Her Beauty Days

Today marks the first day of July and what better way to kick-start a new month than with a previous month "empties" blog post?!

I'll be showcasing to you today, the products I have used and finished off in June!

This is my first empties post, and let me tell you, it does feel a bit odd collecting all the empty bottles and packets, when my natural instinct is to dispose of them.

Last month, I did use quite a fair amount of products, but I haven't managed to finished them. It actually takes me quite a while to finish products; I use my products sparingly... Just enough to do its job!

Well, let me present to you the final contestants of June Empties 2013 (before they meet their fate...nestled nicely in my bin!).


TRESemmé Moisture Rich Conditioner (900 mL)
A great affordable Australian made conditioner that leaves my hair soft and nourished. Considering the size, it lasts quite a long time. I love the fragrance in it too! Will definitely repurchase.

Redwin Vitamin E with Evening Primrose Oil Hand Cream
Your average hand cream which works fine for me. Moisturises and softens my hands but after a while, I find myself reapplying this on (may be due to a variety of factors). It's fast absorbing and non greasy on the hands. The formula is just right - not too thick or watery. Great price tag and Australian made - I might repurchase if I'm in need of new hand cream.

Derma Intensive+ 3 in 1 Fragrance Free Facial Wipes
I got this at Coles for under $2. Doesn't irritate/sting my face unlike those Swisspers Green Tea Wipes I just bought but the wipes aren't as soft. Made in Turkey and gets the job done. I use these when I'm really lazy to wash my face or when I want to freshen up. Will repurchase due to its affordability.


Rimmel (London) Lasting Finish 1000 Kisses Lip Tint (700 Nothing But Nude)
This is one of those "texta" pens that you use to colour your lips with. It also comes with a colourless balm on the end but it broke off after a few applications. On being those lip products with a marker/texta, it is very drying on the lips. The balm wasn't of assistance; it was hard and didn't moisturise the lips.
The colour doesn't last long and after a few applications the colour stops coming out and you have to rub the pen's tip on a surface to induce colour to come through. Unfortunately, I find this product to be on par with those crappy "made in China" whiteboard markers.
On a positive note, I really love the shade - it compliments my skin tone quite well! It is definitely not a nude colour, albeit the shade name states so. I won't be repurchasing this but I would love to find a lip product with a similar shade to this!

NB: Product made in Germany.



Barry M Intense Black Eyeliner Pen
It claims to be a "waterproof, smudgeproof, super long wear eyeliner in a retractable pen". Sometimes I do feel this product is waterproof and smudgeproof, but I did participate in some intense swimming once and re-emerged out of the water with panda eyes! Nevertheless, I do use this product on a daily basis and will forever repurchase (from ASOS). This glides on smoothly plus, pigmentation is great and I love how it's a twist up!

Neutrogena Norwegian Formula Hand Cream
I have never encountered a hand cream like this one before. I received this sample tube amongst other samples through Neutrogena's promotion on Facebook. The texture is thick and  balm-like - reminds me of Vaseline. Upon application, my hands feel a bit greasy - it doesn't sink into the skin as well as more watery hand creams. But, you only need a small amount to moisturise the hands - it will last you quite a while! Great for extremely dry hands - in Winter, after washing your hands etc. I also think this is great for the undersides of your foot! Who says hand creams are restricted only for hands?! I will probably purchase this only for usage in Winter.

Colgate Plax Fresh Tea Mouthwash
I received a lot of these cute bottles at the Good Food and Wine Show a few days ago. Each sample was 20 mL (one usage per bottle) which is a great size if you want to pop one into your handbag for a mouthwash quickie during the day (I doubt anyone does that?).
I'm a fan of the bright green coloured solution and the taste of what seems like sweetened jasmine tea. Having been raised in a traditional Asian family has made me appreciate a multitude of teas, so you can deduce that I really adore this mouthwash! This mouthwash is alcohol free so it's perfect for those who are interested/love using mouthwashes but want to avoid that nasty sting! I will definitely go out and purchase a large bottle of this!

