PRODUCT REVIEW: VESTIGE VERDANT ORGANC PEET MASK, PURE BRILLIANCE MICELLAR CLEANSING WATER, ABSOLUTE HYDRANCE DAY CREAM AND COMPLETE RECOVERY NIGHT CREAM

Some time ago, I put a range of products to the test from a Vestige Verdant (you can read more about them here!). I really enjoyed the products so excitedly accepted when I was offered to trial some of the brands updated as well as new products.

PRODUCT REVIEW: MEDIK8 ADVANCED NIGHT RESTORE, ADVANCED NIGHT EYE, LIQUID PEPTIDES, WHITE BALANCE BRIGHTENING SERUM AND MICELLAR MOUSSE

PRODUCT REVIEW: NATURA SIBERICA NORTHERN DETOX SOAP, BLACK CLEANSING BUTTER AND MICELLAR WATER

NEUTROGENA LAUNCHES THE DEEP CLEAN PURIFYING RANGE // PRODUCT REVIEW

PRODUCT REVIEW: ESSENTIALS FROM NIVEA INCL NIVEA CREME, MICELLAR AND DEODORANTS

Growing up in Denmark, one of those brands I remember we always had in the house, was Nivea.... 

This was before the time of the cheap air fares and duty free shopping, but each summer, my family and I would drive the couple of hours south to cross the German border, and shop in the large supermarkets there, on our way south on our summer holiday. And one of the products we always stocked up on, was the Nivea Creme, which came in huge blue aluminium tins. Don't get me wrong, we could purchase these in Denmark, but just not that big, and they cost a lot more. We used it on everything.

The dry hands after a day in the garden, a thick layer on to the feet before putting on socks for an intensive foot treatment, or in the 80's I used to use it to calm down frizz and give my 80's perm a new life with intense moisture between washes.

It can be used as a face moisturiser too, but it is a little too intense for my combination skin prone to breakouts, but I do like using it on my body, and in particularly knees, elbows and feet, if its extra dry, especially during winter.

This thick creme was first introduced back in 1911 and has since then become a cult classic. And no wonder, as it really is amazing. I always have a jar handy, as it is such a great multi tasker. The creme is made using the world’s first stable oil-in-water cream created by pharmacist and owner of Beiersdorf, Dr.Oscar Troplowitz, and leading dermatologist, Professor Paul Gerson Unna, following their discovery of a new kind of emulsifier, called “Eucerit”. Together with chemist Dr. Isaac Lifschutz. In addition to Eucerit, the Crème also contains glycerine and a little citric acid, fragranced with rose and lily of the valley oils, which gives it a lovely subtle floral scent. An amazing cream that should be a stable in any beauty cabinet. 

But as years have passed, Nivea has launched new products, which are equally amazing. This includes their deodorants, which include the Nivea Invisible for Black and White Fresh Aerosol Spray and Roll-on deodorants. These deodorants have a unique formula that helps prevent those dreaded yellow deodorant and sweat stains from developing on your white clothes, and those annoying white powdery deodorant marks on your black clothes. 

The deodorant has a new technology that works by using aluminium salts to dissolve white residue in an emulsion, masked with oil, to form a protection and barrier around the textile fibres, before staining from sweat and deodorant can stick to the fabric, to make them easier to remove in the wash. At the same time the deodorant is very gentle on the skin, and offers a 48-hour protection against both odour and perspiration,

The deodorants have a powdery fresh scent from notes of bergamot, white tea and sandalwood, which lingers on the skin throughout the day, while still being so subtle that the scent wont clash with your perfume, and it really does leave me feeling fresh smelling and protected throughout the day. The deodorant is available in both an aerosol and a roll-on version, but I prefer to use a roll-on, but that's just personal preference. But overall, I really love these deodorants as they care and protect both me and my clothes!

For the skin, I am also currently enjoying the Nivea Daily Essentials Caring Micellar Water. This gentle miceallar water has tiny surface active agent molecules or micelles that are suspended in water, and when you apply the product to a cotton pad and wipe it over your face, the micelles break and help to pull dirt, grime and oil off the surface of the skin, and thereby gently removes all makeup, dirt and excess serum.

