Lust Have It! - November 2014

Well, November is done at dusted. I am geared up for Carols in the Domain and hounding my boyfriend to come up with picnic basket ideas.

I was absolutely ecstatic to find my Lust Have It pack on my door step coming home from work on Friday.

Let's take a closer look

Essenzza Fuss Free Natural Japanese Facial Treatment Masks x2

FULL SIZE

$4.95 each

I love facial masks, so much that I have got my boyfriend into it too. We now mask every weekend. From the information card, this mask is less messy than traditional face masks. We will be putting this to good use next week!

 The Cosmetic Kitchen

FULL SIZE

$34.95

I am really happy to see this product in the pack! So far, I have loved every single Cosmetic Kitchen product. They are Australian made and owned with no nasties. In my opinion, blush is the most aesthetically pleasing beauty product. I picked the shade in Sherbert because I don't have a lot of coral blushes.

Aveda Colour Conserve Daily Color Protect

SAMPLE SIZE

This product helps preserve coloured hair. A little disappointed to see this, I love Aveda products but I never colour my hair!
 

 Natralus Paw Paw Pure Gel

FULL SIZE

$6.15

I will be taking this everywhere I go since I'd get weird and strange insect bites all over my arms and legs during summer.

 Jelly Pong Pong Caribbean Sun - Bronzer and Blusher

FULL SIZE

$35

I've been wanting to try Jelly Pong Pong for a VERY long time. I've heard so much about this UK Brand in the past few years. I don't know how LHI managed to get JPP involved... but you guys are amazing. I am all about multi-purpose products that will help me to save time in the morning. This product does not contain fragrance, mineral oils or Phthalate. It is great for sensitive and suitable for oily skins. No comedogenic

Overall, I am very pleased with my LHI this month :)
Just hope that we will get our December box in time for Christmas!!!

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Sun Safe and Summer Ready: Your SunSense Sunscreen Guide

Beach culture was a big part of my teenage-hood. When I was 15, my friends and I were out on one sole mission - a flawless tan all year round. We'd spend hours cooking under the sun, lying to our parents about how we applied sunscreen every hour and coming home red, burnt and peeling. 

I started to notice freckles and severe sun damage to my forehead a couple of years after high school, it was a terrifying experience for a 19 year old. I have been taking good care of my skin for the past 5-6 years, and nurturing it with quality skincare products and the right sun protection. I still have sun damage on my forehead and freckles on my face, but I was able to minimise further damage by taking precautions and using sunscreen all year round.

As much as I love Mean Girls' Don't-Have-Sex-Because-You-Will-Get-Pregnant-And-Die approach, I thought I'd provide you guys some reasoning as to why Sunscreen should be in your makeup stash all year round. 

Lets go through some FAQ, I did some research and came up with some interesting answers.

Physical Vs Chemical

 Physical sunscreen protects your skin by blocking sun rays and prevents your body from absorbing harmful rays. Physical blocks often utilise ingredients such as Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide, these are less likely to provide you with a white over-cast after application.

Chemical blocks interact with your cells, the ingredients will act as a filter and reduce UV penetration. Some chemical block contains UV absorbing chemicals that may also scatter UV rays. Common ingredients in chemical blocks: Octylcrylene, Avobenzone, Octinoxate, Octisalate, Oxybenzone, Homosalate, Helioplex, 4-MBC, Mexoryl SX and XL, Tinosorb S and M, Uvinul T 150, Uvinul A Plus.

What is SPF?

SPF = Sun Protection Factor. It is a comparative measure to indicate how long it may take for you to get sunburnt (red) with/without sunscreen. For example, I get red after 5 minutes in the sun, an SPF of 30 will allow me to remain in the sun 30 times longer than it would usually take for me to get "red". 

UVA (Ultraviolet A) and UVB (Ultraviolet B)?

Both UVB and UVA rays may contribute to skin/eye damage and skin cancer. Therefore sunscreen should be a crucial part of your daily routine as UVB and UVA rays have the ability to suppress your immune system. 

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, UVA rays account for up to 95% of UV radiation reaching the earth's surface. UVA can penetrate the subcutaneous layer (which is the layer under your dermis), as a result, it penetrates deeper than UVB and contributes to general cumulative sun damage and pre-manture aging. UVA also has the potential to initiate and contribute to skin cancer. This is the ray that increases our melanoma and tans our skin.

UVB targets the epidermal layer (the more superficial layer of our skin), it is responsible for redness and sun burns. The intensity of UVB rays are scaled based on location, time of the day and season. UVB can damage your skin during all four seasons, it assists in developing skin cancer and contributes to pre-mature aging.

How often should I re-apply my sunscreen?

The cancer council recommends reapplication every 2 hours (this includes water-resistant products), however, if you begin to notice some redness or tenderness within 2 hours, reapply immediately.

