The Student's Guide To Nail Polish

M to the Barry and other Excursions to the land of the Superdrug

2012-02-25T18:06:00.000Z

Barry M Nail Effects. You've all seen them, all heard about them, well I bought three of them.

Primarily for stamping purposes, as they're not the most chip resistant polishes I've ever worn and application is weak. Every brushstroke and minor dent is painfully obvious with this formula. Not for the cackhanded.

A cheeky 2True apperance. These are very good, these.

While they were limited edition some stores do still have them around so it's worth looking if you're interested.

These Nails Inc polishes were a free gift at Boots - how cute are these bottles!

A vain attempt to class up my skin regime, seeing as I have all these dark marks that won't go away (no, BioOil won't work, lol) resulted in a purchase of cleanser and toner from Superdrug. I do quite like the cleanser so far, and the toner doesn't sting which is always nice.

It looks like I spend a lot there (which is true) but these were mostly spread out over four or five trips so it just all added up, I guess. Finances do need to be sorted out though :/ I must save for Uni!

The Cosmetic Table of the Elements.

2012-02-23T17:27:00.003Z

This is me floating a new idea for the blog; Ever since I experienced the joys of a Saturday job (and consequently, disposable income for what feels like the first time in my life) many of the posts on here have been leaning towards hauls rather than the (questionable) nail art and looks this blog used to feature more heavily. The long and short of it is that I feel I should give products that I currently own some more love, as well as rushing to invest in the latest and greatest.

Combining this love (beauty/cosmetic blogging) with just one of my other great loves (science) led me to this, The Cosmetic Table of the Elements. At least wait for me to explain before you click that big red X button!
'Elements' refers to the individual items of makeup that I would wear to give a certain 'look', and the whole name is a play on the Periodic Table, obviously. Call it a Lenten challenge, but if it takes off and I collect enough of these 'sets' I would organise them into some sort of table so that if I were ever stuck for inspiration, I could go and have a look.

It'd run like so: I'd pick a theme, say, 'peachy keen sixth former', and come up with this:

This would include a short description of how they were applied, what inspired me to group that particular collection of products together etc.

At the end of the day, if I wanted a blog with no readers I'd be keeping a diary, which is why I'm asking you guys what you think? Good idea? Leave it? If you would prefer to comment anonymously, feel free! As ever, I don't mind :)

January Empties. Late.

2012-02-21T08:45:00.000Z

I'm well aware we're nearly finishing February :(

Johnson's Face Cream - already repurchased because it's classy and has SPF in it and it's also very cheap and I like all of those things.

Barry M Base Coat - may repurchased, may not, I liked the fact that I could use it right down to the very last drop and it didn't thicken or anything, but it wasn't great at stopping chips. I'll shop around, see if there is anything better at a similar price point because again, this is very cheap.

MUA Pro 3 in 1 Eye Liner - I used this as a quick and easy eyebrow fill, but don't really like it as an eyeliner - far too soft, and not black enough. Wouldn't spend money on it.

Mirror SHINee

2012-02-20T22:46:00.000Z

If you were curious, yes the title is a reference to both the sheer lipsticks produced by 17 Cosmetics and also the cute as cute can be Korean five member boyband. Don't judge, non-Kpop lovers. Don't judge.

I've been lusting these for the longest time, ever since the lovely 25fLONDON posted her amazing collection of these lipsticks. Being the cheap cosmetics lover that I am, though, I've always been a bit put off by the price - nearly a fiver for lipsticks that don't actually leave much colour and have the tackiest packaging I've seen in a long time? Not convinced.

Beehive, now sadly ruined after suffering severe squash injuries. It melted and as I tried to applied it the bullet snapped off and I had to fix it back on as best as I could (so not very well).

I asked for one for Christmas and my lovely parents got me Beehive. Hooked, I invested in two more when they were half price on the Boots website. Erm, and then I bought another three. Which equals quite a lot of sheer makeup. Ah well.

Ironically, I appear to be wearing 17's Magnetic Nail Polish in 'Lilac' in these shots. Coincidences!

Left to Right: Plum Perfection, Peace, Hollywood, Purple Haze, Cookie, Beehive (at the bottom)

Lip swatches coming soon!

MUA Pro Plumping Lip Gloss

2012-02-20T00:44:00.000Z

When MUA were doing their promotion on the new plumping lip gloss, I bought four because I like overkill.
Now in my defence, these are gorgeous.

MUA have really classed up the packaging for this 'Pro' line. Me gusta.

Left to right: Nude, Pin Up Pink, Sienna, Buff

THE PIGMENT TEST.

Bare lips for you.

(and a poor quality photo)

Buff.
I like the fact they included two nudes in this selection of colours. This one fits me better but the other, 'Nude', isn't too far off so I'll be making good use of them both. Wise colour choice, MUA.

Sienna.

Probably the least pigmented of the bunch, it also has a slightly odd smell that I can't quite place - reminds me of plastic, a little. Not too keen on this one, but I find that orange lip products don't seem to like me much anyway!

Pin Up Pink.

Nice and pigmented, and the colour is perfectly apt for the name. Again, will be using this a lot.

Nude.

On me, this is a little 'ghost lips', but it's the sort of colour that would suit many people because it has such neutral undertones. When I've gone very heavy on the eyes, this is my lip product of choice.

Do they plump? Not on me. Glosses have a natural 'plumping' effect (as in, they make your lips look bigger because they're shiny and the light reflects more off them) and these do that, but they're not actually making my lips bigger, as far as I can tell. I'm thrilled to bits about that as I don't feel my lips need to be any bigger, but the 'plumping' aspect of this might be what has attracted other people to the product, and if so you may well be disappointed if it doesn't work for you.

There is a slight tingling sensation, but it's not too unpleasant - again, something I like because I don't enjoy feeling product on my lips and the better it behaves while it's there, the happier I am.

I would invest in the last two colours if they appealed to me, and if MUA fancies bringing out some more shades (some purples/plums, a red and a brown maybe? Ta.) I'd be all over those like a journalist on a juicy scoop.

I suck.

2012-02-20T00:42:00.000Z

At blogging. At life. At tweeting and replying to comments.

Especially as it's the month of my blogaversary. Forgive me? I'll attempt to make it up to you in a giveaway format...:)

This was meant to be a three word entry which would look very cool and 'indie' ~~hipster~~ but I suck at coolness too.

fml.

E.L.F Eyelid Primer in 'Golden'

2012-01-23T08:19:00.000Z

I'd heard a lot about E.L.F eye primers and how they're such a great budget option. Hence, on making my first E.L.F order, I popped this golden version into my cart.

I love the colour, and it does alter the colour of eyeshadows slightly (say, a blue might lean slightly more green than without this primer) which is the chief reason I bought it. It also can be worn alone with a bit of black eyeliner, just to add a bit of sparkle to the eye area. I've been lazy and have worn that twice this week, haha.

Major downside, for me, is that it's just not as long lasting as I'm used to. My eyeshadow doesn't stay put until I take it off like it does with my Urban Decay Primer Potion (in Eden, in case anyone was wondering) or even with my Elizabeth Arden one (though again, that does crease a little). This doesn't play nice with slightly moisturised eyelids at all (think insta-crease) which is a problem for me as I religiously moisturise all over my face each morning. My eyelids aren't particularly oily but this does have faint creaselines around lunchtime (barely noticeable, but not the flat canvas until the evening I get with my other primers) and by 6pm it's creased. Also, it doesn't 'grab' the shadow and provide a nice, mattified, surface for you to work and blend on - it's actually rather dry? So it doesn't aid application, either.

I like the effect I get from it, but it's not something I'd repurchase. This may just be an issue with this coloured one, though, and not indicative of the texture of the standard Eyelid and Mineral Eyeshadow primers. Not sure. I am going to be fair to it, though, and say that for £1.50, it is pretty damn decent.

Anyone else tried this? How did you feel about it?

KIKO 222

2012-01-22T09:29:00.000Z

Nude...with a twist.

This really reminds me of a nail polish released in the Illamasqua Toxic Nature collection, but it's less weird.

As always, great application and lasted a few days without chipping and minimal tipwear. Pretty sure we've nearly reached the end of this intial KIKO polish haul, but I visited Westfield a week or so ago and I stocked up on some more...

Miss Sporty?

2012-01-21T11:19:00.000Z

I really wanted the glittery topcoat, and during the Christmas period Superdrug did a lot of promotions on various makeup lines. I can't remember what the exact deal was on Miss Sporty but it involved a free nail polish (I think) if you bought some other items from the range? I don't know. I'd been eyeing the topcoat for some time, so this just gave me a good excuse to get it.

I bought the brown colour because it looked unusual - yes, stupid on my part, as I know how horrid their nail polishes go after not very long. Still haven't tested it.

This is my second experience with their lipstick range - the first was when I was fourteen, and bought a not-very-opaque black lipstick to vamp around in and pose for Facebook photos wearing. Yup. Don't remind me. That one wasn't scented. I don't know if all their lipsticks are now scented or they've reformulated the range or it's just this one or what. But this smells very strongly of bubble gum, just like it's name. It's quite novel, for me - I like it!

The colour is halfway between sheer and opaque...highlights lines in a not very flattering way, and I don't have very 'liney' lips. Might be a bit too light, as well. I like it as a somewhat wearable way into the whole 'peach/bright lips' trend that was big last summer, though knowing my luck it won't be this summer.

Thoughts?

Softlips 'French Vanilla' flavoured lip balm

2012-01-20T11:10:00.000Z

This is cute, you gotta admit.

It does smell of French Vanilla but also of menthol. I'm not that keen on putting menthol on my lips, personally (I know some people are huge fans) but the tube is cute and the balm does it's job well. The smaller size is great for those who have smaller lips (not me) or just freaks like me who love cute shizz. This is cute. I like it. The poorly hidden K-pop fan in me wants to scribble all over it in Hangeul and pretend it's made by Etude House, and I too can look cute like my favourite K-pop celebs by using it. I don't know why, or what's wrong with me.

Pretty much the only downside to this is the quantity. This was £1.25 (or thereabouts, I think. Maybe a little more) from Superdrug, and you get 2g of product in this stick, whereas a 'normal' sized balm from say Nivea would be about 4g and about £1.70, or if you go for the own brand versions, around the same price as the Softlips. The way I see it, I'm paying for the cute packaging - which is fine. I know and understand that, and made my decision. But this doesn't work miracles on my bone dry lips, nor does it really taste of anything (smells of something though) so it's not like a miracle lip treatment for me. IT'S SO CUTE THOUGH.

Seriously, I consider this the budget of obtaining cuteness without paying through the nose for some authentic Asian brand on eBay. Wait until payday rolls around again, then I can afford the real deal.

MUA Pro, I have neglected you.

2012-01-20T10:18:00.000Z

Recently, I've bought an incredible amount of MUA's Pro range, and just haven't blogged about it. I'm not sure why.

yes

After my disastrous first experience with their Pro mascara, I returned to it a month or so later to find it had improved in formula considerably - much thicker and easy to work with. It delivered the promised volume, too (not much in length, but hey) so I take back some of my previous upset with it. I maintain a mascara should work well straight out of the tube, though, and not have to ferment like yeast or something before it's effective.

I also purchased the MUA Pro Lip Balms, which you can read about here.

No7 Stay Perfect Nail Polish in 'Lucky Lilac'

2012-01-19T23:09:00.000Z

Wanting to get in on the whole pastels-for-spring trend on time this year, I bought this in late autumn/early winter. It's not the best No7 polish I've tried...

It was pretty runny to apply, but surface-dried in seconds, so you'd pass your brush nearby and get drag and brushmarks in the polish. Although it surface-dried quickly, actual drying time was longer than average, and you had to be careful of denting it even three or so hours after initial application. Bubbles formed on my thumb and middle finger, and the whole thing feels heavy on the nail - like you've got layers and layers of paint on, even if it's only two or three coats. The shape of No7 bottles really doesn't help either...globs of polish drip down as you're painting. All in all, wouldn't repurchase. I usually like No7's nail line, but perhaps their pastels are a colour family to stay away from.

E.L.F All Over Cover Stick in 'Toffee'

2012-01-15T13:29:00.000Z

The second makeup item in my E.L.F order, I was pretty curious as to whether this would actually resemble the website's photographs at all. That's the problem with E.L.F not having a physical store presence - you have to, for the most part, rely blindly on online swatches. Luckily, this fit me really well.

For a physical colour comparison that you can actually swatch in store, I'd suggest Sleek 'Hide It' concealer in shade 4. I own both and the colours are almost dupes (I'd say Sleek has ever so slightly darker red undertones) but the E.L.F is a lot cheaper and the mechanism is less prone to breaking. On the flipside, the Sleek is unscented, whereas the Cover Stick has a sort of orangey, sugary smell? Not sure how to feel about that. It's not unpleasant, just an interesting choice for a face product.

The way I like to use this is as a concealer. I dip my finger in and just put it over some dark spots on my face, rubbing slightly. I then go over with powder, and it stays all day. I think this is a bit too thick to use under the eyes, but for concealing blemishes it's great. It's quite creamy, so blends well, and doesn't dry your skin out.

Recently, this has been my 'go to' face makeup. Conceal with this, light dusting of powder, and I'm off to school. Takes almost no time in the morning and looks effective. Another winner from E.L.F, in my opinion. I like it when you can finally understand the hype about a company.

Applied thickly.

Blended in - you can barely see it!

Long gone.

2012-01-13T14:08:00.000Z

If you were looking for actual words in this post, unfortunately you're out of luck :P Christmas cosmetics spam, that's all.

E.L.F Studio Conditioning Lip Balm in 'Berry'

2012-01-12T17:54:00.000Z

This was the first thing I tried as soon as I opened the box my order came in, and I am seriously impressed.
It's easy to apply (but not too soft. It's a 'just right' consistency, not the sort of product that you hesitate to leave in a pocket for fear that it melts, cough cough, Mirror Shine lipsticks) and leaves a visible tint which is easily layered for greater intensity. Smells yummy, too.

What sells this product for me, though, is the sheer moisturising power it delivers. I have very dry lips, as I've mentioned before. On average, my lips peel/shed skin/bleed about every one/two days if I don't religiously apply balm every hour or so (I know that's pretty quick and there's probably some underlying deficiency or something somewhere, but they've been this way for as long as I can remember) and thus makes it difficult for me to wear lip colours and such, as they're constantly in bad shape. This kills two birds with one lipbalm pot - it delivers the moisture while giving me colour. I don't have to reapply excessively either, as the effects stick around for a while even after it's long gone.

Anyone else find these pretty damn decent for £3.50, or am I a total anomaly? In my opinion, in terms of conditioning power and pigmentation these own the Sleek Pout Polishes, no contest. Plus, those taste abysmal.

L'Oreal Double Extension Lash Beauty Tubes

2012-01-09T08:35:00.009Z

Behold, my mascara saviour.

After my hideous incident with the MUA mascara, I was lucky in that I had another in my drawer to try. I'd not had any prior experience with these two step mascaras, so it was quite exciting for me to brush on the white primer side and then the black mascara side. I got definition, length, and a little volume. It's pretty easy to layer, as well, so you can create a very dramatic look with little effort. I personally like the brush, as well. While I prefer the plastic ones, this is like a traditional bristle brush with shorter bristles, so it's pretty cylinderical. I find it makes for both great application and control.

Having had this for a little while now, I can say that the black side of the formula does thicken up considerably, and turns almost...rubbery? Making it a lot less pleasant to use, have to say. The trade off being that it does deliver a lot more volume with that added thickness. I've been using it for about three months. I think this is a repurchase, though it is more expensive and won't last me as long as the other mascaras I use. But the time it saves me in the morning (no need for cleanup, quick application) is worth it, I feel.

Some hideously messy pictures to illustrate my point:

Anyone tried this one? Or even better, knows of a dupe that doesn't change consistency so dramatically?

The Christmas E.L.F

2012-01-08T12:33:00.001Z

The reason I named this post as is was because even though I ordered these well after the last posting date (in time for arrival before Christmas) they still arrived two days before Christmas. Pretty impressive, when you consider that it was during a sales period, too.
Very impressed with everything I ordered (though not with the fact that they reduced the price of the kabuki from £6 to £3 after I'd ordered it) and as always, full reviews of everything will be coming. Eventually. As soon as I'm done with my exams :/ I hate exams.

The price? A measly £14, including postage. In all fairness, the discount was 40% off...even so, E.L.F do promotions more often than Rihanna releases singles. It's pretty rare to pay full price for an E.L.F order, something that makes them even more affordable than they already are.

First impressions are /very/ good.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T23:52:00.000Z

Hoping everyone had a great New Years Eve/Day! It feels strange to think we're in a new year. Time flies...

Tonight, it's late. Let me present you with pictures of 2011's collective, last minute haulin'. We're talking days before Christmas here.

I'm seriously running out of interesting titles. (Kiko 273)

2011-12-24T19:10:00.001Z

JUST LOOK AT THE PRETTY*

*slightly sarcastic, I am aware that my cuticles are minging. The dry, unforgiving winter air decided to vacuum every last drop of moisture out of my already Gobi-esque hands. Thanks winter. I really appreciate it.

This is the free Nails Inc polish, 'Basil Street', that Glamour magazine were giving away, over which a layer of Kiko nail polish is applied. I quite like the 'flaky' effect that this one gives, and I don't own any other top coats like it, so I consider it a good buy.

As always, the Kiko polish had an impeccable formula and this manicure lasted for about four days without chips, which is a big thing for me as my nails are quite chip prone :/ Basil Street took about three coats to get to the level of opacity that I really like, but two are more than sufficient for most others.

I decided to go classier this year and stick to a nude polish. The Kiko topcoat creates a sort of shimmering effect, almost like rain or snowflakes. Christmassy enough? Probably not. I didn't really put any effort in *hangs head*.

Wishing all blog readers a really happy Christmas!

Sleek MakeUP 'The Berry Collection'

2011-12-18T13:02:00.000Z

Don't care how late to the party I am on this one. It's awesome.

£10 from Superdrug, this was a birthday present from my lovely siblings. The set consists of a blush, a lipstick and an eye pencil.

I'm enjoying this a lot more than Sleek's holiday offering from last year, the Sparkle palette. To me, it feels like better value for money (buying a blush, an eye pencil and a lipstick from Sleek seperately would cost you more than £10) and they're all full sized products, not to mention imminently more useable than a palette full of glitter.

Left to Right: Fenberry Blush, Cranberry Lipstick, Mossberry Eyeliner

I actually find it hard to go overboard with my application of this blush, even though it's as pigmented as all the others in the range. There's something about the dark, dusky finish that just looks more natural than the others in my collection. That may just be a skintone quirk, though - I'm thinking that if you're lighter or have different undertones then you may need to exercise caution with this just as with any other darker blush.

While the Eye Kohl (Mossberry) is pigmented on any other part of my body, I find when I apply it to the eye I'm just not getting the pigment out. It's too hard to press effectively on such a delicate area, which I found a bit of a shame. I've got no problems wearing that colour near my eyes, however.

