January 2020 Empties & Giveaway!...

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

Body

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

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

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

Regulars

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

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

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

Face

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Regulars

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

Face Masks

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

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

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

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

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

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

Regulars

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

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

Hair

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

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

Repurchase?
Yes ♥♥...

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

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

Repurchase?
Already have ♥♥...

Regulars

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

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

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

Makeup

Ecotools Wonder Cover Complexion Brush (RRP $24.99)

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

Repurchase?
Never again...

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

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

Repurchase?
Would if I could ♥♥♥...

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

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

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

Regulars

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

Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Liner (RRP $15.95)

Maybelline Total Temptation Brow Definer (RRP $17.95)

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

Giveaway

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

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

All items were purchased by me (as part of the Advent Calendar) and the approximate value is $130.  The giveaway is open to...

Australian Residents Only! 

Here's how to enter...

1. Leave a blog post comment on this page that answers the question inside the Rafflecopter (please note: if you don't leave a comment on this page, you won't be included in the draw!) If you're unable to leave a comment for technical reasons, please email your answer to katshepsutt(at)gmail.com.
2. Leave your email address inside the Rafflecopter so I can contact you if you win
3. Follow my blog one way or another from the many choices listed
4. Only one entry per person, please read the T's & C's inside the Rafflecopter

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

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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

Congratulations gorgeous! 

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

Wednesday 26th February to claim your prize :-)

Edit: Gilded has claimed her prize ♥

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Best of luck to all who enter!

Take care of you,

kats xxx

December 2019 Empties & Giveaway!...

Another round of solid support for the retail sector! And getting in my December 2019 Empties post while the goodies are fresh in my mind, and before I resume the work routine, which will (sadly) restrict the frequency of my uploads, but on the other hand, will allow me to maintain my beauty addictions. ♥♥♥ I've also included a few little extras in the giveaway at the end to keep the spirit of Christmas going into what has been a devastating start to 2020 here in Australia. Praying those of you in fire-affected areas are all safe, and sending heartfelt thanks to all the brave Aussies working tirelessly to defend our beautiful country, and all the kind and generous souls offering their much-needed support in whatever way they can to the families and wildlife that are suffering ♥♥♥...

Body

Antipodes Deliverance Kowhai Flower Hand Cream (75ml, RRP $32)

Oh, I do so love this hand cream! Every application has been an absolute delight for its nourishing & moisturising properties (avocado, marigold & macadamia oils), the total absence of greasy aftermath, and the scent is right up my alley - orange and cedarwood, which is both comforting and refreshing. Don't like metal hand cream tubes from any brand, but this one at least didn't split before I used the last ml. Wherever I bought this from I certainly didn't pay $32 for it ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
Yes, but like most of my beauty purchases, I'm not prepared to pay full price, and probably not for a while as I have a stack to get through ♥♥♥...

Bosisto's Desert Lime & Eucalyptus Revitalising Hand Wash (300ml, RRP $6)

I think this is new - spotted it (and their body wash) for the first time not long ago at Coles, and pretty much any hand cleanser or shower gel that is SLS-free and not tested on animals will go into my trolley at least once. It's quite a pleasant scent, but the eucalyptus makes it a tad clinical - by that I mean a bit disinfect-y. Overall it's pretty good but has one flaw in the kats beauty ledger - it's too runny. When you depress the pump it has a tendency to squirt quite a long way (i.e. clean across the hand basin) unless you have your hand directly in front of it at the time. This happened in the rushing-out-the-door chaos of a workday morning and it landed on my top (grrrrr), so after that, I put it in the laundry to use it up ♥...

Repurchase?
No - it has a lot going for it, but the consistency is not what I could call user-friendly, and the marketplace has quite a few similar others that are way less squirty ♥...

Johnson's Pure Cotton Buds Applicators with Paper Sticks (Box of 150, RRP $2.69)

I used these for years then defected to another brand, but now I'm back and I'm staying. The only buds I (very carefully) insert in my outer ears because the tips don't ever fluff or fall off. They're also indispensable for cleaning my Bluetooth earbuds, makeup goofs, the insides of my lipstick tubes that get a bit mucky, and goodness knows what else. I keep the containers for bits and pieces like jewellery that needs repairing, collecting dead batteries for disposal, lipliner crayons that are too short for my standard holder etc. etc. They'll be in the Regulars section from now on ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
For as long as I wash my hair or wear makeup, which will, of course, be forever ♥♥♥...

