Sisley Phyto-Ombre Eclat Long Lasting Eye Shadow

Sisley Phyto-Ombre Eclat Long Lasting Eye Shadow is probably one of the priciest, yet most luxurious eye shadows I have ever purchased! The eye shadow contains 1.5 g (similar to that of regular MAC eye shadows), costs A$55 a pop and is available in 20 beautiful soft shades. It is quite pricey by the sounds of it, but in my opinion, the quality, formulation of the eye shadow and overall finish makes Sisley Phyto-Ombre Eclat so unique as an eye shadow.

Sisley Phyto-Ombre Eclat is an extremely finely milled powder eye shadow which contains natural botanical extracts such as Camellia, White Lily and Green Tea to soften, moisturise and improve fat breakdown. This is a very interesting concept as it is the first time I have come across an eye shadow which provides skin benefits. The eye shadow is packaged in a sturdy matte black compact with an in-built mirror and sponge applicator.

 The shade Banana is a soft buttery sunshine yellow with miniscule iridescent shimmers to add dimension the eyes. The eye shadow goes on sheer and applies on smoothly and softly. The formula is buildable to appear more pigmented, however, the shade Banana will obviously only provide slightly intense colour to the lids. It is best to use the shade Banana as a base for the lids, on it's own as an allover eye shadow and as a highlighter to highlight the brow bone and inner corners of the eyes.  

The finish of Banana is absolutely beautiful as an allover eye shadow as it brightens the eyes. The swatch of the eye shadow in the above photo really doesn't do it justice. Being a sheer finish eye shadow, I was really surprised that the formula was long lasting as it claims as there were no fall-outs whatsoever and the soft and subtle intensity of the shade was still visible at the end of the day. Under sunlight, you could notice a beautiful glow to the eyes. 

The sheer wash of the shade Banana is stunning and this shade is unique and different from all the other eye shadows in my collection. I typically opt for purple, taupe, nude and dark hues of eye shadow and never really expected to choose this shade, which was actually recommended to me. I was recommended this shade by the lovely Sisley representative at David Jones Queensplaza store as I had told her that I have too many shades of eye shadow in my collection that I had no intention to expand my collection any further. So, I'm really glad that I chose to purchase Sisley Phyto-Ombre Eclat eye shadow as the formula is so different and not only looks lovely on, but the formula containing botanical extracts is an awesome benefit for the skin. 

I am now obsessed with Sisley Phyto-Ombre Eclat Long Lasting Eye Shadows and I highly recommend swatching these shades as the counter to see the effect yourself. 

Have you tried Sisley Phyto-Ombre Eclat Long Lasting Eye Shadows before? What do you think of the quality of these eye shadows?

xx Rose

Dermalogica Skin Hydrating Booster SPF30

Regardless of whether you are standing outside under the clouds or rain, the sun rays are always shining directly onto our skin and harming the skin by accelerating the aging process and damaging the texture and tone of our skin, so it is important to protect the skin by applying sunscreen. Dermalogica Solar Defense Booster SPF30 (A$63/50ml) is one of my favourite sunscreens which I use as a base to protect my skin and especially areas of my skin which are notoriously prone to sun damage (e.g., cheeks and chest) from harmful UVA and UVB rays. The formula contains highly-active botanical extracts and vitamins to help scavenge for free-radicals in order to decelerate the aging process of skin. Solar Defense Booster is an opaque white cream which is lightweight and very easy to spread across the skin for an even distribution. The formula doesn't leave my skin feeling greasy at all, so I always like to apply a thin layer to my face, neck and decolletage. I love the very high sun protection factor, so for moisturisers which do not contain any SPF, I typically mix a 1:1 ratio to ensure my skin is protected from the sun during the day. Also, due to the creamy white opaque texture, I sometimes mix this formula with liquid foundations that are too dark for my skin tone. This works a treat all the time and is a really good quick-fix when you don't have the right foundation shade with you due to a change in season where you skin tone has gone lighter.

