Some fun images to celebrate International Women’s Day😂
This morning I celebrated my Mother-My Rock! By giving her a full set of Gel Nails with a pretty French Manicure and Oval shape.
I also hugged my daughter as she is my little woman and I am grateful she’s in my life.
Celebrate and love the women in your life ❤️💗💋😘
MASCARA VOLUME EFFET FAUX CILS THE SHOCK RRP€33.00
YSL Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils THE SHOCK, the new volumising mascara from YSL Beauté, promises dark, intense, dramatic volume, like no other mascara within YSL. Thanks to a new brush and formula, Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils THE SHOCK instantly dresses your eyes with a rough, sophisticated, dark intensity.
The genius brush is wider than usual and has a curved symmetrical shape and – a new invention – four inner reservoirs cuts. With each dip of the wand into the barrel, the reservoirs fill up with the highest quantity of formula possible. Stroke after stroke, the lashes are loaded with the right amount of mascara to build a bigger volume than ever within YSL Beauté. Get the shock of volume with every blink.
Because the patented formula has a creamy texture, each stroke that’s applied melts seamlessly to the previous layer, allowing you to optimise volume. Load it on, keep lashes fuller, separated, and curled all day long. Truly mastered from root to tip.
EYE GLOSS SMUDGER, RRP €23.00
Eye Gloss Smudger is a glossy top coat eye gel that slicks on over anything and adds a high gloss finish and a daring attitude. Its non-sticky texture offers a wet shine on the eyelid, whether it’s worn on a bare eyelid or on top of an eyeshadow for a messy-on-purpose effect.
EYE DUO SMOKER, RRP €31.00
The one tool that does your entire look for you – the Eye Duo Smoker is a must-have makeup statement in one single dual-pen. With a creamy texture that’s easy to apply, the creamy eye shadow duo stick comes in a double ended all-black pen. Two different & complementary finishes offer two very different purposes: a dark mat colour on one end to intensify and contrast, a lighter shimmery colour to highlight.
Duo No 1: Smoky Grey
Duo No 2: Smoky Green
Duo No 3: Smoky Brown
Duo No 4: Smoky Burgundy
UTURE BROW MARKER
RRP €29.00
Masterful control. Wild and easy. The ultimate touch for perfected brows. YSL Couture Brow Marker is a felt tip brow marker that gives precise control over where you apply brow colour. It redefines your brows so that they’re full, thick and luxurious, framing the face and building character for a signature look. It’s made-to-measure brow shape and colour, with adjustable intensity and precision.
COUTURE VARIATION N° 4 – “UNDERGROUND”, RRP €62.00
From black to deep purple, YSL Couture Variation No 4 is an eyeshadow palette that balances the rough side of darkness with an intensely sensual harmony. An essential palette for smoky eye aficionados, the ten staple shades offer the perfect wardrobe of rock femininity.
Ten “underground” shades of black and colours to balance with black. Ten shades of textural variations to create highlights and shimmers, mattes and metallics, or creamy smooth primers and finishes. It’s all you need for an easy on-the-go smoky eye, or a refined, perfected smoky eye.
Available now from Brown Thomas and YSL counters nationwide 💗💋❤️
This spring Penneys is launching a collection of 11 face masks ranging from the Insta selfie favourite sheet masks to cooling eye patches, unclogging nose strips to hydrating lip masks. 
With the entire collection priced between €1.00 and €1.50, there is no better excuse to put on your pyjamas and bring the beauty salon to your own home.
I’ve had these in their box for ages now. When I saw them I just had to have them. As I wear black most days these will go with everything.
I love the patent leather finish and the big laces and ribbons, giving a prettiness to the edgy shoe.
I got mine in a size 6 as they didn’t have half sizes, I’m normally a 5& 1/2 but I will get insoles if I need them.
I got mine for €88 in Littlewoods and you can get them Here
Thanks for reading, follow if you would like to see more🌟👟💋
Ann-Marie🌟
Shake shake shake, dab dab dab this Spring!!
Our ultimate lip gloss has a bi-phased formula pairing nourishing lip oils with beautiful pigments for plump but natural looking, glossy lips.
These nourishing oils contain sweet almond oil, omega 3 and cranberry oil. The healthy oils your lips lust after! The cushion applicator feels soft to the touch, allowing the gloss to melt onto the lips. Like a sponge, the applicator absorbs just the right dose of pigment. The shape hugs the lips contours so you cannot go wrong. Thanks to the nourishing oils, the formula is non sticky and non-drying, making lips feel soft and kissable!
This spring we are introducing eight new delicious shades to our Juicy family, developed with Lancôme Creative Director, Lisa Eldridge:
005 – Bees-Nees Girl (Honey Fragrance)
450 – Liquorisky (Liquorice Fragrance)
281 – Marshmattack (Marshmallow Fragrance)
010 – Snow-Tilly (Chantilly Fragrance)
303 – Cloudy Candy (Cotton Candy Fragrance)
401 – Apple Moi (Apple Fragrance)
343 – Top Gun (Gum Fragrance)
411 – Banana Sleep (Banana Fragrance)
Lancome Juicy Shakers are €22 and available Nationwide from Lancôme in Feb 2017 💋💋💋
Thanks for stopping by, click Follow so you don’t miss a trick 🌟
Ann-Marie 💋
INFUSE YOUR SKIN WITH PURE VITALITY
Kiehl’s chemists proudly introduce Pure Vitality Skin Renewing Cream, a 99.6% naturally-derived formula that is the first of its kind to leverage the combined efficacy of two world-renowned wellness
ingredients – New Zealand Manuka Honey and Korean Red Ginseng Root. While cocooning the skin in a comforting and nourishing texture, this breakthrough moisturizer helps skin resist hydration loss[4]
while also aiding in recovery from existing skin damage. In a clinical test[5], skin’s radiance and glow improved by 41.8% while skin’s texture and smoothness improved by 39.7%.
To assess the advanced efficacy of their new formula, Kiehl’s chemists solicited an unprecedented
“Healthy Skin Torture Test.” In the study, a Healthy Skin Panel of women ages 20 to 30 (Control) were assessed for skin radiance, smoothness and softness, while a Less Healthy Skin Panel of women ages 35 to 49 (Treated with Pure Vitality) were tested for the same attributes before and after use of Kiehl’s new formula. After 8 weeks of using Pure Vitality Skin Renewing Cream, the Less Healthy Skin panel demonstrated clinical scores that were either on par[6] with or surpassed[7] the Healthy Skin Panel.
NATURALLY SOURCED FROM AROUND THE WORLD
NEW ZEALAND MANUKA HONEY
Manuka Honey is sustainably harvested in New Zealand.
Manuka Honey is a dark, creamy mono-floral honey is valued in medicine for its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties and ability to treat skin wounds, even post surgery[9]. Compared to any other form of honey, it has the highest polyphenol level and anti-oxidant activity[10], which help to protect the skin from oxidative damage such as pollution and UV. It is also known to stimulate collagen producing fibroblasts and keratinocytes, helping repair damage and maintain skin barrier hydration due to its high sugar content and 4x more minerals than any other honey[11].
Prior to formulation, Kiehl’s chemists tested the ingredient in a neutral base to evaluate its capacity to accelerate skin barrier recovery by reducing TEWL[12] vs. control site. After 2 hours TEWL decreased by 70.07% on the treated site vs 57.08% untreated[13] demonstrating the superior ability of this ingredient to maintain skin barrier.
KOREAN RED GINSENG ROOT
Red Ginseng Root is sourced from Korea and is a botanical used in Asian beauty regimes.
Korean Red Ginseng Root has been linked to stimulation and protection of the cellular energy pathways that begin to malfunction or slow down over time. This highly potent form of ginseng protects the cell’s mitochondria from oxidative stress and increases the production of energy-related molecules and pathways[15].
Kiehls Pure Vitality Cream RRP €56.00
Kiehl’s is available:
Kiehl’s 35 Wicklow Street,
Dundrum Town Centre,
and Arnott’s Department Store
or online at Here
Thanks for visiting my blog! Please follow so you don’t miss a thing 🌟😘
Ann-Marie 🌟🌟🌟
The clever people at Trndbeauty have chosen these four pans of eyeshadow to create this bespoke eyeshadow palette for Valentine’s Day. And here is what they say about it.
” With Valentines just around the corner we took some of our favourite loved up shades from Suva Beauty and put them into our very own Valentines Palette. Whether you’re taken or single – we need NO excuse to treat ourselves! “
4 beautiful shades from Suva Beauty all in one palette; 2 Shimmer Shades (Resort and Empire State) and 2 Matte Shades (Lock Bridge and Bloody Mary). These shades can be used together for the ultimate valentines glam or separately throughout the year!
Things to note about Suva Beauty:
– Shimmer shadows are beautifully textured and buttery to touch
– Built in primer in all shadow
– Magnetic Removable Pans
– XL Shadows with 4g of product!!
– Highest grade of pigmentation available
This special Valentine’s Palette can be yours for just €40 and you can Buy here
💋❤️🌟
Taking inspiration from the recent Golden Globes Awards and looking forward to a busy awards season including February’s BAFTAs and Oscars, Catrice Cosmetics brings you a selection of new season SS17 arrivals to help you recreate some of the top looks from the red carpet.Make sure you are camera ready whatever the occasion with a little help from the Catrice Spring Summer ’17 collection, available from pharmacies nationwide and Penneys stores from February.
Skin Deep
Flawless skin remains the basis of any statement look on the red carpet. This season, Catrice’s new Face arrivals focus on high-performance, long-lasting makeup that deliver a flawless finish. The new 24H Made to Stay Makeup, €7.90 is a waterproof liquid foundation, enriched with an antioxidant complex, which leaves skin silky smooth with a matt finish. The velvet-like 18H Made to Stay Powder, €4.95 delivers a natural looking matt finish to ensure you are camera ready at all turns. The powder texture absorbs excess oils making this great for oily skin.
Statement Lip
Actors Brie Larson and Lily Collins stunned on the Golden Globes red carpet with their classic Hollywood looks of soft eyes and dramatic lips, which we expect to see throughout awards season. For a Spring twist on the classic red lip, embrace a two-tone look with the innovative new Ombré Lipstick, €5.50 range. The diamond-shaped applicator creates a gradient effect when applied to the lips. The highly pigmented lipstick, available in 6 shades, is also enriched with argon oil creating a soft and creamy texture.
Eyes On
Another key factor in creating a dramatic lip is to keep the eyeshadow neutral and understated – smokey eyes and bold lips are a ‘no’! This season, Catrice launches its range of brand new eyeshadow palettes including The Essential Nude, The Modern Matt, The Nude Blossom and The Precious Copper collections. Each palette consists of 9 highly-pigmented shades including a highlighter shade for the brow bone. Recreate the rosé finish as seen on Emma Stone and Reese Witherspoon with the soft and feminine Nude Blossom palette.
And finally, when it comes to lashes more is, of course, always more! The new Rock Couture Extreme Volume Mascara, €4.50 aims to add volume and definition on first application with its elastomer brush and rich black texture.
Look red carpet-ready with the new Spring Summer ’17 collection, available from Penneys Stores and from Pharmacies now!
