PRODUCT REVIEW: VIOLET BOX APRIL 2015

On their Facebook page Violet Box had earlier this month made a sneak peak of a product that was to make it into the April box, but delivery issues, meant it didn’t make it, and instead of delaying the box, Violet Box put together another box, which you can only applaud them, as they have been troubled with a lot of delays the last few months, which I think is starting to really bug the regular subscribers. Anyway, the box arrived yesterday, so whilst it is still a touch delayed, it still made it before the end of April! Anyway, here are my thoughts on this month’s box; 

What They Say:

Violet Box brands promises to every month include 4-6 premium beauty and lifestyle samples from well-known and trusted Australian beauty brands as well as exciting new International brands, one in particular is a revolutionary product currently trending in New York and has been featured in Vogue and on the Today Show! 

RRP: You can subscribe to Violet Box for:

1 month – $22.95
3 months - $66.00
6 months - $130
12 months - $250
- Available from Violet Box


What I Say:
As per usual this month the Violet Box comes in the typical slide-out box, with the grey and white swirly design that has been previously used. These were the goodies inside the box…

Lonvitalite C2 Collagen Protein Wrinkle Removing Mask – Full Size/one Mask (RRP: 9.95)

Like most others I love the cloth masks from Lonvitalite. They are easy to use and quite effective, and this particular mask that promises to accelerate skin metabolism and reinforce skin growth to smooth out fine lines, is a perfect match for my skin. However, it seems that lately Lonvitalite has been popping up in beauty boxes everywhere, so while the products are very lovely (to the point I’m already regularly purchasing them), I am sorry to say that they are just not that exciting to be receiving in the monthly box anymore!



Tini Beauty Eye Shadow by Rob Scheppy – Full Size (RRP: $16/1.6g)

 I don’t remember ever having heard of this brand before, so that in itself excites me, as I love trialling out new brands. The eye shadow has a lovely neutral beige shade that is perfect to use as a base colour, or as a nude eye shadow on its own if you like. I love the colour as it is the sort of shade that I usually use daily, so I cannot wait to put it to the test.


Evelyn Iona Natural and Organic Concealer in Flawless – Sample (RRP $24.99)

This is another brand that I do not recall seeing before, and if so, it hasn’t been recently. The little jar with the concealer contains Vitamin E, Cocoa Seed Butter and organic coconut, jojoba and castor seed oil to care for the skin, whilst covering up your imperfections. Sounds pretty good to me, and the included shade, Flawless, looks like it is a fairly good match to my skin tone too. A quick test on my hand and I do find that it doesn’t seem to have a lot of coverage and it applies shiny too, which I don’t find ideal for a concealer – but regardless, I look forward to testing it and seeing how it performs.


Urban Skincare Co Daily Hand and Body Cleanser – Sample Size, 35ml (RRP $26.95/500ml)

Another repeat brand! However in saying that, I’ve loved the previous products from the Urban Skincare Co that I’ve tried, and this Hand and Body Cleanser is sure to be a hit too. It soap has a lovely scent of sweet orange that you can only love, and it promises to gently cleanse the skin without stripping it of its essential oils. I’ll be packing my hospital bag soon for the arrival of our little baby next month, and this will be going straight in to be used as a hand soap whilst in hospital, as there is simply nothing worse, and drying on the hands than the cheap blocks of soap the hospitals provide you with. 


Lipsi Cosmetics Aphrodite Powder – Sample Size, 4ml (RRP $38/21g)

Another brand that is new to me, YAY. This is a finishing powder that is designed to absorb excess oil on the skin, which is perfect when you’ve got combination skin like me. However, this sample size is absolutely tiny, so tiny that you probably won’t even be able to make it work with your powder brush, unless you tip more or less the whole contents into your hand before use! Still, I do look forward to trying it.


Transformulas Eye Lifting Gel and FaceContour & Tightening Crème – Sachet Samples (RRP $49 and $59)

Sorry to say this, but sachet samples just do not excite me, and that is regardless of what type of product is inside. I expect to find sachet samples attached inside my monthly women’s magazines, but not in a beauty subscription box, where I have to say I’ve come to expect a little more. In saying that, ‘beauty without surgery’ does sound good, so let’s just hope that this Eye Gel and Face Contour cream can deliver just that, though any effects will be pretty hard to see after just one or two goes!


So there you go, the April Edition of the Violet Box. It contains two full sized products, one larger sample, two smaller samples and two sachet samples. In general I do look forward to trying out all of the products, and there are none of them, that are not suited to my skin type or colour, so in that respect I certainly cannot complain. But unfortunately just don’t feel this box is as good as previous boxes from Violet Box, it is by no means a poor box, but the lack of full sized products unfortunately is a little disappointing.

