The Right Shade.

It took me a ridiculous amount of time to get what I thought was the right shade match in sample size of the new YSL Fusion Ink foundation (review to follow). As counter make up artists you put a lot of confidence in them when buying make up to help you choose make up that suits you, and especially to match you up to foundation in the right shade. However I yet again experienced horrible service in getting the right shade. Therefore I thought I would right a little blog about my experience and a few tips about helping you around this issue.

Firstly I was given BR50, which as soon as I went out into the natural light was really dark. Then when I nipped in to ask about it, the assistant gave me BR20, she said this matched my skin ‘perfectly’…but BR50 to BR20 is a pretty big gap. Once again she said to take home a sample and try it out. Too light is beyond what BR20 was, it was ridiculously light. By this point I was really disappointed in the ability of the YSL counter make up artists to match my skin tone to the correct foundation.

However, whilst in Newcastle I decided to pick up the YSL Babydoll mascara (review coming soon), whilst there I though I would give it another go. I already guess the BR bit was correct, this means I have Beige skin with Red undertones, which is very true, however from swatching the shades myself I guessed I was maybe a 30/40. The counter make up artist this time was a man, a man hasn’t ever served me at a make up counter, but I have to say, he was beyond incredible. He went through the shades and he even explained both shades I was given were beyond wrong, he went over how to apply it and even took me out into the natural light to make sure it matched my skin perfectly. Even my other half was incredible impressed with the service. Therefore I left happily with a bottle of BR30…in my finally ‘perfect shade’.

It doesn’t matter if a foundation is cheap or not, but its something you wear everyday, and when a counter puts make up artists on the counter to help you its pretty upsetting leaving with the wrong shade…especially if you don’t realise it actually is. 

There are two key tips I have found really help me when I’m unsure about foundation shades. Firstly if you aren’t beyond happy with you shade or if your not 100% confident that its perfect for you, then go and get a second opinion in another store. Alternative you can come back another day and ask someone different to match you up. Another tip is to borrow their mirror and actually go into the natural light, there are so many lights around beauty counters that it’s not a surprise I was matched up wrong. Remember your wearing this foundation, not them. They are there to guild and help you. If you think their wrong, or a little off, then tell them or go somewhere else just to make you feel a little more confident.

Uniq One.

Uniq One -

All In One Coconut Hair Treatment 

I have been looking at buying one of the Uniq-One treatments, either this or the original for some time. Hair care is something that I really enjoy swapping, changing and trying new things, mainly because unlike my skin it rarely react that badly to a product, or if it does a quick deep conditioning mask will fix it right up, whereas, if I was to do that with my skin, it would take me beyond a month to get it back to normal again. Another reason I love hair care is because the result is pretty much straight away, once you use a product you know then and there if its any good, why its good and why its not, there is no waiting a few weeks to see if the result, if there is one, is what you wished it to be.

Now onto the review; 

Holographic Nail Polish.

Cirque Colors - 

Holographic Nail Polish

I always love things a little different, and recently I’ve really loved holographic nail polish. There definitely a must have for summer, especially because they look even more incredibly when the sun hits them and makes then just…shine. During a mission of finding the perfect holographic polishes I came across the brand Cirque Colors, which is an American nail brand who specialise in holographic polish, and they do some seriously incredible holographic polishes in every colour you could ever want. I have three amazing shades to show you today.

Fascination Street is a blue-toned medium purple base with hidden gold shimmer and scattered holographic effect. It manages to strike a good balance between maintaining the vibrancy of the purple shade, creating a dark shade that isn't dramatically lightened by the silver-based holographic particles and still being light enough to not completely drown out the hologram effect. The formula on this was really good, thin, smooth and even. It applied effortlessly and didn't challenge me with bald spots or streaking like holographic polishes sometimes can. It is a little sheer on the first but I wear it with two coats and I can't see any visible nail line.

Magnum Opus is a wonderful mid-toned grey with a very fine holographic rainbow. It sparks beautifully in the sun and seems to float on the surface of the nail. On top Magnum Opus fine holograph adds an incredible depth to the grey base colour. Indoors a soft lilac shine radiated from my nails and the slightest tinge of a holographic rainbow was still visible. The formula was thin but wonderful to control and flowed easily on the nails. Given the thin consistency the first coat went on a bit sheer but the second coat provided the perfect opacity.

Bejeweled is a royal blue which a spectacular holographic pigment, its almost a denim blue colour. The formula was great, it was easy to apply and didn't drag or have balding problems. I used 2 coats like with the others; it was less sheer then the other two, which is great. I have to say I’m truly enchanted by this shade, I think it’s definitely the strongest holograph out of all three.

