PRODUCT REVIEW: SHAVING WITH SCHICK HYDRO SILK AND SCHICK INTUITION

With just a month left of winter, spring and summer is thankfully heading our way soon and if you're anything like me, its soon time to prep that body for some lighter clothes, and bare legs, which means time to de-fuzz that body - so today I am going to talk about all types of shaving thanks to Schick... 

I am sure you have heard about Schick, but if not, they are a market leading brand of shavers for both men and women, and they've got so many different types available, so there is literally one for every area and not least preference, so today I am going to run you through a few different options..
Let's start with the Schick Hydro Silk Disposables. I always have this thing about disposable shavers that the quality is average and that the blades are blunt, but I have to eat my words, as I am seriously impressed with these shavers.

They have a handle that sits well in the hand, and the head has 5 curve-sensing blades with skin guards to smooth skin as you shave, helping reduce irritation while providing an incredibly close shave. It also has a water-activated moisturising serum that really does hydrate skin throughout each shave and leave it soft and smooth for up to 2 hours after shaving. The shavers come with a protective cap to cover the blades, so it is the perfect shaver to bring with you when travelling too.

The Schick Hydro Silk Limited Edition Pink Handle has the prettiest girlie pink handle, and like the disposables, it has 5 curve sensing blades for a closer shades, along with skin guards to make sure the skin is protected. It also has the water-activated serum, which helps add moisture to the skin. It also comes with a nifty little plastic holder with a suction cup that is so convenient in the shower.

Then there's the Schick Hydro Silk Trimstyle, which is slightly different as it is battery operated shaver intended as not only a razor, but also a bikini trimmer. In one end, the double ended shaver has a 5-blade shaver in one which has water-activated serum to help moisturise and keep the skin silk soft and smooth, as well as it has skin guards to protect the skin from nicks. At the other end, it has an adjustable 4-length trimmer comb that allows you to customise your look.

the only waterproof bikini trimmer and hydrating razor in one. The Hydro Silk blade cartridge promises to hydrate longer than any other razor & goes beyond an incredibly close shave to actually care for your skin. The battery operated, shower-safe bikini trimmer has an adjustable 4-length trimmer comb that allows you to customise your trim length and desired look. I love a good multi-functional tool, and this is no exception. It is so easy to use, and I also love the fact that it is waterproof so you can use it both in or out of the shower, whatever you prefer. 

Finally, my pick of the bunch for shaving under my arms is the Schick Intuition Pure Nourishment Razor, which has now been updated so it now has visible ribbons of moisture. This shaver is a little bulky with a larger than normal head, but that thanks to it having a block of skin moisturiser infused with hydrating coconut milk and sweet almond oil to help replenish the moisture in the skin. It also has am added coconut scent. Often in a rush in the shower, I used to 'dry shave' using shower gel, but since using this razor, the skin in my armpits haven't been healthier, softer and smoother. The moisture block makes the shave easier, and prevents the skin from drying out, and also the skin from getting nicks and cuts, as it lathers as you shave. The razor also has four blades for a closer shave, and it has pivoting head that follows the contours of the skin, to make it even easier and gives a more precise shave. It also comes with cap to protect the blade and moisturisng block when not in use, as well as a handy suction cup holder so you always have your shaver within reach in the shower.


Schick Hydro Silk Disposables - RRP: $9.99 / includes two shavers
Schick Hydro Silk Trimstyle -RRP: $21.95
Schick Hydro Silk Pink Handle - RRP: $14.95 /includes handle, holder and two replacement blades
Schick Intuition Pure Nourishment razor - RRP: $12.69 / includes handle, protective cap, holder and two replacement blades

Available from Priceline, Variety Stores, Coles, Woolworths 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: BRAUN SILK-EPIL 9 SKINSPA 4-IN-1 FOR LEGS, BODY AND FACE

I've been using an epilator on my legs for as long as I can remember, and I mean decades. So I was naturally excited when the latest Braun Silk-epil 9 SkinSpa landed on my desk some months ago, I was naturally excited. You can read all about it here. As I wrote at the time, the Braun Silk-epil 9 SkinSpa is without a doubt the most advanced epilator that I have used to date. First of all because it works both wet and dry skin, which means that you can use it in the shower or bath for extra comfort - so imagine my excitement when yet another edition was launched - the newest Braun Silk-epil 9 SkinSpa Wet & Dry Epilation, Exfoliation & Massage System, which now comes with a massive 12 extras!!

