still blushful

Priceline 40% off cosmetics sale!

2013-04-23T23:18:00.003+10:00

Australian readers! Priceline currently has 40% off all cosmetics today and tomorrow (24/4). I planned to post this earlier but the website has been playing up all day, it's only just started working better now. The sale is online and in-store!

I hope to pop into a store tomorrow. I want to get Face of Australia's Glitterati polish collection, the new Garnier Sensitive Skin BB cream and a couple of Australis items.

Do you plan on purchasing anything from the sale? Or have you already?

Product review with swatches!: MAC Soft and Gentle Mineralize Skinfinish!

2013-04-18T17:17:00.001+10:00

This is a product review with swatches for MAC's Soft and Gentle Mineralize Skinfinish. Soft and Gentle is a gilded peach bronze. MAC describes it as:

A luxurious velvet-soft powder with high-frost metallic finish. Smoothes on: adds buffed-up highlights to cheeks, or an overall ultra-deluxe polish to the face.

This is such a gorgeous product. I first read about it years ago but never thought to get it. I then saw it on my best friend Clair, it gave her skin such a pretty sheen I had to get it.

The shade is a kind of champage-y peach, it is super flattering. I wear it as a highlighter on the tops of my cheekbones, it makes my skin look brighter and gives it a glow.

Swatches!

It retails for $47AUD at MAC Cosmetics. I got mine cheaper from a blog sale. It was out of stock when I first tried to order it!

Do you own any MAC Mineralize Skinfinishes? Which ones? Or are they on your wishlist?

April Beauty Wishlist!

2013-04-15T23:08:00.002+10:00

This is my April beauty wishlist!

1. NARS Pierre Hardy blushes in Boys Don't Cry and Rotonde

When I first heard of this collection I only saw photos for nail polishes in the collection, I knew nothing of Pierre Hardy (a French shoe designer!) so I didn't research any further! Then I saw these photos on Temptalia and saw the gorgeous swatches - bring, gorgeous shades. I will definitely be getting these!

2. Face of Australia Glitterati nail polish collection

I saw these yesterday on the lovely Kate's La Beaute Et De Blogueur blog. Amazing!! I NEED these. I love glitter polishes. I'm going to try and find these tomorrow!

3. Ginvera Green Tea BB cream

I'd seen this product reviewed a couple of times. Yesterday I saw it on the lovely Alice's Bright Town Girl blog and was convinced to try it because of her stellar review - she was so positive and impressed by it that I've already popped it on my watch list on eBay.

4. Britney Spears Island Fantasy perfume

I first read about this on Fleur's Fleur de Force blog in February. The scent is fresh and sweet, I like clean perfumes, I'm hoping it's similar to Jennifer Aniston's perfume - one of my faves! Everytime I go to the shops I check for it. It is due to be released in the UK mid April - now! so I am going to keep searching for it. I may even buy it online!

5. Maybelline Color Tattoos for Summer 2013

New color tattoos! These are one of my favourite make-up items, a cream eyeshadow. I've got most of the previously released colours (only 10 have been released here). These have just come out in the U.S. for Summer 2013. The new shades are: Shady Shores, Cool Crush, Waves of White, Lavish Lavender, Icy Mint and Seashore Frost. I keep checking eBay wanting to purchase these! Photo from Amarixe.

So that's my wishlist for the month! What is on yours? Are you interested in trying out any of these products?

Product review and swatches!: Revlon's Lip Butters in shades Juicy Papaya, Pink Lemonade, Sorbet and Wild Watermelon!

2013-04-14T23:05:00.000+10:00

This is a product review with swatches for Revlon's Lip Butters in shades Juicy Papaya, Pink Lemonade, Sorbet and Wild Watermelon. These shades are new for 2013. I thought I'd swatched the older shades but nope! If anyone is interested I can do them and take some photos.

So far they are only available in the U.S., being impatient I got mine from eBay.

From left: Juicy Papaya, Pink Lemonade, Sorbet, Wild Watermelon

Juicy Papaya is a warm toned coral, Pink Lemonade is a neutral pink nude, Sorbet is a bright blue toned pink and Wild Watermelon is a bright watermelon red.

Swatches!:

I love Juicy Papaya and Sorbet - gorgeous brights! I like Wild Watermelon, I don't wear reds too often though. Pink Lemonade is pale and sheer, a good nude though. I know I will get a lot of wear out of all four shades.

I paid $15-16USD for these, a bit higher than US retail but worth it as they are a bit hard to find. When they arrive in Australia they will retail for $21.95AUD.

Have you splurged like me and got these!? If not will you be picking them up?

