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Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stix High-SHimmer Gloss Stick Review & Swatches

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Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stix High-SHimmer Gloss Stick Review & Swatches

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Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stix High-Shimmer Gloss Stick Review & Swatches

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.

What is Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stix?

Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stix High-Shimmer Gloss Stick
Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stix High-Shimmer Gloss Stick
  • A fusion of lip gloss and lipstick
  • High shine colour in a stick
  • Moisture-lock formula
  • Packed with skincare ingredients to condition and nourish lips
  • Nourishing and non-sticky feel
  • Available in a range of shades

Key Ingredients

Squalane & Shea Butter – to moisturise

Vitamin E – for antioxidant protection

Kiwi Oil – to condition

Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stix High-Shimmer Gloss Stick Shimmer Shades & Swatches

I have 6 shimmer shades to show you:

Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stix High-Shimmer Gloss Stick Shades
Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stix High-Shimmer Gloss Stick Shades
  • Shimmering Fenty Glow – shimmering rose nude
  • Shimmering Fussy – shimmering dusty pink
  • Shimmering Hot Chocolit – shimmering rich brown
  • Shimmering Ice Amethyst – shimmering lavender
  • Shimmering Flamingo Fling – shimmering hot pink
  • Shimmering C U in Maui – shimmering coral

Here are the swatches:

Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stix High-Shimmer Gloss Stick Swatches
Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stix High-Shimmer Gloss Stick Swatches
Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Stix High-Shimmer Gloss Stick Swatch - Shimmery Fenty Glow
Shimmery Fenty Glow

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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NYX Face Glue Setting Spray Review

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NYX Face Glue Setting Spray Review

If you’re someone who needs their makeup to stay in place all day long, you know that finding a good setting spray can be really helpful. I’ve been giving the NYX Face Glue Setting Spray a whirl. Here’s what you need to know.

What is NYX Face Glue Setting Spray?

NYX Face Glue Setting Spray
NYX Face Glue Setting Spray
  • Makeup gripping setting spray
  • Transfer and resistant and waterproof
  • Seals makeup for up to 24-hours
  • Forms a protective film over makeup
  • Delivers a natural-looking, second-skin finish
  • Non-sticky feel

How to use it

Shake well, and lightly spritz onto face from an arm’s distance away. Allow to dry.

For enhanced staying power, lightly spritz in-between each makeup layer.

My Review

My Review of NYX Face Glue Setting Spray
My Review of NYX Face Glue Setting Spray

First Impressions: Lightweight Yet Effective

One of the first things I noticed about this setting spray is how light it feels. Unlike some other setting sprays that can leave your face feeling a bit damp or heavy, the NYX Face Glue feels refreshingly light. It doesn’t weigh down your makeup, and it doesn’t leave behind any sticky or tacky residue either, which is honestly one of my pet peeves with some long-wear products.

I really appreciate how the spray doesn’t really alter the look or finish of my makeup. It does have mattifying ingredients in the formula, but it still leaves my skin looking naturally radiant. It manages to help keep everything in place without messing with the texture I’ve created.

Does it work?

I am not really a pro when it comes to setting sprays, and I can take them or leave them, because I tend to wear quite natural looking makeup with long lasting formulas anyway, but I have been really enjoying testing this one out.

I’ve been quite impressed by the difference it makes to my makeup where my glasses sit. What I hate about wearing glasses is that every time you take them off or adjust them, you risk having your makeup disrupted. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the NYX Face Glue Setiing Spray held everything in place. I noticed that when I wore this spray, my makeup didn’t budge as much under the pressure of my glasses.

The Comparison: NYX vs. Charlotte Tilbury

I wanted to make this comparison because I really do love the CT Setting Spray (review here). CT’s setting spray is definitely more luxurious—there’s no denying that. It has a finer mist and that luxurious feel that you’d expect from a high-end brand. The mist is super soft, almost like a cloud, and while it’s a lovely experience to use, it does have a floral fragrance which for some people might be a dealbreaker. I personally really like the scent, but it’s not for everyone.

The Charlotte Tilbury spray also gives a bit more of a glowy finish, making it perfect for that fresh, radiant look.

The NYX Face Glue Setting Spray doesn’t have the same refined mist or the luxe feel of the Charlotte Tilbury version, but it still performs incredibly well. There’s no fragrance here, which will be good for anyone sensitive to added fragrance. The spray feels effective when it comes to holding makeup in place, and while the mist isn’t as fine as the CT one, it’s still pretty even.

