Review | MAC Studio Waterweight SPF 30 Foundation NC15

Following my makeup session at MAC last March, I was given the new Studio Waterweight SPF 30 Foundation to try out. The excitement of finally having a MAC foundation shade match took the better of me and the day after I had my makeover, I started test running the said foundation.

Let's have a look at the packaging first - like all other MAC products, the foundation comes in it's own black box and it is presented in a sleek, frosted glass jar with a pipette dropper. The MAC Studio Waterweight Foundation, as the name implies, has a light weight texture, offering light coverage that can be built up yet still maintain a natural finish that doesn't look like you're wearing makeup.

A 3/4 full pipette is all I need to cover my whole face. My preferred method of application is pipetting the foundation on a makeup artist palette and picking it up with my foundation brush to work it into my skin.  I have to say I am a really big fan of the pipette dropper as it gives me total control as to how much product I use.

I find that this foundation really gives my skin a light, dewy finish and is bang on trend with the fresh skin look that is currently what everyone is after lately. One small word of warning though - make sure your face is thoroughly moisturised before applying this foundation as it can cling to dry skin patches.

I am in the shade NC15 which is an absolutely perfect match to my very pale skin tone and I am very pleased that the foundation does not oxidise and remains intact throughout the day. I would describe the shade NC15 as a light ivory with yellow undertones. If like me, you prefer light coverage foundations, I do suggest you give MAC Studio Waterweight Foundation a try, plus with SPF 30, you can skip applying sunblock if you like!

Myself wearing MAC Studio Waterweight SPF30 Foundation in NC15

MAC Studio Waterweight Foundation can be bought from MAC in Tower Road Sliema, or from the MAC counter at Debenhams at The Point.

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Review | Vichy Dermablend [3D Correction] Foundation

Vichy's Dermablend line has already established as the makeup line of choice with people who want to cover up acne and certain skin conditions yet still be able to achieve that perfect, natural look. Recently, the same Dermablend range has expanded a little more with the launch of a revolutionary foundation.

A few weeks ago, I was invited to attend the launch of the new Dermablend foundation, the [3D Correction]. After witnessing with my own eyes, what this foundation is capable of doing, I really couldn't wait to try it out myself. I had already tried the Vichy Dermablend Fluid Corrective Foundation but this new whipped cream texture of Dermablend 3D really got me curious to try it.

Vichy Dermablend 3D comes in a black box that matches the 30ml tube the product is supplied in. I really like the matte, satin finish of the tube for it really conveys the smooth application of the product. (As a side note, Vichy is changing the Dermablend range packaging to black so all the products will now be supplied in black tubes instead of white).

The Dermablend [3D Correction] foundation comes out of the tapered end of the tube and I have to admit I really like this way of dispensing the product as you have complete control over how much product comes out. 

The whipped cream texture of this foundation is what makes it so revolutionary and unique - it aims to level and cover indented scars and acne bumps in 1 layer. Now, personally I do get the occasional hormonal breakout but I don't get anything serious and I have no scars and bumps but I still wanted to see how it will cover up these occasional breakouts.

Having always used fluid foundations, I have to admit I found it a little difficult to work with this whipped cream texture at first. Taking out just a little bit of foundation on a palette and building coverage as I go is what I found to work best for me. Also, a flat foundation brush is your best bet when working with this foundation. Denser brushes don't really work well with this foundation as it will otherwise cake on. One layer of foundation is enough for me and I was positively surprised at how natural it looks - you can barely tell I am wearing makeup! It dries to an ultra matte finish which is what I look for in a foundation.

left: no makeup; right: wearing Vichy Dermablend [3D Correction] foundation

Another definite plus to this foundation is the staying power. On my oily skin, it lasted for more than 9 hours (it is supposed to last a total of 16 hours but I didn't wear it that long), thus it is perfect for workdays as it will see you flawlessly throughout the day. Vichy claim that Dermablend [3D Correction] treats acne and gives a more uniform complexion with each use but I cannot really attest to that as my breakouts go down within a couple of days.

