Bubbly Michelle

NARS Velvet Lip Glide | Photos & Swatches

July 14, 2016August 20, 2016by Bubbly Michelle18 Comments

It’s always a spectacular affair these NARS previews. There’s always something to get everyone buzzing with excitement. And this fall, the biggest deal were the new Velvet Lip Glides that will be launching this October (applicable to Singapore).

As always I come armed with loads of preview pics as well as a set of swatches just for you. Do read on!

According to the NARS press release,

These new lipsticks strike a perfect balance between softness & strength, coverage and comfort in a full range of colours. Laced with NARS’ Oil Infusion Complex, this hybrid lip colour combines the fluidity & effortlessness of a gloss with the coverage and comfort of a lipstick. Oil Infusion Complex also allows for a smooth-glide effect, instantly delivering saturated colour with sensorial comfort.

Formula & Texture

I found these to be lightly scented, highly pigmented, with the texture of a nourishing lip gloss/cream hybrid. Even the paler shades provided pretty much opaque coverage without having to layer on. Something I did not anticipate.

Additionally these Velvet Lip Glides feel lightweight on the lips and never overly slippery or sticky as a traditional gloss, these feel more like lipsticks with a velvety cushion-y feel.

Here’s a line up of the shade range.

On to some swatches from the preview. All done in a single swipe.

*Note, although the swatches look rather wet and glossy, the finish on the lips is more of a creamy, soft look.

Bottom Line

The formula is divine. Think Audacious lipstick in a liquid cream format. Intensely pigmented, lightweight and comfortable. If you are tired of the matte liquid lipstick trend, it’s time to hop onto the Velvet Lip Glide bandwagon. You won’t regret it.

Pricing and Availability

Available at all NARS counters (Tangs, Robinsons at Heeran). Retail price SGD45 for 5.7ml

Makeup

Givenchy Poudre Bonne Mine (Healthy Glow Powder) | Review & Swatches

July 8, 2016July 17, 2016by Bubbly Michelle3 Comments

Few months ago Givenchy relaunched their Poudre Bonne Mine Powders. Meant to naturally energise the skin with light, these are a staple to look healthy and glowing all year round.

There are 4 colours which are now available in Asia.

00- Moonlight Saison

01- Première Saison

02- Douce Saison

03- Ambre Saison

As with all things Givenchy Beauty, it’s the packaging that captures the heart first! I’d be lying if I said I didn’t want to hoard this beautiful compact in it’s pristine condition forever and ever and EVER.

The exterior of the packaging is absolute perfection. It’s a slim black compact with the Givenchy logo up top in rose gold. Unfortunately the black casing is a magnet to finger prints and dust and it’s been quite the task keeping them looking shiny and pretty.

I also like that the compact is in fact compact! Unlike most seasonal bronzers which arrive in mega sized pans making them totally travel unfriendly.

The only negative I see is, these don’t come with a protective velvet case as you’d expect of high end beauty brands. Which makes the compact susceptible to scratches.

The Bonne Mine Formula

According to the press info at hand. The Bonne Mine powders are a talc free formula. These are a baked gel with no excess powder that showcase colour perfectly. The technology used gives this powder a weightless quality that makes it virtually undetectable when applied on the skin. I can assure you, no powdery look or feel!

I also like that the formula doesn’t kick up product, which means less wastage! PLUS this keeps the compact looking clean and less grubby. Yayyyy!

Swatches

Swatching these I noticed they have good colour payoff, a silky texture and a satiny sheen. Unlike most bronzers on the market today which are matte, these Healthy Glow powders literally glow with radiance.

There’s a good colour selection for pretty much most skin types.

00 Moonlight Saison a pale shimmering cream for radiance & highlighting.

01 Premier Saison a golden wheat beige – for fair complexions

02 Douce Saison with more reddened bronzy tones for medium complexions (appears darker than Ambre Saison)

03 Ambre Saison with golden tones for medium complexions

*04 Extrême Saison – for medium -deep complexions (US & Europe exclusive)

Upon application I found the colour soft, buildable and blends easily, making it near impossible to overdo. Also glad that the final look is far from shimmery as brush application allows a more diffused look in comparison to the swatches which are obviously heavily applied in order to be photographed.

