January 2019 Empties & Giveaway!...

I've been working on a lippie post, and planned to finish this huge January 2019 Empties one next weekend - well that was until it dawned on me that February ends today! And with the weather already cooling down considerably, I need to think about getting my skincare organised for the seasonal change. It's not all that different, but I do shift from a gel cleanser to a balm or oil and up the hydration strength of my creams. This post includes some products from a new range (well new to me anyway) I've been trying out which may or may not get me through the winter, and I'll probably do a feature post soon 'cos I'm loving them, but for now, here we go ♥...

Body

Dermaveen Shower & Bath Oil (500ml, RRP $16.99)
Full review HERE ♥...
Repurchase? Probably not as I don't seem to need it now that I've gotten rid of all my body washes containing SLS ♥...

Marc Anthony Renewing Macadamia Oil Body Wash (500ml, RRP $12.99)

Already reviewed HERE ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Hopefully - the Priceline store where I found it is closing, and the remaining one doesn't stock it, but it's available from their website ♥♥♥...

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

Raved about this in my September Empties post HERE. I've reached a plateau with the fading of my freckles, but I'll persist as this has really made a difference to the intensity of the dark spots, and with the weaker winter sun, I'm hoping there'll be some further improvement over the next six months ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Absolutely ♥♥♥...

Rexona Invisible Dry Antiperspirant Deodorant Stick (42g, RRP $4.49)

First time trying this. In general, I prefer a stick for the hot weather as it dries within seconds, and my preferred natural deodorant just doesn't control the wetness when the temperature soars. Not too fussed on the fragrance, but this is certainly effective on the hottest most humid days ♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yes, but not until next summer ♥♥...

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

Numerous reviews of this in the past, most recent one HERE. I might have to shift this into the Regulars section going forward as I ALWAYS have a bottle of this in my caddy ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Sure bet ♥♥♥...

Face

Beauty Skin Care Micellar Cleansing Water (200ml, RRP $?)

Can't remember when I bought this or how much it cost, but it was from Chemist Warehouse and it was cheap as chips - it's no longer available, which is a pity as it was lovely. Non-drying, excellent slippage, delicate baby powder fragrance, made in the Netherlands ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

No longer listed - boo! ♥♥♥...

Burt's Bees Replenishing Lip Balm with Pomegranate Oil (4.25g, RRP $6.95)

Wasn't so keen on this - for a "replenishing" lip balm I expected something richer that would give my shrivelled lips a major juice boost but it didn't quite happen. It hydrated a bit, but I prefer something that really softens and comforts my pout with one slick, whereas I needed to apply this over and over again ♥...

Repurchase?

Not this particular flavour/formula - currently loving their pink grapefruit one which hydrates brilliantly ♥...

Neutrogena Deep Clean Micellar Gel to Foam Cleanser (142ml, RRP $16.99)

I've been madly trying to use this up before autumn - it's nice enough and I love the fragrance, but it's simply too drying for any time of year except high summer. Cleanses magnificently. I have the Normal to Dry skin variety as well which I'm also doing my best to finish off this month - it's also too drying for my old face...

Repurchase?

No, the Hydro Boost is the one for me ...

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Anti-Ageing Moisturiser with Accelerated Retinol SA & SPF 15 (29ml, RRP $39.99)

So this is the range I've been stuck on since December, and it's awesome. I'm seeing some real results in skin smoothing, refining and pore-shrinking, but because I'm also using the serum and night cream, I don't know if any single product is responsible - it's quite possibly a combination of all three. Anyways I'm sticking with this regime for as long as I can. I haven't been involved too much in retinol products before, but can really see a major improvement in my skin texture - woo hoo! ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Absolutely, and I've not paid full price as yet ♥♥♥...

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream with Accelerated Retinol SA (29ml, RRP $48.99)

This is the big daddy of the range - still experiencing some tingling when I apply it, but to me, that means it's working. No redness or flaking, so far this has been potent enough hydration-wise to get me through the night, and I hope that continues into the cooler months because I don't think I want to stop using this stuff EVER. Smells beautiful and I can't wait to take off my makeup and night! ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yes indeedy - between Priceline and Chemist Warehouse, this range seems to be on special fairly regularly ♥♥♥...

