Should teenage girls wear makeup?

I try to read a variety of media, and while the Times and Financial Times are mainstays, I also read the Guardian regularly, and from time to time reactivate a free trial of the Telegraph. In the latter, I recently read Annabel Jones' 'Should teenage girls wear makeup? I think it's fine - and here's why' - and I tend to agree with her.

I started playing with makeup in the pre-teen years: when I was 11 or 12.

Puberty is starting younger and younger - I started my periods a month after my twelfth birthday and developed acne at the age of 10. This is also now happening to even younger girls, due to environmental factors such as diet. So if you do have acne, it's natural that your self-confidence would feel dented - and even though I do see the argument of letting the skin get some air (and even as an adult ensure I have at least two makeup-free days a week), I also think a bit of concealer does more good than harm (especially if, like I was, you are also bullied). This is one of the first points made by the Telegraph's beauty editor also.

I would probably just go for a lighter mineral concealer, rather than the cheap stick foundations and concealers that I used to slather on, which were quite thick and cakey. ELF does good affordable ones that will cover blemishes while allowing skin to breathe.

I also used to love messing around with nail varnishes with my cousin, and would argue that such experiences are good for bonding - though this is also an argument for cheap clothes and nail polishes, as well as plenty of nail varnish remover, as chances are it will go everywhere! I didn't have a particular favourite brand, but used to go for the classics that pervade the aisles at Boots and Superdrug - Maybelline, 17, and so on. I was mainly about the colours, rather than brands, and especially all about the glitter, for which Barry M is a good choice. It also teaches you about science - namely, not to use nail varnish remover to clean up accidentally spilled nail polish from the top of a plastic TV casing...

Experimenting with eyeshadows - especially pink glittery ones - was another favourite pursuit, and as well as being just plain fun, helps you to see what colours suit you so that you can develop a sophisticated style long-term. I wouldn't be so keen on pink glittery eyeshadows now, but would go for dark purples, blues, browns, metallics or even greens to highlight my grey eyes.

This argument is even more persuasive when it comes to foundation. While young skin doesn't specifically need it, there are plenty of lighter foundations available, as well as tinted moisturisers, and even BB creams, which didn't exist when I was an adolescent but are a great option for teen skin, not just for breathability but also their other functions (such as SPF). I wouldn't recommend cheaper options in this case - even now, I'd say investing in the base is everything so as to not damage your skin. Furthermore, more expensive brands tend to have a wider range of shades available, meaning you have a greater chance of a good-looking result. It's perhaps more important and higher-stakes than you might think to get this right at a young-ish age - I went for my first job interview when I was 15, and who wants to go with a massive tide mark along the jaw line because the shade isn't right? It's a good lesson for young people too: if you want to wear makeup, then look professional. While quite a few of the cheaper high street brands have upped their game since I was trying out foundations for the first time, most still have their 'palest' shade pitched either too dark or too orange - so I would recommend trading up. Try Lily Lolo for mineral foundations that are kind to acneic skin.

Even though I started wearing makeup at a young age, I'm forever grateful to my (otherwise strict!) parents for their laissez-faire attitudes regarding this. Annabel Jones mentions in her article about picking your battles and not restricting the amount or type of makeup your teen wears - and I tend to agree, as doing the opposite would only breed resentment. It's something your teen has to work out for themselves - and, as I have mentioned above, in their own time (and plenty of it).

As she also mentions, good skincare routines and products are vital too. Steer clear of the cheap and artificial as far as possible - brands like Lush, Zao, Couleur Caramel, and Lamazuna are environmentally friendly too. Conversely, don't be afraid to seek prescription products if really needed for teen skin conditions.

Annabel Jones' most important comment though, is that makeup is about enhancing - not disguising - who you really are. And that, for teenage girls who may be feeling more insecure by the day, is crucial.

Rimmel Match Perfection Concealer

 RRP: £5.99
# of available shades: 3

--What does the promo say?--
"Skin tone adapting concealer. Conceal signs of fatigue. Highlight and illuminate eye area. Soft precision brush for the delicate under-eye area."

--Packaging--
A slender tube that really pops out on the shelf thanks to its summery blue and beige (sea and sand!) colour scheme. The application brush is also a helpful addition that mirrors higher-end brands, such as Yves St Laurent.

--Application--
Gently squeeze the tube until the product appears at the end of the application brush. Brush the product onto the skin, and then blend in with the tips of your fingers.

--Appearance--
Simultaneously matte, radiant, and providing excellent coverage. The ivory shade was also perfect for my skin tone (even though I think it's pathetic to only supply three shades). WIN.

--Texture and consistency--
Smooth and blendable. 

--Longevity--
Lasts well even without face powder to finish off.

