Kulpreet Kaur – Makeupandbeauty.com

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Estee Lauder – Lucidity – Transparent Loose Powder

After my Bobbi Brown love saga, I initiate a new series – my love for the parent Company’s line. Estee Lauder. This was no love at first sight….or even second. This was making peace with what ever was being offered and a last minute impulse buy which resulted in absolute infatuation!!! OK! Ok! Let me explain.

I was new to makeup and wanted to try a loose powder. So on a trip to Thailand, I thought I would pick up Make Up For Ever HD – however, MUFE wasn’t available in Thailand. So I went to the Central World (a huge mall with its own department store) to pick my second choice on the list – Clinique. But they did not have the product I wanted. Ok…..what now? I thought, lets try a brand I would not get in India – enter Shu Umera! The SA extolled the product to the sky. I reconfirmed if it would help my oily skin stay/look matte! YES!! Came the reponse. I was about to head to the cashier when something stopped me. By this time, I had become an avid beauty blog reader. So I decided to come to my room and read reviews before I bought it…..NOT SUITABLE FOR OILY SKIN!!!!

Don’t you just hate it when SA’s of upmarket brands lie to you!!! Isnt good service part of what you are paying for? I thought I’d check for Clinique at Duty Free. Unfortunately, they too were out of stock for what I had shortlisted. So, in my deperation to pick a loose powder….I went for the brand closest to where I was standing (Yeah! Seriously!). Estee Lauder!

So, I review today their revamped product Lucidity – Loose powder. The product has been in existence for years, however, the packaging has recently gone through a ew avataar. I use Intensity 1.0 – as suggested by the SA. I do feel that Intensity 2.0 would also work ok on my NC30-35 skin tone.

About Estee Lauder Lucidity – Transparent Loose Powder:

This loose powder gives skin a luminous finish that minimizes the look of lines and wrinkles.
Special ingredients diffuse light as it hits your skin, creating a “soft-focus” effect that visibly smooths the appearance of your skin.

Powder Points,Flawless coverage,Luminous finish.Comes with a luxurious puff.Loose Powder for a Flawless LookLoose powder is ideal for the sheerest, most natural finish, especially when applying your makeup at home.To use loose powder, tap the puff or a powder brush into the powder, then gently blow or tap off any excess. Pat or sweep lightly over face.

Price:

$33.00 for 21gms

I bought for about INR 2500 (post conversion from Thai Baht) – in February 2013. The price in India around that time was about INR 2300. It is currently priced at INR 2700.

Packaging:

It comes in a HUGE plastic tub with a screw open lid. The box comes packaged in Estee Lauder’s usual blue cardboard box with gold lettering (so difficult to photograph coz of the gloss finish reflecting light!!).The powder comes with a powder puff…however, I prefer to use it with a fluffy powder brush. I feel that with a puff, I am not able to achieve non-patchy application – for any powder (not just this one).

I have heard people cribbing about how loose powder of other brands tends to fly all over the place when the container is opened. I have never faced this issue with this product because of the screw open lid and the fact that the sifter has very tiny holes. However, it can be a little irritating to keep tapping the box against the wall to get enough product out. So, if you are in a hurry…note, it is going to take a wee bit longer!

My experience with Estee Lauder Lucidity Transparent Loose Powder:

The powder is meant for setting makeup as a final touch. It is supposed to give a smooth finish and minimize the look of fine lines. The powder IS amazingly finely-milled and smooth. It pretty much melts into your skin and does not show up at all. It is not transparent – the numbers increase as does the intensity of colour.

It does not provide much in terms of coverage – note the product is NOT designed to give coverage. It is a setting powder meant as a last step to your makeup.Because it contains silica and mica – it absorbs oil from the surface effectively. It gives me a matte finish (read velvetty rather than dry finish) for about 5 hours, post which I need a touch-up on my extremely oily skin.

To sum this up for you:

Pros of Estee Lauder Lucidity Transparent Loose Powder :

1. Extremely finely milled powder
2. Not discernible – melts into the skin – Refer to the photograph on how its not discernible on the skin once applied except for making it look smooth and matte.
3. It does not make the skin look dry, patchy or blotchy.
4. Does not contain talc.
5. Keeps the skin matte for good 5 hours.
6. Easy to apply
7. HUGE Tub – 21gms!!! I have been using it daily since February and it seems hardly used!! I wonder if I should put this in con because I want to try MUFE / NARS / Laura Mercier and there is no way I can justify buying another one…for the next 5-8years!!!

Cons of Estee Lauder Lucidity Transparent Loose Powder :

1. A little irritating to keep tapping / banging the box to the wall to make the powder sift up!

Please note – It is not fragrance free (Ingredient list mentions fragrance) – however, I could not detect any fragrance.

Grande Finale:

IMBB Rating – 4.8

Please note, this is my one and only loose powder product so I have nothing to compare it with. However, I am happy with the product. I deduct a small amount for the lack of ease of use – the necessary tapping required to move the powder up. So you might wonder how this powder could make me fall in love with the Brand….is it THAT amazing? Well, let me share a secret – this was not THE product which started my affair with EL. It was the product I bought along with this one. Which one? Wait for the next review!!!

Milte hain break ke baad!

Faces Mineral Loose Powder Golden Beige
The Body Shop Nature’s Minerals Foundation
The Body Shop Loose Face Powder
Revlon Skinlights Face Illuminator Loose Powder
NYX Loose Powder Transparent Light
Chanel Loose Powder
Lakme Rose Powder
The Body Shop Pressed Face Powder
Calvin Klein Subliminal Purity Loose Powder
The Body Shop Extra Virgin Minerals Loose Powder Foundation
Make Up For Ever HD Powder Review – High Definition
MAC My Paradise Cheek Powder Review, Swatch, FOTD
E.l.f. Studio Contouring Blush & Bronzing Powder
MAC Studio Careblend Pressed Powder
Revlon Colorstay Mineral Finishing Powder
Wet n Wild Megaglo Illuminating Powder in Catwalk Pink
Revlon Skinlights Face Illuminator Loose Powder

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Estee Lauder Ingenious Color Palette Review

Break khattam hui and its time for me to introduce to you what made me fall in love with Estee Lauder makeup.

As mentioned in my previous review, along with the loose powder, I bought something special, what? I bought a travel exclusive makeup palette – an absolute impulse buy out of frustration at not being able to find a couple of things I was looking for – namely Bobbi Brown lipstick in Cosmic Raspberry and eyeliner in Jeans!!

I love buying palettes, emphasis on buying rather than using because I have never truly been happy with one. I had some tacky ones as a teenager (till my mom put a stop to it saying – “if you want to use makeup, you will use only quality products on your face). Alas, in those days, quality products translated only to Lakme!!

My first high-end travel palette was from Dior – ensconced in the well know Dior cannage – an absolute delight for the eyes, but yes, you read that right…BUT…not really suited for Indian skin tones. The Dior Addict lipstick shades were all wash-outs for me. I wasn’t into eye makeup, so eyeshadows were a waste, the pressed powder, highlighter, contour powder were the wrong shade. The only thing I did use was the mascara – Extase! Rest was pretty much a waste!!!

I personally feel that travel palettes are a great way to test a brand – because you get to try a number of things from the brand – eyeshadow, lipsticks, lip glosses, blushes, mascara, eyeliner, concealers, pressed powder, lip pencil, kohl, etc. Its like you get to try so many things and can take a call whether you want to buy the full-sized versions of the same or not.

However, there are 2 big problems – not all brands make universally useable palettes – some times shades are more suited to Caucasian skin tones and the other grouse that I have is that some brands do not mention the products/shades used in the palette. I have Lancome Absolu Rouge lipstick palette with 6 shades of lipstick and 1 lip gloss. However, no shade names are mentioned on the palette or on the box. Same is the case with my Dior palette.

This is where the Estee Lauder palette stands out:

Great selection of colours – suitable for most skin tones – light to medium to medium-dark.
All products are identifiable and can be bought individually.
Perfectly compact and has all things I need – except base makeup of course. I can actually go on a holiday carrying just this palette.
The shades/colours are mentioned on the flip side of the palette – enabling the customer to know which shade they are using and can go and buy the same one if they like it. I did!!!
This is excellent for office use also – something handy to carry in your laptop bag or something you leave in your office drawer for mid-day touch-ups.

I will share individual reviews of the full-sized products that I bought. This is a mini review of the products in the palette and the palette in general – in case you like something and want to try it yourself.

Product Description:

Great looks on-the-go in one sleek compact. Its like taking a professional makeup artist wherever you go. Pure impact. Pure luxury. Pure emotion. Pure Color. Long-wearing color creates maximum impact.  High fashion shades and luxurious formulas. Color so incredible, it leaves you wanting more.

Price:

About INR 4000 (post conversion from Thai Baht).

Packaging:

The palette is compact and extremely user friendly. The packaging is typical Estee Lauder blue with EL written on top, its a sight to behold! Elegantly chic! Though a fingerprint magnet!

The palette opens up to reveal pressed powder on the left side and lipstick palette on the right side and a huge big mirror. The beauty of the palette is that these 2 products come with individual flip covers and can be individually detached from the palette and carried around.

The lipstick palette cover also ensures that no powder product enters into it (unlike my Dior palette where eyeshadow and lipstick are right next to each other, uggghhhh!!!).

The powder and lipstick palette slide sideways to reveal an eyeshadow quad, a blush and the applicators.

A sample-size bottle of mascara enjoys a place on the top!

The ingredients for all products are mentioned on the box, I have not included all in the snaps because it is easy to find the ingredients online.

Products:

Pressed Powder:

AeroMatte Ultraluscent Pressed Powder:
1W Transparent – 4.2gms – Content made in Italy.

The powder is finely milled and melts into the skin. I quite liked this and used it as a staple (in place of loose powder) while I was travelling. The powder controls shine and oiliness fairly effectively, providing me with a matte look for close to 5.5 hours. Please note, this was during the summer months. However, if you sweat, the powder will come off on your tissue when you try to blot your face.

Lipsticks:

4 Pure Color Long Lasting Lipsticks – Made in Belgium:

Pink Parfait (reviewed earlier by Rati)–It’s a soft pink with very minute non-obvious shimmer (almost looks like a sheen). More suitable for medium to fair skin tones.
Wildly Pink (will be reviewed shortly) – It’s a cream finish hot pink colour.
Coral Fantasy (reviewed earlier by Rati) – My favorite from this line. Its again a cream finish, coral leaning towards pink. When swatched, it looks 85% similar to MAC Impassioned. Obviously, the finish is extremely different..
Bois de Rose– Again a cream finish lipstick, the colour is similar to Bobbi Brown Heather Pink - its a dirty rose colour – excellent for office use and for fall.

Love the fact that the colours available are a combination of bright and wearable colours and are fairly varied.

The texture, feel, long-lasting character of the lipsticks took me by surprise and created a love that I went out and bought myself a new tube of Wildly Pink and Coral Fantasy and quite a few others which are going to be reviewed shortly.

The lipsticks are individually priced at Rs. 1750 for 3.8 gm product.

Eyeshadow Quad:

Pure Color eyeshadow – 1.1 gm.

Glistening Gold – As you can see in the photographs, its an off-white colour with non-gritty extremely minute glitter. Works very well for general highlighting including the brow bone, etc.
Sizzling Copper – My favorite in the quad – it’s a coppery gold metallic colour. I love using this as an overall wash of colour on the eyelids which results in instantly brightened eyes!
Nude Fresco – the palest pink shimmer. Feels like butter to the touch! Its amazing!
Chocolate Bliss – Matte chocolate brown colour – perfect for crease work.

The colours are amazingly pigmented, soft like butter – you feel as if you are working with a cream product. Honestly, the amount of eye-makeup I do (read – not much) – this is perfect in terms of colours and the quality of product.

Priced at INR 1950 onwards for 2.1 gm of individual product.

Blush:

Pure Color Blush in Peach Passion – 2.6 gm.

Peach Passion blush is a peach with micro shimmer, so subtle that it is barely visible and absolutely not obvious.
This could well be Estee Lauder’s answer to NARS famous “O*g*sm”. Perfect subtle shade which would go well with pinks, peaches and oranges – and especially well with the lipstick colours in this palette.

The only concern is that the blush is a little small and it becomes a tad difficult to pick the colour with a regular-sized blush brush.

Priced at INR 2865 for 7 gm of individual product.

Mascara:

Magnascopic Volume Mascara.

Designed to give up to 300% thicker lashes, with a special wide brush. This is smudge proof, does not feel heavy on the lashes and lasts you the whole day. I am not getting into details of this because it has been reviewed by Rati earlier.

Applicators:

This section talks about my grouse with the palette! The applicators are fairly rubbish – no surprise there. I think I will be surprised the day applicators actually work!

The powder puff (if you can call it that) is a chit of a piece and can be barely used for touch-ups/
The lip brush is okay.
The eye applicators are useless – enough said!
The blush brush is scratchy – I took it out to experiment only for this review, but in an emergency – it can be used to apply the blush, but will not do justice to the blush.

Since I have given all details in individual reviews, I am not doing a separate pros and cons.

Grande Finale:

IMBB Rating:

5/5

As a palette it’s a definite 5 – no, I do not deduct for the applicators because I did not expect much from the applicators.

As individual products – all items are top quality – be it lipsticks, eyeshadows, blush, mascara or pressed powder. Individually, also the products are 5!

Thus started my love affair with Estee Lauder makeup – more reviews coming up soon!

P.S – I know you might wonder why I write reviews in fits and starts – the reason for it is depicted in the picture below. Just as I am ready to take a pic – a tiny grubby paw comes to flick the product away! That’s my little one!

