Charlotte Tilbury Favourites

August 5, 2018August 5, 2018 cosmeticsjunkieeLeave a comment

Charlotte Tilbury – a brand whose products make you utter an ‘ooh’ when you lift every product. It is very easy to get stuck in Charlotte’s Web when you stop by the counter and her products always leave you wanting more. Not only is it a brand with beautiful, glimmering and not to mention addictive products but it is run by an absolutely amazing lady, Charlotte Tilbury (MBE!).

Charlotte Tilbury for those of you who don’t know is a living, breathing make up artist. Her love of make up began when she was just 13 when she tried mascara for the first time. I think we can all remember the very first time we played with makeup and the difference mascara made to our lives. Throughout the years Charlotte has worked with the industry’s best and most creative from Mary Greenwell to Tom Ford and has gathered up an amazing amount of experience allowing her to become the World’s Number One Make Up Artist. All her credits aside, at the end of the day she is an absolute BOSS and has created an absolutely amazing brand.

Warning! I have lots of favourite products…

Magic Cream, £70

Of course this one is going to appear on my list. I have always been a skincare geek and as soon as Charlotte marched on to the market I had to get my hands on this little pot of goodness that promised amazing benefits for the skin. I had heard lots about the cream before it was even out for sale as she used it on all of her amazing model and celebrity clients. The reason I liked the sound of it so much is because it’s designed to suit everyone. Do you ever go to discuss skincare at your favourite counter and there are SO many creams you don’t know what to pick? Good news, Charlotte Tilbury has done the leg work for you and created a jar of magic that suits everyone and appeals to all skin types.

100% of users agreed that their tired and dull skin was transformed so you just know that this cream will be amazing. Personally I have dehydrated skin that has a tendency to get very red when not cared for properly. When I used this cream my redness just washes away to create a perfect base for makeup to be applied to. I wouldn’t dare touch my skin with makeup unless this is applied. The Hyaluronic Acid seals in moisture so your skin stays hydrated and supple throughout the day while the Rosehip, Camellia Oils and Vitamin E is what transforms your dull complexion leaving your skin bright and youthful.

Overnight Bronze & Glow Mask, £38

I have talked about Charlotte Tilbury’s sheet masks before however, this time I am going to talk about the Bronze & Glow Mask. I never put fake tan on my face for fear of my skin drying out and considering I always have it on my body as I am so pale, my face in turn always looks ghostly white. This mask is perfect for anyone similar to me with their tanning habits as it gives you the perfect sunkissed glow and you can use it as many times a week as you like depending on how dark you like your facial tan. I tend to use it once every other night as I always like a faint colour on my skin. You could use it once a week or every night, personal preference!

Not only does it do exactly what it says on the tin in giving you a perfect bronzed glow but Oat Kernel Extract actually reduces redness and soothes skin while protecting and hydrating the skin and Blackcurrant Seed Oil gives bio-mimetic conditioning to your skin ensuring a flawless finish each time.

Watch Charlotte’s Bronzed and Glowing Makeup Tutorial using Bronze & Glow Mask here

Supermodel Body Highlighter, £45

Never before have I covered myself in a product that has made me stare at my own limbs so much. Why should highlight stop at your cheekbones, you can highlight your whole body with this body shimmer? Allow this cooling roller ball tip to glide effortlessly all over your body to coat yourself in liquid gold. Aside from making you look unbelievable there is so much going on under the surface of this product. Containing FermiBlend Supermodel Body protects the collagen fibers in the skin making your skin look firmer and more toned. It streamlines limbs and makes your skin look seriously smooth while caffeine detoxes the skin and diminishes any puffiness.

As if that’s not enough, it contains Aloe Vera to soothe and comfort while Menthol has a cooling sensation to help stimulate blood circulation. Yeah, I know right? Makes you want to buy 12 of them.

Watch Charlotte apply Supermodel Body here

Eyes To Mesmerise ‘Bette’, £22

Meet my ‘oh crap, I’m running late’ product which is pretty much what I use on the daily. I absolutely love this eyeshadow whether it’s on its own or as a base for one of Charlotte’s eyeshadow palettes on top it always looks effortlessly perfect. Apply with your finger or a brush whatever you prefer for a gloriously bronzed lid. This is my favourite shade from the range but there are plenty to choose from if bronzes and browns aren’t your thing.

The water infused formula has a cooling effect on the eyes so will never feel too thick or like you are wearing too much. It doesn’t crease and doesn’t wear off, which is a triumph in itself for a cream eyeshadow pot. Vitamin E hydrates making it absolute perfection for anyone with dryer lids also. Stop, I know what you’re thinking – ‘but my eyes are too wrinkly for shimmers or creams.’ Number one, stop talking nonsense your eyes are beautiful and two, soft-focus illuminating pigments smooth over lines and imperfections for a more youthful finish. You’re welcome.

Watch Charlotte’s Eyes To Mesmerise Bette Tutorial here

Legendary Brows, £18.50

There was a time when brows were just brows, hairy things above our eyes. Then all of a sudden brows were massive, quite literally. I am a fan of a more fluffier brow and considering I have barely any hair on my eyebrows this product was sent from heaven down to me to save my brows. The brush is so fine that it picks up hairs you don’t even realise you have! My makeup never feels complete without a few lashings of this on my brows. It can be worn alone or alongside your other brow products but you know when you use something like a brown pencil, it almost flattens your hairs? Using a brow gel will make them look nice and 3D and fuller and my brows never feel crunchy from too much product as you really need so little.