--Value for money--
The retail price is already extremely reasonable and if you shop around the discount stores it can even be found cheaper. While an availability of three shades is arguably insufficient, if you can find one to suit you it is a great deal, thanks to the product's longevity, blendability, coverage and radiance. Proves that cheap can definitely be cheerful! Would doubtlessly repurchase.

perfect partners
Match Perfection Foundation, £6.99
Match Perfection Bronzer, £5.99
Match Perfection Compact Powder, £7.49
Stay Blushed!, £4.49
Stay Matte Primer, £5.99

Hauling Your Makeup Hoard on Holiday

Whether your summer plans include hitting the beach, showing up in the hottest clubs in town, or just hoping to impress the buff bloke you saw at the gym, everyone’s hoping to look their best during the summer months. The sun is out, and everyone’s ready to have some fun after a long winter. Of course you don't want to look or feel dull or drab - and everyone knows how important it is to have a choice of colours in order to achieve this. It's natural, then, to want to take your complete makeup collection with you on a break, especially if you're going away for more than two weeks - because even though you’ve never worn that exact shade of pink lipstick, it might actually go perfectly with your new bikini.
But just how are you going to haul all of those essential items by plane, train or car? You could choose a soft, cushioned makeup case. However, while it is cushioned, it has no divided compartments, which means your makeup will probably get jumbled together. You could choose a tie and roll case. Though this option could possibly be easy to throw into your suitcase, it doesn’t allow you to take much along with you. And, if you're like me, you’ve got lots of makeup! You could potentially go with the age-old ‘throw it into a plastic baggy’ route; however, we all know that your favourite products are just very likely to get broken or lost this way.
What you need is not just any makeup case. Those at The LA Shop or The Salon Outlet are ideally designed for long trips. Their train cases are actually fold up boxes with separate compartments for your different makeup items. You have a large section in the bottom for bulky bottles and tubes and smaller trays close to the top for lipsticks, eye shadows and also other small items. Durable and affordable, they're the perfect way to travel in style. Now you're ready :)

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

Slapping it on

What do you use to put on your makeup? Sponges? A roll of brushes, makeup artist-style? Or just your fingers?

All of these methods have their advantages and disadvantages. People don't always like to get messy by using their fingers and some fear that sponges and brushes harbour too much bacteria. However, fingers and brushes can be easily cleaned, sponges can be cheaply replaced, and all provide good coverage, while brushes have the added bonus of providing extra precision (especially around smaller areas where more detail is required, such as around the eyes and lips).

But when it comes to brushes it can be difficult to know where to start. Virtually all makeup brands sell their own, and pharmacies, supermarkets, and other beauty retailers usually manufacture their own brands as well. So how can we mere laymen know what to go for?

People aren't wrong to fantasize about the makeup brushes of makeup artists, such as those by MAC, Daniel Sandler, Jemma Kidd, Kervyn Aucoin, Sue Devitt, Laura Mercier, Paula Dorf, RMK, and Suqqu. They're made with high-quality materials and can be kept and used for years with proper cleaning. However, with all of the brushes listed above costing at least £10 each, it can become a costly endeavour.

I've personally had great success with brushes from ELF (Eyes Lips Face), which are affordable yet durable. But now there's a new player on the market thanks to some great foundation brushes from Mii that I've found: even though its cheapest brush is still £14.95, the website runs special offers regularly, meaning that you could still grab a bargain if you keep your eyes open. The brushes are especially adapted for mineral makeup (which Mii also sells) and the bristles are beautifully shaped for ultimate definition. This wide range of high quality makeup brushes offers something for everyone meaning that you should without doubt find something to suit your needs - and even if you don't manage to find a bargain before Christmas, you can always put a request for some in your letter to Santa (or better yet, on your shopping list for the January sales). That way, you can be sure to start 2014 by slapping it on in style.

Secrets of summer beauty

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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!

Cosmetics Contemplations: Summertime, and the living ain't easy

As the days get lighter and the nights get shorter, we're reminded that summer is almost upon us. Not that you'd know it from the snow/wind/rain/general coldness we've been having, but I know deep down that before I can say "school's out for summer" the IGCSE and IB exams will be underway and I'll be trying to teach and control my sweat patches at the same time, while simultaneously wondering just how to stop my makeup sliding off my face and my students skipping school.

The truth is that I really don't like summer, which is basically like saying you don't like dolphins or Crunchies or teddy bears (thanks, Marian Keyes, for that analogy). I prefer winter fashions and winter food. I don't like being hot, or being woken up by birdsong at 5.00 in the morning when I know my alarm is not due to go off for another hour and a half. And, as mentioned, summer brings its own specific set of beauty bugbears, such as the ongoing attempt to keep excess body hair at bay. 