Estee Lauder Pure Color Long Lasting Lipstick Raspberry
Estee Lauder Eye Makeup Remover
Estee Lauder Lucidity Transparent Loose Powder
Estee Lauder Invisible Fluid Makeup
Estée Lauder Blush All Day Natural Cheek Color – Desert
Lakme 9 to 5 Lip Color -Red Coat
Maybelline Color Sensational Bold Matte Lipstick Mat2
NYC Color Wheel Mosaic Face Powder: All Over Bronze Glow
Maybelline Colorsensational Lip Color – Very Cherry
How To Make Empty Magnetic Makeup Palette – DIY
Coastal Scents 88 Color Eye Shadow Palette
MUA Professional Heaven and Earth Eyeshadow Palette
Urban Decay Naked Palette
Lakme Absolute 6 in 1 Travel Kit – Day and Night Palette Lip Sync

Indian women are talking about:

estee lauder lucidity new colors equivalents to old colors
estee lauder palettes
fresco in old estee lauder so what color in new formula?

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MAC Pro Longwear Paint Pot in Let Me Pop

Hello Lovely Ladies,

I am back after a while – was out for a short vacation (and a tad bit of shopping…ok, a little shopping….ok! ok! A lot of shopping!!!) So lot many more reviews lined up.

This review is dedicated to one of my readers (Shrutika) – with my last review on Estee Lauder’s Rebel Raspberry, I had promised her that my next review will be an eye product instead of a lippy. So here goes..

MAC Vintage Selection Pro Longwear Paint pot collection was launched in US in the beginning of the year, however, reached India in the second quarter (as is usual with most International launches). The entire selection is permanent.

When the range was launched in the US the International blogosphere got abuzz with the swatches, I had my heart set on Éclair…a sparkly brown Bronze colour. I did think it would suit our Indian skin tone well. However, MAC thought otherwise because the same was not launched in India (as is the case with most of MACs hot products). Apart from the fact that India is probably the last one to see the new launches, even the regular customer-favorites are nowadays sold-out at MAC stores for months on end. For me, the brand is increasingly losing its sparkle. If we as customers don’t mean much to MAC – locally (considering their lousy in-store hospitality) or internationally (as a significant market) – it’s time to move on to better brands!

The Product Details (from the website):

MAC Pro Longwear for eyes returns in seven new shades. From creamy beige to brilliant blue-green and shimmering silver, Pro Longwear Paint Pots deliver highly dimensional colour with a luxurious finish. They apply smoothly and dry with vibrant intensity. New shades of Pro Longwear Eye Liner define eyes with a dense, water-resistant formula that glides on comfortably and stays for 12 hours. From eggplant to army green and sheer gold, coordinate with Paint Pots for a chic, modern look that lasts.

Price: $20 in US / INR 1450 in India

Packaging: The packaging of the Pro Longwear paint pots is no different in look, size, design and quanity from the regular paint pots. It’s a thick glass container with a black screw-on lid.

The same comes encased in a cardboard outer cover.

My experience with MAC Pro Longwear Paint Pot in Let Me Pop:

After hounding MAC stores for months, I finally got a peek at the paint pots. Since Éclair wasn’t there – I started to search for another neutral colour.

My requirement:

1. Neutral colour so that it’s easy to apply on the run
2. A colour wherein I do not have to worry too much whether the edges are well blended or not since I am still learning eye makeup.
3. Something with glitter/sparkle/shine so that it brightens up the eye area

I finally shortlisted it down to Vintage Selection – champagne colour with frosty sheen OR Let Me Pop – a coppery gold colour with distinct glitter.

I applied one on each lid and checked with couple of SAs – both MAC and non-MAC for what seemed better. Guess what was their response? No! They actually said Vintage Selection was a better option. Why? Vintage Selection has shimmer while Let me Pop has glitter. Shimmer is more easy to carry off, has lesser fall-out, can be used more often. However, when I looked in the mirror, I felt that Vintage Selection was more cool toned and hence made the eye area seem more grey. While Let me Pop, because of the golden sheen and glitter, brightened the area. LET ME POP!!

The texture is similar to other paint pots – like a hard cream. However, it comes onto the fingers easily and can be dabbed onto the eye lids. It sets down fairly quickly – however, gives you enough time for application and blending. A thin layer is enough to get the brightness. In some of the pics it may seem a little cakey – that is because initially, I used too much product. The sparkle is more visible once it dries off. However, I ended up putting more product resulting in the caking.

The staying power seemed the same as other paint pots – did not seem exceptionally long as the name suggests – Pro Longwear – claiming 12 hours of crease free colour. I got about 8hours of wear time, which is great and is as good as the regular paint pots.

One point to note for this particular paint pot – you cannot use it as base for your powder eyeshadow. The glitter in the texture results in a non-smooth surface. This would make even & smooth eyeshadow application on top, practically impossible. I have to be extra careful putting the eyeliner also. Sometimes I prefer to put my liner on and then dab the paint on my lids.

To sum this up for you:

Pros of MAC Pro Longwear Paint Pot in Let Me Pop:

• Excellent neutral colour – easy to apply on the go
• Flattering colour for the Indian skin tone.
• Easy to blend product and colour
• Instantly brightens the eye area
• Love the glitter
• Extremely pigmented – a thin layer is enough to give the sparkle
• Crease – proof
• Stays put for good 8 hours with minimum fall out.
• Perfect colour for an evening out
• Easy to apply
• Have tried it all over lid, over another cream eyeshadow and under the lower lash line – worked well in all scenarios

Cons of MAC Pro Longwear Paint Pot in Let Me Pop:

• Has a little fall out by EOD – nothing which concerns me too much
• Not ideal to be used as base/primer for powder eyeshadows on top. Glitter will not allow a smooth application. However, can be mixed / layered over another cream eyeshadow.

No price caveat again – quality does not get determined by price!

IMBB Rating: Yes, again a 5/5 product.

I love it and use it practically every other day. Love it in the day as well as the evening out. Just purrrrfect for an eye-makeup novice like me.

So have you tried MAC Pro Longwear paint pots? What’s your favorite colour?

Also read:

MAC Groundwork Paint Pot
MAC Painterly Paint Pot
MAC Paint Pot Morning Frost
MAC Paint Pot in Blackground
MAC Bare Study Paint Pot
MAC Paint Pot Soft Ochre
MAC Paint Pot : Rubenesque, Delft Review, Photos, Swatches
MAC Fresco Rose Paint Pot
MAC Constructivist Paint Pot
MAC Cham Pale Paint Pot, Eye Shadow Quad Photos, Swatches
MAC Paint Bare Canvas Review, Swatch
MAC Pro Longwear LipCreme Prolong
MAC Pro Longwear Foundation
MAC Pro Longwear Concealer

Indian women are talking about:

mac paintpot
mac let me pop

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Maybelline Colorsensational Vivids Lipstick – Shocking Coral

I am EXCITED!! No, I am SUPER EXCITED!! No!!! I am SUPE DUPER EXCITED!! I am super duper excited to share the Maybelline ColorSensational Vivids with you!

Ok…here’s what the story is! While surfing through the world of Beauty Blogs, I came across these luscious lipsticks in the most beautiful, vibrant colors! This was way back in May-June! From the swatches that I saw, I wanted all the colors – it would have been waaaaay to difficult to pick 1 or 2 or 3!! Problem? NOT AVAILABLE IN INDIA! Hmmmmppppffffff!

So, I was very excited about my Thailand trip because I thought they would be readily available there. Checked in Duty Free – not there. Checked in Boots (they have stores all over the place – sometimes even 3-4 within the same mall) – nope. Checked at Zen @ Central Mall (department store like Nordstrom) – nada. I was heartbroken! I tried to mend my heart with some Illamasqua, Shu Uemura, NARS and Bobbi Brown but continued to search all Boots outlet. And then one day at MBK Mall, I stepped into Watsons and my excitement hit the roof! I fund these babies in 5 colors – refer pics for the colors and swatches! I wanted them all! But of course there is a small hiccup called budget! And after the previous “heart-mending” spree I went on, hubby pretty much said “NO”! But we managed to walk out of the shop with 2 of these! 2 is better than nothing, right?

The Product Details (from the website):

Now bright goes gorgeous, never garish. Brighter color from our exclusive vivid pigments. Creamier feel from nourishing honey nectar.

WHY YOU”LL LOVE IT:
Be Bright and Gorgeous
Exclusive Vivid colors are brighter
Honey nectar formula nourishes lips

FOR BEST RESULTS:
Apply Lipcolor Starting in the center of your upper lip. Work from the center to the outer edges of your lip, following the contours of your mouth. Then glide across the entire bottom lip.

Price:

$7.49 in US / 299 Baht = INR 627

Don’t know when they will launch in India and at what price point.

Packaging:

The packaging is similar to the Regular Color Sensational lipsticks with one big difference. While regular ones come with different colored caps, co-ordinated with the color of the lipstick; the Vivids come with Red colored cap. Meaning, it is difficult to identify the color in a stack except for the color/name/number indicator at the bottom. The sticker at the bottom is co-ordinated with the color of the lipstick tube. Refer pics.

So, there is nothing GREAT about the product packaging – its functional, its standard.

My experience with Maybelline Colorsensational Vivids Lipstick – Shocking Coral:

Color: The color “Shocking Coral” is definitely SHOCKING! It’s a bright pinky coral with touch of Fuchsia – quite like MAC Impassioned. Its loud, its in your face. It’s not for the faint hearted. I love it! Could be a dupe for Impassioned.

Texture:

The texture is creamy, not gloopy and goes on evenly. It does not settle into the fine lines. It looks creamy and has a glossy finish. It was fairly easy to apply from the tube but since the product has smoothness and slip, you have to be careful while applying this bold color.

Pigmentation:

As mentioned on the website, the colors are vividly pigmented. A single swipe deposits about 70% color. A second swipe gives you the bold, intense shade in the tube. For Shocking coral, I did feel that the color post application developed to a shade darker than the tube.

Lasting power:

The lipstick is long lasting – about 6 hours plus. Meal did diminish the intensity of the shade but it stayed put. Post the lipstick disappearing, the pick stain stays for another couple of hours and the residue of it has to be taken off with a makeup remover.

To sum this up for you:

Pros of Maybelline Colorsensational Vivids Lipstick – Shocking Coral:

1. Intense VIVIDcolor –. Extremely bold and beautiful
2. Excellent pigmentation – A single swipe is enough for good color coverage. However, second swipe builds intensity to the same color as the tube.
3. The lipstick applies creamy – without any tug or pull.
4. Does not settle into the fine lines of the lips
5. Does not hydrate but doesn’t dry out the lips either
6. Despite the boldcolor – There was no feathering or bleeding
7. Decent packaging
8. Fairly long lasting – 6+hrs wear time.

Cons of Maybelline Colorsensational Vivids Lipstick – Shocking Coral:

1. Considering the boldness of the color, you have to be a tad careful with the application.
2. AVAILBILITY!!!!! When will it reach India????!!!!!!

IMBB Rating:

Yes, again a 5/5 product.

It’s a fantastic product and at a fantastic price. This is the only drugstore product that I have seriously been lemming to get my hands on! If only it would get launched in India. I can see a few colors getting sold-out within days. I’m loving it!

I took swatches of all the colors that were available at Watsons so that I could show you the beauties. So which would be your picks amongst these?

Maybelline Color Sensational Vivids Lip Color – Pink Pop Review
Maybelline Colorsensational Color Vivids Lip Color – On Fire Red
Maybelline Color Sensational Vivids Lip Color – Pink Pop
Maybelline Color Whisper Lip Color – Who Wore it Red-er
Maybelline Color Sensational Lipsticks Photos and Swatches
Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick Totally Toffee Review, Swatch
Maybelline Color Sensational Lip Gloss Photos and Swatches
Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick Choco Pop Review, Swatch
Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick Coral Crush Review, Swatch
Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick in Plaza Pink
NYX Matte Lipsticks in Shocking Pink and Summer Breeze
Elle 18 Color Pops Coral Romance Review
Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick Coral Crush
Lotus Herbals Lipstick Carnation, Coral Pink Lip Liner
Revlon Matte Eyeshadow Tempting Teal 006
Clinique Long Last Soft Shine Lipstick Bamboo Pink Review

Indian women are talking about:

coral lipsticks india
maybelline vivids shocking coral review

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Maybelline ColorSensational Vivids Lipstick – Vibrant Mandarin

Hello Lovely Ladies (and any guys who might be tuning in!)!!

If you read my previous review on Maybelline Vivids – Shocking Coral, you are already aware of my excitement about this range! They come in bright, vibrant colors, have a smooth creamy texture (not slick) and are long lasting! And I love them! But I love this color more coz it is IN with my current leaning towards oranges with underline of red, pink or coral (since I find pure oranges like MAC Morange look too garish on my skintone).

The lipstick bullet has a nice cut/indent to hug the lips while applying – just like Shiseido Perfect Rouges. If you see the pics, you will see the cut is less defined in Vibrant Mandarin than it was in Shocking Coral, because this one has been getting a lot of Love from me!

It’s a tad more coral than YSL – Le Orange, reviewed by me earlier, which leaned more orange. But, it could serve as a affordable dupe for it – once its available in India – obviously!

Launched in US in 10 vibrant colors. Only 5 were available in Thailand from which I was able to pick only 2! “Waaaaah” And still await their launch here. For your benefit, I swatched the 5 colors I found – refer pics and do let me know which would be your pick from it.

The Product Details (from the website):

Now bright goes gorgeous, never garish. Brighter color from our exclusive vivid pigments. Creamier feel from nourishing honey nectar.

WHY YOU”LL LOVE IT:
Be Bright and Gorgeous
Exclusive Vivid colors are brighter
Honey nectar formula nourishes lips

Price:

$7.49 in US / 299 Baht = INR 627

Packaging:

In packaging, they are similar to the Regular Color Sensational lipsticks with one big difference. While regular ones come with different coloredcovers, co-ordinated with the color of the lipstick; the Vivids come with Red coloredcover. So, irrespective of the shade, the cover is still Red.

The base sticker is color co-ordinated with the color of the lipstick. However, the cover being same, it is difficult to identify the color in a stack, if you have more than one. And trust me, you will have more than 1!!

