September 2020 Empties & Giveaway!...

Hmm yes well, I'd planned to have these up in October along with the other two giveaways, but with one thing and another (including a bunch of beautyheaven reviews), I didn't get there. Then for one brief (and fleeting) moment, I thought maybe I should combine them with the October Empties, but as you can probably imagine, I couldn't fit them all on my bench, let alone in one camera shot lol! So anyway, I'm continuing on with the usual process, and fingers crossed I can get last month's ones up before we hit December - eek, December!...

Body

Bosisto's Kakadu Plum & Lemon Myrtle Nourishing Body Wash (500ml, RRP $8)

Lovely body wash with a deliciously crisp & refreshing lemon scent - love the simplicity of the packaging and that it's available at Coles. No SLS content, Aussie-made, not tested on animals, and it's vegan, but still not quite moisturising enough compared with the others in my rack. Boy am I getting fussy! ♥♥...

Repurchase?

Maybe, if I have trouble getting hold of my other faves ♥♥...

Lanolips Rose Hand Cream Intense (50ml, RRP $16.99)

This was gifted to me so long ago I can't remember the source, and even though I had broken the seal, it's been in a dark drawer so it was perfectly fine. Not quite as intense as I'd hoped, and I have others that give my hands a richer treatment, but that rose fragrance? Heavenly! Absorbs quickly and completely, and it was particularly effective on my shrivelled cuticles ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yes, if for nothing else than the fabulous scent ♥♥♥...

No Pong All Natural Anti Odourant (35g, RRP $8.95)

Small quantity left in the tin from last summer's series on aluminium-free deodorants - full review is HERE. Excellent product and 100% effective against odour & wetness - it didn't score 10/10 but only because getting the lid off is a challenge for me ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

I would if my other preferred ones weren't available. This would be ideal for travellers because it's so small ♥♥♥...

Regulars
Colgate Plax Alcohol Free Gentle Mint Mouth Wash (500ml, RRP $6.49)
Reach Dentotape (20m, RRP $2.99)
White Glo Charcoal Total Mouth Detox Whitening Mouthwash (500ml, RRP $6.99)
White Glo Micellar Whitening Toothpaste (100ml, RRP $5.99)
White Glo Toothbrush (free with the above toothpaste)

Face

Bioré Charcoal Cleansing Micellar Water (300ml, RRP $10.99)

So many micellars on the market and after doing a whole bunch of research when they first appeared over 5 years ago, this is the one that I'm sticking with, well for the time being anyway. It's highly effective, a great price and I LOVE the fragrance. It's not that it works any better than many others, but the scent is so appealing. Beats me why this hasn't appeared in my Regulars section before as I've bought many bottles, but it will next time ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

That's a yes ♥♥♥...

Nutrimetics Ultra Care+ Super-C & Retinol Serum  (20ml, RRP $70)

I haven't been all that impressed with the cheaper serums from this brand (mind you the Platinum one is sensational), and while this is still somewhat pricey, I bought it because they had a special deal of buy-one-get-one-free, so for $35, I was in! The serum itself is actually pretty darn fabulous, but the packaging sucks - a skinny little tube that I had trouble holding, and the product kinda squirts down the outside of the cap rather than onto the fingers. The serum is very thick, rich and viscous, and I would struggle to spread it onto my face in the cold weather, but apart from these issues, it made my skin look amazing - glowy, refined, plump, and a delicate floral fragrance, pretty much everything you want from a serum ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Absolutely, when it's on special, but not in the cooler months ♥♥♥...

Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Serum (30ml, RRP $59.99)

The jury is still out on this one. To be fair, this bottle wasn't used continuously as I was trialling the Skin Physics sculpting gel below and excluding all other products, so I'll reserve final judgement until I've had time to use another complete bottle without interruption. In the interim, I can say that it's a terrific serum that causes absolutely zero irritation, but I can't tell yet if it's any better for my age-related skin issues than others I've used. Adore the purple packaging, and I was surprised that I didn't mind the fact that it is fragrance-free (no fragrance is better than one that I dislike). Other advantages are that Olay products are regularly on special, so I'll never EVER have to pay full price for it, and it has maintained the pore refinement that I was seeing from my other retinol serums. To be continued ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yes (on spesh natch) ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Eaoron Makeup Remover Balm (90g, RRP $39)

Neutrogena Make-up Remover Cleansing Towelettes (Pack of 25, RRP $7.99) 
Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Make-up Remover (112ml, RRP $10.89)

RapidLash Eyelash Enhancing Serum (3ml, RRP $65)

Skin Physics Dragon's Blood Facial Sculpting Gel (50ml, RRP $59.95)
St. Ives Blackhead Clearing GreenTea Scrub (150ml, RRP $9.99)

Face Masks

Regulars

Skin Republic Collagen Hydrogel Under Eye Patch (3 pairs, RRP $9.99)

Skin Republic Retinol Hydrogel Under Eye Patch (3 pairs, RRP $9.99)

Hair

Head & Shoulders Anti-Dandruff Shampoo (200ml, RRP $6.75)

Fortunately, I'm not dealing with dandruff or flaking scalp - I bought this many months ago on the recommendation of my stylist to remove excess colour safely from my hair if my home dye ends up too dark, and it's really quite effective. Even more so if I crush a Vitamin C tablet and mix it in with the liquid. It leaves my hair feeling like straw so I only do one application, leave it on for at least 5 minutes, rinse and then use my usual Goldwell Kerasilk one for application #2, and then it feels ok again. It sure takes out the dye quick-smart! ♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yes, but I've had so many compliments about my (accidental) darker hair shade I may not need it lol... ♥♥♥

Regulars

Goldwell Dualsenses Color Revive Color Giving Conditioner - Icy Blonde (s00ml, RRP $32.95)

Goldwell Kerasilk Control Conditioner (1L, RRP $80.95)

Schwarzkopf Igora Royal Permanent Color Creme - 8-11 Light Ash Blonde (RRP $23.95)

Schwarzkopf Live Colour Pastels - Cool Grey, Metallic - Lilac Chrome & Denim Steel (RRP $5.49)

Makeup

Regulars

Chi Chi Highlighting & Contouring Palette (33g, RRP $24.95)

Maybelline Brow Ultra Slim Eyebrow Pencil (RRP $15.95)

Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Liner (RRP $15.95)

Natio Define Eye Pencil - Steel Grey (RRP $14.95) 

Giveaway!

Up for grabs are...

• Elizabeth Arden 5th avenue boxed set - EDP (125ml), Parfum (3.7ml) & Moisturising Body Lotion (100ml)
• Glow Lab Mini Pack (Creme Cleanser/Facial Moisturiser/Body Lotion/Facial Serum/Night Cream)
• MCoBeauty 2-in-1 Bronzer & Highlighter
• Sweet Little Things Floral Scented Soap Petals

All items were purchased by me and the approximate value is $100.  The giveaway is open to...

Australian Residents Only! 

Here's how to enter...

1. Leave a blog post comment on this page as per the question inside the Rafflecopter (please note: if you don't leave a comment on this page, you won't be included in the draw!) If you're unable to leave a comment for technical reasons, please email your answer to katshepsutt(at)gmail.com.
2. Leave your email address inside the Rafflecopter so I can contact you if you win
3. Follow my blog one way or another from the many choices listed
4. Only one entry per person, please read the T's & C's inside the Rafflecopter

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

This giveaway is now closed  - check back later tonight to find out who won!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Woo hoo! - random.org has chosen the beautiful Claudia C. as the winner.  

Congratulations gorgeous! 

Claudia, please respond to the email I've sent you by midnight

Wednesday 25th November to claim your prize :-)

Edit: Claudia has claimed her prize ♥

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Best of luck to all who enter!

Take care of you, and keep safe

kats xxx

March 2020 Empties & Giveaway!...