So since being a hermit for the summer months is not an option, how can we limit feeling and looking like hot sticky messes, knowing that we'll never look like those girls in catalogues who frolic flawlessly on beautiful beaches while sporting the latest fashions? Here's a few of my tips now, so that you can start investing before it gets too hot:

1. Get yourself a decent deodorant. Mitchum, plus those 48-hour ones, are generally reliable. Hit the pound shops for savings, or wait until other retailers have their own deals on.
2. Go for sleeveless tops. This will help to keep sweat patches to a minimum. If you must cover up later (to protect you from the sun, or to keep warm in the evening), go for a shawl, or for a shirt made from a sheer fabric so that sweat patches will be less visible or avoided completely.
3. Go for long-lasting makeup so that you can go all day without touching up, whether you're at a pool party, the beach, or work (ew). Especially recommended are 17 Tattoo Me liquid eyeliner, Benefit's Stay Don't Stray primer, and Clinique's BB cream.
4. Set with bronzer. Helps with making your makeup last longer, and can be used all over your body to give a sun-kissed glow from day one. I like Agnes B's offerings, but other more experienced bronzer aficionados will undoubtedly be able to offer more suggestions that are more readily available.
5. Buff your body. Exfoliators will get rid of impurities, such as sweat, that may be sitting on the top layer of the skin just waiting to clog pores. Plus, it creates a smoother base for makeup and body lotions, prevents ingrown hairs, and makes waxing less painful. Those by Purity Organic and Lush are good value.
6. Moisturise. This not only (like exfoliating) helps to create a smoother surface for makeup to cling to and improves conditions for waxing, but also helps prevent sun damage - especially if you choose a moisturiser containing a sun protection factor. Try products by Neutrogena and Oxy for face, and products by Jergens and Astral for body.
7. Avoid heat styling. Hairdryers and straighteners are bad enough for your hair as it is, but the sun, sea and chlorine in the summer could make your hair even worse. So lay off the heat styling tools, and either towel dry your hair or leave it to dry naturally after washing. If you really can't resist, make sure you use heat defense sprays to offset some of the damage.
8. Go to the salon for a wax. While shaving is cheap and painless, and bleach can hide darker hair growth, these methods require repeated use, sometimes daily. Even though waxing means you might have to grit your teeth, it's worth it to know that you'll get through your beach holiday without the fuzz creeping up on you before you've had time to blink.
9. Get down to the gym, or out to your local park for a run, or to your nearest pool for a swim. There's a chance you'll look better by the summer if you do (at best) - and at worst, you'll feel better and will have used your time productively.
10. Protect your eyes. Use sunglasses, even if you're just on your way to work. You only get one set of eyes and squinting is never a good look. If you wear glasses regularly anyway, and like me you can't stand contacts, invest in a prescription pair.
11. Get a pedicure - feet are the hardest body parts to keep looking lovely. They're also better value than a manicure, as we do less with our feet and so the polish tends to stay on the nails longer. Better yet, to save cash, have a friend or family member do yours, and then return the favour!
12. Use sunscreen - sunburn is not a good look and skin cancer won't be either in years to come. My faves are lotions by Piz Buin and Vichy; shop online for the best deals.

Celebrity 'steppers' go crazy during Fairtrade Fortnight

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Viral video by ebuzzing

It can be hard at times to truly stick to the Fairtrade philosophy all the time; no matter how smug you feel when you buy something off People Tree, there's always going to be that time when you can't resist that bargain lipstick from Maybelline. Celebrities are going to even greater lengths this Fairtrade Fortnight (27 February to 11 March 2012) to raise awareness, with luminaries including Louisa Lytton, Alistair McGowan and Simon Webb all starring in Youtube videos to encourage others to take steps to go Fairtrade.

Through the ‘Take A Step for Fairtrade’ campaign, the Fairtrade Foundation wants to see more individuals and businesses buying and selling Fairtrade products in the UK, The public are being asked to think about what they can do every day, every week or every month throughout 2012 and take a step to make a difference to the lives of farmers in the developing world who produce the products they buy.

With Fairtrade every step counts. In celebration of International Women's Day (March 8th), for example, L'Occitane have released a fund-raising, Fairtrade soap as part of a development partnership with a factory in Burkina Faso. The factory has been run entirely by women since 2010 and supports their emancipation - and for just $8 (or £5, or €4.50, depending on where you live!) the shea butter soap can help you feel good, smell good, and help others at the same time.

The more people that support Fairtrade, the more farmers and workers will be able to improve their lives through the better terms of trade it offers. And there's really no excuse on the beauty front: you can buy Fairtrade makeup from sites such as Big Green Smile, Fairtrade clothes from high street retailers such as Oxfam, and Fairtrade jewellery and accessories from sites such as Traidcraft. We all talk the talk, but how many of us actually walk the walk? I know I don't always.

The Fairtrade Foundation encourages everyone to start their journey at www.fairtrade.org.uk/step, and to check out the rest of the mini-series on the Fairtrade YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/user/Fairtradefoundation. You won't regret it!

Spend Vouchers, Get Beauty Rewards!