My experience with Maybelline ColorSensational Vivids Lipstick – Vibrant Mandarin:

Color: The color “Vibrant Mandarin” is definitely VIBRANT! It’s a mix of orange, red and coral. Its bright, its vivid, Its loud – again, not for the faint hearted. I am loving this more than the coral one currently.It’s perfect for someone wanting to wear a bright orange but finding a tangerine orange (Like MAC Morange) very stark and unbecoming.

Texture: The texture is creamy, not gloopy and goes on evenly. It does not tug or pull when applying. However, it isn’t too slick either…so you will not have lines forming on your lips when pressed together. I found the texture consistent between the 2 lippies I tried in this range.

Pigmentation: As mentioned on the website, the colors are vividly pigmented. A single swipe deposits about 70% color. A second swipe gives you the bold, intense shade in the tube. It’s fairly easy to apply directly from the tube.

Lasting power:
The lipstick is long lasting – about 6 hours plus. Leaves a pinkish stain (most lipstick do that on me), which stays for another couple of hours. To get the residual color off you, you have to use a makeup remover.

To sum this up for you:

Pros of Maybelline ColorSensational Vivids Lipstick – Vibrant Mandarin:

1. Intense VIVIDcolor –. Extremely bold and beautiful
2. Excellent pigmentation – A single swipe is enough for good color coverage. However, second swipe builds intensity to the same color as the tube.
3. Easy to apply from the tube
4. The lipstick applies creamy – without any tug or pull.
5. Does not settle into the fine lines of the lips
6. Does not hydrate but doesn’t dry out the lips either
7. Despite the boldcolor – There was no feathering or bleeding
8. Decent packaging
9. Fairly long lasting – 6+hrs wear time.

Cons of Maybelline ColorSensational Vivids Lipstick – Vibrant Mandarin:

1. AVAILABILITY!!!!!

IMBB Rating:

Yes, again a 5/5 product.

The quality and pricing is fabulous, its long lasting, has absolutely beautiful vibrant colors – what more does the heart want! I hope they get launched soon. My wishlist has 4 more color – yeah, somebody needs to come and spank me – literally! Shamelessly addicted to lippies!

So which ones are on your wishlist?

Indian women are talking about:

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Shiseido Perfect Rouge Sublime RD142

Since my readers keep saying that I am addicted to pinks and corals, I thought I would share a different shade with you – Shiseido Perfect Rouge – Sublime RD142 is just that! RD in the tag refers to Red. A lot of people on the blogosphere refer to this color as Red but trust me, it has only the barest hint of red.

This is not a color I would have reached for on my own. It was swatched on my hand by the SA and I was definitely intrigued. Post trying it, I was sold. So what color is this and how did it fare – read on to find out.

A little bit about the Company:

Shiseido is a major Japanese Hair care and cosmetics producer. Founded in 1872, its one of the oldest companies in the world. It is the largest cosmetic firm in Japan and the fourth largest in the world. As of 2000, it is also the owner of NARS and Bare Essentuals,

The Product Details (from the website):

Rich, vibrant color that envelops your lips with just one lustrous coat. The creamy texture with nurturing ingredients improves the lips’ condition with regular use.

• Specially sculpted shape and angle designed to create a beautiful finish with just one stroke.
• Color technology: Red Illuminating Pearl, adds strength and vividness that creates truly brilliant color definition, and the instant you apply it, vibrant color blooms on the lips.
Skincare Technology: The moisturizing effect lasts all day long with the help of Hyaluronic acid to hold moisture in, and Super Hydro-Wrap Vitalizing DE to lock it in. Lips look naturally smooth.

Price: $25 in US / Original shades are INR1550 while new shades are priced at INR 1800.

Sublime is a new shade.

The new shades have SHISEIDO GINZA TOKYO engraved on the base of the lipstick bullet – just like other high-end brands have the Company logo or name engraved on the bullet.

Packaging: The packaging is interesting – it has an octagonal or a flower like shape. The case is gunmetal grey and comes packaged in a cardboard box. As is the case with all high-end brands, there is no indicator for color identification.

The cardboard packaging and the sticker at the bottom of the lippy, both just bear the number, making it extremely difficult to identify the color – you are not likely to remember which number stands for what shade.

The lipstick case has a nice heavy feel to it – consistent with high end products – giving it a luxury feel.

My experience with Shiseido Perfect Rouge Sublime RD142:

Color: The color is what caught my attention – definitely not what I usually wear. Its peach with a hint of red and a tad bit of pinkish brown. It’s fairly neutral but not the dark somber nude. Looks fairly natural but there is distinct color on the lips. Refer pics for the actual color – I’m having a tough time penning this down!! Though in the tube it seems to have a pinkish hue. On lips it goes on more peachy.

In short, for someone like me, who definitely needs color even when going for the subtle no-makeup look – this is equivalent to a n*dish lippy for me. Though it definitely isn’t a n*de color. It would go easily with any eye makeup.

Texture: The texture is very creamy, goes on evenly without any tug or pull while applying. You do not need a lip balm below this. Its fairly moisturizing while on.

Pigmentation: A single swipe deposits 70-80% color and the shape of the bullet (with the slight indentation) allows the color to go on evenly. A second swipe will give you the color on the tube.

Lasting power: I feel that the color kind of stays on top of the lips without blending into them or adhering to the lips. Net result is that it transfers fairly easily and disappears with a snack (a slice of pizza to be precise)! Without eats, it lasted for about 3 – 3.5hours. I was extremely surprised with my experience since bloggers (Indian as well as International) mentioned it as a long lasting lippy (and I am talking of the same color, not like a red variant or something). I rechecked the Shiseido site – they do not market it as a long lasting lipstick. So I guess its ok – with the creaminess, slip and hydration it offers, its no surprise that the staying power is low. However, I do not get how my experience is soooooooo drastically different from other bloggers.

Also note that Post the lipstick disappearing, there wasn’t much of a residual stain – which might be because of the color per se.

To sum this up for you:

Pros of Shiseido Perfect Rouge Sublime RD142:

• A unique color – I haven’t come across this shade before and cannot really think of a dupe for it!
• Excellent pigmentation – A single swipe is enough for good color coverage. However, second swipe builds intensity to the same color as the tube.
• Easy to apply from the tube
• The lipstick applies creamy – without any tug or pull.
• Does not settle into the fine lines of the lips
• It feels hydrating on my dry lips – while it’s on.
• There was no feathering or bleeding
• Luxurious packaging

Cons of Shiseido Perfect Rouge Sublime RD142:

• Shiseido products are not as easily available in India – except select ShopperStop counters
• Lasting power – I personally prefer the lipsticks to be longer lasting. However, pls note that the Company isn’t really selling them or claiming them to be long lasting.
• Transfers easily
• I don’t understand why Company’s don’t label products with the name and expect customers to remember the numbers like their SAs!

IMBB Rating: 4.5/5

I find the shade very unique and this is the closest I’m ever likely to wearing a neutral color. The lipstick is definitely hydrating while worn – which is one of the claims from the Company and the product delivers on that. Pigmentation is great too. The only flipside for me is the low lasting power of the product.

Would I rebuy? Not sure. For the color, maybe. But else, I would prefer something where I don’t have to worry about frequent touch-ups.

Also read:

Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Moisturizing Emulsion
Shiseido Eyelash Curler
Shiseido: Makeup Stick Foundation
Shiseido The Makeup Dual Balancing Foundation
Shiseido White Lucent Intensive Spot Targeting Serum+
Shiseido The Skincare Purifying Mask
Shiseido The Makeup Automatic Lip Crayon
Shisiedo Elixir Superieur Lifting Moisture Emulsion II
Lakme Perfect Radiance Intense Whitening Face Wash
MUA Matte Perfect Loose Translucent Powder
MUA Matte Perfect Foundation – Natural
Sunsilk Co- Creations Perfect Straight Nourishing Conditioner
L’Oreal Paris Infallible Le Rouge Lipstick – Always Apricot
L’oreal Infallible Le Rouge Lipstick in Tender Berry (519)
Chambor Rouge Plump+ Lipstick- 701
Chambor Powder Matte Lipstick: Rubis Rouge

Indian women are talking about:

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NARS Powder Blush – Torrid

What would life be without corals? Sad and depressing, no doubt. With the hordes of coral and orange lippies I have amassed since I started reading IMBB (yes, blame it on something!), I have to have the best coral blush to go with it, right?? Enter, NARS Torrid!

NARS really needs no introduction – they are the ultimate name in Powder blushes. Smooth, finely milled, easily blendable, excellent color pay-off – these are some of the adjectives which best describe NARS blsuhes. The invariably top the charts for being the best blushes – year on year.

PRODUCT (from the website):

NARS – The ultimate authority in blush, NARS offers the industry’s most iconic shades for cheeks. Natural, healthy-looking color that immediately enlivens the complexion. A light application for even the highest intensity hues delivers a natural looking flush
• Silky texture in matte and shimmering shades
• Micronized powder ensures soft, blendable application
• Iconic NARS shades

NARS Blush offers a range of translucent, natural shades, each with a subtle pink for natural blush undertone, created to highlight the complexion. Torrid as per the NARS website is a “Warm coral with Golden Shimmer”. It was rated as the “Best Blush for Medium to dark” skin – 2013 Instyle “Best Beauty Buys”

Price –USD $29 / About Rs 1900 (post current conversions) for 4.8gms

Packaging:

Standard NARS packaging – comes in a black rubberised case enclosed in a cardboard box. The case has a decent size mirror but no applicator. The applicators which generally come along are anyways useless, so I guess its ok to have saved the space and money on it. The rubberised packing has no colour indicator except the name written on the flipside. It’s a little irritating to search the colour you want if you have more than one.

My experience with NARS blush in torrid

Color – As mentioned by the NARS website, the color is “Warm Coral with Gold shimmer”. This describes the color aptly. However, do note that the shimmer is extremely fine and looks more like glow than shine on your face. It goes perfectly with all my coral, orange and orange-toned-pink-&-red lippies. So it’s a must for the summer months. Honestly, if you have this…you are pretty much sorted!

Texture – Finely milled, smooth and extremely blendable texture allows the product to kiss the cheeks and look like natural flush rather than a blotchy affair. This is my 4th NARS blush and I feel that the product texture is consistent across the line.

Pigmentation – Immensely pigmented. One light sweep of the brush is all you need. I have been using this fairly regularly this summer and there is yet to be a visible dent in the pan. I use my MAC 116 to apply the blush just under my cheekbones instead of the apple of my eyes.

Lasting power – The definitely lasts. I get about 7-7.5hours of wear time on my oily skin.

Visibility on Skintone – The colour is not as subtle as Deep Throat, nor is it as intense as Taj Mahal.The colour would suit and be visible on all skin tones. Lighter skin tones will need to use a very light hand or a fan brush to get this right.

Enumerating the Pros of NARS Powder Blush – Torrid

1. Finely milled, smooth, easily blendable – Its NARS Gurrrls!!!
2. Its super pigmented – so a little truly does go a long way!
3. Fabulous for the summers – goes well with most lipstick colours
4. Comes in a sturdy easy to carry packaging (with mirror)
5. Extremely long-lasting – even with my oily skin
6. The color works well for day and night both
7. The shimmer is extremely fine – does not accentuate the pores
8. Did not break me out
9. Is unscented

And the Cons of NARS Powder Blush – Torrid

1. The rubberized packaging is a dust and fingerprint magnet – and difficult to clean.
2. Availability in India is restricted. Though the parent Company – Shiseido is present in India, NARS is yet to be launched here.
3. No color indicator on the case. I am contemplating leaving a swatch on the case – because it will be easy to identify and extremely difficult to take off!

Overall thoughts:

Is it the most unique color? I guess not. I am sure there are other pretty corals in the market. However, I do feel that this colour, clubbed together with the quality of product makes it a better buy than most other dupes. Having this in my kitty, really does sort it out for me in terms of pairing a lot of my lippies. I do not need another coral blush – ever! Refer pics for how it looks on my NC35 skintone.

IMBB Rating – 5 /5
This has been getting a love of love from me this summer. However, I still don’t see a dent in the pan. Will I repurchase – yes, if it gets over in this lifetime!

Francois’ Insight – When it comes to blush, how and where you apply it is more important than what color you use. Cheek color shouldn’t be limited to the apples (no one blushes only on their cheeks!). I always blend a bit into the hairline, along the jawbone, and on the tip of the nose to create a more natural-looking, all-over hint of color.

So, do you agree with Mr. Francois NARS?

NARS Orgasm Blush
Nars Blush Highlighter Duo in Orgasm and Albatross
NARS Dolce Vita Blush Review, Swatch, FOTD
NARS Taj Mahal Blush
NARS The Multiple- Orgasm for Cheeks, Lips,Eyes and Body
Nars Portofino The Multiple
GAP Mini Wand Lip Gloss Set
Christian Dior Les Parfums Miniature Collection 5 Piece Set
Calvin Klein Variety by Calvin Klein for Men Mini Gift Set
Mineral Makeup Cosmetic Brushes Set- Mini
P2 Pure Color Lipstick in 059 Copacabana

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Shu Uemura Anti/Oxi Skin Refining Anti-Dullness Cleansing Oil Review

IMBB Sponsored Product Review

Thank you Team IMBB for sponsoring my first ever Shu Uemura product! Shu Uemura is known worldwide for two things – their cleansing oils and their eyelash curlers. I bring to you the review on Shu Uemura Clesnsing Oil – a product which bridges the gap between makeup and skin care –Shu Uemura Cleansing Beauty Oil Premium Anti/Oxi.

Product Description:

Shu Uemura, currently owned by the L’Oreal group (which also owns other brands like Lancome, Maybelline, Garnier, YSL), was founded by Mr. Shu Uemuras in Japan. Mr. Shu Uemura started his career as a makeup artist in Hollywood in days of Frank Sinatra and MacLaine. He launched his first cosmetic product in 1960 – a cleansing oil – to clean the face better than soap while moisturizing it! He came back to Japan and in 1967 and found the cosmetic company, then named Japan Makeup, which was later changed to Shu Uemura Cosmetics in 1983.