This new Braun Silk-epil 9 SkinSpa is essentially like the previous one, and it has epilator has pulsating active vibrations to stimulate the skin for a more gentle epilation. It also has 40 micro-grip tweezers to catch even more hair, even very short hair as short as 0.5mm, while the head of the shaver rotates to adapt to the body's contours to make the shaving even easier and more comfortable too.

It also comes with two exfoliation brushes, a blue one for deep exfoliation to help avoid those dreaded ingrown hairs, and a purple exfoliation head for more sensitive areas, and for a more refined and silky soft and smooth skin. These brushes have been developed for the whole body, except for the face. The brushing actions have more than 3000 micro-vibrations per minute to help remove both dry skin and improve the appearance of the skin.

But it also includes standard shaver head, which is designed for a fast and close shave of legs, underarms and bikini line, as well as contour trimming and cutting hair down to 55 mm length using the trimmer cap too. The shaver has two speed settings for your personal preference (if you're new to using an epilator, the lower setting may be a little less 'painful", while I've been using one for so long, that it's full steam ahead for me.

I love that his shaver so quickly and easily grabs all the tiny hairs, so I don’t have to run the shaver over the skin repeatedly to remove them, and the included extras are super nifty too. I particularly love the exfoliation brushes, which really do make my skin feel incredibly soft and smooth, and I also believe that buffing away the dead skin cells makes it quicker to shave my legs as it is easier for the shaver to grab individual hairs, as well as I feel that regular use of the exfoliation heads helps eliminate ingrown hair too, which is an extra bonus.

I also love that the Braun Silk-epil 9 SkinSpa is quick to charge as it only takes about 1 hour for a full charge, and then it has up to 40 minutes of battery life, which is more than sufficient to shave both legs.

All these features are the same as the 'old' model, actually it is not old, it is just that this new one now comes with not just 6 attachment - but now a massive 12 different ones!!

One of the new attachments include a battery operated sonic Facial Cleansing System that has three different high-density brushes, for sensitive, normal or exfoliation. This brush is quick and easy to use, and I love that it is waterproof so you can also use it in the shower. I haven't got sensitive skin, but love that it comes with different brush head options, and the fact that it includes a sensitive option does mean that yo you can use it daily. I also really love the exfoliating brush head as it really gives my skin a deep intense clean when I need it.

Another new attachment I also love is the new Deep Massage Pad. This massage pad helps improve skin texture by massaging the skin deeper tan a standard body brush. This means improved blood circulation, which in turn means an improvement of the skin's appearance. I also always have very tense shoulders, and hence have really enjoyed using this bod massager on my shoulders and neck where the gentle vibrations have helped loosen up the tight feeling.

So overall, I really enjoy - correction, I love using this Braun Silk-epil 9 SkinSpa, and compared to other epilators I've used over the past decades, I particularly love that this one is a wet/dry one, as I find it even quicker and easier to use in the shower, not only can I easily wash away all the small hairs, but I also find that the warm shower helps open the pores in my skin, so it is not only quicker to shave, but also less painful - and I really love that it now comes with even more useful attachment for a full spa experience at home. 


Braun Silk-epil 9 SkinSpa Wet & Dry Epilation, Exfoliation & Massage System, 9-969V - RRP: $299
Available from The Shaver Shop, Harvey Norman, Myer, David Jones and selected national retailers

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


Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |

PRODUCT REVIEW: BRAUN SILK-EPIL 9 SKINSPA

I've been using an epilator on my legs for as long as I can remember, and I mean decades. So I was naturally excited when the new Braun Silk-epil 9 SkinSpa landed on my desk.

This Braun Silk-epil 9 SkinSpa is without a doubt the most advanced epilator that I have used to date. First of all because it works both wet and dry skin, which means that you can use it in the shower or bath for extra comfort.

The epilator has pulsating active vibrations to stimulate the skin for a more gentle epilation. It also has 40 micro-grip tweezers to catch even more hair, even very short hair as short as 0.5mm, while the head of the shaver rotates to adapt to the body's contours to make the shaving even easier and more comfortable too.
It also comes with two exfoliation brushes, a blue one for deep exfoliation to help avoid those dreaded ingrown hairs, and a purple exfoliation head for more sensitive areas, and for a more refined and silky soft and smooth skin. These brushes have been developed for the whole body, except for the face. The brushing actions have more than 3000 micro-vibrations per minute to help remove both dry skin and improve the appearance of the skin.
 

But it also includes standard shaver head, which is designed for a fast and close shave of legs, underarms and bikini line, as well as contour trimming and cutting hair down to 55 mm length using the trimmer cap too.

In addition It also comes with a high frequency cap and a sensitive skin contact cap included, making it a total of 6 extras. 

