NARS Orgasm Blush - Review

NARS Orgasm Blush £22.50

What they say; "The ultimate authority in blush, NARS offers the industry's most iconic shades for cheeks. Natural, healthy-looking colour that immediately enlivens the complexion. A light application of even the highest-intensity hues delivers a natural-looking flush."

This is actually my first ever NARS purchase and I bought it from Cohorted at a discounted price (I think I got it for about £18). I used the excuse 'I need this for my wedding' to justify buying a blush for almost £20 when I already have a draw full of them! Orgasm is such a highly raved about product in the beauty world with many people claiming it's their holy grail blusher. I just had to see what all the fuss is about!

NARS Orgasm Blush is a peachy-pink blush with a golden shimmer running through it. It apparently suits most skin tones and it definitely suits mine. Orgasm can be worn lightly for a natural blush or it can be built up for a more intense look. As it contains a golden shimmer, it can act as a 2-in-1 product, allowing you to save time in the morning and skip the highlight. At first, I wasn't sure about the shimmer for everyday but once it's blended, it's very subtle and looks beautiful. I imagine it looks stunning glistening in the low Autumn sunlight.

Is Orgasm a holy grail product for you? Which NARS products do you own?

Rachel x

My Wedding Make Up

Our wedding day seems like a lifetime ago now. It was actually only two months ago and I know everyone seems to say this but it really was the greatest day of my life. I wish I could relive it all over again.

I decided early on in the planning process that I was going to do my own make up. My plan was to visit several different make up counters to pick up tips and tricks and buy new products. I only ever ended up visiting the YSL counter when I purchased the lipstick and had a mini make over there.

I was so busy with work and planning the wedding that I didn't even do a trial on myself until two days before! I actually did my make up slightly different than how I wear it day to day, which I'll explain in more detail below, but I was so happy with it on the day and it lasted all night.

A common theme in the name of products is long lasting and the products definitely lived up to their name. I actually finished my make up around 12pm on the day and the evening reception lasted until 1am. The only thing I needed to reapply was my lipstick.

Below I will go into more detail on each product used as well as why I chose that particular product. Some products are items I've used and loved for a while where as other items were brand new for the wedding. Anyone that went shopping with me in the run up to the wedding will know that I used the wedding excuse a lot! I need a new wedding lipstick, I need a new wedding perfume, were common things said!

Benefit The POREfessional* - Obviously, I needed to use a primer as I needed my make up to last and still look good 12 hours later. I have used this primer for a while now and although I love my Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch, I decided to go with POREfessional as it was just more convenient to use as it was in a tube rather than a pot. Plus I read Fleur de Force's Get Ready With Me Wedding Day blog post beforehand and she used it. If it's good enough for Fleur, it's good enough for me!

Estee Lauder Double Wear Foundation - This is a new product for me. My gran actually gave me this and there is still half left. Result! Obviously, I tried it before the wedding to check the shade and coverage etc but it's the perfect shade for me. It just seems to melt into my skin leaving flawless looking skin behind. This is double the price of the foundation I use on a day to day basis so I save it for special occasions when I really need flawless looking skin. I adore this foundation and it's definitely the best foundation I've ever used. When it has ran out, I will definitely be repurchasing!

Collection Illuminating Touch Brightening Concealer - I've been using this for a while now and I'm happy with it. I didn't really have time to search for a new one and test it out so I stuck with an old favourite. I use this concealer under my eyes and on the top of my cheek bone as it also acts as a highlighter. I managed to sleep the night before as I was relatively calm so a heavy duty concealer wasn't necessary! 

Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer - Again, this is an old favourite. Lots of people love this concealer and you'll know from my empties blog posts, I've repurchased lots of times! The coverage is medium but teamed with the foundation all my imperfections were gone! I actually went to the doctors about a month before my wedding as I wasn't happy with my spots. He prescribed me some cream to a apply in the evening and it did an excellent job. On the day, I was only covering up scars and uneven skin tone. 

Bourjois Cream Blush in 03 Rose Tender - I purchased this when they first came out and I actually have a few cream blushers but I hardly ever wear them. I'm not sure why as they're really easy to apply. I think I just prefer a powder blush. I wore it on my wedding day under a powder blush so it stayed put for longer and I was really happy with the result. 

