6 January 2019
PRODUCT REVIEW: SYNERGIE MINERALS MAKEUP
28 March 2017
PRODUCT REVIEW: MARY KAY GLOWING FINISH ILLUMINATING STICKS
Today its all about some limited edition glow sticks, Mary Kay Glowing Finish Illuminating Sticks. These glow sticks are inspired by medals and come in three options, Gold, Bronze and Silver, and with their sheer colour give the skin a shimmering accent and radiance.
The illuminating sticks come in a wind-up stick, that is easy to pop into the handbag, and they are easy to apply and blend. They can be used on any area you'd like to highlight, such as across the tops of cheeks or temples, on eyelids, shoulders or décolletage.
The thee different shades can be used for different things, so you can actually use them at the same time too, if you wish. T
The Bronze shade is the darkest of the three, and my favuorite, and it is a slightly dark orangey brown shade with golden shimmer, and this one can also be used as a blush, or to contour. The Silver is the palest shade and has a bit of a rose-gold tinge, and good for using on top of the cheek bones or as a highlighter anywhere you want sheen, while the Gold is a pale golden shade with golden fine glitter, and can be used where you’d like a more sun-kissed look. All three can also be used on the eyes, on their own or as a base.
The illuminating sticks come in a wind-up stick, that is easy to pop into the handbag, and they are easy to apply and blend. They can be used on any area you'd like to highlight, such as across the tops of cheeks or temples, on eyelids, shoulders or décolletage.
The thee different shades can be used for different things, so you can actually use them at the same time too, if you wish. T
The Bronze shade is the darkest of the three, and my favuorite, and it is a slightly dark orangey brown shade with golden shimmer, and this one can also be used as a blush, or to contour. The Silver is the palest shade and has a bit of a rose-gold tinge, and good for using on top of the cheek bones or as a highlighter anywhere you want sheen, while the Gold is a pale golden shade with golden fine glitter, and can be used where you’d like a more sun-kissed look. All three can also be used on the eyes, on their own or as a base.
 |
| L-R: Bronze, Gold, Silver |
The small sticks have a very lightweight creamy formula that is easy to apply and blend, without looking greasy on the skin - and you can simply swipe them on straight from the stick and blend with your fingers, or of course also apply with a brush.
I would have liked the silver stick to be more silver, and the bronze stick slightly darker, but overall, I really like these, and love the fact that they are so small and easy to use, and I also love that they come in three different colour options, so you can use it for so many things, as well as it means that there is something for every skin tone too.
Mary Kay Glowing Finish Illuminating Sticks
Available from Mary Kay
* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
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I would have liked the silver stick to be more silver, and the bronze stick slightly darker, but overall, I really like these, and love the fact that they are so small and easy to use, and I also love that they come in three different colour options, so you can use it for so many things, as well as it means that there is something for every skin tone too.
Mary Kay Glowing Finish Illuminating Sticks
Available from Mary Kay
* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
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8 February 2017
QUICK EVERYDAY MAKEUP - WITH JANE IREDALE DREAM TINT, PHYSICIANS FORMULA, MAX FACTOR, CLARINS, SCOUT, RIMMEL, L'OREAL, ERE PEREZ
With a toddler running around my legs, these days it is rare that I have much more than 5-10 minutes or so to do my makeup before my little boy has pulled everything out from the bathroom cabinets. So most I rely on products which will allow me to apply my makeup quickly. Here are my current picks;
I use a tinted moisturiser, the Dream Tint from Jane Iredale which gives me a lovely even skin tone and a lovely dewy matte look with a lovely glow all while still looking very natural. It is very moisturising, so on hot and humid summer days I don’t even need to apply a moisturiser first (but I’d never skip my serum!), and as it also comes with SPF15, that side is covered too! (I have previously reviewed this Dream Tint and you can see my full review here!)
I then use the Physicians Formula Bronze Booster, which works to both contour the face, and add a touch of a bronze healthy look to my face (and if I feel like it, to my décolleté and shoulders as well!). The palette contains two bronze shades so depending on my mood I can either use both of them together, or even separately. The bronzer also has a touch of golden shimmer, adding a touch glow to my face.
If I have time, I like to add a touch of highlighter to the top of my cheek bones – it simply adds a touch of glow and life to my dull tired face. And this Mineral Illuminser from Scout Cosmetics is my current go to product. It is made from natural minerals it adds such a lovely natural and healthy glow, all without being too shimmery or glittery. (RRP: $44.95)
On my cheeks I love using the Ere Perez Cheek and Lip Balm in Holy. In the compact it looks to be a dark berry shade, but once on the cheeks it has a lovely sheer velvety finish that is so natural as if you’ve just pinched your cheeks! And if I want a darker effect, I simply just add a little more. It is quick and easy to apply with your fingers, and any remains you can simply wipe over your lips for a lovely stain, although I do love applying it with the incredibly soft Ere Perez Multipurpose Brush that is perfect blending for all creamy products. RRP: $32.95)
On my eyes I use the Wild Shadow Pots from Max Factor in either Savage Rose, Auburn Envy, or Burnt Bark. These eye shadows are very pigmented, and just a quick wipe is all it takes for a casual everyday look. I often just use one colour on its own, but if I do have a little more time, combine two or three of them.
To line my eyes I use the Super Liner Silkissme from L’Oreal Paris. The black eyeliner, glides on smoothly and easily, without any pulling or dragging. It gives an intense look with a nice shine that lasts all days, even when my eyes are watering. (RRP: $22.95) Above the lash line, I currently like using the Instant Liner from Clains. This eyeliner makes it so easy to draw a precise and fine line, while providing intense pigment that simply doesn’t budge or fade during the day.
And of course I cannot skip mascara, and my current pick is the Scandal Eyes Rockin’ Curves from Rimmel London. The large curved brush on this mascara makes it so easy to get to even the smallest of lashes, evenly coating them, and giving them both volume and length as well as a nice curl. No lash curler needed! (RRP: $16.95)
Next is the pout, as of curse you cannot skip the lips. And like most others I really love the crayon style lipsticks and balms, and my current picks are the Lip Perfection Jumbo Gloss Balms from Covergirl as they are just so easy to apply also on the go later in the day thanks to the twist-up pen. I love shade Mauve Twist, which is a lovely dark nude mauve shade, or Berry Twist when I feel like something a little bolder as it is a brighter fuchsia pink shade. The both go on sheer, although you can build up the colour, all while still leaving a nice glossy shine to the lips. And they double as lip balms too, as they are so moisturising on the lips containing both shea and mango butter. (RRP: $12.95)
Unless I’ve already run out of time, I also prefer doing my brows before I run out the door. They are victims of serial over-plucking so a little help from the Colour Riche Eye Brow Pencil from L’Oreal is needed. With this pencil it is so quick and easy to fill in any gaps to define the brows, while the convenient brush at the other end helps style them into place! (RRP: $22.95)
So there you go, my current picks of products that are so quick and easy to use when you are in a hurry, but still want to apply your makeup..