Which products do you use to protect your skin from the sun rays?

xx Rose

Product was provided for consideration only. This review is 100% based on my own thoughts and opinions. I am not affiliated with Dermalogica and did not receive remuneration to post this product review. 

NEW Weleda Sea Buckthorn Replenishing Body Lotion

Weleda uses 100% natural and organic plant and fruit extracts to formulate products for the face and body as well as specially formulated baby care products, first aid care and medicines to treat hay fever and other allergies.  For those of you who are not familiar with Weleda, the company has been formulating natural-based products using ingredients which have been grown in Biodynamic® gardens since 1921 in Switzerland. Weleda has become well-known worldwide for their premium luxury skincare products.

Weleda has recently launched their newly formulated range of vegan and organic body lotions which are formulated using natural plant and fruit extracts which help activate the skin's vital processes in order to make it feel indulgently soft, smooth and radiant. These body lotions are concentrated with rich pure oils to help maintain and/or regain skins natural balance and nurture your skin. There are four types of lotions available in this new range and these include: Pomegranate Regenerating Body Lotion (for mature skin, A$33.90/200ml), Wild Rose Pampering Body Lotion (for normal to dry skin, A$36.90/200ml), Sea Buckthorn Replenishing Body Lotion (for dry skin, A$36.90/200ml) and Citrus Hydrating Body Lotion (for normal skin, A$33.90/200ml).

I was recently given the opportunity to trial the Sea Buckthorn Replenishing Body Lotion which is formulated for dry skin. Sea Buckthorn Replenishing Body Lotion is packaged in a convenient sturdy body which is shaped in a way to prevent slippage or dropping the bottle. The pump looks super cute with a rounded pump top which dispenses the body lotion without leaving any residues which dry up and look icky at the tip. I've been notified that each pump stroke contains approximately 0.8ml, which is enough to moisturise one arm. So, each 200ml bottle provides approximately 250 strokes or 50-60 usages.

Sea Buckthorn is a vitamin rich ingredient which helps to stimulate the skins regenerative processes and the formula also contains skin-related essential fatty acids to provide hydrating and lasting care for dry skin. The formula is lightweight and gives a cooling sensation when applied to the skin. The body lotion absorbs quickly into the skin and doesn't leave any sticky or greasy residue. The formula also contains vitamin-rich oils from organic Sea Buckthorn, Mallow extract and Shea Butter to protect the skin from de-hydration. My skin feels very moisturised, smooth and soft to touch. The scent of this body lotion is absolutely divine! A burst of fresh and fruity aromatic scents escapes from this lotion and makes my skin smell beautiful!

What do you think of Weleda's new range of organic body lotions? Which Weleda body lotion would you love to try?

xx Rose

*Product was provided for consideration only. This review is 100% based on my own thoughts and opinions. I am not affiliated with Weleda and did not receive remuneration to post this product review.

Nutrimetics Nutri-Rich Gift Box

Nutrimetics is known for their range of products formulated from the purest natural ingredients with beauty needs for both men and women. This Christmas season, Nutrimetics has released the Nutrimetics Nutri-Rich Gift Box (A$74.90) which contains a limited edition Nutri-Rich Oil Golden Orb (40ml), limited edition Nutri-Rich Luminous Body Lotion (125ml) and limited edition Nutri-Rich Foaming Bath Oil (260ml), all packaged in a beautiful golden gift box. This luxurious gift set would be great for someone who loves and needs some TLC and a relaxing pampering session! 

Nutri-Rich Oil Golden Orb is Nutrimetics icon which launched 43 years ago and 'til this day still remains a beauty must-have! The body oil is housed in a beautiful keepsake golden orb and the body oil is similar to that of a solid balm which is formulated with Apricot Kernel Oil, Carrot Oil and Vitamin E to intensely soften, smooth and nourish the body. The blend has a delightful sweet scent and is highly concentrated, so I always ensure I use a small amount to evenly nourish and moisturise my skin. My skin actually smells lovely and the scent lingers a good couple of hours during the day.

