Vaseline Intensive Care Spray Moisturiser Review

A spray moisturiser you might ask? Say hello to the Vaseline Intensive Care Moisturiser! I’m definitely guilty of being lazy in the body care department so I was up for anything that would make my post-shower routine a little easier. There are three different types of this one of a kind product – Dry Skin Repair, Cocoa Glow and Aloe Smooth. So far I have only tried Dry Skin Repair as I was on the hunt for a basic fragrance free moisturiser and this was the best out of three.
At first it felt like I was applying sunscreen, which didn’t exactly give me the best first impression. However I decided to still give it ago, and let’s just say the idea of spraying on your moisturiser grew on me, it seemed to make moisturising… enjoyable? I have far too much fun with this product but it is definitely an incentive for me to keep up with the oh so tedious task of moisturising daily. This moisturiser is quick drying and non sticky, which avoids the dreaded task of walking around aimlessly waiting to dry before getting changed. The 360 degree spray allows for reaching those hard to get places, with the product being dispensed onto the skin lightly and evenly. If you’re interested in a heavy duty moisturiser then this is not for you, however if you’re on the look out for one to be used everyday then I would recommend this. It comes with a price tag of $9.99, which although isn’t too expensive I feel you’re paying a bit extra for the fact that it’s in a spray bottle and is different to other moisturisers on the market. If you’re not fussed about the spray component, I would suggest you go for something like the Vaseline Total Moisturiser Dry Skin that’ll give you a better deal. The Total Moisturiser is currently half price at Priceline for $5.79 for a 750mL bottle.

Overall I am quite happy with this product and will continue to use it, however I will probably be more inclined to try something different next as it’s not something I would race back to buy. I love the innovative idea and think it’s a great way to encourage looking after your skin.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this product if you’ve tried it!

Sarah x

Cheeky Faves

Following on from my Top 5 Lip Products post, I thought I would do a similar thing for my favourite Blushes/Bronzers. I love trying out new cheek products and have quite a few in my collection which is why narrowing it down to only 5 was tough. So here’s a look into what made the cut…

From L-R – MAC Blush in Desert Rose, Milani Baked Blush in Luminoso, Sleek Blush in Rose Gold, Nars Laguna Bronzer, Bourjois Bronzing Powder in Shade 51

1. MAC Blush in Desert Rose

This blush was my first ever MAC purchase, and it didn’t disappoint. If you’re after a matte blush that is highly pigmented, long lasting and perfect for a natural look, then MAC Desert Rose has got you covered.

2. Milani Baked Blush in Luminoso

Being an avid Youtube watcher of beauty videos, this was a blush I heard raved about many times. Milani is a brand that isn’t readily available in store in Australia, so I had to result to doing an online shop (oh what a shame) and ended up purchasing this from Cherry Culture a while back. As you can see from the swatch it’s a gorgeous coral colour, and has a slight shimmer when applied that’s just enough for a nice glowy look. I’ve got my eyes on Berry Amore for winter time, it’s just too pretty to resist.

3. Sleek Blush in Rose Gold

If you’re more of a shimmer on the cheeks kinda girl, then this is definitely the one for you. Lately i’ve been going through a Rose Gold phase, so this blush had my name written all over it. I have heard this blush compared to various high end blushes, so if you’re looking for a pink blush with gold shimmer then definitely check this out before investing in something that’s triple the price.

4. Nars Laguna Bronzer

As mentioned in my Get The Look post, this was definitely a bit of a splurge for me but was well worth it. Nars Laguna is a great bronzer for adding colour all over or for a bit of contour to the cheekbones. Either way, I would highly recommend this product if you’re fair skinned like me and can’t seem to find the right shade of bronzer. I can gurantee you will fall in love with it just as much as I did!

5. Bourjois Bronzing Powder in Shade 51

Last but certainly not least, this Bourjois Bronzer is more of a recent addition to my collection. It is often referred to the ‘chocolate’ bronzer as inside it is shaped like a block of chocolate, but that isn’t the only good thing about it. When I first swatched it in the shop I was a bit hesitant due to the orangey tinge it has to it, however despite my worries I purchased it and I’m so glad I did. This is slightly more pigmented than Nars Laguna, so I love using it when i’m doing more of a heavy look as it’s perfect for contouring. As far as i’m aware it isn’t available in Australian stores, although it can be purchased from www.asos.com.

