Monthly beauty reviews: May 2016

Published: 
Listen to this article

The YP team tries some new beauty products to work out what’s worth splurging on, and what to leave on the shelf

Heidi YeungLauren JamesLucy Christie |
Published: 
Comment

Latest Articles

‘Oppenheimer’ finally opens in Japan

DSE 2024: To do well on English Paper 2, ensure your style is consistent

Hong Kong schools to hold National Security Education Day next month

Cetaphil Daylong SPF30 Ultra-light Gelfluid (HK$138 citywide)

Cetaphil – the brand known for its products for acne and eczema – has come up with a hero product to combat the dreaded sunscreen breakout, while protecting skin from dangerous UVA and UVB rays. The runny, moisturising lotion melts into skin, leaving a completely greaseless finish and light, summery smell. It survived a very sweaty run. I’m a big fan!

Lauren James

Hada Labo Super Hyaluronic Light Cream (HK$148 citywide)

This is a no-frills moisturiser that does a great job. The plastic tub is practical and the texture of the product feels like a cross between a classic cream and a gel. It absorbs easily into the skin and doesn’t leave a sticky, greasy residue or feel like it’s clogging up my pores, which is especially useful in Hong Kong’s hot, humid summers.

Lucy Christie

Mac Velvetease LipPencil Tease Me (HK$195 at Mac Cosmetics)

A chunky retractable pencil in a sweet candy floss pink. The first time I used it, it clung to the dry patches on my lips, emphasised all the small lines, and made it look like I’d just eaten a particularly sticky strawberry ice cream. I exfoliated on my second try, but the results weren’t wildly improved. Other reviewers say the problem is limited to just this awkward shade, but for such an expensive, well-respected brand, this came across as a cheap knock-off.

Lauren James

Make Up For Ever Aqua Eye Pencil XL in Matte Dark Brown (HK$190 at MUFE)

A pencil eyeliner that goes on smooth and doesn’t look too harsh is always a winner. It also claims to be waterproof, so I tested it while swimming and showering. I wasn’t left with panda eyes, so I would say this does the job. However, although the water itself didn’t wash it away, be careful of rubbing your eyes when drying off, as this is more likely to smudge the eyeliner than anything else. Bonus points for the fact that it comes off easily with make-up wipes, unlike a lot of waterproof products.

Lucy Christie

Revlon Colorstay 2-in-1 Compact Makeup & Concealer (HK$185 citywide)

It’s been a long time since I last wore cream foundation, and now I remember why: it’s a touch too heavy for me in Hong Kong’s climate. But! This offers nice coverage that looks natural and even; though I would advise using a damp beauty sponge or buffing brush to apply it, because the little flat sponge thing it comes with drags too much. I also don’t see a huge difference between the concealer and foundation parts of the product, but it is really exciting to see a drug store product catering to darker skin tones!

Heidi Yeung

Sign up for the YP Teachers Newsletter
Get updates for teachers sent directly to your inbox
By registering, you agree to our T&C and Privacy Policy
Comment