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

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JOIN THE STAR WARS REBELLION AT MYER

Hands up who’s a Star Wars fan… I thought so, who isn’t! Well, if you are a Star Wars Fan, or your kids are, or maybe you’re simply looking for a great and FREE activity for the kids this weekend at Myer Melbourne, which is held to coincide with the International Star Wars Day ‘May the Force Be With You Day’ which occurs every year on May the 4th.

At the Event Young Jedi enthusiasts can learn to master the force with a free Star Wars Rebels training session and watch and learn some Jedi moves in their first ever defence lesson and use the force to fight the Empire. Once trained, all participants will graduate with a personalised Star Wars Rebel ID card, collector poster, and even get the chance to personalise their own Stormtrooper helmet like Sabine from Star Wars Rebels.


When: The Star Wars Rebellion Event is on this weekend, Saturday 2 May and Sunday 3 May, from 11am


Where: Myer Melbourne City Store, My Kids Emporium department, level 4 on the Emporium Shopping Centre (above the Emporium food court)This is simply too good an opportunity to miss, and your kids will have heaps of fun and afterwards they will be so excited (and exhausted too), that you will have plenty of time to check out Myer’s amazing and humongous shoe and beauty departments – WIN-WIN!


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PRODUCT REVIEW: OPI HAWAII COLLECTION

OPI is known for launching regular mini collections, and have recently launched the OPI Hawaii Collection. Here are my thoughts;

 

 

 

 

 

What They Say:

 

Hawaii Collection by OPI brings the fresh, bright colours of its namesake island to nails and toes for Spring/Summer 2015. This new collection features a palette ranging from muted tones of mint, peach, pink and nude to bolder hues of coral, green, purple and gold to deep tones of mauve, violet, brick red and shimmery blue.

 

RRP: $19.95 each for a full size bottle, or $24.95 for the mini pack with 4 mini nail polishes – Available from Myer, David Jones and Selected Salons

 

 

What I Say:

 

Compared to previous mini collections this Hawaii Collection, which has been launched to coincide with the European Spring and Summer 2015 is rather large, featuring 12 new shades. The range features both muted tones and more bold shades, all taking inspiration from the sand and surf in Hawaii.

 

 

I have been trying out the mini kit, which includes the shades;

 

 

 

 

 

• Suzi Shops & Island Hops – ‘A light and happy pink that’s the perfect travelling companion’
• That’s Hula-Rious! – ‘Stock Up! This pastel mint green makes me dance with joy!’
• Lost My Bikini in Molokini – ‘With this reef-inspired purple, what’s one bikini more or less?’
• Aloha from OPI – ‘Let’s give a warm island hello to this bright creamy coral!’

 

Of these four shades my favourites would have to be Suzi Shops & Island Hops, which I can see myself using up in no time as it is such a classic, as well as the Aloha from OPI, which is a lovely coral shade.

 

 

I really like the mini bottles as for just $5 you get to try out several shades and not just one shade, and you still have enough polish to do several manicures, and also try out the shade. I also rarely find that use up a shade before it goes off, so that’s another reason why the mini bottles are brilliant. I just wish the full OPI range was also available for purchase a mini bottles!

  

Of the full collection, I do love the look of the olive colour ‘My Gecko does Tricks’ , the warm burnt orange ‘Go with the Lava Flow’ and the navy blue ‘The Colour’s Making Waves’ – and I will certainly be checking them out at the shops.

  

As always, the 3-free polishes are easy to apply, and has a good wear of 4-5 days with the use of a top coat.

 

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

 

 

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PRODUCT REVIEW: REMMINGTON FLAWLESS NAILS MANICURE & PEDICURE KIT

I can’t deny it, my nails have seen better days. I mean, being pregnant, my nails are actually healthier, thicker and stronger, and grow faster than ever before, but that’s also where it stops. With a toddler I find I have limited time to my beauty routines, and admit that it is nails (and feet) that I always leave for last, and hence are the most in need of some TLC. So when I was asked to trial the Remington Flawless Nails Manicure & Pedicure Kit, I happily accepted, here are my thoughts;

What They Say:

Bringing the convenience of salon technology into the home, the Remington Flawless Nails Manicure & Pedicure Kit includes all the essentials mum will need to achieve perfectly primped and preened fingers and toes – without having to leave her house. The kit contains ten interchangeable attachments for filing, buffing, cleaning, shaping and callus removal – plus a high speed-drying fan to ensure her finish is salon perfect every time.

RRP: $49.95 – Available from Leading Electrical Retailers


What I Say:

This Flawless Nails Manicure & Pedicure Kit literally contains everything that you need to give yourself a professional manicure from the comfort of your own home.

The kit comes with all the necessary interchangeable attachments – 14 in total to be exact – to be able to file, buff, clean and shape your nails or remove calluses. The attachments also include three coarse disks with different textures as well as two polishing discs, a mini cleaning brush, precision shaping cone and a cylinder, as well as a manual cuticle push stick, and not to mention a high speed fan for drying nail polish.

