Aurora Spa Rituals Shampoo and Conditioner Review

I received samples of Aurora Spa Rituals Rose Otto & Clarifying Shampoo and Burdock & Rose Revitalising Conditoner in my BB back in August.

I purchased the full-sized products from www.aurorasparetreat.com.au because I loved the shampoo and conditioner so much.  Now they have had a bit of a name change but I think they are basically the same product, though I don't find the conditioner is quite AS moisturising as the sample was.  Both come in handy pump bottles which just sit in the shower, no fussing with lids and squeezing out too much product.

 

Rose and Nettle Revitalising Shampoo.  RRP $40 - 500ml  This would have to be my favourite of the two. Contains natural botanicals such as Rose, Aloe, Wheat protein, Rose Geranium oil, Nettle, Ylang Ylang, Cedarwood oil, Lavender and Frankincense.   Smells yummy and I often find myself sniffing the bottle when I see it in the bathroom. 

This is a natural shampoo and it doesn't lather, you just massage a small amount all over your scalp and then rinse it out thoroughly.  I have really long hair and I only ever wash my scalp, there is enough shampoo as you rinse it out to cleanse your strands.  You don't want to strip your hair of all its natural oils.  This shampoo is really gentle but does a good job of removing any greasy build up.

Rose and Burdock Replenishing Conditioner.   RRP $40 - 500ml.  Contains most of the yummy ingredients in the shampoo with the addition of Coconut oil, Burdock and Quandong extract.  Leaves my hair silky, shiny, tangle-free and smelling delicious.  Both these products have a lovely unique natural scent to them.

I have very dry hair and while this is a sufficient conditioner for daily use,  because I don't wash my hair more than once a week I find my hair is dry within a couple of days.  I prefer to use a hair conditioning treatment after shampooing because the conditioning effects lasts longer.

I love that these are natural products and contain no chemical nasties, I will definitely repurchase the shampoo again.  I guess because it is the only Shampoo/Conditoner Aurora Spa Rituals make it is more for normal hair, I would definitely be interested if they ever brought out a conditioner specifically for dry hair.

KUU Konjac Sponge Review

When I received this in my LHI Eco Box I was a little sceptical.  It didn't look very attractive, felt very strange and I was a bit reluctant to try this product.

I am glad I got over my aversion because this is an amazing little 'all natural' sponge made from a vegetable plant root.  It feels so soft on your skin, you wouldn't think something so gentle would do such a good job of totally cleansing your skin.  Dries rock hard but all you have to do when you want to use it again is soak in warm water.

Gently exfoliates while cleansing your skin of all make up, oil and dirt.  You can use this just with warm water or a tiny bit of cleanser, I found that it removed all my makeup including mascara and then you just rinse it clean and hang it up on the string embedded into the sponge to dry for next time.

There is a Pure sponge with no added clay available for people who cannot use products on their skin,  this is ideal as you can just use water.  It does a terrific job of cleansing your skin without the need for soap or lotion which might irritate sensitive skin.  There is also a sponge for babies and children and is recommended for those suffering from eczema.

 I received the Sponge with French Red Clay, this is what gives it a red colour. 

When I rinsed the sponge out with water I was expecting the clay to rinse out too but it was clear, I think the sponge is just naturally dyed from the clay.  French Red Clay comes from Hematite iron and the red colour is the result of the copper oxides contained in the clay.

The benefits of French Red Clay is its ability to cleanse, exfoliate and detoxify the skin.

This is what KUU have to say on their website;

The beauty of the sponge is its simplicity. It is naturally alkaline to balance the acidity of the skins impurities and oils.

The Red clay sponge is loaded with Iron Oxide. This sponge deep cleanses and exfoliates the skin from the layers of dead cells and accelerates the regeneration process to leave the skin hydrated and looking radiant.
It will leave a soothing effect on irritated, sunburnt and sensitive skin. It can also help with the rosacea condition.

Ideal for mature and/or dry skin that needs rejuvenating. Reduces the appearance of fine lines and broken capillaries.

The KUU Konjac Sponge can be used on its own or with your favourite cleanser. But remember just a tiny amount goes a long way as the sponge delivers more lather than usual. Better for your skin, better for the environment and your pocket!

You can purchase sponges for all skin types and one will last approx 3 months with daily use. RRP is $8.95, this sponge is definitely worth a try, it really works.

www.kuukonjac.com.au

Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think of this amazing little sponge.

