I've increased my skincare focus this year and I would usually have a pretty intensive skincare routine.... cos you know, with age and stuff..
But half the time I am so exhausted after work, cooking, cleaning, making lunch and catching up on social media that by the time I get to bed, it's already midnight. On those days, the last thing I possibly want to do is to spend 10-15mins putting on skincare.
I have since been condensing my skincare for lazy days.
STEP 1
Due to my troubled dry and dehydrated skin, the first thing I do after shower is to always spritz my face with toner water or mist, at the moment I am using Lush Tea Tree Water it does not leave a filmy residual and particularly good for bad skin days.
STEP 2
Whilst my skin is still damp from the mist, I would use a high performing facial oil, lately I am using USPA Age Defying Elixir with Sandalwood I took this to Brisbane with me and loved it so much that I have continued to use it. The Sandalwood scent is relaxing for bed time.
STEP 3
I can NEVER go to bed without using an eye cream, Natura Siberica Snow Cladonia Eye Cream does a good job at hydrating my under eye area and absorbs fairly quickly. The eye cream itself is actually green, but don't let that turn you off cos it's actually a really beautiful product.
The last and final step is something that I occasionally skip, but most of the time I'd finish off by lathering moisturiser all over my neck (and on my boyfriend's face). I am using Clinelle Hydracalm Cream.
Products featured were provided for editorial purpose
I was introduced to Sisely this year and it was literally love at first use. For about a year, I have seen Sisley products online and the curiosity since lingered. I do have a soft spot for luxury brands and if I were ever to exit the blogging world, Sisley would be one of the few brands I would continue to use. It is such an under-rated luxurious brand of the utmost quality that deserves more attention.
I have been trying a few pieces from Sisley for quite a while now I am finally confident to provide my verdict!
SISLEY BLACK ROSE CREAM MASK
Instant Youth: Smoothing, plumping, brightening
Restore the vitality and freshness of young skin
Floral cream formula is rich in trace elements, vitamins and anti-aging active ingredients to provide theskin with a beauty boost in 10-15mins.
Skin will appear luminous features will be refreshed and skin will feel moisturised and softened
Tissue off excess after 3 minutes
Apply moisturiser as per usual following this step
MY VERDICT
Packaging: The mask comes in a plastic squeezable tube bottle allowing product to be dispensed with ease.
Scent: A beautiful rose scent that is not over powering or pungent.
Texture: A creamy gel like formula that glides over my skin allowing the mask to be easily spread. A little goes a long way with this mask!
What Happened after 10 mins? If I am in a hurry, I'd leave this mask on for 5mins, otherwise I will leave it on for a good 10-15mins - and no, you will not experience any irritations or burns to the skin like I have with some of the other masks. My skin felt ridiculously plump and hydrated after use. When I filmed the video below, it was "that time of the month", I was going through my bad skin days and foundation just looked awful on my skin. This product did such an amazing job, it really hydrated my skin to the point where my pores actually looked smaller and foundation sat on my skin like a dream. I know I should be wearing moisturiser on top but on hot evenings, I feel that this mask is enough.
Final Words: Fiona from Star PR highly recommended this product to me, it's one of those products where you won't know how good it is until you've tried it. I highly recommend this mask.
SISLEY EYE CONTOUR MASK
Reduces fine lines and puffiness
Visibly reduces dark circles
Contains botanical ingredients such as Gingko, extract of Arnica, extract of Mallow and extract of Linden.
Gel formula that will leave a soft imperceptible film that will continue to work after the mask is removed.
MY VERDICT
Packaging: Similar to the mask, the eye contour sits in a plastic squeeze tube where product can be dispensed with ease.
Texture: A gel formula where once applied, it actually does feel like a gel mask. Super duper hydrating!
Did it work? It did, whilst it did not work like some of the under eye products I've seen on infomercial (where under eye lines, bags and dark circles are temporarily erased within 2-3mins) but it did assist in minimising the size of my under eye bags and made my under eye dark circles less noticeable. It won't make anything go away but it will awaken tired under eye areas. I took this product to Brisbane where I camped out and had literally no sleep - this eye contour was an absolute life saver.
