PRODUCT REVIEW // INIKA ORGANIC DETOXIFYING CLAY MASK, RENEW AND RESTORE PEEL, ADAPTOGENIC CLEANSING OIL, HYDRATING TONING MIST AND BB CREAM - AUSTRALIAN NATURAL ORGANIC SKINCARE

How stunning are these from Inika Organic - @inikaorganic - just so sleek, elegant and luxurious. #ad 

PRODUCT REVIEW: SKINSTITUT - POTENT AND HIGHLY EFFECTIVE, YET SUPER AFFORDABLE COSMECEUTICAL SKINCARE PRODUCTS AT AFFORDABLE PRICES

I have previously talked about the Australian brand Skinstitut, and today I am very excited to be putting some further products from heir large range to the test…

PRODUCT REVIEW; ANDALOU NATURALS PUMPKIN HONEY GLYCOLIC BRIGHTENING MASK AND TUMERIC + C ENLIGHTEN SERUM

Recently I’ve heard a lot of hype about Andalou Naturals, as the products have recently become available in Australia through Priceline and Nourished Life. Andalou is a cruelty free American brand that uses a minimum of 98 per cent natural ingredients with the signature ingredient being Fruit Stem Cell Science with a potent antioxidant defence system in a targeted liposome delivery system. This blend of nature’s most potent bioactive stem cells from the Heirloom Apple, Grape, Swiss Alpine Rose and the Argan Tree deliver a specific action targeting our skin cells, supporting skin protection and radiance.

PRODUCT REVIEW: PIXI SKINTREATS GLOW TONIC, GLOW MUD CLEANSER AND GLOW PEEL PADS FROM BEAUTOPIA

I was recently introduced to Beautopia Hair & Beauty  which is an Australian company selling a large range of premium hair and beauty products, both online, and through their stores. And I was quite excited when they reached out and offered that I could try some of the products available in their store. 

PRODUCT REVIEW: SKEYNDOR POWER RETINOL INTENSIVE REPAIRING EMULSION AND DERMA PEEL PRO RESURFACING PEEL CONCENTRATE 15%

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PRODUCT REVIEW // PHILOSOPHY MICRODELIVERY OVERNIGHT PEEL AND TAKE A DEEP BREATH FROM RY

PRODUCT REVIEW: JUNE JACOBS BRIGHTENING SERUM AND MOISTURISER AND ANTI-AGING BLEMISH CONTROL PEEL PADS FROM SEPHORA

PRODUCT REVIEW: MESOESTETIC ENERGY C PEEL-OFF MASK

One of those cosmeceutical brand that I have really loved lately is mesoestetic, so whenever new products are launched, it always gets me excited. Today I'd like to share with you the Energy C Peel-Off Mask by mesoestetic. 

 

This mask, or should I say masks, as they actually come as 6 individually packed little ones. These masks are dual action mask, featuring both detoxifying and anti-ageing properties.

 

The film-forming mask helps eliminate impurities and dead cells, revealing a fresher, more luminous and revitalised skin. It stimulates collagen and hyaluronic acid synthesis to provide an instant lifting effect, erasing signs of fatigue and expression lines. 

 

The masks contains among others;  

• Chronosmart Peptide to detect what the skin needs at all times by synchronizing skin cell biorhythms producing an intelligent 24-hour action. By day it stimulates the awakening of the skin, promoting its capacity of self-protection, while at night, it increases its ability to repair and renew itself
• Retinol to stimulate cellular renewal and collagen production.
• Phytic Acid which is highly moisturizing, illuminating and improves skin elasticity

 

The masks also contains a high concentration of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), to help effectively respond to the first signs of photo-aging, helping to brighten the skin, boost collagen, eliminate impurities and dead cells, revealing a fresher, more luminous and revitalized looking skin, with a more lifted look, where signs of fatigue and expression lines are lifted.

 

The masks are suitable for tired and stressed skin, and it is recommended to use one 1-2 times a week. To use, you simply apply entire contents of capsule to the face in an even layer, avoiding the sensitive area around the eyes, and leave on for 20 minutes to dry. When completely dry, gently peel of the edge of the mask and remove in an upward direction.

