Category Archives: Reviews

MAC Studio Finish Skin Corrector Pure Orange Review, Swatches

MAC Studio Finish Skin Corrector Pure Orange Review, Swatches

MAC Studio Finish Skin Corrector Pure Orange Review, Swatches

By Linda

Hello Ladies,

Today’s review is about a product which I wasn’t aware about its existence and why it is highly used by makeup experts. I was looking for a product that would cover my under eye discoloration and small skin bumps. Before we begin with the review, let me just brief you about how I got to know about this product and why I found it necessary to purchase it. I have reddish discoloration around my eyes along with a few skin bumps under my eyes. I tried using several concealers and foundations but never found 100 % coverage of the discoloration.

I tried most of the home remedies from using cold tea bags and cucumbers, under eye creams/ getting proper sleep / hormonal imbalance check, almost most of the things but still I have it. Especially in pictures with low back light my dark eyes would make me look lethargic and pale. Even though I do my entire makeup, after few hours my dark circles would be visible on pictures. As I suffer from a skin condition, “eczema” I have dry skin around my eyes secondly the shading caused under my eyes is due to the shape of my eye socket. A year ago, I had gone through a makeup course, where our trainer informed us about details of a corrector, how correctors are used and selected as per our skin tone. If you browse on interest there is a vast information about skin color correctors and color theory. So this is how I decided to try MAC Studio Finish Skin Corrector ( PURE ORANGE) and realized it did work for me to camouflage my under eye discoloration.

Let us first understand what is a skin Color corrector?

A color corrector neutralizes the uneven tones like reddish /blue / green /violet when used along with concealer and foundation. Correctors are available in different tones. Personally I feel orange corrector works best on Indian skin tones. Skin Correctors masks unevenness and pigmentation on our skin.

Correctors are not same as concealers !!!! Color correctors along with foundation / concealers can camouflage (May not cover it 100%) the discoloration in the skin.

This is just to mention that all information about this product in this post is based on my personal experience. The outcome of the product may vary person to person.

What MAC Claims:  A specially tinted, full-coverage and long wearing water resistant corrector. Goes on smooth and dries to a natural finish. Emollient rich formula that is highly pigmented and only requires a dab to correct discoloration and conceal tattoos ,dark circles and blemishes.

Benefits: SPF 35, long wearing (12 hours), controls oil, rich in antioxidants, water resistant, fragrance free, non acnegenic

Price: 8.75 KWD /- for 6g [around 2000 Indian rupees]

Packaging/Shade/Texture:

This product is packed in a MAC tub container which is black in color with a transparent non detachable lid. The shade and weight of the product is mentioned behind the tub. You may either use the product by running the finger tip over it (I know that isn’t hygienic) or you could scoop out a tiny amount with a help of a spatula and blend on a palette or use a concealer brush.

It is vibrant orange shade as MAC claims it, highly pigmented; a tiny amount is enough to fix the discoloration so a tub of 6 gms can really go a long way. It is creamy smooth in texture , which on application doesn’t not crease into your fine lines and easily bendable. It does camouflage my discoloration and skin bump under my eyes to a very good extent.

As I mentioned about my skin condition earlier, I did not face any skin irritation with this product, in fact this product kept my skin hydrated throughout.

How do I apply this product on my face for utmost results?

Application is divided in three simple steps (For this post I will be talking about how I used this product for my under eye discoloration)

Moisturizer, Corrector, Concealer

Step 1: Moisturize the area around yours eye well. With the help of my index finger I dab the product on the back of my palm to avoid excess amount of product to be added directly on to my skin.

Step 2: With a help of a clean finger tip dab the blended product on your discolored skin which is around my eye area [above the lids and under eye]. Dab a tissue with a very light hand on to the applied skin to pick excess product which helps us to avoid creasing.

Step 3: Once Step 2 Completed .Dab your foundation, concealer and finally a translucent powder to lock all your products in place.

Note: I’m mentioning several times to dab the product since we do not want to drag the color corrector all over our face as the discoloration is only on particular area. Dabbing also helps the product to blend into your skin well to give that natural finish.

At the beginning you might find it time consuming but trust me the final results are fabulous. You just need a hang of the amount of product to be used, so begin with a tiny amount then increase if you need more coverage.

I use this product for parties, office meetings where I want to look fresh when I’m not .hehehe!!. Secondly you can have an even skin tone after using color corrector. I may not use a corrector on daily basis as I avoid using excess products. But it’s your personal choice.

Pros:

  • Highly pigmented
  • Best results on pictures
  • Medium coverage
  • Evens out the skin tone( natural finish)
  • Stay Power ( atleast 8 hours)
  • Easily bendable
  • Water proof and non irritating to skin
  • Product lasts for a long time ,as tiny amount is required.
  • Light weight
  • Controls oiliness (does not crease)
  • Has SPF

Cons:

  • Could be a little heavy on pockets as you may not use this product as a daily routine.
  • Need prior practice for application ( This may not be a con for some)
  • You need addition dabbing sponge or brushes for a neat finish.

