LAZY GIRL'S TWO STEP AUTUMN SKINCARE

Autumn is the perfect weather for being lazy and a natural glow. Winter is often too close and my skin gets too dry to enable a natural glow, whereas summer is too hot causing my pores to ooze out oil and shine. Everything ends up looking sweaty. This in between weather is perfect. I have been super lazy, especially on late nights, so I often opt for this two step routine.

STEP 1  - SCOUT DAILY REVITALISE CLEANSING CREME

I don't tend to wear a lot of make up during the weekend. If I do it's quite minimal. However the first thing I do when I get up on a Saturday or Sunday is cleanse my face. I have been using Scout Cosmetics Daily Revitalise Cleansing Crème. I have not been a big fan of cleansing cream until I started using it with a cleansing device. Now I love it. I dispense 3 pumps of this cleansing cream onto my dampened cleansing device and gently cleanse/massage my face to rid overnight skincare and gunk. This cleanser is very gentle with subtle scents. 

STEP 2 - SCOUT SIX OILS OF REJUVINATION

Following a good cleanse, I normally put on some eye cream and seal the deal with an oil if I am not heading out. I have been using Scout Six Oils of Rejuvenation in the morning (Avocado, Carrot Seed, Sunflower, Evening Primrose, Sweet Almond, Rosehip and Jojoba Seed oils). My skin can be quite dry and dehydrated so this is perfect. At night, I drop about 5 droplets of oil on my palm to apply to my entire face and neck, I go easy in the morning with 3-4 drops. I like to dry the oil between my palms and press the product into my skin. It gives me a really beautiful natural glow and does wonders for my skin. Look how good it's been below! And the scent can takes a bit of getting use to, but I think it's very relaxing and herbal. Similar to what my yoga instructor spritz in the air at the end of class! 

Bare skin with Scout's oil only!

PR Sample featured

FOREO LUNA MINI 2 VS FOREO PLAY PLUS

My life changed when I discovered Foreo.

Prior to Foreo, I used my hands and various brushes that would eventually go mouldy to clean my face. My pores were always clogged and I could not achieve that deep cleanse.
When Foreo first came into my life, I didn't think I would continue to use it simply because I'm a creature of habit and I am lazy. Little did I know, I have now been using my Foreo every single day for almost a year.

As a beauty blogger, it is difficult to use the same product on a daily basis for a prolonged period of time because there are so many different products to try. But after using Foreo for 340 days I think it's safe for me to formally recommend it.

There are many versions of Foreo cleansing devices, so today I want to talk about the difference between Foreo's Luna Mini 2 and Foreo Play Plus. I consider these two as the most popular selections from their cleansing range.

FOREO PLAY PLUS

• T-Sonic Pulsations are diffused through soft silicone touch points to remove 99.5% of impurities
• 2 zone face brush - the small brushes are designed for more sensitive areas and the bigger brushes are designed for a deeper cleanse such as your T-Zone
• Battery Operated, replaceable AAA battery that can last approximately 400 uses. This is great because the Luna Play is not chargable. You may need a small screw driver handy to replace the battery though.
• Available in 7 vibrant colours
• 64 x 60mm - A travel friendly size, I would take my Play Plus on vacations and would probably leave my Mini 2 at home. 
• Price point is at $75AUD 

Website: https://www.foreo.com/luna-play-plus

FOREO LUNA MINI 2

• T-Sonic Pulsations as per Luna Play Plus
• 8 Adjustable intensities by pressing the +/- buttons, you can bring  the sonic vibration to a real slow mode or a more intense and rapid mode. 
• 3 zone face brush. You will notice that the brush at the tip of the device is larger than the rest of the surface area. The back of the foreo (where the charger plugs in) is different again and much larger for thicker  touch points and a deeper cleanse. I personally like to use the brushes attached to the front of the device for most of my face.
• Easy to Charge via a USB cable
• Available in 6 shades
• Price point is at $219, it is an investment, but I personally think it's worth it

