30 July 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: VTECH SPIN AND LEARN COLOURS TORCH

I don't know what it is with little kids and lights. They see a light switch and they just have to touch it, don't they. And the household torches, carefully located in drawers throughout the house, just in case of a power cut, are never safe either. Well, at least not with our 3 year old - while we have now, finally, stopped him from constantly turning lights on and off, he is still obsessed with torches. So when I came across the VTech Spin & Learn Colours Torch, I knew it would be a massive hit, with both him, and soon also with his little 14 month little brother. 


But actually, the torch is intended for kids aged 18-36 months, but that hasn't stopped the 37 month old from falling in love with it since it was given to him. He simply carries it around everywhere, just in case he needs the light, to see if any toys have been pushed under the couch, or he cannot find a specific other toy in the toy basket - even in the middle of the day!

At his age, he is naturally already beyond benefiting from a lot of the features of the torch, but they will soon be a very valuable learning tool for little brother who is loving the different coloured lights, sounds and songs.

The Spin & Learn Colours Torch glows with six different colours and plays fun songs and music ,in fact it has over 70 different songs, melodies, sounds and phrases, so I constantly keep hearing some I haven't heard before as they boys are playing with the torch.



As you turn the ring around the light, it introduces animals so you can learn about them, and it glows in the different colours. You can also learn about colours and letters so you can learn the alphabet and how to count - and of course the fun phrases and music that encourages imitative play.

Combined all these features help with: 

  • Language Development by introducing age-appropriate vocabulary through fun phrases and sing-along songs to promote language development 
  • Sensory Development by playing fun sounds, music, sing-along songs, flashing lights and colourful objects that provide auditory and visual stimulation 
  • Imitative Play as the real working torch encourages imitative play 
  • Motor Skills as pressing the buttons promotes fine motor skills development and turning the dial promotes gross motor skills development. 

The torch (thankfully) also has an on-off button, although sadly kids seems to be able to locate that one very quickly - but at least, unlike many other battery operated toys, it has a reasonable and tolerable noise level.

Overall, this VTech Spin & Learn Colours Torch is seriously such a hit with out two little boys that I wish I'd come across it earlier.

VTech Spin & Learn Colours Torch - RRP $19.95ea
Available from Department Stores and toy retailers


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

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29 July 2016

L'OREAL PARIS NEW HAIRCARE LAUNCHES JULY TO DECEMBER 2016

A few weeks ago I was so lucky to go to the exclusive blogger event where the new L'Oréal Paris product launches for July to December 2016 were revealed. I have already told you about the makeup launches, so here I will concentrate on the new haircare products.


First up there are three leave-in treatments, including the L'Oréal Paris Elvive Fibrology Double Serum, which is a unique dual action treatment that consists of two parts that mixes together when pumped out of the bottle, to provide complete action and care to the hair fibres.

On one side of the bottle there is the pink thickening gel, which is enriched with active ingredient Filloxane that penetrates the hair to create substance and thicken the hair fibre from within. And on the other side of the bottle, the transparent smoothing serum that softens and smooths the surface of the hair for a silky and shiny finish. This serum can be used in both wet and dry hair, and smells absolutely divine, and just a small pump or two through my hair really does leave it feeling soft and smooth and looking healthy.


The L’Oréal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil-In-Cream is a leave-in hair cream that deeply nourishes the hair, containing a combination of highly concentrated oils from six precious flowers, and it has a beautiful floral scent that continues to linger in the hair for quite a while. It is quite light and absorbs quickly into the hair, instantly making it feel soft and smoothing down frizz, but without making the hair feel greasy or feel heavy. The treatment can be used in wet hair after washing it, but can also be used in dry hair to add shine, moisture to the hair and smooth down frizz. Finally, it can also be used as a treatment prior to heat styling to protect the hair from any damage, so it is truly a multi tasking product.

Finally, the L’Oréal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 CICA Cream, which is also a leave-in hair cream specifically designed for damaged hair. The formula contains among others cicamide which instantly absorbs into the hair fibres to help target and repair damaged hair including breakage and split ends, while also protecting the hair from environmental aggressors. This treatment comes in a small pump bottle and is very light so again, just a few pumps is all that is required to coat my long thick hair. And when applied to especially the ends, in either wet of dry hair, you can immediately both see and feel how it tames frizz and treats dry and fuzzy ends, while leaving the hair silky soft and smooth.


Next is the L'Oréal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil Mask, is a concentrated mask for very dry hair, which comes in a golden orange tub. The formula contains Nutri-Ester technology, which leaves an ultra-thin film on hair that acts as a protective top coat. It also contains rose oil to regenerate hair, lotus oil to soften, chamomile oil to soothe, tiara oil to purify, flax oil to illuminate, and sunflower oil for its antioxidant properties. This treatment can be used after shampooing in lieu of conditioner, or as the occasional treatment - but with long hair, my ends are often dry, so i do like using it after each hair wash - also because it is a fast acting treatment that only needs to be left in the hair for 2-3 minutes before being rinsed out, which makes it good when you're in a hurry too. It has a nice scent, and does leave the hair feeling deeply nourished, even my dry ends.


