I always say that I'm going to put up empties post more often to save me from getting buried by a gazillion empty products, but it just doesn't happen. Oh well I guess I won't bother mention it anymore! Without any further delay here are the current empties..!
Simple Micellar Cleansing Water
My current favourite Micellar Water, unlike the Garnier Micellar Water (which I've reviewed quite a few times on the blog, run a search if you wanna read), it doesn't leave my skin feeling taut or dry nor does it leave a residue on my skin. This on the other hand leaves my skin feeling pretty normal, it just feels like water, it's really gentle. I wouldn't say this is super effective in removing make up as I find that there is always some make up left on my skin regardless of how much I use, I know this because my white flannels have shown traces of foundation even when I thought I removed it well. This doesn't bother me because I use micellar water to remove the bulk of my make up and always second cleanse, I'd say it removes 90% of my makeup (doesn't stop me from using it on nights when I can't be bothered to go to the sink though haha!). Currently approaching the end of my second bottle, love the big size and will always repurchase. They've come out with a Water Boost version which I'm really excited to try!
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gelee Milk Cleanser
This new line from Neutrogena had me really intrigued which I'm sure every other dehydrated skinned person was as well. I used this on a dry makeup-ed face as I found it worked better at dissolving makeup this way and then used a wet flannel to take it off. I must admit, it did leave my skin feeling supple and not stripped at all which was quite pleasant, I've even used this as a morning cleanse. It's not the most effective at removing make up but it wasn't half bad either, I'm curious to try the other cleanser in this line. Has a very fresh and cool scent, would possibly re-purchase.
Soap & Glory Peaches And Clean
I bought this once before ages ago but gave it away as I wasn't keen on cream cleansers, fast forward to now my dehydrated skin prefers cream cleansers so I wanted to give it another try. It's okay, not the most effective in removing makeup and works better at the sink with a wet flannel. This also needs a bit of a residue skin and leaves me feeling like I've still got make up on my skin, which I'm not keen on at all. I've tried other cream cleansers and balms that work a lot more effortlessly so I won't repurchase.
Bravura Purifying Calendula Toner
This is one of the three exfoliating toners that Bravura carry and probably my favourite. At 13% I really like how fresh and clean this leaves my skin feeling, ready and prepped for product absorption. With a ph of 3.8 I like to use this toner to lower my skins ph in preparation for stronger acid treatments or masks. From all the acid toners I've tried this one's my favourite so will definitely repurchase.
Bravura Revitalising Ginseng Toner
Reviewed many times on my blog already (run a blog search for an in depth review) with an acid level of 5%, this is meant to be a dupe for the infamous Pixi Glow Tonic, I do like this and this is a repurchase but there is something about it that I'm not too keen on, even though this is a weaker AHA compared to the Calendula Toner, this feels stronger and a little harsher on my skin. I don't know why to be honest, it may just be the zingy scent but I prefer the feel of the Calendula Toner on my skin, hence why I may not repurchase this Ginseng one.
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
I received this dinky sample in an order once and was keen to try it as I heard this was a decent gentle cleanser. I've used it up and I'm not thoroughly impressed, it's a bit meh to be honest, I don't have sensitive skin but I do like to use gentle cleansers so as not to strip my already dehydrated skin and damage it further. This is only best used as a morning cleanse which wasn't too bad I suppose but I've used other cleansers that work better for me. Won't repurchase.
Moisturisers, Oils and Balms
Serums & Treatments
Body Lotions & Perfumes
Crown Perfumes Classic Perfume Body Spray
This was a random body spray that I got from an Islamic store and I ended up really liking it, it lasts really really long and doesn't disappear like your typical Impulse body sprays, I find it's as strong and long-lasting as a perfume so it's well worth the money and very economic, this particular scent was a very feminine powdery musky scent that you can't go wrong with, not too strong and heady but definitely lingers. I probably would repurchase and try out the other scents from their line.
YSL Parisienne
A very unique scent in my opinion, carrying notes of damascus rose, violet, peony, cranberry, patchouli, vetiver, musk and sandalwood. It's quite a floral fragrance, a doable rose fragrance in my opinion, but not overbearing at all, I don't like highly floral fragrances and this wasn't too much at all, if you don't overdo it, I'd say it's quite a pretty but sophisticated scent, good scent for the office or even the evening out, probably more suited for women over their 30's, though obviously scent has no age, wear whatever tickles your fancy! I do like this scent but I don't think it's special enough for me to want to repurchase.
Nina by Nina Ricci
I love Nina Ricci fragrances, they are truly such pretty scents and this one's no exception, it's soft, but fresh, delicate yet a bit fruity, a little sweet, with enough musk to mute down the sweetness, it almost smells like a pleasant home and a bit more, if you get what I mean. For me this is definitely a casual day time scent and more suited for a younger audience, carrying notes of citrus, candied apples, praline, vanilla, sweet peony, moonflower, apple tree, white cedar, and blame musky notes you can tell this is a sweet and girly scent but honestly it's so much more than that. Will definitely repurchase and look into their other fragrances.
Makeup
Boots Time Delay Radiance Booster
Where do I begin with this one? I had owned this for a good while but never actually realised how brilliant it was and never gave it the chance really. Marketed as an intense hydration and glow booster, skincare/makeup hybrid, it's a lightweight peach coloured gel lotion consistency. I never got it to be honest, I never noticed the difference it made until I used it as a primer under my foundations. It seriously gave a new lease of life to my base products. I've used it under numerous bases, from tinted moisturisers to thick full coverage foundations and I got the same stellar results! It smoothens and perfects my skin without looking one bit unnatural. I really can't explain what it does, I feel with this one you have to see it in action to believe it. I used it under my Nars Tinted moisturiser once and the difference between wearing this underneath and without was beautiful, my skin just looked better, smoother, more healthy. It's not marketed as a pore filling or smoothing primer, but like I said, I've tried it under numerous bases and it simply makes the finish of them all look so much better. Please try it, it's usually on offer for £5, so it won't dent your wallet or anything! I have since repurchased!
MAC Face & Body Foundation in C3
I won't speak too much on this as I have a full review (here) make sure you have a read as it's proper love/hate relationship. A lightweight emollient foundation which provides no more than a light/medium coverage. I think it's a lovely product but I don't think I will repurchase as the cons of this put me off too much, I do think you need to have fairly good skin to enjoy this (which I don't). Also the colour C3 has a brilliant olive undertone but is best suited to someone more on the light medium side of olive and not so much medium tan with hyper-pigmentation like myself.
Urban Decay Naked Skin Foundation in 4.0
This was the foundation of 2016 for me! I looooved using this and can't believe I have actually emptied the bottle out, definite Holy Grail for sure! I also have not one but two reviews of this so I won't go on too much here. A super lightweight foundation that provides medium to medium full coverage. The finish is super natural on the skin but beware if you have flakies as I've seen reviews where people haven't agreed with the soft demi matte finish on their skin. I probably will repurchase, though saying that I'd want to get one of those Cover FX Custom drops to deepen it a touch as even though this was a brilliant brilliant olive shade it was slightly on the light side, probably more so now as I'm sure I'm a bit more tan!
Urban Decay Naked Skin Ultra Definition Loose Finishing Powder in Medium Light
Oh I did love using this! An underrated gem imo, this lightly coloured loose powder finished and set my makeup beautifully, I think it's got a lot of silicone in it because it leaves my skin looking super smooth and proper airbrushed. A little goes a long way, you seriously don't need to use a lot as it does it's job perfectly with just a light dusting, too much and it can catch on dry skin or texture, trust me I'm fussy with my powders and I've used up this whole pot! It controlled my oils long enough and kept my makeup in place, when used correctly it worked really well with my fussy combination dehydrated skin. They've recently come out with a colourless power called the Velvetiser which from reading the description sounds right up my alley!
