Half Magic Beauty UK Launch at Sephora: Review, Swatches & Must-Have Picks

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Half Magic Beauty UK Launch at Sephora: Review, Swatches & Must-Have Picks

If you love bold, playful makeup with serious sparkle, the arrival of Half Magic Beauty in the UK is very good news. The brand has officially landed at Sephora UK, and it’s an exclusive launch worth getting excited about.

Known for its high-impact glitter, duo chrome finishes and unapologetically fun aesthetic, Half Magic sits firmly in the “makeup as self-expression” category. Think festival energy, party glam, and a little bit of chaos, in the best way.

I’ve been playing with a selection of products, so here’s everything you need to know, including my honest thoughts, swatches, and what I’d actually recommend buying.

Offers

Sephora UK Discount Code

Exclusive Sephora UK discount code for 15% off

What is Half Magic Beauty? (And Why Is Everyone Talking About It?)

Half Magic Beauty UK Launch at Sephora: Review, Swatches & Must-Have Picks
Half Magic Beauty UK Launch at Sephora

Half Magic Beauty was co-founded by Donni Davy, the Emmy-winning makeup artist behind the hit HBO series Euphoria (which I am ashamed to say, I have never seen!). I think maybe I’ll put it on my list.

However, if you’ve ever saved a makeup look from Euphoria, chances are it was her work that was all about taking makeup a more expressive, artistic space.

Half Magic was born directly from that movement. In fact, the brand was created off the back of the global beauty phenomenon sparked by Euphoria and its fans.

The name “Half Magic” refers to the idea that the products are only part of the story, the other half is you.

The Vibe: Playful, Sparkly, Slightly Chaotic (In a Good Way)

This is not a “no-makeup makeup” brand.

Half Magic is all about:

  • Glitter, shimmer and multidimensional finishes
  • Bold colour and duochrome textures
  • Experimental, expressive looks

It sits firmly in that party / festival / creative makeup space and with formulas that are designed to be usable and not intimidating.

I’ve tried a mix of eye, lip and glitter products. Here’s a breakdown of each one:

Glitterpuck Pressed Glitter (Shade: Glimmer Pop)*

This is such a standout if you love sparkle. The texture is what really surprised me. It has an almost wet-feel finish rather than a chunky glitter, which makes it much easier to apply and wear. It gives that glossy, editorial sparkle without feeling gritty.

Half Magic Beauty UK: Glitterpuck in Glimmer Pill
Half Magic Beauty UK: Glitterpuck in Glimmer Pill

The shade Glimmer Pop* is gorgeous and catches the light beautifully. I think this will look amazing on the eyes for nights out or parties. I haven’t tried this yet as I have just started wearing contact lenses and I am just being a bit cautious with anything that I don’t usually use around the eyes.

Half Magic Beauty UK: Glitterpuck in Glimmer Pill Swatch
Half Magic Beauty UK: Glitterpuck in Glimmer Pill Swatch

Eyeshadow Single (Shade: Blushing Lizard)*

This shade instantly gave me nostalgia. It really reminds me of MAC Club, which was actually my first ever MAC eyeshadow.

Half Magic Beauty UK: Single Eyeshadow in Blushing Lizard
Half Magic Beauty UK: Single Eyeshadow in Blushing Lizard
Half Magic Beauty UK: Single Eyeshadow in Blushing Lizard
Half Magic Beauty UK: Single Eyeshadow in Blushing Lizard

Blushing Lizard* has that same duo chrome shift, but I’d say it’s slightly softer and more wearable. It’s easier to throw on for everyday looks while still giving that multi-dimensional finish.

Half Magic Beauty UK: Single Eyeshadow in Blushing Lizard Swatch
Half Magic Beauty UK: Single Eyeshadow in Blushing Lizard Swatch

It’s one of those shades that looks like you’ve put in more effort than you actually have.

Glitterpill Eye Paint + Eyeliner (Shade: Microcosm)

This is a really fun product if you like experimenting. It works as both a liner and an eye paint, and the finish is super sparkly and reflective. Perfect for adding a pop of sparkle either as a graphic liner or layered over shadow.