Tried any of these products? Which products do you reach for when you are in a hurry?
*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
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I use a tinted moisturiser, the Dream Tint from Jane Iredale which gives me a lovely even skin tone and a lovely dewy matte look with a lovely glow all while still looking very natural. It is very moisturising, so on hot and humid summer days I don’t even need to apply a moisturiser first (but I’d never skip my serum!), and as it also comes with SPF15, that side is covered too! (I have previously reviewed this Dream Tint and you can see my full review here!)
I then use the Physicians Formula Bronze Booster, which works to both contour the face, and add a touch of a bronze healthy look to my face (and if I feel like it, to my décolleté and shoulders as well!). The palette contains two bronze shades so depending on my mood I can either use both of them together, or even separately. The bronzer also has a touch of golden shimmer, adding a touch glow to my face.
If I have time, I like to add a touch of highlighter to the top of my cheek bones – it simply adds a touch of glow and life to my dull tired face. And this Mineral Illuminser from Scout Cosmetics is my current go to product. It is made from natural minerals it adds such a lovely natural and healthy glow, all without being too shimmery or glittery. (RRP: $44.95)
On my cheeks I love using the Ere Perez Cheek and Lip Balm in Holy. In the compact it looks to be a dark berry shade, but once on the cheeks it has a lovely sheer velvety finish that is so natural as if you’ve just pinched your cheeks! And if I want a darker effect, I simply just add a little more. It is quick and easy to apply with your fingers, and any remains you can simply wipe over your lips for a lovely stain, although I do love applying it with the incredibly soft Ere Perez Multipurpose Brush that is perfect blending for all creamy products. RRP: $32.95)
On my eyes I use the Wild Shadow Pots from Max Factor in either Savage Rose, Auburn Envy, or Burnt Bark. These eye shadows are very pigmented, and just a quick wipe is all it takes for a casual everyday look. I often just use one colour on its own, but if I do have a little more time, combine two or three of them.
To line my eyes I use the Super Liner Silkissme from L’Oreal Paris. The black eyeliner, glides on smoothly and easily, without any pulling or dragging. It gives an intense look with a nice shine that lasts all days, even when my eyes are watering. (RRP: $22.95) Above the lash line, I currently like using the Instant Liner from Clains. This eyeliner makes it so easy to draw a precise and fine line, while providing intense pigment that simply doesn’t budge or fade during the day.
And of course I cannot skip mascara, and my current pick is the Scandal Eyes Rockin’ Curves from Rimmel London. The large curved brush on this mascara makes it so easy to get to even the smallest of lashes, evenly coating them, and giving them both volume and length as well as a nice curl. No lash curler needed! (RRP: $16.95)
Next is the pout, as of curse you cannot skip the lips. And like most others I really love the crayon style lipsticks and balms, and my current picks are the Lip Perfection Jumbo Gloss Balms from Covergirl as they are just so easy to apply also on the go later in the day thanks to the twist-up pen. I love shade Mauve Twist, which is a lovely dark nude mauve shade, or Berry Twist when I feel like something a little bolder as it is a brighter fuchsia pink shade. The both go on sheer, although you can build up the colour, all while still leaving a nice glossy shine to the lips. And they double as lip balms too, as they are so moisturising on the lips containing both shea and mango butter. (RRP: $12.95)
Unless I’ve already run out of time, I also prefer doing my brows before I run out the door. They are victims of serial over-plucking so a little help from the Colour Riche Eye Brow Pencil from L’Oreal is needed. With this pencil it is so quick and easy to fill in any gaps to define the brows, while the convenient brush at the other end helps style them into place! (RRP: $22.95)
So there you go, my current picks of products that are so quick and easy to use when you are in a hurry, but still want to apply your makeup..
Tried any of these products? Which products do you reach for when you are in a hurry?
*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
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28 January 2017
PRODUCT REVIEW: THE ORGANIC SKIN CO
Today I’d like to talk about The Organic Skin Co, which is a makeup line produced for World Organic, a family run company from New Zealand. And what I really love about this range, is that the products are made using natural ingredients where possible. Today I am putting a selection of products to the test…
The Organic Skin Co Sun Kissed Bronzer is a BB Bronzing cream that gives the skin a light, natural suntanned look with a nice healthy glow. The actual cream is like a bronze glittery cream and it is full of light-reflecting mica and mineral pearls that give the skin the glowing radiance. On its own it doesn’t give the skin much coverage, so I find it is best used on top of your usual foundation on certain areas of the face and décolleté, as if used all over, I find that it can be a little too much. It is also very concentrated, so again, you only need to use the tiniest amount, but thanks to the nifty pump bottle, it is easy to dispense even a very small amount. It has a beautiful scent of orange. It is made from 71.43% organic ingredients.
Then there's The Organic Skin Co Botanical Loose Mineral Foundation, which is a loose mineral powder foundation has been infused with botanicals including calendula and pomegranate to help regenerate and nourish the skin, as well as it includes kaolin clay that helps draw out impurities and absorb surface oils. The foundation is best applied with a large brush such as a kabuki brush. It only gives the skin a very light coverage, although you can build it up slightly where needed, while still looking very natural and soft look, and far from cakey or powdery like many other powder foundations. And it really does stay put all day, without settling into my fine lines and without the dreaded mid-afternoon, so no doubt the added kaolin clay does prove beneficial. In saying that, I would have loved it to have a slightly better coverage to cover my increasing pigmentation, and old acne scarring, so consequently I have instead been enjoying using it on top of the Luminous Foundation, which works wonders, and when applied first thing in the morning, it makes the foundation stay shine free all day too. Made from pure minerals and botanicals.
The Organic Skin Co Cream Blush, is a soft cream that is so quick and easy to use. You simply dab your finger tip into the jar and blend it into the apples of your cheeks for a natural flushed look, but while being cautious not to apply too much as it is quite pigmented. The cream blush help give your cheeks a natural radiant finish at the same time. I tried the shade Lotus, which is a rich berry shade, that in the pot looks quite large, but once blended onto the cheeks, it gives a natural pink look. The cream blush wears quite well during the day, without sliding or fading too much. I also found that the cream blush worked quite well as a lip stain, so you can simply wipe off any excess from your fingers onto your lips. And it feels quite comfortable to wear on the lips too, although the wear is naturally shorter. Made with 73% organic ingredients.