Rating: 4/5

Would I recommend MAC Studio Finish Skin Corrector ( PURE ORANGE) ? Yes!!!! Yes!!! For blue to reddish dark circles and pigmentation it’s a must.

Editor’s Note: Nice review Linda, I have the LA Girl Orange corrector, would definitely check this out once I am done with that. But an orange corrector changes the eye game completely, whole face looks even toned and fresh

Have you tried orange correctors for dark circles? Which one do you use?

December 2016 Fab Bag Unboxing

December 2016 Fab Bag Unboxing

Hi guys,

I got the December Fab Bag just now, this month’s theme is ‘The Partyholic

MRP: Rs.599/- per month (Buy HERE)

Read my previous Fab Bag reviews:

I love this silver black holographic kind pouch, it’s pretty.

Products I got:

  • Iba Halal Foot Massage Cream (Full size- Rs.95/- for 50g)
  • Natural Bath & Body Hair Mist (50ml – Rs.525/- for 100ml)
  • Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Skin Therapy Oil Roll On (15ml – Rs.460/- for 60ml)
  • City Color Be Matte Lipstick Lana- (Full size- Rs.500/-)

I quite liked the City Color Be Matte Lipstick last month, so this month too when I was given an option I chose the same lipstick in a different shade. This time I chose a red called ‘Lana‘. It’s a beautiful cool toned red. I love the formula of these City Color Be Matte Lipsticks, very similar to the Sugar Cosmetics It’s A Pout Time formula.

I have tried Iba Halal moisturizer before and it was pretty decent, so looking forward to try this foot massage cream. Perfect time to try the foot cream.

I love Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula products and do have this oil. I like this roll on packaging more, very handy and convenient.

And last but not the least, is the Natural Bath & Body Hair Mist. Smells really good, but I am not sure if the smell would stay through the day. Again a travel friendly bottle.

Total value of the products comes to round Rs.1000. Overall, I would say it’s an Ok bag. Not a must have, but if you would like to try these products including one makeup product of your choice, then you can give it a go.

What did you get in your December Fab Bag?

All Nykaa So Matte Lipsticks Review, Swatches

All Nykaa So Matte Lipsticks Review, Swatches

Hi guys,

I have been planning to do this post since a long time, but I wanted to do lip swatches and that took some time. Finally I did them and then the editing, etc. Anyhoo, let’s get on to the review..

Claims:  Nykaa So Matte! Lipstick Collection

You’ve got a new favorite matte lipstick! The creamy, long-lasting texture gives you pout-worthy lips in one stroke. It effortlessly glides on your lips, giving you a gorgeous soft matte finish. Pucker up and party with our delectable matte lipstick. Muah!

  • Plush, pigment-rich formula.
  • Intense colour pay-off.
  • Smooth texture.
  • One stroke application.
  • Luxurious, effortless glide.
  • Soft matte finish.

Nykaa So Matte! Lipstick Collection Includes : 12 shades

Nykaa So Matte! Lipstick – Notorious Red 01 : Exciting, enticing with little bit of mischief, our Notorious Red is all that! Red enough to let him know you are up for an adventure and bright enough to light up the whole room. Have it all with this gorgeous red hue, while you sip on your Cosmo!

Nykaa So Matte ! Lipstick- Frisky Fuschia 02 : If the sun ain’t shining bright enough, light it up with our Frisky Fuschia. This bubbly pink shade means sheer fun. So, go ahead live in the moment and shine like a million-dollar bill with this lively shade!

Nykaa So Matte ! Lipstick – Devious Pink 03 : In a world full of Cady Heron’s, be Regina George with our Devious Pink. Dramatic, foxy and fabulous, duh! With this pink shade, you’ll have anyone under your charms.

Nykaa So Matte ! Lipstick – Racy Rose 04 : Our Racy Rose is everything that you’ve dreamed of! This subtle pink will have gentlemen holding doors for you, everywhere. Cast a spell on everyone as you walk down the streets with this bashful yet alluring shade.

Nykaa So Matte ! Lipstick – Pink Brat 05 : Our Pink Brat will have your Champagne dreams and Caviar wishes coming true. Life is glamorous with this classy pink shade. Go ahead, treat yourself with all the finer things, cause you deserve nothing but the best!

Nykaa So Matte! Lipstick – Sinful Blush 06 : Take him to other side and let the sparks fly with our Sinful Blush. Go all the way, walk down the precarious road and let this beautiful shade light up your face.

Nykaa So Matte! Lipstick – Wicked Wine 07 : If you let go of our Wicked Wine, you know you’ll regret it. Mysterious and tempting, we bet you won’t be able to keep your hands of our luscious berry hue! So, go ahead and give in.

