PRODUCT REVIEW: MARY KAY MAKEUP FAVOURITES

One brand that I find is totally underrated is Mary Kay. The products are only sold online or through consultants, which perhaps is a reason, but even so, the brand has so many amazing products. So today I am going to do a rundown on some of my favourite Mary Kay Makeup products..

MARIE KONDO STYLE #DRAWERDETOX WITH ARBONNE RE9 ADVANCED - SKINCARE DECLUTTER

Did you know that the average woman is said to own 40 beauty products, yet use just 12 each day!! - Ok, as a beauty blogger, I actually admit to owning way way more than 40, and probably also have a more involved skincare routine than most, simply as I am always trying out different things to be able to share with you guys. 

PRODUCT REVIEW: IT COSMETICS TOP 5 MUST-TRY PRODUCTS FROM SEPHORA

The other week I was so lucky to be invited to a wellness event with cosmetics brand IT Cosmetics, which was absolutely amazing with a makeup masterclass with the brand’s National Education Manager, Josie Houlihan, followed by pilates (which I sadly couldn’t participate in due to hip injury), and followed by the most amazing brunch.

PRODUCT REVIEW: FREEZEFRAME BODY BLUR, LIPOSLIM, BREAST ENHANCER AND INSTANT LASH EXTREME

Today I am going to talk a little more about the brand Freezeframe, an Australian brand that promises"clinical strength treatments & instant results. Some time ago I tested out a range of freezeframe products, to see if they really were a good alternative to Botox, if you missed it, you can see it here. 

PRODUCT REVIEW: GENIE BEAUTY INSTANT LINE SMOOTHER, MAKE ME BLUSH, SUPERGLIDE EYELINER, MILLION DOLLAR MASCARA AND LASH BOOSTER

One of those brands I was introduced to not long ago was Genie Beauty, and I seriously cannot rave enough about their Nutratanicals Antioxidant Foundation (read about it here), Line Smoothing Concealer (read about it here), and Make Me Blush (which you can read more about here). 

PRODUCT REVIEW: NATIO COLOUR ME HAPPY COLLECTION

PRODUCT REVIEW // EYE OF HORUS EYE SHADOW PALETTE, GODDESS PENCIL AND GODDESS MASCARA FROM RY

PRESSPLAY COSMETICS - THE ULTIMATE BEAUTY PRODUCTS ON THE GO // PRODUCT REVIEW

SUPERFOOD INFUSED NATURAL SKINCARE AND MAKEUP FROM RAWW COSMETICS // PRODUCT REVIEW

PRODUCT REVIEW: 3INA THE CREAM EYESHADOWS, THE METALLIC EYE SHADOW AND THE VOLUME MASCARA

PRODUCT REVIEW: RIMMEL LONDON VOLUME SHAKE MASCARA, FILLING POWDER AND FIBRE PENCIL

One of those drugstore brands that has really hit the mark lately with their products, is Rimmel London - and now they've certainly done it again with their newest releases, which include the Volume Shake Mascara, Brow Shake Filling Powder and Brow This Way Fibre Pencil..

Let's start with the Rimmel London Volume Shake Mascara, which has what claims is the first-to-market patented shaker system that refreshes the volumising formula whenever it’s needed, which essentially also means that the mascara is never dry, as the formula is made up from a combination of water and waxes, which goes from dry to creamy whenever it is given a shaken 3-5 times. The mascara is thereby refreshed, for maximum result from the first to the last use. The mascara also promises clump-free volume, and smudge free defined lashes 

I haven't personally noticed the mascara go dry yet, but that's perhaps because I unconsciously has been given it a quick shake before each use. I do like the large wand of this mascara, which is easy to use on both top and lower lashes, easily coating even the smaller lashes in the corners. It does take a few moments to dry, so you have to be a little patient.

As for volume and definition, it does certainly add both definition and length without any clumping, making my lashes look very natural, it also adds a touch of volume, but nothing too dramatic, so it is a great mascara for every day casual and natural look.

Because of the shaker system, the mascara is a little bulky, but I never apply makeup on the go, so as I never carry mascara around, I personally I don't really mind.

Then there's the Rimmel Brow Shake Filling Powder, which also needs to be given a shake to disperse the powder to fill, line define and line the brows. The powder is soft and quite pigmented so one stroke is more than sufficient for my brows, though you can build up the intensity. And as promised, it is fade, smudge, transfer and waterproof, so it really does stay put until you remove it at night with makeup remover. It has a small and very narrow little sponge applicator which makes it easy to apply precisely, drawing along your brows and filling them in, though I do find that it has a little fall-out when you apply it, so be sure to tap off any excess powder before using it, or you'll end up with a less than natural look and a bit of a mess. But that said, once I mastered using it, I've really come to enjoy this one and can see myself repurchasing. It come in four shades, and I used the Dark Brown, which is perfect for my medium brown brows.

Finally, there's the Rimmel Brow This Way Fibre Pencil. This brow pencil has nylon fibres to give definition, and claims to be the first of its kind brow-plumping pencil, that is to be highly pigmented to softly fill in brows for an intense yet natural colour. It deposits tiny integrated fibres to add realistic volume to sparse areas. The fibres hold fast to brows for long-lasting wear. I am not sure if it was because I'd just tried the Filling Powder, but I have to say that I did not find the pencil pigmented at all and I was struggling getting any colour at all, but after warming it a little on my hands, it did help a little, though I still wouldn't call it highly pigmented. However, that said, for an everyday casual look, I do like how it helps define by brows and make them look more groomed, and yes, all while looking very natural and far from drawn on unlike many other brow pencils - but I am not sure I actually find that it is giving my brows more volume, just more fullness. If you're after an intense bold look, this Fibre Pencil is not for you, but if you just want to subtly define your brows whilst keeping a natural 'no-makeup' look, then its certainly worth a try.


