Bobbi Brown City Collection

It's one thing when your kids make you feel old, it's quite another when you realise that Bobbi Brown is 25 this year. The brand, not the woman. Obvs. The City Collection Palettes, released to celebrate the anniversary, are quite possibly my favourite release of hers in all that time. Each palette is adorned with illustrations of the city in question by fashion designer-turned-illustrator Richard Haines. And they are lovely.

There are usually a couple of standouts when collections like this are released. In this case all three palettes are great, with a mix of really wearable colours. 

PARIS

Paris is two mattes, two shimmers and French Pink blush.

NEW YORK

New York is possibly the most 'daytime', with three mattes and one light, golden shimmer shadow. The blush is Tawny.

LONDON

Not being biased, but London, with the inclusion of the Rich Navy eye shadow and Nectar Blush just steals it for Best in Show.

There are three Limited Edition Long-Wear Gel Eyeliners and three new Luxe Lip Colors, Parisien Red being the winner.

The City Collection is exclusive to Harrods and available here. The must-have palettes are £45.00, Gel Eyeliners £19.00 and Lips £25.00.

Bobbi Brown Instant Detox and Skin Nourish Face Masks

Earlier this year Bobbi Brown launched additional face masks to their range, which already offers one of the better selections of skincare from what is essentially a makeup brand. The two don't always co-exist nicely, but in this case, there are numerous products in the Bobbi skincare that I use frequently, and hold their own when up against 'skincare' brands. 

The Instant Detox and Skin Nourish masks are the ones that I gravitated towards, giving the perfect book-ends to a Sunday Facial.

Instant Detox is in a base of amazonian white clay, and suitable for most skins. If you were particularly sensitive I would avoid the cheeks and patch test. I found it to be perfectly comfortable and not tight or drying.

The Skin Nourish mask is lovely. It's an obvious last step if you're doing my Sunday Facial/multi-step facial as it's the moisturising element that you can leave on or even sleep in. This is great if you're perpetually dry/dehydrated or just dull and lifeless. Hydration is the quickest fix for those skins. 

Both of these reviews would have gone into more detail had it been possible to source the ingredients online, but where Bobbi Brown shows that it is truly a makeup brand, is in their complete lack of ingredients and transparency when it comes to the information they provide when talking about their skincare. 

Nowhere online, including my usual trustworthy Sephora, lists the ingredients of these products. Not one list, anywhere.

I would go on about it, but I feel like we've been here so many times before, that if the brands don't care, and the retailers don't care, then why do I keep going to the trouble of tracking them down myself? I have used the phrase 'list your ingredients' in 78 posts on this blog.

Brands: It shouldn't be left to bloggers and Beautypedia to type out your ingredients for your customers. 

#listyouringredients 

Bobbi Brown's masks are £33.00 and available from JohnLewis/Selfridges and BobbiBrown.co.uk - they're lovely to use - just don't ask me what's in them.

*For the record, Charlotte Tilbury lists the ingredients of the Goddess Skin Clay Mask (also in the picture) in full on her website and will get a full review this week on the blog.

Instagram Update

I know a lot of you aren't on Instagram (you should be, it's brilliant!). But: I spend so much time on there showing products and my routines that I thought I'd try and keep regular updates showing anything beauty-related on here also. I'll use it as a precursor to the reviews that follow the trialling. 

Clinique discontinued the Mild Clarifying Lotion and replaced it with the 1.0 Clarifying Lotion. Comparison coming on the blog this week.* It's still alcohol-free, don't panic.

Pixi showed their newness including the already-seen Glow Tonic To-Go and brand new Lash Nourish Makeup Remover Pads. 

I used up the goop eye cream and the Murad Hydro-Dynamic Ultimate Moisture*. The NeoStrata Smooth Surface Pads and Bionic Face Serum* also work brilliantly.

Hair:

Davines OI All in One Milk is beautiful. Nourishes, softens, smooths. Brilliant.

Bumble & Bumble Full Potential is to be used on the scalp to promote hair growth. So far so good.

Ouai Hair Oil is new but lush so far. I've loved everything I've tried from this brand.

Philip B Russian Amber Imperial Conditioning Creme is beyond prohibitively expensive, and once this one has gone I don't now if I can justify a new one, but for my knackered, broken hair from last year, I was willing to try anything. 

SHOW Beauty Working Texture Spray is awesomesauce and not new to any of you. Yes, I'm still using it. Probably always will.

