I believe everyone already knows about my love for Korean Cosmetics. They almost everything in their favour - amazing formulas, affordable price, cute packaging and some of the most innovative ideas. Like for example the BB Cushions that we all nowadays see being launched by various brands - from Lancôme, L'oréal, The Body Shop, before them, it were the Korean Beauty brands who designed it and launched it.

But their lip products are also one of the best options in the markets. Their Lip tints are some of the best we can find all the types and finishes you can imagine. The Etude House Color Lips-Fit are some of my favourites due to their pigmentation and finish. If you are looking for a Liquid Lipstick that is matte but isn't too uncomfortable and can be used for a gradient lip, this is for you.

I believe it's almost a tradition to be missing for a while. The worst part is, it is never by choice. As always, University and life have been catching up with me, making me without any time to come here and write. There is no way I can apologize for this...as heartbroken as it can be. 

Today I reached the final day for the semester. I still have some exams and papers to deliver but I won't be having more classes until February. And yes, I am counting to post again in between. This semester was quite insane. I had tones of work to do and deliver plus I had to catch up with some issues regarding my personal life. But what does not kill us makes us stronger right?

Ever since I got into make up I have been a palette type of girl. Mostly because I like the convenience of having a good selection of shades at easy reach without any fuzz. But with time, it happens that some times brands launch really amazing shades not inside palettes, but as single eyeshadows. Depending on the package this can become a bit of an issue - way too many eyeshadows flying around, things get messy, accidents happen.
Because of this solutions started to happen - why not create a magnetic palette that can carry eyeshadow pan and give the opportunity of building our own eyeshadow? And this is how Z-Palette and many other brands started to appear. Than MAC also provided their "build-your-own-palette" system and so many more brands. It's pretty much a staple to many brands - if they happen to launch a single eyeshadow collection, they need to launch the option of building a palette. Even Urban Decay has it - although their system is a bit different and something that I sadly tend to forget.
But even with my love for palettes, I found myself getting a few single eyeshadows. The question starts here, should I or should I not depot all of them, just like I did with my H&M eyeshadows and my Benefit Blush/Bronzer and Eyeshadow?

I was doing a overlook around my palette drawer and I realized I wasn't giving too much love to these two palettes. In that moment two things appeared in my mind : one I needed to obviously use them more often again since I still really like both of them and two - I need to compare them.Both are amazing palettes that neutral lovers love and appreciate.

These two babies are the crown jewel of what will become my comic collection. I usually read comic online but I am starting to put effort into getting physical versions - not only to help the comic industry and those who worked on the stories , but also because I like to collect things that I love. Collection comics is something that I like as much as collection Harry Potter Books (because I am collection more than one version...).
Before anything let me tell you this : I love both Marvel and DC Comics. I am not part of any type of war like " who's better" or "who's cooler". I love characters from both Universes for different reasons. So no wars around here please?

So I was invited to spend a week at my aunt's house - which is really close to the beach and would allow me to tan a little bit. I obviously too my laptop with me - I mean...I have shows to watch, photos to edit and I've been using my free time to write posts and prepare them to the blog. This time I want to have things more prepared and under control for when Uni starts again. While there, I had a really great time and as you can imagine I obviously took a few items of make up with me. Who am I kidding...I probably took way too much considering I spent my time trying to tan and having fun with my family. But I like to be prepared to any occasion...we never know what might appear. I could be there catching the sun and be invited to an important event. And even with that in mind I tried to not pack too much.
If you are wondering about what I took in terms of skin care, I went to my sample box and took the great majority of them with me. I don't own travel sized skin care and pouring stuff into other containers wasn't in my mind either. And as for brushes I can say that I'm really proud of myself. With the exception of basic eyeshadow brushes, I only too the necessary - I might do a brush related post regarding that later. But let's check in detail what I took with me and why.

I thought a lot about this before taking any decision. As some of you might know - others not so much - this blog turned 3 years. It has been my goal, work and safe place. It made me excel my own odds, it made me work harder and harder.

Hello Everyone!! How's it going ? I hope everything is well and okay with you! Today I'll be talking about something that I believe is really, but really important when dealing with make up : properly clean and take care of brushes. Let's be honest, brushes can be quite of an investment - I don't personally own anything like that but, someone with hakuhodo's (which are hand made I believe) will want to make sure that their brushes look amazing and are properly washed and dried out. But I own a good number of them - and I still want more? like...-and I want to make sure that they last as long as I can. Specially eye brushes - no one wants out-of-shape blending brushes.
With all of this in mind I've been doing my own research and I finally found the perfect hack for this issue. I have to mention that there are some tutorials regarding this that are actually misleading - I'll explain why later. So beware of that.

 Hello Hello! I'm finally able to write a proper review regarding this foundation! I wanted to do it before but due to my winter paleness I wasn't really able to do it until now.  I wish brands would carry out more paler shades - it's really hard to get a decent match from any Maybelline or L'Oreal foundation here for example. I'll always have to order them online, otherwise it is as if I had spread nutella on my face.
I used to go for extremely matte foundations but, as I started to age, my foundation taste changed. I'm now more into lightweight and natural looking foundations. I like it when it looks like my own skin but better. And with this in my mind I decided to get my hands on the Clinique Even Better Foundation, since it claims to even out the skin tone without looking too cackey or anything like that.  It isn't just my thing.