They’re Real! Double The Lip Liner & Lipstick in one and I have some exciting beauty news that they will be launching in stores this weekend (28th Jan 2017).
There are 8 shades in total in the collection and they will be launching on all benefit counters in Ireland this weekend for €22 each.
8 NEW eye shadows to add to the They’re Real! Collection. With the Duo Shadow Blender it’s beyond easy to get bigger, sexier eyes with this perfectly paired powder eyeshadow duo (€26 each).
Find your nearest stockist Here 💋🌟
I’m loving these little boots I picked up in Penneys/Primark for €17.
I’ve been looking for a grey pair and these are just the right heel height for daytime running around.
I got mine in Penneys Mullingar last week!
Only a quick little fashion fix post but I hope you liked ❤️💋🌟 And don’t forget to please Follow 🌟
Look at this beauty! theBalm have come up with some incredible products and palettes and this is everything you need to shape, sculpt, contour, bronze and define those features all in one gorgeously packaged palette.
The palette contains:
Everything you need all in one palette. Perfect for condensing your make up bag, ideal for travelling & for doing your make up on your commute.
theBalm is available Online here
Debenhams.ie
Meaghers
Cloud 10 Beauty
Make Up For Ever
I hope you liked this post!
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This solid brush cleaner came to me before Christmas and I finally remembered to use it today to clean some of my brushes I used yesterday.
I was dubious about it to be honest but to be fair I was really impressed.
A lot of my brushes are white, goat hair , duo and white synthetic microfibre and I used to have to wash them several times to get them white again, not anymore as this solid brush cleaner had them sparkling after one or two goes depending on products used, oil based etc.
This amazing brush/sponge/beauty blender cleaner is €14.99 and available from
Thanks for visiting and don’t forget to Follow my blog so you don’t miss anything 💋🌟❤️🌟💋
WITH A PRECISE BALANCE OF ACTIVATED C AND GLYCOLIC ACID KIEHL’S OFFERS AN ADVANCEMENT IN SKIN CLARITY
New moisture treatment is suitable for use twice daily, even for sensitive skin
Kiehl’s Since 1851 introduces Clearly CorrectiveTM Brightening and Smoothing Moisture Treatment – an ultra-lightweight, innovative hydrator featuring dermatologist-trusted Glycolic Acid in concert with the company’s signature skin clarity ingredient, Activated C (a high-performance Vitamin C derivative).
In 2011, utilizing Activated C, Kiehl’s chemists first established leadership in skin clarity with the launch of Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution (CCDS). To date, this formula is one of the most trusted serums for skin clarity, winning 19 global beauty awards and selling over 4 million bottles worldwide.
14 months ago, Kiehl’s chemists began formulating a new type of hydrator—an innovative moisture-treatment—to target 3 key causes of loss of clarity: rough texture, dehydration, and discoloration.
“CCDS remains one of the most effective targeted treatments for clarity on the market, but treatment serums are only one component of a complete skincare regimen,” shares Helen Sung, AVP Kiehl’s Product Innovation. “We asked ourselves, how could we address the key causes of loss of clarity? Naturally we could introduce additional doses of our skin clarity ingredients into a moisturizer, a central step in a regimen. But the true innovation would be in helping skin to better reflect light, and to be more receptive to the formula’s ingredients. This is where glycolic acid offered an important enhancement to the equation.”
While highly effective, Glycolic Acid can be irritating and dehydrating to skin. “Widely used as an agent in peels, it is a less popular ingredient in hydrators,” explains Dr. Adam Geyer, Kiehl’s Consulting Dermatologist. “When used in moisturizers, many formulate with glycolic acid at such a high level that it requires very specific usage and rarely allows for the moisturizer to be easily incorporated into a standard skincare regimen. And these formulas are generally unsuitable for those with sensitive skin.”
Always focused on the needs of even its most sensitive skincare customers, Kiehl’s chemists utilized precise concentrations of the ingredient to retain its exfoliation benefits, while remaining tolerable and appropriate for sensitive skin types.
“We intentionally used a lower level of Glycolic Acid in our formula to help soften surface skin rather than to aggressively peel it. This complements the Activated C in the formula by helping skin to be more receptive to the skin clarifying ingredients,” stated Dr. Geoff Genesky, Kiehl’s Head Chemist. “Within the formula, we also offer moisturizing benefits by tapping into the nourishing and protecting properties of Peony and White Birch. This careful balance is our true formulation achievement. This moisture treatment not only offers 24 hour hydration to balance the keratolytic properties of glycolic acid, but our formula is so tolerable that it can be used twice a day or even applied with a thicker layer as an overnight masque.”
Actively brightening, smoothing, and refining skin for a smoother texture, Clearly CorrectiveTM Brightening and Smoothing Moisture Treatment is clinically demonstrated to target the key factors of loss of clarity. After just 1 week, 86% of women agreed their skin had a luminous and translucent glow and felt soothed, while 94% agreed their skin felt moisturized.
INGREDIENTS & HOW THE FORMULA WORKS
Clearly CorrectiveTM Brightening and Smoothing Moisture Treatment leverages the efficacy of Glycolic Acid in a gentle and hydrating formula, which when combined with the complementary ingredients in the formula, targets the 3 key causes of loss of clarity.
1. Glycolic Acid supports desquamation to help improve skin texture: Between the ages of 30 and 80, skin’s epidermal turnover rate can slow by 30–50%[1], causing dull and rough texture. Texture changes cause uneven light reflection, diminishing skin’s brightness and luminosity. Glycolic Acid helps to gently exfoliate the top layers of the skin allowing light to better reflect off of skin for a more luminous appearance. Proper exfoliation also allows for better penetration of subsequent ingredients or serums.
2. White Birch & Peony address dehydration: As skin ages, moisture binding molecules within skin begin to deplete. Essential moisture escapes through the skin’s surface, which contributes to dull, tired looking skin, coarse texture, and more visible fine lines and wrinkles. To address this, White Birch Extract and a blend of moisture-binding humectants in the formula draw moisture from the air to help offer 24 hour hydration in the skin’s layers. Peony Extract helps neutralize free radicals, helping to maintain skin health so that it more readily receives and maintains moisture.
3. Activated C decreases discoloration: With age, skin is exposed to environmental aggressors, leading to oxidation and resulting in discoloration on the skin’s surface. In the formula, Activated C, a completely stable, fast-acting Vitamin C molecule, helps brighten skin while helping to reduce the appearance of new spots and discolorations.1
CLINICAL TEST RESULTS[2]
Immediately:
o Skin’s tactile smoothness/texture improved by 71.9%
o Skin visual smoothness/texture improved by 51%
After 8 weeks (on bare skin):
o Skin tactile smoothness/texture improved by 29.4%
o Skin visual smoothness/texture improved by 19.1%
o Skin radiance improved by 11.8%
CONSUMER TEST RESULTS[3]
Immediately:
o 86% agreed their skin felt smoother, softer and more refreshed
o 92% agreed their skin felt more comfortable
o 96% agreed their skin felt moisturized
After 1 week:
o 86% agreed their skin had a radiant and luminous glow
o 88% agree their skin felt smoother and appeared more supple
o 90% agreed their skin felt refreshed, and that its quality was improved
o 96% agreed their skin felt softer
After 8 weeks:
o 90% agreed their skin tone appeared more even
o 92% agreed their skin felt soothed and comfortable
o 94% agreed their skin appeared smoother, felt moisturized and that the overall appearance of their skin was improved
o 96% agreed their skin felt softer and appeared more supple
Kiehl’s Clearly Corrective Brightening & Smoothing Moisture Treatment will be available from January 14th 2017 at Kiehl’s 35 Wicklow Street, Dundrum Town Centre, and Arnott’s Department Store or online at http://www.arnotts.ie
Kiehls Clearly Corrective Brightening & Smoothing Moisture Treatment RRP €53.00
[1] Dermal Institute “Structural Changes Associated with Aging Skin”
[2] Female, 30-60 yrs. of age, All skin types, 50% multi-ethnic, 50% Asian
[3] Female, 30-60 yrs. of age, All skin types, 50% multi-ethnic, 50% Asian
I hope you liked this post!
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I had to share this onesie as I just saw it on Penneys_andpiecesofme
It’s pink, it’s fluffy, it has wings and a tail and it’s a Unicorn Onesie!
And at €15 it would be a great present for any girl who loves rainbows and unicorns🌈🦄💜💗
Catrice Glam & Smokey Eyeshadow Palette 010 NEVER GREY UP, €5.50
The classic smoky eye is a go-to look and perfect for a night out! The Glam & Smokey palette has everything you need to create a smouldering look with 6 sultry shades in a variety of matt and shimmering finishes. The lighter shades are also perfect for a more subtle daytime look.
CATRICE is available in Penneys and pharmacies nationwide 💋❤️💋
In case you missed them on my snapchat I thought I’d share the prettiest professional make up brushes with you here.
Blank Canvas Cosmetics Have just created these metallic and rose gold beauties called the Dimension Series and they are seriously beautiful.
The pink metallic,Rose Gold metallic & Gold metallic have already been a huge hit with make up lovers,Magpies and Make up artists already and I swooned for them too, so I was delighted and squealed with excitement when I received these in the post.
New colours, colour combinations, handle and ferrule design are among the vivid design options that turn our cherished artistic tools into a thing of absolute beauty in themselves
Tired of silver and black? New colour options include stylish combinations of gorgeous gold and hot pink, rich rose gold and black, metallic rose gold, and gold combined with champagne pink.
The complete collection of larger domed and rounded buffing and contouring brushes all feature exciting new looks. The range includes F01 Face Brush, F06 Bevelled foundation/contour brush,F08 Dome buffing brush,F31 Targeted Contour Brush,F33 Extréme Angle contour brush, F38 Round contour brush,F39 Dome Powder Brush,F41 Flat Tapered Cheek Brush, and the F43 Flat Rounded Multi face brush.
Even the cutest and most precise brushes are looking super stylish in new rose gold and blank handled livery! These include F09 Flat eye/Face blending brush,F11 Large eyeshadow brush,F12 angled eye/face brush,F13 small eye/face blending brush,E01 round eye blending brush,and E03 lip detailer/inner tear duct brush.Prices for single brushes start at €6.99 to €19.99
Handy BC Standee!
This fabulous faux leather ‘standee‘ brush bag comes in black and hot pink. Priced at €19.99 it’s ideal for storing your brush collection and perfect for travelling too. When opened it sits on its reinforced base, allowing handy access and easy sight of brushes.
Blank Canvas Are available online from:www.blankcanvascosmetics.com
All major stockists, including
and
Happy Shopping 💋🌹❤️
Irish Fairy Door Company, Paint your own set €24.95 buy Here
Merry Christmas personalised jigsaw €18.95 from Gifts.ie
Interactive worry plaque €34.95 available in toy stores and online Here at Irish Fairy Door Company
Christmas Pippa Bows €8.00 from Little Bow Pip
3D Toadstool night light €29.95 in toy stores and online Here at Irish Fairy Door Company
Worry Monster €5 from Euro Giant
A personalised Plate for Christmas Eve to leave out for Santa €20 from Andrina’s Personalised Plates
Thanks for visiting my blog.
Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas 💋🎄🎅🏻❤️
Kiehls men’s facial fuel set €35.50
Step One: Facial Fuel Energizing Face Wash, an efficient and refreshing face wash with caffeine, menthol and invigorating citrus extracts.
• Step Two: Facial Fuel Energizing Face Scrub, a “refueling facial buffer” that re-energizes and smoothes skin.
• Step Three: Facial Fuel Moisture Treatment for Men, a vitamin-enriched and energizing non-oily facial moisturizer.
• Complete with a complimentary deluxe sample of our Ultimate Strength Hand Salve, a cult classic maximum-strength moisturizer for dry, active hands.
Available from Kiehls stores and from Arnotts.ie
Baby it’s cold outside, so get the men in your lives a onesie to keep them cosy and cuddly. Penneys from €18
Biofresh Men’s skin care gift set €35.00 Available in Swords or Drogheda stores or online here: Biofresh
Penneys knitwear for men from €18
Biofresh Men’s Perfume €20 buy Here
Daniel Wellington Sheffield Black Leather Strap Watch €150.00 buy Here
Men’s grooming range starts from €2.50 in Penneys now.
Thanks for reading my blog.
Don’t forget to like and follow 💋❤️
Give them the gift of clear skin and banish any acne or spots with this miracle skin care from Biofresh €55 buy Here
Flawless palette in Natural Basics and Smoky palette includes Eyeshadows and highlighters for only €19.99
available from Shaws department stores, Haven Pharmacies & Pharmacies nationwide or online Here at Meaghers Pharmacy
W7 palettes are €7.95 great little stocking fillers 💗 I found these in Haven pharmacy Mullingar.
Sosueme Suzanne Jackson Contour and Highlighting Palettes are €29.95 and I found these in stock in Haven Pharmacy and Shaws department stores or online Here
Alex and Ani Bangles €36 and lots to chose from in Shaws Department Store & Alannah Rose Jewellers.or buy online Here
These Gorgeous Pom Pom hats are €18 in Shaws department stores.
Bejewelled Hat and scarf sets are €30 in Shaws department stores.
Cute Zoella gift sets start at €12.95 in Shaws Department stores.
Sosueme Suzanne Jackson Bags are €14.95 in Shaws Department stores or online Here
If you are really stuck for ideas Why not get a Penneys gift card 💋
This beautiful delivery arrived just in time for me to use on my cover shoot last week and to be honest I felt guilty using them.
Have you ever possessed something so pretty and beautiful that you didn’t want to use it? Well, that’s exactly how I felt about my Nima Brushes.
The colour of the handles is so distinctive and pretty, similar to the Tiffanys Jewellery pouches and boxes and the hair on the brushes are incredibly soft, even my model commented on how soft they are on her eyes & cheeks. A true testament as models especially this particular model has had her make up done hundreds of times for shoots & shows etc. And has felt a lot of different make up artists brushes, so her comments were like the holy grail. Most people are shocked and surprised to learn that I always give my new brushes a good wash before I use them on anyone. This helps remove any factory residue from the manufacturer where there could be particles from paint, fumes or dust etc. And I guess it’s just a habit with me now.
I have since used my new make up brushes constantly and they have quickly replaced some of my old favourites in my kit.
Nima Brushes is an Irish Owned company and you can order them Here at Nima Brush
I’ve been meaning to write this review for some time now and haven’t gotten around to it until now.
Here’s some questions I have been asked by friends and family when they saw I had it done and my honest answers!
Did it hurt?
I actually enjoyed the sensation and as I had numbing cream applied all over my face and neck it didn’t hurt at all, I could feel the needle around my lip area but not in a painful or uncomfortable way. I knew it was doing good for my skin, so I got a kick out of it.
Red! It was like I was sunburnt, which I never normally experience as I have skin that tans in the sun so this was new to me. I had sunglasses with me so I popped them on. I wasn’t embarrassed, I went into the pavilions straight afterwards and got a gorgeous pair of boots.
Can you wear make up after treatment?
Ciara applied SPF50 after my treatment to give my skin a barrier from the elements and protect from sun damage. It’s advised you don’t wear make up for 24 hours to get the full benefit and let your skin heal. I have used the SPF every day afterwards.
What was your skin like the next day?
The following morning the redness had reduced significantly and I was delighted to apply my make up and feel like myself again. My skin did feel noticeably firmer and plumped, my frown lines were noticeably reduced and my skin on my neck was still a bit red and sensitive so I made sure to apply more SPF there.
Was your skin dry afterwards?
Around day 3 post microneedling my skin did flake and peel so I made up my favourite scrub of sugar, lemon and honey and gave my skin a drenching with serum and moisturiser afterwards every night until it calmed down.
Would you recommend it?
Definitely yes if you want to reduce lines and wrinkles, improve circulation, boost your collagen in your skin, help with break outs, acne scars and open pores.
How much does it cost?
€95 per session which lasts 1 hour although some times there is a deal of€250 for three sessions!
Where can I have it done?
Biofresh have two stores in Swords and Drogheda. I had my microneedling done in Swords with Ciara.
Contact Biofresh here www.biofreshskincare.ie
Amazing news for Cork and Kiehls lovers!
Kiehls is opening its first store in Cork, opening on 18th November 2016 at Debenhams Department Store, Patrick Street, Cork.
I have been a lover of Kiehls since I worked in Blu Eriu many years ago.
Make lashes big, bold and beautiful with Catrice Cosmetics! This season, lashes should be dramatic and high impact, boasting volume, length and definition. Luckily Catrice has all the tools you need to create perfect fluttering lashes whatever the occasion.Here are a few of our must-have products, available in Penneys stores and selected pharmacies nationwide now:
Catrice Lash Boost Overnight Treatment Mascara 010, RRP €4.95
This newly formulated mascara treatment contains the active ingredient Widelash™, helping eyelashes appear fuller, longer and stronger by promoting hair bulb keratinocyte proliferation and ensuring optimal hair anchorage. The transparent mascara aims to make lashes up to 3 times stronger and for optimal results, apply in the evening like regular mascara so that the Widelash™ can develop overnight.
Catrice Lash Curler, RRP €4.50
An important, but often overlooked, step in creating dramatic lashes is using an eyelash curler. This premium Lash Curler from Catrice contains an integrated, removable comb that will help fan out lashes to create depth and volume. For optimal results, gently warm the curler in the palm of your hand to create a gentle heat that will shape lashes even quicker.
Catrice Prêt-à-Volume Smokey Mascara Velvet Black 010 VELVET BLACK, RRP €4.95
A new arrival for Autumn/Winter, the Prêt-à-Volume Smokey Mascara range delivers up to 18 hours of clump-free and smudge-free, luscious lashes. The mascara has a voluptuous fibre brush to evenly coat lashes and add lashings of volume. The mascara is available in Velvet Black and Waterproof varieties.
Catrice Glam & Doll False Lashes Mascara, RRP €4.50
Another hero product and a 2016 RSVP Beauty Awards winner, the Glam & Doll False Lashes Mascara has been a firm favourite for fluttering lashes since arriving on shelves earlier this year. This mascara features a curved elastomer brush which reaches each individual lash, coating them with a deep black texture. The volume formula amplifies lashes for dramatic results.
Catrice Lash Couture – Smokey Eyes Volume Lashes, RRP €4.50
As the saying goes, fake it ‘til you make it! Catrice offers a great range of false lashes – both individual and strip – that will instantly add volume and drama for the perfect finish. We especially love the Corner Lashes for a more understated finish.
The Catrice AW16 collection is available in Penneys stores and pharmacies nationwide now!
This beautiful box of shimmery wonderfulness arrived a couple of weeks ago and I’ve been positively glowing ever since!
Here’s the spiel from Penney’s PR about the gorgeous products I have fallen in love with: 
My favourite products from this magical box so far have been The metallic nail polishes and the Bronze Body Stick which I used on a models arms, shoulders and decollatage recently for a magazine cover shoot, she looked incredible anyway but this body bronze product gave me the shimmery glow I wanted to achieve almost instantly and quickly which is essential when working within a limited time frame. And the incredible news is, it’s only €6!
I joined snapchat over a year ago and I’ve enjoyed watching so many people share their little life snippets.
Here’s a list of some of my favourite snapchatter’s:
Joyce Bonelli- American make up artist, she’s a free spirit, a bit wild but I love her antics! She has a baby boy and is expecting again! 
Pippa O’Connor- Irish Model,Writer,Mum, Entrepreneur and such a lovely person! She’s a very busy lady who I find very positive and a great role model.
Dominique Nugent- I love watching her daily life, gym bunny, works in a furniture store, very talented hair dresser and her adorable niece Madisson. 
Laura Cunningham- I’ve known Laura a long time. We have worked together on shoots for many publications and even for TV3 Ireland AM. I love her snaps from Confetti wedding magazine and also Hippenings her own business and of course her cute cat Mark. 
Grace Mongey, Make up artist and blogger and most recently became a Mummy to baby Sienna Harper, such a gr8 role model for young mums as she is very honest and up front about her life. 
Stephanie O’Quigley – I love Stephanie’s attitude to life, her healthy life and her incredible body transformation. I was sitting beside Stephanie at the Lancôme L’Absolu Rouge launch and she was so lovely! I can’t wait to follow her journey as she is moving to New York this week! 
Kate Hudson- This girl cracks me up! I love her dancing around her kitchen, playing with her children and her cooking looks so delicious! She’s fun to watch.
Lisa Jordan- Probably one of my favourite all time snapchaters! Her Cork accent, her brand new baby Pearl, she keeps her husband Mark away from her social media and she blogs about fashion and make up! 
Kandee Johnson- I’ve watched Kandee on YouTube for years and she is so inspiring and funny! 
Róisín Tierney Crowe- I love watching Róisín and her glamour filled life. Filled with make up and skin care from brands such as Lancôme, Kiehl’s, Urban Decay to name just a few. I also enjoy her sneaking snaps of her boyfriend Mark, very funny, especially when he gets grumpy.
If you love pretty home decor, sewing,crafts and cats then you will love watching Dainty on her journey.
If you are looking for a special gift to give someone for Christmas this year maybe consider this make up brush set from Joanne Larby but I reckon they’ll be a sell out so better be quick off the mark!
Well done Joanne xxx
They look so pretty and girly and the bag that accompanies them is just so original and unique too!
Here’s what Joanne said on unveiling her product
THE WAIT IS OVER!!! The first product from my new line is…A set of 12 make up brushes that I poured my heart and soul into for the past year. The name? Fairy Wands. The packaging? A rose bronze star complete with strap that functions as a handbag, brush holder, cushion and free standing display that looks luxurious. The brushes? Handmade, cruelty free, vegan friendly, and even kind to trees. The bristles? The softest hair you’ll ever touch, virtually shed free, that wash like a dream and retain their shape. The brush shapes? A collation of my all time favourite shapes compiled over the years as an MUA. The hair colour? White fading into peach so your brushes already look dipped in blusher instead of looking dirty when used. The handle? Tiffany turquoise to be that little bit different in every way. The price? €90 for the bag and full set. The PERFECT Christmas gift. Available for pre-sale tomorrow from my website at 8pm #enchantbyjl
Get yours Here
Yesterday afternoon I attended the launch at The Wilde, a beautiful building on Merrion Square, Dublin 2. Surrounded by beautiful fellow artists and beauty bloggers for the launch of L’Absolu Rouge and as always the elegance and hosts were just gorgeous.
