Poppy Sloane Tres Chic Mascara Reformulated

RRP: £15

--What does the promo say?--
"We have listened!  We have now made this more volumising, whilst retaining all the great features of the original formulation, and it is now vegan too.

This smudge proof mascara is fantastic for its waterproof, flake proof and smear proof qualities. Completely coating and tubing your lashes, this mascara is super stylish – there are no fibres as bamboo has been added to give extra volume and avoid a mess with the added bonus of being anti-microbial – good for eye health. It is easily removed with plenty of water and a little bit of friction. No special makeup removers are required and it’s best not to use makeup wipes or cotton wool/pads – just water and your fingers or a flannel.

• Want to open up your eyes? Tres Chic mascara lengthens and volumises with a great curling and lifting effect with fantastic lash definition
• This waterproof mascara is made entirely in the UK. It is not tested on animals and is now completely vegan 
• The water resistant formula repels water, sweat and tears
• Sensitive eyes? This mascara is hypoallergenic and free from parabens, palm oil, bismuth, lead, mercury and phthalates. As no harsh makeup removers are required it’s great if you have sensitive skin or eyes. It’s actually best not to even use makeup wipes or cotton wool/pads – just water and your fingers or a flannel. Perfect if you like swimming or wear contact lenses
• The pigment that we use is based on an ingenious coating technology which feels unique. We offer an innovative formula based on selected raw materials which are especially suited for sensitive skin."

--Packaging--

The look of this is really sleek and modern thanks to its black and silver colour scheme. However, I would perhaps prefer the tube to be made of bamboo so as to be more in keeping with modern sensitivities regarding the biodegradability of packaging - or, at least, to have more information about whether or not this tube is recyclable.

--Application--

It's noted on the website that you can apply this product just like a normal mascara. They recommend building up layers quickly so that increased volume can be achieved before the mascara fully sets on your lashes. To avoid clumping, I usually apply one layer on the top lashes, then one layer on the bottom lashes, before going back to the top lashes and then finally repeating along the bottom - rather than repeatedly building up layers on one set of lashes before moving on.

It's also recommended that you don't use any primers or lotions before applying the mascara, as it needs a dry clean surface in order to properly set.

--Appearance--

Increased length and volume is promised and delivered. The fact of it being available in black only suits me as my lashes are already very dark - but people with much paler lashes might wish for it to be available in lighter brown shades (which hopefully will be along in the near future).

--Texture and consistency--

I mentioned earlier about avoiding clumps - but the application technique described above is something I do as a general rule, with all brands of mascara. It may not be strictly necessary with this one as the formulation is extremely smooth, making it easy to apply.

--Longevity--

This mascara definitely delivers when it comes to its waterproof qualities. I used it while swimming and even rubbed my eyes, but it didn't come off - a sheer testament to its powers and highly impressive compared to many of the flakier, heavier waterproof mascaras on the market.

--Removal--

Again, as promised, this is easy to remove when desired, according to your chosen method, or even just with slight pressure and normal water.

--Value for money--

This brand compares favourably to other high-end favourites in this price bracket, including butter LONDON and Dr Hauschka. The thought put into the ethics and quality of the product is obvious and it does exactly what it promises, performing well in the pool. Would definitely recommend.

perfect partner

Bamboo Cleansing Cloth, £5

Beauty Byte: Make Up Not War

Ever since its inception, Ellis Faas has supported renowned charity War Child via the proceeds from its makeup sales. So why not make a splash while making up this summer?

Make Up Not War is Ellis Faas' microsite, which showcases all of the good work that it is helping War Child to do (one Ellis Faas auction this month raised a cool €4k).

Its latest campaign is called Share A Kiss, which seeks to harness the power of Instagram in encouraging people to Make Up Not War. Kiss into the camera (perhaps using an Ellis Faas lipstick!), blow a kiss, or pass the kiss on however you like, using the hashtags #kisstomakeupnotwar, #MUNWChallenge, #ellisfaas and #warchild. You could even win a book showcasing Ellis Faas' work, signed especially for you!