Product review with swatches!: Kevyn Aucoin's Sensual Skin Enhancer!

2013-04-14T22:39:00.003+10:00

This is a product review with swatches for Kevyn Aucoin's Sensual Skin Enchancer. It can be used as either a foundation or concealer. Kevyn Aucoin describes it as:

Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer was created to mimic the appearance of healthy, radiant skin. It can be used as a spot foundation, concealer, all-over foundation, highlighter (choose a shade lighter than your actual skin tone) or mixed with your moisturizer for a tinted moisturizer effect -- the possibilities are endless! Honey and jojoba oil create a soft, dewy finish as well as lend themselves to the formula's silky texture. It may be applied with the fingers, a brush or a sponge (wet or dry) for any desired finish.

I first read about this product on Makeup Alley, it has so many excellent reviews so of course I wanted it.

This is an unusual product. The product is very thick - you need the teensiest (yes teensy!) amount for full coverage. As the texture is so thick I like using a MAC 226 brush to apply it, I just dot it on and buff. I found using fingers applied the product too heavily and it looked cakey.

The product is 0.63 oz (18 g) - it comes in a small pot container. I knew it was small but I was still a little surprised. As you only need the smallest amount it'll last forever! In comparison, Rimmel's Wake Me Up and NARS' Sheer Glow:

The shade I have is SX03 and I'm very pale (MAC NC15) so the shade range is fantastic - there is amazing dark cocoa shades for darker skins. I originally purchased SX04 but it was too dark, luckily I snagged the next lightest shade off eBay. If anyone is interested in purchasing SX04 please let me know! I think the SX03 is a little too dark so I might also pick up SX02.

Swatches!

This retails for $45USD at Beauty.com and £36 at Mise Beauty.

While unusual this is a great product. Lately I've been switching between this and OCC's Skin Conceal for covering blemishes/redness.

Do you own Sensual Skin Enhancer? Or are you interested in trying it?

Product review with swatches!: MAC's Full Coverage foundation!

2013-04-14T22:02:00.001+10:00

This is a product review with swatches for MAC's Full Coverage foundation. MAC describes it as:

A smooth-to-apply, easy-to-blend, emollient-based foundation formulated to provide opaque coverage. Full Coverage foundation was developed for the professional makeup artist who wanted an emollient-based foundation with opaque coverage. Water-resistant and long-wearing, it can cover most scars, blemishes and birthmarks.

I hadn't heard much about this foundation before purchasing it, only a few reviews - I liked the sound of its opaqueness. I got it to use as a concealer.

This is a cream foundation, it has some slip but it needs work to make it look flawless on the skin. It can be a little tricky to apply. It worked best with a synthetic brush but I think a damp sponge would be much better - I've yet to try that.

This works well as a concealer, it is very opaque and you only need a bit to coverage blemishes or redness. I just press a little on with my fingers where needed. I think I like using this best to touch-up throughout the day, I just pop it in my bag and go. I won't use this as a foundation, I prefer something easier to apply like Laura Mercier's Silk Creme.

Swatches!

This product retails for $31USD. I purchased it from MAC Cosmetics. The foundation is a PRO product so it is only available at PRO stores and online.

Have you ever tried this product? Do you use full coverage foundation? If so which one/s?

March Favourites!

2013-04-07T18:23:00.003+10:00

Apologies for the lack of posts recently. My much loved Grandpa passed away a week and a half ago. He will be very missed. I'm doing okay, it's been a very difficult time though of course. I'm just so grateful I got to have so much time with him.

March favourites. Like previous months I have featured beauty favourites and a few others like tv, books, movies, games, food etc.

1. Laura Mercier Silk Creme foundation review/swatches

Still loving this foundation. Since I got this I really haven't used much else. The shade is perfect for my skintone, it has amazing coverage and looks amazing on the skin. I do mix a little of Le Metier de Beaute's Classic Flawless foundation with it, around 80% to 20%. I find the Laura Mercier a little bit too dewy for my skin so the Le Metier mattes it a little bit.

2. Le Metier de Beaute Classic Flawless foundation

As I stated above I love mixing this with Laura Mercier's Silk Creme foundation. The combination of these two foundations works really well for me. I haven't really reached for anything else. These may be my HG. I love it.

3. Face of Australia Face Base 3-in-1 primer

I use the oil-free version of this primer. I tried the original once before a few times then never used it again. This is very similar to Napoleon Perdis' Auto Pilot primer, for that reason I've wanted to try it again so I grabbed it. This primer makes my foundation go on smoother and helps it last a little longer. Good budget product. I'll continue to use this, I do want to pick up Urban Decay's Pore Perfecting primer soon though.