Vichy Dermablend [3D Correction] is available in 4 shades:

Vichy Dermablend [3D Corrrection] Foundation swatches - first swatch: 15 Opal; third swatch: 35 Sand
Vichy Dermablend Fluid Corrective Foundation swatches - second swatch: 25 Nude; last swatch: 45 Gold
{top in natural light; bottom with flash}

Vichy Dermablend [3D Correction] is oil-free, non comedogenic, dermatologically and ophtalmologically tested and it is non-acnegenic. It is also suitable for sensitive skin and contains no parabens and has an SPF of 25.

Due to the thicker nature of this foundation, I prefer to use it when my skin really needs help to look its absolute best but since the finished look is still very natural, I wouldn't mind using it everyday. I would especially recommend the Dermablend [3D Correction] for people with oily skin types.

Here is a little swatch comparison between both formulas of the Dermablend Foundations in shade 15 Opal:

Vichy Dermablend [3D Correction] foundation swatch (left) vs Vichy Dermablend Fluid Corrective Foundation (right)
{left photo in natural light; right photo with flash}

The Fluid Corrective Foundation looks a little lighter in the pictures but in reality, both shades are identical when applied on the face.

I have said it multiple times before and I will say it again now, Vichy Dermablend foundations are hands down the best on the market and best of all, they retail for only 18 euros each. The full Vichy Dermablend range can be found at various pharmacies around Malta and Gozo. Like their Facebook page to stay updated with upcoming products and competitions!

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Review | Catrice 12h Matt Mousse Makeup 010 Soft Ivory

Now that the days are getting warmer and skin darker, I tend to skip foundation altogether but until I get a darker tan, I still use foundation on certain days. However, I do tend to go for lighter formulas.

I have been testing the new Catrice 12h Matt Mousse Makeup in the shade 010 Soft Ivory for a few weeks now and I can finally give a full review.

The mousse foundation comes in a 16g glass jar so it is a little heavy to carry around but I still like that the opening is big enough for a brush to fit in to pick up the product instead of having to use your fingers. The texture of Catrice the 12h Matt Mousse Makeup is very light and spreads easily onto the skin.

Out of the four available shades, 010 Soft Ivory is a perfect match for me. Here I would like to point out that all four shades are quite light so if you're dark skinned, I wouldn't reach for this particular foundation.

I like to apply this foundation with a flat foundation brush for perfect coverage and I like that it can be built up. It dries to a sort of powdery finish so there really is no need to set it with an actual powder. As for staying power, I can attest to the claims that this lasts for a full 12 hours, even a little longer and it stays looking fresh and matt all throughout the time of wear.

Catrice 12h Matt Mousse Makeup is available in authorised pharmacies. For stockist information and product updates, follow the Catrice Malta Facebook Page.

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Review | Vichy Dermablend Fluid Corrective Foundation 16Hr in 15 Opal

What if a foundation could change your life? Sounds impossible to believe yet at one point or another, I am positive we have all wished for a single product that covers all imperfections and evens out our skin tone whatever the problem.

When our skin looks good, we feel good and we feel more confident and this is exactly the concept behind Vichy's new corrective foundation Dermablend, which promises 16 hours wear without that cakey feeling you get with full coverage foundations.

The packaging is very simple and I like the hygienic tube which enables me to control how much product I use without having to dip my fingers or anything in the product. A little word of caution - a little goes a long way with this foundation so I suggest you start with a small amount and build it up if necessary.

My shade is 15 Opal, which is the lightest out of the four available. Vichy Dermablend Fluid Corrective Foundation is especially indicated for uneven skin texture, dark under eye circles and diffused redness - all three of which I have in different degrees.

Left: Vichy Dermablend Fluid Corrective Foundation 16Hr 15 Opal
Right: Vichy Dermablend Fluid Corrective Foundation 16Hr 35 Sand
{photo taken in natural light}

Left: Vichy Dermablend Fluid Corrective Foundation 16Hr 15 Opal
Right: Vichy Dermablend Fluid Corrective Foundation 16Hr 35 Sand
{photo taken with flash}

I always like it when skin care brands come up with their own range of makeup as I know my skin will fully benefit. In fact this foundation is 100% suited for sensitive skin, it is non comedogenic, hypoallergenic and fragrance and paraben-free.

