31 May 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: MAYBELLINE NEW YORK COLOR SHOW NAIL POLISHES AND DR. RESCUE

Today I'd like to talk about some of my favourite drugstore nail polishes, the Color Show Nail Polishes  and Dr. Rescue from Maybelline New York.


These nail polishes claim to have 2x more pigments so only one coat is necessary, which is true for some of the shades, while the lighter of the shades do require 2+ coats for a solid colour. The polishes have a small flat brush that makes them quick and easy to apply.

As promised they are also fairly long-wearing and I do manage to get a few days wear from them before they start chipping at the ends, but here is also important to note than I probably wash my hands more than most during the day with two nappy wearing little kids! But even so, I still find that reasonable, especially considering the low price. 
 
 
But of course you can extend the wear by using a base and top coat such as those from the Maybelline Dr. Rescue range, which includes:  
  • Dr. Rescue Colour Correcting Base Coat
  • Dr. Rescue Gel Effect Top Coat
  • Dr. Rescue All in One
The Colour Correcting Base Coat has got an off-white shade that evens and whitens the nail, to make applying nail polish easier, make it last longer, and give a more solid, longer-lasting nail color.
 
The Gel Effect Top Coat helps seal in your nail polish so that it lasts longer, while giving it a high-gloss gel effect finish.
  
Finally, the All in One is both a base and a top coat, which has an inbuilt strengthener that protects the nails throughout the day and also gives the nails a high gloss finish
  
Using a base and a top coat, or alternatively the All in One does extend the wear of your manicure by a few days, and gives it an even glossier finish too. While I like all three products, personally I have been reaching for the All in One as I like that it has an inbuilt strengthener too!

  
Back to the nail polishes... One think I am not fond of is the strong chemical scent they have, no doubt as they are not 3-free, which generally is the case for nail polishes in the price range. So at least I make sure my little boys are not near me when I paint my nails as I don't want them to inhale the strong fumes.
  
There are a massive 26 shades in the range, which does make it very difficult to pick favourites, but a few of mine include Urban Coral (an orangy-red), Bubblicious (a fuchsia) and Broadway Blues (a bright French blue).
 
 
Maybelline New York Color Show Nail Polish - RRP: $5.95 / 7ml each 
Maybelline New York Dr. Rescue Colour Correcting Base Coat - RRP: $6.95 / 7ml each 
Maybelline New York Dr. Rescue Gel Effect Top Coat - RRP: $6.95 / 7ml each 
Maybelline New York Dr. Rescue All in One - RRP: $6.95 / 7ml each
 
Maybelline New York is available from Priceline, Variety Stores and select supermarkets and pharmacies
   
* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy. 
 
 
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29 May 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: STEM ORGANICS FRESH START SERUM AND BALANCING FACE FLUID

I always get very excited when I come across new beauty brands, and even more when learning that they are Australian Made, so I was very excited when some products from the Stem Organics range landed on my door step...
 


Stem Organics has the philosophy to use organic and natural alternatives to harsh chemical ingredients, and hence some of the signature ingredients in all products are Australian Kakadu Plum, with one of the highest plant sources of age fighting Vitamin C in the world, direct from outback Australia, antioxidant rich anti-inflammatory Pomegranate and organic Aloe. In addition Stem Organics also use organic essential oils, nourishing fatty acids, powerful anti-ageing ingredients and essential vitamins and minerals, while chemicals, parabens, sulphates and all artificial colours and fragrances are left out.

First up is the Stem Organics Fresh Start Serum, which is a serum for all skin types, except blemish prone! I have recently, due to major stress in connection with our little baby being so sick, that my skin broke out big time - I've luckily managed to get it under control again, but as I also always have struggled with breakouts, I was naturally a little cautious putting this serum to the test.

The serum promises to make the skin rejuvenated, rested and renewed while protecting it from the daily environmental stressors such as wind, pollution and air conditioning. The anti-ageing serum contains 91% organic ingredients which among others include oat protein, Gotu Kola, Kakadu Plum, aloe vera, and niacinamide, and it also promises the give the skin a healthy glow.

The serum is to be used morning and night under your usual moisturiser. It has a very light and thin creamy consistency and it absorbs quickly into the skin without any greasiness or tackiness, and within moments you actually wont even know you've applied it, which also means that it works brilliantly as a base under makeup during the day.

I used the Stem Organics Balancing Face Fluid on top of the serum, so it is hence difficult to distiquish the effects of each individually.

The Balancing Face Fluid is a very light moisturiser intended for oily, combination and blemish prone skin, as it contains ingredients including willowbark that helps clear, soothe and heal the skin while aiding cell renewal as well as aloe that helps balance the skin and reduce the production of oil and hence shine. In addition it also contains niacinamide, grapeseed, pomegranate and kakadu plum to help retain moisture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Combined, 87% of the ingredients are certified organic!

The actual moisturiser is only marginally thicker than the serum, and with combination skin, I really like that light texture that quickly absorbs into my skin. And yet, while it is so light, I still feels that it gives my skin more than sufficient moisture, especially when using the serum underneath.