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Serum with Accelerated Retinol SA (29ml, RRP $42.99)

Have only been using this at night, for no other reason than I have a stack of serums that I don't want to toss out. But once they're all used up, I'll probably use this one day and night exclusively ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Ditto ♥♥♥...

Sukin Purely Ageless Restorative Night Cream (120ml, RRP $22.95)

I'm a Sukin lover from way back, and was super excited to try this range - adore the serum, but I found this night cream just wasn't potent enough for winter. I've been stuck on another brand for the last few months so I've been using up the jar contents on my bod to not waste it, and it's been terrific for my arms and legs. Smells delish, and of course, it's full of goodness and minus all the crappy stuff  ♥...

Repurchase?

Not at this stage ♥...

Face Masks

7th Heaven Dead Sea Mud Cleanse & Detoxify Hard Drying Mask (175g, RRP $10)

This is actually an AMAZING mud mask, and my skin looks and feels fabulous afterwards. But towards the end of the tube, I couldn't handle the smell any more. It's way way strong - deliciously refreshing and aquatic, salty, seaweedy, fruity all combined, but once I put it on, I have to keep moving until it dries or else the scent is overwhelming. The tube has lasted me well over 12 months so I reckon it's awesome value, and I'll try another variety, probably a sachet size before I buy the big tube ♥...

Repurchase?

Not this particular one ♥...

Neutrogena Hydro Boost 100% Hydrogel Mask (RRP $5.99)

Oh bliss, oh joy. This is a beauty. I do love two-piece sheet masks - they're just so much easier to handle and fit. If your skin is thirsty, then this will quench it. So cooling and refreshing, and I love that there are little flaps for eyes and lips so you can cover them too if you wish, which I did. If they made this in a body suit, I'd encase myself in it every week ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Already have, but I'll buy the box of 5 next time ♥♥♥...

Nutrimetics Ultra Care+ Clarifying Clay Treatment with Kaolin Clay & Black Rice Powder (60ml, RRP $69)

A lovely clay mask that has amazing deep cleansing and refining qualities, but it's dark grey and contains little sloughing granules, so for me, that means it's a shower-only product from a mess and rinse-off perspective, but then I can't leave it on for as long as I'd like. Dilemma! From memory it was a GWP so I'm not complaining, it just doesn't suit the way I run my skincare routine ♥...

Repurchase?

Love it but no, and actually the price is quite prohibitive ♥...

Hair

Goldwell Kerasilk Control Smoothing Fluid (75ml, RRP $35.95)

This is the magical non-greasy leave-in elixir that keeps my hair super smooth between Kerasilk treatments. A bottle lasts for around 12 months as you only need a few squirts in your palms to run through towel-dried hair. Has the same fresh and inoffensive fragrance as the shampoo and conditioner ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

That'll be a big yes ♥♥♥...

SheaMoisture Jamaican Black Castor Oil Strengthen & Restore Shampoo (384ml, RRP $24.95)

I trialled this for beautyheaven back in September and gave it 5 stars. Awesome SLS-free and colour safe shampoo with a natural earthy fragrance, it's ideal for anyone with damaged or distressed tresses. Very soothing, smoothing, enriching and silkifying (is that a word?), and riddled with goodies like organic shea butter, peppermint and apple cider vinegar ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yes, but not immediately as it seems to have worked its magic and I don't seem to need it any more - it's actually too rich now! ♥♥♥...

P.S. A reminder that you can use my discount code "KATS" on the SheaMoisture website for 30% off!

Regulars

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

The best, gentlest, most effective waterproof eye makeup remover ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yes - I stock up when it's on special, always at least three spares in my drawer! ♥♥♥...

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

Can't live without this stuff ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Forever ♥♥♥...

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

My under-eye maintainer ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Always ♥♥♥...

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

The best and tastiest mouthwash I've found so far - actually I probably won't try anything else as this one suits me just fine ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yep ♥♥♥...

Home

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

The only one I didn't like - smells like chocolate, and while I'm a chocoholic, I'm not keen on anything fragranced with it. But I kept the cute little stiletto sling-back heel charm that was hanging around the neck... 

Repurchase?

No...