MeMeMe Beat The Blues Liquid Highlighters
I have had these for so long now, way before the highlighter trend actually! I loved mixing these in with my foundations and it always gave my skin a lovely glow. I had the gold one and the pink one and enjoyed both but preferred the gold one for obvious reasons. I stopped using these and went for more matte looking skin for some reason so these got forgotten and pushed to the back of the draw. They have dried up and need to be binned now, they were decent liquid highlighters but there has since been newer releases which I'd probably go for now instead.
Tarteist Lash Paint Mascara
This came in a bonus mini pack I got some time ago, I think it was old because it was rather dry and flaked off my lashes once it dried. Otherwise I think it was okay, the formula was thick and matte and not too wet, it separated the lashes well and left my lashes really black. I couldn't say if the actual formula is like this as I've not tried a full size. Also it has quite a prickly plastic brush so if you ever have an itch on your waterline, this'll sure get rid of it haha! I don't really buy high end mascaras unless I've used and enjoyed a mini, so probably won't repurchase.
Benefit They're Real Push Up Liner
This was a brilliant idea but such a disappointment unfortunately, it's a gel liner in a plastic mechanical twist up pen. It has a rubber angled tip which you'd think help in achieving a smooth flexible line but it was all just a disaster. This was my sisters but she gave up trying to use it and gave it to me and I'm now binning it because I've given up too. Don't get me wrong, the formula is brilliant, it's super black, pigmented and seriously doesn't budge but the applicator is kinda messy, finicky and you don't get a crisp neat line and getting a thin line is near impossible. Also I think the gel dries up really quickly so we'd just get really messy bumpy lines that skipped and jumped on the thin eye lid skin. Sorry but no.
No7 Fanomenal Lashes Mascara
Actually a hand me down, this had an interesting plastic wand and a pretty decent formula, it separated and fanned out my lashes really nicely, perfect for everyday definition. It's a good everyday mascara, nothing special but I think No7 products are way too overpriced so will not repurchase.
Avon Brow Definer in Dark Brown
I thought this was an eyeliner but realised weeks after that it was in fact a brow definer. I used this as an eyeliner and it done me okay, probably won't repurchase as it's number 1, not meant for lining your eyes and number 2, not a modern long lasting waterproof formula.
There you go guys, we have finally reached the end of this empties post, I hope this was useful or helpful in anyway. Also I need to apologise for my disappearance and inactivity on the blogosphere, this specific post has taken me a few months to complete believe it or not and I've actually already accumulated more empties in this time (insert covering face emoji). I haven't been my self lately and have lost a little interest in blogging and beauty products, there have been many a times where I have actually dedicated some time and sat down to blog or even post on instagram but it never went any further. Once again I'm sorry and I do hope that I find the interest and zeal to get back into it again. Thank you for all your support and words of encouragement, it's always always appreciated.
Cleansers, Makeup Removers and Toners
Simple Micellar Cleansing Water
My current favourite Micellar Water, unlike the Garnier Micellar Water (which I've reviewed quite a few times on the blog, run a search if you wanna read), it doesn't leave my skin feeling taut or dry nor does it leave a residue on my skin. This on the other hand leaves my skin feeling pretty normal, it just feels like water, it's really gentle. I wouldn't say this is super effective in removing make up as I find that there is always some make up left on my skin regardless of how much I use, I know this because my white flannels have shown traces of foundation even when I thought I removed it well. This doesn't bother me because I use micellar water to remove the bulk of my make up and always second cleanse, I'd say it removes 90% of my makeup (doesn't stop me from using it on nights when I can't be bothered to go to the sink though haha!). Currently approaching the end of my second bottle, love the big size and will always repurchase. They've come out with a Water Boost version which I'm really excited to try!
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gelee Milk Cleanser
This new line from Neutrogena had me really intrigued which I'm sure every other dehydrated skinned person was as well. I used this on a dry makeup-ed face as I found it worked better at dissolving makeup this way and then used a wet flannel to take it off. I must admit, it did leave my skin feeling supple and not stripped at all which was quite pleasant, I've even used this as a morning cleanse. It's not the most effective at removing make up but it wasn't half bad either, I'm curious to try the other cleanser in this line. Has a very fresh and cool scent, would possibly re-purchase.
Soap & Glory Peaches And Clean
I bought this once before ages ago but gave it away as I wasn't keen on cream cleansers, fast forward to now my dehydrated skin prefers cream cleansers so I wanted to give it another try. It's okay, not the most effective in removing makeup and works better at the sink with a wet flannel. This also needs a bit of a residue skin and leaves me feeling like I've still got make up on my skin, which I'm not keen on at all. I've tried other cream cleansers and balms that work a lot more effortlessly so I won't repurchase.
Bravura Purifying Calendula Toner
This is one of the three exfoliating toners that Bravura carry and probably my favourite. At 13% I really like how fresh and clean this leaves my skin feeling, ready and prepped for product absorption. With a ph of 3.8 I like to use this toner to lower my skins ph in preparation for stronger acid treatments or masks. From all the acid toners I've tried this one's my favourite so will definitely repurchase.
Bravura Revitalising Ginseng Toner
Reviewed many times on my blog already (run a blog search for an in depth review) with an acid level of 5%, this is meant to be a dupe for the infamous Pixi Glow Tonic, I do like this and this is a repurchase but there is something about it that I'm not too keen on, even though this is a weaker AHA compared to the Calendula Toner, this feels stronger and a little harsher on my skin. I don't know why to be honest, it may just be the zingy scent but I prefer the feel of the Calendula Toner on my skin, hence why I may not repurchase this Ginseng one.
Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
I received this dinky sample in an order once and was keen to try it as I heard this was a decent gentle cleanser. I've used it up and I'm not thoroughly impressed, it's a bit meh to be honest, I don't have sensitive skin but I do like to use gentle cleansers so as not to strip my already dehydrated skin and damage it further. This is only best used as a morning cleanse which wasn't too bad I suppose but I've used other cleansers that work better for me. Won't repurchase.
Moisturisers, Oils and Balms
Bravura Azulene Moisturiser
One of the two non acidic moisturisers that Bravura carry and my personal favourite, I love the stunning blue glass packaging and the forget-me-not blue tint of the cream. Best suited for oily to combination skin, this moisturiser works really well on my skin, I find it nice and lightweight yet moisturising enough, the moisture level is perfect in summer months but also works well with a few drops of oil if I need more moisture. Love that I know what most of the ingredients are, will most likely repurchase but have cheaper and more easily attainable moisturisers.
Boots Soltan Sensitive Face Cream SPF50
Cheap and cheerful at £6 this cream has a rich, emollient thick texture which I could only use in the dead of winter, I think this is best for really dry skin, but at the same time I've grown accustomed to sunscreen that are really lightweight and really absorbent which this isn't. I wish they had a dry touch version of this sensitive formula, it's nice but I do prefer the Dry Touch version. Won't repurchase.
The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF) + HA
Cheaper and more cheerful than the latter, I was super duper excited with this products launch, it has an amazing inci list, including a myriad of ingredients needed to support the skins moisture and hydration health, a mix of emollients, skin communicating cells and antioxidants all for a few quid. This has a thick primer like consistency, it's not very emollient or hydrating but works excellently as a last step to your skincare routine to seal it all in, I'd say this is perfect for oily to combination skin as it leaves no greasiness on the skin, but can work equally well for all skin types if you have a good regime for your skin type.
