New In | Feb 2015 [Beauty]



I've not switched up my makeup routine in a long time and I thought it was about time I tried something new, notably the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge (£5.99) and MAC Pro Longwear Foundation (£25).

I've always loved my MAC Studio Sculpt Foundation as the texture and coverage is amazing. I've stuck with it for 5 years as it looks so good when it's applied. Unfortunately it just doesn't last on my oily skin quite long enough. I've tried to make the foundation last longer with the aid of a primer, a setting spray and even by mixing it with another of MAC's foundations but my skin always wins and kicks this product off my face. I finally resigned to buying a new foundation altogether. It was this old video by Sammi from Beautycrush in which she compares various different MAC foundations which convinced me to switch to Pro Longwear Foundation. So far it has not disappointed.

The texture of this foundation is so different to the Sculpt. It's really lightweight and leaves a really smooth finish which thankfully lasts a lot longer. The coverage of this product is sheer to medium and whilst I usually prefer as high coverage as possible, the finish is so natural-looking I don't mind some of my blemishes peeping through my makeup (as much).

As well as a new foundation I also bought a new makeup sponge. I used to love using sponges to apply makeup and I'm not quite sure why I stopped. With the right sponge your makeup can look like skin and who doesn't want that as opposed to cake face? I've been tempted by the Beauty Blender which has received so much hype over the web but I just can't part with 16 whole pounds for a sponge! I love the Real Techniques brushes I own, so their Miracle Complexion Sponge (and the fact that it's more purse-friendly) seemed like a natural fit.

Admittedly I had to watch Sam's video here on how to use the sponge first as the different edges have different uses. The flat side at the bottom helps apply makeup to the face, the round side blends product out and the pointed edge is great for applying concealer. The design of the sponge in general helps it serve various functions and for a relatively cheap buy I'm really impressed with the results.

What having you been buying lately?

Lesley x

Comments

  1. Very nice3 :)

    http://sbr-fashion-fashion.blogspot.com/

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  2. I love MAC products. I just bought a concealer and some lip products. I am giving away a MAC gift card. Come check it out!

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  3. I love the sponge! I'm using the beautyblender sponge and it is amazing. It makes my skin look so good in photos and real life.

    The Style Boro

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    1. Oooh glad you like the Beauty Blender :), I always read good things about it x

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  4. The beauty blender dupes work just as well. I love applying my make it with it. Btw i love Mac foundations

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    Replies
    1. I really like the one I have so thankfully there's dupes! x

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  5. Hey there, just wanted to say I really enjoy reading your reviews, especially the beauty ones. As a mixed race woman with a similar complexion to yours, it’s great to get ideas and tips on make-up and beauty products I know suit my skin tone. Since reading your blog I've bought two lipsticks and a foundation based on your reviews. So cheers and keep up the good work!!, x

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  6. Nice buys.

    themeticulousperfections.blogspot.com

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  8. You should try Hourglass foundation. It's made of clay with great coverage and matte finish. I have trouble with oily skin like yours. I live in TX, USA where it's always a challenge to keep my makeup fresh. Since I've begun using Hourglass (subsequent to primer by Smashbox) I've had a lot less trouble. It stays up to 12 hours with little to no retouch (even when sweating throughout the day). It has medium coverage but layers well when heavier coverage is needed. It's pricey but worth every penny. Beware, however, colors are limited especially darker shades so I have to mix two different ones to get my desired match.

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