30 September 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: RIMMEL LONDON LASTING FINISH LIPSTICK BY KATE - 15TH ANNIVERARY EDITION

Can you believe it, it has been 15 years since Kate Moss started as the muse of Rimmel London. How time flies. And to celebrate, Rimmel and Kate Moss have brought out a special anniversary collection of Lasting Finish Lipstick by Kate. The Lasting Finish Lipsticks were initially brought out to celebrate Kate's 10th anniversary, so it makes sense that to build on these for the new 15th anniversary lipsticks.


L-R: Rock N Roll, My Nude, Boho Nude, Idol Red, Muse Red, Retro Red

The range includes three nude shades and three red shades, with each shade inspired by a classic Kate Look.

  • Rock N Roll - a peachy-pink tinted neutral shade
  • My Nude - a brownish-beige nude shade
  • Boho Nude - a slightly darker nude brownish-beige shade
  • Idol Red - a bright and more orangy-red shade
  • Muse Red - this is a rich and bold crimson red
  • Retro Red - a dark rich berry shade

All of the shades are infused with light-reflecting black diamonds to give them a nice sheen, and they feel soft and moisturising on the lips, all while providing an intense and solid colour in just one swipe.

The lipsticks claims to be long lasting, up to 8 hours on the lip, while still feeling smooth, creamy and comfortable on the lips.

Many long-lasting lipsticks quickly feel very drying on the lips, but I have to agree that is not the case with these lipsticks. And while they are certainly long-lasting, I can't quite make them last 8 hours.

It is not a secret that I am not overly fond of too pale nude lips, but preferring bolder lips, and certainly, the bolder shades have a longer wear than the paler nude counterparts - and so I can probably get 4-5 hours wear from the red, though they do transfer onto cups and glasses, so if you drink, they don't wear quite as long. And when they do fade, these darker shades still leave behind a nice stain on the lips.


L-R: Rock N Roll, My Nude, Boho Nude, Idol Red, Muse Red, Retro Red


The range of shades in this collection is very lovely, but it is a little either-or - where there pale nude shades or alternatively bold brights. I especially love the three red shades, and as for the nudes, the Rock N Roll Nude is with the pale peachy-pink shade my favourite nude.

To make these lipsticks even more unique, they come in a special edition packaging of metallic rose-gold colour, said to be Kate's favourite colour, and this really does make them look absolutely stunning, and also more luxurious than their drug-store price tag. Definitely worth checking out!


Rimmel London Lasting Finish Lipstick by Kate - RRP: 13.95ea

Available from Priceline, Chemist Warehouse, Target, Kmart, Big W, 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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29 September 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: ARBONNE IT'S ALL IN TH EYES EYE SHADOWS AND IT'S A LONG STORY MASCARA

Today I'd like to put focus on the Arbonne It's all in the Eyes Eye Shadows and the It's a Long Story Mascara.

 
 
 
The Arbonne It’s All in the Eyes Eye Shadows, which is a brand new range of mineral and botanically infused eye shadows. The collection contains 24 richly pigmented shades that include shimmer, satin and matte finishes for colour that lasts throughout the day. These eyeshadows contain among others hibiscus extract to help promote the appearance of supple and radiant-looking skin, as well as eyebright extract to help deliver moisturising benefits to soothe the eye area exposed to environmental dryness. 




These shadows are beautifully soft to work with, are very pigmented, and blend really easy, for a result that stays put all day long without fallout or settling into fine lines around the eye. I love that can purchase the eye shadows individually, but also have the option of pre-paired duos, or you can simply make up your own combination in a magnetic quad case. As the quad I was give was already made up for me, I am actually unsure of the actual shade names, but they are shades I would have picked myself, matte dark aubergine, matte dark chocolate, satin apricot and a shimmery nude, all of which work beautifully both on their own for a simple look or in any combination for a more dramatic smoky eye. And I do love that you can put together an eyeshadow palette exactly how you like it, so you don't end up shades that you don't like or don't use.




The It's a Long Story Mascara has been made with polypeptides, bamboo extract and pro-vitamins to pamper, condition and nurture the lashes, promising to promote the appearance of longer-looking lashes. I don't actually wear mascara every day at the moment, so it is therefore difficult to say if the mascara has made any difference to the look of my lashes, but regardless I really like this mascara. It easily defines and separates the lashes without clumping them together, and just one coat makes them look quite long and glossy, while a few additional coats easily builds up both length and volume. I also love that the mascara is waterproof and doesn't irritate my sensitive eyes.


Arbonne It’s All in the Eyes Eye Shadow (available in 24 shades) individual shades - RRP: $25
Arbonne It’s All in the Eyes Eye Shadow Refillable Quad Palette - RRP: $13
Arbonne It’s A Long Story Mascara - RRP $49 / 12g

Available from Arbonne 

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

 

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BRAND FOCUS: EVODIA

Today I'd like to talk about a band called Evodia. Evodia products are Australian owned and made from floral, fruit and bush extracts, vitamins and essential oils sourced from the Australian environment.




The Evodia products are also enriched with ingredients like lemon myrtle, Kakadu plum, Tasmanian lavender, jasmine, mango, lime and coconut to name a few. As well as using naturally derived ingredients, the products are also made using purified water, and with no marsh chemicals or preservatives in sight. The brand has been around for over 25 years, and prides themselves in making affordable, yet luxurious products at the highest quality, with the range including bath, body, fragrance and home lifestyle products. Today I'd like to put focus on a selection of the Evodia products..


But first, let me just run you through all the fragrance collections in the Evodia range; 
  • Whitsunday Coconut & Lime
  • Byron Bay Frangipani
  • Adelaide Hills Jasmine
  • Tasmanian Lavender
  • Daintree Mango & Pink Grapefruit
  • Barossa Grapefruit & Tuberose
  • Australian Bush Lemon Myrtle
 
As a lover of all citrus products, the ranges that immediately caught my eyes, was the Barossa Grapefruit & Tuberose range and the Australian Bush Lemon Myrtle.
  