Botáni Boost Balancing Moisturiser
I received this 3 mL sample from Priceline last year and I absolutely love it!
It's an Australian made and owned product, which is eco and vegan friendly. Packed with natural goodness (plant extracts) this has got to be one of the best facial moisturisers I've used. It sinks into my skin quite easily and does not clog my pores. Do expect that BOOST of hydration upon application! I highly recommend if you have combination or blemish prone skin, check this out!

Clearasil Daily Clear Vitamins & Extracts Daily Wash
Growing up using Clearasil for my pimple infested face, I was reminded of the oh-so-familiar scent when I first used this sample. This beautiful pastel green coloured cleanser cleansed my skin well and didn't leave it feeling "tight" or dry. I like how there are avocado and pomegranate extracts within this - appealing to me as I love using products with natural components. This cleanser can double up as a mask or cleanser. Overall, a great everyday wash for your face! I will definitely keep this in mind when I plan to buy my next cleanser in future.

And there you have it. This month's (this year's) empties!

I hope you enjoyed the post and feel free to link your empties for June 2013. I'd love to have a read of what you currently used up!

I don't know if you've seen the recent blog posts on the free skincare goodie bags at Priceline when you spend over $60 on selected skincare brands, but, I had to make a post on my views and the haul I did to get the bag!














So initially, I was going to pass up on this tempting deal, since I have a plethora of moisturisers and cleansers filling up every nook and cranny (seriously!) But then I realised I was out of facial wipes; what a great excuse to spend $60+ on skincare! Facial wipes are such a convenience when I'm too lazy to properly remove my makeup and cleanse my face.

So off I went to my nearest Priceline and got myself a few skincare goodies to trial around with. My total ended up being around $62. Not bad, I say!

The "haulage":


(From left to right)

1. Swisspers Green Tea Calming Facial Cleansing Wipes (25 wipes)

- Got these because I'm a sucker for anything associated with green tea! These claim to remove "make-up & waterproof mascara". Upon first application, it stung my face. However, I still use these because I haven't broken out yet. The stinging isn't as "painful" as the first application, but my face has that "tingling" feeling. I think this is too concentrated for my preference. It claims to have green tea, aloe extracts and vitamin E. I know I should stop using it, since the pain reaction is a bad sign but I really want to finish this off (luckily my face is still "intact" lol). These are quite good at removing my face makeup, but not so much eye makeup. I really love how soft and durable the facial towels are...But unfortunately, I won't be purchasing these in future. Oh, another thing, I did look up the reviews for this product online before  making the purchase, and so far I haven't come across anyone experiencing the stinging. How strange!

2. Swisspers Spa Facial Cleansing Wipes with Pomegranate Extract (25 wipes)

- Got sucked into buying this because of the pink packaging. Also these are "coloured wipes", which really intrigued me! The product claims to be rich in antioxidants which is a bonus! It "cleanses, tones and moisturises without drying". I haven't tried these yet, but I'm hoping it won't sting my face. It's funny because I used to buy those $1 facial wipes from Coles/Woolworths and they worked fine (though the softness and quality of the towels can be improved).

3. 2x Nivea Pure & Natural Facial Cleansing Wipes (25 wipes)

- These are a little pricer than the Swisspers brands, but unlike the Swisspers brand (which are made in China), these are made in the Netherlands. I got attracted to claims on the packaging:
They're free from parabens, silicones, colourants, mineral oils and alcohol. The ingredients used in these; 95% of them are from natural origin (great!), they're biodegradable, they contrain bio argan oil and aloe vera. Last and not least they claim to do everything plus they are suitable for sensitive eyes/skin! I haven't tried these yet but I got 2 packets on a whim for the sister and I.

