WEDNESDAY WONDERS: DAY CREAMS

It's not secret; I'm a skincare junkie. I love finding new products and noticing a difference to the appearance of my skin. Today's 'Wednesday Wonders' is all about the day creams I have on rotation.

I know a lot of people who use one moisturiser day and night but I find that I prefer to have a few options dependent on what my skin needs as it does change. 

For illuminating 

Some days I wake up and my skin just look dull. I have no other way of explaining it than 'dull'. If you've experienced you'll know what I'm talking about! When I want to perk up my skin, make it look healthy, illuminate and really put that 'glow' back into my complexion I reach for the Ultimate Defense Illuminating Cream* by the brand Racinne, a new brand to hit the shores of Australia. It's a simple cream that is on the thicker side but definitely not too thick for day time wear. It absorbs quickly, I find that this really makes a noticeable difference when used under make up and it makes me skin feel incredible. It has a really lovely fresh scent, the only down side to this product is the bulky packaging. I have used this at night, just applied a thicker layer and teamed it with an oil, and I find it works well at hydrating the skin. There is a serum from the same line I really want to try and I'm excited for this brand to be available in Australia! I think if you frequently have dull, dry skin look then this is a good one to look at getting. 

RRP $44 available here

For hydration

I spoke about this in my 'July Favourites' but lately I've been getting a lot of dry patches and it's been driving my insane! This Sukin Rose Hip Hydrating Day Cream* is a thick cream consistency which honestly did scare me at first. However I gave it a go and I've been really surprised at how much I love this product. It contains rose hip oil and pomegranate to help combat the dry patches however it doesn't cling onto them, instead is just really soothing and hydrating. This absorbs a lot quickly then I thought it would especially considering it contains rose hip oil! I think during the winter months when I'm getting these dry patches this will be sticking around for day time however I'm unsure as to how it'll perform in the warmer weather - it may make me look oily. Overall, if you're looking to combat extra dry skin but don't want something to heavy during the day I'd give this a go! 

RRP $23.95 available here

For oily days 

You all know I can't do a skincare post without mentioning something from The Body Shop and this Seaweed Mattifying Day Cream is an amazing cream for those of us that do get oily. If I know I'm going to have a massive day and the weather is more warm, I reach for this one. It's a gel consistency which does take some getting used too but it still hydrates the skin whilst helping combat that shine during the day. This is an incredibly fresh smell along with everything else in the line. In summer this is pretty much all I use underneath make up. I would highly recommend this one if you suffer from oily skin - I know how hard it is to find something to work for you especially in the warmer weather! 

RRP $24.95 available here

What are your favourite moisturisers or day creams to use?

Check out my latest giveaway 

*product was provided for consideration - honesty as always 

TRAVELLING BUDDIES

A few weeks ago I went away on a little getaway. Now I haven't been away for a long time and I found it really hard to pack my beauty products. I wanted to keep it minimal but there was so many things I NEEDED to take. In hind-sight these are the products I used most days or things I wish I had of taken instead of others. 

John Frieda Luxurious Volume Touchably Full Hair Shampoo + Conditioner* 

I received these in the mail a day before leaving so it was extremely lucky because I originally had packed another sample size duo I was only taking to use up not because I liked it. I actually have been super impressed by this duo, similarly to the Suigo Volume Line these add volume but don't build up in my hair which I love. I'm actually waiting for John Frieda products to go on a 3 for 2 or another offer at Priceline because I will be repurchasing these over the Suigo line (these are more affordable and do just as good of job) and I also have my eye on some other products from the brand. 

Honey I Washed The Kids Shower Gel 

I have been saving this for when I go away because of the convenient size. As you can see I barely used any because it's SO concentrated and extremely sweet. I'm not a huge fan of this, I feel like it's quite stripping on the skin and leaves you feeling much too 'squeaky' clean but I'll finish it up next time I go away. Oh and the top actually broke at little so this did leak which was annoying! 

Argania Argan Oil 

This smells amazing! It smells like vanilla and deliciousness. I love this oil and if I didn't have so many other oils to get through I'd probably buy the full size. It's a lighter oil so it does weigh down my hair. I found even if I poured too much (stupid packaging) into my hand it still build up or make my hair look greasy. 