The Barossa Grapefruit an Tuberose range has the following ingredients;  
  • Top Notes: Pepper, Grapefruit, Lemon, Passionfruit 
  • Middle Notes: Water Lily, Ylang Ylang, Tuberose
  • Base Notes: Musk, Cedarwood, Sandalwood, Amber
  
 
 
 
The Barossa Grapefruit & Tuberose Nourishing Soap Bar also contains Gippsland Goats Milk & Organic Shea Butter, and comes wrapped in tissue paper inside a beautiful oval shaped tin box with a pinky-red lid. It smells absolutely divine, but I do have to admit to not being a huge fan of soap bars as I do find that they quickly become quite messy - so for now I've left it out on display, where it looks absolutely stunning in my powder room!
  
Next to it, I've got the Barossa Grapefruit & Tuberose Hand Cream, which is also enriched with Sweet Almond Oil, Jojoba and Avocado Oils as well as Cocoa Butter. This thick and rich hand cream is absolutely divine, and you can instantly feel its nourishing properties as it absorbs into the skin, leaving your hands feeling so silky and smooth, without any greasiness. And it has that same refreshingly divine Grapefruit and Tuberose scent that lingers on the skin for a long time afterwards, which I really love, although it does mean that I can't stop smelling my hands.
 
Then there's the Barossa Grapefruit & Tuberose Hand & Body Lotion, which comes in a very handy pump bottle, that makes it so easy to use in the bathroom. It is enriched with cocoa butter, grape seed oil and sweet almond oil, and yet it bears the same beautiful beautiful lasting scent. The consistency of the Hand & Body Lotion is somewhat thinner than the Hand Cream, but it still feels very moisturising on the skin, and I do not feel the need to reapply during the day.
  
Next there's the Australian Bush Lemon Myrtle Hand & Body Wash. This range has;
 
  • Top Notes: Lemon, Orange, Lime 
  • Middle Notes: Geranium
  • Base Notes: Fresh Green Watermelon
 
And this range is so fresh, clean and zesty, and absolutely lovely, and hence the Hand & Body Wash from this range is the perfect body wash to use in the morning for the ultimate kick-start. The wash contains soothing aloe vera and gently cleanses the skin, without drying it out or irritating it, as it also protects the skin's natural PH balance. I also love the fact that this gorgeous scent spreads through my bathroom after my shower, and that I can just detect the beautiful scent on my skin, when I've dried.  
 
 
 
  
 
The Body Mist from the Australian Bush Lemon Myrtle Range is body mist that contains fine fragrance making it perfect to use as a perfume on a warm summers day as it is so energising and refreshing. As can be expected, it doesn't last all day on the skin, but it comes in a huge 200ml bottle, so you got enough to reapply during the day as you want.
 
Finally, there's the Fragrance Roll-On from the Byron Bay Frangipani range. I absolutely love frangipanis, but sadly, after a couple of attempts, I've come to realise that I just cannot get a tree to grow in chilly Melbourne. This range contains;  
  • Top Notes: Lemon, Ylang Ylang 
  • Middle Notes: Jasmine, Frangipani 
  • Base Notes: Blackcurrant, Cinnamon
 
Like the rest of the ranges, this little Roll-On Fragrance has a beautiful floral frangipani scent. The cute Roll-On is the perfect perfume to pop into the handbag so you can reapply during the day, not that it is really needed as it actually, surprisingly, lasts quite well throughout the day. I think it is possibly just the frangipani scent, but it is actually quite strong smelling, so I've found that you only need to apply a tiny bit, otherwise I found it to be too overwhelming, but the fact that it is so concentrated is only a positive, so the small bottle will last you longer.
 
 
Overall I am really impressed with these products from Evodia. They feel so lovely to use and I love that the beautiful scents continue to linger on my skin and in my house after I've used them. The products also look beautiful in their white bottles and tunes with varying colours and floral designs depending on the ingredients range, so they also look fabulous on display in the bathroom and by the powder room sink, and are the perfect present too.
 
Personally I'm particularly loving the Hand & Body Wash, the Hand & Body Lotion and the Hand Cream, and I am very keen to get my hands on a Australian Bush Lemon Myrtle Hand & Body Lotion to pair with my Hand &Body Wash, as well as a Barossa Grapefruit & Tuberose Hand & Body Wash, so I can use the matching sets together without mixing different scents.
 
So all in all these products from Evodia really are lovely, and with so many different scents, there really also is something for every taste and preference, so definitely worth checking them out
 
 
Evodia Roll On Fragrance - RRP: $12.95 / 15ml 
Evodia Body Mist - RRP: $200ml / 25.95 
Evodia Soap Bar - RRP: $13.95 / 180g 
Evodia Hand & Body Wash - RRP: $18.95 / 400ml
Evodia Hand & Body Lotion - RRP: $18.95 / 400ml 
Evodia Hand Cream - RRP: $17.95 / 100ml
 
 
Available from Myer stores, selected pharmacies, gift and homeware stores and from Evodia online.
 
 
* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

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28 September 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: PAULA'S CHOICE RESIST 10% NIACINAMIDE BOOSTER

Today I'm going to talk about the Resist 10% Niacinamide Booster from Paula's Choice. This formula is a bit of multi-tasker as it claims to work on all skin types to visibly refine the look of pores, improve overall skin texture, and make the skin look smoother and brighter. 