Well now, my biggest collection of Empties ever. Holey guacamoley, there are almost 40 containers here - so many I had to stand three feet back from the bench in order to take the pic! No less than four body washes - I usually have around eight in rotation in the shower caddy, and for whatever reason, I finished half of them within a few weeks of each other. Also another bottle of perfume (major back-pats for kats), two lip balms and some new skincare, so here we go...

Body

Beechworth Honey Bush Honey & Macadamia Hand Cream (100ml, RRP $12)

I've just realised I don't have a hand cream in my Regulars section - it's because I have such a huge stash to work through, and it takes me forever to finish each tube (although I'm using more now that I'm washing my hands every 10 minutes lol). The last appearance of this beauty in an Empties post was July 2018, but if I can manage another one this year, this darling will be the first one to hit that section. Even though I have at least 10 others in my drawer (most partly used), I bought this because I love what it does for my hands, plus I didn't want to go through a Summer without the refreshment of the zingy lemon myrtle fragrance ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Spare stashed away ♥♥♥...

Bosisto's Kakadu Plum & Lemon Myrtle Nourishing Body Wash (500ml, RRP $8)

Lovely crisp and fresh scent and has everything else going for it - available in the supermarket, SLS-free, not tested on animals & Australian owned. So why not three hearts? Well because of my age I've made yet another decision about the shower products I use, above and beyond they must be SLS-free - they also have to contribute some moisture to my skin, and I need that all year round not just in Winter. So while this is a lovely product, and I would recommend it to anyone that doesn't have very dry skin, I won't be including it in my collection going forward (see pic below of what I'm continuing to use) ♥...

Repurchase?
No. I actually have another one stashed away, but it's too heavy to include in the giveaway so I'll gift it to a family member ♥...

Fresca Natural Deodorant - Wooden Spice with Sandalwood & Carrot Seed (50ml, RRP $16.50)

In my not-so-long-ago series on aluminium-free deodorants, I rated this numero uno, and I still love it. But I'm now preferring the wind-up stick format from Schmidt's (see below), purely from an application comfort point of view as I don't have to wait for it to dry - cream sticks have been my preference for years now and still are, but that aside, this is a fabulous product and highly recommended ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
Maybe ♥♥♥...

Schmidt's Cedarwood + Juniper Natural Deodorant (92g, RRP $13.99)

This range is now my #1. While I said that this fragrance was a bit strong and masculine on the really hot days, it's actually just right for the cooler weather ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
Even though this particular scent is not available at Priceline, yes ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Natures Commonscents Natural Goats Milk & Paw Paw Body Wash (500ml, $8.00)
Oral-B 3D White Luxe Glamorous White Toothpaste (96g, RRP $9.49)
Reach Dentotape (20m, RRP $2.99)
SheaMoisture African Black Soap Soothing Body Wash - (384ml, $24.95)
SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Hydrating Body Wash (384ml, RRP $24.95)
White Glo Charcoal Total Mouth Detox Whitening Mouthwash (500ml, RRP $6.99)


Face

Breeze Balm Lip Balm - Bananas For You & Grape Crush  (15g, RRP $19.95)

Finished both of these at the same time, one next to the bed, one on my computer bench. Breeze Balm is still the best and most effective lip balm I've ever tried, and I've been hitting it hard these last few weeks as I've only been wearing lipstick for rare outings or swatching. My lips have reaped the rewards of pretty much all day use of this amazing formula - so much softer, more supple and even less wrinkly. I reviewed the Pineapple Pash HERE and have since fallen big time for Watermelon Crush ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
Not these two particular flavours, but this balm will be in my kit forever, in one variety or another ♥♥♥...