 

I've always found it 'fun' to peel of peel-off masks and these ones are no exception. I love the small 'coffee-pod' style packages, which are also super convenient for taking with you when travelling. And the results are nothing short of amazing. After using just one mask, my skin was clearly brighter and more glowing and radiant, and my skin looked like I had just had the longest beauty sleep of my life (which with two teething toddlers are a thing of the past!!), with any tiredness clearly lessened, and consequently my skin also looked as if it was suddenly years younger. Talking about turning back time!

 

With continued use, these masks clearly have an even bigger impact on the skin, and I feel that the high dose of vitamin C is also helping clear up my skin to the point that I have felt that I've had less of those huge 'under the skin' breakouts that I have otherwise struggled with lately, and those breakouts that I've had, also seem to have cleared up a lot faster than normal.

 

Overall, I am really in love with these Energy C Peel-Off Masks, as they really do give my skin a much needed boost of energy and life, which also makes them perfect to use just before going out to special events etc. Definitely highly recommended.

 

 

mesoestetic Energy C Peel-Off Mask - RRP: $69.50 / 6 x 5ml  

Available from Active Skin, Adore Beauty, RY, Skincare Store,

 

Or for further information please visit Advanced Cosmeceuticals or contact them on 1800 242 011

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

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PRODUCT REVIEW: BLISS PEELING GROOVY FACIAL SERUM, FABULOUS FOAMING FACE WASH AND PORE PERFECTING FACIAL POLISH

Bliss is one of those brands I've heard so many good things about, but just never gotten around to try, so I was pretty excited when the Fabulous Foaming Face Wash, Pore Perfecting Facial Polish and the newly launched Peeling Groovy Facial Serum landed at my door step. 

First up is the Bliss Fabulous Foaming Face Wash which is a 2-in-1 cleanser and exfoliator. This cleanser is oil-free so it is the perfect choice for combination and blemish prone skin like mine. It contains rose hip extract, milk thistle, passion flower and chamomile that helps re-balance the skin, provide healing and antiseptic properties, calm and soothe the skin, all while retaining moisture or strip it from essential oils. The blue thin gel has a beautiful gentle fruity fragrance.

The Cleanser is intended to also be used as a makeup remover, but due to the exfoliating beads, I admit to preferring it as my second cleanser after all my makeup has been removed, as it gives my skin a more thorough and deep cleanse.

The actual exfoliating beads are every so tiny, and made from soft, round synthetic spheres, and you almost don't realise that they are there, which also means that they are so gentle on the skin - but once rinsed off, you can tell that they've worked their magic as the skin feels so incredibly soft and smooth.

I really enjoy using this cleanser, and the fact that it is so gentle that I can still use it daily, without irritating my skin.

Next up is the Bliss Peeling Groovy Facial Serum that promises to gently exfoliate the skin's texture while you sleep, reducing large pores, fine lines and dark sun spots, breakouts and other unevenness, making it brighter and more even.

The serum does not contain AHA's which are known to often irritate sensitive skin types, but rather it uses With moisture-magnetising amino acid exfoliators to gently exfoliate the skin, and it also contains Vitamin C to strengthens collagen, brightens, tightens, and lightens the skin, as well as diminish the appearance of fine lines.

The serum is can be used every night after you've cleansed your face, and hereafter you need to wait 3-5 minutes before applying your usual night cream.

The actual serum is rather thin, and just a few pumps is therefore more than sufficient for the full face as it spreads so easily too.

I have to admit having used stronger and more potent cosmeceutical products, so I was a little curious as to how this one would perform - but I was pleasantly surprised. After just a few uses, I started noticing my skin looking and feeling softer and smoother, and especially some recent darker marks from blemishes fading. I also noticed that my skin appeared to become less and less greasy and a few blemishes seemed to fade and vanish a lot quicker than they otherwise would have.

So while I admit to using an actual gritty facial exfoliator, there is no denying that a chemical one like this one, is equally efficient - as in a few short days it did start to make my skin softer and more refined and with a nice healthy glow. It also seems to be less greasy and simply clearer, and as a result, it also meant that I felt that my makeup not only applied easier, but it also stayed put for longer. And all while still being very gentle and not irritating the skin!

