Review // *Zuzka Natural Lipstick in 'Toffee Apple'

  In this day and age where more and more chemicals are being invented and with very few people reading or actually knowing what is on the cosmetic product's ingredients list, it's good to know what the products you use are made of - especially those that you put on your face, eyes and lips. The more natural the better.

  Zuzka was a brand that was previously unknown to me. But when given the chance to review their items from the creator Susan Kohutova herself, I researched a bit about the company and was intrigued by their 'pure, fresh, handmade cosmetics' claim. From the website itself, all of Zuzka cosmetics are manufactured from certified organic herbs, plants and flowers free from pesticides and chemicals.

  Anyway, I received one of their Natural Lipsticks in the shade 'Toffee Apple'* to review for you guys today. I must tell you that each of their Natural Lipsticks also has a Natural Lip gloss in the same shade for those that prefer glosses.

What they say

"Our long-wearing lipstick is made with high quality natural and organic ingredients such as healing botanical oils, and softening Shea Butter and Candelilla Wax. Infused with reflective minerals to help smooth and heal dry lips."

Packaging

  Your standard lipstick bullet casing the twists up to reveal more product - so nothing really fancy there. But I do like the silver metallic packaging though!

L - one swipe // R - 3-4 swipes

Formula

  In the bullet, the shade 'Toffee Apple' looks absolutely gorgeous. On the website, it is described as a "gorgeous golden coral colour" but I only 80% agree with that description because I don't feel like it's quite 'coral' per se. However, I do think that the name 'Toffee Apple' really suits it because it is honestly a really unique shade that I haven't seen a lot, find it hard to categorized and if I had to describe the colour to someone, it would be 'Toffee Apple'. But I am going to try my best here - it's a red brown coppery shade with glimmers of gold in it.  

 The finish of this lipstick is not matte but not overly glossy either - I would say a cross between satin and sheer. Its lasting power is about 3 to 4 hours without eating or drinking on me and it fades evenly. However, I will recommend using a lip balm before application because without, it did tug a little. But with a lip balm, it applies like a dream. Also, it has no scent - again, proof of their 'no harsh chemicals' statement! Which is good for those of you that dislike the empowering smell that some lipsticks have.

  As you can see from the swatches, the pigmentation is actually quite sheer. For someone like me who has relatively pigmented lips, it appears as a lovely flush of colour. Noticeable, but subtle. But this I think is a good thing, given the fact that only natural ingredients are used and you can always build up the intensity if desired. Having said that, this makes it a great everyday/day time lippie as it gives the right amount of colour to brighten up your face. Since receiving it, I have been wearing it on a daily basis.

Final Verdict

This brand brings the term 'au naturel' to a whole new level. For something that is "free from preservatives, artificial colours, talc, oil, fragrances, sodium lauryl sulphate, parabens, animal ingredients and other skin irritants", its retail price of £14.99 is not too bad at all. So for those that have sensitive or acne-prone skin, I highly recommend checking out what this brand has to offer! They have everything. From hair care, body care, cosmetics, mineral eye shadows, mineral foundations, skin care...and even a range for men! Oh and, if you are unsure which of their products (there are many) will best suit your skin type, it's all categorised here

I would love to try another shade in the Natural Lipstick range next - perhaps one of the darker ones like Grape or Indian Summer to see if pigmentation may vary. And then, I would love to venture into their skin care and face products cause I could really use some natural ingredients with my acne-prone skin! Curse you hormones.

What do you think of brands that use natural ingredients? Do you gravitate towards them?
 *Disclaimer: I received this product for review purposes but as always, all opinions are 100% honest and entirely mine!