30 November 2016

MARY KAY BEAUTY THAT COUNTS HEARTS TOGETHER LIPSTICK AND LOOK GOOD FEEL BETTER

I think we've all been touched by cancer. Some of closer than others, but regardless it is a horrible illness. While my little, now 18 month old boy was sick and spent over 4.5months at the Royal Children's Hospital, a good part of this time, was spent at the oncology ward - not because he had cancer, but his life-threatening auto-immune disorder meant that he has undergone much the same strong chemotherapy treatment as many cancer and leukaemia patients. And while he was so young he naturally couldn’t tell me how horrible he felt, but he didn't need to, the signs and how he was reacting were very obvious.




And all he wanted was to be in mummy's arms, and between him crying non-stop and nurses coming in and out of his room non-stop around the clock, there were days where hardly got any sleep. It was a tough time for everyone, including our then 2 year old boy at home, who had suddenly been left by his mummy, only to see me for a few hours over the weekend. Most wouldn't understand the stress the whole situation put you in. Not even close family. And certainly not friends, - but as the very true saying says, it's when in need you discover who your true friends are, and so friends we didn't think of as close prior, came out of the woodwork to support, while others we had expected to, just rarely even asked about how things were going. A life lesson well learnt.

Luckily we've now surfaced, and our little boy is doing really well - still a long journey ahead with hospital checkups for life, but he is a very happy and strong willed little boy.

So what's all of this got to do with Mary Kay and lipsticks.... well... For our little baby it naturally didn’t matter that he lost all his hair, thanks to his treatment, as he probably would have lost it anyway, (his big brother also lost all the dark hair he was born with, and then went blonde) - but if you're just slightly older, one thing is that you're feeling horrible, but if you also feel you look worse for wear, it doesn't help at all.

And that's where Mary Kay comes in…. They are doing this amazing campaign called Beauty That Counts Hearts Together Lipstick. For each lipstick sold, Mary Kay will donate a $1 to the Look Good Feel Better program. This program is a free national community service program dedicated to teaching cancer patients- women, men, and teens how to manage the appearance-related side-effects caused by chemotherapy and radiation treatment, leaving them empowered and ready to face their cancer diagnosis with confidence.

As Mary Kay says, "We love changing the world, one lipstick at a time"





The Look Good Feel Better organisation among others have workshops which covers skincare, make-up and headwear demonstrations, leaving them empowered and ready to face their cancer diagnosis with confidence. Here they also give skincare tips on how to alleviate dryness, and makeup tips on how to conceal skin redness and how to draw on eyebrows.

But what's more is that each participant receives a Confidence Kit, full of skincare and make-up products donated by the cosmetic industry to use as tools for application throughout the workshop and to continue in their own homes.

And through the program, participants can meet others in similar situations and build new friendships and networks of support.

The Look Good Feel Better workshops are open to anyone undergoing treatment for any sort of cancer. In Australia, more than 125,000 people have participated in the program, which now offers approximately 1,000 workshops nationwide in more than 180 venues. The program relies heavily upon a team of 1,500 trained and certified cosmetic, beauty and hairdressing professionals who volunteer their time and expertise to help deliver workshops across Australia and as we receive no government funding, it is the generosity of the community that allows us to continue to provide this free service.

How incredible is all of this. So help support this wonderful cause and get yourself, and all of your friends one of the special Mary Kay Beauty That Counts Hearts Together Lipsticks.

 



It is a gorgeous medium pink shade, and feels so soft and moisturising on the lips thanks to containing Vitamin E and a Vitamin C derivative help defend against wrinkle-causing free radicals and everyday environmental stress. And it has the most gorgeous packaging, black with small pink harts, and even the actual lipstick has hearts embossed into it.

You'll love it, so make sure you get yours now, and help spread the word of this wonderful cause.
For more information about Look Good Feel Better - visit their website.
 

Mary Kay Beauty That Counts Hearts Together Lipstick - RRP: $24

Available from Mary Kay


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

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PRODUCT REVIEW: TELETUBBIES MUSIC DAY PLAYSET

I've said it before, but again I have to be honest admit that I am no Teletubbies fan. However, my 1.5year old seems to be drawn to them whenever they’re on TV, and loves his Teletubbies Phone which continues to amuse him on long -drives to and from hospital checkups, as well as he enjoys snuggling with his red Po (you can read about it here) . So needless to say that he also got excited when he was asked to put the Teletubbies Music Day Playset to the test.


 

This Teletubbies Music Day joins yellow Laa-Laa on a melodic adventure. The electronic Music Day Playset features Laa-Laa's favourite things - music and singing, and it comes with musical drums, a piano, and a podium. And if you press any of these buttons, you'll hear Teletubbies music and sound effects.

