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Aallexxy's Foundation Files; Fashion Fair True Fix Foundation

Foundation Files; This is where I test out different base products, from concealer to powder, tinted moisturiser and foundation etc, over a period of 7-14 days and post my findings. (Follow me on Instagram,Twitter and Bloglovin so you don't miss a post) So let’s get started!!!

First off some information about me; Skintype: Combination (leaning dry in winter and Oily in Summer). Shade Reference:in between MAC NC45-50/NW43. Undertones: Yellow/Neutral.

Fashion Fair True Fix Foundation

Brand: Fashion Fair

Name: True Fix Foundation*

Coverage: Medium - Full

Shade: Divine Chocolate

Swatch:

Fashion Fair True Fix Foundation Swatch

What The brand says: These two complementary cream shades are smooth, easy to blend and provide maximum coverage. This foundation creates a semi matte finish to minimize imperfections, promote even skin tone, and conceal problem areas. The cream shades leave a semi matte finish. Available in 30 shades in 15 compacts.

Wear time (with/without primer): The wear time on this is great on my combination skin, while not beeing heavy or cakey and still looking like skin, although you can build this total coverage if needed.

Price (ml): £23 for 14.5g

Pros: 2 shades in one compact

good shade range
Travel friendly
Adapt it to your shade all year round

Cons: UK accessibility

Suitable Skin Types: All (extremely dry may need to prep skin accordingly)

Ingredients:

 

Oxidation: None

Any Other Information: This foundation is housed in a mirrored compact with a puff included, I tend to use a damp beauty blender to apply or a buffing brush, you can find Fashion Fair in select Boots stores, boots.com and debenhams.com.

Conclusion: This is a great cream foundation, that can be built from light to full coverage, or used as a concealer. Having 2 colours in one compact is genius, as most women of colour have at least 2 different tones on their faces, plus it's adaptable to the seasons. For the price of this foundation you get a lot out of it for your money.  

**Rating: Lust

*PR Sample

**Ratings: Hate, Dislike, Like, Lust, Love

Aallexxy's Foundation Files; L'oreal True Match Foundation

Foundation Files; This is where I test out different base products, from concealer to powder, tinted moisturiser and foundation etc, over a period of 7-14 days and post my findings. (Follow me on Instagram,Twitter and Bloglovin so you don't miss a post) So let’s get started!!!

First off some information about me; Skintype: Combination (leaning dry in winter and Oily in Summer). Shade Reference:in between MAC NC45-50/NW43. Undertones: Yellow/Neutral.

L'oreal True Match Foundation

Brand: L'oreal

Name: True Match

Coverage: Medium - Full

Shade: N8 Cappuccino

Swatch:

L'oreal True Match Foundation Swatch

What The brand says: Following research into the skin-tones of women from around the world, the L’Oréal Laboratories have developed a unique palette of 23 skin-true shades in warm, cool and neutral tones. The result for L'Oréal Paris True Match Foundation is a natural looking, skin-true colour without tide-marks and outstanding coverage without caking, that automatically adjusts to the texture of the skin to create a flawless finish, Oil-free and non-comedogenic. True Match Foundation has a micro-fine, creamy texture that contains 3 light, non-greasy oils. You can build up layers of L'Oréal Paris True Match Foundation coverage for a made-to-measure finish. L'Oréal Paris True Match Foundation gives outstanding coverage without caking. L'Oréal Paris True Match Foundation conceals imperfections, without caking : its micro-fine, creamy texture blends perfectly with the skin's texture.

Wear time (with/without primer): It lasts well on my skin with and without primer, I did get the obligatory shiny nose after a few hours, and a touch up was required to keep the foundation looking it's best, but was not essential.

Price (ml): £9.99 for 30ml

Pros: 18 Shades
Inexpensive
Different undertones are catered for
Buildable coverage
Blends with skintone

Cons: No ingredients list on the website or packaging

Suitable Skin Types: All

Ingredients: None on the website or packaging

Oxidation: None

Any Other Information: Its available in boots and online as well as other drugstores.

Conclusion: This is a really nice inexpensive foundation, that has a great shade range, the colour match was great and it was truly a creamy formaula, but not oily.

*Rating: Like

*Ratings; Hate, Dislike, Like, Lust, Love

Aallexxy's foundationfiles; Mac Prolongwear Nourishing Waterproof Foundation

Foundation Files; This is where I test out different base products, from concealer to powder, tinted moisturiser and foundation etc, over a period of 7-14 days and post my findings. (Follow me on Instagram,Twitter and Bloglovin so you don't miss a post) So let’s get started!!!

