Hey Readers, Hope this post finds you well!! Once again we find ourselves at the end of another month and as I was compiling my list of favorites I can definitely say that this cold weather has inspired many choices this month!! And I dare say that the next couple of months Favs will most likely be the same!!
NYX Matte Bronzer in the shade MBB01 Light
This bronzer was apart of my purchases from beauty joint earlier in the year and while I had heard lots of good reviews after trying it I felt it was just too orange!! So earlier this month when I was watching a get ready with me video by MissTango2 (go check out her video to see what it looks like on the skin) and found myself loving the way her bronzer looked, I had to read the commets to find out what she had used. To my surprise I owned it!! I pulled it out of my stash and decided to give it another go. I know realise the key to this bronzer is to use a fluffy brush, I have been using either the real techniques blush brush or multi task brush to both contour and blend from my temples to my jaw line it really makes this bronzer disperse evenly and give a leave a beautiful glow. This one is also matte which means that sweeping it all over doesn't leave you looking like a disco ball!!! I have really enjoyed it adding both colour and warmth to an everyday look.
Real Techniques Muti Task Brush
This is quite a new addition to my brush collection, I really like brushes that lend them selves to multiple tasks. It has been my go to brush for both bronzer and setting powder this month. Its fluffy enough to sweep on bronzer but dense enough to put pick up powder setting your foundation and giving coverage. I also really love it as it does the job with so little effort and flawless results. Like the other members of the real techniques family it washes well, dries easily and hasn't shed a hair. (I buy my real techniques brushes from iHerb.com if ordering for the first time use the discount code WJQ942 to get $10 off purchases over $40 or $5 off if your total is under $40)
Hot Mama by theBalm
I know I have put this in a favorites earlier in the year but its one blush I just keep finding myself coming back to. I no sooner put it back into my makeup case and I'm searching for it again. It's just that perfect not too pink not to coral blush that has shimmer but its so fine that on the cheeks all your left with is a subtle glow. It's blush I know will look good no matter what!!
Essence Home Sweet Home blush in the shade 02 Wool-d you cuddle me?
Another blush I have been using a lot this month, not only because the print in the powder looks so pretty but also because I get the best of both worlds with this one you have both a peachy apricot side with a strip of peachy pink in the middle it makes this blush really customisable so you can either have blush be more pink or more apricot either way it gives a really nice glow to the cheeks and lasts all day!!! This was apart of the Home Sweet Home trend (collection) released by Essence during April and sadly that does mean it was limited addition :(. But I do recommend trying the blushes that essence release often their limited addition ones are matte but also really great quality for a blush that is only costing you $6-7.
Lucas Paw Paw ointment
I've most likely added this product to a past favorites as well and like my blush I always find myself reaching for a tube of this. My lips have been so cracked and dry that I have really been needing something that soothes and protects as well as lasts a long time. No other lip balm this month really has done the job. I have used it morning, noon and night.
Sigma Blending Brush
If you have seen my bellabox post this month you will know I really haven't owned this for that long but this brush really is amazing!!! Its so soft to touch as well as on the eyes and it blends easily. Whether its blurring harsh lines or getting colour into the crease. I really like the shorter handle to perfect for travel easily fits into a smaller makeup bag when space is tight!!!
Target Free Fusion Pom Pom Sequin Scarf in black.
The winter chill has set in and most of my scarf collection is getting a work out!!! I was going away for the weekend earlier in the month and was in Target looking for a jacket to be able to wear out to dinner I didn't find one BUT I did stumble upon this scarf its long, back and has multi coloured sequins sewn in and pom poms at each end. It not only went with the outfit I had picked for dinner but also went with everything else I had planned to wear. Dressed up and casual this scarf has matched and has kept me warm ever since.
So that ends another months favorites. Hope you are doing well and staying warm during the cold and wet weather we are having (particularly in QLD)!!!! And Ill talk to you soon!!!
Ever.
Hey Readers,
Hope you are all doing well!!! Another month has gone and June Bellabox has just arrived at my door. So I thought it time to put my thoughts together on the box that was!!!.
Longitalite C4 Coconut Milk Hydrating and Nourashing Facial Mask
I actually ended up re gifting this one to my sister she was telling me that her skin had been really dry and did I have anything in my stash of cosmetic goodies that would help. So I went through my little (fast becoming HUGE) stash of products and picked up this. She really loved it not getting a lot of me time as a new mum this was the perfect excuse and much cheaper than a facial!!!
