Saturday 29 October 2016

Maybelline Colour Tattoo - Fantasy


Hello Lovelies

You may remember in my last beauty haul post that I picked up a couple of the Maybelline Colour Tattoo's, one of them was in the shade Fantasy, I have used it quite a few times since buying it and today I thought I'd share my thoughts on it with you. 




Fantasy is a really pretty neutral shade, I would describe it as a bronze/taupe shimmery shade with silver glitter particles running through it. When swatching Fantasy, I decided I would put down a thicker layer and then blend it out a little with my finger to hopefully try and show you how Fantasy would look packed onto the eye and then blended out. 


The shimmer is stunning and the silver glitter particles add something extra meaning Fantasy can be worn as a daytime and night time shadow, it is super easy to use and applies like a dream. I like to apply it with a flat shadow brush and blend it out with a fluffy brush, I always use a base on my lids before using any powder or cream shadow because I have super oily eye lids and my favourite base to use under cream shadows is the Painterly Paint Pot by MAC, it is brilliant to use under any cream shadows. 

Fantasy is a gorgeous shade, I love it, it has a lovely creamy formula, is extremely pigmented and a little really does goes a long way, it doesn't crease at all and looks exactly the same when it comes time for me to remove my makeup as it does when I apply it. I have used makeup wipes, micellar water and balm cleanser to remove my makeup when wearing Fantasy and each removed it well without leaving any remnants of the product at all.

I have worn Fantasy Colour Tattoo a few times recently and each time I have had so many compliments off friends and family and also on Snap Chat and Instagram and I have been asked if I will write a post on the look so that post will be up soon if you're interested.  

I don't have any negatives at all to say about the Maybelline Colour Tattoo in the shade Fantasy it is a lovely product and if you haven't already added this to your collection I highly recommend you do. You can pick it up on the Superdrug website HERE priced at £4.99, Superdrug currently has a 3 for 2 offer on all cosmetics. 

Have you tried Fantasy? Which is your favourite Maybelline Colour Tattoo? Let me know in the comments section below. 

Thank you for reading, much love as always 

Zoe x






                                                        





SaveSave
SHARE:

Friday 28 October 2016

New Superdrug Optimum - PhytoHydrate Anti-Dehydration Birch Water Skincare Range

Superdrug Optimum PhytoHydrate Anti-Dehydration Birchwater Skincare Range

Hello Lovelies,

I am a bit of or should I say a lot of a skincare geek, so when I received the new PhytoHydrate Anti- Dehydration Birch Water range of skincare from Superdrug I was rather excited, it was a complete surprise but a very welcome one, especially since I have extremely dry and dehydrated skin so I was very eager to try it. 

About The Range 

The new Superdrug Optimum skincare harnesses hydration power of Birch Water. During 2015 coconut water was the celebrity favourite with stars swearing by the drink and beauty companies selling out products containing the tropical fruit. Now Superdrug is predicting that Birch Water will become the latest big celebrity must have, it has less sugar content than coconut but is packed with even more hydration properties. 

For over a decade the Optimum skincare collection has offered cutting edge skincare at a highstreet price and this year the Optimum PhytoHydrate Anti-Dehydration Birch Water range looks to offer those with dehydrated skin an alternative to expensive designer products. Superdrug has worked with Swiss skincare scientists to create a collection which harnesses the hydration properties of birch water and offers the perfect solution for dehydrated skin. 

Both products are cruelty free and suitable for vegetarians and vegans. 

Superdrug Optimum PhytoHydrate Anti-Dehydration Birchwater Skincare Range

Trying The Range & My Thoughts

Optimum PhytoHydrate Anti Dehydration Birch Water Micellar Tonic

Superdrug Optimum PhytoHydrate Anti-Dehydration Birchwater Micellar Tonic

Superdrug Optimum PhytoHydrate Anti-Dehydration Birchwater Micellar Tonic

The micellar tonic comes in a plastic bottle with a pouring application, the bottle has a small hole to enable you to pour some of the tonic onto a cotton pad without it spilling everywhere and going to waste.

Superdrug Optimum PhytoHydrate Anti-Dehydration Birchwater Micellar Tonic

I like to use micellar cleansers first thing in the morning to remove any residue from my skin care products the night before or I'll use them as my evening cleanser if I'm not feeling up to a full skin care routine. The first time I used the micellar tonic, the first thing I noticed was the scent, it has a really lovely scent to it, the best way I feel to describe it is that it smells fruity but fresh and it smells very nice indeed. 

