This week my beauty picks are all heroes for me both personally and professionally. When online shopping is your only option, quick delivery is a must. With Brexit throwing a spanner in the works, I wanted to bring you some products that are not necessarily all Irish brands but are available from Irish stockists. Small businesses are being hit hard right now so it’s nice to support our very own. And why not treat yourself while you’re at it. God knows we all deserve it!

Dreamweave Magnegenics Mascara

This mascara made waves on Instagram when Irish makeup artist Alyson Smyth became a stockist for the brand. Following on from Dreamweave Lash Construct, Dreamweave Magnegenics is described as a one-step wonder that thickens, lengthens and defines. It is a 3 in 1 silicone formulation that claims to coat each lash from root to tip.

I have become firm friends with this mascara over the past year. As we are all advised to avoid touching our face and eyes, mascara that does not budge is a major requirement. This is my go-to when I have a long day at work. There is nothing more disappointing than discovering a new mascara that gives you the lashes of dreams only to find it crumbling and flaking a few hours later - cue constant eye rubbing and irritation. Magnegenics is extremely long-lasting. It looks as good at the end of the day as it does at the start. My lashes are lengthened, defined and set for the entire day. This formula does not smudge, print or flake making it ideal for contact lens wearers.

Nioxin

Having heard a lot about this product range, I was curious to try it. Nioxin is a range designed for thinning hair with multiple products for varying levels of hair loss. I have reasonably good hair - it’s healthy but it can be fine. When it’s overdue a cut - which it most certainly is now – it can feel weighed down and lank. I also have fine baby hairs at both sides of my hairline that break easily and never grows like the rest of my hair. Throw in some lockdown greys and those areas have started looking more sparse than before.

I love to use various volumising products in damp hair before styling but since using Nioxin for the past 3 weeks, I don’t feel the need. Just using the shampoo, conditioner and scalp treatment is enough to add fullness and density to my hair and it no longer feels limp. It also smells minty fresh! I can’t comment on the growth in any thinning areas at this early stage but so far I’m beyond happy with the results. My stylist recommended system 3 for me which treats fine coloured hair. If you visit the Nioxin website they provide a quick and easy consultation so you can choose the correct products for your concerns. The scalp treatment warns that some redness might occur. And it did! This is due to increased blood flow and it is short-lived so don’t be alarmed. Of course, if you experience discomfort please stop using it immediately.

Danessa Myricks Colour Fix Matte 24 hr

Danessa Myricks Beauty Colorfix 24 hr in Exposed €19.99 — *Danessa Myricks Beauty Colorfix 24 hr in Exposed* *€19.99*

A recent purchase for me and a product I’ve been dying to get my hands on for quite some time. And since Makeup by Claire became an Irish stockist this brand has become easily accessible.

This is a multi-use product that can be used on the eyes, lips and face. I have started wearing shade Exposed - a gorgeous soft nude, like chocolate, malt milkshake – and it is perfect for an everyday eye look. Color Fix Mattes are easy to blend but need to be blended quickly. The formula is fast drying which makes it incredibly long-wearing. A super quick eye makeup has never been easier! The matte finish looks soft and flattering on the eye and can be worn alone or as a base for powder shadow for greater intensity. With 37 shades in the matte range to choose from, there is a colour to suit all tastes.

Stila Convertible Colour Cream Blush

This two-in-one blush and lip colour from Stila has been around for what feels like an eternity. I love a product that stands the test of time and I love a good double-duty product to save both time in the morning and space in a makeup bag. Convertible colour lifts the complexion with its dewy finish. Skin looks healthy and subtly flushed and application is easy. Simply use your fingers in a tapping motion across the apples of the cheeks. Tapping product into the skin is a gentle way to blend and build colour that won’t disrupt your base. Apply to powder-free cheeks for a fresh, luminous and smooth finish.

Pestle & Mortar Pure Hyaluronic Serum

This hugely popular serum by Irish brand Pestle and Mortar really does live up to the hype. Hyaluronic acid has become such a buzz-ingredient, and rightly so. Although it is naturally occurring in the body, it does become depleted, especially as we age. Using skincare containing Hyaluronic acid helps draw moisture into the skin and hold it there. This serum absorbs quickly whilst leaving skin plumped and hydrated, making it the perfect serum to use prior to moisturiser and makeup application. It can be used by all skin types – even oilier skin types need hydration- so it really is a product suitable for everyone. If you have a preference for fragrance-free products this one is for you.

Ailbhe Lynch, February 2021.