Comments Off on Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Contour Review & Swatches
*Links marked with asterisks are affiliate links, these help Ree with running costs of the blog
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2025 seems to be shaping up to be the year of the contour already and the latest brand to chime in is the gorgeous brand from Selena Gomez, Rare. I have all the shades of the new Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Contour here to show you. If you like the look of it, don’t hang around as it’s selling fast!
What is Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Contour?
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Contour packaging
Weightless, easy-to-blend liquid contour
Designed to define and enhance your favourite feature
Airy, blendable texture
Buildable, streak-free formula
Blends evenly and seamlessly
Can be layered under or over makeup
Uses long-lasting fade-resistant pigments for all-day wear
There are 7 shadow-like shades created for a range of skin tones:
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Contour Shades
Gentle – fair (cool taupe)
Mellow – light (cool brown)
Solace – medium (cool taupe)
Serene – medium (brown)
Tranquil – medium deep (cool brown)
Peaceful – deep (neutral brown)
Sublime – deep (cool brown)
Here are the swatches:
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Contour Swatches
How to use it
Dot it or swipe it on using the applicator to any areas of the face that you want to create shadow (hollows of your cheeks, nose, forehead, jawline, and chin).
I would recommend dotting as it is better to build up the product rather than applying more than you need. You can then use a fluffy brush or makeup sponge to blend it out.
I think this product is going to go down really well and it is already selling fast! The texture is smooth and silky and slighter sheerer than the Rare Beauty blushes that are so pigmented that you have to be very careful not to over-apply.
The Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Contour also has more play time than the blush formula, so you don’t have to be in a mad rush to blend it out. Once dried down though, the colour is very long lasting and doesn’t budge, smudge or move.
I think it is best to apply a small amount and blend, and then build it up in layers if you require a more intense effect. It is easy to add more, but very hard to take it away.
In terms of shades, I think I can use both Gentle and Mellow. I am still deciding which one looks better out of the two. I’ll keep you updated on that!
If you want to check out some other contour products, Charlotte Tilbury just added to their shade range. Read: Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Contour Wand Shades & Swatches – New for 2025
Where to buy it
The Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Contour is £27 for 14.88ml and it’s available and selling fast via the links below:
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How’s your January going so far? Good , I hope! We’re almost at the finish line!
Today I have a shortlist of some of my favorite products I discovered & used last year. 2024 was my year of healthy hair, so I spent time & effort researching & trying new products.
1. Briogeo don’t despair repair deep conditioning mask- when I thought to do this post, this was the 1st product that popped up in my head! I love this product so much that I kinda overused it and it broke off my hair lol. It is a protein rich mask so just be mindful how many times you use it. I love this mask because it’s detangling but helps to reduce shedding, strengthens and conditions the hair! If you find your hair just feels limp & it’s shedding a lot don’t despair! try this mask! My advice will be to balance this mask with a moisture treatment too, so use once every 2 weeks/monthly depending on your hair needs. It broke my hair because I was using it right after getting a texture release and as that is amino acid based, it was too much protein on my hair and too much protein causes hair to be brittle & easier to break off. This is not the fault of the product but mine which is why I still love this product and will recommend it.
2. Affirm Light Creme hair dress- I was first introduced to this product when I went to Elite hair lounge in Feb 2024. I loved how light it felt on my hair. Fast forward to May, I did my texture release and the stylist recommended the same product to use as my Keracare buttercream would be too heavy. I got it and fell in love with it. Its lightweight as the name suggests and it does well to add moisture to the hair. It’s a nice ‘hair cream’ I used during the week to add moisture.
3. Tgin honey miracle conditioner- this product went viral in the natural hair community when it first arrived but I never got to try it because it was never available in the UK. Last year as I was looking for moisture deep conditioners, the girlies were still raving about the conditioner so I decided to finally try it. This deep conditioner is amazing and I will be writing up a full review soon
4. Olapex 4c shampoo- everyone knows how I feel about Olapex by now, and this product? This clarifying shampoo is no different! It leaves the hair clean but not stripped! I use this on a monthly basis to clarify and chelate my hair. It works for 4c hair. If you want to read my full review of all the Olapex products I have used, check it out here
5. African pride moisture miracle pre poo- another viral product in the natural hair community and it deserves all the hype & more! if you’re looking for a moisture pre poo treatment this is it! I’ve been through 2 or 3 tubs of this! My full review is here
6. Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair!™Moisture + Damage Defense Leave-In Treatment– This one came in the gift set with the don’t despair deep conditioner and I love it just as much. It really works to soften the hair. I find that some leave ins just leave the hair ‘wet’ but don’t really soften it. This doesn’t do that.