It feels gentle and lovely on my skin, and with a cotton pad, it easily removes my makeup, through I do feel it struggles a little when I'm wearing particularly long-wearing or waterproof makeup, but generally I feel that's the case for most micellar waters.

The Nivea Daily Essentials Caring Micellar Water has been enriched with Vitamin E, and it helps care for the skin and moisturise it, leaving it feeling soft and smooth, while also helping to alleviate the signs of sensitive skin including redness, tightness and dryness. I also love that it is made free from parabens and colours and it is fragrance free too.

This is a great micellar water, and the fact that it is now available in an even bigger size, makes it even more affordable than ever!


Nivea Creme - RRP: $4.20 / 60ml, $7.99 / 150ml
Nivea Invisible for Black & White Fresh Aerosol - RRP: $6.59 / 250ml
Nivea Invisible for Black & White Fresh Roll-On - RRP: $3.79
Nivea Daily Essentials Caring Micellar Water - RRP: $11.99 / 400ml

Available nationally from supermarkets, variety stores, Priceline selected pharmacies

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


Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |

PRODUCT REVIEW: BIODERMA SEBIUM

My skin has been really temperamental and hormonal lately, so when a selection of the products from the Bioderma Sebium range landed on my desk, I happily put them to the test..

The Bioderma Sebium range is a range of products targeted those with oily to combination skin, skin prone to acne. Breakouts and acne is not just something that occurs in puberty, adolescents do not have total control over acne either, and as in my case, blemishes continues to persist, even now where anti-ageing products would be more appropriate.

All the Bioderma Sebium products are patented with the Fluidactiv patent that helps reduce and purify sebum in order to reduce the clogging in the pores and eliminate blemishes on the long term.

For the past couple of weeks I have been using;

• Sébium H20 Micelle Solution
• Sébium Cleansing Foaming Gel
• Sébium Exfoliating Purifying Gel
• Sébium Global Purifying Cream
• Sébium Pore Refiner

The Bioderma Sébium H20 Micelle Solution is a micelle water, which I a makeup removing water specifically targeted for oily and combination skin. It is perfect for those who prefer a product that does not need to be rinsed off, but yet can still remove all traces of makeup, impurities including dirt and sebum, all while being super gentle on the skin, and not dry it out thanks to being PH balanced. In addition, it helps to regulate sebum quality and keep the pores from becoming clogged by purifying the skin ad limiting sebaceous secretion and this helping to clear up the skin. To use, you simple soap a cotton pad and gently wipe it over the face, and continue until the cotton pad is clean. I love that this one comes in a reversed pump bottle, which makes it even easier to use too. And absolute winner if you ask me, as it leaves my skin feeling clean, soft and fresh.

The Sébium Cleansing Foaming Gel is a foaming soap-free cleansing gel, which again cleanses the skin super gently from all impurities, while leaving the skin feeling clean deep down every pore. And again, it helps limit the formation of blemishes thanks to helping to regulate the sebum produced by the skin. I like splashing water in my face as I wash it, so I really like using this one, and have been using it as a second cleanse after removing my makeup, sometimes with my Clairsonic for added benefit.

The Bioderma Sébium Exfoliating Purifying Gel, which is an scrub that refines the skin texture, tightens pores and brightens the complexion while preventing the formation of blemishes. It is to be used once or twice a week, and I like to use it in the shower for a few moments. It contains gentle micro beads as well as gycolic and salicylic acid to help speed up the cell renewal and eliminate impurities.

Next is the Bioderma Sébium Pore Refiner, which is corrective care for enlarged pores. It is to be used after cleansing, either alone or before your moisturiser. It can be used either all over the face, or just locally on the t-zone area depending on need, and it is designed to help correct the skin's appearance so the texture becomes finer, more regular and clearer, and pores become more tightened and less visible, thanks to containing agaric acid, a powerful astringent. At the same time, like the rest of the products in the range, it also helps regulate sebum to prevent pores becoming clogged up and the skin breaking out. I have been using on my t-zone during the day, and love how it immediately has a mattifying effect, which also means that it works perfectly under makeup too