The playset comes with an exclusive Laa-Laa figure with a trumpet, but you can also purchase the other Teletubbies individually to add to the set.

My little boy loves that he can place Laa-Laa on various spots on the playset including on the stage, and finds that it is fun pushing the different buttons with either his little fingers or by pressing the Laa-Laa figurine.

The Teletubies Music Playset and the Laa-Laa are of sturdy design, and it is compact, so it is also easy to take with you when you're out and about and want your child entertained.

If you little one is into the Teletubbies too, then they're sure to love this Playset, and it would make for a great Xmas pressie too, for both little boys and girls.


Teletubbies Music Day Playset - RRP: $39.99
Available from Big W, Kmart, Kids Stuff, Toyworld, Mr Toys, Target and Myer

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


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29 November 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: LANCOME VISIONNAIRE ADVANCED MULTI-CORRECTING CREAM FROM ACTIVESKIN

Today I've got a gorgeous cream to share with you, which I've been putting to the test for the past many weeks; the Lancome Visionnaire Advanced Multi-Correcting Cream, which is available from the incredible online beauty store, Activeskin



The Lancome Visionnaire Advanced Multi-Correcting Cream contains a combination of Lancome's unique ingredient, LR2412 and Hyaluronic Acid, which combined makes this anti-ageing cream help make the skin feel smoother, more hydrated and plump, reduce the appearance of wrinkles while giving the skin a radiant glow.

The cream has a very light gel texture, which I really love because it absorbs instantly into my combination skin, without leaving it feel greasy or sticky, but rather it leaves it with a velvety soft and smooth feel. And yet, while it is so light, it is still very hydrating too. And all without making my skin feel congested or make it breakout, something intense products often do.

The cream doesn't come with an SPF, which some may find is a negative, but personally I don't mind - I have days where I indoors all day, and then prefer my skin to be free from SPF as I suspect it to contribute to my breakouts, then I can always add the SPF on top on the days where I need it.

And already after a few days of using this cream, I could tell my skin was loving it. My skin in general felt smoother and softer, and somehow fine lines seems less noticeable. But my skin also had a nice radiant and healthy glow. And after using the cream for several weeks, my skin has continued to look better, healthier and more radiant by the day, both with and without makeup. 

The cream is very concentrated, and the gel texture means you only need to use a little, so even after using it for several weeks, I can hardly see I've touched, so it will seriously last you months.

It has a lovely floral scent, which I personally love, so I also love that this scent lingers for a while, so I can continue to smell it, but if you're not a fan of strongly scented products, then this one may not be for you. And of course, also worth mentioning is the stunning turquoise jar that it comes in, which is so stunning that you'd want to leave it out on display.
So all in all I am really loving this cream. It doesn't come cheap, but going by how much my skin clearly loves it, and the fact that it is so concentrated that it will last me months and months, I can only highly recommend it, and will be sad the day my jar is empty!


Lancome Visionnaire Advanced Multi-Correcting Cream - RRP: $139 / 50ml

Available from Activeskin

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


About Activeskin – if you are not familiar with Activeskin, they are an online beauty store stocking over 5000 products. They have a low shipping rate of $6.95, but do offer free shipping when you spend over $95. You can also shop with Activeskin confidence as they not only match a competitor’s price, they will beat their prices by 10% of the difference. They also have a cool rewards system where you accumulate points which can be redeemed against future purchases. And if you need a little help selecting products, you can always just give them a call and a Qualified Skin Expert is there to give you advice.

 
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28 November 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: EVODIA WHITSUNDAY COCONUT AND LIME BODY MIST AND SOAP BAR GIFT SET

Today I am continuing with the great Xmas gift ideas, and this gorgeous gift set from Evodia is the perfect pressie that everybody would love receiving.




This gift set contains a Body Mist and a Nourishing Soap Bar, both with the from Evodia's Whitsunday Coconut & Lime collection. These products contain:

  • Top Notes: Lime, Lemon
  • Middle Notes: Coconut, Verbena
  • Base Notes: Vanilla, Coconut, Cream

And needless to say, they are the perfect scent for those who loves coconut. Containing coconut in both the middle and base notes, this is a strong coconut scent that does evoke memories of beach holiday, so the name of the range, Whitsunday is very appropriate.

The Nourishing Soap Bar also contains Gippsland Goats Milk & Organic Shea Butter. I am personally not a huge fan of soap bars, finding that they quickly become messy (and create extra cleaning in the bathroom too), but the soap bar looks and smells beautiful when left on display in my powder room, or alternatively it can of course also be popped into your lingerie drawer!

