THE BEAUTY BAR

essence Cosmetics Fall/Winter collection

What it is: The new collection from the German-owned beauty brand, essence, includes lip colours, eyeshadows, highlighter and more, each designed to inspire the wearer to, “embrace the cooler fall and winter months,” according to a news release.

The launch features a few new items such as the Forbidden Volume Mascara and 2-in-1 Eyeshadow and Liner sticks in on-season shades. Big-time essence fans will also find a few familiar products within the fall launch — with new colour options, of course — including the waterproof Superfine Eyeliner Pen, Smokey 2-in-1 Kohl Liner and Make Me Brow Eyebrow Gel Mascara.

The release also sees the brand go big on nails, with six shade updates within the Gel Nail Polish range, as well as Creative French Manicure Stickers that allow for foolproof polish application in a variety of designs including zigzag, angel wings and more.

What we say: This European brand’s latest offering is worth checking out. Why? Well, the products have good colour payoff, come in pretty colours that may not already be in your makeup bag — and they’re not too sparkly like some fall/ winter releases.

And bonus points for the fact most of the items in this collection are made in Europe and, at an average of less than $3.50 per item, won’t break the bank.

Our tester was impressed with the performance of several of these value-priced products. The Pure Nude Highlighter ($5.49), which is a baked powder compact that works to “perfect” skin while providing a subtle shimmer, gave skin a natural healthy glow that didn’t look at all garish and will be the perfect complement to pale winter skin tones.

The Prettifying Lip Oil ($3.99, exclusive to Loblaws), a lightweight lip treatment in a handy lip gloss-like applicator, smoothed dry lips while adding a kiss of shine thanks to the added ingredient, jojoba oil. The oil, which is available in three shades, didn’t leave lips sticky and was actually perfect for applying before bed. In the morning, our tester reported her lips were soft and moisturized.

The standout products from this launch were the 2-in-1 Eyeshadow and Liners ($4.99). The chubby eyeshadow sticks can easily be used for a sweep of colour on the entire lid, while also featuring a tip that’s precise enough for quick lining (albeit not too thin a line). Our tester loved the off-white shade, which she used along her waterline and in the corner of her eyes for an I-woke-up-like-this appeal. The colour stays put all day with minimal creasing when applied all over the lid.

Available in four shades — a creamy vanilla, rose gold, brown and black — these colour sticks are so good they’re worth picking up one in each colour.

Where to get it: Shoppers Drug Mart; Loblaws; essencemakeup.com What it will cost you: $2.49 to $5.49