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

Top 5 Powders

March 27, 2018April 3, 2019 cosmeticsjunkiee3 Comments

As somebody who works on a make up counter, powders seem to be the thing people question the most. Will it give me flashback? Do powders dry the skin out? Do they clog my pores? Do I use translucent or coloured powder? Do I even need it? Are loose and pressed powders the same? Do I a different powder for the face and under the eyes? The questions are endless and to be honest, how and why you use a powder should be a whole other blog post. For now, I have picked my favourite powders that I like for different reasons and use in different ways.

To answer one of the questions before I begin, loose powders come in a jar and have smaller particles therefore giving them a lighter feel and finish. Some can be messy and a pain in the butt to carry around so advice from me to you, keep loose in the stay at home make up bag. Pressed powders are are compacted and tend to contain ingredients like silicones and waxes to keep them in pressed solid form. If your skin can get irritated easily this is maybe something to be aware of! The particles in a pressed powder and slightly bigger and can therefore look cakey when too much product is applied.

To me, loose and pressed powders are completely different so I have included a mix of these products in this list to appeal to everyone!

Maybelline Fit Me Matte & Poreless Powder, £5.99

This powder is a beauty because it comes in colour and translucent. Personally I prefer the translucent shade as but have used the coloured on clients. If you know anything about me at all, you’ll know my skin is on the dry/combination side which makes me annoying because I’m a little bit of everything. I have dry skin overall but with an oilier chin and quite open pores. That’s why I reach for this powder on a daily basis as even though it gives a matte finish and fills my pores it doesn’t dry out my skin.

Using the translucent powder stops any clogging too like I mentioned earlier and really only sets the coverage that you have already put down which is perfect if you aren’t looking full coverage.

Estee Lauder Double Wear Powder, £35

This is a powder perfect for someone who wants to have a flawless base (everyone right?) so long as you like to add a little coverage. Now, this powder is classed as a foundation before you go straight to online shopping but I love it on top of foundation too. It’s my go to for days where I am going straight out after work and it’s always in my handbag for emergencies. In fact, when I buy it I buy two at once because I keep one in my beauty room and one in my bag! That’s when you know that a product is one of your must haves!

Not only is the powder itself amazing offering medium coverage and a natural finish and SPF10, but there are 28 shades of this powder which is amazing for a powder shade range making it so easy for you to find your perfect shade.

RCMA No Colour Loose Powder, £13

My ultimate all time favourite powder for underneath my eyes and at only £13, it’s a bargain considering just how long it lasts. With it’s extremely lightweight texture it doesn’t dry out the skin and keeps under eyes crease free. There are several types of RCMA powders you you can get however, the no colour powder suits me best as I know that no matter whether I have tan on or not this powder will match. I originally bought this powder because one of my favourite YouTuber’s Make Up By Jaack used it and OBVIOUSLY I had to buy it. At a time where baking was the go to trend this powder was perfection. Trends may come and go but this great product is here to stay!

Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder, £3.99

I don’t have much to say about this powder other than that it’s the best, most affordable powder I have ever used. I keep this powder for daytime and for when I am just running about and don’t need my make up cemented to my face. It has up to 5 hours wear and sits beautifully on the face. Although it is called Stay Matte the powder doesn’t take away all the shine in the face and it’s for this reason that I actually like it so much. With that in mind if you are very oily and reaching for it just know that in my opinion it’s not completely matte.

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish, £33

So, I have saved the best for last! My favourite pressed powder of all time ever is this one from Charlotte Tilbury. When my skin isn’t looking as great as I would like it to be this is what I use. When my skin looks great, this powder makes it look even better.

With dry skin, I have to be careful about what powders I use so as not to make my skin dryer! This powder sits so lightly on the skin you wouldn’t think I had it on, but it sets all my foundations perfectly giving a soft, airbrushed finish. The powder doesn’t give you that dry powdery look either, creating a beautiful luminous finish.