Sponsored Post

Tesco is probably the UK's most popular supermarket, or at least the country's most talked-about. Whether you find their Florence and Fred range is to die for, love their Tesco Finest cheese crackers, or just enjoy spending your Clubcard points, it certainly has something for everyone. 

While there are Clubcard rewards for just about everything from dining out one evening to a few weeks away on holiday, even beginning beauty fanatics can benefit from the scheme. By collecting points on almost everything you can buy in store or online from Tesco (as well as by spending on your Clubcard credit card), you can convert 150 points for Clubcard vouchers worth £1.50, which are sent out to you automatically and can be spent on all kinds of treats, including major beauty brands stocked by Tesco, such as Barbara Daly and All For Eve.

Furthermore, Clubcard vouchers can be exchanged for even more extravagant Clubcard rewards for die-hard cosmetics aficionados - including special limited edition Clubcard Deals, such as the offer for Brandalley gift tokens that's available at present (if you order by March 19th, you can exchange £10-£20 of Clubcard vouchers for double their value in Brandalley tokens). Tokens are also available on a more permanent basis for beauty-based retailers such as sk:n (the UK's #1 skin clinic), ManKind.co.uk (for beauty and skincare gifts the man in your life will love) and FloatWorks (for flotation experiences in a spa environment). So whether you want to pimp up your lipstick collection, encourage your bloke to start taking care of his skin, or just get a break from the kids, you can be sure you'll find something to suit.

Getting a Tesco clubcard also couldn't be easier: you just have to go to the Clubcard section of Tesco's website and fill out the online form. The BeautyExpert tokens really stand out for me (sadly, Florence and Fred don't currently have a makeup range of their own!), and I'm sure there's something there that you'll love too. You can soon be saving on food shopping, fashion accessories, flotation treatments and foundation in no time at all.

GlossyBox

 RRP: £10 a month

--What does the promo say?--

"Stay up to date with current trends and discover new niche brands. Every month, GLOSSYBOX delivers a mix of 5 exciting product miniatures packed in a beautiful box for you to test at home. Our product selection is original and innovative. You can try them out in the comfort of your own home and in your own time without any pressure from sales associates."

--Packaging--

When Glossybox offered to kindly send me a free Glossybox, I was in no universe expecting it to be so beautifully packaged. The pale pink and black box is sturdy and pretty, filled with luxurious ribbon and tissue paper in coordinating colours, and comes with full product information too (also printed up in their black and pink colour scheme). Definitely has the wow factor as well as being practical; for the packaging alone, a Glossybox subscription would make a great gift. Swift and secure dispatch also ensure it arrives promptly and undamaged.

--Contains--

As mentioned, you get five product samples (not including multiples; I think including multiples I had 6 or 7 individual pots, vials or sachets). I was intrigued to find out whether these would be full size products, or no more than the teeny sample sizes you get at any posh beauty counter. As it turns out, it's a mixture of the two.

--Concept--

It takes the same view as a magazine or mobile phone subscription: you pay £10 a month to receive an ongoing service. Unlike a magazine or mobile phone subscription, though, the Glossybox can be easily personalised: on the Glossybox website, you can fill out beauty profiles so that you're sent things that fit your beauty and styling requirements. In addition, there is a loyalty scheme on the website which enables you to pick up 500 GlossyDots for every friend you recommend, and 20 GlossyDots for every product from the box that you review on the site. Once you attain 1000 GlossyDots, your next box is free. This all encourages active use and consumer loyalty. Buying products you have enjoyed using is also enabled through the site, and cancelling subscriptions seems to be easy based on the website description of the process. The only feature I would add to the concept would be some sort of forum or service enabling GlossyBox users to interact as an integral part of the site: while there is a blog (and doubtless various Facebook and Twitter accounts), the site community would be strengthened further if its users could communicate with each other more easily.

--Product satisfaction--

With GlossyBox promising high-end and niche products alike, I was certainly not disappointed with the selection I received in the September box. I used one of the two generously-sized Dead Sea Spa Magik Salt Brushing sachets on a weekend away in the Loire valley, which rejuvenated and energised as well as fitting in with the luxury setting of my weekend. At £12 for 500ml as advertised on the site (offers exclusive to the site/to GlossyBox subscribers could perhaps be another way forward, allowing companies to shift more of their products and keep GlossyBox users loyal?), I would definitely buy. The HD Brows set is sophisticated and technical, and the Moa green balm is a serious contender to Liz Earle's Superbalm thanks to its multitasking moisturising rescue properties for your whole body. The Neal and Wolf Glow Super Shine Spray is also sure to add a touch of glamour and confidence to any girl's hair. The sample of Plum perfume, by Mary Greenwell, was the only thing I was disappointed with - not for its scent, but the sample size was nothing special and no different to what you get as a freebie if shopping in a department store. However, the box definitely gave me the chance to try products I'd had earmarked for a while (the Moa green balm had been pinned to my fridge in the form of a magazine cutout for months) as well as to discover products I didn't know to exist.

