The Balm timeBalm Foundation

Hello again peeps!  This review is based on one of my favourite subjects – foundation (yes, I've always loved using foundations and trying out different formula’s and new brands).  When Tammerly from Spoilt asked me to trial and review this foundation for her website, I couldn’t wait to 'slap' it on! Read on for my thoughts, or click here for the initial published version.

The Balm timeBalm Foundation is a solid cream foundation, free of parabens and enriched with rejuvenating, anti-ageing ingredients like antioxidants and an array of vitamins, which is considered 'makeup with skin care benefits', whilst it irons out imperfections and creates a flawless, long-lasting  finish.  Suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive.

The foundation is wrapped in a cardboard outer box that has a very simple blue, yellow and grey colour scheme, scattered with faint stars and product information, but the presentation is quite dull in comparison to the majority of their colourful, entertaining, retro-style packaging.  The inner compact-sized container looks cheap and a bit tacky, made of clear, rather brittle plastic, with a screw off lid (that will break in a flash if accidentally dropped).  I was somewhat surprised after my previous experience with this quality brand to find their foundation housed in something resembling that of a budget, no-frills cosmetic brand.  The compact has no mirror and the sponge is too flimsy, so it was essential to use my own applicator, so based on the whole packaging concept, I wouldn’t consider this product to be very travel friendly and not ideal to pop in my bag and use on the go.

The foundation has a slightly dry, stiff surface texture, however it amazingly transforms into a smooth, creamy consistency once it begins getting worked.  It has a subtle herbal-type scent, which isn’t offensive or noticeable after application.  Providing a generous coverage that is highly pigmented and super buildable, it blends evenly and there is no streaking, flaking or a caked on appearance.  Because of the weightless, moisturising, noncomedogenic formula, my skin was able to breathe instead of feeling suffocated and it provided adequate hydration throughout the day, without causing excess oil or greasiness.  I received this foundation in the shade medium, which appears to have yellow undertones, which I do prefer, particularly when, like in this case, it is a perfect match for my own natural colouring.  It gives my face a uniform colour and discretely conceals any noticeable flaws for a polished, healthy-looking, finish that stays in place with decent longevity, only requiring minimal maintenance throughout the day.  Because my skin is so oily and this foundation doesn’t exactly eliminate excess oil, I still wind up with a bit of shine, so a quick touch-up to blot away any surface shine will help to refresh the look.  

Both the inner and outer packaging.

Despite having such poor, dodgy packaging, the quality of this skin-loving foundation is kind and super effective when it comes to my oily and sometimes sensitive skin.  The gentle formulation hasn’t triggered any irritation or breakouts and I am almost certain that my skin has improved slightly during the time I’ve been using it..  With buildable coverage that conditions and transforms my complexion to skin perfection within moments, it layers and blends over any areas that need extra support, yet never settles into fine lines and pores, nor does it start flaking and looking crepey.  Since having deemed the included sponge useless, I’ve tried various application methods, but I achieve the best results using a synthetic foundation brush.  I’ve used it alone and with a pre-foundation primer, however I prefer the overall product performance when I prep and prime my skin first, then follow up with a light dusting of translucent powder to set the finished look.  I guess the retail price is quite expensive as far as foundations go, however considering it’s infused with nurturing, caring skin-friendly ingredients and there is actually quite a decent amount of product in the pot, which I also expect will last for ages, it’s not really that unreasonable.  Personally, I would be prepared to splurge on the cost of The Balm timeBalm Foundation for myself and I would confidently recommend it to anyone who is looking for a suitable foundation that’s flattering, comfortable and long wearing to help achieve/deliver a fresh, dewy, naturally flawless appearance.

TIP Can be layered if needed, to dab on any extra problem blemishes or under eye circles.

Have you tried this foundation or any of the other products from this brand?  What do you think, sound like something you would be keen to try or....??  Let us know your thoughts by commenting below. xx oo

The images in this post are generic.

Australis 4-1 Conceal Correct

Hello beauty lovers!  :-h  This post is a review of a multi-tone concealer, released by a well-known Australian cosmetic brand recently.  Tammerly the brains and beauty behind Spoilt blog, provided it to me for a test drive, so I could share my thoughts with you all.  :-@

The multi-tasking Australis 4-1 Conceal Correct is a round palette consisting of 4 different shades of concealer to disguise imperfections, including redness, dark circles, blemishes and uneven skin tone for a flawless complexion.  :)

The compact palette comes in a small cardboard box boasting the black and bright pink colouring recognisable throughout the Australis range.  It also features three coloured panels on the top and both sides, all of which share product tips, such as purple fades away dark circles, green covers up redness and flesh tones to use over the colour correctors to camouflage imperfections.  The tiny round black plastic palette with a flip-top lid has dual levels, with two shades each and a handy mirror for touch-ups on the go.  ;)

The correctors and concealers have a lightweight, rich, creamy formula that is soft, smooth and easy to apply and provides a medium to light coverage, depending on which shade I use.  The purple is the lightest and needs to be carefully layered to effectively hide any dark areas under my eyes,  (:|  however it even does double duty as a makeshift highlighter for my cheekbones, inner eye corners and cupids bow etc.  ;;)  The green works well at covering up any facial redness,  :">  which is mostly around my nose and inner cheeks, but is exceptionally good for hiding noticeable red pimples,  #:-S   whilst the light and dark skin toned shades blend over the green and purple to even out my complexion.  Unfortunately, even though the coverage was good, the darkest flesh tone shade was too dark for my colouring and the paler one was too orange-y, so I couldn’t achieve a very natural-looking finish.  :-S   I also find that too much layering causes the concealer to appear cakey, crease and settle into fine lines, so I can conclude that using less is definitely best.  The staying powder is not ideal for my oily skin because it gets a bit greasy after a few hours and I generally need to keep touching it up during the day, causing it to look even more caked on.  :-O  The formula might be more workable for me during the cooler months, when it’s less likely to slip and slide off my face as much.