Nars Blusher in Orgasm - This is another purchase which was justified by the wedding. 'I need a new blusher for my wedding!' Really it was just an excuse to purchase Orgasm. It's raved about so much so when I saw it on Cohorted, I couldn't resist. I can't remember how much I got it for but I saved a little on the RRP which is always good! 

The Body Shop Honey Bronzing Powder - It's thanks to Estée that I now love this bronzer. She's an 'English Rose' like me and she said it's perfect for pale skin so I decided to buy it and give it a try. I'm now on my second compact and I couldn't be without it. I wasn't actually going to wear bronzer on my wedding day as I applied Clarins Liquid Bronze Self Tanner the night before. However, as my foundation contains SPF10, I needed to use bronzer so I didn't look completely washed out on photos. 

HD Brows Eyebrow Palette in Foxy - I usually get HD Brows done at the salon and that includes having them tinted. When I first started having it done, I needed to still fill in bits until the shape was how we wanted it to be. Now I don't need to do that but as I didn't have my eyebrows tinted just before the wedding (I wanted it to be more natural), I just used the lightest shade in the palette to make them stand out a little bit as the ends in particular can be very blonde. 

Maybelline Colour Tattoo in Pink Gold - I used this as a base eyeshadow to help my eyeshadow be more vibrant and last longer - kind of like a primer. I used this rather than a primer as the pink shimmer showed through the eyeshadow that I used on top to create a beautiful effect. My eyeshadow lasted all day and night without creasing. I'm not sure if that's down to this product, the Bare Minerals Eyeshadow or a mixture of the two but they definitely make a great duo. 

Bare Minerals Ready Eyeshadows 4.0 Palette* - I received this palette in a goodie bag and I'm extremely grateful as it's so beautiful and one of the nicest palettes I have ever used. The shadows work together so well and are such a lovely texture. The shimmery shades don't produce fall out and are just as easy to apply as the matte shades. Bare Minerals have a variety of palettes with different collections of colours but as I'm a neutral girl, I definitely would have chosen this one myself. 

Eyelash Curlers - I'm sorry that there is no link for these curlers but I cannot remember when I got them from. I don't think they were very expensive but they do a fabulous job at curling my lashes and my lashes hold the curl all day long. I'm not sure if that's down to my lashes or the curlers though. The lashes on my right eye are perfect and even without curling, mascara can make them look long, curled and thick. My left eye however, just does whatever it pleases. Without curling previously, my left eyelashes just have a mind of their own and when I apply mascara they are sticking all over the place. Using these curlers, help to match my left eye and right eye. 

Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Eyeliner in Nude - Although I managed to sleep the night before, I still wanted to look bright eyed and bushy tailed on the day of my wedding. I love this nude eyeliner from Rimmel as it's creamy and so easy to apply on the waterline. My waterline is often really red and when it is, I use this to brighten my eyes and make me look more awake. 

Daniel Sandler Long Lasting Waterproof Eyeliner in Grey Velvet* - There are those words again - long lasting! I'm rubbish at applying eyeliner so I just apply this to the lash line. I think I just applied it to my lower lash line on the day but it depends on my mood. I've tried winged eyeliner several times and I just cannot master it! 

No7 Stay Perfect Long Lasting Volume Mascara in Black - I actually purchased this in the week running up to the wedding. I knew I wanted a waterproof mascara - just in case! Ideally, I would have tried a few waterproof mascaras and chosen my favourite but I just ran out of time. In the end I went to the No7 counter in  Boots. I picked up two or three different ones and asked for advice on which one I'd prefer for length and volume. That's when she recommended Stay Perfect long Lasting Volume Mascara which I actually really loved and I'm so glad I purchased it. I just haven't got anything to remove it effectively. So if you know of something, please let me know! 

YSL Rouge Volupte Shine Lipstick in 8 - This was an essential wedding purchase! I have wanted a YSL lipstick for so long and I have to admit this is me being a total magpie! I purely wanted one because of the beautiful, luxurious packaging. I picked this up on the same day that I had the make over at the YSL counter. I actually had enough Boots points to cover it so this little beauty was completely free! I usually save up my points for a perfume but I spend them on YSL lipsticks instead! 