I hope you enjoyed a peek into my favourite cheek products, I tried to incorporate some drugstore and high end loves so there’s something for everyone!

Sarah x

They See Me Haulin’

I don’t think the word ‘saving’ exists in my vocabulary… however ‘shopping’ certainly does! About two weeks ago I was having a bit of a treat yo self day and made a couple of sneaky online orders which I thought I would share with you, plus some purchases I made in store. So let’s get into it!

Tanya Burr Lipgloss in Afternoon Tea
This lipgloss was definitely the product I was most excited about (I eagerly checked the letter box for days awaiting it’s arrival – clear signs of a shopaholic). The day I was leaving London, Tanya Burr released her makeup line in Superdrug, so naturally I ran up and down Oxford Street like a mad woman trying to catch a glimpse of her, or her products, but unfortunately I had no luck. After arriving back home I then discovered I could order them off Feel Unique, which is a site I use regularly so I was ecstatic. After much thought I finally decided on the lipgloss in Afternoon Tea, which is lovely nudey/pink colour – the formula of these glosses are amazing and I will definitely have to place another order soon.

Loreal Infallible Eyeshadow in Hour Glass Beige
Continuing with the makeup theme, this eyeshadow has been something i’ve wanted for a while but never got around to picking up. This L’oreal Infallible Eyeshadow is a shimmery beige colour, and when I first swatched it I was blown away by it’s pigmentation. It is almost too pretty to use! My favourite way to wear it has been as an all over the lid colour with a bronze shadow in the crease, or to add a light and shimmery sheen to the inner corner. Retailing for around $19.95 it is on the more expensive end of the drugstore spectrum but it’s so worth the money.

L’Oreal Paris Lumi Magique Pure Light Primer
Primers have never been a regular part of my makeup routine, I usually just slap on some moisturiser before my foundation and i’m good to go. However, this product intrigued me as it claims to provide a boost of radiance – which sounded like something worth trying. So far I haven’t seen any change in the wear time of my foundation, I will be sure to continue using it and keep you updated.

Dotti Quilted Jumper
I have been on the hunt for a quilted jumper to wear during winter, as much as I love my knits I thought it was about time to revamp my wardrobe and change up my style. I purchased this jumper online along with another top when Dotti were having a half price sale, however I ended up with the wrong size in the jumper and the top wasn’t the right style for me. Thanks to Dotti’s great returns policy I was able to easily exchange the jumper for a smaller size and refund the top in store.

Converse Canvas All Star Low Cut
Early last year I invested in some black hi top converse and have had quite a lot of use out of them. I thought it was about time I bought myself a new pair – I feel like you can never have enough of these types of shoes as they are easy to wear and go with virtually everything.

And there we have it, my first haul! I’m sure they will be plenty more to come… confessions of a shopaholic!

Sarah x

Get the Look: Red Lips & Winged Liner

One of the most classic makeup looks of all time is of course Red Lips and Winged Eyeliner. There are many different versions of this look, with countless shades of red lipstick out on the market to suit varying hair colours and skin tones. I love a bit of winged liner but i’m definitely more of a subtle cat eyed girl. Here’s my take on the look…

Base
If i’m wearing red lipstick it’s most likely for a special occasion, as it’s not something i’d be brave enough to wear on a daily basis. To balance out the bright lips I like to go for a higher coverage foundation. The one that does the job is the Revlon Colorstay for Normal/Dry Skin. This foundation has quite a lightweight formula but is still enough to give medium to high coverage. To apply it I use the Sigma Flat Angled Kabuki (F88) which effortlessly buffs it into the skin.
My go to concealer when I want something that will wear well and give me that little bit more coverage is the Collection 2000 Lasting Perfection Concealer . I mainly apply it on any blemishes I have, around my nose and under my eyes.
To set the foundation and concealer I use the Soap and Glory One Heck of a Blot Powder which is perfect for all over to ensure my makeup stays put all night.

