Empties! March 2016

Hey there! I'm getting rid of more empty stuff and sharing my thoughts as per usual...

Skin care

Jurlique Purely White Skin Brightening Cleanser (80g/2.8 oz) - I bought this tube Duty-Free on my way to Singapore last year because I'd forgotten to pack a cleanser so decided to splash out on a luxe one. This foaming cleanser did feel quite velvety and luxurious but I didn't notice any significant brightening effect and Jurlique is off my purchase list these days.

SODA & Co Lip Balm (Orange Splash)* CF - These little balm pots are so much fun and I liked the orange/cocoa scent of this one.  I have a cocoa pot to get through and I'll consider getting some more in future once I dwindle my backlog a bit.  The formula is lightweight and melts upon touch with the fingertips so it's like applying melted butter to the lips.

Hand and body care

Bath & BodyWorks Maui Shea & Vitamin E Shower Gel (88ml/3 fl.oz) - These B & BW products were another old vacation purchase tucked away for a rainy day which finally came as I work through my stash of non CF products.  The shower gel lasted quite a while as I didn't need to use much to get a healthy soft lather and I enjoyed the summery floral scent.

Bath & BodyWorks Maui Shea & Vitamin E Body Lotion (88ml/3 fl.oz) - This was a nice consistency for a body lotion as it was easy to rub in yet substantial enough to provide lasting moisture for my skin.

Avon Nail Experts Rose Cuticle Balm (11.5g/0.406 oz) - This cuticle balm has been long discontinued so I won't go on about it.  It did the trick and smelt like - guess what? - roses!

Crabtree & Evelyn La Source Hand Therapy (25g/0.9 oz) -  I enjoyed the summery marine scent of this rich hand cream.

Hair care 

Moroccanoil Clarify Clarifying Shampoo (250ml/8.5 fl.oz) CF - Damn I love this shampoo! Not just because it deep cleanses buildup from my hair but because the scent is AMAZING! Have Moroccanoil thought to bring out a fragrance because if they haven't they need to! I will definitely buy this again.

Cosmetics

My progressive tally in my 2016 Makeup Use Up is increasing oh so slowly:

8) Max Factor Masterpiece Glamour Extensions 3-in-1 Volumising Mascara (Black)* - Damn I wish this was a CF product because this has been my favourite mascara in recent times. It volumized and defined my lashes and the reverse cone-shaped brush was perfect for getting right down to the base of the lashes for separation and creating a fan-like effect. Sad. So sad.

9) Tom Ford Concealing Pen (02 Light Medium) - This was so expensive for such a meh product.  Would not repurchase even if I could. 

10) Rimmel Colour Show Off Lipstick (110 Pink Gossip) - This bright pink matte lippy is now discontinued.

I'm done and dusted for another month!

(Products marked * were provided for my consideration.  All comments and opinions are my own.)

Empties! February 2016

I'm later than usual so here we go...

Skin care

La Clinica Anti Ageing Stem Cell Complex 3 Day Cream (50ml/1.76 fl.oz)* CF - This made my skin feel firmer immediately after applying and I liked the non-greasy matte finish which provided an excellent non-slip base for makeup.

The Body Shop Camomile Waterproof Eye & Lip Make-Up Remover (150ml/5.0 fl.oz) CF - This is now one of my favourite removers as it's as soothing and refreshing as water but it shifts the most stubborn waterproof eye makeup. 

Sukin Micellar Cleansing Water (250ml/8.46 fl.oz) CF/Vegan - I liked this but didn't love it as it felt a bit astringent rather than refreshing on my skin.

NIVEA Vanilla & Macadamia Lip Butter (19ml)* - This used to be one of my favourite thick, emollient (and yummy) lip balms for overnight use but sadly I won't be able to buy any more until it's CF.

Hand and body care

Sally Hansen Insta-Dri Top Coat (13.3ml/0.45 fl.oz) - Another ex-favourite off my list.  This did a great job of quickly sealing in my manicures but I'm switching back to China Glaze for now.

L'Occitane Karite Rose Shea Butter Hand Cream (30ml/1 oz) - I feel a bit guilty because this was a magazine freebie from earlier this year.  I still have a few more backups lurking around as I used to stockpile this stuff because it's so good *cries*.

Avon Foot Works Cracked Heel Relief Cream (100ml) - I haven't bought this in over a year but I still have 2 tubes left.  I mainly use it in the warmer months to keep my heels silky soft and prevent cracking. No repurchases after that though.