These have been my top 6 products of last year and I will/ have repurchase/d everyone of these again. More products worthy of a mention is the Paul Mitchell skinny serum which came recommended by my stylist. I don’t know how but this helps to dry my hair faster! and it doesn’t weigh the hair down or cause it to revert. You literally need a tiny bit. If you use a lot like I did when I started using it, you will feel the difference after the hair is dry. it feels a bit sticky?( lack of a better word). Another product I have to mention is the Cantu protective styling hair freshener. I call this hair perfume because it smells absolutely amazing. We all know how braids can get a bit musty after some time, get this! Just get this if you want amazing smelling hair.
That’s all folks! This year I’m focusing more on length retention but the search for better products/brands is still ongoing. I learnt about many brands last year, I’m just patiently waiting to finish up my batch before getting new products.
*Links marked with asterisks are affiliate links, these help Ree with running costs of the blog
What to buy
Medik8 is such a well respected and renowned skincare brand and for very good reason. It is certainly very popular among those I speak to on my social media platforms and also skincare professionals, and so I wanted to run you through my top product picks and share my Medik8 review.
Who are Medik8?
Medik8 Review: My Top Picks -Crystal Retinal
Leaders in Anti-Ageing
Medik8 are leaders in anti-ageing and are renowned by both professionals and customers for being experts in Vitamin A, which includes Retinol and Retinal (Retinaldehyde).
A couple of year s ago, I started a Beauty Facebook group, and one of the membership questions asks ‘What is your favourite skincare product right now?’. So many people answered Medik8 Crystal Retinal. It just kept coming up again and again!
Medik8 is a UK based company with its own labs and in-house research team. It was founded by scientist Elliot Isaacs, and everything began in a little lab at his dad’s pharmacy. Soon joined by brother Daniel, the cosmeceutical brand grew from there, based on its CSA philosophy – ‘vitamin C plus sunscreen by day, and vitamin A by night’.
What is Medik8 CSA?
So Medik8 say that the basics of any good skincare routine should be vitamin C, Sunscreen and vitamin A (retinol). I absolutely adore this simple approach to skincare, and in a world of seriously over-complicated routines and product overload, it’s a brilliant way to make sure your skin is getting what it needs.
Why do I love Medik8?
I love Medik8’s science-led approach to skincare and how easy it is to navigate the range of products.
I have always been obsessed with how effective the products are very quickly after you start using them. My first obsession was Medik8’s Press & Glow which is a daily exfoliating tonic with gentle PHAs, recommended to me by a friend a few years back. More on that later.
All the products are super effective and results-driven, but designed to work with the skin and not against it. I have never experienced any irritation or sensitivity with any of the products I’ve used. I have tried to include all of these in this Medik8 review.
Offers
Space NK £20 off every £100 Spend – Plus Tiered Options
The Space NK £20 off every £100 Spend promotion is live! Details on lower spend thresholds here too.
Medik8 Skincare Latest Launch for 2025
My Top Pick: Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP Review
Medik8 Review: My Top Picks – Liquid Peptides Advanced MP
When Medik8 told me they were launching a new peptide serum that is clinically proven to visibly diminish expression lines in just 10 minutes, I was shocked. They’re not the kind of brand to make wild claims, so I had to put it to the test. At 50, I know the importance of boosting collagen, so I felt like this product was for me.
First Impressions – Does It Really Work in 10 Minutes?
The first time I tried this serum, I was fixated on that 10-minute promise. So, I took a photo of my bare skin before applying it, set a timer, and then snapped another shot 10 minutes later. Honestly? I was shocked at how much my fine lines appeared softened. It actually works.
Medik8 Review: Liquid Peptides Advanced MP Before & After 10 Minutes
What’s Inside Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP?
This serum features a world-first biotechnology. The formula has a 30% peptide comlex with 13 different peptides, plus Dual MiniProtein Technology which is a completely new approach to tackling wrinkles at their root:
Expression Line MiniProtein – helps relax and smooth dynamic expression lines for visibly reduced wrinkle depth.
