July 2013 Beauty Favourites

So what have I being loving this month? Well because of my June trip to London I have used alot of new products this month and cannot wait to share them with y'all! Because the weather was so nice this month I tended to opt for a more natural look. Concentrating on flawless skin and leaving my eyes to speak for themselves I was all about the creamy, shimmering and summery products this July. Oh and there seems to be a little trend amongst some of my fav's....Inglot addict maybe?

So let me start with the skin,
I am literally obsessed with Laura Mercier's silk creme foundation since the day I used it. Its oil free so doesn't create a shiny mess on my T zone which is a massive plus. It is so pigmented that a tiny bit goes very far but even though its full coverage it doesn't look cakey, it leaves a fab natural radiance to the skin. If you haven't tried it please pick up a sample when you are next at a Laura Mercier counter....you will fall in love!

To apply this foundation I am loving my beauty blender (which is too full of makeup to photograph today). The girl at the counter where I bought my foundation said its best applied with a sponge and she is right, it glides on effortlessly with the beauty blender and never looks made up. I do have a love hate relationship with the beauty blender though because I feel its a germ fest but yet it applies foundation and concealer effortless and flawlessly.....I will just have to wash it daily to keep germs at bay.....well worth it!

I have pretty dark circles under my eyes and find it difficult to find a decent concealer but I recently rediscovered the Inglot Cream Concealer (shade 67) in my kit and decided to give it a whirl. I use the pointed end of the beauty blender to dab the product under my eyes and I have to say the results are super, good coverage, not cakey and doesn't crease...happy days!! I am also using this concealer to cover some blemishes although I don't need much now that I am using the LM Silk Creme Foundation!!

The non creasing could also be down to my new favourite brush and powder for my under-eyes. After applying the concealer with the beauty blender I then use the Blank Canvas Cosmetics F23  pointed tip face brush to apply my powder. This brush is fab, it really allows you to get the product right in the corners and it just fits so comfortably under the eye...its like it was made for it. I like to pair this brush with the Ben Nye Banana Powder. This is a cult favourite and used by makeup artists worldwide. Its basically a yellow powder than is light enough that it doesn't dry out the under-eye but because of its colour it will help counteract any darkness...the difference is subtle but I love it.

I bought alot of Inglot products in London and my fav blush from the ones I bought is Shade 68. This is a coral colour that is fab for this time of year and looks super with a tan (although mine is fake at the moment). I just feel this blush goes with every makeup look and just adds a beautiful burst of colour to the face. I love the texture of the Inglot blushes. They are not chalky and are really pigmented and very reasonably priced too.

I've been loving two Inglot eye products this month and the first one is AMC Pure Pigment Eyeshadow in shade No 14. This is a light neutral creamy peachy colour. I just love to apply this on my lid with some soft matte browns in the crease and its really simple but adds a little something to the eyes. I also use this as a cheek bown highlighter, it is very finely milled so it is not glittery or heavy on the skin in any way.

To blend out the matte browns in my crease I am loving the Mac 217 brush. It is the best blending brush I have used to date because it just makes blending out your crease colour effortless. Every makeup artist or makeup enthusiast should own one of these. I think I own three at this stage.

I also love Inglot gel liner in 82. This is a bright blue liner. I love to wear blue eyeliner in my waterline to give my eyes a little somethin somethin. It makes my eyes pop and this one in particular is a fab shade and lasts all day long. If you are in the market for a new blue liner you should check this out. In general the Inglot liners in my opinion are the best on the market. They are very reasonably priced at €15 and are definitely waterproof. Love them so much and have alot in my collection.

