Dior Addict Lacquer Plump ~ My Latest Obsession

After 2 years of wearing almost exclusively matte lips, I'm happy to say I've moved on. I never thought I would see the day that I was excited for glossy lips, but here I am. Even more shocking is that I've basically only been wearing the new Dior Addict Lacquer Plump - specifically 868 J'adior.

I have commitment issues when it comes to makeup, so when I wear the same brand, product and shade for more than a day, you know it's gotta be good great!

"It's a fascinating formula innovation. We have succeeded in pushing the limits of shine and extreme colour in various effects with a comforting lip care formula and an ultra fluid texture that you forget is there. Thanks to a lightweight texture, exactly the right quantity is intuitively applied to the lips in one sweep." 

-Peter Philips

Dior Addict Lacquer Plump is a lacquered lip ink that not only colours the lips with long wearing colour, it plumps the lips too. This miracle in a tube (my term) shapes, smooths, plumps and adds dimensional colour all while caring for my lips. Now you see why I call it a miracle! Plus it's available in 16 shades ranging from classics to neons and glitters.

Before I get into the nitty gritty, I have to fangirl over the packaging a bit. The tube is traditional Dior but the labelling is truly stunning.

"The packaging was designed to give place of pride to colour with a Dior signature that emphasizes each of the sparkling shades."

- Peter Philips

Luxe packaging aside, the formula is where it's at. If you're anything like me, when you hear glossy you automatically think sticky. That is my biggest qualm with glossy lips and I'm so happy that there is no stickiness to Dior Addict Lacquer Plump. Literally none. They have such a unique feel to them that reminds me of vinyl - smooth and surprisingly comfortable. I can feel it on my lips, but not in a bad way. I actually really like the feel of these.

According to Dior, 24 hours after application, lip hydration levels climb by 78% thanks to an oil and water emulsion that's infused with hibiscus extract and hyaluronic acid.

The plumping effect is noticeable immediately. The lines in my lips are filled and they look deliciously full - something I desperately need. I have noticed that these can bleed a bit, although it's not consistent, so I think it has more to do with what other products I'm wearing.

I've basically just started lining my lips with the bolder shades, just in case. Wear time is quite impressive (4-6 hours) and the transfer is minimal. They also leave behind a stain that I really like.

If I'm being honest the glitter shades of Lacquer Plump, although gorgeous, don't perform quite as well. They're not uncomfortable, but I can definitely feel the glitter. And they fade kind of weird and patchy. If I eat or drink, I'm going to need to reapply. After a few hours I need to reapply. A pain in the ass but worth it because they are really pretty.

You can find Dior Addict Lacquer Plump at Sephora, sephora.ca , Hudson's Bay, thebay.com and Dior counters nationwide.

*pr samples were generously provided for editorial consideration. As always, all opinions are my own.

Dior Cool Wave Summer 2018 ~ Review + Swatches

It's been a long time since I fell in love with a makeup collection. The beauty community is saturated with new releases, and rarely are they overly awe inspiring. Obviously I buy into the hype, but I haven't felt any sort of way until Dior released their Glow Addict Collection for spring 2018 (review here). And then came the sneak peaks for their summer collection.

The heat of the sun and an indigo pool, the clash between hot and cold, sensuality fusing with the skin.

Dior's Cool Wave Collection encompasses the best of summer. Beautiful blues tease excitement of early summer dips in the pool, while the bronze hues are reminiscent of late summer drinks on a patio. This seasons 5 Couleurs Palettes features a pattern inspired by the ripple of a drop hitting the surface of the water.

Splashed with Cool Down, a harmonious combination of blues, the eyes show off a free, sun-drenched femininity. Turqoise, midnight-blue, pastel blue and denim tones blend easily together and offer a surprisingly natural contrast with the golden glow of summer skin.

5 Couleurs 367 Cool Down* ($73) is a real beauty! The top two shades are designed for day looks, while the bottom two are reserved for more intense, or evening, looks. Like all 5 Couleurs, the shadow formula is pigmented, long wearing and versatile. To amp up the pigment, I like to apply it wet, over primer. It's important to note that the top right shade is sheer and is more of a highlighter shade. This palette is surprisingly wearable and so different from what we've seen in eyeshadow palettes lately. If you like blue, then you will love this!

