Mary Kay Limited Edition Celebrate Nourishine Plus Lip Gloss

RRP: £10
Sold via www.marykay.co.uk until November 15th, 2013. £1 from each sale will be donated to charity.

--What does the promo say?--
"Celebrate is a shimmery peachy-pink shade created from the fun swirl of two Mary Kay® lip glosses: Cream & Sugar and Pink Parfait. This versatile colour looks great on any skin tone. From the moment you glide on the creamy, ultracomfortable formula, you get brilliant shine plus an instant boost of moisture that leaves lips feeling soft and supple. The nourishing, nonsticky formula contains antioxidant-rich vitamins and plant-derived minerals to smooth, protect and condition lips."

--Packaging--
The swirl of pink and gold glosses in the plastic tube is definitely new and different, but it's practical as well thanks to the standard lipgloss wand. The pale gold lid also matches the golden gloss nicely while giving a classy aspect to the product and contrasting the pink gloss.

--Application--
Apply on its own, or over lipstick for a multi-layered effect.

--Appearance--
I was initially worried that the pink aspect of the gloss would make the overall effect garish. However, I needn't have been concerned: the result was pale, pretty, and multi-dimensional. The pink and gold combine very naturally together to create an authentic effect that worked well with my skin tone.

--Texture and consistency--
Non-sticky as promised. I like that it contains vitamins and minerals, too (though SPF would be even better).

--Longevity--
Doesn't last a meal, but then again, what lipglosses do?

--Value for money--
The £10 price tag means that it costs the same as Philosophy and Jurlique, so given the quality of the ingredients and the brand's profile, this seems about right. This is a high-quality product that does what it promises, and at £9 for the individual Cream And Sugar gloss mentioned in the promotional material (curiously, Pink Parfait is apparently unavailable), it's easy enough to create the same sort of effect again even after this promotional anniversary period is over. With £1 going to charity too, it also has that feel-good factor. However, I'd say that what this complimentary (thanks, Mary Kay!) lipgloss has most done for me is to reconsider the brand. In all honesty, the only experience I'd ever had with it before was an overly made-up advisor coming to visit us at home in the late 1990s or early 2000s. However, looking at the website, they seem to rival Avon quite nicely in terms of the quality and range of their products, perhaps even going one better. Even though some of their website photography is terrible, they offer something for everyone, whether it's funky neons or anti-ageing skincare. This makes it a brand I would definitely consider more in future, as I can already see some products that appeal.

perfect partners
Dance To Life Anniversary Fragrance, £40
Dance To Life Shimmer Lotion, £15
Special Edition Compact Mini, £56
Limited Edition One Woman Can Lipstick, £13  

Motives Khol Eyeliner

# of shades available: 2 (brown and navy blue)
RRP: £12.50
purchase from http://ukmotives.shop.com

--What does the promo say?--
"Make your eyes your best feature with our Motives Khol Eyeliner. The look can be as subtle or as dramatic as you like, and will stay defined and precisely lined all day. This great eyeliner will not pull the delicate skin around your eyes; it glides on smooth and has all day staying power."

--Packaging--
The plastic wrapping on this is a bit difficult to remove, but once this is done there are no other problems: the ensemble is chic and modern thanks to a unified black and silver colour scheme and a small band of the eyeliner colour at the end of the pencil. This is the kind of pencil you need to sharpen, though, rather than twisting up, which I know bothers some people.

--Application--
As promised, this is not difficult to apply even for eyeliner virgins, as it glides on smoothly without tugging at the skin. Follow the line of the top lashes along, flick out a little beyond the end of the lashes, and then blend for a more muted effect if desired.

--Appearance--
I was kindly sent the liner in Deep Sea Blue by Motives' publicist, and not only does this match my eyes well, but it's also a good complement to a lot of my clothes and makeup, which either are blue or go well with it. As the publicity materials mention, too, the liner can also have whatever impact you want depending on how much you blend: dramatic for nighttime, or subtle for day. 

