Beauty Graveyard // Empties April 2017

Its been quite a while since my last empties post! I have a huge bag full of products I've finished up as well as some stuff I just wanted to get rid of and I knew it was time that all these empties found there way into the bin!  I've got more products than I would normally have for an empties post so I'm only going to give mini reviews on products that I haven't mentioned before and skip the boring stuff like deodorant!

I've also linked all the products mentioned for your convenience (unless I couldn't find them online)!

//Makeup

I've got a few little makeup bits that are heading to the bin this time around!

Firstly, I've finished up an Urban Decay Naked Skin Concealer in the shade 'Fair Neutral'. I absolutely love this concealer and have already repurchased. I love the thin consistency of this product and how it sets to a velvety matte finish. I use this under my eyes because it doesn't crease at all for me and the colour is perfect for a highlighting effect that isn't too obvious or ashy. I am also getting rid of a Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer. I loved this product but it was getting old and since Laura Mercier isn't cruelty free I wanted it out of my collection. I did get a fair amount of use out of it though so not to sad to see it go.

I'm also throwing out a completely used and dried out Lancome Hypnose Mascara (also not cruelty free) and an empty pot of Mecca Cosmetica Lip de Luscious. Lip de Luscious is my absolute favourite lip balm ever and I have definitely repurchased!

//Tools

Following on from my makeup bits I'm getting rid of two sponges, two brush cleaners and an eyelash curler!

I'm throwing out a Real Techniques Complexion Sponge and a Beauty Blender - both well loved. I do prefer the original Beauty Blender over the Real Techniques counterpart so I have repurchased a few Beauty Blenders. I also loved the Beauty Blender Solid Cleanser which I completely used up. I would definitely repurchase but at the moment I am using their liquid cleanser which I also enjoy. Finally I finished up a Sephora Brand Daily Makeup Brush Cleaner. I wasn't a huge fan of this and have since tried the Mecca Cosmetica Brush With Success which I find to be more effective and also cruelty free - win-win! Also throwing out my Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler because its old and getting really stiff. Will not repurchase based on cruelty free status and I'm currently loving my Eyelash Curler from Eyeko which is also much more affordable!

//Skin

Lots of exciting skin stuff to talk about! I've been trying loads of skincare products lately which means sometimes it takes me longer to finish up products but I still have a lot to share with you this empties!

I'll start with cleansers and toners. I've been trying out a few different micellar waters since my old favourite from Garnier is not cruelty free. I tried the Swisse Micellar Makeup Remover as well as the Rosehip Micellar Water from Essano. Both worked really well as removing my makeup - including stubborn eye makeup. However, the Swisse one had a strange scent which was not too off putting but still not preferable. I've since repurchased the Essano.

I also finished up the No.1 Purity Cleansing Balm from Ren which is my favourite way to remove my makeup, especially when I'm wearing a full face! You apply this oil-based cleansing balm to dry since and massage to dissolve all the makeup and other dirt and oils on the skin. You do need a face cloth to remove this product though because it is too thick to remove with water alone. Absolutely love this product and have definitely repurchased!

Apart from my usual favourites - Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner and Clarisonic Sensitive Brush Head - I also finished a few little Kate Somerville minis. Firstly, the Nourish Hydrating Firming Mist was really beautiful and incredibly hydrating but something I don't necessarily need. I also tried the ExfoliKate Cleanser which was a fantastic cleanser for my oily/combination skin that gave a really good deep cleanse without drying out my skin. It worked well with my Clarisonic and left my skin feeling really smooth and looking bright and fresh! I'm not sure if I would repurchase yet. I'm not too fussed when it comes to cleansers (apart from my first step oil cleanse) and not sure I need something with exfoliation in it since I already do lots of exfoliation BUT! if you do like an all in one and have combo to oily skin would definitely recommend!

...and now onto creams and serums! I used up the Very Useful Face Cream by Go-To Skincare which was super lovely! I loved using this shea butter based moisturiser in the morning it kept my skin soft and hydrated all day. If I didn't already have a heap of unopened moisturisers at the moment I would 100% repurchase. I loved pairing the Very Useful Face Cream in the morning with the Bare Minerals Skinvongevity Vital Power Infusion underneath. This serum is really thin, almost like an essence and is hydrating and refreshing! A stand out ingredient in this serum is niacinamide which helps a lot with brightness and pore size. Again would repurchase in a second after I finish all my other serums!

Also finished a few little minis but nothing super exciting to say about these.

//Body

Nothing too exciting here - a few deodorants (Rexona Clinical Protection is my all time favourite) and my can't-live-without shaving cream which will change your life for $7!

//Hair

As usual I've used up a few Schwarzkopf Ultime Biotin Volume Dry Shampoo. However, I have a new favourite - the Klorane Dry Shampoo with Nettle for oily hair. This did such a fantastic job at really thoroughly cleansing my hair, especially after I've been to the gym, so once I finally finish my huge backup stash of Schwarzkopf, I'll repurchase the Klorane.

I'm very happy with how I wizzed through all those products so efficiently! Let me know if you use any of these products or if you have any recommendations for me :)

xx Catherine

Best of 2016: Skincare Finds

The end of the year is approaching... can you believe it?! It's been a pretty exciting year for beauty and for me I especially got excited about skincare and figuring out not only the best thing for my skin but also how different ingredients work and what is the best way to solve any skin problem. I wanted to share with you not just my regular favourites, but the products I have discovered this year that have made a huge difference to my skin and that I really, really enjoyed using.

