Showing posts with label botanicES. Show all posts
Showing posts with label botanicES. Show all posts

Friday, 14 June 2019

May 2019 Empties & Giveaway!...

This may well be my biggest empties post yet! I mentioned in my April article that I was "over" having multiple opened skincare products on my bench, so I'm in the middle of a blitz clearing everything that's part-used. While there are only two "old" creams here (eye & day moisturiser), the big win was actually the shower stall where I managed to clear several hair products and face scrubs that I've had in rotation for many months. Feels SO GOOD I can assure you! ...

May 2019 Empties

Body

La Roche-Posay Lipid-Replenishing Cleansing Oil (400ml, RRP $33.95)
This 100ml sample tube came in a beauty box a long long time ago - having only recently experienced its wondrous moisturising powers in the shower, I was feeling quite silly for keeping it in the drawer for so long. But then I read the label and saw the SLS content, and now I'm in a quandary because my skin sure seems to love this slightly foaming cleanser ...
Repurchase?
Despite it being such a lovely product, probably not...

Reach Dentotape (20m, RRP $2.99)
I keep forgetting to hang onto this container to include it in my empties. After this post, it will appear in the Regulars section as I go through at least one pack a month flossing after every meal. This is a can't-live-without, the ONLY floss worth buying in my book! I have a mixture of wide and tight gaps between my teeth, and this tape is the only one that works for every instance, doesn't fray, and doesn't hurt my gums. Being extra wide, it lifts out even the minutest chunks of debris and those hard to shift berry seeds. The crazy thing is that I can only buy it at Chemist Warehouse, so I usually pick up in-store or order online at least five packs at a time ...
Repurchase?
For as long as I have teeth! ...

SheaMoisture Raw Shea Butter Hydrating Body Wash (384ml, RRP $24.95)
So softening, so moisturising, so beneficial for dry skin. My review is HERE ...
Repurchase?
Most definitely - a reminder that if you enter the "KATS" code at the checkout, you get 30% off! ...

Skin Physics Advance Superlift Caviar Age-Recovery Hand & Nail Renewal Cream SPF15 (75ml, RRP $39.99)
Hand cream is another I'll be putting into focus over the next few months as I'm notorious for having anything up to 10 "in progress" tubes lying around the house, office, handbag, car. But it will be a big challenge to clear those as I fell so deeply in love with this hand cream that came my way at the beautyheaven Glosscars event back in March. At $40 for 75ml, it's what I would call expensive, but I'm prepared to pay that much for my next tube because I consider it a treatment product. If the ingredients list sequence is anything to go by, I don't think there's much caviar content, but the formula is certainly a winner for hands of advanced age like mine. The cream is quite runny, but sure packs a punch as far as moisturising potency is concerned, together with delivering tangible results in spot lightening, wrinkle reduction, nail strengthening and overall skin plumping. It has a faint fresh scent and absorbs lightning fast, leaving no greasy residue. The only thing I don't like is the tube, which is flat and unstable when stood on end - it topples over when the cat sneezes in another part of the house, but I can live with that because it's so good ...
Repurchase?
I certainly will, just as soon as I finish off my MASSIVE tube of L'Occitane, that was also gifted by beautyheaven ...

Regulars
Johnson's Baby Cotton Buds (Box of 60, RRP $2.99)
White Glo Charcoal Total Mouth Detox Whitening Mouthwash (500ml, RRP $6.99)


Face

BotanicES Eye Creme (15ml, RRP $40)
My review of this fab eye cream is HERE. I've been somewhat unfaithful to it over the last 18 months in that I've been trying quite a few others that came my way as gifts, freebies or trials, and am currently stuck on a retinol one, but I'll get back to this darling for the summer, which is when the consistency and moisturising power are perfect for my peepers ...
Repurchase?
Yep ...

Neutrogena Deep Clean Purifying Cooling Gel Scrub (100g, RRP $11.99)
Love this scrub, and especially its invigoratingly fresh scent, which wakes me up nicely on these cold dark mornings. Gentle yet effective for keeping my pores goop-free ...
Repurchase?
Already have ...