Once upon a time, I wrote a post called 10 Korean Beauty products to try. In that post I showcased 10 different beauty products and explained why I liked them and why you should try them. And now I am back with another 10 products I believe you guys need to try out. It is true that most of them are from the same brand, but I swear it wasn't planned in that way. I'll probably do another post in the future with more items from more different brands.  So without any further due, here another 10 Korean Beauty products I believe are worth your attention :

The Saem Cover Perfection Lip Concelaer

With the Lip gradient craze, everyone tried to archive said look. But sometimes it's quite difficult - either our lips are already pigmented or the tint shade we are using is really pale. To work out on these said issues there is a solution - a lip concealer. Many youtubers usually use regular concealer but Korean actually have an appropriate product for that - which isn't as drying and uncomfortable. The Saem's Lip Concealer is a good choice since it is contained in a tube form and it is super easy to blend and easy to work out on your lips. It is also a really nice product to have in your kit if you happen to be a Makeup Artist.

Etude House Dear Darling Tint 

If you enjoy K-Pop or Korean Fashion in general you already realised that most of the times Koreans tend to prefer tints over Lipsticks. Tints are really amazing for everyday looks since they aren't that much of a statement and usually give a more youthful look. After becoming disappointed with Benefit's tint I decided that it would be a nice idea to try out the "real thing" and get myself a Korean liptint. When Etude House celebrated their 10 Year Anniversary they launched a specially collection of their tints with a Pink Cap and I thought it would be the perfect time to get one. I have to say that I am impressed. The tint is very pigmented and easy to apply and work. You can either do gradient looks or even apply it like a regular liquid lipstick. And above everything else it isn't too drying. Something that truly deserver attention.

Mizon Ultra Suboon Cream

What can I say about this moisturiser? I already wrote a review in the past declaring my endless love to this moisturiser. I mean, it has one of my favourite ingredients - Hyaluronic Acid - and it is super affordable. My skin always looks amazing when I apply this moisturiser and my makeu p tends to look a lot better whenever I do it. If you are looking for a good moisturiser but you don't want to crack your budget, try to get this one.
 

Secret Key Starting Treatment Essence
Korea is known for developing skin care without any issues. One of the items they have developed - and are starting to be replicated on Western Skin Care - is Essence. And Essence is something you tend to apply either with a cotton pad or with your clean hands and it is meant to be used between the toner and the serum. An Essence is something like a water full of vitamins that will boost up you serum and moisturiser. I went for Secret Key's because it is similar to the popular Missha The First Treatment Essence and to the SK-II Esssence - but costing a fraction of both, specially when compared to the second. My skin has been looking more healthier whenever I apply this - pore getting unclogged, no major breakouts and scaring is healing without any major problem.

 

Etude House Lash Perm Shockcara Mascara
I got this lovely mascara from Shayne last year when we did our second swap and I can't believe I haven't spoken about here. Although this says it makes our lashes more shocking and all, in fact it gives a gorgeous natural but composed look to the lashes. I really like the wand, specially to apply it on my bottom lashes. And the formula is really, really good.  I tend to have issues with some mascara formulas - normally I can only wear wither Benefit or Korean. I once used a Maybelline mascara and my eyes couldn't stop crying and all I wanted to do was scratching. I really want to try out their newest mascara, but this one will always have a soft spot in my heart.
 

Etude House Look at My Eyes Eyeshadow
I got two of these to see what was the fuzz surrounding the Etude House single eyeshadows. I wasn't expecting to be blown away like I was. The matte shade is my go to blending crease shade. It doesn't matter what look I am using, what eyeshadow I am using - I'll use it. It isn't powdery at all. Actually, it performs better than the matte eyeshadows I have from brands like Urban Decays ( yes, I said it!). The pressed Glitter shadow is so, but so good. You can obviously use it dry but I love to wet a synthetic brush with make up fixer or a mist and apply it on my lids and let me tell - once placed, it won't move, fade or have any type of fallout. I'm seriously considering getting more shades from this range.
 

Innisfree Mineral Single Eyeshadow
After the good experience I had with the Etude House eyeshadows, I decided to try out the Innisfree shadows. Pretty much like the Etude House shadows, these have a gorgeous texture, pigmentation and performance. They are easy to blend, they don't crease and the glitter shadow performs as beautifully on my lids, without any major fallout. The colour range is also gorgeous, with seasonal shadows being launched every year.

 

 

Etude House Moisture BB Cushion
Forgive me for showing up a limited edition case but it was the one I got when I bought this cushion so I couldn't just take it out of the case. I got this Cushion last year and I actually need to repurchase a refill soon. This cushion is perfect for the winter time where I want something moisturising that helps me with the cold of the winter. It also leaves a really natural effect to the skin and doesn't cake on anything. I'm seriously impressed with this one and actually it made me want to try out more cushions (even from western brands).
 

Aritaum Sugarball Velvet Blusher
I think I have mentioned these blushes a few times here. They are usually the ones I take with me when I am travelling somewhere. They are pigmented and leave a really natural flush to my cheeks. You could think that Korean blushes aren't that pigmented but actually brands have been changing that type of concept. The packaging of these can seem a bit bulky but considering it has a good brush and a decent mirror, it isn't that bad. I just wish they could have more shades.
 

