Bobbi Brown Makeup Manual - The Ultimate Beauty Guide

Today’s post is a little book review. I’m not sure what my opinion on book reviews is to be honest! I love reading, but I’m always very skeptical when someone recommends a book to me, because what someone might tell me is gripping, I might find boring. I think books are very personal, and you can’t tell if you’re going to like one until you’re reading it yourself, and even then, it might take you until you’re halfway through to make up your mind about it. This is a little bit different, as it’s a makeup book, rather than a novel.

For Christmas I received the incredible Bobbi Brown Makeup Manual from my boyfriend (without prompting! I was impressed). Other than being completely surprised that he’d bought me this, I was also extremely excited, as I’d wanted this for quite a while. I know i'm extremely late to the party seeing as this came out in 2008 (!!!), but i think it's still a classic. It doesn't go into great deal on any of the newer makeup trends out there like contouring or strobing, but it's still a fantastic staple for anyone who has a genuine passion for makeup. I thought I would give you a review on what you can expect from the book, and the sort of things that are covered in it.

  

Bobbi Brown is a great talent. It is clear from the first couple of pages, this woman knows what she’s talking about. She states that she has written the book to benefit anyone, whether you're a beginner or a professional makeup artist. It goes through the very basics of makeup application, what works for different skin types, and a series of how-to's, sprinkled with absolutely gorgeous photography.

         

The book is split into two parts, basics and artistry. I have only read the basics section so far, but I am already amazed by this book. I've learnt so many things already, and by applying some of the tips and methods, I see a genuine difference in my makeup. Bobbi goes into detail about exactly what you'll need in your makeup kit, how to care for your products, and how exactly to use them. There's sections on skincare, eyes, lips, specific looks, makeup photography, and the history of makeup. There's something in here for everyone I think, no matter your experience or knowledge.

If you have any interest in makeup, the industry, learning tips, or the history of it, then you will love this book, and I definitely recommend it. Let me know if you've read this, and what you're thoughts are!

MAC Satin Lipstick - Captive

Today I thought I'd do a post about a new MAC lipstick that I've come across that I've fallen in love with! The lipstick is a satin finish in the colour 'Captive' which is a lovely plum colour.

First of all, Captive is a gorgeous colour that is quite bold but i feel like it could also be worn as more of an everyday lipstick with the right look. I think it's a great colour that would suit most skin tones so I would recommend to anyone.

The feel of this lipstick is lovely. It's so soft and creamy. It feels quite moisturising and not drying at all, it's not the most moisturising lipstick I've ever worn but it is very good, I feel very comfortable with it on my lips it doesn't feel thick or heavy on at all.

The lipstick is a satin finish which is quite matte but has a slight sheen to it which I love. I prefer the look of matte lipsticks over any other but I think this variation is perfect. The satin finish lipsticks by MAC are my new favourites, I love this colour, I can't wait to get more.

What's your favourite MAC shade? 

Boots Botanics 97% Organic Hot Cloth Cleansing Balm

As my obsession with Skincare grows and grows I have started to try more hot cloth cleansing balms. I decided to try out the Boots Botanics one as it's a fair price and I'd heard some good things about it. The Boots Botanic range raves about using organic products to create something that is excellent for your skin whilst using only the best ingredients. I'm not really one to buy into the 'it says organic so it must be good' thing, but after reading up on what the cleanser actually contains, for example rosehip and jojoba oil, it seemed like a really good way to go.

I have normal/combination skin, sometimes my cheeks get a little dry and I occasionally get a few blemishes here and there but I don't necessarily have problem skin. I have to say that it's worked wonders for me, it not only cleanses and melts the make up and dirt away but it also leaves my skin feeling so soft and quite moisturised afterwards. The only thing I would say is that it is quite oily, it's not surprising as the ingredients include Shea butter and jojoba oil so it may be too much for naturally oily skin. For me personally, on the whole I think it's a great product.

After removing my eye make up in the evening, I use this to remove the rest of my make up. I massage it into my skin and leave for a minute before taking off with a warm muslin cloth. I also like to use a foaming cleanser afterwards to remove any residue that may still be on my skin.

Overall, I'd say that it's a really good product especially for the price. It removes all traces of make up whilst leaving my skin feeling moisturised and radiant. As hot cloth cleansers go, I'd really recommend this, it's a great little cleanser that is great on your skin and your purse!