Overall, this is a cute and thoughtful palette that includes everything you need to achieve complexion perfection in the one compact little case.  =D>  It does subtly hide my flaws, but it generally takes a bit of work to make sure the finished effect looks natural and not overdone.  I get more use out of the green and purple shades over the two flesh toned colours, that are too overwhelming for my own natural skin tone and seem to have too much of an orange tinge.  I would prefer the flesh toned colours to be more universally flattering for a wider range of complexions, but as is they might be a more suitable shade match for those with warmer undertones.  The Australis 4-1 Conceal Correct is so useful because it has all the shades necessary for basic correcting and concealing abilities, in one, easy to use set, which is also the perfect travel companion.  It adequately covers minor imperfections, like pimples and problem areas of redness, including broken capillaries, but if you want something that has fuller coverage and better performance, this is probably not going to appeal to you.  Considering it retails for only $12.95, this multi-tasking concealing palette might meet the needs of those with normal to dry skin who have a warm, buttery skin tone, because it certainly won’t break the bank and is a versatile addition to any makeup kit.  <:-P

Tip –  *-:)  While I don’t mind applying it with my fingers, a slightly damp concealing brush helps blend these shades into my skin more evenly.

Rating – 3 out of 5 (Published for Spoilt. Click here to view)

What do you think?  :-?  Does this type of concealer with multiple shades appeal to you?  Have you found a reliable concealer that looks natural?  :-/  If so please fill me in, would love to hear what works for others when it comes to concealers….

The images in this post are generic.

Covergirl + Olay Pressed Powder

Hey, hey, peeps, I’m baaack!!  :-h  My next review is for a product that was formulated by a duo of highly popular beauty brands that amalgamated to produce their own skin care orientated makeup line-up (which seems to be all the rage these days).  B-)  I have used both brands over the years but never combined (despite having heard about it for a while now   #-o  ), so I must admit, when Tammerly from Spoilt blog offered me the chance of a trial, I was keen to oblige.   Here’s my feedback or you can click here to check it out on Spoilt!  :D

Covergirl and Olay unite to present a tinted pressed powder that covers imperfections and brightens the skin tone. The built-in smooth-glide serum ensures the finish isn’t heavy or cakey.  =D>

The Covergirl + Olay Pressed Powder comes in a sleek, dark purple, mirrored compact, accented with silver for a stylish presentation.  The sturdy compact is elegant and the only let down is the quality of the powder puff, which is pretty weak and flimsy.  :-S

The weightless, non drying formula is smooth and slightly creamy, due to the included serum, as apposed to being dry or chalky like other powders I’ve used.  #:-S   I have the shade 350 Medium, which provides exceptional coverage and is an ideal colour match, suiting my skin tone perfectly.  ;;)  The silky powder glides on with ease and controls any excess oil without clogging my pores or causing congestion.  I press the powder over my foundation using a velour puff and then buff with my kabuki brush.  The velvety finish is luminous but not glittery, so it’s ideal for mature skin.  ;)  The staying power is brilliant and it remains fresh and shine-free all day, but doesn’t settle into lines or accentuate my pores.   It’s comfortable to wear and if I do need the odd touch up occasionally, mostly during the hotter summer months, it works like magic to transform and revive my complexion for a smooth, polished finish that never looks caked on.  After using this powder daily for the past few weeks, I can thankfully say it doesn’t upset my sensitive skin or cause breakouts.  <:-P

Shade 350 - Medium

I have oily skin so I always need to use a powder to set my foundation, although I usually opt for the translucent variety.  I’ve used Covergirl powders in the past, as they are always affordable and available everywhere, yet I’ve never found one that is better than average…until now!  It must be care of the Olay partnership, because this is definitely the best budget powder that I’ve used in terms of performance, durability and results.  =D>  The soft, satin-like powder looks and feels great, while helping me achieve a healthy, natural, radiant-looking complexion that is absolutely flawless without looking made-up.  :x   I am so impressed with the long lasting wear of this lightweight powder and how good it keeps my skin looking, even after a long humid day.  If you consider yourself a bit of a ‘powder snob’ and can’t get past the ashy, chalky results of most finishing powders, then I encourage you to try the Covergirl + Olay Pressed Powder because you will be pleasantly surprised.  \:D/  It will perfect your look by evening out your skin tone, setting your makeup and reducing shine, so your face appears smooth and refined with a lovely, radiant glow.  :)

So have you tried any of the products made by the two brands combined??    :-/  Or maybe you are just loyal to one brand or another, I know Olay has been around since I was a kid and I remember my mother using it back in the day when they made a cream called Oil of Ulan, ROFL!   =))   Seriously though, what do you think?   :-?  Please comment with your experience or any thoughts.  xx   :-*

The images in this post are generic. 

Covergirl Clump Crusher by Lash Blast Mascara

Hello beauties  :-h  I’m back to do another update and upload some more posts that I’ve been meaning to publish. This next review is for a mascara that was sent to me by Tammerly, author of the lifestyle, fashion and beauty blog Spoilt.  The following is a recollection of my product experience along with my shared thoughts.  :)  You can also check out my review over on Spoilt by clicking here.

