I've recently been considering taking on some extra work via some form of skincare/cosmetic network sales. I previously worked for LeReve selling perfumes & aromatherapy products & loved it. So while I've been researching various companies, I was invited to a friends Arbonne launch party and I think (not 100% sure yet though) this is the one I may be happy to invest in. The products are all 100% vegan, focusing on being pure, safe & beneficial. I tried the RE9 skincare range and a wide range of the cosmetics at the launch and loves almost everything I tried. I've ordered a selection of cosmetics and the RE9 cleanser to use longer term and see how I go with them. I'll provide reviews of each and hopefully this will help me decide if this is the business for me.
So watch this space!
Have you tried Arbonne products? What do you think of them? Any favourites?
Cathie May
xoxo
Sunday 1 June 2014
Thursday 29 May 2014
Mini Haul: Chemist Warehouse Mayhem Sale Final Days
The chemist warehouse sale ends tonight and while stock is running extremely low I though I'd pop in last night to see if there were any last items worth grabbing... And of course there were.
Just a couple of items this time:
The first item I grabbed was the Maybelline ColourSensation high shine lip gloss in glisten up pink. Maybelline is still 50% off and I picked up one of these glosses the other day and love it so I thought I'd grab another one if the had anymore in stock in colours I liked. And they did.
The next item I grabbed was a Maybelline Eye Studio Big Eyes compact in luminous turquoise. I have read any great reviews in this, but I love so many other Maybelline products and the colours in this look great so I thought for 50% off! it's worth giving it a go.
The final product I got was the Bastie dry shampoo in original. This is a holy grail hair air product of mine and again, while they were on special for $4.99, why wouldn't i.
I'll keep you updated on my thoughts on the Big Eyes compact as I use it. Have you had any experience with this product? What's your impression of it? Love it? Hate it?
Cathie May
xoxo
Just a couple of items this time:
The first item I grabbed was the Maybelline ColourSensation high shine lip gloss in glisten up pink. Maybelline is still 50% off and I picked up one of these glosses the other day and love it so I thought I'd grab another one if the had anymore in stock in colours I liked. And they did.
The next item I grabbed was a Maybelline Eye Studio Big Eyes compact in luminous turquoise. I have read any great reviews in this, but I love so many other Maybelline products and the colours in this look great so I thought for 50% off! it's worth giving it a go.
The final product I got was the Bastie dry shampoo in original. This is a holy grail hair air product of mine and again, while they were on special for $4.99, why wouldn't i.
I'll keep you updated on my thoughts on the Big Eyes compact as I use it. Have you had any experience with this product? What's your impression of it? Love it? Hate it?
Cathie May
xoxo
Wednesday 28 May 2014
Product Review: Anastasia Beverly Hills Clear Brow Gel
I'm going to cut to the chase and start by telling you, this product has changed my life! I recently received the Anastasia Beverly Hills Clear Brow Gel in my May BellaBox and it has been an absolute hit. I have seen so many good reviews of this product but to be honest I'm on a mission to source great locally available products. We'll this killed 2 birds with one stone, I got to try and fall in love with the product, and it's available via the BellaBox website.
This product goes on so smoothly and easily, has no scent and serious keeps your brows still ALL DAY! Without making them look stuck on like a muppet.
I don't know how I ever looked at my eyebrows before using this, let alone anyone else. I cannot recommend this product highly enough.
I'd love to hear if you've tried this product, if so what is your experience. If not, do you have an alternative you love?
Cathie May
xoxo
Tuesday 27 May 2014
Product Review: Lacura Purify Exfoliating Wash
I thought I might share with you one of my holy grail bargain face products. I have been using this product on and off for over 5 years now, after my sister recommended it. It's been my go to product in between trying samples and other products which I've been recommended. But every time when I'm back on the hunt for a new cleanser I turn to the good old Aldi Lacura Exfoliating Wash for oily skin.
This product has the tiniest exfoliating beads and feels so great on my skin. No matter how much make-up or daily build up I'm trying to remove from my face, I can guarantee this will make it feel amazingly clean. I keep a tube of it in my shower and use it every time I'm in there without fail. It's gentile enough that I can use it daily. I absolutely love it.