The Organic Skin Co Rose Gold Luminizer is a buildable organic luminizer and sheer highlighter with a translucent, satin-pearl finish of flattering rose-gold tones, that has just the right amount of sheen without being over the top or too glittery. The soft cream is easy to apply, and I find it easiest when using my fingers. It can be used on the top of your cheeks, under the eye brows or even top of the cupids bow to highlight and add sheen. Or you can even use it a an eye shadow, either as a base, or on its own. It has been made with 73.8% Organic Ingredients.
Next up is The Organic Skin Co Pressed Eye Shadow is a 100% natural eye shadow made from pure minerals and extracts. I tried the shade Sable, which is a matte chocolate brown shade, which is quite stunning, especially when paired with a lighter shade. The eye shadow has a soft and smooth consistency, and is easy to apply with an eyeshadow brush, with minimal fallout, and it is quite pigmented so that you can build up the colour to be quite intense, especially if you apply it with a slightly damp brush, and used with a primer first, it do have a good wear too, without fading or settling into fine lines.
Finally, The Organic Skin Co Lipsticks are 100% natural lipsticks which have been made with 70% organic ingredients, including carnauba wax to help protect the lips. The lipsticks are soft and creamy, and feel very nourishing and moisturising on the lips. I've got the shades Summer Sands, soft pale pink, with a touch of shimmery sheen, that leaves a barely there nude shade, as well as the shade Sahara, a warm red shade, again with a touch of subtle shimmer. Of the two, I prefer Sahara, simply because I'm just more into slightly bolder lips, feeling a tad washed out when I wear very pale lipsticks. The Sahara has the longest wear of the two, thanks to being a little darker and hence more pigmented.
All the Organic Skin Co makeup products come in stunning packaging featuring dark brown plastic bottles and jars that are so heavy duty that you could mistake them for being made of glass. But what’s even more unique is that they are all featuring bamboo lids, which make then look absolutely stunning – and very appropriate for the natural and organic products.
Overall, I am really enjoying using all the products that I’ve tried as they are all lovely, but if I had to select a few favourites, it would have to be the Botanical Loose Mineral Foundation, the Cream blush, the Eyeshadow Palette and the Lipstick. – But in saying that I wouldn’t hesitate purchasing either of the products again or try some of the other products from the range, which also includes a lip gloss, individual eye shadows, and a liquid eyeliner.
The Organic Skin Co Sun Kissed Bronzer - $56 / 30ml
The Organic Skin Co Botanical Loose Mineral Foundation - $46 / 6.5g
The Organic Skin Co Cream Blush - RRP: $35 / 3ml
The Organic Skin Co Rose Gold Luminizer - $28 / 5ml
The Organic Skin Co Pressed Eye Shadow - RRP: $34 / 4g
The Organic Skin Co Lipstick - RRP: $31 / 4.3g
Available from World Organic
* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
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26 January 2017
4 April 2016
PRODUCT REVIEW: SISLEY PARIS SPRING / SUMMER COLLECTION 2015
A few months back while I was still at the hospital Sisley Paris launched their new spring / summer 2015 collection, and I had big intentions of writing about these new products. But the sheer stress of such a sick baby meant that although I really tried whenever I had a few spare minutes as it was a great way of distracting myself, I just count concentrate. So hence the delay, so with further ado, the Sisley Paris Spring / Summer Collection...
This Sisley makeup collection has been inspired by the bright colours of an Indian Summer - and as it is now in fact autumn here, and I've sadly missed basically spring all together being 'locked' up at the hospital, here's hoping that summer will in fact kick on a little longer this year and we will get a so called Indian Summer.
The collection contains among others the Phyto-Touche Illuminator, Phyto-Ombre Eclat, Phyto-Mascara Ultra Stretch, So intense Fortifying Eyeliner, and Phyto-Lip Shine in Sheer Peach..
The Sisley Phyto-Touche Illuminator is a sun glow gel-powder that both illuminates and unifies the complexion while giving it a nice glow as if you've just come back from a relaxing beach holiday. The powder is so finely milled and the pigments of such a high quality that a small sweep is all it takes for a natural looking sun-kissed glow. And the shade is just perfect on my medium beige skin. And what's more is that it feels so beautiful on the skin, or that is, you can hardly tell its there. Perfect for sweeping over cheekbones as well as décolleté and shoulders. It contains among others extracts of gardenia and wood mallow to soften and protect the skin while linden blossom protects the skin. It comes in the most stunning silver compact with a mirror inside the lid and it has the most gorgeous design. This may be designed for summer, but personally I'll be using it throughout winter too to hang on to a touch of summer glow!
The Sisley Phyto-Ombre Eclat is a mono eyeshadow that is available in a massive 20 different shades and finishes. The eye shadows have been enriched with extracts of green tea, white lily, and camelia to protect and soften the delicate epidermis of the eyelids, and of course they are so gentle that they can be used even by those with sensitive skin or wearers of contact lenses.
The shade Mango is a warm luminous peach shade that adds warmth to the skin, and it looks amazing on its own for a quick simple look, but is equally beautiful when layered with other colours, either toned down for a day-time look or with darker shades for a more intense evening look. The shadows can be used both dry or wet, where you will achieve a more intense result when using it wet. Personally I usually use it dry and on its own - but that for the simple reason that I've got two little boys that keeps me busy, and secondly, these boys usually means that nights are spent on the couch, so its all about simple and casual day-time wear for me. The eye shadow is so soft and easy to apply and as I do have sensitive eyes I love that there is next to no fall out that can irritate my eyes. And a quick sweep is enough to give my lids the desired touch of colour that stays put all day without fading, sliding or settling into fine lines or creases. I love this and will definitely have to add a few more shades to make it a collection!
This Sisley Phyto-Mascara Stretch is designed to longer curled lashes, without wearing them down, or making them look clumpy. In fact, the large brush easily cover even the shortest of lashes and quickly separates them for an even look. And it does so all while strengthening and protecting the lashes thanks to containing ingredients such as rice phytoceramides, which strengthens the lash structure and makes the lashes more resistant, pro-vitamin B5 to leave the lashes smooth and subtle, as well as natural waxes, castor plant and wheat proteins to lengthen, separate, restore suppleness and smooth the lashes. And while the mascara doesn't claim to be waterproof, it stays put all day, without flaking, running or smudging, even on my sensitive eyes that easily water throughout the day. Unlike other mascaras which usually clump the lashes together as you end up over-applying, almost until the mascara is empty, I love that this Phyto-Mascara is perfect from the very first use, leaving my lashes clearly longer and with a touch of a curl (although a lash curler is still needed for full curl) which is more than sufficient for my daily need - and without my lashes feel stiff or dry, rather they've got a beautiful black glossy sheen. At $75 this is not a cheap mascara, but I do enjoy using it on my sensitive eyes, and love the fact that it cares for and treats my lashes at the same time.