Mr. Uemura sold the controlling interest in his company to L’Oreal in 2004, but continued to be the creative force behind the company till his demise in 2007.

Shu Uemura Cosmetics today produces, hair and lifestyle products, fake eyelashes, handmade makeup brushes, cosmetics and cleansing oils!

What is a Cleansing Oil?

Unlike regular “oil cleansing” (refer IMBB’s article on oil cleansing), cleansing oils work better because they are an ingenious combination of water solubility and oil. All oils have similar molecular bonds (specifically covalent ones). As a result, they are capable of breaking apart similar molecules. So, when you rub on an oil cleanser, it dissolves even tough makeup and breaks up sebum and grime on the surface of your skin. Then, because the oil has been made water soluble, the entire formulation washes away completely. Your skin gets clean without getting stripped of its natural moisture the way it does with some traditional cleansers.

Product Description:

1 bottle sold every 7 seconds – beloved for over 40 years. Shu Uemura’s 5 gentle botanical formulas and the new Anti-Oxi blend nature and technology to provide solutions for your unique skin. The moisture balance of the skin is maintained and the skin feels soft and healthy, radiating your inner beauty. It leaves no residue and thoroughly cleanses your skin, without drying it out. There are 6 variants available.Anti-Oxi – is targeted towards ageing concerns like dullness of skin.

Anti/Oxi cleansing oil: The anti-oxidation and anti-pollution formula helps rejuvenate skin leaving it smooth, radiant and youthful.Works on dull yellow look. The innovative combination of moringa extract and green tea extract creates a result of glowing clarity and refined smoothness. Shu Uemura introduces the innovative anti-pollution power of Moringa extract. Combined with legendary anti-oxidative Green Tea extract, it instantly captures and clears pollutants that accelerate aging stress.  It’s our no.1 cleansing oil, reborn.

Price:

$77 in US / 3800 Baht = Rs. 7600

Ingredients:

Packaging:

It comes in a plastic bottle with a pump which can be locked by twisting it to a different position. Considering the size of the bottle, its not very convenient to carry, but it is safe to do so thanks to the locking mechanism. The bottle comes encased in a green cardboard box. Refer pics for packaging details.

My Experience with Shu Uemura Anti/Oxi Skin Refining Anti-Dullness Cleansing Oil:

Till some time back, I was not even aware of cleansing oils, I only knew of regular makeup removers and special ones for eye and lips. On a trip abroad, I chanced upon cleansing oil in a drugstore rack lying next to makeup removers and I remember thinking to myself, “oil on face? won’t that make an oily face even more oily?” You would also read online how fabulous this is for dry skin, etc., etc. I beg to differ – with my own inexperienced thoughts and those proclaimed on certain blogs (pertaining to dry skins). The product is effective for all skin types, not just dry skin type. I will run through this aspect in detail in the review.

The product is a transparent liquid (in a green bottle), it is required to be applied on dry skin (meaning – the way it is to be applied and not skin type – “dry” as in “not wet”). I pump the product onto my palm; two pumps are sufficient for the face and neck. I rub the product onto my face and neck, including eye area and lips. Though I have sensitive eyes, I did not feel any sting/irritation.

The product dissolves all makeup, dirt, grime, excess sebum from the face and neck. Once the makeup is dissolved, splash water on your face and neck. Since the cleansing oil is water soluble, it (along with the makeup, grime, dirt and sebum) will create an emulsion and will get splashed away. The product turns milky on mixing with water, continue rinsing and the product is washed away.

Dry the skin with towel. The skin feels soft and supple. There is no tightness of skin. There is no residue of the oil on the face, no feeling of oiliness, stickiness or “something is there and needs to be wiped” feeling. You do not need to cleanse your face with a cleanser post using the cleansing oil, nor do you need to moisturize – since the cleansing oil takes care of both these aspects.

Having used this on my face since last 2 weeks, I feel a radiance and suppleness to skin, and I am loving it!

In the pics, I have demonstrated the product on my arm (instead of the face) using long wear makeup products as guinea pigs!

For dry skin – it would provide the much needed moisturization. For oily skin, it removes excess sebum hence refreshing the face.

The product has a herbal smell – not too strong or off-putting – at least to me.

This is one amazing product and I am thankful to IMBB that I was able to try this phenomenal product!

To sum this up for you:

Pros of Shu Uemura Anti/Oxi Skin Refining Anti-Dullness Cleansing Oil:

Will work well for all skin types.
Removes makeup extremely effectively – refer pics for demo.
Does not make the skin tight – like some harsh cleansers do.
Leaves no residue or stickiness on the face.
Feel skin becoming radiant with regular use.
Did not cause any skin irritation or breakouts.
Easy to dispense and apply – bottle has a pump.
Easy to store and carry – the pump can be locked by twisting the nozzle.

Cons of Shu Uemura Anti/Oxi Skin Refining Anti-Dullness Cleansing Oil:

Availability in India.
It has a herbal smell – may not be liked by people who prefer their skin care to be fragrance free.

IMBB Rating:

5/5.

It an absolutely fabulous product, love how my skin looks and feels thanks to this!In effect, it’s a makeup remover, moisturizer and skin nourisher in one. While buying this, I did notice that the company has a separate product for sensitive skin, however, I felt that this one itself performed phenomenally on my sensitive skin! The bottle should last me about 3-4 months with regular usage.

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Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler
Shu Uemura 1-Day and 3-Day Makeup Classes on Deal Grocer
Shu Uemura Face Architect Smoothing Fluid Foundation
Shu Uemura Aya Takano Reindeer Kiss XXXX Palette
Shu Uemura Glow On M Pink 30
Vichy Aqualia AntiOx Pro-Youth Antioxidant 24Hr Hydrating Fluid
Antioxidants in Skin Care
H2O Green Tea Antioxidant Face Complex
Antioxidant Diet
Kaya Super Orange Bloom Skin Awakening Rinse
Estee Lauder Idealist Pore Minimizing Skin Refinisher
Clinique Pore Minimizer Instant Perfector and Pore Minimizer Thermal-Active Skin Refiner
Garnier Skin Naturals Fresh Essentials Invigorating Toner
Nivea Aqua Effect Skin Refining Scrub
Nivea Visage Skin Refining Scrub
Neutrogena Pore Refining Cleanser
Freeman Superfruits Refining Facial Cleanser
Biotique Bio Peach Clarifying & Refining Peel-off Mask
Soap & Glory The Fab Pore Refining Facial Peel
L’Oreal Paris UV Perfect Longlasting UVA/ UVB Protector SPF 50 Anti-Dullness
Oil Skin Cleansing Methods
Kerastase Elixir K Ultime Sublime Cleansing Oil Shampoo
Oil Cleansing Method: DIY
Clinique Anti-Blemish Solutions Oil Control Cleansing Mask
Lush 9 to 5 Orchid Oil Cleansing Lotion

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YSL – Rouge Volupte Shine – #19 Fuchsia in Rage

Hello Lovely Ladies!

I know I have been away for a long time. I have been busy with a work assignment which took a lot out of me. Now that it has been submitted, I can breathe a sigh of relief and am back. Back with another lippy…from my new found crush – Yves Saint Laurent – better known as YSL!

I am surprised that with my love for lippies, I did not explore this brand for so long. Rouge Volupte and Volupte Shine pretty much have cult following of their own – and rightly so.

Since I love pigmented lipsticks instead of the balmy ones, I generally steer clear of variants which are named “Shine” (Coco Shine) or “Sheer” (Rouge d’Armani Sheer). So when I wanted to buy a Rouge Volupte (RV), I thought to pick RV instead of Rouge Volupte Shine (RVS) because I was under the notion that Volupte Shine are the less pigmented cousins of the Original Volupte formula. Boy, was I wrong! Read on to find out my experience with this formula.

The Product Details (from the website):

Introducing Rouge Volupté Shine. Give in to the temptation of dazzling color. Succumb to a unique sensorial experience with extreme comfort and luminous shine. Hyaluronic acid microspheres help seal in moisture for 8 hours of hydration. Anti-oxidants and emollients help condition and soften lips.

What it is:
An innovative and comforting lipstick enhanced with fruit extracts rich in vitamins and antioxidants that leave lips visibly softer and smoother with up to eight hours of hydration.

What it does:
Succumb to a unique sensorial experience with dazzling color, extreme comfort, and luminous shine. The luscious, hydrating texture glides on your lips leaving a lightweight aqua shine effect, while Back Injection Technology offers extreme comfort and pleasure upon application. This innovative lipstick is formulated to protect lips from free radicals and seal in moisture for up to eight hours of hydration.

What else you need to know:
Antioxidants in natural extracts of pomegranate and rosemary reduce the look of fine lines, while candellila resin forms a thin, protective layer to help lock in moisture and magnify color and shine. Mineral pigments provide bright, vibrant color and a melting formula (instead of a solid stick) enabling smoother glide-on application and an ultrafine lightweight film on lips. Hyaluronic acid spheres hydrate and soften lips to help seal in moisture for up to eight hours of hydration.

Price: $34 in US / In India @ INR 1900.

Packaging:

The packaging is beautiful and eye-catching –almost like owning a piece of jewellery. The golden casing has the YSL logo running in the middle within a coloured strip – colour reflects the colour of the product in the tube.

I think the packaging is extremely luxe while being practical. Easy to identify the shade from afar and has the weight and luxurious feel of an upmarket brand.

After you are finished staring at the case lovingly, you open it and twist the lipstick out, too ogle at it for some more time….It looks gorgeous! Almost good enough to eat!!

Comes packaged in a cardboard golden box, which makes photography a nightmare!

My experience with the Product:

Color: The colour is probably the most talked about colour of this line because it happened to feature in one of Lisa Elridge’s video. So needless to say, everyone who decided to try this range, went for this colour.

Why did I pick it? Coz I liked it! Actually, I had been looking for this kind of a pinkish violet for sometime – had zeroed in on a Rouge d’Armani in this shade – but it was always sold-out wherever I checked. So I settled for YSL instead.

Though named Fuschia in Rage – I do not think the colour to be pure Fuschis – its more voliet/plum than pink. It’s from the same famly of colours as MAC Up the Amp or Violetta but with distinctly more pink in it.

It’s got a glossy luminosity – I cannot call it sheen, it makes the lips look luminous, luscious with glossy colour.

Texture: The texture is very glossy – more glossy than creamy. It glides on like a dream with buttery softness. You do not need a lip balm below this. Its fairly moisturizing. And you definitely don’t need a gloss above it! However, there is no stickiness which is generally associated with glosses.

Pigmentation: Despite being named Volupte “Shine,” it still packs on the pigment. A single swipe deposits 60-70% color – you do need to build it with 2-3 swipes to get the colour in the tube. The colour though actually opaque on the lips, appears transluscent coz of the glossiness.

Unlike other “shine” variants of other brands, this is definitely “shine” but not “sheer”! However, for people who prefer things sheer, you could apply it lightly to get that effect. Either ways, it a win.

Lasting power: This is the beauty of the product – the product lasts about 3-4 hours – which I understand is not great in itself. That’s the same amount of wear a lip butter or balmy lipstick would give you. However, the difference is that it lives behind a pretty stain, which sticks on for hours – till you actually remove it with a remover. Since the lipstick is moisturizing, the stain itself is non-patchy and even.

To sum this up for you:

Pros:
1. A beautiful bright color
2. Amazing glossy shine – make lips look fuller, more attractive.
3. Great pigmentation – Option to get the colour in the tube or a sheer wash. However, pls note, the single swipe is not equivalent to sheer of colour – it still packs on pigment.
4. Easy to apply from the tube
5. The lipstick is moisturizing and applies like a dream – no tug or pull….far from it!
6. Does not settle into the fine lines of the lips
7. There was no feathering or bleeding
8. Luxurious beautiful packaging – you can sit and stare at it for hours.
9. Functional packaging – addresses customer concern by providing colour indication on the case.

CONS:

1. The colour may not be everyone’s cup of tea. However, more natural pink, red, coral, brown shades are also available.
2. YSL products are not as easily available in India – except select ShopperStop counters
3. Transfers fairly easily

IMBB Rating:

Yes, a 5/5 product.

From my raves you would have guessed that its my current hot favorite! I like the product more than the colour and definitely intend to go back for another one. So, have you tried YSL products yet? Whats on your wishlist?

How it looks on my NC35 skin & lip swatch

Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupte Lipstick – Provocative Pink
Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupte Lipstick Exquisite Plum
Yves Saint Lauren Rose Volupte Lipstick – Rose Infinite
YSL Rouge Volupte Lipstick Caress Pink No.9 + Jimmy Choo Binnis
Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupte Lipstick Shade Beige Ultimate
YSL Rouge Volupte Shine Lipstick – Rose in Tension Review
Loreal Color Riche Lipstick – Intense Fuchsia
Lakme 9 to 5 Lip Color – Fuchsia Friday Review
Colorbar Lip Pencil – 013 Fuchsia Fever
Revlon Colorburst Lipstick- Fuchsia
Maybelline Jewels Collection Lipstick Rubylicious, Fuchsia Crystal Review

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Shiseido Perfect Foundation Brush Review

Hey! Trust you are having a great day!

I thought I will take a little break from my lipsticks and bring to you another love of mine – makeup brushes. From budget to mid end to high end – I have tried quite a few and through my reviews on them, I will share my learning along the way.

In case of brushes, I do feel that they are an extremely under-rated makeup product in India. Probably because we don’t have too many choices in the budget range and branded ones come with a hefty price tag, but this has impacted our outlook towards brushes negatively. We are okay to splurge on a lipstick but feel stingy about doing the same for a makeup brush which would outlive the lipstick and would probably be used way more often than the lipstick!

A good foundation brush is a MUST in everyone’s vanity. Whether you use liquid, cream or powder foundation – an appropriate brush is needed and more often than not, it will change with the product in hand. You would have heard that the base of your makeup is important and it’s essential to get a good quality foundation because that’s the base of all our makeup and getting it right is half the battle won. However, a good quality foundation will not be able to do much for you if its not applied properly – if it looks streaky, patchy or uneven. Hence, if foundation/BB creams/tinted moisturizers are crucial to your makeup routine – invest in some good brush for them.

