Empties: Products I have used up

Hi there

I have another empties post of products I have used up in the last few months.  I will let you know if I enjoyed the products or not.  So here goes...

Simple Kind To Skin Cleansing Wipes

I received three packets of the trial size packs, 7 wipes in each, as a gift with purchase offer.
I enjoyed using them, they get the job done and are just as good as the Clicks branded ones I like.  I have not purchased more as the Clicks ones are cheaper.

Simple Kind To Skin Refreshing Facial Wash Gel

I have already purchased another tube of this Simple face wash.  I have always believed in being gentle on my skin in the morning by using gentle face washes as part of my morning skincare routine.
I also use this face wash as night as my pre-cleanse, thereby cutting out the use of pre-cleanse oils, cleansing milks, followed by makeup wipes.  Using this at night has saved me time.  It removes all my makeup. I rinse it off with warm water.  I then follow with my salicylic acid cleanser with a facial brush.  My evening cleansing is then done. In winter, I just want to get finished as fast as possible.

Simple Kind To Skin Soothing Facial Toner

I know, there is a lot of simple Skin care in this post lol.  I have re-purchased this toner many times over.  It is a staple product for me.  I empty some into a fine mist spray bottle and spray some onto a cotton pad to use on my face.  I love this product.

Oxy Wipeout Pads

Oxy Wipeout Pads is another product I have always repurchased and you guys have seen over & over on my empties posts.  During Summer I use it almost every night.  In winter I try and use it only when I feel I need to, as it can dry out the skin.  Like if I am feeling greasy and feel a breakout under my skin about to appear.  This really does dry out any pimples before they surface, and If I have a breakout, it dries them up over night.  This product contains salicylic acid, so be sure to wear sunscreen during the day.


Left: Garnier Pure Active Daily Cleansing Gel Wash
Right: Pure Active Intensive Deep Pore Gel Wash

I have used up both these face washes and have repurchased the Garnier Pure Active Daily Cleansing Gel Wash (left) 3 times.  The one in the white bottle is supposed to be "intensive" but I find the one in the blue bottle is more "intensive"  The blue bottle is also cheaper for some reason.  It contains salicylic acid and purifying zinc for oily to combination skin prone to imperfections.  It eliminates oil & imperfections & tightens pores.
The white bottle has 2% salicylic acid & herbasoothe for oily to spot prone skin. It fights spots & fades marks.
I always use a salicylic acid face wash at night only with a facial brush, after my pre-cleanse.

Clarins Multi-Active Night Youth Recovery Comfort Cream

I absolutely adore the Clarins Multi-Active Night Youth Recovery Comfort Cream.  I agree, it is a comfort cream and its very soothing.  I first tried this product when I received a travel size last year (75% the size of a full size). I used the travel size, which lasted me forever, then I cracked open the full size.  Both of them lasted me from last year summer, to the beginning of winter this year.  You only need to apply a tiny bit.  It is supposed to be for normal to dry skin.  I wore this product through all types of weather, cold and hot, and its safe to say that I can use this product all year round, regardless if my skin is oily or dry.  I seldom find night creams that do not  block my pores and I am sensitive to fragrance.  This one is awesome on me.  Who doesn't love a good anti-ageing cream?

Magi Clear Even Skin Plus Bio-Active Cleansing Gel

This product is by the Institute Science At Work.  The whole Magi Cleat Range is sold in Clicks.  This should have been in an old empties post, but I did not include it.  I found the empty bottle the other day and decided to add it to this post.  The Magi Clear range includes a Cleansing Cream, Smoothing Cream Scrub, Gentle Skincare Soap, a Moisturiser and an Anti-marks Serum (which I would love to try)  They are affordable, dermatologist tested and is suitable for all skin types. 

I found this face wash to be very gentle.  I feel it would be better for winter time when the weather is colder.  I used this in the mornings only.

Softi Round Cotton Pads 80's

I always repurchase these over and over.  Most of the time there is a special on at Dischem where you get two packs for R19.99 or 1 pack for R12.99.  Dischem has changed the packaging to blue now, but the quality is still the same.

Bergamotessens

This is another recurring product on my blog.  I pour half a bottle of this in my shampoo and the other half in my conditioner.  It was recommended by a hairdresser and works like a charm.  I like the smell and my hair is healthy now because of this.  No more weak, damaged hair,  The only thing, is that it makes the shampoo watery in consistency (not effectiveness) I can live with that.  It does not do this to the conditioner at all.

I also finished a tub of Perfect Touch Shine & Hold Wax - Shape & Definition.  (No Picture Sorry)

I have repurchased this.  I use it to help give my Pixie cut some definition and shine every morning.

Essence Sun Club Oil Control Paper

These are great to keep in your purse especially in Summer when its hot.  I use blotting papers less in Winter time.  These are inexpensive and a good staple to keep in your hand bag.