The gorgeous Róisín Tierney Crowe introduced Lorraine Byrne the beautiful Lancôme Make Up Artist and training executive to us and Lorraine gave an in depth brief on the creation of Lancôme’s new lipstick offerings some of which have been created by the Fabulous Lisa Eldridge ( one of my favourite artists and you tubers)
I managed to get some of the samples and will be trying them on clients and myself too!
The packaging is decadent and pretty elegant, gorgeous for gifting this Christmas and they retail at €31 and are available nationwide.
We also were privy to a sneak peek at the Christmas collection which is gorgeously packaged in Gold casings and anyone lucky to have this collection should flaunt it every time they touch up their make up, it’s that gorgeous!
The eyeshadow palette drew me in completely, the shades are so festive and completely wearable and designed by Lisa Eldridge herself, just stunning! Palette is €51 from Brown Thomas.
Today I visited Biofresh in Swords to have my first treatment of microneedling.
Strawberry, Pink Grapefruit and Coconut sound good? They smell even better than you can imagine and I’ve been enjoying these latest treats from Penneys ever since I got them in the post.
My daughter Zara-Zöe just loves the Strawberry shower gel, especially after swimming and has been loving using the body scrub on her little knees. The hand cream is gorgeous too, and it doesn’t leave your hands too greasy afterwards which is a pet hate of mine, so I can get on with things.
I’m loving the Coconut products too much, the scrub is perfect for gently removing any unwanted remnants of fake tan and it effectively removes and softens any dry/dead skin, leaving your skin nice and soft. The body spray is gorgeous and the fresh scent of coconut gives you a holiday lift in this dreary grey weather we have at the moment. It dries quickly so is perfect after the shower before dressing.
The PS Love Rose perfume is so light and hints of floral and citrus make it perfect for daytime.
The PS Love Noir Perfume is a heavier scent with accents of musk and is a gorgeous perfume for evening.
Penneys also very kindly sent me a backpack also pictured and it’s lined so can be used for the gym. We are currently loving it for swimming and it’s just €12 The Bath and Body range is available in Penneys now and prices range from €2
Our ACNE OUT kit contains three tested products needed for daily cleansing, active care and gentle moisturizing of oily and acne-prone skin with amazing results.The unique formula of active ingredients destroys acne causing bacteria,leaving a clearer complexion in no time.ACNE OUT is gentle on your skin,contains no harsh chemicals and no side effects.Proven products created by leading Dermatologists.
(Suitable for all age groups)
The best skin of your life starts here!
ACNE OUT ACTIVE LOTION for oily skin and acne
ACNE OUT SOAP with lactic and salicylic acid to gently wash oily and acne-prone skin
ACNE OUT HYDRO ACTIVE CREAM for daily hydrating care.
The combined action of these 3 products act fast with visible results within weeks!
Cleaning of pores
Regulate oiliness
Fast soothing skin
Remove buds
Destruction of bacteria causing acne
1 OILY AND ACNE-PRONE SKIN
Wash skin with acne soap out.
Apply Acne out active lotion morning and evening only on the buds.
Apply Hydro Active Cream once or twice daily to entire face and neck.
Leave an interval of 15-20 minutes between each application.
2. MILD AND MODERATE ACNE
Morning and Night wash affected areas – face, back, neck with acne soap.
Apply Acne out Active lotion morning and night, and if necessary more often across the entire face.
Apply Hydro Active cream once or twice daily to the entire face and neck.
Leave an interval of 15-20 minutes between each application.
Wash hands thoroughly after each application.
We are dedicated to Dermatology and innovative research, which leads to superb results in the generation of new promising compounds and formulas for the treatment of different dermatological conditions.Our dermo cosmetic products contain precisely selected active ingredients that guarantee the optimal efficacy and the minimum risk of side effects of the unique formulations.Our product range is PABA free, hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic as well as meeting all European quality requirements and standards. Products are clinically tested for their efficacy and safety.
To be in with a chance of winning this amazing prize make sure to like both Facebook pages, Comment below post and tag your friends or someone who needs this amazing kit. Good luck 💋
Acne Out
ACNE OUT IS AVAILABLE FROM BIOFRESH STORES IN SWORDS AND DROGHEDA,SELECTED PHARMACIES NATIONWIDE AND ONLINE AT Biofreshskincare.ie
Back to Black for Autumn with Noir Noir!
This season, nails go back to black with the stunning new Noir Noir Lacquers collection by Catrice Cosmetics!
Dark nails are a must for the winter months and are a central focus of Catrice’s new nail collection. As we embrace the darker evenings, so too do we embrace the rich and luxurious shades of winter beauty – from deep maroon to dark green.
The new Noir Noir collection offers 6 autumnal shades in tonal black nuances – 01 Marron, 020 Rouge, 030 Cassis, 040 Bleu, 050 Gris and 060 Vert. Each shade delivers a long-lasting, high-shine texture for a shiny smooth finish. The polish is enhanced with just a touch of colour, offering optimal coverage with just one stroke of the brush. Think of Noir Noir as the little black dress for nails!
Available in 10ml, RRP €3.30.
The Catrice AW16 collection is available in Penneys stores and pharmacies nationwide now!
Penneys have brought out a gorgeous range of skin care and the packaging is cute and girly.
I have been using the range since I received it and it’s safe to say that it’s worth way more than it’s price.
The Micellar water €2.50 is brilliant for a bed table, quick cleanse after a night out or if you use a cleanser first use this after on cotton pads to give yourself a double cleanse. 
This is amazing! I am weary of foaming face washes being drying on my skin but this leaves my skin feeling soft and smooth because of the Rose extract and Vitamin E. Only €2.75
Such a great eye make up remover to have in your make up bag! And for only €2.00 gives other more expensive brands a run for their money! 
This oil free moisturiser €2.50 is suitable for my combination skin and the witch hazel extract keeps my oily tzone under control and the cucumber gives a cool and calming feeling to the skin.
I gave this to my Momma to try out as it would be too rich for my skin. I’m sure she will love the Vitamin E and Rose Extract to rehydrate her skin which can be prone to some dryness. I will let you know her verdict…. Also only €2.50
All skincare is available in Penneys/Primark from €2
This beautiful package arrived a few months ago and I am now ready to write up an honest informative review. 
To be honest I didn’t know what to expect from a Hyaluronic serum but after cleansing each night before bed I applied 2 drops under my moisturiser and again in the morning.
My skin started to show a difference after about a week. It seemed plumper and less dehydrated looking. It was the softness of my skins texture that made me most impressed and this encouraged me to keep using it.
I usually hate the feeling of anything oily or sticky on my face at night time as my hair tends to stick to it or it feels awful against my pillow, so this was the first product I actually wanted to apply it before bed.
The other major plus point for me is the fact I can apply this before make up and it doesn’t interfere with my foundation or staying power.
I still have quite a lot left and will definitely replenish it when it’s finished as it has become part of my beauty routine and I LOVE IT!
I did also get a few samples of the Hydrate moisturiser and squeezed enough for a few days worth out of it. It seemed to almost refresh my dehydrated skin on first impression but I would liked to have tried more to give a proper review.
Pestle and Mortar Hyaluronic serum is €43.00
is available to order Here
Pestle & Mortar Pure Hyaluronic Serum is 100% free of animal derived raw materials and organic solvent remnants, paraben free, propylene glycol free, fragrance free and not tested on animals. Pestle & Mortar Pure Hyaluronic Serum contains hyaluronic acid which is proven to hydrate and soothe even the most sensitive skin while also smoothing fine lines and restoring youthful elasticity. The lightweight formula can also be used as a velvety smooth makeup primer. This Serum comes in a 30ml glass bottle with dropper applicator and sits in a chic cylindrical box.
A couple of months ago the beautiful people from Sass & Boho sent me a beautiful candle called “Sweet Tart” and I could smell the candle even before I opened the packaging. 
The scent of the candle is Rhubarb & Damson Plum, so warm,lighly sweet and comforting and anyone who came into the house when I was burning it, commented on how gorgeous the house smelt.
I’ve been saving it for when we have guests or if I’ve had a long day and I need to feel homely and snugly I’ll light the candle. It does definitely burn slower than most other candles I’ve had including Yankee and Jo Malone and I’m getting near the end of it now and that saddens me.
Maybe Santa will bring me one for Christmas or maybe I’ll get one for my birthday. 
Sass & Boho candles are available to buy online Here
And are £25.00
What they say: Sass & Boho is a Luxury Range of Hand Poured Scented Candles made using the finest premium essential oils, fragrance oils and a unique blend of sustainably sourced, eco-friendly soy, palm and vegetable waxes. No paraffin is used in our candles. Our wicks are 100% cotton with no nasty lead, resulting in a very beautiful, clean, toxic free burn.
It’s our premium ingredients and skilled craftsmanship that has produced such a clean burning candle with no compromise to the amazing, long-lasting, strong; but not overpowering aromas that fill the home and leave you still smelling the scent long after the candle has been blown out.
Each candle is individually hand poured, tended to and monitored for 24hrs before being left to cure for a minimum of 3 weeks. It is then given one final inspection, labelled, boxed and ready for its new home.
The Scents
Each scent has been uniquely developed by blending fragrance and essential oils to not only fill your home with the most beautiful aromas but to also give calming or uplifting effects and to elevate and enhance your mood.
It’s horrible when it happens to your favourite Eyeshadows/ bronzes/powders so let me show you how I fix mine! Unfortunately this gorgeous powder from The Balm arrived broken and I was so upset I put it aside until today and I decided to fix it using an old hack.
Step 1
What you will need:
some cling film or sandwich bag, a tea spoon or butter knife and some surgical spirits/rubbing alcohol.
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Don’t forget to like if my post has been of help and share with friends who may find this helpful too! 💋
It was like Christmas had come early to our home when the postman arrived with this box of PS.Pro make up from Penneys/Primark and I was so excited to try out all of my new goodies!
Here are the lipsticks I received which have been integrated nicely into my kit and have been used on clients ever since I received them and to glowing reviews I might add. The lipstick consistency is creamy and gives a satin finish, they are moisturising and leave lips feeling kissable and soft. The pigments are amazing and it’s quite easy to forget that these are a budget brand, they are comparable to a high end beauty brand and are definitely worth every cent. 
The Primers are fantastic and I was shocked by the quality for such a reasonable price point. They are easy to apply and blend right in to the skin, can be worn alone or under foundation. I love to mix the illuminating primer with foundation and apply it all over the face to give a gorgeous glow.
The Mattifying primer is amazing on oily or combination skin types and does effectively keep shine at bay.
Next is the Miracle primer which smoothes out fine lines and does prep older skin for make up perfectly and gives a flawless base.
The Liners are like felt tip pens and are like stains for the skin, they are build able so you can decide what intensity you prefer and they are long lasting and coordinate with Lip colours. 
The Rose Gold Foundation Brush is a favourite piece of kit for me. I like to use it to buff out any cream contouring to make sure it’s fully blended into the skin and removes any harsh lines. 
