2012Lost In Lipstick | A Beauty & Lifestyle Blog: 2012

Tuesday 25 December 2012

Merry Christmas from Lost In Lipstick

I just wanted to post a quick post to wish everyone a Merry Christmas. I hope you all have a lovely day. Enjoy your day with your friends and family and everyone else you love. Did Father Christmas bring you everything you wanted? I got lots of beauty products that I cannot wait to share with you all!

Merry Christmas

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

P.S. What are your new years resolutions? I need to start thinking about mine! Although mine will probably be to find more time to blog!

Wednesday 19 December 2012

MUA Brow Kit - Review





I'll start this post by stating the fact that I hate eyebrows! Mine are just like my hair; wild, unruly and curly! This means they are extremely difficult to groom and tend to do their own thing! My eyebrows are fairly thick as well. I don't always have to use something on them just certain days and only in certain areas of my brow. The start of my eyebrows are a darker shade of blonde but have gaps in them, I'm not sure if this is due to over plucking when I was younger or not. Then the ends of my eyebrows are very thin and are very fair, this is definitely due to over plucking. The moral of the story is do NOT over pluck!

I began using an eyebrow pencil a few years ago, which was No7 in blonde. Again this wasn't everyday, usually just when I could be bothered. I was aware of my eyebrows from quite a young age and other people's for that matter! I just seem to always notice eyebrows, good or bad! I knew I should not apply the pencil in one long stroke, instead I used small feather like strokes. Besides looking like I only have half an eyebrow on some photos, I didn't really make any huge mistakes when I was younger when it comes down to eyebrows.

Some days though, mostly special occasions and nights out, I want to try and make everything perfect and your eyebrows frame your face. Or some days I just get carried away! (I love applying make up!) It's days like this when I pull out MUA's Brow Kit. MUA launched their Brow Kit in September. I actually bought it then but I wanted to thoroughly try it out before I blogged about it. Then I moved house and everything was hectic but here it is!

When I saw it on sale for £3.50, I couldn't resist. I hadn't used an eyebrow kit before so it was perfect to see how much I actually used it and if I preferred it over a pencil. The packaging matches other MUA products and for £3.50 I cannot complain. It's very sturdy and doesn't easily open if you were to carry it around in your handbag. There is a mirror inside the lid, which is actually fairly huge. The kit also comes with a pair of tweezers, which are useless to be honest. They are so small, it's very difficult to hold them and they are quite blunt. It also includes a double ended angled brush, which I use to apply the product to my brows. Although personally, I want the Real Techniques Brow Brush from the starter set but I'm obsessed with their brushes and I feel it would be easier to apply with a longer handled brush.

The kit comes with four products inside. Two shades to use on your eyebrows, personally I use the lighter one of the two as I am fair. The shades can be used on their own or mixed to create your perfect shade. There is also another powder which MUA suggests using underneath your brows to lift them but this can be used on your eyebrows if you have very blonde brows or mixed with the other shades to make a custom shade. Lastly, there is a gel to finish off your look and set your brows. I use the angled brush to apply the powder in small strokes onto the areas of my eyebrows that need it. Then I use a brow groomer to blend it all together. Using my finger, I apply a small amount of the gel, which is actually more like wax, to hold my eyebrows in place. Finally, I finish with another comb through with my brow groomer to set it all and I'm done.

I am very happy with this brow kit and I don't feel the need to purchase any other and I much prefer using it over a pencil. MUA have done extremely well with this product but I have a feeling it was being developed for a long time. Some people have complained about it not being suitable for them as the shades don't match and I have a feeling MUA will bring out a darker version. If they made a light, medium and dark or even just light and dark lots more people would be as happy as I am. Overall this item is fantastic for £3.50, a complete bargain!

What do you use on your eyebrows? Have you tried the MUA Brow Kit?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

Thursday 13 December 2012

Topshop Lipstick in Rumour Has It - Review







I only have two Topshop lipsticks but I am a huge fan. The first shade I bought is Mink, which is very similar to Rumour Has It but is much darker. Topshop describes Rumour Has It as a 'dusty rose' shade, which as descriptions go, I love! It is a pinky brown nude shade, which is perfect for the day. The shade is buildable meaning you can create a completely different look for the evening. One coat of this is actually very similar to my natural lip colour, it just emphasises my lips. The finish of the lipstick is matte but it applies smoothly onto the lips. I wouldn't say it was a completely matte finish, maybe just semi-matte. It is very moisturising and nourishing on the lips and not at all drying. If you're not a fan of matte lipsticks, you can apply a gloss on top for a high shine look. I really like the vanilla scent of Topshop lipsticks, they remind me of MAC lipsticks. I've said it before but I HATE the usual lipstick smell! The lipstick lasts 2 - 3 hours before it needs reapplying which isn't bad.