Time Bomb Strike a Pose hairspray is new, but good.

Simple's new cleansing products coming soon. 

Omorovicza's beautiful Queen of Hungary Mist is out in a divine Limited Edition bottle.

Hourglass are releasing this insanely gorgeous Surreal Light Palette in time for Christmas. And yes, that is a marble design. 

Mask therapy in the form of:

• Bobbi Brown Instant Detox Mask* for a nice deep clean.
• Charlotte Tilbury's Goddess Skin Clay Mask* is softer and better for a slightly more delicate skin.
• Zelens PHA Pads are poly-hydroxy pads so allow products used after them, especially water-based ones, to absorb easily. Brilliant.
• Bobbi Brown Skin Nourish Mask* is soft, hydrating and the perfect nourishing mask to finish a Sunday facial. It's also clearly popular as it's sold out nearly everywhere.

My Spanish travel bag - skincare:

• Emma Hardie Moringa Balm Travel Size goes everywhere with me. Like a puppy. :)
• Josh Rosebrook Moisturizing Cleanser was the perfect size and thankfully, washed off well, because I forgot my flannels. *kill me now*
• Radical Skincare Age-Defying Exfoliating Pads are great at any time, but perfect for travel in the ziplock bag. 
• Josh Rosebrook Hydrating Accelerator* is really lovely. So much more than just a 'spritz'.
• Environ C-Quence Eye Gel is light, hydrates and absorbs well - which is ideal for humid conditions.
• Vintner's Daughter Active Botanical Serum is still one of my favourites. One-size-fits-all serum for all. A must-have.
• Dr Dennis Gross Skincare Firming Peptide Milk is super-lightweight and full of peptides and actives making it much more than a simple moisturising lotion.

Spanish SPF:

• Zelens Body Defence* was perfect for the trip. Light, absorbs immediately and worked. No burning for me.
• Kate Somerville Daily Deflector SPF50* is brilliant. I took it with me to Barcelona (work, not play) and use it on client's skin at the end of facials, post-peel.
• Phyto Phyto Plage Sun Oil is great - I've used it for years. 

Body travel bag for Spain:

• Hand Chemistry Hyaluronic Body Mist is the perfect moisturiser for hot climates. It almost disappears on contact and leaves you completely ready to get dressed with no stickiness.
• Sachajuan Hair Repair is one of the best hair conditioners/treatments I've ever used. Really, really, good. And this travel size was perfect for throwing in my case.
• Kerastase Resistance Ciment Thermique has been around for years, and I am still doing everything I can to help the breakage!
• Bumble & Bumble Full Potential as above.
• Studio Pro Lock It hairspray because bun hair needs all the help it can get in that humidity.

And yesterday's face!

• Environ C-Quence Eye Gel again 
• Beuti Beauty Sleep Elixir* - this contains 14 oils and is 98% organic for those of you obsessed with green. Loving it. 
• Kat Burki Vitamin C Intensive Face Cream - I'm loving this range. Literally everything I've used it fantastic.

*Reviews coming this week. ADDITION 29.07.16 - Sorry the reviews didn't happen this week, they are in order and next on the blog. When I can breathe.

I sometimes (not always) use affiliate links. If you are happy to click on the link and support this blog in that way, thank you very much. If you would prefer not to, just google the brand and the item, it's all cool. :)
For absolute clarity: I do not use affiliate links on products belonging to brands that I work with on a professional basis.

Bobbi Brown Pro Online

Just a small queue at the Bobbi stand on Friday. 

Well this is very exciting for Pro/Student Makeup artists. Bobbi Brown are moving their pro discount programme online. You can now apply online, send back supporting documents to validate your credentials electronically and shop online to receive your discount.

The discount is 35% for Make-up Artists, Industry Professionals and 20% for Students. The Pro discount can be redeemed on bobbibrown.co.uk or at Free Standing Bobbi Brown Stores. The discount will not work in department stores.

I picked up these Pro Palettes on Friday at IMATs - if you're going today remember that these are massively reduced for the event. 

