PRODUCT REVIEW: ESSIE SUMMER COLLECTION

Today I am excited to be able to share with a new collection from essie, the Summer Collection*;

 

What They Say:

Dip your toes and fingers into bold, nature inspired hues reminiscent of sunburnt summer. With beautiful ocean blues, sea mist creams, beach ball pinks and blazing sunset oranges, essie’s limited edition summer collection is a range of graphic saturated colour that will appeal to your heart as you survive the heat.
 

RRP: $16.95 (13.5ml) – Available from Priceline and select pharmacies during November and December  only

What I Say:

Isn’t this collection just beautiful with its bright bold shades. The limited edition collection include 6 shades:

L:R: Urban Jungle, Roarrange, Ruffles & Feathers, Haute in the Heat,
Strut Your Stuff, and Fierce no Fear

 

Urban Jungle – Alabaster Orchid

Roarrorange – Bold Orange

Ruffles & Feathers – Peacock Teal

Haute in the Heat – Hot Raspberry

Strut Your Stuff – Cobalt Aqua

Fierce no Fear – Cocoa Mahogany
   

L:R: Urban Jungle, Roarrange, Ruffles & Feathers, Haute in the Heat,
Strut Your Stuff, and Fierce no Fear

 

All the six different shades are so stunning, so it is, as always hard to pick a favourite but the green Ruffles and Feathers, the turquoise Strut Your Stuff and the Pink Haute in the Heat are certainly all amongst my favourites, while there also never anything more stunning like a pale greyish-white on tanned hands and feet, and the mid-brown Fierce no Fear is a true classic that will see you right into autumn as well (which luckily is still months away!)

The summer collection also features essie's new creamier and faster drying formula and a thicker brush that makes it even easier to apply evenly.

I do feel that two coats is required for a nice finish, and generally I manage to get 4-5 days wear from a manicure, which can be extended by a day or two by adding a topcoat.

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

 

What do you think of this new Summer Collection from essie? Keen on getting any of the shades?

 

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PRODUCT REVIEW: PHILIPS SONICARE DIAMONDCLEAN BLACK EDITION

I have always preferred using an electric toothbrush, and have been using one for longer than I can remember. Consequently I have had quite a few different ones over the years, and when they start to age, I never hesitate in spending the money on a new one. The health of my teeth is very important to me. So when I was asked to trial the new Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Black Edition*, I naturally excitedly accepted. Here are my thoughts; 

 

What They Say:

The Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Black Edition is clinically proven to remove up to 100% of plaque from hard-to-reach places compared to a manual toothbrush, and to improve gum health in only two weeks. It is also clinically proven to whiten teeth in one week.

RRP: $299.95 – Available from The Shaver Shop, Harvey Norman, Myer, David Jones and selected national retailers


What I Say:


The Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Black Edition toothbrush arrived the day before my recent trip to Europe, and as soon as I unpacked it, I immediately understood why it has been called the James Bond of toothbrushes.

With its sleek mixture of matte black finish and chrome, the toothbrush simply so sleek, sophisticated and stylish, and like no other electric toothbrush that I’ve ever seen before. But what’s more is that the toothbrush has a funky visual display that only illuminates once the power button is turned on.

The actual toothbrush uses sonic technology to produce a powerful dynamic cleaning action with five brushing modes to offer a unique full mouth clean.

The brushing modes include; 

• Clean – the standard mode for a whole mouth clean 
• White – removes surface stains to whiten teeth
• Polish – brightens and polishes teeth to bring out their natural brilliance
• Gum Care – gently stimulates and massages gums
• Sensitive – an extra-gentle mode for sensitive teeth

 

I enjoy using all the modes, except for the sensitive one, but that is only because I do not have sensitive teeth, but otherwise it is certainly a great addition which makes it so much more user-friendly, and suitable for the whole family to use.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unfortunately however, although it does come with two brushes, it doesn’t have a specific spot to store the brushes, other than in the bottom of the included glass, which does a little ‘messy’, as well as unfortunately there is no way to distinguish between the brushes, making it difficult to share the ‘handle’, which I normally do with my husband.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

On that note, the tooth brush also has a unique charging system in the shape of a charging glass. When I first saw in in the pack, I thought it was just an addition, a stylish glass for the bathroom, but then I realised that when the toothbrush rests in the glass (and it is obviously plugged in!), it is actually charging! How cool is that!!