Final Words: The bags, dark circles and puffiness under my eyes are my biggest concerns yet, and if you are like me, then this product is a worthy investment. Can you see how smooth and plump my under eyes look in my video?? Especially in the close up, it's insane!
SISLEY PHYTO BLANC INTENSIVE DARK SPOT CORRECTOR
A skin brightening treatment that provides comprehensive lightening and exfoliating
Contains Vitamin C and Rhubarb Extract to target the dark spots
MY VERDICT
Packaging: A very unique roller ball with pump action dispensing. I find that I often dispense a little too much and it's more than what I need for my spots.
Problem Areas: I actually have a bit of freckles on my nose and cheeks. Every time I rid some more will come back in a matter of weeks. I enjoy the sun and doesn't matter how much SPF I use, I continue to get freckles.
Texture: A cream-gel formula that is easily absorbed by the skin. I like to apply the content with the rollerball and tap the formula into my skin with my fingers.
Does it work? I noticed some very minor fading to the spots on my nose, but I am in the sun most days (I can't help that I love the sun!) and hence freckles keep coming back.
Final Words: To be honest, this is a product I am on the fence about. I say this every time, but it is impossible for me to love every product I try and there will almost always be a product in my reviewed lot that just wasn't suitable for me, and unfortunately this dark spot corrector is one of those. Nonetheless, what doesn't work out for me doesn't mean it won't work for others, I have actually given the dark spot corrector to my mum (she doesn't go out in the sun too much and have many spots to erase).
The Dream Palette. Top to Bottom: Pearl Beige, Silk Rose, Satin Copper and Velvet Brown
SISLEY PHYTO 4 OMBRES
Magnetised modern harlequin look
Each palette contains 4 stunning, silky and vibrant eye shadow combinations
Available in 2 palettes: The Dream Palette (luminous neutral) and The Mystery Palette (smokey tones)
MY VERDICT
Shade: The Dream Palette
Packaging: The palette comes in a square plastic container with a magnetised opening! It took some getting use to for me as I am so accustomed to click in palettes. Once I learned to always open this palette by gripping onto the sides it became much easier. To be honest, I didn't mind it, but mum preferred a clickable case. The palette comes with a dual ended sponge tip brush, a wider flatter side for base colours and a smaller tip for the darker shades.
Texture: This is a gel to powder formula which is why I don't really experience much fall out. The formula is pigmented, non-streaky and easy to blend/apply.
The Shades: The Dream Palette is a luminous palette, suitable for those who enjoys a little shimmer on the lids (ME!!!!). These however are not large sparkles or aggressive glitters, they are subtle shimmers that glimmers softly under the light. Even though the darkest shade contains shimmer, it can easily be used as a liner as the shimmer is not as noticeable. If you are a mattes only gal or guy, this may not be the most suitable palette for you. I should also note that the lightest shade Pearl Beige makes a beautiful highlighter.
Longevity: Wear time is approximately 6 hours before some noticeable fading. I think due to the formula this eyeshadow doesn't really crease like other shadows- something that I personally prefer.
Finger VS Brush: If I am in a rush, I would use my finger and it does a fine job, if I have time I would use the sponge tip provided. I would not recommend using a brush as I find that the brush is unable to pick up the same amount of product as I would with my fingers or sponge tip.
Final Comment: I personally love using this eyeshadow quad for everyday use as I personally prefer shadows with a slight shimmer over pure mattes, most of the time.
SISLEY PHYTO-BLUSH TWIST
An intense cream blush that provides the same intensity as powder blush
Provides an instant radiance boost
Contains Shea Oil, Camellia Oil and Vitamin E
Transforms into a delicate powder with a soft focus effect
Micronised pigments with gel formulation
Available in 3 shades: Petal (rosy hue), Fuschia (vibrant pink) and Papaya (featured in the photo above).
MY VERDICT
Shade: Papaya (coral)
Packaging: Comes in a plastic tube with beautiful zebra stripes, the tube is easy to twist allowing excellent twisting control. Although no click in mechanism (for the lid), the lid of the tube can be closed tightly.
Scent: A very subtle light and pleasant floral note
Texture: Extremely smooth and creamy, it will glide on the surface of your skin. Once applied, there is no urgency to blend the product like some of the other cream blushes I have used. This cream blush is ultra blendable and will not leave any streaks nor will it ruin your foundation. I promise you that it will provide the most beautiful peachy glow to my cheeks. When I don't have a lip colour, I often use this product on my lips, but because once it settles it's quite matte, I would use a lip balm over or under.
