Category Archives: Makeup Base

Best Bridal Foundations in India, Prices, Buy Online

Best Bridal Foundations in India, Prices, Buy Online

Best Bridal Foundations in India, Prices, Buy Online

By Sanchita

Foundation is the most important base for bridal makeup and that is why you have to be extremely careful while choosing a bridal foundation for yourself. A bridal foundation must be medium to high coverage, no flashbacks and must not oxidize, melt or separate along with a long lasting formula. Also, the foundation should be suitable to your skin type, must no look too dewy or too matte and lastly a good shade range to choose from. Although the criterion look huge, we have narrowed down the best bridal foundations in India in both affordable/budget friendly and high end range.

AFFORDABLE/BUDGET FRIENDLY

1. Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation – Price Rs. 550 (BUY HERE)

Maybelline New York Fit Me Matte + Poreless Foundation need no introduction. It is, by far, one of the best foundations in the drugstore category, not only in India but all over the world. Maybelline recently added few more shades and right now the range has around 14 shades to choose from. The foundation has a natural matte finish that adds a certain glow to the skin. It has no SPF and thus never flashbacks in pictures. It contains blurring micro powders that erase pores and absorb oil that gives a natural, seamless finish. It will be suitable for every skin type as well. The coverage is medium to buildable.

2. PAC HD Liquid Foundation – Price Rs. 795 (BUY HERE)

PAC HD Liquid Foundation is another liquid foundation with medium to full coverage and has the proper HD finish with an affordable price tag. The foundation range has 19shades including both cool and warm undertones. It gives you an amazing flawless look and yet looks natural. The foundation never flash-backs and can be used by all skin types. It is extremely long lasting, doesn’t oxidize and thus a perfect pick for the bridal foundation.

3. NYX Professional Makeup Stay Matte But Not Flat Liquid Foundation – Price Rs. 900 (BUY HERE)

Stay Matte But Not Flat Liquid Foundation from NYX is a personal favourite and I love how the foundation stays matte yet looks natural on the skin. It gives medium to full coverage and blends on the skin like a dream. This is a perfect bridal foundation for normal to oily skin, if you are getting married in summer. The formula is oil-free and water-based formula and it doesn’t leave behind any whitish cast on the skin. There are 11 shades to choose from.

4. Kryolan TV Paint Stick – Price Rs. 1200 (BUY HERE) Review HERE

Kryolan TV Paint Stick comes in a stick packaging and is available in 250 shades! The product is versatile and can be used as foundation, contour, color corrector, and concealer. It thick but blends into the skin really easily and gives a dewy finish to the skin. It has full coverage and best used for bridal purposes. The foundation doesn’t oxidize at all and photographs really well. The staying power is around 7-8hours and the foundation is a complete value for money.

5. L.A Girl Pro Coverage Illuminating Liquid Foundation – Price Rs. 1250 (BUY HERE)

This foundation is available in 16 shades and the shade card is extremely versatile and impressive. It has a nice texture that blends like a dream and gives smooth illumination look. It is extremely light weight in the skin and is suitable for all skin types. The formula is paraben free formula with added anti-oxidants helps hydrate and improve the skin’s appearance. It gives medium to full coverage and a great foundation for brides. It leaves no whitish cast in photos as well.

6. L’Oreal Paris Infallible 24h Foundation – Price Rs. 1400 (BUY HERE) Review HERE

L’Oreal Paris Infallible 24h Foundation is a great foundation for oily skin. It has 11 shades with adequate warm and cool tones. The texture is nice to work and it is advisable by her to blend in with a damp brush or sponge. It feels completely matte on the skin; there is no shininess or dewiness with it. It gives a nice medium to heavy coverage without blocking the pores at all. It has SPF 18 but it doesn’t give any whitish cast and also photographs well.

HIGH END

7. MAC Studio Fix Fluid Foundation – Price Rs. 2700 (BUY HERE)

The iconic foundation of all times is MAC Studio Fix Fluid. MAC can provide you the best shade card and seldom people go wrong with the shades. The foundation has light weight silky texture, blends really smoothly and has a very good coverage. It also has certain special skin-conditioning ingredients yet looks completely matte. It absorbs and disperses oil and gives an airbrushes look to the skin. The wear time long and considered the best foundation for brides. If you have dry skin, you can also try out the MAC Mineralize Moisture Foundation or MAC Face and Body

8. Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay In Place Foundation – Price Rs. 3600 (BUY HERE)

Estée Lauder Double Wear Stay In Place Foundation comes in 30 shades and has a petite packaging. It has a medium consistency liquid texture that blends generously and then sets into a matte finish. Despite having an SPF it photographs really well and hence, will work great for brides. It stays on the face for around 8-9hours without melting down or oxidizing. It gives a medium to buildable coverage and feels almost weightless. If you are willing to splurge for your wedding foundation, this is a great pick.

9. Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick – Price Rs. 4100 (BUY HERE)

Apart from MAC, Bobbi Brown is another brand for amazing base products like foundation and concealers. Their finish is seamless and looks just like natural skin. A bridal foundation should be better be creamy so that it lasts long. The Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick available in 24shades that blends into the skin and gives a medium to full coverage. The foundation is creamy yet weightless texture which applies effortlessly. It is formulated with an innovative blend of emollients-like olive extracts and shea butter-help to moisturize skin and light diffusing powders and oil-controlling minerals help perfect the appearance of skin while reducing shine. Thus, it has every property a bride needs on her D-Day.

10. Smashbox Studio Skin 15 Hour Wear Hydrating Foundation – Price Rs. 3300 (BUY HERE)

This foundation is available in 20 shades and gives a Medium-to- full buildable coverage with a natural matte finish. However, it has hydrating and nourishing ingredients and blends effortlessly on the skin. It helps to blur imperfections with light-diffusing spheres and it also sweat-resistant and transfer-proof. It will suit all skin types and stays on the skin for more than 10 hrs. Therefore, it is a good pick for the brides.

Editor’s Note: That’s a fabulous list Sanchita, you have covered all medium to full coverage foundations here which photograph well and are perfect for brides. I would only like to add one, Milani Conceal + Perfect 2 in 1 Foundation + Concealer, even that is super high coverage and good for brides.

Which is your favourite foundation? Definitely get 1-2 of these for your wedding/pre-wedding functions/bridal trousseau

MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation NC 41 Review

MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation NC 41 Review

By Linda

Hello Ladies,

Again I’m back with another review of a MAC product that is a highly recommended and belongs to the Studio range of collections. The sales assistant helped me out in picking the closest shade[NC 41] for my yellow toned medium to fair skin.I would recommend you to first try a suitable shade yourself before purchasing since these are high end products with varieties of shades and what you buy should be worth the money . I read many good reviews of this product due to its dual performance as a foundation plus powder hence made up mind that I’m definitely purchasing this product.

What MAC Claims: A one step powder and foundation that gives skin a smooth, flawless, all matte finish with medium to full coverage. Long-wearing, velvety texture allows skin to breathe.

Packaging

Packaging consists of a classic MAC black compact case which has a built in mirror, the compressed product (in the mid section) and a third compartment where a sponge applicator is stored. A convenient packaging which can be carried easily where ever you go. What I like about the packaging is the separate compartment for the sponge applicator [please excuse my sponge since I haven’t washed it since I purchased this product ,Yes bad me !!] .In most of the compacts, the applicator is kept on top of product due to which the excess product is picked by the applicator when not in use hence forth the waste of product.

Cost: 2290 INR for 15 g

My take on MAC Studio Fix Powder plus Foundation [Shade NC 41]

As I applied this product on my well cleansed and moisturized skin, the first thing I noticed was my pores vanished in seconds. The powder is fine and so soft that it blends easily into the skin. The biggest bonus in this product is the sponge applicator. I found the applicator to be of a very good quality .I have been using this product for more than a year and the sponge is still intact. In fact I use this sponge for blending my other liquid foundation and it gives me a flawless finish.

On application of this product the oiliness on my skin did vanish giving a medium coverage to my skin. It does not seem to look cakey at all and even does not highlight the dry patches on my skin. The product lasts for around 5-6 hours on my combination skin. After which I do a touch up on my T zone. What I noticed is, it doesn’t completely cover the dark spots and minor blemishes and dark circles [hence medium coverage].

I have used this product alone most of the time, but somehow I feel a liquid foundation would help in giving full coverage along with a concealer and a flawless finish .As I mentioned earlier it doesn’t give a cakey look even after layering several products on the skin and it even does not flash on photographs. It just feels like a second skin.

A drawback I noticed was when you use a sponge applicator, it picks up more product than usual hence you tend to finish your product sooner. So in that case a blending brush is always helpful.

The product I’ve been using is almost over but it hasn’t broken as yet since it is fine milled and compressed well into the container. Hence no product wasted.

TIP: Dampen the sponge applicator a little with water and apply the product on to your skin. The product lasts on skin for a considerable longer time than usual and controls oiliness too. [Based on personal experience].

Definitely this is a multipurpose product that can be used alone or along with a liquid foundation which gives a flawless finish.

Pros:

  • Diminishes pores within seconds
  • Doesn’t give a cakey look
  • Photo friendly
  • Controls oiliness giving a matte finish
  • Can be used alone or along with a liquid foundations
  • Highly recommended for oily skin
  • Travel friendly light weight packaging
  • Long-lasting product

Cons:

  • Heavy on pockets
  • Medium coverage
  • Works better with liquid foundation

Rating: 4.5/5

Would I recommend MAC Studio Fix Powder plus Foundation? Yes definitely I would recommend since it’s a multipurpose product.