Nykaa So Matte! Lipstick – Orange Vice 08 : You’ll be caught in a bad romance with our Orange Vice. Feisty and fiery, this bright orange shade is garage glamorous. It screams sensational and well, we don’t mind being the talk of the town.

Nykaa So Matte! Lipstick – Pink Flirt 09 : Play the love game with our Pink Flirt. This vibrant pink is sure to ring trumpets in his head. Get him hooked to you like a love controller with this flirty shade.

Nykaa So Matte! Lipstick – Mischievous Plum 10 : Be the ‘It girl’ of your clique with our mischievous plum. This deep juicy shade is dark enough to keep things mysterious and fun enough to make you the star girl.

Nykaa So Matte! Lipstick – Naughty N*de 11

Nykaa So Matte! Lipstick – Taupe Thrill 12 : Our Taupe Thrill will remind of you of that one night when your love went viral! As you go on a put this nude shade on your lips, a faint taste of thrill and excitement will linger. Go bare yet coy with our alluring shade.

Why you should make it yours?

Unlike its chalky peers, this cruelty-free, and high-pigment formula is infused with Vitamin E for a soft, cushiony and flexible finish. The unique formulation ensures that your lips stay comfortable, colored up and matte-smooth all day. Another bonus: These vivid, full-coverage hues are hand-selected and named by our Inhouse Nykaa Panel, just in time for the festive season. The best part, they’re super affordable so you can go all out and buy the whole range.

Price: INR 399 for 4.2g

Availability: On Nykaa (HERE)

First of all, I love the packaging! It’s all black rectangular packaging with a magnetic cap. For the price, the packaging is very classy!

Also you get 4.2 g product which is the maximum one gets in a lipstick, and I am glad the quantity is good too.

They are super pigmented and you will need two swipes to get even, opaque coverage on the lips. The finish is creamy matte, so they are not dry or powder matte like the MAC Matte or the Chambor Matte Lipsticks. They glide on super easily and feel very comfortable on the lips.

They are not transfer proof and will transfer on all cups, glasses, etc. But the pigment is so strong, that it doesn’t fade on transferring. It stays put for 5-6 hours and with light snacks and tea. With a full meal and oil based food, it will fade. But it does fade evenly and leaves a nice stain behind.

At first, I only liked 3 shades thinking rest of the shades are the usual and nothing different. But when I tried them on, I was like I like this too and this too and it went on 😀

I have divided them into 4 each i.e. in 3 parts for convenience of swatches. Let’s start with the first four.

01 Notorious Red is a true apple red

02 Frisky Fuchsia is a bright fuchsia pink

03 Devious Pink is neutral rosy pink

04 Racy Rose is warm coral pink

Here are the lip swatches..

Coming to next 4..

05 Pink Brat is light rosy pink, might not look on pigmented lips

06 Sinful Blush is a carrot pink

07 Wicked Wine is a deep wine

08 Orange Vice is a warm, wearable orange..very Kylie Jenner like.

Here are the lip swatches..

And the final 4..

09 Pink Flirt is a neon coral

10 Mischievous Plum is a beautiful, deep plum

11 Naughty N*de is a perfect n*de brown shade, MLBB shade for many.

12 Taupe Thrill is again a pretty taupe brown n*de, another Kylie like shade

Here are the lip swatches..

Overall, I would say these are a total value for money! In terms of price, quantity, quality, shades, formula, they score on everything. Highly recommend them!

My favourites are Frisky Fuchsia, Orange Vice, Wicked Wine, Mischievous Plum, Taupe Thrill and Naughty N*de.

Have you tried the new Nykaa So Matte Lipsticks? Your favourites?

MUFE Ultra HD Foundation, HD Second Skin Cream Blush Review, Swatches

MUFE Ultra HD Foundation, HD Second Skin Cream Blush Review, Swatches

Hi guys,

So if you saw my First Impressions video, I had used the Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Foundation and the Second Skin Cream Blush in that. Unfortunately, the lighting in that video was poor. I did test it out quite a few times later on, and of course have natural lighting better pictures. So let’s get on to the review first..

Claims: Developed specifically for the film and TV industry’s most advanced technology, Ultra HD Liquid Foundation creates a naturally flawless complexion—on and off camera. Completely invisible under the latest, super-focused 4k lens, this revolutionary foundation features uniquely-coated pigments that provide medium to buildable coverage with an even lighter weight, second-skin texture that looks just like skin. This lighter weight formula delivers the very same flawless results as before when applied with a flat foundation brush in a tap and stretch motion

Long lasting with a natural finish, Ultra HD Liquid Foundation is formulated with hyaluronic spheres to ensure comfortable wear on all skin types. Now available in an expanded range of 40 shades to match all skintones, Ultra HD is the perfect everyday foundation for a flawless complexion – and an unretouched life.