Davroe Hair Wellness Tame Lemon Grass Detangler 

I cannot function without a detangler because my hair is so knotty when I get out of the shower it's ridiculous! This was a little sample size again from another sample box at some point. I don't think this was the best but it smelt really great. 

Polished London Dry Shampoo* 

If you seen my 'July Favourites' this was mentioned so I won't bang on about it. It's a fantastic dry shampoo that's more affordable than others but does a great job. I used this soo much when I was away because I wasn't washing my hair as regularly. 

Swisspers 20 Round Make-up Pads* 

I did take some rounds but not enough. This little packet would be perfect for travelling and I think 20 would've been a perfect amount for a week. I didn't realise how much of them I use! For toner twice a day then make up removing - I think I only packed 5 haha. So although this is pretty basic I think that this pack would be perfect to grab if you're going away.

Carmex Moisture Plus in Peach* 

Now I don't know about you but when I'm away doing my make up is a drag so I like to do a base, blush, mascara, eyebrows and then something like this tinted lip balm. This is exactly what the name suggests a moisturising peach tint for the lips. Carmex nailed this because it's definitely hydrating, smells divine and is compact - perfect for travelling. 

YesTo Blueberries Cleansing Facial Towelettes 

If you seen my 'Top 3 Make Up Removers' you'll know that I don't really like using facial wipes anymore. I was using the Wotnot ones but I've run out and haven't had a chance to buy anymore. This pack of 8 was lying around so I thought I'd take these as my make up remover for the week. I actually didn't mind these but was glad to get back and use my cleansing oil. 

Lady Jayne Travel Brush*

This was waiting for me in the mail when I got home and how I wish I could've taken it. I took my massive Tangle Teezer which was so bulky! This would've been perfect and would've actually fit into my make up bag. Next time I'll definitely be taking this one with me. 

So these are some of the products I took with me that I thought I'd share with you! I think next time I'll have a better idea of what I'll use and hopefully cut down on the amount of things I take.  

What are your must-have items when travelling?

Check out my latest giveaway 

*product was provided for consideration - honesty as always 

JULY FAVOURITES

Another month down and we are getting closer and closer to Christmas - yay! I spent most of July on uni holidays so I didn't wear too much make up however I did go away for the week so I managed to squeeze in a few firm make up favourites I wore during that week :)

Nivea In Shower Body Lotion Skin Conditioner* 

This has been getting alot of hype over in the UK and I was hanging out for it to be released in Australia. It's no secret - I hate moisturising my body and I always forget so this is the ultimate body product for me. It's strange at first because you take a big lot into your hand rub it all over then rinse, get out and pat yourself dry and you're all moisturised! It reminds me alot of the Ro's Argan Body Container from Lush but this is much more affordable, doesn't leave you feeling tacky and I think I prefer the fresh scent of this over the rose scent by Lush. I would highly recommend checking this out in the Priceline Skincare Sale (Tuesday 30th & 31st) I know I will be! 

Available here for $7.99 

Polished London Dry Shampoo* 

This is meant to have a coconut scent but I don't think it's too over powering of coconuts. This is a really great dry shampoo and I find it just as good as the more expensive brands however this is much more affordable. I couldn't find it online however I know they stock it and it's less than $5! I've already purchased another one :) 

Tangle Teezer Aqua Splash* 

I've had a Tangle Teezer in the but just the original one. This one is designed so you're able to take it into the shower with you. The inside is hollow so no water gets caught up in the brush which I think it's such a smart idea! I think Tangle Teezers are the best brush you'll ever use in your hair and the fact I can switch this in and out of the shower is perfect for me because I HAVE to brush my conditioner through because I have such knotty hair. I know these are a bit expensive but if you haven't tried a tangle teezer I promise you will love it and so will your hair! 