Kosmea Daily Skincare Review

Recently I purchased a Discover Collection from Kosmea, RRP $39.95.

The Discover Collection contains 6 mini products which are great for travel or if you just want to try some of their range before you purchase the full-sized items.

I received the following;

Skin Clinic™ Certified Organic Rose Hip Oil 20mL

Purifying Cream Cleanser 20mL

Clarifying Facial Wash 20mL

Daily Facial Exfoliant 20g

Hydrating Rosewater Mist 25mL

Replenishing Moisture Cream 20mL

If you order from the Kosmea website they have great deals where you can receive Free products and Free shipping.

I was lucky enough to receive a free bottle of Radiance 24/7 Youth Boost 20ml RRP $39.95.

Kosmea is an Australian Company which sells a range of organic skincare products which are all wonderful but a couple really stand out for me and I use them in my daily skincare routine.  Radiance 24/7 Youth Boost and Hydrating Rosewater Mist are the products I would like to review today.

Radiance 24/7 Youth Boost - this anti-oxidant rich oil contains Certified Organic; Rosehip oil, Seabuckthorn oil, Pomegranate oil and Camellia oil.  Kosmea claim that this oil "Smooths fine lines and wrinkles, preserves the moisture and elasticity of the skin, revitalises the appearance of the skin and protects against the visible signs of skin ageing."

Apply 2-3 drops to dampened clean skin morning and night.  This is a non-greasy oil that absorbs right into your skin, it is best applied on dampened skin because the moisture helps the oil to absorb more readily.

I have seen noticable results in the past three months since I have incorporated this oil into my daily regime.

My skin looks healthier and I would have to say it DOES look radiant.  The best recommendations of course are when others notice and tell you how well you look.

I don't think I have used it long enough to see if it will slow the signs of ageing but it has certainly improved my skin texture so far.

The other product I am really enjoying is the Hydrating Rosewater Mist Spray RRP $19.95 125ml. 

I use this product in conjunction with the Radiance oil after I have cleansed my skin.  The added moisture helps the oil to absorb into the skin more readily as well as tightening skin pores.  Smells divinely of Roses, cool and refreshing, this product can also be used to set make-up and refresh tired skin that needs a boost of moisture during the day.  Particularly good spritz to use with mineral makeup, a couple of spritz really freshens your look during the day without adding more powder.

I have already repurchased the full-sized Rose water, it is the best spritz I have ever used.

I recommend Kosmea products to all who want a natural skincare routine which really works.  Kosmea products are available internationally and they have wonderful deals on their website. 

www.kosmea.com

Mirenesse Sexy Secret Eye Primer..........things I'm lovin

I recently received this primer in a Glamm box and I feel suitably impressed that I can review it.

Mirenesse claim that this is a 4 in 1 product that is;

A unique professional strength liquid to powder concealer with anti-wrinkle action.

It's the ideal:
• Shadow Base
• Line Filler
• Concealer
• Brightener

Key Ingredients:
• Sepilift
• Hydrolysed Silk
• Sodium Hyaluronate
• Coenzyme Q10
• Zinc Oxide


Ideal for concealing blemishes and discolorations and smoothing lines for the eyes, lips, and face.

Clinically Proven Results: Sepilift – Clinically proven to decrease number and depth of crows feet & wrinkles by up to 60% In 30 Days.

• Advanced pigment and soft focus silk infused light reflective technology fills in and instantly diffuses fine lines, redness and creates a more youthful, fresh looking eye area.
• Eye makeup stays in place for over 18 hours!
• Helps to keep blemishes, dark circles and skin discolouration concealed while actively treating them.

I have only used this as an eye primer so far and it is great stuff!

I wore this primer on two occasions, my son's Year 6 graduation night and all day Christmas Shopping yesterday.  Both were very hot sweaty conditions and my eye shadow didn't budge at all.  My eyelids stayed matte, no greasy build up in the creases and the three shades I used stayed defined.

This is a light foundation shade which you just dot all around your eye area and lightly tap using the warmth of your finger to blend in the concealer/primer.  I find it leaves a really nice base to apply eyeshadow, it isn't sticky and makes shadow application easier.  There is no fall out and works with budget eyeshadow just as well as the more expensive kind.

I am so impressed with all the Mirenesse products I have trialled so far I don't know why it took me so long to discover them.