My philosophy about skincare is that you should enjoy using it. Skincare should be part of a ritual of treating yourself every morning and night so you can feel super confident in your own skin.

For reference, I'm 21 years old and my skin is oily-combination, prone to blackheads. I don't experience many breakouts, mostly just congestion on my cheeks and chin. I also love my skin to look glowy and radiant and I am most concerned about unevenness in my skin tone. So these products are what I've found work best for me!

1//
Undoubtedly my favourite skincare find of the year was the Josie Maran Whipped Argan Oil Face Butter. I initially didn't think this product would be for me or suit my oily-combo skin but I was so wrong! Of course the hero ingredient is Argan Oil which features in all of Josie's products and in combination with aloe and shea butter my skin feels gloriously soft. I loved this during winter as it is intensely hydrating but not thick and absorbs into the skin really well. I just love how this feels on my face and I really enjoy applying it even though it doesn't have a particular scent. Overall, whether you're super dry and looking for a big hit of moisture or oily and want to keep your skin looking glowy and fresh I would definitely recommend trying out this moisturiser. I would buy again and again.

2//
I actually started using this product last year, but only here and there so I didn't really notice the difference. However, after using the Ren Wake Wonderful Night Time Facial consistently, I can easily say this is my absolute favourite chemical exfoliator I've tried. With both lactic and glycolic acids as well as a variety of hydrating ingredients, whenever I use this as night, I'll wake up the next morning and my skin is incredibly smooth and so radiant! I use this around 3 times a week in conjunction with a AHA/BHA toner once a day as well as a more intense physical exfoliator once a week in order to keep my skin consistently even and bright!

3//
A really surprising discovery for me this year was the Bare Minerals Skinlongevity Vital Power Infusion (basically its a serum!). I was super excited to try the Bare Minerals skin care range when it launched in Mecca earlier this year and out of all the products I have tried from the range this is the most impressive, becoming a staple in my AM skincare routine. I love that it is so thin in texture and absorbs into the skin super quickly as well as being really refreshing which is perfect for the morning. One of the top ingredients is niacinamide which is great for both brightening the skin and reducing the appearance of pores. When I apply this serum in the morning under my moisturiser, my skin looks bright and stays moisturised all day!

4//
Finally, this year I stepped away from my favourite Origins masks and found a new favourite, the Swisse Manuka Honey Detoxifying Mask. I absolutely love this mask, particularly for my oily-combo skin. Using once a week does wonders for helping remove congestion around my nose and chin and drawing out all those annoying blackheads. It is also fantastic for helping balance out any oil production in the t-zone. The main ingredients are charcoal and kaolin clay which are both very detoxifying but also quite drying. I would recommend prepping the skin with a hydrating mist toner before applying the mask. I find using a detoxifying mask once a week helps immensely with keeping my skin consistently clear.

That's it! As I mentioned before I didn't include everything I use in my everyday routine or boring stuff like my favourite cleanser etc. just products that make my skin feel AMAZING every time I use them.

What are some of your ultimate skincare products?

xx Cat

Tried & Tested // Go-To Skincare

A couple of months ago I purchased a few items from Go-To, the skin care line founded by the incredible Zoe Foster Blake. I was tempted to buy a few things mainly because they recently launched a new product - Pinky Nudey Lips! - a hydrating, tinted lip balm. While I was placing an order I also decided to try Very Useful Face Cream as well as Exceptionoil. After giving all three products a really good test I'm sharing with you my thoughts.

First off, Go-To is an Australian company that is also cruelty free and doesn't contain use any mineral oils, parabens, synthetic colours or fragrances, sulfates or silicones which gets a huge tick from me! Great for your skin, all the fluffy animals and you're supporting an Aussie business - yay!

I was so excited to try Pinky Nudey Lips! and was hoping it would be a replacement for my favourite lip balm, Mecca Lip de Luscious, because having to dig lip balm out of a pot is not super easy on the go. Whilst I absolutely loved the slight pink tint, unfortunately the lip balm itself is not as nourishing as I had hoped. The texture is quite thin and feels super comfortable on the lips and does give hydration, just not lasting nourishment. I love the scent and the squeezy tube packaging and it has definitely become a staple in my on-the-go makeup bag. I just still need something a little extra as well, particularly during the colder months.

The second product I've been using from Go-To is their Very Useful Face Cream. I absolutely love this moisturiser for a few different reasons. Firstly, it has a shea butter base which is super hydrating, blends really well and also works fantastically underneath makeup. Secondly, the scent is divine (fig and natural rose) without being too overpowering for the face. Thirdly, I just feel like my skin looks great all day when I apply this in the morning and it keeps my skin looking bright and hydrated throughout the day rather than just for a little bit. I have super oily skin so I was worried this will be a little too heavy for me (and it might be in summer) but so far I've been absolutely loving it as my day time face cream. The only downside for me is the packaging. Whilst the squeezy tube is convenient I find the tube a little too tall and clumsy so its hard to store without falling over.

