NARS Cosmetics Iconic Products

Discover a selection of NARS cosmetics iconic products that have become extremely popular in most people's makeup collection. The innovative products have gained a cult following due to not only how easy they are to use, but also how they deliver on their promises when applied. Disclaimer: The products were sent to me for free, but this does not influence my opinion written in my blog post. 

NARS Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation.

Available in 36 shades, the breathable and buildable medium coverage foundation instantly blurs imperfections, smooths the look of textured skin, and helps conceal blemishes, dark spots, and redness. Including advanced skincare ingredients in the formulation also contributes in helping defend against environmental aggressors and blue light, whilst also strengthening the skin’s barrier to help maintain its moisture for better hydrated skin. Shaking the glass bottle before applying 1-2 pumps over your sunscreen or desired primer, starting at the centre of the face and using your fingertips or buffing brush, the easily spreadable foundation instantly awakens the skin, without looking cakey or feeling sticky. The vegan-friendly formula is also non-acnegenic, so won’t clog pores if you suffer with acne or spot-prone skin, and is the perfect foundation for those who are wanting a natural finish foundation with added skincare benefits, as always play around with a new foundation to see how the formula works for you and your skin type. Purchase Here: NARS Light Reflecting Advanced Skincare Foundation

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer.

Available in 30 shades, the medium and buildable formula provides hydrating, multi-action skincare benefits with light diffusing technology. Brightening, correcting, and perfecting the skin, the concealer is able to color correct imperfections (not hide), dark circles, and fatigue which can appear under the eye area and can even be used as a highlighter and contour product. Including an antioxidant-rich multi-active botanical blend of ingredients in the formula not only helps protect the skin from free-radical damage, but the blend also contributes to hydrating, firming, and improving the skins barrier function for improved hydration.  Applying on its own or after foundation, the doe foot applicator allows precise application to a certain area with its luxurious texture gliding over the skin with ease and leaving a luminous finish that is crease-proof and does not feel heavy or drying. Apply a little to begin with and if you need more coverage than just add a tiny bit more, with any concealer everyone's skin is different so play around to find out how much you need to apply on days you want to wear it on its own or with a foundation mentioned above. Purchase Here: NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer

NARS Light Reflecting Loose Powder.

Available in 4 shades, the translucent and luminous finish powder not only locks makeup in place all day, but it also features Photochromic Technology. Creating a soft-focus effect whilst adjusting to all sources of light, it also defends the skin against blue light and environmental pollution. The no-flashback formula (ideal for photos) features mineral powders with added hydrators glycerine and vitamin e to maintain moisture levels throughout the wear time, ideal for those who apply powders and feel the moisture suck right out of their skin. The talc-free and vegan-friendly powder is easy to apply by using a powder brush and sweeping over the t-zone or entire face, whilst a powder puff or precision brush using a pressing or rolling action to areas such as the under eye-area will give a more direct application. The mesh sifter is perfect in delivering the amount of powder with each application for a natural and luminous finish, but with all powders i would suggest experimenting with it on application as some people need little or more depending on your skin type. Purchase Here: NARS Light Reflecting Loose Powder

NARS Climax Mascara.

Available in a mini or regular size, the climax mascara effortlessly builds length and volume to each lash with its blackened pigments from root to tip. Featuring a full-bodied brush with ribbed bristles that loads the brush perfectly with the lash moisture complex formula, you will find the creamy texture of the mascara will separate and build volume without feeling heavy or sticky. It is also resistant to smudging, clumping, and the dreaded flaking that you may experience with some mascaras when applied, and after, throughout the day or night. Creating volume is easy by starting with the top eyelashes and wiggling the brush through before then concentrating application on just the root and outer corner lashes. Extra lift is achievable by placing the wand through the lashes but holding it there for 5 seconds, whilst creating a dramatic look on the bottom lashes is really easy using the tapered end featured on the mascara wand. I would recommend when using any new mascara to make sure your eyelashes are clean to begin with and then practice with your applications to see what looks you can and want to create when using this easy to use mascara. Purchase Here: NARS Climax Mascara

NARS Afterglow Lip Balm.

Available in 9 shades, the afterglow lip balm not only delivers a tint of sheer colour with a subtle shine, but the formula also features a Monoï Hydrating Complex. Incorporating Coconut Oil, Gardenia Tahitensis Flower Extract, and Squalene to help keep the lips feeling soft, smooth, and hydrated with added antioxidant protection. Applying over the lips for a natural moisturising look or used as a base, it can also be applied over any lip colour to amp up the shine and illumination, whilst also applying to the high points of your cheeks using your fingers for a natural-looking and shimmer-free highlight. I love the sheer wash of colour these lip balms create but also how the formula absorbs and hydrates the lips when they are in need of a comforting and nourishing treatment. Purchase Here: NARS Afterglow Lip Balm  

See the full range of NARS cosmetics to discover your very own iconic products here: NARS cosmetics x Neil. 

