May 2020 Empties & Giveaway!...

Well, I think you can see from the picture what I've been working on the most during the last month of isolation lol - yes the old eye bags are starting to get the better of me so I've upped the frequency of the overnight eye patches to see if I can slow down the deterioration. They are helping quite a bit with the puffiness, and with the recent half-price sales of the Skin Republic range at Woolies & Coles, I think I can maintain the treatment for another month to see if a daily application is worth the expense. As for the rest of the May Empties, there are quite a few new discoveries in this bunch, although it's just my luck that some have been discontinued. All the same, here we go ... 

Body

Method Pink Grapefruit Naturally Derived Hand Wash - (354ml, RRP $5)

Fell in love with the colour and the scent of this hand wash - I SO have a thing about pink grapefruit, and this mix also includes blood orange and cassis. A truly lovely product that's gentle on the skin and looks so pretty on the vanity. Triclosan-free, biodegradable and not tested on animals, it has only one little flaw - the container becomes unstable once you get down to the last few centimetres ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Not yet - I may just buy the refill pouch and refill another less wobbly container ♥♥♥...

SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Body Wash - (384ml, RRP $10)

This came with one of my regular Shea Moisture orders - they had a deal at the checkout where I was able to select a free product, and this was what I went for. So glad I did because it's brilliant, and I've since ordered another. It's one of their Limited Editions, but one I hope will be available for a while. Super enriching, it's perfect for dry winter skin, and also contains African Rock Fig & Baobab Oil. Has a deliciously sweet honey-ish scent with a hint of fig, yum! ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Sure did ♥♥♥...

Regulars
Oral-B 3D White Luxe Glamorous White Toothpaste (96g, RRP $9.49)

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

MIÓD Skincare Balancing Face Oil  (30ml, RRP $45)

This partly used sample bottle has been on my bench for almost 3 years - embarrassing, and I didn't realise it had been that long until I looked it up on my blog to find out where it came from. It was the March 2017 edition of the Good Green Box, a subscription service that sadly is no more. Smells so incredibly DIVINE, I'm at a loss as to why I started using it and then stopped. But kudos to this brand as the product is just as delicious and stable, even after all this time, and leaves my skin feeling fabulously soothed, radiant and replenished. It's formulated especially for oily/combo skin - lightweight, and it absorbs magically. This is really something special ♥♥♥...
Repurchase?

I reckon so ♥♥♥...

Neutrogena HydroBoost Night Concentrate  (50g, RRP $26.99)

Bought this to try as I love the sheet masks in this range. Not so fussed on this - it was fine for the summer, but I didn't find it anywhere near moisturising enough for these cooler months. So pretty to look at though and it smells, hmmm, ok - it has little blue beads suspended in the gel, but I found they didn't always dissolve and stayed on my skin surface, which was a tad annoying. I think in general I'm not a fan of these new gel moisturisers - I don't like the sticky feeling they leave behind, I prefer the slip & slide of a standard formula ♥...

Repurchase?

I think not ♥...

Neutrogena HydroBoost Water Gel Cleanser  (145ml, RRP $15.99)

I've actually had this on the bench for over a year but didn't finish it off till now as I was so enamoured with their Pink Grapefruit Oil-Free Acne Wash throughout the hot season. Doesn't take up much space on the bench, nice fresh scent, highly effective on waterproof makeup, but didn't notice any benefit in the hydration department ♥♥...

Repurchase?

Maybe, but not till the weather warms up ♥♥...

Nivea 3-in-1 Urban Skin Detox Clay Wash  (150ml, RRP $9.99)

Love this - used it as a scrub as I also have the separate 1 Minute Mask in the same range. Green tea, black rice & kaolin clay - a great combo for my skin, gentle enough to use every day as the consistency is more like a polish, and I would except I get bored using the same thing too often. Leaves my face feeling soft and smooth, adore the clean fresh fragrance ♥♥♥...
Repurchase?

Yes, it's been replaced already ♥♥♥...

Olay Regenerist Whip UV Cream SPF 30  (50g, RRP $48.99)

My new #1 day-cream - I've always loved the Regenerist range, and I'm thrilled that they've introduced this Whip version with SPF 30. Used this all throughout the summer without any greasies emerging during the day. The scent is so lovely - fresh & invigorating and a pleasure to experience every time. Kicking myself a bit as I bought this and the Luminous one during the same bargain sale, so I need to use up that one next, but it doesn't have the same scent although it's supposed to minimise pores. Either way, I'm pretty impressed with Olay, just wish their jars were recyclable ♥♥♥...
Repurchase?

