Comments Off on NYX Lip IV Hydrating Gloss Stain Review and Swatches
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I have been loving the new launches from NYX so I was really excited to try the NYX Lip IV Hydrating Gloss Stains which really remind of the YSL Glossy Stains that I used to be addicted to back in the day. Here’s the lowdown with photos and swatches.
What is NYX Lip IV?
What is NYX Lip IV?
Hydrating gloss stain
Designed with water-breaking technology
Unique sensorial, lip-refreshing feel
Vinyl-like wet-look glossy finish
Can be left shiny or blotted away to leave a stain
Drip-shaped doe-foot to easily define lip line
Available in 16 shades
NYX Lip IV Hydrating Gloss Stain Shades and Swatches
There are 16 shades in the full collection. I have 6 shades to show you:
NYX Lip IV Hydrating Gloss Stain Swatches
Here are the swatches as a stain although having tested a couple of the shades, I find the stain to be more intense on the lips:
NYX Lip IV Hydrating Gloss Stain Swatches of stain no gloss
My Review
NYX Lip IV in 08 Dripping In Rose
What makes these really great is that, not only are they a super glossy lip colour, but when the gloss has faded away, you are left with a really long lasting stain. As I said at the top, they really remind me the YSL Glossy Stain, especially the Water Pop variety which has a similar watery sensation on the lips.
As a more recent comparison, there is some similarity between the NYX Lip IV and the Rare Beauty Lip Oils. NYX has thicker, glossier, water-like consistency, but both formulas stain the lips in a very similar way. I think that the NYX formula is potentially more hydrating.
If you want to check out the Rare Beauty ones, read: Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Tinted Lip Oil UK Review and Swatches.
There’s a pretty impressive shade collection and all the ones I have are super wearable, especially as a stain. I do find that the thick gloss texture can get on your teeth after you have first applied it, but I am inclined to think that this is a me problem!
Once the gloss has gone and a stain is left, I like to top up with a clear gloss or balm. I am currently obsessed with the Sephora Lift & Firm Plumping Lip Balm* which you can get 20% off of with code REALLYREESPH.
If you’re looking for a lip gloss-lip stain hybrid, I don’t really think you can go wrong with these. My favourite shades so far are 02 Hydra Honey, 07 Bubblegum Burst and 08 Drippin in Rose.
Where to buy them
The NYX Lip IV Hydrating Gloss is £10.99 (although check links for offers) and available now via the links below:
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Comments Off on NARS Amour Collection Review & Swatches
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The NARS Amour collection is a limited edition collection with gorgeous packaging and romance inspired shades. I have it here to show you with photos and swatches.
What is in the NARS Amour collection?
What’s in the NARS Amour Collection?
This limited edition collection has a stunning edit of products. It includes:
I have the majority of the collection to show you, which is exciting! Check out these swatches of the Eyeshadow Quad, the two Blush shades, and the Lipstick.
NARS Amour Eyeshadow Quad Swatches
NARS Amour Eyeshadow Quad
This palette uses a formula that features pure pigments suspended in a unique liquid binding system for rich, high-impact colour. The shades range from a petal pink, rose, chocolate brown matte and a soft pink shimmer:
SWEET KISS I (Shimmering milky pink)
SWEET KISS II (Matte petal pink)
SWEET KISS III (Matte rosewood)
SWEET KISS IV (Matte chocolate brown)
NARS Amour Eyeshadow Quad Swatches
NARS Amour Blush in Cherish & Impassioned
There are 2 shades in this limited edition Amour packaging:
NARS Amour Blush shades
Impassioned 903 – pink orchid
Cherish 925 – soft peach apricot
NARS Amour Blush swatches
Amour Explicit Lipstick
I absolutely love the packaging of the Explicit lipsticks and this limited edition Amour packaging is even more striking. The shade is Only Yours 810 – rose tea brown:
NARS Amour Explicit Lipstick Swatch
My Review of the NARS Amour Collection
Amour Explicit Lipstick packaging
Amour Collection Quad Eyeshadow
The Quad Eyeshadow palette has a gorgeous blend of easy to wear shades. I love the soft pink shimmer and the matte chocolate brown, and the formulas are smooth and pigmented, and really long lasting.