Crabtree & Evelyn Lily Gift Set (Bath & Shower Gel, Body Lotion, Body Cream, Fragranced Soap) - This was a set I received as a Christmas gift over a year ago and it's taken me so long to get through my backlog and use it (along with the soap not shown for obvious reasons).  The quality was typically good as C & E products are but the scent was a standard floral so I didn't hate it or love it. 

Sukin BioNatural Skin Oil (60ml/2.03 fl. oz)* CF/Vegan - This is a really nice body oil and so easy and quick for an after-shower moisturiser to replenish and restore youthful silkiness to the skin.  I can see myself buying more because it lasts ages and is very affordable too.

Rexona Clinical Protection Summer Strength Antiperspirant Deodorant (45ml/48 g)* - It worked very well as an antiperspirant but not so well as a deodorant. The search continues...

Hair care

Schwarzkopf Extra Care BB 11 in 1 Hair Beautifier (100ml)* - I actually really liked this as a detangler and softener for my hair as it did the trick without weighing down my fine hair at all and protected it from any hairdryer-induced frizzies.  Not a bad drugstore hair care product but this was the last of my non-CF hair products.

Cosmetics

I'm back counting my progressive tally in my 2016 Makeup Use Up:

5) L'Oreal Miss Manga Mega Volume Mascara (Black)* - Some people don't like the flexible tapered brush but it was my friend once I got the hang of it and the volumising formula was great too for creating big lashes with minimal coats. Unfortunately not CF.

6) Benefit Stay Don't Stray Primer (Light/Medium) - Don't be fooled by the sample sized tube because this primer took months to finish.  It was a great brightening base for eye makeup and anchored it in place but Benefit aren't CF so this won't be on my repurchase list. 

7) Face Of Australia Eye Pencil (Brown) - Face of Australia used to be CCF accredited but sadly are no longer and I can't be sure of their CF status.  The pencil?  It was reasonably creamy and smudgeproof but I have a lot of dark brown backups in my collection. 

Now I'm off to toss out all the trash!

(Products marked * were provided for my consideration.  All comments and opinions are my own.)

January's farewelled products (and beauty diet update)

 

I was determined to get this post done before it got too close to March!  As I always promise I'm going to try and keep it brief because there are enough products to make this a lengthy tome already...

 

Skin care

 

1) The Face Shop Green Tea Sheet Mask - I'm back with those sheet masks this year although I must admit I've not been pampering myself too much lately.  This hydrating mask was a little on the sticky side and my skin felt tacky afterwards.  Not a favourite - I won't repurchase - but not huge loss at 3AUD.

2) The Face Shop Pearl Essential Mask Sheet - "for smooth and light absorption and intensive efficacy of pearl".  My Googling tells me pearl powder is used in skincare to improve the appearance and rejuvenate the skin. Fractionally more expensive at 5AUD but a better feeling mask and I would repurchase. 

3) Nivea Pure & Natural Facial Cleansing Wipes (25 wipes) - These new Nivea wipes are freshly scented and free from parabens, silicones, colourants, mineral oils and alcohol.  They left my skin feeling clean and refreshed and not dry or tight in any way afterwards.  I found these a nice summer choice because they are so fresh! 

 

 

4) Pond's Flawless White Deep Whitening Facial Foam (100g) - I've learned not to expect miracles from whitening products but it doesn't stop me from trying the variations out there.  Needless to say the whitening properties of this cleanser were nothing to rave about but aside from that it was a nice foaming cleanser.  The teeniest bit squeezed into the palm of my hand lathered up really well and it was gentle and non-drying.  If you don't care about the "whitening" aspect and enjoy a rich foaming cleanser then this is just fine for the in-shower cleanse.

 

5) Face of Australia Gentle Make-Up Remover (125ml/4.23 fl.oz) - I tried this as another variation of my favourite dual-phase, shake up makeup removers.  I found it just as effective as any on the market, and it didn't sting or irritate my eyes so I've repurchased.  For those of you who are interested this is another oil free, and paraben free product.

 

6) Avon Anew Reversalist Night Renewal Cream (50g) - I'm trying to be more religious about my nightly skincare routine so night creams are making more of a regular appearance.  I really enjoyed this night cream - it felt rich enough to be moisturising but not too rich so not suffocating or greasy. It has a lovely "expensive" scent too and elegantly packaged in its heavy glass jar this is a bit of a luxury product. 