So there you have it, my top 5 powders. Let me know if you have used any of these or if there’s a powder out there that I just HAVE to try. You can check out my other TOP 5 posts here –

top 5 bronzers

top 5 concealers

top 5 foundations

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Top 5 Bronzers

March 2, 2018April 3, 2019 cosmeticsjunkiee4 Comments

As one of those poor, unfortunate pale folk I rely on a bronzer to give me that gorgeous bronzed glow. Due to the fact that I am naturally silver skinned I think this is why bronzers are my favourite beauty product and I have an entire drawer dedicated to them. This will probably be the hardest thing to narrow down to just 5 as I love so many but now as I sit staring at my drawer of bronzers, there are very few that I view as my die hard, desert island bronzers. From drug store to high end, read on for my favourite bronzers!

Nars Laguna Bronzing Powder, £29

With the amount of bloggers and celebrities that love this bronzer you can bet your ass this is the first bronzer I ever bought. It was considerably cheaper when I bought it for the first time, but I’d say I am easily on my 8th or 9th Laguna bronzer. When I was younger I was obsessed with NARS packaging, I had been so used to drug store packaging and I hadn’t seen anything as sleek and sexy as this. I then proceeded to buy lots of others shades but I always came back to Laguna.

The bronzer itself gives the perfect summery glow which makes it a necessity for the make up bag for the upcoming months. Embedded with a golden shimmer it’s definitely a bronzer for someone who wants a stronger finish to give an all over warmth. The powder is finely milled to give a sheer affect while filling in lines and pores giving an effortlessly smooth finish. The shimmer is very subtle so nothing like a highlighter, just enough to give your skin a healthy glow.

The Body Shop Honey Bronze Bronzing Powder, £14

This is the bronzer that I use probably the most often to the day purely because of the price point. The make up in The Body Shop are probably one of the only items to not have gone up and up in price in recent years. It gives a very natural finish which is desired for a day time look. Not only is it beautiful on the face but comes in great shades for the eyes too, making it a perfect addition to your make up collection especially if you bring your bag out and about with you. I love products that are multi purpose!

The bronzer itself is more on the subtle side so if you are looking for something that will give you a strong colour might I suggest something with a little more pigment, or just build up the colour. The bronzer is shimmer free, allowing it to be used for contouring also if that takes your fancy. Not only is the bronzer amazeballs, but it contains Community Trade Honey and comes in 5 shades with a shade light enough for my silvery complexion making it my go to day time bronzer.

Soleil Tan De Chanel, £40

As I have mentioned I am a pale, silvery skinned gal but when I get my tan on I prefer to wear a little less make up. When I am in this beautiful, tanned state my go to make up product, never mind bronzer is the Chanel cream gel bronzer. It is such a gorgeous formula and can be used on it’s own just to enhance the glow or under on on top of makeup.

When I first saved up to buy this foundation I was terrified to use it because I was intimidated by a cream product. All I had known was powder bronzers and this was a total revelation. I found it was easier to use when you dab on tiny amounts and blend as you go rather than applying all over and trying to blend it all out.

Rimmel Natural Bronzer, £5.99

Obviously, a Rimmel product will feature – y’all know I love the smell of these products! Smell aside, this bronzer never ceases to amaze me at how brilliantly pigmented it is. It’s called Natural but to be honest I use this as my night out bronzer as the shades are more on the warmer side and give off a lot of pigment. It’s a waterproof bronzer with velvety soft texture that glides beautifully onto the skin.

There is quick a bit of kick back when I use this product but I don’t really care about that so much as it all stays in the container and can be used again, so not like I am wasting anything – I just always make sure to tap off the excess so as not to cover my whole face in bronzer! That is not a cute look.

Make Up For Ever, Pro Bronze Fusion, £28.50

I have spoken about this bronzer already in my Make Up For Ever Favourite Products blog so if you want more details on it you can check it out there. This is another one of those bronzers similar to The Body Shop’s Honey Bronze that requires building up. You don’t have to build them up, obviously you can leave them as they are for a fab subtle glow!

Another waterproof wonder from Make Up For Ever makes this another perfect one for your Summer collection. Not only that, but the Pro Bronze Range caters to those who want matte and/or luminous finish. The first colour I got was the shade 20M which was a matte finish but I have since updated my collection to include the 35I shade for a far warmer, illuminating finish.

That brings us to the end of my Top 5 Bronzers even though this list could have gone on to include about 15 more. These however, are truly my everyday go to bronzers that I use all the time. Let me know if you have used any of these bronzers yourself or if there is a bronzer out there that is your absolute fave – maybe I haven’t tried it yet!