--Texture and consistency--
Quite soft, which is good in some ways, as it helps with application and blending. However, this hot weather we've been having lately means it risks breaking thanks to being too soft. Perhaps keep in the fridge for safety!

--Longevity--
Again, as promised, it has very good staying power, lasting at least 6-7 hours flawlessly and probably more. 

--Value for money--
I have only positive comments regarding this product's appearance, texture, longevity and ease of application. This is a good supporting case for the RRP of £12.50. However, it's also a bit of a gamble, as there are a few much better-known brands retailing at £12-£13 per eyeliner stick, such as Black Up and Clarins. It's possible that they're trying to bank on the fact that this brand is designed by Loren Ridinger (whose main claim to fame, as far as I can see, is that she is senior vice-president of Shop.com), and trying to make us think, by putting her name on it, that we should all know who she is, should see her as more famous than she is, and that we should be prepared to pay for that privilege. To be honest, it all smacks a bit of the Jerome-Alexander-meets-JML case (although at least Ridinger is a real person who has achieved things, whereas Alexander seems little more than a fictional construct). So to try to reconcile this aspect of the product's price tag with its actual quality is somewhat difficult. However, in spite of my reservations I probably would recommend this product to others. It works well and comes in two classic tones to suit virtually everyone, which is more than a lot of brands manage. In short, Motives does seem to be one to watch - and I do hope that as a result Loren Ridinger is better known.

perfect partners
Pressed Eye Shadow, £12
Lustrafy Mascara, £14
False Eyelashes, £5.50
Eye Base, £12
Essential Brow Kit, £24   

Etude House BB Magic Cream

available for £9-£12 online 
available in oily skin and dry skin variants

--What does the promo say?--
"Contains skin soothing and nourishing Aloe Vera, Chamomile, Madecassol and Centella Asiatica. Promotes flawless complexion with a natural 'No Makeup Look'. BB Magic Cream offers natural looking coverage that nourishes, corrects skin complexion and protects against sun damage."

--Packaging--
Despite appearances in the picture above, the box is actually a very shiny metallic blue, with the tube itself being pale blue. Comes with a screw top lid.

--Application--
'Pat' onto the skin rather than rubbing or blending in the same way as a foundation or tinted moisturiser. Don't ask me why, but it does seem to make a difference with BB creams in terms of how the final result looks. This is easy though; it doesn't take long to get the hang of it. Finish with concealer and powder if you wish. Equally, some people like to precede the application of BB creams with primer, but this really isn't necessary, making this a great product for express makeup routines. A little goes a long way, so don't go mad with the quantity.

--Appearance and coverage--
Can initially appear dull and lacking in coverage, but just give it a couple of minutes to adapt to your skin tone. Greater radiance is apparent quickly, and while I wouldn't say this conceals blemishes 100%, appearance is still much improved. There aren't that many shades available, though, and these tend to be at the paler end of the spectrum, which could disappoint some (although what I have works perfectly for me).

--Texture and consistency--
Not especially stiff. Almost verging on being too runny - if your fingers are already warm it will begin to melt almost immediately upon contact, so work quickly. This is strange, though, given how long it lasts once it's on your face.

--Longevity--
The strange part is that its runny, almost melty quality, once the BB cream is on your face, it will survive even hot summer evenings completely unscathed. Will not rub off or fade on your face in the course of a normal night out.

--Effects on the skin--
Like all good BB creams, this has a good SPF (of 30 in this case) and contains several other positive natural ingredients to improve skin condition over time. It also contains madecassol, which is known to treat wounds and scars. This all suggests that provided you're not allergic to any of these ingredients, you should see a good improvement over time. The differentiation between oily and dry skin types is encouraging, too (I have the oily skin version).

