Empties

 Hello,

it is the last day of August and for me it is time to showcase my empties. I have quite a few make-up related items and I'm super happy to finally see some of them being empty and gone.

From Dusch das I have this Magnolia body wash which I had previously and really liked the Magnolia scent. It is creamy and floral and I enjoy it a lot, plus it is very inexpensive. I have another backup but I will wait a bit and use something else in between.

Next is another body was and it is from Balea and it is their Raspberry and Rose body wash. This is also my second bottle ad this scent is one of my favorites but unfortunately it was only a limited edition so I can't get my hands on it anymore. I predominately used this as my shampoo, it was able to remove all of the residue (balms, oils and all kinds of sprays that I use on my hair) and made my hair super soft and clean.

Last is Victoria's Secret Mango Temptation body spray. I purchased it a couple of years ago and back then I loved the scent now I think it is just okay. I sprayed myself and my room with it daily to be able to finish it up. The scent was nice, creamy Mango but it faded way too fast for my liking. I have another scent from them and when I will finished it up, I probably won't buy more from them. I now use perfumes instead of body sprays.

I manged to use up two Rimmel London Stay Matte lightweight, mattifying powders in Transparent. I would use one in the morning at home and the other one I would keep at work for touch ups. This powder is really nice for my oily complexion because it keeps me matte for longer plus it doesn't look all cake-y applied on top of my make-up after a couple of hours. I already unpacked two new ones and are ready to be used.

Trend it Up face contouring set in all matte 010 shade (swatches are here). First pan held contouring cool toned powder which was my favorite even though I figure it out that I don't find contouring my face an essential step and I could easily drop this habit but since I have the product... If I would get this palette again I would get it only because of this perfect for my skin tone shade. Second was a super warm bronzer that I didn't exactly love. It is gone and now I can move to the more enjoyable shades. The very last pan was filled with a slightly yellow toned powder and was meant to be used to lightly highlight the high points of your face but since it matched my skin tone completely I used it as a face powder and I was done with it pretty fast. This palette is done and gone, I feel happy to be finished but I won't repurchase it.

This Avon SuperExtend Lenghtening mascara in Brown/Black shade is still one of my favorites. Plastic wand brushes through my lashes and separates them while the little fibres adds to the length. Very nice and it can look a bit dramatic without looking like a fake lash look. At the moment I'm using the Essence mascara that I enjoy very much but this will definitely get repurchased.

The only remaining cream highlighter is this Catrice dewy finish strobe to glow highlighter in the shade Space Queen, Silver Rose (heavy swatch below). It looked amazing on me but cream products are so hard to finish up before they turn so I used it also on my chest and arms, I tried really hard to finish it up this year so now I can 'finally' use my powder highlighters.

The very last item is this amazing Avon Always on Point eye liner in the color Molten Rose. This is completely finished and I couldn't get any more for a little swatch at the end. It was supposed to be rose gold but to me it was more of a bronze shimmery shade. I loved it on its own, especially on my lover lash line or over some darker color on top of my upper lid. So fun and quick to do. At the moment I have nothing to replace it but I would like to have something similar so I just might go shopping...

Next week I will finally be on a vacation and fingers crossed the weather will stick so I will be able to suntan (I will take a lot of sun protection with me), swim and read lots of books. This years vacation will be different from last years but hopefully I will relax and have some good time despite everything that is going on.

Thank you for reading and have a nice day

Empties

Hello,

I have a new empties post. I am preparing for a new year and I would like to use up as many products as possible so next year I will start fresh, do any of you have the same felling? When you just want to get out of the way as many products before the change of year?

First is Le Petit Marseiliais body lotion with cotton and almond note in this beautiful bright red bottle. It reminds me of Poppies and my mom|s old favorite fragrance Kenzo Flower (anyone else?). It was really nice but I prefer the one in the pink/lavender bottle that I have finished earlier this year.