The Covergirl Clump Crusher by Lash Blast Mascara, with a curved slimline wand, promises to deliver 200% more volume with no clumps for beautifully, separated lashes.  ;;)

The first thing to catch my attention when I saw this mascara was the loud, green blister pack style packaging, housing a bulky, 13.1 ml plastic tube and a wand, both in the same brilliant green colour.   @-)  It’s typically Covergirl in design and screams Lash Blast all over.  Not sure if green is my kind of colour, but there is no doubt, it will be quick and easy to find in my makeup bag.  ;) The plastic applicator brush is curved with super fine bristles positioned close together and tapering into an ultra fine tip. This allows for easy manoeuvrability from root to tip, ensuring each individual lash, regardless of how sparse, is completely separated and coated in mascara, even in the inner corners.  The slimline wand is lightweight, but has sturdy cap that is comfortable to hold.  :D

The buildable, clump resisting formula is not wet and runny, hence no drying time, instead its drier with a smooth, silky consistency, ideal for layering.  =D>  In fact, I need two or three coats to create perfect soft, volumous lashes, which feel lightweight, flexible and look so ala-natural, while remaining totally clump-free.  I have this mascara in shade number 810, Black Brown, a rich, bold colour that is not OTT and suitable for daytime wear.  The finish is long-wearing and my lashes stay looking fresh all day long, minus any fading, smudging, running or flaking; therefore no dreaded panda eyes.  #:-S   It is free of fragrance, so it doesn’t cause irritation to my sensitive eyes and it’s easy to take off with a simple everyday eye makeup remover.  <:-P

I love this as my go-to mascara for use on a day to day basis, because it defines my lashes, making them visibly plumper and longer.  :x   If it’s drama you’re after, then this is probably not your best option, as despite being able to apply several layers successfully, instead of creating a bold ‘va-va-voom’ effect for a night on the town, too many layers will eventually leave your lashes feeling heavy, crunchy and flaky.  :-O   But if you are in need of a decent and ‘oh so affordable’ daily mascara, to add a desirable fullness and length for flutter worthy lashes that make your eyes pop, then the Covergirl Clump Crusher by Lash Blast Mascara is exactly what you need.  It beautifully fans out my lashes for a soft, subtle everyday look and I wouldn’t hesitate to repurchase it, especially for the price (the RRP is $17.95) availability (can get it just about anywhere) and super effective results.   \:D/

Are you a Covergirl mascara kind of girl??   :-?  What type of mascara do you prefer - one that creates the ultimate drama effect or would you rather the soft and natural look?   :-/  Please comment if this sounds appealing to you, or if you have something better to recommend.  

The images in this post are generic.

Australis Curve Ink Eyeliner

Hi friends everywhere!  :-h   The next post is about a trendy new eyeliner from a popular Australian cosmetic company.  I was sent this product from Tammerly to trial and review for her lifestyle, fashion and beauty blog Spoilt.  Read on to find out about my experience.  \:D/

The innovative Australis Curve Ink Eyeliner is an ergonomically shaped liquid eyeliner for ease of use, precise application and most of all for maximum comfort.  Ideal for both left and right handed folk, its paraben and formaldehyde-free, claims to be water-resistant, fast-drying and smudge-proof.  :)

I received the Australis Curve Ink Eyeliner attached to a fold-out cardboard that includes product information, including features, benefits, availability and an instructional guide to achieve the trendy cat-eyed look.  The 9gm plastic packaging is black and bright pink, reflective of the Australis brand, which presents as modern and chic.  B-) The applicator has a curved handle that fits comfortably in my hand and boasts a grip zone to place my fingers on to ensure the ultimate in control.  =D>

The Australis Curve Ink Eyeliner has an ultra-fine, pointy, felt pen-style tip is firm and easy to apply.  The fluid-like formulation is not as runny as most liquid liners and therefore glides on smoothly and dries almost instantly without running or feathering and stays put for hours before it starts gradually fading into more of a grey shade.  The colour is a very intense black and I only needed the one coat to achieve a thin solid line, but it also layers well if I want to create a thicker, more defined line.  I am pretty sure black is the only shade that it comes in at this stage, but I would definitely be keen to see it available in a greater selection of colours further down the track.  ;)  The only downfall in these felt tipped liners is they do dry out faster than other liquid liners, but considering this product is available in Priceline, or via Australis Cosmetics online for just $14.95, it’s affordable to replace when needed. 

The packaging, including how-to guide.

I am a bit awkward when it comes to applying liquid eyeliner,   #-o   so normally opt for the pencil varieties; however I highly recommend the Australis Curve Ink Eyeliner to those who have difficulty using regular liquid liners, or particularly if you’re a beginner.  The applicator shape allows my hand to keep steady and the finely tapered, pointy tip makes drawing straight lines easier than ever.  #:-S   I like how fast the formula sets, which is so handy during the warmer months when all my makeup wants to slide off and head south just as quickly as I apply it.  :-O   However, in this case, once it’s in place it doesn’t budge, even in the humidity, thanks to the water-resistant factor that even prevents smudging.  <:-P  My eyeliner is still in place at the end of the day, despite fading somewhat, and yet it comes off effortlessly with my cleansing oil or makeup remover.  If you want to get the hang of recreating the ‘purr-fect’ fool-proof, feline eye look, then this is one liner you will want to try.  ;;)

Tip – Use a cotton tip dipped in cleansing oil to make corrections.

Rating – 3.5 out of 5 (Published for Spoilt. Click here to view)

Have you tried this eyeliner yet?  :-/   Do you like the felt-pen style eyeliners, or do you prefer a different type of liner?  :-?  If you're worried about using liquid liners this might be a good way to learn. Interested or.....please comment below with your opinion.

The images in this post are generic.

Dermalogica AGE Smart SkinPerfect Primer SPF30

Hey beautiful peeps everywhere  :-h   Here’s another post for you to check out, quite in depth, but I was very passionate about this product and wanted everyone to know  ;)  I’m a big fan of Dermalogica and personally use several of their skin care products, so I was keen to learn about this product when I first heard about it’s upcoming launch.  I got a sent a sample sachet at time, but I was literally doing the happy dance   \:D/  when Darren from The Facial Company asked me if I was interested in test driving it and sharing the experience on my blog.  Yes please!   >:/  I was ecstatic to say the least and I think you will find my review reflects that general feeling. :D