In the weeks that I've been using the products I am not sure I have noticed any major difference in the amount of wrinkles and fine lines that I've got, but what I have noticed is that my skin feels and looks very soft, sooth and very moisturised, - and when used during the day in particularly, I can clearly see that my makeup stays put nicer and longer, so clearly the products have also helped normalise the oil production on my skin so it is no longer so greasy - so overall, that's a huge tick of approval from me!

Both products come in gorgeous old style brown glass bottles with 'Tiffany-shades turquoise' label, that are simplistic yet very stylish, and I also really like that they come with little pumps making it easier to dispense just the amount needed, while remaining hygienic.


Stem Fresh Start Serum 50ml, $49 / 500ml, $79
Stem Balancing Face Fluid 50ml, $45 / 250ml $75

Available from Stem Organics



* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


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HAPPY FIRST BIRTHDAY JAKE

Hard to believe that it has already been a year, as on the 25th May our little beautiful boy Jake turned one. My second baby is no longer a baby either - he's a toddler too...



He grows and develops by the day - and hard to believe that in just a year he has gone from this to this...



But getting here has been a tough and long journey for our poor little boy, as he wasn't even 6 weeks old when we took him to the doctor and hereafter the Royal Children's Hospital (RCH) for what we initially thought was just because he'd poked himself in the one eye! It turned out he had a life-threatening auto-immune disorder, and consequently he ended up staying at the next 4.5 months undergoing strong steroid and chemotherapy treatment, that made him feel so horrible and not to mention made his poor little body and face swell to scary proportions. (It is only just now that he is starting to return to normal size).


Hereafter he had an more intense 'conditioning therapy' a chemotherapy that essentially wiped out all of the existing bone marrow and thereby the defect immune system, He then had a bone marrow transplant in the end of September, which in time will give him a new immune system. 


This however takes quite some time to kick in, most often a year before it starts, and several years before it is fully functioning.

Throughout the whole process our little boy has been such a fighter. He still needs to take more medicine several times throughout the day that a little boy his age should ever have to, yet he takes them all without a fight. And he has had to endure more procedures including lumbar punctures, MRIs, scans, operations, blood transfusions, to just mention a few, than any adult will experience in their entire lifetime. All before he was 6 months old, and now at 1 year old, it is still not over, he continues to have checkups and tests, and will have to for a very long time to come, years, though as time passes they will hopefully become further and further apart.


Needless to say that it has been a tough ride for the whole family, including our other little boy who had only just turned 2 when his little brother was admitted to hospital., and mum 'disappeared' as I had to stay at RCH with Jake. And for several months he couldn't even visit Jake at the hospital as he was in a special vacuum-sealed isolation room, but he too has taken the whole thing extremely well. The moment the two brothers were finally united again was absolutely priceless as they so adore each other to bits.


Due to being so sick for so long, little Jake is several months behind development-wise, and he is also still very little, approx. the size of an 8 month old, but he is slowly catching up, and have such an appetite for life, so happy and excited about everything, and clearly is so determined and has such strong will power to kick on and catch up.


He is such a such a happy smiling boy – and it is not just Mummy and Daddy being biased and saying this, even all the doctors and nurses who usually only prod and probe him, say that they’ve never met such an easy-going, happy and loving little boy.


He deserved a huge birthday party, but with no immune system, sadly it was just not possible to have the house full of guests, but regardless, he had a fantastic day, spoilt with pressies which he clearly enjoyed.

Love you so much my little Jake, - and you will always be Mummy's little baby! xox

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27 May 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: ELIZABETH ARDEN SUNSET COLOUR SUMMER 2016 MAKEUP COLLECTION

With inspiration drawn from breathtaking summer sunsets, Elizabeth Arden has launched the limited Edition Sunset Colour Summer 2016 Makeup Collection... I know, we're in the middle of autumn here in Australia, so this is to coincide with the European summer, but at least it has been launched here in Australia simultaneously - and while it is intended as summer makeup, I cannot see why it also cannot be used into autumn and winter! 


So the collection has been inspired by the bronze, purple and pink and orange hues you can see in the summer sky as the sun sets. That luminous glow, you can now recreate with these products.

The Sunset Bronze Prismatic Eyeshadow Palette is a 5 shadow palette containing champagne, soft pink, warm rose-gold, purple and taupe-plum shades. All the shades are incredibly pigmented, so you can create intense and dramatic looks, while naturally also keeping it simple and natural.

The eyeshadows are made from ultra fine powders with silica and mica minerals and they really do give a silky soft application, almost if they were cream shadows. They also contain mica based pearls and titanium dioxide to help reflect the light and diffuse sparkle for a multi-dimensional effect. Finally the pigments are also coated with waxes sand polymers in order to make them long-lasting.

I am not usually one for pink and purple shades on my eyes, but I have to admit that I fell in love with these immediately, from the shades, to easily they apply and blend, to the fact that they simply stay put all day on my greasy eyelids, without settling into fine lines.

The palette comes in a round compact with a mirror inside, and the actual lid has a beautiful pink, purple and orange design.

Also a part of the collection are the Sunset Bronze Prismatic Lip Glosses, which are available in three shades, Midnight Kiss (Soft Pink), Moonlight Kiss (Lavender) and Sunset Kiss (Champagne).