I applied the micellar tonic to a cotton wool pad and swept it across my face and neck, the micellar water is gentle enough to sweep over the eye lids too and didn't sting my eyes or face. My face was left feeling clean, fresh and hydrated. I have been using the micellar tonic for a couple of weeks now and I really like the way my skin feels after using the micellar tonic, my skin can feel tight when using a cleansing water but it doesn't at all with the PhytoHydrate which is alcohol free and suitable for sensitive skin, it feels lovely, it is especially nice to use in a morning too because of the fresh scent it's lovely and refreshing.

I know some people like to use micellar waters to remove makeup so I have used the micellar tonic to remove my makeup too so I could let you know how it performed as a makeup remover, it did remove all my makeup.  I had to use 4 large cotton pads to remove a full face of makeup which is standard compared to other cleansing waters I own. The micellar tonic did remove all my makeup but I much prefer to use it as a cleanser so that is how I have been using it apart from trying it the once to remove my makeup. 

Optimum PhytoHydrate Anti-Dehydration Birch Water Day Cream SPF 15


The PhytoHydrate day cream comes in a plastic bottle and has a pump applicator, I really like moisturisers with a pump applicator as they are so much more hygienic than sticking my fingers in a pot of moisturiser. The day cream has the same amazing scent as the micellar tonic, it really is a lovely scent and possibly the most pleasant I have come across in a skin care range. 


I use 2 pumps of the day cream for my face and neck, I was surprised at the consistency of the cream,  I thought it would be more lotion like but it isn't, it is quite thick but lightweight which I like. The day cream sank into my skin beautifully and didn't feel tacky or leave any kind of residue. 

I have as I said extremely dry and dehydrated skin and usually use quite a thick moisturiser especially over the autumn/winter months so I did worry that the PhytoHydrate wouldn't be enough for my skin but I was pleasantly surprised, the first time I used the day cream I used it on it's own straight after using the micellar tonic because I know not everyone has a full skincare routine and may buy both products and use them that way, I was surprised at how hydrating the day cream was without using my usual acid toner, skin tonic and serum before hand. 


My Overall Thoughts

I have been using the products for a couple of weeks now and I am really impressed with them both, I absolutely love the micellar tonic, it is so refreshing and leaves my skin feeling lovely and soft and not tight at all, I have used it every morning and I have found myself skipping my usual evening cleanser on no makeup days and just using this because it is so nice and gentle on the skin. 

The day cream is lovely and so much more hydrating than I'd hoped, it is fabulous and I am really enjoying using it as my daytime moisturiser, it sinks into my skin really nicely without leaving any tackiness or residue behind and my skin is left feeling soft, smooth and hydrated. My makeup applies well after using the day cream too, it has a nice consistency, it isn't too thick but it definitely isn't a lotion type consistency either, it feels soft and silky on the skin and is lovely to apply. Both the products have the same lovely scent and smell incredible. 

Overall I am really happy with both products, they are both fabulous products and it feels like I am using luxury skincare products that usually come with a much higher price tag and I would highly recommend both products, I have very sensitive and eczema prone skin and haven't experienced any irritation at all from either product. There really aren't any negatives I have found at all since using the products, they are great products that have been an absolute joy to use and I will continue to use them and will definitely purchase more when they run out. 

If you would like to try the new Superdrug PhyroHydrate Anti-Dehydration Birch Water skincare range, you can find the micellar tonic HERE priced at £4.99 for 200ml and the day cream HERE priced at £14.99 for 50ml, Superdrug currently have a buy 1 get 1 free offer on selected items so now is a perfect time to try the range if you would like to. 

Thank you for reading, much love as always

Zoe x


✿ Post contains PR Samples or Gifted items 


















SHARE:

Tuesday 25 October 2016

Trying Out New MAC Products

Trying Out New MAC Products

Hello Lovelies,

Being a beauty addict and beauty blogger, I always love finding out about new product launches especially when the new product launches are from one of my favourite brands, so when I received 3 recently launched MAC products, I couldn't wait to try them. 

The products I received are the Studio Fix Perfecting Powder, the Studio Fix Perfecting Stick and the Brow Sculpt pencil which all recently launched both online and on counters and in stand alone stores in the UK. I have been using all 3 products for 3-4 weeks now and wanted to let you know my thoughts on them, this is a lengthy in depth review post so grab a drink and make yourself comfortable before reading. 