Wear & Longevity

I’ve discovered these powders do not contain any oil control properties and works best on skin that’s already been set with a powder (at least on the portions that are prone to excessive oiliness).

Applied over my usual base makeup, it lasted well throughout the day (I didn’t test out exact wear time), and looked fresh and glowy throughout without fading mid wear.

Bottom Line

If you are after a powder that brings radiance and a naturally sun kissed effect, these are for you! No weird orange-y tones or excessive red pigments. They would work effortlessly on fair and medium complexions alike.

I find the overall effect of these Healthy Glow Powders similar in concept to the Hourglass bronzers except less shimmery, smoother & as you’d expect, more refined in quality. A closer dupe would be the LE Chanel Les Beige powders that come out each summer (of which I am also a fan) though these look clearly more matte in comparison and usually tend to be geared towards the fairer complexions (limited colour variations, usually two).

Bottom line, it’s a gorgeous formula and I highly urge you to check them out. I hope you love them as much as I!

Other Info

SGD80 for 10g of product.

Currently at Givenchy counters at Sephora Singapore & Metro Paragon.

*Samples kindly provided by Givenchy Singapore for review.

Skincare

Estée Lauder Nutritious Vitality 8™ Collection Review

July 1, 2016July 1, 2016by Bubbly Michelle2 Comments

Infused with Estée Lauders propriety Pomegranate 8 Complex, Nutritious Vitality8™ is a range meant to bring back the glow!

I was introduced to this effective skincare line last year (around this time actually) and have been happily indulging in some pomegranate goodness ever since. It’s a collection I turn to whenever I need to combat dull skin and deliver than radiant, healthy glow.

I find myself reaching for the Radiant Crème almost every day (now my go-to current favourite night cream) and the Radiant Overnight Detox Mask a quick SOS treatment after a particularly strenuous week.

Nutritious Vitality 8™ was created exclusively for Asian skin. Powered by a potent anti-oxidant blend of pomegranate extract, mangosteen, super berry ferment, Vitamin C & E, Nutritious Vitality 8™ helps reset skin to it’s natural, dynamic equilibrium to give you that radiant skin we all strive to achieve. Skin looks more energised, refined, hydrated, nourished and of course younger.

There’re 7 products i’ll be discussing with you today. Some which I tested out last year and three new additions that just launched this June. I’ll also be rounding up my favourites from the collection to make things easier if you feel a bit overwhelmed!

NEW ADDITIONS TO NUTRITIOUS VITALITY 8

Radiant Energy Lotion which comes in two formulations. Fresh Moist, a lighter formula for normal to combination skin and Intense Moist designed for dry skin. Both non-oily and fast absorbing.

If lotions are new to you, it’s a step done post cleanse to soften and lock in moisture before proceeding to the heavy duty treatments (serums etc). It’s one of my favourite steps in skincare as I try my best to ‘water’ my skin at any given opportunity.

Personally I prefer the ‘thicker’ formulas such as the Intense Moist (even though I have combination skin) as I believe skin can never be over hydrated.

In addition to deeply hydrating your skin, the Nutritious Vitality 8 Lotions comes supercharged with Pomegranate8 Complex. One more step towards radiant skin.

Radiant Energy Mist.

A lightweight mist to refresh and hydrate.

As with all products within the line, this too comes infused with Pomegranate8 Complex to top up hydration and look radiant all day.

What I like about it is that it’s a very light, even mist that doesn’t disturb makeup which makes this great for mid day spritzes. It also smells awesome (as all the products in this line btw), like a burst of fruity goodness with each spray.

I see this a great poolside staple, tiny enough to fit into a summer clutch and also infused with skincare properties that would benefit more than just a mineral water spray.

On to older releases from the Nutritious Vitality8™ line which i’ve tested out last year.

Radiant Dual Phase Emulsion.

Infused with Ginseng extract that compliments the proprietary Pomegranate8 Complex, this helps recharge skin with vital energy in addition to hydrating and promoting radiance.

The Innovative dual-phase formula strengthens the skins moisture barrier and leaves the skin dewy and full of vitality. It’s proposed as a step after lotion (as a light weight moisturiser for the day time).

Radiant Moisture Crème.