B. Enriched Restorative Facial Oil
I love using facial oils and I would definitely include an oil of some sort in my list of dessert island products. Containing a mixture of various oils and emollients, this specific oil from Superdrug's premium skincare brand is targeted for those with elderly mature skin and has been a joy to use, reviewed here previously, this oil is lovely and nourishing, the added shea butter in this concoction moisturises my skin really well and leaves it feeling plump and supple. At £18 a bottle it's not cheap, so would suggest grabbing it when they do a half price deal. Would probably repurchase but really want to try some other oil mixes.
Pai Rose Hip Oil
I received this sample in the post, there was barely enough for 3 uses in the titchy tube, so I don't know why I'm reviewing this to be honest haha... no honestly I can't really say much because there wasn't enough to use it longterm and notice any differences, silly me for putting it in the empties bag and including it in the post! Errrmmm... what I can say is that it was a light oil with a slight smell, almost had the texture of a dry oil but a bit more nourishing... that's it really...sorry...how awkward...
Carmex Cherry Click Stick
Tube number gazillion. A definite holy grail desert Island product for me. I've tried a few other well reputed balms to see if I can move away from this, but nothing, literally NOTHING comes close to this, literally the ONLY balm that works to soothe and soften my forever dry lips. Will always repurchase.
Maybelline Color Bloom Colour Changing Lip Balm in Pink Blossom
My lips are quite grey toned, pale and discoloured naturally so I tend to look really ill and zombie-fied if I haven't got any colour on them (brown girl problems)! I've always been interested in tinted lip balms but it's actually hard to find one that compliments and works with asian skin tones and discoloured lips. This colour changing one from Maybelline starts off as a clear balm but leaves a pretty pink stain on the lips, so if you were to wipe the balm off there'd still be a stain left which I quite like for night time as it doesn't stain my pillows and it's actually a decent colour on me. I've only ever found it online, I get mine from eBay and it comes from India, they do a peach shade called Peach Blossom which I've just recently purchased but I do prefer the Pink Blossom shade.
Superdrug's Simply Pure Hydrating Serum
This cheap and cheerful serum raved about by Sali Hughes reviewed previously here by me was a lovely affordable day time serum, well absorbing and including a good blend of skin benefitting ingredients. The formula was actually really nice to use but after using this regularly I found it done little to nothing for me unfortunately. Won't be repurchasing though there is word going round the blogosphere that they are adding more products to the line, at that price point it's very exciting!
Pestle & Mortar Pure Hyaluronic Acid (reviewed here)
This was an amazing addition to my routine, my dehydrated skin has been needing a product like this for yonks and I'm glad it was this one. After using this regularly day and night before my moisturiser I noticed the fine lines on my face had softened significantly, my skin now a little plumper had also seemed to have normalised and wasn't as dehydrated or dry anymore, it was pretty amazing. I finished it a while ago and am now using The Ordinary's rendition of Hyaluronic Acid which I do like but I can tell you it's just not the same. I can tell the difference between the two and my skin definitely liked the Pestle & Mortar one, which is kinda annoying as it's a lot more expensive than The Ordinary one. Will probably repurchase if I can find a good deal.
The Ordinary Buffet Serum and Alpha Arbutin Serum
These two affordable serums from The Ordinary both have really good textures, they are super absorbent, lightweight and don't interfere with the rest of your skincare. The Buffet is a multi peptide serum which provides some anti ageing benefits and surface hydration and the Alpha Arbutin is for pigmentation, apparently the skin converts it into Hydroquinone on the skin. With both of these products I didn't really see any significant differences. I used them alongside the Advanced Retinoid (AR) which my skin absolutely loved, but I did use them one after the other when one had finished so that I could see any differences between the two. The thing is I used the Buffet first with the AR and my skin was amazing at that time, so I don't know it it was the combination or just the AR on it's own. With the Alpha Arbutin I noticed next to no difference on my skin regarding pigmentation, now I don't know if it's one of those things where you have to use it longterm to see any change. Thing is I loved the formulas and the extra hydration and suppleness it'd provide my skin so for that reason I probably would repurchase both of them since they're so dirt cheap.
Bravura 10% Glycolic Acid Peel
I've had this for so long so it's about time that it's finished now. One of the three cheap yet effective chemical exfoliants Bravura provide. It worked well to slough off any dead skin and left my skin soft, smooth and supple. I have a soft spot for Bravura as it was one of the first brands I used for chemical exfoliants, I felt like it was a big step for a small girl haha! This worked better for me when I used it after acid toning, without acid toning it would have little to no affect, so if you get this I recommend acid toning prior to use. I probably wouldn't repurchase as The Ordinary do a peel for a little cheaper and it's just as effective.
Champneys Citrus Blush Enlivening Body Lotion
I got this bottle of lotion free when Boots where doing some promotional offer where if you spend over £50 you get a selection of beauty products. This was a lightweight lotion, had a pleasant sweet lemon and cardamom scent. But since I have ridiculously dry skin I tend to avoid these type lotions and stick to my trusty Garnier Body Repair one that I've reviewed a million times before as nothing else seems to work on me, but it was nice to change it up a little. I probably won't repurchase.
This was a random body spray that I got from an Islamic store and I ended up really liking it, it lasts really really long and doesn't disappear like your typical Impulse body sprays, I find it's as strong and long-lasting as a perfume so it's well worth the money and very economic, this particular scent was a very feminine powdery musky scent that you can't go wrong with, not too strong and heady but definitely lingers. I probably would repurchase and try out the other scents from their line.
YSL Parisienne
A very unique scent in my opinion, carrying notes of damascus rose, violet, peony, cranberry, patchouli, vetiver, musk and sandalwood. It's quite a floral fragrance, a doable rose fragrance in my opinion, but not overbearing at all, I don't like highly floral fragrances and this wasn't too much at all, if you don't overdo it, I'd say it's quite a pretty but sophisticated scent, good scent for the office or even the evening out, probably more suited for women over their 30's, though obviously scent has no age, wear whatever tickles your fancy! I do like this scent but I don't think it's special enough for me to want to repurchase.
Nina by Nina Ricci
I love Nina Ricci fragrances, they are truly such pretty scents and this one's no exception, it's soft, but fresh, delicate yet a bit fruity, a little sweet, with enough musk to mute down the sweetness, it almost smells like a pleasant home and a bit more, if you get what I mean. For me this is definitely a casual day time scent and more suited for a younger audience, carrying notes of citrus, candied apples, praline, vanilla, sweet peony, moonflower, apple tree, white cedar, and blame musky notes you can tell this is a sweet and girly scent but honestly it's so much more than that. Will definitely repurchase and look into their other fragrances.
Makeup
Boots Time Delay Radiance Booster
Where do I begin with this one? I had owned this for a good while but never actually realised how brilliant it was and never gave it the chance really. Marketed as an intense hydration and glow booster, skincare/makeup hybrid, it's a lightweight peach coloured gel lotion consistency. I never got it to be honest, I never noticed the difference it made until I used it as a primer under my foundations. It seriously gave a new lease of life to my base products. I've used it under numerous bases, from tinted moisturisers to thick full coverage foundations and I got the same stellar results! It smoothens and perfects my skin without looking one bit unnatural. I really can't explain what it does, I feel with this one you have to see it in action to believe it. I used it under my Nars Tinted moisturiser once and the difference between wearing this underneath and without was beautiful, my skin just looked better, smoother, more healthy. It's not marketed as a pore filling or smoothing primer, but like I said, I've tried it under numerous bases and it simply makes the finish of them all look so much better. Please try it, it's usually on offer for £5, so it won't dent your wallet or anything! I have since repurchased!