Swisspers Dual Cosmetic Tips (Box of 100, RRP $2.99)

Another indispensable makeup tool, I use the pointy end to flick off unwanted mascara bits, tidy up my lipstick outline, and to clean my crayon sharpeners. The paddle end is brilliant for applying an extra touch of concealer or absorbing excess moisture from the eyelid crease. They've appeared before but will also join the Regulars section next time ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
They're sometimes hard to find so I stock up whenever I see them - currently four spares in the cupboard! ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Natures Commonscents Natural Goats Milk Body Wash (500ml, $8.00)
Reach Dentotape (20m, RRP $2.99)
SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Hydrating Body Wash (384ml, RRP $24.95)
White Glo Charcoal Total Mouth Detox Whitening Mouthwash (500ml, RRP $6.99)

Face

Klara Cosmetics Zero Pores + Primer (20ml, RRP $29.99)

Picked up two of these on clearance from Priceline without realising it was so expensive. It's actually a terrific primer and creates a beautifully smooth base for foundation, or I've even worn it on its own (around the house lol) - the clear silicone type but it doesn't leave any oily film on the skin surface like others I've tried, leaves the skin matte, smooth and even. It doesn't have any scent and it's not tested on animals. While Priceline no longer stocks the brand, they have a website, and this primer is listed as sold out ♥♥...

Repurchase?
While it's good, I doubt it - my fave one from DB Cosmetics is half the price ♥♥...

Neutrogena Pink Grapefruit Oil-Free Acne Wash (175ml, RRP $14.99)

Every summer I switch to a cleansing gel - the oil production in my T-zone goes into overdrive and I need something to control the flow as well as keep the blackheads from taking over. This time around I've renewed my acquaintance with this highly effective yet gentle-enough-for-mature-skin cleanser PURELY because I needed the pink grapefruit fragrance hit! I love it soooo much, especially in the really hot weather when I want something super refreshing at the end of the day. I used to buy the same thing as a scrub but I haven't seen it for years so it's probably discontinued - this one I can only find at Chemist Warehouse ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
Yep, bought another one 'cos I just can't get enough of the scent ♥♥♥...

Nivea Hyaluron Cellular Filler Day Cream SPF15 (50ml, RRP $27.99)

A bit embarrassed to say this was leftover from a beautyheaven trial in September 2018! I'd put it aside as I switched to retinol products and only just finished it now - no deterioration in the product though, and I gave it 5 stars in my bh review (about halfway down the page HERE). It's a beaut cream, but for me, its richness is better suited to cooler weather ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
I'll think about it closer to April ♥♥♥...

Nivea MicellAIR Skin Breathe Expert Make-up Remover (400ml, RRP $13.99)

Interestingly, I wasn't all that impressed with this, either as the main cleanser or second cleanser, even though it was quite effective. But then again I'm pretty fussy when it comes to the experience of a product. So this worked reasonably well at removing makeup, although I went through at least six cotton pads per go - the problem for me is that there isn't enough slip. I can't bear the feeling of something dragging over my skin - lord knows I don't need anything to pull my already sagging face, and I found this just didn't cut it, plus the remover pad started to disintegrate after the 3rd swipe, and that just doesn't happen with other products. The absence of a flip-top lid also niggled so I left the cap off permanently. Anyways, it has quite a lot going for it, but not for moi...

Repurchase?
No - I prefer a regular cleanser, washcloth, and micellar 2nd cleanse...

Sukin Rosehip Rejuvenating Facial Scrub (125ml RRP $13.95)

LOVED this! I'm mad keen on all Sukin scrubs, and this one just hit the #1 spot. I was a little nervous as I've given up some other rosehip products (from a different brand) because the scent was making me feel peculiar - not this beauty though. Such a gorgeous delicate fragrance and I love the texture of the scrub - not too grainy, but enough ground rosehip seeds and walnut shells to leave my face feeling smooth and soft ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

You betcha, and probably before any of the others from the range, that's how good it is ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Neutrogena Deep Clean Purifying Cooling Gel Scrub (100g, RRP $11.99)
Neutrogena Make-up Remover Cleansing Towelettes (Pack of 25, RRP $7.99) 
Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Make-up Remover (112ml, RRP $10.89) 
Olay Regenerist Miracle Boost Youth Pre-Essence (40ml, RRP $39.99) 

Face Masks
Regulars

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

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

Fragrance

Elizabeth Arden White Tea EDT (50ml, RRP $50)

One of my favourite spring/summer fragrances ever, I've decided I can't go through a sunny season without it. Bought this because of beautyheaven's review of it by @skincare junkie, and I was sold at first sniff. So pure, fresh and clean, my full review of it is HERE ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
I had assigned it the kats-can't-live-without status months ago and bought the 100ml bottle on special from feelingsexy for half price - score! ♥♥♥...