While testing out the line last year, I noticed the one product I reached for the most was this great moisturiser. The texture was just right. Non oily, fast absorbing and best of all smells great!

What I love is that it pairs well with any serums I apply and also keeps my moisture levels in check throughout the night.

For day time it works great under makeup and keeps the skin looking supple throughout wear. An overall amazing formula if you are looking for a good night or day time moisturiser which promotes radiance and refines skin texture. I’d recommend this for anyone with normal to combination skin.

Radiant Overnight Detox Concentrate

Is a highly concentrated dose of Pomegranate8 Complex to smooth, soften and brighten skin while you sleep.

Lightweight and fast absorbing, this completes your Nutritious Vitality 8™ regime for smoother, brighter skin.

Recommended to be used for 28 consecutive nights as a treatment. As and when needed.

Radiant Overnight Creme/Mask

To be used as a moisturiser for drier skin or an intensive treatment for other skin types.

Slightly thicker in texture to the Radiant Moisture Creme, this one holds in moisture better. As you can see, the texture looks sublime. I love massaging this into my face at night in smooth strokes.

*For very dry skin types I believe the hydration this provides may be slightly inadequate unless paired with a hydrating serum or lotion.

Bottom Line

If I had to pick my favourites from this collection, it’s the new Radiant Energy Intense Moisture Lotion, Radiant Energy Mist and the Radiant Moisture Crème.

The Radiant Moisture Crème is my go to night cream on most days paired with the new Radiant Energy Lotions that adds an extra burst of hydration. It’s a combo that works great with any night serum I may choose to use.

Overall these two work to keep dehydration at bay and prevent fine lines.

The Mist is included in my faves as a summer staple. Be it topping up hydration on hot days or as a toner step in your skincare routine I find this one of the most well priced mists on the market. Also a big PLUS, it’s quite small and handbag friendly unlike other bulky expensive mists that claim to be compact but clearly NOT.

Pricing and Availability

Radiant Energy Lotion – SGD 76 (200ml)

Radiant Energy Mist – SGD 40 (30ml)

Radiant Dual Phase Emulsion – SGD 92 (50ml)

Radiant Moisture Crème – SGD 92 (50ml)

Radiant Overnight Detox Concentrate – SGD 116 (30ml)

Radiant Energy Overnight Crème?Mask – SGD 106 (50ml)

*includes PR samples sent for review.

Makeup

Clé de Peau Beauté Luminizing Face Enhancers | Collection review, Photos & Swatches

June 25, 2016June 28, 2016by Bubbly Michelle9 Comments

Among all the makeup I use, Clé de Peau has secured a very special place in my heart. It’s down to super pretty packaging and an equally AWESOME formula. As you may have guessed, it’s a brand that’s drawn a cult following and rightly so. They do makeup like no other.

If you are new to the world of Clé de Peau Beauté there are a few things i’d recommend you start off your collection with, and right on top of that list is their ever so coveted Luminizing Face Enhancers.

According to Clé de Peau, ‘This exquisite highlighting powder uses innovative light-directing technology to define contours & illuminate your complexion. It enhances the natural beauty of skin with it’s dramatically lustrous makeup finish’.

Packaging

These beautiful powders come in a unique jewel like casing fashioned in dull gold with a faceted gem like quality.

Like an extension of the powder itself the packaging catches the light in the most mesmerising way. You kinda want to collect them all!

I also love that the brush that’s included is also of good quality. Very soft to the touch and perfect for applying these powders.

Unlike most products in the market, Clé de Peau powder products also come with an option to refill. In the event you do use up the powder, a refill can be bought without having to drop a fortune (again).

On the flip side, this also allows you to buy just the refill and enjoy the product sans pretty packaging (in the event you don’t want to splurge on the packaging which I believe costs around SGD 45 on it’s own, yikes!).

Formula & Texture

These highlighters are ultra finely milled and silky to the touch. It has this very refined texture that I find exclusively in high end Japanese products.

As seen above, each powder compact comes with three shades mixed into one. Created to deliver the most flattering glow.

Dipping into the pan you’ll find the product quite loosely packed and picks up easily. Thankfully with this formula i’d say it’s quite hard to go overboard as they diffuse and blend effortlessly no matter how heavy handed you are.