 



Ninacinamide is essentially vitamin B3, which through research has proven to assist in improving circulation within the skin, and reduce acne scarring and pigmentation issues and uneven skin tone, while also decreasing the appearance of enlarged pores. In addition it also helps reduce lines and wrinkles, improve the skin's firmness and barrier function, improve signs of environmental damage, as well as soothing and calming the sin and supercharging it with antioxidants and skin-repairing ingredients. and give the skin

The Booster is to be used twice a day, after cleansing, by massaging in a few drops prior to serum and moisturiser, although it can also be mixed with a serum or moisturiser.

The actual booster is clear and has next to no scent and it is very lightweight, actually so light it almost is like water, and therefore absorbs immediately into the skin without any greasiness or stickiness, and it does leave the skin feeling soft. And while it, again, is suitable for all skin types, including very sensitive ones as it is so gentle too, it is particularly suited to those with oily or blemish-prone skin types by helping clear the skin and reduce the look of enlarge pores.

And after using if for a few weeks, morning and night, I can definitely see that it has helped significantly reduce the red and dark marks left after recent breakouts, as well as the appearance of large pores, in particularly on my nose, cheeks and chin has improved too. My skin consequently looks clearer and brighter, although I am yet to see any major difference in the appearance of my increasing pigmentation or a reduction of fine lines or wrinkles for that matter.

The Booster comes stylish looking silver bottle with a dropper so you can easily dispense the few drops needed. At $67 for 20ml it is a little pricey, but as you only need a few drops, the bottle will last you a long time And in spite of the fact that I am yet to see major improvements to pigmentation and wrinkles, I am loving that it has made such an impact on my pores and marks from past acne, so for that it is all worth it, and besides I love the fact that it can easily be incorporated into my existing skincare routine prior to my usual serums and moisturisers. 


Paula's Choice Resist 10% Ninacinamide Booster - RRP: $67 / 20ml
Available from Paula's Choice

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

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27 September 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: CLINIQUE TURNAROUND REVITALISING INSTANT FACIAL, TURNAROUND REVITALISING LOTION AND TURNAROUND OVERNIGHT REVITALISING MOISTURISER

Clinique has long been one of my favourite brands, and it was also one of the first 'luxe' product that I started using when I was a teenager. One of the ranges that I have always been in love with, is the Turnaround products, which has been developed to give energise and refresh the skin and give it a healthy glow. So I was very excite when new products were added to the range, so today I’m going to be talking about the Revitalising Instant Facial, the Turnaround Revitalising Lotion and the Overnight Revitalising Moisturiser.



Starting with the Clinique Turnaround Revitalising Instant Facial, this is a pealescent cream is the ultimate quick-fix to instantly give the skin radiance. It can be left on the skin, or used to exfoliate - and personally I like to leave a thin layer on my skin for a few minutes, while I i.e. brush my teeth, before massaging it with damp fingers to further exfoliate the skin. It is extremely gentle, so the first time I used it, I thought it surely couldn't be that effective, but how wrong I was. It leaves the skin incredibly silky soft and smooth, and without feeling dry or tight, and it has a lovely radiant glow. It contains tiny micro glitter particles that helps with making the skin even more radiant, but just make sure that you do rinse your face thoroughly after use or you will end up looking a bit 'glittery'.

Then there's the Clinique Turnaround Revitalising Lotion, which is a soothing, alcohol-free lotion, that is used on skin after cleansing, twice a day before serum and moisturiser. The lotion is thinner than your typical serum, but slightly thicker than a toner, and all you need is a few drops padded into your skin - and because you only need to use so little, the large bottle will seriously last you forever. It infuses the skin with energy and essential hydration, and immediately leaves the skin feeling soft and supple and with a lovely radiance. In spite of this lotion being oil free, I am actually surprised at how hydrating it is on the skin, as my skin looks more supple and softer and not to mention more glowing and fresher since I've have added this to my skincare routine. During periods where my combination skin becomes even oilier, I have also found that I can get away with using this as my daytime moisturiser.

Finally, the Clinique Turnaround Overnight Revitalising Moisturiser, is a night cream that works while you sleep to reveal more luminous skin. The moisturiser helps gently exfoliate and buff away dead skin cells and excess sebum, as well as clear the dulling effect of sun damage and general age-related skin concerns. It is very hydrating on the skin, but without feeling heavy or making my combination skin feel congested, something I've often experienced with night creams - but rather, this Overnight Moisturiser helps keep my skin clearer and free from blemishes, and those breakouts that I do get, seem to clear up faster, as well as I feel that it help prevent those dark marks post blemishes. With continued use, it simply makes my skin look so much better, as my complexion seems to be more even, and I've come to enjoy waking up to a skin that is feeling silky smooth and soft and glowing. 


Overall, these Turnaround products from Clinique have really impressed me - I love having the Instant Facial at hand when my skin needs an instant pick-me-up, and the Revitalising Lotion is a great addition to my existing skincare regime - and the Overnight Moisturiser has seriously made such a significant difference to my skin, making it look so refreshed and glowing every morning, even when I've yet again had a bad night sleep thanks to our two little toddlers. And if you ask me, the products are all very reasonable priced too.

There's also a serum, treatment oil and a day time moisturiser available in the range, all of which I'm very keen to get my hands on too!


Turnaround Revitalising Instant Facial - RRP: $68 / 75ml
Turnaround Revitalising Lotion - RRP: $40 / 200ml
Turnaround Overnight Revitalising Moisturiser - RRP: $60 / 50ml



Available from Clinique Online, and Sephora

* Some products may have been kindly provided for editorial consideration, and have been reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy, and reviews are 100% honest and based on personal opinion and experience. Note that The Beauty & Lifestyle Hunter is not a professional or expert, so please do not substitute these opinions as professional advice. Also note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means you pay no extra, but I get a small commission fee if you click through and buy something. And if so, thank you much for your supporting the running costs of my blog. xx


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26 September 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: COMVITA MEDIHONEY

Today I like to talk a little about the Comvita Medihoney® range of products.