Do you have any Topshop lipsticks? Which shade should I get from Topshop next? 

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

Monday 3 December 2012

Instagram #7


Beautiful Cheryl Cole, Reaching 50 followers on my blog (thank you!), Acrylic nail polish stand, Christmas at The Trafford Centre, Magazines magazines magazines, Everyday Make Up post, Avon Moroccan Oil Mask, Midnight Premiere of Breaking Dawn Part 2, Cosy night in our new house, Mini Haul, Countdown to Christmas, Lip products in my handbag, 25 days to go, Advent Calendar, Our first Christmas tree in our first house.

I'm still not ready for blogging frequently. I thought an Instagram post could ease me in gently! I also took part in the #bbloggers chat last night which I have missed for weeks now. I really do miss blogging and I cannot wait until we have everything up and running. We have so much to do and I'm still living out of boxes, it's not fun! Fingers crossed, I may be able to blog more and more. I'm so excited for Christmas. We have our tree up already and it's our first Christmas in our first house and I just wanted a bit of normality!

What have you been up to recently? Have you began preparing for Christmas?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

Saturday 24 November 2012

Missing

I moved into my first house last week and I have been super busy before, during and after. I think it's gonna be a little while longer before I'm blogging again. I am missing blogging so much but I just don't have the time. I'm working and then coming home and working on my house. There are so many jobs that need doing but I cannot wait till it's sorted! Getting my beautiful dressing table tomorrow! Hopefully normality will resume soon!

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

Saturday 10 November 2012

Everyday Make Up #2











Eye Shadow - MUA Undressed Palette (review here)

Lipstick - Topshop Lipstick in Rumour Has It

My last 'Everyday Make Up' post was posted at the end of September and some of the products that I use now have changed quite a bit. I love finding new products, especially when they are better than the ones I am currently using! The products that haven't changed are my bronzer and mascara. You can read what I think in my last post here so I won't go into too much detail. I am still looking for a new bronzer though. Even though this one is light matte, I find it too dark for my skin. Any recommendations?

I don't always use this primer, just on the days when my pores are looking particularly big! There are lots of primers out there these days and I want to try some others. So if you can recommend a good primer, please let me know. I had a Foundation Match Made consultation at the No7 counter in Boots. You can read about my experience here. I have been using this foundation ever since and I love it! I apply it with the Real Techniques Expert Brush and it provides great coverage with a matte finish. I think everyone who writes a beauty blog owns this concealer, but the Lasting Perfection Concealer is amazing! It provides great coverage over blemishes and spots and is so cheap. I find it's too thick to use under my eyes, so instead I have been using the Illuminating Touch Concealer. This is perfect for covering up dark circles and brightening the eye area. I use the Real Techniques Foundation Brush to blend both concealers. Even though I am using the Stay Perfect Foundation, which is matte, I still find I need powder in certain areas. The Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder is perfect as it really is matte and doesn't appear cakey. I have used my Clinique blusher for almost two years now, but I recently decided I wanted a more neutral blush for the winter. I spotted this Rimmel blush in bronze and decided it would be perfect. I also use it for contouring but I am new to the whole contouring technique and I'm still learning! Any tips? I am honestly surprised at how good this eye shadow palette is. I love neutral eye shadows and you can create so many looks from this one palette. I'm also surprised I haven't hit pan with any shades yet as I'm always using it! This is my second Topshop lipstick and I love them both. The formula is so creamy and moisturising. Rumour Has It is a lovely nude shade perfect for the daytime.

Can you recommend a bronzer for my pale skin? Do you have any contouring tips for me?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

Friday 9 November 2012

Liz Earle Skin Repair Light Moisturiser - Review





Liz Earle Skin Repair Light Moisturiser £18.75

This is the final step in the Liz Earle mantra of cleanse, tone and moisturise. I have been using the three-step process for months now and I have repurchased the products over and over again. It's safe to say I am a massive fan of Liz Earle and the skincare products. The first step is to cleanse with the Cleanse & Polish hot cloth cleanser, the second step is to tone with the Instant Boost Skin Tonic and finally moisturise with your choice of moisturiser. I chose the light moisturiser as it's for combination/oily skin and I suffer from mild acne.