First off some information about me; Skintype: Combination (leaning dry in winter and Oily in Summer). Shade Reference:in between MAC NC45-50/NW43. Undertones: Yellow/Neutral.

Brand: Mac Cosmetics

Name: Prolongwear Nourishing Waterproof Foundation*

Coverage: Medium - Full

Shade: NW45

Swatch:

What The brand says: A tenacious waterproof formula that can be used as a foundation or concealer, wearing for an unprecedented 24 hours. Neither rain nor tears can budge this oil-free watertight product that actually repels moisture from the surface of the face. The formula blends seamlessly on the skin with medium to full weightless coverage and a natural satin finish.

Wear time (with/without primer): I obviously did not test the 24 hour wear claim, but this has very good staying power alone,  although I did still get a shiny nose. However with the introduction of a mattifying primer, wear time improved slightly, but more notably my shiny nose issues were significantly reduced. This foundation requires minimal touch ups (without primer), if at all any (with primer).

Price (ml): £25.50 FOR 25ml

Pros: 16 shades
You only need a small amount 

Cons: Can look heavy if you apply too much

Only 25ml
No Ingredients list on website

Suitable Skin Types: Normal, Oily, Combination

Ingredients: Not on the website (To be updated if on packaging)

Oxidation: None

Any Other Information: I am not usually an NW45 in Mac, so this is too red for me, so I have to highlight to counteract that. However it's not as bad a colour match as usual, one because it's summer, and 2 based on a couple of reviews on the mac website it appears these foundations run lighter than usual. So get colour matched if you are interested.

Conclusion: Considering I'm not a macaholic, I'm surprised how much I like this foundation. I was a little worried from the brands description, about the repelling moisture part, that it would be too drying on certain areas of my combination skin. I did not find that to be the case, this however is a medium to full coverage heavy duty foundation, and one I will personally reserve for going out, and summer months, but not necessarily day-to-day wear.

It is lightweight on the skin, especially for the flawless look it gives. If you are in the market for a longwearing high coverage foundation, or one for special occasions that photographs well you can't go far wrong with this. You can also get it here and here.

**Rating: Lust

*Pr Sample

**Ratings; Hate, Dislike, Like, Lust, Love

Aallexxy's Foundation Files; black|Up Paris Cream to Powder Foundation

Foundation Files; This is where I test out different base products, from concealer to powder, tinted moisturiser and foundation etc, over a period of 7-14 days and post my findings. (Follow me on Instagram, Twitter and Bloglovin so you don't miss a post) So let’s get started!!!

First off some information about me; Skintype: Combination (leaning dry in winter and Oily in Summer). Shade Reference: in between MAC NC45-50/NW43. Undertones: Yellow/Neutral.

black|Up Paris Cream to Powder Foundation

Brand: black|Up Paris

Name: Cream to Powder

Coverage: Medium

Shade: NFC 09

Swatch:

black|Up Paris Cream to Powder Foundation Swatch

What The brand says: This foundation is a true must have. When applied to skin, its unique creamy texture transforms into a silky powder with an impeccable matte finish. Its formula enriched with latest-generation matifying powders gets rid of sebum in a blink of an eye. The complexion looks smooth, radiant with a perfect velvety finish.

Its unique texture is very easy to apply with a sponge or a brush and is completely buildable, from a light powdery veil to complete coverage.

Wear time (with/without primer): This has great wear time on my skin, with and without primer, even a mattifying primer did not extend the wear time, my nose still got oily which is typical for me.

Price (ml): £29 for 0.28 oz

Pros: Oil Free
Paraben Free
Fragrance Free
16 Shades

Cons: Accessibility

No ingredients list on the website

Suitable Skin Types: Normal, Combination and Oily.

Ingredients: None on the website or the product itself.

Oxidation: None

Any Other Information: Housed in a mirrored compact, with accompanying sponge. Available from blackup paris website here or Debenhams.

Conclusion: This is a really nice foundation, that's great for the warmer months, it has great wear time and a good shade range. It's buildable, but I think most will get good medium coverage out of this. It can be a bit stiff in the compact, so fingers might be needed to warm the product up for application.

*Rating: Like

Ratings: Hate, Dislike, Like, Lust, Love

Deciem; Hylamide SubQ Eyes Advanced Serum

I continue my exploration into the Deciem brand with a skincare launch, Deciem have only been allowed to release this recently, due to previously working for a skincare brand. As you can imagine I was excited, if you have seen this post here and here, you will know that Deciem plan to redefine the beauty world one product launch at a time and they are certainly making waves.