As mentioned, you could use an Ellis Faas lipstick to participate in this challenge - perhaps their limited edition Hot Lip (which is cruelty-free and vegan) might suffice? The sale of each lipstick also enables War Child to keep one child from a war zone safe from harm for three months. Pick yours up here.

But if lipstick's not your thing, there's also the Ellis Faas t-shirt, from which the proceeds support a vulnerable child for six weeks. (Buy yours here!) Or failing that - donate direct.

There are lots of great causes out there, and this one's definitely up there in terms of being worthy of your consideration.

Big kiss!

Smashbox Photo Finish 24 Hour Shadow Primer

RRP: £19

--What does the promo say?--
"Studio-tested. Life-proven. A shadow primer that locks on more vibrant colour for a full 24 hours. No fading, creasing or smudging! Sweat and humidity resistant. Apply a thin layer to bare lids. Wait 30 seconds, then apply shadow."

--Packaging--
The silver and black packaging is sleek, and would stand out among the frequently flesh-coloured primer packages from other brands that you might see on the shelf. The squeezy tube is a convenient size and the screw-top lid is secure. The only area for improvement might be the nozzle, which could be more tapered.

--Application--
Once you have applied your face primer to clean, dry skin, squeeze out a pea-sized amount of eye primer: this will be enough to cover both eyelids and the under-eye area on both sides of the face (there is a separate under-eye primer available too, but I've never found this to be necessary. Multi-use products for the win!). Blend in until invisible.

--Appearance--
Very pale flesh-coloured cream-gel hybrid that blends in invisibly - so don't worry that this single shade available will not match your skin tone, as it has a transparent finish.

--Scent--
Nothing discernible.

--Texture and consistency--
Completely smooth without being runny or waxy, and blends brilliantly. Has the velvetiness of a cream and the lightness of a gel, so the eye area definitely doesn't feel weighed down.

--Effects on the skin--
Eyeshadow stays put without creasing or fading. Definitely stands up to the 24-hour claim and looks great in photos and videos.

--Value for money--
While the outlay may seem initially like a lot, this primer puts in an excellent performance and is one of the best I've ever tried. A little also goes a long way, so one tube lasts a long time. A great addition to any makeup bag!

perfect partners
Photo Op Eye Shadow Trio, £23
Full Exposure Mascara, £19.50  
Photo Filter Powder Foundation, £29
Photo Finish Primer Oil, £28
Photo Finish Primer Water, £28

Jane Iredale Longest Lash Mascara

RRP: £26

--What does the promo say?--
"This dual-purpose formula contains sea minerals that condition lashes so they can grow to their fullest potential, while thousands of cellulose fibers coat the lashes for a look that’s glamorous, rich and full. The Jane Iredale Longest Lash Thickening and Lengthening Mascara extra large, tapered brush makes application easy and separates lashes effortlessly. Packaged in a squeezable tube with the highest quality brush. Contains 75% more product than normal mascaras. Conditions lashes so they don’t clump, flake or break."

--Packaging--
The gold, tapered tube is beautifully elegant and really would stand out on the shelf.

--Application--
Apply a single thin coat to your lashes on one eye, before doing the same on the other eye. You can then go back and repeat the process. By alternating eyes, you end up with well-defined, well-separated lashes, rather than one thick layer of product that clumps.

--Appearance--
Delivers a deep jet-black colour that could not fail to impress. Lashes are smoothly separated for a sophisticated finish, and lashes are effectively lengthened from the very first use.

--Scent--
Surprisingly actually smells relatively commercial despite the relative lack of chemicals. Odd. Still, never mind.

--Texture and consistency--
While drier than other mascaras, I often find that many commercial mascaras are very wet when new, which can make them difficult to use as the lashes frequently stick together as a consequence. The slightly stiffer consistency created by the waxes and marine extracts means that you get a perfect result from the very first use (rather than having to open the new mascara to let some air in before shutting it in a drawer for a few months, ahem). It's also easy to remove when you want to, despite having decent staying power, meaning no panda eyes for you.