Etude House Liquid Lips Lipstick

I recently wrote a review about these little guys. I still want to grave two nude shades from this range - and maybe another burgundy shade? Who knows?. The applicator is just perfect to apply the product into your lips and the formula is really amazing. They aren't super matte at first but with time they dry out as such. And can talk about how cute this packaging is? I'm sorry Kylie but Etude House does it better. (no hate for saying this! it's just my humble opinion!!)

I hope you guys enjoyed this post! Korean Beauty is something I'll always love and get interested in. TonyMoly is finally available here and I am thinking about getting some bits and bobs around my birthday time. I'll also try to catch up on writing the review about the Secret Key Essence and my talking about my current skin care routine. I've been working hard around here - or trying to at least. Thank you very much for reading and if you have any recommendations, feel free to leave them. Take care and have a nice day!

I think at some point, we all wonder what's inside each other make up bag. Finally I took the time to share what's inside mine. Everyone has different tastes and opinions regarding how their make up bags are - someone people like to take half of the their make up collection, others like to keep it within the minimum. Personally, I like the idea of being prepared for any occasion but not overwhelming my make up bag with items. Things like foundation and primers have no space here for example. I might think about adding a small container of concealer and a travel sized mascara for example. And more blotting paper. But let's see what I actually have inside :

Compact Mirror

This mirror was actually a gift of my brother, which is why I decided to place it here without thinking twice. I might have a mirror on my powder compact but sometimes when I am just retouching my lipstick, it's better to use this once. It means there will be less chances of me breaking ( again) my favourite powder compact.

Clinique Chubby Stick in 14 Curvy Candy

I got this guys from a Sephora Sale last year and I decided it was the perfect for my make up bag. Let's imagine I forget to pack lipstick one day...I'll always have this guy on hand. It's not super pigmented but it is enough. It's also moisturising, which really helps considering that my lips sometimes decide to get chapped. I'm curious about other shades they might have.

Sephora Eyeshadow Jumbo Pencil in Beige
I also got this from the sales section last year. I used to have this shoved inside my drawer but later I decided to have it here. Let's imagine I don't have time in the morning to do my eye make up but I happen to have 5 extra minutes before class. I can easily apply this little guy on my lips and that's it. Eye look done without any type of fuzz or issues.

Sephora waterproof Brown Pencil
I think we can all notice how much I love this pencil. I'm actually on the hunt for a similar pencil. I like to have this little guy for the same reason I like to have my eyeshadow jumbo pencil - I can just line my waterline with this and I'll have a simple make up look done without any issues or problems. I can also do retouches to other make up looks with it. Seriously, having this on hand is a good thing.

O Boticário EGO Woman dolce roll-on Perfume
This is probably one of funnier things I own here. Every time I pull this out people look at me and ask what am I using and how good it smells. I like roll-on perfumes because they are easy to apply and carry. I tend to always apply perfume in the morning time but, some times I like to retouch it and this is just perfect. I might get a new one soon since this one is more than half-way trough.

Essence Powder Brush
This is the cheapest brush I own. It isn't spectacular or anything special but does the job - applying powder and retouch my make up during the day.  And that's all I ask/need to. Although I might switch for a retractable brush one of these days - I used to want one from Too Faced because of how cute it was.

Catrice Prime and Fine Mattifying Powder Waterproof
A staple in my make up bag. This is my favourite powder - it is transparent, super fine and lightweight and takes care of any oiliness or shine from my face without any major issue. It also doesn't leave that powdery/cakey look that some powders tend to do. I once broke the compact of one of these and I was seriously heart broken because of it.

Catrice Beautifying Lip Smoother
If you every wanted to try out the Clarins Lip Perfector but you don't want or can spend that amount of money on a tinted lip balm, check this one! It's the perfect combination of a lip gloss and lip balm. When I am no wearing the clinique chubby stick, I go for this one. I also like to use it on top of lip tints. It's super moisturising and makes my lips look a lot more healthier and good looking.

Lastly but not least, I might also have random lipsticks inside my make up bag - here yo can see cinnamon kiss from Too Faced which was what I had been wearing on the previous day. You might also find NYX Soft Matte Lip Creams and the Sephora Lip Stains here on a daily basics.
I hope you enjoyed this post! Take care.

Not everyone has the budget to splurge on Too Faced and Urban Decay and truth to be told, the drugstore ( or high street? ) section has beautiful gems that do a beautiful job - sometimes even better than the one performed by more expensive brands. With that in mind, here are 10 products under 10€ that I believe deserve all the love and attention!

Catrice Liquid Camouflage High Coverage Concealer
I think I've already mentioned this concealer at least three times during the past weeks. But this is seriously one of the best concealer I've ever tried - and I'm counting with the 3CE Full Coverage Concealer. It is super to blend, specially when you work it with a Beauty Blender ( or something similar to it). The coverage is really good, but with the pro that it isn't that drying like some high coverage concealers are. It leaves a very natural look to the skin. The only downside it that there are (so far) only two shade available. I hope they get to get a larger colour range and who knows, maybe launch colour correcting concealer in liquid form as well?

Catrice Prime and Fine Mattifying Powder Waterproof
Although the Soap & Glory Powder gain a lovely spot on my heart, I have to say that this bad boy is still rocking. It's my official powder for retouching during the day and travelling - without even thinking twice. This powder is super mild and fine, not leaving any cake look to the face. It controls any oiliness that might decide to appear and it's translucid - it doesn't leave any white cast onto the face. This is my second compact that I'll repurchase it without thinking twice for sure.

