Covergirl Clump Crusher by Lash Blast Mascara

Hello beauties  :-h  I’m back to do another update and upload some more posts that I’ve been meaning to publish. This next review is for a mascara that was sent to me by Tammerly, author of the lifestyle, fashion and beauty blog Spoilt.  The following is a recollection of my product experience along with my shared thoughts.  :)  You can also check out my review over on Spoilt by clicking here.

The Covergirl Clump Crusher by Lash Blast Mascara, with a curved slimline wand, promises to deliver 200% more volume with no clumps for beautifully, separated lashes.  ;;)

The first thing to catch my attention when I saw this mascara was the loud, green blister pack style packaging, housing a bulky, 13.1 ml plastic tube and a wand, both in the same brilliant green colour.   @-)  It’s typically Covergirl in design and screams Lash Blast all over.  Not sure if green is my kind of colour, but there is no doubt, it will be quick and easy to find in my makeup bag.  ;) The plastic applicator brush is curved with super fine bristles positioned close together and tapering into an ultra fine tip. This allows for easy manoeuvrability from root to tip, ensuring each individual lash, regardless of how sparse, is completely separated and coated in mascara, even in the inner corners.  The slimline wand is lightweight, but has sturdy cap that is comfortable to hold.  :D

The buildable, clump resisting formula is not wet and runny, hence no drying time, instead its drier with a smooth, silky consistency, ideal for layering.  =D>  In fact, I need two or three coats to create perfect soft, volumous lashes, which feel lightweight, flexible and look so ala-natural, while remaining totally clump-free.  I have this mascara in shade number 810, Black Brown, a rich, bold colour that is not OTT and suitable for daytime wear.  The finish is long-wearing and my lashes stay looking fresh all day long, minus any fading, smudging, running or flaking; therefore no dreaded panda eyes.  #:-S   It is free of fragrance, so it doesn’t cause irritation to my sensitive eyes and it’s easy to take off with a simple everyday eye makeup remover.  <:-P

I love this as my go-to mascara for use on a day to day basis, because it defines my lashes, making them visibly plumper and longer.  :x   If it’s drama you’re after, then this is probably not your best option, as despite being able to apply several layers successfully, instead of creating a bold ‘va-va-voom’ effect for a night on the town, too many layers will eventually leave your lashes feeling heavy, crunchy and flaky.  :-O   But if you are in need of a decent and ‘oh so affordable’ daily mascara, to add a desirable fullness and length for flutter worthy lashes that make your eyes pop, then the Covergirl Clump Crusher by Lash Blast Mascara is exactly what you need.  It beautifully fans out my lashes for a soft, subtle everyday look and I wouldn’t hesitate to repurchase it, especially for the price (the RRP is $17.95) availability (can get it just about anywhere) and super effective results.   \:D/

Are you a Covergirl mascara kind of girl??   :-?  What type of mascara do you prefer - one that creates the ultimate drama effect or would you rather the soft and natural look?   :-/  Please comment if this sounds appealing to you, or if you have something better to recommend.  

The images in this post are generic.

Australis Curve Ink Eyeliner

Hi friends everywhere!  :-h   The next post is about a trendy new eyeliner from a popular Australian cosmetic company.  I was sent this product from Tammerly to trial and review for her lifestyle, fashion and beauty blog Spoilt.  Read on to find out about my experience.  \:D/

The innovative Australis Curve Ink Eyeliner is an ergonomically shaped liquid eyeliner for ease of use, precise application and most of all for maximum comfort.  Ideal for both left and right handed folk, its paraben and formaldehyde-free, claims to be water-resistant, fast-drying and smudge-proof.  :)

I received the Australis Curve Ink Eyeliner attached to a fold-out cardboard that includes product information, including features, benefits, availability and an instructional guide to achieve the trendy cat-eyed look.  The 9gm plastic packaging is black and bright pink, reflective of the Australis brand, which presents as modern and chic.  B-) The applicator has a curved handle that fits comfortably in my hand and boasts a grip zone to place my fingers on to ensure the ultimate in control.  =D>

The Australis Curve Ink Eyeliner has an ultra-fine, pointy, felt pen-style tip is firm and easy to apply.  The fluid-like formulation is not as runny as most liquid liners and therefore glides on smoothly and dries almost instantly without running or feathering and stays put for hours before it starts gradually fading into more of a grey shade.  The colour is a very intense black and I only needed the one coat to achieve a thin solid line, but it also layers well if I want to create a thicker, more defined line.  I am pretty sure black is the only shade that it comes in at this stage, but I would definitely be keen to see it available in a greater selection of colours further down the track.  ;)  The only downfall in these felt tipped liners is they do dry out faster than other liquid liners, but considering this product is available in Priceline, or via Australis Cosmetics online for just $14.95, it’s affordable to replace when needed. 

