Live Boldly : A Revlon Colorstay Review

 How often do you get to dabble in the magic of makeup while improving the condition of your skin? Not too long ago I was gifted 3 foundations and 2 concealers from Revlon and putting them to the test has been an absolute joy. I've been using the products for the last couple of weeks and the shades are 008 True Beige, 009 Natural Tan and 010 Toast and, out of the 3, the best fit for my skin is shade 009 Natural Tan. 

Let me tell you about the foundation. Imagine meeting up with an old friend after some time apart and feeling like no time has passed at all. Having been the first foundation I ever bought, I already trusted the brand. It was familiar and still had all the qualities that I loved, but somehow became even better. The skincare elements was really appealing.

The variation I received is for normal /dry skin and contains Hyaluronic acid and spf20. When you reach your thirties your skin needs a little extra help with looking after itself which is why I was happy that wearing a full face of makeup would not throw a spanner in the works. Quite the opposite in fact! The Hyaluronic acid helps skin stretch and flex and reduces wrinkles and fine lines, while the spf20 protects my skin from sun damage. The application is super easy and it gives of a  naturally flawless finish. It does not rub off: not even when I sweat. This meant I didn't have to keep re-applying during the day. Anything that saves me time gets my vote.

Colorstay Skin Awaken 5 in 1 Concealer

A concealer can really make or break your whole look so it's essential that you have a concealer that covers imperfections well, but doesn't end up being ''cakey''. I was really impressed with the Revlon concealer. The two shades I received is 055 Latte and 076 Caramel and it is  effective enough to wear on its own. Not only does it brighten and hydrate, but it also blends really well and survives the whole day. These two shades together are also perfect for contouring which is why I have started to do it recently. I like that it has a sponge applicator as opposed to the wand. 

The Revlon Colorstay Awaken 5 in 1 concealer offers full coverage for an all day wide awake look. It now contains caffeine and vitamin C and the updated formula is a game changer. In fact, both of these products have suprised me pleasantly and I will no doubt be keeping them both in my makeup routine.  It is refreshing to not have to pretend you like a product just for the sake of optics.

Foundation retail price: R325

Concealer retail price: R179.95

Available at Clicks, Dis-Chem Pharmacies, Foschini Beauty, Edgars Beauty. Takealot and Superbalist

Have you used either of these Revlon products? What was your experience? I would love to her from you.

TILL LATER, LAUREN!

Review : Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

 I have been dying to post about this product from the moment I bought it but, I figured, in order for me to give an honest review, I needed to give it a little time to see whether it really makes a difference to my skin. I have to admit, the uncomplicated packaging really won me over but, I have been duped many a times by charming packaging. It's really important for me to spend my money on products that  make a difference in my life so I was definitely rooting for this water gel. 

According to Neutrogena, if you want hydrated skin and a healthy glow, this is the product for you. The lightweight formula contains Hyaluronic acid and also promises supple skin that lasts throughout the whole day. I have been using the water gel for about 5 weeks now, both morning and night and there are a few things that I like about the gel.

• The texture- It is super lightweight and not greasy which makes it easy to wear under your foundation. It also absorbs super quickly so you don't spend your precious time rubbing your face.
• The light blue pot with the white lid is , as I  have mentioned, quite a charming change for someone who normally prefers a pump bottle. I like that it looks pretty on my night stand.
• It has a comforting smell that is not overwhelming. This is important to me especially since we cannot escape any smells while wearing our masks.

• Even though the gel absorbs very quickly you immediately notice how it quenches your skin.  This probably stood out for me the most. While my skin is not particularly dry, the gel made a visible difference. I looked well rest and hydrated every time I used it.

I have to admit that I normally prefer a cream that has a thicker consistency, especially for night time, but this gel has really changed the way I look at gel formulas. So much so that I have recommended it to all my friends. There are a few other products in the Neutrogena Hydro Boost range and after my great experience with this gel, it goes without saying that I am eager to try some of them. You can find this product at most stores and it retails for just under R140.

Have you tried any of the Hydro Boost products? I would love to hear what you think about it.

TILL LATER, LAUREN! 

PS: Special shoutout to Xylon and Thando for helping me take these pictures.