PRODUCT REVIEW: BENEFIT NEW LAUNCHES - ROLLER LASH MASCARA, POREFESSIONAL MATTE RESCUE, DEW THE HOOLA, DANDELION AND HERVANA

Today I'd like to introduce you to some newer product launches from Benefit, which includes the Roller Lash Mascara, the Porefessional Matte Rescue, Dew the Hoola, Dandelion Brightening Finishing Powder and the Hervana Blush.

Let's start with the Roller Lash Curling Mascara. I've always been a huge fan of the They're Real Mascara from Benefit, and actually it rates amongst my favourite mascaras - so honestly not expecting this mascara to get any better. I was wrong! I'm usually way to busy getting ready to also fit in the use of a lash curler, but with this mascara it is actually not really necessary as it both lifts and curls the lashes, while easily separating them and giving them good volume too. I also love that it contains lash caring ingredients such as provitamin B5 and serin, to condition the lashes. Definitely a strong contender to the They're Real Mascara and worth checking out.

Next up is the Porefessional Matte Rescue - and again, being a huge Porefessional fan, with my combination skin, I am very excited about this new addition that is specifically designed for the greasier skin types. It promises to instantly reduce the appearance of pores, while absorbing excess surface oil to give the skin a natural matte finish. The primer can be used both on its own, and under makeup and it is very lightweight, and feels lovely on the skin, and you can immediately see that it does really reduce pore size as well as give the skin a velvety soft finish, that in my case lasts throughout the day. The standard Porefessional usually does do the job in keeping my makeup stay put and matte throughout the day during the colder winter months where my skin does get a little drier, but come spring and summer when the oil production in my skin really fires up again, this will be the perfect rescue.

Then there's the Dew the Hoola, which is a liquid bronzer, which gives your face a tanned glow all-year round, without any shimmer, to make it look very natural. It has very light formula, and the tinted cream, gives your face just a hint of sheer colour (which you can build up a tad without any shimmer or sheen, which is also what makes it look so natural, as well as it also gives manages to warm up you complexion and give it a nice healthy looking glow with a soft matte finish. Because it is so light, it is also very easy to apply and blend, and just a pump or two from the gorgeous golden pump bottle is all that it takes, just note that you do have to blend quickly as it dries really fast. I also really love that it can be used both on its own on its own on bare skin, or on top of your usual foundation.

Then there's the Dandelion Brightening Finishing Powder, which is a sheer mid-pink powder intended as a face powder to help brighten a dull complexion making it look more radiant and refreshed as it is also containing a subtle hint of shimmer. The powder can also be used as a blush, and although it does go on sheer, you can to some degree build up the colour somewhat. Because of being sheer and a lighter shade, I find that it is more suitable for paler skin tones, and I also admit to preferring darker blush shades - however, I do really enjoy using it as a face powder making my face look fresher and more awake. This powder has a beautiful scent and also comes with the usual soft brush, which is of good quality, and good to use when you're on the go, but at home, I must admit to preferring a larger brush.

Finally, there's the Hervana Blush which contains a combination of four shades in a pretty kaleidoscope-style pattern, pale nude, apricot, rose, and berry, - the shades are too small to apply individually a blushes, but they could, if you wish, be used as eyeshadow shades. Combined the four shades, in spite of the lighter shades in the mix, apply like a bright berry shade on the cheeks - perfect for adding a touch of colour to an otherwise pale winter face! I also like that it applies with a soft satin finish and unlike many other blushes, this one applies without any shimmer or glitter.

Overall some brilliant new products from Benefit, so picking a favourite amongst these is impossible - I love the Roller Lash Mascara, the Porefessional Matte Rescue will be invaluable come summer when my skin yet again becomes greasier. During these winter months, I love the glow the Dew the Hoola gives my skin and Hervana manages to give it some much needed life, and how Dandelion manages to make it look brighter. All in all, well done Benefit in yet again launching some amazing products, that are definitely worth checking out.