The packaging, including how-to guide.

I am a bit awkward when it comes to applying liquid eyeliner,   #-o   so normally opt for the pencil varieties; however I highly recommend the Australis Curve Ink Eyeliner to those who have difficulty using regular liquid liners, or particularly if you’re a beginner.  The applicator shape allows my hand to keep steady and the finely tapered, pointy tip makes drawing straight lines easier than ever.  #:-S   I like how fast the formula sets, which is so handy during the warmer months when all my makeup wants to slide off and head south just as quickly as I apply it.  :-O   However, in this case, once it’s in place it doesn’t budge, even in the humidity, thanks to the water-resistant factor that even prevents smudging.  <:-P  My eyeliner is still in place at the end of the day, despite fading somewhat, and yet it comes off effortlessly with my cleansing oil or makeup remover.  If you want to get the hang of recreating the ‘purr-fect’ fool-proof, feline eye look, then this is one liner you will want to try.  ;;)

Tip – Use a cotton tip dipped in cleansing oil to make corrections.

Rating – 3.5 out of 5 (Published for Spoilt. Click here to view)

Have you tried this eyeliner yet?  :-/   Do you like the felt-pen style eyeliners, or do you prefer a different type of liner?  :-?  If you're worried about using liquid liners this might be a good way to learn. Interested or.....please comment below with your opinion.

The images in this post are generic.

Eye of Horus - Natural Mascara

Howdy once again guys  :-h  I’m still with you and this time I am sharing my experience with a mascara that has quickly become a firm favourite of mine and to be honest, I’ve never used a mascara that even comes close to being as perfect as this one.  :-O   So, believe me when I tell you that you will want to read on and find out why!  ;;) This product was sent to me by Darren at The Facial Company, to try out and review.

Eye of Horus is a natural eye makeup brand that has non-irritating, Paraben and Cruelty Free eye makeup for those with even the most sensitive eyes.  It’s an Australia bases brand who is committed in Awakening the Goddess in EVERY women.  (*)  The Natural Mascara is formulated in the style of ancient Egyptians, featuring plant based ingredients, natural waxes and oils to enhance the natural beauty of your lashes. 

The mascara is presented in a classy black box with gold print and the ancient Egyptian Eye of Horus symbol, based on the famous sky god, which is adorned throughout the entire product range.  The inner tube is sturdy and screams high quality, boasting the same exotic-looking colour scheme as the outer packaging.  Attached to the screw-off lid is the wand, a large, flexible brush with firm, plastic bristles that separate and define my lashes to perfection.  \:D/  The formula is thick and completely covers every single lash from root to tip with just one coat.  It’s well pigmented and produces the blackest black colour, while providing a natural clump-free finish that looks soft and natural and lasts, without fail, all day long.  Despite it not being ‘waterproof’ as such, I’ve never noticed any flaking, running or fading, so no need to fear the dreaded panda-eyes, because it seriously doesn’t budge, no matter what, stays on all day until it’s physically removed.  #:-S   I admit it can be a bit stubborn to get off,  :-S   but I’ve found that because it’s an oil based formula, a cleansing oil is the best way to get it off.  I prefer using my jojoba oil (takes off eye makeup like a rubber erases pencil) but any cleansing oil would do the trick.  :D

I use this particular mascara every day and after having tried it, I can’t imagine using anything else. It makes my lashes appear instantly longer, curlier and more voluptuous.  <:-P   If I want to plump my eyelashes up to another level, it’s easy to amp it up for a more dramatic night time effect, simply by adding additional layers, but you need to make sure each layer is dried before attempting the next.  I love how this mascara doesn’t only look fantastic; it’s actually fantastic for my lashes too.  :x   It helps with lash growth, whilst conditioning and strengthening the lash structure, meaning it’s basically a treatment mascara that cares for your lashes.  How good is that!  =D>  I have tried so many mascara’s over the years but this one is without a doubt, my holy grail.  Yep, you heard it here first, the Natural Mascara from Eye of Horus is the BEST of the BEST, and so you can forget the rest!  ;)  Seriously though, if you want a decent mascara that lives up to its claims of achieving flutter worthy lashes and would rather avoid all those nasty chemical versions, then this is absolutely the mascara for you!  I would recommend it to anyone and everyone. (Even shout about it from the rooftops if I could, hehe  ;))  )   You really must try it out! 