Available here for $32.95 

Sukin Rose Hip Hydrating Day Cream*

I have only had this two weeks but this is literally my best friend at the moment. My skin is going crazy with the cold weather and I have severe dry patches in-between my eyes, nose and under my eyes which is something I've personally never ever experienced so it's been a struggle! But this for the morning has been a godsend, it's really helping my make up apply smoother and also hydrate those dry patches. If anyone has any other products they recommend for dry patches leave them in the comments! I need help! 

Available here for $23.99 

Puretopia Pure Nutrition Essential Facial Serum* 

I did a full review on this here so I won't say too much about it other than it's really quick and easy, absorbs so well into the skin and is perfect if you're a bit scared of oils but really want to still use something that'll give you the benefits of an oil. I apply this in the morning underneath the day cream and find it doesn't cause too much 'layering' and still helps hydrate the skin. 

Available here for $14.99 (on sale) 

Laura Mercier Oil Free Supreme Foundation* 

This has been reformulated and I never tried the old formula however this foundation is incredible. I tweeted that I may have found a new holy grail foundation and this is it. The coverage is medium yet the finish isn't cakey, it's flawless and gives you a real glow. I'm so in love. I do have to powder it and I'm not sure if I could wear this through the summer months but for right now it's just an amazing product that has been perfect for perking up the skin. I am planning on doing a full review but being a base product I like to trial it for a good few months so keep your eyes peeled. 

Available here for $59.00 

Mac 'Heaux' Lipstick 

I did a full review of this here but I wore this soooo much this month. It's the perfect berry shade - it's not too purple but not too red either. If you're afraid of braving the vampy winter lip this would be a perfect shade for you. It was limited edition however some stores may still have it, if not I'm sure you could find it on eBay or it will be released again in the future :) 

Max Factor Clump Defy Mascara* 

Again I have reviewed this product here where I go into detail about amazingness of this mascara and show it on my lashes etc. Honestly this is the best mascara from the 'drugstore' I've tried in a while. It's lengthening and separating and no clumps! 

Available here $15 (on sale!)

Models Prefer Infinite Colour Shadow Pencil in Bronze Azura 

I used this in my latest 'What's on My Face' and it's such a quick easy product. I swipe it all over my lids then blend out and it's so effortless but looks like you spent time working on your eyes! That's my kind of make up. This does crease on me so I've had to be careful to prime my eyelids properly. It's super pigmented too! I'm impressed it's from ModelsPrefer because usually they can be a bit hit and miss. 

Available here $9.99 

I know alot of these products have been provided to me for consideration but please remember I would not under any circumstance give a product a positive wrap if I didn't believe in it :) 

Have you tried any of these products? What did you think?

Check out my latest giveaway 

*product was provided for consideration - honesty as always 

CLEARASIL DAILY CLEAR VITAMINS & EXTRACT SCRUB

Lately I've been lucky to be sent a few Clearasil products to try out and honestly my expectations weren't very high for any of the products. When I was a teen I used the most stripping of cleansers by Clearasil and those memories haunted me! However after trying the Clearasil Vitamins & Extract Daily Wash and the Rapid Action Pimple Cream my opinion is changing. 

This Daily Clear Vitamins & Extracts Scrub* is from the same line as the facial cleanser I've previously tried and reviewed. I was intrigued to see how this product performed compared to the facial wash. The packaging is almost identical to the wash which I can sometimes get mixed up in the shower but I do love the fresh new look of the packaging. 

The texture of the product is a a thick cream with lots of little exfoliating beads in. It's really refreshing to use because of the aboustely stunning smell of avocado and pomegranate - this is probably my favourite smelling facial product I use. This facial scrub is super gentle and non-abrasive so it would ideal for a sole deep cleanser in the morning or if you prefer a non-abrasive scrub. Personally, I prefer a gritty facial exfoliator so I use this as my morning cleanser and I really have been enjoying it. I find that it's been great lately because I've been getting alot of dry patches, this takes away the dead skin yet doesn't cause further damage. 

