Beauty Newness: Revlon, Clarins & LA Girl

Well, my purchases this month have certainly been eclectic. From high-end skincare to absolute budget makeup, my purchases have (mostly) filled me with joy. Here are my thoughts on the following:

Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Darling Cherie (010)

Only recently having ventured into lip crayon territory, I was super excited to try out this product (although it’s been out for a REALLY long time).  I got this on sale at Dis-Chem for R 65, but the product is generally R 130 a pop. Revlon promise ” softer, smoother lips with a perfect flush of color that lasts hour after hour.”

…The product falls short on all of these claims. The gel formula isn’t particularly moisturising or long-lasting. I much prefer buttery formulas for lip crayons.Another downer is the peppermint scent, flavour and sensation. Revlon, if I want minty fresh all up in my face, I’ll chew gum.

What I love is the truly unique colour, somewhere between lavender, violet and bubblegum pink on the lips. The range of shades is gorgeous – 12 colours ranging from a stunning nude (Honey) to a deep, rich red (Romantic). Still, would I buy it again? …Meh.

Quick Q: I’ve heard the ColorBurst Lacquer Balms are much better. Does anyone have any feedback?

Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner

The tamarind-white nettle scent alone is worth the R 340 (Dis-Chem) price tag and in the less-than-a-week that I have owned this, it’s given my skincare game a massive boost. As I have dry skin, regular exfoliants containing granules or microbeads thin the skin and just exacerbate the situation. A mild chemical exfoliant was in order…and this time, I splurged.

It contains all the AHA goodies: glycolic, salicylic and tartaric acid, but in quantities that won’t melt your face off. The exfoliation takes place on a level invisible to the naked eye. Although it says this toner should only be used 1-2 times per week, it’s just Clarins covering their asses in case irritation occurs. I find it perfectly suited to everyday use. I can feel my skin absorbing moisturiser better after this toner, my complexion is brighter and my skin is soft and hydrated.

LA Girl Pro Conceal HD Pro Concealer in Classic Ivory

This product has stolen my HEART. I actually never owned a concealer and wanted to purchase MAC Pro Longwear in NW20, but I’m so glad for my pocket they were out of stock. LA Pro Conceal in Classic Ivory is a peachy shade perfect for neutralising under-eye circles. It looks far darker in the tube than when actually applied, so don’t be put off if you’re fair-skinned.

It comes in an unhygienic squeezy tube with a brush at the end, but I just squeeze the product onto my (clean) hand and use it with my Sigma F70. It lasts ALL DAY without creasing, which is the most important thing to look out for in a concealer. Best of all? It costs all of R 40. It’s avilable in many different shades, so go, go, go!

Which new beauty products have YOU invested in? I’d love to hear about your favourites.

xx Shan

Drugstore Mascaras: Select your effect

Having too many choices and too little cash is a predicament faced by every beauty junkie. When it comes to mascaras, there are multiple products with multiple effects. To make your life simpler, I’ve broken down the best drugstore mascaras into the categories of volume, length and definition. Whatever you’re looking for, it’s on this list:

VOLUME

GOSH Cosmetics Boombastic XXL Volume Mascara: I’ve already sung the praises of this mascara in Drugstore Picks: GOSH Cosmetics. Although labelled as a volume mascara, it’s a great all-rounder that also gives great length and definition. The buildable, clump-free and glossy formula is to die for! (R 140 at Edgars stores)

The Body Shop Super Volume Mascara: This mascara is my second-in-command, after my darling GOSH Boombastic XXL Volume Mascara. This mascara gives clump-free volume without flaking, smudging or running during the day. It’s even safe to wear on your bottom lashes (R 120 at TBS stores).

Maybelline Volum’ Express The Colossal Smoky Mascara: For this list, I’ve chosen the Smoky Eyes version of The Colossal. Many other versions are out there, but this one is the best by far, in my opinion. It has kohl colour pigments, the sultry pigment present in  black eyeliner, which bulk up lashes to deliver big, smoky volume (R 119.95 at Dis-Chem)

LENGTH

Rimmel Lash Accelerator Endless Mascara: A two-in-one mascara and lash treatment. The formula contains growth ingredients procapil and keratin, as well as micro-fibres to make your lashes instantly appear longer (R 129 on Zando).

