Tag Archives: Linda

Catrice Ultimate Lip Color 490 Plum & Base Review, Swatches

Catrice Ultimate Lip Color 490 Plum & Base Review, Swatches

Catrice Ultimate Lip Color 490 Plum & Base Review, Swatches

By Linda

Hey Ladies,

Today’s review is about a lipstick from the Brand CATRICE. This if my first purchase Catrice. There are around 15 shades in Ulimate Lip Color range of lipsticks, suitable for most of the skin tones. I wasn’t sure if I could carry a plum shade, hence decided to give it a try and now it’s in my collection of lipsticks. As I tried on the shade I was amazed with the texture and finish of the product on my lips. So let’s know more about this product.

Claims and Packaging:

  • Highly pigmented lipstick
  • Supple, creamy texture
  • Long-lasting
  • Vegan

The CATRICE Ultimate Lip Color is packed in a Black Shiny lipstick tube container with the shade mentioned on the bottom of the container. It wasn’t packed in any lipstick carton. It is light weight can be easily carried along. The expiry date (36M) and other information is mentioned on the lipstick container. Unfortunately there aren’t any ingredients mentioned on the lipstick container.

Ingredients: Octyldodecanol, pentaerythrityl tetraisostearate, diisostearyl malate, Polybutene, polyethylene, vp/hexadecene copolymer, euphorbia cerifera (candelilla) wax, methoxy peg-17/methoxy peg-11/hdi isocyanurate trimer, Crosspolymer, cera microcristallina (microcrystalline wax), ozokerite, Dicalcium phosphate, lauroyl lysine, argania spinosa kernel oil, tocopheryl Acetate, helianthus annuus (sunflower) seed oil, camelina sativa seed oil,
Euterpe oleracea fruit oil, tocopherol, olus oil (vegetable oil), Disteardimonium hectorite, propylene carbonate, silica, mica, tin oxide, citric Acid, aroma (flavor), ci 15850 (red 7 lake), ci 15985 (yellow 6 lake), ci 42090 (blue 1
Lake), ci 77491 (iron oxides), ci 77891 (titanium dioxide).

Price: 2.250 KD (Approx 470 INR) for 3.8g

My take on CATRICE Ultimate Lip Color

This is a plum to mauve kind of a shade with a berry undertone. The lipstick is smooth on application and creamy in texture, without stretching the lips. It’s highly pigmented and the shade can be buildable. A single swipe is enough to evenly transfer the color on to the lips effortlessly. On multiple swipes you can achieve a deep color without looking vampy.

The shape of the bullet is good enough to outline the lips, hence a liner may not be needed. What I like about this product is, it gives a semi-gloss, moisturized finish. I feel my lips are not dried or rather chapped after few hours of application. The coverage is good enough to stain your entire lip. I normally smudge the product on my finger tip and then dab it on my lips to get a stain of the shade on my lips

This shade is ideal for a day time and night/ indoor occasions. I personally feel this shade would look amazing for any indoor events/ black n white photo shoot.

I’m not very happy with the stay power, as you would definitely require a retouch after you eat or drink, as the lipstick would transfer. On several swipes it does stay put but not beyond 4-5 hours but it does stains your lips

I would say this is worth the cost. Suitable for most of the skin tones and matured skin. If you are someone who likes matte lipsticks then this is not for you.

Pros:

  • Budget friendly
  • Good coverage/buildable
  • Creamy texture
  • Shade suits most of the skin tones.
  • Glides on smoothly
  • Does not bleed

Cons:

  • Poor Staying power ( need to reapply)
  • It does transfer on the cups/glasses
  • Not sure about availability in India

Rating: 4/5

Would I repurchase CATRICE Ultimate Lip Color Lipstick? Yes, if you are looking for semi glossy deep berry undertone shade.

