Current Makeup/Skin Care Menu #5

It's winter in Australia, so a traditionally very lazy time of year when it comes to makeup. That, or I've reached the stage where I'm favouring a more pared down routine, reaching for the same products each time without inclination to mix things up. Sort of like Steve Jobs and his same outfit every day. If it's working for me now and it saves me the time and effort having to decide what to use on a daily basis, then I'm happily sticking to the same old. At least until the weather starts warming up.

Pixi Glow Tonic
Can I flatter myself by saying I was an early adopter of this stuff? Of course, recommended by Caroline Hirons back in the day when it used to come in a rectangular bottle with a pump. Though it's been 5 years since I first started using it, I haven't been completely loyal ever since. But that's more because I'm not that disciplined when it comes to toning and exfoliation in general. However, I started using this regularly a few months ago and I'm converted again. It makes a BIG difference to my skin when incorporated into my daily regime. I cleanse with an oil, wipe this all over with a facial pad, follow with a hydrating toner (see below), then slather on moisturiser mixed with a couple drops of rosehip and avocado oil. The condition of my skin has been smooth, supple, hydrated, relatively blemish-free (still human, so not totally immune to the odd spot), without signs of flakiness or dryness typical of the season. I've since purchased 2 bottles as backup, so you know I'm not messing around.

Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycolic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract, Aesculus Hippocastanum (Horse Chestnut) Seed Extract, Hexylene Glycol, Fructose, Glucose, Sucrose, Urea, Dextrin, Alanine, Glutamic Acid, Aspartic Acid, Hexyl Nicotinate, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Biotin, Panthenol, PPG-26-Buteth-26, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance (Parfum), Caramel, Red 4 (CI 14700).

Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Chamomile and Lavender
I wanted a simple, inexpensive but effective hydrating toner to follow Pixi Glow Tonic, and this newish release popped up on my radar. I've always been curious about the Mario Badescu sprays since they're quite affordable ($10 for 118ml, $17 for double that amount) and seem to be decently reviewed. I know this is basically just water with a minuscule amount of other things thrown in that may or may not have any real benefit to my skin, but so far, I'm enjoying it. I haven't had any reaction to it and it's a nice mist of calm hydration following my morning and evening cleanse. The scent isn't as dreamy as I'd hoped with the promise of authentic lavender (I don't really detect any sweetness or earthiness to it, it's more of a harsh/cold herbal scent), but I don't have any major complaints.

Ingredients: Aqua (Water, Eau), Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Water, Propylene Glycol, Polysorbate 20, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Fucus Vesiculosus Extract, Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Thymus Vulgaris (Thyme) Leaf Extract, Silver Citrate, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Benzophenone-4, Triethanolamine, Zeolite, Sodium Sulfate, Citric Acid, Sodium Chloride, CI 60730 (Violet 2).

Laura Mercier Foundation Primer - Radiance
The news of Laura Mercier exiting the Australian market reminded me to actually start using the Laura Mercier products I have. I haven't bought a heap from the brand over the years, but the quality and performance of the products I have tried have consistently been excellent, so it's a real bummer they've decided to pull the plug. I think I read recently that Meghan Markle just used this primer on days when she wanted to boost and brighten her complexion, but not wear a full face of foundation, so naturally I started to mix a bit of this into my foundation every day. Not only does it add very natural but effective luminosity, but it's a bit of a thicker consistency and accordingly, bulks up my lightweight, more liquid foundation (Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum) so that it adheres to my skin better and has greater longevity. The only thing is that patches of gold shimmer in the primer can be apparent if you don't thoroughly blend the primer/foundation concoction into your skin, so a bit of extra care needs to be taken for a smooth, streak-free result.

LA Girl Cosmetics Glide Gel Eyeliner Pencil in Very Black
I needed a replacement for my beloved but long discontinued Savvy by DB Luxury Liner in Shimmering Slate, and this was inexpensive but well reviewed. I don't love it quite as much as the Savvy by DB, but it's definitely up there. It's nicely black, long lasting, smooth but not too melty, and as its name suggests, glides on and doesn't tug at the eyelids whatsoever. It's also much easier to remove at the end of the day than the Savvy by DB, which is a big plus.

Clinique Chubby Stick Shadow Tint for Eyes in Lots o' Latte
I feel like I've been sleeping on this for years, though it's been sitting in my makeup drawers all this time. It's literally the only eyeshadow I've been using every single day. There's something so liberating about slapping this on without thought and being done. It takes <1 minute and there's no primer involved, no brushes (which will later have to be washed), no careful, time-consuming blending (just use your fingers to fade out the edges a bit). The satin taupey/browny/mushroomy shade is deep enough to add definition, but not so much that you have panda eyes in the daytime. There's also not that much shimmer or glitter that a lot of eyeshadow crayons have, which seems more fitting with winter when a more subdued matte look might be preferable.

