March 2015 Favourites : Skincare

Hi

Here where my skincare favourites for March 2015.  I have already posted my Makeup favourites for the month of March. Click here to see my March 2015 Makeup Favourites.

Age Perfect Intense Nutrition Repairing Eye Balm 15.0 ml Repairing Eye Cream
My Clarins Eye cream that I love (and still do) was finished. I was browsing in Foschini and saw this baby.  I picked it up because it said it contains "Royal Jelly"  which is a very hydrating ingredient.  My under eye area is very dry so I look for hydrating ingredients and this is very thick and hydrating. I also have sensitive eyes and this does not irritate them at all.  It feels thick and luxurious.  Although it says "Eye Balm" is feel like a cream instead, which I prefer.  I can't use eye lotions and gels, or balms as they do not do the trick for me.

Loreal Revialift magic Blur Instant Skin Smoother Anti-Ageing Eye Cream
Honestly, I should have put this product under my makeup favourites instead of my skincare favourites.  Reason being, I use it as an under eye primer before applying concealer. I mentioned that my under eye area is very dry, and this seems to have moisturising properties with the added benefit of being a skin smoother.  I apply it after eye cream and before concealer.  I am enjoying this combo. In my honest opinion, I find this product way better that the Smashbox Under Eye Hydrating Primer, which was a waste of money.

 

IQ Sun Care Face and Body SPF 50 Daily Defence UVA & UVB Protection

Product description - A non-oily water resistant cream that helps protect skin from ageing UVA and burning UVB rays.  

The fact that it prevents premature ageing and helps protect collagen and gives wrinkle prevention is everything I want in a sun protection cream.  I went swimming with this on my face and I did not have to re-apply.  It is also mineral oil free.  The IQ skincare range is developed by dermatologists so I know my skin is in good hands. 

Eucerin Even Brighter Night Cream

I have been using the Clarins Bright Plus Night Cream which I love.  I was going to re-purchase but, at the Dischem's big sale last month, I decided to give the Eucerin one a try.  It was on sale for R170 - what a bargain.  It claims to do the same thing that Clarins Bright Plus does.  Let me tell you, I do not regret buying this product.  It is supposed to be Dermatological Skincare, which is plus for me.  Things that don't clog my pores (which I am prone to) are welcome in my stash.  This is very comfortable on my skin.  It has picked up where my Clarins cream has left off.  My face and neck are practically the same tone now, so foundation does not look funky on me. Acne scars go away even faster.  My complexion is brighter.  I am hoping with continue use that my pigmentation marks lighten up considerably as well.  

Clarins Bright Plus Serum (Intensive Brightening Smoothing Serum)

Because I had already replaced my Clarins Bright Plus night cream with the Eucerin Even Brighter night cream, a purchased the Clarins Bright Plus Serum instead.  Although I gave my Clarins anti-ageing range a break, this serum also provides for that as well.  It is supposed firm facial features and smooth away fine lines.  Not forgetting its main function to minimize the appearance of dark spots  and prevent their re-appearance.  Kkin is supposed to glow with youthful radiance.  I am all about that.  This has definitely been the boost I need to use under the night creams.  My marks are going away even faster than I had hoped.  I love that it is non greasy.  I am currently using this at night only for now.

Thanks for reading

Yves Rocher Elixer 7.9 Youth Energy Care - Day Care

Hi all

I have been using the Yves Rocher Elixer 7.9 Youth Energy Care Day Care and after two months I can say that I love it!

I still love my Bionike Base 100 cream but the sales lady at Woolworths talked me into it and I don't regret buying it.  I am definitely going to try the night cream when my regular night cream is finished.

Yves Rocher is one of the leading beauty brands in France and is currently available in the UK, USA and RSA.  Yves Rocher has reasonably priced products containing natural ingredients that actually work well. The Elixir 7.9 Youth Energy Day Care is botanically based with a mix of 7 plants with anti-aging properties and 9 patents (hence the 7.9...get it?).

Active ingredients include;

APHLOIA MANGIFERIN, TARA SEED EXTRACT, GREEN RICE INOSITOL, SANDTHORN SEED EXTRACT, ALOE VERA POLYSACCHARIDES

Elixir 7.9 claims to;

• In one day : signs of fatigue are reduced, radiance is revived.
• In one week : wrinkles are reduced, skin texture is refined and has a more even appearance.
• In one month : skin appears radiant with youth.

The Plus:
Paraben free, mineral oil free, colorant free,
– Tested under dermatological supervision.