Eye of Horus Mascara...........things I'm lovin

I have been using this mascara for a few months now and I must say I am really impressed with this product.

I have sensitive, allergy eyes and have to be very careful what I use.

I have had no reactions at all and that is a wonderful thing when you suffer from itchy eyes.

This is what the company has to say on their website.

Ideal for sensitive eyes Eye of Horus Goddess Mascara strengthens and lengthens lashes.
Naturally formulated in the style of the ancient Egyptians with plant based ingredients and Waxes including:

         Carnauba Wax
         Beeswax
         Rice Bran Wax
         Candelilla Wax

Designed to accentuate and enhance the natural beauty of your Lashes.

         Flexible brush glides with lashes and curls and enhances lashes naturally
         Wont irritate eyes or sting
         Easily removable use warm water to melt and dissolve waxes
         Coats lashes evenly
         Assist in lash growth
         Natural formula wont clump or clog
         Conditions and strengthens lash structure
         Treatment that cares for your lashes

That is a LOT of claims to live up too but I have to say that this mascara does exactly what they say it's going too.

Luscious deep black mascara.  Applies easily, separating each lash and lengthening, no clumping.  I find that I only need apply one coat to achieve a perfect lash look.  This mascara doesn't flake or leave you with panda eyes and looks just as good and fresh at the end of the day as when first applied.

The brush is the perfect applicator as it allows you to get right to the roots of your lashes without smudging mascara over your lids or under eye area, you can also get right into the corner for those hard to reach little lashes.

I really like the dark shade of this mascara, it is the blackest I have ever come across,  I can get away without wearing eyeliner because it is just so black and really frames the colour of my eyes perfectly.

The biggy for me is I don't get itchy red eyes and that is such a relief and comfort to know I won't have to remove my makeup when I am out and about.

RRP $30 each or you can purchase an Ultimate Goddess Essentials pack which at time of writing this includes; Mascara, Eye Pencil, Liquid Define Liner, Compact Mirror, Cleansing Cloth and Sharpener, $120 value for only $79.  The pack comes with a reusable makeup bag and this holds quite a lot of cosmetics, what I really like about the bag is you can see what's in it and it makes it really easy to find stuff.

I highly recommend these products from a fabulous Australian company, their customer service is as wonderful as their cosmetics.

Mirenesse Power Clear D-Blemish Cleansing Gel.........things I'm lovin

I received this product as part of my December Glam Box from Mirenesse.

At first I was a little disappointed because I thought this product was targeted towards blemish prone skin and I am more interested in anti-ageing products.

This cleanser in reality suits all skin types and I would thoroughly recommend it to everyone.

I love this stuff!

This is a clear gel that smells like peppermint, it even tastes like peppermint, erm.........I accidently got some in my mouth and was pleasantly surprised.  I don't recommend you try this at home.

The gel lathers up to a creamy texture, leaves your skin clean, fresh and tingly.

What I liked is that I cleansed my face thoroughly it didn't sting my eyes and my skin wasn't dry or tight afterwards.

Removed every bit of my make-up and when I went over with a cleansing cloth just to make sure my face was clean the cloth picked up nothing.

I have read reviews that this product is great for teenage acne but I think it is gentle enough for everybody.

This product is part of a blemish fighting system which includes the cleanser, moisturiser, mask and gel treatment, they contain lots of  natural ingredients to gently help re-balance acne prone skin.

Mirenesse on their website have this to say about their product;

Ideal for blemished or stressed skin or skin experiencing inflammation and breakouts.

Blemishes diminish in as little as 7 days, the longer you use the system the clearer your skin will be.

Skin is instantly renewed, refined and clear.
• A glorious gel texture foam rapidly emulsifies to effectively cleanse and refine
• Rebalances skins moisture and oil zones
• Cools and calms skin to sooth blemishes
• Skin feels fresher and smoother
• Purifies pores
• Minimizes fine lines
• Controls and prevents breakouts through cleansing moisturising and exfoliation

I think the peppermint and lavender essential oils help to tone and calm your skin.

With my skin type DRY I would not necessarily use all the products in this range but I am now a big fan of this facial wash.  I don't feel clean unless I wash my face and having dry skin it is very hard to find products gentle enough that they don't strip your skin of natural oils.  I feel this product certainly cleanses your face of dirt and excess oil while the peppermint acts like a natural toner to reduce pore size.