Company Tip -  *-:)  Prime your mascara!

The waxed based product can sometimes settle at the base of the container. If it appears dry move wand in and out slowly 3 times while still inside container, so no air gets to wand, and then bring up inside of container slowly, while twirling it around the barrel of the container. This will “prime” it.

What do you think peeps?  :-?  Does this sound like something you would be interested in?  I can’t rate it highly enough, this mascara rocks a zillion times over.  Have you heard of this brand or tried any of their products yet?  :-/  Please share your thoughts.  :)

The logo and packaging images are generic, the rest of the images are my own.

Lime Crime - Uniliner

Hi peeps  :-h  Things have been a little quiet on the review front since Xmas, but things are starting to pick up and by next month I’ll be overloaded with products to test drive and share with you all.  This review is actually one that I thought I had done ages ago, but when you look – no goes!!!  D’Oh!  #-o  So, at finally at long last, here are my thoughts on a liquid eyeliner that was sent to me by Jill at Makeupnet to try and then share my experience.

The Uniliner, comes to us from Lime Crime, a Cruelty Free and mostly Vegan makeup brand, known for it’s adorable packaging and the vivid and unique, stand-out colour variety that features throughout the collection of products.  =D>  The Uniliner is a liquid eyeliner that comes in an array of different and exciting hues, ranging from orange to yellow to silver to blue.  I received a blue shade called Lazuli, inspired by the gemstone Lapis Lazuli, which is an electric blue with purple undertones. :)

The packaging is typical Lime Crime style that is totally whimsical and instantly appealing.  <:-P   The purple cardboard box has printed detailing and is adorned with vines and spider webs, in white and lime green hues.  Inside the box is a compact tube that I initially thought was very small, but in comparison to many other brands on the market it’s probably about average and retails among the same category as numerous other high end brands – not the most expensive out there but not ultra cheap either, but in my opinion it gives plenty of bang for your buck!  #:-S  Attached to the screw-off lid is a small to medium length flexible brush with soft, fine bristles that is comfortable to hold and allows for complete control.  The colour looks kind of sparkly in the tube, but the formula actually has a matte finish and any sparkles don’t show up once applied.  The consistency is slightly runny and there is no noticeable fragrance, but it’s got brilliant colour payoff, so one swipe provides an opaque finish, however it layers well for maximum intensity.  \:D/

The Uniliner glides on with ease and dries fast, without smudging, streaking or flaking.  My lids are oily and I was surprised to find that it stays put all day with only very minimal fading.  But, for even better performance, I tried it using a primer, in this case the Lime Crime Candy Eyed Eyeshadow Helper (that appears to be no long available, however they do have a new version called Eyeshadow Helper, claiming ‘Up to 24 hours of crease-free wear, works even on the oiliest of eyelids!’ sounds pretty darn good too  ;) ), which really does boost the vibrancy and staying power.  It works well without an eyelid primer, but using the primer makes it even better.  :D  I was impressed with how long it lasted, considering the eyeliner is not waterproof, yet, it does come off easily with my regular eye makeup remover and a bit of warm water at the end of the day.

Swatch

Overall, I love using this product and the vivid effect that one bold line above my upper lashes can effortlessly deliver.  :x   The Uniliner is ultimate addition to any beauty kit and I would recommend it to those who desire a perfect pop of colour that will undoubtedly attract some serious attention, create a statement and enhance any makeup look.  (*)

Tip –   *-:)  It’s wise to apply each coat lightly, because using to much product increases the drying time.

What do you think, are these the sort of colours you are daring enough to wear?  :-/  What type of eyeliner do you prefer and how are your liquid eyeliner skills?  :-?  Any more tips of suggestions when it comes to coloured liquid liners?



All images in this post are my own.

Australis Megalash Mascara - Electric Blue

Hello beauties!  :-h   This post is based on my trial for Tammerly the super talented author of Spoilt beauty blog, who kindly sent me this mascara to test drive and review.  The original is linked here. 