Makeup

Mirenesse Smooth Nude CC Hydra Makeup Mousse (40g, RRP $39)

My current fave foundation - the colour (Vienna) is perfect for me for summer, and I blend it with a BB cream that has 50+ SPF. The formula is matte medium coverage, and it gives me a superb air-brushed finish. Mirenesse foundations are among the best in the market, and this is one of their cheaper ones, but the quality is still there. Lasts all day and doesn't crease ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

Yes, I'm on my next tube already ♥♥♥...

Giveaway!

• Olay Regenerist Miracle Boost Youth Pre-Essence
• Nutrimetics Ultra Care+ Hand Repair SPF 15
• Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Make-Up Remover
• Neutrogena Hydro Boost 100% Hydrogel Mask
• 3 packs of Purederm Ginkgo Eye Puffiness Minimizing Patches

And to make it a little more enticing, I'm including this cute-as jewellery set from Lovisa featuring teal blue Swarovski crystals...

All items were purchased by me and the total prize value is approx $120. The 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

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This giveaway is now closed
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Woo hoo! - random.org has chosen the beautiful Gwendolyn J. as the winner.  

Congratulations gorgeous! 

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

Wednesday 13th March to claim your prize :-)

Edit: Gwendolyn has claimed her prize ♥

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

Best of luck to all who enter!

Take care of yourself,

kats xxx

SPOTLIGHT: March Empties 2018 + Giveaway!...

Well, I guess no-one can say that I never finish products! Not a bad effort for March and this post is late yet again because of the time it takes to put it all together, but I sure do get a wonderful sense of achievement when I hit "Publish", and my recycle bin gets a good feed haha. Oh and there's a special treat with the giveaway this time around, so off we go lovelies ...

Body

Cutex Nourishing Nail Polish Remover (100ml, RRP $4.99)

This was my polish remover of choice (for my toes), but as of a couple of months ago, I stopped painting my own toenails, and now I have them shellacked at a salon - holey guacemoley, what rock have I been living under?...

Repurchase?

Not anymore, but it was the best and most effective for standard gel nail polish...

Cutex Acetone Free Nail Polish Remover (100ml, RRP $4.99)

So much kinder to my nails than regular remover, but takes a bit more soaking and rubbing...

Repurchase?

Even though I'm now having my toenails painted at a salon, I still need this for removing sticky marks that come off my shoes and dull the shellac, and it doesn't damage the glossy finish, so yes, bought some today in fact ♥♥♥...

Natura Siberica Oblepikha Shower Gel (400ml, RRP $12.99)

I wasn't a fan of this shower gel when it first came out - there was a sharpness to the fragrance that didn't appeal initially, but things change, well...I changed, and now I love it! Being tall and slim it takes up minimal space in my caddy, the turquoise bottle is a standout amongst the others, it contains lots of interesting Siberian herbs, no SLS, and it doesn't dry out my skin. Hoping that one day I'll be able to pronounce it lol...

Repurchase?

Definitely! ♥♥♥...

Nutrimetics Nutri-Rich Shower Oil (200ml, RRP $38)

This creates such a beautiful shower experience, I wish it wasn't so expensive. But just about everything from this brand eventually goes on sale, and surprise surprise, the replacement for this bottle was a freebie with my last order - score! A very interesting product - yes it's an oil, but when mixed with water it foams into a light and creamy cleanser that moisturises the skin without leaving it feeling greasy, or making the shower floor slippery. The apricot fragrance is to die for, and I don't need to apply any body lotions or potions afterwards. Very softening, very hydrating, very nice...

Repurchase?

Undoubtedly ♥♥♥...

Nutrimetics Ultra Care Platinum Hand Therapy (75ml, RRP $42)

Well, it's called Hand Therapy, and that just about sums it up. Superb hand cream with a soft baby powder scent that smooths and hydrates the most withered skin. I didn't notice any reduction in my brown spots, but I'd say a few tubes would be needed for that. Love the glam silver (platinum) packaging. It's as good as the L'Occitane Shea Butter one, and absorbs COMPLETELY!...

Repurchase?

That'll be a yes, as soon as it's on special ♥♥♥...

Original Source Limited Edition Hibiscus & Pomegranate Tea Shower Gel (250ml, RRP $3.99)

Fell for the scent of this bargain shower gel quite a while ago, and being a Limited Edition, I stocked up. Crisp and refreshing, this is a beaut all-year-round body wash that lathers well and the delicate fruity-floral fragrance is 100% natural. Contains SLS, but unlike numerous other products with this tricky ingredient, it doesn't dry or irritate my skin ...