Product Description:

Finally, a foundation brush for use with all formulations – liquid, cream or powder. Shiseido’s innovative technology combines with traditional Japanese brush-making techniques to create the perfect foundation finish. Excellent pick-up of all types of formulas for a uniform application and impeccable finish. Gently tapered strands create an angled slant that best allows bristles to reach all facial contours. Short handle allows for precise control during application and portability for travel.

Allure – The Beauty Expert 2013 – The Best of Beauty Award Winner

From the Pack:

Foundation fits seamlessly against skin. This brush creates a perfect natural finish with great coverage. It works well with any type of foundation, emulsion or powder. Avoid applying water resistant foundation with this brush. I presume the last one is on account of the fact that it could get difficult to clean (get the product out of the brush).

Price:

$30 in US/in India @ INR 1950.

Packaging:

It comes packaged in a hard plastic box, makes it easy and convenient to store or carry it. How essential is the packaging of a brush? MAC does not provide any packaging, just a simple BoPP wrap. While I would not want companies to hike price of a product to accommodate the price of a case/container/package; however, for high-end brands, I would like the product to be packaged more attractively than a BoPP wrap! While one can argue that MAC isn’t really a high-end brand, there brush prices aren’t cheap or even mid-range! Their most coveted foundation brushes – #187 and #130 go for over INR 3000. What if INR 100 of this amount (less than $2) would have been utilized towards aesthetics – meaning packaging! It’s a personal view, but I feel, if Estee Lauder, Lancome, Shiseido can do it – why not brands like MAC?

My Experience with Shiseido Perfect Foundation Brush:

Size: The brush has a short handle and is fairly petite – refer pics for size indication.

Bristles: Artificial.

Bristle shape: Short, stumpy, densely-packed tapered bristles.

Coverage: Provides medium coverage.

The brush head consists of tightly-packed artificial bristles which are soft to touch but do not have much give. Meaning, the feel of the bristles is soft. However, they are not pliant or don’t bend to soft touch. They resist bending, which ensures a smooth, streak free application of foundation.

Background: I wanted to buy the standard sized MAC #130 stippling brush, which for me is pretty much my ultimate foundation brush since I first started using its SE version. The cost and non-availability continued to be a deterrent. So, my search for alternatives began.

When it comes to brushes, I love to experiment with different shapes – which you will learn through future posts. I knew I needed a brush with thick head and short bristles, to stipple my foundation. So, I remembered reading about this Shiseido and a similar Dior brush on the blogosphere. Thankfully for me, Dior and Shiseido counters are opposite to each other in Shopper’s Stop. I first visited the Dior counter – the brush seemed a little scratchy to touch, I do not know if it was real hair or artificial, plus the price was close to the MAC one, it didn’t make sense to me to settle for something and still pay top bill. So, I hopped across to the Shiseido counter. The SA handed the tester brush to me, it was hard and filthy! I wouldn’t have let them put it even 5 inches close to my face, let alone test it on my face. I refused to look at it. So, the SA promptly brought out a new piece to show. I obviously couldn’t test it by applying foundation (because it wasn’t a tester), but I gently felt the bristles which seemed soft). Purchase was made.

When I tried the brush, I took some foundation on the back of my hand, dotted my face a little bit and picked the brush to start stippling. It wouldn’t move!!! The brush wouldn’t rotate to buff, it wasn’t making sense! Finally, I figured my mistake – this brush isn’t meant for stippling, since the bristles are finely packed, same sized throughout and it doesn’t have much give unlike a stippling brush. This is what happens when you don’t try the product before buying!

However, all isn’t lost. The brush is great! Its just that its not a stippling brush – its more an alternative to paddle brush kind of application. So, you dot the face with foundation (either with fingers or the brush itself) and use swiping motion to apply the foundation. When a hundred bristles go over the same portion of your face –the foundation gets nicely buffed. Since the brush head is compact and the handle is short, it gives an absolutely streak-free application and provides great control. Its also fairly easy to go around the facial contours like the nose area, etc.

Since I am used to stippling my foundation, I feel this brush takes more time than when I use my stippling brush; however, time taken is almost the same when I use my paddle brush.

The application coverage it provides is medium.

I did try to use it with my powder foundation as well and found it very convenient. Plus, with its small size, its fairly easy to carry as well.

To sum this up for you:

Pros of Shiseido Perfect Foundation Brush:

No shedding.
Soft bristles.
Synthetic bristles – easy to maintain.
Short handle gives more control over the application and portability for travel.
Gently tapered strands create an angled slant that best allows bristles to reach all facial contours.
Compactly packed thick head applies the foundation in an absolutely streak-free manner.
Bristles pick all products easily – liquid or powder (did not have a cream foundation to test with).
Multi-tasker – works well for liquid and powder foundation both. Though would advise you to clean between either application, else the result will be uneven and cakey.
Convenient packaging.

Cons of Shiseido Perfect Foundation Brush:

The brush head consists of compactly packed short bristles which can be a tad bit difficult to clean – to get the product totally out.
Shiseido products are not easily available in India.

IMBB Rating:

Yes, 4.75/5 product. Taking off 0.25 for the slight difficulty in cleaning. It’s a great brush to add to your routine since it works well with liquid or powder foundation. Would advise you to try it before you buy it, but please insist on the SA cleaning the brush before used on you. This should anyway be your thumb-rule when testing a brush or a product.

So, what is your favourite foundation brush type and your favorite brush. Do share through the comments.

Shiseido: Makeup Stick Foundation
Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Moisturizing Emulsion
Shiseido Benefiance Wrinkle Resist 24 Night Cream
Shiseido Perfect Rouge Sublime RD142
Shiseido White Lucent Intensive Spot Targeting Serum+
Shiseido
Perfect Rouge Lipstick – Rd346 Bedtime
Shiseido Bio Performance Super Corrective Serum
Shiseido The Skincare Purifying Mask
MUA Matte Perfect Foundation – Natural
Rimmel London Fix and Perfect Foundation Primer 001
Deborah Milano 24 Ore Perfect Foundation
L’Oreal Paris Age Re-Perfect Foundation
Lakme Perfect Radiance Skin Lightening Foundation
Lakme Launches Perfect Radiance Foundation
Colorbar Perfect Match Foundation Photos, Swatches
Lakme Absolute Foundation Brush
Real Techniques Foundation Brush
Best Foundation Brushes Available in India
Clinique Foundation Brush
The Body Shop Face & Body, Blusher, Mineral Foundation Brush
Bharat and Dorris Stippling Foundation Brush

Indian women are talking about:

shiseido fair ben nye foundation
what foundation can i use with shiseido foundation brush

For more articles related to Makeup, Beauty or Fashion visit www.makeupandbeauty.com

Estee Lauder Signature Hydra Lustre Lipstick – Radiant Wine Review

Hello Lovely Ladies!

After Rati’s article on welcoming the winters with Burgundy shades, I thought I might as well give in and follow suit. So, here’s my contribution to the winters. Let’s see, there are about 100 different variants of lipsticks out there promising moisturization, hydration, soft and supple lips and we also know that 80% of these do not live up to their claims, so does this one, let’s find out.

Product Description:

Color so creamy, it seduces every curve of your lips.

Love Your Lips:

You know this is an extraordinary lipstick from the moment it touches your lips.

Full-coverage color has true character and depth.
Finish is lustrous for a smooth, sophisticated shine.
Rich, hydrating formula feels light and comfortable.
Hours of moisture. Hours of wear.

Price:

$22.50 in US / In India @ INR 1735.

Packaging:

A standard lipstick design, with a heavy golden ribbed casing. The packaging is eye-catching and upmarket. The heft definitely adds to the luxe factor. The golden casing has the EL logo on top.

As is common with most upmarket brands, there is no colour indicator except for the sticker at the bottom of the lipstick. Squint and figure which one it is!

My Experience with Estee Lauder Signature Hydra Lustre Lipstick – Radiant Wine:

I take most claims about hydration with a pinch of salt. Invariably, they tend to be far-fetched. Very few products deliver on the claim of colour and hydration together. This is one such product. If you look at the lip swatch, you will see that my lips look a bit dry. I was in Chandigarh, battling with the sudden change in temperature, Mumbai is still about 30 degrees while Chandigarh was way cooler. My lip balms were not being very effective in warding off the dryness.

However, the Signature Hydra Lustre lipstick made my lips seem nicely moist and the suppleness lasted a few hours post the lipstick disappearing – which is a tall claim to deliver – in my opinion.

Color:

The colour is burgundy with a hint of plum and a slight sheen to it. The sheen gives a shimmer to the lips and does not look like frost. The colour is great for winters; however, not what I usually wear, I prefer brighter shades irrespective of the season.

Texture:

The texture is very creamy and goes on smoothly without any tug or pull. You do not need a lip balm below this. It’s fairly moisturizing.

Pigmentation:

A single swipe deposits 70% color. You do need to build it with a second swipe to get an even application, especially for my lips, which were very dry at that time.

Lasting Power:

The product lasted about 4.5-5 hours – which was fairly decent; however, falls short on the claims made by the company regarding “hours of wear;” however, the hydration provided by the lipstick fairly outlived the lipstick itself. My lips felt to be in better shape post using the lipstick, than they were before. The lip swatch is taken directly post application of the product.

To sum this up for you:

Pros of Estee Lauder Signature Hydra Lustre Lipstick – Radiant Wine:

A beautiful winter shade, though not a very unique colour.
Good pigmentation, two swipes are sufficient to build up to the colour in the tube.
Easy to apply from the tube.
The lipstick applies easily – no tug or pull!
Does not settle into the fine lines of the lips.
There was no feathering or bleeding.
It was fairly moisturizing – lips felt supple even 3-4 hours after the lipstick had disappeared and this was in Chandigarh (where temperature has dropped).
Luxurious and beautiful packaging.

Cons of Estee Lauder Signature Hydra Lustre Lipstick – Radiant Wine:

Estee Lauder products are not as easily available in India except select Shopper Stop counters.
Not very long lasting, as its touted to be.

IMBB Rating:

Yes, a 4/5 product.

I can understand why the formula gets characterized as “Signature” line – it pretty much delivers above average in colour pigmentation, wear time and exceeds expectation (at least mine!!) in the hydration department. Pictures will show you how it wears on my NC 30 skin – I have turned a tad lighter because of long time spent indoors and using better sunscreen (reviews coming up shortly!)

So, how are you welcoming the winters. Do you change your makeup colours as per the season?

Estee Lauder Pure Color Long Lasting Lipstick Raspberry
Estee Lauder Eye Makeup Remover
Estee Lauder Lucidity Transparent Loose Powder
Estee Lauder Invisible Fluid Makeup
Estee Lauder Ingenious Color Palette
Estee Lauder Signature Lipstick in Woodland Berry
Estee Lauder Signature Lipstick – Coral Kiss
Estee Lauder Pure Color Lipstick Pink Parfait Review, FOTD
Estee Lauder Pure Color Long Lasting Lipstick – Wildly Pink
Estee Lauder Pure Color Lipstick Coral Fantasy Review, Swatch, Look
Estee Lauder Pure Color Vivid Shine Lipstick – Poppy Love
Chambor Hydra Max Cleanser, Toner and Moisturiser
L’Oreal Hydra Fresh Instant Freshness Foaming Cream
Matrix Hydra Creme Intense Moisture Masque
Kaya Hydra Cleanse Makeup Remover
MAC Lustre Lipstick Touch
Tips and Toes Lip Lustre Lipstick – Orchis
Maybelline Colorsensational High Shine Lipstick Coral Lustre
Revlon Midnight Swirl Lip Lustre – Sassy Sangria
Sunsilk Co-Creations Radiant Shine Shampoo
Colorbar Radiant Glow Face Illuminator Pen
Victoria’s Secret Beauty Rush Radiant Blush Flutter
Sonia Kashuk Radiant Tinted Moisturizer SPF 15
L’Oreal Colour Riche Lipstick – Classic Wine
Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick Matte – Wine Not
Maybelline Superstay 14 hrs Lipstick- Wine and Forever
Faces Canada Moisture Rich Lipstick: Pink Wine
Lotus Herbals Moist Petals Lipstick in Grape Wine
Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick in Velvety Wine

For more articles related to Makeup, Beauty or Fashion visit www.makeupandbeauty.com

MAC Bronzing Powder – Matte Bronze

I have a chubby round face – yeah, I try to cut it with my bangs, I try to look for good angles when taking snaps and love the idea of contouring to make them look like Kim Kardashian’s high cheekbones….but…

So, I am always on the lookout for good contouring / bronzing powders and brushes. Have tried and tested quite a few…some of them are already reviewed on IMBB – like the Benefit Hoola and the theBalm Bahama Mama. I bring to you today the Bronzing powder from the brand everyone on IMBB loves – MAC!

The Product Details (from the website):

A lightly frosted, tinted powder that gives skin sheer, natural colour effects and highlights. Ideal for enhancing a skin tone or to accent or strengthen a tan. Skin-conditioning, long-wearing—and formulated to provide a smooth, even application on all skin types.

Comes in 4 colours – Golden, Refined Golden, Bronze and Matte Bronze

Price:

$25 in US / In India @ INR 1650 for 10gms product

Packaging:

A standard black compact packaging similar to the Studio fix one, minus the compartment for the sponge applicator. The lettering on the compact is Bronze – (refer pics) – so it’s easy to identify it as against the Studio Fix powder – if lying together.The compact comes with a mirror but no applicator. Packaging is typical MAC – black and minimalistic; but Sturdy and smudge-proof.

My experience with MAC Bronzing Powder – Matte Bronze

Color: It’s a tad difficult to describe the colour – after all it’s a bronzing powder – its brown! Ok – let me qualify that statement by adding what colour it isn’t – it isn’t peach toned or orange toned or red toned – all of which look very weird when used for contouring – because they don’t look natural and can make the skin look dirty/muddy, rather than create the shadows of contouring. The color is a dirty brown – slightly grey tinged – which is perfect for contouring.

