Rimmel London I Love Lasting Finish Nailpolish Review

Recently I bought some Rimmel London nailpolishes, they were on sale, so I couldn't resist! I usually change my nailpolish every week so they will be used. I bought a few, but love this color its 199 Go Cobalt - a beautiful Midnight blue type color.

The range is the I love Lasting Finish which they claim should be a long lasting color, and chip resistant.

I applied this on my nails and after about 4 days I saw a little chip on the side of one of my nails, and it was around about day 6-7 that it was time to change my nailpolish. Thats pretty good actually, so I'm quite impressed with this nailpolish.

They have another range called the The Rimmel London 60 second nail polish that I have tried and love more than this one. They retail for about $10 from Priceline or department stores.

Whats your favourite nailpolish?

Maybelline Eye Studio Quads - Legenday Lilac Review

I really like Maybelline eyeshadows, so I bought the Maybelline Eye Studio Quad in Legendary Lilac. I love purples and pinks, so I chose this quad which has beautiful colors.

Working from left to right of the palette, the first shade is for the base- its a really light white with pink in it, the second shade is for the lid a beautiful pink colour, the third is to contour the crease - a gorgeous light lilac purple and the fourth is to define and line the eye - a deep purple colour. The formula is a beautiful silky, creamy blend. The texture is soft, making it easy to blend the colors.



The colors in this Legendary Lilac pallette are a lighter color on, then what they look like in the pallette, which was a shame. But you can mix and match them however you like. There is a guide on the back of the pallette on how to apply the colours. These colours are shimmery as well, so if you dont like shimmery eyeshadow then this may not be for you. The shimmers are only noticeable depending on the lighting.

Overall a great product, and there are a few great shades to choose from. They retail for $16.95aud

Do you have a favourite eyeshadow at the moment?

Is it time to throw out your makeup?

All makeup products have a expiration. They can cause skin and eye irritations if you dont throw them out when they are expired.

A tip that I do: I write the date that I bought the product on the product with a black marker, so that I know how long I have had it for.

Most products have a symbol (like the one above) that looks like a container with a open lid and the number of months that the product is good to use.  I have used products for longer than recommended but its good to know what the expected life span is. Generally if the product has a unusual smell or doesn't look right then its better to throw it out.

Here is a guide for how long a product can be used for :

Foundation- Most foundations have the symbol telling you how long it is good to be used, usually its one year. Keep your foundation in a  dry cool place and closed tight. If its kept in light or direct sunlight, has a funny smell or the texture isn't right then its expired.
Lipsticks have a life span of one and half years if opened and up to two years if packed. Keeping them in the fridge, keeps them from melting. They should be kept in a dry cool place and always closed properly after the use. If your lipstick has a funny smell or is sweating, it can be expired.
Eye Shadows and Eyeliners - can last about 12-18mth. A lot of eyeshadows now have the symbol on them telling you how long they are good to use.
Make up brushes should be cleaned regularly.  If you see that they are out of shape then it may be time to buy new ones.
Nail Polish - usually about a year.  The bottle should be kept tightly so that air shouldn't enter inside.
Mascara has a very short life span. Usually only three months. I have used mine longer, but again if there is a funny smell or it doesn't look right, it should be thrown away.

Have you done a clean up of your makeup lately?

The Beauty Club -for all your beauty needs! - Have you joined yet?

I have recently discovered The Beauty Club  a fantastic online beauty store in Australia that offers a great selection of products from all the major brands. There is access to over 16,000 leading brand cosmetics, skincare and fragrances, all at heavily discounted prices.

 The Beauty Club has great luxurious skin care products, beautiful make up and excellent hair care.