Next is a *miracle* product from REN and it is their flash rinse 1 minute facial. Basically it is a scrub that you apply on a clean and dry face (it has to be dry), it has little scrubby parts that do not feel too much and when it starts balling up I rinse my fingers with lukewarm water and go over my face again. Water turns it into an almost oily product and the scrubby particles dissolves. If my skin is sensitive (acne) it will burn a little (it claims to have water activated vitamin C in it, that is why it is so important that in the first step there is no water involved). My skin will not turn red, even when it feels extra sensitive and the next day my acne are reduced or smaller ones are gone, the texture is improved and the skin after using it a couple of times looks more even. This is gorgeous so I did not hesitate and purchased another tube even though it is expensive.

Next is my beloved Avon advance technique silky hair serum. This is my second used up bottle and third one is already in rotation. I love this oil in my hair not only because it smells nice but also because it makes them look less dry, basically silkier (as the name suggests). My preferred method is to use it on damp hair and in the morning when I wake up they are exceptionally smoother and silkier.

Caudalie vinosource overnight recovery oil was my last years black Friday deal. I also got the one in the green bottle and honestly I did not saw much improvement in my skin but this one in the red bottle (also cheaper) suited me better. It contains Grape seed, Jojoba, Sesame, pure Rose, Sunflower and Palmarose oils mixed together. Using it on a regular base I noticed that my skin looked more even (less red which I can thank Rose oil). I was using it with different serums and my skin improved a lot since last year but I think it was a combination of products. This one was nicer than the one in the green bottle but still it is a bit pricey for what it is. I already bought Jojoba (nourishing) and Rose (redness reducing) oils and just mix them myself since I notice the biggest difference while using these two oils.

These two are the last heroes from this amazing Essence line called prettifying lip oils first one is red SOS, my heart and the other one is actually pink named First, help Pinky (they were hard to tell apart even when they were full). I think I talked and raved about them quite a lot so I will try to be quick. They smell and taste lovely, a bit fruity, they are super glossy and nourishing. When my lips were cracked I applied this miracle oil a couple of times and it healed them within one hour. I think this is pretty good because I have plenty of lip balms and hardly any get that close at fixing my chapped skin. The only downfall with these is that they are pretty thin and disappear too fast. If Essence will ever bring them back I am buying more of them.

Next is also my very last of the Avon SuperShock gel eye pencil in Golden Fawn (both me and my sister owned three of each). This was a limited edition shade and what a pity. The gel in the name suggest that is very creamy and it is but it also dries and does not move around (amazing formula, they still have them but in more modest shades). This one was more of a taupe than gold and had that multi dimensional feel where it looked like you used more than one shade because it looked more complicated and the shimmer made it look sparkly and glowy. Such a good shade that could transform and elevate any look. I would get it again in a heart beat if I could.

Next is another discontinued item and even though  love it I will not be crying my eyes out because I have similar shades already in my collection. It is Catrice Ooops, nude did it again eye shadow, It is a bit hard to spot because it is so close to my skin tone but what is fantastic about it is the sateen finish and I mostly used it as a highlighter on my cheeks. It looked soooo good but I have another shade from Essence that is almost the same and plenty of highlighters to go through, sooo... I am glad that I was able to use up another item and I can not wait to start seeing dips in some of my other shadows.

The very last swatch belongs to Maybelline 24h color tattoo from creamy mattes in the shade Creamy Beige. I absolutely love it. I usually use much less and blend it out so I only get a light shadow on the eye plus this one does not budge. It has some build in primer that even my greasy lids could not get through. I would repurchase it again but I have another brown cream shadow that needs to be used (I was neglecting it because I was focusing so much on this Creamy Beige shade).


I did a little damage on the biggest, blackest Friday. I bought backups of REN mask seen above, backups of my favorite face powder and concealer, daily face moisturizer, new blush and I have also ordered two new fragrances and I can not wait for them to arrive. Nothing too crazy like I did last year.


Thank you for reading and have a nice day

Satinfaction

Hello,

another 'novelty' is coming your way. I completely forgot that I haven't post it jet, I kept it hidden from myself even though I use the actual product quite regularly.