The last product I tried from Go-To is their Exceptionoil which is basically a multipurpose oil-based balm that you can use on your body, face and hair. I've been using it mainly on my body and oh my goodness this stuff is absolutely heavenly! The product is mainly coconut oil as well as being packed with heaps of other delicious and hydrating oils. The scent is Monoi Tiare which is gardenias (i'm pretty sure) but mostly smells like you're frolicking around a tropical island. In terms of effectiveness, it has been really beneficial on my parched, dry winter skin and is great after shaving. Because it is mainly coconut oil, it becomes hard in the tube due to the colder weather, but if you run it under warm water for around 30 seconds it will soften and be all ready to use. Again, I have similar feelings about the packaging to the Very Useful Face Cream - I just think they could to better.

Overall, I'm pretty impressed by the three products I tried from Go-To. Exactly as they claimed, the products are simple and effective. I can't say that the products drastically changed my skin, I didn't try enough of the range and my skin was (thankfully) already in pretty good shape. However, I would definitely recommend the range for anyone who wants a great, natural based range to maintain healthy skin. The whole range is at a fantastic price point too!

Have you used anything from the Go-To skincare range?

xx Cat

Beauty Graveyard // Empties July 2016

My last beauty graveyard post was in March and I just couldn't put off this post any longer as my little bag of empties started overflowing! This post mentions everything from hair, skincare and makeup bits, so grab a cup of tea and get comfy.

Starting off with hair products - I'm so surprised I've finished so many hair products because I hardly do anything with my hair to be honest. Of course, it wouldn't be one of my empties post without a Schwarzkopf Ultime Biotin Volume Dry Shampoo. I go through this stuff like its going out of style, but it's my fave dry shampoo and I still have heaps of backups from the last Priceline 40% off haircare sale. Also from Schwarzkopf I've finish up an Ultimate Oil Elixir Serum. I really enjoyed this because it left my hair feeling super soft and incredibly shiny and I would usually use this before blowdrying my hair. I haven't repurchased but would consider repurchasing in the future.

I've also finished up some high-end hair care as well. I've been using the Michael Van Clarke 3 More Inches for the last couple of months and really enjoying it. I finished up both the shampoo and conditioner in travel sizes and since repurchased the full sizes. I do much prefer the shampoo as it is really clarifying but doesn't take all the weight out of my fine hair. The conditioner isn't my favourite however, as I feel like other conditioners leave my hair feeling much softer. Not too sure yet if I would repurchase the full sizes again, I'll probably try something different. Finally, I finished up the Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Primer. I love this stuff as a heat protectant and isn't heavy at all in my hair. Already repurchased.

Next up are some body products. Nothing too exciting here, another Rexona Clinical Protect which is my favourite deodorant and of course I've repurchased. I also used up a Mitchum Clinical Deodorant, which I didn't mind at all in terms of its effectiveness but the packaging was so annoying and incredibly difficult to wind up so I will not be repurchasing. Finally, I've also used up a travel size of the Korres Guava Body Butter. This stuff is heavenly! Such a pretty, non-overwhelming scent and so moisturising. I did originally buy this as a hand cream to keep in my handbag, but it is a little heavy and takes a while to sink into your hands so I would recommend this more for the body. Haven't repurchased because I have too many body butters/moisturisers but definitely will in the future!

I've finished up a heap of skincare in the last couple of months! I'll start with the products from Origins. First is the High Potency Night-A-Mins Cream. This is a really beautiful night cream packed full of essential oils. It really does re-energise your skin overnight and leave it looking really fresh and bright, however, I had a bit of sensitivity to it because of all the essential oils and it left my skin really itchy. Next up is the Original Skin Renewal Serum. This serum was great at adding a little extra hydration to my skin, but to be honest I hardly noticed any difference when using it - and I went through the whole bottle, would pass. Finally, is the Never a Dull Moment Scrub and WOW I love this stuff. It smells delicious and I noticed such an immediate difference in my skin after using it. I usually leave it on my skin as a mini mask and let the enzymes work a little longer. Fantastic at leaving your skin super soft and glowing! On the most part I love Origins products and they work really well for me but I have decided not to purchase their products anymore because they are not cruelty free.

I've also finished up a deluxe sample of the Kate Sommerville Gentle Daily Wash which I absolutely loved using particularly in conjunction with my Clarisonic. It gave a really deep clean without being harsh or stripping. Would definitely consider purchasing the full size (when I don't have 7 different cleanser already!). Another sample size I've used up is the Korres Wild Rose Moisturising Cream, another product I loved. I loved the scent of this, how hydrating it was and how it absorbed really quickly as well as working wonderfully under makeup. Would consider purchasing the full size. So many travel sizes! I'm also finished with my Josie Maran Aragn Milk which I included in my May Beauty Favourites. I have purchased the full size of this because *love heart eyes emoji* - just obsessed! I've also used a Skyn Iceland Icelandic Relief Eye Pen which is probably the only eye cream I've been consistent with using because it works so well! Its really refreshing and gives a nice amount of hydration without being too heavy. Every other eye cream I have used in the past has been too heavy and given me milia under the eyes so I absolutely swear by this stuff! Already repurchased. And finally for skincare, I'm getting rid of my Clarisonic Acne Brush Head. I was kindly gifted this at a Clarisonic event last year and it is only just launching in Australia in the next month. I really loved this because the bristles were longer than the regular sensitive brush head which means you could get a deep cleanse without it being too harsh. I just repurchased the Sensitive brush head again to get me through but will probably go back to this one in the future.

