November 2020 Empties & Giveaway!...

Well with two Empties posts this month my recycle bin is overflowing, but I'm so relieved to have been able to catch up at last! Lots of regulars but I finished some new products as well, and perhaps even my ultimate ashy/grey hair colouring solution, the search for which has been ongoing for well over 12 months. And as I've mentioned before, I believe Christmas shouldn't just be one day a year (which is one of the reasons why I have giveaways every month), but I have chosen some special products for this bundle to mark the occasion, and I hope you'll enter - the prize won't arrive till January, but it would be a beaut start to 2021 for one of my precious followers ♥...

Body

Nutrimetics Ultra Care Platinum Hand Therapy (75ml, RRP $39)

I do love this hand cream - still searching for my Holy Grail, but this is pretty close. I reckon if I used three tubes in a row, I'd see a significant reduction in the pigmentation on my hands. It does lighten the spots a little, but I want to get rid of them completely, so I'm hanging out till the next time this is on special. I've tried other brands that specialise in fading the spots, but none of them has worked for me - with this there is hope ♥♥♥...
Repurchase?

Will do ♥♥♥...

Palmolive Luminous Oils Hand Wash - Rejuvenating Fig Oil with White Orchid (500ml, RRP $7)

This contains SLS which is a no-no in my beauty routine, but I'll be honest I bought it for the colour (pastel coral pink) and the scent (I'm a fig fragrance fanatic). I wanted something pretty to decant into my clear glass dispenser, but I've since changed to an amber set, so colour is not a requirement any more. Can I live without the fragrance? Probably - but it was nice to try it, and  I had no irritation from the dodgy content ♥♥... 

Repurchase?

Perhaps ♥♥...

Regulars
Colgate Plax Alcohol Free Gentle Mint Mouth Wash (500ml, RRP $6.49)

Ecostore Vanilla & Coconut Body Wash - (400ml, $8.99)

SheaMoisture Manuka Honey & Mafura Oil Intensive Hydration Body Wash - (384ml, $10)
SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Hydrating Body Wash (384ml, RRP $19.99) 
SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Soap (230g, RRP $9.99)

White Glo Micellar Whitening Toothpaste (100ml, RRP $5.99)

White Glo Toothbrush (free with the above toothpaste)

Face

Garnier Organics Anti-Age Sleeping Cream (50ml, RRP $19.95)

Gee this is such a lovely cream - I'm tempted to use it exclusively for the divine scent alone, but I'm not sure it's potent enough for my old skin. Mind you I had no issues with dryness or deterioration in my current wrinkle situation, but I think I'm at a stage in my life when I need some big guns - something that addresses my additional issues of enlarged pores and pigmentation ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
Yeah, I'll keep a jar on the bench for when I need a lavender fix and the fabulous feel of this on my face ♥♥♥...

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

The other half of the buy-one-get-one-free deal - loved this second bottle as much as the first. I was concerned as the special deal was listed as "Clearance" so I figured it was discontinued, but I just found it on their website so I can relax. I raved about the first tube back in September - I still feel the same way about it, and I'd use it regularly if it was on special regularly ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Not till the next deal and if that happens in winter, I'd keep it for the warmer weather as it's hard to spread ♥♥♥...

St. Ives Energising Coconut & Coffee Scrub (150ml, RRP $9.99)

Love the consistency of this scrub - it's marked with an exfoliating factor of "Deep" and that suits me just fine for a once-a-week application, but I'm on the fence with the fragrance. Coffee & coconut is what it smells like, but I think I would prefer coffee and caramel, or coconut with something else. Anyways I'm a huge fan of St. Ives scrubs, but not so keen on this particular fragrance ♥♥...

Repurchase?

Possibly ♥♥...

Regulars

Neutrogena Make-up Remover Cleansing Towelettes (Pack of 25, RRP $7.99) 

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

Fragrance

Stoneglow Candles Bergamot, Vetiver & Patchouli Reed Diffuser (140ml, RRP $38.95)

This was my winter room scenter and it's lasted a particularly long time - opened the bottle in May, so that makes it a good six months. The fragrance is to die for and one of those that I would spritz on myself if it was available as an EDP.  Sensual, uplifting, comforting - divine. The local chemist doesn't seem to be stocking the brand anymore so I'm freaking out, plus this particular scent isn't listed on their website. But I'm keeping the glass container - the ombre blue to green is gorgeous. Sigh ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Would if I could ♥♥♥...

