Mechanical Exfoliants

Woo Hoo, YAY, Yeah boi!!!  <:-P   I’m excited coz this is finally the last, concluding post of a concession, focused around the topic Serious Skin Care , which basically outlines each and every product I use in my daily/weekly skin care routine.  The subject now wrapping up this saga is Mechanical Exfoliants, products that I only utilise myself on an ‘Occasional' basis. :-/  Why only sometimes, you may wonder?  Personally, I don’t deem it as being essential for my individual routine, however, this step IS very important to many other skin care enthusiasts.  It was actually an act I had always implicated into my normal skin care routine, throughout my adult years, that was until a few years ago, when my therapist advised me it was probably not in the best interest of my skin to continue with it. :-O

I enjoyed exfoliating my skin with a manual scrub, often infused with some form of small, slightly rough particles or granules that would physically slough dead skin cells from the surface of my skin to reveal the new layer of skin underneath.  I was obviously naive or something, because I had the impression that to achieve a bright, clear complexion then implementing a skin-polishing product was vital. :-/  I also admit, at times, I was a bit too eager when it came to scrubbing my skin, later discovering that over-exfoliating strips away layers of healthy cells and reduces the skin's natural defences.  Once I was more aware of my sensitive skin issues, I continued using Mechanical Exfoliants in moderation, just once a week to reap the benefits of better skin rejuvenation, exposing a fresh, healthy, new complexion, assuring myself I wouldn’t be upsetting my delicate skin.  But, I soon I was to learn that I still had it all wrong, d’oh!   #-o

When I went for my first professional skin analysis, the first thing my therapist asked was if I was a ‘Scrubber’, as she immediately noticed the tell tale signs, which reflected with the raw, flushed appearance of my skin.  :-O  After ‘fessing up’ she introduced me to the advantages of Chemical Exfoliants that typified ingredients such as glycolic, lactic, citric, or salicylic acid to deeply penetrate the skin, assisting cell turnover and renewal, which would ideally be less traumatic for my fragile skin. :-<   At first, I was shattered!  =((   The Mechanical Exfoliants I was using of late, while quite expensive, they were indeed results orientated, so I didn’t particularly want to part with them just yet.  Nevertheless, after some deliberating my therapist said, if I really wanted to use them ‘Occasionally’ I could do so with, but with extreme caution! :-S   She went on to explain that if I carefully applied the scrubs, focusing on the outer facial regions that are a bit tougher/thicker than the weaker/thinner, more delicate areas around my nose and inner cheeks, then it shouldn’t harm or exasperate my sensitive skin. #:-S

I learnt a lot about my skin that day and ever since, I have avoided scrubbing the life out of my skin, instead opting for skin care products infused with chemical exfoliating ingredients.  These ingredients are solely incorporated into my basic skin care steps, for example Cleansing, where my glycolic-based cleanser has become a firm favourite and hence now voids the need for a separate exfoliating product.  The same two Mechanical Exfoliants that I had grown so partially fond of all those years ago are still lurking in my beauty kit today, but will remain as ‘Occassional’ staples, LOL!  :))  While they are Mechanical Exfoliants, they fortunately boast urber gentle formulations with soft particles that don’t scratch my skins surface and the added benefit of AHA’s, deliver the best of both worlds to my skin.  \:D/  Both products are exceptionally comfortable to use, but I ultimately LOVE  :x  the accelerated desired results of a super smooth, supple texture, restored lustre and the ability to achieve a vibrant, youthful-looking complexion.  :)

Here are my favourites:

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant

Microfoliant Powder form

If you have heard of Dermalogica then you have undoubtedly heard about this Exfoliant.  This beauty product has attained a ‘cult’ status and it still consistently wins legions of skin care awards worldwide on a yearly basis.  =D>  It’s easy to understand why it’s so damn popular, nobody needs a degree to notice the instantly visible results and flawless complexion staring back at you when you peer in the mirror straight after application.  Featuring a skin-brightening complex, this exclusive rice-based, enzyme Exfoliant, enriched with a professional blend of skin-boosting plant extracts and essential oils presents as a dry powder, activating as soon as it contacts water.  All I have to do is shake a little powder straight onto my damp palms and begin rubbing both hands together until it forms a ever so slightly frothy, paste-like consistency that I then go about massaging into my skin, so it can gently eliminate dead skin cells, dirt and impurities.  After rinsing, the first thing I notice is that my skin is immediately baby soft and silky smooth to touch.  :)  My face isn’t left taut or dry, nor does it appear red and irritated.  #:-S   This legendary Exfoliant prompts my skin to absolutely glow. (Oh, it’s not a greasy, oil slick, disco ball-looking glow either!  :-/  )  This glow is nothing bar pure fresh, clean, healthy radiance, which distinctly enlivens my whole complexion.  What else makes the Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant so highly acclaimed?  Well, I am inclined to say that because the powder-like texture is completely non-abrasive with built-in soothing properties, so it won’t upset or provoke vulnerable skin.  This suggests to me that it would be ideal for the most fragile skin conditions, or alternatively, it’s optimal for frequent use, as the name suggests, on a daily basis, quite unlike most other Exfoliants that need only be applied once to twice a week max.  \:D/   I mostly use this prior to getting myself all ‘dolled-up’  as I can be quietly confident knowing my skin will remarkably de-congest upon application, which for me means less pesky pimples or blackheads, as well as the security that it always  preserves minimal or at least, a more balanced pH level as well (YAY, no greasy shine!! <:-P ).  So why else do I primarily prefer this Exfoliant ahead of special occasions?  It’s simple really, because my skin is automatically transformed into a perfectly smooth canvas, ready for makeup application without a hitch and a guaranteed longer-lasting, luminous finish.  This is one skin care superstar that needs no recommendations; earning all rights to its award-winning, reputable stature. (*)

Microfoliant paste-like when damp

Microfoliant frothy with extra water

 

Dermalogica AGE Smart MultiVitamin Thermafoliant

This is my personal 'jewel' of the Dermalogica range.  B-) This is the Exfoliant that I have personally used the longest, even though it has me straying from my urge to normally resist Mechanical Exfoliants, when it comes to one that I am extremely partial to, I just make an exception.  ;)  The results speak for themselves and by totally revitalising my lacklustre skin so convincingly; I couldn’t give it up even if I wanted to, LOL!   :))   What also appeals is over time it can actually repair years of skin damage, while the instant deep-pore cleanse it provides leaves my complexion so soft, smooth and adequately hydrated the minute I wash it off.  The grains are of a fine texture to effortlessly slough away dead, dulling skin cells, but yet oh so gentle so it doesn’t aggravate my sensitive skin.  It’s potent enough to eliminate impurities and maintain a more balanced pH, therefore I notice after having used this Exfoliant, any pimples are virtually non-existent and my complexion is less prone to developing the unsightly, greasy film that tends to creep up on my oily skin during the day. (Also known as midday shine!  :-S ).  The thickly formulated scrub is unlike anything else I have ever tried, featuring thermal technology that magically warms up upon contact to allow the dynamic ingredients to better penetrate the skin.  Speaking of ingredients, this Exfoliant is an anti-ageing revelation, packed full of complex actives, antioxidants, vitamins and enzymes in a botanical concentrate, which helps to slow down and reverse the premature ageing process.  It sounds good doesn’t it? Well I can assure you, it’s not only good, it’s phenomenal.  =D> The Dermalogica AGE Smart MultiVitamin Thermafoliant is pure luxury in a tube, boasting the aromatic Dermalogica signature scent, coalesced with the unique warming action, it encourages relaxation by arousing  the senses and evoking tranquillity, for complete and utter bliss.  Oh, I didn’t mention the noticeably healthy, all-over glow that is induced on my complexion immediately after applying this scrub, see what more could you want in an Exfoliant? This one has it all and I can’t rave enough about how much I LOVE it.   :x 