The SkinPerfect Primer, belongs to the Dermalogica professional skin care family and has been introduced as a new addition to the widely popular AGE Smart, anti-ageing collection.  The multi-use wonder product clearly closes the gap between skin care and cosmetics.  Boasting the ability to not only prime the skin, so it’s ready for makeup application and to ensure durability, it also includes a subtle tint that promotes radiance and a more even skin tone.  Along with broad spectrum UVA and UVB sun defence and protection against free radical damage, moreover, it acts as a skin care treatment to control the signs of premature ageing, featuring a superior blend of peptides and active ingredients that combine to achieve a firmer, younger-looking complexion.  (*)

The Dermalogica AGE Smart SkinPerfect Primer SPF30 comes in a 22ml long, slimline, squeezable plastic tube with a screw-off lid and is easily recognised as an AGE Smart product by the maroon coloured stripe stamped on each item in the range.  Like all Dermalogica products, it’s mildly scented with an aromatic herbal fragrance  @};-  that is calming, non-offensive and smells nothing like a typical sunscreen product.  The ultra lightweight, silicone based formula has a velvety texture that glides on like silk to instantly transforms my appearance,  >-)  ;))  smoothing the texture, filling in lines, minimising pores and hiding minor imperfections, whilst absorbing surface oils for a non-greasy, flawless finish.  The primer is quite pigmented with a neutral, colour correcting tint that evens out and brightens my complexion and improves the overall look of my skin.  :)>-

I am thrilled to have found an anti-ageing product/primer combination that compliments my oily skin to perfection. Not to mention the fact that includes decent sun protection as well, which is a mere miracle in my eyes, with my longstanding dilemma of forever trying to find a suitable daily SPF product that doesn’t leave my skin feeling like it was suffocated by a thick greasy film, waiting to slide straight off anyway within the first few hours of the day - taking my made up face with it, NOOOOO!!!  Why Me!   :(  So, based on my own little beauty crisis (yes the joys of having oily skin – oops joys??? No let’s scrap that – it’s mostly been a fully blown nightmare, EEK!  ~X(   ) I admit, finding a product that works been a constant battle my whole life, especially adding to the fact that I live in the stinking hot tropics, which is difficult at the best of times, but even worse when the temperature rises, during summer (which I hate – did I mention I hate summer??  Well I’m sure you worked that out, but I really do coz my skin goes all crazy and my facial products turn into my worst enemy  :-<  ) but it’s a great relief to finally say that all changed this season; since introducing this new primer to my daily routine, I have gotten through the summertime blues, virtually unscathed.  #:-S

I consider this product as multi-tasking at it’s best!  =D>  After completing my usual morning skin care regime, instead of applying my usual moisturiser (generally an SPF version during for daytime wear, to avoid using yet another product) I’ve been skipping it altogether and opting for the primer in its place.  I normally wouldn’t consider neglecting the important moisturising step, as I’m very well aware that oily skin gets dehydrated too, however the powerful anti-ageing formulation has done justice, providing more than enough hydration, without feeling like a heavy mask and I love knowing that it won’t eventually just slip-slide away!  :x  By using fewer products, the lighter option has proven unbeatable and super effective during the humidity and my skin is looking better than ever!  ;;)  I never would have thought that I would be blessed enough to step out in public wearing minimal makeup, but the slight tint in the primer, along with the smooth canvas it creates, leaves my complexion uniform and perfectly polished.  :)  Now, all I do is apply a tiny bit of concealer on any noticeable imperfections, followed by a light dusting of powder and I am good to go.  :-*  Unlike other primers, this one doesn’t ball up when I layer on powdered cosmetics, nope regardless of what I use, it still works wonders and has the staying power to last all throughout the day. 

You may be disgruntled that tube is small and leans toward the expensive side,  :-S  but the key is not to use too much,  *-:)  because a little really does go a long way, with a pea-sized amount being sufficient for my whole face, using any more is not only wasteful, it could totally wreck the outcome and its intended finish.  I consider it worth every cent and fortunately I’ve found myself a new favourite primer - the dynamic, skin-loving Dermalogica AGE Smart SkinPerfect Primer SPF30 is all I need to disguise my flaws, prepare my skin and extend the life of my makeup look.  I would absolutely recommend this product to anyone, despite their age, you don’t need to have ageing skin to enjoy the numerous benefits it proffers, so don’t hesitate just give it a try, because once you’ve discovered its magic you will be singing its praises right along with me.  <:-P

Have you tried this primer or have you sussed it out and given it some thought?  :-/ Does it sound like something that would appeal to you or do you have a special primer that you already swear by?  :-?  I'd be honoured if you could fill us in on what you think and leave a comment below.  :)

The images in this post are generic.

Eye of Horus - Natural Mascara

Howdy once again guys  :-h  I’m still with you and this time I am sharing my experience with a mascara that has quickly become a firm favourite of mine and to be honest, I’ve never used a mascara that even comes close to being as perfect as this one.  :-O   So, believe me when I tell you that you will want to read on and find out why!  ;;) This product was sent to me by Darren at The Facial Company, to try out and review.

Eye of Horus is a natural eye makeup brand that has non-irritating, Paraben and Cruelty Free eye makeup for those with even the most sensitive eyes.  It’s an Australia bases brand who is committed in Awakening the Goddess in EVERY women.  (*)  The Natural Mascara is formulated in the style of ancient Egyptians, featuring plant based ingredients, natural waxes and oils to enhance the natural beauty of your lashes. 