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You can view my other Top 5 Blog Posts HERE

Amy xo

Top 5 Foundations

February 28, 2018April 3, 2019 cosmeticsjunkiee10 Comments

The perfect foundation? Does this exist? I don’t know about you but I have spent years trying to find thee foundation, the one that does it all. I’m not going to lie to you, I have come very close. I have a top few foundations that I wouldn’t go without but none of them I can honestly say are the ONE.

I don’t think it’s possible to have just ONE foundation that’s the one for everyone as everyone’s skin is too different and we have too many different wishes. For example, not every is oily and dreams of perfect matte skin. Not everyone is dry and wants luminious skin. It’s not even that simple, I have dry skin and sometimes my mood will send me towards a matte finish. Therefore, it’s far too hard to have just one foundation that does it all. So I have narrowed down my top 5 foundations as it’s not possible to have one!

Yves Saint Laurent All Hours Foundation, £35

An oil free, matte finish foundation that surprisingly does not dry out the skin when worn. This foundation could cover mistakes of the past, that’s how good the coverage is. It blends so easily into the skin and you really do need very little. In fact I find with this foundation it’s best to build it, rather than going in with loads of product. Using the foundation this way gives an insanely flawless base! My skin isn’t bad, but is by no means perfect but when I wear this foundation you really wouldn’t know! I have been wearing this foundation a lot recently and have gotten a lot of messages on Instagram asking about it because it photographs so well too.

Getting down to the science, the foundation contains a skincare complex and UV filter which is what leaves the skin fresh and smooth. It contains an SPF 20 and does give a little flashback but what’s a little flashback when your skin looks so fab in real life?

Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Foundation Stick, £30

You know when you see people walking down the street or even in your magazines and on Instagram and they look fabulously glowy and healthy? Well, that’s what this foundation will do for you. I am not even kidding, my skin has literally never looked better than when I wear this foundation. The texture of the foundation is so creamy that it glides effortlessly onto the skin to conceal any imperfections making it excellent for touch ups also. As it leaves a satin finish, it’s perfect for my dry skin!

It’s fairly long lasting, for me personally it’s not an all day foundation because it’s creamier it has a tendency to move but so long as you don’t mind setting it with powder it’ll be perfect. If you love the sound of this foundation but you have oilier skin or want to make sure it stays on all day might I suggest Make Up For Ever Step One Mattifying Primer £25.50 to put underneath. The foundation itself was created for the latest high definition technologies of the film and TV industry to look invisible on 4K camera and in person so it’s a perfect foundation to add to your collection.

Rimmel London Lasting Finish Breathable Foundation, £8.99

I first tried this foundation a few months ago when Rimmel very kindly sent me a little parcel and I filmed a first impressions video which can be found here.

So if you want an in depth review on this foundation then you can watch that but this is my favourite drug store ‘affordable’ foundation. A light to medium coverage foundation which similar to YSL’s All hours is extremely buildable. The foundation claims to moisturise for up to 25 hours and to be honest, this could be true but I haven’t had to wear a foundation for that long. If I did I would probably have to claw it off by the 25 hour mark. Anyway, this is my go to foundation for something to throw on daytime or when I want a little bit less coverage!

Estée Lauder Re Nutriv Ultra Radiance Makeup SPF15, £76

Every now and then, just like any gal I want a little luxury in my life. That for me, comes in the form of this Estée Lauder foundation. A gloriously smooth foundation, this gives flawless radiance to the wearer and a fabulous medium to full coverage. It glides on effortlessly and feels amazing on the skin. It coats over all my texture and leaves my skin glowing. In fact, I normally use this foundation mixing it into the others that I have mentioned to add a little fabulousness to my face. On it’s own however, it is a stunning foundation.

Seriously luxurious it contains precious micro-fine gems for a flawless finish and jewel-like radiance. It contains benefits from the Re Nutriv Skincare range by Estee Lauder itself, it reduces appearance of fine lines and imperfections, enveloping skin in comfort and care.

I’m aware it’s on the pricier side so if you want something similar but not just as expensive then might I suggest Estée Lauder Perfectionist Foundation £41 but trust me, you’ll not regret the Re Nutriv!

