Hit the chemist for your budget buys
With next pay cheque still being a few weeks away I had a look at some good pharmacy buys this week, with everything here being under €20. Too often we overlook these brands in favour of department stores and when on a budget it is reassuring to know that we can still be uber glam.
First up Isa Dora Flashing volume mascara, I have featured this [product on my blog and here already but it really is becoming my handbag hero at the moment, long defined lashes are what I love and this mascara delivers those in spades. It is super for those with sparse lashes as the brush head is tiny and can get to even the finest lashes. I can vouch for it being humidity resistant too, as I wore it both to work and out at night, it didn’t budge. I have used it constantly since December and it is still fresh and non-clumpy. Just remember not to pump the wand into the dispenser as this dries out the product (true for all mascara).
L’oreal Skin Perfecting cleansing oil €9.99, is a great product. Oils are all the rage at the moment and this little treasure is perfect. It removes all types of make-up, most especially long wear products like foundation and mascara, it is gentle enough to use on the eye area. It dissolves make up and is non greasy which is always a plus. It is also suitable for all skin types, so if there is more than one woman in the house it is very versatile indeed.
Soon to be released NYC Smooch proof Lip stain is a vibrant lip stain that is well… kiss proof. My current favourite colour is Get Noticed and the concept behind these is really simple, you apply one coat for subtle or day wear, two for a more intense look and three for a complete stain effect. They are ideal in that they don’t bleed which is brilliant if you are more mature like me. They are a matte finish and will even outsmart a few glasses of wine, €3.49 each and available in six shades. In store in February just in time for a Valentines kiss.
Not a fan of black liner? Rimmel have the one for you in their new Kate, gel liner which is emerald green and waterproof, it comes with a precision brush for application and looks great on all eye colours. You can make the line more dramatic for night time and add a slick of gold shadow to really make your eyes pop. Smudge it out if you want an ultra-glam smoky look without too much drama.
No7 instant radiance highlighter is a little stick of wake-me-up. Adding shimmer and glow to even the dullest skin it is really great for sweeping over cheekbones, collarbones and under the brow bone €12.95 from Boots and No7 stockists.
Real Techniques Expert Face brush, €13.29, available from Boots and Sam McCauley, is a wider, ultra firm face brush and a must-have beauty makeup accessory that will help to create a flawless base on your skin. The more time you spend on this first step of makeup application, the better the results at the end. It is also super easy to clean, only requiring a rinse with some shampoo. They are cruelty free also.