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17 February 2015

BEST BEAUTY BUDGET BUYS - MAKEUP EDICTION - FEB 2015

This month I thought that I’d do an edition of my Best Beauty Budget Buys, focusing on makeup buys that I find are particularly great value..







Colour Theory Nail Polishes Pastel Collection







When your hands and toes are slightly summer tanned, nothing beats a slick or two of a pastel nail polish, and these cute nail polishes are a brilliant choice. There are over 20 different colours in the Colour Theory Nail Polish Collection, but I at the moment I am particularly fond of the range of pastels including, It’s a Boy, It’s a Girl, Minted, Lilac-A-Lovely, and Crème de la Crème – in fact, I cannot really decide which one is my favourite, but then its lucky they are so cheap you can afford them all. The formaldehyde free polishes are easy to apply and dry quickly, although two coats are required for a solid colour, but I think that is the case with most pasted coloured polishes anyway. They have a wear of a few days, which can be extended by the use of a base and top coat, but I think is decent, also considering the low price. I also love that there are so many more colours in the range, so even if you are not into pastels, there’s still a colour for you.

RRP: $4.00 – Available from Amcal and Guardian Pharmacies





EcoTools Skin Perfecting Brush







Good makeup brushes at a reasonable price can be hard to come by, but lately I have been loving this Skin Perfecting Brush from EcoTools. The brush has been specifically designed for use with BB and CC Creams, which is what I tend to wear most days, especially during summer.






The brush has cut dense angled yet soft bristles to give you a smooth application with an even look, without transferring oil from the hands to the face. The angled bristles also make it easy to get to hard to reach areas, including around the eyes and in the corner of the nose. A great quality brush at a low price.

RRP: $15.99 – Available from The Beauty Office





Essence Lash Princess Mascara






This mascara has the cutest packaging ever, featuring a corset/dress design. It has a slim wand that makes it easy to get to and cover even the tiniest of lashes. It coats evenly and gives your lashes both nice volume and length, while also adding a touch of curl, and you can build it up by adding another coat or two, all without clumping – although you do have to make sure to do it before it dries to avoid clumping.







The Mascara is not waterproof, but it still lasts all day without flaking, even surviving my sensitive watery eyes. A good mascara for everyday use, at a brilliant price!

RRP: $6.75 - Available from Target and Priceline 




Essence Silky Touch Blush





This blush in the shade Autumn Peach is a lovely pinky-peach shade with a touch of golden sheen, that is still subtle without being over the top shimmery. It initially goes in quite sheer, but you can easily build up the coverage as much as you like, as it is surprisingly pigmented, yet while still looking quite natural.






The blush is has a lovely soft finish, and it lasts all day on the cheeks without fading or sliding. A fantastic blush at a bargain price!

RRP: $5.10 – Available from Target and Priceline



Colour by TBN Moisturising Lipstick







These lipsticks from Colour by TBN are a serious bargain buy. They contain vitamin E and aloe vera and not only lightweight but also feel moisturising on the lips. They apply easily and leave a lovely semi-matte finish on the lips. The are very pigmented, and especially the darker colours, and they lasts fairly well on the lips. There is a massive 20 different shades in the range, so there is sure to be a colour to match every preference and occasion. I also love that the covers are colour matched to the shade of the lipstick as at just $2.50 there’s no excuse to pick out several from the large.

RRP: $2.50 – Available from select pharmacies





DB Designer Brands Lightweight Oil-Free Foundation SPF15






This foundation offers you a light to medium coverage that is easy to apply and blend easily covering minor blemishes, redness and pigmentation. It contains among others sericite mica as well as vitamin C and E and aloe vera to care for your skin as you wear it, which means that it feels so lovely and moisturising at the skin too. I also love that it is so lightweight and also is oil-free, and contains no talc, bismuth that can clog up pores.







It has a natural looking dewy finish that stays put all day, even on a hot day, without too much shine, and without settling into fine lines too. I also love that it has SPF15, although a higher SPF wouldn’t go astray. It comes in a heavy-duty glass bottle with a pump that is both easy and convenient to use!