The gel contains volumising Magic Elasticizing Wax, nourishing Vitamin E, strengthening Castor Oil and natural pigments that lift and tint.

Watch Charlotte create amazing fluffy brows in seconds here

K.I.S.S.I.N.G Lipstick, £24

I always seem to end up in the shades ‘Penelope Pink’ (pictured) or ‘Hepburn Honey’ but the entire range is stunning. Really though, what sets Charlotte Tilbury lipsticks apart from the rest? Aside from a beautiful array of shades the lipsticks contain a stunning blend of waxes that allow the lipstick to glide on without dragging across the lip and drying the lip out. The light diffusing pigments gives your lips a multi dimensional finish leaving them looking full and luminous.

Charlotte has a wide range of lipstick formulas including Matte Revolution containing the ever so coveted Pillowtalk and the Hot Lips range so there really is something for everyone’s taste depending on the finish and colour you like.

Filmstar Bronze & Glow, £49

Okay, so if any of you follow me on Instagram you will know by now that I use this all day every day and it is my favourite product in my makeup bag let alone from Charlotte Tilbury. It is hard to find a bronzer that doesn’t leave you resembling a wotsit so that’s why the Filmstar palette always features in my daily makeup routine.

The bronzer is a blend of pearl and pigment to help contour your face and give you that gorgeous sunkissed glow and the highlighter has a golden base which will flatter everyone . If it’s a glow you’re after you can look no further than this palette as you are guaranteed healthy, radiant skin.

See for yourselves, watch Wayne Goss this time show you how to use it here

I have really had to reign it in talking about my favourites from Charlotte Tilbury as there are simply so many but there are my ride or die products from the brand. Charlotte is no stranger to featuring in my previous blogs, you can read about the famous Airbrush Flawless Finish powder in my top 5 powders. and the Wonderglow in my top 5 primers for dry skin.

You can follow me on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook xo

AND for those of you who are local to me (Northern Ireland) you can visit me in House of Fraser, Belfast at the Charlotte Tilbury counter!

LQ Liquid Health Supplements – Skin, Hair & Nails

August 2, 2018August 26, 2018 cosmeticsjunkieeLeave a comment

I was recently gifted a box of the LQ Liquid Health Skin, Hair & Nails and I don’t think I have even been so excited to try something out. Liquid supplements and pill supplements are something I have never really dived into so I couldn’t wait to try these out.

The main question I had going into using these was Do Liquid Supplements Actually Work? Well, let’s find out…

I received a box of the 10 Day Supply which you can purchase for £29.99, you can also purchase a 30 Day, £59.98 (save 30%) and 90 Day Supply, £175.44 (save 35%) in case you want to save a little money when you bulk buy. They come in little 50ml test tube style bottles that make for easy drinking, they remind me of test tube shots! They go down a lot easier than shots mind you, just maybe follow up with some water after. With a fabulous scent of strawberries, real strawberries not like strawberry laces these are sure to give you a little boost whenever you take them. I decided to use them every morning alongside my breakfast – they are not meal replacement so enjoy them alongside a healthy balanced diet to ensure you see the best results!

Containing Marine Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid, Biotec, Resveratol and many more amazing ingredients these Liquid Supplements I knew I was going to see a difference in my skin and honestly I really did. I didn’t notice anything for the first few days, but I am so impatient and a bit of a ‘I need to see results now’ kind of person. After day 3, I woke up and honestly my first thought was ‘ooh, my hair looks shiny.’ With blonde hair it can be hard for your hair to look shiny as it’s already fairly light but I definitely noticed a difference. When I got to work I was asked repeatedly if I had had my hair done and while the normal response was ‘I washed it ha ha‘ the response this time was ‘oh my god I tried these supplements.’ I noticed a difference in my hair first of all, but I would say it is different for everyone what you notice first.

So there’s me being all bizz with my shiny ass hair and on day 6 or so I happened to notice my nails. Now, I have been getting acrylic nails done for the last few years on and off so my nails are in a bit of state and honestly have a similar texture to paper. It makes typing a blog post basically impossible without pain. Fast forward a few days and I can definitely feel them stronger, not necessarily growing because it’s only been a few days but they 100% feel stronger. I’d say if I used them for more than 10 days my nails would definitely strengthen up more and would maybe be able to stop with the acrylics!

I’ve never really had problems with my skin, thank you Lord but I have by no means perfect skin. From using these liquid supplements I geniunely have seen a difference in my skin especially with hydration. I tend to notice how my skin reacts to new products by how my makeup sits on top. My makeup has been sitting clearer and not coming off during the day, decreasing the need for a powder touch up. I hate the thought of my makeup coming off (who doesn’t?) and that fact that I can drink something that stops that from happening? Sign me up.

I loved using these liquid supplements and actually think I will use them again. I would recommend the 30 Day Supply as I do think a month of using these would see amazing results especially after the results I seen in just 10 days. Perfect for before a special occasion, holiday or you simply want healthier skin, hair and nails!

You can view all the LQ Liquid Health Supplements here and the do a fantastic range of products! Be sure to check them out.