Nivea Cellular Anti-Age Day Cream SPF15 (50ml, RRP $27.99)
This was left over from last September when I was sent the revamped (Hyaluron) version to trial for beautyheaven. After that, I shifted to a retinol range, and then the Elasticity & Re-Densifying Day Cream arrived for trial (again from bh), so this one has been languishing on my bench with about one third left in the jar. Didn't want to toss it though as it's excellent ...
Repurchase?
It's not available any more, the new Hyaluron version is even better...

Nutrimetics Honey & Almond Scrub (125ml, RRP $40)
Actually covered my first tube of this (in many years) last month, so I may have to shift it to the Regulars section next time around. I powered through this second one in six weeks, that's how often I use it ...
Repurchase?
Yes, love it! ...

Olay Regenerist Advanced Anti-Aging Detoxifying Pore Scrub (150ml, RRP $14.99)
Another scrub that I absolutely adored. I bought it purely because it was on special, and I've decided it'll be a regular in my skin care kit from now on. Smells divine and it's gentle enough to use every other day - the exfoliant is silica. My only beef with this is the packaging - the red colouring of the label starts to wear off after a while, and it took a few "what the hell is that?" episodes before I figured out where the little red flakes on my face were coming from! ...
Repurchase?
Yes indeedy ...

St. Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub (150ml, RRP $9.99)
My shower caddy is never without this - it's my deep dive super clean mega scrub that I use once a week to really pare back the dead surface cells. Love the apricot scent, and even though it's the strongest scrub in my kit, it never ever causes any irritation. Been using it for years, and will continue to do so for as long as they make it ...
Repurchase?
Forever ...

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 Serum with Accelerated Retinol SA (29ml, RRP $42.99)
Olay Regenerist Miracle Boost Youth Pre-Essence (40ml, RRP $39.99)


Face Masks

Skin Republic Pink Clay Mud Sheet Mask (18g, RRP $12.99)
With the regularity of their appearances in these posts, it's safe to say that Skin Republic masks are very dear to my heart, and whenever they're on special, I stock up. This Pink Clay Mud one has been featured several times because it has so much going for it - full coverage, great fit, mess-free, deep cleansing, and it tightens pores. The only drawback is the price - but if you're like me, you'll hunker down until there's a deal at Priceline, Chemist Warehouse, Woolworths etc ...
Repurchase?
That'll be a yes ...

Skin Republic Pink Clay Mud Mask

Skin Republic Seaweed Hydrogel Mask (18g, RRP $12.99)
It's hard to beat hydrogel masks for a hydration boost. As effective at calming redness and infusing moisture as the Green Tea one, this one doesn't have quite as much chill so it's a more comfortable one for winter. They're both terrific, and my preference is always for a two-piece as they fit heaps better, and seem to be less likely to fall off ...
Repurchase?
Affirmative ...

Skin Republic Seaweed Hydrogel Mask

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


Fragrance

Vera Wang Princess Revolution EDT (50ml, RRP $49)
I reviewed this lovingly HERE. It's taken me three years to get through this totally gorgeous bottle of edgy deliciousness, but that's not surprising given I have so many others on my shelf (oops!). Sadly I can't find this anywhere except on eBay, so I guess I'll have to replace it with one of the many others in the Princess series ...
Repurchase?
Would if I could ...

Vera Wang Princess Revolution


Hair

Goldwell Kerasilk Control Shampoo (250ml, RRP $35.95)
Oddly enough, this is the first appearance of this brilliant shampoo on my blog, which is puzzling since I've been using it for years. A free bottle is included with every Kerasilk treatment (usually every three months) and then I only have to buy one more bottle to tide me over till the next session. Oddly enough it contains SLS (I've only just spotted it on the label - quelle horreur!) and yet it doesn't have any negative effects on either my hair or scalp. It has a lovely fresh scent and keeps my tresses glossy and in tip-top de-frizzed shape ...
Repurchase?
Despite the SLS content, always ...