Overall

This is a great affordable facial scrub and I really like the constancy, smell and the way it leaves my skin. I don't think you need both the scrub as well as the wash from the line, I think one or the other would suffice depending on what you're looking for. This has been great for morning exfoliation without using something to abrasive. Would I repurchase? I'm not completely sold on it. I guess because I see 'scrub' I think a more gritty formulation however I can't fault the product. It's gentle, smells good and does do some minor exfoliating. If you prefer a more gentle exfoliator I would recommend this one for you :) 

Clearasil have a great skin care guide on their website if you're wandering if this product will suit you :) 

What is your favourite facial scrub to use?

Check out my latest giveaway 

*product was provided for consideration - honesty as always.

NEW THINGS

Recently I went on holiday and on the way home my friend and I couldn't help but take a bit of a detour into the city. I didn't pick up too many things, despite being really tempted, but I thought I would do a post regardless.

Lush was a must stop for me because I don't have one accessible to me where I live. I was very controlled and only bought a Mint Julips Lip Scrub despite wanting to pick up a face mask and numerous other products. At Kit Cosmetics I decided to grab a Soap and Glory Hand Food for my handbag - an amazing scent and product. I also saw the Origins Plantscription Anti-aging concealer and I couldn't leave without it! Lily Pebbles is always raving about it and I'm yet to fall in love with a concealer so my fingers are crossed. At Priceline I decided to grab a few lip products because we all know I can't go shopping without picking up something new to slather on my lips. The Australis Colour Inject in Jitterbug made the cut because I'm yet to try out this formulation so I'm excited to see how it goes! Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stains were a steal at only $10 so I had to pick up this shade 'Sweetheart' to add to my collection. Lastly, the Rimmel Lash Accelerator Endless Mascara jumped into my basket because I've just been drawn to buying the newer release! I don't know why.. It's been calling my name? 

Short and sweet for a haul from me. Refreshing? I don't feel refreshed. This saving money business is no fun. On a lighter note if you're interested in a post about any of the products mentioned do leave a comment letting me know :) 

Check out my latest giveaway 

SPOT ON

Today I have a busy day of getting my hair done, eyebrows waxed and picking up my younger sister from school for a weekend of bonding. Scary I know - more about that later. Today's post is all about a fantastic spot treatment that has been really working for me over the past 2 weeks. 

The Clearasil Rapid Action Pimple Cream* is a spot treatment that claims:

'to visibly reduce the pimple size and redness in just 4 hours' 

As you can imagine I was extremely sceptical about this product. It's a big claim to advertise on a spot treatment and if I was in a shop and was struggling with a big breakout before an event, I'll be honest this is the one I'd buy because of that 4 hour claim. I think alot of girls would too!

Now does it meet those claims?

I'm not completely sold on the 4 hour time but I can say when I pop this on pimples of a night time this does an extremely good job at clearing up a zit. It definitely reduces the size and redness worth effectively than most other spot treatments I've used as it feels as though it's cleansing deep into the skin. It does penetrate into the root of the pimple and draws it out. It is fantastic at clearing the area. 4 hours? I don't know but if you need an overnight fix this is worth giving a go.

The packaging of this product is compact and has a tapered dispenser so it doesn't allow for too much product to be dispensed. My favourite thing about this product is that it is a cream formula over gel! I find it more comfortable to wear on my skin over a gel. I find that because of the cream formula it is less drying than other spot treatments I've been using however it does still contain alcohol so if you're not a fan of products containing alcohol than this may not be for you. 

Overall

I'm really impressed with this spot treatment and it's replaced others I've been using. With the right facial cleanser and skincare routine this would work well. I think if you're after an overnight fix this is a great product to give a go. I would love to see an affordable spot treatment that also helps in fading scars because I always get a huge red mark for weeks after! 

Clearasil have a great skin care guide on their website if you're wandering if this product will suit you :) 

What are your go-to pimple-zapping products?

Check out my latest giveaway 

*product was provided for consideration - honesty as always 

WHAT'S ON MY FACE #3

Recently whilst rotating my everyday make up draw I found a few gems that inspired me today create this look. In particular the Innoxa Antioxidant Lip Glaze in Apple* this colour is so gorgeous and fairly pigmented alone however I felt that over the top of the Kate Moss lipstick in 22 it created such a gorgeous intense glossy finish that would be stunning for a night out. 