Then there's the Bioderma Sébium Global Intensive Purifying Care, which is a cream that is intended for those with acne prone skin with severe blemishes, so again perfect for my skin's current state. The cream helps treat the cause and consequence of blemishes, and helps restore the sebum of healthy skin to prevent severe blemishes. It contains among others AHA to help clear skin from spots and blackheads as well as zinc gluconate and enoxolonto to soothe and reduce redness cause by inflammation. As well as clearing and purifying the skin, it also helps reduce the residual marks after breakouts. The cream is to be used morning and night, and it is quit light and absorbs quickly into the skin, and leaves it soft and hydrated. I also love that it works perfectly under makeup, and has the bonus of keeping my skin more matte so consequently my makeup stays looking nice for longer.

Overall I am really loving these products from Bioderma, as they so effective on my blemish prone skin, and yet are so gentle. I also love the fact that they are all free from parabens and AKN

When I started using these, my skin was going through a very bad patch, but I am convinced that using these helped get it back under control again. My skin is still not perfect, so I can see myself continuing to use these products, as well as there are several other products in the range I'm very keen on adding to the routine including the Global Cover, AI and the Serum.

Bioderma Sébium H20 Micelle Solution - RRP: $42.99 / 500mBioderma Sébium Cleansing Foaming Gel - RRP: $25.99 / 200mlBioderma Sébium Exfoliating Purifying Gel RRP: $26.99 / 200mlBioderma Sébium Global Purifying Cream - RRP: $29.99 / 30mlBioderma Sébium Pore Refine - RRP: $36.99 / 30ml

Bioderma is available from Adore Beauty, Priceline, RY and select pharmacies

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


Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |

PRODUCT REVIEW: GARNIER SKINACTIVE MICELLAR CLEANSING WATER IN OIL AND MICELLAR CLEANSING WIPES IN OIL

I think everyone have fallen in love with micellar waters and cleansing wipes these days. I definitely have, so today I'm excited to share with you to new product releases from Garnier SkinActive, the Micellar Cleansing Water in Oil and the Micellar Cleansing Wipes in Oil.
 

Let's start with the Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water in Oil. Now this is a very unique formula, as usually micellar waters do not contain oil, so in actual fact, this looks a bit like one of those two-phase makeup removers with oil for waterproof eye makeup that you need to shake before using! And likewise, this Micellar Water also needs a good shake before using it and then it really is like a waterproof makeup remover for the whole face! And the oil in the formula does mean that it quickly and easily removes all makeup, including those long-wearing foundation that are usually very tricky to remove (think Estee Lauder Double Wear or Revlon ColorStay!), in just a few wipes, and it also does your waterproof mascara and eyeliner, and all without the need to rub or pull at the sensitive eye area. My eyes are usually very sensitive, but this formula worked on my eye makeup without any issue, or tears! The formula does claim that it is non-greasy and doesn’t need to be rinsed off afterwards, but I must admit that I did feel that it made my skin feel slightly greasy - maybe not immediately after removing my makeup where my skin felt soft and clean, but a few hours afterwards, I guess it really showed. So personally I find that it is a perfect cleanser for a first cleanse to remove all makeup, before following with a second cleanse with a more deep cleansing product, which is also needed for my blemish prone skin.

The Micellar Water comes in a huge 400ml bottle, which it is claimed is sufficient to a massive 200 applications - I am not quite sure if the bottle will last me that long as I did feel I needed to use several soaked cotton pads (the negative of micellar waters!) to remove all my makeup, but the bottle will still last me a long time. Also worth mentioning is that it has the most gorgeous scent.

Then there's the Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Wipes in Oil. Ok, I admit that I am not a huge user of makeup wipes, and predominantly use them when I travel long-haul flights to Europe and in that case find that they are excellent for cleansing the face mid-flight. And I am also a big lover of them for when I'm swatching makeup during day for the blog. I find that most cleansing wipes struggle removing my makeup, they completely give up on my eye makeup including waterproof mascara, and I never really feel my skin is completely clean either after using a facial wipe, - something that is essential when you have skin prone to breakouts. But these new Micellar Cleansing Wipes in Oil are different as they actually do a pretty good job at removing pretty much all of my makeup, so big thumbs up there. The wipes have a decent size and are soft and feel very gentle on the skin, and leaves the skin smooth too and without drying it out. Again, due to the oil content, I do feel that they leave my skin slightly greasy afterwards, but like the Micellar Water, these wipes are no doubt brilliant for drier skin types. 