O&M Original Detox Shampoo (350ml, RRP $32.95)
This was recommended by my hairdresser as I use quite a few styling products to achieve my latest messy look (lol!), and it works a treat as a clarifier - doesn't strip away the necessary oils nor any colourant. Being SLS-free it takes a bit of doing to get the first wash to foam up but after that no problem. What I'm not so keen on is the strong peppermint content, which I enjoy in toothpaste, mouthwash, Minties and chewing gum, but as a rule, not anywhere else ...
Repurchase?
No - I've since found something even more effective with a fragrance that I love...

Paul Mitchell Awapuhi Wild Ginger Keratin Cream Rinse (250ml, RRP $34.95)
This bottle was left over from the time when I was unable to buy the Goldwell Kerasilk Control Conditioner, and if I ever have that problem again, this is the conditioner I would purchase in a heartbeat as a replacement. It's truly fabulous - leaves my hair SO SOFT it doesn't even feel like hair ha ha! ...
Repurchase?
Absolutely, but only if I can't find my Kerasilk fave ...

Schwarzkopf OSIS+ Sparkler Shine Spray (300ml, RRP $27.95)
Discovered this during my ongoing search for a shine spray that doesn't weigh my hair down or build up after multiple uses. Well, this one (recommended by a Priceattack assistant) is pretty darn near perfect - unbelievable mirror shine, plus de-frizzing and conditioning. It does build up a little if you use it in the same quantity as hairspray but applied as recommended in short bursts, it's the ultimate gloss and makes even grey hair look fabulously healthy and vibrant ...
Repurchase?
You betcha ...

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


Makeup

Bourjois Healthy Mix Foundation - Beige (30ml, RRP $29)
Awesome foundation - the perfect colour match for my skin tone. Medium coverage with a soft dewy finish, I mix it most days (on the back of my hand) 50/50 with am SPF50 CC cream for a tad more density and protection. But it works brilliantly on its own as well, lasts a good 12 hours, more in the cooler weather when I don't sweat so much ...
Repurchase?
Definitely - as soon as I finish a couple of others ...

DB Cosmetics Flawless All in One Foundation Stick - True Beige (15g, RRP $14.99)
I always prefer to have at least one stick foundation in my kit at all times - reminds me of my drama school days and the pro makeup stash underneath the stage that we were able to raid whenever there was a performance. This one from DB is excellent for the price - it's quite creamy and provides full coverage if you need it, has a slightly dewy finish (that I set with a translucent powder,) lasts well throughout the day, and True Beige is a great match for me. I also use this with a cotton bud to clean up mascara or eye shadow specks around my eyes even when I'm using other foundations ...
Repurchase?
I was supposed to wait until I cleared some of the backlogs, but I bought another one today ...

Regulars
Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Liner (RRP $15.95)
Maybelline Total Temptation Brow Definer (RRP $13.95)
Maybelline Volume Express The Falsies Waterproof Mascara (RRP $19.95)


Giveaway!

As usual, I've bundled up some of this month's faves and added a cute Lovisa boxed jewellery set 

Giveaway prize

Here's a closeup of the necklace and earrings - they're so sparkly!

Lovisa Jewellery set
  • Lovisa Owl Necklace & Earring Set
  • Maybelline Volume Express The Falsies Waterproof Mascara
  • Neutrogena Deep Clean Purifying Cooling Gel Scrub
  • Olay Regenerist Advanced Anti-Aging Detoxifying Pore Scrub
  • Reach Dentotape
  • Skin Republic Pink Clay Mud Sheet Mask
  • Skin Republic Seaweed Hydrogel Mask
  • St. Ives Fresh Skin Apricot Scrub
All items were purchased by me and the total prize value is approx $100. 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 see who won!

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Woo hoo! - random.org has chosen the beautiful Candice N. as the winner.  
    Congratulations gorgeous! 
    Candice, please respond to the email I've sent you by midnight
    Wednesday 26th June to claim your prize :-)
    Edit: Candice has claimed her prize 
    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Best of luck to all who enter!

    Take care of you,
    kats xxx

    Sunday, 21 January 2018

    SPOTLIGHT: December Empties+ Giveaway!...

    Most products I finished last month were terrific - a couple of meh ones, but overall I'm very happy with these choices, and the majority of them have earned a place in my regular stash. As usual, there's a giveaway at the end, so off we go...