On the other side, the sun shines bright on Heat Up, the palette of luminous brown, coral and nude shades.

5 Couleurs 597 Heat Up is a warm toned, summer dream come true! This gorgeous palette is everything - and then some! The shades suit my fair skin now and they will look even better once I get my faux tan on. The shadows are super buttery and the looks I can get out of it are pure love 😍

Diorshow Cooling Stick* ($41) is a splash on the eyes. This waterproof eyeshadow is available in three shades (001 Bronze Wave, 002 Gold Splash and 003 Fresh Pink) and can be used as a liner or allover shadow.

It's hard to describe the feel of this shadow. It's creamy but not so creamy that you couldn't use it as a liner. When applied there is an instant feeling of freshness and coolness - perfect for my tired eyes! I reach for this when I'm low on time and want a simple but beautiful eye look. Freshness aside, the best feature of Diorshow Cooling Stick is how well and long it wears for - I can get a whole days wear without primer! And when it's time to remove, a simple swipe with eye makeup remover is all it takes.

A concentrate of Dior and a palette in summer shades. Standing out from the crowd thanks to its hydra-gel core, Dior Addict Lipstick embraces an epicurean season with essential colours: an effervescent orange, a bronze nude, a sensual coral a graceful pink, a dizzying fuchsia and a blue-toned shimmery shade.

Dior Addict Lipstick in 040 White Splash* ($44)   is such a fun lipstick! It offers the shine of a gloss with the comfort and feel of a lipstick. The blue undertones make my teeth appear whiter and it clashes delightfully with my faux tanned skin. Plus it's super pretty to look at!

Dior's Lip Maximizer* ($42) has been my go to lip plumper for years. It shines like a gloss and fills in my lip lines causing my lips to appear smoother. This is what gives off the appearance of a youthful pout. The Cool Wave collection sees the Lip Maximizer we know and love get an icy blue makeover! Don't worry though - it doesn't look blue on the lips. Sure, it has a slight blue tone when applied, just enough to make my teeth look whiter, but not enough to make my lips look blue. If you want a non-sticky, glossy lip that looks full (sans the burning feeling) then you need to try Dior's Lip Maximizer.

A tattoo finish lip ink with a no-transfer and an extreme 10 hour hold. Highlighting the lips natural colour, Dior Lip Tattoo brings out a luminous smile.

Dior Addict Lip Tattoo* ($37) has been a favourite of mine, so naturally I got excited when I learned that they were adding some summer exclusives. Just like the original, Dior's Lip Tattoo provides a beautiful tint that doesn't dry out my lips. 571 Cranberry is a stunning rosewood shade that looks and smells delightful. Lip Tattoo has a very watery feel to it that just feels good - especially on a hot summer day. I'm all about no-fuss, comfortable lippies these days and I love stains for their ease of use. I definitely don't get 10 hours wear out of these, closer to 5 or 6, but that's totally fine by me!

"For a summer synonymous with playfulness and freedom, I wanted to come out with a collection of bright nail colours that women can use to express their creativity and personality." - Peter Philips

Enriched with a pearly shimmer that catches the sunlight, sexy like a bikini and fun like a pop song. Dior Vernis ($34) rounds out the Cool Wave collection exquisitely. I was able to get my hands on 404 Splash from Beauty Boutique and I am so glad it did - this shade is stunning!

I am so smitten with Dior's Cool Wave Collection and I'm trying so hard not to buy the whole damn thing. If you like what you see, then you need to run (not walk) before it's gone for good.

You can find Dior's Cool Wave Collection in store and online at thebay.com , Shoppers Drug Mart and beautyboutique.com and at Dior counters nationwide.

*This post features a mix of pr samples and products purchased by me. PR samples are marked with an asterisk. As always, all opinions are my own.

New in Dior ~ Hydra Life

Skincare is sooooo important, especially when you have less than ideal skin. I've had my fair share of skin issues and unfortunately that doesn't seem to be changing anytime soon. I can only imagine how much worse it would be if I didn't take care of my skin.