L’Oreal Paris True Match Super Blendable Foundation, £9.99

I found it pretty hard to pick the last one to complete my Top 5 so I went upstairs and due to the fact that I have two bottles of this foundation on the go at once and a further 3 in the drawer as a back up that this one has made the list. Without realising it, this foundation is probably my most used. I love how lightweight it is and it’s another great one to mix into other foundations to lighter/darken. It’s honestly just a nice foundation for every day. I use it more as the throw it on, heading into town, going to the shops kind of foundation. I don’t really use it for nights out as it doesn’t pass the long lasting test for me but is great to throw on to save wasting those that are a little on the pricier side – see Estée Lauder!

The foundation has an impressive 28 shades so there will be something to suit pretty much everyone!

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Top 5 Highlighters

February 20, 2018April 3, 2019 cosmeticsjunkiee10 Comments

Whether you like your glow subtle and daytime appropriate or whether you like your glow to be seen from the International Space Station then you have come to the right place. Highlighters are probably the item of makeup that I have tried and tested the most considering it’s the most requested item when working on clients. Dewy, wet, beaming, luminous, radiant, glowing and gleaming are the words people want to hear when someone is talking about their skin and that’s arguably all down to highlighter. You might love it or hate it but there is no doubt that adding a little pop of highlight can make all the difference.

Of course, highlighting in the make up industry has been around for decades upon decades and this glow hasn’t only come around in recent years. However, as everyone is now a mooah all the tricks and tips of the trade have leaked out for anyone and everyone to use.

With so many highlighters available from so many different brands it can be hard to truly find the best one for you. With that in mind I have compiled a list of my personal Top 5 Highlighters so if you are in highlighter limbo and have no idea which highlighter to go for, or you simply want to add another to your collection then scroll down for more!

Mac Cosmetics Extra Dimension Skinfinish £25.50
More specifically the shade Oh, Darling. If you are a regular viewer on my Instagram or even on my YouTube channel you might know that this highlighter is probably my most used item, let alone highlighter. I get carried away and honestly out it everywhere. The highlighter itself is one of the most stunning sights. I myself prefer anything warm toned so that’s why I tend to reach for this baby a lot considering the gorgeous, golden glow it leaves on your skin. If you are after that perfectly wet, sexy sweaty skin then this is the highlighter for you. I do find that the brush you use is important for this one as it is such a strong colour I find it best using a fan brush like the Make Up For Ever Fan Brush 120 (£21.50) as it doesn’t apply too much product causing the tin man look.

2. Sleek Solstice Palette, £9.99

Before I even begin – this is the BEST highlighter for the price of it. So if you are someone on a budget and looking a little more bang for your buck I am telling you look no further. Congratulations, you have found the perfect highlighter. My jaw hit the floor the very first time I used this palette, I couldn’t believe a highlighter that cost me less than £10 was this good. Price aside, the highlighter itself is unbelievable. Now, inside this palette there are 3 powder shades (two baked and one shimmer) and one cream shade. I’ll be honest when I say that I have never touched the cream one, only by accident when I have been getting ready in a rush but I use the powder shades nearly every day. It’s an extremely strong palette so it’s not for the faint hearted! If you only like a light bit of highlighter please do just take a small amount as I have known myself on occasion to go totally overboard. There are not many drugstore products other than foundations that I repurchase because there are so many out there to try, but I am on my fourth solstice palette. I also love the packaging – that’s what sold it to me in the first place!

3. Estée Lauder Victoria Beckham Modern Mercury, £55

I may be being biased considering my love for former Spice Girl Victoria Beckham and her outstanding line with Estée Lauder but this highlighter certainly had to appear i my Top 5. The second I got it I ripped through the packaging and I nearly wept and how beautiful it was, I was almost scared to ruin the beauty of it. I got over myself pretty quickly, grabbed my Illamasqua Highlighter Buffing Brush (£26) and delicately placed this beautiful creamy powder on my cheekbones. It was love at first sight! I keep this highlighter for when I don’t want my cheeks to be so wet looking, it’s is perfect for those of you who like to keep it a little more on the ‘natural’ side while still looking gorgeously glowy. As I wrote this I got so excited about it that I ran upstairs just to check on it, make sure it was safe, swatched it and came back down… obsessed much?