Charlie Mega Wink Lash Enhancer Mascara

I bought this mascara because it was on sale for R39 at Dischem.  Wow, I should have bought more than one.  I like it more than the other mascaras that I have raved about.  I would have never purchased this if it was not on sale.  But I think I discovered it too late because it looks like it has been discontinued.  When I went back, the ones left in the sale section, had been opened.   Have a look at the brush.  it kinda looks like the brush on the Revlon Grow-Luscious mascara (the original one).  There was zero clumps, awesome separation of lashes, volume and extended length. .  I have short lashes and believe me when I say that I received compliments when wearing this, even while wearing reading glasses.  I am sad that this is now finished.

Charlie Mega Watt Volumising Macscara 

I bought the Charlie Mega Watt mascara the same day I bought the Charlie Mega Wink Mascara.  Sadly, this one didnt do anything for me.  It was just an "okay" standard mascara.  I would use it as a base coat under other mascaras.

The other products I used up consist of hand wash, soap, tooth paste etc., the usual stuff, nothing exciting.

Sorry for the long post, but thanks for reading.

Natalie

Wet 'n' Wild South Africa - Haul & Wishlist!

Hi there

In the last month I have been hearing that Wet n Wild Cosmetics is coming to South Africa.  I thought "I will believe it when I see it".   For months, there had been a sign where the "Accesorize Cosmetics" had been discontinued showing "Exciting New Brand Coming Soon"

I was in Gateway mall one of the days this week, and during my last 10 minutes, to kill time while waiting for the other ladies, I wondered into Clicks to hang out at the makeup counters.
While browsing I saw a mascara that looked unfamiliar to me.  When I looked up to see what the brand was, I nearly started jumping up and down with joy.  I had to contain myself or else security might has escorted me out if I hadn't behaved myself.  Yes, it was Wet n Wild!! I phoned my bff immediately.

By that time I only had 5 minutes left before I had to drive back to work.  Although I was rushed for time I did notice that most of the 8 pan palettes where sold out as where a lot of the other cosmetics on the stand.  I hope it is replenished soon.  I grabbed two things and ran to the till to pay.

Wet 'n' Wild Color Icon Single sahdow in Brulee

I have always heard how Brulee is the BEST hightlight shade on your browbone.  I was not leaving without this, no matter how rushed I was.

Wet 'n' Wild Color Icon in Petal Pusher

I love purples although I have plenty purple shadows.  The one I really wanted "Comport Zone" was sold out.  I was in a rush, I should have grabbed the 3 pan palettes that I have been coveting.

My Wish list:

Later that evening, I consulted the girls on the Makeup Board on Makeup alley and I asked them to suggest their best loved Wet 'n' Wild mascara.  So I will definitely go back for a mascara.

Wet 'n' Wild single eyeshadow in "Nutty" is supposed to be a dupe for Mac's 'Satin Taupe'.  I also like "Kitten" and "Penny".

Left to Right: Knock on Wood, Walking on Eggshels, Silent Treatment, Sweet as Candy

WET N WILD Color Icon Blusher - Pearlescent Pink

Wet n Wild Megalast Lipcolor

In particular, the lippy that caught my eye was "Just Peachy".  Think Pink, Mauve Outta Here and Cherry Bomb shades would be next.

That is just a few items that I am coveting.  There are lots more products like Bronzers, Liners, Nail Polishes, Coverall Foundation etc.  I must say that the Coverall Powder also looked damned good for my yellow toned skin.  But my wishlist may be filled by Xmas - we'll see!

xoxo

Nats

My Favourite Revlon Lipsticks

Revlon Superlustrous Lipstick Mad About Mauve #490

I have been wearing this lipstick so much since winter started.  It is a creamy mauvey, raspberry-ish colour, and have received compliments while wearing this lipstick. I have seen both light and darker skin toned ladies wearing this shade and it is universally flattering on everyone.  Unfortunately, I believe its been discontinued.
I purchased mine in December or January at the Edgars sale for R29. .

Revlon Colorburst Lipstick Carnation #025

I wore this colour alot before winter when the weather was warmer.  It looks very pretty on the lips and adda the right amount of colour. to the face for a natural every day look!  This lipstick was also purchased at the Edgars sale.

These are just two of my favourites.  Let me know in the comments below if you would like me to do a post showing all my Revlon lipsticks.
The other Revlon shades I would like to try are 030 Fuschia and 457 Wild Orchard.

Essence 2013 Oz The Great and Powerful Collection

I always wait in anticipation to see what Essence next collection will be.  Just like lots of people can't wait for Mac's new collections.  Its no secret that I like Essence as a brand.  

From the picture of the collection below I only picked up two things: The Highlighter Powder and the Cream blush.

