Eye Shadow -Bobbi Brown - Long Wear Cream Shadow Sticks
dizzielittlerascal 5/21/2013 7:42:00 AM
Newly released for Spring 2013, Bobbi Brown launched these in 8 shades. I chose Forest, which is a beautiful, dark emerald green. I find the colour similar to Urban Decay Loaded, which I adore. But I was eager to try a quick and easy eyeshadow and these new cream shadow sticks seem to fit the bill. And it certainly does. Bobbi Brown claims it is long wearing (hence the name) but I still have to wear a primer underneath (currently Nars) or it creases like crazy on my oily eyelids. What I do is draw a think line over most of my lid, then use a synthetic brush to blend upwards (I use a Real Techniques small shader brush). I then draw another layer over the top, just along the lashline, very lightly blending this time to intensify the colour along the lashes. This gives me an instant smoky eye. So quick and easy and with the aid of the primer I am getting a good days wear from it. Not too difficult to remove either, so I am now researching other colours to buy. I have tried the Laura Mercier version, but have to say I find these a lot creamier and easier to blend. A good product from Bobbi Brown, and one I would highly recommend!
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Highlighters -Shiseido - Luminizing Satin Face Color in WT905 High Beam White
dizzielittlerascal 4/30/2013 10:41:00 AM
My newest acquisition in the search for the perfect highlighter, and I do think the search is over. Actually sold as a blusher (a white one at that) this is the perfect sheer glow I have been looking for.. Ever see pictures of people with a sheen, a glow, but looks like they have nothing on their skin? This gives you that look. Ever wondered how to look brighter and more luminous without it being to obvious? This is it. Honestly, its so finely milled and sheer it makes highlighting a breeze.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Makeup Brushes -Louise Young - Large foundation brush
dizzielittlerascal 4/18/2013 2:57:00 PM
I love this foundation brush! Yes, its big but when using this it really doesn't feel that big. I think its because it is tapered to a sort of point - great for getting into small spaces :o) Its super soft, which is a huge bonus as it doesn't fluff up any dry areas I may have (so highly recommended if you want to use a brush but have dry skin). I do not find it too hard to clean - it dries over night, although I have found I need to wash it after almost every use or two, or streaking will occur. No shedding either. Great brush for using it like a paddle brush, or as a buffing brush. Doesn't grab too much foundation either, so hardly any waste.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Powder -Chanel - Les Beiges - Healthy Glow Sheer Powder
dizzielittlerascal 4/13/2013 5:14:00 AM
I am around NW15-20 right now and got this in the lightest shade - #10. It is quite pink and not the same as, lets say, Vitalumiere in #10, which I find to be quite yellow. They are nothing alike in colour at all so if you are hoping to match your Chanel foundation to this powder don't bother. However, it is so sheer that actually it doesn't matter. The texture of this powder is extremely silky and finely milled, and I personally do not find it too powdery or too hard to pick up. Its just lovely and inpacts a healthy glow (with no sparkle/shimmer) without mattifying. It has no oil control at all so I would say this would suit dry skins better (it doesn't dry my skin out further). I also do not notice a very strong fragrance, and this hasn't oxidised on me either. I was told by the Chanel SA that this can be used in lots of ways depending on which colour you choose - as a setting powder, on its own, for contouring or even as a bronzer. I can see that but because of the price of this I am not sure I could justify shelling out on three shades for different uses. The packaging is pretty and it is a nice change from their bog standard black, but I still find that, as with most of their packaging, it does not look that HE imo. The brush which comes with it is very soft, but an odd curved thin shape, which doesn't appeal at all. Although, could be useful for contouring? I have however bought the brush which comes with it (aka marshmallow brush) and this is simply divine. You can see why they have brought out this brush to go with it as it picks up the correct amount of powder needed. It is indeed the softest, and most dense, brush I have! Now this gets major love from me! (Wish I had bought a back up of this now) Updated this to 5 stars as this (on me) looks its best on its own, just over sunscreen. My word does it let your skin shine! It impacts a healthy glow and although it lets your skin show through, it covers just enough to conceal some redness and evens out my skin tone. It feels very comfortable too, like nothing on. Have to say I adore this powder and really hope its part of their permanent line (which I am unsure if it is).