The mascara is presented in a classy black box with gold print and the ancient Egyptian Eye of Horus symbol, based on the famous sky god, which is adorned throughout the entire product range.  The inner tube is sturdy and screams high quality, boasting the same exotic-looking colour scheme as the outer packaging.  Attached to the screw-off lid is the wand, a large, flexible brush with firm, plastic bristles that separate and define my lashes to perfection.  \:D/  The formula is thick and completely covers every single lash from root to tip with just one coat.  It’s well pigmented and produces the blackest black colour, while providing a natural clump-free finish that looks soft and natural and lasts, without fail, all day long.  Despite it not being ‘waterproof’ as such, I’ve never noticed any flaking, running or fading, so no need to fear the dreaded panda-eyes, because it seriously doesn’t budge, no matter what, stays on all day until it’s physically removed.  #:-S   I admit it can be a bit stubborn to get off,  :-S   but I’ve found that because it’s an oil based formula, a cleansing oil is the best way to get it off.  I prefer using my jojoba oil (takes off eye makeup like a rubber erases pencil) but any cleansing oil would do the trick.  :D

I use this particular mascara every day and after having tried it, I can’t imagine using anything else. It makes my lashes appear instantly longer, curlier and more voluptuous.  <:-P   If I want to plump my eyelashes up to another level, it’s easy to amp it up for a more dramatic night time effect, simply by adding additional layers, but you need to make sure each layer is dried before attempting the next.  I love how this mascara doesn’t only look fantastic; it’s actually fantastic for my lashes too.  :x   It helps with lash growth, whilst conditioning and strengthening the lash structure, meaning it’s basically a treatment mascara that cares for your lashes.  How good is that!  =D>  I have tried so many mascara’s over the years but this one is without a doubt, my holy grail.  Yep, you heard it here first, the Natural Mascara from Eye of Horus is the BEST of the BEST, and so you can forget the rest!  ;)  Seriously though, if you want a decent mascara that lives up to its claims of achieving flutter worthy lashes and would rather avoid all those nasty chemical versions, then this is absolutely the mascara for you!  I would recommend it to anyone and everyone. (Even shout about it from the rooftops if I could, hehe  ;))  )   You really must try it out! 

Company Tip -  *-:)  Prime your mascara!

The waxed based product can sometimes settle at the base of the container. If it appears dry move wand in and out slowly 3 times while still inside container, so no air gets to wand, and then bring up inside of container slowly, while twirling it around the barrel of the container. This will “prime” it.

What do you think peeps?  :-?  Does this sound like something you would be interested in?  I can’t rate it highly enough, this mascara rocks a zillion times over.  Have you heard of this brand or tried any of their products yet?  :-/  Please share your thoughts.  :)

The logo and packaging images are generic, the rest of the images are my own.

Lime Crime - Uniliner

Hi peeps  :-h  Things have been a little quiet on the review front since Xmas, but things are starting to pick up and by next month I’ll be overloaded with products to test drive and share with you all.  This review is actually one that I thought I had done ages ago, but when you look – no goes!!!  D’Oh!  #-o  So, at finally at long last, here are my thoughts on a liquid eyeliner that was sent to me by Jill at Makeupnet to try and then share my experience.

The Uniliner, comes to us from Lime Crime, a Cruelty Free and mostly Vegan makeup brand, known for it’s adorable packaging and the vivid and unique, stand-out colour variety that features throughout the collection of products.  =D>  The Uniliner is a liquid eyeliner that comes in an array of different and exciting hues, ranging from orange to yellow to silver to blue.  I received a blue shade called Lazuli, inspired by the gemstone Lapis Lazuli, which is an electric blue with purple undertones. :)

The packaging is typical Lime Crime style that is totally whimsical and instantly appealing.  <:-P   The purple cardboard box has printed detailing and is adorned with vines and spider webs, in white and lime green hues.  Inside the box is a compact tube that I initially thought was very small, but in comparison to many other brands on the market it’s probably about average and retails among the same category as numerous other high end brands – not the most expensive out there but not ultra cheap either, but in my opinion it gives plenty of bang for your buck!  #:-S  Attached to the screw-off lid is a small to medium length flexible brush with soft, fine bristles that is comfortable to hold and allows for complete control.  The colour looks kind of sparkly in the tube, but the formula actually has a matte finish and any sparkles don’t show up once applied.  The consistency is slightly runny and there is no noticeable fragrance, but it’s got brilliant colour payoff, so one swipe provides an opaque finish, however it layers well for maximum intensity.  \:D/

The Uniliner glides on with ease and dries fast, without smudging, streaking or flaking.  My lids are oily and I was surprised to find that it stays put all day with only very minimal fading.  But, for even better performance, I tried it using a primer, in this case the Lime Crime Candy Eyed Eyeshadow Helper (that appears to be no long available, however they do have a new version called Eyeshadow Helper, claiming ‘Up to 24 hours of crease-free wear, works even on the oiliest of eyelids!’ sounds pretty darn good too  ;) ), which really does boost the vibrancy and staying power.  It works well without an eyelid primer, but using the primer makes it even better.  :D  I was impressed with how long it lasted, considering the eyeliner is not waterproof, yet, it does come off easily with my regular eye makeup remover and a bit of warm water at the end of the day.

Swatch

Overall, I love using this product and the vivid effect that one bold line above my upper lashes can effortlessly deliver.  :x   The Uniliner is ultimate addition to any beauty kit and I would recommend it to those who desire a perfect pop of colour that will undoubtedly attract some serious attention, create a statement and enhance any makeup look.  (*)

Tip –   *-:)  It’s wise to apply each coat lightly, because using to much product increases the drying time.

What do you think, are these the sort of colours you are daring enough to wear?  :-/  What type of eyeliner do you prefer and how are your liquid eyeliner skills?  :-?  Any more tips of suggestions when it comes to coloured liquid liners?



All images in this post are my own.

