Ghostly Glow Powder

Sticking with the theme of powders this morning, I want to tell you about another product of pressed powder that I have used.

This is the Rimmel Stay Matte powder in 'peach glow'.


The product itself is very nice; it does not achieve that awful 'cake-face' that many of us (especially teens pre-2000s) are all too familiar with, it is applied smoothly and evenly, and there is a lovely design on the powder to begin with.

However, I wore this powder atop my foundation several times and could not quite figure out what was wrong...

Now, as I said, I have the 'peach glow' shade, and I should inform you that I chose this as a perfect match to my skin tone in-store. The others looked too pale or too dark...

It wasn't until I was going for a job interview one day and, whilst trying to make myself look as perfect as possible, I noticed that there was a bit of a dullness to my face. Peculiar, I thought, and added a touch of my other powder (Collection 2000 - Lasting Perfection). This was probably not the best idea I've ever had as my face now felt weighed down slightly with all the foundation and powder I had applied, but it put my face back to an even tone and I felt relatively happy.

So, fast forward to the evening when I was going to a party...I was in a rush so had forgotten about the powder mis-hap from the morning and applied Rimmel's powder again.

This did not bode well for pictures that were taken of me.

It was when those pictures popped up on Facebook that I vowed never to use that powder again. Our relationship was over! I cannot express to you how much I looked like Casper the friendly ghost in these pictures. Seriously...I looked ill!

I can only assume that the flash from the camera highlighted the powder and created a pale glow rather than a 'peach glow'. I was mortified.

So, even though the product itself is very lovely, it is not deemed a winner with me due to the effects it has, particularly in pictures, which is what 90% of our lives are made up of nowadays with social media sites.

Top pro: The design on the powder is a nice touch.

Lowest con: The 'evil dead' effect.

Loula Rating: 5/10

Lots of Loula Love xxx

Ready, Set, Powder..

Trying to find a good powder that doesn't turn you into Casper or the Tango Man is an art form.

I have tested many a powder in the stores to try and discover a powder which finishes off my make-up by setting my foundation in an even tone.

The best one that I came across was Collection 2000's Lasting Perfection.

The shade I use is in 'medium'.




I had the same product previously but it came in a different compact which was teamed with a sponge! Fabulous, I thought, but when I needed to replace said product, the new designed compact did not come with a sponge. Hmm!

In the picture, the white pad you can see is from Boots. I suggest you purchase something similar alongside this powder in order to apply it successfully.

The powder is not loose but you still need to gauge the amount you apply on top of your foundation so that you avoid looking 'cakey'. Word on the street: that is not a yummy look!

Top pro: The shades are natural looking.

Lowest con: No sponge (yes, this bothers me)

Loula Rating: 9/10

Lots of Loula Love xxx

It's a fine line...

It's safe to say that liquid eyeliner is my "go to" liner, whether I want to achieve a fine sophisticated outline of my peepers or if I'm looking for something more dramatic.

Like mascara, I have tried numerous liners in my time but I am going to point you in the direction of my favourite. This is the product I always go to in my make-up box and the one that I always buy more of when I run out (even though it lasts bloomin' ages!!)...




Collection 2000's Fast Stroke may not be tremendously prestigious but I love an underrated product!

The nib (!) is stiff enough to have control over the line you create and it is also pointed but slightly dense for you to produce a thin or thick line, dependent on your mood.

Top pro: The bottle looks small but don't be deceived; this eyeliner will last ages!

Lowest Con: I can't think of one at the mo..

Loula Rating: 10/10

Lots of Loula Love xxx

Pump it and plump it!

Mascara, mascara, mascara!

How difficult is it to find a mascara that lengthens your lashes, makes them look thicker and doesn't clump them together so that you end up looking like you have spider eyes?

Although that question was rhetorical, I will answer it with very!

However, I have been lucky enough to stumble upon a crackin' mascara which I loved so much that I bought the same one again once I'd ran out (something I never do as I always tend to try different mascaras in the hope that one day I shall seek the magic wand!).  I love this mascara that much that I don't even wear false eyelashes that often anymore!

So, "what is this magical mascara then?" I hear you cry!  Well, let me put you out of your misery...it is actually... Rimmel's Glam'Eyes Day 2 Night

There are two ways to apply the mascara; you can either make them nice and thick by using the pink section or you can lengthen them using the black part, which drains off the excess mascara by being pulled through the tube of the pink section.

Here is a picture of me (yes, taken on snapchat) after using the mascara - as you can see my eyelashes look long and defined, rather than clumped together (which I find is often the case); a friend even thought that I was wearing false eyelashes in the picture but I promise that I wasn't.  This is the result of the Day 2 Night mascara.  (No idea why I'm sporting the duck pout...)

Top Pro: Long, defined eyelashes.  Do I need to say any more?

Lowest Con: I found the mascara dries out rather quickly so, unfortunately, you may need to replace sooner than you'd expect.  However, this could have been a result of overuse because I loved it so much...