Finally onto makeup bits! Firstly I had a big mascara clean out and got rid of all the mascaras that has been floating around in my collection for way too long and just ready to give me some sort of eye infection. The Tarte Lights, Camera, Flashes Mascara was nice and gave heaps of volume but it had a plastic bristle wand which I don't really like. Won't repurchase. Next up, Lancôme Grandiôse Mascara, god I hate this stuff which is such a same because I'm a huge fan of their other mascaras. Again, its the plastic bristle issue but I find this just makes my lashes so clumpy, obviously will not repurchase. Another, plastic bristle brush, the Maybelline Lash Sensational is one I actually really love. I really liked how this made my lashes look, added heaps of length and separation. Will not repurchase though as Maybelline tests on animals :( Finally the Josie Maran Black Oil Mascara, again quite nice but is quite natural and didn't give me the length that I like from a mascara. I think this would be better suited for someone with longer lashes. Will not repurchase.

I'm finally getting rid of the L'Oreal Brow Artist Plumper. If you read my review on this product I was less than impressed with this product. Maybe you would like it if you like your brows to feel hard and crunchy. Not even going to link this product because seriously you don't want to buy it. Moving onto some of my favourite products ever, first is the NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base. This is my favourite eye primer ever because it allows you to blend shadows really easily over the top, which I sometimes have trouble with if I use either the UD Primer Potion or Too Faced Shadow Insurance. This tube lasted me about a year too, so it's great value and I've already repurchased! I also loved the Kevin Aucoin Precision Brow Pencil and much prefer this over the Anastasia Brow Wiz. Will repurchase once I finish my current brow pencil. I also used up a Kat Von D Tattoo Liner in Trooper, which I didn't warm to immediately but it's definitely my favourite liquid liner now I've got the hang of it and I love that it is so intensely black. I've already repurchased. Finally is the NARS Larger than Life Long-Wear Eye pencil in Rue Bonaparte. A product I constantly rave about its a perfect beige shade for the waterline, repurchased of course.

So glad I can finally throw out all of these products!

Let me know in the comments if you use any of these products and if you like any of the ones I didn't!

xx Cat

Best of Beauty // May 2016

 Welcome back to the blog! I've been stuck in a bit of a beauty rut for a while but in the last month I've been trying some really great products and wanted to share them with you.

On my search for some awesome cruelty free products to add into my collection I purchased a few products from Josie Maran. All Josie Maran products are based off 100% organic argan oil that is also sustainably harvested and pressed. I've used some of Josie's colour range before and her highlighters are my absolute favourite! In the last month however, I've really been loving her Argan Oil Hair Serum as well as the Pure Argan Milk Treatment. The Argan Hair Oil has been amazing for keeping my hair silky soft as well as reducing frizziness. I have really fine hair and the oil is light enough that it gives heaps of hydration without weighing down my hair at oil. The Pure Argan Milk is something I've been wanting to try for ages and grabbed because I was on the hunt for a new serum. The texture is really thin and feels similar to a facial oil on the skin. I really love it because it is super hydrating and gives your skin a noticeable glow straight away. I would definitely recommend adding this into your nighttime skincare routine, especially as we enter the colder months.

My first makeup favourite this month is a lipstick I've had in my collection for a while but have re-discovered and I just haven't wanted to wear anything else! The Lipstick Queen Lipstick in 'Nude Sinner' is the most beautiful deep nude shade that pulls almost terracotta on me - absolutely perfect for autumn! The best thing about these lipsticks is the beautiful formula. They are super creamy and opaque with a matte finish that lasts incredibly well on the lips. Lipstick Queen is the brand of Aussie Poppy King and is completely cruelty free.

My next makeup favourite is a fairly new release. Hourglass has recently added to their Ambient Lighting collection with three new Ambient Amplifying Primers that give you the same particular lighting effect as their powders, but as the first step in your routine. My favourite has been 'Mood Light' which is a soft pink shade that is evens out the skin tone (which you can see in the photo below) and gives the skin a subtle glow. I found the primer also really smoothing on my skin and did give some extra longevity to my makeup.

Left: No makeup. Right: Ambient Amplifying Primer in 'Mood Light'

My final favourite for May is also from Hourglass. Hourglass is one of my all time favourite brands and their Ambient Lighting Palette is one of the most special makeup products I own. The palette has three shades of Hourglass' famous Ambient Lighting powders which give the skin a beautiful, soft focus glow - Dim Light is great for using all over the face to set foundation, Incandescent Light is a gorgeous highlighter shade and Radiant Light is a light bronze shade that I love to use around the edges of the face for a bit of warmth. I've been reaching for this palette almost every day during May and every time I use these powders I love the way my skin looks! In particular, Incandescent Light has been my choice to create an beautiful strobing effect.

If you are interested in cruelty free makeup I would definitely recommend checking out Hourglass. Hourglass is the most luxurious brand with beautiful packaging and incredibly high-quality products.

That's all for this month!
xx Cat

Beauty Graveyard // Empties March 2016

Today I'm reviewing a whole heap of products I've completely used up over the last couple of months or so and let you know whether or not I liked them enough to repurchase!