On application these deliver a soft glow. No pores or texture is emphasised. I’d go as far as saying these impart a soft focus effect for creating the illusion of better skin.

Also a quick mention, these highlighters come with a frosty overspray which thankfully only last one application. Here’s a before/after comparison of a brand new compact and one after the overspray was dusted off.

Moving on to my collection of highlighters, so far i’ve collected 4 of the 5 currently available.

Clockwise from top is, Delicate Pink, Sand Beige, Golden Apricot (latest from Spring/Summer 2016) & Pastel.

The very first to my collection was Pastel, (still my favourite) with Sand Beige following closely behind.

On to some swatches (click to enlarge).

As seen in swatches, the shimmer disperses evenly with no chunky bits & love how silky smooth they apply on the skin.

Sand Beige – A medium bronzed beige. Great for medium skin tones. I find the formula of this the best of the 4. Well pigmented and silky.

Golden Apricot – A peachy golden highlight. On lighter skin tones this would show up peachy and can be used as a blush topper instead of a highlight. I love this for days I skip blush and use it rather heavy handed for a glowy flushed effect.

Delicate Pink – A pale pink. The most shimmery of the bunch.

Pastel – An icy cool highlight. Perfect for porcelain complexions & anyone who fancies a cooler glow.

Final Verdict

If a subtle glowy highlight is what you are after, these fit the bill perfectly. Though at the price i’m inclined to say these aren’t must haves as much as I adore my collection ❤

Pricing & Availability

These compacts retail at SGD 140.

Counters at Tangs Orchard & Takashimaya.

*Post contains press sample (Golden Apricot) which was sent over by the lovely girls at Shiseido Singapore.

Makeup

Givenchy Rouge Interdit Vinyl Lipsticks |Review, Photos & Swatches

June 7, 2016July 14, 2016by Bubbly Michelle7 Comments

Wow feeling a bit rusty blogging about makeup today! I can’t believe the last makeup review was when I did summer previews (quite a while ago oops!). Anyways back with a bang with new lipstick reviews and first up it’s Givenchy’s newest lipstick launch, the Rouge Interdit Vinyl range.

Luckily I had the privilege of a brief glimpse at these a few months ago at the Givenchy Les Saisons preview, here and have been super excited for their launch. Glad to see them finally here!

The Rouge Interdit Vinyls are all about extreme shine & impactful shades created with rare, precious ingredients for comfortable wear.

Unlike the Le Rouge lipsticks that come in leather packaging, these new Rouge Interdit Vinyls sport sleek black acrylic packaging complete with a pretty ribbon.

I also find this type of ‘barrel’ packaging rather clever as the cap is decently sized and less prone to slipping off your hand. Clumsy girls like me appreciate features like this and I can’t tell you enough, how annoying it is to loose a cap in the car!

Formula & Longevity

This new formula is ultra glossy and nourishing on the lips. The secret ingredient behind this is black rose oil which is added for maximum comfort during wear.

The Black Rose oil is combined with a silicon resin to form that vinyl shine that these lipsticks provide. A very fresh take on bold colours since most pigmented formulas come in matte finishes these days. The silicon in this lipstick also brings in a soft focus element that blurs out fine lines and gives the illusion of a plumped up effect. Specially flattering on mature lips that loose fullness with age.

So far i’ve experienced wear time of around 3-4 hours with slight fading and approximately one touch-up for the day. Of course this depends on how much you’ve been snacking as the lipstick wears off quite easily while doing so. But overall I like that it fades evenly and wont leave you with a strange ring of colour around the outer parameter of your lips.

*If you have noticeable fine lines, the moist formula does migrate and bleed into them and a lip liner would be essential. However for a more youthful carefree approach I wear them as is, since the slight migration does not bother me!

On to some swatches,

I received 4 shades from Givenchy as PR samples.

Fuchsia Illicite – A bright fuchsia with strong blue tones.

Rouge Rebelle – A warm red.

Noir Révélateur – A unique transparent colour that changes according to one’s PH and wears different from person to person. You can expect a colour from mauve to plum.

Nude Ravageur – A light peachy beige (More suited for fairer skin tones).

Bottom Line

These are lipsticks for everyday wear. They won’t dry out your lips and impart bold colour without emphasising fine lines or texture. It’s a very forgiving formula that’s will be your everyday favourite once you find your perfect shade.