The Sisley Phyto-Lip Shine is no ordinary lipstick. Rather it is a treatment lipstick that contains among others kokum and mango butters to help hydrate, protect and provide comfort for the lips while sheer polymers create a smoothing and plumping effect for the lips. And the lipstick really to feel incredible on the lips. It is so soft and creamy that it feels more like a lip balm than a lipstick. The shade Sheer Peach is as the name suggest a pale peach shade that adds the most delicate shimmery pale peach shade to your lips. The shade is a little paler than I would usually pick, but that said, is such a beautiful shade that is perfect for those 'no makeup' days to use in stead of said lipbalm, or when you simply want to play down your lips. Being such a pale shade, the actual tint doesn't seem to last as long as the darker shades from the range (there are massive 16 colours available), but even when it has worn off, the lips feel so soft and moisturised. As with other Sisley products I love that this is not just an ordinary lipstick, but a little more thought and care has been put into it so that it actually also cares and treats your lips while you wear it. A must try product!
I always wear liquid eyeliner and has for as long as I can remember, and have over the years come across quite a few amazing eyeliners. But this Sisley So Intense Eyeliner has instantly jumped to the top of the list! The felt tip makes it incredibly easy to draw a line, be it thin or thick, and with an intense black matte finish that dries within seconds. And it stays put all day without fading, smudging or flaking. I also love that the eye liner has been enriched with wild rose, gardenia and cornflower extracts, which combine will help protect your lashes while soothing the skin and ensure eyelids do not dry out. But what's more, is that it also contains arginine which provides nutrients to the lashes to help them grow optimally. This is without a doubt the most expensive eyeliner that I've ever tried or used, and frankly I doubted that it could be worth the extra spend - but I have to say that it really is so incredibly easy to reply, and I love the fact that it not only wears and looks great, it combines skincare benefits too, which makes it worth every cent!
Sisley Phyto-Touche Illuminator RRP: $120
Sisley Phyto-Ombre Eclat RRP: $55
Sisley Phyto-Mascara Ultra Stretch $70
Sisley Phyto-Lip Shine RRP: 50
Sisley So Intense Fortifying Eyeliner RRP: $72
Available from David Jones and Sisley Counters and Sisley Paris Online
This Sisley makeup collection has been inspired by the bright colours of an Indian Summer - and as it is now in fact autumn here, and I've sadly missed basically spring all together being 'locked' up at the hospital, here's hoping that summer will in fact kick on a little longer this year and we will get a so called Indian Summer.
The collection contains among others the Phyto-Touche Illuminator, Phyto-Ombre Eclat, Phyto-Mascara Ultra Stretch, So intense Fortifying Eyeliner, and Phyto-Lip Shine in Sheer Peach..
The Sisley Phyto-Touche Illuminator is a sun glow gel-powder that both illuminates and unifies the complexion while giving it a nice glow as if you've just come back from a relaxing beach holiday. The powder is so finely milled and the pigments of such a high quality that a small sweep is all it takes for a natural looking sun-kissed glow. And the shade is just perfect on my medium beige skin. And what's more is that it feels so beautiful on the skin, or that is, you can hardly tell its there. Perfect for sweeping over cheekbones as well as décolleté and shoulders. It contains among others extracts of gardenia and wood mallow to soften and protect the skin while linden blossom protects the skin. It comes in the most stunning silver compact with a mirror inside the lid and it has the most gorgeous design. This may be designed for summer, but personally I'll be using it throughout winter too to hang on to a touch of summer glow!
The Sisley Phyto-Ombre Eclat is a mono eyeshadow that is available in a massive 20 different shades and finishes. The eye shadows have been enriched with extracts of green tea, white lily, and camelia to protect and soften the delicate epidermis of the eyelids, and of course they are so gentle that they can be used even by those with sensitive skin or wearers of contact lenses.
The shade Mango is a warm luminous peach shade that adds warmth to the skin, and it looks amazing on its own for a quick simple look, but is equally beautiful when layered with other colours, either toned down for a day-time look or with darker shades for a more intense evening look. The shadows can be used both dry or wet, where you will achieve a more intense result when using it wet. Personally I usually use it dry and on its own - but that for the simple reason that I've got two little boys that keeps me busy, and secondly, these boys usually means that nights are spent on the couch, so its all about simple and casual day-time wear for me. The eye shadow is so soft and easy to apply and as I do have sensitive eyes I love that there is next to no fall out that can irritate my eyes. And a quick sweep is enough to give my lids the desired touch of colour that stays put all day without fading, sliding or settling into fine lines or creases. I love this and will definitely have to add a few more shades to make it a collection!
This Sisley Phyto-Mascara Stretch is designed to longer curled lashes, without wearing them down, or making them look clumpy. In fact, the large brush easily cover even the shortest of lashes and quickly separates them for an even look. And it does so all while strengthening and protecting the lashes thanks to containing ingredients such as rice phytoceramides, which strengthens the lash structure and makes the lashes more resistant, pro-vitamin B5 to leave the lashes smooth and subtle, as well as natural waxes, castor plant and wheat proteins to lengthen, separate, restore suppleness and smooth the lashes. And while the mascara doesn't claim to be waterproof, it stays put all day, without flaking, running or smudging, even on my sensitive eyes that easily water throughout the day. Unlike other mascaras which usually clump the lashes together as you end up over-applying, almost until the mascara is empty, I love that this Phyto-Mascara is perfect from the very first use, leaving my lashes clearly longer and with a touch of a curl (although a lash curler is still needed for full curl) which is more than sufficient for my daily need - and without my lashes feel stiff or dry, rather they've got a beautiful black glossy sheen. At $75 this is not a cheap mascara, but I do enjoy using it on my sensitive eyes, and love the fact that it cares for and treats my lashes at the same time.
The Sisley Phyto-Lip Shine is no ordinary lipstick. Rather it is a treatment lipstick that contains among others kokum and mango butters to help hydrate, protect and provide comfort for the lips while sheer polymers create a smoothing and plumping effect for the lips. And the lipstick really to feel incredible on the lips. It is so soft and creamy that it feels more like a lip balm than a lipstick. The shade Sheer Peach is as the name suggest a pale peach shade that adds the most delicate shimmery pale peach shade to your lips. The shade is a little paler than I would usually pick, but that said, is such a beautiful shade that is perfect for those 'no makeup' days to use in stead of said lipbalm, or when you simply want to play down your lips. Being such a pale shade, the actual tint doesn't seem to last as long as the darker shades from the range (there are massive 16 colours available), but even when it has worn off, the lips feel so soft and moisturised. As with other Sisley products I love that this is not just an ordinary lipstick, but a little more thought and care has been put into it so that it actually also cares and treats your lips while you wear it. A must try product!