Absolutely ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Make-up Remover (112ml, RRP $10.89) 
Olay Regenerist Miracle Boost Youth Pre-Essence (40ml, RRP $39.99) 
Swisspers Make-up Pads (Pack of 80, RRP $3.79)

Face Masks

Anko (Kmart) Evening Primrose Botanical Eye Mask (2 pairs, RRP $3)

I did a rave review of the Raspberry Leaf variety last month, and haven't been able to buy them since - totally sold out! Fortunately, I bought these a few months ago, but I haven't seen them since either - I think COVID has a lot to do with their lack of availability in that they are made in China, and I reckon every second gal who's working from home has bought up the supply. They're terrific, cheap as chips, and if you ever see them on the racks, buy lots ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Would if I could ♥♥♥...

Anko (Kmart) Red Ginseng Botanical Eye Mask (2 pairs, RRP $3)

Ditto the above ♥♥♥...
Repurchase?

Ditto the above ♥♥♥...

Andalou CannaCell Glow Mask (50g, RRP $22.99)

This came my way via the beautyheaven Natural Beauty Event late last year - gave it 5 gold stars, and having finished the jar, still feel it deserves each and every one of them. My first experience with an enzyme mask - interesting green jelly with an unusual but pleasant botanical fragrance, and even more interesting stinging sensation when applied, though not to the point of being uncomfortable. I was expecting my face to be a slightly irritated pink when I washed off the cream, but it just looked more glowy and healthy than usual ♥♥♥...
Repurchase?

Definitely - I have four opened masks on the vanity at the mo' but will buy a jar once I finish one of them ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Skin Republic 24K Gold Aquagel Under Eye Patch (2 pairs, RRP $12.99)

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

mydentity demi-permanent Hair Colour - Silver Smoke (58g, RRP $28.95)

At last I've found a silvery grey hair colour that doesn't contain any yellow and doesn't fade to reveal golden highlights. It's been quite a struggle but I found this on the MyHairCare&Beauty website - one of those places that sell salon products. It costs twice as much as supermarket hair colour but when I want something really bad, I'll pay for it. This demi I used with 30 vol developer and it barely faded in 6 weeks - amazing! The only problem is it doesn't cover my white hair all that well so I'll be buying the permanent one next time ♥♥♥...
Repurchase?

You betcha ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Goldwell Kerasilk Control Shampoo (250ml, RRP $35.95)

Makeup

Australis Full On Foundation SPF30 - Natural Fawn (15g, RRP $18)

I have to stop buying foundation when it's on sale, and when I already have a stack to use up. This one was under $10 from the Australis website, and by the time I opened it and discovered how brilliant it was, there were none left because, again, it's been discontinued. The most amazing full coverage foundation stick that was a perfect skin tone match, didn't cake or crease, and it had SPF30. Why oh why did Australis stop making it? I even used a brush to poke down into the wind-up tube to get the last of it out. Sob! ♥♥♥...
Repurchase?

Not available any more ♥♥♥...

Maybelline Dream Liquid Mousse - Sand Beige (30ml, RRP $22.95)

I found this stuck down the back of one of my stash drawers - I think it's been there for a few years as I don't remember buying it, and the range has been discontinued. This is the problem when you have too many stash drawers! But I DO remember that I loved it, and considering it was unopened I decided to use it up. So glad I did because this is the perfect shade for me, and I love the formula - excellent coverage without looking gluggy or mask-like. Over the years I've been enamoured with just about any MNY foundation that has "Dream" in the name (and there's been quite a few) and this was no exception. Currently using their Dream Urban Cover foundation, so the love affair continues ♥♥♥...
Repurchase?

Not available any more ♥♥♥...

Maybelline Face Studio Prime Pore Minimising Primer (30ml, RRP $17.95)

This was on special from somewhere, but it's still available lol! Almost the same mousse formula/texture/finish as my fave DB Cosmetics one. Fills in the gigantic pores on my nose and an overall terrific mattifying primer. Creates a silky smooth base for foundation, and I apply it on the days I don't wear any makeup as it cuts the shine and makes my skin look better than it is ♥♥♥...
Repurchase?

Yes - this is a great alternative if my fave isn't available ♥♥♥...

Regulars

BYS Highlighting Palette (5 pans + brush, RRP $14.95)

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


Giveaway

This month I have a special "restriction-lifting" pack to celebrate the return to the workplace and a bit more socialising, but always with caution hey...

