One of the best parts of being a beauty blogger is finding really cool things and telling you all about them. I’m not sure if it’s something in the collective beauty industry water, but this latest crop of beauty innovations really is top-notch. I feel like every time I open my inbox there’s a sexy new product or formula waiting for me. Not that I’m complaining. Here are five of my favourite new beauty launches just in time for summer.
Revlon Colorstay Moisture Stain
I must have been living under a rock, but it’s only been in the past two years that I’ve realized how utterly amazing Revlon products are. I’m consistently impressed with the brand’s new offerings and the Revlon Colorstay Moisture Stain lacquers are no exception. The opaque, creamy, moisturizing formula is a serious dupe for Dior Addict Fluid Sticks at a fraction of the price – these will run you about $12.95 at drugstores.
Revlon Colorstay Moisture Stain in Rio Rush (pink) + Cannes Crush (coral)
The colours are all seriously bangin’ – I’ve been wearing Cannes Crush (coral) non-stop since receiving the samples at a press event about a month ago and am already planning to scoop up nearly every shade. And you wonder why my makeup collection verges on the edge of having my own TLC special….
You’ll have to touch these up – they don’t last forever – but they leave a nice light stain so you don’t get the dreaded ring-mouth. Buy, buy, buy!
Stila Magnificent Metals Foil Finish Eyeshadow
I know – you’re probably sitting in front of your computer right now saying “Steph, step away from the gold”. While it may be true that my obsession with all things gilded has reached a seemingly never-ending peak (you should see my wedding Pinterest boards), I’m maintaining that it wasn’t pure insanity to drop $42 on this gold foil eyeshadow. Yes, I spent $42 on eyeshadow. Cue the calls to the asylum.
I couldn’t resist the promise of shiny gold-coated lids for summer, though. I feel like I say this constantly, but this shadow layers beautifully and the primer it comes with allows it to go on fairly smoothly and with relative staying power. I shamelessly smudged on a light coat of sparkle for a Jays game recently and can’t wait to really get my gild on for upcoming summer weddings.
This may feel like a crazy splurge and it probably is. However, this product is really cool and is guaranteed to make you smile. It really does look just like foil and it comes in a variety of shades. Give it a go at Sephora or Murale – I dare you to try and walk out without it. (OK – I’ll be honest…I walked out without it once, but you’d better believe I went back for it. #nowillpower)
Benefit They’re Real! Push-Up Liner
Revolutionary eyeliner. Yes, revolutionary. This liner is the first fool-proof gel liner in a pen…and it dries matte. Benefit They’re Real! Push-Up Gel Liner ($29) is hitting stores very shortly and is a whole new eyeliner experience. The AccuFlex tip is soft and is custom-angled to draw an easy line. The sharpness of the applicator allows you to draw a cat-eye with ease and the flat, wide guard gently pushes your lashes aside to help “hug” your lash line.
I’m not saying it’s a treat to apply from the get-go – in fact, you’ll have to re-learn how to apply your eyeliner a bit and will probably feel a little frustrated at first – but once you get the hang of it the results are undeniable. It feels effortless and the budge-proof, matte, waterproof formula will win you over. The team at Benefit has been working on this for years and I can speak to the audible gasps when it was revealed at a recent press event. The coolest part for me – aside from the awesome tip – is that you’ll never again have your gel liner dry out on you or have to rummage around in your makeup drawers for a liner brush.
Soap & Glory Sit Tight Intense XS Targeted Skin Firming Body Serum
It’s swimsuit season so try not to be shocked that I’m showing you a product that promises to firm up your bottom. What I love best about this innovative new product is that you’re encouraged to be lazy while using it. You see, the serum is “sit activated” – you apply it and then put on your clothes and sit around while it works.
This could be a placebo effect generated by the fact that this serum will make your butt + thighs (or whatever you apply it to) feel like they’re burning up, but I swear my skin felt tighter after a single use. Whatever works, right?
Vichy Capital Soleil SPF 30 Invisible Mist
As the palest Sicilian you’ve ever seen, I’m a huge champion of SPF. The weather’s heating up, so it’s more important than ever to protect your skin. To avoid my two sunscreen pet peeves: greasy skin and messy application, give Vichy’s new 0% alcohol sunscreen mist a try. At about $30, it’s not a steal but you’ll love how it feels on your skin. This sunscreen is suitable for all skin types – even sensitive skin! – and contains Vichy Thermal Spa Water to fortify, soothe and regenerate your skin. It won’t clog your pores, is paraben-free and is hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. Essentially, this is free of the really bad stuff, full of the really good stuff and dries quickly. It shouldn’t be a surprise that I love it!
[line]What are your favourite new beauty innovations? Which of these are you going to give a try this summer?