Hair

Goldwell Kerasilk Control Intensive Smoothing Mask (200ml, RRP $42.95)

Last appeared in December 2018 Empties post - this jar has lasted 12 months (instead of the usual 6) because I've been trying a couple of others that I scored, but this one is the ultimate. Nothing leaves my hair softer than this powerhouse, which is well worth the $$$ ♥♥♥... 

Repurchase?

Picking up another one tomorrow ♥♥♥...

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

Soooo, my plans to no longer dye my hair with a permanent colour have been shelved for the time being. Basically, colouring with semi-permanent turned out to be exceptionally high maintenance, the results weren't necessarily as expected, the finish was sometimes uneven despite all my care and attention, and going to work with greenish, purplish or bluish hair wasn't quite the right look for my role lol. So I've resumed the permanent regime, just adding the semis to achieve the silvery grey colour I'm after. How I wish I could buy a permanent silver hair colour in this country! As for this dye, the pigment wasn't as potent as the Salon Professional Brand (below), but hey it was half the price... 

Repurchase?

Nope - I only bought this because the store was out of the other brand...

Salon Professional Supplies Creme Peroxide 20 vol (200ml, RRP $5.95)

This is the developer for the hair dye I'm using - comes in various strengths and it's not too stinky... 

Repurchase?

I determined that I need the 30vol for the base, and 10vol for the toner, so no...

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

This wasn't dark enough, but I'm still experimenting to find the right intensity. In conjunction with the peroxide, it doesn't seem to be too damaging a combo, but I will still be adding my Olaplex every time I colour ♥... 

Repurchase?

Will buy the Light or regular Ash Blonde as soon as they are back in stock ♥...

Regulars

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

Makeup

NYX Cosmic Metals Lip Cream - Fuchsia Fusion (discontinued...sob)

The pinkest, fuchsia-est, most metallic, most vibrant, most compliment generating, most comfortable lip cream ever. Sorry NYX but what is wrong with you? Why oh why was this range a limited edition? The tube is empty, and my heart is broken ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
Would if I could, in a (broken) heartbeat ♥♥♥...

Tarte Shape Tape Contour Concealer (10ml, RRP $40)

Find of the month. Quite frankly, The Best Concealer I Have Ever Used. There...I've said it. This stuff covers ANYTHING and EVERYTHING and it doesn't crease, not even over and around my massive eye bags and the plethora of crinkles. At the end of the day, there is no change. Wow, I mean wow, the hype is true. I bought Light Neutral (22N) as it's a bit yellowy, perfect for my skin tone, and to cover the freckles under my eyes. I used to rave about IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye, but this Tarte is even better. Holey guacemoley, this is the one ♥♥♥♥...

Repurchase?
I have five other concealers, including two Kat Von D ones, but none of them is as effective, so yes, I just ordered another from Sephora ♥♥♥♥...

Regulars

Australis HD Translucent Loose Setting Powder (RRP $16.95)

Maybelline Total Temptation Brow Definer (RRP $17.95)

Giveaway

Up for grabs are...

• Olay Regenerist Pre-Essence
• Klara Cosmetics Zero Pores + Primer
• Elizabeth Arden White Tea Pure Indulgence Body Cream (100ml)
• Essence Crystal Power Eyeshadow Palette
• Essence Crystal Power Blush & Highlighter Palette (personal fave!)
• Lovisa Something Special Pale Pink Swarovski Halo Silver-tone Necklace & Stud Earrings set

All items were purchased by me and the approximate value is $135.  The giveaway is open to...

Australian Residents Only! 

Here's how to enter...

1. Leave a blog post comment on this page that answers the question inside the Rafflecopter (please note: if you don't leave a comment on this page, you won't be included in the draw!) If you're unable to leave a comment for technical reasons, please email your answer to katshepsutt(at)gmail.com.
2. Leave your email address inside the Rafflecopter so I can contact you if you win
3. Follow my blog one way or another from the many choices listed
4. Only one entry per person, please read the T's & C's inside the Rafflecopter

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

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Woo hoo! - random.org has chosen the beautiful Karen C. as the winner.  

Congratulations gorgeous! 

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

Wednesday 22nd January to claim your prize :-)

Edit: Karen has claimed her prize ♥

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Best of luck to all who enter!

Take care of you,

kats xxx

P.S. I've now included links to my reviews of the regulars wherever possible ♥

September 2019 Empties & Giveaway!...