4. Real Techniques Buffing brush review

My absolute favourite make-up brush. I use this so apply pretty much everything - foundation, powder, bronzer and blush. I love it. I applies make-up with such ease. You can purchase this brush and others from Real Techniques at iHerb. You can use the code POZ847 to receive $5USD off your order or if your order is $40USD or more you will receive $10USD off.

5. Chanel Joues Contraste in Espiegle

This is a gorgeous soft apricot/coral blush. Joues Contraste are my favourite blush formula, they make your skin just glow. I love this shade, it looks so lovely on the skin, natural with a slight pop of colour.

6. Vichy Dermablend Fluid Corrective foundation

I use this as concealer to cover any blemishes and redness. It is a liquid and covers amazingly. I first thought this would be too dark for my skin but it blends in nicely. I use both this and my favourite OCC concealer, both are excellent. I will be doing a full review of this soon.

7. Giorgio Armani Eyes to Kill mascara

This is a much hyped mascara. I hadn't tried a high end mascara in awhile so I picked this up from a blog sale. It is a nice mascara that lengthens and gives definition to the lashes, it is good but I don't think it's worth the price. I wouldn't have purchased it at full price.

8. Hard Candy nail polish in Gummy Green

Speckled nail polishes are the in thing at the moment. Illamasqua has their Imperfection line, I also have a couple of Sprinkles ones from Nails Inc. This is a gorgeous mint green with black glitter bits in it. Unique and super pretty.

9. Seche Vite top coat

I've tried many fast dry top coats - never giving into purchasing this. This beats them all though, it dries my polish to touch within 45seconds - 1 minute. I love it. I'm terrible at letting my nails dry without touching things so I need this! I will re-purchase again. My second favourite is China Glaze's Fast Dry.

10. MAC Soft and Gentle Mineralize Skinfinish

I got this after seeing it on my best friend Clair. It gives the skin a gorgeous subtle sheen.

11. Matched

This is the first book I've actually finished in awhile (I read a book with a terrible turn in story so I went off reading!) This YA story is a dystopian world with a heroine - and of course it has a love triangle (like all YA books). I like dystopian stories, I find them so interesting. The book is slow moving but intriguing enough that it kept me interested. It doesn't beat The Hunger Games though!

12. Nikita

I watched the first episode of this show years ago. I intended to continue but never got to it. I had it waiting to watch I just didn't get to it. Why did I wait so long? This is a action/drama/intigue series, it's easy to watch and I enjoy it. Does anyone else watch this?

Those are my March favourites. What are yours!?

Product review with swatches!: MAC's Unflappable Mega Metal eyeshadow!

2013-03-24T22:07:00.000+11:00

This is a product review with swatches for MAC's Unflappable Mega Metal eyeshadow. MAC describes the shade as:

'plummy-gray taupe with metallic shimmer-sheen'.

I missed this when it first came out as part of MAC's Peacocky collection. I'd only just got into MAC then and considered it too expensive ;) I saw it on a blog sale though and got it as I can never have too many taupe eyeshadows!

So I love taupe eyeshadows. It's no secret. I find taupe-y shades complex - a mix of gray, brown and purple. Gorgeous! This eyeshadow is no exception. This shade is a Metal finish. It is incredibly pigmented - opaque in one swipe. It applies very smoothly and blends easily. It has a little fallout but I can deal with it.

Swatch!

This eyeshadow is 0.11oz, instead of MAC's usual pan size of 0.05oz. It's the same size as MAC's Pro Longwear eyeshadow line.

This eyeshadow retailed for $19.50USD. It was limited edition.

Do you own any MAC Mega Metal eyeshadows? I also have Dalliance.

Get Undressed with MUA's Undress Me Too palette & Get Basically Naked with Urban Decay's Naked Basics giveaway winners!

2013-03-24T21:21:00.000+11:00

Finally getting around to this! Sorry for the delay! It's time to announce the winners of my current giveaways :)

The first giveaway is MUA's Undress Me Too eyeshadow palette. I will also be including an MUA Extreme felt eyeliner.

The winner is... Mirjana!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Congratulations!

The second giveaway is for Urban Decay's Naked Basics eyeshadow palette.

The winner is... Mandy!

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Congratulations!

I'll be e-mailing you both shortly for your details! I've yet to mail out the prizes for my Sally Hansen and Maybelline giveaways, so sorry about that! It was a bit hard to get to the post office on crutches! I hope to get all the packages out tomorrow! Thanks as always for entering!

March Beauty Wishlist!

2013-03-20T22:10:00.000+11:00

This is my March beauty wishlist!