--Value for money--

While for some people £10 seems a lot for something unnecessary, people across the world spend this sort of money routinely on things like state-of-the-art mobile phones. However, the statements made by the company are valid: this is a good way to try a lot of new, different beauty products at once without wasting your money on full size packs. I have also heard GlossyBox lovers justifying the purchase with reasons such as them not drinking or smoking, and so that this is their affordable monthly luxury. And I don't blame them - the brand easily fulfils its brief of delivering a slice of daily sophistication to users' doors, and I have already recommended it to my husband as a gift for a family member this Christmas. Top service.

Royal Wedding makeup

Having only just come down off Planet Wedding after getting married myself on April 29th, it's got me thinking about not only my own look, but also Kate Middleton's, who of course was married on the same day (although I still pipped her to the post by a couple of hours).

(I'm on the left, chief bridesmaid on the right!)

Base: No7 Shine-Free Makeup Base, Sonia Kashuk Hidden Agenda Concealer Set, Lancôme Teint Idole Foundation, Arbonne Sheer Pressed Powder, Lancôme Blush Subtil

Lips: Guerlain KissKiss Lipstick , Lancôme Color Fever Gloss in 385 Lavande Ballerine

Eyes: Benefit Lemon Aid Corrector Eyelid Primer, MAC Pigment in Naked, Jerome Alexander Magic Minerals Lash Extending Mascara, Bobbi Brown Gel Eyeliner

Nails: American gel nails put on by Blush salon, St Germain en Laye

Perfume: Hugo Boss Femme

All great for coverage, long-lastingness, and radiance.

I think that Kate Middleton and I had the same aims in mind for our wedding makeup - a natural look that would stay in place no matter what. We also both did our own makeup (although she had training from makeup artist Arabella Preston, while nobody's ever shown me what to do). It's not known exactly what she had put on her face, but it's rumoured that high-performance mascara by Revitalash is an official Royal favourite. It costs about £16, so is not out of reach for everyday princesses the world over.

Essie Allure

There have also been whispers on the wind of Lancôme's Hypnôse and Bobbi Brown makeup being royal faves - so it looks like I'm in good company having also used these brands myself on my own special day.


For her nails, manicurist Marina Sandoval blended Essie's "Allure" and Bourjois' "Rose Lounge" for a feminine feel, while I went for gel nails, which you'd need a chisel to break through.

So would I recommend doing your own wedding makeup? In short, yes. While it would have been one less thing for me to do on the morning of my wedding, I know I felt more confident in my own hands than in someone else's - someone else who doesn't know me or how me or my now-husband like me to look. I suspect the now-Duchess of Cambridge felt the same way. The main criticism I've heard of the new Royal's look states that the eye makeup was too heavy and "evening-y", which certainly appears to be the case close up, but from far away looks just fine. When you consider the number of people and cameras watching her, this is stage makeup on the grandest possible scale, so the demands will be different. I equally feel that I met the standard required for my event.

Barbie Loves Stila Paint Pot

RRP: $40, €35

# of variants: 4 (1959, 1971, 1980, 2000)

contains: essentially what you get in every pot is a three-shadow eye palette, a lip product, and an eye product, with the lip and eye products being from Stila's usual catalogue and with the eye palette being an exclusive.

(shown left-right, top-bottom: 2000, 1980, 1959, 1971)

--What does the promo say?--
"In this collection created to celebrate Barbie's 50th birthday, each paint can features the look of an iconic Barbie doll from the past five decades, and inside each can is everything you need to get that beautiful Barbie doll's signature look. The Barbie Loves Stila paint can also includes a "Barbie Look Book" that includes a history of each top-selling Barbie doll over the last five decades."

--Packaging--
The pink paint can is a little difficult to open, but is enticingly decorated, with a picture of the relevant Barbie for the year concerned (you can have a Dita von Teese style for 1959, a Malibu Barbie pot for 1971, a pot for Halle Berry style complexions for 1980 [think it's the big hair that does it for the decade] or a more modern Barbie for the year 2000). The lip product and eye product in the pot (from hence I refer to the 1971/Malibu Barbie pot) are of Stila's usual packaging standards, with the lip gloss being operated by a plastic twist-syringe style mechanism (see-through so that you can see how much you've used) and the mascara being in a chic silvery tube. My one complaint was with the eye palette box. While nicely designed with a Barbie picture and magnetic closure, I was horrified to discover (when I tipped the open box upside down to see the product information on the back) that the pan shadows are not glued or stuck down in any way. This meant that two of my shadows sustained slight damage when they fell out of the box. Great. Poor showing really - even EyesLipsFace, a much cheaper brand, sticks its shadows inside its palettes.
Lamentably, my pot also did not come with a Look Book, though perhaps it's just the American ones that do.

