Wednesday 3 October 2012

The "what would you like in my giveaway?" post



So as I am about to head off to europe for 3 weeks and will be doing mucho shopping. I thought I would spread the love and pick up a few items for a giveaway.

My question is... what are 2 things you'd like to see from French or UK brands?

Are you hankering for some Bioderma? Maybe a spritz of Caudalie beauty elixir? What about a Sleek blush trio? Do you like the idea of Bourjois 1 second nail polish remover? How about some Barry M nail polish?


Let me know and I'll see you when I get back!

And just a heads up, this will be an Australia only giveaway.




Tuesday 2 October 2012

September Faves 2012


I always find it so difficult to whittle the numbers of favourites down to a reasonable number. I think I was quite concise this month!

I've actually got a lot of skincare favourites, but I think I'll do my skincare routine in a different post. I have finally got to a stage where I'm really happy with my skincare routine and it's really working for me.

Estee Lauder Pure Color Lipstick in Crystal Baby (Creme)

This is a gorgeous creamy, pinky nude. I got this lipstick as a sample in an Estee Lauder gift pack at some stage and I'm absolutely loving it. It's my go-to-lipstick for a natural look. The scent is the typical EL fig scent, that is yummy without being over powering. The lipstick itself is moisturising and lasts a few hours on me. Similar to the MAC cremesheen formula but a little bit creamier.

NYX Blush in Desert Rose
I made a huge haul from beautyjoint.com not that long ago, including a few NYX blushes. NYX blushes are amazing! I find the fomulation to be so similar to NARS but without the high price. Desert Rose is a beautiful deep, shimmering rose. It is very pigmented and due to me being ghostly pale I need to use a really light hand. This is a statement blush for me and gives me that flushed English rose complexion. Soooo pretty. This blush would work amazingly for darker skinned girls or those crazy white girls like me.

Perricone MD Advanced Face Firming Activator
Bobbi Brown BB Cream in Extra Light
Estee Lauder Invisible Fluid Makeup in 1N1
OK I'm going through these together as they have been my everyday staples and I'm loving the combination. Perricone's face firming activator has been a saviour for my skin. It a thick serum/light moisturiser based on glycolic acid and lots of other skin goodies. This feels so good on my skin, keeps breakouts away and really calms the redness I am prone to. I follow this up with Bobbi Brown's BB Cream, which gives me SPF35 protection, evens out skin tone and really balances my skin to reduce the oily T-zone and moisturise the rest of my face. Sometimes I've been leaving it there and continuing on to concealer etc, but if I want a smoother finish I go in with EL Invisible Fluid Makeup. This combination is great for everyday, natural makeup. Let me know if you'd like a more in depth review on these?

Kerastase Chroma Riche Hair Masque
This hair mask is amazing! I don't have enough good things to say. Maybe I've found my HG hair mask? It leaves my hair so soft and moisturised without weighing it down. I use it every other wash and I really look forward to those washes. I would use it every time I wash my hair except I am too lazy as I leave it in for a few minutes. It's designed for colour treated hair and it's meant to make it luminous and accentuate the colour. I'm not sure it's amazing for that, but it certainly doesn't leave it dull. I do still use a serum afterwards.

What are your faves this month?



Saturday 29 September 2012

I won! Maybelline Color Tattoo in Barely Beige


Thank you so much to Kate from la beaute et la blogueur!! This is my first blog giveaway win :) I was stoked to receive an email from Kate a) because it's exciting to win something and b) because I was lusting after this product.

This is the Maybelline Color Tattoo in Barely Beige. The shade was released as part of the Fall 2012 Collection in the Northern Hemisphere. I'm sure we will get it here at some stage, and really hope we do because it is a beautiful shade.

This cream eyeshadow is a gorgeous light champagne gold. It is basically my skin but shimmer-ier. I love to wear this on it's own and also as a base. It is so easy to wear and has meant that I can check MAC's bare study off my lemming list as they are quite similar shades.


Have you won a giveaway before? And what's your favorite Color Tattoo colour?


Monday 24 September 2012

Lust Have It - September 2012

Ok so I'm not sure how this will turn out. I'm trying to blog from my iPhone app because some crazy puppy critter demolished my laptop power cable (see below).

I was actually excited to open this month's box. Quite a few nice goodies!

Aum gentle facial foam cleanser:
Looks nice but fragranced heavily with essential oils so my skin might freak out.

YSL Opium Vapeurs De Parfum:
A flanker to the original Opium fragrance. It's meant to be a more wearable, lighter version. A quick spray has me intrigued... Quite sweet and zesty, waiting to see if the sweetness settles on the dry down. I hate sickly sweet scents.

Davroe Colour Senses Ends Repair:
A leave in treatment to seal split ends and make them shiny. I'm so there.

Morrissey Hand & Body Lotion:
Smells nice but like I need another body lotion sample...

Mirenesse Icon Sealer 24hr Concealer:
This looks really nice. Concealer and eyeshadow base in a shade pale enough for me.. No seriously it is!

Update on the perfume 5 minutes on - arrrggghhhh I smell like a candy shop.



How did you fair with LHI this month??