MAC Face & Body Foundation in C3
I won't speak too much on this as I have a full review (here) make sure you have a read as it's proper love/hate relationship. A lightweight emollient foundation which provides no more than a light/medium coverage. I think it's a lovely product but I don't think I will repurchase as the cons of this put me off too much, I do think you need to have fairly good skin to enjoy this (which I don't). Also the colour C3 has a brilliant olive undertone but is best suited to someone more on the light medium side of olive and not so much medium tan with hyper-pigmentation like myself.
Urban Decay Naked Skin Foundation in 4.0
This was the foundation of 2016 for me! I looooved using this and can't believe I have actually emptied the bottle out, definite Holy Grail for sure! I also have not one but two reviews of this so I won't go on too much here. A super lightweight foundation that provides medium to medium full coverage. The finish is super natural on the skin but beware if you have flakies as I've seen reviews where people haven't agreed with the soft demi matte finish on their skin. I probably will repurchase, though saying that I'd want to get one of those Cover FX Custom drops to deepen it a touch as even though this was a brilliant brilliant olive shade it was slightly on the light side, probably more so now as I'm sure I'm a bit more tan!
Urban Decay Naked Skin Ultra Definition Loose Finishing Powder in Medium Light
Oh I did love using this! An underrated gem imo, this lightly coloured loose powder finished and set my makeup beautifully, I think it's got a lot of silicone in it because it leaves my skin looking super smooth and proper airbrushed. A little goes a long way, you seriously don't need to use a lot as it does it's job perfectly with just a light dusting, too much and it can catch on dry skin or texture, trust me I'm fussy with my powders and I've used up this whole pot! It controlled my oils long enough and kept my makeup in place, when used correctly it worked really well with my fussy combination dehydrated skin. They've recently come out with a colourless power called the Velvetiser which from reading the description sounds right up my alley!
MeMeMe Beat The Blues Liquid Highlighters
I have had these for so long now, way before the highlighter trend actually! I loved mixing these in with my foundations and it always gave my skin a lovely glow. I had the gold one and the pink one and enjoyed both but preferred the gold one for obvious reasons. I stopped using these and went for more matte looking skin for some reason so these got forgotten and pushed to the back of the draw. They have dried up and need to be binned now, they were decent liquid highlighters but there has since been newer releases which I'd probably go for now instead.
Tarteist Lash Paint Mascara
This came in a bonus mini pack I got some time ago, I think it was old because it was rather dry and flaked off my lashes once it dried. Otherwise I think it was okay, the formula was thick and matte and not too wet, it separated the lashes well and left my lashes really black. I couldn't say if the actual formula is like this as I've not tried a full size. Also it has quite a prickly plastic brush so if you ever have an itch on your waterline, this'll sure get rid of it haha! I don't really buy high end mascaras unless I've used and enjoyed a mini, so probably won't repurchase.
Benefit They're Real Push Up Liner
This was a brilliant idea but such a disappointment unfortunately, it's a gel liner in a plastic mechanical twist up pen. It has a rubber angled tip which you'd think help in achieving a smooth flexible line but it was all just a disaster. This was my sisters but she gave up trying to use it and gave it to me and I'm now binning it because I've given up too. Don't get me wrong, the formula is brilliant, it's super black, pigmented and seriously doesn't budge but the applicator is kinda messy, finicky and you don't get a crisp neat line and getting a thin line is near impossible. Also I think the gel dries up really quickly so we'd just get really messy bumpy lines that skipped and jumped on the thin eye lid skin. Sorry but no.
No7 Fanomenal Lashes Mascara
Actually a hand me down, this had an interesting plastic wand and a pretty decent formula, it separated and fanned out my lashes really nicely, perfect for everyday definition. It's a good everyday mascara, nothing special but I think No7 products are way too overpriced so will not repurchase.
Avon Brow Definer in Dark Brown
I thought this was an eyeliner but realised weeks after that it was in fact a brow definer. I used this as an eyeliner and it done me okay, probably won't repurchase as it's number 1, not meant for lining your eyes and number 2, not a modern long lasting waterproof formula.
There you go guys, we have finally reached the end of this empties post, I hope this was useful or helpful in anyway. Also I need to apologise for my disappearance and inactivity on the blogosphere, this specific post has taken me a few months to complete believe it or not and I've actually already accumulated more empties in this time (insert covering face emoji). I haven't been my self lately and have lost a little interest in blogging and beauty products, there have been many a times where I have actually dedicated some time and sat down to blog or even post on instagram but it never went any further. Once again I'm sorry and I do hope that I find the interest and zeal to get back into it again. Thank you for all your support and words of encouragement, it's always always appreciated.
I'll be perfectly honest and say that my hair is probably the least cared for when it comes to my beauty grooming and treatments. Luckily, I have been blessed with fairly healthy, straight and silky hair and it doesn't need much if any attention at all. I do feel a little guilty sometimes though and let it soak overnight with some Argan Oil or Almond Oil once in a blue moon, but all I really do on a regular basis is wash it every three days, let it air dry and keep it in a bun until I have to wash it again. I also trim and dye my hair 3-4 times a year and use a at home box dye. The only issues I can claim to have is greasy roots and some hair loss which is probably hormonal and stress related other than that Alhumdulillah my hair is pretty healthy and hassle free.
Around 2 months ago when it was time for me to colour my hair again, instead of using my usual hair dye; (the Soft Sheen Carson Dark & Lovely in either Brown Sugar or Brown Cinnamon), I decided to change it up a little and tried a different brand of hair dye and used the Schwarzkopf LIVE Intense Colour + Lift in Vibrant Espresso. The colour was a lovely change and the tones made my hair look extra vibrant and shiny but it left my hair feeling awfully dry and brittle which I've never had to deal with with my Dark & Lovely hair dyes. It was very worrisome as I thought I had badly damaged my hair since I've never experienced such dryness or weakness in my hair before (it was probably my own doing as I left the dye a lot longer than what was specified -rebel me!).
It was only a week after that when I was approached by Reem of Rematural Organic Beauty to try out some of her organic hair care products in exchange for my honest review. This was a proper coincidence as that was the most perfect time if any for me to try out hair pampering products as my hair was definitely in dire need of some tlc.
About the brand :
Rematural Organic Beauty is an independent company, specialising in creating natural, pure and effective botanical products specifically designed for hair and skin care. Comprised of certified organic ingredients sourced from sustainable suppliers from around the world, these extraordinary products embody the true power of nature in its purest form.
All our botanical products are expertly formulated and produced in small batches to ensure optimum freshness.
Founded by Reem Kamal, MD. with passion for natural and organic products since childhood and years of experience in beauty research and formulation.
“Rematural is the culmination of a lifelong passion and a vision for an entire line of products” R.Kamal
Our Philosophy
Rematural embodies a philosophy with nature as its cornerstone. The belief that Nurture is Nature, and the power of nature overflows our need to achieve maximum results.
We pride ourselves on our effective and luxury pure botanical products. All our products are free from synthetic fragrance, colourants, mineral oil, silicons, sodium lauryl sulphates, parabens, petroleum, GMO, PEG’s, TEA and other harsh chemicals.
