Summer Makeup & Skincare | Zafira
Hi!
I had a lot of aspirations of glowing up this quarantine in preparation for summer, however it just wasn’t in the books for me this year. My skin and I have gone through a roller coaster of events. From breakouts every week or so to scaring like no other, it’s made me simplify my skincare and change a few things in my makeup routine which has led me to find some amazing products I want to share with you this week.
I’ve also filmed a little get ready with me because I haven’t done one in forever and I know a lot of you like when I film videos.
Here’s the products I used in this video as well as some other skincare and beauty bits I’ve been in love with recently:
Hyaluronic Acid
If you aren’t already on this Hyaluronic Acid kick then you are well and truly missing out on your skin absorbing all the moisture it needs.
I actually stopped using this for a bit because I was using a different serum that already had the hyaluronic acid within it but I’ve stopped using that and simplified the entirety of my skincare routine.
I had a really bad breakout on both cheeks over the past few weeks ago and with acne medication that dries your skin out like no other, moisture and hydration was something my skin definitely needed. I go in with a facial mist after cleansing and then I’ll apply this just before my moisturiser. It has brought back so much life into my skin.
You can buy this here.
GLOSSIER - INVISIBLE SHEILD
This was the only reason I was excited to go start going outside a lot more now that restrictions have eased up is this.
This might be the best thing I’ve ever put on my skin.
Since I do have a lot of acne scarring, one thing step in my daily routine that I’ve learnt is vital, is sunscreen. Exposure to your skin without suncreen can actually cause your scars to darken so it is incredibly important to add this into your routine.
I love this one from Glossier because not only does it smell amazing but it has more a gel texture and no white cast like your generic sunsreens. As a darker skinned girl, putting on sunscreen has always been a nightmare but this blends into your skin like a regular moisturiser or serum and leaves no residue whatsoever.
I was a little shocked by how small this was at first but you’d surprised how far one pump of this can go.
You can buy this here.
kiehls - ultra facial cream
As I said earlier, my skin has been suffering so simplicity in my routine has just been incredibly vital. This cream is the best because it just does what you want a moisturiser to do which is moisturise.
This is ideal if you have oily/combination skin because it isn’t greasy or really thick but still hydrates you skin.
I will never put another moisturiser on my skin ever again because this is perfect.
You can buy this here.
clinique - even better glow foundation in cream caramel
I’ve never been a full coverage foundation girl so when I tried this and realised it was basically a tinted moisturiser, obviously I fell in love.
It applies so smoothly and is pretty light so it doesn’t feel like you’re actually wearing anything but the glow and dewiness this foundation has is beautiful and has pretty decent coverage for a foundation that is so light.
Even after powdering, my skin has this subtle dew to it that makes it look healthy and makes me look awake and fresh.
You can buy this here.
estee lauder - double wear concealer in
6N Extra Deep
This is supposed to be an excellent concealer however, this shade is too dark for me to use as a concealer. So I’ve been using it to cream contour instead.
I know for contour, you’re supposed to use a very cool toned brown but I personally prefer something that is a little on the warmer side and this shade is spot on.
I apply this under my cheekbones, my nose, sides of my forehead and a tiniest bit on my jaw and blend it in with a beauty blender.
I also adore using this as a base before my everyday eye shadow. It’s a great primer and base and intensifies whatever shade of brown I decide to put on my eyelids that day.
You can buy this here.
mac - studio finish concealer in NW40
On the topic of concealer, this Mac Studio Finish concealer has been my best friend when it comes to covering scars and blemishes as well as my under eyes.
It’s a little more heavy duty than any concealer I’ve used before but I think that’s what makes it so good.
You can buy this here.
nip + fab - contour palette in dark
I was contemplating whether even photographing this was a good idea because it’s the most beat up thing in my collection.
I use this for everything.
I’ve hit pan on pretty much every shade because I use them all. I’ll use the two middle brown shades for contour/bronzer as well as eye shadow. The darker brown on the right for a more intense contour or in the crease for my eye shadow. I’ll use the pink shade as a blush but also will blend a little into whatever lipstick I’m wearing that day.
This is literally the most efficient and useful palette I’ve ever bought.
You can buy this here.
Nyx - ultimate shadow palette
I’ve slowly started incorporating more and more colour into my routine these past few months and the easiest ways to do that is by getting an eye shadow palette like this.
It has so many colours but my favourite at this moment is the lilac. I did a little look with this a few weeks ago. You can check that out here.