Skincare, Body & Hair

// Lacura Micellar Cleansing Water
I am a huge fan of micellar waters, as you probably already know, and so when I saw that Aldi had one I decided to give it a go. Unfortunately, its one of those limited edition products Aldi brings out so it's not part of their regular line. This was okay, but I still prefer the Garnier one. Most annoyingly the lid broke after like a week so I had to be careful not to spill it everywhere. Would not repurchase.

// Lancôme Tonique Douceur
I absolutely love this toner! A bit pricey, but a little goes a long way. It's alcohol free and I find it great to help remove any leftover makeup after cleansing and also leaving my skin feeling really soft and refreshed. I also find it helps with balancing out the oiliness in my skin - I recommend a toner for anyone with oily skin! At the moment I'm still using my Mario Badescu toner but will definitely repurchase after I finish with that one.

// Trishave Shave Créme
This stuff is a complete life saver and I can't believe I've only discovered shaving creams in the last six months or so it actually has made my life so much better! It contains rose and tea tree oils to hydrate the skin and also help prevent shaving rash, itchyness and ingrown hairs. I would recommend this to everyone and I'm never going back to shaving without it. Already repurchased!

//Rexona Clinical Protection Deodorant 
The Rexona Clinical Protect Deodorants are absolutely the best option I've found in terms of deodorants. They not only control odour but actually help a lot with wetness as well. I was really keen to get into natural deodorants but they weren't nearly as effective as this one. Already repurchased.

// Clarisonic Sensitive Brush Head
Just like a toothbrush, with the Clarisonic brush heads you know when it's time to get a new one. The bristles get a little bit soft and splay out in all different directions. I usually use my Clarisonic once a day after removing my makeup so I found my brush head lasted about five months. I definitely found using my Clarisonic really helped improve the quality of my skin and my skin has been consistently clearer since using it to cleanse my face. I'm using a different brush head to this one at the moment but would definitely go back to repurchasing the sensitive brush head in the future.

// Philosophy Purity Cleanser
I love Philosophy's Purity Cleanser and have been using it for around six months now. It's great at removing makeup, including eye makeup without stinging your eyes, and it works well with my Clarisonic. I have already repurchased, especially considering that the 480mL is such awesome value!

// Schwarzkopf Biotin' Volume Dry Shampoo
I've tried my fair share of dry shampoo over the years but this one is hands down my favourite! It actually feels like it cleans my hair properly as well as giving it heaps of volume. I've definitely repurchased (and I have about four backups too)!

 Makeup

// Beauty Blender

Another BB has met its end thanks to mould :( Can't live without though so I have already repurchased. 

// Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray

One of the most surprising discoveries of 2015, I absolutely fell in love with Urban Decay's All Nighter and never miss it in my makeup routine. I find it makes such a difference to how well foundation sits on the skin and also helps prevent foundation from breaking up on the skin. I also find it is really great at extending the wear of blush and bronzer too. Although it is quite pricey, the bottle lasted me around 9 months so I could definitely justify the spend. Already repurchased.

// Tarte Amazonian Clay Gifted Mascara

I absolutely love Tarte mascaras and this one was no exception! Its really build-able but never gets too clumpy so you still get a really pretty fluttery effect. It didn't give me as much length as I wanted though and I found towards the end of the tube as it dried out it started getting super flakey. I do have a backup of this mascara but I will probably give it away since there are other mascaras I enjoy more.

// Hourglass Mineral Veil Primer

When it comes to luxury products, Hourglass does it so right. Their mineral veil primer is probably the best primer I've ever tried and during Sydney's humid summer its the only product I can rely on. I have repurchased, but stuck with the travel size because I don't use it all the time and wow this stuff is expensive.

// Benefit Gimme Brow

The Gimme Brow is one of the best brow products I've ever tried. It has little fibres and a tinted gel that fills in the brows really nicely. I really like how it has a really little brush so you don't get product everywhere. I haven't repurchased yet and probably won't in the near future because I have a few brow products on the go already.

// YSL Touche Eclat

The YSL Touche Eclat gets a fair amount of hype on the internet and I definitely believe that it deserves the hype. It has the most beautiful, thin formula that blends like a dream and it fantastic at brightening under the eyes. It doesn't provide much coverage so I like to apply a corrector under my eyes first. Would definitely repurchase (just haven't gotten around to it yet because it's so expensive!!)

// Bobbi Brown Long-wear Gel Eyeliner

I didn't actually finish this product but it was a little dried up and had heaps of glitter in it so it was getting impossible to use. I love this formula for doing winged liner because it has a nice matte finish as well as being long-wearing. I have repurchased. 

What are some of your most repurchased products?

xx Cat

Tried & Tested: Glam Glow FlashMud Brightening Treatment

I had my eye out for this latest release from GlamGlow ever since I saw Jaclyn Hill sing its praises in one of her monthly favourites video. I've tried out the GlamGlow masks before and have really enjoyed how they worked for my skin but never thought I needed to invest in one. My main concern with my skin at the moment is uneven skin tone including pigmentation and acne scarring so I really wanted to give FlashMud a go after hearing rave reviews!