Sunday 23 September 2012

Foundations for Pale Skin Pick: MAC Matchmaster 1.0


So I previously posted about a few foundations I was trying that might match my pasty skin (ON TRIAL: Foundations for Pale Skin). As you can tell from the title of this post, the foundation that I went for was MAC Matchmaster in shade 1.0. The claim for the MAC Matchmaster foundation is that it will adjust to match your skin tone. I don't know about this, but the colour match is great and they have a wide range of colours. I can't really imagine shade 1.0 being too pale for many people.



As you can see from the swatches, it is a nice pale, neutral shade.
                         

I like that this foundation provides medium coverage, which is what I like. I prefer to use a medium coverage foundation and conceal any extra spots. You do have to be careful because if you build it too much then it can get cakey. It wears a good 8 hours for me without fading. And there is only slight fading around my chin and nose from there until I take it off (up to 14 hours I've worn it). In terms of texture, it is neither thin nor thick in consistency but it has a powdery feel to it. I think due to these powders, you have to work quickly to buff it into the skin. I suggest working in sections as it really does set. You don't really need to use a powder, but I like to use a light layer of MAC MSF Natural just to give the finish a bit of dimension. I find it can look flat without a bit of help. This is not a foundation for dry skin. It works great on my combination skin type.

The only frustrating thing I find about the Matchmaster foundation is that it is really important to be well moisturised before applying the foundation because it dries so quickly. I always have to apply a thin layer of moisturiser immediately prior to applying the foundation so it glides on nicely. For people who regularly use a primer, I guess this is a non issue.

For everyday wear I like to apply the foundation with my fingers because I find the warmth helps to blend it in nicely. For a fuller coverage I like to use a buffing brush/flat top kabuki.

Overall I'm really happy with this foundation. The colour match is the best in my collection and for that it will be a stayer.

Before and After shots
No makeup :(

One layer of MAC Matchmaster in 1.0 applied with a Real Techniques Buffing Brush

Full Face of makeup:
MAC Matchmaster 1.0
Collection 2000 Lasting Perfection Concealer in Fair
Maybelline Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment in Fair
MAC MSF Natural in Medium
Chanel Crayons Sourcils Eyebrow Pencil in Blonde Clair
Stila In the Light Eyeshadow Palette
Maybelline the Falsies Mascara
MAC Pro Longwear Bronzer in Nude on Board
NYX Powder Blush in Desert Rose
Estee Lauder Pure Colour Lipstick in Crystal Baby


Apologies about all the unflattering photos in this post, but I think it's great to see how a foundation works in action.

What's your favourite foundation??

Wednesday 19 September 2012

Online Shopping


I buy a lot of my beauty products online. So I thought I'd put together this list of websites that I've used that I think are fantastic. Check them out!!

strawberrynet.com
As quick as 3 days from date of order! Usually a week.
Skincare, fragrance, haircare and makeup.

lookfantastic.com
Free delivery to Australia. 
Super cheap Kerastase.

sasa.com
Lots of great asian brands - japanese sunscreens!

styletread.com.au
Australian based shoe store.
Delivery in a day or 2. 
Free returns!!

beautybay.com
Lots of great brands and free shipping. 
Delivery usually 2-3 weeks.

kissandmakeupny.com
What I buy from here:
NARS (I haven't got Laura Mercier or Smashbox from here but I would in the future)

beautyjoint.com
US drugstore brands such as Wet n Wild & E.L.F. 
10 days from order to receipt of goods.

iherb.com
Real Techniques and EcoTools brushes
Delivery within a couple of weeks.

adorebeauty.com.au
Shipping within a couple of days. Australian website for makeup and skincare. 
Free samples and a free fun size chocolate bar >.<


What's your favorite online store?



Monday 17 September 2012

NOTD: butter LONDON Pink Ribbon

I got a free butter LONDON nail polish in Pink Ribbon with this month's InStyle magazine. There's a choice between this one or Pillar Box Red. This is 3 coats. It doesn't really go opaque. I don't really love it as it is but it would work amazingly for a french manicure!



Bonus puppy shot! (excuse the fluff I just brushed off her)

Did you pick up your freebie nail polish this month??



Thursday 13 September 2012

Spring has Sprung! ~ Favourite Sunscreens

We have had a few days of fantastic sunny weather here in Melbourne and I've started cracking out the sunscreen. I always wear face and neck sunscreen (always always always always), however I've started slapping on the body sunscreen for the extra bits that show too as the sun is getting stronger and I'm wearing less! I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to go through my favorite sunscreens.

I generally like my sunscreens to contain the physical sun blocker (inorganic), Zinc Oxide. I won't go into all the nitty gritty on the different between organic and inorganic sunscreens as futurederm has just recently done a wonderful series on comparing chemical and physical sunscreens (find the final part and summary here). It's a great read.

For me, the reason I gravitate toward Zinc Oxide is that because it is a physical blocker, it is more stable than chemical sunscreens. So as long as you aren't out in harsh sun and the product is still on your face at the end of the day, it should still be protecting you at the end of the day.

I'll start by saying that the reason that these all made my faves list is that they offer good UV protection - I don't stay this pasty by using SPF15. They also all set to a nice matte finish that is dry to touch and work great as a primer to help my T-zone stay matte.

So without further ado, here are my favourite sunscreens.