Half Magic Beauty UK: Glitter Pill in Microcosm
Half Magic Beauty UK: Glitter Pill in Microcosm

Definitely more of a creative/occasion product than everyday, but that’s kind of the whole point of the brand.

Half Magic Beauty UK: Glitter Pill in Microcosm Swatch
Half Magic Beauty UK: Glitter Pill in Microcosm Swatch

Magic Drip Glitter Lip Gloss (Shade: Y2K Cherub)

If you like a glitter gloss, this is a nice comfortable formula. The glitter is fine and flattering rather than overwhelming.

Half Magic Beauty UK: Magic Drip Lip Gloss in Y2K Cherub
Half Magic Beauty UK: Magic Drip Lip Gloss in Y2K Cherub

That said, the shade Y2K Cherub is a little too pale for me personally. I think it would work better either layered over a deeper lip liner or on lighter lip tones.

Half Magic Beauty UK: Magic Drip Lip Gloss in Y2K Cherub Swatch
Half Magic Beauty UK: Magic Drip Lip Gloss in Y2K Cherub Swatch

Sculptitude Dual-Ended Lip Liner (Shade: Ur My Taupe / Badassery Parade)

This is my favourite product from everything I tried.

Half Magic Beauty UK: Sculptitude Lipliner in Ur My Taupe / Badassery Parade
Half Magic Beauty UK: Sculptitude Lipliner in Ur My Taupe / Badassery Parade

The Ur My Taupe* side is perfect for contouring the lips. It adds definition while still looking natural. It blends beautifully and is really easy to work with.

Half Magic Beauty UK: Sculptitude Lipliner in Ur My Taupe
Half Magic Beauty UK: Sculptitude Lipliner in Ur My Taupe

I’ve been wearing it with my REESON Glossing Balm in Dewy Rose, and it gives such a full, volumised lip look. I am wearing that combo in this video:

The formula is long-lasting and glides on really smoothly.

The only downside for me is that Badassery Parade is too dark for how I like to wear lip liner, so I won’t get much use out of that side.

Half Magic Beauty UK: Sculptitude Lipliner in Ur My Taupe / Badassery Parade Swatches
Half Magic Beauty UK: Sculptitude Lipliner in Ur My Taupe / Badassery Parade Swatches

However, the duo in Emo Rose / Prancing Queen* looks much more up my street. Glad to have this one though for Ur My Taupe and the stylo has gone straight in my makeup bag. Maybe I can use the other end on my eyes?

Is Half Magic Beauty Worth It?

If you love sparkle, shine and playful makeup, this brand is a lot of fun. It’s not about everyday minimal makeup, It’s about experimenting, going out, and embracing a more bold, glittery aesthetic.

My Top Picks:

  • Sculptitude Lip Liner (especially for lip contouring)
  • Glitterpuck Pressed Glitter in Glimmer Pop
  • Eyeshadow Single in Blushing Lizard

Final Thoughts

Overall, this is a really fun, expressive collection that feels perfect for parties, nights out, and anyone who loves a bit of sparkle. There are some genuinely lovely formulas here, especially the lip liner, and even the more experimental products feel wearable with a little creativity.

If you’ve been waiting for something a bit different to land in the UK beauty space, this is definitely one to check out.

Where to Buy Half Magic Beauty in the UK

Half Magic Beauty is available exclusively at Sephora UK. Don’t forget: Use code REALLYREESPH for 15% off

BROW AID The Brow Blueprint Review & Swatches

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BROW AID The Brow Blueprint Review & Swatches

If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that well-defined brows really do finish the face. I’m not someone who enjoys a complicated brow routine, and I’m certainly not confident enough to spend ages sculpting and measuring. But I do always prefer my makeup when I use something. In this review, I’m sharing my thoughts on BROW AID The Blueprint, along with swatches, before and after photos, and details on how it wears throughout the day.

What Is BROW AID The Brow Blueprint?

What Is BROW AID The Brow Blueprint?
What Is BROW AID The Brow Blueprint?

The Brow Blueprint is a dual-ended brow pen designed to create both soft fullness and realistic hair-like definition.