The shaver has two speed settings for your personal preference (if you're new to using an epilator, the lower setting may be a little less 'painful", while I've been using one for so long, that it's full steam ahead for me.

The Braun Silk-epil 9 SkinSpa is quick to charge as it only takes about 1 hour for a full charge, and then it has up to 40 minutes of battery life, which is more than sufficient to shave both legs.

Overall I really enjoy using this Braun Silk-epil 9 SkinSpa, and compared to other epilators I've used over the past decades, I really love that this one is a wet/dry one, as I find it even quicker and easier to use in the shower, not only can I easily wash away all the small hairs, but I also find that the warm shower helps open the pores in my skin, so it is not only quicker to shave, but also less painful.

It also quickly and easily grabs all the tiny hairs, so I don’t have to run the shaver over the skin repeatedly to remove them, and the included extras are super nifty too. I particularly love the exfoliation brushes, which really do make my skin feel incredibly soft and smooth, and I also believe that buffing away the dead skin cells makes it quicker to shave my legs as it is easier for the shaver to grab individual hairs, as well as I feel that regular use of the exfoliation heads helps eliminate ingrown hair too, which is an extra bonus.

So all in all this really is an incredible shaver. No, at $299 this is not cheap, however if you compare it to regular wax treatments in a salon, it will pay for itself in no time, plus you'll have the convenience of doing it in your own home when it suits you. 


Braun Silk-epil 9 SKinSpa - RRP: $299
Available from The Shaver Shop, Harvey Norman, Myer, David Jones and selected national retailers

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

Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |

XMAS GIFT IDEAS FOR MEN

Today it's time to share some Xmas gift ideas for the men in your life, your brother, your dad, your hubby… I've got a good selection of different suggestions for you..

Milkman is a Sydney brand that prides themselves in making premium quality shaving products for men, loaded with botanical and top quality ingredients. And my husband has lately been loving the Milkman Clear Shave Gel.

The gel is soap free, so it is very gentle, even on sensitive skin, and it doesn't give him the usual dryness in the areas of his face where he shaves, but leaves his skin feeling soft and smooth and free from irritation. The actual shaving gel comes in a huge 500ml bottle, and there's enough for over 100 shaves in a bottle, it is very concentrated and just takes a few pumps each time. Unlike other shaving gels it is non-foaming and goes on to the skin clear, so its easier for him to see what he is doing, and avoid missing any hairs for a closer shave. And if hubby doesn't have access to water, no need to worry, as any excess can simply be wiped off and anything remaining will just absorb into his skin where the aloe vera, peppermint and rosemary oils will help both cool the skin, but also moisturise and nourish his skin. It has a lovely natural fresh, yet very masculine scent that any male will enjoy.

New socks and jocks! How often have you heard that when asking your dad etc for gift ideas! I know I have, and always found it the dullest Xmas idea ever. Somehow pretty female lingerie seems different, but is it. I know my husband will love some good quality boxer shorts including these from Playboy. The Playboy Classic Black boxers features the classic Playboy written branding, while the Playboy Arrow Head Black boxers features white arrow on the sides and the Playboy Rabbit Head logo on the waist. Both are made from a luxury cotton blend with 95% and 5% elastane with double stitching that adds support and tightly holds, his eaarh, well 'boys' in place, while still being comfortable thanks to the smooth elastic waistband. There are heaps of different designs available, so there's a design for every taste.

These day all computers, laptops and phones have inbuilt speakers, but sometimes they just don't provide adequate sound, or are simply not loud enough, and that's when I love adding 'proper' speakers. So what about these cool USB powered R12U speakers from Edifier. The have the most stunning bright red colour (but also available in white and black), have the coolest and sleekest design ever, designed to be on an angle to drive the sound directly to you for a better sound and listening experience.

The small compact size, and the fact that they are very light, means that you can easily take them with you, or move them around. And don't be fooled by the small size, as the sound the give, is seriously clear and loud. They are designed with a bass reflex port, to make everything clear and rich, and also come with a 3.5mm AUX input to plug in an iPod, tablet, laptop or phone, and they are quick and simple to use, as there is just one simple knob to turn the speaker on and off, as well as adjust the volume with a single dial. Clear & rich sound. They also have input to plug in headphones for privacy. These small speakers would also be ideal in kids bedrooms, due to their compact size! I love that they are not only beautiful to look at, but the sound is great too - and so is the price, as considering the quality of these speakers, they are insanely budget friendly.

