February 2020 Empties & Giveaway!...

Hi everyone and welcome to Autumn, which officially began with the equinox on Friday at 2:49pm. Just like our recent Summer, this Autumn is shaping up to be like no other - wherever you live, our world is changing and with it, our lifestyles and habits must change too. I plan to keep posting on my blog through these challenging times, so I hope you'll continue to join me here for reviews, empties and my usual monthly giveaway, which this time around is a special one for Mother's Day - it's not till May, but given the current global circumstances, I thought it best to get in early ♥... 

Body

Glow Lab Blackberry & Bay Body Wash (400ml, RRP $9)

Mmmm, can't decide whether I like this one more than the Coconut & Sandalwood one - let's just say they are equally delicious, but this scent is probably the one I'll go for just that little bit more in the cooler weather. I've tried quite a few products from their range, and have been pleasantly surprised by all of them - love that they're cruelty-free and even the pump is recyclable ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
New one in the shower, one in reserve ♥♥♥...

Schmidt's Charcoal + Magnesium Mineral Enriched Natural Deodorant (75g/92g, RRP $13.99/$19.95)

In my not-so-long-ago series on aluminium-free deodorants, I rated this second to Fresca roll-on, but I've done a switcheroo, and made this my numero uno. They are equally effective at controlling odour, but I reckon the Schmidt's wins by a butterfly's eyelash as far as keeping me dry, PLUS (and this is a biggie) the 75g size is available from my local Priceline store - not having to pay shipping is a bonus ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
Even though I'm working my way through the other locally available scents in the range, yes ♥♥♥...

Sensodyne Rapid Relief Original Toothpaste (100g, RRP $11.49)

My dentist gave me a sample size after I had some work done on a molar, and it sure helped reduce sensitivity after I had the crown fitted. Tasted good too, and there was enough in the tube for a week's use. He also gave me another brand which made my lips go numb (binned) so this would be my choice if I ever need something like this again ♥♥...

Repurchase?
Sure would ♥♥...

Regulars

Compeed Blister Plasters (Box of 5, RRP $12.95)
Johnson & Johnson Advanced Healing Hydro Seal Band-Aid  (box of 10, RRP $8.47)
Oral-B 3D White Luxe Glamorous White Toothpaste (96g, RRP $9.49)
Reach Dentotape (20m, RRP $2.99)
White Glo Charcoal Total Mouth Detox Whitening Mouthwash (500ml, RRP $6.99)


Face

Freezeframe Wrinkle Block Age Prevention Multi Stick (30ml, RRP $69)

I wrote quite an extensive review of this product last month (link HERE). This was my second stick and while I haven't quite finished the third, I don't think I'll be continuing on this path. Yes, it has made a difference to my fine lines, and my neck looks less craggy, but the deeper lines haven't budged since stick number 1, and there's still no impact whatsoever on my eye bags. The price is somewhat prohibitive, and at the end of the day, the benefits aren't sufficient for me to continue on for $70 a month. I've also decided that in my particular case, smooth texture, plumpness and radiance are more important than reducing wrinkles, so I just use it on my neck now ♥♥...

Repurchase?
If it's half price, maybe ♥♥...

Proactiv Amazonian Clay Mask (28g, RRP $?)

Interesting! This was sent to me to trial by beautyheaven over the Christmas period - I loved it, and even made a 3-minute video as part of my review. The text was published on 4th January, but no longer appears on the site, in fact, Proactiv is no longer listed full stop, so I guess they pulled the plug on the funding. Anyways, a beaut mask - quite thin, earthy scent that isn't overpowering, didn't make my face feel like it was going to crack up, and sent my blackheads packing ♥♥...

Repurchase?
Would if I could find it through an Aussie supplier, no luck so far ♥♥...

Regulars

Ecopure Bath Bamboo Fibre Face Cloths (pack of 2, RRP $12.99)
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 Advanced Anti-Aging Detoxifying Pore Scrub (150ml, RRP $14.99)


Face Masks

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

Love these and first wrote about them back in March 2018, but I can no longer find them at Priceline and they only seem to be available from the Blaq website. Pity as they're really something special. They do have a tendency to slip down if you walk around in them, but I've been wearing them to bed, and they seem to stay on long enough when I'm horizontal ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

If I can find them locally, yes ♥♥♥...

