February 2021 Empties & Giveaway!...

Hope March has been kind to you - it's the busiest time of the year for me workwise as my employer has a 31st March End of Financial Year. So it's been 12-hour days for me for the last three weeks, and not much left in the tank for personal activities like blogging - boo! But the end (of the month) is in sight, and I've managed to put together my smallest Empties collection in a long, long time. I guess it's because there were only 28 days in February - either that or I have way too many products on rotation. Anyways, here we go with a very limited post, but a nice little collection of Nutrimetics goodies in the giveaway...

Body

Help@Hand 100% Pure Cotton Tips (200pk, RRP $2?)
I bought these because at the time they were the only ones available at Woolworths. Almost as good as Johnson's, which I don't seem to be able to buy anywhere any more. They are quite good quality, and the recyclable box has a hinged click-down lid, which I'll use to store broken jewellery or other bits and pieces ♥♥...
Repurchase?
Out of stock at the moment (which is why I'm unsure of the price), but yes ♥♥...

Regulars
Colgate Plax Alcohol Free Gentle Mint Mouth Wash (500ml, RRP $6.49)
Natural Secrets Goatsmilk Moisturising Shower Gel (500ml, RRP $9.95)
Reach Dentotape (100m, RRP $9.99)
Schmidt's Lavender + Sage Natural Deodorant (75g, RRP $13.99)
Swisspers Makeup Pads (Pack of 80, RRP $3.99)
Weleda Lavender Creamy Body Wash (200ml, RRP $19.95)

Face

Bioré Yuzu Lemon + Dragon Fruit Brightening Exfoliating Scrub (103.5ml, RRP $9.99)

Absolutely crazy about this scrub - the lemon & dragon fruit scent is so tangy and refreshing in the morning, totally wakes me up. The beads are firm and fine (I think they are made of wax) but have enough oomph to shift any flakey bits without causing any irritation, and my skin feels super smooth afterwards. Didn't notice any brightening effect, but I never really give a scrub a chance to perform as advertised because I use a different one each day. In summary, this is a winner ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Ooh yes ♥♥♥...

IT Cosmetics Confidence in an Eye Cream (15ml, RRP $59)

I won this in a set from an Adore Beauty Instagram comp. A wondrous cream that improved the appearance of my under eye area from the first application. The pale apricot tint instantly neutralises any darkness (which I didn't realise I had) and brightens and refreshes the skin. Overall I looked less tired, and that's certainly a bonus. I found it to be sufficiently hydrating for my dry skin, my concealer sat nicely throughout the day without any creasing or flaking, and it even seemed to firm my eye bags a little. My only beef is that once the level drops, it's quite difficult to extract the cream without a spatula due to the squat shape of the jar. A minor irritation though, this is a beauty ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

I'm going to try my fave Olay one again for comparison - depending on the results I may well buy this one in future ♥♥♥...

Regulars

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)

Sukin Super Greens Detoxifying Facial Scrub (125ml RRP $13.95)

Fragrance

Chi Chi Strawberry & Violet EDP (50ml, RRP $19.95)

The next empty bottle of this beautiful scent will be in the Regulars section. Adore this, and it's one of the few fragrances that I buy over and over again. Review from when I first discovered it back in 2015 is HERE ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Already have, I can't live without this sweetheart in my life ♥♥♥...

Hair

Regulars

Hi Lift True Colour Hair Colour Creme - Extra Light Intense Ash Blonde (100ml, RRP $7.50)

Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector (100ml, RRP $49.95)

Wella Koleston Perfect Permanent Creme Colour - Special Mix Clear (60g, RRP $19.97)

Makeup

Real Techniques Expert Face Brush (RRP $22.99)

I used this to blend my foundation (stick or liquid kind) - it was excellent for literally pushing the cream into my gaping pores, and left me with a streak-free flawless finish. Bought it 12 months ago and was quite impressed, but it started to shed badly, so I switched to a Manicare Glam one, which is going splendidly so far ♥♥...

Repurchase?

I've not found a foundation brush that survives longer than a year, so...maybe ♥♥...