Catrice longlasting sweatproof  eye shadow stix in Satinfaction is the product in question.
It comes in this handy stick format and there are plenty of shades to choose from, I received the lightest which is perfect to highlight my inner corners.

The shape is slightly different than what I'm used to it because it comes in this triangular shape which is supposed to make the application easier.

The color like I said is perfect to use in my inner corners but the pointy shape really doesn't make a difference, it could just as well be round. I also used it a couple of times on my lower lash line to just add some barely there sparkle, very subtle and pretty (in my opinion). I have used it all over my lid but that is a bit harder because the stick itself is a bit small and it takes time to cover the entire lid with it. It is creamy enough to stick to the skin but not creamy enough to apply it on the back of my hand and then I tried to swipe it with my finger and apply all over the lid with my finger. The best is to apply it straight from the stick.

The first swatch is a bit exaggerated, I applied a couple of layers to show the beautiful reflex and the light base color and the second one is just one swipe to show the intensity.

The color and shine aren't particularly cool or warm toned, very neutral and maybe slightly peachy toned which I think looks very nice and goes with a lot of skin undertones.
This product really grew on me and I use it very regularly (I can already see some dent in it and if I will continue with this pace I might even use it up this year) but I'm not too sure about other shades. I think the surface is a bit small and it takes quite some time to cover the entire lid evenly with it, I know I wouldn't have the time to do it. I think they should focus more into lighter - inner corner highlighters but then again you can always use them on the lash line to add some attention with a color but for that we have pencils which are thinner and more precise.

There are positive and negative sides attached to this small surface styled pen. I know I will use up this one but if I will get another shades to line my eyes with is still under a question mark.

Do you have any? What is your opinion on them? Are they worth it?




Thank you for reading and have a nice day

Big surprise

Hello,

I think I mentioned before that my sister is the best and she once again proved just how well she knows me with this huge gift from abroad. All of the items are from the brands which aren't available in my country so that makes it even better.

She took a trip to the The Body Shop and picked up this Wild Argan oil, the radiant oil for body and hair. I love oils and the scent on this one is amazing and I can't wait to start using it on my hair because the scent tends to stay longer if I spray my hair.

In the back is a lovely decorative box from Rituals with two mini perfumes. Voyage en Inde in a black bottle and Fleurs de L'Himalaya in a powdery pink. I will see how they perform on my skin and I will for sure take some more photos to show you how beautiful and simple the bottles are. BTW, this was gift with purchase so if you want to get it all you have to do is to shop at the Rituals...

Next is another Rituals item but this one is from Hammam Olive Secret line with refreshing eucalyptus and organic olive scent and it is a body wash but the lady in the store told my sister that because it contains clay a lot of people are using it as a face wash which is what I will try since I'm always trying to deep cleanse my face and what better way to do it than with clay, right?

I have never been in Kiko store and I almost said that I have nothing from them but now I remembered that my sister once gifted me a nail polish, so this item is not my first but it is my first skin care item from them. It is supposed to be micellar water for normal to dry skin and I will give it a go. There is never too much moisture, especially in Winter time.

In a round pot is a lovely light brown, Kiko eye shadow with some sparse shimmer in it. The shade is 122 Matte Beaver Brown and it looks like something I could wear without worrying about beeing too dark.

In a square pot is another Kiko single eye shadow but this one belongs to the wet and dry range, I got it in the shade 33 Pearly Golden Beige which is a beautiful yellow toned highlighter shade with tons of little shimmer. I love this type of colors for my inner corners and I can't leave it out but this shade has magnetic closure (I know this isn't anything new but this is my first and it feels more luxurious than it probably is).

The last item is from M.A.C. and it is their technakohl eye liner in the shade Raisinette which is a very dark brown and I think it will be a nice replacement for my black and grey pencils and it will look phenomenal with warmer toned shadows.

Whuh, that was a lot, right? It will take me a long time to properly test everything but it will be fun.



Thank you for reading and have a nice day

Catrice: Victorian Poetry, preview

Hello,

today I'm showing you another preview but this time from Catrice. Enjoy.