It features:

  • A multi-tip applicator for diffused, natural strokes
  • A dual-prong precision tip for finer, more defined hair strokes
  • A long-wearing, smudge-resistant formula

Essentially, it gives you two levels of brow enhancement in one pen.

Application & Ease of Use

The Multi-Tip Side – Soft Definition

brow aid the brow blueprint review 4
The Multi-Tip Side

This is the side I reach for first.

The multi-tip applicator allows you to gently paint through the brows. It gives soft strokes of colour without creating harsh blocks. You can be quite relaxed with it – even slightly rough – and it still looks natural.

It’s perfect for:

  • Filling sparse areas
  • Evening out tone
  • Adding subtle fullness

For anyone who doesn’t want a technical brow routine, this side alone could be enough.

The Dual-Prong Side – Added Dimension

brow aid the brow blueprint review 3
The Dual Prong Side

The precision dual-prong tip looks slightly intimidating, but it’s surprisingly forgiving.

It creates finer strokes that add dimension and structure. This is what gives that realistic, slightly more defined effect without tipping into “drawn on” territory.

Used together, the two ends create a layered, believable brow.

BROW AID The Brow Blueprint Review

First Impressions

I’m always slightly cautious with brow pens that promise precision. Some can feel overly wet or deposit too much pigment too quickly.

This one immediately felt different. The formula isn’t heavy, and it doesn’t overload the brow. It gives you time to build.

Before & After Results

BROW AID The Brow Blueprint Medium - Before & After
BROW AID The Brow Blueprint Medium – Before & After

The difference is immediate. The completed brow looks fuller, more structured and more polished – but still soft. It doesn’t look overly done. It simply looks like a better version of my natural brow.

Swatches & Formula Performance

BROW AID The Brow Blueprint Swatches - Medium
BROW AID The Brow Blueprint Swatches – Medium

The swatches clearly show the difference between the two applicators:

  • The multi-tip creates slightly broader, diffused strokes
  • The dual-prong creates finer, more precise lines

What impressed me most is the longevity.

The swatches lasted the entire day without fading or smudging. On the brows, it performs exactly the same way. Once it sets, it stays put.

This is genuinely long-wearing.

Longevity & Wear Test

Throughout the day, there was:

  • No smudging
  • No patchiness
  • No fading
  • No transfer

It holds shape and colour without feeling stiff or heavy.

Who Is It Best For?

This is ideal if you:

  • Prefer natural-looking brows
  • Don’t want a complicated routine
  • Like subtle dimension rather than bold structure
  • Want long-lasting wear

If you love ultra-sculpted, laminated brows, you may still want to pair it with a strong gel. But for everyday polish, this is excellent.

The Makeup I’m Wearing

For reference, in these photos I’m also wearing:

  • DCYPHER Glow Booster (read the review)
  • REESON Bronzing Balm*
  • REESON Highlighter Duo*
  • REESON Blush*
  • REESON Lid Elixir*

Everything is kept fresh and glowy, and the brows simply frame the face and complete the look.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is BROW AID The Brow Blueprint good for beginners?

Yes. It’s very forgiving. The pigment builds gradually and doesn’t flood the brow.

Does it look natural?

Very. The layered effect of soft fill plus fine strokes creates believable dimension.

Is it waterproof or smudge-proof?

It’s very long-wearing and resistant to smudging in my experience. It didn’t budge throughout the day.

Can you use just one end?

Absolutely. You can use the multi-tip for soft fullness or add the dual-prong for extra definition.

Final Verdict

Brow products often fall into two camps: too basic or too technical. BROW AID The Brow Blueprint sits comfortably in between.

It’s easy, forgiving, long-wearing and genuinely enhances the brows without overwhelming them. For someone who wants definition without complication, it works beautifully.

Where to buy it

BROW AID The Brow Blueprint is £19 and availale now via the link below:

MERIT Solo Shadow Review & Swatches – Matte & NEW Sheen Finishes

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MERIT Beauty Solo Shadow Review & Swatches

Update: November 2025: MERIT Beauty has just launched a new Sheen finish* in their Solo Shadow range! Scroll down for my review and swatches of all the new MERIT Solo Shadow Sheen shades along side all the original shades here.