Fingers VS Brush: I highly recommend you to use this product straight from the tube and blend it with your fingers.
Longevity: It lasted for approximately 6-7 hours on me, this product doesn't wipe off your face like your conventional powder blushes would. I would often notice finger marks on my face (because I tend to palm the side of my face fairly frequently), I didn't really notice any finger marks after using Phyto Blush, rather I noted some fading but there is still a hint of coral.
How Much Product Do I Get? You will receive 5.5g or 0.19 ounces, this may be the only con to this beautiful blush - I wish it was never ending.
Final Comment: This is probably the best cream blush I have used so far. With a lot of the other cream blushes it was either a rush against time to ensure the product is blended before it dries or becomes streaky. When I first say this blush I instantly thought "No, it's too bright", if you watch my video below you will see that it blends beautifully. If you are looking for a high quality cream blush - check out Sisley's Phyto-Twist.
SISLEY - IZIA
A fragrance that speaks to all generations of women.
Inspired by the roses in the garden of Isabelle d'Ornano's house in French Loire Valley
Isabelle brought 5 women together to make this fragrance, Armandine Clerc Marie (The Perfumer), Quentin Jones (The Artist), Sonia (The Muse), Isabelle and Christine d'Ornano (Sisley).
Top Notes: White bergamot, hints of freesia and tea
Heart Note: Rose Accord enhanced with refreshing notes of pear, fresh petals of jasmine with peony and lily of the valley. Green angelica adds a powdery nuance.
Base Note: Rose accord highlighted by powdery musk, woody warmth of cedar and amber.
MY VERDICT
This fragrance is just gorgeous inside and out. I can't even begin to express how beautifully elegant the bottle is, it's a work of art on it's own and perfect for your dressing table. The fragrance itself is a refreshing rose scent - I know a lot of people think grandma products when they see rose scents, but Izia is in-between youthful and sophistication..... I can definitely see how this fragrance can be worn by men and women of all ages. I usually use 3 spritz, the nozzle will dispense nice fine sprays of perfume with a wide coverage. The beautiful scent will linger for the entire day.
A very soft smokey look. I swear my face and body are the same colour, it's the weird lighting!
VIDEO DEMO A very soft smoky look created with Sisley products (with the except of the foundation and foundation brush)
Products featured were provided for editorial purposes
Beauty Expo is an annual delight, this year was no exception, with 7651 visits over the weekend at International Convention Centre in Sydney and a 21% increase from 2016. The Expo encompass a range of skincare, makeup, nail, body and hair brands, over 40 curated classes and workshops.
I spend a quick 20 minutes whisking through the isles to take note of stalls I wanted to revisit - the venue was big and there were more stalls I can count. We then enjoyed a Blogger/Media brunch where we were briefed on the Beauty Expo.
After brunch we spent a good few hours looking through the stalls and sitting in on classes. We quickly realised the skincare showcased within the Beauty Expo were high salon quality brands, (i.e., Ultraceutical, USPA, Sassou, Murad and Madara) just to name a few.
If you are after for makeup, there's Young Blood, Inglot, Poni Cosmetics (a brand that I have previously tried and I rate their tubular mascara) and much more.
If you are a beautician or working in the beauty industry, Beauty Expo will be a wonderland for you with IPL, hair tools, nail equipment and spa equipment.
There were nail bars and brow bars where services are being completed. We sat through a fantastic Yougblood beauty class where we had the opportunity to learn tip and tricks from Youngblood's makeup artist and see Younblood products at work. Youngblood is a green mineral brand that I have always been quite interested in so it was great to see it in full effect.
Inglot Cosmetics
I had such a fantastic time at the Beauty Expo and walked home with bags of products thanks Beauty Expo and all their contributing brands. I can't wait to show you guys some of the products and will definitely let everyone know when it's a product from the Beauty Expo. Until next year!
Lily not Louise attended this event as a guest of Beauty Expo
When I first discovered Emma and Roe I spent hours browsing through the beautiful jewellery, did you know Emma and Roe is by Michael Hill? Emma and Roe have a beautiful charm collection, with over 680s matching bracelets and chains to chose from.