I get the 50ml pump, which is £18.75 or included in the Skincare Essentials Regime, which is £41 with a free gift. I always buy the monthly essentials as it's a great offer and I have built up quite a collection of Liz Earle with the monthly freebies! I love the pump system, it's not messy and one pump is just enough for my face. I don't usually moisturise my neck, although I should, but if I do that's just an extra pump. Overall, I like the Liz Earle packaging. I like how all the skincare products have the same packaging, in the same colour and even the packaging makes me think 'clean'.

The moisturiser contains naturally active ingredients such as Wheat germ Oil, Avocado Oil and Vitamin E. The lotion is light and gentle on the skin and it easily absorbs into my skin in just a few minutes. It doesn't leave my skin looking shiny, which is perfect for me, as I prefer the matte look. After just a few minutes I am able to apply my foundation and it provides a nice base. Although some days I use a primer to minimise my pores! I love the smell of all Liz Earle products. This is no exception, it smells smoothing and makes me feel instantly relaxed, as well as my skin!

I have said this before in my previous Liz Earle skincare reviews, but I have noticed a massive improvement in my skin. My skin tone has evened out and I don't get as many blemishes. I do still suffer from spots but I am beginning to think this is down to my lifestyle rather than my skincare. 

Liz Earle do three different moisturisers so you are sure to find one suitable for your skin type. I also say this too, but I 100% recommend Liz Earle products, they are higher end products but I feel they are totally worth it!

Do you use Liz Earle products? Have you tried the Liz Earle moisturisers?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

Thursday 8 November 2012

Bourjois Magic Nail Polish Remover - Review




This is another product that I purchased after reading many positive reviews. Removing nail polish is a chore for me and I had previously never come across a product that worked so well. Most other nail polish removers stink and take ages to remove the polish. Also, I cannot stand the cotton wool breaking up into pieces. I decided enough was enough and purchased this highly raved about product.

Once I got home, I decided to remove my nail polish straight away as it was chipped and had been on almost a week. I was sceptical about just how 'magic' this remover was and really didn't believe it could remove my nail polish in 1 second!

The instructions are 'dip each finger into the sponge, twist and remove.' It really is that easy! Although in my opinion, you need to twist several times to remove all the polish. The remover actually smells pleasant and has a sweet smell. (I do not recommend putting the product really close to your nose and sniffing as it is a bit overpowering!) The scent is red fruit and vanilla. Although the remover contains nourishing sweet almond oil, which I can definitely smell over the red fruit and vanilla. The almond oil really is nourishing and makes your nails feel so healthy. It also doesn't dry your nails out, which is obviously a good thing!

In my opinion a second is a bit generous! I would say it takes a minute or so to remover the polish from one nail completely. Especially if you have a base coat, two coats of polish and a top coat. It just takes a few extra minutes to work through those layers. For me this isn't a problem as it's so easy and convenient. It's just a little misleading to say it only takes a second.

Also, if you remover glitter nail varnish with this it takes a little longer and glitter particles will be left on the sponge. This means that in the future when you use it, you will have glitter on your fingers. I really don't see this as a problem as I wash my hands afterwards meaning I wash away any glitter.

I 100% recommend this product. It's fully removes nail polish in a few minutes (not one second!), it's quick and easy and you can do it on the go. It also means you don't need cotton wool and overall makes less mess!

Have you tried Bourjois Magic Nail Polish Remover? What are you opinions?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

Wednesday 7 November 2012

October Favourites


Real Techniques Expert Face Brush £9.99 - Altogether I own 5 Real Techniques brushes - the Powder Brush, the Foundation Brush, the Blush Brush, the Setting Brush and this one. I love every single one and I completely understand all the hype surrounding them. I bought this brush to use with my liquid foundation, as I wasn't happy with the Foundation Brush. I had read that this brush provides more coverage with liquid foundation, which was exactly what I wanted. I now use the Foundation Brush with my concealer and I love how it blends and reaches in those hard to reach areas.

Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer £4.19 - This concealer is the best drugstore concealer I have ever tried! It is well worth the hype all around the Blogosphere. The price is fantastic and it provides great coverage for quite a few hours. I find it's too heavy for under the eye area. Instead I use Collection Illuminating Touch Brightening Concealer for under the eye area. I 100% recommend this concealer to everyone!

