Makeup Tips

ddollfacee said: Hey lovely, can you tell me what the point of a toner is like the one...

Mon, 20 May 2013 10:00:30 +0930

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.

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. 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.

If any product you use irritates you discontinue use immediately.

Click here to ask Makeup Tips Blog a question

YSL Glossy Stain Review

Fri, 17 May 2013 10:00:00 +0930

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.

YSL Glossy Stains from 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.

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.

YSL Glossy Stain swatches from 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.

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!

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*This post contains a product/sample which was sent to me for editorial consideration in accordance with my d isclosure 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.

529) Person of colour? Translucent powders will just make you look ashy and grey. If you can: skip powder all together, but if that isn't an option because you have oily skin opt for a powder that is the same shade (or one shade lighter) than your skin-tone to set your makeup.

Wed, 15 May 2013 10:00:00 +0930

(Powders tend to oxidize so it is best to go one shade lighter)

How to Make Your Makeup Last

Mon, 13 May 2013 10:10:00 +0930

“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…

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.

Lipstick fading? Read the guide How to Make Your Lipstick Last.

Eyeliner smudging? Read the guide How to Make Your Eyeliner Last.

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*This post contains a product/sample which was sent to me for editorial consideration (products are marked with *) in accordance with my d isclosure policy, This does not alter the honesty of this post 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...

Fri, 10 May 2013 10:00:00 +0930

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!

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)

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.

Click here to ask Makeup Tips Blog a question

Revlon PhotoReady Skinlights Illuminator Review + Swatches

Wed, 08 May 2013 10:00:00 +0930

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!

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.

Revlon PhotoReady Skinlights Illuminator Swatches from 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!

Revlon PhotoReady Skinlights Illuminator in 100 Beige packaging flaw.

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.

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500,000 later....

Mon, 06 May 2013 11:47:00 +0930

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!

If you haven’t already done so follow the blog on Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest to get your daily fix.

Does Chocolate Really Cause Acne?

Fri, 03 May 2013 10:00:00 +0930

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.

How to Look Great Whilst Traveling

Wed, 01 May 2013 10:00:00 +0930

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.

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 d isclosure policy, this does not alter the honesty of this review or the 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...

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 10:00:00 +0930

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.

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 Creamy Concealer and Maybelline Fit Me Concealer + orange lipstick.

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.

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.

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.

Essence Gel Eyeliner

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

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.

Click here to ask Makeup Tips Blog a question

Dior Addict Gloss Review

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 10:00:00 +0930

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.

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.

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)

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!

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.

A new look for Makeup Tips...

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 10:00:00 +0930

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.

Does Petroleum Jelly Really Make Eyelashes Longer & Healthier?

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 10:00:00 +0930

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.

How to Fix a Broken Powder

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 10:00:00 +0930

Picture this: You’re rushing to get out the door and use your favourite powder, only to accidentally knock it off your vanity, with it shattering into a million pieces. Sound all too similar? You don’t have to rush out and purchase a new one ASAP or cry in tears because it was limited edition, there is a way to fix it.

For fixing broken powder products we use a similar method to pressing a pigment except there are a few minor differences. This method can be used for just about any pressed powder formulation, such as bronzers, powder foundations/setting powders, blushes, highlighters, eye shadows, etc. However; this won’t work for multicolored products like Physicians Formula Happy Booster Blush. It will work for products which are one colour and have an embossed print but it will have a smooth surface instead.

You will need: Your broken product (in this case it is a Essence Silky Touch Blush that I purposely threw on the floor so I could write this how to guide), a small bowl, a knife or metal spatula, rubbing alcohol (can be bought from pharmacies/drugstores) paper towel and a small brush.

Step 1: Smash the powder up until it becomes loose and powdery and easy to remove.

Step 2: Scrape powder into small bowl and if needed crush it a little more.

Step 3: Add a few drops of rubbing alcohol (best to start off with less than too much)

Step 4: Mix the rubbing alcohol & powder up until it becomes a thick paste. If needed add more rubbing alcohol.

Step 5: Scrape the paste back into the pan, smoothing as you go.