Overall, all three of them have some similarities. The rainbow shimmer from the holographic particles is still visible indoors (as seen here) but it's much, much more pronounced in direct light for all shades. Each are scented with a calming herbal-floral (smells like lavender to me), which was totally unexpected but an incredible bonus. Dry time is very good, however due to the humid weather, polish does take a little longer to dry.

If your from the UK and are interested in trying some of the Cirque Colors, then there is a fantastic stockist online Rainbow Connection. There quick, easy and there really affordable. I ordered my 3 polishes on a Wednesday night, and they arrived Friday morning which I think is incredible!

Clear Difference Part 2.

Estee Lauder -

Clear Difference Advanced Blemish Serum & Targeted Blemish Treatment

When I bought their Clear Difference BB Crème they gave me a sample of their connected serum. I could tell just from using it a few weeks a slight difference in the amount of blemishes I was getting whilst using it, and they also seemed to heal a lot quicker. Therefore the next time I went passed an Estee Lauder counter I made sure to get a bottle. The box highlights it aims to ‘target, treat and reduces the look of blemishes effectively, yet gently with the proven power of salicylic acid, plus potent anti-irritants and skin purifying ingredients. Helps prevent the severity and frequency of future breakouts with continued use.’ I can’t explain how much I love this serum, it leaves the skin feeling fresh and glowing, and helps keep my skin clear. It is a bit on the pricey side, however I believe if something works, then it’s worth spending that little bit more on. I currently use it every night before my moisturiser and after I have cleansed, I was going to try it at night too during the times when I have quite a few spots, however I worry about it overly drying out my skin, so for now I think I’m just going to use it in the morning.

Whilst buying this, the consultant talked me into buying the Targeted Blemish Treatment. I had currently run out of the spot treatment I was using and therefore thought I would give it a go. Now. The product aims to ‘target and penetrate fast to rapidly reduce the size of blemishes while minimizing redness and irritation.’ This is something I can really say if it’s good or bad because I’m somewhat in the middle. I don’t really know if it does work spectacularly fast but it gets the job done, maybe just as fast as other blemish treatments on the market. However, the main downside to this treatment product, and the reason I no doubt wont buy it again is because it costs £25, however you only get 4ml of product which is tiny. 

If you compare this with a number of other similar products;

Origins Super Spot Remover, which is £15 for 10ml

Cliniques Anti-Blemish Solutions Clearing Gel, which is £14 for 15ml

Soap and Glory Dr Spot, which is £8 for 15ml

Mario Badescu Drying Lotion, which is £14.50 for 29ml

As you can see, to me charging £25 for only 4ml is shocking. Another problem I have is with the very cool looking, but annoying applicator. You have to click the cartage to release just the right amount of product, then you role it onto the spot. However, product dries underneath the roller, and that’s product both wasted and lost.

Overall, I love everything about the Clear Difference Serum, its amazing and works so well. However for me the Targeted Blemish Treatment is a bit of a let down and ridiculously expensive, I don’t think ill be repurchasing it when it runs out.

Does anyone know any great Blemish Treatments that work really well?

Wish List.

EOS Smooth Sphere Pomegranate / Blueberry Acai Lip Balm is something that has forever been a cult product for a lot of people. It states it’s a luscious lip balm, which delivers the perfect balance of flavour and moisture. Rich in Antioxidants and Vitamins, Smooth Sphere Pomegranate Lip Balm has a 100% natural and 95% organic formula, which helps to nourish and hydrate the lips. A blend of Shea Butter and Jojoba Oil works to soothe the lips and provide long lasting moisture. I never wanted one of these little lip balms mainly because they were so difficult to get hold of, however now that BeautyBay.com is now selling them, I’m incredibly eager to try one.
Kiss Everlasting French Wrap Kit promises a salon-perfect french manicure. It states it a easy and fast way of achieve the perfect french smile line without polish, right from home. A flawless french manicure that lasts up to 2 weeks without chipping! Now, I know I did a post about how much I loved the Elegant Touch Flawless Manicure Kit, which is very similar to this, however the upside of this Kiss version is that it allows you to purchase refills of the tips. Alongside this, they state they last longer as the Elegant Touch version promises a week, where as this one promises 2 weeks.