You can be subtle and use these are liners for a tiny pop of colour or you can be bold and use these all over your eye lids. The options and colour combos are endless.
You can buy this here.
smashbox + vlada - petal metal shimmer drops
This is amazing for any of you who love glitter but want something a little more subtle and easy to wear everyday.
I use this as a highlight sometimes, on top of eye shadow and even on top of my lipsticks.
It’s basically a glitter top coat but for your face. It’s truly great because it doesn’t mess up your makeup when you apply it, it dries so fast and has the prettiest sparkle.
I like to squeeze a few drops onto my finger and pat wherever I want to put it.
You can buy this here.
barry m - lip liner in chocolate
I will never in my life buy another brown liner that isn’t this.
I think I first bought this when I was around 15/16 and nearly five years on, it’s become a staple in my everyday routine.
I usually love using this as just a lip liner to fill and line my lips but recently I’ve loved using this as an eyeliner too. I do a little flick on the outer corner of my eyes with this to elongate my eyes.
You can buy this here.
Nyx - Matte Lip Liner in Alabama
At some during the beginning of this year, I decided I needed to change my everyday lip colour and went out and bought this liner.
On the rare days I do decide to switch things up a little, I’m a big fan of using this lip liner with either a nude/mauve lipstick blended in.
It looks like a red lip liner but it’s got this orange-y brown tone to it which I love.
You can buy this here.
If you’re curious about the products I used in the video that I haven’t listed in my current favourites then here’s a list of everything I used!
everything I used in the video:
Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray
Clinique Even Better Glow Foundation in Cream Caramel
Mac Studio Finish Concealer in NW40
Revolution Conceal and Define Concealer in C10
Estee Lauder Double Wear Concealer in 6N Extra Deep
Laura Mercier Translucent Powder
Nip + Fab Contour Palette in Dark
Zoeva Cocoa Blend Palette
Barry M Lip Liner in Chocolate
Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara
Nyx Soft Matte Lip Cream in Rome
Thanks for reading!
Get Ready With Me: Autumn Edition | Zafira
Hi!
Every time I post a photograph of me of on my Instagram I get a lot of questions about what’s on my face. Whether that’s the lipstick I’m wearing, my foundation or even skincare and I thought the best way of answering all those questions was by filming a little get ready with me.
I do a lot of these. These are the only videos I film because 1. they don’t require me to speak (i hate my voice) and 2. they’re pretty straightforward and easy to film. Maybe one day I’ll venture out and become a full blown beauty guru but for now, I’m happy with my once a year get ready with mes.
Without further adieu, here’s me transforming from a dying Bella Swan, to an amazing catfish. Enjoy!
Products Used:
VITAMIN E HYDRATING MIST
I use this day, night, on my beauty sponge and literally whenever I just need to wake up it’s the best thing ever.
hyaluronic acid serum
I use this day and night too and it’s amazing if you have dry skin like me. It’s especially great for this time of year when it gets a little chillier.
alpha arbutin serum
I started using this about a week or two ago and I’ve already noticed such a massive difference in my skin. I have a lot of scarring from previous acne and this helps a lot with pigmentation.
glossier invisible shield
I’ve recently started using sunscreen everyday because I don’t like that I’m getting older and any sign of ageing will 100% send me into a full on breakdown. This one from Glossier is what I’ve been looking for my entire life. It doesn’t leave you looking white or sticky or feeling like you have sunscreen on at all.
kiehls ultra facial cream
This is easily the best moisturiser ever. I suffer with dry skin so finding a moisturiser that does its job but also doesn’t feel too heavy on the skin used to be such a difficult task until I found this beauty.
glossier balm dot com
I think I enjoy eating this more than I enjoy putting it on my lips. It tastes so so so good. I’ve started using this everyday because it’s pretty and sparkly and also because it’s one of the best lip balms ever.
maybelline fit me matte and porless foundation
If you’re looking for a cheap drugstore foundation then this is your best friend. For £6 you really can’t go wrong.
revolution conceal & define
I never used to wear concealer mainly because I’m lazy and I’d rather just embrace the whole ‘I haven’t slept all night’ thing but once I used this concealer I never went back. It’s so good. I can’t leave the house without wearing it anymore because it makes me look so awake.
laura mercier loose setting powder
In the shade ‘Translucent’.
I’ve had quite the love/hate relationship with this powder. When I first used it, I found it really cakey but I spent £30 on this so I gave it another try a few months ago and now I love it. It makes my face look so smooth when it most definitely is not.
nip + fab contour palette
This is in the shade ‘Dark’.
