Hey Beauty Buddies…
On Wednesday morning a rather chic looking package fell through the door as Mr postman delivered a complimentary tube of False Lashes Extreme Black Mascara courtesy of MAC…
Yes, you can imagine my shrills of excitement at being able to road test one of our most yearned for cosmetic brands much loved mascara.
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Is high-end reeeeeeeally worth the spend?
Before application I had already prepped my eyes and donned a full face of makeup so I was hoping my steady hands would hold up to the job! I must admit the teeny tiny little tube didn’t make the application process somewhat easy, in fact it was pretty tricky trying to manoeuvre around those delicate little internal lashes – one wrong move and the smudge would’ve been a biggy.
*Above: Before Application*
*Above: One Coat*
In my opinion there’s a small variety of products you simply DON’T skimp on… foundation being one of them, however as for mascara I’m always pretty open to trying any newbies at (most) price ranges. Yet to be brutally honest, drug stores are so utterly jam packed with tantalising tubes in a variety of colours I never really feel the need to browse high-end alternatives… and anyways, it would take a heck of A LOT to beat my Rimmel Scandaleyes 😉
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Let’s talk Formula…
The formula of MAC False Eyes Extreme Black is undoubtedly very creamy, unfortunately though on first application the name somewhat diminished my expectations… I was expecting lashings of length & droves of drama, topped off with a blacker than black appearance. However after studying it from an array of difference angles it simply looked, well… erm… like a normal ‘every day’ mascara. In fact ladies, I have a cheap and cheerful mascara from GOSH that has an incredibly similar finish for less than half the price.
Above: Two coats
Building on the second coat I was (yet again) preparing myself for great things but it just didn’t transpire to what the name suggested… ‘FALSE LASHES’ ‘EXTREME BLACK’… instead I achieved a rather somewhat dainty looking lash that seemed pretty pleasing to the eye but nothing what I would consider ‘false’ looking or otherwise overly excitable. Is it just me? Am I really too picky to please? *sigh*
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Final thoughts?
Don’t get me wrong it’s MAC so of course it’s going to be a quality product, but is it really worth the £19 investment compared to an average £7 from a Superdrug shelf? Honestly gals, I’m not sure it is. I know, I know… it paaaains me to say this but MAC False Lashes Extreme Black didn’t give me false looking lashes nor were they any blacker than a standard mascara formula. On this occasion I’m under the impression you’d simply be shelling out your hard earned cash for a renowned name stamped on a chic looking tube as opposed to the suggested claims of what the product can do to benefit your lash requirements!
To sum it all up: if you’re on the lookout for a high-end, comfortable, everyday mascara that doesn’t flake, crumble and gives somewhat of a feathery finish then I’m pretty sure you’ll love this product. However if you’re dreaming of creating a dramatic lash look that has a false-looking effect then I’d say keep hold of your pennies and invest a fraction of the cost on Seventeen’s Falsifeye HD Mascara instead – it does a fab job of making sure your lashes pack a lengthy punch without the hefty spend.
*Above: Mac False Lashes Extreme Black – final look!*
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Have you tried the MAC False Lash Extreme Black? What’s your favourite must-have mascara? Are you a high end spender or drug store devotee? Whatever your thoughts I’d love to read them in the comments below so do pop by and say a quick hello!
Wishing y’all an awesome weekend 🙂
Cheerio chums…
…
PS: HAVE YOU CHECKED OUT THE CONFETTI & CURVES GIVEAWAY YET? *CLICK HERE* TO FIND OUT MORE HOW YOU COULD WIN AN URBAN DECAY NAKED PALETTE OF YOUR CHOICE!
Awesome post. I received mine too and I am currently testing it out before writing up my review 😊 xx
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Ooooh yaaaaaay – looking forward to seeing your thoughts on it too Mecia 🙂 XXX
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HI,Your eye make up looks lovely,the mascara did look good buy there is no way I would spend more than £8 on a mascara and I do feel you are paying for the name
I am on a tight budget and there are certain skin care and make up products I would pay the price for but mascara is not one of them. Great post.
Dawn X
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Thanks so much Dawn 🙂 I’m with you on this too – in fact I honestly don’t think there’s any need to spend any more than £8 on mascara – especially with the range of drug store offerings! Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing your thoughts 🙂 XXX
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Oh wow it looks so cool!