So there you go, the newest product releases from Rimmel, and yet again, some great ones. If I have to take a pick, the standout for me, once I got used to it, would have to be the Filling Powder.


Rimmel London Volume Shake Mascara, RRP $18.95 / 9ml
Rimmel London Brow Shake Filling Powder - RRP: $14.95 /0.7g
Rimmel London Brow This Way Fibre Pencil - RRP: $10.95/ 1.08g

Available from Priceline, Target, Kmart, BIG W, selected pharmacies and selected Coles and Woolworths

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

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PRODUCT REVIEW: PUR COSMETICS LOVE YOUR SELFIE 2 FACE PALETTE

As a beauty fanatic I love trying out and discovering new brands - and only recently I came across PÜR Cosmetics, and tested out their Best Sellers Kit (which you can read all about here), and as their Cushion Foundation, Bronzer and Strobe Palette (which you can read all about here) - and I really loved their products - so needless to say that when the PÜR Cosmetics Love Your Selfie 2 Face Palette landed on my desk, I was naturally very excited. 

If you're not familiar with PÜR Cosmetics, you seriously should get acquainted. The U.S mineral makeup range has the underlying goal of making products formulated with good-for-your-skin ingredients that not only help cover skin imperfections but also help correct its overall appearance.

PÜR Cosmetics Love Your Selfie 2 Face Palette is a compact that is loaded with 13 of PÜR's best-selling products including;

• Illuminating Highlighter in Photogenic, 2.2g 
• Mineral Glow Bronzing Powder in Composition, 2.2g 
• Baking Powder in Overexposed, 2.2g 
• 8 eye shadows, including 2 matte, 6 shimmery 1g each 
• Lip Gloss in Silhouette - Deluxe sample, 3.9g 
• Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Focal Point, 1.9g 
• Fully Charged Mascara - Deluxe sample, 5ml 

In short, this palette contains everything you'll need to take you from desk to dinner, and it even contains a how-to cards, with ideas for both day-time and night-time looks. 

Starting with eye shadows, are in a range of offers a very wearable neutral shades, as well as a few deeper and more shimmery shades perfect for night time. There are shades for base, for the crease, shimmery shades to enhance and highlight, and deeper colours to add intensity and drama. The shades are all very smooth and silky soft. They are also all quite pigmented and easy to apply and blend. They also wear well throughout the day, without settling into lines and creases, and with minimal fall out. The only shade I am not sure about is the burgundy shade 'Sketch', but other than that, all other shades are a perfect for someone like me, preferring muted neutral shades.

I have previously talked about the bronzer, which I really love (and you can read about here!), and while I am usually not fond of shimmery bronzers, I do love this Mineral Glow Bronzing Powder as it just has a tiny touch of sheen, giving your skin such a natural tanned look, making it look glowing and radiant. It is silky soft and easy to apply with a powder brush.

The Illuminating Powder in Photogenic is a pale pearly pinkish shade that leaves a lovely natural glow on the apples of your cheeks, while not being too shimmery or glittery, and it leaves your cheeks with a beautiful natural flushed look, perfect for winter-pale skin. The Baking Powder in Overexposed is a very pale dusty rose shade that is perfect for using on the top of the cheek bones. These three powders may not be intended for it, but you can naturally use these as eye shadows too.

Next is the Fully Charged Mascara, which contains among others a magnetic polymer matrix to lift and curl lashes. The large brush makes it easy to apply, and it separates the lashes nicely without any clumping, and just one coat gives a nice definition, length and curl great for day-time, while a few more coats adds more dramatic volume and length.

For the lips, there's the Lip Gloss in Silhouette, which is a medium mauve shade is perfect for day-time looks. It is quite pigmented and it applies smoothly with a beautiful shine, and it is infused wit a lip plumping technology that makes the lips appear fuller. It feels soft and creamy and moisturising on the lips, without being sticky. And because it is so pigmented, you can build it up to almost full intensity, or apply it more lightly for a more subtle look.

For night, there's the Lip Pencil in Focal Point which is a dark mauve shade which is absolutely stunning. It is soft and cream, and so easy to apply, and it leaves a gorgeous velvety matte finish on the lips, yet without feeling dry on the lips. The dark shade means that it has a good wear of several hours, and even when it fades, it does so evenly, leaving a nice stain on the lips.

This is really a very versatile palette, and it includes all the basics you need, plus a few extras that allow you to transform your makeup look from day to night. All the products are of high quality and very pigmented and feel so lovely to use and wear.

The actual palette is slightly bulky, which is however necessary to make room for the lip pencil, lip gloss and mascara, but does mean that you may find it too big for the handbag for everyday use. Personally I am rarely one for applying makeup on the go, so for me, it will be to be used at home, or take with me when travelling, for which I find it absolutely perfect. 

All the products are really lovely and of such high quality, and considering the amount of products that you get, this is extremely well priced, so I highly recommend you check out this palette. Personally I also really liked the mascara which I can imagine repurchasing, as well as I really liked the lip pencil, and would love to explore more different shades.


