Maybelline Baby Lips - Mango Pie

What can I say, I am addicted to Baby Lips.

I know, I know, where is my self control? You have to give me some credit though, I've had to pass these little lipbalms for weeks now, seeing them all shiny and beautiful on their little hooks, calling out my name, and I resisted...until now.

Seriously though, I was going to buy a sack of potatoes, and when I saw that 2.5kg of potatoes was three bucks, I figured I could probably afford another three dollars for a beautiful lip balm that I was guaranteed to love.

I know others will love it too, because if you take a look at my top three most popular posts, you will see that they are my reviews on the other flavours in the range! That's right!

So, what do I think of this one?

It is so damn pretty! They have hit the jackpot with their designs because every one of them has sucked me in - except the Cherry one perhaps. This yellow and pink beauty looks just awesome.

Now I am a mango hater, I can't stand the things, but I really do not mind the scent of this. It doesn't seem to be as strong as my other balms but that could just be my nose. Whatever it is, it is a nice smelling balm (as expected).

The moisturising factor is the same as all my others, pretty darn good. It stays on for a long time, feels great (not too waxy etc.). You have heard it all before, and if you haven't here are three more reviews on them! Here, here and here.

They are all as good as each other, except for Cherry but that is because I am not particularly keen on the scent.

Yes, this was a bit of a lazy review but you all know how much I love these, and how much I recommend them. They are popular and are sold everywhere, so you shouldn't have much trouble finding one. Hopefully you at least enjoyed the pictures!

For those of you who have tried these, let me know your favourite one - mine is the Limited Edition one in Protecting Berry. 

Maybelline Superstay 24 hour Foundation - Sand Beige

I have been waiting to post this for what feels like weeks but hasn't really been that long. When I review a foundation I like to wait a while to get a really good idea of what it is like, after all there are so many factors one must comment on and consider when reviewing a foundation, and because they are often pricey, people like to research them beforehand.

I shall start off with the packaging. The glass bottle is something that I really quite like. It's nice and heavy and a lot classier than the alternative flexible tube packaging. It's not overly good for people who like to carry their makeup around with them and reapply because it is so heavy, but I only carry lip products around with me so it makes no difference in my eyes. The one thing that I am not pleased with is that it doesn't have a pump, you have to pour the product out. I have found that I can get a full face coverage from the little foundation that collects in the cap when you tip it upside down, so I avoid potential spillage disasters that way. Still, when it comes down to it I really couldn't care less about packaging if the product is good.

My first impressions of the foundation was that it is relatively thick, compared to other foundations I have used in the past. It dries pretty quickly so I apply it in sections over my face. If you like to dot it on everywhere and then blend it in, I think you would struggle to apply it evenly. It has what most people describe as a medium to high coverage (I personally think it is pretty high) and has a matte/satin kind of finish. It claims to have a coverage of 24 hours. I haven't tested that claim out, but I usually wear it for about 12-15 hours (without powder) and it is perfectly fine at the end of the day.

I tried it out using my fingers and a brush to apply. I much prefer to use my fingers because I can control how much product I wish to use, whereas with a brush you need to use a lot. I use this very sparingly because I don't always wish for a super high coverage. I also like this because it means that it will last me a long time and I will get my money's worth.

It feels nice on the skin and looks pretty flawless. Of course, stubborn blemishes and dark under eye circles still need to be covered using concealer, but other than that it definitely covers redness and uneven skin. It does, however, make you look at little flat and 2 dimensional. I fix this using bronzer or highlighter when I am going somewhere special, but for everyday it really doesn't bother me too much.

I found a colour that matched me well (Sand Beige) but I know others who really struggled to find a good colour match. It sticks to dry or flaky skin really badly. I have slightly oily skin, but with my skin care (which works very well) occasionally my nose gets a little flaky. This foundation sticks to it like glue which is my main problem with this foundation. You have to scrub and moisturise your face well before applying it.