Suico Absolute Volume Keratin Treatment
I have really enjoyed using this one my hair has definetly benifited from the little extra TLC. This treatment smells great, easy to apply and you get results even if you only leave it in for 5 mins (recommendation is 10-20). My hair does have a bit more volume to it but it also feels healthier and is still manageable. Will most definitely keep using!!
Bloom Shadow Liner.
Was so excited to see this one in the box last month and have really enjoyed putting that pop of colour into my usually neutral looks for work. The emerald green is just the perfect shade and over the top a gold/bronze toned shadow it really pops!!! The flat shaped tip does take a bit to get used to but being a creamy liner it just glides on!!! Perfect!!
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo
Given most of the description on the packaging is in french I did have to use my friend google to find out a bit more on this product. This basically works in two ways (hence the duo). It uses the ingredients Niacinamide and Piroctone Olamine to stop bacteria multiplication and eliminate underlying imperfections while at the same time LHA and Linoleic Acid unclogs pores blocked with excess sebum and dead skin cells. Primarily I have used this as a spot treatment both on areas I have felt needed it. While I have had a few imperfections arise as a result within a couple of days of days of use they are gone and skin is clear.
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Foaming Gel
Have really enjoyed this cleanser the gel is clear with no colour or fragrance and I could not believe how much it foams, it cleans the skin and leaves it feeling smooth and soft. Wish we had gotten this in a slightly larger size!!!!
Manicare Duo Length and Define Disposable Mascara Brushes
Was not sure if I would even use these at first but I have been pleasantly surprised. This month I have been using the Rimmel Scandaleyes Flex mascara and the brush on the wand is massive. It has taken a lot to get used and I have found the size does make it a little tricky to get the bottom lashes. So I thought I would make use these wands one day instead and the really are amazing!! One is an average size brush which like most really catches, coats and separates lashes, while the other is a little smaller perfect for bottom lashes. You have the best of both worlds and get to keep your mascara!!! I would recommend if you have a mascara that you love the formula but not the wand!!!
Sanctuary Spa Brightening Facial Illuminating Moisture Lotion SPF 15
Another product I have really enjoyed this month!! Primarily I have used this as a base for makeup I really like having the SPF as well as I have found this really hydrating, despite being combination oily I do get dry patches in the winter and this has helped keep them at bay. I do recommend though that you only use a small amount, it not only goes a long way but over doing it can leave you looking a bit to shiny!!!!
OK so onto June's box OMG this months BB really is amazing and I am so excited!! I really am loving the theme and all the products that have arrived I think this is probably the best BB so far this year!!! This month the theme is Girls night In or Girls night out not only is this box full of amazing products but even the bonus product fits the theme.
Streetstar Cosmetics StreetGloss Lip Gloss recieved a full size in the shade 102 Transparent Pale Pink.
A gorgeous not to sticky easy to apply gloss This as the name says a transparent pale pink in some lights it looks clear and in other a soft pale pink with a brush applicator it goes on quite smooth and has a small amount of stickyness!! Perfect for a night out!!
Sigma Beauty E25 Blending Brush
This really caused and OMG moment for me!! I cannot believe that BB have managed to include a sigma makeup brush. I have lusted after these brushes for a while and have heard nothing but good reviews for every single brush in the line. But every time I go to the website and start choosing I can't make up my mind or everything I've added to they cart gets so expensive I can't afford but also can't decide what not to get!! This blending brush is amazing so soft to touch, even on the eyes no scrathcyness here!!! So excited and this is most likely going to see me spending ALOT of money on new brushes!!! WOW WOW WOW!!!
Toni&Guy Hair Meet Wairdrobe Creative Texturising Glue recieved a 100ml full size.
The name is a mouthful but this product is said to be able to be used on short or long hair (YAY!!) and can not only add texture to the hair but be used to tame flyaways, hold down a fringe, braid or updo. Really want to try this. My hair is long and freshly washed will only hold a braid for long. I usually have to redo half way through the day!! I also have lots of wispy flyaways to tame!!!
Montagne Jeunesse Passion Peel off mask recieved a 5ml sample size full size is 10ml.
This pomegranate and passion flower face mask cleanses and purify the skin. Am really interested to give this a try. Have never used a peel of mask before!!!
Emergin C Hyper Vitalizer Cream and Vitamin C+ Retinol Mask both 3ml samples full size is 50ml.
I have tried other products from this brand before and have really enjoyed so cannot wait for some pamper time to give these a go. The cream has both anti oxidant and anti inflammatory benifits to firm, plump and even out skins texture. While the mask which is clay based removes dead skin cells and brightens skin!!!
Brazillian Butterfly Assortment recieved seven 5ml sample sachets full size of the products are 200ml.