And finally, there's the L’Oréal Paris ELVIVE Smooth Intense Heat Protect Cream, which is a heat protection cream that works to protect the hair from heat styling tools, including hair dryers and straighteners, at up to 230°C, which I believe, is also the highest heat setting of most major heat styling tools. The Heat Protect Cream also features an anti-humidity frizz shield to leave hair smooth for up to 96 hours, as well as it continues to keep the hair deeply nourished. The cream has a floral yet slightly spicy scent, that is quite lovely, and again, continues to linger in the hair for a while.

Overall, some fantastic new releases from L'Oréal Paris, and as I've been enjoying using every single one of these, I cannot even begin to pick favourites amongst these, and I would not hesitate purchasing either of these products again.


L'Oréal Paris Elvive Fibralogy Double Serum - RRP: $9.95 / 30ml
L’Oréal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil-In-Cream - RRP: $9.95 / 150ml
L’Oréal Paris Elvive Total Repair 5 CICA Cream - RRP: $9.95 / 100ml
L'Oréal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil Mask - RRP: $9.95 / 300ml
L’Oréal Paris Elvive Smooth Intense Heat Protect Cream - RRP: $9.95 / 150ml

* Products kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
 
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28 July 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: EMINENCE ORGANICS MUST HAVE MINIS STARTER SET

I have previously declared my love for the Hungarian organic skincare brand, Eminence, so today I'd like to share with you the Must Have Minis Starter Set.


This Must Have Starter Set includes travel sizes some of Eminence's best selling products, including cleanser, exfoliant, moisturizer, facial concentrate and eye serum along with a convenient zippered pouch that’s perfect for traveling. The products include;
  • Stone Crop Gel Wash, 30 ml tube
  • Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant, 30 ml bottle
  • Bamboo Firming Fluid , 10 ml pump
  • Stone Crop Whip Moisturizer, 15 ml tube
  • Neroli Age Corrective Eye Serum, 8 ml pump
  • Zippered pouch in beige faux suede

Let's start with the Stone Crop Gel wash, which is a cleanser intended for those with sensitive skin. The cleanser is oil-free extracts help even skin tone and minimize the appearance of blemishes to leave a healthy complexion, and without drying the skin out or stripping it of essential oils. But it leaves the skin feeling smooth and soft. Because it is so gentle, I do find that it is struggling a little removing my long-wearing makeup at night, and I find that more intense cleanser is required, but I do enjoy using it as my second cleanser to clean deep down every pore.

Next is the Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant, which contains Rice powder absorbs oil while lactic and salicylic acids remove dead skin cells. The strawberries and rhubarb infuse the skin with antioxidants. With strawberry and rhubarb I had kind of expected this to have a red or pink tinge, but rather it is actually green! The dermafoliant is very gentle and mild, and because they are chemical and only physical in the form of the superfine rice powder, the exfoliating properties activates when combined with water. The Dermafoliant is similar in style to a Dermalogica's Microfoliant, in that it is a powder formula that you need to "mix it up' yourself, and while I am huge fan of Dermalogica's version, I do find this is slightly superior in performance. And I do like that I can use it daily, preferring to use it in the morning, to give help keep my skin clear and make it look more radiant.

Then there's the Bamboo Firming Fluid, which contains strengthening agents of bamboo and coconut deeply hydrates, with the help of a Natural Retinol Alternative and Swiss Green Apple Stem Cells.This Fluid is to be use twice daily, after cleansing and before applying moisturiser. It promises to make the skin look tighter, and more lifted, while also increasing the collagen production in the skin by 25% in just 6 days. This is naturally difficult to measure, but I did quickly notice how the light serum , quickly made my skin feel and look healthy and glowing, while immediately also making it feel soft and dewy. Also worth mentioning is that it smells absolutely incredible.

The Stone Crop Whip Moisturiser is a regenerating and lightening moisturiser for normal to mature, dehydrated skin, helping calm and hydrate the skin while treating hyperpigmentation. I do have combination skin, but still found this moisturiser suitable for my skin, - probably because it is winter and my skin a tad drier than it is during the warmer summer months - so that said, I am not sure it if would then also mean that it will be too heavy come the warmer months and my skin again getting a little greasier, time will tell. Considering the moisturiser is for mature skin types, it is surprisingly light and absorbs fairly quickly into the skin, and I can feel that it is thoroughly hydrating my skin. I am yet to see any difference in pigmentation, but I have also only sampled a smaller tube, so I will no doubt need to use for a while longer to see clear results.

The final skincare product in the pack is the Neroli Age Corrective Eye Serum, which contains Neroli oil, coconut water and green apple stem cell technology fight the visible signs of aging, including the appearance of crow’s feet and fine lines. This Eye Serum is to be used twice a day, and as the name suggests, it is a serum, and hence is also very light, which I really like as it also means that it absorbs super quickly into the skin, without any greasiness, which also makes it particularly great for use under makeup. Yet, it is still quite moisturising, although, especially for use at night, I do feel I see a benefit from using a richer eye cream on top for extra nourishment.