Rimmel Precious Stones Glitter Nail Polish in Diamond Dust £3.99 - I love glitter nail polish, although I hate taking it off! I cannot wait till nearer Christmas when I can get away with pairing it with red. The two negative points are that the polish dries extremely matte but this is nothing that a top coat cannot solve and the fact that it doesn't last very long. Even with a top coat, I got two days wear before it started to chip. But for the price, this is fab and I love the fact that it has different sizes of glitter particles.

Topshop Lipstick in Rumour Has It £8 - This is the second Topshop lipstick that I have purchased. The first was Mink, which I bought about a year and a half ago. I love both of the shades, maybe Rumour Has It a little more as I can wear it more on a daily basis. The texture of the lipstick is creamy and it glides onto the lips smoothly, providing moisture. The lipstick lasts a few hours before it needs reapplying. I definitely want more Topshop lipsticks, which shade do you recommend?

No7 Stay Perfect Foundation £14 - You can read my review here. I have been using this foundation every day since I got it. I love it. The shade is perfect for my skin tone as I had it matched. You can also read my views of the Match Made Service on my review of the foundation. It provides great coverage, which means I only need to dab a teeny tiny bit of concealer on my blemishes. I 100% recommend going to boots and having a foundation consultation. It's free!

Liz Earle Instant Boost Skin Tonic £12.50 -You can read my review here. I love Liz Earle products, I have been using all the products in the Essentials now for several months. They have improved my skin so much. The Skin Tonic works like a toner but it doesn't have any alcohol in it so it won't dry your face out. I use it straight after Cleanse & Polish but before moisturising. I also use it throughout the day, as a spray, if I need refreshing and a quick boost.

Have you tried any of these products? What are you favourite products this month? 
Rachel x
Lost in Lipstick 

Sunday 4 November 2012

Instagram #6


Autumn walks in wellies, Getting ready for Halloween, More magazine freebies, Very similar nail polish, Before and after deep cleaning of make up brushes, Magazine samples of products, Barry M Grey nails, New Rimmel Precious Stones over Barry M Grey, Pixiwoo in Avon catalogue, New leggings from Primark (worn as pyjamas), First Screme Egg, New Clutch bags from Primark, Watching Hocus Pocus on Halloween, Yummy pizza, Fireworks at The Trafford Centre, Nandos.


This is two weeks worth of photos, which I much prefer than two shorter posts. My nephew is still unwell so I have been looking after him a lot, which means not much time for blogging so apologies. I hope you've all had a great week. I've been off work for a week as it's half term but we're back in tomorrow - back to reality! Now Halloween and Bonfire Night are over, the countdown is really on for Christmas! I'll be in my new house in two weeks! So excited - my first house! I feel so grown up!

What have you been up to this week? What did you do for Halloween and Bonfire Night?
Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

Wednesday 31 October 2012

MUA Lipstick in Shade 7 - Review




I have two lipsticks from the MUA collection, Shade 7 and Shade 11 (review here). Just like Shade 11, this lipstick is moisturising, highly pigmented and a fabulous price. It glides on smoothly, offering a rich colour and lasts for several hours. As I mentioned in my previous review of MUA lipstick, Shade 11 is actually my favourite shade of the two. However, Shade 7 is still a lip colour that I use. My personal taste in lipstick means that this is more of an evening shade rather than day-to-day.

I would 100% recommend MUA lipsticks. They are a fantastic price. You could actually buy the whole collection for just £16! That's just a little bit more than the price of one MAC lipstick! It's totally worth a trip to Superdrug or ordering online and purchasing a few shades to find your favourite. I am definitely going to be buying more MUA lipstick in the future. Which shade should I go for next?

Have you tried a MUA lipstick? Which is your favourite shade from the collection?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

Tuesday 30 October 2012

Boots Haul

I did a bit of shopping on Saturday and went slightly crazy in Boots! I took advantage of the 3 for 2 offer and they also had an extra offer on Advantage Card Points. If you spent over £30, you got triple points. I definitely qualified for this offer as I spent a whopping £44. Considering I didn't 'need' anything and they are all 'wants' that is quite a lot. Last time I spent that much I was buying holiday essentials in July!




Real Techniques Blush Brush - I already have the Real Techniques Foundation Brush and the Real Techniques Powder Brush and I was so impressed with the quality of the two brushes that I knew I had to own more! I have read quite a few reviews of the Blush Brush, all positive, and I knew this brush would be perfect for me.