Clinique City Block Sheer SPF25
$36 for 40mL from Clinique counters
Titanium Dioxide 7.3%, Zinc Oxide 6.9%
This sunscreen doesn't contain any chemical UV filters. I really like this sunscreen on it's own if I am going makeup-free (or just some mineral powder) as this is the only one with a tint. The only thing that stops me using this every day is that I don't find my liquid foundations sit that well over the top of it and it lends to a powdery kind of finish. The other great thing about this sunscreen is I find it moisturising enough with a hydrating serum underneath so it's quick and easy. This sunscreen is also the only unfragranced one. Probably the best of the bunch for drier skins due to it's moisturising ability. I use this for face.


Dior Diorsnow White Reveal UV Protection SPF50 - Translucent
$59 for 30mL from strawberrynet
Zinc Oxide 19%, Octinoxate 7.5%
Now I love this sunscreen due to the ultra high SPF, so this is for when I want to pull out the big guns. I don't recommend it for everyday use because it is quite thick and it does leave a notable white cast. I find foundations don't layer that well with this either, similar to the clinique. All these drawbacks are due to the super high Zinc Oxide content, which is it's big bonus too. This also contains a good number of antioxidants including vitamin C, which is great for when you're out in the sun. This one is also the priciest. I use this for face.






Shiseido Extra Smooth Sun Protection Cream SPF38 PA+++
$36 for 50mL from strawberrynet
Zinc Oxide 9.6%, Octinoxate 7.4%
I think this is available at Australian Shiseido counters under the same name but listed as SPF30+. I got mine from strawberrynet. This sunscreen gets the most use due to the fact it's a great all rounder. It doesn't leave a white cast, has a really nice smooth texture, is a combination of physical and chemical UV blockers and works well with makeup. The SPF level is one I'm happy with for all year round too. This one has the smoothest finish out of the lot and really evens out my skin's texture. I use this for face.



Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch SPF30+
$17.99 for 85mL from priceline, supermarkets etc etc
helioplex: Homosalate 15%, Octyl Salicylate 5%, Oxybenzone 6%, Octylcrylene 4.5%, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane 3%
My favourite inexpensive (relative to my other choices at least!) sunscreen. I use this sunscreen as my daily body sunscreen and also for both face and body when exercising. I prefer this sunscreen on my face for exercise because for some reason I'm concerned about Zinc Oxide blocking my pores when I'm sweating profusely and this is a chemical based sunscreen. I don't know if my fear is unfounded or not, but I'm happy with this anyway and it definitely doesn't clog pores. I also don't worry about throwing this in my jersey pocket when I go cycling - no way I'd throw one of my expensive sunscreens back there. This sunscreen is fabulous, protects your skin for hours and has a great matte, dry touch finish. I've not found another sunscreen from the supermarket/priceline that has as nice a finish as this. I use this for face and body.



So which sunscreen would I choose to take with me if I was only allowed one on my desert island? The Shiseido Extra Smooth - it's got the best finish and is so comfortable to wear.


Remember you need to apply 1/3-1/2 tsp for full SPF protection for face and neck.
I'm always on the lookout for new, good sunscreens. What are your favourites??






bellabox! September 2012


Bioderma Sebium Foaming Gel
A nice big 10mL sample, I wish it was in a resealable tube though. I like my Bioderma makeup remover so it'll be interesting to try some other bits from them.

Bioderma Sebium Akin Purifying Corrective Care
I really wish they would include ingredients for these products. I'm confused because the description makes it sound like a moisturiser for acne prone skin and then they talk about using it as a spot treatment. I'm interested to know what the active ingredients are to make this claim. Interesting little product in a cute little tube.

You, Me & Everybody Sumptuous Skin Mousse
This is a basic body moisturiser in mousse form. Gimmicky but cute.

Savoir Faire Concealer Kit
There's 4 little concealers in a range of shades and a couple of setting powders in this kit. This is a cute little addition, I always like makeup products. It will be handy for travelling if the product is any good...

USPA Beehold
This medium hold hair styling gel comes in really cute packaging. It looks super gloopy and I'm not so good with styling product so I'm a bit scared but intrigued too because this is meant to help volumise during a blow dry. Nice addition.

Benefit It's Potent! Eye Cream
This 3g sample is in a super mini version of the full size product's packaging. It's a cute jar and 3g of eye cream goes a long way. Excited to try this... it will be tough to top the results I've seen from using a little sample of Bobbi Brown's EXTRA Eye Repair Cream recently.

There's also a $15 voucher for theiconic.com.au ahhhh do I need MORE shoes?


Did you get the same box this month?

Tuesday 11 September 2012

The Followup - 10 days, 10 products


(First post HERE)

Don't get me wrong, the whole 10 days, 10 products things was an awesome experiment... But OM(F)G am I glad that's over! OK so let's break it down:

What I learned
I really do have way too many cosmetics
You can pretty much get away with 10 essential makeup items
Lip colours are my addiction
I'm more of a pencil liner than liquid liner gal
I feel confident going out with just BB cream, mascara and blush on

What I loved
Not having to think about what makeup I'm putting on each day
Fresh face in 2 minutes flat
Realising how much I love the Bobbi Brown BB cream
Rediscovering Maybelline's Age Rewind Eraser Concealer
Revlon Grow Luscious Plumping Mascara in Blackened Brown

What I hated
Not being able to coordinate lip and cheek colour with my outfit
Not having a bronzer
I had to use the same powder in the morning and take it with me in my bag, which was annoying to keep moving back and forth


Even though my 10 products included eyeliner, a cream eyeshadow and a lipstain, I found most days I skipped these steps altogether. I really learnt how much I like to coordinate the colours I use with what I wear for the day and found I'd prefer nothing than risk having it not suit the look.