The products come packaged in a zippered pouch in beige faux suede, that is so gorgeous and perfect for a night out, or it can of course also be used as a small makeup bag to hold a few essentials.


Overall, I am yet again very impressed with the products from this Eminence Must-Have Starter Kit. The products are small, yet large enough to use for several weeks to get a full feel for how your skin responds to them, and again, it is the perfect way to experience several products from a range, without having to purchase full sized products. I thoroughly enjoyed all the products, but for me the absolute standout product was without a doubt the Strawberry Rhubarb Dermafoliant and the Bamboo Firming Fluid, both of which I can see myself purchasing again again, but I also I also really liked the Neroli Age Corrective Eye Serum, especially for use during the day.


Eminence Must Have Starter Set - RRP: $98

Available from Eminence Organics

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


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27 July 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: SO...? SUPERSTAR EAU DE TOILETTE

Blast from the past.... Growing up I always remember my mum wearing perfume, so I wanted too from a very young age, and one of my first memories is the So...? Fragrance range. These fragrances are really marketed as a teenage range of fragrances and they are consequently very affordable, but that is of course not to say that any woman at any age cannot wear them. There are heaps of different varieties available, although I think there are currently more different ones available overseas than here in Australia. Today I am putting the So...? Superstar Eau de Toilette to the test.



The So...? Superstar Eau de Toilette contains;
  • Top Notes: Fresh orange, pomegranate, passion fruit
  • Heart Notes: freesia, heliatrope and lily of the valley
  • Base Notes: almond, cedarwood and musk

I am not the biggest fans of musky scents, so lucky the citrus and floral notes are dominating in this scent. It is a light, fresh floral and fruity scent, thanks to especially the orange, pomegranate and passion fruit and the freesia gives, which also gives it a very girly touch.

I do like that it is a light and fresh fragrance, my preferred type scent, but often it also means that it doesn't last as long as heavier scents. In this case, you do have to reapply the eau de toilette half way though the day, but considering the price, and this is by no means a luxe fragrance, I really don't think you can complain, it is really quite reasonable.

Overall, this is a lovely scent, and the freshness really does make it suitable for a young girl, or perfect as a casual everyday scent when you don't want to wear anything too strong.

So...? Superstar Eau de Toilette - RRP: $14.95 / 20ml, $24.95 / 100ml
Available from Priceline, variety stores, and selected pharmacies

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


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PRODUCT REVIEW: DREAMBABY ROYALE CONVERTA 3-IN-1 GATE

As many of you are aware, our little baby has been quite sick, spending over 4.5 months at the Royal Children's Hospital for a life threatening auto-immune disorder that saw him have intense chemotherapy leading up to a bone marrow transplant. He has been home for months now, and while he is doing exceptionally well, he is, due to being so sick for so long, naturally a little behind developmentally - so while he is now almost 14 months now, and under normal circumstances would be walking now, or at least very close to it, he is just not quite there yet.


Also having a 3 year old, that of course now is playing with smaller toys, it has been necessary to put the little one into a playpen, to ensure that big brother can continue to play with his toys, otherwise it is simply too risky as little one may swallow them. But of course, there are a lot of other dangers lurking around the house, where it is ideal to be able to block off our large open-plan family room and keep him retained in a secure area.

The convenient gate can stay open if required

And the new Dreambaby® Royale Converta® 3-in-1 Gate is the perfect solution. The Royal Converta gate features six individual modular panels creating a wide gate and including a convenient walk through gate, that has a 'child-proof' opening mechanism that stops little ones from running in an out, while it still has the feature to stay open if needed.


The gate is made from metal and is very sturdy, and all panels can be easily locked into place in various position so you can set it up exactly how you like it - and yet it folds down quickly and easily so you can easily move it around or take it away with you when you go on holidays.


Each section is 74cmtall so kids cannot climb over it, and they are 62cm wide, so combined the six panels creates a 3.8m long wide barrier gate so you can section off a whole room, as we have sectioned off our actual living room. But if needed, you can purchase a Dreambaby® Royale Converta® Extensions (pack of two) quickly and easily turn your six panel Play Pen Gate into an eight panel Play-Pen Gate, making it a massive 4.9m long.


What I also like is that you can use the gate to block off the fire place and stop little ones from getting to it, although personally we don't have the fireplace on during the daytime, and as it is a fully enclosed gas fire, and hence nothing they can get to, we haven't got the need to use it for that, but it is of course always nice having the option available, should you decide to put the fire on when the kids are around.


The Gate also includes wall mounting brackets, and can also be used to create a small fully enclosed playpen, which again you can of course make a tad bigger by adding the additional two extension panels.


Overall, I am really impressed with this gate, and I do wish that I had had one of these when our now 3 year old was smaller as it would certainly have made everyday life a lot easier when he was in the early exploring stages. I also love knowing that this gate of course complies with required Standards ASTM F1004-13.