Finally, the Bliss Pore Perfecting Facial Polish, which contains micro-granules to gently polish the skin and buff away dead skin cells, cleaning deep down every pore to remove any excess oils, dirt and grime. Due to the tiny scrubbing particles, this scrub is very gentle, and hence suitable for all skin types. While being gentle, I however, still only recommend using it a few times a week to avoid over-exfoliation of the skin. And as promised, it does indeed leave the skin feeling clean, soft and smooth, and my skin does seem less greasy and more refined after use, without being irritated or left feeling dry. And as always once you've exfoliated the skin, it is looking healthier and more glowing.

All in all, I am really impressed with these two products from Bliss, and I certainly wouldn't mind checking out the rest of their range, including their hand and body products!
Bliss Fabulous Foaming Face Wash - RRP: 29.99 / 197ml
Bliss Peeling Groovy Facial Serum - RRP: $65 / 30ml
Bliss Pore Perfecting Facial Polish - RRP: $39.99 / 119g

Available from Priceline

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

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PRODUCT REVIEW: ALPHA-H BEAUTY SLEEP POWER PEEL FROM ACTIVESKIN

As a mum with an energetic toddler as well as a long-term sick baby, I have a lot of my plate, and these rarely have time for long pampering sessions. So when the Alpha-H Beauty Sleep Power Peel landed on my doorstep from Activeskin, I was naturally very excited, maybe my prayers had been answered...

This Beauty Sleep Power Peel from Alpha-H is a overnight anti-ageing repair serum that both resurfaces and rejuvenates the skin while you sleep.

It contains a cocktail of high-powered active ingredients including 14% Glycolic Acid, 0.5% retinol and fruit enzymes, which combined helps reduce sun-induced ageing, scarring, acne and wrinkles, while also stimulating cellular renewal and boosting collagen, for a clearer and brighter complexion, that is also firmer, tighter and plumper and more hydrated.

Due to the high concentration of active ingredients including the retinol and , you have to be cautious using this treatment, and doing a patch test is always advised. Hereafter, it is recommended to use it two evenings a week, with a gap of a couple of days in between. I is used on clean dry skin, making sure to avoid the sensitive eye area. It is used either on its own (no need to apply night cream on top), or it can alternatively be used on top of a serum.

The peel is easy to apply, and it absorbs quickly into the skin. In spite of being used to retinol and glycolic products, for a few seconds I can feel a slight tingling, but that quickly fades, and is just a sign that the glycolic acid and fruit enzymes are giving the skin a chemical peel to rid it of dead skin cells and excess sebum, to make way for the retinol to penetrate deeper into the skin. The retinol then helps stimulate the production of new cells and helps reduce scarring, sun damage, hyperpigmentation, acne breakouts and wrinkles.

And from the very first use, when I wake in the morning, my skin looks incredible. Soft, smooth, and so energised, healthy and glowing. Absolutely incredible.

After having used the product for a few times a week for a couple of weeks, I am pleased to say that the effects are cumulative and my skin is looking better and better after each use. Little by little I can see that areas with pigmentation is fading, fine lines, and in particular one large frown line between my brows (thanks mum for passing that one on to me!) are softening. But my skin is also feeling less greasy, and consequently I feel that I am getting less breakouts, and those that I have had, have been smaller and have cleared significantly faster than otherwise.

The Beauty Sleep comes in a nifty little jar with a pump top, so you get just the amount of product you need (funnily enough it is the same jar as another of my absolute favourite products, the bhave Fresh Ends Hair treatment, must be a sign that good things come in this cool jar!!)

So overall I am really impressed with this Beauty Sleep Power Peel from Alpha-H as it is delivering exactly what it is promising, a more even-toned, clearer, brighter, firmer and thoroughly hydrated skin - looking just like I've just stepped out of a salon after a long beauty treatment! And all while I sleep!


Alpha-H Beauty Sleep Power Peel - RRP: $129.95 / 50ml
Available from Activeskin for currently $100.62

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

About Activexkin – if you are not familiar with Activeskin, they are an online beauty store stocking over 5000 products. They have a low shipping rate of $6.95, but do offer free shipping when you spend over $95. You can also shop with Activeskin confidence as they not only match a competitor’s price, they will beat their prices by 10% of the difference. They also have a cool rewards system where you accumulate points which can be redeemed against future purchases. And if you need a little help selecting products, you can always just give them a call and a Qualified Skin Expert is there to give you advice.