H&M Pure Radiance Powder Blusher
So far I only own Cameo Pink but since I am considering getting another shades I think this little guy deserves to be mentioned. In terms of the product itself it isn't a powdery blush - props for that. It applies beautifully to the skin and blends without any major issue. The only downside might be the fact that the compact is a little fragile and doesn't carry a mirror. leaving that aside, the H&M blushes deserve a try.

H&M Pure Velvet Cream Blusher
I've said it before and I'll say it again - I like this one more than my bourjois cream blushes ( not that I don't like them any more! I still do!). This is so easy to blend and holds in such a beautiful way to the skin that sometimes I foget that this is a budget friendly product and not a high end one. The only downside again is that it doesn't have a mirror and the packaging is quite weak. That aside, I can't wait to get more shades from this range.

NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream
I already wrote a whole post talking about how much I love these little guys. I can't wait to get my hands on their Lingerie brothers. These are super comfortable to the lips and really easy to apply. I've been using Zurich and San Paulo a lot lately and sometimes I even like to mixture them with other liquid lipsticks - like the Sephora Lip Stains. Their colour range is amazing and has an option for every taste - from a light pink to a deep burgundy and even dark blue!



Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge
Pretty much a more friendly version of the Beauty Blender. I have this guy for a year and to far I have to say that I am in love! My foundation always look amazing whenever I apply it with this and my under eye concealer looks so much natural when I use this - not it doesn't with a concealer brush, but the effort is completely different. I am seriously thinking about getting another one or two, specially since I started to get into the "baking craze" and I need at least a spare brush always on reach. The same of this sponge isn't completely like the beauty blender but I like how it is designed. I really like the flat part to blend in concealer or to apply powder under my eye area.

Argent Makeup 201 Blending Brush
Another item I can't stop raving about. Seriously, you guys need to try out this! It has the perfect shape and bristles to give you a perfect blending to your eye look. It doesn't matter if you are working with creams or with regular powder eyeshadows , this guy will work it without any major issue. Everyone needs to have one of these in their arsenal.

The Body Shop Lip Butter
Since I lost my dearest Nuxe Rive the Miel back in February - yes I'm morning it since that time. I've been using this little guys. At first went for it because It was something I already had with me...not I can't stop using it. I'll for sure repurchase the Nuxe Lip Balm for the Winter Time ( and keep it inside a vault and implement a GPS tracking system next time I decided to take it with me on a trip....) but now that it's super hot this guy has been saving my life. I wear tones of Matte Lipsticks and with the infernal heat, you guys can imagine how my lips end up...this little guy had been taking care of that and making my lips look amazing and super pretty.

Inglot Individual Shadows
Shame on me for not reaching for these more often and for not finishing this palette! I went to an event the other day and I decided to make a summer look with the orange and red shade from this palette and I can't explain how easy it is to work with these! Their shade selection is also really remarkable. My 2017 makeup goal will be finishing the rest of this palette and love these eyeshadows more!

Gosh Forever Eyeshadow Stick
These are true gems hidden at the drugstore!! I got two of these just " to try it out" and now I hooked to them. It doesn't matter if I wear them as a base, alone or just highlighting my inner corner - they will stay put and look amazing. Considering I have a huge oil production on my eye lids, it is amazing. Their shade selection could be a little bigger - I wish they had a pink and a cranberry shade - but I can't wait to get the brown and the purple one. If you can, snatch one of these and try them yourself!

I hope you guys liked this post. Obviously there are more products that could be mentioned here - like the Essie Nail polishes, H&M nail Polishes and many other goods. I might do a similar post but regarding more expensive brands - but probably with less products. Do you guys have any recommendation regarding any product? Thank you very much for reading this! Take care.

As someone with oily and really fine hair, dry shampoo is something I like to have with me. A small can can always be found on my bad and during my travelling.

I remember the huge rave that stroke YouTube and Blogs in the UK when this collection was released. Everyone said this was the best dry shampoo - it would give volume, work and was invisible. I have brown hair so I used to struggle with the white cast that would sit on my roots when I used my old dry shampoo...this seemed to be a miracle. Because I was curious and I didn't wanted to settle for something in particular, I decided to get the Travel set from Feelunique - when they weren't shipping from the UK mainland and my package got this huge tax issue ( which is why I probably won't be ordering from them...I'de rather order from LookFantastic, HQhair or BeautyBay since they all ship from the UK and I don't have issues...at least until the UK leaves the EU - which is something I shouldn't talk about here...but to be honest I don't know how that is going to end).

Anyway, they had this really nice travel sized pack with 5 different dry shampoos ( and a bag, which is lost in the Island of travel Bags that I have). They pretty much do the same thing - give volume, they don't give a white cast, they are really refreshing to my scalp and they smell nice. Some better than others - My favourites are Paris, Rio and New York. London and Tokyo aren't bad, but they aren't my thing to be honest.
They pretty much have all the same effect on me. For starters they all leave this really wonderful fresh feel to my scalp, which is something really nice. They don't leave that horrible white cast filter on my roots like some dry shampoos do and they give a really nice boost of volume. But don't get to excited to the "boost of volume" - it isn't that much and it will fade  out during the day.
To be honest, I don't see my self repurchasing these any time soon. Not only because they don't hold de volume/fresh look to it, but because I actually tried out something else that it is cheaper and that I can get easily without any extra tax or customs issues. But if you don't have a really, really oily hair and a more thicker hair than mine, this will probably work out better for you. Specially because they still have the winning point of being invisible and with a nice smell.