Unlike the other GlamGlow masks, FlashMud is almost translucent on the skin after applying a thin layer - it also smells great too! It does have exfoliating particles and is recommended that you apply the mask in circular motions, exfoliating your skin before leaving the mask on for 20 minutes so as the product can penetrate deeper into the skin. The exfoliating particles aren't too harsh and on my skin I didn't experience any tingling or discomfort at all.

After washing the mask off after 20 minutes, my skin feels incredibly soft and smooth. It is recommended when you first start the treatment to use the mask 3 days in a row. After the initial three days I definitely noticed an improvement in my skin. Not only was the texture of my skin smooth and even but my complexion was brighter and I also noticed that some of my acne spots had faded.

Overall I am very impressed with the GlamGlow FlashMud especially since I am getting exactly the results I was hoping for. After the initial three days of use, I now use the mask around twice a week and I am super happy with how even my skin tone is looking!

KEY INGREDIENTS:

• White Jasmine Flower
• Willow Bark Salicylic Acid
• White Birch Leaf

GlamGlow FlashMud retails for $86 and you can purchase in store at Mecca Cosmetica, Mecca Maxima or online at mecca.com.au

Cat
xx

Intents Beauty Favourites: Origins Masks

Recently I posted this photo on my instagram showing off my much loved Origins mask collection. It was definitely love at first use with these masks ever since I first tried the delicious Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask. From there my collection has grown to include these 4 amazing masks which I will be reviewing for you in this post! All of the masks mentioned below are $37 and can be purchased at Mecca Maxima, Kit Cosmetics or mecca.com.au

// Clear Improvement Active Charcoal Mask

An essential in anyone's bathroom cupboard, Clear Improvement is perfect for maintaining a really clear complexion and minimising the appearance of pores. A lot of dirt and other pollution gets trapped in pores on a daily basis so it's a good idea to use a detoxifying mask a few times a weak to keep your skin squeaky clean and also to help your skincare absorb better! The great thing about Clear Improvement is that it is really effective without being drying or harsh on your skin so it is great for all skin types, including sensitive. 

BEST FOR: Detoxifying congested skin and clearing blackheads.
KEY INGREDIENTS: Activated Charcoal, White China Clay, Lecithin

// Out of Trouble 10 Minute Mask

Out of Trouble is one of my holy grail skincare products and one that I reach for a lot because it does exactly what it says - gets your skin out of trouble! When my skin is particularly stressed out this mask is great for calming redness and reducing inflammation as well dragging out all those nasty impurities that can clog your skin. Another great benefit of this mask is that it contains salicylic acid to exfoliate within the pores and help prevent future breakouts. Definitely a great product if you have oily, acne prone skin.

BEST FOR: Calming inflamed breakouts and keeping future spots at bay.
KEY INGREDIENTS: Zinc Oxide, Sulphur, Camphor

// Original Skin Retexurising Mask

The newest addition to the Origins mask range is the Original Skin mask which not only draws out impurities to detoxify the skin but also has exfoliating particles to leave your skin feeling smooth and soft. I also would definitely recommend this product if you suffer from blackheads or whiteheads. I had a few little spots under the surface of the skin but after using this mask I could tell that they had come to the surface and then cleared by the exfoliating beads. I loved the rose scent of this mask and I definitely noticed a difference in both the texture and brightness of my skin after only one use.

BEST FOR: Removing dry, flaky skin to keep skin smooth and bright!
KEY INGREDIENTS: Rose Clay, Willow Herb and Jojoba beads

// Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask

By far my most used mask, I reach for Drink Up Intensive every second night or so. The best thing about Drink Up Intensive is its delicious apricot scent and how fast you see results. When you wake up after wearing this mask overnight, dehydrated skin will feel super soft. An absolute essential during the colder months and is also great for flying.

BEST FOR: Injecting dehydrated skin with a heap of moisture!
KEY INGREDIENTS: Apricot Kernel Oil, Avocado and Japanese Seaweed

xx Cat

My Winter Skincare Routine

I'm sure I'm not the only one who experiences their skin getting a little out of control during winter. When the temperature and humidity drops so does the levels of moisture in my skin. Today's post features all my favourite skincare products I've been using to boost hydration as well as to even out my skin's texture, fade acne scars and prevent future breakouts.

1// Cleansing - twice a day

Cleansing is the first step to maintaining healthy skin. I wear makeup most days so double cleansing is a must for me to make sure there is no trace of makeup left on my skin! To remove most of my makeup I really love using micellar water as it is quick and effective - even for waterproof eye makeup! Not to mention using a micellar water with cotton pads is more cost effective than buying makeup wipes. My favourite is the Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water. After removing my makeup I will then go in with Philosophy Purity Cleanser to remove any other impurities left on my skin. I absolutely love this cleanser as it leaves my skin squeaky clean without being too harsh. It is also fantastic at removing eye makeup without causing irritation to the eyes.

2// Toning - twice a day

There's a long running debate in the beauty community - to tone, or not to tone. I've always used a toner as part of my basic skincare routine and definitely recognise the benefits. During winter I've switched to using the Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner which has both glycolic acid and grapefruit extract to gently exfoliate the skin. Since my skin has been a little more dehydrated than usual, using this exfoliating toner helps remove any flakiness on the surface of my skin as well as maintaining the skin's natural glow. A really great one to try if your skin is looking a bit lacklustre.