What products could you not live without?




Sunday 9 September 2012

NOTD: L'Oreal Colour Riche Beige Boheme


Excuse the teeny tiny unmanicured nails! I tried a new base coat and it decimated my nails. I have tiny nails to begin with because I was a ridiculous nail biter when I was little - you know the eat them 'til they bleed type so I permanently shortened them. So anyway... about the nail polish! I love these mini bottles. The L'Oreal Colour Riche Le Vernis range comes in awesome little 5mL bottles that retail for AU$6.95. I like small bottles because I have never finished a polish before and it lets you try more colours.

Beige Boheme is a gorgeous creamy beige with just the tiniest hint of pink. It's the perfect neutral polish for me. The formula is so creamy and is opaque with 1 coat, but I used 2 because it evens out the colour a little better. The brush is one of those fantastic wide brushes with a curved cuticle shaped tip. The finish is smooth and glossy, as you can see from the photo - look ma, no top coat! Now I've just applied this so I can't comment on how long this polish lasts, but it feels quite solid.

The L'Oreal Colour Riche Le Vernis are currently available in 27 shades according to the L'Oreal website and are currently on sale at Priceline :)

If this wears well I will definitely be picking up a plethora of shades.


What's your favourite neutral polish?



Friday 7 September 2012

LUSH haul!


So I went into LUSH today because I wanted to try out their dry shampoo. I've got a couple of overseas trips coming up and I wanted to see if this is the kind of thing I could use to refresh my hair so I look fresh instead of mucky when I get off the plane :) 

It appears a few extra things jumped into my basket....

Yuzu & Cocoa Bubbleroon - I haven't tried these bubbleroons before, but I love Yuzu (eating it!! yum!)
Fizzbanger Bath Ballistic - trying something new, this is meant to be apple scented and have some glitters. My faves are geo fizz and butter ball.

Eau Roma Water - another purchase I thought that would be handy for flying. My facial spritzes are either over 100mL or in a pressurised can so I thought I'd give this a try. I love the rose and lavender scent although my husband thinks it smells a bit like public toilets >.<

No Drought - the powdered dry shampoo I actually came in for!

Sweet Lips - I've been dying to try this vanilla and chocolate lip scrub for ages. It tastes great and is easier than making it myself.

The Olive Branch - this shower gel smells lovely and fresh and is meant to be soothing for dry skin. Another one to pop into my travel bag!



What's your favorite LUSH product? Let me know so maybe it will accidentally fall into my basket next time.

Monday 3 September 2012

Liebster Award




The lovely Jasmine from My Cup of Tequila has tagged me for the Liebster Award. It was a while ago but I have been pretty slack :( 
But I have gotten around to it now. Thanks Jasmine for tagging me!

Here are the rules for the Liebster Award:
1. Each person must post 11 things about themselves.
2. Answer the 11 questions the person giving the award has set for you.
3. Create 11 questions for the people you will be giving the award to.
4. Choose 11 people to award and send them a link to your post.
5. Go to their page and tell them.
6. No tag backs.

Jasmine's questions:
  1. If you were on an island and could only take three beauty products with you, what would they be?
    1. Sunscreen! Neutrogena Ultra Sheer SPF30+
    2. Lip balm - Jack Black Lemno & Chamomile with SPF25
    3. Face wash - Alpha-h Balancing Cleanser
  2. Nude lips, yay or nay? 
    • Yay
  3. What make up product do you own way too much of? (e.g. lipsticks, foundation etc)
    • Foundation - I don't know if I have enough fingers or even toes for that matter to count the number of bases I have acquired
  4. How often do you visit Priceline or any other beauty counter (including Kmart/Target)? 
    • Probably once a week. I do check for new specials and catalogues online frequently too.
  5. How did you decide to name your blog?
    • I'm still not really happy with my blog name. I got all confused when I was trying to brainstorm a name and it was like being stuck in a maze and so it kind of evolved from there.
  6. What is the most expensive make up or beauty item you own?
    • my clarisonic mia that set me back about $120 I think
  7. Do you prefer to focus your makeup onto your eyes or lips?
    • Lips!! I wear glasses regularly so it's much easier to focus on lips
  8. What is your favourite eyeshadow and/or lip colour?
    • champagne on the eyes and I don't have a favorite lip colour - I like most of them to be honest
  9. What makeup look or accessory makes you most nervous about pulling off? (e.g. nude lips, dark lips, false eyelashes, eyeliner, bold eyebrows etc)
    • Dramatic eyes. I have small eyes and I find bold eye makeup can make them look smaller if I'm not careful.
  10. What is your favourite nail polish shade?
    • Looooveee Jamaican Out by China Glaze - a gorgeous shimmery orange
  11. What is your favourite perfume?
    • Chanel Jersey

I'm so bad at these pass the love on tags. Thanks to Mia from thatlovelyface.blogspot.com.au who makes me feel less bad it :) I'm just not much of an online social butterfly, and I'm a massive rebel, yeah.

Hope you enjoyed this!

