Why a blog?

Somewhere to jot down all things I am passionate about.
My little space to rant, rave and ramble on about this and that.
Most of all, just to share my thoughts with the world!

Sunday, September 30, 2012

Jurlique Intense Recovery Mask


Hi guys!  :-h   As covered in the last review I posted, there seems to be a bit of an issue with labelling laws in our country, which is very confusing to consumers.  The next product I am going to discuss, the Jurlique Intense Recovery Mask, was sent to me by the gorgeous Tammerly from Spoilt beauty blog to trial and review. (the link can be found here)   :)  Jurlique is another company who markets their products as ‘natural’, based on the fact that their formulations contain ‘mostly’ or ‘almost’ all natural ingredients.  :-/  However, a quick glance at the ingredient list implies otherwise!  :-O  Amidst the impressive array of essential oils, flowers, herbs, vitamins and antioxidants are a few known nasties, such as irritants and toxins.  :(  The Jurlique Intense Recovery Mask is a ‘feel good’ mask with a green kaolin clay base that maintains balance by regulating sebum production, smoothing dry patches and helping to purify, nourish, soothe and heal the skin.  The inclusion of antioxidant power protects against damaging free radicals, Vitamins A & E reduces the visible signs of premature skin ageing and the blend of potent oils provides a deep-pore cleanse to draw out impurities and bacteria.

The mask comes in an outer cardboard sleeve with a simple design, reflecting the Jurlique range, while the inner packaging is not what I would describe as visually appealing.  The cream coloured tube is available in a small 40ml size as well as a larger 125ml option, sealed with a dark grey lid and is printed with grey text that displays the size and weight, along with the brand and product name on the front, which consorts with a brief blurb about the mask, directions for use and the company details on the back.

The consistency of the mask felt very liquid and runny when I shook the tube before opening, yet surprisingly, the dirty-green coloured formula boasts a thick, creamy texture that spreads easily over my skin.  :">  The herbal scent reminds me of citrus fruit, possibly associated with the grapefruit extract listed toward the bottom of the ingredient list.  It is quite pungent though and could be a problem for those with fragrance sensitivities or anyone who doesn’t like strongly perfumed skin care, but I think the aroma is refreshing and uplifts my senses.  \:D/  Squeezing out a blob of product, about the size of a 10 cent coin and using my fingers, I apply a thin layer of the cool, moist treatment evenly over my face and kick back for 10 minutes prior to rinsing it off.  I-)  During this time, the mask dries out, but my face still remains comfortable.  ;)  Unlike other clay masks I’ve used, this one doesn’t harden to the point where any facial movement will cause it to crack or crumble, instead it creates a subtle tightening sensation that is none other than utterly relaxing.  8->  Afterward, I use a warm face washer to emulsify the dry mask, then rinse off the residue with water.  My skin immediately feels soft, smooth and nourished and looks plump, firm and calm with a noticeable reduction in the size and appearance of my pores.  =D>

The Jurlique Intense Recovery Mask is the perfect mask for a pamper session or DIY facial because it feels good and provides an instant boost for problem skin.  It’s non-irritating and hasn’t upset my sensitive skin, rather the soothing properties gently nurture any discomfort and diminish the redness and inflammation of blemishes for a calmer, more evenly toned complexion.  It effectively controls excess oil and draws gunk from my pores to eliminate congestion, without drying my skin or stripping its essential moisture.  <:-P  Although, I’ve been using this mask for a month and can’t see any visible anti-ageing improvements, such as softening of fine lines and wrinkles, the temporary results are clearly evident.   I think it will make a great ‘quick-fix’ to refine my complexion during the warmer months when my skin usually becomes overly oily, greasy and congested.  Unfortunately, the price of the mask is excessive, retailing at nearly $100 for a full-sized tube, which is above and beyond the price I would expect to pay for a top shelf, professional skin care mask and to be honest; this natural based product just doesn’t deliver with outstanding visible results that could warrant such a costly price tag.  /:) Because of these factors I am only rating this mask with 3.5 stars out of 5.  
(*)  (*)  (*)  & ½  (*)  This particular mask might attract those who prefer natural ingredients and want to indulge in a revitalising experience that quickly transforms their complexion.  Personally, due to the price and the limited long-term recovery capabilities, I wouldn’t repurchase it myself.  #-o

TIP -  *-:)  This mask is perfect to use as a spot treatment on individual blemishes.

