Bobbi Brown BB Cream

Hi peeps  :-h  I’m sooo excited to share this next post with you all, because as it turns out, despite my initial scepticism, this little gem has won my heart and I honestly can’t wait to tell the world!  :-@  When Tammerly, the name behind the lifestyle, fashion and beauty blog Spoilt, sent me a BB Cream from one of the more elaborate, professional cosmetics brands, I must admit I had my reservations,  /:) but was still keen to see how it compared to the authentic versions I’d previously tried.  Read on to find out more about it and why it’s earned a permanent niche in my beauty kit.  :)>-

Embracing the hottest Asian trend of multi-tasking BB Creams, (aka Beauty Balm or formally Blemish Balm) which have successfully built the bridge between skin care and makeup, The Bobbi Brown BB Cream is a combination moisturiser, skin treatment and foundation with broad spectrum sun protection, all-in-one.  Available in 5 shades, this diverse beauty balm suits all complexions.  :-*

Presented in the distinguished, sleek and classy Bobbi Brown-style packaging, this product epitomises the professional quality, high-end brand to perfection.  The 40ml squeezable tube is jet black, adorned with basic white text and is housed inside a cardboard box of the same design.  The screw-top lid also serves as the base, to allow for upright storage. 

Claiming to be fragrance-free, this beauty balm gives off a delicate, yet very subtle fragrance, which I am grateful, smells nothing like a sunscreen.  #:-S   Whilst rather thick in consistency, the super weightless, emollient formula is smooth and creamy, spreading easily and virtually melting into my skin.  The pigmentation is worth raving about; unlike the usual tinted sunscreens/moisturisers I’ve ever used, it has a light-to-medium coverage that irons out my flaws, just as if it were a foundation.  (*)  I have the Medium to Dark shade that noticeably lends to more of a yellow-undertone, common amongst the Bobbi Brown foundation range, but even though it initially appears kind of darkish, it blends into my own skin tone harmoniously.  The soft, silky finish is natural and dewy, however it doesn’t cause my oily complexion to get greasy or the colour to fade, slide or become blotchy at all throughout the day.  In fact, I can vouch that my skin remains as fresh at the end of a humid, summer day as it was after the morning application.  =D>

Due to the bonus skin care functions of this superior ‘do-it-all’ product, when completing my morning cleansing ritual, I can now scrap my routine skincare/makeup preparations, since this one cream covers all bases, and undoubtedly takes significantly less time.  :D   Meanwhile, it’s ultra hydrating and delivers ongoing nourishment, so a separate moisturiser isn’t even necessary.  Nor is an additional sunscreen, primer or foundation; this BB Cream really does cover all bases – and does it very well too.  It disguises minor imperfections, corrects my uneven skin tone, absorbs excess oil and keeps shine at bay, all while safeguarding against damaging UV rays and other external pollutants.  I can hardly believe there is any sunscreen in this formulation, as it leaves no white cast or other side effects I usually suffer from when using SPF products.  Fortunately, I’ve not been burned when wearing it either, so I’m confident it’s working.  I normally opt for a foundation brush when applying liquid foundation, but I’ve just been using my fingers and it blends spotlessly, with no visible steaks or lines.  ;;)  I personally prefer a light dusting of translucent powder to set the look and to give me more of a matte finish, but those who like a warm, radiant-looking complexion, need not bother.  ;)