Dreambaby® Royale Converta® 3-in-1 Gate - RRP: $179.95
Dreambaby® Royale Converta® Extension - RRP: $49.95


Dreambaby® Royale Converta® 3-in-1 is available through leading baby stores 

Visit Dreambaby Online or Facebook, or call (02) 9386 4000 for more information

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


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26 July 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: PAULA'S CHOICE BLUSH IT ON CONTOUR PALETTE

Contouring is all the rave at the moment, so today I'd like to share with your a palette that I've been loving lately, the Paula's Choice Blush It On Contour Palette.


This Palette contains six shades including a highlighter, a bronzer and four blushes, in the following shades;

Pearl - This is the highlighter shade, which is a very pale pink shade. It is very finely milled and it gives the skin such a lovely sheen without being too shiny or overly glittery which I don't like. The pale pink shade is perfect for my medium beige skin tone, and perfect for applying above the cheekbones, above the cupids bow, or any other areas that you want to highlight. I am so in love with this highligher that I wish that you could purchase it separately.

Bronze - This is the bronzer and contour shade in the palette - and it has a medium brown shade that again is perfect for my medium bronze skin tone, great both all over the face, but also just in the hollows of the cheeks for a more chiselled look. I also love that it is easy to apply and blend, and that it isn't overly shimmery, but rather leaves the skin with matte look and just a tiny touch of sheen.

Delicate Coral - This is the brightest of the blush shades, and it has a gorgeous orangy-coral shade, that is perfect for brightening up the face. I have not got anything like this my makeup collection, and would probably not have dared purchase it on its own thinking that surely it would be too bright, but in actual fact, it is probably my favourite shade in the palette.

Dusty Rose - As the name suggests, this is a dusty shade of coral, and consequently it is also not as bright, as well as it also has a slight pink undertone as opposed to the orange shade. It is a gorgeous shade, and very wearable - but also more of a 'standard' shade of blush, and hence I think I have several others in very similar shades.

Peony - This is a darker and also slightly brighter, and not so dusty pink shade - and like Delicate Coral is particularly great to brightening up the face.

Soft Mauve - This is a pinky toned dusty mauve shade, and quite lovely, and different from anything I have in my collection, which is great.


All the blushes - well all the powders including also the highlighter and the bronzer have the same finish, applying matte with a very delicate sheen, and not particularly loving overly glittery products, I have to say that I love this formula. They are all very finely milled and pigmented, so you can build up the intensity of the shades if you want, or of course apply very lightly.

The powders come in a basic grey cardboard palette with a magnetic closure and a large mirror inside. It is very simple, and is quite thin too, so doesn't take up much room in the drawer or makeup bag.

Overall I am really enjoying using this palette, the quality is great in that the powders are pigmented and wear well. If I had to pick out favourite shades, it would have to be the Pearl highlighter and the Delicate Coral blush, and I wish that both of these would be available for purchase individually as it is these shades that will be finished first. The remainder of the shades are also all very beautiful too, and I also love using these for a bit of variety, but these shades are similar to many others in my collection, making them less unique. That said, I still love and find myself reaching for these shades too, and having them all in the one palette does make it so much easier than scouring for individual shades in your makeup stash - this is truly a versatile palette and highly recommended!


Paula's Choice Blush It On Contour Palette - RRP: $55

Available from Paula's Choice

* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
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BRAND FOCUS: PREVAGE

Today I'd like to talk about a selection of products from Prevage that I have been loving lately, the Prevage Anti-ageing Daily Serum, the Prevage Anti-Ageing Wrinkle Smoother, the Prevage Anti-Ageing Overnight Cream and the Prevage Anti-Ageing Neck & Décolleté Firm & Repair Cream.


Let's start with the Prevage Anti-Ageing Daily Serum. This daily serum is to be used 1-2 times daily and promises to help protect and correct the skin's appearance from environmental threats, a leading cause of visible ageing signs, for younger looking, more beautiful skin.

The key ingredient in the serum is idebenone, which is claimed to be the most powerful antioxidant available, helping to protect and correct the skin, diminishing the appearance of lines, wrinkles, minor scars, redness, age spots and sun damage for a younger looking skin.

I apply the concentrated serum morning and evening after cleansing my skin, and as it is very concentrated and spreads easily, i only need a few drops. It absorbs instantly, and leaves my combination skin really soft and smooth, ready for moisturiser. I am at the age where wrinkles and lines are creeping in, as are pigmentation and age spots, as well as I have marks and scars from past acne. And already after a few uses, I can tell that my skin is enjoying and benefitting tremendously from using this serum.

My lines seems to minimise, and especially a large frown line between my brows is clearly reduced in size, and my skin in general seems to be firmer. Acne scars and redness also seems to be minimised, as is the blotches of pigmentation across my face, so overall my skin simply looks more even toned, and has a radiant glow I haven't seen for a very long time - a long period of extreme stress has clearly affected my skin, but this serum, seems to have managed to turn back time, and make it look younger and more well-rested.