Matte bronze is obviously matte – I specify this because under the product description on the website, you see the product being referred to as “slightly frosted”. I presume that refers to the other 3 shades.

If you need the product for sculpting – you will need to go with Matte Bronze. If you wanted the sun-kissed effects of bronzing powder – then go for the other variant – depending on your skin tone.

Texture: The texture is very finely milled and smooth but extremely difficult to get off on the brush or even finger. It just doesn’t budge!!! Initially, when I tried it, I wasn’t getting the feel as if I had used a contouring powder – that’s because the product would barely come off on the brush – no amount of swipes helped.

I would have thought that maybe it was a problem with my piece rather than the product itself – however, I remembered later that while trying it in store also, I couldn’t really see the contour and the makeup artist kept telling me to use more product. If it doesn’t get picked by the brush – how do I use more product!

Finely I figured the only way to use it….I lightly shave the surface with my nail (clean ofcourse) to erode the powder (refer pics) and then swipe my brush on the powder. That’s the only way it works!

I wish they would just change the packaging and put a powder shaver in there like Clinique has for its Superbalanced powder! Alternatively, I should just break the product into powder and move it into a tub packaging. The compact could easily go “Back 2 MAC”! LOL!

Pigmentation: What do I say? Once, the powder does come off on your brush, the pigmentation is fairly decent. However, with all the shaving involved – a little does not really go a long way. But then you do have 10gms of product.

Lasting power:The product lasted about 5 hours – which was fairly decent. However, nothing to write sonnets about.

Visibility on Skin: The colour is perfect for my NC 30 skin tone – which was about NC 35 when I bought it. Its safe to say that it will work well on NC 20 – NC 42 range well. I would still request you to try the product in the store before buying. Refer Pics, its been used in the hollow of the cheek below the blush.

To sum this up for you:

Pros of MAC Bronzing Powder – Matte Bronze

1. Good colour- for contouring
2. Decent pigmentation
3. Decent lasting power
4. Does not accentuate pores
5. Finely milled smooth texture
6. Did not break me out
7. Applies evenly – however, not that easy to blend
8. Very lightly fragranced – I could tell only once I smelled the pan – for the review.
9. Minimalistic, sturdy and smudge proof packaging

Cons of MAC Bronzing Powder – Matte Bronze:

1. Extremely difficult product to work with – very difficult to get picked by the brush – has to be shaved each time.
2. No applicator

IMBB Rating:

Yes, a 2.5/5 product.

If you are ok with shaving the product with each application – this is a good colour for contouring –especially compared to Benefit Hoola which looks tad peachy to me. However, at that price point, I am sure you can do better.

You might ask why I bought it when my experience with it at the store wasn’t great? Well, it was my second shopping spree with MAC and naive (sounds better than calling myself stupid) that I was, I took it on the SA’s recommendation. That was one of my worst shopping experience in MAC – one of many bad experiences! The only person I trust in MAC now, is an SA in MAC Chandigarh – Gulshan. She is the only person I have met who doesn’t push products to me, doesn’t do overt suggestive selling…rather shopping with her, I feel like I’m shopping with a friend and have never had regrets about a product bought from her. Wish she would move to MAC Inorbit Mumbai!! Even the MAC Store manager in Chandigarh is amazingly sweet – Neha. I so wish I could get half as good a service in MAC outlets in Mumbai! Lucky Chandigarhians!

So, have you picked stuff on SA’s recommendation – only to find it a dud? DO share through your comments.

NYX Matte Bronzer – Deep Tan
MAC Humid Eyeshadow
MAC Antiqued Eyeshadow, Swatch, EOTD
MAC Nehru Eyeshadow Review, Swatch, EOTD
46 MAC Eyeshadow Photos, Swatches
MAC Samoa Silk Eyeshadow Review, Swatch, EOTD
Maybelline Dream Mousse Bronzer Review
Lakme Absolute Sun-Kissed Bronzer Review, Swatches, Comparison
MUA Mosaic Bronzer – Natural Glow Review
Sebamed Deep Cleansing Facial Toner Review
Watsons Deep Cleansing Nose Pore Tape Review

For more articles related to Makeup, Beauty or Fashion visit www.makeupandbeauty.com

Clinique Long Last Lipstick – Pink Spice

My readers tell me that I am becoming predictable! I want to break the mold. So here I am – for the first time ever – reviewing a n*de or a MLBB shade for all the lovely ladies who prefer these and shy away from colour. If at the end of the review, I receive less comments, I will definitely correlate it saying – “More people prefer my neon shades”!! LOL!!!

Lets face it, we all do need a couple of MLBB shades – for the times we want to go dramatic with our eyes. The neons just clash way too much. I remember attending a MAC lesson where the 2 looks I covered were “pigment application on eyes” and “defining the pout”. So, by the end of the 2 hours, I had bright purple on my lids and Impassioned on my lips! Trust me, not a good combo!

So, in my search for an MLBB kind of shade, I went to Clinique – known for their natural looking makeup. The colour I chose was Pink Spice. (Though that was not the only colour I picked! Yeah – somebody spank me pls!!)

The Product Details (from the website):

Longest-wearing, soft shine formula. Keeps its just-applied look for hours. Won’t feather, creep, stain or dry out.
Coverage – Medium

Price:

$15 in US / In India @ INR 1300.

Packaging:

The lipstick comes in standard packaging with a silver metallic ribbed case. The case is not hefty and fairly light instead. The lipstick has a normal twist-up mechanism.As is common with most lipstick brands, there is no colour indicator except for the sticker at the bottom of the lippy. Squint,squint and some more squinting needed!

My experience with Clinique Long Last Lipstick – Pink Spice

Color: The colour is more spice than pink with a hint of plum in it – giving it more life. It has a subtle shimmer (not frost). There is no grittiness due to the shimmer. The colour applies as an MLBB shade with a sheen to it. It would work great with dramatic eyes or pronounced cheek colour.

Texture: The texture is creamy and goes on smoothly without any tug or pull. The lipstick is like a MAC satin finish lipstick – which goes on creamy but later tends to suck moisture and make the lips look dry.

Pigmentation: A single swipe deposits 50% color. You do need to build it with a couple more swipes.

Lasting power:How do you make out if an MLBB shade is still on your lips? Since I am new to the world of n*de/MLBB shades, I really need help on this. I had to keep squinting at the mirror! OK! I’m kidding! Considering the Long last claims, the product barely stayed around for 3.5-4hrs and disappeared totally with my meal, leaving behind my dry lips.

To sum this up for you:

Pros of Clinique Long Last Lipstick – Pink Spice

1. A beautiful n*de/MLBBshade – with subtle shimmer.
2. Moderate pigmentation – Need atleast 2-3 swipes to build up the colour sufficiently.
3. Easy to apply from the tube
4. Lipstick applies easily – no tug or pull!
5. Does not settle into the fine lines of the lips
6. There was no feathering or bleeding
7. Decent unique packaging

Cons of Clinique Long Last Lipstick – Pink Spice

1. Clinique products are not easily available in India – except select ShopperStop counters or Clinique outlets (again associated with Shopperstop).
2. Not very long lasting – as its touted to be.
3. Not very hydrating either

IMBB Rating:

Yes, a 3/5 product.

The product isn’t bad – however, it does not deliver on the claims of being longlasting or hydrating. For an MLBB shade its decent. However, MAC Mehr is an MLBB shade for me – I do need more colour on my lips Gals! Can’t help it!

Anxiously awaiting comments on this one.

Chambor Truly lasting Lipstick Truly Coral
Maybelline Color Sensational Lipstick Coral Crush
Lotus Herbals Lipstick Carnation, Coral Pink Lip Liner
Revlon Matte Eyeshadow Tempting Teal 006
Clinique Long Last Soft Shine Lipstick Bamboo Pink Review
Clinique Long Last Lipstick – Runway Coral

For more articles related to Makeup, Beauty or Fashion visit www.makeupandbeauty.com

Make Up For Ever Sculpting Blush #18 Satin Light Peach

I have been always intrigued my this makeup brand – Make Up For Ever – Like MAC, they too provide a wide variety of products in a wide variety of colours – and a tad bit better priced than MAC – atleast it used to be. But now its all a different story! They opened their store in Mumbai in my second home – read Inorbit Mall. However, during those days, I was oblivious to big name makeup brands, beauty blogs, etc. Else, with my purchases, I might have single-handedly saved the store from closing down! Ok! That’s a stretch but you get my drift, right?

Thankfully, the brand was available in one of the premium malls in Bangkok and so I got to try (reaad Buy) a lot of their stuff. One of the first products I am reviewing here for you in one of their sculpting blushes – #18 – Satin Light Peach.

PRODUCT (from the website):

The Sculpting Blush is an oil-free powder blush, which comes in a slim compact case. The wide range of shades available answers every need with seven cold shades and seven warm orangey shades.

What it is: An ultra-fine powder blush that brightens and highlights the complexion.

What it does: Enriched with luminous coated pigments, this blush enhances the cheeks with an impeccable hold. Its soft and silky texture glides on the skin for an even result while its long-lasting formula adds a healthy glow to the complexion.

Price: USD $25 / About Rs 1700 (post current conversions) for 5.5gms

Packaging: The product comes packaged in a extremely sleek round plastic flip-open case. The case has a slit window to allow the colour of the blush to show, making it extremely easy to identify the colour without opeing or reading the flipside or remembering numbers (since the shade name is not mentioned anywhere except the MUFE website). The packaging is so sleek and minimalistic – however, not ideal for travel as it lacks a brush and a mirror.

Also, much to my chagrin, one of these blushes fell down and broke into pieces, breaking my heart with it, the very day I purchased them!!

So, the packaging is fairly fragile and will not withstand a drop.

My take on Make Up For Ever Sculpting Blush #18 Satin Light Peach:

Color – As mentioned by the MUFE website, the color is Satin Light Peack – which describes it aptly. Its true peach, unlike MAC Peaches which looks more light orange in comparison. The colour goes well with the Indian Skintone. Refer the pics to see how it appears on my NC30 skintone. Pls note that I have applied it a tad heavily so that the colour is better visible in the pics.

The colour is satin finish not matte or shimmer, something perfectly in between.

It goes well with all my pink, peach, coral, orange lippies. In the pics you see it paired with a soft pink colour.

Texture: Finely milled, smooth and extremely blendable texture. It comes off easily on the brush or finger and applies naturally. It applies evenly, there is no patchiness.

Pigmentation: Immensely pigmented. One light sweep of the brush is all you need to give a natural flush. If you want to build it up to colour in pan, that too is possible by layering it.

Lasting power: The lasts for about 6-6.5hours. You have to make allowance for my oily skin. Even NARS gives me no more than 7-7.5 hours of wear time.

Visibility on skintone: The colour is extremely easy to wear and easily shows on my skin. It brightens the face and doesn’t pull orange or pink – is a true peach.

Pros of Make Up For Ever Sculpting Blush #18 Satin Light Peach:

• Finely milled, smooth, easily blendable.
• Its super pigmented – so a little goes a long way!
• Fabulous for the summers – goes well with most lipstick colours
• Fairly long-lasting – even with my oily skin
• The color works well for day and night both
• The product has a nice satin finish – does not accentuate the pores
• Did not break me out
• Is unscented

Cons of Make Up For Ever Sculpting Blush #18 Satin Light Peach:

• Availability in India
• Flimsy packaging
• No mirror or applicator – even to help with touchups

IMBB Rating: 4.5 / 5

Overall Thoughts: I am liking the quality of product shelled out by MUFE, though not the packaging. The colour is not unique but a flattering peach – a true peach.

Does it replace my love for NARS blushes? NO! I do consider it to be a better product than MAC though, but quite as good as NARS. Do you get what I mean?

Skin Primer : Make Up For Ever HD Microperfecting Primer
Make Up For Ever HD Foundation
Make Up For Ever Aqua Eyes Collection Set
Make Up For Ever Brush Cleanser
Make Up For Ever HD Powder Review – High Definition
Make Up For Ever HD Blush # 6 Quickie
Diorskin Nude Natural Glow Sculpting Powder Makeup SPF 10
Sleek Aqua Collection Blush in Mirrored Pink
Sleek Blush in Rose Gold
How To Make Cream Blush With Unused Lipsticks: Do It Yourself
LA Colors Mineral Blush Naturale Shade
Revlon Powder Blush – Tawny Peach
Elle 18 Color Pops Lipstick: Rosy Blush

For more articles related to Makeup, Beauty or Fashion visit www.makeupandbeauty.com

MAC Mineralize Rich Lipstick in Lady At Play

I’m back with a MAC product, their Mineralize Rich Lipstick, launched in USA in March this year and in India in May. I was surprised to see that not a single shade from the product line has been reviewed on IMBB yet and very few in the Indian blogosphere at large. The atrocious pricing may have had something to do with it. So are they worth the price, lets find out.

Product Details (from the website):

A 77-Mineral Moist Complex that instantly nourishes lips with maximum moisture in a lightweight, non-sticky formula. Larger bullet applies bright, long lasting colour in a single stroke. Medium shine finish, buildable coverage. Magnetic closure.

Available in US in 12 shades. I found only 7 in the MAC store @ Chandigarh. I think there were eight launched in India. Refer Pics for the swatches of the 7 shades available in store. Style surge (missing swatch) was also released in India.

Price: $22 in US / In India @ INR 1900 for 3.6 gms

A regular MAC lipstick priced at US $15 and INR 990 is 3 gms

You do get more product for the extra amount you pay but not nearly as much as you pay. Plus, for people who don’t really finish their lipsticks, having more grams isn’t really worth it.

Packaging: The packaging has been worked out a little bit differently from the regular lipstick line, it’s similar in size but little chubbier. The cap is matte while the base and body are glossy black, attracting fingerprints.