PÜR Cosmetics Love Your Selfie 2 Face Palette - RRP: $62
Available from select MYER Stores.

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

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PRODUCT REVIEW: EYE OF HORUS FROM ACTIVESKIN

One of those brands that I've seen around a lot lately, and heard so much hype about, yet never had an opportunity to try, I Eye Of Horus - so when beautiful parcel arrived from Activeskin with a selection of their product, I was naturally very excited. 

Eye of Horus is an Australian brand of eye makeup based from Australia, with product formulas based on the formulas of the Ancient Egyptians, the originators of beauty and mystique, with sacred ingredients including Organic Moringa Oil “Oil of the Pharaohs”, claimed by the gods for its beautifying and regenerating powers and the ancient oil of Castor Oil. 

The Eye of Horus range takes its inspiration from the ancient Egyptians who wore eye makeup because they believed that it offered magical power and protection to the wearer. They lined their eyes with black Kohl, creating an almond-shaped eye - The Eye of Horus - which was believed to protect their eyes as well as providing a statement of beauty.

I tried a selection of products including the Eye Of Horus Luminous Isis Sun Goddess Eye Shadow Palette. This palette contains three Italian baked eye shadows, in satin metallic shades, which include; 

• Enigma Mist - peachy Pink Metallic Satin 
• Chalice Bronze - Golden Bronze Metallic Satin 
• Sacred Husk- Deep Golden Copper Metallic Satin 

These shades are so lovely, and just the type of earthy shades that I reach for on a daily basis. The shades are quite pigmented, and they are soft and silky and quick and easy to apply and blend within minimum fallout. As promised they are also long wearing, staying put all day without fading or settling into fine lines.

The shades can be used both wet and dry. Dry for a more subtle day time look, or wet for a more intense and radiant finish, although I personally find them sufficiently intense and shimmery. But I do love that you can amplify them further for an intense look for a night out. 

The eye shadow comes in a card box, as many other eye palettes at the moment, which has a magnetic closure. The palette is black and has a gorgeous golden goddess printed on the cover. Inside there's a mirror and it also comes with a double ended brush, with a rounded brush in one end, and an angled one in the other end.

Then there's the Eye of Horus Goddess Pencil in Nubian Brown, which is a eyeliner pencil in a dark matte brown shade - and personally I much prefer to use a dark brown over a black, as it is not as harsh looking. This eyeliner is really creamy and rich thanks to containing among others waxes from Beeswax, Carnuba and Candelilla as well as Organic Moringa Oil for a creamy rich formula. This eyeliner is so easy to use, without dragging and pulling at the sensitive eye area. And as promised it is so long lasting, staying put, without smudging or fading during the day, it is even waterproof, so it also stays put when my sensitive eyes water. I also love that it comes with a smudger in the other end, so I can use it for smoky eyes too. 

The Eye of Horus Ultimate Brow Define, which is a superfine pointed pen to help contour and fill in colour for perfectly shaped brows. The pen is formulated using Coconut and Candelilla wax as a foundation, which also helps groom the brows, as well as caster oil for strengthening and growth. And this twist up pen is so easy to use, and gives such a natural look, also thanks to the spoolie brush in the other end which is useful for combing through the colour afterwards and smudge it. Whilst using it, I have not noticed any difference in the health of my brows, but regardless I still love using this. 

Finally there's the Eye of Horus Bio Lash Lift Mascara, which is 100% Vegan and contains a massive 98% Organic ingredients including botanicals such as Marine Algae and plant derived Collagen, along with Omega 9, Vitamin E and castor seed oil to help add length, volume and nourishment to lashes while promoting natural growth.

The mascara has a double sided comb brush that makes it easy to apply and comb through the lashes to avoid any clumps, and give longer and more voluminous lashes, that are nicely separated with a nice lift and curl too. The smaller side is great for the lower lashes and the corners of the eyes, while the larger side of the comb is great for the upper lashes. I am also yet to see any difference in overall health of my lashes, but I still really enjoy this mascara. From the every first use it has given my lashes a nice look (unlike those mascaras you need to use countless times before they expense too much product onto your lashes), and I really love that it is made using natural and organic ingredients.


These products from Eye Of Horus really are lovely, and saying which product would be my favourite, would be impossible, although I absolutely adore the eye shadow palette, and wouldn't mind getting hold of a few of the other shade combinations, and that Goddess eyeliner pencil is also amazing.


Eye of Horus Eye Shadow Palette - RRP: $41.40
Eye of Horus Goddess Pencil - RRP: $27
Eye of Horus Brow Define Pencil - RRP: $22.50
Eye of Horus Bio Lash Lift Mascara - RRP: $34.20

Available from Activeskin


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 have a 'Best Price Promise, which you can read more about here. 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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PRODUCT REVIEW: PHYSICIANS FORMULA MURUMURU BUTTER BRONZER, ABC CUSHION FOUNDATION AND ORGANIC WEAR CC CURL AND CARE MASCARA

I have previously featured some products from Physicians Formula - and today I'm excited to share a few more that I've been putting to the test lately..

Let's start with the Physicians Formula Murumuru Butter Bronzer. This bronzer has been infused with blend of Murumuru Butter, Cupuacu Butter and Tucuma Butter, from the lush and nutrient-rich Amazon. These ingredients are loaded with essential fatty acids and pro-vitamins that soften, condition and moisturise skin, and thanks to these ingredients, the bronzer is very creamy and soft with a cream to powder consistency.

