Beauty Blog

Trendwatch: Nude nails anyone?

January 28th, 2011

nude_nail_trends

If you managed to catch any of the red carpet pics at the recent Emmy Awards you’ll no doubt be aware one of the big trends we can look out for this SS11 is nude nails.

As it just so happens we didn’t catch anything until someone burst through our door with a copy of Glamour suggesting that as a Nail Polish Remover we might want to start packing our bags in the event that this really takes off.

Being the sort of folks who panic easily all at L’Onglex were concerned and decided to do a little research of our own. Yes, it would appear that nude nails are here thanks in the main to a certain fashion guru by the name of David Barton. No, this does not mean that we have ditched the polish and L’Onglex is unemployed – as evidenced above by the paws of Heidi Klum !

As if to prove for certain that ‘going natural’ doesn’t make our beauty routines any easier, it seems that after all that panic this seasons must have nails involve nude polishes rather than no polish and, as luck would have it ( just when we were breathing a big sigh of relief ) what should land through our door other than five shades from Maybeline.

Ivory Rose, Taupe Couture and Nude Rose are in pharmacies now and Rosey Sand & Rose Poudre will launch in March. As the price is only a fiver we at L’Onglex may be stocking up – watch this space for some swatches !

http://www.glamour.com/beauty/blogs/girls-in-the-beauty-department/2010/11/are-you-into-the-nude-nail-pol.html

If you managed to catch any of the red carpet pics at the recent Emmy Awards you’ll no doubt be aware one of the big trends we can look out for this SS11 is nude nails.

Image sourced from Glamour Magazine

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Posted in Beauty news, Love your nails, Maybelline, Nail polish, Nail swatches |

Pump up the volume – it’s our mascara picks

January 10th, 2011

Pump up the Volume – some of our favourite Mascaras

Don’t really know how this happened exactly but somewhere along the way L’Onglex seemed to fall in love with volumising mascaras. Why exactly this was, how this developed, and when exactly we started making eyes at lash thickening products we can’t tell you. As is always the case for those with an addiction to the slap, one is never satisfied and we knew we wouldn’t be happy til we’d tried everything we could get our greedy hands on.

Having really thought about it, the desire to lash up probably came as a result of our eyes exploding when we tried out those glue on lash thingies at a salon who shall remain nameless. Obviously, being the sort we are, the thought of having luridly long, outrageously luscious lashes was too good not to be true. But once the things were glued on and we’d had to suffer the ignominy of having to crawl back to a salon indifferent to our plight and beg for the things to be unglued from our peepers we became a little more discerning about we stick on our eyes.

Anyhows, before we bore you to sleep with our sob stories we can at least reveal the fruits of our labour. No, we haven’t tried everything out there but we can say hand on heart that we’ve been through enough to now know a good un’ from a bad un’. Here, for your consideration, are a selection of the best volumising mascaras that we’ve managed to find over the last year – read it, and don’t weep !

Lesson 1 – Chanel Inimitable Intense is best for length….

Those of you with a desire for some length, some volume and a certain elegance of application will love this one. As the the uniquely designed mascara wand features bristles which align really well each sweep tends to go on really smoothly. Ok, it’s not the fattest lash you’ll ever flutter but it doesn’t cake or crack and the formula is really thin which helps with building the stuff in layers. As a mascara for daywear this is light enough for lengthening by day and can be beefed up for something a bit less subtle for evening wear. Although they probably won’t thank us for saying this, €28 isn’t particularly purse friendly but as it’s pretty adaptable Inimitable Intense makes our list.

Lesson 2 – Rimmel’s The Max Volume Flash is best value….

A keratin enriched formula, a larger than life wand and soup-thick lashes in less than two sweeps … it can only be Rimmel Max Volume ! At about €8 a pop this is about the best we’ve worn in this price range. In fact, it was one of the best we wore full stop. Having been on the L’Onglex make-up table for some time a rather nice effect of using this was that over time we found our formerly flimsy fluttering went from bad to better. As the formula for Max Volume contains added collagen our lashes fattened up with prolonged use – can’t say fairer than that !