Like Giorgio Armani and Burberry, the case has been provided with a magnetic closure. Means when you bring the cap close to the base, it snaps shut automatically. This ensures it wont come open on its own in your bag. The bullet comes in the regular MAC black cardboard casing.

The product is part of the “Back-2-MAC” program. I’m not elaborating on this as I presume everyone knows of it. If not, ask me though comments and I shall elaborate.

The price tag calls for a luxury feel to the product – after all, I can pay just a little more and pick a EL Pure Color, Lancome In Rouge, Laura Mercier. The magnetic closure is a huge plus. But that’s all the luxe there is to it.

My take on MAC Mineralize Rich Lipstick in Lady At Play:

Color: The colour is what got me at first look – though I didn’t buy then. Ok, here’s the story…

I shortlisted the colour when I first say these reviewed in the International blogosphere – Lady at Play, Elegant Accent and Lush life caught my attention. When they finally got released in India – the price tag seemed a big deterrent. Paying over INR 1600 for MAC did not make much sense to me – I waited for reviews on the Indian blogosphere – but nothing very conclusive came up. I dropped the idea of splurging on these though the sweet pinkish redness of Lady at Play stayed with me. And then something happened which is every beauty hoarders nightmare – the shade went Out of Stock!! Not available in Inorbit, Juhu, Andheri or even Chandigarh MAC. Needless to say, I wanted it!

So finally when MAC Chandigarh finally got fresh stock – I picked this baby up! Don’t say it, I already know – I’m crazy! (By the way – my family and friends know it too)!

So coming back to the colour, its coral, hint of red, hint of pink. (Like I didn’t have enough corals already!!) Its happy easy colour not neonish. Should suit the Indian skin tone nicely, without looking garish.

Texture: The texture is lightly creamy – with light glossiness. It glides on softly – no tug or pull on the lips. The formula is lightweight and easy to wear. The claim about being lightweight and non-sticky is bang-on. However, the claim about being nourishing with maximum moisturization is a bit of a stretch. Yes, it did not dry out my lips or leave them parched. However, hydration is more of comfortable wear while on rather than providing long-term moisturization.

Pigmentation: Pigmentation is fairly decent – about 60% colour deposit in a single swipe and easy to build up to the colour in the tube. The colour is opaque and hides lip pigmentation.

Lasting power: Again the claim regarding it being long lasting is a stretch. The product lasted about 4-4.5hours on me and disappeared along with the lunch. It does leave a stain – a soft light pink one. I presume that the darker shades like “Lush Life” or “Everyday Diva” might leave a more pronounced stain.

Pros of MAC Mineralize Rich Lipstick in Lady At Play:

• A beautiful bright color
• Lightweight soft creamy glossy texture.
• Decent pigmentation – 2-3 swipes will build upto the colour in the tube.
• Easy to apply from the tube
• The lipstick applies smoothly – no tug or pull!
• Does not settle into the fine lines of the lips
• There was no feathering or bleeding
• Practical packaging with a magnetic closure.

Cons of MAC Mineralize Rich Lipstick in Lady At Play:

• Not very long-lasting or overtly moisturizing – as claimed
• Price point – I’m not saying price as a con. But at this price point, I’d say that there are better products in the market.

IMBB Rating: Yes, a 4.5/5 product.

The product itself is decent – flattering colour, lightweight texture, and moisturizing while on – not weighing it down with the price factor. So I rate it accordingly.

However, there wasn’t much to impress here, atleast for me. For the price I am paying I want to be impressed with the product, not just be ok. At that price point, I feel there are better products in the market.

So what do you think about this line from MAC?

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Inglot AMC Cream Blush #81

Cream blushes are my bane…I love the idea of a cream blush but then I rarely use them cause I invariably always end up overdoing the product while applying. The fact that they don’t last on my oily skin is another strong deterrent. However, I still continue to buy them! Why God? Why??

The Product Details (from the website):

Jojoba oil, nylon and a complex mixtureof Spherical porous and non porous particlesgives this light and creamy formula its velvet finish on all skin types.

(That doesn’t say much, does it?)

Price:

INR 750 for 5.5gms product

Packaging:

A transparent plastic pot contains the product and has a black screw on cap. The product doesn’t appear very nice after a few uses – don’t know if it is unable to stand Mumbai heat or what but the product is pretty much all over inside the lid. It looks so messy. Plus the pot packaging isn’t really hygienic.

There is no mirror or applicator. The Bobbi Brown Lip and Cheek colours also used to come in a similar packaging – though a much bigger container. However, they have since, changed the packaging to a sleek compact with mirror (Check my review o
auty.com/bobbi-brown-lip-cheek-pot-rouge-coral-calypso/”>n Bobbi Brown Coral Calypso for the pics). Which allows application and touch ups on the move. And the Bobbi Brown product is also cream based but still solid enough not to create a mess inside the compact. I think Inglot too needs to do something to make up for these basic flaws in packaging design and product consistency.

My experience with the Product:

Color: The colour is a dark pink – probably the darkest in this range. Overdoing the colour can easily make you look like a clown or bruised. It has to be used ever so little.

For the pics, I have used it a tad heavily because I wanted the colour to show clearly. In a normal use, I would go much lighter.

This is not really a daily wear colour. On the contrary, when I wear this, I ensure that the rest of my makeup is lighter – including the lippy. Yes, I can see people wearing this with plummy winter shades. However, I feel myself shying from wearing strong colours on both cheek and lips. I’d rather wear a strong colour on the lips with a bronzer on my cheeks.

Texture: The texture is creamy but powdery – meaning it’s not as creamy as a face cream…its kind of thicker and drier. Not the easiest of textures to work with since it can easily go patchy.

Pigmentation: Pigmentation is amazing which is also reflective of the colour. It’s the darkest shade in Inglot AMC Cream blushes. So, even a little really goes a loooooong way. Rather a little bit extra is enough to make it look over the top and clownish.

Lasting power:The product lasted about 5 hours –fairly decent for a cream blush on an oily skin. I think layering with a powder brush could enhance the stay time.

Visibility on Skin: The colour is starkly visible – being so dark. Refer to the pics for how it looks on my NC 30 skin tone. Is it very flattering? I cant say. I do think I end up going overboard and don’t get the desired effect – maybe, I should have tried something lighter. But I feel the texture itself does not allow it to be applied smoothly or as evenly as one would wish.

To sum this up for you:

Pros of Inglot AMC Cream Blush #81

1. Intense colour
2. Great pigmentation
3. Decent lasting power
4. Does not accentuate pores
5. Did not break me out
6. Minimalistic, sturdy and smudge proof packaging
7. Paraben free
8. Not tested on animals

Cons of Inglot AMC Cream Blush #81:

1. No mirror or applicator – product packaging is an issue
2. Product consistency creates a mess within the box – undesirable.
3. Applies patchy

IMBB Rating:

Yes, a 2.5/5 product.

We use makeup to enhance our look and because its fun. However, if you open the box of a makeup product to find the product all messy – you are hardly going to use it. Plus, the colour, consistency and patchy application don’t real make a good product.

And while we are on the topic of Inglot – a quick heads up to all the readers. Inglot comes up with promotions from time to time. If the promotion is a discount off – go ahead with your purchases. However, if the promotion is buy “X” amount to get free products – steer clear of these. The free stuff is ALWAYS expired products and will be given to you without the outer covering/box which has the expiration date mentioned on it

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Guerlain Rouge G – #41 Gipsy

I always cover packaging in my reviews. But if there is one beauty product packaging, which stands out the most – it’s of the Guerlain Rouge G. Some love it, some hate it – but no one can ignore it! I fall in the category of “Love It”! But it became my bane. This review was to come to you in June/July – because that’s when I had

This review was to come to you in July when I first bought this. However, the packaging made it very very difficult for me to photograph it. I kept trying but it wouldn’t work. The pics wouldn’t do justice to the case. And the lippy wouldn’t sit/stand without the case. Finally, I gave in….held it in my hand and photographed it.

So I bring to the most beautifully packaging and exorbitantly priced lipstick available in India (cant say the world because its still $3 cheaper than Cle de Peau lipsticks – they are priced at $52).

The Product Details (from the website):

Lipstick is reinvented in an exceptional jewel with Rouge G, a subtle balance of intense colour and the comforting pleasure of a creamy lip balm. Behind this magical creation is an astounding formula: the unique combination of ruby powder for spectacular radiance, hyaluronic acid spheres for perfectly smoothed lips and wild mango butter for lasting hydration. Lips are intensely coloured, perfectly smoothed, moisturized and plumped up. For excessively perfect lips! A truly exceptional palette, lip glamour comes in 20 colourful shades as luxurious as they are radiant.  Rouge G also comes in four Rouge G Le Brillant shades to dress lips in a luxurious scintillating effect.

The light, delicate scent of a vanilla “floriental” leaves its incomparable mark on Rouge G de Guerlain. Top notes sparkle with a lemon, orange and bergamot accord. The rose and iris heart exudes sweetness. The vanilla and tonka bean dry-down gives Rouge G all of its intensity.

A jewel lipstick compact with a white-gold shimmer designed by Lorenz Bäumer, the young and talented jeweler in Place Vendôme. A horizontal design with feminine curves that houses a secret: a mirror automatically appears when the compact is opened. The lipstick has a purely elegant, contemporary design and closes magnetically. This exceptional object boasts a comprehensive, premium formula containing a star ingredient: ruby powder, which acts as an optical whitener to bring out the color and shine of the shades. The blend of natural active ingredients (Tiger Grass, wild mango butter, Gugul resin used in Ayurvedic medicine) completes the formula to plump up, smooth and bring moisture and softness to your lips.

Apply directly to the lips daily or, for a more sophisticated look, apply using a brush after outlining the lip contour with the Guerlain Lip Liner.

Price:

$49.50 in US / In India @ INR 285o for 3.5 gms

(Some stores have the older stock of certain shades available at earlier price of INR 2025)

Packaging:

Packaging of this lipstick is iconic – it’s the most easily recognizable design and the only lipstick which is designed this differently. The white gold shimmer lipstick compact was designed for Guerlain by Lorenz Bäumer, the young and talented jeweler in Place Vendôme. Owning a Guerlain Rouge G is actually like owning a piece of jewellery.

Refer pics for the design – though honestly, pics do not do justice to the product. You have to see it for yourself.

The compact is extremely hefty – making it the heaviest lipstick out there. The heft is because of the mirror – it has 2 mirrors forming part of the compact. As you slide the lippy out, the 2 mirrors open up – for application/touch-ups. The mirrors close and are held together by the magnetic closure of the lipstick tube. The lipstick itself is a standard twist up.

When placed horizontally (the only way you can place it) – it has Guerlain engraved on top. The knob which releases the mirror and separates the tube, has Guerlain’s trademark “G” engraved on it. On the flip side, it has the number and shade name of the lipstick etched – very very lightly. Apparently, if you buy these in US, you also have the option of getting it personalized by getting your name etched on it – just like a watch or a ring! Awesome, aunt it!

They are a bit difficult to store, since they don’t stand like other lippies and have to be kept horizontally. I store them in their respective boxes – they come in a standard black cardboard box. Storing them in the box ensures that the shade is easy to identify and they don’t getting any scratch marks. The compact does attract fingerprints though (Bummer!!) but is easy to clean!

Apparently, they are supposed to be given to the customer with a velvet sleeve. Which I did get when I purchased one from Parcos. However, far be it for Shopperstop Guerlain to give something free with a product – even though it’s supposed to be given. Considering the prices of Guerlain products – I find the customer service and “Gift with Purchase” policy extremely lacking in Shopperstop Guerlain counter. It’s really sad! But that’s a different story altogether.

Coming back to the compact – The heft brings in the big debate on is it required to be so hefty? Does it help? Inconvenient to store? Inconvenient to carry? Phew! Its designed like a piece of jewelry – so weight becomes irrelevant in that context. Does the mirror help – yes, it is practical for touchups. I anyways store my lippies in their respective boxes so this is no different for me. Lot of people on the International blogosphere crib about the added weight to carry. The way I see it, it’s a beauty to carry and bring out in public. The heft is a small price to pay. And we ladies anyway carry our whole world in our bags, so….

Considering the price is reflective of the packaging as well – I wish they would come up with lipstick refills over time. So that when (or should I say if), I finish a lippy, I could just put in a refill instead of paying for the entire compact all over again – just like with powder compacts.

WOW! I could go on and on about the packaging – and I think I have done that already. Lets get on to the product now.

My experience with Guerlain Rouge G – #41 Gipsy

Color: This was my first Guerlain purchase and I wanted to pick a colour I could use often enough to justify the splurge. Also, by the time I decided to pick Guerlain, I had come to the realization that I had way too many pink lipsticks, especially the bright fuchsia kinds. (Guerlain has some amazing pinks). So I decided to steer clear of the pinks and picked Gipsy – a soft orange shade with just a bare hint of pink and micro-sparkle. Apparently, the micro sparkle comes from “the unique combination of ruby powder for spectacular radiance, hyaluronic acid spheres”. I don’t know about the ruby dust but the micro-sparkle is so so so fine that it doesn’t translate into sparkle or shimmer or glitter but it provides a glistening effect instead. It’s beautiful and iridescent.

The colour is an easily wearable orange – easy enough to be carried off with or without heavy eye makeup. Its not bright or neon or garish. It’s rather the most subtly beautiful orange I have come across….very posh!

Texture: The texture is lightweight and extremely creamy – though not so creamy that would make lines on your lips when they are pursed together (like a YSL Volupte). The micro-sparkle does not make the product gritty. On the contrary, they lipstick is extremely smooth and hydrating. The hydration lasts for a couple of hours beyond its wear time. The formula is very comfortable to wear – one of the finest I have come across.

Texture is not glossy or shimmery – it just looks iridescent. Picks of the actual lipstick will give you an indication of what I am talking about.

Pigmentation: It is extremelypigmented – about 80-85% colour deposit in a single swipe and easy to build up to the colour in the tube in 1.5-2swipes. The colour is opaque in the first swipe itself and hides lip pigmentation.This fact is remarkable considering that the colour I chose was a more light orange and not a dark pink or red.