Revlon Grow Luscious Lash Potion Mascara: I simply LOVE the glitzy packaging on this one, but my love for this mascara is more than surface deep. The thick but easy-going formula instantly lengthens lashes and contains strengthening proteins to help lashes grow luscious (SALE PRICE: R 109 on Takealot).

Maybelline Define-A-Lash Lengthening Mascara: My personal favourite out of these three lengthening mascaras, the clump-free formula creates stunning length without weighing your lashes down. For me, this mascara gives the most natural lengthening finish, as the formula is extremely lightweight (SALE PRICE: R 97 on Takealot).

DEFINITION

Maybelline Illegal Definition Mascara: For me, the point of a defining mascara is a natural, eye-opening look. This mascara delivers just that and is perfect for daytime wear. Lashes are defined, but without that brittle, spider-leg look that some defining mascaras create (R 96.95 at Dis-Chem)

Revlon Lash Fantasy Total Definition Mascara: This mascara provides amazing clump-free definition and a HD finish suited to dramatic night-time wear. How does it work? The mascara tube is double-ended. The one wand is a primer and the other the mascara: the combo creates the ULTIMATE definition (I wasn’t able to find the price for this one, but it should be around the R 150 mark).

Essence Maximum Definition Volume Mascara: A volume-definition duo, this mascara is a cheapie that packs quite an impact. The flexible, synthetic brush captures even the tiniest of lashes and brings them into the mix, creating natural-looking definition and volume (R 45 on Takealot)

What’s your ultimate drugstore mascara?

xx Shan

Drugstore Favourites: Maybelline

My foray into drugstore products is fairly recent, so I’m only now appreciating the majesty that is Maybelline (and so dirt cheap too!) Here are my 4 favourite picks from the Maybelline range which are super effective yet won’t break the bank:

1. Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush

Boing, boing! I was skeptical of the hype at first, but this blush really is bouncy. It also gives the loveliest sheer coverage, although the lasting power isn’t great. The remedy is as simple as wearing a primer underneath. The colours also show up lighter on the skin than they are in the compact, so don’t be afraid to go for the darker shades. My favourite is the seductive Plum Wine, which gives a surprisingly subtle finish.

R 89.95 at major retailers and pharmacies.

2. Maybelline Baby Lips Lip Balm

I’m absolutely in love with the tinted Maybelline Baby Lips range, particularly Pink Punch which leaves lips a soft bubblegum shade. I’m yet to try out the purple tinted Grape Vine, but I can’t wait, as I’m a sucker for purple lip colour. Not only does Baby Lips give lips a sheer, gorgeous tint, the product truly leaves softer thanks to Shea butter and Vitamin E. They’re quite difficult to get a-hold of due to to their cult popularity, so buy ’em if you see ’em.

R 29.95 at major retailers and pharmacies. Say whaaaaat?

3. Maybelline Great Lash Mascara

A legend of the mascara world, Maybelline Great Lash frequently makes it onto Holy Grail product lists. Great Lash was actually the first mascara I ever bought, but my love for the product is more than sentimental. Great Lash gives clump-free, dramatic definition and volume and is available in both waterproof and washable formulas. Personally, I go for the washable, as it’s so damn difficult to get the stuff off without murdering your lashes. Or maybe I’m just lazy…

R 90 at major retailers and pharmacies.

4. Maybelline Colour Show Nail Polish

An amazing range of colours that are great quality and affordably priced. These are my favourite budget nail polishes for sure. At the moment, I’m in love with Wine and Forever: a deep, rich wine red that I profiled for Beauty Bulletin in my article on the Pantone Colour of the Year (Marsala). Do yourself a favour and buy this gorgeous on-trend shade!

R 39.95 at major retailers and pharmacies.

YOU COULD GET THIS WHOLE HAUL FOR R 250!

So, get buying. Duh.

Have you tried any of these out? What’s your favourite Maybelline product?

xx Shan

Drugstore Favourites: GOSH Cosmetics

Today, I’ve chosen to focus on one of my favourite drugstore brands: GOSH Cosmetics. The brand hails from Denmark and has some products that could easily give higher-end brands a run for their money. As an added bonus, many of the products are vegan and NOTHING is tested on animals. What’s not to love?