Cheeks
When i’ve got more of a heavy look going on I like to keep my cheeks nice and natural. A subtle but stunning blush is Essence Silky Touch Blush in Babydoll, which adds just the right amount of colour without going overboard.
Having pale skin means I can’t wear a muddy brown bronzer or it looks like i’ve just been playing in a pile of dirt. Literally. So, a colour that does compliment my skin tone well is Nars Laguna. Although this was a bit of a splurge I have had a lot of use out of it and still haven’t hit pan… isn’t that just the best feeling?
One of my more recent finds that I save for an evening look is theBalm Mary Lou Manizer highlighter. If you’re looking for a fine powder to use as an eyeshadow colour, add a sheen to your cheeks or as an all over finish before a night out then this is the one. I usually just apply this to my cheekbones with the Real Techniques Setting Brush and it helps to enhance and highlight parts of my face.

Eyes
My favourite type of eye look to wear with red lipstick is light shimmery colours with a bit of black in the crease. The Naked 2 Palette by Urban Decay has all the colours you need in one handy palette. Firstly I apply bootycall all over the lid, tease in the crease as a transition colour and then to finish it off verve & blackout in the outer corner. My go to liquid eyeliner is Maybelline Master Precise, I use this product daily and it is the perfect eyeliner for beginners and for creating that sophisticated flick. In the waterline I use Rimmel Scandal Eyes Eyeliner in black, and to complete the look I add a bit of Maybelline Falsies Flared Mascara to my upper and lower lashes.

Lips
And now for the star of the show… the red lipstick I have chosen to use for this look is Rimmel’s Lasting Finish Lipstick in Alarm . This is a matte red lipstick and is a great, affordable option. As this isn’t a high end product it doesn’t wear as well as some other ones would, however it is easy to reapply and to do so I use a lip brush to get a more precise look.

Let me know what your take on this classic look, i’d love to hear about it in the comments 🙂

Sarah x

 

The Makeup Brushes You Need

Anyone that knows me is aware that I love makeup brushes. It doesn’t matter how many I have, I will always want more. I don’t know what it is about them, but there’s nothing more satisfying than a new, soft, fluffy brush to add to the collection. The one downside to owning a lot of brushes is you guessed it, washing them.  If only there was a magic button that washed all of them for you… a girl can dream right? Aside from all of that, there are many different makeup brands/brushes out on the market, so which ones do you really need? I thought I would share with you the brushes I reach for on a day-to-day basis.

1. Powder Brush

The Your Base/Flawless, Powder Brush by Real Techniques is pure perfection. It’s great for powder, bronzer and fixing up those makeup blunders. Oh and have I mentioned that it feels like a cloud is touching your face? Yes, it is that amazing. This brush can be purchased from www.iherb.com (along with all other Real Techniques brushes) for $10.70. Get on it.

2. Blush Brush

Coming from the same Real Techniques family, the Your Finish/Perfected, Blush Brush is just as good. After discovering this beauty I have never turned back. My other blush brushes sit in their cup looking at me longingly… sorry guys, but the Real Techniques brush is a winner here. This brush is excellent at applying the product without going overboard, which makes for a nice natural flush. As mentioned before Real Techniques brushes are sold on www.iherb.com, and this one is only $9.64. What a bargain!

3. Foundation Brush

I have had a love/hate relationship with the Inglot Foundation Brush, but in the past 6 months it seems to be all that I use. I’ve tried many other typical foundation brushes – the flat top kabuki, stippling brush etc however I feel nothing can beat a good ol’ paddle brush. It applies liquid foundation like a dream. Currently this brush retails for $37, although I’m sure there are many cheaper alternatives that will do the same thing.

4. Blending Brush

I don’t know where I would be without the MAC 217, it is ah-ma-zing. I heard this brush raved about for months so I finally caved and purchased it, and it’s sure worth the hype. This isn’t just any regular blending brush, it is the God of all blending brushes. This brush will literally change your life. Okay, maybe a bit dramatic, but seriously… head on over to your nearest mac counter and you will not be disappointed.

5. Basic Shadow Brush

The Bdellium Tools Shadow Brush was one of my many purchases from Sydney IMATS last year and is perfect for the one sweep and you’re done eyeshadow kinda day. It packs on the colour quite nicely and is just an all round great brush for any sort of shadow. If you can’t get your hands on this particular one, any type of basic shadow brush is a must in your makeup bag for all occasions.

I’d love to hear what your one makeup brush you couldn’t live without is, be sure to let me know in the comments below!

