Real Techniques Core Collection review

I have finally got myself some Real Techniques brushes, the Core Collection kit to be precise. I've been wanting some decent brushes for ages, but as usual for me it takes getting a 20% discount code for me to actually part with my money. I got them from www.hqhair.com but you can also get them from Boots, Superdrug and other websites.

The core collection contains four face brushes; buffing, contour, pointed foundation and detailer.

The brushes are so lovely and soft and have a nice chunky handle to hold so they feel great to use. They also come in a case that can turn into a stand so are great for travelling with.

I have tried them all and have differing opinions on each. Firstly the positives; I love the buffing and contour brushes. They do exactly what they say on the tin (or plastic packaging) and they are really luxurious to use. Now the detailing brush, I could take it or leave it. I used it with concealer round my eyes and whilst it did the job, I think I could have done an equally good job, if not quicker with my finger. 

My least favourite is the foundation brush. In my opinion it is just too small. It took me ages to spread my foundation out using it and it wasn't looking very even. So I ended up taking my beauty blender to even things out and basically fix the mess the brush made. Harsh but true. I will try it again with a different foundation, but I think this will go mainly unused.

So, there you have it. My fairly brief ramblings on Real Techniques Core Collection. Do you have this collection, how do you find it? Or do you have one of the other kits? Let me know by commenting below.

MUA haul

I have been wanting the MUA brow kit since I first knew it existed. I've checked 5 different Superdrugs and they've all been sold out for ages! I saw it was still in stock on the MUA website, but begrudged paying £2.95 postage on something that only cost £3.50. 

Last weekend the MUA Facebook page advertised free shipping on orders over £20. This coincided with them teasing me with the new Top Model palette for only £7.

So I decided to have a little browse and see if I could make up an order for £20 to get my free delivery.

Here is what I got...

The Artiste Collection £6

Brow Kit £3.50

Britain's Next Top Model Palette £7

Intense Gloss in Smooch £2

Fashionista Super Length Mascara £1.50

Exactly £20 worth. Now I know I would have been better off just getting the brow kit and paying the postage, but then I wouldn't have all this great new makeup.

It arrived during the day yesterday and naturally I tried most of it this morning.

The mascara is great, does add length and provides nice definition without making your lashes look like spiders legs.

The gloss is a great every day colour and  seems to last really well.

The colours in the brow kit are great, but the brush is not the best. I like the idea of the brow gel as I normally use clear mascara, but will have to see if it matches up to last well through the day.

The Artiste Collection palette has some nice shades and I always rate MUA eyeshadows. The blush shades and contour and highlight also look great. Though I think I need a new brush to apply the contour as my fake Mac brush put it on far too heavy.

The Top Model palette is my experiment for tomorrow.

Adiós!