--Application--
Nothing tricky about this. Apply the mascara and lip gloss as usual. The lip gloss doesn't take long at all to appear at the end of the pen, even on the first use - just twist and go. Helpfully, the bronzer that comes with the two shadows can also double up as a liner or even as an eyeshadow itself if used carefully.

--Appearance--
The 1971 and 2000 pots are likely to be the ones that suit most complexions, with the 1959 and 1980 pots being slightly more niche. The blue eyeshadow in the 1971 pot is a bit daring, but is fine when used sparingly, and the nude shadow is great for any occasion. The mascara is wonderful - highest quality mascara that I've used in ages. The lipgloss is very subtle and will suit just about anyone.

--Texture/consistency--
The lip gloss is slightly sticky, but not too bad. The mascara is completely clump-free and the eyeshadows only crease minimally, if at all.

--Scent--
The lip gloss smells and tastes like bubble gum, which I was initially taken aback by, but I know that I would always rather have this than a lip gloss that tastes and smells like soap (cheers, Clarins...).

--Longevity--
The eyeshadows put in a fairly good performance, though they're not always completely crease-free. The mascara holds almost too well, with it being difficult to remove; by contrast, the lip gloss does not stand up brilliantly, with reapplication definitely being needed after eating.

--Value for money--
I admit to being slightly foxed by this. When I bought mine, it was in the sale, so I got it for €5 (bargain!). The original price label said €14, so I was surprised to log onto the French Sephora website and find it retailing for €35. Part of me thinks that I wouldn't pay the full RRP for it, but when you add up the normal retail prices of the original items, it soon surpasses the price of this kit (the lip glaze alone is €19, with the mascara coming in at €12, and with the Stila mono shadows costing €14 and quads costing €32). It therefore seems that you do get rather good value after all, and given that this is coming out in the UK (I don't know when, but I know it is), I'm guessing it will retail at about £20-£25, which seems reasonable enough. I do wish, though, that they would stick those damn eyeshadows into the palette. Come on, Stila. You know it makes sense.

perfect partner
Barbie Loves Stila Talking Palette, $40

at the beauty counter

Took some time out from my food shopping the other day to check out some of the newest products to hit the makeup counter, and got a few surprises along the way. You'll be pleased to hear, perhaps, that this was IN the supermarket, so credit-crunch-busting prices and brands abound. Your credit card can stop screaming for the moment.

First up, I went to have a looksee at Revlon's Beyond Natural Skin Matching Makeup. An imitator of Avon's Personal Match Barely There Makeup, it's a tinted moisturiser that starts out white, then adapts cleverly to your skin tone. Sadly for them, Avon's version is just that bit cleverer. Both contain an SPF, but even though Avon only offers three shades (light-medium-dark), while Revlon offers five, Revlon have got the colour so very wrong (at the lighter end of the spectrum at least). I smoothed some of the 'light' shade onto my hand, and it was far too dark - it reminded me of the muddy look Nivea's tinted moisturiser gave me when I tried it last summer. Bad batch? Possible, but unlikely (this is rare). I'd therefore advise the pale and interesting among you to stay away from Revlon's attempt at this product until they've got it right and go for Avon's instead (which at £7 is £2 cheaper than Revlon's too).

I then moved on to Maybelline's counter to see what all the fuss surrounding the new Dream Satin foundation was about. Ladies, it's all true - it blends seamlessly, the colours are great, and it moisturises beautifully too. Reminded me a little of the new DiorSkin Nude range, which is great for the old bank balance. However, I was shocked at the contrast between Dream Satin and another Maybelline foundation, Wonder Finish - it was really incredibly runny and was just in a completely different league in terms of quality. Always try before you buy, and don't necessarily rely on how other foundations from the same brand have worked in the past (I also took a look at Maybelline's new Liquid Mineral foundation, but seeing that the list of ingredients was as long as my arm AND contained parabens, I was less than impressed). However, in perhaps better news, I've also heard that across the pond Maybelline has recently added to the arsenal of vibrating mascaras. Can't wait for it to come out here and see how it compares to its more famous competitors.

In terms of other new mascaras, the one I've found most exciting to date also comes from the high street in the form of L'Oreal's new Telescopic Explosion mascara. Imitating Givenchy's Phenomen'Eyes with its spiky-balled brush, it should be a hell of a lot more affordable than the £17 Givenchy asks for theirs. Also on the L'Oreal front, they have their new Studio Secrets range, which consists largely of primers but also features eye and lip colours as well as a foundation with a built-in brush. While this all sounded very exciting at the first listen, close up it seems that it's nothing that you can't get from other brands. What is fairly attractive, however, is their new range of Shine Gelée Lipsticks, which takes advantage of their recent Royal Jelly technology (as seen in their Royal Jelly shampoo). The lipstick comes in 5 shades, is ridiculously cheap at £6, and to me really seems to provide a cross between a lipstick and a gloss, providing the cohesive colour of the former and the shine and moisture of the latter. Top.