Sarah x

Top 5 Lip Products

When I first started wearing makeup I would always bypass the lipstick section. I don’t know why, but as my 13 year old self would say “lipsticks are for old ladies”. Oh boy how that has changed! I now own multiple lipsticks/lip glosses, many of which are a similar colour (oops). I don’t tend to go out of my comfort zone much with lip products, I like to play it safe with nudes, pinks and corals. For todays post I have tried to narrow it down to my top 5 affordable lipsticks.

 

From L to R – Maybelline Color Whisper in Lust For Blush, Maybelline Color Sensational High Shine Lip Gloss in One Shine Day, Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Lovers Coral, Maybelline Color Sensational Shine Gloss in Glorious Grapefruit, Revlon Lip Butter in Raspberry Pie

1. Maybelline Color Whisper in Lust for Blush
This is now becoming my go-to lipstick for everyday wear. As I am quite pale, I don’t like to wear something too nude so this is the perfect shade if you’re looking for a pinky/nude colour. The formula of these lipsticks are quite gel like, and are more translucent than other lipsticks I own. However, they are very build-able so you can achieve a more opaque look. I find them to be quite hydrating on the lips and they wear well.

2. Maybelline Color Sensational High Shine Lip Gloss in One Shine Day
Recently I received this as a birthday gift from my friend (thanks Alex!) and I immediately fell in love with it. This is a beautiful, subtle pinky coral shade which can be worn alone or over another lipstick. These glosses are quite creamy in texture, and aren’t too sticky which is a big plus for me as I don’t like the feeling of a sticky gloss on my lips.

3. Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Lovers Coral
I purchased this bad boy back in December as I was on the hunt for a nice coral lipstick to wear in Summer. I find that corals compliment my hair colour so when I spotted this colour at the revlon counter I just had to snatch it up. It’s perfect for days when you want to mix up your lip colour a bit without going for something too bold. The formula of the Revlon Super Lustrous lipsticks are great – I think i’m now due for another colour!

4. Maybelline Color Sensational Shine Gloss in Glorious Grapefruit
I briefly mentioned this lipgloss in my Current Beauty Favourites, so I thought I would touch on it a bit more here. This is the perfect gloss to pair with the Revlon Lipstick in Lovers Coral, as it is from the same colour family and adds a bit of extra shine. I have also enjoyed wearing it alone for a more toned down look. I love the consistency of these lip glosses, they wear very well on the lips and I love this shade for spring/summer.

5. Revlon Lip Butter in Raspberry Pie
If i’m feeling a bit more daring I tend to reach for my Revlon Lip Butter in Raspberry Pie. This is a bright magenta shade and is very pigmented compared to the other shades in this collection. The way I like to apply this is with a lip brush to achieve a more precise look. The Revlon Lip Butters have been raved about in beauty community, and rightly so as the formula of these lip butters are amazing, they are hydrating on the lips and are long lasting. There is also a great colour range (around 20 shades) so there’s something for everyone.

Let me know what your favourite affordable lip product is in the comments below!

Sarah x

Mani Monday: Essie Big Spender

With winter fast approaching here in Australia I thought it would be appropriate to treat myself to a perfect cold-weather nail polish.

I decided on an Essie Nail Polish in Big Spender (that name sounds like something I would refer to myself as) from H&M in Sweden, who knew H&M sold lots of makeup goodies as well as great clothes!

I have tried out Essie Nail Polishes before but this one is by far my favourite. The formula seems to be a lot better than the others, and the colour is just gorgeous. The only way I can think to describe it as is a pink magenta with violet undertones.

After applying two coats that seems to be enough to achieve the desired colour, and on top I used the OPI Top Coat which I find works well. The major problem I have with Essie Nail Polishes is that they don’t wear very well. After around 3 days there is noticeable chipping – especially with darker colours. This is disappointing especially considering the price, however the colours are just too pretty to resist.

Overall, I was very impressed with this colour as my past experiences with Essie haven’t been that great. I’ll definitely have to look into trying out some more colours, let me know if you have any suggestions below.

Sarah x

Review: Stila In The Light Palette

I’ve had my baby, and by baby I mean the Stila In The Light Palette, for a good six months now. What a wonderful six months that has been. After eyeing it off for a while I finally caved and purchased the palette off www.beautybay.com for around $44. The palette consists of 10 gorgeous neutrals, featuring the famous kitten shadow. Also included with the palette is the Smudge Stick Waterproof Eyeliner in Damsel, which is a matte chocolate brown colour.