Lasting power:The product lasted about 4.5-5hours on me.It did leave a stain – a soft light one.

To sum this up for you:

Pros of Guerlain Rouge G – #41 Gipsy

1. A beautiful color– easy to wear
2. Lightweight creamytexture.
3. Excellent pigmentation – Opaque in a single swipe.
4. Extremely hydrating
5. Easy to apply from the tube
6. The lipstick applies smoothly – no tug or pull!
7. Does not settle into the fine lines of the lips
8. No feathering or bleeding
9. Iconic Luxe packaging
10. Packaging is convenient for applying and touch-ups
11. Compact comes with a magnetic closure.

Cons of Guerlain Rouge G – #41 Gipsy

1. You are paying a hefty price for the packaging. Which is great for the first buy but practical only if you get refills in the future.
2. Lets face it – it IS heavy!
3. I’ve not included the ingredients photo cause it’s a very light gold print on black background and doesn’t really show up in the pic. Even reading it is a pain.

IMBB Rating:

A definite5/5 product.

The product itself is amazing – definitely amongst my top 3. It pretty much clicks all the buttons – lightweight, hydrating, pigmented, decent lasting power,flattering colour, iridescent shine,

And the packaging? As I said earlier as well – I love it! So what if it’s heavy?It’s unique and has an identity of its own! Sit and stare for sometime – maybe I’ll get over it! Naah!

One day I want one with my name etched on it! So, what’s on your wish list??

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L’oreal Lucent MagiqueSkin Illuminating BB Cream

“AH” I can almost hear the collective groan of all you lovely ladies – yet another BB cream. We have seen a plethora of BB creams come and go –From high end Bobbi Brown to more budget friendly Garnier and Ponds. Most of them are tinted mositurizers, some are pretty much grease pots. The search for the HG BB cream continues. And yes, we have one more contender for the spot – Loreal Lucent Magique BB Cream – launched by Loreal in the Asia market – Yet to reach India. I picked this up sometime back in Bangkok but never did get around to reviewing it.

Before I started trying high-end brands, I was a Loreal addict – exclusively using their products with the exception of Chambor kaajal sticks. I bought makeup, skincare, daily face wash – everything from them. Some products became HG, some were just total blah. I had not experienced IMBB then, else could have saved some money.

So lets find out how this new BB cream fares…

The Product Details (from the website):

The first LOreal skin luminating BB cream with intuitive BB capsules that magically transforms skin for an enlivened lit-from-within complexion. The innovative self-evolving texture debuts as a moist milky-white cream, infused with intuitive BB capsules that encapsulates exclusive skin-perfecting pigments, upon blending with the skin. The fresh cream intuitively evolves into a naturally lucent skin tone coverage specific for asian skin tones.

- A new generation of BB end-look
- Skin is magically enlivened, transformed, diffusing a lit-from-within complexion
- Use as last step to skincare or layer before foundation.

Price:

INR 675 (post conversion) for 30ml product

Packaging:

The product comes in a standard white tube with a nice looking golden-bronze cap. Looks really nice – that’s probably what caught my attention.

The tube comes packaged in a cardboard outer cover.

My experience with L’oreal Lucent MagiqueSkin Illuminating BB Cream

Color: Unlike other BB creams – this one is white in colour. Yes, you read that write – “white”. There are no shades to chose from, so no testing whether there is shade match. Nothing.

Texture: The texture is more like a milky paste. The texture is difficult to blend because it starts becoming dry fairly quickly. Over time, the product has become drier in the tube – Im talking 4-5months, not years.

Visibility on Skin: The colour goes stark white on application on the skin. It makes the skin look paisley instead of feeling illuminated. Makes you look like a ghost. You have to keep blending – which itself is a little difficult with the product’s consistency. However, blending does make it settle alttle but not enough to make the white cask go away.

The only good thing about the product seems to be the matte finish it provides to the face. However, this means that you are unable to apply a darker compact to colour correct – because your face is already too matte!The face pics will show you the white cask it creates.

The face pics will show you the white cask it creates.

Coverage: Sheer – does not cover blemishes or pigmentation. Can be used under the foundation (as mentioned in the product description) but I kind of feel that it totally beats the purpose of using a BB cream.

Lasting power:The product lasts about 4-4.5hours on my oily skin.

To sum this up for you:

Pros of L’oreal Lucent MagiqueSkin Illuminating BB Cream

1. Matte finish
2. Decent packaging
3. Did not break me out
4. Does not accentuate pores
5. Did not break me out
6. Has SPF 20 PA+++

`
Cons of L’oreal Lucent MagiqueSkin Illuminating BB Cream

1. Difficult to blend
2. Create a white cask on the face.
3. Available only in 1 colour – white
4. Over a period of 5 months, the cream became drier in the tube.

IMBB Rating:

Yes, a 2/5 product.

The product did not excite me so wasn’t reviewed till now. However, in view of the fact that it has been flooded in the Asian market and you may be tempted to try it – head’s up – it ain’t worth it!! So another BB cream joins the others on the shelf while the search for the HG BB cream continues!

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Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder

Hello Lovely Ladies,

While reviewing the MAC Bronzing Powder, I did mention to you that since trying some bad products, I have found my Holy Grail products for Bronzing…introducing one of them to you hear – Guerlain’s Terracotta Bronzing Powder.

Before picking a Guerlain base (foundation, bronzers, etc) product, pls note one basic thumb rule, all their even numbered shades are pink toned and the odd numbered shades are slightly yellow toned, though, not as yellow toned as Bobbi Brown or Shiseido or MAC’s NC range.I am NC 30-35 and picked the shade #03.

While buying a bronzer, be clear what you need it for – overall sunkissed look, contouring cheeks, contouring cheeks and jaw-chin area – your shade requirement changes basis the need. My requirement was contouring the cheeks and jaw-chin area – so I wanted it to be only slightly darker than my skintone, else it would be a pain blending it out, especially in the chin-jawline area.

The Product Details (from the website):

A legendary product, Terracotta was the first Guerlain bronzing powder. Given the status of a magical beauty product, Terracotta echoes the soft touch of the first rays of sunlight. Light, translucent and luminous, Terracotta restores a natural healthy glow in a few strokes of a brush. Combining the sensuality of a natural tan with the voluptuousness of light textures and a velvety finish, Terracotta perfectly reproduces the golden and coppery shimmer of sunlight. Its formula, enriched with moisturising active ingredients, does not dry out the skin. It ensures long-lasting comfort. The skin glows with an instant natural tan that is both matte and luminous. Subtly moisturised, it radiates with beauty. Terracotta is available in eight shades for all skin tones and comes in a non-refillable powder case.

The cult powder has a unique fragrance. The top notes reveal a joyful and cheerful accord of bergamot and mandarin. The heart takes over with the sunny, feminine notes of gardenia, jasmine and ylang-ylang, which play off the lightness of honeysuckle. In the dry-down, vanilla, blended with woody notes, gives this legendary scent all of its character and mystery.

To give a sun-kissed look to the entire face, try the Guerlain secret: trace a “3″ on the skin. With the retractable Terracotta bronzing powder brush, apply your Terracotta powder by making a “3″ on each side of the face: from the forehead to the cheeks and then to the chin, following the facial contours towards the chin and then moving down along the neck.

Price:

$51 in US / In India @ INR 3225 for 10gms product

Packaging:

The packaging consists of a non-refillable compact with mirror. There is no applicator along with the product. It comes encased in a cardboard box. Refer pics pls.

The compact and the powder both bear the Guerlain logo of 2 entwined “Gs.”

My experience with Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder 03:

Color: The colour is about 2-3 shades darker than my skintone. Refer pics for the face swatch used for contouring. The colour does not have much grey in it. Bit of grey in the colour helps in creating the shadow of a hollow cheekbone but wouldn’t work so well for the sun-kissed bronzed effect. Specifically for cheekbone contouring, I could have gone a tad bit darker. However, a darker shade would not have worked as well for me for my jawline and chin contouring because It would have needed a whole lot of blending, else would have looked weird. This one, fits perfectly for the cheekbone-jawline-chin contouring.

There is no shimmer or glitter in the product, unlike the Guerlain 4 season’s bronzing powder.

Texture: The texture is extremelyfinely milled, smooth and easy to blend. It doesnot feel chalky, nor does it accentuate my pores. It come onto the brush with a single swipe and transfers to the skin without any patchiness. Works like a dream…

Pigmentation: The powder is extremely pigmented…the colour in the pan is what you get onto your skin (till you blend it) – refer pics for swatch on face with single swipe of the brush.

Lasting power:The product lasted about 8 hours on my oily skin – which I feel is great.

To sum this up for you:

Pros of Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder 03

1. Great product for contouring – cheek, jawline and chin.
2. Good pigmentation – a little goes a long way.
3. Lasts for about 8 hours
4. Finely milled smooth texture
5. Does not accentuate pores
6. Applies evenly and is a dream to blend
7. Did not break me out
8. Classy packaging

Cons of Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder 03

1. Lightly fragranced – I could tell only once I smelled the pan – for the review.Guerlain is a fragrance house so their makeup products do carry fragrance. Can be a bummer for someone allergic to perfume.
2. No applicator with the product. The Guerlain Bronzing brush costs another INR 3.5K!
3. Non-refillable compact – The reason I put it as a con is that for Guerlain products, we do pay for high-end packaging. The price would get more rationalized if the product is refillable – like their Meteorite Voyage compact.

IMBB Rating:

Yes, a 5/5 product.

Guerlain provide excellent quality of product and packaging. The Terracotta Bronzer was their first bronzer and still continues to be in the product line because of the love received by its patrons. Having used it, I can see why.

When you look at the contouring demonstration in the pics, pls note that I am not a Make Up artist – just someone who loves makeup.

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Make Up For Ever – Sculpting Blush #8 Satin Indian Pink

I reviewed the MUFE Sculpting Blush #8 earlier – and by now you know that I do not buy things in single – I always end up picking two because I can never decide!! This can be a bummer if the product I end up picking is a dud! But you know, some people never learn!

However, this product does not fall in the category of duds – you would figure that from my previous review. I wanted to bring forth one thought to all my readers cause it was enlightening for me when I first realized it. I used to think that if a brand is great, all its products will be great. That is not so. I also used to think that if the quality of one shade of a product is good; the quality would be conistent throught he line. This too is not the case. Reading International blogs opened my eyes to the fact that a Company can make inconsistent products within the same product line – MAC is a perfect example of this.

Coming back to the blush – MUFE, so far has shown me conistsency in their product range and quality. I have tried quite a few products (sadly, not their makeup bases) and been happy with all of them, including the product in hand.

PRODUCT (from the website):

The Sculpting Blush is an oil-free powder blush, which comes in a slim compact case. The wide range of shades available answers every need with seven cold shades and seven warm orangey shades.

What it is:
An ultra-fine powder blush that brightens and highlights the complexion.

What it does:
Enriched with luminous coated pigments, this blush enhances the cheeks with an impeccable hold. Its soft and silky texture glides on the skin for an even result while its long-lasting formula adds a healthy glow to the complexion.

Price –USD $25 / About Rs 1700 (post current conversions) for 5.5gms

To set context, MAC blushes are INR 1450 for 6gms. It’s a bit more expensive than MAC but I do feel that it is also better in quality than the MAC blushes.

Packaging:

The product comes packaged in a extremely sleek round plastic flip-open case. The case has a slit window to allow the colour of the blush to show – making it extremely easy to identify the colour without opeing or reading the flipside or remembering numbers (since the shade name is not mentioned anywhere except the MUFE website). The packaging is so sleek and minimalistic – however, not ideal for travel as it lacks a brush and a mirror.

Also, as mentioned by me in the previous review, the packaging is fragile and will not withstand a drop.

My experience with Make Up For Ever – Sculpting Blush #8 Satin Indian Pink:

Color – As mentioned by the MUFE website, the color is Satin Indian Pink. I find it to be a blue toned bright pink. I was attracted to the colour but was unsure whether I would actually be able to wear it and pull it off since it seemed too cool toned for my warm Indian skintone.

However, post trying it, I feel it is a perfect match for my mauve, fuschia and bright violet lippies like YSL Fuchsia in Rage, MAC Up the Amp, Estee Lauder Fuchsia Fever, etc. I am glad I picked this because I definitely didn’t have any pink in my stash which was this cool toned. It makes the violet toned pink lippies really stand out.

Texture – The texture is consistent with the previous blush I reviewed from MUFE – finely milled, smooth and extremely blendable. It comes off easily on the brush or finger and applies naturally and evenly, there is no patchiness.

Pigmentation – Immensely pigmented. One light sweep of the brush is all you need to give a natural flush. If you want to build it up to colour in pan, that too is possible by layering it.

Lasting power – The lasts for about 6.5 – 7 hours on my oily skin tone – which was slightly better than Satin Light Peach blush (reviewed earlier)

Visibility on Skintone – The colour is a little bold but can be worn subtly and still easily shows on my skin. It brightens the face and even though its cool toned, it does not look odd on my warm skin.

Enumerating the Pros of Make Up For Ever – Sculpting Blush #8 Satin Indian Pink:

1. Finely milled, smooth, easily blendable.
2. Super pigmented –a little goes a long way!
3. Fabulous for the summers or winters– goes very well fuchsia, cool toned pink, violets and mauves
4. Fairly long-lasting – even with my oily skin
5. The color works well for day and night both
6. The product has a nice satin finish – does not accentuate the pores
7. Did not break me out
8. Is unscented

And the Cons of Make Up For Ever – Sculpting Blush #8 Satin Indian Pink

1. Availability in India
2. Flimsy packaging
3. No mirror or applicator – even to help with touchups

IMBB Rating – 4.5 /5

Overall Thoughts:

I loved the fact that the product quality was consistent through the 2 products I reiewed here. I wish MUFE would work a bit on the product packaging to make It more sturdy and user friendly (by providing a mirror, if not an applicator).

So what is your favorite blush for the winter season. Do share through comments.

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