Nutri-Rich Luminous Body Lotion is a lightweight and nourishing body lotion which gives a lovely satin shimmery sheen to the skin. The stain shimmery finish is very subtle and is only just noticeable when looking at your skin closely. The formula has a lovely scent, almost similar to the Nutri-Rich Oil, and works well to hydrate my elbows and knees! With the added benefit of providing a subtle shimmery finish, this body lotion is also best applied to the shoulders and chest when preparing for a beautiful evening out.

Nutri-Rich Foaming Bath Oil is the perfect addition for a relaxing pampering session with a lit candle to indulge and revive the senses! With a few drops of the bath oil, a wonderful burst of aromatic scents helps to relax the mind while deeply cleanse and intensely hydrate the skin!

Are you planning on purchasing any pampering products/gift packs for someone special?

xx Rose

Products were provided for consideration only. This review is 100% based on my own thoughts and opinions. I am not affiliated with Nutrimetics and did not receive remuneration to post this product review.  

Massive David Jones Christmas Frenzy 1 Day Sale

David Jones is hosting a 1 day Christmas Frenzy sale in-store and online on Tuesday 20th November 2012. This is a fantastic opportunity to get your Christmas shopping in early to avoid the big rush towards Christmas day. 

For 1 day only you could save:

• 15% on all full priced fragrances
• 30% on full priced women's shoes
• 20% on all full priced toys
• 30% on all full priced denim
• 30% on all manchester (excluding nursery)
• 40% on a great range of full priced cookware
• 20% when you spend $50 or more on full priced small appliances and floor-care
• 20% on all full priced items form the Christmas shop, boxed Christmas cards, and David Jones Christmas gift wrap, bags and tags

Store opening hours:

9:30am - 10pm: David Jones stores NSW, ACT and VIC
9:30am - 9pm: David Jones stores QLD, SA and WA

Online David Jones store:

6am - Midnight www.davidjones.com.au

Are you going to head to David Jones tomorrow?

xx Rose

NEW Models Prefer BB Cream

 I was recently given the opportunity to trial the new Models Prefer BB Cream (A$19.99/40ml) which is part of the new range of skin care products launched recently at Priceline. Models Prefer BB Cream is an all in one skin perfector with MP aquaFLEX, which is an ingredient which ensures moisture is locked in, skin metabolism is optimised, the dermis matrix structure (outermost layer of the skin) is protected and collagen synthesis is restored. The formula is free from parabens and fragrances and is dermatologically tested. There are a myriad of BB creams now available since they launched in Korea a few years ago. Now that these BB creams have been developed by Western and Asian beauty brands, it seems to be that the Asian BB creams have the better formulations. Models Prefer BB Cream was actually made in Korea for Priceline, so I was very excited to see how this product performs. 

 

Models Prefer BB Cream is available in two shades (Light and Medium) and I have with me the Medium shade for review. The shade Medium ended up being too dark on my MAC NC20 equivalent skin tone, so rather than putting this product to waste I mixed in a 1:1 ratio of the BB Cream and either Dermalogica Medibac Oil Free Matte or Solar Defense Booster as the consistency of both these creams are somewhat similar to Models Prefer BB Cream and they contain SPF30, which the the BB Cream does not contain. 

The texture of Modes Prefer BB Cream alone is lightweight and creamy but the best thing is that it spreads smoothly and effortlessly just the same way as a gel-like formula. As with most BB Creams in the market, Models Prefer BB Cream does not apply on sheer and does not really come close to being comparable to tinted moisturiser. The coverage of the formula is medium and one of the reasons as to why I love using this product is how well it evens skin tone and provides my skin with a perfect base and luminous healthy glow for blush to finish a day time look! Models Prefer BB Cream can be used in place of liquid foundation as it provides excellent coverage to cover minor blemishes and due to the weightless feel of the formula my skin looks natural, feels very comfortable and not at all heavy. Models Prefer BB Cream hydrates my skin very well, so there is no need to apply a base unless you prefer to wear SPF on your skin.