You can follow me on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and YouTube

For more information on collagen, LQ has produced an Ultimate Guide to Collagen, that provides everything that you could possibly want to know about the importance of this key protein.

Why not try LQ Skin, Hair & Nails, it contains 7,000mg of high-grade collagen, as well as 8 more key active ingredients that have been scientifically formulated to help maintain healthy skin, hair and nails.

BPerfect Cosmetics Stacey Marie MUA Palette

July 31, 2018 cosmeticsjunkieeLeave a comment

In an age where there are hundreds of thousands of palettes out there it is rare to come across something new and different. Not often does a make up palette come along these days containing something that actually makes me squeal. Enter Stacey Marie MUA’s collab with BPerfect Cosmetics. The Carnival Palette retails for £39.99 and contains a wealth of shades from bright blues and pinks to deep purples and yellows. Boasting 24 shades and 2 highlighters this palette is nothing short of amazing.

Stacey created this look for her demo at The Make Up Festival

Firstly a little background on BPerfect Cosmetics, a beauty brand that stormed on to the scene in 2013 that was created by Brendan McDowell. Based in Belfast, Brendan aspired to become a creative, stand out brand oh my, did he succeed. The brand is now available in over 1200 stockists in UK and Ireland, and has recently been made available on Beauty Bay – YAY – and for you local babes Paddy McGurgan’s Make Up Pro Store is now stocking the Carnival Palette. If you don’t know who Stacey Marie is then you need to get yourself onto her Instagram and just look at some of her amazing work. She can do things to an eyelid space that I never thought possible. I am so happy that this amazing brand and amazing Make Up Artist have teamed up together and the palette is such a success.

I was invited to attend Stacey Marie’s Launch in Medicare, Forestside Belfast and had an absolute ball watching Stacey do her thing, created some masterpiece eye looks. I was also kindly gifted the palette and haven’t been able to put it down since I got it. I was so shocked at the payoff of all the colours as normally I find with bright colours they fade away to nothing when blended but I was pleasantly surprised at this palette.

I used the shades Guilty, Lit, Wasted, Keen, Pink Me and Liqour to create this look inspired by another amazing Make Up Artist Keilidh Cashell, AKA Keilidh MUA. You can find her look in her Instagram here.

Even though I have spoken mostly about the amazing bright colours it definitely appeals to someone who would want a natural look out of it too. It’s also a fantastic palette for someone who would want to start going freelance or starting out as a make up artist as I can’t say it enough – it is just is an amazing palette.

Have you tried it yet? I would love to hear your thoughts!

You can follow me on my social media here

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Summer Ready Glowy Foundations

June 25, 2018April 3, 2019 cosmeticsjunkieeLeave a comment

Does anyone else scroll through their Instagram and look at all these gorgeous, glowing supermodel types and immediately want what they are wearing on their skin? Well the good news is, thanks to the rise in popularity these foundations are readily available on pretty much every counter and from every brand out there. The problem is, which ones are best? As a self confessed make up obsessive, you just know I have them tried and tested so read on for my top picks for Summer 2018.

Chanel Vitalumiere, £40

A beautifully hydrating makeup that boasts 8 hours wear to keep you looking fresh all day. This foundation is a staple for that gorgeous Summery make up and even though it’s classed as a medium coverage it is so easily manipulated to sit lighter or even fuller if needs be. With my redness in my skin it’s always an issue that that won’t be covered but with the colour correcting pigments infused inside that’s never an issue. With hyaluronic acid and an SPF15 this is sure to become a favourite in your Summer makeup bag. On the pricier side, I save this for thee most special events!

Nars Sheer Glow, £33

One of the first brands I saved up all my money for from my part time job and spent a clean fortune in Space NK was NARS. Among that make up splurge I found myself purchasing this foundation as I was drawn in by the allure of perfect light coverage. It’s amazingly natural and gives a sheer but buildable finish. Packed full of anti-oxidents it will protect your skin while making you look and feel amazing. Something to note however, there is no SPF in it so if you are someone who likes added protection make sure you have sun protection in your moisturiser.

Charlotte Tilbury Light Wonder, £32

My all time favourite foundation for beautiful, dewy skin. I keep this as my kind of ‘day off’ style foundation for days where I am not doing an overly adventurous make up as it gives the effect of flawless skin without feeling like you are wearing anything. This foundation is so versatile and still surprises me how much coverage I can get out of it as it is extremely buildable. With a light, blendable and creamy texture it goes on like a dream no matter what your application technique and remains effortlessly glowy throughout the day. Not only all of that but with an SPF15 you skin is sure to be protected all day.

*This is what I am wearing in the blog image*

Armani Luminous Silk, £42

A silky, lightweight formula that glides on to the skin with seamless coverage that blends beautifully to give healthy, natural and glowing skin. It sits comfortably on the skin but I do find however that I always need to use a powder to stop it moving around but that doesn’t bother me as I tend to use powder anyway. When my skin is feeling a little dull this is what I tend to use as it instantly brightens and lifts the complexion, perfect if you haven’t caught as many zzz’s as you would like.

L’Oreal Paris True Match, £9.99

I have spoken about this foundation before on my blog and on social media but it’s appearing again because I use it so so often. It gives just enough luminosity without looking too shiny as the day goes on. It’s a seriously blendable foundation that leaves no streaks or patchiness and is so comfortable to wear that it doesn’t feel like you are wearing much at all.