Saturday 1 September 2012

10 Days, 10 Products


So after freaking out about how many products and how much money I spend on beauty products in my "How much is your face worth?" post (see post here), I've decided to pose myself 2 different challenges.

The first one is 10 products for 10 days. I thought I'd try and streamline my routine and select products that should get me through every day for 10 days. I always wonder how I managed to get by with nothing but a mineral powder, blush, eyeshadow and mascara. But I did that for years! Let's get back to basics and see how I cope. Maybe I'll end up with more time in the morning to relax, it's one less thing to think about if I already know what makeup I'll be using.

The second challenge will be a project pan one. I'm still deciding what products to choose for that challenge, but there are a few I know I will include that I thought I could get a head start on by using them in my 10 products for the next 10 days.

Here's what I chose:

1. Base
Bobbi Brown BB Cream SPF35 in Extra Light
Choosing a base was by far the hardest thing for this challenge. Depending on the time of the month, my skin goes from oil slick to desert. I have so many different foundations and BB creams that keep me covered for whatever my skin wants to throw at me. I've had the Bobbie Brown BB cream for a couple of weeks and I find the oil control great but it isn't drying. I'm hoping this will keep me well covered (ha! nice pun) for the next 10 days. I find the coverage is good but still light. You can still see my skin through the foundation but it is fantastic at dulling redness like my numerous angry post-acne pigmentation spots. The other bonus is that it is SPF35 so at this time of year I'm comfortable in skipping the sunscreen underneath which means less layers so my skin can breath. I'd also like to get some good use out if it before I post an in-depth review.

2. Blemish concealer 
Collection 2000 Lasting Perfection Concealer in 1 (Fair)
This one was a no brainer for me although it almost wasn't meant to be. I got out of the shower yesterday to find my dog chowing down on this concealer. Luckily she'd just gone for the lid so the product itself is still sealed and good. Choosing a lighter weight base meant I had to pull out the big guns for concealer and this is my favourite.

3. Undereye concealer
Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Treatment Concealer in 10 (Fair)
This is a quick and easy concealer but it isn't really heavy duty. Considering I'm going for a lightweight foundation I feel ok easing up on the undereye concealer a bit. This is one of the products I'd like to finish up in my project pan so we'll see how we go.

4. Setting powder/contour
MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural in Medium
I had a hard time trying to incorporate bronzer into 10 products so in the end I settled for MSF natural because the colour is a little dark for me if I apply more than a dusting, so I can use it to lightly powder my T-zone then use a bit more for contouring. Yay for multi-tasking.

5. Blush
NARS Blush in Luster
This is a gorgeous peachy bronze colour with shimmer. Great for completing a natural look and adding dimension. I much prefer to use a shimmery blush if I'm using a matte base.

6. Eyebrow pencil
Chanel Crayon Sourcils Sculpting Eyebrow Pencil in 10 (Blond Clair)
This eyebrow pencil is a staple for me. It matches my hair colour nicely and isn't too orange or dark like so many pencils are.

7. Eyeshadow
Benefit Creaseless Cream Eyeshadow in Birthday Suit
If I am only going to use one eyeshadow, this is it. I love the colour and it manages to brighten and define in one easy step. It's like a miracle for my eyelids.

8. Eyeliner
Dior Diorliner
I have had this automatic liquid eyeliner pen forever. I only tend to use liquid liner when I go out for special occasions. This is another one I want to knock over in project pan so let's see how I go using liquid liner every day. I really like this liner. The brush tip is so soft and flexible but holds its shape well. It's just getting old so if I don't use it I'd throw it out anyway for hygiene reasons.

9. Mascara
Revlon Grow Luscious Plumping Mascara in Blackened Brown
I really like this mascara. It is brilliant at providing volume and defining. I just don't think I'm much of a brown mascara person. I have little eyes so I like to really bring them out with lashings of black mascara. Another project pan inclusion so it doesn't go to waste.

10. Lip colour
Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain in Honey
Choosing a lip colour was the hardest thing behind the base. I needed something that I could use every day for every situation. I thought this would be a good pick because the mauvey pink colour goes with everything. Being a stain, it is also really easy to go from dabbing on a sheer wash of colour to layering it for a nice pop.

The 10 days face



So I picked 10 items as a nice round number, but I really don't think I could commit to less than that. Even picking just 10 products to use every day was harder than I thought it would be.

How many products do you think you could get away with? I'm so excited for this challenge!!


Monday 27 August 2012

TAG: How much is your face worth? (!!!)

Lovely Louise over at Sprinkle of Glitter (http://sprinkleofglitter.blogspot.com/) posted this tag this morning (she is very funny, go check her out). I thought this sounded like a scaringly confrontational idea so I jumped in and did the costing for an average FOTD for me.

Yeah you love my sexy mug, unkempt hair and eyebrows....


