essence Summer update
As usual, essence is making the best of the season with fantastic additions to their line up.
Metal is the biggest trend they’ve dipped into, and very kindly sent me a bag of shimmering treasures to try. There are loads of other new launches, so go and have a squiz in store to see them all for yourself.
I’m going to start with my favourite because it really surprised me. I’m not the biggest fan of nail art or glitter polish, but I just adore the Metal Shock Nail Powder in Mirror, Mirror On The Nail (R65). You dab the impossibly mirror-like powder onto damp polish, allow to dry and seal with the Metal Shock Sealing Top Coat (R65) for an incredible metallic finish. You can play to your heart’s content. I tried both full nails, as well as an ombre, and both were super simple to do. There are 5 other shades to choose from, too!
If that sounds like too much faff, then give the Brushed Metals Nail Polish in I’m Cool With It (R45) a go. The formula delivers chrome-like shine in just two coats. There are 6 shades in total to pick from.
Metal Chrome Blush in My Name Is Gold Rose Gold (R65) is for the absolute shimmer lovers. The formula is soft and easily blendable, but is just too much for everyday wear for me. There are 2 other shades, as well.
The Instant Volume Boost Mascara Smudge-Proof and Intense Black (R65) is a complete winner for me. The dense brush grabs and coats every single lash for super volume in just one sweep.
Metal Shock Lip Paint in Mercury (R70) taps into the foil lip trend perfectly, but in a simple, easy to apply and wear way. The formula is silky and lasts ages. Choose from 5 additonal shades, too!
The Prismatic Hololighter Stick in Be Unique Be A Unicorn (R80) looks terrifying, but is actually super blendable, and can be layered for a more intense look. I have worn it during the day to give my complexion a lift, as well as at night for a full-on holographic glow.
Metal Shock Eyeshadow in Supernova (R80) is simple fabulous, too! Workable and easy to work with until it sets, and then it stays put! I had a bit of an issue with creasing after a few hours, but I’m heading toward my mid-thirties, so think this is just more suitable for younger eyelids. Still great fun, though and there are 7 shades to choose from.
My least favourite is the Vibrant Shock Lash and Brow Gel Mascara in Copper Up (R60) because it is the least wearable. I mean, molten metal brows and lashes are not exactly work appropriate. I guess it depends where you work, but for 99% of us, this is exclusively for dress up. It comes in 5 shades, and as the other shades are blue, purple and red, this and the silver are the tamest.