I would say that it is buildable - I use very little with my fingers and can't avoid using a heck of a lot with a brush, both ways I never have trouble with a cakey look or anything like that. When buying it in the shop, it is one of those foundations that is super important to test first because the colour in the bottle is different to on your skin. It looks quite grey in the bottle.

As promised, it does withstand sweat and humidity. Even on the hottest of days it doesn't transfer onto anything or rub off in the slightest. Impressive!

It hasn't affected my skin (blemishes or irritation) at all, but then again, very few products do.

This is not a foundation that I wear everyday (well, I was so that I could review it but I won't from now on) because it is a higher coverage than I am used to, but for special occasions with a bit of highlighter it is pretty damn good. I will also wear it when my skin is playing up because it covers redness and mild blemishes well.

I give this product 7/10.

My dog wanted to help out!

Get to know me tag

I was recently tagged by TiffanyNicole from Happily Everandom for the "Get to know me" tag. I have to say, I really like the range of questions and would be interested in seeing the responses of others too.

So, let's get cracking.

1. What is your favourite beauty product that you have?
Just one, is that a joke?! I can't pick just one makeup product (I have approximately five favourites in the lip section alone!) so I will pick my Savvy brush set - I would be lost without it!

2. What was the hardest product to get your hands on?
Believe it or not, the hardest product to get (that I own) was my Lush lipscrub. There is only one Lush store close to (or reasonably close to) where I live, and I never ever go near it so it took me ages to actually getting around to driving there and purchasing it.

3. What are your favourite clothing brands?
That's tough - probably Cotton on, ICE, Factorie, Occasionally Supre is good for the basics like white T-shirts and, well, that's about it! I also get a lot of awesome clothes from Op-shops. Valleygirl is nice, Sportgirl and Dotti are good too but often you can buy similar pieces of clothing from Cotton On for a fraction of the price.

4. What is one product that you can't go without?
Lipbalm, I die without lipbalm.

5. Are you a nail polish fan and what is your favourite colour right now?
I do enjoy a bit of nail polish, but I wouldn't say it's my favourite of all things. My favourite colour at the moment is a discontinued polish (suprise, suprise!) by Innoxa called Hot Chilli! It's gorgeous and so shiny!!

6. What best describes your makeup looks most?
Definitely neutral and natural. I love the simple brown/taupe eyeshadows, a touch of bronzer, flawless skin and a bit of pink lipstick. Ahhhh

7. What's your best beauty tip that's worked for you?
Use makeup to accentuate your favourite features, not cover up supposed 'flaws.' Keep it simple and natural - the aim is to make YOU look gorgeous, not look like you are wearing stacks of makeup.

8. Are you a drugstore or high end person?
Drugstore, most definitely, purely because it is affordable. I can guarantee I would love high end though, if only I could justify spending 50-70 bucks on a lipstick or 100 dollars on an eyeshadow palette...

9. What is one drugstore product that you think tops high end?
My Savvy lipgloss. It's the perfect consistency, and even better - it's three dollars. I think you can get good drugstore lipsticks too.

10. What's your favourite perfume? *I changed this question so I hope that is okay
I absolutely love my Marc Jacobs Daisy Eau So Fresh perfume, it's so good!

11. What's your favourite hairstyle right now?
Long and loose waves/slight curls

I tag anyone who wants to do it! I would love to read your responses.

Essence Lipstick - All about cupcake

I had seen the Essence ‘All about Cupcake’ lipstick mentioned in numerous hauls and monthly favourite posts and youtube videos, but I hadn’t actually read an in-depth review on it. When I made a trip out to Target to purchase some Essence products, this was on the top of my list.

This lipstick cost $3.95 and it was actually the only lipstick left that hadn’t been torn open and smushed into the lid and various other cosmetics (don’t you hate people who do that?) The whole cosmetics stand, in fact, had been pulled apart and the contents sprinkled/smushed/plastered/dripped all over the other cosmetics, except for this magical lipstick and the Ballerina Backstage section of the stand.