Thermafoliant water added

Thermafoliant

Without any doubt, exfoliating, regardless if you prefer the Mechanical or Chemical variety, is paramount to anyone who is serious about winning the war against the visible signs of prematurely aged skin.  Boosting circulation, stimulating the natural cell turnover process, accelerating collagen production, evening and brightening the skin tone, smoothing it’s texture, minimising fine lines, targeting pigmentation and balancing pH levels are all feats that you can achieve from efoliating regularly to reverse and protect against the skins ageing process.  It’s not a miracle as it takes lots of dedication and plenty of patience, however it’s not impossible and I don’t know about you but if there is even just a glimmer of hope that I can maintain the fountain of youth for a bit longer, hehe!  ;)) Then call me vain, [-X   LOL!   :)) but, I plan to embrace the opportunity and whatever help is on hand to tackle the symptoms head on and fight for victory. b-(   Do you use an Exfoliant to help battle skin ageing or maybe for refining, polishing or clarifying your complexion to invigorate dull, lack lustre skin?  Are you a ‘Scrubber’ who uses Mechanical Exfoliants or do you normally select the Chemical style, or maybe even a dual formula featuring a combination of both?  Share your favourite or tell us about an Exfoliant that has influenced you somehow?  :)

There are three generic images in this blog, the two product images and the Dermalogica banner, however the photo's of the formulations are my own.

Treatment Skin Care Masks

Hi there beauty lovers,  :-h  this post is one of the last, concluding a series of manifestos, divulging my entire beauty prescription, including the specific products currently featured in my exclusive, personalised Serious Skin Care routine.  Thence, as to not confuse anyone,  :-/  the existing posts in this sequence, focusing on my daily beauty ritual, are showcased in a progression of blog posts, designated as Cleansing, Toning, Moisturising, Vitamin Therapy - Topical Vitamin A and C, Sun Protection, Treatment Products - Uneven Skin Tone and Pimples.  Finally, this post proffers a fundamental element of my weekly skin care program, implemented to compliment my daily regime whilst accenting the ongoing correction of my individual skin concerns; this topic has secured the title of Treatment Skin Care Masks. 

The Skinceuticals Mask in action.

I have a number of different Masks that I suitably employ to treat those distinctive skin care demands, but it all depends on how my skin is behaving,  [-X  as to which one I need or want to use.  ;)  If you are not already aware, my skin is typically oily and sometimes sensitive, however, even though it’s oily, it doesn’t mean that it can’t get dehydrated too  :-?  (This, evidently, is NOT the same as having dry skin).  Therefore, as well as trying to keep excess oil production at bay and eradicating hormonal spots, I intermittently need to deal with, my normally oily skin, brandishing the irregular, crippling affects related to surface dehydration.  The dehydration is partially caused by obvious neglect, (yep,yep, I’m afraid I AM guilty  L-)  note to one self -  remember to consume more fluids, especially during summer, d'oh!  #-o ) which can implicate the misuse of harsh, incompatible/conflicting skin care products (A reason why I always pronounce, NEVER to self-diagnose and determine your own ‘professional’ skin care products, without being appropriately informed, it’s so easy to get it wrong and whiles symptoms might not surface for some time, the damage can already be developing deep down!! EEK!   :-O  ) or, even over-exfoliating.  Nevertheless, dehydration can also be provoked by numerous other triggers, such as certain medications, illness, prolonged periods in air-conditioning, (Which is virtually unavoidable here at this time of the year), vulnerability to extreme elements and constant sun exposure (tsk tsk  [-X  ) as well as lifestyle factors and an inadequate diet. 

I utilise the benefits of these Masks, primarily to keep my skin balanced and to target congestion and unwanted zits, whilst ideally, I ultimately need a good ‘SOS’ Mask to combat the telltale signs of dehydration.  o-+  I also fancy using a Mask, mostly for cosmetic purposes,  ;;)  to boost my complexion and to encourage radiance for a healthy natural glow, which comes in handy before a special occasion or big event.  *-:)  It’s not unusual for me to occupy about four ‘go-to’ Masks, at any one time, that I alternate weekly to completely satisfy ALL of my skin care needs.  \:D/  Masks perform varied functions, from providing a deep pore cleanse, sloughing away dead skin cells, drawing out impurities, reducing the appearance of enlarged pores, absorbing and balancing excess oil, nourishing and rejuvenating the skin, although simultaneously Masks are renown for rapidly evoking the effects of a brighter, clearer, more energised-looking complexion.  >-)  