My skin type is combination/oily, so typically with the initial use of all foundations, tinted moisturisers and BB creams I have used in the past, I always have my fingers crossed to hope that these products have good, if not decent, oil control. With Models Prefer BB Cream, my T-zone appeared slightly shiny at the end of the day and based on my criterion in comparison to other formulas I have used, Models Prefer BB Cream performed very well to keep my skin shine-free through most of the day. In addition, I was very surprised to see that the BB Cream did not fade at all after 9 hours of wear.   

Overall, Models Prefer BB Cream is an amazing BB cream as it not only provides my skin with hydration and even skin tone, but it also covers small blemishes, controls excess oils on the skin, has excellent longevity and the product itself is so inexpensive for all the wonderful qualities it provides... it definitely is an all in one skin perfector that I highly recommend! 

Have you tried BB creams before? Which BB creams would you highly recommend?

xx Rose

 

Product was provided for consideration only. This review is 100% based on my own thoughts and opinions. I am not affiliated with Models Prefer and did not receive remuneration to post this product review. 

The Sanctuary Spa: Sanctuary Salt Scrub

The Sanctuary Salt Scrub (A$20/650g) from The Sanctuary Spa Bathing (Exfoliate) range is made from a sumptuous concoction of sea salt drenched in Coconut, Jojoba and Sweet Almond Oils to polish and refine the skin while leaving it feeling super smooth and soft to touch! 

I was very surprised to see how large this cute durable plastic jar was as it contained a huge amount of sea salt to last a few good pampering sessions. As I open the jar lid a huge burst of aromatic scent of predominantly coconut just lifted my senses! The scent is absolutely divine and using this Salt Scrub makes a great pampering session to smooth away my skin!

The Salt Scrub is comprised of very fine particles which gently buffs away flaky dry skin without any irritation at all. The feel of the Salt Scrub against my skin feels really luxurious and the scent is just so amazing! I love all products which contain coconut! The scent also lingers awhile after using the product, which is a great thing! I use this Salt Scrub once per week to ensure my skin is well exfoliated and stays smooth! The Sanctuary Salt Scrub is a lovely and delightfully scented 'at home' spa quality product which really does help to soothe and rejuvenate the body like you would at a luxury spa, but in the comfort of your own home!

Do you use a salt scrub to exfoliate your skin?

xx Rose 

Product was provided for consideration only. This review is 100% based on my own thoughts and opinions. I am not affiliated with The Sanctuary Spa and did not receive remuneration to post this product review. 

NEW Dermalogica Sheer/Cover Tint SPF20

Dermalogica has recently launched two multifunctional and dermatologist tested formulas to provide lasting coverage for a smooth, even finish while simultaneously deliver superlative skin treatment and protection benefits. Dermalogica introduces the new Dermalogica Sheer Tint SPF20 (A$77/40ml) and Dermalogica Cover Tint SPF 20 (A$74/40ml).

Dermalogica Sheer Tint SPF20 provides the lightest coverage between the two new formulas and was actually re-formulated based on Sheet Tint Moisture SPF15 to provide higher broad spectrum defence against UVA and UVB damage and skin treatment benefits for the skin. These skin benefits include even skin tone, soften fine lines and effective moisturisation via the key ingredient Hyaluronic Acid, by the means of allowing the skin to hydrate adequately during the course of the day. The formula also includes Hydrolysed Pearl amino acids and antioxidant Walnut Seed to help improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Dermalogica products are free from artificial fragrances and colours.

Swatch of Dermalogica Sheer Tint SPF20.

I was very excited to trial the new Dermalogica Sheer Tint SPF20* as any product with combined effects of sun protection and skin treatment would be right up my alley. The sun up here in Brisbane has already changed my skin tone and it’s not even summer yet! Dermalogica Sheer Tint SPF20 has a relatively thick consistency, which was quite surprising as typically sheer coverage foundation formulas are thin in consistency. Despite the thick consistency, the formula has a silicone feel to it, so the formula ended up being very easy to spread using a foundation brush and it just melts onto the skin! You can see a swatch of the product in the photo above and you can just notice below the swatch (in the same photo) what the product looks like when blended onto my skin.

