Tag Archives: beauty blogger

Pretty Professional Make Up Brushes by Nima Brushes

Leave a reply


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

Review: Microneedling my honest take on it 

Leave a reply


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. 

​

​
What was your skin like afterwards?

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


Kiehls is coming to Cork

Leave a reply


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. 


Kiehls.com

Bat for lashes with Catrice Cosmetics! 

Leave a reply

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!
 

Primark/Penneys got their Glow 

Leave a reply


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! 

The Make Up Fairy has just unveiled her first product! 

Leave a reply


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

http://www.joannelarby.com/shop/ 

Lancôme L’Absolu Rouge new lipsticks and packaging Launch 

1 Reply


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. 

Microneedling : My first treatment in Biofresh

Leave a reply

Today I visited Biofresh in Swords to have my first treatment of microneedling. ​​​

​​​​​I have heard it does wonders to your skin making it younger, firmer,clearer and softer! ​​​​​

​I will do a full review but for now I just wanted to keep you all updated 💋​​​

Contact  Biofresh to book your treatment Here
​​​

PS Penneys/Primark Bath & Body Collection review 

Leave a reply

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. 

​

​
I gave my Mum the Pink Grapefruit products to try and she is loving them, she’s particularly loving the scent and the hand cream is perfect for her as it’s not too overwhelming. 

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

Win an ACNE OUT KIT from BioFresh Skin care

1 Reply

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 💋

Ann-Marie Carey Make Up

Acne Out
ACNE OUT IS AVAILABLE FROM BIOFRESH STORES IN SWORDS AND DROGHEDA,SELECTED PHARMACIES NATIONWIDE AND ONLINE AT Biofreshskincare.ie

CATRICE Back to Black for Autumn with Noir Noir!

Leave a reply

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 skin care review 

Leave a reply

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 

Pestle and Mortar Pure Hyaluronic Serum review

Leave a reply

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.

How to fix broken Eyeshadows/ bronzers/powders 

Leave a reply

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! 💋

PS Pro Make Up From Penneys/Primark 

Leave a reply

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 

Confetti Cover Shoot – Get the Look 

Leave a reply

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

Hot Lips from Charlotte Tilbury

Leave a reply

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!

​

​

Kim K W is a beautiful nude lipstick, less of an orange undertone than Nude Kate and versatile enough to suit most skin types. Perfect with a dark smoky eye and beautiful alone or with gloss on top. 

​

​


Hot Lips are €30.00 and are available from Charlotte Tilbury online Here Or At Brown Thomas Here

Get The Look: Confetti Magazine with Cover Girl Katie Larmour

Leave a reply

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 hereTo 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 hereThe 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 hereSetting 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

Get The Look, Cover Shoot for Confetti Wedding Magazine

Leave a reply

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:

  • Pippa Palette
  • Master Series One Palette
  • Contour cream palette 
  • Powder contour palette
  • Brushes

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

My May Make up Favourites 

Leave a reply

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. 


Products from The Balm:

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.



Time Balm Primer: smoothes out skin and blurs fine lines to give skin a great base before applying foundation. I only apply this to the t-zone and its so light and easy to work with. 



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

Grandiose Liner & Grandiose Extréme Mascara

Leave a reply

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.

​

​
My first impression of the Grandiose Liner was an instant desire to click,click the liner applicator which enables the user to slant the brush with a single click. No more polling yourself in the eye when trying to create a beautifully lined eye, Lancôme has come up with the genius idea and it didn’t disappoint. 

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

Brown Thomas

Flormar Double Radiance Primer Highlighter 

Leave a reply

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. 


On good skin days I’ve worn this on it’s own over my moisturiser or BBcream but it’s also beautiful with foundation for a night out or for work. 

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. 


Flormar is available world wide and in Ireland you can find your nearest stockist here Flormar Ireland 

My March Make Up Favourites 

Leave a reply

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 

Review: Tan Organic, Self tanning oil 

Leave a reply

  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. 

Review: BUFF HD foundation and Sheer Glo Movie Star

Leave a reply

 
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.

Review of Cocoa Brown Golden Goddess oil

Leave a reply

  This gorgeous Golden Goddess oil created by Marrissa Carter is definitely one product every girl should have.   I’ve used it on myself, brides, models on shoots and the effect is just brilliant. I’ve used it on cheek bones to highlight and add a bit of shimmer for girls on a night out.  Yesterday I applied it to my bride as her arms needed a little glamming up and it gives a lovely sheen to the skin without looking too glittery.  The stunning Jo Archbold from Morgan The Agency for Frocknfabulous

A lot of my clients have since bought it after seeing it in action and how flattering it is.   

I applied Golden Goddess oil on the beautiful Grace O’Mahony on the cover on of our Confetti Magazine Summer Shoot. 

Uses: 

I’ve applied it to collar bones to accentuate the neck lines. 

It’s been applied to models arms and legs at shoots to take the bare look away and it looks amazing in photos. 

Oh, I forgot to mention how delicious it smells too. 

Cocoa Brown Golden Goddess oil can be bought in Meaghers Pharmacy or CocoaBrown.ie