Loula's Rating: 10/10

Lots of Loula Love xxx

Blend it, baby!

Ahh, the debate continues with regard to which is better, the foundation brush, the stippling brush, or the basic use of fingers.

I have tried all of these techniques to blend in my foundation in order to achieve that desired airbrushed finish, and I have to say that all three techniques do indeed have their merits but, for me, the winner has to be the stippling brush.  (It's important for me to note here that I no longer use my fingers to blend in foundation; I found that the oils just pushed the liquid around my face and didn't really achieve a natural look)

I have only recently been introduced to the stippling brush and, prior to about April time, I had no idea that such a brush existed.  Since its entrance into my life I have to admit that my trusted foundation brushes (I own an Estee Lauder one and a Kelly Brook one [about £5.00 from New Look, if my memory serves me correctly]) have been shelved for the time being...

Although I find the foundation brush to be very good at its job, I always felt that I was going over and over my face countless times in order to blend my foundation in effectively.  I didn't know any different so it wasn't such a big deal at the time; since purchasing a stippling brush I feel that the airbrushed finish (and no streaks) is achieved pretty much instantly and the brush provides great coverage so that you don't need to use too much foundation (bonus!).

Now, I know there are some excellent brushes out there (MAC tools always come out on top) but if you're on a budget, like me, I can recommend the RealTechniques by Samantha Chapman stippling brush which I purchased from Amazon for about £11.00.

As you can see, the stippling brush has a flatter brush which means that you can use various techniques (using a preferred method of your own which you will discover works best for you) rather than just 'painting' it on like you would do with a foundation brush.

Top Pro: The brush is so stylish with its pink body and black base, and the bristles are so soft that you will be afraid to use it in case the foundation sends them stiff (but don't worry, they continue to be just as soft).

Lowest Con: (From what I remember) The package does not provide instructions for coverage, so if you are a beginner with the stippling brush, it's best to apply your foundation by putting a blob of it on the back of your hand, rolling it out slightly with your finger, dabbing the bristles onto the liquid and then applying it in circular motions to your face.  There are some really effective tutorials on YouTube which can guide you if you are unsure.

Loula Rating: 9/10

Lots of Loula Love xxx

Double Wear = Double Fun

We've all been there, ladies, when you get to the end of the day and you feel like heading out for a bite to eat with your family, a few drinks with the girls after work, or even heading home to see that special someone who you've been looking forward to seeing all day long...but to your horror, you catch a glimpse in the mirror and think "Good Grief! Have I looked like that all day?"

Chances are, no you have not!  But after a few hours, your make-up may have shifted slightly throughout the day, causing it to look less Marilyn Monroe and more Marilyn Manson by the end of the day.  I understand your pain; I've been there...many, many times.

Unfortunately, I cannot suggest a miracle cure, but I can perhaps offer a nudge in the right direction towards a fabulous foundation.  This foundation is indeed going to be one you have heard of thousands of times, so I need to emphasise its power: yes, ladies, I'm talking about...

Estee Lauder's 'Double Wear'

I have tried many foundations but I always struggle to find one that not only suits my 'combination' skin type, but also lasts longer than a few hours without eventually looking patchy.

The shade I use is 'Desert Beige' and, if I'm totally honest, I would probably benefit from a lighter shade to suit my skin tone; however, I was feeling lazy and decided to purchase the bottle from the internet.  I do not recommend this though and I urge you to go in-store (Boots, House of Fraser, Selfridges) and speak to the specialists - they really do know what they are doing!  My friend has the shade 'Pebble' and that looks lovely on her skin.

If you're not too sure, you don't have to purchase the item there and then; ask for a few sample bottles.  They last ages and you can always try a different shade without spending any money on the wrong product for you.

Top Pro: 'Double Wear' does exactly what it says on the tin and lasts double the length of a normal foundation; so you don't have to worry about reapplying of an evening.  You're good to go!

Lowest Con: The price will most likely be the thing that puts you off purchasing this foundation, but I do promise that it's an investment rather than a splurge, so do treat yourself as it will pay off!

Loula Rating: 10/10

Lots of Loula Love xxx

It's a little bit moist..

If you have dry skin like me, you will know how awful it is to put on any kind of make-up without moisturising! I know there are loads of products out there, many which are fabulous, but for me I find that nothing is more trustworthy than good, old-fashioned E45 lotion!

Pour out the teensiest drop possible onto your finger and that seems to cover your skin from head to toe!! OK, a slight exaggeration, but it does offer great coverage which means it lasts for ages!


What moisturiser do you find works best for you?

Stay beautiful!
Loula xxx

I'm baaaaack

It has been so long since I've blogged, but I'm hoping to get back into it and particularly focus on my beauty blog.

I'm in no way a professional beautician, but I'm hoping that that makes my posts more relatable as I won't be scaring you off with any jargon. However, I'm a big fan of all the techniques that the pros come up with so am in now way trying to deter you from seeking advice from them!!