I tried the Midnight Kiss shade which in the packaging does appear to be a medium pink shimmery shade, but once applied it gives the lips a sheer, iridescent tint with a highly glossy and shimmery finish.

The Lip Glosses contain multi-dimensional pearls to give a prismatic effect and colour changing capabilities when light reflect on the lips. But they are also part skincare, in that they are enriched with hydrating aloe vera, and vitamins A, C and E to soothe the lips. And they do in fact feel incredibly soft and moisturising on the lips, without being sticky and tacky. I would have loved a tad more colour than the subtle tint, but do love then for a casual day out, or alternatively used on top of another lipstick to add shine and volume. The lipgloss also comes in a beautiful packaging with its rose-gold lid.

These products are so beautiful, and I love the colours which are so unique in a bronze collection, it is a refreshing change, and they are so beautiful to apply and wear too that they are definitely worth checking out, but hurry, as remember these are limited edition so they are sure to fly off the shelves once they hit the stores in July!


Elizabeth Arden Sunset Bronze Prismatic Eyeshadow Palette - RRP: $50
Elizabeth Arden Sunset Bronze Prismatic Lip Glosses - RRP: $34

Also a part of the collection is:

Elizabeth Arden Sunset Bronze Highlighter - RRP: $45
Elizabeth Arden Sunset Bronze Bronzing Powder - RRP: $45

Available from Elizabeth Arden Counters and Elizabeth Arden Online


* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

 

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25 May 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: LUST HAVE IT MAY 2016

The May Lust Have It Box arrived yesterday, so once again on time and in the relevant, which is always nice. Here's what was inside and my thoughts...


Yet again this months’ products arrived in a pink mesh bag, and as I've said a few times now, while I don't mind those bags, but have so many of them by now that I'm starting to not know what to do with them, so really I'd love it if Lust Have It changed the style again for a bit of a variety. This months bag included three full sized items, two deluxe sized sample, and a pair of leggings as a bonus product.

Razzamatazz Perfectly Matte Opaque Leggings - RRP: $11.95

A new pair of leggings never goes a stray so as such I am certainly not complaining about these, and they feel soft and lovely, so will definitely be put into use. However, as Lust Have It is a beauty subscription box I would have preferred to see an additional beauty item instead.


Teeez Spectrum of Stars Eye Shadow - Full Size (RRP: $29)

This eye shadow comes in a gold bald, and the actual eye shadow contains argan oil with anti-ageing properties to moisturise the skin, which all sounds lovely. I got the shade Pearly Mist which is a shimmery pale grey, and quite a lovely shade.


PHR Recovery Leave-In Moisturiser - Deluxe Size, 15ml (RRP: $35.95 / 125ml)

I rely on leave-in treatments to keep my long hair conditioned so always excited to try out a new one. This is one helps renew brittle hair and gives it vitamins and proteins to maintain health and shine while sealing in hydration and protect from damage from heat styling. All sounds pretty good so look forward to trying it.


Lollipops Baume Grenadine - Full Size (RRP: $7.45 / 10ml)

Never heard of this French brand before so very happy about the inclusion of this lip balm. It is a red tinted balm that contains among others shea butter, oil, macadamia and vitamin E, so it nourishes the lips while giving them a nice red stain. Look very forward to trying this one out too!


Starlooks Luxe Longwear Eye Liner Pen - Full Size (RRP: 20 )

I've tried a few products from this brand, but from memory only their lip products, so look forward to trying this black liquid eyeliner. 


Urban Skincare Co Infuse Body Balm - Deluxe Size, 35ml (RRP: ?)

Finally there's a 'mystery item curated by your Lust Have It Team' This can be various skincare samples. And I got the Urban Skincare Co Infuse Body Balm. I have previously tried this one as it has been included in a Lust Have It Box last year, and really didn't mind it - but that said, I would naturally have preferred to see something different included. However, I do have one concern, the date stamped at the top of the tube is 2014-10-15 - this could of course be the manufacturing date, but whenever a date is stamped into the product in this way, it does generally mean that it is the expiry date, which would then essentially mean that this product is off...

So there you go, the contents of the May 2016. I am neither excited nor disappointed with this months selection. Nothing really disappointed me, but there was also nothing in the box that really really excited me. I (sadly) don't really count the leggings, and the items I look forward to trying the most are the PHR Leave-In and the Lollipops lip balm - the two cheapest items in the box, that combined hardly makes up for the cost of the box... That said, nothing in the box will go to waste, and I will use every single product, no odd coloured makeup, or skincare that doesn't fit my skin type this month, which is always a good thing!

 
Lust Have It boxes regularly contains products worth $60+ for only $19.95/month! Monthly box filled with 5 to 6 premium beauty samples. Delivered to your home or work each month for you to try.

– but if you use my unique code LIFESTYLE at the checkout on the Lush Have It website, you are eligible for $5 off your first box from Lust Have It, and at the same time you’ll also be supporting Beauty & Lifestyle Hunter, as I will get a few dollars too if someone subscribes using this code.