I always wear liquid eyeliner and has for as long as I can remember, and have over the years come across quite a few amazing eyeliners. But this Sisley So Intense Eyeliner has instantly jumped to the top of the list! The felt tip makes it incredibly easy to draw a line, be it thin or thick, and with an intense black matte finish that dries within seconds. And it stays put all day without fading, smudging or flaking. I also love that the eye liner has been enriched with wild rose, gardenia and cornflower extracts, which combine will help protect your lashes while soothing the skin and ensure eyelids do not dry out. But what's more, is that it also contains arginine which provides nutrients to the lashes to help them grow optimally. This is without a doubt the most expensive eyeliner that I've ever tried or used, and frankly I doubted that it could be worth the extra spend - but I have to say that it really is so incredibly easy to reply, and I love the fact that it not only wears and looks great, it combines skincare benefits too, which makes it worth every cent!
Sisley Phyto-Touche Illuminator RRP: $120
Sisley Phyto-Ombre Eclat RRP: $55
Sisley Phyto-Mascara Ultra Stretch $70
Sisley Phyto-Lip Shine RRP: 50
Sisley So Intense Fortifying Eyeliner RRP: $72
Available from David Jones and Sisley Counters and Sisley Paris Online
* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
18 December 2015
LANCOME ABSOLUE PRECIOUS CELLS WHITE AURA MIRACLE ILLUMINATING FINISHER FROM ACTIVESKIN
Some time you come across a beauty product that’s completely out of this world, and one of those is the Lancôme Absolue Precious Cells White Aura Miracle Illuminating Finisher, which is available from ActiveSkin
“This cream has been developed by Lancôme after 20 years of research on skin stem cells, cells are gifted with an ability to restore and maintain youthfulness, Lancôme has created Aura Miracle Illuminating Finisher, which is the last step in your skincare routine, and which has been specifically developed to sublimate skin’s radiance. The white rose extract is for the first time associated ti Pro-Xylane, in a luminous and sublimating fluid, to deliver instant results and a skin that looks smoothed out, re-texturised, for a perfect luminous and velvety finish. Skin is gifted with an aura of light!”
This sounds pretty magical, doesn’t it. In short, basically a cream that helps work on the skin’s dark spots, for a more even skin tone, all while smoothing out the skin and giving it a nice luminous and soft finish.
Sometimes big words like that, are just that. Nothing but marketing fluff. And I should know, with my Post Grad in Marketing- but I have to say that I am nothing short of impressed.
Admitted, my skin is particularly dull and tired looking at the moment as months of poor sleep and immense stress has certainly taken its toll and is clearly showing. But regardless, this cream does instantly blur any uneven skin tone and pigmentation and make the skin look so radiant with this lit-from-within glow. Almost like you’ve just had the best beauty sleep of your life – and as if that’s going to happen for me the next decade with a baby and a toddler!! But the effects are not just instant, the cream also moisturises the skin around the clock, and offers long-term anti-ageing and whitening benefits. I’ve only used the cream a short period, so I cannot vouch for the long-term benefits, but what I can say is that I’m so loving how it instantly makes my skin feel and look.
The cream is used on top of your other serums and moisturisers, and it is silky soft and instantly absorbs into the skin. And you can simply leave it at that for that natural fresh looking glow, or you can of course apply your makeup as per usual, and then the makeup applies to smoothly, so it works perfectly as a primer too! And before I forget, it also has the most divine scent
Now, as you’d probably guessed, it sadly doesn’t come cheap. It has an RRP of $185 (30ml), and is available from ActiveSkin here.
Worth the hefty price tag – again, at this point I cannot comment on the long-term which is obviously why you’d purchase such an expensive cream. But given the research that has gone into this cream, and how incredible and glowing it instantly makes the skin feel and look, it is simply so luxurious, that I have no doubt that it will also deliver permanent results with ongoing use.
So if you like me want to look like you’ve had a good night’s sleep or want to look extra luminous and glowing for a special occasion, such as weddings, Xmas and New Year’s parties, or simply just want to spoil yourself, then this Absolue Precious Cells White Aura Miracle Illuminating Finisher from Lancôme is definitely recommended.
About ActiveSkin – if you are not familiar with ActiveSkin, they are an online beauty store stocking over 5000 products. They have a low shipping rate of $6.95, but do offer free shipping when you spend over $95. You can also shop with ActiveSkin confidence as they not only match a competitor’s price, they will beat their prices by 10% of the difference. They also have a cool rewards system where you accumulate points which can be redeemed against future purchases. And if you need a little help selecting products, you can always just give them a call and a Qualified Skin Expert is there to give you advice.
* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
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“This cream has been developed by Lancôme after 20 years of research on skin stem cells, cells are gifted with an ability to restore and maintain youthfulness, Lancôme has created Aura Miracle Illuminating Finisher, which is the last step in your skincare routine, and which has been specifically developed to sublimate skin’s radiance. The white rose extract is for the first time associated ti Pro-Xylane, in a luminous and sublimating fluid, to deliver instant results and a skin that looks smoothed out, re-texturised, for a perfect luminous and velvety finish. Skin is gifted with an aura of light!”
This sounds pretty magical, doesn’t it. In short, basically a cream that helps work on the skin’s dark spots, for a more even skin tone, all while smoothing out the skin and giving it a nice luminous and soft finish.
Sometimes big words like that, are just that. Nothing but marketing fluff. And I should know, with my Post Grad in Marketing- but I have to say that I am nothing short of impressed.
Admitted, my skin is particularly dull and tired looking at the moment as months of poor sleep and immense stress has certainly taken its toll and is clearly showing. But regardless, this cream does instantly blur any uneven skin tone and pigmentation and make the skin look so radiant with this lit-from-within glow. Almost like you’ve just had the best beauty sleep of your life – and as if that’s going to happen for me the next decade with a baby and a toddler!! But the effects are not just instant, the cream also moisturises the skin around the clock, and offers long-term anti-ageing and whitening benefits. I’ve only used the cream a short period, so I cannot vouch for the long-term benefits, but what I can say is that I’m so loving how it instantly makes my skin feel and look.
The cream is used on top of your other serums and moisturisers, and it is silky soft and instantly absorbs into the skin. And you can simply leave it at that for that natural fresh looking glow, or you can of course apply your makeup as per usual, and then the makeup applies to smoothly, so it works perfectly as a primer too! And before I forget, it also has the most divine scent
Now, as you’d probably guessed, it sadly doesn’t come cheap. It has an RRP of $185 (30ml), and is available from ActiveSkin here.