Here’s which Masks I am using ATM:

Dermalogica mediBac Sebum Clearing Masque

I have been capitalising on the remarkable benefits of this Mask for the past few years now and it has earned its place as a staple in my beauty kit.  It’s a Mask that I like to have on hand and can always rely on to prompt a fast, efficient outcome, in case of emergency.  I was sceptical when I first tried this Mask, because I don't suffer from acne, just hormonal spots and some reviews that I had been researching, claimed that it could be really drying to the skin.  Thankfully, I needn’t have been concerned, because in true Dermalogica style, this Mask actively provides simply amazing results.  It is a highly concentrated treatment Mask with deep-cleansing clays, natural plant extracts, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and powerful Salicylic Acid, which team together to pack an almighty punch.  b-(  Due to it’s potency, it’s not a Mask that I use often, however, when my skin goes crazy and freaks out,  :-&  from time to time, the anti-irritant, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties are very therapeutic to nurture and relax my stressed out complexion.  [-O<  The cooling sensation helps to soothe irritation, while the calming botanicals significantly alleviate facial redness.  I had to put this Mask to the ultimate test earlier this year, when my skin temporarily was out of control,  X(  impacted by stress, causing my skin to break out in random cystic-like pimples that wouldn’t budge with my normal skin care products or spot treatments.  ~X(  This Mask finally remedied the problem, when all else failed, thoroughly drawing out the undesirable impurities from deep in the skin.  The Dermalogica mediBac Sebum Clearing Masque always leaves my skin feeling refreshed and polished, whilst surprisingly it remains adequately hydrated.  I guess I am blessed with having oily skin in some cases, as I am glad I don’t experience any dryness when using this Mask, although I always use it in moderation.  This healing, comfort Mask works first time, every time and I am confident it won’t let me down, when it comes to a bad skin day!  :)>-

Skinceuticals Clarifying Clay Masque

This is my weapon of choice to eliminate pesky blackheads once and for all!  B-)  It is also my fist line of defence when my skin starts to become congested or excessively oily.  It’s basically a ‘DIY facial in a tub.’  (*) This deep pore cleansing, clay-based Mask features a combination of oil-absorbing clays, powerful AHA’s and a blend of botanicals that promotes instantaneous results.  I tend to use this Mask the most, as it addresses my regular skin concerns to perfection.  In fact, if I were none the wiser, I would believe somebody fabricated it using my personal stencil,  :-"  he,he!  ;))  Impurities be gone!  Right before my very eyes, I watch the effects of the dynamic AHA’s in action, opening pores and drawing out the gunk, which is so firmly lodged it’s hard to extract normally.  This process is a real eye-opener,  /:)  as the Mask begins to set, I can distinctly see all the crap lifting out from my pores.  In my opinion, this Mask is a true soldier when it comes to infiltrating blackheads and preventing their reformation.  o->  It’s also worth noting, that unlike many other clay Masks, the nourishing formulation doesn’t leave my skin dry or feeling taut, instead it delivers hydration, which prompts my complexion to look clear and naturally refined, whilst it feels replenished and ultra soft to touch.  My sensitive skin is never an issue when using this Mask, despite the mix of several highly potent skin care ingredients, it truly has a calming nature, which decreases facial redness and soothes angry, inflamed skin.  >:D<   The Skinceuticals Clarifying Clay Masque  is seriously the bomb!  While it may seem a bit pricey upfront, the evident, irrefutable outcome will absolutely conclude that this Mask is, in fact, merely an investment for more beautiful skin.  It’s definitely a keeper, that is worth every cent!  =D>