At the risk of boring you, yep - two Empties posts in the same month! Thank goodness I was able to fit this second one in well before the end of October. I'm in a life phase where I just can't seem to manage more than one upload per week, but the wonderful feedback I receive from you folks on these mini product reviews is so encouraging, I no longer have any guilt about the frequency of my writing. Mind you, in this particular article there are so many regulars, it hasn't taken all that long to put it all together, which means I'm already working on the next one lol ♥...

Body

Glow Lab Coconut & Sandalwood Body Wash (400ml, RRP $9)

I'm crushing on this brand big time - these body washes are beautifully scented, and they give my bod a good dose of Betaine, Pro-Vitamin B5, Vitamin E & Argan Oil. Nicely hydrating, this and the Blackberry & Bay one make my shower experience even more pleasurable. The sandalwood fragrance is more pronounced than the coconut, but that suits me just fine. Not tested on animals, no sulphates, no parabens and available from Woolworths ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Absolutely ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Grahams Herbal Mineral Deodorant Roll-on (65ml, RRP $8.95)

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

Reach Dentotape (20m, RRP $2.99)

SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Hydrating Body Wash (384ml, RRP $24.95)

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

White Glo Charcoal Deep Stain Remover Whitening Mouthwash (500ml, RRP $6.99)

Face

Ecopure Bath Bamboo Fibre Face Cloths (pack of 2, RRP $12.99)

This pack finally appeared on the Priceline website, which is rapidly becoming the only way I shop with them - the local store so rarely has what I want in stock so I don't even bother going in any more, and they even admitted they don't sell any face washer other than the Halo. But I digress - these are my numero uno face cloths, so soft and gentle on my skin, yet they take all the gooped-up cleanser off, and with it all my trowelled-on makeup. They rinse out in seconds, the size is just right and they dry in a few hours ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Always ♥♥♥...

L'Oreal Micellar Water - Normal/Combination Skin (400ml, RRP $14.95)

I enjoyed using this and it worked brilliantly as my second cleanser - plenty of slip so the cotton pad didn't drag or break up, and removed whatever skerricks of gunk I'd missed with my cleanser, mainly around the hairline. It's been on my shelf for over a year, along with a few others remaining from my Micellar investigations. A wee bit more expensive, but they do claim that the water they use is 95% purified, so I guess that adds a premium ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Maybe - my fave is still the Biore Charcoal one, I just adore the scent of it ♥♥♥...

MAC Prep + Prime Skin (30ml, RRP $50)

What a treat to find a sample tube of this in last year's Myer Little Box of Beauty (fingers crossed they have another one this year). I've never been into MAC products - have tried and loved a few, but not this one, which gets raved about to this very day. And yes, it's a lovely primer, but is it any better than my DB Pore Minimising Primer that costs $15? Not for me - doesn't extend the life of my makeup any further, and the finish wasn't anywhere near as spectacular as I'd hoped. It's a beaut product, but I honestly can't see what all the gushing is about ♥...

Repurchase?

Naaah, I'll stick with my usual ♥...

Nutrimetics Ultra Care+ Platinum Tight Firm & Fill Eye Serum (10ml, RRP $66)

I'm a bit on the fence with this one. The matching face serum is UNBELIEVABLY effective however at $100+, it's a little out of my league. But I picked up this eye serum on special and was hoping for the same level of improvement to my old eyes, but it didn't quite happen. Being of advanced years, perhaps I need to use several tubes to see more obvious results. Sure it hydrates and firms, and has an interesting triple rollerball applicator that massages the serum into the skin, but I reckon the Olay Eyes delivers more noticeable improvements ♥...

Repurchase?

I think not ♥...

Trilogy Rosapene Radiance Serum (30ml, RRP $42.95)

I scored two bottles of this divine smelling serum back in the good old days when the Priceline Pink Diamond Quarterly Rewards included full-sized products, and you could choose which ones you wanted. I've not tried much from the Trilogy range but I'm quite impressed with this serum. Exceptionally hydrating, it absorbs well and really does give my skin a healthy-looking glow from within (pardon the advertising lingo), plus it had quite an obvious refining effect on the texture of my complexion - a truly lovely serum ♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

I would say yes, except that I've fallen love with the L'Occitane Immortelle Reset Serum that I treated myself to with my tax refund, I doubt I can keep buying it though as it's quite pricey, so the Rosapene will be a great alternative ♥♥♥...

