Category Archives: Make Up

Olympia Beauty 2013

olympia beauty 2013 - somanylovelythings

This was my second time at Olympia Beauty. Just the idea of  over 520 beauty exhibitors under one roof is enough to make me forget how much I have walking around in crowds!

The show is free for professionals and I registered as press. On the day tickets for the general public can be bought on the day for £15.

This year the show didn’t disappoint. I was particularly impressed with their Press and Social Media Hubs – much bigger and better than last year’s, with more brands showcasing products – OPI, Dermalogica, Elemis, Lash Perfect/Hi Brow, Sienna X amongst others and a spacious area with refreshments (including cute Marc Jacobs Diet Coke bottles!)

The stands were fantastic! This year, a lot of gel manicures again, but also for domestic use and teeth whitening I think were the bigger presence for consumer products. Lashes and brows were also quite predominant!

Overview
The view from the mezzanine
So many things to see!
More stands!
Elemis launchs
Elemis launchs
Elemis launchs
Elemis best sellers
Lovely wax
Dermalogica new range
Dermalogica new range
Sothys
Sothys
Sothys
Nail, nails!
Hi Brow
OPI’s Xmas collection!
OPI’s Xmas collection!
Marc Jacobs Diet COke
Inglot
Teeth whitening on the spot!
The Pro Makeup shop amazing hygiene products!
Pros showing how it’s done!!!
Body painting
Body painting
Body painting
Body painting
Amazing jewelled make-up
Nailympics
Nailympics
Nailympics
Jazz nail polish
Jazz nail polish
Jazz nail polish
Massager! Great product!
Amy Childs
Amy Childs

Exhibitors were great – from huge brands for consumer (OPI, Elemis, Dermalogica, Ardell, Color Club, Essie, Fake Bake, Minx nail foils, NYX and many others!) offering discounted products to salon equipment and therapies machines to the professionals, and lots of and sample therapies going on.

I was very happy to se a bit more make up – Inglot and Illamasqua making an appearance. Although I was disappointed with Illamasqua – they were not selling products!

As usual, they held competitions – Nailympics – the international nail competition, The Art of Make-up and The Art of Body Painting.

The educational part of the show was even bigger too and was divided in “Business of Beauty”, “The Creativity of Nails”, “The Art of Make-up”, Make-up Artist Guest Stage” and “Aesthetic Beauty”, covering an amazing amount of topics around beauty and therapies.

As a blogger, it is great to get direct contact with brands. As a consumer, it is fantastic to pick up lots of great products at a very good price. As a beauty lover, and amazing opportunity to see what is going on in the market. It’s an overall win!

Needless to say, I came home with  bunch of products that will soon be gracing the blog – fun times!!!Always a pleasure to go, and I will for sure be there in 2014!

Product review: Stargazer Sexy Eyes temporary eye tattoo

stargazer temporary eye tattoo lace and bows - somanylovelythings

It is no secret I love my eyes BIG. The bigger and blacker, the better. Recently, I even attempted a crystal look (which I will come to in due time!) but today I tried Stargazer’s temporary eye tattoo Sexy Eyes in Rose and Bows.

stargazer temporary eye tattoo lace and bows - somanylovelythings

Should’ve stopped the cutting there, but nooooo…

And sexy they are. I really loved it. Application was dead easy. I must confess I did mess one up, but not applying – cutting! It will make sense soon, I promise!

You probably applied a temporary tattoo on yourself or somebody else; applying this is exactly the same – simply remove the transparent film and put that side you just removed the film from on to clean skin. Make sure you position it in the right place and gently dab a water-soaked cloth over the paper – make sure you don’t miss any bits. After the whole area is wet, wait 10 second and gently peel the white paper. Voilá. Gently dab the damp cloth over the design again.

stargazer temporary eye tattoo lace and bows - somanylovelythingsIt dries pretty quickly and feels great on the skin. I was worried it was going to pull after it dried, but it didn’t; I couldn’t even notice it was there. I filled the gap between my lash line and the tattoo with black and gold liner to complement the look.

Now, with Halloween just around the corner, if you are thinking about an amazing eye design that is very easy to achieve, look no further. This product is fantastic to complement pretty much any costume and they have many designs for you to choose from – all eyes here on Flame!!!stargazer temporary eye tattoo lace and bows - somanylovelythings

It is also a great alternative to masks for a masquerade ball – dare to be different and still very sexy, without having to carry the extra weight on your face (and hands once you get bored, the mask starts itching, you are fed up of not having peripheral vision… and the list goes on!).

You can add more details or extend the design using liquid eyeliner to create an even more intricate design.

Apart from that, this is also great for occasions when you want to go all out. I would probably cut it up smaller for a night out, but would definitely use it (I actually have another set – it is waiting for the right moment!)