Regulars

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

Fragrance

Estee Lauder Pleasures EDP (50ml, RRP $105)

Still one of my favourite Spring-Summer scents - my 2014 review of it is HERE ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
Absolutely, but not till later in the year ♥♥♥...

Hair

Creative Image Adore Semi-Permanent Hair Colour - Platinum (118ml, RRP $16.45)

Well now, this was a bonus find at Price Attack - vegan and cruelty-free, I add this to my fortnightly colouring concoction, and mix a little into my conditioner to keep my tresses as ashy and yellow-free as possible. There are heaps of other colours in the range, but this platinum one works best for me. It's a mauvey mushroomy colour, and while I would prefer something more silvery, it'll do for now ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
You bet, another one and a spare ♥♥♥...

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

Brief review of this last month, but it won't be a regular - the shade doesn't turn out as ash or intense as the Salon Professional Supplies brand, and I only bought it because they were out of stock of my fave... 

Repurchase?

No...

Regulars

Goldwell Kerasilk Control Conditioner (250ml, RRP $34.95)

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

Makeup

Australis Stayput Long Lasting Retractable Lipliner - Romance (discontinued)

Boo to discontinued products! Great bricky-nude shade and lasted almost the whole day ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

Sadly it's no longer available ♥♥♥...

Mirenesse Smooth Nude CC Hydra Makeup Mousse (40g, RRP $50)

Raved about this last January and I still love it, but with Mirenesse products, you need to be a VIP member to get special discounts and free shipping ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

Probably not - I cancelled my membership when I was retrenched, and can't see myself rejoining any time soon ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Australis Ready Set Go Finishing Powder (RRP $13.95)

Maybelline Total Temptation Brow Definer (RRP $17.95)

Giveaway

With Mothers Day coming up soon, I decided to put together a special pack for a special Mum, rather than the same old favourites from the Empties collection. This bundle is made up of...

• Sweet Little Things Floral Scented Soap Petals
• Nutrimetics Fragrance Discovery Collection - 3 rollerball EDTs, Love & Courage, Fleurever & Breathtaking (personal fave reviewed HERE)
• Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Hydration Celebration Pack - Rose Quench Lip Rescue Balm, Quench Hydrating Primer, Drink of H2O Hydrating Boost Moisturiser & 4-in1 Setting Mist

All items were purchased by me and the approximate value is $110.  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

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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 Tracy M. as the winner.  

Congratulations gorgeous! 

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

Wednesday 1st April to claim your prize :-)

Edit: Tracy has claimed her prize ♥

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Best of luck to all who enter!

Keep safe lovelies, and take care of you,

kats xxx

January 2020 Empties & Giveaway!...

This was supposed to go up last Sunday, but the power went off due to the wild weather here in Sydney, and I lost 5 precious hours of blogging time that I wasn't able to find again - but huge thanks to the engineers who went out into the mini-cyclonic conditions to fix the grid! Anyways, here we are with the January Empties, and it's quite a biggish collection, with a few newbies on the block to keep you interested ♥... 

Body

Colgate Advanced Whitening Charcoal Toothpaste (170g, RRP $7)

While I'm perfectly happy with my Oral B Diamond White toothpaste, this was on special and I thought I'd give it a try. I must admit I was a little hesitant when I popped the seal and found the paste was striped grey and orange - a bit weird and I wondered how bright it would keep my choppers given the peculiar colour combination. Well, I needn't have worried as there was no reduction in whiteness, but no improvement either. I enjoyed the minty fresh taste ♥♥...

Repurchase?
I've gone back to my fave Oral-B, but I would buy this again if it was on special ♥♥...