Have you tried this mask of any of the other products from the Jurlique range?  :-?   How do you feel about products that claim to be all natural or have missleading names, when you've found out the info isn't exactly true?  Feel free to comment below.  B-)



The images in this post are generic.    

Sukin Facial Moisturiser


Howdy my friends!  :-h   I’m rather fond of natural skin care products, which based on my own experience, I’ve discovered can be equally effective as many commercial and professional brands, it just depends on the right blend of ingredients and how they respond to individual skin types.  I’m sure you’re all aware though, of the labelling issues, where brands that are named ‘natural’ and ‘organic’, yet you’d be lucky to find even a fraction of natural ingredients in their products.  :-O   It pretty much comes down to research and always checking the labels and ingredients lists first.  Whilst we all know it’s safe to say that actual ‘certified’ organic brands must follow strict international standards and ARE completely free of synthetics and toxins.  However, many ‘certified’ organic brands are ridiculously expensive, understandably so, considering they cost heaps more to develop, but that’s not to say their aren’t some pretty decent natural and botanical brands out there, which aren’t ‘certified’ as such, hence are also more affordable.  ;)  Natural and botanical brands are still committed to producing safe, natural, affordable skin care products, using only pure ingredients and are free of .harsh chemicals, so they are more appealing to consumers who prefer to avoid nasties where possible.  :D

Tammerly the talented author of Spoilt beauty blog sent me out the Sukin Facial Moisturiser to trial and review for her blog.  The review is linked to her site here.  Sukin is an Australian, environmentally friendly natural skin care brand that is a bit confusing at first glance, due to their website, ‘sukinorganics’ giving the impression of an ‘organic’ product range.  :-/  Don’t let the name fool you; Sukin is NOT certified’ organic,   :-S   yet it’s a brand that IS void of artificial and synthetic ingredients, parabens, mineral oils and other nasty chemicals.  :">  The Sukin line-up contains lots of skin friendly, natural ingredients, formulated with active botanicals and essential oils.  Sukin Facial Moisturiser is deeply hydrating and enriched with a cocktail of botanical extracts like Aloe Vera, Horsetail, Nettle and Burdock for their skin calming benefits, rose hip that is rich in antioxidants and boasts healing properties, along with Wheat Germ, Jojoba and Avocado Oils, harmonising to promote a healthy, youthful, more radiant complexion.  :)

The moisturiser is packaged in an environmentally friendly, recyclable, amber coloured, 125ml pump-action bottle.  The label is simple and boasts a green leaf and carbon neutral product symbol that is recognisable across the entire Sukin range.  I like that I can see through the plastic bottle to determine the content level and the pump is easy to control, allowing me to dispense as much or as little product as needed, depending on how much pressure I apply during the press.  Unfortunately the bottle is not suitable for travelling, because even though the pump can be twisted into a lock position and that is only after a full pump, while pressed right down against the lid (that in my opinion is quite wasteful if you don’t need a full pump prior to locking) it’s still not particularly travel friendly, with the possibility that it could easily become open and leak or spill during transit.  #-o