I chose the day cream for Normal to Combination skin, which is exactly how I would describe my skin at the moment.  My skin does seem more radiant and Elixir 7.9 feels great on the skin.  It's not thick though it does give lasting moisture and has a silky feel once applied to skin.  So my T-zone oils are kept under control while my cheek area is moisturized.  It also plays well under my sunscreen.  Normally I stay mattified until I apply sunscreen which brings out my oils.  This does not happen with this cream.  The look and feel of this cream is like a mix between a gel and a cream, which I think is why it has a light texture without the oily residue.

I have sensitive skin and this agrees with my skin 100%, no breakouts .  In fact, it has a calming effect on  my skin and I think it prevents breakouts for me.  It has a pleasant botanical smell that I really like (not an artificial fragrance smell)

Elixir 7.9 has a large range for all skin types, so check out the range at selected Woolworths stores.  I purchased mine at Gateway Theatre of shopping in KZN.

Yves Rocher also has  makeup line at reasonable prices which is worth checking out.

Xoxo

Natalie

Review : Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque & Dupe

I received some skincare products from a friend.  She received skincare products in a swop from a friend overseas, unfortunately not sold here in SA. She in turn shared the skincare with me.  What a good friend!  From all the skincare I received, the one I have used so far is the ever famous and raved about Queen Helene Mint Julep masque. 

The mask is said to be a dupe for the Lush Mask of Magnaminty which costs a  bit more.

Gross, I know, but this is the reality.

Queen Mint Julep Masque was developed by a dermatologist.  

This treatment helps to dry up pimples, rinse away blackheads and shrink enlarged pores.

Apply Mint Julep Masque to a clean face and neck.  

As it firms and hardens within minutes, it draws out impurities from your pores. 

After the masque is removed, your skin will feel clean, refreshed and smooth. 

Even for individuals who are fortunate to be free of skin problems, Mint Julep Masque is a refreshing facial treatment that helps relax tired muscles and ease tension lines on the face and neck. 

I did not try this mask on my neck bit I did use it on my face and under my jaw.  My skin was definitely smoother.  I used it on my daughter as well as she tends to get acne n the sides of her face and on her forehead.  Her face looked clear and brighter after using the mask.  And yes, it is minty, in a good way.

This mask can be bought online and the Lush mask is sold in certain areas in South Africa.  The Queen Helene Mint Julep Masque would be a nice staple skincare product to have.  I would like to try the Lush mask just to compare and see is it really an exact dupe or not.

Haul - Simple Skincare and gift with purchase

In a previous post I mentioned that Dischem had a Beauty Fair sale that ended on 16th March.  I picked up my Bionike moisturizers and sunscreen and received excellent free gifts.  There where a lot of brands at discounted prices with free gifts.

I have been using and loving the Simple Kind To Skin Soothing Facial Toner for a while now.  Since my bottle was almost finished and it was on sale, I had to pick up another bottle.  The Simple products where marked down and there was a gift with purchase.  The gift was a free packet of 7 mini wipes with every Simple product purchased.

I purchased two bottles of Toner and a bottle / tube of the Refreshing Facial Wash Gel.  Both the face wash and toner normally sell for R59.  It was on sale for R39 each and I received 3 packets of mini wipes for the three Simple products I purchased.  What a great deal! Now I did not need to by any wipes that I normally buy on a monthly basis.

Thanks for reading.
Xoxo
Natalie

Empties: Facial Skincare - products I have used up

Hi

I have accumulated a lot of empties since I have not blogged in a while.  So I have decided to split my empties posts into different categories.  I have already done one for makeup items that I have used up.  This one I will concentrate on Facial Skincare.  Two more will follow being Haircare and Body Skincare products.

Bionike 50+ Defence Sun Very Highy Protection, Sun Spay Lotion - sensitive and intolerant skin

This is my Holy Grail sunscreen.  I used to use the cream (far left tube) but now I use the spray lotion.  I like both but love the spray more.  The cream is more for winter when my skin is dry.  The spray I can use all year round over any moisturiser.  The bottle lasted me at least a year and I got it on sale.  I have purchased the bigger 200ml bottle this time around.

Bionike Defence 100 Protective and Reinforcing Base Cream.

As you can tell, I love Bionike products.  I have raved about them before.  They might say its for Sensitive skin, but all skin types will love it.  This works so well with the Bionike sunblock mentioned above.  I use this most of the year round (Spring, Summer and Autumn).  I have repurchased this already along with the Bionike Defence 200 Base Cream which I will use during winter when my skin is drier.