Garnier Pure Active BHA+NIACINAMIDE Daily UV Fluid​

The Garnier Pure Active BHA+NIACINAMIDE Daily UV Fluid​ is the perfect sunscreen for those who not only want to mattify the skin with its invisible texture, but also improve imperfections by including the BHA salicylic acid and calming niacinamide. I do like Garnier's sunscreens especially the Ambre Solaire Ultra-Light Sensitive Face Fluid SPF50+ and the Garnier Vitamin C Daily UV Fluid SPF50+ Invisible but this anti-blemish fluid is ideal for those who have an oiler skin type and even those who suffer with acne or spot-prone skin. Providing a very high protection of SPF50+ that protects the skin against UVA, UVB & long UVA rays, the formula is also non-comedogenic and is fragrance free!

Garnier Pure Active BHA+NIACINAMIDE Daily UV Fluid Ingredients: ​ AQUA / WATER, ALCOHOL DENAT., DIISOPROPYL SEBACATE, SILICA, ISOPROPYL MYRISTATE, ETHYLHEXYL SALICYLATE, ETHYLHEXYL TRIAZONE, BIS-ETHYLHEXYLOXYPHENOL METHOXYPHENYL TRIAZINE, BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE, GLYCERIN, NIACINAMIDE, PROPANEDIOL, C12-22 ALKYL ACRYLATE/ HYDROXYETHYLACRYLATE COPOLYMER, DROMETRIZOLE TRISILOXANE, PERLITE, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, TOCOPHEROL, HYDROXYACETOPHENONE, HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE, SODIUM BENZOATE, TRIETHANOLAMINE, TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE, SILICA SILYLATE, SALICYLIC ACID, ZINC PCA, ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF JUICE, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, TEREPHTHALYLIDENE DICAMPHOR SULFONIC ACID, ACRYLATES/C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER, SARCOSINE, CITRIC ACID, POTASSIUM SORBATE.

Presented in a squeezable and travel-friendly tube, it is important to apply the recommended amount which is the two finger rule (Index and Middle) covering the whole length of the fingers and then applying to the face and neck. Sunscreens should be the last step in your skincare routine (Before Makeup) and this does not disappoint because its lightweight texture glides over the skin with ease and absorbs quite quickly making it ideal for those mornings when your in a rush. I really like how there is no white cast and no residue after application, but love how this lightweight daily fluid keeps skin mattified and those oily t-zones under control!  Find out more here: Daily UV Fluid​ x Neil.

Jerome Russell Bblonde JPLEX

Founded in professional hair salons 30 years ago, Jerome Russell Bblonde is the UK's number one blonding range but now they have curated a new haircare range called JPLEX. Specifically formulated to penetrate the hair shaft to repair damaged bonds caused by colouring, heat styling and general environmental damage means all the products are able to provide protection whilst also strengthening and restoring. The numbered products within the range provide an easy step by step guide to follow and are suitable for all hair types and coloured hair. Disclaimer: I was sent the products for free but this does not influence my opinion written in this blog post.

Step One JPLEX 1 Bond Primer.

The sulphate-free JPLEX 1 Bond Primer is easily applied to dry hair, before shampooing, thanks to the nozzle applicator supplied. The water-like consistency easily drenched my hair from root to tip whilst gently combing with a tangle teezer to ensure every strand was saturated. The bonus points for this product is you don't have to clock-watch or rinse out before applying the next step as the primer prepares the hair for cleansing whilst the bond building technology repairs and strengthens,

Step Two JPLEX Bond Building Shampoo.

The sulphate-free and vegan-friendly JPLEX Bond Building Shampoo applied immediately after the primer is dispensed easily from the bottle with the pump applicator supplied. I only needed one pump dispensed as the shampoo does have a runny consistency but it gently lathers to saturate and cover the whole head for a gentle but effective cleanse. It does smells luxurious whilst rinsing out the hair easily and quickly whilst repairing and strengthening with its bond building technology.

Step Three JPLEX 3 Bond Building Conditioner.

Providing a deep conditioning treatment, the JPLEX 3 Bond Building Conditioner is the ideal product  to nurture, smooth, and seal the hair shaft for healthier looking and shinier hair. The pump applicator dispenses the appropriate amount to be applied from root to tip and should be left on for a minimum of ten minutes when used as a treatment mask. I noticed the instant buttery texture of my hair when it was rinsed out easily and i knew then this had deep conditioned extremely well with its bond building technology.

Step Four JPLEX 4 Bond Maintainer Spray. 