Step 6: Take some paper towel and press it over the product to remove any excess rubbing alcohol and press the product down.

Step 7: Dip your small brush into rubbing alcohol and clean up the edges.

Step 8: All done! Allow to dry with the lid of the product open, wipe away your tears and pretend it never happened!

PS: I highly recommend sanitizing all your tools before doing this. (Your spatula, knife, bowl, brush)

PPS: You don’t need to be worried about using rubbing alcohol. As long as you allow it to dry the alcohol will evaporate and won’t alter the performance of the product.

electr0philic asked: Could you please tell me what a C.C cream is? Is it similar to a B.B...

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 10:00:00 +0930

electr0philic asked:
Could you please tell me what a C.C cream is? Is it similar to a B.B cream?

BB, CC, DD. How about we just skip to the end of the alphabet already?

BB creams (blemish or beauty balms) are essentially a tinted moisturiser, although some of them have more skin benefits and target specific skin concerns (like pigmentation, dullness, etc) if you want a BB cream, take my word for it and go the Asian route. (My favourite is Missha) Why go the Asian route instead of the western route you may ask? Asian ones generally give more coverage and are overall just a heck of a lot better. I find most Western BB creams, in short terrible. They are just a hyped up version of tinted moisturiser (don’t get me wrong I love tinted moisturiser!) but they usually try just a little too hard resulting in a hot mess.

CC creams however are “colour correcting” or “colour controlling” creams. There really isn’t much difference between BB and CC creams; they both provide some coverage to even out the skin tone and usually a little SPF. The only real difference is that CC creams either correct uneven skin tone or are usually tinted in a colour correcting colour. (Like green to correct redness, orange to correct darkness, lilac to correct sallowness) So far I have only tried *L’Oreal Anti-Redness CC cream, I am personally not a huge fan. I found it a touch drying and way too dark for my fair skin tone and you can usually get the same (if not better) result by mixing a little green primer with your foundation.

DD (daily defense) cream is different again. Whilst they haven’t yet gotten as much hype and recognition as BB and CC they are still the new kid on the block. Rather than focusing on the face and providing coverage they are meant to focus on the body and feet, providing extra hydration. So what are they exactly? Well basically just a heavy duty body lotion.

Tinted moisturisers > BB cream > CC cream.
Body lotion > DD cream

What exactly do I think of this whole phase of double lettered beauty products? I’m over it. Brands are now just adding BB, CC or DD to a products packaging to sell it. BB blush, BB powder (beauty balm powder simply doesn’t make any sense to me), BB hair cream what will be next? Brands have taken it just a bit too far for my liking, BB creams were great at first when they started getting popular but once Western brands started tapping into the market they ruined a good thing.

Don’t buy into it, it is a marketing ploy.

Next of all? I am waiting for someone to launch a PP cream.

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.

Click here to ask Makeup Tips Blog a question

Benefit Fake Up Concealer Review

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 10:00:00 +0930

Benefit is renowned for their concealers (think Erase Paste and Boi-ing, neither of which I have tried) almost as much as they are for their tints. When I started to see hype building up around the product from the US I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it, so when I was invited to the Benefit Fake Up Launch back in February I got a wee bit excited.

I am super fussy with my concealers so I couldn’t wait to see whether this one would “wow” me. Out of the 50 odd billion concealers I’ve tried I’ve only ever liked three; Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer, Maybelline Fit Me and L’Oreal True Match Stick concealer have been the only ones I have loved.

Benefit makes some pretty big claims with this new baby! They claim it hydrates, feels comfortable, is silky, long lasting, lightweight, crease-proof and that it conceals dark circles. To me that instantly makes me think “Perfect Concealer Alert!” but is it? Let’s uncover the mystery….

Coverage wise, it is a little sheerer than I would like my concealer to be. I like to be able to put it on, tap with my finger tips and be done with it. To fully cover my dark circles with the Fake Up I usually need to apply around 6 layers which is an awful lot, but as it doesn’t turn cakey after so many layers and the end result still looks natural I can live with it.