Instead, I've used it as a lip liner in these (seriously poor) photos. It matches the lipstick really well and has decent lasting power, so why not?

The lipstick, Cranberry, is described as matte, but I don't find that entirely true. It seems like a cross between Sleek's Sheen formula and their old matte formula for their pre-revamp True Colour lipsticks. It's more moisturising and appears slightly more glossy than a pure matte lipstick, but still has the lasting power required to make it through a few drinks (I tested this out in the name of blogging, by the way. College Christmas party on Monday...enough said, really.)

Anyone else have this one?

Klorane

2011-12-12T13:50:00.004Z

Not too long ago, MakeupSavvy posted about an awesome offer from Klorane. The deal was, simply register and indicate your choice of product, and they'd send you a full sized shampoo and conditioner, absolutely free. Naturally, not having heard of this brand but thinking it was a good opportunity to test it out, I went for it.

The day afterwards, MakeupSavvy edited her post, saying that the brand had contacted her and told her the offer had changed. Now, it was a sample sized product they were giving away, and they weren't accepting any more applicants anyway.

I'm not sure there's another way a brand could have put me right off their products, permanently, any more forcefully. Contacting a beauty blogger to promote your products and giving her incorrect information...not on, at all. Brands wouldn't make this sort of huge mistake (assuming it wasn't deliberate) in their dealings with magazines, would they? So why isn't this sort of professionalism found in brand/blogger interactions?

Companies, bloggers aren't toys and they're not inferior to magazines. Klorane, your samples are going in the bin.

OPI

2011-12-11T13:43:00.000Z

My Mum recently gave me a mini bottle of an OPI polish that she wasn't keen on the colour of. That was my first experience of an OPI product for myself, actually.

Unfortunately, I don't actually know the name of this polish as OPI don't put names on the bottle of their mini polishes...can anyone help me out here?

These are adorable. Will probably get used up in three or four more applications, of course, but they're just so cute.

It's not too visible in the swatches, but there is a faint silver shimmer running through the polish. Not the most unique colour, but a good staple that I've been lacking in my collection for some time. I don't own many pink polishes, strangely enough.

And yes, those are moustaches on my nails. I did these on the last day of Movember.

superdrug spending.

2011-12-11T00:27:00.001Z

I finally got paid from my job, and promptly took it upon myself to spend lots of money. As you can tell.
This was the first of many shopping trips - and now Christmas is coming up, I will spend even more...

Luminous Pressed Powder (Shade 3) from Sleek, Superdrug Facial Wash (99p)

Having heard good things about their mud masks, I put one of those in my basket as well. This is the 'Deep Cleansing' type. While I will probably do a quick review on it, I've used it twice with good results so far.

I also picked up a tube of MUA's new Professional Eye Primer. My much disliked Elizabeth Arden primer is finally nearing the end of the tube, so it's time for a new one.

Completely unrelated, but I found an Asian Supermarket in Brighton! My friends were entirely unenamoured with the place so practically dragged me out, but I was in love. Definitely returning.

The Krispy Kreme was unrelated. Basically, while we were out shopping, we went into a Krispy Kreme and the man serving us was not only hilarious but offered us free samples. After one taste, we unanimously decided to ~~buy the counter~~ take three. Brilliant salesman, him.

November Empties (and a cheap makeup wipe review)

2011-11-30T17:21:00.000Z

On time! Sort of. yeah.

The big thing this month, for me, has been wipes. I love wipes. After a long day at college and an hour or two or three or four or yeah spent doing nothing productive on the Internet, you realise you have three pieces of homework due in the next day and so stay up until 5:30 doing them, sleep for an hour and then up to go to school again (yes, this has happened to me. On more than one occasion.) In this situation, makeup wipes save your skin from taking that hour long nap smothered by your makeup. Even though recently, I've been wearing my homemade BB Cream, it's not an actual cream - that is, you still need to remove it like you would regular makeup, especially if you put powder over the top like I do. It can still clog pores. So a quick wipe down with one of these minature blankets of goodness and maybe a quick rinse/cleanse if I remember, and that is all too often, my nighttime skincare routine.

I finished one packet of these Primark wipes and still have another to go...can't say I'm that keen, in all honesty. Their smell really puts me off, and they feel a little abrasive once you're done with them - I can't tell whether my skin feels strongly exfoliated or a little raw. If you don't moisturise immediately afterwards, your skin feels incredibly dry. All in all, I'm not keen. These are a pound for two packets of 25 wipes (so essentially, a pound for 50 wipes) which is good value for money. I suggest you try them and see whether you like them for yourself, but if you don't like strong smells then steer clear.

This Elizabeth Arden toner doesn't actually come with a spray pump, I fixed one on. I can't say I really know what to look for in a toner...(yes, that is a cop out) but this one seems nice. It gets off any remaining makeup on my skin, which is what it's for, right?

Lastly, these Tesco Value wipes. I personally prefer these to the Primark ones any day. They don't have a strong, unpleasant scent; they're soft and gentle on my skin, and leave it feeling slightly moisturised (or at least, not as dry). 25 wipes cost around 28p, I believe - clear winners here are Tesco. When I take that inevitable leap into University life, my student finances will welcome these.

What makeup wipes do you use?

The Lazy Student: Make Your Own BB Cream

2011-11-29T18:30:00.001Z

Companies, you're ignoring me? Well I'm ignoring you. It's BB time.

(Before we get too into this, let me just warn you that I prefaced the actual BB 'recipe' with a load of analysis and discussion. If you don't like words, feel free to skip to the end!)

While having never actually tried one, being a K-pop fan does mean that you're exposed to lots of facets of Korean (and by extension, Asian) culture, so I did know a bit about BB Creams before they became popular amongst those in the West (outside of the Asian diasporas). I'm sure everyone has heard the abridged biography of BB Cream before, developed for plastic surgery rehabilitation, 'beauty balm/blemish balm', ultra amazing and awesome on your skin yadda yadda.

The main thing that put me off, personally, from trying one was that each company only makes them in a few shades, and obviously a product geared towards countries like Korea or Japan is going to cater to the fact that they are incredibly ethnically homogenous. Something like 99.98% of Koreans are ethnically Korean, so I'm guessing dark brown/creamy pink toned BB Creams wouldn't sell so well over there, because they're just not going to suit, well, anyone. I can understand that.

Once Western companies got interested in the concept and started manufacturing their own 'versions' (from what I've heard and seen, many are nothing like the versions sold in Asia) then I had expected to see a wider available shade range. For one, in general the cosmetic industry here seems to encompass a wide variety of choice, when it comes to skincare, as standard. Most foundation/tinted moisturiser lines have at least five or six different shades to choose from, as it's widely accepted that people want to be able to find the closest match to their own skin. Generally, features like whitening/brightening are less valued, compared to mattifying or moisturising properties. They're different markets, yet companies seem to have half heartedly lifted 1/3 of what BB Creams are actually about and returned with this awkward, greasy, tinted moisturiser mish mash of fail.

While I'm not a marketing expert, I'm doubtful that the 'one or two shades in the entire line' model will succeed in the West. I think part of it's success in Asia (East) is due to the general cultural acceptance of harmony and cohesion as societal ideals, whereas the West is very focused on individuality which would lead to someone brought up in the West perhaps being more inclined to seek out his or her own unique shade. I dunno. I do know that the major drugstore BB Creams being brought out so far come in one or two very light shades, which excludes quite a lot of people from using them. 17's is basically the same shade repeated twice with slightly altered undertones :/ No good for me. I've heard of girls mixing foundation in with their BB Cream, to correct the shades, but to me that would mean that I was getting less of the benefits of wearing it. By percentage, if the amount of BB Cream present is decreasing (because you're adding foundation to it) then the skincare benefits are decreasing as well. If I'm going to spend a substansial amount of money ordering cosmetics from halfway around the world, I want to make sure I can use them! I suppose the exception would be if I ordered something and recieved BB Cream satchets as free samples, but even so...

What I would personally love to see would be a range of BB Creams similar to what can be found in Asia - different benefits including brightening/healing/SPF protection, the lot - but it's unlikely a company is going to take that huge risk in producing that, or at least not until the craze has truly taken off.
Knowing this, I set about making my own, or at least an approximation of it. First, I looked at what BB Creams actually are or are meant to do.

Whiten
This isn't actually something I'm looking for in my own BB Cream, however if it's an aspect that interests you, I suggest you just go a shade lighter on the foundation that you use when you're making it! I haven't tried this but it looks like it'd work.

Brighten
This is more of an area of interest for me...a nice 'glowy' look is always welcome, especially in winter when everyone is ill and miserable. Many BB Creams that offer brightening as a selling point make use of tiny, light reflective gold (or more commonly, silver) particles to bounce light off the face. I'm thinking of

Protect
The good thing about making your own is that you can judge the level of protection your skin needs at any given time and tailor the cream to it. For example, now we've moved to a bigger town I want to up my coverage as there's more environmental pollution which could introduce toxins etc. onto my skin. So I add slightly thicker ingredients like E45 cream to provide a little more of a barrier between myself and the ~~smog~~ car drivey gases. Also, if you're someone that burns easily, add a little more SPF (if you're using a seperate one) or a moisturiser with a higher SPF if you're combining it, like me.

Heal
Again, this is something you can fix entirely to your liking. I have rare eczema flare ups and sometimes tiny patches of dry skin, so those times I might add more moisturising ingredients to my BB Cream. At the moment, I'm trying to shift some dark marks from a recent crop of spots, so more moisture and perhaps a little RescueOil is needed there. If you're recovering from a sunburn, adding some Sudocrem might do wonders (or whatever your favourite post-sun exposure treatment is). Alternatively, recent waxing or a rash on the face could do with a higher percentage of moisturiser to soothe the area.

Moisturise
This is a big one for me. I have really, REALLY dry skin. Many people don't like the feel of a heavy moisturiser on their face, though, so might choose something lighter. In the winter, most people require more moisture than in the summer, due to the action of the wind and cold drying out and chapping away at exposed skin on the face.

Conceal
This one is a bit iffy to me. Most BB Creams, including the Western versions that I have tried, won't function as a heavy duty concealer - don't be misled. Rather, they help to even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of say fine lines and redness/sallowness.

Prime
They're all meant to be a primer too, and to stay on your face all day. When you apply many BB Creams, they have a wonderful slip to them because silicones are often pretty high on the list. I added MUA's primer to mine and it makes my skin feel lovely. Obviously, if you react badly to silicones in your skincare products you would need to reconsider their inclusion in your own BB Cream.

This in mind, let's get started.

The only picture you have seen thus far is of most of the things that I used while making my BB Cream. I'm using an empty Johnson's face cream jar to store it all in. First, I squirted a few pumps of this awesome sunblock spray. It's SPF 30 and invisible (as well as being water resistance, so it shouldn't react badly with any of the other ingredients in my BB Cream), so the fact that it was liquid not only helped the mixability of the cream but also made it smoother, and it spreads easier on my skin. However, cream sunblock is great too if that's what you have at hand. Depending on it's consistency, it'll make your cream thicker.

Next, I added a few squirts of the MUA face primer, which is almost like a thin lotion but adds much needed silicones to the formula, which not only help it go on smoother and make your skin feel almost silky, but help it to last longer on your face. With a bit of powder, this can last all day on me (does depend on how much I've had my head in my hands, though. Bad habit...)

To this, I added some pumps of a more liquidy E45 lotion. I have both the runnier kind and the firmer stuff in a tub, and both are totally great for this. I do find the firmer type needs a bit of warming up before use so to make this quicker for me, I added more of the liquid type. But for forming more of a barrier against those air pollutants, I'll up the amount of the solid kind. Personally, I find these lotions very healing and they don't irritate my skin at all, but they do contain parabens and lanolin so if you are sensitive to those ingredients, add something else that is kinder to your skin.

It's not pictured, but I then added truckloads of the Johnson's face cream. It's got an SPF of 15, which obviously isn't the same as the extra sunblock I added. One of my friends, when I was younger, once told me that adding two SPFs of different strengths meant that one 'divided' the other, so 30/15 = an SPF of 2. This sounded like complete bull to my fourteen year old self, but can anyone out there confirm it?

Finally, I added some tint to my huge pile of creams and lotions. Depending on how much coverage you want, you can adjust the amount of foundation you add. I put a 'medium' amount, perhaps about eight or so squirts? Give or take.

Mixed together:

I made mine more watery than maybe some other people would like, but I dig this consistency at the moment - it's very light.

You can see the slight sheen it's left on my hand - nice and dewy, but not what I'd class as 'glowy' because there aren't any sparkles in it. As I said before, I add those later with my powder.

Thoughts on the (lack of) shade range in BB Creams? Have any of you tried to do anything similar?

Forever Empties

2011-11-28T17:07:00.000Z

I believe the last time I did one of these posts was yonks ago. So this is a few (a really small snapshot, actually) of the products I've used up since then.

Body scrub by the Sanctuary, Chit Chat pressed powder (empty pan) No7 Extreme Definition Mascara, Johnson's Daily Essentials 24 Day Cream for normal skin, Ted Baker travel size body souffle and also Max Factor Mineral Foundation in 'Bronze' (I kept it in the empty container after the moisturiser was used up).

The body scrub was quite good but not great or outstanding. The scent was pleasant and the colour and everything great. I don't think I'd repurchase as it didn't wow me.

The Chit Chat pressed powder was good for a quid. I liked the fact it was totally matte, disliked the fact that the shade range was so limited. This sat around, unused and unloved, for ages as for years I never used it. Since September, I've been getting into wearing a little powder or tinted moisturiser/BB Cream on my face, so it fell back into use. Unfortuately, the lid of the powder broke in my bag and about a third was spilt all over my schoolbooks and homework. From then on, it was relegated to my (imaginary) dressing table. Each time I used it thereafter, a little more (or a lot more) would crumble away, and finally one day I swear it up and commited suicide by falling the foot or so in height between my table and the floor, immediately shattering into a million billion tiny pieces and making a hideous mess in the carpet. Why me?

I really liked the No7 mascara, and as soon as I run out of my current ones, I will probably pick up another tube of this. The brush is the plastic kind that I favour, and the formula is great and isn't too wet (which I abhor). It does define well and doesn't take long to apply in the mornings. Thumbs up from me.

The moisturiser was so so...my review is linked. It's not as moisturising as I'd like, but that's my fault for not buying the dry skin one instead.

^All since used up.

The body souffle was just alright. Nothing remarkable. The foundation is good, if a little orange toned on me. For a mineral foundation, the coverage isn't bad when applied with the right brush.

MUA Pro 'Extreme Volume' Mascara - dupe for Elizabeth Arden's Natural Volume Mascara?

2011-11-25T23:13:00.001Z

You know when a product gets so many things right, yet so many things wrong?

This is one of those products.

Before I launch into my review, firstly I am very sorry about not blogging recently - between school and work and everything, I really haven't had enough time :( I want GCSEs back!

Right, so from a totally objective point of view, the design of this mascara makes it look more expensive than it is. The huge, chunky black tube brings back memories of Elizabeth Arden's Natural Volume Mascara, though it's less weighty than its high end counterpart. Again, the brush is similar - chunky, unwieldy, hard to use and really messy (for me at least). The formula is wet. Very wet. Those that are fans of multiple coats may like that - I, pioneer of the 'wave it in the general direction of your eyes and go' technique, am not. It ruins my eyeshadow and gets all underneath my bottom eyelashes, ironically, just like the far more expensive but equally annoying Natural Volume mascara.

Does it supply volume to my lashes? I find this hard to judge, as the mascara is so hard to use anywhere near the base of my lashes that it's impossible to judge simply from application to the middle and the tips. It doesn't have much of a lengthening effect, but does make them blacker and thicker. Not by an incredible amount, but you can tell the difference.

This would have ended up being a 'so so' review if not for a serious incident on Saturday. If you've been reading long enough to remember this, my chief complaint with the Elizabeth Arden mascara:

The final, unforgiveable act of this mascara is that it left me weeping and broken on the floor of my bedroom. No lies. I was applying it and somehow managed to get it in my eye (who knows how? I don't) and within seconds I was a sobbing, mascara covered mess. Oh God, the burn. THE BURN. It hurts so much. It was like napalm in the eye. NAPALM, I TELL THEE.

How history repeats itself.
On Saturday, I was happily lifeguarding, wearing a couple of coats of the MUA Pro 'Extreme Volume' mascara for the first time. Up on the flume towers, happily watching ten year olds scream like they were at Thorpe Park while riding the tamest water slide to ever exist...when suddenly, disaster struck. Some combination of the moist, chlorine tinged air and the heat must have led to some of the mascara entering my eye, and I felt the most hideous, burning pain one could imagine in beauty terms. Worse than having your favourite lipstick being ground into the carpet by an unruly three year old niece or nephew. Worse than your pressed powder breaking inside your bag and spreading all over your homework due in for next period. WORSE THAN NAPALM IN THE EYE

Weeping, sobbing and getting looks from concerned customers, I bravely tried to fight it out for all of three minutes before breaking down and waving blindly at a collegue to cover me for five minutes so I could hose the offending substance out of my eye. After that experience, no. Just no.

Sleek True Colour Lisptick in 'Mystic' Review

2011-11-05T20:52:00.000Z

Needless to say, I prefer this colour to 'Barely There' (although having said that, I have found a way to make it work in a way that does actually suit me).

The lipstick is fuschia, but the lip swatch makes it lean slightly more pink than it actually is. Easy to apply, pretty moisturising, and a truly matte lipstick that leaves a stain. Staying power on this is really good. I can (and have) made it through to lunchtime at school having only partially reapplied once, and it doesn't feel heavy on the lips or drag excessively during application.

My one gripe would have to be with the size of Sleek lipsticks in general. They just seem rather small, for four quid? I don't know, I'm just used to recieving more product, personally. I do like the packaging, which doesn't roll away if you set it on a flat surface. The rubberised finish reminds me of a brand like NARS, but does pick up miniscule scratches if you leave it knocking around in a bag or a drawer like myself.

I know you've seen these pictures before, sorry :P There's not enough daylight to take new ones!

Aren't you all sick of my lips by now? (I hope not, because Pout Paint swatches are coming up...)

Want to see something really scary?

2011-11-03T21:48:00.000Z

OK, so this year I planned out a proper Hallowe'en post and everything. Did the nails, took the photographs etc. well in advance. After a long day at school on the 31st (I was a little bit excited though, as we never have school on Hallowe'en. I decided to take a 'quick nap' and went to bed at like 5 pm, fully intending to be up in time to post this at a suitably witchy hour.

I woke up at half eleven, ladies and gentlemen. Half eleven. Missed all the trick-or-treaters and everything :( Highly depressed, I set about doing all my homework and didn't get a chance to post this until it was too late and Hallowe'en had been and gone. I still think these photos are too potentially shocking to miss, though.

Orange polish.
With black nail stamping.
Then black crackle polish.
Then PINK crackle polish.