Regulars

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

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

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Eye Cream (14ml, RRP $34.99)
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream with Accelerated Retinol SA (48g, RRP $48.99) 

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

Swisspers Make-up Pads (Pack of 80, RRP $3.79)

Face Masks

Skin Republic Wild Purifying Charcoal + Green Tea Panda Face Mask Sheet (RRP $7.99)

Darn it, I've not been making the time every week for my regular Selfcare Sunday sheet mask treat for months now, but I did manage a couple in September. This one was strictly for fun - it's quite impractical as the ears are soaked in serum and they stuck to my hair so it was a bit on the messy side. Nicely hydrated skin afterwards, but it didn't fit my face properly, and it's all a bit too gimmicky for me ♥...

Repurchase?

No - the Garnier one below is more effective, and a lot less trouble ♥...

Regulars

Garnier SkinActive Pure Charcoal Tissue Mask with Black Algae (RRP $4.99)

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

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

Fragrance

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

Oh oh oh. You know that feeling when you find THE product that is precisely what you're looking for and meets, even exceeds your performance expectations? Well, this Ecoya Reed Diffuser is THE ONE for moi. Mind you it is a Limited Edition, so I've just bought three of them from DJ's so I can continue to experience the bliss that is this room fragrancer for many months to come. It's the most beautiful fruity fresh but also soft and cosy apricot, papaya and mango scent with an undercurrent of tonka bean. It calms me every time I walk into the room and take a long slow breath. I've tried SO MANY reed diffusers over the years, but nothing beats the way this particular one permeates the entire room without overwhelming it. Absolute perfection! ♥♥♥♥...

Repurchase?

Ridiculous question! ♥♥♥♥...

Hair

Provoke Touch of Silver Toning Treatment Mask (200ml, RRP $12.95)
This works well to neutralise brassiness, and it does add ashy tones when left on for 10 minutes or so. It also conditions nicely, but like a lot of these drugstore products for blondes, the smell is pretty bad. I used it up to not throw it away, but the Goldwell Color Revive is far superior, and the one I will be using going forward ♥...
Repurchase?
Negative ♥...

Salon Professional Supplies Pro-Colour - Violet Toner (100ml, RRP $14.95)
Ok so I mentioned in my last Empties post that I'd changed my home hair colouring process, and this product is a key element in the strategy. I decided to go grey and stop using permanent colourants the last time I had my Kerasilk treatment in September - a side effect of the treatment is that a whole lot of (home) dye is removed during the process without damaging the hair follicle. So there I was, a very pale slightly strawberry blonde and I thought the hell with trying to cover up white roots every two weeks, plus my brain must be so loaded with chemicals that have seeped in through my scalp over the years ha ha. AND, you can't buy permanent grey hair colour in stores - you can only have it done at a salon. So I decided to get rid of as much of the leftover gold as possible (ultimately getting back to my natural white), and then only use semi-permanents, like the Live Colour ones below.  This Violet Toner is simply the best - I had to apply it a few times mixed with 30 Vol peroxide, but my hair has been pretty much neutralised now, so I should only have to use it sparingly going forward, if at all, and paired with the weakest peroxide solution ♥♥♥...
Repurchase?
Yes, I have a tube squirrelled away for when the yellow returns ♥♥♥...

Schwarzkopf Live Colour Pastels - Cool Grey & Metallic - Lilac Chrome (RRP $5.49)
My new hair colourants! The Cool Grey has a slightly greenish tinge when applied over hair with even a tinge of gold, so I've been balancing it out with the Lilac Chrome. I mix the two together in a bowl and leave it on for 45 minutes - the result is a gorgeously intense gunmetal grey that fades to an equally gorgeous steel grey after a few weeks. The beauty of this new system is that even though my roots are white, they blend in far more naturally with the grey. I'm as happy as a clam ♥♥♥...
Repurchase?
I have about 10 packs of each under the bathroom sink, all purchased on special ♥♥♥...

Regulars

Goldwell Kerasilk Control Conditioner (250ml, RRP $34.95)
Schwarzkopf OSIS+ Sparkler Shine Spray (300ml, RRP $27.95)

Makeup

Regulars

Australis HD Translucent Loose Setting Powder (RRP $15.95)
Eye of Horus Serpentine Sultry Goddess Pencil (1.2g, RRP $30)

Giveaway

Up for grabs are some of my beloveds...

• Ecopure Bath Bamboo Fibre Face Cloths
• Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Eye Cream
• Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Serum with Accelerated Retinol SA
• Schwarzkopf OSIS+ Sparkler Shine Spray

All items were purchased by me and the approximate value is $115.  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 and I'll post it for you. But you will still have to enter the comp via the Rafflecopter.
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 Lauren A. as the winner.  

Congratulations gorgeous! 

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

Wednesday 30th October to claim your prize :-)

Edit: Lauren has claimed her prize ♥

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Best of luck to all who enter!

Take care of you,

kats xxx