The texture of this moisturiser is like a velvety cream and is white in colour with a thin consistency that I would describe as being more of a lightweight, lotion than a cream.  The distinct, sweet herbal scent was first thing I noticed when I used this cream for the first time and I was worried that it would trigger my fragrance sensitivity, as I normally avoid using products that are too scented on my face, even when they are natural.  :-S   Fortunately the fragrance disappears soon after applying, so I needn’t have worried and in fact the fragrance has since grown on me and I now look forward to experiencing the effects of the relaxing, uplifting aroma as it stimulates my senses for an overall feeling of wellbeing.   \:D/  I gently massage a pea-sized amount of moisturiser onto my face and neck, which then absorbs instantly without trace of sticky residue.  The non-greasy formula leaves my skin feel smooth, soft and comfortable, making it a great base to use under makeup.  ;;)

I have oily skin that is fussy when it comes to moisturisers because they wind up being too rich or heavy and end up making my face all greasy within hours of application.  Even moisturisers that claim to be matte or are formulated especially for oily skin can cause issues, so finding a suitable daily moisturiser has always been a dilemma.  The Sukin Facial Moisturiser delivers and maintains efficient hydration so my skin is nourished and yet doesn’t develop into an oily surface film that turns my face all shiny during the day.  <:-P   I must say this was a pleasant surprise, although I’m yet to put it to the test during a humid, summer day, I am thrilled with its performance so far.  I’ve not suffered any adverse reactions from the natural ingredients and it hasn't caused any congestion or breakouts.  In fact, my skin has continued to remain clear and calm and I’m now sporting a healthy-looking glow rather than the pesky oil slick I previously had to contend with.   =D>  I am rating this moisturiser with 3.5 stars out of 5,   (*)  (*)  (*)  & ½  (*)  because, in addition to the minor cons I’ve already mentioned, I usually prefer my daytime moisturiser to also include some form of sun protection, but hey, for under $10 you can’t expect to have it all.  The price is a complete steal and I have not seen a natural brand as cheap as this anywhere before.  It’s a safe, affordable option for those who want to get on-board the more natural skin care bandwagon but can’t justify the expensive of buying ‘certified’ brands.   :)   I would consider purchasing the Sukin Facial Moisturiser in the future, as it complements my oily skin and I’m happy enough with the immediate results.

Has anyone tried Sukin before, if so what are your thoughts?  Have you ever felt cheated when purchasing a brand or product that you expected was ALL natural or organic, because of the confusion created by our relaxed labelling laws?  :-?  I know I have, several times in fact, until I learnt how to check ingredients and understand a bit more about certification.  I am not in any way a brand snob and have used several natural and botanical products that have been amazing, even though they were not certified.  Can you think of any brands that are misleading by their names or claims, list them in the comments section below? 


The images in this post are generic.

NIVEA for Men Sensitive Range


Hi guys and gals  :-h  These products were sent to me by by Beauty Heaven to share with a mature male, who did the actual test drive (bar 1 product that I had a go of as well SHH!:-$  ;))  and then filled me in on the experience so I could write up the trial team reviews based on a Male perspective.  o->



The Nivea for Men Sensitive Face Wash comes in a 100ml compact, plastic squeezable tube with a flip-top lid that also acts as the base.  The design is easily distinguished as Nivea for Men, boasting the renowned simple navy blue and white logo, printed on a partially translucent background, allowing the user to see the solution and determine the content level.  Despite claims this product is fragrance-free, after dispensing it from the tube, I noticed an ever so slight plasticy-type scent,  :-S  however once transferred to the skin, I couldn’t smell it anymore.  :">

The face wash itself is a clear, almost cloudy coloured gel, which is full of what appears to be tiny little air-bubbles, whilst the thick consistency has a texture similar to jelly.  I only need a small blob of cleanser, approximately the size of a 5 cent coin to wash my whole face and neck.  It is easy to apply, although it doesn’t actually lather up as the directions suggest, instead, upon contact with water and skin, it turns more milky in colour and resembles a fluid like lotion that rinses straight off with water.  This was a bonus, because even though it cleansed effectively, gently removing dirt, grime oils and impurities, it didn’t make my skin tight or feel as if it were ‘squeaky’ clean and stripped of its natural moisture.  =D>  There is no sticky, greasy debris left on the skin’s surface, but the formula is highly nourishing, so my face is left cool, calm, refreshed and completely comfortable.  In fact, my skin is adequately clean, but still more hydrated than I’ve become accustomed to after cleansing alone. 

