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16 August 2017

PRODUCT REVIEW: CLINIQUE ALL ABOUT EYES SERUM AND RICH FROM ACTIVESKIN

One of the very first Luxe brands I started using decades ago, as soon as I could afford it, was Clinique, and immediately fell in love with their products, and today, many of their products remain among my favourite products which I continue to repurchase again and again. But today, thanks to Activeskin, I am going to talk about two different eye creams, namely, the Clinique All About Eyes Serum De-Puffing Eye Massage and the All About Eyes Rich... 



Let's start with the Clinique All About Eyes Serum De-Puffing Eye Massage, which is a very light eye serum that comes in a roller-ball applicator bottle, which makes it super easy and quick to apply. The roller ball helps to gently massage the eye area, and the ball as well as the serum has a lovely cooling feeling which feels lovely on tired eyes, and I find immediately helps revive and de-puff tired and puffy eyes.

It is contains among others caffeine, potent antioxidants and soothing botanicals, and also helps hydrate the and brighten the eye area, while fighting those dreaded dark circles.

The serum is oil-free and as it is so light, it absorbs so quickly into the skin, so you can apply makeup on top immediately

It can be used both morning and evening, and can even be layered with other eye creams, by using them on top if you like, but personally I find that it is perfect on its own during the day, and for use under makeup, - also because, I find that using too rich eye creams during the day can interfere and no to mention reduce the wear of my makeup.

It has a slightly odd scent, but certainly one that you can tolerate, also as it fades quickly, but apart from that, I am really enjoying this eye serum with everything from the roller applicator, to how silky soft and smooth it makes my eye area feel, and of course not to mention, helps make my super tired and tired eyes look a little more awake each morning.

Then there's the Clinique All About Eyes Rich, which is kind of at the other end of the scale, as it is a very rich and thicker eye cream that provides intense moisture to the eye area (note that it also comes in a normal version if this is too rich for your skin) - and while I have combination skin, I do feel that I need that extra moisture around my eye area. In spite of this eye cream being so rich, it is not greasy, and still absorbs fairly quickly into the skin. It promises to help diminish the look of under eye circles, shadows, and fine lines-immediately and over time, while helping to protect natural collagen production and strengthens skin's moisture barrier, as well as de-puffing the eye area thanks to the added soothing botanicals.

It can be used morning and night, but as mentioned above, I prefer to use the eye serum on its own under makeup, so I have been using this predominantly as a night eye cream, and only during the day on the days I've been makeup free at home. That said, the few occasions where I have used makeup on top, it hasn't caused any issues, as again, while is rich, it isn't greasy.

And I can clearly see that my eye area is loving this intense moisture as it is obvious that it is plumping my skin, making my lines look less noticeable, and therefore fresher and I guess I can say more well rested each morning too.

These two eye creams are very different in their consistency, and benefits too - but I actually love using both, and find it hard to say which I like the best as I feel the All About Eyes Serum De-Puffing Eye Massage is fantastic for use during the day under makeup, while the All About Eyes Rich gives my eye area that little bit of extra TLC during the night. I can easily see myself repurchasing both again!


Clinique All About Eyes Serum De-Puffing Eye Massage - RRP: $52 / 15ml
Clinique All About Eyes Rich - RRP: $58 / 15ml

Available from Activeskin


About Activeskin – 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 have a 'Best Price Promise, which you can read more about here. 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.

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

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PRODUCT REVIEW: BLUNT LITE UMBRELLA

I love autumn, and how the leaves on the trees turn into the most beautiful shades of burnt orange and deep red. But what I don't like, is, apart from the dropping temperatures and the quick arrival of winter is the rain that always comes too. And the chilling winds. But at least this season, I'll have a beautiful Blunt to keep me protected. 