MERIT’s Launch at Sephora UK

Merit Beauty’s most-loved products, from the Minimalist Stick to Flush Balm, are now available at Sephora. No more expensive shipping, and you can now try shades in-store before buying.

What is MERIT Solo Shadow?

MERIT Solo Shadow Shades
MERIT Solo Shadow Shades
  • Long-wearing, lightweight, cream-to-powder eyeshadow
  • Designed to be flattering on all ages and skin types
  • Doesn’t settle into fine lines
  • Safe for sensitive skin
  • Cream-to-powder texture stays put all day
  • Isn’t cakey or drying
  • Includes skincare ingredients
  • Designed to be worn alone
  • Includes 8 matte shades – 4 neutrals & 4 cool-toned statement shades
  • Now available in 6 sheen shades at MERIT* and Sephora*

Offers

Sephora UK Discount Code

Exclusive Sephora UK discount code for 20% off

Key Ingredients

Chamomile and calendula extracts – rich in antioxidants that help to soothe the eye area
Magnolia bark extract – helps to smooth the appearance of skin
Peptides – help to reduce the appearance of fine lines
Sunflower seed oil – helps to nourish skin

MERIT Beauty Solo Shadow Shades & Swatches

There are six shades in the new MERIT Solo Shadow Sheen collection:

  • Iris – soft plum
  • Glacé – soft rose
  • Matchbook – soft burgundy
  • Sartorial – bronze
  • Surrealism – gold
  • Palladium – warm silver
MERIT Solo Shadow Review & Swatches - NEW Sheen Finishes
MERIT Solo Shadow Review & Swatches – NEW Sheen Finishes

I have four of them here to show you – Iris, Glacé, Sartorial, Matchbook:

MERIT Solo Shadow Sheen Iris
MERIT Solo Shadow Sheen Iris
MERIT Solo Shadow Sheen Glace
MERIT Solo Shadow Sheen Glace
MERIT Solo Shadow Sheen Sartorial
MERIT Solo Shadow Sheen Sartorial
MERIT Solo Shadow Sheen Matchbook
MERIT Solo Shadow Sheen Matchbook

MERIT Solo Sheen Swatches

MERIT Solo Shadow Sheen Swatches
MERIT Solo Shadow Sheen Swatches

There are eight shades in the matte collection:

  • Brun – deep brown
  • Midcentury – warm brown
  • Midnight – classic navy
  • Nelson – soft grey
  • Social – soft mauve
  • Studio – cool taupe
  • Vachetta – warm beige
  • Viper – warm green
Solo Shadow in Brun
Solo Shadow in Brun
Solo Shadow in Midcentury
Solo Shadow in Midcentury
Solo Shadow in Midnight
Solo Shadow in Midnight
Solo Shadow in Nelson
Solo Shadow in Nelson
Solo Shadow in Social
Solo Shadow in Social
Solo Shadow in Studio
Solo Shadow in Studio
Solo Shadow in Vachetta
Solo Shadow in Vachetta
Solo Shadow in Viper
Solo Shadow in Viper

MERIT Solo Matte Swatches

Brun, Midcentury, Midnight, Nelson, Social, Studio, Vachetta, Viper:

MERIT Solo Shadow Matte Swatches
MERIT Solo Shadow Matte Swatches

How to Apply It

These shadows are pretty easy to work with. They are nicely pigmented so start with a small amount and build and blend.

You can use your finger to apply these, however, I used the new MERIT Brush No. 2. This was enough product to cover both lids:

MERIT Beauty No. 2 Brush

The new Brush No. 2. uses soft vegan bristles and has one fluffy end and one finer, more tapered end for more precise application along the lash line.

My Review of MERIT Solo Shadows Sheen & Matte

Check out this reel featuring the new Sheen shades with swatches of Iris, Glace, Sartorial and Matchbook, and also application of Matchbook:

MERIT Beauty Solo Shadow in Midcentury
MERIT Beauty Solo Shadow in Midcentury

What I love about these shadows is that they give the lids a lovely smooth look and they are easy to apply, blend and build.

They are genuinely long wearing and crease-proof. In fact, when I did the swatches, I had to use an oil cleanser to remove the colours from my arm because they had set down so well.