Available from Lust Have It http://www.lusthaveit.com.au

* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

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Product Review: Theorie Argan Oil Hair Care

I am always on the lookout for good quality products to keep my long hair healthy, so I was very excited when I was asked to trial a new brand available in Australia for the first time. Here are my thoughts on the Theorie Argan Oil Ultimate Repair Shampoo, Conditioner, Hair Mask and Repair Hair Serum;



What They Say:
Argan Oil Ultimate Repair Shampoo: "This active O2 Shampoo provides deep-down rejuvenating moisture and a healthy lustrous shine. Embodied with an exclusive blend of natural ingredients delicately restores hair by removing damaging impurities and protecting your tresses from harmful UVA/UVB rays."

Argan Oil Ultimate Repair Conditioner: "This Active O2 Conditioner provides rejuvenating moisture that instantly penetrates deep down into the hair shaft – restoring radiant shine and softness while strengthening your follicles."
Argan Oil Repair Hair Serum: "Penetrates deep into hair follicles by softening the cuticle and restoring dry, damaged hair while locking in long lasting lustre and shine. Argan Oil Repair Hair Serum strengthens and fortifies without weighing hair down and acts as a layer of protection from heat-styling and environmental stress."

Argan Oil Ultimate Repair Hair Mask: "Our most advanced deep conditioning system. Argan Ultimate Repair Hair Mask is designed to harness the true power of Argan Oil to restore smoothness and shine. By revitalizing the follicle from the inside out, this world-class hair emollient provides up to 98% less breakage; leaving your hair feeling well-nourished and vibrant."

What I Say:
Let me start out by telling you a little about Theorie… Theorie was born in America, and the products formulated France using argan oil sourced in Morocco. Argan oil is rich in nourishing omega acids and Vitamin E, and these ingredients that work to soften, fight frizz and boost shine, dramatically transforming the driest, dullest strands.

The products uses an advanced, oxygen-infused technology to push the restorative effects of argan oil even further, delivering these enriching nutrients, along with an exclusive blend of polyunsaturated fatty acids and silk proteins, deep down into the hair shaft for fortified,  healthy-looking hair that’s well-protected from damaging UV rays.
And what I really like is that the products do not contain any Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Laureth Sulfate or Propylene Glycol, as well as it doesn’t contain any Mineral Oil, Paraffin Oil, or Petroleum Products, but rather the products contain the natural Ingredients including Grape Seed Oil, Vitamin E, Omega 6, Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids & Silk Proteins. The products are safe for all hair types, including colour and keratin treated hair. What’s not to love!!
And what I also love is Theorie’s philosophy “We dare to do what’s right, putting our clients and their needs before our profits, so everyone can have access to better hair. Fact.”


And these products really are amazing. The Theorie Ultimate Repair Shampoo gently cleanses the hair, and even though I only wash my hair every second day, just one wash is more than sufficient to make my hair feel clean. And even before I use the conditioner I can feel how moisturising the shampoo is. This is promising..

The Theorie Ultimate Repair Conditioner has a lovely consistency, and absorbs instantly into my hair, and after a few minutes it rinses out quickly and easily – and I am left with the softest hair that is easy to comb.
I add a few drops of the Theorie Repair Hair Serum while my hair is still wet, and leave it to dry naturally – and once it has, several hours later as my hair is quite long and thick, I am left with healthy looking, shiny and silky soft hair, that smells amazing too.

 
To tame a few flyaways and add extra moisture to my dry ends, I add another few drops of the Hair Serum, which does wonders without weighing down my hair or making it feel greasy. 
Once a week I usually give my hair an intense treatment, and the Theorie Ultimate Repair Hair Mask does my hair wonders in just 5-10 minutes.


It is thick and concentrated and only a little is needed. Thick treatments can often be difficult to rinse out and not to mention, also often weigh the hair down, but with the Theorie Repair Mask, there’s none of that. It is quick and easy to rinse out without any residue being left behind, and once my hair is day (again naturally without the aid of a hairdryer) my hair is left incredibly soft and smooth. Dry ends seems to have gotten a new lease of life. Frizz is dramatically reduced. And then there’s the shine – my hair simply looks and feels so healthy.
The Ultimate Repair Shampoo and Conditioner come in brown plastic pump bottles with a simple cream coloured label, and I really really love the inclusion of the pump which makes the products so easy to use in the shower. 
I am not a fan of those hair oils that come in bottles with screw lids, as it can be quite difficult to open and close the bottle when your hands is greasy from the oil, but thankfully the Repair Hair Serum also comes in a pump bottle which makes it easy to get just the amount of oil needed without any wastage.  But unlike the other products the serum comes in a glass bottle, that does make it look and feel more luxurious, but obviously a little extra care needs to be taken to make sure you don’t drop it on the bathroom floor.
Finally, the Repair Mask comes in a round plastic tub with a screw lid, and while it is easy to open, I do find that it is a little tricky close up again in the shower. Also I find that water often gets into the tub in the shower (OK, I probably shouldn’t but I’m guilty of leaving the water running!), so I would prefer, and find it a lot easier when hair masks come in a tube.

But overall I really like how the products are packaged, and they look great in the bathroom too! All the products have the most amazing gentle floral scent, that does linger for a while although – unfortunately it does fade a little.

