Murad Skincare: Hydro-Dynamic Ultimate Moisture Review & Giveaway!

As many of you know I like to keep my skin and hair moisturized, radiant and noticeably healthy so recently I have added a few new items to my daily beauty routine. Murad skincare has gained well deserved popularity for their excellent range of products, quality ingredients and effective formulas and whether you have oily, normal combination, dry or sensitive skin there are potent formulas to soothe, nourish and rejuvenate.

If your face craves a regenerating complexion boost the Hydro-Dynamic Ultimate Moisturizer is a savior for dehydrated, flaky skin. In the summer I tend to fluctuate between oily and dry which can be a delicate balancing act when it comes to products. One thing that remains constant is my need for hydration, especially at night when I can apply the treatments heavier and let my skin recoup during beauty sleep. No matter what skin type you have a great moisturizer is essential!

The Hydro-Dynamic Age Reform is sumptuously rich, non-greasy, intensely hydrating and velvety smooth. Although I do have many creams this one stands out because it dramatically improves my skin’s moisture retention and locks it in for 8 hours! Even after face washing which tends to diminish the effects of most products this formula continues to keep dryness at bay for youthful, healthy looking skin. After thoroughly covering my face I like to rub the leftover into my hands, nails and cuticles to keep my summer mani looking sharp! 

I usually apply the cream to my face and neck at night and it provides instant relief of tightness caused by cleansers. It also restores resiliency, improves skin tone, supports collagen and plumps with the infusion of avocado, sunflower, shea butter, oat, amino acids and fruit oils. During the day you can layer it more sparing and pair it with broad-spectrum sunscreen for more protection. It swiftly abolishes peeling, dry patches and roughness while keeping skin supple, smooth and shine-free under makeup. The moisturizer retails for $72.00.

Cute summer dresses, skirts and backless tops have now emerged from winter hibernation and showing a little more skin calls for the High Performance Bodycare Youth Builder Collection. 

It all starts in the shower with an invigorating, fluffy lather of Detoxifying White Clay Cleanser. This non-drying, lush formula is enriched with safflower oil, sunflower, ginger root and amino acids that stimulates circulation and leaves skin smooth, refreshed and hydrated. The scent is calmingly pleasant and just a small swirl on a bath puff produces a luxurious abundance of foaming bubbles that clean and condition.

The Firming Peptide Body Treatment begins as a smooth cream that transforms into a light oil as you massage it into damp or dry skin. I love that the formula highlights my arms and legs for a beautiful summer glow and it feel lightweight, hydrating and non-greasy. The oil makes my skin appear luminous and healthy with wonderful reparative effects for dry feet, heels and cuticles.

The kit I have is travel friendly and you can purchase Murad products at Sephora and Muradcanada.com.

Giveaway!

Since I am totally obsessed with this amazing moisturizer I have teamed up with Murad to host a great giveaway! One lucky reader will win the Hydro-Dynamic Ultimate Moisturizer ($72.00 value) and be on road to hydrated, healthy skin! This giveaway is open to residents of Canada only and runs from Thursday May 14th- Thursday June 11th 2015. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

~Winner Announcement!~

Congratulations to Tammy Dalley! I hope you enjoy this moisturizer as much as I do! Thanks to everyone who entered, I have another fabulous makeup giveaway coming up shortly so stay tuned for more great beauty posts and prizes.

Disclaimer and Rules: (Please Read)

This Murad skincare giveaway hosted by Diary of a Trendaholic is open to residents of Canada only and is sponsored by Murad. One winner will be chosen at random via Rafflecopter (random.org) to receive (1) Hydro-Dynamic Ultimate Moisturizer valued at $72.00 as outlined in this review post. All information must be entered correctly as specified via Rafflecoptor and entrants must be following at least 1 of my social media accounts and my blog via Bloglovin or Google Friends Connect (GFC) to qualify, (only viable entries will be considered). The giveaway begins on Thursday May 14th and ends on Thursday June 11th 2015 at 12am Eastern Time Zone.