Sephora Color & Sculpt Stick - 01 Clear Light (5.5g, RRP $19)

One of the more successful attempts I've made at finding a cream contour that's a suitable colour for my skin tone. Most on the market are too orangey, and my favourite Australis palette that had the perfect shade has been discontinued. This one worked quite well, although I still had to mix it with a lighter yellowish pan from another brand. The search continues ♥♥...

Repurchase?

If I'm unable to find a better colour match, then probably yes ♥♥...

Regulars

Maybelline Brow Ultra Slim Eyebrow Pencil - Blonde (RRP $15.95)

Giveaway

A truly pampering treat for any of you wanting to try some Nutrimetics products...

• Blossom Bouquet Fragrance Diffuser
• Magic Eraser Body Exfoliating & Polishing Cleansing Glove
• Nutri-Rich Bathing Bar
• Nutri-Rich Gentle Foam Body Wash
• Nuri-Rich Nourishing Body Butter

All items were purchased by me and the approximate value is $160.  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 see 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 7th April to claim your prize :-)

Edit: Tracy has claimed her prize ♥

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Best of luck to all who enter!

Take care of you, and keep safe,

kats xxx

SPOTLIGHT: September 2018 Empties & Giveaway!...

Whoa, what happened to September? Soon it will be Halloween with Christmas not far behind, closely followed by another year coming to a close. There always seems to be an acceleration of time in the last few months of the year, probably because there's quite a bit going on in the celebration and social scene (let's not forget Melbourne Cup), so before October sinks into the sunset, here are my Empties from last month ♥...

I haven't listed the Skin Republic Collagen Hydrogel Under Eye Patches or the Purederm Ginkgo Eye Puffiness Minimizing Patches because I use them every month, without fail ♥...

Body

Dove Go Fresh Rejuvenate Pear & Aloe Vera Body Wash (375ml, RRP $6.99)

This was left over from last summer and one of the few remaining body washes in my caddy that contains SLS. It's such a shame as it smells divine, and it really is quite moisturising, but I'm determined to eliminate this ingredient from my shower-time ♥...

Repurchase?

Not until Dove removes SLS from their formulas ♥...

Johnson & Johnson Hydrocolloid Band-Aids (Box of 10, RRP $8.47)

Covered these in a post last November - the only band-aids I buy these days ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Always have a box or two in the house ♥♥♥...

Natures Commonscents Goats Milk & Oatmeal Scrub with Vitamin E (600ml, RRP $8)

For my winter skin, I tend to go for more gentle body scrubs, but use them more frequently (every other day) to keep on top of the flakies, and this one from Natures Commonscents is ideal for a mild sloughing that's non-drying. My skin always feels more fragile in the cold weather, and I find the oatmeal content to be calming & restoring, and the goats milk is always a winner for softening and hydrating. This is a massive bottle for the price, and whaddya know, I've just found a coupon for a $4 discount at Woolworths (HERE) which is valid till the end of February 2019! The formula contains no sulphates, parabens or poly beads (oatmeal flakes are the exfoliators), the scent is oaty (is that a word?) and very mild, and this company doesn't test on animals ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Absolutely, and especially when it's half price with the checkout voucher ♥♥♥...

Nutrimetics Ultra Care+ Extreme Night Hand Repair (100ml, RRP $44 for Day/Night)

This is one half of a hand repair "kit", which includes a pair of white cotton gloves for extra nighttime protection, and the other tube is a day cream that contains SPF15. I haven't been using the day formula because it's quite greasy, the SPF fragrance is strong, and to be honest I don't see the point of sun protection in a hand cream unless you're going to reapply it every time you wash your hands, which for me is all the day long. But this night formula is awesome! I've had some very intense and large freckles on my hands since my childhood, and nothing NOTHING has worked as effectively as this cream to fade them. I mean I've tried at least 5 different spot fading products over the years, and religiously applied a well-known cream twice a day for 12 months (plus the accelerator) and didn't get results close to what I have seen in 3 months with this gem ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

I've already bought another set (on special) - initially, the plan was to include the second tube in my usual monthly giveaway below, but sorry not sorry, I need it! ♥♥♥...