Benefit Fake Up Concealer with its hydrating ring and concealing core.

Drying concealers under the eye area are an obvious no-go zone so it pleases me to great extents that this concealer is super hydrating. I don’t even have to use an eye cream in the mornings if I am using this! As with almost all concealers I recommend you use a separate concealer for your eye area and your breakouts, especially in this case due to the packaging and the hydrating nature of the product.

The texture of this isn’t like any of my other concealers, it falls somewhere in between Bobbi Brown’s Creamy Concealer and Maybelline Fit Me, it is super-duper creamy (which makes it easy to blend) but some may find it a little greasy (only because it is so hydrating)

The staying power on this is good but I don’t feel it is entirely crease proof. I don’t often have an issue with my concealer creasing but this did crease. The concealer doesn’t really “set” or lock into place (which is due to the hydration factors of this product) but it can be easily fixed with setting around the eye area with translucent powder but this does take away from the dewy, hydrating effect it gives. I have found that eye makeup (mainly mascara and eyeliner) do smudge as they get attracted to the concealer so you will need to set around your eye area.

Benefit Fake Up Concealer in Light.

The shade range only contains three shades (light, medium and deep) like the rest of Benefits concealers which isn’t a huge selection. I have very fair skin (a Bobbi Brown Porcelain) and this only just matches me so those with a skin tone any lighter than mine will find it too dark. Those with a deeper skin tone could also have difficulties finding a perfect match.

Benefit never seems to strike a note wrong with its cute, quirky and unique packaging but is it practical? An issue I had with Fine One One was that it was unhygienic and I do have a few issues with the packaging of Fake Up too. It is packaged in a silver, slim, twist up lipstick style tube which is quick and easy to chuck in your bag. However like Fine One One; Fake Up is unhygienic as you are using it on your eye area everyday directly from the tube as you can’t apply it with a brush. One of my favourite makeup tips is to mix a little orange or coral lipstick in with my concealer as this helps to correct darkness but this wasn’t possible to do due to the packaging.

After testing this concealer for quite some time I can say that whilst it may not be my go-to the Fake Up Is great after you’ve had a long night out or lack of sleep as the hydrating ring in conjunction with the concealer makes the eye area look bright and awake!

I also have some exciting news for my neighbours: The New Zealanders! Benefit will be launching for all my amazing NZ followers soon! As I don’t have an exact date for the launch you can Like them on Facebook or follow them on Instagram or Twitter to keep up with the latest info of when they are launching!

The Benefit Cosmetics Fake Up concealer retails for $35 in Australia and will be on Benefit counters in select Myer stores from the 20th of April. In the US it retails for $24 and is available at Sephora and Benefit Counters.It is £18.50 at Benefit Counters and Boots in the UK.

* I was a guest at the Benefit Fake Up launch and was provided this product for editorial consideration in accordance with my d isclosure policy. This does not alter the honesty of this review or this blog, all opinions stated are honest and my own.

How to Tightline your Eyes

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 10:00:00 +0930

Tightlining is one of my favourite eye-lining techniques. It gives great definition but still looks subtle and natural, plus it also makes your lashes look thicker. It is great for all eye shapes especially those with hooded eyelids because it doesn’t take up any lid space. Not to mention it doesn’t require a precision application unlike winged eyeliner. It is also a great technique to use before applying false lashes as you won’t end up with a gap in between the band of the false lashes and the base of your natural lashes.

Tightlining is done by applying your eyeliner in between your eyelashes instead of above them.

You will need: Either a flat eyeliner brush with gel eyeliner (I like Essence Gel Eyeliner) or a three dot liner like Too Faced Three Way Lining Lash Tool (a budget friendly version is ELF Essential Triple Tip Waterproof Eyeliner Pen but try and wear the tip down a bit on the back of your hand first otherwise it will be too firm and hurt your eyes!) To finish off the look use a mascara. I’m using Maybelline The Rocket Mascara (I find the formula a touch clumpy but it still gives great length & volume. My other favourites are: Benefit They’re Real, Smashbox Hyperlash and Covergirl Lash Blast Clump Crusher)

Using a gel eyeliner and a flat brush:

Step 1: Start off with your clean eye. I prefer to do my eyes before my face makeup and for the tightlining technique I do my eyeliner before my eyeshadow.