Hair

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

This is the base colour I use with the Ash & Blue colours below. Being so light it doesn't contribute very much yellow or gold to the mix - that's a bonus, plus it's cheap as chips ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

Yessiree - I have half a dozen tubes in the cupboard ♥♥♥...

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

Found these on the Salon Warehouse website. While I'm still experimenting with the proportions (too much of the Intensive colours makes my hair look almost black lol) I'm confident that I'll get the quantity right within the next few applications, and then the yellowy tinge that ALWAYS creeps into my locks with other brands will be gone forever. These are pure pigments designed to boost the base colour, and they certainly deliver. I use the Clear one to dilute the Ash & Blue so that I have enough mixture to apply all over, and I've also used it with 40 Vol to lighten my hair if it's turned out too dark. Works a treat, pure silvery-grey here I come ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

You bet - I've recently stocked up so I have enough to play with ♥♥♥...

Regulars

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

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

Makeup

Tarte Double Duty Beauty Shape Tape Contour Concealer - Light Neutral (10ml, RRP $40)

Bought this in January from Sephora so it's lasted brilliantly, I think because it's so dense and therefore very little is required for complete coverage. I doubt I'll ever buy any other concealer - it's the best I've tried in all my years. I use it under my eyes to give the whole area a lift, around my nose to cover red spider veins, down the centre of my schnozz for contouring, and around the outside of my lipline, which helps me achieve a clean finish for my LOTD pics. It doesn't crease or flake and comes in 30 shades - truly awesome ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

Already have, it's on my can't-live-without list ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Eye of Horus Bronze Amulet Goddess Pencil (1.2g, RRP $30)

Maybelline Brow Ultra Slim Eyebrow Pencil (RRP $15.95)

Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Liner (RRP $15.95)

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

Giveaway

Ok, so for the Christmas edition, we have up for grabs...

• Ecopure Milk & Honey Fragranced Hand Soap with Natural Honey Extract
• Ecopure Oh Be Hive Milk & Honey Fragranced Gift Soap
• Lovisa Sapphire Blue & Silver-toned Necklace & Earring Set
• Nutrimetics Juniper Fragranced Hand Cream
• Nutrimetics Juniper Fragranced Soap
• Nutrimetics Sequinned Makeup Bag
• Urban Rituelle Lemongrass & Lime Fragrance Diffuser Set
• White Glo Accelerator Dentist Blue Light Teeth Whitening kit

Here's a closeup of the jewellery so you can see how gorgeous the set is...

All items were purchased by me and the approximate value is $150.  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 Sakina M. as the winner.  

Congratulations gorgeous! 

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

Thursday 31st December to claim your prize :-)

Edit: Sakina has claimed her prize ♥

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Best of luck to all who enter!

And in case I don't get to post again before Friday...

Merry Christmas Lovelies!

Take care of you, and keep safe,

kats xxx

SPOTLIGHT: July Empties!...

I was beginning to despair that I would never get this empties post up - but where there's a will (and a new PC & modem), there's a way lol. Somewhat disappointing turnover volume - same as the previous month actually, however some of these have been in the works for quite some time, like, almost a year! So starting from the left...

Bioré Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser (200ml RRP $10.99)

Before I start I just want to say I really REALLY like Bioré products, and I believe there are marvellous benefits of having charcoal as an ingredient. However...there's something in every item in the Bioré range that makes my eyes water. It's not that I let the stuff get anywhere near my eyes, it's more like there are fumes that billow up permeating the space around me (even when I'm in the shower), and make my eyes feel really weird - I think it's the menthol, I have the same reaction when I use one of those creams for an athletic injury. SO annoying because I really enjoy the effectiveness of this cleanser and how it makes my skin feel, same goes for the scrub and the masks...sigh...

Repurchase?

Umm, not unless they change the formula...