BEHOLD

ARE YOU SCREAMING YET

I was. Looked like my nails were decaying, to be honest with you.

aaaargh.

If you're a real daredevil, here's a bonus of WINTER FEET.

rawr.

Hoping all the brave souls that battled their way to the end of this post had a more enjoyable Hallowe'en than myself?

Kiko 259

2011-10-24T13:44:00.000+01:00

I'm going to be honest, I just didn't like this one.

It was sheer and not particularly easy to build up - you're looking at three/four coats here, and it doesn't really feel opaque - and the formula wasn't great. It was more runny than the other Kiko polishes I've tried and didn't dry as quickly, so I smudged it on a couple of nails as well. In the end, I just felt like covering it with glitter, so that's exactly what I did.

So much nicer this way. The glitter, by the way, is Funky Fingers.

You can see a little of the unadulterated colour on the ring finger. I wasn't keen on it anyway, to be honest. I guess this Kiko will stay in the franken box.

I guess we all get dud polishes sometimes? *tries not to cry*

MUA Pro 'Starry Nights' Eyeshadow Palette Review

2011-10-17T21:06:00.000+01:00

While I know the vast majority of the ~~human race~~ beauty blogging world seem to consider 'Heaven and Earth' as the standout palette from the MUA Pro range, I personally think this little beauty more than gives it a run for its' money. Perhaps it's the oversaturation talking (after the first TOWIB everyone seemed to have got one for free, subsequently blogged about it stating it's awesome, and I did get more than sick of hearing about it) and I know that obviously with something as personal as a palette, personal preferences as to eyeshadow combinations come into play, but I still think, as objectively as I can do (not very, fyi), that this is a damn good investment too, if not more so than the Heaven and Earth palette.

MUA have really played to their strengths here - although I feel that's something that can be said for the majority of the Pro line, perhaps excluding their Pretty Pastels palette - in that they've collated a good mix of neutral, smoky, and highlight colours (with the odd bright or two to add interest) using their signature shimmer formula. I think MUA shimmer eyeshadow colours really are a love or hate thing - you're either like myself, and adore the fact that they're so pigmented yet cheap, as well as being easy to apply and layer, or you belong to the 'hate' camp, who dislikes their somewhat unique 'oily' texture (I suspect mineral oil is involved in their formulation, somewhere) and finds them difficult to blend and prone to creasing. If you were a fan of the core line eyeshadows, you'll like these - the formula is very similar, but the oil content seems to be slightly toned down (a good thing.)

All are shimmer finishes, with a few of the darker shades having some added glitter. The colours are actually far more complex than my camera is giving them credit for - with every shift of the light, even the neutrals change in inensity and tone slightly - so I tried to capture two of the main colour phases in the swatches. Not entirely convinced that I did a great job...

I think I have the dark purple colour in this palette as a single eyeshadow (Shade 13, I believe) but I'm not complaining that I now have a backup. I use it often enough that soon I'll be able to see the pan, anyway. Even hardcore MUA collectors will have a hard time duplicating every shadow in this palette using the shadows in the core line, so I feel they've provided enough variety in the shade selection to keep most of us happy. Thoughts on their pro line of palettes?

Back To School/Early Autumn Nail Trends

2011-10-16T01:03:00.001+01:00

Similar to my Summer Nail Trends post, I selected a few (well, eleven) shades from my collection that I felt best represented what the early autumn landscape looks like, nail wise. Though I've been rather out of the loop, blogging wise, I kept up with reading my favourite blogs and from these, I formed an idea of what the current trends are (going to be? I don't know. I'm probably totally wrong, lol).

Yes, I photographed these over my Physics textbook, for I am a hardcore nerd.

Companies seem to be bringing out the foiled, irridescent colour shifting polishes at the moment in gorgeous antique colours (I'm seeing lots of old golds and greens) such as the Model's Own Beetlejuice collection (sourced from Vampy Varnish)...the Inheritance fan in me hopes that this is a sort of nail polish celebration of the release of the last in the series but somehow I really doubt that. What? The strong duochromes remind me of dragon scales, OK?

Geekery aside, the other new fad seems to be magnetic nail varnish, which I think is lining up to replace the mighty crackle. The colours of the polishes again fit the model of the 'autumn trend' - that is, they're darker and shimmery, but I'm wondering if it's going to catch on like the crackle trend simply because including a magnet with your nail polish is going to make it more expensive, and there isn't really a way to get past that. While the cheapest crackle polishes retail for about £6, you can buy a crackle for £1.99 from W7, or just a pound more from the MUA Pro range.

Finally, I've seen loads of lilac around recently. This may just be where I live, but pastel lilac nails seem to be really popular over here...so I bought two new ones, one from No7 and one from MUA, so I could be a sheep and take part in this new and fascinating obsession with the lilac colour. *shrugs* Purple in general seems to be a huge thing at the moment, both in clothes and in cosmetics. Perhaps it's something to do with the recession? Isn't purple linked to royalty? Maybe there's some sort of subconscious thing going on there.

Onto the photographs...

Right hand (from left to right):
Nails Inc 'Lowndes Square'
MUA Shade '23'
No7 Stay Perfect Nail Colour in 'Vivid Violet' (I think. I 'borrowed' this one off my Mum to swatch, and she's asleep as I'm writing this post so I can't sneak into her room and double check!)
Funky Fingers 'Snakeskin'
Barry M 'Dusky Mauve'

I'm fully aware the Dusky Mauve phase has gone and passed, OK? But I included it as an example of a subtler colour shift. I do think the neutrals/mannequin hands trend is slowly passing right now, very few brands have included neutral colours in their line up.

Left hand (from left to right):
American Apparel 'Passport Blue'
No7 Stay Perfect Nail Colour in 'Lucky Lilac'
Barry M Nail Paint in 'Indigo'
No7 Speed Dry Nail Colour in 'Beautifully Black'
Kiko Makeup Milano '262'

Bonus polish, for sitting through all of that so nicely:

A gorgeously sparkling Kiko topcoat, to help add that bright, otherworldly look to the polishes in your collection - cheaper than buying loads more soley for the sake of the trend, in all honesty. I'm really up for buying all of that Beetlejuice collection, personally, but for now I'll make do with this to paint over my darker nail colours. It's beautiful in it's own right, really. I don't have nearly enough coloured/glittery topcoats.

Thoughts on the trends for Autumn? Do you like them, or are you staying away? If you do like them, which companies do you feel interpreted them best? I personally want to say Models Own, but 17 have really stepped up their game with their releases recently (I'm thinking about the BB Cream as well, even though the shade range is pants) so perhaps they deserve the crown.

EDIT: I'm pretty sure I got my hands mixed up and left is right and vice versa. I get so confused with these things, sorry!

ponponpon

2011-10-14T21:54:00.000+01:00

So, nearly a term into the new school year, I finally emerge from behind my humungous pile of AS textbooks to say hi. Huge apologies for the lack of warning before I suddenly stopped updating. The step up in workload from GCSE to AS is insane and far more than I'd expected, especially with Physics amongst those subjects (thinking about taking Physics? Don't take Physics. So much effort.) coupled with the fact that I'd also got a new job and suddenly my school got all these new, attractive people (hot boys in my Science classes, was I really meant to be concentrating on molecules?) and my days turned into incessent studying at home, socialising at school (yes, these two should be the other way around) and going out pretty much every Friday night before work on Saturday and a frantic homework catchup on Sunday. Once again, huge apologies.

Stuff I've missed, apparantly, and am looking forward to:

The Magnetic Nail Polish Trend

Apparantly 17 have just brought out/are bringing out a set of magnetic nail polishes for only six quid or so, compared to Nails Inc's price tag of like twelve (plus the colours are pretty much the same) so I'll be looking out for reviews on those.

MUA's Eye Primer

Finally, I can buy eye primer at Superdrug...

Winter Nail Colours

Maybe it was the grotesque lack of summer experienced in this country this year, but I'm really in the mood for some dark, brooding winter nail colours, especially with the upcoming metallic/foiled finishes that seem to be in season. My collection is mostly cremes and jellys so I'm up for the opportunity to expand somewhat.

High Street BB Creams

Garnier started it, 17 have bought one out (that I'm ignoring as it only has two very light shades) and MUA are planning to release one later on. ~~Please bring out some darker shades, please.~~

Inglot's Online UK Store

This was LONG overdue but I'm so psyched about it I can overlook the fact that we were basically the last people to get anything along those lines. I can continue to put off that trip to Westfield and order online - as soon as I get paid. I'm planning to /splurge/.

Hot Science Class Boys

Did I mention that we finally have some attractive people in my little old Catholic school. HELL TO THE YEAH

Fairy Hobmother?

2011-09-18T23:12:00.002+01:00

A few months ago when I commented on a post by the lovely Beauty's Bad Habit about the Fairy Hobmother, I was more than a little sceptical...who gives out things for free nowadays? No one.

Imagine my surprise when I was contacted recently by the mythical godmother herself. I recieved a very nice Amazon gift voucher (ironically, on the same day we bought and recieved a new washing machine from Appliances Online) and subsequently forgot to post about it, because I'm cool like that. Fail...in my defence, school has been all over the place.

Better late than never, right? So if you comment below, there is a chance that the Fairy Hobmother might grant you a wish, too!

Kiko 262

2011-09-12T17:07:00.000+01:00

I have a confession to make...when I first applied this, I was slightly - unexplicably - disappointed. From the bottle, I'd been expecting this rich purple colour with some silver flash and all that, but in my artificially lit study, with the glow of my laptop screen as extra, I was just seeing three coats of a mauve polish with lots of pink, orange and a little green glitter in it. Nice - very nice, as it were - just not what I was expecting.

Viewing this baby in natural light, not to talk of sunlight, changed my mind completely.

Prettyyyyy.

Kiko, why you no name your polishes? Why you no readily available in the UK? Why you so pretty?

It's pretty opaque after three coats, but one thin one would do well as a coloured topcoat over a dark colour.

The name is Kiko. Kiko...262. Sounds like a prison number or something.

I didn't even have to colour-adjust for the purple to appear true to life. I'm pretty satisfied with this polish.

New MUA Polishes?

2011-09-11T22:50:00.000+01:00

I found these beauties in Superdrug, and seeing as I've never seen them before I assumed they were new. Aside from the huge 'NEW' sticker that they're wearing...

First up, this gorgeous orange/red/coral mixture. This applied REALLY well, even for an MUA polish (which, even when you don't take the price into consideration, apply fantastically) and the colour would make a good pedicure colour for the summer. Which is sadly over (or never began, whichever way you want to look at it) but that doesn't stop me from wearing it.

Another gorgeous, bright shade that applied well...I'm convinced MUA have tweaked their formula to make it even more lush to apply, because I don't remember them being this great. They dry well between coats, don't bubble and don't chip badly until a few days in. My one bugbear with this is that the writing on the sticker wore off in record time, which just makes the bottle look tacky.

The purple heart of love is there to protect your eyes from that gross hangnail (sorry Loodie!) Moisturise, people. Don't be like me.

The last polish that I'm going to show you is this kkakhi coloured one. It's like an avocado green with a bit of sage and then lots of grey...very on trend. I didn't really expect to see something like this from a budget brand, so I'm pleasantly surpised. It wasn't as dreamy to apply as the previous two but it was still above average, so no complaints there.

I noticed one more autumn release on the shelves, so picked it up - it was a very light lilac polish. Took it home, opened it up to find gunked up polish all around the screws on the bottle. I really, really hate it when people test polish in store that isn't a tester, so will be returning that bottle to Superdrug. Pissed off.

Operation Fix September Lena's Nails & Life

2011-09-01T21:39:00.000+01:00

Do you see what I did there with the title? DO YOU SEE WHAT I DID THERE?

If not, you need to follow me on Twitter. @SeptemberLena

So today is (just about) the first of September, 2011. All through the summer, even though I've had awesome nail polishes to wear, my peeling, soft, and weak nails are continually spoiling the fun. I refuse to take any more of this.

Behold:

For the month of September (all 30 days of it) I will religiously apply these two products. Every. single. day. The short, slightly ominious looking blue one says to only apply two/three times a week, but I'm living on the edge. Every day. Under polish, most likely. Lol. Old habits die hard etc etc.

It'll be my first experience with Mavala...aside from a nail varnish drying spray and a set of nail files, I haven't really experimented much with them, and especially not with their new, revamped image. I'm hoping this nail serum and hardener set will help my nails. That and obviously eating healthier but that's so much effort, yano?

Also, seeing as it's the whole 'going back to school' period of time, I was floating the idea of starting a fashion/outfit blog, to blog the outfits I wear to sixth form (no more uniform. SCORE.) Would that be something anyone is interested in? *is nervous*

Anyone else making 'resolutions' this September? I have an excuse, you see. It's the start of the school year!

this is a haul post

2011-08-30T18:14:00.000+01:00

I may or may not have gone a leeetle crazy once I got my GCSE money and erm, yeah. See for yourself. In my defense, I've been broke all summer!

These should have set me back £20, even with the promotion, but because I used a Superdrug voucher during the transaction, I only spent about £15 (WINNING).
On the release date of these, some bloggers had reported that the tubes felt crunchy when they felt them in the stores. I found that 'crunchy' sensation happened to almost every tube that I picked up. I suggest you go out and experience it yourself, because it's so odd - almost as if the tube was filled with little sugar crystals rather than highly pigmented lip related goodness. After comparing the feel of the testers to the actual product, I decided to bite the bullet and buy them anyway, correctly guessing that it was just the packaging - getting home and trying them out, they're as expected as soon as the packaging is removed. Yey.

A quick trip to Wilkos revealed a huge jar of petroleum jelly for just 50p (for making tinted lipbalms) three tubed lip balms in cute flavours, and then I went back to Superdrugs for the wax strips and asprin. I'm planning to do an asprin mask with the asprin, so that's why I included it. Lol.

Finally, I had no idea that MUA Cosmetics had new colours out? I picked up these gorgeous three on a whim. Two bright, almost-neon summery colour (a hot pink and a hot orangey-red) and then this gorgeous khaki shade for that painful transition to autumn. Well. It'd be painful if we'd actually had any sunshine this year...regardless, the dirty green shade is a really unusual addition to a budget cosmetics line. Hoping it performs...

Born Pretty Nail Art Stamping Polishes Review

2011-08-29T23:30:00.000+01:00

So I was lucky enough to recieve a set of these five polishes for review. On the site, these (at the time I looked) cost less than $7, which made them a far more affordable option than branded Konad polishes which are like $7 for one...

First off, I have no idea why the white one is so different from the others, but it works, so I'm not complaining. I tested the black one first, over the manicure I was already wearing which was Nails Inc 'Atomic'. It did end up as a sort of unintentional Hallowe'en manicure, so eventually I just used my witchiest stamping plate and went with it. I lined up my polish, plate and stamper/scraper, and got to work. The first thing I noticed was that even though the bundle monster plate lacked definition, the stamping polish was a lot more defined than the ordinary polishes I use, and I had a lot more time to play around with when positioning it on the nail. Usually, I fling it down on whichever available space I have as quickly as possible because I'm worried it's going to dry on the stamper (this has happened to me more than once) but yeah, I could take my time and the design was crisper for it at the end. Also, it didn't smudge when I was applying top coat.

I had exactly the same experience with the white polish, and really appreciated the fact that I could get lots of contrast between the base colour and the stamping colour - when I use ordinary polish, it's a lot harder to get them to stamp THAT opaque. Sadly, when I tried the yellow and red polishes, they were basically just like ordinary polish and weren't opaque at all. I haven't tested the blue yet but I suspect it'll be the same situation. Also, another thing that irked me was that I struggled to remove the lid of the red polish, and when I finally managed it, there was dried polish all around the cap - meaning it's either leaked in transit (unlikely, as there wasn't polish all over my package) or someone had used it before it was sent to me? Or perhaps a manufacturing error. Whatever it was, it was annoying.
While I appreciate having two very good stamping polishes, it's not the same as five very good stamping polishes, is it?

It's worth the money as you're getting two for the price of one, but it's a bummer that the other three shades don't work. I'm going to leave the other three shades opened out on a windowsill to see if they thicken up a little and work better, and I'll update if they do. But all in all, wasn't the huge bargain I was hoping for.

I also got a coupon code to share, if anyone wants it ask me!

It's Kiko Time

2011-08-25T18:56:00.000+01:00

So I'm back from Italy, and will just give you a rundown of the makeup related portion of the trip before DISPLAYING THE PRETTIES.

How and where to start? Well, we went to Italy and on the second day, we went to buy jewellery. While waiting around for the jewellery shops to open, we walked into a beauty store (reminded me of Superdrug) and there, on the walls, was the most gorgeous Labello display I've ever seen.

Naturally, I tried to get my mum to let me buy some but she wasn't having any of it ('We've got lip balms at home!') entirely missing the point which was that I NEED THESE FOR THE BLOG GAWD

Eventually, I admitted defeat and reasoned that we could come back another day and buy them. But as the days passed and Mum finally realised the IMPORTANCE OF THESE LIP BALMS, it became clear that we weren't returning. sob. And by the time she was prepared to help me buy them, it was a bank holiday in Italy (any excuse for a day off work, you slackers). And we were leaving the day afterwards! We stopped at two superstores on the way to the airport but all I turned up were these two poxy imposters.

By this time I was pretty furious, seeing as I'd SEEN what I wanted to blow my 30 euros on on like the second day, but I wasn't allowed to buy it. And they were only 1.50 euros each, compared to what I'd pay if I wanted to buy online from the UK (upwards of four quid including postage) so I totally sulked my way through security. Had a sneaky check in Duty Free but couldn't find anything but overpriced Toblerones.

On the way to the gate, however, I saw a Kiko store and SQUEALED. Yey for Kiko!
I should have taken photos but it was getting close to the time for them to open the gates, so I quickly chose what I wanted and left. The polishes were priced at 2.50 euros each, which I found very reasonable, but they also had a discounted bucket full of polishes at 1.50 euros which was even better. The majority of the cremes were 2.50, and the rest 1.50. I paid 15 euros in total (my Mum bought a polish too which isn't pictured. See, she can buy nail polish, but I can't buy lipbalm. no capito) and I'm pretty happy with what I got in return.

I'm genuinely upset about my Labellos, though. As soon as I regained internet access (no thanks to you, TalkTalk) I spent like three hours looking for sites that ship to the UK but it was a lot more expensive than it would have been to buy in Italy (1.50 versus nearly £3.70 a lipbalm, often not including postage) so yeah. Depressed. If anyone knows any reasonable sites that do it, please let me know!

My Kikos are beautiful though. Kiko Makeup Milano. Doesn't that just roll off the tongue?

Kiko Makeup Milano sounds like a name for a chav baby. I still like it though. For a cosmetics company.