The bronzer comes with a sponge applicator included in a compartment underneath the bronzer, which also has a mirror - which packaging wise, is very similar to other powders from the brand. And while the coloured is very cute and perfect for touchups on the go, I pretty much only apply makeup at home, so I do prefer to use my own brushes in stead. The bronzer has a stunning rippled effect, and comes in a slightly bulky yellow and green compact, with printed palm leaves, that does give it a tropical feel, which is only accentuated by the coconut scent. If you regularly tune into BLH, you'll know that coconut scented products are not exactly my faves, and thus, I would also prefer if this bronzer wasn't quite as strongly scented as it is. But luckily it does fade little by little.

As for the actual bronzer - I actually really enjoy using it as it is so soft and creamy, it is quick and easy to apply and also blends very easily, and it does give the skin a gorgeous natural bronzed glow, and without looking dry or cakey thanks to its moisturising formula. I also really like that it unlike many other bronzers doesn't contain any glitter or shimmer. I tried the shade Light, which is perfect for my medium beige skin tone, but I can imagine that this shade is possibly too dark for those with very pale skin. Overall really enjoying using this bronzer, but again just wish that it didn't have such a strong, and to me it is a slightly overpowering coconut scent.

Then there's the Physicians Formula Mineral Wear Talc-Free All-in-1 ABC Cushion Foundation. Cushion Foundations are very raved about at the moment, and most brands have or are launching their own versions, and I for one, have to admit that I do love these types of foundations having tried a few different ones, so also excited putting this one from Physicians Formula to the test. And I have to say that of everything I've tried, and seen too, this Cushion Foundation from Physicians Formula is without a doubt the prettiest of them all, with its turquoise quilted design. It also has a slightly bulky design, but then again, all other cushion foundations I've come across are like that! And like all other Cushions I've tried, this one also have an internal compartment with an extra seal to ensure it doesn’t dry out, and it comes with a sponge to dose and apply. The foundation has a very light mineral formula and claims to be an all in one offering airbrushing, blurring and correcting properties, while also adding hydration to the skin and having a smoothing and firming effect.

The foundation has a light to medium coverage, which can be built up slightly, and thus does cover minor imperfections such as lighter pigmentation, blemishes and redness, though I do feel that I need to use a more heavy duty concealer to cover the massive dark circles under my eyes I've been sporting lately. But that said, I do love the dewy finish of this foundation and the fact that it makes my skin look very natural, and I can see myself purchasing this again. 

Finally, there's the Physicians Formula Organic Wear CC Curl + Care Mascara. This mascara is 100% natural and made up of 70% organic ingredients, which I really love. It is also free from harsh chemicals, synthetic preservatives, parabens and synthetic fillers, but rather it uses natural colour pigments and natural preservatives. It also contains aloe, cucumber and tapioca starch to nourish and set, sugar film to sculpt the lashes, along with renewable biopolymer to add curve and fullness.

The mascara promises to both care, condition and nourish the lashes, while giving them curl as if you've used an eyelash curler! Now I admit to rarely using an eye lash curler, but I don’t quite think the mascara can live up to this claim of 'saying goodbye to your eyelash curler', although it certainly does give my lashes a significant lift and curl. The mascara has a curved brush and I like that from the very first use, it doesn't clump like many other new mascaras that are simply too wet in the beginning. For a drug-store mascara it also adds a decent amount of both volume and length, and again also curl to my lashes which I really like, although neither is dramatic - but then again, it doesn’t make that claim either. The mascara also promises to provide 24 hours wear, but unfortunately my eyes very easily water, and consequently I mostly use waterproof mascaras to avoid that panda look - and unfortunately this mascara isn't waterproof, and after a walk where the cold winds made my eyes water, I sadly had more mascara down my cheeks when I got home than on my lashes. Such a shame, as I actually think this is a great everyday mascara.


So there you go, a selection of Physicians Formula products. And while I really enjoyed using all, and will continue to use them, the highlight for me was definitely the Cushion Foundation.

Physicians Formula Organic Wear CC Curl + Care Mascara - RRP: $24.95 / 7.5g
Physicians Formula Mineral Wear Talc-Free All-in-1 ABC Cushion Foundation - RRP: $29.95 / 14ml

Physicians Formula Murumuru Butter Bronzer - RRP: $29.95 / 11g

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


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PRODUCT REVIEW: MODERE COLOUR

A little while ago I was invited to an event for the launch of Modere Colour - But unfortunately I couldn’t' make it as it was being held in Sydney. In stead the brand kindly sent me a selection of their products.

Perhaps you've never heard of Modere before - frankly, I hadn’t either although the brand has been around for a few decades selling products within skincare and household products.

In line with the brands philosophy, the aim with the newly launched Modere Colour makeup line is to sell "honest, bold, safer and botanically inspired makeup designed to go hand in hand with the existing skincare range – all created to enhance your natural beauty from the inside out. Colour that’s clean and safe, with BPA free packaging, natural mineral pigments and certified organic botanicals and without potentially harmful ingredients, animal products or animal testing." I also love the fact that the products are Australian made and owned. But let’s get on to talking about the products.