Magnifibres brush-on false lashes promises to instantly lengthen lashes by up to 5mm. This little product claims to create stunning false lash effect in seconds all you have to do is simply brush on the natural fibres between coats of your favourite mascara to add incredible length and volume. I haven't ever used false lashes before, mainly because the glue that you use with them worries me. Due to having sensitive eyes I get worried about using glues, mascaras and liquid eyeliners. However, this states its suitable for sensitive eyes, so I'm hoping it would be a great alternative to false lashes. 
OPI Nail Envy Soft & Thin nail strengthener promises to fortify and strengthens weak, thin and damaged nails. Featuring proven Nail Envy technology, Nail Envy Soft & Thin is enriched with extra Calcium and a blend of Sea Minerals and is formulated especially for soft and thin nails. Designed to infuse strength, health and vitality into weak, thin and soft nails, this high-performance nail treatment is easy to apply and delivers long lasting results. I’ve been using the Original Nail Envy for the past couple of months, and as much as I like it, my nails become soft and thin again between using it. Therefore it made me wonder if I wasn’t using the right one, or the one that might benefit my nails most. I think I will definitely give this a go, and maybe buy and use the OPI Maintenance Envy to help maintain my hopefully healthy nails between treatments.

Whats on your July Wish List?

Flawless French Manicure.

Elegant Touch –

Flawless French Manicure Kit

As you are all familiar last year I used to constantly have acrylic nails, which unfortunately left me with paper for nail beds. Nothing has ever damaged a part of me so much than a guy from Vietnam armed with an electric nail file. Since then my nails have been brittle and weak, not helped by my need for constant colour and endless treatments.

My natural nails now are in good condition and I don’t ever really miss my acrylics, however the one thing I often do miss is the flawless French manicure…especially during summer. As anyone who has tried to do their own knows it’s nowhere as easy and the Internet makes it look, the whole guides, white nail polish and fiddling around just isn’t my cup of tea. However, during my unusual wonder round Superdrug (I’m a boots girl at heart), I can across this cool little kit. The kit takes the French manicure to a new level by having individual false nail tips that are applied to the nail with glue, and then broken away from the housing to leave a flawless looking French tip. They're dead easy to apply and get in the perfect position, leaving you with a nail that looks like you've been down to the salon. I applied these in about ten minutes or so, so it's no longer than our usual indulgent manicure and the results last for days.

What I really like though is that they don't feel like false nails at all, just like you've had a bit of pampering. You file off the edges to make the tips blend into your nail and you can't tell the difference. They also eliminate the problem of chipping, as the white bit is literally a thin bit of plastic that can't chip. I wore these for a whole week and a bit during my current teaching placement, and anyone who works with children knows your nails take some serious hammer, they didn’t chip even slightly and didn’t loose a single one, the only reason I removed them was because I wanted a change of colour.

When you want to remove them you just use nail varnish remover and hold on for a bit longer until you can push or peel off the tip. Another thing I really love about this kit is that when the topcoat doesn’t look as shiny (as topcoats tend to do after a while), you can simply remove the topcoat with acetone free nail polish remover and it leaves a blank canvas, it doesn’t lift or move the tips at all. I also found by adding a little extra glue it helps the tips last even longer.

It gives your nail underneath a little time to rest and grow out too, meaning it could be a simple long-term solution for bad nails. The set comes with a base and topcoat to make sure the rest of the nail looks flawless and the tip stays in place, so you've got everything you need for a flawless set of talons. In addition to this I found the base and topcoat (you have to use both on top of your polish) to be really good for over glitter polish, it gives the ultimate flawless plumped gel look, and illuminates the feel of the glitter, leaving your nails flawless, shiny and smooth.

Have you gave this kit a go?

*The photo of the nails aren't actually my nails, I had to borrow the photo from google because I forgot to take one, and I have just had gel polish applied, however I thought these were incredible for summer so you all should know about them*

Clear Difference.

Estee Lauder –

Clear Difference Complexion Perfecting BB Crème SPF 35

OK...I caved in and bought this little beauty. Mainly because it’s getting really sunny and I really don’t want to be walking round with a bright red face all summer, secondly…because I’m weak willed and have a make up/skincare addiction.

Estee Lauder explains; ‘this multi-function, oil-free BB Crème is the perfect complement to your Clear Difference blemish treatments. Instantly neutralises redness. Helps conceal blemish marks, pores and flaws with a specially formulated tint. With one touch, the lightweight formula hydrates, protects, perfects and soothes Controls oil and leaves skin looking soft, clear and naturally beautiful.’

The consistency of Estee Lauder Clear Difference BB Crème is between that of a tinted moisturiser and a thicker BB cream. It is easy to apply with fingers, which is my favourite way off applying it, mainly because I find its too thick for a brush. The coverage is sheer, however it evens out the complexion well. If you have any imperfections, it is time to bust your concealer out, because that would literally be your base done. I usually add a bit of Giorgio Armani maestro foundation over the top of the area that needs it; it gives just the right amount of coverage without anything too heavy. I also find just by adding that extra bit of coverage it helps conceal my pores that little bit better.