RRP: $12.95 (30ml) – Available from Priceline and Designer Brands Online

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


So there you go, a collection of makeup at bargain prices!


Have you tried any of these products? Keen on trying any of them? Which bargain makeup products would you recommend?

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23 April 2014

PRODUCT REVIEW: ESSENCE PRODUCT NEWS APRIL 2014

The day before Easter the loveliest parcel arrived at my door, a selection of the newest products added to the essence product range. Essence is such a great brand, with high quality on trend products, at rock bottom prices. The package was amazing, and clearly a lot of time and effort had gone into putting it together, but sadly as you can see from the images below, Australia Post really doesn’t care about the parcels they deliver, and consequently two products were smashed up, making a right mess!

 
 

The new essence products include among others;

*essence mono eyeshadow
A range of mono eyeshadows in a huge choice of colours, 20 in total so you can create endless trendy looks! The Eyeshadow got slightly damaged in the mail, but at least can still be used! RRP $2.85


 

*essence 3D eyeshadow
Unfortunately this was the Eyeshadow that didn’t survive being handled by Australia Post. How frustrating. And what a mess too. Took me forever to clean up all the mess that was stuck to all the other products, and then I had clean myself afterwards as I had Eyeshadow literally all over!! But I did learn that the Eyeshadow, which contains satin, metallic and shimmering textures, has an amazingly pigmented coverage, so at just $4.95 this is a definitely worth checking out. Darn you Australia Post! Check out the pics below!!

 
*essence all about eyeshadow palettes
 
 

New trendy Eyeshadow palettes with six trendy colours, with combination ‘all about nude’, all about candies’, ‘all about sunrice’ and ‘all about paradise’. The palettes include shimmering, matte and metallic effects. I’m so relieved that this ‘all about nude’ palette survived the freight, as the colours are stunning, and just the shades that I prefer! RRP $6.45

 
*essence eyeliner pen waterproof
I am always using a black liquid eyeliner, but with sensitive eyes, I struggle finding one that will stay put when my eyes water, so I cannot wait to put this new waterproof edition to the test. And with an RRP of just $4.95, the price is yet again rock-bottom.
 
 

*essence kajal pencil
These kajal pancils are available in a total of 8 colours, and again they are long-wearing which is perfect for my eyes. I love this Hot Scorch colour which is a bronze metallic, but at just $1.80 you can afford to buy one of each colour!

 


 
*essence maximum volume mascara
This mascara has an elastomer brush with elliptical blades that provides perfectly defined lashes and great volume too. This opthalmologically tested mascara is an amazing find at just $4.95



 
*essence XXXL longlasting lipgloss mirror shine effect

These lipglosses are available in 9 colours and give the lips an amazingly shiny finish will being long wearing. And they truly are longwearing, even staying put after a lunch, so at just $4.10 each, I will definitely add a few more to my collection.
 


 
*essence XXXL longlasting lipgloss matt effect

This lipgloss has a velvety matte effect, and again, has an amazing wear without drying out the lips. It is available in 5 trendy colours at just $4.10 each

 

*essence all-in-one CC cream clear and correct
This CC cream covers and correct irregularities, including spots and redness while giving the skin a smooth and even finish and a soft complexion. I love the fact that it also comes with SPF30, so I cannot wait to put this one to the test. At just $7.35 it’s another amazing bargain find!

 


 
*essence all about matt! oil control make-up base
This is a primer which helps to minimise the appearance of pores and balance out oily skin so your makeup will look nicer and stay put for longer, although it can also be used on its own for a shine free finish. Perfect for my combination skin, so I cannot wait to use this one. RRP is just $5.75

 



*essence blush up! Powder blush
So glad that this blush arrived intact too, as it looks absolutely stunning with its tequila-sunrise gradient effect. It promises a subtle colour, yet I am sure it will manage to put some glow onto my sleep-deprived pale face! RRP $6.45

 


 
*essence colour & go nail polish
This colour, Splash is an amazing dark turquoise green metallic shade that is perfect for autumn and winter. And in spite of the low price of just $2.75, these nail polishes are 3-free (contains no formaldehyde, toluene or phthalates), amazing. Other nail polish brands could surely do the same.