What got slapped on my face this morning:

1. Olay Regenerist Revitalising Serum (Fragrance Free) $32.49
2. SHE Pure Lift Eye Cream $14.95
3. Clinique City Block Sheer SPF25 $36
4. Bobbi Brown Corrector in Porcelain Bisque $46
5. Bourjois 123 Perfect foundation in 51 Light Vanilla $32
6. Collection 2000 Lasting Perfection Concealer in 1 Fair (4 pounds from the UK) = $6
7. Maybelline Dream Lumi Touch in 01 Ivory $14.95
8. Rimmel Stay Matte Powder in Translucent $12.95
9. Benefit Powderflage - freebie and I don't think you can buy it anymore.. cha-ching I'm calling this $0
10. Nars Blush in Douceur $45
11. Chanel Crayon Sourcils Scultping Eyebrow Pencil in #10 Blond Clair $34 (strawberrynet.com)
12. Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow in Birthday Suit $19 (benefitcosmetics.com)
13. Stila Smudge Stick in Stingray $32
14. Maybelline the Falsies Flared Mascara in Very Black $19.25
15. Revlon Lip Butter in Strawberry Shortcake $21.95

This is my OMG my face costs $366.53 face.

That is just frickin' ridiculous!! High-five to ridiculous Aussie prices too. I must say, I would only have paid full price for maybe 4 or 5 of those items, so I feel a little better... but not much. I can't believe I used 15 products this morning too. Haha sooo ridiculous. But so much fun, yeah?

How much does your face cost? I'm really interested to know.. am I excessive? Maybe. Hmmmmm.





Lust Have It August 2012


Apologies for the super late post but I was only able to get down to the post office to pick up my goodies this morning! August is almost over already. This year is going sooooooo quickly.

Not a bad box from Lust Have It this month. Not as spectacular as I would expect for a 1 year anniversary box, but I like the selection of products.

1. tanGo Tan Removal Glove
This is a microfibre glove designed to remove fake tan. I have a microfibre towel from Kathmandu for travelling that is exactly the same material as this. The pamphlet says you can use this as a makeup remover with only water. I haven't tried this yet, but I'm intrigued as to how it will work.

2. Bioderma Atoderm Cream
A rich body moisturiser. I am going through body moisturisers at a rate of knots right now as my skin is super dry and cranky. Nothing has really gotten rid of the dryness, so looking forward to putting this moisturiser up to the challenge.

3. Tigi Catwalk Session Series: Styling Cream
This is meant to be a de-frizzing styling cream with light hold. This is a full size, 150mL product worht $29.95. Thunbs up to that! I really like my Moroccan Oil Styling Cream and look forward to comparing this one as it's cheaper.

4. Aromatherapy Associates Rose Hydrating Mask & Triple Rose Renewing Moisturiser
These are a couple of small sample tubes. Probably one use for the mask and maybe 2 or 3 for the moisturiser. These smell divine - like a rose garden. Great little samples.

5. Wet n Wild Nail Polish
Silver sparkly nail polish. A cute inclusion but I don't know where you can get Wet n Wild retail here in Aus.

6. Shiseido Lipstick in RD305

This is a fantastic sample. I love lipstick samples as I am always hesitant to try new formulations of lipstick, particularly high end ones because they're not cheap and I don't like the idea of trialling at the counter.

I've really enjoyed this months Lust Have It box. It's almost Septmenber - time for some new boxes!



Sunday 26 August 2012

Sunday night window shopping from my laptop

Browsing asos can be dangerous.... hmmmm decisions, decisions!
I am loving those shoes and intrigued by the brand, Melissa, which specialises in rubber shoes. To buy or not to buy, that is the question.





1. Aimée by People Tree Organic Jersey Floral Peplum Dress $73.19
2. Barbour Elle Cardigan in Lambswool with Suedette Patches $146.30
3. River Island Foldover Satchel $56.93
4. Vivienne Westwood for Melissa Wanting Orb Ballet Flat Shoes $138.25


Thursday 23 August 2012

BB Cream Spotlight: Skin79

Left-Right: The Oriental Gold, Super+ Hot Pink, Super+ Vital Orange, Snail Nutrition, Super+ Gold

So I kind of went through this huge BB cream phase over the summer. I am annoyingly pale, which I probably elude to a bit... cos it's so frustrating! Because of this, I burn really easily. I am lucky in that I tan after a burn but I can burn in 10 minutes flat in the summer sun. So I am exceedingly cautious about sun protection. This is where BB creams come in because they are an added layer of sun protection, with more SPF than most foundations.

I feel like BB creams need no introduction, but I'll give a quick overview in case you are new to the BB cream world (particularly the Korean BB cream one). BB creams usually spout claims like moisturising, whitening, anti-wrinkle, sun protection, sebum control...etc etc. I don't find them to be an all in one product.
My skin care routine is still:
1. Cleanse
2. Moisturise (this may sometimes be a moisturising serum instead of a creamy moisturiser)
3. Sunscreen
4. BB cream

While BB creams have some skincare benefits and some SPF, I still prefer to use specialised products for this and see the BB cream as a bit of a booster.

How do Korean BB creams differ from western ones?
The only BB creams I've tried that i've bought in Australia are the two Garnier BB creams, the L'oreal Nude Magique BB cream and the L'oreal Revitalift BB cream. These 4 BB creams have totally different textures. Most are quite thin and watery. The skincare benefits are minimal to none. The sun protection is SPF15 or lower.

Korean BB creams are usually a very similar texture. They are really thick, but tend to spread easily when warmed in your fingers. They rarely come in more than 1 shade, sometimes 2 (Missha being the main exception). They are good at covering pores and smoothing out skin. They feel moisturising when you apply them but tend to set, often to a powder smooth finish. They rarely have less than SPF20. They often have a greyish tinge that settles about 5 minutes after application and "brightens" the skin.