Clinique Chubby Stick Shadow Tint for Eyes in Lots o' Latte

Real Techniques Blush Brush
Every now and then, you learn something truly revolutionary through a YouTube makeup video or tutorial. That occurred to me recently when I saw Mariah Leonard's Glass Skin Foundation Routine. Basically, she advocates using a big fluffy brush like the Real Techniques Blush Brush, then using a very light, delicate touch with your highlighter powder, and applying the product in large circular motions around the cheekbones and browbone, then dusting your brush across your forehead, down the bridge of your nose, and chin. The main points are to ditch your usual highlighting brush which is much smaller and produces a more precise, concentrated placement, and instead, go big (both in the brush, and in the placement on your face), and go soft (use way less product than you think you need, and be conservative in your dips into the highlighting powder). The result is a much more natural look where you're just glowing all around but the product isn't so obviously sitting on your face.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Amrezy Highlighter
Speaking of this new technique, I've been using the Real Techniques Blush Brush with the massively hyped Amrezy highlighter by ABH. I bought this almost immediately when it launched on international online stockists (for reference, I used Cult Beauty). I learned my lesson from the last time ABH launched highlighter singles (still lamenting missing out on the So Hollywood Illuminator), so there was no way in hell I'd repeat the same mistake. At first, I wasn't sure if the hype was justified as while I liked it, there wasn't anything in particular that blew me away. Until I started adopting the big brush/light dip approach. Then ... I understood. This produces a beautiful highlighted effect that doesn't look crusty or scaly on my skin and isn't too dark for my skin tone. The texture is very finely milled but it's powerfully illuminating without being glittery or chunky. It's also highly pigmented, so a small amount goes a long way. The pan will last a lifetime.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Amrezy Highlighter

l-r: theBalm Mary-Lou Manizer, Fenty Hu$tla Baby, Becca Moonstone, ABH Amrezy, Charlotte Tilbury Highlight (in Beauty Glow)

For comparison purposes, theBalm, Becca and Charlotte Tilbury are the most similar to each other, with a paler, more pink/beige-toned white gold. The Fenty Beauty Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter in Hu$tla Baby is more similar to the Amrezy highlighter, but leans more peachy gold as opposed to yellow gold. However, both share a more pronounced, reflective shine.

Powder Brush Party

I have a thing for makeup brushes. They're my babies. While I have more than enough brushes, I always tell myself they're an investment to justify buying another one (or two, or three). After all, makeup products can expire, but good quality, well cared for brushes last forever. I can't see how one can be a makeup lover without being a makeup brush lover in turn. It's simply the basics, like the importance of skin care and good skin to any makeup, or a rudimentary understanding of how colours work on different skin tones. The tools one uses are equally as important as the actual products, if not more.

With the latest brush purchase of the Wayne Goss Brush 00 (yes, an absolute splurge ... I guess I'll call it my early Christmas present to myself, or part of it at least), I was inspired to round up all the powder brushes in my collection. No, one absolutely does not need 5 powder brushes, but if it counts for anything, they were accrued over the past four years. The funny part is I don't even use powder that often, and I'm not the hugest fan of face powders in general. I guess I just like big, fluffy brushes.

My powder brushes include:

• Too Faced Powder Pouf Brush (synthetic)
• Zoeva Powder Brush #106, from the Rose Golden Luxury Set (synthetic)
• Wayne Goss Brush 00 (goat hair)
• Real Techniques Powder Brush (synthetic)
• IT Cosmetics Live Beauty Fully Complexion Powder Brush #225 (synthetic)

l-r: Too Faced Powder Pouf Brush, Zoeva Powder Brush, Wayne Goss Brush 00, Real Techniques Powder Brush, IT Cosmetics Live Beauty Fully Complexion Powder Brush

l-r: Too Faced Powder Pouf Brush, Zoeva Powder Brush, Wayne Goss Brush 00, Real Techniques Powder Brush, IT Cosmetics Live Beauty Fully Complexion Powder Brush

Too Faced Powder Pouf Brush

Too Faced Powder Pouf Brush
Probably the most aesthetically pleasing of the bunch, the Too Faced Powder Pouf Brush was something I purchased 75% because of the way it looked. The remaining percentage was because it was pleasantly soft. I'm bummed that parts of the handle near the base of the ferrule have cracked, especially since I've barely used this brush. I tried to remedy the problem by applying some clear nail polish over the areas, which at least seems to have prevented further damage. The Powder Pouf is unique in that it's the only brush I have with white bristles but dark brown tips (be prepared to see a lot of dust and fluff nestled on the tips each time you use it). It's a fairly dense brush with a rounded top that's more kabuki style. The bristles are more tightly packed and the brush head is on the smaller side than what would be ideal for a light application of powder all over. It's more suitable for buffing mineral foundation or even liquid foundation (though I've never tried it with liquids).