Website: https://www.foreo.com/luna-mini-2

KEY POINTS OF DIFFERENCE

• BIG VS SMALL - Think about whether you will be using this predominantly at home or whilst traveling. If you travel a lot, are you willing to take a slightly bigger Foreo with it's cable with you? Also consider that if you are planning to use Foreo Play Plus at home, it may take a little longer to clean your face because it is much smaller. However, it is extremely travel friendly. 
• ADJUSTABLE INTENSITIES - Is this important to you? Do you wish to adjust the pace of the pulsation? I personally put mine on rapid and rarely ever use the slower pace. 
• 2 ZONES VS 3 ZONES - There is a large surface area on the back of Foreo Luna Mini for that DEEP cleanse, whereas the Play Plus posses a few row of bigger brushes. Is this important for you? For me, I actually rarely use the bigger brushes, I mostly find it awkward to use the bigger brushes on the back of the Mini 2 on my forehead due to the curvature of the device. 
• BATTERY VS USB CHARGER - Personally, this one alone would affect what I chose to purchase. I am for a device that can be charged by USB all the way, I am exceptionally lazy when it comes to battery operated products, more than often, once the battery dies I would stop using it. 
• PRICE POINTS - $219 is quite steep, it is an investment. $75 is more affordable. However consider the points above.

Products featured were provided for editorial purpose

THE BEST MASK TO CALM POST-TREATMENT IRRITATIONS

It find it difficult to review facial masks because I find most masks to do the same thing as its counterparts, just labelled differently. Today, I wanted to specifically talk about Medik8's Ultimate Recovery Bio-Cellulose Zinc Mask because this mask had proven it's worth and I want to tell you why!

Before we get started, let's look at the claims.

ABOUT

- Soothing and nourishing enriched mask for post-treatment use. 

- Instantly cooling and soothing designed to calm redness and speed up the healing process

- A method to restore and relief the skin without overloading your skin.

- Enriched with hyaluronic acid and zinc

- No synthetic fragrance, no alcohol and minimal preservatives

PRICE: $89 for a packet of 6 (find Stockists here)

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS:

• Zinc: mineral healing and antibacterial properties. Helps to regulate oil and enzyme balance.
• Hyaluronic Acid: highly effective humectant to absorb and retain moisture in the skin. Helps to re-establish the skin’s natural hydro-lipid balance.
• Bio-Cellulose: tightly woven natural fibers which easily sit in fine lines and wrinkles to allow for optimum adhesion and delivery of actives. Forms protective barrier to lock in moisture and nutrients.
• Norwegian Kelp / Rockweed Algae: a species of brown algae with a high mineral content, moisturisation benefits and antioxidant activity.

MY VERDICT

- A couple of weeks ago, I decided to put an organic mud mask on my partner to help clean out his pores. This particular mud mask works wonders for me and had never caused any irritations to my skin. After about 3-4 minutes post application, he told me his face was stinging, I told him it may feel slightly tingling but it should be normal. 6-7 minutes in he said he needs to wash it off because it was burning! After he washed off the mud mask his face was a shade of ripped burning beets.  I fussed about and pulled out Medik8's Ultimate Recovery Bio-Cellulose Zinc Mask, this mask provided him with an instant relief. Within 10 minutes his face was no longer burning and the redness, diminished. I felt that this was the ultimate test, this mask had proved it's worth!

- Fit wise, it was fine for me but it wasn't a perfect fit for my partner. It was a little bit short on the nose for him.. But because the actual mask (which is really thin and gel sheet-like) is sandwiched between two rougher sheets, application is quite easy once you separate the masks between the sheets. The mask won't be falling off your face because it tends to stick on your skin. 

- There will be plenty of left over serum inside the package. Don't let them go to waste! I applied it all over my arms, thighs, décolletage, chest and the other excess on my stomach. 

- My skin doesn't get quite as inflamed as my partner, but it's had a weird rough patch after I had a pretty heavy duty facial treatment. The skin of my cheek and chin felt exceptionally rough. After I used this mask, my skin was restored and returned to his normal condition in 2 days. I kid you not!!!