MAC Studio Fix Perfecting Powder

MAC Studio Fix Perfecting Powder

MAC Studio Fix Perfecting Powder

The Studio Fix Perfecting Powder is available in 9 shades and I have the shade Light Plus, I thought it might be a little dark for me at first but it is fine. The powder comes in a pot with a black plastic lid and inside is a black sticker/tab to stop the powder spilling out, under that is a net like fabric where the powder is dispensed. 

MAC Studio Fix Perfecting Powder

MAC Studio Fix Perfecting Powder

What MAC Say About The Studio Fix Perfecting Powder

A pro-quality, refined loose powder to set makeup with a matte finish. Infused with nourishing ingredients, it wears comfortably for hours without feeling drying. With sheer coverage, MAC Studio Fix Perfecting Powder is a universal makeup must for beginners and buffs alike

Application & My Thoughts

The information I received described the powder as an Instagram filter for your face,  now I very much doubt that I am ever going to look like I have used an Instagram filter, but anything remotely similar will do for me so I was eager to try the powder and see if it did in fact make a difference. The information also said the powder is meant to help to blur out fine lines and pores and is nourishing so it can be worn for a long period of time without drying the skin. I have fine lines, pores and very dry/dehydrated skin so choosing a powder is always a bit of a task for me as most powders tend to look really cakey on me meaning I never really look at buying new powders. I have 3 in my kit, I have a Vichy loose translucent powder that I have been using for a few months which I really like, I also have the MAC Blot Powder which I love and have re purchased numerous times and I have the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless powder which is nice but very over priced as it runs out very quickly. So I'm not a huge connoisseur of powders and never look at them unless I need to buy one and then would usually re purchase the Blot Powder but after reading all the information on the Studio Fix Perfecting powder I was really eager to try it out and desperately hoped it would be as good as I hoped and do exactly what it said on the tin.  

I have applied the powder using both a brush and a makeup sponge and I much prefer using the makeup sponge to apply the powder. I use a small sponge to apply the powder under and around my eyes and a standard size sponge to apply the powder everywhere else. I dab my sponge onto the net to pick up the product and then bounce the sponge onto my skin to apply the powder, sometimes I need to shake the tub a little to bring some powder to the surface of the net. 

The first time I used the powder I was blown away, now I wouldn't say I looked like I had an Instagram filter over my face but I could tell a difference, my skin looked lovely and not cakey at all, usually after applying my powder, I spritz my face with a primer water or setting spray to stop me looking cakey but I didn't do that the first time I used the powder because I wanted to see if there was a difference and I haven't ever had to use a primer water/setting spray when using the powder, my skin isn't cakey looking or feeling at all. I have used the powder every time I have applied my makeup since receiving it and really like the way it looks and feels, it feels so lightweight on my skin. 

The powder applies beautifully and my makeup stays perfect all day, I get very hot sometimes because of the pain I am in and the medication I take and my face can get a little sweaty (sorry if that's a bit TMI) and my makeup can go patchy. I wore the powder on a recent shopping trip and it was super hot in the shops and I got very hot due to my pain/medication but when I got home, my makeup looked exactly as it did when I applied it. 

I am so impressed with the powder and would go as far to say it is the best powder I have ever used, it applies beautifully, doesn't move all day, doesn't settle into my fine lines and pores, and helps to blur out my fine lines and pores and my skin looks so much better. I recently posted a selfie on Instagram and twitter and so many people said my skin looked nice and asked about my makeup and it's all down to this powder. 

The photograph below is a comparison photograph of me wearing the MAC powder and wearing my usual translucent powder. 

MAC Studio Fix Perfecting Powder

Hopefully you will agree with me that there is a noticeable difference between my skin on the photographs. I highly recommend the Studio Fix Perfecting Powder, it is amazing and I will most definitely be purchasing another one when mine has run out, I cannot rave about it enough and if you've been reading my blog for a while, you'll know it isn't like me to rave about a face powder, you can try the powder at a MAC counter or stand alone store or you can pick it up online HERE priced at £21.00 for 8g of product. 

MAC Studio Fix Perfecting Stick 

MAC Studio Fix Perfecting Stick NW20

Another product in the Studio Fix range is the Studio Fix Perfecting Stick a new concealer launch, I have the shade NW20 but it is available in shades from NC15 to NC50 and NW15 to NW50 so there are plenty of shades to choose from. The Perfecting Stick is a twist up chubby pencil style concealer, the packaging is the usual black but it has a slight sparkle and a concealer coloured end, the lid is easy to pull off and the concealer twists up effortlessly. 

