It's a rare occasion these days that I get to spend a good hour just taking my time, meandering around Boots, eyeing up the latest releases - but last week that is exactly what I did. There were a few bits I had seen floating around the 'blogosphere' that I wanted to get my hands on to test out, and so, after what was a great deal of searching in some cases, I managed to pick them up, give them a go, and now I thought I'd do a quick run through of the bits I've been loving the most.
Garnier Micellar Oil-infused Cleansing Water
I've used the original Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water before and it was great - a good dupe for cult favorite Bioderma and handy when, after a night out I just wanted something quick and easy to take off my face of make up. This stuff takes things to a whole other level though. Think Clarins Instant Eye Make Up Remover but more product for a third of the price - it has been tackling my Dior Iconic Overcurl Waterproof Mascara like nobody's business and so if you have problems removing something similar this is the one for you.
Botanics Organic Hot Cloth Cleansing Balm
This was recommended to me by so many people during last week's beauty blogger chat on Twitter, that I just had to get my hands on it to see what all the fuss was about. It's currently out of stock online and it took me what was eventually seven visits to different stores to track it down but I'm glad I made the effort. With a glorious mix of rosehip, shea butter and jojoba oil it feels luxurious to apply and has quite a soft formula that is easy to work with and melts into your skin quickly and easily without needing to warm it up too much in your hands pre-application. It leaves skin feeling soft and supple, and though it isn't the best balm I've used when it comes to taking off eye make up - when used post Garnier micellar water, it makes for a nice first cleanse and in my opinion would make a decent dupe for the fabled Emma Hardie Amazing Face Moringa Cleansing Balm just with a slightly denser texture to it.
L'oreal Colour Riche A L'Huile Nail Polish
These gorgeous polishes are formulated with a blend of oil that promises to provide intense vibrance and shine. And, in not wanting to beat around the bush, this is exactly what they do. I picked up the shades 224 Rose Ballet and 550 Rouge Sauvage - a muted pink with a browny tint to it and of course, a classic pillar box red. The bottles are chic, the brushes nice and wide, and, combined with the thick formula they apply beautifully - one of those one coat wanders! I can't wait to get my hands on some more now - in particular, 670 Cobalt Indecent and 334 Violet De Nuit are calling out my name.
Revlon Ultra HD Matte Lip Colour
Again, it took me so long to be able to track these down but after seeing how hyped up they had been I knew I needed to check them out. Gorgeous, pigmented formulas that are long lasting and aren't too drying on the lips thanks to their matte but not super matte finish and slightly thinner consistency than a lot of the liquid lipsticks I've tried. There's a nice selection of colours, though personally I prefer the more neutral shades (they seemed easier to apply/were less streaky when I swatched them). My two favourites are Flirtation - a muted peachy-coral and Seduction - your standard browny nude.
Max Factor Voluptuous False Lash Effect Mascara
When I first tried this I really wasn't so sure. The formula is a lot drier than what I normally go for and the giant brush can be a little tricky to maneuver. However, just by chance I happened to be playing around with mascara combinations one day, and this, layered over any of my go to options - Lancome Hypnose, Dior Overcurl, Charlotte Tilbury Full Fat - just creates the biggest, most billowing lashes you could wish for. So if it's mega volume you want, this might just help to do the trick for you!
What are your favorite new budget beauty releases of late?
Sarah x