Repurchase?

Would if I could but I think it's only available on eBay now - fortunately I still have several bottles stashed away in the cupboard ♥♥♥...

Face

BioEffect Day Serum (5ml sample, 30ml, RRP $195)

Crikey, from memory this sample came in an Adore Beauty order, but I nearly fainted when I looked it up and found out that a 30ml bottle costs $195!!!! It's an interesting formulation - the clear gel is amazingly smooth and a tiny amount spreads in a flash. It feels almost like silicone, but boy does it hydrate! No scent that I can detect and some of the online reviews are from gals that swear by it. Honestly, I didn't notice any change or improvement in the short period of time I was using it, but I may have been a bit more observant and frugal with the dispensing if I'd known how much it costs lol...

Repurchase?

Umm, I doubt it - lovely serum, but for that price, I need it to work an overnight miracle!...

L'Oreal Pure Clay Detoxifying Gel Wash (150ml, RRP $14.95)

Definitely one of my favourite cleansers. My passion for anything clay or charcoal is well documented, and this contains both, so it was bound to be a winner. Love the fresh fragrance, and while it's blackish in the tube, it becomes lighter grey when mixed with water and even foams up. It's one of those rare cleansers that removes every molecule of makeup from my face, and the rinse water doesn't leave a ring around my basin, which makes it a winner...

Repurchase?

I already have several of these stashed away (bought on special!) ♥♥♥...

L'Oreal Age Perfect Cell Renewal Advanced Regenerating Serum (30ml, RRP $49.95)

Trialled this for beautyheaven in March and gave it 5 stars - my review is towards the bottom of the page HERE. It's even better than the original formula, and I so looked forward to my beauty routines, both for the feel of it on my skin, and the revitalising lemony scent. Perfect overnight serum hydration-wise, and a beaut base for makeup too as it absorbs very quickly, and the pearly liquid contains tiny gold particles that give a slightly shimmery radiance to the complexion...

Repurchase?

No less than 6 serums on my bench, but as soon as they reduce to 3, I'll definitely be picking up another of these gems ♥♥♥...

Sukin Super Greens Detoxifying Facial Scrub (125ml, RRP $12.95)

My rave review of this is HERE...

Repurchase?

You betcha! ♥♥♥...

Face Masks

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

My latest under-eye-depuffing love (pictured below underneath the brown face mask) - these are slippery little suckers, so you can't really walk around with them on as gravity and the slightest movement makes them slide down, but they work a treat AND they contain charcoal. They work out to be $6 a pop, but who cares. LOVE!...

Repurchase?

Affirmative ♥♥♥...

Purederm Black Food Recipe MG:Gel Mask (RRP $3)

Exceptionally hydrating, and even (temporarily) firmed my jawline. Contains 17 black foods - whoa! - including black rice, black bean and blackcurrant. The blurb says that if you store it in the fridge, even more moisture will be released when you slap it on, so for me that little extra tip is a hot weather only one. Anyways for $3 from Kmart, it's a bargain and well worth trying to find it in amongst the gazillion masks they have for sale these days...

Repurchase?

Sure will - I have at least 30 sheet masks in stock to use up (gaahhhhh!), but I'll definitely be buying this one again ♥♥♥...

South Mane Lip Gel (Pack of 3, RRP US$9)

Also pictured above partially covered by the face mask, this pack of 3 came in a Lip Monthly box. They're huge and cover the entire lip area and surrounds, but are also very slippery so you need to lie down and not move your mouth at all. Nicely softening, but very little moisturising beyond the 10 minutes of wear...

Repurchase?

They seem to be only available from the US website, so I'll stick with the LonVitalite ones...

Skin Republic Bubble Purifying + Charcoal Face Mask (RRP $7.99)

Already raved about this one numerous times ...

Repurchase?

Absolutely! ♥♥♥...