    Body

    Dermaveen Soap-Free Wash (500ml, RRP $16.99)
    Reviewed HERE, this is SO good for solving winter dry skin woes ...
    Repurchase?
    Yes indeedy ...

    Dermaveen Shower & Bath Oil (500ml, RRP $16.99)
    Reviewed HERE, this is a can't-live-without! Two squirts of this will transform any body wash on your shelf into a hydrating wonder. LOVE it! ...
    Repurchase?
    You betcha ...

    Essano Rosehip Repairing Body Wash - Jasmine & Fig (445ml, RRP $9.99)
    Unlike the Frangipani & Paw Paw variety I covered in the November Empties article, I had no issues with this pump - I reckon the other one was just a bad egg on the production line so I won't hold it against Essano lol. My favourite scent of the two ...
    Repurchase?
    Absolutely ...

    Thankyou Milk Body Wash - Botanical Lemon Myrtle & Goat's Milk (500ml, RRP $8)
    If you enjoy lemon myrtle fragrance, then hot tail it to your local supermarket and grab this beauty - absolutely adore it! SO refreshing and SO hydrating, I haven't been this excited about a shower milk in a while. I really enjoyed their Geranium & Rosewood Body Wash (review HERE), but this one is totally my kind of thing all year round, but especially in the hot weather when I go for tangy crisp scents ...
    Repurchase?
    Forever ...


    Face

    Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Brightening Daily Scrub (140g, RRP $13.99)
    Full review HERE ...
    Repurchase?
    I have quite a few new ones on the shelf to try, and if none of them ring my bells, I'll be buying this one again ...

    Beauty by Nicholas Eye Alchemy (15ml, RRP $49.99)
    This was in the beautyheaven 10th Birthday swag bag - I won't give away too much here as I'll be doing a dedicated post on this product very soon, but let's just say it's my new HG eye cream ...
    Repurchase?
    I've already bought two more bottles, sigh ...

    botanicES Face Creme (50ml, RRP $45)
    Numerous raves about this cream (and the range in general) on my blog (main one HERE), it's the only face cream I buy over and over again. Perfection for the warmer months when my skin doesn't need an over-enriched moisturiser, but still needs to be hydrated and cared for ...
    Repurchase?
    Always ...

    Harvest Garden Pink Grapefruit & Passionflower Lip Balm (5gm, RRP $6)
    I'm crazy in love with their soaps, and this lip balm is just as wonderful. All natural ingredients - Sweet Almond Oil, Macadamia Nut Oil, Organic Shea Butter, Beeswax, Vitamin E and Essential Oils. It's softer and squishier than other brands, but that's what I love about it. Gonna try the Orange, Ginger & Turmeric one next ...
    Repurchase?
    Undoubtedly - promised myself I'd finish at least one more lip balm before I bought another, but this is top of my list ...

    Innoxa Hydrating Micellar Cleansing Water (300ml, RRP $16.95)
    Excellent performer, this cleanses thoroughly and has plenty of slip so the cotton pad never drags over the skin. Not so keen on the florally fragrance - it's pleasant enough, but I'd rather no fragrance at all, or something a wee bit more on the herbal side. Love that it's not tested on animals, safe for sensitive complexions, and the skinny tall bottle takes up little space on my bench ...
    Repurchase?
    Already have, but I probably shouldn't have as there's at least 5 more in the cupboard that I haven't even road tested yet - might be time to resurrect my Micellar Magic series! ...

    L'Occitane Immortelle Precious Cream (50ml, RRP $87)
    Magnificent cream that smells divine, and makes my skin feel so soft, supple and nourished. Some high priced skin care can be disappointing, but not this. I used to lust after La Mer and La Prairie, but after trying both of them, I found the formulations were too intense for my skin and I ended up with massively clogged pores, whereas the L'Occitane ranges are perfectly balanced for my combo face ...
    Repurchase?
    I'd love to but I doubt it - I reckon I can get similar results from something less expensive, but if I wanted to give myself a luxe treat, either this or the Immortelle Divine one would be it! ...