Zoeva Powder Brush (#106)

Zoeva Powder Brush (#106)
This one is a bit larger than the Too Faced, with longer bristles that are considerably looser, meaning it could be used for a light dusting of powder (pressed or loose) all over. It's also the exact inverse in terms of colouring — dark bristles with white tips. It's roughly the same length as the Powder Pouf, which is to say on the short side (which I prefer, being short-sighted). I'd say the Zoeva is slightly scratchier than the Too Faced, but still feels generally lovely and soft. Since I bought it in a set, it's excellent value for money and the most economical purchase of the lot. By itself, it's about $20 from Beauty Bay or $15.50 USD ($21.63) direct from the Zoeva website. (Speaking of Zoeva, how utterly stunning is the Rose Golden Luxury Set Vol 2? Ugh.)

Wayne Goss Brush 00

Wayne Goss Brush 00
I'd put this brush firmly out of my price range back when it was called the Holiday Brush, but two things tipped me over. One, I had a $20 gift card from Beautylish that I had to spend. Two, I'd just bought the Wayne Goss Brush 14 and fell head over heels, so I was operating on a very positive first impression of the brush line. I thought to myself ... if Brush 00 is as amazing as Brush 14 but a large tapered powder version, it'd be worth the hefty price tag. I placed my order on Beautylish then waited in excitement for its arrival.

The first thing that struck me when it came, after I'd washed and dried it, was the shape was odd. I'm not sure if you can tell from the picture, but I swear it's not evenly cut? No matter how much I try to shape it, it simply doesn't seem symmetrical. One side is rounder, the other side is flatter, as if it's missing hairs or the hairs aren't the right length. It also doesn't come to a precise point in the middle, but is kind of wonky and slanted to one side.

Having said that, I'm not sure if that's just an inevitable characteristic of a natural hair brush that's handcrafted, or whether any of my dissatisfaction with the shape impacts performance. Probably not. It's by a large margin the softest powder brush I own. I don't see myself reaching for any of my others, simply because why would I use anything inferior? The softness means I can apply powder all over without disturbing too much of the foundation underneath. The tapered shape is great for getting around the curves of the face, like around the nose and underneath the eyes. Brush 00 could also be used for a diffused application of bronzer, highlighter or blush, though I've solely been using it for powder.

Real Techniques Powder Brush

Real Techniques Powder Brush
The first powder brush I purchased many years ago. I go through periods when I think to myself, "Why don't I use this more often?", then promptly forget about it again. This is by far the largest brush of the five. I don't reach for it much at all, but if I did, I'd imagine it'd be even larger and fluffier with repeated washes and use. I like the fact it's humongous, because that's it's defining characteristic. That's what it has going for it. It covers a wider area in a shorter period of time and the larger size ensures product isn't concentrated in one spot. In terms of the feel of the bristles, the closest match is the Zoeva. The Real Techniques version is denser, though not as dense as the Too Faced Powder Pouf.

IT Cosmetics Live Beauty Fully Complexion Powder Brush (#225)

IT Cosmetics Live Beauty Fully Complexion Powder Brush (#225)
Featured in my April 2015 Favourites, this brush is like the synthetic cousin of the Wayne Goss Brush 00, except not as tapered. In terms of the general shape, it is the most similar, though it's larger in size and doesn't come to as sharp a point as Brush 00. I can't deny I'm upset that for whatever reason, the shape isn't what it used to be when it first arrived. I'm not sure if it's in the way I've washed and dried it, or whether it just happens with time, but there's gaps and fissures in the hairs that prevent it from being one evenly smooth domed surface. (Clearly, I'm overly concerned about how my brushes look and derive satisfaction/pleasure from how much they resemble their pristine state.) Come to think of it, the wonky shape is another thing this brush shares with the Wayne Goss. Imperfect shape aside, this is probably the softest synthetic brush I've encountered. While incredibly dense (it takes like, 2 full days to dry), the brush doesn't feel hard and stiff against the skin, but still luxuriously plush, fitting snugly to the contours of the face. If I didn't have the Wayne Goss brush, the IT Cosmetics Live Beauty Fully Complexion Powder Brush would be my favourite.

l-r: Too Faced Powder Pouf Brush, Zoeva Powder Brush, Wayne Goss Brush 00, Real Techniques Powder Brush, IT Cosmetics Live Beauty Fully Complexion Powder Brush

l-r: Too Faced Powder Pouf Brush, Zoeva Powder Brush, Wayne Goss Brush 00, Real Techniques Powder Brush, IT Cosmetics Live Beauty Fully Complexion Powder Brush

So there we have it. Five powder brushes. One is more a dense, somewhat stiff kabuki style brush for buffing in mineral powders (Too Faced), the other is your standard medium-sized rounded powder brush with longer, looser bristles (Zoeva), one is a denser, much larger version (Real Techniques), one is a premium goat-haired, tapered brush that's supremely soft and ideal for an all-over, light application of powder without disturbing the underlying foundation (Wayne Goss), and the final is a larger, more rounded synthetic variation of the Wayne Goss (IT Cosmetics). Let's hope I stop there.