4. Iconic London Illuminator Shine, £30

I used to hate cream or liquid illuminators. Ladies and Gents, that was before Iconic launched their illuminators. I’ll be honest, I haven’t quite nailed the application like some of the beauty gurus on Instagram and YouTube – how to they look so attractive dripping it down their face?! – but, I am quite happy throwing it all over my face any way I want. I love this product for two reasons… it is fantastic as a primer underneath your foundation as it creates a serious glorious shine through your foundation. Not only that, but it’s beautiful on top of your foundation – even over powder. It’s the only liquid highlighter I have come across that does not lift or disturb ANY foundation that lies underneath. There’s nothing worse than spending ages bouncing your foundation in to your skin to then use something that lifts your hard earned work. It comes in a few shades, I use ‘Original‘ and have ‘Glow‘ if I am using it to darken foundation or use as a bronzer. When adding on top of your foundation, might I suggest using a beauty blender if you have one as it sits beautifully on the skin. I use the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Make Up Sponge (£5.99).

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Real_Techniques_Miracle_Complexion_Sponge_1501075115_main

5. Make Up For Ever Artist Face Color H102/H106, £18

The thing I like about these highlighters more than anything are their compactibility and ease of use. The Artist Face Color collection are magnetic and so can be swapped and changed into different pans and carriers, as a Make Up Artist this is extremely handy for heading to and from events, clients, etc. Not only are they then refillable but the product itself is beautiful! They have a vast range of highlighters, matte and shimmery to blushers and bronzers and contour shades that can be placed and made into a palette of their own. Focusing on just the highlighters, they are extremely buttery and so blendable that it doesn’t require a lot of work. My favourite colour is H106, again a warm golden colour, and it’s the only highlighter I have that looks like skin. All the others have that obvious highlighter look but this one in daylight looks like it could really be my skin that’s glowing. Even the Victoria Beckham highlighter has that hint of glitter that lets slide that it’s a highlighter whereas the Make Up For Ever is so smooth that it looks like skin.

The list could go on however, these are the highlighters that I use on a near daily basis and are worth bringing into your own make up bag. If you have any other highlighters that you think I might not have tried please send me a message as of course, I would love to try them! If you have used any of the highlighters I have mentioned send me a message as well and let me know what you think!

Til next time,

Amy xo

Make Up Trends SS18

February 3, 2018April 3, 2019 cosmeticsjunkiee2 Comments

January is well and truly over, let’s all breathe a sigh of relief and celebrate by taking a look at the up and coming trends in Make Up for Spring/Summer 2018. Some of the trends are not anything new, some trends are wildly out of your everyday comfort zone and some trends are so easy that even those who aren’t make up gurus can master.

Read on for my favourites from the trends, and shop my favourite products to recreate.

Bullet Is Back

I for one, am extremely happy that the liquid lipstick trend is fading fast. My lips have been cracked and dry for too long now that a year of intense creamy application is exactly what I need. Even the liquid lipstick Queens of the beauty world are swapping out the sponge applicators to the creamy bullets. From Kylie Cosmetics favouring their newest range of hard lipsticks to the iconic Kat Von D relaunching her Studded Kiss lipstick bullet collection. Move over liquid lipstick.

SHOP THE LOOK

https://www.katvondbeauty.com/lip/lipstick/studded-kiss-creme-lipstick/40006.html

https://www.kyliecosmetics.com/collections/lipstick

Glitter

I’m here to tell you guys, glitter isn’t going anywhere. You may get used to particles of glitter being permanently ingrained in so many of your other make up products (and your carpet…)

As seen on a variety of models at an ecclectic mix of fashion shows for SS18, glitter is everywhere. At Anna Sui for example, Pat McGrath took to using turquoise shimmer glitter down the centre of the lid. So it’s a little less airy fairy glitter and a little more grunge glitter is what we will be seeing more of come Spring /Summer. My favourite glitters right now are that from Helen-E and Make Up For Ever. Both brands are leading the way in terms of glitter – Head to Helen E for your chunkier glitters and Make Up For Ever for the Diamond Powders for a beautiful shimmering effect. Nikkietutorials herself was first on the ball mentioning them in her Hits and Oh God No’s video 2 years ago!