What foundations are your go to for Summer? Send me a message, I would love to hear!

Lusso Tan Review

June 11, 2018June 11, 2018 cosmeticsjunkiee1 Comment

For those of you that follow me on Instagram you’ll know that I attended the 1st Birthday of Lusso Tan in Belfast’s fabulous AM:PM Bar & Restaurant. It was a fabulous evening that they put on for all of us bloggers and their effort and dedication is surely reflected in their attention to their products. I was generously gifted the tan a few weeks ago alongside the mitt and I haven’t had it off me since. At the event I was gifted with the rest of the collection and I would love to share my thoughts on the products with you.

Lusso Tan isn’t just another tanning product but instead is a 3 Step Ritual to provide you with a long lasting, beautiful, glowing tan. There is more to just covering yourself in a tan lotion, you wouldn’t apply all your makeup for a night out without cleasning, moisturising and priming, would you? Well, maybe you would but you shouldn’t if you want it to last longer and your tan is no different.

With many products under Lusso Tan’s belt it an be easy to get overwhelmed but when you follow the 3 Step Ritual then you’ll be sure to come out with a professional looking tan.

STEP ONE – PREP

Using the Primer Spray will enrich any tan while protecting and plumping the skin. Before you tan spray a little over the face and body and then pat dry to remove excess. The spray not only rebalances the skin’s pH level creating an optimum environment for tanning but Organic Witch Hazel refreshes and locks in moisture so your skin doesn’t dry out.

I love this spray and think it’s an amazing addition to my tanning regime and have truly noticed a difference in the longevity of my tan especially on my chest area as I can never get tan to stay even.

STEP TWO – TAN

Fake it, don’t bake it. Get your Summer Tan from the tube and save your skin! With three shades to choose from you are sure to get something to suit your preference. That being said this lotion is extremely buildable and I am currently wearing the Medium, but easily built up layers to create a darker colour similar to that of the Dark Lotion.

I applied this tan using the Flawless Tanning Mitt which is the softest mitt I think I’ve ever touched and a creates streak free application each and every time. It dries so fast that you can get dressed almost straight away, which is perfect for me considering I tend to leave everything to the last minute and am in a permanent rush. As a tan that contains Vitamins A & E and Aloe Vera your skin is sure to remain soft and hydrated.

STEP THREE – BOOST

Why stop now, you’ve come this far? Lusso Tan offers a Finishing Touch range that takes your tan from great to amazing. The Skin Perfector covers imperfections than tan just can’t cover. I have used this product over my surgery scars on my ankle that tan just glides over and on bruises on my leg from God knows what and it is like a filter has been put over my skin. I like to smooth it onto the area and blend it out with my finger but you could use the Mitt for this too.

Also in the Finishing Touch range comes the Shimmer Powder which might randomly be my favourite item from the collection. Of course it is, I am highlighter mad. This pot of gold is absolutely stunning on the shoulders and along the collar bones to create that sexy, golden glow as if you just stepped off the beach. I like to use mine down the shins to create that ‘Yes, I shaved my legs’ look. Using a kabuki brush dust over anywhere you want and now you’ll have the most perfect, gorgeous, long wearing tan.

Lusso Tan have a variety of tans as well as the Tanning Lotion including a Tinted Gradual Bronze Tan and a wash off Instant Tan. I haven’t tried these yet but look forward to adding to my collection!

You can view all these products and more on Lusso Tan’s Website where you will also find a list of their Stockists.

Shirt – New Look — SHOP HERE
Skirt – Primark — SHOP HERE
Shoes – New Look — SHOP HERE

10 Best Beauty Buys Under £10

May 29, 2018 cosmeticsjunkiee4 Comments

There’s no such feeling like purchasing a product that didn’t break the bank and it turning out to be one of the best things you’ve ever bought. We automatically think that if it’s more expensive then it must be good, but what about all those cheap and cheerful products you pick up from your local Boots or Superdrug? They are amazing for the price! Don’t get me wrong, some items are just not up to scratch and I have found that out the hard way! However, some products are the best I have tried and from eyeshadow to lipstick to foundation these beauties are all under £10!

Make Up Revolution Foundation Stick, £5

If you have been lucky enough to get your hands on this foundation then you will know how outstanding it is for only £5! After Make Up Revolution broke the internet with their concealer which was named as a dupe for Tarte’s Shape Tape it was no wonder that they produced such a high class foundation for an amazing price.

With 18 shades you should quite easily be able to find your perfect colour. Creating a dewy finish your skin is sure to look healthy and glowing all day long. I love a full coverage foundation but also love a glowing finish and it can be hard to get a foundation that offers you both, but this one does! I have several shades as I use a darker one for contouring (when I can be bothered) and sometimes would use a lighter one for highlighting also. They are so creamy it makes putting on your foundation so easy and they blend like an absolute dream no matter how you apply it, be it your fingers, sponge or brush.

Rimmel Stay Matte Finishing Powder, £3.99

If you know me at all or have been following my blog for awhile now then you will know how much I love and use this powder. It sounds ridiculous but cheaper powders tend to feel more powdery. Duh, right? But this Rimmel powder still manages to leave the skin feeling silky without feeling clogged with too much product. It always stays in my handbag for little emergency touch ups and with up to 5 hours wear it has me good to go for the rest of my day.