When I first tried the Australis Megalash Mascara I felt quite ripped off, because it didn’t generate very noticeable results in providing that essential bit of oomph or polished lashes, I demand from my mascara, especially since my lashes are quite fair, short and straight.  :-L   I was thrilled to receive this mascara in a vibrant Electric Blue shade, because as a person who likes to explore with coloured makeup, I’m fond of brightly hued mascaras, instead of the standard black, brown or more common neutral tones.  Fortunately, despite my initial disappointment, I persisted using the mascara daily for a week, determined not to give up, then during this time, I mastered how to achieve better end results, which I will explain to you now.  #:-S

Housed in black plastic packing with hot pink lettering featuring the brand and product name, the Australis Megalash Mascara tube is large in size, with a budget price tag that promotes plenty of ‘bang for your buck’ in terms of value.  $-)  The brush is a classic design, of average size, tapering at the tip to easily separate individual lashes and reach the inner corners, coating even the finest of hairs.  The creamy, lightweight formula has a thin, runny consistency that applies with minimal fuss and no clumping.  :D  Because it’s quite fluid-like, it takes some time to totally dry, so it’s wise to keep still, without blinking too much, so to avoid smearing or transferring any product onto my skin.  *-:)  I was shattered after the initial application, because, it didn’t boost my lashes and they weren’t fuller or longer at all……until I started applying extra coats.  #-o  Due to the smooth, wet formulation, it’s buildable and therefore layers easily to present the sought after volume, for visibly plumper, longer lashes, for natural-looking appeal that’s not overboard.  ;;)  The highly pigmented colour is incredibly rich and bold, yet it’s not blatantly obvious, unless the lashes come into contact with light.  In spite of numerous layers, my lashes remain flexible and soft to touch, unlike the stiff effect some mascaras create, leaving them so hard I worry they might snap off.  The staying power is exceptional and it won’t budge all day, thanks to the waterproof, tearproof design.  My eyelashes are still fresh at the end of the day, there’s no fading, flaking, smudging or running that can lead to panda eyes, yet the mascara still washes off thoroughly with a normal cleanser, hence no need to invest in a separate waterproof eye makeup remover.  =D>

This mascara conveniently slots into my daytime makeup regime, delivering a soft, natural focus, with a striking splash of funky colour to instantly brighten my eyes.  It’s not my first choice for drama at night, as it doesn’t pack enough of a punch for my taste, although it’s ideal to layer over a lash enhancing mascara or even to use in conjunction with a decent eyelash primer for a more pronounced look.  ;)  Don’t be intimidated by how loud this blue shade appears, because it’s definitely wearable and I keep receiving complements that the flattering hue really makes my eyes ‘pop’.  To ensure your lashes get the attention they deserve, you do need to religiously apply at least two coats of mascara, remembering to ensure each coat is adequately dry before attempting any additional layers.  Whilst time consuming, this step secures the desired colour, fullness and length we expect from a mascara.  For luscious lashes that are beautifully subtle and suitable for everyday, without being too over the top, I suggest you revamp your makeup kit with an Electric Blue Australis Megalash Mascara, to inject a modern approach to your lash look.  :x

My FOTD - See bullet list for other products used.

Whilst my experience has been mostly positive, I’m awarding this little darling with 4 stars instead of 5
 (*)  (*)  (*)  (*)  because I would personally prefer if my lashes were amplified to a greater extent, making them even more exaggerated, however this mascara will be sure to impart a modest, low-key transformation.  :D

FOTD - Products Used

• Foundation - Ultraceuticals Ultra Active Even Skintone Compact - Honey
• Concealer -  NVEY ECO Erase Corrector - Medium
• Blush - Clinique Almost Bronzer - Light/Medium
• Lipliner - Australis Lip Pencil - Tickled Pink
• Lipstick - MAC Amplified Creme - Saint Germain
• Brows -  Prestige My Ultimate Brow Definer Pencil - Blondy
• Eyeliner -  Styli-Style Line & Seal 24 Eyes - Brown
• Mascara - ***Australis Megalash Mascara - Electric Blue***

Do you like coloured mascaras?  :-?  Have you tried any of the Australis range and do you agree the products perform exceptionally well for such an ultra cheap, affordable brand?  What is your favourite, most effective over the counter/pharmacy/supermarket type mascara?  :-/  You know the drill, comment below  :)

The first image of the product is generic, whist the other three snap shots are 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.