And a little secret: this tattoos are very versatile – you can cut them up in at least three different places to create a more discreet effect. You can use it only on the lid or with a slim or large flick. Great!!!

stargazer temporary eye tattoo lace and bows - somanylovelythings

A few ways of cutting it for a great effect!

Removal was much easier than I thought – I used an oily make-up remover (Lancôme Bi Facil) and it came out with no vigorous rubbing. Thumbs up.

The best of all (yes, there is something almost better than all that): it only costs you £4. Yes. Four British pounds per set. Do not wait.

You can get these lovelies at the Stargazer website – do check all the designs, they are beautiful!

This post contains PR samples. This review, however, is based on my own true experience with the products and reflects my honest opinion on them.

Product review: Simple eye make-up corrector pen

simple eye make-up corrector pen - somanylovelythings

Even for proficient hands, we all know it is still hard to create the perfect eye liner flick. With me, when it goes wrong, it is always one side. It’s wonky. It’s too long. It’s off-centre. Well, Simple to the rescue with their magical wand: the eye make-up corrector pen.

The best use is indeed to fix the eyeliner: not only the flick but also the fatter-then-I-wanted line.

It is also a great weapon for all of you that haven’t yet mastered the art of applying eyeliner (although is almost intangible, really, I use it everyday and consider myself very good with it, but some days it goes wrong. There is no other way about it.). Instead of causing an even bigger mess, this little beauty wipes off the memories of that mistake and gives you the much needed fresh break.

simple eye make-up corrector pen - somanylovelythingsThe precise tip offers detailed correction. It is dead easy to use – but always remember to old the pen upside down for 10-15 seconds before use and clean the tip after using, for optimal results. Cleaning the tip (I used a bit of tissue) is very important especially if you are removing black eye liner – you gotta do it between strokes, otherwise diluted liner will transfer onto your face. having said that, the smudges were easily removed by pressing my finger on it, so very easy!

simple eye make-up corrector pen - somanylovelythings

What a tool for any make-up bag – especially on those days you top up make-up after work in the office – eyeliner is bound to go wrong when you are in a hurry.

Retired are my cotton buds+eye make-up remover for small fixes. This is the thing. It will also help you with that cut precise look on smokey eyes. Just swipe at a 90 degree angle from the outer corner and voilá. Hello sharp, defined shape.

Also, if you sneeze after applying mascara (who never?), this will help you get rid of the mess without interfering with the make-up!

It contains no alcohol or oils, no fragrance and vitamin B5. It’s a little make-up miracle for just under £5. You can get more information about the Simple eye make-up corrector pen on the Simple website. You can buy it from retailers nationwide!

This post contains PR samples. This review, however, is based on my own true experience with the products and reflects my honest opinion on them.

Product review: L’Oréal Paris Super Liner Brow Artist

loreal brow artiste - somanylovelythings

This little pencil from L’Oréal has everything you need to create a sharp, strong eyebrow; yes, I am talking about the new eye brow liner Super Liner Brow Artist.

The double ended pencil is one side brow pencil, the other side setting wax, with a neat brow brush on the cap. Very practical.

loreal brow artiste - somanylovelythings

I’ve been filling in my brows for quite a few years now, and whereas the first time I had it done I found it really odd, now I find there is something missing in my face if I don’t. It really frames your eyes, drawing attention to then – a nice arch will also open up the eye.

loreal brow artiste - somanylovelythings

The pencil side

I am using the 03 Brunette colour and it suits me very well. It makes creating a strong, sharp brow easier. The brow pencil is soft and well pigmented so it took me sometime to get used to making lighter strokes. If you are looking for a super statement brow, then this is your tool.

loreal brow artiste - somanylovelythings

The wax side

First, you fill the brow on the desired shape – I follow my natural shape, which is quite thick but sparse in terms of hair – I quite like it, and filling makes it very nice. Then, you use the brush to tidy it up and soften the colour. Finally, you set with the wax side of the pencil, especially around the edges, to stop it smudging and keep he hairs in place.

The durability is great and the effect is fantastic.

It costs less than £6 from various retailers in Fair Blonde, Blonde, Brunette and Dark Brunette and you can get more info about it on the L’Oréal Paris website, where they also have very useful how-to guides!

This post contains PR samples. This review, however, is based on my own true experience with the products and reflects my honest opinion on them.

Product review: Simple Kind to Skin+ Perfecting Beauty Balm (BB cream)

simple bb cream - somanylovelythings

Love the Kind to Skin+ package designs!

I must say, before anything, I am not a fan of BB creams. For someone like me, who looks for a full coverage, BB creams just don’t quite cut it.