Without further ado, here are my 4 favourite products from GOSH Cosmetics:

1. GOSH Cosmetics BB Cream

GOSH Cosmetics describe their BB Cream as an “all-in-one” foundation, primer and moisturiser that gives “a natural coverage that adapts to the skin tone.” Well, I wouldn’t go as far as to say that you can forget about your primer and moisturiser, but it’s a damn fine specimen of a BB Cream. GOSH BB Cream does indeed give sheer natural coverage, but here’s why I actually love this product: It is the most perfect colour match I have ever encountered.

As a vampirically pale human, I chose the shade 01 Sand. It’s difficult to find foundation for cool-toned fair skin in South Africa, as cosmetics buyers seem to think that EVERYONE has peachy undertones. If you’re on the ghostly pallor spectrum, be sure to get your hands on this product.

2. GOSH Cosmetics Lip Lacquer

I own this product in 007 Hot Lips, a beautiful cherry red that goes on sheer, making it perfect for daytime or office wear. The texture is lightweight, smooth and not very tacky, meaning that frequent reapplications are required. BUT I DON’T MIND.

I normally hate lip lacquers and glosses, but even sticky-feeling-haters will be totally in love with this product. The fact that the product is watermelon-scented ups its cool factor by 1000 points. The scent reminds me of chewing gum I used to eat as a child, and I’m a sentimental creature.

3. GOSH Cosmetics Forever Eye Shadow Stick

This product. Tattoos. Your Eyelids. Forever-ever.

I have never found an eye shadow with as much staying power as this humble eye shadow stick. It’s lovely and smudgy and blendable, so you can wear it as a sheer wash or exploit the full pigmentation. The eye shadow stick can even be worn as eye liner and is waterline-friendly. My only qualm is that metallic shades are the only ones available at the moment (I own it in 05 Grey). A matte GOSH Cosmetics Forever Eye Shadow stick would be unstoppable!

4. GOSH Cosmetics Boombastic XXL Volume Mascara

Not so much happens on the volume side of things, but the length and definition this true-black mascara provides are seriously ‘boombastic.’

The bristles on the mascara wand are very close together and disperse the product evenly and without clumps.  The formula doesn’t harm my sensitive eyes and is lightweight enough to be buildable. I apply about four coats every morning for maximum effect – it has amazing lasting power and would give many high-end mascaras a run for their money.

Have you tried GOSH Cosmetics products? If so, what’s your favourite?

xx Shan

The Best Drugstore Foundations Under R 200

Foundation: We all need it, but don’t get caught up in the common belief that it has to cost the earth to be effective. Here are the 5 best drugstore foundations available in South Africa, all costing less than R 200:

 

1. NYX Stay Matte But Not Flat Liquid Foundation (R 149.95 at Clicks)

This liquid foundation provides full coverage with a matte finish, but is both oil- and water-based and perfect for oily, breakout-prone skins. It’s mineral-enriched, meaning those with drier skins will definitely need to moisturise before and after use. I’ve also heard rumours of it not lasting a full-day, so use it with a high-end primer for best results. As an added bonus, it’s cruelty-free.

2. GOSH Cosmetics Natural Touch Foundation (R 32.95 at Edgars and Red Square)

Danish brand GOSH Cosmetics just get it right again and again, both in the price and quality stakes. I literally cannot believe the price, but I checked it up on Red Square’s website so it has to be true.  The formula is lightweight and gives a soft, natural coverage. This isn’t one for the ladies with problem skins. The pump action top means that the product stays bacteria-free, which is always a great feature. It contains organic almond oil to moisturise the skin and Vitamin A & E to fight free radicals. Plus, it’s not tested on animals. What’s not to love?

 3. Revlon ColorStay Whipped Crème Makeup (Starting price R 199 at major retailers and pharmacies)

The first of the cream foundations on my list, Revlon ColorStay Whipped Crème Makeup has a light, silky texture and provides all-day wear without icky flaking, caking or heaviness. Cream foundations like this one are the perfect choice if you have normal, dry or very dry skin, as they are oil-based. When you experience drier skin in winter months, switching to a cream foundation can work wonders and keep skin soft and hydrated when worn with a moisturiser.

