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16 September 2017

PRODUCT REVIEW: HOLA HONEY ANTI-AGEING SKINCARE

Today it is all about HOLA, an Australian brand made with just the simplest of natural ingredients, and I'm going to be talking about some of the anti-wrinkle products which are made using Australian grown honey. 


There are several products in the anti-ageing range, including the HOLA Anti-Wrinkle Cleanser. This foaming cleanser is made wit h among others honey extract and lecithin to help remove makeup and any excess sebum and dead skin cells to keep the pores clean, while leaving the skin feeling so soft and smooth, and without feeling it has been dried out or stripped for essential moisture. It is very gentle, so it is perfect for all skin types, including those with dry or ageing skin. I also love using it as my second cleanse, after removing my makeup, with my Clairsonic or Foreo, for that deeply cleansed skin that is even more glowing and radiant. It has the most gorgeous sweet floral scent that you can only love.

I admit that one of those skincare steps I am bad at skipping is toner, and I am not really sure why, as I do love the feeling of using a toner on my skin. The HOLA Honey Anti-Wrinkle Toner is also infused with honey along with hyaluronic acid to help remove every last bit of makeup, while replenishing the skin's moisture balance, regenerate the skin and smooth wrinkles. It is best used after cleansing, but putting a few drops onto a cotton pad and wiping it over the face, or alternatively putting a few drops into the palm of your hand and padding it into the skin. I really like the cooling and soothing effect of this toner, and like the cleanser, it has a lovely floral scent.

Finally, there's my absolute favourite of the three, the HOLA Honey Anti-Wrinkle Glazing Mask. This gel mask is made using honey extract, toothed wrack extract and Hyaluronic Acid to help moisturise and repair skin, while boosting the skin's elasticity and firmness for a reveal smoother and younger-looking skin. The mask which has a very light watery gel consistency, is best used after cleansing and toning, and then applying a small amount evenly to the face and neck, before massaging it into the skin until it is fully absorbed. Hereafter leaving it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing it off. With my combination skin, I am always cautious with masks like this, but this one is seriously so super light and absorbs immediately into the skin without any greasiness or stickiness, so you almost forget you're wearing it. And removed, it really does leave my skin looking and feeling so soft and smooth. I am not sure I can tell any difference with my sin's firmness or elasticity, but like that this mask gives my skin a boost of extra moisture and leaves my skin more glowing. It comes in a in a jar, while I would have preferred a tube, at least it does come with an included little spatula so you don't have to keep digging your fingers into the jar.


All in all these products from HOLA really are lovely. They all smell incredible, and I love that they are made in Australia, and that they are so well priced too. Definitely worth a try.

HOLA Honey Anti-Wrinkle Cleanser - RRP: $22.00 / 100ml
HOLA Honey Anti-Wrinkle Toner - RRP: $27.00 / 190ml
HOLA Honey Anti-Wrinkle Glazing Mask - RRP: $36.00 / 120g

Available from Glamourflage

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



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15 September 2017

PRODUCT REVIEW: VERA WANG PRINCESS OF HEARTS EAU DE TOILETTE

Today I'm excited to share a new fragrance launch with you, Vera Wang's latest fragrance, Princess of Hearts Eau de Toilette; 


This new Princess of Hearts is described as "a bright, fresh exuberance and whimsical warmth that makes it unexpected, addictive and full of love. Celebrate life and love every day with this fruity and floral scent from Vera Wang."

The fragrance has the following notes;

  • Top notes - Bergamot, Wild Strawberry, Watermelon 
  • Middle notes - Lily of the Valley, Star Jasmine 
  • Base notes - Vanilla, Whipped Cream, Musk, Cedar 


This is a very light fruity floral scent thanks to the watermelon and strawberry, and it is therefore the perfect scent for spring and summer. The added vanilla and cream does help make it less sweet and gives it a slightly powdery feel too, while the musk and cedar helps make it very balanced, while maintaining the its freshness.

As I prefer fresh and fruity scents, this is a perfect spring and summer sent for me. The fact that it is light, and that it is an EdT too, does mean that longevity could be better - but that said, I can still detect it by the afternoon, so if you're going out at night you may want to reapply.

Like the previous Vera Wang Princess fragrances, it comes in a stunning 3D heart-shaped bottle, this one clear, but printed all over with arty grafitti-style red hearts. Which makes it absolutely stunning. The lid, as per previous versions is a crown shaped cap with pink 'diamonds', as well as a removable ring, also featuring pink 'diamonds', which I think is intentional so you can use it as a pretty ring on your finger. But overall such a pretty bottle that will look stunning on display on any dresser.