1. Chanel Les Beiges de Chanel

This is a very new powder from Chanel. I think it's currently only out in Europe and the U.K. so far. The line is replacing Soleil Tan de Chanel, the Les Beiges is used to give the face a healthy glow look, a less bronzed look.

2. Sleek Luminous powder

I first saw this product in a Pixiwoo video. A luminous setting powder is very appealing to me and I've always wanted to try something from Sleek.

3. Chanel Double Perfection Lumiere Long-Wear powder

I've yet to try a Chanel foundation/setting powder. I know I'll love it so that's why I've resisted so far. This is a replacement for the Double Matte line. I love setting powders, I never used to use them but they make my skin look more flawless and help my make-up last longer. I'll probably get this when my spending ban is over!

4. L'oreal Revitalift Miracle Blur Instant Skin Smoother

New from L'oreal, this product is a skin smoothing primer. I've read great reviews for it so far so I really want to see how it works. I'm always on the lookout for something to combat my oily skin.

5. Revlon Colorstay foundation

Yes Revlon Colorstay will now be coming with a pump! Finally! I've currently only for the old bottle in the Normal/Dry formula so I'll be picking up the new packaging in Oily/Combination. I don't think the formula has changed. I wore this all the time a couple of years back!

So that's my wishlist for the month! What is on yours? Are you interested in trying out any of these products?

Small drugstore haul - Covergirl, Hard Candy, Sally Hansen, L'oreal, Maybelline - and spending ban!

2013-03-13T21:57:00.001+11:00

So I did another drugstore haul. I was limited in my purchases this time, if I had my way I would have picked up way more polishes! ;)

Covergirl Outlast Stay Fabulous 3 in 1 foundation

I wanted to try this foundation as soon as it came out. It has gotten excellent reviews (check MUA!) This is a 3 in 1 product - primer, foundation and concealer. It sounds very similar to Max Factor's Facefinity All Day Flawless 3 in 1 foundation. So I got this to try and to also compare the two. I think it may be too matte for my liking (and a bit too dark!) but I can use an illuminator underneath.

Hard Candy Candy Sprinkles collection polishes in Gummy Green, Peach Pop, Pink Taffy, Sugar Rush

I really want Illamasqua's speckled polishes from the Imperfection collection - but they are pricey! I saw these on Vampy Varnish - amazing dupes and more shades! I'm most excited for Gummy Green and Peach Pop.

Sally Hansen Complete Manicure in Parrot

I didn't even intend to get this, I just saw it on the eBay store I got my purchases from. I couldn't resist. It looks a lot like OPI's Gargantuan Green Grape - a polish I LOVE but mine ended up goopy :(

L'Oreal Infallible The Super Slim eyeliner

I absolutely adore L'oreal's Lineur Intense Carbon Black eyeliner. Nothing comes close to it. I hope the Infallible Super Slim liner will be equally as good. And this one might actually be released in Australia.

I also picked up two Maybelline Baked blushes in Wild Blossom and Coral Burst. There is hardly any photos online - but the swatches look gorgeous!

Now I'm on a month long spending ban! For the last 6 weeks I've been off work recovering from knee surgery so I'm lacking in the $$ department! I haven't worked much in the last year and a 1/2 since my accident (broke my knee in Hawaii!) so my savings are dismal! I just can't stand on my knee for long hours in retail! I need to stick with it though while I job hunt. So I thought I'll do a spending ban and save some money!

I'm posting about it here so I stay accountable! I've got so many make-up products I need to use too - and keep using! Blogging gives me an excuse to purchase! I've only got a few exceptions. I really want to try Australis' new Face & Body foundation (when it's out!) and Curve Ink eyeliner. And I may give in a little if there is some kind of amazing sale - but I plan to stay strong!

What has everyone hauled recently!? Is anyone else on a spending ban!?

Product review with swatches!: Chanel's Ombre Essentielle Soft Touch eyeshadow in Fauve!

2013-03-10T22:33:00.000+11:00

This is a product review with swatches for Chanel's Ombre Essentielle Soft Touch eyeshadow in Fauve. Chanel describes this shade as:

'purple taupe with silver sparkles'.

This shade is part of Chanel's permanent collection.

The eyeshadow is packaged in standard Chanel beauty packaging.

This is a gorgeous shade. It is a gray purple, more gray than Chanel's Taupe Grise. The two shades are similar but have different tones, there is more shimmer in Fauve too.

Swatches!

Chanel eyeshadows are available from Chanel for $28USD. I got mine cheaper from a blog sale.

This is my last Chanel eyeshadow on my wishlist! I haven't gone to a counter in awhile though so that may change. The formula of these eyeshadows is amazing.

Does anyone else love taupe eyeshadow like me!?