So what makes Blunt Umbrellas so different. I think we've all owned an absolute umbrella, that fails at the first drop of rain, and which at the slightest wind blow turns upside down, and then end up in landfill. Blunt, on the other hand, are ergonomically engineered to not only be fun to use, but also to be stable and aerodynamic and withstand the strongest of elements. Blunt has some unique features, including;

  • A tensioning system that helps it handle extreme wind and storm conditions 
  • A slider system that uses an intuitive opening mechanism that utilises the latest push pull technology 
  • Double struts designed to maximise the efforts used to open the umbrella 
  • Floating 4mm fibreglass ribs for strength at the fully tensioned canopy so it can combat gusts and winds with ease 
  • Blunt tips, distributing energy around the edge of the canopy 
  • The rounded Blunt tips put an end to the otherwise hazardous tips, and the curved leather handle is also safer, as well as make it easier to carry the umbrella. 
  • And to further ensure the highest possible quality, the Blunt Umbrellas have undergone a massive 38 point quality check, and also come with a 2 year global warranty. 

Blunt is a New Zealand brand, and they have several different models available, but I've been using the Lite model, which is their lightest mid-sided umbrella. I got the orange shade, which is so fresh and vibrant, ad I so love it, as is such a refreshing chance from the usual black umbrellas, plus, it really brightens up a grey and rainy day too. But it is also available in a heap of other stunning colours, as well as stunning special designer editions.

No, it's not a cheap umbrella, but I've lost count of the amount of umbrellas I've bought and thrown away over the years as they have simply been useless - with Blunt you've not just got a super stylish umbrella that will last you for years, you can also rest assured that it will keep you dry when you need it.


Blunt Lite - RRP. $129
Available from Blunt online and select stockists * Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.




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11 August 2017

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. 



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10 August 2017

PRODUCT REVIEW: RIMMEL LONDON VOLUME SHAKE MASCARA, FILLING POWDER AND FIBRE PENCIL

One of those drugstore brands that has really hit the mark lately with their products, is Rimmel London - and now they've certainly done it again with their newest releases, which include the Volume Shake Mascara, Brow Shake Filling Powder and Brow This Way Fibre Pencil..




Let's start with the Rimmel London Volume Shake Mascara, which has what claims is the first-to-market patented shaker system that refreshes the volumising formula whenever it’s needed, which essentially also means that the mascara is never dry, as the formula is made up from a combination of water and waxes, which goes from dry to creamy whenever it is given a shaken 3-5 times. The mascara is thereby refreshed, for maximum result from the first to the last use. The mascara also promises clump-free volume, and smudge free defined lashes 

I haven't personally noticed the mascara go dry yet, but that's perhaps because I unconsciously has been given it a quick shake before each use. I do like the large wand of this mascara, which is easy to use on both top and lower lashes, easily coating even the smaller lashes in the corners. It does take a few moments to dry, so you have to be a little patient.

As for volume and definition, it does certainly add both definition and length without any clumping, making my lashes look very natural, it also adds a touch of volume, but nothing too dramatic, so it is a great mascara for every day casual and natural look.

Because of the shaker system, the mascara is a little bulky, but I never apply makeup on the go, so as I never carry mascara around, I personally I don't really mind.

Then there's the Rimmel Brow Shake Filling Powder, which also needs to be given a shake to disperse the powder to fill, line define and line the brows. The powder is soft and quite pigmented so one stroke is more than sufficient for my brows, though you can build up the intensity. And as promised, it is fade, smudge, transfer and waterproof, so it really does stay put until you remove it at night with makeup remover. It has a small and very narrow little sponge applicator which makes it easy to apply precisely, drawing along your brows and filling them in, though I do find that it has a little fall-out when you apply it, so be sure to tap off any excess powder before using it, or you'll end up with a less than natural look and a bit of a mess. But that said, once I mastered using it, I've really come to enjoy this one and can see myself repurchasing. It come in four shades, and I used the Dark Brown, which is perfect for my medium brown brows.

Finally, there's the Rimmel Brow This Way Fibre Pencil. This brow pencil has nylon fibres to give definition, and claims to be the first of its kind brow-plumping pencil, that is to be highly pigmented to softly fill in brows for an intense yet natural colour. It deposits tiny integrated fibres to add realistic volume to sparse areas. The fibres hold fast to brows for long-lasting wear. I am not sure if it was because I'd just tried the Filling Powder, but I have to say that I did not find the pencil pigmented at all and I was struggling getting any colour at all, but after warming it a little on my hands, it did help a little, though I still wouldn't call it highly pigmented. However, that said, for an everyday casual look, I do like how it helps define by brows and make them look more groomed, and yes, all while looking very natural and far from drawn on unlike many other brow pencils - but I am not sure I actually find that it is giving my brows more volume, just more fullness. If you're after an intense bold look, this Fibre Pencil is not for you, but if you just want to subtly define your brows whilst keeping a natural 'no-makeup' look, then its certainly worth a try.