***Dischem currently has their sale on.  When you buy two Bionike products, you get a free bag.  I love mine and have used it already.  If you buy a third product, you get an eye cream of your choice free.  I chose the most expensive eye cream of course.  Cant wait for my current eye cream to finish so I can use the Bionike one.***

Simple Soothing Facial Toner
Garnier Pure Active Daily Cleansing Gel Wash

I love the Simple Toner and my skin loves it.  It has no alcohol in it, but still does its job. I use it after my facial cleanser.  I have repurchased this a few times already.  I always decant some into a spray bottle and spray it onto a cotton pad.  I love using it like this and I don't use too much toner this way.  It retails for R59 at Dischem.  At the Dischem sale, you can purchase it for R39 and receive a pack of free Simple mini wipes.  Sale ends 16 March 2014.

Garnier Pure Active Daily Cleansing Gel Wash contains salicylic acid and purifying Zinc (two of my favourite ingredients.  Salicylic acid helps to stop pimples before they even decide that they want to surface.  It kills the bacteria in other words.  I use this with my facial cleansing brush.

Khiels Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution

I blogged about this after my sister and I went halvies and bought this.  I really enjoyed using this.  I like serums more in the winter time when my skin is dry although this can totally be used all year round.  I think it was worth the money and my skin did feel better and look brighter in the morning when I woke up.  I might repurchase in the future, for now I have so many samples of serums which I will finish first.

Clarins Instant Eye Makeup Remover

I received a travel size as a gift with purchase.  Mine is now finished.  You have to shake it to mix the white liquid with the blue liquid then dispense some onto a cotton pad and hold it over the eye for a few seconds, then wipe away your eye makeup.  A very nice product.  I have grown to love Clarins products, and the travel sizes are 3 quarters of the size of their normal products.  Clarins are also very generous with their samples.

Clarins Multi-Active Night Youth Recovery Comfort Cream

Another Clarins travel size gift with purchaase that I adored so much, I bought the full size (in the glass jar).  My skin loves it.  It has all the right anti-aging stuff in it.  No fragrances that normally irritate my skin.  I feel the difference in my skin when I wake up in the morning.  It is supposed to be for normal to dry skin, although my skin is combo in summer, I still love it.  The salicylic acid in my cleanser does dry out the skin, so a good moisturiser like this is absolutely welcome.

Dischem Softi 10% Pure Corron Pads

I had to mention these.  I have tried lots of cotton wool and I must say that I hate the rolled up cotton wool and I do not like like the cotton balls either.  I have tried other brands of cotton pads but they don't feel right, or they tear. I always repurchase these.  Fluorescence free cotton pads 80 pieces pure and gentle.  Both sides of the cotton pad have different patterns on it, which makes a difference to me when I apply to my face.  It is always on sale in Dischem.  R12.95 for one pack or two packs for R19.95.  Sometimes you even get three packs for that price.

 

Ponds Perfect Colour Complex Naturals Gentle Exfoliating Facial foam
Clicks Aloe Vera Omega 3+6 Facial Scrub

I like to use a salicylic acid cleanser in the evening and a mild cleanser in the morning.  I used this up and I quite liked it.  It was not too mild (I use very mild cleansers in the morning in winter).  This one left my skin feeling like it removed all the dirt and oil but my skin was not stripped.  My skin was left comfortable.  It has a cream consistency but is very foamy, which I like.

The Click facial scrub, I used only about twice and forgot about it, but my daughter devoured the rest of the tube.  As you can see the tube is out of shape because of the way she squeezed it.  She obviously loved it.  It was only R29 in Clicks.

Thanks for reading
xoxo
Natalie

R-Lactin 10% Lactic Acid Lotion

lactic ACID AND SKIN TEXTURE

Practically everyone would love to have perfect skin that's free of blotches and blemishes. Unfortunately, that ideal is not so easy to achieve. I was looking to improve my skin's overall texture, and I might have found a friend in lactic acid.

As an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), lactic acid is a member of a well-known family of exfoliants. As such, it improves skin's overall texture by moisturizing, sloughing off dead surface cells and promoting collagen growth. Consequently, lactic acid often works well as a wrinkle and line reducer and helps to even out skin tone.

Lactic acid is considered one of the best AHAs to use, because most AHAs can often be irritating to the skin. Lactic acid is uniquely gentle by comparison and typically doesn't irritate people who have skin conditions like acne or rosacea. However, if your skin is extremely sensitive, you should still be cautious when using these products, especially if the lactic acid content is particularly high.

Peels -- even lactic acid peels -- can sometimes be harsh on skin, particularly inflamed or acne-ridden skin. If you need something milder for your skin, lactic acid creams and lotions might be a good alternative for you, particularly if you are looking to moisturize and exfoliate.