Roller Lash Mascara - RRP: $42 / 8.5g
Porefessional Matte Rescue - RRP: $49 / 50ml
Dew the Hoola - RRP: $49 / 30ml
Dandelion Face Powder - RRP: $51
Hervana Blush - RRP: $51

Benefit Cosmetics is available from Benefit online, Myer, Sephora, Adore Beauty,
 
* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

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HOSPITAL BAG - MAKEUP

Just nine days left until the baby is due!! Well of course, unless baby wants to come sooner that is. I know that I won’t feel like wearing full-on makeup whilst in hospital, but still, I know that I will feel a lot better if I wear at least a little when visitors come to meet our little bub. And not to mention later on when I look at all the happy snaps that will no doubt be taken.
The intended stay at the hospital is about 4 nights, so at least I'll get something for all the money we're forking out on private hospital cover each month! So I have packed some key makeup items for the stay – plus a few more, just in case… and although I did initially plan on packing lightly, I know it will still contain a lot more products than originally intended, but what I can I say, I'm serial over-packer, and besides, it is always easier to bring it along yourself, than having to ask hubby to find it and bring it for you!! Anyway, here’s what I’ve included; 

Thalgo BB Cream Perfect Glow

This BB Cream from Thalgo, is perfect as it helps give the skin some much needed moisture (who doesn’t get dry skin when they’re in hospital), plus it gives the skin a light coverage with and a nice healthy and radiant glow. I don’t expect to look like Kate (after all, I doubt I’ll have a makeup and hair artist at hand!), just a few hours after birth, but I’d still like to look my best when visitors are coming and for the tons of photos that will be taken and treasured for years and years to come. RRP: $47.00


Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Perfectly Satin 24HR Makeup
This foundation is my current favourite full coverage foundation, and if my skin is going to be playing up, which it is prone to, then this will be my go-to product. I know that it will give me a good, yet natural coverage, and best of all, I can trust that it stays put all day, so I don’t need to worry about having to touch-up, or that it rubs off onto my little bub. RRP: $50.00

Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer
As I write this, I am feeling pretty drained and tired as I’ve completely forgotten what a good night’s sleep is, which consequently does show with increasing dark circles under my eyes. My preferred go to concealer is here the Secret Camouflage concealer, which comes with two shades so that you can blend your ideal shade. It is quick and easy to apply, and stays put all day. The perfect camouflage for looking like you’re well-rested! $49.00
 
Jane Iredale Blush + Amazing Base Mineral PowderIf I do feel like I need a touch up during the day, I swear by the refillable brush from Jane Iredale with the Amazing Base powder. It is simply so quick and easy to use, and the powder is so fine it gives you a natural look without setting into the fine lines. Unfortunately I’ve lost the lid to the powder brush, so I’ll have to be careful when packing it! RRP: Refillable Brush: $45.00, Amazing Base Powder: $79.00



ELES Mineral Makeup Blush in Coral Sun

This would have to be one of my my most reached for blushes. The peachy-pink shade simply instantly gives my dull and drab looking face some much needed spark, thanks to the lightly shimmery formula. And as all the other products I’ve picked out, I can trust that it will stay put without fading of sliding off my face during the day. RRP: $39.50


Ere Perez Clever Carrot Cheek & Lip Balm
If I am wearing the BB Cream, and not the full covering foundation from Elizabeth Arden, then I really like the more natural blushed cheek look that I get from using the Clever Carrot Cheek & Lip Balm from Ere Perez. It is super quick to blend into your cheeks with your fingers for a sheer non-makeup natural look. And clever as it is, you can simply swipe any remains of the cream onto your lips, for a beautiful lip stain. RRP: $27.95

Jane Iredale Rose Dawn Bronzer
Another Jane Iredale favourite that will make it into the cosmetic bag is the Rose Dawn Bronzer. This bronzer contains four different colours, and combined, it gives the skin a beautiful glow. And I love that you can also use the colours individually on both cheeks and eyes, should I feel like it! RRP: $90.00