Imperial Leather Forbidden Fruit - Blackberry Blossom & Wild Fig Triple Moisturising Bodywash (1 litre RRP $8.99)

I've had this massive bottle since forever - note to self, don't by the giant size as you have to decant the contents 'cos it won't fit in the shower rack, and by the time you get to the end of it, you might just have had enough of it. Having said that I did enjoy this gorgeous purple fruit concoction, but I'm now totally bored with the fragrance...

Repurchase?

Negative - hey I found the Blue Lagoon one at The Reject Shop for $2!

Alpha-H Liquid Gold (200ml On special $69.95)

My precious - love this SO much I bought a year's supply. Way way overdue for it's own dedicated review post, and I already featured it in my December Empties post, but it's just TOO GOOD to not mention again ♥...

Repurchase?

There's another 200ml bottle waiting in the wings - Adore Beauty had it on special, bless 'em ♥...

Clarins Super Restorative Total Eye Concentrate (15ml RRP $90)

Yeah well, I guess I have to say this is my HG eye cream. I've been trying some other ones (NeoStrata Intensive Eye Therapy, freezeframe REVITALEYES) in an attempt to find something to match it performance-wise at a fraction of the cost, but it's not happening for me. I reviewed this beauty back in June last year (HERE) and for my particular issues, it's a standout. Doesn't do anything for the under-eye baggies, but nothing does. And it's too early to tell if the SK-II R.N.A. Eye Cream is any better, but in a way I'm kinda hoping it's not as it's even MORE expensive lol! The Clarins has the ability to make my eyes look refreshed, and with the limited amount of sleep I get on a regular basis, it's the one that works best ♥...
Repurchase?

Not yet, but it's inevitable ♥...

Nature's Way Vitamin C 500mg Chewable Tablets (500 RRP $15.95)

This massive container has lasted me the best part of a year - well almost. Let's see - 2 tablets a day and there's 500 in the pack, so that's 250 days, which is roughly 8 months. Awesome value - can't say this brand is any better than the rest, but it's a good deal, and I tend to go for whatever is on special. What I can say is that I can't survive without my daily dose of Vitamin C ♥...

Repurchase?

I couldn't find the giant jar, so I went for Cenovis (300) this time around, but will snap one up next time I see it...

Natralus Natural Paw Paw Lip Butter - Strawberry (10g RRP $5.75)

Lovingly reviewed HERE -  the jury is still out as to whether this is my fave or the Coconut one, but I'll always have a spare of both ♥...

Repurchase?

Already have ♥...

Garnier Anti-Shine Cleansing Gel (150ml RRP $9.95)

Been using this gel on and off over the last 12 months - quite a pleasant little cleanser. Haven't found it particularly effective for mattifying my face or tightening my pores, but it does cleanse thoroughly and smells delish - like grapefruit, green tea and blossoms. I do prefer something a little less foamy...

Repurchase?

Might buy another for Summer because it's super refreshing, but it's not on my list of essentials...

Palmolive Peach Indulgence Body Butter Moisturising Body Wash (400ml RRP $6.79)

Love this peach-a-licious body wash, my current fave - reviewed in detail HERE ♥...

Repurchase?

That would be a yes - I have three in the cupboard...although one is for my Mum ♥...


Given that my new computer is not blue-screening every half an hour like the old one, and the overall electronic setup is now faster than the speed of light, you can rest assured that my August Empties post will be up in a far more timely manner ♥

Take care of you,
kats xxx

P.S. Linking to Ingrid's magical Monday Makeup Madness Link Up Party - online at 6:30am (if not before) ♥♥♥

SPOTLIGHT: Marie Claire Ageless Parcel - August 2016...

I think all subscribers agreed that the last Marie Claire Ageless Parcel was absolutely ahh-mazing, and a pretty hard act to follow, especially given it contained what's turned out to be my new number one primer (IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Cream, RAVE review up soon). Still this latest one is pretty darn fine in my opinion, and the more so given the value of the contents works out to be around $200 (whoa!), so here we go with the goodies...