Sustainable Sourcing
Rematural is dedicated to responsible sourcing of our ingredients, we are passionate and devoted to obtaining the highest quality of organic and botanical ingredients from sustainable and ethical suppliers, reviewing ethics and organic practices. Find out more about our ingredients policy
We Love Green
Our strong ethic pulse is not only reflected through our sustainable sourcing practice but how we carefully choose our products packaging to maintain and preserve the quality of products yet support to keep a clean environment by recycling. All our products are packed in recyclable and Eco-friendly material and we use recyclable packaging for our deliveries. See our packaging policy
No Animal Testing
Rematural is against animal testing and none of our ingredients or products are animal tested.
Our Mission
To enhance our customers’ well-being naturally by providing the highest quality of luxury hair and skin care, handcrafted fresh and to perfection, in small batches. We are passionate about providing natural and organic products and empowering our customers with healthy and natural product choices.
My experiences and review
I was sent three products to try, the Hair Treatment Oil for Strength and Growth, the Hair Elixir Nourishing Dry Oil and the Hair Butter for Ultimate Moisture. Before I commence my review can I just mention how absolutely STUNNING the packaging is for all of the products, they have most certainly brightened up my vanity and I'm always mesmerised when I see them.
Inspired by exotic oils used in ancient beauty rituals, a luxurious hair treatment oil that will revive your hair to its virgin divine state.
This potent botanical blend of 13 superior oils have been carefully formulated using the purest and finest ingredients, combining a variety of nourishing and strengthening organic and pure oils to address hair issues, from root to tip.
The hair treatment oil is a nutritive and effective formula purely devoted to making your hair softer and revived with a ravishing shine, whilst working on follicles at a cellular level to increase hair cell activity, reconstruct, protect and hydrate for an ultimate hair growth.
This charming blend, potent in anti-oxidants, vitamins and Omegas 3,6,7,9 beholds Sea Buckthorn Berry Oil and Camellia Oil to rejuvenate and strengthen, whilst enriched Meadowfoam Oil and Moringa Oil release their nourishing vitamins and Oleic acid to penetrate deep into the hair shaft for a luscious gleam.
Leaving unique Neem oil and wealthy Indian Gooseberry Oil to target scalp and follicle health, along with Rosemary, Henna and Cedarwood for a growth boost.
Not to forget moisturising Extra Virgin Coconut oil, powerful Castor Oil and regenerating Jojoba oil.
Housed in a glass black bottle with a gorgeous contrast of colourful flowers, the Hair Treatment Oil is a thick, rich amber coloured liquid and is dispensed via a pipette. When opening you'll first notice the distinctive earthy, herbally smell which I think is the mixture of Neem Oil and some others, I'm not really keen on the smell to be honest but since it's a treatment oil meant to be used before washing the hair I'm happy to use it and it's the benefits we're after so it's all good. You have the option of leaving it in the hair for 2-3 hours or overnight, I've been using this twice a week and prefer to leave it in overnight for optimum absorbency and efficacy.
The first time I used this I made sure to apply it to my whole scalp as well as coat every strand of hair, but I think this was way too much for me (I have a lot of hair) as even after washing with shampoo twice I couldn't get rid of the distinctive smell, the smell was also on my pillowcase even though I used a towel over it. What I do now is apply it to my scalp only and massage it in with my fingers and then lightly go through the length of my hair with whatever's left on my fingers. After using it only the once, it significantly reduced the dryness my hair was experiencing because of the Schwarpzkopf hair dye. Now after almost 2 months of regular use my hair has practically gone back to it's usual healthy, silky condition.
Also just last week I was brushing my hair and realised that my hair could do with a trim which really surprised me as I had only trimmed my hair in mid-May when I coloured my hair (I usually trim my hair before colouring). My sister had also noticed how quickly my roots had grown since I coloured it, which is crazy because my hair grows pretty fast on it's own anyway (around 1/2 an inch a month). I'm pretty sure it's grown 2 inches since my last trim and it's only been a month and a half. I think this'll be brilliant for anyone wanting to replenish their hairs' health and improve sluggish hair growth.
A lavish Hair Elixir that brings together four of the rarest and richest wonders from around the world.
This mystical blend of four breeze-light, exceptionally rich and pure formula will be absorbed instantly into the hair shaft to hydrate and soften the cuticles without leaving any greasy residue, delivering vibrant, hydrated, protected and incredibly soft healthy hair.
Combining Organic Argan Oil, Kalahari Oil, Moringa Oil and Virgin Marula Oil, this Elixir will work to restore damaged hair and promote a healthy scalp.
Heavenly scented with warm tones of Jasmine and Lavender.
Probably my favourite and most used product from the set, the Hair Elixir comes in a bright yellow glass bottle with the same beautiful floral pattern and a pipette dispenser. Including a blend of Organic Argan, Virgin Marula, Kalahari and Moringa Oil and some essential oils it smells a lot nicer than the Hair Treatment Oil, which is to be expected as this is a leave on treatment not meant for washing out, it has a pleasant fresh, citrusy zingy scent. It's also a lot lighter in texture and consistency than the Treatment Oil which I find most agreeable with my hair.
I mainly use this after washing my hair when it's 80% dry to ease combing and to add some extra conditioning and softness to my lengths. Even though this is a dry oil I apply only 1 drop as my hair strands are quite fine and become saturated with oil easily, I put a drop in my palm and rub both hands together to spread the oil on my hands and then run it through the lengths of my hair. I've used 2 drops before and it's a bit much for my hair. I also use this for detangling my hair and use as much as needed to loosen the knots. I also really enjoy using this on my cuticles and hands when they are feeling dry, the oil relieves the dryness instantly and absorbs wonderfully.
Considering how often I use this I've got tons and tons of product left still, a little bit goes such a long way so this product is going to last ages! Alongside the Treatment Oil I feel like both products have helped with restoring my hair to its usual health, the Hair Treatment Oil has helped with growth and the Hair Elixir has softened my hair and made it stronger.
A lush and smooth intensively moisturising hair butter for soft, smooth and glossy hair. Enriched with a supreme botanical blend to nourish and strengthen the hair shaft whilst promoting growth and retention. This moisturising hair butter formula will penetrate deep into the hair shafts for absolute nourishment and invigoration to the hair strands.
Formulated with supreme Avocado and Brazilian Butters, known for their magnificent moisturisation and nutritional properties, blended swiftly with supercilious Monoi De Tahiti Tiare, Wheatgerm and Jojoba oils.
Delightfully scented with the sensual flowers of the Tahitian Gardenia, Lavender and Geranium.
I was really excited to try this one as the name Hair Butter just sounds intensely rich and moisturising and the product is exactly that consisting of Avocado Butter, Brazilian Butter, Virgin Coconut, Mafura Butter and a myriad of other ingredients! It comes in a lovely black plastic jar with a helpful separate internal cover to prevent leakages. The texture and colour is that of ghee (clarified butter), it's a pale yellow, solid buttery emulsion which melts with body temperature. When I received the products my tub was solid but because of the heatwave we had here in the last few weeks it has melted into an oil (just like ghee). This has a sweet lemon sherbet fragrance and is really refreshing and pleasant to use.
I've used this a few times and find it a little too rich for my hair, I find I need to use this very very sparingly or else it weighs down my hair or I just use it as an overnight treatment. In fact my other half has nabbed this off me, he has wavy hair that is prone to frizziness and enjoys using hair butters and creams to help tame his unruly hair. So technically this is his review haha, he's been using the Hair Butter for the past few weeks now and said that it definitely controls the frizz and leaves his hair feeling very soft, he also uses it on his beard hair and it helps to soften it somewhat and keep it in place. This tub was filled to the brim so you can see how much he's used!