Growth Factor MiniProtein – supports collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid levels over time for smoother, firmer-looking skin.
How to Use Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP
This is an easy-to-use, water-based serum, perfect for layering into your skincare routine.
Use morning and evening after cleansing
Massage across the face, neck, and décolletage
Allow it to absorb before applying moisturiser and SPF
Honestly? I didn’t think Medik8 could improve on their original Liquid Peptides, but somehow, they’ve done it. This is one of the most exciting peptide serums I’ve tried in a long time. If you’re serious about targeting fine lines and wrinkles, this is one to check out.
Medik8 Review – My Other Favourites
There are quite a few brilliant MediK8 products that I have a very soft spot for that I also wanted to share.
Medik8 Liquid Peptides Review
Medik8 Review: My Top Picks – Liquid Peptides
Liquid Peptides from Medik8 is a true hero product for anyone dealing with the early signs of ageing-related issues.
Peptides in skincare are key when it comes to helping boost collagen production and Medik8 Liquid Peptides has a 30% Peptide formula with a very clever delivery system.
Copper Peptides are incredible for skin strength and health, and this product contains ‘drone-targeted Copper Peptide’ which has sophisticated technology designed to direct the peptide to the skin’s fibroblast cells. Those fibroblast cells are the ones responsible for collagen production. This ensures that the ingredients are optimised.
The formula also uses Matrixyl 3000 which is one of the most powerful collagen boosting peptides. Plus Carnosine to prevent wrinkle formation, Expression Line Peptide, Hyaluronic Acid and Prebiotics.
It’s a very hard working formula, and if you are concerned with lack of firmness, lines and wrinkles, this will be a brilliant addition to your skincare regime. You can use it after Press & Glow and before or after Crystal Retinal at night, so fits in easily with the brand’s CSA approach (see above).
I love the Medik8 Liquid Peptides, first off because it is so instantly hydrating and plumping, so you see an instant smoothness to the skin.
The clever delivery system means that all those powerful peptides go right where they need to and allow them to really work on boosting collagen and elastin to smooth away wrinkles. This isn’t always the case with peptides as they are large molecules which don’t easily penetrate the layers of the skin.
Liquid Peptides is such a great one to add into your existing routine to super-boost the skin. It’s the one to pick to address the early signs of ageing. If you’re wrinkles are deeper, go for the Advanced MP version featured above.
Medik8 Daily Radiance Vitamin C SPF 30 Review
Medik8 Review: My Top Picks – Daily Radiance Vitamin C
I love this one because it’s such a great Do-It-All product. It is super moisturising, has a lovely dose of brightening Vitamin C, plus that all important SPF30 to give you great antioxidant and UV protection.
The Vitamin C in here is the highly stable Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate which is a super-antioxidant and also brilliant at brightening the skin. Vitamin E also boosts the antioxidant protection.
Medik8 Review: My Top Picks – Daily Radiance Vitamin C
I love the rich texture which is super moisturising and is also loaded with Hyaluronic Acid to keep the skin hydrated throughout the day. Plus it gives a gorgeous glow.
If you’re looking for a sunscreen product with higher protection, I highly recommend the Advanced Day Ultimate Protect SPF50*.
Medik8 Crystal Retinal Review
Crystal Retinal is Medik8’s most famous product, so it absolutely has to be in my Medik8 review.
It is an ultra potent form of Vitamin A that’s designed as a whole system to both introduce your skin to retinoids and then increase levels to ensure that performance never plateaus and always progresses.
Medik8 Review: My Top Picks -Crystal Retinal
I love using Crystal Retinal 3 which is a starter strength, however, I find this very effective as I test a lot of different skincare products and need something that delivers the gentlest action whilst still being effective.
Number 1 is an even more gentle formula designed for those with very sensitive skin, and then there’s 6, 10 and 20, for those advanced Vitamin A users looking to up the ante on their results. 20 is a clinic-only formula and needs a professional consultation before it can be used.
The retinaldehyde in the formula is proven to work approximately 11 times faster than retinol, however, this powerful ingredient is buffered with Glycerin (one of my all-time favourite humectants), Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin E to ensure skin is never unnecessarily irritated or compromised.