I really love that its got blemish fighting properties, I have been using it for the past month or so and its really helping my blemishes and/or keeping them away. However, I'm also using a new Estee Lauder serum which is incredible also so it could be a little help from that too, that's helping keeping my complexion unusually clearer. It doesn’t irritate my skin, and does a great job at cancelling out the redness in my skin. Like I’ve said before the SPF 35 is incredible, and especially in summer will be super at helping keep my face protected. SPF usually really upsets my skin, i think its due to how heavy SPF products tend to be, but I have had no issues with this, my skins really loving it.

Overall, I really like and foresee myself wearing Estee Lauder Clear Difference Complexion Perfecting BB Crème a lot...it may have even knocked my Dior Nude BB Creme off the top spot. It is mattifying (?) enough for summer, but not so mattifying (seriously have I made up this word?) that it starts looking powdery or caked on. The shade Medium is a perfect match for my skin tone, and I appreciate how they left the fragrance out!

SERIOUSLY..if you suffer with blemishes, you really need to try this little beauty.

Wish List.

I know I haven’t done one of these in a long time, but over the past few weeks during placement I haven’t been browsing round the shops as much as normal. However, there are a few things that have really caught my eye, and that I may even indulge in when I go to Manchester soon.

So lets begin...

Nars Kauai Duo Eye Shadow

This duo is part of NARS' High Seize Collection, the Kauai Duo Eye shadow is a highly pigmented pair of eye shadows in the shades Gold Lame and the purple-toned Iridescent Smokey Orchid. There are super pretty and incredibly pigmented. I really love that they can be used separately or together to create the must beautiful new shade.

Nars Malacca Eye Shadow

This eye shadow is described as an iridescent peacock colour. From the swatches I have seen of it, it’s a medium dark plummy brown with cool toned green shimmer-sheen and a frosted finish. I was worried it would be that bluish-teal-brown duo chrome that every brand has been rolling out recently but from what I can gather it’s a very beautiful mauve-plum-brown base that gets more mauve-y as you blend it out and apply more. I have seen so many swatches of this and it looks really pretty and something I don’t think (…) I have in my collections (I don’t think…) (Its definitely times like these I wish Nars Eyes shadows weren't so expensive...sadface)

Dior Addict Lip Maximize in Shade 3

I already own this in the original shade, which is a clear pink. However, they recently released it in a very pretty blossom pink shade, which give just the right touch of pink to the lips. Personally from trying them both I really think they have done something to this new shade because the maximizing properties in it seemed a little more intense and powerful and you could really feel it working, which I love.

The Body Shops All in One Instablur

Recently, I’ve really loved the new Kiehls blurring primer at the minute, however this has also had some amazing reviews. Its only just been released however it claims to control shine, reduce the appearance of pores, hide blemishes and extend make up. It’s a lot of high power claims, however I may have to nip in next time I need a new toner and ask for a nice little tester to see how ‘intrablurring’ it actually is.

Clinique Take The Day Off Cleansing Balm

Loved this little cleanser ever since I tried it, however the only problem is finding it to buy it. I have had to stick to the Body Shop Chamomile Cleansing Balm, which is good, but I prefer this little beauty. Its super lightweight and cleanses my face super well without leaving an oily residue behind. I really wish Clinique would get more of these in stock to shops because its really hard to find both in store and online, and its such a fantastic product.

Estee Lauder Clear Difference Complexion perfecting BB Crème SPF 35

Talk about a mouthful. OK I’m not going to lie, I swear by my amazing Dior Nude BB Crème, however its only an SPF10 and due to being pretty fair skinned, that means I end up spending the whole of summer with a super red burnt face…not a good look. Recently Estee Lauder fetched this little BB crème out which is aimed at people who have blemish prone skin, it claims to instantly neutralize redness, help to conceal blemish marks, pores and flaws and most importantly help treat blemishes. If that wasn’t enough it also states to hydrate, protect, perfect and sooth skin. Now, I don’t always believe what I read on the label because to be fair, they’re trying to sell a product at the end of the day. But seriously…this stuff is good! I went and got a cheeky little sample of this because the high SPF sometimes irritates my sensitive skin. It’s rich and creamy but lightweight at the same time, blending beautifully into the skin giving you just enough daytime summer coverage. The SPF being 35 is a great advantage because it means my face wont burn as much. Overall, I think when I run out of my Dior Nude BB crème I think I’m going to take a chance and purchase this, I haven’t experienced any improvements in my blemishes, but to be honest my skin is actually behaving and obviously I’m not going to get that many uses from a tiny sample pot. Trust me, when I do buy this bad boy and test it out properly, you can definitely expect a in-depth review of every inch of it.

Have any of you tried any of these products, if so whats your view on them?

Whats on your June Wish List?