Regulars

Compeed Blister Plasters (Box of 5, RRP $12.95)
Ecostore Vanilla & Coconut Body Wash - (400ml, $8.99)
Grahams Herbal Mineral Deodorant Roll-on (65ml, RRP $8.95)
Johnson & Johnson Advanced Healing Hydro Seal Band-Aid  (box of 10, RRP $8.47)
Reach Dentotape (20m, RRP $2.99)
SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Soap (230g, RRP $9.99)

Thankyou Botanical Lemon Myrtle & Goat's Milk Hand Wash - (500ml, $7.99)

White Glo Charcoal Total Mouth Detox Whitening Mouthwash (500ml, RRP $6.99)

Face

Derma-E Vitamin C Concentrated Serum (60ml, RRP $34.99)

The 7ml sample size (from I forget where) was just enough to get me excited - a delicate citrussy-scented serum that was an absolute pleasure to use, and I was somewhat peeved when it came to an end. Contains Hyaluronic Acid as well and is supposed to help with pigmentation - didn't expect any reduction within such a small usage time, but my skin felt and looked fabulous, supremely hydrated, and my foundation finish was smooth and sleek  ♥♥...

Repurchase?
I reckon I will - while I'm IN LOVE with the L'Occitane Reset serum, the price is somewhat daunting, and this would be a much more affordable option ♥♥...

Freezeframe Wrinkle Block Age Prevention Multi Stick (30ml, RRP $69)

The jury's still out on this one, but considering I'm on my third stick, that's a pretty good indication (question though, how come a solid stick gets measured in mls?). This was on special (40% off) and therefore irresistible to moi, the bargain hunter from way back, especially when it comes to trying new stuff. It's an odd little gem - a cream stick (not unlike a deodorant presentation) that you wind up as you use it. I've been swiping it over my forehead (special focus on my between-brows tramlines), crows feet, all around my mouth, and the base of my neck where it looks like what you'd see on a brush turkey. Applied to dry clean skin, the cream is kind of moisturising as you massage it in, and the blurb says no need for anything else, but I haven't found it anywhere near hydrating enough, so I added my day and night creams after waiting for 2 minutes, which is the recommendation on the box if you want to keep going with your usual routine. There's pretty much an instant smoothing of very fine lines, and it does seem to be cumulative, but I can't say for sure as I've been using it continuously. The deeper creases are taking longer to soften, but have definitely become more shallow, and the base of my neck isn't as horrendously wrinkled as it was. A substitute for botox? I think that's taking it a bit far, but my face does look quite a bit perkier, more refined, and definitely smoother and less lined. It's supposed to reduce eye bags by 76% in 7 days, but I've not noticed any change in my giant sacks. Still, I'm happy to not look so wrinkly elsewhere. There's a bonus when you get to the end - you can actually remove the little wheelie thing that the stick sits on, and scrape out enough leftovers for another 3 or 4 applications ♥♥...

Repurchase?
Yes, but I don't think it's worth full price - hopefully it'll be on special again before my current stick runs out ♥♥...

L'Occitane Immortelle Reset Overnight Oil-In-Serum (30ml, RRP $95)

Head over heels for this serum - in-depth review HERE ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
If I can afford it when my second bottle runs out, definitely ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Neutrogena Make-up Remover Cleansing Towelettes (Pack of 25, RRP $7.99) 
Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Make-up Remover (112ml, RRP $10.89) 
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream with Accelerated Retinol SA (48g, RRP $48.99) 
Sukin Super Greens Detoxifying Facial Scrub (125ml RRP $13.95)
Swisspers Make-up Pads (Pack of 80, RRP $3.79)

Face Masks

Skin Physics Oxygen-C Hydrating Velvet Mask (RRP $5.99)

If you like your face masks DRENCHED in serum, then this is the one for you. Literally dripping when you take it out of the foil pack, this is a major skin soaker and rehydrator, so if you're dealing with dryness, you'll be on cloud nine. Boasting ingredients like Vitamin C & B3 (Niacinamide), Allantoin & Hyaluronic Acid, this is the juiciest face mask I've ever tried, and it left my skin looking satin-smooth, and I didn't need anything else in my usual night-time routine to keep my skin soft and moisturised till the next morning. It has eyelid flaps, but I didn't use them as they were also dripping with serum and I didn't want to get any in my eyes ♥♥...

Repurchase?
Absolutely - this is one (make that half a dozen) to add to the next Priceline sale wishlist ♥♥...

Mirenesse Power Lift Superstar Eye Sheet Mask (RRP $14)

Nice patches that do a nice job of hydrating and firming the under-eye area. They stay put too which is always a bonus, but the price is a bit too much for me to use them on a regular basis ♥...