Face

Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm (125ml, RRP $55)

This was gifted at the beautyheaven Turns 10 Birthday Bash last October, and one of the two reasons why I've converted to a balm for winter cleansing (the other is below). I'm quite late to board the balm bus, but I'm sitting comfortably in my seat and expect it to be a rewarding and comfortable journey. This stuff is miraculous and actually warms the skin while it cleanses, which makes it a cool weather only product, but one I'm thrilled to have discovered. So gentle yet so effective, this is quite solid until you scrape some onto your hands, and then it melts into an oil in a flash. Deeply cleansing and hydrating, non-greasy or oily, and for those with sensitivities, it's also fragrance-free. I add a little water after massaging it all over my face and then wipe off with a damp cloth. The jar is made from lilac-coloured super sturdy plastic, and I've kept it as a container for one of my scrubs that's in a glass jar (no glass in the shower!). My beautyheaven review of it is 3 from the bottom of the page HERE. Adore it! ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

Definitely, but not till next Autumn ♥♥♥...

Nutrimetics Nutri-Rich Cleansing Balm with Apricot Oil (100ml, RRP $39)

Went on about this in a dedicated posted back in June HERE. Another balm that I'm totally sold on, and with the delish Apricot Oil scent, my fragrance craving is satisfied. I've been alternating this with the one above, and my usual cold season shrivelled snake-skin face just didn't happen this year - woo hoo! ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

Definitely, but not till next Autumn ♥♥♥...

L'Oreal Age Perfect Cell Renewal Revitalising Day Cream SPF15 (50ml, RRP $44.95)

I trialled this set for beautyheaven back in March and gave it 5 stars. Actually, I always give L'Oreal skincare 5 stars as it's always so good, and my face loves ALL of their products. The problem is which one do I stick with? This one has black truffles included in the formula, and while it's a bit SPF stinky, it sure is a lovely cream that left my complexion amazingly smooth and soft, and the black and gold packaging is so ritzy looking ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

Possibly, probably - I do love it, but I'm always drawn back to the Laser X3 range, and then again I've just finished trialling the Intense Nutrition range which I also loved. Sheesh, what a dilemma! ♥♥♥...

Olay Luminous Micellar Water with Rice Bran Extract (237ml, RRP $12.99)

Regular readers will know of my fascination for micellar waters and the fact that I've tried literally dozens. I actually published a whole series called Micellar Magic back in 2016, and have since road tested even more. Overall they were pretty good, some were better than others, one was awful, and regrettably, this one is awful too. I bought it because it was Olay, and it had a groovy dispenser cap where you place the cotton pad on the top and push down, and the pump squirts the right quantity of product onto the pad. It took me a while to get used to this little gadget - when you're done, you have to remember to twist it anti-clockwise to lock it or else water squirts out when you snap the cap closed. Fine. I can adjust, but the product itself was quite weird - it's fragrance-free but smells peculiar, and I found it dragged over my skin (give my old face some slip puh-lease!), and then the pad started to break up. I also found it quite drying, and didn't see any luminosity. In short, I tipped it out after a week - I have so many on the shelf that I know are great. Sorry Olay, for me this was a fail... 

Repurchase?

No, just no...

St. Ives Blemish Control Apricot Scrub (150ml, RRP $9.99)

My ancient (2014) review is HERE, but nothing's changed - I still love it and it's still a regular in my scrub collection ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

Always ♥♥♥...

Voeu Micellar Water with Witch Hazel Extract (200ml, RRP $4)

For four bucks, this is a beauty and great value. Has a barely there witch hazelly scent, cleanses effectively, doesn't dry out my skin, and there's plenty of slip. Also contains Provitamin B5 & Hyaluronic Acid. The only thing I don't like is the screw cap - give me a flip top any day! Available from Woolworths and BigW only ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

I still have a backlog to clear, but yes this is on my repurchase list ♥♥♥...

Face Masks

Eaoron Ultimate Botox Mask (Box of 5, RRP $29.95)

Quite impressed with this - firming, hydrating, smoothing, and I picked up the box on special for half price, so each mask worked out to be $3! It's one of the best face-fits I've experienced - unusual because it completely covers both upper and lower eye area (with zero stinging), and even includes lips. Sort of a one-sheet-does-everything approach, and I love it. Hardly a substitute for Botox, but it'll do for what I want ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

I reckon so - even at full price ($5 each), this is great value for the total coverage and excellent results ♥♥♥...

