Ilia is a range that have been on my radar for some time. A prestige natural cosmetic brand which is organic, gluten and wheat free. They recently gained a prime spot in Fenwicks of Bond Street beauty hall.
I recently attended the Ilia Effortless Definition masterclass. I got to learn more about the brand,the products in the range and how to use them. The demonstration was led by pro makeup artist Emma McCrae who demonstrated the products and application techniques on a gorgeous model. Emma used a mixture of her hands to warm up the products and a brush to for more precise application. Emma has worked with a variety of mainstream brands and commented…
‘…it’s a different way of doing make up but once you get used to it you love it!’
Ilia have a diverse range of colours, the textures are all cream based. Application to the skin is smooth and for the majority of the products your hands really are the best tools. The interesting thing is that the products stay tacky on the skin. there is no dry down. You can use a powder to set the products but it does take something away from the glow that the range gives the skin.
Brand consultant Nikki Taylor explained…
‘There are no binders or fillers in this range which can look grey or ashy on deeper and richer skin tones.’
If like me you have a rich skin tone, it means that it opens up a range of colours in the range that you may not have considered. the lack of binders and fillers means that you are getting the emollient eg castor oil and pigment on the skin. This provides a subtlety which creates the perfect no make up make up look.
If you weren’t told that Ilia was a ‘green’ make up brand you would not know. The aluminium packing and maroon boxes and the face charts all scream luxe quality.
I took the opportunity to have Emma give me a mini makeover. I was really surprised at how happy I was with the final look. Glowing skin, in a happy not greasy way with glittery eyes, dewy cheeks and kissable lips.
Even in the midst of my purple obsession there is always room for makeup which makes your skin look healthy which is exactly with Illia does. I was very generously gifted some items to try. Look out for a full review of the products next week.
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