Even with the most elaborate eye make-up those dark under-eyes can make you look sallow, tired and (the worst of all) old!
As a sufferer of noticeable, although not completely tragic (Ricky Butcher), dark circles, I have tried many under-eye highlighters which promise 'radiant' and 'luminous' results, yet despite sometimes spending up to £25 I am always disappointed.
When my go-to brand for bath and body treats, Soap&Glory, released a new cosmetics line I actually got more excited about their shimmery bronzers than their concealer. I thought, if the top-end brands can't deal with the dullness, what chance did a high street pharmacy brand notorious for their 3 for 2's have?
O ye of little faith!
S&G is famous for its bright and quirky packaging (I love the puns) and 'Kick Ass' is no exception! The product itself comes in a small compact comprising of three clever little elements to hide your flaws.
The bottom layer holds step one 'under eye brightening concealer' and step two 'superwear face concealer' in equal quantity. Step three, 'concealer sealing powder' is on a hinged shelf which covers the first two steps and there is even a tiny, patting sponge and mirror making the multi-tasking little compact a storage solution that Ikea would be proud of!
Although the first two steps are extremely light and creamy I advise using a moisturising primer before application. I use Bare Escentuals 'skin rev-er upper' as it's not too greasy on my combination skin.
- Step one, in my opinion, is the most impressive. RIP Dark circles! It glides on, giving a full yet not too synthetic coverage. I highly recommend using a concealer brush for application: the consistency is so creamy and light that fingers will take too much product and result in wastage ( I HATE waste!).
- Step two wipes out problems on the rest of the face: nasty blemishes, visible veins, and it even covered my pesky open pores. Again, beautifully creamy but not as soft as step one, which is better for covering redness.
- Step three, the 'sealing powder', I could take or leave to be honest. In theory it's a great idea as it enables foundation to sweep over without disturbing the concealer. But I think people with dry skin will benefit by leaving this step out as it leaves a slightly flaky finish if I don't prime my face first.
Right-hand dark circle concealed.
Left-hand dark circle not concealed-ouch!
Unfortunately, 'Kick Ass' is only available in two shades, light or medium. Having medium/olive skin I purchased the medium shade which is ideal for me in these pale (and interesting) winter months but I fear once summer swings round and I hit the beach it may be too pale. So, S&G have six months to knock up a darker shade because this aptly named little pot of magic well and truly 'Kicks the Ass' of my dark circles.