L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Magic Blur Day Cream - full size, 50ml ($34.95)

Delighted to see this included as I've been wanting to try it for a while, but couldn't justify adding yet another jar to the ten already backed up on the shelf! But I'll start this one next. The cream is the palest of pinks, feels very light yet enriching, absorbs instantly, has quite a strong but divine floral fragrance, and if it blurs my lines while working some long term magic, then I'll be sold. The blurb says "Achieve a lit-from-within-radiance" - sounds pretty good hey? No SPF, but supposedly reduces the appearance of fine lines, pores and wrinkles. Gorgeous packaging in a very heavy glass jar, this will brighten up my vanity by just sitting there ♥♥♥...

Palmolive

 Oil Infusions Body Moisturiser - full size, 200ml ($5.99)

I've only tried the hand wash in this range, so happy to give this a go. Was slightly alarmed at the Jasmine content (we don't get on very well) but the fragrance isn't too strong although it does linger, but I'll manage. Nice non-greasy lightweight formula, takes a while to absorb, but once it sinks in, my skin feels satin smooth. Second listed ingredient is Mineral Oil, but towards the bottom there's Orange & Mandarin Orange Peel Oil. Given that formula components are usually listed by greatest quantity first, I think it's a bit naughty that Jasmine & Avocado Oil are highlighted on the front label, yet they are last on the list. My body moisturiser preference is for something a tad more natural and organic, but we'll see...

O.P.I. Nail Lacquer - Red Lights Ahead...Where? - full size, 15ml ($19.95)

Absolutely STUNNING colour! I shall thoroughly enjoy adorning my toes with this winner once my feet emerge from boots and thick socks ♥♥♥...

Philosophy Purity Made Simple 3-in-1 Cleanser - sample size, 30ml ($3.75 value)

I'm quite taken with Philosophy products having trialled the brilliant Ultimate Miracle Worker range for beautyheaven back in April. This has a delicate and appealing fragrance, and I'll probably hang onto it for overnighters (once I've tried it of course) as it's the perfect size. Advertised as a 3-in-1 cleanser, it seems to be a massage-in-wipe-off style for face and eye makeup, and hydrates the skin as well. For the skin sensitive, surprisingly there's quite a few ingredients that start with "sodium", and it also contains isopropyl alcohol...

SK-II R.N.A Eye Cream - sample size, 2.5g ($24.80 value)

With words like "R.N.A" and "radical new age" in the name, I'm expecting big things from this eye cream! Used twice daily, it promises to "strengthen this delicate area, sagging skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles". Full size price is $149, so I'll have to get back to you on it's effectiveness - somewhat beyond my budget to say the least, but thrilled to have the opportunity to try something I normally wouldn't even dream about buying ♥♥♥...

Elizabeth Arden City Smart SPF 50 Hydrating Shield - sample size, 5ml ($11.12 value)

Love, love LOVE Elizabeth Arden Prevage anything. Yet to crack open the Anti-Aging Antixidant Infusion Essence that was in the last parcel, but am busting to try this ASAP. A slightly tinted sheer cream, it contains SPF50 and will "smog-proof" the skin and prevent it from being affected by pollution. Prior to this post, I rubbed a teeny amount on the back of my hand - very shiny and greasy looking initially, but it massaged in very quickly leaving behind only a faint sheen, and supremely softened skin. Has a very very faint SPF fragrance plus something else I can't put my finger on, but it's not unpleasant ♥...

The Body Shop Oils of Life Intensely Revitalising Sleeping Cream - sample size, 5ml ($3.43 value)

Have only used this night cream once, but it's quite lovely. The label says it's made in France, and while the pot is too tiny to list the ingredients, the accompanying card says it contains both precious and essential oils. Not so keen on the fragrance, but it dissipates quickly. Non greasy, my face just drinks this in ♥♥♥...

Jeunesse Global Instantly Ageless - full size, 50 x 0.3ml sachets ($96.80)

As usual, I've saved what I believe is my pick of the bunch till last - jumping out of my skin to try this on my wrinkly open-pored face lol. Most interesting presentation of sachets in a gorgeous little flip top box. I'm a little confused with the instructions (below) though as it says "dispense a small drop of Instantly Ageless..." and yet inside the sachet is a pink CREAM. Perhaps they've recently changed the formula? Anyways, it goes under makeup and appears to be one of those products that immediately plumps and tightens the skin as it dries, but with no permanent benefits. Have only tried it on my arm so far - surprisingly cooling, dries matte, and made the skin quite tight with a powdery feel. I've tried a few similar concoctions before that made my face look fabulously pore and line-free...until I applied my makeup, and then the effectiveness plummeted to a "forget it" level. Will definitely let you know whether this works, and whether it's worth almost $100! ♥♥♥ 

In summary, this Marie Claire Ageless Parcel is unsurpassable value for an outlay of $25 ♥♥♥

Which product peaks your interest the most?