InstaNatural Retinol Serum (30ml, RRP $32.77)

Embarrassed to say I bought this from iHerb several years ago when I was first researching retinol products, and never opened it! Well, my loss that's for sure - it's a gorgeous serum with a fabulously fresh citrus (orange?) scent. Contains Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide & COQ10 - an absolute powerhouse of anti-ageing ingredients. It had a use-by date towards the end of last year, but I figured that because I hadn't opened it, it would be ok. Well, it still gave me a little tingle and considering its age, I was pleasantly surprised at how much my skin seemed to love it - very runny but absorbs quickly, and my skin looked radiant, firm and with a more even texture ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
I might just to see if a fresh bottle performs even better to lighten my pigmentation - it's cheaper than the Neutrogena one below, but the shipping and waiting for it to arrive is a bit of a pain ♥♥♥...

La Roche-Posay Reactive Skin Micellar Water Ultra (200ml RRP $27.95)

This 100ml bottle came in a skincare bag - it's a lovely and very effective product, but I wouldn't normally buy it because of the price. There are other micellar waters that are just as good and cost half as much, and I only use it as a second cleanser anyway. I reviewed the Effaclar one for oily skin HERE and this one is very similar ♥♥...

Repurchase?
As nice as it is, probably not ♥♥...

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil (30ml, RRP $42.99)

I actually prefer this to the cream serum - I find it more effective and my skin seems to drink it in faster, which is interesting considering it's an oil, but there you go. It's a very light consistency, has barely any scent, and is effortlessly massaged into the skin. I stopped using it over the Summer (along with my other retinol skincare) and just finished up the last few droppers towards the end of March - love the cap with the push button that loads just the right amount into the glass tube ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
Already have, just using up a couple of other serums I've had on the bench for a while ♥♥♥...

Sukin Oil Balancing Charcoal Purifying Gel Cleanser (125ml, RRP $12.95)

I love this cleanser, but it usually only appears once every 12 months as there are others that I love just that little bit more. Still, it's a terrific product for my combination skin in the hot weather - low-sudsing and non-drying, but still takes off all the makeup and helps balance my oily-T ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yes but not till next November ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Neutrogena Make-up Remover Cleansing Towelettes (Pack of 25, RRP $7.99) 
Neutrogena Pink Grapefruit Oil-Free Acne Wash (175ml, RRP $14.99)
Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Make-up Remover (112ml, RRP $10.89) 
Sukin Oil Balancing Charcoal Pore Refining Facial Scrub (125ml, $12.95)
Swisspers Make-up Pads (Pack of 80, RRP $3.79)


Face Masks

BLAQ Charcoal Hydrogel Eye Mask (pack of 5, RRP $29.99)

I bought this second box from Priceline a while ago and then forgot about them. Used all five in March, but only one pic as I wore four pairs to bed! Love them, but sadly they only seem to be available from the BLAQ US website now, which means they are outside my beauty equation ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Not unless they are once again available in Australia ♥♥♥...

Lacura Charcoal Bubble Mask with Moringa & Green Tea Extract (Box of 3, RRP $4.99)

What a surprise this was! Just as good as the other brands I've tried, with the added bonus that there are three in the pack. If I see these again in Aldi, I will buy lots (COVID-19 purchase restrictions permitting of course). Below is my face once I removed the mask and wiped over with micellar water - deeply cleansed, smooth and hydrated. Incidentally, I do have eyebrows, but they are so pale and sparse, my camera barely registers them ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

In a heartbeat! ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Purederm Ginkgo Eye Puffiness Minimizing Patches (2 pairs, RRP $3)

Skin Republic Retinol Hydrogel Under Eye Patch (3 pairs, RRP $9.99)

Fragrance

Vera Wang Lovestruck Floral Rush EDP (50ml, Discontinued)

Lovingly reviewed HERE, I bought this in 2016 so it's taken the best part of four years to finish it. Lovely fresh and alluring fragrance for Spring/Summer and I shall miss the exquisite bottle ♥♥...

Repurchase?

Can find it on eBay, but negative - there are way too many others to try! ♥♥...