MAC Studio Fix Perfecting Stick

MAC Studio Fix Perfecting Stick

What MAC Say About The Studio Fix Perfecting Stick

A chubby twist-up concealer pencil that hides dark circles, blemishes and other skin imperfections thanks to its precise rounded tip and propel/repel abilities. The formula is super-blendable with medium-buildable coverage, and sets to a natural matte finish that feels powdery and appears seamless on skin. Its portability and mess-free application make it the perfect product for on-the-go touch-ups.

Application & My Thoughts

I really like the application of the concealer, it applies really well and is very easy to use. I use the concealer under my eyes, around my nose and on any blemishes I may have, I find it super easy to apply and it blends into my skin beautifully. I apply it straight from the stick under my eyes and then use a small makeup sponge to blend it out, I have applied it both on top of and underneath my foundation and it looks nice both ways but out of habit, I prefer to use it on top. The concealer blends beautifully and feels very smooth on the skin, it dries down to a matte finish but doesn't look at all dull, I haven't had any issues with the concealer settling into my fine lines underneath or around my eyes or into any dry patches I have. 

The first time I used the concealer, I had a nasty cold sore and very sore area of skin at the side of my mouth, I used the concealer to cover it by taking a cotton bud (que tip) and applying some of the concealer to the sore area and then blending it out with my ring finger and then I set the concealer with the Studio Fix Perfecting Powder and it covered really well and looked great. I have used the concealer every time I have applied my make up since receiving it and I like it more each time I use it, the first time I used it, I liked it and was pleased how well it covered my cold sore and sore patch of skin but I felt it wasn't as good at covering my dark circles as my much loved and re purchased Select Moisturecover Concealer, but as I have used it more and more I really like it and as I said, I have used it every time I have applied my make up since receiving it. 

MAC Studio Fix Perfecting Stick Swatch NW20

I am really pleased with the concealer and would recommend you giving it a try, it does come off a little lighter than expected, I usually use NW15 as my under eye concealer and thought this maybe too dark when I saw it was NW20 but it isn't, and as you can see by the swatch, it is quite light. The Studio Fix Perfecting Stick was a lovely surprise, from me thinking I wasn't going to like it, to me using it all the time, it is a great product, it applies well, blends beautifully and looks lovely on the skin, it doesn't move from application to removal and doesn't settle into any fine lines or dry patches I have, it really is good. 

If you would like to give the Studio Fix Perfecting Stick a try, you can find it HERE priced at £16.00 for 10g of product. 

MAC Brow Sculpt Pencil

MAC Brow Sculpt Pencil

Last but by no means least is the MAC Brow Sculpt Pencil, I have the shade Lingering but it is available in 8 shades. When I first saw the shade I thought it would be way too dark for me and had I been purchasing it, I wouldn't ever have gone for the shade Lingering, but it is fine and looks perfectly ok. The Brow Sculpt pencil is a dual ended brow pencil with a propel/repel applicator on one end and a spoolie brush on the other. 

MAC Brow Sculpt Pencil

MAC Brow Sculpt Pencil

MAC Brow Sculpt Pencil

What MAC Say About The Brow Sculpt Pencil 

An elegant, retractable pencil with a chiseled tip that adheres to your brow hairs, shaping and gently filling in with matte colour. The angled tip lets you size and shape them any way you want. Use the flat edge for a natural, diffused look or the pointed tip for a precise HD effect. Remove the opposite end cap to find a grooming brush to set your look.

Application & My Thoughts

My first thoughts when I removed the lid of the Brow Sculpt pencil were that it reminded me very much of the Benefit Goof Proof eyebrow pencil, the pencil is shaped in the same chiseled triangular way and both products have a spoolie brush on the end too, the packaging is completely different though. 

To apply the pencil I brush my brows through with the spoolie and then lightly take the pencil through my brows using the flat edge to fill in the thicker areas and then I use the thinner edge for the tail of my brow. The pencil is easy to use and fills my brows in nicely leaving them looking natural, I like my brows to look that way but if you prefer a more drawn on brow you can achieve it by using the thin edge of the pencil. Once I have finished my brows I brush them through again with the spoolie. 