Then there's the Body Mist, which comes in a huge 200ml bottle - and because of the scent, it is perfect for using during a holiday, - or to remind you of a holiday! - and spritzed all over your body, will leaving you smelling fabulous.




If you're not familiar with Evodia, it is an Australian brand, where all products are made from floral, fruit and bush extracts, vitamins and essential oils sourced from the Australian environment. The products are also made using purified water, and with no harsh chemicals or preservatives, and they are of course cruelty free too.

The Evodia Whitsunday Coconut & Lime Nourishing Soap Bar and the Body Mist can naturally be purchased individually, but because of Xmas you can purchase them together in a gorgeous and festive red gift boxes, for just $24.95 (saving you almost $15!)


Evodia Whitsunday Coconut & Lime Body Mist and Soap Gift Set with
Body Mist and Soap Bar - RRP: $24.95

Evodia Body Mist - RRP: $200ml / 25.95
Evodia Soap Bar - RRP: $13.95 / 180g

Available from Myer stores, selected pharmacies, gift and homewares stores and from Evodia online.


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


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25 November 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: BHAVE TREAT ME, STYLE ME XMAS GIFT SET

Continuing the Xmas gift ideas, today's suggestion is a amazing - and if you regularly check in on my blog, you'd know that bhave is one of my favourite haircare brands. Correction, it is THE favourite - and if you missed all my posts on bhave, you can easily find them in my product directory.



Bhave is an australian brand, and all products are free from all chemical nasties including sulphates and parabens, and they are so gentle, while they treat the hair, and help bring even the most damaged hair back to being healthy, soft smooth and shiny .

As always, bhave has Xmas sorted with several cool limited edition gift sets, including shampoo and conditioner sets in various varieties, which all come boxed up.

The gift set that particularly caught my eye was the Treat Me, Style Me gift set, which includes:

  • Riot Control Oil (100ml)
  • Fresh Ends (50ml)
  • Super Nova Leave in Elixir (120ml)
  • Gold Clutch Purse

The Riot Control Oil (see my full review here) contains Certified organic Argan Oil which is jam-packed with antioxidants that help strengthen and nourish the hair. The light and non-greasy oil helps keep the hair soft, and it also helps smooth down frizz and flyaways, all while adding a beautiful healthy shine to the hair. It can be used in both wet hair before heat styling, as well as after for a glossy finish.

The Fresh Ends (see my full review here) is a leave-in cream to be used in dry hair, although if needed, it can also be used on towel-dried hair. The formula contains raw natural keratin and slow releasing peptides as well as certified organic argan oil to continuously repair hair damage and strengthen the elasticity of the hair, while leaving it silky soft and smooth. It also helps to control flyaway hairs, while treating split ends, all while making the hair look so healthy. The Fresh Ends has recently been repackaged, and while it still comes in the same easy to use push-top jar, that dispenses the treatment from the top, it is now a pretty mint-green shade.

Finally, the gift set also contains bhaves newest product release, the Super Nova Leave In Elixir (see my full review here). This treatment contains among others sunflower seed oil, aloe-vera and other fruit and flower extracts, and it is truly multi-tasker as it helps treat a multitude of hair issues from detangling and adding moisture to the hair, fighting frizz, repairing and strengthen brittle, damaged locks and split ends, thicken thinning hair and promote new growth, balance the scalp, protect the hair colour from fading due to UV rays, - and of course, all while leaving the hair looking soft, healthy and shiny. The light treatment spray is to be used in towel dried hair, and as it is so concentrated, only the smallest amount is needed. It comes in a super stylish silver bottle, and smells amazing too. (and if you can't read between the lines, I am beyond impressed with this Super Nova, I'm in love!!)

And then there's the bonus gold clutch purse, which is so glam and stylish, and perfect for all the Xmas parties.


Treat Me, Style Me gift set - RRP: $109.95 (Valued At $173.95)

Available from bhave and selected hair salons and Alive Skin & Hair

* Some products may have been kindly provided for editorial consideration, and have been reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy, and reviews are 100% honest and based on personal opinion and experience. Note that The Beauty & Lifestyle Hunter is not a professional or expert, so please do not substitute these opinions as professional advice. Also note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means you pay no extra, but I get a small commission fee if you click through and buy something. And if so, thank you much for your supporting the running costs of my blog. xx


Remember that in between my blog posts you can always keep up with me on TwitterFacebookBloglovin or Instagram

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24 November 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW AND XMAS GIFT IDEA: REAL TECHNIQUES DELUXE GIFT SET FROM RY

Who doesn't love the Real Techniques brushes. So next in line of Xmas gift ideas is this Deluxe Gift Set Real Techniques which is available from the online beauty shopping site, RY. This limited edition Deluxe Gift set from Real Techniques would without a doubt make any makeup fanatic happy. 



