BEAUTY MOMENTS
Canadian women share how specific beauty products changed them
I grew up surrounded by beauty products—literally. When I was young, my mom worked from home as a beauty consultant, and bottles, tubes and jars of enticing potions held court on our dining table. Besides being some of the tools of artistry and selfexpression, I learned early on that the contents of a makeup bag carry the inherent power of transformation, and that cosmetics can have a major impact. This is why my must-have product has always been mascara. You see, in their natural state, my lashes are nothing to brag about. The follicular magic responsible for my big hair doesn’t extend to my lashes. When left untouched, my eyelashes are short and sparse, with zero wow factor. But I can change that with the wave of a wand. Or, more accurately, two.
I’ve been using the iconic L’oréal Paris Voluminous Mascara since it launched more than 25 years ago. I love how the full brush, with its densely packed bristles, works in tandem with the amplifying formula to build fuller lashes without clumps—i swipe on a few coats and my lashes come to life! I didn’t think the dramatic results I’ve come to rely on since my teenage years could be improved. Then I discovered L’oréal Paris Voluminous Primer. A base coat… really? I was skeptical. The premise appeared to be an extra step I’d rarely have time for, and the white formulation seemed at odds with my quest for inky black lashes. I’m happy to report I was wrong. Not only does the primer require mere seconds to apply, but it goes on nearly sheer and blends seamlessly with the mascara I use on top. But the real reason it’s earned must-have status in my arsenal is the payoff. This primer takes my lash game to the next level because the lightweight formula creates a smooth layer and an even base that results in a smoother application of mascara. The outcome: Sparse lashes are transformed into the full fringe of my dreams.
“I learned early on that the contents of a makeup bag carry the inherent power of transformation.”