Hair

Vitality's Art Absolute Creme Peroxide 30 vol (500ml, RRP $5.99)

This is the Chemist Warehouse equivalent of what I normally by from Price Attack. Very cheap and seems to work just as well ♥♥... 

Repurchase?

Probably not as I don't get to CW as often as PA ♥♥...

Vitality's Art Absolute Hair Colour Cream - Ash Blonde (100ml, RRP $11.99)

Ditto the above but sadly the shade doesn't turn out as ash as the Salon Professional Supplies brand, in fact, it's more golden blonde than ash-blonde... 

Repurchase?

No...

Regulars

Goldwell Dualsenses Blondes & Highlights Anti-Yellow Shampoo (300ml, RRP $25.95)
Goldwell Kerasilk Control Shampoo (250ml, RRP $35.95)

Schwarzkopf Live Colour Pastels - Cool Grey, Metallic - Lilac Chrome & Denim Steel (RRP $5.49)

Schwarzkopf OSIS+ Sparkler Shine Spray (300ml, RRP $27.95)

Makeup

NYX Pore Filler (20ml, $21.95)
This has an almost identical texture and delivers results similar to my favourite DB Cosmetics Pore Minimising Primer - mattifies and smooths my face without making it feel tight or dry, and creates the perfect base for foundation. I bought it because it was on special and actually cheaper than the DB one, but the regular price is $7 more and has 5ml less product ♥♥... 

Repurchase?

If I can't get hold of my DB fave, then yes - always a good idea to have a backup plan! ♥♥...

Regulars

Australis AC On Tour Contouring & Highlighting Kit - Cool Tone Cream (RRP $24.95)

Maybelline Total Temptation Brow Definer (RRP $17.95)

Natio Define Eye Pencil - Steel Grey (RRP $14.95)


Giveaway

This month we have some faves from earlier posts...

• Eye of Horus Goddess Pencil - Charcoal Obsidian
• Eye of Horus Precision Sharpener
• Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash - Pink Grapefruit
• Nutrimetics Honey & Almond Scrub
• Nutrimetics Mineral Clay Masque

All items were purchased by me and the approximate value is $130.  The giveaway is open to...

Australian Residents Only! 

Here's how to enter...

1. Leave a blog post comment on this page that answers the question inside the Rafflecopter (please note: if you don't leave a comment on this page, you won't be included in the draw!) If you're unable to leave a comment for technical reasons, please email your answer to katshepsutt(at)gmail.com.
2. Leave your email address inside the Rafflecopter so I can contact you if you win
3. Follow my blog one way or another from the many choices listed
4. Only one entry per person, please read the T's & C's inside the Rafflecopter

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This giveaway is now closed  - check back later tonight to find out who won!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Woo hoo! - random.org has chosen the beautiful Ariane B. as the winner.  

Congratulations gorgeous! 

Ariane, please respond to the email I've sent you by midnight

Wednesday 29th April to claim your prize :-)

Edit: Ariane has claimed her prize ♥

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Best of luck to all who enter!

Take care of you, and keep safe,

kats xxx

December 2019 Empties & Giveaway!...

Another round of solid support for the retail sector! And getting in my December 2019 Empties post while the goodies are fresh in my mind, and before I resume the work routine, which will (sadly) restrict the frequency of my uploads, but on the other hand, will allow me to maintain my beauty addictions. ♥♥♥ I've also included a few little extras in the giveaway at the end to keep the spirit of Christmas going into what has been a devastating start to 2020 here in Australia. Praying those of you in fire-affected areas are all safe, and sending heartfelt thanks to all the brave Aussies working tirelessly to defend our beautiful country, and all the kind and generous souls offering their much-needed support in whatever way they can to the families and wildlife that are suffering ♥♥♥...

