Saturday, July 29, 2017

EVENT: Philosophy Skincare Launch @ Ovolo Hotel, Woolloomooloo

 

I discovered philosophy 7 years ago, I was first introduced to their Microdelivery Peel by a sales consultant to improve my skin texture and rid dead skin. I was a poor student at that time, so with haste, I purchased the product. I hoped for greatness and greatness it delivered, since then I added several Philosophy products into my collection. Who would have thought, 7 years later I'd be joining Philosophy in their media event.

The event took place at Ovolo Hotel, I was in awe when I walked in to see the floral centre piece.!!!
We re-visited a series of products, old and new. From the Microdelivery Peel to Cinnamon Buns body wash (smells so good I wanted to eat it!)




An important point to highlight is the re-vamp of Philosophy's Hope In A Jar - a cream Oprah herself raved about. I owned this cream and I absolutely loved the whipped texture but unable to withstand the scent. Philosophy took on consumer feedback and created Philosophy Hope in a Jar Renewed. It's lightweight with a fresh scent.

If you liked the formula of Hope in a Jar but stopped using it due to the scent like me, I would recommend you to give Hope in a Jar Renewed a go! Or at least test it out at David Jones!


To top things off, we were each give Gabby Bernstein's book, I am an avid reader of classics. This is my first kind of self help book - although this is not the type of book I would usually pick up, I am still willing to give it a go.


Signing off with some yummy breakfast foods photos!
If you have tried Philosophy, I would love to know what you tried, and if you haven't! I'd like to know what is on your wish-list

Lily not Louise attended this event as a guest of Philosophy Skincare Australia.

Wednesday, July 26, 2017

Brand Focus: L'UNICO Luxury Skincare (Day, Night, Eye, Vitamin C, Phyto Peel and Hydrating Mask)



Winter is a dreadful time for my skin, it gets dehydrated and dry at the same time, I use to hate the fact that we never have a heater at our place.. but being at work, sitting under a heater for 8 hours a day doesn't do any favours for my skin.

For the past couple of week I have been trialling a variety of products from L'unico. I provided a brief outline about L'unico in the event post, so if you want to get to know L'unico as a brand, click here.

This review will be split in half, I will be reviewing L'unico's Essential Beauty Pack followed by a couple of treatment products.

L'UNICO ESSENTIAL BEAUTY PACK - $350

Undoubtedly, this is a bit of an ultimate beauty pack, containing your day, night, eye and serum.
Four of L'unico's best selling products. They are compact and excellent for travel. This beauty pack is targeted to those who are looking for plumpness, hydration and elasticity.


YOUTH ESSENCE DAY CREAM 15mg

  • A luxurious day cream that hydrates and works to boost collagen types I, III and IV synthesis, minimising collagen degradation.
  • It aims to increase tone elasticity and density. Helps to mitigate the damage of UV exposure.
  • Leaving no residue and the skin feels velvety smooth after application.

MY VERDICT

A lovely light weight yet hydrating day cream, there is a slight floral scent to this cream and it's quite pleasant. I enjoy using this day cream under my makeup as it allows my foundation to sit nicely. This day cream does not contain any SPF which means I can wear it on quiet days in. This may pose as an inconvenience to some but it really does not bother me.

My skin did feel velvety smooth following application, I think that's why the foundation sits so nice underneath and I don't need to use a primer. I have not noticed any significant changes to my skin, I believe I may uncover changes with continued use.  

REGENERATIVE NEUROPEPTIDE NIGHT FORMULA 15mg

  • A rich night cream that helps to reverse the appearance of wrinkles and expression lines.
  • Helps boost keratin, protein and collagen types I, II, III and IV synthesis.
  • Contains Vitamin A that is stable without degradation or oxidation.
  • Instant absorption and penetration into the deeper layers of the skin.
  • Leaving no residue

MY VERDICT

This night time formula is thick and creamy - just my type of night cream!!! It works so well with the Vitamin C, my skin looks hydrated and plump in the morning. It gives me a natural glow. There is one downfall to this product and it's the scent.... I think it's the vitamin A. If you have used Vitamin A serums/creams etc previously, you will know what I am talking about! While it does become more tolerable over time and fortunately does not linger on your skin for too long.