 
 
Comvita’s Medihoney® product range contain a medical-grade antibacterial and healing Manuka honey, along with other ingredients to soothe, relieve and moisturise the skin. The Manuka honey has been scientifically researched and clinically proven to support wound healing and reduce the risk of infection, and all the products are free from soap, parabens, SLS and synthetic fragrances and colours. In addition, the pH balanced products are also dermatologically tested for sensitive, dry and eczema prone skin, and are suitable even for babies. 
 
I don't really suffer with eczema - well not anymore… I never have before, but suddenly did get a bad bout of skin irritations in the last few weeks of my last pregnancy, and while this has cleared up now, admittedly my skin gotten more sensitive since. However, both my husband and my two little boys all suffer with very sensitive skin. 
 
 
Starting with the Medihoney® Antibacterial Wound Gel™, which is a 3-in-1 product that;  
  • Cleans: Naturally cleans the wound of bacteria, dead tissue, dirt and debris by drawing it into the dressing
  • Protects: Reduces the risk of infection
  • Heals: Creates a moist, low pH environment that promotes wound healing
 
This gel has been made using 80% antibacterial honey and 20% natural plant wax and oils to provide gel that is easy to apply. It works by creating a moist, low pH environment that promotes new tissue formation and wound healing. This Antibacterial Wound Gel is suitable for burns, cuts and grazes and surgical wounds, as well as it can be used on pressure, venous, and leg and foot ulcers.
 
Recently our little boy was out in the garden helping Daddy, when he fell and graced and cut his cheek on a dirty , and I happy applying this to his cheek knowing that it is gentle and also suitable for his young skin, and that it helped not only naturally clean the would of dirt and bacteria and hence reduce the risk of infection, but that it also helped encourage the would to heel faster with a reduced risk of scarring. And within days the would was already starting to heal, and a week later, only a small mark left on his cheek - so overall this s fantastic having at hand, especially when you've got little clumsy kids, bound to fall and graze their knees and hands.
  
Then there's the Medihoney® Eczema Cream, which is a rich emollient natural solution for those who are prone to eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis or dry skin. The slightly thick cream offers intense moisture to help soothe and replenish irritated, dry, rough and itchy skin, while it helps the skin maintain its moisture and helps support the natural barrier properties of the skin.
 
This cream is very gentle and contains no added colour or fragrance, (and hence has next to no scent), as well as it has no added lanolin, parabens and it doesn’t contain mineral oils either. And unlike many other creams and ointments for eczema, this cream does not have any added steroids either, which means that it is suitable for long-term use, including sensitive areas of the body, such as the face, as well as it even be used on children due to its natural and gentle formula. My husband often complains about itchy and irritated skin, especially when he has been out gardening, or has touched something particularly dirty, and he really liked how this cream not only added some much needed moisture back into the skin, but also instantly offered soothing relief to his irritated skin.
 
Finally, the Medihoney® Natural Skintensive™ is an intensely cream that contains Medihoney® as well as rich plant butters to restore and improve skin condition and to retain moisture. It adds intense moisture to dry and itchy skin, so it is also the perfect winter companion where I've loved using it on my hands which are always drier during the colder months, and it quickly helps restore moisture and soothe any itchiness, although it is a little greasy and takes a while to absorb into the skin, which is why I've been using it on my hands before going to bed. Again, this cream is very gentle and also suitable for both adults and children including those with sensitive or eczema prone skin as it is also free from parabens, SLS, fragrance and petrolatum, as well as it is dermatologically tested.
 
Overall I have really enjoyed putting these products from Medihoney® to the test, and have particularly loved having the Antibacterial Would Gel in the house, and would now hate to be without it should emergency strike.
 
 
Medihoney® Antibacterial Wound Gel™ - RRP: $29.95 / 50g 
Medihoney® Eczema Cream - RRP: $19.95 / 50g 
Medihoney® Natural Skintensive™ Cream - RRP: $16.95 / 95g
 
Available from Comvita Online and select pharmacies and health stores


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


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25 September 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: DREAMBABY LADY BUG NIGHT LIGHT

Today I'm going to show you the cutest lady bug. But this adorable lady bug from Dreambaby is no ordinary lady bug, it is actually a night light..
 




Our big boy, who is just over 3 years old has never been afraid of the dark - but then suddenly, I think, as he is getting older, he is now sometimes a little a little concerned about the darkness and wants us to confirm that "there's nothing there..?". This also coincided with us moving house, with his bedroom further away from ours, and as we have a two story house, he is, and he knows that he is alone upstairs when we've put him to bed. But still he is a good boy, and generally it is not an issue. But one thing that has really helped put his mind at ease and gives him comfort and security as he drifts off to sleep is this cute Lady Bug.

It is very cleverly designed with its one-touch button that turns it on, giving it a very soft and gentle light that is not too harsh for sleeping. I also like is that it is that it is so simple and easy to use and that the LED bulb lasts for hours and hours, in fact, Dreambaby claims for thousands of hours, which is pretty awesome.

But what I also love is that the lamp turns itself off automatically after 30minutes, so you don’t have to worry about having a lamp on all night long adding up on your electricity bill.

But research also shows that sleeping in a brightly lid room is not good for you as it reduces the quality of sleep, so with this ladybird, you no longer need to have this concern for your little one. For us this lady bug has been an absolute lifesaver, well worth the cost - and during the day when it is not in use, it looks very adorable and decorative in his room too. 

