Forget wanting a bouquet of roses from a loved one, that’s so 2017 and I’m beyond ready for the new year. Nope, from now on I say we ask, no demand to only have roses in the form of skincare and makeup.

From anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, to controlling excess oil and helping with hydration levels of the skin, roses aren’t known as the symbol of beauty for nothing. So when I was sent the Pixi Beauty Rose Essence Collection*, not only did I feel like I was in a Disney film opening the little padlock on the fairytale-esque box but I could not wait to unlock my beauty with roses. (hope you enjoyed my little lock pun there)

On the left I was greeted with skin treats in the form of the Rose Caviar Essence (£26) and Rose Flash Balm (£26). It should come as no surprise that both products are rose scented but it’s a very refreshing light fragrance opposed to the overly powerful rose talcum powder perfume we all fear. Obviously being skincare I wanted to try both products for a substantial amount of time to properly see the effects on my skin, so for the time being all other products have been put on hold and replaced with these every morning and night (or as much as my lazy self can manage) in the hopes that I will turn from beast to princess before the last rose petal is applied.

Rose Caviar Essence. How indulgent does that sound? I feel very prepared for the decadence too after eating a whole round of brie last week with truffles in the middle. Truffles!!

This concentrated conditioning essence contains rose oils and real rose petals that melt onto the skin restoring brightness and delivering some serious hydration. I’ve found it has a lovely cooling effect when applied, perfect after a long day at work and it doesn’t leave any stickiness or residue. I keep looking at the delicate rose petals inside wondering how they magically sink into my skin leaving it feeling refreshed and moisturised in seconds. It isn’t as thick as a standard serum which I really like, as applying heavy product after heavy product can make my skin feel clogged. In fact I’m pretty sure this stuff really is magic.

I was particularly excited to try the Rose Flash Balm, as I’m still on the hunt for the perfect moisturiser. This one is a hydrating radiance boosting balm that helps wake up tired and fatiqued skin to make you look like you’ve had that rare thing called a full night’s sleep.

Not too thick, this oil-free flash balm is a pleasure to use and sinks into my skin immediately. It definitely leaves my face feeling fresh but also with an ever so slight tightness, probably due to the natural astringent properties of rose water, that isn’t uncomfortable but does make me think it may not be rich enough for those of you with dry skin. A thin layer also acts well as a primer, creating a smoother base for your foundation and you can even apply a thick layer and use it as a face mask for an extra special treat.

So far I haven’t had any breakouts using the Rose Flash Balm, apart from my usual hormonal spots, which is pretty fabulous for my overly oily face and I find it gives me just the right level of moisture so that my skin feels hydrated but not greasy. Maybe this moisturiser is the one?!

 

As well as this gorgeous rose duo, I received the new MatteLast Liquid Lip Collection (£16 each). Infused with rosehip oil, these liquid lipsticks were designed to quickly set to a matte veil while leaving lips feeling comfortable and hydrated. Not only that, each Liquid Lip claims to be long-lasting with each shade being universally flattering and wearable.

These are bold statements for a matte liquid lipstick but I have to say after testing out each one I am very impressed and I can give you two words that will sum up why: Naps & Curry.

Every time I have a new lipstick, I test it out on my lips and take a photo to give you an accurate idea of what it looks like. Now on this occasion because I had five to try I needed a cuppa between each one (thirsty work this makeup malarkey) and there was almost zero transfer onto my mug. After the photography sesh, I decided a nap was in order and woke up to find my lipstick just as fresh as when it was first applied. I then proceeded to demolish a curry later that evening and it was still going strong. It didn’t even require a touch up!

The applicator of each MatteLast Liquid Lip is the unique Pixi petal applicator which is super soft and frankly just genius. It was very precise and applied so evenly it made me eager to remove one colour so I could apply the next.

I managed to achieve smooth uniform coverage with just two dips into the tube, although I’m sure one would suffice and I noticed only a hint of dryness by the end of the day. I’ve already packed the whole collection in my makeup bag for use over Christmas and I’m sure a couple will go missing once my mum sets her eyes on them.

MatteLast Liquid Lip shades:

Matte Beige

Really Rose

Au Naturelle

Pastel Petal

Evening Rose

 

Matte Beige

 

Really Rose

 

Au Naturelle

 

Pastel Petal

 

Evening Rose

Unfortunately, you can’t buy these products in the set I have received (although I am thinking of writing an email to encourage they do!) but you can buy everything individually online.

Now, if I could just have a rose foundation, rose coloured eyeshadows and pretty much every form of skincare with the essence of rose I’d be one happy lady.

 

Roses, aren’t red, they’re Pixi green and pink,

 

 

 

 

 

 

*Although these products are part of a PR package, I always give an honest review, where all opinions and views are 100% my own.

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