I have worn this foundation last Saturday for a total of 10 hours and it still looked good at the end of the day and I really like the matte finish and full coverage minus the mask effect you usually get with such foundations. It also has SPF35 so it is perfect for daytime use. I really like the flawless look this gives my skin and applying it really simple - prepare the foundation on the back of your hands, apply with your preferred method and blend for a smooth, flawless finish!

Overall, I would definitely give this foundation a thumbs up and look forward for the rest of the Vichy Dermablend range to be launched locally. For more information and to stay updated, check out the Vichy Facebook page.

Vichy Dermablend Fluid Corrective Foundation 16Hr is available at authorised pharmacies for €17.90 for 30ml of product.

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Review | Catrice All Matt Plus Shine Control Makeup 010 Light Beige

Recently I found myself experimenting more with foundation even on a daily basis especially on days when my skin needs some perking up. My latest obsession in this regard has been the new foundation from Catrice, the All Matt Plus Makeup in the shade 010 Light Beige.

 

I came to know about this foundation during last month's new products' launch event and it had me at the words 'shine control'. Having oily skin can be a nightmare when it comes to finding the right foundation so I am always open to new and different options. Read on to see what my opinion about this new foundation is.

 

The packaging speaks volumes. It gives the illusion of a more expensive product and the satin finish on the glass part suggests the same finish on your skin. The foundation comes with a handy pump dispenser which enables control on the amount of product that comes out. For me, one pump is enough to cover my whole face and bring the foundation down to my neck. The formula blends seamlessly with my skin and does not oxidise on me.

The texture, albeit on the thick side, is easy to work with and doesn't take long to dry. It has medium to high coverage and my skin doesn't feel dry while wearing this foundation. Being oil-free, it helps prevent makeup meltdown due to sebum being produced by the skin itself and the long-wearing formula is great to take you from day to night.
 

Catrice All Matt Plus Foundation 010 Light Beige
{left - unblended; right - blended}

 One thing to note is that the foundation doesn't look cakey and feels very light on the skin all throughout the time of wear and I never found the need to re-touch it with powder or anything. I didn't get any breakouts from using this product either so it's all good!

 

Would I recommend this foundation? Definitely yes! Especially to people with oily skin who need a good foundation that stays matt all day. The only con I can think of with this foundation is that the choice of shades is only limited to 4 tonalities.

 

Catrice All Matt Plus Foundation can be found in authorised stockists across Malta & Gozo. For more information, like the Catrice Malta Facebook page.

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Event | Personal Make Up Workshop at Biocare Academy

Opening my mail inbox to beauty related event invites always makes my day! The day when I received an invite from the ever so sweet Roberta on behalf of Biocare Academy to attend a personal makeup workshop, was no exception. Yes, such things make me happy :)

 

I was really looking forward to this event because it is something different from the other events we are used to, plus a makeup workshop with the uber talented makeup artist and educator Jean Pillow is something I did not want to miss!

 

The staff at the academy are always a pleasure to meet and they always greet us with a smile (and tasty nibbles and a glass or two of Prosecco wine)! I'm in love with their premises and we got to spend an entire three hours in their 'makeup studio'! Marija from all things lady was Jean's volunteer for the night and I think my fellow bloggers will agree that the makes for a good model and Jean worked her magic perfectly! Here are pictures and some tips I picked up during the workshop, which in my opinion was highly educational while being fun at the same time...we even got to apply our makeup in the end! You will see by the end of the post that makeup doesn't have to be for special occasions only, all you need is an extra 30 minutes max in the morning to give yourself a more polished look!

 

- Always start with clean skin. Well-cared for skin will help makeup look better and last longer. Here Jean is using Eva Garden Makeup Removing Tissues to cleanse Marija's face.

- The best way to ensure that you do not have a lot of product on your face to use your hand as a palette and blend the product before actually applying it.

 

- Patting motions always work best to blend the product into the skin and build up coverage as needed. It will also help makeup last longer.