Repurchase?
No - I think the Skin Republic Retinol Hydrogel patches are just as good, and they're way less expensive ♥...

Regulars

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

Fragrance
Regulars
Ecoya Apricot & Tonka Bean Reed Diffuser LE (200ml, RRP $37.46)

Hair

Salon Professional Supplies Pro-Colour - Silver Toner (100ml, RRP $14.95)

I'm becoming an alchemist! I mix this in with the colour below and it seems to help reduce the golden lights that always seem to be present whenever I use an ash dye - doesn't seem to matter what brand I choose, I don't ever get a cool ashy finish, weird huh? Anyways I keep a tube of this on the shelf along with the Violet Toner and it helps a lot to get the shade I'm after  ♥♥...

Repurchase?
Yes ♥♥...

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

I'll be alternating this with the slightly darker Ash Blonde - over time, this shade ends up being too washed out on my white tresses, and the next shade deeper builds up and becomes too dark. Sigh, I wonder if fellas have any concept of what us gals go through? ♥♥...

Repurchase?
Already have ♥♥...

Regulars

Goldwell Dualsenses Color Revive Color Giving Conditioner - Icy Blonde (s00ml, RRP $32.95)
Goldwell Kerasilk Control Conditioner (250ml, RRP $34.95)

Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector (100ml, RRP $49.95)
Salon Professional Supplies Creme Peroxide 30 vol (950ml, RRP $5.95)
Salon Professional Supplies Pro-Colour - Violet Toner (100ml, RRP $14.95)
Schwarzkopf Live Colour Pastels - Cool Grey, Lilac Blush and Metallic - Lilac Chrome (RRP $5.49)

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

Makeup

Ecotools Wonder Cover Complexion Brush (RRP $24.99)

I raved about this brush HERE, but it seems to have a major flaw. The first one was sent to me in a PR pack, and it was BRILLIANT for about 3 months, and then started to shed really badly. I mean chunks of bristles mixed in with my foundation - eek! I thought it might be because I cleaned it several times in my rotating brush cleaner gadget, and figured I must have dunked it too deep, or else it was a production dud. So I bought another one, and only cleaned it with my makeup wipes, as I do with all my other brushes with zero negative effects, and...exactly the same thing happened after 3 months. Boo! So much for my glowing recommendation - sorry gals! I'm now using a Real Techniques Expert Face Brush with no problems whatsoever...

Repurchase?
Never again...

Rimmel Wake Me Up Anti-Fatigue Foundation (30ml, RRP discontinued)

Dang! Discovered this True Nude in a clearance bin in Priceline and fell instantly in love with it. I went back a week later but they'd sold out. Great colour for me in summer, gave me a flawless and fresh finish, and I'm shattered that it's been discontinued - now only available on eBay ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
Would if I could ♥♥♥...

RapidLash Eyelash Enhancing Serum (3ml, RRP $69)

I stopped buying this about 6 months ago from my usual (bargain) online source because it had stopped working for me. My eyelashes were back to where they were 6 years ago when I first discovered this magical formulation - short, sparse and barely there. I couldn't figure out what the problem was as I was using it nightly as always, but then I started to entertain the possibility that what I was buying was either old stock, or fake. So I decided to give it another go, but this time buying from Priceline ($20 more), and I was right, one way or the other. The brush on the ones I had that weren't working was a different colour (I think it was pink, can't remember exactly but I do remember I compared them) whereas this new one is orange. And voila - 6 weeks later, I was back to having long, lush and full lashes. So let this be a lesson to us all - bargain prices can sometimes mean out of date stock, or a case of the shonkies. My original (2014) review is HERE, and it still stands, so long as I buy it from Priceline ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
I bought two in the hope I was right, now waiting for it to be on special (she said hopefully) ♥♥♥...

Regulars

DB Pore Minimising Primer (25ml, $14.99)
Eye of Horus Nubian Brown Goddess Pencil (1.2g, RRP $30)

Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Liner (RRP $15.95)

Maybelline Total Temptation Brow Definer (RRP $17.95)

Maybelline Volume Express The Falsies Waterproof Mascara (RRP $19.95)

Giveaway

This being Valentines month, I decided to do something a bit more special - I'm giving away some of the gorgeous goodies (that I simply won't use) from my lookfantastic Advent Calendar...