    Nutrimetics Restore Anti-Ageing Extreme Serum with Grape Stem Cell Technology (30ml, RRP $75)
    Bought this on special - I would have been a tad disappointed if I'd paid full price. It's a lovely serum, but no better than products with half the price tag. I'm a long-time Nutrimetics fan - all their stuff looks and smells divine, but the performance of this serum was a little average. It hydrated my skin beautifully, but I was hoping for a visible improvement either in firmness or wrinkle reduction. Mind you I've since used another of their serums that was fabulous, and that mini-review will be in my January empties post ...
    Repurchase?
    No...

    Yes to Grapefruit Daily Facial Scrub (113g, RRP $14.99)
    Reviewed HERE ...
    Repurchase?
    Yes, but not for a while as I have a stash to clear ...


    Face Masks

    Skin Republic Gold Hydrogel Mask (25g, RRP $12.99)
    I've waxed lyrical about this mask many many times ...
    Repurchase?
    Silly question ...




    Facial Fresh GreenTea Cloth Facial Treatment Mask (RRP $8.95)
    Not the most perfect fit, but a relaxing experience all the same. Calming & refreshing, these masks are only available in Australia from Bellabox. Couldn't smell any green tea, but who cares hey...
    Repurchase?
    Perhaps - the cloth mask market is expanding at a great rate of knots, already way too many choices lol...



    Skin Physics Advance Superlift 3D Deep Hydration Lifting Mask (box of 3, RRP $59)
    This is a wonderful formula, but the fit is very poor across forehead and nose, and while the neck flaps are a BRILLIANT innovation, they just flop around and don't stay stuck to the skin, so the design needs refinement. I do love how this makes my skin look and feel, but the annoyance at getting the darn thing to sit properly on my face counteracts the relaxation factor - boo!...
    Repurchase?
    These work out to be $20 each - for that price they need to be perfect, so no...



    Purederm Botanical Choice Ginkgo Eye Puffiness Minimizing Patches (2 pairs, RRP $3)
    Raved about these last month and I'm still raving - definitely one of my greatest finds last year, these are the go for reducing under-eye puffiness. I wear them to bed and they're still on the next morning! ...
    Repurchase?
    I have no less than 10 packs stashed away - YES! ...


    Hair

    Goldwell Kerasilk Color Shampoo (250ml, RRP $34.95)
    Picked this up for free from beautyheaven's beautorium  - it's just as brilliant at taming frizzies as the control one, just especially formulated for coloured hair ...
    Repurchase?
    Now that I'm not into bold bright hair colours, I'll stick with the Control version to maintain my Kerasilk treatment, but if I ever go red again, this would be a sure bet ...

    Giveaway!

    I've picked three faves from this month to giveaway to one of you lovelies ...


    • 3 packs of Purederm Botanical Choice Ginkgo Eye Puffiness Minimizing Patches (6 pairs)
    • 1 x Innoxa Hydrating Micellar Cleansing Water
    • 1 x 50ml botanicES Face Creme

    All products were purchased by me, the total value is approximately $70, and because of the liquid content, this giveaway is open to...
    Australian Residents Only

    Here's how to enter...
    1. Leave a blog post comment on this page that answers the question inside the Rafflecopter (please note: if you don't leave a comment, 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!


    Woo hoo! - random.org has chosen the beautiful Anna M. as the winner.  
    Congratulations gorgeous! 
    Anna please respond to the email I've sent you by
    Wednesday 31st January to claim your prize :-)
    Edit: Anna has claimed her prize 
    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Best of luck to all who enter!

    Take care of you,
    kats xxx

    Sunday, 22 October 2017

    SPOTLIGHT: October Empties & Giveaway!...

    Another mammoth Empties post, but there's a reward at the end if you make it that far ha ha  Again I did SO well, and the numbers were boosted by hair care and home fragrance items that somehow or other I often forget to include. But I'm getting myself into the habit of pausing for two seconds before I toss anything in the bin just for a mental check as to whether it's a candidate for this monthly series. There's also a soap wrapper in the pic below, and I'll hang onto these from now on - I can't take a picture of a used-up soap now can I lol? I'm introducing something new this time too - I've decided that every month I will give away one of the products that I finished and absolutely adored, and that way I can share the love with one of you treasures, so keep reading to the bottom of the post to find out what it is!...