The Modere Colour Primer contains among others organic aloe to soothe redness and hydrate tired or dehydrated skin. It also contains natural mica Natural mica, a light reflecting mineral to give the skin a luminescent look, which hazel to help tighten the pores and leave the skin fresh (and so perfect for my combination skin with large pores!), as well as Grapefruit seed extract acts as a natural antioxidant.

The primer has a slightly odd scent, but it is incredibly light, almost watery, and absorbs into the skin immediately, and it leaves the skin feeling silky soft and smooth. Following I find that foundation is so much easier to apply, as it seems to glide onto my skin, as well as make my skin look more flawless that without and not to mention, makes my makeup stay put for longer. It comes in stylish square pump bottle that makes it easy to use. 

The Modere Colour Mineral Liquid Foundation contains certified organic ingredients such as jojoba seed oil to add hydration, avocado oil to conditions the skin and provide a luxe application and rose flower extract softens the skin. The foundation has the same slightly odd scent, and it has a creamy consistency and a medium coverage that dries to a soft matte finish. It is easy to apply with either your fingers, a blending sponge or a foundation brush, but I find that you do have to blend fast before it dries. I love the matte finish on my combination skin and that it has a good wear, used with the primer, staying put all day without looking greasy or settling into fine lines. It also comes in the same style stylish square pump bottle that makes it easy to use. And by the way, I love that the bottles are clear, so I can easily see how much product is left in the bottles.

The Modere Colour Mineral Pressed Foundation is made using Ethyl macadamiate from natural macadamia oil to create a light, non-greasy texture and feel on the skin, Jojoba esters to soften and soothe the skin, and natural mineral compounds from Iron oxides for a natural colour. The Mineral Pressed Powder has a matte finish and can be used either as a finishing powder on top of a foundation for a matte finish and to extend wear, or as a foundation on its own. It is best applied with a kabuki brush, and you can apply just a light coverage or build it up to a medium coverage, covering redness, blemishes and some pigmentation, yet it still looks natural. I have enjoyed using it both on top of the Mineral Liquid Foundation, or on its own on more casual days where I've wanted a less made up look. It comes in a stylish black round compact with a large internal mirror. 

The Modere Colour Bronzer is made using Ethyl macadamiate from natural macadamia oil to create a light, non-greasy texture and feel on the skin, Lauroyl lysine from coconut fatty acids to create texture and a silky finish, as well as the natural mineral mica to add glow and reduce the appearance of pores and wrinkles. The Bronzer has texture that is easy to apply, and thanks to the tiny shimmer particles that give the skin a lovely radiant and healthy glow, looking very natural and not orange or fake like other bronzers. It also comes in a black round compact with a large internal mirror. 

The Modere Colour Blush is also made using Ethyl macadamiate from natural macadamia oil to create a light, non-greasy texture and feel on the skin, Lauroyl lysine from coconut fatty acids to create texture and a silky finish, as well as the natural mineral mica to add glow with a touch of subtle sheen. The blushes are easy to apply and blend, and they are quite pigmented so it only takes a little to get those naturally fresh flushed cheeks. I tried the shades Poppy, a brighter pink, and Posie, a pale dusty pink - both of which are lovely shades, although I particularly love the Poppy to add some much needed colour to my tired pale face. The blushes come in little round black compacts, with a 'window' in the lid so you can easily see the shade.

The Modere Colour Eye Shadow, which like the blushes and the bronzer is made from Ethyl macadamiate from natural macadamia oil to create a light, non-greasy texture and feel on the skin, Lauroyl lysine from coconut fatty acids to create texture and a silky finish, as well as the natural mineral mica to add subtle sheen. The eye shadows are so soft and very pigmented too, so it is easy to build them up to an intense look, which you can intensify further by applying them with a damp brush. There are 12 gorgeous shades in the range, and I tried the shades Bella, a peachy nude shade, Cognac, a dark chocolate shade, and Frenchy, a medium blue shade. Sadly I am very conservative, and tend to wear nothing but nudes and browns on my eyes, so however lovely the shade is, the blue is not quite for me, but the Bella and Cognac shades are so stunning, both together and individually. I also love how they stay put all day without settling or fading. The eye shadows also come in little round black compacts, with a 'window' in the lid so you can easily see the shade. 

The Modere Colour Mascara is a mineral mascara made with arnauba wax to thicken and lengthen the lashes, along with certified organic jojoba seed oil to nourish and keep lashes soft, as well as castor seed oil for a clump-free formula and perfect lash separation. The mascara has a medium sized brush and the small tip makes it easy to reach even the small lashes in the corners. One coat gives the lashes length and volume, while a few more coats, while with a few more coats you can build this up more. I like how it easily separates the lashes and doesn’t clump them together, also regardless of how many coats you add. The mascara comes in a thin long black packaging. 

The Modere Colour Lipsticks are vegan and made using shea butter to keep the lips moist and protected from the harsh elements, carnauba wax to give them a creamy texture, and candelilla wax brings a smooth, creamy finish. The lipsticks are very soft and creamy and they apply easily and smoothly, and feels very comfortable on the lips thanks to the moisturising formula. They have next to no scent, and are quite pigmented, so just one swipe gives you a decent colour pay-off, and with a lovely sheen. For a moisturising lip, they have a decent wear of a 3-4 hours, though a little more for the darker shades. There are 12 colours in the range, and I tried the shades, Barely, a pale barely there nude shade, Molly, a brighter cerise pink shade and Relish, a classic bold red shade, which is also my favourite of the three. The lipsticks come in a black metal tube, and I really like that the bottom part is clear, so that you can easily see the shade of the lipstick without opening it. 