 

 

And on the note of charging, the Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Black Edition is the perfect travel companion as it comes with a stylish black case, which is lined with a funky lime green colour, - and this case also serves as a USB case which can be plugged into a laptop computer to charge it up. Although, as the toothbrush holds three weeks of charge, you don’t need to use this feature a lot.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

So what is my verdict on this toothbrush? – I LOVE it. Again, I have used a fair few different electronic toothbrushes over the years, and this one is by far the best one. It is fairly silent, and I can feel that it cleans my teeth better than any other toothbrush – and a recent checkup at the dentist confirmed that, as for the first time in a long time he commented on how clean my teeth were, and made no mention of the amount of plaque buildup, which he is otherwise quick to do – so showing that the toothbrush is practically doing the job of a hygienist!!  

 

 

 

 

 

  

I also love that the toothbrush has a set timer so it will stop when the recommended brush time, which is 2 minutes is over, and it has a convenient short ‘buzz’ every 30 seconds so you know that it is now time to move on to the next quadrant of your teeth, to ensure that all your teeth get an equally good clean.

  

 

The toothbrush is not only extremely stylish looking, it also features some very advanced settings. At just under $300 this toothbrush is not cheap, and possibly one of the more expensive ones on the market, and while again I would love for it to include a holder for the brush heads, it is how it actually cleans my teeth that is the most important feature – and that it does better than any other toothbrush I’ve ever used – and if this means that it can maintain the health of my teeth better it will essentially long-term cut down on my dentist bills, making it totally worth every cent! Highly recommended.

 

 

*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

 

 

Do you use an electric toothbrush? What do you look for in a toothbrush?

 

  

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PRODUCT REVIEW: LUST HAVE IT NOVEMBER 2014

As all subscribers would know, the October edition of Lust Have It arrive rather late, in my case on Friday the 7th November - just over two weeks ago. At the time of writing about that box, I also mentioned that the November really should arrive at my doorstep within the next 10 days to be back on track. Well, it didn’t quite make that, but I am pleased to say that it has actually arrived in the the relevant month this month, and thus Lust Have It seems to have caught up with delays again. Anyway, here are my thoughts on the November Lust Have it Box*;

What They Say:

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.


RRP: Lust Have It Box (monthly) RRP: $19.95, Eco Box (quarterly) RRP: $29.95 – 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 


What I Say:

As per previous months, this month the goodies again arrived in a pink see-through mesh bag. I am starting to have quite a few of these floating around, and while they are handy to store things in, I am starting to feel they are a little wasted. I guess essentially I’d rather the items simply come in a padded envelope and instead of the mesh cosmetic bag there would be an additional sample.. Anyway, that is just my opinion. Anyway, these are the products in bag this month;

 Natralus Paw Paw Pure Gel – Full Sized (RRP: $6.15/30g)

Paw Paw has many benefits including being useful for sunburn, relieve dry skin, rashes and minor burns. And of course, it Is perfect to keep your lips soft too. I currently use paw paw on my little boys chin as a barrier cream to protect against dribble rash, so this backup tube will come in handy. It doesn’t help 100%, but nothing sadly seems to, not even prescription creams, - and at least I know this is natural and free from nasty ingredients.

The Cosmetic Kitchen Pressed Mineral Blush in Sherbert – Full Size (RRPP: $34.95/8g)

This is a mineral blush that has added jojoba oil to moisturise, and herbal extracts to care for the skin. The colour Sherbert is a lovely peachy-pink shade that is very wearable, so I look forward to testing this one out. A great, and welcome addition to this month’s box!


Essenzza Fuss Free Natural Japanese Facial Treatment Masks x 2 (RRP: $4.95 each)

These are cloth masks, and I got two anti-ageing and antioxidant masks with Moroccan argan oil and vitamin C, intended to help slow the ageing process and leave the skin looking brighter. I love cloth masks as they are fuss free to use, and these sound pretty good too, especially as they contain natural ingredients and are free from parabens and sulphates. Now only problem when you have a small toddler is to find time to relax for the recommended 20-30 minutes. 