Simple Opulence. Magnificent decorations and detailed stucco ornaments are typical of the ornate, Victorian era. The Limited Edition "Victorian Poetry" by CATRICE awakens from November 2016 to January 2017 the desire for the splendor of the bygone era. Many fashion designers stage the luxurious elegance with slim-fitting, high collar frilly dresses new and combined to modern, slightly transparent fabrics. These collections were the inspiration for the Limited Edition, which is dominated by soft apricot, warm nude and grays, lilacs and berry tones. Plain Magnificence - by CATRICE.

Victorian Poetry by CATRICE - Eye Shadow Palette
Victorious Beauty. Six highly pigmented powder eye shadow with silky texture. Various Shades ensure that the range can be used for versatile eye make-ups. Available in C01 NostalCHIC.

Victorian Poetry by CATRICE - Satin Matte Lip Colour
Lip Lyric. Lasting Lipsticks with high opacity in dark berry and pink. The lips do not dry out, while the silky matte finish perfects any look. Available in C01 Berry British and C02  Poetic Pink.

Victorian Poetry by CATRICE - Satin Matte Nail Lacquer
Pretty Ornaments. Five nail polishes in trendy colors that inspire a silky matt effect. The special decoration of the bottle and the Christmas gift tags provide festive flair. Available in C01 Berry British, C02 Poetic Pink, C03 Apricot Epoch, C04 and C05 Noble Nude Royal LavendERA.

Victorian Poetry by CATRICE - Matt Powder Liner
Grey smokiness. The matte gray Powder Eye trumps with loose pigments. For a simple job of fine sponge applicator ensures. Smokey Cat Eyes are guaranteed. Available in C01 AristoMATTic.

Victorian Poetry by CATRICE - highlighting Pebbles
Ray of Light. Fine Shimmer Pebbles of different sizes and different shades give a blurred complexion. For the radiant Glow provide light reflecting pigments. Available in C01 Queen Victoria Is Amused.

Victorian Poetry by CATRICE - Beauty Purse
Royal Highness. Ideal for, on the go 'is the small purse - so are the main Beauty & Lifestyle Accessories always there. With high quality metal closure and a unique look absolutely indispensable.

Catrice spoils us jet again. The palette design looks lovely but I'm not totally sold on the shades, lipsticks looks very festive but I doubt I would wear them enough so probably I will pass them but with nail polishes the story is totally different. They did something special with the bottles but how practical will they be to store? No matter, the colors appeal to me and I just might pick all five shades. Powder liner is not something I'm interested or the bag (I have enough make-up bags) but the highlighting pebbles caught my eye. On some photos it looks quite peachy and I wonder if us fair girls could use it as a light blush, that is something I would be interested in.

So, I can't wait to see this LE in stores, what about you?

Thank you for reading and have a nice day

Essence: The little x-mas factory, preview

Hello,

Dear Santa! essence has received all Christmas wish lists and Santa’s hardworking elves are doing everything in their power to prepare the perfect surprise. The result: the new trend edition “the little x-mas factory”, which will be available in stores from November to December 2016 to make all your beauty dreams come true. Classical colors like gold or pine green are combined with cool pink. The absolute X-MUSTS are the eye shadow palette, two mini hand creams with Christmassy fragrances and the “shimmering stars”. Season’s greetings from essence!

essence the little x-mas factory – eyeshadow palette

Melting away! The eyeshadow palette with five shimmering colors creates stunning eye make-up styles – and the pressing pattern on the texture is sure to make your heart melt, too. Available in 01 north pole express delivery.

essence the little x-mas factory – liquid gold eyeliner


Golden times. The liquid eyeliner with a long applicator creates golden eyeliner styles for a glamorous look. Available in 01 ho-ho-ho.

