is in short bleach; It’s also a common ingredient in spot treatments because it can dry out pimples, but toothpaste contains a much higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide than a spot treatment which can irritate the skin. Other ingredients like fluoride which are in most toothpastes can also cause some ugly damage to the skin, like itching, redness, peeling, over-drying, burning, hyper-pigmentation (especially on darker complexions) So use toothpaste on a toothbrush to brush your teeth, not on your skin to get rid of pimples. Instead opt for a spot treatment, I like tea tree oil.
BEAUTY MYTH: BUSTED! Toothpaste on pimples causes more problems than it solves., case dismissed.
Cat eyeliner, winged eyeliner, feline flick, they’re all the same and they’re always in style. Winged eyeliner will forever be my favourite eyeliner look of all time. It’s classic and the perfect combination of a statement that is still subtle. It goes with every lip colour under the sun, whether it be a bold red or a nude lip and just looks beautiful (if done right!) Once you get it down pat you’ll see why I (and everyone else) love it so damn much. This how to will show you a winged eyeliner that flatters all shapes, we all know winged eyeliner is tricky enough on its own and having an eye shape like hooded eyes that has minimal lid space can make it even more difficult.
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You’ll need: A good liquid liner (I like *Physicians Formula 2 in 1 Lash Boosting Serum Eyeliner, I also love gel eyeliner but I find liquid gives me a little more precision), a few cotton swabs, a great eye makeup remover (My favourite is Bioderma Crealine) an eyelash curler and a mascara, preferably with a curved wand to enhance your eyeliner (I like Maybelline Colossal Cat Eyes)
Step 1: Start off with your clean eye (or with a good eye primer)
Step 2: Take your liquid liner pen and hold it on its side so that you get a thin line, close to the lashes, tilt your head up and look down into a mirror resting your elbow on a flat surface to create a steady, smooth line.
Step 3: Look directly into a mirror and finish off the line using thin, feathering strokes making the line ever so slightly thicker as you go along, remember to follow the natural shape of your eye, don’t start angling the eyeliner up in the middle of your eyelid.
Step 4: Hold the eyeliner on its side again and at the very end of your eye where your upper and lower lid join and gently draw a small wing along the outer corner of your eye.
Step 5: Extend the line further till you are happy with the length and gently wing it upwards to lift the look of your eye. Don’t worry about being to precise, you can fix up any mistakes you make later.
Step 6: Using the tip of the liner connect the end of the wing back in with your original eyeliner and fill in any tiny gaps, don’t over-fill this area though (especially on eye shapes that have minimal lid space, such as hooded eyes) or it may look like you’ve applied eyeliner over your whole eyelid. Remember to use a gentle motion with a light hand and feathering strokes, you want a thin, precise line not one that looks like you’ve used a sharpie on your eyes.
Step 7: Take a cotton tip soaked in eye makeup remover, hold it in line where your upper and lower lid join and wipe it upwards. This will get rid of any unevenness in the line you created earlier. You may need to clean up and redefine your wing a few times, I find I usually need to clean up and reapply twice until I get a result I’m happy with.
Step 8: Now that you’ve got a line that you’re happy with ensure your eyeliner has set; you don’t want all that hard work going down the drain because you blinked too fast! You may think we are done but we aren’t, not just yet! No look is complete without the next two steps.
Step 9: Curl your lashes! Hold the lash curler at the base of your lashes, squeeze for a few seconds, walk it out to the ends of your lashes and squeeze again.
Step 10: Apply mascara to the upper lashes only, I find that curved mascara brushes give winged eyeliner that extra something. Remember to look down into a mirror whilst applying (more length and definition, plus it means you won’t poke your eye out!), wiggle the wand at the base of your lashes and apply two coats to ensure you catch every single lash.
Step 11: Congratulations you’ve winged it!
Don’t be annoyed if you don’t get it perfect straight away, winged eyeliner can be a little tricky to master at first but once you’ve got it down pat it is a breeze to do.
Should it look like a hot-mess and you don’t have the time to fix it try smudging it with a cotton tip or a smudging brush. It’ll give you a soft, sultry cat eye that looks pretty damn great since it was made from something you weren’t originally happy with.
*This post contains a product/sample which was sent to me for editorial consideration (products are marked with *) in accordance with my disclosure policy, this does not alter the honesty of this post or this blog, all opinions stated are honest and my own.
