tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83228664141463508922024-03-19T22:55:14.071+11:00ShyCat BeautyApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comBlogger112125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-52324984747443167312013-08-05T13:17:00.000+10:002013-08-05T13:24:19.979+10:00Beauty Boxes: Lust Have It July 2013Yeah, I know, technically it's August! I've been really busy lately and haven't gotten around to reviewing my LHI box yet. I received it one day after my <a HREF= "http://shycatbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/07/bella-box-july-2013.html" TARGET= "_blank">July Bella Box</A>, so that goes to show you how slack I am! It came in another gorgeous collector box, this time pink and purple. I already have several of these and I use them to keep everything from fountain pens to small craft projects. (The Bella Box boxes, which consist of a separate box and lid, I mainly use as trays for things like nail polish, jewellery and decoden supplies.) LHI also had some interesting news this month, and I'll go into it at the end of this post. But let's see what was inside!<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/LHIjul13_zpsbbd7e15b.jpg"></CENTER><b>* Nude By Nature Natural Tinted Mineral Moisturiser with Sunscreen</B>, full size 30ml.<br />
Interestingly, I received the Nude By Nature BB Cream a few boxes ago, and I came to the conclusion that I would rather use it as a tinted moisturiser. And now here is their actual tinted moisturiser! I'll be very interested to do a comparison of the two. <br />
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<b>* Knotties by Condition Culture Hair Ties</B>, 2 pieces. <br />
These hair ties promise not to leave that kink in your hair after using them that normal hair elastics do. I haven't tried them yet myself, but my friend Mrs. M said her hair was less kinky after trying them. The card suggests that you can also wear them around your wrists, an idea that I like. I have to admit, a few months ago I saw a blog post on how to make these yourself with a length of elastic bought from the craft store. However, it's probably easier buying these instead of trying to source wide leopard-print elastic! <br />
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<b>* ColorSmash by Condition Culture Hair Shadow</B>, {not sure if full-size or sample}.<br />
Finally, a hair product for those of us who'd be sent home if we rocked up to work with turquoise-coloured hair! Again, I'd seen a blog post a few months ago about temporarily colouring your hair with chalk pastels, but it's good to see products especially for the purpose starting to come out. I was lucky to get the trendy teal, and Mrs. M received a lovely marone colour. I'm not sure how it will come out on my dark hair, but I'll give it a try this weekend!<br />
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<b>* Schwarzkopf Extra Care Volume Powder</B>, full-size (?) 10g.<br />
I had to laugh when I saw this because my hair is so thick and boofy, it doesn't need any extra volume! Although it does get a little flatter than normal as washday is approaching, so it might be handy for those days. There's very little that I rule out when it comes to beauty products!<br />
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<b>* Swisse Pomegranate Hand Cream</B>, sample size 50ml.<br />
I was happy when I saw this product. I received one of these a few boxes ago, and I was sad when it ran out. It's so handy when you're meaning to buy something and it appears like magic in your box!<br />
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<b>* Health Essentials zNano Active Gold Anti-Wrinkle Eye Patches</B>, sample size 1 pair.<br />
These eye patches promise to soothe, cool and refresh on contact with the eyes. They certainly sound appealing right now! I think I'll try them very soon.<br />
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<b>* Alexami Face Mist</B>, sample size 15ml.<br />
I received a face mist spray in my Bella Box this month as well, so I wasn't terribly enthused by this. It had leaked into the box. It smells a little soapy, but I'll keep using it and see if it improves. <br />
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<b>* BONUS: Health Essentials Maqui Berry Active</B>, sample size 6g.<br />
With Acai berries now shown to have no more nutrients in them than an orange, Maqui is the latest health food star on the block. Occasionally there will be a food or vitamin bonus in the beauty boxes, and I like that because it reminds me that healthy insides are just as important as healthy skin in looking beautiful.<br />
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<b>Summary: </B> There were a lot of products in this month's box, with face, hair and hand-care products included. The hair ties and the Maqui berry drink threw in a different dimension to the normal. The Hair Shadow is very on-trend, and I'm glad I received this as the cosmetic product instead of the same old lip gloss, etc. Overall I was very pleased with this box. <br />
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<b>Gunna Use It Right Now Rating</B>: 75%<br />
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<b>.... And the LHI News</B>: Lust Have It have released two new types of beauty boxes: a one-off Bridal Party Box and the FaB (Fashion and Beauty) Box. The FaB box is very similar in concept to the Her Fashion Box I subscribed to briefly earlier in the year. For $35, subscribers receive a selection of beauty samples plus a fashion accessory. Unfortunately there isn't much more detail than that at this stage. The website doesn't even specify how often the box is released, however the first box is the 'Spring Box', so I can only assume it's released quarterly. I unsubscribed to Her Fashion Box because I didn't think the products in the debut box were worth the hype and, despite getting the choice of 3 styles of accessory, I received something I wouldn't wear. Will the FaB box be the same?? Lust Have It are an established company with a large subscriber base already, so perhaps they'll be in a position to offer something more satisfying. Then there's the price to consider, not to mention the backlog of products I already have to use up! Then again, it's (possibly) only quarterly instead of monthly like Her Fashion Box is. Oooh, decisions, decisions!<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-20719798426059334992013-07-21T20:02:00.000+10:002013-08-05T13:13:19.152+10:00Bella Box July 2013I'm not much in the mood for writing today, but I wanted to share with you my Bella Box for July. This month's theme is Luxe Travel, and it certainly had that feel! Here are the goodies:<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/BBjul_zps9920a8d9.jpg"></CENTER><b>✽ Yu-Be Moisturising Skin Cream</B>, sample size 3g.<br />
<b>✽ La Fresh Eco-Beauty Waterproof Makeup Remover Wipes</B>, sample pack 1 wipe.<br />
<b>✽ Janesce Softening Refresher Mist</B>, sample size 25ml.<br />
<b>✽ Egyptian Magic All-Purpose Skin Cream</B>, sample size 3ml.<br />
<b>✽ Clear Scalp & Hair Beauty Therapy Shampoo & Conditioner</B>, sample bottles 50ml each.<br />
<b>✽ ModelCo Cheek + Lips Tint in Rosy Red</B>, sample size 5ml.<br />
<b>✽ BONUS Libra Hotties Heat Patch</B>, 1 pc.<br />
<b>✽ BONUS Luxe City Guides: Bangkok</B><br />
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<b>Summary:</B> Overall this was a tolerably good box. It contains most the basics you'd need for travelling. There could have been more wipes - there seem to be a range of them including nail polish remover, so a few of the others would have been nice. However, the number of products overall is generous. Unfortunately I'm not in a position to travel at the moment! But I'll use all of these products anyway. In particular the Yu-Be Cream from Japan, and the Egyptian Magic Cream seem interesting. I give this box 8/10.<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-77745357152664840842013-07-16T20:12:00.002+10:002013-07-16T20:12:17.106+10:00Lust Have It Winter EcoBox!I was excited to find my Winter EcoBox waiting for me when I got home on the weekend. The Autumn box was definitely worth waiting for, and I was hoping that this one would be no exception. Again it came in the rather stinky 'eco' hessian bag. Not even the cat wanted to play with it (and she loves fuzzy things) so I threw it in the bin. But let's see what was inside the bag:<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/LHIecoJUL13_zps6e1b46f0.jpg"></CENTER><b>* The Natural Source Mayaltha Better Breasts Cream</B>, full size 175ml.<br />
This full-sized product promises to make me firm, soothed and strengthened. There's a long list of lovely-sounding ingredients in it. It smells faintly of citrus. I may as well give it a go! This product retails at RRP $49.95, so it is a very generous addition to the box. <br />
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<b>* Grants of Australia Natural Toothpaste</B>, sample sachets, 4 x 3g.<br />
This is an interesting product, a little bit different. I hate using normal toothpaste - the mint is so strong and every brand in the supermarket is the same! I never got around to researching alternatives, and EcoBox has done it for me! As well as your standard Fresh Mint and Mild Mint, the other flavours are Mint & Aloe Vera and Orange & Cinnamon. I'll definitely try these out.<br />
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<b>* Nutri Synergy NS-5 Cuticle and Nail Complex</B>, full-size 15g.<br />
I welcome this product, as my nails are always ragged and peeling, so I don't get to paint them as often as I'd like. It matches well with the nail polish also included in the box. The product contains aloe vera, Vitamin E and many other ingredients to keep nails healthy.<br />
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<b>* Couleur Caramel Nail Polish in #45</B>, 4ml.<br />
I'm not sure if this tiny bottle is a sample size or full size. #45 is a metallic deep brick-brown which buffed up to a lovely shine. I painted it on my toenails and it only needed one coat. Couleur Caramel make a range of eco-friendly beauty products with ingredients from all over the world. <br />
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<b>* Rosehip Plus Rosehip Oil Roll-on</B>, full-size 15ml.<br />
Rosehip oil is the ingredient of the moment! I have a few of them waiting in the wings now. It <i>is</I> good for keeping my skin soft and moisturised, so I'll definitely use this... eventually! <br />
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<b>* Planet Eve Luxe Hand Creme</B>, sample size 10ml.<br />
Aside from smelling gorgeous, this rich hand cream left my hands feeling soft, and didn't react badly with my excema. I really love it. Unfortunately though, it's rather expensive at RRP $29.95 for 50ml. Oh, how I wish the sample tube was bigger!! It will have to go on my list of things to get when I'm treating myself. <br />
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<b>* Savi Organics Soothing Cream</B>, sample size 20ml.<br />
I received the Savi Wellbeing Cream in the <a HREF= "http://shycatbeauty.blogspot.com.au/2013/04/my-first-lust-have-it-eco-box_21.html" TARGET="_blank">Autumn EcoBox</A>, and this has the same divine smell. The Soothing Cream is especially designed for sensitive and inflamed skin. I wonder if that includes eczema? I'll let you know!<br />