--Value for money--
At £26 it's perhaps a little on the expensive side, being of equivalent retail price to brands such as Giorgio Armani, Helena Rubinstein, By Terry, Dior, and YSL mascaras. However, it's clearly high quality and the natural ingredients it's made from are a definite bonus, with results that you just can't quibble with. Terrific stuff.

perfect partners
Bitty Brow Kit, £25
PureBrow Brow Gel, £16
PureLash Extender and Conditioner, £16
Mystikol Powdered Eyeliner/Highlighter, £13.50
Eye Pencil Crayon, £12
Eye Highlighter Pencil, £16
Liquid Eye Liner, £19.95
Eye Steppes Eye Shadow, £28
Eye Gloss Liquid Eye Shadow, £16
PurePressed Eye Shadow Duo, £25
PurePressed Triple Eye Shadow, £19
Eye Shadow Kit, £40

Vera Mona Colour Switch Duo

RRP: £18

--What does the promo say?--
"Often, makeup can become a hassle when you have to switch between lots of different colors. But not anymore! With Colour Switch Duo, any makeup artist can easily switch between colours. The duo is aptly named for two functions:

• First is the colour removal. Simply stroke the eye-shadow brush with the duo sponge to remove the current colour and quickly start using the next one.
• The second is application of wet makeup. The duo comes with a special sponge in the centre which can help apply wet makeup for a fantastic and appealing look.

All in all, this product is a blessing for any makeup artist or makeup lover."

--Packaging--
The purple and silver tin is feminine, modern and attractive. Equally, not many beauty products come in tins, so this gives the product a new and different edge. The lid comes off easily when you want it to, but closes securely when you don't. The fact that it's a tin also makes it hard-wearing, so no worries about carting it around in your handbag, as it won't break or split in the same way as plastic packaging.

--Usage--
As mentioned in the promotional materials, this is really easy to use. Rub your eyeshadow brush against the black sponge in order to 'clean' it, so that you can switch between colours. The usage of the central sponge is perhaps less obvious, but the upshot of it is that you can easily soak it so as to apply or retouch makeup on the go, to correct errors or to create a more vibrant makeup look.

--Appearance and texture--
The black outer sponge is coarse and wiry, whereas the white inner sponge for wet-look makeup is finer in texture.

--Efficacy--
I was actually amazed at how cleanly and quickly the old eyeshadow was taken off the brush so that I could change eyeshadow colour. Perfect for doing makeup on the commute!

--Value for money--
Even though refills are available, I don't think you'd need them for the outer sponge, especially as you could easily clean it yourself. Equally, if you leave the tin open so that the central sponge can dry out after use, there'd be no reason to replace this one due to bacterial growth. This is a good thing, as £18 for this product is not cheap (luckily, mine was sent to me for free by one of Vera Mona's main UK stockists, BeautyStore4U). It seems hard-wearing and is definitely useful, but I was still expecting it to cost less. Nevertheless, it would definitely make a handy gift for yourself or others - perfect for the makeup lover who already has everything.



perfect partners
Colour Switch Duo Refill, £5.95
Colour Switch Mini Refills, £4.95 for 6

ZAO Mascara

RRP: £16.95
# of shades available: 2

--What does the promo say?--
"Mascara is your secret weapon! It enhances your look for every occasion and is designed to give intense colour and volume whilst providing hydration. ZAO mascara reduces the risk of redness and irritation to your eyes. It contains high-quality raw materials Suitable for regular use and sensitive eyes. Combining traditional craftsmanship and modern design, the painted bamboo case emanates sophistication and originality. It is protected by a cotton pouch like a jewel. This beautiful presentation even makes the ZAO product range a perfect gift."

--Packaging--
ZAO aren't wrong when they emphasise their beautiful, sustainable bamboo packaging. You wouldn't even want to throw this away when you're done with it. Refillable mascara is probably not a possibility right now, but I hope their other products are refillable.

--Application--
As normal: apply one thin layer of mascara to each set of lashes. Go back round again, adding a second thin layer (as opposed to just applying one thick layer from the outset) to further define lashes. Not difficult.

--Appearance--
Regardless of the shade chosen, this provides a beautifully natural, complementary shade that will suit anyone. Lashes are separated perfectly - better than just about any high street mascara I've seen.