However, all in all, these are great additions to the Garnier SkinActive product range, and I do love that both are so efficient at removing even longwearing and waterproof makeup, so I have no doubt that I will be purchasing especially the Micellar Water again.


Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water in Oil - RRP: $14.99 / 400ml
Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Wipes in Oil - RRP: $7.99 / 25 wipes


Available from Priceline, variety stores, and select pharmacies and supermarkets

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


Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |

PRODUCT REVIEW: AVENE EAU THERMALE CLEANANCE MICELLAR WATER AND TRIACNEAL EXPERT

The last few months my skin has gone absolutely bonkers with breakouts. I've always struggled with my skin, ever since I was a teenager, and while I've learnt how to look after it to minimise breakouts, every now and again I do get a flare up, even at the age where anti-ageing products should be the only products on my bathroom shelf! So I was also happy to put some products from Avene to the test to try combat the breakouts and get my skin under control again.. Here I'm going to talk about the Avene eau Thermals Cleanance Micellar Water and the TriAcneal Expert Emulsion.

The Avene Eau Thermale Cleanance Micellar Water is a makeup remover that doesn't need to be rinsed off, while still removing makeup, impurities and excess.

It claims to remove all makeup from face and eyes, including waterproof makeup, but I have to say that I do struggle a little bit with the mascara, and have been resorting to specific eye makeup remover. But as for the rest of my makeup, including long-wearing foundation, it removes in a single swipe or two with a soaked cotton pad. It leaves my skin soft and clean and refreshed and also mattified, and I can tell that it is also removing any excess sebum, especially from my t-zone area, yet without irritating my skin or making it feel dry or tight.

Over time, the Cleanance Micellar Water promises to help regulate the over-production of sebum, as well as soothe the skin with its anti-irritating benefits, and I can certainly feel that my skin is less greasy. 

I've also liked using it in the mornings, as sometimes when I get up, having two toddlers, it is just go-go-go, which can make it difficult to find the time to properly wash my face. But with this Cleanance Micellar Water I can simply swipe it over my skin, and I know it will gentle remove any 'gunk' and grease that has developed during the night. 

 

 

At night time, I've been using the Avene Eau Thermale TriAcneal Expert, which is an evening moisturiser that comprehensively targets blemishes, marks and is suitable for adult acne, so perfect for my skin.

 

The moisturiser contains among others; 

 

• Diolényl to help limit the proliferation of skin bacteria, reduce redness and eliminate spots and blackheads
• X-Pressin to smooth the skin texture
• Retinaldehyde, a Vitamin A derivative, that has a rejuvenating effect which helps to unblock pores, reduce residual marks and gives added anti-ageing benefits  

The yellow cream has a slightly odd scent, but as it fades quickly, I can certainly tolerate it. Unlike many night creams, it has a light consistency and absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it with a soft, yet mattified finish.

 

Often I find that when I use night creams, they are very thick and rich, too heavy for my combination skin, and I wake in the morning, with skin that's feeling greasy and congested. But that is not the case with this cream. My skin still feels matte in the morning, and at the same time, also moisturised, and far from dried out - something most other blemish creams seem to do.

  

But what's more, after using this cream nightly for just a few days, I started noticing that I wasn't getting as many breakouts, - I still got some, but not to the same extent, and also a lot smaller too and not those big lumpy ones. And what also impressed me, is that the cream, in such a short period of time has reduced redness and marks from previous blemishes and even old acne scars appear somewhat reduced. So in general, my skin is simply looking so much clearer and healthier. I'm truly impressed, so I already know that I will be purchasing this cream again and again -and if you too struggle finding a good moisturiser for your acne prone skin, one that treats and doesn’t dry out your skin or irritate it, then I highly recommend that you check it out too. And what's even better, is that both products are very budget friendly too.   