What's even better is it's readily available at Aldi stores for only $3.99 for a 150ml tube. One tube lasts me 2-3 months!
The product claims to do the following, and I can't fault it for one moment:
- Gentle facial exfoliator containing microbeads for an effective deep pore wash
- Use regularly to unclog pores and remove dead skin cells
- Soap free, leaving your skin feeling invigorated and refreshed
- contains Vitamin E & Provitamin B5
Cathie May
xoxo
Monday 26 May 2014
Product Review: The Balm Meet Matt(e) Nude Matte Eyeshadow Palette
I purchased this palette about a month back using David Jones vouchers which I'd had hanging around in my handbag for months. I was dying to get my hands on this palette after watching Lauren Curtis' Smokey Eyes for Beginners Tutorial on YouTube.
Saturday night my husband and I had a Charity Ball to go to so I thought there's no better time to bust out My Meet Matt(e) palette for a little smokey eye action. Unfortunately we were running a little late and I forgot to take photos of the finished look. The only pics I do have are my husbands' selfies and some crazy black & white pics from the photo booth at the event.
However, the end look aside, I'd like to share with you just how much i loved using this palette. To create the look I wanted, after priming my eyes, I used Matt Rosen & Matt Wood in the crease. I then built up the smokey look using Matt Garcia on the lid and in the crease and finally I used Matt Johnson in the outer corner and under the lower lash line.
The colours glide on so smoothly, blend so easily and are highly pigmented. I'm pretty sure this is going to make it into my top palettes list. The only problem I have now is the impact to my bank balance because all I want to do is go and purchase every other palette made by The Balm. Unfortunately the are on the pricier side at $42 for this one. So I think I'll be waiting a while for my next one as I'm pretty sure I've well and true used up my cosmetics allowance this month for the next quarter.
Cathie May
xoxo
Saturday night my husband and I had a Charity Ball to go to so I thought there's no better time to bust out My Meet Matt(e) palette for a little smokey eye action. Unfortunately we were running a little late and I forgot to take photos of the finished look. The only pics I do have are my husbands' selfies and some crazy black & white pics from the photo booth at the event.
However, the end look aside, I'd like to share with you just how much i loved using this palette. To create the look I wanted, after priming my eyes, I used Matt Rosen & Matt Wood in the crease. I then built up the smokey look using Matt Garcia on the lid and in the crease and finally I used Matt Johnson in the outer corner and under the lower lash line.
The colours glide on so smoothly, blend so easily and are highly pigmented. I'm pretty sure this is going to make it into my top palettes list. The only problem I have now is the impact to my bank balance because all I want to do is go and purchase every other palette made by The Balm. Unfortunately the are on the pricier side at $42 for this one. So I think I'll be waiting a while for my next one as I'm pretty sure I've well and true used up my cosmetics allowance this month for the next quarter.
Cathie May
xoxo
Friday 23 May 2014
Haul: Chi Chi Nude Palette ++
Oops I did it again, went into Myer to pick up one palette and walked out with more. This time thanks to the Myer offer to spend $30 on any Chi Chi products and get the Fabulous & Flawless Foundation (valued at $29.95) FREE! So I figured, add the baked eye shadow I've been wanting anyway and off we go!
The nudes palette has been on my wish list for so long, I can't wait to use it! I picked up the To The Moon & Back baked eyeshadow which is a great matte base. And of course I got the foundation for free, I went with 5. Neutral Beige, for light to medium skin with neutral undertones. It's the only foundation I have that doesn't have SPF in it so it may be a good one for events where I know photos are likely.
I can't wait to try these products out, I'll let you know how they go.
Cathie May
xoxo
First Impressions: Maybelline Dream Pure BB Cream
So after my Chemist Warehouse spree last night, I rose this morning to test out my new Maybelline Dream Pure BB Cream. And let me say, from a coverage perspective, I'm so impressed. To be honest I expected something similar to a tinted moisturiser, but was pleasantly surprised to find it has amazing coverage but without feeling like you have a heap of make-up on.
While I'm still yet to see how it holds up for a whole day or in different environments, my first impression is that this could very well make it into my holy grail products and may be my new workday coverage.