SHOP THE LOOK

https://www.helen-e.com/cosmetics/eyes/sparkle-glitter-pots.htm

https://www.makeupforever.com/int/en-int/make-up/eyes/eye-shadow/diamond-powder

Liner Everything

Panic not people! If you aren’t the most comfortable with your eyeliner then this could be the trend for you as it would seem the more OTT and the more grungy the better. We have come on leaps and bounds since the oh so seemingly simple winged liner. We have now developed into graphic liner territory, a look which seems terrifying but can be extremely fun to create. Sarah Tanno (Lady Gaga’s MUA) created a rounded graphic liner for Gaga at the start of her Joanne Tour and not long after Pat McGrath created a similar look to make it’s way on to Tom Ford SS18 Show. As intense as these looks were some designers restrained and took a more natural approach by placing coloured liners under the eye to keep it wearable. My advice is have a little browse on the internet or through your Instagram feed to get some inspo, and get creating.

SHOP THE LOOK

http://www.boots.com/maybelline-master-precise-liquid-eyeliner-10172265

https://www.esteelauder.co.uk/product/631/35578/product-catalog/makeup/little-black-liner/thick-thin-ultra-fine#/shade/Onyx

Natural ‘Supermodel’ Skin

To be honest, we say this every year. This will be the year of fresh, glowing skin. This will be the year of no caked foundation. This will not be the year, even for what the trends may suggest. As a Make Up Artist I guarantee that every ‘Saturday Night Make Up’ I do will be based on photograph I’ve been shown from an account like Plouise or Stacey Marie MUA on Instagram. As amazing as these accounts are (and as fun as these looks are to do) and their artistry skills are insane, accounts like these have changed the way younger girls see their faces and their make ups. Since when did it become acceptable to wear a full blown glitter cut crease to go to the shop to buy bread and milk? Anyway, what I am trying to say is that this year is the year we should embrace our natural skins and let a little more of ourselves show.

Oilier skins rejoice as the desired look is seriously glowing, sweat like skin. Invest in some glowing hydrating skin base products this year to give your skin that happy, healthy glow. You will also start to see the decline of the strong intense highlighter… Not sure if I am happy with this one, as I have to confess… the more the better with me. It’s like a drug, I can’t put my Make Up For Ever Artist Face Color H-106 down. It’s like gorgeous, shiny melted butter.

SHOP THE LOOK

Estee Lauder Doublewear Nude https://www.esteelauder.co.uk/product/631/49039/product-catalog/makeup/double-wear-nude/water-fresh-makeup-spf-30#/shade/1N0-Porcelain

Make Up For Ever Highlighter https://www.makeupforever.com/int/en-int/make-up/face/blush/artist-face-color-refill

Make Up For Ever Liquid Illuminator https://www.makeupforever.com/fr/fr-fr/make-up/teint/enlumineurs/ultra-hd-soft-light

So there you are guys, my top picks from the top trends of SS18, let me know what your favourite make up trends are and which ones you are excited play with!

Firmoo Glasses Review

January 25, 2018April 3, 2019 cosmeticsjunkieeLeave a comment

Do you ever put on an outfit and you can’t put your finger on what’s missing to complete it? Add a bracelet and no… a necklace perhaps? No… a kimono? NO. Add a pair of glasses and you are good to go! They make any outfit seriously chic.

It seems to be the ‘cool’ (I hate myself for using that term) thing to do is wear glasses, even when you don’t need them. Which is bizarre because when I was a kid you were made fun of for wearing glasses! Oh how times have changed…

But how do you know what glasses suit you and which ones don’t? Is your face too small or too big for certain types? You can’t just grab a pair on the high street and expect them to suit you! That’s where Firmoo comes in! They even have a system where you can upload a picture of yourself and virtually try on the glasses you like the look of so that you know whether or not you will look ridiculous. With so many styles and sizes it’s hard to know where to even begin… so let me help!

Top Tips For Your Face Shape

Find out your face shape before you do anything – I had no idea what I was so I looked straight into a wall mirror and with a lipstick (messy) I traced the shape of my face. Turns out I have a little round head, like a pea. Doing this will determine the shape of your glasses which best suit you.