Overall, I like how this cleanser imparts a relaxing experience and therefore is an ideal way to wash away the dirty remnants of a long, hard day.  :)>-  When used in combination with the other products from the Nivea for Men Sensitive Range, this line-up helps to eliminate the sensitivity issues I frequently suffered after or during the hair removal process.  It’s a perfect face wash to use both pre and post shaving on a daily basis, as the mild formulation delivers soothing relief as well as protecting against the onset of irritation or inflammation.  Retailing for only $7.99 and readily available at most supermarkets nationally, I would recommend this affordable cleanser for men of all ages, who just want clean, calm skin and an improved shaving experience, without the fuss or need to buy anything fancy and overpriced.  ;)



The Nivea for Men Sensitive Post Shave Balm is presented in an outer cardboard wrapper, decked out in the standard Nivea for Men design that features throughout the collection.  Inside, is a durable, opaque 100ml glass bottle, sealed with a square shaped twist-off lid and boasts the renowned simple navy blue and white logo printed on a white background.  I immediately noticed the product was quite weighty and expected to find an ultra rich, heavy formula inside.  I was surprise when I shook the bottle to discover the balm was actually very liquid, which made it easy to dispense from the bottle.  The balm, isn’t how I imagine a balm to be (think Vaseline, lol)   :))  instead, it has a silky, lotion-type texture that reminds me of thin, runny custard, although it’s white in colour.  :-/  The clean, refreshing, masculine aroma is pleasant like aftershave, but minus the sting and  it definitely appeals to the opposite sex, so expect to receive compliments when you step out of the shower and into the company of a female companion.  @};-  Nevertheless, it’s only a subtle scent and it doesn’t linger on the skin for long, so it won’t interfere with your personal fragrance choice.

A little goes a long way, so a little less than a 5-cent coin amount is ample to work into the affected areas.  The balm is super lightweight and absorbs into the skin within moments, forming a non-greasy protective barrier, which cools, calms and comforts the skin.  My face feels smooth and soft when applied post shaving and it instantly alleviates the redness, irritation and flaking dry skin I usually experience after hair removal.  It prevents discomfort and the soothing effect and hydration boost is long lasting.

This balm leaves my skin feeling energised and free from the side effects usually associated with shaving.  After using the combination of Nivea for Men Sensitive Range of products for just a few weeks, the overall condition of my skin has already improved.  Gone is the appearance of red, raw looking skin, razor burn or rashes every time I shave, now my face is just always smooth, calm and nourished, radiating a hint of vitality.  B-)  Available everywhere for a little over $10, this exceptionally cost effective Nivea for Men Sensitive Post Shave Balm should be a staple for anyone who wants to kiss the irritable symptoms of shaving goodbye,  :-*  particularly for those who dread the painstaking task due to the trauma it causes the skin.

TIP -  *-:)  It is quite runny, so you have to be careful not to pour out too much.


The Nivea for Men Sensitive Moisturiser is presented in an outer cardboard wrapper, decked out in the standard Nivea for Men design that features throughout this line-up.  Inside is a 75ml compact, plastic squeezable tube with a flip-top lid, also acting as the base.  The packaging is easily distinguished as Nivea for Men, boasting the renowned simple navy blue and white logo printed on an opaque white background.  Even though it claims to be fragrance-free, I can smell a faint artificial type scent, which I can’t really describe.  It’s not what I would consider an appealing smell,  :-S   yet it is only slight and it doesn’t linger.  :">