CANDICE | BEAUTY CANDY LOVES
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Thanks Candice x
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I’ve got a tube of this coming hopefully and I’m quite excited to try it. It’s a shame you weren’t a massive fan as your eye lashes look beautiful and fluttery. Xxx
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That’s the thing Molly, the mascara isn’t by any means bad it’s just not what it says it is – very frustrating as if it was branded as ‘everyday wear’ or ‘fluttery lashes’ (lol) it would be pretty bang on… just not what I would consider a false effect or extreme black compared to others I’ve tried. For £19 I’d reeeeeeeally want it to stand up to its claims *sigh* Maybe it’s just my stubborn lashes… hoping you have more luck with the results huni 🙂 Thanks so much for stopping by XXX
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I completely know what you mean, I hate it when things leave you a bit underwhelmed after reading the claims. You still looked lovely though! I’ll keep you posted on what I think xxx
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Awwwh thank you huni – so kind!!! 🙂 Yes, I’m so with you – does leave you feeling a bit deflated, especially when it’s such a reputable name! *sob* xxxx
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I wasn’t a fan of this mascara either. It didn’t do much for my lashes unfortunately.
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Such a shame 😦 X
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Can’t win them all I guess.
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The MAC mascara is lovely and the entire eye makeup supplements the mascara even more picture perfect and altogether is absolutely stunning. Love your blog. If you fancy a read, check onto my blog https://lifestylebites3.wordpress.com
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Thank you so much huni 🙂 Glad you like it!! Thanks for sharing your link – looking forward to checking it out XXX
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Great review! I think these products tend to promise the world, but often fail to impress. Still, I think it looks fabulous, and actually, quite natural!
Btw…you have the most beautiful blue eyes!!! (Jealous over here! Hehe!)
My favourite mascara is benefit’s ‘they’re real’ – a beauty must-have, in my opinion!
Have a wonderful weekend, my friend! Xxx
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Thank you so much lovely lady 😀 Yes, that’s exactly my grumble Amanda, it’s a lovely mascara but not false or over blacker than black…. I really think they got the branding of this wrong. ‘Natural Eyes’ or something like that would have been a bit more acceptable lol Must check out the Benefit range as it’s something I haven’t tried yet 🙂 Have a super weekend too gorgeous gal – hope it’s a good one for us both ❤ Xxxx
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Karen great review love how honest you are have never used Mac mascara i have always used Lancome but when it runs out I will be picking up Seventeen to try out xx
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Thanks so much huni, I’m so glad you enjoyed it 🙂 Honestly I’d really recommend you give the Seventeen a go – for the price it’s superb! Have a great weekend lovely XXX
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Lovely review Karen.
I totally agree with you and to be honest, I can hardly tell the difference between a high end and budget mascara in most cases. I prefer mine at the upper end of budget (i.e. loreal,max factor) but it is really almost all the same thing 🙂
xxx Anne
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Thank you so much Anne! Honestly I’m not hugely familiar at all with higher end mascara’s as I genuinely think the choice in drug stores is pretty impressive… I’d much rather invest extra in foundation or skin care! One of the best mascara’s I’ve tried recently is the Rimmel Scandaleyes Lycra flex & the Lash Accelerator… both round about £8 which is great 🙂 Like you say it really is all the same thing XX
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I agree, I prefer to spend my money on other high end things (like lipstick 😉
I am currently testing a Dior and I really like it, but I am not sure I like it three times better than my drugstore mascara’s… xxx
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I know you’re a high end lippy gal only too well 😉 hehe Oh really? Is it a bit of a blooper buy too? High end for lips, foundation & shadow… mascara = drug stores best value 🙂 Oh I meant’ to ask, have you by any chance tried anything from the Tom Ford range?? XX
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No, it is a lot better than the Mac based on your description. It is nice enough and I will finish it, it just isn’t worth that much more money to me.
No, not yet! I head there was a TF counter in Amsterdam, but it was tiny with only a couple of lipsticks and quite disorganised. So no purchase yet, but I am looking at some stuff. Price has been putting me off though. xxx
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Yes, I think the price is pretty eye watering too… I was just wondering if you had tested and felt they were worth the splurge as just can’t quite justify the treat right now *sigh* XX
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If I am honest, not really. You are probably better off buying a good lipstick or a great blush/powder/foundation
xxx Anne
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I tried this too and had very similar thoughts!!xx
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Glad I’m not the only one huni!! I was a tad unsure if I’d get gasps of shock being a MAC product lol X
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I was a bit shocked when I tried it! I certainly have drug store ones that are better xx
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I know, it really is a shocker Ana…. I think I built it up to be a lot more than it was with the reputation MAC have! I think we’ll stick to drug store from now on lol Looking forward to catching up with Ravishing Roses posts today 🙂 XXX
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Oooo yay! Hope you enjoy. I love a good sunday blog read. 🙂 xx
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Am on and off at the moment – wish I could just get a few good hours to absorb!!!! lol XXX
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How disappointing! I think the problem is that drugstore brands have got their formulas so on point it’s hard to make anything that ten times better!