This palette as you can see is so well loved. I use this not only for contour but bronzer, blush, eye shadow and even for lipstick. I’ll use a mixture of the top 3 brown shades for my contour, the empty brown shade for bronzer, the pink for blush and I also like to pat a bit of this shade on my lips. I think it looks really nice when your blush and lipstick match. I’ll also use any of the top 3 brown shades as eye shadow.
maybelline lash sensational mascara
I’ve been using this mascara for years and I don’t think I’ll ever switch because this is truly the best of the best. It doesn’t clump at all and makes my eyelashes fluttery and long.
mary-lou manizer
I’m not too crazy about highlighter, I think this might be the only highlighter I’ve used in my life. It’s such a great shade for brown girls too.
barry m lip liner
In the shade ‘Chocolate’.
I use this lip liner everyday and have done since I started wearing makeup. It’s the perfect brown lip liner. I use it before any lipstick I apply.
nyx soft matte lip cream
In the shade ‘Rome’.
Along with the Barry M lip liner, I’ve also been using this exact shade of lipstick ever since I started wearing makeup. This with the lip liner is my favourite lip combo of all time.
urban decay all nighter setting spray
Honestly, I only started wearing setting spray this year because I never felt the need for it but now I can’t even leave the house without being drenched in this. Not only does it keep your makeup on all day but I think it really helps with making your makeup looking a little less cakey.
Thanks for reading (and watching too i guess)! Let me know if you want to see more stuff like this on here.
Lots of love,
February Favourites 2019 | Zafira
Hi!
I have no idea how it's March but February has flown so so so much quicker than January. Now that Spring is finally coming our way (and climate change), I've had a chance to not only switch out my winter items and products but also purchase some new bits and pieces which have changed my life.
Here are my favourites for Feb!
1. REVOLUTION CONCEAL AND DEFINE CONCEALER
I feel like makeup is a very chronological place to start since February turned out to be my month of breakouts. Literally, the day the months changed I broke out like there was no tomorrow and it was extremely unfortunate especially because we had a big family wedding coming up mid-Feb. My breakouts did calm down by then but not enough to just wear foundation like I usually do.
I've never been into concealer because I hate the way it feels but this is so different and feels extremely light. I even started wearing concealer under my eyes too which is something I never do and it's been life-changing.
I usually use the darker shade (C12.5) kind of all over, on my scars and under my eyes. Then I go in with the lighter shade to highlight because I now think I'm an MUA, I'll use this on my forehead, a tiny bit under the eyes and on my chin. For £4, you definitely cannot go wrong with this.
Buy it here:
https://www.superdrug.com/Make-Up/Face/Concealer/Revolution-Conceal-and-Define-Concealer-C5/p/751538
2. NYX FOIL PLAY CREAM PIGMENT in POP QUIZ & GLITTER PRIMER
Glitter is something I like to keep my distance from because once you touch it never leaves you. However, I decided to go extreme for this family wedding and just spice up my go-to gold eyeshadow look with a dash of glitter and I'm so glad I did because my eyeshadow was dazzling in all the pics I took!
I swatched this NYX Foil Play in Boots and was a bit taken back because it was just super glittery. Not like chunky glitter, kind of like a gold eyeshadow but with millions of tiny flecks of gold glitter. I did use gold eyeshadow as a base for extra pigment and then used a thin layer of the glitter primer (worked absolute wonders) and then applied the glitter.
My eyeshadow was on until 3am I can 100% assure you that this glitter and primer combo are amazing.
Buy it here:
https://www.nyxcosmetics.co.uk/eyes/eyeshadow/foil-play-cream-pigment/NYX_639.html
3. & OTHER STORIES LIPSTICK in RUBYLITH REGAL
I ended up throwing away a lot of makeup at the beginning of the year either because it was old or just not worn enough. I'm really trying to minimalise my makeup collection because realistically, how much makeup can you possibly wear? I'm trying to purchase things that either have multi purposes or things I know I will defo wear on a day to day basis.
This lipstick from & Other Stories is 1. super pretty but also 2. so versatile. I will wear this either full on with a brown lip liner and use a little bit of loose powder to matte it down the slightest bit or I will apply it in a very thin layer to get that 'swollen lip' look and if I'm feeling a bit adventurous that day, I might even add a lipgloss on top.
