Furless Mini Bamboo Makeup Brush Set

Hello friends everywhere!  :-h  When it comes to applying makeup one thing we can probably all agree on is that beauty tools such as brushes compliment the delivery of our cosmetics. By providing the advantage of a quicker application with better control and the ability to achieve a smooth even finish, capturing your desired effect can be created with minimal effort.  I have a few sets of cosmetic brushes, some good, some not so good, but when I do find a great brush, I generally keep using it over and over.  I was lucky enough to win a Furless promotion over at Spoilt beauty blog, which saw me, a proud owner of my very own mini brush set that I've come to believe, is absolutely worth shouting out about.  <:-P

Despite this being a mini or travel sized brush set, these makeup brushes are actually the most used ‘go-to’ beauty tools in my entire cosmetic swag.  The Furless Mini Bamboo Makeup Brush Set contains the basic tools I need to achieve any makeup look at home or when I’m out and about.  The compact black pouch is lightweight with a sleek design, perfect to slip into my handbag or personal luggage utilising minimal space.  The material is durable and well made to protect the firmly packed brushes, keeping them secure during transit.  As a bonus, the pouch includes a handy zip-up compartment, ideal for storing my extra beauty essentials.  The multitasking brushes are incredibly versatile, so, not only do I use them for their specific purpose, I usually interchange them to suit my needs.  \:D/

The classy-looking brushes are inexpensive, considering they are of professional quality and comparable to certain op shelf brands at a fraction of the price.  The short length natural bamboo handles are designed for the ultimate in comfort and control, while the bristles are made with synthetic, cruelty free fibres that are super soft and dense to provide a beautiful, flawless application.  I like that small sized brushes are actually easier to hold onto and manoeuvre than some bulky full-sized versions, particularly when working in awkward positions.  However, don’t be fooled by how little these brushes are, because there is no compromise at all on performance or capability, these brushes handle a maximum workload with the greatest of ease and perfection.  :D  I personally prefer synthetic cosmetic brushes because I love feeling the soft, featherweight brushes on my skin, which are easier to buff and blend compared to animal hair bristles that get scratchy and can irritate my sensitive skin.  :-S  I’ve experienced no problem with the bristles shedding; not even after washing have the bristles become loose, so I’ve never noticed any unwanted strays.  #:-S

The brushes in this set include:

Powder Brush – With luxuriously soft bristles, I’ve successfully used this brush for dusting loose or compact powder and to buff all over colour such as mineral powder foundation or bronzer and it works wonders for applying blush too.

Blush Brush - This slightly rounded, dome shape brush is soft but very dense, so not only does it work well for blush/bronzer application, particularly when contouring the face or sculpting the cheekbone; I actually prefer to use this brush to apply liquid foundation and it constantly maintains flawless results.

Large Eyeshadow Brush – Soft yet firm, this brush packs maximum colour and is suitable for all over soft layering and blending of both wet and dry textured eyeshadows.  It can come in useful for applying concealer and handles the task effortlessly.

Small Eyeshadow Brush – The smaller version of the Large Eyeshadow Brush, perfect for working in smaller areas and close to the lashline.  This doubles nicely as a lip brush as well.

Crease Brush – This brush is firm yet still incredibly soft and gentle, great for detailing and using in the crease or even the eyelids.  It’s ideal for highlighting in the inner corners of the eye and under the brow line.  It also dupes as a concealer brush, especially handy when targeting smaller imperfections.

Angled Liner Brush – Firm but not at all scratchy, this soft, dense angled brush is easy to control, allowing for precise application of both powder liners and gel/cream versions.  The bristles retain their shape for defining and shaping and are thin enough to fill in sparse eyebrows.

Lash/Brow Groomer – Firm enough to comb my brows and keep them neat and tidy.  It also lends as a lash separator to help reduce clumping after mascara application.