 


 
*essence effect nail polish
This glitter jewels nail polish in the colour glitz & glam contains a large amount of pink glitter in varying sizes. It will be stunning to wear on its own, or on top of a solid darker shade for an interesting effect. RRP: $3.65

 


So there you go, these are some of the new products from essence – but before I finish off, let me just show you how much of a mess a broken Eyeshadow can make…

 
 
 


 * Products were kindly provided for consideration, and have been reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
 
Have you ever tried essence makeup? Any of these products that particularly catches your eye?

And as always, if you like in-depth reviews of any of the products, please let me know in the comments below.

If you liked this review, don’t forget to follow my blog on either GFC of Bloglovin’ or like my Facebook page – and of course don’t forget to enter my new international giveaways!

 
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29 August 2013

Industry News: essence launches trend edition “me & my ice cream”

I think most of us have fallen for the products from the brand essence, which continuously brings out special trend editions of products of high quality at amazingly low prices. And now essence has done it again, launching the trend edition "me & my ice cream" consisting of thirteen amazingly cute looking products, right in time for spring and summer..


"I scream: ice cream! essence invites you to make a quick stop at an ice cream cart in October and November 2013 with the trend edition "me & my ice cream". Soft sorbet shades like beige, vanilla, apricot, pink, lavender and mint as well as awesome products in a cool retro look will melt your heart. Look forward to eye shadows in soft nuances with a marbled texture, three lip balms with a colour twirl, a creamy blush, shimmer pearls with perfectly aligned shades and nail polishes in gorgeous pastel tones. The highlights of this trend edition are the nail topping stickers that conjure-up a lovely 3D effect on your nails. And in case your hands get a little sticky while you enjoy your ice cream, you can simply use the practical hand wipes to clean them up again! Gelati, gelati with essence!"
 
 
essence me & my ice cream – baked eye shadow - RRP $4.95
Icy eyes! The long lasting, baked eye shadows in soft caramel, apricot and mint have a creamy texture and a cool marble effect to conjure-up a summery eye make-up style with a light shimmer. Available in 01 cone head, 02 icylicious and 03 always in my mint.



essence me & my ice cream – lip balm - RRP $3.50
Let’s twist! These unique lip balms are available in three different colour combinations: lavender-vanilla, apricot-beige and pink-mint. The colours blend perfectly upon application and look really cute, too! They pamper your lips with shea butter and jojoba oil as well as leaving behind a delicious fragrance. Available in 01 ice, ice baby, 02 icylicious and 03 ben & cherries.




essence me & my ice cream – cream blush - RRP $4.95
Cream dream! This blush with a creamy formula and innovative curvature feels creamy and powdery at the same time. The intensive apricot shade offers a naturally beautiful, fresh complexion. Head out into the sunshine – with a portion of your favourite ice cream! Available in 01 ice bomb.



essence me & my ice cream – shimmer pearls - RRP $5.75
Shimmering scoops of ice cream… the softly shimmering pearls with a light colour dispersion are perfectly aligned with the pastel shades of this trend edition. They give your face and neckline a subtle glow and can even cover-up fine imperfections as well as slight redness thanks to the different nuances. Available in 01 i-cy u.



essence me & my ice cream – nail polish - RRP $2.95.

Strawberry, sweet woodruff, blueberry or apricot? The long-lasting nail polishes in gorgeous pastel shades like pink, mint, lavender and apricot are sure to put you in the mood for ice cream – and summery nails, of course! Available in 01 ben & cherries, 02 always in my mint, 03 ice, ice baby und 04 icylicious.
 