In spite of the long wear and super smooth finish they offer, they feel very light on the eyelids, and you can apply them and forget about them.

I have fairly oily eyelids, so shadows tend to crease on me even if they are crease resistant, like the new Rare Beauty Eyeshadow Sticks. However, the MERIT Beauty Solo shadows wear so beautifully.

I am really loving the new MERIT Solo Shadow Sheen shades, and the finish is super flattering. I think even if you are slightly scared of shimmers, these will work really well for you.

I do find with the Mattes that the formula does tend to dry out a touch over time, however, I haven’t had the Sheens long enough to be able to comment on how well they last. I do love their performance of ease of application, and I think they will all work beautifully for the festive season.

Where to Buy Merit Beauty in the UK

The MERIT Beauty Sephora UK launch means you can shop Merit Beauty at:

  • Sephora UK -online & in stores
  • MERIT website

If you want their gorgeous makeup bags which come as a free gift with the first purchase, make sure you shop from MERIT directly.

Keep me informed on this and all MERIT products

  • Sign up here for a launch notification

  • Sign up here for a launch notification

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Kosas Soulgazer Mascara Review – Before & After Photos, Wear Test & Results *AD

Kosas Soulgazer Mascara Review – Before & After Photos, Wear Test & Results *AD

*Links marked with asterisks are affiliate links, these help Ree with running costs of the blog

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Kosas Soulgazer Mascara Review - Before & After Photos, Wear Test & Results

When I first heard about the launch of Kosas Soulgazer Mascara, I knew it would be exciting. Kosas have such a knack for marrying makeup with skincare, and this one is no exception. It’s not just a mascara. It’s a lengthening, lifting formula with a built-in lash-boosting peptide serum. I have been testing it out. Here’s everything you need to know.

What is Kosas Soulgazer Mascara?

What is Kosas Soulgazer Mascara?
What is Kosas Soulgazer Mascara?

The Kosas Soulgazer Mascara is a lengthening mascara and lash-boosting peptide serum in one:

  • Weightless formula that builds easily without clumping
  • Glides on effortlessly for a fluttery look
  • Powered by a lash-boosting peptide serum
  • Delivers visibly longer, fuller lashes in 6–8 weeks
  • Uses a unique curvilinear moulded brush
  • The brush grips every lash to lengthen, lift and define
  • Long-wearing, smudge-proof, won’t flake all day

Key Ingredient

Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17

Helps create a prime environment for keratin to support hair’s natural growth cycle

Supports visibly longer, fuller lashes in 6–8 weeks

Kosas Soulgazer Mascara: How to use it & Before & After Video

Check out my reel to see how I use it.

I have a few different photos to show you, as the before and afters get better the more you use this mascara.

Here’s my before photo from the first time I used this mascara:

Kosas Soulgazer Mascara - Before Photo (1st time use)
Kosas Soulgazer Mascara – Before Photo (1st time use)

And here’s one very light coat the first time I used it:

Kosas Soulgazer Mascara - After Photo (1 coat, first use)
Kosas Soulgazer Mascara – After Photo (1 coat, first use)

Here’s one very light coat a few weeks later:

Kosas Soulgazer Mascara - After Photo (1 coat, after a few weeks)
Kosas Soulgazer Mascara – After Photo (1 coat, after a few weeks)

Here’s 2 coats from the same time, a few weeks later:

Kosas Soulgazer Mascara - After Photo (2 coats, after a few weeks)
Kosas Soulgazer Mascara – After Photo (2 coats, after a few weeks)
Kosas Soulgazer Mascara - After Photo (2 coats, after a few weeks)
Kosas Soulgazer Mascara – After Photo (2 coats, after a few weeks)

As you can see, the before and afters get more impressive the longer I am using it.

My Review of Kosas Soulgazer Mascara

Kosas Soulgazer Mascara Brush - grabs every lash
Kosas Soulgazer Mascara Brush – grabs every lash

I have to say, I absolutely love this mascara. Not only is it easy to use, but I also genuinely feel that it is improving the appearance of my lashes over time.