4. Palmer's  Cocoa Butter Formula Cocoa Body Scrub (200 g)

- Also needed a body scrub, 'cause it's Winter and I wanted to give my skin a treat.
I tried this out yesterday in the shower and my, it was such a luxurious experience! For those who love chocolate, I'm sure you'll agree with me that this product smells divine! Think cocoa guys! I really love that this product is saturated with crushed Cocoa beans! However, I have to say, this feels really buttery (from the shea butter) and moisturising but it's not that great at exfoliating. I prefer a stronger exfoliant. I will repurchase this in future though! Great skincare product for Winter in my book! 



5. Yes To Carrots C the Body Carrot Rich Moisturizing Body Scrub (200 mL)

(Blended with Carrot Seed Oil, Carrot Juice, Pumpkin, Sweet Potato and Dead Sea Mud. Paraben Free). Wow, sounds like a scrumptious lunch for the skin! I couldn't resist such a scrub. I'm excited to try a variety of products to find what works best for me! (This product is not tested on animals).

6. Avène Thermal Spring Water (300 mL)

- I needed a product to make my total at least $60 to get the goodie bag.
This was on sale for $19.99 (a bit crazy) but you can get it cheaper at the Chemist Warehouse when they have a sale! See my review on this product here.

And now, the moment we've been waiting for...



That's all the products in the goodie bag!

The products were enclosed in a shiny, black, sturdy Models Prefer tote (with a pink lining inside). Great usable bag for my mum so she can carry the groceries more efficiently!

Most are full sized items! Items in the bags can vary in shades and product types.
I'll be sharing these around with family and friends.

So, did you get one of these generous goodie bags? What products did you get to get the offer? I'd love to hear what you got!
If you haven't done so, and you're interested, you can still get them online or instore!

So I recently subscribed to Lust Have It! (an Australian beauty box subscription), after eyeing a few reviews on my favourite beauty blogs.

The whole concept of a beauty box subscription, really excites me! You don't know exactly what day your box will turn up at your front door (you can predict the day) and you don't know what's gems are hidden behind all that cardboard packaging. I love surprises!

Here's my first impression and thoughts on this month's box. I was really impressed with the box that encompassed the products. This month's colour is a beautiful dusty pinkish nude with a floral pattern. There is also a magnetic closure flap to seal the box. Perfect storage for the little things! It stands upright as well - I can easily pop this on my shelf with all my books. You can never have too many boxes!

Let's check out the box shall we?

Upon opening...


I have recently viewed a blogger's review on this month's box; I was hoping I'll get a different box though. Looks like I got a similar one! I was initially a bit disappointed by the products, but after playing around with them, I've started to appreciate them!

Here's the card that came in with the goodies:


This month's theme is associated with the 'Great Gatsby'. I don't find that the products I received really complimented the theme that much.


The goodies I got:


1. Rachel K - Mineral Colour Control CC Cream
Just 4 sample sachets. I've seen swatches of these and they look like they suit those with yellow skin tones. Similar to a BB cream, just with colour control (hence CC cream). The fact that these are made in Korea, convinces me that they're going to be decent products. I've read a lot of positive reviews on Korean BB creams!


2. Batiste - Dry Shampoo Cherry
I have a few Batiste dry shampoos lying around; I usually get these free from beauty events. But I'm fine with this one. It has a nice cherry scent that's not too overpowering. My old shampoo cans are running out so this one will be the perfect substitute! But keep in mind though, I don't use dry shampoos too often.



3. Pure Fiji - Hydrating Body Lotion (Ocean Mist)
I was disappointed by the size of the this sample. Would really appreciate a bigger sized sample!
Upon reading the "info card" provided, I was expecting a fresh oceanic scent from the lotion...however the contrasting smell of the lotion was quite pleasant! The lotion is enveloped in a beautiful veil of vanilla and coconut! I will definitely use this! I'll be popping this into my handbag later when my other lotion samples run out.
NB: product made in Fiji.

Positioned next to the Pure Fiji Hydrating Body Lotion...

4. Savi Organic Soothing Cream
This is a small sample in a really cute bottle! It claims to have all these skin care properties and has a very natural herbal smell. This will be perfect for those nasty flare ups. It's also Australian Certified Organic! Anything promoted to be "organic" gets my tick of approval!