NEUROPEPTIDE FIRMING EYE THERAPY 15mg
  • Nourishing eye cream that decreases the appearance of puffiness around the eye area
  • Helps to improve skin elasticity, appearance of dark circles  and contains Vitamin E

MY VERDICT

This is definitely a high performing eye cream. Following the first couple of uses, I felt immediate firming effects which toned down after a week's of usage. My under eye area appeared more hydrated and I look refreshed. However, this was unable to rid my puffy bags. I personally feel this product is more effectively towards controlling fine lines and the prevention of fine lines - a little goes a long way. I prefer using this product at night and a gel eye cream in the morning - it's not a heavy eye cream but I just personally prefer a gel-like eye cream in the morning, having said this, the formula would suit both day and night and sits well under makeup.

HIGH POTENCY 30% VITAMIN C SERUM 15ml
  • A highly stable form of Vitamin C
  • Works as a powerful antioxidant and is a potent oil soluble form of Vitamin C
  • Helps prevent cellular ageing by inhibiting the cross inking of collagen, oxidation of proteins and lipid peroxidation
  • Unlike regular Vitamin C this will not exfoliate or irritate the skin and is well tolerated by even the most sensitive skin types.
  • It can be used in high doses and lasts for up to 18 months without oxidising

MY VERDICT


Whilst I have heard a lot about Vitamin C, I don’t believe I have used a Vitamin C serum previously. This product is highly potent with a liquid texture. I have been using my Vitamin C in the evening after cleansing and toning. This product is designed for sensitive skin, however after using this for a few days on a consecutive basis I experienced some peeling to the left side of my face (I am unsure whether it's the Vitamin C or the night cream with Vitamin A as I have previously experienced similar peeling using Vitamin A). That’s when I decided to give my skin a break from the serum and used it every 2-3 days whilst using the night cream every alternate day followed by a gradual build up of use, which seem to build up my tolerance.
I have to say, my skin looked great in the morning when I used the Vitamin C and night cream together. My pore just keep getting smaller... not kidding!



PHYTO FRUIT AHA MICRO PEELS - $90

  • An effective at home peel available in 3 strengths/skin-types
  • Level 1 for Fair skin with low strength of fruit acids; Level 2 for olive skin and moderate strength of fruit acids; Level 3 for dark skin and contains relatively high strength of fruit acids.
  • Utilises face pads soaked in fruit acids to gently exfoliate the outer layer of the skin
  • Noticeable decrease in appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • To be used once a week after cleansing, apply pad all over the face for up to 10mins avoiding eye and lip area. Rinse thoroughly.

MY VERDICT

This micro peel is hands down my favourite product from the L'unico range I have tried thus far. The peels come in individual pads to be used all over your face. I find that a single pad is more than enough for my face, I can also wipe down my neck and upper back – that’s where I get a lot of congestion!
I was expecting his product to really sting my face, however despite the increased weather related skin sensitivity the sting I experienced was very minimal, there were a couple of small chapped spots on my chin where I experienced a slight sting. Following the peel my face looked and felt radiant and clean. I no longer had to spend 10 minutes in the shower trying to scrub my dead skin off. It was squeaky clean in a couple of minutes. As mentioned in my previous posts, I have been told by skin care consultants that my skin works better with liquid exfoliates.



L'UNICO INTENSIVE HYDRATING MASK 250g - $150

  • Delivers rich nutrients and antioxidant protection
  • Helps to achieve a radiant glow and instant moisturising/hydrating effect
  • Helps reduce the appearance of surface imperfections such as fine lines, enlarged pores and discolouration while improving elasticity.

    MY VERDICT

    This intensive hydrating mask is beautiful, it looks like a mud mask but it does not dry out your skin.  I have been using this mask on a weekly basis to restore my skin, I leave the mask on until the product is set and wash my face under lukewarm water. While my skin does look and feel re-charged, I always require additional hydrating agents/serums/creams etc as my skin is so dehydrated and dry at the moment. I did notice my pores to tighten following each use, but they do expand a little in a couple of days (maybe because they get dirty?!) the pores are also visibly cleaner after using the mask. However I haven't experience any decrease in discolouration yet.