Rimmel Stay Matte Powder - I've used this powder for so long now and I usually use it after my foundation and concealer. However, for my wedding day, I applied it after everything else just to make sure that it all stayed in place for as long as I needed. I only applied a thin coat as I still wanted to look 'fresh' and I was really happy with the results. 

The Body Shop Vitamin E Face Mist - I used this purely as an additional security blanket as it can also help to set make up. I popped this in a bag which I would be able to access easily in my hotel room in case I needed to freshen up but I was good to go all night! 

Rachel x

Everyday Make Up #4

Primer - Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch

Foundation - Lush Light Yellow Colour Supplement*

Concealer - Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer in Light (review here)

Under Eye Concealer - Collection Illuminating Touch Brightening Concealer in Natural 

Powder - Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder in Transparent (review here)

Bronzer - Rimmel Sunshimmer Bronzing Compact Powder in Light Matte

Highlighter - Sleek Face Form Contour Kit in Light

Blusher - Natural Collection Blush in Peach Melba (review here)

Eyeliner - Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Eyeliner in Black

Mascara - Seventeen Doll'd Up Mascara

Eyeshadow - MUA Undress Me Too Palette (review here)

Lipstick - Topshop Lipstick in Innocent

My last Everyday Make Up post was written back in March. A few products have changed since then so I thought I would update you with the products I'm currently reaching for everyday. 

I have been using the Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch Primer most days since I bought it and I love it! However, some days when my pores resemble mini craters, I reach for Benefit's Porefessional. Silicone based primers are definitely my favourite as they even and smooth out my skin making it ready for make up. 

Lush Light Yellow Colour Supplement* - I received this in a Lush goodie bag when I attended the Sheffield Meet Up. I absolutely love it. It evens my skin tone and helps to conceal imperfections. I also find that it doesn't oxidise and it blends beautifully on my skin.  I do think the price is a bit steep but I will probably repurchase when I run out as it matches my skin tone so well. 

Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer in Light  - This probably doesn't come as a surprise. You would probably find this concealer in every beauty blogger's make up bag. I have repurchased it over and over again and I will continue to for a long time to come. I have wrote a full review on my blog, which you can read here. 

Collection Illuminating Touch Brightening Concealer in Natural - I have been using this concealer for a while too. I use it to conceal my under eye area as I feel the Lasting Perfection Concealer is too thick for this area. It does a great job at concealer any dark circles while helping to highlight my eyes at the same time. 

Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder in Transparent  - Another firm favourite with beauty bloggers. I have wrote a full review here so you can read in more detail what I think. A perfect example of a great drugstore bargain! It helps to set my make up and make it last longer without looking cakey. 

Rimmel Sunshimmer Bronzing Compact Powder in Light Matte - I have been using this bronzer for about three years now and I have been saying I want a new bronzer for quite a few months. To be honest, I don't know why. Why fix something if it isn't broken? It does a great job of adding a bronzed glow to my face and it's actually great to contour with as it doesn't contain glitter. 

Sleek Face Form Contour Kit in Light - I actually picked this up as a mistake as I was after the Face Contour Kit but I'm glad as I love Face Form. It includes a contouring powder, a highlighting powder and Rose Gold blush, which is beautiful. The palette is the perfect size for travelling and fits in any make up bag.  

Natural Collection Blush in Peach Melba  - I recently reviewed this blush on my blog and you can read it here. It's a great everyday blush as it leaves a natural flush of colour on the cheeks which is buildable if you fancy wearing the shade in the evening. 

Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Eyeliner in Black - I bought this shortly after it's release and I have been using it almost everyday since. It's a lovely soft eyeliner which glides on smoothly and and evenly. Perfect for beginners. 

Seventeen Doll'd Up Mascara - I cannot believe I picked this up for £2! It's an amazing mascara which creates curls, separates my lashes and gives great length and volume. I cannot sing it's praises enough. I have to make sure my lashes are dry before blinking, but it doesn't take too long. 