 

essence me & my ice cream – nail topping sticker - RRP $3.50
Rainbow sprinkle toppings! These innovative, self-adhesive stickers create a unique and surprising 3d effect on your nails. The sweet design with a pearl-like look is the ultimate nail style highlight – and not just for ice cream fans! Available in 01 rainbow sprinkles.



essence me & my ice cream – hand wipes - RRP $2.25

Ice cream cone to go? To make sure that your hands are fresh and clean after you enjoy your treat, the me & my ice cream hand wipes come in a practical, re-sealable packaging that’s sure to fit into any purse. And they have a delicious strawberry ice cream fragrance, too! Available in 01 i scream ice cream.

 


The essence "me & my ice cream" will be available exclusively in Priceline stores in October 2013.

I am particularly loving the Shimmer Pearls, don’t they look gorgeous, and such a cute retro packaging too! And the Cream Blush sounds pretty amazing too.. Oh, and how cute are those pastel nail polishes..

What you think of this limited edition trend edition from Essence? What catches your eye? Will you be lining up at your Priceline in October to get your hands on these products?


 
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21 December 2012

Product News: essence Launches the Cherry Blossom Girl Trend Edition

Who hasn’t fallen in love with the products from essence – always so on-trend and always at such affordable prices, that it would almost be a crime not to purchase the whole collection!!!
Well now for some good news – in January 2013 essence whisks you away to the Far East with their latest trend edition Cherry Blossom Girl.
 
 
The colour theme of this trend edition unites soft cherry blossom shades with strong red, bright yellow and cool black. With the elaborately designed paper eyelashes, expressive eyeliner, intense red lips and softly shimmering skin, you can create a fabulous wow-effect!

The essence Cherry Blossom Girl includes;
 
essence Cherry Blossom Girl Quattro Eye Shadow

Two subtle tones in peach and nude as well as two intense colours in brown and red offer endless options and breathtaking eye make-up styles thanks to their silky-soft texture with shimmering and matt effects.
Available in 01 Dreaming under a cherry tree. RRP: $5.95

 
essence Cherry Blossom Girl  - 2-in-1 Eyeliner

Yin & Yang! Both ends of the 2-in-1 eyeliner let you create beautiful, accurate lines – from fine to broad. Thanks to its semi-permanent texture, this eye make-up is extremely long-lasting in a choice of classic black or natural dark brown.

Available in 01 Big in japan and 02 My little kimono. RRP: $5.95
 
 
 
essence Cherry Blossom Girl  - Paper Lashes
Artistically designed paper lashes - the absolute highlight of this trend edition! And here’s how they work: simply apply the included glue to the lash band, position on the back third of your eye and press lightly to make your eyes shine in the hippest Asia style!
Available in 01 Hidden in sakura garden. RRP: $4.50
 


essence Cherry Blossom Girl  - Lipstick pencil
Cherry blossom lips! The intense and velvety matt finish in a strong red or trendy apricot turns this practical lipstick pencil into a true must-have item!
Available in 01 Cherry cherry girl and 02 It’s peach not cherry.
RRP: $3.50




essence Cherry Blossom Girl  - Highlighter Pen
Eye-catcher deluxe! The fine, softly-shimmering texture in a light rose gives the area around your eyes the natural radiance of an Asian beauty. The highlighter pen comes with a twist mechanism and stands out for its easy application with the integrated brush.
Available in 01 Konnichiwa girls! RRP: $4.95


 
essence Cherry Blossom Girl - Blush

Rosy cheeks! The multi-colour blush creates a fresh and rosy complexion and the cool embossed cherry blossom design is absolutely eye catching too!
Available in 01 Asian sensation. RRP: $5.95

 

 
essence Cherry Blossom Girl – Nail Polish
Tokyo in summer – warm colours with high coverage in the shades of the late summer such as sunny yellow, red and apricot ensure a long-lasting Far Eastern nail design with plain or shimmering effects. Available in 01 Fortune cookie, 02 My little kimono, 03 Cherry cherry girl and 04 It’s peach not cherry.
RRP: $3.50



 
essence Cherry Blossom Girl – Shimmering Body Powder
Not just for Geishas! The subtly fragrant body powder with a decorative powder puff offers your face, neck and décolleté a fine shimmer for a radiant look. The pleasant flowery fragrance pampers your senses and whisks you away to the country of the rising sun.
Available in 01 Hello glitty. RRP: $6.50
 
The essence Cherry Blossom Girl Trend Edition will be available exclusively in Priceline Stores in January 2013.