 Membership to The Beauty Club is $55 per annum. There are so many benefits to this membership such as:

• Guaranteed 10-20% cheaper than leading online websites and 70% cheaper than retail stores.
• No questions asked if you have found it cheaper, the beauty club will beat the price.
• 2-3 free Beauty products per year
• Concierge service, looking for a gift idea or need beauty advice our concierge service will take care of it for you! Just submit your request.
• Free Subscription to regular beauty advice eMagazine
• Free Shipping worldwide
• Dedicated customer support, reply to your support question within 24-48 hours
• Free cosmetic, skincare and fragrance samples provided when available
• Fantastic monthly specials on fragrances, skincare and cosmetics
• Very Secure and safe shopping environment with express checkout
• Restricted membership numbers to ensure product availability
• Free Gift wrapping and Free gift cards
• Dramatically cheaper than all online stores and retail stores

I do most of my shopping online and The Beauty Club is definitely a fantastic online store. I am so excited it has such great brands like MAC, Lancome, Estee Lauder, Dermalogica, Chanel, Dior, Laura Mercier, Bobbi Brown and many more!

All your beauty needs will be satisfied with The Beauty Club and with worldwide shipping  - check it out NOW! www.thebeautyclub.com.au

Pantene Pro-V Daily Moisture Renewal Intensive Treatment Review

I have been using the Pantene Pro-V Daily Moisture Renewal Intensive Treatment and really think its made a difference for my hair.

After having my hair bleached a few months ago, my hair is dry and damaged from the colouring.  This product is working wonders to restore moisture back into my hair. Its easy to use, once you shampoo and condition your hair, you then apply some of this treatment and leave it in your hair for 1-3mins, and then rinse out.

I have found this to be revitalizing,  it enlivens my hair and keeps it feeling hydrated and healthy. I am really impressed with this product and recommend it, if your hair is dry or damaged.  I have also done a video review on this product, you can watch that here.

This is available from supermarkets or chemists and retails for around $10.

Interview with a Celebrity Makeup artist, Brandy Gomez-Duplessis

Hello everyone!
I had the opportunity to interview the awesome Brandy Gomez-Duplessis, a celebrity makeup artist making her new home here in the NYC! Lucky me. Here is how it went:

1. What wedding services do you provide? I offer traditional makeup, airbrush makeup, brow shaping and eye lash extensions. Brides can also hire me for a one time application, half day where I follow them to the church and give them one more touch up before walking down the aisle, and full day where I stay with my bride until all her professional pictures are done including her cake cutting. It’s like having a personal makeup artist for the day.

2. What makes Brandy Gomez-Duplessis makeup artistry unique? (Smiling) I have been told by my past brides, who I have become close to, the same thing of what makes me unique. I calm them and make them all feel very special. To have a celebrity makeup artist on their wedding day to give them a glamxurious look, is amazing. Plus, I personally noticed that most of my brides are girly like me (laughing).

3. Could you please explain your process? I’m an energy person and an artist so I get to know my brides first. I look at pictures of them, their dresses, their flowers, their bridesmaid’s dresses. I talk about how they will wear their hair, what time of day they are getting married, where they are getting married. I ask questions about their skin which is very important and then I find out how they have always dreamed about looking. After all that, I prep the clients face based on their skin type and I start the makeup application. At the end, I apply everything on a face chart because a lot of time brides book my makeup services a year in advance, that way I don’t forget what was applied. So on the day of the wedding, I have the brides colors packed in ready for when I arrive.

4. What can you advice brides and couples to be aware of or avoid when hiring their makeup artist? I always share with my brides to definitely communicate with the makeup artist. Brides should have a consultation so both parties will be on the same page. Bring pictures on the consultation of themselves with makeup on, and of what look they have in mind. With many trends out, they will all not work on everyone. Smokey eyes cannot be worn the same way, so this is why a consultation is needed. If a bride is going to tan or has any skin problems, it can be discussed at the consultation. This can affect the makeup on the wedding day. I understand we are still in a recession, but you do get what you pay for. Also to be safe you should have your makeup artist fill out a contract to lock in your wedding date and time to ensure no double booking.

5.  Can you work with all skin types? Including Sensitive skin? Yes, I have been blessed that my talent has allowed me to work with all ages, all races and all skin types. As long as my client communicates any issues she has like sensitive skin, than I am able to adjust.

6. What are the latest trends in make up? I try not to follow any makeup trends because the client may not be able to wear what’s trendy. That trendy looks does not always work for the everyday average women. I like to select colors and items that will compliment my bride. A bride that’s 25 cannot wear the same amount of colors a bride that is 50 getting married for the second time. I do find that my modern brides like bolder eye shadow colors and lipstick colors. One trend I can say that will always be around is lashes; strip lashes and individual lashes.