 

Hand and body care

 

7)  Natio Wellness Hand Wash (240ml/8.1fl.oz) - This gentle chamomile, pomegranate and wheatgerm enriched hand wash is one of my favourites.  It doesn't irritate my eczema afflicted hands and the scent is soft and fruity without being cloyingly sweet.  The one problem is the pump bottle which can leak product at the neck of the bottle and get a bit messy - funnily enough I didn't notice this problem until someone else brought it to my attention and then of course it started to annoy me... Still, I do love the product itself and I'd decant it into a different bottle if it really drove me crazy!

 

8) OPI Expert Touch Lacquer Remover (120ml/4 fl.oz) -  This is the strongest formula in the OPI remover line (suitable for gel removal) and I'm happy to continue using it this year.  At the moment I'm down to weekly manicures so it's not too drying and it removes my polish quickly.

 

9) Avon Foot Works Healthy Cracked Heel Relief Cream (100ml) - No I don't suffer from cracked heels but I believe regular use of this cream is the reason why.  I have a backup in use already.

 

Cosmetics

 

This is the most exciting part of the post for me because it's my beauty diet update and I'm out of the starting gate! Two makeup empties means I could go shopping if I wanted for my first luxe makeup item but I've got something specific in mind which doesn't release until March.

Logically I'll do these updates as part of my monthly empties to save boring you - more immediate updates are on Instagram if you want to know exactly when I'm finishing up things. Along for the ride are Anissa and Norlin so check out their blogs too to see how they're progressing! I know Anissa has a massive makeup destash underway and I'm impressed with her fearlessness!

 

10) Bourjois Volume Glamour Ultra Curl Mascara - I've raved about this mascara and I do love just how creamy and smooth it feels when I apply it - This mascara just glides on.  No clumps, just thick and soft lashes with this one. 

 

11) MAC Lip Glass (Zazoom) - I don't really know why I persisted with this gloss because it was the least practical, chunky-glitter filled concoction.  Never fear cos this was an old LE so it can't terrify any of you any more! It's DONE now and that's my two makeup empties for this month.

 

Until next time!

 

 

August's farewelled products (2013 edition)

Continuing with my voracious beauty consumption (and helped along by travel sizes and samples) I finished a heck of a lot of products in August! I hope you're not in a rush to get through this post.  Seriously, I was thinking of just going through all of the products with a quick yay or nay this time...

 

Skin care

75) & 76) Sasatinnie Rose Makeup Remover Wipes for Sensitive Skin (10 wipes) - Simply because of the small number of wipes in the packs I got through two packs in August. I haven't changed my mind about these wipes since last month - I still love them for their gentle effective makeup removal, the lovely rose scent and they way they leave my skin feeling lightly moisturised afterwards.  I have two packs left but I'm alternating with another brand at the moment.

77) BE Fresh Make-Up Remover Wipes With Cucumber (25 wipes) - This pack of wipes was hanging around open from before my overseas vacay so I only had a few left to finish off.   BE is a Priceline Australia skincare brand and the wipes are the first products I've tried in the line.  They're alcohol free, contain aloe and do the expected gentle but effective job of removing my makeup.  They have a good texture and feel wet enough to do a thorough job.  There are a few other varieties in the line so I think I'll take a further look.

78) Cyber Colors Gentle Eye Makeup Remover (59ml/2oz.) - I bought two bottles of this little dual-phase remover from Sasa in Hong Kong.  It's yet another dual-phase remover in an endless selection of the same - these removers are all interchangeable which is fine because I love them as long as the price is right! Would I buy it again? Sure because it was inexpensive and performs with the same effectiveness as the other brands I've tried in removing all kinds of makeup, including waterproof.

79) Biore Release Steam Activated Cleanser (147ml) - I got this mint-infused, 'steam activated', oil-free cleansing gel free with a local magazine.  The invigorating (overpowering) menthol and the steam activated cleansing beads are supposed to deeply penetrate and scream CLEAN! skin in the daily shower.  It did a good job of waking my skin up in the morning but I did find it a little too fresh and nasal-clearing for me.  This would be a better choice for those with oilier skin (and less sensitive nasal passages) than mine.

80) Skinlite Cucumber Essence Mask - I'm just getting into sheet masks and this mask was the first I tried from my Hong Kong bundle.  I don't know that I can effectively rate these yet because I am such a newbie so I'm not sure what my expectations should be!  This mask was enriched with Vitamin E, Phyto Collagen, and Cucumber extract and promised to soften skin texture and relax taut and dry skin after 15 to 20 minutes of use.  I found the mask's serum felt a little tacky on the skin even after I patted it into my face but I did wake up with soft skin the next day! These masks are an inexpensive fun way for a little enforced relaxation and a little extra skin pampering.  Next mask please!