For face products I wanted to keep it fairly full coverage. I always find that when I have a bold lip I like to have flawless skin so I went for Revlon Colorstay Normal/Dry in Buff to even out and cover my imperfections. I'm still not sold on this formulation or the finish but I haven't used it much yet to confirm how I feel about it. For under the eyes I used the Origins Ginzing Anti-Aging Concealer which is highly pigmented and a dream to blend. My cheeks were kept minimal with just a dust of Nars Laguna and this amazing Red Earth Blush in 02 Sun Dance for a subtle rosy cheek. I ended up adding some of the Jemma Kidd All Over Radiance Glow in Iced Gold for a little extra something on my cheeks. 

My eyes are probably my favourite part thanks to this Models Prefer Infinite Colour Shadow Pencil in Bronze Aura. I smudged this all over the lid and blended out and up into the crease. I then took the shadow Sandstone from the Stila 'In The Light' palette and blended the lightly into the out third of my crease. I finished the look by dusting some of the shade Kitten over the first third of my eye and done! I did add liquid eyeliner using the Artistry Signature Eyes Liquid Eyeliner for a more dramatic look. If I had of been going out I would've smudged some black kohl liner into my water line however my eyes have been a bit sensitive and since I wasn't actually leaving the house I didn't want to irritate them anymore! Lastly I did a quick coat of Eye Of Horus Goddess Mascara* which I've been loving lately. 

This eye look is super simple but I think it's really wearable for day or night. I think I will be definitely adding some black kohl to my tightline and waterline to finish off the look for when I go out next! 

Check out my latest giveaway 

*product was provided for consideration - honesty as always 

WEDNESDAY WONDERS: OILS

I intended on having this Wednesday Wonder post purely about facial oils however I remembered that I had been loving a body oil as well so decided to mesh the two together! I have a few other body oils and facial oils I'm trying out and enjoying however these are the ones that have turned me into an oil junkie. 

Sanctuary Spa Active Reverse Lipid Recovery Facial Oil* 

This is from a newer range from Sanctuary Spa which is marketed as an anti-aging line. This oil is meant to firm, tone, nourish and leave you with glowing skin and I'm in love with it! It leaves my skin super soft and radiant. It also has made a noticeable difference to my skin tone by helping fade scarring, slowly but I'm noticing it! Overall this makes my skin look healthy. I love the consistency - it's a thinner oil which means it's quicker to absorb into the skin. The smell is a combination of rosehip oil and lavender which is really calming and relaxing at night time. I would recommend this to anyone who is looking for a more radiant complexion. 

Kosmea Skin Clinic Certified Rose Hip Oil* 

I've used Rose Hip oil for a long time but only since the weather has cooled down and my skin has dried out have I gone back to using it regularly. My skin has had dry patches pop up around the eyes, in between my eyebrows and around my nose. This oil fixes them over night! It is a thicker oil than the Sanctuary one but sometime my skin needs that heavier oil. I tend to only use this at night time for that reason but when you wake up your skin feels incredible. This has also helped with fading scarring and I use this my cuticles and elbows if they're cracking. This is probably the best all round oil I've used yet because it is so versatile. 

Palmer's Coca Butter Formula Moisturizing Body Oil 

This has been sitting around my bathroom for the longest time and I haven't been using it! This body oil is designed for when you hop out of the shower. You're meant to leave your skin a little damp, rub this oil over and pat dry. I bought this because I'm soooo bad at moisturising my body so I thought I'd give this a go. But I just wasn't using it and I felt as though it was a pain to stand there dripping wet whilst you rub this all over your body. Long story! Anyway a few weeks ago I decided it was time to use it up and gave it a go using it to shave with and oh my goodness it's so amazing to shave with! It leaves your legs feeling incredible and it's gone from me being 'meh' about it too 'wow' I need this in my bathroom always! 

I'm always looking for new oils too try so what are your favourite body or facial oils too use? 

Oh and side note: I hope you all love More Than Adored's fresh new look! 