Jane Iredale Pommisst Hydration Spray Finally, I will also be packing the Pommisst Hydration Spray from Jane Iredale as it not only helps set your makeup, but it also gives it a more natural and dewy look, all while feeling refreshing tired skin, soothing dry skin and adding some much needed moisture. RRP: $39.00



Clinique Chubby Stick in Lots o’ Latte
I doubt that I will be feeling like doing a full on eye makeup up, so that’s where I rely on this Chubby eye shadow stick from Clinique. The shade Lots o’ Latte is a gorgeous mid-brown shimmery shade that I find myself using on its own all the time when I’m in a hurry, so it is the perfect shade to bring, as one swipe, followed with a quick blend with my fingers, is all it takes. RRP: $35.00


L’Oreal Paris Super Liner Blockbuster
One thing that I never fail to do is my eyes, as I simply feel I look so much more awake and fresher when they are done. And one of my favourites is the Liquid Super Liner Blockbuster from L’Oreal. The large texta like pen, quickly and easily draws a line, and I can trust that it will stay put all day. RRP: $16.95


L’Oreal Paris Super Liner Silkissime
Another trusted favourite from L’Oreal is the Silkissime eyeliner for below the last line. Again, it is quick and easy to use, without dragging or pulling my eye area, and although I’ve got sensitive eyes that water easily (and let’s face it, I may become a little teary at the arrival of our little bub), but I can always trust this eyeliner to stay without smudging. RRP: $22.95

Max Factor Excess Volume Mascara
This mascara is huge, about twice the size as any other mascara. But so are the results. The two step mascara starts with the Extreme Volume building end that helps quickly add volume to even the sparsest of lashes, while the Dark Lacquer end ensures that your lashes have a nice glossy finish. And one quick coat of each end is all that it takes for a natural look, while you can of course add a few more coats for a more dramatic look. $26.95


Benefit Gimme Brow
Serial over-plucking of my brows years ago, now means that they are thinner and sparser than I really like, so a good brow product is a necessity. The Gimme Brow from Benefit, is the perfect choice, as the mascara style wand is quick and easy to swipe across your brows for instantly fuller, yet natural looking brows that at the same time stays in place thanks to the added gel. RRP: $35.00


Covergirl Colorlicious lipgloss
And of course I cannot neglect my lips, so I will be bringing these Colorlicious Lipglosses from Covergirl with me. The Give Me Guava is a medium shade warm pink with a gloss sheen, that on the lips shows up as a barely there shade with just the glossy sheen. The Berrylicious shade is a slightly darker warm mauve shade, in case I feel like something a little darker, yet still while being a quite subtle and muted shade. And being lip glosses they are quick and easy to apply, and feels lovely and non – sticky on the lips. RRP: $16.95

 
Sisley Paris Phyto Lip Shine
And last but not least, because I can never leave the house without a larger selection of lip products (last time I emptied out my handbag (read nappy bag), I found no less than 8 different lipsticks and lipglosses, as well as I also always have a couple stashed away in my car, just in case! So just got to bring at least one more, and cannot go past one of my current favourites, the Sisley Phyto Lip Shine in Sheer Berry. This lip shine is a combination of a lip balm and a lip stain, leaving the lips soft and hydrated which will be so lovely in the dry hospital air, all while giving the lips a beautiful sheer stain with a subtle sheen. RRP: $50So there you go, the makeup I'll be taking with me to hospital...hope I haven't forgotten anything!!

* Some products may have been provided for consideration, but would still be reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
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PRODUCT REVIEW: MARIE CLAIRE THE PARCEL - SPRING EDIT

Beauty Subscription boxes are very popular at the moment, and new boxes seems to be popping up very frequently. And with good reason. Personally I love the idea. As a stay at home mum, these days I have limited funds to spend on myself, so I would like spending my money on beauty products I know I will love, and not some that I after first use with stash away under the bathroom sink not to be found again until years later the products is too old to use and can only be thrown in the bin. That is just a waste. But bring in the beauty boxes and you get access to generous sample sizes of products you would otherwise never thought to try or buy, and now you get the chance before wasting money on products that may not suit your skin type or tone.