--Value for money--
Mine was bought for me as a present, but I would still pay what's being charged online for this (£9-£12 depending on retailer, including postage). It provides good coverage rain or shine, doesn't require primer as backup to help keep it in place, and is packed full of good stuff to improve skin condition over time. Would definitely purchase a new tube when this one runs out, as this is without doubt comparable to the best of Western BB creams (Clinique, Bobbi Brown...) with a much lower price tag.

perfect partners*
Dear Girls Be Clear Pact Compact Powder, £11
Dear Girls Be Clear Moisturizer SPF30, £9
Baking Powder Pore Cleansing Cream, £13
Baking Powder BB Deep Cleansing Foam, £12
Baking Powder Crunch Pore Scrub, £12
Oh My Goodness! Trouble Break Mist, £15
Golden Ratio Face Glam Highlighter, £14
Wonder Pore White Clay Clear Mask, £18
Baking Powder Pore Cleansing Tissue, £9
Surprise Stick Concealer, £7
Surprise Concealer Kit Cover for Skin Blemishes, £8 

*none of the prices listed above include postage.

Secrets of summer beauty

SPONSORED POST

I already wrote recently about protecting our eyes in the summer sun. However, Annie Levy (makeup artist to stars such as David Guetta and the Made In Chelsea cast, as well as author of blog Make Art Not War) has even more tips for us. She's teamed up recently with World Duty Free and Biza Tax and Duty Free to make these tips into a visual reality thanks to the power of Youtube - and as more videos will be added to the World Duty Free channel over the coming weeks, we should be definitely keeping our eyes open for more of this:

(Try to ignore Annie's mispronunciations of some of the brand names if you can! The rest of what she does is great :)  )

Experts like Annie love to stop by duty-free areas to bulk buy and to get airport exclusives. But that's not all from Annie, oh no. To achieve the epitome of summer beauty, she also suggests the following. As well as always using a sunscreen all over your body (SPF30 or above is ideal, and tinted suncreens for your face are even better, so that you can avoid makeup yet still have a base), Annie extols the virtues of mist sprays for instant refreshment, whether you're in the office, on the tube, at the gym, or on the beach. I like the one by Green People, which smells of orange.

As well as protecting your face and refreshing your body, Annie recommends that you don't forget about your hair. Use deep conditioners in the mornings or evenings to counteract the effects of salt water or chlorine, and you can even buy SPFs for hair: Malibu, Wella, Redken, and many other renowned brands offer choices in this domain. Another top tip to keep hair looking shiny is to apply shine products (if you use them) with a brush to stop hair from looking weighed-down and greasy.

But what about the makeup itself? Beyond the tinted sunscreens for face mentioned above, Annie naturally points out the advantages of waterproof makeup, with many brands now offering mascaras and eyeliners that should stay put even after a swim. But Annie's colour of the season is gold, to help offset a tan with subtle use of shimmer bricks on cheekbones and decolletage. You can even enhance the look with glitter mascaras or lip products. Just go for one at a time though :)

All of the brands that Annie uses in the video above are available in duty-free outlets so that you can bag yourself a tidy discount. Brands I'll be using this summer range from the budget (such as Avon) to the B-list (including Makeup For Ever) - but I'll certainly be looking to get hold of Annie's recommended Clarins Splendours palette from the video too. Have fun following her tips!

Louis Marcel Hair Removal Cream for Face and Bikini Line

 RRP: £5.65

--What does the promo say?--
"The cream removes unwanted hair effectively, leaving the skin soft and moisturised. Formulated with soothing calendula and witch hazel, it helps to maintain the natural balance of your skin."

--Packaging--
The pink and white tube, decorated with a calendula motif, is distinctly feminine and neatly encapsulates the product's virtues of natural ingredients and gentleness. Easy to use; closes securely to greatly reduce the chances of leakage.

--Application--
The brand advises: "Evenly spread the cream, directly onto the skin, ensuring that all hairs are completely covered. Leave in place for 5-10 minutes. The time needed may depend on the stubbornness of the hair, but do not exceed 10 minutes. Remove a small test area of cream with the spatula provided. If the hairs come away easily, remove the rest of the cream with spatula and rinse the hair removal area with plenty of water. If needed, leave the cream on for no longer than 10 minutes." Nothing difficult about this. Application and removal are facilitated thanks to the reusable plastic spatula included in the box.