Thanks to a long winter, my skin is incredibly dehydrated. It got bad. Really bad. I started using Dior's Capture Youth Line (you can find my review here) and it started to improve but my skin needed just a bit more hydration. I was kindly gifted some new items from Dior's Hydra Life line and I thought I would share my first impressions.

"Even More NATURE

83% natural ingredients, new (at Dior) floral active ingredients

Formulas purified of parabens, containing even less silicone"

The Dior Hydra Life routine is a minimalist dream. With only 3 steps, it's simple and very effective. What I love the most about this range is how gentle it is on my skin. I've come to realize that I have sensitive skin, and I loathe the redness I get when my skin gets angry. I've learned that in order to properly care for my skin, I need gentle products with lots of hydrating properties.

The first step in the Hydra Life routine is prep using the Life 2-in-1 Sorbet Water (175ml, $52 CAD). I haven't personally used this, so I can't comment on its efficacy. I do know that it's used after cleansing to hydrate and balance the skin. AKA toner.

After prepping the skin, it's time to hydrate with Life Intense Sorbet Rich Crème (50ml, $82).  The two star ingredients of this crème are Mallow Butter and Chamomile. Mallow Butter nourishes and strengthens the skin barrier to keep water in cells while Chamomile helps to calm irritation. It can be applied daily or as a night mask during times of high sensitivity (changing seasons, stress, etc). This cream is great for dehydrated skin to soothe, soften and strengthen. It's like a tall drink of water for your skin!

Life Intense Sorbet Rich Crème is a delightful shade of baby blue that has a very fun texture. It feels exactly as you would expect it to; creamy yet light and reminiscent of sorbet. When initially applied it feels cooling and very refreshing. With the sorbet crème texture I was expecting it to sit on my face but it didn't, it sank right in. My skin feels instantly hydrated without feeling heavy or greasy. The feeling of hydration is long lasting too. This is going to be my fall-winter cream.

The final step is to awaken the look with Life Sorbet Eye Gel (15ml, $70 CAD). This eye gel has 3 star ingredients - Cornflower Water to decongest puffiness, Micronized Mineral Powders to illuminate and correct dark circles and Abyssinica Oil to nourish, protect and strengthen lashes and eyebrows. The Sorbet Eye Gel also has a ceramic applicator to give an ice cube effect.

I've said it before and I'll say it again; eye care is important! I started using eye cream in my very early 20's and it shows. When it comes to eye cream I'm picky. It has to be hydrating but not so much that it causes an excess of milia and it has to be gentle. Life Sorbet Eye Gel fits the bill and then some.

Out of all the 'cooling' applicators I've tried (and I've tried many) this one takes the cake! The ceramic tip is so cold and refreshing setting the stage perfectly for the eye gel, which is equally as cool and refreshing. I've been into lymphatic massage lately and this applicator makes it easy plus it feels so good. 

No skincare routine is complete without makeup removal. There are two new cleansers; Life Micellar Milk No Rinse Cleanser (200ml, $49 CAD) and Life Triple Impact Makeup Remover (125ml, $42 CAD). I have been using the Triple Impact Makeup Remover, a bi-phase solution that removes heavier makeup on sensitive areas of the skin. The key ingredients in this makeup remover are Lily Extract to make the lashes appear more beautiful and a licorice-based ingredient to soothe the eye contour.

Life Triple Impact Makeup Remover is an effective eye makeup remover, but it's no different than any other. It removes regular eye makeup easily, but I still find myself having to wipe and wipe and wipe away waterproof mascara. I will say that it leaves my skin and lashes feeling super soft, but I can't justify the price tag. I like it, but I don't see myself purchasing it in the future.

You can find Dior's Hydra Life in store and online at sephora.ca, at Hudson's Bay and thebay.com and at Dior counters nationwide.

*press samples were generously provided for editorial consideration. As always, all opinions are my own.

Dior Capture Youth

Yesterday is over.

Tomorrow is too late.

The time is now.

A motto: take action now - no regrets. The Dior skincare (r)evolution is here! Dior science has taken inspiration from modern medicine, to delay signs of aging before they appear. So instead of only treating the damage done, Dior's Capture Youth is actively preventing future damage - before it even shows up!