    Body Products

    Dermaveen Shower & Bath Oil (500ml, RRP $17.99)
    Already raved about this wonder-product HERE ...
    Repurchase?
    Can't live without it ...

    Harvest Garden Lavender & Patchouli with Zeolite Clay Soap (130gm, RRP $7.50)
    I'm declaring these to be my favourite soap bars of all time! Wow, that's pretty impressive seeing as I've tried and loved quite a few, but none can really compare to this brand. They are SO creamy, so NON-DRYING (my go-to for shaving), and the fragrance lasts to the last sliver - for me that enduring scent quality is the thing that sets them apart from all the others. When I have one of these bars on my vanity or in my shower, I can smell it even before I pick it up, and this Lavender & Patchouli combo shares top spot on my love-list along with the +Rose Geranium one. Mind you I haven't tried the whole range yet, but I have at least eight of these bars scattered amongst my socks & undies drawers, and I even have a couple at the bottom of my dirty linen basket! By the time I get to use them, they've hardened a bit more and one cake will last a good 6 months. They use 100% natural ingredients, and they're riddled with essential oils ...
    Repurchase?
    Forever ...

    Jessica Mauboy Be Beautiful Luxe Shower Gel (100ml)
    This came in a gift set with the EDT fragrance (reviewed HERE). Love the scent but I found this formula to be a bit drying, and it needed several squirts of the Dermaveen Oil to make it usable for me this past cold weather season ...
    Repurchase?
    No - anyways it isn't available separately that I know of...

    Original Source Sweet Apple & Vanilla Shower Milk (250ml, RRP $4)
    Lovingly reviewed HERE ...
    Repurchase?
    Yes but not till next Autumn - for me this is a cool weather scented body wash ...

    Skin Doctors Younger Hands (75ml, RRP $34.95)
    Was disappointed with this hand cream - oh it's lovely, very hydrating and non-greasy, but I was kinda hoping that for the price I would see my hands looking "...10 years younger in 6 weeks" as advertised. Sadly it didn't happen, but then again my hands are pretty far gone. I've tried numerous products to lighten my age spots but they don't work, well at least not to the extent that I'm after...
    Repurchase?
    Nope - for now, I'll stick with a hand cream that keeps my paws super moisturised, and I don't need to spend $35 for that...


    Hair Care

    Kevin Murphy Shimmer.Shine (100ml, RRP $42.95)
    I've mentioned before my dilemma in trying to find a substitute for Reference of Sweden Shine Spray, and this is it. My hairdresser put me onto it and I'm thrilled. It's not the same delivery method but gives me a similar result - a non-aerosol spray that contains vitamins and essential oils, and teeny little particles of gold shimmery bits, the combination of which gives my hair a glisten and gleam without weighing it down, or any oily residue. There are two bonuses in that the bottle is clear so I can see how much is left, and it's cruelty-free ...
    Repurchase?
    Yes ma'am - I don't let the level go below half-way before I buy another ...

    muk. deep muk Ultra Soft Conditioner (300ml, RRP $24.95)
    Embarassed to say this has been at the back of my cupboard for four years since I won it in the beautyheaven Blogstar competition! The reason why it stayed so long in the dark is buried somewhere in my befuddled brain, but even after all this time it was 100% viable, and a true joy to experience the unbelievably soft tresses it gave me. Exquisitely refreshing fragrance, boy do I feel stupid ...
    Repurchase?
    Absolutely, but only if I stop using Kerasilk ...

    Reference of Sweden Repair Shampoo Sulfate Free REF.551 (750ml, RRP $58)
    This was and probably still is my #1 shampoo, but I've stopped using it as I've switched to the Goldwell Kerasilk range to maintain the benefits of my Keratin treatment, and to take advantage of the post-treatment guarantee which requires me to use their products. But if I ever stop having the Kerasilk anti-frizz thingy done, I would go back to this brand in a heartbeat. Absolutely RAVED about it HERE ...
    Repurchase?
    Without a doubt, but only for the reasons mentioned above ...