            One eligible winner will be announced on http://diaryofatrendaholic.blogspot.ca/ within two weeks following the giveaway end date and entrants must be at least 18 years of age to participate. The winner must send their mailing address (no PO Box addresses) and contact information to diaryofatrendaholic@outlook.com to receive the prize. Winners will also be contacted by email if a valid email address is provided. In the event that the winner does not claim the prize within 3 days after being contacted a second winner will be selected at random or another thereafter until the prize is claimed. Falsified entries or entries that cannot be verified may be disqualified at the discretion of the blog owner.

Diary of a Trendaholic is not responsible for a lost package(s), delays, damages or any other issues that occur during shipping, handling, processing or mailing. The winner’s email information will be forwarded to Murad’s PR department for shipping and all related costs. 

All beauty products received by the giveaway winner(s) must be used at his or her discretion in compliance with the directions on the product (s). The blog owner is not responsible for any adverse skin or medical reactions associated with the use of any product(s) sent to the winner. By accepting the prize the winner(s) completely release the blog owner of all legal liability pertaining to any and all side effects associated with the use of the products won.

By accepting the prize the winner(s) agree to comply with the rules and regulations herein which cannot be contested including the use of any legal action against the blog owner or Murad. The blog owner reserves the right to amend or cancel this giveaway at any time without prior notice. Entrants will be deemed to have accepted the official terms and conditions (“the rules”) and are agreed to be bound by them. By entering this giveaway you agree to the collection of personal information however your details will not be disclosed to other persons or entities except for mailing purposes. 

The promotion of this giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed, administered or associated with Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, Pinterest, Facebook or any other social media sites and blogging platforms. By participating you agree to a complete release of any liability for all websites that may have been used to promote this giveaway.

*PR samples featured

Giveaway featured on: Giveaway Promote 

Canada Contests at AllCanadaContests.com

Born Pretty Matte Eyeshadow Palette: Summer Shades!

Today I have another review on an item I recently got from Born Pretty but this time it’s all about bright, vivid hues that make a bold statement! If you haven’t stopped by the website yet they have some fabulous beauty items including a wide range of nail polish/nail art, lashes, brush sets, cosmetics, accessories and much more. The great thing about the site is that many of the products go on sale so you can often find great deals and if you are just starting out with makeup there are many palettes to practice and play around with.

The 18 shade matte eyeshadow palette incorporates a few basic colors like black, brown, beige and even purple but what really got my attention was the bright greens, yellow, red and pinks which are eye catching and exciting! Some of these hues may not be suitable paired with your everyday office attire but they do compliment fun summer prints.

I expected the colors to show up as vibrantly as they appear in the pans but many of them are actually quite sheer and tame. The yellows, blues and pinks are not as saturated when applied to skin yet the fiery sunset red and playful neon green are bright and can be layered for bolder pigmentation. 

The coverage is rather inconsistent throughout the palette and some hues apply chalky and translucent while others are smooth and rich. There are also a few unusable shades including white, pale yellow and a grey that is flat and totally boring. The texture is quite smooth as many of the shadows are lightweight and slightly creamy but the color payoff is a bit disappointing. Although I love how much product you get from the large circles I expected better quality and you definitely cannot skip or skimp on the primer when working with these. On the bright side you can improve the finish by layering and blending well and some of the hues are still very striking.

I may not be able to achieve all the effects I wanted with this palette but the pinks and even the faint purple can also be used as blush. The packaging is very plain and there is no brand name but the shadows don’t crease so if you are going for a light wash of color or brilliant summery looks these are decent.

(swatched heavily over primer)

I have some gorgeous palettes from Born Pretty and although this one isn't my favorite I will use it to experiment with colors that are just outside my comfort zone. You can find this item by clicking- HERE it retails for $21.63 with FREE worldwide shipping!

If you use the code EDH10 below you can also get an additional 15% off your order!