Spraying the hair, the JPLEX 4 Bond Maintainer Spray is your leave-in treatment that not only has that bond building technology, but its also has heat protection of up to 230˚C. The spray head delivers the perfect amount of product evenly over damp hair to strengthen hair bonds whilst also restoring natural elasticity to the hair. I like how quick this dries my hair whilst also keeping its style when using heat tools but it still works perfectly on those days i just allow my hair to air dry.

JPLEX Nourishing Hair Oil.

A perfect aftercare styling treatment following the 4-step JPLEX Bond Building range, the JPLEX Nourishing Hair Oil is versatile with what it offers, Dispensing 1-3 drops using the pipette dropper supplied, you can either apply to freshly washed, wet, or dry hair before styling because it does have heat protection. I typically apply this onto dry hair after styling because it adds smoothness, boosts shine, and overall conditions being a leave-in treatment, it even accomplishes being a great overnight hair oil as well. 

Affordable, easy to use, and leaves the hair feeling stronger and looking healthier, find out more about these great products here: JPLEX x Neil. 

Maybelline Lash Sensational Firework Mascara

Replicating the impact of a firework in a tube, Maybelline have introduced their new lash sensational firework mascara to the makeup market. The innovative supershark plastic brush features bristles that are arranged in a spiral direction to offer a precise application that is clump-free, whilst easily separating each individual eye lash. The gel-based formula which is available in two versions of being waterproof, or not, features pro-vitamin B5 to nourish each lash and encourages your 360° lash impact for up to 24 hours with comfort. Disclaimer: I was sent this mascara for free, this does not influence my opinion shared in my blog post and the links in blue are not affiliated.

Maybelline Lash Sensational Firework Mascara Ingredients: Aqua / Water, Propylene Glycol, Styrene/Acrylates/Ammonium Methacrylate Copolymer, Polyurethane-35, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Cera Alba / Beeswax, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Peg-200 Glyceryl Stearate, Ethylenediamine/Stearyl Dimer Dilinoleate Copolymer, Copernicia Cerifera Cera / Carnauba Wax, Stearic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Ethylene/Va Copolymer, Alcohol Denat., Paraffin, Aminomethyl Propanediol, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Glycerin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Butylene Glycol, Methylpropanediol, Xanthan Gum, Panthenol, Rayon, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Myristic Acid, Calcium Sodium Borosilicate, Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, Tetrasodium Edta, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Potassium Sorbate, Silica, Phenylpropanol, Kaolin, Tin Oxide,  [+/- May Contain: Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499 / Iron Oxides, Ci 77891 / Titanium Dioxide, Ci 77007 / Ultramarines, Mica, Ci 75470 / Carmine, Ci 77288 / Chromium Oxide Greens, Ci 77742 / Manganese Violet, Ci 77510 / Ferric Ferrocyanide]. (F.I.L. Z70037276/4).

Presented in an eye-appealing pink colour, the outer design features grooves which help you grip and stop the mascara from falling out of your hands, whilst also it wont roll off any surfaces you place it on. Priming the brush with a few pumps and then applying to clean dry lashes, the brush glides from the bottom to the top of the lashes with ease. Separating each eyelash and creating height by its impressive flare action, it is important to remember to build-up your mascara layers, before your previous layer dries, for a more impressive look. One layer creates a natural fanned out look and then two or three layers creates that intense dramatic style, remember that black mascara is universally flattering for all eye colours and makes the eyes pop. 

Create your own flake/clump-free look and have fun playing with the brush and formula when applying the Lash Sensational Firework from Maybelline, priced at £12.99. Once opened make sure to use within 6 months, x Neil.  

Hydrate And Sun Protect Skin With Garnier

Keeping the skin hydrated and protected is essential for optimal skin health, Garnier offer affordable skincare products for all skin types and concerns. Cleansing the skin to remove impurities, pollution, and any previous products you can then proceed to tone, treat, hydrate, and then apply a broad-spectrum sun protection to protect from both UVA & UVB rays. I have previously reviewed Garnier products that can be found on my blog that i have purchased, disclaimer - the products featured in this blog post were sent to me for free that i did not have to review, but i like them so much i have chosen to include them on my blog. The links in blue are not affiliated and are just placed for you to discover the products quicker. 

Bringing the hair back and out of your face to apply specific products is made easier, thanks to the Garnier Good Squish that holds the hair in place. The handy hair helper should be handwashed in mild detergent whilst leaving to air-dry, do not tumble dry! To keep the shape of the 100% deadstock cotton and organza trim, you can iron using a little steam or you can place a heavy book over it and press down firmly, simple!     