Hylamide SubQ Eyes Advanced Serum

I have to say I don't often pick products based on there anti-ageing claims, even though I'm 30+ years old I often get mistaken for being younger, so I don't see dramatic results when I use anti-ageing products. However, we all know one of the first places those wrinkles appear are around the eyes, and I'm trying to stave them off as long as possible and maintain what I have, plus combat some dehydration that I have been professionally informed is currently present. Don't get me wrong, I am happy to grow old gracefully, but my main concern with my eyes is actually my eyelids. I've noticed with time they are becoming more droopy, where I was once wide eyed and bushy tailed, I am now just bushy tailed lol!!!



Anyway onto the product; SubQ Eyes is a high-strength serum concentrate that uses a wide array of peptides, plant saccharides and active technologies to rehydrate the fragile eye area below and above the surface, while targeted technologies visibly improve fine lines, crow's feet, puffiness and dark circles. Claiming to give immediate results, and continuous results within days and weeks of use. It's a thick off white serum dispensed through a dropper contained in a small glass bottle, it's easily absorbed and a little goes a long way.



I have to say I did not see immediate results, but like I said I don't have that many wrinkles, I did stop and restart using this and noticed a difference. I don't think anything is going to completely revert my droopy lids, and this makes no claims to do that, but in terms of prevention I like this serum. It costs £27 for 15ml, which when you consider the science and high level ingredients behind it, it's very reasonably priced compared to it's competition in today's market. It is available on the deciem website and boots.


Have you tried anything under the Deciem umbrella?


Thanks for visiting the blog today


Alex

Aallexxy's Foundation Files; Moisture Surge CC Cream Compact SPF25

Foundation Files; This is where I test out different base products, from concealer to powder, tinted moisturiser and foundation etc, over a period of 7-14 days and post my findings. (Follow me on Instagram,Twitter and Bloglovin so you don't miss a post) So let’s get started!!!

First off some information about me; Skintype: Combination (leaning dry in winter and Oily in Summer). Shade Reference:in between MAC NC45-50/NW43. Undertones: Yellow/Neutral.

Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream Compact SPF25

Brand: Clinique

Name: Moisture Surge CC Cream Compact SPF25

Coverage: Light - Light Medium

Shade: Deep

Swatch:

Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream Compact SPF25

What The brand says: Hydration, SPF and colour correcting optics in one simple step. Little flaws disappear-redness, dullness, sallowness-everything's brighter. Lightweight, oil-free hydration and sunscreen mean a more flawless look tomorrow, too. Each versatile shade is appropriate for a range of skin tones, also available in liquid form; Moisture Surge CC Cream Hydrating Colour Corrector SPF30, reviewed here. Can also be worn over your favourite clinique moisturiser (a great option for drier skins), men can wear it too-it blends easily for a healthy look.

Wear time (with/without primer): The wear time is good on this, despite it being for dry skin with and without primer, I ensured I prepared my skin accordingly with a lightweight moisturiser. 

Price (ml): £30 for 10g

Pros: SPF

Compact

Cream based

Great for travel

Sponge included

Mirror in the compact

No flash back

Hydrating

Cons: This is the darkest shade

Suitable Skin Types: Very dry - Dry combination

Ingredients:

Clinique Moisture Surge CC Cream Compact SPF25 Inci list

Oxidation: None

Any Other Information: Clinique state this is for dry to dry combination skin, so I was worried on my combination summer oily skin it would be a problem, especially with the warm weather we've been having. However it was great, my oils definitely pushed through as the day went on, but it gave me a glow not an oil slick look. Super oily girls may want to try the other version however, which I think has a wider shade range too. 

Conclusion: This is a great lightweight base with added SPF and hydration, in a compact that's great for travel. It leaves a nice skin like finish, whether applied with a sponge or a brush, but needs a shade extension. 

*Rating: Like 

*Ratings; Hate, Dislike, Like, Lust, Love

Aallexxy's Foundation Files; Ajcrimson Dual Skin Creme Foundation

Foundation Files; This is where I test out different base products, from concealer to powder, tinted moisturiser and foundation etc, over a period of 7-14 days and post my findings. (Follow me on Instagram,Twitter and Bloglovin so you don't miss a post) So let’s get started!!!

First off some information about me; Skintype: Combination (leaning dry in winter and Oily in Summer). Shade Reference:in between MAC NC45-50/NW43. Undertones: Yellow/Neutral.