Lesson 3 – Model Co Fiber Lash is more than a gimmick …

As mentioned in other posts on these pages L’Onglex’s biggest beauty gripe has to be our panda eyes. After this comes the fact that even at best our lashes could only be described as .. well .. ‘barely there’. Being in need of a little substance to go with a raging case of lash envy when we first laid eyes on Model Co Fiber Lash we ended up doing a bit of a double take.

Simply, this is a two part mascara which comes blacker than black and is applied and then layered over with hundreds of teeny tiny lash filaments which add density and volume to the liquid. The end result is bulky, sultry and a complete fake. On the downside it’s €35 but if you really struggle to get something noticeable in the lash department you may as well bit the bullet rather than go through three or four of something else. Despite the fact that it sounds quite complex application isn’t to difficult once you’ve got the hang of it.

Lesson 4 – Maybeline’s The Falsies is anything but ….

Whoever devised the formula for The Falsies deserves to be bestowed some kind of beauty sainthood. No matter how many coats you apply it just builds and the fact is unless your really working the whole starry eyed goth look you probably only need one-and-a-half. Yes, if your lashes are are really short it’s probably not the best but on the hand if there long enough so that you can get them round the spoon shaped brush we think this is perfect. As soon as we’d worked out that you have to let the first coat dry a little to keep things neat we were quickly of the opinion that this is the best mascara we’ve ever had.

best_mascaras

Don’t really know how this happened exactly but somewhere along the way L’Onglex seemed to fall in love with volumising mascaras.

Why exactly this was, how this developed, and when exactly we started making eyes at lash thickening products we can’t tell you. As is always the case for those with an addiction to the slap, one is never satisfied and we knew we wouldn’t be happy til we’d tried everything we could get our greedy hands on.

Having really thought about it, the desire to lash up probably came as a result of our eyes exploding when we tried out those glue on lash thingies at a salon who shall remain nameless.

Obviously, being the sort we are, the thought of having luridly long, outrageously luscious lashes was too good not to be true. But once the things were glued on and we’d had to suffer the ignominy of having to crawl back to a salon indifferent to our plight and beg for the things to be unglued from our peepers we became a little more discerning about what we would be sticking on our eyes in future.

So, before we bore you with our sob stories we can at the very least reveal the fruits of our labour. No, we haven’t tried everything that’s out there but we can say hand on heart that we’ve been through enough to now know a good un’ from a bad un’.

Here, for your consideration, are a selection of the best volumising mascaras that we’ve managed to find over the last year – read it, and don’t weep !

Lesson 1 – Chanel Inimitable Intense is best for length….

Those of you with a desire for some length, some volume and a certain elegance of application will love this one. Ok, it’s not the fattest lash you’ll ever flutter but it doesn’t cake or crack and the formula is really thin which helps with building the stuff in layers.

As a mascara for daywear this is light enough for lengthening and can be beefed up for something a bit less subtle should you need it. Although they probably won’t thank us for saying this, €28 isn’t particularly purse friendly but as it’s pretty adaptable Inimitable Intense makes our list.

Lesson 2 – Rimmel’s The Max Volume Flash is best value….

Having been on the L’Onglex make-up table for ages we also found that a rather nice effect of using this was that over time we found our formerly flimsy fluttering went from a state of ‘bad’ to a state of …. ‘much better’. Later we discovered that as the formula for Max Volume contains added collagen our lashes fattened up with prolonged use and you can’t say fairer than that !

Lesson 3 – Model Co Fiber Lash is more than a gimmick …

Being in need of a little substance to cure our raging case of lash envy when we first laid eyes on Model Co Fiber Lash we ended up doing a bit of a double take – would it work … how does it work ?