Take action now. Anticipate, control and maximize the youthfulness of our skin. A selection of the most powerful natural ingredients that are gentle on the skin, and eco designed packaging are just a few features of this line.

Each regimen is individually personalized, allowing you to cherry pick what you need and pass on what you don't. At the heart of this range is Dior Capture Youth Age-Delay Advanced Crème ($120, 50ml) an ultra prevention crème that helps to delay visible signs of aging. Formulated with Iris Florentina (an antioxidant) to stimulate the skins internal resistance process. Capture Youth Age-Delay Advanced Crème deeply nourishes the skin, leaving it retexturized and toned.

I didn't think it was possible to fall so deeply in love with a facial cream, until now. This crème to me is what PB is to jelly, what a bee is to honey... But seriously though - it's a must have! The texture is lightweight and smooth, yet deeply hydrating. My skin was in a bad place when I started using this. It was dry, dehydrated and suffering all kinds of nightmare breakouts. Now, it's hydrated, soothed and with no painful breakouts. I have gotten a few whiteheads, but that's normal for me. My bank is dreading the day this crème runs out because I don't think I can live without it!

To make the most out Dior's Capture Youth Age-Delay Advanced Crème, you should need to pair it with their Targeted Expert Serums. There are 5 serums to choose from, and you can use as many (or as few) as you want. In order to maximize efficacy, you should limit it to 2 serums at a time to suit the skins needs. If you have multiple skin concerns, make sure to divide them into a morning and a night routine.  For example, I use Plump Filler + Redness Soother in the morning, and Plump Filler + Lift Sculptor (or Glow Booster) in the evening.

After you've selected your serum(s) you can decide your application method.

1. Layering

   Apply the serum, then the crème

     ‎

     2. Mix & Match

     Mix 2 to 3 drops of serum directly in the crème (in the palm of your hand)

             3. Intensive Treatment

     Apply a serum then the crème for 30 days as a cure when the skin is particularly stressed                     (change of seasons/skin issues/repeated irritation)

As I mentioned earlier, there are 5 serums to choose from and they're all priced the same ($120)

Glow Booster Illuminating Serum. Restore Radiance - Vitamin C 

100 times more concentrated in vitamin C than oranges, Murunga Plum combined with AHA combine to brighten the complexion and to even skin texture irregularities.

The Plump Filler Plumping Serum - Hyaluronic Acid

Three different weights of botanical hyaluronic acid from fermented wheat hydrates and replenishes the skin to make it appear fuller and more supple. Ideal as an intensive treatment (in winter) or to fight against environmental stressors (dryness, sun)

The Lift Sculptor Lifting Serum

Sculpt + Lift - Polyphenols

Polyphenols derived from a tea blend (green & white) boost elastin production to visibly lift and sculpt the skin for firmer, more defined skin contours.

The Redness Soother Anti-Redness Soothing Serum

Natural peptides from cotton reduce redness and irritation for a smoother, more even complexion . The ideal anti-aggressor shield it calms and relieves irritated and sensitized skin.

The Matte Maximizer Mattifying Serum

Matte + Refine + Lactic Acid (for oily skin)

Lactic acid derived from sugar cane regulates excess sebum to help reduce shine and refine pores. A soft focus matte blur and complexion refiner.

My typical morning Capture Youth routine is super fast and incredibly effective. I typically skip washing my face in the am (just a quick rinse with water) and dive right into Capture Youth Plump Filler. I add two drops to my hands and apply it directly onto my face. It has a light scent and my skin drinks it up right away. After a minute or so, I spot treat my cheeks with a drop of Redness Soother and then mix another drop into Capture Youth and apply all over (eye area too). My skin is instantly hydrated and my face looks calm. I'm not going to lie and say that my redness vanishes into thin air, but it's certainly reduced.

In the evening, I remove my makeup and wash my face with Dior Hydra Life Lotion to Foam Fresh Cleanser ($49, 190 ml) apply Plump Filler all over (same method as am) and then follow with 2 drops of Lift Sculptor. I do this four days a week. The other 3 days I swap out Lift Sculptor for Glow Booster and follow with Capture Youth Age-Delay Advanced Crème. After using this combo for a few weeks I have to admit that my skin is looking pretty darn good. I started to notice an ever so slight slackening of skin around my jaws (yikes x 1000) and this has pretty much froze it in time. I'm glad I caught it,  and I hope that it will delay any further slackening. When I use Glow Booster I notice an immediate radiance - one that lasts! I prefer to use it at night since it is an AHA - in case you weren't aware, they make your skin so much more sensitive to sun. Even though I use it at night, it's still on my face the next day so I make sure to load up on sunscreen. Always, and I mean always wear sunscreen when you use AHA's!