Step 2: Take your flat liner brush with gel eyeliner and gently lift up your eyelid so that your lash line is exposed. Then with your brush gently “push and wiggle” it in-between your lashes.

Step 3: Your lash line should be more defined, I find with the gel eyeliner technique some liner can end up on your eyelid so take a cotton tip with some eye makeup remover to clean off any mistakes if necessary. You may also need to clean off any eyeliner from your waterline with a cotton tip or it will transfer to your lower lash line.

Step 4: Add a good coat of mascara remembering to wiggle the wand back and forth at the very base of your lashes so you catch every lash.

Using a 3 dot liquid liner:

Step 1: Start off with your clean eye.

Step 2: Either lift your eyelid up so your lash line is exposed or look into a mirror and align the liner so that you can easily dot in between each of your lashes.

Step 3: Continue doting the liner in-between your lashes until you get to the inner corner of your eye.

Step 4: Your lash line will now be more defined and your lashes will look thicker. You may need to clean off any eyeliner from your waterline with a cotton tip or it will transfer to your lower lash line.

Step 5: Add a coat of mascara and you’re done!

Which method works best?

Both techniques will produce around the same result; however the gel eyeliner will generally give a thicker result.The product is quite thick so it will stick to your lashes; this means that when you apply mascara you will get an even thicker looking lash. The three dot liquid liner method will give you more precision and will allow you to get in between the lashes better. I find that the three dot method is much easier to use than the gel eyeliner and is basically fool proof.

transiency asked: What makeup products would you buy if you only had $50? :) *Rimmel Match...

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 11:02:00 +0930

transiency asked:
What makeup products would you buy if you only had $50? :)

*Rimmel Match Perfection foundation $6

Not quite as great as my favourite Bobbi Brown Luminous Moisturising Foundation but it is a lovely foundation and I can totally deal with using it. Great price tag, great shade range, great overall foundation.

Maybelline Fit Me Concealer $5

Besides Bobbi Brown this is my go-to concealer. It covers up everything well, not full coverage but super build-able.

Essence Sun Club Large Matte Bronzing powder $5

Benefit Hoola and NARS Laguna are my favourite bronzers and trying to find a good bronzer on a budget can be a touch difficult. There are rave reviews on the NYC Sunny Bronzer but I’m yet to try it so my other favourite option is Essence Sun Club Large Matte Bronzing Powder, it is matte and you get lots of product.

ELF HD Blush $3

These are only $3 and a true gem. Super pigmented (so make sure you use sparingly) beautiful formula and great staying power, plus they are super similar to the exy Makeup Forever HD Blushes.

ELF Radiance Enhancer $3

I am partial to my Benefit High Beam but boy does this stuff come pretty close. It is a beautiful highlighter and it comes in many shades so you are sure to find one that compliments your skin-tone.

ELF Eyelid Primer $1

For $1 you can’t go wrong and it works just as great as Urban Decay Primer Potion.

Wet N Wild Color Icon Comfort Zone Palette $5

My favourite eyeshadows, especially on a drugstore level. Super pigmented, super soft and the staying power is quite good. The comfort zone palette in particular contains shades that anyone can pull off and you can create hundreds of different looks with it.

Essence Gel Eyeliner $4

This stuff, oh my, I just can’t even… This gel eyeliner is FANTASTIC. Move over MAC, Stila, Bobbi Brown and say hello the revolution. Never dries out, cheap, super pigmented and the staying power is insane.

Covergirl Clump Crusher $7

Drugstore mascaras simply don’t agree with my sensitive eyes, except for this one! No clumps, great length and great volume = love.

Essence Eyebrow Stylist $4

So far, this is my favourite eye brow product I have tried. I even like it more than Makeup Forever Aqua Brow. It is EXTREMELY similar to the Urban Decay Brow Box but the packaging is a pain.