4. The Body Shop All-In-One Face Base (R 195 at The Body Shop stores)

Is it a cream? Is it a powder? Well, it has the benefits of both and it’s pretty affordable. The combined powder and foundation gives a velvety, matte texture. Coverage can be either heavy or light: use the product dry for light coverage and wet for heavier coverage. Generally, powder foundations are recommended for those with oilier skins, but this hybrid product doesn’t dry skin out in the conventional powder way. Warning: Using the product wet may lead to clumping, meaning you’ll always have to use it wet. Like all The Body Shop products, it’s cruelty-free.

 5. Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse (Starting price R 160.95 at major retailers and pharmacies)

This was my holy grail product as a teenager, but my recommendation is more than just sentimental. This cream foundation is light and fluffy and applies without being cakey. Formulated with jojoba oil, Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse locks in moisture for a dewy glow to the skin. A little of this product goes a long way, so take care not to be too heavy-handed.

NOTE: Wash your hands first if you’re using your fingers to apply Revlon ColorStay Whipped Crème Makeup or Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse, as the little pots easily become breeding grounds for bacteria. This is where squeeze tubes and pump mechanisms come in handy.

What’s your favourite drugstore foundation?

xx Shan

The 3 Best Cleansers For Dry Skin

Confession: I went two years without using any cleansing products on my face, just luke-warm water in the shower. I imagine you must be thinking: “WHY ON EARTH, you crazy lady?” Well, such are the dry skin blues. Any and every cleanser made my skin feel tight and uncomfortable and regular cleansing made my face all flaky and gross. But it all changed when I discovered these three products…

1. Lipidol Cleansing Face Oil

This is currently one of my hero products. Oils for your face might seem counter-intuitive, but science actually backs this one up. Cleansing oils work on the principle of like dissolving like: impurities bind to the oil and can be washed away, but without stripping the skin of much-needed moisture. This makes Lipidol Cleansing Face Oil a safe bet for those suffering from dry skin. The oil turns into a light, milky foam upon contact with water and my skin is left feeling soft, supple and most of all…clean. Plus, the rosemary-niaouli scent is just delicious.

Available for R 79.99 at Clicks.

2. Annique Face Facts Crystal Clear Cleanser

I tend to steer clear of foaming cleansers as I’ve only had bad experiences, but I used this product for many months with magnificent results. While Annique Face Facts Crystal Clear Cleanser looks like a traditional cleanser, it doesn’t leave your face feeling tight and icky. I put this down to the main ingredient that Annique products are famous for: rooibos tea. When the tea is applied topically, it relieves itchy skin like nothing else. Annique Face Facts Crystal Clear Cleanser is packed full of this natural goodness. Besides being a brilliant yet gentle cleanser, this product contains fruit acids for gradual chemical exfoliation to promote a smooth and even skin tone. What’s not to love?

Available at selected salons and through the Annique website for R 139.

3. Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Lotion

Ideal for sensitive skins, Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Lotion is unscented and non-irritating. The cream formula means skin is not stripped of natural oils and moisture, essential to those suffering from dry skin. This cleanser is so gentle that it doubles up as an eye makeup remover, even on the waterline, so you’re keeping squeaky clean AND saving money.

Available at pharmacies and online at Health Cart for R 176.90

Do you suffer from dry skin? If so, what’s your go-to cleanser?

xx Shan

Review: Kiehl’s Super Fluid UV Defense SPF 50+

Kiehl’s Super Fluid UV Defense SPF 50+ is described as “oil-free, ultra-lightweight”, providing “long-lasting broad-spectrum protection” against both UVA and UVB rays. For the best results, Kiehl’s recommends layering the sunscreen over your moisturiser.

Kiehl’s claims are pretty damn accurate. Kiehl’s Super Fluid UV Defense SPF 50+ is more lightweight than any sunscreen I have ever used before. The milky, fluid texture means that it spreads well and evenly across the face, making it the ideal product for wearing under makeup. Just be sure to wait 20 minutes before putting your face on to ensure that the SPF 50+ doesn’t lose its efficiency through dilution. Another sun protection tip: Shake the product before to ensure you make the most of the high protection factor, as the lightweight texture means the product is non-homogenous.