September Favourites

For half of September I was on holidays in the US, and for the second half I was adjusting to resuming work and my normal daily life (including blogging). It's funny how a holiday is commonly acknowledged as a short-lived fantasy, wholly divorced from one's tedious, mundane, and burdensome reality. Everyone we spoke to while abroad invariably described the end point of a holiday as going "back to reality". Indeed. In terms of favourite products for the month, like this time last year post-Japan, half are products I brought with me in my makeup bag to the States, half are new products I purchased over there.

Oribe Dry Texturising Spray
I hated the fact I loved this product so much after I liberally sprayed some in my hair while at Bloomingdale's (they have a Space.NK.apothecary inside). Seriously hated it, because this stuff is not cheap. I don't take the decision to buy a $42 USD hair product lightly (a sickening $66 AUD), but it was the last day of my holidays, I'd been sitting on the fence about whether to buy it for most of the trip, and I didn't want to regret not taking it home. Oribe is apparently stocked in Sydney, but a) I don't go into swanky hair salons b) I can't be bothered making a special trip to Paddington or wherever just to buy it.

I tried to convince myself with various texturising sprays that I don't need the Oribe (from the ineffectual Garnier Fructis Full & Luscious Volume Booster Spray, to the hairsprayish Charles Worthington Volume & Bounce Texturising Spray, to the close contender amika Un.Done Texture Spray), but really, as is the case with any product I covet but mentally close off the possibility of buying because it's too expensive, I should've just gone straight for what I really want. The Oribe is the best of the bunch. It's just that touch more refined, better smelling, less crunchy in my hair, and effective. It creates long lasting volume, doubles up as a mild dry shampoo, gives the hair added texture and slight grit so it's a bit more piecey and beachy, and smells like an expensive hair perfume. I think the amika is close enough and like, half the price, but I can't deny I like the Oribe just that touch more.

Bottom to top: Ivory Bisque, Peach Pop, Black Honey, At Dusk, Morning Java, Bronze Satin

Clinique Limited Edition All About Shadow Palette
I just talked about it in this post, so I won't ramble on for too long here. But basically, this palette has been such a standout among the products I purchased while in the US. Even more surprising, given it was included in a gift with purchase. I've been really impressed with the pigmentation and application of the shadows, especially the incredibly vibrant and metallic At Dusk.

Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara
I packed this mascara in my makeup bag to the US, and my appreciation for it only grew as time went on. Before my trip, my first impressions were that it wasn't all that voluminising, but since using it daily in the States, I don't really know what I was going on about. Maybe the mascara needed some time to dry out and for the formula to become more clumpy and less wet, but I now think it does a great job at separating, lengthening, darkening and thickening. What I like about Lash Sensational is that it's a solid all-rounder that's ultra reliable. If you want a mascara that will deliver noticeable results, quickly and without fuss, it ticks the boxes. While hurriedly slapping on makeup in front of whatever mirrored surface the hotel room had, I'd haphazardly whack some of this on my tragic Asian lashes and it really made a difference.

MAC Prep + Prime Fix+
I feel like I'm very late to the bandwagon with this one. Fix+ never particularly appealed to me, I think in large part because I never find myself drawn to MAC's packaging. But I'm becoming somewhat obsessed with facial mists and sprays, and Fix+ is such a staple that I had to try it. I bought the 30ml mini from the MAC store on Powell St in San Francisco for $10 USD, since the full 100ml size would've been more expensive than if I'd bought it from Australia ($35 vs $27), and I wanted to sample it first. I started to immediately use it while on holiday, and it was instant loovveee. This stuff is all my glowy, milky, hydrated skin fantasies in a bottle. Combined with a dewy foundation and radiance-boosting sunscreen, my skin was at next level luminosity, right on the brink of too much. The ingredients seem kind to the skin (even Paula's Choice Beautypedia gave it a positive review) and it doesn't leave my skin feeling dry or irritated in the slightest. I do have to say if I'm not careful with distributing the mist evenly, it can disturb the surface of my foundation, so after most of the product has dried, I'll take a look at my face and gently blend out with my finger any areas of unevenness. I'm converted and will likely buy a full bottle in the future.