Wet N Wild mega last lipstick $2

I love these lipsticks. I can’t fault anything about them (except maybe the packaging) they are pigmented, creamy and have great staying power.

That brings the total to $45! That is basically a full face in under $50 (besides a powder and primer because they aren’t absolutely essential and not everyone uses them.) $50 might sound like a lot to some of you but most of these products you can usually find on a discount.

This has been done with American pricing, because well trying to buy makeup with only $50 in Australia is basically impossible. Even our drugstore brands which are equivalent to NYX, etc are around the $15 mark, if not more.

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.

Click here to ask Makeup Tips Blog a question

528) Cloudy outside? Don't think you can ditch the SPF! Whether it is raining, snowing, cloudy or sunny UVA/UVB rays are present so slap on your SPF 30+ Broad Spectrum sunscreen and walk out the door!

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 10:00:16 +0930

L'Oreal Color Caresse Wet Shine Stain Review

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 10:20:00 +1030

L’Oreal Shine Caresse Lip Colour (Australia) L’Oreal Color Caresse Wet Shine Stain (America) L’Oreal GlamShine Stain Splash (England) are all the same product, very confusing I know but L’Oreal have marketed them differently in every country.

These are one of the most hyped up products in the blogosphere and whenever a product gets a lot of hype - I am skeptical. You see; people seem to fall head over heels for new drugstore releases but I always seem to be the one who ends up hating them or thinking that they aren’t as great as they are cracked up to be. Take the Revlon Lip Butters or Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stains; sure they are nice but they didn’t exactly make me jump with joy, neither were extraordinary but they weren’t bad either. Since many people claim these are an “exact dupe” for the YSL Glossy Stains I got a little excited, I tried one once and fell in love. They could maybe even be classed as my favourite lip product of all time but the expensive price tag? Not so much.

L’Oreal Color Caresse Wet Shine Stains from left to right: *186 Berry Persistent, 187 Intense Fuchsia, *188 Coral Tattoo, 183 Pink Resistance, 182 Pink Perseverance, *185 Lilac Ever After, 193 Eternally Nude.

The lipstick/gloss hybrid really feels nice on the lips. Silky, smooth, hydrating and soft. Perhaps a bit stickier than the YSL and resemble more of a gloss than a shiny lipstick but it still works and they still feel great on the lips

Generally speaking I am not a fan of glossy lip products. Give me a matte, satin or cream finish any day but not glossy. I have preferred lipstick over glosses for as long as I can remember; but for some reason I actually really love the finish of these. Not gross and tacky looking but healthy and shiny, I feel the finish could be enjoyed by anyone A+

L’Oreal Color Caresse Wet Shine Stain applicators from left to right: *186 Berry Persistent, 187 Intense Fuchsia, *188 Coral Tattoo, 183 Pink Resistance, 182 Pink Perseverance, *185 Lilac Ever After, 193 Eternally Nude.

The packaging really goes above and beyond what I would expect from a drugstore brand. These are sleek and look super luxurious with their rose gold packaging. I also really like the applicator of the product. The small hole in the center means you don’t constantly need to dip the wand back into the product which to me is a plus. Not to mention the “tear drop” shape means you can get a precision application. Overall though I still prefer YSL in terms of the packaging and applicator.

Yucky, plastic smelling lip products aren’t my favourite (are they anyone’s?) so the fact that these smell quite pleasant is great. The scent is in my opinion identical to the YSL Glossy stains (a sort of wine, rich scent) but maybe a touch less strong.

L’Oreal Color Caresse Wet Shine Stain swatches from left to right: *186 Berry Persistent, 187 Intense Fuchsia, *188 Coral Tattoo, 183 Pink Resistance, 182 Pink Perseverance, *185 Lilac Ever After, 193 Eternally Nude.

Pigmentation wise they could be better. The more natural, nude coloured shades are very sheer. The brighter/deeper shades are better but still on the sheer side which to me is a bit disappointing. *There are a total of 12 shades in the range (6 for UK and AUS customers) YSL easily wins again with full pigmentation and a great shade range.