I opted for a neutral pink shade on the lips for most of the month and the lipstick I have used most often is MACs Creme Cup. Fab colour, fab consistency what more could you want. I top this with Boots No7 BB Lips in Blink Pink to give it that little bit extra and also to protect my lips from the sun as the BB lips has SPF 15....great little product

To take all my makeup off at night and refresh my skin I am obsessed with the Loreal 3 in 1 Micellar Solution. It's basically a cleansing water that removes makeup including mascara. It really is a marvel product. I love double cleansing so I will use this to remove most of my makeup then I will use a face wash and my clarisonic to remove the rest. I don't think this product is enough to remove all traces of makeup, or maybe it is but you would need a hell of alot of product!! I have definitely noticed I am not breaking out as much since using this and so this means that it really is thoroughly cleansing the skin while being uber sensitive and gentle on the skin. Definitely worth a go.

Well thats all my July favourites. I hope you found this interesting and hope you go away with some extra info on some great tried and tested products out there on the market...trip to Inglot anyone???

Be sure to let me know by commenting below what your favourites were for the month of July, I would love to know and maybe try some in August.

Have a great day whatever you do and be safe xxx

Nivea's Newest Shower Treat

I am a pamper princess without a doubt. I love anything that allows me to spend extra time preening myself in the mornings. So when I seen the new Nivea In-Shower Moisturiser I wasn't too push on trying it because I though firstly, that it would cut out my favourite morning ritual of moisturising from head to toe and secondly, I thought it wouldn't moisturise me as well as a normal body butter would. But my blogger instinct to try all things new got the better of me and I picked it up not expecting too much.

So what exactly is it I hear you say? Well basically its a body lotion that you use in the shower after washing yourself with your shower gel. It needs to be applied to wet skin as the lotion is activated by water. Once you have it rubbed in you can then rinse it off and there is no need to moisturise after getting out of the shower, handy huh?

Well, what did I think of it? I actually love this product. It really does moisturise my skin very well and although it feels remarkably strange not applying moistuiser to my dry skin after the shower there really is no need to. My skin stays hydrated all day long and the best thing about this product is that it leaves 0% sticky residue on my skin.....or on my shower tray when I come to think of it! It couldn't be easier to use. The no fuss flip cap makes squeezing the products while you have soaking wet hands very simple and the lotion itself has a light texture but not too running so it doesn't run off your hands and down the plug hole.

If you are a fan of the infamous Nivea scent then you won't be disappointed with this purchase because it well and truly smells like the old school moisturisers I used when I was a teenager.

Another thing I was a little anxious about was that I thought it wouldn't work well with my fake tan and would lift some of it off but infact I think it makes it last longer if anything.

Nivea's In-Shower Moisturiser is available in both Dry and Normal skin formulas. I only tried the dry skin formula. I don't really have dry skin on my body but love nothing more than a really hydrating body lotion so thought it best to opt for this version. This product comes in a 250ml or a 400ml bottle and is on offer at the moment in Boots or on www.boots.ie.

Overall, I am really impressed with this purchase. I don't use it everyday because as I said before I love to make my morning time routine as long as possible but I definitely adore this for mornings when I am in a rush because I feel that I am not compromising a step in my routine as I still get great hydration from this. I don't think it would be great for anyone with really scaly dry skin but for everyone else I think its a must have.....

Nail Art Tutorial- Polka Dots

Hello Ladies, as promised I have photographed a nail tutorial for a simple but very popular type of nail art, Polka Dots. 

What you will need:
-A nail file
-A base coat (I use OPI Original Nail Envy Nail Strengthener. Its a great base coat but adds strength to the nails too).
-A colour of your choice or if you prefer a colour for each nail. I have choosen 4 different shades (I only did 4 nails). I choose Dare to Wear nail polish in "Old New Borrowed Blue", "First Love", "Moon River" and "Butterflies".
-A white nail polish
-A hard surface to place the white nail polish onto
-A dotting tool
-A top coat (I adore Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat.


So lets get started:

      STEP ONE: File nails to your preferred shape and choose your favourite nail colours.

                                    STEP TWO: Apply one coat of the base coat to all nails

STEP THREE: Apply two coats of your chosen nail polish to each nail and leave to dry

STEP FOUR: Apply some of the white polish to a hard surface. This is to allow you to pick up the white polish easily with the dotting tool

STEP FIVE: Pick up a small amount of the white varnish on the dotting tool and apply two small dots to the top of your first nail. Then apply three dots in between the two dots that you just applied, then two dots, then three until you reach the end of your nail. Using this method gives a much more even application and looks much more professional. The dots don't have to be exactly the same size but it looks better if they are similar.