    Skincare

    Antipodes Hosanna H2O Intensive Skin-Plumping Serum (30ml, RRP $48.99)
    Waxed lyrical about this back in JUNE, and it's still holding the #1 face serum spot in my beauty book. Absolutely adore it ...
    Repurchase?
    That'll be a yes - I have five other serums to try, but once I get through a couple of them, it will hopefully be on special again ...

    Antipodes Worship Skin Defence Antioxidant Serum (10ml, RRP $?)
    Can't for the life of me remember how I came by this - mine was a 10ml (sample) bottle so I didn't buy it, but hey who cares! Loved it, absorbs in a flash, hydrates beautifully, but I didn't enjoy the experience as much as the Hosanna one as it has a different fragrance. All the same, I reckon this brand is acing the serum market...
    Repurchase?
    Probably not, my heart belongs to Hosanna...

    BotanicES Eye Crème  (15ml, RRP $40)
    This is one of my regulars - at my age it's not quite potent enough to get me through the Winter quarter when I need oodles more moisture, but this was left over from the end of Autumn, and I've started using it again now that the humidity is returning. Been loving the whole range for around 18 months now (review HERE) and can't imagine NOT having it on my bench. It lasts forever, and definitely firms the eye area ...
    Repurchase?
    Affirmative - never without this or the Face Crème ...

    Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water (combo to oily skin)  (400ml, RRP $14.95)
    Reviewed HERE, I prefer the pink one in this range...
    Repurchase?
    No - it's ok but a little drying for my mature age skin ...

    Indeed Labs Snoxin (30ml, RRP $39.95)
    The problem with being a blogger is that by being "involved" in the industry, there are so many tempting skincare products to try, and I personally find it hard to stick to any one brand - of course there are a few that are regulars in my kit, and there are others I intend to be regulars, but then I find something else that shows a tad more promise. This baby definitely has potential - I noticed some plumping of my skin overall, and the deep furrows between my brows seemed shallower. It only lasted me a month, so to be fair I'm adding it to my list to test over a longer period, like three months, just to see what it can do, and at $40 that's certainly doable. Felt fabulous as I applied it on my face, and there's no discernible fragrance. Unlike other serums it doesn't provide any surface hydration - it's more about the underlying structure, but there's a definite smoothing effect. Hmmmm, more later ...
    Repurchase?
    Yes - this is definitely worth some extended experimentation ...

    Sukin Hydrating Mist Toner (125ml, RRP $9.95)
    This little bottle of refreshment has just recently won it's second beautyheaven Best in Beauty award, and I can understand why. The formula is soothing, cooling, includes chamomile & rosewater, smells absolutely delicious, and with Summer fast approaching, it's the perfect pick-me-up after a long hot day. I've had this bottle for a few years, and it's lasted this long because I've kept it as a treat for stinking hot days - I spray it on after my nighttime skincare routine, and go to bed feeling fresh and becalmed. Overall I find Sukin products to be brilliant - they don't contain any yucky chemicals, nor do they test on animals ...
    Repurchase?
    You bet ...

    Face Masks

    Baroness Arbutin Mask Sheet (RRP $3.95)
    For some reason I didn't take a photo of this one, actually I think it was during the week so that would explain why. Like all Korean masks, it was a very pleasant experience, but nothing special. Supposed to lighten spots reduce fine lines and even out skin tone, and maybe it will if I use a few more...
    Repurchase?
    I'm definitely into products that will help fade my freckles, so maybe...

    Eaoron Instant Whitening Face Mask (Box of 5, RRP $29)
    Ok so I did four of these every Sunday for a month to see if my uneven skin tone would improve, and delighted to say it did. Slight fading of my freckles in that they're not so pronounced - I reckon if I'd continued on with another two months, I'd definitely see some major benefits. Trouble is there are so many others I want to try lol ...
    Repurchase?
    I still have some left, so I'd say in a few months' time, yes ...


    Jojoba Skin Refining & Brightening Face Mask  (3ml sample)
    This was free with a bottle of their oil - lovely mask, the colour of oatmeal, smells organic and earthy, and you only leave it on for max 10 minutes before rinsing. Nice enough but not sure I'd spend $50 on a full-sized tube - I think there are other brands that work just as well for a fraction of that price...
    Repurchase?
    I doubt it...