MUA Undress Me Too Palette  - I love MUA eyeshadow palettes, they're super cheap and high quality. I have reviewed this palette here in more detail. I love to mix and match from my palettes so each day I have a slightly different look. 

Topshop Lipstick in Innocent - Altogether, I have three Topshop lipsticks. This is a perfect daytime shade and it's so easy to wear and apply on the lips. I love the formula and the finish of all Topshop lipsticks and if you haven't tried them, what are you waiting for?

Which products are you loving this month? Do you have any recommendations for me?

Rachel x

Lost In Lipstick

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Natural Collection Blusher in Peach Melba - Review

Natural Collection Blusher in Peach Melba

Natural Collection was a brand I used as a teenager before I had a part time job and to be honest I had stopped using it once I had more money to spend on make up. That was until I started reading beauty blogs about two years ago. Since then, I have been introduced to the Lip Creams and this beautiful blush. For an absolutely bargain price of £1.99 (or 3 for £5), I cannot complain. Yes the packaging could be better but then it wouldn't cost less than £2. Although, the screw lid makes it secure and perfect for travel. Just throw it in your handbag and you're ready to go. 

The blush is a lovely natural shade and really compliments my fair skin tone. I'm not sure if it would show up on darker skin tones but there are four shades altogether in the collection so you would probably find a shade to suit you. The texture is quite powdery and has a powdery scent. Personally, this is something I can put up with as the shade is so pretty and the price is so amazing. The pigmentation is fairly good. Obviously not as good as high end blushers but great for £1.99. The blush is completely matte with no shimmer which makes it perfect for a subtle, daytime blush. 

Have you used any Natural Collection products? Are there any products you recommend for me? 

Rachel x

Lost In Lipstick

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June 2013 Favourites

Liz Earle Eye Bright Soothing Eye Lotion - I got this in Autumn and I am still on the same bottle, although it has almost finished. It's not a product I use everyday though. In winter, I hardly ever used it, only if my eyes are tired and puffy. However with the arrival of Summer, we also say hello to hayfever. One of my symptoms is itchy eyes and when I wake up in the morning, my eyes are so puffy. I apply Eye Bright to two cotton wool pads and hold on my eyes for 5 minutes or so. The difference is amazing. I have already repurchased! 

Anti-Blemish Skinetica and La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo - I have been using these together as new additions to my skincare. I am 25 and I still get spots but I'm pretty sure that it's hormonal acne. I have tried a lot of lotions and potions in my life but I've had no luck. However, about a week after using both of these products together my skin looked so much better and I only had a few small spots instead of the large red spots filled with pus that I'm used to! (Sorry for that image!) I'm not sure if it's a combination of both products or one in particular. All I do know is that I am going to continue to use both products as I love my clearer skin. I am thinking of doing a blog post about my spots and all the different things I've tried, would you like to see that? 

Lush Light Yellow Supplement - I have been using this for a couple of months now. I received it in a goodie bag from the Lush workshop I attended at the Sheffield Meet Up. I have been absolutely loving it as a foundation. We were told, if we wanted, we could mix it with our moisturiser and use it as a tinted moisturiser but I like a heavier coverage (due to my spots). There are several shades but I was matched to light yellow. It's a perfect match. When I apply it, it appears to disappear but my skin looks a lot even and some of my spots are hidden. I have one negative. Because of the size and shape of the pot, I am really struggling to get the product out now it is half empty. Has anyone got an tips for me?

Lush Emotional Brilliance Translucent Face Powder - This is another product that I received in my goodie bag. It is to be used with the colour supplements, once they are dry on your face. As with any powder, is it to set your make up and to prevent shine. In the pot it looks very pink and to be honest I was a little scared of using it at first. But I can confirm it is definitely translucent once applied to your face. It does a fantastic job of mattifying your face and setting your make up. Again, my one negative is getting the product out. I use my Real Techniqes Powder Brush to apply powder but I can't fit it in anymore now I've used half. Help please?!