Downtime apology and giveaways reminder!: Get Undressed with MUA's Undress Me Too palette! and Get Basically Naked with Urban Decay's Naked Basics!

2013-03-09T14:30:00.000+11:00

Sorry for the site being down the last couple of days. I forgot to renew the domain (silly me!), then I needed to wait for the DNS to change! It's fixed now! :) Because of this I've extended the giveaways I'm currently holding for another week.

The first giveaway is for MUA's Undress Me Too eyeshadow palette. I will also be including an MUA Extreme felt eyeliner.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The second giveaway is for Urban Decay's Naked Basics palette.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

As usual I am using Rafflecopter for the giveaways. On the Rafflecopter screen above just select how you want to enter and do as it says :)

You will get one (1) entry by leaving a comment on the giveaway post, this is mandatory - please also note which giveaway you want to enter, or let me know if it's both. You can get an extra two (2) entries if you follow the blog on Google Friend Connect (GFC), Bloglovin or via e-mail - you can do all three, they are near the top of the right sidebar. You can also get one (1) more entry by tweeting about the giveaway on Twitter.

You can enter either once, by leaving a comment, or a second, third or forth time by following the blog on GFC. Easy!

The giveaways will close on Saturday 16 March. The winner will be selected from random using Rafflecopter. This giveaway is open worldwide!

Please enter and good luck!! :)

Product review with swatches!: Rimmel's Scandaleyes shadow stick in Champagne!

2013-03-05T23:31:00.000+11:00

This is a product review with swatches for Rimmel's Scandaleyes shadow stick in Champagne. Rimmel describes it as:

Scandal Eyes eyeshadow stick by Rimmel London is a creamy and blendable eye shadow that provides a rich, intense colour impact with a luminous finish. 24HR wear. Waterproof & Smudge-proof. Rich, intense colour applies in a flash. Jumbo applicator creates a dramatic look in just one stroke. Can use as an eye shadow or an eyeliner. Creamy formula blends effortlessly for a luminous finish.

The line of eyeshadow sticks is new from Rimmel, they are similar to NYX's Jumbo Pencils. The shade Champagne is a soft neutral pink.

Swatch!

The shadow stick is pigmented, it applies smoothly and blends easily. It can be worn as a liner, a shadow or as a base to enhance colour.

Rimmel's Scandaleyes shadow stick retails for £4.49. I got mine from ASOS. The line isn't yet available in Australia.

Product review!: Illamasqua's Blush Up brush!

2013-03-03T22:12:00.001+11:00

This is a product review for Illamasqua's Blush Up brush. Illamasqua describes it as:

Challenging conventional blusher application, Illamasqua's all-new Blush Up brush has an innovative, ellipse shaped head, designed to tuck directly under the cheekbone. Creating a soft diffusion of colour up onto the cheekbone, combine the Blush Up brush with your favourite Powder Blusher Duo shades for a look that defines, elongates and slims the face in one simple movement.

This is a very unique brush.

The brush is ellipse shaped. The brush hairs are densely packed like a kabuki.

The brush is super soft. It makes blending bronzer and blush super easy. It is amazing for applying bronzer as a contour, you can easy shape your cheekbones, temple, jawline etc. The application is precise and you can easy blend out any harsh lines.

Swatch of bronzer applied with the brush:

I love this brush, it is so different than any other in my collection. It is really great for bronzing and contouring. I'm even going to try it for applying liquid and cream foundation.

The Blush Up brush retails for £28.50 from Illamasqua. I purchased mine for the same price from ASOS. I'm not sure if this brush is available in Australia yet.

Product review with swatches!: Chanel's Ombre Essentielle Soft Touch eyeshadow in Beige Lame!

2013-03-03T21:56:00.000+11:00

This is a product review with swatches for Chanel's Ombre Essentielle Soft Touch eyeshadow in Beige Lame. Chanel describes this shade as:

'medium-dark beige with multi-coloured sparkles'.

This is my absolute favourite eyeshadow. Beige Lame was released in 2011 as part of Chanel Holiday. It was limited edition.

The eyeshadow is packaged in standard Chanel beauty packaging.

I love neutral eyeshadows. On the lid I normally wear brown, taupe or grey. Usually I find beige shadow not bold enough, I like a lid colour to stand out a little - this shadow does just that. The beige is a bit darker than my skintone and has pink, purple and aqua micro-shimmer. It is gorgeous!

The shadow is pigmented, smooth and blends easily. I usually wear it on it's own all over the lid and into the crease, a nice simple eye with depth.