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PRODUCT REVIEW: VIOLET BOX JANUARY 2015

My Violet Box for January 2015 arrived yesterday the 4^th February, but sadly I didn’t have the time to go collect it from my PO Box, so I had to wait until today.



 I have been sent this box for PR consideration, so I really shouldn’t complain, but if I had been a paid subscriber I wouldn’t be too impressed that the January box arrives a week into the New Year.  I know that January can be a ‘short working month’ when you take the Xmas break, Australia Day etc into consideration, but really that is no excuse!! Anyway, that was just my thoughts, and I just hope that paying subscribers have also received their boxes by now, and that Violet Box manages to catch up so that the February boxes actually will be dispatched and received within the month of February too! Anyway, here are my thoughts on this month’s box;

What They Say:

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

RRP: You can subscribe to Violet Box for:

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

- Available from Violet Box
 

What I Say:

This month the Violet Box comes in a newly designed box, in the slide-out the sign, with black base, and a white lid with a pretty floral water-colour print. So this also means a new design compared to the previous matte black box with the magnetic closure. Personally I prefer the magnetic closing boxes as it makes it easier for use for other things such as small little knickknacks, but on the other hand, I have so many of those boxes by now that I honestly don’t need any more!!!

But this is what was in the January Violet Box…

 

Real Chemistry Luminous 3-Minute Peel – Sample Size, 5ml (RRP: $67/50ml)

 

This is apparently not a mask, you are supposed to cleanse the skin and leave it slightly damp and them spread the gel thinly over the face. Hereafter massage the gel into the skin with circular motions with damp hands until solids are forming under the finger tips and the mask is activating. Massage for a further 2-3 minutes before rinsing off. This sounds very interesting, so I cannot wait to put this to the test. I only with the sample had been a little bigger so there would have been a few more goes in it!

Lonvitalite 24K Active Gold Yulan Eye Mask – Sample, one mask (RRP: $25.95/5 masks)

Like most others I have tried and really love the Lonvitalite cloth face masks but never tried the eye maskes. Being pregnant, and having a toddler that wakes a few times during the night, does mean that I’ve got times I’m feeling a little drained, which shows on the growing bags under my eyes, so I cannot wait to put this to the test, as it promises to help increase the blood circulation, remove dark circles and bags under the eyes.

The Cosmetic Kitchen Raw Chocolate Clay Mask- Full Size (RRP: $24.95/50g)

This is a very interesting mask. It only contains Pink Australian Clay and Raw Cocoa Powder, and you need to mix it with mashed avocado and olive or jojoba oil, or alternatively you can just use water, mixing it into a paste and leaving on the skin for 2-5 minutes for a radiant glow. Unfortunately I already received one of those in another box in December so the novelty is not really there, and I have already tried it out. In saying that, I do like that it is so natural, so it certainly won’t go astray. And I can also tell you that it is a little messy, and as you only need to use about a teaspoon-full of the powder for one application, there is sufficient powder in the bag for heaps of applications, so I would have liked to see it in a re-sealable bag, or even better in a small jar.

Emite Make Up Precision Eye Pencil –Full Size (RRP: $24.95)

 

I have never heard of this brand before, so that excites me as it is always great to try out new brands. This eye pencil in the shade Spir is a cream shade, and it is quite pigmented and also very soft so it will be perfect to use on the waterline to make your eyes appear to be whiter and brighter. I am almost running out of my current one, so happy to see a new replacement so cannot wait to put it to the test.

Mellow Cosmetics Blush – Full Size (RRP: $14/5g)

 

Another brand I’ve never heard of before, YAY! This blush has a lovely pink colour and goes on quite sheer, although is still buildable.  It is silky soft and goes on matte. I love the colour, so I cannot wait to try this one out, so overall a great addition to the box.