 

 

Avene Eau Thermale Cleanance Micellar Water - RRP: $34.95 / 400ml

Avene Eau Thermale TriAcneal Expert - RRP: $26.95 / 30ml

 

Available from Priceline and select pharmacies

 

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

 

 

Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |

PRODUCT REVIEW: LUST HAVE IT JANUARY 2016

The January Lust Have It Box arrived the other day, here are my thoughts on this month’s contents;

What They Say

Lust Have It boxes regularly contains products worth $60+ for only $19.95/month! Monthly box filled with 5 to 6 premium beauty samples. Delivered to your home or work each month for you to try.

RRP: Lust Have It Box (monthly) RRP: $19.95, Eco Box (quarterly) RRP: $29.95 – but if you use my unique code LIFESTYLE at the checkout on the Lush Have It website, you are eligible for $5 off your first box from Lust Have It, and at the same time you’ll also be supporting Beauty & Lifestyle Hunter, as I will get a few dollars too if someone subscribes using this code. Available from Lust Have It

What I Say:

Like previous months, this months’ products arrived in a pink mesh bag, and this month it included three full sized items and two deluxe sample sizes.

Unani Micellar Water – Full Size (RRP: $22.50/200ml)

I’ve never heard of this brand before, so bonus points right there as I love trying new brands, which is also one of the key reason I really like subscription boxes. This micellar water has a beautiful gentle floral scent and claims to remove impurities, and purify the skin, leaving it soft and hydrated. Unlike other micellar waters I’ve come across and use, it does not mention anything about removing makeup, it is almost like it is more of a toner with moisturising benefits. Regardless, I do look forward to trying it out.

Hikari Blush – Full Size (RRP: $21/6g)

I have previously received Hikari products in a subscription box, but from memory it was an eyeshadow quad in shades I wouldn’t normally use, so it is more than likely sitting untouched in my stash of makeup. This blush, in the shade ‘Bikini’ is a pinky peach shade with a light shimmer, a shade that I’d normally reach for, so I do look forward to seeing how the quality and wear stacks up.

Hikari Lip Crayon – Full Size (RRP: $18/2.5g)

Another product from Hikari – and while I don’t mind terribly as I do like lip crayons, I would on the other hand have preferred if it had been from another brand for a bit more variety in the box. The info card mentions you’d either get the shade Sunkissed or Amour, yet I actually got the shade ‘Macchiato’!! Go figure! Anyway, the shade ‘Macchiato’ is a warm peach shade, not my usual choice, but regardless, a lovely shade.

Skinyoga Almond Face Scrub – Sample, 5.67g (RRP: $24/50g)

Another new brand, yay! And from the first glance at the packaging I was in love. Small timber crates, what a novel idea – although they would be a bit wasted as soon as the product is taken out – except my little 2.5 year old boy is currently pirate obsessed, and he quickly declared that they were ‘treasure chests’, so as soon as I’d taken the photos, the empty boxes disappeared into his pirate ship! LOL!

The actual the product is made from 100% natural ingredients and claim to hydrate, nourish and repair damage from excessive use of chemicals while exfoliating the skin and removing dead skin cells, and even lightening scars with regular use! The face scrub comes in a little glass bottle with a cork lid – again I’m loving this as its just so different, even down to the cork lid that you hardly ever get in wine bottles anymore! The actual scrub is a yellowish powder that is prepared by mixing it with water. All in all sound pretty good to me, so cannot wait to try it out.

Skinyoga Sandalwood and saffron facemask – Sample, 5g (RRP: $24/50g)

Another product from Skinyoga – and as with the Hikari, I am excited to try more from this brand, I would yet again have preferred a product from another brand for more variety in the box. As with the Face Scrub, the Face Mask comes in the timber crate and in a glass bottle with the cork lid, and it also has to be made up by mixing it with water. This face mask is intended for dry skin, and as I have combination skin, I am a little more hesitant putting this mask to the test, also because my skin has been particularly troublesome lately with breakouts so don’t really want to bug it too much.

So there you have it, the contents in the January Lust Have It box which contains a combination of skincare and makeup products, although unfortunately only from three different brands. The value of this months box is quite reasonable at almost $70 (the Skinyoga products both have price tags of $4.20!), although in terms of value, previous boxes have exceeded this.