The staying power of these is fantastic. They last around 6+ hours straight, the glossy effect does fade a little and the colour wears down to a stain. After eating the colour goes uneven and removal and re-application is necessary. The longevity of this product unfortunately makes it extremely difficult to remove and has previously made my lips peel and also become sore and irritated. Not good.

My issue with these is how they apply, if you are someone who likes to put on your lip colour in a quick second and then walk out the door I can guarantee that these aren’t for you. They apply really unevenly; the colour is all over the place, bright in one place and sheer in another. You need to apply around 4 good coats so that the uneven colour isn’t so obvious. I have found the key to application with these is that you need to smile whilst you are applying them. Overall I don’t want to spend 10 minutes carefully applying it so that it doesn’t look terrible and YSL easily wins again.

L’Oreal Color Caresse Wet Shine Stain in *186 Berry Persistent on the lips. Note the uneven colour and the very dark patches where the colour has clung onto the dry patches.

Next of all my other gripe is that although these aren’t necessarily drying; they cling onto dry patches on the lips like mad, even ones you didn’t know you had. Even if you exfoliate + apply lip balm before it still manages to find a dry patch to cling to. I am not a fan at all on how they apply and look on the lips so this is the real deal breaker for me.

Whilst there are a few similarities between the YSL Glossy stains and the Shine Caresse glosses they are far from being dupes. The YSL may be more expensive but I would rather pay the hefty price tag for something I know I will use almost every day than something I’m not going to use as often (or at all)

L’Oreal Shine Caresse Lip Colours retail for $23.95 at Priceline, Select Pharmacies and most major department stores in Australia. $10 in the United States (trades under L’Oreal Color Caresse Wet Shine Stain) at most drugstores and £7.99 in the United Kingdom (trades under L’Oreal GlamShine Stain Splash)

*The shades 186 Berry Persistent, 188 Coral Tattoo and 185 Lilac Ever After were sent to me for consideration, other shades were purchased by me. The three shades mentioned trade under Australian and British names: 402 Milady, 200 Princess and Lolita 101. The other shades mentioned are to my knowledge not available on the Australian or British market.

This post contains a product/sample which was sent to me for editorial consideration (products are marked with *) in accordance with my d isclosure policy, this does not alter the honesty of this review or the blog, all opinions stated are honest and my own.

Makeup Tips

ddollfacee said: Hey lovely, can you tell me what the point of a toner is like the one...

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

YSL Glossy Stain Review

529) Person of colour? Translucent powders will just make you look ashy and grey. If you can: skip powder all together, but if that isn't an option because you have oily skin opt for a powder that is the same shade (or one shade lighter) than your skin-tone to set your makeup.

How to Make Your Makeup Last

digon91 said: Hi there, first of all I love your blog! I have oily/combination skin and I normally...

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!

Revlon PhotoReady Skinlights Illuminator Review + Swatches

500,000 later....

Does Chocolate Really Cause Acne?

How to Look Great Whilst Traveling

pro-zac said: What makeup products are your go-to? Like the ones you always go back to? I’m...

pro-zac said: What makeup products are your go-to? Like the ones you always go back to?

Dior Addict Gloss Review

A new look for Makeup Tips...

Does Petroleum Jelly Really Make Eyelashes Longer & Healthier?

How to Fix a Broken Powder

electr0philic asked: Could you please tell me what a C.C cream is? Is it similar to a B.B...

electr0philic asked: Could you please tell me what a C.C cream is? Is it similar to a B.B cream?

Benefit Fake Up Concealer Review

How to Tightline your Eyes

transiency asked: What makeup products would you buy if you only had $50? :) *Rimmel Match...

transiency asked: What makeup products would you buy if you only had $50? :)

528) Cloudy outside? Don't think you can ditch the SPF! Whether it is raining, snowing, cloudy or sunny UVA/UVB rays are present so slap on your SPF 30+ Broad Spectrum sunscreen and walk out the door!

L'Oreal Color Caresse Wet Shine Stain Review

electr0philic asked:
Could you please tell me what a C.C cream is? Is it similar to a B.B cream?

transiency asked:
What makeup products would you buy if you only had $50? :)