Dermalogica AGE Smart MultiVitamin Power Recovery Masque

A soothing, revitalizing, anti-ageing Mask that is not only great for mature skin, it also works a charm to remedy my skin when it is displaying the affects of dehydration.  It ensures rapid relief and an efficacious departure of the vexatious symptoms.  #:-S  This professional skin care Mask is ideal for anyone who is serious about tackling prematurely aged skin.  It boasts an extremely nourishing, replenishing formula, enriched with an assembly of scientifically proven skin recovery vitamins, including A, C, E, F and B5, in a blend of antioxidants and plant extracts, instigating a positive effect in helping the skin’s ability to heal and repair, whist protecting against future free radical damage.  When my skin is dull, tired or just incredibly worn out, I use this Mask because it encourages an eminent improvement to the appearance of my complexion and assists in the correction of any ailments.  :)  The thick, rich, creamy potion expels a delicate, citrus aroma that’s heavenly to apply, reposing into a thick layer of butter-like emollient that snugly envelopes my face.  The finish stays moist rather than drying out, making it easy to remove with warm water, without emitting any greasy residue on the skin’s surface.  The Mask doesn’t aggravate my sensitive skin, or leave it taut and parched, instead it’s completely reinvigorated, intensely hydrated and feeling soft, supple and comfortably subdued.  Whenever my skin screams that it’s thirsty and starts adopting signs of dehydration, I unleash this gentle, nurturing Mask to instantly quench its thirst.  >:/   It calms my impaired skin and reduces any redness; moreover, it boosts moisture levels and maintains sufficient hydration.  :D  The Dermalogica AGE Smart MultiVitamin Power Recovery Masque efficaciously breathes new life back into my skin.  :O)  As well as promoting an immediate response, modestly plumping my skin, smoothing the texture, restoring radiance and elevating optimal skin health, over time, this Mask is a competent armament to reverse the visible appearance of ageing skin.  In addition, long-term use of this Mask, on a regular basis, noticeably softens fine lines and wrinkles, diminishes age spots and pigmentation and reinstates elasticity, flourishing a more youthful-looking image.  I absolutely dote on the regenerating capabilities of this Mask and can always be sure it will produce swift, effective results.  I wouldn’t hesitate to constantly recommend it to anyone suffering from dull, tired, or ageing skin.  <:-P

MD Formulations Vit-A-Plus Illuminating Masque

I keep this Mask as my ‘occasional’ care Mask, to use prior to special outings or momentous affairs.  This is evidently because it’s extremely expensive and needless to say, you might call me stingy, but during these tough economical times, I need to stretch out my beauty products for as long possible,  :">  especially the costly ones conjectured as a rare delicacy, as I just can’t afford or even justify purchasing replacements on a regular basis.  I am currently on my second 75ml tube (see, it’s even very diminutive in size, considering the outrageously OTT price tag it bears  :-O  ) of this Mask, however, regardless of the cost factor, when I put it to use, I am indubitably positive that it will procure impressive results that are noticeable immediately.  :)  The superior, delightfully exhilarating Mask, developed with three of the most preeminent active ingredients available in anti-ageing skin care prevails to achieve optimum skin health and a well-rested appearance.  I-)  AHA’s, along with vitamin’s A and C amalgamate with botanical extracts in a indulgent formula, which, despite the potency, is still complimentary and bolsters to sustain my fragile skin.  The MD Formulations Vit-A-Plus Illuminating Masque effortlessly clears and brightens my complexion, evens the skin tone, reduces pigmentation and remarkably boasts skin soothing properties that promise a gentle, non-irritating experience.  :x  It thereon rejuvenates my skin, producing a softer, smoother surface texture and a purely uniform complexion that instantly stimulates an all over, naturally luminous glow.  It’s my perfect pre-event Mask that quickly revs my appearance, revealing lustrous, radiant skin that is definitely the cause for a celebration.  <:-P  A+++ I guaranteed it never disappoints!