5. Real Purity - Natural Lipstick (in Romantic Red)
This appears to be a reddish pink lipstick sample in one of those plastic containers you'd expect children's watercolour paints to be enclosed in. Similarly the brush, resembles those brushes found in those cheap paint kits - what I used in my early childhood days to play with! This "lip brush" is from Crown Brush. The company (on the card provided) is exhibited to be "the leading industry resource for cosmetic and skincare brushes". Albeit, the bristles on the brush is really soft, I find this brush to be useless with the application of the lipstick sample. The lipstick sample looks quite nice on my lips. I just  apply it with my fingers and I'm done! Great buildable colour for more intense - richly saturated lips. This lipstick claims to make your lips appear fuller and more plump and yes, I do believe my lips looked a bit plump! But this could be attributed to a variety of different factors unrelated to the the formula of the lipstick. A great idea is to pop this into your bag in the case of an "emergency"! Great to use for a pop colour on your lips and for a healthy flush on your cheeks!


6. Klara - H2O Proof Eyeliner
Just your average black eyeliner pencil that claims to be waterproof with long lasting vibrant colour. There's a sponge tip at the end for smudging purposes. It was difficult to produce solid lines, plus, the colour wasn't intensely black, like how I would like it to be. I don't think I'll be using this, so I'll hand this over to my sis who's a fan of pencil liners. Also, in regards to the price tag, I don't think this product is worth $18.

Last but not least,


7. OPI - Pure Lacquer Nail Apps
To be honest, I've never tried these nail apps before, so I was quite excited upon receiving this. I love the brand OPI. Personally, they are the best when it comes to the longevity and application performance of nail polishes. And talk about the multitude of colours and textures they have!
I don't mind the cocktail pattern against the silver base; this is the only product that I think compliments the "Great Gatsby" theme well, but I don't find this appropriate for an everyday look (for me, personally). On a brighter note, my sister will be ecstatic to receive this!
I can't believe these retail for for $19.99.

With this month's box, I'm not that thrilled with the contents. I received 2 full sized items and 5 samples.
However, I am appreciative of the products received. I can find a good use for them all (worst case scenario would be receiving tanning lotion!).

If you're interested in subscribing to Lust Have It!, check out the link.
The cost for the subscription service is $19.95 for each month but you can get $5 off your first box with my exclusive code, "Herdays".

I'll be subscribing to Bellabox next, so I'll share my experience with you on that box soon.
This box retails for $15 for each month.
Both boxes don't charge extra for shipping, so that's a bonus!

Hope you're enjoying the lovely weekend!
I'm back with a review on one of my favourite products, Avène's 'Thermal Spring Water'.


So initially, after reading a few reviews on the blogosphere, I was a bit skeptical by the claims exhibited by this "can of water". For spring water in a can, it's a bit pricey...But after reading this post, you'll soon know why I love it so much.

I was first drawn to this product after experiencing some redness to my whole face. It was a cold day and my face, triggered by some unknown factor, became all red and hot. It took me a few hours to subdue the redness. I went home, hopped onto Google and my first hit led me to this product.
After snagging this product at a sale at the Chemist Warehouse, I began using it where applicable.

I mainly use this product, after a nice hot shower, to calm the skin and not dehydrate it (after using harsh chemicals to cleanse my face plus it's WINTER), after I remove my makeup, when my face feels heated up, when I need a "perk-me-up", after the gym,  or when I just want to feel that pleasurable feeling on my face upon application! (I'm actually getting addicted to using this!)

So basically, the Thermal Spring Water can is spring water, bottled in a sterile unit - sourced from the Avène Thermal Spring (in France). A bit of a fun fact (found on the can): the site was declared to be of "Public Interest in Dermatology" since 1874!

The product claims to have health and beauty benefits; it's suitable for all degrees of sensitivity, offers instant relief, gentle for use on face and body and soothes and calms sensitive skin! (Source: Avene Website).