R-Lactin Lotion R-Lactin is available in two variants: A Cream – in a 125ml jar which is a rich moisturiser for very dry skin and small affected areas on the skin A Lotion – in a 250ml pump bottle, which is a lighter moisturiser and used for larger affected areas to ensure all over treatment and moisturising.

R-Lactin Lotion contains the active ingredient Lactic acid, at a concentration of 10% neutralised to a pH of between 4 and 4.5. (Lactic acid on its own has a lower pH than 4 to 4.5 and is too acidic, therefore the pH is neutralised/adjusted to a pH of 4 to 4.5. The lower a pH, the higher the acidity). R-Lactin Lotion helps with the removal of dead skin cells in the stratum corneum (skin’s uppermost layer) not only improving the appearance of skin, but also helps increase the penetration of other skin care ingredients such as moisturisers. R-Lactin Lotion is ideal for use on conditions such as rough skin texture caused by sun damage, dry scaly skin (Xerosis), Keratosis pilaris and Ichthyosis vulgaris. It helps to smooth fine wrinkles and helps to reduce Hyper-pigmentation such as old age spots (Solar lentigo) Contents: Purified Water, Lactic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Beeswax, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetostearyl Alcohol, Polysorbate 20, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth 20, Isopropyl Myristate, Cetyl Alcohol, Triethanolamine. Preserved with Phenoxyethanol and Ethylhexylglycerin.

Special Precaution:

Sun Alert- Lactic Acid may cause increased sensitivity to the sun.  Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, sun lamps, or tanning booths.  Use sunscreen or protective clothing if you must be outside for a prolonged period.

I use my Bionike SPF 50 sunscreen religiously every day.

Both the cream and Lotion can be purchased from Dischem for R79.  I use less than a full pump (a full pump is way too much).   It has a runny consistency and I have a feeling that this bottle is going to last a very long time.  The directions on the package where not clear.  It stated to use it twice a day or as directed by a medical doctor and to wash your hands after application unless your hands are part of the treatment.  I decided to start using it twice or three times a week at night.   I have used it for about three weeks now, and am happy with the results so far.  The skin on my cheeks is always dry, but not since I have been using this product.  I like the fact that it smooths out the skin without drying it or making your skin peel like other AHA’s.  I cant comment about wrinkle removal yet, but I will keep my fingers crossed.

I know that this was a long post, but I just wanted to add as much info about Lactic acid and this product from the research that I have done.

Thank you

xoxo

Nats

Clarins Haul & Gift With Purchase x2

Hi there

I have really being trying to invest in some good skincare.  My Bee Natural Rich Hydrating Face Balm was almost finished and it has not been restocked for at least two months now.  I reviewed this balm in a previous post, and was impressed by it.  It has anti-ageing properties and is even better under a serum, not to mention perfect under my eyes.  However, I was now left without a night cream or an eye cream.

Clarins is a brand I have come to love.  I only started purchasing from Clarins from the end of 2012.  Almost all high end brands have their GWP in different stores form time to time.  I didn't post my last GWP I received from Clarins.  Let me tell you, I loved the products I bought , the GWP and the ton of samples I received.  

So how Clarins works their GWP is that you have to buy two products (one of which must be a moisturiser or serum) and you get to choose two travel size products free.  Bear in mind that a travel size product is 30ml and a full size is 50ml. That is damn good in my opinion.  Also, this time around, besides getting to choose the two free products, you also receive a stylish bag two free products in it as well.  

The products I purchased to qualify for the GWP

Clarins Everlasting Foundation in 110 Honey

This has no doubt become a holy grail foundation for me.  I LOVE IT!

I use a damp beauty blender sponge for natural medium coverage and a small stippling brush for flawless full coverage.  I never need a concealer with this foundation.  It is also great on my sensitive skin and is a great colour match.

Clarins Eye Trio

This was my serum purchase.  The eye serum alone was more expensive than buying the trio.  It blows my mind that trio with a full sized serum is priced cheaper than the serum on its own. Which I am not complaining.  The trio contains:

- Serum Super Lift Multi Regenerative Advanced Extra-Firming Eye Contour Serum - Full Size

- Instant Eye Makeup Remover - 30ml

- Advanced Extra Firming Eye Contour Cream 3ml

Like I mentioned before, with your purchase you get to choose two travel size products.  The bag with the two products in front of it are part of the GWP that you also get free, which is a 100ml Clarins Eau Dynamisante Mositurising Body Lotion as well as a sample of Clarins Eau Dynamisante fragrance sample.  Here are the choices for the travel size products:

My 2 choices where a no brainer:

I needed a night cream so I chose the Multi-Active Night Youth Recovery Comfort Cream.