The Transluscent powder really surprised me. I wasn’t expecting the quality to be so good. I have tried it out and I love the lightness of it, it’s quite fine and it does what you’d expect a powder to do and that is to set your foundation making it stay put for the day and keep shine at bay on oily areas like your T zone and over oily eye lids. It’s definitely one for the make up bag! 
Felt tip eye liner was interesting to me as it is angled and quite thick. So, best for more dramatic liner, you can angle it to achieve a thinner line above your lashes but creating a delicate feline flick wouldn’t be advisable. Works well after you’ve applied false lashes to deepen and darken your liner though and this is where I have found it useful. The correction pen is like a retro magic marker I used to have when I was little and it does work well. I have used it with the lip liners from the PS PRO range to clean up lip lines after a model has eaten lunch and it saves so much time and is a gr8 piece of kit. I always give it a wipe with alcohol afterwards to keep it sterile.
The mascara was another thing I was pleasantly impressed with. I found it worked well when you want to layer up mascara to give length to lashes and didn’t seem to clump lashes either, so a thumbs up again from me.
This green toned colour corrector is gr8 for high colouring on cheeks and perfect to take down any redness if a client has red spots. Applying a tiny amount and blending well before foundation is applied it will give a gentle camouflage of the red tone in the skin and leave skin more balanced and even. 
The range is so affordable with prices ranging from €3.00
It’s exclusively available to the following stores in Dublin:
Mary Street
O’Connell Street
Blanchardstown
Dundrum
Teodora Sutra is one of Ireland’s top models with 1StOption model management and I had the pleasure of making up her beautiful face for the Cover of Confetti Magazine.
The Balm Cosmetics sponsored me for this shoot and sent me lots of amazing products.
For Teo I wanted her skin to be glowing and give her that highlight that everyone asks me for with a light natural smoky eye, fine liner and lashes to give eyes definition without looking too heavy. Fresh cheeks and lips and an overall romantic feel to the make up.
Here are a list of some key products which helped me achieve this look.
Skin:
I prepped Teo’s skin with Time Balm- Face Primer paying attention to the T-zone to help her foundation glide on and stay put under the studio lights.
I then used Light Time Balm foundation to give her skin a flawless finish using a tiny amount of Time Balm concealer to cover dark circles under the eyes.
Setting the foundation base with Sexy Mama anti-shine translucent powder.
Blush:
I applied some Cider, Crisp & Candy from my How about them Apples cheek and lip Palette and then some Hot Mama – a gorgeous peachy blush to Teo’s cheeks giving her a fresh flush to her cheeks.
Highlighting the cheek bones with Mary Lou Manizer and
Contouring with Bahama Mama.
Eyes:
I used my Nude Dude Volume 2 Palette to create the look and a mixture of Fabulous and Faithful to the eyelids and blended it out with Flawless and Feisty to give depth and definition. I then applied Funny and Fine to the socket line to intensify the eye and blended these under the lower lash line too to give the blown out smoky effect.
Schwing liner was applied to the upper lashline.
Lashes:
I curled Teo’s lashes and applied some Tall Dark and Handsome Black Mascara.
I then applied gorgeous 711 Lashes from BABYDOLL cosmetics. 
Lips:
I customised lipstick for Teo’s look mixing Mai Billsbepaid and Ima Goodkisser
All Products used were from:
The Balm Cosmetics
available from Meaghers Pharmacy Here
Make Up For Ever Dublin Here
and Cloud10Beauty Here
Brushes are available from Blank Canvas Cosmetics Here
BabyDollLashes available Here
Hair by the wonderful Glen Cullen
Nails by the amazing celebrity nail artist Michele Burke
Photography by Anita Sadowska
Styling by Carmel Ann Daly
I received these gorgeous lipsticks from Charlotte Tilbury and wanted to use them on make up applications to try them out before I did a blogpost. Here’s what Charlotte herself says about her new lipstick range.
Darlings, I always say lipstick empowers confidence – it’s happiness in a tube! My beautiful NEW HOT LIPS collection has been created in collaboration with 12 incredible, brilliant, hypnotising women for an incredible charity: Women for Women International! Featuring my revolutionary, iconic square-angled tip that is designed to mimic a lip brush, as well as my CEW award-winning formula enriched with Orchid Extract, and voluminising 3D pigments for cashmere-soft lips that look lit from within.
Electric Poppy is a vibrant hot pink, it’s creamy texture feels gorgon on your lips and lasts longer than a satin finish lipstick. Gorgeous for girls who love to make a statement.
Salma’s smouldering and sexy colouring is so enchanting that I wanted to bottle it! That natural deep-rose plum brings out her beautiful brown eyes, adding instant sultry Latin sex-appeal to anyone who wears it. The perfect addition to the alluring DOLCE VITA look!
Hot Lips are €30.00 and are available from Charlotte Tilbury online Here Or At Brown Thomas Here
Penneys have come up with the make up goods yet again!
This morning I received this cute delivery of their new gorgeous rose gold foundation brush and very sturdy make up brush holder. This holder is so well made and I think it would be perfect to protect your personal make up brushes when going on holidays.
The Foundation brush it feels so soft and silky, almost velvety, it’s great to give a light to medium coverage of foundation and is also excellent for blending cream contouring. It is available in July for only €4 and would be an amazing dupe for the more expensive ones available.
I’ve been so excited for this cover to hit the shelves so I can reveal it to you all.
Katie was such a pleasure to work with, beautiful skin, great personality and that accent is just gorgeous.
For the Autumn Cover I wanted to keep the look classic,fresh and pretty.
On Katie’s skin I applied some of this amazing primer from Make Up For Ever
And to give a flawless yet not heavy foundation I chose the HD foundation no.140 from Make Up For Ever
To cover little blemishes and redness I used Full Coverage Concealer Shop here
To set the base I used this gorgeous powder Here
To add some warmth on high points of Katie’s face I chose this gorgeous bronzer Pro Bronze Fusion
And to contour I used this sculpting kit See it here
For highlighting I wanted some light shimmer and chose this stunning iredescent powder to luminize the cheekbones, down the centre of the nose and Cupid’s bow Shine on compact click here
To create a natural flushed cheek I applied no.225 on Katie’s cheeks Blusher link here
On Katie’s eyes I used this palette which has lovely soft Browns, perfect for creating a beautiful smoky eye.Shop Palette here
The liner was kept close to the lashline using cake eyeliner with a few drops of water from Make Up For Ever
To give lashes definition I applied lashings of Smoky Extravagant Mascara from Make Up For Ever
And added some 711 lashes from BABYDOLL Cosmetics
I lined Katie’s lips and filled them in using light strokes with Rosewood Lip Pencil
I mixed some of these pretty lipsticks to create the perfect kissable lip using this divine lip palette Shop it here
I dabbed on this plexi gloss to finish the look Shop plexi gloss here
Setting spray was spritzed all over Katie’s make up to preserve it under the studio lights & keep it looking fresh. Shop here
On Katie’s Body I applied Cocoa Brown Golden Goddess Oil
This shoot cover was a challenge as the studio and make up room were so hot. One model had a slight reaction to make up and one model was over heating but I think you’ll agree it all worked out in the end and the result is a gorgeous Magazine cover.
I used everything from Blank Canvas Cosmetics including:
Lashes were from my favourite BABYDOLL Cosmetics
Nails were manicured and gelish applied by the talented and funny Michele Burke
The Foundation I used was Make Up For Ever HD
Hair was styled to perfection by the hair maestro Glen Cullen assisted by the selfie king Cian Kavanagh.
Photographer Anita Sadowska
Styling by Carmel Ann Daly
Flowers were from A Room In Bloom
Jewellery by Weir and Sons
Sorry it’s late being posted, I’ve been busy with weddings and shoots.
It’s hard to pick just a few items but these products have really stood out for me in the last month so are worthy of a mention.
YSL DESSIN DU REGARD STYLO WATERPROOF EYELINER:This little beauty came to my rescue on a few occasions as its staying power is brilliant. I recently had a shoot where the model had “leaky eye” and nothing would stay put under her lower lashes and as I was going for a smoky look I was determined to find something to stick. I pulled out this YSL pencil and blended it under the lower lashes and it worked and didn’t budge. The more poking and prodding you do to an already irritated eye can be a recipe for disaster but with this pencil there was no need to keep at it after I blended it. Would be amazing for people with sensitive eyes and anyone who wants their liner to stay put.
How about them apples palette: delicious creamy cheek and lip colours perfect for summer and just gorgeous for summer.
Nude Dudes palette: A perfect selection of nude eye colours to create any smoky eye or natural pretty look you desire. Easy to blend and a mirror included, perfect for your handbag.
Mary Lou Manizer: because every girl should have this highlighter in their possession. It’s not famous for no reason, it is truly a beautiful highlighter and brightens up a flat make up and adds a glow to tired looking skin.
Hot Mama : this has fast become one of my go to blush products. The peachy/coral tones are beautiful and flattering on most skin colours and brighten up any make up application.
Mai Bills be Paid lipstick: my most recent favourite nude lipstick. Creamy and moisturising and gorgeous to accentuate gorgeous lips.
Ima Goodkisser lipstick: a lovely pink without blue pigment. A lovely shade that won’t look “too much” and pretty enough for brides.
Penneys individual eyelashes are so brilliant when you have limited time to apply lashes but your client doesn’t like strip lashes as they come in little clusters and so make application faster yet give the same amazing result.
Bella Pierre BB cream
Bellapierre Derma Renew BB (Beauty Balm) Cream is a combination of advanced skincare and full skin coverage. This anti-aging formula acts as four products in one:
· Concealer
· Foundation
· SPF 15
· Moisturizer
Oil free, mineral-based formula will not clog pores and naturally covers imperfections.
Available in 5 shades to match all skin tones.
· Maximum coverage
· Smooth & Matte finish
· Highly pigmented, lasts for 14h
· Flawless appearance
· Silky satin texture
Squeeze a small amount onto fingertips and smooth evenly over face. Blend into neck. Allow to fully absorb.
Here’s some links for stockists:
Y.S.L. UK
Y.S.L. Brown Thomas
Y.S.L. Debenhams
The Balm @ Cloud10Beauty
Bella Pierre available at Biofresh
A couple of days ago I was invited to Lancôme head office in Dublin,Ireland where I was treated to a sneak preview of the amazing Grandiose Liner & Grandiose Extréme Mascara. The gorgeous Lancôme make up artist Laura Pye demonstrated the liners and mascara on the beautiful Michele McGrath.
The liner consistency is fluid, so no dragging upon application and it dries quickly so no transfer to your eyelids when you open your eyes to take a look. It dries matte and the colour payoff is excellent.
This would be super for anyone not confident with liner as the applicator is designed with revolutionary design making it so user friendly. It is available from Brown Thomas Today and is available in Three colours, Carbon Black, Deep Brown & Sapphire Blue.
The Grandiose Extréme Mascara has the most amazing Matte Black packaging and inserted black rose in the silicon handle, so pretty.
The swan like neck of the mascara wand and tightly knit bristles of the brush make application so much easier and quicker too as one sweep covers every lash perfectly.