Feel free to leave comments on any of my posts and follow my blog... Watch this space for my own hints and tips which I have picked up along the way..!

Lots of Loula Love xxx

The curious case of the Ugg boots...

I was asked last night if I was "expecting snow" because I had my woollen Uggs on.

Tut!

Granted, the lady who asked is of an older generation but I did not have the time, or the patience, to explain their magic.

I answered with a simple "yes", which is not too unusual seeing as I live in England...!


- Loulabella posting from her iPhone

New Earrings

I had to share this purchase with you as I was quite excited about it...

These are my new earrings from Freedom at


If, for any reason, you have had a moment of madness and can't quite figure out what they are...they are jewelled owls!

£6.50! And I also had 10% knocked off with my student discount.

I am wearing these bad boys to the wedding I am attending today.

I am sure they will be a hoot...


- Loulabella posting from her iPhone

Bed Head - Small Talk

Blah Blah Blah...

That's actually the slogan associated with this Bed Head product, I'm not actually dismissing it!

In fact, after several days' use of this product, I would recommend it to anyone who has a hair type similar to my own (fine, a bit fluffy at the ends, and in desperate need of a volumising lift).


Bizarrely, there appear to be no directions as to how to use this product. I took a chance and applied a generous amount to my damp hair before blow drying it. I'm still not sure if that's what I was supposed to do, so if anyone can enlighten me I would very much appreciate it. However, so far it seems to have worked...

Did it provide a beautiful mane that cascaded down my shoulders like a movie star?

Erm...no!

So, I probably would not say 'Small Talk' did what it says it should on the tin, but it did make my hair feel softer and less knotted, which it usually does as the day goes by.

Also, it has a very sweet blueberry smell to it that certainly can seem a bit sickly - you can smell it all day. BUT, it's not too bad, and certainly smells better than most other products. It will certainly capture the attention of that guy you've got your eye on, as his super sniffing snout won't be able to ignore that pleasant smell that wafts by as you walk past! (Remember: you may have to smell it all day but he doesn't!)

Loula's verdict: Recommended! It's worth a buy if you want a product to soften your locks and supply an attractive smell to your barnet! It's also a very cute purple bottle that brightens up your dressing table...

Loula's Tip: Don't purchase this product from your hair salon! It will cost a fortune!! Instead, get it from eBay. I managed to nab two for the price of one.

Don't buy this product if you are expecting miracles!!


- Loulabella posting from her iPhone

So Simple!

As I have what is known as 'combination' skin, I suffer from both dry and oily skin.

My T-Zone can be a problem!

So, finding a moisturiser that is within my price range and combats both problem areas has always been a tough task.

However, I was recommended by a friend to use Simple's moisturiser. It was a God-send.

Initially, I used the Light Moisturiser but, as that has ran out recently, I am currently using the richer one. Personally, I think both work as well as each other.


If you do purchase either of these, just remember that you don't need to use as much of the rich moisturiser - it could indeed have an adverse effect and make any oily areas worse.

I use after a shower and just before I apply my make-up. I only tend to use it once a day, rather than twice.

Loula Rating: *****

- Loulabella posting from her iPhone

Which Lash?

I'm trying to decide which lashes will look best for the wedding tomorrow?

Do I go for subtly sexy with the ones on the left, or opt for dramatic effect with the lashes on the right?


Both products are by Revlon and are of the 'Beyond Natural' edition.
Left: Dramatic X3 Volume
Right: Double Wink

What to do, what to do...?!

P.S. Just to clarify, it's not my wedding!

- Loulabella posting from her iPhone

Pink makes the boys wink...

Right, let me start by confirming that I do not usually buy such extravagantly expensive products but this lipstick was actually purchased for me by MommaBear yesterday.

A special little treat for the wedding we are going to tomorrow.

Now, pink is certainly my favourite colour. And, as you can see from the picture provided below, this certainly is pink!



It is an Estee Lauder product, so it is a little pricey. I'm not sure how much it was as I didn't want to be cheeky and ask MB.


It is called 'Brilliant Pink' and is code Sig 52.

However, it is indeed beautiful and very much worth the price for a special occasion. I'm very impressed with how long it actually lasts, and with some subtle (or even heavy) eye make-up I am assuming it will certainly give my outfit that extra POP tomorrow.

I will provide a picture of me in my outfit, and lipstick, for you to 'make-up' your own mind about whether it works or not.

Feedback is always appreciated!


- Loulabella posting from her iPhone

Welcome!

Hello all.

I think I've pretty much covered what this blog will be for but I just wanted to say 'Hi' to you all.

Like I have already said, everyone is welcome here and I don't want it to be patronising in any way, like many of the beauty blogs/websites out there (I am not an expert in the slightest when it comes to beauty, hair or fashion so hopefully that won't happen) - I just want to share all of my trial and error experiences.

And, trust me, there will be many...

So, thank you for stopping by. I look forward to hearing from you.

Much Loula Love xxx

- Loulabella posting from her iPhone