7. What was your favorite celebrity to work with? My favorite celebrity that I applied makeup on has been Kim Kardashian. Kim has amazing skin and she can wear any makeup look you put on her. Plus she’s a girly girl. She loves being pampered and loves makeup just as much as I do (laughing). When I do makeup on a client that is very receptive about getting their makeup done by me, it makes my job fun.

8.  What musts should a bride have for her wedding makeup? Any tips? Brides should make sure that their makeup artist apply waterproof mascara for when they cry during their vows, loose powder to set their foundation, and use a cream eyeliner so their eyeliner does not smear or smudge when they perspire. 

Thanks Brandy for the great tips!!!

Here is her info:
Brandy Gomez-Duplessis

917.438.9156 

brandy@bgdmakeupartistry.com

www.bgdmakeupartistry.com

www.twitter.com/BGDmakeupartist
www.insidethelifeofamakeupartist.blogspot.com

Face of Australia Face Base Primer Review

I never use to use a face primer, didn't even know what it was. But after doing some research I found that a Face Primer helps to prepare your face for makeup and help it stay on longer.
So I bought the Face of Australia Face Base Primer and love it !

This Primer contains vitamin E to nourish and hydrate the skin, and the chamomile helps to smooth the complexion, leaving it feeling fresher and brighter. You only need a tiny bit of this and it goes a long way. It gets absorbed into the skin really quickly, which is great.

Once you've applied it, you apply your foundation as per usual. It really does help keep the foundation on longer and smoother. I have also done a You Tube Video review on this product here.

If your also looking for a eyeshadow primer check my review here.

Its available at Priceline or some department stores for $10.95. I definitely recommend this!

Tips on using eyeliners

I love eyeliner and the way it looks on any eye. However I haven't been using eyeliner much, so I want to start using it again. If your like me and want to start using eyeliner again here are a few tricks and tips.

A few tricks to applying eyeliner:
1.Liquid liners are great but require a steady hand so practice, practice, practice,and you will get it right.
2.Pencils liners are easier to fix, have a wet cotton bud handy.
3.Applying eyeliner in short strokes rather than in one long one as this helps to control the amount and way you are applying.
4. Once you sharpen your eye pencil, gently rub the end on a dry tissue to soften it, hence making it easier to draw/use.

Depending on what type of look you want, you can choose:
Liquid eyeliner to create strong, well defined lines.
Pencil liners are better when you want a softer, smudgier effect.
Creamy pencils create a strong line and can also be smudged into a smokier look.

Do you use a eyeliner?

Perfect wedding favors or brides maid gifts!

Can't Find the Perfect Wedding Favors or Bridesmaid gift?

There is an elegant answer for the style-savvy bride! A custom Lip Palette to match your wedding style!

Carli Windsor Custom Favor lip palette design offers the perfect mix of style and sophistication for your special event. Each favor is a beautifully designed custom cosmetic compact that is a unique reflection of your personal style; truly crafted to fit the specific décor and theme of your inspired vision.

I also think they make a cute bridesmaid git too! Or even a nice bridal shower gift!

To see more of Carli's gorgeous custom favor designs visit her website here!

How to apply Bronzer for a natural glow

I love using Bronzer it gives the skin a natural glow.  Bronzer provides a smooth and even application on all skin tones.  When choosing a shade, always go for one or two shades darker than your skin tone.

For perfect application a big and wide brush is needed. ( I use manicare brushes as shown in the picutre)

Dab the brush into the color,  tap it on the back of your hand to remove any access. Apply the bronzer starting at your cheekbones ( make a fish face to see your cheekbones), sweep up the hairline and up to your forehead. ( You can do this the opposite way too if you prefer, starting from the forehead, down the hairline and onto your cheeks) Brush down lightly applying bronzer to each side of the nose and under the lower lip.

ORLY Nailpolish review

I only recently came to discover the nailpolishes by ORLY. Hadn't heard of them before, I like using my usual revlon, or maybelline type of nailpolishes.
I recently got the Pixie Dust color (#40710) which is a shimmery color in the Orly nailpolish - Once upon a time collection. It is a baby blue color with grey in it to make it a bluey - greyy color.