Clarins Beauty Flash Balm - This is a back-up for when my other tube finishes.  Looks great under the Clarins foundation.  It brightens and Tightens. I cant say enough good things about this product.  

But it didn't end there......

Edgars / Red Square offer - You walk away with a stylish bag, full of fabulous treats when you spend R750 or more.

So I received a second bag free with four lovely samples:

-  Paco Rabanne Lady Million Eau de Parfume 

- Carolina Herrera 212 Men NYC Eau De Toilette

- CK We Are One Eau De Toilette

- Clarins Double Serum Complete Age Control Concentrate

Those where my Clarins purchases and free gifts.  It was like opening a gift at Christmas and no doubt brightened my day.  I received things I really needed, being the night cream, eye cream and foundation and was pleasantly surprised with all the other goodies I received.

xoxo

Nats

Bionike Haul & Gift With Purchase

Bionike is sold exclusively at Dischem Stores, who every so often has sales.  The recent sale was their "Spring Fair" with lots of discounts and gift with purchases from the very low priced brands, to the very high priced brands that they sell.

I am no doubt in love with Bionike products.  They have skincare for every skin type, and is 100% preservative free and fragrance free formulas.  Bionike was created for people with sensitive skin, by people who have sensitive skin, but everyone one can use Bionike.  They have skincarefor all skin types (dry, combo, oily, acne prone etc).

They had a Gift With Purchase on.  A purchase of two products will get you a free cleanser of your choice.  A purchase of three products will get you a free cleanser and an automatic opening and closing Bionike umbrella.  I had already received the umbrella in a previous GWP and I didn't need an extra product.

Bionike 50+ Defence Sun Very High Protection Sun Spray Lotion - Sensitive and Intolerant Skin

I loved the last bottle of this I had.  I cannot use chemical sunscreen, this physical sunscreen is the bomb.  I even made my sister buy one.  I have had the cream formula as well which is perfect for winter.  I will always buy this product over and over.  Price R149 for 150ml.  (R189 for the bigger size)

Bionike Defence 100 Protective and Reinforcing Base cream - Sensitive and Intolerant Skin

This is my third tube of this wonderful cream.  I wear it over the sunscreen in the morning.  It does come in a 200 Base Cream as well.  The Base 100 cream seems to be more for combo oily skin and the Base 200 cream is supposed to be for dry skin according to the sales assistant.  I really want to try the Base 200 cream this time but was sold out by the time I reached the Bionike counter. Price R140

Bionike Defence Radiance Milk Cleanser - Normal and Combination Sensitive Skin

This was the cleanser that I received free with my purchase of two products.  Almost all the cleansers where gone from the shelf because of the GWP offer.  I had a choice of this one and a two in one creamy cleanser, which now I feel I should have taken as it would have been similar to by Almay two in one creamy cleanser which I adore.  This Cleanser is still lovely though.  It is a pre-cleanser not a finishing cleanser.  So you have to  put it on your face over your makeup and you wipe it off.  It comes with a lovely pump which is always a pleasure to use.

Thanks for reading
xoxo
Nats

Kiehl's Haul - Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Serum & Samples

Hi All

I have been reading reviews on Kiehl's products for a while now from overseas bloggers.  Recently bloggers in South Africa have been raving about Khiels products as well, specifically Cape Town.

None of the mall's close by to where I live stock Kiehl's products.  I stumbled across a Kiehl's counter purely by accident when my sister and I took a drive to "The Pavillion" mall which is a bit out of the way.  You can only imagine my excitement.  The sales assistants wear white lab coats who offer expert personal consultations. You also receive complimentary samples with every visit. I loved the set up of the Kiehl's counter, it drew me in immediately. 

Kiehl's is by no means a new brand.  This brand has been trading since 1851 in New York's East Village neighbourhood.  After chatting to the sales assistant for quiet a while my sister and I decided to purchase the Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Serum for R585 and split it in half.  

KIEHL'S CLEARLY CORRECTIVE DARK SPOT SERUM

"Fast-acting serum that evens skin tone and diminishes dark spots to impart overall radiance and luminosity to the skin"

CREME DE CORPS

My sister also purchased the "Crème De Corps" "All day hydration enriched with the finest skin-nurturing ingredients for a rich, elegant skin texture".  She bought it because she was complaining about having dry flaky skin.  It is also sold in the form of a thicker body butter.  She said that she is loving this product, and is keen to try their facial moisturisers once her current skincare is finished.