Aveda Color Conserve Daily Colour Protect – Sample Size, 10ml (RRP: $49.95/100g)


 

This leave-in treatment made from 93% natural ingredient promises to help maintain hair colour for up to six weeks. This sounds pretty good to me, although it has been a while since I had my hair coloured, I do look forward to trying it out. And as I generally use leave-in treatments after each hair wash, I don’t mind this sample either. My only objection is the size of the sample, which again typical for Aveda is sadly very small, and it hardly contains sufficient product for one use for my very long and thick hair!



So Susan Intense Water Based Pure Luminiser - Full sized (RRP: $35)

This luminiser is infused with micronized pearlescent pigments and can be used as a highlighter on cheekbones and brow bones. I can also imagine that adding a tiny drop to your matte foundation would give a nice slow to the whole face. I do look forward to trying this out as it does give a nice sheen that is subtle and not too over the top.


So that’s it, the November Lust Have It Box. As you may recall, I have not been too impressed with the last few month’s boxes but at least t I feel that this one is an improvement as I do like the inclusion of particularly the Cosmetic Kitchen Blush and the Fuss Free Facials Masks, and well as the Natralus Paw Paw and the So Susan Luminiser won’t go to waste either.

Value wise the box has a combined value of over $90, so again, it is value for money, especially if you are actually going to use all the products! So well done to Lust Have It, - the contents doesn’t leave me squealing with excitement, but I am certainly happier with this month’s contents, a huge improvement over the last few months, so one can only hope that Lust Have It can continue on this path in the coming months.

*This product was kindly provided for consideration, and it has been reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


If you are considering subscribing, don’t forget that you can get $5 off your first box by using the unique code LIFESTYLE at the checkout on the Lush Have It website


What do you think of this month’s Lust Have It Box? Are you subscribing, or considering subscribing? Any products you are particularly keen on? And as always, if you’d like to see full reviews of any of the products, do let me know..

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PRODUCT REVIEW: MAYBELLINE NEW YORK COLOR SHOW BLEACHED NEON NAIL COLLECTION

Today I’d like to introduce you to new nail polish collection, the Maybelline New York Color Show Bleached Neon Nail Collection*; 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What They Say:

 

The chip free formula with high-tech polymers helps enhance wear and usage. The easy to use brush makes application a breeze and leaves your nails in tip top shape! Formaldehyde, DBP and Toluene free.

 

RRP: $5.95 (7ml) – Available from Priceline, supermarkets, variety stores and select supermarkets from October to December 2014 only

 

 

 

What I Say:

 

This new Bleached Neon Nail Collection combines neon pigments in an opaque formula that dilutes the colour to gorgeous pastel shades. And timing couldn’t be any better. With the spring sun already kissing our cheeks, and shops promoting lighter clothes in spring colours, these polishes fit the season perfectly.

 

 

I remember when neons were last a hit – sometime in the 80s, and at the stage I wore it. A lot. Everything from tops, pants, to lipsticks. You name it, I wore. These days I am a little more conservative, so I am pleased that these nail polishes offer more subtle neons. They are bright, yet pastel at the same time, if that makes sense. So much more wearable than bright neons. And such a refreshing change from the usual standard pastel shades. 

 

 

I know that in Europe a larger range of colours were launched, but unfortunately here in Australia, we were limited to four shades;

 

• Sun Flare – a Pastel Peachy-Orange
• Coral Heat – a Pastel Coral Pink
• Tropink – Pastel Pink
• Chic Chartreuse – A Pastel Lime

 

 

L-R: Sunflare, Coral Heat, Tropink and Chic Chartreuse

 

 

 

I love all the colours, but have to say that the Coral Heat and Chic Chartreuse would be my two favourites.

 

 

The polishes have a creamy finish with a nice glossiness without any sparkle or shimmer which I really like. The first coat is quite sheer, and you think you’ll have to apply countless coats for a solid finish, but already after the second coat you have a nice colour.

 

 

 

L-R: Sunflare, Coral Heat, Tropink and Chic Chartreuse

 

  

 

The polish is easy to apply evenly and streak free, and it dries quickly. With a topcoat I manage to get about 3+ wear from the polish, which personally I think is OK – also because I wash my hands a lot, with two large dogs living inside, and countless nappy changes on my little boy during the day, plus not forgetting his bath every night! But I think you can easily extend the wear by using a base coat first, and by re-applying a top coat on day two!

 

  

I also think that the wear is reasonable considering the polishes are so affordable. If you are keen on getting your hands on some of these Bleached Neon Shades, you better hurry up as the colours are limited edition.