Have you tried any other dry shampoo ? I'm always open to recommendations. I had an issue with one from Bumble&Bumble because it didn't do a thing and with another one from Syoss that would leave this horrible white cast on my roots. So far I am thinking about getting Batiste - specially because they now also sell at primark, which makes my life a lot easier. I'm also curious about one from Tigi,
I hope you enjoyed this post! I'm trying ( in the middle of a heat wave) to work around more posts and content to the blog, since now I finally have more free time to do it properly. Take care, have a nice day!

In more recent days, I've realised that we should pay attention to the simple things in life. I mean...I don't need a new lipstick or a new blush to make me happy. Simpler things can turn a gloomy day into something exciting and good. As Dumbledore days : 

“Happiness can be found, even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” 

So here are 10 things that make me happy and why.

1. Hanging out with my Friends.

This one sounds like a cliché I know but it is true. There are two people in my life that make my days brighter everyday. It doesn't matter if there's a whole storm on the other side, they will just take out the clouds and make me see the Sun and the Blue sky that lies on the other side.

2. Sunny Days.

It may seem as something stupid, but I tend to have a better mood if it's sunny instead than clouds or rain. Rain tends to make want to stay at home, which isn't bad but something isn't really the ideal situation. When it's sunny I like to walk around in the nature and be active. Still sounds silly, but is indeed one of the things that makes me happy.

3. Walking Around.

It doesn't matter if it is through Lisbon, through my hometown or through parks and nature, walking tends to help me. Whenever I have free time I just enjoy walking. Even the other day, instead of just looking to nothing I decided to took a walk around the Gulbenkian Garden and it was the best thing I could do. Walking is pretty much the closest thing I have to meditation - I also organize my thoughts and ideas while walking around. I really intend to keep doing it, more and more!

4. Watching Disney Movies

This one is really silly, but it is quite true. Whenever I am more unhappy, there's nothing like watching a Disney movie - have you watched Zootopia? It's really cute and amazing! I totally recommend it!!. Something we need to go back in order to move further in a better way. But hey, the past stays in the past, otherwise Rafiki might show up a little angry at some point. ( I guess I'm worse than Grey Worm from Game of Thrones at making jokes, ain't I? )

5.Reading on Underground/Subway
Reading while walking around inside the lines of the Underground/Subway. I don't really know why but it's just something I like to do. I also like to read while travelling with my family - some people say that I shouldn't do this because I'll get dizzy...But I never did...
The only downside of this is when I am laughing my lungs out of some really funny part - like Dumbledore saying that his scar looks like the Underground Map? - and having people looking at me and thinking "that girl must have a problem". But it's worth it!
6. Music
Music has been something that helps me with having a more positive look to life and days. For example, whenever I am stressed with something or I really need to focus on work, I tend to listen to the Ori and the Blind Forest Soundtrack. It's one of the most relaxing things I can do and I truly recommend it to any one.
But there are other genres that can also lift my mood. Kpop has been a staple for years in my playing - lately I've been listening to BTS and Red Velvet a lot. Also, I had a really funny moment while Skyping with friends - I was listening to the English Version of ONE OK ROCK's and let's say...I really enjoyed Mighty Long Fall a little too much. (I'm not ashamed, it's my favourite song and I was happy, that's all that matters)
 
 




7. The Sound and Smell of the Sea.
If you follow my instagram you know I love to visit the seaside. It's somehow relaxing and helps reflect and have a positive perspective on things. Nowadays I try to go there at least once a month and I don't regret it. It's the best thing I have done. Seriously, if you can, go to the beach/seaside. Sit near ( but safely) the Ocean and breath that amazing air. It's pure Heaven.

So, what makes you happy? I hope you guys enjoyed this post. It feels nice to write something different here, once in a while. Life isn't just made of skin care and lipsticks. Take care, have a nice day!

I haven't write a post regarding monthly favourites for a long, long time. Mostly because of how busy my life has been. And to be honest, I wouldn't see any major change in terms of my routine that would be worth mentioning. favourites take a while to be favourites I guess. Because of that I took the decision to only write about favourites whenever I would felt like it. Now that the first 6 months of the year have passed - say what? - It feels like the proper time to do so. With no further due, here are my mid-year make up favourites (I'll probably do a post regarding my currently skin care routine later on) 

Zoeva 227 Luxe Soft Definer 

Most people dream about MAC's 217. And then there's me - who is very happy with Zoeva's version. Seriously, every time I  use this brush, I consider getting another spare brush (I already own another 227). This brush is perfect for those frantic mornings where I want to do something close to a proper eyeshadow look but I can't bother too much with blending because I am late for Uni (or colege if you live in the USA). This brush is amazing to do the typical "wash of colour" on the eye lid. I also like it to regular blending, specially when I indeed have time to do proper eyeshadow looks. 