The newest kid on the blog is from Marie Claire. And let me start by saying that I have been a devoted Marie Claire reader for years. And I have been saving years worth of copies, but did throw away about 5 years of back issues when we moved in the beginning of the year. Do you have any idea how much room they take up, and how heavy they are?

 

 

Anyway, I love Marie Claire for keeping me in the loop with the latest within fashion, trends, lifestyle and of course beauty, - so launching a beauty subscription box which includes the newest within beauty products seems to be like the most natural expansion of the magazine.

Here are my thoughts on the very first edition of Marie Claire The Parcel, The Spring Edit*, which arrived just as I was about to take off to the airport for my Europe holiday, so apologies for the delayed review, but I hope you have been following my social media pages where I did post a sneaky teaser of the contents..



What They Say:

RRP: $25 per quarter (1 box), or $90 for a year (4 boxes), or alternatively $149 for a year (4 boxes) plus you will get a years subscription (12 issues) to Marie Claire


What I Say:

So what was in the launch box from The Parcel; 

OPI Nail Lacquer in Love Angel Music Baby – Full Size, 15ml, RRP $19.95

 

This shade is a lovely gold shade, and comes from the Gwen Stefani range. The golden shade is perfect of a the upcoming Xmas festive season. I believe that the Gwen Stefani range is a slightly older collection by now, but regardless, I love OPI polishes and do not have a gold shade in my collection, so it is a very welcome addition.




REVLON Colorstay Moisture Stain in #010 Exclusive' – Full Size, RRP: $25.95

 

This lip stain is quite pigmented and is a combination between a gloss and a stain, still leaving a nice colour on the lips. The shade ‘Exclusive’ is a lovely medium pink shade that is perfect for daytime casual wear.




Benefit They're Real NEW Push-Up Liner – Sample Size, 0.10g (RRP: $35/Full Size)

 

I have heard so many good things about this eye liner and have so been wanting to try it out, and see for myself if it lives up to all the hype - so timing with this cute little sample just couldn’t be better.

 

Benefit They're Real Beyond Mascara – Sample Size (RRP: $38/Full Size)

 

I already know this mascara and have previously reviewed it. Like most others I love it, and have repurchased a few times already. And fact is that I actually prefer the smaller sample sizes to the large full sized mascara as that way it doesn’t dry out on me, plus it is more convenient for the handbag!

 

Lancome Visionnaire LR2412 4% Cx Advanced Skin Corrector – Sample Size, 7ml (RRP: $97/30ml)

 

I was lucky to go to the exclusive Lancome launch of this serum, so I have already been using this for almost a month now and absolutely love it, so while the small sample is not news to me as such, I certainly don’t mind getting a small top up so I can continue to use it for a little longer. It promises to help refine the skin and correct the appearance of wrinkles, pores and uneven skin tone, and so far I am loving the results!



L’Oreal Paris Elnett Satin Absolute Extreme Hold Hair Spray – Purse Size, 75ml (RRP: $4.95)

 

I have used this hairspray for years, even before it was introduced in Europe! I always have a large can as I like how it controls especially the small flyaways around my hairline, yet without making my hair feel heavy or stiff. And it easily brushes out again. And this purse sized bottle is always handy to have at hand for getaways to even pop in the gym bag!


Pantene Pro-V Daily Moisture Renewal Shampoo & Conditioner – Sample Sizes, 40ml each (RRP: $4.99/200ml each)

 

This cute small set of shampoo and conditioner from Pantene is listed as bonus items. The products are newly formulated so they should offer more intense hydration while working on repairing and revitalising damaged hair. I have already tried the original formula which is lovely for a budget shampoo and conditioner, so I look forward to seeing how this improved version performs.