Barry M Gelly Hi-Shine Nail Paint in Blueberry - There has been a massive hype surrounding these nail polishes and I completely understand why. This is the second one I have tried and it is definitely my favourite nail polish shade at the moment. For the first time in a long time, I removed the chipped remains and painted my nails in the same colour. I think it looks really nice with my skin tone and it's a uncommon colour so I get lots of compliments on it. Without a top coat, it only lasts a day or so longer than a regular nail polish on my nails but I work in a school and I use my hands a lot! You don't need a top coat really because the polish is called hi-shine after all but if you wanted to prolong the wear time, I would recommend a top coat too. 

Dainty Doll Powder Blusher in My Girl - I'm not sure what's happening with Dainty Doll as I got mine from Fragrance Direct for only £1.99 instead of £13.50! I had never tried the brand before so when I heard about the massive saving, I knew I had to snap one up. I actually got two shades (You Are My Sunshine as well) but I definitely prefer My Girl. It is extremely pigmented. I only need a small amount of colour to create a pop of colour on my cheeks. If I only want a subtle hint of colour, I tap off any excess before applying. This leaves me with a more natural flush of colour. If Dainty Doll has been discontinued, it is a shame as the powder blushes are fantastic quality, especially for £1.99!!

What have been your favourite products this month? Have any of my favourites made your list?

Rachel x

Lost In Lipstick

Bourjois Cream Blush in 03 Rose Tender - Review

Bourjois Cream Blush in 03 Rose Tender £6.99

Bourjois are well known for their little round pots of powdered blush. 2013 so far, has been all about the cream blush in preparation from Summer. Say hello to Bourjois' new addition - cream blush in a little round pot! It's the first time in 150 years that Bourjois have reinvented their little round pots. I love that each pot contains a mirror, this makes it the perfect blush to travel with. Altogether there are four shades; 01 Nude Velvet, 02 Healthy Glow, 03 Rose Tender and 04 Sweet Cherry. As you can see from above, I picked up 03 Rose Tender, which is a lovely rosy, pink shade. All four shades have a cream to powder texture, which makes them feel velvety allowing for smooth application. The blush can be applied and blended with your fingers or a brush. I like to use my Real Techniques Blush Brush, although I do think a brush with flat bristles would be better at applying the colour. In my opinion, 03 is better suited to my skin tone, but I am tempted to purchase at least one more shade!

Have you purchased Bourjois' Cream Blushers yet? Do you prefer cream blush or powdered blush?

Rachel x

Lost In Lipstick

MUA Shimmer Kisses Bronzer - Review

MUA Shimmer Kisses Bronzer £3

I love MUA products, that's no secret. I actually really like this palette but for some unknown reason, I very rarely reach for it. I'm not a massive fan of shimmery products and dewy skin but I still bought this. After all, I am getting better with eyeshadow! Although come summer, I think I'll reach for this more and more.

I love the four shades that come with this palette. All four can be swirled together for an all over bronzed, shimmery look or you can use the four shades individually to blush and highlight, which is what I do. The top left and bottom right shade I use to highlight. The top left is beautiful in the inner corner of my eye. The top right shade is a lovely peach colour, perfect for a blush. Finally, the bottom left shade is dusty rose colour and is a lovely blush shade.

Overall, I would have to say this makes a lovely blush and highlight product. The name can be a little misleading as it is far from a bronzer. MUA advertise the product perfectly on the back stating there are 'four shimmering tones for highlighting your complexion'. I recommend this product if you are looking for a really affordable blush and highlight palette. It's priced at the bargain price of £3 and MUA sometimes hold offers, making it even cheaper! The quality of the palette is lovely, as usual for MUA, but the pigmentation isn't great however, they are buildable if you're looking for a more intense look.

Have you tried the MUA Shimmer Kisses Bronzer? What do you use it for?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

Everyday Make Up #3

Primer - Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch

Foundation -  No7 Stay Perfect Foundation in Calico (review here)

Concealer - Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer in Light (review here)

Powder - Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder in Transparent (review here)

Bronzer - Rimmel Sunshimmer Bronzing Compact Powder in Light Matte

Blusher - Benefit Dandelion

Highlighter - MUA Shimmer Kisses Bronzer

Eyeliner - Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Eyeliner in Black

Mascara - Liz Earle Lash Definition Smudgeproof Mascara in Black

Eye Shadow - MUA Heaven & Earth Eye Shadow Palette

Lipstick - AVON Ultra Colour Rich Lipstick in Pout

My last Everyday Make Up post was way back in November before I moved house! I think since the move I forgot about these posts until I saw them in my blogging notebook. A few items have changed since but some have stayed the same since November. My foundation, concealer, powder and bronzer are all the same and I have been using these products for quite a few months now.