L'Oreal Paris Pure Clay Detoxifying & Brightening Charcoal Mask (50ml, RRP $19.95)

My favourite of the range, always leaves my face feeling deep cleansed and helps to refine my pores. Like most charcoal products it stains my washcloth, but it's a clean stain, right? ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

I will for sure as soon as I get through a couple of others on the shelf  ♥♥♥...

Minenssey Deep Cleansing Mask (Box of 9, RRP $79)

A selection of all four kinds was gifted at the bh Best in Beauty Event last month. It's a beautiful formula that unlike most creamy masks, doesn't actually dry out or feel tight on the skin. There are 9 single-use "pods" in the box, so the ingredients are always fresh and active. It's quite an indulgence (but one I deserve!) and left my skin feeling calm, cool, super clean and lovingly pampered. Lots of Australian plant extracts plus green clay ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

I'm in two minds about these masks - they are divine and the presentation is exquisite, but I have concerns that you have to buy a whole box and brush every time, a refill option would be great ♥♥♥...

Olay Magnemasks Infusion Rejuvenating Sheet Mask (Box of 5, RRP $28.99)

Oh yassss! I loved this so much I went out and bought another box the next day. The simplest easiest to use mask ever - no backing sheets, you just tear open the sachet and fit the two pieces onto your face. They cover just about every area and this particular flavour targets fine lines & lack of firmness. I didn't buy the magnetic gadget that you use afterwards to push the leftover serum down deep, but I may indulge at a later date. My skin looked so good after this ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

It's a sure bet - I just LOVE that Olay products are so often on special too ♥♥♥...

Skin Republic Platinum Peel-Off Face Mask (3 applications, 27ml, RRP $12.99)

I've never been a fan of peel-off masks. Apart from the concern about stretching my skin unnecessarily, I'm one of those gals with peach fuzz - I have tiny little hairs all over my face, and when it comes to peeling off the mask, it's almost as painful as waxing, although the hairs aren't removed.  But I decided to try this and the 24K gold one to see if the results were worth the pain, and the answer is yes. This formula supposedly contains real diamond powder - what that does I have no idea but my skin looked pretty darn good afterwards. It also contains 6 fruit acids for a chemical exfoliation. The blurb says it's for preventing premature ageing - too late for moi! ♥♥...

Repurchase?

Probably not - I think the gold one works better for me ♥♥...

Skin Republic 24K Gold Peel-Off Face Mask (3 applications, 27ml, RRP $12.99)

Ditto the above, just substitute 24K gold for platinum. No diamond powder, but holey guacemoley, how smooth and youthful does my skin look in the pic below? Whoa! Pity it doesn't look that way when the mask is peeled off ha ha. Anyways as you can see this one applies far more evenly than the platinum one (I used a brush for both) and left my skin texture looking more refined with smaller pores all over, and in general my face felt cleaner. The target for this one is fine lines and wrinkles, and they sure disappear while you're painted ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yeah - even though it's quite torturous, the results are worth a few minutes of discomfort ♥♥♥...

BeautyCare (Kmart) Rosehip Under Eye Patches (3 pairs, RRP $2)

Also in the above pic are these el-cheapo cloth patches from Kmart. Wasn't prepared for them to be so good, but they were! Reduced my eye bags considerably (if only temporarily) and the serum was so softening, I put one on my lips too. These are FABULOUS for the price, however, be warned they are made in China ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Sure did - I went back a week later and they were sold out, tried a few more times and when the shelves were eventually reloaded, I bought a stack! ♥♥♥...

Swisse Manuka Honey Detoxifying Facial Mask (70g, RRP $17.99)

This was a sachet I received from...can't remember, but wherever or whoever it was, thank you! Absolutely loved this and how soft and clear it left my complexion - contains charcoal and kaolin clay and is aimed at combination skin. Mine is becoming drier as I age, but I still experience pore congestion from time to time, and this is designed to clean out the gunk. I might even prefer this to the L'Oreal one. Interestingly, Swisse skincare has only come to my attention recently - I thought they only made vitamins, but I'm really quite impressed with this and the Hyaluro mask ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yes indeed, again, once I've finished off a couple of others ♥♥♥...