 

Dreambaby Ladybug Night Light - RRP: $34.95

Available from leading baby stores 
Visit
Dreambaby Online or Facebook, or call (02) 9386 4000 for more information

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


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23 September 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: THANKYOU BABY SKINCARE

Today I'm going to talk about some baby skincare products from Thankyou. If you're not familiar with the brand Thankyou, they're a very unique social enterprise, as they believe they can help end global poverty in this lifetime, and hence they give 100% of their profits from their products to helping people in need. And that's amazing, is that each Thankyou product comes with a unique tracker ID number, which you can enter online or via a special Thankyou app, so that you can see exactly where the profits from the product you’ve purchased are going! I think we've all heard stories of some aid organisations where the majority of the funds goes towards anything but the cause they're intending to help, so this is brilliant if you ask me.


 

But how do the Thankyou products stack up… here I put some of the baby skincare products to the test, including the Baby Bath Milk, Mums & Bubs Massage Oil and the Baby Lotion..

Let's begin with the Thankyou Baby Bath Milk, which is a milky bath made with goat's milk and gentle plant oils including sunflower oil, chamomile oil, avocado oil and oat extracts. It is so gentle and is perfect for newborns and those little kids with super sensitive skin -so perfect for my two blonde and very fair-skinned boys, who both seem to have sensitive skin. The Bath Milk has a gentle herbal scent, and is to be added to the bath water, to not only gently cleanse their skin as it is PH balanced, but also make it silky soft and smooth. I have long been using bath oils in my little boy's bath, but this is without a doubt a new favourite.

The Thankyou Mums & Bubs Massage Oil is a massage oil that contains natural restoring ingredients including avocado, rosehip and coconut oils, as well as olive oil and calendula flower extract - and as you may notice, it does not contain mineral oils!

It is a light non-greasy oil that is great to massaging into your baby's sensitive skin to help him or her relax - and I wish I'd known about this one earlier while I was pregnant, as it is also intended as a massage oil for pregnant itchy and stretching tummies. It is very concentrated so you only need to use a tiny bit, and it has a lovely gentle scent from the natural ingredients which has been used as fragrance.

Finally, there's the Thankyou Gentle & Soothing Baby Lotion which is a light moisturiser containing among others rosehip, avocado & coconut oils, as well as cocoa seed butter, shea butter, mixed with oat, chamomile and kakadu plum extracts. This baby lotion quickly absorbs into the skin immediately and leaves it very soft and smooth, and without any greasiness or stickiness, and I actually have to admit to having used on myself too, as after using it on my boys I loved the feel of massaging in any leftover cream on my hands. Like the other products it has a lovely gentle scent from the natural ingredients that you can only love.

Also worth mentioning is that these products from Thankyou are all free from chemical nasties including SLS, SLES, EDTA and parabens, they do not contain any synthetic fragrances or colours, palm oils or harsh detergents, and they are PH balanced and suitable for even the most sensitive skin and they have all been dermatologically tested.

The products come in old style dark brown apocathery plastic bottles with the stunning simplistic black and white Thankyou labels, which also makes these products look fantastic in the bathroom.

So all in all I have really enjoyed using these baby products on my little boys, they are soft and gentle, and leave my boys delicate skin clean and feeling soft and moisturised, and with a delicate natural scent. They are exceptionally well priced, in fact I was surprised at their low price, so I will definitely be purchasing these again, as well as looking into more products from the large Thankyou product range.

And I love knowing that while I care for my boys skin, purchasing these particular products from Thankyou will help support a Child and Maternal Health Program in Khotang in Nepal.


Thankyou Milk & Gentle Baby Bath Milk - RRP: $9.99 / 300ml
Thankyou Mums &Bubs Massage Oil - RRP: $9.99 / 125ml
Thankyou Gentle & Soothing Baby Lotion - RRP: $9.99 / 300ml

Available from Baby Bunting, Chemist Warehouse, Priceline & Woolworths as well as online from Thankyou

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

  
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22 September 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: ELEMIS JAPANESE CAMELLIA BODY OIL BLEND, MAXIMUM MOISTURE DAY CREAM AND WHITE FLOWERS EYE AND LIP MAKEUP REMOVER

 Today I'd like to put focus on a couple of products from Elemis that I've been enjoying lately…


Let's start with the Elemis Maximum Moisture Day Cream. This day cream is loaded with unique desert plants including myrothamnus and tamarind, which are known to for their adaptation to extreme climatic fluctuations while they are also rich in anti-oxidants. It also contains African Baobab tree, saw palmetto berries and black poplar bud, which are all rich in trace elements and vitamins to help keep the skin hydrated and energised.

The cream bears the name ‘maximum moisture’ which initially did concern me, as my combination skin is prone to breakouts, and too rich products often make it congested and break out, but I had no need to worry as the cream has the consistency of a light fluid that absorbs instantly into the skin without any greasiness. And in spite of this light formulation, it is still very moisturising, using the ingredients to adapt to the skin's needs to leave it moisturised, smooth and soft all day long. As it is so light, and non-greasy, it is also perfect to use under makeup during the day. The only negative can be that it comes without SPF, but personally I actually prefer that, as I do have days where I don't venture outside (I know, its bad, but in my defence, I have been trying to protect a sick baby from the cold weather this winter), and when I do go out, I don't mind having to add a SPF on top. The cream has the most divine gentle floral scent that you'll instantly fall in love with.

Then there's the Elemis White Flowers Eye & Lip Make-Up Remover. This bi-phase make-up remover is so efficient that it quickly removes all eye and lip makeup, including otherwise stubborn waterproof mascara and eyeliner, as well as those long-wearing lipsticks, and all without the need to rub at the sensitive eye area. The eye-makeup remover has an ever so subtle scent, but it still so gentle that it doesn’t irritate your eyes, even my very sensitive eyes. It is one of the most efficient eye makeup removers I've ever tried, and I love the fact that it has also been enriched with white peony extract to hydrate and white tea to cool, soothe and refresh and that it also helps condition the lashes.