STEP SIX: Finally apply a coat of the fast drying top coat and allow to dry. Enjoy your new design.

So that's it ladies, seems simple and it really is when you get used to it but it can take practice. Let me know if you like these type of posts and I will be sure to do more for you in the future. Enjoy the rest of your day whatever you get up to. xxxx

Foundation 101: Right Tools for the Job

Following on from my last blog post Foundation 101:Choosing the right one next up is a post on the the different types of tools available to apply your favourite foundation. Hopefully this will be useful to you. 

The market is flooded with all types of tools/brushes to apply your foundation with. I have tried a lot of them and found that in their own little way they are all very useful and all provide different finishes. Here is a breakdown of what tools give what finishes:

Sigma F60 Foundation Brush

-The Flat Synthetic Foundation Brush-This is used almost like a paint brush, painting the products onto the face. This will give a fuller coverage. When using this make sure to blend the foundation well as it is very easy to miss an area of the face.  If not blended well it can also leave streaks on the face so be sure to blend any lines out with a sponge or fingers after application. There are a lot of good brushes on the market but one of my favourite is the Sigma F60 Foundation brush. These can be bought online on various websites.

Top: Sigma F80 Flat Top Kabuki and Bottom: Real Techniques Buffing Brush

-Kabuki Brush- This is a relatively new tool to apply foundation with but in my eyes it’s the BEST. These brushes have dense tapered bristles which means that they will give a full coverage application. There are synthetic kabuki brushes which are used for liquid and cream products and natural haired ones which are used for application of powder or mineral makeup.  Kabuki’s come in all shapes and sizes but the two which I love the most are the Real Techniques Buffing Brush (from the Core Collection) and the Sigma F80 Flat Top Kabuki Brush. They give amazing coverage and you only need a small amount of product. Full coverage that’s easy on the pocket……sold!!!!!!

Sigma F50 Fibre Brush

-The Duo Fibre Brush- This was my fav brush until the Kabuki’s came along. They are still great for applying liquid foundations and will give an air-brushed effect if you buff the product in a circular motion onto the skin. However, in my eyes they don’t come close to the Kabuki for full coverage but if you want medium coverage then this is your baby! I haven’t given up on this brush completely though as I use it on a daily basis for applying my bronzer. If you want a strong contoured bronze look this wouldn’t be the brush to use but if you want to just add a natural glow to the skin using a powder bronzer then this will do the job. This brush is also great for applying mineral makeup.  Again much love for Sigma as you just cannot beat their F50 Duo Fibre brush.

-A sponge- Used damp this will give a sheer finish to the skin or can be applied more heavily in places by dabbing the product onto the skin to get a heavier coverage (often this is only needed on the cheek area). However, the sponge does soak up a lot of product and so can waste a lot of product! Not to mention the fact that they aren’t particularly good for the environment if you are constantly throwing them away. They can also hold bacteria if you reuse them without washing them. I do love sponges for blending out any harsh lines left after cream products though!! Any brand will do the job in this case. 

Beauty Blender

-The beauty blender- This is egg shaped and does the same thing as the sponge except it provides a more seamless finish with less waste as it doesn’t absorb the product. This is a haven for bacteria too  so be sure to clean this regularly. Full review on the beauty blender coming very soon.

I hope this was of some help to you. I know choosing the best tool for foundation application isn't an easy task and I hope this little post has helped you get to grips with it a little better. Please feel free to ask me any questions you may have. xxxx

Foundation 101: Choosing the right one

Beautiful Image from www.beccacosmetics.com

Every girl wants the infamous flawless face and it is this that makeup artists and women across the globe strive to achieve everyday. The flawless face can involve any or all of the following basic products:

1)Primer

2)Foundation

3)Concealer

4)Powder

The main area that causes women the most heart-ache is trying to find the right foundation for their skin(colour and formulation). This post is here to help you with choosing the right foundation for you.