Real Techniques Expert Face Brush - If you have read my review of the Real Techniques Foundation Brush you will know that I am not happy with the application of my liquid foundation with this brush. There is a lot of hype around the Buffing Brush, which is part of the Core Collection, and I was originally going to buy it but I only wanted the one brush so I didn't really want to pay £21.99. I read some more reviews and watched tutorials on the Real Techniques website and I decided that the Expert Face Brush is more suited to my needs. It is for liquid foundation and provides fuller coverage.

Real Techniques Setting Brush - I wanted this brush to apply powder under my eyes to stop my mascara and eye liner from running. It is also used for applying highlighter, which I want to get into the habit of using!


Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder in Transparent - I think I used this a few years ago if it was out then. I don't know why I stopped though. There is quite a bit of hype on this product in the blogosphere and I thought I would give it another try. My current powder was a bit too yellow for my liking!

Rimmel Lasting Finish Soft Colour Blush in Bronze - I'm not sure what it is but suddenly I feel the need to have several blushers! I thought this would be a nice alternative to pink when I wanted more of a subtle blush.

Rimmel Lasting Finish Matte Lipstick by Kate Moss in 101 - I haven't actually tried any of the Kate Moss lipsticks before. I really wanted to but I never found a shade that I thought would suit me. In Boots, I had tried a few different shades on the back of my hand, time and time again, finally I decided on this shade.

Rimmel Precious Stones Glitter Nail Polish in Diamond Dust - I couldn't resist this! I am loving glitter nails at the moment and didn't actually have a silver glitter for some reason. I tested it in the shop on one nail and it dried very fast but extremely matte. Hence why I bought a top coat as well!


Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer in Light 2 - This is actually a repurchase even though I haven't ran out yet. But when I was looking for this shade the first time round, it was really hard to get hold of. I thought I might as well stock up while I can!

Collection Illuminating Touch Brightening Concealer in Natural 2 - See above!



Models Own 3 in 1 Nail Polish - I have actually ran out of my base coat (even though my previous brand wasn't very good!) and I never had a top coat. Naughty me. I just used a clear nail polish but that never did the trick of making my nail polish last longer. When I tried out the Rimmel Precious Stones and saw it dried matte, I knew this was the perfect time to try a new top coat. I thought I would give this a go as 3 in 1 sounded promising.

Sanctuary Spa Body Wash - This is another repurchase. Out of all the body scrubs I have tried, all high street/drug store, this is my favourite. I actually really love the Sanctuary products but I haven't used them for a few months. I love the smell and this isn't too rough while still getting rid of any dead skin.

Simple Kind To Eyes Eye Make-Up Remover - This is actually one thing I needed. A lot of people don't like this but this is one eye make up remover that I have used that doesn't irritate my eyes. My eyes are quite sensitive and this works well at removing my eye make up. I then follow with Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish to remove any final traces and the rest of my make up.

Balmi Raspberry Lip Balm - I have seen a few reviews of this recently and I wanted it for the novelty factor. I went for the raspberry one as I have lots of strawberry lip products. It smells delicious!


I am planning to review all of these items on my blog over the next few weeks. If you would like to see a review of a certain product sooner, let me know and I will try to do that product first.

Have you recently bought any of these products? What should I put in my basket next time I'm in Boots?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick 

Sunday 28 October 2012

MUA Lipstick in Shade 11 - Review




I've had this lipstick a few weeks now and I got it on a mini MUA haul that I ordered online. I have quite a few MUA products now and I am very impressed with the quality, the pigmentation and the price! Who could argue at £1 for a lipstick?! It's worth a try, even if you never wear it again! Out of all the MUA lipsticks, Shade 7 (review coming soon) and Shade 11 were the only shades I honestly thought I would wear. Out of the two shades, Shade 11 is my favourite. It's a deep, dark shade, which in my opinion, is more suitable for evening wear rather than day-to-day wear.

The texture of the lipstick is lovely and creamy, which provides great moisture while you wear the lipstick. It also means that the lipstick glides on your lips smoothly. As I mentioned earlier, all MUA products have fantastic pigments and this is no exception. The colour is buildable, which is fantastic. If you want a deeper, more intense shade, just apply more coats. The lipstick lasts for a few hours, which is fantastic for the price. The lipstick also has a delicious scent, it's a vanilla scent which I personally love as I hate the smell of lipstick usually.