*All images supplied by essence

A few months ago, essence launced the Twilight Breaking Dawn collection, and I believe that the products were sold out in no time. If you havent yet seen this range, you can see it here.

Now doesn’t this Cherry Blossom Girl trend edition look absolutely amazing?! So if you want to get your hands on any of the products, you better be ready to shop when the range launches!

Personally I love the look and sound of the Shimmering Body Powder, and love the look of the colours in the eye shadow palette too.

What about you? Are you going to be rushing to the stores to get your hands on this collection? Which products do you have your eyes on?
 
 

 
 
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20 December 2012

Product News: essence Launches Show Your Feet Barefoot Beauties Trend Edition

Temperatures are rising and we’re getting into a super-barefoot-summer mood! So that nothing can spoil our joyous anticipation at being reunited with our flip-flops, peep toes & sandals, the essence show your feet trend edition “barefoot beauties” presents a special product collection to highlight your gorgeous feet, nails and legs in January and February 2013. Practical beauty helpers make winter feet look pampered, fresh and stylish again in a flash!



The essence show your feet barefoot beauties collection contains;

essence Barefoot Beauties - Toe Nail Polish
Spring evokes a passion for colour, colour, colour! So the motto of barefoot beauties is of course: colour your nails! Green? Violet? Blue? Coral or Red? With five bright colours that offer your toe nails fabulous coverage and long-lasting style, the ultimate summer feeling is only a brushstroke away!
Available in 21 Purple party, 22 Green lagoon, 23 Underwater love, 24 Coral me beautiful and 25 Kiss of the mermaid. (Shown below from left to right, Underwater love, Kiss of the mermaid and Coral me beautiful).
RRP: $3.95


 
essence show your feet barefoot beauties - Super-Soft Toe Separator
If you change the colour of your toe nails often, you probably like to do it comfortably and quick. So it’s great news that there are super-soft toe separators by essence! The soft material ideally adapts to the shape of your toes, separates them perfectly and makes applying nail polish super easy. A perfect little helper for the most gorgeous accessory of the summer 2012!
RRP: $2.29

 

essence show your feet barefoot beauties - Toe Protection Gel Stripes
Flip-flop lovers take note: from now on, you can say goodbye to that pesky ache between your toes when you wear a new pair! These practical transparent gel stripes by essence are shaped in such a way that they are almost invisible but are still ultra-effective. No chaffing, no pressure points - simply fix the sticky side of the strip around the toe strap and get the summer party started!
RRP:$4.95

 

essence show your feet barefoot beauties - Gel Shoe Pads
Mega high-heels don’t have to stress your feet if you have the right little helpers! The transparent, super soft gel shoe pads by essence offer your feet added grip and relief. Aching feet, pressure points and blisters? Not with essence! Special massage points even provide comfort on 12cm

heels - for hours and hours! Party nights? Let’s dance! And here’s how: place the gel pad in your shoe with the tip facing the heel, press lightly and you’re done! For repeated application, simply rinse under clear water and place in the next pair of high-heels that you want to show off! In a summery flower design.
RRP: $5.95

 

essence show your feet barefoot beauties – Ankle Bracelet
Pampered summer legs and feet look even more gorgeous with jewellery! This cute ankle bracelet by essence sets colourful accents on your ankle with its enticing turquoise or violet shades and Mediterranean pendants and pearls. A stylish finishing touch for all barefoot beauties!

RRP: $5.95
 
 

*All images provided by Essence.

essence Show Your Feet Barefoot Beauties will be available in Target and Priceline stores in January and February 2013.

Apart the nail polishes (obviously!!), I just love the sound and look of the Gel Shoe Pads, and how good do the Toe Protection Gel Stripes sound!!!
What do you think? What will you rush to the stores to get when this collection is launched?

 
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