Editor’s Note: I would like to add one thing here, it broke one of my friend really bad every time she used it. So I would recommend trying it out first 2-3 times at the stores and see if it suits your skin, before investing in it. If it works for your skin, then it is indeed a great powder with very good coverage.

Have you tried the MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation?

Make Up For Ever Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primer Review, Swatches

Make Up For Ever Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primer Review, Swatches

Hi guys,

I have been trying out two new Make Up For Ever Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primers since quite a few days now and here are my thoughts on it..

What the Company claims: 

What it is: A makeup primer that assists with balancing the skin’s texture and tone for smoother, more even, and longer-lasting makeup wear.

What it does: Prep skin for your makeup routine with Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primers, and address your skin concerns with this innovative makeup primer. Perfect for balancing skin and achieving an ideal makeup result, it’s lightweight and creamy, leaving a more evenly-toned appearance, and increases foundation’s hold. This primer for all skintones leaves makeup looking fresh for hours while it hydrates, firms, and smooths the look of the skin.

Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primer is available in 10 formulas to target every texture and tone concern:

Texture: 
Mattifying Primer reduces shine for oily skin.
Smoothing Primer evens the skin’s texture.
Hydrating Primer preps normal skin and restores balance.
Nourishing Primer moisturizes and comforts.
Redness Correcting Primer neutralizes.

Tone: 
Radiant Primer Blue adds radiance to light skin.
Radiant Primer Pink adds radiance to light to medium skin.
Radiant Primer Yellow adds radiance to light to medium skin.
Radiant Primer Peach adds radiance to medium to tan skin.
Radiant Primer Caramel adds radiance to dark skin.

If you’re not sure where to start, try the Smoothing and Hydrating Primers.

“Like painters, who need a perfectly smooth, even-colored, and flawless canvas, makeup artists require even-toned and smooth skin for an optimal and professional makeup result.”—Dany Sanz, MAKE UP FOR EVER Founder and Creative Director

MAKE UP FOR EVER’S exclusive Equalizer Technology features Acti Tensor 3D, Hyaluronic Acid, and Regeactive, which help to hydrate, firm, and smooth the skin to create the perfect makeup canvas.

MRP: Rs.3300/- for 30ml

Suggested Usage:
-Before applying makeup to skin, dab a quarter size amount with fingertips or sponge in a downward motion.
-Customize your results by mixing texture and tone formulas.
-Combine redness correcting or radiant primers before mattifying or smoothing, or you hydrating or smoothing primers can be combined before redness correcting or radiant primers.
-Finish with your favorite foundation.

I have the Smoothing one and the Radiant Blue one. It comes in a small handy tube packaging with a nozzle dispensor which dispenses just the right amount of product.

The Smoothing one is tinted and is more silicony and thick while the Radiant Blue one has a blue tint of course, but is a little more liquidy and runny.

The Radiant Blue one is made in France while the Smoothing one is made in Japan, as you can see here. I believe they have strict quality control standards.

Both are quite easy to apply and use and give a nice, smooth canvas for the foundation to work on. The Radiant Blue one gives a soft blue tint which makes the skin looks brighter with the foundation too. While the Smoothing one, completely smoothes out the pores and fine lines. Even on the hand swatch when blended the Smoothing one, it gave a flawless look and blurred out all the fine lines.

Left- Smoothing, Right- Radiant Blue
Left- Smoothing, Right- Radiant Blue (Blended)

If you have a lot of pores and fine lines on the face, I would definitely suggest the Smoothing one. If you have very oily skin, then the Mattifying one is perfect for you and Hydrating one is amazing for dry skin. I have seen a lot of my favourite YouTubers who have dry skin, use and love the Hydrating one.

If I have to pick one from the two, I like the Smoothing one a little more for the flawless finish it gives to my skin.

These are a little expensive but you just need a little bit for each use. And Make Up For Ever products do come with a heavy price tag, but also offers great quality.

I definitely recommend these! If you are not into color correcting, then Smoothing/Mattifying/Hydrating ones are worth a try!

Sadly MUFE is only available at Sephora currently, so you can only get it in Delhi, Mumbai & Bangalore or you can pick them up when you are travelling.

Have you tried the new MUFE Step 1 Skin Equalizers yet?

P.S: PR Samples. Honest Review

Colorbar Perfect Match Foundation Review, Swatches

Colorbar Perfect Match Foundation Review, Swatches

By Pallavi

Hello Girlies,

I was in hunt of everyday foundation. But i wanted something lighter not those heavier cakey foundations. Those heavier cakey foundations are meant for parties and night outs, not for daily wear especially in mornings. Now, most of you will recommend BB and CC creams for this. But sadly i have used a number of BB and CC creams but none stood as per my expectations. So, i resorted to foundations. But i was looking for foundations which could serve as a daily wear.