Rimmel London Lasting Finish Lipstick 050 Paradise Review, Swatches

Rimmel London Lasting Finish Lipstick 050 Paradise Review, Swatches

By Linda

Hello Ladies,

I’m back with another Rimmel London product review. This seems to be one of my favorite drug store brands since they have high quality products for an affordable price. The varieties of shades are pretty good enough to match most of the skin tones from cool to warm. I’m shade NC 41 and it matched perfectly on my skin. The shade I’m about to review is an earthy peach to brown shade with a slight sheen to it. Some of the earthy shades gives a flat look to our lip or rather makes your lip look thinner, hence we need to top it with a gloss or a lip liner. But in case of this shade it’s a little different as compared to other nude/ earthy shades. Lasting finish lipsticks are available at nykaa .com but I’m not sure if this shade is available in India. Let’s know more..

Claims: Intense long lasting color for up to 8 hours wear
• +25% color impact
• Smooth creamy texture
• All day comfort

Price: 374 INR for 4g

Package, Shade and Texture

This lipstick is packed in a light weight, plastic lipstick container. The shade and the shade number is mentioned at the bottom. There is no other information provided.

The shade is a classic earthy peach/brown with ultra fine shimmer that gives a beautiful sheen on application. It is not intensely pigmented but enough to transfer the shade onto the lips.

It has a smooth creamy texture, very soft on application and moisturizes the lips throughout.

My take on Rimmel London Lasting Finish Lipstick


This shade is more on the warmer side, perfect for all time .I definitely carry this lipstick along with me since it a safe shade, what I mean by safe shade is, if you are not able to makeup your mind as to the shade to apply , then this shade is definitely a saver. You can wear at work/ interview/ wedding /formal /casual functions. I’m in love with this shade. The sheen just gives a chic look , you don’t even need a gloss nor a highlighter to enhance your lips.

It has a slight pleasant fragrance to it but non irritating .A tad bit amount transfer to cups/ glasses but that’s acceptable. (for me at least :D)

I do wear this lipstick along with a lip liner from Rimmel London in the shade Spice, in order to achieve a clean finish. Not highly pigmented as I mentioned. I’m not happy with stay power , it would only last for 3-4 hours if you are not eating and drinking. Retouch is needed. My lips would never dry out on applying this shade. Very comfortable and light on the skin, as it claims.

Pros:

  • Wearable Shade for most skin tones and age groups
  • Creamy texture
  • Glides on smoothly
  • Does not bleed
  • Moisturizes the lips through out
  • Provides slight sheen on application
  • Long lasting.

Cons:

  • Availability in India
  • Poor Staying power, needs retouch

Rating: 4.5/5

Would I repurchase Rimmel London Lasting Finish Lipstick (Shade 050 Paradise)? Definitely Yes

SpectraBan Sunscreen [STIEFEL] for Sensitive Skin SPF 30 Review

SpectraBan Sunscreen [STIEFEL] for Sensitive Skin SPF 30 Review

By Linda

Hello Ladies,

Today I’m presenting an essential product that has become a necessity, in fact a must in my CTM routine. The product I’m talking about is a sunscreen cream known as SpectraBan Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin SPF 30 [a product by STIEFEL]. Let me brief you up as to how I got to know about this product. My skin is supersensitive and often I suffer from eczema (a skin condition) during fluctuating weathers. I live in the middle-east, where the weathers conditions are from extreme summers and to chilly winter. During summers, even after sunset the temperatures are up to 39 -41 degrees. I did not realize that such weather conditions would affect me skin. My dermatologist suggested using this sunscreen along with other body lotions and hydrocortisone creams. He also insisted me to use this cream throughout the day. Believe me I had excellent results from this product. It was a complete life saver for me. Let’s get into the details of this product.

Product Claims:

• Sunscreen For Sensitive Skin ANTI-UVA & UVB – SPF 30, PA++
• Broad spectrum UV protection
• Double moisturizing factors
• Non-comedogenic
• Hypoallergenic
• Water resistant

Ingredients:

Packaging and Texture

This product is dispensed in a plastic tube packaging. Travel friendly size. Various sizes are available. The product is fragrance free. Spreads smoothly over the skin on application and absorbed into the skin in seconds. The texture is not thick enough like other creams and not too runny like lotions.