I was, however, pleasantly surprised with Simple’s very first BBC cream, part of their Kind to Skin+ range.

What I really like about it is that, even though they only have one colour, it did blend extremely well on my face. And over at the event, there were a few bloggers, with different skin tones and they all seem to share this opinion. Also, the coverage is very good. One day, I even wore it on its on (with a bit of powder to set) and it was fine!

It blends very well, absorbs quickly and the finish is very sheer and natural; in terms of colour and coverage is great!

I also tried it as a primer. This worked alright, it didn’t actually make the make-up last longer (which is not really this product’s job, but hey, gotta try!), but made it look good.

simple bb cream - somanylovelythings

Well pigmented, very good coverage

The thing I don’t like about this is that it has light reflecting particles. Although I am a massive fan of the glow they give, because of my skin condition, any shimmer will only make scars more evident, so I have been using matte products only for a very long time now.

For this reason alone,  I don’t think this product is particularly suitable for me. Had the particles not been there, I think Simple could probably have made me change my mind about BB creams. Now, that is something!

As other Simple products, it is suitable for sensitive skin; it has no fragrance (love that – again!), SPF 15, ginger root extract, bisabolol, sweet almond and sunflower seed oils.

If you have much better skin than me (which most people do anyway), I think this is a little gem – and for an RRP of £8.99, you should definitely try (currently at Superdrug for £5.99!!!). It is an item of make-up that also cares for your skin and will give you that nice glow!

simple bb cream - somanylovelythings

This is the kind of lovely glow this product gives your skin!

You can find more information on the Simple website.

This post contains PR samples. This review, however, is based on my own true experience with the products and reflects my honest opinion on them.

Eye make-up look challenge: electric blue, acid yellow

blue and yellow eye make-up - somanylovelythingsWhen this little YSL eyeshadow duo reached me, I knew I had to create a look using both together. I love the brightness in this Ombre duolumieres in 37 – electric yellow and royal blue.

The pigmentation is good, I had to put quite a bit of yellow to build it up. The combination is just great! I decided to do an exaggerated cat eye and add a blue eyebrow – why not?!

blue and yellow eye make-up - somanylovelythingsHave to say I did this pretty quick, about 10 minutes per eye, and here is how I did it:

1. I prepped my lid and using a pencil brush I applied the blue creating a smokey line on about 3/4 above my crease, pulling it at the edges to create the huge flick at the end.

2. From the other corner, I pulled another line to meet the one coming from the crease, and filled the shape with blue, but just on the flick, not on lids.

3. Using an applicator brush, I saturated the whole lid with yellow, blending the edges with the blue on the crease then pulling the colour towards the temple, within the blue, creating a similar shape to the blue.

4. Using a liner brush, I applied blue on the lower water and lash lines. I applied some yellow to the inner corner and blended in with the blue.

5. I then, with the pencil brush, brought the above the crease blue line to the inside of my nose bridge, creating a subtle hook shape below the inner corner. I then carefully applied a little bit of yellow on the inside of this line.

6. I applied a highlighter to the brow bone.

6. I added some mascara to my lashes and then a set of false lashes.

7. Finally, I filled my eyebrows with the royal blue, keeping the strong shape but giving it more definition and colour, of course!

Products I used:

  • Yves Saint Laurent Ombre Duolumieres eyeshadow duo in 37 – electric yellow and royal blue
  • MAC pigment in vanilla
  • MAC Extended Play extra black mascara
  • Blank Canvas double ended brushes E23, E25, E27 and E30
  • MAC brush 208
  • Eldora false lashes in H149
  • Duo eyelash glue
  • Urban Decay eyeshadow primer potion

make-up

Difficulty:

eye make up look - easy

On trial: Budget make-up brush cleaning glove

budget make-up brush cleaning glove - somanylovelythingsProcrastination is a word directly related to brush wash in my books. No, I don’t like dirty brushes, on the contrary, I feel really disgusted and want to wash them all the time. Plus, a clean brush applies make-up way much better than a manky one. And there is the question of hygiene and harbouring bacteria… eeeew, don’t wanna get into that.

So I decided to look for ways of making my job quicker and came across brush cleaning mitts. The best known is probably the Sigma Spa Brush Cleaning Glove but at US$35, I find it is quite pricey for what it is.

And that’s another reason I love reading other blogs: came across an “alternative”, posted by Make-up Savvy – a cheap and cheerful silicone oven glove from eBay which does the job just as well.

budget make-up brush cleaning glove - somanylovelythings

The foundation brush is the worst offender, permeated with stick liquid in a faded skin colour and cleaning that wasn’t as painful, at a fraction of the time. The glove has texture which helps clean the bristles and the smaller ones towards the wrist are alright for smaller brushes, like eyes.