Take care of you,

kats xxx

CONFESSIONS: Of a Body Washaholic (Part 17)...

Fancy an ultra-rich moisturising body wash that leaves your skin baby soft, and delicately fragranced with the aroma of freshly cut peaches? Well good old Palmolive has released one such gem in their range, just in time to counteract the dreaded winter skin flakies. I'm SO in love with this utterly delicious Body Butter Peach Indulgence Moisturising Body Wash, I've bought FOUR of them already! Well, one's for my Mum, but I wasn't going to risk stocks running low as more and more folks discover it's delights...

Despite no less than eight other loves on my shower shelf, this is the one I'm reaching for most often at the mo', especially on work days - it's so hydrating, I can skip my body moisturising step! The creamy formula is super thick, and lathers into a rich glossy foam that gets my bod clean, softens my skin, and yet doesn't make the tiles the least bit slippery...

I'm saddened that it contains SLS though - it means that those folks who are sensitive to this pesky ingredient will miss out on experiencing the pleasure of this bathroom belle. I can't imagine anyone having a problem with the fragrance though - it's so fresh and amazingly realistic, subtle and yet quite pervasive...

So far I've only found this shower treat at Coles, but not doubt it will be available in the usual stockists shortly. At $4.99, it's terrific value for 400ml of fabulously fruity body cleanser that actually puts some juice back into your skin. Just like the Passionfruit Bodypolish Exfoliating Body Wash in the same range, this is another can't-live-without ♥♥♥

Take care of you,

kats xxx

SPOTLIGHT: March Empties!...

Well as you can see, last month was all about hair colour! No I didn't dye my hair six times lol - I'm still blending shades together to achieve the hue I'm after, and while it looks like a lot, in most cases I only used a quantity from multiple packs for each session, and tossed out the leftovers. But I'm almost done, and this month should see me hit the desired hue, and then I'll revert to a maintenance mode - it's been lots of fun experimenting though, and along the way I've discovered a BRILLIANT new product, so read on ♥...

Imperial Leather Limited Edition Bird of Paradise Triple Moisturising Bodywash

One of my fave fragrances in this range - reviewed here. Almost the perfect shower formula for me - leaves my skin amazingly soft and deliciously scented...

Repurchase?
As soon as I can find it again, but you know how it goes with "Limited Editions" sigh ♥...


Palmolive Naturals White Citrus with Lemongrass Extract Shower Gel

I was sad when I finished this, mainly because for me it's a Summer scented body wash, and I got to the bottom of the bottle just as Autumn kicked in. I'm always a bit down in the dumps when the warm weather starts to fade, over it now though. This Palmolive gel is terrific value, smells sensational, is non drying and I lovingly reviewed it here...

Repurchase?

I won't use it again till after Winter, but I'll buy a bottle and stash it away in case it's discontinued in the meantime ♥...

L'Oreal Casting Creme Gloss Conditioning Colour - Dark Blonde

I bought this because it's a semi-permanent and contains no ammonia. After one of my recent experiments, my hair was way too orange - this looked quite golden on the pack, and I thought it would tone down the clowny orange without being too harsh on my already over colour-treated tresses, but it turned out quite ashy and dark, probably because my hair is so porous. Terrific formula though, gentle, non-drying and not too stinky, and considering it's only meant for 70% grey, it coloured my white roots pretty well... 