Bourjois Bronzer Maxi Range Delight Bronzer, £8.99

I love a big old bronzer. Bronzers seem to be getting more and more compact these days, almost morphing into contour pans but this Bourjois bronzer is a fab size which not only will it last a long time but your brush won’t get ruined swiveling around a small pan. It’s definitely a warmer colour which suits for a more tanned look making it one of my go tos for Summer!

Sleek Solstice Palette, £9.99

I know, I know. This must be the third or even the fourth time that this palette has featured in my blog but it is that good. Aside from the fact that you can get 4 highlighters in this palette for less than £10, the product itself is amazing. With a variation of textures there is something in this palette for everyone, from the two baked powders to the silky shimmer powder you’ll be sure to be extra highlighted. You really need the tiniest amount or else you will end up like a moon beam.

The Body Shop Brow & Liner Kit, £10

Back in the day when I used to work in The Body Shop this was my ultimate favourite brow product and to this day still is! It has a powder and two powders which are great for creating extra dimension to the brow, perfect for when you want your brow to be a little softer. It comes with a firm double ended brush allowing for precise application and they also sell a brow gel at £10 which is great as well! A must have for brow upkeep and a bargain too.

Rimmel Lipstick, £5.49

I am a longtime fan of Rimmel’s lipsticks so it’s no surprise that these appear on my list. Extremely moisturising with a vast range of colours you are sure to find something that suits. The Kate Moss Shade 3 is one of my favourite lipsticks ever, and as you can see from my What’s in my make up bag? post it’s never too far from me.

Make Up Geek Eyeshadow, £4.95

Available from Beauty Bay these eyeshadows are sure to make a hell of a difference to your makeup bag. With an outstanding array of colours it’s easy to pick exactly what you want. From beautiful warm colours like Peach Smoothie and Chickadee to the nicest brown shade I have ever seen, Cocoa Bear. Typically with cheaper eyeshadows it can be a struggle to blend them out but Make Up Geek have their formula nailed and they blend like a dream. With just a few shades you can create a fabulous look!

Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Liner, £5.99

Eye love this liner. Sorry not sorry for the pun. This liner is a brilliant addition to my makeup bag and is up there with one of my new favourites. The tip always holds pigment and therefore never dries out and creates even lines on even the shakiest of eyelids. This pen is great if you are looking to be a little more creative with your lines and it creates such sharp lines, perfect for editorial.

Make Up Revolution Blush Palettes, £4

Yes, yes you did read that right – £4. Hot Spice is my palette of choice and I was shocked at how pigmented they were. The fact that there’s 8 shades in the palette for £4 was what made me think they would be terrible. Honestly, no they are amazing. I’ll be honest I throw my brush through all the shades and hope for the best because they are all fairly similar. There is a selection of mattes and shimmers perfect for all occasions.

Nyx Dewy Long Lasting Setting Spray, £7

I don’t know how much I believe in setting sprays but once this is sprayed over my makeup I feel instantly energised and cooled down. It can be a stressful ordeal applying makeup, especially when you are in a rush and I love the little spray at the end to finish it all off. Available in Dewy Finish and Matte Finish there’s something for everyone.

Updating your makeup bag doesn’t always have to break the bank and hopefully you have seen something on this list that you would love to try or have already. Let me know your thoughts on these best beauty buys for under £10!

Have Make Up Looks Become Too Dramatic?

April 13, 2018April 13, 2018 cosmeticsjunkiee2 Comments

If you follow me on Instagram then last night you may have seen me post a totally innocent few Instagram stories on my thoughts on certain styles of Make Up that are floating around our social media pages at the minute. I put out a poll asking whether you agreed or disagreed on how I feel that makeups are too over dramatic and over the top.

Since posting my thoughts my inbox blew up. I received all kinds of messages including ones saying ‘Finally, someone said it’ and messages that made me really sad from fellow Make Up Artists who said that these images are hurting not only their business but also their courage and drive to post creative content and it sets unrealistic ideals for their clients because they wanted to look like the girl on Instagram with 4 filters.

I am a Make Up Artist who still to this day sometimes shies away from using the term MUA even though I have been in the industry for 8 years. In my opinion the term Make Up Artist has lost all meaning since make up boomed onto the scene. Our job has become viewed as an easy way to start a career earning money with what’s thought as little to no work. In an age where people can go to a day course with their favourite artists/instagrammers and then slap MUA at the end of their name, actual Make Up Artists, pre make up boom are suffering. The reality however, is that to be a Make Up Artist requires a lot of work. I am talking early starts, late finishes, dealing with clients, customer service, buying and investing in a make up kit and spending a huge amount of money before you even make money. Not to mention basically having no social life.

Of course, everyone has to start somewhere but you cannot call yourself a Make Up Artist after you attend a one day course where you learnt one look that suited the model that happened to be there that day. There are so many looks that can be created and all I seem to see is the same look, repeated over and over again just with different colours. One of my favourite local Make Up Artists, @heatherallenmakeup_ in response said ‘I agree that they are artistic but when everyone starts doing the same artistic look is gets boring.’ We see so many of these looks that when we see the creative makeups they are now classed as the norm.