When you apply the nailpolish it comes out watery/weak,  but builds color as you apply more. I applied two coats to get a good coverage and color.

I'm impressed with the result. The color and coverage is great. This particular color has a little shimmer in it, noticeable when you look at it closely. Orly have lots of different collections, with many beautiful matte, creme, and shimmery colors. This nailpolish didn't start chipping until about day 7 which is the only nailpolish that lasts that long from what I've tried so far.

I'd probably buy one or two more colors to add to my collection.

They are only sold in pharmacies or salons and retail for $18.95.

Do you have a favorite nailpolish? leave a comment

Rimmel Sexy Curves Mascara Review

I have tried many mascaras, and I have found the one that I love. Its the Rimmel Sexy Curves mascara.

The packaging is a gorgeous purple color. After applying one coat you will see the mascara doing its job, giving you a subtle, long lash result. If you apply two layers it will give you a thicker, darker result.

It is easy to apply and the wand is thin, has three curves to help apply the product to your lashes easily, separate and boost the lashes. It gives great definition, volume and you lashes look full.

It is also great for people with sensitive eyes or contact lenses.
It is great to use everyday, with or without eyeshadow. It retails for $17.95.

I have also done a video review on You Tube if you would like to watch it HERE

What mascara do you wear? leave a comment

Maybelline Dream Mousse Blush review

I bought the Maybelline Dream Mousse Blush in soft plum (40) and love it. It is a gorgeous, deep pink color.
It is a whipped formula which glides on really smooth and blends easily.

It feels so soft and comfortable on the skin. It has a great texture to it, nice and fluffy.
You can build up the color,  but you dont need much, just a dab or two to create a soft luminous look. 

There is some shimmer in this blush, but I think it doesn't show that much just adds a glow to the cheeks which I like. But if your not into shimmer or creamy blushes, then maybe this is not for you.

I apply it with my fingertips direct from the product, or you can also put a small amount on your hand and mix it around first and then apply. I find it to hard to apply with a brush due to the moussey texture.

I have tried other products in the dream mousse range and like them too.

Have you tried this blush? Leave a comment

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion Review

I had to share this product review with you, because I love it!!!

I have always had a problem with oily eyelids, no matter what whenever I put on eyeshadow after about a hour or two, I would get the crease lines.

After using the Urban Decay Eyeshadow primer, I don't have this problem anymore. My eyeshadow stays on perfect all day, no crease lines yay! Its easy to use, it has a wand that you just need one dab of on each eyelid and then just rub into the eyelid. Now your ready to apply your eyeshadow. I love it, and will always use it. Its a must buy!!!

Do you have problems with your eyeshadow staying on? Have you used this? Leave a comment!

Maybelline Express Finish Nailpolish review

I love buying nailpolishes and when I saw the Maybelline Express Finish 60 second nail color - I had to try it. How cool to have nail polish dry in 60 seconds.
I bought the 120 berry fast - its a beautiful just right pink color - it not too dark and not too light.
It applies very easily and thickly, and leaves no streaking, once its dried it does look thin so I apply two coats. It also does dry within a minute or two, which I like.
The product says that application lasts 5 days and its anti chipping for 5 days. I found that after 3 days one nail started to chip a tiny bit, but the rest were ok.
Overall its pretty good if you want a nailpolish that dries quickly and there are great colors to choose from too. I would buy it again.
Do you have a good nailpolish you like to use? Leave a comment and let me know

I love perfume!

I cannot leave the house without perfume. I have some everywhere. In my car, handbag, bathroom, my room and kitchen. I need to put some on everyday.

I love smelling beautiful, it gives me a feeling of confidence and feel presentable.

At the moment, I am using Lovely by sarah jessica parker.

Love the smell its a fresh, soft, flowery scent. It actually does last all day, like eight hours which is great. People always comment when I wear this perfume and say how nice it smells.

I like the bottle too - looks elegant.

What is your favorite perfume? Leave a comment and let me know!