Ajcrimson Dual Skin Creme Foundation

Brand: Ajcrimson

Name: Dual Skin Foundation

Coverage: Medium

Shade: #5 (according to the website comparable to mac NW45 in Studio Fix Fluid)

Swatch:

Ajcrimson Dual Skin Creme Foundation Swatch

What The brand says: AJ Crimson Creme Foundation perfect for every woman of color. Formulated by celebrity makeup artist AJ Crimson, promises to deliver smooth finish and coverage.

Wear time (with/without primer): The wear time on this is good, but I do require a touch-ups throughout the day, especially around my nose area even with primer.

Price (ml): $35

Pros: Lightweight
buildable coverage
Not cakey

Cons: Not a lot of information on the website
Poor accessibility in the UK
No ingredients listed

Suitable Skin Types: Dry and normal.  Combo and Oily skins will need good prep, especially during warmer months.

Ingredients: Not listed on the website, on the product or packaging.

Oxidation: None

Any Other Information: This colour is a little too red for my skintone, but when I swatched it at the makeup masterclass he did in London last month, 4.5 seemed too light and 6 was even more red toned than this. It balances it out once I apply concealer and a yellow toned powder.

Conclusion: This is a nice cream based founadtion, that's probably best suited to my combo skin in the cooler months

*Rating: Like

Ratings; Hate, Dislike, Like, Lust, Love

Sodastream and Dermalogica; To hydrate the nation from the inside out (SparklingSkin Kit)!!!

Last month I attended a beauty blogger event between collaborating brands Sodastream and Dermalogica, on the face of it you might think, what do these two brands have in common? Hydration, which makes perfect sense. It probably won't surprise you that the average Brit drinks less than the recommended daily amount of water, and for every cup of coffee you drink you should be drinking two cups of water to undo the dehydrating damage caffeine can have.



Dermalogica and Sodastream; SparklingSkin Kit #hydrationstation

Grow Gorgeous; Back Into The Roots 10 Minute Stimulating Scalp Mask

If you've seen this post, then it won't come as a surprise to you that I like most things that come out of the Deciem umbrella, and I'm yet to not like anything from Grow Gorgeous. So when I saw this Stimulating Scalp Mask I bought it without hesitation, I've used up an entire bottle of the Grow Gorgeous Serum, and will definitely repurchase it.

I love a good scalp tingling product, I was using Lush's Roots, but realised after a got a brazilian Blowdry that it contains SLS. This is now my happy replacement, you apply this to your scalp, wait 10 minutes and rinse. It helps promotes scalp circulation, stimulate hair follicles, lifts hair at the roots to give the appearance of thicker, fuller hair. It has a blend of vitamins, caffeine, biotin and low-molecular weight hyaluronic acid!!!

I apply this to my dry scalp, apply a deep conditioner to the rest of my hair, put on a shower cap and wait at least 20minutes before continuing with the rest of my wash day routine. It's £24 for 240ml, but if you sign up to the website's newsletter they often send out discount codes, I got 20% off this.

It's here, I've also just noticed they have an intense version of the hair serum, that's definitely on my wishlist!!!

Have you tried anything from Growgorgeous?

Thanks for visiting the blog today

Alex

Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Complexion Correcting Serum!!!

About 3 weeks ago I attended a blogger event for the launch of a new product by Caudalie, it was all about dark spots and some of the extreme and wierd measures women have taken to combat them, think onions, actually snails, flowers....seriously!!!

 

I thinks it's no surprise that dark spots are the 3rd biggest beauty concern for women, it's definitely one of mine, the event brought to my attention the fact that I didn't have a blogpost on one of my favourite serums, so here it is.

The new launch are these Vinoperfect Radiance Tinted Moisturisers SPF20 in Light and Medium, unfortunately they are not brown girl friendly, hopefully more shades will be released. They work in conjunction with the serum to continue fighting, preventing, covering and protecting against dark spot formation during the day. SPF is just as important to prevent further dark spots forming as treating the pigmentation itself, and some anti-dark spot treatment can make you sun sensitive, which is a recipe for dark spot formation.

That brings me onto the Vinoperfect Radiance Serum, which uses Viniferine (grapevine sap), which is 62 times more effective than vitamin C. Viniferine will not make you photosensitive, it's still important to use sunscreen, but it's good to know your anti-dark spot treatment isn't going to potentially cause the very thing you're trying to fight. I couldn't recommend this serum highly enough, I use it mainly at night at the moment, but twice day application is recommended , it's a beautiful hydrating lightweight serum.

Have you tried this serum? Is dark spots one of your concerns? What's the wierdest thing you've tried to combat them?

Thanks for visiting the blog today

Alex