It is one of those products that once you start using, you most likely won’t want to stop! It works great with my other favourite Liquid Peptides and is amazing for mature skin types.
You might be interested to know that Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 features in the Space NK Advent Calendar.
Medik8 Press & Glow Review
Again, because I test a lot of skincare products, I try to make sure that any acid toners I am using regularly are super gentle and kind to the skin. Over exfoliation is one of the worst things you can do when it come to the skin barrier. Too much exfoliation leads to a damaged barrier and all your other skincare products quickly become ineffective once that happens.
Medik8 Review: My Top Picks – Press & Glow
Press & Glow is formulated with PHAs (polyhydroxy acids) which are the gentlest type of acid. It removes dead skin cells to gently refine the texture and it also has Aloe to hydrate and Acai Extract to prevent inflammation.
The best part is that it is gentle enough to be used with my Crystal Retinal, so there’s no need to avoid Vitamin A.
Medik8 Clarity Peptides Review
Clarity Peptides is a newer discovery for me and Medik8 hail it as the one you need if you want to achieve glass skin.
Medik8 Review: My Top Picks – Clarity Peptides
It’s packed with a 10% concentration of Niacinamide which is great for calming and soothing the skin, and tackles redness and blemishes. It’s also great for hyperpigmentation, so definitely one to use if you want to improve the evenness of your skin.
What I find really exciting about this, and it really does work, is that the formula contains a high tech ingredient called a Crystalide peptide which actually makes skin more reflective to give that glass skin effect. This is boosted with a lovely dose of Hyaluronic Acid.
Medik8 Review: My Top Picks – Clarity Peptides
Also, if you suffer with any blemishes, there’s Zinc PCA in the formula that will keep bacteria in check.
Is Medik8 Worth it?
Considering that Medik8 is all about science-backed formulations and comes so highly recommended by skin experts everywhere, it is actually extremely well priced.
The brand is very transparent when it comes to ingredients and their concentration levels which makes it easy to see that you are paying for high quality ingredients, and sophisticated formulations, rather than fancy packaging or marketing.
Their suggested routines are always kept really simple – CSA – and there’s no product pushing and complicated regimes. You could really keep it as simple as Vitamin C and SPF for day, and your Vitamin A at night.
The other products they offer are all designed to fit nicely around this simple routine, or in fact could slot into any routine, so there’s no pressure to switch up all your skincare products.
Medik8 is most certainly a brand with a conscience and one that you can put your trust in to find the ideal solutions for your skin concerns. I have always noticed how responsive and willing to help they are online which is incredibly reassuring when you are parting with your hard-earned cash.
What do peptides do for your skin?
Peptides are amino acids that acts as messengers to your skin’s vital functions. They tell the skin to produce more collagen and elastin and basically encourage it to act younger.
What is retinal?
Retinal is also known as retinaldehyde and it is proven to be 11 times more effective at dealing with fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and uneven skin texture than classic Retinol. Another benefit is that Retinal also has blemish-fighting ability thanks to its antibacterial qualities.
What is the difference between retinol and retinal?
Retinaldehyde vs retinol is a topic that comes up a lot. They are both derivatives of Vitamin A, and for Vitamin A to be effective on the skin, it needs to reach a point where it becomes retinoic acid.
The Vitamin A journey goes like this: retinyl esters, then retinol, then retinaldehyde, and then retinoic acid. So retinal has only one conversion step, whereas retinol has two, meaning that more of retinal’s benefits are delivered into the skin.
Which Medik8 crystal retinal should I start with?
If you are new to Vitamin A, Crystal Retinal 3 is the best place to start, unless you have extremely sensitive skin. If this is the case, start with Crystal Retinal 1.
If you are a more experienced Vitamin A user wishing to see more results, then Crystal Retinal 6 would be the one. This is also the one to go to if you are looking to step up from 3.
Crystal Retinal 10 is for those moving up from No 6, looking to step up the results, and is for advanced Vitamin A users.
I also think, if you are happy with the results you are achieving, there is no pressure to keep going up and you can most certainly stay where you are. As I said, I am very happy with what Crystal Retinal 3 does for my skin.
Every retinal product from Medik8 is designed to be gentle as it is crystal encapsulated and time-released, so skin is never over-loaded.
Is Medik8 vegan and sustainable?