Finally, there is of course the classic straight-from-the-salon French beauty brand, Jean-Claude Biguine. It's common here for high-end hair salons to also sell their own line of makeup, and Biguine's is good (I own one of the pressed powders - luminosity galore!) - as well as being fairly and affordably priced, it's also environmentally friendly, allowing you to buy refills for your products as well as buying them new. Very few brands seem to do this - EyesLipsFace (ELF) does, as do Elysambre (another French brand) and Bobbi Brown, but examples are generally few and far between. Jean-Claude Biguine products are generally on sale in supermarkets and at selected branches of Monoprix as well as in the Biguine salons, and it's already available in most of mainland Europe as well as in the US, Japan & Canada. Perhaps one day they will hit Britain too :)

Cosmetics Contemplations: The Purpose of Makeup

Women have long used makeup as a form of decoration, with the use of it documented as far back as ancient times with the Greeks, Romans and Egyptians. It is possible that it also had a practical use in these hot climates, to protect the lips and hair from sun damage, and eye makeup was also believed to have the mythical quality of being able to ward off evil spirits. The original multi-use product, perhaps?! In any case, we have a distinction between something designed to alter your appearance (e.g. eyeshadow) and something designed to care for it (e.g. lip balm). But what of the stuff's origins? What was it originally used for?


It is well documented that some ancient makeup contained noxious substances, such as lead and mercury. However, cosmetics (using the term loosely) also had practical properties: perfumes and incense were used medicinally, as well as religiously for activities such as meditation (incense is still used today in High Church services). In China the colours used could represent social class, and this was also true of European women in the Renaissance (even today, the idea of skin lightening is still popular in China for sociological reasons). But how much relevance does this have today? These explanations for the usage of makeup and cosmetics are perhaps only marginal, with the main reason that people wear makeup being solely to look pretty.

And it is this idea of enhancing or altering one's appearance that leads back to the original question: what is the purpose of makeup, and what does 'looking pretty' actually mean? Is the purpose of makeup to maintain as natural a look as possible, or to make a bold statement? The early rise of makeup was highly influenced by film and theatre stars, who would have worn bold makeup in order to show their faces better on screen or in a large arena (where the Ancient Greek actors of the amphitheatres would have used masks), but this was more to exaggerate their natural features than to create a falsified image. Certainly makeup in the 1920s seemed to emphasise the enhancement of women's natural features, with metal mouth shapers being available alongside lipstick in order for women to best accentuate their lips, and with natural lip glosses also being very popular. Skin tone continued to serve as an indicator of social class, whether conscious or subconscious, when people viewed Coco Chanel's tanned skin as something to aspire to.

Certainly getting the right skin tone is very important for something to look natural; we have all sniggered, or at least looked strangely at, someone whose fake tan has gone wrong, someone who has chosen a disastrous shade of foundation for their skin, and followers of the gothic trend who insist on painting their faces in precisely the shade of death. However, while the former cases are clearly mistakes, one suspects that in the latter case, looking natural is not the aim anyway. But why? Is looking unnatural intended to scare, shock, turn heads, look 'individual', look like part of a pack, or something else? The goths certainly aren't the first to do it - the Elizabethans dyed their faces with white lead for social reasons, and don't even get me started on the punk and glam rock trends of the 1970s.
You can today buy makeup in just about every colour imaginable. This is clearly a successful strategy from the makeup companies: if nobody bought it, they wouldn't be able to continue selling it. L'Oreal's personalisation strategy has done extremely well in recent years, allowing makeup aficionados to select the right eye and lip colours for their skin tone, hair colour and eye colour. And yet alongside this we have glittery eyeliners, mascaras that come in blue and purple as well as black and brown, and colour-changing lipsticks (which also come in an almost infinite array of colours to begin with). So what makes us turn (whether from time to time, or always) away from a more sophisticated look of mere enhancement, designed to perfectly blend with the tones and colours our bodies have been given, to something clearly designed to alter our appearance altogether? Why do I own purple and green lip glosses alongside my natural-coloured lipsticks, and glittery eyeshadows alongside subtler and more matte colours?

I have already mentioned the desire for individuality, and this dazzling array of colours allows anyone to experiment and turn their own body into a work of art. It perhaps also springs from a general human desire for fun and variety, as well as, of course, the vicissitudes and fluctuations present in people's personalities - people don't always want to look the same every day, and just as people want to be able to have fun choosing different clothes and shoes, they want to be able to choose different makeup. Why not set off a purple dress with a purple lip gloss? Why not indeed. Certainly both of these trends (enhancement vs. alteration) are reflected frequently on the catwalk, indicating that everyone is simply following their own whims and needs. Environment is also to be considered; you might not wear Amy Winehouse-style eyeliner to work (depending, of course, what your job is), but cast aside such hesitations when preparing for a night out with friends.