Repurchase?
Not this particular shade, but I've just coloured my hair again with a mix of the Amber & Silky Blonde from this range, and it's pretty close to the hue I'm after ♥


L'Oreal Preference Brush On Glam Highlights - No. 3

Definitely the find of the month, maybe even the year! I've successfully done my own highlights for many years with Nordic Blonde Streaking Kit, but this is even easier to use. You mix the activating powder and lightening cream in the bottle of developer cream, and then dispense the solution onto the nifty three-pronged brush (see pic below). Starting near the roots, you simply stroke the brush through your hair, reload it with solution, and repeat until you have as many streaks as you desire. Development time is 25-45 minutes, but I only leave it on for 20 as my hair lightens at the drop of a hat. I tried this a couple of weeks ago - 100% natural look, I received quite a few compliments, and all the gals were amazed that I'd done it myself. Comes in 3 strengths - light blonde to dark blonde, dark blonde to light brown (my choice) and light brown to brown. The pack includes a special conditioning shampoo, but I used my usual...

Repurchase?
Already have - it's brilliant! ♥♥♥...

Ansell Medium Disposable Gloves

These are my go-to throw away gloves, and I consider them to be a beauty essential. I use them primarily when I colour my hair because unlike the flimsy ones that are included in the dye packs, I can take them off while I'm waiting for the colour to develop, and then put them back on again for the rinse (they're lightly powdered). Ideal for light household cleaning jobs as they're strong, but don't make my hands sweat anywhere near as much as the usual rubber variety, and because they're a reasonably snug fit, there's no loss of dexterity. I wear them when I'm repotting my plants too - latex free (they're made from vinyl) and they fit either hand...

Repurchase?
Never EVER without a box of these ♥...


John Plunkett's Superfade Accelerator

This tube has made a massive difference to the effectiveness of the Superfade cream. I've been it using on my hands every night, in fact with the intensity of my brown spots, I wouldn't bother using the cream without it ever again. As mentioned before, I'll be posting a separate review of my age-spot fading adventure soon...

Repurchase?
Have already bought a second tube ♥...


Compeed Medium Blister Plasters

If you ever get blisters from new shoes, then forget the bandaid solution - these plasters leave them for dead. I guarantee you that the discomfort from any blister you could possibly develop will be IMMEDIATELY eliminated as soon as you stick one of these thingies over the top. They're pretty much invisible when applied, survive multiple showers, and the blister will heal super fast...  

Repurchase?

Crikey, these are SO essential in my life, I have three packs - one at home, one in my handbag, and one at work ♥...

Napro Palette Intense Oil-Care Colour - Luminous Gold

Fabulous colour on the box - exactly the shade I've been aiming for (what I call "chestnut blonde"), and with a name like Luminous Gold, I had high hopes. Turned out ok, but more red than I wanted. 100% grey coverage though, usual smell but not overpowering, my hair felt soft afterwards with lots of shine...

Repurchase?

I'll try this again, but combine it half and half with an ash blonde from the same range to counteract the red...

Garnier Nutrisse Creme Permanent Nourishing Hair Colour - Dark Golden Blonde

I mixed this with the Copper Passion - nice resultant hue, but still too orange for my new look. Excellent formula though - I raved about the Copper & Fiery Red in my December Empties post...

Repurchase?

Not this particular shade - I'll probably try the Copper one again, but next time I'll add some ashy tones to see if I can "make" the colour I want...

Mirenesse Studio Magic BB Pore Powder

This little pot came in a VIP pack (which means I didn't intentionally buy it) - costs around $30 if you're a member, $50 if you're not. While it does effectively diffuse lines, reduce shine, and set makeup, I find the fragrance totally offputting - reminds me of shoe polish (lol!). It contains all sorts of yummy ingredients and no nasty ones, and I eventually finished it, but noooooo....

Repurchase?

Negative - I really can't get past the whiffy smell, and for my super oily T, Australis Ready Set Go Finishing Powder works better for me, plus it's a fraction of the price...

Clairol Nice'nEasy - Natural Golden Auburn & Natural Golden Blonde

This particular combo was close to my ideal shade, but it wasn't bright or intense enough - in other words, it was too "ordinary", and I don't do ordinary ha ha. I'm a fan of Clairol hair colourants though - used a coppery hue from the Nice'nEasy range exclusively for many years, until it was discontinued...

Repurchase?
No, well not at this stage anyway...