The only issue I have with this product is that for a gel it's a little runny and would be better suited if it came in a pump bottle instead of a tube so you have more control over how much product you use.  A little goes a long way.

RRP $49.50 for 60g.  $36.85 for VIP or if your lucky you might get it as part of your Glam Box with 4 other products for $15.

Lust Have It December 2012

Another underwelming month from LHI.

CATWALK BY TIGI SESSIONS SERIES DRY SHAMPOO 96ml sample, 250ml RRP $29.95, another dry shampoo??  I am a little confused as it says on the card this is suppose to be a finishing spray which would have been more useful to my hair type instead of more dry shampoo I never use.

APHRODITE MINERAL EYE SHADOW full-size RRP $24.95,  I received Champagne which is a gold glitter.  I am too old for glitter, it shows up every line around mature eyes, not impressed.

LANOPEARL DR. DERMAX ULTRA LIFT CREAM 10ml sample jar, 50ml RRP $39.60.  This at least is interesting, a wrinkle relaxing cream which helps prevent new wrinkles.  You apply twice daily to creases and frown lines.

GLASSHOUSE FRAGRANCES HAND CREME 5ml sample x 2, 140ml RRP $24.95.  I received Kakadu-Waterlily and Marseille-Gardenia samples. 

BIOXIDEA MIRACLE 24 FACE LIFT 1 sample, RRP $49.90 3 pack.  Another one of those freaky cold face masks, I do not like using these and they make me break out.

The Exfoliating glove didn't turn up in time to be packed, RRP $9.50, I hope this will be an extra in January's box not become part of it.

There was also a sample of Marc Jacobs Daisy, smells just like every other floral perfume on the market.  For a change why can't we have a musk or amber based perfume?

Definitely no Christmas Spirit this year for us mere customers unless you are a VIP member. They are set to receive three full-sized products in their own special box. So far I have seen Mascara, full-size moisturiser and Everyday Minerals blusher and eyeshadow.  I don't agree with this VIP nonsense, not everyone can afford an annual subscripton and it shouldn't make them any less valuable/special as VIP's.   I feel Bellabox do a much better job by treating all of their customers like VIP's, everyone gets special gifts, no exceptions.

LHI WERE my favourite beauty box this year but something has definitely gone wrong and I feel their samples and customer service have declined.  I'm just not feeling the love anymore LHI............Maybe they have taken on too much too quickly with the takeover of Glossy Box and preparing to break into the New Zealand market. Unfortunately their hunt for new customers leaves me feeling that their old customers are left dangling with sub-standard boxes. 

LHI are too slow, they deliver too late.  A monthly box should be enjoyed during THAT month not at the end of it.   Their online shop where we go to spend our beauty points doesn't even stock the majority of products you are sampling.  You have to pay postage (BB offer free) and you don't receive free samples with your order.  All things that BB do extremely well and BB ALWAYS leave me feeling like a VIP customer.  LHI lacks that professional edge.

LHI's no profiles has really been telling for me.  I simply have no use for products which do not suit my skin and hair type and as I buy this little box of goodies for myself, if I am not going to receive samples I can use there is no point being a member any longer.  I will state again and again if you don't get the samples to the right clientele you are doing yourself, the companies you represent and your customers a great dis-service.

Three full-sized products aside I am really glad I never forked out ALL that money for a Annual VIP subscription I like the freedom of not being locked in for a whole year so I can leave when I have had enough and take my hard earned money elsewhere.

As another blogger said she keeps giving them one more month just in case it's good and I feel that's what I am doing too.

bellabox December 2012

Ok I am probably going to be shot down in flames for this but............I hated this month's bellabox.

I think I am probably the only person on the planet that does but I was very disappointed with my box.

The first thing out of the box which has been on the top of everyone's "WOW" factor is the Savoir Faire Limited Edition Kit.  The first disappointment for me was that I received the 'Winter' kit.  I am a very pale skinned woman and these colours are oh so very dark that I can't wear them without coming off Goth.   This kit does not match my skintone at all, great if your young and beautiful not so great when your 'old-er' and wrinkly.  Secondly I hate Savoir Faire.  This is an Australian company who claim to sell natural premium cosmetics that are made in China, the only thing premium about them is what they charge.  This has already gone in the bin.  RRP $110

ALLEGRE RHODES HAND AND NAIL CREAM - SWEET APPLE & GRAPERUIT, teeny tiny sample, 175ml RRP $32.95 - The smell is a hideous, overpowering floral scent that burned my sinuses.  Thin, watery and definitley not moisturising enough for hand cream.  This too has been binned.