The reason I picked up the Highlighter Powder was because the last highligher Essence released from the Twilight range was awesome and has become my everyday HG highlighter.  This powder has a good look to it (the embossing on the powder).  Makes me not want to mess the embossing.  Anyhoo, its a very smooth powder and I can actually use it as a setting powder instead as sadly there is no highlighting effect as all. 

The cream blush I have not used yet.  I guess I am scared because I have never tried a cream bush before and I want to experiments on the best way to apply it and not look like a clown.  Not sure if I am going to keep it or pass it onto a friend but I love the shade.

Here are swatches of the Cracked nail polishes;

 V.l.n.r 02 Winds of Change, 01 Master of Illusion

More swatches from the collection:

V.l.n.r. Cream Blush 01 Beware the wicked witch, Lipbalm 01 Glinda the good, Eyepencil 01 Fragile but feisty, Eyeshadow 01 Goodness

All pictures where taken from google.

Cant wait for the next Essence collection.

XOXO

New Essence Products & BB Cream Review

All pictures where taken from google.

I must say that for a very affordable brand, Essence is really stepping up to the plate.

Look at how cute those makeup sponges are!  Those sponges in other brands are a bit pricey.

I saw every product in store except for the sponges, they must be arriving soon.

I did not pick up the either of the powders as I have the Catrice Loose Prime and Fine Powder as well as the Rimmel Stay Matte Powder which are going to last for a while.

I did pick up the Essence Match 2 Cover Concealer as I am almost out of my HG Elizabeth Arden Maximum Coverage Concealer which I absolutely adore and have purchased twice.  The Elizabeth Arden once is pricey considering it gets finished very quickly.  So I was hoping to try an affordable alternative.

The back of the packaging states :-

"Cream Concealer - high coverage of skin imperfections and dark circles. 2 shades to perfectly match your skin-tone"

So the idea is to mix the two in order to find the correct tone for you. I only purchased it a day ago and have not really used it on my skin or under eyes.  I did test it on my hand when I got home.  It's a little drier than I would like it to be, so It would be good for my blemishes but hopefully not too dry for my under-eye which is where I need concealer daily.  I think I may just need to warm the product between my fingers first then apply to the eye area.  My fingers are crossed that this works for me.

The Essence all-in-one BB Creams come in 3 shades : 01 Universal, 02 Natural & 03 Medium.

Universal has a yellow undertone and suites my Mac NC30 skin-tone well.

Natural has a Neutral undertone for fair skin-tones, suitable for pink undertones as well in my opinion.

Medium looks like it has a yellow undertone as well and is slightly darker than the first two shades

It has SPF30, is fragrance and oil free, dermatologist tested.  This was the reason I picked this up as my skin is super sensitive. I did wear this today and set it with mineral powder, so far so good. 

Other products being launched from Essence in 2013 are:-

Stay Matte Lip Cream

Velvet Rose (01)
Smooth Berry (02)
Soft Nude (03)
Silky Red (04)

3D Eyeshadow

Irresistble Green (01)
Irresistble Purrple (02)
Irresistble First Love (03)
Irresistble Caramel Cream (04)
Irresistble Blue Sky (05)
Irresistble Mermaid Kiss (06)
Irresistble Smokey Eye (07)
Irresistble Vanilla Latte (08)
Irresistble Chocolates (09)

Stays No Matter What Waterpoof Eye Pencil (In-store. I can kick myself for not picking this up)

Schwarz
Braun
Grau

Stays No Matter What Waterproof Eyeliner (in Store. I fail at putting these on my eyes, my hands are not steady. I always admire it on everyone else)

I ♥ Punk Jumbo Eyeliner Pen (In store)

Stays No Matter What 24h Waterproof Volume Mascara (in Store)

All Eyes on Me Waterproof Multi-Effect Mascara (In Store)

Maximum Length Mascara (in Store)

I ♥ Extreme Crazy Volume Mascara (in Store.  I love this mascara and have done a review already)

Gel Tint (Not in store yet.  I am dying to try these.  Hopefully as good as the pricey and highly raved about YSL ones and the L'oreal ones)

Deep Red (02)
Flashy Apricot (03)
Hot Red (01)
Pink Exposed (04)

There are lots more products coming out as per their website like lashes and lash glue and lots more colours from their nail polish line, bronzers, nail art etc.  The list goes on.

I am so happy to have a brand like Essence that keeps up to date with the trends of high end brands at an affordable price.

Have you picked up any of the Essence stuff lately?  Please let us know in the comments below if the products whee a hit or miss.

Thanks for reading

XOXO

Rimmel Lasting Finish Soft Colour Mono Blush

Rimmel's Claim:
Long Lasting Blush Soft texture glides on smoothly and blends evenly for a natural sheer finish. Long lasting powder that give you a natural looking colour for up to 6 hours. Streak and smudge resistant.