Products featured were provided for editorial purpose

CREATE YOUR SIGNATURE AUTUMN LOOK WITH 4 PRODUCTS

Autumn is my favourite time of the year and orange is my favourite colour alongside mauves.  

It's a time where I get to wear my favourite hues, yet the weather is still warm enough for a t-shirt. I do like to adapt my makeup look based on seasons (or emotions). During summer, my sole purpose was to obtain that perfect bronzed glow. Autumn is deeper and more meaningful - to me. So I've created a really easy look using some beautiful Autumn picks from Eles Cosmetics. 

STEP 1 - FOUNDATION

Post-Easter, my skin turned into an absolute mess. A blemish here and a pimple there, it's the inevitable outcome of impulsivity.. a lack of self control when I am surrounded by one too many chocolate eggs and bunnies. This is why I need a good foundation.  Here, I am using Eles Cosmetics HD Luminous Foundation in the shade "BUFF". I have selected this foundation to blend in with my summer tan. I found the foundation easy to blend with a medium to high coverage and a dewy finish. This foundation did a great job for my under eyes so I did not need to conceal.

STEP 2 and 3 -

EYESHADOW AND CHEEKS

For eyes and cheeks, I used this stunning Eles Cosmetics Autumn Collection Palette, this beautiful palette encompass all the wonderful autumnal colours. I applied the berry mauve shade all over the lids and under my lower lash line followed by a pop of gold to the centre of the lid.

For cheeks, the subtle powder bronzer was applied to my cheeks and the areas of my face where I would want a bit of a sun kissed glow (sides of forehead, nose etc), followed by the beautiful peachy berry shade to the apples of my cheeks.



STEP 4 - MASCARA

I don't use a lot of mascara these days, but I feel that mascara is almost an essential for Autumn makeup, otherwise the eyes can look a tiny bit bare! I used Eles Cosmetics Lush Mascara to define and separate my lashes without clumping. While it's not a mascara for dramatic looks, it's perfect for a more natural look and great for everyday use.

STEP 5 - LIPSTICK

Nude lips is something I have never been daring enough to really wear. You'd be surprise to know the amount of nude lipsticks I leave untouched and stashed. When I saw Eles Cosmetics Matte Lipstick in Bare I thought I'd give it a go. I think it creates a nice contrast with a dark eye look. If you are not confident in wearing nudes, I found it to be best mixed with a petal rose colour. However in the photo below, I am wearing Bare alone.

Products featured were provided for editorial purpose

THE FOUNDATION THAT IS WORTH THE HYPE AND HERE IS WHY (BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS)

Ladies, I have been on a journey to good skin this year. Instead of caking on layers of foundation to create the "good skin effect" I have decided to take care of my skin by using good skincare and of course, high quality foundations. Previously, I would dispense two pumps of foundation to cover my entire face, these days, I would use a quarter of a pea size for my entire face. Whilst a quarter of a pea size of a rather average foundation wouldn't do a whole lot for my skin. However, if it is a quality, high performing foundation, it makes a significant difference. 

I was swept off my feet after using Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear (rrp $57AUD), my verdict is synonymous with the thousands of men and women who have tried and reviewed Teint Idole on Lancôme's website. This velvet matte foundation delivers and it delivers well. 

Blended

Let's have a look at the claims before we go into anything else... 

• 24 hr staying power
• Full coverage without discomfort, streaks or caking
• Re-touch free, shine free and transfer proof
• Velvet Matte finish 
• Available in 40 shades

Now let's talk through my verdict...

• I have been testing shade 01, it's a light olive colour that is comparable to NC25. 
• I would never wear any makeup for 24 hours so I was unable to do the 24hr test, but I did the 12 hour test and the foundation stayed put with a small amount of slip on my nose at the 10hr mark, although I rub my nose frequently and I often forget I have makeup on. Nonetheless, my skin would still look flawless. 
• The consistency of the foundation is creamy but not too thick nor too runny. I use Glam by Manicare's foundation brush (a fantastic brush by the way) and it blends seamlessly.
• This foundation is indeed full coverage (buildable) and covers redness like a dream, but most importantly, it's unbelievably lightweight. As claimed, I didn't notice any discomfort, streaks or caking. Once applied, I didn't really look like I had foundation on my face. Just look at the before and after photos below, I promise you, that's a quarter of a pea size.
• The finish is absolutely beautiful - velvet matte! I have dehydrated/combination skin and this foundation sits on my skin beautifully without enhancing any dry patches at any given time.
• There is a slight scent to the foundation and it's pleasant!
• This is just an overall long lasting, beautiful finish, natural looking, light weight foundation.... all in one bottle. 