JOHN FRIEDA FRIZZ-EASE SECRET WEAPON FLAWLESS FINISHING CREAM - 30ml sample, 113g RRP $16.99, John Frieda has been around for a long time, a little bit of this cream goes a long way otherwise it leaves your hair greasy and lank.  Concentrate at the ends only.

EMERGINC MULTI FRUIT CLEANSER & EARTH HYDRATING PHYTELENE CREAM - 3ml samples, 240ml cleanser RRP $55 & 50ml phytelene cream RRP $109.  These samples are interesting but never big enough to make a educated decision to go out and purchase the full-sized products and as they are so expensive you really want to make sure you like them first.

COMPEED - 1 single use, RRP $11.95, Really bellabox??  One single heel band-aid to sample, you could have at least put in a pair for matching heels. 

So there you go another useless month for me.  Sorry for my negativity but I grow weary of the same old stuff month in month out which doesn't really match anything I am interested in trying.

If you would like to try BB for yourself please go here.

Mirenesse Glamm Box December Review

Please find all my other Glamm box reviews here.

Today I received my first shipment of Mirenesse Glamm Boxes.

Mirenesse have three Glamm Boxes available SKINCARE, MAKEUP & MIXED
I purchased all three.

Each box retails for $15 dollars with a value of up to $60 each.  You will receive between 3-5 items.

As well as the Glamm Boxes, depending on how much you spend entitles you to up to 3 free gifts, choices are limited to 4 products.  Because I purchased the 3 boxes and a VIP membership  I received two full sized gifts.

Tight Liner - Hydra Gel Eye Liner - Foxfur Brown, RRP $29.95

Velvet Lip Lift Moisture Shine Lip Gloss - No. 43 Cinnamon Pop, RRP $39.95

That's a total value of $69.90 in free gifts!!

I also subscribed to their VIP programm which costs $25 dollars a month.  The benefits of this subscription are 6 free bi-monthly beauty boxes, a $25 dollar voucher off each month for purchases over $65, Free Shipping and up to 80% discounts everyday.  For every dollar you spend you receive 10 loyalty points which can be redeemed for Beauty Vouchers which you can use against subsequent orders.  For example if you spend $45 you will receive 450 beauty points which equates to $4.50, these points are accumulative.

You don't have to be a VIP member to purchase these boxes but you will have to pay for postage.  Also you can have them auto-shipped every 30, 60, 90 or 120 days.

What I really like about Mirenesse IS they are an Australian Made and Owned company who source all their ingredient from Australian Organics & Minerals.  All their products are free from Synthetic Fragrance, Mineral Oil, Alcohol, SLS, PG, Sulphate, Petrolatum and are Hypoallergenic. 

They also make some REALLY good cosmetics and skincare products.  I am a big fan of their lipglosses.

OK I had so much fun opening all my goodies today it was like Christmas come early.

SKINCARE BOX - I received 4 products.

POWER CLEAR D-BLEMISH GEL CLEANSER 60g full-sized RRP $49.50
POWER LIFT TREATMENT CREAM ANTI-AGE 10g RRP $13.95
POWER LIFT MASSAGE BEAD CLEANSER ANTI-AGE 10g RRP $11.95
POWER LIFT FOAM CLEANSER ANTI-AGE 10g RRP $8.95

$84.35 value.

You don't get to profile what your skin type is which I would have preferred but I was lucky enough to receive three anti-age products I would be interested in trying.  I don't get blemishes but this gel smells divine, Lavender and Peppermint essential oils, so I will be giving it a go, it is not something I would normally purchase though.

MAKEUP BOX  -  I received 5 products.  With the makeup and mixed boxes you can choose which skin shade you would prefer to receive.

ABSOLUTELY RADIANT TINTED MOISTURISER AMBER PEARL 5g RRP $5.95
VELVET LIP LIFT MOISTURE SHINE No. 38 ORCHID SPARKLE 1.5g RRP $10.95
SECRET WEAPON 24hr MASCARA BLACK 4g RRP $17.95
ICON SEALER 24hr CONCEALER 1.5g RRP $10.95
SECRET WEAPON 24hr EYELINER 4.5g full-sized RRP $39.95

$85.75 value

The Orchid Sparkle Lip Gloss appears clear on me.   As with all Mirenesse lip glosses, they apply well, are non-sticky, moisturising and long lasting.  The 24hr Eyeliner comes beautifully packaged and contains real diamonds in the ingredients, the reviews on Mirenesse's website are very positive and they all say that this eyeliner lasts.