The bumps did a much better job than my fingers or a plate to get rid of make-up from the brushes – and my hands didn’t get wet! Win all around!

I am not gonna lie and say it made me LOVE cleaning my brushes, but the fact it made it faster is encouraging.

budget make-up brush cleaning glove - somanylovelythings

Oh, yeah, and it cost me under £3,50 with delivery from eBay (which arrived very quickly!!!). Thumbs (in glove) up!

Product review: Glō Minerals lipstick

glo minerals lipstick siren - somanylovelythingsTo me, the colour on this lovely glō Minerals lipstick is better described as an old coral. It’s name is Siren and for some reason I find it quite appropriate.

This came in my glō box a while ago and has seen a lot of outings since. For a red lipstick wearer, this lippy represents a lighter option for day without going to pale.

The lipstick applies really well, it is very pigmented, glides nicely and has an ok smell – it is almost imperceptible, to be honest, and it is not sweet.

It s finish is something close to matt, but a little satin-y. It has good staying power; I like it that when it fades it leaves a bit of a stain behind, so the lips still have some colour.

Click on the images to enlarge

Lipstick in Siren and micro lip liner in Pale Magenta
Detail of the micro lip liner in Pale Magenta
On my lips – pretty!

This didn’t dry my lips and sometimes I use it with the glō Minerals Micro Lip liner in Pale Magenta, which is a good colour to wear with pinks and pinky corals. The liner glides and blends well with the colour, not interfering. I use it with MAC’s Impassionate too!

Packaging is very nice, just like their mascara: matte and shiny silver with a really nice weight to it.

Overall a good lippy and liner – and they have other great colours to.

To purchase the glō Minerals lipsticks and liners in these and many more colours, head to the glō Minerals website, where you will also find other great products, such as the glōLash Lengthening mascara and the glō Minerals Ultra brush (which I LOVE!).

This post contains PR samples. This review, however, is based on my own true experience with the products and reflects my honest opinion on them.

Product review: Blank Canvas Cosmetics Double ended eye brush set

My love for make-up brushes is no secret. Since I got my first brush set (a special edition MAC face basics), I could never let go.

So it is not surprise I was extremely excited to try this handy double ended set of eye brushes from Blank Canvas Cosmetics – and what an introduction to the brand it was!

The set contains five brushes and they are all double ended, meaning you have a pro kit of eye brushes in a very slim case – and only five brushes. They are  Double Ended Pencil/Flat Shader Brush( E23/24), Blending Duo (E25/26), Double Ended Mini Detailer/Eyeliner (E27/28), Double Ended Tapered Crease Blender/Smudger (E32/33) and the Double Ended Brow/Spoolie (E30).

This is perfect to have on the go or on holidays! And the quality of the tools does not disappoint – on touch, they really reminded of my MAC brushes.  And upon use, the impression didn’t fade, especially the pencil brush (a favorite of mine for precision smoking) and the flat shader (a daily staple), which are in the same brush! The bristles are soft when they need to be, harder but gentle whey they need to be they are precise.

If I have to point out one very minor issue is that, beacuse they are double ended, sliding the brush into the elastic band holder within the case it a bit tricky, just to avoid hitting the bristles in it and damaging them. Maybe a clip holder would be better! However, I’ve been keeping them loose in the case (it is so slim they barely move anyway!).

This kit retails for £56.09, a great value of less than £6 per brush type, and guaranteed to cater for all your eye make-up needs!

Overall, I am chuffed with this set – I’ve used it so much already – and glad it came my way.

To get your hands on one of the Double ended eye brush set, go to the Blank Canvas Cosmetics website  – you can also check out their wider selection!

This post contains PR samples. This review, however, is based on my own true experience with the products and reflects my honest opinion on them.

Product review: Glō Minerals Smoky eye kit

glo minerals eye shadow quad - somanylovelythingsMy wonderful glō Minerals box came with this lovely eyeshadow quad called Smoky eye kit, which contains great neutrals great for everyday wear.

Packaging is nice and compact, great for your make-up bag and comes with a mirror and a guide for the use of colours.

The pigmentation is good, the lighter base colour is really subtle beige with a sheen. The lid colour is a mink shade, with a lovely golden sheen to it. Then the crease colour is a matte (but verging on satin) light brown  and the darkest liner colour is an almost black brown. Brushes pick the product well with little mess.

I used the darker eye liner colour to smoke it even more and give more depth for evening wear, so this is a good day-to-night transition palette.

As with the other glo Minerals I received (gloLash and Ultra brush), I have been using this almost everyday!

You can get the glō Smoky eyes kit and many other items from the glō Minerals UK website.

This post contains PR samples. This review, however, is based on my own true experience with the products and reflects my honest opinion on them.