I've personally already got a fair collection of Real Techniques Brushes (and their new miracle sponges, if you haven't yet tried them, you really must!), and they truly are fantastic value for money. They have been used and used over and over again, and washed more times than I can count, but they remain as new. And what better time to stock up or extend your collection or please someone else thank with this beautiful gift set. 


The deluxe set includes all the essential makeup brushes that you could need, including;  

  • Multi task brush
  • Tapered foundation brush - exclusive edition
  • Angled highlighter brush - exclusive edition
  • Base shadow brush
  • Fine liner brush
  • Glam-to-go clutch - exclusive edition
The Multi Task Brush is as the name suggests a large rounded brush which is a great multi-tasker, perfect for powder, blush or bronzer, while the Tapered Foundation Brush has a dense and round tapered edge for the perfect and flawless application of your liquid foundation. Then there's the Angled Highlighter Brush makes it easy to contour and highlight the cheeks or contour the nose.
And then there's the Base Shadow Brush, which is a large eye shadow brush that is perfect for covering your lid smoothly and evenly with base colour, while the Fine Liner Brush is perfect for those pots of cream eyeliner, drawing a perfectly fine line each and every time. .
The Tapered Foundation Brush, Angled highlighter brush are exclusive brushes you’ll only find in this gift set – and the same with the stylish cream coloured Glam-to-go envelope clutch that is also included with the gift set. This clutch is perfect for storing your brushes, use as a travel case for your brushes, or even a little clutch for going out.
The Real Techniques Deluxe Gift Set is exceptional retails at $79.99
Available from RY

* Some products may have been kindly provided for editorial consideration, and have been reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy, and reviews are 100% honest and based on personal opinion and experience. Note that The Beauty & Lifestyle Hunter is not a professional or expert, so please do not substitute these opinions as professional advice. Also note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means you pay no extra, but I get a small commission fee if you click through and buy something. And if so, thank you much for your supporting the running costs of my blog. xx


Remember that in between my blog posts you can always keep up with me on TwitterFacebookBloglovin or Instagram

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23 November 2016

PRODUCT REVEW: REVITANAIL HAND AND NAIL CREAM, REVIVAL KIT AND REMOVER WIPES

I'm lucky that I've been blessed with good nails. They grow well and fast, and I rarely get any issues with them. But every so often they do go crazy, and start breaking, and that's when I reach for the Revitanail products as I know they are efficient and work very fast too.




The Revitanail Hand & Nail Cream is thick and creamy and adds intense nourishment and moisture to dry, dehydrated hands and nail to help improve the skin texture and tone. It contains among others Aloe leaf juice and green tea extract to soothe the skin as well as avocado oil and pear extract to nourish nails and improve appearance. The cream also contains multi-vitamins with antioxidants to help rejuvenate as well s pearl extract and calcium to strengthen the nails.

In spite of the cream being thick, it absorbs quickly into the hands and nails, and without leaving them feeling greasy, so you can get back on that keyboard immediately. I wash my hands a lot during the day, thanks to forever changing nappies on my two toddlers, but after using this Hand & Nail Cream a couple of times during the day, for just a few days , I cold both see and feel that my skin on my hands were looking and feeling softer and smoother, and especially my dried cuticles in much better condition, and my nails have never been healthier. The cream as a gentle gorgeous scent, that I absolutely adore.

Then there's the Revitanail 2-Step Revival Kit, which contains the Nail Strengthener and the Nourishing Oil. I've been using both for a long time and always make sure to have a bottle of each on hand. The Nail Strengthener is truly magical. Each time my nails play up and start to break of split, I reach for the Nail Strengthener, which thanks to being fortified with calcium helps to harden, strengthen and protect nails, and eliminate peeling, flaking and chipping. The Strengthener is used as a treatment, where you apply a coat daily for 5 days, and then remove it on the 7th day, and then repeat the process three times more, so a full treatment cycle lasts 28 days. You can do another cycle, but allow the nails to rest for 1-2 weeks between treatments. And within just a few days of using this treatment my nails are clearly stronger and stop splitting, after a treatment, my nails are always in tip top shape again.

The second part of the kit is the Nourishing Oil, which is used by massaging a little into the nails and cuticles following the application of the Nail Strengthener, although you can also continue using the oil during the rest period. Generally I try to remember using this oil a few times a week, when I watch TV, and you'd be amazed at how quickly it can mend dry and neglected cuticles.