My picks are the bright pinks and corals. I feel these truly outshine the nudes as they tend to wear a lot more opaque and therefore more impactful. The nudes unfortunately don’t show up too well on me and the pigmentation seemed lacking.

Final verdict, if you are on the look out for a great everyday lipstick and/or suffer from dry lips, these are for you!

Rouge Rebelle Party!

If you reside in Singapore and want to try out these new lipsticks, do join me this Saturday (11th June) at Paragon lobby (2pm-4pm) or Hylam Street at Bugis Junction (6pm-8pm) for a fun filled launch party hosted by the lovely ladies of Givenchy Singapore!

I’m excited to mix and mingle with you as well as share my favourite bright lippie looks and tips to wearing bold colour, specially if you are new or shy to wear them!

There’ll be cupcakes, champagne and also photo booths to document your day! And of course you go home with a goodie bag courtesy of Givenchy too!

Do RSVP to rsvp@37comms.com and mention your name as well as any friends you’d like to bring along to the party! (limited slots available)

I’ll see you there! ❤

For additional info see this post.

Pricing & Availability

Rouge Interdit Vinyl lipsticks will be available in Singapore (Paragon & Sephora outlets) from the 6th of June.

There are 14 shades in all from which 12 will be available locally retailing at SGD 48.

Skincare

Skin Inc Pure Serum Mist Review

June 5, 2016June 5, 2016by Bubbly Michelle2 Comments

Just over a month ago I received this new, first of it’s kind serum-mist from Skin Inc. As you know i’m a long term fan of the brand and this new addition was more than welcome to my skincare routine.

I have very sensitive skin, which is why Skin Inc products work so well for me. Their products are free from irritants such as fragrance and have always been well received by my fussy skin.

This new mist contains just 8 ingredients, one of which is Onsen water from the 1200-year-old Izumo Yumara hot springs in Japan, known for it’s healing properties. I’m intrigued!

Packaging

The Pure Serum Mist comes in a weighty glass bottle sporting a minimalistic yet luxurious design.

To me the most striking feature is the nozzle. The best i’ve ever come across!

It feels so sturdy and well made. Something you come to appreciate when you rotate a lot of mists. But overall it’s the little things right? I truly appreciate well packaged products and this was a nice touch.

Prepare yourself for the finest, most even misting action ever!

The Skin Inc serum mist contains loads of skin loving ingredients to soothe and bring your skin to it’s natural equilibrium; and best of all, like I mentioned before, no unnecessary fillers. Just the few active ingredients in high doses.

Hyaluronic Acid to capture and retain moisture.
Onsen Water for it’s healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Glycerin to hold in moisture and regulate skins water balance.

Complete Ingredient List – Water (aqua), Butylene Glycol, Spring Water (aqua), Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Phenoxyethanol, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate.

This mix is specially crafted to penetrate deep into the skin, hydrate and reduce sensitivity (in blemish prone skin) and overall promote and maintain a healthy skin barrier.

I mostly use this as part of my skincare routine. Straight after cleanser to refresh, hydrate and prep skin for serums that follow which are usually Skin Inc Licorice serum + Ceremide.

Used as a setting spray, this gives your skin a dewy effect (specially great for combatting the over powdered look) and as a desk companion to top up hydration levels while at work where the A/C is usually on full blast!

Bottom Line

I don’t see this as something to carry around daily, it’s too weighty in my opinion.

Consider this as a luxury mist, more for skincare benefits than general misting to stay cool. It does great as a calming mist for whenever my skin gets itchy and also combats any tightness caused by dehydration. It’s definitely much more than ‘just another facial mist’.

A must try for skincare junkies and anyone who suffer from dryness, skin sensitivity and blemishes.

Product Info

Available at all Skin Inc outlets retailing at SGD98 for 100ml.

Made in Japan.

*Mine was a sample sent for review consideration.

Skincare

Origins Plantscription™ Anti-aging Power Eye Cream Review

May 13, 2016May 25, 2016by Bubbly Michelle10 Comments

Among the many joys of life, finding a good eye cream has to be right up there in the top 10. I’m a sucker for treating the peepers and believe it or not, locating that gem of a cream is no easy business. Apart from the delightfully efficient La Prairie eye serum that blew my socks off before (and I highly recommend), there’s been only a few that truly left me satisfied. None specially at a more pocket friendly price.