Or what about Victorinox Tinker Swiss Army Knife! Personally I have one of the tiny Victorinox knives as my keyring on my house keys, it has just a few basics in it, including a nail file and tiny scissors, and I absolutely love the convenience of it, and even hubby often asks if he can use it when we're out and about. The Tinker version is a bigger, more 'male' Tinker model, that has a massive 12 functions including large and small blade, can opener, 2 x screwdriver, bottle opener, wire stripper, reamer, punch and sewing awl, Philip screwdriver and key ring - and yet, it weighs a measly 62g! The classic red army knife is truly a reliable, and functional tool, and wherever your hubby is, he'll always have the tool at hand to be able to fix things up in a hurry.

This pack from Remington is incredible value. It contains a Rechargeable Remington shaver as well as a L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Powder After Shave Balm to keep his skin hydrate and soft for up to 24 hours. The Remington has a multi-directional pivoting neck and flexing head for a more comfortable shave, and also has a dual track stainless steel blades, so he can have a closer shave, that is also quick and easy to do. The shaver also featured a pop up trimmer so he can trim sideburns and any other facial hair, and as the head detaches from the shaver and can be washed, it is easy to keep clean. The shaver has a rechargeable battery and it gives 30 minutes of cordless use time. It also comes with a safety cap for the shaver head, a storage pouch and cleansing brush. With a two year warranty, this is a brilliant buy!

Finally, there's the UE Roll from Ultimate Ears. And this light round disc is sure to be music to your ears. Literally it is the ultimate wireless speaker that you can take with you everywhere you go, and it is easy to carry thanks to the super stretchy bungee-cord.

It has a 360 degree sound and it is waterproof so it survives a trip in the pool, but is also designed adventure, also surviving a drop to the floor - as they say, it is 'virtually indestructible'! And it has a massive 9 hours battery life, so it is brilliant to take with you on the go, also because it is so small and compact, only being about the size of a man's hand and weighing just 340g. It also features a 20m wireless range, so even in my large house, it picks up the music from my iphone in one end of the house, yet still plays crisp sound at the other end of the house. And you can pair up to 8 Bluetooth devices (including two at the same time!!), including smart phones and tablets and even my smart TV.

It has a stunning simplistic design that I really love - I mean, how clever is the embroidered minus and plus on the face, which you simply push lightly for volume control. It is also simple to switch on and off, with a single button the back, and the USB ports in the back are cleverly hidden behind a little flap. It comes in a range of cool colours and designs, including this funky orangy-red.


Milkman Clear Shave Gel - RRP: $24.95 / 500ml
Available from Milkman Online, The Shaver Shop and selected Barbers

Playboy Boxer Shorts - RRP: $29.95
Available from Playboy Mens Underwear

Edifier R12U Speakers - RRP: $39.95
Available from Edifier Online (with free postage)

Victorinox Tinker Swiss Army Knife - RRP: $46.95
Available from David Jones, Bunnings, My Swiss Army Knife Online, Tent World, Matchbox, Aussie Disposals and select outdoor adventure stores

Remington Rechargeable Shaver Pack, PR1236AU - RRP: $49.95
Available from Priceline, Shavershop, Target, The Good Guys, Harvey Normal and select other electrical retailers

UE Roll - RRP: $149.95
Available from Ultimate Ears, The Good Guys, Harvey Norman and JB Hifi

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

Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |

BEST BARGAIN BEAUTY BUDGET BUYS - JANUARY 2015

After Xmas, and then followed by the Boxing Day Sales, most people are a little strapped for cash in January, I know I am! So I thought it was time for the first post on Best Budget Beauty Buys for the year;

Sunsilk Addictive Brilliant Shine Shampoo & Conditioner*

This shampoo and conditioner has been infused with a blend of 5 natural oils, including pearl extract and rich vitamin oils to deeply nourish the hair fibres and activate the hair’s natural shine properties to leave it shinier than you’ve ever seen it, yet without weighing it down. The products are a co-creation made with Jamal Hammadi and come in very girly bright pink bottles, and have the most stunning fresh fruity scent. The products are very concentrated so they will last you forever!
RRP: each, $4.79 (200ml), $6.29 (400ml), $10.99 (750ml) – Available from supermarkets, pharmacies, Variety stores and Priceline.



Nivea In-Shower Body Lotion Honey Indulgence*

When I am in a hurry in the mornings (mostly because my little toddler boy wants me to hurry when I’m in the shower, I just cannot go past this In-shower Body Lotion. It is used after your regular shower gel, and then you quickly apply it all over the body before rinsing it off. And once you are out of the shower and dried, your skin is so soft and smooth that you can completely skip applying body lotion. Saves so much time as you can in turn get dressed immediately. There are a few different versions available, but this newest one contains honey to deeply moisturiser sin for 24+ hours, so it is perfect even the driest of skins. And thanks to the honey contents, it smells divine too!
RRP: $6.49 (250ml) – Available from supermarkets, pharmacies, Variety stores and Priceline. 