Dr. LeWinn’s Skin Perfect Foundation

Hello fellow beauty lovers  :-h  This product that I am about to review was sent to me as a member of the trial team on the Australian beauty website Beauty Heaven.  The idea is to give it a good test drive over about a 4 week period, then submit a written review sharing my thoughts on the experience. So, here’s telling you all  :D

I’ve always been fond of Dr Lewinn’s skin care products, but with their latest Skin Perfect makeup range, they have focused on building the bridge between makeup and skincare, introducing a 2-in-1 (or make that even 3-in-1, if you consider it a sunscreen too) luxury anti-ageing cosmetic line-up.  <:-P  As a busy woman, usually I’m pressed for time, so I always welcome taking on a multi-tasking approach, when it comes to my beauty regime.  ;)  Not like your average makeup, Dr Lewinn’s Skin Perfect Foundation features additional ‘turn-back-the-clock’ benefits, such as ingredients that promote skin renewal and encourage collagen production, for smoother, firmer, more youthful-looking skin.  It’s also infused with hyaluronic acid that retains moisture to nourish and soften skin and minerals to enhance lustre and create a healthy glow.  SPF, however, is what I consider to be the ultimate age fighter, used to protect against UV damage, one of the main causes of premature ageing.  =D>

The Dr Lewinn’s Skin Perfect Foundation is packaged in a 30ml frosted glass bottle with a pump-action dispenser.  It features a silver metallised collar and a brown cap, which compliments the brown lettering and contributes to an overall sleek, stylish presentation that is ultra classy.  B-)

The consistency of the foundation is light and creamy, with a velvety, silky smooth texture that glides onto my skin and blends with ease.  Because the formula boasts SPF, unfortunately the foundation smells more like a sunscreen than anything else,  :-S   however it’s not an offensive smell and it dissipates soon after application.  #:-S  The fluid and sets rapidly, leaving a weightless, natural-looking, dewy finish that plumps my skin and radiates vibrancy and lustre.  The medium coverage doesn’t cover all of my imperfections, but it’s quite buildable, so by layering over problem areas, I can achieve a fairly decent camouflage.  :)   I have the shade Latte that matches my skin tone to perfection, disguising facial redness and minor flaws for a uniform complexion, creating a ‘not wearing foundation at all’ appearance that looks like real skin rather than a mask.  >:D<

The staying power is mediocre, possibly due to my oily skin type, (meh, seriously I can’t win a trick with oily skin)  =((  and after a few hours my face is quite shiny,   ~X(  although a quick dusting of translucent powder quickly corrects the problem.  (Phew, thank you lordy lord)  [-O<  I don’t experience any caking, streaking or patchiness and the foundation doesn’t settle into fine lines or fade, instead it seems to provide a healthy, illuminating glow, which is manageable as long as I keep the shine at bay.  I usually apply using a cosmetic brush or beauty pod, but in this case, fingers also do a pretty good job of delivering flawless results. 

I love that this foundation provides the additional benefits of sun protection, as well as coverage and correcting properties.  :x   I can’t claim to have noticed a significant improvement of my premature ageing skin concerns, yet I’m more than happy to use it over a longer period to see how it develops.  :-w   I do admit though, after I’ve applied the foundation, my face takes on a delightfully youthful glow, so in that respect it truly rocks!  \:D/ We live in the day of multi-tasking products, so to have a foundation that bridges the gap between skin care and makeup (and sun protection) is pretty nifty and ideal for those who lead a busy lifestyle and prefer to cut corners.  I would definitely recommend the Dr Lewinn’s Skin Perfect Foundation to anyone wanting barely-there, natural coverage, which promotes a gorgeous, luminous complexion that looks younger and visibly more radiant.  (*)

TIP:  Use in conjunction with the Dr. LeWinn’s Primer in the same range for even better results.

Have you tried this foundation, if so what do you think…yay or nay?   :-?  What about any other anti-ageing cosmetics products?  Makeup/Skincare combinations are being seen more and more on the market these days, after all in this day and age most of us appreciate multi-use beauty products!  In your experience are they a good idea, fair enough they save you time, but do they really replace the individual steps effectively??  :-/

The image in this post is generic.

Nude by Nature Mineral Bronzer

Hi guys!  :-h  Well, I'm back playing catch-up, so will see if I can get a few posts uploaded while I have the chance!  Not sure how many I will fit in (sorry peeps, time is as always lately, of the essence  :-"  ) , but anyhow, here is the first attempt....  B-)  My latest post is a review for a product sent to me by the lovely and generous Tammerly from Spoilt.  <:-P   Here is a recollection of my experience :-)

Nude by Nature Mineral Bronzer is designed to give the skin a warm, natural glow without the damaging effect of the sun.  It features mineral ingredients, including light-reflecting Mica for luminosity and Kaolin to help absorb excess oil, along with Titanium Dioxide and Zinc for their sun protection coverage, anti-inflammatory properties and skin nurturing benefits.  The gentle formulation has no chemicals, talc or other nasty irritants, so it’s ideal for the most sensitive of skin and even suitable for those with conditions, such as rosacea or acne.  \:D/

The bronzer comes in a generously sized 15gm transparent plastic circular pot with a brown screw-off lid.  The clear plastic lets me see the inner contents to determine the true colour and exact product level.  The appearance of the packaging is plain, but stylish, with silver lettering on top of the lid, displaying the brand name, whilst a sticker is attached to the base of the pot, listing the ingredients and company information.  Inside the lid, a see-through, plastic insert is fitted, with a dozen holes pressed through the centre, which is sealed with a peel-off sticker when first opened.  Once discarded, the holes create a ‘sifter’ mechanism, to prevent too much product wastage and to reduce the flow of the powder, for ease of application.  There is no applicator of any type supplied with this bronzer,  :-S   so it’s essential I have my own tools handy whenever I wish to use it.  #-o

The Nude by Nature Mineral Bronzer is a very finely milled loose powder and is highly pigmented in a chocolate colour with cool undertones, rather than the warmer orange and pink hues often associated with bronzers.  :">  The biggest disappointment is there is only the one standard shade available and despite having a medium complexion, I still find it’s a bit too dark.  :-O   The unscented powder is silky soft in texture with a creamy consistency and incorporates tiny flecks of silver sparkle, which are visible throughout.  The formula isn’t grainy at all, allowing for effortless blending and thankfully the glimmer particles are not too obvious once on my skin.  Instead, the bronzer creates a subtle, radiant sheen that gives my face the impression of being ‘less’ shiny and ‘more’ naturally dewy. 