 

 *Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.  

 

 

What do you think of this new Bleached Neon Nail Collection from Maybelline? Keen on trying? What do you think of Neons?

 

  

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PRODUCT REVIEW: THREE OF A KIND - CONCEALERS

I wish I didn’t need to use a concealer, but sadly my skin is sadly less than perfect and I have heaps of scars, pigmentation and marks that I feel better when covered up, so for me a concealer is a staple in my beauty bag, so today I thought that I’d share my thought on Three of a Kind, Concealers;

 L’Oreal Paris Infallible Longwear Concealer*


 

This stick concealer is so easy to use. Just pop the lid, twist and swipe before you blend with your fingers. It has a great coverage and a powdery feel that blends easily quickly covering redness, pigmentation and bags under the eyes, and if needed the coverage can be built up with another coat, and still with a barely there look.

It stays put on the skin all day long, even on my combination skin, and as it is waterproof, it even survives a dash out in the rain.

RRP: $19.45 – Available from Department Stores, Priceline and select pharmacies



Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Concealer SPF 10

 
This Double Wear Concealer from Estee Lauder really does live up to its name and stays put all day without fading or settling into lines and wrinkles, even on a hot summers day! The cream formula comes in a lipgloss style tube with a foot doe applicator that makes it so easy to apply and blend, also thanks to containing minerals and emollients to help condition the skin so it never looks dry or flaky.

And if needed you can easily build up the coverage too. And it easily covers any redness, pigmentation or dark circles, all while looking seamless and flawless and never caked on. It is extremely concentrated so it will last you forever, and I love that it comes with SPF10 too!

RRP: $33 – Available from Estee Lauder


Napoleon Perdis The One Concealer*

Unlike the other concealers, The One Concealer from Napoleon Perdis comes in a little cute pot, and consequently you need to use a concealer brush to apply it with – you can’t really use your fingers as the opening of the jar is rather small and it would mean that you’d get product stuck under your nails. The actual concealer is cream based, and is a little thick, but if you put a little on the back of your hand and warming it sightly with your fingers before applying it, it applies to easily and blends quickly and evenly.

It and it helps even out even the worst pigmentation, redness or blemish, and dark circles under the eyes, and stays put all day without fading or settling into fine lines. And the shade is so cleverly designed that it syncs with almost all skin tones.

RRP: $39 (5.2g) – Available from Myer, David Jones, The FacialCo and Adore Beauty and Napoleon Perdis Online

*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

So there you have it, three different concealers.

Have you tried any of these? Which concealer do you reach for when you have an unsightly blemish or pigmentation to hide?



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XMAS GIFT IDEAS - NAPOLEON PERDIS ONE-HIT-WONDER COLLECTION

The next Xmas gift idea that I thought was well worth a mention is this stunning One-Hit-Wonder Collection from Napoleon Perdis. As Napoleon Perdis puts it himself: “Your glam night out, in one hit!.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

This stunning gift set comes contains;

 

• Matte Eye Ink
• Bronze and Blush Duo
• Mini Kabuki Brush

 

And it comes presented in the cutest red hard cosmetic case which is adorned with gold stars, which I really like, as I know it will keep my precious makeup even more protected than a soft cosmetic bag.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Matte Eye Ink is one of Napoleon Perdis absolute bestsellers, and with one stroke it leaves a solid black line that dries to a lovely matte finish. It is water-based so it is very gentle, yet it simply doesn’t budge all day, even on a humid day as well as it didn’t fade during my recent long-haul flight to Europe, which I personally think is pretty darn impressive. It has a very fine felt tip that makes it super easy to draw the finest of lines to define the eyes or you can easily build up the intensity for a more dramatic look.

 

 

 

 

 

The Bronze and Blush Duo is stunning medium bronzer that is the perfect match for my medium beige skin tone, it simply gives my pale cheeks a lovely warmth, without that usual orange look often associated with bronzers. And unlike many others, it is matte, which is perfect for combination and oily skin types, not wanting to look even greasier with too much glittery bronzer. It has a tiny strip of pale pink blush at the bottom of the compact, which is just enough to give you cheeks a just-pinched look, while of course the bronzer part can also be used to contour the cheeks.

 

 

 

 

 

Finally it comes with the cutest mini Kabuki Brush, which is so soft and so small and compact, but makes applying the Bronzer and Blush Duo a breeze, and the tiny size makes it the perfect travel companion for any touch-ups on the go.