Cost: 260 /-INR for 30gms

My take on SpectraBan Sunscreen [STIEFEL] for Sensitive Skin SPF 30:

I always begin with moisturizing my skin well, wait for few seconds for the moisturizer to seep in and then the dot my face,neck and other exposed areas with this sunscreen and gently massage it. I noticed it did not grease my skin at all and did not form a white cast over my skin that normally tends to happen with other sunscreen creams. My dermatologist instructed to go outdoors 20 minutes after application of sunscreen.

Also Read: 10 Best Sunscreens for Different Skin Types in India, Prices, Buy Online

The cream is so soft and smooth over the skin that most of the time that I skip the step of a moisturizer. I have also applied this sunscreen while I go for swimming, believe me I had no tan at all, maybe it really worked for my skin. I have also used this sunscreen below foundation and this did not grease for atleast good 2-3 hours outdoors, in spite of layering several products. But later it does turn out to be greasy depending on the quality of your foundation.
So this was my experience with this product, I hope you all try it and let me know how it worked for you all.

Pros:

  • Budget friendly
  • Water resistant (can be used while swimming)
  • Can be used on sensitive skin
  • Fragrance free
  • No skin irritations
  • Travel friendly
  • Available in various sizes

Cons:

  • Can’t find of any

Rating: 5/5

Would I recommend SpectraBan Sunscreen [STIEFEL] for Sensitive Skin SPF 30 ? Definitely Yes!!! For super sensitive skin it is a good product.

Editor’s Note: Wow, this sounds amazing Linda. Especially for swimmers, and so affordable. I will surely check this out.

Have you tried SpectraBan Sunscreen?

IsaDora Twist-Up Matt Lips Super Pink, Queen of Roses, Purple Prune Review, Swatches

IsaDora Twist-Up Matt Lips Super Pink, Queen of Roses, Purple Prune Review, Swatches

By Linda

Hello Ladies,

Hope you all are glamorous as always. Here is another review of three shades of lipstick (we all cannot live without lipsticks).There has been an uprising demand for matte colors for a past few years. And as per my experience, bright bold colors look at its best when available in matte textures. Unfortunately I struggle with matte shades since I have dry lips and that would chap on application of matte lipsticks (be it high end ones too). Eventually I would get irritated and take off the lipstick.

I started looking for lipsticks that would give me matte finish and at the same time also moisture my lips throughout. And this is how I came across Isa Dora Matt Twist Up Lipstick. This is easily available at drug stores. There are total 13 shades in this range but I will be reviewing shade 58 Super Pink, 64 Queen of Roses, 66 Purple Prune.

What IsaDora Claims: Twist-up Matt Lips is a creamy yet lightweight lipstick that gives a velvet matte finish to your lips. Intense and long lasting formula. Infused with moisturizing and protective ingredients for a comfortable wear – no dry feeling.

Contains: Papaya fruit extract, Orchid flower extract Fragrance free. Clinically tested

Packaging and Texture

These lipsticks come in a retractable twist and turn jumbo pen (as the product name). The shade of lipstick can be easily seen on the cap and the bottom of the lipstick tube. Light weight, can be easily carried where ever you go.

The texture of this product is extremely soft and creamy on application without pulling your lips. Highly pigmented with minimal transfer. The tip of the lipstick helps you to easily define your lip line. No sharpener is required since the tip is shaped in a special manner.

Cost: 7 KWD (INR 1190 on Nykaa and Shoppers Stop stores) for 3.3 g/.11 oz

My take on these lippies

These lipsticks can be used for everyday use or for any occasions depending on the look you need to carry. It does feel velvety on application and long lasting pigmented shade for good 4-5 hours. My lips felt moisturized throughout. It did seep into the fine lines of my lips initially but blotting with tissue paper will help. Tad bit amount would transfer on the cups upon drinking. I did not require a lip liner as this product did not smudge at all.