The protection against both UVA and UVB rays is a goodie, as many sunscreens neglect UVB rays. While UVA rays cause skin ageing, it’s UVB rays that actually burn us. As overexposure to either of these rays can damage the skin, selecting a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB is a beauty necessity.

Some other great features include:

• Kiehl’s Super Fluid UV Defense SPF 50+ leaves no icky white cast to interfere with your makeup.
• The product leaves your face with minimal shine, with the semi-matte texture helping you achieve a dewy look.
• No sunscreen smell! The product is unscented and won’t clash with your daily fragrance or aggravate sensitive skin.

Some not-so-great features:

• Paula Begoun, cosmetics guru extraordinaire, describes Kiehl’s Super Fluid UV Defense SPF 50+  as an overpriced “very basic, ultimately disappointing sunscreen.” I couldn’t disagree more. At R 439, the price may be more than a little steep, but the fabulous non-gloopy makes it entirely worth it.
• Another negative aspect that Paula touches on is the fact that the product contains alcohol, an irritant that dries out the skin and causes free radical damage. I suffer from dry skin and have used this product for a few months with no adverse effects. Once again, just be sure to apply moisturiser beforehand.

Have you tried this product? If not, what’s your go-to sun screen?

xx Shan

Summer Skin Secrets

2014 may be over, but warm weather is here to stay in sunny South Africa. Here are the ultimate tips for flawless skin this summer.

1. Use a gentle exfoliator daily before your moisturiser. Exfoliation removes dull, tired skin and allows for deeper hydration. Microbeads and granules are too harsh on your skin for daily use. Choose a product with chemical exfoliant salicyclic acid. Not only is salicyclic acid a gentle exfoliant, it slows down the ageing process without making your skin more sensitive to sunlight.

Recommended: Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner is an exfoliating lotion formulated with fruit acids that eliminates impurities that dull skin, leaving skin brighter and smoother. R 340 at Clarins counters nationwide.

2. As the temperature rises, a detoxifying clay mask is necessary once or twice a week. Pores are more visible in hot weather and clay masks draw water and oil out of your skin, temporarily tightening skin and making pores appear smaller.

Recommended: The Body Shop Seaweed Ionic Clay Mask is the product to get rid of those pesky pores this summer. Available at The Body Shop stores for R 155.

3. Keep skin hydrated on-the-go with a facial mist. When you sweat, you lose the minerals required for healthy skin. Facial mist replenishes these minerals and leaves skin looking dewy.

Recommended: Clinique Moisture Surge Face Spray keeps skin refreshed throughout the day. Available through http://www.clinique.co.za for R 320.

4. Use an oil-free suncream daily, a minimum of SPF 30 for sunny South Africa under your makeup and on all exposed areas. The SPF 15 or 20 in your primer or BB Cream is simply not enough protection for our climate. The correct amount to apply is a teaspoon’s worth of product on your face and a shotglass worth of product on your body. Don’t neglect your hair line and parting.

Recommended: Kiehl’s Super Fluid UV Defence SPF50+ is oil-free and ultra-light, perfect for wearing under makeup. Available from Kiehl’s stockists for R 439.

5. When selecting a self tanner to get that perfect summer glow, choose one that contains levels of self-tan specifically formulated for your complexion shade. Self-tanners contain DHA, a sugar that interacts with the surface of your skin and gives it a golden glow. An unsightly orange tint occurs when your skin is oversaturated with DHA, if you apply too much product or use a self-tanner containing too much DHA for your skin type.

Recommended: Caribbean Gradual Tan In A Can Self Tan comes in three different intensities. A is for fair skin, B is for medium and C is for dark. The mousse formula promises no dirty patches, streaking or orange hands. Available at selected pharmacies and retailers for R 94.

 

Summer Trend: Pineapples

Without a doubt, the pineapple is the emblem of Summer 2015. The spiny yellow fruit is popping up everywhere in décor, fashion and beauty. Here are my 12 pineapple picks for your home, wardrobe and beauty arsenal:

Pineapple tea light holder from Woolworths Home. R 120.