Before and After Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Foundation

After 10 hours of wear

Products featured were provided for editorial purpose

HOT OR NOT: MIRENESSE THERMAL WRAP N REPAIR HAIR TREATMENT

Hair is not my strong point, the most I would usually do is shampoo... maybe condition, if I can be bothered. My mum gave me a thick head of shiny black hair and I often feel that there was no need to do anything else than to wash it. I was recently sent a set of Mirenesse Thermal Wrap n Repair Hair Treatment. I am not usually too enthusiastic when it comes to hair products, bit this product had me curious.

After speaking to a blogger friend who had used this type of hair treatment previously and found it to be good, I decided to give it a go.

Before my verdict... let's look at the claims:

• Smooths and softens with organic manuka honey
• Lotus flower infusion for glossy locks
• Strengthens with organic coconut oil 
• Anagain hair growth molecule fights hair loss
• Detangles with organic Argan Oil
• Hydrolysed silk and ceramides condition and Repair

PRICE: $29 for a 3 piece set

MY VERDICT

• Application: I unwrapped the crap, tried to put as much hair as I could onto the top of my head to put the cap on then proceeded to tuck any stray hairs into the cap. My hair is short so it was not difficult. However, I can see how this may be a difficult task for someone with long and stubborn hair. 
• The Process: Once the cap was on, I massaged as per instructions and left the cap on for 20 minutes. 
• Cap off: I took the cap off and jumped back into the shower to give my hair a good rinse. My hair smelt great and felt realllllllly soft. 
• The following day: My hair was literally glowing with shine. My hair is usually pretty shiny but I personally haven't seen it this shiny. It still smelt fantastic. I still noticed a few fly aways but my hair was so soft and smooth. 
• 2 days later: Hair still looked, smelt and felt as good as it did on the following day. My hair felt really clean, I usually wash my hair every second day but because it felt so clean I didn't wash it until the FOURTH day. I don't if that's what the mask is suppose to do or if it's just my hair! 
• Would I use it again? Yes, definitely. My only qualm is that I have to jump out of the shower after I shampoo my hair to put the cap back on. I probably would use it for an event - a wedding (I think I'll have quite a few of those coming up) or a special event where I want my hair to be beautifully blinding. I can't see it as something I would use on a weekly basis because I am lazy! But I was amazed with the results and surprised by how much I liked it. If you spend a lot of time on your hair, you can probably replace one of your treatments with Mirenesse's thermal hair mask. I've used a few different products before but this one seemed to have given the most "WOW' result thus far.

Featured product provided for editorial purpose

THE EXFOLIANT THAT WON'T DRY OUT OUR FACE!

I have been a long time fan of Genie Beauty, the range was first introduced to us by founder Lisa Claycomb, her passion triggered my curiosity bell and I have been using Genie Beauty ever since because their quality is up to scratch.

I tend to stay away from physical exfoliates and scrubs for my face (with a few exceptions) due to my enlarged pores, but because it's Genie, I wanted to test it out. So, today I want to talk to you about one of Lisa's latest creations, a triple action exfoliate!


This exfoliant employs a Dual Sensory Performance; Warming sensation upon application enhances the exfoliating action and cooling when rinsed refreshes and rejuvenates.

KEY INGREDIENTS

Japanese Pearl Powder: This powder can be used for multiple uses, i.e., improve skin texture, reduce pore size, control oil and spot reduction.

Bromelain: Is an enzyme extract derived from the stems of pineapples. This enzyme is know for reducing inflammation. Bromelain will help lift away dead skin cells to create a luminous surface in this exfoliant.