Maybelline Fit Me Concealer in Sand
I've had this for a while, but it was only after I packed it in my holiday makeup bag that I realised just how damn amazing it is. On days when I didn't feel like wearing a base all over (the other option I brought was Bobbi Brown BB Cream), I would place the concealer under my eyes, around the sides and down the bridge of my nose, around the corners of my mouth, in a three-pronged V-shape on my forehead, and whatever residual product was left on the applicator on my cheeks. Then I'd blend it all out with my finger in a tapping motion. I'd achieve the same or fuller coverage than the Bobbi Brown BB Cream, but the product would actually stick to my face rather than slide right off. But more than that, the finish was SO luminous. Not in a shimmery or even sheeny way, but luminous in a natural, undetectable, glow-from-within way. I never realised just how radiance-boosting the Fit Me Concealer is until I used it as an alternative to foundation. Quality stuff.

Real Techniques Setting Brush
I felt it was important to include this brush in my favourites, because almost three and a half years ago (gulp), I reviewed it and didn't understand it at all. In that post, I didn't even mention the Setting Brush could be used to apply concealer (only for setting concealer under the eyes or spot powdering...)! I've been loving using the Setting Brush to apply concealer to areas of my face that need extra coverage — it's the ideal size, shape and density to blend product into the skin seamlessly. The bristles are super soft and don't irritate the delicate under eye area at all. I've also been reaching for it to apply powder highlighter, particularly Dior Diorskin Poudre Shimmer in Amber Diamond. I run the brush across the different coloured strips and apply the highlighter to the top of cheekbones and under the browbone. Because Amber Diamond is a bit harder and drier in texture compared with softer, creamier highlighters like theBalm Mary-Lou Manizer or Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector Pressed in Champagne Pop, it calls for a firmer, flatter brush to pick up product, which the Setting Brush is perfect for.

May Favourites

May, like any other month, was more of the same old. At least for yours truly. My dad, on the other hand, embarked on 3 week solo trip around Italy jam-packed with tourist activity, fortunately managing to make it back home in one piece. While he was gone, I spent some more one-on-one time with my mum, including a super indulgent high tea buffet at the Swissotel for her birthday. In terms of beauty, May has been all about returning to my first love: perfumes. Favourites-wise, it's been a successful month with lots of products I'm genuinely excited to have discovered or put to good use.

Serge Lutens Un bois vanille
To describe this merely as a vanilla perfume as I've done in the past doesn't do it justice. It's so much more than that, and it was only this month when that finally clicked in my mind. This is actually a busy, complex fragrance with A LOT of notes. According to Fragrantica, sandalwood, black liquorice, coconut milk, beeswax, bitter almond, musk, vanilla, benzoin, guaiac wood and tonka bean. I don't know if my nose detects all of that, but I do get whiffs or bursts of certain ingredients coming to the fore when I'm smelling it. There's almost a risk of too much going on, but it's too well-blended to be overwhelming or dissonant. There's an unpredictability and depth about it that keeps things interesting, but overall, this potent, full-bodied, somewhat spicy/smoky but lusciously sweet concoction is simply addictive. The lasting power is phenomenal and it's one of few perfumes I can easily smell on myself after I've applied it.

Cacharel Amor Amor
ZOMG. I discovered Amor Amor only this month and it's like I've been living under a rock all this time. Bit of trivia ... the nose behind Serge Lutens Un bois vanille, Christopher Sheldrake, named Amor Amor as one of his favourite perfumes. If that's not a ringing endorsement, I don't know what is. This stuff is strong and very, very sweet. At first when I sprayed it on my wrist, I dismissed it as some generic, slightly chemical, overly sugary, youth-oriented frag that I'd quickly forget. How wrong I was. This developed and blossomed on my skin in a way that commanded my attention and soon, my wrist was glued to my nose. Someone on Fragrantica described it as smelling like an orange creamsicle and I'd have to agree. Fruity, sweet, creamy, edible, romantic, comforting. Call me utterly hooked.

Essie Cocktail Bling
Star polish of the month. You know it's a hit when it's on both my toes and fingers. Cocktail Bling is up there with Nails Inc. Porchester Square and OPI Tickle My France-y if we're talking unassuming, easy to wear, effortlessly cool neutrals. Eva Chen describes it as one of very few shades she repeats and it's not hard to see why.

First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream + Garden of Wisdom Argan Oil
Obsessing over this combo for my skin, day and night. Nothing else works as effectively in combating the winter dry spells. I wasn't a huge fan of the FAB on its own, and I'd completely forgotten I even had the Garden of Wisdom argan oil, but together, they're magic. As odd as it sounds, I find my skin responds really well to no-frills moisturiser mixed with a straightforward, one ingredient face oil. I was using rosehip oil (or rosehip oil with avocado oil) for a while, but I'm convinced argan oil is it for me. Nicest texture (not overly greasy or thick), largely scentless, great absorption, and noticeable, fast results. It's my favourite oil and I'll probably repurchase the Josie Maran travel size when I run out of the Garden of Wisdom.