Pineapple ice tray from Mr Price Home. R 39.99

Pineapple print cushion cover from Woolworths Home. R 160.

Ceramic pineapple storage jar from Mr Price Home. R 249.99.

Style Republic Pineapple print boxy t-shirt from Spree. R 230.

Pineapple drop earrings from Mr Price. R 25.99.

FABRIC Pineapple Print maxi skirt from Spree. R 550.

Brass pineapple ring from Dear Rae. R 385.

MAC Chrome Yellow Eyeshadow. R 195. (Currently not available online, only in MAC stores)

OPI Nail Varnish in Just Can’t Cope-acabana. R 199.

Dr Hauschka Daily Hydrating Eye Cream. R 500. (As an ingredient, pineapple extract has an uplifting, calming effect and improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.)

Dior Kiss Luscious Lip Plumping Gloss in Pineapple Cocktail. R 290.

Which of my pineapple picks is your favourite?

xx Shan

Want-It Wednesday: 7 January 2015

My first edition of Want-It Wednesday, where I discuss the products I’m lusting after, is skincare-dominated. I simply can’t wait to get my hands on Environ Intensive Retinol 2 and The Body Shop’s long-handled cactus bath brush. Of course, I’m always looking to add to my makeup collection, so I’ve also had my eye on Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner.

Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

What?

It is absolutely shocking that I DO NOT OWN black liquid liner. Blue? Yes. Brown? Yes. Turquoise, even? Yes. But no black. It’s clearly time for Stila to make an entrance. Stila’s waterproof liquid liner pen sounds like a solid option: easy application, long-lasting and quick to dry.

Why?

All the reviews I’ve read of this product have been favourable. I’m promised no smudges, feathering or running. I’m keen to try out a pen liner as well. I only own traditional liquid liners with skinny brushes. Even though I’m no beauty beginner, I’d love to enhance my cat-eye game with a liner pen, as you have much more control over the type of line you want to create. Pics WILL follow!

Where?

Available at Woolworths and on Zando.co.za for R 245.

Environ Intensive Retinol 2

What?

It’s never too early to start an anti-ageing regimen, especially in sunny South Africa. Retinol, also known as Vitamin A, is the superstar of anti-ageing ingredients and is proven to manage eczema and acne to boot.

Why?

As a cell-communicating agent, Retinol latches onto skin cells and gives them a pep talk to behave as if they’re younger and healthier skin cells. It’s also an antioxidant, increasing the production of collagen, interrupting damage by free radicals and preventing wrinkle formation.  Why would you not want this all over your face?

The only issue: Retinol is known to cause skin irritation at the beginning of use, as your skin has to acclimatise to the ingredient.

Where?

Environ do a range of Retinol products with different concentration strengths. Newbies are told to start at 1 and work their way up to 3. However, my favourite beauty blogger, Lipgloss is my Life, recommended that I start at 2, as there’s nothing too intensive about Intensive Retinol 1. I’ll let you all know how it goes when I start using Environ Intensive Retinol 2, available at selected salons.

The Body Shop Long-Handled Cactus Bath Brush

What?

The benefits of dry brushing before showering are being shouted from the rooftops by beauties like Miranda Kerr, so I naturally have to jump on the band wagon.  Apparently an ancient Ayurvedic cleansing practice, dry brushing uses a natural body brush to brush the skin in short strokes towards the major lymph node areas: the groin, armpits, neck and chest.

Why?

Exfoliation by dry brushing means that your body can make the most of your moisturiser, as dead skin cells are removed from the epidermis.  This also allows for toxins to be excreted through the skin from the lymph nodes. Your skin looks fresher and brighter, as dry brushing stimulates circulation and oxygenates skin cells. Apparently, dry brushing greatly improves cellulite after just one week. I can’t wait to try it and tell you all about it!

Where?

The Body Shop has a long-handled body brush, perfect for getting to those hard-to-reach, cellulite-y areas. It costs R 175, perfectly reasonable for a beauty tool you’ll get a lot of use out of.

Have you tried any of these products? What’s on your beauty radar today?

xx Shan