What I Like: 
  • The products do not contain any chemical nasties including no Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Laureth Sulfate or Propylene Glycol, as well as it doesn’t contain any Mineral Oil, Paraffin Oil, or Petroleum Products
  • Products contain natural ingredients including Grape Seed Oil, Vitamin E, Omega 6, Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids & Silk Proteins
  • As promised these products really do review dull and damaged hair
  • Hair instantly feels silky soft and looks healthy without being weighed down
  • Well priced for large sized quality products

What I Don’t Like:
  • The Hair Mask is a little cumbersome to use due to the plastic tub

Overall, I really enjoy using these haircare products from Theorie. Used over several weeks I feel that my hair is feeling and looking shiny and healthy, even in spite of starting to need a haircut. These products really do restore and revive dull and damaged hair. And as Theorie says “Use better products. Get better hair. That’s our Theorie” I can only highly recommend.


Ultimate Repair Shampoo: $24.95 / 400ml, $36.95 / 800ml
Ultimate Repair Conditioner: $24.95 /400ml, $36.95 / 800ml
Repair Hair Serum: $36.95 / 100ml
Ultimate Repair Hair Mask: $24.95 / 300g, $39.95 / 500g
- Available from I-Glamour and RY 

*Products were kindly provided for consideration, and have been reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
 
What do you think of these new haircare products from Theorie? Keen on trying? How much money do you spend on haircare products? What’s your preferred brand of haircare?
* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


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24 May 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: OLAY REGENERIST MICROSCULPTING CREAM MOISTURISER AND MIRACLE BOOST YOUTH PRE-ESSENCE

Today I’d like to share with you some anti-ageing products from Olay, the Olay Regenerist Miracle Boost Youth Pre-Essence and the Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream. These products promises to make your skin look up to 10 years younger!! Sounds pretty amazing, right!


The Olay Regenerist Miracle Boost Youth Pre-Essence has been designed to supercharge the benefits of your other skincare products, and it is the first product you apply after cleansing the skin and before moisturising. This super-light pre-essence contains among others Niacinamide, and amino-peptides, and it absorbs quickly into the skin and helps visibly reduce fine lines, pores and firms skin to reveal naturally radiant and well hydrated skin. But it also helps jumpstart skin renewal, in fact, just one drop supposedly helps start the renewal of a million cells!! It also helps increase the absorption of Niacinamide, one of the key active ingredients also found in the Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream.

The Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream also contains Hyaluronic Acid and an amino-peptide complex with super hydrating power to help visibly firm the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and helps restore elasticity and suppleness. Yet while the cream is so rich, it still manages to be a very light cream that doesn’t feel heavy or greasy on the skin or clog up the skin’s pores.

After having used these two products for well over a month and I really like the lightness of both products, and the fact that they both sit well under makeup and that when I use then at night, they don’t make me wake up feeling that my skin is greasy and congested. But I am not too sure if my fine lines and wrinkles have actually minimised or if my pores have gotten smaller - they usually always seem to increase in size as the weather heats up during summer, so the creams have fought an up-hill battle, and the results may have been different during the cooler months of the year. However, I do feel that my skin feels and looks deeply nourished and moisturised, and my skin therefore is more plumb and glowing, and the mere fact that the products have not made my skin break out, something that is very common when I use anti-ageing products means that I wouldn’t hesitate purchasing these products again. 



Olay Regenerist Miracle Boost Youth Pre-Essence RRP $39.33
Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream RRP $48.99

The products are available from select pharmacies, supermarkets and Priceline.

* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


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21 May 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: ELEVEN AUSTRALIA MOISTURE LOTION HAND AND BODY CREAM

I have previously declared my love for the hair care products from Eleven Australia (you can see all my reviews here), so it is exciting that the Australian brand now also has ventured into skincare.


This Moisture Lotion Hand & Body Cream contains a moisturising blend of aloe and organic cucumber and while it is thick and rich, it absorbs quickly into my skin, instantly adding intense moisture to any dry areas, and leaving my feeling soft and smooth all day long, without any greasiness or tackiness.
It has the most gorgeous fresh and light scent from the aloe and cucumber which I just fell in love with immediately, and I love that this continues to linger on the skin for a while.

It comes in a comes in a huge white bottle with a pump that makes it so easy to use. And the actual bottle has such a simple, yet stunning design with its simplistic green writing that it is a shame to store it away, so I've found myself leaving it out on the vanity, so it can be used as a hand cream throughout the day as well.

And thanks to the gorgeous fresh, and also gender-free scent, I've also caught my husband using it!!

Overall a beautiful hand and body lotion, and at just $24.95 for such a huge bottle, it is very well priced too!


Eleven Australia Moisture Lotion Hand & Body Cream- RRP: $24.95 / 500ml
Available from Eleven Australia


* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

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20 May 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: DERMALOGICA OVERNIGHT RETINOL REPAIR

Today I'd like to talk about a fairly newly launched product, the Overnight Retinol Repair from Dermalogica.


This repair treatment promises to accelerate skin renewal and reduce the appearance of skin ageing over night, so I absolutely jumped with joy when I was sent this to trial as it fits my skin to a tee.