- A primer base is a must to fill superficial wrinkles and lines and to even out your skin. It will also help the makeup last longer.

 

- Applying concealer with a brush is your best bet to make sure you cover up dark circles and blemishes well.

 

- To effectively conceal dark circles, it is best to avoid a light concealer and go for a more orange based one instead. The reasoning behind this is that purple (the under tone for dark circles), is exactly opposite orange on the colour wheel, hence the latter will counteract dark circles more effectively. 

 

- A dirty green concealer is specifically targeted to counteract redness (same reasoning as above).

 

 

- When it comes to finding the right foundation, everyone knows that your best bet is to try it on in white light or better yet, sunlight. However, did you know that it is best to check whether the shade matches your skin tone is to try the foundation on a protruding area of the face such as your cheekbones? This is so as such parts of our face catch more light and hence it easier to see how well a foundation matches your skin. You know it's a good match when you can't tell where the foundation starts and ends!

- Patting motions are your best to avoid looking cakey or putting on too much foundation. The trick is to use a latex sponge and make it act like a container for your foundation and gently press it against your face with your index finger (to bring the product out) while holding it with your thumb and middle fingers. This will also guarantee a perfect coverage while still looking natural. 

- There is no need to wet the sponge unless you are using a thick foundation such as the ones used for theatrical purposes.

- Setting cream products with powder ensures your makeup looks flawless, stays longer and gives your skin a matte finish.

 

- For eyes, start by contouring and shaping the eyes with a creamy eye pencil. Start by assessing your natural shape and decide if you want to extend your eyes or make them look smaller. The aim is to get your eyes to resemble an almond shape which is the 'perfect' shape for makeup.

 

- It is important to use a creamy eye pencil formula to allow easy blending with a stiff, small angled brush. Always blend towards the inner part of the eyes. and correct any mistakes with a cotton bud.

 

 

 

- To set the pencil, you can opt for a dark colour for a more intense look or else, go for another colour. During our lesson, green and red were used for a contrasting, fashionable look.

 

- When highlighting brows, avoid shimmery shadows if you have prominent brows as they will over take the whole eye look. Use a light matte shade instead.

 

 

Marija, happy with her makeup :)

We decided to skip the lipstick application and try the look ourselves with different colour combinations. Jean was there every step of the way to guide us and help us with any problems or queries. During the demonstration we even had the opportunity to try and feel the products to see which ones we like and think work best for us. We were even each given a face chart to jot down the products we used. Here are pictures of some products we used:



Eva Garden Extreme Loose Powder Transparent



Eva Garden Creamy Concealers 606, 607 and 608

 



As you can tell, the makeup used was all Eva Garden of which I was very impressed and I have already included some products in my wish list to get when I run out of the current products I am using. It is a very professional line with a wide range of products and prices are comparable to middle of the range brands.


All of their products are mineral based and hypoallergenic and I was really glad I didn't break out over night! Even the Makeup Remover Tissues felt nice and didn't cause any stinging.

Last but not least, every time we go to the Biocare premises, they never let use leave empty-handed! Jean chose a nice nail polish for each of us, each in dark colours to complement winter's darker colour palette. I was given shade 696 which is a beautiful metallic mallard green. I am thinking of some nail design to use the polish in for my next manicure!

Overall, I really enjoyed my experience and I feel I learnt a lot of new tips and tricks for makeup application, so thank you Biocare Academy, Roberta and Jean for hosting us!
 

Review: Catrice Ultimate Moisture Fresh Skin Make-Up in 010 Light Beige

As I was sorting all the make-up products I got from the Essence and Catrice bloggers' event in the beginning of the month, I realised I didn't get many face products as opposed to the quantity of nail polishes and eyeshadows and other stuff I got.  I only chose two blushes myself and I got the new Catrice Ultimate Moisture Fresh Skin Make-up in 010 Light Beige and the Catrice Prime and Fine Highligther in 010 Fairy Dust in the Catrice goody bag.

Since I sorted my skin problem, I am trying to stick to products that I know for sure that they won't break me out or wreck havoc with my sensitive skin.  However, I was still intrigued by Catrice's new foundation and I was happy that I got one in my goody bag.  Moreover, the shade 010 Light Beige is the perfect shade for my skin tone.