--Appearance--
A white cream that leaves no visible residue on the skin.

--Scent--
Surprisingly floral and relatively pleasant without being overbearing. Definitely does not fit the mould of chemical-smelling depilatory creams.

--Texture and consistency--
Seems to spread onto the skin smoothly and wash off easily too, while being more robust than a mousse.

--Effects on the skin--
While you do feel a little bit of tingling in the final minutes of the full 10, it's possible that some people won't need to leave it on for long enough to experience this. Unfortunately, some of my unwanted hairs are quite stubborn, so the full 10 minutes was required - and even then success was only partial, eliminating most/all of the finer hairs but not always doing much on the thicker ones. The thickness of the hair growth was stemmed as a result of using this cream.

--Value for money--
This price seems to be in line with hair removal creams from other major manufacturers, such as Veet and Nair, so shouldn't raise any eyebrows. I'd say that if hair removal creams normally work well for you, I'd recommend trying this, as the presence of calendula and witch hazel are definitely different to other creams and serve as a clear plus. However, I can only see it in my life as a complement to other hair removal methods, such as shaving, waxing and plucking (I alternate between these depending on how the hair growth is), as it wasn't quite enough to get rid of all of my unwanted body hair, even by using it for the maximum 10 minutes allowed. You haven't got much to lose by giving it a go though - and make sure you shop online for the best deals.

perfect partners
Hair Removal Mousse, £3
Crystal Gel Body Wax Strips, £6.18

Australian Bodycare Tea Tree Oil Skin Wash

 RRP: £10.65/250ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Australian Bodycare Tea Tree Oil Skin Wash is a gentle antiseptic hand and body wash for everyday use that protects the skin from bacteria and leaves it fresh and hygienically clean. It has a non-drying formula, making it suitable for everyday use for all the family. Tea Tree Oil Skin Wash by Australian Bodycare leaves all skin types feeling refreshingly fresh and clean."

--Packaging--
The green colour scheme immediately evokes images of tea tree oil and the sea, tying together the company's key concepts with ease and creating a unisex package. The pump-action bottle is generally practical, although you may have to pump for a few minutes before the first use.

--Application--
Lather up under the shower and use to wash your body before rinsing. Can also be used as a hand wash.

--Appearance--
A pale yellow-green gel that doesn't look lurid and leaves no visible residue. Lathers up to a generous pale foam.

--Scent--
The bitter tea-tree comes across strongly, in a way that might seem too overpowering or even clinical for some.

--Texture and consistency--
The gel is not sticky at all and while it lathers up well (thanks to the SLS it contains), it doesn't provide a luxurious experience. Washes off well when you want it to.

--Effects on the skin--
A successful body and hand wash that cleans the skin thoroughly without irritation. Sustained use may see a reduction in spots on the body. Don't use on your face, though, as it's too harsh, and will dry out your skin without eliminating spots. 

--Value for money--
The naturally hygienic and antiseptic properties of this will appeal, although the presence of SLS may be offputting to some. One bottle lasts a while even with use all over the body in the shower, as you don't need much to get up a good lather. However, I'm looking for a more luxurious shower experience, so wouldn't bother replacing this once my free bottle runs out. For utility and luxury in one bottle, at this price I'd be more likely to purchase products from brands such as Nougat London, thisworks, or Jurlique.

perfect partners
Hand and Body Lotion, from £8.95
Deodorant, £6.40
Hand and Foot Treatment, £9.35
Foaming Skin Wash, £12.35
Hygienic Wet Wipes, £10.40 for 85 wipes
Femigel, £7.85 for 15ml
Hand Cream, £7.25
Exfoliating Body Wash, £10.20  

Dove Original Compressed Deodorant

RRP: £2.89

--What does the promo say?--
"New Dove compressed with ¼ moisturisers and Vitamins E. Effective protection plus care in a little can. Use Dove compressed just like your normal 150ml Dove aerosol and it will last just as long. Dove compressed leaves underarms visibly soft and smooth and feels gentle on your skin. Alcohol free and dermatologically tested. 48 hour antiperspirant protection."