So there you go the first Parcel from Marie Claire. And generally I have to say that I am very impressed with the contents. It contains two full sized items, or really three if you count the hairspray, and these three items along retail at over $50, twice the cost of the box. And in addition you also get to try two great products from Benefit and the newly launched serum from Lancome. Well done Marie Claire on your launch box, The Spring Edit, I can’t wait to see what the next Parcel will bring..

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

What do you think of The Parcel? Keen on subscribing? Tried any of the products?

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TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

As you might have read by now, I am about currently in Europe, more specifically in Denmark visiting my family, along with our 15 month old boy, so that he can meet the rest of the family. Needless to say that I’m enjoying my time.


Getting here was pretty exhausting through, it is a long way to travel with such a little one, trying to keep him entertained all the time, but luckily he was very well behaved and got lots of attention from both flight attendants and fellow travellers too.


Travelling just the two of us suddenly meant that packing was a bit of a challenge, having to suddenly fit enough stuff for both of us into the one suitcase. And well, my boy needed the stuff he needs, including toys, so it meant that I sadly had to restrict the amount of stuff I took along, including shoes, makeup and skincare. It called for very smart packing. Here are some of the things that made the cut;


Benefit Radiant Skincare Set*

  

To get me started, the Radiant Skincare set from Benefit is an excellent choice. It includes Refined Finish Facial Polish to exfoliate and purity the skin while minimising the pores. It also contains a Foaming Clean Facial Wash to remove makeup and keep your skin clean and clear, as well as a Moisture Prep Toning Lotion that removes any remaining makeup while revitalising and keeping the skin hydrated and ready to absorb moisturiser. Next in the box is Triple Performing Facial Emulsion SPF15, which is an oil-free gel that helps keep your skin moisturised and the Total Moisture Facial Cream that provides both immediate and long-term hydration to the skin, perfect for long-haul flights that always seem to wreak havoc with the skin. Finally, it contains It’s Potent! Eye Cream that helps fade dark circles and help smooth fine lines. The products come in the perfect travel sizes so they are perfect to bring in your hand luggage on your flight to make sure your skin stays in top condition. The products smell absolutely amazing and come in the cutest small retro-style bottles and jars, all packaged in a clear sip-cosmetic case – Simply all you need for radiant skin on your holiday!

RRP: $24 – Available from Myer

 

MediK8 Beta Cleanser*

My skin has always been prone to breakouts, and I know from experience that it can be difficult to keep up a good skincare routine when you’re on holidays, doing weekly face masks etc., so a good cleanser is absolutely vital in keeping my skin clean and clear. And the Medik8 betaCleanse™ is absolutely perfect to use as the second cleanse at night, to give the skin a deep cleanse, as it both cleanses deep down every pore, is antibacterial and gently exfoliating the skin at the same time. The cleanser contains beta hydroxy acid-salicylic acid with a novel niacinamide, tea tree oil and chlorhexidine gluconate blend to help improve the appearance of problematic skin, whilst helping prevent future breakouts, and all while being extremely gently on the skin and not stripping the skin of its natural oils. The liquid turns into a soft and light foam when you pump it out, and after massaging it into my skin, I like to leave it on the skin while I brush my teeth for a deeper clean before rinsing it off. It comes in a handy 40ml pump bottle so it is perfect for travelling.

RRP $13.90 (40ml) – Available from Advanced Cosmeceuticals or call 1800 242 011 to enquire



Gillette Venus Snap with Embrace*

 

 
Being away for a few weeks of course I cannot neglect shaving, and this funky travel-sided shaver from Gillette is both ever so cute and absolutely perfect. This new razor has a very compact mini-handle, while still featuring the best Gillette Venus 5-blade you’ve become accustomed to, which is surrounded by a ribbon of moisture to keep your skin soft and smooth. And while the handle is so small, you still get the perfect grip. And what’s better is that it comes in a nifty little compact container so you can just pop it into your bag (suitcase that is, as they don’t allow shaving blades in carry-on luggage!) so you can continue to have super smooth skin while on holidays. And you don’t have to buy special blades as the mini-handle is interchangeable with the standard Venus Embrace blade refills.