Worth the hefty price tag – again, at this point I cannot comment on the long-term which is obviously why you’d purchase such an expensive cream. But given the research that has gone into this cream, and how incredible and glowing it instantly makes the skin feel and look, it is simply so luxurious, that I have no doubt that it will also deliver permanent results with ongoing use.
So if you like me want to look like you’ve had a good night’s sleep or want to look extra luminous and glowing for a special occasion, such as weddings, Xmas and New Year’s parties, or simply just want to spoil yourself, then this Absolue Precious Cells White Aura Miracle Illuminating Finisher from Lancôme is definitely recommended.
About ActiveSkin – if you are not familiar with ActiveSkin, they are an online beauty store stocking over 5000 products. They have a low shipping rate of $6.95, but do offer free shipping when you spend over $95. You can also shop with ActiveSkin confidence as they not only match a competitor’s price, they will beat their prices by 10% of the difference. They also have a cool rewards system where you accumulate points which can be redeemed against future purchases. And if you need a little help selecting products, you can always just give them a call and a Qualified Skin Expert is there to give you advice.
* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
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27 January 2015
BRAND FOCUS: BOE PROFESSIONAL
Today I would like to put focus on a relatively new Australian Brand, BOE Professional. BOE Cosmetics has been around for a while, selling makeup at the variety store Big W for a meagre $2 – and well recently, the company launched a more up-market range, called BOE Professional*, here are my thoughts;
BOE Professional Base Primer
With combination skin I rely on a good primer when I want my makeup to last. The BOE Professional Base Primer has white creamy texture, and containing squalene, sweet almond oil and aloe vera, it hydrates and conditions the skin at the same time as it helps make your makeup stay looking nicer for longer. It is very lightweight and leaves a nice feel on the skin. Worn after moisturiser but before foundation, the Primer helps to absorb any excess oil in the skin, while also blurring the appearance of blemishes and imperfections so that your makeup applies not only more easily, but you also end up with a more even and flawless. RRP: $9.95 (25ml) – Available from Big W
BOE Professional BB Cream and Concealer
This is a true multi-tasking product, as a BB Cream with a built-in Concealer in the cap, and it even has a small mirror too! Absolutely brilliant! The BB Cream contains among others aloe vera, vitamin E, shea butter and vitamin E and helps hydrate and condition the skin. It gives the skin a medium coverage, while still leaving the skin with a nice natural finish and a lovely glow.
And while you can still build up the coverage by adding a touch more, I still feel that it is not fully covering larger areas of redness, pigmentation, blemishes or bags under my eyes, and that’s where the in-build concealer comes in handy. The Concealer is very creamy , and has a great coverage, picking up where the BB Cream stopped. Both lasts well on the skin throughout the day, although my skin does get a bit shiny by midday, but that’s where the Finishing Powder comes to the rescue! RRP: $12.95 (35ml)/ (1.2g) – Available from Big W
BOE Professional High Definition Finishing Powder
Having combination skin I always struggle to get my makeup to stay put, and in particularly during summer, so I love transparent setting powders. This powder is super-fine and finishes your makeup, mattifying your skin and absorbing surface oil, and hence extending the life of your makeup, making your skin look shine-free for longer – and instead leaves you with a nice demi-matte look. And as the powder is translucent it doesn’t add any extra coverage, so it is perfect to use on top of all types of foundation from tinted moisturisers, BB creams and even full coverage foundations, or even on bare skin! It comes in a clear plastic jar with a black lid, and is best applied with a large powder brush. RRP: $9.95 (15g) – Available from Big W
BOE Professional Radiant Face Illuminator
With a teething toddler I rarely get a good nights sleep these days, and that’s where using a highlighter can make all the difference. The Radiant Face Illuminator has a creamy texture and the beige-white pearlescent tint gives dull skin a nice luminous and radiant glow, without making it too over the top shimmery. You can use it on its own, or you can mix it into your usual foundation, and apply too your cheekbones, cupids bow and anywhere else you’d like to highlight. It is very concentrated, so you only need to use a little, so the tube will last you forever. RRP: $9.95 (25ml) – Available from Big W
BOE Professional Big Kiss Lip Gloss
This lip gloss has a larger than normal wand applicator, that you at first think surely is too big, but it makes it surprisingly easy to apply the gloss to your lips. The lipgloss has a nice consistency and adds intense colour to the lips with a nice shine, and it has a reasonable wear of a few hours, although you do have to reapply after eating.
BOE Professional Perfect Pout Lip Cream
The lip cream is almost like a lipstick in a tube form, that also comes with a foot doe applicator. It is soft and creamy, and leaves a nice colour on the lips, which you can both build up or apply more sheer, depending on preference, all while leaving your lips with a semi-matte finish. The lip cream lasts fairly well on the lips, (although now as well as the Big Kiss Lipgloss) and it contains vitamin E, so again, it feels lovely and moisturising on the lips. Available in four shades. RRP: $6.95 (15ml) – Available from Big W
Overall, I really like these products from BOE Professional, and I am surprised at their high quality considering their affordable prices. Of the products I tried, the stand-outs were the definitely the Finishing Powder, the BB Cream and Concealer and the Big Kiss Lipgloss, although I would not hesitate to repurchase any of the products again – as well as I plan to check out the rest of the range when I am next near a Big W store, I especially got my eyes on the Eye Bright Pen, the Blush Duo, the Full Coverage Concealer, and the Eyeshadow Quads..
*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
Have you tried any of the products from the BOE Professional range? What did you think of the products?
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BOE Professional Base Primer
With combination skin I rely on a good primer when I want my makeup to last. The BOE Professional Base Primer has white creamy texture, and containing squalene, sweet almond oil and aloe vera, it hydrates and conditions the skin at the same time as it helps make your makeup stay looking nicer for longer. It is very lightweight and leaves a nice feel on the skin. Worn after moisturiser but before foundation, the Primer helps to absorb any excess oil in the skin, while also blurring the appearance of blemishes and imperfections so that your makeup applies not only more easily, but you also end up with a more even and flawless. RRP: $9.95 (25ml) – Available from Big W
BOE Professional BB Cream and Concealer
This is a true multi-tasking product, as a BB Cream with a built-in Concealer in the cap, and it even has a small mirror too! Absolutely brilliant! The BB Cream contains among others aloe vera, vitamin E, shea butter and vitamin E and helps hydrate and condition the skin. It gives the skin a medium coverage, while still leaving the skin with a nice natural finish and a lovely glow.