Pantene PRO-V Dry Shampoo*

 

Having long thick hair, washing and drying my hair takes forever, and with a toddler, that is time I often haven’t got. Once I washed my hair daily, but over the last two years I have ‘trained’ my hair to get used to only being washed ever two to three days. Even so it doesn’t really look greasy any more (as it once did on day two), but still, if I go out on a day I don’t wash it, I still like to freshen it up a little by using dry shampoo, and these new options from Pantene are absolutely brilliant. The Volume Booster is also designed to both help absorb excess oil, while also helping to increase volume in the hair. The Original Fresh Dry Shampoo, on the other hand, also absorbs oil, but isn’t specifically designed to add volume, but I feel that it still is, as most other dry shampoos. It has a lovely fresh scent, so of the two that is my preferred option.
RRP: $9.99 (140g) each – Available from Supermarkets, Pharmacies, Variety Stores and Priceline



Schick Intuition Pure Nourishment Shaver*

I don’t normally have dry skin on my legs, but for some reason during summer, the skin does tend to become drier. Not sure why, maybe because I shave a bit more frequently seeing I wear dresses and skirts! And while I do admit to loving my trusted epilator, I do at times like to use a good old-fashioned shaver, especially when I am in a hurry as well as I always use on under my arms. And this Pure Nourishment Shaver from Schick comes with a thick moisturising bar infused with almond oil and coconut milk that not only means that you don’t have to use shaving cream, but it moisturises the skin while you use it, so you avoid razor burns. As it has four blades it is quick and easy to use and you only have to go over the area once for a close shave without any cuts. The actual design is a little larger than most other shavers, but I like that it sits well in the hand and is not too flimsy, so as it also has a rubber grip on the sides, you don’t risk dropping it.
RRP: $12.69 (kit with shaver, caddy, and two blades) – Available from Supermarkets, variety stores and select pharmacies



Impulse Perfume Sprays*

I always wear perfume. Well, that’s not quite true, now that I am pregnant I am trying not to wear it as much as I know it is full of chemicals that I really should avoid, so I am saving it for special occasions. When I am home, or simply just going grocery shopping, I’d like to go for something slightly lighter than a strong Eau de Parfum, such as the newly launched Perfume in an Aerosol Sprays from Impulse. There are a total of nine different scents in the range, so there is something for everyone. I have tried Illusions, Romantic Spark and Merely Musk. Illusions contains rose and sandalwood and has a light fresh scent, while Romantic Spark has a warmer floral scent thanks to containing earth woods and wild violets, while finally Merely Musk contains lime and sandalwood making it a fresh but warm scent as well. Of the three, Illusions is definitely my favourite, being the lightest and freshest scent of the three. The slimline spray cans have a nifty twist closure lid so you don’t have to fear that it will spray into your handbag, and they all have a surprising staying power, thanks to being created by the world-renowned fragrance expert, Ann Gottleib, who is among other behind some luxe scents including Calvin Klein’s Eternity and Obsession, Marc Jacobs and Christian Dior’s J’Adore – funnily enough all favourites of mine, and perfumes that I have in my collection, and have repurchased numerous times. These Impulse Perfume Scents are an amazing bargain buy!
RRP: $4.95 (75g) - Available from Pharmacies and Priceline



Dove Pink Anti-Perspirant Deodorant*

 

This little gem not only works to keep you dry all day, even on the hottest and most humid day, but it also contains Dove’s usual ¼ moisturiser so it cares for your underarms at the same time. It dries quickly, and has a beautiful powdery floral scent which is however still so gentle and subtle that it won’t clash with any perfume. And what’s even better is that buying one of these, means that you also help support National Breast Cancer Foundation, and in my opinion there is no better cause, so I always make sure to stock up on these!
RRP: $3.89 (50ml) – Available from Pharmacies, Supermarkets and Priceline



DermaSukin Daily Hydrating Wash and Daily Gentle Wash*


 

Being pregnant means that unfortunately some skincare ingredients are totally off limits, as they can potentially harm the unborn baby. Some of these ingredients are salicylic acid, which are present in the majority of blemish products – so suddenly not being able to use those, is not the greatest when you’ve always had blemish prone skin, and to top it off, your skin suddenly goes bonkers with raging hormones. But what I’ve learnt over the years is that nothing beats a gentle cleanser, and the Hydrating Wash and Daily Gentle Wash from DermaSukin are brilliant options. They are both soap and fragrance free, and are sulphate and paraben free too so they are perfect for even the most sensitive skin types. And as they are soap free they can both be used both with and without water. With water I love using them with my Clairsonic, and without water you can simply remove any excess with a dry clean cloth. Simply too easy. The hydrating Wash contains among others aloe vera and calendula to help keep the skin hydrated, while the Daily Gentle Wash contains aloe vera, cucumber, and chamomile and is designed to cleanse the skin without stripping it of its natural oils.
RRP: $8.95 (250ml) each – Available from Select Pharmacies