One of the most common complaints I hear from people is the heavy 'scent' of certain products. I personally enjoy a nice scent, but so many people don't. With Dior products, you will notice that they have a natural/botanical scent to them. DO NOT BE ALARMED! These scents are naturally occurring and they will not harm sensitive skin. People mistakenly believe that all scents are added and that 'scent free' is better and that's not always the case. A Dior Pro explained it this way: coffee beans naturally contain caffeine. In order to make them decaf, the beans need to be processed - often chemically - to remove it. This is not natural, and it's over-processed. Dior does not process their products to remove their natural scents. Doesn't seem so bad now, does it?

Oh and I almost forgot! Dior has revamped their packaging to be more eco-friendly. Long gone are the cardboard inserts and cellophane sleeves. Dior is aiming to use as little as they can when packaging their products. And their inks are vegetable based!

In in love with this line - 100% and I know that you will be too. If you can only choose one product, go with the Capture Youth Age-Delay Advanced Crème  If you can get 2, add in a Glow Booster Serum and thank me later 😉

You can find the Capture Youth Range in store & online at sephora.ca in store at Shoppers Drug Mart & online at beautyboutique.ca in store & online at thebay.com and Holt Renfrew & holtrenfrew.com

*pr samples were generously provided to me for editorial consideration. As always, all opinions are my own.

Diorskin Forever Undercover Foundation ~ Review + Swatches

Hello beauties! Today I'm talking about foundation and Dior, specifically the new Diorskin Forever Undercover Foundation. Before I get into my thoughts, let's take a look at the facts and the claims.

First up, the facts! Diorskin Forever Undercover ($64) is a water based formula that contains the highest level of pigments in the entire range; nearly twice that of the original fluid foundation. To avoid a mask like effect, the pigments are given a specific coating (plant based) to merge with the skin, providing an imperceptible finish.

And now the claims. Diorskin Forever Undercover is said to be an ultra-high coverage foundation that looks natural and wears for 24hrs of extreme correction.

First of all, the finish. In a word, heavenly! I can't get over how this foundation balances full coverage with a natural finish. It's matte yet somehow radiant, and my skin looks perfect. Literally perfect. And the best part is that it's completely undetectable (so long as you find a shade match).

I love how Diorskin Forever Undercover doesn't set right away; you have ample time to blend and adjust your coverage. To achieve a higher level of coverage, Peter Philips recommends applying with a foundation brush. 

As far as wear time, I will say that it's long wearing, but not 24hr wearing (at least not for me). I've tried it with primer, on its own, set with powder plus setting spray and I can't get longer than 8 hours out of it. I will say that it fades gracefully and evenly.

All in all I really like this foundation but...

The shade range (although better) is still very lacking. There are 24 shades that are mostly neutral toned. So those who are very fair or deep will likely have a hard time finding a match, as will anyone with a very warm or cool undertone.

In order for me to wear this foundation in the winter, I need to mix it. Even then, it's not perfect. I'm pretty pale with a yellow undertone. I tried Shade 015 Tender Beige as it was the lightest, most warm toned neutral shade, but it was still too pink. The lightest yellow based shade is 021 Linen and that's too dark for me right now. 023 Peach is too orange. Everything in between is too neutral or pink. In order for me to make this foundation work, I mix shade 015 with a touch of 021, add a couple drops of MAKE UP FOR EVER Chromatic Mix in 02 (review on those here). 

The good news is that shade 21 will definitely work once I get my faux tan on 😉

Do I recommend this foundation? Hells ya if you can find a match! The finish is one of the best I've ever tried. I seriously hope that they add some more shades/undertones to the range.

You can find Diorskin Forever Undercover in-store and online at sephora.com

*pr samples were generously provided for editorial consideration. As always, all opinions are my own.