MAC Brow Sculpt Pencil Swatch In Lingering

As I said I did think Lingering would be way too dark for my brows with me being blonde, but it wasn't at all and is almost exactly the same shade as my usual Benefit brow pencil, it is slightly warm and slightly warmer than my Benefit brow pencil in shade 2 but used lightly it looks fine and I have used it each time I have applied my makeup since receiving it. 

As you will see in the photograph below, there really isn't much difference at all between the shades of the Benefit Goof Proof pencil in shade 2 and the MAC Brow Sculpt in Lingering, Lingering is ever so slightly warmer but there isn't a massive difference between them. 

MAC Brow Sculpt Pencil Swatch In Lingering

I am really happy with the Brow Sculpt brow pencil, it stays in place all day from application to removal, it is easy to use and looks nice and natural too, I am the worlds worst at filling my brows in and really struggle to do it but I find the pencil really easy to use and I like the way my brows look when I use it, so if you're a complete novice or you're just rubbish at filling your brows in like me, I would recommend giving the Brow Sculpt pencil a whirl, if I can use it, anyone can! 

I would like to try the shade Fling or Omega in the Brow Sculpt pencil as I have used Fling in a MAC brow pencil before and I used Omega eye shadow and an angled brush for years to fill in my brows, so I am going to check out both of those next time I am close by a MAC counter. 

If you would like to try the MAC Brow Sculpt Brow Pencil, you can find it HERE priced at £16.00 for 0.23g of product. 

Me after using all 3 products

Using New MAC Products

I am really pleased with all 3 products, my favourite has to be the Studio Fix Perfecting Powder, it really is incredible and I never ever thought I could be so enthusiastic about a powder, the concealer is great as is the brow pencil and I'm really pleased I had the opportunity to try the products, as I probably wouldn't have done otherwise with being happy with my concealer, brow pencil and powder, but it just goes to show that we should try new things because sometimes they really can make a difference. 

Thank you for reading this incredibly long and picture heavy post, much love as always,

Zoe x

✿ Post contains PR Samples or Gifted Items 










SaveSave
SHARE:

Saturday 22 October 2016

Pimps And Pinups High Voltage Hair Pop Paint - Ideal For Halloween

Pimps And Pinups High Voltage Hair Pop Paint - Ideal For Halloween

Hello Lovelies

Halloween is fast approaching and many of you will be deciding on or have already decided what your choice of outfit will be this year if you are going to or having some sort of Halloween celebration. Myself and Simon are off to a house party so keep an eye on my Instagram to see our outfits, we are going as each other so it should be rather amusing, and very very scary! 

As we have found out over the last week whilst looking for props for our outfits, wigs can be very expensive and a much cheaper alternative is to colour your own hair rather than buy a wig and today I have some great products from the brand Pimps & Pinups to show you how you can colour your own hair without having to go to the salon. 

Who are Pimps & Pinups?

Pimps & Pinups are a hair salon based in London and New York, they also have a range of specialist hair products, the High Voltage Hair Pop Paint being part of that range. 

What Pimps & Pinups Say About The Hair Pop Paint

High Voltage Hair Pop Paint comes in 6 vibrant colours that allow you to achieve an edgy new look without spending hours in the salon. With easy application and zero mess, High Voltage produces instant colour that won't drip or stain the skin. The colour easily washes out making it the perfect go to product to make a bold statement. The first ever to work on blonde to black hair and everything in between. 

Pimps And Pinups High Voltage Hair Pop Paint

The Hair Pop Paints come in a black plastic spray bottle with a black plastic pull off lid, they have a spray nozzle to apply the product. The shade of the Hair Pop can be clearly seen on the front of the bottle. Each bottle contains 40ml. 

Using The High Voltage Hair Pop Paints

My eldest daughter Cole is a professional makeup artist and Halloween is one of her busiest times of the year, she has a lot of clients booked in but she also likes to create 2 or 3 looks every year on herself to show her clients and potential clients what she is capable of. The day after I received the Hair Pop Paints, Cole was creating her first Halloween look of 2016 and asked if she could use them, of course I said yes, because who better than Cole to try out the Hair Pop Paints? 

I received all 6 shades of the Hair Pop Paints, the shades are Fountain Blue, Pretty Peach, Panther Pink, Bondi Beach, Sub Lime and Purr Pull. 

Pimps And Pinups High Voltage Hair Pop Paint

For her first Halloween look, a broken doll, Cole used Panther Pink, Cole said the Hair Pop sprayed with ease and she didn't have to push down hard on the nozzle, Cole sprayed the Panther Pink on most of her hair  for a vibrant look. 