My sister and I both received one of each of the samples below....

KIEHL'S MIDNIGHT RECOVERY CONCENTRATE

I used this every night as advised by the sales assistant, and I was told to use the Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Serum during the day.  I used this it under my moisturiser at night and although I only used it for over a week and a half, I did notice that my skin looked brighter and more supple in the morning.  I have noticed a difference especially now that the sample is finished.  My skin now appears drier in the morning since not using it any more.  This is the product that everyone has been raving about, and now I see why.  Imagine what it could have done for my skin with continued use.  

Three more samples we both received where
- Line-Reducing Eye-Brightening Concentrate
- Highly Efficient Skin-Tone Corrector
- Epidermal Re-Texturizing Micro-Dermabrasion

I have only used the Eye Concentrate, not every night though, and the other samples are still unopened.  I took a pamphlet which gives you a brief description of each of their products and what they do for your skin.  These product samples sound amazing from reading the pamphlet and will definitely try them out in the near future.  The sales assistant also explained these products to us.

Three more samples where also given to us which I let my sister have was:
- Amino Acid Shampoo
- Amino Acid Conditioner
- Superbly Restorative Argan Dry Oil

I started off using the Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Serum only in the morning at first.  Now I use it morning and night since the Midnight Recovery Concentrate sample is finished.  I do have sun spots "hyper-pigmentation" that I want to diminish.  So I am going to use this product religiously and hopefully report back soon with the results.

Thank you for reading
xoxo
Nats 

Homemade eyemakeup remover

Hi all

I wanted to share my easy, effective and cost saving homemade eye-makeup remover which consists of only two ingredients - rose water and olive oil.

I had previously received travel sizes of an Estee Lauder and an Elizabeth Arden eye-makeup remover in  gift with purchase boxes.  The Elizabeth Arden one in particular was half liquid and half oil.  It looked like mineral oil but I did not want to make one with mineral oil (baby oil) . After these two where finished I continued using  the Like Silk eye-makeup remover which I received in a Glambox last year.  It was wonderful at first but started burning my eyes when I started using it again.
So I decided to make my own and I love it. I used the empty Elizabeth Arden travel size bottle to store my homemade eye-makeup remover.  I used Rosewater purchased from.Gorimas R3.99 for 200 ml and Olive Oil from Dischem from the medical isle 50ml, I think it was less than R25.

The recipe consists of half Rosewater and half Olive oil.  I ended up.putting a tad bit more rosewater than olive oil (on purpose) and this ratio worked for me.

Both these ingredients are soothing and moisturise the eye area while removing every drop of waterproof eye-makeup I may have on my eye. To use I shake up the mixture well then use a.cotton pad to dispense the mixture on.  I then hold the cotton pad over my eye for a few seconds which melts the eye-makeup. Then I wipe the eye area to remove the eye-makeup.  Its quick and easy and I don't have to.rub and tug at the gentle eye area.

I.don't think I will waste money on eye-makeup removers with harsh ingredients ever again.

Thanks.for reading.
Xoxo

Review : Revlon 24 Hours Gentle Cleansing Milk

I purchased this product months back and have since finished the bottle. It was purchased from Dischem for about R54 for a 400ml bottle. The bottle is very big so it was cheap for the quantity that you get.  The L"oreal one is about R90 or much less product so this was value for money.  The packaging looks expensive and comes with a lovely pump. It says that it is suitable for all.skin types.

The texture of this product is more of a cleansing lotion instead of a cleansing milk.
Cleansing milks work better in my experience and opinion. So it looked and worked like a cleansing lotion, which was just okay.  I also was not fond of the slight "relaxer" smell it had.  But the smell disappeared once I wiped it off my face two minutes later.

When you pump it out the bottle it dispenses a cream coloured lotion which I apply to my face. I then take three tissues (doubled on top of each other) then wipe off.  I then follow with a cleansing wipe (Clicks brand).

My opinions:-
  I was initially happy to find an affordable cleansing milk, which are generally more expensive and effective than cleansing lotions. Cleansing milks remove makeup off your skin way better.  But this was not a milk as it says on the bottle, rather it is a lotion.
I did not enjoy the smell.
I loved the packaging, and the quantity you get at the affordable price I paid.

I still want to try Revlon's other cleansing milk called - Eterna 27+ Softening Cleansing Milk.
Since I finished this cleansing milk, I am using the Victorian Garden Cleansing Cream that I received in a swap from a friend. It works better. I.see more makeup.come off onto my tissue and I use less of the product.  I will do a review on this at a later stage.