The NYX one contains alcohol but it is offset with a humectant (propylene glycol) which means I don’t find it drying. If you have dry skin however, the alcohol in the formula might not be the best for you.

The Charlotte Tilbury has more hydrating ingredients within the formula, however, the NYX does actually have a bit of skincare in there which it doesn’t really boast about. There’s Acer Saccharum Extract (Sugar Maple Extract) which is a good antioxidant that helps with skin hydration. So that’s a big plus especially at the NYX price point.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for something affordable, effective, and lightweight, this is definitely worth a try. It keeps my makeup pretty intact without altering the finish or feeling heavy, and I love that it helps prevent my glasses from moving my makeup. Definitely one to keep in your beauty arsenal if you’re on the hunt for a hardworking, long-wearing setting spray that won’t break the bank!

Where to buy it

NYX Face Glue Setting Spray is £8.99 and available now via the links below:

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ILIA Eye Stylus Shadow Stick Review & Swatches

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ILIA Eye Stylus Shadow Stick Review & Swatches

I am a big fan of ILIA for their easy to use makeup, so I was excited to try these new eye crayons. Here’s everything you need to know about the ILIA Eye Stylus Shadow Stick collection. I have a range of shades to show you.

What is the ILIA Eye Stylus Shadow Stick?

What is ILIA Eye Stylus?
What is ILIA Eye Stylus?
  • Eye shadow stick designed to glide on seamlessly
  • Delivers rich, waterproof pigment
  • Easy to blend
  • Formulated to last up to 12 hours
  • Includes antioxidant Upcycled Grape Extract to provide antioxidant protection
  • Features a slanted tip for versatile application
  • Can be used for a wash of colour, or like a liner
  • Safe for sensitive eyes and ophthalmologist-tested
  • Formulated without fragrance, gluten, and soy
  • Available in 20 matte and shimmer shades

How to use it

As an all over wash: glide the flat side of the slanted tip over lids for a wash of pigment

Line & Define: draw precise lines with the edge of the slanted tip. 

Highlight: use shimmer shades in the inner corners for a brightening boost

ILIA Eye Stylus Shades and Swatches

I have six shades from the 20 shade collection to show you:

ILIA Eye Stylus Shadow Stick Shades
ILIA Eye Stylus Shadow Stick Shades
  • Flax – matte taupe brown
  • Beam – peach pink shimmer
  • Jubilee – warm gold shimmer
  • Nymph – matte lilac pink
  • Regal – plum bronze shimmer
  • Patina – golden olive shimmer

Here are those swatches:

ILIA Eye Stylus Shadow Stick Swatches
ILIA Eye Stylus Shadow Stick Swatches

My Review

ILIA Eye Stylus Shadow Stick - Flax & Jubilee
Flax & Jubilee

As someone who appreciates both simplicity and quality in my beauty routine, I’ve been particularly excited to try the ILIA Eye Stylus Shadow Stick. I think ILIA has really nailed the balance between high-performance products and skin-friendly ingredients so I had high expectations for these shadows.

Packaging

The design is minimal and modern, with a twist-up mechanism that makes it really easy to use. They are nice and sleek so fit into my makeup bag and they have a nice sturdy cap making it safe to just chuck in your bag.

Texture & Application

One of the standout features of the ILIA Eye Stylus is its incredibly smooth texture. The formula is creamy without being greasy, allowing the shadow to glide onto the eyelids effortlessly. It’s neither too dry nor too slippery, providing ample time to blend before it sets into place. The application is seamless, and the texture feels weightless on the skin, so really comfortable for all day wear.

Blendability & Finish

The ILIA Eye Stylus Shadow Stick is really easy to blend. I have first been applying a very fine layer of my REESON Lid Elixir as I use that every day to smooth my lids, and I let that set, then go in with the ILIA. Read REESON Beauty Lid Elixir Eye Serum-Tint Review & Swatches for more info.

Whether you’re applying a light wash of colour or building it up for a more intense look, the formula blends beautifully with a soft brush. I have been using my REESON No. 2 brush and they work really well together.

The shadows have a smooth, velvety texture that helps the product glide on effortlessly. The mattes have a lovely velvety radiance and the shimmers have a very pretty sheen without being overly glittery or too shiny.

Shades & Pigmentation

I have been using Flax which is a lovely taupe all over my lid and then Jubilee (soft gold) as like a spotlight down the centre of my lid, and it’s such a lovely look. It looks done without being too much, which is just perfect for every day.