For the body I am loving the Elemis Japanese Camellia Body Oil Blend. The aromatherapy oil is the ultimate multi-tasking product, suitable for absolutely everything from caring for your nails and cuticles, to taming and adding moisture to hair and scalp and keep your skin soft and moisturised, and not to forget, it may help reduce the appearance of scars and assist in the prevention of stretch marks – and as it is free from chemical nasties and contains no parabens, SLS or SLES, DEA, mineral oil, artificial colours or silicones, it is perfectly suitable for use during pregnancy too, so I did use it as a pampering treatment during my last treatment, and loved it so much that I had to get myself a new bottle when I ran out. The Body Oil has the most gorgeous scent from the camellia, and the lightweight oil absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving it so incredibly soft and with a nice sheen. And as I love the scent so much, I do enjoy using it as a cuticle oil too, so I can smell it on my hands, and when I’m done, I simply smooth any remaining oil over my hair to tame any frizz and give my hair a moisture boost too. It comes in a beautiful red glass bottle that looks stunning in the bathroom, and it has a small spout allowing you to get just the amount of oil without any wastage. Just beautiful!

 
Elemis Maximum Moisture Day Cream - RRP: $83 / 50ml
Elemis White Flowers Eye & Lip Make-Up Remover - RRP: $49 / 125ml
Elemis Japanese Camellia Body Oil Blend - RRP: $62 / 100ml

Available from Skincare Store, RY and FacialCo

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

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21 September 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: ARBONNE RE9 SMOOTHING FACIAL CLEANSER AND REGENERATING TONER AND NOURISHING FACIAL OIL

Today I'm going to talk about a couple of products from Arbonne that I've been putting to the test lately, which includes the RE9 Smoothing Facial Cleaner, the RE9 Regenerating Toner, and the Nourishing Facial Oil. And if you're regularly stopping by my little blog, you'll know that I've always been very impressed with Arbonne and the products that I've tried, so needless to say that I was also very happy putting these to the test.



Let's start with the Arbonne RE9 Smoothing Facial Cleanser. The RE9 range gets its name from the 9 potent ingredients that have been used in the products, which includes algae extract, vitamin C, bio-hydria complex, vitaspheres, elhibin, stimu-tex, alpha lipoic acid, copper, peptide and alpha and beta hydroxyl acids. Combining these ingredients with botanical ingredients including pineapple and papaya enzymes, marine lavender extract, beech tree bud extracts and kudzu root extract claims to “help support collagen and elastin production, nurturing the skin, leaving it softer and hydrated”.

This thick and rich foaming cleanser is easily washes away all makeup, except for my waterproof which I regardless still prefer to remove with a separate eye makeup remover first. The cleanser is very gentle, and does leave my skin feeling soft and smooth, and not dry or stripped from essential oils unlike many other cleansers. I love that it comes in an easy to use pump bottle, and that it has a fresh gentle scent of orange.




I then follow with the Arbonne RE9 Regenerating Toner, which I have actually previously in full, which you can see here. In short, this cleanser in a convenient pump bottle, making it super easy to apply after cleansing the skin - but of course, as you spray it onto the skin, unlike other toners that you swipe across the skin with a cotton pad, this one doesn't remove any remaining makeup or cleanser, but rather it soothes and refreshes the skin and add extra moisture and vitamins and helps regenerate the skin. In addition, I have also enjoyed using it on top of my makeup throughout the day to freshen it up. Like the RE9 Cleanser it also contains the 9 potent ingredients, and it does feel lovely on the skin, and I love the fact that it too has anti-ageing properties and is so gentle that it doesn't strip my skin with harsh ingredients and alcohol. 



Finally, there's Arbonne Nourishing Face Oil which contains among others omega fatty acids 3 and 6 and a super antioxidants, and promises to help support the skin, giving it intense hydration and moisture, improve the look of the skin's texture, and give the skin a more illuminated, radiant and even-toned complexion. With my combination ski, I am always concerned when I use not just oils, but any concentrated products on my skin, as they have shown to often quickly make my skin very congested and make it breakout. But thankfully that has not been the case with this oil, which is very light in consistency, and hence absorbs quickly into the skin without any greasiness. And it is very concentrated too, so you only need about 2-3 drops to cover your full face and neck.

The Nourishing Face Oil comes in a gorgeous white glass bottle with a convenient dropper that makes it easy to dispense just the amount of product needed. It has a slightly odd, slightly chemical scent that I'm not particularly fond off, but luckily it does fade rather quickly so it's not really an issue.

After having used the oil for a few weeks, prior to my usual moisturiser morning and night, I can definitely see that it has added intense moisture and nourishment to my skin, as it does look plumper and consequently also more radiant and glowing. I am not sure if it has made any significant difference to evening out my patchy and pigmented skin tone, but I'd also be surprised if a skincare product could correct in just a few weeks, what has been developing over many many years!

Overall I have yet again enjoyed trying out these products from Arbonne. The RE9 Cleanser and Toner are really lovely, and great for my ageing skin, and combined with the Nourishing Oil, my skin is without a doubt looking a little healthier and radiant, and hence also more well-rested and younger too.


Arbonne RE9 Smoothing Facial Cleaner - RRP: $65.50 / 90ml
Arbonne RE9 Regenerating Toner - RRP: $56 / 50ml
Arbonne Nourishing Facial Oil - RRP: $110 / 30ml

Available from Arbonne

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

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20 September 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: TRANSFORMULAS MIRACLE DAILY GYCOL PRIMING CLEANSER, MARINE MIRACLE EYE ZONE AND EYELIFTING GEL

Today I'd like to chat about a couple of products from the Transformulas that I've been putting to the test, including the Miracle Daily Glycol Priming Cleanser, the Marine Miracle Eye Zone and the EyeLifting Gel. 
  