The end result is bulky, sultry and a completely gorgeous fake. On the downside, it costs €35, but if you really struggle to get something noticeable in the lash department you may as well bite the bullet on the cost rather than go through three or four of something less effective. Despite the fact that the whole getting-it-on business sounds quite complex, application isn’t too difficult once you’ve got the hang of it.

Lesson 4 – Maybeline’s The Falsies is anything but ….

Whoever devised the formula for The Falsies deserves to be bestowed some kind of beauty sainthood. No matter how many coats you apply it just builds and the fact is unless you’re really working the whole starry eyed goth look you probably only need a sweep and a half.

Ok – if your lashes are really short it’s probably not the best but if your lashes are long enough to get them around the spoon shaped brush we think this is perfect. As soon as we’d worked out that you have to let the first coat dry a little to keep things neat we were quickly of the opinion that this is the best volumising mascara we’ve ever had ….. we think !

1 Comment »

Posted in Beauty gadgets, Beauty heroes, Beauty reviews, Chanel, Eyeshadow and mascaras, L'Onglex loves, Maybelline, Model Co, Rimmel |

New shades by Nails Inc

August 18th, 2010

Another day and another new collection is waiting for L’Onglex. This evening we’ve just got news of the latest collection from Nails Inc and we thought that rather than wait we’d just share the new colours as quickly as we could.

Due to hit shelves tomorrow the collection includes four glossy muted shades that wouldn’t look out of place beside Chanel’s Particuliere or the new Paradoxal and we must say we are rather looking forward to trying them when the time comes.

The winter catwalks have been all about soft tones, neat detailing and plenty of greiging so it comes as no surprise to L’Onglex that the shades include the grey/lilac shades of Lowndes Square, the glossy gunmetal of Duke of Wellington Place or the rather regal black overtones of Queensgate Mews.

L’Onglex’s favourite is the rich dark taupes contained within Palace Garden Terrace and as soon as we get some ….. and we will get some ….. we’ll have it on our paws and on the blog in no time. For any of you who are wondering where our regular swatches have gone and why we have slowed down on the bright shades of summer the truth is we are badly in need of a mani and thought we’d give our nails a rest before we kick off the autumn shades with Chanel ———–

nails_inc_autumn_colours

L’Onglex’s favourite is the rich dark taupes contained within Palace Garden Terrace and as soon as we get hold of a bottle we’ll have it on the blog quicksmart.

For any of you who are wondering where our regular swatches have gone and why we have slowed down on the bright shades of summer, the truth is we are badly in need of a mani and thought we’d give our nails a rest before we kick off the autumn shades with Chanel’s Rouge Fatal.

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Posted in Beauty news, Love your nails, Maybelline, Nail polish, Nails Inc |

Dewy skin anyone ?

July 16th, 2010

When it comes to make-up one of the most popular looks for summer is the one everyone is calling Dewey Skin. Young, fresh and glistening it’s a look that’s really caught our eye as it works toward a smoother, fresher, more natural finish that you can wear anywhere. We’re also loving the look because rather than just slapping on the products and heading out the door this is as much about about routine and taking the holistic approach to skin which has to better in the long term. Here’s some pointers:

Exfoliate

In life they say take the rough with the smooth but if it’s dewy skin your after this simply won’t do. A good but gentle exfoliation on regular basis will help slough away the dead skin leaving a smoother more useful base. You don’t need to overdo it since stripping away too much given the weather will dry out rather than smoothing skin so take it easy and the looks a breeze. We’ve been using Voya’s Love Scrub with seaweed extract which is perfect for more sensitive exfoliation.

Mosturise

Plump, firm, hydrated skin is the base for getting a good dewy look so use a cream that locks in the moisture and hydrates for longer. If your skin type is dry try working in intensive overnight treatments. A while ago on the blog we found out about Argon Oil which is really good for overnight repairs. We’ve been loving Naturelle D’Agan which is available at BT’s. Plenty of vitamin E and a unique concentration of fatty acids if you manage to get your hands on the pure version.