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<b>Summary:</B> I'd never heard of most of the products in this box, so it was a good introduction to lots of new brands. I was slightly disappointed that there were no hair products this time, as I was about to go and wash my hair when I opened it! It was a little heavy on the skin/hand care side. With 3 (possibly 4) full-sized products, it's good value. I'll definitely use everything in this box, so I'm happy.<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-21960076411323765182013-06-29T11:07:00.000+10:002013-06-29T11:16:21.632+10:00Collective Haul, Part 2Welcome to Part 2 of my approximately April-June collective haul! First of all are some purchases from Chemist Warehouse. I re-stocked my Comvita Medihoney Eczema Cream, which I find invaluable for keeping my eczema from getting too out of hand. Also below is the Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain, in a gorgeous lavender shade called <i>Darling Cherie</I>. (See last photo for a swatch.) This new product is a revolutionary cross between lip balm and lip stain! I just happened to be at Chemist Warehouse during their half-price makeup sale, and I couldn't resist. I also bought a couple of deodorants - not for myself though! For a secret purpose that I'll unveil soon.<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/haulpt2-1_zps0937021e.jpg"></CENTER>The next haul was from Priceline. I had the day off and somehow found myself at the big Priceline in the city. How do these things happen?? I think I was quite restrained, but I'd just spent a lot on magazines and craft supplies, so that probably had something to do with it. I purchased an Australis Colour Inject Mineral Lipstick in <i>Make A Wish</I>, a dark, slightly salmony coral (again, see last photo for a swatch). There's a Models Prefer Sponge Tip brush, because I had no way of applying the powder eyeliners I bought from <a HREF= "http://shycatbeauty.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/etsy-shop-haul-ananda-beauty.html" TARGET= "_blank">Ananda Beauty</A> a few months ago. I hope it'll do the trick. I'm still a bit derpy with eyeliners! Bio-Oil has been around for ages, but I'd seen a few good reviews for it lately, so I guess it's been on my mind. I finally decided to try it. <br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/haulpt2-2_zpsc3e778f3.jpg"></CENTER>The Trilogy Hydrating Facial Mist was a complete indulgence purchase! I was feeling a bit hot and tired from walking around all afternoon, and was feeling a strong need for a spritz of facial spray. I'm in love with that signature Trilogy smell, so again, I couldn't resist. Last but not least is the Models Prefer Lipstick Organiser. As you might have guessed, I'm becoming more interested in lip colour lately. My latest obsession has been to have a range of different lip colours to match every (or at least most!) of my eye palettes. Hence the fairly extreme difference between the two colours I've swatched here!<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/haulpt2-3_zps84b11ec0.jpg"><br />
<i>Photo taken under my daylight lamp.</I></CENTER>My makeup basket was just getting too full of eyeshadows and all my new lipsticks and glosses. I need to re-organise! (Don't worry, there'll be photos. ツ ) I've also bought other things here and there, but it's hard to remember all the bits and pieces. It can all pass by in a blur sometimes. I'm sure other beauty addicts can relate! Stay tuned for an epic Empties post soon!<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER><h4><font COLOR="mediumvioletred">Might You Be Interested In...</FONT></H4><a HREF= "http://shycatbeauty.blogspot.com/2013/06/collective-haul-part-1.html" TARGET="_blank" BORDER=0>Collective Haul, Part 1 <img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/JUNhaul3_zps24b90152.jpg" width='100'></A> <a HREF= "http://shycatbeauty.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/etsy-shop-haul-ananda-beauty.html" TARGET= "_blank">Etsy Shop Haul: Ananda Beauty <img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/ananda1_zps4f7c16f2.jpg" width='100' BORDER=0></A>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-22844135994777338522013-06-23T15:30:00.000+10:002013-06-23T15:30:01.546+10:00Beauty Boxes: Bella Box June 2013My Bella Box came this week, just one day after my Lust Have It box! I feel so decadent! The theme for this month's box is "Girl's Night In, Girl's Night Out". I like the theme, and I think it is articulated well (as they'd say on <I>Iron Chef!</I>). So without further ado, on to the products!:<br />
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<B>✔ EmerginC Vitamin C + Retinol Mask <I>AND</I> Hyper-Vitalizer Cream</B>, sample sizes 3ml each. <br />
I've received EmerginC products before (different ones) and really liked them. Unfortunately they're quite expensive, but they're definitely on my list of 'I'd buy it if I won Lotto' products. I love the innovative sachets as well, which are made of sturdy cardboard and stand up on their own. I'd like to try these soon.<br />
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<B>✔ Toni&Guy Meet Wardrobe Creative Texturising Glue</B>, full-size 100ml.<br />
I had to laugh when I saw the name of this product - who wants to put glue in their hair?? (Although I think that's how dredlocks are made, so perhaps some people do...) I've become increasingly frustrated with my frizzy hair lately, but normally I'm too rushed or too lazy to do anything about it. Having lots of fun hair products to experiment with will hopefully motivate me to do something about it! <br />
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<B>✔ Montagne Jeunesse Passion Peel-Off Mask</B>, trial size 1 pc / 5ml.<br />
This pomegranate and passionfruit peel-off mask sounds like fun. I haven't used a peel-off mask for years; they remind me of my teenage days! According to the packet, "you'll be amazed to see how many dead skin cells show up on the masque after use!" They must know I'm a girl who likes to see visible results. ツ Montagne Jeunesse is proudly not tested on animals. <br />
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<B>✔ Simple Kind-To-Skin Cleansing Facial Wipes</B>, sample pack, 7 pcs.<br />
I've used Simple products before, and they are what they say they are - no-frills, perfume-free, good for sensitive skin. These are a basic that I'll definitely use at some point. <br />
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<B>✔ Circa Home Everyday Soap in Vanilla & Cocoa Butter</B>, full-size soap.<br />
I was glad to see this soap in my box, with its pretty packaging and sophisticated scent. I received a Circa Home soap <A HREF= "http://shycatbeauty.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/her-fashion-box-march-2013-review-new.html" TARGET="_blank">a few months ago</A> (Lilac & Orchid that time) and it was long-lasting as well as delicious-smelling. <br />
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<B>✔ Natio Nail Colour in Valentine</B>, full-size 15ml.<br />
This product isn't listed on the card, so perhaps it was a last-minute addition. It's a lovely deep red with slight orange overtones in the bottle, though they sweeten up to pink on the nail. My nails are in blech mode at the moment, they need a rest, but perhaps I'll do a Nails of the Week in a couple of weeks. <br />
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<B>✔ StreetStar Cosmetics StreetGloss Lip Gloss in Sandy Pink</B>, full-size.<br />
Unfortunately when I unboxed this lip gloss, my first impression was that the tube looked really cheaply-made. The Maybelline gloss that <A HREF= "http://shycatbeauty.blogspot.com.au/2013/03/her-fashion-box-march-2013-review-new.html" TARGET="_blank">I received a few months ago</A>, which has a very similar design, compared much more favourably. It's a bit of a shame, because the product itself is actually great! I did a bit of a swatch to show:<br />
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The colour pay-off is great, and the crushed pearls are so shiny. The formula isn't sticky at all, and doesn't make my lips feel dry. It stayed on even after I drank a coffee. The company is all-Australian, based in Melbourne, so I'd love to see them do well. If they can use a tube of the same quality as the glamorous box it comes in, I think they'll have a real winner!<br />
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<B>Summary:</B> I was very happy with this months' Bella Box. There are 7 products (8 if you count the EmerginC products separately), and 4 of them are full-sized. I'll be using every single one of these products sooner or later, which I can't say about every box! There was a good mix of face, body, hair, nails and makeup products. Bella Box was definitely the stand-out this month. <br />
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<B>Rating: 9/10<br />
Gunna Use It Right Now Rating: 75%</B><br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-65391291455285502522013-06-22T09:26:00.001+10:002013-06-22T09:27:51.192+10:00Beauty Boxes : Lust Have It June 2013I was so excited when my Lust Have It Box arrived two weeks earlier than normal! They sent an email advising that payments and postal arrangements would be occurring earlier in the month, so no-one would have to wait til the end of the month for their box. My May box came so late, it was already June, and I was too demoralised to even write a review at all. So I think it's a wonderful change. This month's box is again in the signature 'L' box. So far I've found uses for the other lidded boxes I've received, and I'm sure this one will be no different. The theme for this month is The Great Gatsby, so appropriate with the film having come out only a couple of weeks ago. I love the glamour and sophistication of the Jazz Age, so let's see what I got!:<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/LHIjun13_zps3dc2606a.jpg" width='600'></CENTER><b>❀ Batiste Dry Shampoo in Cherry Scent</B>, travel size 50ml. <br />
I like to have dry shampoo in the house for times when I'm really busy. It's not really a luxury product, but the cherry smell is appealing. The cherry more evocative of the 1950s than the 1920s I think! But it still has a touch of glamour to it.<br />
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<b>❀ Pure Fiji Hydrating Body Lotion in Coconut</B>, sample size {estimate 50ml}.<br />
I was excited to see this one. I haven't forgotten the Pure Fiji Body Butter I received last year, so when I saw the logo again, I squeed! Pure Fiji products are on my wishlist of things I'd like if I want to splurge a little, and getting this little reminder pushed them up to the top again. I'm looking forward to using this luxurious lotion.<br />
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<b>❀ Real Purity Natural Lipstick in Romantic Red</B>, sample size {estimate 2g}.<br />
The amazing blood red colour of this lipstick sample just screams 1920s! Unfortunately I don't have much occasion to wear bright red lipstick, but I do admire women who can rock a red lip. I want to step out of my comfort zone and try it one day. The disposable lipstick brush that was supplied will come in handy, too. It came with a 10% off coupon code for the Real Purity online store.<br />
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<b>❀ Aromatherapy Associates Signature Bath and Shower Oil</B>, sample vial 3ml.<br />
The name Aromatherapy Associates sounded familiar to me, so I checked back through my tags and, yes, LHI provided a moisturiser and face mask from this brand <a HREF= "http://shycatbeauty.blogspot.com.au/2012/09/beauty-boxes-lust-have-it-august-2012.html" TARGET="_blank">last August</A>. I have a good memory for beauty products, obviously! To be honest, I haven't used those products yet - they aren't suitable for my skin type so I put them near the bottom of the queue. The Bath and Shower Oil is much more appealing to me though. I opened the vial and, oh it smells divine! I'm planning on using it ASAP. I imagine if the moisturiser and face mask had come in resealable packaging instead of sachets, and I'd had a chance to smell them, I probably would have used them sooner. The smell of a product is half of its appeal to me. That's why I want to get cracking on this Bath and Shower Oil as soon as possible!<br />