This fragrance is perfect if you like a light and fresh fruity floral scent, or something too overpowering. I know I'll be reaching for it again and again this spring and summer, so be sure to go check it out before its too late, as it is a limited edition..


Vera Wang Princess of Heats - RRP: $49 / 50ml

Available from Priceline, Department stores and select pharmacies and other retailers. Contact 1800 812 663 for full stockist details.

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


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14 September 2017

PRODUCT REVIEW: GOODNESS BE BRIGHT CHIA SERUM

Today I've got an amazing new product launch to share with you... I LOVE avocados - and now I can slather it on my face too, with the newly launched Goodness Be Bright Chia Serum.. Intrigued.. Make sure to read on..


If you haven't heard of Goodness yet, do yourself a favour and get acquainted. The brand makes products that are full of nothing but goodness, with all the nasties such as parabens, petrochemicals, PEGs, sulfates, silicones, harsh surfactants of course left out. In addition, the products are of course also not tested on animals and them come in biodegradable packaging to look after our environment too. Oh, and let me not forget to mention that they are made in New Zealand.

The Goodness Be Bright Chia Serum is made from botanical extracts specially chosen to help plump and brighten. These include among others;
  • Chia seed oil, which is loaded with omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory, nourishing and hydrating benefits
  • Avocado oil, which is rich in potassium, vitamins D and E, magnesium and linoleic acid to support the skin's moisture balance, promote water retention and strengthen the dermis
  • Coconut oil, which has antibacterial properties helping to heal and repair, as well as nourish and hydrate the skin
  • Hyaluronic acid, which has anti-ageing and antioxidant benefits, hydrating the skin and protecting its barrier
  • Hibiscus extract to protect the skin from daily pollution and external aggressors
  • Honeysuckle extract which has antioxidant, antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial properties
  • Aloe vera juice which has cooling and calming properties and also helps maintain the moisture balance

I absolutely love that this Goodness Be Bright Chia Serum is certified organic and made using 99% natural ingredients, and absolutely none of the nasties.

In spite of all its intense moisturising benefits, this serum is seriously light, so I didn't have to worry that it would be too intense for my combination skin - it has the consistency of a light milky-white lotion and it absorbs immediately into my skin, and leaves it feeling so silky soft and smooth, and without any greasiness, so it is also perfect for using under makeup.

Being a serum, you can naturally use it prior to your usual moisturiser but added punch, especially if you've got drier skin, but personally, as my skin is a little on the greasier side, I have days where I feel this adds more than sufficient care for my skin.

And after having used it for a few weeks I have to say that I am beyond impressed with this little bottle of Goodness, which comes at the surprisingly low cost of just $19.95. It also comes in a cute little bottle with a girly pink label, and it also has a beautiful natural floral scent you can only love. But of course, what's more important, is what it has done to my skin..

In short, this Goodness Be Bright Chia Serum has clearly given my skin a moisture boost that I didn't know it needed, making it look more hydrate and plump. No, my lines and wrinkles have not miracously disappeared, but some of the fine lines are definitely looking smaller and clearly less visible. And consequently, my skin is also looking healthier and more radiant, brighter and more youthful too.

I am so hooked on this, and strongly suggest you check it out too, you'll love it, and at that low price, you 're really got nothing to lose.


Goodness Be Bright Chia Serum - RRP: $19.95 / 30ml
Available from Goodness and select stockists

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

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PRODUCT REVIEW: NEUTROGENA HYDRO BOOST WATER GEL CLEANSER AND GELEE MILK CLEANSER

Who doesn't love Neutrogena. I know I do. Their products are always great value for money, and so effective too. I have so many favourites from the brand. So today I'm excited to share with you two new launches, the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Cleanser and the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gelee Milk Cleanser. 


Both of these cleansers are developed with Hyaluronic Acid and Barrier Care technology to help boost the sin's hydration levels and lock it in, to help gently cleanse the skin without disrupting the skin barrier by keeing the skin, not only clean, but also hydrated and soft.

There are two new versions, the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Cleanser and the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gelee Milk Cleanser. The Hydro Boost Gelee Milk Cleanser is best applied with a cotton pad that you gently wipe over your face and eyes to remove all makeup, including waterproof mascara along with dirty and excess oil, and without irritating my sensitive eyes. It combines the effectiveness of milk with the lightness of gel, and it feels so lovely and refreshing, and also soothing on the skin. It doesn't need to be rinsed off, but you can if you prefer.