--Packaging--
These are really dinky, making for perfect beauty packing, and have a great ergonomic design. The blue and green colour scheme also makes for a really fresh feel.

--Application--
Now, for some reason this deodorant comes out of the can with quite some force, even when you only apply normal pressure. So make sure you have a door and/or window open when you apply as I found that the atmosphere in the room became quite suffocating.

--Appearance--
No white marks. This seems to be something that deodorant manufacturers are getting better at all the time, which is great.

--Scent--
Clean and fresh. Nothing to write home about really.

--Effects on the skin--
As I mentioned in my Vaseline deodorant review, I'm not going to subject the claims about softness and smoothness to extensive testing - who needs that? However, it's non-irritating in my experience, and I like the fact that it contains vitamin E. It didn't keep my underarms dry and destinkified for as long as the Vaseline deodorant though, and as such, while I'd be willing to test Vaseline's 48-hour claim more thoroughly, I'd feel less confident about trying this with Dove's compressed deodorant.

--Value for money--
Most deodorant manufacturers jack up the price as soon as they're within smelling distance of a 48-hour claim, and this seems to have happened a little bit here, but it doesn't seem to fleece the consumer as much as some products I've seen. The slightly higher price tag is arguably justifiable as many people who want to travel light will be willing to pay for the privilege of being able to pack a 'smaller' deodorant when off on their travels. However, I wouldn't buy this once my free aerosol from Dove has run out - it just didn't keep me dry for as long as I would like.

M Micallef Art Collection Rouge 2013

RRP: €185/100ml

--What does the promo say?--
"Parfums M Micallef...is announcing the launch of the new ART COLLECTION with a duo of gourmand and sensual fragrances: Rouge N°1 and Rouge N°2...The M Micallef Company gives priority to qualitative and natural ingredients in its fragrances...Martine Micallef has reinterpreted the Art Deco fundamentals [combining] geometrical figures, cubic cap and bottle adorned with circular shaped Swarovski Crystal Rocks. Floral-fruity eau de parfum Rouge N°1 combines delicious yellow fruit and a generous bunch-of-flowers heart, warmed by the vanilla and white musk base. Oriental-floral eau de parfum Rouge N°2 mixes the refinement of a bunch of jasmine, orchids and violets with oriental scents of amber, vanilla and animal notes."

--Packaging--
The samples sent to me for free by M Micallef were just plastic vials. However, it's true that the bottles themselves look very impressive. My only worry is that this extravagance in the packaging could drive up the price of the perfume itself.

--Application--
Spritz onto pressure points to have the scent linger all over your body.

--Scent--
The Rouge N°1 is, in my view, far too heavy, evoking images of overly made-up old ladies and retro film stars (and sadly not in a good way). I suspect that the overbearing ylang ylang is responsible for this, with the other aspects of the scent not getting a look-in. Perhaps purchase for your grandmother!

On the other hand, Rouge N°2 is a delight, and perfect for young ladies or the young-at-heart. Sparkling and uplifting, it is carried on the blissful wings of violet, citrus and blackcurrant. Vanilla and jasmine ensure it isn't too sharp, while nutmeg and amber make sure it isn't sickly sweet. Unique and perfectly balanced.

--Longevity--
M Micallef's perfumes are made with very high-quality ingredients, so while you may wish to reapply once during the day just to get that burst of the head notes again, it's not strictly necessary, since even though you stop smelling it, it does last all day.