It contains among others 0.5% active microencapsulated pure retinol to help increase collagen production and cell turnover, as well as peptides and vitamin C to help fight signs of ageing including uneven skin tone and discolouration. It also contains bioenergised copper amino acid complex to reduce wrinkles and improve skin firmness. To ensure that the skin doesn't get irritated from the retinol, the pack also includes a moisturising Buffer Cream, which you mix with the Retinol Repair. To start with, you can mix as much as one part Retinol Repair with up to three parts Buffer Cream until your skin is acclimated, and hereafter slowly reduce the amount of the Buffer Cream until your skin can tolerate using the Retinol Repair on its own, although you can continue using it with the either the Buffer Cream or with your preferred Dermalogica Moisturiser.

Before use, you cleanse your skin, and then mix the retinol and Buffer Cream in your hand, before applying to your face, avoiding the sensitive eye area.

My combination skin is used to regular doses of retinol, so I was very quickly able to reduce the amount of Buffer Cream used, and start using the Retinol on its own. And I have to say that from the very first use I was in love, although the love grew even bigger when I started using the Retinol on its own without the Buffer Cream, as then I really saw the benefits of the cream.

After just a few uses, and after each subsequent use, I could clearly see that it was making my skin visibly firmer and smoother, and although I doubt that they'll ever completely disappear, fine lines definitely seems minimised too. As well as increasing lines and wrinkles, I also have increasing pigmentation from previous sun-worshipping, as well as dark marks and scarring from past acne - and I have also noticed that my skin seems more even in skin tone, so both pigmentation and acne marks have also clearly faded, in particularly those newer acne marks from a recent breakout. Unfortunately I haven't seen any major difference in the acne scarring, but that said, these scars are also very old, so I doubt there's a lot that can be done about them. But overall when I use this Overnight Retinol Repair before going to bed at night, I wake to a skin that is looking healthier and more glowing in the morning, it is softer and smoother and in short looks like I've just had the longest beauty sleep ever, or like I've just had a facial.

What I also like is that I consequently feel that serums and moisturisers that I use the next day absorb much better in to the skin, and I also need to use far less foundation and concealer to achieve an even look.

I also find that it is brilliant that Dermalogica has been so foresightful as to include the Buffer Cream to ensure that there is no skin irritation, and so that you can tailor the strength and concentration of the Retinol to suit your skin's tolerance.

At $135 this is not a cheap product, but the 30ml bottle will last you quite some time as it is quite concentrated so you only need to use a little, and considering that you'd easily fork out $135 if not more on just one facial, it is really not that much after all! I definitely wouldn't hesitate purchasing this Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair again!


Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair 30ml and Buffer Cream 15ml, RRP: $135
Available from Dermalogica, RY, Adore Beauty and Active Skin


* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


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19 May 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: SCHOLL VELVET SMOOTH EXPRESS PEDI ELECTRONIC FOOT FILE AND SMOOTH INTENSE SERUM

With a toddler it is limited how much time I have to myself, and I will happily admit that my feet are one of the first things to be neglected – and summer only seems to make my feet look even drier and hence even worse, which is not something that thrills me seeing I live in sandals most of the summer. But I’ve found some products which can help make your feet feel (almost) as soft as baby feet in record time. Here are my thoughts on the Scholl Velvet Smooth Express Pedi Electronic Foot File and Smooth Intense Serum;


What They Say:
Scholl Velvet Smooth Express Pedi Electronic Foot File is an electronic foot file that effectively removes hard skin on the foot. The ergonomically shaped device features a fast rotating micralumina head that makes easy work of hard skin, exfoliating the foot through a gentle and safe rotating action. The foot file comes with a replaceable head for up to 12 treatments, and is ready to use with four AA batteries included. Skin is left smooth and soft after application.

RRP: $49.99 – Available from Priceline, pharmacies, variety stores and supermarkets

Scholl Velvet Smooth Intense Serum provides intense hydration for dry feet. It contains hyaluronic acid and green caviar to deliver hydration. The formula also features petavitin, which binds to the skin’s keratin to maintain moisture balance. The serum should be applied after using the Velvet Smooth Express Pedi or whenever skin is feeling dry.

RRP: $14.99 (30ml) - Available from Priceline, pharmacies, variety stores and supermarkets

What I Say:

The Scholl Velvet Smooth Express Pedi Electronic Foot File is basically an electronic foot file that works with the use of AA batteries, and it quickly removes hard skin on the foot, yet it is so gentle that you don’t need to worry that it will shave too much off. If you have very dry feet, it does get a little messy as the dead skin cells are shaven off, so I recommend doing it either outside, or at least sit with a towel underneath.


The bright blue device has an ergonomically shaped handle that is easy to hold, and it has a simple on and off switch and one speed. It has a rotating micralumina head – which is the sand paper that files your feet through its rotating action. It is claimed that the foot file is good for up to 12 treatments, but I am yet to use it that many times to see if that is true, but I guess that it essentially depends on how dry and cracked your feet are. But the good thing is that you can buy replacement heads for $19.95 for two new heads, so you don’t have to buy a whole new foot file, which helps justify the high $49.95 outlay.

It is a little noisy, but I guess that most electronic devices are, including for instance my epilady shaver or even my facial brush!