Use a face mist

For the ultimate dewy base spritz skin with a facial toner before you apply make-up. Not only will this refresh tired skin but it will give your skin a perfectly hydrated base for applying foundation which in turn means you can use less foundation and won’t have to touch up as often. If your skin is too dry even the best foundations tend to flake so a spritz in time might spare your blushers !

Use an illiuminator

Being as we at L’Onglex do nothing with our days other than talking shop about make-up we’re quickly learning a few tricks of the trade. At the time of writing there are two illuminators which we simply can’t do without, St Tropez skin illuminator which is perfect for highlighting and the more sun kissed look and Mac’s Strobe Cream which is a bit lighter and works perfectly before applying foundation.

Swap powders for cream

Obviously there’s a time and a place for everything but at this time of year powdered make-up tends to dry out skin and can leave you with that caked on appearance. Swapping your solid foundations for a cream versions like Maybelines Dream Creamy Foundation will give better hydration and is a bit better at not clogging the pores. On a similar note, powdered eyeshadow works in a similar way so lighter highlighters like Benefits Creaseless Cream in Champagne are better for a fresher, more natural finish.

As with any new regime their are side effects so whilst we can’t say for certain this will make you look ridiculously young, you may wish to take the some precautions in advance. So, when a stranger asks your sister if she is your mum try not to laugh too hard, and of course it goes without saying that you should learn not to gloat when the man at the check out asks you for ID when you do the monthly wine shop !

When it comes to make-up one of the most popular looks for summer is the one everyone is calling Dewy Skin. Young, fresh and glistening it’s a look that’s really caught our eye as it works toward a smoother, fresher, more natural finish that you can wear anywhere.

We’re also loving the look because rather than just slapping on the products and heading out the door this is as much about routine and taking the holistic approach to skin which has to better in the long term.

Here’s some pointers:

Exfoliate

In life they say take the rough with the smooth but if it’s dewy skin your after this simply won’t do. A good but gentle exfoliation on a regular basis will help slough away the dead skin leaving a smoother more youthful base.

You don’t need to overdo it since stripping away too much will dry out rather than smooth skin. Short, regular and easy on the scrub. We’ve been using Voya’s Love Scrub with seaweed extract which is perfect for more sensitive skin and regular exfoliation.

More moisture

A while ago on the blog we found out about Argon Oil which is really good for overnight repairs. We’ve been loving Naturelle D’Agan which is available at BT’s. Plenty of vitamin E and a unique concentration of fatty acids if you manage to get your hands on the pure version you’ll find it lasts forever.

Use a face mist

For the ultimate dewy base spritz skin with a facial toner before you apply make-up. Not only will this refresh tired skin but it will give a well hydrated base for applying foundation which in turn means you can use less and won’t have to touch up as often. If skin is too dry even the best foundations tend to flake so a spritz in time might spare your blushers !

Use an illiuminator

Being as we at L’Onglex do nothing with our days other than talking shop about make-up we’re quickly learning a few tricks of the trade. At the time of writing there are two illuminators which we simply can’t do without, St Tropez Skin Illuminator which is perfect for highlighting and gives a more sun kissed look and Mac’s Strobe Cream which is a bit lighter and works perfectly as a base before applying foundation.

Swap powders for cream

On a similar note, powdered eyeshadow works in a similar way so lighter highlighters like Benefits Creaseless Cream in Champagne work for a fresher, more natural finish.

As with any new regime their are side effects so whilst we can’t say for certain this will make you look ridiculously young, you may wish to take the some precautions in advance. So, when a stranger asks your sister if she is your mum try not to laugh too hard and of course it goes without saying that you should learn not to gloat when the man at the check out asks you for ID when you do the monthly wine shop !