• Essence Hey Cheeks Blush, Bronzer & Highlighter Palette
• Nutrimetics Nourishing Lip Oil
• Nutrimetics Silk Creme Lipstick - Violet
• Nutrimetics Silk Creme Lipstick - Frosted Grape
• Nutrimetics Silk Creme Lipstick - Aztec Bronze
• Nutrimetics Silk Creme Lipstick - Scarlet
• Synergie Skin Sanitiser Spray for hands & surfaces

Here are the lipstick colours...

And here's what's inside the Essence palette (it has a clear plastic protective cover that's reflecting the light, which is why the pans look a bit wonky)

All items were purchased by me and the approximate value is $200.  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 Ingrid N. as the winner.  

Congratulations gorgeous! 

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

Thursday 18th June to claim your prize :-)

Edit: Ingrid has claimed her prize ♥

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Best of luck to all who enter!

Take care of you, and keep safe

kats xxx

April 2020 Empties & Giveaway!...

What a revealing month for Empties April was! With the rather sudden reduction in the volume of what I went through, it's pretty obvious that I use quite a lot of products for presenting myself to the outside world, and working from home combined with only venturing to the shops one day per week sure made a significant difference. I also decided to give my hair a break from any major colouring attempts and bought half a dozen newsboy caps instead lol. Still, there's a couple of interesting skincare items in this lot, so on with the reviews ♥...

Body

Black Chicken Remedies Axilla Deodorant Paste (15g, RRP $7.95)

Rated this #3 in my Top 6 Aluminium-free Deodorants (review HERE), and the only reason it won 3rd prize is because I have to use my fingers to apply it. Other than that little fussy-folly of mine, this stuff is legendary ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

If they made it in a stick form, you betcha ♥♥♥...

KOi Relaxing Body Wash - Jasmine & Sandalwood (500ml, RRP $8)

Beautifully fragranced, natural ingredients, great price, SLS & cruelty-free - a truly lovely body wash available from supermarkets, but just not quite enough hydrating power to meet my new baseline requirements ♥♥...

Repurchase?

Maybe next Summer ♥♥...

Schmidt's Bergamot + Lime Natural Deodorant (75g, RRP $13.99)

Schmidt's deodorants are my current #1 in the aluminium-free range, and I'm crazy about the Charcoal & Magnesium, Cedarwood & Juniper & Lavender & Sage varieties, but not this one. It works brilliantly and has a lovely zesty fragrance, but the little lumps in it (I think it's baking soda) are way too hard and scratchy - so much so I found this quite painful to apply. I bought it on special at Priceline so it may have been old stock and dried out, but I won't get it again just in case that's the way it is - it's just too harsh for my pits...

Repurchase?

No...

Regulars

Reach Dentotape (20m, RRP $2.99)

Shea Moisture African Black Soap Bamboo Charcoal Body Scrub (170g, RRP $10)

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

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

Face

Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream (50ml, RRP $205)

One of the ritzy-ditzy products in the 2019 lookfantastic Advent Calendar, and one I was super excited to try, especially given the rave reviews and hefty price tag. Well now, I'm a little puzzled as I really didn't find it fabulous at all. Mind you I only used it at night. On the plus side, it's a lovely textured cream, very light, and the tiniest amount spreads so easily and absorbs well, but I didn't find it the least bit special - there were no obvious improvements in my fine lines, moisture levels or elasticity. The fragrance was disappointingly bleah - like an old-fashioned el-cheapo cold-cream, but not even as pleasant as that. Marketed as "a revolutionary anti-aging product", sorry folks it didn't work for me...

Repurchase?

No way...

Indeed Labs Snoxin Facial Line & Wrinkle Fighting Serum (30ml, RRP ?)

This has been in my stockpile drawer for longer than I can remember (like maybe 2 years), and I probably shouldn't review it at all as it's no longer for sale (there is a new version Snoxin II). But the seal was intact so I decided not to toss it. Actually, a lovely and amazingly slippery serum which left my skin feeling so silky smooth, but there were no obvious improvements. The box said "4 x better than $500+ serums" - maybe mine was old and had lost its potency, but I can't discount how fabulous it made my skin feel, and would definitely try the new version ♥♥...

Repurchase?

Snoxin II, yes ♥♥...