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<b>❀ Doctor Babor Biogen Cellular Ultimate Repair Gel-Cream</B>, sample size {estimate 5g}.<br />
I've never heard of this brand from Germany before, so I'll be interested to give it a try. Facial moisturisers are one of my weaknesses, and I'm curious as to what a gel-cream is! It came with an offer for a free cleanser with purchase from the Doctor Babor online store. <br />
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<b>Summary:</B> Overall I have to say this box was a little ho-hum. I was excited by the Great Gatsby theme, but I don't think the products themselves lived up to that expectation. None of the products were full-sized, and there were only 5, no bonuses. I know the guarantee is for a minimum of 5 products, so I'm not complaining. To have received a couple of full-sized products and/or some nice bonus products would have been much more consistent with the luxurious, glamorous feel of the 1920s. Having said that, there were some products that I really liked and will definitely use soon. There was a good mix of hair, makeup, body and face products. <br />
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<b>Rating: 6/10</B><br />
<b>Gunna Use It Right Now Rating: 40%</B><br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-86268718224319528452013-06-09T23:07:00.000+10:002013-06-09T23:07:58.551+10:00Collective Haul, Part 1Hello! Let me show you a few things I've purchased over the last month or so. I want to try and get away from nothing but endless beauty box reviews on my dear little blog, so hopefully you should expect to find some products reviews soon, too. First up, a couple of things I bought on one of my numerous trips to Daiso recently. ❖ The hair mascara is to touch up my roots in between dyeing. I haven't tried it yet; I'll let you know how it goes. ❖ The Vitamin Yogurt Pack is a two-pack of yoghurt-based face mask. I tried the aloe vera version a while back and loved it, so I wanted to try the other 'flavours'. ❖ Thirdly is the famed Puff and Sponge Detergent that many bloggers swear by. The last few times I had been to Daiso it was sold out. Again, I haven't tried it yet, but I'll let you know how I go!<br />
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Here we have a few things from Priceline. My <STRIKE>obsession with</STRIKE> interest in Essence products continues. ❖ I already swatched the Nude Glam Nail Polish <A HREF= "http://shycatbeauty.blogspot.com.au/2013/05/nails-of-week-essence-nude-glam.html" TARGET="_blank">a couple of posts ago</A>. ❖ The essence eyeshadow, also a new shade, was such a pretty shade of bluish lavender that I couldn't resist. For $2, how can you? The shade is called <I>In The Clouds</I>. ❖ The perfume is Harajuku Lovers Eau de Toilette in Music. I first smelled this nearly a year ago and it's been on my wishlist ever since. It was less than half price, so a no-brainer, really. It's just a shame it's only the 10ml size, so it'll be for special occasions only. <br />
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Aaaaand .... more Essence products from Priceline! ❖ The Winter-themed hand creams were in the limited edition products display. I couldn't decide which scent to get, so what can a girl do? Get them all, of course! They are: <I>Apple Cinnamon Punch, Gingerbread Chai Latte</I> and <I> Caramel Hot Chocolate</I>. They all smell divine! ❖ I also purchased this Essence I ❤ Extreme Crazy Volume Mascara. My current mascara is probably a little past its expiry date and I wanted a replacement. So why not get it from my own personal brand-of-the-moment?<br />
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Thanks for reading and stay tuned for more hauls and reviews soon!<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-74953395723652125502013-06-02T18:21:00.000+10:002013-06-02T18:21:36.661+10:00Beauty Boxes: Bella Box May 2013Once again I have to apologise for posting my review long after receiving the box! Life just gets in the way sometimes. So let's move straight into the What I Got part of the post:<br />
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<B>❀ Lonvitalite C4 Coconut Milk Hydrating and Nourishing Facial Mask</B>, sample 1 piece. <br />
I am in loooove with cloth face masks and I've enjoyed the Lonvitalite products I've received before, so I'm looking forward to using this one soon! I like that the masks are colour-coded and numbered for various different skin concerns. <br />
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<B>❀ Suigo Absolute Volume Keratin Treatment</B>, sample size 100ml.<br />
I haven't heard of Suigo before, but I'm impressed already with their generously-sized sample pot. Unfortunately my hair is extremely thick, not "fine [and] lifeless", so it doesn't really suit me. It could do with "shine and a light hold" though, so I'll give it a go anyway. <br />
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<B>❀ Bloom Shadow Liner in Emerald Green</B>, full size 0.4g<br />
Yay, a Bloom product! This innovative wedge-shaped liner can be used for either precision lining or wide sweeps of colour. I have swatched it below and you can see the beautiful shimmering green colour with just a hint of gold. This is the sort of colour I would definitely wear! The pencil is a twist-up design, and unlike many cheaper designs, twists back down again too, to protect the tip. Lovely. <br />
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<B>❀ La Roche-Posay Effaclar Foaming Gel <I>AND</I> Duo</B>, sample sizes 3ml <I>AND</I> 15ml.<br />
These products from the cult French brand are paraben-free and are designed to clear oily skin. Strangely enough, I have found my skin has been getting <I>more</I> oily over the last few years as I have gotten older, not less. So I'll certainly be using these products very soon! <br />
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<B>❀ Manicare Duo Mascara Brushes</B>, full-size pack of 10.<br />
The pack contains 5 volumising and 5 curl-effect disposable mascara brushes. I suppose these could come in handy in certain circumstances - if you had a mascara that had a great formula but a terrible brush, for example. Or if you wanted to share your mascara with a friend. I can't really see any use for them myself, though. To be honest, Husband and I could probably put them to better use cleaning our computer keyboards or some other fiddly task. <br />
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<B>❀ Sanctuary Spa Covent Garden Brightening Facial Illuminating Moisture Lotion SPF 15+</B>, full-size 75ml.<br />
This generously full-sized product retails at $19.95. Sanctuary Spa Covent Garden is a UK brand that is paraben-free and isn't tested on animals. The brightening effect appeals to me, however I'm a bit paranoid with my sun protection, and I prefer the SPF factor of my daytime moisturisers to be at least 30+. That way I'm more confident of the protection lasting at least until lunchtime. I'll probably use this on dull days so at least my skin will be bright, even if the weather isn't!<br />
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<B>❀ BONUS: Nanoblur</B>, sample sachet 2ml.<br />
I saw this at Priceline a few months ago, and I tried it out on the fleshy part of my hand where I have a few wrinkles. It actually worked! Of course, the effect isn't permanent: the optical effect just reduces the look of wrinkles for a few hours, rather than actually getting rid of them. But it actually works! The irony of the situation is: I don't have wrinkles yet. Even when I'm very tired, it tends to come out as under-eye circles rather than wrinkles. So I have no use for this product (yet!). The other irony: it could be insulting if I offered this to a friend or relative! So I'm not sure what to do with it. It's nice though, to be given a product that I know works. <br />
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<B>Summary:</B> This month's Bella Box was quite generous and contained a good mix of products. I was excited to receive the Bloom and Lonvitalite products, and will certainly use most of the rest. Overall, it's not spectacularly exciting, but it's a good, solid offering.<br />
<B>Gunna Use It ASAP Rating:</B> 62.5% (5 out of 8)<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-60151595234987419492013-05-31T14:02:00.000+10:002013-05-31T14:02:46.873+10:00Nails of the Week : Essence Nude GlamA few weeks ago I was in Priceline and saw the new Essence Nude Glam nail polish range. At $2 each, I couldn't help picking myself up a bottle! I chose the shade <i>Peaches & Cream</I>, a pale salmon pink creme. Excuse my horrible cuticles and sloppy painting. I'm out of practice! <br />
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<i><b>Colour: Essence Nude Glam: Peaches & Cream. 3 coats.<br />
Topcoat: Etude House Jelly Nails Pop.<br />
Drying Agent: Essence Quick Dry Nail Art.</I></B></CENTER>I love this colour! While still very pale, the salmon is a little darker than in the bottle. Unfortunately it needed 3 coats just to get this opaque, and I still thought it was a little streaky. It also started to chip badly within 12 hours of application, which was quite disappointing. However, I've heard that using quick-dry drops can shrink the polish and make it crack and chip more quickly, so I might let it dry naturally next time and see if it fares any better. <br />
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There are 4 shades in the range. Check out this blog post from <a HREF= "http://willpaintnailsforfood.blogspot.com.au/2013/04/essence-nude-glam-swatches-and-review.html">Will Paint Nails for Food</A> for the full range. (Though my version of Peaches & Cream is a solid creme with no shimmer, it is the same colour.)<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-59130285672383902252013-05-19T18:06:00.000+10:002013-05-19T18:06:59.853+10:00Beauty Boxes : Lust Have It April 2013I need to apologise again for the lateness of my box review! I received this box about 2 weeks ago, and the reason for the delay isn't because I didn't like it! I've just been very busy lately. I did like this box, and again it came in a beautiful patterned keepsake box, which I found handy to keep my fountain pens in. So without further ado, let's see what I got:<br />
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<B>❖ Gosh Cosmetics Mono Eyeshadow in Aubergine</B>, full-size.<br />
Gosh Cosmetics comes from Denmark and according to the card, their eyeshadows come in a vast range of colours. It looks good quality and it does sound intriguing. Unfortunately, I already have several eyeshadows in dark purple shades (not least of which is the e.l.f. Mineral Eyeshadow I received in my LHI Autumn Eco box last month), so I don't think I'll keep this one. I would have preferred a nice light versatile neutral, personally.<br />
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<B>❖ Rachel K Mineral Colour Control CC Cream</B>, Original and Neutral Sample Sachets (2 of each).<br />