The point I am making, or trying to make is that social media has completely blown the role of a Make Up Artist and what normal glam makeup is out of the water. It doesn’t hold the same meaning that it once did and while Beauty Bloggers (hello) and YouTube, etc all have a part to play the one that does the most detrimental damage is Instagram. Instagram, is by far my favourite app and it’s disgusting how often I am on it. That being said when it comes to clients coming in with images of makeup that they want that they have seen on their feeds I am immediately disheartened because no amount of amazing skills or make up products can turn your client into a real life Face Tuned image.

I’m talking smooth, poreless skin with cut creases and halo eyes and triple stacked lashes. Don’t get me wrong, I do love doing the Make Up itself as it allows me to explore an area of creativity that years ago I didn’t even know was possible. The people doing these make ups are so crazily talented, I am not taking that away from them but those makeups are fine for Instagram, but that’s Instagram – your face is real life and an unrealistic standard is being set that regular makeup artists using regular make up struggle to live up to. Think of this from not even a Make Up Artist’s point of view, as a client you are being lied to by viewing these amazing looks, walking into your Make Up Artist expecting to leave looking like the photo and being bitterly disappointed at the end even though you are absolutely beautiful (with and without makeup). You didn’t look how you expected because you are not a walking filter. These makeups only look great from one head tilted angle and tend to look a little strange head on. Take a glitter cut crease for example, I went out with this look and someone took a photograph of me that wasn’t a posing selfie and I looked plain weird. I vowed that a regular smokey eye is my go to for nights out.

I really do pity anyone who is genuinely trying to make it as a Make Up Artist because looking at these images would make me want to cry, filled with the dread that I would never be able to do make up like that. My advice to anyone starting out is do not get put down by these drastic dramatic looks, do make up how you want to do it and I guarantee your clients will love it. As well as that, do your research and understand different people suit different looks. Have confidence in your work and believe in yourself, you do not need to copy Instagram to be successful, if anything I think it’s the opposite.

99% of my Instagram feed are dramatic looks because as I say, they are so fun to do. But guys and gals, you must understand the difference between Instagram and real life and set yourself a realistic make up look to ask for. Make up is designed to enhance your own natural beauty, social media makeups have made us lose sight of this. When did it become about making a woman look nothing like herself?

I would love to hear your thoughts on this, do you think that the makeup is too much or do you think I should get over it. There is so much more I could say about this topic but I’ll quit while I am ahead. Send me a message and let me know.

You can find me on Instagram, Twitter and YouTube

Bare Minerals Blogger Event

April 11, 2018April 3, 2019 cosmeticsjunkieeLeave a comment

Recently I was invited to attend my local Bare Minerals counter for a gloriously, intimate blogger event for just a handful of us. Even though I write a blog, I still don’t see myself as a blogger as there have been people doing FAR longer than me. That being said, it’s amazing being thought of as a blogger and I thoroughly enjoy attending these events as one. Being greeted upon arrival with a slate of chocolates and a glass of prosecco is something I can get used to. If only I was greeted that way in my house!

The amazing Kerri Devereux hosted our Masterclass portraying the perfect go to summer look with effortlessly glowing skin. Taking us from skincare to a full makeup application we learned the how to’s and what we need to recreate this look at home! I’m not going to spoil the tips and tricks for you but the ladies on the counter are there for you to quiz and learn from at Debenhams, Castlecourt.

What I am going to talk about however, is all the lovely things that I was treated to in my goodiebag! I have been trying them out for nearly a week now and I am obsessed. If I am being honest, Bare Minerals isn’t a counter I would run towards when I walk around a department store because it’s not overly talked about and to me there are no ‘cult’ products that I associate with them (Powder Foundation aside). I’m quite glad of this because there’s nothing worse than buying something or trying a product just because 200 YouTubers saying ‘it’s amazing’ so I was able to have a completely neutral response to these products.

As you can see from the main photograph, I was absolutely spoiled rotten. So many things to try, I honestly got home from the event and ripped straight into the bag. The first thing I tried that night was the Pure Plush Gentle Deep Cleansing Foam, £18. Normally, I am not one for foam cleansers as I have drier skin however, this did not dry my skin out at all. The first thing I noticed was the glorious Grapefruit scent washing over my face immediately awakening my skin. My skin felt so smooth afterwards and my other skincare products went on like a dream. I have been using it for a week now and still no sign of drying out which means even if you are of a drier skin type then you can still use this. That being said Bare Minerals have a whole range of cleansers so you can definitely get the perfect one for you.

The next morning after the event I sat and stared at everything and thoughtfully decided how I could put all the products on my face at once. After the luxurious cleansing, I decided to try out the serum that was sampled to us. The Skin Longevity Vital Power Serum, £48 went on like a dream leaving my skin looking crazy glowy. It’s a morning and night serum that claims to unleash skin’s vitality and luminosity while nourishing skin with essential minerals and hydration to reveal softer, more supple skin. I have to say that it felt amazing on the skin and almost cooling on the face which seemed to help calm down the redness that I usually get after cleansing. I’ve been using it in the mornings rather than just at night just so I get a little longer out of it, but this is firmly placed on my TO BUY list.