I also really love the silver pump bottle, that looks ever so stylish, and luxurious on the bathroom shelf.

Next is the Prevage Anti-Ageing Overnight Cream, which contains advanced idebenone technology to work in sync with the skin's sleep cycle and when your skin is most receptive to treatments. The cream helps fight visible effects of environmental damage and optimise the skin's natural moisture and repair capabilities, to minimise the appearance of lines, wrinkles, discolourations and sun damage.

As most night creams, this Anti-Ageing Night Cream is very intense, and border lining being too rich for my combination skin - or at least, it has been during the warmer moths when my skin seems to be getting slightly greasier, it wasn't until the weather cooled down, and my skin in turn also has become a little drier that I really found it suitable for my skin. 

And I have to say that this is another incredible product, as I can both see and feel the benefits of the cream - the following morning, I wake to a skin that is soft and smooth, and appears smoother. Lines and wrinkles plumped out and my skin simply looks healthier.

The cream comes in a silver jar, and has a unique dispensing system where you push the top of the jar to push out cream, which is really nifty so you don't have to continuously dip your fingers into the cream. My only wish is that there would be a lighter version suitable for combination and oily skin types so I could use it all year round!


The Prevage Anti-Ageing Wrinkle Smoother contains intensive idebenone hyaluronic acid derivative and potent amino acids to help deliver an targeted treatment boost to immediately fill and erase the look of fine lines and wrinkles for a smoother look. It also contains biomimetic peptide and vitamin A derivative to support the skin's collagen and elastic to fight the appearance of lines and crows feet with continued use, and in addition, it also contains optical diffusers and soft-focus silicones to blur imperfections and illuminate the skin.

The treatment is to be used after your usual skincare, but before applying makeup. The Wrinkle Smoother comes in a small tube and has a clear soft applicator at the tip to ease application, which I really like. I've been using it where I predominantly need it, on the frown line between my brows, on some smaller lines on my forehead, and around my eyes, where lines are also creeping in. And you can really see that it has an immediate smoothing effect, as even with makeup on top, lines do appear minimised, and my skin clearly appears to be looking younger too when I am using this. And because you only use it where you really need it, the small tube does go a very long way.

Finally, the Prevage Anti-Ageing Neck & Décolleté Firm & Repair Cream. I am so guilty of neglecting my neck and décolleté - I have always looked after the skin of my face, hey even on my hands and body - and while I've happily invest in expensive skincare for my face, and good hand creams, for some reason, a basic body lotion is often what has been used on my décolleté. In recent years, however, if something, and in particular anti-ageing products haven't agreed with my troublesome combination skin, because the creams have been too rich causing congestion and breakouts on my face, I have however, often used those, very successfully on my décolleté. But actual Décolleté creams is a completely new territory for me!

This Prevage Anti-Ageing Neck & Décolleté Firm & Repair Cream contains, like the rest of the range, advanced idebenone technology as well as a protein restoring complex to help correct and protect the appearance of dry and delicate skin in the next and décolleté.

The rich cream is to be used twice daily, and immediately helps tighten and tone the skin, while adding intense moisture. And what I have particularly noticed, is that it has helped make my skin look smoother and younger mainly because the large cluster of pigmentation, dark spots and sun damage on my décolleté clearly is significantly reduced. My skin also looks softer and smoother, and those fine lines also seems to be less noticeable. I am truly amazed at the difference this cream has made.


Overall I am really enjoying using these products from the Prevage range, and I can see myself purchasing them all again, and trying additional products from the range too - adding an eye cream and a good day moisturiser wouldn't go astray either. The products do not come cheap, but they are seriously luxurious, and as the results speak for themselves, they are absolutely worth it - and they don't just look luxurious in their silver jars and bottles, they truly are luxurious too.

Prevage Anti-ageing Daily Serum - RRP: $205 / 50ml
Prevage Anti-Ageing Wrinkle Smoother - RRP: $99 / 15ml
Prevage Anti-Ageing Overnight Cream - RRP: $180 / 50ml
Prevage Anti-Ageing Neck & Décolleté Firm & Repair Cream - RRP: $130 / 50ml

Prevage is available from Elizabeth Arden counters at Myer and David Jones, from select pharmacies and select online retailers

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


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25 July 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: ASPECT STARTER KIT

Today I'd like to talk about a beautiful skincare Starter kit from Aspect. This kit was kindly sent to me during the 4.5 months I stayed at the Royal Children's Hospital with our little baby, and my skin was not enjoying the dry hospital environment, constant air conditioning, bleached linen, and needless to say that the stress caused by the seriousness of our son's illness, didn't make matters better! Anyway, while I had the best of intentions of writing about the products during the stay, I simply couldn't concentrate nor find the time to do so, until now..


Aspect is an Australian brand of high-powered skincare that uses pure and active ingredients based on medical science. The products are also free from pesticides, parabens and dyes, which is fantastic too!