    OVERALL
    This is a very luxury skincare brand. I am mindful of the price and it's not cheap! If you want to indulge and try just one product from the range I have reviewed... my recommendation is the peel!!! Whilst I liked all the products, some stood out, some didn't, some worked some required more time, I do think L'unico products are of high quality.  HOWEVER, if I had a set amount of disposable income to treat my skin, I would highly recommend for you to go in for a personalised consultation where the products are made specifically for you and to treat your skin concerns. It's not every day you come across a customisation focused brand like L'unico.
    Products featured in this post were provided for editorial purposes

    Sunday, July 23, 2017

    Optically Glasses Online - Jorgio Tortoiseshell Glasses (JO8818 C02)

    Earlier this year I experienced daily headaches and eye strains from work-related computer use. I was recommended to purchase low prescription glasses.

    Glasses never appealed to me until I went glasses shopping, I finally discovered this phenomenal fashion statement.

    I recently had the opportunity to collaborate with Optically, an Australian online platform providing both quality designer glasses and prescription sunnies.




    I spent hours browsing Optically as there were such an amazing range of glasses online! There were so many styles, frames and brands to chose from (I recommend a good after dinner browse with a cup of tea), from metal frames to no frames. However, I could not go past Jorgio's... tortoiseshell frames with gold arms and nose pad. I absolutely adore these glasses, the glasses came in an unlabeled case with a lens cloth.

    Service was good as my order arrived within a 4 days after the order was placed, the package was sent via registered post and left with a local depot for collection rather being left at the door.

    The range is impressive, each pair includes prescription lenses and coating. I purchased my first pair of glasses from a store and it costed cost to $300 for lenses and coating. So Optically is delivering an absolute bargain. They also offer free home trials - just in case you want to see what the frame looks like on your face.




    Do you wear glasses?

    *Glasses provided for editorial purposes.

    Sunday, July 16, 2017

    REVIEW: Aromatherapy Associates Support Breathe Essence



    If you follow me on Instagram, you may know that from October 2016 - May 2017 my immune system was at it's all time low. I went from cold and flu free for over 2 years to getting sick every second month.

    A part from my blood shot eyes, respiration is always an issue during the later part of my flu trend. It's worse when I need to be at work and unable to put my head over a bucket of hot water to help with my breathing. Luckily, I was sent Aromatherapy Associates Support Breathe Essence in the form of a roller ball some time ago, read further to find out what I thought about it.



    ABOUT AROMATHERAPY SUPPORT BREATHE

    Experience the powers of the Aromatherapy Associates Support Breathe Roller Ball; an intense pulse point therapy expertly designed to soothe, rebalance and revitalise.
    Infused with a natural blend of Pine, Tea Tree, Peppermint and Eucalyptus Oils, the refreshing formula is perfect for combating the effects of colds and flu; helping to maintain easy breathing and clearing your head, nose and chest, whilst stimulating the senses.
    Free from parabens, synthetic colours and fragrances, SLS and petrolatum.
    Product not tested on animals.

    MY VERDICT

    I recently had a cold with a blocked nose for what seemed like a weeks, having a cold or a flu is miserable... your taste buds go into hibernate, nights are long and sleepless and not to mention the inability to inhale and exhale with ease that we so take for granted! However, this particular cold was partially exciting cos I waited for the longest time to trial the Aromatherapy Support Breathe as I am don't tend to have breathing issues if I am no tormented by a cold or flu. To be honest, I have never tried anything like this before and wasn't sure what to expect.

    I had been applying the products to my temples and on my cupids bow, I am not sure if that is the correct method of use but found those applications to be quite effective. Although the aromatherapy did not rid my blocked nose I did feel more relaxed and found air to flow through a little better and easier. Re-application is required and I would recommend this on an hourly basis. I kept the product in my bag when I went to work. The roller ball application is handy and dispenses just the right amount of product.

    I personally feel that this product is great for colds and flus but also good for anxiety and stressful situations. 


    This product was provided for editorial purpose.

    Sunday, July 9, 2017

    EVENT: Ultraceuticals Ultra Dual Microfoliant Launch @ 12-Micron, Barangaroo


    If you have read my Ultraceuticals post where I trialled their products for 90 days, you will know that Ultraceuticals' products are effective and high performing. This is a brand I am proud to be associated with simply because I know it works.

    Ultraceuticals recently launched their new product - Ultra Dual Microfoliant - at 12-Micron!