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I know Kayla – it’s not bad, just not what it says it is (if that makes any sense) You’re so right… drug stores have such a great range there really is no need to heavy spend on mascara’s! Hope you have a fab weekend lovely 🙂 XXX
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I’ve never tried any MAC mascaras, so your review is definitely something to consider!
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Thanks so much Jamie 🙂 Honestly I’m not sure the spend is entirely worth it – Mac are renowned for their awesome lippies and face products, however I think drug stores offer a better range of mascara for a fraction of the price 🙂 X
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I’ve heard a few people say that they felt MAC mascaras fell short for the brand. I guess the brand is so successful in other areas that they don’t feel the need to invest more in their mascaras? Though you’d think they’d want to be a solid all-around brand!
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I think you’re spot on Jamie 🙂 The rest of their range is so successful but as you say isn’t it better to carry that through in everything than over charge and fall short on one range? Surprising for MAC I was expecting awesome results!! X
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Gorgeous Karen! I think everyone has their mascara preferences and how they like their lashes to look – you shouldn’t feel guilty because this one wasn’t your favourite xx
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Thank you so much Chanelle… I know what you mean 🙂 Had to be honest otherwise it wouldn’t be a worthy review at all!! have a great weekend huni XXXX
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Hope you have a great weekend too lovely ❤ x
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Thanks sweetie – taking it easy, have had a good long break from the laptop this weekend! Much needed 😀 XXXX
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Great review Karen! Looking beautiful as always! 🙂 Sorry to heat hat this mascara didn’t live up to it’s expectations. I was really hoping it would. I find that drugstore mascaras work just as good if not better than high end ones. My favorite mascara that I use is the Maybelline Lash Sensational. Though I find that applying mascara is one of my least favorite things to do! lol. I hope you’re having a great Friday!! ❤ *Hugs Hugs* XXXXX
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Awwh thank you chummy 😀 I know I was reeeeeally gutted it didn’t live up to it’s name 😦 Having said that it’s not bad… just not what I expected. To be honest though I think it’s waaaaayyy over priced as the drug stores have some major competition for a fraction of the cost!! Haven’t tried the Maybelline so might have to give that a go!! Rimmel Lash Accelerator & the Flexi Scandaleyes is very good too 🙂 Yes, it’s not my fav part of makeup application either lol Have a wonderful weekend lovely *huge hugs back at ya* 😀 ❤ XXXX
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You’re welcome Karen 😀 I have heard good things about the Rimmel Lash Accelerator too. I really would like to try that one sometime. I need to finish the mascara I have first though. I don’t like ending up with too many opened mascaras lol. Well I hope you have a wonderful weekend too! 😀 ❤ XXXX
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Honestly Katie it really is great stuff 🙂 Yep, I’m like you in the mascara dept… need to clear up my current stash before I go trying any more – though I did get a new one today from Model Co I paid £1 and it’s worth £14… had to be done! lol XXXX
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Oh well that’s a great deal! Definitely had to be done!! 😀 XXXX
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You still look super fab Karen! And I love your piercing!
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Awwh thank you so much lovely 😀 Glad you like it!!! X
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You have amazing eyes! Wow! Have you heard of this 3D fiber mascara from Younique? I’m totally in love! The fibers are 100% black green tea fibers and you use it with their gel. It is $29 (23 in the UK), but it gives you the volume and length plus it has totally eliminated my need for a curler (no joke check out my blog and video here: https://gratefulnerd.wordpress.com/2015/05/14/sayonara-eyelash-curler/). Plus it lasts you 3+ months and comes with a fab case! https://www.youniqueproducts.com/LaSarah/products/view/US-1017-00#.VVqgv_lViko Definitely gives the look of false lashes (when you desire to achieve that). This stuff is awesome (and if it doesn’t work out you can get a full refund no questions if returned within 14 days, 80% refund after 15-30 days)!
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Thank you sooo much – what a kind compliment 🙂 Yes, I’ve heard of Younique but yet to try it out – apparently it’s amazing so very excited to try it out 🙂 Really looking forward to checking out those links so thank you so much for sharing!!! XX
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Your welcome! Let me know when you do I’d love to hear what you think!