I absolutely adore the pleasant scent of this formula as it is reminiscent of soft aromatic Lavender (my fave scent!), this makes application quite relaxing! On my combination/oily skin type, based on applying Dermalogica MediBac Oil Free Matte with SPF30*, Dermalogica Sheer Tint SPF20 followed by Burberry Luminous Compact Powder Foundation, my skin did end up appearing slightly dewy at the end of the day, however 'shiny' in a nice way. So, if you have a very oily skin type, I would definitely recommend applying powder foundation/finishing powder to absorb excess oils. The coverage is sheer, yet provides just the right amount of coverage to even my complexion and conceal small blemishes - consistent to that of tinted moisturiser. The overall look appears very natural yet gives your complexion a healthy looking finish suitable for everyday wear. Dermalogica Sheer Tint SPF20 is a great alternative for liquid foundation as I sometimes find liquid foundation a little too heavy for work wear. However, if you prefer more coverage, then the Dermalogica Cover Tint SPF20 would be suited for you.

Dermalogica Cover Tint SPF20 provides more coverage than the sheer tint and features long-lasting coverage which is buildable to provide a finish equivalent to most liquid foundations. The creamy formula contains natural, light-diffusing ingredients and Iron Oxides to balance and even skin tone while softening fine lines. The formula also contains SPF20 to protect the skin from sun damage. The added benefits of the formula arise from the concoction of Hydrolysed Pearl and extracts of Ginseng, Purslane and Centella to firm and smooth the skin and marine extracts aid to hydrate the skin, minimise fine lines and even skin tone.

Dermalogica Sheer/Cover Tint SPF20 is available in the shades Light, Medium and Dark.

Dermalogica is available now from Dermalogica salons and David Jones stores nationally. 

What are your thoughts on products which are multifunctional?

xx Rose


*Product was provided for consideration only. This review is 100% based on my own thoughts and opinions. I am not affiliated with Dermalogica and did not receive remuneration to post this product review.

Vogue Online Shopping Night

Vogue Online Shopping Night (#VOSN) is happening again on Monday 26th of November! For one day and one night only, Vogue has collaborated with a myriad of spiffy beauty and fashion online retailers to bring you exclusive offers including special discounts, bonuses and gifts with your online purchase.   

Here are a few offers which have been revealed from my favourite online retailers, to view the full list of participating retailers and their online store offers click here:

 ASOS

Enjoy 15% off everything (including sale times, however, some brands may be excluded) - plus a special surprise which will be announced on Sunday 25th of  November, the day before the VOSN event.  

Enter promo code: ASOSXMAS (valid from midday on 26th to midnight on 29th November)

 BECCA

Receive 25% your order plus free standard shipping.  

Enter promo code: Vogue13 (valid from midday on 26th November)

 

First 50 shoppers  to spend A$150 will receive a bonus BECCA Anniversary Palette in Dusty Rose.

First 50 shoppers to include the new Radiant Skin Satin Finish Foundation (A$70) in their A$150 order will receive an additional gift - Radiance Primer (A$55).

Estee Lauder

With your purchase of A$100 or more, enjoy free shipping and Eye Trio gift (valued at over A$75) containing deluxe-sized samples of Advanced Night Repair Serum and Eye creme, and Sumptuous Bold Mascara all in a cute blue jacquard cosmetic bag. Plus select an additional 2 free samples of your choice at checkout.  

Enter promo code: ELVOGUE (valid midday to midnight on 26th November)

La Praire

With your purchase of A$200 or more, receive a deluxe travel size Advanced Marine biology Revitalizing Emulsion Face, Eyes, Neck 15ml and Foaming Mousse Cleanser, 40ml, (valued at A$130) plus a bonus $50 gift voucher to use with your next online purchase.