Max Factor Creme Puff Blush in Lovely Pink + Real Techniques Blush Brush
These Creme Puff Blushes from Max Factor do remind me a lot of Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blushes, though they're not as long lasting. Still, I've been enjoying the sweet, girly, warm pink flush Lovely Pink gives. It's pink without being too earthy/ruddy or cool-toned. Texture-wise, it's smooth and soft but not powdery. The pigmentation is easy to work with as it's not too strong, but still gives good colour payoff. It leaves a glow to the skin due to the shimmer content, but it's not pore-emphasising or OTT. I've swatched it in a previous haul post here.

I've been relying heavily on my Real Techniques Blush Brush this month to apply Lovely Pink (and basically all my blushes). The fluffiness and large size is ideal to diffuse pigment and ensure a well-blended, natural-looking flush. It's so soft on the skin and the tapered shape helps to sculpt my cheeks when placing the colour. I love that I can also dab the round tip into my blush to concentrate the colour on the apples of my cheeks. In a way, I've always overlooked the Blush Brush for applying my blush, favouring other brushes like the Ecotools by Alicia Silverstone Blush Brush, or more recently, the Zoeva Luxe Sheer Cheek, but I've truly rediscovered it in May and realise the error of my ways.

Wet n Wild MegaLast Lip Color in Bare It All
I've finally managed to buy this darn lipstick, despite wanting it for more than 2 years after seeing it on clothesencounters in one of her tutorials. I tried to live without it, even going as far as attempting to replicate the colour by combining BYS Longwear Lipstick in Beautifully Bare with Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Ginger Rose. Now it's here, I wish I hadn't resisted for so long. The colour is spot on for me as a not too pale, reddish brown nude. A true "my lips but better" shade. The lip swatch doesn't even do it justice as it's coming off a bit too brown. The pigmentation is incredible and it's not especially drying for a fully matte lipstick. I also love that it's extremely versatile. Wear it lightly patted onto the lips for a barely there, fresh-looking stain, or built up to full opacity for a bolder, more done up look.

Gilded Eight

It was on my wishlist in December. Come March, I cracked. Yep, we're talking about the Zoeva Rose Golden Luxury Set. I was doing well resisting it, telling myself I had more than enough brushes, but one random night (no doubt watching YouTube tutorials or reading beauty reviews), I came this close to purchasing the Louise Young Super Foundation Brush LY34 from Beauty Bay. Considering it was about $48, I thought to myself ... why not pay an extra $50 and have a whole set of brushes? The same set that I'd been coveting for months? The rest, as they say, is history ...

l-r: 317 Wing Liner, 231 Luxe Petit Crease, 227 Luxe Soft Definer, 142 Concealer Buffer, 110 Face Shape, 127 Luxe Sheer Cheek, 102 Silk Finish, 106 Powder

Top to bottom: 142 Concealer Buffer, 227 Luxe Soft Definer, 231 Luxe Petit Crease, 317 Wing Liner

l-r: 110 Face Shape, 127 Luxe Sheer Cheek, 102 Silk Finish, 106 Powder

The Rose Golden Luxury Set consists of 8 brushes housed in a dark brown faux leather makeup bag:

• 106 Powder (Taklon)
• 102 Silk Finish (Taklon)
• 127 Luxe Sheer Cheek (Goat)
• 110 Face Shape (Taklon)
• 142 Concealer Buffer (Taklon)
• 227 Luxe Soft Definer (natural-synthetic hair mix)
• 231 Luxe Petit Crease (natural-synthetic hair mix)
• 317 Wing Liner (Nylon)

It wasn't until I saw the brushes in person that I understood they weren't all synthetic as I originally thought. The ones with white hairs (labelled "Luxe") are either made entirely of natural hairs (i.e. Luxe Sheer Cheek) or a mix of natural and synthetic bristles (Luxe Soft Definer and Luxe Petit Crease). The rest are made of synthetic taklon bristles (same as Real Techniques), except the Wing Liner which is made of nylon. I don't think there's a significant difference in softness between the brushes with synthetic bristles and natural hairs, though I do prefer the look of the white-haired Luxe brushes. Natural hairs are usually better for powders, while synthetic brushes perform well for both powders and creams.

Overall, this brush set is great value, especially for makeup beginners looking to build a brush collection from scratch but not wanting to stretch the budget. I paid just under $94 for this set, which works out to be $11.75 per brush, not including the makeup bag which may or may not be added incentive to purchase.