Stay tuned for updates.
Cathie May
xoxo
While I'm still yet to see how it holds up for a whole day or in different environments, my first impression is that this could very well make it into my holy grail products and may be my new workday coverage.
Stay tuned for updates.
Cathie May
xoxo
Thursday 22 May 2014
Haul: Chemist Warehouse Sale
OK so I stopped in at Chemist Warehouse on my way home to pick up some vitamins and BB Cream, and walked out with this:
Oops! At 50% off, what's a girl to do?
So what did I pick up? To start with, I got my BB cream, after reading Megan Masisies review on her blog I thought I'd give it a go for days when I'm not working or going out and just want some light coverage. I've got oily skin and I fake tan so I figured the Maybelline Dream Pure Medium is worth trying out. I'm working from home tomorrow, so I'm looking forward to trying this out.
Next I picked up the Maybelline Colossal Volume Express Mascara in Glam Black. I currently use the Maybelline One By One mascara and love it, however I've seen so many great reviews on the colossal I just had to get my hands on it while it was on sale.
My next purchases were reflective of my obsession with Maybelline lipsticks. First I picked up the Colour Sensational Whisper in Petal Rebel. I am so in love with these lipsticks. They are so soft and sheer I can't get enough of them.
I also picked up a Colour Sensational Stripped Nude in Brazen Beige, as well as two lipsticks, Pink & Proper and Pink me up. Just like the Whisper, these are amazing!
I have seen a few reviews on the Revlon Lip Butters so I thought I'd give the a try, so I picked one up in Juicy Papaya, a highly recommended colour.
I also picked up a few eyeshadow quads to try out. The first one being the Maybelline Modern Metallics in Enchanted Forest. I also picked up two Rimmel Glam Eye Quads in Smokey Purple & Smokey Brun.
I grabbed a Rimmel Lasting Finish Blush in Genuine Plum and two Rimmel eyeliners in white and nude.
I'm so excited to try out new products as well as add to the colour collection of some of my favourites. I'll be sure to share my thoughts on each of them as I use them.
Cathie May
xoxo
Oops! At 50% off, what's a girl to do?
So what did I pick up? To start with, I got my BB cream, after reading Megan Masisies review on her blog I thought I'd give it a go for days when I'm not working or going out and just want some light coverage. I've got oily skin and I fake tan so I figured the Maybelline Dream Pure Medium is worth trying out. I'm working from home tomorrow, so I'm looking forward to trying this out.
Next I picked up the Maybelline Colossal Volume Express Mascara in Glam Black. I currently use the Maybelline One By One mascara and love it, however I've seen so many great reviews on the colossal I just had to get my hands on it while it was on sale.
My next purchases were reflective of my obsession with Maybelline lipsticks. First I picked up the Colour Sensational Whisper in Petal Rebel. I am so in love with these lipsticks. They are so soft and sheer I can't get enough of them.
I also picked up a Colour Sensational Stripped Nude in Brazen Beige, as well as two lipsticks, Pink & Proper and Pink me up. Just like the Whisper, these are amazing!
I have seen a few reviews on the Revlon Lip Butters so I thought I'd give the a try, so I picked one up in Juicy Papaya, a highly recommended colour.
I also picked up a few eyeshadow quads to try out. The first one being the Maybelline Modern Metallics in Enchanted Forest. I also picked up two Rimmel Glam Eye Quads in Smokey Purple & Smokey Brun.
I grabbed a Rimmel Lasting Finish Blush in Genuine Plum and two Rimmel eyeliners in white and nude.
I'm so excited to try out new products as well as add to the colour collection of some of my favourites. I'll be sure to share my thoughts on each of them as I use them.
Cathie May
xoxo
Wednesday 21 May 2014
Product Review: Al'chemy Ylang Ylang, Colour Care Shampoo & Macadamia & Wheat Protein Conditioner
I came across this product in Costco, it was priced at $23 a bottle so I assumed it must be good so I'd give it a try. So I purchased the 500ml shampoo & conditioner.
Big mistake!