I’ve been using these brushes consistently for the past 12 months and they are super effective and last the distance.  Perfect investment for anyone from the novice to the connoisseur, if you want decent, quality brushes that don’t cost the earth, then this is a set you can definitely rely on to cover all your basic makeup needs.  :x   Whilst catering for the budget friendly consumer, even though these brushes are economical, they don’t sacrifice on performance or durability.  Also, if you’re like me and keen supporter of the ethical treatment of animals and are passionate about stamping out animal cruelty, then be sure to avoid animal hair cosmetic brushes.  No animals are harmed creating this brush set from Furless, which is 100% vegan and Halal friendly!  I’ve awarded the Furless Mini Bamboo Makeup Brush Set with a well-deserved rating of 5 stars out of 5!  (*)  (*)  (*)  (*)  (*)   =D>  Highly recommended!

What makeup brushes do you personally use and are you a fan of a mix-n-match brush or do you religiously use a specific brush for each task?  :-?  Do you prefer synthetic brushes and if so have you tried any of the gorgeous brushes from Furless?  I have also tried the mineral powder foundation from Furless as well, which was brilliant, what is your favourite product from their range, or the one item you would most like to try and why?  :-/

 

All images in this post are generic.

Garnier Caffeine Eye Roll-On

Howdy friends!   :-h  I have been using the Garnier Caffeine Eye Roll-On eye treatment for well over three years now and that is because it is ultra cheap, readily available in most supermarkets and pharmacies nationwide (even in our small one horse town, and that is saying something coz we’ve got nothing here when it comes to beauty booty, EEK!  :-O  ) and most importantly it actually works!   \:D/  Sure everyone is familiar with the horror they face when you’ve done an all nighter and look in the mirror only to see a tired, worn out, exhausted, weary-looking appearance staring back at you.  :-&  I’m talking under eye bags, puffiness, dark circles, dull and dehydrated skin, the works, it’s shattering and you’re looking prematurely aged overnight, which I might add does zip for the self-esteem.  :">  You wish for nothing more than to turn back the clock and have that well rested face staring at you again.   [-O<  The under eye area is usually the most problematic when it comes to visible imperfections because the skin around your eyes is so thin and delicate, making them particularly susceptible.  Tammerly from Spoilt asked me to review this product and considering I’m long term acquaintance who’s used it for years; my experience guarantees I have plenty of feedback to share  :)

A hot cup of coffee helps me mentally recover from lack of sleep, but my eyes unfortunately, always showcase the telltale evidence and highlight the fact that I’m still tired.  (:|  So, what I need is a cup of coffee for my eyes!  Yes, it is well documented that the goodness of topical caffeine provides anti-inflammatory relief, provoking an instant wake-up call for eye imperfections to send unwanted bags packing, once and for all.  Enter Garnier Caffeine Eye Roll-On, a cooling eye treatment that acts like a cold compress, soothing away puffiness, plumping fine lines and delivering much needed moisture to the thirsty, dehydrated skin around the eye contour.  Injected with a shot of caffeine to constrict blood vessels, increase circulation and boost radiance, this effective beauty aid includes the additional anti-ageing benefits of antioxidants, which protects against damaging free radicals that can lead to premature ageing.  :D

Boasting a bright, neon green, plastic canister with a transparent, twist-top lid firmly covering the steel roller-ball that maintains freshness, the Garnier Caffeine Eye Roll-On is compact in size and shaped like a pen, making it suitable to pop into my handbag for use on the go.  The mess-free, roller-ball applicator automatically dispenses a clear gel-like fluid that I apply to the eye contour using a small circular motion.  During this process, the roller-ball massages the skin surrounding the eye and stimulates blood flow, assisting with drainage to actively de-puff and minimise swelling.  This in turn perks up my eyes and brightens the dull, discoloured skin, generating a lifted effect for a revitalising ‘pick-me-up’.   ;;)  The gel is thin and lightweight in texture and absorbs fast, without leaving behind any sticky residue or greasy film that could interfere with makeup application.  The odourless formula is also super gentle; therefore it doesn’t cause any irritation to my skin or eyes.  =D>