Have you tried a MUA lipstick? Which is your favourite shade from the collection?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

Saturday 27 October 2012

Lust List #3

Lust List #3

1. Jaeger Alicia Embroidered Prom Dress £199

 2. H&M Leather Bag £39.99

3. ASOS Studded Bumbag £28

4. Topshop Lace Back Vest £28

5. Next Formal Buckle Rider Boots £85

6. French Connection Apollo Wool Classic Jacket £120

This dress is beautiful, perfect for Autumn and I think it would look lovely teamed with gold accessories, especially a gold belt. I really want another satchel bag for this year. I had a cream one last year, which I was never without. This one is a bit more interesting as it isn't plain and it's still suitable for every day. Again, perfect colours for Autumn. I nearly screamed when I saw this bum bag! I loved them as a child! This one has been brought up to date with gold studs. Who can say no to that? This vest would be ideal for a pub night. The back is gorgeous and would look fabulous with a pair of skinny jeans, heels and lots of accessories! I really, really, really want a pair of riding boots. I haven't decided whether I want them in black or brown yet. Or maybe I could get the black and brown ones... I think this blazer is a perfect cover up while still being dressy. It's plain black, which is classic and it would look amazing paired with the Topshop vest.

Which items are you lusting after this season? Which item is your favourite from this list?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

Monday 22 October 2012

Real Techniques Foundation Brush - Review


I actually picked this brush up in September, along with the Powder Brush (review here). I absolutely love the Powder Brush. However, I'm not too keen on the Foundation Brush. I think it's good but it could definitely be better. This brush is part of the 'base' collection and I use it to apply liquid foundation and blend concealer. The Real Techniques brushes are created by Samantha Chapman. Her tutorial video for the Foundation Brush can be found here.

The Foundation Brush has an angled cut, which lets you build the coverage you need for an 'airbrushed' look. This is actually great for reaching those hard to reach areas, like around the nose, and it really gets right under the eye, allowing great coverage of bags! The brush has a lightweight, aluminium handle, which makes it super easy to use and hold. The bristles are made from synthetic taklon and are 100% cruelty free. The bristles are super soft and feel so gentle and luxurious on your face. The base of the brush is flat, meaning it can stand up on its own.

I try to deep clean my brushes once a week, but I feel foundation builds up on the brush. I'm pretty sure this shouldn't happen as the bristles are synthetic, but I'm no expert. I think it would benefit from being cleaned twice a week as the build up means the bristles clump together, creating a stripy effect on my face. There is a lot of hype around the Real Techniques Buffing Brush, part of the Core Collection, and I really want to give this a go with my foundation. Maybe I will use that as my foundation brush and keep the actual Foundation Brush as my concealer brush.

Have you tried the Foundation Brush? What are your opinions? Which brush do you use to apply foundation?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

Sunday 21 October 2012

Instagram #5


Watching Dirty Dancing for the first time, Finally bought these two drugstore favourites, New boots for Autumn/Winter, Benefit freebies from InStyle magazine, MUA in A-Z of the Beauty High Street, Review of No7 Foundation Match Made Service and Stay Perfect Foundation (you can read the review here), The beginnings of my MUJI Make Up Storage, Stocking up because it's 3 for 2 in Boots, Light reading.


I hope you've all had a fantastic week. I'm slowly getting back into my blogging routine. My nephew is in hospital and my blog was put on hold, then I had a stomach bug. But everything is looking up now and here I am!

My Instagram post was going to be a weekly feature, but for the time being, I have decided to make it a fortnightly feature. I just don't take enough photos each week. Maybe that's one to consider for a New Years Resolution!

Christmas is slowly approaching. On Friday night I actually listened to a few Christmas songs! Shhhh don't tell anyone. I can't wait for the festivities to begin.

What have you been up to this week? When do you start your Christmas festivities?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

Thursday 18 October 2012

Wish List #3

Wish List #3



Bourjois Volumizer Mascara - I have read fantastic reviews about this online. I desperately want to try it for myself! Is it worth the hype? £10.49

Topshop Nail Polish in Granite - I only have one Topshop Nail Polish at the moment, Pool Party (you can see my review here) but I am impressed with everything about it and this shade looks perfect for Autumn/Winter. £6.50

Real Techniques Core Collection - I mainly want this for the Buffing Brush but the whole collection looks lovely. I am so impressed with Real Techniques brushes. I currently have the Foundation Brush and Powder Brush (you can see my review here). This is a bargain in my opinion as it's only £21.99 and includes 4 full size brushes and a case.

Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer Light - This product is everywhere I look at the moment! I have chosen the light version as I suffer from spots and it's oil free. £25 (but you can buy travel sizes to try).

MUA The Artiste Collection - I am in love with MUA. Every single product that I have tried has impressed me and been of fantastic quality for low prices. How do they do it? This is one of the newer products and just looks beautiful! It's another bargain for £6!

What products are on your wish list? Have you used any of these products? Are they worth buying/the hype?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick


Tuesday 16 October 2012

No7 Foundation Match Made Service and Stay Perfect Foundation in Calico - Review




Foundation Match Made Service


As soon as I heard that No7 was offering a 'Foundation Match Made Service' I knew it was something that I needed to experience. I'll be honest, I Just pick up the foundation shade that I think will suit me and I'm never happy once I get home. I actually popped along to my local Boots one weekend, just after the service had launched, and the No7 counter was so busy with people wanting a consultation. I decided it would be best if I returned one week day evening. I actually returned on a Tuesday evening and Boots was much quieter and an advisor was free to do my consultation.

No7 have spent 3 years analysing and researching different skin tones of over 2000 women and have created 17 shades of foundation in 7 different textures and finishes. It is a UK beauty first and is now available in your local Boots store. Once you have decided to take advantage of the Match Made Service, you will need to go into Boots and ask a No7 advisor for a consultation. A handheld device will be used, it is placed along your jaw line on each side and a photo is taken. Each time it clicks, 27 photos of your skin tone are taken, it will then tell you exactly which shade you are. Once you have your shade, you will have a consultation to find the texture and finish that is right for you. Please be aware that if you have make up on it will need to be removed to get your true shade. Either a patch will be taken off each side or you can choose to have it all taken off.

I was matched to the shade Calico. The No7 advisor then asked what finish I look for in a foundation. My reply was matte with a high coverage as I suffer from spots. After a few moments she returned with a few different foundations in my shade and explained the difference between each one. It was fantastic to finally have foundation advice! The two we narrowed it down to were Beautifully Matte and Stay Perfect Foundation. The consultant applied both foundations to the back of her hand, next to each other so I could see how they applied and the coverage they gave. Once dried, they both gave similar coverage to be honest, but Beautifully Matte was extremely matte. In my opinion, it was almost cakey and it dried very quickly, which doesn't give you much time to blend. Because of this, I chose Stay Perfect.

Stay Perfect Foundation


The consultant applied the foundation to one half of my face and not the other. This way I could see the coverage that the foundation offered alone. I was instantly impressed! She used a foundation brush to apply the foundation but said that you can use your fingers. Personally, I prefer a brush. I just allow the heat from my face to fully blend the foundation before applying any other make up. I have been using this foundation every day for about 3 to 4 weeks now and I am very happy. As I learnt the hard way, please make sure you shake the bottle before using. The packaging actually states this, but I got lazy and forgot a few days. Those days the foundation came out quite watery and didn't give the coverage I expected. However, once I remembered to shake the bottle every day before use, the texture and finish is back to normal, phew!

Stay Perfect Liquid Foundation claims to stay re-touch free for 16 hours. I have to completely agree. I apply my foundation at 6:30am and by 10:30pm my spots are still covered. Granted, my face doesn't look as 'fresh' as when I first apply my make up but I'm happy. If I was going to go out on a night out after wearing make up all day, I would remove it all and reapply or just touch up with concealer and bronzer etc. Another bonus of this foundation is that it offers SPF15, which my old foundation didn't. As I get older, I'm now 25, I am becoming more aware of the damage that the sun can do to your skin and I want to take precautions at an early age. I think this is something everyone should think about. Having SPF in your make up is an easy way to put your mind to rest about wrinkles and sun damage. I would much prefer preventing wrinkles than trying to remove them in later life.

I will definitely be purchasing this foundation again. Personally, I don't think the price is too high. I have been paying over £7 for years for Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse, which isn't my perfect shade, doesn't provide great coverage and doesn't last all day! I actually had one of the infamous No7 vouchers when I bought this, which have recently changed, saving me £3! Therefore, I only paid £11 for the foundation.

