An Introduction to 3INA & My Recent Purchases

Even though I love makeup and beauty, I’ve never been one to rush to buy any new launch, stand in queues, or even make that online order straight away.  I think it’s probably because I’m generally the sort of person that likes to take my time, be calm about it and then (hopefully), make the right choices.  Of course the latter isn’t always the case but I do make it a point to buy a little at a time and then, if I like it, I’ll go back for more.

I also much prefer the experience of physically going to the shops than ordering online.  So when I was recently in Covent Garden in London and passed the flagship 3INA store, I had to go in and have a little wonder.

3INA (pronounced Mee-nah) launched in February 2016, but it’s probably only in the last couple of months that I have seen more of it on the blogosphere.  Paraben, vegan and cruelty free, this European-made cosmetics brand challenges the one-size-fits-all definition of beauty.  Their products are designed with experimentation and innovation in mind from bright colours to even a UV range.

But don’t worry, it’s not all about fluorescent makeup (unless that’s your thing), there’s something for everyone including my somewhat “safe” love for all things neutral.  They pretty much have it covered with products for the face, eyes, lips, nails, skincare and accessories and all at an affordable price range.  I would say their range is the same type of vibe as Kiko and Inglot.

So what did I buy?  Well, in my usual style when I am trying something new, I played it very safe and only went for two products.

I had seen some reviews on The Highlighter in shade number 201 and couldn’t resist since highlighter is one of my favourite makeup products next to lipsticks.  This shade is a lovely champagne beige and not surprisingly it is one of their bestsellers.

I’ve worn this a lot and what I love is that it’s neither too golden, nor too silvery and sits somewhere in between, therefore complimenting any makeup look.  The formula is incredibly soft with a very good level of pigment, which leaves an ethereal glow to the face.  At just £10.95, this is pretty good value for money and as you can see from the swatches below, this highlighter can also work just as well as an eyeshadow.

Next is The Metallic Eyeshadow in shade number 501 at £6.95.  I’d describe it as a soft, apricot peach which seems to be the sort of colour I’m gravitating towards a lot lately.  If pressed on to the eyes with little blending, this gives a subtle, foil-like effect and I adore, like the highlighter, how soft and easy to blend this is.

I do find that this eyeshadow requires a good primer underneath to extend the wear-time.  Although metallic, there is no obvious glitter and this sits somewhere between a frost and a pearly, satin finish.  I also find that the formula of this particular eyeshadow means that packing it on doesn’t necessarily mean more pigment.  But given the colour and formula, this still has a good colour pay-off.

I would love to try more from this brand as they are certainly on point with their range, colours and finishes as well as their prices.  The packaging is also on point – sleek and simple.

So, have you tried anything from 3INA before? x