In short, this manicure and pedicure kit really does include absolutely everything you would need for the perfect manicure, whether it is for natural or acrylic nails. It is so easy to operate and got two different speeds suit your preference.

Before first use you simply have to charge it, 16 hours for a full charge, and hereafter you’ve got 2.5 hours of cordless use time, so enough for several manicures.

I absolutely love this manicure and pedicure kit, it is absolutely brilliant, and has helped make my nails and cuticles look decent again in next to no time. I love that it is so thought out that it contains every attachment imaginable, although I have to be honest and admit that I still haven’t used all of them.

As the icing on the cake, I also love the high speed nail drying fan, as I am not very patient when it comes to waiting for my nail polish to dry - and as a result I usually end of scuffing it before its completely dry – so for me, this fan is a very welcome part of the kit!

Considering all the attachments that are included in this Manicure and Pedicure Kit, I am surprised that it sells for the bargain price of $49.95. I mean, you can easily spend close to $10 for just one nail file, and not to mention the cost just one in-salon manicure or pedicure – but with this kit, you can do it at home when it suits you, over and over again. Absolutely brilliant!

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

 What do you think of this Manicure & Pedicure Kit? Do you DIY your own nails at home, or do you go to a salon?



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MOTHER'S DAY GIFT IDEAS FROM LUSH

Next in line of Gift Ideas for Mother’s Day is a selection of products from Lush;

 Yummy Mummy Body Conditioner

This body conditioner is intended to be used in the shower after using shower gel. You simply smooth it over your body, and then rinse off, and afterwards you are left with the softest smoothest skin. The Body Conditioner contains blended fresh strawberry juice with murumuru and Fair Trade Organic cocoa butter to leave the skin deeply nourished. Personally I find it has a slightly odd scent, and I’d like it to smell a little more of strawberries, however, the results are well worth it, and it’s the perfect product when you are in a hurry, as it saves you having to apply body lotion once out of the shower.

RRP: $32.50 (250ml) – Available from Lush


Mother Superior Bubble Bar

This bubble bar is has been designed with the cutest little face that is so hard not to smile at. The body bar has been scented with Cherry Blossoms and smells divine. You simply crumble the body bar under the running water, and you are left with lots of beautifully scented bubbles, that will not only gently cleanse your skin, but leave it feeling soft and smooth too!

RRP: $9.95 (180g) – Available from Lush


Rose Bombshell Bath Bomb

This bath bomb is shaped like a round ball, and is full of rose petals, as well as it contains orange flower absolute, rosewood and Turkish rose oils and soya milk powder, and consequently smells like, well roses. The scent any mother will love! And the soya milk means that the bath will not only be a beautiful scented experience, it will also pamper the skin, leaving it incredibly soft and smooth.

RRP: $6.25 (165g) – Available from Lush



Yummy Mummy Shower Gel

This Yummy Mummy Shower Gel has got a lovely lilac colour that makes me think of a paint pot!!! The shower gel, which can actually also be used as a shampoo has been scented with lilac and orange oil, which gives it a very sweet smelling scent. It also contains seaweed to leave the skin extra soft, and also contains tiny shimmer particles that give your skin (and hair!) and nice radiant glow

RRP: $9.95 (100g) – Available from Lush


Love You Mum Soap

The soap bar is designed as a red flower and it is scented beautifully with mimosa, jasmine absolutes and bergamot oil, so it not only smells absolutely divine with its floral scent, it looks absolutely gorgeous too, almost too pretty to use!
Note that this floral shape is a special PR sample, and that the Love You Mummy Soap soap you can purchase instore and online has a full floral pattern, whilst still being the same soap!

RRP: $6.95 (100g) – Available from Lush

So there you go, a selection of beautifully scented pampering products from Lush that any Mum will love and adore. My personal picks of the bunch would have to be the Mother Superior Bubble Bar, The Rose Bath Bomb and the Love You Mum Soap, simply because I prefer the scents of these products!!

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

Do you use Lush products? Any recommendations?

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MOTHER'S DAY GIFT IDEA: URBAN RITUELLE TEA CEREMONY GIFT SET IN GREEN TEA AND CITRUS TWIST

Next in line of amazing gift ideas for Mother’s Day is this beautiful Tea Ceremony Gift Set in Green Tea & Citrus Twist from Urban Rituelle;

The Tea Ceremony Gift Set has been inspired by the love of fine tea. It includes a Bath & Shower Gel as well as Body Lotion, which comes beautifully presented in a high quality cosmetic bag with a beautiful beige and white pattern.

The Bath & Shower Gel is been enriched with skin-calming ingredients, as well as Ginseng to revitalise and nourish, Gingko Biloba for skin renewal , chamomile to condition the skin, as well as calendula and witch hazel to repair, soothe and soften the skin. The gel lathers easily up into a soft lather that gently cleanses your skin while leaving it soft, clean and smelling beautifully.