What to look for in a Sunscreen?

1. Photostability - Physical Blocks are "photostable" this means that it won't break down. However, some chemical blocks containing Avobenzone is not particularly stable.
2. Broad Spectrum Protection - Protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Physical block can filter both UVA and UVB rays. Chemical blocks are able to filter both rays, however this is based on their ingredients. Most product would indicated whether both rays are protected against.
3. SPF - The SPF in your foundation is often inadequate during summer. It is recommended to use protection that this above SPF 15.
4. Irritability -  Overall, Chemical blocks are known to cause more irritations than Physical blocks. However, You might want to avoid Physical Blocks that contains Titanium Oxide if you react to mineral makeup as it may potentially trigger break outs. If you have sensitive skin, try a test patch on your wrist.
5. Dryness - Dryness is caused by the high alcohol content from certain sunscreen. Alcohol is added so that the texture is less greasy. If you have dry skin like me, stick with sunscreen with less alcohol ;)

SunSense Clear Gel SPF 50

• Protects against both UVA and UVB rays
• Chemical block
• Preservative free
• 60 minutes water resistant

Comments:

Clear gel sunscreen. This is mum's favourite. If you're scared of the white over cast on your face after you've applied sunscreen. This is the right product for you, no white residue guaranteed!

Ingredients:
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane 5.0%, Homosalate 5.0%, Octocrylene 10.0%, Octyl Methoxycinnamate 10.0%, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate 3.0%

SunSense Sport

• Protects against both UVA and UVB rays
• Physical block
• Convenient tubes and roll on sizes handy for carrying & application.
• 4 hours water resistant.
• SPF 50+
• Sand and Sweat resistant.

Comments:

Initially, I thought this would be heavy duty... by heavy duty, I mean thick and greasy. My usual sport sunscreens are comparative to smearing lard over my arms. This was surprisingly light and fluffy. Two thumbs up!

 Ingredients
Aqua (Water), Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Glycerin, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Isostearic Acid, 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor, Titanium Dioxide, Butylene Glycol, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, VP/Eicosene Copolymer, Benzophenone-3, Triethanolamine, Phenoxyethanol, Xanthan Gum, Aluminium Stearate, Dimethicone, Cetyl Alcohol, Magnesium Aluminium Silicate, Polyacrylic Acid, Methylparaben, Disodium EDTA, Propylparaben, BHT, Parfum

 

SunSense Clear Mist

• Protects against both UVA and UVB rays
• Chemical block
• 3 hours water-resistant
• Multi-directional spray for ease of application.

Comments:

This is an excellent spray for those with facial hair, my boyfriend is in love with this sunscreen because it doesn't get caught in his beard! I like to spray and rub. Anyone with any skin can use this spray, just be a little cautious if you are using it on your face. You want some blotting paper or loose powder handy if you are spraying this on your face and you have oily skin. Mum has oily skin, she looked like she was ready to fry some chips after she sprayed this on her face.

 Ingredients 
Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane 5.0%, Homosalate 5.0%, Octocrylene 10.0%, Octyl Methoxycinnamate 10.0%, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate 3.0%

SunSense Daily Face

• Protects against both UVA and UVB rays
• Physical block
• It is fragrance free and oil free.
• Non greasey
• Sheer tint for an invisible matt finish.
• SPF 50+

Comments:

Another excellent product for normal to dry skin. The consistency may be a little greasy for oily skin. I would recommend loose powder after application. For me, the tint did not cover any flaws or uneven skin tone, but it's a great base for powder foundation.

 Ingredients 
Aqua (Water), Glycerin, C12-15 Alkyl Ethylhexanoate, Cetyl Alcohol, Titanium Dioxide, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Benzophenone-3, PVP, VP/Eicosene Copolymer, Isostearic Acid, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Phenoxyethanol, Xanthan Gum, Aluminium Stearate, Butylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Magnesium Aluminium Silicate, Methylparaben, Disodium EDTA, CI 77492, Propylparaben, PEG-4 Laurate, BHT, CI 77491, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate

 SunSense Moisturing Face

• Protects against both UVA and UVB rays
• Chemical block
• Light, non-greasy.
• Moisturising base for dry skin.
• Can be used under make-up.
• SPF 50+ 

 Comments:

Hands down the BEST facial sunscreen I have ever used. I know it's designed for dry/normal skin, but I would highly recommend this for oily skin as well. It dries matte! No grease, no oily residue. Excellent to use alone or act as a fantastic make up base. HG product right here. If you're looking for the perfect facial sunscreen this summer, THIS IS IT.