We love desert chic

May 26th, 2010

st_tropez_bronze_rocks

When it comes to summer beauty trends we at L’Onglex aren’t the sort of folks likely to bury our heads in the sand. Yet when we came across the soft, golden and oh so flattering tones of the look we’re calling ‘desert chic’ what choice have we but to give it an honourable mention on our blog.

Insired by the catwalk looks of Burberry, Alexander Wang and Celine and using corals, burnt orange and warm dusty bronzers we are loving this look so we’ve put together a veritable oasis of make-up goodies to work with all things desert inspired.

The base
When it comes to post-apocalyptic beauty a sand blasted mineral base is a good place to start. Paler skins should try NYC’s natural mineral foundation followed by a sweep of bronzer like St Tropez’s Bronzing Rocks. Tanned beauties should look to find some summer shimmer in tones of Warmth All-Over Face Color by Bare minerals. A warm velvety shade, this works wonders at lifting complexions and will leave skin with a sensual soft glow.

The Eyes

For the eyes mix tones of gold, brown and a hint of orange for full on queen of the desert beauty.

Work with light creams from the base of the lash line right up to the brow bone and then layer out with softer golds and oranges over the top. A sweep of soft brown kohl like Mac’s Costa Riche should give eyes the some great definition and if you fancy some full on desert chic a little smudging should go a long way in convincing the world that you really were an extra from the camel scenes in SATC2.

The lips

Rich colours are one thing for the eyes and the cheeks, but like most looks this summer when it comes to the kissers a drop or two of something in a natural palette will do the trick.

Use understated natural shades or at most a touch of something coral. We found the light pinky tones of Maybeline’s Pink Cadillac to be perfectly just the shade but a touch of Rimmel’s Moisture Renew lipstick in soft coral might not be overdoing the whole ‘desert chic’ ethic.

Summer foundation guide

April 8th, 2010

82011280_1_Maybelline_Dream_Creamy_Foundation_30_Sand

Swapping your winter foundation for a lighter summery variety can unearth all sorts of problems. Luckily the L’Onglex in-house Guinea Pigs (that’s us!), have been working hard this week trying to find the very best summer base options.

If your a fan of the dewy base look that’s been so popular this year then a swish or two of Maybelline’s Dream Cream Foundation should work quite well. The foundation comes as a solid compact but once applid to the skin it transforms into a light liquid foundation which is really what gives it that soft, even base. If your skins a bit mixed this might not be the one for you but at €12 we think it’s pretty good value.

Those of you who prefer your coverage on the lighter side will love MAC’s cult favorite Face and Body foundation. Light enough to be ‘barely there’ while still giving enough coverage to ensure an even skin tone, this beauty can be used on the face, arms and even legs – short skirt anyone!. We love the stuff and although it’s been around for a while now were still waiting to find anything that really compares for summer use.

So far so good. But then there’s the whole post-holiday / I sat in the sun too long at my mate terry’s BBQ type skin routine. Which were pretty much agreed is probably the trickiest of all. Its great to come back from holiday all tanned and refreshed, but it does play havoc with the beauty regime. It wouldn’t be so bad were it just natural light you have to put up with, but artificial light just makes balancing the neck, face, tan and body shades too much.

This week we’ve been having a look at the latest offering from the boffins at Guerlain who are riding to the rescue on a tastefully tinted steed that is Teint D’Ailleurs. If we at L’Onglex ever found ourselves looking healthy enough to use it, we would love this, and not just because it comes with complete with SPF10. It’s perfect for tanned skin and as this is also a tinted moisturiser it blends quite well with lighter liquid foundations so you should be able to mix as you need to.

We’ll probably do some more of these as we find them. If were missing anything or you know something we don’t, give us the heads up by leaving us a comment.

3 Comments »

Posted in Beauty news, Beauty reviews, Foundations and concealers, MAC, Make up tips/how to, Maybelline |

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Trendwatch: Nude nails anyone?

Pump up the volume – it’s our mascara picks

New shades by Nails Inc

Dewy skin anyone ?

We love desert chic

Summer foundation guide

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