If you are going to wear foundation, primer is a must. Put a cent-size amount in your palm, spread it over your fingers and gently massage the product over your entire face, just as you would your moisturiser. If you have sensitive eyes avoid this area, however if you can tolerate it it is a great base for your eye makeup (there is also a specific eyelid primer available, check back here for future posts about eye makeup application). Primer seals in your moisturiser and provides a smooth surface for foundation. It also keeps your makeup from being absorbed by the skin, giving your makeup greater staying power throughout the day. I am a big fan of Inglot's Under Makeup Base, read my full review here.

In order to choose the best foundation for your skin type we need to look at two things 1)The colour of the foundation and 2)The formulation of the product.

1)CHOOSING THE RIGHT COLOUR OF FOUNDATION:

To be sure you have got the perfect shade for you, pick three colours from the same range that are closest to your complexion tone. Put a small stripe of each on the skin right above the jawline. The one that seems to disappear is the best colour for you. Its also advisable to look at this in a natural sun light as the artificial lights of shops can be deceiving. Be sure to carry a hand mirror when shopping for foundation so you can go outside and look at the foundation in the natural light. Also do not be afraid to ask the sales assistant for a sample of the product so you can take it home and try it in your own comfort. This is highly recommended for anyone with oily/combination skin as alot of foundations tend to mix with the oils in your skin and get darker as they settle into the skin. If this is the case you may need to go a shade lighter to compensate for this. 

If your skin colour on your face, neck and chest do not match, you may have to adjust the foundation for them to blend evenly. You can bring all the tones in line by adding a darker foundation or tinted moisturiser to your existing foundation so your face can match a darker chest for example. You can also use this trick in the summer if you have a nice tan and your foundation doesn't match your skin anymore or also if you protect your face but have a tan elsewhere. Adding a touch of liquid bronzer (Estee Lauder do a beautiful one) to your foundation adds a sunkissed look to your skin. This can also be done with a liquid highlighter which will add some light reflecting particles to your foundation to give you a glowing look (but be careful not to overdo it as this can look very shiny if too much is applied). Also adding a moistuiser to a foundation makes the consistency more sheer and often people like this during the day and then use the foundation at night when heavier coverage is wanted.

2)CHOOSING THE RIGHT FORMULATION FOR YOUR SKIN TYPE:

There are 7 main textures of foundation. Each one is specially formulated to meet the needs of specific skin types.

1. Cream Foundation is ideal for: Normal, combination and dry skin. There are also oil free cream foundations which are perfect for oilier skins. It is especially well suited for women with uneven pigmentation and acne, or those requiring a heavier coverage.

Coverage: Medium to full.

Finish: Dewy to Matte depending on product you choose. The oil free formulas tend to be more mattifying.

What it does: Covers and conceals discolorations and  imperfections on the skin providing a flawless finish.

Application: Use a make up sponge or a foundation/kabuki brush.

Example of Foundation: Laura Mercier Silk Cream Foundation

2. Liquid Foundation is ideal for: All Skin types, if you have very oily skin you should only use oil free liquid foundations. It is especially well suited for dry or mature skin.

Coverage: Light to medium

Finish: Dewy, satin or matte depending on the formulation.

What it does: Evens out the skin tone by smoothing out any unevenness. It also provides added moisture to the skin.

Application: Use a make up sponge or a foundation/kabuki brush.

Example of Foundation: Mac Studio Fix Fluid

3. Pressed powder foundation is ideal for: Oily skin

Coverage: Medium to Full.

Finish: Matte.

What it does: Evens out the skin tone, hides imperfections and absorbs excess oil.

Application: Use a powder/kabuki brush. The denser the bristles, the more product will be deposited on the skin.

Example of Foundation: Mac Studio Fix Powder

4. Mineral foundation is ideal for: All skin types. It is especially well suited for those with sensitive skin or rosacea.