I use a large dome shaped brush for the application, dipped into the powder, then shaken to remove any excess and finally tapping the brush on its base to ensure it’s loaded evenly.  Next, I lightly buff the powder onto my skin, carefully blending into the area’s where the sun hits, for instance, my cheekbones, temples, brow bone, inner corner of the eyes, outer jaw bone, cupids bow and along the bridge of my nose.  The realistic finish compliments my skin tone to achieve a lustrous, sun-kissed complexion.  The staying power is impressive, lasting the duration of the day and since I’ve been using this bronzer, I haven’t experienced any adverse reactions to my fragile skin.  :D

I like the overall effect of this bronzing powder, even though the colour is darker than I expected, my face doesn’t appear dirty or muddy and the end result remains authentic.  =D>  When I first saw the sparkly specs in the powder, I thought it would emphasise my imperfections and make my oily skin look shiny, instead of radiant.  However, the Nude by Nature Mineral Bronzer delivers an almighty punch of colour and a natural, healthy glow to perfectly define my features.  ;;) I am not really a fan of the loose powder though, because it’s just too messy, therefore, a pressed version would be more convenient.  :>  This bronzer would also be more appealing if there were a few different shades available.  :-<  I wouldn’t recommend it for light or pale skin tones and would definitely suggest getting a colour match before buying, as I believe the deeper glow is better suited to folks with a darker complexion. 

I rated this bronzer with 3.5 stars out of 5!    (*)  (*)  (*)  & ½  (*)

TIP:  *-:)  Try mixing the powder into oils and lotions for the body to create a hot summer look any time of year.

Have you used this product at all?  :-?  Or, do you like loose powder bronzers, or do you prefer something different? What is the worst  bronzer you have used in terms of colour?  :-/  Any thoughts on the topic please share!    

The image used in this post is generic.

Clarins Ever Matte SPF 15 Oil-FREE Skin Balancing Foundation

Hello beauties!  :-h   now I’m reviewing a product based on a trial for Tammerly who was super generous in sending me this foundation to test drive on behalf of her Spoilt beauty blog, which is linked here.  Here are my thoughts.  :-*

I have super oily skin, so finding a suitable foundation is always a challenge. Even those that claim to be oil-free and matte, don’t necessarily work that way for me and within hours of the initial application, guess what???  Yep, my skin turns into an oily, greasy mess, making me look like I’ve just jumped out of the deep fryer.  :">  Either that or the formulation is too rich and makes me break out, or it’s too heavy and looks almost plastered on, leaving me with another foundation that simply doesn’t compliment my naturally oily skin.  ~X(  I was keen as a bean to try the Clarins Ever Matte SPF 15 Oil-FREE Skin Balancing Foundation and see if I could eliminate my foundation blues once and for all.  >:/

The Clarins Ever Matte SPF 15 Oil-FREE Skin Balancing Foundation comes in very plain packaging and was not what I was expected from such an upmarket brand; provoking my initial reaction that it looks ‘cheap’ or ‘stingy’.   :-O   In my opinion, the presentation is on par with an average, everyday budget or no-frills cosmetics brand, which is a far cry from my conception of how a leading, luxury beauty brand should be marketed.   /:)  The slim, 30ml rectangular-shaped, squeezable plastic tube boasts a plastic lid with a mirrored gold coating, which is the only indication of the brands high quality.  I don’t like how the bottle is opaque; therefore I’m unable to see inside to determine the content level.  This is especially annoying, because the bottle feels so light, for all I know it could be near empty and I have no way of ever knowing.  :-L  On the plus side, this modest, little foundation is ideal for travelling or popping in your purse/handbag to use on the go, plus it’s non-fragile, causing no concern about breakage.  :">

I’ve never been a fan of scented beauty products on my face and wasn’t expecting to unveil a fragranced foundation,  @};-  however, the unusual fruity melon aroma infused in this formula is subtle and quick to fade and during this experience I’ve actually grown fond of the delicate scent.  The consistency is light and airy with a creamy, velvet-like texture that feels silky smooth, which glides onto the skin and blends with ease.  It’s fast drying, and sets into a weightless, natural-looking, matte finish, minus that dull, flat appearance often associated with matte foundations; instead it generates a vibrant, lustrous impression.   ;;)  The light-medium coverage doesn’t hide all my flaws, but it’s buildable, so gently layering over problem areas that require extra attention, omits the need for a separate concealer.  The shade 110 Honey perfectly matches my colouring and effectively transforms my complexion by covering redness and minor imperfections with a veil that uniforms my skin tone, without the obvious indication of wearing foundation at all.  It’s formulated to allow my skin to breathe and provides the less is more approach; hence my skin looks like skin and not a mask.  ;)

Shade Honey 110

The staying power is exceptional and I am impressed that after 8 hours the foundation hasn’t budged, still appears fresh and …you better believer it…MATTE!  =D>  Yes, I honestly didn’t expect it to hold up this well, even though after a few hours a slight shine becomes visible on my forehead, my skin is not AT ALL oily or greasy.  Alternatively, it creates a natural, dewy finish that radiates a beautiful, all-over, healthy-looking glow.  There is no caking, streaking or patchiness and no sign of fading or flaking, my just skin remains comfortable and hydrated.  <:-P  I prefer using a brush or a beauty pod for application, to ensure flawless results, nevertheless, fingers work adequately when I’m lacking in time.  I usually buff translucent powder over my face after applying foundation, which is basically out of habit and makes little difference to the end results, so I wouldn’t consider setting powder as necessary.     B-)

With the bonus of SPF 15 for added protection, the non-comodegenic formulation improves my complexion, yet doesn’t irritate my fussy sensitive skin or cause any issues with congestion or breakouts.  This foundation ticks all the right boxes, meeting my personal requirements for a faultless day-to-day foundation.  With a lightweight, barely-there feel, it delivers advanced performance and longevity, controlling excess oil, whilst skin remains fresh, polished and matte all day, eliminating the need for regular touch-ups and frequent blotting.  :x  Thanks to the Clarins Ever Matte SPF 15 Oil-FREE Skin Balancing Foundation, my oily skin woes are a thing of the past and I would recommend it to anyone wanting to achieve gorgeous, even skin with natural luminosity and a matte-like finish that will last the distance and produce the ultimate complexion perfection.  \:D/

I’m rating this foundation with 4 stars out of 5.  (*) (*) (*) (*)  It loses a ½ star for the unappealing packaging and another ½ for being quite costly, especially conceding the bottle feels so depleted. I will be interested to see how long it actually lasts.   