MRP: INR 3400 for 30ml

Availability: Sephora stores

Shades Available in India: 15

How to apply: Apply two pumps of Ultra HD Liquid Foundation in thin layers, starting in the center of the face and stretching outward.

Buildable Coverage: For best results, apply with a flat foundation brush or sponge

Light Coverage: Buffing brush

After the Make Up Forever HD foundation’s massive success, they launched the Ultra HD which is even better and meant for super high definition pictures and videos i.e. for 4K lens.

It comes in a similar packaging with a pump as the HD foundation, only the HD is completely black while the Ultra HD is silver at the center body.

It is very runny and light weight in texture, it has 80% water content, so you don’t feel like you have foundation on even with multiple layers.

It has medium coverage which is buildable, but you won’t get a complete coverage with this, you will need a separate concealer for blemishes. You can build up the coverage in thin layers, and still it will never look cakey or heavy. It will give you a natural skin-like finish and it will be hard for anyone to say you have foundation on.

I have the shade Y375 Golden Sand. Y is for yellow undertones and R is for red undertones, I guess.

I love love how natural it looks, it blends into the skin seamlessly and looks skin like. I have never come across such a natural foundation. It photographs really well. If you prefer matte finish, you can use a powder to mattify it, it will not look powdery or cakey whatsoever.

It stays put through the day and does not wear off or settle into lines or crease, even on the edges of the nose or the laugh lines.

I agree it is pricey, but I definitely recommend it for days when you are going to be photographed or have a special occasion. This is meant to be used for high definition photography and does that job amazingly well. It is invisible even on 4K camera and looks like skin!

HD Second Skin Cream Blush

Claims: Products in the HD range come from a generation of formulas designed to create makeup that is flawless, natural and invisible to both high definition cameras and the naked eye.

Unlike any other cream or powder blush*, this unique formula melts on the skin for an extremely natural flush of color with a long lasting result. Its blendable, second skin texture allows for easy, controlled application.

Formulated with the perfect balance of silica powder and synthetic mica, HD Blush has a soft focus effect that diffuses light for a radiant finish. Its blend of waxes and oils creates a lightweight texture that easily glides on the skin for a flawless result.
Studio-tested with HD camera.
Dermatologist tested. For all skin types.

MRP: INR 2600 for 2.8g

How to apply: Remove a small amount of HD Blush and apply it with a brush, HD Sponge, or the fingertips, depending on the desired result.

Shades Available: 16

I have the shade 320 English Rose, it’s a beautiful muted rosy pink shade. I love the texture of it, it has a cream to powder finish. So once you blend it in, it settles in just to give a soft flush of color. There is no slip or greasiness and the color won’t slide off.

Blended, Unblended

The best part about this HD blush is, even though it is quite pigmented, it does not look OTT on the face. It just gives a soft flush of color and is very easily buildable and blendable.

I love the natural flush of color it gives to the cheeks. Also loved the shade 330 Rosy Plum, both the shades 320 and 330 are perfect for everyday wear and would work on warm Indian fair to medium skin tones. 330 one would work on Medium to Dark too.

Again being HD, it photographs really well.

I have used both here..

and here..

Overall, I would say, HD products are a must have for someone who gets photographed often. If you are a bride to be, I would definitely suggest the Ultra HD Foundation and the HD Blush. They have HD Concealers and Powders too.

Have you tried the MUFE HD/Ultra HD Foundation? Or the HD Blush? Your thoughts?

P.S: PR Samples. Honest Review

Winter Skincare Routine | The Body Shop Vitamin E Range Review + Giveaway

Winter Skincare Routine | The Body Shop Vitamin E Range Review + Giveaway

Hi guys,

I have been using this Vitamin E range for more than 2 weeks now and here are my thoughts..

Vitamin E Cream Cleanser

This light cream cleanser gently lifts away dirt, make-up and impurities.
• Gently but effectively cleanses
• Softens and conditions
• Leaves skin feeling smooth and supple

How to use: Apply to the face and neck with fingertips. Wipe away with a cotton pad or muslin cloth.

MRP: Rs.795/- for 200ml

It comes in a long slender bottle with a flip cap. It’s a little thicker lotion and you need to squeeze the bottle to dispense the product. It takes off the daily dirt and grime from the pores and some basic makeup like a tinted moisturizer/BB Cream, etc. It leaves the skin super soft and moisturized. This won’t work on water proof makeup, so for your heavy duty eye makeup, you will need to use a separate remover.

Vitamin E Moisture Serum

This pre-moisturiser provides intensive, continuous hydration and protection.
• Pre-moisturiser
• Gives extra hydration
• Immediately smoothes skin

How to use: Apply to face and neck using fingertips before moisturising.

