My love for beauty products runs deep. No matter how hard I resist I always want to try more, see what's new and discover real beauty gems. Last month my spending was restrained as I got a lil debit card happy during a few too many social occasions including a very boozy bank holiday weekend. But this didn't stop me from reviving an old eyeshadow palette from within the deep depths of my IKEA Alex drawers and dropping a few pounds in my local Boots. And I've found four you-need-to-try beauty products, all tried, tested, loved and recommend by moi.
All hail L’Oreal and their new Voluminous Lash Paradise mascara. Their latest release bears a striking resemblance to the infamous Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara, but its better and less than half the price. I usually turn a blind eye to mascaras with large fluffy wands, I always tend to gravitate towards the plastic kind that separate and lengthen. But L’Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara is an exception to the rule. Lash-curlers aren't required and just a couple of coats immediately makes my lashes appear longer and fuller without leaving them looking clumpy. It's not as buildable as Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara, but it's not necessary tbh, as one to two coats does the job. In terms of lasting power it doesn't smudge on me top or bottom. One of the best drugstore mascaras I've tried and one to add to your makeup bag right now.
Not only does this bronzer straight up smells like cookies thanks to its infusion of antioxidant-rich cocoa powder, its shimmer-free and not too warm, so perfect for contouring and creating an all-over tan. I received a mini sample in a Too Faced order and soon enough I'd hit pan and purchased the full-sized compact. For a sunkissed look (which my skin is currently craving) I apply the bronzer with a light hand where the sun would naturally hit; forehead, cheeks, nose and chin. If you want to fool your friends and colleagues into thinking you've spent a week at the beach, this is the bronzer for you.
I have a substantial number of eyeshadow palettes (all justifiable purchases), so it will come to no surprise that not all are used on the regular. And one untouched palette that has sadly been collecting dust in my stash is the Huda Beauty Textured Shadows Palette - Rose Gold Edition. Why it has taken me until now to dip into the 18 gorgeous warm toned shadows I do not know. And tragically my new found love affair may be short lived as Huda has announced the palette is being discontinued following the launch of the highly anticipated Huda Beauty Desert Dusk Palette, which launches next month and I'm gutted. The Huda Beauty Textured Shadows Palette - Rose Gold Edition contains a mix of matte, metallic, shimmer and glitter shadows that are highly pigmented and blend beautifully with little to no fallout, with the exception of the pressed glitters which can only be applied with fingers. There's no doubt it will be complete anarchy as we all try to get our hands on the new palette, but in the meantime, I will continue to show Huda Rose Gold Edition some serious lovin'.
Deciem's The Ordinary has stolen many of our hearts this year (including mine) drawing us in with the promises of their inexpensive skincare solutions. And one product that has been working wonders for me is their The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG. The serum is lightweight and immediately absorbs and most importantly it contains a high 5% concentration of caffeine. Caffeine 'perks up' the skin and stimulates circulation and is also a vasoconstrictor (narrows blood vessels) which is claims to help reduce the appearance of puffy eyes and dark circles. After just a couple of weeks applying AM and PM my under eye bags and dark circles are noticeably reduced and less concealer has been required. I'm impressed. Believe the buzz guys - if you haven't already.
What beauty products have you been loving recently that I should try?