These are an assortment of body wash, lotions and scrubs from the same company. Said to be good for those of us who wax and those that don't!! Includes tea tree oils, lavender, aloe and witch hazel all which have amazing soothing, anti inflammatory properties for the skin as well as great scents. Interested to try, impressed that I have received a generous amount of samples and this company is Australian!!!!
Natio Nail Colour full size in the shade Valentine
This is the Bonus product for this box and I was so excited to see this included. I really like the Natio brand and they are another great Aussie company. I cannot wait to give this vibrant red polish a go!!!
An amazing box this month and I cannot wait to really dive in!! I am really impressed by BellaBox again this month so many great goodies and will certainly be giving everything a try!!!
Ever.
Hey Readers, Hope this post finds you well!!! Another month has gone by and a new LHI box has arrived at my door. Last months box was pretty full though so my review of all the products is below.
The Natural Source Camoflage Colour Lipgloss.
I have to say this company produces some really interesting cosmetics and I am glad to see that going all natural doesn't mean a scrimp on quality or a high price tag. The gloss I received is in the shade Wild Orange and while it was orange in the tube it didn't transfer to the lips. It was super glossy and shimmery so really great for a night out it was however a little bit sticky!! Overall though a great inclusion and would love to other things from this company.
Seacret Buffing Block
I have used this block a couple of times and I have to say that while skeptical at first using all three sides in combination it really does give nails a nice finish. The blue side is just the right grit for smoothing coarse edges as well as fixing a nail post chip. With the other two sides really helping to leave nails smooth and shiny. While I have enjoyed using it I would not pay the $30 price tag!!!!
Paula's Choice Clear Exfoliating Solution
I was hesitant at first given that for me this does contain a high percentage of salicylic acid. But I was getting tired of putting concealar onto a red mark on my cheek that was left by a pimple and hasn't seem to fade away. Its nearly gone and I have to say that is probably due to my just in case measure of not using it everyday. I am amazed it is so quick to apply and doesnt feel like you've put anything on, a few drops on a cotton round applied to the area. It has no scent and dries really quick. I am now thinking I will try on other areas!!
Nude By Nature Pawpaw Ointment
OK so in regards to this product I must address a statement I made in my original post. It was pointed out by a reader who also left a comment to say that the Lucas Pawpaw ointment that I have used prior to this Nude By Nature product. Is not 100% papaya but ~4% and that it is also in a pharmaceutical grade petroleum jelly base which isn't stated on the tubes or tubs. I have done research myself and I do stand corrected that my 100% statement is not the case, I also agree that it is sneaky that they do not list all the ingredients on the tube, however if you look at the Lucas Pawpaw site they are open about all the ingredients in there products. Overall I have to say that I have not really enjoyed this nude by nature product. The smell of the ointment I have found really over powering. I also usually use this type of ointment on small dry patches on my hands that often present in these cooler months they have neither been soothed or cleared. Its actually really disappointing as I do really like the nude by nature brand and they are really affordable products.
Tgi Elasticate and Recharge Shampoo and Conditioner.
I really enjoyed giving these two samples a try but my hair is really long at the moment so I really only got one wash out of each sachet. It makes it really hard to judge whether my hair is really that much stronger or that much shinier!!! Both shampoo washed well and particularly the elasticate one smelt really yummy!! The conditioners also definitely put moisture back into my hair but given I only got one try its really hard to judge whether they are super great or not!!!!
OK so onto June's Lust Have It box. This month LHI has decided to go with a celebration of the release of the new movie The Great Gatsby and have included a few interesting products.
Rachel K Mineral Colour Control CC Cream received four sachets full size is 50ml.
This is one product this month I am interested to try. This is a new and improved version of the most talked about Korean BB creams. CC stands for colour control and not only says it will improve complexion, texture and balance skin tone but also includes anti wrinkle properties, SPF, moisturiser and is collagen enriched. I have never used a cream like this before so am interested to see the results. And if they live up to the hype!!!!
Bastiste Dry Shampoo in the scent Cherry received a 30ml size, full size is 200ml.
Iv'e said this before that dry shampoo is not for me so I will be re gifting this one to someone that does enjoy these types of products.
Pure Fiji Hydrating Body Lotion recieved a sample size, full size is 354ml.
This is another inclusion I'm not to excited about this month. I am not a fan of coconut scented body lotions. This has actually already been re gifted to a good home!!!
Real Purity Natural Lipstick in the shade Romantic Red received a sample size.
A red lip!!! That was my first thought when I read the card after opening this box. And I am excited!!! Although I am not sure if the colour or the red lip look suits me I am really looking forward to giving this a try can't wait!!