Thus, i went to my nearest store and the SA there recommends me this foundation from the house of Colorbar. The SA swatched this one on my hand and i liked it’s finish. Thus, without further adieu i bought this.

So, here is the Colorbar Perfect Match Foundation with UV Filters for all you ladies. Read along to know if it’s worth your skin or not.

Company Claims:

  • A fluid foundation that adapts itself to the color of the skin.
  • Moisturizing and filling benefits
  • UV filters for sun protection
  • Lightweight, Oil Free
  • Dermatologically tested
  • Available in 3 shades

Shades Available:

  • Classic Ivory
  • Nude Beige
  • Warm Beige

Price: Rs.725 for 30ml

Ingredients:

My experience with Colorbar Perfect Match Foundation with UV Filters

This foundation comes in a rectangular medium sized silver carton box. The packaging looks very chic and shining. It has entire product details inscribed on it.

Inside the silver box there is a sleek skin colour tube. The tube has a very unique and appealing shape. The bottom of the tube which is the cap is silver in colour. The cap is screw cap which needs to be twisted to bring out the product. Inside the tube there is a thin nozzle out of which the product comes out. Once when you have twisted the cap you need to press the tube slightly to bring the product out. A very little product comes out.

This is the medium shade ‘Nude Beige’. The foundation is light cream in colour. It has a thick consistency. You need to take the product in a little quantity because after blending too the product has a yellowish cast. You need to further blend the product to minimize the yellowish cast. So, words of caution take a little product only. This will make your swatch easier.

Now, i apply the foundation in dots on face. You need to move the fingers to blend the product completely. The product has UV filters which will protect you from sun exposure. The finish is very natural. It does not feel heavier on skin. It has slight illuminating particles. The product is perfect for daily wear foundation and gives medium coverage.

Pros of Colorbar Perfect Match Foundation with UV Filters:

  • Trustworthy brand
  • Widely available
  • Lasts pretty long
  • Little product goes a long way
  • Very natural finish
  • Has UV filters
  • Does not feel heavy on skin
  • Survives entire day

Cons of Colorbar Perfect Match Foundation with UV Filters:

  • Only 3 shades available
  • Needs a lot of blending

Rating :

Quality : 4/5
Value or money : 3/5
Availability : 4.5/5

Overall Rating : 4/5

Editor’s Note: I think it’s a nice everyday option, especially for office wear, also the fact that the shade adapts to your skin is good. But minimum 5-6 shades would have been a much better option. Nice review Pallavi 🙂

Have you tried the Colorbar Perfect Match Foundation yet?

Lotus Herbals Xpress Glow 10 in 1 Daily Beauty Creme SPF 25 Review, Swatches, FOTD

Lotus Herbals Xpress Glow 10 in 1 Daily Beauty Creme SPF 25 Review, Swatches, FOTD

What the Company claims: It is the ultimate hydrating treatment based crème with gives a semi matte flawless finish and keeps skin hydrated for long. 10 benefits * Covers Pimples spot * Hides imperfections * Gives even tone * No clogging of Pores * Covers blemishes and dark spots * Instant beautifier * Buildable coverage * Brightening primer * Moisturizes and Hydrates * SPF 25

MRP: Rs.299/- for 30g

Shades Available: 2

  • Royal Pearl–  Fair to Medium
  • Bright Angel– Medium to Dark

It comes in this pink tube packaging with silver cap and has a nozzle dispensor. The packaging is quite bright and nice, convenient to use and travel friendly.

I have the shade Bright Angel which is the one for medium skin tones. It is nothing but a tinted moisturizer i.e. the blend of skincare plus some makeup. And has SPF25 too.

It is quite rich and needs to be set with a compact powder. Skin gets oily within an hour or so, I would not recommend it for oily skin or for use in summers.

Coverage is ok, it only evens out the skin tone and reduces the redness. It does brighten the skin a but, but does not cover dark circles or any acne spots. It stays for a good 5-6 hours but does need touch up with a compact powder. But it sure is quite moisturizing and skin doesn’t feel tight even in winters for a good few hours.

As you can see in my ‘Before-After’ pic here, it only evened out the skin and brightened it a bit, did not cover any marks or dark circles. This is just using the cream and I haven’t use any compact or anything else here.

Before – After

Only 2 shades are available in this, but thankfully both are warm and yellow and will work for majority skin tones. It does oxidize a bit on the face after 2-3 hours, that might be coz of the sunscreen.

It has licorice and aloe vera extracts. Licorice is anti-inflammatory, helps in reducing redness of the skin, helps absorb ingredients better and also helps in lightening the skin. Aloe vera of course has numerous benefits, key being hydrating, moisturizing, anti-bacterial. Not a fan of licorice coz of it lightening the skin.