Original Source Vanilla & Raspberry Shower Gel

Equal favourite with the Lime from this range, but this is an all year round one for me - rave review here. There's something about this fragrance that I find supremely comforting, and I know it will help me make it through the cold dark winter mornings ahead...

Repurchase?
Yes and yay - I found the giant size! ♥


Imperial Leather Indulgence Rich Moisturising Body Wash  - Effortless (Citrus & White Gardenia)

Another of my regulars in the shower stall - adore this scent, reviewed here, and I'll always keep one in my cupboard as a spare. Simply stunning fragrance, and the compact shape and size of the bottle is a bonus if you have space issues like me...

Repurchase?
You betcha ♥...


Ego QV Face Exfoliating Polish

This has lasted me just over a year - I won it in a giveaway from the gorgeous Sarah from morethanadored. The most gentle scrub I've ever tried, I use it twice a week on the mornings after my Alpha-H Gold treatment. Love it! Full review here...

Repurchase?
Yessireee ♥

Phew, well that's a wrap for another month - how did you go with finishing off some products?

Take care of you,
kats xxx

P.S. The fun begins at 6:30am over at Ingrid's Monday Madness Link Up Party ♥

SPOTLIGHT: December Empties...

Hmmm - this series is becoming more embarrassing with every post! I'm only a petite gal, but I seem to go through so much stuff in a month. Oh well, at least the body wash count will be zero for January as the ten bottles (!) I have in my shower are all pretty full ha ha. And of course there will always be four empty boxes of hair colour for as long as I choose NOT to be a white haired lady lol. I don't want to bore you with repeaters, so there's a new section at the bottom where I'm listing all the monthly products that I've already mentioned in previous empties posts...

Palmolive Passionfruit Bodypolish Exfoliating Body Wash

Adore this stuff - reviewed here ♥...
Repurchase? There are already three bottles in the bathroom cupboard...

Imperial Leather Summer Bliss Mango Butter & Frangipani Triple Moisturising Body Wash

Delish - reviewed here.
Repurchase? Won't buy it again for a while, but only because there's no room in the cupboard (see above)... 

Original Source Pink Grapefruit Shower Gel

The fragrance is lovely, but not potent enough for me (reviewed here). Have just bought the Lime one and the Raspberry & Vanilla one, which are much more intensely scented... 

Repurchase? I'll give this one a miss as there are others out there waiting to be discovered ha ha...

Original Source Tropical Pineapple Shower Gel

My favourite of the range so far (reviewed here), but the Lime and Raspberry & Vanilla are new contenders...
Repurchase? Yes, when space permits ♥...

Natura Siberica Nourishing Cream-Soap

Loved this - bought if after reading A Bella Adventure's beaut review (here). Smells divine, nicely moisturising, big fat bottle, I'm mad keen on it because it's different, AND full of goodness♥...

Repurchase? Yes indeedy!

Chi Chi Persimmon Eau De Parfum

This Chi Chi fragrance is gorgeous - fabulously fruity and fresh, I've reviewed it twice already (latest one is here). Doesn't last as long on my skin as my fave Peach & Mango, but I adore it's tarty tang ♥..

Repurchase? If Chi Chi DON'T release the new Tutti Frutti in a large bottle, then definitely. I still have some left in my Travalo, and one of the small vials, but the TF has won my heart...

Alpha-H Liquid Gold

Was ecstatic to find this in my last Marie Claire Ageless Parcel. Haven't used this magical elixir for about two years - just forgot about it in amongst the sea of skincare I seem to immerse myself in constantly. Anyways I've just finished using this every second night for about a month - did the full monty (i.e. stroked it onto my face after cleansing, and then added...NOTHING), and it still amazes me how soft and supple and hydrated my skin is the next morning without the usual additional layers of serums and creams. My complexion looks and feels fabbo - refined and toned, glowing and refreshed, and no irritation or flaking. More please ♥...

Repurchase? For sure - as soon as I see a good deal on the giant bottle. I think I need to apply this all over my bod...