The luscious thick formula has a butter-like texture, which is lightweight and easy to apply, absorbing well without leaving any greasy residue on the skin.  I only need a small pea-sized amount to adequately moisturise my whole face and neck.  It’s deeply hydrating and quickly nourishes my face, whilst helping to diminish dryness and flaky skin, providing prompt effective relief to any redness or irritation.  The benefit of UV filters makes this a great day time moisturiser to use on the days in between shaving, because it protects my skin against further sun damage and premature ageing.  :D

This ultra gentle moisturiser is ideal when used in conjunction with the other products in the Nivea for Men Sensitive Range to keep skin calm, comfortable and free of inflammation.  Available in leading supermarkets and pharmacies nationwide, the Nivea for Men Sensitive Moisturiser retails at just over $10, a bargain price, which would suit any budget.  I would recommend it to anyone wanting a simple, fuss-free way to hydrate and care for the skin, but won’t cost you an arm and a leg to achieve optimal results.  <:-P


Before I write this review, I need to set the record straight,  :-t   despite the intended audience, this product predominately targets Men, but as far as I’m concerned, it’s definitely unisex and can be used by men and women alike,  [-X   so I’m going to include my own experience in addition to the male perspective  ;)

The Nivea for Men Sensitive Shaving Gel comes in a 200ml aerosol can with a pump-action nozzle and a clear plastic lid.  The design is easily distinguished as Nivea for Men, boasting the renowned simple navy blue and white logo, printed on an opaque white background.  The gel is a pearlescent white colour and features the same pleasant, clean, refreshing fragrance as the Nivea for Men Sensitive Post Shave Balm.  @};-

The mild formula is quite runny and resembles a silky texture similar to shampoo, more so than a gel.  It’s easy to spread onto the skin and just a small amount transforms into a rich, white, creamy lather that provides a good coverage over the surface.  It allows the razor to glide effortlessly over my skin, cutting through all the hair in a single stroke to perform a close, effective shave in minimal time.  It washes off with water and leaves my skin feeling cool, calm and completely comfortable.  Since using this product, I’ve experienced no post shave irritation, redness or razor burn and my skin is always left ultra smooth, soft and hair free.  \:D/

I would highly recommend this soothing Nivea for Men Sensitive Shaving Gel to both males and females of all ages, who shave regularly and prefer a gentle, care-free formulation that makes hair removal a breeze, whilst nurturing and protecting your skin in the process.  It eliminates the common side effects of shaving permanently, delivering performance and results every time, as well as maintaining hydration.  It costs a measly $5.99 and will last for ages, so it’s an absolute steel in terms of affordability.  For such a small investment, my days of shaving nightmares are finally behind me and I am now rewarded with skin that looks and feels great.  (*)


The Nivea for Men Sensitive Protect Roll-On comes in sturdy glass packaging with a rollerball dispenser and screw-off, plastic navy cap.  The design is easily distinguished as Nivea for Men, boasting the renowned simple navy blue and white logo printed on a white label, which is pasted on the translucent glass, allowing the user to see the product and determine the content level.  Unlike the other products I’ve trialled in the Nivea for Men Sensitive Range, this colour scheme has more silver accents that makes it look rather snazzy.  The formula is white in colour, however it applies clear on the skin.  It has a delicate, masculine fragrance that is a crisp, refreshing scent and not at all overpowering.

It dries within seconds and doesn’t leave any sticky residue.  The alcohol free blend is super gentle and doesn’t create any sensitivity issues.  In fact it feels cool and soothing when applied and I remained dry and comfortable for at least half a day.  In terms of effectiveness in protecting against perspiration, I find the 24 hour claims way too far fetched,  #-o  because on a hot tropical day, whilst engaging in physical activity, I was kept dry and smelling sweet for about 4 – 5 hours, before I felt the need to re-apply to avoid developing body odour and wetness.  :-O   It does last a bit longer if I stay inside and don’t over exert myself at all, but there is no way I can confirm it lasts a full 24 hours.  :|

Despite the fact it’s not really long lasting, it’s still a decent deodorant and it is ideal for those who need to avoid irritating products that exasperate their sensitive skin conditions.  I personally wouldn’t buy this for myself in future as I prefer a spray-on deodorant, but I was impressed enough to consider trying the Nivea for Men Sensitive Protect Aerosol.  >:/


Have you or any of the men in your lives tried this range of products….or does he even use any skin care products?  :-?