Every Medik8 product is vegan friendly. In terms of packaging, there are no plastic inserts and all outer packaging is made from 100% recycled paper
Where to buy Medik8
You can shop the full range of products at Medik8.com*.
*Links marked with asterisks are affiliate links, these help Ree with running costs of the blog
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I am a big fan of Sol de Janeiro body products and I love an oil, so I was delighted to test out the new Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti-Body Oil. Here’s what you need to know.
What is Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti-Body Oil?
Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti-Body Oil (with separate pump)
New body oil designed to nourish, hydrate and enhance visible elasticity
Powered by a botanical blend of cacay oil, vegan collagen & squalane
Formulated with a fluid-like consistency
Fast-absorbing and non-sticky texture
Infused with the floral-musky Cheirosa 68 fragrance
Offers
Space NK £20 off every £100 Spend – Plus Tiered Options
The Space NK £20 off every £100 Spend promotion is live! Details on lower spend thresholds here too.
Key Ingredients
Cacay Oil – nourishing plant-based alternative to retinol
Vegan Collagen – vegetable-derived collagen to help visibly smooth the skin
Squalane – natural moisturising agent and antioxidant
How to use it
Sol de Janeiro recommend using this morning and night, however, I have been using it once a day after showering while my skin is still slightly damp. They suggest applying in circular motions.
The Scent Notes
Top Notes – Pink Dragonfruit, Lychee Essence Heart Notes – Brazilian Jasmine, Ocean Air, Hibiscus Base Notes – Sheer Vanilla, Sun Musk
My Review
My Review of Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti-Body Oil
If you’re like me, you love a product that not only makes your skin feel amazing but also smell great. And the Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor scent is the Cheirosa ’68 fragrance which is super pretty.
First Impressions
Let’s start with the packaging which I really like. The pink colour is super pretty, I always love a pump, and the glass bottle has a rubber base so it makes it much more bathroom tile friendly. Hopefully it will bounce if I drop it rather than smash! Practical luxury right there!
Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti-Body Oil with rubber base
What It Does
The Beija Flor Elasti-Body Oil is designed to deeply hydrate, firm, and improve elasticity. It uses a retinol alternative, Cacay oil, which is rich in Vitamin A and works to promote cell turnover without any of the irritation associated with retinol.
There’s also squalane to lock in moisture, collagen to improve firmness and elasticity, and antioxidant Pink Dragonfruit extract for environmental protection.
The Texture & Scent
Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti-Body Oil lightweight texture
What I really like about this oil is how nourishing it feels, yet how quickly it absorbs into the skin. I love body oils, so much so that I can forgive a bit of a sticky feel, but the Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti-Body Oil has none of that. It’s lightweight and absorbs quickly, leaving behind a silky finish without any greasiness.
Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti-Body Oil blended into the skin
I won’t be the first one to say that is definitely has a distinct Baccarat Rouge 540 air about it. Cheirosa ’68 is all about Brazilian jasmine, pink dragonfruit, ocean air and vanilla. It isn’t an exact dupe for the Maison Francis Kurkdjian Baccarat Rouge 540 as it is much lighter and playful with more tropical vibes, whereas BT540 is richer and deeper. There are definitely similarities though.
How It Feels & Performs
Application: I love using this oil straight after a shower, while my skin is still slightly damp. The pump delivers just the right amount, and it glides on like a dream. A few pumps are all you need for your entire body, especially if you apply to damp skin.
Just to note, I don’t use it everyday because I like to top up my tan a few days a week with my Gatineau Golden Glow Gradual Tan* (which I pretty much cannot live without). Because the Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti-Body Oil is a fairly dry oil and it absorbs quickly, it doesn’t disturb self tan too much.
Results: This makes my skin feel super soft and smooth and also really well hydrated. It gives a gorgeous glow, so I think it will be great in summer when I’m showing a bit more skin. It seems a bit of a waste right now covered in thermal layers and jumpers!! Something to note is that the scent is really long lasting so you feel pampered all day. Lovely!
At £52 for 100ml, it isn’t cheap but it definitely delivers when it comes to skin softness, plus the fragrance does last. So if you fancy a splurge, I don’t think you’d regret it.
If you prefer a cream formula, but like the sound of this oil, read: Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti-Cream Review.
Where to buy it
The Sol de Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti-Body Oil is £52 for 100ml and available now via the links below:
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