RRP: $15.95 – Available from Priceline, from Rouge Mag Online and from November also from select pharmacies and supermarkets 



Skindinavia Makeup Primer and Finishing Sprays*
 

 

It doesn’t matter how good a foundation you use, a good primer is always vital for a flawless finish. And the new travel sized Makeup Primer Sprays from Skindinavia are absolutely brilliant for travelling. The small 20 ml bottles come in two varieties, the No More Shine Makeup Finish is an oil-controlling makeup setting spray that helps my makeup stay put in the periods when it is greasy and nothing stays put past lunchtime, as it helps controls shine and absorbs oil over the face and t-zone and thus preventing the makeup from slipping. The finishing spray is a superfine mist that helps set the foundation quickly, and it helps prevent your foundation from fading or settling into fine lines. A quick spray during the day is perfect for refreshing the makeup.

RRP: $14 (20ml) each – Available from Skindinavia


bhave Rescue Shampoo and Conditioner and Riot Control Oil*

 
 

You are probably getting fed up with me raving about these products (you can see my review on the Rescue shampoo and conditioner here and the Riot Control Oil here) from bhave, but regardless how many other fantastic hair products I use, it is like my hair is ‘at home’ with these, simply behaving better, and looking and feeling so much nicer and healthier, and it is like it is getting heathier and healthier for each day I use the products. My hair is easier to comb and knots less, so I feel I damage it less when I comb it. And the Riot Control Oil not only controls my flyaway hairs and smooths it down, but it also makes the dry ends look stronger and healthier while giving my hair an amazing lustre and shine. 

RRP: Products above from a travel set, but full sized products available individualy; Shampoo and Conditioner, each $43.95 (300ml), Riot Control $48.95 (100ml) - Available from Select Salons


Lady Jayne Tangleze*

 

And of course you cannot neglect your hair. I have long thick hair and always carry around a hairbrush, which is usually quite bulky. But thanks to the new Tangleze from Lady Jayne that is a thing of the past. You see, the hairbrush fits into the palm of your hand, and it has a clever cover so you can protect the bristles from getting bent and damaged in an already overfilled handbag.

The Tangleze is surprisingly good on long hair, as it has dual-length bristles that quickly and easily, and very gently brushes the hair, and clears any tangles you might have, and in both wet and dry hair. All without the need to pull or drag at the hair, which is so much better for the hair, preventing damage and split ends. And the hairbrush is superlight (leaving room for another couple of lipsticks, guilty, you can never have too many lippies in your handbag, LOL), and it comes in a super cute and girlie black and hot pink colour combination.

 RR: $12.95 – Available from Priceline, and select pharmacies and variety stores

 

Philips VisaPure Facial Cleansing Brush*

I have previously reviewed (you can see my review here) this facial cleansing brush, and while I have to be honest and admit that I have a few different I rotate, this one was my preferred choice to take away. Now, I wouldn’t normally take it with me on short breaks, but going away for a month, I simply feared my skin would start breaking out so much that I knew it had to make the trip too. So the reason I picked the VisaPure is that its design is a lot slimmer than other brushes. The brush is both rotating and rotating cleansing deep down every pore, while still being so gentle that it can be used twice a day. And as a bonus it is also waterproof so it can also be used in the shower.

RRP: $199 – Available from Myer and The Shaver Shop



Philips DiamondClean Black Edition Toothbrush*

  

As fittingly named, this toothbrush has been called the James Bond of toothbrushes! With its sleek matte black and chrome finish, it is simply the coolest and most stylish electric toothbrush I have ever seen. The toothbrush has a digital display that illuminates showing the five brush settings from Clean, White, Gum Care, Sensitive, and Polish. It is so high tech that it has been 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. WOW, that is impressive.