EcoTools Pure Complexion Deep Cleansing Facial Sponge*

 

When I feel like my skin needs a gentle deep clean, I cannot go past this Konjac Sponge which is handmade from 100 percent natural ingredients, including Konjac vegetable fibre and bamboo charcoal. When dry, it looks more like a pumice stone, but don’t be fooled, once soaked in water, it turns soft and fluffy, so you can wipe it over your skin to help wash away dirt, makeup and dead skin cells, all without irritating the skin, causing any redness or drying it out, rather it leaves your skin soft, smooth and glowing thanks to the gentle exfoliation I gives at the same time. And the best thing is that you can keep using it again and again over a period of one to three months before it needs to be replaced.
RRP: $14.99 – Available from the Beauty Office

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

So there you go, a selection of amazing products that are not only very effective, but also very kind on the bank account!

Have you tried any of these products? Which products do you turn to when the budget is tight?
Twitter | Facebook | Bloglovin | Instagram |

February Favourites 2014

I have not done of these posts before. But I really like reading other beauty bloggers favourites posts. And trialling a fair share of products every month, while I genuinely love by far the majority of the products I trial, there are obviously products that I for one reason or another like more than others, and that I continue to use after a trial period, or keep going back to – and so I thought that it was time that I started doing a monthly favourites post too.

And yep, I am a little late, very late actually, posting the February post, but moving house and our internet provider stuffing up so now almost three weeks after moving in, we are still without internet in our new house (plus for the almost three weeks prior to that while we were living in a holiday house), explains all of that. And as I’ve had the post ready to go live, I thought that I’d go ahead and post it, even in spite of being almost a month late!!! So without further ado, here are the products that I have continuously reached for during February..

Neutrogena Rapidly Clear Blackhead Eliminating Daily Scrub*

I have always struggled with my skin breaking out, but luckily have managed to get it under control. Well most of the time. Having recently moved house, twice in a month, and the stress that came with it, and add to that we also in the process of getting a new house designed, has stressed my out skin a bit. Actually probably a little more than I like, as my skin has gone bonkers this last month. But I have found some help in the Blackhead Eliminating Daily Scrub from Neutrogena. This scrub is so gentle that it can be used daily. The small exfoliating beads helps remove dead skin cells, while the salicylic acid, helps clean deep down every pore removing excess dirt and oil, leaving my skin feeling less greasy, and simply soft and smooth.
RRP: $13.99 (125ml) - Available from Priceline and supermarkets

Palmer's Purifying Mask*

To further help clean my skin, I have also been relying on the Palmer’s Purifying Mask a few times a week. This mask contains kaolin clay to help draw out impurities and purify the pores, and after leaving it on for just 10 minutes, my skin free from all the excess oiliness that is otherwise plaguing it at the moment, and it is left looking healthy and smooth. Yet at the same time it also contains among others cocoa and shea butters, vitamin E and sweet almond oil, to help moisturise and nourish the skin. Used regularly, it simply helps makes my makeup stay put for longer without sliding off my face. It comes in a handy tube, and has the most gorgeous scent floral scent

RRP: $9.99 (120g) - Available from Priceline and supermarkets

Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer*

With all the breakouts, this past month I’ve also been relying on the Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer. The concealer is a unique two-toned concealer that allows you to custom-blend your own perfect shade to match your skin. And it easily covers redness, blemishes and age spots. And as it is so pigmented you only need to use so little, which also means that the result is very natural. And my combination skin also loves that it is an oil-free formula that stays put all day. Not cheap, but worth every cent!

RRP: $49 – Available from David Jones and Adore Beauty

Wella SP Color Save Mask*

I usually get my hair coloured at the salon 3 to 4 times a year. And I hate it. Well, I love the result, that’s why I keep getting it done, but I hate actually getting it done. I have very long and thick hair, and usually have very fine strands of hair coloured throughout my hair, which makes it look quite natural, but it is a process that takes several hours, and that’s what I hate. So I’ll do anything to protect the colour and prevent it from fading too quick and that’s where the Wella SP Color Save Mask is so brilliant. It not only helps keep my hair looking healthy but this hair mask has been created to protect coloured hair providing long-lasting colour brilliance and care against fading. It also includes UV Filters to shield against sunlight damage, beeswax for increased shine and olive leaf extract for its colour-retaining benefits, and of course, not forgetting ingredients to  moisturise and protect the hair from drying out.

