With Spring almost here, at The Amazing blog we just can’t wait for lighter mornings and longer days. However, we’re still in need of adding a little sun-kissed shimmer to our dull wintery skin. And what better way than to use some serious sparkle from a young and inclusive brand ST..essentials.
ST..essentials recently launched last year, and is more than just makeup it’s a movement. The brand is founded by Sheena Ellington and Temi Alebiosu, two young women who are both passionate about cosmetics. They have built this concept around their core brand values with a particular focus on inclusivity, making them a stand out from other traditional cosmetic brands. ST.. essentials wants to spread a message of positivity through their products, regardless of skin tone, sexuality or body size, so that everyone can glow! Their cosmetics are cruelty-free, vegan and eco-friendly. Wherever possible, products are refillable and ingredients are natural. Their aim is to make their customers feel pretty and confident while also taking care of the planet, “Within the brand, it is very important that everybody who comes in to contact with our brand, feels an instant vibe of positive energy.” This artisan brand offers a range of products that are not only handmade but affordable and easy to use.
They sent us two products, the first was the Eco-Friendly Shimming Body Glitter Gel in ST. Dhabi Gold. This is a must-have to get THAT glow and a great multi-purpose product that can be used on the face and body. We’d suggest using it as an brow shimmer or as a subtle touch to highlight cheekbones. It’s also perfect to use on the body to that dewy glistening look, and with the added plus of the vanilla oil, it gives out a sweet scent. Our personal favourite was to use it on our shoulders and decolletage to accentuate and catch the light. With the two different shades, it offers a choice of light or rich gold which will complement any skin tone. In the ingredients there is aloe vera which well known for its multiple benefits such as cooling and soothing; the macadamia nut oil here is filled with antioxidants, vitamins and essentials fatty acids, to nourish the skin as well as make it shine. The only ingredient here that we aren’t so keen on is the phenoxyethanol which depending on the amount in this product, may cause some skin irritation or sensitivity. The Shimming Body Glitter Gel works so well thanks to the eco-friendly tiny mica /titanium dioxide particles which gives the product its twinkle. this is, a natural ingredient that reflects ST..essentials' commitment to the environment. ST. Dhabi Gold here for £23.99, or as a refill at £10.99.
The brand also sent us their Eco-friendly Loose Glitter Eyeshadow Pigment in Silver Coast Once again, we loved the versatility of this product as it can be used on the face, body, hair or nails (under clear polish). Indeed, not only perfect for an ultra-reflective eye look but also perfect for adding a body highlight - we even used it with a stencil to create some body art. We recommend applying a small amount of a plant-based balm either with a brush or your fingers. This can be anywhere on your body, face, hair. Then sprinkle some Loose Glitter on it and you’re good to go. Please use with caution, when applying around your eye area due to the fine particles which might fall into the eye. It’s easy to remove and washes off with warm water and soap, or by using regular makeup remover. You’ll love experimenting with this Silver Coast Eco-Friendly Loose Glitter as well as their other six colours in the range, perfect for creating your own super-glam looks for getting ready for après-lockdown and the summer festivals (fingers crossed!). We feel it's important to highlight once again, that the pigments used here in both products are made using the finest of earth's natural ingredients, natural mica, a soft silicate mineral that can be found in many forms. You can purchase the Eco-friendly Loose Glitter Eyeshadow Pigment (in silver Coast) in 5g here for £7.00. These cosmetics will make you glitter like a goddess - even during lockdown!