*Press samples featured 

VIICode O2M Oxygen Eye Masks Review

Reducing the appearance of dark circles and puffiness can seem like an uphill battle especially for those whose genetics, lifestyle or lack of sleep frequently cast unsightly shadows under the eyes. Even with a radiant complexion hyperpigmentation can make you look tired haggard and stressed causing some women (myself included) to temporarily remedy the situation by layering on heavy concealers or correctors which can look cakey and irritate delicate skin. I have tried many different products but when eye creams are not effective enough on their own it may be time to target the source and try something more potent and healing.

The O2M Oxygen Eye Masks by VIICode are unlike any other I've tried before! These soft gel masks fit comfortably under all eye shapes and are formulated to be worn overnight. As you get your beauty sleep the rich serum infused pads packed with essential vitamins, antioxidants, proteins, botanicals, peptides and essential fatty acids go to work to regenerate and revive the sensitive eye area.

Although the packaging leaves much to be desired it’s what’s on the inside that counts and after 8 hours of treatment I saw a visible difference! The darkness under my eyes was reduced enough to impress me and I looked fresh, awake and bright-eyed. The texture of my skin was also noticeably improved; it felt smooth, soft and intensely hydrated which is just what I need since my skin tends to get a bit dry.

I don’t suffer from bags or fine lines but the masks also target the signs of aging with active cell oxygen that helps repair, even texture and diminish the look of wrinkles to improve vitality and elasticity. They are also cruelty-free, made in the USA, safe for all skin types and the portable packets slip into a purse or carry-on for use during travel.

The eye strips can be used 2-3 times per week and come in a box with 6 pairs for $59.99. They are very easy to apply with a thick, jelly-like substance that adheres well to the skin and stays secure even if you toss and turn in your sleep like I tend to do. The strips are also enriched with aloe and vitamin E to soothe and alleviate tired eyes and I noticed a long-lasting cooling sensation that seemed to stimulate circulation, target specific areas and deeply rejuvenate. For an extra boost you can pop the pads in the fridge for 10-20 mins before use which helps activate the ingredients and increase the invigorating sensation.

If you are sensitive to fragrances this formula is mild and relatively odorless. Although the price tag may put this beauty product in the splurge category I think the results are quite dramatic especially when used over time and in rotation with other trusted eye products.  

Because the masks are large enough to cover dark circles plus some of the skin underneath and around the eyes they also help brighten and moisturize the areas you highlight when applying makeup and they seem to help reduce enlarged pores. I like that the formula is not wet or dripping so it didn't seep into my eyes or burn and I did notice that I required less concealer the next morning!

If you are looking for a great pick-me-up and a dark circle savior especially before a big social event then these little masks may be the secret weapon! You can add them to your night time routine with ease or use them after tiresome days, jet lag and anytime you want to recharge your complexion and look healthy and energized! You can order the eye masks on Amazon by clicking HERE.

*Press samples featured 

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas: The Body Shop Vitamin E Special Edition Skincare Collection

This Mother’s Day treat mom like a queen and show your appreciation by giving her the gift of gorgeous skin! The Body Shop is celebrating a British icon- the original Queen Bee herself by artfully packaging their best selling vitamin E range in a fun, regal design.

If you read the ingredient list on your skincare bottles like I do then chances are you will see the inclusion of vitamins, oils and other nutritive properties. Vitamin E is a powerfully versatile antioxidant that protects and repairs skin by decreasing free radicals that damage collagen, cause dryness, fine lines and wrinkles- everything mom wants to avoid!

The Vitamin E Aqua Boost Sorbet has a refreshing gel-cream consistency and velvety soft texture to quench dry skin for up to 24 hours. The lightweight moisturizer absorbs quickly with no greasiness and smells like summer in a jar with a fragrant burst of flowers. It is also packed with skin conditioning emollients, rich shea butter, wheat germ and soybean oil to efficiently hydrate without making you look shiny as the day heats up. If you spend a little too much time frolicking in the sun and need something to rejuvenate and soothe this formula cools on contact and gently softens. The Aqua Boost is suitable for all skin types and retails for $20.00.