Pricing is ok, it’s the same as other BB/CC creams in the market and almost the same qty. Only active ingredients are mentioned on the pack, they should have mentioned a list of all ingredients for people to know what exact skincare benefit they are getting. Except licorice and aloe vera, nothing has been mentioned.

Overall I would say, if you do not have problematic skin and only need something for daily use which can provide sun protection and even out skin tone, you can try this out.

Rating:

Quality: 3.25/5
Value for money : 3.5/5
Availability: 3/5

Overall rating: 3.25/5

Have you checked out the new Lotus Herbals Xpress Glow 10 in 1 Daily Beauty Creme SPF 25 yet?

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review

Grid Solution CC Cushion SPF 50 PA+++ Review & Giveaway

Grid Solution CC Cushion SPF 50 PA+++ Review & Giveaway

Hi guys,

I had received this Grid Solution CC Cushion quite some time ago but did not get the time to use it thoroughly for review and hence the delay in the review. Now that I have used it enough, here is the review.

What the Company claims: Grid solution is an exciting and revolutionary all in one cc cushion.That does not require the use for foundation, primer or powder setting, grid solution provides all this in one application.
Our new technology allows your skin to glow and breath and provides coverage to all skin complexions from light, medium to tanned skin,
Containing superior antioxidant and sun protection against UVA and UVB of SPF 50 PA +++,
Grid solution is also 100% waterproof, anti allergy, spots and blackheads and provides instant hydration.
This formula fills in micro lines and ensures a smooth and even appearance. and the non-absorbing puff applicator cools and soothes the skin for a refreshing finish every time.

Ingredients:

MRP: $31 for 13g (Buy HERE)

It is made in Korea and comes in this black round packaging. I really liked the packaging, it is sturdy and smooth and the quality is good, it is not like those cheap plastic outer we usually see. Also it is travel friendly. It comes with a mirror, sponge and the cushion. The concept is quite similar to the Lancome Miracle Cushion but that of course has many shades and a bit higher coverage.

The top compartment has the sponge with a grip hold on the top. The white compartment to house the sponge has enough distance between the sponge and there is a tiny plastic separator so the compartment will never touch the cushion.

The cushion was covered with a plastic wrap and on lifting it, it was perfect and neat. No mess up there. You get the product on pressing the sponge on the cushion 1-2 times, I don’t cover my entire sponge with the product but just one side as I won’t be going all over the face at once but build it slowly. I need to go about pressing 2-3 times since I just use one side and it is enough to cover my entire face.

The liquid is quite thin and comes out easily on the sponge, also it blends seamlessly on the face. Always go pat pat and never drag coz dragging will only remove the product. It is quite hydrating and takes care of dry patches also anywhere on the skin, does not accentuate them at all.

But it is slightly rich and gives that shine on the face, hence needs a compact powder on the top or else you might end up looking like an oil slick.

The best part about this cushion is the SPF, it has amazing sun protection with an high PA, you will not need any separate sunscreen when using this. Coming to the disadvantage, it is only available in one shade. The shade appeared a bit lighter to me on swatching but it oxidized over the day and by the time I removed it, my normal skin was lighter and this was darker.

It claims to be 100% water proof, so you can even use it while swimming for sun protection. Also they claim it acts as a primer and fills in lines giving the skin a smoother appearance. It does to certain extent, have to agree.

Also if you read the ingredients above, it has olive oil and aloe vera extracts which makes it rich and moisturising plus rose, jasmine, daffodil, clover, honeysuckle and other fruit and flower extracts. So it is skin care + sunscreen + some coverage.

Fortunately the shade more or less works for me, but I do need a compact on the top. I suggest using your shade of foundation or compact or a BB cream on top of it to match your skin tone. Also the coverage is very light, so you would need a separate concealer for your problem areas.

I have worn only the Grid Solution CC Cushion here for my base and nothing else. See the shine on the face, definitely needs a compact on top. Also the coverage is very low, so it only evens out the skin tones, but would not hide scars or dark circles.

I also got the five face masks shown above with the Cushion, they are so amazing! I tried the Milk one and loved my skin post the mask.

I am giving away one Grid Solution CC Cushion and these 5 face masks to one lucky winner. All the rules in the Rafflecopter widget below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The giveaway starts today and ends after 10 days on 24th October, 2015. It is open internationally.