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Will do lovely 🙂 Thanks again XXX
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I got sent this mascara when I placed an online order with MAC I completely agree with you, the name false lashes doesn’t really suit it as it doesn’t give you much length or volume I did like it as a bottom lash mascara however xox
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Yep = agreed 100%!!!!! Brill for the bottom lashes but not at all what the name suggests elsewhere! Glad I’m not alone with my thoughts lol XXXXX
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I received this in the post this week too! Going to give it a try over the next few days. I love reading really honest posts like this though, people don’t do it enough. xo
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Thank you so much Lucie, I’m so glad you appreicated the honest opinion – I think it’s so important to give realistic feedback regardless of brand 🙂 Hopefully you’ll enjoy testing it out huni! Have a wonderful weekend and thank you so much for stopping by ❤ xo
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I would never buy expensive mascara ever! Great and honest review! 🙂
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Thanks so much Kris, I’m beginning to think that higher end has very little to offer other than a higher price tag!! Too much great choice in the drug stores for a fraction of the price 🙂 X
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Great review. I agree – the drugstore has SO many good options, I just can’t justify paying more than $10 for a good mascara. I’ve tried a few MAC mascaras and none of them wow’d me enough for me to fork over twice the money compared to a drugstore one – the effect most certainly was NOT twice as good in terms of length or volume! 😛
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Thanks so much huni 🙂 I’m with you on the choice that drug stores have to offer… personally I just don’t think high-end offers any great advantage at all! Keeping my money and sticking to the cost effective alternatives that are just as good (if not better!) 😉 xxx
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Yay for a MAC mascara. Usually the packaging and name gets us women. Companies definitely do their fair part in the marketing aspect which makes us want to buy, buy buy! It looks good on you! One if my fave mascaras- loreal voluminous carbon black! Happpppy Fricheetoooo (you like my made up word?) day!! Xo💜
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Thanks so much huni 😀 And yes… happy Cheeeeeetoo day ❤ XXXXXX Love the made up word!!! 😉
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Hooray! Glad you like it. Next, it’s going to be published in the dictionary since it got your stamp of approval! 👍🏻 <333 xo
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Of course…. it’ll be a household word before you know it lol 😀 XXX ❤
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It already is a household word! Flora uses it a the time 😀 <33
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lol lol xxxx
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Great post Karen! That is awesome they sent it to you but stinks it didn’t work out. I have super oily eyelashes and I have yet to find my favorite mascara. I usually layer 2 different brands to get a decent look but it always just comes off on my eyes throughout the day. Hope you have a fantastic Friday xoxoxo Janet
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Thanks so much indeed Janet 🙂 I know I’m so gutted it didn’t match up to what the name suggested! Like you I tend to drift around trying different mascaras though I have had best results with the Rimmel range (so far) Need to try a few L’Oreal products as apparently they’re quite good 🙂 Wishing you an awesome weekend lovely lady XXXX
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Sorry it did not work out. Your eyes are amazing!!! Sorry got distracted there! Great post!
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lol lol Thanks so much Cos – you’re so darn lovely 😀 XXXXX
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If MAC sent this to me? I’d faint!
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Thankfully no need for medical intervention here huni – but I get your point! lol Hope you’re having a great weekend 😀 Xxxx
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What a huge compliment to receive that from MAC!! 👍👋
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Oh you can pre-order the samples Janice on the UK Facebook page – I was probably one of millions, I’m in no way the chosen one haha XXXXx
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I had no idea!! I’ll have to check into that for the US.