.

MIXED BOX - With this box you receive a mix of skincare and makeup.  I received 5 products.

3D FOREVER GLOSS No.7 HONEY BUNNY 14g full-sized RRP $39.95
ENDLESS YOUTH MAGICAL BEADS BOTANICAL CLEANSER 5g RRP $9.95
ABSOLUTELY FIRM TREATMENT PRIMER 10g RRP $18.55
SEXY SECRET EYE PRIMER 1.5g RRP $10.95
POWER LIFT MULTIACTION SILK CLEANSER 10g RRP $7.95

$87.35 value.

Looking forward to trying all these products.  The Honey Bunny lipgloss appears clear on me but with lots of red/pink glitter, totally non-sticky, has a slight sandy texture from the glitter and a citrus flavour.

Overall  I am really happy with these boxes.  Every item was different, no repeats in any of the boxes and I did not receive one product that I can't use.  I am really impressed.

I received 3 boxes valued at $257.45 and free gifts valued at $69.90 for a total of $327.45.  All I paid was $45 and free postage.  You just can't beat that for value.

All the samples are of a good size so I can trial each product thoroughly and purchase the full size if I like them. 

Everything about this company is first class, from the packaging, presentation, the quality of their products and their superfast customer service.

This is a company that really knows how to get it right.

Mirenesse you are brilliant.

Dr LeWinn's Private Formula Facial Polishing Gel

I suffer from dry peeling skin on my face due to Lupus and need to exfoliate regularly to keep this under control so I can wear foundation.

I have very dry skin and find most exfoliants to be very drying and they end up making my condition worse.

I am forever on the look out for products that are gently enough that they don't dry my skin out further but strong enough to remove all that scaly skin especially around my nose.

Dr LeWinn's Facial Polishing Gel is a fantastic product and I am really enjoying using it right now.

Contains microscopic jojoba wax beads which gently exfoliates and polishes without damaging the face's fragile skin. 

My experience with this product is that it does exfoliate extremely well, removes all the peeling skin from around my nose and doesn't leave my skin feeling dry and tight.

Cleanses and tightens my pores,  I have not suffered any breakouts using this product and creates a perfect base for my foundation.

Contains natural ingredients such as Aloe, Chamomile and Rosemary, with lots of jojoba beads so you can actually feel it working.  Has a lovely subtle fresh scent and washes off easily with no irritation to the eye area.

Can be used by all skin types, with my skin type (dry, mature),  I exfoliate once a week followed by a hydrating masque.

You only need a small amount applied to dampened skin, exfoliate applying gentle pressure with your fingertips for about 30 seconds concentrating on your forehead, nose and chin. 

Works a treat, I love it!!

Lust Have It Summer ECO Box 2012

This is a review for the Lust Have It 2012 Summer ECO box - Discover something natural.  You can find the Summer Eco Box review for 2014 here.

This was my first ECO box and I must say I am very disappointed with the products I received.  For $29.95 twice what you pay for their usual box I would really expect to receive MORE and for me that was sadly lacking in this quarterly box. 

LHI do not profile their customers so virtually you are receiving a 'lucky dip' of products and if they don't match your skin and hair type, that's just too bad.  LHI the boxes aren't good value if you don't match the products to the customer.

I feel LHI don't care about matching products to their customers and they are doing a great disservice to the companies they represent by not getting their products to the people who would actually purchase them.  LHI say it's too hard to profile their customers.  What is so hard about DRY, NORMAL, OILY and MATURE categories??  Bellabox do it very successfully maybe you should ring them and get a few tips.

EARTHLY BODY HAND & BODY LOTION - Moroccan Nights 88ml sample, RRP $10 - 236ml.  Just another moisturiser, this one smells like strong cheap aftershave, not something a woman would normally wear.  I didn't find it particularly moisturising and had to wash it off because after an hour the smell was just plain annoying.

DR HAUSCHKA MELLISSA DAY CREAM - 5g sample, RRP $52 - 30ml.  This moisturiser is for combination skin, GREAT except that I have dry mature skin.  This is what happens when you don't profile your customers.  UPDATE:  I used this moisturiser today, it has a strong citrus herbal aroma, thick creamy consistancy,  a pea sized amount is enough to cover your whole face and neck BUT as I expected it wasn't moisturising enough for my skin type.  Left my skin feeling tight and wanting more moisture.