So there you go, this month’s contents. Overall It comes with a nice variety of products from a face mask, eye mask, peel, blush and eyeliner. It contains three full sized products, as well as the peel sample and the eye mask sample (as it is otherwise sold in packs of 5). The full sized products alone have a value of $64, so in that respect it is certainly value for money, again just a shame that I’ve already receive the Chocolate Clay mask in another box previously so it doesn’t excite me. In saying that, I will make use of all the products, the blush is a shade I’d normally buy and use, I was in need of a nude eye liner, and the peel, eye mask and also the clay mask will also all be used over time.

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

What do you think of the products of the November Violet Box? Did you get this months’ box too? What did you think? And if not, would you consider subscribing?

And of course, as always, if you’d like to see an in-depth review of any of products in the box, leave me a comment below..

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PRODUCT REVIEW: MESOESTETIC X.PROF 052 GLYCOLIC ACID WITH VIT. E AND F

Once upon a time, when I was working my way up the corporate ladder, and had no mortgage, I’d have regular facials. But then it happened – we bought a house, or rather I should say, built a big house, with a mortgage to match, I stopped working to have my beautiful little boy who is now one year old – and consequently, neither time, nor the finances allow for these little luxuries anymore. So when I was asked to trial the Mesoestetic x.prof 052 Glycolic Acid with Vit. E and F*, I happily accepted, here are my thoughts; 


 

What They Say: 

Mesoestetic’s new Glycolic Acid 10% + Vitamin E&F Ampoules is a renewal solution suitable for all skin types. This once professional only product is now available to consumers. It speeds up the natural skin shedding process removing corneocytes while helping smooth superficial wrinkles. Its’ oil-regulating and prophylactic action helps counter the appearance of blackheads while revitalising suffocated skin.

RRP: $118 (10 x 2ml) – Available from Advanced Cosmeceuticals and Select Stockists

What I Say: 

I have previously tried, and love the John Plunkett Skincare Essentials Glyco Peel 25% Glycolic Acid Night-Time Exfoliator – it has greatly helped improve my skin during a period of serious breakouts, and it comes at a purse-friendly $28.95 for 15ml. 

So if this is so great, you may ask why you would fork out a massive $118?

The Mesoestetic’s new Glycolic Acid 10% + Vitamin E&F Ampoules not only helps gently peel away dead skin cells, it also helps regulate sebum production and consequently reduces the appearance of blemishes and blackheads, all while giving you a softer and smoother looking skin. 

 As well as alpha hydroxyl acid which helps to stimulate cell renewal, the ampoules also contain Vitamin E to help maintain moisture in the skin, as well as Vitamin A to help nourish the skin and regulate the fat metabolism.


The ampoules are best used at night before bedtime, and you simply break off the neck of one ampoule, and apply the whole contents onto your face, neck and décolleté and dab it in until fully absorbed.


As you use a full ampoule per application, there are only 10 treatments in the package. I am unsure if you are meant to use them on 10 consecutive days, but as my skin is used to glycolic acid, and I would not classify it as being sensitive, I have been doing the treatment 10 days in a row.

And after the 10 days – well actually, already the morning after the first application I could tell how soft and smooth my skin was. But after the 10 days I can see a significant difference. My skin is softer than it has been for a very long time, and it is so soft that I cannot help but keep touching it. The major breakouts that I was getting seems to have stopped (not sure if that is a coincidence), and the few smaller ones seems to clear up instantly. 

And then the fine lines, and in particularly one frown line between my brows that’s bothering me a little, they all seem to have minimised in appearance. My pigmentation and dark spots from previous acne also seems to have significantly reduced in both size and darkness, and my skin simply looks more even and brighter, and it has a glow I haven’t seen for a long time.


When applying serum and moisturiser the following morning, it seems to absorb quicker, and my makeup seems to slide on so much easier, and due to this new-found glow, I feel the need to use less foundation than I usually do. It also seems to stay put for longer without starting to settle into lines or slide of my face, which is probably due to my skin not producing as much sebum.


And all of these results are without my skin being irritated at all. There is simply no stinging, flaking or dry skin. The liquid does have a slightly chemical scent, but it quickly fades as soon as it has absorbed into the skin. It comes in small glass ampoules, and thanks to an enclosed little plastic cap it is easy to break off the neck without getting any glass splinters. My only negative about these ampoules is probably the ampoules they come in – while the 2mls contained in each seems to be about the right amount, I think that I would use marginally less if it had been possible, and consequently gotten just a few more days use from the contents (and thus making it slightly cheaper per use too!), but on the other hand, I do understand that they are probably in the small ampoules to maintain their potency, which may otherwise be lose or minimised if the product had come in a small tube.