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Mascara -Yves Saint Laurent - Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils
dizzielittlerascal 4/2/2013 6:40:00 AM
I cannot tell you how disappointed I am with this mascara. I usually use Jordana's Best Lash Extreme, but as I have to have this sent over to me (I am in the UK where it is not sold) I thought I would try another brand, just to see how it compares. Jordana blows this out of the water. The YSL mascara is expensive, dry, doesn't hold a curl, doesn't offer volume or length and flakes within an hour of putting it on (no good especially as a contact lens wearer). It is almost gone by the end of the day. So annoyed when this mascara costs almost £20. Even using my HG primer (Shi lash base) doesn't help. I guess, with all things, YMMV - even with mascara.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Eye Primer -MAC - Prep + Prime Eye
dizzielittlerascal 3/5/2013 11:40:00 AM
Yes, I have read, and reread reviews and I still bought this rubbish (I suppose I was hopeful that they listened and reformulated, but alas they didn't). Honestly Mac, you have some stellar shadows and yet you sell this. I really wish I could return this but I can't in the UK. And I am too embarrassed to sell/swap because it really is that dreadful and wouldn't wish it on anyone else.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Lipstick -Yves Saint Laurent - Rouge Pur Couture The Mats Mat No. 202 Rose Crazy
dizzielittlerascal 2/14/2013 11:40:00 AM
This is probably the most expensive lipstick I have bought so far (cost £25 in the UK) but I was so mystified by the SA who was wearing it, I knew I had to have it. This is a matte lipstick so I was concerned about it drying my lips out - but I needn't of worried. It really doesn't, not even in the slightest. The reviewer before me definitely got it right about it being the same colour as Mac's Beet lipliner - it is the same. They team together so well. On my lips this is a pretty, deep pink. Its stunning. You can't help but feel good when wearing this colour. Wear time is very good too, only needing to top up once during the day but as it does wear off it leaves a pretty stain behind (without going patchy). And what I am most happy about it - it actually stays true to colour on my lips, its doesn't go a red colour which so many deep pinks do. Expensive, yes - but worth every penny.
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Loose Powders -NARS - Light Reflecting Setting Powder
dizzielittlerascal 2/14/2013 5:55:00 AM
I have dry skin and most powders can dry me out a little. What I look for in a powder is not to control oilies, but to set foundation. I was almost out of my regular powder and decided to purchase this. When it arrived I was surprised at how small the container was. I have used the normal Nars Loose which came in a huge (and too big) container, but no - this is quite dinky in comparison! It is in a heavy rigid plastic jar with the annoyingly usual rubberised screw top lid. There is no puff with this. You get 10g of powder. This powder is magical I tell you. I have no idea what is in there that gives you that soft focused glow. Not sparkly, just a satin finish. Don't use too much, use very sparingly or you will get a white cast from this. But you don't need to add a lot, the small dusting is enough. It blurs (not erases) fine lines and pores. This also doesn't dry me out further either which is fantastic for me. This is one big winner from Nars!
4 out of 4 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Liquid -Guerlain - 'Lingerie de Peau' Invisible Skin-Fusion Foundation
dizzielittlerascal 1/10/2013 4:59:00 PM
I just couldn't resist trying out this foundation. I love Guerlain and after seeing all the praises for this, I just had to try. My biggest concern was colour matching. I am around NW15-20, leaning neutral and was worried I wouldn't find a shade light enough and wasn't too yellow. I needn't have worried though as Rose Clair 12 is good enough. Anyway, here are my thoughts: Pros: Natural, sheer/medium coverage, looks like skin (although still need a dab or two of concealer on very red scars. Satin finish. Long Lasting. I can get around 10/12 hours from this. Cannot feel or see this foundation. Non Caking. Very easy to blend due to the liquidy consistency to it. Beautiful designed glass bottle, with easy to control pump. Cons: Contains alcohol. I have dry skin so cannot wear this for more than a few days at a time. Need to use a very hydrating primer and moisturiser underneath. Hoping my skin will tolerate it better when the weather improves and my skin isn't so dry.. Limited shade range - I was lucky to get matched but it is borderline. Update: May 2013. Unfortunately even now that my skin is not as dry as it was when I first got this foundation, it still manages to dry my skin out to the point it makes it raw, itchy and angry by the end of the day. I am disappointed as I love the initial finish, I love the texture too and it now matches my skin tone but I simply cannot use it. I guess my skin cannot tolerate any alcohol any time of the year. Such a shame. I have awarded it three lippies only because I do feel it is a lovely foundation and would absolutely recommend it if your skin tolerates alcohol.