The mascara is a firm favourite in the beauty world and I can see why now that I have tried it out.And I love how the mascara doesn’t flake or drop throughout the day.
The Grandiose Extréme Mascara is available from Brown Thomas today too.
And then available nationwide from July 1st.
Grandiose Liner RRP €29.00
Grandiose Extréme Mascara RRP €31.00
Limited Edition “Sound of Silence” by CATRICE in July 2016. This capsule collection is comprised of an Eyeshadow Pen in 3 shades, a Gel Eye Liner, a Golden Lip Glow Lipstick, a Blush & Bronzer combo, a fluid glow highlighter and 4 brand new Nail Lacquer shades, each encased in luxurious gold-effect packaging. Throughout the collection, neutral natural tones like brown and beige stand in a modern contrast to mauve and lilac, which are refined with golden highlights. The Fluid Glow conjures-up beautiful light reflections on the skin while the Blush & Bronze sets summery accents.
Sound of Silence by CATRICE – Pen Stroke Eye Shadow
One stroke is all you need! Each of these three eyeshadow pens glide onto the skin with a creamy texture and silky matt finish. The sponge applicator allows you to blend as you wish, adding the finishing touch to long-lasting results. Available in C01 Calm Down ‘n’ MAUVE On, C02 Pure Silence and C03 mudITATION.
RRP €4.50*.
Sound of Silence by CATRICE – Gel Eye Pencil
This Gel Eye Pencil with an intensive colour-dispersion sets golden, metallic highlights for a luxurious look. Available in C01 Golden Spirit, RRP €3.70*.
Sound of Silence by CATRICE – Golden Lip Glow
Desert Rose! This lightly pigmented lipstick contains a golden core that adds a shimmering shiny finish to the fresh rose lipstick.
Available in C01 Golden Spirit, RRP €4.50*.
Sound of Silence by CATRICE – Blush & Bronze
This beautiful duo scores points with its subtle shimmer effect: the bronzing powder delivers a natural tanned look while the fine pink blush creates a fresh complexion. Available in C01 Desert Flower, RRP €5.50*.
Sound of Silence by CATRICE – Fluid Glow
G(l)o(w) for Gold! This fabulous fluid highlighter can be applied on its own or mixed with a foundation for a glowing, dewy finish. The innovative glass container boasts a pipette applicator to allow an accurate dosage. Available in C01 Golden Spirit, RRP €4.50*.
Sound of Silence by CATRICE – Nail Lacquer
Four limited nail polishes join the Catrice family from Sound of Silence: mauve, pink with a blue shimmer, a dark nude and mud with a golden shimmer – inspired by cactus blossoms, sand and stones. Available in C01 Calm Down ‘n’ MAUVE On, C02 Touched By Peace, C03 mudITATION and C04 Quietude. RRP €2.95*.
“Sound of Silence” by CATRICE will be available in Penneys Stores and pharmacies nationwide this July!
This has to be one of my favourite affordable highlighter & primer combinations ever. This is only €12.95 for 30ml so it’s incredible value.
The texture is light and absorbs quickly which to me makes it last longer than most I’ve tried. I have slightly oily skin but this does not budge even if I don’t fix it with powder.
The added bonus is that it has an SPF10 in it too, so it protects my skin when it’s sunny outside, although to be fair, I wear SPF every day because I am very weary of skin/sun damage.
I finally managed to snap up this gorgeous Sleek Highlighting palette I’ve seen everywhere on blog land and I found it in my local hair supply shop Des Maguire’s Hair & Beauty Supplies Here’s their Facebook Page.
Below are some pics of the divine palette and video swatches from my snapchat too! My username on snapchat is annmariecj Coke give me a follow for random life snaps with make up too!
I love the entire palette and can’t decide if I have a favourite from it yet! Have you got this palette? What’s your favourite highlighter?
Here are the swatches 💫🌟💫
I did my niece Paige’s make up for her graduation and used the palette on her, the results are fab! Highlighter on fleek💫🌟💫
Sleek is available from Des Maguire Hair & Beauty Supplies Here ,most pharmacies and online from Meaghers.ie from €13.49
I adore highlighter popped on the high points of the face as part of my make up applications. Some clients love the “see from space” highlighting whilst some go for the “gentle glow look” whatever the desired effect I have accumulated a lot of products to achieve any highlighting look.
I have my all time favourite Mary Lou-Manizer from The Balm which I got in Make Up For Ever. This is just beautiful and so fine it can be used on mature skin as the particles are so fine it gives the skin a healthy glow without being too glittery and the packaging is so pretty.
MAC Soft N Gentle is my other favourite and has been for quite some time. I love this over eyelids to brighten up a dull eye or applied to inner corner of the eye to open eyes up. Gorgeous on cheekbones, down the nose or on Cupid’s bow to make lips appear fuller & it lasts ages too.(I’ve had this one a year & need to restock).
LULU from the Pippa Palette is just so pretty and applied with fingers will give you a subtle glow or built up with brush will give you a more defined effect.A gorgeous highlighter you can wear anywhere you want to draw attention to.
Glow from CATRICE is a brilliant budget buy and has sold out everywhere, stockists are finding it impossible to keep in stock as most highlighters are in big demand at the moment with everyone wanting to try it out themselves.
Buff Sheer Glo Movie Star is a liquid highlighter which illuminates skin and when applied under foundation it gives the skin a glow. If applied over foundation the look is more striking and set with a loose powder to keep it in place and last for the day.
Benefit Highbeam has been a staple in my kit since it was released and I still pull it out from time to time for a subtle look, it helps make dry/dull skin look luminous and glowing. I mix with foundation and apply with a brush.
MAC Shell cream eyeshadow is up there in my cream favourites as it has a gorgeous pinky hue and flattering shimmer. Gorgeous on cheekbones, down the nose and even on your décolletage.
MAC Pearl cream eyeshadow is a whiter version and best suited to Ivory/paler complexions. Easy to blend and handy for travelling as it’s a cream, so it won’t shatter if you drop it.
Golden Goddess Shimmering Dry Oil from Cocoa Brown is a gorgeous highlighter for tanned sallow skin types. It can be used anywhere on face or body to accentuate your best features be they your legs, collar bones, slim arms or shoulders.
Charlotte Tilbury Wonder Glow, instant soft focus beauty flash is a gorgeous light liquid highlighter with a yellow/golden tone. Lovely under foundation for a subtle glow or over foundation for a more dramatic effect.
Vita Liberata capture the light skin perfecting illuminisor Latte is amazing on dark tanned skin, better than a BB cream it gives soft focus for lines and wrinkles,whilst creating an optical illusion as it’s subtle shimmering particles “capture the light”.
Catrice Blush Artist shading palette shade: 010 BronzÉclat the highlighter included in this nifty palette is more of a peachy tone and perfect for anyone with dull skin needing a lift as it’s so subtle and forgiving, perfect for a first timer to highlighting.
YSL invited me to preview their new products in their gorgeous office in Styne House,Dublin which will be on Sale in May and June.I loved the Make up demonstration using all the new products by Fred Letailleur YSL European Make up Artist, I could watch and listen to him all day long with that gorgeous French accent.
Cara Delevigne is the YSL cover girl and she looks incredible wearing the new summer range.
First up are the new coloured mascaras above is just a selection as there are a few others too including a gorgeous silver one which would be both gorgeous in editorial shoots or for a night out.
The colour pay off is amazing and the YSL mascaras smell divine. Packaging as usual from YSL is beautiful and its classic gold is instantly recognisable.
We also had a play with the new improved eye pencils and new eye pencils which are waterproof and designed especially for your waterline, the colour range is amazing and the pigment and longevity is incredible.
We had a look at some of the liquid Eyeshadows too, the palette of gorgeous fresh summer colours, the lipgloss(a wearable subtle pink) too!
The palette is so pretty and the blue denim effect fabric on the palette is so gorgeous to house these fabulous Eyeshadows for your summer make up looks.
I had such a gorgeous morning playing with the new products and testing them out. My hand was covered and my nails even experience the beauty of YSL too.
The design, the girly animated packaging, formulations,colours,concepts, names of products and overall ethos of The Balm has always caught my eye.
I have had many products from The Balm and always purchased from Make Up For Ever on Clarendon Street.
The very gorgeous people from The Balm have sent me some gorgeous products to use on my shoots and clients and I am in love with it all!
It’s safe to say the packaging is just so cute,quirky,girly and stands out from any other brand.
No matter how messy my kit is on a shoot day I can instantly identify The Balm products because of the distinctive packaging. 
The Balm is available Here or from
Check out my blogpost on doing make up for Michael Bolton Here 💋
I received these CATRICE products today and they are just amazing for a budget range. Perfect for teenagers, make up students or anyone who wants to experiment with their look and has a limited budget or can’t afford the higher end brands. 
I have tried out a few products from the range before and anyone who knows me will know that I use the brow kit on myself and clients as it enables you to create a very natural looking brow when used dry with an angled brush or to create a more dramatic brow just spritz your brush with a bit of water or MAC fix + spray.
If like me you have coloured hair/ frizzy hair/ humidity disaster hair or dry ends then you’ll know the struggle is real to keep it looking shiny and healthy.
I have just a few of my favourite oils and sprays I use on the ends of my hair here to show you.
Aussie Miracle Hair Insurance is a leave in conditioning spray which you spray onto hair when it’s wet/damp and I find it amazing when my hair is drying out/frizzy as it calms the follicles down and less frizz. It also makes brushing my hair much easier so I use it on my daughters hair too.
Semi Di Lino Heat Protectant spray is amazing for giving your hair a glossy shine and it protects it from the heat of your hair dryer/straightener/tongs.
Revlon Uniq One. I love the smell of this and it definitely helps protect your hair from moisture/humidity/frizz. Leaves your hair soft and manageable too.
L’Oreal Mythic Oil. This is probably my favourite of all as it just makes my (Frizzy,woolly) hair so sleek,shiny and healthy looking. I carry this with me if I tie my hair up too, to tame any stray hairs or flyaway hairs.
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ROUGE D’ARMANI, THE COUTURE LIPSTICK 
Giorgio Armani Beauty has exalted women’s beauty for 15 years, offering innovative and sophisticated formulas with ultra-natural results. All Armani beauty make-up boasts sensorial textures, refined colours and minimalist packaging.
Today, ROUGE D’ARMANI takes centre stage with Canadian actress Sarah Gadon, ambassadress of Giorgio Armani Beauty make-up.
ROUGE D’ARMANI, AN ICONIC LIPSTICK
“I love red lips, because they always look glamorous. For me, applying lipstick is a sensual step that can boost a woman’s confidence. As soon as you apply ROUGE d’ARMANI, you know that its cutting-edge formula is like no other.
It stays put for hours, without becoming dry, and glides easily over the lips to reveal a beautiful, lacquered satin finish. The ‘colour bond’ technology saturates the formula with high-quality pigments for a result that’s perfect every time.”
Linda Cantello, International Make-Up Artist Giorgio Armani
Rouge d’Armani is now a must-have Giorgio Armani make-up product for even the most demanding women. This satiny couture lipstick is used every day by make-up artists around the world.
Its gentle, lightweight formula promises exceptional colour hold and comfort for six hours straight.