Instantly hydrate and cool the skin, when applying the Anti-Fatigue Hyaluronic Acid & Icy Cucumber Cryo Jelly Face Mask. Placing the sheet mask on to cleansed skin, the vegan and second-skin formula cools the skin’s temperature by -7°C* whilst also minimising the signs of fatigue. Leaving on for 15 minutes, the formula contains 4% humectants and soothing ingredients to boost hydration and moisture for all skin types. Once the time is up and the sheet mask is taken off, you can either remove any residue with a cotton pad or massage any remaining product into the skin with your fingers. A hydrating and cooling sheet mask that hydrates and boosts moisture any season of the year, before applying any of your other skincare products.

Refreshing the under eye area with added hydration and soothing ingredients is accomplished easily when applying the Anti-Fatigue Hyaluronic Acid & Icy Cucumber Cryo Jelly Eye Patches. Applying after you have cleansed your skin, the jelly patches can either be used in the morning to awaken the eye area or in the evening to refresh before an occasion. Featuring the same 4% humectants and soothing ingredients just like the sheet mask, the jelly patches stay in place for 15 minutes to boost hydration and moisture whilst also cooling the skin’s temperature by -7°C*. Removing the patches, you can either remove any remaining product with a cotton pad or massage any remaining product into and around the eye area before following on with your current skincare products, 

Respectful of the skins barrier, the Micellar Cleansing Water All-in-1 effectively cleanses and soothes the skin whilst being able to remove water-proof makeup and sunscreens designed to stay on the skin. The micelles included act like magnets to capture and remove impurities, pollution, and face products whilst the added botanical glycerin included provides hydration and soothing properties. The no fragrance formula should be applied to a cotton or reusable pad and swiped over the face, eyes, and lips whilst no rinse-off is required. I personally like to cleanse my skin with a face cleanser but the micellar water is ideal for those who are travelling, for those who don't like using oil-balm cleansers, and is a perfect first cleanse to break-down stubborn water-proof products.

Enriched with Vitamin E and Beta-Carotene, Garnier Ambre Solaire Ideal Bronze Milk-In Spray SPF50 is a product to apply to help protect your skin from sun damage and photo-aging signs while also enhancing your tan. Resistant to sand, water, and sweat, the formula also protects against UVA and UVB rays when applied every 2 hours, though over exposure to the sun is dangerous and is advised not to stay exposed in the sun for a long period of time. Applying generously over the body from the spray applicator, the luxurious milky formula feels non-sticky, non-greasy, and has a transparent finish on the skin accompanied with a luxury fragrance. Perfect for those who want a high-protecting body sunscreen that leaves the skin with a soft and silky finish and not an uncomfortable one. 

Instant skin barrier protection is welcomed when applying the Super UV Daily Invisible Face Serum with SPF 50+ because the new formula is enriched with ceramide. Developed for the sensitive face area, it provides very high protection against UVB, UVA, and long UVA rays whilst also fighting against external aggressions and skin pollution. The non-greasy, non-sticky, and leaving no white marks when applied helps this invisible serum super UV be ideal for all skin tones. Presented in a pump bottle and applying the appropriate amount for maximum protection, the lightweight texture glides over the skin with ease before absorbing quickly leaving no trace of itself. Highly recommended if your wanting a lightweight and nude skin feel SPF to use daily and under makeup.

Intensely hydrating and smoothing the skin, the Garnier Ambre Solaire Super UV SPF 50+ Hydrating Protection Fluid provides a broad spectrum protection against UVB, UVA, and Long UVA rays. Formulated with 3% Glycerin, Vitamin E, and Hyaluronic Acid the non-greasy and non-sticky fluid is ideal for drier skin types, whilst it also helps fight against oxidative stress due to pollution. Shaking the bottle and dispensing two finger lengths (index and middle) to the face and neck, the fluid instantly absorbs with an invisible finish and no white cast. Ideal for all skin tones and the bottle being travel-friendly, this no-fragrance protection fluid should be applied as the last step in your skincare routine and applied before makeup.

Reapplication of sun protection is made easier when using the Garnier Ambre Solaire Over Makeup Super UV Protection Mist SPF50. Broad spectrum protection against UVB, UVA, and Long UVA rays is provided whilst the formulation also contains 6% Glycerin, Vitamin E, and Hyaluronic Acid for added hydration. Applied before makeup or after, the weightless and non-greasy texture feels comfortable on the skin when spraying over the face and neck with your eyes closed and your lips pinched together. The invisible finish is suitable for all skin tones and is ideal for anyone who wants to reapply their sun protection throughout the day, even if they are wearing or not wearing makeup.

Easily Hydrate and Sun Protect your skin with the Garnier products mentioned above, the links in blue are not affiliated and are only placed for you to discover the products quicker, x Neil.