You all know by now I am a beauty addict… I am always on-top of the latest beauty releases, researches and trends. When that said, I like to keep my routine consistent (as I talk about in this post), but making sure I change up the products I use every 2-3 months. I am quite lucky in the sense that my skin is very normal and (fortunately) adapts to just about all types of skin and make-up brands.
When that said, I have my firm favourites (there is a lot) – a mixture of classic industry icons prevailing season after season, and some new kids on the block. InStyle Magazine recently revealed their Best Beauty Buys for 2015 (products available from John Lewis), some of which are already long-standing favourites – and others I had never tried previously. The world of beauty is overwhelming at times – there are so many products and brands out there, all promising you natural glow, long lashes, diminished lines and bright skin…. Following already tried-and-tested award winners selected by make-up artists, facialists, hairstylists, dermatologists and nail technicians – certainly helps filter out the good from the bad. With over 105 winners (phew!), here are some of my personal favourites from the InStyle awards…
1. Sisley Black Rose Cream Mask
Sure, the price tag on this is pretty hefty (to say the least) but in my opinion, its worth every penny! Enriched with anti-aging active ingredients, this mask from Sisley is filled with vitamins, amino acids, Trace elements and Shea butter – making a beautiful concoction for toning, revitalising, enhancing radiance and luminosity, nourishing and plumping the skin. When my face is feeling dull and dry, or I am going through a tired spell (especially during the cold winter months), I use this face mask 2-3 times a week for a good few weeks, to revitalise and brighten my complexion. It really does what it says on the tin (hence why I am justifying the price), and I only ever use it when my skin really needs an extra boost, meaning it keeps for longer.
2. Laura Mercier Foundation Primer Radiance
I have tried so many primers before and after this one from Laura Mercier, but I always seem to go back! It really enhances that natural glow with the universal pearl tint (suitable for all skin types), smoothes, protects and minimises imperfections. Applied prior to my regular foundation (make sure you let it sink in first!) – it leaves my make-up looking fresh and smooth all-day! This is one of the few products which is always with me when I am on-the-go.
3. Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector
This is a relatively new product that I only recently tried, and love it so far! I suffer from patches of uneven skin tone, pigmentation and dark spots – effects from sun damage (caused by years living in Australia and Barcelona, using too low factor!). Luckily, I am older and wiser now – but the discolourations are still there. I have found that this Corrector from Clinique has minimised what was already there, and hopefully as its enriched with anti-oxidants, it will prevent future darkening.
4. Clinique Even Better Eyes Dark Circle Corrector
I am all about taking care of the eye area – its so important as its such a fragile and thin part of your face which is more sensitive and prone to lines. I suffer with my sleep from time to time, which means my eye area often feels quite puffy in the mornings; this lightweight and cooling Corrector from Clinique, really brightens, plumps and re-freshes my tired-looking eyes.
5. bareMinerals Original SPF15 Foundation
If you’re looking for a lightweight, natural and pure foundation (with SPF), bareMinerals is definitely the one, being a classic industry favourite for years. It really gives you that natural luminous glow, feels like cream yet buffs on like silk. Although it does cover up and gives you that smooth finish – it´s not an intense or thick foundation; hence why I would personally recommend it more for day-time use (all depending on what you´re after!).
6. Guerlain Terracotta Moisturising Bronzing Powder
Another product I have been using for years, and although I have tried many other bronzers in-between – this one from Guerlain is by far the best one! I love that it leaves your skin super soft and gives you a really natural and smooth-looking tan. Its also super lightweight, meaning its pretty much with me wherever I go!
Lashes has always been ´my thing` (maybe a bit too much in the past) – but I definitely like them long and full-bodied, which help brighten and enhance my eyes. When it comes to mascara – I am not very loyal, and I like to change it up a lot! I have many favourites on the high street – but the one that has prevailed for me within the more higher end of the price scale, is this iconic Hypnôse mascara from Lancôme. Firstly, it lasts for ages, it doesnt leave your lashes heavy or clumpy – yet it makes them really long and thick (I tend to do 2-3 layers – depending on the occasion).
And there you have it! Obviously, there were a lot of other amazing products in the final list I really love – but these are definitely some of my stand-outs! Which are your favourites?