The Starter Kit is the perfect way to experience several of the brands products, as it contains 4 deluxe sample products, with enough product to last you a few wees, long enough to get a feel for the products and how your skin responds to them. And it is a great way of trialling several products without the huge outlay of purchasing full sized products which you may not like or that may not agree with your skin.


The kit contains:
  • Purastat 5 Cleanser 30ml
  • Extreme C 20 Vitamin C Serum 15ml
  • Exfol L 15 Exfoliating Serum 15ml
  • Phytostat 9 Moisturiser 15g

First up is the Aspect Purastat 5 Cleanser, which is a very gentle, slightly exfoliating, yet foaming cleanser. It contains sugar and coconut extracts, and to thoroughly cleanser the skin, lactic acid milk extract to help keep the skin moisturised, while infusions of wasibi root ferment and willow herb protect the skin and strengthens its natural defences. The cleanser is very concentrated so the tiniest amount is sufficient, and I love how it seems to balance my combination skin, deeply cleansing it and gently buffing away dead skin cells, yet without drying it out, leaving it feeling soft and smooth.

The Extreme C 20 is serum that helps fight the many signs of ageing including wrinkles, slackened skin and uneven skin tone. The serum contains a mix of vitamin C, botanical extracts, and collagen amino peptides. The actual serum is very light and is best applied after cleansing and before applying moisturiser, and after just a few uses I could start to se that my skin was starting to look more refined, plump, refreshed and more brighter and glowing too.

Then there's the Exfol L15, which is an exfoliating night serum containing among others L-Lactic Acid, Multifruit BSC, and Canadian Willowherb. This night serum is intended for especially those with impure, congested, dull and thickened skin, and thus perfect for my combination skin prone to breakouts. It is very gentle, and just a few drops before your usual night cream is all it takes for this serum to gently slough away dead skin cells, while minimising oiliness in the skin, and making way for a skin that is noticeably more even in skin tone with pigmentation appearing less noticeable too.

Finally, the Phytostat 9 Moisturiser is anti-ageing moisturiser suitable for dry menopausal and ageing skin. It can be used both morning and night, and it is very hydrating and nourishing, so with my combination skin I did find it a little too rich for use during the day - not that I felt it made my skin congested or made it break out, I simply found that my makeup didn't last as long when I used this moisturiser during the day, so hence only used it at night time. The moisturiser contains among others olive leaf extract and gingo biloba as well as antioxidants and lipids to nurture and care for the skin, while protecting the skin from external aggressors. And when used at the night, I do find that I wake in the morning to a very soft and smooth skin that has clearly enjoyed the intense moisture

Overall this is a great starter kit and a fantastic way to get familiar with several products from the Aspect range, and trying how the products work in combination. Personally I've really enjoyed using the Purastat 5 Cleanser, the Extreme C 20 Vitamin C Serum and the Exfol L 15 Exfoliating Serum, and definitely feel that I can both see and feel that they make significant different in my skin, making my skin look clearer, brighter and healthier, so I would definitely consider purchasing these again - and then look into a more suitable moisturiser for combination skin types.

Aspect Starter Kit - RRP: $121

Available from Adore Beauty

* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
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21 July 2016

BRAND FOCS: MANUKA BIOTIC

I love it when I discover new brands, and one of the most recent ones is Manuka Biotic. The key ingredient in Manuka Biotic is organic Manuka Oil, which is known to help aids the body in repair and rejuvenation while the antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral properties work by helping to keep the skin clean and clear of bacteria that can cause skin problems such as eczema, acne, spots and other blemishes.


All the products contain certified organic Manuka Oil that comes from The Coromandel Mountains Manuka Company in New Zealand – a farm that distills their own Manuka essential oil. The Manuka Biotic products are very gentle and suitable for all skin types, including those with sensitive skin or prone to allergies or eczema, thanks to being free from chemical nasties including parabens, SLS, SLES, PEGs, PABA, EDTA, petrochemicals, mineral oils, and phthalates as well as they do not contain added colours or fragrances.

The Refreshing Clean Natural Body Wash is a soap free gentle natural plant based antibacterial body wash designed for every day use to help clean and clear the skin of bacteria that can cause skin irritation as well as providing daily hydration. It also has healing properties to help clear up cuts and scraps as well as helping to deal with skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis.

The key ingredients in the Body Wash are;
  • Manuka Oil with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, to help fight bacteria and keeps the skin clean and healthy.
  • Glycerine to help preserve the skin’s moisture. 
  • Kanuka Oil with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
This is a good basic shower gel for both him and her, and I love how it so gently cleans my skin without making it feel dry or irritated. I don't suffer from ezcema or other skin irritations, but I do get the occasional blemishes on my back, especially during winter when I'm always covered up in countless layers, and while using this Body Wash I have noticed that I've not had any breakouts, so definitely worth it.