The other version, is the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Cleanser. This cleanser works like a 'normal' gel cleanser that you lather up with water while massaging it into the face to remove all makeup, dirty and excess oil, before rinsing your face thoroughly. I do feel that it struggles a little to remove my waterproof eye makeup, but I don't mind as I'm used to using a special eye makeup remover for my mascara anyway. It also feels very gentle on the skin, and again my skin is left feeling clean, soft and smooth.

While both cleansers seem to clean my skin very well, I do prefer the Water Gel, as I somehow feels it cleanses my skin more thoroughly, even though I feel it struggles with the eye makeup. I have also enjoyed using it with my Clairsonic or Foreo.

Both Cleansers come in gorgeous turquoise bottles, and both have subtle beautiful scents, though the Water Gel is a tad stronger in the fragrance, which personally I don't mind. But regardless of which option pick, I love that they both give my skin a moisture boost, while so effectively and gently cleansing my skin.


Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel Cleanser - RRP: $15.99 / 145ml
Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gelee Milk Cleanser - RRP: $15.99 / 145ml

Available from Woolworths, Coles, Priceline, Variety stores and select pharmacies

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

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13 September 2017

PRODUCT REVIEW: BELLA BOX SEPTEMBER 2017

Can you believe it, another month has passed, and thankfully it is now officially spring, though it would be nice if the weather would acknowledge that too, and give us some warmer weather! A new months also means a new Bella Box, and the September 2017 Bella Box has the theme Front Row Fab... 



Let's see what was in this month's box.. 


John Frieda Frizz Ease Forever Smooth Leave In Cream Primer - Sample, 20mlg (RRP: $16.99 / 100ml)


I only recently put a few of the other products from this range to the test, and really liked them, so happy with the inclusion of this. I am always looking for a good leave-in, and this one promising to eliminate frizz and keep the hair smooth, sounds pretty good to my ears. Cant wait to try it. Product value approx. $3.40


Derma E Purifying 2 in 1 Charcoal Mask - Sample, 14g (RRP: $34.95 / 48g)

With a skin prone to breakouts, I am always looking for a great mask, and this mask does sound great. It is infused with charcoal, natural clays and antioxidants and promises to remove excess oil while exfoliating the skin, for a fresher, and healthier glow. I am also excited about this as this brand is completely new to me. Bring on pamper night! Approx. value $10.20


Avene Extremely Gentle Cleansing Lotion - Sample, 25ml (RRP: $31.95 / 200ml)
I have previously tried this cleanser from an inclusion in a beauty subscription box, so as such it doesn't really excite me. That said, I actually quite like this gentle cleanser, so on the other hand, I don't mind that its included. it is efficient, and leaves my skin feeling soft and calm. The small bottle is also perfect for travelling. Approx. value $3.99


Stylondon Siligel Blender - Full size (RRP: $14 / one blender)
Silicone makeup blenders is all the rave at the moment, so the inclusion of this one is very fitting. This one is very cute with its pastel pink glittery design. I like the idea that it can easily be cleaned, and thus is so much more hygienic than a standard makeup sponge. I am yet to try a silicone sponge, so look forward to seeing how I go. Value $14.00


ModelCo Instant Brow Retractable Pencil - Full Size (RRP: $16 / 1g)
After years of over-plucking, I am always looking for great brow products - and admit that in spite of all the rave reviews, I have tried very few products from ModelCo. So I am quite excited to be putting this brow pencil to the test. It has a wind-up pencil at one end with a pointed tip to make it easy to fill in the brows, and in the other end, it has a nifty spoolie to brush brows into shape afterwards. Certainly a great inclusion. Can't wait to try it out. Value $16.00


Bonus - Swisspers Original Facial Wipes - sample pack/one wipe.
As I've said many times before, I am not a huge user of facial wipes, only when I'm travelling which these days I don't do a lot - so not too excited about this one. That said, I have tried the Swisspers wipes before and they are lovely, and the single wipe, will be handy to pop into the handbag for emergencies too.


So there you go, this months Bella Box. From a novelty aspect, two brands are new to me, Derma E and Styllondon, which is great, as for me, beauty boxes is also about getting to know new brands. In general I am happy with the included products, and look forward to putting most to the test. And from a variety point of view, I also like the selection this month, which ranges from makeup hair care and skincare. I also think it is great that there are a two full sized products included, the ModelCo Pencil and the Siligel Blender, and the rest of the samples are of a decent deluxe size giving you a fair opportunity to test out a product to see if you like it. Value wise, due to the two full sized products, the value is also quite decent this month at approx. $47, which is pretty good considering the $17.95 cost of the box. So well done Bella Box on putting together a fantastic box yet again this month.


Bella Box - RRP: $17.95 ($15.00+ $2.95 P&H) on a subscription plan, billed monthly, but you can cancel anytime

Available from Bella Box

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


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