Let's start with the Transformulas Miracle Daily Glycol Priming Cleanser. This cleanser is a foaming cleanser containing lactic and glycolic acid to help give the skin a natural exfoliation, to help remove not only makeup, but also dirt and serum to keep the skin soft, smooth and blemish free, but also help stimulate new growth of skin cells by decreasing the bond that holds dead skin cells onto the epidermis. It also contains witch hazel, known for its astringent properties to help tighten the skin and clean the pores, and glycerin to help the skin maintain its water balance, making it soft and supple.

This light-blue cleanser has a gorgeous scent, and is best used morning and evening by massaging a small amount into the damp skin before rinsing it off with water. I have to admit that I don't particularly like using it as a makeup remover, but rather prefer it as a second cleanse, once I've already removed my makeup, to give my skin a deeper and more thorough cleanse.

And after use, my skin is really left silky soft and smooth, yet without any irritation or dryness. With continued use, I am starting to feel that it is helping make my skin look more glowing and youthful. And because it is gently removing dead skin cells and hence unclogging pores, I also feel that it is helping keep my skin clearer and more blemish free.

Next is the Transformulas EyeLifting Gel, which has been designed to soften fine lines, reduce expression lines, diminish under-eye puffiness and add radiance to the eye area - all in all ticking every box for me.

This Eye Gel comes in a long lip gloss-style packaging, and it comes with clear instructions on how to apply it. You simply sweep it under the eye from the nose out towards the corner of the eye, then gently smoothing out any excess gel and holding. You can also use it under the brow bone.

When you apply it, you can immediately feel the cooling effect, and after a few minutes you start to notice that the eye area is getting a little tighter where you have applied the gel, and any puffiness and expression lines are reduced, eyes look more open and lifted, and the eye area consequently looks more less tired and more youthful. I also applied the gel to a frown line between my brows that does bother me a little, and again, I noticed a small reduction in its appearance too. 

  



Finally, there's the Transformulas Marine Miracle Eye Zone, which is an eye cream that works to regenerate and repair the delicate eye area, as well as encourage firmness, working to reduce dark circles, eye puffiness, wrinkles and fine lines. 

The cream contains a highly concentrated ingredient Aldavine, which contains two unique marine algae giving the cream its anti-ageing benefits. The Eye Cream comes in a futuristic looking silver orb/ball, and it has a light cream/gel texture that absorbs quickly and easily into the skin, leaving it feeling silky soft and smooth. And as there is absolutely no greasy residue, it is also perfect for use under makeup. And after having used it for a few weeks, I am really enjoying using this eye cream, as I started to notice that dark circles and puffiness is improving as well as some fine lines appear to be looking less noticeable, also because my skin around my eye area is clearly very moisturised and hence looking more plump, so overall my eye area looks more refreshed. My only negative about this cream is the scent, it has a gorgeous scent, but I do have very sensitive eyes, and if I have a day where they are very irritated, this scent is sadly enough to make them more irritated and water, so I would prefer if it was less fragranced, or ideally fragrance free.

 
Overall I have been enjoying putting these Transformulas products to the test, and have particularly fallen for the Miracle Daily Glycol Priming Cleanser that I have also been enjoying using along with my Clairsonic for an even deeper clean.
 

Transformulas EyeLifting Gel - RRP: $49 / 10ml
Transformulas Marine Miracle Eye Zone - RRP: $49 / 10ml
Transformulas Miracle Daily Glycol Priming Cleanser - RRP: $35 / 100ml

Available from Priceline and Select Pharmacies
* Products have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.

 
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18 September 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: DESIGNER BRANDS MINERAL EYESHADOW QUADS

I'm sure you've all heard about Designer Brands - the Aussie brand that this year is celebrating 10 years in the market, and known their large range of affordable cosmetics, at high quality and free from chemical nasties such as parabens, talc and bismuth, as well as they are vegan and cruelty free certified! Well, to coincide with the anniversary, DB Cosmetics, as they are also called, are launching a range of new exciting products, including three Mineral Eyeshadow Quads in limited edition shades. 





The Mineral Quad Eyeshadow Quads are available in the shades Added Warmth, Pretty in Plum, and In the Shadows.

Often drugstore eyeshadows leave a lot to be desired in regards to pigmentation and wear, so I was pleasantly surprised when I saw how pigmented these were, and that, with the use of primer first, they actually also do stay put all day, without settling into creases, or without any fallout, even on my greasy eyelids.

Each of the palettes have a nice combination of shades, and contain finely milled Sericite Mika to make them silky soft, and Vitamin E to prevent any dryness and make them super easy to blend. 

I also really like the shades in each palette come numbered 1 to 4, and that on the back of each palette there is a how-to guide to help you create the perfect eye look.

Of course, each of the shades can be used individually for a simply and quick look, or in combination for a more dramatic and intense look.





You start by applying shade 1 to the brow bone and inner corner of the eye to lift and open the eye. Apply shade 2 to the entire lid as a base colour. Apply shade 3 to the crease and outer corner of the eye.

Use shade 4 to deepen the colour in the corner of your eye and define the top and bottom lash line.

Now onto the shades;
 
  • Added Warmth - containing matte beige, shimmery golden, matte orange, matte dark chocolate
  • Pretty in Plum - containing matte dusty rose, shimmery lavender, matte dusty greyish-purple, and matte dark purple
  • In the Shadows - containing matte beige, shimmery golden, matte taupe, matte dark grey
 
Each of these palettes are stunning in their own right, and the colours are perfectly suited to each other to wear in any combination, or of course, as individual shades. My least favourite of the three is the Pretty In Plum, but that's merely because I am a tad conservative with the shades I wear on my eyes, and purple is not one of those shades I'd normally reach for - but still the shades are gorgeous.
 