To see if you qualify for the pro status there is more info here: www.bobbibrown.co.uk/qualifiying

Apply here: http://www.bobbibrown.co.uk/bobbi-pro

IMATS London 2016 Buys

I went to IMATS this year with a list. I've lost out so many times in previous years by being distracted talking to friends that I literally always come home thinking 'I wish I'd bloody bought that.'
This year I had three things on my list - all of which I did get hold of, but I also bought some extras - as you do.
First stop was Hakuhodo. The Rolls-Royce of brushes and the only ones I hadn't yet bought. I usually use a mixture of Royal & Langnickel, Real Techniques, Charlotte Tilbury and Zoeva for day-to-day and some coveted older Shu Uemura brushes that Ive had for over 20 years. I tend to keep those to look at now, sad as I am.
The Hakuhodo stand is completely non-descript, it's all about the product. They don't need the pomp & ceremony. A quiet, long line of people ooh-ing and aah-ing and stroking the brushes. And what beauties they are. I only bought two. I decided to be sensible and go for two shapes that I use every day. The larger B100 will do for powder/highlighter and the smaller G503 is blush/contour.

Viseart had been on my list since Kevin James Bennett raved about them on his FB group. They're his first choice for eyeshadows and when it comes to makeup, there is nothing KJB does not know. The man sticks his finger in a palette and tells you what lab it was made in and who else bought the same product off the shelf. Viseart are handmade in Paris and the quality is insane. The colours above are Cashmere (6 pan), Paris Nudes Eye Palette 06 (top) and Neutral Matte Eye Palette 01 at the bottom.
They're available in the UK from LoveMakeup.co.uk.

Kevin's favourite concealer is Makeup Atelier Paris's Waterproof Liquid Corrector and Concealer - I picked up two to mix the shades - the teeniest amount gives an insane amount of coverage and it does not budge. At all. Perfect for redness, breakouts, scarring. And the best part? It's £12.50 normally and only £8.00 at IMATS. GO GO GO.

The beautiful Louise Young has been in the industry for over 30 years and has great brushes and product - either in a palette or as singles. Must-haves include the foundation brushes LY34, LY48 and the LY51A buffing brush. Available from PAM Makeup and LouiseYoung.co.uk

This Nanshy set is great for everyday basics. Without doubt the brushes I use the most are face, of all shapes, sizes and 'roles'. These are perfect for that. Also vegan for those of you on the lookout. Available here: nanshy.com/gobsmack-glamorous-pearlescent-white

Screenface were selling off these leather brush rolls for £5.00 so I bought two. I can't find them anywhere online so I think these were end of line and they were just selling them off.

I grabbed this Charles Fox brush in "Big Mama' for face masks, not body paint.

I picked up a small Get-Set-Go bag - primarily to hold my everyday favourite makeup so I can do my face around the house depending on who is asleep/around/annoying me just by grabbing one bag. Anything to save me going back and forth from the bathroom to the bedroom to the kitchen carrying everything in my hands. Available here from Screenface: screenface.co.uk/get-set-go-bag

The Kryolan Brush Roll is perfect for travel - especially if I'm putting some in my hold luggage and I want them to stay intact and not get squashed. On arrival you break it in two and use them as holders. Perfect.

Bobbi Brown BBU Pro Palettes were the third thing on my list. The lip and foundation/concealer palettes are a must-have for pros and strong 'enthusiasts'. ;)

More on these in my next post, but if you're going today, know that they are usually £190/200 and are £130 at the show. Available here: www.bobbibrown.co.uk/Palettes-and-Sets/BBU-Palette

IMATS is on today until 5pm. More info here: imats.net/2016-london

Random Round-Up No.2

Hi All!

Another week - some Instagram newness for you below amongst other updates..

Kate Somerville Official Goat Milk Statement (file under - 'things you never thought you would type'):
"We added Natural Milk Proteins to provide enhanced skin barrier function to better address the needs of those with sensitive skin.  This new formula is also clinically tested safe for sensitive skin."

A lot of you have asked if the new formula would still be in the Hall of Fame - I don't know yet is the answer (but I really hope so). I'm just working my way through the older formula and will keep you posted.

This is a brilliant super affordable body moisturiser if you're dry. Dive in. Although it has nothing to do with Norway. Odd.

Do not buy this. That is all. Forms into a rock hard square shape and pees out a little water when you try and squeeze it out. I would bin it, but it's so bad that I'm saving it for a video so you can see what I mean.

Bobbi Brown's Bali Brown Illuminating Bronzer and Charlotte Tilbury's Bronzer brush are my new addictions.

This poor love took a right bashing on Instagram for it's packaging. The upshot is that I absolutely LOVE the formula and get compliments on my skin whenever I wear it. The downside is that a great many of us find it impossible to get enough out of the dropper. Although a few readers gave us tips that had been passed on from the BB teams across counters, honestly - if you have to explain how to use a foundation bottle it may be time to rethink it no? However, formula is ace.