RRP: $34 - Available from hair salons

L'Oreal Luminosity Code BB Cream*

I love multi-tasking products and this Luminosity Code BB Cream from L'Oreal is no exception. It is not only a BB Cream that helps cover imperfections, but it also works to helps to even out the skin tone. It contains Lumi-Gen technology, which is designed to regulate the skin’s pigmentation so the skin is more even day after day. The BB Cream doubles as a moisturiser and it is oil free and extremely lightweight has well as it is non-comedogenic, so perfect for my combination skin for wear on a hot summers’ day for a casual outing. It only has a very light coverage, but it is enriched with pearlescent light reflectors, so it leaves the skin with a lovely healthy glow, without being too shimmery or making the skin look shiny. And it is perfect to be used in combination with the Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer. The cream has a gorgeous gentle floral scent, and as a as an added bonus offers protection from harmful UV rays.

RRP: $29.95 –Available from Priceline, variety stores, selected pharmacies, department stores and supermarkets

Schick Quattro Papaya & Pearl*

I have to be completely honest and admit that I normally use an epilator to shave my legs, although I don’t use it under my arm pits, as I’m way too much of a chicken to do that. But moving house, I completely forgot to pack the epilator with the stuff I was taking with me to the holiday house, and that’s where this new shaver from Schick came in so handy. It has a whole four blades for a closer and smoother shave, and the tip is enriched with papaya and pearl to leave the skin feeling so incredibly soft. It comes with a handy suction cup holder for the shower and it has a cute coral colour. And I have to admit that I do love the smoothness of shaving my legs with a blade, especially now that it is still warm and I generally wear skirts or dresses, - the shave just doesn’t compare to using an epilator…. So I may just give my epilator a little holiday for a while..

RRP: $11.99 - Available from Priceline, variety stores, selected pharmacies, department stores and supermarkets

Palmer's Natural Bronze Instant*

I love summer and feeling the sun warm up my body, but having a baby means that this summer I’ve been less outside and in the sun than I normally am. That means my legs are somewhat paler than they usually are at this time of year, and that’s where the Palmer's Natural Bronze Instant is so brilliant. It is not only an instant tanner, it is also a self-tanner that gradually builds up a nice and natural looking tan, so it looks like I too have spent the summer at the beach.

RRP: $9.39 (250ml) - Available from Priceline, variety stores, selected pharmacies, department stores and supermarkets

Advanced Cosmeceuticals Magnifibres Brush-On False Lashes*

Once upon a time I had long lashes. No so anymore. These days I am so envious of my little 9 month old boy, whose lashes seems to grow longer and longer by the day. But lucky there is help to be found. These Magnifibres Brush-On False Lashes from Advanced Cosmeceuticals is brush on false lashes in the shape of a mascara wand. Simply apply a coat of your normal mascara, then follow by applying the brush with the cotton wool-like fibres onto your lashes, and finish off with a final coat of your normal mascara – and you are left with an incredible false lash effect, with lashes that are both longer and has more volume, yet looks natural. Perfect for someone like me who has not yet mastered applying false lashes! But I do have to admit that I did worry using the Magnifibres on my sensitive eyes, as they easily get irritated and water, and I feared that it would drop particles into my eyes, but I had no need to worry as that has not been the case. Combined with the casual look of the BB Cream, these Magnifibres takes my everyday makeup look to a complete new level.
RRP: $59.95 – Available from select stockists, or from Advanced Cosmeceuticals

FAB First Aid Beauty Lip Therapy*

During summer my lips always get so dry from the sun and from air conditioners too, but this summer, the Lip Therapy from FAB has come to the rescue. This little wonder product has kept my lips soft and hydrated, and after a day of sailing which resulted in chapped and dried out lips from the wind, it got my lips back to top shape in no time. It has a lovely fresh minty smell and feels cooling on the lips, and what’s even better is that it contains absolutely no chemical nasties, including no parabens or colourants.
RRP: $12.95 (14.8ml) – Available from Priceline

So there you have it – some of the products which I have particularly loved using in February. And stay tuned… I will be posting about my March favourites before you know it!!

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

Have you tried any of these products? Or any you’d love to try? Did you discover any new products in February?

