Empties - September 2014

I can't believe I am even saying (typing) this but October is upon us! This year is just flying by and I have realised recently that it's been quite a while since I've done an end-of-the-month empties post. So with that in mind I thought I might share with you what I used up in the month of September!

I've divided my thoughts of these empties into the categories Skin Care, Makeup & Beauty Products and Samples. I've included samples in this post as I have been travelling a lot so going through heaps of sample products on the run!

Skin Care:

Clinique – Dramatically Different Moisturising Gel – 125ml

I've been using this dramatically different gel as part of Clinique’s 3 step skin care system for some time now. I use skin type 3 oily / combination and got this 125ml bottle as part of a promotion at Christmas last year! I'm really impressed with the gel and the whole system! You only need a small amount of this product to get a fantastically hydrating effect and it has lasted me such a long time - I have only just had to buy a new gel and cleanser.

Garnier – Pure Active Daily Pore Scrub Wash – 150ml

I've had this scrub for a while now and favour using it when travelling or between uses of my LUSH scrub (mentioned below) in an effort to make the LUSH last! I find the Garnier Daily Pore Scrub really great for infrequent use (maybe twice a week) to give the pores a good clean. I am careful to not overuse the product however as it has a strong astringent feeling that can feel damaging to the skin. Also the strong menthol and eucalyptus smell can be a little overpowering!

LUSH – Let The Good Times Roll Facial Cleanser – 100gms

This is hands down my fave new product from LUSH! The Let The Good Times Roll facial cleanser / scrub has changed my entire skin care routine and improved my skin dramatically. Not only that but this eco friendly, conscience clear beauty product smells utterly divine with scents that remind me of caramel and honeycomb! You don’t need to use a lot of this scrub for it to be effective and as I've been using it sparingly it has lasted quite some time. This product is mild enough to use as a daily cleanser when watered down or as a scrub when used in a chunkier consistency.

LUSH – Rose Jam – Shower Gel – 100gms

I was given this amazing shower gel as a Christmas gift last year and I am proud to say that I have only just finished it up! This took a lot of restraint because of how much I adore this rose packed product however, thanks to LUSH's Christmas In July event this year, I was able to buy a much bigger bottle which I am happy I can now start using. I'm certain that I've shared my love of this LUSH product with you before, but in case I haven't, this gel is packed with rose oil, argan oil and goji berry juice which creates an uplifting yet luxurious scent and heaven for the skin!

Makeup & Beauty Products:

Revlon – Colorstay Liquid Foundation – Oily / Combination Skin in Medium Beige

I have been favouring this foundation lately which gives great coverage, has a good matte finish and works well with most of my other products. I was happy to find the medium beige shade to be a really good match to my skin tone and will definitely be buying a new bottle of this in the future. The price tag, however, doesn’t impress me all that much so I will be waiting until it is on sale again! 

Rimmel – Stay Matte Liquid Foundation – Ivory

I bought this foundation in two shades, ivory and classic beige. This matte liquid / mousse range didn't have a standard colour that worked perfectly for me so I bought these two with plans to mix them together to try and achieve something suitable for my skin tone. I found in the cooler months, when applied with a beauty blender this formula was fantastic! It was a little temperamental and took a lot of effort to achieve perfection however, so after running out of the lighter shade (pictured) and having almost run out of the darker shade, I will be moving on to a new liquid foundation.

NYX Cosmetics – Za Za Zu Fibre Mascara

I'm usually not a fan of fibre mascaras because I find them unbearably fussy to work with. I reluctantly tried this one however because I thought being NYX "its gotta be good"! Unfortunately I was proven wrong and Za Za Zu proved to be an underwhelming product. I found it irritating to use this mascara and am disappointed to say that although I tried to utilise it a few times, I still couldn’t make it work for me.

Australis – Matte Out Mattifying Face Base

I was hoping this would be a great product to help even out my skins texture and enhance the matte effect of my primer. When I started using this 'Face Base' I was hoping to be left with a nice matte base to work on but it was a bit of a disappointment to be honest. This stick primer seemed to add more oiliness to my skin even when I left it untouched for a considerable amount of time hoping it would settle. I love Australis for colours and powders but have so far been disappointed by their face products.

Samples:

Clinique – High Impact Mascara – Sample

I LOVE THIS MASCARA – I'm not gonna say a lot about it just yet but I have big plans to purchase a full sized tube of this product and write an energetic review soon!