  Ingredients
Aqua (Water), C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Cyclomethicone, Glycolic Acid, Isostearic Acid, Niacinamide, PEG-100 Stearate (and) Glyceryl Stearate, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Ammonium Hydroxide, Magnesium Aluminium Silicate, Methylene Bis-Benzotriazolyl Tetramethylbutylphenol, Butylene Glycol, Cetyl Alcohol, Xanthan Gum, Dimethicone, Decyl Glucoside, Methylparaben, Disodium EDTA, Propylparaben, Tocopherol, Propylene Glycol

SunSense Lip Balm

• Physical block
• Soothes and moisturises dry and chapped lips.
• Smooth glide-on applicator provides an even distribution over both lips.
• Suitable for all skin types.
• SPF 50+ 
• UVA &UVB protection
• Low-irritant formulation, free of PABA, PABA derivatives, lanolin and contains no preservatives.

Comments:

A creamy balm in a tube essentially. It is super moisturising and fantastic for my dry chapped lips. I've been using Palmer's Sunscreen Stick previously. It was a little waxy and provided OK moisture. This product topped off the game. I'm converted, let me join your clan.

Ingredients:
Bemotrizinol 1.0%, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane 2.5%, Octyl Methoxycinnamate 3.0%, Oxybenzone 1.0%, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate2.4%, Titanium Dioxide 0.7%

*These products were provided for my consideration, all opinions are my own. 

Do you use sunscreen everyday?
 

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Sculpture By the Sea - 2014 {Picture Heavy}

Just wanted to share some photos from Scultpure By the Sea. A mixture of amazing art works from Bondi and Tamarama Beach.

A view of Bondi

Bondi Beach

THESE ARE LIPSTICKS! (Fake of course)

We're Fryin' Out Here!

"Wood Whale" Thanks to Loz from Polish and Patterns ;)

Grounds of Alexandria's pop up store!

Creepy babies

Gotta get this on Instagram!

Street Art

Street Art

Beauty Favourites All Star

Initially, I was planning to call this post, "My Favourite Beauty Products of All Time".

That just reminded me of Kanye West telling the whole world how Beyonce has one of the best music videos of ALL TIME. It'll ring in your head like a hangover, so I decided to change the title to "All Star".

I guess this is a little more "high end", I do have a range of budget beauty products I love and adore, but I'm still trying to build my list, so I'll save that for another time.

I am a picky person and it takes a lot for me to re-purchase, so I don't have enough favourites to make monthly posts, but here's a handful of products I swear by/use religiously for the past year or five..
 

Dolly Wink Volume Mascara is a new-comer, I purchased this mascara out of curiosity while I was in Japan. It ended up being my favourite waterproof mascara. It will lengthen, thicken and curl. The wand is designed to reach smaller lashes. I will have a separate review up shortly.

Eye of Horus Eyeliner is incredible. I've tried too many eyeliners that smudged all over my hooded lids. When I received this from one of the beauty boxes, I was gobsmacked. Needless to say, the colour is gorgeous, the consistency is smooth and won't tug at your lids. Most importantly, it stayed put, no more smudging! I anticipate to try their mascara, I heard it's equally incredible. See my previous review here

Shiseido Eyelash Curler. I have been using this curler for the past 5 years and it had never failed me. It will reach most hard to reach lashes and dare I say, designed for short lashes and almond/hooded eyes. I'll have a post dedicated to battling out Shiseido VS Shu Uemura curlers in the upcoming weeks.

Shiseido Foundation Brush. I know, I know, there's a couple of Shiseido products in this post. I previously worked for Shiseido, however, this doesn't skew my view. There are good and bad products in each brand, I just happened to be lucky enough to test and try all their beauty products during my time there. I've tried a few brushes and have experienced a significant amount of fall outs, this brush is excellent in the sense that you will so nil to minimal fall out and it will work with pretty much all types of base. Cream, liquid, powder, BB creams... etc.. with the exception of mineral foundations, which I don't use too much because it gets too messy and I'm always in a hurry. You will receive an even spread with no brush marks.

Bobbi Brown Bronzer is something I discovered while I was in Hong Kong. My aim was to purchase as much Chanel, Dior and Guerlain products as my wallet can possibly allow... but I ended up getting Bobbi Brown products. This bronzer is perfect for my olive skin, my previous Bourjois bronzer made me look dirty. This is excellent for contour, cheeks and even as an eye shadow. See my detailed review here

I went to the Clinique counter for a free makeover and a foundation sample. I told the consultant about my pores and she gave me a generous sample of Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Foundation. I took it home, didn't have very high hopes about it and used it a week later. It worked really well with my skin and evened out my skin tone without clogging my pores. Apparently my pores will become less visible as I continue to use it.. I haven't got to that stage yet, but it's a great instant cover up.

The Giorgio Armani lipstick is another accidental encounter. I wanted to get a MAC lipstick, I stood around their counter for a good 10 minutes waiting for someone to help me and got ignored. Giorgio Armani just happened to be right next door, the consultant was brilliant and treated me like a decent human being. This product was purchased partially based on excellent customer service and partially based on quality and texture. Creamy, velvety with sleek packaging.. What more can a girl as for?