The next item on my list to use just HAD to be the Prime Time Original Face Primer, £24. I have said it before in previous posts but I am a little bit of a primer snob in that I expect the best from my primers, especially as it’s the product that is supposed to set your makeup up for the day. I am pleased to say that I really do like this primer but I can’t get away with using it all over my face. It just happens to dry me out all over and I know that there are other primers that would be better suited to me. The primer itself is mineral infused and glides onto the skin leaving it silky soft and actually looks amazing over my porous areas.

The fab girls gave me a sample of the foundation that was used in the Masterclass because all I wanted was that beautiful glow and I was so excited to try it. The Bare Pro Performance Wear Foundation, £29 is an award winning foundation that claims to leave you with 24 hours wear with full coverage. My first thoughts on the consistency was that there could be no way you could get full coverage out of it because it felt so thin. Oh my God, I was so wrong. The coverage was brilliant especially considering I used it with the Luxe Performance Brush, £24. The brush is nice and dense which will create a fuller coverage look anyway. I fell in love with the brush and the foundation almost instantly. I tried not to get ahead of myself because I wanted to see how the foundation wore before I made up my mind. It definitely stayed on all day however, moved a little on my chin but after I re powdered I was good to go again. If that’s my only complaint then this is definitely a foundation to try!

The Lash Domination Volumizing Mascara, £20 was the next thing I tried and this mascara has the funkiest looking wand. Normally, I am not one for a plastic wand as I find they tend to leave lashes looking clumpy but this brush separated through every single lash, not a clump in sight! For once my mascara didn’t smudge down during the day, normally I end up with a little black smudge at the corner of my eye and I was surprised to look in the mirror and see that I was smudge free.

To add the finishing touches to my Bare Minerals look I applied the Statement Lip Luxe Shine, £18 in the shade Alpha – the most beautiful pop of deep pink, perfect to amp up any make up look and take you from day to night. It’ll be my go to colour for Summer!

So there you have it, all the goodies that I received and I honestly can’t wait to go back and buy the rest of the products that were featured in the Masterclass (I see you Invisible Glow Highlighter). Pop into your local Bare Minerals counter to see all the amazing things they have in store! If you are local to the Belfast area then you can stop by Debenhams, Belfast and see the amazing team that treated us so well! Their customer service is always amazing.

You can book and treat yourself to an amazing service by calling 02890435574

If you have used any of these products then please leave a comment or send me a message and let me know!

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Nu-Skin Products Review

April 8, 2018April 3, 2019 cosmeticsjunkiee1 Comment

I was recently sent a variety of products to try out from a lady called Maura Gilmore. For those of you that don’t know her, she is a local Health, Wellness and Beauty Expert with access to award winning products proven to help appearance and health. It’s important to be happy with your skin and maybe one of these products will do just that for you!

Having tried the samples out I would love to share my thoughts on them with you.

Nu Skin Polishing Peel Skin Refresher

This exfoliating cream contains Pumpkin Enzymes that resurface and soften the skin and Bentonite Clay removes dead skin cells leaving skin healthy, soft and smooth. I loved the feeling of this as it went on as it’s the kind of product that you can feel working. Apply to clean dry skin and leave for around 30-60 seconds until the products feels tacky. As your rub your fingers in circular motions the products begins to dissolve dead skin cells and removing them. I have rather sensitive skin so the fact that there aren’t any small beads in it doesn’t leave my skin feeling rough.

Nu Skin Exfoliant Scrub

For those of you that prefer the little beads in your exfoliator then this would be the better option for you. Although it has mini beads in it, it contains an Aloe Vera base that conditions and safe guards your hydration levels so you don’t get that dried out feeling after you exfoliate. Exfoliating your skin is important as it helps to leave a brighter complexion and you’ll be less likely to get blemishes/pimples. When I used this I found that my pores were immediately unclogged and my skin felt a whole lot smoother. I actually kept this one for use in the shower and it was so easily taken off. Simply apply to a clean face and neck with a little warm water with gentle circular movements and rinse with warm water.

Epoch Glacial Marine Mud Mask

A revitalizing clay mask with sea botanicals that draws out the dirt and impurities from the skin. Designed for all skin types but I prefer to use this on my oilier areas as I personally find it can be a little drying. It has a thinner consistency to most mud masks I have tried which is good because you can still move your face when it’s on, most masks make my face feel like a brick! My face felt seriously smooth and had a beautiful shine off it once I took this mask off. I find it interesting to watch mud masks change colour (just me?). As the mask dries on the skin it will turn to a lightish green colour but the dark spots on the mask show you where the dirt is being drawn out of the pores. COOL.

Nu Skin Creamy Hydrating Masque

This mask is a nourishing treatment that works to protect the skin from dry and harsh environments by boosting skin’s moisture levels. This is probably my favourite thing I tried from the products that were sent as the smell alone had me feeling like I was in a spa. Designed for those with normal to drier skin types this mask has my name written all over it! The products claims to reduce redness and infuse skin with soothing nutrients from Cactus Extract into the skin for a healthy, beautiful, moisturised glow. The soothing can be felt immediately and feels almost cold as it goes onto the face which feels so relaxing. I applied this to dry skin and left on for around 20 minutes, just long enough to watch an episode of Santa Clarita Diet and tissued off, you can also remove with warm water. I can’t wait to do my skincare regime tonight and reuse this masque.