Chanel newness is LUSH. Very much-needed and wanted extensions to the Hydra Beauty range including the eye cream (not pictured), a lotion/essence and the Flash which is gorgeous. REALLY gorgeous.

MAC Vibe Tribe is out Mid-May and is perfect for summer skins. Well, unless it's still SNOWING in summer. Yes. It snowed today in London. 29th April. WTH?

Bobbi Brown Beach Glow Sun Kissed Pink Eye Palette was one of my most-liked pictures - you ladies do like your eyeshadows :) and these are perfectly pigmented.

Votary released a beautiful luxury gift box of flannels (face cloths) and I have more gorgeous newness to show you from Votary next week. LUSHNESS incoming.

My most-used brow pencil from Studio 10 now serves as a fundraiser for Look Good Feel Better - great news, great product. More info here: http://bit.ly/1neJlZL 

Viktor & Rolf have released BonBon in a Hair Mist. Yes it smells as good as you expect it to. 

I finally got around to really road testing the Drunk Elephant Serum that so many of you are obsessed with. Review to follow.

That Laura Mericer Body Cleanse in Tea Menthe Citron is THE perfect morning WAKEUP call.

No vlog this week - too busy with loads of work that is mostly for clients and thus confidential - will keep you posted - more blog posts coming though so YAY!

Bobbi Brown Extra Balm Rinse

Keeping with the cleanser theme, I am also enjoying this surprisingly thick balm from the Brown that is Bobbi. I have the tube version and am already convinced that it will be a permanent fixture in my travel bag. I'm investing in the tub purely because we all know how enamoured I am with a big fat pot of cleanser.

What is it?

'This conditioning cleanser with a uniquely rich feel removes all traces of makeup and impurities quickly and completely. Leaves skin with a smooth, cushiony finish, and feeling instantly refreshed (thanks to its bright citrus scent).'

A thick, luxurious balm cleanser for the rest of us. :)

Who is it for?

All skin types but particularly suited to those with a drier or dehydrated skin.

What’s in it?

Glycerin, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Limonene, Polyglyceryl-10 Behenate/Eicosadioate, Glyceryl Behenate/Eicosadioate, Polyglyceryl-3 Beeswax, PEG-10 Sunflower Glycerides, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil, Polydecene, Beta Carotene, Potassium Stearate, Benzyl Alcohol, Linalool, Anise Alcohol, Citronellol, Aminomethyl Propanediol

Possibly acne/allergy/troubling for some ingredients?

limonene

essential oil

Natural? Organic? Man made? Vegan?

Bit of both. And contains beeswax, so not vegan.

Tested on animals/sold in China?

No/Yes*

What's not in it?

mineral oil

synthetic fragrance

How do you use it?

A number of ways. As a mask on particularly dry skin or as a cleanser. Whether you use it as a first or second cleanse in the evening, or a morning cleanse, this absolutely needs a face cloth to remove. There's no splashing here.

What’s good about it?

I like the consistency. It cleanses very well, removes makeup well and is a great massage cleanser. It gives good grip and very little slip. :) The glycerin and olive oil are a good, softening, removal team.

What’s not so good about it?

It's possibly too thick for really oily/acne skins, but the lack of shea butter and mineral oil means I wouldn't rule it out entirely.

Where to use in your routine?

As above, AM or PM and first or second cleanse.

Similar products?

Emma Hardie, Alpha-H, Elemis, Suti, Balance Me, OSKIA and REN all make similar products.

Sizes available?

50ml - £20.00

200ml - £45.00

Available from www.bobbibrown.co.uk/Extra-Balm-Rinse

*I am asked after nearly every post why I mention China and the answer is thus: in its simplest form, animal testing is banned in the EU and has been for years, but the Chinese authorities 'reserve the right' to test any product sold in China on animals to ensure safety for the Chinese people. It's outdated and unnecessary and a lot of brands are working behind the scenes to change their minds. So whilst a brand may be against testing, the wider thinking is that if they sell in China, they are endorsing testing 'where required by law'. That's why I mention China.

Quick Smokey Eye with Hannah from Bobbi Brown

After Hannah and the team had finished filming the video last week, I told asked her to stick around and give me a full smokey eye - which happily, she did!

It's really quick, unlike our first video LOL.

Hope you enjoy!

This video is not sponsored. It's just an added extra I asked Hannah to do.