Product Review: Remington Smooth & Silky Face & Body Epilator

Summer has finally come, so it is time to de-fuzz that body, getting it ready for showing up the bare legs! I have to be honest and admit that I have been using an epilator for years. Actually for as long as I can remember. When I started shaving my legs, I quickly realised that I didn’t like using a shave with a blade – yes it is quick and easy, but I don’t like the stubble that you get just a few days after. Then there’s of course the option of getting your legs waxed at a salon, but being a broke student at the time, there was no way I could afford the frequent trips back to the salon again and again. So I figured that I’d buy an epilator, yes the cost up front was a little more than a shaver and a can of shaving gel, but long term it would save me money. And I have loved using one ever since. Here are my thoughts on the *Remington Smooth & Silky Face & Body Epilator;

What They Say:

"This dual speed versatile epilator comes complete with two washable heads – a shaver head with dual trimmers and an epilator head for perfect long lasting results. The epilator removes hair as short as 0.5mm and a built-in precision light ensures you won’t miss a single hair. It also features a perfect angle cap to ensure an optimal tweezing angle, a detail cap for facial use and smaller areas, as well as a massage cap with aloe vera to help reduce any discomfort."

 RRP: $79.95 - Available from all leading electrical retailers


What I Say:

Now, I am not going to lie, using an epilator is a little painful. But you do get used to it. I used be able to shave my legs and then get dressed straight after to go out – but I think something happened to my skin while I was pregnant. It has become very sensitive. So now, I get all these red tiny dots on my skin where the hairs have been pulled out, and this lasts for a few hours, and feeling a little itchy and the skin warm as well. But just note that this is not just this Remington Smooth & Silky Face & Body Epilator doing this, even my old shaver does this – but again, this never happened before I got pregnant!

The Remington Smooth & Silky Face & Body Epilator works to pull out the hairs at the roots – picking up hairs as small as 0.5mm.

It does take a while to shave the legs, but the results are so worth it, your legs are so silky smooth afterwards. And you will have no stubble coming out a few days later. Remington promises that you will be hair free for up to 4 weeks, - and it really does take the hairs a few weeks to fully grow back, so really you don’t have to shave more than every 4 weeks or so, although I do prefer to do it on a weekly basis, as that way I pick up any hairs I may have missed last time, and also that way it doesn’t take quite as long to do, as you are constantly just maintaining.

The Remington Smooth & Silky Face & Body Epilator comes with two different caps, including the epilator cap and a normal shaving head. In addition it also comes with a Massaging Cap with aloe vera, a Perfect Angle Cap which ensures optimal tweezing angle and close contact with the skin, as well as a Detail Cap intended for facial use. And finally it also includes a small little bag to store everything in.

I tried using the Massaging Cap with the aloe vera on the tips to soothe and calm the skin, and while this cap does feel lovely on the skin, it is not enough to avoid the tiny red does on my skin.

The Epilator is mains powered, which although it is sometimes a little tricky manoeuvring the cord around, does give you constant and consistent power, which is good for someone like me who usually forget to re-charge the tool. It also has two different speed settings for removing coarse or thin hair, and although I don’t have particularly coarse hair, I did prefer the higher speed, feeling I was able to finish shaving sooner. Finally, it also has a precision light so help you see even the smallest of hairs, but as I am usually shaving my legs outside, whenever the weather permits, I really don’t make use of this feature – but of course during winter where I have to shave inside in the ensuite, I am sure it will be a very handy feature as well.

The epilator is also intended for use on the face as well as in the bikini line and under the arms, but I don’t really have any facial hairs so I have not tested it for that, and I am too much of a chicken to use the epilator under my arms, as I can just imagine that it would hurt so much – but instead I used the shaver head for that purpose, and it works very well as well. I did however use the epilator cap on the bikini line, and again it is very efficient, although again it caused a little redness for a few hours.

The epilator has small and lightweight design, making it easy to manoeuvre around and get to even hard to reach areas behind the legs.


What I Like:

• It keeps my legs and bikini line free from hairs for weeks without stubble
• It is easy to use
• It is well priced, and long term will save you money not having to buy shaving blades, shaving gel or go to the salon for a wax
• It comes with 2 year warranty
• It comes with a 30 day money back guarantee, so if you don’t like it, you can return it
• Suitable for use on both legs, face, underarms and bikini line

 

What I Don’t Like:

• My skin gets a little irritated with tiny red dots where I’ve used the epilator

 

Overall, I have yet again confirmed that my preferred method of shaving my legs is using an epilator, and this is Smooth & Silky Face & Body Epilator from Remington is a such an efficient shaver, making it quick and easy to be hair free.

 

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

 

 

What do you think of this epilator from Remington? Have you ever tried an epilator? Do you use one under your arms (and hence not a chicken like me)?