MRP: Rs.1295/- for 30ml

It’s a pre moisturizer treatment and also has rice bran oil apart from the basic wheat germ oil this entire Vitamin E Range has. It is very light weight and gel like in texture. You just need half a pump for each use and it does make the moisture locked in the skin for a longer time.

Vitamin E Moisture Protect Emulsion/Day Lotion with SPF

A lightweight, milky formula to moisturise and protect your skin against UVA and UVB damage.

– Locks in moisture for 48 hours of hydration, leaving skin feeling soft and smooth
– Antioxidant properties protects against free radicals
– Powered with Biofermented Hyaluronic Acid

How to use: Apply a pea-sized amount onto fingertips and massage onto the face and neck in an upward motion after your serum. Best applied as part of your morning regime and/or before being exposed to the sun.

MRP: Rs.1495/- for 50ml

This is the new launch in the Vitamin E Range. It comes in a very handy and travel friendly, sleek bottle with black cap and pump packaging. It is very runny, so make sure you pump carefully. I need 1.5 pumps per use and it covers whole face and neck well.

I am glad this has SPF 30 PA+++ protection and works as both moisturizer + sunscreen. I don’t use a separate sunscreen and the biofermented hyaluronic acid keeps the moisture locked in the skin. Even after 5-6 hours my skin is soft and hydrated, and does not feel dry or stretchy even once.

Vitamin E Night Cream

This rich night cream replenishes moisture levels while you sleep.
• Intensively hydrates
• Works when skin is at its most receptive
• Leaves skin soft and smooth

How to use: Apply to face and neck just before bed, after cleansing and toning.

MRP: Rs.1195/- for 50ml

This is the only product out of the 4 I am using  hat is slightly rich. It has Cocoa butter as one of the ingredients and that makes it intensely moisturizing. You just need a pea sized amount and you are good. I prefer a little heavy moisturizer during night time and this is just perfect. My skin is all soft and hydrated even the next morning.

Usually by end of Nov and start of Dec, my skin starts feeling dry and stretchy. I am glad I started using this range early Nov and my skin has not been dry at all this time. No dry spots or flaky skin, it is all plump and hydrated.

I definitely recommend the Vitamin E range, especially for winters. Dry skin definitely can use it throughout the year, but specifically for winters, this range is amazing.

I am giving away two of the products i.e. the cream cleanser and the new day lotion/emulsion to 3 winners on my YouTube, so make sure you participate 🙂

Do let me know your thoughts about this range in the comments below, have you tried it?

Giorgio Armani Sì EDP Review

Giorgio Armani Sì EDP Review

By Linda

Hello gorgeous ladies,

Hope you had an amazing Diwali with your loved ones. Today’s review is about a lovely fragrance called Si by Giorgio Armani. A sale assistant at the counter in the Mumbai international airport (Duty Free Shopping) allowed me to try on this perfume and assured me that once sprayed on to your clothes, this perfume will last for at least 3 days. Yes!! You heard me right 3 days, so I went ahead to try it. I’m very particular in terms of perfumes since I dislike strong fragrances or perfumes that are too sweet and fruity. Strong perfumes tend to give a headache secondly I cannot spray perfume on my skin since it irritates easily. Fragrances that are subtle and yet lasts for long is what I like and look for. As I tried on this perfume, it was easy for me to decide as I instantly fell in love with this classy fragrance. There were other various collections in Si range. But this was the best high end perfume I found for myself. I was offered this perfume on a discounted price since I purchased various other things in Duty Free. So let’s find out more about this awesome fragrance.

Product description: An Aromatic rose scented fragrance. At once chic, voluptuous, intense and soft. Si eau de parfum lingers on the skin and enchants the sense. The distinguish and elegant fragrance allows women to express their every emotion.

Si has a top note of blackcurrant nectar, a heart of freesia and Rose of Mai, with a musky blond wood base. This fragrance was created for the modern women who’s strong yet feminie, sophisticated yet charismatic. She embodies the very essence of chic Italian elegance and style.

Price: Approx 7000 INR for 50 ml.

Packaging: The Perfume is packed in a glass transparent bottle with a black cap giving a sophisticated yet a feminine look with the brand names printed. It comes in a well packed carton box. The shape of the bottle is convenient to grip and comfortably hold on to the nozzle to pump required amount of fragrance. The ingredients of the perfume are mentioned on the back of the carton box. I always keep it in the carton and carry along with me while I’m travelling overseas.

My take on Giorgio Armani Sì Perfume

In simple words this fragrance has a subtle yet unique note that I never came across .It does not even irritate the skin or give any sorts of headache once spraying onto yourself or your clothes. It smells feminine and sophisticated. I had many of them asking me as in which perfume I’m wearing. The smell remains on all day long. You need not carry the bottle along with you all day since the fragrance just remains throughout once sprayed. And as the sales assistant assured me it definitely remains on your clothes for days.

I haven’t sprayed this perfume on a sunny and humid day. Mostly sprayed it during an indoor event in cool temperatures.