The quality seems comparable to Sigma (at least compared with the two Sigma brushes I own, the F82 Round Top Kabuki and F84 Angled Top Kabuki), though the feel and performance of the bristles remind me a lot of Real Techniques. The closest thing Sigma offers in terms of a whole set is probably something like the 7-piece Mrs. Bunny Travel Kit, though that's more expensive, with all synthetic brushes and shorter handles. The Zoeva brushes feel sturdier, better made and more expensive than Real Techniques, with the smooth rounded black handles, engraved rose gold lettering and rose gold ferrules. For the price, I'm not sure if your money could buy you anything better. Sure, Real Techniques might still be cheaper, but they're not as aesthetically pleasing as the Zoeva brushes, you're not getting any brushes with natural hairs (whether or not that's a good thing, depending on your preferences), and you'd have to buy at least two separate sets to achieve the mix of face and eye brushes in the Rose Golden Luxury Set.

Having said that, if you already have a load of Real Techniques brushes like me, you may find a lot of the brushes in the Rose Golden Luxury Set superfluous. I've included some comparisons in this post so those that have yet to bite the bullet with the Zoeva set can see if it's worth the splurge.

l-r: Real Techniques Multi Task Brush, Real Techniques Blush Brush, Zoeva Luxe Sheer Cheek

l-r: Real Techniques Multi Task Brush, Real Techniques Blush Brush, Zoeva Luxe Sheer Cheek

There isn't anything like the Luxe Sheer Cheek from Real Techniques that I own, but the Multi Task Brush and the Blush Brush are similar in function. Real Techniques did recently release the Sculpting Brush which has a similar angled shape, though it looks like a diagonally shaved Expert Face Brush, rather than a brush designed to give a sheer finish for powder products. Despite its name, the Luxe Sheer Cheek can still pack a punch in terms of distributing pigment, especially for products with stronger colour payoff. SUQQU Cheek Brush this ain't. This brush was the one I was most excited about and its inclusion was the strongest incentive for me to purchase the set. It's been my favoured tool to apply blush since the set arrived, as you might be able to tell with how dirty it is. It's excellent at simultaneously sculpting the face while giving it some colour.

Top to bottom: Real Techniques Buffing Brush, Zoeva Silk Finish

l-r: Zoeva Silk Finish, Real Techniques Buffing Brush

l-r: Zoeva Silk Finish Brush, Real Techniques Buffing Brush

These two for me are pretty much indistinguishable. They are extremely similar in appearance, cut and function. The Zoeva is slightly more rounded in shape and firmer to the touch, but in terms of how they apply liquid foundation, there's not much difference. Considering the Buffing Brush was a favourite of mine for years, I'm glad I now have a very close alternative without having to buy a backup Core Collection.

Top to bottom: Real Techniques Powder Brush, Zoeva Powder

l-r: Zoeva Powder, Real Techniques Powder Brush

l-r: Zoeva Powder, Real Techniques Powder Brush

The Real Techniques Powder Brush is quite a bit bigger than the Zoeva version. The density of bristles is about the same. The Zoeva is maybe slightly floppier. I've traditionally neglected the Real Techniques Powder Brush since I don't powder that often and I've always found it to be intimidatingly large, but this past month I've rediscovered it and have found myself loving it. It's its very largeness that makes it enjoyable to use. The Zoeva version is better for more targeted application and closer to the Real Techniques Multi Task or Blush Brush, both of which can be used for all-over face powders, though I prefer to use them for liquid foundation and powder blush respectively.

Top to bottom: Real Techniques Contour Brush, Zoeva Face Shape

l-r: Zoeva Face Shape, Real Techniques Contour Brush

l-r: Real Techniques Contour Brush, Zoeva Face Shape

Zoeva Face Shape is one of the more unique and specific brushes in the set, though the Real Techniques Contour Brush is basically a larger, slightly tapered version of it. The Face Shape is essentially a smaller version of the Zoeva Silk Finish, with the same rounded kabuki shape. My favourite contouring brush is the Charlotte Tilbury Powder & Sculpt, though I use it only for powders. I don't often attempt to contour with cream products (likely because I don't have many cream contouring products to begin with), but I feel the Zoeva Face Shape would be ideal. Its smaller size and relative firmness allows for more precise placement and ensures that product is well blended but not buffed away to near nothingness.

Top to bottom: Real Techniques Deluxe Crease Brush, Zoeva Concealer Buffer

l-r: Zoeva Concealer Buffer, Real Techniques Deluxe Crease Brush

These two are another close match like the Real Techniques Buffing Brush and Zoeva Silk Finish. The Real Techniques Deluxe Crease Brush is slightly larger than the Zoeva Concealer Buffer. It's also softer and the bristles aren't as densely packed as the Concealer Buffer. Both function similarly in terms of applying and blending out concealer to brighten under the eyes, diminish the appearance of blemishes and neutralise areas of redness. I prefer the Real Techniques as it's not as firm as the Zoeva and performs better on the face, but the Zoeva is still a very close alternative.

l-r: Zoeva 227 Luxe Soft Definer, Sigma E25, MAC 217, Real Techniques Base Shadow Brush

l-r: Zoeva 227 Luxe Soft Definer, Sigma E25, MAC 217, Real Techniques Base Shadow Brush

l-r: Zoeva 227 Luxe Soft Definer, Sigma E25, MAC 217, Real Techniques Base Shadow Brush

The Zoeva 227 Luxe Soft Definer seems to be one of the brand's best known and celebrated brushes. Said to be a dupe of the MAC 217 Blending Brush (or at least a good, affordable alternative), it's made of a mix between natural and synthetic hairs. I believe the MAC 217 is made of goat hair, though surprisingly it was hard to find confirmation from an official source online.