I can't find the specific shade of lipstick I mentioned but I would definitely recommend having a browse through their lip products and see what catches your eye!:
4. LAURA MERCIER POWDER in TRANSLUCENT
Now listen, paying any more than £5 for a l o o s e p o w d e r is ridiculous. But this, this is a game changer. My face? Not cakey. It's smooth, airbrushed and just nice to look at. I may have just become a broke student again but it was completely worth it.
That's all I have to say about this.
Buy it here:
http://www.selfridges.com/GB/en/cat/laura-mercier-loose-setting-powder_304-3001489-12321001/
5. KHAKI PANTS AND JACKET
This kind of counts are two favourites but I didn't take two separate pics for them (whoops). I bought these khaki pants and jacket from Zara on two separate occasions and when clearing out my wardrobe these two items just found their way together. They were just laid on my bed next to each other and I was like wow wait hold on this is actually a great outfit and this is how I ended up creating what I have decided is my most coordinated outfit yet.
Unfortunately, the pants and jacket aren't available anymore but here's some good alternatives...
Pants:
https://www.zara.com/uk/en/drss-trsr-01-p08547860.html?v1=8468819&v2=1180677
Jacket:
https://www.zara.com/uk/en/jacket-with-contrast-topstitching-p08073021.html?v1=8167138&v2=1180323
6. THE ORDINARY HYALURONIC ACID
Skincare has been a bit tricky this month since I had such a crappy breakout but this has really helped. I've been using products to dry out my spots so stuff like the Mario Badescu drying lotion and Sudocrem (weird yes but it works so well!!) and to somewhat combat the dryness after my spots have gone, I've been using this twice a day.
It's important to use this before a moisturiser in order for it to work properly, so in the mornings I'll use this with my GlamGlow Glowstarter Mega Illuminating Moisturiser and then in the night with Bio Oil. It's wonderful and so inexpensive.
Buy it here:
https://theordinary.com/product/rdn-hyaluronic-acid-2pct-b5-30ml
7. & OTHER STORIES PERFUME in MIAMI MUSE
I'm quite a picky person when it comes to perfume. I'm not a fan of overpowering perfumes or like extremely floral ones. I always look for something that smells clean, comforting and something you'd sniff and be like 'hm that's nice'.
It lasts all day and isn't too strong but strong enough for people to compliment me on my scent. I think & Other Stories have such a good range of fragrances and it's not really somewhere you'd expect to be selling such high quality perfumes. A very unexpected but well-loved favourite this month!
Buy it here:
https://www.stories.com/en_gbp/beauty/fragrances/product.eau-de-toilette-miami-muse.0293738026.html
8. FLORAL EARRINGS
I'd be lying if I said I've been wearing these a lot but I only got them a few days ago but they already make me drool so so so much. Lovisa is such an underrated shop with the prettiest jewelry ever. I saw this and cried for a few minutes and somehow found my feet dragging me to the till and my hands pulling out my debit card. It all happened so fast but I'm dying to wear these. I might just be
that
person and wear them to uni this week.
Buy them here:
https://www.lovisa.com/products/rgld-rg-coated-flower-hoop-er
9. LUSH ROSE JAM BUBBLEROON
The Lush Rosejam bubbleroon has changed my zen Sundays massively. Every Sunday, I take time to myself and relax. I'll run a bath, put a facemask (or about 4) on and just chill. It's become a part of my weekly schedule and I treasure it.
I bought this because it was pink and sparkly. I hate that I'm
that
person but it caught my eye and I'm so glad that it did. It smells so lovely and just clean and floral. Did I mention it turns your bath water pink?????? yes pls.
Buy it here:
10. SHOES
Words cannot explain my love these shoes! If you haven't heard me speaking about these whether it's in real life or over on my Instagram then you must have been living under a rock for the entirety of Feb.
On one of my many trips to TK Maxx, I found myself wandering through the shoe section (mainly disappointed because nothing exciting usually pops up in the size 3 section) and found these pretty things. My shoe knowledge is quite limited so I have no idea what these are called or where you can even get your hands on a pair like these but they're just wow.
Pink and velvet is a combo I never thought I needed until now. I thought they would be quite difficult to style but they fit right into my wardrobe so well and match so many of my outfits. These have truly made not only my year but just my entire existence overall.
Thanks for reading this post! If you want to see more like this please let me know :)
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AW18: Skincare & Makeup Faves | The Zafira Edit
Hi!
Ever since Uni began, my skin has become a metropolis for everything that's just not cute. Whether that's a herd of acne, horrifically clogged pores or dry alligator-like skin, you name it, my skin has been suffering from anything and everything. It's been quite the sh*t show.