The Modere Colour Lip Glosses are made from cetyl alcohol to help soften and condition the skin, hydrogenated polyisobutene to moisturise and prevent water loss from the lips, and certified organic orange peel oil for a fresh, sweet, natural fragrance, so unlike the other products, these lipglosses actually smell really lovely. The lip glosses come in a long clear tube with a pointy foot doe applicator and are easy to apply, and thanks to their moisturising properties, they also feel very lovely on the lips. There are 4 shades in the range, and are either sheer or bold and hence vary a lot. I tried two, Marmalade, which in the tube looks peachy-orange, but on the lips it goes on clear with a golden shimmer, so it is good to use either on its own, or on top of a lipstick for more dimension and high sheen. I also tried the shade Watermelon, my favourite of the two. It applies as a full and bolder and brighter coral-red shade and is hence best used on its own. Of the two, it also has the longest wear, also leaving behind a nice stain on the lips once it has worn off. 

All the products come in gorgeous bright coloured boxes. I have enjoyed putting these to the test, and will continue to use the products going forward, and while I cannot say that there as a product I didn’t like, there naturally were a couple of standout products. I particularly enjoyed the primer as it is so light and seems so good on my combination skin, but I also really enjoy the bronzer as it both applies so natural and gives such a lovely glow, without looking orange. The blush in the Poppy shade is such a lovely shade, and I also have to mention the eye shadows as they are so pigmented and has such a good wear. For the lips, I did enjoy both the bolder lipsticks and Glosses, and would love to see the Gloss range extended with more solid bold shades.

So all in all a selection of beautiful makeup products from Modere Colour, in beautiful shades and of high quality and free from all the chemical nasties, so I definitely recommend that you check them out!


Modere Colour Primer - RRP: $42.95 / 40ml
Modere Colour Mineral Liquid Foundation - RRP: $49.95 / 40ml
Modere Colour Mineral Pressed Foundation - RRP: $44.95 / 14g
Modere Colour Bronzer - RRP: $46.95 / 14g
Modere Colour Blush - RRP: $34.95 / 3g
Modere Colour Eye Shadow - RRP: $28.95 / 2g
Modere Colour Mascara - RRP: $32.95 / 10g
Modere Colour Lipstick - RRP: $35.95 / 4.5g
Modere Colour Lip Gloss - RRP: $26/95 / 8g

Available from Modere

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


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PRODUCT REVIEW: RIMMEL LONDON SCANDALEYES RELOADED MASCARA, SCANDALEYES BOLD EYELINER AND BROW THIS WAY

Today I am excited to share with you some newly launched products from Rimmel London. In my opinion, Rimmel had some killer product launches lately, including their gorgeous matte lipstick range! And today's run-down is no exception.

First up is the Rimmel London Waterprof Scandaleyes Reloaded Mascara, which is a waterproof version of the Rimmel Scandaleyes Reloaded Mascara launched last year. This mascara claims to be a breakthrough, that can create a new dimension of intense volume without clumping, and that you can layer it up to 11 times without it looking clumpy!

My one issue with the mascara is that it is very 'wet,' so the first couple of times that used it, I found that it simply put too much mascara on my lashes, causing issues - but after wiping it down, I now really like it.

Like the 'original' it has a oversized soft bristle brush, which I really like, as it is super easy to use, easily coating both inner and outer lashes.

The mascara does a great job giving my lashes both length and volume with just one coat, and adding a few more it does give create long lashes with lots of volume with a slight curl too.

My sensitive eyes water very easily, so I do love that it is waterproof, - but it does naturally require a good makeup remover to remove it at night, but I generally use one for waterproof makeup anyway, so no biggie for me.

It comes in a stand-out bright purple slightly bulky plastic tube with orange writing, but containing 12mls of mascara, it is also larger than most mascara, which are usually around the 8ml!

Last year, Rimmel launched the Brow This Way eye brow range, and now, the Styling Gel has been improved with argan oil added to the formula to help condition and soften the brows, while improving the appearance of the brows at the same time.

The Brow This Way has a mascara style brush that is easy to comb through the brows, and the tapered brush, helps ensure the perfect shape, both taming and tinting the brows at the same time, giving them a very natural yet polished look. The actual gel is light, and stays put all day without smudging or fading, as well as it keeps the brows neatly in place too. I was always a fan of the original version, so no complaints from me with the new improvements.

Finally, there's the Rimmel Scandaleyes Bold Liquid Liner. This eyeliner is different to most other liquid eye liners as it has a very unique ball-tip applicator. It does take a little bit of getting used to, but again, mainly because it is so different, but once you got the hang of it, it is actually quite easy.

This eyeliner can draw an intense black line, or you can be inspired by the runway and make on-trend dots along the lower or upper lash line - and all with a nice glossy finish. I also love that it is waterproof, and doesn’t fade or budge throughout the day.


Overall I really love these new products from Rimmel, and are definitely worth trying.


Rimmel London Waterproof Scandaleyes Reloaded Mascara - RRP: $17.95
Rimmel London Waterproof Scandaleyes Bold Eyeliner - RRP: $12.95
Rimmel London Brow This Way Styling Gel with Argan Oil - RRP: $12.95

Available from Priceline, Chemist Warehouse, Target, Kmart, Big W and selected pharmacies, Coles and Woolworths.