The Vitamin E Overnight Serum-In-Oil is a wonderful addition to your skincare routine and as you get your beauty sleep it deeply penetrates so you wake to radiant, healthy looking skin. Vitamin E also helps heal scars, lighten brown spots and recharges the complexion with a boost of moisture. Although this lush serum-oil concoction provides long-lasting hydration it does have a dewy finish that is discernible on the skin so I like to apply it early in the evening after cleansing so that it dries and soaks in before bed. The oil replenishes without causing breakouts and I love the handy medicine dropper! The nutritive formula also works wonders on dry cuticles and rough cracked heels, it retails for $28.00

The Vitamin E Eyes Cube is an anti-fatigue stick that revives and refreshes by diminishing the appearance of dark circles, puffiness and unsightly bags. It is a fabulous moisturizer for the sensitive skin around the eyes and it helps reduce the look of fine lines and crow’s feet for smoother, youthful looking skin. The formula is very creamy and melts in effortlessly. You can apply it directly from the tube or dab it on with a finger and I like to rub some on my eyelids to prevent dryness which improves the look of eye makeup. The handy little tube is ideal for travel and retails for $15.00.

If you want to kick things up a notch and really give mom the royal treatment there is also a limited edition Mother’s Day tote that includes the vitamin E body butter, bath puff, pink grapefruit shower gel, Eau de toilette, body scrub and the best selling vitamin E moisture cream- an $80.00 value for just $30.00! 

These products can be purchased at The Body Shop locations and Thebodyshop.ca

 *Press samples featured 

Saint Cosmetics Review

With 144 products for the lips, eyes and face plus quality formulas free of chemicals and loaded with antioxidants Saint Cosmetics is a brand to lookout for. This exciting new makeup infused with organic goodness is proudly made in Canada and the collection makes looking good and feeling sexy less irritating on delicate skin and safer for the environment.

I am all for supporting Canadian businesses especially when the brand donates a percentage of their proceeds to support women and children who have suffered abuse. Although most of the colors appear rather mellow with a great selection of everyday neutrals and warm trendy hues there is also a splash of vividness for edgy fashionistas who crave bold summer pigments.

The packaging is simple, chic and downright adorable! I don’t know if the word “Saint” with the little devil’s tail on the “S” refers to the combination of natural ingredients with sexy textures and vivacious color but the naughty and nice theme is quite playful.

As an avid user of color I had to go bold and bright so I selected the lipstick- Eternally Yours Fuchsia. Pink lipstick is almost as classic as red and although this shade may not appear tame enough for the timid it is an absolute stunner! The color can go from cute and sheer to intense pinkness in just a few swipes so whatever your mood you can achieve a beautiful petal pout.

This perky hue is deep and sultry yet bright and fun with a gorgeous satin sheen finish infused with light reflecting golden particles that create dimension and make lips appear luminous and full. This lipstick would look great on all skin tones and the wonderful lightweight texture glides on lusciously creamy and smooth without much shine. The ingredient list contains nourishing additives to quench dry lips including organic oils and fruit extracts and for $22.00 dollars this is definitely one of my new go-to summer colors.

Lay it out Lavender is a subtle purple shadow with a soft shimmer finish. The formula transfers well from brush to eyelids and although it doesn't quite build up to the grapey hue I expected when paired with primer it provides a neutral wash of color. Although the texture is on the drier side it blends and fades adequately and for those who want to keep it light and sheer this summer Saint Cosmetics may have a hue that grabs your attention.

You can check out more from the brand on their website by clicking- HERE

*Press samples featured

Jimmy Choo Eau de Parfum and Jimmy Choo Man

Jimmy Choo has been highly influential in the ever changing world of style, high fashion and modern trends. The brand sets the bar luxuriously high when it comes to artistic shoes and lavish fabrics and the designer has channelled the same aura of glamour, charm and sexuality into delightful fragrances for men and women.

Jimmy Choo Eau de Parfume has potent central notes of fresh tiger orchid fused with exotic base notes of toffee that blend sensually with Indonesian patchouli. The combination of juicy fruit and warm, woodiness adds complexity to embody female empowerment, refined confidence and mysterious desire.