For those that are unaware of how Essence compares to other brands here in Australia, I will give you a quick overview. The Essence prices are pretty much on par with BYS products (approximately $4 for a lipstick, the same price as an average coffee). Australis lipsticks are about $12.95, Maybelline lipsticks at $16.95 and Loreal lipsticks at $24.95, so Essence is cheap cheap cheap! They have a small range of products in comparison to brands like Maybelline and Rimmel London, and are only sold at Target stores (a pain for us Priceline lovers!). I have only tried two Essence products, but I feel comfortable making the prediction that for the same price as BYS, the products are of a better quality (and from reviews I have read and watched, I get the feeling that the quality of the products in more consistent throughout, completely unlike BYS products.)

The tube is an average size with the cap on, but when you take the cap off you see that unlike other lipsticks which extend into the cap, this one stops halfway. It’s not the sturdiest packaging I have ever seen, but it is one thousand times better than the BYS lipstick packaging. It also has a sticker on the bottom showing the colour which I like. Even better, the colour of the tube changes according to the product too, which is unlike any other brand I am aware of.

The colour of this lipstick doesn’t appear to be all that incredible in the tube, which is exactly why I love it. When you apply it you get a choice of super sheer, or you can build it up. The natural pink colour is incredible, and gives your lips a juicy, glossy, plump and moisturised look. It’s one of those, ‘your lips but better’ products that you can keep in your handbag and wear for any occasion. Whenever I am not sure what to wear, in a hurry or just want an instant ‘makeover’ this is the lipstick I slap on. It’s gorgeous! It is also pretty long lasting.

The formula is so creamy and moisturising, and my goodness it smells amazing. I could smell it all day. It is identical to the fragrance of the strawberries and cream lollies, with a bit of marshmallow mixed in. Best part is that it lingers even once applied. If only it tasted how it smelled…

In full sunlight

So like the eye soufflé I recently reviewed, this is one of those products that have stolen my heart and I think will be a favourite for a long time. At only four dollars, this lipstick is so worth running out and purchasing – I will definitely be getting more!

I’m going to have to give this product 10/10.

In shade

I've been getting creative on photoshop!

Polka Dot Nails

Polka dot nails have been doing the rounds on the beauty blogs lately, especially as it is Easter! I had been wearing Rimmel London's 60 polish in 'Instyle Coral' for about four days and was bored of it, so this morning I decided I may as well make it more interesting and give it some polka dots!

It was really easy to do and it took me no time at all. I don't love the look, but I think it is a nice change from my usual, plain, boring nails.

I saw some family this morning and their reaction to my nails was, well, not overly positive! "What on Earth happened to your nails?" "Was that on purpose or by accident?" (Oh yes, because I could totally end up with evenly spaced polka dots on my nail by accident!) "Are you trying to look ridiculous?"

Yes, they were the responses I got regarding my nails!

I want to know what you guys think, because when I did this I didn't think much of it, but after seeing some of the family who absolutely hated it, I started to wonder.

I mean sure, you might not love it, but I didn't think anyone would be repulsed by it! It's not that bad is it?

Essence Eye Souffle - Pas Des Copper

I have been wearing this eyeshadow everyday for about a week, and I have to say - I think I'm in love! To make it even better, not only am I in love but my mother and a couple of my friends are too! Yes, this is just that good.

As mentioned in my Maybelline Dream Eyeshadow review, I was always quite hesitant about cream eyeshadows and whether it was worth it or not. Was it just going to crease, was it going to slide off my eyes within the first hour or so, was it going to work with my other eyeshadows...oh the worries I had! I can safely say that I have made a decision - I like cream eyeshadows more than I like powder eyeshadows. Yes, it's true. I have converted, and it is all thanks to this product.

Yes, there are more powder eyeshadows than cream and there is a larger range of colours. Yes, powder eyeshadows are more convenient to apply and carry around. Yes, you can have palettes of powder eyeshadows. Despite this, I still like cream eyeshadows more, well, at least this one anyway.