Valid from midday on 26th November, while stocks last. A$50 gift voucher is valid until 31 January 2013.

Mecca Cosmetica

The first 250 customers will receive an exclusive Beauty Icons Pack made up of 5 best-selling minis: NARS Orgasm Blush, Eve Lom Cleanser and Muslin Cloth, Dr. Dennis Gross All-in-one Facial Cleanser with Toner, REN Active 7 Gel Eclat Contour Des Yeux and Dr. Brandt Flexitone BB Cream. 

Valid from midday on 26th November, while stocks last. 

I took up this offer during last years VOSN and you can have a look at the goodies I received with my purchase here. FYI shipping for 1-2 products is A$10, 3-5 products A$15 and over 6 products A$20.

sass & bide

Enjoy 10% off full priced items.

Enter promo code: VOGUE (valid from midday on 26th November)

Sportsgirl

Enjoy 20% off your total order plus receive a bonus Sportsgirl Eco Cup (available while stocks last).

Enter promo code: BigNightIn (valid from midday on 26th November)

Be sure to check out all the details here and you could also follow the hash tag #VOSN via Twitter to keep up with all the goss leading up to the big event.

Which offers are you going to consider on VOSN?

xx Rose

Pantene Beautiful Lengths Campaign

 This week marks the launch of Pantene’s inaugural National Donate Your Hair Week, part of Pantene’s Beautiful Lengths charity campaign in partnership with the charity Look Good…Feel Better. The Pantene Beautiful Lengths program takes place between Monday 12^th and Sunday 18^th of November 2012 nationwide and is the first of its kind in Australia to inspire women to grow, cut and donate their hair to be turned into real-hair wigs for women who have lost their hair due to cancer treatment. 

For those who are unaware of this program, Beautiful Lengths is a charity campaign, which launched in 2006 in North America to provide natural hair turned into wigs for women who have lost their own through cancer treatment. Since 2006, a remarkable 303,998 (and still counting) ponytails have been donated! That is enough to create 24,000 real wigs, so it takes about 12 ponytails to create one wig! The campaign has spiralled to huge success and the Beautiful Lengths campaign has since been launched in the UK and Belgium, among other countries. 

The launch event of Pantene’s Beautiful Lengths campaign was held on Monday 12^th November down at Martin Place in Sydney and Pantene ambassadors Barney Martin and Zoe Foster led a group of 54 women who donated their hair to the campaign.

Journalist, blogger and beauty expert, Zoe was the host for the event and was on hand to offer hair styling advice and tips to participants, while expert stylist Barney Martin and his team provided complementary haircuts to all who donated their ponytails. 

Barney – ‘I was so overwhelmed by the generosity of the women turned up to donate their hair to Pantene Beautiful Lengths. I’m so proud to have been part of this brilliant campaign and I hope women across Australia continue to donate and go short for summer – there’s no better reason to!’

Zoe – ‘ Being able to experience firsthand the women giving up their beautiful luscious locks to donate to Pantene Beautiful Lengths was very inspiring and humbling. I loved being able to offer them advice on their new short styles and they all left looking truly fabulous. Being part of Pantene’s campaign to support women with cancer has been as amazing experience so far and I hope lots more women decide to chop off their ponytails ready for summer.’

If you’re keen to chop your locks any time soon then now would be a fantastic opportunity not only to re-style your new hair look, but to also donate your hair for a great cause. If you do wish to pledge your ponytail, you must check the following requirements:

• Each hair donation must be at least 8 inches or 20 cm long.
• Hair may be coloured with vegetable dyes, rinses and semi-permanent dyes. It cannot be bleached, permanently coloured or chemically treated.
• Grey hair is difficult to use in the wid-making process, so hair may not be more than 5% grey at the time of donation.

If you would like to participate and donate your ponytail in Pantene’s Beautiful Lengths campaign, please visit the follow site: www.beautifullengths.com.au.

Are you keen to donate your ponytail this week for Pantene's Beautiful Lengths campaign?

xx Rose