--Texture and consistency--
Wonderfully smooth, without being too liquid or sticky. No clumps whatsoever.

--Value for money--
I know £16.95 seems like a lot of money, even if the packaging is sustainable and elegantly crafted. However, this is basically the perfect product: its price is in line with big brands like Clinique and Laura Mercier, but contains much friendlier ingredients and gives just as good a result (and even better). Even though I was sent mine for free, I would definitely come back to this brand, as the sheer quality of this mascara augurs very well for ZAO's other products.


perfect partners
Cream Eye Shadow, £13.95
Eye Liner, £16.95
Eyebrow Pencil, £9.95

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

Laura Geller Baked Eye Rimz Shadow with Brush

 RRP: £19.50
# of shades available: 5

--What does the promo say?--
"Laura Geller Baked Eye Rimz Shadow with brush. Boasts a buildable palette that's packed with colour which when applied will reflect a multitude of shades, complete with a handy application brush. Add a splash of funky colour to your eyelids with the Eye Rimz Baked Wet/Dry Eye Accents from Laura Geller."

--Packaging--
The round pot is cheerful and classic, evoking the iconic Bourjois while still managing to be different thanks to the edgy black palette (as opposed to the Bourjois tactic of colouring the pot the same shade as the product). Mine incidentally did not come with a brush, but as this was free thanks to a QVC press day (they are the main retailer of Laura Geller products in the UK), I don't think I can complain too much.

--Application--
Use the brush or your fingers to blend the dry baked shadow outwards from the eyelash line to create instant and idiot-proof smoky eyes. Wet the brush and use this as your eyeliner. Simples - especially as when in eyeliner mode it dries instantly, meaning that you're good to go straight away.

--Appearance--
While the effect of the dry shadow is slightly one-dimensional (despite the smoky eye result), the real shimmer comes once the shadow has been wetted using the brush. The eyeliner immediately stands out while still creating a harmonised result with the rest of your eye makeup. A classic yet edgy effect.

--Longevity--
The dry shadow will crease by the end of the day; this is not 12-hour wear stuff. However, the liner (wetted shadow, if you will) lasts much better - I am sure bits of my application from this morning only came off because I rubbed my eyes due to being tired and hot.

--Value for money--
This price is comparable to online retail prices of similar makeup products by Guerlain and Shiseido, which could make one think that the Laura Geller brand is punching a bit above its weight. However, I don't think this is a bad quality product. You can create some good effects easily, and besides, the product never claims to withstand long commutes, human lapses in thought, or hot city weather. Plus, QVC often have good offers on, which increases the product's value - and, in addition, you then have a brand that's up-and-coming that not everyone else has, which is in itself of great value.

perfect partners

Laura Geller I-Care Eye Brightener Duo, £23.00

Laura Geller Baked Impressions Eyeshadow 6.5g, £24.50

Laura Geller Waterproof Eye Spackle Primer, £20.50

Laura Geller Baked Eye Elements Palette, £28

Laura Geller Eye Rimz Pencil Duo, £22

Laura Geller Wide Awake Eye Duo, £23

Laura Geller Inkwell Eyeliner Duo, £24.50

Laura Geller Eye Rimz Eye Accents with Brush, £20

Inika Mineral Eyeshadow

RRP: £14.50/1.2g
# of shades available: 24
 
--What does the promo say?--
"INIKA eyeshadows (1.2g) are rich in pigment providing vibrant and opulent colours that last all day. The purity of ingredients means that they are perfect for even the most sensitive eyes. INIKA eyeshadows are multi-purpose and can be used wet or dry as a shadow or eyeliner."

--Packaging--
The dinkiness of this pot means it can be easily slid into a purse or pocket - not just a handbag! The screwtop lid keeps everything secure, and for extra protection, there's a plastic layer inside as well, with holes so that you can just shake out the amount that you need into the lid. Hopefully this means that you shouldn't find any of the shadow in your pocket!

--Application--
The Inika website recommends using a brush, but if you should be caught short, I've found that fingers work just as well - the size of the holes and the security of the plastic lid inside the pot mean that powder doesn't just come rushing out and that you can control application easily. Blend outwards gently for idiot-proof smoky eyes; layer colours for a dazzling metallic rainbow effect; or wet the shadow for use as an eyeliner.

