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EspressOh review: Is the coffee

May 18, 2023

Think the Italian version of Glossier, on caffeine

I'm pleased to report that the two best things in life – coffee and beauty – have officially had a baby (I promise, I haven't totally lost my marbles). Italian beauty brand, EspressOh, has finally launched in the UK. And trust us, it's been worth the wait.

As the name suggests, all the formulas in the range are enriched with caffeine to help give skin a much-needed wake-up call during those early mornings. It's been popular amongst the cool Italians for a while now, and has since gone viral on TikTok, with views for EspressOh at over eight million and counting. It's safe to say, there's been some real buzz around the brand (a caffeine buzz, that is).

Think the minimalism and aesthetically-pleasing packaging of Glossier, but with a caffeine kick and a bit more coverage, too. Those that are fans of a glowy base and glossy finish, you're going to love it.

Having stalked the brand on Instagram for a while now, I was eager to get my hands on the goods to see if EspressOh really was worth the hype (created both in my mind and online).

If you're unfamiliar with the brand, it's time to get on it ASAP – trust me, this isn't one to sleep on (quite literally with all that caffeine). I tried and tested basically the entire range, so you can add to your basket wisely.

Here's my in-depth review on what EspressOh products you need in your life...

As a full coverage foundation gal, skin tints usually aren't up my street, but this provides the perfect coverage for masking redness, while delivering the natural dewiness one looks for in a tint.

The vitamin C, caffeine and hydrating glycerin blend left me looking fresh-faced and hydrated (almost like I'd had more than eight hours sleep – imagine that).

It lasted throughout the day like a pro, but my one bugbear? Even shade 0.5 was a bit too warm on my ghost-like pale skin and with only four shades to pick from in total (ranging from 0.5-2), a wider shade spectrum for all would be greatly appreciated. Seriously, everyone needs this level of glow in their lives.

Out of the two lipstick formula options to pick from, this would be my top choice. Not only does the coffee-bean scent give you a little caffeine hit whenever you apply, but the more muted-tones make them super versatile.

The sheeny finish provides the perfect casual minimalistic pout and feels ultra-comfortable whilst wearing, too. After the colour wears off, lips aren't left feeling as dry as fish scales either. It's safe to say, these have earned a rightful place in my handbag lip stash.

Ignoring the cute milk carton packaging this one is encased in (I mean, adorable), this hydrating number can be used as a moisturiser or primer, to help rescue parched skin.

The glycerin-blend wasn't quite thirst-quenching enough to replace my morning moisturiser, but as a primer it did a great job at creating an even canvas for foundation application. Plus, it didn't cause any pilling (AKA, when your skin looks like it's shedding or flaking).

Name a better duo than caffeine and concealer to wake up sleep-deprived peepers. My dark circles were no match for this creamy camouflager that blended effortlessly and relieved my under-eyes of any late night TikTok-scrolling dryness.

As with the foundation, this sadly has the same limited shade range. Formula wise though, it's so pigmented and seamless that I often use just this on those faux 'no makeup makeup' days. A great pick for those that don't love the feeling of foundation sitting on their skin.

Out of this whole line up, I'd say this had the most hype behind it. It went viral on TikTok as it appears clear once applied, but quickly reacts to your skins unique pH to customise your colour.

On my pale skin, it came up as a flush-esque bright pink, which wouldn't be my usual go-to blush shade, however, the glossy finish it left my cheeks with made my skin look like glass. A great option for those looking for that enviable glazed doughnut finish.

This clear gel aims to set your brows in place for the day ahead with zero flakiness. The water-based formula didn't leave hairs looking dry or crispy, instead, it left my arches with an impressive lamination effect.

Even better? It left hairs with zero stiffness, making my brows look effortlessly fluffy. It wasn't the best at adding volume, but if you're looking for a gel that adds a bit of boldness to your arches, this has become my go-to.

Whether you're after an elongated siren eye or a more petite cat eye, this flexible nib is the perfect length for you to achieve a precise flick, without losing control.

This was potentially the glossiest eyeliner I've ever tried, so if you're after a more muted matte look, this wouldn't be your guy. However, it really didn't budge, even during my daily nap – a real test if you ask me.

Not to brag, but I thought my naturally curly lashes didn't need any help in the lifting department, but this mascara proved me wrong.

It left my eyes looking like I'd had a natural lash lift; all the curl, without any clumpiness. Despite the name – 'Intenso' – I wouldn't say this is the most volumising or darkest mascara I've ever used, but if fluttery lashes without any smudging sounds up your street, this is a great buy.

When I initially opened this palette I was worried about how wearable these shades would be on a daily basis. However, the velvety sheen these left on my lids gave me serious Mermaidcore vibes (very on trend).

The foil-like shadows aren't best suited if you're a minimalist in the eye makeup department, but if you're in the mood for a disco ball look, you'll love this slim palette.

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