I am so happy with the overall efficacy of this BB cream, because it is so compatible with my oily skin and has proven capable of lasting the distance during the hottest of days.  I am in love with the results and would gladly shout out and tell everyone and anyone just how good it is.  :x   It hasn’t caused congested pores or breakouts and after adopting this healing beauty balm for the past month, I can honestly say my skin is noticeably smoother, clearer and more uniform, with an improved texture.  I was originally a bit discouraged when I saw the price of this product, (with an RRP of $60)  :-S  but in reality, it actually costs less than my favourite dual-purpose primer, which boasts similar features and is almost half the size!  #-o   I know there are many cheaper BB Creams on the market, but the price is justified, considering its highly effective skin-regenerating properties as well as the convenience, versatility, performance and longevity.  The biggest drawcard is that it’s like I’m not even wearing any makeup, yet instantly my skin looks and feels gorgeous!  I’m certain I’ve found myself a new day-to-day winner with the Bobbi Brown BB Cream.  The multi-purpose, versatile skin treat, meets both my daily skincare and first base makeup needs perfectly.  I would recommend it to any busy woman, especially those with oily, combination, or breakout-prone skin – finally we have a BB Cream that isn’t too rich and heavy!  <:-P  It’s ideal if you want a fuss-free, comfortable-wearing, anti-ageing beauty aide, with beneficial ingredients such as botanical extracts, caffeine, peptides, vitamins and minerals that provide the ultimate moisturising, protecting, correcting skin care-makeup to optimally transform your skin from the inside out and enhance your complexion, so it’s bright, healthy and sporting a flawless, natural-looking glow. \:D/

Finally, I have now experienced the true hype behind BB Creams and this is definitely the first instant beautifier to change my previously ‘not overly convinced’ mind that BB Creams really are even ‘all that’.  I would absolutely repurchase this deluxe product and am awarding it with a five-star rating, simply because I found it to be 100% faultless!  :)

Well, have I convinced you how good this product is and are you keen to try it out for yourself??  :-?  Are you a fan of the whole BB Cream revolution?  Have you been lucky enough to find the ‘one’ for you yet?  :-/  Please comment about any of your own experiences with BB Creams.  Cheers for that! xxx ooo

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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   :-*

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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.

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.

Dr. LeWinn’s Skin Perfect Anti-ageing Primer

Hi to all you beautiful readers everywhere  :-h   This post is about a product I received from Beauty Heaven to use for a month or so and then write up a review about my experience to submit as part of  their trial team, of which I’ve been a member for the past four years or so.  <:-P

The Dr LeWinn’s Skin Perfect Anti-ageing Primer 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 screams class.  ;;)

The primer itself is thick, white and ultra creamy, with a silky smooth texture that is lightweight and creates an airless film on my skin.  It has a delicate, subtle fragrance that I would describe as slightly floral,  @};-  yet very pleasant and not at all overbearing, as it disappears soon after application.  The non-greasy formulation dries within moments after transferring to my skin, minus any sticky/tacky residue; instead it irons out my flaws and provides a soft, even canvas ready for my makeup.  \:D/  Because it has a moisturiser-like consistency, this primer doesn’t disguise my more obvious imperfections as well as it could, such as filling in pores or fine lines, which are still visible even after applying my makeup.  :-<

Even thought I suffer from sensitivity issues, the formulation of this primer is gentle and it doesn’t spark irritation or contribute to breakouts.  #:-S   I’ve found that this product works better for me during the cooler weather, because on hotter days, whilst initially it appears to mattify my complexion, after a few hours that dreaded midday shine begins to develop on my typically oily skin., EEK!  :-S   I’ve been using the Dr LeWinn’s Skin Perfect Anti-ageing Primer for the past month and I can’t say that I’ve noticed any general improvement in the condition of my skin in terms of anti-ageing, however I’m prepared to use it for a longer time to determine if I can achieve any further skin care benefits.  :-w   To ensure a beautiful, clear, flawless, almost dewy-looking complexion, I recommend using the primer in conjunction with the Dr Lewinn’s Foundation in the same range.  I believe that this product would perfectly suit those with normal to dry skin types, but if anyone with oily skin is interested in giving it a go, then you possibly should be prepared and keep blotting papers or a powder compact handy for touch ups throughout the day.  ;)

Have you been fortunate enough to try this primer yet?  What about any of the other products in the new makeup range…or if not possibly you’re familiar with their skin care and nail products that have been around for ages?  :-/  What are your thoughts, do you find it to be a good value for money brand and is it effective?  :-?  Please post your comments below.  I seriously love hearing from anyone who has a moment to add their thoughts.  xxx ooo

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