Dior Glow Addict Collection ~ Spring 2018

Hello beauties! Although it certainly doesn't feel like it, spring is around the corner! Today I'm sharing my thoughts on some items from Dior's spring makeup collection. Next week, I'll be sharing my first impressions on new Dior skincare (you definitely don't want to miss that 😉)

Anyone who knows me, knows that I have a weakness for eyeshadow - especially pretty, embossed shadow. Dior knows how to create beautiful palettes and that's a problem for me. Why? Because I don't end up using it. No I'm not joking, and I know it sounds silly. Fortunately for you (and me too), I was recently gifted the new 5 Couleurs Glow Addict Palette in 887 Thrill to review, so I had to use it. Before I begin my review, let's just admire the beauty of this palette 😍

The Glow Addict Edition: 5 Couleurs - Spring Look 2018 Limited Edition High Fidelity Colors & Effects Eyeshadow Palette ($73) is available in 2 variations, 667 Flirt (greyish pastel) and 887 Thrill (pinky brights). Both are stunning, and feature a Dior embossed centre as well as Gorgeous detailing on the shadows. As always, these palettes include foam applicators and a small brush.

no primer, swatched by finger

887 Thrill is beautiful beyond words! The shades work well together, and you can create day looks as well as night looks with ease. Each shade has a gorgeous shimmer to it that gives off a glowing appearance. You can build and blend them easily, to be as subtle or as dramatic as you like. My only issue is that this palette is limited edition - It should be a part of the regular lineup of 5 Couleurs!

You can't have a Glow Addict Collection without a banging highlighter, so naturally we need to talk about the Diorskin Nude Air Luminizer Powders. Available in two shades, 001 Holo Pink & 002 Holo Gold, these are what (highlighter) dreams are made of!

Diorskin Nude Air Luminizer Powder in 001 Holo Pink ($75) is not for the faint of heart. The name says it all; this highlighter is holographic! It catches the light and bounces it in such a unique and pretty way. It goes on creamy, smooth and intense. You can blend it out, but you can't really make it subtle (especially if you plan on spending any time outdoors). If you like your highlight poppin' then you need this. Just look at how direct sunlight bounces off of it...

If you've never had the pleasure of trying Dior Lip Glow, you need to go out and do that. Like now.

Dior Lip Glow ($41) was born in 2009 and combines the benefit of a slightly coloured ink, with the comfort of a balm. They're the perfect balance of lip care and makeup - plus they're so simple to apply, you don't even need a mirror! This season we see new shades and effects to suit the needs of women (and men!) worldwide. Before I get into the new finishes, let's talk a bit about the formula.

The Colour Reviver technology reacts to the PH level of the lips, to create a customized pink flush. The formula is concentrated in mango butter to provide optimal hydration for up to 24hrs. You can wear it on its own as a tinted balm or under lipstick as a hydrating base. Lip Glow has been the balm of choice for years. Did you know that one is sold every 3 seconds around the world?

Dior Lip Glow sees the addition of 10 new shades, as well as matte and holographic finishes.

"By playing around with the formula in the laboratory we found that we could create a Lip Glow with a  Matte Glow finish. It's a tinted balm with a blurring effect that enhances lips without giving the impression you're wearing makeup" Peter Philips

As a matte lipstick lover, I have to admit that I was (still am) stupid excited for this (matte) Lip Glow. I have the shade 102 Matte Raspberry and it's amazing. It reacts with my PH and turns a deep, almost berry, pink. It feels just as comfortable as the regular Lip Glow and it looks natural - I'm obsessed!

The holographic Lip Glows are phenomenal. Unlike the dewy and matte Lip Glows, these do look like makeup on. And you know what? That's totally fine! They have the most stunning iridescent finish that reflects light to bring about a shimmering radiance. The best part is that they're wearable - the holographic finish isn't over the top which means you could totally wear these to work. 

I can't recommend Dior's Lip Glow enough. If you only pick up one thing from the collection, let it be a Lip Glow - you won't be disappointed!

You can find these products in-store and online at thebay.com , sephora.com , Nordstrom and Dior Counters worldwide.

*Press samples were generously provided for editiorial consideration. As always, all opinions are my own.