I’ve relied on this eye treatment, on and off, for years, but after a full month of daily use, putting it to the ultimate test, I am unable to determine that it produces any visible, long-term anti-ageing effects, such as banishing existing crows feet or softening wrinkles.  I can’t support the claims that it reduces dark circles on a permanent basis either, as I rarely suffer from under eye discolouration myself.  I can however, definitely vouch that it is the perfect ‘quick-fix’ that works within minutes to improve vitality for youthful eyes that look wide-awake.  It performs optimally to banish the symptoms of too many late nights, diminishing puffiness and inflammation, whilst brightening tired eyes, resulting in a completely refreshed and healthy appearance.  To cure signs of fatigue and remove excess baggage, I highly recommend the easy to use, affordable Garnier Caffeine Eye Roll-Onthat promptly refreshes and rejuvenates the eye area.  It’s a first class, budget beauty buy that I'm rating 4 out of 5 stars  (*)  (*)  (*)  (*)  based on my experience, because while it only offers temporary respite and nothing truly substitutes for a good night rest, if you are feeling tired, once this roll-on performs its magic, no one will know, as you certainly won’t look tired….at all!   <:-P

TIP: Keep it in the fridge to intensify the cooling sensation.  It grants some serious reprieve for worn out eyes, especially first thing in the morning or during a really hot day and feels ahh-mazing!   

Have you tried this eye treatment or experienced the benefits of caffeine infused skin care products?  :-?  How would you rate it, effective or…..??  :-/  What is your ‘go-to’ product when you need to quickly disguise the appearance of tired eyes, so you look wide awake and alert even if you are not??


All images in this post are generic.

Nailene So Natural Everyday French

As they are, prior to filing.

As they are, prior to filing.

Hello peeps  :-h   False nails have never appealed to me, especially after a nightmare-ish experience as a teen,  :-O   so I’ve avoided them like the plague ever since.  :-S   But, when Beauty Heaven offered me the opportunity to try the Nailene So Natural Everyday French, featuring a new comfort flex technology, I decided I had nothing to loose and everything to gain, confident that surely glue-on nails would have improved over the past 20 odd years.  Based on my experience, needless to say, indeed they have!  =D>

 

Filed to my desired shape/length.

Filed to my desired shape/length.

The Nailene So Natural Everyday French nail kit is presented in cardboard packaging with a clear window at the front, so consumers can view the exact colour, shape and length of the nails inside.  I was sent a short sheer pack, consisting of 24 nails in assorted sizes, a file/buffer, cuticle stick and a small tube of glue, which is ample to affix two full sets of nails and then some.  The nails were so easy to apply and fit my own nails precisely, with the whole process of sticking on the 12 nails, taking less than 5 mins to complete.  :)  The glue has the same texture and consistency as standard super glue, but without the offensive smell.  It was simple to run the glue on the back of each false nail and then quickly transfer it to my own nail, gently pressing and holding in place for a few moments to allow it to set. The drying time was only seconds, allowing me to carry straight on with the application of the rest of the nails concurrently.  It did take me some time afterward to file down the artificial nails to the shape and length that suits my preference, however this is a one off step and once it’s done the nails look so authentic nobody would ever know that they weren’t my natural nails.  ;)

Polish done, nails complete.

Polish done, nails complete.

I was super impressed by the lightweight, comfortable feel, durability and staying power, because a week later and these nails have not budged.  <:-P   I am super hard on my hands and during this past week, I’ve washed dishes twice daily, scrubbed clothing and undertaken rigorous housework and the nails have withstood my busy lifestyle.  I painted the nails using my favourite nail polish and I am amazed at how long the polish has remained looking freshly painted, with only a bit of wear and tear showing just on the tips, even after a full week.  Never, ever has my manicure lasted so long!  I have not yet removed the nails, so I can’t determine if there is any damage to the surface of my own nails at this stage, although generally the damage occurs to the nail bed,  *-:)  which can easily be avoided by keeping the cuticles constantly nourished by applying moisturising hand and nail treatments and cuticle oil/balms.  I will reassess my review at a later date, if I feel the need to alter my rating, however at this stage; I seriously can’t fault the Nailene So Natural Everyday French.  I would absolutely recommend these nails to anyone who wants gorgeous, natural-looking, low-maintenance fingernails that I personally think are just as good as professional falsies, for a fraction of the cost. Thanks to Nailene I am finally sporting the nails I always dreamed of!   \:D/

A week later, minimal wear and tear.