3// Exfoliating - 2/3 times a week

My winter skincare routine features exfoliating with the Origins Never a Dull Moment Scrub between two or three times a week. It's super important not to exfoliate too often with an abrasive, manual exfoliator otherwise you could be damaging healthy skin cells rather than just removing the dead ones. I love Never a Dull Moment because it smells incredible and is really fantastic at brightening the complexion. As well as being a manual exfoliator, it has fruit enzymes as well to further exfoliate the skin.

4// Moisturising - twice a day

Probably the most important part of your skincare routine to maintain during winter is moisturising. The skin is so easily dehydrated during the colder months that it is crucial to maintain the moisture in your skin to protect it. I have been using the Origins Make A Difference + Rejuvenating Moisturiser which not only moisturises the skin but will repair the skin so that it holds onto moisture more efficiently. I have been using this moisturiser both morning and night because it is super hydrating but also a fantastic base for makeup. If I feel like treating my skin to something a bit richer I cannot go past the Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask. Drink Up Intensive is such a treat for your skin, not only because it seriously injects life into dehydrated skin but it smells so delicious it's my favourite part of my skincare routine!

5// Nourishing - 1-2 times a day

Especially during winter I want to be extra sure that I am not only hydrating my skin but protecting it from the harsh cold and dry weather conditions by feeding it extra nutrients. My favourite way to do this is to use a facial oil and at the moment I've been loving the Tarte Pure Maracuja Oil. I use about two drops and pat it into my skin. I love using a facial oil in the morning before applying makeup to really hydrate and smooth out my skin.

6// Treatment - as needed

As well as my basic skincare routine, I like to add different treatments to target specific skincare concerns. Having oily/combination skin means I often get the odd breakout and I am always struggling with blackheads on my chin and nose. To really decongest my skin and help reduce blackheads I like to use a mask once or twice a week, depending how my skin is feeling.

At the moment I'm loving the Origins Out of Trouble 10 Minute Mask. With calming ingredients like zinc oxide and camphor, as well as sulfur which helps absorbs oil, this masks leaves troubled skin feeling super soft and refreshed as well as noticeably reducing any redness or inflammation. I also like using this mask because it has salicylic acid which exfoliates within the pores, therefore you aren't just decongesting the skin, but helping reduce the risk of future breakouts.

Of course to banish spots as they happen, I can't go past the Mario Badescu Drying Lotion. A true miracle product that has cult status for a good reason, this stuff will get rid of pesky white heads over night!

So that's my skincare routine! For some it may seem a little excessive but as a skincare junkie I really love indulging in taking care of my skin. If you are thinking "ain't nobody got time for that!" my advice would be to have a simple routine that includes cleansing and moisturising daily.

xx Cat

Origins Skincare Review

For the last couple of years I've been struggling a lot with my skin. Having oily skin means black heads and breakouts and makeup never lasting and also somehow being dehydrated. Forgive me but trying to tackle all of those concerns at once can be a little confusing and overwhelming. Having tried so many different products and sometimes seeing results but most often not, its easy to get lazy and just do whatever.

I've recently learned a lot about skincare and how to tackle specific skin concerns. I figured my first issue of a super oily t-zone and uneven skin texture was probably a result of exfoliating too much (yep -twice a day...) and also not giving my skin the hydration it needed.

So I decided to try some products from Origins to switch up my skincare routine because (a) they are affordable (b) they use natural ingredients and (c) they smell good!

Because I do wear makeup most days, I wanted to feel like I was getting a decent clean, especially since I knew I had to start cutting down on scrubs. I liked the idea of the Checks and Balances Frothy Face Wash because it still foams without containing sulphates. I use this cleanser at night after I remove my makeup and it leaves my skin feeling so refreshed and smooth. It is marketed for use on all skin types and it has definitely made my skin more balanced. I don't feel it has exacerbated any dehydration I have around my cheeks and forehead while still controlling my oily t-zone.
I would definitely recommend this to anyone who struggles to maintain their combination skin.

I have also added the Origins Make A Difference Plus+ Rejuvenating Moisturiser into my everyday routine. The Make a Difference range is specifically targeted to restore hydration into the skin and repair the skin over time to improve it's own moisture retention. I am absolutely in love with this moisturiser and it is perfect to use underneath makeup. I find it instantly brightens my skin as well as making it feel really smooth helping everything that goes on top look much better! I love that it locks in moisture all day so that even after wearing makeup all day I don't feel as if my skin is really tight and dry. I also really like its light texture so it doesn't feel heavy at all and absorbs quickly into the skin. I'm really interested to see how the overall hydration of my skin improves from continued use. My only gripe with this product is that it is in a tub which is a little less convenient than a tube or pump bottle - but there is definitely heaps of product to last you a really long time!

 If that wasn't enough hydration for my skin I've also started using the Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask 2-3 times a week. After wearing this at night I guarantee you will wake up with the softest skin that looks so bright and healthy! It also has apricot kernel oil so it smells so delicious! Just like the Make A Difference Moisturiser, this mask it not thick or heavy on the skin at all! If you have really dehydrated skin you could definitely use this as your nightly moisturiser.