Good Luck 🙂

L’Oreal Paris Mat Magique Compact Powder Review, Swatches, FOTD

L’Oreal Paris Mat Magique Compact Powder Review, Swatches, FOTD

Hi guys,

L’Oreal Paris India is on a roll and launching a lot of new products, the latest being the Mat Magique Compact Powder. Just 2 months ago they launched the Infallible range which had the Infallible 24H Powder Foundation too. And now a new range of compact powders 😀 Well, we are not complaining 😉

What the Company claims: With 5 shades, specially created to suit Indian skin tones, Mat Magique compact blends smoothly into your skin to give an impeccable coverage without looking cakey. At a special price point of just Rs. 399, L’Oréal Paris Mat Magique compact is easy to apply and frees you from touch ups, every time you decide to go out. The new compact from L’Oréal Paris is also enriched with SPF 34 PA+++ to help protect your skin from the sun and make it look blemish free, healthy and radiant all day long.

INNOVATIONS & INGREDIENTS
Mat Magique compact – It’s the Matte that does it all! Infused with Volcanic Perlite Minerals Mat Magique compact lets you stay shine-free, worry-free, and flawless for 12 hours.

MRP: Rs.399/- for 6g

Ingredients:

Shades Available: 5

  • G1 Vanilla Ivory
  • G2 Golden Ivory
  • G7 Golden Amber
  • N2 Nude Vanilla
  • N6 Nude Honey

More details HERE

I have the shades G2 Golden Ivory and N6 Nude Honey which are like the closest match for me, G7 Golden Amber is the darkest shade and N2 Nude Vanilla is the lightest.

At first, I love the transparent and pink round packaging, it looks pretty on your table or in your bag too. The bottom base is also transparent and you have the mirror and a round, white thick sponge in the lower compartment. Now the mirror being in the lower compartment and the product on upper, it would be a bit of a struggle to take the sponge and go up and down again and again. Outside India, it had a rectangular packaging with sponge and powder on each side and mirror on the front.

L- Golden Ivory, R- Nude Honey

I am glad that the shades are all warm and suitable for Indian skin tones! Most of the products including the previous Infallible 24H Powder Foundation were a bit light and gave a strong whitish cast. Thankfully, these ones match Indian skin tones perfectly and do not look white or ghastly at all.

L- Golden Ivory, R- Nude Honey

And SPF34 PA+++ is the highest protection I have seen in a compact powder yet! Kudos to L’Oreal Paris for adding in such high sun protection factor.

Coming to the coverage and staying power, it gives light to medium coverage which is perfect for daily use. It stays on for quite a few hours and absorbs oil and shine for almost 5-6 hours and keeps it at bay, thanks to the Volcanic Perlite Minerals. Post 5-6 hours, you notice a bit of shine but not too much, just a touch up with this and you are again sorted for few hours.

It is not very powdery or not too drying, but it is not creamy either. If you have dry patches on your face and you use this compact without using a moisturiser, then it will cling to the dry patches. But in a hour or two, it won’t feel dry coz it balances with the skin’s natural oils.

The price point of Rs.399/- is amazing!! Absolutely happy with L’Oreal Paris to keep the price low, it is one of their rare 2-3 products that are priced below Rs.500/- 😀

And coming to the shades, I have Golden Ivory and Nude Honey. Golden Ivory is slightly light for me and Nude Honey is slightly dark. But these powders oxidize a little bit during the day and hence Golden Ivory settles to match my skin.

Here are the swatches..

L- Golden Ivory, R- Nude Honey

I am wearing Golden Ivory here.

Wearing Golden Ivory

Overall, I am very happy with these compact powders. They have everything you could ask for in a compact from coverage to staying powder to keeping oil at bay to sun protection to the perfect shades and price. Highly recommend them! And they would work for all skin types.

Rating:

Quality: 4/5
Value for money : 4/5
Availability: 4/5

Overall rating: 4/5

Have you tried the new L’Oreal Paris Mat Magique All In One Transforming Powders?

Revlon Nearly Naked Makeup & Pressed Powder Review,Swatches,Demo

Revlon Nearly Naked Makeup & Pressed Powder Review,Swatches,Demo

Revlon recently launched their Nearly Naked Makeup range in Mumbai last month where got to see the products and try them first hand and also we learnt a few things about the ingredients, etc and the celebrity Makeup Artist Bianca Harkopf told us more about the foundation and how she uses it. I have been using the foundation and powder since some time and here are my two cents on it.

Revlon Nearly Naked Makeup

What the Company claims: The ultimate lightweight makeup! Formulated with weightless pigments, this refreshingly light formula melts right in creating a fresh, even complexion. Works in harmony with your skin to cover flaws and perfect tone and texture.

Key features:
Naturally flawless complexion
Creates a fresh, even look and covers flaws
Blends seamlessly with buildable coverage for a natural finish
SPF20
Has green tea, black tea, oatmeal and jojoba oil

MRP: Rs.750/- for 30ml

Shades Available: 3

  • Shell- For light skin tones
  • Fresh Beige- For medium skin tones
  • True Beige- For darker skin tones

I have also recorded a video talking about both the Foundation and Powder and also has a demo.