Hair

Kevin Murphy Shimmer.Shine Repairing Shine Mist (100ml, RRP $42.95)

I raved about this last October. It's a fabulous shine spray for golden blondes that contains the finest and teeniest little particles of gold glitter, and while it's no longer all that suitable for my ashy tresses, I couldn't bear to toss it without using it all up first. This is shine and gleam without the glug ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

No, but I'll definitely be buying the ash (purple) version called Shimmer Me Blonde ♥♥♥...

Olaplex No. 3 Hair Perfector (100ml, RRP $49.95)

My hair can't live without this - the best, the most magical, ultimate restorer of health to damaged tresses. Expensive but SO worth it for shiny, strong healthy locks. If you home colour, you need this ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

Forever - I usually buy the (best value) $75 duo pack from Adore Beauty but it's out of stock at the moment. Just as well I still have one bottle left ♥♥♥...

Scott Cornwall Colour Restore Iced Platinum Anti-Yellow Toner (100ml, RRP $16.95)

So this is my new antidote for the yellow tones that always emerge as my ash hair colourant fades between sessions. The Schwarzkopf Live Colour Pastels in Cool Grey I was using started to turn my hair green - fine for Halloween but not the rest of the year lol! I will experiment with mixing it in with a purple shade, but in the meantime, this Scott Cornwall one is working for me. I use it after colouring my roots - I mix about half a tube in with my hair mask and then plaster it all over for 20 minutes. Perfect ashy highlights that last till the next time I colour! ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

Yep, recently stocked up at the Priceline sale ♥♥♥...

Home

Models Prefer Scented Reed Diffuser Sampler - Paris (Box of 5, RRP $30)

Bought this sampler set because it was half price, and I'm always on the lookout for reed diffusers - I prefer them to candles as they are continuous, and there's no flame danger. There's no denying these are such cuties! The frosted bottle has images of capital city landmarks etched on all sides, and each one has a relevant silver charm around the neck - this being Paris, the charm was the Eiffel Tower natch. The fragrance itself was fresh and crisp, with notes of Iris, Lily & Patchouli. It's such a tiny little thing though, and in my big room I could only smell the fragrance when I was next to it, but it would probably be effective enough for an enclosed toilet situation. Would I buy the full-size versions? Maybe - I'm currently sampling the London one (rose, tangerine & musk), just not sure whether any of the scents would be powerful enough for what I'm after ♥... 

Repurchase?

Peut-être (maybe) ♥...

Makeup

Eye of Horus Goddess Pencils - Serpentine Sultry (dark olive) (RRP $30)

Endless love ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Affirmative - after charcoal, this is the colour I use the most ♥♥♥...

Maybelline Total Temptation Brow Definer - Blonde (RRP $13.95)

Reviewed HERE, I go through one of these every month - yes that's right, I have no brows! ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Recently bought enough on sale to last me till halfway through next year ♥♥♥...

Giveaway!

As usual, a selection of this month's empties for one of you lovelies...

• 1 x Skin Republic Platinum Peel-Off Face Mask
• 1 x Skin Republic 24K Gold Peel-Off Face Mask
• 2 x Eaoron Ultimate Botox Masks
• 2 x Olay Magnemasks Infusion Rejuvenating Sheet Masks
• 2 x boxes of BeautyCare Rosehip Under Eye Patches (6 pairs)
• 1 x L'Oreal Paris Pure Clay Detoxifying & Brightening Charcoal Mask

All products were purchased by me, the total value is around $70, and this 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!)
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 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

Congratulations gorgeous! 

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

Wednesday 31st October to claim your prize :-)

Edit: Isabel has claimed her prize ♥

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Best of luck to all who enter!

Take care of you,

kats xxx

SPOTLIGHT: May Empties 2018 + Giveaway!...

Well now, May was a whopper for empties! I went through so many products I couldn't fit them all in one photo, so the masks are in a separate pic halfway down the page lol. I managed to clear five bottles of body wash, but before you start thinking I shower 10 times in a day, I must add that I didn't START them all in May - these all had an inch or two left in them at the end of Sydney's long hot Summer, and I decided to concentrate on using them up instead of storing them away to make space for my Winter faves. Also (unbelievably!) I finished off two foundations, so this really was quite a record month...