WORLD ORGANIC JUNIPER BERRY CLEANSING FACE WASH - 15ml sample, RRP$27.99 - 80ml.  Just another facial wash, sorry if I sound so flat about it but how many facial washes does a girl need? They all do the same thing, nothing in this stands out from any other cleanser I have tried.  UPDATE:  Tried this product, smells strongly of old orange peel, very thin consistancy, does not lather and did not do a good job of removing my makeup as stated in the description.

WORLD ORGANIC ALMOND SEED FACE EXFOLIANT - 15ml sample, RRP $23.87 - 50ml.  Just another face exfoliant.  Can't say I am impressed by either of these World Organic products, and honestly it's pretty expensive compared to similiar products elsewhere.  UPDATE, tested this product today, smells strongly of marzipan (almonds).  It is a very thin lotion for exfoliant, you need to use quite a bit to feel it on your skin, there isn't enough almond seed to exfoliate, felt slightly gritty like when you get sand in your sunblock.  My skin did not look fresh and exfoliated after use.

DeLORENZO ELEMENTS EARTH MUD SLIDE STYLING CREME - full-size RRP $23.95.  This product is a strong hold styling product recommended for short hair.  I have waist length hair, says it all really........ANOTHER mis-matched product which doesn't help anyone.

KUU KONJAC DEEP CLEANSING KONJAC SPONGE - full size RRP $9.95.  Finally something interesting, this is a 100% natural sponge made from plant root.  I received the red one with added French Red Clay.  This is actually recommended for Dry, Sensitive and Mature Skin, Woo Hoo LHI finally got something matched right.  Used to cleanse and gently exfoliate skin and will last 2-3 months before needing to be replaced.

APHRODITE MAKE YOUR EYES POP - full size RRP $24.95, shade Rose Gold.  This is a little pot of shimmery pink with gold glitter that when applied shows no colour pay off at all and leaves you looking like a Christmas decoration due to the glittery fall out.  I like my eyeshadow to be on my eyes NOT the rest of my face.  Another mis-matched product, I can't wear shimmer and glitter because it accentuates every single line and wrinkle in mature skin.  UPDATE:  I went to the Aphrodite website to try get a colour swatch for this shade because I couldn't get it to show up in a photgraph, you can't even purchase this shade.  These products are made in the US and I think they are really expensive.  If you want my recommendation and I have been using them for years, try EveryDay Minerals, they are better value and they give you the choice of Matte, Pearl and Shimmer eyeshadows.

There really needs to be some more variety in sample boxes, they are getting quite repetitive and boring.

So another disappointment from LHI for me.

Yes to Blueberries Line Reducing Lip Treatment..........things I'm lovin

I recently purchased some Yes to Carrots products and I really really like them.

Firstly what I love about Yes to Inc. is their products are up to 99% natural, contain no nasties like paraben, petroleum and SLS.

Secondly they are reasonably priced.

Thirdly and most importantly they do what they say they are going to do.

Yes to Blueberries Line Reducing Lip Treatment.  I have really dry lips, I have to wear lip balm all the time because they just dry out so quickly.  Lip balms are generally all pretty much the same, they moisturise and protect your lips but need to be reapplied often.

What I found with this lip treatment after just a couple of days, my lips weren't so dry and I was even forgetting to apply lip balm.  I could go out and it would be a couple of hours before I realised my lips needed something on them as they were starting to feel a bit dry.

This lip treatment is super moisturising containing ingredients such as Shea Butter, Coconut Oil, Olive Oil, Vitamin E and of course Blueberries rich in antioxidants and which give it a lovely natural flavour.

I apply treatment twice a day on and around my lips after I cleanse and moisturise my face.  My lips are fuller, flaky skin has disappeared, I don't have to reapply lip balm as often and lines around my mouth are improved.

I would use this product just for the moisturising benefits alone but it DOES work as a line reducing treatment which is just fantastic.  I have never had another product work on the lines of my mouth as well as this.

I feel it also improves lipstick application and my lips definitely look fuller.

This lip treatment has now become a staple in my beauty regime.

Unfortunately I haven't been able to find this product available in Australia but you can purchase quite reasonably from overseas for under $10.