What I've noticed from both of our experiences is that his hair being a little more drier seems to handle oils and creams better, he is able to use a lot more product than I can and it absorbs a lot better than mine and doesn't get weighed down as quickly, whereas my hair gets greasy and saturated with product really quickly and turns into a clump of oily hair. From this comparison the Hair Butter is definitely suited for those with dry and frizzy hair, if you have thick, coarse and dry hair I think you will love this, it's intensely moisturising!
These products have been an absolute treat for my hair and have thankfully nursed my hair back into it's normal state, it's most certainly made me want to pamper my hair a lot more now. Thank you to Reem for sending these gems my way, I definitely recommend them if you're looking for some quality products to treat your tresses and I think these would also make fabulous gifts with the beautiful packaging.
Check out Rematural on their Facebook account here and their Instagram page here and also be sure to read their blog here which provides more detail on the products as well as the ingredients used and their benefits. As always I hope you enjoyed this review and found it helpful.
*These products were sent to me for review purposes, please read my disclaimer for more information.
I've used this a few times and find it a little too rich for my hair, I find I need to use this very very sparingly or else it weighs down my hair or I just use it as an overnight treatment. In fact my other half has nabbed this off me, he has wavy hair that is prone to frizziness and enjoys using hair butters and creams to help tame his unruly hair. So technically this is his review haha, he's been using the Hair Butter for the past few weeks now and said that it definitely controls the frizz and leaves his hair feeling very soft, he also uses it on his beard hair and it helps to soften it somewhat and keep it in place. This tub was filled to the brim so you can see how much he's used!
What I've noticed from both of our experiences is that his hair being a little more drier seems to handle oils and creams better, he is able to use a lot more product than I can and it absorbs a lot better than mine and doesn't get weighed down as quickly, whereas my hair gets greasy and saturated with product really quickly and turns into a clump of oily hair. From this comparison the Hair Butter is definitely suited for those with dry and frizzy hair, if you have thick, coarse and dry hair I think you will love this, it's intensely moisturising!
These products have been an absolute treat for my hair and have thankfully nursed my hair back into it's normal state, it's most certainly made me want to pamper my hair a lot more now. Thank you to Reem for sending these gems my way, I definitely recommend them if you're looking for some quality products to treat your tresses and I think these would also make fabulous gifts with the beautiful packaging.
Check out Rematural on their Facebook account here and their Instagram page here and also be sure to read their blog here which provides more detail on the products as well as the ingredients used and their benefits. As always I hope you enjoyed this review and found it helpful.
*These products were sent to me for review purposes, please read my disclaimer for more information.
Hello all! I actually don't know how to start this review, it's been so long since I've blogged I'm feeling a little out of sorts. So MAC had launched the Next To Nothing Face Colour (let's call it NTN for this review) a little while ago and after reading the specs I really wanted to try it. Lightweight, sheer, skin perfecting, skin smoothing and a barely there finish! What's not to like? I've tested it out and played about with it, here are my thoughts...
What MAC say:
An ultra balmy fluid infused with nourishing ingredients and opalescent microspheres for a youthful glow that looks lit from within. This sheer tinted cream can be used under or over foundation, or to bring a translucent luminosity to skin. The cushiony, smoothing texture glides over skin, diminishing the look of imperfections and fine lines, while moisturizing and protecting skin. Skin looks immediately retouched!
• Provides hydration
• Provides instant radiance
• Features a comfortable, creamy formula
• Nourishes skin
• Immediately improves the look of fine lines and wrinkles
• Visibly refines skin texture
• Smoothes and softens skin
• Oil-free
• For all skin types
Usage
• May be used under or over foundation, or worn alone on skin.
• Pump onto fingers.
• Apply directly to skin using fingers or brush.
Shade & Oxidisation
I managed to get a few samples in the shades Medium Plus, Medium Dark and Medium Deep and have tested them all. I was really hoping MAC would make these wearable shades for me but part of me just knew that the shades wouldn't be olive or yellow enough. I was right, unfortunately even though these are sheer tints none of these shades work for me, the undertones are so warm and peachy and make my complexion look orange, even the medium plus surprisingly. It really doesn't work for me but I don't understand who it would work for because it gives my skin a strange orange tint. It's a pity because I really like the product and concept itself. I haven't noticed any major oxidising as it is a sheer product but I feel it deepens a little more orange. Even when I've tried it on top of another base, it alters the shade a bit and I really don't need that, it's hard enough finding base shades that work for me so I don't need to make it more difficult.
I've taken pictures of swatches alongside my most yellowest foundation Nars ADLW Stromboli in various lighting so you can get a better view and understanding of the shades. In the swatches you can see how dewy and glossy the formula is.
I've taken pictures of swatches alongside my most yellowest foundation Nars ADLW Stromboli in various lighting so you can get a better view and understanding of the shades. In the swatches you can see how dewy and glossy the formula is.
Texture
This has an interesting uber smooth gel texture, it's really light, it's balmy and has a whipped elasticy consistency. The texture is almost a mix of primer, lotion and oil. I would say this texture and formula is best for those with dry dehydrated skin, it's emollient, hydrating and comforting and gives the skin a plump and hydrated feel. I reckon if you have oily skin this will be too emollient for you and will most probably make you feel and look greasy. Again this has used similar technology as the Charlotte Tilbury Magic Foundation, the Urban Decay One & Done, the Estee Lauder Double Wear Nude and the Clinique Beyond Perfecting foundation. This formula seems to be getting more and more common, perhaps because it's so skin perfecting and lightweight but keeping the finish so skin like and natural. Compared to the others this offers the most lightest of coverage and is the most emollient and hydrating.
I've used both a brush and a sponge to apply and don't mind either. The sponge I find is not only faster to blend but it gives a smoother poreless finish but does absorb product and sheer it out a little which isn't ideal because this product is quite sheer already, I tend to use a sponge when I want to apply the NTN all over my face and am not too worried about over consumption of product. I like to use a brush when I want to apply a tiny amount for proper no makeup / invisible looking makeup and want to use the NTN sparingly and strategically because the brush doesn't absorb as much product as a sponge, both work fine it just depends how you want to use it. If you want to use it on its own then I suggest you use either a brush or a sponge but if you want to use it over foundation like MAC have suggested then I recommend a sponge as it doesn't disrupt the makeup underneath and gives a smoother finish than a brush.
Finish & Feel
On bare skin the NTN feels lightweight and hydrating like a light emollient moisturiser. It's a little bit tacky but does set and dry a little after a while. It does have an emollience to it which is why I think this'll be more suited to a drier skin type. But this emollience is more detectable when you use this atop of another product. I've used this on top of my Nars ADLW Foundation and it makes it feel obvious that I have something on my skin when the Nars ADLW is quite lightweight, it's the emollience that gives it away. Which is why I wouldn't want to use it as a base top coat, it's lovely and lightweight on it's own.
With regards to finish this has a smoothing, dewy, poreless, plump, glowy finish on the skin. I love this aspect to it hence why I'm a little annoyed about the shade issues, I love me a glowy skin smoothing base. On it's own it emits a nice amount of dew to the skin and I'd only powder strategically. On top of a matte foundation it does add some luminosity and glow but I'd only want to apply it to the parts of my face where I want to look glowy and not everywhere. I think this would actually make for a nice tinted moisturiser or to use in place of your moisturiser, it's definitely hydrating enough.