    ABOUT ULTRACEUTICALS DUAL MICROFOLIANT
    • A dual-action exfoliator with biodegradable micro-fine pure Vitamin  C and powerful enzyme Bromelain.
    • Multi-tasking formula designed to remove surface residue and impurities while imparting pure Vitamin C for maximum benefits.
    • Leaving skin looking refined, smooth, polished and luminous in appearance.
    • Assists in improving clarity, luminosity and radiance.
    • Removes dead cells and surface pigments.
    • Recommended for Normal, Dry and Oily Skin
    PRICE: $79 AUD available from David Jones

    USAGE

    Apply product to clean and dry face on alternate nights 2-3 times per week.
    Massage into face in an upward, circular motion for a few minutes until the Vitamin C particles have dissolved. Wash off the residue or remove with damp cloth.

    INGREDIENT SPOTLIGHT

    Bromelain - A powerful enzyme obtained from the stem of pineapple plant that is highly effective in exfoliating and removing surface residue.

    Absorbic Acid (Vitamin C) - An effective antioxidant to bring brighter and luminous refined skin.



    We were given the opportunity to test and play with the microfoliant at the event and I must say, the back of my skin felt clean and refined after the gentle exfoliation. We were shown photos of long term use and benefit on a participant using nothing but the Microfoliant for a period of time and her skin looked so radiant!

    There are several things I love about this product, I love the fact that the granules are biodegradable and dissolves, its such an important environmental factor. I also love the pineapple plant extract and the fact that Ultraceuticals sourced actual pineapple plants to be present at the event. That effort! The only thing I need to do is to test the product long term.


    Signing off the post with a sneaky yet delicious food photo!

    If you haven't given Ultraceuticals a go, you need to. Just have a look at the difference it had made for my skin in the post below, the result speaks for itself!


    Lily not Louise attended this event as a guest of Ultraceuticals

    Friday, July 7, 2017

    FIRST IMPRESSION: Hola Seaweed Skincare Collection


    It's been 9 months since my last holiday, we went cruising with Royal Caribbean. I keep re-visiting the photos from Vanuatu and New Caledonia because the water was blue and crystal clear. Hola became the perfect skincare range to use during my nostalgic week!

    Hola is an Australian made and owned skincare line that uses seaweed extract, I have used and heard of products with many different extracts but seaweed is a first! So I was quite excited to try this range.

    I tried this skincare range day and night for a week, keep reading to find out what I thought about the products!



    HOLA SEAWEED MOISTURISING EYE GEL - $22

    This eye gel contains seaweed extract designed to moisturise and smooth dry skin around the eye area, it can also be used as an eye mask and recommended to be stored in the refrigerator overnight.

    I found this eye gel to be best used in the morning and straight out of the fridge. I experience some intense puffiness in the morning, I always look tired despite the amount of sleep I receive. The only time I look awake is when I am on holidays. This gel helps to de-puff with a cooling effect, however it will not rid the puffiness entirely. I would recommend using this eye gel on it's own than mixed with concealer.


    HOLA SEAWEED MOISTURISING CLEANSING GEL - $22

    Enriched with seaweed extract and developed with special facial "bubbles" to effectively dissolve impurities and excess skin oil.

    I have been using this cleanser as a second cleanse, it does not lather when using my Foreo cleansing device, however it lathers up really nicely when I use my hands. The gel was quite runny when I first started using it, however the gel became thicker, which is something I am not used to. I personally like to dot cleansers on my face and found it difficult for this gel cleanser to stick to my face. I need to rub the product in a little otherwise it may fall off. That is the only aspect I dislike about the product, however it does not prevent me from using this cleanser because I like the bubbling too much! The product is scented, a sweet scent?



    HOLA SEAWEED MOISTURISING TONER - $25

    A refreshing and purifying toner that relaxes the skin with it's calming scent of the ocean. Developed with nourishing seaweed extract to hydrate, refresh and sooth whilst balancing the PH level.

    The consistency of this toner is slightly thicker than usual toners, I like to pour some on my hand, rub my palm together and press the toner onto my face. I dislike using cotton pads as I feel that it absorbs most of the product.

    I have been using this product during both day and night time. It left my skin feeling hydrated and re-freshed. The only thing I did not like about this product is the bottle, whilst the design is super cute, the content does not pour out with ease, I need to shake the bottle quite intensively to get the product to come out.



