CIRCA Beauty from Eva Mendes.
/The beautiful model/actress Eva Mendes has created her own cosmetics line called CIRCA Beauty. Available now exclusively at Walgreens, this upscale brand inspired by retro Hollywood glam is quite impressive. From black and gold packaging that does have the retro look to the products that feature rich pigments and really great formulations, it's a brand you will be hearing about.
Eva has been lucky to work closely with makeup artists throughout her career. From being on-set at movies to being all gussied up for the red carpet, Eva gets not only the transformative power of cosmetics, but she recognizes the importance of product efficacy. In her role with CIRCA, Eva will collaborate with makeup artists and brand development to help steer the brand direction and create products. Initially, there are 133 products in the line up. I can't wait to see what else is in store.
Take a look at some of the products that caught my eye.
CIRCA Color Balance Liquid Foundation - $15.00
I was very impressed with this medium - full coverage, natural foundation that gave my skin a beautiful soft focus finish. The lightweight formula blended into my skin effortlessly without looking like a mask as it blurred out fine lines and pores. I really liked it. It comes in ten shades that are said to match a variety of skin tones. I tested 06 Warm Medium Beige which was just a little dark for me and might be a little better for when I am self-tanning more in the summer. I would say 04 is the medium, fits most medium complexion, then go up or down from there. I love that it comes in a pump like a high end foundation.
CIRCA Face Time Pressed Powder - $14.00
This lightweight, blendable powder set the foundation and added a little more blur to my skin. I usually don't apply powder all over, but because the foundation was a bit dark and I received this in a lighter shade (04 Medium), I did dust it all over with a large fluffy powder brush. It didn't add any cakiness to my look or didn't look heavy. It was a nice addition to the foundation. I'd definitely use it in places where I get shiny.
CIRCA Color Focus Eye Shadow - $8.00 (single) ; $12.00 (trio)
This highly pigmented eyeshadow offered a lot of color that is really silky soft and blends with ease. I didn't experience fall out or creasing and the shadow held up all day, though I did wear with primer. I like the array of colors available. I suggest Provocateur Palette or Unforgettable single.
CIRCA Color Saturated Eye Crayon - $10.00
Probably my favorite item from the CIRCA Beauty line, this eye crayon is very longwearing, crease-resistant h and pulls double duty as an eyeliner and shadow. It is so pigmented! It feels like nothing on the eye as it glides on , yet it is so creamy at the same time as it blends. The six different shades can be blended together or layered. I've been wearing Sparkling Citrine, Pure Topaz and Rose Quartz for a gorgeous turned up nude eye look - gorgeous!
CIRCA Color Saturated Lip Crayon - $10.00
Similar to the Eye Crayon, the Lip Crayons pack a whole lot of pigment and offer liner and lip color in one product. They are fairly long-lasting and have a high shine finish, which I really like. There are eight shades available. I like Passionate and Demure.
CIRCA Color Treatment Tinted Lip Butter - $10.00
This nourishing lip balm has a hint of color and a very pretty soft shine finish. I like that they are enriched with a blend of natural oils and butters so lips are conditioned and hydrated. Six sheer shades are available. My favorites are Sheer Rose and Sheer Pink.
CIRCA Lustrous Shine Lip Polish - $10.00
This lip gloss is super glossy and infused with Avocado Oil to keep lips looking soft and supple. I like the buildable coverage and lightweight (never sticky) feel. I'm the worst with scents, but I think it has a rose scent. It comes in eight gorgeous shades. My picks are Nylon Pop and Lovely Lace.
CIRCA Color Absolute Velvet Luxe Lipstick - $10.00
This color-saturated lipstick leaves a beautiful velvet matte finish, inspired by the old Hollywood movie starlet. The formula is buildable, quite hydrating with Aloe Extract, Jojoba and Sweet Almond Oil and very pigmented. There are 12 shades in all. My faves are Natalie and Sophia.
Again, CIRCA Beauty is available now at Walgreens stores and online at walgreens.com.