Finally, there's the Revitanail Conditioning Remover Wipes, which quickly remove all traces of nail polish. And because these wipes are free from acetone, they are very gentle on the nails and cuticles, and as they are also enriched with vitamin E, they help nourish and condition the nails too. The wipes are presoaked, and really do remove any nail polish quickly and easily. I really love these Remove Wipes, as they are so gentle on my nails, and unlike most other nail polish removers which usually have a very strong chemical smell, these wipes actually have a lovely gentle scent too.

Overall these products from Revitanail really are incredible - the Hand Cream, Remover Wipes and Nourishing Oil will help ensure optimum health of your hands, nails and cuticles on an every day basis, while the Strengthening Treatment will get your nails back to tip-top help in no time, should they have a crisis.


Revitanail Hand & Nail Cream - RRP: $19.95 / 100g
Revitanail 2-Step Revival Kit - RRP: $25.95 / 2 x 14ml
Revitanail Conditioning Remover Wipes - RRP: $6.95 / 30 wipes

Available from Myer, David Jones, Priceline and select pharmacies


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

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22 November 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: REMINGTON SALON PRO SILK CERAMIC HAIR DRYER

Back in the day where I got up early every morning to go to my very corporate job, I always used to hair dryer after washing my hair but these days, being at home with our two little boys, I admit to often leaving it to dry naturally. My long thick hair is naturally thanking me for this, generally a lot healthier, but the main reason I am not doing it, unless I'm going out, is that with two little toddlers running around my legs, it simply takes way to long time. But then the Remington Salon Pro Silk Ceramic Hair Dryer landed on my desk…  
 
 
 
 
The Remington Salon Pro Silk Ceramic Hair Dryer is a pretty powerful one, featuring a massive 2400W for a powerful professional performance, but I also has a myriad of other features, including;  
 
  • 2400W Powerful AC Dryer
  • 140km/h fast airflow speed for quicker drying
  • Silk ceramic technology that provides even heat distribution for a silky smooth finish
  • Conditioning ionic technology
  • Turbo boost function to increase airflow by 10%
  • True cool shot to finish an set your style
  • 90% more ions for a frizz free shine
  • 3 heat and 2 speed settings
  • Includes two concentrator nozzles and a 'curling' diffuser for control airflow and styling
  • Hang loop
  • Removable filter for easy cleaning
  • 5 year warranty    
 
 
 
 
This hair dryer comes in a gorgeous red shade, which is such a refreshing change from the usual black hair dryers that have dominated the market for the past many years. I also really like that it is so powerful, as it really does dramatically cut down the time it takes to dry my thick long hair. I also love that it has several heat settings so I can tailor it to my needs, and also finish off with a blast of cool air at the end to cool down the hair follicles and set my hair style. The two different concentrator nozzles, in different sizes as well as the 'curling' diffuser, are great inclusions too for specific styling, and lately I've been particularly loving the 'curling' diffuser, where I first spray my hair with a little saltwater texture spray, before drying it for natural beachy waves.
 
 
 
 
And the fact that it has both silk ceramic technology and a conditioning ionic technology, combined means that my hair is infused with hydration and moisture for a more healthy and shiny looking hair free from frizz.
 
 
 
 
Considering the quality and how powerful this stylish hairdryer from Remington is, this is a really reasonably priced, and would make for a great Christmas present too.
 
    
Remington Salon Pro Silk Ceramic Hair Dryer - RRP: $79 
Available from The Good Guys, Myer and other leading electrical retailers 
 
 
* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

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PRODUCT REVIEW: JJ COLE COLLECTIONS CHANGING CLUTCH

If you have a baby, you'll know what it is like to have a bag that is always chock-full with all the necessities that you need for your little ones. Nappies, wipes, change pad, change of clothes etc etc, - but thanks to this cool Changing Clutch from JJ Cole Collections, you can now be a little more organised.




The clever change pad folds up to look like a stylish clutch, and it conveniently holds both a wipes case and diapers, in a fold out pocket and pouch flap, so you can easily access them while you're changing your bub.

The changing pad is rather large (19" x 28"), so there's room for even a growing toddler, and it has a slightly padded head rest to make it more comfortable too.




The clutch has a stunning and simplistic black/white and red design, that doesn't 'scream baby change pad' and it has a convenient strap with a hook so you can attach it to i.e. the pram or simply carry it around your writs. I also like that the inside of the change pad is made from a wipeable plastic material so you can clean it, without damaging.




This is such a cool and stylish change pad, and at just $29.95 it is a great bargain too considering the high quality.