Coverage: Light to medium

Finish: Matte.

What it does: Evens out the skin tone, moisturizes, protects and absorbs excess oil.

Application: Use a kabuki brush to buff it on.

Example of Foundation: Bare Minerals Powders

5. Tinted Moisturiser is ideal for: Normal and dry skin. It is especially well suited for those who need extra hydration and just a touch of color to pull everything together.

Coverage: Sheer to light.

What it does: Lightly evens out the skin tone, while giving a “no make up” look.

Application: Use a foundation brush or your clean fingers.

Example of Foundation: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser

6. Stick Foundation is ideal for: All skin types (except oily)

Coverage: Medium to Full

What it does: Can be used to even out the skin only in areas where coverage is needed or can be blended all over the face for a more full coverage finish.

Application: Apply from the stick and blend with a damp makeup sponge

Example of Foundation: Bobbi Brown Stick Foundation

7: BB Creams are ideal for : All skin types as there is a formula for every skin type

Coverage: Sheer to Light

What it does: Provides a small amount of coverage while at the same time has added skincare benefits. It's an all round product that replaces moisturisers, serums and tinted moisturisers in your daily routine

Application: Apply with clean fingers or for more coverage apply with a Kabuki brush

Example of Foundation: Dr Jart+ BB Cream

Whatever your skin type, you have a variety of choices. Pick the one that is best for you and start reaping the benefits today.

I really hope you found this post helpful and stay tuned for my next few posts in the foundation 101 series. Still to come is the best tools to apply your foundation with and then my tried and tested foundations which will give you an insight into my honest opinion of the foundations I have tried throughout the years.

Have a wonderful day xxxx

No7's latest lip lovelies

I am not a massive fan of BB Creams in general. There are two BB Creams for the face which I love but that's about it. So I was a little skeptical when I seen that Boots No7 had launched their new BB Lips. But a friend of mine was kind enough to purchase one for me so I was more than happy to give it a go! 

The colour I received was Berry Rose which is a bright reddish colour. I am more of a neutral lippy gal (I am getting better though) so I was a little scared of this colour but I have to say I was pleasantly surprised. The colour is quiet sheer and so is very workable for a bright lippy virgin like myself. I was so impressed with this one that I decided to purchase one which was more on the neutral side which I could wear to work everyday and really give this new discovery a thorough testing. The shade I purchased was Blink Pink and because I had No7 vouchers I ended up getting it for €6.50 (normally €11). I really love this colour, its a bright pink summery colour and great for everyday.        
                                                                           

                 

So what did I actually think of the product? Overall, I really do like these products. I am a big fan of lipbalms but also love coloured lipgloss and I think this product gives me the best of both worlds. The colour is sheer but not too sheer that it is not noticeable on the lips. The thick consistency is so moisturising and even after the product wears off (I do wish they were a little bit more long wearing) my lips still feel really hydrated and smooth which is not easy to find even in an expensive lip balm. I have definitely noticed a difference in the condition of my lips after using this product for a few days continuously. The main thing I like about this product is that it is not sticky in anyway, it has a lovely creamy texture so you don't have to deal with the dreaded hair stuck to lips look (not a good one when you are trying to strut your stuff down Grafton Street on a Saturday afternoon). 

Where does the BB claim come in I hear you say? Well this is definitely hydrating and nourishing for the lips and it also contains SPF 15 and UVA protection so I presume that is what the BB Claim is all about.

I have used a similar product to this before from Clairns. In fact there is very little difference between the two in my opinion apart from the fact that Clairns Instant Light Lip Perfector has a sponge applicator whereas No7's has a plastic one which in my opinion is much more hygienic  Oh and also Clairns offering is €17 euro as opposed to €11.  

No7 have really got it right with this new launch. It's exactly what we all should be looking for in a summer lip product, moisturising, a touch of colour and SPF protection. Tick, Tick, Tick. Well done No7, you have me hooked.