It delivers:

  • Instant length and lift for fluttery, defined lashes
  • Peptides that actually strengthen and encourage lash growth over time
  • A curved brush that hugs every lash for maximum impact
  • Buildable, clump-free wear that lasts all day

Packaging & Brush

Kosas Soulgazer Mascara Brush
Kosas Soulgazer Mascara Brush

The tube is chic and sleek, and very Kosas. But the star here is the curvilinear brush. It has that perfect curve that grips every lash, even those tricky inner corners, and pushes them up for a wide-eyed, lifted effect.

I can actually feel it grabbing the lashes as I apply, which makes for great definition without endless wiggling.

It’s also great for getting those bottom lashes without making a mess.

Kosas Soulgazer Mascara Brush - precise enough for bottom lashes
Kosas Soulgazer Mascara Brush – precise enough for bottom lashes

Buildable Formula

I tested Soulgazer with one and two coats to see how buildable it really is and found that you can build length and volume without things getting clumpy.

The fact it layers so easily without going spidery is honestly impressive.

Formula & Skincare Benefits

Kosas Soulgazer Mascara stands out to me because it doubles as lash care:

  • Peptides to help lashes look longer and stronger over time
  • Long-wearing formula that doesn’t smudge or flake and lashes stay lifted and pretty all day
  • Glides on smoothly and builds effortlessly
  • Easy removal – melts off without tugging

Wear Test & Performance

I have been wearing Soulgazer most days (when I have been wearing makeup) for a few weeks. Each time, my lashes have stayed curled and fluttery, the mascara hasn’t smudged or flaked, and my eyes look wide awake. I don’t use lash curlers, but I genuinely don’t think I need one anyway with this formula.

Does it work as a lash serum?

  • Kosas have done clinical trials that and after 8 weeks, 100% of subjects saw on bare lashes:
  • +97% increase in lash volume
  • +60% increase in lash length

As I said above, I have been using this whenever I wear makeup for a few weeks (not every single day), and I definitely think that my lashes look longer and fuller. If you check out the before and after photos above, I think you will be able to notice this as time goes on.

I think that this before photo a few weeks later, show longer lashes than my original before photo above:

Kosas Soulgazer Mascara - Before Photo (after a few weeks)
Kosas Soulgazer Mascara – Before Photo (after a few weeks)
Kosas Soulgazer Mascara - After Photo (after a few weeks)
Kosas Soulgazer Mascara – After Photo (after a few weeks)

Verdict: Is Kosas Soulgazer Mascara Worth It?

I think you can probably guess what I am going to say here. I absolutely think this mascara is worth the price tag. Its performance purely as a mascara is excellent, and the fact that I have also notice improvement to my lashes over time means it really does double as a lash growth serum too. It’s a two for one situation!

If you want a mascara that gives pretty, fluttery lashes, amazing curl without curlers, long-lasting wear, and lash care benefits, Soulgazer delivers.

Final Thoughts

Kosas Soulgazer Mascara gives fluttery, lifted, wide-eyed lashes with a curl that actually lasts. It’s long-wearing, doesn’t flake, and adds subtle drama without bulk. I am looking forward to seeing what it can do in a few more weeks!!

FAQs for Kosas Soulgazer Mascara

Is Kosas Soulgazer Mascara suitable for sensitive eyes?

Yes! The formula is gentle, fragrance-free, and safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

Can you build up the mascara without clumping?

Absolutely! Koas Soulgazer Mascara is super buildable. One coat gives fluttery lashes, while 2 or 3 coats add drama without spidery clumps.

Does it really work as a lash serum?

Yes! Infused with peptides, this mascara helps lashes look stronger, longer, and fuller over time. You’re basically doing your lash care while wearing mascara.

Do I need a lash curler to get a curl?

Not at all which is exciting to me as I NEVER use lash curlers (they scare me!) The curved brush lifts and curls lashes beautifully on its own, and the curl lasts all day.

Does it smudge or flake?

I haven’t noticed any smudging or flaking and it’s really long-wearing.

How many coats are recommended?

One coat for a natural fluttery look, two coats for more drama, and three coats for full glam without clumping.

Is the formula waterproof?

The formula isn’t waterproof, but it has been clinically tested to be longwearing and smudge resistant.