The rimmel website claims that there are 7 shades available:
Bronze
Live Pink
Pink Rose
Santa Rose
Mauve Cool
Pink Sorbet
Tickle Me Pink

Although the only shades that I have seen in store are:
Live Pink
Bronze
Pink Rose
Santa Rose

I have not picked these up yet only because I received two gorgeous Sleek Blushes in a swap.
I do however have the first version of the Rimmel blush before it was re-packaged in the shade 012 Coral Rose and it has great pigmentation.  A little goes a long way.

I did swatch the tester in-store and it still has the good pigmentation and quality just like its predecessor.

Have you tried these new blushes.  Please let me know in the comments section.

Thank you

xoxo

Avon Haul March 2013

Here is my March 2013 Avon haul.  All these items where on sale. I did not pay full price for any of these items.  I got good quality items at bargain prices.

Advance Techniques 360 Nourishment Moroccan Argan Oil Mask.
I have been obsessed with Moroccan Argan Oil products and my hair has gone through a lot of chemical processes lately and is very dry and parched.  Hopefully this, together with the Moroccan oil will put some moisture back into my hair and make it grow. If it works, then it will definitely show up in a favorites post.

Color trend lipsticks - Any two for R55
Beige Star - The perfect nudish brown IMO. It does look a little darker in the picture but its more on the nude side.
Flirt - A really pretty coral shade.  I am obsessed with coral lipstick at the moment.
I have a few Avon lipsticks and have noticed what great quality they are and they have good colour payoff. I am really happy with these.

Simply Pretty Lip Balms - Cherry and Strawberry R9.95 each
I always keep a lip balm in my makeup bag and one in my handbag. Before I apply my makeup I apply lip balm to my lips, so by the time I get to apply my lipstick at the end, my lips are moisturized and there is no dry patches or cracks on my lips. My lipstick will then apply evenly.  I also apply lip balm before I sleep at night.

Avon Care Silicone Glove protective hand cream R19.95
Besides tissues, hand cream is another product I MUST keep in my draw at work. So I like to always get a back-up when I have opened the last one. There where two to choose from.  I bought the other one last time and thought I would try the silicone glove hand cream this time and compare the two and see which one is better.

Clearskin Blackhead Clearing Daily Cleanser with a free Blackhead Clearing Deep Treatment Mask
This was a good deal.  The price was reduced and included a free mask.  I have been using the Cleanser every night since I received it.  It has tiny beads in it so I don't need to use my facial brush.  These products have salicylic acid in them which is great for acne.   I normally use a facial bar soap with salicylic acid in it.  This is obviously easier than using a bar soap. I am please to say that it has kept my me blackhead free while I have been using it.  If my makeup is not removed properly (even if you think it is) I get blackheads.  Overall I am happy with the cleanser.  I have not tried the mask yet.  I have high hopes that it will be good as well.

So like I mentioned before, all the prices mentioned above where not full price.  I always get great deals from Avon.  They have sale items every month. Chances are a product I like will.go on sale sometime or the other.

I would like to hear if there are any Avon products that you love and purchase repeatedly. Let me know in the comments section own below.

Xoxo

Review: New Revlon Colorstay Ultimate Suede Lipsticks

At the end of February I was in the queue at Woolworth's waiting to pay when I spotted the March 2013 Destiny Magazine.  What caught my eye? Revlon Colorstay Ultimate Suede Lipsticks FREE with the purchase of the magazine.  This magazine costs R29.90. The free lipstick was a full size and not a mini and retails for R145.

Needless to say I took four.  The teller looked at me like I was crazy but I didn't care.
There where only four shades to choose from:

- 040 Flashing Lights - peachy coral

- 015 Runway - nudey brown

- 005 Muse - light mauve

- 035 Backstage - raisin brown

These lipstick apply exactly as the name suggests "suede".  It goes on smooth and moisturising.  After about 20 minutes it settles to a matte finish.  Essentially matte lipsticks are long-wearing lipsticks, and they last a long time on the lips.  Matte lipsticks also tend to be drying on the lips which feels uncomfortable, so you need to apply a lip balm underneath.

By force of habit with all lipsticks, I always apply lip balm, lip primer, lip liner, lipstick and top it off with some lipgloss. (A lot, I know)  but using a lip primer ensures me that my lipstick will wear for a longer period.  I did not own any long-wear lipsticks so this was essential for me.

This lipstick does not really require a primer and will last for a long time on it's own.  Though adding a lipgloss does make the lipstick less long wearing.  So, these lipsticks have vibrant colour pay-off and are long-wearing.
People who don't like matte lipsticks will not enjoy it. However, adding a lip balm and a lipgloss transforms it into a regular lipstick.

I have used Flashing Lights and Runway.  Backstage and Muse I will be giving to a friend.

Have you tried these Revlon lipsticks?  If so what was your impression of them?

Xoxo