Argent Makeup Brush in 201 

Let me start by saying that I need to get two spares of this bad boy. I am yet to find a blending brush that does the same good job as this brush. Zoeva's are good - don't get me wrong - but because of the shape and bristles of this brush, I am able to do blending at whole new level. The shape is just perfect for my eyes - some blending brushes tend do be too big, making a hot mess instead of a beautiful blending.  If you can, don't think twice about trying out this brush. You won't regret it. 

Argent Makeup Brush in 102 

What can I say? I love blush, it's something I love applying. And to do that I like to use soft brushes. This one is so, but soo soft, I can't even explain it. The shade is also really amazing, considering how the apple os my cheeks look like. I also like to use it for bronzer and contour sometimes - it blends it without any major issues.  

Catrice Liquid Camouflage Concealer

No one will believe me, but I only own one concealer at this point. Yes, you read it right. One concealer. But it is probably one of the best concealers I have used. In the past I had some issues with Catrice concealers because they would be a little hard to blend, but this one - probably because of the liquid formula - it's just a dream. It has amazing coverage, making my dark circles vanish ( although it's hard because they are really bad). And it is super affordable and super easy to apply. I'm planing on getting another concealer in the future, but this one will always be an option. 

Too Faced Cocoa Powder Foundation 

Liquid hasn't been really option to me. Mostly because I've been enjoying a more natural look to the skin. This Powder foundation has been my staple because of that - it takes away the redness around my nose but lets my skin look like skin. And to think I used to call this " the good smelling powder". Nowadays I am considering getting this again once it hits pan without thinking twice. 

Clinique Cheek Pop in 03 Berry Pop 

I never though I would love this blush as much as I do. The texture of this blush is quite funny - at first seems like a cream, but is indeed a powder blush. I only need a tiny bit of this and my cheeks look all healthy and good looking. It also stays in place for...8 to 10 hours without moving? Impressive indeed, specially when I get ready in the morning and only get home after 10 hours - which include running to the bus, pollution, air conditioning and that kind of lovely stuff. I choose this shade in particular because it has become my go-to shade, no matter the occasion. 

H&M Beauty Department Blush in Cameo Pink 

Another staple in my collection. Whenever I want a neutral blush, this is the first thing grab - another option the Benefit's Rockateur - because it just looks amazing. It is fairly inexpensive and the quality is quite impressive. It isn't powdery or anything like that and blends beautifully. I should be rewarded for not getting my drawer full of these guys. 

Sephora Lip Cream Stain in Marvelous Mauve
Liquid Lipsticks have been a staple in my makeup routines lately. Alone or in a combination - I'll blame NikkieTutorials for my recent obsession regarding matte-gradient lips ( not the same as the Asian gradient lips, which I actually enjoy for the Summer time. I've been using this shade almost as a MLBB shade. And to think that I almost didn't get it. I have a friend who is always complementing me whenever I use this and is currently thinking about getting one for herself. I really want to get more shades like this one (if you read my previous post regarding my wish list you'll notice that).
If you are looking for a Mauve-nude liquid lipsticks, be sure to try this one. You won't regret it.

NYX Soft Matte Liquid Lipstick in Zurich
I don't know why, but it seems that NYX is currently everywhere - youtube, blogs, instagram. I believe it's due to their repackaging and kind of "rebranding". I don't know, I used to not pay attention to this brand but recently their releases have been indeed really good. I am a real fan of their liquid lipsticks and I can't wait to try out their Lingerie Liquid Lipstick line (along side with other goodies). I picked Zurich because it's the perfect nude shade. I tend to wear this either alone or combining it with other liquid lipsticks. And to think I almost didn't got it!

Here are my mid-year makeup favourites! I already have a few posts prepared to write and launch. I might also do some "lifestyle" posts and some "tourist" posts regarding some of the Summer trips I might do. After all, I am finally and officially on Summer Vacation! It was a crazy year, but more craziness and hard work is about to come. Bring it on I guess! Thank you very much for reading and take care!

I think I don't do one of these for a long, long time. Once in a while I think it's okay to do wishlists. (I mean, it's not like we are spending actual money by doing them). The one I have here will probably be the guideline for repurchasing some products that are finishing or for things I want to get later on my Birthday. It's a little misture of everything ( I'm open to other suggestions to be honest ) So here are the items I am currently craving and why: 

Too Faced Born This Way Concealer

I have been a really good girl, because I currently just own one concealer. Yes, just ONE concealer and I really want to have a second option. Although I feel tempted to get a concealer palette someone, I have been thinking about getting another "wand concealer". It's more easier to apply in my opinion. Regarding this one in particular, I have been reading really positive reviews . If I don't get this one, I might get the Urban Decay Naked Skin Concealer. 

Urban Decay Naked Skin Color Correcting Fluid in Pink

With the "colour correcting craze", I have been thinking about getting a more pinkish toned concealer for my under eye area. I tend to prefer liquid concealers so I was really please when I heard that Urban Decay was launching a collection of colour correcting concealers. I know NYX has a similar formula but sadly they don't own the exact shade I want...although I might get instead the Sephora Bright Future Color Corrector in Pink ( which has a similar formula but costs half of the price). 

Anastasia of Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Eyeshadow Palette

I have spend a whole year without getting a new eyeshadow palette. Yes, you read it right. And to be honest, there hasn't been any palette really calling for me...but this one has the type of shades that I like - pinks, cranberrys, golds and warm browns. The only downside is that it is a little expensive in Europe when compared to other eyeshadow palettes from other brands. I might be able to snatch a coupon for this one. ( who knows!) 