I'm not sure if anyone else has tried this product but apart from the smell, which is nice but not amazing, the product is terrible. The shampoo doesn't lather at all, I ALWAYS have to shampoo twice to feel like my hair is remotely clean. The conditioner, leaves my hair feeling really limp and I struggle to style it properly. I find I also only get about 2 decent days out of my hair after using this, whereas I would usually get 3-4 on other brands.
The shampoo is formulated for colour treated and heat style hair and claims to help to protect hair from colour fade and wash out & help to strengthen colour treated hair. Unfortunately I haven't noticed either.
The conditioner is formulated for dry or damaged hair and claims it's ideal for helping to create hydrated, shiny hair & helping to provide maximum moisture. Again, none of which I can support, my hair always feel limp dry and stringy after I use these products.
What I have found however is that the shampoo makes a very expensive, but great body wash or shaving gel for my legs
I've since come across this product in David Jones, which has me even more disgruntled about it. After seeing it I thought maybe it was just me, so I used it again to see if I thought any differently. The outcome, I still feel I've wasted my money.
I'd love to hear from anyone else who has used this product. Did you like it and if so, why, if not, why not?
Cathie May
xoxo
Big mistake!
I'm not sure if anyone else has tried this product but apart from the smell, which is nice but not amazing, the product is terrible. The shampoo doesn't lather at all, I ALWAYS have to shampoo twice to feel like my hair is remotely clean. The conditioner, leaves my hair feeling really limp and I struggle to style it properly. I find I also only get about 2 decent days out of my hair after using this, whereas I would usually get 3-4 on other brands.
The shampoo is formulated for colour treated and heat style hair and claims to help to protect hair from colour fade and wash out & help to strengthen colour treated hair. Unfortunately I haven't noticed either.
The conditioner is formulated for dry or damaged hair and claims it's ideal for helping to create hydrated, shiny hair & helping to provide maximum moisture. Again, none of which I can support, my hair always feel limp dry and stringy after I use these products.
What I have found however is that the shampoo makes a very expensive, but great body wash or shaving gel for my legs
I've since come across this product in David Jones, which has me even more disgruntled about it. After seeing it I thought maybe it was just me, so I used it again to see if I thought any differently. The outcome, I still feel I've wasted my money.
I'd love to hear from anyone else who has used this product. Did you like it and if so, why, if not, why not?
Cathie May
xoxo
Tuesday 20 May 2014
Product Review: Epic Nail UV Shallac Nail Polish Kit
After spending ridiculous amounts of money on shellac manicures at nail bars, I had a friend (who is also a beautician) come to my house for a treatment which included a shellac mani, a body wrap and a spray tan. I've been doing my own nails for years also and while watching her do my mani, I noticed that doing my own shellac didn't look that difficult. So I took note of the brand of the products she was using and went on a mission.
After she left I jumped online to find out more about this "Epic Nail". Much to my surprise, I came across their website which was filled with amazing kits, a huge selection of colours and all at much cheaper prices than the ones I had seen in store. In addition to this, I waited a week to see how the polish lasted. I had read reviews on cheaper products in the past of people experiencing peeling, etc. After 10 days on, my nails were still looking amazing! The finish never bubbles (a problem I've had at some salons), it has an amazing sheen and wont peel for at least 12 days (depending on how well I've prepared my nails).
So after running my cost benefit analysis past my husband I jumped back on and purchased myself the Classic UV Starter Kit. For $97.00 I got the kit, which includes, 6 classic shellac colours, base coat, top coat, UV Nail curing lamp, 10 cuticle pushers & 20 alcohol wipes. Considering one mani at Hollywood Nails would set me back $40, I'd only need to do 3 manis and I've made my money back!
If you're interested, this is the kit I purchased: http://www.epicnail.com.au/buy/classic-colours-shellac-starter-kit-uv/ENAP201
Not only was shipping free for the kit, but my order arrived within 3 days. Once it was delivered there was no stopping me, I unboxed it all and started doing my first mani. The kits comes in a beautiful white, sturdy, shiny cardboard magnetic box. It's so nice I continue to use it store my UV lamp and accessories in. In addition it comes with a colour brochure which lists all of the shellac colours available, as well as easy-to-follow comprehensive application and removal instructions.