Clinique – Take The Day Off – Makeup Remover – Sample

I was grateful to have this sample sized makeup remover with me on my trip to Sydney recently as it's a nifty little size for travel. I used it all up quite quickly but was sadly, not a fan of this remover in the end. I found it wasn't very good at removing mascaras (even the more high end mascaras) and it left a greasy residue on my skin after use which felt intense and unappealing.  

LUSH – Ro’s Argan Body Conditioner – Sample 

I only just found this sample in my bathroom cupboard so thought I'd better use it in case it was close to expiry (I picked it up in March)! I love this scent from Lush and have since bought a full sized bottle of this body product to enjoy! If you're interested in further details about this sample and the other LUSH products I got when I was in Sydney, you can read about them here.

MAC – Moisture Infusion Gel - Sample 

A recent shopping spree at my local MAC counter landed this little sample in my 'to try tray' and my skin simply drank it up. I am heavily considering picking up a full sized gel on my next visit as I found the effects to be simply lovely and luxurious!

Thank you so much for reading! I hope you enjoyed this months Empties Post and look forward to hearing your thoughts. Let me know what you think of this post and any of these products in the comments below! I really hope I can get organised to do more of these posts and would love to hear about some products you finished up this month! 

LLx

Beauty Subscription Box : Bella Box September 2013

I recently set myself a little blog mission to try out x3 different Beauty Subscription Boxes available in Australia, I subscribed to VioletBox, Lust Have it! & BellaBox.

I wanted to discover what all the fuss was about, try some new products and have some fun blog-post material to get me started.

I have had dramas and excitement galore through the whole process and promised myself that at the end of my challenge I could keep a subscription to one and only one! lol 

To me BellaBox has been the most impressive by far, customer service, communication, postage and contents of the 2 boxes I have received so I am happily decided that I will keep subscribing!

my CLEO magazine I received

This month Bella Box teamed up with CLEO magazine and the box that I received was overflowing with products! I was so excited when it arrived on my doorstep! check out what I got in my September BellaBox!

The theme this month : Spring Party Essentials!

Epic September BellaBox

CLEO Magazine - This months box contained the latest issue of CLEO (October 2013 issue) a fab bonus! 

Foot Care - Gell Ball of Foot Cushions : 
These will be very interesting to try out maybe for the races?

Garnier - Ambre Solaire Light Natural Bronzer Self Tanning Spray : 
I'm not really a Tan girl, real or fake but I can appreciate how this product fits in with the theme and I love Garnier so I may just give this a try!

Montagne Jeunesse - Dead Sea Mud Pac - Trial Size Kelp & Seaweed : 
I LOVE these face masks - can not wait to try this! - this is one of the only brands I have trialed that does not leave my skin dry and flaky.

Elegant Touch Envy Wraps - Tie Dye : 
Lovely addition to my Nail wrap / Nail Sticker Collection. I mostly keep them for statement nails so these colors will work great!

ASAP Pure mineral Lip Pencil : 
I love the soft pink / coral color I received and it matches most of my lippies!

Manicare - Glam Eyes - Kelly Lashes : 
I cant wait to try these out and I already have an occasion in mind! ;) 

Foot cushions, ASAP Lip Pencil & Garnier Natural Bronzer

Shick Razor, Montagne Jeunesse face mask, Envy Wraps, Glam Eyes False Lashes

I loved the theme of this months box, I love how Bella Box has chosen products that all fit in with the idea of having all you need to party this spring!

Do you subscribe to BellaBox Aus ? 

What did you think of this months box ? 

What other sample boxes do you subscribe to ? 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this post, please feel free to leave any comments or questions below.

LLx

(Opinions are my own and provided for consideration only / pictures were taken by me.) 

 Thank you Bella Box!

Beauty Subscription Box : Lust Have It! August 2013

I (Finally) received my first ever Lust Have it! box This week.

This is the August box and I received it on the 1st of October needless to say I was not very happy at all with this, but there was some dramas which were partly my own fault so I am excited to enjoy the goodies included in the box and move on.

I wanted to try a few different sample boxes for the experience and I must say it has definitely been an interesting one!

I received 8 items in The August Lust Have It! box.

x6 Sample Size products & x2 wonderful full sized products.

Revlon NearlyNaked Makeup
Liquid Foundation (Sample Pack)
RRP : $25.95 30ml

'So Light, it melts right in, working in harmony with your skins unique tone and texture for an even, fresh, flawless finish.'