AP-24 Whitening Fluoride Toothpaste

I was so excited to try this product because who wouldn’t want whiter teeth? To be used after each meal or at least twice a day this toothpaste lightens teeth without harmful peroxides. Not only that but the toothpaste really leaves your mouth feeling clean for all day freshness. I have used this for about a week now and I find myself using my normal toothpaste and then using this afterwards in the mornings and same as in the evenings. Containing a proprietary blend of mild abrasives that polishes and smooths teeth without eroding the enamel. This toothpaste doesn’t contain peroxides or harsh abrasives as these can be harmful to the teeth especially when not used in a professional setting!

A stain reduction test was performed to determine the percent increase in tooth brightness. The whitening effects were measured after brushing with toothpaste.
AP-24® Whitening Fluoride Toothpaste resulted in a 63% increase in tooth brightness. I definitely notice a difference in the short time I have been using it and I will definitely keep using this.

If any of these products interest you and you want to find out a little more for yourself and maybe even try them you can contact Maura directly and she can sort you out!

CONTACT MAURA on her Be More Facebook or you can EMAIL mauratg@hotmail.co.uk or PHONE 07753354771

Top 5 Pencil Eyeliners

April 4, 2018April 3, 2019 cosmeticsjunkieeLeave a comment

You might read this title of this and go, ‘Really? But surely everyone has a black eyeliner…’ While yes, this is true let’s face it, there’s always something wrong with the black eyeliners that we own.

For years I suffered with black smudges because I just assumed that’s what happened when you wore a kohl liner. I dreaded peeking into my compact mirror to see my inner corners bleeding liner. Fast forward a few years and I uncovered a select few eyeliner pencils that are my go to that don’t cause any of these annoying problems. Why suffer when your eyeliner can stay perfect all day long?

Before I start, there is a difference between eye pencils and kohl pencils. I thought I would mention this as every time I talk about this with people their face is blank. Without going into the science and ingredients an eye pencil is harder and a kohl pencil is a softer material. Therefore a pencil is great for liner but a kohl is better for smudgier, smokier eyes. Personally I prefer kohl pencils as when I want to have winged liner I use a gel or a liquid.

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil, £15.50

I can always count on this eyeliner when I am in a rush and need a smoky eye, FAST. With it’s seriously soft tip it doesn’t drag on the eye allowing colour to glide on effortlessly. A highly moisturising pencil with Jojoba Oil, Vitamin E and Cottonseed Oil allows for creamy, easy application. Once the pencil is applied however, it stays in place all day without the need to check up on it.

An impressive range of colours will have you weak at the knees the next time you visit the counter, Perversion however is the nicest black shade I have ever seen.

Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Eye Pencil, £18.50

Similar to the 24/7 Glide On, Estee Lauder’s pencil is an extremely creamy and versatile eyeliner perfect for eyelids and waterline. In addition to 12 hours wear it is water resistant allowing it to stay in your water line all day making it the go to for days where you are going from office to party. The colour in this liner doesn’t smudge out unless you use the smudger allowing for precise application. This pencil sets very quickly so I wouldn’t recommend using as the base for a smokey eye unless you are working very quickly. That being said as it sets so quickly there is no fear of it transferring to your upper eyelid.

Again, a wide range of colours to choose from with Onyx as the black. Might I suggest Burgundy Suede (used in blog picture) as it’s such a beautiful colour and one of my go to eyeliners for clients makeups.

The Body Shop Smokey Eye Definer, £9

For something a little more defined instead of something smudgier look no further than this pencil from The Body Shop. The formula glides on and doesn’t catch or pull on your eyelids and gives a perfect line every time. You can of course smudge it out if you wish as it comes with a smudger on the other end but is great without. This liner is excellent for those that want and eyeliner look but without the dramatic effect as a subtle look is easier achieved with this liner.

MAKE UP FOR EVER Aqua XL, £16

This pencil is The Notebook-proof. You could go swimming, have a crying session, have drink thrown over you or simply wash you hair and this eye pencil will not move. Definitely on the thicker, creamier side of eye pencils so perhaps not for those looking something natural but this pencil is ideal for someone who is constantly smoking out your waterline. It blends effortlessly but once that sucker has set it isn’t coming off until it is pried off with your cleanser.

Coming in a variety of finishes from Matte, Diamond, Satin, Metallic and Iridescent there is definitely a finish and colour that will take your fancy. This is a Saturday Night out kinda eyeliner…

Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajaal Eye Liner Pencil, £2.99

There are very few drug store eye liner pencils that I would trust but this one from Rimmel has made the cut into the Top 5. I burn through quite a lot of eye liner and that can wreak havoc on my bank balance so for sheer price alone this pencil is amazing. I use this shade Jet Black constantly when I am using it as the base for a smokey eye. I run it all over the eye and blend the life out of it with my Mac 217 Brush creating a beautiful, easy smokey eye. On it’s own for actual liner purposes it has a tendency to bleed out a little on my eye, this isn’t a big deal so I don’t care but as a base for a smokey eye it’s the one.

So there you have it, a list of my favourite eye pencils that I use for wings, smudgy eye and smokey eyes. Have you used any of these or do you use one that I need to try – let me know!

You can find my other Top 5 Posts HERE

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Amy Savage

Beauty, Fashion & Lifestyle Blog

Category: beauty