--Appearance--
Can be vamped up or subtly played down for the effect that you want; layering the shadow is easy and effective. The shade I had, Burnt Sienna, was given to me at a QVC press day, and would work well for any skin type (although may be less visible on darker skin tones). However, with 24 colours to select from, you're spoilt for choice and will definitely find a hue that suits you.

--Texture and consistency--
Smooth and powdery without sending dust everywhere. The texture is very manageable - easy to manipulate for blending and for application with your fingers.

--Longevity--
Definitely lasts all day as promised. Not a crease to be seen! Very impressive.

--Value for money--
I think one pot of this would last you a long time, and given that this literally stays on all day and is made with natural ingredients too, I think the shadow is worth every penny and that the price is an accurate valuation of the product. Would definitely purchase for myself and wholeheartedly recommend to others.

perfect partners
Mineral Mascara, £19
Certified Organic Eyeliner, £13.50
Certified Organic Eye Makeup Remover, £19.95 

Vichy Purete Thermale Soothing Eye Makeup Remover

RRP: £10

--What does the promo say?--

"A gentle make-up remover for sensitive eyes that removes all traces of make-up and soothes the eye contour. Enriched with ultra-gentle cleansing agents and with hydrating and soothing active ingredients, this make-up remover is kind to the most sensitive eyes: allantoin soothes, cornflower extract combats irritations of the eye and eyelid, and vitamin B5 hydrates the eye contour. Your sensitive eyes are effectively and gently cleansed and the eye contour soothed. Tested on sensitive eyes under ophthalmological control. Hypoallergenic, with soothing and fortifying Vichy Thermal Spa Water. Non-comedogenic, suitable for contact lens wearers, and paraben-free."

--Packaging--

The cobalt blue plastic bottle has a white flip top and is transparent, so you can always see exactly how much liquid you have left and which also adds to the idea of 'pureness' inherent in the product line name. The blue and white colour scheme is not overly girly and information is kept minimalist but still useful. Opens and closes easily when needed without spillage during travel.

--Application--

Pour a small amount onto a cotton pad and rub over eyes to remove eye makeup. There's no need to rinse after use.

--Appearance--

Even though the bottle makes the liquid appear blue, once out of the bottle it's obviously clear. No visible residue is left on the face.

--Scent--

Smells of cornflower, cotton and elderflower without being sugary or overpowering; is generally inoffensive.

--Texture and consistency--

Blissfully simple: there are no glittery or exfoliating particles, and as this is just essentially a micellar water, there's no stickiness or lotion-type qualities either, so there's no qualms about putting this near your eyes. 

--Effects on the skin--

This product removes eye makeup swiftly and effectively, with the possible exception of some exceptionally stubborn mascaras. It also really helps to calm the eye area, which is handy on waking, after sun exposure, after work, or just when feeling tired. However, it is useless at removing any other sort of makeup, although on the plus side it does double up as a handy toner. I don't wear contact lenses, so can't comment too much on this aspect of the product's promises, but as I experienced no irritation while using this product, I would verge more on the positive side.

--Value for money--

This is a high-quality product that does as it promises. However, it's not really 'for me': it's fine if you only ever wear eye makeup, but if I'm going to buy a makeup remover, I want it to remove all types of makeup, not just that used around the eyes. I also unfortunately didn't see its effects as a toner: while it's pleasant and refreshing to use, I had hoped that its non-comedogenic qualities would have improved my skin if I used it as a toner, but it didn't. In short, I wouldn't buy it again for myself, but would not hesitate to recommend it to others if I thought it was suitable for them.

perfect partners

3-in-1 Calming Cleansing Micellar Solution, £11

3-in-1 One-Step Cleanser, £11

Soothing Cleansing Milk, £11

Hydra Soothing Toner, £11

Hydra Perfecting Toner, £11

Waterproof Eye Makeup Remover for Sensitive Eyes, £10.50

Purifying Exfoliating Cream, £11

Cream Mousse, £11

Purifying Foaming Cream Cleanser, £11.50