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


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PRODUCT REVIEW: CHERRY BLOOMS FIBER BROW, FIBER LASH AND VINYL LINER

Today I am going to talk about some great products from Cherry Blooms, an Australian brand making cruelty free products, which are much hyped about all over the world, including their Fiber Brow, Fiber Lash and Vinyl Liner.

Lets start with the brows.. Decades ago, super thin brows were in, so they were plucked and plucked - and now bigger and more natural brows are in again - and sadly for those of us who over-plucked two decades ago, it does mean having to call in some assistance. And the Cherry Blooms Fiber Brow is just that.

The Fiber Brow contains tiny cellulose fibres and coloured powders that act like mineral brows. Using them is super easy, using the product which come shaped a little like a lip gloss, with a doe applicator. And you simply pull out one of the three included brow stencils that comes in the pack, in Thin, Thick or Natural, and brush on the fibres to fill in any gaps you may have, tint your brows and give them a fuller and thicker appearance.

You do have to be cautious when applying them so the fibres don’t drop into your eyes, but hereafter its smooth sailing, as they do stay put all day, without dropping, fading or absorbing into the skin. I am really impressed with the Fibre Brow. So quick and easy to apply, and gives you a very natural looking brow, that doesn't look like it has been drawn on. And for someone like me who is otherwise hopeless at shaping my brows, I love that the kit comes with three stencils for the perfect shaped brows. And the kits are available in several different shades, so there's sure to be one to match your colours.

 

Then there's the Cherry Blooms Fiber Lash Eyelash Extensions Brush on Brush On Fiber Lashes. This Fiber Lash Kit comes with two pieces and promises to amplify the lashes by 600x, with the effect of extensions. To use, you first use the Transplanting Gel which looks like any other black mascara. You need to coat the lashes well, with 20+ strokes, and hereafter you need apply 15+ strokes of the Fibres before the Transplanting Gel dries. When you're done, you apply another 20+ coat of the Transplanting Gel to seal the fibers in place and stop them from falling off.

I am lucky that I do not have short lashes, but I naturally, like most girls, do like them longer - but at the same time, I am hopeless at applying false lashes, and besides, with two toddlers running around also never seem to have the time to. These Fiber Lashes are thus the ultimate alternative. They are easy to apply, but I did unfortunately, in my haste manage to get a few fibres drop into my sensitive eyes, which wasn't great, so if you do apply, make sure you take your time and be cautious. It is a little fiddly and time consuming too, due to all the coats, but that said, I did like the result, definitely much quicker than applying false lashes, and they're very easy to remove to with an eye makeup remover. I wouldn't go as far as to say they amplify by 600+, but I definitely experienced both more volume and longer lashes, so if you're like me and don't like the falsies, then these may be your answer.

Finally, there's the Cherry Blooms Vinyl Liner, which is an extremely waterproof eye liner made with poly vinyl. My sensitive eyes are often watering, and pairing with greasy eye lids, it can be hard to get an eyeliner to stay put. But this one truly delivers, it is seriously sweat and smudge proof, staying put all day long, without fading either. The eye liner has a very fine felt tip that makes it super easy to draw a fine line, making it look very natural too, though you can of course always build up the line for a bolder and more dramatic look. I also really like the shiny finish that it has. Because it is waterproof, it does have to be removed with a oil-based waterproof eye makeup remover


Overall I have enjoyed putting these to the test. Favourites are definitely the Fiber Brows and the Eye Liner, which I would consider repurchasing, while the Fiber Lash is great for those special nights out when I want the look of falsies, but without the need to apply them.


Cherry Blooms Fiber Brow - RRP: $49 / 3g
Cherry Blooms Fiber Lash - RRP: $69 / 10ml and 0.8g
Cherry Blooms Vinyl Liner - RRP: $24.95 / 4.5ml

Active Skin, David Jones, RY and Cherry Blooms Online

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


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PRODUCT REVIEW: PUR MINERALS BEST SELLERS 5-PIECE BEAUTY-TO-GO COLLECTION

Today I am going to talk about a brand that is completely new to me, Pur Minerals, putting the Best Sellers Kit to the test. The products from Pur Minerals are eco friendly, with the brand committed to using natural and responsibly sourced ingredients full of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals - all put together so they not only look great on your skin, but also nourish and help treat any skin concerns at the same time.

If you're new to a brand, trial kits with sample sized products are always fantastic, as it allows you to try several products without the expense of getting full sized products. The Pur Minerals Best Sellers Kit 5-piece beauty-to-go Collections contains five of the brand's most popular products for you to try, and even a little how-to guide in case you need it. The kit includes;  

 

• Correcting Primer Prep & Perfect - 10ml
• 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup - 4.3g
• Mineral Glow Bronzer - 3.4g
• Chisel Brush
• Big Look Mascara with Argan Oil - 5g

 

The Correcting Primer contains ingredients such as shea butter and vitamin B3, as well as salicylic acid, which is perfect for my breakout prone combination skin, as it helps to unclog the pores - a refreshing change from primers which I often find clog my pores up! But using this primer means that it helps keep the skin free from imperfections, while also improving its elasticity and evening out the skin tone by lightening dark spots. The light primer is easy to apply, and really leaves the skin soft and smooth and hydrated too, and makes it so easy to apply your foundation, which also stays looking fresh for longer with the use of this primer. I am so in love with it, that I have to get my hands on a full sized tube.