Body

Antipodes Deliverance Kowhai Flower Hand Cream (75ml, RRP $32)

Oh, I do so love this hand cream! Every application has been an absolute delight for its nourishing & moisturising properties (avocado, marigold & macadamia oils), the total absence of greasy aftermath, and the scent is right up my alley - orange and cedarwood, which is both comforting and refreshing. Don't like metal hand cream tubes from any brand, but this one at least didn't split before I used the last ml. Wherever I bought this from I certainly didn't pay $32 for it ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
Yes, but like most of my beauty purchases, I'm not prepared to pay full price, and probably not for a while as I have a stack to get through ♥♥♥...

Bosisto's Desert Lime & Eucalyptus Revitalising Hand Wash (300ml, RRP $6)

I think this is new - spotted it (and their body wash) for the first time not long ago at Coles, and pretty much any hand cleanser or shower gel that is SLS-free and not tested on animals will go into my trolley at least once. It's quite a pleasant scent, but the eucalyptus makes it a tad clinical - by that I mean a bit disinfect-y. Overall it's pretty good but has one flaw in the kats beauty ledger - it's too runny. When you depress the pump it has a tendency to squirt quite a long way (i.e. clean across the hand basin) unless you have your hand directly in front of it at the time. This happened in the rushing-out-the-door chaos of a workday morning and it landed on my top (grrrrr), so after that, I put it in the laundry to use it up ♥...

Repurchase?
No - it has a lot going for it, but the consistency is not what I could call user-friendly, and the marketplace has quite a few similar others that are way less squirty ♥...

Johnson's Pure Cotton Buds Applicators with Paper Sticks (Box of 150, RRP $2.69)

I used these for years then defected to another brand, but now I'm back and I'm staying. The only buds I (very carefully) insert in my outer ears because the tips don't ever fluff or fall off. They're also indispensable for cleaning my Bluetooth earbuds, makeup goofs, the insides of my lipstick tubes that get a bit mucky, and goodness knows what else. I keep the containers for bits and pieces like jewellery that needs repairing, collecting dead batteries for disposal, lipliner crayons that are too short for my standard holder etc. etc. They'll be in the Regulars section from now on ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
For as long as I wash my hair or wear makeup, which will, of course, be forever ♥♥♥...

Swisspers Dual Cosmetic Tips (Box of 100, RRP $2.99)

Another indispensable makeup tool, I use the pointy end to flick off unwanted mascara bits, tidy up my lipstick outline, and to clean my crayon sharpeners. The paddle end is brilliant for applying an extra touch of concealer or absorbing excess moisture from the eyelid crease. They've appeared before but will also join the Regulars section next time ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
They're sometimes hard to find so I stock up whenever I see them - currently four spares in the cupboard! ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Natures Commonscents Natural Goats Milk Body Wash (500ml, $8.00)
Reach Dentotape (20m, RRP $2.99)
SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Hydrating Body Wash (384ml, RRP $24.95)
White Glo Charcoal Total Mouth Detox Whitening Mouthwash (500ml, RRP $6.99)

Face

Klara Cosmetics Zero Pores + Primer (20ml, RRP $29.99)

Picked up two of these on clearance from Priceline without realising it was so expensive. It's actually a terrific primer and creates a beautifully smooth base for foundation, or I've even worn it on its own (around the house lol) - the clear silicone type but it doesn't leave any oily film on the skin surface like others I've tried, leaves the skin matte, smooth and even. It doesn't have any scent and it's not tested on animals. While Priceline no longer stocks the brand, they have a website, and this primer is listed as sold out ♥♥...

Repurchase?
While it's good, I doubt it - my fave one from DB Cosmetics is half the price ♥♥...

Neutrogena Pink Grapefruit Oil-Free Acne Wash (175ml, RRP $14.99)

Every summer I switch to a cleansing gel - the oil production in my T-zone goes into overdrive and I need something to control the flow as well as keep the blackheads from taking over. This time around I've renewed my acquaintance with this highly effective yet gentle-enough-for-mature-skin cleanser PURELY because I needed the pink grapefruit fragrance hit! I love it soooo much, especially in the really hot weather when I want something super refreshing at the end of the day. I used to buy the same thing as a scrub but I haven't seen it for years so it's probably discontinued - this one I can only find at Chemist Warehouse ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
Yep, bought another one 'cos I just can't get enough of the scent ♥♥♥...