 

 

This gift set has a combined value of $120, but right now you can get it for just $55, which is an absolute bargain. It is available from Myer, David Jones and selected Pharmacies, and from Napoleon Perdis Online

 

*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy. 

 

 

What do you think of gift set from Napoleon Perdis? Tried any of his makeup? Any recommendations?

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PRODUCT REVIEW: ASPECT EXFOL L15

I have always suffered with skin prone to breakouts, so when I was offered to trial a product that helps with a clearer skin with fewer visible imperfections, I happily accepted. Here are my thoughts on the Aspect Exfol L15*;

What They Say:

Superior skin resurfacing without the trauma! Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA's) are without question one of dermatology's greatest success stories. AHAs work their magic by accelerating the skin's natural cell renewal cycle, invisibly lifting away the excess accumulation of dull, devitalised surface skin cells, revealing a smoother, clearer, brighter, healthier-looking surface layer, with more refined-looking pores, and fewer visible imperfections.


RRP: $87.40 (30ml) – Available from Select Stockists, or call 1800 648 851 to enquire
What I Say:


I have been using this serum every night for several weeks now, and I have to say that I am impressed. My skin has just gone through a hormonal phase with lots of breakouts, and this serum is so gentle. It contains AHA including lactic acid that overnight help gently peel away dead skin cells, and unclog and refine the pores and leaving the skin less greasy and consequently less prone to breakouts, and at the same time it helps makes the skin look and feel smoother and more even toned. So I have not only noticed that I have less breakouts, but those I have had while using the serum, have vanished a lot faster. And as if that isn’t enough, but at the same time I have also noticed that both old acne scars and some fine lines look softer in appearance and pigmentation have visible reduced in size too, - and each morning when I wake, I feel my skin is more and more even and glowing.


You might think that all this would mean that the Exfol L 15 is terribly harsh on the skin, but that is not so, in fact it is very gentle and in spite of daily use, it has not left my skin red, irritated or sensitive.


I love the products from Aspect are so natural, containing no harsh chemicals including no parabens, SLS, petrochemicals, propylene glycol and artificial colours and fragrances.

The serum comes in a funky silver pump bottle with a twist top that reveals the pump, and the serum is quite thin so it only takes a little a lot to spread it over the face. At 87.40 for a 30ml bottle it is not exactly cheap, but on the other hand, as it is so concentrated there is sufficient in the bottle for nightly use for at least 2-3 months, and considering you cannot even get a facial at a salon under $100 these days, I actually find this serum to be amazing value – it is like a facial in a bottle, giving not only clearer and more even skin day by day, but also soft skin with a nice glow, as if you’ve just stepped out of a salon, when you wake every morning.

For a once a product that lives up to its promises, a product that is targeting fine lines, blemishes, pigmentation and dull skin, all at the same time. What’s not to love. I will definitely be purchasing this one again.

*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


What do you think of this Aspect L 15? Ever tried any of the products from Aspect?

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XMAS GIFT IDEA - URBAN RITUELLE MANDARIN, BASIL & LIME EQUILIBRIUM GIFT SET

Do you know that Xmas is less than 6 weeks away? Have you started thinking about presents yet? I have to admit that I have, well actually, the majority of mine are already done and dusted, as I either purchased them prior to, or during my recent trip to Europe and left them there, so that’s that side of the family done. So just have to get something sorted for my darling husband (and I seriously never know what to get for him), and of course something for our precious little boy. And somehow I think he will be a little extra spoilt this year. It is only his second Xmas, and last Xmas eve (being European we celebrate Xmas on Xmas eve), we ended up spending the night with him at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, so it wasn’t much of a first Xmas for him!

Anyway, with time ticking away, I thought that I’d start to share some Xmas Gift Ideas that I’d personally would be ecstatic about receiving. 

First off the rank is this beautiful Urban Rituelle Mandarin, Basil & Lime Equilibrium Gift Set.


This Urban Rituelle gift set contains two huge 500ml bottles, one with Hand & Body Wash and the second one with Hand & Body Lotion.