Coverage & Build-ability
The NTN offers light barely there coverage to the skin, it's like a proper skin tint. It's called Next To Nothing and correctly so, it can get away with being completely undetectable on the skin so if you like that kind of product I think you will really like this. It simply perfects the skin, takes down redness and evens it out ever so slightly whilst emitting a glow. I reckon if you have fabulous skin with not much to cover and you're a little on the drier side, this'll be your best friend. Anyone with problem skin looking for coverage will find no use for it unless you wanted to use it as a primer or wouldn't mind layering it as a dewy top coat.
I find building the NTN increases the coverage a teensy but it does increase the dew too and you can end up looking a bit greasy if you over do it. I would say be careful of applying this over a foundation because I found it disrupted my makeup underneath and made me look a little cakey and patchy. For a product that is so undetectable and skin perfecting it really isn't worth it for me, I personally think one layer of this on the skin is the best way to get the most of this product. I would also use this as a hydrating primer, it's perfect for those that need a little extra hydration and smoothing under their bases.
Longevity
In terms of longevity I find the NTN does have a setting factor where it sort of settles itself on to the skin, but I think you can't really judge this product for longevity as it's such a sheer barely there product if you get what I mean. I would set the 'dew' with a light dusting of powder and that too strategically on the face just to keep the natural luminosity of the product. I think if you have oily skin this'll just melt off your skin after a while though perhaps if you were to set it with a powder then it'll obviously last longer. Equally if you don't have oily skin I would recommend using a powder like perhaps the powder that they released with it just to keep the synchronicity of the products in that line.
Overall Thoughts
I love the concept and the formula, it's perfect for the days when you want to apply something light and barely visible to perfect the skin a little. MAC have described it exactly how it performs. People with dry skin or looking for some glow will really appreciate this formula. I do wish they had a yellow shade to offer, I actually wouldn't mind an uncoloured version either as the smooth, plump and glowy finish is lovely on it's own, hence why I like it as a primer! I personally don't see the benefit of using this on top of another product because it doesn't really work for me but I suppose if you have a matte base that you like and wanted to add some radiance and glow then this would be the product, that's if you don't mind layering, I would just buy a foundation that does all of that in one to be honest instead of layering. I think this is a nice addition to MAC's lineup of base products, it's the better version of Face & Body for me as I much prefer the NTN's finish, it's just a pity that the shades don't work for me. That's it folks that's all I have to say about the Next To Nothing, as always I hope you found this review helpful.
Pros
- Exactly as MAC have described it to be
- Hydrating
- Skin smoothing
- Dewy finish
- Lightweight
- Very natural
- Best for drier skins
Cons
- Colours are too warm and orange
- Not ideal for oily skin types
- Not ideal for problem skin that need coverage
- Not super long lasting (but not really meant to be..?)
I've used both a brush and a sponge to apply and don't mind either. The sponge I find is not only faster to blend but it gives a smoother poreless finish but does absorb product and sheer it out a little which isn't ideal because this product is quite sheer already, I tend to use a sponge when I want to apply the NTN all over my face and am not too worried about over consumption of product. I like to use a brush when I want to apply a tiny amount for proper no makeup / invisible looking makeup and want to use the NTN sparingly and strategically because the brush doesn't absorb as much product as a sponge, both work fine it just depends how you want to use it. If you want to use it on its own then I suggest you use either a brush or a sponge but if you want to use it over foundation like MAC have suggested then I recommend a sponge as it doesn't disrupt the makeup underneath and gives a smoother finish than a brush.
Finish & Feel
On bare skin the NTN feels lightweight and hydrating like a light emollient moisturiser. It's a little bit tacky but does set and dry a little after a while. It does have an emollience to it which is why I think this'll be more suited to a drier skin type. But this emollience is more detectable when you use this atop of another product. I've used this on top of my Nars ADLW Foundation and it makes it feel obvious that I have something on my skin when the Nars ADLW is quite lightweight, it's the emollience that gives it away. Which is why I wouldn't want to use it as a base top coat, it's lovely and lightweight on it's own.
With regards to finish this has a smoothing, dewy, poreless, plump, glowy finish on the skin. I love this aspect to it hence why I'm a little annoyed about the shade issues, I love me a glowy skin smoothing base. On it's own it emits a nice amount of dew to the skin and I'd only powder strategically. On top of a matte foundation it does add some luminosity and glow but I'd only want to apply it to the parts of my face where I want to look glowy and not everywhere. I think this would actually make for a nice tinted moisturiser or to use in place of your moisturiser, it's definitely hydrating enough.
Coverage & Build-ability
The NTN offers light barely there coverage to the skin, it's like a proper skin tint. It's called Next To Nothing and correctly so, it can get away with being completely undetectable on the skin so if you like that kind of product I think you will really like this. It simply perfects the skin, takes down redness and evens it out ever so slightly whilst emitting a glow. I reckon if you have fabulous skin with not much to cover and you're a little on the drier side, this'll be your best friend. Anyone with problem skin looking for coverage will find no use for it unless you wanted to use it as a primer or wouldn't mind layering it as a dewy top coat.
I find building the NTN increases the coverage a teensy but it does increase the dew too and you can end up looking a bit greasy if you over do it. I would say be careful of applying this over a foundation because I found it disrupted my makeup underneath and made me look a little cakey and patchy. For a product that is so undetectable and skin perfecting it really isn't worth it for me, I personally think one layer of this on the skin is the best way to get the most of this product. I would also use this as a hydrating primer, it's perfect for those that need a little extra hydration and smoothing under their bases.
Longevity
In terms of longevity I find the NTN does have a setting factor where it sort of settles itself on to the skin, but I think you can't really judge this product for longevity as it's such a sheer barely there product if you get what I mean. I would set the 'dew' with a light dusting of powder and that too strategically on the face just to keep the natural luminosity of the product. I think if you have oily skin this'll just melt off your skin after a while though perhaps if you were to set it with a powder then it'll obviously last longer. Equally if you don't have oily skin I would recommend using a powder like perhaps the powder that they released with it just to keep the synchronicity of the products in that line.
Overall Thoughts
I love the concept and the formula, it's perfect for the days when you want to apply something light and barely visible to perfect the skin a little. MAC have described it exactly how it performs. People with dry skin or looking for some glow will really appreciate this formula. I do wish they had a yellow shade to offer, I actually wouldn't mind an uncoloured version either as the smooth, plump and glowy finish is lovely on it's own, hence why I like it as a primer! I personally don't see the benefit of using this on top of another product because it doesn't really work for me but I suppose if you have a matte base that you like and wanted to add some radiance and glow then this would be the product, that's if you don't mind layering, I would just buy a foundation that does all of that in one to be honest instead of layering. I think this is a nice addition to MAC's lineup of base products, it's the better version of Face & Body for me as I much prefer the NTN's finish, it's just a pity that the shades don't work for me. That's it folks that's all I have to say about the Next To Nothing, as always I hope you found this review helpful.
Pros
- Exactly as MAC have described it to be
- Hydrating
- Skin smoothing
- Dewy finish
- Lightweight
- Very natural
- Best for drier skins
Cons
- Colours are too warm and orange
- Not ideal for oily skin types
- Not ideal for problem skin that need coverage
- Not super long lasting (but not really meant to be..?)
Foundation
Giorgio Armani Power Fabric Longwear High Coverage Foundation Spf 25 Foundation Review Shade 7.5 & 8
Right at the beginning of the launch Giorgio Armani were offering 2 shade samples of their latest foundation release, the Power Fabric Longwear High Coverage Foundation Spf 25. I was hoping to get shade 6 and 6.5 but they had already gone and the next best options for me were shades 7.5 and 8. I've tested the foundation a good few times and am ready to share my thoughts.