The three shades I picked are

L-R: Super Pink, Queen of Roses, Purple Prune

Shade 58 Super Pink: A bubble gum pink shade. Looks amazing for a day time look.

Shade 64 Queen of Roses: This shade has a red pink undertone. I’m totally in love with this shade. It’s buildable, and you can achieve a deep color on several swipes. I dab it around my cheeks too to get a flushed cheek look. Highly recommend this shade, as most of the skin tones can carry it.

Shade 66 Purple Prune: This is a medium berry shade with purple undertones. This shade can be worn all day but I personally prefer wearing dark shades for evening or night time occasions.

Super Pink
Queen of Roses
Purple Prune

Pros

  • Velvet Matte Finish
  • Creamy, soft application
  • Light weight packaging
  • No sharpener required
  • Shades available can be used by most of the skintones
  • Travel friendly, light weight packaging
  • Long-lasting

Cons

  • Little expensive
  • Could settle in the fine lines

Overall, I feel these are quite good. The packaging is interesting, the shades are nice and I definitely recommend these.

Rating: 3.75/5

Have you tried the IsaDora Twist Up Matt Lips?

RIMMEL LONDON Exaggerate Waterproof Eye Definer 26 Noir Review, Swatches

RIMMEL LONDON Exaggerate Waterproof Eye Definer 26 Noir Review, Swatches

By Linda

Hey Ladies,

Hope you all are doing good and gorgeous as always. It’s been a while for me with reviews, caught up with some personal issues. But now I am all ready to bring on all the reviews and products to you lovely ladies .So today’s review is of eyeliner from Rimmel London called Exaggerate Waterproof Eye definer.

Shade 26 Noir (Black). This is my to go eyeliner be it for a Smokey look , regular kajal or eyeliner. So let’s move ahead and find out how this product worked for me.

Product Claims: Glide-on full colour definition
Soft creamy texture in a retractable pencil with built-in smudger for subtle blending and sharpener for high precision line.
Waterproof formula for up to 10 hours long lasting wear.
Choose your shade from creamy matte to high metallic, all so intensely pigmented.
Dermatologist & ophthalmologist tested.

Packaging and Texture

I love the packaging of this product .It is a retractable pencil that has a smudger & sharpener on the other end of the pencil. Lightweight can be easily carried in your purse. The cap fits well tightly over the product and the smduger, hence maintaining the product from harsh temperatures and dust particles.

The shade is intense black and the product is soft creamy on application and glides smoothly over the eyelids and waterline.

Cost: Approximately INR 320 [1.500 KWD] for 0.28g

Usage : 30 months after opening

My take on RIMMEL LONDON Exaggerate Waterproof Eye definer:

I’m extremely satisfied with this eyeliner in regards for a daily wear purpose .It glides on smoothly onto to your eyelids and water line without much effort. Multiple swipes are required to attain the intensity of the product. Over the eyelids it finishes to a matte product. It did not irritate my sensitive eyes at all.

I’m a little disappointed in regards to waterproof claim of the product, if you have oily lids it will definitely smudge over your crease line , so it’s best to well prime or rather powder your eye lids to counteract your oily eyelids and avoid further smudging. It did stay put over the waterline through out.

The product can easily come off with an eye makeup remover without damaging you eyelashes. The smudger provided is soft enough to smudge the product over the eyelid (upper and lower) and to achieve a basic smokey look in seconds. I haven’t used the sharpner as yet. Do not retract the product too much as it might break hence waste of product

With this product you can achieve desired lines of thickness. I don’t think it’s is ideal for winged eyeliner since its difficult to achieve neat defined with this eyeliner, probably with the help of an angular brush you can achieve .I love to use it over the waterline as it remains intact for about 3-4 hours.

Pros:

  • Budget friendly
  • No eye irritation (can be used along with contact lenses)
  • Travel friendly
  • Has smudger and sharpener as well
  • Well pigmented.
  • Products last a long way

Cons:

  • Can smudge a little over oily eyelids
  • Availability
  • Not ideal for a winged eyeliner.