Before, when I thought of 'Kiko', I thought of the gorgeous Japanese model Kiko Mizuhara. But then she had the bad taste to go out (not confirmed but it's so obvious) with the hideous lead singer rapper thing from the tryhard and tragic boyband Big Bang so she's on my shit list anyway. I fully embrace Kiko Makeup Milano as my new go-to Kiko of choice.

I'm in Miami, girl. (Part Two)

2011-08-15T06:09:00.000+01:00

This is for the cosmetics side of my luggage. I tried to keep it small, but...

Recently, I've been featuring Sleek products less and less on the blog (mainly because of their piss poor customer service, but also because it seems to be all that anyone ever blogs about) but I couldn't help the fact that they ended up being so prominent in my travel bag -.- Their thin size and multitasking nature makes them easy to take on holiday, OK? *is defensive*

Anyway, the three palettes are - 'Storm', 'Acid' and 'Primer' - though I'm not sure if the latter will last in the Italian heat - and I took a Face Contour kit in 'Dark' and a Sheer Cover lipstick in 'Calico'. I also took an MUA quad and liquid eyeliner, three No7 eyeliners and one Primark one (in bright orange) a Rituals lipgloss, a Miners lip tint and Urban Decay Primer Potion in 'Eden'.

Barry M 'Mushroom'

2011-08-14T17:41:00.000+01:00

£2.99 well spent, I'll give you that.

A very nice nude polish on my skin, but it's not one dimensional in colour as so many other nude cremes are. When I first saw this, I was convinced that the undertones were yellow, but viewing it outside in overcast weather, it looked almost like a muted purple. Most of the time, it hovers somewhere between the two depending on what angle you view it from. An achievement for a budget creme polish, yes?

Compared to Barry M's previous naming efforts, I'd say the title of this one is spot on.

Feel free to view it SUPAH SHINEE

I usually don't add an especially shiny topcoat onto my nude polishes if I'm aiming for manniquin hands, as the human body isn't especially shiny (unless you're sweating buckets or something) so I find it looks unnatural. But since this isn't any old nude polish, I thought it called for it.

Random fact: I think I prefer this with one coat, compared to two. No idea why...though in these pictures, you're seeing two coats.
This lasted, chip free (minimal tipwear) for four days on me - pretty damn good when polish is often falling off my nails within the hour.

Pretty European Lipglosses

2011-08-12T17:45:00.000+01:00

As I've probably mentioned before, I'm really not a lipgloss person as such. I find it just makes my already huge lips look like, freakishly huge, and often feels gross and greasy. Not a good combination on someone like myself who detests feeling anything remotely oily/greasy/sticky on my lips at all...

However, a while back I won a giveaway from the lovely Witoxicty and got this pretty awesome (going by the packaging) lipgloss. Naturally, I felt that this was a good opportunity to give it a go (it was free, lol) and I ended up being pleasantly surprised by this one.

The 'Super Shine Lipgloss - Icy Amethyst' lipgloss at rest:

Just look at that classy European packaging.

Now, please listen to my commentary while I lip swatchwhore.

It's a non-sticky gloss, feels (mostly) light on the lips, and most of all is moisturising, a property which is really important to be if you're coming into contact with my Sahara dry lips.

Can you pick up those teeny weeny blue shimmer particles?

The gloss is mostly sheer on my pigmented lips, but it imparts a a little irridecence and of course, the blue shimmer. Good for cooling down a warm lip tone.

Anyone else tried anything from the Rituals range?

Everyday I'm Crackling

2011-08-11T17:36:00.000+01:00

Out of MUA's Pro range, I was most excited about the crackles, but my (old) local Superdrug was dragging it's feet about getting them in. As soon as they did - nearly a month after launch, naturally - I quickly dashed in there and snapped up two colours - a silver named 'Shattered Ice' and a dark, indigo blue called 'Quiver'.

I was geniunely up for buying the whole range (minus the black, as I already own a black shatter) but yeah, lack of funds killed that idea dead. Ah well. The salmon one is MINE at some unspecified point in the future.

This is the silver shatter over Barry M's 'Raspberry'. I like the contrast - the light metallic silver against a dark background makes it pretty striking.

On my middle finger, I cocked it up a little - that was the one I painted first, and the coat I did was far too thin to effectively crackle properly. To achieve the effect I like, I do thick coats. The formula is runnier than other crackles that I've tried, which is good in the sense that it won't turn into thick, unusable tar after three weeks but does mean you have to put a little extra work in to get it to crackle evenly. Plus, the brush is thinner than normal (thinner than the normal MUA range, as well) so I do have to be quite precise with how I'm applying the product. I'm willing to put in the effort, though, as we haven't seen this wide a shade range in the UK.

'Quiver' really reminds me of a post I saw by ChaosButterfly on the Sally Hansen nail crackles - it's the same jelly-like, not quite opaque finish.

I'm planning on doing a proper post when I've collected more, but for now I just included some quick photos. This is 'Quiver' over Nails Inc's, 'Atomic'.

Tell me I'm not alone in coveting the salmon one?

I feel so grown up with my face cream in a jar.

2011-08-10T16:30:00.000+01:00

In the words of that Korean guy in Nicki Minaj's video...CHECK. IT. OUTTT!

I was cruising in Tescos. Having run out of my Vaseline Body face whatever cream a few days ago, I realised it was high time for another. And what would have been the point in not picking up this one? A jar was £4.04, but it was on offer for two jars for £4 (no, I don't understand it either). Anyway, I bought two jars.

I'm really, REALLY not keen on the smell - it smells a little like rancid baby powder (to me) and the scent hangs around for a while. Shame, because that's the only thing that ruined a really good product. I love the fact that this has an SPF in it because I can never be bothered with applying that seperately. It rubs in well and keeps my face hydrated all day (as promised) and best of all, IT COMES IN A JAR. WOO JARS.

The smell is gross though. Not sure if I'll repurchase it purely on that factor.

I'm in Miami, girl.

2011-08-09T17:19:00.000+01:00

OK, not really BUT HEAR ME OUT. THERE IS NAIL POLISH AND OTHER PRETTIES AT THE END. Although I am /currently/ in riot-stricken England, by the time you are reading this I will be in sunny Italia. No, don't be jealous because it's probably going to be rubbish. No internet access and it probably won't be like Rennaissance Italy like on Assassin's Creed. That is the only Italy worth visiting - as Ezio Auditore da Firenze, of course. (the guy cloaked in white on the front cover of the video game)

Anyway, before I went, I scheduled enough posts for this week (I'm off for a week, lol) so won't be responding to comments and emails :( I also photographed all the makeup and nail polish that I'm taking with me, and I thought I'd share the snaps with you...

While this looks excessive, it totally isn't. When you break it down into groups (all, of course, are completely essential)

Nail Bases and Colours

My base and top coat are pretty much out of the picture, but it's the usual Barry M base and NYC top coat that I feature regularly. For colours, we have Barry M 'Spring Green' - which I'm currently wearing on my fingers - Essie's 'Bermuda Shorts' (currently on my toes) Nails Inc's 'OMP!' and 'Yellow Peril' by BeautyUK. Having worn the neutral 'Mushroom' (by Barry M) for most of this week, and faced with the prospect of actual sun in Italy (about the only benefit, to be honest) I was longing for some colour, so packed four bright, summery shades.

'OMP!' is out of the picture because I was clever and forgot to photograph it.

Now, I like jazzing up my nail colour of choice regularly, so bought three easy ways to alter my manicure - a black crackle polish, Hello Kitty nail stickers from the Born Pretty Store and a glitter topcoat (Funky Fingers). Ample, no?

Finally, nail care (once again, 100% essential). Cuticle oil, nail files, a nail nourishing strengthening thing that I will talk about later on in the month (probably. If I remember) and a hoof stick. BOOM.

Enjoy more pretty pictures while I'm being miserable in the land that isn't anything like it's supposed to be (in Assassin's Creed)

Not so 'Barely There' - A True Colour Lipstick Post

2011-08-07T19:17:00.000+01:00

I'm sure regular readers know exactly how I feel about the revamped Sleek lipstick range (hint - if you don't, follow the link) but since my last lipstick post got such a good response (and I haven't even technically reviewed that one yet. Lol) I thought it was high time I properly sampled the new range for myself.

I'm sure you'll recognise 'Mystic' from my 'Prom Face' post - that's the colour I wore to my afterprom. Me, a lipstick virgin, wearing bright purple to afterprom...good times. The origin of 'Barely There' is a little more convoluted to explain...

I've been reading the lovely Shamini's blog for a while, and during my hunt for Sleek lippies on a slight discount, I read a post in which she'd won a Sleek competition and was happy to send the two colours she wasn't keen on to blog readers. But I misunderstood (typical) and was like, 'Blog sale? How much do you want for them?' She then explained in terms my simple mind could understand, and I was happy to pay postage but then she refused, posted it, and skipped the country (on holiday, lol. But still) This lovely woman paid postage for the lipstick all the way from Norway <3 an act that firmly placed her on my 'Things I love about Norway' list which was started in 2009 and currently consists of:
Alexander Rybak (ETERNAL crush on that man...stole my heart at Eurovision 2009)
Shamini

Subsequent amazing hosting of Eurovision 2010
Being so much classier when it comes to pretty much everything

General Awesome
One of my Uncles lives there and his wife is Norwegian and she's really pretty and nice.

I digress. Back to the lipstick, lol. When I requested it, I didn't actually realise how light it was! Perhaps I was mentally still thinking of the old Sleek Lipstick range, in which I could have worn pretty much ANY shade and have it fit my skin tone. I like that this range has plenty of nudes and 'my lips but better' shades for those with lighter skin (which, I'll be fair here, the old range lacked that) but really dislike the fact that it has NONE for those that aren't, well, Caucasian.

The range only needed a little tweaking to be inclusive rather than exclusive which is what they've done - they've moved from what is essentially one extreme to the other, alienating those that propped them up for so many years (namely the Afro Hair and Beauty shops who have stocked Sleek since forever.) Would it have killed Sleek to leave the two brown shades in, while adding all the new ones? I still sound really angry about this. Read the post, it's kind of a masterpiece. *modest*

Even though a Sleek rep assured me that they'd be coming out with two brown ones later in the year, so far I've seen zilch and it really seems to me like it was just said to appease the angry blogger (me).

'Barely There' is part of their 'Sheen' finish range, which when these came out a few months ago, bloggers left right and centre (a suspicious amount of whom seemed to get the product free to review) were saying were really moisturising. I was hoping that they would be, because my lips really need the moisture...sadly, it wasn't to be. You'd think that I was applying a matte lipstick by how it looked on and how not-moisturising it was. Which was a bit of a bummer, as I personally didn't find the sheen lipsticks from their old range drying at all.

My lips weren't in the greatest condition when I applied it but I really needed to take it off, condition, exfoliate and reapply just as I would for a matte lipstick when I was taking these shots. Wasn't impressed.
Oh, no need to say that the colour is hideous on me. I dare the great Nicki Minaj to try and pull a lip colour THIS light off. Nope. Not possible.
It turns peach on me? Don't quite understand it, lol - it looks pink on everyone else and in the tube.

Luckily, I found a way (quite by accident) to make this work.

The photos are a bit crap, but work with me here.
By applying a layer of Miner's Lip Tint (cherry) beforehand (I really needed the moisture), the colour was altered into a far more flattering rose pink that is slightly darker than what you're seeing in the photo now.

I actually quite like it and wore it like this to drop off my application for a job as a lifeguard.

Anyone else tried this particular lipstick?

Nail Blog Round Up

2011-08-06T15:55:00.001+01:00

Sarah stamped a pretty red and white design with her Fauxnad plates and using Beauty UK coral for the base http://spellbindingnails.blogspot.com/2011/08/sdp-d12-red-and-white-floral-design.html

Stacie was inspired by a Tatty Devine bunny brooch http://kawaiinailart.blogspot.com/2011/08/bunny-nails.html

Claire created a paint splatter manicure with her Konad plates using OPI red as the base http://toptwentynails.blogspot.com/2011/08/opi-red-and-konad-splatter-step-by-step.html

Theresa dipped her clients toes in crystals with this extravagant pedicure http://theresabloor.blogspot.com/2011/07/swarovskidiamonte-crystal-toes-pedicure.html

Grace created a cool tuxedo manicure http://ooooohpretty.blogspot.com/2011/08/tuxedo-nails.html

Trisha showed us what she got when she broke her 3 month no buy http://www.trishadotj.com/2011/07/i-broke-down.html

Emily brought back the 80s with her pacman manicure http://emilysnailfiles.blogspot.com/2011/08/pacman-french-manicure.html

Jen shared her Brittany Femme Fatale manicure http://moondancerjen.blogspot.com/2011/08/femme-fatale-tour-nails.html

Lena showed her Nails Inc polish free with 2 dove deodorants http://thestudentsguidetonailpolish.blogspot.com/2011/08/nails-inc-copacabana.html

If you would like to be involved in future round ups email Stacie.fields@gmail.com

NPLQ Face (or makeup to wear when submerged in water for 9 1/2 hours)

2011-08-05T19:42:00.000+01:00

The NPLQ is the qualification you need to lifeguard in a pool in the UK, and it's a week long course that I've just completed. Basically, they teach you how to save someone in the water, CPR, First Aid and all the sorts of things you'd need to know to do your job effectively. And we were in the water for hourssss each day (OK, perhaps not 9 and a 1/2. But a LONG TIME.) Naturally, I couldn't NOT wear makeup where other people were around...but I had to improvise.

Behold:

We have an Active Cosmetics Eye/Lip palette, a Barry M 3 in 1 (supposedly) Nail Strenghthener, Base Coat and Top Coat, an MUA nail polish in 'Shade 9', a NYC top coat, an Urban Decay 'Zero' eyeliner and an MUA Pro twist up eyeliner. Apologies for the somewhat natural background, as we've moved house I'm yet to find another suitably brightly lit, flat white surface to photograph products on. Until I construct a light box (or miraculously locate such a surface) photos will be taken outside...

The soft texture of the MUA pencil makes it easy to blend, which is why I use it primarily for filling in my eyebrows. It's not the blackest black, which means that I can overapply a little and I don't look scary/angry. It's slightly oily texture means that it holds up decently in the water, as long as it's not rubbed, and I was too busy desperately trying to follow instructions and swim while dragging big heavy teenage boys to the other side of the pool to start fiddling with my eyebrows, yo. The two lines underneath are the MUA pencil. The big 'UD' is the Urban Decay one...sensible to wear a waterproof pencil in the water, no?

I was planning to have painted nails all week, but these were my hands by the end of the first day - not great! I remember the teacher trying to teach us how to do a spinal board (google, because it's too long to explain here) and we had to support the casualty with our palms facing down. I was staring at my hideously chipped nails as opposed to worrying about the 'casualty' with a potential spinal injury...

At first, I suspected it was merely the brand (even though I'd had no problems with chippping using MUA polishes in the past) so I then painted them with a Barry M polish the next day (same thing) and finally a Nails Inc one (not even a freebie, a genuine, £11 bottle of Nails Inc polish) and the exact same thing happen. Clearly, no brand is immune to prolonged immersion in the toxic soup of chlorine, baby vomit and piss that constitutes poolwater.

Please excuse my photographing of hideously used and abused makeup (I guess that vouches for it's effectiveness? Lol...) but we've misplaced the baby wipes in the move so it's not even like I could clear this up. Regardless, I used one of the lip colours as a blush and a lip tint in the pool, because it's waxy texture meant that it's somewhat water resistant.

A tiny dab like that, mixed with a little moisturiser on the palm of the hand, then BLEND BLEND BLEND like it's the UN truck out of a war zone once applied to the cheek. Then you're good to go. Apply to the lips as normal, though I think I stopped bothering with lip colour after the second day.

I never had it quite that bright, though...

This cloud is a seven.

It was actually rather pleasant taking photos and blogging outside. Might become a regular thing!

The mini trampoline which I was lazing around on while taking photographs.

New garden!

I stumbled upon some rare, highly sought after blue grass. It doesn't look at all like it's been painted with MUA's Shade 9...

Nails Inc 'Copacabana'

2011-08-03T16:03:00.000+01:00

Feast your eyes on this corally goodness.

For me, this is my perfect summer coral. It's bright, clearly coral (doesn't lean red or pink or orange in particular) and applies nicely enough that I don't have to struggle every time I apply.

Two non streaky, opaque and even coats and this was good to go. Drying time was slightly quicker than average, even without my usual quick drying top coat. For a freebie, this was pretty darn good (the now ended buy-two-Dove-deodorants-get-a-nail-polish offer in Boots)

*snuggles bottle*
I liked this one so much I actually bought a backup bottle so I won't run out. That's something I NEVER do with my beauty purchases, so yeah. This one is a keeper.

Nail Blog Round Up

2011-07-24T16:49:00.000+01:00

Sarah stamped this sparkly tiger design http://spellbindingnails.blogspot.com/2011/07/bm207-sparkly-tiger.html

Claire used craft glitter and shellac to make a gorgeous pedicure http://toptwentynails.blogspot.com/2011/07/rockstar-glitter-toes-using-shellac.html

Ladyluck swatched a rare polish with cute holographic stars and moons in it http://ladyluckbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/07/i-give-you-moon-and-stars.html

Lena shared BeautyUK Glam nails in Yellow peril http://thestudentsguidetonailpolish.blogspot.com/2011/07/beautyuk-yellow-peril-nail-polish.html

Stacie create an illustration inspired cupcake manicure http://kawaiinailart.blogspot.com/2011/07/cupcake-nail-art-illustration-style.html

Sharon swatched the amazing Glitter Gal black holographic http://polishinfatuated.blogspot.com/2011/07/glitter-gal-black-holographic.html

Grace shows us how to do it like a pro! http://ooooohpretty.blogspot.com/2011/07/do-it-like-pro.html

Jen has had a cute fruit themed week http://moondancerjen.blogspot.com/2011/07/summer-fruit-week-day-2-citrus-fimo.html

Emily created a WAH nails inspired look http://emilysnailfiles.blogspot.com/2011/07/wah-nails-aztec-design-and-little-bit.html (welcome back em! XD)

Chell swatched up Butter London in Victoriana - Yum! http://polishwonderland-byshella.blogspot.com/2011/07/butter-london-victoriana.html

BeautyUK 'Yellow Peril' Nail Polish

2011-07-20T21:39:00.000+01:00

I was actually going to wear this to my afterprom, but time constraints (I spent too long watching Question Time and therefore had no time left over to repaint my nails) meant that I didn't use it then. I applied it the day afterwards expecting a nightmare (application wise) but I was actually pleasantly surprised!

First, I went for this because I was looking for a good, cheap nail polish and since I'd had a good experience with 'Slate' by BeautyUK, I hoped the rest of the line would be up to scratch. I'd call it a true, neutral yellow. I have no idea why it's more eyecatching than the other yellow offerings different brands had to offer :/ Something about it that I can't put my finger on...maybe the fact that it has a *touch* more green in it?

Yeah, my nails look fabulous here. But they're fake. I wish my real nails looked this good.