I'm almost out of foundation and I think I want to try something different next. I was thinking about the Rimmel Wake Me Up Foundation as so many bloggers say it's a great drugstore foundation but the fact that I would have to select the shade myself scares me. I'll get home and it will totally be the wrong shade! Probably like I've been tango'd! So does anyone know if Rimmel have a similar shade to No7 Calico? That would be a massive help! Or I was thinking I would stick with No7 but get another foundation match done in early summer as my skin tone may have changed since I last had it done! Aahhh decisions, decisions! I have wrote a review of the No7 Stay Perfect Foundation, which you can read here.

Obviously, I am still using Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer as it's amazing. However, I have been using light for so long but I much prefer natural. It suits my skin tone much better. You can read what I think in more detail here.

My powder choice is still Rimmel Stay Matte as it's perfect and doesn't cake. I'm not going to change something that isn't broken! You can read what I think in depth here.

As you can see, I'm still using the same bronzer as I was back in November (and September)! I just cannot find one that I like more. I almost fell for NARS Laguna because of all the hype surrounding it. I even went to Selfridges to purchase it but I just decided it wasn't for me. When I lightly swatched it on my hand, I could see glitter/shimmer. Even though many people said you couldn't see it when it was on your face, I didn't want to take the chance. So I'm still using the same bronzer, that I have been wearing for about three years! 

A new addition into my make up routine is the Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch Primer. It has a steep price tag but I think it's worth every penny. It also helps that I got it for £17.50 as it was in a set on sale on the Clarins website after Christmas. Bonus! I don't technically wear this everyday as I don't wear it for work but I do wear it for all other occasions. It feels so velvety and smooth as I apply it and it leaves my face feeling and looking flawless. It provides the perfect base for my foundation and since using it I have noticed how much better my foundation looks. The only negative I have is that some days it doesn't cover all my pores but I do have relatively large pores! 

A blusher I'm reaching for more and more is Benefit Dandelion. As spring is fast approaching, I think it's the perfect shade on my skin tone to give me a healthy, spring time glow. I pair this with MUA Shimmer Kisses Bronzer, which I actually use as a highlighter. I use my Real Techniques Setting brush to apply it to the top of my cheekbones and my brow bone. If I want extra highlight to add more definition to my face, then I also apply it to the middle of my nose, my cupid's bow and my forehead.

In December, I received the Liz Earle Lash Definition Smudgeproof Mascara as a freebie in the monthly essentials. I have been using it ever since and I absolutely love it. No matter how much I apply it doesn't clump my lashes and it adds length and volume. Previously, I was using the Rimmel Extra Super Lash Mascara, which I love as well, but I find I find it can clump, especially in the evening when I apply more for greater volume and length.

My eyeliner of choice has been the Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Eyeliner. I bought this shortly after it was released and I have been using it ever since. I only apply eyeliner to my waterline as I don't have a steady hand to apply eyeliner above my upper lash line. I wish I could! As I apply it to my waterline, most eyeliners have a tendency to wear off quickly. I find Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Eyeliner lasts a lot longer and best of all it doesn't run!

Last month, I purchased the popular MUA Heaven & Earth Palette. I absolutely love my Undressed palette and I have hit pan on a few shades but I also wanted to give Heaven & Earth a try. At the moment in time, I couldn't choose a favourite but I am loving using both of them. They both have shimmer and matte shades and include shades suitable for day and evening wear.

Another product I purchased last month was AVON Ultra Colour Rich Lipstick in Pout. I bought it because it was half price in the AVON catalogue and I thought the shade looked perfect. I haven't tried an AVON lipstick before and I didn't have chance to swatch it so I took a chance. I was so lucky as I absolutely love the shade. It's my lips but better and is my 'go to' lipstick for daytime. It has definitely made me want to try more AVON lipsticks. The formula is so moisturising and it's just perfect!