Swatches!:

Chanel eyeshadows are available from Chanel for $28USD. I love this shadow enough that I've got two ;) I've hit pan on my first - I've already started the second too because I originally couldn't find the first! I plan on trying to track down another soon. I adore it so much!

Do you own an Chanel eyeshadows? What eyeshadow brand is your favourite?

Giveaways reminder!: Get Undressed with MUA's Undress Me Too palette! and Get Basically Naked with Urban Decay's Naked Basics!

2013-03-03T21:41:00.000+11:00

I thought I'd post a reminder for the giveaways I'm currently holding! :)

The first giveaway is for MUA's Undress Me Too eyeshadow palette. I will also be including an MUA Extreme felt eyeliner.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The second giveaway is for Urban Decay's Naked Basics palette.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

As usual I am using Rafflecopter for the giveaways. On the Rafflecopter screen above just select how you want to enter and do as it says :)

You will get one (1) entry by leaving a comment on the giveaway post, this is mandatory - please also note which giveaway you want to enter, or let me know if it's both. You can get an extra two (2) entries if you follow the blog on Google Friend Connect (GFC), Bloglovin or via e-mail - you can do all three, they are near the top of the right sidebar. You can also get one (1) more entry by tweeting about the giveaway on Twitter.

You can enter either once, by leaving a comment, or a second, third or forth time by following the blog on GFC. Easy!

The giveaways will close five (5) days on Friday March 8. The winner will be selected from random using Rafflecopter. This giveaway is open worldwide!

Please enter and good luck!! :)

Haul! eChemist.co.uk - Rimmel, Lancome, La Roche-Posay, Vichy Dermablend!

2013-03-02T23:50:00.000+11:00

So I made a bit of a haul. Oops! The items just fell in my cart, not my fault! ;) I had a couple of things on my wishlist I'd definitely planned to get so I gave in! I'm on a bit of a spending ban now!

Rimmel Clear Complexion Clarifying powder

I've never heard of this product before, I like transparent setting powders though - this is specifically for for oily skin.

Vichy Dermablend Corrective foundation

I first heard of this foundation on Lisa Eldridge. Lisa recommended it for spot concealing redness and blemishes. My skin has cleared up a lot in the last year but I do still get some breakouts. I want to try this and see how well it works as a concealer. It's supposed to be amazing.

Lancome Teint Visionnaire foundation

This is a new product from Lancome. The foundation features Visionnaire, the popular serum aimed towards anti-aging. It went straight on my wishlist as soon as I heard about it. As I near my thirties (I'm still mid 20s in my mind!) I think more about skincare and aging prevention.

La Roche-Posay Effaclar K

I first heard about this product years ago. It is for oily breakout-y skin. I do have a blemish fighting product I currently like - I like trying out new products though, see if I can find something that works better! I've wanted to try this for awhile, I've never found it in Australia though.

So that's my haul! :) I purchased these items from eChemist.co.uk. I read about the site on MakeupAlley - it has great feedback and free worldwide shipping! Such amazing prices too! - I only paid around $80AUD all up. I tell myself it's a treat for being stuck on crutches for a month. I love trying out new products - the blog gives me an excuse to ;)

Have you purchased anything from eChemist.co.uk? What have you hauled recently!?

February Favourites!

2013-03-02T22:07:00.000+11:00

Yep February is finished. So it's time for my favourites! February has gone so quick, it's because there is only 28 days! Like previous months I have featured beauty favourites and a few others like tv, books, movies, games, food etc.

1. Laura Mercier Silk Creme foundation review/swatches

I've been loving this foundation the last couple of months. The coverage is amazing and it looks so nice on the skin. Sometimes it can look a little too dewy so I've been mixing in some of Le Metier de Beaute's Classic Flawless foundation, the two foundations look really good together.

2. Le Metier de Beaute Classic Flawless foundation

I got this a few months back and I originally thought it was too light. I've paled a little bit though (even though it's still summer!) so I got this out again. I've been really loving it mixed with Le Metier de Beaute's Classic Flawless foundation. Does anyone else mix foundations?

3. Australis Glitter Strikes Back nail polish

This polish is purple, gold and pink glitter in a clear base. So pretty. I love it!

4. L'Oreal Lineur Intense Carbon Black eyeliner

This is my HG eyeliner. I've tried others but nothing beats this! It isn't available in Australia so I buy it online!

5. Chanel Poudree Signee highlighter review/swatches

Such a pretty rose-y pink toned highlighter. It gives a gorgeous glow to the skin.

6. Make Up For Ever Pro Finish foundation powder

I've tried a few powder foundations recently but I don't use them all the time. I got this to give powder foundation another go. This powder is unique as it can be used wet or dry. I've only used it as a setting powder so far. It matches my skintone perfectly.

7. Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer foundation

I've read amazing things about this foundation. I got it to use as a concealer (I've currently misplaced my OCC!). This is a thick cream foundation, it is very pigmented and a little goes a LONG way. It works so good as a spot concealer. I've got two shades of this, I accidentally ordered a shade too dark, I managed to get a lighter shade cheaper though! The darker shade will be in a blog sale at some point!

8. MAC Shale eyeshadow review/swatches

This is a gorgeous purple mauve toned taupe. Such a gorgeous shade. This works as both a lid and crease colour. This has become one of my favourite eyeshadows.

9. Chanel Beige Lame eyeshadow

Gorgeous eyeshadow. I've got two but I've hit pan on the first. I think I'll be tracking down another!

10. Miranda

This is a British comedy series. It is absolutely hilarious. One of the best comedies I've ever seen. I watched 3 seasons within a few days (they are short seasons though!). It is so easy to watch and a good laugh.

Those are my February favourites. What are yours!?

Product review with swatches!: LORAC's PRO eyeshadow palette!

2013-02-28T22:55:00.000+11:00

This is a product review with swatches of LORAC's PRO eyeshadow palette. LORAC describes it as:

Created by celebrity makeup artist Carol Shaw, this PRO artistry palette is packed with eight shimmer and eight matte eye shadows in all the shades you need to create the hottest looks straight from the red carpet. LORAC’S velvety smooth shadows are infused with soothing botanicals and are ultra-pigmented to perform wet or dry. With sixteen (16) shadows to contour, line, define, and create any look you desire, you have everything you need for your eyes and brows in one sleek palette!

LORAC has packagaed the palette in a long, thin palette, it has a mirror too. It also comes with a 0.17 oz mini Behind the Scenes eyeshadow primer.

The palette has sixteen (16) shades. Each shadow is 0.32oz. The top row is matte: White, Cream, Taupe, Lt. Pink, Mauve, Sable, Espresso and Black. The bottom row is shimmer: Nude, Champagne, Gold, Lt. Bronze, Pewter, Garnet, Deep Purple and Slate.

Close ups!

Surprisingly there is more medium and darker toned shades than lights. I like the range of shades, there is mostly neutrals with a couple of pops of colour.

Swatches!

I've never tried any LORAC products before, the brand isn't available in Australia so I purchased this online. The PRO eyeshadow palette is amazing. These eyeshadows are very pigmented, apply easily and blend smoothly. I like the combination of matte and shimmer eyeshadows. They can easily be used to create depth. Some of the mattes are slightly chalky, White is the most difficult but it is still workable. The shimmers are the standouts for me.

The best shades are Cream, Mauve, Champagne, Lt. Bronze, Pewter, Garnet and Deep Purple.

This palette retails for $42USD at Sephora.

Do you have this palette? Or would you like to own it? What LORAC products have you tried?

Products I Regret Buying!

2013-02-27T23:30:00.000+11:00

I thought I'd share a list of products I regret buying. Luckily it's not very long, I love finding new products I like not ones I dislike!

Dior Diorshow mascara

This is the biggest product regret for me. I got this about 2 years ago, it was a splurge purchase and I was really excited to get it. As soon as I put it on my eyelashes I got the worst reaction. My eyelids and under eye area became itchy, red and very inflammed. I must be allergic to an ingredient I've had it happen once before years ago with a Maybelline mascara.

L'Oreal Lumi Magique foundation

I got this foundation last year when it first came out. The colour was way too dark for me! There are lighter shades available overseas but not here, why does that happen!? I swear I even saw paler shades of this in Brisbane. Why not in Melbourne!? The palest shade was very orange on me, un-useable :( Disappointing as it's supposed to be an amazing formula. This is why I tend to look at high end foundations.

Australis Stayput foundation

I also got this foundation last year. The colour of this is way too dark for me too. I've tried another couple of Australis foundations, the Paparazzi Perfect foundation and tinted moisturizer and had the same issue. Their lightest shade is usually always Nude, it's more for medium skintones though and I'm quite pale. I'm totally looking forward to trying out their forthcoming Face and Body foundation though!

Those are the products I regret buying. What are yours!?

Product review!: MAC's Pro palette!

2013-02-23T22:53:00.000+11:00

This is a product review for MAC's new Pro palette. MAC re-designed their Pro palettes, they now come with a clear plastic lid. MAC describes them as:

A single-sided Pro palette that accommodates one insert. See-through lid lets you view shade choices while keeping product secure and protected during transit and storage. High quality, glossy black plastic. Complete your Pro palette with any one of our insert options - eyeshadow, blush, or customizable.