Armour Collection Blush
NARS recently reformulated their full blush collection and the texture is super silky and easy to blend with a really long lasting finish. Both the shades in this collection are very pretty. I love Impassioned because its fairly unique in my collection and it gives such a youthful and flattering flush to the complexion.
Explicit Lipstick in ‘Only Yours’
The Explicit Lipstick in the shade ‘Only Yours’ is a rose tea brown hue that offers a really rich satin finish. I love the shape of the bullets of the Explicit lipsticks. It makes them so easy to line and define the lips then quickly fill in the colour. The formula is super comfortable and long lasting.
Final Thoughts
I love NARS’ limited editions and this is no exception. The packaging is utterly charming with its heart-adorned design and I really like the edit of products and shades.
Amour Blush packaging
I believe it is only in stock on NARS’ website now, so if you like the look of any of the pieces, make sure you snap them up.
Also, NARS just expanded the shade range of their best-selling foundation. You can check out my review of that here – NARS Light Reflecting Foundation Review and Swatches.
Where to buy it
The NARS Amour collection has sold out at retailers, however it is still available via the link below:
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There’s a new range of shimmer shades in the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stix High-Shimmer Gloss Stick collection and I have been testing them out. I have a review and swatches here for you.
If there’s one thing Fenty Beauty does so well, it’s creating universally flattering lip products that just work. Although I didn’t think I’d love the shimmer in this formula, I have actually really been enjoying it and I think it’s super flattering.
First things first, the Gloss Bomb Stix delivers exactly what the name suggests – a glossy, balmy lip colour in an easy-to-use stick format. The shades are nice and sheer and they add add just the right amount of colour to enhance your natural lip tone without being over the top.
Now, I know shimmer in lip products can be a bit divisive but I really think that Fenty has nailed it in this formula. The shimmer in these gloss sticks isn’t chunky or glittery; it’s a fine, refined sparkle that catches the light just enough to give the illusion of fuller, more voluminous lips. If you want a very shimmery effect, you can build this up, but a light swipe creates a very pretty look.
One of my biggest concerns with shimmery lip products is that they can sometimes feel gritty or drying – but these are the opposite. The formula is comfortable and smooth and it glides on effortlessly. It’s got a lovely balmy texture that hydrates without being sticky, heavy or gritty. There’s a subtle spicy feeling but nothing over the top.
I love a warm, bronzy nude, so it’s no surprise that my top pick is Shimmering Fenty Glow. It’s got that perfect mix of warm undertones and soft shimmer that makes lips look naturally plump and juicy. It’s the kind of shade that works for any occasion.
Final Thoughts
If you love a glossy lip but want something easy and low maintenance, the Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stix shades are a must-try. The sheer shades are so pretty, the shimmer is ultra-flattering, and the formula is smooth, comfortable, and never gritty. Plus, the stick format makes them so handy to throw in your bag and apply on the go.
If you are looking for something glossy but without shimmer, I have been loving the new launch from Too Faced. Read Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme Plumping Clicks Lip Gloss Review & Swatches for more info.
Where to buy it
Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stix High-Shimmer Gloss Sticks are £23 each and available now via the links below:
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Comments Off on Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme Plumping Clicks Lip Gloss Review & Swatches
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It has been a while since I featured a new launch from Too Faced but I feel like the brand is having a bit of a moment again and these new glosses are super fun. Here’s everything you need to know about Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme Plumping Clicks Lip Gloss with photos and swatches.
What is Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme Plumping Clicks?
Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme Plumping Clicks Lip Gloss
Nourishing lip balm stick
Designed to instantly plump the lips
Delivers dewy, high-shine colour
Has a fresh strawberry scent
Sheer-to-medium buildable colour
Promises 8 hours of hydration
Creamy gel formula melts on to the lips
Available in 8 shades
How to use it
1: click to dispense gloss
2: swipe straight on to lips
3: click for more product to build intensity but be careful to not over-click as you can’t retract it.
Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme Plumping Clicks Packaging with heart-shaped button
Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme Plumping Clicks Shades & Swatches
There are eight shades in the collection:
Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme Plumping Clicks shades
Feelin’ Spicy: Warm Red-Brown (see swatch below)
On Point: Cherry Red (see swatch below)
Don’t Be Chai: Soft Shimmering Nude (see swatch below)
Perfect Pink: Strawberry Pink (see swatch below)
Kiss The Bride: Cool Mauve Nude (see swatch below)
Voted Most Popular: Fuchsia Pink (see swatch below)
Velvet Crush: Mid-tone Nude Brown
Sweet Lavender: Sheer Lavender
Here are the swatches of Feelin’ Spicy, On Point, Don’t Be Chai, Perfect Pink, Kiss the Bride, Voted Most Popular:
Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme Plumping Clicks Swatches
My Review
Kiss The Bride
Packaging & Design:
Let’s start with the packaging. The gloss comes in a slim, click tube, which makes for easy application. In true Too Faced style, it is super fun with a cute heart shaped button that you click to dispense product. It is the complete opposite of the kind of glam that, say, Victoria Beckham Beauty does, but I really appreciate variety and there always room in my makeup bag for a splash of colour and fun.
You need to be careful not to over-click because once the product is out, you can’t retract it and things could get messy!
Formula & Application:
This is a lovely lightweight formula. It has a hint of that kind of lip oil feel which I think helps prolong wear time. The feeling is spicy as you’d expect from lip plumpers, but not in a crazy way. The tingling sensation is mild and fades quickly.
It feels nice and hydrating on the lips and even once the soft tingling stops, my lips stay looking shiny and plump. It is comfortable and non-drying.
Shades:
There’s a nice variety of shades in the range, all of which are designed to offer a touch of colour and subtle plumpness.
Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme Plumping Clicks Texture
I love how the shades have a jelly kind of translucent look and I really like the colour pay off. They give a gorgeous wash of colour that you can build up for more intensity.
Plumping Effect:
The main selling point of this gloss is the plumping effect, and I have to say, it does deliver this in a really flattering way. While the gloss doesn’t give an extreme plump, it provides a noticeable fullness to the lips, giving them a naturally enhanced look. You need to top up during the day but that’s always the way with glossy lip products if you want shine all day.
Longevity:
In terms of longevity, this gloss holds really well. The shine does fade a bit as time goes on, but the hydration lingers. Reapplication is easy, and I didn’t notice any stickiness or uneven wear, which is always a win for a lip gloss.
Final Thoughts:
Overall, the Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme Plumping Clicks Lip Gloss is a solid option if you’re looking for a comfortable, hydrating gloss with a gentle plumping effect. The shades are versatile, the formula feels good on the lips, and the plumping effect is noticeable but not overwhelming. Whether you prefer a natural nude or a playful pink, there’s a shade for you in this range.
If you’re looking for something more matte, with more of a grown up vibe, check out the latest lip launch from By Terry. Read: By Terry Rouge Opulent Lipstick Review and Swatches.
Where to buy it
Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme Plumping Clicks Lip Gloss is £25 and available now via the links below:
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Comments Off on Estée Lauder x Ladurée Collection Review & Swatches
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Estée Lauder has partnered with the renowned French patisserie Ladurée to create a limited edition makeup collection. Here’s everything you need to know about the gorgeous Estée Lauder x Ladurée Collection. This is a super cute makeup collaboration and I have all the photos and swatches for you to check out!
What is in the Estée Lauder x Ladurée Collection?
What’s in the Estée Lauder x Ladurée Collection
This is a super unique collection that celebrates the artistry of French patisserie with iconic house of Ladurée. The pieces are inspired by the scents, textures and colours of the brand. And it is so pretty!
Estée Lauder x Ladurée Limited Edition Pure Color Lipstick Collection – 2-piece including a full-size refillable lipstick £49
Estée Lauder x Ladurée Swatches
This was a joy to swatch but at the same time it was heartbreaking because it’s almost too pretty to touch! But I did it and I was very happy with the results.