Next is the Nourishing Repair Body Lotion which makes use of the healing properties of Manuka Oil in combination with Jojoba, Rosehip, Vitamin E and Shea Butter, to help soothe and moisturise the skin as well as reduce irritation and inflammation thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The key ingredients in the Body Lotion are;

  • Grapefruit seed extract, which is rich in Vitamin C and E that helps improve skin complexion.
  • Jojoba oil to provide all day moisture and protection 
  • Kanuka Oil to protect the skin from free radical damage and thanks to its antimicrobial properties help keep the skin clean and healthy. 
  • Olive oil which is rich in Vitamins A and E to soothe and nourish dry skin
  • Rosehip oil, a natural source of Vitamin A to nourish and repair the skin while as well as protect against free radicals. 
  • Shea butter, rich in Vitamin A & E, to improve skin blemishes and moisturise the skin 
  • Vitamin E to help soothe, heal and protect the skin
  • Calendula Oil, an anti-inflammatory to help soothe itchy and inflamed skin conditions

My skin is pretty normal, but during winter it does tend to get a little dry and consequently also itchy, especially on the legs, and sometimes I have found myself having to apply moisturiser again during the day, to stop myself from scratching my skin - but while using this Manuka Biotic, this has not been necessary. One application in the morning, and my skin has felt soft and smooth throughout the day, without any irritations. As I've been putting the cream on my body, I have also been using it on my feet which are particularly dry (and neglected, thanks to having two little kiddies and very little time to myself), but again, using this body lotion has made a significant difference, as especially my heels are no longer dry and cracked as they were before.

Finally, the Nourishing Natural Hand Cream. I wash my hands more times during the day than I can count, not helped by changing nappies on two little boys, and with the little one being sick and not having an immune system, hygiene is extremely important in our house - and all this hand washing (and using antibacterial lotions), are without a doubt very drying on the hands, and not helped by the cold winter weather. So I always rely on a good hand cream that i can apply throughout the day, and both my hubby and I have been using the Nourishing Natural Hand Cream lately.

The key ingredients in the hand cream are;
  • Manuka Oil with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, to help fight bacteria and keeps the skin clean and healthy.
  • Beeswax white to add a breathable barrier to the skin and help prevent moisture loss
  • Cucumber extract to soothe and add moisture
  • Calendula oil for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties making it great for soothing dry hands and healing the skin.
  • Kanuka Oil to protect the skin from free radical damage and thanks to its antimicrobial properties help keep the skin clean and healthy. 
  • Olive Oil, rich in antioxidants including Vitamins A and E, and is an excellent natural moisturiser to soothe and nourish dry skin
  • Shea Butter rich in Vitamin A & E, Shea Butter is important for improving skin blemishes and other conditions as well as being a rich moisturiser
  • Vitamin E to help soothe, heal and protect the skin

The cream is thick and rich, yet it absorbs quickly and easily into the skin, leaving the hands soft and clearly moisturised, and without any greasiness or stickiness, and I feel that even after washing my hands, they retain the moisture. This hand cream has now been placed in the laundry, where I tend to wash my hands following nappy changes.


Overall I am really enjoying using these products, and I love they are free from chemical nasties, and that they are loaded with properties thanks to the natural ingredients. I also love that the products are free from added fragrances, as that is a sure ingredient to irritate sensitive skin - but that said, the products do have a slight odd scent that, and I think it would be lovely if it also contained other ingredients for the pure reason of making it smell a little nicer, such as maybe orange or lavender. But again, it is still subtle scent and as it does subside rather quickly once the creams have absorbed into the skin, the scent is certainly tolerable. So I can definitely see myself purchasing these again, and if you have sensitive skin or are plagued by ie eczema, then I highly recommend that you give them a go too.


Refreshing Clean Natural Body Wash - RRP $19.99
Nourishing Repair Body Lotion - RRP $29.99  
Nourishing Natural Hand Cream - RRP: $22.95

Also available from the range is shampoo, conditioner, face cleanser and face cream

Manuka Biotic range is available in from leading health stores across Australia - for stockist details, visit Manuka Biotic

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


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20 July 2016

PRODUCT REVIEW: RM DNA RENEWAL RESTORING MASK BY DR. RONALD MOY

Today I've got an exciting newly launched product to share with you - the DNA Renewal Restoring Mask by the world-renowned dermatologist Dr. Ronald Moy.
Dr. Ronald Moy is certified by the American Board of Dermatology and the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, specialising in cosmetic and plastic surgery, face-lifts, liposuction, laser skin resurfacing and Sclerotherapy. Along with being president for various medical boards and societies over the years, he has dedicated his life’s work to understanding the impact of photo damage on skin’s health and aging.


Dr. Moy originally developed the DNA Renewal range as a means to reverse pre-cancers in patients with severely sun damaged skin, after further research he also found the DNA repair enzymes used in alliance with growth factors revealed dramatic age-reversing results.

As the master control for all skin functions, healthy DNA is vital to beautiful skin. With aging, the production of DNA Repair Enzymes declines. Skin cell turnover slows down dramatically, cellular repair becomes deficient, and the dermal matrix weakens. “By introducing an active DNA repair enzyme cream onto the skin you can introduce repair enzymes within the skin that will support the proliferation of new cell turnover and encourage the elimination of DNA damage,” says Dr Moy.