In my opinion, this sample sheet is a great way to help people try a new product as important as foundation! GO REVLON! I liked having the opportunity to try different shades at home rather than swatching at my local target! :) 

Revlon Goodies

Revlon PhotoReady Skinlights Face Illuminator (Full Size)

RRP : $29.95 30ml

'Revlon PhotoReady Skinlights face illuminator is a lightweight liquid illuminator that works to instantly brighten skin. Designed to enhance skins natural radiance, it boosts natural luminosity, minimizes flaws, enhances with a hint of sheer color and protects the skin from harsh environments.'

I remember having these when I was about 16, did they disappear and are now making a comeback? I'm not sure, either way I am so happy to have one of these in my makeup collection once again and just in time for Spring / Summer!

LA ROCHE POSAY LIPIKAR Balm AP (Sample Size) 
RRP : $37.95 400ml 

'La Roche Posay LIPIKAR Balm is a liquid-replenishing body balm that offers a 24 hour anti-scratching efficacy. Its quick-dress texture is adapted for babies & children.' 

I have heard a lot of good things about this brand and I am excited to try this, also both my girls have very sensitive skin so I will be reaching for this if any more 'mystery rashes' threaten their beautiful skin!


PAULA'S CHOICE RESIST  Super Antioxidant Concentrate Serum 
RRP : $40.50 30ml 

'Made with stabilized Vitamin C plus potent antioxidants in a silky base join ingredients, it repairs damaged cells and rebuilds skins protective barrier so it functions optimally.' 

La Roche-Posay, Paula's Choice & KMS California

KMS California Free Shape Shampoo & Conditioner 
RRP : Shampoo 300ml $28.95 / Conditioner 300ml 28.95 

'Create unlimited style transformations with hot tools. Styles last until the next wash. the FREE SHAPE shampoo and conditioner increases manageability and pliability for preparation for heat styling' 

KMS California Free Shape Add Volume Volumizing spray 
RRP : $31.95 200ml 

'KMS California ADD VOLUME volumizing spray increases volume and provides intense fullness. Ideal for super fine hair' 

I have never been a big fan of this brand and I was a little disappointed that I didn't receive the heat styling product. ( I am mostly a straight hair girl!) 
I will definitely give these both a go, might keep them on hand for travel size goodies! :) 

SINFULCOLORS Nail Enamel (Full Size) 
RRP: $4.95 15ml

'Sinful Colors nail enamel has a long wearing, chip-resistant, professional formula and is available in 69 runway inspired shades.'

Long time admirer of this brand and I have surprised myself by not absolutely going to town buying every one of these beautiful shades! ( I actually own none!) Maybe now I have a chance to test it out,my mind and wallet will be opened? The shade I received is beautiful - very similar to my all time fave OPI shade Big Apple Red - What do you think?

Sinful Colors in shade GOGO GIRL

LUSH Moisturizer - LUSH Gorgeous Cream 

RRP : $74.95 45g 

'A protective, vitamin filled, softening moisturizer formulated with the best ingredients for this light, bright cream.' 

LUSH! Thank you for providing a sample of this 'gorgeous' product! lol I always love having a good look and a good sniff in Lush stores and have been treated and treated myself to a few products in the past but its nice to get a sample of something I would otherwise never be able to afford to try! lol 

 LUSH - Gorgeous Cream Sample

Do you Subscribe to Lust Have It! ? 

What did you think of the August box? 

Which other sample boxes do you subscribe to? 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this post, Please feel free to leave any comments or questions below. LLx 

(Quotations copied from description of products card included in my LustHaveIt! box for information only / opinions are my own and provided for consideration only / pictures were taken by me.)

 Thank you Lust Have It!

Beauty Subscription Box : Violet Box August 2013

This month I received my 1st ever - Violet Box ! 

I had some dramas with postage but thanks to the lovely and helpful staff I can finally post this, better late then never!

For those who don't know and are interested Violet Box is a monthly subscription sample box available in Australia. you can sign up online using the link below : 

http://www.violetbox.com.au/

I received x3 full sized items and x2 Sample sized items. 

Jelly Pong Pong 2-in-1 Shadow / Liner.
Full size RRP : $19.00
Color : Bronze

'A uniquely formulated crayon that doubles as an eyeliner for thick, precise lines as well as a perfectly blended eye shadow. the exclusive combination of Italian-formulated waxes and pigments allows you to build up the color, smudge or create bold lines quickly and easily. '


Jelly Pong Pong Lip Blush.
Full size RRP : $22.00
Color : Cranberry 

'A Moisturizing lip stain that tints your lips with just the right amount of juicy colour and hydrates like a balm.'