The Body Lotion contains nourishing extracts as well as skin conditioning chamomile and grape seed oil as well as vitamin-rich ginseng to rejuvenate and revitalise. It also contains shea butter and macadamia oil to provide the skin with intense moisture, while calendula and aloe vera renew and restore the skin. The Body Lotion is very light and non-greasy in consistency, and absorbs quickly into the skin, yet you can instantly feel how moisturising it is on the skin, leaving it soft and smooth, and intensifying the beautiful scent left behind by the Bath & Shower Gel.

Both products have been scented with a blend of blooms & aromatic infusions and botanicals, which includes green tea, cucumber and lemongrass, giving it the most gorgeous gentle and fresh scent.

The gift set is also available in three other scents, which include White Peony & Rosebuds, Turkish Rose & Vanilla and Hibiscus & Cranberry, so there is really something for everyone.

I absolutely love this gift set, it makes showering such a beautiful experience, not least because my skin smells so gorgeous for hours afterwards. Both products come in easy to use pump bottles that also look so beautiful in the bathroom, thanks to the olive green labelling. At $49.95, this is fantastic value, also thanks to the beautiful and very useful lined toilet bag that the products come in.

The Tea Ceremony Gift Set has an RRP of $49.95 and is available from Urban Rituelle Online, and from Select Retailers         
*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

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PRODUCT REVIEW: MAMA BODY TEA

Today I’d like to put focus on a selection of organic teas, which has been developed to assist pregnant women, and those with new babies, there are teas to help target morning sickness, digestive issues, pelvic support for birth, breastfeeding and assisting upset babies. I have always been a big coffee drinker, but being pregnant, I have completely cut out coffee, and instead reaching for various teas, so I was excited with the opportunity to trial these special Pregnancy teas. Here are my thoughts on the Digestive Tea and the Raspberry Leaf Tea from Mama Body Tea;

How cute is my little Flower Pot Tea Infuser..

What They Say:

Digestive Tea: Bloating? Indigestion? Discomfort? These are typical pregnancy complaints… Ease uninvited digestive discomfort and find relief with mama’s aromatic Digestion Tea goodness.

Raspberry Leaf Tea: We recommend drinking Mamas specially formulated Raspberry Leaf blend regularly throughout your third trimester of pregnancy. Traditional used to strengthen and tone the muscles of the uterus to minimise the duration of labour, and recovery of the uterus after birth. Mama Body Tea Raspberry leaf blend contains a rich source of iron, calcium, manganese and magnesium, vitamins B1, B3 and E which supports your health during this physical challenging time.

RRP: 14.95/each – Available from Mama Body Tea


What I Say:

First up is the Digestive Tea. If you’ve been pregnant, you’d know how uncomfortable the inevitable bloating and constipation can be. Personally I’ve found that being healthy, drinking sufficient water, and eating plenty of fruit is a great help, but sometimes just not quite enough. The Digestive Tea contains among others Peppermint leaf, Ginger root, Fennel seed, Rosehips and Marshmallow root.

The tea is best infused for about 7-10 minutes, and can be drunk both after meal as well as anytime during the day (or night), and no need to worry about it keeping you awake as it contains absolutely no caffeine!

I’ve always been a huge fan of peppermint tea, so I naturally love the taste of this tea, with the dominant flavour being peppermint. I am not personally a big fan of the ginger taste, but luckily it is not very strong.

In terms of effectiveness, it is always hard to tell, as symptoms come and go, probably depending on what you’ve had to eat the previous day too. However, I do believe that it has definitely not matters any worse. 


The Raspberry Leaf Tea has been developed to help strengthen and tone the muscles of the uterus to minimise the duration of labour, as well as help recovery of the uterus after birth. It is recommended to drink the tea regularly throughout the third trimester of the pregnancy, and it is recommended to avoid the tea during the first trimester.

The Raspberry leaf contains, apart from naturally Raspberry Leaf, also Peppermint and Nettle leaf, and yet again, I love that I can detect the taster of peppermint.

The tea needs to infuse in hot water for 10-15 minutes, and it is recommended that you drink 1-2 cups a day from the start of your first trimester, and increase to 3 cups per day in the last month of pregnancy.

As well as minimise duration of labour, the tea also promises to help nourish the uterine muscles, assist in strengthening the pelvic floor, calm cramping of the uterus, help stop excessive bleeding after birth, help soothe and prevent bleeding gums, promote milk supply and relieve sore throats, cold, flu, and diarrhoea. Wow, that sounds impressive!