These ampoules from Mesoestetic may only be 10 % in strength compared to the John Plunkett’s Glyco Peel with 25%, but even so, I feel that the results are even more noticeable, almost as if the strength was actually double, and not the other way around. So I guess it goes to show that more expensive products do use higher quality ingredients that are so much more potent, and that this is close to the strength used by professionals in salons.


So overall I am really impressed with the Mesoestetic x.prof 052 Glycolic Acid with Vit. E and F as my skin is feeling softer and smoother and more even toned and radiant than it has for a long time. $118 is not cheap for ten small ampoules, but on the other hand, it is about the same cost as a professional treatment, and over the course of the 10 days, I do feel I’ve seen better results than after a medium strength peel at a salon – and the beauty is you can do it all from the comfort of your home, all while you get some beauty sleep! I will definitely consider repurchasing as it would be a great treatment to give you skin say every three months or so.

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


What do you think of these Glycolic Acid ampoules from Mesoestetic? Ever tried an at-home peel? Do treat yourself to regular salon treatments?

 

Product Review: Lust Have It – February 2014 Box

As I write this, It hasn't even been two weeks since I received the January Lust Have It Box, which was rather delayed, so it is lovely to see that Lust Have It is back on track as I received the February Box yesterday (the 25^th Feb)…well as I write this… currently living in a holiday house with very limited internet access, and very limited options of taking product photos, so hence there reason for the delayed posting about this. Anyway, here are my thoughts on the Lust Have It – February  2014 Box;

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:

The Lust Have It Boxes normally come in a white box with water-paint style pattern in bright pink, purple and blue splashes of colour. This month, Lust Have It included a note saying that they are redesigning the boxes, and the new ones will be available for the April box, and consequently the February and March boxes will be in a simple postal box. And while I do – or have so far, kept the majority of the boxes for storage of other things, I really don’t mind, as in the end of the day, it is the contents that matters!

The note also said that Lust Have It is starting a new ‘Beauty Dip’ , where 1000 lucky subscribers will this month will receive a So…? Perfume gift….. and YAY, I was one of the lucky ones – thanks so much Lust Have It!!

So anyway, this is exactly what my February box contained;

So…? Kiss Me Eau De Toilette – 10ml sample

I have never tried any of the So…? Perfumes before, but this is perfume which is fruity yet spicy at the same time, smells lovely, so I will enjoy using this.

Juice Beauty Green Apple Peel Sensitive – Sample 7ml (RRP: $65/60ml)

Lust Have It already told in last month’s box that this would be included in this month’s box, so it is obviously not a surprise, and I have been looking so forward as it has been on my wish list for a while. The peel claims to exfoliate and refine skin to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and lighten hyperpigmentation. Sounds amazing to me, so I cannot wait to put it to the test.

The Cosmetic Kitchen Eyeshadow – Full Size (RRP: $22.50/2g)

This Eyeshadow is made from 100% talc free minerals and is certified cruelty free and certified vegan. I got the colour Raspberry Cooley, which in the pot is a bright fuchsia pink shade, but luckily it can blend out really well to a lovely subtle shade, so while I am not usually one to wear pink Eyeshadow, I may actually get some wear out of this one.

The Cosmetic Kitchen Blush Selection – Full Size (RRP:$22.50)

I love good brushes, and in my opinion you can never have too many, so love the inclusion of this full sized brush.  By the sound of it, the boxes will contain varying brushes from either their Eco Bamboo or Original ranges – and by the looks of it, I got one from the Eco Bamboo range as it has a timber (bamboo?) shaft. It is a powder brush, and it is so incredibly soft. And I love that it has a little sleeve to protect the hairs on the brush, wish all brushes came with that. A great addition to the box.