Rating: 4/5

Would I recommend RIMMEL LONDON Exaggerate Waterproof Eye definer? Yes!!! For the quality of the product and for provision of a smudger and sharper, it’s worth the buy.

BOOTS Fragrance Free Eye Make-Up Remover Lotion Review

BOOTS Fragrance Free Eye Make-Up Remover Lotion Review

By Linda

Hello Ladies,

Today I’m presenting yet another essential product and a must have for all the ladies who love makeup. We ladies just don’t leave a chance to apply makeup, be it a party or any occasion, with great dedication we try to create all the possible looks, layering all the pigments to achieve that certain look we desire.

But once we return home we feel extremely lazy to get rid of all makeup we applied. At this moment we need a product that helps us get rid off all the color on us within seconds and without much effort , at the same time not damaging our beautiful and delicate skin around our eyes. Keeping this in mind today’s review is about a Fragrance free eye makeup remover lotion that I picked up from Boots outlet.

Unfortunately Boots outlet is not there in India. As I always say in most of my reviews I have sensitive eczema skin condition that is sensitive to perfume, hence I decided to pick this product since its suitable for sensitive skin plus its fragrance free. So let’s know more about this eye makeup remover.

Note: Please make it a practice to remove all your makeup before you hit the bed before you sleep.

Product Claims:

  • Suitable for sensitive skin or skin allergic to perfumes: Initially when you apply the product you will notice a faint fragrance but that will vanish in seconds. My skin is sensitive to perfumes and I personally did not face any irritations
  • Gently but effectively removes all traces of makeup even; even water proof: Yes totally agree with this claim, as it totally removes the all of the mascara (3 coats) , brow gel and pigments I apply.
  • Vitamin enriched

Directions: Apply with cotton wool and wipe over closed eyes.

Ingredients: Paraffinum liquidum, Poloxamer 184, Tocopheryl acetate, Retinyl palmitate.

Packaging and Texture

This lotion comes in a plastic opaque, off white bottle and a screw cap with the lid can be flipped open. I would say its travel friendly. Being a lotion formulation it has cream like thick consistency .The product can be easily taken on the finger tip and it does not even drip.

Cost: Approximately INR 130 [.500 KWD] for 150mL. [Discounted Rate].

My take on BOOTS Fragrance Free Eye Make-Up Remover:

On application of this lotion on the eye area, it spreads smoothly without smearing the makeup shabbily. A pea sized amount is required for both the eyes. I massage this lotion gently around my eyes,eye lashes and over my eye brows , wait for a few seconds for the makeup remover to do the job, Then with the help of a tissue paper or cotton ball wipe off the makeup following one direction. Please be a gentle since area around eyes are delicate.

Water proof mascara and brow gel tend to make your eyelashes and eyebrows brittle, So it’s advisable to be very gently while wiping off the makeup in these areas. Honestly speaking I do use this eye makeup remover all over my face once I finish with removing the eye makeup. I dot this lotion on my entire face and neck , gently massaged it for a minute and wipe off the makeup with a tissue. I do need to wash my face since it makes your face oily. So washing with a mild face wash would be recommended.

I’ve been using this product for about a year and haven’t had any break outs, skin irritation or any eye allergies. If you are looking for a budget friendly makeup remover for sensitive skin then definitely you must try this product.

Pros

  • Budget friendly
  • Can be also used on face
  • Can be used on sensitive skin
  • Fragrance free
  • No skin irritations
  • Travel friendly
  • Small amount works long way

Cons

  • Makes your skin oily (washing required)
  • Not available in India

Rating: 4/5

Would I recommend BOOTS Fragrance Free Eye Make-Up Remover? Yes!!! For the benefits and price you should definitely try this eye makeup remover.

Editor’s Note: This sounds really good, I have very sensitive eyes, will definitely buy it next time I am oustide India.

Have you guys tried the Boots Eye Makeup Remover?