The fragrance is packaged in an exotic pink snakeskin box that is synonymous with Jimmy Choo’s deluxe expression of the brand’s desirability. The round amber bottle is adorned with delicate light reflecting facets influenced by antiques and beautiful Murano glass; much like the pieces I saw while strolling the rustic streets of Venice.

This perfume is very concentrated and although it fades beautifully one spritz is usually all it takes. Instead of applying it directly to skin I spray it in the air around me or on my clothing which helps dilute the scent and lighten the potency. The notes are very classic and the aroma reminds me of the rich fragrances my mother use to wear years ago combined with fresh new scents that are popular today. The harmonious blend of antique and modern flare creates unique sophistication and elegance.

During the day I opt for lighter, fresher scents so this may be a bit too heavy for sunny summer days but for evenings out this fragrance is powerful and enthralling! The 60 ml bottle retails for $75.00 and 100 ml is $88.00.

Although I usually feature a wide array of scents for women since we love our perfumes let’s not forget our handsome counterparts! Jimmy Choo for Man embodies sensuality, rock n roll and expressions of confidence, masculinity and a rebellious sense of humour. The bottle resembles a sleek flask with minimal detailing and sharp clean lines.

Ladies, if you want your man to smell irresistible, powerful and swoon-worthy this cologne has it all! To me it epitomizes high, fashion, confidence and mature vivaciousness with an alluring muskiness. Jimmy Choo Man is fresh and crisp with a calming infusion of lavender and the subtle sweetness of mandarin essence, honeydew melon pineapple leaf and geranium. The base notes blend wonderfully with warm amber aromas and alluring patchouli.

My husband loves this strong, bold fragrance for both special occasion and everyday wear, the 50 ml bottle retails for $68.00 and 100 ml is $88.00.

Jimmy Choo Eau de Parfume makes a fantastic Mother's day gift and both fragrances can be purchased at Hudson’s Bay, Shoppers Drug Mart, Murale and Nordstrom. 

*Press samples featured

Klorane Hair Care Review

A few weeks ago I attended an event to test some hair products by Klorane- a brand that has been bridging the gap between science and nature for over 45 years! With a wide range of botanical products the company has been working to harvest some of the most nutritive plants and organic ingredients nature has to offer while maintaining conservation and respect for biodiversity and ecosystems.   

At the event I had the opportunity to get my hair done by Caroline Bufalini- celebrity hair stylist! Caroline was nice enough to take a break from Paris Fashion Week where Klorane products are frequently used to work on our hair and give us some useful backstage tips. She also composed an individual prescription for the products best suited for my hair type.

Since 1977 the dry shampoo has been one of the brand's most popular items. It was first used in hospitals where nurses needed a product that could cleanse the hair of bedridden patients when water was scarce. Klorane is now widely available and their collections include products for: color radiance, strengthening, oil absorbing, purifying, nourishing, dandruff, hair loss, volume, shine and vitality.

I have the dry shampoo with oat milk formulated with tinted mineral pigments that blend invisibly into dark hair. The shampoo has a fresh, perfume scent that smells great and helps boost volume, decrease the frequency of washing, texturize and extend the life of blow-outs. The moisturizing agents soften and protect while natural ingredients restore freshness and lightness. Infused with highly absorbent micronized powders the shampoo absorbs excess oil and the nozzle sends a sharp blast of spray that efficiently targets the roots. This is excellent to use between wash days and it leaves no build-up, stickiness or grease. I can definitely see why it has become a styling essential in the fashion and beauty industry.

My hair is naturally curly and very long which means it tends to be drier at the ends, oilier at the roots and exposed to heat styling when I prefer a straight, sleek look. Flat irons, curlers and environmental aggressors can lead to dryness, susceptibility to breakage and split ends. Since I like to deep condition my hair every week the Nourish and Repair line is right up my alley.