--Value for money--
On the one hand, I can't blame you for the sharp intake of breath that I myself experienced upon realising how expensive M Micallef's fragrances are. Alongside the absolute cost, relatively speaking I can see why people might want to go for a bigger name: for a similar price, you can choose eaux de parfum from brands such as Giorgio Armani, Guerlain, Yves St Laurent or Acqua di Parma. On the other hand, such a quantity (remember we are talking about a 100ml bottle here) would last you an incredibly long time - with daily use, I'd estimate a minimum of 18-24 months. Rouge N°2 is a unique scent using high-quality ingredients that would give you a kick out of using a limited edition perfume whose fragrance you really love every day for nearly two whole years. Plus, you'd have the moral satisfaction of supporting a smaller parfumière, as opposed to one of the big boys. The choice is yours.

M Micallef perfumes can be purchased in the UK at Fortnum and Mason, as well as at Harrods (at Roja Dove's).

Vaseline Derma Beauty 48h Antiperspirant Deodorant

 RRP: £1.95

--What does the promo say?--
"Beautiful underarms with New Vaseline Derma Beauty. Contains ProDerma, a skin caring complex that can help protect the underarm skin. Keeps you dry and fresh all day long with a soft, light fragrance. Alcohol free, non sting formula and dermatologically tested, suitable for sensitive skin."

--Packaging--
There's perhaps a bit too much pink on here for non-girly girls, but nevertheless the white, navy and pink colour scheme of this aerosol can provides a pleasant balance. The Vaseline logo is instantly recognisable and information is clear without overloading the user. No problems with the spray or lid.

--Application--
After washing, spray onto clean dry underarms. Easy as.

--Appearance--
This leaves no white residue on underarms or clothes - unusual for any deodorant.

--Scent--
Smells clean and fresh without being clinical or chemical. Reminiscent of cotton.

--Effects on the skin--
This does as promised: while perhaps not a priority for most users, this leaves underarms feeling soft and smooth (although who goes around stroking their own - or other people's - underarms I'll never know). More importantly, it is non-irritating and leaves underarms feeling dry while warding off body odour effectively, even on real scorchers of weekends like this one. I'm not sure how far it would stand up to 48 hours between sprays, but it definitely will see you through the day and into the evening, which is what most people want, I think.

--Value for money--
Most manufacturers see a 48-hour claim as an excuse to jack up the price of a deodorant. This is the first one I've seen that's priced under £2, with most 48-hour deodorants being double this retail price. This works really well for all budgets and situations, whether you're trying to pack light for an overnight stay at a friend's place, or trying to get through the British summer free of wet patches. Would recommend. 

Dalton Cosmetics Lash Fix Tilting Mascara

RRP: £15
NB. The brand is also known as Doll10 on some websites.

--What does the promo say?--
"When it comes to fantastic lashes, it's all about the angle! Twist this duo of Lash Fix Tilting Mascaras and achieve the perfect angle for coating lashes in hard-to-reach inner and outer corners without making a mess. The dense black mascaras deliver stellar volume, length, and curl, and even feature Nutra 6 Complex to condition lashes. Flake-free and smudge-free."

--Packaging--
The shine of the pink lettering and contrasting black tube is eye-catching and different. This mascara also has the unique selling point of a lid that twists the mascara wand in order to create a tilting effect, so that smaller and corner lashes can be more easily reached. However, this function broke quite quickly, meaning that mine is now stuck on the tilted setting.

--Application--
Twist the lid to set the tilted function. This can be done whether the wand is in or out of the tube. After this, apply the mascara normally.

--Appearance--
A greater lengthening effect is achieved thanks to the tilting function, as it does mean that smaller and corner lashes are coated more effectively. 

--Texture and consistency--
Mostly goes on smoothly, although some clumps are evident.

--Removal--
This is difficult. Even with a normally reliable makeup remover, panda eyes are still visible in the morning.

--Value for money--
At £15, this is pushing the upper limits of good value, especially given that this product has a few faults. For this price, I'd be looking more at mascaras by Urban Decay, Aveda, Fashion Fair or Benefit.
 
perfect partners 
Airless Creme Eyeliner, £19
Airless Brow Fix, £19
H2Glo Highlighter, £20