A couple of weeks ago I happened to be very early for my university lecture. I could have acted like the good student I am not and passed the minutes away in the library; researching topics and borrowing books. I also could have just sat outside the lecture room, waiting. By now you've probably guessed that I didn't do either of these things; I did however go to my nearest Boots (Drugstore) to pass the time and ultimately made a few impulse buys. I hold their 3 for 2 offer highly accountable for my naughty spends and I am in no way blaming my own lack of self control.
First on the list is L'Oréal Paris True Match Foundation, a favourite of Vivianna Does Makeup: I've been on the hunt for a cheaper alternative to my much loved MAC Studio Fix Fluid for months now. I'm not one for stepping out of my comfort zone so trying this foundation was a huge change, I haven't delved away from MAC in 4 years, tragic. The foundation comes in a huge range of shades, catering for warm and cool skin undertones. If you are unsure of your skins colouring then I would highly suggest using Temptalia's Foundation Matrix, a step by step guide to help determine your shade for numerous brands of foundation! Being a very pale girl, I chose to go with the shade W1 Golden Ivory. This shade is very similar to my Studio Fix Fluid in NC15 and from looking at the foundation matrix, I knew it would be a good match. The foundation itself looks almost watery when you dispense it out of the pump. This was worrying as I like a heavy coverage foundation to cover the irritated skin on my cheeks, I felt that the consistency of the foundation just wouldn't be able to cut it. I was however pleasantly surprised. With much blending and buffing, the foundation did give a flawless cover, although I did use more product than if I was using my Studio Fix. If you do like a fuller coverage then be prepared to build up on the layers you apply. My one major issue with this foundation is how badly it accentuates dry skin. It will cling to any dry skin on your face so please make sure to moisturise and prime appropriately to avoid this. I do not believe that the True Match is better than my Studio Fix Fluid, but it does a good job. For days when I don't want a heavy coverage and for a cheaper fall back foundation, I would more than likely use True Match.
I'm a big brow lover and I'd like to think my eyebrow game is stronger than ever now I've stopped excessively plucking them. Benefit's Gimme Brow Gel claims to thicken individual hairs and create a natural but defined brow. I have a very particular brow routine, so was very worried about introducing this product to my little hairy caterpillars, but it is love. For my dark hair, I use the shade medium/dark and it is perfect. You can use the product to define, shape and set your brows all with it's small wand. The wand enables you to be as precise as you like with your brows without worrying about the gel smudging anywhere else. I still like to fill my eyebrows in with an eyebrow pencil first. But afterwards I will always use the Gimme Brow to set and define my brows so they appear fuller. The woman who served me also told me that the product contains marshmallow extract for strengthening and conditioning the brows & who doesn't love marshmallows?
L'Oreal False Lash Telescopic Mascara in waterproof black. I'm not going to say too much on this mascara, all I really need to say is IT'S AMAZING. After curling my lashes, I apply two coats of the mascara and that's it. There is no budging this product, it lasts all day and the definition and volume given is just outstanding. A new favourite of mine; I've worn it on my lashes for all of my recent nights out and I love the effect more than if I was to wear real false lashes. Lastly, SEVENTEEN Clear Definition Mascara, a very impressive buy. The clear mascara can be used to set brows, as a normal mascara or as a quick base before I apply my waterproof one. It lasts throughout the day and has become a staple part of my makeup kit.