81) YSL Forever Youth Liberator Serum (30ml/1 fl.oz) - A rare skincare indulgence for me these days! I figure serum and moisturisers are a good area to splurge on quality ingredients if I'm going to indulge so...  This serum was quite a watery formula so it absorbed well and made my skin feel instantly refreshed.  It claims to make skin look more luminous, smoother, firmer and more plump, reducing the appearance of wrinkles - everything this little middle-aged duck needs really!  It certainly did make my skin feel smooth and plumped so I'd probably buy this serum again when my wallet can justify it. 

82) L'Oreal White Perfect Laser Anti-Spot Brightening Essence (5ml) - I think skincare essences are an alternative to serums because they are applied under moisturiser.  In any case this is the first essence I've tried.  5mls went a long way and I got a week's worth of use out of the tiny sample tube.  It was enough to pique my interest too because I loved how smooth it made my skin feel and any whitening product takes more prolonged use to see real results in reducing pigmentation.  Trouble is the White Perfect Laser range isn't available in Australia! Online shopping here I go?...

83) Nivea Light Feel Daily Face Veil Lotion SPF30 (50ml) - I was using this as my everyday moisturiser/sunscreen overseas and whilst it was okay - and definitely effective as SPF protection - I don't know that it felt light enough for me as my skin did appear a little slick, more so than dewy.  At the drugstore pay point I prefer my good old Neutrogena which I've reverted to using at the moment.

84) Natio Ageless Firming Night Cream (45g/1.5oz) - I don't wear night cream every night so this tub lasted a very long time.  The goodies in it are Vitamin C, organic rosehip and evening primrose and it definitely did make my skin feel firmer without feeling greasy.  Natio is a super affordable natural skincare option I enjoy using so I wouldn't hesitate to buy more in future.

85) La Roche-Posay Lipikar Baume AP Lipid Repleneshing Body Balm (7ml/0.2 fl.oz.) - I turned to a stash of samples in desperation when I had a winter flare-up of eczema on my neck and wrists.  I used five of these anti-scratching balm sachets and the thick unscented balm instantly soothed my prickly itchy skin.  I've now bought a massive full sized pump bottle of the stuff for skincare emergencies.  'Nuff' said.

86) La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Intense Soothing Care (5ml) - This is meant to soothe and relieve dry facial skin but, yup, I used five samples of this on my limbs too! Naughty me! Means I can't tell you what this feels like on the face but it certainly felt wonderful on my body.  Soothing and very well absorbed and left my skin feeling silky.  I'll infer from that it would probably feel good on my face too if I needed extra moisture!

87) Avon Anew Platinum Night Cream (1g) - I used this sample for a single application between jars of night cream.  I remember it made my skin feel velvety soft and absorbed well but I can't say anything beyond that.  It's targeted at the more mature market with its claims of restoring the look of sagging skin.  Maybe if my jowls start driving me to distraction I might just buy a jar to really road test it, hmm?

88) Benefit Triple Performing Sheer Oil-Free Facial Emulsion SPF 15 (sample) - This is triple performing because it "hydrates, protects and comforts..." the skin. I used this sample for a few days and really loved how it felt, and I also loved the non-greasy finish it left on my skin.  If only the SPF were higher I would snap this up for a summertime facial moisturizer.

Hand and body care

89) QV Flare Up Wash (150ml) - This is the second bottle I've finished recently as a hand wash. See my earlier empties review here.

 

90) Bandi Purity Nail Polish Remover (120ml) - I bought this Korean (Hello! It mentions Gangnam on the bottle!) green tea/jasmine scented polish remover from Bonjour in Hong Kong.  It did a good enough job of removing my nail polish, had a great spill-proof design, and I enjoyed the novelty of the scent! Gangnam style indeed!

 

91) Bath & BodyWorks Warm Vanilla Sugar Shower Gel (59 ml/2 fl.oz.) - I was obsessed with this shower gel!  The vanilla scent was delicious without being overly sweet and the lather was so rich and soft.  Love it! LOVE IT!! If anyone wants to send me some more across the seas I will be eternally grateful - I'm already eternally grateful to Liz for introducing me to this shower delight!

 

92) OPI Avojuice Ginger Lily Hand & Body Lotion (30 ml/ 1 fl.oz.) - I've used these little bottles before and find the avocado oil formula to be incredibly moisturizing and well absorbed.  I used this as an overall body moisturizer.  The ginger lily scent was a little sweet for my taste but not overpowering.