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Polishes -Essie - Eternal Optimist #676
dizzielittlerascal 1/3/2013 10:46:00 AM
Stunning neutral colour. Goes on smoothly in only two coats. Just the perfect everyday colour. I bought this just recently, and has a new wider brush which makes application easier too. Beautiful.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Makeup Brushes -MAC - #213 Fluff Brush
dizzielittlerascal 11/18/2012 8:19:00 AM
I have several Mac brushes for applying eyeshadow, but I have to admit this is the one I reach for the most when doing a wash of colour on my lids. It is super soft without being too floppy, and picks up a good amount of product too. I have not had one single hair drop out, it hasn't lost its shape, washes easily and dries quickly. I do feel this is better quality than the 217 (quality on that brush has diminished recently during manufacturing) and the 239. Highly recommended!
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Moisturizers -Clinique - Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion
dizzielittlerascal 11/11/2012 2:02:00 PM
I have dry/combo skin and getting is very dry right now as its heading towards winter. This is the only moisturiser my skin loves and doesn't cause me to break out. I love the runny consistency of this, which my skin tends to drink up without leaving a film on the skin. Now my skin is drier I tend to add a drop or two of Rosehip oil in with it, and this is suiting my skin much better. So to those of you who love this stuff but find its not quite moisturising enough, then try what I do. Put some of the moisturiser on the back of your hand and mix two drops of the oil in with it. Don't worry of it doesn't seem to mix too well as I can tell you this doesn't matter - just apply to your skin for good moisturisation, without it being too heavy and greasy. Edit: Heard that are going to be reformulating this. Hope not, as this usually means its not going to be for the better. Bad news.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Makeup Brushes -Real Techniques by Samantha Chapman - Shading Brush
dizzielittlerascal 11/6/2012 5:35:00 AM
I actually really, really love this little brush. I have small eyes so I use this to deposit colour on the outer corner of my eye and to blend it out. I love the fact that it picks up just the right amount of product to place it in such small areas, without it flicking colour everywhere. I have to say that the quality of this brush is very good for the price. It has a very slim handle which is not too long, therefore I find I can get up slightly closer to the mirror when doing small areas. It is also a dream to clean, doesn't stain, and is dry in no time too. I love it so much I have just ordered a second one.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Mascara -Jordana - Best Lash Extreme Volumizing Mascara
dizzielittlerascal 11/3/2012 4:41:00 PM
I have only one negative thing to say about this mascara - its not available in the UK!!!! Someone from the U.S kindly sent me one and I am in love! I am a contact lens wearer, and to boot I am trialling some new RGP lenses. So having a non flaky, non smudging mascara is very important to me and this has not let me down. I have short, sparse lashes and I always have to use a primer under mascara to give them a boost (this goes for HE or DS mascara). I do not need to with this one. I am so happy about that as the only primer I like is the Shi one, and that is £20 a pop! This mascara, on its own, and in less that two coats, gives me volume and length without stiffness and is as black as can be. Honestly, HG status worthy. Please Jordana, come to the UK! Edit: UKers, I have found an awesome seller on Amazon who sells them without overly inflating the price either (I managed to get 4, including postage, for less than a HE mascara). Was sent to me in less than a week :o)
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No
Mascara -Rimmel - Scandal Eyes
dizzielittlerascal 10/11/2012 6:41:00 AM
I have the waterproof version. I think they need to rename this to Scandalous, because that is what is is. It did absolutely nothing to my lashes, no volume or length. No curl holding either. The packaging is ugly too, doesn't dry fast enough causing panda eyes and the brush way too large for my lashes. Urgh. Don't waste your money on this mascara.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you? Yes No