Gregg DeGuire/WireImageICYMI: Ashley Tisdale has launched her very own makeup line.
If you follow her on Instagram, you're well aware that Illuminate Cosmetics has been born. The starlet teamed up with BH Cosmetics to create an entire collection of multi-purpose palettes, tints and lip glosses. Now, I know what you're thinking: Do they really work? What are they like? Are they worth purchasing? Is there quality behind the celebrity name?
Well, I'm here to tell you...keep reading, because I dish it all out below.
The Product: Illuminate Cosmetics 12 Color Eye & Cheek Collection, $18
The Review: This is definitely the favorite of the collection. There are two eye shadow and blush palettes, one for daytime and one for nighttime, which make transitioning from the office to date-night easy. The Beach Goddess palette (for day) consists of softer and nude shades while the Night Goddess palette (for night) consists of darker and smokier tones.
Both have amazing mixes of matte and shimmery shadows and are incredibly easy to blend. They go on pretty transparent, so if you love subtly they're great. If you're looking for a little more color, just build away! Layering the shadow works wonders.
The Product: Illuminate Cosmetics Cream Cheek & Lip Tint, $9
The Review: I'm a little bias because, generally, I'm not a huge fan of creamy cheek products. However, this collection has some pretty spectacular colors. There are six shades to choose from (the star claimed she had all skin types in mind when she was creating), so you won't have any trouble finding one that's right for you.
The tint applies smoothly, but, like the palette, you're going to need a couple coats in order to see punchy color.
Conclusion: For the price you're paying, these products are pretty great.
The Packaging: The palette boxes feature metallic stripes (think: Henri Bendel but in a rose-gold sheen) with shabby-chic, distressed, gold foil-like accents. Inside, the stripes continue in a pale pink with peach accents. The check-and-lip tints are encased in circular, plastic white cases smaller than your typical blush compact.
The Review: Honestly, I'm not a fan of the packaging, which I'm assuming aims to feel luxurious but feels even more budget-friendly than drug-store alternatives.
It's what's on the inside that counts.