I have loved the kit so much that while the shellac will last longer I have a Sunday ritual of redoing my nails just to I can try all the different colours. Since purchasing the original kit I have added another 30+ colours to my collection. I have also purchased a set of nail foils which I've only briefly experimented with. Once I work my way through them, I'll provide you with product reviews.
I was flat out this weekend gone, so I only got time to redo my nails last night using one of my latest colours, Tangerine. Its an amazingly bright and cheerful orange/coral burst of colour.
Here are a few of the other manis I have done over the last few months since investing in the kit.
After she left I jumped online to find out more about this "Epic Nail". Much to my surprise, I came across their website which was filled with amazing kits, a huge selection of colours and all at much cheaper prices than the ones I had seen in store. In addition to this, I waited a week to see how the polish lasted. I had read reviews on cheaper products in the past of people experiencing peeling, etc. After 10 days on, my nails were still looking amazing! The finish never bubbles (a problem I've had at some salons), it has an amazing sheen and wont peel for at least 12 days (depending on how well I've prepared my nails).
So after running my cost benefit analysis past my husband I jumped back on and purchased myself the Classic UV Starter Kit. For $97.00 I got the kit, which includes, 6 classic shellac colours, base coat, top coat, UV Nail curing lamp, 10 cuticle pushers & 20 alcohol wipes. Considering one mani at Hollywood Nails would set me back $40, I'd only need to do 3 manis and I've made my money back!
If you're interested, this is the kit I purchased: http://www.epicnail.com.au/buy/classic-colours-shellac-starter-kit-uv/ENAP201
Not only was shipping free for the kit, but my order arrived within 3 days. Once it was delivered there was no stopping me, I unboxed it all and started doing my first mani. The kits comes in a beautiful white, sturdy, shiny cardboard magnetic box. It's so nice I continue to use it store my UV lamp and accessories in. In addition it comes with a colour brochure which lists all of the shellac colours available, as well as easy-to-follow comprehensive application and removal instructions.
I have loved the kit so much that while the shellac will last longer I have a Sunday ritual of redoing my nails just to I can try all the different colours. Since purchasing the original kit I have added another 30+ colours to my collection. I have also purchased a set of nail foils which I've only briefly experimented with. Once I work my way through them, I'll provide you with product reviews.
I was flat out this weekend gone, so I only got time to redo my nails last night using one of my latest colours, Tangerine. Its an amazingly bright and cheerful orange/coral burst of colour.
Here are a few of the other manis I have done over the last few months since investing in the kit.
If you're interested in checking them out, you can do so at http://www.epicnail.com.au/
Cathie May
xoxo
Cathie May
xoxo
Monday 19 May 2014
Unboxing: May BellaBox
I came across BellaBox as a suggestion in my Facebook newsfeed. After reading countless reviews on blogs and vlogs I decided to give it a try. So last week I jumped on BellaBox and signed up and today felt like Christmas when I opened my front door to find this:
Of course I raced inside to see what it contained (albeit I had already read lots of blogs with the May BellaBox)
Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Gel - clear - cult 2.5ml
7.93g RRP $39.00 from bellabox.com.au
Let me just preface this letting you know how many awesome reviews I have seen of this product. I have been dying to try it but was aware it's not readily available in Australia. We'll now things have changed.
Swisspers Facial Cleansing Wipes - original 5pk
25pk RRP $6.00 from Priceline
I'm a big fan of cleansing wipes. While I always try to properly wash my makeup off before bed with a cleanser & toner, if truth be told, after a long day/night that doesn't always happen. But this is when cleansing wipes become a blessing. I've been using cleansing wipes on an adhoc basis for years but never Swisspers so I'm really excited to try these.
Face of Australia Lip Pencil - pink FULL SIZE PRODUCT
200mg RRP $7.45 at Priceline
I honestly haven't used Face of Australia products in years. So that along with my new found love for pink lipsticks has me excited to try this product. No doubt you'll see a review on this before the week is out.
WEN by Chaz Dean Sweet Almond Mint Cleansing Conditioner - green 60ml
480ml RRP $34.99 at chazdeanwen.com.au
Not only does this sound like an amazing smelling product, it's also a very generously sized sample. In addition to that, I only have short hair and use a minimal amount of conditioner so I'm thinking this sample is going to last me quite a while.