To help combat all of this I've been using a range of things. I usually keep my skincare routine pretty simple and try not to change it that often because I know that since I have pretty sensitive skin, I have to be very careful with what I use. Because of this, I mostly use things that specifically say they are targeted towards dry and sensitive skin.
Like I've probably mentioned a million times now on my blog, I'm a uni student now which means one thing and one thing only. I'm broke 24/8. Skincare used to be the one of the biggest dents in my bank alongside makeup because my mindset was that if it cost more then it would probably be a lot better but I was so so so wrong. A lot of the skincare and few makeup bits I'll be mentioning in this post are all things you can find in drugstores such as Superdrug and Boots.
I love Rejjie Snow. I think he's talented and just super cute. I love everything about him so when I had heard he came out with a lip balm with a pretty great skin/body care brand I knew I had to get my hands on it. I actually ended up getting it as a gift for my birthday in June from my cousin but she ended up only giving it to me a few weeks ago lol. It's such a good lip balm. I honestly wasn't expecting anything as good as this. It's made with all natural products and it's vegan and it's the best thing you could ever put on your lips. I put this on a lot before wearing matte lipsticks and my lips don't get dry at all. I use this a lot at night too to keep my lips mosturised all night long.
I'd say the mini collection (well more like 2 items but ok) of Glam Glow products that I own are probably some of the more expensive items in my skincare routine but they are completely worth it. This is one of the quickest and most effective face masks ever. I use this nearly everyday because it really does refine your pores and make your skin look so much healthier overall. I am finally starting to look like I didn't just rise from the dead and it's truly amazing. You just pump out the smallest amount and apply all over. It's a funky purple colour but with Glam Glow, you're probably expecting the most vibrant and colourful of face masks. It applies like a normal face mask at first but after a couple of seconds it starts to bubble and turns into a frothy-like consistency. I like to use this in the shower because I just leave it on whilst washing my body and then wash it off once I'm done. It's fun, it's purple and it's a miracle. It's definitely something you should your hands on.
I've never been into products like this because I'm not a fan of super brightening and illuminating skin. I always find that I just look sweaty. I bought this in a set with the other Glam Glow product above and ended up trying it one morning before applying my makeup and it makes me look heavenly. The thing I love about it most is how mosturising it is. I have skin as dry as the Sahara desert and it still keeps it quenched all day long. It's not glittery at all but more luminous. It gives you the healthiest and most natural glow. It also smells a lot like children's antibiotic medicine which is a bit strange.
Much like the Vitamin E mist that I mention further down, I've been using Bio Oil for years now. It's so essential in my skincare routine. I mainly use this to get rid of acne scars and old eczema scars too. I think a lot of people get annoyed when using this because they don't see results straight away. You have to use it quite consistently for about a month or so and then you can really see a change. It's also a pretty good mosturiser for the body.
I was reading an article online that said that this is Bio Oil's first new product in 30 years. I saw this in Boots a week or so ago and I knew I had to pick this up. I've started to use this on my face and the gel consistency is wonderful. I don't even use the oil on my face anymore just this. It has a thicker and gel like consistency so it absorbs so much quicker into the skin and isn't as greasy. I could even get away with wearing this in the day now.
If you've been reading my blogs since the beginning then you'd know all about this baby. It's truly the love of my life. If I don't use this at the beginning of my day then I can
100%
tell that it is not going to be a good day. I use this just after washing my face in the morning as a somewhat pre-mosturiser, on my Real Techniques beauty sponge instead of using of water and then in the night after washing my face. It's one of the best things I've ever used on my face and it's one of the cheapest items in the my entire skincare routine.
Once upon a time I was in Superdrug having a little browse round when I spotted one of these So...? Body Mists. I gave it a little spritz and it smelt so so so good. I ended up buying it just so I could throw it in my bag. And in present day, I pretty much use these body mists everyday. They are so inexpensive and so handy for when you're out and about.
I am a massive face mask lover. I'm trying to get into the habit of using one at least once every week. It's the perfect way to relax and get healthier and happier skin. I've started using this sheet mask from Soap & Glory and it's a literal miracle just like it says. Since my skin is super dry, this mask combats the dryness so well and makes me look like I've bathing in mosturiser for days. It smells pretty good too just like most of the other Soap & Glory products.