Have you tried No7 Foundation Match Made Service? What was your match?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

Thursday 11 October 2012

Mini Haul #2





Topshop Lipstick in Rumour Has It £8

Topshop Nail Polish in Pool Party £5 (review here)

No7 Stay Perfect Foundation in Calico £14

Bourjois Magic Nail Polish Remover £4.99

Monday 8 October 2012

Origins Super Spot Remover - Review


After reading several million(!) reviews online and the fact that there was a massive hype about this product, I decided to purchase it. I actually bought it from the John Lewis counter in the Trafford Centre. On the day, there was 10% off everything. Bonus! I was served by a very helpful, young woman, she asked about my skin and told me about the different products that would be suitable for me. I actually really wanted to buy the Spot Remover Blemish Treatment Pads as well, but I decided to see if the gel worked first.

The directions on the packaging advise applying a thin layer 1 to 3 times daily. The woman that spoke to me at the counter advised me slightly differently. I followed her recommendations rather than the directions on the packaging. She suggested using the product once a day, at night time, after cleansing. This was based on the gel turning white after it had dried. However, since using it for a month I haven't noticed it turning white.

I suffer from mild acne, since using the gel my spots have improved slightly but this may be down to the antibiotics that I am on for them. I haven't noticed a difference in the small spots that I have but when I apply the gel (with a cotton bud) to new, bigger spots I do notice a difference in the size and redness but the spot doesn't disappear completely. Which I found disappointing as the product is called Super Spot Remover!

As I said above, I have been using this product for a month now. I apply it once a day, at night time, after I have used Liz Earle Daily Essentials. Since using Liz Earle skin care products, being on antibiotics and using this gel my skin has improved so much. But my spots haven't vanished completely, which is disappointing. I would have to say that I don't believe the gel is worth the hype or the £13, this is my personal opinion. There are lots of reviews out there and the majority can't praise it enough. But it doesn't do anything for me or my skin and for that reason, I will not repurchase. However, I will continue to use it till it's gone! Maybe, I will try to use it twice a day. I'm just unsure whether it can be applied on top of make up or not. I won't give up just yet!

Have you used Origins Super Spot Remover? Have you tried the Spot Blemish Treatment Pads?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick 

Tuesday 2 October 2012

Lust List #2

Lush List #2

1. Topshop Knitted Stud Shoulder Jumper £42

2. New Look Black Studded Biker Ankle Boots £29.99

3. Matalan Peplum Vest Top £12

4. ASOS ALDO Kozinski Barrel Bag £45

5. River Island Purple Dip Hem Chiffron Dress £35

These are perfect for Autumn. I love the jumper, it's not too bright, and not too dull and will look great teamed with the boots. I definitely need some studded boots in my life! I'm a big fan of peplum tops, and this is an affordable version for only £12. It's just a shame that Matalan don't do my size :( I love the colour of this ALDO bag, all my handbags seem to be the same colour and this will be a nice addition to my collection. When I came across this dress, I noticed a lot of dresses with sequins on. I'll be looking for my Christmas dress soon! If anyone has any suggestions please let me know.

Are you lusting after any of these items? What's on your lust list?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

Monday 1 October 2012

Liz Earle Instant Boost Skin Tonic - Review




Liz Earle Instant Boost Skin Tonic £12.50

I am a Liz Earle enthusiast. I love every single product that I have tried so far and that's a fair few! You can read my review of the Cleanse & Polish here.

The tonic is Liz Earle's version of a toner, but it is alcohol free. Therefore, it is non-drying and gentle on your skin. It has a beautiful floral scent, which is refreshing at anytime of the day, especially in the morning! It really wakes me up. I love the scent, I can smell all the naturally active ingredients, especially aloe vera and chamomile. Other ingredients include calendula, cucumber and vitamin E. These all help to refresh, sooth, brighten and revitalise the skin.

I use this morning and evening, after I have used Cleanse & Polish, and before applying my chosen Liz Earle moisturiser (review coming soon). I pour onto a cotton wool pad and sweep it over my face. In the evening, it removes any last traces of dirt and make up, leaving my skin beautifully clear. 

The tonic comes in a bottle of either 50ml or 200ml (pictured above). Alternatively, you can buy a spritzer, which is perfect to pop into your handbag and spray on your face throughout the day. The spritzer is also perfect on long journeys and in hot weather to cool you down.

I 100% recommend this product. It has improved the condition of my skin so much. I suffer from mild acne and my skin is so clear and my spots have calmed down a lot since using Liz Earle. 

Have you tried Liz Earle Skin Tonic? Do you include a toner in your routine?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick
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