The repair mask with desert date from the tropical regions of Africa contains a high concentration of fatty acids and proteins that strengthens and restores the hair fiber. The thick, sooth consistency coats each strand and the rich formula regenerates and nourishes dry, damaged hair. Enriched with a botanical restructuring complex the cream deeply penetrates the follicle and fills in gaps between the keratin to help reinforce, hydrate and build resiliency. I leave the mask on for 30 mins and I use steam to help the ingredients absorb more efficiently. After use my hair feels light, soft and bouncy and the effects last for days after treatment! This deep conditioner is wonderful for anyone looking to moisturize and revive their tresses.  

The Klorane Leave-in Cream is described as “a true replenishing treatment that instantly beautifies the hair day after day” and I absolutely love it! Whether my style is curly or straight it softens, smoothes and nourishes without causing build-up or greasiness. You can apply the non-sticky formula repeatedly throughout the day without it weighing down your strands and it seals in moisture, helps repair damage, prevents split ends and adds shine and body. It can also be used on both damp and dry hair and it helps reduce fly-aways and frizz. After the drying winter and testing out new hair appliances this is exactly what I needed!

In Canada Klorane can be found at: Shoppers Drug Mart, Jean Coutu, London Drugs and Rexall. For a list of international retailers and to see more from the brand you can visit the website by clicking- HERE.

*Press samples featured 

Easy Lunch or Appetizer Idea: Delicious Zucchini Fritters

On another interesting food adventure inspired by my many foodie boards on Pinterest the girls and I had a dinner party this weekend and made delicious zucchini fritters followed by chicken enchilada and chocolate cake! We added a little zing to the recipe and made it our own but these golden goodies are too scrumptious and healthy not to share!

Here’s how to make them!

- Shred 5-6 zucchinis leaving a bit of skin on for color.

- Dry the shredded zucchini thoroughly using paper towels, cheese cloth or a dish towel.

The original recipe called for marinating the zucchini in salt for 10 mins but this wasn't really necessary nor did it draw out any water. You may also want to try a salad spinner to hurry things along.

-Place shredded zucchini in a bowl and toss with:

*2 cloves of garlic (minced)

* ¼ cup of all-purpose flour

* ¼ cup of grated cheese- we used Kraft shredded Tex Mex Mix and crumbled in some goat cheese but you can use Parmesan if you prefer.

* 1 egg (beaten)

* Black pepper and salt to taste

* Finely chopped cilantro and green onion, this created the zing I spoke of earlier.

Cooking Directions:

-Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet/ pan over medium heat.

- Scoop the batter into balls or hand-roll which was quicker.

-Add to pan and flatten balls using a spoon or spatula.

-Cook until golden brown on both sides and serve immediately. 

These taste great with a dollop of sour cream!

If you would like to try the original recipe you can find it by clicking HERE. 

NEW Dial Omega Moisture with Sea Berries

Dial is a popular, budget-friendly brand that has been a staple in many households for as long as I can remember. When I saw the new collection I had no idea what sea berries were but I had a feeling I’d want to smell like them! The omega rich fruit are known to contain 190 nutrients and the high lipid content strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier!

The indulgent body wash and all of the products in this range smells deliciously sweet and fresh with a hint of tangy goodness. I love lathering my bath puff in the rich, creamy gel and it effectively cleanses thirsty skin with a light, moisturizing formula. After showering my skin smells delectably fragrant and since it rinses clean there is so sticky residue left behind. The shower gel retails for about $6.99.

When it comes to hand soap the ones that foam into a light fluff or bubbles are my favorite! I’m not too lazy to lather but I appreciate half the work being done for me and this antibacterial hand wash terminates disgusting germs and abolishes dirt with a mild formula suitable for daily use. As an avid user of hand sanitizers there is something comforting about antibacterial formulas and anything that protects my family from bacteria has an honorary place on my bathroom counter. The soap retails for $3.99 and makes hands smell amazing!

If you are more of a bar soap kind of bather the nourishing sea berry formula is also available in a six pack for $6.99. The bars have the same hydrating fruit extracts and scrumptious aroma to leave you feeling refreshed and in the mood for fun summer socials.