I have several brushes that have a similar shape and functionality to the MAC 217, with a couple of them touted to be dupes. The Sigma E25 is another popular pick, also made out of goat hair. The closest thing Real Techniques offers is the Base Shadow Brush, which is entirely synthetic. I still rate the MAC 217 as the best and despite three similar brushes, there's no competition. The Sigma is probably the closest, but I still prefer the MAC as it's slightly larger, fluffier but still very soft, packs on more pigment and blends better. The Zoeva was at times a little scratchy on my eyelids, but nothing unbearable. Since it's partially comprised of natural hairs, I'm hoping it will get better with continued use and washes.

l-r: Zoeva Wing Liner, Zoeva Luxe Petit Crease, Zoeva Luxe Soft Definer, Zoeva Concealer Buffer

Along with the Face Shape, the Luxe Petit Crease is one of the more specialised brushes in the set. I honestly don't have a brush like it. The most similar would probably be e.l.f. Essential Blending Eye Brush, though the Zoeva is thinner and longer. It's designed to be used in the crease to softly define the socket and blend any shade transitions. As I have monolids and therefore no crease/socket, I can't use it for that sole purpose. Sure, I could always experiment with "cheating" a crease and literally drawing one on, but I've never found a way to do that without it being unflattering or bizarre-looking. Certainly not without resorting to false eyelashes to tie it all together. I subscribe to the Asian eyeshadow technique of putting the "crease" colour (usually a medium neutral) all over the lid and up higher in a rounded shape across the eye so that it's visible when the eyes are opened, then placing and blending the "lid" colour (a deeper shade) from the upper lash line upwards so that it just peeks through when the eyes are opened. Despite not having a crease, I can see the Luxe Petit Crease being useful for more precision work with eyeshadow, especially darkening the outer-V of the eye and blending away any harsh lines.

l-r: Real Techniques Brow Brush, Zoeva Wing Liner

Finally, we have the Wing Liner brush, which is most comparable to the Real Techniques Brow Brush. The Brow Brush is considerably longer and thicker, with the Zoeva being shorter, thinner and more fine. I tried the Wing Liner once and it was fine, but I rarely (i.e. never) use angled eyeliner brushes. I can't be bothered. Most days, I just freehand with a liquid eyeliner pen like my Dolly Wink Liquid Eyeliner and hope for the best. If there's a super special occasion that calls for more symmetry (we're talking weddings and up), I might use sticky tape as a guide and a proper liner brush. In any event, the Zoeva version gives a lot more precision and control than Real Techniques. Maybe because the Real Techniques, as its name suggests, isn't designed for eyeliner. They have a Pixel Point Eyeliner Brush supposedly for that purpose, which is shaped in a thin straight line and is about the last brush I'd reach for to draw my eyeliner.

l-r: 317 Wing Liner, 231 Luxe Petit Crease, 227 Luxe Soft Definer, 142 Concealer Buffer, 110 Face Shape, 127 Luxe Sheer Cheek, 102 Silk Finish, 106 Powder

So there we have it. My brush collection is now bursting at the seams with the addition of the Zoeva Rose Golden Luxury Set. Time to start burning my larger candles fast so I can empty them and transform them into more spacious makeup brush holders. Overall, I'd say my favourites and most used of the set are the Silk Finish, Luxe Sheer Cheek and Luxe Soft Definer. I like that there are a couple more specialised brushes included, like the Face Shape for contouring and the Luxe Petit Crease for more intricate eyeshadow work. I probably won't use the Wing Liner though it's a perfectly functional brush, and I prefer my Real Techniques Deluxe Crease Brush to the very similar Concealer Buffer. The Zoeva Powder Brush is fine, but there are at least three brushes made by Real Techniques (Multi Task, Blush and Powder) that are worthy substitutes. Still, this is a reasonably priced, thoughtfully assembled starter set with well made, high quality, beautiful-looking brushes. Rose gold continues to have its moment.

As a side note, I recently just hit 5000 followers on Bloglovin'. To everyone who reads, comments, "saves", and otherwise supports and engages with my blog, thank you for helping me reach this blogging milestone!