Also included was WEN offer card of $10 off and free P&H when you order a WEN 30 Day Deluxe Pack ($29.95) before 30/06/14
Appelles Rosemary Body Bar - Aussie FULL SIZE PRODUCT
100g RRP $5.95 at bellabox.com.au
Firstly, this smells amazing, secondly it's organic, thirdly my husband and I will be fighting over this. That is all.....
BONUS - Invisible Zinc Tinted Daywear SPF30+ - medium 5G
50G rrp $32.00 at Priceline
I've never used this product before so I'm keen to try it out. The only challenge is, coming into winter in Melbourne not sure I'm going to have a chance to test out the SPF so I'm thinking I might hold onto this one to take with me on my trip to Bali in September.
In conclusion, my first BellaBox.... I'm super impressed! I can't wait to try these products and I can't wait for next months box.
For anyone who wants to try them out, I got my first box for only $10 and subsequent monthly boxes are still only $15. I think even cheaper if you sign up to an annual membership. From what I've seen, it usually contains at least $70 worth or products and quite often has 1-2 full sized products. This is a really great subscription to have if you're like me and love to try new things but really can't decide once you get to the store. I also travel a lot for work so I also think it's a great idea to get your hands on sample/travel sized products that you can take with you. If your interested in checking them out, get on bellabox.com.au.
Cathie May
xoxo
Of course I raced inside to see what it contained (albeit I had already read lots of blogs with the May BellaBox)
So here we go, please keep in mind, this is an unboxing, I've not yet used any if these products so stay tuned for product reviews.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Gel - clear - cult 2.5ml
7.93g RRP $39.00 from bellabox.com.au
Let me just preface this letting you know how many awesome reviews I have seen of this product. I have been dying to try it but was aware it's not readily available in Australia. We'll now things have changed.
Swisspers Facial Cleansing Wipes - original 5pk
25pk RRP $6.00 from Priceline
I'm a big fan of cleansing wipes. While I always try to properly wash my makeup off before bed with a cleanser & toner, if truth be told, after a long day/night that doesn't always happen. But this is when cleansing wipes become a blessing. I've been using cleansing wipes on an adhoc basis for years but never Swisspers so I'm really excited to try these.
Face of Australia Lip Pencil - pink FULL SIZE PRODUCT
200mg RRP $7.45 at Priceline
I honestly haven't used Face of Australia products in years. So that along with my new found love for pink lipsticks has me excited to try this product. No doubt you'll see a review on this before the week is out.
WEN by Chaz Dean Sweet Almond Mint Cleansing Conditioner - green 60ml
480ml RRP $34.99 at chazdeanwen.com.au
Not only does this sound like an amazing smelling product, it's also a very generously sized sample. In addition to that, I only have short hair and use a minimal amount of conditioner so I'm thinking this sample is going to last me quite a while.
Also included was WEN offer card of $10 off and free P&H when you order a WEN 30 Day Deluxe Pack ($29.95) before 30/06/14
Appelles Rosemary Body Bar - Aussie FULL SIZE PRODUCT
100g RRP $5.95 at bellabox.com.au
Firstly, this smells amazing, secondly it's organic, thirdly my husband and I will be fighting over this. That is all.....
BONUS - Invisible Zinc Tinted Daywear SPF30+ - medium 5G
50G rrp $32.00 at Priceline
I've never used this product before so I'm keen to try it out. The only challenge is, coming into winter in Melbourne not sure I'm going to have a chance to test out the SPF so I'm thinking I might hold onto this one to take with me on my trip to Bali in September.
In conclusion, my first BellaBox.... I'm super impressed! I can't wait to try these products and I can't wait for next months box.
For anyone who wants to try them out, I got my first box for only $10 and subsequent monthly boxes are still only $15. I think even cheaper if you sign up to an annual membership. From what I've seen, it usually contains at least $70 worth or products and quite often has 1-2 full sized products. This is a really great subscription to have if you're like me and love to try new things but really can't decide once you get to the store. I also travel a lot for work so I also think it's a great idea to get your hands on sample/travel sized products that you can take with you. If your interested in checking them out, get on bellabox.com.au.