The palette I'll without a doubt reach for the most is the In The Shadows containing more neutral shades as well as the dark grey, perfect for lining the eyes for a more intense look.
 
Finally, the Added Warmth - this is the palette that at first glance caught my eyes first. My second thought was that this is a stunning range of colours, but surely that orange is impossible to wear, but I was surprisingly wrong, as it actually looks very stunning, and if blended properly and used in moderation with the other shades in the palette, I will actually be using these shades too.
 
   
So there you go, some beautiful looking palette from Designer Brands which are definitely worth checking out, but be quick as these are limited edition, and these are sure to fly off the shelves.
 
    
Designer Brands Mineral Quad Eyeshadow Quad - RRP: $9.99 each
 
Available from Designer Cosmetics Online and select pharmacies 
 
* Products kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy. 
 
   
 
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17 September 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: MEDIK8 EYELIFT AGE-DEFYING EYE FIRMING GEL

Today I'd like to share with you a product from one of my all time favourite brands, the Eyelift Age-Defying Eye Firming Gel from Medik8.  



I rarely get a decent night sleep these days, with two little toddlers. It's mostly around midnight before I hit the sheets, and I'm usually up by 6.30am, and that after usually being woken at least once, but often several times during the nigh, by in particularly the older one, the 3 year old having nightmares, or simply needing reassurance that he is not alone. So needless to say that I rarely wake up looking like a million bucks - but rather feeling tired and with huge bags under my eyes. Enter the Medik8 Eyelift.
 
This eye gel helps fights the major signs of ageing, including ;    
  • Reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines around the eyes
  • Reduce the appearance of tired eyes, dark circles and puffiness
  • Improve skin firmness and hydrate and nourish the skin
  • Restore youthful resilience and contours
  • Boost elastin
  • Lift and smooth the skin
  • Provide immediate radiance thanks to light reflecting pigments 
 
The Eyelift contains among others;  
  • Matrixyl 3000® twin peptide to help increase skin firmness, stimulate elastin and hyaluronic acid.
  • Rice peptides containing complex of powerful antioxidants to help improve the microcirculation and reduce the appearance of puffiness and reduce discolouration
  • Hesperidin/Dipeptides to help reduce puffiness and bags under the eyes
  • Matrikines, which are other peptides to help reduce fine lines
  • Tetrapeptides to help to minimise inflammation, which can cause puffiness 

So in short, this Eyelift is just what my eye contour area needs. I am faced with increasing lines and wrinkles and have tired eyes with dark circles and bags.
 
The Eyelift has a very light gel consistency that instantly absorbs into the skin without any greasiness, so it is perfect for use under makeup during the day too, which is something I find is rare with eye creams. It has a nice cooling feeling that immediately feels soothing on the eye area. And in spite of the lightness of the gel, you can immediately see and feel that it is very moisturising, and it truly does have an immediate impact.
 
After using it for a while, I have noticed that it is making my eye area look less tired, and bags and circles under my eyes are clearly reduced in appearance and my eye area thus looking more refreshed, and dare I say more youthful.
 
The Eyelift comes in a convenient little pump bottle that makes it very easy, and also hygienic to use - and as it is very light and spreads easily, and is so concentrated too, you only need to use the tiniest bit.
My only negative about this eye cream is that the pump does make it difficult to dispense just a little and I find that a full pump will give you a tad too much, so consequently I end up using a bit more than really necessary.
 
    
Medik8 Eyelift Age-Defying Eye Firming Gel - RRP: $89 / 15ml
Available from Medik8, RY, Active Skin and Adore Beauty

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

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14 September 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: PELACTIV VITA C + RAPID C SERUM + AHA

One of those brands I've heard so much about over the years, but never had a chance to try is Pelactiv. Pelactiv is an Australian brand that incorporates the purest Australian native plant extracts in combination with the prime active ingredient, Lactic Acid. Today I am putting the Pelactiv Vita C+ Rapid C Serum + AHA to the test.  


This is a serum that contains a high concentration of Vitamin C, 15% to be exact made from a combination of L-absorbic acid and Kakadu Plum, along with AHA and BHA to help treat any visible signs of ageing. The L-absorbic acid works below the skin to also protect it from UVA and UVB rays and stimulate new collagen production, while AHA's from milk extract and BHA's help exfoliate and gently buff away dead skin cells, while hydrating the skin to make it clear and radiant, with pigmentation reduced and the skin looking more youthful.

The serum is to be used at night after cleansing and toning, and three small drops is more than sufficient of the concentrated serum to spread across your face, and neck, avoiding the sensitive eye area. Once fully absorbed, you'll need to follow with you usual moisturiser.

The Pelactiv Vita C+ Rapid C Serum + AHA comes in a cute little silver pump bottle, and the golden serum has a slightly odd scent that lucky does fade rather quickly. The serum has a light consistency, and it absorbs quickly into the skin, making it feel soft and moisturised, and in no way oily or greasy.

Already after a few days use I was in love with this serum, as I could clearly see the difference it made to my skin. The gentle exfoliation is clearly making my skin feel and look smoother, so small lines seem to be slightly minimised too, and it is also helping both keep blemishes at bay and clear up existing ones faster. And in general it is just making my skin look more even and glowing. And with continued use, the results gets better and better, and even after a bad nights sleep, this serum helps my skin look more radiant and alive in the mornings.

So overall I have really enjoyed adding this Pelactiv Vita C+ Rapid C Serum + AHA from Pelactiv to my skincare routine, and I will be sad the day I finish the bottle!

 
Pelactiv Pelactiv Vita C+ Rapid C Serum + AHA - RRP: $60.84 / 15ml
Available from ActiveSkin


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




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