Is this a lengthening, volumising mascara or both?

This mascara lengthens, lifts and separates with defined volume. The formula is powered by Myristoyl Pentapeptide-17, a five amino acid peptide that is clinically proven to support stronger, healthier, and longer lashes. 

Where to buy it

The Kosas Soulgazer Mascara is £28 and available now via the link below:

Check out all my Kosas Reviews here.

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Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Stick Review & Swatches

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Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Stick Review & Swatches

I have recently come across the Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Stick correctors and was interested to give them a go. They are a skincare-makeup hybrid and I have a little side-by-side comparison on my skin tone of two of the shades. Here’s what you need to know.

What is Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Stick?

What are Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Sticks?
What are Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Sticks?

The Banana Bright Vitamin CC Stick is part of Ole Henriksen’s brightening makeup-skincare hybrid lineup, designed to colour-correct, brighten, and prep the under-eye area for concealer. It promises skincare benefits alongside instant colour correction.

Key points from the brand:

  • Infused with two forms of vitamin C and banana powder-inspired pigments
  • Designed to brighten and hydrate the delicate eye area
  • Promotes a brighter, more awake look
  • Provides a smooth base for concealer
  • Helps to smooth and blur fine lines and wrinkles
  • Available in four shades

Key Ingredients

Two Forms of Enhanced Vitamin C (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid and Tetrahexldecyl Ascorbate) – to brighten and fade the look of dark circles, and provide antioxidant protection

Banana Powder-Inspired Pigments – light-reflecting mineral pigments to instantly illuminate your complexion

Caffeine – to energizes & invigorate skin

My Review of Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Stick

My Review of What are Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Sticks in Banana & Guava
My Review of What are Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Sticks in Banana & Guava

I have only just started trying these out, and I have to say, I’m not completely sure what I think! So I wanted to share my thoughts so far, and I will update when I have used them more.

I think my main issue is that they are not what I was expecting them to be like, which has kind of stopped me in my tracks for the review process. Not sure if that makes sense, but I’ll tell you what I think so far.

Formula & Texture

The first thing I noticed is the texture. It’s creamy and balmy with a smooth glide that feels like skincare. It isn’t sticky or heavy, and it swipes onto the skin really easily.

That said, it’s a lot sheerer than I expected which is where I have become confused, as I was expecting there to be more instant opaque coverage. Once blended, it almost melts away into nothing. It’s very much a sheer pigment that I found doesn’t really provide coverage on its own.

If you’re after a one-step corrector-and-concealer replacement, this isn’t it. But as a lightweight layer that might make concealer apply more smoothly, it has potential. Under my Kulfi concealer, the base felt nicely hydrated. But since I already love how that concealer looks, I couldn’t tell if it truly boosted the result.

Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Stick Swatches

Here are my swatches of the Banana and Guava shades:

Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Stick Swatches in Banana & Guava
Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Stick Swatches in Banana & Guava

Shade Comparison on My Skin Tone

I tested both shades under my eyes to see which works best for me. This is the before photo:

Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Stick Before Photo
Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Stick Before Photo

Here are both shades directly applied:

Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Stick applied in Banana & Guava
Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Stick applied in Banana & Guava

I’ll be honest, because they are quite sheer, I am not sure which one is better for me. Probably Guava?

Here they both are blended out:

Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Stick After Photo
Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Stick After Photo

I tested it under my Kulfi concealer (review and swatches here), and while it did create a nicely hydrated base, I honestly couldn’t tell if it made much of a difference, mostly because I already love how that concealer performs on its own.

On its own, the coverage of the Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Stick isn’t enough to replace concealer, but it does feel lovely on the skin and brings some nice skincare benefits. I just wish it delivered a bit more on the makeup front.

If you’re a fan of the original Banana Bright Eye Crème and want something in a makeup format, it’s worth a try. Just know that it’s sheer, and for me, the real star of the show is still my concealer.

Where to buy it

The Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Vitamin CC Stick is £26 and available now via the links below. If you are shopping at Sephora, you can use my code REALLYREESPH for 20% off.

If you are looking for something more pigmented, check out my blog post on the Charlotte Tilbury Magic Vanish Colour Corrector, which I think is one of Tilbury’s most underrated products.

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