Which products are you loving this month? Do you have any recommendations for me?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

My 12 Favourite Products of 2012

Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser

I began my Liz Earle journey a year ago now, when my mum got me the starter kit for Christmas 2011, and I have been using it ever since. I won't go into too much detail as you can read what I think in my review here. I love love love Cleanse & Polish and I use it morning and night without fail. It has improved the condition of my skin so much over the past year. I used to suffer from the occasional dry patch and quite bad acne. My dry skin has cleared up and although I still have a few spots, they are under control with the help of Liz Earle.

Liz Earle Skin Repair Light Moisturiser

Every single step of my skin care routine is Liz Earle. Even though it's all my favourite and I couldn't live without any of it, I didn't want to choose it all in this post as it wouldn't leave much room for anything else. I settled for Cleanse & Polish as I think it is the greatest cleanser ever made, I think it truly deserves all the awards it gets, and the Skin Repair Light Moisturiser. You can read what I think about the moisturiser in more detail here but I feel it deserves more recognition than it gets. My skin is oily/combination as I said I suffer from spots and dry skin. Many people think you need to skip moisturiser if you have oily skin but that couldn't be further from the truth. You need to feed the spots and this light moisturiser is perfect. It sinks into your skin leaving a smooth, supple and moisturised surface for your make up. 

No7 Stay Perfect Foundation in Calico

Before I purchased this foundation, I used Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse and when I ran out I couldn't remember what shade I had previously so I just picked up any! I actually did that for quite a few years and I have no idea why. It wasn't amazing but it did the job. I went along to Boots for the No7 Foundation Made Service. You can read what I thought of the matching service and what I think of the foundation here. I'm so glad I went. I'm currently on my second bottle since August/September but I use it every single day. When I apply the foundation, it's like applying a second flawless skin rather than applying thick foundation. That sounds cheesy but it's true. It gives me the coverage I need without making me look like I've applied my make up with a trowel! 

Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer

I'm so glad I jumped on this bandwagon! Everyone has this concealer and for £4-£5 I don't blame them. It provides good coverage and lasts a fair few hours. When I nip into Boots or Superdrug, it's always a mission to find one unused, especially shade 2 which is the shade I use. When I do see my shade, I always pick up at least two to stock up. I only use this concealer on my spots and blemishes as I find it a bit too thick to use under my eyes. Instead, I use the Collection Illuminating Touch Concealer, which is a great highlighter as well. 

Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder in Transparent

I'm not sure when this product first launched but I'm pretty sure I used it years ago when it was in different packaging. For the past few years, I removed powder from my make up routine as I just didn't need it. However, since I am getting older and my spots are persistent in staying I feel I just need a light dusting of powder to take the shine away. The shine stays away for a few hours before I need a touch up, which for a drug store brand is pretty good going.

Clinique Blushing Blush Powder Blush in Precious Posy

I got this blusher two years ago. I have used it almost everyday since and it's still going strong. It's gone up in price to £21 since I got it for £14 two years ago. I'm not sure my wage has increased by a third! Anyway... The colour is buildable depending on how intense of a colour you like. During the day, I apply one or two brush strokes on each cheek where as in the evening, I build up the colour for a slightly more dramatic look. It lasts several hours even without a primer but for a higher end product that is expected.

Revlon ColorBurst Lip Butter in Peach Parfait

I have to admit that I only bought this product because of all the hype. I jumped on the Revlon Lip Butter bandwagon and boy am I glad I did! As you can see it made my 12 favourite products of the year. I love the moisturising formulation and the fact it looks and feels like a lipstick. I often find myself reaching for this over a boring lip balm. I would definitely repurchase this, maybe in a few other shades. 

Topshop Lipstick in Rumour Has It

I am a big fan of Topshop lipsticks. I have two shades and I have my eyes on a few others. You can read what I think in depth here so I won't go into too much detail. I have a few lipsticks that I turn to for day to day but when narrowing it down for this post, the formula of this lipstick won hands down. I just love how moisturising and easy to apply it is even though it's a matte lipstick. It is far from drying and the colour lasts a few hours before it needs a touch up.