I do not use it on daily basis since I don’t want finish the bottle soon 🙂 It’s perfect for important events like high end parties, job interview, meetings or even a date, where you can get easily noticed for this classic perfume and a few raised eyebrows here and there. Believe me it’s hard to explain in words how the perfume exactly smells but handsdown it will be totally worth it. I’m definitely buying this perfume again hope it remains on the permanent collections. A Must buy!!.

Pros:

  • Unique Fragrance
  • Lasts really long (Clothes and skin)
  • Does not irritate the skin
  • Does not given any headaches (atleast for me)
  • Smells simply awesome
  • Suitable for any event(wearable perfume)

Cons:

  • None

Rating: 5/5

Would I recommend Giorgio Armani Sì Eau de Parfum Spray? Definitely Yes!!! , I’m confident you will love this perfume.

Editor’s Note: This sounds absolutely amazing, I will definitely try this at the duty free next.

Have you tried the Giorgio Armani Sì EDP? Which is your favourite perfume?

Sugar Cosmetics It’s A-Pout Time Vivid Lipstick The Big Bang Berry Review, Swatches

Sugar Cosmetics It’s A-Pout Time Vivid Lipstick The Big Bang Berry Review, Swatches

By Sanchita

INTRODUCTION – Winter is almost here and it is that time of the year when we are going to sport the deepest, darkest bold lip colors all day long. Warm Indian skin tones and bold lip colors are the best combination and thus for this winter I wanted to add a plum/berry kind of lip color. While I have tried every other brand in the market, I was yet to try the Sugar Cosmetics. I have heard so many praises for their collection that this time I decided to purchase this pretty wine color for winter. Read on to know my review on it.

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION – Creamy and moisturizing, SUGAR It’s A-Pout Time! Vivid Lipstick combines the look of a classic matte lip with the benefit of incredible comfort. Enriched with micronized pigments and silica micro-beads, this matte lipstick glides on easily and settles to a gorgeous matte finish. FDA approved, this lipstick is free of mineral oil and parabens.

PRICE – Rs. 599 for 3.5 g (Buy HERE)

MY REVIEW

Packaging – The Sugar Cosmetics It's Pout Time Lipsticks are encased inside a cardboard box. It comes in a slender rectangular matte black body with the brand name and shade name written on the lower portion. The packaging is extremely classy and easy to carry around. It has the usual twist up packaging, shuts with a click and relatively light weight yet sturdy. Overall, the casing is worth the product.

Shade – The shade 01 The Big Bang Berry has been named after the TV Series The Big Bang Theory. In fact, every shade of this series is named very interestingly as well. Coming back, the shade has been described as ‘wine matte’ color as per the website. Taking a close look at it, the shade The Big Bang Berry is a deep plum berry with wine undertones. It has no shimmer or frost at all and can be described as the perfect deep plum fall shade. The color is a great option for night wear and compliments the warm skin tones really well. For dusky to deeper skin tones, it can be a great everyday deep color.

Pigmentation – The pigmentation is a bang on! It goes on giving a wonderful saturation of color to the lips with a single swipe and with another layer, the full saturation of color is seen and gives a neat look as well. You won’t need any lip liner or concealer to bring out the best of the color. Therefore, I am thoroughly impressed with the pigmentation.

Texture and finish – The texture is the lipstick is smooth, creamy and glides like a dream. The texture leans towards the gel-matte kind of lipstick and feels light and comfortable. No matter how many layer you go for, the lipsticks wont bleed or feather at all. It doesn’t accentuates on fine lines of the lips and neither dries out. It is surely the most comfortable matte formula I have worn till now. To summarize, I would say the texture is something between satin-matte and dry-matte.

Formula – The lipstick is formulated with silicones and that is why it doesn’t have the glossy creamy touch but feel super smooth against the lips. It is better to exfoliate the lips to get a neat and proper look. You don’t need lip balm on top or underneath as the lipstick is hydrating enough. In fact, the lipstick is free of mineral oil and parabens as well. However, the lipsticks transfer a little.

Staying power – The lipstick is surely long lasting and lasted on my lips for around 6-6.5hrs. After meals, it will fade off and get removed from the centre easily. That is why you need proper retouch after food intake. The lipstick does stain the lips slightly.

WHAT I LIKED

1. Classy matte black and sturdy packaging.

2. The shade The Big Bang Berry is a deep plum berry with wine undertones.

3. Perfect shade for fall/ winter.

4. Good pigmentation.

5. Creamy soft texture and light weight.

6. Hydrated yet matte.

7. Doesn’t accentuates fine lines, dry patches.

8. Neither bleeds nor feathers.

9. Semi-matte comfortable finish.

10. Formulated without mineral oil and parabens.

11. Staying power is around 6-6.5hrs.

WHAT I DISLIKED

1. Transfers a little.

2. Stains the lips slightly after a whole day.

RATING – 4.3/5

OVERALL and RECOMMENDATION – The Sugar Cosmetics It’s A-Pout Time Lipstick The Big Bang Berry is a beautiful plum berry-wine color with comfortable gel-matte texture, good pigmentation, semi-matte finish and paraben free formula. The lipstick is also long wearing and a perfect shade for the fall/winter. I would highly recommend the shade for every skin tone.