As any respective beauty enthusiast, incessantly probing through the broad array of skin care collections currently saturating the market, will evidently perceive, there’s a myriad of options readily available when it comes to choosing your ideal Mask.  These specialty Masks, manufactured to cater for a variety of different and irregularly unusual skin concerns, adorn a mélange of formulations, suitably proposed to gratify the unique diversity of each primary skin type.  So, basically, it’s just a matter of recognising your own individual skin type and establishing your target preferences, then selecting a Mask accordingly.  ;)  

A weekly treatment Mask is an integral component of any Serious Skin Care routine, designed to reinforce a better-looking complexion and improve the overall health of the skin.  \:D/  Personally, I also enjoy the reposing qualities of a tranquilising facial Mask that incites me to relax and unwind.  I-)  I love applying a skin care Mask, then kicking back and 'zoning out' to relieve some of the built-up pressure and stresses associated with daily living, ahh, bliss!  =P~   

Have you found a treatment Mask, which meets all of your own skin care demands?  Does your favourite perform above and beyond the capabilities of any other Mask you have tried to date?  If so, please tell us all about it!  How did this particular Mask come to gain your respect and earn a coveted appraisal to secure supremacy, as your Number 1 preferred facial Mask?  :-?  If not, would you care to share the journey, while you continue searching for a skin care Mask you can accolade with a ‘Holy Grail’ status?  :-*

All product images in this post are generic, however the photograph featured at the top is my own. 

EOTD – Pink & Gold

Pink & Gold EOTD - No Flash

I am a bit late (OK, OK, I admit, heaps late, oops :">  soz peeps) with this post because I have been working on my entry into the Beauty Heaven annual Blogstar competition over the past week.  Not only did I get sidetracked and right off schedule, I also absentmindedly assumed I could post my submission straight here on my own blog as well, once the entry was surrendered. (the conditions, which I am querying only state you can't submit an existing published post, but video entries are published on YouTube, so I can't fathom why written entries shouldn't also be used on the authors personal blog??)  I was intending to outline that the work was written for the sole purpose of the Blogstar competition etc. etc. (yeah, yeah you get my drift (:| LOL ;) ) Even after investigating on the Forum and various Blogs about the subject, I have still drawn a blank, unable to determine if it's permitted or not.  :-\  After a week of deliberation, I decided NOT to risk it.  Knowing my luck, my entry would end up being deemed void and invalid, therefore, all the time and effort already spent, (mostly hours of editing to try and reduce my original post to less than 500 words  :-B :))  LOL!) might have been futile, EEK!  :-O  

Pink & Gold EOTD - Both Eyes - No Flash

Pink & Gold EOTD - Flash

Ok, so the point is, I now have to post something super fast with no preparation, Double EEK!!  :-O  :-O  Well, skimming through some photo’s from a couple of months back, I came across an EOTD (Eye of the Day) that I conjured up to harmonise with one of my favourite baby pink lip hues, the Innoxa Matte Lipstick in Pink Carnation, which I have already photographed in my Innoxa Lipsticks post a while back. #:-S  While this isn’t the same eye look that I used on that occasion, I wanted to try something new and different to compliment the gorgeous pink tincture to perfection, and well, this is what I came up with.  :)  A quick and easy eye makeup look, using only a handful of products from my beauty stash, featuring a basic combo of budget and quality cosmetic brands.  ;)

Here is what I used:

Laura Mercier Eye Basics in Wheat 

This eye makeup base is my ultimate saviour for oily lids.  The problem is non-existent if I prime my lids with this before attending to my usual eye makeup.  It creates a flawless canvas to disguise any imperfections, allowing for an effortless application that prolongs the staying power of my eye makeup to perfection so it doesn't crease or smudge or fade.  Also helps to brighten up tired eyes and leave them with a 'well-rested' appearance.

MAC Paint Pot in Chilled on Ice 

(Described as a Frosted White Gold)  It’s a creamy metallic-style pale yellowish gold that was introduced here early this year from the Mac limited edition Cham Pale collection (some good images can be viewed here).  It is more gold looking on my skin than it appears to be in the pot and the cool shimmer (not at all glittery) that is semi-sheer is ideal as an all over lid colour.  It blends seamlessly and I love that even though it has such a creamy formula, it dries quickly with no tackiness, while the intense finish stays vibrant all day.  (NB: No longer available via the Mac website)