Check out my latest giveaway 

*product was provided for consideration - honesty as always 

VIOLET BOX JULY 2013

As some of you Australian beauties may be aware last month a new subscription launched last month called Violet Box. I did a post about the launch box and expressed how I thought last months box was a solid start but was really interested to see how the quality would continue to the coming months.

When I first opened this months box I was a little panicked mainly because it didn't seem to be over flowing with products. However once I removed everything and checked out every piece was extremely impressed! 

Aphelia Peony 9+5 Advanced Beautifying Eye Creme 15mL

'Contains the most powerful micronised herbal extracts. A daily anti-ageing treatment creme designed for the delicate eye area that contains natural multi-vitamins & powerful antioxidants to help fight fine lines, reduce appearance of dark circles and puffy eyes.'

This is a decent sample size of an eye cream and for me a big gripe with subscription boxes is getting insufficient amounts to try before you buy. Aphelia skincare sounds vaguely familiar however this is the first product from them I've ever owned. I'm really excited about this cream and there is also a $10 off discount code for their online store :) 

RRP $69.00 available here

Adorn Cosmetics Eye Create Intensive Shadow, Shade & Eye Create Matte Shadow 1.5g 

'Natural | Non-Toxic | Organic | Australian. For women on the go conscious of a cleaner and greener lifestyle. Every day glamour is no longer bland! Create a mood with our range of toxic free natural and versatile colours. Adorn... Look Good and Feel Better.. Naturally!' 

I've previously received a sample of a shimmery gold shade (from another sample service) and I really love it. I do admit that I'm not a huge fan of loose eyeshadows however I'm excited about these two shades. Quartz is a matte browny shade and Jasper is a shimmery taupe both are really wearable shades so I'm more than happy to have received these two.The box also included a $15 promo code for their online store as well! 

RPP $15 each Matte shadows available here Intensive shadows available here  

St Tropez Bronzing Mousse 120mL 

'This award winning Self Tan Bronzing Mousse is a super-lightweight, easy to apply, velvety mousse that delivers an ultra-even tan. Infused with Aloe Vera and long lasting colour, it will leave you with a natural-looking, healthy bronze glow. Dries in 60 seconds. Paraben free. Oil Free.'

I was so happy when I seen this little guy peeping up at me. I have a tanning series coming up next month so I've been trying out lots of different self-tanners. I haven't bought this one yet because it's a little out of my price range. I think that this is a great inclusion by the team at Violet Box because I feel as though it's a cult product lots of people would love to try but haven't box of the price. 

RRP 120mL $39.95 available here 

Catalina Geo Long and Deep Mascara (full-size product)

'Eyes and Brow Long and Deep Mascara is lengthening to the lashes and water resistant, but comes off with ease when cleansed. Particularly suitable for sensitive eyes, containing Allantoin, Vitamins B5 and E which relieves irritation, repairs damage and hydrates. Comes with bonus refill.' 

When I seen this box in pack I was slightly confused but once realising this came with a bonus refill I was really impressed! Hopefully it's a good mascara because I practically have two of them ha. 

RRP $31.50 available here 

ModelCo Shine Ultra Lip Gloss (full-size product)

'A reflective, shimmering lip gloss that creates glamorous, lacquered effect on the lips. Non-sticky formula glides on evenly, leaving your lips with a luscious, long lasting shine and lustre. Super sleek and super slender, SHINE Ultra Lip Gloss' tall thin bottle fits into the slimmest of evening bags and comes handy with a smart inbuilt mirror.' 

When I saw the inclusion of ModelCo I cringed however this is in the shade 'Strip Tease' and I swear someone once mentioned this is their favourite lip gloss shade. I do actually like the shade and I'm interested to see if it is any good - who knows it may change my thoughts about ModelCo

RRP $18 available here

Overall

Two fullsize products and four deluxe samples. No sachets or weird packaging, decent amounts of product to try out everything and a range of products. I could not be happier with this months box! This is exactly what I hoped that Violet Box would continue with and I'm super excited to see fantastic quality products included! Go Violet Box - cannot wait for next month :) 

For more information or to join click here 

 

Check out my latest giveaway 

*product was provided for consideration - honesty as always 

PHYSICIANS FORMULA SUPER BB STORY + GIVEAWAY

A good portion of the past month has been on holiday and I've been not wearing much make up at all. The lighter coverage products have been getting a work out and this particular line has been used most days where I haven't been wanting a full face. This new range from Physicians Formula released earlier this year. It includes three products a BB cream, concealer and powder. I was super excited to see a brand come out with a powder and concealer to compliment the BB cream. 