After hours of browsing I picked out the little gem photographed above, it's Emma and Roe's Tree of Life Mini Pendant in 10ct Rose Gold - I just could not pass it. I love intricacy and the fact that this little charm can go on any chain or bracelet, it's a small and dainty piece!
I had to pick a chain for my charm, and found the most exquisite and practical solution. Charm Lariat Necklace called my name and it was an easy pick. I love dainty and I love minimalistic pieces. This is a simple sterling silver chain with a miniature ball (note: the ball is attached to the chain so it will never fall off). I loved this piece, it's so simply but speaks volumes and the perfect chain to pair with my Tree of Life Pendant.
I wasn't quite sure how my little Tree of Life pendant would look on the chain, but when I put them together. I loved it. I realised that Rose Gold goes well with pretty much anything, the chain didn't need to be gold or rose gold. I have more or less been rocking this combo to every event lately!
It's a stunning piece with a V-neck top or round neck - it's a bit of an all rounder piece. If this is your first introduction to Emma and Roe, I recommend you to jump on their website just to check out their pieces, you might even find something you like!
When I hit the first quarter of 2017, I did some serious cutting down on makeup. I threw out more mascara than I can count and stopped layering on eye makeup. These days I care more for the quality of my skin and admires minimalism - but I still enjoy glamming up every now and then.
Base products, powders, bronzers and blushes are my most frequently used products. If I had to pick 2 products to survive with it would be a foundation and a bronzer.
I have been trying and testing Lycogel for some time, my skin became fairly inflamed from the over consumption of chocolate (?) I did over indulge. It was the perfect time to show you guys the effects of Lycogel and whether it's something you want to add in your basket.
Before we start, I just want to note that my actual skin tone was matched as a MAC NC-25, however I prefer foundation that's slightly darker and would opt for a NC30.
LYCOGEL BREATHABLE TINT
- Luminous and breathable light coverage
- Creates a healthy vibrant glow
- Available in 4 shades
MY VERDICT
The shade I trialled is in NR2 - darker than my preferred shade but blendable
As claimed, this is a very light weight tinted moisturiser. It's probably the product that will give you the lightest coverage out of the three products. I found the shade to be slightly... peachy? I was really hesitant to use this on my blotchy red skin days, but to my surprise it provided some coverage to the redness and just made me look slightly more tanned - which I didn't mind.
The consistency of the product is slightly creamy and very easy to spread. Containing SPF30, 6.4% titanium dioxide and 8.6% Zinc Oxide.
Unless my nose is seriously blocked, there seems to be no or barely any scent to Lycogel products?
I would not recommend NR2 for those with pale skin or if you prefer a shade that is lighter than your skin-tone. While I liked this product I did not love it, while it's probably one of the better tinted base products I have used but I probably would not actively purchase it.
LYCOGEL BREATHABLE CAMOUFLAGE
- Buildable coverage to overcome any skin concerns. Once dried you are then able to add an additional layer, recommended is 1 or 2 layers pending on skin concerns.
- Pat the second layer on, as it is a gel formula rubbing may disrupt the first layer.
- Matte Finish
- Lasts all day
- Available in 12 shades
- 20ml
MY VERDICT
The shade I trialled is in Pearl and it was a perfect match when blended, it possess a warm undertone, perfect for olive skin.
This product comes in a plastic pump bottle. The product is easily dispensed with precision. However I did find that, on occasion, there is residual product peeking out of the dispenser.
This is probably one of the most high coverage foundation I have ever used, a small pea size would cover my entire face and all my blemishes. I have been fortunate to experience minimal blemishes so I waited and waited to test this product on a blotchy bad skin day.
My skin was very blotchy and quite red/inflamed. With ONE light layer my blemishes, redness and most of my under eye circles were pretty much covered. It was very impressive.
The texture of the foundation is smooth and will fill in your smaller pores. It blends seamlessly with a brush or with you fingers.
This product is quite matte and would be the ideal high coverage foundation for those with oily skin. I have dry skin and find it to work better on very well hydrated skin, otherwise dryness around the corner of my nose is noted.