The packaging is compact, light and perfect for travelling. It’s a rose gold colour so it fits in nicely with the neutral theme. The palette has a magnetic lid and inside there is a nice sized mirror, which is an added bonus.

As you can see, this palette is well used and well loved, especially kitten.

At first I wasn’t that impressed with the pigmentation of the shadows, particularly bare and bliss. After playing around with it I have found the colours that work best for me which means I don’t tend to use every colour in the palette. My favourites are kitten, bubbly, sunset and sandstone. If I’m doing a smoky eye then ebony is perfect for a slight touch of black in the crease. What first drew me to this palette were the beautiful shimmery golden colours that are perfect for a neutral eye.

Kitten all over the lid, bliss in the crease, Sunset & Sandstone in the outer corners, Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Liner in Black on the upper lashline, Stila Smudge Stick in Damsel as an eyeliner in the waterline

When applying the shadows you will find that the shimmery/lighter colours are more opaque and the darker matte shadows need to be built up, which makes for a very full proof look.

My final thoughts on Stila In The Light are that it is worth the money if you’re looking for a go to neutral palette. The kitten shadow alone is around $18, so for an extra $26 you get 9 more eyeshadows and a brown eyeliner. If you’re into extremely opaque, bright colours then this isn’t the palette for you but if you’re a neutral girl like me you need this in your life. Currently on beautybay the palette is on sale for $38.10AUD, so what are you waiting for!

I’d love to hear your thoughts below if you’ve tried it, or if you’ve chosen to pass on it.

Sarah x

Current Beauty Favourites

Hello everyone! Welcome to my new blog ‘Blushing About Beauty’. To kick it off I thought I would share with you my current beauty favourites.

Recently I went on a trip to Europe and managed to pick up some new additions that have been on my list of products to get (very big list I might add), and there are also some of my favourites that I just can’t seem to live without. So let’s get into it!

First things first, Bioderma. Now if you haven’t heard of Bioderma before you must be living under a rock, it is talked about constantly in the beauty world as it’s renown for being a holy grail makeup remover. After trying it for myself, I can now confirm that it is definitely worth the hype. When it first became available in Australia at Priceline I checked out the price tag ($29.99 for a 250mL bottle) and thought I would hold off until my trip overseas. When my stash runs out I will definitely have to splurge on a couple more bottles as I don’t think any other makeup remover can compare. It’s very gentle on the skin, doesn’t irritate the eyes and is great for removing eye makeup.

When i’m having a bad skin day, Effacular Duo is my best friend. It’s from the French skincare brand La Roche-Posay and is the perfect spot treatment. I apply it around twice a week, mainly at night, and in the morning I am able to notice a difference. The La Roche-Posay range is available from Priceline, I also recommend the cleanser and toner as they are amazing.

High on my list was the Soap and Glory One Heck of a Blot, which is a translucent powder. Although this is mainly meant for oily skin, I have dry skin and still love it – I can only imagine how great it would be for you oily skinned girls out there! It’s the perfect powder for setting foundation and lasts all day.

Over the last few years I have tried many, many concealers but I can’t seem to stay away from the Rimmel Wake Me Up Concealer. It’s great for under the eyes as it is light-weight and blends easily. There are three shades; Ivory, Classic Beige and Soft Beige so there’s something for everyone.

If you’re looking for a good, inexpensive blush then the Nyx Powder Blushes are for you. My favourite colour is mocha, as it’s a natural, dusty pink colour and is perfect for everyday wear.

Another cult favourite are the Maybelline Colour Tattoos, I have 6 shades (yes, ridiculous I know) but my two favourites are Bad to the Bronze and Barely Branded. They look amazing together – Barely Branded in the inner corner and Bad to the Bronze in the crease. Very quick and easy to apply, just use your fingertips and 10 seconds later you’re done! Ideal for those days you have to leave the house quickly.

Last but not least, the Maybelline Colour Sensational Shine Glosses. I have 420 Glorious Grapefruit, it’s a beautiful light coral colour and I love to wear it alone to add a touch of colour without needing to wear a lipstick. I’ll definitely have to pick up some other shades on my next shopping spree.

And there we have it, my first post. Hope you enjoyed and I look forward to many more.

Sarah x