    Petitfee Black Pearl & Gold Hydrogel Eye Patch (60 pieces, RRP $13.17)
    My only real dud last month. Ordered from iHerb, this was a small jar containing 60 gold coloured plasticcy patches swimming in a sea of hydrating serum. Sounds pretty good right? So I tried them a few times and after removing the patches, I had NO eye bags and NO wrinkles under my eyes...whoa!!!!...for 30 seconds, and then they all came back. Sob. And then the next time I went to use them, the serum had all evaporated and the patches were just sticky - no idea what happened to the fluid as I made sure I screwed the lid back on securely. Anyways, they didn't cost much so I tossed them...
    Repurchase?
    Not a chance...

    Skin Republic Collagen Hydrogel Under Eye Patch (3 pairs, RRP $9.99)
    6 pairs again this month ...
    Repurchase?
    Another "forever" product ...

    Makeup

    Chi Chi Stay On Lip Liner - Lady in Red (RRP $9.95)
    The wind up kind and very long wearing, but also a bit drying on my parched pout - this shade is a fabulous to-die-for fire engine red ...
    Repurchase?
    Maybe - there are others out there that are more moisturising, but this red is something else ...

    Eye of Horus Goddess Pencil - Emerald Tabula (12g, RRP $30)
    My numero uno eye pencils, have reviewed them numerous times (in depth one HERE) ...
    Repurchase?
    You betcha - another one of my can't-live-withouts ...


    Home Fragrance

    Sohum Amber Noir Reed Diffuser (175ml, RRP $39.95)
    This was the closest thing I could find to the Urban Rituelle Romance one below - similar but with Patchouli & Rose instead of Musk. I didn't twig at the time of purchase, but there's a major design flaw - the bottle is tall so it topples over easily, and the neck is so narrow that the reeds all stick together, and therefore the scent doesn't permeate as well as it could...
    Repurchase?
    Naaaa, I'll look for another brand that understands how these things work...

    Urban Rituelle Reed Diffuser - Romance (190ml)
    Didn't put the price as this particular fragrance has been discontinued - can't for the life of me figure out why, it was divine. Amber & Musk, two scents so dear to my heart. Boo hoo! ...
    Repurchase?
    Can't...sigh......


    Holey guacemoley I'm exhausted, that's it for the Empties!!!!!

    And if you made it this far you deserve something, so now for the Giveaway! I've chosen the Harvest Garden soaps (plus lip balms) as my top pick for last month, and added a little Lovisa Swarovski jewellery set as a sweetener...


    The 5 x Harvest Garden soaps are...
    • Activated Charcoal
    • Rosemary & Tea Tree with Comfrey
    • Rose Geranium, Patchouli & Lavender with Australian Red Clay (personal fave)
    • Rose Geranium with Australian Pink Clay
    • Lemongrass, Olive Leaf Extract & Ground Flaxweed with Turmeric
    The 4 x Harvest Garden 100% natural soothing lip balms are in the following flavours...
    • Orange, Ginger & Turmeric
    • Tinted Rose & Pomegranate
    • Pink Grapefruit & Passionflower (personal fave)
    • Peppermint & Matcha
    The Lovisa Star jewellery set is made with Swarovski crystals, and consists of...
    • 3 x rings - 1 star design, and 2 with a single crystal, size M-L
    • 1 x Star Necklace, 45cm chain
    • Pair of Star Stud Earrings
    And here's a closeup of the jewellery, so pretty and sparkly...


    Total prize value is approx. A$130, all items were purchased by me, and because the soaps are heavy, this giveaway is open to
    Australian Residents Only!

    Here's how to enter...
    1. Leave a blog post comment on this page as to why you'd like to win all these goodies (please note: if you don't leave a comment, 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

    Woo hoo! - random.org has chosen the beautiful Claire F. as the winner.  
    Congratulations gorgeous! 
    Claire please respond to the email I've sent you by 
    Wednesday 1st November to claim your prize :-)
    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Best of luck to all who enter!

    Take care of you,
    kats xxx