I have a large collection of BB creams, but I own more Skin79 than any other brand. These are my favorite BB creams and there's something for everyone.

Left-Right: The Oriental Gold, Super+ Hot Pink, Super+ Vital Orange, Snail Nutrition, Super+ Gold
For reference: my skin is a little paler and more neutral than NC15

1. Skin79 The Oriental Gold SPF25 PA++
What they say:
The mysterious magic of Oriental Tea, now it invigorates the skin.

The blend of the world's finest Premium Tea and Pro-Skin Gold element turns into a bottle of BB Cream.

Our highest technology provides multi-benefit to the skin. An effective, yet mild BB cream formulated with natural Tea and Gold elements will evenly tone the skin while imparting a soft feel.

Pros:
* nice golden undertones that really warms up my skin
* moisturising
* leaves a nice satin finish - not glowy, but not totally matte
* on the higher end of coverage for a BB cream
* leaves a really smooth finish
* the big bottle of this includes a lip/cheek tint in the lid

Cons:
* only SPF25

2. Skin79 Super+ Hot Pink SPF25 PA++
What they say:
Our light weight BB Cream readily absorbs to skin, hydrating to reveal a healthy looking, fresh and natural looking hint of color.

With added sunscreen, the formula protects from the sun's UV rays SPF25/PA++, while promoting whitening, wrinkle care, and sebum control effects.

10-in-1 One Step Solution for Multiple Concerns

Pros:
* sets to a powdery finish with good oil control
* lasts all day
* reasonable coverage, will not cover red blemishes
* once it's sunk into the skin, feels very light

Cons:
* only SPF25
* has an obvious whitening effect, even on my pale skin
* makes me look pink

3. Skin79 Super+ Vital Orange SPF50+ PA+++
What they say:
The 2 reasons that make Vital BB special:

1. 5-V (Vital-V Complex)
[Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin F]
Maintains skin lively and healthy the best by containing 5 Vitamin Complex.

2. SPF50+ PA+++
Keep's skin strong and safe 365 days of protection from UVA and UVB with enhanced SPF

Pros:

* SPF50!
* highest coverage of any BB cream I have tried
* vitamin enriched formula
* one of the better matches for my skintone
* long-lasting

Cons:
* can be drying when first applied but doesn't control oil as well as Hot Pink
* for yellow toned, fair ladies only - not much colour adjustment for this one

4. Skin79 Snail Nutrition SPF45 PA+++
What they say:
KFDA 3 Functions Certification; Whitening, UV Interception SPF45 PA+++, Wrinkle Improvement.

Protecting the skin from both UV A and B, the tri-functional snail BB cream brightens the dark and dull skin tone, and maintains the skin clean and supple with its whitening and wrinkle-improving effects.

Containing 45% of the Korean Snail Secretion Filtrate, supplying sleek and lustrous texture to the skin,  preventing skin damage, and keeps skin moist and healthy by forming a moist protection layer.

With soft and moisture texture it's easily absorbed into and blends well with the skin, maintaining the skin transparent and bright for a long period of time.

Pros:
* SPF45
* easiest to blend
* sheer, luminous coverage
* very moisturising
* nice neutral colour

Cons:
* lowest coverage
* very strong florally scent
* no oil control

5. Skin79 Super+ VIP Gold SPF25 PA++
What they say:
Protects the skin with wrinkle improvement + whitening.
Turns dark and dull skin into clear skin by controlling the source.
Non-stop skin care has come true by wrinkle improvement function to maintain smooth and silky skin.

Presents Rich Moisturized Skin. Whole New Level of Moisturizing.
Presents non-oily smooth skin tone with vegetable ingredients such as Aloe Vera.

Reliable UV Protection
Can be used several times on top of makeup to protect the skin from harmful UVA and UVB at the same time.

** this is very similar to the Hot Pink version **
Pros:

* more moisturising than the Hot Pink version
* still has good oil control despite being moisturising
* not as pale and grey-ish as the Hot Pink version

Cons:
* only SPF25
* slightly less coverage than Hot Pink

You can find ingredients for all of these except the Snail Nutrition one at cosdna.


OK so there's an overview of all the different Skin79 BB creams I have. I am going to make some massive generalisations here and let you know who I think would like each of these the best. This is just a broad guideline, but I guess if I was new to korean BB creams maybe where I'd start and the branch out from there.


1. Skin79 The Oriental Gold SPF25 PA++
This one is best for dry-combinations skin types. Probably doesn't have enough oil control for the oilies.  This is a great all-rounder.

2. Skin79 Super+ Hot Pink SPF25 PA++
This is the staple of oily-normal skin types. It is the most popular of Skin79's BB creams and offers the best oil-control.

3. Skin79 Super+ Vital Orange SPF50+ PA+++
I have trouble recommending this as your first BB cream purchase because it is drying with no oil control at the same time. I like it in my arsenal due to the high SPF and the great colour match, but I wouldn't like to use it more than a couple of days in a row. Definitely not for dry skin types.

4. Skin79 Snail Nutrition SPF45 PA+++
Best for normal-dry skin wanting sheer coverage and moisture. Do not buy if you are sensitive to strong scents.

5. Skin79 Super+ VIP Gold SPF25 PA++
Another great all rounder. Best for dry-combination but I wouldn't rule it out for oily complexions, particularly for the cooler months. Not quite as smooth as the Oriental Gold but offers better oil control.