• Bubble T Limited Edition Bath Bombs (mini) 3-pack - Salted Caramel
• Delilah Cosmetics Eye Brow Pencil - Sable (dark brown)
• Molton Brown Fiery Pink Pepper Bath & Shower Gel (100ml)
• Morphe 9A Eyeshadow Palette (pic HERE)
• Neal's Yard Remedies Wild Rose Hand Cream (50ml)
• Philip Kingsley Elasticizer Hair Mask (40ml)
• Sleek Makeup Highlighting Palette - Solstice (sealed)

All items were purchased by me (as part of the Advent Calendar) 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

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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 Gilded as the winner.  

Congratulations gorgeous! 

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

Wednesday 26th February to claim your prize :-)

Edit: Gilded has claimed her prize ♥

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Best of luck to all who enter!

Take care of you,

kats xxx

SPOTLIGHT: July Empties!...

Had another successful month of clearing the decks and making way for more stuff - think I'm on a roll lol! Again I had quite a few almost-used-up products, and hooray I'm coming to the end of those now, but the real thrill last month was finishing off four makeup items - honestly it's such a rare thing for me, but it does happen...eventually ♥...

Bodycare

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

Yep I'm a scentophile - I have this thing about products that perform brilliantly AND have a fragrance that resonates with every cell in my bod, and this is one of them. Super softening, non-greasy and smells DEE-VINE (lemon myrtle) ♥...

Repurchase?

Yes, Yes, Yes! ♥...

Original Source Lime & Coconut Milk Moisturising Shower Milk (250ml, RRP $4)

Reviewed HERE -  my skin has been extra dry this winter, and even these moisturising shower milks haven't been hydrating enough (along with quite a few other brands), so I've been adding a squirt or two of Dermaveen Shower Oil to my flannel when I use them, and that does the trick...

Repurchase?

Yes but not for a few months as I have NO SPACE lol...

Original Source Green Banana & Bamboo Moisturising Shower Milk (250ml, RRP $4)

Ditto above...

Repurchase?

Same goes for this one...

Pearl Drops Instant Natural White Charcoal Innovation Toothpaste (75ml, RRP $11.99)

Gave this a go because of the charcoal content. So far I haven't found either a charcoal powder or a toothpaste that whitens my teeth any more than mainstream whitening brands. This has a delish minty flavour, but like so many other products with charcoal content, it's messy. The paste is dark purple so you'll need to rinse thoroughly after use or else your lips and teeth give you a very nice zombie look...

Repurchase?

Not unless I decide to ONLY clean my teeth while I'm in the shower...

Skincare

Antipodes Avocado Pear Nourishing Night Cream (60ml, RRP $55.99)

So I'm officially stating that this moisturiser is my overnight HG - this pot of goodness does everything for my skin that I want it to in the nourishment & hydration department, and the fragrance blisses me out. I SO look forward to my nightly cleanse just so I can use this! Actually I'm fast becoming an Antipodes addict. Contains Avocado Oil, Manuka Honey Active 20+ & Vinanza Grape. The scent comes from sandalwood, ylang ylang & patchouli essential oils. Euphoria! ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Forever ♥♥♥...

Be Fraiche The Flower Face Cream (50 ml, RRP $35)

Interestingly this is a close second to the Antipodes cream - very similar fragrance (scented with Frankincense & Patchouli), enriching but not heavy or greasy. Like the one above, massaging it into my face is the most pleasurable experience. This adorable sample pot came my way in the Bloggers United AU goodie bag last year, another instance of me being very silly to wait so long to try it ♥...

Repurchase?

Definitely - it's not as expensive as the Antipodes, and I'll use it as a day cream ♥...

Bioten Skin Moisture Micellar Water 3-in-1 (200ml, RRP $4.99)

Reviewed HERE - I'm slowly working my way through the huge collection of micellar waters I amassed when I was doing the series. One more bottle to go and then I'll resume where I left off...

Repurchase?

I would actually but not for a while - it's effective and good value, but I still have 5 bottles to finish up...