Nivea Hyaluron Cellular Filler Day Cream SPF15 (50ml, RRP $27.99)

A bit embarrassed to say this was leftover from a beautyheaven trial in September 2018! I'd put it aside as I switched to retinol products and only just finished it now - no deterioration in the product though, and I gave it 5 stars in my bh review (about halfway down the page HERE). It's a beaut cream, but for me, its richness is better suited to cooler weather ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
I'll think about it closer to April ♥♥♥...

Nivea MicellAIR Skin Breathe Expert Make-up Remover (400ml, RRP $13.99)

Interestingly, I wasn't all that impressed with this, either as the main cleanser or second cleanser, even though it was quite effective. But then again I'm pretty fussy when it comes to the experience of a product. So this worked reasonably well at removing makeup, although I went through at least six cotton pads per go - the problem for me is that there isn't enough slip. I can't bear the feeling of something dragging over my skin - lord knows I don't need anything to pull my already sagging face, and I found this just didn't cut it, plus the remover pad started to disintegrate after the 3rd swipe, and that just doesn't happen with other products. The absence of a flip-top lid also niggled so I left the cap off permanently. Anyways, it has quite a lot going for it, but not for moi...

Repurchase?
No - I prefer a regular cleanser, washcloth, and micellar 2nd cleanse...

Sukin Rosehip Rejuvenating Facial Scrub (125ml RRP $13.95)

LOVED this! I'm mad keen on all Sukin scrubs, and this one just hit the #1 spot. I was a little nervous as I've given up some other rosehip products (from a different brand) because the scent was making me feel peculiar - not this beauty though. Such a gorgeous delicate fragrance and I love the texture of the scrub - not too grainy, but enough ground rosehip seeds and walnut shells to leave my face feeling smooth and soft ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

You betcha, and probably before any of the others from the range, that's how good it is ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Neutrogena Deep Clean Purifying Cooling Gel Scrub (100g, RRP $11.99)
Neutrogena Make-up Remover Cleansing Towelettes (Pack of 25, RRP $7.99) 
Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Make-up Remover (112ml, RRP $10.89) 
Olay Regenerist Miracle Boost Youth Pre-Essence (40ml, RRP $39.99) 

Face Masks
Regulars

Purederm Ginkgo Eye Puffiness Minimizing Patches (2 pairs, RRP $3)

Skin Republic Retinol Hydrogel Under Eye Patch (3 pairs, RRP $9.99)

Fragrance

Elizabeth Arden White Tea EDT (50ml, RRP $50)

One of my favourite spring/summer fragrances ever, I've decided I can't go through a sunny season without it. Bought this because of beautyheaven's review of it by @skincare junkie, and I was sold at first sniff. So pure, fresh and clean, my full review of it is HERE ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
I had assigned it the kats-can't-live-without status months ago and bought the 100ml bottle on special from feelingsexy for half price - score! ♥♥♥...

Hair

Goldwell Kerasilk Control Intensive Smoothing Mask (200ml, RRP $42.95)

Last appeared in December 2018 Empties post - this jar has lasted 12 months (instead of the usual 6) because I've been trying a couple of others that I scored, but this one is the ultimate. Nothing leaves my hair softer than this powerhouse, which is well worth the $$$ ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

Picking up another one tomorrow ♥♥♥...

Hi Lift True Colour Hair Colour Creme - Light Ash Blonde (100ml, RRP $6.95)

Soooo, my plans to no longer dye my hair with a permanent colour have been shelved for the time being. Basically, colouring with semi-permanent turned out to be exceptionally high maintenance, the results weren't necessarily as expected, the finish was sometimes uneven despite all my care and attention, and going to work with greenish, purplish or bluish hair wasn't quite the right look for my role lol. So I've resumed the permanent regime, just adding the semis to achieve the silvery grey colour I'm after. How I wish I could buy a permanent silver hair colour in this country! As for this dye, the pigment wasn't as potent as the Salon Professional Brand (below), but hey it was half the price... 