This cream eyeshadow, or eye souffle, in the shade Pas Des Copper, comes from the German brand Essence which is brand spanking new to Australia. After seeing praise over various beauty blogs and youtube videos I decided that I could probably be part of the action and test a couple of things out too. Because Essence cosmetics are only sold at Target it took me a while to get motivated to make a special trip out there. When I finally ended up standing there looking at all the products, I had absolutely no idea what to get. I had read a little review or two on the 'Ballerina Backstage' range of products, in particular the eye souffles. I could only see two shades so I picked up the Copper one and hoped I was going along the right track.

It was only when I got home that I realised how gorgeous the colour actually was. When I posted my haul I mentioned how it was similar to the Maybelline Dream Eyeshadow, but I have since realised that whilst it is similar, it is actually much better (I know, who would have thought it could get any better!) The colour is richer and more pigmented, more shimmery and has more of a 'wow factor.'

It sticks to my eyelids like glue. I can wear it for 12-14 hours and when I go to take it off about 80% of it is still there, which is much better than most of my other eyeshadows. It doesn't crease, it doesn't feel sticky, and my favourite part is that it is so easy to apply. Just one swipe across the lid using my finger is enough. I feel comfortable wearing it just by itself, but it also works well with crease colours and highlight eyeshadows too. I can combine it with powder shadows with no problems.

The texture is just perfect, and I can't get over how pigmented the shadow is! It's incredible! The only problem that I have is that there are so few eyeshadows in the range (there are only three) and the other two are matte, in black and white.

I am a fan of the packaging, although it is difficult to see the colour without opening the lid which can be problematic when you are in a rush in the morning and are trying to find a particular shade. Nevertheless, I do like the packaging of this product.

After reading this (hopefully) you will be thinking to yourself "Wow, this sounds like the best product in the world, I must run out and buy it! I will pay for it no matter how much it costs, even if it empties my bank account!" Well I have news for you - this eyeshadow cost me....$4.50. That's approximately the cost of a coffee these days!

 My mother and a couple of friends noticed me wearing it and went out and bought it for themselves! Just goes to show that it must be pretty good!

I do recommend you investigate this eyeshadow, which I rate as 10/10, for the price and the quality is incredible. Even if you hate it, or you find that you are unlucky and for some reason it doesn't stick on your eyelids or the shimmer is too much for you, it won't be a huge loss of money.



The swatch on the right (obviously!)

Sunset inspired eyes

You know how sometimes things just creep up on you unexpectedly and then give you are big surprise? That's what happened to me the other night when I just so happened to open my curtains and look out the window. Look what sight I was greeted with! Isn't it just gorgeous?

Anyway, I was inspired by the beautiful colours and decided to try and recreate the look using eyeshadow. I am not particularly good at 'recreating looks' that have inspired me (okay, I'm useless at it!) but I figured I may as well post it anyway - then you can all have a laugh!

I will stick up for myself and say that the oranges and yellows were brighter and more exciting in real life (not so that they looked awful, but to a nicer degree of colour).  The purple along the lower lash line came up pretty well though.

A couple of these photos are a bit creepy! Hopefully they allow you to see the look at bit better though!

Starting out with makeup - Brushes

I received really positive responses from everyone in my last two "Starting out with makeup" posts (see here and here) so thankyou all for your kind and helpful comments!

I don't think brushes are absolutely essential at the start when beginning your makeup collection, but I will list some of the most useful ones anyway in case you are interested. They no doubt make things a lot easier and I find them a lot of fun to play with! The only problem is that often they are the most expensive aspects of makeup!

Eyeshadow brush
Often eyeshadow palettes come with brushes (or sponges). I cannot stand the sponge type applicators, so I highly recommend you purchase a brush if need be, even if it is a real cheapie.
I recommend - Sportsgirl Eyeshadow Brush - $3.95

Kabuki brush
These brushes can be used to apply setting powder, foundation and blend out blush or bronzer for a more even, natural look. I love my Kabui brush and wouldn't be able to do without it.
I recommend - Avon all over Kabuki brush - $4.99

Blush brush
A blush brush is only required if you use blush (of course!). I like flat blush brushes personally.
I recommend - Savvy by DB blush brush (comes in set) (Approx $10)

Eyebrow brush (with comb)
These brushes are so cheap and so useful. They groom your eyebrows and separate lashes after applying mascara. There is no particular brand that I recommend, but just go to any cheap shop and pick on up for a dollar or two.