Application wasn't that bad, surprisingly - the formula didn't feel thick or chalky (and believe me, just from looking at the bottle I was convinced that it'd be chalkier than a cliff in Dover) and it was fine in two coats, both the opacity and the levelness (not a word?) of the polish. Impressed!
I wore Yellow Peril again, on my (disgusting) natural nails, and it lasted with minimal chips for three days which is pretty damn decent considering the state of my nails at the moment. Peel City. Yuck.

I've noticed that they've raised the price of these recently - this cost me £1.99, as opposed to £1.79 last year. An increase of 20p isn't too excessive, though, so I'm not crying over it.

The #bbloggers hash tag and why I am so fucking sick of this.

2011-07-19T22:03:00.001+01:00

#rant
#profanity

This is soooo long overdue but I've been holding off on posting it in the hope that things may get better. Which they haven't. Last Sunday's chat had me hysterically clicking the 'block profile' button in the hope that all this spam would just go away from my timeline. I barely remembered to do this:

I know that's not even correct grammar in the context of my sentence but I was that angry. That extra 'e' can go to hell.

~~I DON'T EVEN LIKE THIS SONG THE BOYBAND ARE SO DUMB AND THE DANCE IS RETARDED~~

OK. This has been going on since probably the second or third #bbloggers chat. I'm not going to printscreen any individual specifically but I'm so sick of how bang on nine o clock there is an influx of 'wow great chat here's my blog link hiimwastingbandwith@blogger.com'

FUCK OFF. GOD.

It is so incredibly rude just to sit there and be like 'Well, that was great. I'm going to shamelessly self promote myself at everyone else's expense now! *flips middle finger at other beauty bloggers*' especially as many of the main offenders don't even seem to take part in the actual discussion! Recently, there's even been a lot of 'Ah, I missed the chat! Oh well, here's my blog link.'
I know lots of people seem to think that it's 'alright' because there are so many fools doing it that it looks like the norm, but just because lots of people do it does not make it 'alright'. By whatever arbirtary concept 'alright' is. I'm defining it. Don't like it? I can recommend you some (good) K-pop. Nothing by the boyband you see above.

Just because the chat is officially over, doesn't mean people are done talking - the chat often continues for an hour or even two after the official end. #bbloggers encompasses people of many different time zones who may find it easier to join in the chat a little later than the majority and also want to talk to other #bbloggers. Is it really too much to ask to leave the link spamming out, so they too can enjoy a conversation? Same as for those who've been busy during the chat and wish to catch up. On the last chat before Fee gave up leadership of #bbloggers, I was away doing something which I can't even remember so it can't have been that good. The next morning, having been informed it was a SERIOUSLY juicy discussion, I went back to try and read it. After three pages of 'READ MY BLOG PLZ' Twitter kindly informed me that it couldn't go back any further. So I obtained absolutely no information about the chat whatsoever and had to get friends to recap it for me. And this was just the day afterwards, before the spam really had a chance to accumulate. Incredible.

If you're one of the tweeple that spams DURING the chat, I hope you tweet yourself to death. I don't think I even need to get started on the foolishness that goes into thinking that is going to get you any followers. Or friends.

'Companies' (though truly, half of these barely deserve the term) can get lost as well. I'm all for cosmetic companies taking part in the chat, giving meaningful and interesting feedback, and generally getting stuck in - in fact, I love that. Brands like MUA Cosmetics and The Teacup Agency are present week after week and forge connections with bloggers while not blatantly advertising all over the hash tag. Then you get brands like (pictured) who clearly aren't interested in connecting with bloggers during the actual chat, rather using them for free content and promotion (see below).

Why the hell did anyone think this was a good marketing strategy? It cheapens your brand and makes you look desperate. Leave #bbloggers be...if you're looking for people to try out your product, go the old fashioned route and contact bloggers that you enjoy reading to try it out. That was at you, Youngblood. :) Next time you fancy creating rivalry and tension between bloggers, leave the innocent hashtag out of it. Ta.
I hope people think more of their blogs than to go for this sort of thing. Companies rock up and decide that the 'best beauty bloggers' are the ones who should feature them. OK...
The attitude that bloggers jump when companies say 'how high' and that we're automatically inferior, somehow, really pees me off. If you're a company moving into a different market or you're a new company trying to establish yourselves, don't expect bloggers to be all over you, just as new bloggers don't expect to be showered with free samples.

I thought the whole point of #bbloggers was to show us as a blogging community. So many people love and enjoy beauty blogging because of the sheer amount of interaction that we all have with each other, and the fact that we can all connect because we're doing something we love. #bbloggers has grown into a networking tool that allows the beauty community, established or brand new, to all talk with each other as the equals we are - so why are some people showing such basic disrespect towards a community that's so welcoming? If posting your URL in a comment on someone else's blog is widely frowned upon, why isn't this practice? On #bbloggers, as long as you have your blog linked in your Twitter profile, it is incredibly easy to find new (to you) bloggers and read their blogs without cluttering up the chat for everyone else with, "omg, need some bedtime reading material - send me your blogs! My blog is apieceofshit.com". If someone makes an interesting point during the chat or calms down some tension or even has an awesome screen name - investigate them! Look at their profile, look at their blog. I was under the impression that this was common knowledge but apparantly not.

It's similar to the 'sub for sub' thing going on over at YouTube. You suscribe to me, and I'll suscribe to you. Did we suscribe to each other because we like each other's content? No. Are we even interested in the other person's blog/channel? No. We did it just to boost the numbers. It's hollow and fake and when you see #bbloggers littered with 'Hi, I saw your blog on #bbloggers and I really like it! Here's mine.' then you can't help but feel it's going the same way. Which is a real shame.

Wow, that was an angry post. Have some hot Korean men for your time.

Source: fuckyeahleejoon.tumblr

Slightly Redundant Haulage

2011-07-17T18:34:00.000+01:00

I say slightly redundant because I've pretty much not hauled anything this month. Between Duke of Edingburgh, family members coming to stay, and that huge boner kill of not having any funds, it's been a spend free month :( Apart from prom shopping. That was essential. ~~and expensive~~.

Regardless, here is like a collection of stuff that I've cumulatively hauled from ~~2001~~ last month. Feels like forever :(

Nails Inc/Fabulous polishes: I collected the tokens, so now I have a spare set which I was going to give away until I got back from D of E and then everyone hated the News of The World so I thought it might be best to leave that...alone for a bit.
Two Miners polishes which I should add to the blogsale, not really that enamoured with these.
Last month's Glamour offer. I picked up Benetint and High Beam.

Two Barry M crackle polishes, the pink one and the black one - these are sooo cool and were my first foray into the dark crackle underworld...does anyone want a full review on these? I'm under the impression almost everyone has already done one.
Everyday Minerals rollerball eyeshadow! It scares me how easily I fall for a gimmick...
I bought Pears soap on the basis of a review I saw by Fee on how non-drying and gentle it was on sensitive skin, which really excited me. But when I got home and talked to her on twitter about it (@MakeupSavvy) I realised she'd actually done a follow up post to say they'd changed the formula and it was now quite harsh! #learntoresearchlena
I cut it up into little cubes and we're using it for hand soap at the moment. At least it was (relatively) cheap.

Lastly, my new nail polish love: 'Copacabana' by Nails Inc. It's this gorgeous coral colour which everyone and their pet of choice needs in their life this summer...bright but not off putting and applies really well. I had to buy two Dove deodorants in Boots for this offer, which wasn't too bad as I usually use Dove anyway. I then went back for two more so I could get another bottle...obssessed much? The other colour, 'Havana', was really boring and looked sheer so I left it alone. They should have named it 'Sand' or something. If I think 'Havana', I think something vibrant and colourful, not yet another greige nude tea colour. grumble, grumble.

MUA Extreme Metallic Eye Quads

2011-07-12T16:47:00.002+01:00

OK, these are amazing.

I have four out of the six in the range here for you today...'Show Stopper' 'Glammed Up' 'Starstruck' and 'Smokin'.

'Starstruck' and 'Show Stopper'

'Glammed Up' and 'Smokin'

'Show Stopper' reminds me of a sort of beach theme - a yellow gold, warm brown-pink with a copper hint, silvery seafoam blue and a a dark, ocean blue just scream, 'Beach!' at me. Very summery. As the name suggests, these are all highly shimmery with a metallic finish. Fans of MUA's £1 core line eyeshadows will find the same texture in these as in the regular line - highly pigmented and creamy to apply, these won't disappoint.

'Starstruck' is rather versatile in my opinion - the rose gold shade can be used as a shimmery blush (I've tried this applied to the cheeks with a finger and then attacked with a blush brush, and it blends out rather nicely) and the neutral caramel makes a nice body/tear duct highlight for me. The dark brown at the end would look good as a crease shade on those with lighter skin, but I've worn this all over the lid and it's great for daytime where I don't want to scare everyone with bright pink eyelids. I don't know why the pink and the caramel shade have appeared so light in my photo, as in real life they are darker. *shrug*

'Glammed Up' is the only quad I've got here that contains glitter rather than shimmer, which is why I wouldn't use the pink as a blush, but they'd make cute eye highlight colours. The first shade is more peach than the yellow gold of the 'Starstruck' quad but they're still close in that you wouldn't need both. Out of all of the quads, this is the one I'll be reaching for least simply because the only colour I'd regularly wear would be the last one. It's this gorgeous gunmetal with silver sparkles. I'm imagining the looks I'm going to create with it already...that's another thing I was meaning to ask. More EOTD's, yes/no? My technique is pretty poor and I can't photograph my eyes for toffee...anyone got any tips?

Lastly 'Smokin' is basically your portable smoky eye. Highlight, crease shade and lid shade all in one. MUA's famous matte black is included in this, but the standout shade for me is the third one along from the left. It's a silver with a hint of blue...reminds me of one of the shades in the ever famous Sleek 'Graphite' palette. If MUA did this one in gold, I'd buy it too and then make the two have sultry metallic babies. If I had one gripe, it'd be that the names are a tad cheesy...next time, get us beauty bloggers to name them :P I still demand my 'Arctic' themed palette.

When I first saw these, I thought 'Bobbi Brown Shimmer Bricks' instantly, but these are clearly meant to be used as eyeshadows rather than...whatever the Shimmer Bricks are for (I've never been clear on the purpose of those, aside from looking pretty). I wondered how the brush would be able to get in between each shade (as they're not clearly divided) but there's ample space for even a large brush, so that's not a concern. The new sturdy packaging means I can comfortably chuck this into my bag and not worry about it exploding all over my mobile phone...all in all, these are pretty decent. Ten out of ten for MUA.

Prom Face.

2011-07-11T13:14:00.001+01:00

I mislead somewhat. It was actually an 'after prom' face as I didn't go to prom. Sat at home and watched Question Time instead - far more enjoyable, to be honest.

Political statement made, I set about doing my makeup. First, I started with a layer of MUA's Primer, then moved on to 17's Photo Ready (or Photo Finish, something along those lines. Can't really remember) foundation in 'Honey'. BIIIIIG mistake. It seemed to be far too yellow and I was blending it in and getting more and more panicked until finally I was like, 'Nooo!' and removed it all and started again.

Take two.

MUA's primer, and then a light dusting of Max Factor's mineral foundation in 'Bronze'. I dotted a few spots of Sleek's Hide it Concealer (Shade 4, but I'm going to go back and buy Shade 3 as Shade 4 is too dark, I think. It matches my skin? Aren't concealers meant to be lighter?) and then a little more powder. Contoured with Sleek's Contour Kit in 'Dark' and added a little highlight on my legs with MUA's Mosaic Bronzer (it got completely broken and smashed up when it was sent to me :( But I could still sort of use it.) Primed my eyelids with Urban Decay Primer Potion in Eden, then put my contact lenses in (I always do it that way around).

Used the darkest dark brown from the Sleek Paraguaya Palette (though the lighting and perhaps brush contamination has made it appear slightly purple in the photos, fml) all over the lid, added a matte brow highlight, filled in brows with a matte black from a Sleek palette (can't remember which one but for the most part, they're all the same?). From here, I took the shimmery dark brown from the MUA Extreme Metallic quad in 'Starstruck' and added it over the lid below the crease. I then used the dark black from the MUA Extreme Metallic quad in 'Smokin' to add definition to the outer third. Blended it all together to make it look less harsh, applied eyeliner on the lower lid but not the top, and finished with a pair of Eye Candy false lashes. Wouldn't recommend these, they began to come off at the end of the night -.- something that I've never experienced with my cheapy KKCenterHK lashes. I wasn't impressed.

Now, as a lipstick newbie, I did the sensible thing and bought the brightest fuschia I could see, which happened to be a Sleek True Colour lipstick in 'Mystic' (matte). It didn't bleed even though I wasn't wearing lip liner, and stayed on somewhat even through numerous bottles of beer so kudos to it, I guess...

Finally, prom nails for your eyes only:

It's been four days and they're still on my hands...impressive staying power. I would have gone for my usual Allura ones but when I popped into Poundland (on the DAY of my prom. Yes, I am organised...) they didn't have any! Rage...these were adequate substitutes, however. I'm not looking forward to removing them, though...

MUA 'Pretty Pastels' Palette Review and EOTD

2011-07-08T17:18:00.000+01:00

I was totally pscyhed when I saw these MUA palettes and was lucky to recieve two to review. The first one I'm going to show you is called 'Pretty Pastels'. I find it's a really sort of 'spring' feeling
palette for me - pretty much every spring time is all about pastel colours. I don't mind wearing pastels on the nails, but it's a bit of a new concept for my face...plus I don't really wear pastel shades as they usually just fade to white on me. I was hoping that these'd be different but...nope, sadly. Although I do quite like the light brown colour as a sort of brow highlight.

BEHOLD. MY EYE. MULTIPLE TIMES.

Wahey, it's like I'm staring at you a billion times. Feel free to be creeped out.

Unfortunately, doing this EOTD was a bit of a pain in the arse, in all honesty. I think the amount of kaolin clay used in them made them chalky and hard to work with, and even worse wet (in large quantitites. They were good using a small amount as eyeliner). I'd apply some of the pink shade, go back to do the blue and find a lot of the pink had run out. Reapply and it all fell out over the blue shade. This took way longer than it should have.

These all contain a little shimmer/micro glitter in them, which I found made them a bit tricky to remove as the glitter clung for dear life around my skin, even when swatching. Where I think I'll be using these is as liner for a pretty pastel (ignore the pun. I genuinely didn't plan it. Promise) pop of colour for looks and stuff. Wet a brush, dip into the colour and line away. Who knows, maybe next spring I'll be rocking these as liners...probably not as actual eyeshadows, however.

Anyone picked up this particular palette?

Nails Inc 'OMP!' (Oh My Pink)

2011-07-01T23:01:00.000+01:00

I found this shade in particular applied sooo nicely. Two coats, no bubbles, like a sort of wham bam thank you mam but in a more desireable context. I approve.

I couldn't decide which pictures to add and which to leave out (I'm exprimenting with a new nail polish swatching technique, which is photographing them outside my window, lol) so this is a rather pic heavy post.

These dry down to a semi-satin, but still with some shine to it - again, typical of a neon finish but not quite. They're just bright enough to be bang on trend for summer, but not too bright as to alienate less daring nail polish wearers. The swatches that you're seeing have had a layer of topcoat applied to it though, as I wanted to see it shiny!

As you can see, my Mum and I are collecting our tokens...are you? The value of these polishes is pretty damn intense, if you're in the UK I'd be surprised if you missed out!

Nails Inc 'Atomic'

2011-06-29T18:17:00.001+01:00

An unabashedly bright, bordering-on-neon-but-not-quite radioactive ('scuse the pun - Atomic - Radioactive. Lol. OK, that's probably only funny to me) orange.

Pretty damn pigmented when it goes on, but not thick - one coat would have sufficed but I always do two anyway to ensure longlevity - speaking of which, this polish held up well on my currently thin and bendy nails. I had three days with no chips or tipwear, minimal tipwear on the fourth day and a couple of chips on my index nails (always those ones. ALWAYS. It'd be great if humans had two ring fingers instead of an index finger and a ring finger) and on the fifth day I had to remove it as I'd spent the night with my hands immersed in water and it was like wearing a crackle polish without the crackle polish. Looked like someone had Chernobylded my nails...You don't want to know.

Only one more week to go if you started collecting the Fabulous mag tokens from the beginning! It's pretty intense value when you think about it (£3 and a bit of patience for £22 worth of stuff!) so I'm pretty pleased with that.

EDIT: Forgot to explain the colour difference in the two photos...d'oh! First one is under natural light, the second is in direct sunlight - you can see how much darker and more intense it looks. Begins to border on a sort of salmony-coral combination...me gusta.

MUA Pro 3 in 1 Extreme Eye Contour Pen

2011-06-22T20:42:00.000+01:00

Oh, I am pleased with this little pen. It was included in my little bag of MUA Pro goodies to review, fyi :)

For the small sum of £1.50, you get this sleek pen in cardboard packaging (as seen above) with instructions on the back as to how you form the three types of line.

The black plastic is so smooth. I thought it was a liquid liner at first because of the packaging, but I was delighted to know that it's a retractable pencil (I prefer pencil to other types of liner and use it most often).

I rolled this up about a third of the way. There's a decent amount of product concealed in the thin tube.

Now, onto the formula.

First off, the stick seems to be more oil/wax based, as it's surprisingly water resistant, and very very soft. It's a veritable dream to apply, no tugging etc. Longlevity is only an issue if there's no primer involved, and even then only on oily eyelids or if you keep touching your eyes. I don't know why you'd do that. I guess someone does :/ So to recap, it doesn't seem to dry down particularly well, so for those with oily lids you'd have to use a primer to ensure that it didn't run.

So easyyyy to smudge. With just this and a coat of mascara, you can create a two minute smokey eye that requires little or no effort to do.

So soft, I accidentally broke it by being overzealous, lol.

Fail! Not the product, though. I'll be repurchasing this - it's great for students on a budget who want a very black pencil that's soft and easy to apply.

I don't get all the Nails Inc hate, bro.

2011-06-19T14:39:00.000+01:00

OK, so as we all must be aware by now, you can currently pick up a bottle of Nails Inc polish with a purchase of Coke, "chocolate" (quote marks because Cadburys is foul and can be barely considered such) Malibu, Dove deoderant, Fabulous magazines, ~~shares in Waitrose, a fake greencard and any two Romanian orphans~~. Nails Inc are currently everywhere in one of the more agressive marketing strategies that the beauty blogging world has seen. And I love it.

I scroll down my Twitter timeline and see one or two beauty bloggers turned economists debating how on earth Nails Inc can possibly be making any money whatsoever. Well, er...isn't it obvious? Agressive promotion (in which case is giving the polish away with like, oxygen) = more people knowing about and being familiar with the brand. Which translates into increased sales. I actually saw one blogger write a post on the topic and then say, 'I don't even consider Nails Inc high end any more'. Sorry, it's not what you consider a brand that makes it so. If I regard Burberry as low end that suddenly doesn't mean that I won't have to save up my pocket money for a year to buy half a lipstick. Likewise, saying that E.L.F is high end doesn't change the fact that you can get eyeshadow quads for like a quid. Not really sure where she was trying to go with that.