Fragrance

Lanvin Eclat d’Arpège EDP (100ml, $140)

Just can't live without this beautiful fragrance in Spring & Summer - been buying it for years, and always ALWAYS receive compliments. Covered it succinctly in a previous empties post in 2016 (HERE) and nothing has changed - this stunner will forever be part of my life. BTW it is regularly on special at various outlets/websites, and I've never paid more than $65 for it...

Repurchase?

I make sure I have a spare even before I open a new bottle ♥♥♥...

Glasshouse Fragrances Beverly Hills Pink Lemonade Reed Diffuser (250ml, $42.95)

A full review of this beautiful baby HERE - it's so summery and fresh and fun! ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Affirmative, but not till next warm season ♥♥♥...

Hair

Schwarzkopf Live Colour Silver Toner (RRP $5.49)

I think this may work best if you have bleached blonde hair - it toned down the yellow in mine, but overall my colour was too dark for this to have anything other than a neutralising effect. Leaves the hair nicely conditioned and glossy though...

Repurchase?

No - the one below is what works for me...

Schwarzkopf Live Colour Pastels Cool Grey (RRP $5.49)

Now, this is the go - it actually adds colour, a lovely soft grey (not purplish or bluish). It may sound odd that I wanted to put grey in my hair, but it's true - my ultimate goal is ash blonde with silver streaks. I've decided to go with the flow a bit more, and change my colour to something that blends a whole lot better with my white roots, which are killers to cover up every 2 weeks. This cheap-as-chips semi-permanent has already helped get me closer to where I want my tresses to be without any more damage, and I will continue to use it every month or so (in addition to the Schwarzkopf Colour Specialist) to keep the yellows at bay... 

Repurchase?

It was recently on special at one of the supermarkets, so I bought 8 (yes 8!) boxes ♥♥♥...

Makeup

Maybelline COLORdrama Intense Velvet Lip Pencil - In With Coral (RRP $9.95)

The perfect coral colour for my skin tone and I also use it as a liner for some of my other lipsticks - lovingly reviewed the range HERE...

Repurchase?

Can't live without it ♥♥♥...

GIVEAWAY!

As usual, I've picked some faves from this month to giveaway, and the thought crossed my mind, why only have one winner? So to double the fun, there are TWO prize packs this time around!

Up for grabs are 2 packs (1 for each winner) containing...

• L'Oreal Pure Clay Detoxifying Gel Wash
• Skin Republic Bubble Purifying + Charcoal Face Mask Sheet
• Original Source Hibiscus & Pomegranate Tea Shower Gel
• Sukin Super Greens Detoxifying Facial Scrub
• BLAQ Charcoal Eye Mask

All products were purchased by me, and each pack is valued at around $45.

And again because of the weight, the giveaway is open to...

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS ONLY 

(To all you gals who are overseas, there'll be another International Giveaway soon - dinks!)

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

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

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

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Woo hoo - random.org has chosen the following 2 beauties as the winners!

Sonia A. & Leonie C.  

Congratulations lovelies! 

Sonia & Leonie please respond to the emails I've sent you by

Wednesday 9th May to claim your prize :-)

Edit: Sonia & Leonie have claimed their prizes ♥

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

Best of luck to all who enter!

Take care of you,

kats xxx

SPOTLIGHT: February Empties + Giveaway!...

We all know that February is a short month, but I didn't let that stop me powering through my usual truck-load of products - looking at this collective pic though, it seems that my sheet mask obsession is taking over lol! Actually, it's because I've been experimenting with "multi-masking" - applying up to four different masks concurrently on different areas. Well, why not I say? ALL my bits need work, so why only treat one section at a time, anyways here we go ♥...

Body

Compeed Blister Plasters (Box of 5, RRP $12.95)

I have quite a few pairs of sandals that have a closed in heel & ankle strap - for the first couple of wears when they're new, I find they often rub on the back of my heel, creating painful blisters. BUT, if I put on one of these patches first, it never happens. They are AHH-mazing, and even if a blister has already started to form, sticking one of these over the top stops the blister from a) getting any bigger, b) allows the inflamed area to heal without any risk of infection ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Never without a pack of these in my handbag! ♥♥♥

Natural Secrets Goatsmilk Moisturising Soap with Lemon Myrtle (100g, RRP $3.75)

There are a few varieties of this soap, but the Lemon Myrtle one is my fave, with a lovely crisp and fresh scent. The fragrance is very delicate though and doesn't transfer to your skin, so if you are sensitive to scents you won't have a problem. I always have a cake of this on the vanity for those times when I want a real good lathering that won't dry out my hands ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

This one was so kindly sent to me, but I've already bought another, it's so cheap hey ♥♥♥... 