CC Cream is the latest thing to come out of Asia, just when the West was starting to get used to the idea of BB Cream! I'm a massive sucker for Asian beauty products, and when I first heard about CC Cream last month (the CC stands for Colour Control), I wanted to get my hands on some badly. And here it is in my Beauty Box! I haven't heard of Rachel K before, but apparently it's a Singaporean brand started by former Miss Singapore Universe winner Rachel Kum. I tried the Original CC Cream this morning, and it seems similar to the BB Creams I've used, but with a few subtle differences. The cream is pink rather than tan, and seems to bring my freckles and discolourations back to my natural skin colour, without adding any new colour or glow. It's hard to draw any conclusions when each different brand and formula of BB Cream seems to have slightly different effects! I'll see if I can rustle up a proper review next week. <br />
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<B>❖ Remedica Richesse Vanilla and Shea Body Butter,</B> sample pot 50ml (estimated).<br />
I have so many body creams, lotions and butters that I think my cupboard is going to burst at the seams! This is one of the nicer ones I've received, though. The formula is thick and luxurious, yet sinks in quickly without being greasy, and it has subtle nutty and citrusy scents to it. I will look forward to using this one!<br />
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<B>❖ Pink Tiger Cosmetics Nail Tools: Buffer and Lint-Free Gauze</B>.<br />
I'm sure these practical tools will come in handy for keeping my nails neat and tidy. It's nice to receive, not just another nail polish, but some tools I can use for those times when I need to give my nails a rest. <br />
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<B>❖ Be In Awe Cosmeceuticals Amala Clearing Serum</B>, sample size 5ml.<br />
I remember getting some Be In Awe products in one of my boxes last year, and they were to die for! The clearing serum is just what I need at the moment for my crazy breaking-out skin. I'll be putting my current moisturiser aside for a while to give this a go. Be In Awe is an Australian brand. <br />
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<B>❖ Goldwell Dualsenses Ultra Volume Conditioner</B>, sample size 75ml. <br />
It's unusual to receive just a conditioner sample, not a set of shampoo and conditioner, but this 75ml bottle is a very generous sample. It should be enough for a few applications, even on my crazy long hair! This formula is designed to give fine hair volume, and I don't really have a need for that with my thick, boofy hair. The watermelon and bamboo scent does sound very enticing, though. <br />
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<B>Summary:</B> This month's box was a solid mixture of makeup, face, body and hair care products. I had a good feeling about it. It was unfortunate that one of them I had little use for, but that was just my colour preference rather than anything intrinsic to the product. On the other hand, receiving the CC Cream was very exciting! Overall, I do like the April box. <br />
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<B>Rating: 8/10<br />
Gunna Use It Right Now Rating: 67%</B> <br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-10919290805202906332013-04-24T13:28:00.000+10:002013-04-24T13:28:00.857+10:00The Beauty Boxes : Bella Box April 2013My April Bella Box arrived mid-week last week, and I'm afraid I've been a bit slack in sharing it. I've been a bit disappointed by Bella Box's offerings in the last few months, even to the point of considering a 'three strikes and you're out' policy. So I was particularly interested to see what was in it.<br />
Let's have a look:<br />
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<B>** Cellulix Glacial Mineral Gel</B>, sample sachet. <br />
I had no idea what this product was at first! I had to read the fine print on the back to find out. It's a mask that contains negatively-charged molecules, which draw out positively-charged bacteria and impurities from the skin. It sounds like interesting stuff and I'm looking forward to trying it. At RRP $69.00 for 60g, I wouldn't be able to afford to use it ongoing, but it's fun to try these things. Cellulix comes from Canada. <br />
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<B>** Indio Facial Scrub and Multi-V Serum</B>, 10ml sample / 15ml full-size.<br />
Another deluxe brand, this time from Australia, Indio uses Dead Sea Salts and vitamins to keep the skin glowing and fresh. Aside from the healthy ingredients and luxe feel of the serum bottle, I'm just attracted by the pretty pastel-coloured balls suspended inside. I can be very superficial that way. I'm really impressed to receive a full-size bottle of the serum, which retails at $78.00 for 15ml. <br />
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<B>** Bella Box Lash Card</B>, pack of 10.<br />
The Bella Box Lash Card is a new concept in makeup application. The curved edge of the card sits in behind your lashes while you're applying your mascara, resulting in a mess-free application. To me it seems like I might make more mess trying to hold the card in place with one hand while putting on my mascara with the other! But I'll definitely give it a try. I tend to smudge my mascara a lot, needing to swab it off with a makeup remover pen, then re-apply my eyeshadow (when I can be bothered!). Once I master the use of these, I can certainly see them being useful when preparing for a special occasion. <br />
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<B>** Avene 3-in-1 Micellar Lotion</B>, sample bottle.<br />
This is another one of those products that I needed to read the fine print to find out what it does! The 3-in-1 lotion is a face wash, toner and makeup remover in one. According to the Bella Box card, you don't even need to wash it off, but I like to anyway, just in case. (Where does all the makeup and dirt <I>go</I>?) The Avene Eye Makeup remover is my go-to makeup remover, so I'm hoping for good things from this. <br />
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<B>** Sally Hansen Magnetic Nail Colour in Metallic Grey</B>, full size bottle.<br />
I was a little surprised to receive this, and not in a good way, I'm afraid. I don't read that many nail polish blogs, but I do read enough to know that magnetic nail polish was a short-lived fad about a year ago. Nobody's doing magnetic nails anymore! The trends at the moment are holographic glitter and jelly look - like the polish I got in my <A HREF= "http://shycatbeauty.blogspot.com.au/2013/02/beauty-boxes-bella-box-february-2013.html">February Bella Box</A>. Which was also Sally Hansen, coincidentally. I wonder why Sally Hansen supplied Bella Box with an up-to-the-minute nail trend one month, and a so-last-year fad polish a few months later? Unfortunately this just feels like one of the occasions where a supplier is trying to get rid of a dated product by dumping it on beauty box subscribers as a filler. On top of that, I don't even like the colour - I wouldn't even wear it without using the magnet, so I think I'll throw it away. <br />
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<B>** Lady Gaga Fame Perfume</B>, sample vial 1.2ml.<br />
Now this is one product I was very happy to receive! I gave Fame the sniff test at Priceline when it first came out about 3 months ago, and I really liked it. I've been waiting for it to come on sale to buy some. Now I can put that off a little longer. The bomb-shaped bottle and unique black fluid disguise a hearty spicy-floral scent that immediately appealed to me.<br />
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<B>Summary:</B> This month's Bella Box was a solid offering with only one disappointing product out of a generous seven. There was an exciting range of skin care products (my favourite!) with several being from luxe brands. I'm happy to say that, in my opinion, Bella Box seems to be improving again.<br />
<B>Gunna Use It Right Now Rating: 70%</B><br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-62769606608517212372013-04-21T21:42:00.000+10:002013-04-21T21:43:33.852+10:00My First Lust Have It ..Eco Box..!In a fit of excitement, I decided I needed even more beauty sample goodness, so I subscribed to Lust Have It's Eco Box. A separate subscription box to LHI's monthly service, the Eco Box is a little more expensive ($24.95), is released quarterly (with the seasons!), and contains only products that are not tested on animals, and are organic and made locally where possible. Yes, the Eco Box is a little more expensive than the normal monthly box, but it promises a larger selection of products, with more full-sized offerings. The box was larger than the monthly subscription box, and impressively hefty. The products were packed in a hessian bag, which fits with the Eco theme, but I think I'll just throw it away as it's a bit smelly. Nevertheless, I was excited when I pulled my products out!<br />
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Let's see what I got!:<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/LHIeco1_zps921beeb6.jpg"></CENTER><b>❀ Savi Wellbeing Body Cream</B>, sample size 20ml.<br />
This organic body moisturiser smells divine - calming with a slight hint of citrus. The Australian botanicals really come out in the scent. I was instantly transported back to the time I had a holiday in Daylesford and went to a day spa. *sighs* My skin felt really soft afterwards. If only the sample bottle was bigger! I know I'll tear through it in no time! The product is made in Australia. <br />
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<b>❀ Pretty Serious Nail Polish in Tux</B>, full size 11ml.<br />
<i>Tux</I> is a black nail polish with green micro-glitter. I don't really like very dark nail polishes, but I thought the glitter would redeem this for me. However, when I tried it out, I could only see the glitter from very close up. Otherwise it just looks plain black. That was a little disappointing. I don't wear black nail polish normally, so I think I'll give this one away. It was pretty long-lasting and I do like the brand's image though, so I might check out their other colours. Pretty Serious is an Australian brand. <br />
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<b>❀ e.l.f. Cosmetics Mineral Eyeshadow in Royal</B>, full size.<br />
Mineral makeup products are supposedly easier on the skin than the alternative, though I personally don't see much of a difference - except in the price: I'm so cynical! ;) This eyeshadow is a beautiful shimmering purple colour; I don't have anything quite like it. Powder eyeshadows can be a bit scary for the spillage factor, but there's a sensible dispenser in the lid that should make using it much easier. I'm happy with this one and will definitely use it. <br />
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<b>❀ Alfaparf Milano Anti-Frizz Oil Shampoo, Anti-Frizz Mask and Absolute Oil</B>, sample sachets and 10ml bottle. <br />
I'm always happy to try a new hair product, though the full sizes are sadly out of my price range. I tried the absolute oil on my hair earlier this evening, so it's a bit early to tell if it works, but it sure smells good and has a satisfyingly thick texture. It contains Prickly Pear oil, with moisturising properties, and all the products are paraben- and colourant-free. Alfaparf Milano comes from Italy.<br />
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<b>❀ McArthur Complete Skincare Cream</B>, full-size 250ml.<br />
The drawcard of this product is that it contains 60% Mc Arthur Pawpaw Extract (TM), though neither the bottle nor the enclosed flyer explain how this is better than normal pawpaw extract. Call me cynical, but I'm put off by the near-miraculous claims and untenably complicated application instructions. It also has a really strange smell - citrus and lavender and something else that I can't quite describe. Having said all of that however, I love this product. Why? Because it doesn't make my eczema flare up! I can't count the number of hand creams I've had to throw away after only a few uses. Thankfully this comes in a nice big pump pack. This product is made in Australia and does not contain parabens. <br />