JJ Cole Collections Changing Clutch - RRP: $29.95
Available from major baby goods stores

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

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21 November 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: EVY IQ-ONEGLIDE STYLER 1.5

Once upon a time my hair was straight, but then after my last pregnancy something has happened to my hair. It is starting to go curly. Quite curly actually, and in spite of my hair being very very long and thick, it is close to ringlets, and even my hair dress is amazed at this change. But for some reason it is mainly in the back and neck, while the front is still straigh-ish, so unless I have my hair up in pony, plait of bun, I do feel that I need to either curl it, or straighten it, so it doesn't look odd. But as my hair again is so thick and long, this is a time-consuming process, and with two little toddlers, I rarely haven't got a lot of spare time! So when the EVY iQ-OneGlide Styler, a hair straightener, landed on my desk, I was naturally beyond excited.

 




The EVY Professional hair stylers features a unique patterned Japanese mineral technology, which has 32 natural negative ion-generating minerals - a blend of post-volcanic minerals which work to micronise or break down water molecules so they can more easily penetrate the hair follicle, and thereby help add hydration and moisture to the hair as you style it, for a hair that’s silky smooth and healthy looking. How high-tech does that sound!!


 
Along with the ion-generating minerals infused into the straightening plate, the EVY iQ OneGlide also features 24-carat gold to glide through the hair more smoothly and add even deeper hydration to the hair, ensuring better inner health of the hair, and consequently less hair breakage and split ends. But the styler also has; 
 
  • A unique 3-strip plate design to allow it to move and glide through the hair without catching
  • A digital temperature/d; control from 130-210 degrees Celsius
  • Automatic shut-off function after 60mins
  • A soft touch finish to make it easier to style and curl
  • Metal ceramic heater for faster heating
  • Large 1.5" plates
  • 3m long rotating cord
  • Heat proof roll bag for storage and travelling 
  
So how did this EVY iQ-OneGlide Styler perform. Well for starters I am pleased to say that it really does heat up super fast, so I can immediately get on with styling my hair. And as claimed, it does glide through my hair quickly and easily without any resistance, and it takes just one go, and my hair is left super soft and smooth. And, unlike after using other hair straighteners, my hair doesn't feel like it has been dried out or distressed, but it really does look and feel super soft and smooth, and it really does look healthy and shiny, so this unique mineral technology really does seem to make a difference.
 
The straightener is light and easy to hold, also in a small hand, and it is easy to use thanks to the 3m long rotating cord that ensures it doesn't get tangled up. The wider 1.5" plates makes it quicker to style my hair too, as I can simply do larger and thicker sections at a time. I also love that it has a digital display so it is easy to see the heat setting, and while it is easiest and quickest to style my thick long hair with the highest, 210C setting, I do love that it has a large range of heat settings from 130-210C to cater for a range of different hair types. And often distracted by my two toddlers (and adding a bit of forgetfulness on top!), I also love the fact that the hair styler will automatically shut off after 60 minutes.
 
   
 
 
Needless to say that I have collected a range of hair styling tools over the years, but common for all, is that I do not know how to best store them, so I also love that the EVY comes with a cool back that makes both storage, and taking the styler with you on holidays, that much easier.
 
    
At $299 this EVY Professional iQ-OneGlide Styler 1.5" is not the cheapest of styler, but if you ask me, it is worth it - and if you regularly straighten your hair you'll agree, that it is a price worth paying for a styler that cares for your hair as you use it!
 
 
EVY Professional iQ-OneGlide Styler 1.5" - RRP: $299
Available from AquaBaci
 
*Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


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19 November 2016

SANTAS MAGICAL KINGDOM

Do you know there's only 36 days until Xmas?? Well actually, for my family, being Scandinavian and celebrating on Christmas Eve, there's just 35, oh my! And a clear sign that Santa is coming to town very soon, is the opening of Santa's Magical Kingdom in Melbourne.




Last night, we went to the official opening, and let me tell you, it was very magical. And even more so, because of our little boys illness and subsequent transplant, we've had to isolate ourselves for almost a year and a half to protect him, and this was one of our first family outings - and seeing our two little boys giggle and have so much fun, couldn't make me any happier.




Santa's Magical Kingdom is an annual event held at the Caulfield Racecourse (although it is now also running in Perth!), and it is sure to bring Christmas joy for both young and old, with attractions and activities catering for a large range of ages.

