The BD team road-tests all the new and noteworthy products hitting stores this March.
BIODERMA Sensibio H2O Micelle Solution Reverse Pump Micellar Water - Steph
What it is: A broad-spectrum fragrance-free micellar solution, specifically formulated to cleanse impurities and remove makeup for sensitive and intolerable skin.
My experience: I am a long time fan of Sensibio H20 and was really excited to see this limited-edition launch with a reverse pump! While applying micellar water to a cotton pad isn’t rocket science there is something about being able to leave this on your vanity and pump solution onto a pad in two seconds that just makes this even more convenient and effortless to use. The solution itself is a widely loved favourite for a reason, it’s super gentle yet super effective! I love using this on my sensitive eyes to remove all traces of makeup my cleanser left behind, it removes everything without stinging or irritating them, and is also really gentle when swept across the skin to remove any last traces of the day. For a simple staple, Sensibio H20 somehow just knocks it out of the park!
Benefit Roller Eye Bright Pencil and Benefit Roller Liner Eyeliner - Georgie
What it is: Benefit Roller Liner Eyeliner is a matte liquid eyeliner. The precision felt tip creates clean and controlled lines, with a matte finish that lasts for 24 hours without fading or smudging. Benefit Roller Eye Bright Pencil is an eyeliner for the waterline. The baby pink shade is formulated to make eyes look bigger and brighter, and has eight-hour longwear.
My experience: I feel like I’m on a constant mission to make my eyes look bigger, so these products have been a welcome addition to my cosmetics collection since they landed on my desk a few weeks ago. The thing I love about all Benefit eye products is their precision applicators that help create nice, clean makeup looks perfect for the office. The same goes for these eyeliners, one a creamy pencil, one a felt tip. I can’t speak highly enough about their ease of application, you could pop them on in the dark if needed! They last all day without budging and best yet, they make your eyes look bright and beautifully emphasised.
Estée Lauder Pure Color Desire Rouge Excess Lipstick - Aja
What it is: A lipstick with bold colour impact and plumping moisture.
My experience: This is one of Estée Lauder’s highest pigmented lipsticks, and when they say it’s formulated with 25 per cent intense pure pigment, they aren’t joking! I have been loving the shade 304 Rouge Excess, which is a classic, true red, that finishes off any look, whether that be an evening out on the town, or dressing up casual jeans and a t-shirt. The creamy-rich formula is also hydrating, which is particularly important heading into dry autumn weather. With the uber-luxe gold casing and magnetic closure, it’s safe to say this one has a permanent place in my handbag!
David Beckham Follow Your Instinct - Rachel
What it is: A limited-edition fragrance for men that is inspired by adventure and discovery.
My experience: My partner is loving this new fragrance! The bottle is simple yet sleek and the magnetic lid offers a classy touch. He has been using this fragrance daily for the past week and is pleasantly surprised by how long the scent lingers on his skin throughout the day, even just by using it once in the morning; post-shower. The open notes are spicy and vibrant through a hit of coriander, aldehydes and iced lemon accord. The heart notes of aromatic and floral bouquet of lavandin and orange blossom aspects, contrasted with cardamon, creates sensuality and offers a fresh feel. The scent then settles into a woody drydown with vetiver, cedarwood and mossy notes, lending warmth and an earthy sensation. The inspiration of adventure and discovery is definitely present in this fragrance - it’s a scent that I’m particularly drawn to and one I know my partner will continue to reach for!
Weleda Skin Food Body Butter - Emily
What it is: A soft whipped body butter that melts onto skin leaving it soft and glowing.
My experience: I was so excited to give this a try when it came across my desk! I’ve always been a big fan of body butters as I feel that they provide that extra bit of moisture my body needs. The Weleda Skin Food Body butter is next level! I love that it is 100 per cent natural with no parabens or synthetic fragrances, only pure plant and flower extracts. The fragrance of lavender and orange is beautiful and subtle. The body butter has a light, whipped texture which makes it quick and easy to absorb into the skin, keeping it soft and hydrated with no need to re-apply. This product is a game changer and will always have a place in my beauty cupboard!
Trussardi Sound of Donna - Tiarne
What it is: A perfume dedicated to a fresh, new generation of millennial women.
My experience: I love trying new perfumes, so was very excited about this. And with delightfully upbeat notes that made me feel happy right away, I definitely wasn’t disappointed! The almond and floral notes became apparent almost immediately, and once it dried down, a milky-cream fragrance also emerged and lasted the entire day - even after my daily workout! I got many compliments from people who are now thinking of purchasing the scent themselves. As a bonus, the purple bottle is sleek, beautiful and great for slipping into my handbag. I’m extremely happy with Sound of Donna, which has been added to my growing list of favourite fragrances.
Ardell Remy Lashes (776) and Ardell 2-in-1 Brush-On Striplash Adhesive - Jess
What it is: False eyelashes made with 100 per cent human hair and a lash adhesive.
My experience: These two products work together so well. The lashes come in luxurious looking gold packaging, and are higher volume than I would usually go for. While they are still high volume and give your lashes a dramatic look, they don’t look silly or overly fake like I’ve seen some other high volume lashes look. The tapered ends and shorter inner and outer corners help them look more natural and really help take your smokey eye to the next level. The duo 2-in-1 lash adhesive has a fine brush tip to make it easier to apply, and has a white/clear end and a dark end, meaning you can use it over black eyeliner without looking a mess.
Natio Sun-Kissed Colour Collection - Sun-kissed Glow Palette - Jamie
What it is: A face palette featuring six buildable shades to contour, define and highlight features.
My experience: I am always looking for products that can cut down on time and space and this palette is perfect. It includes a buildable bronzing shade, a beautiful, subtle blush shade, a stunning highlighter shade and three nude-to-smokey eye shadows. I love that I can use this palette daily and build the shades to a perfect look for work or going out to dinner! Each shade has a subtle shine to give you that glowy look. I was also amazed to find out that the packaging is made from recycled cardboard - a definite plus!