Over the last few months i’ve been on some new Origins goodies and waddaya know! I found something I like!

The newly reformulated Plantcription™ Anti-aging Power Eye Cream.

I decided to pack this for my trip to Japan. A great way to try new eye creams it seemed since it forces you to stick to the plan and continuously keep using it without excuses.

The packaging is absolute perfection. Housed in a smallish plastic pump bottle this one’s made for travel and not just for the daily!

Also great that the pump mechanism here allows you to control just how much you dispense, unlike some annoying pumps which i’m sure you’ve encountered as well! No wastage, and you dispense exactly what you need. Very important when it comes to eye creams since you only need such a tiny amount.

The texture of this is very light. Doesn’t feel oily and absorbs fast. I feel it has just right amount of richness for practically anyone (excluding those with severely dry under eyes).

I didn’t detect any particular scent to it, other than that of a typical unscented cream. So i’m gonna say, no added fragrance.

Also a perk of this perfectly balanced formula is that I don’t have to reserve this just for the night time, it’s all day, errday TWICE! Plus, how annoying is it when you find a cream that works for you but ends up too rich for day time under makeup?

Results!

Based on over just a month of use i’ve seen my undereye ‘un-age’ itself drastically. It’s now firmer, less puffy and my wrinkles much less noticeable. I’m really thrilled with the results.

Given that wrinkles are my primary concern when it comes to eyes, you can imagine my excitement to find something that delivers! And the best part, this cream is soooooo well priced ❤

Bottom Line

If you are in the market for a new eye cream and wrinkles are your main concern, get this. I highly recommend you do.

It’s fast acting, cost effective (i’ve only used up 1/3 for just over a month of use) and comes packaged hygienically in a pump bottle that’s easy to handle.

Pricing & Availability

Retails at SGD70 for 15ml, at all Origins counters and free standing store in Ion Orchard.

*Press sample received for review.

Ingredients List

Water, Glyceryl Stearate, Butylene Glycol, Myristyl Myristate, Squaline, Jojoba Esters, Cetyl alcohol, peg-100 Stearate, Anogeissus Leiocarpus bark extract, Chrysanthellum Nodosum extract, Rubus Idaeus (raspberry) leaf extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (rosemary) leaf extract, Coffee Arabica seed extract, Asparagopsis Armata extract, Vitis Vinifera (grape) fruit extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis root extract, Morus Nigra (mulberry) root extract, Centaurium Erythraea (centaury) extract, Bambusa Vulgaris (bamboo) extract, Pisum Sativum (pea) extract, Sigesbeckia Orientalis (st.paul’s wort) extract, Simmondsia Chinensis (jojoba) butter, Cholesterol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Trehalose, Micrococcus Lysate, Dimethicone, Cetyl Ricinoleate, Caffein, Glycerine, Hydrolyzed Algin, Hydrogenated vegetable oil, Laminaria Digitata extracr, Lecithine, Sorbitol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Crithmum Maritimum extract, peg-4 dilaurate, Acetyl Hexapeptid-8, Jojoba alcohol, Isopropyl jojobate, Caprylyl Glycol, Steareth-20, Cetearyl alcohol, Polysorbate 60, Glucosamine hcl, Ethylhexylglycerin, Potassium Hydroxide, Carbomer, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Hexylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol <iln41170>

Skincare

Estée Lauder Advanced Night Micro Cleansing Balm & Cleansing Foam Review

May 6, 2016by Bubbly Michelle6 Comments

I’m not one to play favourites, but cleansers are my guilty pleasure when it comes to skincare. Over time I’ve realised they play a huge part in the health and well being of ones skin; keeping pores clear of any dirt n debris, taking off all traces of makeup to ensure your expensive skincare is absorbed well, cleansers truly are the cornerstone of a good skincare regime.

Lately I’ve been testing a number of new cleansers and first up in the pipeline are these new additions by Estée Lauder. There’s a new Advanced Night Micro Cleansing Foam and Advanced Night Micro Cleansing Balm. Both which I’m equally excited to talk about!