At about 35 weeks pregnant at the time of writing this, I obviously cannot vouch for any of these claims. But I do know that the length of the labour when I gave birth to our little boy almost two years ago was very long, so any improvement this time around will be very welcome. I am aware that second time mums generally do give birth a lot quicker the second time around, so again, it will be difficult to actually measure the effects.

But what I can say is that I do enjoy drinking this tea – and even more so now that the weather is getting colder – and if there is just the slightest chance that I will have a shorter labour, then it is all worth it. Oh, and when I forget to drink it while it’s hot, I just drink it cold, which is pretty nice too. The flavour is ok, (I always drink my tea black with no sugar) although I do definitely prefer the taste of the Digestive tea.

Also available from the Mama Body Tea Range is a Morning Sickness Tea (Oh how I wish I’d heard of that one when I was constantly sick during the first trimester!!), a Nursing Tea to help increase breast milk supply and quality as well as a Baby Bliss Tea to help relax restless babies. NOTE - Common for both teas, is that they are herbal infusions and not a remedy or drug. Mama Body Tea also recommends consult a healthcare professional before using these products if you are pregnant or lactating and have any concerns.

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

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PRODUCT REVIEW: LUSH LIFE'S A BEACH AND SVE THE GREAT BARRIER REEF

I visited the Great Barrier Reef well over a decade ago, and I still remember it vividly, as it was simply such a beautiful experience. The Great Barrier Reef is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World,, but unfortunately it continues to struggle for survival due to climate change, coral bleaching and chemical run-off that harm the reef.

Lush recently launched Life’s A Beach and from April 7 to April 15, Lush joined forces with Environmentalist organisation, 1 Million Women to save Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Customers are encouraged to sign the petition which will be sent directly to World Heritage Committee members, and what’s more is that 100% of the proceeds of the Body Scrub (excl GST) was donated to charity 1 Million Women to help save the reef!


What They Say:
The Life’s A Beach is an ocean inspired, brightening and uplifting limited edition body scrub. Full of fresh sea salt and sand it will smooth and rejuvenate your skin. Scented with a fresh summery Melon fragrance, this fruity and light scent will perfume your skin and turn heads. Use sparingly after cleansing your skin to feel squeaky clean. Life’s A Beach was created exclusively for Australia and New Zealand to support our campaign to save the Great Barrier Reef.

RRP: $9.95 (225ml) – Available from Lush


What I Say:

This pot of Life’s A Beach is a limited edition body scrub that contains light and fluffy sand that when used on damp skin it is the most amazing body scrub that will leave your skin so soft and smooth, free from old dead skin cells. It will simply leave you skin healthy and glowing.


 

You don’t need to use a lot, and the fine sand is feels very gentle on the skin. It contains fresh sea salt and sand, and it has the most beautiful fresh fruity and floral scent of melon and gardenia.
 

It can be a little tricky to dig out the sand from the tub when you are in the shower without wasting too much product, so you have to be a little careful. And it does leave a little bit of sand residue in the bottom of your shower, but the soft and smooth skin along with the beautifully scent that lingers behind afterwards makes it all worth it!

Unfortunately Life’s A Beach is a limited edition product, made exclusively for Australia and New Zealand, so you’ll have to hurry to get your hands on a tub!

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

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PRODUCT REVIEW: ELIZABETH ARDEN FLAWLESS FINISH PERFECTLY SATIN 24HR MAKEUP SPF15

Today on the blog I’d like to introduce you to the newly launched Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Perfectly Satin 24HR Makeup SPF 15;

What They Say:

Makeup that's ready to commit. Flawless matte finish that lasts all day. 24 hours of colour-true makeup infused with transfer resistant technology that lasts through heat, humidity and moisture. Shine control ingredients are time released to absorb oil throughout the day for a flawless look. Available in 7 Shades.

RRP: $50 (30ml) – Available from David Jones and Myer


What I Say:
With combination skin, prone to some breakouts and with some scarring from past acne, as well as increasing pigmentation, it can often be difficult to find the right foundation to cover all my needs. However, the new Flawless Finish Perfectly Satin 24HR Makeup from Elizabeth Arden really ticks all boxes.

The foundation contains Plankton Extract, which helps to control sebum without drying the skin or clogging the pores, as well as time released Encapsulated Spheres monitor and absorb excess oil, which all means that your skin stays beautifully matte all day long, but also without looking dry or dull, thanks to also containing Vitamin E to keep the skin smooth and soft and mineral crystal mica to add glow to the skin.

The actual foundation is lightweight, yet it offers a medium to full coverage that blends quickly and easily into skin. It easily covers any imperfections, but without the foundation looking caked on. I found it easy to apply using either the fingers or a foundation brush, but I’m sure it will be just as easy with a foundation sponge or blender.