Repurchase?

Nope - I only bought this because the store was out of the other brand...

Salon Professional Supplies Creme Peroxide 20 vol (200ml, RRP $5.95)

This is the developer for the hair dye I'm using - comes in various strengths and it's not too stinky... 

Repurchase?

I determined that I need the 30vol for the base, and 10vol for the toner, so no...

Salon Professional Supplies Pro-Colour - Extra Light Ash Blonde (100ml, RRP $14.95)

This wasn't dark enough, but I'm still experimenting to find the right intensity. In conjunction with the peroxide, it doesn't seem to be too damaging a combo, but I will still be adding my Olaplex every time I colour ♥... 

Repurchase?

Will buy the Light or regular Ash Blonde as soon as they are back in stock ♥...

Regulars

Salon Professional Supplies Pro-Colour - Violet Toner (100ml, RRP $14.95)
Schwarzkopf Live Colour Pastels - Cool Grey, Metallic - Lilac Chrome & Denim Steel (RRP $5.49)

Makeup

NYX Cosmic Metals Lip Cream - Fuchsia Fusion (discontinued...sob)

The pinkest, fuchsia-est, most metallic, most vibrant, most compliment generating, most comfortable lip cream ever. Sorry NYX but what is wrong with you? Why oh why was this range a limited edition? The tube is empty, and my heart is broken ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
Would if I could, in a (broken) heartbeat ♥♥♥...

Tarte Shape Tape Contour Concealer (10ml, RRP $40)

Find of the month. Quite frankly, The Best Concealer I Have Ever Used. There...I've said it. This stuff covers ANYTHING and EVERYTHING and it doesn't crease, not even over and around my massive eye bags and the plethora of crinkles. At the end of the day, there is no change. Wow, I mean wow, the hype is true. I bought Light Neutral (22N) as it's a bit yellowy, perfect for my skin tone, and to cover the freckles under my eyes. I used to rave about IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye, but this Tarte is even better. Holey guacemoley, this is the one ♥♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
I have five other concealers, including two Kat Von D ones, but none of them is as effective, so yes, I just ordered another from Sephora ♥♥♥♥...

Regulars

Australis HD Translucent Loose Setting Powder (RRP $16.95)

Maybelline Total Temptation Brow Definer (RRP $17.95)

Giveaway

Up for grabs are...

• Olay Regenerist Pre-Essence
• Klara Cosmetics Zero Pores + Primer
• Elizabeth Arden White Tea Pure Indulgence Body Cream (100ml)
• Essence Crystal Power Eyeshadow Palette
• Essence Crystal Power Blush & Highlighter Palette (personal fave!)
• Lovisa Something Special Pale Pink Swarovski Halo Silver-tone Necklace & Stud Earrings set

All items were purchased by me and the approximate value is $135.  The giveaway is open to...

Australian Residents Only! 

Here's how to enter...

1. Leave a blog post comment on this page that answers the question inside the Rafflecopter (please note: if you don't leave a comment on this page, you won't be included in the draw!) If you're unable to leave a comment for technical reasons, please email your answer to katshepsutt(at)gmail.com.
2. Leave your email address inside the Rafflecopter so I can contact you if you win
3. Follow my blog one way or another from the many choices listed
4. Only one entry per person, please read the T's & C's inside the Rafflecopter

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This giveaway is now closed  - check back later tonight to find out who won!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Woo hoo! - random.org has chosen the beautiful Karen C. as the winner.  

Congratulations gorgeous! 

Karen, please respond to the email I've sent you by midnight

Wednesday 22nd January to claim your prize :-)

Edit: Karen has claimed her prize ♥

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Best of luck to all who enter!

Take care of you,

kats xxx

P.S. I've now included links to my reviews of the regulars wherever possible ♥