Doctor Babor Derma Cellular Collagen Booster Cream sample size only full size 50ml.
I think the price of a full size of this one is the most expensive I have ever received in a LHI box before. At $249.00 for a full 50ml size this hopefully can live up to the expectation of being an alternative to facial injections!!!
So overall some interesting products for the month of June, I am interested to see how they go!! Comment below if you got the same box or something different or how you are finding any of the products LHI have sent!!!
Have a happy day!!!
Ever.
Hey Readers,
Hope this post finds you well!!! I know it has been a number of months since my last mascara madness post but I have been busy trying some the newest mascaras to be released this year. I also have been wanting to change the way I review these mascaras to give you a clearer view of not only whether they are a worthwhile buy but also if they are living up to the expectations given to us by the companies advertising. Two out of the three mascaras I am reviewing today I bought based on the advertising they had been accompanied by on release. Which got me thinking... Generally I buy a mascara based on price point and recommendations as usually the advertising does tend to exaggerate just a little. Some times they get it right and sometimes we are left dissapointed. So from now on with these posts I will try and compare the pitch to the reality!!!
Covergirl Clump Crusher by Lashblast Black Brown
The Pitch: They claim that their new innovative curved brush would not only leave your lashes super volumised by 200% but also beautifully separated with ZERO clumps!!! Covergirl not only used the singer P!nk to promote this one but also packaged it in a fluorescent green tube which is hard to miss!!!
The Reality: 200% volume hmm not really my lashes were volumised but at the end of the day they still looked pretty natural. As for the no clumps this is were this mascara really shines even if you keep layering no clumps at all. It really is amazing and the brush really does separate the lashes nicely. As an added bonus it does come off without to much effort at the end of the day!!! I did pick this up for $10 when it was first released with RRP now $17.95 while I would pay that it still is a little steep for a mascara so I do recommend waiting for a good special!! I did pick this one up in the black brown shade which leaves lashes looking natural but still defined. I feel it is great for work days as well as weekends!!!
Rimmel London Scandal Eyes Flex Mascara 001Black
The Pitch: A big volume mascara that with lycra technology leaves lashes looking full and voluptuous while remaining soft, not stiff or brittle and its max density brush covers all lashes in one effortless coat.
The Reality: what you read is what you get this mascara. It has the biggest brush I've seen in a while which does take a little to get used too. So it really does grab and coat every lash in one swipe and you really only need the one coat. Its size though does make it tricky to get the lower lashes but it does give volume and does not leave lashes stiff or brittle amazingly they are soft and bouncy and still volumised at the end of the day. The only negatives I have for this mascara is that the brush does come out of the tube with a blob of product at the tip so it does require wiping before use it also does take a little more effort to get off at the end of the day. Again price point is around the $16.95 mark so once again look out for those good specials!! This one got my attention simply by the inclusion of lycra it is an intriguing inclusion to a mascara formulation not one seen before but does work and it is nice not to have lashes feel stiff, crunchy or dry at the end of the day.
Maybelline New York One by One Volum' Express Blackest Black
The Pitch: Bold volume without the bulk. A patented lash catcher brush which has three bristles per lash to catch, coat and de clump. Leaving lashes bigger and bolder.
The Reality: This mascara is an oldie but a goodie and once again does exactly what its advertising says. Lashes are volumised, seperated and lengthed without clumps, the smaller brush does make it easy to get the bottom lashes as well. I have to say that this one is my most favored out of the three. Its such an easy mascara to swipe on and go!!! and at the end of the day comes off quite easily. No effort really required!! Price point wise it is a little more expensive at $19.25 so definitely wait for a good special with this one.
Overall three great mascaras all of which I would recommend you try. While each are different they all still give great lash looks which last all day long.
I would also like to thank the following three websites for there help with each mascaras advertising pitch
http://www.covergirl.com/beauty-products/eye-makeup/mascara/clump-crusher-mascara
http://au.rimmellondon.com/products/eyes/volume-flash-scandaleyes-lycra%C2%AE-flex-mascara
http://www.maybelline.com.au/products/109/eyes/mascara/volum-express-one-by-one-washable-mascara/blackest-black/000?shadeId=575
And the Priceline website which I have used as a guide to the RRP's for all three mascaras.
http://www.priceline.com.au/cosmetics/eyes/mascara/
So while this ends another mascara madness I hope it helps with your future mascara buys. I also have lined up another three of the latest mascaras to try and will do another post soon!!!
Happy Shopping
Ever.