 

The foundation promises to stay put and colour-true for 24 hours without transferring or rubbing off, but I have to say that I’ve not quite put that claim to the test. Generally I apply makeup in the morning and always remove it before going to bed, and let me tell you, being over 34 weeks pregnant means that I am no longer a night owl!! However, I can vouch for the foundation staying put for that period of time, without looking shiny or greasy, and without settling into fine lines or wrinkles. It also stays colour-true as promised, and it definitely doesn’t rub off or transfer, as my little boy’s jumper would otherwise be a proof of that, as he constantly wants to hug mummy!

The foundation also comes with Broad Spectrum Sunscreen of SPF15 to protect the skin from harmful UVA and UV rays.

The foundation comes in a heavy duty glass bottle that makes it look very luxurious. It comes with a pump, which I really like, as it is not only hygienic but it also makes it easy to dispense just the amount of foundation needed

So overall I am so in love with this Flawless Finish Perfectly Satin 24HR Makeup, as it gives me the coverage I need, and stays put all day without making my skin look greasy or shiny, yet while giving me a natural seamless look. If you too have combination or oily skin, and looking for a foundation with a good coverage, then you’ll love this one too!

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

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PRODUCT REVIEW: VS SASSOON DEEP RETRO GLAM CERAMIC WAVER

Today I’d like to introduce you to the newly launched VS Sassoon Deep Retro Glam Ceramic Waver Hair Styler;

What They Say:

VS Sassoon Deep Retro Glam is a triple barrel styler designed to create super defined waves in hair. It features ceramic technology™ for even heat distribution that results in a silky, smooth finish. The styler heats up to 200˚C in as little as 30 seconds, with an LED indicator light, three variable temperature settings, swivel cord and cool touch ends for comfortable use.

RRP: $52.95 – Available from Electrical Appliance Retailers


What I Say: Having always had long straight hair (well apart from that period in the 80s when everyone was sporting a perm, including me!), it can sometimes be a bit boring. I know, the typical case of never being happy with what you’ve got. Got straight hair, you want curls, and if you’ve got curls, you no doubt wish you had straight hair!

The Deep Retro Glam Styler is basically a hair straightener, but as it is not a flat barrel, but rather a deep triple barrel, you can quickly and easily create defined retro glam waves at home in minutes, much in style with the hair styles that dominated in the 20s.

 

The styler heats up quickly to 200C, and has a light that indicates when it is warm. The plates feature a ceramic technology that not only protects the hair by providing an even heat distribution as well as leave the hair soft and shiny. The styler also has three different heat settings so you can pick the setting that’s best suited to your hair type. Personally, with thick and long hair, I find that using the highest heat setting gives me the best, and fasted result.

I also find that I get a better result by first spraying my hair with a heat styling spray, or alternatively a styling mousse, and as soon as I have finished styling the hair, I spray it with a flexible hair spray, which makes the waves last longer in my hair.

I really love this styler as it is so quick and easy to use to give my hair some much needed volume and waves, which is such a nice change from my usual flat and straight hair – and the result is so casual and natural too. At just $52.95 it is an absolute bargain.

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

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PRODUCT REVIEW: KIEHL'S RARE EARTH DEEP PORE CLEANSING MASK AND RECYCLE AND BE REWARDED ECO-LOYALTY PROGRAM

In honour of Earth Day this month (April 22nd), Kiehl’s is relaunching its eco-loyalty recycling loyalty program and to celebrant they are launching the limited edition pot of their renowned Earth Day Limited Edition Rare Earth Pore Cleansing Masque. What better way to embrace the Earth than with Rare Earth!!

Kiehl’s want to remind their customers of the loyalty program they’ve been promoting worldwide since 2009. Basically, if you return an empty Kiehl’s jars, bottles and tubes back into one of their stores, they'll reward you with freebies! If you return one empty Kiehl’s product you’ll receive 1 stamp, and the more stamps, the more you are rewarded! Bring in 3 empties and receive a free Kiehl’s Lip Balm #1, collect 5 stamps and receive a free Crème De Corps (75ml) and 10 stamps will get you a free full sized Ultra Facial Cream! What a good offer is that, and all while being kinder to the environment!

Now on to the Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Mask. To celebrate the and put focus on the Recycle & Be Rewarded Eco-Loyalty Program as well as Earth Day, Kiehl’s has collaborated with an artist on a limited edition label for the Rare Earth Pore Cleansing Masque. The label has been designed to feature the elemental themes - wind, water, fire, earth, to make the user consider their every-day actions and their effects on the environment.

The key ingredient of the Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Mask is fairly traded Amazonian White Clay, which helps purify and detoxify skin while minimising the appearance of enlarged pores, as well as gently draw out oil, dirt and toxins that can clog pores. It also contains Oatmeal and Aloe Vera to soothe, hydrate and protect sensitive skin.