I do think that we in the beauty blogging world do forget sometimes that not everyone can name all the shades of the latest OPI collection or recite a list of MAC shadows from memory. To the average Joanna, who hasn't been exposed to all of the freebies and doesn't really pay attention to what's hot, new shades and trends, who hasn't been over saturated with the news of endless offers and freebies, it's just a chance to pick up a nail polish with a deoderant that they already buy. Or a Coke they were having for lunch anyway. Or the paper they already bought on Sundays. From that, they've been exposed to a brand that may have been new to them and Nails Inc have just earned themselves a new customer. Or not, whatever.

This isn't a rant as such as I'm not personally invested in Nails Inc, but I'm just more confused at why people are so opposed to them promoting their product. Is it the oversaturation thing? (i.e people seeing it everywhere, and then getting sick of it) or are people pissed because they used Nails Inc before they became easily accessible to the masses and now don't feel exclusive any more? I personally don't understand this one, I too used Nails Inc before I could buy a farm animal and get a free Nails Inc polish in 'Milkmaid' (sheer sky blue jelly with large pieces of hexagonal black glitter) and I'm not annoyed. Maybe it's just me. Someone care to explain?

In other news, can I send things like Posietint/Benetint overseas? Because they look like nail polish (but aren't) but if the big burly men at USPS who dislike nail polish immensly pick up on it, I don't want to be slapped with an $800 fine for a swap or a giveaway. Any help would be appreciated!

WARNING: This is a Feet Post

2011-06-18T21:29:00.000+01:00

Summer nail trends for feet! Now, I went to all the trouble of creating a special graphic so ya'll don't have to see the feet and can casually scroll along your dashboard for the next non-feet related post. Not my fault if you enter and mentally scar yourself!

So I wanted to swatch my chosen colours for my Summer Nail Trends post on my feet. I wouldn't wear ALL of these as pedicure colours, but a fair few have a shot. Behold:

In different light:

Big Toe: Nails Inc 'Milan'
Second Toe: Barry M 'Cyan Blue'
Middle Toe: Essie 'Bermuda Shorts'
Fourth Toe: ASOS Paints 'Lily'
Little Toe: ASOS Paints 'Olivia'

I've already worn 'Milan' as a pedicure and I have worn 'Cyan Blue' but didn't really rate it, so for this summer, I think I'll pass. I liked 'Bermuda Shorts' and 'Olivia' as well.

And this post lacks a snappy ending. Sorry. *wanders off for coffee*

Half Yearly Empties

2011-06-18T18:19:00.001+01:00

It's been THAT long since I've done an empties post...pretty incredible. Continue reading (if you wish) for a mildly pointless selection of products that I have used up.

From left to right:

Elizabeth Arden Natural Volume Mascara - er, hated this by the end. It burns like a mofo and I didn't really like the brush? So I was pretty happy when this spontaneously dried up and died.

Wilkinson's Four Way Nail Buffer - this I love, and have already repurchased. It's a cracking little file for 89p and lasted quite a long time before the sides went smooth. I'd recommend it to anyone that was looking for a cheap buffer.

Superdrug Acetone Free Nail Polish Remover - This was alright, not the best but not the worst. It's decent for the price, which was less than £1.50 if I remember correctly.

Boots Natural Collection Vanilla Body Spray - I liked the smell of this a lot, but it only stuck around for about fifteen minutes before you needed to spray again, which is a bit of a shame. I've since moved on to Ted Baker's body spray for my cheap fragrance needs but I did like this one. You got a really large quantity for the price, as well - 250ml for £2. I guess that's necessary for all the times you'll need to reapply it!

NYC 'In a New York Minute' Quick Drying Nail Polish 'Grand Central Station' - This is such a lifesaver. It dries SO quickly and is gloriously glossy, and all for £1.79. Incredible. One gripe I have about this is that it does do the 'go disgustingly think and gloopy like the snot of that troll that Harry Potter stuck his wand up the nose of in the Philosopher's Stone' thing halfway through the bottle, but I have some Seche Thinner so I can rectify that for the most part. I usually abandon ship about three quarters of the way down the bottle as it's just too thick and bubbly to use, really. But yeah, great product and I've already repurchased.

Not pictured is some random ass Allura nail glue, the fumes from which made my eyes burn but it did the job required i.e keeping fimo shapes on my thumb. Eh.

Barry M Giveaway Still Open, I'm a numbnuts

2011-06-18T00:09:00.002+01:00

WTF? I thought I made it end on the 14th of June, but it actually goes on until the 20th...I'm a fail. Sorry!

Nail Blog Round Up

2011-06-17T14:00:00.002+01:00

Grace was inspired by Cosmo to create this cute summer manicure
Ladyluck had fun with her French manicure
Sharon created a holographic leopard design
The Nail Addict tested and reviewed P2 crackle
Stacie freestyled with black, blue and holographic polishes
Claire was inspired by her Swatch watch
Sarah stamped a stylized pastel peacock design
Lena watched the trends for summer
Pink Wednesday was rosey for Jen
Ari entered a competition
That’s so fresh stamped on China Glaze yellow polka dot bikini
Lingling announced the winners of her contest

Barry M Giveaway CLOSED.

2011-06-17T13:15:00.000+01:00

Thank you for all of your entries! I'll do the usual duplication (or triplication, as the case may be. If that's even a word.) of extra entries and then have a winner picked by Sunday, hopefully.

I noticed that somehow, I've managed to pass the 400 follower milestone...luckily, I have a pretty decent idea for a giveaway to celebrate that, too! So stay tuned :P

Summer 2011 Nail Trends

2011-06-16T19:16:00.002+01:00

I'm kinda notorious for being a not very trendy person. I:

still don't own a matte top coat
don't like Adele's music
have only recently decided to expand my pastels collection
don't own a pair of Uggs, real or otherwise. (and don't plan to, because they're fugly)
only bought my first crackle polish a couple of weeks ago.don't own any lipsticks in bullets that aren't brown.
etc.

But seeing as this is going to be a long and hopefully fruitful summer, I thought I'd have a go especially as it's summer, and the trend this year (isn't it the same every year? idk) is for bright, colourful nails. Here are my personail picks for this summer, style shamelessly borrowed from the lovely 25fLONDON:

Thumb: Nails Inc for Diet Coke (one of their ever frequent collaborations <3 helps us poor students afford their polish which is great because I'm sure many of you are aware that I'm a diehard fan) 'Milan'
Index Finger: Barry M 'Cyan Blue'
Middle Finger: Essie 'Bermuda Shorts'
Ring Finger: ASOS Paints 'Lily'
Little Finger: ASOS Paints 'Olivia'

'Milan' is a bright, true red, which is a staple pedicure shade in the summer. Pity that there are least photos of it, because it was really hard to get my whole hand in the shot with the glass, lol.
'Cyan Blue' is bordering on neon, but it's still an unconventional shade to nail muggles and pretty appropriate for the summer, in my opinion.
I love love LOVE 'Bermuda Shorts', as I'm sure you've already heard judging by my review on it, but this is a very bright fuschia-pink and again, a great pedicure shade.
'Lily' is a twist on the mint green love in that's been going on for far too long now. It appears darker in the some of the photos because of the (lack of) lighting (it was like two in the morning) but it's a neon, turquoise-teal colour. Pretty unique!
'Olivia' is the orange on my little finger, it's quite bright but not actually neon or anything. It's more understated and would be interesting as an accent colour in a mani of Barry M's Cyan Blue, or something.

Fabulous Magazine (comes inside the News Of The World on a Sunday) are offering two free Nails Inc polishes when you collect three tokens and take them to a participating Tesco store. I have some information from the press release here:

This summer Fabulous are keeping Britain’s nails sizzling by giving away two free Nails Inc. polishes worth an incredible £22. Created especially for Fabulous, the shades – called Atomic and OMP! (that’s Oh My Pink!) – are sure to be this season’s hottest shades!
To bag the two free nail varnishes, readers need to cut out and collect three of the tokens printed over the next four weeks in Fabulous, starting this Sunday (19^th June). They then need to take these to participating Tesco stores from 3^rd July to redeem. Plus, they can treat themselves to a half-price manicure for £14 (usually £28) at any participating Nails Inc salon.

This summer is proving increasingly tempting. My bank account is in a perpetual state of emptiness because of the great magazine freebies (Fabulous as well as Glamour/Benetint and Harpers Bazaar/Leighton Denny) and the new collections (MUA, BeautyUK, Sleek with the Mediterean/Carribean/Oh So Special) so yeah, trying to get Bill Gates to adopt me right now.

What Nails Inc promo polishes have you picked up, if any? I went STRAIGHT to Boots and bought two Dove polishes on the day that the promotion started. Coincidentally, I'd just finished my Dove roll on that morning...no foul play involved. Anyway, in the morning, my Mum and I went for a walk and then drove into town to the rather large Boots. Went to the deoderant section, and the special stand was displayed, replete with poster, but...no polishes. Wtf. So we (and another older lady who just happened to be standing with us) complained, and then at first the woman said she had some in stock, went to check, wasted about fifteen minutes and then came back and said they hadn't had a delivery yet. I was like, that's false advertising then. Why put the stand up if you haven't actually got any? Urgh. So we went into the next town and managed to acquire one 'Copabana' each. The other colour wasn't really my thing.
I know they're also doing something with Malibu (the drink) and a bar, and I like the colours, but I'd never get served so there's no point even trying. So yeah, anyone else planning on taking advantage?

MUA Pro Primer and Foundation

2011-06-15T00:59:00.000+01:00

On to a much owed review of MUA Cosmetics.

MUA have brought out a primer and a (matte) foundation as part of their Pro line, and I believe each are £4?

I'll start with the primer. I know Enigma didn't get on with this, but I actually thought it was alright! It looks like this when you apply it - a sort of translucent white.

I'd use slightly more than that amount to cover my whole face.
The directions on the back say that you can use it alone, or apply foundation over the top. As I'm not a big foundation wearer, I can't vouch for that, but alone it genuinely did brighten my skin and evened things out a little - not a huge amount, but still damn decent for a £4 primer. I know GOSH do one for at least double the price.
This is going to totally fail, but photos of it on my hand (which will most likely look the same):

Still wet:

Dry:

Compare the dry with the original swatch of the primer. In real life, it was more even and looked smoother.
I find that after you've put this on, there is a five/ten minute waiting period for it to dry fully, during which it feels a bit tacky and odd. After that, it's weightless and you're good to go. All in all, I wouldn't mind repurchasing this! The fact that it just brightens up my face a little means it's great for those days where I want to ~~conceal the fact that I've been up all night playing Assasin's Creed~~ look less tired without having to apply and remove a full coverage foundation and concealer.

Now, the foundation. Hmm.

The shade I was sent was way, waaaaaay too light for me. I swatched it anyway, so you could get an idea of the shade:

Lol, yeah. Erm...I looked into the foundation range so I could buy a colour that actually fit me, but it turns out that there are only three shades. And none of them even come close.

Any UK beauty bloggers out there who think they'd fit Shade 2 (Honeycomb) comment with your email address and I'll send it to you if you'll cover postage (because I'm kinda broke right now, lol) and yeah, you can review it instead. If there are lots of people, I'll just randomly select.

I'm a tad disappointed to be honest, as the foundation looks incredibly promising - nice and thick, great coverage, and even the packaging feels luxe - but yeah, three shades won't cover most light skinned people, let alone we of the mysterious slightly less reflective skin type. Would love it if they'd bring out a few more shades in the future.

Annyeong!

2011-06-15T00:42:00.000+01:00

GUESS WHO'S BACK

Yes, it is I of the reclusive GCSE enforced break from blogging. My last exam was today (well, yesterday technically, as it's now 12:33) and I've got a gloriously long summer to do jackshit. And blog. WHOOP WHOOP.

I've missed writing so much, lol. Reading about how best to design my imaginary product for Technology so that OCR give me good marks hasn't been quite the same as reading about beauty products.

Some things that I should mention:

First off, thank you and hi to all my new followers! No idea where they came from, but welcome! Please stay a while. Or run screaming from this blog which is probably the safer option.

My Barry M giveaway is open until midnight tommorow, because I feel it's only fair as GFC was down temporarily and so I thought I'd give people the best chance of entering.

I have a LOT of stuff to catch up on, review, and generally talk about, so yeah, please stick around :P Thanks in particular to numerous lovely twitter ladies who kept me entertained through hours of painful revision (think trigonometry, circle theorems...shudder.) @uknailpolish, @tsunimee, @lipglossiping, @RandomLanda, @MorenaBarbee, @JennMUA, @25fLONDON, @nav_t, @brainsinajar, @xloodiex, @PolishGalore and I should just do a Follow Friday already. Sorry.

MUA Pro Eyeshadow Trios - 'Chocolate Box', 'Blue Babe' and 'Passion'

2011-06-08T14:21:00.000+01:00

Finally, I'm getting down to my review of the Pro line :P Unfortunately, revision has taken over my life.

So when I posted the press release of the new line, these were the things I was least enthusiastic about. Having never tried their Bourjois counterparts, most of the baked eyeshadows I'd tried had been near enough colourless dry and only became worth the money when used wet - something that in the mornings, getting ready for school, I simply can't be doing with. As soon as I get out of the bathroom in the morning, my little brother goes in there and barricades himself in there, only sauntering out when it's literally the last minute to leave, and I'm too lazy to walk downstairs and wet my brush or whatever. So dry is the way to go. If it's got no payoff dry - I'm not interested.

The packaging is actually rather nice! There isn't a mirror, so maybe not as ideal for touching up on a night out, but it certainly feels more sturdy than the regular £1 line and looks nice and sleek. I can get behind this. The 'Chocolate Box' one got a bit bashed in transit and is slightly cracked, so I wouldn't drop these onto a hard surface, but a soft one seems to be alright.

I quite like that these are all named, as well. As I'm sure a lot of you know, the original MUA name just had shade names, like "Shade 1/2/3" - I prefer words to numbers, but still. Especially as the names didn't correspond over products - Shade 11 could be a brown coloured eyeshadow but a bright coral nail polish and also a plum lipstick, for example. I prefer this system of naming.
Brown one - 'Chocolate Box'
Purple one - 'Passion'
Blue one - 'Blue Babe' though I have an irrational need to rename it 'Arctic' or something. I think it's the frosty blues and pearly whites, reminds me of a polar bear chilling in the sea.

I really think the applicator deserves a special mention. It's quite small, so it fits into a little slot in the trios, but is normal at one end and flat at the other - great for lining your eyes with. It's innovative and I can definitely get some use out of the liner side. More brands should take note.

OK, the pigmentation IS pretty fantastic. Everything you see is done dry, a couple of passes on my finger - no base, no nothing.

'Blue Babe' - ironically, you can see my blue hoodie in the shot - sorry guys.

'Chocolate Box' - I'm loving the bronzy metallicness (not a word) of this, will really complement those with darker skin such as myself, or those of you who like to tan. I'm going to experiment with the lightest shade as a highlighter for the tear duct.

'Passion' - I think the first two shades are a bit light for my personal taste, but the darkest purple is up my alley. For those of you that are lighter skinned, I think this one will make a really easy purple eye look.

MUA have really impressed me with these - I'm not afraid to admit that I really didn't have high hopes when I saw this particular aspect of the collection, but I've stopped being prejudiced now. Prejudice is bad. Especially when it comes to ~~eyeshadow~~ people.

One criticism that I'd have is that the eyeshadows are more powdery than the MUA ones I'm used to, so those of you that apply with a brush (raises hand) may create a little more mess than expected. I've made far harder compromises for cheap makeup, though, so I'm not too bothered. I think that all the trios in this range are metallic, finish wise, so matte lovers may want to stay clear.

I think these are £2.50 in shops? I did get sent these to review and they're not in my local branch yet so I couldn't tell you the exact price, but around that. Has anyone else seen these?

Nail Blog Round Up

2011-06-04T14:11:00.001+01:00

MUA Pro

2011-06-02T19:23:00.000+01:00

Putting other companies out of business since 2011.

The bronzer got a bit (well, a lot) smashed up in transit, unfortunately.

Their pro collection is even more wonderful in the flesh. Honestly. I have been given an array of eyeshadow palettes, trios, eyeliner, mascara, quad bricks, bronzer, foundation and primer to show you. That's not even all there is.

Obviously, full reviews are coming later but OMG LOOK AT THE PRETTIES.

Squeee.

Calling all Frankeners

2011-05-29T19:58:00.000+01:00

If you like to franken polishes but are at a loss for empty bottles...

I've cleaned out (to the best of my ability, as I lack pure acetone) five polish bottles. UK postage is 50p, international is £1. Will be sent with lots of bubble wrap, lol.

From left to right:

Sally Hansen bottle (red) will protect your frankens from UV rays, holds 13.3 ml, 75p
Sally Hansen bottle (green) wide mouth for easy pouring/glitter and whatnot, flat cap too (reminiscent of the Man Glaze Franken Juggs) holds 13.3ml, £1
Cylinderal bottle, volume unknown, 50p
Sally Hansen bottle (clear) holds 13.3ml, 75p
Boots mini bottles with rings, volume unknown, 60p each, £1 for the pair.

Barry M Haul

2011-05-29T16:51:00.000+01:00

It's a bit of a composite haul, as I bought three polishes in one session and two in the other, but Boots were doing 3 for 2 on Barry M Nail Paints - would have been rude not to! So two Barry M polishes - basically £6, which means this haul (minus the one polish that went into the giveaway) cost me £12? Not bad at all, for six Barry M nail polishes. Boots can actually be rather generous at times - compare this to Superdrug, who were doing 2 for £5 - only after you've spent £6 instore. Nowhere near as good - and these are offers running simultaneously!

From left to right: Dusky Mauve (Chanel Particuliere - how do you even spell that? - dupe) Lemon (from the Ice Cream Paints collection) Mushroom, Base/Top/Nail Strengthener and Black.

Lemon's formula isn't actually horrendous - shock horror - and Mushroom is the most GORGEOUS nude on me and people with my skin tone. Love love love. But obviously, there will be full swatches and reviews coming up.

But I LOVE Mushroom.

A Very Odd Request

2011-05-28T17:56:00.005+01:00

The culmination of a very long story is that I basically need to purchase Sleek palettes in:

Curious
Chaos
Bohemian *pending*
Graphite *pending*
Jewels
Safari
Paraguaya
Primer *pending*

Yeah, I know. Don't ask.
However, they can be in a completely disgusting condition. As in, hit pan on every single shadow and little bits of dust all over the mirror. Used is entirely fine. In fact, the more used, the better, as long as this reflects on the price :) So if anyone out there has some completely used and abused Sleek palettes off that list that they are happy to swap for or sell, or knows of any etailers that sell these as cheaply as you can get them, livejournal sellers, MUA swappers, anyone, PLEASE LET ME KNOW. I have exactly one month. *salutes*

Eye Charm Eyelash Glue Review

2011-05-27T14:33:00.000+01:00

After my pretty horrific experience with a certain eyelash glue, I really needed an alternative. It came to my mind that a while ago, I'd saved and bookmarked a review by the lovely Agnes of Beauty Vibes on a random Asian brand of eyelash glue, and on a whim, I saw it in the BornPrettyStore and bought it.