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<b>❀ Wotnot Facial Wipes</B>, full-size. <br />
By an amazing coincidence, I was planning to buy some facial wipes the very day that my box arrived, as I noticed I was running low. I'm pleased to see that these contain organic aloe vera and rosehip oil. I'm looking forward to getting stuck into them. Wotnot is an Australian company. <br />
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<b>Summary:</B> I was happy with my first Lust Have It Eco Box. There was a good mix of skin care and cosmetics. The only disappointment was that the nail polish colour was not to my taste. I really liked everything else - and it's not often that I have so few negative comments about a beauty box! <br />
I really like the idea of the Eco box. I don't have to worry about getting that pang of guilt when I open a box and see a product from a brand that tests on animals. I also like the idea of getting a larger box at longer intervals. I'm starting to get to the stage in my beauty box career that I want quality just as much as quantity. I'm happy to wait a bit longer if I know I'm going to get a larger proportion of full-sized products, in a more-thoughtfully put together box. <br />
My only question now is ... so when's the Winter box coming out???<br />
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<b>P.S.</B> Today's photo was taken with my new camera that I received for my birthday. I hope you'll notice the difference in image quality from now on!<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-18777091793545490192013-03-31T21:13:00.000+11:002013-05-19T18:23:37.747+10:00Etsy Shop Haul : Ananda BeautyI'm a complete sucker for a cat-in-need story, and when I heard that Etsy indie beauty shop owner Jill was raising money for her cat Roland's vet bills, I just couldn't resist making a purchase. (~~Note: I placed my order a few months ago, so the promotion is over now.~~) <a HREF= "http://www.etsy.com/shop/AnandaBeauty">Ananda Beauty</A> stocks a range of hand-made tinted lip balms, mineral eyeshadows and eyeliners, hair balm and other goodies. All products are vegan and tested on humans only. The aesthetic is metallic and sparkly, with shades of grey, bronze, peach, red and pink. <br />
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I chose the Lip Tint in Ripe Shimma, Hair & Body Balm in Woodsy Scent, and three eye products: Cumulus and Taupe Eyeshadows, and Black Amber Eyeliner powder. Ordering through Etsy was easy and safe as always - the hardest part was choosing which colours I wanted most! The order arrived quickly. My parcel was carefully packed in a bubble-wrap-lined bag, and the items were wrapped in sophisticated black tissue paper, with a lovely thank you note. There were also 4 free samples, which is very generous: Raw Brass and Blue Velvet eyeshadows, Rosalina Highlighter and Sunset Blush. They are all colours that I can see myself using, so thank you to Jill for choosing well! <br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/ananda1_zps4f7c16f2.jpg"></CENTER>The Hair & Body Balm is marvellously thick, and once warmed between my fingers and smoothed on, made a difference to my dry ends. The Woodsy scent, with cedarwood and patchouli, is a delight. The only eye product I've used so far is the Taupe Eyeshadow, and I was pleased with its colour payoff and longevity. Here are some swatches!:<br />
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<i>Photo taken indoors in sunlit room.</I></CENTER>This was my first purchase of beauty products from Etsy and from an indie beauty brand. I was very happy with my experience and would definitely purchase from Ananda Beauty again.<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-17002464735322817442013-03-29T20:32:00.000+11:002013-03-29T20:32:17.717+11:00Bella Box March 2013I'm not too much in the mood for writing at the moment, but I wanted to share my March Bella Box items with you before too much time passes! I received the box over a week ago, so I'm very slack. Here it is:<br />
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<B>❖ Ocean Essence Coconut Body Milk</B>, full (travel) size 20ml.<br />
I'm a bit surprised to find that this body lotion doesn't have much of a smell to it, of coconut or anything else. If anything, it smells faintly of cough medicine. I'll probably use up the tube all in one go anyway. The Body Milk is paraben-free. The RRP for this 20ml travel size tube is $4.95.<br />
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<B>❖ SimuOlive Hydrating Shower Gel</B>, sample size 50ml.<br />
I don't have too many shower gels, but I like using them as a change from soap, so I'll probably crack this open soon. The extra-virgin olive oil in this product is well-known for its moisturising properties. This brand is made in New Zealand and not tested on animals.<br />
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<B>❖ Guerlain La Petite Robe Noire Eau de Toilette</B>, sample vial {size not specified}.<br />
I do love a perfume, and this one is floral and romantic just with a hint of spicy sophistication. I have never sampled a Guerlain perfume before. 'Little Black Dress' is well-named, I think. I can see myself wearing this to a special dinner or an afternoon at the art gallery. <br />
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<B>❖ DB Designer Brands Lip Pencil in Nude</B>, full size. <br />
I don't use lip pencils, so I won't even be opening this. I don't wear lipstick that often, and when I do, I just tend to whack it on before I leave the house, and don't bother re-applying. I just switch to lip gloss or balm for the rest of the day. So having a coloured line on my lips for the rest of the day would look a bit weird! DB is a bit of a cheapie brand anyway, so I'm not too fussed that it's a product I won't use. <br />
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<B>❖ Yes to Carrots C Me Shine Lip Gloss in Playful Nude</B>, full size. <br />
I already have a Bloom lip gloss in exactly the same shade as this, so I don't see the point in even opening it. My Bloom one still has plenty of life in it, so perhaps I'll give this away. If it was a more interesting shade (according to the card there were 4 different shades) then I might want to give it a go. Yes to Carrots is not tested on animals. <br />
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<B>❖ BONUS PRODUCT - Swisse Active Energy Bar</B>, 60g.<br />
It's nice to get a bonus product, and I'll probably eat this soon as I'm starting to exercise more now that the hot weather is mostly gone. I don't mind getting food as a bonus item. It's probably more likely to appeal to a wider range of subscribers (not counting allergies, etc.) than some of the other bonus items I've received before. I've seen the bars at Chemist Warehouse and might be more likely to buy them now if I like the sample. <br />
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<B>Summary:</B> This month's box was a bit boring in my opinion. I was really only excited by the Guerlain perfume. Though there was a fairly good mix of different products, there are 2 that I definitely won't use, so that was quite disappointing. Bella Box has been a bit hit-and-miss lately, and I'm starting to re-think my subscription. There's always the fear, though, that as soon as I unsubscribe, I'll miss out on something really amazing! Hmmm!<br />
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<b>Gonna Use It Right Now Score: 33%<br />
Rating: 6/10</B><br />
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<CENTER><IMG SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-58867616674032090452013-03-27T20:15:00.001+11:002013-05-19T18:21:43.794+10:00Essence: Teeny Tiny Haul I had to go down to the Priceline near my work today to get some deodorant, so I thought I'd check out the latest from my personal Brand-of-the-Moment, Essence. I loved the things I got from their Cherry Girl range a while back, so I wanted to have a look at the <a HREF= "http://www.essence.eu/products/trend-editions/weiterleitung/circus-circus.html">Circus Circus range</A>, which was released in Australia earlier this month. It debuted in Europe in December 2011 ... I can't believe it's taken all this time to come to our shores! We're always on the tail-end of these things, it seems. It's a little bit frustrating. Not only that, but as it was designed for the Christmas/Winter party season in Europe, it seems a little incongruous to release it in Australia in March. Just saying!<br />
<br />
<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/circus8_zps0f06c4cd.png" WIDTH='500'></CENTER>The range lived up to its reputation on the shiny side of things, with lots of gold, red and purple glitter. The eyeshadows were a bit disappointing: while metallic, they were dark, grungy shades. I was expecting brights for a circus theme. There was a choice of two lip glosses in shades of glittery red and pink. The nail polishes were much more enticing, with double-ended bottles filled with gold glitter, red, purple and pink. The fragrance was housed in an exciting-looking multi-faceted bottle with an old-fashioned bulb spray. The scent however- a slightly spicy yet generic floral - didn't inspire me to purchase. <br />
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I was hoping to pick up a lipstick or gloss in a coral tone, as I wanted one to match with my Essence Cherry Girl eye palette. Even after a year of beauty box subscriptions, I still don't have a coral lip colour! Plenty of reds, a few pinks, but no coral! I ended up choosing XXL Shine in Sparkling Papaya from Essence's regular range, and their Nail Art Express Dry Drops. Of course they were cheaper than fabled brand Seche Vite, and if they're half as good as S.V. is reputed to be, they should be all right.<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/EssMar_zpsd221515c.jpg" WIDTH='300'><br />
<i>Sorry about the awful photo, I'll do a proper swatch later.</I></CENTER><center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-40290413260666939682013-03-13T20:40:00.002+11:002013-03-13T20:41:15.654+11:00Her Fashion Box March 2013 Review -- a New Box!I'm a sucker for a beauty box, as I'm sure you've figured out by now. About a month ago, I read on the beauty blogs that a new box was starting up. Her Fashion Box is a larger (and more expensive!) box than the others. It was advertised as having a jewellery and/or accessory included every month, but the main pull was that it's customised. There are 3 styles to choose from: Feminine, Classic and Trendy. This feature would be very attractive to the cynical beauty box subscriber, I imagine. The kicker for me was the 50% off coupon for trying out the first box. I signed up!<br />
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My first Her Fashion Box finally arrived today and I now I'm rushing the review to you!<br />
(So therefore apologies for the single, slightly meh photo.)<br />
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Here are the contents:<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/HFBno1_zps5069afc2.jpg"></CENTER><br />
<b>❐ Feminine Necklace</B> - the first accessory item for the month is a silver filigree collar-style necklace. I love this! It's absolutely gorgeous. I certainly prefer it to the necklaces included in the Trendy and Classic boxes, confirming my thoughts that I'd chosen the right box for me. However, I'll probably only wear it on special occasions, so it won't get a huge amount of wear, unfortunately. <br />
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<b>❐ Redken Diamond Oil Shampoo, Conditioner and Treatment</B>, sample sizes 30-50ml.<br />