Cole thought the Hair Pop was easy to use but she would advise covering dressing tables, vanity area's and clothing as the spray did transfer onto hers, it did wipe off with some cleaning solution so no harm done but it is something I thought I should mention. The Hair Pop leaves a kind of hair spray, crisp type feeling to the hair and Cole was able to style her hair using it, the more spray she used the more crisp her hair felt so where she had used most of the Hair Pop near her roots, her hair felt like she had used hair spray. The Hair Pop washed off Coles hands easily with soap and water. 

Some of Coles hair is bleached and the Panther Pink clung a little to the bleach, meaning Cole had to wash her hair more than once to get the pink out of her hair, it was easier to remove from the areas of her hair that aren't bleached but if you do have bleached hair you may need to wash it a few times to get the colour out. 

I also sprayed the Hair Pops in my partner Simons hair because he has black hair so I wanted to test how well they showed up, and the colour did show up really well. Cole has naturally mid brown hair with bleach in parts and the colour showed up fine on her hair too, Simon was able to wash the Hair Pops out of his hair using a normal shampoo. 

I sprayed the Hair Pops onto a sheet of white paper to show you how the colours come out, I couldn't show you Bondi Beach as it is white and wouldn't show up but it is just a regular white spray. 

Pimps And Pinups High Voltage Hair Pop Paint Swatches

I would agree with Pimps & Pinups that the Hair Pops are easy to use and they don't stain the skin, but they can be a little messy and I wouldn't advise using them near any clothing or furniture that you don't want coloured but I would have assumed that anyway using any spray hair colour to be honest. They are a great way of adding colour to your hair that will wash out but look great and are brilliant for any kind of fancy dress or Halloween looks. 

If you want to create a Halloween or fancy dress look or you just fancy a change of hair colour and you want a vibrant colour that will show up on any hair colour and wash out again, I would recommend picking up the Pimps & Pinups High Voltage Hair Pops. You can find their range on the ASOS website HERE, the High Voltage Hair Pops are priced at £7.99 each. 

And before I go I will show you the Halloween look that Cole created and her Panther Pink hair. 


Are you dressing up for Halloween this year? If you are, let me know in the comments section below what you are dressing up as. 

Thank you for reading, much love as always

Zoe x

✿ Post contains PR Samples or Gifted Items




SaveSave
SHARE:

Friday 21 October 2016

Brush Works The Complete Complexion And Contouring Kit - As Good As A Beauty Blender?

Brush Works The Complete Complexion And Contouring Kit

Hello Lovelies,

My favourite way of applying foundation is with a complexion or makeup sponge, I have been applying my foundation with a sponge for around 2 and a half years now and since using one for the first time, I have always used a sponge and never gone back to using a brush. I really like the way my foundation applies and for me it looks a lot better using a sponge. I have 2 sponges in my kit, 1 is the Real Techniques sponge and 1 is the infamous Beauty Blender, since starting to use the Beauty Blender last Christmas I haven't used the RT sponge as I much prefer the BB and to be honest haven't looked at another brand because I believed nothing would compare to the Beauty Blender. 

I recently received the Brushworks Complete Complexion And Contouring Kit, I was so excited when I received the kit and I couldn't wait to use the sponges. The kit contains 3 sponges, a small pink egg shaped sponge, a large pink egg shaped sponge and a purple hourglass shaped sponge, I was excited to try all 3 sponges but the one that excited me most was the purple one, as I hadn't ever used a complexion sponge in that shape.  

The sponges are made from the highest quality hydrophilic material and are latex free. They are designed to be used wet so that they absorb only the amount of product necessary but they can also be used dry.

Brush Works The Complete Complexion And Contouring Kit

Brush Works The Complete Complexion And Contouring Kit - Can It Be As Good As A Beauty Blender?

Brush Works The Complete Complexion And Contouring Kit - Can It Be As Good As A Beauty Blender?

The sponges come in a clear plastic box with pink detail on the front and a white back with details of the sponges in the pack and usage tips. The 3 sponges are clearly visible through the front of the packaging and behind the sponges, the "wall" of the box has a mirrored effect and the box was sealed with a clear sticky tab. Inside the box is a clear plastic casing in which the sponges are housed, I found it very easy to get into the box by removing the clear sticky tab and found the sponges, easy to remove from the casing.   

Brush Works The Complete Complexion And Contouring Kit - Can It Be As Good As A Beauty Blender?