My full order - the stamping plate was free - was pretty damn cheap. Around three dollars for the glue, free shipping to the UK? Yes please!

First off, this glue comes with a nice, thin brush. An infinite improvement on a poxy stick. You get a really decent amount of product, and I didn't have any problems with application (it dried in good time, and held very well) or wear time. I'm pretty pleased with it, all in all. No complaints.

The order from BornPretty came in pretty decent time, I think about two weeks? Around that. I don't mind waiting a while if the shipping is free. I only turn into an impatient monster if I've paid, then I want it NAOW plz.

Favourite or current lash glue, anyone?

Nail Blog Round Up

2011-05-27T13:49:00.000+01:00

Stacie was inspired by Prada S/S 2011 http://kawaiinailart.blogspot.com/2011/05/blue-and-white-china-pattern.html
Lena is having a clear out – fancy grabbing a bargain? http://thestudentsguidetonailpolish.blogspot.com/2011/05/updated-blog-sale-barry-m-nails-inc-no7.html
The Nail Addict created this juicy water marble design http://thenailaddict.blogspot.com/2011/05/orange-water-marble-design.html
Sharon had fun with smashing her rainbow http://polishinfatuated.blogspot.com/2011/05/shattered-rainbow.html
Grace was inspired by Lagerfeld to create this design http://ooooohpretty.blogspot.com/2011/05/nails-fit-for-harvey-nichols.html
Nic was absolutely besotted with Absolutely Alice http://nicnacksnails.blogspot.com/2011/05/i-finally-tried-it.html
Jen let her sunny disposition show with her new Zoya http://moondancerjen.blogspot.com/2011/05/pippa-my-new-obsession.html
Theresa explains exactly what Shellac and Gelish semi-permanent polishes are http://theresabloor.blogspot.com/2011/05/what-are-shellac-and-gelish-nails.html
Ling Ling tried a cool tie-dye manicure http://wuliaonails.blogspot.com/2011/05/new-haul-and-tie-die-haulter-top-mani.html
Avast me hearties! Claire tried out OPI pirates’ collection and the wicked silver shatter http://toptwentynails.blogspot.com/2011/05/opi-pirates-of-caribbean-with-silver.html
Ari use pastels for a cute nail art manicure http://ari-sweetdelight.blogspot.com/2011/05/pastel-cute.html#more

Twitter for follow Friday : #FF @kawaiinailart, @toptwentynails, @EmilysNailFiles, @pamperedbygrace, @moondancerjen, @nicnacksnails, @SeptemberLena

International Blog Sale - Discontinued Urban Decay, Barry M, Nails Inc, No7, BeautyUK and more.

2011-05-26T20:32:00.010+01:00

EDIT: Now open to International buyers as well. If your country is NOT Italy (sorry guys, nothing ever seems to get there!) then you have a flat postage rate of £2 for the first item, 50p for the second and beyond that you don't pay. Packages will be sent by Airmail to keep costs down. If something gets lost, I'll keep the receipt so that it can be recovered your end, but by buying you accept that risk. Sorry guys :P

Never thought I'd do one of these, but I'm seriously cash strapped at the moment and lots of brands are releasing some awesome things so I thought I'd get rid of some of my surplus makeup to buy...more makeup. My logic. It makes sense. :/

UK: I'll post everything second class, postage is FREE. If you want it sent by recorded delivery (which I'm happy to do) it's a pound.
Comment below to reserve anything (24 hours) and my paypal address is lenatallina@googlemail.com - same as my blog one! Please send as a gift or send enough to cover the fees, whichever. All sanitation and what not is up to you.
Click the links to see swatches!

Nails Inc 'Paris' used twice, £3.50
Urban Decay 'Zero' liner, mini size, sharpened once, £3

Left to right - Nails Inc 'Shoreditch' £3
No7 'Beautiful Black' £2
Barry M Lip gloss - used twice on finger £1
MUA Eyeliners, black and blue. 50p each or 75p for both.

Nine glittery eBay Nail art pens, each with a good amount left in each, £4 for the lot or nearest offer. If you want to buy them individually, 70p each.

Primark Eye Dusts: £3.50 for the lot, or £0.75p each.

Discontinued Urban Decay pigments in Graffiti (green) and Asphyxia (duochrome pink/purple flash) £3.50 each or £6 together, or nearest offer.

Completely new, unused Hello Kitty stamping plate. £2.50 or nearest offer. You know what, the nearest offer thing applies to everything here so I'm going to stop writing it. Haggle plz.

BeautyUK Glam Nails Nail Polish in 'Slate', swatched twice, £1

No7 Exquisite Curl mascara in Black, never opened and completely unused. £5
~~No7 Amazing Eyes pencil in Brown, used three or four times but never sharpened. £2~~
~~No7 Amazing Eyes pencil in Blue Grey, used once, again never sharpened. £2~~
~~No7 Stay Perfect Eye pencil in Blackest, sharpened once, still lots of pencil left. £1~~

No7 Speed Dry Nail Polish in "Berrylicious" about 90% left. £1.00
Funky Fingers "Elephunk" swatched once. £2.00

Eye Candy False Nails, all nails are present but glue is missing. These are smaller and more curved than my own nails, so if you think you fit that profile, then go ahead. Those with wider/flatter nails or similar nails to mine should probably steer clear :( £1
It looks like there's one missing from the front, but I just put it inside the box after testing it and it didn't fit.

Left to Right:
~~Nails Inc Caramel, never used. £4.50 SOLD~~
~~Nails Inc Kabaret, swatched once. £3.50 SOLD~~
Barry M Coral, used twice. £1.50
Ciate for ASOS Paints (Megan) 90% left. £2

I know Brits generally shy away from haggling, but please do. I'm not British so feel free. :P

Barry M Giveaway!

2011-05-26T18:53:00.001+01:00

For some mad reason I now have over 300 people that want to read my nonsensical rants and general insanity. Can't think why. Anyway, to reward you guys for supporting such a weird person, I've been collecting bits and bobs for a Barry M themed giveaway.

I have for you:

The limited edition Barry M Nail Paint
Barry M Kohl Eyeliner in Black
Barry M Nail Paint in Blueberry Ice Cream
Barry M Lip Gloss
Barry M Glitter Dust (like the Dazzle Dusts, but mega glittery) in Shade 18.

If you're interested in seeing swatches of some of the products (my own products, yours are be clean and untainted) then follow this link.

I know it's only little, but I hope it makes someone out there happy. I know Barry M are basically cult now, so it will hopefully give someone the opportunity to try them out or add to their collection!

This is open to the international lovelies as well! It runs from today until around the end of my exams, so 20th of June.
One extra entry for taking the time to blog about it, and one if you tweet about it.

If you fancy tweeting, just copy and paste this phrase:

@BarryMCosmetics giveaway over at The Student's Guide to Nail Polish! http://tinyurl.com/barrymtsg

No need for comments, just fill in this form!

<p>Loading...</p>

But seriously, thanks so much for reading and commenting. I appreciate it SO much.

Nail Blog Round Up

2011-05-26T00:50:00.000+01:00

Jen created a gorgeous gradient manicure http://moondancerjen.blogspot.com/2011/05/gorgeous-glitter-gradient.html
Claire’s tutorial shows the simple way to do a half moon manicure http://toptwentynails.blogspot.com/2011/05/moon-manicure-tutorial.html
Nic celebrated finishing the school year with some swatches http://nicnacksnails.blogspot.com/2011/05/recent-notd-swatches.html
Sharon showed us her adventures in drag marbling http://polishinfatuated.blogspot.com/2011/05/drag-marbling-take-two.html
Grace had some fun with glitter to great effect http://ooooohpretty.blogspot.com/2011/05/oooooh-glitzy.html
Ladyluck took a break from her nails this week and created an eye look http://ladyluckbeauty.blogspot.com/2011/05/spring-makeup.html

And finally introducing Erin to the blog world http://sugarstar.host-ed.net/blog/
Twitter for follow Friday : #FF @kawaiinailart, @toptwentynails, @EmilysNailFiles, @pamperedbygrace, @moondancerjen, @nicnacksnails

A Week of Sleek: Sleek True Colour Lipsticks in "Earth" and "Cocoa"

2011-05-25T23:00:00.002+01:00

Don't care if it's been name-jacked, I'm posting anyway. *childish tongue gesture*

The now discontinued Earth and Cocoa, perfect nudes for women of colour...I posted about it here. Not impressed. Ah well. Apparantly, there will be some brown type shades being launched later in the year, but they'll be on the website only - we'll see if Sleek keep to that. I hope they do, because I don't see these sort of shades often.

Cocoa is lighter than Earth, and it's a nude for me. I like to team it with really dark, dramatic eyes, and walk into school and be told to take the eye makeup off by lunchtime. BUT THE LIPSTICK IS SAFE. FOR IT IS NUDE.
*satisfied pose*

Seriously, I walk in with something that isn't brown and I get told to take it off. Mildly jealous of my lighter skinned friends for being able to get away with what is essentially fuschia because their lips are red to begin with.

Earth has a lot more red in it, I suppose that's reminiscent of like clay in the earth or something. I dunno. You can tell how in touch with nature I am...

Swatches - Cocoa is far right, then Earth.

What I really dislike about these is the fact that you get so little product. Even the MUA lipsticks, which are only a pound each, give you a full sized product - these don't even fill up the tube and I always worry about them breaking.
Thoughts?

Eye Candy False Eyelashes and Nails Rant

2011-05-25T16:02:00.001+01:00

Booooooooo.

So I don't sound like a complete bitch (which I what I probably look like to my new followers, lol! Sorry. Exams make me angry) I'll start with the good/mediocre/'eh' before I start to rant.

First off - the false nails don't fit. I couldn't find a single nail that was remotely similar to my own nails - they all seemed a lot smaller, and a lot more curved than mine. I've never had that problem before, so to tell you the truth I was a bit baffled.

I used the glue instead. It's quite a nice pink colour. Performance wise, was pretty bog standard. Took a little longer to dry, strength was passable. I just like the pink colour, basically. And the application was decent.

The actual false eyelashes are a nice, natural design. The band makes them a little hard to apply, but nothing impossible.

The glue included. Oh god, the glue. RAGE.
As I mentioned in my previous eyelashes post, I am a bit of a false lashes noob, so when I first used this tube of glue to apply anything I was convinced it was my fault. It's this clear, tiny tube of white glue, and the only applicator supplied is a short white stick. Removing the cap from the glue is like defusing a bomb. It requires extreme force to actually get it out, but in doing so, glue shoots violently out of the now free applicator and you're covered with the substance. It ended up all up my wall. Poorly designed and also gross.

You apply the glue to the lash (messily, because the applicator is a bit of a fail) wait for say, a minute. Oh wait, it's not tacky yet. Wait another minute, and employ hand waving motions. Still not tacky. Wait thirty seconds. It's rock hard. Sigh, remove lash glue, repeat process ad infinitum, become twenty minutes late for school because you eventually had to give up and redo all your makeup. Still, better than rolling up looking like a 80s impersonater (ah, the memories).

Give up and apply lashes at liquid stage, lashes slip all around your eyelid, destroying carefully applied eye makeup, refuse to stick at one or both corners, adhesive balls up all around your eyelid, puppies fall from the sky etc. SUCH a pain in the butt. I'd rather they came with no glue at all like the KKCenterHK ones, at least that way I don't end up with glue all up the walls and on my bed.

A023 Eyelashes from KKCenterHK

2011-05-24T21:39:00.002+01:00

I recently got the opportunity to try some false eyeslashes from KKCenterHK. (Not an affliate link. There are no affliate links on my blog)

Being somewhat of a newb to false lashes, I went with one of the more natural looking pairs. There are literally hundreds and hundreds on the website - in all different colours and styles, so there's something to suit everyone. I wanted some that I could wear to school without having the Head of Year asking me to remove my wall of lashes on the off chance that I blinked.

They're made of like a fine, plasticky material, and are very easy to put on (once you have the hang of it, that is...whole other story involving the worst eyelash glue I've ever used in my life, but that's another review) but I find the lash band can be slightly too long for my eye, so I trim them a little bit at the end depending on how close to my tear duct I've decided to place them. They're reusable, too, which is great. For the entire box (10 ~ 12 lash pairs) it's a pretty cheap price, I think around five to ten dollars? Depends which designs you choose. These were really cheap, like $5.

And some pictures of the lashes in action. Blurry, naturally. Sorry :P

The gold eyeliner is by BeautyUK (their Metallic Eye Sparks) and the black is Sleek's Ink Pot. I like the way it looks on, and it doesn't flake - but melting in the corner of my eyes is an issue...
I didn't mascara my natural eyelashes before I applied these ones, but they seemed to blend in quite nicely. To reuse them, I remove them carefully and then rub gently with some olive oil - this removes any persistant lash glue. Wipe down and replace in the container, and that way you can get quite a few uses. All in all, I think these are really good value for money.

I've recently opened up to the world of Asian webstores, and also have some stuff I purchased from a couple of others to show you at some point - BornPrettyStore, anyone? Wanted to see what all the hype was about...

I don't do Press Releases...

2011-05-24T13:25:00.003+01:00

And that statement is about to become a lie in three, two, one...

Well. Technically it's not even a press release, I just pinched some pictures off their Facebook and am posting because I am pretty excited about this launch! It's a lot of new stuff, all in one go, and I have some money so it's basically GOGOGO.

Long time followers will know that I am slightly in love with budget brand MUA, but I'll quickly recap for my lovely newer people too:

MUA are Superdrug's own brand. It stands for 'Make Up Academy' and basically, everything is a quid. Pretty fantastic, right?
Click the 'MUA' tag on this post to find examples of me praising them endlessly, but for a quick round up, I adore the eyeshadows, love the nail polishes, love the eyeshadow dusts but would like some more colours, 'eh' on the liquid eyeliner save the metallic ones and am yet to try the rest of the range. They've been around for about a year or so - soon after I started blogging, I remember being excited about their launch.

Recently, there have been mutterings of a Pro line (where the most expensive product is £4 - still pretty damn decent!) and we're finally making some headway because there are *images*. Ooh, exciting.

Teasing you with an old one, first - eyeliner pencils. These aren't in the new launch, but these are relatively new and I still haven't tried them, yet. Bagsie the white and the orange!

Foundation primer. This'll be £4, apparantly.

Crackle Nail Polish! I think this will probably be the cheapest on the market, depending how much BeautyUK are going to sell theirs for, and I'm loving the huge range of colours. I think this could be the 'ace' of the new releases, the crackle trend isn't showing signs of dying out as of yet.

Apparantly, there was a Superdrug event earlier this month (I hadn't seen details or coverage of it on a SINGLE blog, so had no idea they even did one, lol) and while I was randomly searching, I came across these photos of MUA's new products. This blogger takes great photographs, just saying.

That brown palette looks like an amazing nude. I. am. there. I also see some glitter shadows? Talk about something for everybody...I'm up for buying every single palette, even at the max price of £4. This is providing the pigmentation is good. I'll be really upset if it lets them down!

Eyeshadow trios. I'm not so enamoured with these, to be honest - not very much a fan of the baked formula, and the colours are so so, but I'll swatch them and make my mind up then.

I'm not entirely sure what the other items on the table are, but I'm speculating mascara, new lipstick or concealer shades, new blushers, bronzers...eyeshadow quads? Either way, loving the sleek and sturdier looking new packaging.

Can't wait for this to launch (1st of June, everyone! That's like, next week) and will sprint to Superdrug to check it out. Providing my local one gets it. If it doesn't, I may have to kick a small, furry animal.

Rage Central - Superdrug Beauty Card + Possible Plagiarism

2011-05-24T12:38:00.001+01:00

TOO MUCH ANGER, NOT ENOUGH VICTIMS

Superdrug Beauty Card.

I was just chilling in my local Superdrug (buying nail polish, naturally) when we were accosted by about three shop assistants at the same time, each brandishing this card. I came in for it anyway, so I took one and read the leaflet. It's currently languishing at the bottom of my bag because I couldn't even be arsed to take a photograph.
One "point" = one penny. Contrast with Boots, who do four points per pound (though they do have a very generous scheme, to be fair...)

You can only redeem once you get to one hundred points.
100 points = 1 pound
You get a point per pound, ordinarily (unless they're doing a special promotion) So to get a quid back, on average, you'd spend £100. And surrender all the intimate personal and contact details of your life for the privilege.

...

I don't have time for this.

Thanks, observant company.

Noticed another blogger has possibly borrowed my "Sleek Week" Twitter promotional term for her own series. Which was retweeted and blogged about by Sleek. Thanks, guys. Not that you reply to my emails or anything...not even to the ones that YOU sent ME...

rage.

Epic Rant - Social Networking

2011-05-23T11:42:00.004+01:00

In honour of the #bbloggers discussion last night...

Recently, more and more brands (British ones, especially) have been beginning to interact with the consumer and blogging world via. social networking - Facebook, Twitter and the like.This is good - it makes customers feel more connected with the brand, gives a platform on which enquiries and complaints can be answered (unless you're Sleek) and I'm just plain more likely to buy from a brand that I know more about.

Unfortunately, this seems to have opened the door for sheer ignorance like this:

And this:

Nothing else I can say to this.

I don't even know why you'd advertise the fact you were reselling a company's products ON THEIR OWN PAGE. WTF. That...words cannot comprehend...

The finest in ghetto ass behaviour

et finalement

Ignore my piss poor photo editing and focus on the matter at hand :P

Honestly. Really? You want to publically beg? You don't see anything wrong with that?

At least, if you're going to be too cheap to buy from a line where everything is a pound, do your research first. A company that sells only in the UK and Ireland, and I mean only in the UK and Ireland, for example, is not going to be interested in sponsoring a US vlogger. That doesn't make any sense. If a customer from the US can't physically order, then why would you market to that consumer base via YouTubers? If a brand already has a program directed at makeup artists, why would you not try and enter through that channel instead of making yourself look unprofessional by begging on Facebook. Someone, please explain to me because I can't even comprehend this, on a thousand different levels.

Why should I care? Because it doesn't just reflect badly on the blogger, it makes all of us look bad. It feeds into the stereotype that beauty bloggers are grasping, cheapasses who are stealing money from print media and are unprofessional. Yes, the stereotype is highly undeserved, but it doesn't help when people behave like this and vindicate journalists and magazine editors who think this way about bloggers. If you've got to do it, at least take it to email?