These generously-size samples contain Interlock Protein Network technology to strengthen damaged hair. I've never hear of this line of products before, and I believe they're new to Australia. As my hair is constantly dyed, this is right up my alley. The RRP of the full size products is $22.50 to $35.50 - I wouldn't have bought them on a whim, so it's good to try them in my box. <br />
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<b>❐ Maybelline ColorSensation High Shine Lip Gloss in #20 Glisten Up Pink</B>, full size RRP $15.95.<br />
This girly pink is certainly appropriate for the Femnine box. However, I've read at least one review of a subscriber who received the same colour in her Classic box, so.... The last few lip glosses I received were red-toned, so I might put this in my high-rotation basket or perhaps take it to work. <br />
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<b>❐ Master Makeup by Dean Nixon Eyeshadow Brush</B>, RRP $30.00.<br />
I've never heard of this brand, and I don't think many other people have either. It's yet another brand masterminded by a makeup artist who wanted the world to have better (in this case, more affordable) makeup tools. Call me cheap, but I'm the kind of girl who doesn't think a $30 eyeshadow brush is really affordable, sorry! But still, I'm grateful to have such a product in my box. <br />
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<b>❐ Moxie Collection Sample Box</B>.<br />
This cute sample box contains 2 tampons, 1 pantyliner, 1 standard pad and 1 night-time pad. I like the luxe way this has been packaged, but pads are hardly glamorous! I remember receiving a box of Moxie tampons in an <a HREF= "http://shycatbeauty.blogspot.com.au/2011/12/december-lust-have-it-beauty-box.html">early beauty box</A> and being quite disappointed. <br />
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<b>❐ Circa Home Everyday Soap in Lilac & Orchid</B>, 125g, RRP $9.95.<br />
I find it a little amusing that this soap is labelled 'everyday', as I certainly wouldn't pay that much for soap I'd use every day. But! It smells divine and I'm really looking forward to using it. <br />
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<b>❐ BONUS PRODUCT - Gold Bow Ponytail Holder</B>.<br />
I love this adorable hair elastic with a gold metal bow. Again, I definitely prefer this to the offerings in the Classic and Trendy boxes. I can see myself wearing this to work quite a lot! <br />
Instead of a card, the box came with a mini-magazine with information about all of the products. The necklaces were featured with suggested outfits just like in a fashion magazine, with prices and brands for all of the garments (though no prices or brands were listed for the jewellery items themselves, interestingly).<br />
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<b>Summary</B>: So, what did I think of the debut Her Fashion Box? First though, I'll answer the question I'm sure you're all dying to know - how much did it cost?? Well, the full price would have been $49.95, but as I mentioned in the beginning, I had a half-price voucher so this set me back $24.95. Since then though, I've heard that future boxes will be $39.95. Even still, that's a lot for me, especially with no guarantee that I'll like the jewellery item in the box. <br />
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So, this box contained 9 items all up (though in my mind I would group the shampoo and conditioner), including a bonus first-box item. First up, do I think it was worth the money? Well, without RRPs for the jewellery, it's hard to say. But the necklace is heavy and seems well-made, in the latest style, so I would expect to pay $20-$25 in a place like Diva or Equip. Assuming that, then yes the outright value of the box certainly tops $40, possibly even $50. Secondly, does the box have the 'wow' factor? Well, that's harder to answer. Some of the products are pretty mundane - shampoo? tampons? soap? - and none of the brands are really high-end. The makeup and beauty products were the same in each type of box, as far as I can tell from the few reviews that are already up. So does that mean the jewellery will be the only customised items?? Seems a bit odd to me. However, I did think they were spot-on with the different styles of jewellery items. Personally I was a bit sad that there was no moisturiser or cleanser, my particular weaknesses. <br />
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In conclusion, I'm going to wait and see. Boxes can either go all out with their first offering, and then taper off from there, or start slow and improve over time. I'm hoping Her Fashion Box will prove to be the latter. I'll stay subscribed for now and see what's in the next box. At nearly 3 times the price of all the other beauty boxes on the market though, the company has a lot to prove. <br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-3354204478808533142013-02-28T19:22:00.000+11:002013-05-19T18:23:56.538+10:00Massive Asian Beauty Haul!!Well, hello! Today I want to talk about my enormous Asian beauty haul which I bought online from YesStyle. I made the purchase on 31st December, so I've already had them for a while. Things have just been too crazy-busy for me to post my haul(s) before now, but I'm trying to catch up. I often feel like I can't start using a product until I've done a haul post, so yeah, I haven't even opened any of these yet. <br />
I should also confess the reason why this haul is so big! I've been buying things from YesStyle for a few years now, but last year I spent enough that I was getting <strike>not really</STRIKE> close to qualifying for Silver Club membership. The benefits are quite good so I thought, why not go for it? Plus I received a couple of sample sachets for spending over a certain amount. Here's what I got:<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/yesstXmas2012_zps2f26493b.jpg"></CENTER><b>❀ Tony Moly Twinkling Persimmon Cleansing</B> - cleansers are one of my favourite products (is that weird??) and this one smells gorgeously fresh and citrusy. The bright orange pump pack is adorable too, I think I will re-use it. <br />
<b>❀ Dr. Morita Red Wine Essence Eye Masks - </B> this set of 8 eye masks is infused with polyphenols and collagen. The red wine essence was intriguing, and frankly, my undereye area could do with some help. I can see myself relaxing back with an actual glass of red wine while using these. <br />
<b>❀ My Scheming Blackhead Remover Pore Cleanser Set</B> - this set consists of a Papaya Enzyme Sebum Softener, a Purifying Mask and a Pore Treatment Essence. My skin has been kinda derpy for a while: I've been getting lots of pimples and blackheads. I was on the lookout for a blackhead treatment product and chose this one. The packaging is as adorable as anything - check out the cute pictures of the upset-looking blackheads on the box!:<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/yessXmasCLS_zpscc71efcc.jpg"></CENTER><b>❀ Etude House Best Kit</B> - this travel/sample kit consists of 5 products: Real Art Cleansing Oil; Wonder Pore Freshener; Moistfull Collagen Cream; Nymph Aura Volumer (not even sure what this does!); and Precious Mineral BB Cream. I'm a total sucker for small-size/sample products, even if I have to shell out for them. I love Etude House's aesthetic: the packaging is sweet and pink but not over-the-top kawaii.<br />
<b>❀ Skin79 BB Miniature Set</B> - I've finished up 2 of the BB Creams from my Baviphat miniature set and the other 2 are well-squeezed, so I thought why not try some more? The 4 creams are: Super+, Super+ Triple Function, Luminous Pearl and Oriental Gold. <br />
<b>❀ Sample Sachets</B> - I received 2 samples. Etude House Strawberry Milk Talk: I have no idea what this product actually is! There are 'Milk Talk' body wash and lotion on the site, so it must be one of those?? The other is Laniege Homme Aqua Active Essence, a post-moisturiser protective product for men. But eh, I'll probably use it myself! <br />
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Now I can finally start using the products! ahhahaha<br />
Until next time...<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-78899913184966332013-02-26T13:29:00.001+11:002013-02-26T13:31:07.558+11:00Priceline Ooops HaulI went to Priceline in the rain at lunchtime today to get a few things I needed. They didn't have everything I needed, so I felt like getting a couple of treats! Excuse the bad photo, I took it using my ipod at my desk at work. .... <br />
<br />
<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/haul001_zps4493f8f7.jpg"></CENTER>I bought the Formula 10.0.6 Mud Mask because my pores really need some help at the moment. <br />
Plus the strawberry sounded lovely. <br />
Then I was intrigued by the Essence stand and impulsively grabbed a few things from the Cherry Blossom Girl limited edition range. I know, it's been out for ages, it's not the latest thing, but I don't really have any cosmetics in these colours and I love to experiment with new colours. The <i>Dreaming Under a Cherry Tree</I> quad palette has a series of peach-tinted colours that could pass as more-interesting neutrals. I got the <i>It's Peach, Not Cherry</I> nail polish even though I recieved a few recently in my beauty subscription boxes. I just can't help myself! And the <i>Konnichiwa Girls!</I> highlighter is a gorgous pale shimmering pink that will match well with the palette. <br />
I really am a sucker for product! <br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-64905895351852033552013-02-24T12:44:00.001+11:002013-03-29T21:58:01.622+11:00Beauty Boxes : Lust Have It February 2013February's Lust Have It box is a little different to normal. In a spirit of honesty they sent an email last week explaining some changes to this month's box. One of the full-size products they wanted to include was so large and heavy that they couldn't put it in their new signature box, and they also had to leave out one of the products from the card due to the weight limit. There was to be 3 full-size products in total to make up for it. I was so intrigued as to what they might be! <br />
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The box finally arrived on Friday. The postie had put it in the letterbox instead of by the front door like normal, and unfortunately, being a 33oC day, the contents felt warm. Grrr again, Australia Post! I really hope the heat didn't affect them too much, though it can't have been too bad as the lipstick hadn't melted or warped. Moving on though, let's see what we got:<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/LHIfeb13_zpsbc1676ed.jpg"></CENTER><b>* Mancine Summer Tan Self-Action Tan in Dark</B>, full size 250ml.<br />
This is the large bottle that caused all the last-minute swapping surrounding this month's box, and unfortunately I have to say it's a product I probably won't use. I've received tanning products before and said I'd use them, but never do. Sometimes I get vain and want my legs to be a bit more tanned, but I always fall back on my good old Palmer's Gradual. Even then, I sometimes have to dilute it with moisturiser because even after one application it looks too weird with my <strike>pasty</STRIKE> fair rose skin. I may well try it out, but I can't imagine going through a whole 250ml bottle of the stuff! So I was kinda disappointed to find that the product I'd been waiting for and which I had to miss out on my 5th sample for, is wasted on me. <br />
The product is made in Australia and not tested on animals. <br />
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<b>* Styli-Style L3 Timeless Lipstick in Spirit</B>, full size.<br />