Vaseline Ultimate 10 Anti Ageing Body Lotion – Sample Size 25ml (RRP: $16.29/750ml)

I had heard about this body lotion, and have had it on my wish list to try, but have a handful of other body lotions that I really needed to use up first before buying a new one… but  I am loving the inclusion of this, as this way I can actually try it before buying it. But I love that it contains AHA, pro-retinol and vitamin E to help restore the skin and leave it smoother and younger looking. Just what my skin needs, so fingers crossed it works. And the small sample sized bottle is so cute too!

Clairol Professional Color Radiance Shampoo – Sample Size 50ml (RRP: $13.95/250ml)

I had my hair coloured just before Xmas, so this is just perfect for my hair, protecting the hair from fading. The sample is a generous 50ml, so there is sufficient for quite a few goes, which is great, and it is lovely to see such a generous size included, as a sachet sample with only enough product for one wash, is really not enough for you to get an idea of how the product works for you. In saying that, I do prefer to use shampoo and conditioner from the same range, so I would have loved to see the inclusion of the conditioner as well, but I am sure I can find use for this, when I for instance use a deep treatment.

Clairol Professional Expand Volume Mousse – Sample Size 50ml (RRP: $19.95/250ml)

This mousse promises to double fullness and volume in the hair at the roots lasting for 24 hours. Having long and thick hair, it is consequently also very heavy, so any volume products usually never work in my hair, and I therefore stopped using them, but I do look forward to testing it out to see if it lives up to its claims.

Hand Spa Bijoux Hand Wipe – Full Size (RRP: $1.50/1 wipe)

This is hand wipe contains among others hyaluronic acid, royal jelly and soy bean extract to provide hands with a deep nourishing and moisturising effect. This is an interesting concept, as it really acts as a hand cream, only that first have to unwrap the wipe, and then throw it away afterwards. In my opinion a little cumbersome, so before even before trying it out, my first impressions is that I’d much prefer even the smallest tube of hand cream.

Finally, the box also came with a discount card to buy one Harvest Box and get another one for free. I have heard about these custom made healthy snack boxes, and think it is a great idea that you can get them posted to you every couple of days, for instance at work, so you resist the temptation of using the vending machine for chocolate fix. In saying that, I do find the normal price of $7.99 a little expensive, and I generally buy my nuts and dried fruit from the ‘nut place’ at the shopping centre, or alternatively in the supermarket when I do my weekly grocery shopping, and thinks it works out so much more economical – but hey, the convenience of this is great, I just don’t think I’ll make use of the offer.

So there you have it, the contents in the February Lust Have It Box. And yet again, I am quite impressed with the contents, mainly due to the Juice Beauty Peel, the Cosmetic Kitchen Brush and Eye Shadow, the So…Perfume and the Vaseline Moisturiser, all of which are products that I am very keen to test out. Again, I was lucky to also get the perfume sample, and it does obviously add some value to the box, but even without it, I still feel it is well worth its money – but of course I do feel lucky to, well be one of the lucky ones to get one. And I really do like the concept of the Beauty Dip, although it you continuously miss out month after month, you may start to feel differently, but only time will tell.

I also like that Lust Have It is so good with their communication and constantly inform subscribers of what’s happening, such as with the new box designs coming up, and I do like it when they include a sneak peak into what will be in store for next month’s box, but unfortunately that wasn’t included in this month’s box, but maybe if you stalk their facebook page, they have been known to post teasers there as well.

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

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..

What do you think of this month’s Lust Have It box? Are you a subscriber? Were you lucky and got a So…? Perfume too? Are you considering subscribing? Have you tried any of this month’s products?

Product Review: Perricone MD Cosmeceuticals Blue Plasma

Years of sun exposure, and a recent pregnancy on top has wreaked havoc with my skin. I simply have way more pigmentation than I like. So I am forever in a search for efficient products that can help minimise the pigmentation. Here are my thoughts on the *Perricone MD Blue Plasma;

 

What They Say:

A unique, non-acidic daily peel designed to deliver all the benefits of a traditional peel without redness or irritation. This cutting edge liquid treatment works with Bio-specific Peeling to attack only dead skin cells, Micro-extraction to lift surface debris, unclogging and purifying the skin of build-up and finally Hydro-fusion to rebalance skin's hydration with enriched water. No rinsing needed. Apply and follow with your daily skincare regimen.