And when on holidays I know that I tend to eat a little naughtier than I otherwise do, a few more ice creams, a little more dessert, and of course, being in Denmark I cannot go past an authentic Danish Pastry. So this toothbrush was an absolute must in my suitcase to ensure my teeth stayed clean and healthy. And what’s even better is that the toothbrush comes with a cool black travel case with funky lime-green lining, and the case also doubles as a USB charger so you can charge it directly from your laptop. Nothing short of brilliant. 
RRP: $299.95 – Available from The Shaver Shop, Harvey Norman, Myer, David Jones and selected national retailers



Mary Kay Thinking of You Pendant Perfume*
 

I have also previously reviewed this pendant perfume from Mary Kay (see my review here), and as I mentioned at the time, it is perfect for taking with you for adding a little fragrance during the day. And also doubling as a necklace, it was the perfect travel companion too. It has a lovely fruity scent and has a pretty good staying power, plus it looks stunning too, for both day and nighttime wear.

Available from Mary Kay

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

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PRODUCT REVIEW: BEST OF BENEFIT

I think the whole world has fallen in love with the quirky American brand with the ever so cute retro packaging, and the brand has so many products that have now got a cult following. Here are my picks for the Best of Benefit;

 

 

Benefit Benetint*

 

This rose-tinted stain is such an amazing multi-tasker, suitable for both lips and cheeks. It applies sheer for naturally flushed cheeks with a rosy hue, but as it is so concentrated, you have to be careful not to use too much or you will end up looking like a clown. Just a few drops on each cheek is all that is required, and be make sure to blend quick before it dries.

And this beautiful glow stays put all day long without fading or sliding. On your lips you can wear it on its own for a nice stain, or under your preferred lipstick of lipgloss for an even longer lasting finish.

RRP: $55 (12.5ml) – Available from Myer

 

Benefit Highbeam

 

This is a pale pink liquid highlighter with a nice pearlescent glow. It is perfect to use on the cheeks and under the brow bone, and anywhere else were you want a nice radiant glow.

Alternatively you can also wear it under your foundation or even mix a few drops into your foundation for an all-over lit from within glow.

RRP: $55 (12.5ml) – Available from Myer

 

Benefit The Porefessional*

 

As someone with combination skin prone to breakouts and large pores, I cannot rave enough about this primer. If you haven’t seen my previous review, you can see it here. This primer instantly helps minimize the appearance of pores and fine lines, leaving the skin feel and look more even. As a result my foundation slides on so much easier, and I need to use less to achieve an even result, and what’s even better is that it also helps make my makeup stay put for so much longer. I don’t know what I did before I discovered this primer!

RRP: $53 (22ml) – Available from Myer

 

Benefit They’re Real! Mascara

 

This mascara has won awards across the world, and no wonder. I don’t like false lashes. I can never put them on properly, they often fall off, and besides, I rarely have the time to apply them. So I rely on a good mascara. And as promised this mascara delivers lashes that look like you’re wearing falsies. It lengthens, curls, volumises, lifts and separates, all why staying put all day and not dropping any particles into my sensitive eyes.

And no clumping! It is easy to apply, and even just one coat will give you a nice look, while a few extra coats gives you a more dramatic length and volume. The plastic brush makes it easy to get to the root of your lashes while the little round ball with the spikes on the tip, makes it possible to get to even the tiniest of lashes.

RRP: $38 – Available from Myer

 

Benefit Hoola
 

How often do bronzing powders make you look like an orange oompa-loompa! Not with Hoola. The finely milled powder gives you a natural looking tan all year round, making it look like you’ve just come back from beach holiday.

It is long wearing and unlike most other bronzers, it has a matte finish with no sparkle or shine, and it is so easy to apply with the small soft brush that’s included, although I do prefer to use a long-shafted brush. It also works brilliantly as a contour powder.

RRP: $51 (8g) – Available from Myer

 

Benefit Rockateur*

 

In the midst of winter my face couldn’t get any paler and add to that a teething toddler that currently sleeps worse than a new born and I often look drained and tired. Enter Rockateur. This blush powder in rose with gold instantly gives my cheeks an amazing flushed look, that brings back glow and life to my face.