Cathie May
xoxo
Sunday 18 May 2014
Product Review: Jessup 8 Piece Kabuki Brush Set
While on a mission a few weeks ago to read up on reviews about the "Holy Grail" Sigma brushes, I came across a few blogs & vlogs which referred to the Jessup Kabuki/Sigma dupes. So when faced with the $90 Sigma set I was about to purchase or the alternative $15 Jessup set which had some great reviews, I figured, what the hell, give it a try, I spend more than that on coffee each week!
Cathie May
xoxo
So I followed all the links I found to eBay and made my exciting purchase, and about 2 weeks later, my bargain arrived on my doorstep. There are a 3 options you can choose from; black & gold, black & sliver and white & silver. In my opinion, the black & gold look the classiest, so I went with them. They are priced at AU$13.97 a set + AU$0.99 postage from China, so a small price to pay for a product with such great reviews.
When I unboxed them, my first impression was how soft yet full they are. They were packaged individually and generously. This morning when putting on my very basic everyday wear I decided to test out a few of the brushes.
To apply my foundation, I used the large Tapered Kabuki. While I prefer the finish you get from a slightly used brush (and I think this needs a little wear), it was amazingly soft and enabled me to get great coverage and a flawless finish, without caking on too much product.
Next I used the large Round Kabuki to set my face with powder. I felt the brush was extremely soft but perhaps a little stiff which meant the powder didn't quite apply the way it usually would with my Nude by Nature Mineral brush. Nonetheless, still great quality and an extremely soft brush.
To apply a small coat of blush, I used the large Flat Kabuki. Just like Tapered Kabuki, it exceeded my expectation and provided me with the exact amount of coverage as well as precision I was looking for.
The only other brush I used today from this set was the small Precision Round. I used this to apply a minimal amount of base colour to my eyelids. As with the other brushes, I was pleased with the quality of the brush and its application. As I mentioned above, I was going for a very minimal, everyday look, so I didn't have the opportunity to utilise all of the brushes.
Overall, I'm extremely impressed with the Jessup Kabuki brushes thus far, having tried 4 out 8 in the set. The are great value for money from what I've seen so far. However, I am keen to see how they hold up over time and after several washes, so once I get to that point I will provide you with an update. Until then, I highly recommend the use of these brushes, if you are looking for something on the lower end of the price scale.
To apply my foundation, I used the large Tapered Kabuki. While I prefer the finish you get from a slightly used brush (and I think this needs a little wear), it was amazingly soft and enabled me to get great coverage and a flawless finish, without caking on too much product.
Next I used the large Round Kabuki to set my face with powder. I felt the brush was extremely soft but perhaps a little stiff which meant the powder didn't quite apply the way it usually would with my Nude by Nature Mineral brush. Nonetheless, still great quality and an extremely soft brush.
To apply a small coat of blush, I used the large Flat Kabuki. Just like Tapered Kabuki, it exceeded my expectation and provided me with the exact amount of coverage as well as precision I was looking for.
The only other brush I used today from this set was the small Precision Round. I used this to apply a minimal amount of base colour to my eyelids. As with the other brushes, I was pleased with the quality of the brush and its application. As I mentioned above, I was going for a very minimal, everyday look, so I didn't have the opportunity to utilise all of the brushes.
Overall, I'm extremely impressed with the Jessup Kabuki brushes thus far, having tried 4 out 8 in the set. The are great value for money from what I've seen so far. However, I am keen to see how they hold up over time and after several washes, so once I get to that point I will provide you with an update. Until then, I highly recommend the use of these brushes, if you are looking for something on the lower end of the price scale.
If you're interested in purchasing them, the seller is lady_show_house, and this is the listing: http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/151274813708
Cathie May
xoxo
Saturday 17 May 2014
Product Review: Revlon ColorStay Makeup For Combination/Oily Skin, Medium Beige (#240)
This has been labelled as a "Holy Grail" product by so many bloggers and vloggers, so when I saw 50% off at Chemist Warehouse I took it as my prime opportunity to test it out. Prior to trying this I was switching between Dior and Napoleon foundations, so I have to admit I am probably a little more critical of this product that I should be.