The Amazonian White Clay is sourced from Marajo Island, the largest island surrounded by fresh water in the world. This special clay is gathered at the mouth of the Amazon River at the beginning of the dry season, after months of being nourished by the leaves, fruits, and seeds swept down the river from the rainforest. In fact, for centuries, this indigenous ingredient, also known as “magic earth”, has been used by Brazilian Indians to protect themselves against skin problems, insect bites, and snake poison

The deep-pore cleansing masque may be used for normal to oily skin types to help eliminate debris and dead surface skin-cell accumulation that can clog pores and leave skin dull-looking. I have always had combination skin, with large pores and prone to breakouts, so I am always after a good gentle mask that can help minimise oil, clogged pores, and breakouts. And after using the mask a few times, I have to say that I am impressed to say that my skin feels incredibly soft and smooth ad so clean and refined, and significantly less greasy, yet without my skin feeling dry or tight. And these results lasted a few days where I generally felt that my skin was less greasy, and consequently that my makeup during those days stayed put for longer than usual. I had a few minor breakouts, but after using the mask, I also felt that they diminished in size and cleared up faster than I think they otherwise would.

So overall I am really impressed with this Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Mask as I can really tell that it makes such a difference in the look and feel of my skin, and I am convinced that with continued frequent use, that I will have less and less breakouts too.

The Kiehl's Rare Earth Deep Pore Cleansing Mask, Limited Edition has an RRP of $36 (125ml), and is available from Kiehl’s
*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

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PRODUCT REVIEW: BEYONCE RISE SHEER EAU DE PARFUM

Today I’d like to share with you a new limited edition fragrance from Beyonce, the Beyonce Rise Sheer Eau de Parfum; 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What They Say:

 

A sparkling, fresh floral, Beyonce Rise Sheer is a lighter, fresher version of the alluring BEYONCÉ RISE scent. Featuring notes of citrus, orchid and blonde woods, it offers all of the gold sophistication of RISE with a fresh and alluring attitude.

 

RRP: $69 (100ml) – Available from Myer and Select Pharmacies

 

 

What I Say:

 

The original Beyonce Rise perfume was inspired by the singers on-stage persona, as well as by female empowerment and finding the inner strength that makes women so beautiful. The new limited edition Rise Sheer, is somewhat similar, although naturally a lot lighter and fresher, which personally I do prefer.

 

It contains:

 

• Top notes: Italian Bergamot, Sicilian Lemon, Iced Basil Sorbet
• Middle Notes: Gold Symphony Orchid, White Peony, Hydroponic Jasmine
• Bottom Notes: Blonde Woods, Sheer Musk, White Amber 

 

I love that it includes lemon, as zesty scents are amongst my favourites, and also that you can detect notes of jasmine and peony. It also contains mush and amber, which I have to admit I often find too heavy for my liking, but luckily that is not the case with the Rise Sheer, a the citrus and floral notes are more dominant.

 

As is usually the case with light fragrances, it doesn’t last all day, and I do find that I have to reapply by the middle of the day. But the light scent is perfect for everyday casual use, and in all honestly, would probably be better suited for spring and summer and not autumn and winter as we are not heading towards here in Australia.

  

The fragrance comes in a tall glass bottle with a gold lid, and it is supposed to symbolise the ‘Rise’ of Beyonce’s career as a singer. Unfortunately the gold lid is made from plastic, which I do feel is a little tacky, and makes it feel a little less luxurious.

 

However, all in all this is a lovely fresh scent, and as I generally prefer fresh and light scents, I consequently also much prefer this Rise Sheer over the original Rise scent.

  

If you too like light scents, then I highly recommend that you check it out sooner rather than later, as it is a limited edition.

 

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

 

 

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PRODUCT REVIEW: NATIO UPLIFTED MOTHER'S DAY GIFT SET

Today I’d Like to share with you another beautiful gift idea for Mother’s Day, this time the Uplifted Gift Set from Natio; 

This stunning gift set comes presented in a gorgeous floral gift box that has a magnetic closure, so it is perfect for using afterwards to store other items such as jewellery and other little things.

 

The gift set contains;

 

• Spa Pep-Up Body Cleanser, 210ml
• Spa Heavenly Hand Cream, 90ml
• Spa Hydrating Body Soap, 130g

As soon as you open the gift set you can smell the gorgeous refreshing scent of the products. The Spa Pep-Up Body Cleanser is a gel body cleaner, which has been enriched with certified organic ginkgo biloba, peppermint, eucalyptus, lemongrass and basil. It smells so beautiful, with its zesty scent that has been mixed up with a touch of natural spice from the eucalyptus and basil, and it is so uplifting and refreshing in the shower, while also having a slightly cooling sensation on the skin thanks to the peppermint!