Liar Wrinkle Cheater Eye Roller Serum (12ml, RRP $39.95)

This came in the July 2019 Bellabox, and because it has a metal roller ball, I put it away till the warmer weather as it felt so cold on my face. Silly me - it's SO good! The best roller-ball eye serum I've ever tried - I don't know how or why, but unlike every other eye cream with this kind of dispenser, the Liar ball never EVER drags on my delicate skin. On first application, there is an immediate tightening sensation, and my eyes look refreshed and feel perfectly hydrated. No improvement to my eye bags, but my crow's feet are less deep and the under-eye area especially has lost that crepey withered look - 100% natural ingredients too ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Ooh yes ♥♥♥...

L'Oreal Pure Clay Exfoliating Scrub (150ml, RRP $14.99)

Absolutely LOVE the smell of this scrub and how it leaves my skin so soft and de-flaked without being harsh, although I wouldn't use it on my old skin more than once a week. It's messy (like the charcoal one) so best used in the shower, but it's a great product and a great price. No less than three clays plus red algae ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yes ma'am ♥♥♥...

Nivea Q10 Power Anti-Wrinkle Replenishing Day Cream for 60+ Skin (50ml, RRP $23.99)

Trialled this for beautyheaven throughout the summer, I gave it 5 stars - my review is 4th from the bottom of the page HERE. Needs a light hand with the quantity or else there's a high probability of T-zone shine, but overall I loved it. So often the creams made for us oldies are way too rich for my skin and I end up with clogged pores, but not with this darling. The fragrance is fresh and delightful, and the price is surprisingly low, just wish it was 30+ SPF ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Sure will ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Make-up Remover (112ml, RRP $10.89) 

Olay Regenerist Miracle Boost Youth Pre-Essence (40ml, RRP $39.99) 

Face Masks

Kmart Raspberry Leaf Botanical Eye Mask (2 pairs, RRP $3)

My latest passion in the eye patch arena. These are as cheaps as chips, supremely comfortable, and surprisingly effective - they're the jelly type, almost invisible on the skin, and they slide down if you're standing up, but I wear them to bed. And at $1.50 a pop, I can afford them every night! These ones are for firming, and they also come in Red Ginseng for brightening, and Evening Primrose for hydrating ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Silly question lol ♥♥♥...

Regulars

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

Fragrance

Sarah Jessica Parker  Lovely EDP (30ml, RRP $9.99)

One of my faves, and the 30ml bottle is the perfect handbag size as well as being totally affordable - lovingly reviewed HERE ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Already have ♥♥♥...

Paco Rabanne Lady Million EDP (30ml, RRP $81)

The cutest little sample size, I forget how this came into my hands, but I'm glad it did as I sampled it years ago (when I was a different person ha ha) and didn't think much of it. Have definitely changed my mind about it, but maybe not quite enough to spend $80. Woodsy white flowers with a touch of orange and a base of patchouli. Quite the seductress, but I have caught a drift of it on quite a few gals, and that always puts me off a bit. Still, I might relent ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Maybe ♥♥♥...

Regulars

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

Hair

Kérastase Paris Densifique Densimorphose Treatment Mousse (150ml, RRP $48)

My stylist recommended this for my new spikey haircut, which needs some lift and has a tendency to reveal my scalp in places (and consequently my white roots if I've been slack), so I needed something to create a bit more fullness, and this is it. It doesn't make my hair all goopy and really fluffs it out without adding to the frizz. It's my first ever Kérastase product, and I'm already on my second can ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Affirmative ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Salon Professional Supplies Creme Peroxide 5 vol (200ml, RRP $5.95)

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

Schwarzkopf Live Colour Pastels - Cool Grey (RRP $5.49)

Makeup

Regulars

Australis HD Translucent Loose Setting Powder (RRP $16.95)

Eye of Horus Charcoal Obsidian Goddess Pencil (1.2g, RRP $30)

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

Giveaway

Ok, so this month we have up for grabs...

• Sarah Jessica Parker Lovely EDP 30ml
• Nourished Life Antibacterial Hand Sanitiser 125ml
• Shea Moisture African Black Soap Bamboo Charcoal Body Scrub
• Lacura Cherish Luxury Hand Cream with Peony Flower & Mandarin Oil Extract
• Peppermint Grove Patchouli & Bergamot Soy Candle 60g
• Colette Teardrop Diamante Stud Earring & Ring Set (Medium)

All items were purchased by me and the approximate value is $65.  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 Ange L. as the winner.  

Congratulations gorgeous! 

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

Wednesday 27th May to claim your prize :-)

Edit: Ange has claimed her prize ♥

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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

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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 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 ♥

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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 ♥