I have never been a big eye shadow person but I think that was down to me wearing not a lot of colourful outfits. But now I've started incorporating a lot of colour into my wardrobe, makeup is starting to become a really fun and experimental thing rather than a daily chore. I recently bought a pair of flowy pants in this mermaid green colour and thought this was the perfect opportunity to venture out in the experimental makeup world. I also saw
and fell in love with the look. I haven't had a chance to actually wear this eye shadow yet but just swatching it and seeing how well it reflects the light makes me want to cover my entire body in it.
In my entire life, I have only used one foundation. It was the Bare Minerals Pure Brightening Serum Foundation and it worked so well that I didn't even bother trying anything else. But it started to become a bit expensive using a £28 foundation on a daily basis. I decided to venture out and went for this Maybelline Fit Me Foundation. Now I know I have dry skin but after applying all my mosturisers and oils in the morning, the last thing I want to do is apply something dewey that is going to intensify the shine from my mosturisers even more. This works perfectly. It matches my skin extremely well and has an amazing finish.
I think because I quite a few products before starting my makeup or thick products, my makeup tends to cake here and there which is not what I want
ever.
A few months ago, I decided to try out this powder from Collection and it's drastically changed my life. I've found that I don't get that annoying cake-like finish anymore and my makeup looks a lot more natural. I don't know whether it's the powder or just me finessing my makeup skills but my base makeup looks more set into the skin rather than just sat on top. I love this and it's so inexpensive!
Thanks for reading! (All the backgrounds of my photographs are pages of the latest issue of Dazed magazine)
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GRWM: Autumn Editon | Zafira
Hey!
Ever since I posted my summer GRWM in July, I've had a few messages asking if I would do more videos like that and honestly, I wasn't planning to since not a lot changes in my day to day makeup routine. But a few days ago, I was looking over photographs from over the summer and I look like a completely different person. It's crazy how much can change in a matter of months.
I decided to make another GRWM anyway but an Autumn edition. I would love to do these seasonally so I'll see how this one goes and make my mind up from there. I'm trying to get into doing and trying new things so maybe these GRWMs will be a good reason to try things (at least on my face).
Here's a list of everything I used in the vid:
Superdrug Vitamin E Mist
Mon Amour Lipbalm by Rejjie Snow x Neighbourhood Botanicals
Maybelline Fit Me Matte & Poreless Foundation in 350 Caramel
Collection Loose Powder in Translucent
Revolution Contour Palette in Medium
Mary Lou Manizer from The Balm
Revolution Palette in Newtrals 2 (blush & eyeshadow)
Revolution Soph Palette (gold eyeshadow)
NYX Professional Tame & Frame Brow Pomade in Black
NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Rome
Barry M Lip Liner in Chocolate
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Summer GRWM | Zafira
Hey!
I did a poll quite a while ago over on my Instagram asking what sort of video you would like to see next and the one that got the most votes was a summer get ready with me. My first ever YouTube video was a very glitchy grwm and a lot of people enjoyed that so I thought it would be perfect to an updated summer edition to switch it up a bit.
PRODUCTS USED:
Superdrug Vitamin E Mist
Burts Bees Lipbalm in Pomegranate
Bare Minerals Pure Brightening Serum Foundation in Bare Espresso
Maybelline Fit Me Matte & Poreless Foundation in 350 Caramel
Collection Loose Powder in Translucent
Revolution Contour Palette in Medium
Mary Lou Manizer from The Balm
Revolution Palette in Newtrals 2 (blush)
Zoeva Cocoa Blend Pallete - only used Substitute for Love
NYX Professional Tame & Frame Brow Pomade in Black
Maybelline Colossal Volume Express Mascara in Black
The Body Shop Lip Liner from about 10 years ago sorry this isn't available but any red lip liner will be more than okay
Max Factor Long Lasting Lipfinity Lipstick in Ever Sumptuous
I hope you enjoyed it!
Lots of love,
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The Start of Something New | Zafira
Hi guys!
You're probably like wth is this blog post all about but finally after a long time of over thinking, I've decided to properly start my own YouTube channel. It's something I've always wanted to do ever since I started watching YouTube videos, the process of creating new content whether it's a video or a picture makes me extremely happy and excited. I'm overjoyed to join another platform where I can express myself. I'm not sure how often I'm going to be uploading but I'll try and get some vids uploaded whenever I can. In the meantime, enjoy this glitchy get ready with me which was so awkward to film lol.