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| Picture and description taken from Giorgio Armani website |
POWER FABRIC is a new liquid foundation that teams full coverage with a matte, lightweight second skin finish.
POWER FABRIC is a concentration of oils with no greasy effect, which delivers a velvet matte finish. To achieve perfect full coverage foundation, powerful pigments were selected and then shaped to obtain extremely fine pigment particles with a quality of color beyond reproach.
POWER FABRIC combines full coverage with an ultra-light formula. Upon application, the texture melts into the skin, effectively blurring imperfections with an incredibly lightweight matte veil that feels like you're not wearing make-up at all. With a SPF 25 filter, power fabric offers effective daily UVA and UVB protection up to the promise of broad-spectrum SPF protection.
Because every woman is unique, POWER FABRIC foundation comes in 20 shades to suit all skin tones. The formula is adapted for each shade to deliver optimal coverage without cracking or dulling.
Coverage:
✔ Full
Skin type:
✔ Sensitive
✔ Normal
✔ Dry
✔ Combination
✔ Oily
Finish:
✔ Matte
✔ Natural
SPF:
- SPF 25
Shade & Oxidisation:
The shades 7.5 (Tan Golden) and 8 (Tan Warm) are too neutral pink for my skin, I can just about get away with shade 7.5 but not shade 8, but neither are ideal. I've seen swatch comparisons of the Power Fabric in shade 6 (Medium Warm) next to the Luminous Silk Foundation in shade 6 (Golden Beige) (review here), which if you remember was a perfect match for me and they are quite different, Power Fabric shade 6 looks a lot more neutral warm. I'm curious as to how it looks on me compared to shade 7.5 but other than that I am disappointed that the shades don't run similar to the Luminous Silk range as the shade 6 in Luminous Silk was an impeccable match for my olive skin tone. 7.5 is actually the only shade in the medium range described as golden so I'm wondering if it's the only shade that'll work for me. Here's the link to the really helpful swatch post by the Beauty Professor.
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| Nars All Day Luminous Weightless Stromboli, Power Fabric 7.5, Power Fabric 8 |
Texture
The texture of the Power Fabric is a normal liquid foundation consistency, not too thick and not too runny. In comparison to the Luminous Silk it's a little more thicker but still fairly lightweight. This formula blends really effortlessly into the skin. I've used both brushes and sponges and have noticed the finish is a lot nicer with a sponge and surprisingly there isn't a lot of product absorption. Usually I like using a brush for thin-ish formulas but the finish is a lot smoother and flawless with a sponge. I would agree that this formula is best for combination skin types, it's not at all drying nor is it highly emollient, it's a very easy formula to work with, but I suggest anyone with oily skin use a mattifying primer as I don't agree that this is a very matte formula and I would also suggest that you start off with a flake free base as this can sit around dry patches, I would also say that this is an easily adaptable formula so you can tweak the finish with the appropriate skin prep etc. I've been using my Boots Time Delay Radiance Booster (mentioned here) and love how this foundation sits on my skin when using this as a primer, it blends smoother and looks smoother too.
N.B. This foundation kinda smells faintly like washing up liquid, kinda fresh and clean but it's not overpowering at all.
Finish
Giorgio Armani describe this as a matte foundation, which I kinda disagree with, it's more of a natural satin-matte finish or a matte finish with a glow, it's not dewy but the skin does bounce light off the face in areas. I actually adore the finish to this foundation, perhaps more than the Luminous Silk, it's quite radiant but not at all in a greasy way and it doesn't highlight all the texture on the skin the way Luminous Silk can do all whilst looking quite natural. It gives the skin a nice smooth and soft appearance, it fills the pores just enough and doesn't exaggerate texture too bad, though saying that my skins texture has improved a lot in the past couple of months (alhamdulillah). I would say you can easily achieve a undetectable finish with this foundation as it definitely has a second skin like finish.
Feel
This formula is very lightweight, it doesn't feel or look heavy whatsoever, it sinks in wonderfully into the skin and becomes one with it. It doesn't feel overly emollient or drying, it's a very very comfortable formula, even more comfortable than the Lancome Teint Idole Ultra (review here) and even more natural looking too. If you have oily skin I highly recommend you use a mattifying primer and set well as your oils may make the foundation feel heavier after a while but on myself (combination dehydrated skin) this sits and wears really comfortably and I can barely feel it on my skin. I would say this is quite hydrating too as even by the end of the day my skin doesn't feel dry nor does it look parched.
Coverage & Build-ability
The Power Fabric in my opinion offers medium to medium full coverage, not quite a full full coverage. Using little product you can achieve a decent amount of coverage so you know a little goes long way. I personally don't have a lot of marks or anything on my face to cover, just some typical Indian girl hyper pigmentation around my mouth and some darkness under the eyes, I use a 5p dot on my forehead, a 5p dot on each cheek and the nose and 4x5p dots around a colour corrected mouth and I get decent amount of coverage, you can still vaguely see a couple of faint PIH on my cheeks peeking through so I've dabbed a little more foundation on and it's covered them well. It builds really well and doesn't cake up at all, it remains smooth and seamless. I've also tried building up coverage on my dark circles but it still doesn't quite cover them, so you'll probably need some concealer as well. I also use some concealer around my mouth for a little extra coverage there as it's my main problem area.
Longevity
I actually adore the way this wears on my skin, it looks better and smoother as the hours go by. It doesn't separate or disintegrate on myself and it remains looking pretty and natural. It still looks like the way it does when I first apply it, it really does move with the skin. I have quite prominent laugh lines and foundation can sink into them quite easily but I've noticed this foundation doesn't do that too much if at all, I've even had long naps with it on and have noticed very little wearing away, I've tested this with and without setting with powder and I'm quite impressed, without powder it does last a decent amount of time and I don't get hideously oily considering how radiant this is but it does and can transfer quite easily, if I needed this to last and stay in place I would definitely set with a light dusting of powder as I wouldn't want to compromise the pretty radiant finish too much. Definitely set with well if you have oily skin as I can imagine how oily the radiant finish will leave you after a few hours.
Overall Thoughts
I've actually come to adore this formula very much, it's a pity that they don't have a lovely olive golden shade for me as I think I like it more than the Luminous Silk Foundation. I would even say it's the updated better version of Luminous Silk, it offers more coverage, it's just as lightweight, it wears better and longer. Power Fabric is just slightly more matte, so Luminous Silk is better for those with slightly drier skin. The Power Fabric is such a comfortable and easy formula to use and you get such decent amount of coverage with such little product, I adore how this looks, feels and wears on me and really appreciate the thought and technology that has been put into this formula, you can really tell a difference with how foundation technology is advancing as time progresses. I want to get my hands on shades 6 and 6.5 to see if they're better matches for me compared to 7.5. Other than that apart from the premium price (£40) I don't have any other qualms with this foundation, it's probably my favourite matte foundation formula as of yet, it's been an absolute pleasure to sample and I'm happy the formula's worked really well for me.
Pros
- Very Lightweight
- Little goes a long way
- Medium - Medium Full Coverage
- Very comfortable on the skin
- Best for combination skin types
- Pretty smooth and soft finish on the skin
- Natural looking and second skin like
- Wears well on my skin
- Not drying
- Natural Satin - Matte finish
Cons
- Not ideal for very oily skin - will need good skin prep
- Can sit around dry patches
- Shade range isn't olive / yellow enough
- On the pricier premium range
- Not as full coverage as described
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