I don't use lipsticks too much, but I'm in love with this colour! It's like a dusty rose pink with a touch of mauve, and quite sheer. I have swatched it below! It comes in a nice solid metal tube that I could throw in my bag and take everywhere with me. I can see myself using it often. This brand comes from the U.S.<br />
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<b>* The Natural Source Camouflage Colour Nail Lacquer in Brown Plum</B>, full size. <br />
I just can't get enough nail polish! This one is a deep brick red tending to brown. I probably wouldn't have chosen it myself, but it might make an interesting base for some of the glitter nail polishes I've acquired lately. <br />
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<b>* Lon Vitalite C9 Moisturising Hand Mask</B>, 1 pr.<br />
This looks like a really interesting product: like a cloth face mask except for your hands. I'm really looking forward to using it. My hands have been so dry in the heat, so I think they deserve a bit of pampering. The price seems very reasonable, $4.50 per pair, so I might buy some if I enjoy the pampering. ;)<br />
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<b>Gunna Use It Right Now Rating: 75%<br />
Summary:</B> I'm in two minds about this box. While it was disappointing to only receive 4 products, I did like 3 of them, and LHI's upfront email went quite a way to make up for it. I can't help wondering though if they couldn't have thrown in one or two lightweight sachets as compensation, or if the box really was too heavy. Normally my box ratings depend on giving 0-2 points per product, and with only 4 in this one I'm afraid it only gets 5/10.<br />
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<b>Rating: 5/10</B><br />
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Now for the lipstick swatch. This was taken under my daylight lamp. The colour is much more true-to-life in this shot (compared to my monitor settings anyway!). I think it will be fairly long-wearing as the lippie took a bit of rubbing to get off my arm!:<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/LHIlipswatch_zps56169cee.jpg"></CENTER><center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-33349245419436521082013-02-18T21:34:00.000+11:002013-03-29T21:59:07.213+11:00Beauty Boxes: Bella Box February 2013Welcome to Bella Box February 2013! As always, my postman delivered it to me way after everyone else. I had to avoid reading beauty blogs since about last Wednesday so as not to accidentally see any reviews and ruin my surprise. Grrr Australia Post! Anyway, on to the box!:<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/BBfeb13_zpsc0d0add6.jpg"></CENTER>Here we see:<br />
<b>❝ Nuixe Huile Prodigieuse</B> - sample size 10ml.<br />
According to the card, this is a non-greasy, multi-purpose oil that can be used on the face, body and hair. I'm intrigued and I'm looking forward to using it. It smells lovely too, like gardenias.<br />
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<b>❝ Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure in Mermaid's Tale</B> - full-size 14.7ml.<br />
On first glance, this looked sadly similar to the Blue Lagoon colourway I purchased from Glitzology recently. I had to whip this on straight away just to be sure though. Plus I took a photo, see below! <br />
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<b>❝ John Frieda Friz-Ease Dream Curls Perfecting Spray</B> - sample size 30ml.<br />
I love John Frieda products and I already have a few things from the Frizz-Ease range. I don't often rock out with my curls out, especially in the hot weather! But I'll definitely use it later on, I think. <br />
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<b>❝ Batiste Dry Shampoo in Blush</B> - travel size 50ml.<br />
I just ran out of this last week! Yay, now I have more!<br />
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<b>❝ U Skin Solutions Clean and Go Exfoliating Gel Cleanser</B> - sample size {estimate 5ml}.<br />
I've raved about my love of cleansers before, so I don't need to tell you that I'm looking forward to using this soon! It has a refreshing citrus scent. It also apparently has calendula, tea-tree oil and microfine bamboo beads for exfoliation.<br />
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<b>❝ Banana Boat Sport SPF 30+</B>, sample sachet 30ml.<br />
BONUS PRODUCT - You can never have too much sunscreen, I believe, so I welcome this. <br />
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<b>Summary:</B> This is a well-rounded box with some nice products. There's a mix of everyday and luxe, things I needed and things I've never even heard of. I'll definitely use all of the products, and I've even used one already. So yeah, this is a good box. <br />
<b>Rating: 8/10<br />
Gunna Use It Right Now Percentage: 85%</B><br />
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Now for the nails! This is one coat of Sally Hansen Mermaid's Tale, no topcoat. I probably would apply a second coat for better glitter payoff, but I was feeling lazy tonight. The glitter consists of sparkly greenish-blue hexagonal pieces and small dots in a medium blue jelly base. Yum!<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/MermaidTale_zps179c8f0c.jpg"></CENTER><center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-52093110915738649152013-02-17T19:48:00.001+11:002015-05-30T14:31:06.683+10:00Glitzology Glitter Nails from Etsy<I><B><BLOCKQUOTE>Update: Unfortunately this Etsy shop is now closed.</I></B></BLOCKQUOTE><br />
Before Christmas I decided to treat myself. After reading a blog pot on independent nail polish creators, I somehow got the idea into my head that I didn't have enough glitter nail polish in my life. After a lot of backing-and-forthing, I finally decided to make my purchase from <a HREF= "http://www.etsy.com/shop/GlitzologyBeauty">Glitzology</A>. <br />
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There's such a huge range of polishes available from Stacy's shop, that the only thing I could do was get the 6-bottle bundle. And then spend another half an hour deciding which colours to get! It was a lot of fun, though. These are the polishes I chose: <br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/glitzo_zps6d1ad6a9.jpg" width='650'></CENTER>Normally I don't like cheesy names for things, but I found these variations quirky and fun. They are (left to right):<br />
<b>Nebula</B> - a black jelly base with blue, purple and silver hologram pieces. Reminiscent of the night sky.<br />
<b>Cotton Candy</B> - a subtle lavender base with pink, purple and silver pieces in a mixture of shiny and matte textures. A cute and girly look.<br />
<b>Blue Lagoon</B> - a clear base with a mixture of different shades of blue. Like swimming through the ocean.<br />
<b>Sherwood Forest</B> - a blend of green, yellow and brown pieces. This makes me think of looking up through the forest canopy on a sunny day.<br />
<b>Bad Things</B> - a deep red base with silver, pink and black pieces, and red hearts. Inspired by the TV show True Blood.<br />
<b>The Island of Misfit Toys</B> - red, yellow, blue and green pieces set in a clear base with silver micro glitter. It's like an explosion in a toy factory! <br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/glitzo2_zps44df0652.jpg"></CENTER>I love these polishes so much! The suspension of glitter is extremely generous. Making the purchase was easy, and my parcel came fast. The bottles were carefully packed, and included a page full of tips with a discount coupon for my next purchase. I've decided to showcase each glitter in a separate post. So here's the first:<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/IoMT2_zpsc40422eb.jpg"><br />
<i>Single coat; under daylight lamp.</I></CENTER><i>The Island of Misfit Toys</I> is set in a clear base and features the primary colours - red, yellow, blue and green - in various shapes including large squares, medium-size hexagons and small dots. There are also a few pastel yellow squares thrown in. The whole is set on a background of silver micro glitter. As I said before, the inclusion of glitter is much more generous than other brands I've tried - I only used a single coat for this mani!<br />
I have presented the polish here over a neutral-ish base: Adoree Brown Gaucho. The photo was taken indoors under my daylight lamp. <br />
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I'm not sure when I can show you the other glitters in detail. My nails are pretty weak at the moment and need a rest. I hope it will be in a couple of weeks. Meanwhile, look out for more haul posts and perhaps a review! <br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-24962291980825716912013-02-03T07:50:00.003+11:002013-05-19T18:24:47.594+10:00Collective Haul!I bought all these products last year ... yes, I'm way behind on everything! I'll start with the less interesting and move to the more interesting:<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/PandD_zps55336e50.jpg" WIDTH='450'></CENTER>These are things I bought from Priceline and Daiso. I bought a new bottle of nail polish remover, even though I haven't finished the old one yet. I figured that having plenty on hand would mean that I'd feel free to use plenty when removing my nail polish, and would make it easier. The Cetaphil is for washing my hands. My eczema has been worrying my again recently, and I wanted to take better care of it. I also got the Batiste Dry Shampoo for Dark Hair ("with a hint of colour"). I was hoping that it might cover up my roots a bit in between dye jobs. <br />
The cotton pads come from Daiso. Another good quality product that I didn't spend very much on! I love Daiso. <br />
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Now for the more interesting: <br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/yessNOV12_zps633452e3.jpg" WIDTH='550'></CENTER>These are products I got in a <a HREF= "http://www.yesstyle.com.au">YesStyle</A> haul last November! <br />
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<b>♡</B> SkinFood Red Orange Makeup Finish Spray - I've been using this a couple of times a week, and I love it! I might review it soon.<br />
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<b>♡</B> The Face Shop Konjac Puff - Konjac is all the rage at the moment! I haven't used this yet, though.<br />
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<b>♡</B> Majolica Majorca Jewelling Pencil in White - I bought this on a whim after reading that applying white pencil to the inner corners of your eyes will make them appear bigger. I've tried it once so far, but didn't really have time to give it a proper go. <br />
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<b>♡</B> Sample sachets: SkinFood Honey Black Tea Jelly Foam <i>AND</I> Missha Signature BB Cream - I've received a sample of the BB Cream before, and it wasn't too bad. I'm looking forward to trying the SkinFood cleanser. <br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-19124255307377689982013-01-31T18:59:00.001+11:002013-01-31T18:59:31.426+11:00Beauty Boxes: Lust Have It January 2013My January Lust Have It box finally arrived yesterday! I was starting to see reviews popping up on other blogs and was worried something might have happened to it. Despite living in a metropolitan area, I often seem to receive it a bit late. Never mind, it's mine now! <br />
The first thing I noticed about the box is that it's bigger than normal. Exciting! Inside there was a special cardboard box with a magnetic closure. This must be the collector box that was promised late last year! It's beautiful, I love the colours, and it's a good size for storing lots of different things. <br />
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It contained:<br />