PRODUCTS USED IN THE VID:
Carmex Cherry Lip Balm
Superdrug Vitamin E Mist
Freedom Pro Conceal Palette in Medium/Dark
Bare Minerals Pure Brightening Serum Foundation in Bare Espresso
Collection Pressed Powder in Misty Beige
Sleek Face Form Contour Kit in Medium
Mary Lou Manizer from The Balm
Revolution Blush in Sugar
Zoeva Cocoa Blend Pallete - only used Freshly Toasted
NYX Professional Tame & Frame Brow Pomade in Black
Maybelline Colossal Volume Express Mascara in Black
Barry M Lip Liner in No.6
NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Rome
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Zoeva Cocoa Blend Palette Review, Swatches + Looks! | Zafira
Hi!
For my birthday, I was kindly gifted the Zoeva Cocoa Blend Palette from my cousin and since then, I've pretty much been using it everyday which is why I thought I that I would share it on here! I've never been an eyeshadow kind of girl, I usually just put a bit of bronzer or my contour shade on my eyelid and blend it out but once I started playing around with this palette, I fell in love instantly.
From what I've learnt in the makeup world (which honestly is not a lot) is that Zoeva is mostly really popular due to their brushes which I haven't tried but from the using this palette and seeing how good quality it is, maybe I will have to give them a go.
The packaging is super cute, but the one thing that stood out the most was how thin and lightweight it was. It's not bulky whatsoever which makes it perfect for travelling and on the go. There's no mirror which is kind of annoying but the eyeshadows definitely make up for that.
The product contains 10 shades which are:
Bitter Start - Palest matte nude.
Sweeter End - Shimmering duo chrome nougat.
Warm Notes - Glittering cranberry purple.
Subtle Blend - Metallic deep bronze.
Beans Are White - Deep cocoa brown matte.
Pure Ganache - Pure and luxurious metallic gold.
Substitute For Love - Toffee brown with subtle shimmer.
Freshly Toasted - Rich mahogany brown.
Infusion - Matte dark brown infused with golden glitter.
Delicate Acidity - Berry toned brown shimmer.
I think these are all quite versatile colours and can be used either day or night and for any occasion. My personal faves are Freshly Toasted and Infusion. All these colours are pretty warm toned and would look amazing on any skin colour. On the website the palette is described to be inspired by '
warm truffle colours, delicate nougat shades and shimmery marizinpan tones for a seductive glamour look
' which is very evident in the range of shades,
The colours are pretty pigmented especially for the price but nothing crazy which makes them really effortless to blend. They aren't chalky at all and swatch and apply very very very smoothly. They have no fall out whatsoever which is amazing and is the perfect affordable high quality palette!
Just look at how beautiful that pink looks! As you can tell, I've been trying out this palette and I'm pretty much in love with it.
'Pure Ganache' is another one of my favourite colours, it's such a pigmented and lovely gold shade.
The two shades I use the most are definitely 'Subsitute for Love' and 'Freshly toasted with the tiniest bit of 'Pure Ganache' in the inner corners but most of the time I usually use a bit of my Mary Lou Manizer in the inner corners also for a less intense look. A warm orangey/brown eye has been in since Autumn and I still see so many people with this look and the Zoeva Cocoa Blend palette is a great way to achieve it! I've pretty much been wearing this look everyday since my birthday. It's the perfect everyday eye.
Another look I've been adoring and wearing especially when there's a special occasion or event is using 'Freshly Toasted' in the crease and 'Pure Ganache' all over the lid as well as the tiniest bit of 'Subtle Blend' on the outer corner of the eye just to darken the gold shade. Throw on a bit of eyeliner and some mascara, maybe even some falsies if you're in the mood and it's the easiest look for any special occasion.
This is a look that I've been dying to wear but I've just not had the occasion or the chance to but it's so so so pretty, look at that pink! The shades I used for this look were a mixture of 'Substitute for Love' and 'Freshly Toasted' in the crease and then I packed 'Warm Notes' all over lid. It looks really cute and fun and girly and the pigmentation is amazing.
Overall, I'm blown away my this palette and I can't wait to start trying out a lot more Zoeva prodcuts, I'm thoroughly impressed!
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Prom! | Zafira
Hello!
So I decided to this weeks blog post on prom. I had my prom on Friday 15th July and it was probably one of the best days in my life! I had so much fun with all my friends dancing the night away and just enjoying myself. I thought it would be quite cool to try out a lookbook sorta thing with this post and show you what I wore, how I did my makeup and jewelry!
M A K E U P :
For the base I used:
L'Oréal Paris Infallible Priming Base - I don't wear primer because I usually don't wear enough makeup to need a primer but this is decently priced and does the job. I applied it around my nose and on my forehead where I get shiny the most.