In terms of the products, I am generally quite impressed, as the Unani micellar water will always be useful, the Hikari blush has a lovely colour and the Skinyoga scrub I also cant wait to try. As for the Hikari lip crayon I am not sure I’ll really like the shade and the Skinyoga face mask doesn’t really fit my skin type, so I may pass these onto a friend.  So all in all a resonable start to the year, not brilliant, seeing I am unsure about two out of five products, but certainly not bad either – bring on the February box!

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

Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |

 

PRODUCT REVIEW: LUST HAVE IT - AUGUST 2014

Yesterday the *Lust Have It August box arrived at my door step, here are my thoughts;

What They Say:

Lust Have It boxes regularly contains products worth $60+ for only $19.95/month! Monthly box filled with 5 to 6 premium beauty samples. Delivered to your home or work each month for you to try.


RRP: Lust Have It Box (monthly) RRP: $19.95, Eco Box (quarterly) RRP: $29.95 – but if you use my unique code LIFESTYLE at the checkout on the Lush Have It website, you are eligible for $5 off your first box from Lust Have It, and at the same time you’ll also be supporting Beauty & Lifestyle Hunter, as I will get a few dollars too if someone subscribes using this code.

Available from Lust Have It 



What I Say:

This month the goodies again arrived in a pink see-through mesh bag, and this is what was in it;

 

BIO ELIXIA Body Shaper Stretch Mark Diminishing Cream – Full Size (RRP $39/125ml)

 

This cream promises to visible improve the appearance of stretchmarks, skin texture and discolouration. I have previously tried this, (see my full review here), and while I like it and it will most definitely be put to good use, and the full sized product obviously adds great value to the box – I would naturally have been more excited to have received a product that I had not previously tried. But again, as I really like it, and more than likely would have repurchased it again in the future, at least it saves me having to go get it, which is still a good thing! 


ELEVEN AUSTRALIA Miracle Hair Treatment – Full Size (RRP 24.95/125ml)

Another full sized product. Impressive. Yet again I have previously tried this hair treatment (see my full review here), and apart from the coconut scent I really like this treatment. And I love that it contains UVA and UVB filters so it protects my hair from sun damage as we head towards summer. Again, a great addition to the box and I am not complaining about getting a backup of a product I already love, but would, again, naturally have been more excited to receive a product that was new to me.  

 
 

 

ESSENZZA Fuss Free Natural Facial Cleansing Wipes with Aloe Vera + Cucumber – Full Size + mini pack (RRP $6.95/25 wipes, RRP $2.50/8 wipes)
 

 

 

 

 

I have never heard of this brand before, so a big tick for that as I love learning and trialling new products. However, in saying that, I don’t use facial wipes all that much as I simply prefer to use a gel cleanser and splash water in my face. But I do use them when I swatch makeup products for the blog, so they will never go to waste – and also I use them when I go on long-haul flighs – and as I will be heading off to Europe next week, timing is great. 

 

  

 

BIODERMA Crealine H20 – Sample Size, 20ml (RRP $29.99 AUD for 250ml)
 

 

 

 

 

I really like this Micellar water, but I have previously tried it and already own a full sized bottle, so sadly, again, the novelty factor is not there for me. But again, as I really like this product, the small sample size come at a perfect time as it will be perfect for me to bring on the plane when I take off next week!

 

 

 

 

MARSK Eyeshadow Brush Pro-Line – Full Size (RRP $28.95)
 

 

 

 

 

I had never heard of this brand before until I received an Eyeshadow in last month’s box. The Full sized product. The brush seems to be of a good quality, and as you can never have too many makeup brushes, I love the inclusion of this one! 

 

   

In addition there were also couple bonus discount vouchers that were included in box: 

 

  

• BioElixia – 20% off when you purchase online
• Zodee - $20 Voucher when you spend $70 or more
• Style Thread: 20% off when you spend $75 or more
• Misguided – 20% off
• Quickflix – 6 weeks of free home delivered DVDs and Blu-rays

 

 

I do like the inclusion of the vouchers, but to be quite honest, I am not sure if I will make use of any of them – the one I would be most likely to use would be the Quickflix, but as we’re already members and have been for years, unfortunately I cannot make use of the voucher!