MAC Cream Colour Base in Madly Magenta 

(Described as a Vivid Pinkish Purple)  These multi-tasking creamy colours are so handy and a ‘must have’ for all beauty cases.  They can be used on your eyes, lips, cheeks anywhere really and even though I read somewhere that this colour is NOT suitable for lips and eyes, but, I defied the perception and have found it is awesome any which way ;)  This hue springs from the Mac Stylishly Yours collection and is apparently a permanent MAC PRO only shade. (Swatches can be viewed here)  Now this is pink how I like it (my kind of pink!) :x  A cool, blue-based, bright pink with purple undertones, or similar to fuchsia more or less.  The formula is highly pigmented, providing a rich, fully opaque coverage that simply doesn't budge.  (NB: Permanent Shade at PRO stores only, but don't hold me to that  :)>- I don't have personal access to a MAC PRO store to verify this claim)

NYX Cosmetics Loose Pearl Eye Shadow in Nude 

(Described as a Subtle Shimmery Champagne)  The multi-purpose pigments are the best ultra budget cosmetic product I have ever experienced.  The finely-milled, highly concentrated almost gold (rather than nude) coloured powder definitely packs an enormous punch in terms of colour payoff and its gorgeous, pearlescent finish is ideal to highlight any makeup look.  I like these pigments as an eyeshadow or a highlighter, as a blush on my cheeks, mixed with gloss on my lips, or polish to paint my nails and even, on occasions in my hair.  Used either wet or dry, they are smooth to apply with minimal fading (especially when a primer is in place first).  The only downside is that it’s hard to access the pigment while it’s in its original pot, so it’s easier to transfer as much product as needed into another canister or a mixing medium to avoid wastage. 

Guerlain Retractable Eye Pencil in Gold 

This retractable-type liner doesn't appear to be available anymore via Guerlain, however more information on the product can be sourced here. The intense 'true' gold liner is super soft and creamy, delivering immaculate precision and is presented in quality Guerlain packaging that just screams pure ‘class’.  It glides on smooth and defines my waterline with a dramatic pop of colour that stays put for hours without regular touch-ups. The built-in sharpener is useful if you want to achieve an even more tapered point for finer lines.  (NB:  While obsolete by Guerlain, it's still readily available at many online discount outlets)

NYX Doll Eye Mascara in Waterproof Black 

I use this mascara more than many of my others, as it always enhances a brilliant, natural-looking flutter. ;;)  I prefer the Waterproof formulation, to be confident that it doesn’t wind up where it shouldn’t be and like how the design of the brush allows for perfect maneuvering to coat every lash, even the finest inner ones.  It lengthens my lashes, leaving them incredibly black and much fuller, minus any clumping or flaking. Whilst I like my lashes to look prominent, I don't go for anything too OTT (over the top) during the day, however when I need some extra 'oomph', this mascara can also be built-up for a more dramatic, nighttime effect.

Pink & Gold EOTD - Full FOTD - No Flash

This is how I did it:

After priming with the Laura Mercier Eye Basics, I created a light wash of colour all over the lid, extending to the upper orbital bone (or is it lower brow bone, bwahaha, I am not up to speed on anatomy, :)) LOL!) using the MAC Paint Pot.  I then applied the MAC Cream Colour Base along the upper lash line and lower lid, smudging slightly, extending to the outer corner and up into a V in the outer crease.  I then used the NYX Cosmetics Loose Pearl Eye Shadow underneath my brows and in the inner corner of my eyes, carefully blending into the gold wash.  Using a large brush, I dusted some loose Translucent Powder over the area to complete the blending and set the colour.  I worked the Guerlain Retractable Eye Pencil into my lower and upper waterline and along the lower lash line.  Finally, just one coat of NYX Doll Eye Mascara to both the upper and lower lashes concluded the eye look.

The lipstick that inspired this look.

Overall:

This look was simple to achieve and I thought it effectively complimented the baby pink lipstick, while promoting a soft, feminine appearance. \:D/  What do you all think?  Is it a winning combination and does it suit my eye colour?  While I love wearing pink lipsticks, I usually don't opt for pink shades on my eyes, so please give me your honest opinion. :-? Does it work??  I would also love some more colour solutions for my eyes that would be flattering when united with a baby pink lipstick hue, similar to the one pictured above.  Any suggestions?  ;)

All images in this blog are my own, with the exception of the generic product images.