Body

Avalon Organics Refreshing Lemon Bath & Shower Gel (355ml, RRP $11)

I'd read such amazing reviews of the Avalon Organics range online, so I just had to try it and ordered this lemon gel from iHerb. If lemon is your thing, then you'll be in zest heaven with this gem - it actually contains oils from limes, grapefruit and oranges as well as lemons, plus the number one ingredient listed is aloe juice. It's vegan, not tested on animals, paraben-free and the bottle is made from 100% recycled material. Not quite as hydrating as I'd hoped, and it's a pain to have to order it outside of Oz, but it has everything else going for it! ♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yes, but I'll try the lavender one next as the lemon is a bit too zingy for the cold weather ha ha ♥♥...

Ecostore Coconut & Vanilla Gentle & Nourishing Body Wash (400ml, RRP $8.99)

I tell you what New Zealand is rapidly becoming THE most fabulous source of skin care products.  Absolutely love this range and the fact that I can buy it at Woolworths. The packaging is modern and stylish, it smells delish, and it doesn't dry my skin AT ALL. Cruelty-free and no SLS either ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

I have several bottles in the cupboard, as well as three of the hand-wash - LOVE! ♥♥♥...

Estelle & Thild Fresh Water Lily Hand Soap (250ml, RRP $16)

Added this to my Sephora cart to qualify for free shipping, but I won't buy it again. Sure it's nice enough - made in Sweden and certified organic, but I really didn't enjoy the scent, and it's way too runny to be practical. Lost count of the number of times I depressed the pump and managed to squirt it past my hands and onto my clothing!...

Repurchase?

No...

Nature's Own Double Strength Cold Sore Relief L-Lysine 1000mg (50 tablets, RRP $25.99)

A while back I went through a period of recurring cold sores from stress - had 3 in a row so I figured I needed some biochemical support, and these were recommended by a dear friend (thanks hon!). Expensive, but I haven't had a breakout since ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
Yep ♥♥♥...

Nubian Heritage Mango Butter Body Wash (384ml, RRP $14)

Another one that was raved about on iHerb, and I completely understand why - it's ah-mazing. Contains mango, shea and cocoa butter, Vitamin C & coconut oil - incredibly hydrating, lathers like crazy and the fruity mango fragrance is to die for. It only has one flaw - it's SO thick, I can only use it in the warm weather, almost impossible to get it out of the bottle once the temp drops below 20 degrees. No animal testing, fair trade & organic ingredients ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Absolutely! There are so many in the range that I want to try - all based on traditional African recipes, like Honey & Black Seed, Indian Hemp & Haitian Vetiver, Patchouli & Buriti ♥♥♥...

Sephora Hydrating & Energising Shower Gel (400ml, RRP $19)

Loved this, reviewed HERE - bummed that I can't see it on their website any more ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Would if I could ♥♥♥...

Swisse Women's Power Ultivite (40 tablets, RRP $33.95)

Went for these mainly because the label said "stress response" - well they sure helped, but they are SO HUGE and with a matte finish, I could barely swallow them...

Repurchase?

No, but only because of the above - most multivitamins are large, but I have to go for ones encased in easy-to-slide-down gelatin...

Thankyou Coffee Body Scrub (300g, RRP $14.95)

Love this, love what the company is doing, messy but supernally effective and I adore the smell of it. I'm actually using the empty jar to store one of my other body scrubs - can't stand sachets in the shower ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Affirmative ♥♥♥...

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

Another of my repeaters - my fave from this brand, divine scent, non-drying and one I will be using all year round ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Sure bet ♥♥♥...

Face

L'Oreal Age Perfect Cell Renewal Night Cream (50ml, RRP $44.95)

A beautiful cream that came my way via the beautyheaven Trial Team. A stunning formulation that's perfect for dry skin, or if you're like me, skin that transforms into a flakey prune once the temperature drops. My bh review of it is HERE, about halfway down the page. Aimed at the 50-70 age market, it's a gem. I reviewed the original formulation back in 2013 (HERE) and this reworked version is even better with the inclusion of Black Truffles ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Definitely on my must-buy list once I plough through the backlog of moisturisers on my bench ♥♥♥...