Super BB Cream 

As many other typical BB creams this one is designed to be an 'all-in-one' product. Some of the 10+ claims are moisturising, priming, evening out, brightening, long-wearing and smoothing. This particular cream is enriched with Vitamin C and E to help brighten the skin. 

I'll be honest and say this was the product I was least excited about in the line because most other BB creams just haven't worked for me. They melt off, slide around, don't cover or colours don't match my pale skin. I was really surprised by this one. The colour is ever so slightly too dark for my complexion but with adequate blending I can pull it off and when I'm fake tanned it works well. The finish is really glowy which I'm loving for the winter months and it provides a light coverage however for everyday I think that the leave of coverage is great. The wear is what impressed me most about this BB cream, it really lasts on me (hooray!) every time I've used this I have used the powder so perhaps that does compliment the BB cream really well but for once this BB cream works for me. 

RRP $25.95 

Super BB Concealer 

The concealer I think is an amazing addition to compliment the BB cream (I think that about the powder too). Typically BB creams are a lighter coverage so to release a concealer was a very smart move. This concealer is designed to hide dark circles, puffiness, imperfections and redness. For me, this concealer is a little bit too dark to use under my eyes as I prefer a lighter concealer to brighten the area however this is really great for blemishes and scarring which is one of my main concerns. I set this with a powder and find it wears well during the day like the cream. I'm yet to find my perfect concealer for both under the eyes and blemishes but for now, this for blemishes and imperfections to working perfectly for me. 

RRP $22.95

Super BB Powder

Now for the powder and possibly my favourite of the three. As I mentioned before usually BB creams melt away and just don't last on my skin so I was extremely excited to see this came with a powder to set everything in place! This is designed to diffuse the appearance of imperfections, even skin tone and minimise the appearance of pores. Typically I steer clear of any powders that have colouring to them because they usually make me look cakey and orange but this one is heavenly. It applies really smooth, sets everything and doesn't cake up or settle into any lines. It's perfect for touch ups and I've been using this one every single day since I received it in place of my Rimmel Stay Matte. 

RRP $27.95 

Overall 

I've really enjoyed using these products and think Physicians Formula have come up with a really exciting line. The only compliant from me is that the colouring is slightly too dark for me if they had Fair/Light range it would be perfect however they don't! 

GIVEAWAY 

I was also lucky enough to receive enough products to be able to giveaway a whole set of the BB story line to one of my lucky readers! I'm so excited about this giveaway! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Rules

You must do the mandatory entries - I will check 

If you're under the age of 18 then you need to get permission from a parent or guardian as I will need your mailing address 

This is only open to Australian residents (a International one will be at 500+ GFC followers) 

Good luck :) 

*products were provided for consideration and giveaway purposes - honesty as always 

HOW I DEAL WITH BREAKOUTS | PRODUCTS + TIPS

Up till recently my skin had been in great condition with minimal breakouts but about 6 months ago I ceased taking the pill which was prescribed to me years ago to help with my skin. I was so scared going off it so I ensured that I was prepared for the worst! My skin didn't breakout as much as I thought it would however it has been playing up at that time of month so I thought I would show you the products that I've been using to calm down breakouts when they occur. 

Cleanse twice a day and avoid abrasive scrubs  

Cleansing morning and night should go without saying but it is so vital when you feel a pimple coming on or your skin is already breaking out. At night your skin builds up with sebum and other bacteria so although you think 'but I've only been sleeping' it's still important to clean your skin. If during the day you wear make up make sure you're thoroughly removing your make up by either a make up remover and cleanser or a double cleanse - you don't want anything extra sitting on breakouts. 