Let me know if this was helpful and if you'd like any more in depth reviews for any of these products!


Wednesday 22 August 2012

RAVE: Michel Mercier Untangle Your Day Brush


OK so I have fine hair that's bleached a bit and it is a nasty piece of work to brush. I get out of the shower and unless I've used a conditioner that is absolutely choc full of silicones, it is going to be a B-I-T-C-H to brush. The other day I was brushing my hair and trying to get out a knot when the entire spongey middle bit with the bristles flew off across the hallway. So it was off to priceline to replace yet another brush I've destroyed trying to get it through my tangly hair.

I was looking at the brushes thinking "what's the difference, these are all just damn brushes", when out of the corner of my eye I spy these fantastic bright colours. I mosey on to the end of the aisle and am confronted by these absolutely huge, colourful brushes. Say hello to Michel Mercier's Untangle Your Day detangling brush. I grabbed the gorgeous pink one, paid for it (of course) and waltzed out the door. When I got it back to work I realised the pink colour is for fine hair, I didn't even check in my excitement at buying such a fabulous pink hair brush.. ahhhh the little things. This was fortuitous as I do have fine hair.

I used this for a week at work and could no longer go back to my ordinary brush at home so I bought another one in green - for normal hair. I actually prefer the one for normal hair as it doesn't flatten my hair like the fine hair one does a bit.


I don't know how this brush is so amazing, but it just is. It glides through my hair as if there's no knots there at all. I have literally not had a knot this doesn't get through in the first swipe. For me those tough to get through knots are usually a regular occurence. I love that the brush head is large so I could probably sufficiently brush my hair in like 4 strokes.

I have nothing but love for these brushes. No downside - apart from maybe the practicality of travelling with a brush so large. But I WILL do it!

$19.99 from Priceline

How do you deal with knotty hair?

Monday 20 August 2012

Empties #1

First off - apologies for being so slack! It has been quite a while since my last post (confession). I've had a busy time at work and have been struggling to find the time to blog. It actually takes a reasonable chunk of time, which it appear I just haven't had in the past couple of weeks!

Well I'm here to rectify that, so let's start with my first empties post. I like these posts because they actually give you an idea of what people actually use regularly enough to finish them off.

Here goes....


1. Olay foaming face wash (sensitive)
I really like this cleanser. It's reasonably gentle and is super dooper at getting off makeup. I have not found a foaming cleanser that has this good a balance of being gentle, not overdrying and removing makeup completely.

Repurchase? Not at this stage. I'm trying out some fantastic, non-foaming cleansers at the moment and I'm really liking them. I may come back for this in summer though.

2. Neutrogena Ageless Intensives Deep Wrinkle Moisture SPF 20
This is a really nice daily moisturiser with SPF. On my combination skin I find it applies smoothly and sets matte. It doesn't cause me irritation and I like that I can apply as much as I want without worry of my skin getting greasy. My one gripe with this is that I find it pills under some foundations.

Repurchase? No. I'm on the hunt for something that is compatible with my favourite foundations.

3. Clinique Moisture Surge
Love this lightweight, gel moisturiser. I've talked about this moisturiser before and praised it's moisturising abilities, while being incredibly lightweight. At this time of year I tend to use it to supplement my moisturisers but in summer I sometimes use this alone. Sooooo silky to use!

Repurchase? Yes. I stocked up on this a couple of weeks ago with the Myer GWP.

4. Garnier invisiMineral deoderant
It's deoderant. I like the deoderant and thinks it's functional. Didn't like this scent.

Repurchase? No.

5. Fairy Drops waterproof mascara
I don't remember the exact name for this mascara and everything on the tube is in Japanese! It's the one with the half-moon wand with balls on it. If that makes sense to anyone! It is a great volumising, fibre mascara that is amazingly waterproof. I really enjoy this and might try and pick this up when summer comes around again. I replaced this with a L'oreal waterproof mascara that I am not enjoying. Oh and the packaging is divine.

Repurchase? Maybe.

6. Soap and Glory Wash Your Hands of It (handwash)
I bought this hand soap in a super cute sink-side set with matching hand cream. The Soap and Glory Hand Food hand cream is one of my favorites and I love having a pump on my sink top. The matching soap smells delicious and doesn't dry my hands out. I haven't seen this sold seperately. Maybe I'll be able to find it when I go to london in October.

Repurchase? If I can find it.

7. Avene Eau Thermale
It's water in a can. I like misting myself, it's refreshing and tones down powder on my face.

Repurchase? If I see it on special.

8. Toni & Guy Firm Hold Hairspray
This is my travel hairspray because it's in such a cute little bottle. It's nothing special but there's nothing wrong with it either. It's a medium hold that isn't flaky.

Repurchase? Nuh I might get a little travel Tresemme.

9. Klorane Dry Shampoo
Do not want. It smells funky. It barely does anything. It's expensive.

Repurchase? No.

10. Neutrogena Extra Gentle Cleanser
I love this cleanser. It's super gentle and sooo nice and creamy. When my skin is dry and angry, this stuff is great. It's cheap. I love the pump. My only little niggle is my T-zone gets super oily when I use this. Ahhh the joys of combination skin. Happy face, oily nose.

Repurchase? No, because I have found something similar without the oily T-zone problem.
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