Xoxo

Revlon Photoready BB Cream

I went to the Dischem Beauty sale saw that the Revlon BB Cream has finally landed in our stores, I had to pick it up only because it had such good reviews.
Revlon Photoready BB Cream comes in 4 shades, Fair, light/Medium, Medium and Deep.

It has the following claims:
- HYDRATES like moisturizer
- SMOOTHES like primer
- COVERS like foundation
- BLURS FLAWS like concealer
- PROTECTS with SPF 30 like sunscreen

My first impressions of this was that it is way better than the Garnier BB Cream which I gave away and didn't bother to review.  The Garnier one was too pink, did not cover anything and clogged my pores.

I was happy to find that there is four shades. Normally fair is too light and medium is too dark for me.
Light / Medium is an okay match for me.  It has better coverage than the Garnier BB Cream.  It is not so pink like the Garnier one either.  It is slightly dark for me but not by much.  I can get away with it especially in the evening time.  I can also mix it with my Colorstay foundation or Estee Lauder Double Wear foundations which are such dry foundations.  This will add moisture to those formulations.  It can also be used under a foundation as a primer.  I applied it with my fingers and instead of using concealer, I added a second coat after the first one.  I also always set this with a powder.

I have mainly used this in the evening only because it is summer now and worry that it will slide off my face because of the moisturising properties.  I cant wait to try this out in winter as I am always looking for more moisture during this season.

Has anyone tried this BB Cream?  If so, please leave me a comment and let me know how you like it.

xoxo

Review : Blackhead Sandalwood Treatment

Hi there

I had this product included in my last "empties" post, and a lovely fellow blogger asked me do to a review on this product. I must firstly apologize for taking soo long to do this review as work has been consuming all my time. Its financial year end and so forth so its going to be hectic for a while.
Anyway, let me get on with the review....

Sandalwood Blackhead Treatment 50ml - helps remove blackheads and prevents re-occurrence. This is what is states on the front of the bottle. Price R27, purchased from Gorimas.

Key Ingredients:
Sandalwood
Cirrebelle Beads
Aqua
Strawberry Fragrance

Directions:
To get rid of toxins causing blackheads, apply scrub in a circular movements daily. 
Wash off with water.
Follow with Sandalwood mask for excellent results.

I have very sensitive skin so I was worried about the strawberry fragrance. It does not have the typical sandalwood powder smell. This definitely agrees with my skin.
It is typically a light pink cream with blue beads in it.  The beads where another surprise.  It was not a typical scrub. I initially thought that the beads where "too soft" and thought is was not going to be effective in removing blackheads.
After I applied it to my face and chin area, I kept rubbing it into the skin for a few minutes and then let it sit on the skin for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing it off with warm water.
  The blackheads immediately move to the surface of the skin. I am not sure if this happens for anyone else who uses this product.  I then use a blackhead remover directly after rinsing this off.  I was impressed after not expecting much. My skin is smoother after using this.

I do not use it daily as the container suggests (no time, laziness etc) but I try to use it once or twice a week. I really should try to use it more often. This product has now become a staple in my skincare routine.  I have repurchased this product and am on my third bottle.

Other products I have tried are:
Sandalwood Scrub - for deep cleanse & exfoliation
Sandalwood Eye Mask - for dark circles and tired eyes.  Vitamin E enriched.

My next DIY skincare project is to make a homemade vitamin c serum when I find some time as others have had success with this.

Please leave any comments and suggestions below.
Thank you guys.
Xoxo

Homemade Witch Hazel Makeup Remover

Creating homemade witch hazel makeup remover is easy if you have the right ingredients. While witch hazel can be used on its own for some home remedies, to create the makeup remover, witch hazel needs to be mixed with Extra Virgin Olive Oil. To create this makeup remover, witch hazel is mixed in equal parts with the oil.. The mixture should be shaken before each use and applied with cotton balls to remove makeup.

Benefits
The benefits of using witch hazel as a makeup remover are due to witch hazel's astringent properties and oil's moisturizing qualities. Because it lacks irritating chemicals, homemade witch hazel makeup remover works well on sensitive skin. In addition, this homemade remedy acts as an astringent, cleansing not only makeup, but also reducing buildup in pores. Oil, especially olive, moisturizes and softens the skin while it helps remove makeup.

How I use this homemade cleansing oil:-

Squirt out onto a cotton ball/round and apply to face.
Using upward and outward motion this will start to melt the makeup and gunk right off your face!
You will most likely go through several cotton balls but it's worth it.  I sometimes use a facial tissue to wipe off the oil once I have applied it with the cotton ball.
**Yes, it's safe to use on eye makeup.