Avoiding any scrubs that are harsh and abrasive is also key. They can lead to rupturing the pimple and causing more to pop up in the area. I usually switch to a more gentle scrub and if it's an active pimple I avoid the area and only massage into the rest of my face. 

Benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid?

Some people swear by one and not the other but I think it's important to note what is in your products, if it's working and if it isn't possibly trying out the other. I'm lucky and both do work for me but this  La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo which is 5.3% Benzoyl Peroxide and it has transformed my skin completely. I use this morning and night before a moisturiser and it helps to fasten up the healing process of the affected area. Most products containing either of these ingredients are designed to treat acne so they can be drying, ensure you're still moisturising your skin after use. 

Avoid popping! 

Probably the hardest thing for me to do! I HATE having pimples and I love the satisfaction of popping the bugger however I've found that every time I feel the urge to go in my my nails I apply a face mask. My newly found holy grail breakout soothing one is The Body Shop Tea Tree Face Mask it's amazing at soothing the soreness, reducing redness and drawing out impurities. I find that this isn't too harsh on the skin so when I am breaking out I can apply every other day. 

If even after doing this you really NEED to get the sucker cleanse your face and your hands prior to going in. Avoid using your nails because that will rupture the skin worse than just applied pressure. I usually wrap a tissue around my fingers to catch any of the muck. Cleanse after and apply a spot treatment. The only I've been using for a long time is the Clean & Clear Advantage Fast Clearing Spot Treatment. This is great for reducing the redness and size of the pimple however I find it can dry out the area so don't apply to much. 

So that's just a few products and tips I use when my skin turns on me! 

I think I'll do another post soon about what I use after the pimple is active to help heal and fade the area too so keep your eyes peeled for that.

What are your favourite products or tips for dealing with breakouts?

ROUND UP | ICON INDIA HAIR PRODUCTS

Although I did have a few prepared posts for before my holiday I didn't end up posting as much as I would have liked. I feel as though I'm so behind with my posts for More Than Adored and on catching up on my favourite blogs but that's what I can spend my weekend doing. 

Today's review is all about a new range I hadn't previously heard about until Salon Cosmetics introduced me to the products. I've been experimenting more and more with my hair products lately so I was really excited to try out the products especially when I read in Kat's review that people such as Madonna and Penelope Cruz use the products and that she really enjoyed the products.

INDIA SHAMPOO AND CONDITIONER 

Now the most distinct thing about this range is the smell it's really spicy amber scent which I personally wasn't a massive fan of because it is so overpowering and does linger however if you do enjoy those type of scents then you'll LOVE this range. The shampoo lathered well and seemed to do a great job at cleansing the hair however I felt as though it did increase the tangles in my hair after use which brings me to the conditioner - usually conditioners help to detangle which I felt this one didn't! I do think it was okay at nourishing the hair but I would've loved to see more of a detangling element to this product. After use aside from the increased tangles my hair felt clean and soft so these products are in no way a fail products 

INDIA HEALING SPRAY 

This is a cream consistency that you're meant to spray into the hair direct from the bottle which was strange because it wasn't a mist. I preferred to squirted some into my hands then work it through my locks so that it didn't build up and distribute unevenly. I always use some kind of leave in conditioning product so I did enjoy using this however it didn't stand out to me as an amazingly nourishing product. 

INDIA OIL 

This is probably the favourite of all the products and the one I recommend most. I'm really fussy with oils and this product is great! It's a light oil which didn't ever weigh down my hair or cause my hair to look oily. I found it did really nourish the hair, add shine and tame any frizzy bits. I found I could use this on dry or damp hair and it worked well either way. 

Overall

I do think all the products are worthwhile trying if you're interested in the distinct smell because I know some people will love the scent. I would recommend the healing oil first because I do think it's a fantastic oil and I think that the shampoo and conditioner could work for someone who doesn't have so many problems with tangles! These products are free from any nasties too so they will benefit your hair rather than just build up and make it feel limp.

You can buy any of these products from Hair2Go - there is some great value packs on their which are great if you're interested.

Have you heard of this brand and tried any products? What did you think of the products? 

*products provided for consideration - honesty always!