And while you can still build up the coverage by adding a touch more, I still feel that it is not fully covering larger areas of redness, pigmentation, blemishes or bags under my eyes, and that’s where the in-build concealer comes in handy. The Concealer is very creamy , and has a great coverage, picking up where the BB Cream stopped. Both lasts well on the skin throughout the day, although my skin does get a bit shiny by midday, but that’s where the Finishing Powder comes to the rescue! RRP: $12.95 (35ml)/ (1.2g) – Available from Big W
BOE Professional High Definition Finishing Powder
Having combination skin I always struggle to get my makeup to stay put, and in particularly during summer, so I love transparent setting powders. This powder is super-fine and finishes your makeup, mattifying your skin and absorbing surface oil, and hence extending the life of your makeup, making your skin look shine-free for longer – and instead leaves you with a nice demi-matte look. And as the powder is translucent it doesn’t add any extra coverage, so it is perfect to use on top of all types of foundation from tinted moisturisers, BB creams and even full coverage foundations, or even on bare skin! It comes in a clear plastic jar with a black lid, and is best applied with a large powder brush. RRP: $9.95 (15g) – Available from Big W
BOE Professional Radiant Face Illuminator
With a teething toddler I rarely get a good nights sleep these days, and that’s where using a highlighter can make all the difference. The Radiant Face Illuminator has a creamy texture and the beige-white pearlescent tint gives dull skin a nice luminous and radiant glow, without making it too over the top shimmery. You can use it on its own, or you can mix it into your usual foundation, and apply too your cheekbones, cupids bow and anywhere else you’d like to highlight. It is very concentrated, so you only need to use a little, so the tube will last you forever. RRP: $9.95 (25ml) – Available from Big W
BOE Professional Big Kiss Lip Gloss
 |
| Big Kiss Lipgloss in shades Manhattan and Crystelle |
This lip gloss has a larger than normal wand applicator, that you at first think surely is too big, but it makes it surprisingly easy to apply the gloss to your lips. The lipgloss has a nice consistency and adds intense colour to the lips with a nice shine, and it has a reasonable wear of a few hours, although you do have to reapply after eating.
 |
| Big Kiss Lipgloss in shades Manhattan and Crystelle |
The lipgloss feels so lovely and moisturising on the lips thanks to containing vitamin E and jojoba oil, and even after the lipgloss has worn off, your lips are left feeling nourished and soft. Available in four shades. . RRP: $6.95 (15ml) – Available from Big WBOE Professional Perfect Pout Lip Cream
 |
| Perfect Pout Lip Cream in shade Divine |
The lip cream is almost like a lipstick in a tube form, that also comes with a foot doe applicator. It is soft and creamy, and leaves a nice colour on the lips, which you can both build up or apply more sheer, depending on preference, all while leaving your lips with a semi-matte finish. The lip cream lasts fairly well on the lips, (although now as well as the Big Kiss Lipgloss) and it contains vitamin E, so again, it feels lovely and moisturising on the lips. Available in four shades. RRP: $6.95 (15ml) – Available from Big W
Overall, I really like these products from BOE Professional, and I am surprised at their high quality considering their affordable prices. Of the products I tried, the stand-outs were the definitely the Finishing Powder, the BB Cream and Concealer and the Big Kiss Lipgloss, although I would not hesitate to repurchase any of the products again – as well as I plan to check out the rest of the range when I am next near a Big W store, I especially got my eyes on the Eye Bright Pen, the Blush Duo, the Full Coverage Concealer, and the Eyeshadow Quads..
*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
Have you tried any of the products from the BOE Professional range? What did you think of the products?
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31 January 2014
Product Review: Estée Lauder - Illuminating Powder Gelée in Heat Wave
Estée Lauder recently launched the limited edition Bronze
Goddess Collection here in Australia (check out the full collection here), and
here are my thoughts on the Estée Lauder Illuminating Powder Gelée in Heat
Wave;
What They Say:
What I Say:
What do you think of this illuminating powder from Estée Lauder? Do
you use illuminisers? What’s your favourite multi-tasking product?
What They Say:
"Utilizing True
Vision Technology - an innovative "tribrid" technology that creates a unique
sensorial texture as well as true color finish – Pure Color Illuminating
Powder Gelée in Heat Wave illuminates
complexion and leaves skin with a sexy polished glow. With blendable and
buildable coverage for a finish that goes from subtle and soft to highly
pearlized, this ultra-luxurious gelée also features a delicate pattern to
celebrate the sand and sun of Summer."
RRP: $75.00 – Available from Estée Lauder counters and Estée Lauder Online from 2nd February 2014
What I Say:
The Bronze
Goddess Summer Collection embodies the golden sands, flourishing palm trees and
exotic elements of a remote tropical Caribbean paradise. The Bronze Goddess Colour Collection
features hot and sultry shades born from bold and vibrant colour mixes. An
array of sunset hues with vivid bursts of colour surprise and awaken the
senses, while a captivating spectrum of bronze and metallic tones provide a
rich and daring makeup look. Eyes seduce with shimmering aquatic hues and
glistening golden tones, defined by deep, dramatic colour. Lips entice through
brightly pigmented pinks and corals with a reflective affect and skin glistens
with a bronzed, sun-kissed glow.
This
Illuminating Powder Gelée from Estée Lauder comes in a luxurious looking gold
compact with the Estée Lauder logo printed on top. Inside there is a full sized
mirror and a small sponge brush. The golden compact is so nice that it is a
shame to hide it away in a drawer, but it does close tightly so you can safely
pop it into your handbag without fearing it will pop open. In actual fact, I
always seem to struggle opening it, so in my opinion it almost closes a little
too tightly.
The actual illuminating powder in Heat Wave is a luminous
pale gold colour, and it swatches pretty close to the colour you see in the
compact. The actual illuminating doesn’t
contain any glitter, rather it is extremely fine shimmer particles that results
in a subtle glow and radiance.
The illuminating powder is very versatile as you can use it
to create a glow all over your face and not to mention décolleté, as well as it
can be used to highlight certain features of your face such as on as on top of
your cheek bones, under your brows, or on the cupids bow, even as an eye
shadow.
 |
| R: Built up colour, L: Blended |
 |
| L: Built up colour, R: Blended |
The illuminating powder and has a soft and smooth texture, but once it
comes into contact with the skin it becomes powdery, and hence why I probably
find it is easier to apply and blend with a powder brush or fan brush, and
because of the special formula, there is absolutely no fallout. It has a nice
staying powder, lasting the majority of the day without settling into fine
lines or wrinkles, fading or needing a touch-up.
What I Like:
- It gives the skin a nice radiance and glow
- It has a good staying power
- It is very versatile, and can be used all over the face, and the body as well
- It is very pigmented and concentrated so it only takes a little – so you will have this forever!