The new DNA Renewal Restoring Mask claims to instantly refresh your skin without any irritation with the power of DNA Repair Enzymes and Vitamins E and C, also giving the skin;
  • Instant hydration, to improve the texture and appearance of skin
  • Minimise fine lines with DNA Repair Enzymes
  • Reduce, protect and repair sun damage with Vitamins E and C and DNA Repair Enzymes delivered through liposomes to deeply penetrate the skin 
  • Boost cellular renewal for instant glow 
  • Eliminates dullness for a refreshed, vibrant appearance
  • Decrease wrinkles while lifting and tightening the skin
  • Reduce pore size
  • Make skin look instantly refreshed, healthy and glowing 

All I can say is WOW, some huge claims, and this is like made for my skin!! But how does it perform...

The mask is used by applying a thick layer over freshly cleansed face, and then leaving it on for 30 minutes (or just 10 minutes if you have sensitive skin), and then rinsing it off with warm water. It can be used once a week if you have normal skin, or up to three times a week if your skin is severely sun damaged, or alternatively, it also says that you can leave it on the skin for maximum absorption.


I am not sure if you'd call my skin 'severely' sun damaged, but I am personally not impressed with the increasing pigmentation on my face, not made any better by two recent pregnancies. For me to find the time to apply a mask and relax for 30 minutes a few times a week can be tricky, so I decided to use the skin 2-3 times a week, applying a slightly thinner layer and actually leave it on my skin to try to let it absorb into the skin to try to get some results - and take advantage of the winter months were the skin is not exposed to as much sun, and hence further damage, also making it a more ideal time to tackle and treat pigmentation issues.

The mask itself has the consistency of a very light gel cream, and it actually absorbs immediately into my skin, making it feel soft and smooth, with no greasiness or stickiness, so in actual fact there was really nothing to wipe off as it completely absorbed into my skin - well unless that's because I have been using too little!

Now I did not see immediate results, but after using this mask a few times, I did start to notice that the pores on especially my t-zone area appeared smaller in size, and my skin seemed more even in skin tone with some areas pigmentation definitely less noticeable. Also a few dreaded lines on my forehead appear to have reduced in size, and in general my skin really does look more rested, refreshed and I guess because pigmentation is not quite as noticeable and my skin thus appearing more even toned, my skin also looks younger and healthier too.

Overall I am really impressed with this mask, and it is certainly a great addition to any anti-ageing skincare, and I am convinced that you with long term frequent use will see amazing results. Personally I've found a new favourite that I'd hate to be without!


DNA Restoring Mask by Dr Ronald Moy - RRP: $89 / 60ml

Available from Advanced Cosmeceuticals or for further information contact Advanced Cosmeceuticals on 1800 242 011

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


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PRODUCT REVIEW: MAYBELLINE NEW YORK BABY LIPS CANDY WOW

I think everyone is familiar with the Maybelline Baby Lips range. And no doubt due to the success of those, a new range of tinted ones, the Baby Lips Candy Wow range of lip glosses were introduced...


These Baby Lips Candy Wow are lip glosses in crayon format that are enriched with vitamin E to keep lips hydrated and soft whilst adding a touch of tint to the lips, and they do feel very comfortable to wear - actually, just as if you were wearing a normal lip balm. They are available in four shades: Raspberry Tangy, Mixed Berry Bubblegum, Cherry Jellybean and Peach Lollipop, each one of them with a sweet candy scent, that smells so yummy that you're almost tempted to eat them!
  • Cherry Jellybean - a beautiful sheer red shade
  • Mixed Berry Bubblegum - a sheer pinky purple shade
  • Peach Lollipop - the palest shade with just a peachy-pink sheen
  • Raspberry Tangy - a sheer pink shade

L-R: Cherry, Mixed Berry, Peach, Raspberry

The lip glosses come in bright packaging where the shade no doubt is mean to represent the actual shade, and all four shades apply with a sheer wash of colours, although the darkest colours, the Cherry and the Raspberry give the darkest tint, and hence these two are my favourites.




The lip glosses are so easy to apply thanks to the pointed crayon format, that you simply twist up when more is needed. Giving only sheer wash of tint, naturally the colour also haven't got the longest of longevity, and just a drink of water and it is more or less gone, however, without you can manage to get about two hours before you need to reapply, which is still decent for a gloss.
  
Because of the format and the sheer tint, these lip glosses are perfect for casual wear and simple makeup looks, as well as I also think they are perfect for young girls just starting out wearing makeup as it gives them just that touch of colour without being over the top.
  
The Maybelline New York Baby Lips Candy Wow are very well priced with an RRP of $6.95 each, and are available from Priceline, selected pharmacies and supermarkets.
 
* Some products may have been kindly provided for consideration, and have reviewed in accordance with my Disclosure Policy.
 
 
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