It becomes clear, then, that makeup's principal purpose is to decorate, with care for your body (with products such as sunscreen) being secondary to this. And with decoration comes some sort of targeted choice, whereby the wearer wants to convey a certain impression, whether they are going for a job interview or attending a party. As we have seen from the goths and punks, this doesn't even necessarily mean matching your skin tone to what you've been given, though in most circumstances it may be advisable to do so. Makeup can be messy, fussy, time-consuming and expensive, but it allows people to express themselves, whether this is through a nude lipstick or a kohled-up eyelid, and this is a freedom that people value very highly.

Molton Brown GentleCleanse Eye Makeup Remover

RRP: $18 for 100ml
available at: Molton Brown stores; www.beautyrose.com

--What does the promo say?--
"This light, plant-based formula gently and effectively removes all traces of make-up (including waterproof mascara) from the sensitive eye area. Birch tree extracts and apple pip amino acids deep cleanse the skin and lashes, leaving the area calm and conditioned."

--Packaging--
In Molton Brown's usual style: a respectable, vintage-style pharmacy bottle with a logo in copperplate capitals and a chunky silver-effect lid. The bottle is promising and well-rounded in transparent plastic. However, the open top once you've taken off the lid can lead to wastage and leads to worries about travel.

--Application--
"Apply fluid to cotton pad; place over the closed eye area and leave for a few seconds before sweeping in an outward motion to remove makeup", advises the box. However, there are a few problems with this: firstly, as mentioned, the open top can lead to problems (there is no protective plastic disc with a hole in it), and secondly, the slightly oily nature of the product means that it sinks into the cotton pad too much, and that it therefore won't transfer from the cotton pad to the skin well. You are better off using your bare hands, or using a flannel or muslin cloth. It is also important to shake the product well before using as the liquid separates when left to stand.

--Appearance--
The liquid is mostly clear, with a white residue that rises to the surface when left to stand. When shaken up, white bubbles appear in the liquid. On the face, no visible residue is left.

--Scent--
None.

--Texture/consistency--
Slightly oily, but not prohibitively so. Mostly just like water.

--How does your skin feel afterwards?--
Soft and well-cared for, particularly around the eye area. There is also no stinging or unpleasant sensations at all when removing eye makeup, or in the aftermath of doing so, meaning this would be excellent for sensitive skin.

--Does it do what it says it will?--
It removes eye makeup very well, and definitely calms and conditions the eye area, meaning Molton Brown have basically fulfilled their brief. However, it is not really good for removing heavier makeup (namely foundation etc) and contrary to advice given to me by Molton Brown staff, I have not found that it works tremendously well as a general cleanser (my skin condition may have even worsened during the use of this product).

--Value for money--
It's not a bad price, and it gets even better if you buy in a pack (I bought mine for £30 in the same pack as a toner and moisturiser). It works extremely well as an eye makeup remover, and if you have especially sensitive skin you should probably get this. However, if you're looking for a cleanser and makeup remover in one, you should try something else, and I for one will be glad when mine runs out so that I can move on to better things.

perfect partners
Skinbalance Toning Lotion, $32 for 200ml
Active Defence City Day Hydrator, $50 for 40ml

L'Oreal Paris True Match Powder

RRP: £6.99
Shades available: 5

--Packaging--
A circular plastic container with a silver and clear colour scheme, with two sections - the top one contains the powder, the bottom one contains a mirror and a circular sponge.

--What does the promo say?--
"This ultra-soft, light-textured powder perfectly matches the colour and texture of your skin for a flawless finish. The micro-fine formula lets you apply a translucent layer or build up more intense coverage to even your skin tone and cover imperfections flawlessly. It blends in so perfectly it is almost as if you are wearing no makeup."

--Application--
Pretty easy - just click open the bottom section of the container, take out the sponge, and then click open the top section. Swirl the sponge over the pressed powder and apply to your face, keeping the bottom section open so that you can use the mirror. Nothing complicated about that.

--Texture--
Smooth and fine without being brittle.

--Scent--
No noticeable scent.

--Appearance--
On the face, the powder doesn't sit on the skin and blends in well with your skin tone and any other makeup you may be wearing.

--How does it feel on the skin?--
Light and soft.

--Coverage--
Excellent, though I wouldn't use it alone - I'd always use it over concealer and foundation, but that perhaps says more about my skin than about the product itself.

--Longevity--
The powder doesn't need reapplication throughout the day and stays in place once applied.

--Removal--
Easy to remove.

--Does it do what it says it's going to?--
Amazingly, yes. I always doubt these products that promise a 'flawless finish', but this one does a pretty damn good job.

--Value for money--
Excellent, considering that the powder doesn't need applying throughout the day, meaning one container lasts a long time even if you wear makeup every day. The price is right too :)