Lush Dark Angels Fresh Facial Cleanser (100g, RRP $17.50)

This was #gifted to me in March last year (review HERE) and I put it aside due to the plethora of other charcoal products on my shelf but made a special effort to finish it off. It was well beyond its use-by date, and the only change was that the oil separated out a bit, but it still worked a treat ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yes, but I'll have to clear the other products first - because Lush doesn't use preservatives, this baby only has a recommended shelf life of 3 months, and to use it all up in that time, it would have to be my only one ♥♥♥...

Mirenesse Endless Youth Pearly Glow Bubble Cleanser (60g, RRP $39.50)

Most of the Mirenesse products that appear here arrive via their VIP packs, and this one was a pleasant surprise, and the name says it all - soft creamy bubbles that melt away makeup, lovely fresh fragrance, contains centella asiatica, sage, green tea, tea tree & purslane. Mirenesse is a cruelty-free brand, and this particular product is made in South Korea ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Probably not - it's lovely, but I prefer a gel for Summer and a balm for Winter ♥♥♥...

Sukin Super Greens Detoxifying Clay Masque (100ml, RRP $15.95)

OMG I actually finished a tub of mask! I have about five part-used ones on my bench, but this one I've had for the longest period (about 2 years) so it was time for it to earn a place in an empties post - no change or deterioration in the product though, just as effective as the first application. Gives any clogged pores a scare and draws out the goop, leaves my complexion cool, calm, deeply cleansed and refined ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

After I use up one of the other ones, for sure ♥♥♥...

Hair

Goldwell Kerasilk Color Intensive Luster Mask (200ml, RRP $42.95)

I found this in one of beautyheaven's beautoriums, and it was love at first application. It's the palest lavender cream that smells sensational, and given I have a Goldwell Kerasilk treatment every three months, I figured this would help maintain the smooth silky finish, and it sure does that. Only needs to be left on for 10 minutes, but sometimes I sleep in it (with a beanie) to give my tresses an extra conditioning boost ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

I actually bought the regular one this time around as I'm not so concerned about colour fade now that I'm no longer red/gold ♥♥♥...

Kevin Murphy Shimmer Me Blonde Repairing Shine Treatment for Blondes (100ml, RRP $42.95)

This is the "ash" version of the golden one I reviewed back in October (HERE) - not cheap, but it lasts me around 6 months and gives my locks that bit of extra glisten and gleam without weighing it down ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

I've just had the Kerasilk treatment done again so I'll wait for a month before repurchasing as my hair doesn't need a shine boost at the mo' ♥♥♥...

Olaplex Hair Perfector (100ml, RRP $49.95)

This stuff is so good - everything I wrote about it in my February Empties post (HERE) still stands - can't live without it! ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Forever ♥♥♥...

Makeup

Covergirl + Olay Simply Ageless Foundation - Natural Beige (12g, RRP $25.95)

Bought this so long ago I can't remember exactly when, but it was back in the days when I was still trying to find the best colour and finish for my skin. This isn't the one, but I've kept using it as the coverage is 110%, and there have been days when I needed the complete mask-like end result. It's a bit orangey for my complexion, and it always ended up a bit cakey by the afternoon, but I appreciated the SPF28 ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Nope - see the Maybelline review below ♥♥♥...

Eye of Horus Goddess Pencil - Charcoal Obsidian (RRP $30.00)

Regular readers will know of my passion for this range, and this one was part of a prize I won back in 2016 (HERE) - as a rule, each colour lasts me around 2 years, I love this shade because it isn't black black, more like a graphite so it's not as stark on my old peepers, plus it has tiny little sparkles in it, which incidentally don't irritate my eyes (however do they do that?) ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

I always buy a replacement when the pencil is down to one-third remaining, so I bought one a while back ♥♥♥... 

Maybelline Dream Cushion Liquid Foundation in a Compact - Sand (14.6g, RRP $26.95)

I bought several of these on special when they were relatively newly released because it suits my skin SO well in every department - gave it a whole lotta love HERE ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

I have one more left ♥♥♥...