You can among others;

- Watch the 35 minute Christmas Circus Show
- Play with snow in the snow dome
- Walk through the beautiful Snowland and feel the snow falling!
- Have your photo taken with the Snow Queen in her stunning sleigh

- DIY activities, including
  - Decorate your own ginger bread man
  - Make your own Christmas tree decorations
  - Write and post your own letter to Santa

Have fun on the many rides including among others;
  - Ferris Wheel
  - Merry Go Round
  - Super Slide
  - Dinosaur Ride
  - Combi Bus Ride
  - Space Ship Ride
  - Fishing Pond

- Meet Mrs Claus and listen to her read Christmas books during Storytelling time
- Meet and get your photo taken with Frosty the Snow Man, Rudolph, and some of the helpful elves




Our boys being only 1.5yo 3.5yo in particularly enjoyed the part of the Circus Show where dogs were performing and doing cheeky tricks and stunts. And needless to say that the ginger bread man decorating was also a success, as well as the rides designed for the youngest members of the family, including the Combi bus ride, the spaceship ride and the dinosaur ride, also put huge smiles on their little faces. 




Overall, it was a great night out that the whole family enjoyed, so I can easily see this becoming a new Christmas tradition each year for our little family.


The Santa's Magical Kingdom event runs from November 18 until December 23, 2016. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Santa's Magical Kingdom Online 

* Tickets to event kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


 
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18 November 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: VTECH TOOT-TOOT DRIVERS

Xmas is expensive, and when you have kids even more. Not just because you need and want to give your own kids some nice presents, but because they are likely to be invited to Xmas parties or be participating in Kris Kringle in their daycare, so you'll also need to be buying additional pressies. And finding something that is not only a good quality, but at a reasonable price too, can be difficult. Luckily Vtech has the boys (and perhaps some girls too!?) covered with their range of Toot Drivers.




These small electronic cars are so adorable, and as they are small, they are the perfect size for small hands. There's a whole heap of different to chose from, including Car, Police Car, Fire Engine, Helicopter, Quad Bike, Dumper Truck, Taxi, Off-Roader and Bus - and regardless of which one you pick, they all flash and respond with music and sounds when driven across the Vtech SmartPoint Playsets. And when you push the actual cars, they all have different sounds and cute little phrases, such as 'I'm a Little Truck, Let's make a delivery", or "I'm a useful ambulance", or "I'm a brave police car".




And to make sure your child (or you!!) won't get tired from the same songs and sounds playing over and over again, each vehicle has three different sing-along songs, 6 melodies and lots of little phrases and sounds which are activated when you push the windscreen buttons. And as a parent I love that they all have an on-off button underneath - which is needed, as it only takes a tiny bump in a toy basket or they will start playing, so it is necessary to turn them off when they are not being played with.

All of this helps teach your little one about sounds and singing, while they develop language, motor skills and imaginative role-play.




The Toot-Toot Vehicles are intended for kids aged between 1 and 5 years, and I can say that both my boys aged, 3.5 years and 1.5 years both are having so much fun playing with them.

I love that they are having so much fun with these, and they are so well priced too, that they would make for the perfect Xmas pressie for little friends.


Vtech Toot-Toot Drivers - RRP: $11.95 each

Available from department stores, some variety stores and major toy retailers

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

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17 November 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: WELEDA JARDIN DE VIE AGRUME EAU NATURELLE, SEA BUCKTHORN BODY LOTION AND CITRUS HAND CREAM

If you regularly check into the BLH blog, I'm sure you've heard it a few times by now, but I absolutely adore anything citrus scented, so when the new Jardin De Vie Agrume Eau Naturelle, Sea Buckthorn Replenishing Body Lotion and the Citrus Hand & Nail Cream from Weleda landed on my desk, needless to say that got a tad excited…




Both the Natural perfume and the Body Lotion are a part of Weleda Sea Buckthorn containing Sea buckthorn berries, which contain a super-rich cocktail of antioxidant vitamins, flavonoids and essential fatty acids, including the one of the highest amounts of beta-carotene and vitamins C and E of any fruit or vegetable, all of which helps protect against free-radical damage that is associated with the signs of ageing.

The Jardin De Vie Agrume Sea Buckthorn Eau Naturelle Naturel Perfume is a part of Weleda's new range of natural perfumes, which combine fragrance with the holistic approach, still using natural ingredients including natural essential oils. The Jardin De Vie Agrume is the perfect summers fragrance. It contains essential oils from grapefruit to make it fresh and uplifting, while the mandarin oils adds a sweet, yet energising touch. Finally it also contains sandalwood to make the scent a little more complex and make it appear more soft and powdery.