A week later, minimal wear and tear.

 

 

 

NOTD: Products Used

1.  CND Stickey Base Coat

2.  OPI Jade Is the New Black 

3.  CND Super Shiney Top Coat

What is your take on fake nails, do you think they are any better than the falsies of the past?  :-?  Would you use them yourself?  Have you ever tried Nailene glue on nails and if so how would you rate your experience?

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.

KMS Free Shape Hot Flex Spray

Yo all!  :-h   My hair is dead straight and baby fine, so normally I don’t need to rely on a straightening iron, however for special occasions or if I’m going out on the town, I use my straightener to keep my strands looking smooth, sleek and to eliminate frizz and pesky flyaways.  :-*   I do tend to blow-dry my mop quite often though, particularly in the cooler months, rather than letting it dry naturally.  Because I’ve coloured my tresses constantly for the past 20 odd years, it’s already quite fragile,  #-o  so I need to be cautious about the abuse that can occur from using heat styling products, therefore I always ensure that a heat protectant product features as a religious step in my hair care maintenance routine, guaranteeing optimal hair health.  ;)  I am also particular when it comes to choosing which product to use, as my mane is naturally oily and I don’t want to exasperate the problem with sprays or serums that leave my locks looking limp and greasy.   :-O   Finding the most suitable hair care all comes down to trial and error for me, so when Tammerly  sent me the KMS Free Shape Hot Flex Spray to trial for her beauty website Spoilt, which is linked here, I was thrilled to consent.  Here is my review:   ;;)

The KMS Free Shape Hot Flex Spray is a heat protection product, suitable for all hair types, that creates a protective barrier to insulate my locks and prevent thermal damage.  It comes in a hot pink pump-action spray bottle (I tried the mini, travel sized version) adorned with black and mint-green lettering.  I apply about three pumps of the weightless formula directly onto my towel-dried strands before heat styling and based on trial and error, that amount is sufficient to cater for my medium length mane.   I have also tried using it directly on already dried hair, which as a result becomes more obedient, while it helps to lock in the appearance of my preferred hairdo.  The indulgent, fine mist smells delightfully sweet, lingering to create a multi-sensory experience that leaves my tresses feeling refreshed and smelling delectable for hours.  @};-   As well as defending my mop against thermal assault, it safeguards from the ravages of humidity that is a constantly battle living here in the tropics.  <:-P  Whist maintaining long-lasting style, unlike a hairspray, it doesn’t provide ample hold, so there is no hard, crunchy stiffness to worry about.  #:-S   The medium resistance allows plenty of flexibility and movement, so my locks look and feel natural and soft to touch.  The spray doesn’t transfer any sticky residue or a coating of oily film; instead it’s completely non-greasy.  As a plus, I was thrilled when I discovered that by applying this product prior to heat styling, the drying time is considerably quicker than normal.  :)

Since I’ve been using the KMS Free Shape Hot Flex Spray, the softness of my hair has intensified and it’s now more manageable.  :x   It preps my hairdo to stay in place and extends the life of the style for a sleek, polished look, right up until the next wash.  By enhancing my strands with a silky smooth, ultra shiny finish that is completely relaxed, yet lightly textured, it creates the impression of increased body, promoting extra volume and plumping up my usually limp tresses.  It’s a product that simply tames my mane so styling is a breeze and the end result looks like I’ve been treated with a professional salon blow-dry.  :D  For a bit of extra oomph, it’s advised to spritz the mist into sections of the hair, which encourages maximum shaping and even better control.  Despite the weather conditions, my mop now resists frizzy flyaways, particularly in the warmer weather and I feel confident because my locks are shielded against the stress caused by frequent heat styling and environmental aggressors.  The anti-break technology reflects heat, preventing split ends and moisture loss by repairing and replenishing my hair, keeping it healthy, strong and conditioned.  B-)