Rimmel Scandal Eyes Waterproof Kohl Eye Liner in Black

I always wear eye liner, usually on my upper and lower water line, but it isn't a product which excites me. I usually just grab the first eye liner in my reach but I have been choosing this one over any others lately. With it being waterproof, it lasts so much longer and I find it doesn't run as much as my other eye liners. Although I have been using a setting brush to apply powder under my eyes. The formula allows it to glide on smoothly without creating drag, which is definitely a good thing when your eyes are concerned. 

 MUA Undressed Palette

MUA have announced that this is their best selling product of 2012 and I am not surprised. Since I have started wearing eye shadow more often, I wear shades from this palette on a daily basis. I have actually started to see pan on two shades! I reviewed this palette in more detail and you can read it here. I love a neutral eye, hence why this has made my favourites list. The palette is so versatile, ranging from light to dark neutral shades with a mixture of matte and shimmer shadows. I choose lighter matte nudes for the day, adding darker shimmer shades for the evening. A perfect palette.

Real Techniques Expert Face Brush

I have five Real Techniques brushes and to be honest I could have chosen all of them to feature in this post. I chose the Expert Face Brush as it really has changed the way I apply my foundation and my skin looks flawless when I have used it. I have the foundation brush but I now use that to blend my concealer. When I used the foundation brush to apply my foundation, I found that it left streaks on my face. I also have the powder brush, blush brush and setting brush with many others on my wish list.

Bourjois Magic Nail Polish Remover

I can't believe I put up with 'regular' nail polish remover and cotton wool pads for so long! This is a god send. It removes nail polish so quick and easy and there is no mess. (Glitter nail polish is another story!) You can read what I thought by reading my review here.

What are your favourite products of 2012? Have any of my favourites made your list?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick

Everyday Make Up #2

Primer - Benefit the POREfessional

Foundation - No7 Stay Perfect Foundation in Calico (review here)

Concealer - Collection Lasting Perfection Concealer in Light

Concealer - Collection Illuminating Touch Brightening Concealer in Natural 

Powder - Rimmel Stay Matte Pressed Powder in Transparent

Bronzer - Rimmel Sunshimmer Bronzing Compact Powder in Light Matte

Blusher - Rimmel Lasting Finish Soft Colour Blush in Bronze

Eyeliner - No7 Amazing Eyes Pencil in Black

Mascara - Rimmel Extra Super Lash Mascara in Black

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

Everyday Make Up #1

Foundation - Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse in 021 Nude

Concealer - Clinique All About Eyes Concealer in 01 Light Neutral

Bronzer - Rimmel Sunshimmer Bronzing Compact Powder in Light Matte

Blusher - Clinique Blushing Blush Powder Blush in Precious Posy

Eyeliner - Benefit BADgal Liner in Black

Mascara - Rimmel Extra Super Lash Mascara in 101 Black

Lipstick - MAC Cremesheen Lipstick in Creme Cup (review here)

Brush - Real Techniques Powder Brush (review here)

This is just make up that I use everyday for work. At the weekends and if I go anywhere in the evenings, I wear slightly different products and a few more products! I have been using Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse for quite a few years now and I actually went along to Boots and had a foundation consultation at the No7 counter with the new Match Made Service. I am currently trying out the foundation and loving it, I will post a review soon about it and the service I received. I don't actually like this concealer, I find it very thick and difficult to blend under my eyes as my skin is so delicate. But it is a good cover up for blemishes. Again, I have been using this bronzer for years. I like that it is matte and doesn't contain any glitter. If you can recommend a good bronzer that doesn't have glitter in please do! I love this blusher, it's easy to apply, a lovely shade and comes with a fantastic angled brush. It also lasts a long time as it's hard wearing. I think I got this eyeliner free from a Glamour Magazine giveaway several years ago! I'm sure I should through it away now! Does anyone know how long ago the giveaway was? They don't even have it on the website any more! Another favourite product of mine is the Rimmel mascara, I always get compliments about my lashes when I'm wearing it (I am lucky though, my eye lashes are naturally long). I have been using it for years and I will continue to repurchase it. This is my first ever MAC purchase and you can read what I think here. This is another new product and you can read what I think here.

What products do you use everyday? What bronzer do you use?

Rachel x
Lost In Lipstick