How to use: Spray on your face (I prefer 30 cm distance) and wait, then pat dry.
(Do not shake!)

Pros:
- feels great on my face - refreshing and perks me up!
- soothes and calms my skin
- suitable for all skin types including sensitive
- lovely thin mist upon spraying
- available in 3 sizes (50 mL, 150 mL, 300 mL) so you can choose what suits you best for your situation! ( I chose the 300 mL (bit big) - more value for money)
- suitable for a range of applications and purposes 
- can be used to set makeup
- can be used to complete makeup removal
- can be used for after hair removal care, or treat razor burn
- can be used on both adults and infants (babies - assist with diaper irritations)
- can be used to treat facial redness, itching,  sunburns and discomfort (damaged/dehydrated skin) or after a surgical procedure
- can be used during travel, after exercise, during travel and in Summer

Cons:
- can be a bit pricey, depending on your budget

This product retails for $24.99 (for 300 mL size) at Priceline but you can get it cheaper with the smaller sizes (50 mL or 150 mL - perfect for popping into your handbag) or at the Chemist Warehouse when they have a sale.

I would definitely repurchase this product for the pros outlined above. It's become part of my skincare routine and I simply can't live without it now!

I hope you enjoyed this post!

A week back I was in Priceline, on the search for a hot pink lipstick, after seeing some swatches of M.A.C's 'Viva Glam Nicki' on someone's blog.

On being a Uni student with a limited budget, I wasn't ready to fork out the RRP (in Australia) for the lipstick, so looking for a dupe was the only option for me at the moment.

I came across the Maybelline stand and Priceline was having a $10 sale (save $6.95) on all of their Color Sensational® Lipsticks (ends Monday 17th June).

Swatching a few shades from their Vivids range, I fell in love with '910 Shocking Coral', albeit it wasn't really a dupe for 'Viva Glam Nicki'.

After purchasing this shade, it's quickly becoming a favourite of mine for this month. I've been sporting it during the day/night, whenever I feel like my lips need a bit of attention.

It's a beautiful, loud, hot pink with a hint of orangey tones. Depending on the lighting and how you view it, it's not really a coral lipstick. I have trouble describing this lipstick colour; I've never seen anything like it. Yes, it's quite a "shocking" colour to me. Nevertheless, I love it!

My camera hasn't been able to capture the true colour of it; you have to see it in person.

Here's a swatch on my hand in natural daylight:


Lipstick packaging (I love the squarish/prism glossy cover with the silver interior):



NB: the case is more of a reddish pink colour, rather than orange. My camera has failed to capture the true colour of it (apologies!).

And here's what it looks like on my lips!


Overall, I'm very pleased with the lipstick!

Pros:
- vibrant, richly pigmented, opaque colour
- very moisturising
- can be worn during the daytime without the intensity of the colour (just apply thinly - 1 coat)
- easy application
- smells like play-doh and cupcakes (if you're sensitive to smells this can be a negative, though you don't smell it once it's on your lips)
- colour lasts for quite a few hours! (possibly all day if you avoid interaction with your lips)

Cons:
- nothing I can think of

If you're interested in purchasing this lipstick, check out Priceline for the $10 deal or The Chemist Warehouse for a cheaper deal! (they're having 50% off Maybelline, Revlon and Rimmel cosmetics! SALE ENDS SUNDAY 16th)

I hope you enjoyed this post!

Hello to everyone!


As stated in my title, this is my first post!

I would like to warmly welcome you to my first blog.
This blogging experience is all new and foreign to me; I've started this due to my recent hobby and enjoyment with trialling beauty products.

Blogger provides me with the perfect platform to project my views and experiences.
I would love to share my journey with you all, delving into the exciting and consistently innovative world of beauty (and all things nice!)

So come on! What are you waiting for?

(I hope you will come to enjoy what's more to come from this blog of mine!)


Thanks everyone!


Love,

Melissa.


P.S. If you want to... Follow my blog with Bloglovin