Estée Lauder x Ladurée Limited Edition Eyeshadow Palette Swatches
Estée Lauder x Ladurée Eyeshadow Palette shades
This palette 8 brand new Ladurée -inspired shades in frost and matte finishes. We have soft pink, browns and golds. It is a super wearable collection. The shades have names that all really make me imagine eating those gorgeous macarons! They are:
Petit Pétale – pale pearl pink with a frost finish
Sugared Almond – gilded silver with a frost finish
Champagne – white gold with a frost finish
Framboise Sucrée – rose gold with a frost finish
Rose Meringue – warm rose with a frost finish
Chocolate Crémeux – truffle with a frost finish
Marzipan – taupe with a matte finish
Cocoa Canelle – chocolate with a frost finish
Here are the swatches:
Estée Lauder x Ladurée Eyeshadow Palette swatches
Estée Lauder x Ladurée Limited Edition Lip Oil Collection Swatches
Estée Lauder x Ladurée Lip Oils
There are three limited edition shades in the Lip Oils, each inspired by the Ladurée confections. The formula offers 12 hours of hydration. The shades are:
Glacé – blush opal with a neutral undertone and sheer finish
Sucré – light baby pink with a neutral undertone and sheer finish
Rosé – mauvy berry with a neutral undertone and sheer finish
Lip Oils
Here are the swatches:
Estée Lauder x Ladurée Lip Oil Swatches
And these are the lip swatches:
Glace SwatchSucre SwatchRose Swatch
Estée Lauder x Ladurée Limited Edition Pure Color Lipstick Swatches
Estée Lauder x Ladurée Lipstick Collection
This set offers up a refillable Pure Color Creme Lipstick, plus a refill of a different shade. This formula is longwearing and promise 10 hours of wear and resists bleeding, feathering and creasing.
This limited edition collection includes:
420 Rebellious Rose – mid tone rose with a neutral undertone and creme finish). Refillable.
599 Indulgent Refill – nude tea-brown with a warm undertone and crystal shine finish
Estée Lauder x Ladurée Lipstick Rebellious RoseEstée Lauder x Ladurée Lipstick refill shade – Indulgent
Here are the swatches:
Estée Lauder x Ladurée Lipstick swatches
And here are the swatches on the lips:
Estée Lauder x Ladurée Lipstick Rebellious Rose SwatchEstée Lauder x Ladurée Lipstick refill shade swatch – Indulgent
My Review of the Estée Lauder x Ladurée Collection
Estée Lauder x Ladurée Lip Oils
Before we even talk about the products, let’s take a moment to swoon over the packaging. Inspired by Ladurée’s famous macarons and elegant patisserie boxes, every detail feels super luxurious. Think soft pastels, gold accents, and a chic vintage vibe. It’s the kind of makeup you want to constantly have on display rather than hide in a drawer.
Apparently this baroque aesthetic has been pinpointed as one of the strong trends of 2025 by Pinterest, so this collection could be super popular.
I think the lip oils are my favourite. I love the shades, although I do think they have mixed up the shade descriptions I have been given, so make sure you refer to my swatches rather than the words.
The doe-foot applicator is nice and big, yet defined, so application is really easy.
Estée Lauder x Ladurée Lip Oil Doe Foot Applicator
And the product itself looks and feels great on the lips. They glide on effortlessly, leaving lips nourished and plump with just a hint of colour. Check out all my swatches above.
If you are looking for a more affordable lip oil in a similar format, check out Milk Makeup Kush Lip Oil Review & Swatches.
I also think the lipstick set is really cool. I love how there’s a refill in a different shade that can switch in and out of the packaging depending on what you want to wear that day. I actually think that at £49 for two lipsticks with the limited edition keep-forever packaging, it’s actually a pretty good deal for this EL formula. I suppose it really comes down to whether you like the shades.
Rebellious Rose is a little too pink for me, but I love the nudey brown tones of Indulgent. The design on the bullets and the packaging in general is just stunning.
Estée Lauder x Ladurée Lipstick Rebellious Rose
The formula is what you’d expect from Estée Lauder – super comfortable, hydrating, and long-lasting.
The eyeshadow palette offers up such a pretty range of shades and the packaging is just adorable.
My personal favourite shades are the browns one, Chocolate Crémeux and Cocoa Canelle. I really love the tones and I think they have the most superior formula. Unfortunately, I don’t think every shade is as good as these in terms of texture, so although it is beautiful, and definitely worth picking up as a collector, I don’t think it will be for your real eyeshadow junkie.
Also, personally eight shades is too much for me these days. I tend to be a one and done kind of girl. I basically stick to my REESON Lid Elixir* most days.
When does Estée Lauder x Ladurée launch in the UK?
This limited edition collection is due to launch in March 2025 in the UK. Sign up below for a launch notification.
Keep me informed on this and all Estee Lauder products
Where to buy it
The Estée Lauder x Ladurée Collection is available now in the US via the link below. It launches March 2025 in the UK. Sign up above for updates.