See Top 10 Berry Lipsticks Perfect for Fall/Winter Available in India HERE

New Lakme Absolute Illuminating Eyeshadow Palettes Royal Persia, French Rose Review, Swatches

New Lakme Absolute Illuminating Eyeshadow Palettes Royal Persia, French Rose Review, Swatches

Hi guys,

In my previous post on the Lakme Absolute x Sabyasachi’s ‘Illuminate & Shine’ Collection, I reviewed the new bronzer, highlighter and shimmer brick. (See HERE)

These two eye shadow palettes are also a part of the Limited Edition Sabyasachi Collection.

Lakme already has the day Gold and night Silver palette in this Illuminating Palette range, see the swatches of the Day Palette HERE.

Claims:  They say it’s the eyes that gives you that extra sparkle. So as you prep for your festive looks this year try the new Lakmé Absolute Illuminating Eyeshadow palettes to add to the glam quotient. These limited edition eyeshadows by Sabysachi Mukherjee have 6 versatile colours to play with and create stunning looks that are bound to turn heads.
Whether it’s the lovely plum tones of the Royal Persia palette or the warm earthy shades of the French Rosé palette, these unique shades are absolute must-haves.

Limited edition eye shadow palettes designed by fashion designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee
High intensity powders
6 versatile shades that blend beautifully
Suited for most Indian skin tones

MRP: Rs.995/- each for 7.5g (Buy Royal Persia HERE and French Rose HERE)

Royal Persia has more purple/pink tone shades and French Rose has more warm browns/coppers. From the first look of it, I absolutely love French Rose! The shades are stunning and so apt for the fall/winter/wedding season currently. I can think of 9-10 different eye looks immediately looking at the palette.

French Rose is definitely very versatile and very flattering on Indian skin tones.

Both palettes have the usual packaging with a mirror and a double ended sponge tip applicator.

Honestly except for 1-2 shades, I was not so impressed with the pigmentation of the shadows in the previous day palette. This time I am blown away and how!

I had huge expectations from the palettes as the shades looked really pretty. And I am so glad Lakme has worked on the pigmentation this time, all the shadows are super creamy and buttery and these swatches are just one swipe each!

Top Row:

A coppery bronze, close to MAC’s Amber Lights (Amber Lights is slightly more gold)

A matte plum brown, this was the only shade with little less pigmentation compared to the other 5, but is easily buildable

A satin finish pinky red

Bottom Row:

A matte dark chocolate brown

A satin finish peachy pink, close to MAC’s Expensive Pink (Expensive Pink is a little more pinker)

A matte burnt orange with some gold shimmer

Each and every shade is super pigmented! This palette is a must have for all brides to be, it’s a perfect addition to your trousseau. I will be creating a look with this palette super soon.

Coming to Royal Persia,

Top Row:

A satin finish aqua blue

A matte purple, again the only shade in the palette which is not that pigmented

A matte slate blue

Bottom Row:

A satin finish plum

A satin finish light pink

A satin creamy beige with gold shimmer, very creamy.

This palette has more cool toned and grey based shades, and more on blue and pink lines.

All the shades in both the palettes are very creamy and buildable, except for one shade in both, all are pigmented and blend well into each other.

If you like warm shades, you can go for French Rose and if you like cooler shades, you can pick Royal Persia.

For me personally, I absolutely love French Rose and if I have to recommend one, I would say French Rose 🙂

I hope you liked the review, let me know your favourite in the comments below.

Lakme Sun Kissed Bronzer, Moon Lit Highlighter, Illuminating Shimmer Brick Review, Swatches

Lakme Sun Kissed Bronzer, Moon Lit Highlighter, Illuminating Shimmer Brick Review, Swatches

Hi guys,

So as you all already know, Lakme launched these new products in their ‘Illuminate and Shine‘ collection during the last fashion week. This is a Limited Edition range brought in collaboration with Sabyasachi Mukherjee.

This range also has Illuminating Foundation and Shine Line liquid eye liners which I guess are permanent, only the bronzers and highlighters are LE.

There is one bronzer, one highlighter and two shades in the Illuminating Shimmer Brick i.e. Pink and Coral.

Lakme had this bronzer and highlighter earlier too and it was LE at that time too, so those two are like a relaunch. But I love the new addition of the Shimmer Brick.

All three come in same packaging, a flat round pan with a clear plastic cap. There is no brush, no mirror, no other compartment. The product is stand alone.