Scentrelle Reverse Time Face Serum

Lovely hyrdating serum - came in my prize from those lovelies at Bloggers United AU. It's basically an unfragranced oil which at first I thought was quite light, but then I started to have major shine issues during the day (mind you the weather didn't help) so I stopped using it in the mornings, and kept it for my overnight replenishment - magnificently moisturising, no obvious improvement in my skin though. Would suit gals with much drier skin than I have - my T-zone still churns out a ton of oil. AND I've said before that fragrance-free products bore me after a while, and that's what happened here, although I was delighted to finish it, and I'm ever so grateful for the opportunity to give it a try.. 

Repurchase? No - there are others that excite and entice (and suit) me more...

Nude Face Scrub

Fell in love with this almost a year ago (review here), and I'm still experiencing the same passion - my #1 fave scrub, and has never been absent from my bathroom shelf. Simply put it has the best consistency, exfoliating power and fragrance (lemon/lime) of anything I've ever used ♥...

Repurchase? Forever and a day...

St. Ives Oatmeal Scrub + Mask

Discovered and reviewed at the same time as the Nude one, this is another that is a constant in my life. There's something so yummy and comforting about the oatmealy floral smell, plus I love the fact that I can leave it on as a mask. It's incredibly soothing ♥...

Repurchase? Yes - I always buy a spare before it runs out...

LonVitalite Coconut Milk Hydrating & Nourishing Facial Mask

Another treat that came in my Bloggers United AU prize. For whatever reason, I avoided these cloth type masks for many many moons, but I'm totally sold now. In fact I may NEVER use a regular mask again. The big attraction with this was that I spent 20 minutes on my bed doing absolutely nothing. Unheard of for me, but there you go, I did it, and I'll be doing it again - I reckon it's good for this gal. The mask itself is super easy to apply (although it takes a little untangling), but once on my face, I just laid back and let it cool and calm my skin. When the time was up I lifted off the cloth and splashed a little warm water on my face and patted it dry - talk about glowing, my skin felt (and looked) like new! Love the fresh natural fragrance too - winner ♥...

Repurchase? I have another up my sleeve already, but I need to do a bulk order so I can pamper myself a few times per week...

Swisspers Make-Up Pads

I don't even look at other brands - never ever leaves fluff on my face, soft and gentle, but super strong too. I keep them in a large container on the vanity, which is why the wrapper hasn't appeared in my empties list before...
Repurchase? Constantly - I usually by three or four packs at a time and stash them away...

Ostelin Vitamin D

A few years ago I had a Vitamin D deficiency - too much time in front of the computer, and not enough outdoor activities no doubt. Hazardous at my age as without Vitamin D, calcium isn't absorbed, and my last bone density scan was an epic fail. So I don't take chances any more and have one of these capsules every day, and I think my body can handle the liquid form better...

Repurchase? I am never without a bottle...

Listerine Reach Dentotape

This tape is a lot wider than regular floss but I have largish gaps between some of my teeth, and this is the only one that lifts out whatever is well and truly wedged in place, although it is a tight fit. I alternate it with the Glide Pro Health Deep Clean Floss. Between the two of them, my gums are staying healthy - even my Dentist is impressed :-)
Repurchase? Several spares in the drawer because it's hard to find, but Chemist Warehouse always saves the day...

Garnier Nutrisse Permanent Nourishing Hair Colour - Copper Passion & Fiery Red

I'm perfectly happy with my L'Oreal and Schwarzkopf hair colourants, but this was on special and the Copper one was such a fabulous shade on the box lol! Works just as well for me as the others - about the same level of stink, and my hair was nice and soft afterwards. I never have a problem with fading anyway because of my dyeing frequency and the shampoo I use. The Fiery Red is coolish (for the roots), and the Copper Passion is warm (for the ends) - combining the two, I ended up with a gorgeous shade of red that's neither cool nor warm, just rich and bold. Hmm, I might have been converted...
Repurchase? Sure as eggs - I live in fear that the other brand reds will be discontinued, so I'm relieved to know this combo works brilliantly...  

Every Monthers, & already covered...

Dove Original Deodorant Stick
Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Make-Up Remover
Colgate Optic White Toothpaste
Schwarzkopf Brilliance Intense Permanent Hair Colour
L'Oreal Preference Premium Fade-Defying Colour

January empties post should be a bit more interesting as I'm experimenting with some new skin products - yep, Little Miss Fickle ♥

Take care of you,
kats xxx