Oh wow cannot believe another month has gone. Its a little disappointing given May for me has been really enjoyable. This month hasn't seem to go a quickly and I've really enjoyed feeling that the month hasn't gone past in the blink of an eye. This month I have also been enjoying some new products as well as shopping my stash for old favs!!! I also have found a few items that I think will favorites for a while!!!
John Plunkett Essentials Anti ageing Creme Cleanser and Makeup Remover.
I received this as a sample in a Bella Box and have enjoyed it ever since. Its a cream cleanser that can be used both wet and dry. I use this primarily as makeup remover rubbing straight onto dry skin and taking off with damped makeup remover rounds it not only takes off all my make up but mascara and gel eyeliner as well it leaves my skin soft smooth and make up free. I am definitely going to purchase a full size and will be using this for a while.
Nivea Lip Butter Vanilla and Macadamia
I bought this from priceline after hearing some good reviews. I knew I would want something for winter and thought I would pick it up on special before I needed it. I have now finally opened it as the weather is getting cooler and my lips drier. Firstly I am astounded by how much product you get 19ml for less than $5 and secondly how mosituring this is it lasts pretty much all day. Iv'e mainly used it at night before bed and I wake up with soft moisturised lips that last great to be able to put colour over the top and not have to put on a balm first.
Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in the colour Honey
OK I have to admit this is a product after seeing so many you tubers rave!! I really have never been a lipstick wearer but after swatching this, I thought it would be a good colour to start with. I also had heard that the formula of these products was worth their price tag luckily for me though Priceline had their 40% off for two days and I thought I'd pick it up while the sale was on!!! Its a wearable neutral pink that goes on easily and colour is true to the packaging. It is buildable and it does stain which I found is good as I often don't reapply I just pop a balm over the top for a bit of extra moisture and gloss all day long. It also only has a light peppermint smell and no tingle usually associated with the peppermint inclusion.
Models Prefer Smooth Gel Liner Mystique Cosmic Purple and Black Magic
I cannot remember why I picked these up but I am so glad I did as they are amazing!! Initially I was intrigued by the fact that they said they were a gel liner but in a retractable pen. Cosmic Purple is a beautiful almost black purple with subtle purple glitter. It is a great alternative to a stock standard black and pairs well with just a sweep of neutral gold on the lid to make it pop. Black Magic is a black with a silver glitter that again is really subtle. They really are amazing. So smooth and creamy, as well as lasting as long as a gel liner able to be applied on the go and no need for a brush!!!
Essence Stay all day 16 hour Long Lasting Make Up
I haven't been particularly happy with any of my foundations recently. I have had everything from the colour going slightly orange, foundation sliding off and going patchy or I just end up so shiny I'm touching up multiple times during the day. This foundation has changed all of that it definetly stays all day I can put it on at 7am and still be looking flawless at 8pm. No touch ups, no orange, no sliding or turning patchy. It also stays matte!!!! With my oily combination skin this is the first foundation that has stayed put and doesn't require powder over the top. It is a light to medium coverage but is buildable and does blend well. I also love the pump at the top really gives you control of how much product you want to dispense great for those times you only need just a half pump more!!! Putting this one on the list of all time favourites!!!
MUA Blush Perfection Cream Blusher in the shade Dolly and Blossom
I bought both of these in my recent MUA order wanting some new blushes for autumn and winter. While I usually prefer a powder blush, I don't own that many cream blushes and was wanting to experiment more with different application techniques, as well as layering with other blushes. Dolly is a coral tone, while blossom has a pink tone. They both are easily blended onto the cheeks and give the cheeks a really beautiful glow. Primarily I have used my fingers to apply colour initially then blend out with my real techniques contour brush, but colour intensity is as good applied and blended out using a stippling brush. The best bit is that they do last all day and they are matte so you can choose if you want extra sparkle or not!!!!
Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure Nail Polish in the shade 670 Midnight in NY
I received this in the recent Priceline beauty bag. I'm not usually into black polishes but this isn't the usual gloss black. This black based is flecked with both gold and purple shimmer its subtle but classy. The wider brush makes light work or application and lasts with not chipping for at least 4 days bonus!!!
Revlon Glitter Nail polish in 761
Channelling the beautiful sally hansen polish, I bought this black based purple glitter polish. Wanting to both to compliment and add an accent nail to my exciting mani. Being a black base and not a clear this polish can stand alone but using it over the top of my sally hansen really has added something special. I've worn the combination most of the month.
So that is all my May favorites. While I'm sad to see May go I have enjoyed the month and am excited to see what June and the winter brings!!! Try to stay warm and I'll talk to you soon.
Ever.