Rimmel Exaggerate Full Colour Lip Liner - Eastend Snob (RRP $12.50)

One of the best nude lipliners I've tried - this one has lasted me 18 months ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Already have ♥♥♥...

Face Masks

These aren't in alphabetical order as I've fitted them around the relevant piccie...

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

First tried this last July, and I have such a stash of sheet masks from a wide range of brands that I'm only just getting around to repeats of the ones I really liked, and this was one of them. Has all sorts of yummy stuff in it including Acai Berries, Chia Seeds, Quinoa and Avocado - deep cleans as well as nourishes. It also fits quite well and stays put, perfect for my multi-masking days (see pic below) ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yes although it's a challenge as this amazing company keeps bringing out new varieties that catch my eye ♥♥♥...

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

I do so love these - so cooling, calming and firming. Too expensive to use every week, and I keep hoping they'll be included in one of the Priceline special sales, but no luck so far. They slip and slide around so apply them under another mask, or lie down and chill ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yes absolutely ♥♥♥...

LonVitalite C7 Collagen & Gold Lip Mask (Box of 5, RRP $35)

Have already raved about these a few times - LOVE! ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

I need a truckload of these, so yes ♥♥♥...

Skin Republic Volcanic Ash Mud Sheet Mask (RRP $12.00)

Yeah, baby - one of three new mud varieties that came out recently. The others are Green Tea and Pink Clay, which I'm busting to try next. This one is utterly fab - the cloth is saturated with the clay/ash formula so you have to be careful applying it or it gets in your hair, not that it really matters. The flap that covers the nose is longer than others (yay!) and the overall fit is brilliant. The cloth stiffens as it dries (just like a cream mud mask would) and you need to rinse your face afterwards. Results are particularly awesome - my pores looked way smaller, my skin felt super clean and soft, and there was an overall radiance and refinement that I'd like to see permanently! ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Of course - actually, this one might just overthrow the gold collagen one as my fave from this brand ♥♥♥...

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

Revisited these as the cheaper Purederm ones were out of stock at Kmart for almost three weeks. They're so good, and I shudder to think how many I've bought since I discovered them ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Will always have some of these around ♥♥♥...

Skin Physics Advance Superlift 3D Deep Hydration Lifting Mask (Pack of 3, RRP $59.99)

Excellent product, just wish it fitted better - love that it has bits for my neck (which needs a LOT of work), but they just don't sit right ♥...

Repurchase?

Not unless there is a design overhaul ♥...

Skin Physics Instant Lift V-Shape Vitality Mask (RRP $14.99)

This slingy thing (pictured above underneath the other mask) is so effective, I would sleep in one of these every night if I could afford it. I swear it firms my saggy chin and jawline and the effects last for around 24 hours ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Just as soon as they're on special again, and then I'll buy lots ♥♥♥...

Purederm Ginkgo Eye Puffiness Minimizing Patches (4 patches, RRP $3.00)

At $1.50 a pop, these can't be beat - I sleep in them at least three nights every week ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yes ma'am ♥♥♥...

Giveaway!

I've tried to keep the package lightweight so I can make the giveaway International, so there are only a few faves from May, but I've included some pretty jewellery items to boost the value of the prize ...

• 1 x Skin Republic Volcanic Ash Mud Sheet Mask
• 1 x Skin Republic Detox Charcoal + 10-Superfood Formula Face Mask Sheet
• 1 x Sukin Super Greens Detoxifying Clay Masque
• 1 x Nutrimetics rose gold-tone Necklace (49cm) and Earrings (6mm studs) set, made with Swarovski Elements
• 1 x Colette rose gold-tone diamante & faux pearl ring, size L

Here's a closeup of the jewellery - the stones are clear crystal...

All products were purchased by me, and the total value is approximately $95.

And this giveaway is open...

INTERNATIONALLY! 

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!)
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 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Again so many entries, and again I had to disqualify quite a few folks

as they didn't leave a comment on this page...but...

Woo hoo! - random.org has chosen the beautiful Cassandra D. as the winner.  

Congratulations gorgeous! 

Cassandra please respond to the email I've sent you by

Thursday 28th June to claim your prize :-)

Edit: Cassandra has claimed her prize ♥

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Best of luck to all who enter!

Take care of you,

kats xxx