    HOLA SEAWEED MOISTURISING LOTION - $29

    A light hydrating lotion, enriched with seaweed extract to help moisturise and restore your skin.

    This lotion is indeed very light-weight, absorbs well and quicky. I have been using this for both evening and day time, I prefer this for day time cos it's so light! This lotion does not leave behind any greasy feeling and it sits well under makeup. I personally feel that I need a little bit more for winter, however if I were to layer this with serum, it works well.

    Similar to the toner, the only thing I disliked is the bottle, it takes effort to dispense the lotion! I wish both the toner and lotion came in pump bottles or squeezable tubes.


    Products featured in this post were provided for editorial purpose

    Sunday, July 2, 2017

    Bellabox Limited Edition Nourished Life Box


    Guess what guys, Bellabox have teamed up with Nourished Life to create a Limited Edition Nourished Life Box!!!! This box costs $79.95 however contains products valued up to $250!

    I discovered Nourished Life a few months ago and became addicted to reading the articles, it's the home of toxin free shopping and resources.

    I have purchased and being sent many subscription boxes, but this is by far, the best box! Keep reading and you will see why.


    I was SO happy to see Inika Organic Baked Illuminisor and Vegan Fan Brush in this box!!! I absolutely LOVE Inika, it's a beautiful natural brand. These two products are both full size, the baked illuminisor is $65 and the brush is $39... already exceeding the cost of this box. I have never owned a fan brush, so this is my first ever fan brush. I am so happy :) :):)


    Ethique Sampler, how generous is this sampler! These are solid beauty bars, containing 5 samples for normal to dry skin, including shampoo, conditioner, cleanser and body wash bar. This is very exciting as I have never tried a shampoo and conditioner bar. This set is valued at $20.



    Moving forth we have Life Basics Activated Charcoal Body Soap with Lemongrass, this is a full size product valued at $9.95. I have tried may charcoal infused facial products, this will be my first body product!

    RosehipPlus Organic Daily Cream Cleanser is one of my all time favourites, I have finished many tubes and glad to have this back in my collection! It is gentle and suitable for all skin types. This is also a full size product valued at $16.95.


    This box is full of full sized goodies!!!

    I already have 2 tubes of Papaya Ointment in my collection, one at work and one at home, now I can keep one in my bag too, it is a multi-purpose wonder! A full size product valued at $9.95.

    100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Lip Gloss is also a full size product valued at $24.95. I ripped the packaging open and used this gloss as soon as I saw it! The gloss is sheer with small amounts of pigment and natural shine, it did not dry out my lips! Ahh the power of natural products.

    Salt and Glow Be Still Lip Balm, I don't know why but the name Salt and Glow just roped me in...this balm will help to rejuvenate your lips and repair them in your sleep. I don't often wear balms before bed but I will try this during the day! This is a full size product valued at $5.80.



    Now onto some adorable samplers... we have Egyptian Magic All Purpose Skin Cream - I have used this so many times, it reminds me of Vaseline but doesn't break my skin out. perfect for winter!

    Happy Skincare Good Vibes Omega Facial Oil uses 87% certified organic ingredients that will deeply hydrate and nourish your skin. I finished my facial oil so I will be using this!

    Mukti Organics Vital C Elixir helps to fight against ageing and prevent photo-ageing, free radicals and environmental pollutions.

    Black Chicken Remedies Axilla Deodorant Paste, I have seen and received many emails regarding deodorant pastes but it was never something that appealed to me.... but now that I actually have a sample pot, I will give it a try.



    Last but not least, Zen Green Tea Matcha Powder sampler, what a beautiful way to finish off this box!!!! I had a cuppa whilst writing this post, an excellent source of antioxidant! I love and adore matcha and green tea... well anything tea related. love love love!

    Overall, I feel like this is a bit of a super box.. I am really pleased with this box, even though there are a product or two I wouldn't normally use but I am happy to give them all a go!

    You will be able to purchase this limited edition box from Bellabox on 6th of July via www.bellabox.com.au/shop

    If you are interested in this box, sign up to www.nourishedlife.com.au/club to receive 15% OFF your first order! :)


    *This box was provided for editorial purpose.

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