As the name suggests, the products are loaded with mandarin, basil and lime essential oils, as well as cucumber extract has been added to calm and revitalise the skin, and chamomile extract to soothe the shin, while the argan oil helps to deeply nourish the skin restoring the moisture balance. Finally, the products also include macadamia oil that heals and softens the skin, and rosehip oil that is rich in vitamins E and A to help the skins natural renewal process. And very importantly, the products do not contain any artificial colours, fragrances as well as they are free from sulphates and parabens. And of course the products are Australian owned and made, and not tested on animals either. Doesn’t get much better than this.


And let me tell you, these products smell absolutely divine, a scent that is both fruity due to the mandarin and lime, yet also slightly spicy because of the basil – so the products are not too girly, but perfect for the whole family. And personally I absolutely adore this scent. My favourite scent has always been zesty citrus, but these products have such a lovely twist, whilst still letting the mandarin and lime shine through. True Love!!

The soap cleanses the hands and body gently with a soft foam, and all without drying the skin out. And afterwards the skin is left with the most gorgeous scent that lingers for quite a while, and if you use it in the shower as a shower gel, your whole bathroom smells heavenly too.


If you follow with the Hand & Body Lotion, you not only get super soft skin from the light lotion that absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving it feeling greasy or tacky, but the beautiful scent also intensifies the scent so it stays on the skin even longer.

The products come in beautiful very dark brown pump bottles with understated, yet very elegant black labels with bronze and cream writing – they will simply look spectacular in any bathroom. 


RRP: $55 – Available from Urban Rituelle

*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.


Have started your Xmas shopping? What do you think of this gift set from Urban Rituelle? What’s on your wish list this Xmas?

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PRODUCT REVIEW: ESTEE LAUDER PERFECTIONIST YOUTH-INFUSING MAKEUP SPF25

As you may recall, I am a huge Estee Lauder fan. I simply haven’t tried a single one of their products that I haven’t loved, so when I was asked to trial the new Estee Lauder Perfectionist Youth-Infusing Makeup SPF 25*, I naturally excitedly accepted. Here are my thoughts;

 

What They Say:

Estee Lauder Perfectionist Youth Infusing Makeup SPF 25 is a foundation infused with Estee Lauder’s youth-enhancing Perfectionist [CP+R] Serum which helps to repair the look of lines and wrinkles providing coverage of imperfections, for a more radiant complexion. The foundation has been formulated with amino acids which help to smooth the skin, while restructuring peptides help plump the look of lines and wrinkles by promoting skin's natural production of collagen and elastin. Skin is further protected from sun damage with an SPF 25. It also contains perfecting priming beads which fills in lines and blurs imperfections. Available in 16 shades.

RRP: $68 (30ml) – Available from Estee Lauder 

What I Say:

I am (sadly) at the age where anti-ageing products are a necessity, so I instantly fell in love with the idea that this new Perfectionist foundation is infused with one of Estee Lauders best-selling serums, the youth-enhancing enhancing Perfectionist [CP+R] Serum. This serum helps to smooth the skin and help plump lines and wrinkles, so the longer and the more you wear the foundation, the more it will benefit your skin.

Thanks to uneven skin tone and pigmentation as well as scars from past acne, I generally prefer to use medium to full coverage foundation when I am going out, although I still use a lighter coverage such as a tinted moisturiser or a BB/CC cream on more casual outings. The Perfectionist foundation offers a light coverage, although still slightly more than the Estee Lauder BB Cream, and it gives the skin an almost ‘no makeup look’ - but the good thing is that you can build it up to a medium coverage if required, although I still feel I need my trusted Estee Lauder Double Wear Concealer to cover darker spots and bags under my eyes. And even when you build up the coverage, it still looks very natural and doesn’t become cakey.

The foundation comes in a convenient pump bottle which I really like, and it spreads easily and blends perfectly (guess hence the name perfectionist!!) into the skin. I have tried doing it both with my fingers as well as with a foundation brush, and either works equally well, even though of course you get a more flawless result when using a brush.

And I love the semi-matte dewy look that this foundation gives your skin, perfect for combination skin. My skin has a nice radiant youthful look, and it generally stays put most of the day with the use of a primer first, and that is without changing colour or settling into those fine lines. However, I do wonder how it will perform come the warmer and more humid summer days, but then again, most foundations start to look shiny past lunch on my face in the heat of summer, so I am used to having to do afternoon touch-ups anyway!

I also love that this foundation contains oil-free hydration, so my skin is nourished without clogging it up or making it break out, and of course that it contains SPF25 so I know my skin is protected from the sun’s harsh rays.