Nature's Way Beauty Collagen Gummies (Jar of 40, RRP $19.99)

First discovered these in the beautyheaven 10th Birthday bag and it was love at first munch. I decided to keep buying them and give them at least 3 months to see if there was any change in my skin structure or texture. The result was a very slight firming around the jawline, but sadly not enough to be noticeable by anyone except me. Already I miss the taste though lol...

Repurchase?

No - the improvement was negligible, and not worth pursuing for just over $40 a month...

Purederm Moisture & Nourishing Hand Mask (RRP $4)

I haven't tried too many Hand Masks, but this one is the best so far. Very softening and hydrating, and while the gloves are voluminous enough to fit the Incredible Hulk, they at least stayed on my hands while I napped. The serum contains peach extract and shea butter ♥...

Repurchase?

Yes, I have a couple on my bench to get me through the dehydrating winter months ♥...

Thankyou Botanical Geranium & Rosewood Body Wash (500ml, RRP $8)

Full review HERE...

Repurchase?

While I enjoyed this variety, the Lemon Myrtle & Goat's Milk has won my heart ...

Face

A'kin Micellar Water (150ml, RRP $14.95)

Mmm one of the loveliest micellar waters I've had the pleasure to use - effective, soothing and cooling with a subtle botanical fragrance, contains organic coconut water & green tea. But for the $$$, it would want to be lovely! When you compare it to Essano or Garnier, the quantity equivalent would be $40, putting it up there with Bioderma pricing ♥...

Repurchase?

I'll probably buy another bottle as a treat for myself now and then ♥...

Beauty by Nicholas Eye Alchemy (15ml, RRP $49.99)

In-depth review HERE ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Absolutely - haven't found anything better yet! ♥♥♥...

Grown Alchemist Hydra-Repair Day Cream Camellia & Geranium (65ml, RRP $65)

Came in a DJ's beauty bag from memory, beautiful BEAUTIFUL cream, exquisitely fragranced, amazingly hydrating. It's one of those rare products where water is not first on the ingredients list, instead there's Aloe Vera, followed by no less than eight botanical oils. No wonder it's pricey! It's actually so intense I was using it as a night cream, although it's surprisingly non-greasy. Certified organic ingredients, and not tested on animals. If you're into organic natural skin care, then this is the bomb ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Probably - I have a stack of other day creams in my drawer, which I need to work through before they go past their use-by date ♥♥♥...

L'Oreal Pure Clay Exfoliating Scrub (150ml, RRP $15.95)

Lovely gentle scrub that I would use every day if I wasn't the kind of gal who gets bored easily, but I am, and so I have a wide variety of scrubs because I don't want to tire of the ones I adore. Having said all that, this is a keeper - it smells so nice, and leaves my skin all smooth and flake-free ♥...

Repurchase?

Sure will, just as soon as I have some room in my shower caddy ha ha ♥...

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

Being a charcoal fiend, I just had to try this, and it's an equal favourite with  Graham's Natural cleanser (the range is now available at Chemist Warehouse BTW!). I'm particularly loving gel cleansers at the mo', and this Sukin one is a pleasure to use - takes off all my long-wear makeup, doesn't foam up too much, very subtle charcoaly sent, it's a very pale greyish colour which doesn't stain my washcloth, non-drying, and of course no harsh chemicals, and not tested on animals. Amazing value for such a quality product ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Done deal! ♥♥♥...

Face Masks

Garnier SkinActive Pure Charcoal Tissue Mask with Black Tea (RRP $4.95)

Same great fit as the Black Algae one, but not as hydrating for my skin's needs

Repurchase?

No, the Black Algae one is best for moi...

Lacura De-Stress Cloth Face Mask (RRP $2.99)

Some Aldi products are so-so and others are brilliant - this is one of the brilliant ones, and if you ever see it on their specials tables in the centre of the store, then you can't go wrong for the price. Lashings of serum that penetrated my pores for a major moisture boost. It's a bit sticky afterwards until it dries/sinks in, but that doesn't bother me ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

If I ever see it again, YES! ♥♥♥...