The pigmentation is impressive – one swipe delivers rich, even colour, and it’s easy to build the intensity to your liking.

Longevity

The ILIA Eye Stylus Shadow Stick performs exceptionally well when it comes to longevity. I’ve worn it through long workdays and even workouts and it stays in place without fading or creasing. I have slightly oily eyelids, so that’s always a concern for me, but I’m pleased to report that the formula holds up remarkably well. Once it sets, it stays put.

Where to buy it

The ILIA Eye Stylus is £32 and currently available exclusively at ILIA. Shop via the link below:

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Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme Plumping Clicks Lip Gloss Review & Swatches

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Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme Plumping Clicks Lip Gloss Review & Swatches

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 Review & Swatches
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 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
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
Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme Plumping Clicks Swatches

My Review

Kiss The Bride - Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme Plumping Clicks Swatch
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
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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Merit Beauty Is Finally at Sephora UK – Here’s What You Need to Know!

 
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Merit Beauty Is Finally at Sephora UK – Here’s What You Need to Know!

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

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Shop at Sephora from March 2025

Merit Beauty Is Finally at Sephora UK – Here’s What You Need to Know!

Merit Beauty fans, rejoice! The minimalist, skin-loving beauty brand is officially launching at Sephora UK in March. If you’ve been eyeing their viral products but hesitated have hesitated, this is huge news!

Merit Beauty Sephora UK Launch Date

Merit Beauty officially lands at Sephora UK on March 11, 2025. Until now, UK shoppers had to order directly from Merit’s website with sometimes slightly higher shipping costs and no way to try products in-store.

Now, you can shop Merit Beauty both online and in physical Sephora stores across the UK!

Why Merit Beauty Sephora UK Launch Is Big News for UK Shoppers

Merit Beauty has gained a cult following for its minimalist, skin-friendly makeup. Here’s why this launch matters:

  • More accessible shipping fees
  • Try before you buy in-store at Sephora
  • Easy returns and Sephora Beauty Pass perks

This launch makes Merit Beauty way more accessible for UK beauty lovers!

Where to Buy Merit Beauty in the UK

The MERIT Beauty Sephora UK launch means that starting 11th March, you can shop Merit Beauty at:

  • Sephora UK (online & in stores)
  • Sephora’s physical locations across the UK

To check local stock availability, visit Sephora UK’s website on launch day.

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

Best Merit Beauty Products to Try

If you’re new to the brand, these are the top-rated Merit Beauty products worth trying:

  • Flush Balm Cream Blush – Natural, dewy colour (see all the swatches here)
  • The Minimalist Perfecting Complexion Stick – Foundation + concealer in one (I use shade Linen)
  • Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil – Hydrating and buildable (see all the swatches here)
  • Day Glow Highlighting Balm – Soft, dewy glow without glitter (see all the swatches here)

Final Thoughts: Is Merit Beauty Worth It?

I am a huge MERIT Beauty fan and love so many of their products. I also carry the Minimalist in shade Linen in my handbag, as it’s such a quick and easy way to keep my complexion looking good on the go.

If you love effortless beauty, Merit is absolutely worth trying—especially now that it’s easier to buy in the UK with the Merit Beauty Sephora UK Launch!

With Sephora UK’s return policy and in-store availability, there’s no reason not to swatch and shop.

Check out all my Merit Beauty product reviews here:

Mark your calendars: Merit Beauty launches at Sephora UK on 11th March.

When is Merit Beauty launching at Sephora UK?

Merit Beauty will be available at Sephora UK from 11th March, 2025. You’ll be able to shop it both online and in physical stores.

Where can I buy Merit Beauty in the UK?

You can buy Merit Beauty at Sephora UK from March 11, 2025. Until now, it was only available through Merit’s own website.

What Merit Beauty products will be available at Sephora UK?

Sephora UK will carry Merit’s full range, including the Minimalist Stick, Flush Balm, Signature Lip, and Bronze Balm. However, you won’t get the free signature bag gift with first purchase like you would through Merit’s own website.

Is Merit Beauty worth it?

Merit Beauty is known for its minimalist, high-quality, and skin-friendly formulas. If you love effortless, no-makeup makeup, their products are definitely worth trying.

Can I return Merit Beauty products bought at Sephora UK?

Sephora UK follows its standard return policy, allowing you to return products if they’re unused and within the return window.

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