  

 

 

 

 

 

The Spa Heavenly Hand Cream has been enriched with certified organic Aloe Vera, Ginseng and Coconut Water to soothe tired hands. The light non-greasy formula absorbs quickly into the skin leaving them feeling silky soft, but I also love that it has been formulated to help reduce the appearance of pigmentation and age spots as well as strengthen the nails at the same time. The cream has a lovely gentle scent of warm scent of the natural coconut water, a scent that lingers on the skin for quite a while.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, the Spa Hydrating Body Soap, is a soap bar that is olive oil based and designed to cleanse, purify, moisturise and condition dry skin. The soap is triple milled, and enriched with plant extracts and botanical oils including olive leaf to make it gentle and creamy, jojoba, almond, carrot and sesame oils to hydrate, and lemongrass and lime to refresh and stimulate the circulation. It has such a beautiful zesty scent that uplifting and refreshing.

  

 

 

 

 

 

So all in all this is another perfect gift idea for Mother’s Day, and at just $24.95 so it won’t break the budget.

 

 

Natio is available from Myer, David Jones, Natio Online and select pharmacies 

 

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

 

 

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PRODUCT REVIEW: L'OCCITANE EN PROVENCE IMMORTELLE DIVINE YOUTH OIL AND CREAM

I have previously declared my love for the products from L’Occitane En Provence, and today I’d like to share with you some absolutely divine products, the Divine Immortelle Youth Oil and Cream;

What They Say:
Immortelle Divine Youth Oil helps fight visible signs of ageing for a skin texture that appears firmer, as if plumped from within.

RRP: $120 (30ml) – Available from L’Occitane


Immortelle Divine Cream, with 5 patents, the Divine Cream acts at the heart of cells to visibly correct all signs of ageing, for beautiful, younger-looking skin.

RRP: $145 (50ml) – Available from L’Occitane 

What I Say: 

Both the Youth Serum and the Cream contains immortelle, a flower with exceptional longevity, it never fades, even after it has been picked. Organic Immortelle from Corsica is rich in active molecules that deliver unique anti-ageing beauty results. The Divine Immortelle products, contains immortelle along with a unique botanical-7 booster complex, that utilises the power of nature, to deliver optimum results at the very heart of the cells, providing complete rejuvenation of the skin by lifting the features, redefining facial contours and brightening dark spots as well as the skin’s tone to ensure that the skin retains its youthful glow.

Let me start by talking about the L’Occitane Immortelle Divine Youth Oil, which is best used at night time when the skin does most of its cell renewal. The oil can be used either alone, or before your serum and moisturiser.

The actual oil is very concentrated, and you just need a few tiny drops to cover your full face, neck and décolleté.

The oil is made from 100% natural oils, and it has a beautiful lightweight silky texture that absorbs quickly into the skin without any greasiness. It is also non comedogenic, so also perfect for my combination skin, prone to breakouts.

The Youth Oil promises to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, improve the skins firmness and tone, and leave the skin smoother and more radiant.

The Youth Oil comes in a gorgeous glass bottle that makes it look a little like a perfume bottle. It has a pipette style applicator that makes it easy to dispense just the amount of oil needed. And it has the most beautiful floral scent that no doubt comes from the included natural oils.

I used the Divine Youth Oil in combination with the Divine Cream, so it is not quite possible to prove the effects of the Youth Oil on its own.

I used the Divine Cream morning and evening, although after a few uses I did start to use it at night only, as I found it a little too rich for my combination skin. But used as a night cream, it worked perfectly for my skin.

 The L'Occitane Immortelle Divine Cream also promises visible correct all signs of ageing, for a more younger-looking skin, in short, it promises to deeply nourish the skin, reduce wrinkles and firm the skin, restore elasticity, even the skin tone and reduce dark spots and leave the skin looking radiant.

The Divine Cream comes in a cute little yellow glass jar with a gold screw lid, and there’s no denying that the luxurious packaging of the Youth Oil and Divine Cream looks amazing on the bathroom shelf. I also love that the Cream comes with a tiny little plastic spatula so you don’t have to constantly dip your fingers into the cream and contaminate it – such a small thing, but makes the world of difference to me, so huge bonus points!

The actual cream is so lovely, and like the Youth Oil, it is very concentrated so you just need a little, or I do anyway, with my combination skin that is not particularly ‘thirsty’, but of course those with drier skin types may find themselves needing a little more!

The cream absorbs quickly and easily into the skin, and it instantly makes the skin feel soft and smooth and thoroughly moisturised.

So how did the Youth Oil and the Cream perform after using them for about a month? Well I am happy to say that I can definitely see and feel that my skin is looking more plump, radiant and glowing. Some pigmentation appears to be minimised in appearance (but keeping in mind that I’m currently pregnant, so it’s been fighting an up-hill battle!), and fine lines, especially on my forehead and between my brows also appear to have softened in appearance and are less noticeable.

So overall I can only say that I am impressed with the results in just 4 weeks. And as the products are so concentrated, I have more than enough to last me for another couple of months, so I look forward to continuing to see results.

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

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