The images in this post are all generic.

theBalm Liquid TimeBalm Spot Concealer


Hey there beauties  :-h   I’m back in full force ATM, LOL   :))  (well as forceful as I can be during this long slow process of needing a replacement PC)   8-|  Anyway, I’m not about to let that rain on my parade, hehe  ;))  As the saying goes the show must go on,  \:D/ so I’ll keep on plugging on and make the most of my resources  as I slowly but surely get through publishing my growing backlog of product reviews!  B-) 

It goes without saying that when you have a red, angry bump on your face there is some urgency to make it disappear, whilst effectively disguising it in the meantime to avoid feeling self-conscious.  :">  Most OTC (over the counter) topical skin care treatments that target pimples basically dry out and strip the skin of its oils, which then will produce even more oil to compensate for the loss, exacerbating the condition and causing more breakouts than before.  :-O   Likewise, applying too much makeup or cosmetic solutions designed to cover-up flaws can look obvious and accentuate the problem; in addition it can lead to clogged pores, making the blemishes worse.  ~X(  What would be the best way to overcome this dilemma?  Simple, how about a less invasive spot remedy that is free of nasty chemicals and is instead, infused with natural skin purifying, bacteria fighting ingredients, such as tea tree oil and an array of vitamins, all formulated into a tinted liquid base that soothes problem skin and camouflages redness to help achieve a clear, healthy-looking complexion, free of imperfections.    O:-)  Enter theBalm Liquid TimeBalm Spot Concealer.  This product was sent to me by Tammerly from Spoilt to try out and review for her beauty blog, which you can find linked here.  :)  Here are my thoughts:

The outer cardboard packaging of theBalm Liquid TimeBalm Spot Concealer is green in colour with white print, which to me is a reflection of the toxic-free, more natural formulation and is pleasantly appealing to the eye.  The inner tube features the same colour scheme, is 10gms in size and is similar in appearance to a lipgloss with a twist off lid attached to a long stem that has a foam tip to serve as the applicator.  The convenient packaging makes it ideal to pop in my handbag and use for touch-ups on the go.  ;)

The liquid itself has a medicinal-type, scent that smells noticeably of the included tea tree oil, but it’s not at all offensive and fades soon after applied.  :">  With a lightweight, creamy texture and a medium to thick consistency, it blends smoothly to even out my skin tone.  Surprisingly, this formula is well pigmented, providing exceptional opaque coverage that hides all my unsightly flaws, including zits, surface veins and facial redness, along with under eye bags.  ;;)  The formula is non-drying and non-greasy, yet nourishing to the skin, calming inflammation and irritation, protecting against damaging environmental aggressors and treating problem areas rapidly.  I have the Honey shade, which is a perfect match for my skin tone, creating a soft, flawless finish that looks perfectly natural. The staying power is brilliant, with no fading, flaking during the day, however I like to apply regular touch-ups on newly formed blemishes, to help fast-track their lifespan and despite adorning several layers, my skin doesn’t have a pasty, caked on appearance.  <:-P
Honey, one if three available shades.

Overall, theBalm Liquid TimeBalm Spot Concealer is a full function skin care product and complexion perfecting makeup all rolled into one.  =D>  Unlike other zit zappers I’ve tried, which are harsh and dry out my skin, or concealers that cause congestion and trigger more breakouts, this dual performance pimple elixir has a powerful moisturising formula that is loaded with skin nurturing goodness that accelerates the natural healing and repairing process, whilst optimal coverage effectively improves the unsightly appearance and ensures my imperfections remain unnoticeable.  :D  It’s not a miracle worker, so fully blown bumps won’t be magically cured with a single dab; however, it effectively promotes recovery and gives me confidence and peace of mind to face the world knowing my complexion is unblemished and fabulous.  :x   I am loving the full effect of theBalm Liquid TimeBalm Spot Concealer and am awarding it with 5 stars out of 5,   (*)  (*)  (*)  (*)  (*)  it’s my new Holy Grail concealing spot treatment that I seriously can not fault.  Exceptional!!!  :-*

Tip -   *-:)  It’s is wise to consider the ‘less is more’ approach when using this concealer, because you only need the tiniest amount for effective results.  