This foundation lasted on my face all day, every where except for my nose, I did notice some movements on my nose but the redness seem to have faded slightly after a day of wear? Amazing skincare properties??
Even thought the coverage is full, the foundation is lightweight and my skin feels breathable!
One downside to this product is that it only comes in a 20ml bottle VS standard foundation size being 30ml. I know a little goes a long way but I love this foundation and wish it contained more product!
LYCOGEL BREATHABLE CONCEALER
- Maximum coverage concealer great for blemishes and under eyes
- One layer is often sufficient, however if a second layer is required ensure to apply in patting motion
- Available in 3 shades (Light, Medium and Tan)
- 7.4ml
MY VERDICT
The shade I trialled is in Light and it was a perfect match.
The consistency of this concealer is fairly thick however easy to spread and doesn't tug on the skin. I find the best method of application is using your fingers. I like to dot it under my eyes and pat the product into the skin.
The concealer makes such a significant difference to my under eye region and brightens the area instantly. It's very creamy and did not latch onto any dry areas. I don't really have any fine lines under my eyes so I can't comment on whether it will sit in lines.
It covers blemishes well, but I personally feel that it does the best job under eyes. I applied a small amount to a swollen emerging pimple on my nose, whilst it did cover it and did a good job at covering it, but it did start sliding during the day.. which did not happen under my eyes.
This is probably one of the best concealer for under eyes I have used thus far.
Products featured were provided for editorial purposes
I am so happy and proud to announce that I have officially joined the Natura Siberica family! I have been extremely and fortunate to be a part of a bloody awesome program. If you have been following my blog, I have previously written about Natura Siberica, what sucked me in was their product quality and ethical practices/wild harvesting - sustainability is absolute key.
I am wooed by environmental appeal, it tops the chart and is on par or possibly even more important than visual aesthetics.
As a perk of joining the Natura Siberica family, they are offering 15% off your first order using LILYNOTLOUISE and Free Shipping when you spend $35 or more.
Ok, since I believe in 100% transparency across my platforms I just want everyone to know that this is an affiliate program, there is absolutely no pressure in purchasing (don't worry guys, I have a day job! I'm not really about making money via the blog, but if I do, it's great and I chuck it on grocery). It is however, a fantastic way to try Natura Siberica if you are curious.
I can't wait to introduce you guys to the products, if there's a product you are particularly interested in, pop it in a comment below.
Oh and don't forget to check out my Natura Siberica landing page.
The products featured were provided for editorial purpose, this is an affiliate program with monthly sponsorship.
For the few weeks I have been using Mecca Max products on a daily basis, giving everything a solid go because I felt comfortable enough to produce this post for you guys.
I feel that the launch of Mecca Max has been a very positive occurrence for many people, especially from a financial perspective.
If you want to know what's hot from Mecca Max's range, keep reading!
MECCA MAX TRIPLE THREAT FACE SHAPER POWDER $30
I have recently replaced my old bronzer/blush/highlighter trio with triple threat. The powders are encased in a beautiful metal packaging with a nice big mirror. The powders itself are not matte - I personally would prefer a matte bronzer, however the shimmer in the bronzer is fairly minimal and not quite noticeable on your face. I have been using the bronzer to contour, it seems to work fine on my light olive skin.
The highlighter is absolutely gorgeous, I've had people ask me which highlighter I am using when I wear it. The highlighter is buildable for a night time look. The blush is a rosy everyday staple that is also buildable. All three powders have a more warmer undertone with what appears to be gold shimmers. I personally feel that this powder is more geared towards those with a lighter complexion. However, you can still use this if you have a medium to light medium complexion, as the shades are all buildable.
MECCA MAX BANANA BAKE SKIN FILTER $24
This powder possess a yellow undertone which may not a good match for someone with a cooler complexion to use on it's own, but it will work fine as a light dust of finishing powder over foundation. Luckily it works great with my olive skin. I love using this product to set my under eye concealer and light dabs along my T-Zone, I feel that it does provide a filter over my skin making my skin look more even. I like this product, however I don't love it. It is however, a handy powder that is suitable for your purse.
MECCA MAX A-LIPSTER LIQUID LIPSTICK in SKINNY LATTE $28
Skinny Latte is a beautiful shade, I have received so many compliments wearing this shade! The long flat oval applicator allows precision, I was able to apply the liquid lipstick on my lips with ease and no error!