BotanicES Natural Caffeine Face Creme (50ml, RRP $45)

As mentioned in earlier empties posts, this moisturiser will always be in my kit. While I find myself needing something more potent for overnight at this time of year, this is the cream I fall back on whenever my pores become congested with anything else I'm using, and it's the perfect consistency and formula for summer when my skin can't take anything too heavy ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Already have, I say again it will always be in my kit ♥♥♥...

Freezeframe REVITALEYES (15ml, RRP $69)

A delightfully refreshing gel, sadly this did nothing for my vast array of issues. For the price I was hoping for a mini-miracle, but perhaps I'm too far gone for it to have any effect. Mind you my wrinkles and bags didn't get any worse during the time I used it, but there was no obvious improvement. After reading reviews around the internet, it seems folks either love it or are very disappointed, given how expensive it is...

Repurchase?

No - I've had noticeable and ongoing improvements from other eye products for the same price or less...

Jojoba Natural Pigmentation Oil (30ml, RRP $39.99)

Designed to target age spots, uneven skin tone and pigmentation, I was very excited to try this product. It's lovely, comes in a gorgeous shimmery orange bottle, has a very pleasant smell and my skin seemed to drink it in, but as with anything else in my skincare experiments, if I don't see any noticeable benefits by the time I get to the bottom of the container, then I tend to write it off, and that's what happened here...

Repurchase?

I'll think about it...

L'Oreal Revitalift Laser Renew/Laser X3 Eye Cream (15ml, RRP $44.95)

Well now, I'm on the fence with this one - I noticed an initial improvement in the first week as far as firming is concerned, so it scores points for that, but no change thereafter. Interestingly the blurb says to apply it to the under eye area, but no mention about the region above, and I need something that will work everywhere. Mind you so far my bags are defying just about anything. Nifty metal (somewhat phallic-shaped) applicator, but I never like these things so I always dispense onto my pinkie...

Repurchase?

Maybe not...

Skin Therapy Dragon's Blood Sculpting Serum (30ml, RRP $30)

Another beaut product I fall back on when I'm disappointed by anything else similar, as it really helped firm my jawline. Having fallen in love with Antipodes Hosanna, and with four other serums lined up to trial, this may or may not reappear in one of these future posts...

Repurchase?

I might just keep one in reserve for emergencies lol ♥...

Face Masks

Garnier SkinActive Hydra Bomb Pomegranate Tissue Mask (RRP $5)

Aimed at normal to dehydrated skin, for me this Pomegranate variety is the least hydrating of the three available. I actually found it to be better for firming and tightening - go figure? ♥♥......

Repurchase?

Certainly - I need a ton of firming and tightening, and for $5, well it's a sure bet ♥♥...

Garnier SkinActive Hydra Bomb Chamomile Tissue Mask (RRP $5)

My favourite of the three in the range - in a word, calming. One of the most relaxing sheet mask experiences, target is sensitive or dry skin, neither of which I have but this was just so lovely. The only reason I didn't doze off completely is because I left the packet on my forehead after I took the piccie, and it slid off when I started to turn on my side, which I do just before I go to sleep, but never do when I'm wearing a mask, but hey I was just so relaxed ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

Oooh yes ♥♥♥...

Skin Republic Youthfoil Mask Sheet (25ml, RRP $14.99)

Raved about this back in the May Empties post and I'm still of the same opinion - up near the top of my list of fave sheet masks ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Without a doubt ♥♥♥...

Skin Republic Detox Charcoal 10-Superfood Formula (25ml, RRP $9.99)

This is a special one - it doesn't just deep cleanse and hydrate, but it also feeds the skin. So many nourishing ingredients - Acai Berries, Chia Seeds, Quinoa, Spirulina, Black Tea, Rosehip, Avocado and Quinoa. I swear I could feel my face drinking in all the goodness ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Already have ♥♥♥...

Skin Republic Platinum Lift (25ml, RRP $7.99)

Like all SR sheet masks, this was supernally hydrating and came with oodles of serum so there was plenty to massage into my neck and hands after I was done. Not sure that it's special enough for me to buy again though - some of their others are knockouts, and I'd rather concentrate on the ones that make a big difference rather than a small one...

Repurchase?

Maybe not, but I won't say never...