Have you found the perfect zit solution, one that conceals and heals?  How do you normally hide those unsightly spots without making them get worse?
The images in this post are all generic.

Clinique Deep Comfort Body Butter


Hello, hello!  :-h  This time I’m on the topic of body butters!  I don’t know about you all, but I simply love love love  :x  :x  :x  a rich, luxurious, deeply nourishing body butter slathered all over my bod, from my neck down to my tootsies, as a special pampering treat after showering.  There is something especially satisfying about massaging my body with an intensive, decadently creamy, all over moisturiser that melts upon contact and leaves my skin feeling amazingly smooth, soft and entirely conditioned. Ahh pure bliss!  ;;)  I was offered the Clinique Deep Comfort Body Butter to test drive and review by Tammerly from Spoilt beauty blog (linked here) and these are my thoughts based on the experience.  :)

Travel sized tube.
I received the Clinique Deep Comfort Body Butter in a 75ml travel sized tube, rather than the standard 200ml tub it’s normally presented in, so I’m not going to comment on the packaging as such.  I will describe the front label, though, which resembles the original and identifies as ‘typicallyClinique, with a simple arrangement of bold text displaying the brand name, along with the product title, printed in both English and French.  The ultra rich, thickly textured body cream has a whipped butter-like consistency that is an off-white colour or if I dare say, a pale yellow/light lemon shade.  It bestows very little fragrance; in fact the neutral scent is so subtle that I can barely smell anything at all, even when it’s directly under my nose.  :-<  While the nourishing formula is heavy and takes some time to absorb, I only need a small amount to adequately moisturise my whole body, hence a little goes a long way.  Thankfully, the full-bodied cream doesn’t create a greasy, sticky surface residual; instead, it soaks right in and my skin is immediately left silky smooth, soft, supple and intensely hydrated.  ;)

I have been applying this indulgent body butter on my sensitive skin, all over, every night, directly after showering and while still slightly damp.  The result is pure, calming relief, as it targets itchy, flaky areas and general dryness, nurturing and soothing my skin, alleviating redness and inflammation.  =D>  During this trial, I’ve truly experienced the remedial comfort this cream provides, determining the gentle emollient works wonders as a post hair removal treatment, allowing me to avoid the side effects I usually develop after shaving, such as angry, red skin.  Slathering the cream on afterward helps my skin to recover quickly, locking in long-lasting moisture and preventing the discomfort and irritability associated with shaving and hair removal.  <:-P

Full sized tub.
Although I think this body cream is effective and suitable for anyone who desires a deeply hydrating, formulation that is non-irritating and kind to skin, I believe it has a few cons to point out as well.  :-/  Despite my sensitive skin issues and the need to avoid artificial fragrances, I do have a weakness for deliciously scented body products, especially when they boast delectable, all-natural aromas, so I tend to find unscented lotions, like this one, dull and boring.  (:|  I also would prefer a moisturiser infused with sunscreen properties of at least SPF 15 or more to meet my daytime skin care needs, should I wish to use this in the morning as well; therefore, I’m only using it at night when I don’t require any additional UV protection.  B-)  Finally, it is on the expensive side  :-O  and I personally believe there are cheaper alternatives, which are equally good, if not better and delivering more benefits than just skin softening at a fraction of the price.  $-) I do like the therapeutic effect I’ve managed to achieve when using the Clinique Deep Comfort Body Butter and will continue enjoying this tube; however, I wouldn’t consider spending in excess of $50 to repurchase it again in the future.  /:)

Based on the pros and the cons, I am rating the Clinique Deep Comfort Body Butter with 3.5 Stars out 5,  (*)  (*)  (*)  & ½  (*) deducting ½ a star for each of the three negatives points I mentioned.

