My hero products of 2014
Retrospective. Most of the times, not a good thing (as we tend to do it when something didn’t go right) but in this case, a rather fab one as I am looking back at my life-saver products of 2014.
I can pretty much guarantee I forgot something I really love, but this will have to do, as I keep adding stuff. I have to draw a line.
Starting with nails, of course, the prize goes to Seche Vite. In all honesty, I can confidently say that I had it on my nails probably 80% of the year and if that is not reason enough, add perfect finish and endurance to the mix.
I also abused nail and cuticle oils; from an old favourite clove oil (Brazilian brand Ideal topping it) to new discovery Dadi’Oil.
L’Oréal Color Riche polishes have also been a huge part of my year.
Hands wise, I cannot live without a good hand cream; top used this year was Balance Me Rose Otto Hand Cream, followed my Nivea Smooth Nourishing Anti-Dryness and Scottish Fine Soaps Sea Kelp hand creams.
On my lips, the Nivea Lip Butter (in any flavour) reigns absolute. This product is one of the only ones that will agree with my lips and I cannot take lanolin. Love, use everyday, many times a day.
A little handy discovery was Revlon ColorBurst Matte Balm, which is so easy to use to keep my lips red. Perfect for the beach (yes, I wear red lippie on the beach. Judge me.).
Skincare… oooh, there were so many loves… The top one is, for sure, the Balance Me Radiance Oil. Yes, oil. On my face, I never thought I would ever say that in my life. Love it, love it love it, all year round, when flying.
After falling in love with Liz Earle’s Cleanse and Polish (which I really love) and other battalion of products, I reverted my routine back to the simpler, old friend of mine Clinique 3-Step, after being put back on topical acne treatment.
The launch of their blemish line was responsible for the turn and so far, I don’t think I am going back. I love the toner/exfoliator, the cleanser is very mild and effective and the moisturiser, although it needs a boost as it is super light, is great. It really helped improve my skin.
I love Liz Earle’s masks – used the Brightening and the Deep Cleansing ones quite a lot – and still do!
My hair didn’t have a great year as I am losing quite a bit, so Swell Hair was really a discovery I will not let go. Their three step system (I think I’m obsessed with three-step things!) is something that will remain in my life. Their Dry Shampoo is also my new hero.
For styling, I learnt (kind of) to curl my hair, so big props to L’Óreal Studio Line #TXT Wave Creating Spray, Babyliss Diamond Waves Wand and Remington Sapphire Curling wand, as well as my Ghd straighteners, also very handy at curling!
As a finishing product, the Garnier Ultimate Blends Marvellous Glow oil has definitely been a favourite.
Finally, makeup… where do I start?
Big discoveries were the MAC Pro Longwear concealer, which is just amazing, great coverage, finish and durability and the Makeup Revolution Vivid Baked Highlighter for being awesome.
My favourite primer title remains with Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer. For my eyebrows, I’ve been using B. Defined Eyebrow Kit.
The eyeliner of the year award goes to L’Oréal Superliner Perfect Slim Intense for having it all: easy of application, durability, colour saturation and great value for money.
As far as mascaras go, I think L’Oréal Volume Million Lashes So Couture had the edge – a huge surprise for me as it has plastic bristles and I am not usually fond of them.
I discovered so many brands and products in 2014, it is almost impossible to count… other favourites include S5 Balance Fluid and Purity Serum, GOSH Lip Lacquer, Makeup Gallery Nail Polish in Parma Violet, and Superdrug own brand skincare (!).
Before I add any more, I will stop.
I really cannot wait to see what 2015 brings!!!