As soon as a brand becomes reasonably 'talked about', you get a million and one harpies harrasing their Facebook and Twitter looking for free swag, or to obtain free swag by posting swatches or a review of the cheapest product in the line and then spamming the PR rep with it as if to say "Oooh, look at me. Aren't I such a good customer? SUBSIDISE MY FUTURE SHOPPING TRIPS."

Don't even get me started on the fools that can't type correctly.

Shame that a ranty post was required to bring me out of hiatus, but eh. I enjoy releasing pent up exam frustration through the medium of text. I have like five rants lined up so be prepared for anger.

GCSEs

2011-05-21T15:59:00.002+01:00

Hi everyone,

I've been officially MIA since like the 7th of May, when GCSE revision started. I'm afraid that you won't be seeing much from me for at least another three weeks while I revise and finish my exams! Sorry guys. I also haven't sent out some giveaway prizes, I'll try and get those done in the week. Again, seriously sorry! Hope to be back commenting on your blogs very soon.

Lena x

A Week of Sleek: Bad Girl iDivine Palette

2011-05-07T21:37:00.001+01:00

Long awaited, much coveted...for me, at least. This came out in like November and I NEEDED it but I've only just got my hands on it. It's pretty worth the wait, I'll tell you that.

This palette seems to be more "ordered" compared to the usual Sleek mashup of completely different colours and finishes. It's almost as if each shimmer colour has a matte counterpart, and the highlights have a cooler and warmer partner. It's quite cool, actually. That doesn't mean that I like the highlights, though. They're too glittery for me, not to mention pretty much the exact same as the ones in the Good Girl palette.

Innocence, Gullible, Blade, Gun Metal (gunmetal is one word, Sleek, FYI)

Pigmentation wise, there were only a couple of flubs. Envy was pretty pants. On the whole, the standards of their mattes seems to have been raised, which is only a good thing (Acid palette, anyone?) Lets hope future matte releases can be as pigmented.

Underground, Noir, Intoxicated, Envy, Obnoxious

Obnoxious (again) Abyss, Twilight (minus two points) Rebel.

Anyone else out there own this one?

A Week of Sleek: Sleek Palettes

2011-05-07T16:38:00.000+01:00

I bought Storm, Bad Girl and Sunset.

Sunset:

Storm

Bad Girl

As always, stick around for individual reviews!

A Week of Sleek: Avoir La Pêche Collection

2011-05-04T20:48:00.000+01:00

Title is slightly misleading as I ran a mile from that eyeshadow palette. Ewww palette full of weird peach shades and unpigmented mattes. No thank you.
I did pick up Pan Tao blush and Sugar May Pout Polish.
I like the names (don't know what Pan Tao means, but it sounds cool) and the blush seems easier to open than the average Sleek blush, which can only be a good thing. I love my Scandalous blush but it such a pain in the bum to open I don't reach for it as often as I'd like. Which is a shame, because it's a really unique shade.

It's a light peach blush, not as pigmented as I expected but that's not a bad thing - Scandalous was incredibly pigmented and needed to be used with a /very/ light hand. I think you could afford to make a few more mistakes with this one, making it more beginner friendly.

Sugar May Pout Polish was my first Pout Polish, so I wasn't too sure as to what to expect. The first thing I noticed, it has to be said, was the smell. If you're sensitive to scents in your cosmetics, you might want to pass this up - it's a very obvious artificial vanilla smell. I don't mind the smell, but it leaves an almost bitter, chemical taste even though you haven't licked it...weird. It does moisturise really well though, so I guess it's good if you're willing to overlook that aspect. (bad) Lip swatch:

It's not that pigmented at all, makes my lips look slightly peach with an average application. Good for school.
Swatches of the Pout Polish, three swipes of blush in the middle, one swipe at the end.

Blush absolutely smothered onto my arm:

A Week of Sleek: Nudes by Sleek

2011-05-03T13:33:00.001+01:00

Sleek's Sheer Cover and True Colour lipsticks, as well as Pout Polish in "Chocolate Kiss"

Left to Right: Cocoa, Calico, Earth, Chocolate Kiss.
Stay tuned this week for an actual post/review.

A Week of Sleek: Sleek Contour Kit

2011-05-02T21:44:00.000+01:00

Finally going to post about my mahoosive haul, lol. Kick starting off my "Week of Sleek" (or "Sleek Week", that works as well) with something I've been wanting for a long time - the Contour Kit.

So the contour kit comes in three colours - light, medium, and dark. I got the dark one and I feel like it's a pretty decent contour for my skin. What I like about the kit is that it comes with instructions on the box and a diagram in the form of a leaflet inside, which is great for clueless people such as myself who are desperate for some semblance of cheekbones from a box (too lazy to work out and obtain them for real, lol) but don't know where to begin.

I think you can also use this to slim down your nose and other things, but I don't need to do that so just applied some contour powder just under where I'd usually put my blush, and blended upwards slightly. Then I applied my blush, and finally the highlighter. I was pretty pleased with the result! I think I may need to play around with my positioning a bit more but for a first attempt, it was alright. You could probably wear this as a straight bronzer too, instead of blush - something I'm going to try. Incidentally, I have a bit of a bronzer horror story for you. Last day of term at school, we're hanging around in the canteen waiting for the bus when one of my friends says, "Did you see Beth in Year Ten today?" I was like, "No. Why?"
"She had two massive smears of ultra shimmery bronzer on her cheeks and she's not even tanned yet so it was just this ridiculous contrast and she looked dumb as hell."
Haha. Year Tens are snotty little poos. Worst year group. No fashion sense and they all have the same hair (backcombed to death, naturally) and the same colour, which changes every season (or according to the colour Rihanna has gone for that month) right now it's that really unoriginal red colour, which is totally wrong on 90% of them.

Wow, that was a tangent and a half. Anyway, I quite like this product :P

MUA Eyeshadow and Eye Liner Review

2011-05-01T17:29:00.000+01:00

Looks a bit like a radioactivity warning symbol, amirite?

Ahead of the upcoming launch of the Professional line (which looks really, really interesting) I recieved some MUA bits and bobs to play with. I've already made no secret of how much I adore the eyeshadows and the nail polishes (just click the MUA tag to see my reviews of those) but I'd never tried the liquid eyeliners before, so I was interested in how they'd fare up. They've also just launched the Eye Kohls which I need to look at, especially the orange! What I love about MUA is that everything is a pound, so it's very student friendly.

So I recieved the liquid eyeliner in shades five, three, and two. This photo tells you which shades correspond to which colours:

Right away, the applicator for the black was a little off. It seemed bent at the tip?


Sorry for the abysmal quality, just could not get my camera to focus on anything but the hairs on the carpet.

I could still apply it, but it was slightly more tricky than the applicator for Shade 3, which was great. I found the black took a little bit of time to set, (although didn't budge once it was set) but sadly, on me, it flaked off within about an hour.

I loved everything about Shade 3. The brush was completely straight and had just the right amount of "give" in it to give you a nice, thin, precise line. I adore the colour, as well - it's a gorgeous bronze which is great for everyday wear. Also, it didn't flake - probably because so little product needed to be used on account of the great brush. So thumbs up for that.

Shade 2 was in the middle - the brush wasn't as bad as Shade 5's but not as good as Shade 3's, and the colour flaked a little. It does leave a blue stain on your skin, which was quite hard to remove. All in all, I'd definitely purchase Shade 3 and leave the other two. The silver in the line looks quite interesting as well, so I will be checking that out.

I had so much fun photographing the shadows. They're so pretty.

So I have shades 10 (blackened indigo with gorgeous glitter sparkles, closest to camera) 12 (MAC "Club" dupe) 7 (bright grass green) and 4 (light pink). I actually already had shades 7 and 4, so one was passed onto my Mum (who loves it) and one made it's way into the giveaway pot - I opened them to take photos, but didn't swatch them - used my own for that!

MUA has a real strength in their pearl (shimmer) eyeshadows - all of them are pigmented and there is a wide range of colours. The microfine glitter in Shade 10 is absolutely gorgeous and really pops over a base like Pixie Epoxy. It really reminds me of my Urban Decay Black Palette - it's the same sort of dark, brooding, blackened shades with glitter to add complexity.

I've taken a ton of photos to illustrate the colour shift in Shade 12...sorry. It's too pretty, the sort of eyeshadow that can be worn without anything in the crease because it's so complex and interesting by itself.

High end dupes for a pound. God bless the UK.

This. Is. SPARTAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

2011-05-01T00:21:00.002+01:00

This is madness.
Madness? Yes. I never would have expected the blog of Sparta to obtain 300 followers.
Er, King Leonidas...I think you may have deviated from the script a little there.

300 followers! Thank you all so, so much! Thanks so much to regular commentors, as well. Your comments always make me ~~feel less unloved~~ smile!

I have been chatting about a giveaway and it is high time that I posted it up. However, I still want to procure a couple more Barry M items to add to it, so allow me a week or two? At the moment, I have a Glitter Dust, the eyeliner, a nail paint, a lipgloss and the eye pencil. I was thinking some more nail paints, since they seem to be the most popular out of all Barry M offerings?
~~Also, still need to announce the winner of my BeautyUK giveaway. Naughty :/~~

Starting on Bank Holiday Monday (MayDay), I'll begin my "Week of Sleek" where I'll post about my haul, basically. And make you all want to order, and then weep because international shipping is ridiculous. Mwahahaha!

Bloggers that have Twitter, please post your links/usernames. I need more people to follow and talk to! Tweet me anytime, I'm always ready to ~~procrastinate Maths revision~~ talk! @SeptemberLena

EDIT: Just put through to Random. org - winner was Nicole! Congratulations! I've emailed you :) Please reply in 72 hours or I'll have to choose someone else, sorry!

ANOTHER EDIT: 302 followers? If 300 was madness, this is INSANITY. Thank you all sooooo much. <3

Barry M. M for Middleton.

2011-04-30T18:28:00.001+01:00

I kid, I kid. Thought I'd try and sneak the Royal Wedding in there somewhere.

It's taken me a lengthy amount of time but I've finally looked at the Barry M kit, the one that they were giving away free with The Sun Buzz. Why is this relevent to you guys? The promotion ended a long time ago. Well. I have another kit, to give away (with some other goodies, of course) when I reach 300 followers. Which I am only two followers away from! Yey! Thank you!

It consists of a lip gloss, an eye pencil, and a nail polish. I was most interested in the nail polish, not even going to pretend. It's a rather unique colour.

Wow, that was heavy on pictures.

Under artificial light, this polish appears almost terracotta - it reminds me of flower pots. I don't really like it when it's that colour. Under natural light, this turns into a gorgeous tea rose-esque colour. I love it.
Three coats, the formula was rather decent. They should make this one permanent, just because it's so unique.

The colour of the lipgloss is just completely, one hundred percent, no no no no no WRONG on me! Looks gorgeous on lighter skinned beauties. Just not on me. I was watching a Nigerian TV channel the other day and the presenter had on the most ridiculous, baby pink lipgloss/lipstick hybrid. It was so badly applied it made the left side of her top lip look rectangular. I was like, "What are you DOING? Get off the air. No wait, get out of the country. You deserve to have your passport revoked for crimes against cosmetics. Urgh."

It's a shame though, because I find this gloss really moisturising. I don't need a balm underneath or anything, and it makes my lips feel really soft. It's scented with this sweet taste that I can't place - not unpleasant, but these things differ amongst people. I find if I use this really, really sparingly, it just lightens my lips a little and I can get the moisturising benefit without the stupid lip colour. I'll be looking out for this gloss, in a different shade.

The kohl is bog standard. I like it because it's in an actual pencil and not a plastic surround. Quite hard, but you waste less when you sharpen it so it evens out?

Sleek's Response

2011-04-30T00:08:00.002+01:00

Sleek got in touch with me regarding this post and this is what they had to say. All the bold apart from the signature is mine.

I am writing you in response to your post titled “Sleek MakeUP is no longer aimed at Black women” and follow up post regarding our True Colour Lipstick range as I know that you have sent a query through to PR and I thought I’d take the opportunity to respond and address some of your concerns.

Firstly let me say what an interesting read your post made. It touched on many issues that as a company we have had to address in order to position the Sleek MakeUP brand as one of inclusivity rather than exclusivity.

As a Black Caribbean woman and Marketing Director of Sleek MakeUP it was clear to me that it was not only Black Women that had issues with finding their particular shades of foundation. Mixed Race women, Middle Eastern women, East & South Asian women and Latina women as well as others sometimes experienced this problem as well. In truth Sleek Cosmetics (the former brand) catered predominately for Black but also Mixed Race and Asian women. Our strength as a brand was being able to understand the requirements needed in the development of makeup for a plethora of darker skin-tones.

As a company we found that it was an untenable position to be in if we were for example going to some Caribbean islands and also South American countries where there were many mixed-raced women as well as Black women and saying to those women – our focus is only to provide makeup for Black women. This to me not only seemed unfair but I also felt that it disregarded the contributions of the many women of Mixed Race and Asian backgrounds who do not consider themselves to be Black but have bought into the brand for many years.

Our position will always be to celebrate the variety and diversity in beauty and to enable women who found it often difficult to find their shades in mainstream brands to be assured that they can find their shade within the Sleek MakeUP range. Excluding particular women from buying into our brand because of their racial background goes against the spirit of celebrating diversity. To take the Sleek MakeUP brand to markets where other brands often do not venture such as Brazil it is important that we are humble enough to research and understand the complexities of racial identity in these markets and not force our own perception of race and beauty on them. To do this as a brand we have to be in the position where we offer a full spectrum of foundation shades from which shades can be selected that are appropriate for their market and racial mix.

When the Sleek Cosmetics brand re-launched as Sleek MakeUP some six years ago we were clear that the focus would be not to sell based on race but to sell products based on high pigmented products that enable all women to further enhance their natural beauty. The models that we use to reflect the Sleek MakeUP brand are carefully chosen so that they are examples that we can all buy into beauty regardless of the race of the model on the front cover and vary so that we show all shades of beauty. We do not believe this makes us just another brand as Sleek MakeUP is the only mass-market brand that provides 30 shades for all women – truly celebrating diversity. Our aim is that any woman can say “My Skin, My Shade My MakeUP” – our tagline when referring to themselves and the Sleek MakeUP brand.

We understand that some of you may feel that you would prefer to shop from brands that only cater for a specific race due to concerns that you have about companies being able to understand the needs of women with darker skin-tones. However I would like to assure you that what we have found is women of all skin tones often have very similar problems and what we are doing is trying to address this not for a particular race but for women in general. It is admittedly a challenge but one that we embrace.

I would also like to state that in regards to our ‘Destination S’ event bloggers of many races were invited and present. We have never and would never select invitees to any of our events based on their racial background! And the suggestion that there were no black bloggers at the event is simply untrue. Bloggers are selected based on past attendees list, bloggers that are on our mailing list and finally bloggers that have been in contact with us are put on a master list and then random selections occur.

The fact is many bloggers have reviewed the Sleek MakeUP brand from all over the world and who are of many differences, all of whom have contributed to the success of the Sleek MakeUP brand in recent years – we will never say to any of these contributors nor the consumers that have bought products as a result of the blogs and vlogs that we are happy for you to buy into one part of our range but not the other, it would be like saying thanks but no thanks. We appreciate every customer, every blogger and vlogger that has bought and continues to buy Sleek MakeUP products and we will continue to work on perfecting our line for women of all races without neglecting the need to understand the complexities that women of darker skin tones have when finding their shade of makeup. I’m sorry if you or any of your readers who are bloggers felt they were over-looked in our selection as this was not our intention and in fact you raising this issue has encouraged us to think about developing a fairer and more comprehensive selection process for our blogger events.

In regards to the discussion addressing the comprehensiveness of our new True Colour Lipsticks range, in-particular it lacking in offering for women of darker skin-tones. As a company we work closely with some of the best makeup artists in industry and we get feedback from these artists when developing our range. These make-up artists use our products on our campaign models who are ethnically diverse as well as on their clients. They continually provide us with product feedback which enables us to improve our offering. We combine this feedback with sales data and trend reports, this is the basis for us discontinuing or amending a range such as True Colour Lipstick.
We have kept the best selling shades from the old range, introduced new shades based on trends and Makeup artist feedback. There may be shades that you feel better fit women with darker skin-tones that are not in the new range which may be the case, however the reason for this is probably because globally they were not either best-selling lines or lines that we decided to keep based on buyer and makeup artist feedback globally.. I say globally because this also takes into account markets like the ones you have previously mentioned i.e. Nigeria.
I will admit that this range does lack probably two brown-type shades which we found during our testing, these are currently being developed and will be available later on in the year. Ideally they should have been included in the first launch however with only 20 in-store spaces we felt confident in the new line up being trend-inspired and compatible for many women to be launched as the primary range with provisions to add other shades for online sale throughout the year if necessary.

Once again, thank you for taking the interest in the Sleek MakeUP brand to take the time to write posts addressing some of your concerns and in turn giving us an opportunity to respond. I hope in my attempt to clarify our position on this topic you will be able to better understand the challenges that multi-ethnic marketing throw up and our attempts to combat these as an ongoing commitment. We continue to listen, learn and position the Sleek MakeUP brand in accordance with our core beliefs and that best fit our valued consumers.

All the best,

Marketing Director
Sleek MakeUP

First off, I was really pleased to read such a comprehensive reply from Sleek. They've addressed most of my concerns in this, so I'll just type a quick response.

The "no black bloggers" thing was my bad. I don't think I said it in so many words, but instead of researching into everyone that attended the event I just took Twitter's word for it. I hold my hands up, that was my mistake. Also, I never commented on whether the selection process was fair or unfair, though I have seen that sentiment around. Just clearing that up.
EDIT: In all fairness, they only had one or two black bloggers/vloggers involved from what I've seen and read.

I probably didn't make this clear, but I really like the fact that Sleek have so many shades of foundation and that a good sized sample is available in store. It's great that they aim to cater not only to black and white women but also Latin, Asian etc. with the foundation line. What my main issue was with the change was that it seemed like carefully selected lip colours, eye colours etc. that were either nude on or flattering to women of colour were in danger of being lost in favour of this new diversity - that instead of producing more product to flatter everyone, the products that seemed too "niche" would be gotten rid of. However, if you skip to the last thing I bolded, later this year - fingers crossed - two more brown shades will make their way onto the shelves, or at least onto the website. EDIT: As of August 2011, this hasn't happened and I've heard nothing about it (though a LOT about their upcoming releases) so until this occurs, I'll be standing by my original statement)
What has been clarified is that Sleek are aiming it at "everybody" but rather than cutting down the shade range to reduce the exclusivity, if you will, they're saying that they will be trying to expand it and make it more comprehensive so that women of all colours will be able to find what they need. Taniqua mentions that Sleek are looking at or have already entered other markets such as Brazil and the Caribbean, so hopefully this means that the shade range of all of their products will continue to expand and grow, and Sleek can remain a company which black women can find makeup products they need at a decent price.

Their customer service is still appalling, though.