I am happy with the performance of the KMS Free Shape Hot Flex Spray.  It has proven its ability to protect against thermal damage, whilst optimising the effectiveness of various heat styling tools.  It instantly transforms my dull, drab locks into perfect, frizz-free, pencil-straight tresses, with improved definition and a lustrous, glossy finish, minus any annoying build-up.  I am rating this product with 4.5 stars out of 5  (*)  (*)  (*)  (*)  & ½  (*)  because it allows me to achieve my desired look that lasts the distance, with minimal effort.   

Do you use a heat protector of some shape of form when styling your locks?  :-/  Do you prefer a multi-tasker with additional benefits and if so what would you personally look for in a heat protector product?  :-?  Share your thoughts in the comments section   :)  

The image in this post is generic.

INVISIBLE ZINC® ESP™ Environmental Skin Protector

Howdy my peeps!  :-h   I’ve been a big fan of Invisible Zinc Tinted Daywear for years and have previously claimed it as one of my Top 10 favourite beauty products.  I have fair skin and have always lived in the FNQ coastal tropics, where I was raised on the beach, knowing that Zinc offers an effective approach to sun protection.  Although unlike the days of old, as I remember the humiliation whenever my mum would paint the thick paint-like sunblock in streaks over my face (making me rather shame), wishing the ground would open up and swallow me.  :">   I had a love hate relationship with Zinc, loved that I never got burnt when wearing Zinc, but hated its thick, gluggy texture and obvious appearance.   ~X(   However, like many of Aussies, I too followed the iconic eighties trend of exhibiting florescent zinc stripes across my nose and cheeks , OMG what were we thinking, LOL!   L-)  :))  At the end of the era, I forgot about Zinc, as it wasn’t particularly appealing to me as a teen or when I was in my early twenties.  Then, years later, when I was introduced to Invisible Zinc and was able to determine that the Zinc sunscreens of the past were finally reformulated, with the zinc particles becoming micro-fine to provide a reflective barrier on the skin’s surface, which was inconspicuous to the naked eye, yet still capable of effectively shielding against damaging UV rays.  \:D/  I’ve always wanted to try the Invisible Zinc Environmental Skin Protector, but had never had the chance, so when Tammerly from Spoilt sent it out for me to test drive, I couldn’t wait for it to arrive.  Here are my thoughts:

Invisible Zinc Environmental Skin Protector comes in an innovative airless pump-action canister with a clip-shut lid that seals tightly, guaranteeing the purity of the formulation by preventing contamination.  The packaging, available in both 30 and 50ml sizes, is designed featuring the distinguishable Invisible Zinc logo with overt black, white and yellow print.  The sturdy pump allows easy distribution and one press allocates a pea-sized amount of the smooth, white, thickly textured cream, which surprisingly, is a much thinner consistency than it initially appears.  #:-S   This supplies enough cream for my whole face, so I only need to pump twice when extending the product to my neck and décolleté.  The fragrance is subtle with a delicate aroma, nothing like a typical sunscreen scent and becomes non-existent anyway, once transferred to the skin.  The lotion blends and spreads easily with my fingertips, then once applied, absorbs rapidly, without any tacky remnants.  The outcome is a perfectly comfortable, remarkably lightweight veil that creates a faint white cast and a slight surface shine, but thankfully, even though my skin is super oily, the finish is non-greasy and doesn’t cause an oil slick on my face.  :)  Instead, the semi-matte effect is extremely appealing, especially prior to my daily makeup ritual, acting like a primer, by forming an adhesive base that’s not sticky to touch, nevertheless entices cosmetics to grip and hold on like glue, improving the general staying power and keeping excess oil at bay.  <:-P