My initial opinion; considering the formula is specifically for combination/oily skin, on the first day I used it I was somewhat disappointed by the sheen which developed across my T-zone by lunch time. The only other product I've used where I've needed a powder touch up was Nude by Nature.
So day 2 & 3 I used a different moisturiser & primer and while I'm still working through the ultimate combination of products, I think I'm starting to appreciate this product more, mostly for the longevity. I have never had a foundation stay put for so many hours. It really is Colourstay!
So my plan is to continue using this while I work on the ultimate formula or moisturiser, primer & foundation.
I'll keep you updated when I finally figure out my optimal combination of products, however until then I highly recommend giving this product a try.
On another note, I had a highly anticipated purchase arrive in the mail yesterday, and I'm hoping I have a chance to use it in the next couple of days so I can share it with you.
Cathie May
xoxo
My initial opinion; considering the formula is specifically for combination/oily skin, on the first day I used it I was somewhat disappointed by the sheen which developed across my T-zone by lunch time. The only other product I've used where I've needed a powder touch up was Nude by Nature.
So day 2 & 3 I used a different moisturiser & primer and while I'm still working through the ultimate combination of products, I think I'm starting to appreciate this product more, mostly for the longevity. I have never had a foundation stay put for so many hours. It really is Colourstay!
So my plan is to continue using this while I work on the ultimate formula or moisturiser, primer & foundation.
I'll keep you updated when I finally figure out my optimal combination of products, however until then I highly recommend giving this product a try.
On another note, I had a highly anticipated purchase arrive in the mail yesterday, and I'm hoping I have a chance to use it in the next couple of days so I can share it with you.
Cathie May
xoxo
Friday 16 May 2014
Product Review: Maybelline Colour Sensational Lip Colour, Are You Red-dy (#625)
Ok so my first product review....here we go....
I recently visted Chemist Warehouse during their 50% off Maybelline sale and picked up a heap of bargain products to try. This inlcuded Colour Tattoo Eyeshadows, Concealer & Lipsticks. As I use each of them I'll proide you with a review.
To start with, I'll share with you my instant love for red lipstick. I'll preface this by saying I have never ever worn red lipstick in my life. While I've always wanted to try it, I've been scared and felt it might be a little bit "out-there" and dramatic for me. After watching some of the lovely Lauren Curtis' tutorials I finally built up the courage to give it a go. So on my adventure to Chemist Warehouse I picked up a heap of the Maybelline Colour Sensational Lip Colours, inlcuding Are You Red-dy (#625).
My verdict: Absolutely love it! After the intial 45 seconds of fear applying it and seeing all its lucious red pigment, I fell in love. Not only was it increabibly creamy to apply, it has an amazing sheen that's not too over the top. After I applied it, I then ate my breakfast, drank a cup of tea and I found more stayed on my lips than transferred to my mug, which is always a good sign. At this stage I'd say this is a great formula and colur for anyone taking the leap with red lipstick.
Chemist Warehouse have continued their 50% off on Maybelline and have extended this to Revlon, Rimmel & Sally Hansen so watch this space.
Cathie May
xoxo
Thursday 15 May 2014
My first post
Well I finally bit the bullet... I'm here, finally writing my first blog post. I've spent the better part of the last 4+ years reading & learning from amazing blogs written by others. So while I have no expectation that I can make this as incredible as others I've read, I've always valued reading others beauty product feedback & reviews, I hope my thoughts could potentially help others like me, surfing the World Wide Web to find opinions or persuasion.
I'll refrain from proving you much more information about myself for now other than I am a 32 year old married Australian woman. I have no children (yet) but a great love for my Maltese terrier, fitness & beauty. I'll fill you in on the rest in my future posts.
I look forward to sharing my reviews and opinions with you.
Cathie May
xoxo
I'll refrain from proving you much more information about myself for now other than I am a 32 year old married Australian woman. I have no children (yet) but a great love for my Maltese terrier, fitness & beauty. I'll fill you in on the rest in my future posts.
I look forward to sharing my reviews and opinions with you.
Cathie May
xoxo
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