Too Faced Sketch Marker eyeliner ( both in Black and Brown)

Eyeliner has been a staple in my stash. My clio eyeliner is giving it's goodbye's and although I own a small version of the Kat Von D's eyeliner, I really want to get a full size eyeliner and I want to get a brown one as well ( I'll forever blame Shannon from Shaaanxo for this crave! she did a gorgeous look using pink eyeshadow and brown eyeliner)

Nabla Blossom Blush ( Beloved and Impulse) 

Nabla for those who don't know is an Italian brand that has entered the spotlight around Portugal, Spain and Italy (not sure if also in the UK and France). They have refill eyeshadow pans, lipsticks and recently they released blushes, highlighter and contour powders. I might get the Highlighters later but I really wanted to get these two blushes ( I mean, don't they look pretty?) 

TonyMoly Tomatox Clay Mask 

I am a huge fan of the Korean Beauty and recently Sephora here started to sell TonyMoly - yes you heard it right! They don't have the full range ( mostly because they weren't sure weather it would be a hit or not...which has been) but I don't give too much until they have their makeup here as well. So far they have most of their hit products, including this mask. I've used samples of it twice and I really want it - it's a pickup mask, a light version of the Avéne Cleanance Mask. Crossing fingers that it's back in stock. 

Pixi Glow Tonic

Acid Toning has been a thing in my routine for a while. It was ( among other changes) what made my skin better and breakout free. I have been trying out other toners ( the Missha Time Revolution and the First Aid Beauty Pads) but I really want to get my hands on this baby. Caroline Hirons raves about it and I truly believe in her recommendations. I'm also looking for their Cleansing Balm and their 20% Glycolic Acid Pads. 

NYX Proofit! Eyeshadow Primer 

My Lime Crime Primer is finally giving it's last breath and I won't repurchase it - not only because it is too expensive but also because I cannot support that brand anymore. I was torn between the Too Faced version and the Urban Decay version ( both got reformulated recently) but I heard that this bad boy is the perfect dupe for the Nars primer - which is apparently the best eyshadow primer for oily lids. I might get a high end version, But I want to get my hands on this one for sure. 

Too Faced Melted Matte Liquid Lipsticks ( Child Star, Sell Out, Queen B and Bend and Snap) 

I tend to avoid posts like this, but sometimes I just feel like I should do them. After all, this is more or less my personal corner as well. So prepare yourself for a more or less self-introspection type of post. 

Half of the Year has passed by. Like..how even? I feel like Yesterday was the New Year's Eve and I was asking for a good 2016. And so far it has been for the most part, although it also feels like a constant roller coaster. But it was also the year where I found my self clearly and I was able to see how changed I was. 

First of all, I realised that no matter what - no matter how hard it is - I should always stand by what I think it's right. It can be hard, it can be really difficult indeed. But I don't stand for what I believe, no one will do it for myself. 

Second, realising that it's not the number but the quality - specially regarding friends. It's more positive to have just one good true friend than a bunch that probably won't support you or help you where you truly need. I have to admit that I had a bit of an issue adapting to this mind step but...the difference is huge. I'm not saying that you shouldn't meet new people and make friends, not at all. But not all of them need to know everything that you do. Some things should remain to special people and that's it. 

Another important thing that I learned was that no matter how hard it is, we need to let people go. But go for good. There isn't any point in keeping people in our lives just for the sake of it. A friend once told me that not everyone is meant to stay in our life forever or for long periods of time and we should accept it. But with this said, we should also realise that some people are indeed meant to be in our lives - the ones that no matter how far apart we are from each other, we always find a way of meeting and coming back into each others life.  We just need to realise who is meant to stay and who is meant to leave and work things around it. It isn't "easy peasy", but it is something that needs to be done. 

Also, don't let yourself go with other people's issues. That was something I learned in the hard way...Seriously, being neutral sometimes is the best option. Specially when dealing with someone who is prone to create confusion without thinking about the consequences first. And if that person is selfish, things can get even more darker than what you would expect. So be careful. 

But I also learned that no matter how dark things are, there is always light. You know when Dumbledore says that we just need to turn it on? He wasn't joking around. Also, there are always special people around us to help us to become a better version of ourselves. We just need to look with precision and carefully. 

I know this post probably is looking quite strange by now. But my year was strange too. Whenever I thought things couldn't get worse I would be surprised...and then I would see that I could get through it, even when I thought I didn't have the strength to it. I grew more spiritually than even too. 

I learned that some time we should just back from confusion and conflicts. That it's okay to be assertive and say " no is no". That we really need some time alone to think by ourselves and reevaluate situations - because in the end, we are the ones who possess the answers we need. 

One of the best things I did this year was to visit the gardens from "Quinta da Regaleira", located in Sintra ( which is part of the District of Lisbon). It was one of the most peaceful journeys I had. I was able to find myself and realise I still had a major path ahead of me. That it is true when they say that we are on the right track when I get to many bumps while walking our road. That happens because it is the right one. When things come too easily, they go to easily as well. That we get those bumps to push us to our limits and realise our true potencial. 