- It has a good staying power
What I Don’t Like:
- It is a little difficult to open the compact
- Because it is so pigmented and concentrated it is easy to over-use it
- It is a little expensive
Overall this Illuminating Powder from Estée Lauder is such a
lovely and versatile product. When used sparingly, it gives your skin such a
nice glow and radiance - as if you have just been away on a tropical holiday.
That is sadly the case for me as we are in the process of moving house – so if
nothing else, it will give my stressed and sleep-deprived looks so much needed
glow making me look a little more awake.
*This product was kindly provided for consideration, and it
has been reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy. 24 January 2014
Product Review: Violet Box – January 2014
It is that time of month again – where the monthly beauty
box subscription boxes start to arrive, and this morning I received the first
beauty box for the year, so here are my thoughts on the *January edition of the
Violet Box;
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What I Say:
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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
http://www.violetbox.com.au/
This month’s Violet
Box arrived in the now standard narrower sized black matte box, which closes
with a magnetic closure and a purple ribbon, and this is what was in the December
Violet Box…
Do you remember my
review of the December Violet Box….well if not, you can see it here…
Anyway, in last
month’s box there was a note with an apology saying that unfortunately the
planned Jelly Pong Pong Wide Awake Palette that was supposed to have been
included on the box, and which was mentioned on the product card, unfortunately
had been damaged during the transit. Violet Box instead included two Sweetpea
& Fay eyeshadows as a replacement in the December Box, and made a promise
that the Jelly Pong Pong palette would be included in the January box.
And as promised,
this box did indeed include the Jelly Pong Pong palette!
Jelly Pong Pong Wide
Awake Palette – Full Size (RRP: $32.00)
The palette is not
mentioned at all on the card with all the product descriptions, so you can
truly call this a bonus product, and at $32.00 how amazing value is that! This month’s
box has more than paid for itself there and then! The palette contains a highlighter
and a concealer along with three brow sculpting shades, and a small brush, all
presented in a pale pastel pink palette with a large mirror. This looks interesting,
so I can’t wait to test this out!
So Susan Water-Based
Pure Luminizer – Full Size (RRP: $49.00)
I have never before
heard of this UK brand, but I love it when I read that the products contains no
sulfates, mineral oils, phthalates, triclosan or animal by-products.
It is a
water-based liquid illuminiser with micronized pearlescent pigments to add
sheen to cheekbones, or brow bones . As this is a new brand to me, I cannot
wait to trial this luminiser ,and even more so knowing that it doesn’t contain
any chemical nasties. This is another full sized products with a massive value
of $49 – Wow, this box is starting out well..
So Susan Nail Lacquer
– Full Size (RRP:$10.00)
Another product
from So Susan, and this nail polish is also free from all the chemical nasties,
as well as it contains rosehip fruit oil to strengthen the nail and the skin
around it.
I got the colour Pink Guava, which is a lovely cerise pink, absolutely
perfect for tanned summer hands and feet, so this definitely won’t go to waste.
Lush Gorgeous Facial
Moisturiser – Sample Size 10g (RRP: $74.95/45g)
This cream
moistures, softens and nourishes, which provided it is not too rich for my
combination skin sounds perfect. Truth is that I have only ever tried the bath
products from Lush, and so long wanted to try the skincare products from Lush,
but just never gotten around to it, so can’t wait to put this one to the test.
It comes in a cute little tin – and the first challenge will be to work out how
to open it, maybe it is me, or perhaps my clumsy little fingers, but I will
need to enlist the help of my husband to open it up for me to I can put it to
the test!
The box also
included a card where if you spend $40 or more on Lush products online, you get
free postage. Tempting…
MOR Essential
Collection Hand Cream – 2 x sample sachets, 3ml each (RRP: 14.95/80ml)
I am very happy to
receive not one, but two sachet samples of these hand creams. I got Basil &
Grape, as well as Black Currant Iris. I am already familiar with the MOR hand
creams, and love them, and as I don’t know these two scent, I am quite happy to
be able to test them out too. The hand creams always smell gorgeous, - although
sometimes so nice that I cannot stop smelling my hands, LOL!
Villainess Soaps in Dulces
en Fuego – Sample – (RRP: $8.50/90g)
Another brand that
I have never heard of before. This one contains black pepper and cinnamon
sprinkled throughout, and consequently has a slightly spicy scent. It smells
nice, and the spicy scent is a refreshing change from the always floral varieties.
However, I must admit that I generally prefer to use liquid hand soap as I find
them less messy in the bathroom, but still, I will definitely put it to the
test, and actually, I could imagine that it would be right up my hubby’s alley,
not being sweet and girly scented.
Acorelle Eau de
Parfum – Sample vial 1.5ml (RRP: $$69.95/50ml)
I love perfumes,
and I have more than I can count, and there is always room for another one. In
my opinion there are simply too many gorgeous perfumes around to limit yourself
to just one signature scent, so I like to swap and change every day depending
on my mood, outfit and occasion. I have never heard of this brand before, so I
am always excited to trial out a new one. And especially when I read that it
contains mandarin and jasmine – and citrus scented products are on the absolute
top of my favourite scents.
Overall I am extremely
impressed with the contents of this months Violet Box, including the Jelly Pong
Pong palette, it contains a whole three full sized products, with a combined
value of $91 – how good is that when you only pay a maximum of $22.95 for the
box –that is over four times the value. I am obviously aware that the Jelly
Pong Pong Palette is bonus, but to quite honest, although Violet Box had
promised that it would be included in this month’s box, I didn’t expect to be a
bonus product, but that it would a part of the regularly included products!
Very impressive and generous of Violet Box!
And in addition the box also contains a full five samples in
the form of the soap, a facial cream, two hand creams and a perfume. Of course, it is only value for money if you
intend to use every single one of the included products, and I definitely will,
and am quite excited about them all.
If I have to be
negative, it would be that there are two products included from the So Susan
brand, and while I love discovering unknown brands, I would personally have
preferred just one So Susan product and have the second product replaced with another
brand that is new to me, if that makes sense. But really, that is just me nit-picking,
as with the value of the contents of the box, Violet Box could easily have
simply omitted say the nail polish from the box, and it would still have been
extremely good value.
So all in all, I am
very impressed with this month’s box – what a fantastic start to the New Year,
well done Violet Box!!
*Product was kindly provided for consideration, and has
reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
What do you think
of the products of the January Violet Box? Did you get this months’ box too?
What did you think? And if not, would you consider subscribing?
And of course, as
always, if you’d like to see an in-depth review of any of products in the box,
leave me a comment below..
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