 

 

So what’s my verdict on the box…. This is a birthday box and with the teaser card included in last month’s box, I was expecting huge things! Am I disappointed – No, I am not, as the included products are great value, and certainly worth far more than the box, and I love in particularly both the BioElixia and the ELEVEN Miracle Treatment – but the products just didn’t wow me as I already know and love them – and to me, the beauty of a subscription box is to be introduced to new products.

 

 

So while I am not as impressed with this box as I have been with previous boxes, on the other hand, I am certainly not complaining getting top-ups of products I already like + a new makeup brush, wipes and a travel sized cleaner for my upcoming holiday.

 

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

 

 

 

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

 

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

 
 

Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |

 

Product Review: Violet Box April 2014

How time flies, another month bites the dust, and it is yet again time for a beauty box review. Here are my thoughts on the *April Violet Box;

 

What They Say:

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

 

RRP: You can subscribe to Violet Box for:

1 month – $22.95
3 months - $66.00
6 months - $130
12 months - $250

- Available from Violet Box
 

What I Say:

Some beauty boxes seems to be regularly changing their packaging, but Violet Box seems to stick with the same matte black box, which personally I like, as they look simple and elegant when I reuse them for storing other little titbits.

Anyway, this is what was in the April Violet Box…

 

Villainess Dulces en Fuego Whipped! Body Creme – Sample jar (RRP: $15.00/170g)

 

I was first introduced to the Villainess Dulces en Fuego in the January Violet Box, but not tried other products from the brand so I am excited to see the inclusion again, and this time of a more useable body cream. It a sweet but spicy scent, and feels lovely on the skin. Hopefully there will be enough to cover my whole body, unless I save it and use it as a hand cream so I can enjoy the fragrance a little more!

Bioderma Crealine H2O – Sample, 20ml (RRP: $19.95/100ml, $29.95/250ml, $39.95/500ml)

 

I have read so many rave reviews about this makeup remover but yet to try it myself. I believe it to be the original Micellar cleansing water, but I have only tried the new Micellar Water from Garnier, so I am quite excited to see how this one compares, and see if it is worth the hype and higher price tag too. However, the bottle is rather tiny, so you won’t get many goes from it, so I would ideally have liked to see the sample being a little larger.
 

Cedel Scented Hairspray in Oriental Blossom – Full Size - (RRP: $4.99/100g)

 

Finally – a hair spray that smells nice. Who isn’t over the average smelling ones that have been dominating the market for years. This hairspray guarantees to keep your hair in place while smelling amazing all day long. I also love the bright packaging of this hair spray. While this is a full sized product, it is small in comparison with other hairsprays, but it is perfect for weekends away. Also available in two other scents , Coconut Bay and Raspberry Punch, which I wouldn’t mind putting to the test as well. And of course also big bonus points to Cedel for supporting Breast Cancer research.

 

Be a Bomshell Eyeliner in Midnight – Full Size (RRP: $19)

This is not the first time Be a Bombshell cosmetics have appeared in Violet Boxes. Generally I like being introduced to new brands, so on one hand I would have loved to see a new brand – but on the other, all the Be a Bomshell products that I’ve tried so far have been pretty good, so I don’t mind the inclusion of this marker style liquid eyeliner. The shade Midnight is a very dark navy shade, which admittedly is not a colour that I’d wear very often, but as it is so dark, and you could almost mistake it for a charcoal, I might even give it a go. I did try it out on my hand, and it is extremely long wearing, lasting several hand washes, and doing the dishes as well!!

Teeez Trend Cosmetics Chain of Stones Nail Lacquer in Melted Copper  - Full Size (RRP: $15/8.5ml)

 

I have never heard of this brand before, so the inclusion does excite me. The colour Melted Copper is a lovely copper shade with a hint of orange, and it has a holographic finish. I haven’t tried a holographic nail polish before, so I cannot wait to play with it, and the colour is just perfect as we head towards winter.