Maybelline Expert Wear Eyeshadow quads review

I recently bought the Maybelline Expert Wear Eye Shadow Quads in Charcoal Smokes. For a smokey look the colors look great and are easy to apply.
You can build the color by dampening the brush to give you intense color.
The quad comes with a application guide on the back showing you where to apply which color. The lighter shade onto your lid. Blend the medium shade into your crease. The lightest shade to your browbone. Blend the darkest shade into the outer corner for the finishing touch to your smokey look. There are many other colors to choose from and it retails at around $15.95.

I have uploaded a quick tutorial on the smokey eye look on my You Tube Channel HERE

Have you tried this eyeshadow? Do you have a favorite eyeshadow? leave a comment

Revlon - nailpolish review

I love Revlons nail polishes. The latest one I bought is the Iced Mauve 151.
Its a nice classy, subtle and feminine color. The nail polish gives you a creamy, opaque finish.
Great to wear for any occasion casual or formal.
It applies evenly and smoothly. The brush is easy to use.
Even after one coat the color is great, but I usually apply two coats which will last about a week.
I highly recommend this nailpolish - its roughly about $13.95

Do you have a favorite nailpolish? - leave a comment and tell me which one.

Winter Skin - Dove Energy Glow Moisturiser Review

With winter only a few days away, you will no doubt start feeling a change in your skin. Mine is starting to go dry. I have combination skin and I am finding the dryness in my skin's t zone.

Skin produces less oil in winter which means your skin can go dry, flaky or rough. Its best to exfoliate once a week.

Your skin can also become more red due to the continual change from cold weather outside to indoor heating. A refreshing spritz can be good to cool the skin.

A moisturiser is very important to be applied everyday and night. At the moment I am using the Dove Energy Glow night moisturiser - I really like it, its great for my dry skin. It feels really nice, smooth and silky when applying. Its a vitamin enriched moisturiser which helps restore uneven and damaged skin cells. I wake up with my skin feeling refreshed.
Be sure to find a moisturiser that suits your skin and make sure you are using it this winter. You can let me know in the comments what you are using!

Interview with a New York makeup artist Lauren Napier Weddings

I met Lauren awhile back and was happy to be able to get a quick interview with amazing NYC Makeup artist.

Enjoy!

1. What services do you provide?

My services are strictly makeup services! I feel like you should always 

do you your job at 100% not 50% makeup and 50% hair! I am 100% a makeup artist!

2. What makes Lauren Napier Weddings unique?

My servce are unique because I practice restraint! I love makeup - but I do not think that a bride should be slatherd in products. 

I feel that a bride should look like the most elegant version of herself. I am able to help brides achieve this look by using nourishing

skincare products as a base, fresh and clean foundation products and cheery toned colors that boost the skin's natural highlights 

and radiance. 

3. Could you please explain your process?

I recommend a bridal consultation prior to any bride booking her wedding day makeup. 

The Lauren Napier Weddings consultation includes a complete makeup trial in a full service salon this also includes  a complete custom lash application.

I take a digital before and after image for the bride's review, as well as create a product list for my records that will be used as a guide on the day of her wedding. 

On the wedding day I arrive prepared and my brides are confident in my skills. Most brides compliment the process and feel a great sense of ease amongst all 

of their other wedding day jitters. 

4. What can you advice brides and couples to be aware of or avoid when hiring their make up artist.

I can give 2 pieces of advice:

1.  "You always get what you pay for!" Invest in your makeup artist. For most women, their wedding day is the most photograped day of their lives. Why would she want to look her best?

 and 

2. Never wax your brows the morning of your wedding!

 

5. Can you work with all skin types? Including Sensitive skin?

I can work with all skin types. I love the challenge of ethnic skin - it keeps me on my toes! A sensetive skin's needs are more complex. In this case I recommend 

that she see a dermatoligist at least 6 months prior to her wedding. A medical expert can provide her with the medications or skin care system that will 

reduce sensetivities. 

6. What are the latest trends in make up?

The latest trend in makeup are bold and bright. As spring and summer approach more bold neons and bronze will appear. I adore a bold lip! 

To view more of Lauren's amazing work visit Lauren Napier Weddings.

Thanks Lauren!