Sun kissed Bronzer

Claims: 

  • Limited edition makeup bronzer designed by fashion designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee
  • Contains luxurious micro fine pearls
  • Blends effortlessly for a natural sun kissed glow
  • Dermatologically tested

MRP: Rs.725/- for 9g (Buy for 600 HERE)

The bronzer is half and half with one part being lighter and one darker. It is very smooth in texture and though shimmery, the shimmers are not gritty or chunky. I found it slightly orange though, I wish it was a little more brown based. Also if one part could have been matte, that would make it ideal for contouring + bronzing

Moon Lit Highlighter

Claims:

  • A limited edition highlighter designed by fashion designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee
  • Ideal for strobing
  • Reflective shimmer finish
  • Contains fine velvet pearls to give your skin a stunning glow

MRP: Rs.725/- for 9g (Buy HERE)

Coming to the Moon Lit Highlighter, one part is a white based lighter highlighter and one is a dark brown based highlighter for deeper skin tones, which is exactly the same shade as the bronzer. So this is actually be a bronzer-highlighter duo.

Bronzer part feels exactly the same as in the Sun Kissed Bronzer, I love the lighter highlight part. It gives the most stunning soft, natural highlight. You can use this on an everyday basis and no one would know that you have highlighted! But if you prefer stronger highlights like me, layer this twice over a creamy highlighter and this will stay in place whole day, giving the most blinding highlight ever 😀 See it in action in my video HERE

Illuminating Shimmer Brick

Claims: 

  • A limited edition blush palette designed by fashion designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee
  • Comes with a hint of shimmer
  • Luminous silky formula makes your cheek glow
  • Blends effortlessly

MRP: Rs.725/- for 10g (Buy HERE)

My most favourite out of the three is the Illuminating Shimmer Brick. I have the shade Coral. Both the shades Coral and Pink are beautiful! Both would work for all skin tones, but if I have to suggest one, I would say Pink for fair and medium skin tones and Coral for deeper skin tones.

It has 5 strips of color, with the top ones being more highlighter like and the bottom ones being more blush like. So you can either use them individually or just swirl the brush all over and use on both blush and highlight part for an all over glow! The peachy coral tones work really well the gold based highlight colors and together combined, they give the most amazing peachy gold glow. This product is perfect for brides too!

All blended together

The best part about all three is that they double up as eye shadows and look really good on the eyes. As the colors are bronzer and warm toned, they make nice lid colors and highlight for inner corner and brow bone or just a wash all over the eyes.

Overall, in my honest opinion, I would say go for the illuminating shimmer brick and the moon lit highlighter. You can skip the bronzer as the darker part in the moon lit highlighter is exactly the same. But if you are deeper skin tone and prefer deep highlighters only, go for the bronzer and skip the highlighter 🙂

I hope you liked the review, do let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

November 2016 My Envy Box Review, Unboxing & 20% Off Discount Code

November 2016 My Envy Box Review, Unboxing & 20% Off Discount Code

Hi guys,

So I just got my November My Envy Box and it is so good, that I had to share it immediately!

First of, this box is beautiful! The summery pastel floral colors and design is so, so pretty! The theme for this month is ‘Handmade’, so all the products are natural and organic i.e. chemical free

MRP: Rs.850/- (Available HERE)

Products I got:

  • Neemli Naturals Shea Butter Body Polish/Scrub -Full size (Rs.475/- for 25g)
  • Aerth Hair Protein Pack- Full size (Rs.275/- for 150g)
  • Vert Lip Scrub- Full size (Rs.450/- for 10g)
  • The Green Meadow Lip Butter – Full size (Rs.400/- for 15ml)
  • Fuschia Verve Face Mask – Full size (Rs.450/- for 100g)

We have all 5 full sized products in this month’s My Envy Box! This has to be one of my favourite My Envy Boxes in a very long time!

Not only that, all products i.e. the lip butter, lip scrub, body scrub are perfect for the current winter season. My lips are dry as a desert currently and I am only surviving on lip scrubs and lip balms! So I am glad I got those two. Plus a good body scrub is always welcome to exfoliate those dead skin cells on the body.

Hair Protein Pack also sounds nice, this one has fenugreek, Bengal gram and all things good! Definitely trying this soon!

And last but not the least, Kiwi Asparagus Face Pack! I have never tried this combination but kiwi is super rich in Vitamin C, so I am definitely most excited to try this one.

I am super happy with this month’s My Envy Box, all products total up to Rs.2050/- and I have a 20% off discount coupon for you guys. I got a card in the box in which I found this discount coupon, use ‘REFER20‘ and get the box for Rs.680/-

Five full sized natural products for Rs.680/-, definitely a deal you don’t want to miss. I highly recommend this month’s My Envy Box.

What did you get in your My Envy Box?