A PATENTED FORMULA FOR AN IMPECCABLE RESULT
15 years ago, the Giorgio Armani Beauty laboratories patented the “Micro-fil™” process, inspired by the couturier’s very specific choice of fabrics. Make-up was crafted like tailor-made “clothing” for the complexion with a “second skin” effect uniting radiance, sheerness and subtlety.
Adapted to lipstick, this technology now becomes “Colour Fil” thanks to the magic of “Colour Bond,” based on seven years of research and protected by 12 patents. On application, a totally imperceptible 3D mesh ensures flawless colour hold. Colour is locked in for eight hours, without fading or feathering. Light reflection is boosted and lips are intensified in one silky caress.
A FORMULA FOCUSED ON SOFTNESS
– Emollient agents and micronised waxes glide over lips and improve comfort for easy application.
– Spherical micro-pigments join the “Colour Bond” technology, enriching colours to make them dazzle.
– Two lightweight oils, in perfect affinity with the lips, respectively provide comfort and a satin smooth finish.
– Lips are moisturised for six hours straight.*
– Colour doesn’t fade or feather* for eight hours.* The lip contour stays perfectly defined.
* instrumental test
PERFECT COMFORT AND HYDRATION
Self-assessment by 63 women with all lip types who tested ROUGE D’ARMANI for one week.
Soft texture: 100%
Lips feel instantly comfortable: 98.4%
Lips feel lastingly comfortable: 82.3%
Colour doesn’t fade: 90.3%
Lipstick doesn’t feather all day long: 83.9%
13 NEW SHADES
Beiges: N° 101 sand
Browns: N°200 bamboo
Corals: N°300 gio and N°301 amber
Reds: N° 404 flamboyant and N° 405 lucky red
Pinks: N°501 milano, 502 kimono, 509 blush, 514 eccentrico
Plums: N°600 front row, 601 attitude, 602 night viper
These new shades join the 11 iconic shades, including N°400, for a complete palette of 24 colours.
11 ICONIC SHADES
Beiges: N° 102 silenzio, N° 103 nuda
Reds: N° 400, N°401 redfire, N° 402 scarlatto, N°403 velours
Pinks: N° 500 garçonne, N° 508 rose alexandrie, N°510 alba, N°512 pastel glow, N°513 maharajah
AN OBJECT OF SEDUCTION
ROUGE d’ARMANI slips into a minimalist black lacquered tube and clicks shut with an exclusive magnetic closure.
THE GIORGIO ARMANI BEAUTY DRESS CODE FOR LIPS
All lipsticks signed by Armani have a specific function, thanks to feather light textures and extreme comfort for a faultless result: matte or shiny lacquer, satin finish, balm…
Couture ROUGE D’ARMANI AND LIP MAESTRO
Sophisticated, comfortable lipsticks with a spectacular Haute Couture effect. LIP MAESTRO is
swept on with a sponge applicator to offer a velvet matte finish, while the classic Rouge d’Armani lipstick is applied directly to the lips for a satiny finish.
Cruise collection: ROUGE D’ARMANI SHEERS
Sheer, dazzling shades with a moisturising formula.
Collection with ROUGE ECSTASY AND ECSTASY LACQUER
A comfortable lipstick that’s easy to wear anywhere, anytime, and a sophisticated concentrate of colour and extreme shine.
ROUGE D’ARMANI, THE COUTURE LIPSTICK (RRP €30.00) will be available exclusively at Brown Thomas Dublin, Cork & Limerick or Brown Thomas Online
When I saw the press release in my inbox I just had to share. The packaging is so gorgeous! Rose Gold, so pretty, girlie and Luxurious, it would look pretty on your dresser,in your make up bag and when you’ve finished ogling it you get to apply it!
The range consists of the following:
Denim Divine by Catrice – Eye Shadow Palette Carpe Denim!
Open the luxurious metallic, rose-gold packaging to unveil a multitude of silky textures and a large make-up brush in this exclusive palette. This contains six highly pigmented powder eyeshadows ranging from soft nudes and fresh apricot to brown and bronze tones, as well as a dark indigo shade for a sultry finish. Available in C01 Injeanious, RRP €7.95*.
Denim Divine by Catrice – Liquid Liner
Indigo Eyes. This liquid eyeliner in dark blue delivers a cool matt texture with long-lasting results. The fine brush applicator allows accurate application for perfectly curved lines, perfect for creating a statement eye make-up look. Available in C01 Dark Denim Blue, RRP €3.50.
Denim Divine by CATRICE – Luminous Lip Gloss
Who doesn’t want smooth and glossy luscious lips for summer?! The semi-transparent, light texture of this new Lip Gloss provides the lips with a slight shimmer in a choice of fresh coral or subtle nude. Available in C01 Women’s Cut and C02 Comfort Fit, RRP €3.95*
Denim Divine by CATRICE – Powder Blush
Create a blushing summer complexion with this new powder blush in a fresh peach tone. Easy to apply and blend, this plush emphasizes the cheekbones beautifully and creates a natural-looking, silky matt finish. In a nod to its denim inspiration, this product carries a unique jeans embossment on the surface of the blush! Available in C01 Stone Blushed. RRP €4.50.
Denim Divine by CATRICE – Bronzer
Nothing screams summer like a sun kissed glow! This fine bronzing powder delivers a soft matt finish for a naturally tanned look, and can also be used for contouring. With its unique jeans embossment and rose-gold packaging, this bronzer is a beauty bag must-have! Available in C01 Hot TANts. RRP €5.50.
Denim Divine by CATRICE – Nail Lacquer
Five brand new nail polishes await you to perfectly complement your summer denim: deep midnight blue, fresh coral, bright red, subtle almond brown and soft nude. The formula of these new nail lacquers delivers extraordinary coverage, lasting durability and a beautiful finish, and the professional brush allows smooth and neat application. The unique square packaging also carries the collection’s with its authentic jeans embossment on the lid. Available in C01 Dark Denim Blue, C02 Fabricot, C03 Women’s Cut, C04 Comfort Fit and C05 Gold Miners. RRP €3.50*.
“Denim Divine” by CATRICE will be available in Penneys stores and selected pharmacies nationwide from mid-April to mid-May 2016.
I’ve loved Kiehl’s since my days working in Blu Eriu, Dublin and this new range is just gorgeous.
I get anxious when I see new mums using certain brands on their precious new borns but with Kiehls you can rest assured there are no harmful ingredients and will be super sensitive for your babies skin.
I used Kiehls and Burts Bee’s baby range when my daughter was born as I didn’t want to use anything harsh or full of chemicals.
Here’s the press release and prices:
Tested Under Paediatric & Dermatological Control & Mummy-Approved New York, NY — The joys of parenthood are many, but with that little bundle come countless decisions. From feedings and sleep schedules to tummy time and bath time, each new milestone is exciting but can be truly overwhelming. What new mums and dads crave most (except maybe a good night’s sleep), are recommendations from a reliable source about what is best for their baby, whether from a close friend or a trusted brand. Kiehl’s caters to the skincare needs of the company’s youngest customers with the Kiehl’s Baby products. By providing formulations made from our finest, safest ingredients, Kiehl’s has been a dependable source of children’s skincare for nearly 25 years. The new Kiehl’s Baby Collection continues to provide parents with our gentlest and most trust-worthy products, giving babies a head start to a lifetime of healthy looking skin.
OUR COMMITMENT:
Kiehl’s is committed to formulating baby products with carefully selected ingredients that deliver on a promise to protect and provide comfort for baby’s sensitive skin. We specifically test our formulas to validate their gentleness and our new Gentle Foaming Hair & Body Wash, Nurturing Baby Cream for Face & Body and Baby Lip Balm are tested under Pediatric & Dermatological control.
THE KIEHL’S BABY COLLECTION:
The skin is the first protective layer against outside attacks, but it takes 10 years for children’s skin to fully develop and gain the same characteristics as adult skin.[1] This means that an infant must quickly adapt to its new environment after months in its mother’s womb.
The Kiehl’s Baby Collection was developed to help maintain the integrity of baby’s skin by providing gentle care. Formulated with a special blend of ingredients, the collection leaves skin feeling nourished and soothed, leaving baby’s delicate skin, lips, and hair feeling soft, smooth and protected.
Nurturing Oil For Mother & Baby – A Gentle Massage Formulation Enriched with Olive Fruit Oil and Apricot Kernel Oil, with 100% Natural Origin Ingredients. Our mild formulation gently nurtures baby’s delicate skin with moisture and keeps mom’s skin feeling softer and smoother, too.
Enriched with a moisturizing blend of natural Olive Fruit and Apricot Kernel oils, our replenishing formula helps soothe skin while leaving it comfortable, soft and smooth. Parents will delight in the way our formulation makes their own skin feel “baby soft!” Tested to help minimize allergy risk; sensitivity tested for daily use. RRP: €21.00
Gentle Foaming Hair & Body Wash — This multi-tasking tear-free wash gently cleanses baby’s delicate skin and hair with a mild, tear-free formula. A light, pleasant scent leaves skin smelling fresh and clean. Tested under Pediatric, Dermatological & Ophthalmological control and safe for sensitive skin. RRP: €19.00
Nurturing Baby Cream for Face & Body — A special Botanical Oils Blend of Rice Bran Oil, Apricot Kernel Oil, Olive Fruit Oil and Shea Butter works to leave baby’s skin feeling nourished and ensure its hydrated and protected all day. The Baby Cream deeply hydrates dry feeling skin by delivering 48-hour hydration while also improving the feel of skin softness and smoothness. Gentle enough to use on baby’s face. Tested under Pediatric & Dermatological control and safe for sensitive skin. RRP: €19.50
Baby Lip Balm – Hydrates and nourishes baby’s lips. The formula contains Shea Butter, a natural moisturizer and helps to leave skin feeling smooth and hydrated. Vitamin E, known for its antioxidant properties, helps soothe and protect dry feeling lips. Tested under Pediatric & Dermatological control and safe for sensitive skin. RRP: €10.00
Kiehl’s is available in stores:
Wicklow Street, Dublin 2 Here
Dundrum Here
Arnotts Here
Or online Here @ Kiehl’s
If you haven’t heard of The Pippa Palette you are seriously missing out. Since its launch it has continually sold out and the demand still remains high. Why? Well it’s the pure genius product from the fab people at Blank Canvas Cosmetics and Pippa O’Connor , Model, Presenter, Entrepreneur, blogger Pippa.ie ,Wife to Brian and mother to her adorable son Ollie to who invented this one stop shop Palette with 5 Eyeshadows, Highlighter, Bronzer/Shading/contour and Blusher all in one pretty pink palette with a mirror inside.
Perfect for any one who is happy not to have to lug around lots of products when you are going away, running late for work (it’s handy on the train,tube,Luas,Plane) as its so compact.
Pippa Palette before & after
Since I received my first Pippa Palette I have pretty much dipped in to it for every conceivable make up situation. In fact I did a whole wedding using the Pippa Palette from the Bride,4 Bridesmaids and Mum all glowed with Lulu the highlighter, Pipsy the Blusher and were contoured and shaded with Amour.
The 4 matte/satin Eyeshadows are beautiful to blend and apply and the frosted/shimmer shade eyeshadow is gorgeous to use in the inner corner of the eye to brighten up eyes, make them appear bigger and I also like to apply a tiny amount just under the brows and blend well.