Skin Republic Brightening Eye Mask (3 pairs RRP $9.99)

No photos 'cos I applied them on week nights, but I used the remaining pairs last month instead of the Collagen Hydrogel patches. They do different things, so there's a place for both, and I won't give up my collagen patches ever again, not for anything. The patches firm, whereas these eye masks cover the entire eye area, and are deliciously hydrating.

Repurchase?

Will do, but I want to try a couple more brands before I get back into these again...

7th Heaven Dead Sea Mud Pac (20g, RRP $3.99)

Only the second one from this brand I've tried, but I'm in love. You know that fabulously fresh salty smell and feel your skin has when you've had a day at the beach? Well this gives you the same, only there's additional aquatic fragrances and hydrating ingredients, and it doesn't leave your skin feeling parched, quite the contrary actually. Contains kaolin, Dead Sea salt, Dead Sea mud, seaweed extract and lavender oil to name a few of the goodies in the mix. Yes it's messy, but aren't they all ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Affirmative - I've already bought the big tube ♥♥♥...

Haircare

Amazon Series Muru Muru Anti-Frizz Smoothing Masque (250ml, RRP $29.95)

My new hairdresser recommended this to help maintain the benefits of my keratin treatments. I like it because I don't have to leave it on for a long time to reap the rewards, and therefore I can give my tresses a hit while I'm showering, and in between post-colouring deep conditioning.  It has a lovely natural fragrance, and leaves my hair silky soft. Don't like the container as it's difficult to unscrew the lid and scoop out the product with the shower running, but I can live with that ♥...

Repurchase?

Bought a replacement the last time I had a trim ♥...

Kevin Murphy Smooth.Again.Wash Smoothing Shampoo (250ml, RRP $38.95)

Another recommendation from my stylist. Nothing special and not as good at smoothing fly-aways as my HG Reference of Sweden, but I can't buy that any more so was prepared to try something else. Not keen on the rectangular packaging with the cap sticking out design as it's an awkward shape to fit in my storage hangers. I've since found a salon that sells the entire Goldwell Kerasilk range, and I'll probably stick with that...

Repurchase?

No...

Kevin Murphy Repair.Me.Rinse Reconstructing Conditioner (250ml, RRP $42.95)

Whether this worked or not (it did) I would buy it again for the fragrance alone. If it was an EDP I would wear it every day. There's something about the scent that makes my whole body sing. I stand there in the shower taking deep breaths because it's so fabulous - must be the papaya and the pineapple. Anyway it's also a beaut 2 minute conditioner, and this particular rectangular bottle shape (with the cap on top) is workable ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Heck yeah - even if I only use this once a week, I need that fragrance hit ♥♥♥...

Makeup

Estée Lauder Little Black Eyelash Primer (6ml, RRP $45)

A gift from my gorgeous friend Amy at Health and Beauty Girl. Chatted about it HERE, lovely product but not an essential - thrilled to have had the opportunity to try something like this though...

Repurchase?

Probably not...

Eye of Horus Goddess Mascara (8g, RRP $34.95)

My weekend mascara. It's so good I'd wear it every day, but I need fibres in my mascara for as long as I'm taking photos - my lashes just don't show up in the pics if I don't. But this is a beautiful mascara, full of natural and mostly organic ingredients. I treat my lashes to its goodness on Saturdays and Sundays, and I feel them breathe a sigh of relief when I start stroking it on ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Absolutely ♥♥♥...

IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Cream (32ml, RRP $58)

My HG primer, will always be in my kit, deliriously ecstatic review HERE, except that Sephora is out of it at the moment - holey cow, I'm trying not to panic! Had to wait 6 months for them to restock the Bye Bye Redness cream- oh how I wish I could buy this somewhere else. Once it's available I'm going to order 3 so I'm never without it again (although one tube does last me for 6 months) ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

I'm waitlisted...sob ♥♥♥...

Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Liner (RRP $15.95)

My HG under-eye liner, has been for years - never smudges or smears, and I rarely (if ever) make a mistake when I use it. In my book it's goof-proof ♥♥♥......

Repurchase?

No less than 3 spares in my drawer ♥♥♥...

How did you go last month lovelies - got rid of some clutter?

Take care of you,

kats xxx

P.S. Here's the link to Ingrid's Monday Makeup Madness Link Up - come say gidday after 6:30am...