LonVitalite C7 Collagen & Gold Lip Mask (Box of 6, RRP $35)

Had to try these now didn't I (in the pic below) - totally in love with them, they work out at around $6 each, but well worth it if you have vertical lines above your mouth, the smoothing of them lasted till well into the wee hours, so these are the go for special occasions ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Absolutely - hoping that Adore Beauty has them on special soon! ♥♥♥...

Mirenesse Power Lift Superstar Eye Sheet Mask (RRP $16)

Was very happy to receive these in one of my bi-monthly VIP packs. Cooling, firming and hydrating, but the $16 price tag is over the top for what you get. I've had the same results from my $3 for 2 pairs Purederm ones below...

Repurchase?

No...

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

Still raving about these ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Forever ♥♥♥...

Sephora Rose Lip Mask (RRP $4)

Already covered this in my November Empties post...

Repurchase?

I prefer the Shea Butter formula, so probably not...

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

Oh wow, if you have a sagging jawline or jowls, you need this. It's a two-part pack - top section contains a serum that you massage into the lower half of your face, and then stretch the "sling" to cradle the area, and hook it onto your ears. As you can see this is appearing in three of my pics because it's just sensational. I stocked up at the Priceline sale, and will do so again whenever it's on next! ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

In a heartbeat, but I'm prepared to wait till it's on special ♥♥♥...

Skin Physics Total 360 Eye Revive Mask (RRP $9.99)

Another one to add to your Priceline Skincare sale next time around - hydrogel material that cools, hydrates and firms (pic above). Love how it covers the entire eye area - not quite as remarkable results as the aforementioned Instant Lift one, but still pretty darn good ♥♥...

Repurchase?

Yes, but probably only if it's on special ♥♥... 

Fragrance

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

Reviewed HERE - love this perfume, pure romance, sounds like it will be really sweet but the blend is perfection ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

I can't really justify it right now as I have so many, but I know I'll miss it too much, and undoubtedly cave! ♥♥♥...

Hair

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

My hairdresser put me onto this after a bleaching disaster that fried some of the hair on my crown. I swear there is no damage that this BRILLIANT product can't repair. You wet your hair and apply it for at least 15 minutes (1 hour for me) before shampooing - it rebuilds the hair shaft, and transforms stretchy cotton-woolly strands into strong healthy ones. This is often on special at Adore Beauty which is where I bought my last batch ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

For as long as I'm home-colouring my tresses, YES! ♥♥♥...

Makeup

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

Have included this in empties posts before - it's the only kit I've come across (and I've tried HEAPS) that has one pan that's the perfect shade for contouring my nose ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Always, but I never pay full price for it ♥♥♥...

Colourpop Creme Gel Liner - Over Board (RRP USD5)

I'm a huge Colourpop fan, and their Creme Gel Liners are my 2nd favourite for the waterline because they're creamy, they last so well, and don't irritate my eyes. I have one major gripe though - the colour product of every single pencil or wind-up liner I have in my kit from this brand has broken off or become detached from the base. It either gets stuck in the lid or it falls on the floor. Major design flaw - grrrrrr...

Repurchase?

Despite my above wingeing, probably - this bronzey colour is just plain gorgeous and I'm pining for it already ♥♥♥...

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

I go through one of these every three months - the only waterproof mascara for me ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

It's a done deal ♥♥♥...

GIVEAWAY!

As usual, I've picked some faves from this month to giveaway to one of you lovelies ♥...

• Olaplex Hair Perfector No.3
• Sukin Oil Balancing Charcoal Purifying Gel Cleanser
• Lacura De-Stress Cloth Face Mask
• Purederm Moisture & Nourishing Hand Mask
• Skin Physics Instant Lift V-Shape Vitality Mask

All products were purchased by me, the total value is around $85, 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 - check back later tonight to see who won!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Woo hoo! - random.org has chosen the beautiful Michelle F. as the winner.  

Congratulations gorgeous! 

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

Friday 30th March to claim your prize :-)

Edit: Michelle has claimed her prize ♥ 

Thanks for entering lovelies - there'll be another giveaway soon!

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Best of luck to all who enter!

Take care of you,

kats xxx