Q-tipsTechnically not a brush, these little things are amazing! I use them for so many things - cleaning up mascara, eyeshadow, lipstick, concealer...applying highlighter to my inner corners, smudging. They are amazing! Cheap Q-tips can be found pretty much anywhere!

Other possible brushes

Flat foundation brush
Lots of people don't like applying their foundation with these type brushes but I really don't mind. I tend to use my fingers purely because I am lazy and can't be bothered washing it, but if you want to get one...
I recommend - Eco tools bamboo foundation brush (Unsure of price)

Lip brush
Lip brushes are really useful when applying red lipstick or really pigmented glosses. When you want a precise application, lip brushes are your best friends.
I recommend - Australis retractable lip brush - $7.95

Angled Eyeliner brush
I actually don't own an angled eyeliner brush because I have never felt the need for one, however I know others love them for applying eyeliner and filling in their brows.

Angled contouring brush
I use an angled contouring brush whenever I apply bronzer. I love how it is angled because it makes it easier to apply the product in the hollows of my cheeks.
I recommend - Savvy by DB Angled contouring brush (Comes in set) (Approx $10)

Concealer brush
Concealer brushes make an unbelievable difference. They apply the product evenly and get concealer into the creases between your nose.
I recommend - Savvy by DB Concealer brush (Comes in set) (Approx $10)

So, I hope these three posts have been helpful in some way to those of you unsure of brushes or starting out with makeup.

Starting out with makeup - Products

In my last post I listed some tips for those starting out with makeup. In this post I am listing some products that I recommend.

So, these are the makeup products that I would recommend as the starting points to your makeup collection. Obviously everyone is different, and someone might think bronzer is essential, and someone else may think it is not at all necessary. I have listed them in no particular order. I have also listed cheap options for each.


Face

Foundation/Tinted Moisturiser
I began with a tinted moisturiser and I never really felt the need for foundation when I was first starting out. If you are young or comfortable with your skin I would suggest skipping it all together, but if you would like a light coverage then a tinted moisturiser is the way to go. There are some foundations that I have found to be so light that I would consider them to be tinted moisturiser. Make sure you always test the shades out on your skin before buying them - there is nothing worse than an orange foundation line! Try purchasing products with SPF if you can.
I recommend: This is the one product I actually cannot give any cheaper suggestions for. I would love to hear if you know of any good, cheap foundations/tinted moisturisers!

Concealer
Another product that I recommend skipping if you can, concealer suits people with blemishes or dark under-eye circles. Ensure that you choose a concealer specific to your needs (blemishes or circles) and this is one product I would recommend spending a little more on if you can. You want it to stick all day, match your skin tone perfectly and cover the problem up, not make it more noticeable.
I recommend: Maybelline Dream Lumi touch highlighting concealer - Approx $18
(A little expensive perhaps, but so worth it!)

Blush/Bronzer
Once again this is one of those products that people have differing opinions on. Some think it is absolutely essential, others think it is a waste. I personally think either blush or bronzer is important because it gives you a bit of colour that you otherwise wouldn't have (if you are wearing foundation). With blush, make sure the colour suits your skin tone - it makes a huge difference.With bronzer, use matter bronzers for contouring and more shimmery ones for a subtle glow. Ensure to research how to apply bronzer/blush on youtube if you are unsure, and make sure you apply it lightly.
I recommend: BYS Blusher $4.95
                       Savvy Jumbo Bronzer (Approx $10, often on sale)


 Eyes

Mascara
Mascara is one of those products that makes a huge difference if you get the right one. This is one of those products that you need to look up reviews for. You need to know what you want too - lengthening, volumising, thickening, defining, waterproof, separating, curling, brown/black...the options are never ending.
I recommend - Covergirl Lashblast Length Waterproof mascara (prices vary from $10-$20)