 

93) OPI Avojuice Cran & Berry Hand & Body Lotion (30 ml/ 1 fl.oz.) - Ditto my last comment. Again the scent was a little sweet.

Hair care

 

 94) John Frieda Luxurious Volume Shampoo (44 ml/1.5 fl.oz.) - I don't normally review shampoo and conditioner because I use the same salon line month in month out but these were free with a magazine and were going to transform my fine hair right?  I liked the colourless gel shampoo formula and this cleansed my hair without leaving it feeling matted as some more detergent-like shampoos can do.  Nice soft floral scent too.

 

95) John Frieda Luxurious Volume Conditioner (44 ml/1.5 fl.oz.) - This was a thick white cream conditioner which while rich, rinsed out well, and left my hair feeling conditioned without being weighed down or limp. 

96) John Frieda Luxurious Volume Fine to Full Blowout Spray (30ml) - I'm actually more keen on trying out John Frieda's Root Booster Blow-Dry Lotion from the Luxurious Volume line because it is meant to thicken the hair strands but this one was the freebie.  I sprayed a few pumps over towel-dried hair and combed it through.  I liked the lack of stickiness and it did keep my very relaxed blow-dry in place.  I'm not a huge one for elaborate styles (my emphasis is on drying more than styling!) so I still want to try the Root Booster just to get more volume and thickness out of my no-fuss hair. 

 

Cosmetics

 

97) Rimmel Lasting Finish Lipstick (240 Undressed) - I've raved about Rimmel's lipsticks before and Undressed is my perfect caramel-beige nude. The Lasting Finish lippies are very pigmented and long lasting and as a lipstick lover I highly recommend them.  Honestly, these lipsticks are such good value at under 10AUD! 

 

 



Fragrance

 

98) L'Occitane Voyage En Mediterranee - Labdanum (EDP 75ml) - I am so genuinely sad to have finished this LE fragrance.  Well - almost finished.  There's one or two applications left in the bottom of the bottle I can't quite get to.  I'm going to have my husband prise open the top of the bottle because I absolutely must have the last few drops. Notes: Citrus fruits and spices, Labdanum (a woody shrub with a warm amber scent), benzoin, vanilla.

 

99) Tom Ford Sahara Noir (EDP 5ml) - This is a strange one and I always knew it was going to polarize opinions.  I grew to like it but my husband strongly disliked the rather smoky scent.  I remember it was described as an ode to incense but it more closely reminds me of wood fire.  Top notes:  "Bitter orange, Levantine cypress and cistus essence Orpur®".  Middle notes:  "Frankincence essence Orpur®, cinnamon, cool papyrus extract, rose absolute from Morocco and Egyptian jasmin with honeyed and animalic shades of beeswax from Burma".  Base notes:  "Labdanum absolute and ambreinol (an intense natural labdanum fraction), cedar, frankincense resin, benzoin, vanilla, oud and balsams".

 



And that's all for this month folks! 



May's farewelled products (2013 edition)

So what did I finish up this month?  What were my loves, likes, loathes?  Read on...

Skin care

41) Maybelline City Rescue Total Clean! Express Eye & Lip Makeup Remover (70ml) - So this is the new updated remover from Maybelline.  The notable differences are: the dual-phase liquid is now colourless and the bottle is now a teeny 70ml so I'm going to easily go through a bottle a month (I guess 2 for 1 Maybelline purchases will be a no-brainer!) Aside from that the product seems to be basically the same:  A dual-phase formula you shake up then sweep over the lids and lashes to remove makeup - yes, even waterproof makeup - with a sweep of a soaked cotton pad.  Because of the travel-friendly size and drugstore price I'm happy enough to stick with this for now.

42) Avon Anew Reversalist Renewal Serum (30ml) - After being seduced by a sample tube of this stuff over a year ago, I bought a full-sized bottle on sale.  Suitable for 40+ skin this serum claims to reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles and skin discolouration.  I liked how soft and velvety this felt when applying and how my skin immediately felt super-soft to the touch.  I also noticed some minor reduction in my pigmentation over time but I don't know that I noticed any wrinkle reduction.  To tell you the truth I try never to get that close - I don't fancy checking out my fine wrinkles! What I didn't like was the strange pump dispenser which threatened to break my nails and how I had no way of guaging just how much was left in the bottle until it ran out! I think I'll wait for another sale before I buy another one of these.