So there you go, the newest product releases from Rimmel, and yet again, some great ones. If I have to take a pick, the standout for me, once I got used to it, would have to be the Filling Powder.


Rimmel London Volume Shake Mascara, RRP $18.95 / 9ml
Rimmel London Brow Shake Filling Powder - RRP: $14.95 /0.7g
Rimmel London Brow This Way Fibre Pencil - RRP: $10.95/ 1.08g

Available from Priceline, Target, Kmart, BIG W, selected pharmacies and selected Coles and Woolworths

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


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9 August 2017

PRODUCT REVIEW: THALGO SILICIUM CONCENTRATE INTENSIVE RESTRUCTURING CELLULAR BOOSTER

As a beauty blogger I know that I am very fortunate to get to try a large selection of products, which does mean that I swap and change a lot - but whenever I am not testing anything, there are certain products that I always revert to. And so, one of my favourite foundations is without a doubt the Thalgo Silicium Anti-Ageing Foundation as it is simply so perfect for my mature combination skin, or for more casual days, the Thalgo BB Cram (you can read more about them here) - but hence when the Thalgo Silicium Concentrate Intensive Restructuring Cellular Booster landed on my desk, I naturally got very excited and couldn't wait to put it to the test. 


The Thalgo Silicium Concentrate Intensive Restructuring Cellular Booster (phew, what a name to remember!!) is an intensely re-sculpting, this highly concentrated serum that is to be used as a one month intensive treatment prior to moisturiser, morning and/or evening, which can be repeated several times throughout the year. It is aimed at those with mature skin 40+ looking for anti-ageing treatments. It promises to among others;
  • Hydrate the skin 
  • Redensifies the skin 
  • Protects hyaluronic acid production 
  • Restructures the skin 
  • Redefines facial contours 
  • Fight against visible wrinkles and skin slackening and loss of firmness to eyelids, facial contours and neck 

With my combination skin prone to breakouts, I am always a little concerned when I try new anti-ageing products, as they are often very rich, and often quickly make my skin congested and breakout. Not easy being in the age bracket where anti-ageing is needed, but your skin acts like a teenager's!

But I didn't need to worry. This concentrate is extremely light and non-greasy, and has not made my skin feel or look greasier, or caused any breakouts. It absorbs immediately into the skin, and leaves it so incredibly soft and with a velvety smooth finish, while clearly it is adding intense hydration to the skin.

And after just a few days of using morning and evening, I started to see results, which only got better and better each day. My skin not only enjoyed the intense hydration and looked so much softer and smoother, but also more relaxed and rested, but more importantly more plump, to the point that fine lines, especially those around my eyes, and that annoying frown line between my brows, have clearly minimised in size. I am not sure if my skin and facial contours are lifted and redefined as claimed, but as such, my skin is, thankfully, not really sagging yet either, but given the other results I have seen, I am convinced that a few more treatment rounds will see some results there too.

I am also loving the fact that it leaves my skin feeling so velvety soft, and that it also works so perfectly under makeup during the day, and actually, I feel that it makes my makeup look more flawless too.

I also love that it is completely free from all the chemical nasties such as parabens, mineral oils, GMO and propylen glycol.

The serum is not cheap, but it is seriously concentrated stuff, and I am expecting that there will be sufficient concentrate in the bottle for approx three rounds of treatment, ie. three months. And given the results of this, I find that it is well worth it if you're looking do something extra for your skin, perhaps in the lead up a special event such as a wedding.

Thalgo Silicium Concentrate Intensive Restructuring Cellular Booster - RRP: $146.50 / 30ml
Available from Thalgo, Activeskin, Adore Beauty, Facial Co

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


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