I wonder what kind of tip it has and how yellow it will be, I guess we will have to wait a little.

essence the little x-mas factory – liptint

Under the mistletoe! The liptint stains the lips in a gorgeous bright pink that is sure to last. Available in 01 all i want for x-mas is you.

essence the little x-mas factory – lipbalm

Happy holiday! The lipbalm in a small tub provides the lips with moisture and a hint of color in subtle rosé. Available in 01 merry kissmas.

essence the little x-mas factory – 2 in 1 core concealer

Elfin beauty! An elf-like complexion is not a problem thanks to the concealer - the transparent core evens out irregularities while the nude texture covers up impurities of the skin. Available in 01 elf-approved!.

essence the little x-mas factory – contouring palette

Fabulous face. The palette contains a dark color for shading and a highlighter shade to accentuate the features. With a cute gift-bow pattern on the surface of the texture. Available in 01 elf yourself!.

essence the little x-mas factory – shimmering stars

Little stars! The small, shimmering stars in highlighter and bronzer shades give the face a gorgeous glow. Available in 01 please, hurry down the chimney!.

essence the little x-mas factory – nail polish

Christmas colors. Gold with a foil finish, white with a light shimmer as well as pink and pine green without an effect are Santa’s favorites. Available in 01 i still believe in santa claus, 02 let´s take an elfie, 03 santa baby and 04 meet me under the mistletoe.

essence the little x-mas factory – nail jewelry sticker

Bling-bling! The stickers create a golden net on the surface of the nails to turn them into true gems! Available in 01 santa´s back in town.

essence the little x-mas factory – super rich mini hand cream
Delicious care. The two hand creams with a vanilla and cookie fragrance come in a practical mini-size to pamper the hands of all hardworking Christmas helpers. Available in 01 holiday hugs… and 02 …and mistletoe kisses.

essence the little x-mas factory – scented hair brush

Holiday hair! This small hairbrush with a subtle Christmas scent gives the hair a gorgeous shine. Available in 01 dear santa, it wasn´t me!. 

essence the little x-mas factory – eau de toilette

Smells like x-mas. The warm, sweet fragrance is reminiscent of the wintery atmosphere of cozy, beautifully decorated Christmas markets. Chocolate-Cranberry and nectarine in the top note, freesia and peonies in the middle note and caramel, vanilla and tonka bean in the base note are the characteristic ingredients of this eau de toilette. Available in 30ml, 01 it´s magic.

All in all, I think this is a lovely all round collection with a lot of special products. I will keep my eyes open for the eye shadow palette (not that I need more), lip tint, contouring palette, even though it is probably more of a bronzer. Shimmering stars are such an eye catchers and I wonder what a chocolate - cranberry and nectarine, mixed together would smell like. 

Thank you for reading and have a nice day

Cool Down

Hello,

this year I decided to go through my make-up stash and rediscover some forgotten gems. I have to say I have a lot of nice things and I enjoy shaking up my routine and try something new or at least something I haven't wear in a while.

Essence Long lasting eye pencil in the shade Cool Down

I bought Essence Long lasting eye pencil in the shade Cool Down two years ago. As mentioned I started using it again this year and I remembered that I truly adore it. The only reason I can think of why I put it aside is the bright color. The texture is creamy and very easy to apply. I like to prep my lids with an eye shadow base even if I'm wearing only liner so it doesn't smudge. This little fella stays put on my lid the entire day. After I swatched it on the back of my hand I had to rub it really hard and it still took a couple of minutes to remove it completely. This really is long lasting formula suited even for oily lids.

Essence Long lasting eye pencil in the shade Cool Down

If I don't feel like wearing such a bold color that day I put dark grey pencil on top and it makes it darker, almost navy blue and that makes it more wearable, less obvious.
I know I will buy some more shades from this line because the formula is fantastic, I'm thinking of getting the grey and the brown ones. I wish they would make navy blue version but if they don't I will repurchase this shade for sure.


Thank you for reading and have a nice day

Avon purchase

Hello,

my much anticipated Avon package arrived. More lip products, who would of thought. I also snatched Avon's version of the in shower lotion which I will start using today. There is also Always on Point eye liner and it is part of their new release. It the collection there are three new shades and I choose only one. The shade looks unusual and I'm curious how this self sharpening packaging works. I will report about them soon.

Thank you for reading and have a nice day