  

The second step is the 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup, which is a foundation, powder, concealer and sun protector all-in-one. And to be perfectly honest, I admit that I am not usually a fan of powdered foundations, mainly as I often feel that I cannot get the coverage I need, and when I try to build it up, it turns dry and cakey. But this one has me convinced otherwise.

 

 

 

 

The powder foundation is applied with the included Chisel brush, by circular motions, and layering as needed. I tried the shade Golden Medium, which is a good match for my medium beige, slightly summer-tanned skin tone. The foundation is very light, and gives a nice medium coverage, but you can easily build it up slightly too so it also covers most pigmentation and redness, while still looking natural.

  

The Chisel Brush is so soft and gorgeous, and designed to apply the pressed foundation as the top is a flat-headed brush that makes it blending it into the skin seamless.

  

The third step is the Mineral Glow, which is a mineral bronzer that adds glow and radiance to the skin. The shade is a nice medium shade and it has a lovely golden glow, without being too shiny or glittery, but rather just a touch of shimmer that adds such a gorgeous healthy and luminous sun-kissed glow. For once a bronzer that doesn’t make your skin look orange, but rather gives it such a natural glow. It can also be applied using the Chisel Brush.

  

The final step is the Big Look Mascara, which is actually a full sized product, making this kit great value. The mascara comes in a gorgeous pink packaging, reminiscent of a lip gloss, and I must admit that I thought it was at first sight!

 

 

 

 

The mascara has spiky plastic bristles that easily grabs every single lash, even the tiny ones in the corners of the eye, and gives them both length, thickness and curl, and separates them nicely too - and from the very first use. Not one of those mascaras that is absolutely hopeless for the first dozen uses clogging your lashes together. But rather it gives your lashes a lovely fanned look. I also like that you can build it up for quite dramatic lashes, and the fact that the mascara has been infused with argan oil so that it protects the lashes and hydrates them at the same time. No wonder this mascara is a best seller!

 

 

Overall I have really enjoyed putting these products from Pur Minerals to the test. They are lovely to use, make the skin look great. I particularly loved the Primer which is so perfect for my combination skin, the bronzer which gives my skin such a radiant glow, and then the mascara, which was just great from the word go. I also loved using the Chisel Brush, and know I'll be using it over and over. That actually only leaves the Foundation - and while I did enjoy using it, and find the little compact great when you're on the go, I'm still more partial to liquid foundations, and wouldn't mind putting a few from their range to the test.

 

 

Pur Minerals Best Sellers Kit 5-piece beauty-to-go Collection - RRP: $59 

Available from Myer

 

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

 

  

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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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HAPPY NEW YEAR - FEATURING PARTY FAVOURITES

Happy New Year everyone. Thanks to everyone for all the support throughout 2016, I really appreciate how you've all stuck by me in a time where I had other things on my mind. 2016 has been a tough year for our little family, and one that has been dominated with hospital visits for our little boy, and stressing about how he would recover. While our boy is a tough little cooking, and is doing really well, the battle isn't over yet, and the next year will also be dominated by speaking to lots of doctors, I am so looking forward to the start a new year and what can only be better and happier year for our little family. 

With two little toddlers, there are no huge New Year's party in sight for me, but regardless, here are a couple of my ultimate party essentials, some of which are also some of my fave products from 2016…

This Cool Clutch is simply so beautiful that it has to be the clutch of choice for the last and first party of the year. It is hand sown with hundreds of pearls and diamantes, and is sure to dress up any outfit and be the statement of the party. It also has an insulated so your makeup won't melt in the heat of the night.

On my eyes, I just can't get enough of the Lancome Grandiose Mascara. Applying it takes a little getting used to, but once you've mastered the different comb angles, it gives the best fluttering lashes, as close to fakes as you can possibly come.

On my lips, I just cannot get enough of the Sisley Paris Phyto Lip Gloss in the shade Rouge as it simply has the most beautiful intense red shade with a nice glossy look and it stay put for hours. Perfect for a night out.

And of course, what's a party without a bit of glow, and for that, I have to reach for the Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick, which just gives the most yet natural glow.

Then on to a spritz of perfume, and just cannot go past one of this years great releases, the CK ONE GOLD from Calvin Klein. It has the most beautiful fresh fruity scent that makes it great for a hot summer night, and just cannot get enough of that beautiful golden bottle.

Finally, cannot neglect the nails, so a couple of coats of the Attitude Attitude, a beautiful red shade from Essie, and all is set.

The drink of choice would have to be the Prosecco Ice, as it has such a refreshing fruity taste. It is a very fragrant Spumante that is great with ice and a slice or lime or a couple of mint leaves, or go the classic way and add a strawberry of two.



Wishing everyone a very happy, healthy and safe New Year.

Karina x



Lancome Grandiose Mascara - RRP: $54
Available from Lancome Counters

Sisley Paris Phyto Lip Gloss in Rouge - $65
Available from Sisley Paris

Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick - RRP: $75
Available from Bobbi Brown

Calvin Klein CK ONE GOLD Edt - RRP: $69 / 100ml
Available from select pharmacies and department stores.

Essie Nail Polish - RRP: $16.95
Available from Priceline and department stores

Cool Clutch Pearl Cool Clutch - RRP: $129.99, but currently on sale for $100
Available from Cool Clutch

Prosecco Ice - RRP: $14.99/ 750ml
Available from Dan Murphy's and BWS

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

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