Top Five: Products of 2013

One of the best things for me about writing about beauty products is the way that I have to really look at a product. Rather than just appreciating a product for its colour or finish, I mull over every aspect of it; from the packaging and production to the texture and scent. When you are analysing a product in such detail, it does make you think and putting all those thoughts down in a non-rambling kind of way can be tough.

I have been lucky enough to come across some amazing products over the past twelve months and to round off the year, I thought I would take a little time to reflect upon some of these marvels and pick out my favourites.

After much deliberation, whittling down and many sleepless nights (I may have exaggerated a little there), here they are - in no particular order; my Top Five Products of 2013...

London Brush Company Brush Shampoo

Brushes are a vital part of any Make-up Artist's kit and one that needs a lot of care and attention. Having initially heard about about this on the make-up grapevine, I finally managed to get my hands on a pot at a trade show. Safe to say I haven't been disappointed, the shampoo easily removes products of all descriptions from both synthetic and natural bristle brushes. One of the things that I love about this brush shampoo is the feel of the bristles once they are cleaned and dried; Beautifully soft and smooth.

Read more about the LBC Brush Shampoo

Vapour Soft Focus Foundation

This is a stunning liquid foundation that has become a staple of my kit. The texture is smooth and silky and despite the absence of silicone, it glides on with ease. Great for all but the driest of skins, Soft Focus disguises fine lines and minor blemishes, leaving the skin looking radiant and glowing.

See what I had to say about Vapour Soft Focus Foundation

 

alva Baked Bronzer

Initially a PR sample, this is only the second bronzer that I have really fallen in love with. Wonderfully light in texture, alva baked bronzer has a subtle, barely there coverage that can be built up giving the skin a radiant luminosity and leaving you with a completely natural looking sun-kissed glow. Now a permanent fixture in my kit, it is now my go-to product for adding natural colour to female models and artists.

Find out more about alva Baked bronzer

Beyond Beauty Age Defying Serum

Being a bit of a sceptic on the whole anti-ageing specific thing in general, I was completely blown away by this serum from Beyond Beauty. Initially sent to me as a PR sample, I instantly fell in love and I swear, a week of using this and my skin looks at least five years younger (continuous use don't mean ever increasingly youthful skin by the way). Maybe not a product I would use in my kit on a regular basis (I would keep raiding it!), I would definitely recommend to clients and anyone else who asks!

Want to know more? Read on..

 

Kjaer Weis Eyeshadow in Pretty Purple

Certainly my favourite eye product of 2013, Pretty Purple is a glorious celebration of colour, glitter and... subtlety? A beautiful muted tone, Pretty Purple is perfect for those wishing to dip their toes into the potentially riotous world of mauves and violets - but without the violence! Velvety in texture and easily blend-able, it one colour that I will be returning to again and again!

Hankering for more info? Take a peek

 

Be it skincare or make-up, what were your stand-out products of 2013?

Main Image: Christmas Stock Images

Body Images: Kjaer Weis, Beyond Beauty, alva Skincare, London Brush Company