Pippa Palette is €34.99 and can be bought at Here at Blank Canvas Cosmetics
I was only talking to a mother and her daughter at the daughters bridal trial last Saturday about mixing foundations to get a custom colour just for your skin tone.
For years I have used the MAC pro Face and Body White foundation to lighten foundations and mix a much darker foundation to achieve a bespoke foundation for my clients.
Now The Body Shop have brought out these handy darkening and lightening shade adjusting drops to change your foundations in a few simple steps.
Every woman I know owns a few if not more bottles of foundation which are not the right colour for her skin tone and these offerings from The Body Shop are a game changer. At €17 they will be money well spent and I will be stocking up to have them on hand for any custom bespoke blending needs.
Just think of it as an investment. Your skin gets darker during the summer as we are outside more(stay away rain) or you’ve been on a sun holiday and your foundation is too pale for you now. A drop of the darkening shade adjusting drops mixing liquid will darken your foundation a shade and a half saving you buying a darker foundation and you have this at hand. And likewise in Winter your skin gets lighter and your foundation is too dark, or you decide not to wear fake tan, a drop of this mixed with a pump of your foundation will give you a perfect foundation which blends in and no tide lines.
I sometimes use some foundation on feet to cover purple/bluish tones and this will again be a welcome hand in the mixing stakes. Making life simpler.
The Body Shop Shade Adjusting Drops available at THE BODY SHOP
I have compiled just some of my make up favourites I have been mainly using this month.
Inglot #77 Gel Liner 
This liner has become iconic in the make up world and I can vouch for that. It’s pigment is so good the black is the blackest liner I’ve come across. It’s formulation makes it easy to apply and create your desired look from a close to the lash line gentle subtle line look or a dramatic feline flick. It’s also blend-able if applied under eyeshadow to give you a dark smoky eye. Use it in the water line to smoke out the eyes and give a sexy smouldery look. This liner is a staple in my kit and I would be lost without it, I always have a spare. It’s waterproof too which means if you have “leaky eye” or may cry at the wedding you are attending your eyeliner won’t be ruined 💋
Inglot AMC Eyeliner gel is €15 Get it online here Inglot.ie
Bourjois Java Rice Powder
I picked up this Bourjois Java Rice powder as I’d read quite a few bloggers on about it and I decided to check it out. Always in search of products to give that “glow” and serial Magpie that I am I couldn’t not, could I?
I ordered it online from Boots and picked it up in my local store two days later. On first impression I fell in love with the cute vintage packaging and couldn’t wait to get home to try it.
I’ve been using it daily now on myself and a few clients and I love it. I have applied it all over my face and also just where I want highlighting on cheekbones, down the nose and on collar bones and it’s finish is subtle and gives a gentle glow. I love the rose scent but this does fade throughout the day. I love the little swivel sifter inside which prevents you using too much and can also help wasting should it fall.
Bourjois Java Rice Powder is €12.99 available at Boots
Make Up For Ever HD Foundation
One of my all time favourite foundations! The coverage is amazing making application time so much faster. It’s so easy to apply and blend and because the coverage is so good it cuts down on concealing. I find after applying Make Up For Ever HD foundation my clients skin is flawless and may only need a minimal amount of concealer for spots which have a lot of redness or stubborn dark under eye colouring which is easily covered with either a few strokes of foundation or a small amount of concealer.
HD Foundation is an oil-free medium-to-full coverage liquid foundation which covers skin imperfections, while remaining invisible on-screen and in real life. It is available in a wide range of shades to suit all skin tones.
Make Up For Ever HD Foundation is €40.50 available here Make Up For Ever
Charlotte Tilbury Colour Chameleon pencils
I am in love with Champagne Diamonds and Dark Pearl.
Champagne Diamonds was designed to bring out the colour gemstone in your blue eyes and add sparkle to your eye make up.
Dark Pearl is designed to bring out the gemstone sparkle in brown eyes. 
Thes eyeshadow pencils are easy to apply and as the product is soft in texture it doesn’t drag along the eye and is so easy to blend and smudge out.
I love applying Champagne Diamonds in the inner corner of the eye to open up small eyes and highlight the area adding a bit of sparkle too.
Dark Pearl gives anyone the ability to create a fast smoky eye.
If you want to have a subtle smoky eye I suggest applying the pencil as close to the upper and lower lash line and smudging out with your ring finger or a blending eye brush. Applying a small amount of eyeshadow over this an blending will help set it and last you all day.
For a more dramatic look, apply the Dark Pearl pencil eyeshadow all over your eyelid and blend with a brush or your fingers to smudge out any lines and blend into your socket line. I like to pat on a Similar brown eyeshadow or waned brown to set and make it stay put.
Charlotte Tilbury Colour Chameleon pencils are €25 and you can shop here Brown Thomas
CATRICE Liquid Camouflage High Coverage concealer
If you haven’t got this concealer in your make up bag or heard the rave reviews about it you need to snap one up! I love colours 010 and 020
It’s my Beauty Budget Buy of the month.
The light but creamy consistency of this concealer makes it perfect for all your concealing needs. Perfect for hiding spots or blemishes, dark circles or discolouration, pigmentation and also fab for highlighting your features and giving your face dimension.
I apply it with the applicator and blend under eyes with tip of my ring finger gently patting the product to blend it in. To conceal spots or blemishes I apply the product to the back of my hand and with a cotton bud dot it where needed and blend with a soft brush making sure not to over blend and remove the product. Setting the concealer with some setting powder ensures it will not move for the day. It’s also waterproof so great for the summer months when we are all a bit more active.
CATRICE Liquid Camouflage High Coverage Concealers are €3.95 shop online here @ Meaghers.ie or in Penneys and Pharmacies Nationwide
The lovely people from Tan Organic sent me this self tanning oil a couple of months ago and I have been trying it out.
The tanning oil is made with a unique blend of 8 different plant oils including Borage seed oil, Argan oil and Orange peel oil. TanOrganic’s Self-Tanning Oil has a subtle citrus fragrance with a hint of rose. It adds a natural bronzed effect to the skin and is lighter than our Original Self-tan but darker than a gradual tanner.
At first I was scared by the clear consistency of this oil as I am so used to applying a tinted self tanner. The first time I applied it I missed a few areas as I was in a rush to get out the door but simply applied some more to the areas I missed and it blended in perfectly.
I recommend exfoliating and moisturising all areas that are prone to dryness prior to applying the oil but to my delight it didn’t actually cling to my normally clingy dry areas as much as other tans I’ve tried.
I’ve got my application perfected now as I start on my legs first then work my way up and this way I don’t miss an area. To make the tan even and blended I apply it at night and shower in the morning.
What Tan Organic say about it:
Our super luxurious tan for the ultimate natural-looking, radiant glow that lasts for days and fades perfectly. Made wholly from natural ingredients and suitable for all skin tones with a quick-drying formula that will also moisturise for up to 7 days.
ALL NATURAL INGREDIENTS : TanOrganic is the worlds first and only Eco-certified Self-tanning brand and made wholly from natural and organic ingredients.
NO FAKE TAN SMELL : TanOrganic’s all natural formula contains no perfume’s or fragrances, so no more nasty fake tan smell.
FUSS FREE APPLICATION : Super simple to use, just apply like any other body oil, wipe the palms of your hands and you’re done.
QUICK DRYING AND ZERO TRANSFER : TanOrganic’s Self-tanning Oil is absorbed very quickly into the skin and is a clear liquid, so there is no risk of transferring to your sheets or clothes.
Tan Organic Self Tanning Oil is €24.99 and is available online Here or check Here for a stockist near you.
I have been using Buff for a long time now so I thought I should share my findings.
The HD foundation lives up to its name and the coverage is great and it does give the skin a flawless finish.
The colours are good too, my most popular shades are c25&c35 yellow undertones which calm down any red/pink tones in the skin. It’s a build-able foundation too, so, if you like full coverage this is for you! It photographs great too and doesn’t leave your face looking lighter than your body.
My only gripe is that they are only 20ml, I wish they did a larger size!
There is no obvious scent or fragrance from the Buff HD foundation as I know a lot of people find fragrances in make up can be overpowering.
Buff HD Foundation €30 buy Here online or from
Weir’s Pharmacy, Mullingar Here
Movie Star Sheer Glo:
I love this illuminating liquid from buff! It’s formulation is like magic liquid for the skin. I have been using this on myself and clients and it gives a definite glow to the skin without it looking too oily or glittery.
You can apply it to areas you wish to highlight : cheekbones, down the centre of the nose, enhance your lips and apply on your Cupid’s bow, highlight your collar bones, shins(front of your legs).
I have also applied it all over the face (avoiding eye area) under foundation and it gives a soft focus, blurred effect to skin. If you love glowing skin, you will love this product.
Buff Movie Star Sheer Glo is €32 available online Here
Or in Weir’s Pharmacy Mullingar.
I picked up two of the lasting lipsticks from Wet N Wild a few months ago and have been trying them out on myself and on clients. I am impressed with the colour payoff, the pigment, the creamy consistency and the lasting power. They last about 4-5hrs even through eating and drinking, talking, rubbing lips together and general life! I’ve also applied the lipstick,blotted with tissue, reapplied, set with loose powder and they last much longer, you could get up to 8hrs if you follow this process.
The two colours I chose are E902C Bare It All a gorgeous nude colour which has been hailed as a dupe for Velvet Teddy from MAC a Kylie Jenner favourite before she designed and created her own range.
The second colour is E912C In The Flesh is a pink lipstick I love, gorgeous as a daytime pick me up. My daughter said “your eyes pop when you wear that colour Mummy” it’s also been a popular colour with brides as it’s a pink with depth and the lasting power means less time topping up during the day.
Wet N Wild is available in pharmacies Nationwide. Or contact them to find your stockist! 💋
Wet N Wild Mega Last lipsticks are €2.99 Wet N Wild
My love for this oil started on a shoot with Frock n Fabulous and the beautiful Model Jo Archbold let me in on her beautiful skin secret…. 
Since then I was delighted when Tan Organic sent me some to try. I’ve brought it with me everywhere and used it on everyone and everything.
The biggest plus for me is the fact it can be used for hair, skin, hands, dry skin, tight skin, just wonderful and the smell is so gorgeous and light and it dries so quickly too which means it’s perfect to apply after the shower in the morning before you get dressed.
I decided to try this on my “winter feet” ( dry from winter,cold weather) and put my socks on and slept overnight. The next morning my skin has improved, it definitely worked. I’ve also added it to my bath and have used it on the ends of my hair to make them appear less dry. It’s also great for little fly away hairs instead of using hair products and as its moisturising it nourished the hairs and scalp and improved the appearance too.
Tan Organic is available in Pharmacies nationwide or online Here
A few months ago I saw these in Boots and decided to give them a go. After all I loved the Botanics All Bright Radiance Balm.
I was really disappointed with these. I used them for two weeks and I had a break out , lots of spots and they just didn’t agree with my skin at all. So I’ve given them to my mum to try.
At least they were reasonably priced and I’ve got my skin back to normal now.
Ann-Marie Carey Judd Make Up 