Eyeshadow
When I first began with makeup I didn't wear eyeshadow. I don't think it is necessary, but if you would like to wear eyeshadow, go for neutral shades. Cream eyeshadows are easy to apply and don't require brushes.
I recommend - Essence Eye Souffle ($4.50)

Lips

Lip balm
I think lip balms are absolutely essential. They moisturise and protect, and provide a good base for lipstick and lipgloss. Clear lipglosses are good, but tinted ones provide both colour and moisture.
I recommend - Maybelline Baby Lips lipbalm - $3.95 (clear)
                         Nivea Fruity Shine Pink Guava - (Approx $4) (tinted)

Lip gloss
Lip gloss was one of my essentials when I first started. Go for sheer, light pink colours that make your lips look juicy. Try to apply it carefully, you don't want it dripping down your chin!
I recommend - Savvy by DB lip jewels gloss - (Approx $6)
                        Nivea lipglosses - (Between $4-$7)

Lipstick
I never wore lipstick when I first started out, but for those who are interested, these are the cheap lipsticks I would recommend.
I recommend - BYS lipstick ($3-$4)
                         Essence lipstick ($3.95)

These are products that I consider to be unnecessary when starting out. I own all of these, and I'm not going to pretend that I don't love them, but they aren't required when you are first starting out.
They are: Primers (face and eyes)
                Eyelash curler
                Highlighter/Illuminator
                Setting powder
                Foundation brush
                Eyeliner

                Lip scrub
                Eyebrow pencils
                False eyelashes

Once again, people have differing opinions on what is essential and what is not. I hope that you found some of this useful, and if you are interested you can read the reviews I have done on the suggested products.

When purchasing products in the beginning it  can be a little expensive as you are buying so many things at once. Remember that you don't need a thousand blushes or mascaras to create a beautiful makeup look. If you buy a good product in a shade that you love, you won't need to purchase another one until you run out. By making good decisions you can achieve wonderful looks really cheaply.

Starting out with makeup - Tips and Tricks

*This is going to be a series of posts as I have so much to say! My apologies if you are not interested in these kinds of posts, but there won't be too many! Posting will resume as normal afterwards!*

When I first started my makeup collection, I turned to friends, my mother and youtube videos as a guide of where to start and what to buy. I began with no brushes or any other tools whatsoever, and I actually didn't buy any brushes for about a year. I had absolutely no idea what I was doing and as a result tended not to wear any makeup at all.

So, I thought that I might do a post of starting out with makeup - what you need, things to remember, brands to buy and where to learn more. Of course this post will not be helpful to most of you because you are all experienced beauty bloggers, but hopefully someone will find this helpful.

I personally don't think there is a particular 'age' that you have to be to wear makeup, but I do think that when you are young less makeup always looks better. Always. Try and stick to neutral shades of everything - eyeshadow, lipstick, blush, bronzer etc. Apply your makeup lightly and keep everything as natural looking as possible. As you get better and become more experienced try out new products, fun colours and bold looks.

Purchase most of your makeup from cheap brands when starting out so that you don't waste a heap of money on products you find to be useless. BYS and Essence have some really cheap products and really good quality products too. Saying that, every brand has its dodgy products so don't give up if you happen to pick up a dud. As you learn what you love, branch out into the more expensive brands that are well known for their quality products, like Maybelline, Rimmel London and Revlon.

Look up reviews on products before you buy them. Online reviews are incredibly helpful and an determine whether you end up with an incredible Holy Grail product or the worst waste of money you will ever come across.

Know what makeup looks you like. Look at makeup styles celebrities wear and try and imitate that. Make sure that they suit you - if you have light skin and blonde hair, makeup on a dark skinned brown-haired celebrity may not suit you.

Look up tutorials and makeup looks on youtube. There are so many incredible beauty gurus who can tell you everything about products and applying your makeup. Watch and learn!

Keep an eye out for sales at Priceline and other makeup stores. I have bought some pricey items so cheaply, just by watching out for sales and making the most of "three for the price of one" kind of deals.

Next post I will list makeup products to start out with, and brushes or other tools you can use should you feel the need.