Round shape faces should go for glasses that are wider than they are taller as this will give the illusion that your face is stretched out.

Oval shape faces you need to get frames that match the widest area of your face so as not to upset the balance of your features.

Heart shape faces – CAT EYE. Why do cat eye glasses always look so good on heart shapes heads? Heart shape tend to have a wider forehead and a pointier chin so you need frames that are wider than your head or have high points like the cat eye shape to balance.

Square shape faces should potentially avoid square shaped glasses and opt for something more rounded instead to soften the features.

Next step is assess what colour of frames you want to go for and what colours best suit you. So get help telling whether you are warm or cool toned and then get a frame that compliments that. For example, if you are warm skinned (yellow or olive toned) then a frame with a warm hue better suits and cool toned (blueish or pink) suits a cool toned frame – you get me??

Make Up Tips

As glasses tend to cast a shadow under the eye it’s important to have a few tips up your sleeve to get the most from your new glasses.

Concealer – A brightening concealer will be your new best friend in order to keep away your dark circles. A few favourites of mine are the Yves Saint Laurent Touche Eclat and the Estee Lauder Brush on Glow to add that healthy glow. That being said please, please, PLEASE do not apply too much concealer as I have learned the hard way that glasses are like a magnifying glass and will show up every line you have and invent lines you don’t have.

Line and Define – Don’t guffaw at me just yet… but liner is an amazing way to make your eyes stand out through the lens of your glasses. If you have thick frames, you should opt for a thicker line, but if you have softer, thinner frames then you can opt for a thinner line. Your eyeshadow should always be lighter than your frames also to avoid heavy looking eyes.

Mascara – I feel like this one goes without saying however, invest in a mascara (and an eyelash curler) that can do wonders for your eyes peeking behind those glasses. Or, if you can bothered – yes, falsies.

WARNING – Firmoo’s website is highly addictive. I have 15 pairs of glasses in my basket…

The website itself is very easy to use and even has a ‘How To’ section for choosing lens type and reading prescription. Not only that but when you have selected your pair of glasses each pair is custom designed to suit your pretty little face. Have a ruler at the ready as you will be asked for measurements to ensure that your glasses fit. You can also select your lenses and add in your own prescription! If they are purely just for fashion purposes I suggest keeping them as ‘Non RX’ ie. no prescription to keep them on the cheaper side. As IF Firmoo hasn’t held your hand enough offering you everything, you can then choose your lens thickness preference. Like, hello? I’ve never been so looked after in my life and this is a WEBSITE.

Enjoy shopping on the amazing website, I can’t wait to see all your glasses pics on Instagram!

SHOP HERE

You get your first pair of glasses for $4.95! All you have to do is click the link below!

http://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=406938&u=1706277&m=43054&urllink=www%2Efirmoo%2Ecom%2Fpromo%2Dlscytb495%2Ehtml&afftrack=

Glasses Pictured – Style #YSL366 Gold

What’s In My Make Up Bag?

January 15, 2018April 3, 2019 cosmeticsjunkiee1 Comment

I’ll be the first to admit that I have far too much make up than I even need for freelancing never mind just for myself but, just like everyone else I like to keep my daily makeup bag simple. A few products that will change your make up from day to night, from office drab to party glam in a matter of minutes. These products I have in my make up bag are products that I can use without a bigger mirror, making them great for easy and quick application!

Foundation

I always carry a sample of my current foundation with me as it’s smaller than carrying the full product and more convenient. The next time you are in a store buying your foundation, ask nicely for a sample alongside your purchase for handiness. Not all counters sample as is their policy, so pop into Boots or Superdrug and buy a small jar, normally located in the Holiday Travel area and fill it up from your own just in case. This can come in so handy, drinks after work with the girls? Surprise date night from a loved one? More realistically I use it when I spill sauce down my face from eating something. Either way, makes for quick and easy touch ups! My go to foundation at the minute is Yves Saint Laurent All Hours £33.50, beautiful foundation and you need very little so will last you ages.