RRP: $130 (59ml) – Available from Mecca Cosmetica

Perricone MD Blue Plasma works to exfoliate only the dead surface skin, lifting debris and purifying the skin, and rebalance the skins hydration levels with enriched water. In doing so, it doesn’t damage the skin, as it is not harsh or abrasive, it doesn’t dry out the skin, it doesn’t cause any sensitivity, and best of all, there is no down-time.

 

It promises to give the skin a luxurious luminosity, radiance and glow, with an unparalleled softness and smoothness, giving the skin suppleness with clarity and the brightness of youthful skin.

The Blue Plasma contains among others hyaluronic acid and aloe to help hydrate the skin, hydrolyzed roe (fish eggs!) and urea, to help peel away the dead skin cells on the surface level to help gently speed up the shedding of skin. It also contains L-carnitine, an amino acid, to help unclog and purify congested skin, magnolia bark extract to sooth irritations, and copper gluconate to promote skin cell healing.

 

Having combination skin prone to breakouts, I rely on a good exfoliator to keep my skin clear, I simply have to it regularly or my skin will start getting congested and quickly breakout. Even worse during the summer when the temperatures soar. But fining an exfoliator that is gentle enough for frequent use can be a bit tricky. Enter the Perricone MD Blue Plasma..

As the name suggests, the Blue Plasma really is blue. Clear blue liquid in a frosted glass jar. It looks a little scary to be honest, but I had no need to worry.

After I cleanse my skin at night, but before applying moisturiser, I apply the Blue Plasma. It is very light, and I just need to use 2 to 3 drops to cover my full face. You have to work it into the skin quickly, as it absorbs so quickly, and straight after you can hardly feel you’ve applied it. I then follow with my normal night cream. And unlike any other chemical peeling products that I’ve used, this one doesn’t sting on the face. And it is so gentle that it doesn’t irritate my skin either.

 

Already after the first use I can tell the difference. I simply wake up to soft and smooth skin, and after having used the Blue Plasma for over a month, I am so pleased to say that my scarring from past acne has reduced in both size and appearance, and my skin in general just feels less greasy, especially in the t-zone, and I have less clogged pores, and consequently I have also had less breakouts during that month. And when I do get a breakout, the Blue Plasma seems to help them heal up a lot faster than normal. My pigmentation also seems to have minimised slightly in appearance and size, in particularly one larger and darker spot on my forehead that has been annoying me. My skin is simply brighter and more glowing.

The Blue Plasma comes in a frosted glass bottle with a pipette style applicator, which makes it easy to get just the amount of product you need without wasting any. And well, at the $130 you wouldn’t want to either. The bottle is nice and modern, but obviously care needs to be taken so you don’t drop it on the bathroom floor.

At $130 for 59ml, this is a little expensive, but as you only use 2-3 drops each night, the bottle will seriously last you a long time. After a month’s use I have not even used a third of the bottle, so my estimate is that it will last a good 3-4 months. And with the results I have experienced after a month, I feel it is worth its price tag – also considering one peel a salon will set you back at least the same amount of money for a one off experience.

On the negative, it does have a slightly odd smell – and I say smell, as I am not overly fond of it, as it kind of smells like fish (which comes from the ingredient hydrolyzed roe, which is fish eggs!!), but at least this smell disappears within a few minutes.

 

What I Like:

• My skin is less greasy, congested and has less breakouts
• It is softer, smoother, more even and brighter
• Clears up skin and prevents breakouts
• It is very concentrated
• It doesn’t cause any irritations and works while you sleep
• Is free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates and synthetic fragrances

What I Don’t Like:

• It is a little expensive
• It has a fishy smell, which however quickly fades

Overall, this is an amazing product. It may be expensive and have an odd smell, but it is seriously making my skin so soft and smooth, and it is more even than it has been for years. And as someone who has always struggled with breakouts, it has been so effective at clearing up my skin, preventing breakouts and reducing the appearance of acne scarring. IT really is a facial in a bottle, and for a time-poor new mom with no time to go to the salon, this is fantastic, and for that reason I would definitely purchase this again.

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


What do you think of the Perricone MD Blue Plasma? Have you ever had a peel? Do you use at-home peels?