I then use a normal makeup up cleansing wipe to remove any residue.

Next I use my normal cleanser , toner and moisturizer eye cream etc.

Other uses:-

Since I wear long wear foundation, it tends to stain my brushes.  So this mixture comes in handy.  I soak my foundation brushes in this mixture for a few seconds.  it melts the embedded foundation off the bristles.  I squeeze out the extra oil then apply some shampoo to the bristles.  Its amazing that even when you think the brush is clean, more foundation comes off it.  I then give the brush a final wash / rinse with my homemade brush cleanser / disinfectant.  I have have a blogpost on this brush cleanser.  Viola! Squeaky clean brushes!

Thank you for reading

xoxo

Simple - Skincare brand now available in South Africa

I have heard of this brand from overseas bloggers and youtubers.  I have also read reviews on makeupalley. Which previously meant nothing to me as I was not able to try out this brand as it was not previously available in South Africa.  I am always on the look out for products that are paraben free and claim to be made for sensitive skin like mine.  I may try some of these products when I am out of my current skincare.

These products are currently available at Dischem stores.  They are also very reasonably priced.

Cleansing Facial Wipes
Purifying Cleansing Lotion
Moisturising Foaming Facial Wash
Soothing Facial Toner
Smoothing Facial Scrub
Conditioning Eye Make-up Remover
Hydrating Light Moisturiser
Replenishing Rich Moisturiser

Claim on website:
Kind to skin
When your skin's happy and glowing, you feel healthier and happier too! Our Kind to Skin range contains the perfect blend of active ingredients and multivitamins to keep your skin in tip-top condition. Perfect for even sensitive skin.

Which products have you tried from the simple brand?

Concealing dark under eye circles

I know a lot of woman have a problem concealing dark under eye circles.  They make you look older and make you look tired.  Dont you just hate it when someone looks at you and says  "Tough night?".
The first step, however, is figuring out just what the problem is.

When dark shadows or bags linger, the cause typically is not something temporary, like a few too many cocktails. It might be something you've inherited. Pigmentary issues that cause under-eye discoloration are common among people of Asian or African descent. Age also contributes to dark circles. With age, the skin around the eye thins, exposing the tiny blood vessels that lie just below.

Eye creams that contain caffeine may help a bit because they constrict the underlying blood vessels.
Other, more expensive options, including treatment with certain lasers such as IPL or intense pulse light. Skin lightening creams that contain hydroquinone or kojic acid may also diminish the darkness.

Makeup can help conceal dark circles. Hiding dark circles with concealer is simpler than you may think. Choose a concealer that matches your skin tone. If you have mild discoloration, pick a liquid formula. If your shadows are more prominent, go for more coverage with a cream or cake concealer. Lightly pat the concealer on from the inner corner of your eye to just past the outer corner.

I however have been using a peach corrector and this works well for me,

My current routine to cover dark circles
First I start off with a hydrating eye cream in the daytime. Claudia Stevens Total Eye Skin Hydration

Claudia Stevens Total Eye Skin Hydration

I found that a hydrating primer works well to create a smooth base for the products to follow,  This one helps keep the moisture in.

Palladio Herbal Foundation Primer

I then follow with a peach corrector which is very creamy.  Peach conteracts the dark blue or purple circles. Dry formaulas will only accentuate the dark dry circles.  This product is labelled as a concealer but it is a dictint peach colour corrector.

DEFENCE COLOR COVER Utra-coverage concealer

Now that the dark circles are covered with a peach corrector, you need to match your under eye colour to the rest of your face.  I use Estee Lauder Double Werar Stay n Place Foundation.  This foundation is full coverage and will cover the peach colour placed underneath.

Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Foundation

You may, or may not want to set the under eye area, but you need to be careful as to what formula you use. A powder meant for oily skin will dry out the eye erea whch will accentuate every line you may have under your eyes.  I use Smashbox's HALO Hydrating Perfecting Powder which does not dry out the skin  but keeps moisture in.

Smashbox's HALO Hydrating Perfecting Powder

If you would like to go one step further to make sure the powder does not go cakey and settle in the lines and also to blend all the products applied into the skin, try a setting spray.  You may either spray your powder brush and them dab it under the eyes or just spritz your whole face to set your makeup.

The Body Shop Vitamin E Face Mist

Use The Body Shop Vitamin E Face Mist for dry skin or plain rosewater (with no glycerin) for oily skin. Distilled water in a spray bottle works well for dry skin as well.