Do you like body butters too? What is your favourite?  Can you suggest a really good one worth trying that won’t cost an arm and a leg?.....and oh, it has to smell delectable too!  @};-


The images used in this post are generic.

Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Eventone Age Spot Hand Cream


Hi peeps, :-h  long time no see, I’m back to catch up on a few reviews from my backlog, hope you enjoy!  :D  I never use to pay much attention to my hands, but since I’ve gotten older they have really been giving me curry.  ~X(  They have become heaps drier and because I never bothered to use a hand cream or apply sunscreen to my hands, the neglect is clearly evident.  #-o  They are showing signs of ageing and particularly age spots and sun damage are at the forefront.  EEK!  :-S   These days, I now religiously apply hand cream daily and if I can invest in one that has SPF included that is definitely a bonus, but now thanks to the variety of options available on the market, I have the option of using a hand cream that also helps reverse the signs of premature ageing and repair existing damage.  :">  When Tammerly from Spoilt beauty blog sent me the Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Eventone Age Spot Hand Cream to trial and review, I was keen to give it a whirl.  @-)

The Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Eventone Age Spot Hand Cream is presented in a cardboard outer packaging, featuring the recognisable Palmers logo and colour scheme, which is standard across their range.   Inside the box is a 60gm tube with a flip-top lid that also serves as the base of the tube, to stand it upright.  The ultra thick, white cream feels decadent and conditioning on my hands, however the white lily fragrance, which smells quite pleasant to begin with is way too strong and overbearing, to the point where it really makes me feel like washing it off.  :-&  The artificial scent tends to trigger my fragrance sensitivity and often induces headaches.  :( Despite the smell, I persisted with my trial for the duration of a month, to give it time to work and determine if it would deliver a more uniform skin tone and reduce the appearance of age spots and discolouration.  :-w

Whilst the cream was indeed moisturising, because it is so rich and heavy, it doesn’t absorb too well and I could still feel the tacky remnants on my hands up to an hour after the initial application.  Due to this, I preferred to use the cream at night, where it wouldn’t interfere with my day to day tasks and would better penetrate my skin to address my skin concerns.  Needless to say, one month on and I can’t say that I am noticing any obvious improvement in the appearance of my skin, therefore at this point, I don’t believe the product lives up to it’s claims of targeting the visible signs of prematurely aged hands.  :-/

I love that the Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Eventone Age Spot Hand Cream contains vitamin E to nourish my skin and sunscreen to protect my hands from getting burnt and after massaging it into my hands before bed on a nightly basis, I did find that by morning my skin was indeed sufficiently hydrated and feeling soft and supple to touch.  :)  Because I found the perfume too overwhelming, I personally wouldn’t buy this hand cream again, however the floral  @};-  scent might appeal to those with different taste, who would be willing to continue using it for a longer period to possibly achieve better results.  :-??  Otherwise, for the price it’s a great treat for dry hands, providing a nourishing glove over the skin to seal in moisture and protect against future damage.  ;)

Based on my experience, I am rating this hand cream with 3 stars out of 5,
(*)  (*)  (*)  the smell wasn’t for me and it didn’t live up to my expectations in terms of repairing my ageing, sun damaged hands.

Have you used any products from this brand and if so what are your thoughts?  :-?  I have found several items in the line-up just too fragranced for my liking, yet have heard others rave about how much they love the smell.  Do you know of a decent anti-ageing hand cream that gives effective results, but is not too smelly or thick for daily use? What do you look for in a hand cream?  Feel free to comment below.   :-*


The image in this post is generic.