TIP:   *-:) This foundation works 100% better without a primer! I was left disappointed when I first tried this foundation, incorporating a pre-foundation primer.  An hour later, I noticed that my face was not particularly matte and in lieu of displaying that dewy radiance, the slippery beginnings of oil had started to surface on my T-Zone.  I have ever since, maintained immaculate results every time, by just prepping my skin with a normal daily moisturiser and skipping the primer all together.

Do you have oily skin, where finding a foundation is sometimes a nightmare?  Do you find makeup that even claims to be suited for oily skin still doesn't help and you face gets shiny or greasy soon after applying?  Share your experiences and any rec's or a solution to effective coverage for oily skinned beauties!

The images in this post are generic. 

Australis Megalash Mascara - Electric Blue

Hello beauties!  :-h   This post is based on my trial for Tammerly the super talented author of Spoilt beauty blog, who kindly sent me this mascara to test drive and review.  The original is linked here. 

When I first tried the Australis Megalash Mascara I felt quite ripped off, because it didn’t generate very noticeable results in providing that essential bit of oomph or polished lashes, I demand from my mascara, especially since my lashes are quite fair, short and straight.  :-L   I was thrilled to receive this mascara in a vibrant Electric Blue shade, because as a person who likes to explore with coloured makeup, I’m fond of brightly hued mascaras, instead of the standard black, brown or more common neutral tones.  Fortunately, despite my initial disappointment, I persisted using the mascara daily for a week, determined not to give up, then during this time, I mastered how to achieve better end results, which I will explain to you now.  #:-S

Housed in black plastic packing with hot pink lettering featuring the brand and product name, the Australis Megalash Mascara tube is large in size, with a budget price tag that promotes plenty of ‘bang for your buck’ in terms of value.  $-)  The brush is a classic design, of average size, tapering at the tip to easily separate individual lashes and reach the inner corners, coating even the finest of hairs.  The creamy, lightweight formula has a thin, runny consistency that applies with minimal fuss and no clumping.  :D  Because it’s quite fluid-like, it takes some time to totally dry, so it’s wise to keep still, without blinking too much, so to avoid smearing or transferring any product onto my skin.  *-:)  I was shattered after the initial application, because, it didn’t boost my lashes and they weren’t fuller or longer at all……until I started applying extra coats.  #-o  Due to the smooth, wet formulation, it’s buildable and therefore layers easily to present the sought after volume, for visibly plumper, longer lashes, for natural-looking appeal that’s not overboard.  ;;)  The highly pigmented colour is incredibly rich and bold, yet it’s not blatantly obvious, unless the lashes come into contact with light.  In spite of numerous layers, my lashes remain flexible and soft to touch, unlike the stiff effect some mascaras create, leaving them so hard I worry they might snap off.  The staying power is exceptional and it won’t budge all day, thanks to the waterproof, tearproof design.  My eyelashes are still fresh at the end of the day, there’s no fading, flaking, smudging or running that can lead to panda eyes, yet the mascara still washes off thoroughly with a normal cleanser, hence no need to invest in a separate waterproof eye makeup remover.  =D>

This mascara conveniently slots into my daytime makeup regime, delivering a soft, natural focus, with a striking splash of funky colour to instantly brighten my eyes.  It’s not my first choice for drama at night, as it doesn’t pack enough of a punch for my taste, although it’s ideal to layer over a lash enhancing mascara or even to use in conjunction with a decent eyelash primer for a more pronounced look.  ;)  Don’t be intimidated by how loud this blue shade appears, because it’s definitely wearable and I keep receiving complements that the flattering hue really makes my eyes ‘pop’.  To ensure your lashes get the attention they deserve, you do need to religiously apply at least two coats of mascara, remembering to ensure each coat is adequately dry before attempting any additional layers.  Whilst time consuming, this step secures the desired colour, fullness and length we expect from a mascara.  For luscious lashes that are beautifully subtle and suitable for everyday, without being too over the top, I suggest you revamp your makeup kit with an Electric Blue Australis Megalash Mascara, to inject a modern approach to your lash look.  :x

My FOTD - See bullet list for other products used.

Whilst my experience has been mostly positive, I’m awarding this little darling with 4 stars instead of 5
 (*)  (*)  (*)  (*)  because I would personally prefer if my lashes were amplified to a greater extent, making them even more exaggerated, however this mascara will be sure to impart a modest, low-key transformation.  :D

FOTD - Products Used

• Foundation - Ultraceuticals Ultra Active Even Skintone Compact - Honey
• Concealer -  NVEY ECO Erase Corrector - Medium
• Blush - Clinique Almost Bronzer - Light/Medium
• Lipliner - Australis Lip Pencil - Tickled Pink
• Lipstick - MAC Amplified Creme - Saint Germain
• Brows -  Prestige My Ultimate Brow Definer Pencil - Blondy
• Eyeliner -  Styli-Style Line & Seal 24 Eyes - Brown
• Mascara - ***Australis Megalash Mascara - Electric Blue***

Do you like coloured mascaras?  :-?  Have you tried any of the Australis range and do you agree the products perform exceptionally well for such an ultra cheap, affordable brand?  What is your favourite, most effective over the counter/pharmacy/supermarket type mascara?  :-/  You know the drill, comment below  :)

The first image of the product is generic, whist the other three snap shots are my own.