Revitalising Peptide Complex: Signals collagen for a brighter, younger looking skin.

MY VERDICT:

- The exfoliant contains small scrubbing grit within a thick gel like formula, the grit is fine but not super refined so you can still get good gentle scrub out of it.

- Ensure your face is damp otherwise the exfoliate won't stick to your face. The Dual Sensory Performance is outstanding, as indicated, there was warming effect between my fingers and my face when massaging the product followed by a cooling sensation once the product was rinsed off.

- I rinsed my face off at the sink and found the exfoliant to take a bit of time to rinse off, for this reason (and because I am lazy) I think I would exfoliate then jump into the shower for a rinse moving forward.

- My face felt ridiculously moisturising after rinsing the exfoliant off, my skin would usually feel dry and uncomfortable after using a scrub or an exfoliate, however with Genie's Exfoliate 3 my face felt hydrated, allowing time for me to make a cup of tea before putting skincare it.

- My skin felt silky smooth and my pores appeared to be clean following use. I am really happy with this product and will continue to use it once per week.

PR sample featured

EVENT: Nutrimetics 50th Anniversary @ The Star

Nutrimetics is the first direct sales beauty brand to emerge in Australia, they have come such a long way. I recently celebrated their 50th anniversary at the Star among the launch of a new product!

Remember back in the days where women's sole role was to stay at home, pop out babies, cook and clean? Nutrimetics have a special place in my heart because it provided an opportunity for women in the work house and reverse the gender roles.

In addition, can we take a moment to admire the Nutrimetics 50th Anniversary cake!? It's their Nutri-Rich oil with Apricot Kernel a star, I use it on my heel and swear by it. 

Ultra care + Microdermabrasion kit is the spanking new release. 85% of women reported visibly smoother skin in an instant. It instantly transformed the skin's appearance, this is an innovative two-step skin renewal system that gently polishes away the visible signs of ageing, leaving your complexion glowing with renewed radiance. (Results from consultant testing over 28 days). I can't wait to try this! 

We were also graced by Imelda Roche and her hubby Bill's presence. They were so cute and made me love the brand even more.

If you enjoyed this post, check out Ingrid's post on 50 Uses for Nutrimetics Nutri Rich Oil!

Lily not Louise attended as a guest of Nutrimetics

HOT OR NOT: L'Oreal Infallible Pro-Glow Foundation 203 Nude Beige

ABOUT PRO GLOW FOUNDATION

- 24hr all day glow foundation
- Enriched with Vitamin E
- Lightweight formula
- Dewy/glow finish for normal to dry skin
- Medium coverage
- SPF15
- Available in 6 shades

Price: $27.95 AUD

Swatch - unfiltered and unedited

MY VERDICT


Shades: While I was able to find my summer, winter and in between shades within the available shade range for this foundation, it will prove to be a challenge for others. If you have very fair or darker skin tone.

Texture: As advertised, this foundation is lightweight upon application and easy to blend with your brush or fingers. The consistency of the foundation is very runny.


Finish: The finish is indeed glowy, don't worry you won't find any shimmer particles. It looks like your skin but with a really healthy holiday glow.

Coverage: Medium coverage as claimed, it did not minimise my pores but it did make my skin appear more seamless and covered most of my freckles. However, don't use this on raised pimples, it will slip off.

Dry Skin: This is where I encountered my issue. Everything was going so well with this foundation, my skin looked great. Whilst it didn't dry out my skin, it did however cling onto my dry spots (mainly on and around my nose). For example, the area around my pimple is usually dry and this foundation will accentuate those dry parts. I used it on good skin days where my face is completed clear and very well nourished/hydrated with serum and lotion, the aftermath was much more pleasant. The foundation sat on my skin really nicely.

Wear Time: I wore this for the full 8-9 hours at work and the foundation mainly stayed put with a bit of congestion going on between my brows. Otherwise happy with the wear.

Left: Bare face; Right: With Loreal Infallible Pro Glow Foundation [photos unedited and unfiltered]

Product provided for editorial purpose