Yet again another Violet Box that I am impressed with. It contains three full sized products, all of which I am happy with and can’t wait to try, and the two sample sized products are great additions too. I am also pleased with the combination of products in the box, haircare, body care, facial care, nails and makeup – in fact, couldn’t be better! IF I had to be picky, it is that products from the same brands, in this case Be a Bombshell and Villainess Dulces en Fuego, and ideally I’d love to see new brands included, but again, that is just me being picky as I do like and look forward to using these products.

So yet again, Violet Box is keeping their consistently high quality of their boxes, so well don’t Violet Box! I am already looking forward to seeing what will be included in the next Violet Box!

…in saying that, Violet Box has already given a sneak peak into the May Box, ‘introducing the Goldwell StyleSign Sleep Perfection….’ Sounds pretty good to me!!

  

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

What do you think of the products of this month’s 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..

Product Review: Garnier Skin Naturals Micellar Cleansing Water

I think Micellar cleansing waters have taken the whole world by storm by now. Except me, I must be about the only beauty blogger not yet to have jumped onto the craze. Not that I haven’t wanted to, but I’ve simply had a stash of other products that I have wanted to finish up first before buying new products. But then I was asked if I wanted to trial the new *Garnier Skin Naturals Micellar Cleansing Water, and of course I just couldn’t resist. Here are my thoughts;

What They Say:

"Harnessing the active cleansing principles of micells, Garnier’s Micellar Cleansing Water efficiently captures and removes excess sebum, impurities and makeup without the need for rubbing. Perfect on all skin types; its revolutionary formula thoroughly cleanses the face, eyes and lips whilst soothing the skin’s delicate surface delivering an effortlessly refreshed and nourished complexion."

 

RRP: $11.95 (400ml) – Available from Priceline, pharmacies and supermarkets

What I Say:

What I really love about this new Micellar Cleansing Water is that it is a multi-purpose product, designed to be an all-in-one makeup remover – no longer any need for both a cleanser and an eye makeup remover. Brilliant if you ask me!

The Micellar Cleansing Water, doesn’t have this name for no reason, it really does feel like water. And it doesn’t have any smell either.

 

So is this water really efficient in removing all my makeup? And the answer is a clear yes. And I am very impressed too, that it effectively removes all my makeup, including longwearing foundation and eye makeup. Even my waterproof mascara vanishes without the need to tear, rub or pull at my sensitive eye area. This truly is brilliant.

 

 

After use my skin feels soft and clean, and excess grease and sebum has also been cleansed away, yet without drying out my skin or stripping it from essential moisture. And without leaving a greasy film behind on my skin, so I can apply my moisturiser immediately.

The Micellar Cleansing Water comes in a huge 400ml bottle, and according to the bottle, Garnier claims that there are over 200 uses in the bottle. Now while I am nowhere near finished the bottle and cannot verify this claim, but that is impressive. And I can say that it is very concentrated, so you really only need a little. I use it on a cotton pad, which I gently wipe over my face to remove my makeup. And to ensure that my skin is completely clean, I do this twice, although I don’t always think that it is necessary. And what is also worth noting is that it is not necessary to rise with water to remove. But in saying that, I do like to follow with a toner on a cotton pad, just to make sure that my face is completely clean.

 

What I Like:

• Very well priced for such a large 400ml bottle
• Very concentrated, with the claim of lasting for over 200 uses!
• Has no scent
• Multi-purpose as it removes both foundation as well as eye makeup
• Very gentle on the skin, and doesn’t dry it out
• Doesn’t leave a greasy film on my skin

What I Don’t Like:

• I really have no negatives to say about this micellar cleansing water. It does exactly as it promises, and on top, it is very well priced compared to similar competitive products.

Overall, I am now not surprised why everyone is so loving micellar waters, as this truly is such a brilliant product multi-purpose product. I love how it easily removes every trace of all my makeup, and without drying out my skin, and without the need to drag or pull at my sensitive eye area. No wonder everyone is raving about micellar waters – and at this price, I will definitely be purchasing the Micellar Cleansing Water from Garnier again, and highly recommend that you try it too!

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

 

Have you ever tried a micellar cleansing water? Which one do you recommend?