Dial products are sold at drugstores including: Walmart and Shoppers Drug Mart.

*Press samples featured

Rodial Cosmetics Sculpting with Color Collection

Rodial Cosmetics is a brand that has been gaining worldwide popularity among celebrity A-listers and modern women. They have stylishly burst onto the beauty scene in over 35 countries and even made their way into Oscar goodie bags! The skincare products bridge the gap between science and nature while the sculpting collection is designed to enhance your features and take you from everyday gorgeous to diva glam!

The Instaglam Compact Deluxe Contouring Powder is designed to define and sculpt for sharper cheekbones, a slimmer nose and a structured jawbone. Using an angled brush for application the powder can be applied to enhance your features and create structure and dimension on the face.

The compact I have is 03 which is the only color available on the website and described as a “universal shade.”  I don’t think this hue will work for every skin tone because it looks more like a setting powder and on my complexion it appears nude. Due to the lack of pigmentation I would not classify this as a sculpting product especially for deeper skin and it takes a lot of layering to increase the light beige tint. I also have difficulty transferring enough powder onto a brush but with my finger I am able to build up enough color to create a natural shadow.

The texture is dry and not as smooth or blendable as I’d like for shaping and contouring but if you prefer a very subtle effect and you have lighter skin this could work. The great thing about the compact is that it does a good job at mattifying so you can use it to set cream bronzers or absorb excess oil and shine throughout the day without getting cakey. The powder retails for $75.00.

The Sculpt Effect Eye Shadow and Definer is soft and luxuriously creamy with a blendable mousse-like consistency. Although this product is also only available in one shade the earthy brown is very nice and I like the versatility of the pigment. You can apply the lush cream over the lids for a natural wash of color, in the crease for definition and on the lash lines for a smokey effect. You can even use the color on your brows as it smudges well to fill in sparse areas with a long-lasting, budge-proof formula.

To me this shade seems better suited for contouring than the powder compact but you do have to blend quickly as it sets fast. Because the cream is so multifunctional it is ideal for travel and makes a great addition to a professional kit. It can be applied with a brush or finger and it has decent water resistant properties. The Eye Sculpt retails for $34.00.

Some of my favorite products from this brand are the makeup brushes! They are expertly crafted with sturdy yet soft bristles and the quality is superb. The Eye Smudge Brush is excellent for patting on shadow, creating smokey looks and fading eye liner for a soft effect, it retails for $28.00.

The angled Sculpting Brush is the perfect size for contouring the face and the fine fibers blend seamlessly for professional results, it retails for $46.00.

For radiant summer skin the Instaglam Glow Complexion Enhancer is fabulous! Just a dab or two beautifully illuminates and makes skin look healthy and dewy with just the right amount of shimmer. I recommend using this product sparingly and twisting the tube very carefully as it tends to distribute too much.

The pen has a built in brush so you can sweep or dot the golden color onto the face and blend it out where light naturally touches the skin to brighten and revive dull complexions. You can even use it as shadow or as I like to do apply it around the inner corners of my eyes for a beautiful enhancement. The highlight retails for $36.00.

I am always on the lookout for great correctors and concealers so I was excited to try the Magic Pen. I don’t like the fact that the pencil has to be sharpened but the formula is designed to conceal imperfections with an easy to blend universal shade. The color is beige nude with a peachy undertone and the consistency is creamy and buildable for decent coverage. Although the shade is light it does a good job at highlighting under the eyes while disguising and fading dark circles and because it is a corrector it doesn't have to be an exact skin match.

You can blend the color using your fingers or a small brush and it layers nicely under foundation and other concealing products. You can also use the Magic Pen on the lids as an eye shadow base and it retails for $28.00.

Last but not least is the Glamolash Mascara XXL extreme black lash maximiser for amplified volume. The concentrated black formula intensifies lashes and contains conditioning ingredients plus collagen to thicken and shine. The brush looks rather traditional with no unique design traits but for everyday use it gets the job done and adds color and length. The mascara retails for $29.00.

Rodial Cosmetics can be found at Murale

*Press samples featured