The product is definitely long lasting, I had a really long day and the lipstick was still present after 12 hours (although I did eat fairly cautiously), the formula is lightweight with a very slight tackiness. I feel that the liquid lipstick is mildly drying after a couple of hours of wear - I would recommend a lip balm over the top, but do note that my lips are usually quite dry.
Skinny Latte as a shade is SPOT ON, however the formula may not be for everyone. It would be ideal if the formula was more moisturising to cater for us girls with drier lips. Nonetheless, I would continue to use this product.
MECCA MAX DOUBLE VISION EYE COLOUR in TUSCAN SUN $16
This eyeshadow did not appeal to me at all when I first saw it, especially since the shades are not something I would usually wear or reach for. The first time I used it was when I made the Mecca Max YouTube Video (at the end of the post). I didn't think I would like this eyeshadow so much!
The cream formula is lightweight, pigmented and easy to blend whilst the powder formula is smooth and also very pigmented. I like to layer the powder over the cream for a lasting effect. Wear time is approximately 6-7hrs, at the 8hr mark you will start to notice some creasing.
To be honest, this is probably one of my favourite products out of the lot.
MECCA MAX OH MY MATTE MATTIFYING PRIMER $20
I don't often use matte primers, mainly because my skin is a combination of dry, dehydrated while being slightly oily around the T-Zone. I used this primer mainly on my nose to keep it matte, it did a fantastic job at keeping the oils at bay, however I just couldn't make it sit well underneath my concealer or foundation, it also felt too drying for my already dehydrated skin.
The consistency of the primer is quite thick, almost balm like, it spreads relatively well but I just cannot make it work. It's impossible for me to like and love every product I try, but I did give it a solid go over the past few weeks and decided this is just not a product for me.
MECCA MAX SHIMMER SHOT ILLUMINATING WAND in PEARL $25
This is a
stunning cream highlighter dispensed via a clickable pen with a brush on end, I
was amazed by the glow it was able to create. The first time I used it
I accidentally applied the cream on top of powder, which is a big no-no
and created a whole lot of mess. I ensure to always use this cream highlighter
on bare skin, on top of foundation or other cream products. I have been
using this product directly from the tube and utilizing the brush to
spread the highlighter onto my cheekbones, however for general day time work wear,
I prefer to rub it onto the back of my hand, warm it up with my fingers
and tap it onto my cheekbones.
This
cream formula is lightweight and non-tacky. It's buildable and great for both
day and night. My tip is to be cautious when dispensing the highlighter, I
often double click and more products came out than expected. To intensify the highlighter further, I recommend going over with the highlighter from triple threat, you will be GLOWING.
MECCA MAX WINK INK LIQUID EYELINER $20
I
absolutely love this dual ended eyeliner. I like to use the flat end to line
most of my eyes and the fine tip to define the wings (as seen in my video). I
wore this liner for a good 12 hours and it did not smudge or flake, there was a
small amount of fading but the liner stayed put and in tack. The formula
is quite pigmented and fast drying. Very impressed for a $20 liquid liner, definitely a hot product!
MECCA MAX EYE MAX POWER COUPLE MASCARA $38
This is
my most anticipated product from Mecca Max's collection. I have never seen a
wand so small, allowing love for all the smaller and impossible to coat or
reach lashes. I have been using the larger wand for my upper lashes and the
smaller wand for my lower lashes. The formula is not waterproof, if you have
watery eyes, you may notice some smudges. Unfortunately this also means that
the formula is unable to maintain curls - my lashes are ridiculously straight
so it's not a big surprise for non-waterproof formulas.
The
smaller wand is really a life saver, I was able to create never before seen
lengthy lower lashes, the degree of lash separation was jaw dropping.
I
personally feel that the smaller wand makes this mascara, it's so good for
those with smaller lashes or those who want to accentuate lower lashes without
smearing mascara all over the place.
It would
be fantastic if Mecca is able to create a couple mascara with tubular formula,
as I find those formulas to hold curls, washes off easily and unable to be smudged.
12 HOURS LATER
VIDEO DEMO
The products featured were provided for editorial purposes