Rimmel London Lasting Finish 25H Nude Foundation Review

Rimmel London Lasting Finish 25H Nude Foundation Review

By Linda

Hey,

Happy New Year to all you beautiful ladies out there…So today I will be a reviewing my first product for the year 2017 and it’s a drugstore liquid foundation from the brand RIMMEL LONDON.I was looking for a daily wear, low cost foundation mainly for work and outings, a product that is lighter and suitable for my combination skin. This is the first time I tried a foundation from this brand, otherwise I normally buy lipsticks and nail paints as they have good range of shades.

They have two launches in the 25 H lasting foundation range,

1. Lasting finish original foundation (Red cap)

2. Lasting finish nude foundation (white cap).

When I visited the drugstore counter I did not find the lasting finish original foundation may be I missed it. Hence I cannot speak much about the former product. So let begin with the later one that’s Lasting Finish 25H Nude Foundation.

There are six shades available in the nude foundation range: 010 Light Porcelain, 100 Ivory, 200 Soft Beige, 201 Classic Beige, 303 True Nude and 400 Natural Beige.

What RIMMEL LONDON Claims: Medium coverage foundation that feels hydrating and moisturizing. Light weight formula blends instantly into the skin creating a nude, poreless effect. As per my experience this product did stick to what it claimed in regards to coverage,application and finish. Sweat, heat ,humidity and transfer proof for up to 25 hours. Coverage that won’t let you down. Dermatological tested.SPF 20. It does have a fragrance which is not mentioned.

Packaging

This foundation is formulated in a glass bottle with a pump dispenser and a cap that fits on top. The pump dispenser is very convenient which dispense considerable amount of product in one puff. Unfortunately the ingredients are not mentioned on the bottle.

Cost: Approximately INR 1030 [4.6 KWD] for 30mL.

My take on RIMMEL LONDON LASTING FINISH 25H NUDE FOUNDATION

I have a medium to fair skin tone; combination / sensitive skin. The closest suitable shade I picked up was 303 True Nude. I’m a little disappointed with the limited range of shades as I found this shade to be a tad bit darker on my skin tone and the previous shade to this was lighter for my warm skin tone. On application at first the foundation blended smoothly and effortlessly in to the skin. My skin evened out giving a clean smooth finish. It seeps into your skin within seconds covering the pores and minor discolorations. So definitely a concealor is required for dark spots, circles or blemishes if any. I did lock the foundation with the compact powder. This foundation is buildable, so begin with a minimal amount and gradually increase if you require more coverage.

It does claim 25H lasting finish but honestly I do not prefer carrying makeup on my skin for more than 10 hours so I did not test if it lasts for 25 hours. I noticed it really lasts long for approximately 8-9 hours but after 3 hours my skin did show oiliness on my T-zone. But throughout it gives you fresher looking skin

It is ideal for work and also suitable for clubbing , parties as it doesn’t not flash on photographs, neither creases nor it oxidises and even does not look cakey. During extreme winters or summers I tend to develop dry skin patches on my skin but on application none of these spots were highlighted and no skin irritations were developed.

Advise you to well mositurize and prime your skin along with powder for long lasting results. If you are looking for a daily wear long lasting foundation then this foundation is worth the money. I applied this product during the day time and outdoors and noticed it did not oxidise and remained throughout but yes the oiliness did appear so it’s not 100 percent sweat proof. Works well with a beauty blender or sponge applicator rather than a brush.

Pros:

  • Evens out the skin
  • Pump dispenser( you can control the amount of product)
  • Long lasting during summers (8-9 hours)
  • Doesn’t give a cakey look
  • Photo friendly
  • Reasonable price
  • Works well during summers and winters
  • SPF 20

Cons:

  • Not travel friendly (glass bottle)
  • Medium coverage
  • Limited range of shades
  • Availability (in India)

Rating: 3.5/5

Would I recommend RIMMEL LONDON LASTING FINISH 25H NUDE FOUNDATION? If you are on a budget and beginner with makeup then you should try this foundation.

Editor’s Note: This sounds pretty good for daily use. I would love to give it a try.

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?

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?

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?