 

But has the foundation improved my skin over time? I have now been using it for almost two months, and I have to admit that I am yet to see any reduction in the depth or number of lines and wrinkles on my face, but in saying that, I also haven’t been using the foundation for a full day every single day, but rather just a few hours here and there.

In saying that, I still find that it is great that it contains the anti-ageing ingredients, it certainly doesn’t hurt. So overall I really like this foundation as it is makeup with built in skincare, and it evens out my complexion and makes my skin look very radiant, glowing and natural as I wear it. I wouldn’t recommend it if you are after a foundation to cover dark spots or blemishes, but if you have good skin or is simply looking for a natural light coverage, then you simply can’t past the new Perfectionist Foundation.

*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
 

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OPI LAUNCHES THE COCA COLA COLLECTION

Who doesn’t love Coca Cola. And add to that it is one of the most recognised brands around the world, and therefore OPI has partnered with Coca Cola to create a limied edition of colours.

The collection includes shades that represent evertyhing from classic red for Coca Cola, metallic silver for Diet Coke, dark red and black for Coke Zero, black cherry for Cherry Coke, cream and warm pink for Vanilla Coke, shimmering citrus green for Sprite and glitter-packed orange for Fanta Orange and deep purple for Fanta Grape.

 

 I think I personally really love the Coca Cola Red Shade the best, as it is simply such a classic, but there is no denying that the whole collection is absolutely stunning.

L-R: Sorry I'm Fizzy Today, Coca-Cola Red, Orange You Stylish!

L-R: Sorry I'm Fizzy Today, Coca-Cola Red, Orange You Stylish!

 

RRP: $19.95 – Available from Myer and David Jones


*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

Are you a Coca Cola fan? Which shade do you prefer?
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BEST BUDGET BEAUTY BUYS - OCTOBER 2014

It has been a little while since I’ve done one of my Best Budget Beauty Buys posts, and I actually planned to do this feature monthly, and well now we already half way into the next month.... ups! Anyway, slight late, I thought it was about time to share some amazing products that I came across last month, that won’t send you broke...

anatomicals the seven deadly skins melon body scrub*

Love anatomicals. Their bright packaging and quirky texts on the bottles is such a refreshing change, and of course, then there’s the amazing scents.

And this melon body scrub doesn’t fail to impress either. It simply smells so fresh and divine. The scrub gently scrubs away any dead skin cells, leaving your skin soft, smooth and glowing, and leaving your bathroom smelling like a fruit orchard meanwhile. And as anatomicals puts it “If you're dissatisfied we'll eat our 100 hats. Sorry for our gluttony.”

RRP: $8.99 (200ml) – Available from Target and Priceline



Herbal Essences Naked Shampoo & Conditioner*

In a time where silicones, parabens and dyes are a big no-no, this shampoo and conditioner from Herbal Essences is a great choice. The shampoo contains white tea and mint extracts and leaves your hair clean without drying it out, and with a naturally silky shine, while the conditioner a stimulating herbal and mint infusion for hydrated and nourished, smooth hair that is light and not weighted down. The products are great for everyday use as they simply leaves your hair feeling and looking shiny and healthy, and with a gorgeous fresh fruity scent.
RRP: $6.99 each (300ml) – Available from Supermarkets and Priceline



Clear Scalp & Hair Beauty Therapy Damage and Colour Repair*

When my hair and scalp need some extra TLC, a good pick is this Scalp & Hair Beauty Therapy Damage & Colour Repair Treatment Mask from Clear. It contains a rich blend of vitamins and nutrients that work to nourish the scalp and hair, leaving it look healthy and shiny and without being weighted down or feeling greasy.

And the best thing is that it is super quick to use, working in just three minutes. It comes in a cute lavender coloured tub and has a nice floral scent – and if using this every couple of days will give me glossy and healthy locks like some Miranda Kerr, than I’m all for it.