Bare Minerals Pure Brightening Serum Foundation in the shade Bare Espresso - I'm not much of a foundation person, on a daily basis I'll usually just use concealer and a pressed powder with a little colour or just the powder on its own but when I found this foundation I was so happy. It's very very very light, I felt like I had nothing on all day. It's very liquidy so you can tell it's going to light. The coverage is amazing too, it's very buildable but I'm not a huge fan of full coverage so I usually only stick to one thin layer. The only issue I had with this is that it's not a long wearing foundation. When I came home after prom, I saw that areas like my chin and parts of cheeks had little or no foundation on them.
Freedom Pro Conceal Palette in the shade Medium/Dark - This is the second palette I've owned of this concealer and I love it! Again, I'm not a huge fan of full coverage but this covers enough and Freedom do a huge range of colours that suit many different skin tones which is amazing.
Collection Pressed Powder in Misty Beige - This is a pretty good, cheap drugstore powder as it only costs around £2. It doesn't have a very orangey undertone which is great and keeps your makeup in place. I just wish that I used it all over my face at prom rather than in certain areas.
Sleek Cream Contour Kit in Medium - This is a really good drugstore cream contour, I love the variation of shades and how you get a range of highlights and contour colours.
Sleek Face Form Contour Kit in Medium- This is my all time fave contour and highlight. More contour as you can see from the first picture as I've used nearly all of it up. I love this so much!
For brushes I used:
Real Techniques Core Collection - I love this collection. It has every brush I would need to do my base makeup and it comes with a case and I think it's very handy to have this.
Sleek 7 Piece Brush Set - As you can tell, I don't have all the brushes from the set in the pictures as I only use the eye ones and the blush brush which is use for putting powder on or highlight. They also fit pretty snug into the Real Techniques case so I have all the brushes that I need in one place.
Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge - I think this is a great alternative to the actual Beautyblenders, they're so much more cheaper and affordable. Even though I haven't used the Beautyblenders, I think the Real Technique sponges do an amazing job at blending everything together and creating a more natural and smooth appearance.
For lips I used:
Barry M Lipliner in No.6 - I love this lipliner so much. I think it's probably my fave. It's a pretty chocolate brown that you can wear on it's own and it stays on all day long or you can pair it with other lipsticks like I had done for prom to achive a nice browny nude.
Rimmel Lasting Finish Lipstick by Kate Moss in shade 08 - When I first bought and tried it on, I really didn't like it. The colour looked too light on my lips but when I paired it with the Barry M lipliner it created the most beautiful nude.
For eyes I used:
Makeup Revolution Palette in Redemption Iconic 1 - This works excellent seeing as it only costs £4. What I did for prom was wet the my brush a little and then picked up some eyeshadow in order to make it really pigmented and stand out but the colours are pretty pigmented on their own.
Collection Brow Kit in Brunette - I don't have brunette hair obviously but I feel like the three shades that come in this particular kit are less harsh and look very natural. I usually use the brown shade in the middle and then a little black right the end of my eyebrow just to make them a bit more fleeky. I also used the lightest brown shade in the crease as well as the darker brown in the outer edge and then put the gold eyeshadow from the Revolution palette more towards the center and inner part of my eye.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara in Black - I love this mascara. It's what I use on a more daily basis but for prom this was a necessity as I didn't want mascara all down my face as I was sweating away at prom. You can definitley build up the layers and it doesn't become clumpy at all. I was planning on wearing lashes at first but that was too much hassle and I can barely put them on.
Miss Sporty Studio Lash Liner in Black - This is so good seeing as it's drugstore and so cheap! It's probably one of the best eyeliners I've ever used. The brush is really thin so if you have small eyes like me and only want a thin line, it's really easy to do.
Here's the finished look!
O U T F I T :
I got my dress from a nearby Asian clothing store called Resham. They have amazing quality clothes and I love my dress so much. It's probably one of my fave Asian pieces.
I got my shoes from New Look. You can buy them here:
They're really comfortable and matched my dress really well. They were great to dance in too!
J E W E L R Y :
My earrings are from Dorothy Perkins. I tried looking online for them but I can't find them unfortunately but they're supper pretty and matched my necklace well.
I'm not actually sure where my necklace is from but I'm sure many places sell ones similar to it.
P H O T O G R A P H S :
I didn't take my big Canon EOS 60D because it would have just got in the way. However my dad let me borrow his Canon Powershot G10 and did the job perfectly. Follow me on Instagram as I'll be uploading some pictures from prom on there soon!