I have been using the Scholl Velvet Smooth Intense Serum along with the Scholl Velvet Smooth Express Pedi Electronic Foot File for the past few weeks, and it works an absolute treat. The Foot File is quick and easy to use, but when combining with the Intense Serum you get the softest feet you’ll ever have. As soon as you apply it, you can simply both see and feel the results. The skin is visibly smoother and silky soft, and any signs of dry skin instantly disappear.

It comes in a convenient pump bottle and it has a lovely fresh fruity and floral fragrance. The Intense serum contains hyaluronic acid and green caviar and it really does deliver intense hydration, as well as it contains petavitin, which binds to the skin’s keratin to maintain moisture balance all day.

Most foot creams that I have previously tried are thick and sticky, so they take forever to absorb into the skin, and the last thing you want to do is put on your shoes afterwards. But not with the Intense Serum, it is so light and thin, it spreads so quickly and easily, and instantly absorbs into the skin, without any greasiness or stickiness. It is amazing that such a light serum can offer such an intense moisturisation!

At $14.99 for a small 30ml bottle, you may think it is expensive, I mean, foot creams usually come in larger tubes, but don’t be fooled, as it is seriously concentrated so just one small pump of the serum per foot is more than sufficient.

Overall, I am really enjoying using this Express Pedi Foot File and the Smooth Intense Serum as these products really do cut down on the time it takes to keep my feet soft and smooth, and use by use, it takes shorter and shorter to maintain my feet. So if you, like me, have dry feet, then I highly recommend that you try this Express Pedi Foot File along with the serum too. You won’t regret it. I know I am enjoying wearing sandals a little more this summer, knowing my feet are the softest and smoothest they’ve ever been.
* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

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18 May 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: BLISS PEELING GROOVY FACIAL SERUM, FABULOUS FOAMING FACE WASH AND PORE PERFECTING FACIAL POLISH

Bliss is one of those brands I've heard so many good things about, but just never gotten around to try, so I was pretty excited when the Fabulous Foaming Face Wash, Pore Perfecting Facial Polish and the newly launched Peeling Groovy Facial Serum landed at my door step. 


First up is the Bliss Fabulous Foaming Face Wash which is a 2-in-1 cleanser and exfoliator. This cleanser is oil-free so it is the perfect choice for combination and blemish prone skin like mine. It contains rose hip extract, milk thistle, passion flower and chamomile that helps re-balance the skin, provide healing and antiseptic properties, calm and soothe the skin, all while retaining moisture or strip it from essential oils. The blue thin gel has a beautiful gentle fruity fragrance.

The Cleanser is intended to also be used as a makeup remover, but due to the exfoliating beads, I admit to preferring it as my second cleanser after all my makeup has been removed, as it gives my skin a more thorough and deep cleanse.

The actual exfoliating beads are every so tiny, and made from soft, round synthetic spheres, and you almost don't realise that they are there, which also means that they are so gentle on the skin - but once rinsed off, you can tell that they've worked their magic as the skin feels so incredibly soft and smooth.

I really enjoy using this cleanser, and the fact that it is so gentle that I can still use it daily, without irritating my skin.

Next up is the Bliss Peeling Groovy Facial Serum that promises to gently exfoliate the skin's texture while you sleep, reducing large pores, fine lines and dark sun spots, breakouts and other unevenness, making it brighter and more even.

The serum does not contain AHA's which are known to often irritate sensitive skin types, but rather it uses With moisture-magnetising amino acid exfoliators to gently exfoliate the skin, and it also contains Vitamin C to strengthens collagen, brightens, tightens, and lightens the skin, as well as diminish the appearance of fine lines.

The serum is can be used every night after you've cleansed your face, and hereafter you need to wait 3-5 minutes before applying your usual night cream.

The actual serum is rather thin, and just a few pumps is therefore more than sufficient for the full face as it spreads so easily too.

I have to admit having used stronger and more potent cosmeceutical products, so I was a little curious as to how this one would perform - but I was pleasantly surprised. After just a few uses, I started noticing my skin looking and feeling softer and smoother, and especially some recent darker marks from blemishes fading. I also noticed that my skin appeared to become less and less greasy and a few blemishes seemed to fade and vanish a lot quicker than they otherwise would have.

So while I admit to using an actual gritty facial exfoliator, there is no denying that a chemical one like this one, is equally efficient - as in a few short days it did start to make my skin softer and more refined and with a nice healthy glow. It also seems to be less greasy and simply clearer, and as a result, it also meant that I felt that my makeup not only applied easier, but it also stayed put for longer. And all while still being very gentle and not irritating the skin!

Finally, the Bliss Pore Perfecting Facial Polish, which contains micro-granules to gently polish the skin and buff away dead skin cells, cleaning deep down every pore to remove any excess oils, dirt and grime. Due to the tiny scrubbing particles, this scrub is very gentle, and hence suitable for all skin types. While being gentle, I however, still only recommend using it a few times a week to avoid over-exfoliation of the skin. And as promised, it does indeed leave the skin feeling clean, soft and smooth, and my skin does seem less greasy and more refined after use, without being irritated or left feeling dry. And as always once you've exfoliated the skin, it is looking healthier and more glowing.