Using The Complexion & Contouring Kit

The first time I used the sponges I rinsed them in warm water and squeezed the water out by hand and then used a thin towel to wrap each sponge in individually and squeezed the sponge, there are no rules in doing it this way, it's just how I prepare my makeup sponges before I use them. I like the sponges to be damp and not wet.

The first sponge I used was the small pink one and I used it to apply my under eye corrector, I applied the corrector under my eyes with my ring finger and used the small pink sponge to blend the corrector out. I used the round end and bounced it gently on my skin and then used the pointed end to get right into the inner corner of my eye. Once I had applied my foundation, I used the small sponge again to apply my concealer, I applied the concealer to my face with the doe foot applicator it comes with and then used the sponge to blend it out under my eyes and lastly on a blemish I had. 

Brush Works The Complete Complexion And Contouring Kit - Can It Be As Good As A Beauty Blender?

Next I used the large pink sponge to apply my foundation, I popped some foundation all round my face using my finger, I put the foundation on my chin, both cheeks, nose and forehead and then used the sponge to blend the foundation in. I used the rounded edge of the sponge and bounced it on my skin to buff the foundation in, I used the pointed end of the sponge to apply my foundation around my  nose and under and around my eyes. 

Brush Works The Complete Complexion And Contouring Kit - Can It Be As Good As A Beauty Blender?

I used the purple sponge to apply my cream contour, I used the pointed end of the sponge to apply a "stripe" of product where I wanted it on my face and then used the rounded end of the sponge to blend out the cream contour by gently bouncing the sponge on my skin. 

Brush Works The Complete Complexion And Contouring Kit - Can It Be As Good As A Beauty Blender?

I also finished my makeup by using the large pink sponge and the small pink sponge to apply my powder, I dipped the rounded end of the sponge into my powder and bounced it onto my skin to apply my powder, I used the large sponge all over my face and the small one to apply the powder under my eyes. I used the pointed end of the large sponge to apply the powder around my nose. 

My Thoughts

I have used the sponges every time I have applied my makeup since receiving them apart from once because I wanted to test my Beauty Blender against the large pink and small pink sponges as I own both the standard size Beauty Blender and the Micro Mini one. 

The first thing I noticed when I used the Brush Works sponges was how lovely and soft they are, they are super soft and feel lovely on my skin, they don't absorb too much product so they don't waste my foundation and concealer and they apply my foundation beautifully giving me a flawless finish. 

I was really excited to use the purple sponge because I hadn't ever used a makeup sponge like it before and I love it, I have used it for applying and blending out cream contour and also cream blush and highlight, it is also brilliant for applying foundation, it's a fabulous and very versatile sponge. 

I can get right into the inner corner of my eyes easily using the small pink sponge and it is brilliant for applying my corrector and concealer to my under eye area and also for applying my powder too to set my under eye concealer. The first time I used the sponges I had a pretty sore and nasty looking area near the corner of my mouth where I'd had a cold sore and the small sponge was brilliant for applying concealer and powder and did a fabulous job of covering it, I used both ends of the sponge to work the products into my skin and the results were fantastic. 

I am absolutely over the moon with all 3 of the sponges, they are all fantastic for applying different products, they all feel amazingly soft and all apply products beautifully giving a flawless finish. All 3 sponges have washed really well, I wash them using a solid soap, I have a couple of different brands and both have been fine and the sponges all wash really well and dry back to their original shape and size. 

I cannot think of any negatives to say about the sponges, they are absolutely brilliant, they do exactly what they claim to do and are all fabulous and before I started using the Brushworks kit I never thought I would say this but the sponges are as good as my standard size and micro mini Beauty Blenders and work just as well and I never thought I would find a makeup sponge that I liked as much as the Beauty Blender but the Brush Works sponges have proved me completely wrong. 

If you would like to try the Complete Complexion & Contouring Kit, you can pick it up for £11.99 here, and I would highly recommend you picking the kit up, you won't be disappointed!

Have you tried the Brushworks complexion sponges? Do you use a sponge to apply your makeup? and if you do which is your favourite complexion sponge to use?  

Thank you for reading, much love as always 

Zoe x


✿ Post contains PR Samples or Gifted Items





SHARE:

Tuesday 18 October 2016

Wash Wizard - Shower Fresh Without A Shower

Wash Wizard - Shower Fresh Without A Shower

Hello Lovelies

I recently received an email asking if I would like to try the Wash Wizard, I'd never heard of the brand or product previously to receiving the email, so I researched the company and product and after doing so I said yes please, because not only did I think the product sounded really interesting and I was intrigued to try it, but I really liked the sound of the company and the people behind it.