Not only is the Invisible Zinc Environmental Skin Protector an exceptional broad spectrum sunblock, safeguarding against dangerous UVA + UVB rays, the multi-tasking, anti-ageing product, includes essential moisturising properties to nourish and condition, along with an anti-pollution barrier, which prevents the skin against future assault from damaging environmental aggressors.  ;)  I don’t need a separate moisturiser, but the formula may not be hydrating enough for those with drier skin types, a factor obviously dependant on personal preferences or determined by trial and error.  I’ve not suffered any sensitivity issues since incorporating this sunscreen into my daily regime; although unfortunately it’s sparked the arrival of a few unsightly pimples.  I’m not sure if the cream is clogging my pores or if a particular ingredient may be triggering the breakouts, as a full ingredient list isn’t disclosed on the packaging or anywhere on the company website for that matter, making the origin difficult to pinpoint.   :-/

I’m impressed with the level of cover this broad spectrum sunblock provides, considering I’ve not once been burnt, even with direct exposure, during the time I’ve worn the SPF 30+ cream on a daily basis.  I usually have trouble finding suitable sun care options, on account of most chemical versions provoking my oily skin to go crazy, so to date, mineral Zinc remains my ingredient of choice, because I prefer the physical protection and skin health benefits associated with Zinc.  Despite the pesky spots I’ve been sporting lately, I like the finish and longevity the Invisible Zinc Environmental Skin Protector delivers and I’m confident in the overall performance.  It’s satisfying to be armed with the best weapon to block UV rays, whilst preventing further damage and the onset of any visible signs of ageing.  Sunscreen is the most important and relevant anti-ageing skin care product and the ultimate defence in the fight against premature ageing.  =D>

I’m rating the Invisible Zinc Environmental Skin Protector with 3.5 stars out of 5!  (*)  (*)  (*)  &  ½  (*)  Deducting ½ a star because of the unwanted pimples I’ve developed and 1 star as a result of the concealed ingredients and lack of product information available to consumers.  This prompted my own online research to determine what this sunscreen is made up of and based on my findings I feel the need to point out, while the company claims there are ‘No Chemical Sunfilters’ and it’s promoted as ‘The sunscreen Mother Nature would wear’ but, if there are no ‘nasties’ on board, then why not reveal the entire contents, so we all know ‘exactly’ what we are putting on our skin?  :-?

TIP:  *-:)   This product is somewhat stubborn to remove (which is a good thing coz I know it’s not going to budge or slide off during the heat of the day) and a normal cleanser doesn’t have quite enough oomph.  I always implement the double cleansing method, using an oil based pre-cleanser (I like jojoba) first, followed by an AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) deep pore cleanser to ensure every last trace of sunscreen is gone and my skin is totally clean.  

What is your preferred form of sun protection?  Chemical or Physical?  Do you like Zinc and have you tried Invisible Zinc products before?  :-?  Any suggestions for alternative Zinc based sun protection that you have tried and can recommend?  :-/  I would love to try out different physical sunscreens as I’m still on the search for my holy grail, so please hit me with any ideas you might have  :)

The images in this post are generic.

Elixia Eye Brightening Fluid

Hello friends everywhere!  :-h  This is the third and final Elixia review, that I have been test driving for the TrialTeam over at the leading Australian beauty website, Beauty Heaven.  Here are my thoughts based on my product experience as well as my own generic brand introduction that I’ve replicated in the first paragraph of all three reviews to help familiarise my readers with this particular range ;) 

 

I was completely unfamiliar with the brand Elixia when Beauty Heaven first asked me to participate in this trial,  :-/  so I took the opportunity to do some online research and promptly ascertained that this Australian company produces premium skin care based on science and clinical development.  I was sent three products representative of their High Performance Anti-Ageing range, which is all natural and free of nasties, albeit infused with a potent blend of peptides, antioxidants and actives, including Vitamins A (retinol), C and E.  These supercharged ingredients hold the key to reversing prematurely aged skin and are exactly what I look for in my skin care, so it was my eager expectation that Elixia should compliment my current anti-ageing routine to perfection.  :D  The products are formulated using an exclusive, innovative technology called TPM (Targeted Penetration Matris) to help deliver the effective cocktail of ingredients deep into the epidermis for better execution, whereby enhancing the absorption and penetration by up to 4 times