Korres Lip Butter reigned supreme within the blogosphere a couple of years back. I was in search for a lip product that was actually effective (Unfortunately, EOS did not work for my chapped lips). This is my go-to lip product, it is soft, creamy, sheer and treats my chapped lips well. Great for everyday wear if you want a light tint on your lips.

What are your "All Star" products?

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Lust Have It Monthly: October 2014

I can't believe we're in November and Christmas is just around the corner, I am super duper excited because I get 2 weeks off work YAY for compulsory leave!!!

My October Lust Have It finally came. We waited, but it's well worth the wait.
Let's take a look at the content.

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse

SAMPLE SIZE

   A multipurpose dry oil that nourishes and repairs. I've heard a lot about this oil, so I'm really excited that it was included in this pack. I will definitely try this on my skin, but I'm not really convinced about using oil in my hair. I always end up with dirt balls from the day to day dust and environmental grime at the end of the day.

 Colour By TBN Lipstick

FULL SIZE

$3.50

I've never heard of this brand, at first glance, I thought it was from BYS. This colour is a little bright for me, so I might pass this on to my mum. 

 Montagne Jeunesse Glacial Clay Spa

FULL SIZE

$4.99

The other option is the Dead Sea Mud Spa.

I thought this was a liquid clay mask but it's actually a fabric clay mask! I've been masking every weekend so this is perfect. 

 Inika Black Kohl Pencil with Sharpener

FULL SIZE

$29

The most anticipated product of the pack, this product alone made the October pack worth my wait. Inika is certified organic/vegan and cruelty free. The brand philosophy ticks all of my boxes :)

I can't wait to try this, the sharpener is another bonus! :D :D :D

 So Susan Intense Eye Shadow Palette with Coated Pigments

FULL SIZE

$35

I have never heard of this brand before, so I did a little research. So Susan is focused on infusing wrinkle relief technology. This quad is designed to provide intense, long lasting colour. The colours are gorgeous. A part from the baby blue colour, I would probably wear everything else on a regular basis. I'm excited to try this product also!

 Glamourflage Awesome Eva Eye Mask

FULL SIZE

$7.95

The other option is their Saucy Sue Shower Cap. I think the shower cap would have been a little bit more useful to me.

Overall, I thought this was a fantastic pack, the exciting products significantly overshadows the products that I will be passing on. I can't wait to start drawing with my Inika eyeliner and painting my lids with So Susan! Great work LHI! I hope every month will be this great ;)

What did you think of this pack?

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Review: Meme Box ScentBox #5 Tropical Fruits

Boutique Bebe Coconut Pack 100g

FULL SIZE

$20

Made from extra virgin coconut oil. This is a soap like facial pack for deep cleansing, treating pores and improving skin elasticity and firmness. At first glance, I thought this was just another piece of soap, but with the added benefits and the current hype for coconut oil/water... I'm on board. Whatever it takes to get rid of my enlarged pores. I would usually deter people from using a bar of soap to cleanse their face due to hygiene reasons... but I'll turn a blind eye this time. 

Evas Vitamin Body Wash 200ml

FULL SIZE

$6

I received my wash in strawberry. From the product card, I don't think this body wash has any "special powers".

 

Konad Niju Mango Moisture Hand Cream 60ml

FULL SIZE

$6

Contains organic argan oil, shea butter, olive oil and vitamin E. I'm always using hand creams, no complaints here.

 

LadyKin Twinklight Soft Foam Cleansing Kiwi 100ml

FULL SIZE

$10

This product claims to cleanse, nourish and purify. Infused with natural fruit extracts it will remove makeup without irritating your skin.  This is perfect for me, I only ever use makeup remover for waterproof makeup and I'd wash everything else off with my cleanser (is that bad?). 

Konad Scented Polish 10ml

FULL SIZE

$6

Mine is in Pineapple. Pineapples are the new Owls this season, hipsters are loving it. We saw several girls walking around the CBD with pineapples on their shirts. Anywho, I uncapped the nail polish and took a deep breath trying to get a whiff of the pineapple scent. Unfortunately all I smelt was nail lacquer. I referred back to the information card and realised that it'll smell fruity once it dries - lasts for 7 days. I'll get back to you with this one. I never thought I'd like yellow nail polish, but this colour is quite subtle and wearable, it's a keeper. 

Overall, I thought this was a nice box with a 5 full size products. However, I feel like this box is designed for teens? Does anyone else feel this way just by looking at the overall content of this box? The one thing that stood out for me was the coconut bar and the scented nail polish (not that I always smell my nails).

*This box was sent to me for consideration. All opinions are my own.

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