Who Are Wash Wizard? 

Wash Wizard was set up by four 17 year olds, Rosie, Freddie, Sol and Siam who are passionate about making a lasting difference in the community. They have taken it upon themselves to make sure that their product will have a benefit to people in need of support by giving a percentage of their profits to homeless charities in the UK. 

Wash Wizard - Shower Fresh Without A Shower

What Wash Wizard Say About The Product

Wash Wizard is the number one solution to getting shower fresh without the shower. It is impregnated with a body wash solution suitable for body and hair, no additional liquids, gels, soaps or creams are needed and there is no need to rinse. The Wash Wizard is hypoallergenic and unscented and contains Aloe Vera to moisturise and soften the skin, it doesn't leave a sticky residue and is light and easy transported and is fully reusable and recyclable. 

Wash Wizard - Shower Fresh Without A Shower


Wash Wizards are ideal for -

✿ Festivals
✿ Camping
✿ School Trips 
✿ Sports
✿ Work
✿ Travelling 
✿ Commuting

How To Use A Wash Wizard 

1. Unwrap
2. Splash With Water
3. Squeeze To Activate
4. Get Washing
5. No Need To Rinse
6. Air Dry 

Wash Wizard - Shower Fresh Without A Shower

My Thoughts On The Wash Wizard

I was very intrigued to try the Wash Wizard and from researching the product to it arriving I couldn't wait to see it and try it out. The Wash Wizard comes in a box which is rather plain looking with the company logo on the front, the box is fully recyclable. Inside the box are 5 Wash Wizards individually wrapped, the packaging they are wrapped in is also fully recyclable. 

I followed the instructions on the back of the Wash Wizard packaging and unwrapped it, I was pleasantly surprised at the size of the sponge and to be honest thought it was going to be much smaller and maybe expand with water but it doesn't, it is a good size and stays the same size once water is added to it. 

Wash Wizard - Shower Fresh Without A Shower

Once I'd added water I squeezed the sponge and the foam started to come out, it doesn't have a scent to it at all and did a perfectly good job of washing me, since I was testing the Wash Wizard as it would be used, I didn't rinse and air dried. I have very sensitive/eczema prone skin and the Wash Wizard didn't irritate my skin at all, feel sticky or leave any sort of residue on my skin.

I think the Wash Wizard is a really great product and will be ideal for so many situations, I have friends who go to festivals and they usually take baby wipes which can cost anything from around £2.00 upwards, a box of 5 sponges it is £7.99 and you can't reuse a baby wipe but if you didn't have a full body wash with the sponge, you could easily pop it in a zip lock bag and use it again, or you could cut the sponges in half so you have more and some of the profit goes to charity so a good product with a good company ethos. 

I really do like the Wash Wizard sponges and think they would be brilliant for lots of different things especially festivals and camping trips, they can be used with any sort of water, tap water, bottled water, river water, well water or rain water so you don't have to have access to a tap to use them and the more water you add, the more foam you get. I like that they are unscented and hypoallergenic and that there is no need to rinse. I personally don't go to festivals or camping but I can imagine trying to keep clean isn't easy and the sponges are so easy to use and fully recyclable they would be a great thing to take, keeping clean and hygienic is something that puts a lot of people off going to festivals or camping but I think the sponges could change that opinion for some. I have told so many of my friends about the Wash Wizard and they are all really impressed with the concept especially those who go camping or to festivals or have children who do.

Overall I think these are a brilliant product and I am glad I had the chance to try them out because I wouldn't have known about them otherwise and they really are a fantastic product that do exactly what it says on the tin, all the packaging is recyclable, that combined with the company donating some of their profit to charity is excellent and I would definitely recommend the Wash Wizard if you are going to have an occasion where you might need them, and they are much kinder to both your skin and the environment than baby wipes, I am very impressed!

If you would like to try the Wash Wizard for yourself, you can purchase them via the wash Wizard website HERE priced at £7.99 for a box of 5 individually wrapped sponges. 

Had you heard of the Wash Wizard sponges? Or have you used them? What do you think? Let me know in the comments section below, I'd love to know your thoughts. 

Thank you for reading, much love as always

Zoe x

✿ Post contains PR Sample or Gifted Item/Items
SHARE:
Blogger Template Created by pipdig