I've got two of the large palettes and I got the 15 pan inserts for them.

The palettes are black plastic with a clear lid.

A large palette with a 15 pan eyeshadow insert

The palettes come without an insert, they need to be purchased separately. There is a few insert options - eyeshadows, blush or wells (for lipsticks, foundations etc).

This is the 15 pan eyeshadow insert:

The shadows just slip into the circles, they stay inside as long as the pans are magnetic.

One of my 15 palettes filled:

Hi me! Reflective!

I love these palettes. In my opinion they look more stylish than the original palettes - and because of the clear top you can see the shadows inside, no need to label palettes anymore or open it to check what is inside.

The large palette retails for $18USD from MAC Cosmetics, the 15 pan insert retails for $9USD. I paid a little higher than retail for these from a blog sale, they've been sold out for awhile. These should be launching in Australia soon, the Australian MAC Cosmetics website lists the palettes as coming soon!

Do you own any MAC palettes? Do you prefer this style of palette?

Product review with swatches!: MUA's Undress Me Too eyeshadow palette!

2013-02-23T22:17:00.000+11:00

This is a product review with swatches for MUA's Undress Me Too eyeshadow palette. MUA describes this as:

The Undress Me Too Palette embraces this season’s fresh-faced look and urges you to strip back and go nude! Made up of 12 warm and timeless shades, this palette will suit all skin tones and any occasion. The pearlescent flesh-toned finish of shades Naked, Devotion and Shy are perfect for highlighting the eyes, while the shimmering bronze hues of shades Fiery, Lavish and Dreamy give a sultry effect. There are even smouldering contour tones in shades Tranquil, Exposed and Wink so that you can transform your minimalist day look into a sexy smokey eye in an instant.

I think this is first time I've seen MUA name their shades. It makes identifying them easier!

The palette is packaged the same as MUA's other palettes, this one is white though.

Top row, from left: Naked, Devotion, Shy, Fiery, Lavish, Dreamy

Bottom row, from left: Tranquil, Exposed, Reveal, Wink, Obsessed, Corrupt

Out of the MUA palettes I own this is my favourite. I love taupe eyeshadows and there is a few taupe-y shades in this palette.

Swatches!:

The quality of this palette is really good. The eyeshadows are pigmented, apply smoothly and blend easily. The two shades I found tricky were Lavish and Corrupt, it took a bit to layer them up.

This palette retails for £4 from MUA.

I'm currently holding a giveaway to win one, you can find that here! Good luck!

Product review with swatches!: Rimmel's Undercover eyeshadow primer!

2013-02-23T21:56:00.001+11:00

This is a product review with swatches for Rimmel's Exaggerate Undercover eyeshadow primer! Rimmel describes this product as:

Rimmel introduces Exaggerate Undercover, our first primer base that will reinvent your eye shadow! The lightweight silicone formula preps and smoothes lids. 18-hour wear, crease-proof, smudge proof guarantee.

I first saw this when I did an ASOS haul, it reminded me a lot of my beloved NARS Smudgeproof eyeshadow primer so I got it to try and compare.

The primer is in a tube with a doe foot applicator.

Swatch:

The finish is satin. It sets mostly clear on the skin, it does leave a shimmery shine though. I like it.

Left: Rimmel, right: NARS

This primer keeps my eyeshadow on all day without creasing or fading. It amps up colour and intensity too. This is an amazing product. The first drugstore primer I've actually really liked. I'll continue to use my NARS but I'll definitely keep using this and re-purchase it.

This primer retails for £4.99. I got mine from ASOS, it seems to have disappeared off their site though. It isn't yet available in Australia.

Are you interested in trying this eye primer out?

Giveaway!: Get Basically Naked with Urban Decay's Naked Basics!

2013-02-23T00:08:00.001+11:00

Yep second giveaway! This is a giveaway for Urban Decay's Naked Basics eyeshadow palette.

When I purchased one for me, I also got another to giveaway.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

As usual I am using Rafflecopter for the giveaway. On the Rafflecopter screen above just select how you want to enter and do as it says :)

You will get one (1) entry by leaving a comment on the giveaway post, this is mandatory. You can get an extra two (2) entries if you follow the blog on Google Friend Connect (GFC), Bloglovin or via e-mail - you can do all three, they are near the top of the right sidebar. You can also get one (1) more entry by tweeting about the giveaway on Twitter.

You can enter either once, by leaving a comment, or a second, third or forth time by following the blog on GFC. Easy!

The giveaway will close in two weeks on Friday March 8. The winner will be selected from random using Rafflecopter. This giveaway is open worldwide!

Please enter and good luck!! :)