I absolutely adore this scent, it is so fresh and zesty, and so light too, so it is so gorgeous to wear on a sunny spring or summers day. It is not a heavy scent, so it is also perfect as a casual everyday scent. It doesn't have the longest of wear, but it is reasonably priced, so you can afford to reapply halfway through the day, and then you can also admire the gorgeous orange bottle that makes me think of a beautiful summers sunset. I also love that it is free from synthetic preservatives, chemicals, fragrances, colourants.

Then there's the matching Sea Buckthorn Replenishing Body Lotion, which is jam packed with skin-related essential fatty acids to provide continuous visible care for dry skin. It contains among others organic sea buckthorn, which is rich in vitamins, mallow extract and shea butter to protects skin from moisture loss and help activate its self-regulating functions.

I don't particularly have dry skin, but I've absolutely been loving this body lotion. Often body lotions for dry skin are thick and take forever to absorb into the skin, but that's not the case with this one, it is light, and absorb quickly, and without leaving any greasiness behind. And my skin feels so soft and smooth, and that gorgeous fresh and zesty citrusy scent continues to linger on my skin for hours, which I really like too. This also helps intensify the perfume, and make the scent last longer on the skin too. And I love that it comes in a convenient pump bottle as it makes it so easy to use.

Finally there's the Weleda Citrus Hand & Nail Cream, which contains lemon to help support the skin's collagen and elastin foundation, helping to firm, hydrate and refresh, cool and stimulate the skin. But lemon is also known to help regulate the skin's pH balance and has an astringent and cleansing effect, as well as help tone tired looking skin and reduce the appearance of broken capillaries.

The cream also contains calendula and viola extracts, carnauba and wool wax and almond oil, to help protect fragile nails and keep the cuticle soft while supporting growth of healthy strong nails

The cream is thick and creamy and does take a while to absorb into the skin, but it is worth the wait, as once it has, your hands are left velvety soft and smooth, and gone is any dryness, even my dry and neglected cuticles are clearly enjoying this cream, looking a lot better than they have in a long time. I do not have broken capillaries on my hands, but I have noticed that the skin is looking more healthy and glowing, and in general simply younger looking too.

And needless to say that the added citrus essential oil makes this hand cream smell incredibly zesty fresh and invigorating, just how I like it.

For everyday use when you're in a hurry and don’t want to leave greasy fingerprints behind, this may not be the ideal hand cream, but personally I really love using it at night when I sit and chill on the couch or just before bed, so I have no doubt that I’ll be purchasing a replacement when I run out!



Weleda Jardin De Vie Agrume Eau Naturelle - RRP:$34.95 / 50ml
Weleda Sea Buckthorn Replenishing Body Lotion - RRP: $25.95 / 200ml
Weleda Citrus Hand & Nail Cream - RRP: $17.95 / 50ml

David Jones, Pure Baby, Weleda Online and select other retailers

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



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16 November 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW AND XMAS GIFT IDEA: LULU AND LIPSTICK FROM RY

Christmas is getting closer - not even 6 weeks now! So if you haven't yet started thinking about pressies, now is the time. So today I am also going to give you another great gift suggestions.. Beautiful makeup brushes and stunning diamante encrusted eyelash curlers from Lulu and Lipstick which are available from RY.




I have put the lilac Powder Brush from Lulu & Lipstick to the test, and let me tell you, the lilac colour with the added rosegold, is not only super stunning, it is also incredibly soft.

Although the Powder Brush is called a powder brush, really you can use it for a bit of everything, including bronzer and blush, or even highlighter, and the soft fibres means that it blends your makeup perfectly, avoiding any harsh lines or cakeiness.

But what's even better, is that right now, when you purchase any makeup brush, you get a purple diamante encrusted rosegold eyelash curler valued at $29.95, included as a bonus! Just one tiny squeeze of the lashes with this eyelash curler and your lashes are left with a lovely curl, that helps open up your eye and make you look more awake. And it looks so girlie and glam with its purple diamantes, so it will look stunning on your bathroom shelf or dresser.

I'm really enjoying these products from Lulu and Lipstick as they are so pretty, and so lovely to use too, so I wouldn't mind getting my little hands on more of their products, and I'm sure that anyone gifted with these for Xmas will be one happy little camper too!


Lulu & Lipstick Powder Brush - RRP: $34.95
Lulu & Lipstick Eyelash Curler - RRP: $29.95

Available from RY

* Some products may have been kindly provided for editorial consideration, and have been reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy, and reviews are 100% honest and based on personal opinion and experience. Note that The Beauty & Lifestyle Hunter is not a professional or expert, so please do not substitute these opinions as professional advice. Also note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means you pay no extra, but I get a small commission fee if you click through and buy something. And if so, thank you much for your supporting the running costs of my blog. xx


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