RRP: $9.99 - Available from Priceline, Supermarkets and select pharmacies



TRESemme Platinum Strength Leave-In Treatment*

This leave-in treatment claims to “visibly repairs up to 2 years of damage in just 5 uses”, and while am not so sure I can see that in my hair, the treatment instantly helps make my hair softer and more manageable. It leaves a protective layer on each hair, locking in moisture and protecting it from future damage, and consequently my otherwise dry ends look and feel so much healthier. And all without making it feel greasy or weighed down. It has a gentle floral scent that quickly fades once it has absorbed into the hair, and it comes in a convenient pump bottle.
RRP: $10.99 (125ml) – Available from Supermarkets, Priceline and select Pharmacies



essano Gentle Foaming Facial Cleanser*

Even though I have combination skin prone to breakouts, it is important to use a gentle cleanser this Rosehip by essano Gentle Foaming Facial Cleanser is perfect, easily removing all my makeup, although I do need an eye makeup remover to help with the waterproof mascara. I love that it is free from all chemical nasties including parabens, sulphates, phthalates, colours or petrochemicals, and it is also soap free to cleanse the face without drying out the skin or causing any irritations. It also contains active natural botanicals and certified organic rosehip oil that helps replenish the skin’s moisture barrier, repair the skin and help promote firmness.
RRP: $19.99 (140ml) – Available from Priceline and selected Woolworths


Quick Fix Facials Mask Exfoliating Scrub*

This is not just a exfoliating scrub, it is a multi-tasking mask, designed to both exfoliate the skin to help remove dead skin cells, while it also contains clay designed to draw out excess oil and impurities from the skin as well as it also contains pomegranate, goji berry, vitamin E and pink rose clay to renew and revive the skin.

You simply put a thin layer onto your skin, and leave for about 10 minutes to dry and absorb all the excess sebum, and then I like to dampen my hands gently massage and exfoliate my face, before rinsing it off with lukewarm water. The mask is quite concentrated and the exfoliating beads are a little coarse, so this is not a mask to use on a daily basis, but for a weekly deep treatment it works a treat.

RRP: $8.95 (100ml) – Available from Woolworths



Dove Invisible Dry Anti-Perspirant Deodorant*

Don’t you just hate it when your deodorant leaves white marks on your clothes. It looks so horrible too, when you pull a top over your head and end up with the white marks on the outside of the top. The good news is that the new Dove Invisible Dry Anti White Marks Roll-on really keeps its promise and doesn’t leave these dreaded white marks. And add to that, it is free from alcohol and contains a quarter moisturising cream, so it keeps your underarms soft and hydrated, all while offering you anti-perspirant protection all day. And it has a gentle scent that won’t clash with your perfume either.

RRP: $5.47 (100g) – Available from Supermarkets, Priceline, variety stores and pharmacies



People for Plants Eye Cream*

When I am in a hurry, I admit to skipping using certain products, but one thing I never ever forget, it an eye cream. I simply couldn’t live without it. My eyes are very sensitive, and easily water, so I love that this eye cream from People for Plants is fragrance-free eye, and I love too that it is made in Australia using no parabens, sulphates, synthetic fragrances, petrochemicals, silicones or phthalates – but rather it has been made using 91.4% certified organic ingredients. It contains Kakadu plum, calendula, and chamomile to brighten and revitalise the eye area, while hyaluronic acid locks in moisture and aloe vera hydrates the eye area. It comes in a small tube with a nozzle, making it easy to use without contamination, and it thick and creamy, although it absorbs quickly into the skin without leaving it feeling greasy. And while I don’t think it has done much to the bags under my eyes, I love that it is so gentle and has a cooling effect, and that it works so perfectly under makeup too.

RRP: $19.95 (15ml) – Available from Priceline, David Jones and Select Pharmacies



Olay Fresh Effects Va-Va-Vivid Powered Contour Cleansing System*

I have to admit to owning a couple of the more expensive electrical cleansing brushes, but when I am going away, they are just to big and bulky, and that’s where I love this the Fresh Effects Va-Va-Vivid Powered Contour Cleansing System from Olay. Long term it naturally doesn’t offer the same results, or longevity for that matter, but for the low price, it is worth it, also if you don’t want to or cannot afford to splurge on an expensive brush.

The soft plastic bristles vibrate to help deep cleanse your skin, getting rid of any dirt, excess oil and sebum and makeup that’s clogging up your pores. Used with either the included Olay Shine, ShineGo Away Cleanser, it quickly leaves your skin feeling clean deep down every single pore, leaving it soft, glowing and healthy looking.
RRP: $16.99 – Available from Priceline and select pharmacies*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

So there you go, a selection of great budget beauty buys that will cost you less than $20!

Tried any of these? Keen to? What’s your go to budget buys?

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