top gear of beauty

Lately I’ve been sticking my neck out, I’ve done a pretty crazy thing in the beauty world. I’ve been honest.

First there was the Shellac post that ignited the fury of nail technicians across the country, incensed that I’d dare criticize  their beloved product. I actually think it’s awesome but it is a pain in the butt that you have to return to the salon to get it removed (I guess at least it doesn’t chip). They say the removal process takes ten minutes but that’s more like half an hour. What’s more – it will cost you $10 to get it off (unless you peel it off, like I did – not advised).

Now I’m ruffling feathers with my Moroccanoil post. I’m still hoping to be proven wrong about the dodgy fragrance ingredients but whatever the result – it’s not natural.

Being an honest beauty editor is a really difficult role to play because as you’re all aware, it’s the beauty companies that pretty much pay the salaries at magazines. So the general rule of thumb is if you don’t like something, don’t mention it. You certainly don’t point out it’s questionable ingredients – especially if the product comes from a major advertiser.

So who do you know you can trust? Not many, to be honest. Most beauty editors don’t delve deep into the subject, they’ll glide across the surface. You’ll hear the same old instructions about the same-old products about the same-old problems.

Which is why I started beautygoss in the first place. I wanted to be a real voice. I want you to know you can trust me. My husband said, ‘you should really be the Top Gear of beauty editors – that’s the only way you’re going to get respect and stand out.’

Most of the time, it’s pretty easy to be honest and keep the peace because very few products are shonky. Most of the products I naturally gravitate towards have so much research and development behind them, they’ll do what they say they will. But some companies will come along, make outlandish claims, and fall flat on their face.

If you ever have any questions about any products, fire me an email and I’ll do some digging. Likewise, if you disagree with what I say – tell me. I might not always be right (shh don’t tell Mr Beautygoss that), but I’ll certainly listen. Sometimes things will work for me, and not for you and vice versa. I welcome a good hearty debate. Let’s stop acting like robots when it comes to beauty – let’s actually think about what we’re choosing, buying and using and let’s make sure we only ever use the best products.

Pinkie promise?

Tamsin xo