According to the press release, what’s special about these cleansers is they are formulated to thoroughly cleanse ones face without compromising the skins natural protective barrier and prepare the skin to receive it’s night time ‘treats’.

Enhance the power of night

‘Used each night these ultra-sensorial Advanced Night Micro Cleansers work by micro-purifying, micro-revitalizing and micro-nourishing skin, dissolving all traces of the day while enriching skin with micro-nutrients and maintaining skin smoothness and strength.’

Advanced Night Micro Cleansing Balm

Meant for taking off even the heaviest, waterproof makeup. This is a silky cleansing balm that melts down to a slippery, thick oil consistency.

It’s to be applied directly onto dry skin, massaged in to dissolve all makeup, then emulsified with water till it transforms into a milky consistency and washed off with warm water.

Designed as a truly luxurious treat, this balm is fortified with lavender and chamomile for a calming, relaxing skincare session. The silkiness of the texture works together with effects of these essential oils to help you wind down and relax as you proceed with your regimen.

*Personally I like to take off my cleansing balm with a face towel damp with warm water for an even more indulgent cleansing session. The warmth of the towel adds to the whole pampering feel of the skincare ritual and doesn’t really feel like a hassle as some say. I also find this the ideal method for using a balm cleanser so you take off every last bit of it without any residue.

Advanced Night Micro Cleansing Foam

Is a lightweight, mildly foaming cleansing cream that comes packaged in a convenient, easy to use tube.

If you find foaming cleansers stripping or drying, the Advanced Night Micro Cleansing Foam is definitely worth looking into. The foam this generates is mild and maintains the luxurious creamy feel. It doesn’t dry out your skin and gently (though thoroughly) cleanses maintaining the natural moisture balance of the skin.

What I love about this cleanser is that it’s the perfect night-time cleanse after you remove your makeup. Fortified with a lavender chamomile aromatic blend as the cleansing balm, it makes the whole ritual of taking off residual impurities and purifying the skin that much more enjoyable.

Observations

After putting both cleansers to the test I can safely say they are suitable for all skin types. Both neither drying nor too rich. However I don’t recommend using the balm cleanser around the eye area and reserve a separate cleanser for point makeup removal. I find the eyes get cloudy with the thick oily that seeps in and can be quite uncomfortable even though it doesn’t sting the eyes.

Bottom line

If you are a cleanser junkie, I’d highly recommend the balm. The extra effort of cleansing with balms are always repaid with incredibly clean skin which no other cleansing formula can match. Even if you are new to balms I urge you to try this actually. You’ll be addicted to the intensely clean feel.

For mild cleansing needs (if you don’t wear ‘loads’ of makeup) the Cleansing Foam is great. I find the scent calming and just perfect for a quick cleanse on days I get too lazy to bother with a balm or oil. I even use this in the mornings!

Pricing & Availability

Advanced Night Micro Cleansing Balm – SGD56 (70ml)

Advanced Night Micro Cleansing Foam – SGD52 (100ml)

Available at all Estée Lauder counters from May 2016.

Mine were samples sent for review. Thank you Estée Lauder Singapore :-*

Makeup

NARS Summer 2016 Preview : Photos & Swatches

April 1, 2016April 1, 2016by Bubbly Michelle5 Comments

Quick post on NARS summer today! A drool-worthy collection I had the privilege of previewing while in Singapore just a few weeks back.

I couldn’t post any swatches due to the embargo which was until April 1st, so here you go, finally, feast your eyes on all these beauties that’ll be hitting our warm sunny shores soon.

This new collection comes in gorgeous LE packaging with chic illustrations by the artist Konstantin Kakanias. Colourful and ultra summery!

I also love that each product gets it’s very own illustration/packaging which means…. MUST COLLECT THEM ALL!!!!

Summer 2016 is looking Good! ❤

Collection consists of,

4 all new Lip Cover liquid lipsticks – Overheated, Get Dirty, *Members Only, Do Not Disturb

4 Dual-Intensity Eyeshadow – Deep End, Tan Lines, Pool Shark, Topless

2 Dual-Intensity Blush – Liberation & Sexual Content.

Onto some photos I took at the preview.

Dual-Intensity shadows! One of my favourite eyeshadow formulas of all time!