The packaging is very sleek and light-weight, just like the actual product! And believe it or not, it was one of the factors that convinced me to try the foundation. Why? Because ever since I learnt that I will be going to Paris, I started wrecking my brain over which products to take with me because of the bulky packaging beauty products are sometimes supplied in. I thought that I'd give this foundation a go and if it works for me, I'll pack it and luckily for me, it worked! Also, I think the packaging makes the product look more expensive than it actually is (I believe it will retail around the €6 mark once it is available in September).

The tube holds 30ml of product and after you take off the twist off cap at the bottom, you just squeeze out the required amount of product through a tiny hole. Thereby, you can control the amount of foundation that comes out.  The only downside of the packaging is that you cannot see how much product you have left.

Now, on to the actual product. The texture of the foundation is very light-weight and consequently it doesn't feel heavy on the skin and when blended out it gives a nice, even tone. Moreover, it is easily absorbed. It dries to a semi-matt finish and lasts all day on my oily skin. Foundation is not something I use everyday but for the purpose of testing this out, I even wore it to work and got a ton of compliments on how fresh and natural the product looks (even after 12 hours in a full on a/c environment).  

Catrice Ultimate Moisture Fresh Skin Make-Up in 010 Light Beige

It provides medium coverage which I love (I tend to go for light-medium coverage foundations), it is oil-free and is therefore suitable for people with oily skin types and also has UV filters. Although it is oil free, this foundation deeply hydrating and this makes it suitable also for people with drier skin types. This foundation is dermatologically tested and is non-comedogenic.  In fact, it hasn't broke me out.

This foundation is available in 4 shades namely, 010 Light Beige, 020 Sand, 030 Honey & 040 Sun Beige with the first two having a pink under-tone and the latter two bearing a yellow under-tone. Judging by the colours, I don't think they are suitable for the very dark skin tones but they are aimed more at paler and medium skin tones.

To sum up, I totally recommend this foundation to anyone (provided they don't have very dark skin) wanting a nice foundation for everyday use that won't clog pores and feels nice and fresh till the end of the day.

Catrice Ultimate Moisture Fresh Skin Make-Up will be available in pharmacies in September 2012.

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Mid-Week Beauty Masterclass: How to Prevent Make-Up Melt-Down in Summer

Happy Wednesday lovelies :) This week's Beauty Masterclass will concentrate on various products I use to prevent my make-up from melting down in the summer heat.  In Malta, we get high humidity percentages all year round and our hybrid Mediterranean - Tropical climate doesn't help when it comes to make-up lasting all day so it is key to invest in some products that will take your make-up a few hours further to look fresh all day!  I will also include some tips on how to apply the products to make sure they really last well throughout the day.  I have changed my skin care products so an updated skin care routine will be coming up soon but in the meantime, here's a rundown of the products I have been using to make my make-up last:

A good moisturizer is key to help keep the skin hydrated and if you have oily/combination skin, it is important to keep the oiliness at bay.  I have been using La Roche Posay Effaclar M moisturizer which hydrates my skin and I have noticed that I do not get oily by midday and at the end of the day, I only have a little oil and no shine.

To further lessen oil production, I use e.l.f. Mineral Booster over the moisturizer to further absorb oil and perk up my complexion.  In summer I don't wear foundation but when I do, I use the NYX HD Foundation in Soft Beige and after applying moisturizer, I prime my skin with Inglot Under the Make-Up Base, stipple on the foundation with my Sigma F80, set it with e.l.f. Mineral Booster and finally stipple on some e.l.f. Studio Make-Up Mist & Set.  On an everyday basis, when I need just a little coverage, I use e.l.f. Tinted Moisturizer in Rosy Beige or the Lioele Triple the Solution BB Cream.  I like the pat both of these products with my fingers to ensure complete blending and then set them with the e.l.f. Mineral Booster which will also counteract the whiteness of the BB Cream.

So, these are basically the products that work for me! I hope you found this post useful and if you use the same products/techniques as I do as well as different ones, please share them in the comments :)