All in all, I am really impressed with these two products from Bliss, and I certainly wouldn't mind checking out the rest of their range, including their hand and body products!

Bliss Fabulous Foaming Face Wash - RRP: 29.99 / 197ml
Bliss Peeling Groovy Facial Serum - RRP: $65 / 30ml
Bliss Pore Perfecting Facial Polish - RRP: $39.99 / 119g

Available from Priceline

* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


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17 May 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: L'OREAL PARIS INFALLIBLE FX LIP COLORS

Today I'd like to introduce you to a new and very unique range of lipsticks, the L'Oreal Paris Infallible FX Lip Colors. So what is so unique about these - well you see, they actually look a little bit like eyeshadow applicators, if it wasn't for the red shades!


The lipsticks are made from a powder pigment, and claims to be transfer-proof and last for 10 hours with a powdery matte effect with no dryness.


There are six shades in the collection, including;

01 Silencio
02 Like A Virgin
04 Oops I Did It Again
06 Disturbia
07 Say My Name
08 I Gotta Feeling


I've tried three of these shades, Silencio, Opps I did it again and Say My Name.


The pointy tip of the cushion applicator makes it easy to line the lips, and hereby you can glide the larger side of the applicator over the lips for full colour. And what I also like about these is that they allow for a variety of looks, a thin layer will give you a sheer look, while a few more swipes will give you a bolder and brighter look, although I wouldn't call very intense.


L-R: Silencio, Opps I did it again and Say My Name.

And they are indeed very matte on the lips and do hold up very well, although I haven't quite manage to get 10 hours wear from them, but perhaps that's without eating or drinking! But even so they do have a good staying power, and when they do fade, they do so evenly so you just end up with that sheer wash of colour.

Of the shades I tried, I particularly love Oops I Did It Again which is a Fuchsia pink shade and Say My Name which is a classic red shade. The last shade, Silencio is a nude shade that I unfortunately don't quite suit my colouring.

Overall I really enjoy wearing these innovative new Infallible FX Lip Colours, - often matte lipsticks are very drying on the lips, but thanks to the powdery formula these are not, and actually very lovely to wear with their almost weightless feel, and the fact that you can vary the look depending on mood and occasion just adds further to the appeal.


L’Oréal Paris Infallible Matte FX Lip Colour - RRP: $23.95

Available from Priceline, and select Pharmacies, Variety Stores and Supermarkets

* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


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16 May 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: C-LAB & CO COFFEE SCRUB

Coffee scrubs are all the rave at the moment, but for some reason I never got around to trying one, so when a parcel with the C-Lab & Co Coffee Scrub landed unexpectedly at my doorstep I was naturally intrigued. As a coffee lover, I naturally absolutely love the scent of this scrub, as it simply smells like a cup of freshly made coffee, so I just couldn't wait to dig into it and give it a try!


The C-Lab & Co Coffee Scrub is made from 100 % natural ingredients, with the main one being 'just cracked' roasted and ground coffee beans and citrus and almond oils as well as sea salt. It comes in a dark plastic jar, and the actual scrub is like those damp coffee grounds you'll find in the filter of your coffee dripper. It is best used on slightly damp skin, and you then scrub in circular motions, focusing especially on any problem areas. Once done, you leave the scrub on the skin for about 5 minutes, to let the goodness from the oil absorb into the skin.

The jar with the coffee scrub comes packed inside a brown paper bag, and inside you'll also find a huge handful of whole coffee beans, so simply opening this bag and you'll get this divine coffee scent, just like opening a fresh pack of coffee! The only thing is that I really don't know what to do with these beans, as I don't think they'd be good to use in my coffee machine, so it is a little bit of a waste really, yet still a very nice touch.



The coffee scrub is packed densely into the tub and as the actual scrub has a very fine texture, it is very gentle on the skin without being too scratchy, yet exfoliating enough to leave the skin feeling incredibly soft and smooth after all dead skin cells have been gently buffed away. And without my skin feeling dried out, and in actual fact, my skin is left feeling very moisturised thanks to the natural oils in the scrub.

Once out of the shower and my skin is dry, I also notice that the scrub has left a lovely scent on my skin, which luckily enough doesn't smell like you've just soaked in a tub-full of coffee! It is simply a very pleasant and subtle scent with that fresh citrus lingering in the background. So lovely. And my bathroom is left smelling like a coffee shop, which isn't a bad thing, especially when you need that little bit of a kick-start in the mornings!


On the negative, the all the coffee grounds, which unlike salt and sugar scrubs, don't dissolve, do leave a bit of a mess in the shower!


The C-Lab & Co Coffee Scrub does make the claim of helping to reduce cellulite and stretch marks, but I am yet to see that happen, but guess you'd need to use the scrub more frequently and over a longer period of time for that to happen!

Regardless, this is a really gorgeous scrub. As a coffee lover I really adore the scent, and the scrub is making my skin so silky soft and smooth while also having a moisturising effect - so I now understand what all the hype is all about. I'll definitely purchase this one again! 


C-Lab & Co Coffee Scrub - RRP: $24.99 / 330g
Available from Priceline

* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


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