43) Yes to Carrots C Me Smile Lip Butter (Melon) - I loved this little tube of lip balm! I used it as my nightly lip treatment and it was very moisturising without being overly slick or greasy on my lips.  This little 4.25g tube lasted me months too.  Other pluses?  This is certified 95% organic and is paraben free. 

44) Hydratherapy Q10 Replenishing Cleansing Wipes (25 wipes) - I'd never heard of this brand when I spotted this pack of wipes to try.  They claim to hydrate the skin as they remove makeup.  The wipes were a good size, nicely textured so I could feel them cleansing my skin, and nice and wet with the alcohol and oil free cleanser.  One wipe was easily enough to cleanse my entire face. I really liked the fresh slightly citrus scent too and my skin definitely felt moisturized afterward.  At around $5AUD a pack I would definitely repurchase these.

Hand and body care

45) MOR Marshmallow Body Butter - This strange little pink tub was a discount purchase I think.  Anyway I've been going through a lot of small bottles, tubs and sample sachets of body moisturizers lately and this is one of those.  The body butter is pungently strong with MOR's marshmallow (musk candy) scent so I used it occasionally, and sparingly on my knees and elbows.  It's a very thick formula but very well absorbed and it did a decent job of softening the extra-dry bits.  However...I just can't handle the strength of the scent which seemed to be much stronger than the vial of Marshmallow fragrance oil I have!  I'm relieved to see it go.

46) Sportsgirl Hands Down Moisturising Hand Creme (60ml/2.02 fl.oz) - Another disappointing discount purchase.  I bought this reduced from $7.95 to $1.95 and the reason it was discounted became apparent to me very quickly!  For a hand cream this had the potential to make a good body lotion - it was soooo watery to the point of running out of the tube.  I had to tilt the tube upwards to avoid pouring this milky lotion everywhere. That drove me crazy!  On the plus side I did like the soft vanilla fragrance.  Also it did a reasonable job of moisturising my hands, although it did wash away very easily so I had to reapply constantly.

47) OPI Original Nail Envy (15ml/0.5 fl.oz) - My go-to nail strengthener and base coat.  My father also swears by the matte version for his crumbly, splitting nails.

48) Kiehl's Creme de Corps (5ml/0.17 fl.oz sample) - I'm sure I'm preaching to the converted out there but this is the first time I've tried Kiehl's famed body moisturizer and I loved it! It was thick but instantly absorbed, left my skin feeling soft and not at all greasy and there's no perfume to fight with whatever fragrance you feel like wearing.  I'll definitely treat myself to some of this when I clear my current backlog!

Hair care

49) John Frieda Luxurious Volume Lavish Lift Root Booster (29ml/ 1 fl.oz travel size) - Another old sample I found lurking and I wish I'd saved this for my upcoming trip. It gave my hair soft volume and I liked the expensive salon product scent.  After returning to my usual L'Oreal thickening spray I can say I prefer John Frieda so I'll be purchasing the full size product in future.

Cosmetics

50) Christian Dior Diorshow Mascara - After too many months of use it was simply time to go for this mascara.  It remains one of my favourites as it beautifully separates and coats the individual lashes.  No clumping with this one right up to the end!

51) Essence Shimmer Effect Eyeshadow (Cappucino, Please!) - I absolutely adored this pretty shimmery beige eyeshadow and I used it as my MAC Shroom backup because it was such a close dupe.  See my original comparison post here.

Until next month!

February's farewelled products (2013 edition)

It's a little late coming but these are the products I said goodbye to last month. Without further ado...

Skin care

8) Olay Regenerist Thermal Skin Polisher (125ml) - Once I realized this wasn't a daily cleanser (I suffered from a sensitive skin episode from OVER exfoliating!) and used it a few times a week I found this was really effective in smoothing my skin.  The polish feels warm on the skin once it's activated with water and the micro-crystal granules do the physical exfoliation.  Good stuff - as long as you don't use it every day!

9) Natio Lift Skin Firming Serum (50ml/1.6 fl.oz) - I generally love Natio's products so I'm a little sad that I was underwhelmed by this serum.  It was a rather watery formula which would literally run off my skin if I wasn't quick enough to rub it in.  I can't say I noticed it did anything magical for my skin either other than add a little extra moisture.  I'm glad I picked this up at last year's warehouse sale and didn't pay full price.

10) Natio Facial Cleansing Gel (100g/3.52oz) - OK, I didn't love the serum but I did love this gentle cleanser.  It's a very refreshing green tea and cucumber gel that smelt fresh, gently cleansed the skin and rinsed off in an instant.  This was a lovely alternative to my preferred foaming cleansers and as it's pH neutral it can be used morning, noon and night - not literally of course! Well, morning and night anyway.

