Wednesday, 19 February 2020

Pat McGrath Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Foundation and Primer: Review and swatches

So I thought it would be fitting to do a review on the Pat McGrath Foundation and Primer on the eve of the launch of her complimenting concealer system which will be available from tomorrow on her site. Pat McGrath started her line with her amazing mothership eyeshadow palettes. These are drool-worthy, with excellent formulations in her mattes, satins, metallics and glitters. These are definitely investment pieces but with the further launch of smaller palettes and single shadows, her brand has become accessible to all budgets. The foundation and primer were launch around July last year.

A well-loved duo of the Pat McGrath primer and foundation
I was lucky in choosing a shade off reviews and the site itself and ended up with shade 10. It is described as ‘Light Medium w/ peach neutral undertones”. Without really knowing if the any shades would be a more perfect match, shade 10 is a good match for me. Much has been said about alcohol being high on the inkey list, I have had no adverse reaction to its inclusion and quite probably benefit from it, as I tend towards oiliness. That being said, skin prep is always the key, whether you have dry or oily skin. The texture of the foundation is light and serum-like. I like to give it a quick shake before dispensing one pump for a light cover, and a second, to go back on area’s that need extra care.
Fingers give a more natural sheer look, and with a brush I can build to a medium, more polished complexion. The foundation does have an immediate grip to the skin and dries down relatively quickly. I do not find it oxidizes. Depending on various factors, including how much I’ve used, powdered, oiliness of my skin on the day, if I have used retinol or acids the night before which tend to dehydrate my skin, will reflect the longevity of the foundation.
It gives your skin a healthy, glossy finish. I typically powder, to preserve the integrity of the foundation as I have mentioned the oily nature of my skin.
The primer is also nice for some added hydration. I’m not sure if it ensures longer wear, but it provides a fresh canvas for the foundation. I would have loved for it to come in the same glass bottle, but perhaps in black, rather than the plastic one it comes it.
The foundation for me is the star of the show. I cannot wait for the concealer, setting powder and brush trio!

Primer, Shade 10





Friday, 14 February 2020

Roen Beauty: will make you feel every bit an ‘It’ girl

Roen Beauty has been in my cart for months, but since shipping to South Africa was not (yet) an option, it was a desire unfulfilled. After many attempts I finally have two of their amazing products in my possession. I purchased the 75*  Warm palette and the Disco eye. Here is my review:


Uber luxe packaging
Let’s start with the Warm palette. An array of warm brown, taupes, butter gold and amber, these shades are set within a compact case that has a magnetized closure. It’s also happens to be a perfect size for on the go touch ups or travel. All shades have a pigmented base with  gleaming sparkles throughout. The effect on the eye, is a on-trend ‘lived in’ look that makes me feel both feminine and ‘cool girl’ all at once. Initially, dip your finger in to warm the product and get to the good stuff. I have applied mostly with my fingers and then used a brush to diffuse and blend. Nikki Dust is my all over shade. I add either J’adore for a more sunset tone or Facetime to add depth to Nikki Dust. The shade ,Obviously can be used in the inner corner or as a pop on the centre of the lid. Of course us, each shade can be used as single washes or mixed to create so many looks. These shadows, are perfect for white tee and jean days as well as all night parties. My main concern was, was it going to crease. While I don’t mind a bit of creasing, on my oily lids it can become unflattering. So let me tell u the skinny. No creasing when I have worn it without and with primer. It also lasts excellently all day. I was curious about the texture since much has been written about it. It feel creamy to the touch but it is unlike any other eyeshadow in my collection. It is especially unique and I’m in love!

75* Warm Palette Disco Eye, 

J’adore*Facetime*Nikki Dust*Obviously
Roen Disco Eye is a topper as well as a ethereal stand alone shade. Drier and grittier to the touch, this shadow has a combination of small and larger glitter flecks which impart a magnificent shine on the eyes. When applied, their are no discernible particles and the effect is beyond pretty. I do have a love for sparkle and this is truly one of the best I’ve tried.

Disco eye

I would have bought the 52* Cool palette, but wanted to experience the warm palette before investing in both palettes. I am now disappointed that I have to wait, again for it to arrive. Nikki (Roen’s creator) has teased at a new color palette early in 2020 as well as a new category (other than the Wow Brow pencils). Roen ticks all the boxes needed for a ‘now’ brand being vegan, cruelty free and clean. This brand is now fully on my radar.

Thursday, 6 February 2020

Hello Beautylovers,

Please head over to Instagram for some exciting reviews @Makeupremasteredbyjo

See you there.

xx