Thanks to the special formula featured baked, powder, cream and fluid, the blush is extremely pigmented, so it only takes the lightest of sweeps for a good colour pay off that simply stays put all day long. And thanks to the rose gold, it has a nice sheen, giving you just the right amount of glow without being over the top.

RRP: $51 (5g) – Available from Myer

 

Benefit Gimme Brow*

 

Decades ago thin brows were in. So mine got plucked. And plucked. And plucked. With the result that they today are a lot thinner than I like, so I rely on a good brow product. Gimme Brow is a brush-on fiber gel adheres to skin & hair instantly building up for a thicker brow and arches that looks so natural. The tapered brush makes it so quick and easy to apply and blend, while the precision tip makes shaping the brows a breeze.  

And thanks to the waterproof formula it is both smudge proof and very long-wearing. So while my brows now appear thin, at least thanks to Gimme Brow I can have thicker brows too.

RRP: $32 (3g) – Available from Myer

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

So there you go. These are my top picks from Benefit. But I can also honestly say that I to date have not tried a Benefit product I didn't like, and with such a large product range, there are heaps more of their products that I would so love to try..
 

Have you tried any of the products from Benefit? Which ones are your favourites?

 

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MY GOING OUT MAKEUP

I have earlier done a post about the makeup products I use for a casual outing, so I thought I’d follow up with one featuring some of the products I am currently reaching for when I am going out for more special occasions..

Laura Mercier Smooth Finish Foundation Powder*

 

Mothers Day Gift Ideas 2014 #2 - Beauty Buys under $20

Last week I did a post on Mother’s Day Gift Ideas, which you can see here, but I thought that I’d follow up with one with budget friendly gift ideas – and in this case, beautiful gifts you can give your mum for under $20..

 

 

MOR Marshmallow Duet
This gift pack that contains a Little Luxuries Hand Cream (50mL),and Little Luxuries Soapette (60g) in the delicious marshmallow scent.

RRP: $19.95 – Available from Myer

 

 

Benefit The Perfect Pair

This gift set contains mini bottles (2x4ml) of High Bean and Posie Tint. High Beam is a pearlised pink highlighter is the make-up artists secret for a natural dewy glow on all skin tones. Use it as a spot highlighter or blend all over your complexion...the soft-focus sheen is enticing and sexy.

Posie Tint is a petal-pink stain for a see-through tint on cheeks & lips. With hours of smudge-proof, just-picked perfection, you'll be the prettiest bloom in the bunch!

RRP: $19 – Available from Myer

 

Natio Caress Gift Set

This Mother’s Day skincare set comes with a limited-edition pink floral hat box, and contains a Lavender and Rosemary Hand and Nail Cream (75mL), Skin Nutrition Body Creme (150g) and Natio Nail Brush.

RRP: $19.95 – Available from Myer

 

 

NIVEA Pure & Natural Pack is a Mother’s Day gift pack

This gift set contains a Pure & Natural Body Lotion (400mL), Pure & Natural Lip Care Milk and Honey (4.8g), Pure & Natural Soothing Day Cream for Dry & Sensitive Skin (50mL) and a Pure & Natural Hand Cream (75mL).

RRP: $20 – Available from Chemist Warehouse

 

BioElixia Hand & Nail Duo Gift Set

This gift set that contains a Hand Revitalising Cream (30g) and a four way nail buffer to shape, shine, polish and buff the nails in four steps.

RRP: $16.95 – Available from BioElixia

 

 

Lush Strawberries and Cream

This Mother’s Day gift pack contains Sympathy for the Skin body lotion (100g), and Strawberry Feels Forever massage bar.

RRP: $18.95 – Available from Lush

 

Revlon Paradise Collection

This collection contains two Revlon Parfumerie Scented Nails in China Flower and Pink Pineapple. With notes of fruit and florals. Valued at $31.90 by Revlon.

RRP: $19.95 – Available from Myer

 

 

There you go – my selection of budget friendly beauty buys. What do you think of these? Any that you would consider giving to your Mum?