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<B>* Lush Cosmetics Emotional Brilliance Eyeliner in Motivation</B>, full size.<br />
A product from Lush's New Emotional Brilliance Range, and a full-size one, no less! Of course I'd heard about Lush's Cosmetics range when it first came out a few months ago. It was all over the beauty blogs, and I subscribe to their emails, too. I was very curious, but at RRP $24.95 a go, a little hesitant. Especially because you're supposed to choose the colour by spinning the wheel! I'm just not that spontaneous! Yet this gorgeous blue colour and its name appeal to me. I really could do with some 'Motivation' right now. And I've been wanting to experiment with liquid eyeliners (I bought a brown one from Daiso recently which I haven't shown you yet). To sum up, I was excited to see this product!<br />
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<B>* Nude By Nature BB 5-in-1 Miracle Cream in Medium Tone</B>, full-size.<br />
As I mentioned in my last post, I'm a bit suspicious of Western BB creams, but I'm glad to get to try another one. And this is a full-sized tube. It's much more generous than Bella Box's 5ml sachet (I know I promised not to compare different brands of box, but sometimes I just can't help it.) The medium tone will probably be too dark for my fair skin, but as it's summer I just might be able to get away with it.<br />
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<B>* Lust Have It branded Kabuki Brush</B>.<br />
This brush looks very beautiful and I'm looking forward to trying it. Lately I've started applying my morning BB Cream/Foundation with a brush instead of my fingers. The main advantage to this is it saves time in the mornings - I don't have to go into the bathroom and wash my hands before finishing my morning routine. Whether or not I use less product or there are other advantages, I'm not sure yet! It's also fun to use a brush - I feel more grown up and sophisticated. =)<br />
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<B>* Klorane Pomegranate Shampoo & Conditioner for Colour-Treated Hair</B>, sample sachets 10ml each.<br />
Well, I don't know if it's a coincidence, but this product is just suited for my constantly-dyed hair. Plus, I love pomegranate in all its forms. I'm really looking forward to trying these. <br />
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<B>* Avene Clenance Gel Cleanser, Cream Exfoliant and Anti-Shine Moisturiser</B>, sample bottles ___ml each. <br />
Again, I'm happy to receive these three generously-sized sample bottles. I was really impressed with the Avene eye makeup remover, so I'm looking forward to trying some of their other products. The Clenance range is for sensitive skin; even though my skin isn't particularly sensitive, I appreciate products that don't have too many chemicals. <br />
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<B>Summary:</B> I was thrilled when I opened up this month's box - two full-sized makeup products, some relevant hair products and a generous sampling of skin things. Even though there are 5 products listed on the card, some are grouped together so there's actually 8 separate items. There was no splitting up of products to make the offering seem more generous like has occurred in the past (<A HREF= "http://shycatbeauty.blogspot.com.au/2013/01/beauty-boxes-bella-box-january-2013.html">this month's Bella Box</A> being the most recent example I can think of. This actually makes it seem more generous rather than less, in my opinion. The value of this box is somewhat over $55, which is very good for recent boxes. <br />
In short, I really love this box!<br />
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<B>Gunna Use It Right Now Percentage: 75%<br />
Box Rating:</B> 9/10<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-81563797346916051432013-01-27T17:18:00.000+11:002013-05-19T18:26:00.183+10:00(Belated) Christmas Gift Share!I can't believe Christmas was a month ago already! I'm probably the last blogger on earth to share my Christmas receipts, but as I mentioned in my last post, the flu got me down for a long time. I'm grateful for everything I got though, so I wanted to share it. The photos also feature Kapibara-san, whom I've had for years, but he just felt like posing in the photos, so who was I to stop him?<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/xmas12_1.jpg"></CENTER><i>[above]</i> From my parents-in-law I received a Cellex-D Eye Serum. I've never used this brand before, and I'm looking forward to giving it a try. <br />
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From my Mum I received a Sukin Body Lotion, and three Max Factor mini Nailfinity nail polishes, in Opal, Boji and Onyx. These weren't actually Christmas gifts - sometimes Mum gets gifts with purchase, etc. that she doesn't use and passes them on to me. I used the Boji on Christmas day and it came out a nice lavender/taupe colour.<br />
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From Husband I received an Almond Candy Milkshake Body Butter and an Etude House Shini Star Lip Balm. I must confess, these are things that I bought and then gave them to him to wrap and give to me. A friend told me that she does this a lot, to make sure she gets presents that she really wants. Thankfully Husband is very good at coming up with gift ideas on his own, but sometimes a girl's needs can be very specific. I doubt he'd know intuitively that I was pining away for something from Etude House's collaboration with the K-pop band SHINee. <br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/shinee.jpg" width='500'></CENTER>It was a complete indulgence buy. Saving Husband the trouble of having to think of more stocking fillers for me made me feel much less guilty about buying it! The pot is so adorable, and the scent I chose is Onew / Peach. (Onew is the one on the right in the band photo.) <br />
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<i>[below]</i> I also received these gifts packs. The Palmer's Purse Essentials was from Husband. He thought of this one by himself and I'm very happy with it. I love Palmer's and I'll definitely use all of these products - soon! Also in the picture is a pair of earrings he gave me (again, a self-purchase).<br />
The other gift pack is the Burt's Bees Head to Toe Kit, which I received in the Kris Kringle I have with my group of friends. There's a little bit of everything in this pack. Another one that will go to good use.<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/xmas12_2.jpg"></CENTER><center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8322866414146350892.post-52969401640461247102013-01-19T17:54:00.001+11:002013-02-24T13:27:13.006+11:00Beauty Boxes: Bella Box January 2013Yes people, it's 2013! I have to apologise for being away for so long. I had all sorts of exciting things lined up for the blog, but then I came down with the flu and I could barely move for 3 weeks. I didn't even feel like using beauty products, let alone reviewing them! Drastic times. But now I'm back with the contents of my January 2013 Bella Box. And I have to say, I'm pretty disappointed with this month's box. Here's what it contained: <br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/BBjan13.jpg"></CENTER><b>❏ You, Me and Everybody Cool It Aloe Vera Gel</B>, full size 100ml.<br />
Aloe Vera Gel isn't the most exciting product, but it might come in handy for one of the very rare occasions that I spend too much time out in the sun. (As I've mentioned before, I'm completely paranoid about sun exposure and I even apply sunscreen when I know I'm going to be inside all day!) YM&E seems like a very interesting brand, and I would like to have seen something more interesting and different from them, like the Skin Mousse I received <a HREF= "http://shycatbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/09/beauty-boxes-bella-box-september-2012.html">back in September</A>. <br />
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<b>❏ Aurora Spa Rose and Aloe Body Cleanser <i>and</I> Ultra Rich Body Cream</B>, sample size 50ml each.<br />
These products are listed separately on the card. Perhaps I'm being unfair, but to me, two products from the same brand, a <i>pair</I> of items if you will, would perhaps be better listed as a single product. Or at least add a 6th product to the box to make up for it. That's just me. Having said that, these products smell absolutely freakin' amazing, and I can't wait to use them! This brand appeared before in the <a HREF= "http://shycatbeauty.blogspot.com/2012/09/beauty-boxes-bella-box-august-2012.html">August Bella Box</A>. It is Australian owned and made, and not tested on animals. <br />
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<b>❏ Natio Pure Mineral Skin Perfecting BB Cream</B>, sample sachet 5ml.<br />
I love my BB Creams, and perhaps I'm a little precious about them. The BB Creams made by many Western companies have gotten a bad rap in the beauty world, so I'm a little suspicious of this one. It does have green tea, chamomile and SPF 15 (I'll wear sunscreen anyway as I never settle for less than SPF 30), so it might be alright. However, it comes in an ungenerous 5ml sachet, which will probably be only enough for 2-3 applications. (Even the card says, "yes, we know it's a sachet...") It comes in Fair, Medium and Tan, and the colourway I received is Medium, which will probably be too dark for my fair skin. (This supports rumours that beauty box companies do not actually pay any attention to customers' profiles!) Seeing as it's a BB Cream though, I'm curious to give it a try anyway and see if it's any good. I'd better do it soon though while it's still Summer, or I might look like I'm one of the orange ladies from Jersey Shore. ツ<br />
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<b>❏ Face of Australia Colour Max Eyeshadow Palette in Mercury Rising</B>, full size.<br />
While Face of Australia has a good reputation, it's kinda everywhere and would certainly not be classed as a 'luxury' brand. I really love eyeshadows - I'm a colour girl - so I'm glad I received this rather than the lipgloss that was the alternative (I have sooo many of those, sigh). I think I'll put this away until winter though: the greys in this palette really seem like winter colours to me. Also, the black pan is cracked, but that's the colour I'd be least likely to use anyway, so I'm not really fussed.<br />
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<b>Summary:</B> Other subscribers received different products this month: a Swisse body wash (their hand cream smells divine so I'm curious about their other products), Face of Australia cleansing wipes (would have come in handy), a bright pink nail polish (I already have polish in the same shade so I'm glad I didn't get it), and at least one I saw got a bonus wall decal. Taking that into consideration, I'm glad I got the products I did, but I'm still a bit disappointed. Bella Box's last few boxes have made me start to re-consider my subscription. The RRP of the products is still more than the $15 per month I pay for the box, but they just don't thrill me like they used to. (Aside from the Savoir Faire palette last month, that was pretty amazing!) I'll reserve my judgement and make a decision in a few month's time.<br />
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Stay tuned for more posts coming up soon! I'll be writing about:<br />
* my Christmas haul!<br />
* Etsy indie makeup purchases!<br />
* reviews!<br />
* Asian beauty haul!!<br />
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<center><img SRC= "http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v127/apartmentcat/My%20Path/SCsig.jpg"></CENTER>ApartmentCathttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05074382933557558949noreply@blogger.com