Onto swatches!

How gorgeous is Pool Shark? A pretty iridescent periwinkle blue!

Next up, blushes! Two gorgeous duos that enhance a summer tan.

Lastly, what i’m most excited about, Lip Covers!

*Unfortunately Members Only won’t be available in Singapore.

That’s it for todays little preview, I hope you enjoyed the overview of NARS summer. I’ll be following up with some individual reviews & pricing etc. so stay tuned!

*NARS Summer is set to launch in Singapore in MAYYYYY!!!!

Makeup

Tom Ford Bicoastal Sheer Cheek Duo : Review, Photos & Swatches

March 26, 2016March 29, 2016by Bubbly Michelle20 Comments

Hello and happy Friday! Kicking off phase 2 of the Tom Ford Summer 2016 reviews starting with one of my favourite new releases, the Bicoastal Sheer Cheek Duo.

Bicoastal sports typical Tom Ford summer packaging. Glossy white with accents of gold for a luxurious yet light summery feel. The palette is a very compact size (same as the mini bronzers) and fits in the palm of your hand. I find this a good size for travel that doesn’t take up too much space.

As always these powder compacts also come with a matching white sleeve to protect the glossy white from staining and scratches. A nice touch which I believe adds value to an already splurge-y indulgence.

As seen above, there’s one highlighter and a brighter blush shade.

On top we have a light shimmering peachy pink. Very soft to the touch with excellent payoff & smooth application. It’s a perfect summer highlight to contrast on golden skin, something that a gold toned highlighter lacks. However on deeper skin tones I assume this would look slightly too pale.

I also observed, the extra shimmer content emphasises pores and texture a bit. However I do love how this looked paired with shade 2 applied just at the high points of the cheek to add that glow.

On the bottom we find a brightened, medium rose pink. It’s a delightfully vibrant pop of colour that pairs well with sun-kissed skin. The texture of this was less shimmery (more satin) in comparison to the highlighter shade and was harder pressed, therefore needing more pressure to pick up colour for swatches. With a brush however I had no problem as such and the product picked up just fine.

On to swatches!

For comparisons sake I swatched Bicoastal along with the other cheek products that come out this summer (both cream versions with Pink Sand a repromote), as you can see, the supposedly sheer, Sheer Cheek Duo Bicoastal swatches pretty intense. However for a more natural, sheerer effect, wet application is suggested.

Personally I really love how they look wet. It practically becomes one with the skin and imparts a very natural flush. And paired with a fresh summer tan, the stained cheek does look utterly effortless.

Application

For wet application i’d suggest lightly misting your brush with water, wiping off any excess on a tissue and dipping the brush in. A few swirls to pick up product and then you can start stippling on the area you want the most amount of colour (apples of your cheek) working your way to blending the edges and sweeping colour for the desired blush placement.

So far i’ve had no problem doing this over a powdered face, however if you prefer, this step could be done before you set your base with powder. Overall with wet application i’d suggest keeping the powdering to a minimum concentrating on areas that are oilier and truly need reenforcement. It just looks better on glossier, fresh skin rather than a completely matte complexion.

More swatches! This time alongside some of my Tom Ford blushes from the permanent collection.

Bicoastal is unlike anything that’s found in the permanent line up. I’m missing Savage here, though that’s more of a caramel toned blush.

On to a closer look at how this applies. I used the blush shade wet (using my Tom Ford blush brush) and the highlighter shade dry.

I love that the pink highlighter adds a pretty glow to the tops of my cheekbones and contrasts well without disappearing on my skin as a typical golden highlight would.

Bottom line

I love the quality and the finish of the product and I feel it’s good value for money considering there’s two products in one, AND each pan is fairly large in size.

I also like the option of wet or dry application, which comes handy when adding variety to the looks you can create with this palette.

Lastly considering the colour mix, it’s pretty flattering on practically all skin tones and the well pigmented formula will most certainly show up even on deeper complexions.

It’s a winner on all fronts!

Availability

Bicoastal will be available at the Tangs Tom Ford Beauty counter from May for a limited time.

Retail price, SGD 119.

For more swatches and a preview of the collection, please refer my previous post here.

Lastly thank you for reading and wishing you all a blessed Easter weekend! xx, Michelle.