11) Missha The Style Lip & Eye Makeup Remover (100ml approx.) - I bought this a few months ago when I last stepped into a Missha store.  It's the same gentle, non stinging, dual-phase remover that I'm devoted to (shake it up, soak a cotton pad and gently wipe off waterproof eye makeup or long lasting lip makeup) and it was in a nifty spill-proof bottle.  I would certainly use this again.

12) Swisspers Naturals Aloe Skin Perfecting Facial Cleansing Wipes (25 wipes) - As far as wipes go these ticked all the boxes:  not too small, softly textured cloths with just enough product to cleanse thoroughly, and they were enriched with aloe vera so my skin felt comfortably clean afterward with no need to add any moisturizer.  And yes the packaging has that fantastic snap fastening opening to keep the wipes from drying out! 

 Hand and body care

13) Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Eventone Age Spot Hand Cream (60g) - I loved this rich hand cream and would definitely repurchase for its added SPF protection and skin brightening properties (see my original review here).

14) OPI Original Polish Remover (120ml - 4 fl.oz) - the only usual suspect this month. I average a bottle of this remover a month.

15) Avon Foot Works Cracked Heel Relief Cream (100g) - This humble but wonderful cream prevents my heels from becoming ashy or cracking.  I use it religiously every day during the warmer months and it keeps my heels looking soft and youthful with its concoction of ingredients including glycerin, canola oil(!), lactic acid and stearic acid.  A tube seems to last an eternity too so it's a great value product - although I do tend to snap these up whenever Avon does a 2 for 1 deal!

16) Crabtree & Evelyn Pomegranate, Argan & Grapeseed Deep Cleansing Hand Wash (250ml/8.5fl.oz) - I bought this for the most frivolous reason:  the satiny, ruby red hand wash looked so pretty and I just wanted to display it on my bathroom vanity! Pretty, yes, but also pretty harsh on my skin unfortunately and I found the exfoliating seedy granules a little too deep cleaning for my sensitive skin. I also had a beef with the pump packaging because I couldn't get the last dregs out of the bottle without watering it down. Not a repurchase for me.

Fragrance

17) Prada L'Eau Ambree EDP (80ml/2.7fl.oz) - This smoked glass bottle contained one my favourite scents and I'm sure I'll buy it again as it has such a classic air about it - I keep opening the cap to smell the fragrance as I write this.  The top notes are Cedrat Lemon, Mandarin and Neroli;  middle notes are Benzoin, May Rose and Gardenia; base notes are Amber blended with Patchouli, Vanilla and Opoponax.

 That's it for this month!

 

REVIEW: October's farewelled products

It probably sounds crazy but every time I have a few days off from work it seems like I have less time for the quieter pastimes like blogging - there's just way too much other stuff to do with the family!  We're nearing the end of a 4 day long weekend down here, hence my mini absence and the explanation for the lateness of the empties post.  Well, here it is now and I've surprised myself again with the amount of products I managed to finish over the past month...

Skin care

101) Neutrogena Healthy Defence Daily Moisturiser SPF 30+ (40ml)

This is my favourite facial sunscreen because it's light enough to go over my usual moisturiser without leaving my face feeling like an oil slick.  For my original review click here.

102) Maybelline Express Care Eye & Lip Makeup Remover (90ml)

Out of curiousity (and just so I don't rest on my beauty laurels) I'm currently trying out another product but I already know I'll return to this budget makeup remover.  See my original review here. 

103) Avene Eau Thermale Extremely Gentle Cleanser (200ml)

This soothing cleanser saved my skin from burning, raw irritation (here) so I can only sing its praises too.  I would certainly repurchase if my skin has another bout of sensitivity. 

104) Yes To Cucumbers Soothing Hypoallergenic Facial Towelettes (30 towelettes)

While I liked the cucumber and aloe scent I didn't love these wipes as much as I'd expected to because my skin actually felt a slightly tight and tingly after using them and I had to use a night cream afterwards.  I probably won't repurchase.

105) Missha M Signature Real Complete B.B Cream Cleansing Tissue (sample pack)

I have no idea what the ingredients are in these wipes because it's all written in Korean!  Yes, these wipes are made of delicate tissue, rather finer than the usual thicker material and they have a rather unusual, albeit not unpleasant scent about them.  They gently wiped away my makeup and I didn't feel tight after using them so that's a plus.  I have no idea on price etc after searching online so I'm a bit up in the air as to whether I'd actually go to the effort of buying a pack!