Hygienic roller-ball packaging

Twist to unlock the base

The Elixia Eye Brightening Fluid comes in a classy 10ml roller-ball style canister with the identifiable silver and bold magenta colour scheme that is consistent throughout the range and screams of superior quality.  $-)  I love the roller-ball presentation when it comes to eye treatments, because the design provides a hygienic, mess-free, application method that’s gentle enough for the delicate skin around the eye contour, whilst at the same time protecting the integrity of any ingredients vulnerable to air degradation, by encasing the product in a sealed, airtight dispenser.  :x  You just have to unlock the base of the pen-like housing, by twisting it in the direction of the ‘open’ arrow, displayed underneath, then press the button once to encourage the formula to release onto the roller-ball ready to 'rock and roll'.  After use, simply turn in the reverse direction toward the ‘close’ arrow to lock the base, which then makes it handy for popping into a purse to provide an instant reviver anywhere, any time.  I do, however, find, at times, too much product can surface after a solid press of the button that I suspect contributes to wastage,  :-S  so it pays to be very careful not to press too firmly during this process.  #-o  The other hindrance that I faced was, at one point, soon after I started using this product, it became blocked and I was unable to exude any product from the canister at all.  I thought the dispenser may have been faulty, but I soon remedied the problem, by standing the pen upside down overnight and thankfully when I attempted to use it next, it worked just fine.  *-:)

Too much product can emerge with a firm press

A full dose is too much for one application

The white, fluid-like formula is similar to a lotion, with a super lightweight texture and a smooth, velvety consistency.  It has a subtle aroma that smells delightful, but it’s ever so slight that it’s barely noticeable once contacted with the skin.  Initially the fluid feels a tad oily, but surprisingly it absorbs quickly with no trace of greasy residue.  I love how the metal roller-ball promptly cools, soothes and refreshes the delicate orbital area, particularly where the skin is thinner and always drier under the eye, leaving it replenished, ultra soft and smooth.  :)  By promoting a ‘bright-eyed’ effect that plumps and visibly tightens the fragile skin, reduces swelling and discoloration to help achieve a wide-awake appearance that is foolproof to disguise telltale puffy eyes and those dreaded dark circles that occur after too many late nights.  ;;) It works equally well, when applied under my makeup or as required for a revitalising ‘quick-fix’.  In addition to the daytime benefits, when employed on a nightly basis it helps keep the eye area moisturised and protected to prevent the onset of ageing symptoms before they rear their ugly head, not to mention, when I rise of a morning I’m already looking energised.  \:D/

It looks oily but leaves no residue

Despite the few issues I had dispensing the product; I positively love this eye treatment.  :-*   I’ve always been fond of roller-balls, especially during summer time when I prefer to keep my eye creams in the refrigerator, so that when I crawl out of bed in the morning, I beeline for the fridge because the cold temperature immediately increases the overall vitality of the surrounding skin and improves the appearance of tired, weary eyes.  I can then confidently go about my business knowing I look well-rested, thanks to concealing the evidence of minimal sleep, self inflicted by the odd all night shindigs. (:|  [-X   Over time, I have noticed the continual care has provided notable benefits such as fine lines looking softer and more relaxed, the tone is brighter and the previously slackened skin is tighter and firmer.  Overall, based on my experience I would recommend the Elixia Eye Brightening Fluid as an essential ‘pick-me-up’ for busy people who need to eliminate excess baggage and rejuvenate the eyes to achieve more radiant, youthful-looking appearance.  Send those bags packing with the ultimate beauty SOS for eye emergencies!   :-j

How do you manage to hide the telltale signs of too many late nights?  Do you have a quick remedy to disguise the evidence or a special eye treatment cream?  :-?   What are your thoughts on natural brands like Elixia, does it sound appealing or are you more confident using more renowned, big name professional brands?

All images in this post are my own.