With this said, I'm looking forward to the other half of the year. I know there have been too many bad things happening in the world - I mean...Donald Trump for example? - but we should stay positive. We can be the positive change we need in our lives. And there is a J.K.Rowling quote that always spoke to my heart : 

And that is in fact true. All we have to do is believe in ourselves and work harder. It can be tough but later, when you finally get there you'll realise that it was worth it. You'll value it with all of your heart and spirit. So be Brave, be Bright and most importantly, be the Light of your own live. 

(from Left to Right : Benefit Sugarbomb; Benefit Coralista ; Soap and Glory Peach Party ; Aritaum  Sugarball Velvet in 03 ; Aritaum Sugarball Velvet in 04 ; Bourjois Cream Blush in 02 ) 

( from left to right : Nars Orgasm ; Clinique Cheek Pop in Berry Pop ; Soap and Glory Love at First Blush ; Bourjois Cream Blush in 03 Tea Rose)

Considering the more pink side, I see I can get more ( actually I shouldn't...but hoarding blushes is such a interesting thing...). Anyway, the first option had obviously to be the cult-favourite Nars Orgasm - seriously, it is indeed a gorgeous blush. It is one of those that looks pretty with any type of look. 

But to be honest, one of my favourite options had been the Clinique Cheek Pop in Berry Pop, which makes me think why Cliniques doesn't release these babies in my country. The formula is just beautiful - it looks creamy but it isn't. And looks amazing on the skin, holding itself for more than 8 hours (which is a win). 

The Soap and Glory Love at First Blush is the pink brother of the Peach Party I talked previously. I like to wear this little guy on it's own or on top of a matte blush as an highlighter. If you are looking for an affordable version of the cult-favourite Shimmer Bricks, this is an option to consider. 

Lastly but not least at all, the Bourjois Cream Blush in Tea Rose was the first blush I got from the range - it's a gorgeous everyday pink that gives a really healthy glow to the cheeks. Again, the cream-to-powder formula is amazing and totally worth to check. 

And these are my blush options for the Summer. I might not do this type of post for eyeshadows because I tend to gravitate to the same shades - neutrals and pinks. But I might do one regarding nail polishes (mostly essie since it is what my collection has the most right now). 

I'm also thinking about doing some book-related posts and more lifestyle related posts...would you guys like that idea? 

Thank you very much for reading! And if you have blush recommendations feel free to share them! 

I have been wondering about the right time to talk about these guys, mostly because I'm planing on getting some of the nude and pink shades in the future ( not in the nearest to be honest). With the craze surrounding liquid lipsticks, it wouldn't take too much time until to Korean brands release their own version. Etude House had already launched a version - tints that could be worn as lipsticks if we wanted, the Color Lips-Fit - but after a while they just launched the Color in Liquid Lips range with a enormous shade range and multiple seasonal and limited edition shades from time to time ( they have a green version for the spring time for example!!!). 

The packaging is like most of the products from Etude House a true dream to watch. Every detail is thought - it is appealing and user friendly because I want find what colour I am choosing very easily since it is shown. Yes it is plastic. Just like 85% of the packaging that other liquid lipsticks own, And even the boxes are cute!! I always have issues with this because I always feel compelled to order them inside a drawer I have. I just think it is too bad to trash out something so pretty like this. 

They aren't matte completely matte. In my opinion they held a satin finish - something like the amplified finish some MAC lipsticks have. Still, it is comfortable to the lips and really easy to apply. 

When you live in a country were 70% of days consist of sunshine you tend to think  little about it. Although I shall mention that people should be careful with the UV radiation, no matter where they live and how much sun there it. Did you know that fog does not protect you from getting a sun burn?

But still, I had a terrible love-hate relationship with Sunblocks. They would be either too white, too gressy or they wouldn't work with make up no matter what I would do. I mean, it's quite frustrating to be honest because in the end, I want to protect my self but also be able to look the best I want. 

With that in mind I decided it would be a good idea to research for the perfect sunblock. A friend of mine that also is in love with Korean and Japanese beauty talked with me about the Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence Sunblock and let me tell you...it is one of the best purchases I have done in my life. 

This Sunblock has SPF50+  with PA++++ which is probably one of the strongest you can get. I have fair complexion so I need to use something high...unless I want to be the long-lost cousin of Mr.Krabs...which I really don't want to. I once got a terrible sunburn on my back and scalp and I swore I would never get something like that. In terms of  texture this product is just pure perfection. It has a watery, kind-of gellish , texture which is super easy to blend into the skin. It does not leave a white cast on the fast or a greasy feel to the skin.
Because this contains Hyaluronic Acid, it also helps with keeping my skin hydrated. What does this means? It means I don't get oily around my T-Zone as easily as normally would. ( I have dehydrated skin so, anything that has Hyaluronic Acid is my best friend).

Overall, this is probably the holy grail of holy grail sunblocks. But if you can't get this for some reason, I would recommend you trying out Missha's new Sunblock line (with those really cute animals on it), Etude House's Sunprise line or Bioderma's Photoderm Line which isn't too greasy. Khiel's also has a very kick-ass sunblock that doesn't mess up the make up or feels too greasy. Bottom line is : protect yourself. Skin Cancer isn't something we would take on a light weight.
Do you guys have any recommendation for a good Sunblock for me to try out? This one will probably run out before the Summer time so, I'm already checking for a replacement.
Thank for reading and take care! Protection is a must-do!