SHOP HERE

https://www.yslbeauty.co.uk/makeup/complexion/foundation/all-hours-liquid-foundation/WW-21201YSL.html

Powder

I am a lover of face powder but have yet to find the perfect one to suit me. I am currently bouncing around a few powders but in my makeup bag to bring around with me I tend to bring more afforadable powders. I have a habit of dropping them, so when I drop one that’s more affordable then it doesn’t hurt my soul as much. I once dropped my Estee Lauder Doublewear Powder £35 down the stairs and I swear, the sound I made only dogs could have heard. My favourite drug store powder is the Rimmel Stay Matte Powder £3.99 and is never far from my makeup bag. There is no makeup look that can’t be solved by a puff of powder and a lick of lipstick! Plus, powder you can throw on without even looking so there’s not even any need to run to the loos.

SHOP HERE

http://www.boots.com/rimmel-stay-matte-pressed-powder-10097901

Multi Use Palette

Whether you are more of a blush person or a bronzer person, pick the palette that’s right for you and small enough that you can keep in your make up bag. My personal favourite is the Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze and Glow Palette, £49. When I feel in the mood to spend a little on myself and treat myself to make up, Charlotte Tilbury is my first stop, pretty much because of the packaging. If highlight and bronzer isn’t your thing then try the Filmstar Bronze and Blush, £60 instead. Both palettes will give you the ability to sharpen any make up look no matter the occasion.

SHOP HERE

http://www.charlottetilbury.com/uk/filmstar-bronze-and-glow.html

http://www.charlottetilbury.com/uk/filmstar-bronze-and-blush.html 

Brow Gel

Normally I would have said just a brow pencil or powder however, as of recent I prefer a bushier brow and I love the way a brow gel through the hairs look. After work or before I go out somewhere this is always the last thing I do as it lifts a look and brings it to life. I use the Mac Pro Longwear Brow Gel, £14.50 and so easy and quick to use so a perfect addition to your makeup bag.

SHOP HERE

http://www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_123443187599_-1

Eyeliner

Even if I don’t take a make up bag with me I always take an eyeliner. You just never know when the situation calls for a cat eye or a smoky eye. For that reason, I carry both a liquid and a kohl, Mac Eye Kohl Ebony, £14.50 and Kat Von D Tattoo Liner £16. The pencil is best for a quick smoky eye and blend out with your finger, or if you can be bothered then bring a little blending brush in your bag too. Failing that, whip out that Tattoo Liner and cat eye your eyes for an elegant look.

SHOP HERE

http://www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_123443932599_-1

http://www.debenhams.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/prod_10701_10001_123016001499_-1

LIPS

Whatever lip combo you feel your most sexy in, you have got to have that in your make up bag. Not going to lie, I have a ‘natural’ colour and a more out there colour for days where I don’t know what mood i’ll be in. For me I find it best to have a nude and either a red or a deep brown/plum colour to really amp up a look. As Elizabeth Hurley once said ‘Pour yourself a drink, put on some lipstick and pull yourself together.’

SHOP HERE

https://www.rimmellondon.com/en_gb/products/lips/lasting-finish-by-kate-moss

SERUM

I never leave the house without my Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum and I always have a little travel size in my make up bag. Pressing a little of this serum over my make up makes me feel like I can conquer the world. It rejuvenates and re hydrates my skin leaving me with a beautiful glow from within that no amount of highlighter can give you making it a perfect item to add before you head out somewhere.

SHOP HERE

https://www.esteelauder.co.uk/product/681/26959/product-catalog/skincare/advanced-night-repair/synchronized-recovery-complex-ii

FRAGRANCE

I’m a perfume lover, I am always spritzing myself with my favourites scents and love picking up sample sizes to keep in my make up bag. Currently I have Chloe and a Marc Jacobs fragrance in my bag. Beautiful sweet, fresh smelling to lift your spirits for a last minute night on the town!

And so concludes what’s in my make up bag, I would love to hear from you what you put in your make up bag, and if there’s anything I am missing out on carrying around!

Amy Savage

Beauty, Fashion & Lifestyle Blog

Tag: makeup

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10 Best Beauty Buys Under £10

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Top 5 Powders

Top 5 Bronzers

Top 5 Foundations

Top 5 Highlighters

Make Up Trends SS18

Firmoo Glasses Review

What’s In My Make Up Bag?