Hand and body care

106) OPI Nail Lacquer (Kalahari Khaki)

This was my first ever bottle of OPI polish so I feel a bit sad about getting rid of it.  It was used just about all the way to the bottom of the bottle so I can't complain about that!

107) OPI Original Polish Remover ( 120ml/4fl.oz)

My ninth bottle for the year. 

108) Natio Lavender and Rosemary Hand and Nail Cream (75ml/2.5fl.oz)

Natio is one of my favourite local skin care brands and this product was another winner for me. I loved the natural oil scent of this hand cream and how well it absorbed into my skin.  The 75ml tube is a good size for the handbag too so I would easily repurchase this one!

 

109) L'Occitane Ultra Rich Shower Cream with 5% Shea Butter (250ml/8.4 fl.oz) 

Oh how I looooved this stuff - so divinely creamy on my skin in the shower, and it has that wonderfully slightly nutty scent about it! Damn shame about the price cos I hate the idea of washing $30AUD of product so quickly down the drain.  I tried to make it last as long as possible by alternating with my Cetaphil cleanser so it took me a couple of months to finish, but still I'd hesitate before buying it - until I feel like another skin care splurge anyway (Gah!) 

 

110) Dove Silky Nourishment Body Cream (300ml)

The only criticism I have about this fluffy, instantly absorbed and divinely scented body cream is that it doesn't also come in a tube so it doesn't travel well - a shame because I'd love to take this budget beauty everywhere! A definite repurchase.  My full review is here.  

 

Cosmetics

111) Essence Silky Touch Blush (10 adorable)
I actually finished a blush pan! Woo-hoo! I wore this little blush almost everyday to work because it was such a soft, natural shade for me. It did need a touch up after lunch but for a product which costs a mere few dollars that is not much of a complaint really. The only reason I won't repurchase is I have "magically" accumulated quite a few blushes over the past year or so. For full review and swatches click here.

112) YSL Touche Eclat (Sample)
Using this illuminating concealer again reminded me why I'd used it for so many years - it's actually pretty good as a multi-tasker as it brightened my under eye area and provided enough coverage for areas with light redness. Ultimately the problem is the price - At $55AUD a tube this is enough to pay for three of my Maybelline Dream Lumi Touch highlighting concealers! Granted the Maybelline's not packaged in a gorgeous gilt tube but it-does-the-job. Maybe next time I travel overseas I'll consider the YSL as a duty-free indulgence but for now I'm happy doing without.

 

Fragrance

113) Herve Leger Femme EDP (50ml)
I don't normally buy my fragrance from Avon but this one wasn't too bad, although perhaps a little too sugary sweet for me to wear every day.  It's a woody-floral fragrance with notes of "...Chinese Magnolia, Sicilian pink grapefruit, orange blossom, honeywood, hot benzoin tears (what?!?), cypress and vanilla." In terms of the packaging I do like the bandage bottle design which is synonymous with Herve Leger.

So, that's it for another month of beauty consumption!

Vita :) 
 

Avon: Sequinned Turquoise

Hello again,

I'm under the weather today - I managed to catch the dreaded cold that's been lurking around the house the past week.  I won't bore you with the symptoms and the general misery, rather than that I'm going to share the fun mani that graced my fingertips for a special occasion...

I wanted to wear something a little special for the Melbourne blogger meet and greet lunch yesterday so I glammed up with one of my new Avon polishes.  I applied a single coat of Avon's Sequinned Turquoise to add a bit of extra sparkle to L'Oreal's Magic Croisette and it zhushed up my mani just nicely thank you very much!  Sequinned Turquoise is a stunning mix of silver flecks in a dark turquoise base.  It can be worn alone but I think it stars as a layering polish.  Here are lots of pictures...

Outdoors cloudy conditions.  Even clouds can't obscure the beauty...

Sunlight

Lamplight

That's all for now.

Vita :)

Avon: Violetta Sparkle

 Another week and yet another layering post -

I was originally planning to layer Violetta Sparkle over a black base but decided it would work just as well over the deliciously vibrant purple Spring Break from my last NOTD post.  In my original haul swatches (here) I'd got the impression this polish was quite sheer but the coverage surprised me when I layered it over  Spring Break.  Violetta Sparkle turned the volume down quite a bit so I was left with a darker, more subdued finish than what I was expecting and to be honest the base was completely disguised.  This looks like aubergine!  Still loving the gold sparkle though.

All pictures were snapped outdoors in partial sun...

That's all for tonight!

Vita :)