Revlon Nearly Naked Makeup i.e. the Liquid Foundation comes in a square glass bottle packaging with a white cap, and unfortunately, without a pump. So one has to dispense the product directly from the bottle and it gets very messy and unhygienic and also leads to wastage of product. The glass bottle is also not travel friendly.

It is neither too thick nor too runny and blends easily on the skin. It gives a dewy finish and coverage wise it gives light to medium coverage. As the range goes ‘Nearly Naked’, it is true to its name and gives a nice, even , dewy skin and lets the skin breathe without clogging the pores but yet smoothens out the pores. It is ‘My Skin But Better’ kind of finish.

It stays for about 7-8 hours easily but I need to powder the T-zone and oily skin will need 1-2 touch ups with powder through the day. I love dewy finish and usually skip powders, so I absolutely love the finish of this. If you have heavy dark circles or acne scars, you will need to cover those with a separate concealer.

I have the shades Shell and Fresh Beige here. Fresh Beige is a good match for me.

L: Shell, R: Fresh Beige

I have used only the foundation here in this Before – After pic

Before – After

It has SPF 20, which is an added benefit if you are indoors or forgot using your sunscreen, though SPF 20 is not enough and does not replace your sunscreen. Even though this foundation has SPF, it photographs really well and does not give a whitish cast in pictures. Also it does not oxidize much, but does adjust to your skin tone in some time.

I even skipped the moisturizer and my skin did not feel dry at all, it is quite hydrating. It would work for all skin types with a little touch up for oily skin. Overall, it is perfect for everyday use for light to medium coverage. It is priced very economically and would last quite some time.

Rating:

Quality: 4/5
Value for money : 4/5
Availability: 4/5

Overall rating: 4/5

Revlon Nearly Naked Pressed Powder

What the Company claims: Makeup so refreshingly light it melts right in, creating a fresh, even look. Our pressed powder blends so seamlessly with such a lightweight feel, you may forget you’re wearing any makeup at all.

• Evens skin tone
• Non-cakey formula provides a shine-free finish
• Available in 3 shades for varying skin tones

MRP: Rs.725/- for 8g

Shades Available: 3

  • Fair
  • Medium
  • Medium Deep

Revlon Nearly Naked Pressed Powder comes in a long, rectangular white packaging. It has a see through round plastic on top where one can see the powder which will not be a very pretty sight once it is half used :/ It has a small rectangular mirror on one side and a tiny rectangular puff on the powder side.

I am not very happy with the packaging, not at all travel friendly and the tiny puff is impossible to use on the entire face unless you spend a lot of time. The classic, round packaging would have still been better!

L- R: Fair, Medium Deep

The texture of this powder is what compensates the packaging. It is soft as butter and super creamy, it does not feel like a powder at all. You will not even get the usual stray powder when you dip a brush in it as it on the creamier side unlike other dry powders.

The coverage is quite light but it does even out the skin tone and mattify the skin. It also smoothens the pores and gives the face a polished look, which is seen in very few powders. My Inglot AMC Pressed Powder was one such creamy powder.

L: Medium Deep, R: Fair

I prefer using a brush as it takes forever with this tiny sponge. I have the shades Fair and Medium Deep. I thought Medium would be a better match for me and Fair will be very light. But since the coverage is not very high, Fair did work well and it did not look very light. I am going to try using the Medium Deep for contouring, would let you know how it works.

At Rs.725/-, this one is priced slightly higher but the quantity and quality is quite good. I would have definitely preferred better packaging though.

Overall I would say if you are looking for a daily use pressed powder but which is not drying and gives a nice, creamy finish and evens out the skin tone or something to set your makeup, you should check the Revlon Nearly Naked Pressed Powder.

To sum it up, I am very happy with both the Foundation and the Powder, only not happy with the packaging and less number of shades. I would say go and try it out at the store and find your perfect match. If you are medium skin toned, then both the Powder and Foundation in Medium & Fresh Beige respectively would work for you.

Rating:

Quality: 4/5
Value for money : 3.5/5
Availability: 4/5

Overall rating: 3.75/5

What do you think about the Revlon Nearly Naked Range?

Sleek Makeup CC Cream Light Review, Swatches

Sleek Makeup CC Cream Light Review, Swatches

What the Company claims: Boost radiance and mattify shine with our long-lasting complexion corrector cream that treats and conceals imperfections.