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Do huni – they had it running through their Facebook page… could be good to keep an eye on it 🙂 X
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I received a sample of this and while I love MAC, sadly, this is one product I would not purchase. Nothing special about it really as it doesn’t really give volume, at least none I can see. Good everyday mascara but you can find cheaper versions. Good and honest review. 🙂
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That’s my thoughts EXACTLY Stephie – not a bad product, relatively okay for everyday wear but most definitely NOT what it says it is… bit of a let down for MAC & anyone investing the hefty price tag for something pretty average. Hope you’re having a great weekend chum 🙂 XXXX
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Yeah. For mascara, Lancôme was definitely a favorite of mine but lately even that one seems to be a bit of a letdown. 😦
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Hate it when that happens Steph… I’m the same with my beloved Rimmel foundation – I think they’ve changed the formula or my skin is just being awkward *sigh* Just letting me down! Just as well there’s plenty others lol Hope you’re keeping well chummy *hugs* XXX
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I know right? I feel like formulas change over time which can be a good or bad thing. You know, the weather over here is crazy so if that’s how it is over there, it can be the reason your skin reacting. Over here I have dry skin one minute and oily with breakouts the next. Oy! Yes, at least there are other great products out there though it is a bummer when your favorites are changed. Doing good over here despite some sinus headaches. Hope all is well over there too! xo *hugs*
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Of course – it could well be the weather, especially now the sun/heat is making a regular appearance! Thanfully the Boots No 7 foundation seems to be doing a somewhat decent job of holding up a bit better… shall see how we go 😀
Oh poor you and your sinus headaches, I suffer with them too Stephie – including migraines. Not fun at all 😦 hope you’re taking as good a care of yourself as possible chum!! XXXXXXXX
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Here’s to hoping the Boots foundation works better. 🙂 And yes, I have never really suffered from sinus headaches before but oh my, I feel your pain. Yes, I am trying that Netti Pot thing. Wish me luck, lol.
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Fingers crossed chum!! Oh gosh they’re awful Steph – utterly exhausting 😦 Haven’t tried that personally but wishing you luck with it indeed lovely 😀 XXXX
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I can imagine. A nuisance for sure. I’ll let you know how that goes. 🙂
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I agree with you that some drugstore mascaras are as good as high end if we can find the right formula that works. Especially if we use it everyday mascaras will finish up and it would be great if we don’t have to spend so much on the high end products. I used to use Dior’s mascara because I couldn’t find anything in the drugstore until recently when I discovered Loreal Manga’s mascara. The price is definitely more reasonable.
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Thanks so much for your feedback huni – funnily enough I’ve spotted l’Oreal’s Manga mascara in alot of beauty bloggers favs… it seems to be a great buy for that look 🙂 I don’t think I’ll be investing in high-end any time soon! X
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Great review! Enjoy reading these
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Thanks so much Vanessa 😀 That’s such a kind comment huni… hope you’re having a fab weekend ❤ XXXX
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I’m having a great weekend! Thanks for asking me! Hope your having a great one too!!
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I sure did Vanessa thanks so much 😀 XX
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Ooh you lucky lucky devil! it looks lovely… especially beautiful in the 2 coat picture 😁 xxx
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lol lol Thanks Natalie 😀 If you head over to the website I think they still (might) have some samples left for giveaway 🙂 XXXXX
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what does it come under? xxx
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Oooh Natalie – it was on their Facebook page!!!!!!! Not the website… check their FB instead huni XXX
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I’m not on Facebook – Boo!! haha, never mind :)) I’m glad you like it 😁😘 xxx
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Oooh shame 😦 Are you sure they don’t have it on their website?! I’m surprised! XXX
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Not that I can see as I am on the mobile site… I will check the standard site in a bit, usually there are more options xxx
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Not spotting it either… you might need to sign up with them *sigh* Anyways – hope you get sorted. Have a fab week lovely lady *huge hugs* XXXXXXX
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Beautiful!!! Love those lashes girly!
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Thank you so much huni 🙂 XXX
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Welcome 🙂
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You have the prettiest eyes! such a gorgeous blue!!! 😍😍😍😍
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Awwh thank you sooo much Brooke!!! Rather chuffed you like them hehe Hope you’re keeping well gorgeous lady ❤ XXXXXXXX
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Oh they are sooooo pretty, you’re very lucky! ! =D ♡ I am thanks, hope you are too!!! =D ♡ ♡ ♡ xx
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lol thank you sooo much lovely 😀 Sure am huni ❤ XXXXXX
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Pingback: Keeping Up With Karen… | Confetti and Curves
Don’t you just love when you get products that you didn’t know was coming?!? I agree with you though, I don’t notice anything that dotes on the “false lashes look”. I achieve the same look with my brand new Covergirl Super sizer mascara!
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Sure they don’t?!?! It’s a nice ‘fluttery’ look Taylor but I can get that with a £6 Rimmel mascara from the local Superdrug *sigh* nothing special from MAC in this little packet unfortunately *sob* xxx
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Oh it looks great! I need to get this mascara!
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Thank you so much chum 🙂 XXX
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Wonderful post Karen ❤
Sorry it didn't work, but your eyes look amazing ❤ 😀
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I know, I was a bit disappointed by it too when I read the branding & it just didn’t correspond at all 😦 Awwh that’s such a lovely compliment – thank you!! 😀 XXXXX
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