If you’ve got hours to spend at the salon getting your nails done, by all means, take the time and enjoy. There’s nothing like some pamper time if you’ve got the time and money. In reality, most of us need all the time we have for work, gym and — well, life. So if there’s a nail polish that won’t look like a “do-it-yourself’ train-smash, we’re all for it. This nail polish from essence, from their Shine, Last & Go range is all that and more. It has a gel-effect (without the schlepp of having to go to a salon to get it soaked off), it’s quick to apply (and even quicker to dry), it has an amazing shine and most importantly it LASTS, even after a week of workouts at the gym. Plus, it’s vegan and there are a ton of different shades to choose from (50 to be exact). And did we mention it’s super affordable?

essence Shine Last & Go Gel Nail Polish

And while we’re at it, we should mention the nail polish in the only essence Cosmetics product we’ve currently got crammed in our make-up bag. Take a look below. Why the crush on essence? Well, because it is one of those beauty brands that truly “gets it” — the brand is bang on trend, is fun, is friendly on the purse strings, and says NO to animal testing.

1/ Ultra last instant colour lipstick

Hello, luscious lips! This lipstick range unites high-coverage and colour-dispersion, so there’s no need to keep on applying your lipstick. While the lipstick’s creamy texture has serious staying power, it’s packed with hydration so it won’t leave you with dry, cracked lips.

essence Ultra Last Instant Lipstick

2/ Soft touch mousse

We LOVE a foundation mousse! The creamy texture is hydrating but light so your skin can breathe — and it provides excellent coverage (without leaving the skin chalky).

essence Soft Touch Mousse

3/ Matt touch blush

The matt touch blush with its soft powder texture creates a shine-free finish on your cheeks, giving your complexion a pop of colour.

essence Matt Touch Blush
CURRENTLY ON SALE

4/ Mattifying compact powder

This powder is one of essence Cosmetic’s most popular products — and for good reason. It’s a master at absorbing excess oil and spreads smoothly over the skin leaving you with a natural-looking, matt complexion.

essence Mattifying Compact Powder

With a full range of breakthrough beauty products and the season’s hottest colours and formulas, you’ll look (and feel) great — and your skin will feel great too!

Prices may vary from retailer to retailer. essence Cosmetics products are available in a range of colours at Dis-Chem, Clicks, Foschini and Jet stores nationwide, as well as online at Takealot, Zando and House of Cosmetics.