I love the hype surrounding the Jelly Pong Pong items included in this months box! This is a brand I have never heard of before but I was so excited to try!

My current go to makeup look is a brown eye shadow with creme colored brow highlight and a red stained lip so i can do simple touch ups on the go, both of these products have slipped nicely into my daily makeup in a hurry routine, I got the perfect colors! both the lip and the eye shadow pencil makes it easy to be quick, precise and blend beautifully.

Jelly Pong Pong - Lip Blush & 2-in-1 Shadow / Liner

Dr Bragi Age Managment Moisturiser 
Sample Size : 5ml 
Full Size : 60ml $179.00

'NOW with increased enzymes and hydraulic acid. Dr Bragi's patented formula combines his unique, 'super active' marine enzymes and with the added hydrating and plumping abilities of hydraulic acid. this is a versatile facial moisturizer helps to reduce the signs of aging by fighting the effects of environmental stress.' 

I was excited when I saw this given the high end branding (& price tag!) I have been using it each night after cleansing. It is a gel like formula which has a lovely smooth cooling feel that I love! 

Goldwell Dualsenses Rich Repair Cream shampoo, Goldwell Dualsenses Rich Repair Anti-Breakage Conditioner.
Sample Size : 10ml 
Ful size : RRP $24.95 each 

'Repair your hair from the inside out with the dualsenses 'Rich Repair' range. using the most advanced technologies and customized ingredients to combat dry, stressed hair forever, even a single application can deliver softer healthier-looking hair.' 

I am always on the look out for new shampoo options, and this sample excited me, especially when I read the words - Rich Repair! saving these little samples for my trip to Sydney for IMATS (Only 8 days away!) 
will let you know how they go! 

Dr Bragi & Goldwell Samples

GHD Style Heat Protect Spray 
Full Size : 120ml RRP: $24.00 

'Provides an invisible barrier against everyday heat damage on damp or dry hair. Containing the unique GHD Heat Protection System, this spray can be layered with other styling products to create the result you desire. Best for protecting against the heat of hairdryers, stylers, and tongs while leaving hair with a 'no product' feel.'

I have long admired the GHD range of hair care & styling products, I purchased my first ever GHD hair straightener last year and I am hooked! I love this product, I have used it a few times since receiving it and each time it delivers! I already have quite dry hair so now when I straighten it my hair feels lovely, healthy and smooth! 

Do you subscribe to Violet Box Aus ? 

What did you think of this months box ? 

What other sample boxes do you subscribe to ? 

I would love to hear your thoughts on this post, please feel free to leave any comments or questions below.

LLx

(Quotations copied from description of products card included in my Violet Box for information only / opinions are my own and provided for consideration only / pictures were taken by me.) 

Thank you Violet Box!

IMATS 2013 TAG

Hi Lovelies, as you may already know (from my many many tweets!) I will be attending IMATS in Sydney in September this year. I found this awesome tag and thought I would fill it out in an effort to express some of my excitement! (now even more excited!) 
I would love to see your answers to these questions and hear all about your plans for whichever city you are attending IMATS in, please feel free to comment below. 

LLx

http://www.imats.net/index.php

1.Which IMATS are you attending?

I will be attending IMATS Sydney 2013

2. Have you ever been to IMATS before?

No, this will be My first time, VERY EXCITED!

3. How are you getting there?

As I am a Gold Coast gal, I will be flying to Sydney and relying on public transport to get me around!

4. Are you bringing anyone along?
I am going to IMATS with my best friend.

5. Is there anything else in the IMATS host city that you want to see?
EVERYTHING! This will be my first visit to Sydney, I have a lot planned and a lot to fit in.

6. What days will you be in the city that IMATS is in?
I arrive on Thursday the 19^th of September and leave Monday the 23^rd. 

7. Who do you want to meet?
Anyone and everyone, I am so excited to chat to people with the shared interests of beauty & makeup!

8. What companies exhibits are you most excited to see?
I am looking forward to checking out MACpro, Royal & Langnickel, Inglot, Lime Crime, Rae Morris, Model Rock Lashes and many more!

9. What products are you looking for?
I have a super long shopping list for the day but if I walk away with some new Royal & Langnickel brushes, some Inglot shadows and some mac shadows I will be more than happy!

10. How much do you plan to spend?
I’m not sure yet!

11. What do you want to get out of IMATS?

I hope to explore a new city, have the privilege to hear Rae Morris speak on the Saturday, learn some new things, buy some new products and meet some new people.