  • Buildable medium coverage
  • Contains vitamin C which helps to protect skin against damage caused by free radicals, reduces fine lines, wrinkles and improves skin elasticity
  • Moisturising formula nourishes skin and combats dull and uneven skin tones; leaving a beautifully fresh and even complexion
  • Unique colour adaptive technology adjusts to your skin tone. It also works to brighten and enhance skins natural radiance, whilst fighting against shine
  • SPF 29 protects skin against harmful UVA and UVB rays

Price: $13.49 (Approx Rs.800/-) for 25ml

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Cyclopentasiloxane, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Butylene Glycol, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Glycerin, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Disteardimonium Hectorite, C30-45 Alkyl Methicone, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Isopropyl Myristate, Polybutene, Sodium Citrate, Silica, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Chlorphenesin, Methylparaben, Aluminum Hydroxide, Methicone, Dimethicone/Methicone Copolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Cyclotetrasiloxane, Ascorbyl Glucoside, BHT, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-t-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, [+/- May contain: Mica, Tin Oxide, CI 77491 (Iron Oxides), CI 77492 (Iron Oxides), CI 77499 (Iron Oxides), CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide)].

Shades: Fair, Light, Medium, Dark

Ok, so as most of you know, we already have the CC Creams now after the BB creams..and the rest till Z will follow soon 😀

Coming to this Sleek MakeUP CC cream, it comes in this white and black cap packaging and has a small nozzle dispensor which just dispenses just the required perfect amount..no wastage here!

The shade Light is like my second skin! It suits me so perfectly, or its the CC cream’s color adaptive technology that makes me feel so. But I don’t feel there is anything on apart my skin, it blends and feels so seamless.

At the same time, its a little rich and hydrating..it plumps up my skin. And gives that soft, dewy, hydrated, glossy skin. I have combination skin, but I love base products that give me dewy skin. I am not a matte skin lover..I like it dewy and natural. So, for me, this formula works perfect. For oily skin, you will definitely need to powder up with this and touch up later.

It stays on me for a good whole day when I am out..has stayed 6-7 hours easily. And does not transfer much, a little on tissue, when there is too much humidity. You know I live in Mumbai and we all sweat like pigs once out of the house !

And as far as the coverage goes, its amazing..medium buildable coverage..and I need only a pea sized amount ! Its my go to everyday !

Here is an FOTD with only this CC cream and some kohl and lip balm.

Pros:

1. Amazing coverage.

2. Skin is moisturized and hydrated, you do not even need a separate moisturiser.

3. Gives a dewy, plumped up, healthy looking skin.

4. Stays for 6-7 hours.

5. Does not transfer much.

6. SPF29 UVA+UVB

7. Good for daily use..feels light like second skin.

8. Shades adapt to skin tone and look completely natural.

9. Travel friendly packaging with a perfect small nozzle which prevents wastage.

10. Also has Vitamin C which helps protect skin against skin damage.

Cons:

1. Availability is an issue.

I don’t think I can think of any other cons..I am so in love with it, right from the first use. Its my current staple. I hit ‘tube-end’ on my favorite L’Oreal Paris BB Cream and was planning to repurchase when this arrived ! And I sooo love this..in my Holy Grail now. Though there are only 4 shades, the Color Adaptive technology helps it match your skin tone. I highly recommend this ! Though oily skin and people who love matte skin, do need to powder. For normal to dry skin, this is a must have.

Rating:

Quality: 4.5/5
Value for money: 4.5/5
Availability: 3.5/5

Overall Rating: 4/5

Would I buy it again: Yes

Have you tried any CC Creams ? Your favorite ?

 P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review.

TonyMoly Aqua Aura Illuminating Base Review

TonyMoly Aqua Aura Illuminating Base Review

What the Company claims: This fine two-tone hologram pearl provides soft pearl touch to the entire face. It covers pores and fine wrinkles and provides a radiant, transparent vitality to skin tone. While moisturizing the skin for a long time, it does not leave any sticky residue on the skin.

Directions: Apply an appropriate amount evenly to the entire face. Reapply to the outer part of the cheekbone area. T-zone area, and below the jaw area to maximize radiance effects and define facial contours.

Ingredients:

MRP: $15.25 for 30ml

It comes in this blue and white packaging..with a sleek blue cap and a nozzle dispensor..you just need a little amount of it..

Its white in color and a little thick in consistency..it has that super pearly sheen..and reduces the appearance of pores..

Its non sticky as claimed and stays put well and holds makeup longer too..only issue is its way too pearly..and I personally do not like the shiny pearly look all over my face during daytime..

L- Unblended, R- Blended

It looks good for a party or some night event..

Pros:

1. Helps reduce the appearance of pores.

2. Gives a pearly sheen to the face.

3. Is non sticky and stays put well.

4. If you like the shiny look, you would definitely love this.

Cons:

1. Not available here.

2. Too shiny for daytime use.

Overall, I would say its a nice base for a night time event..or for someone who loves shimmery/pearly look.

You can buy it  from Cosmetic-love HERE

Rating:

Quality: 3.5/5
Value for money: 3.5/5
Availability: 3/5

Overall rating: 3.25/5

Would I buy it again: No..I am not a fan of shimmery look.

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Have you tried the TonyMoly Aqua Aura Illumintating Base ?

P.S: PR Sample. Honest Review.