To specifically tackle some of my more oily issues - acne and stubborn blackheads - I've been using the Out of Trouble 10 Minute Mask as well as Never a Dull Moment Face Polisher both each a few times a week. I really want my skin to look brighter and more naturally luminous and both these products have been so effective. I have been popping the Out of Trouble Mask on all over my face around once a week, whilst using as a spot treatment whenever needed. It has a pleasant and refreshing menthol scent, but it might be quite strong for some - definitely don't get it too close to the eyes. After using the mask you can see such a huge difference in the size of pores and it leaves your face feeling so smooth! I chose this mask also because it contains salicylic acid which exfoliates within the pores and is fantastic in helping to prevent future breakouts. So far so good - but I'd definitely like to see if my breakouts do reduce significantly after using this mask consistently.

Never a Dull Moment is a brightening exfoliator and I was interested in trying this one because it contains fruit extracts so I knew I would be getting an enzymatic exfoliation as well as manual. I absolutely love this so far and find that it isn't as abrasive as my usual St Ive's scrub but with better results. It definitely leaves your face feeling brighter and super smooth. Also the scent of this is incredible!

Overall I'm really impressed with all the products I have tried from Origins so far and definitely have some more on my wish list. I would definitely recommend these products to those looking for an effective natural skincare brand. The only thing I would warn against is that the products have quite strong scents, although they are all completely natural and no synthetic fragrances are used. If you don't like using anything too scented, these products are probably not for you.

Origins is available instore at Mecca Maxima and Kit Cosmetics or at mecca.com.au

xx Cat

Follow me!

Bloglovin' 

Instagram @_cat.mac

Twitter @cathsintents

Youtube

Top 10: Skincare Tips

1// Makeup Removal

The golden rule of skincare - NEVER SLEEP IN YOUR MAKEUP! Whilst accidentally sleeping in your makeup once isn't going to do permanent damage to your skin, it's a really bad habit to get into. Makeup wipes are widely accessible and are the most convenient way for wiping off your makeup at the end of the day. However, I prefer something more gentle and I find that using a micellar water on the back of a cotton pad is more effective, gentler on the skin and also way more affordable!

Try: Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water [$12.99]

2// Cleanse

The skin on our face is fairly sensitive to external conditions such as the weather, pollution in the air and also to the stuff we put on our face such as makeup. Cleansing is therefore a crucial step to make sure your face is getting a proper clean - just standing in the shower isn't going to remove the dirt and natural oils trapped in pores. For people with oily skin I recommend a cleanser with salicylic acid for acne control.If your skin type leans more dry or normal a cream cleanser would be more appropriate as you don't need such a deep cleanse.

Try: Biore Deep Pore Charcoal Cleanser [$10.99] (for oily skin) or Natio Gentle Cleansing Milk [$16.95] (for dry or normal skin types)

3// Exfoliate

Exfoliation is another step to maintaining healthy skin as it helps to remove the dead skin cells on the skin's surface. Removing the dead skin cells helps your skin maintain a smooth even texture and will improve the way that your foundation applies and looks on your face. Especially if you have particularly dry skin, its necessary to remove the dry and flaky patches for your foundation to go on smoothly. Exfoliation can be both manual - using scrubs - or chemical - using products like chemical peels.

Try: St. Ives Naturally Clear Green Tea Scrub [$9.99], St. Ives Apricot Blemish Control Scrub [$9.99], John Plunkett Glyco Peel [$29.95]

4// Tone

There's quite a bit of debate about whether toners are necessary or not and I am also guilty of forgetting about this step. However, I think using a well formulated toner can definitely give your skin extra benefits. A mist toner is really great for adding extra hydration and 'waking up' the skin. I also find using a hydrating mist toner helps my moisturiser absorb better. Toners that you use on a cotton pad have actually made a huge difference to my skin, particularly in removing any makeup, oils and dirt that still hang around after cleansing. Taking that extra step can help in the appearance of pores and again work to even out the overall tone and texture of the complexion.

Try: Lancome Tonique Doucer [$56.00], L'Occitante Immortelle Essential Water [$42.00], or for something a little more affordable Sukin Hydrating Mist Toner [$9.99]

5// Moisturise

As I mentioned above, makeup looks better on your face if the texture on your face is smooth and even. Moisturising is essential as it hydrates your skin making it soft and radiant. Even if you have oily skin, you've likely felt your skin feeling 'tight' after cleansing and exfoliating and using a moisturiser can still be useful to maintain hydration. I usually use a light moisturiser in the morning that won't feel greasy under my makeup and then a heavier moisturiser in the evening that can sink in and rejuvenate my skin over night.

Try: Simple Hydrating Light Moisturiser [$9.99] (suitable for all skin types), Natio Antioxidant Face Moisturiser [$17.95]
* There are so many options when it comes to moisturiser the two mentioned above are my favourite and ones I continue to use and repurchase.

6// Feed & Treat

Sometimes your skin just needs a little TLC. Whether its 'that time of the month', you're stressed about exams or even a change in season, sometimes our skin acts a little crazy and a regular routine of cleaner, exfoliate, moisturise just doesn't cut it. As soon as I started feeding my skin with extra nutrients I noticed a huge difference in the texture and overall brightness of my complexion. For me, adding a facial oil really helped control breakouts, even out my complexion and reduce scarring and pigmentation from old spots. I think all skin types can benefit from using facial oils but there are also heaps of different serums and treatments to tackle all sorts of skin problems.

Try: Trilogy Rosehip Oil [$19.99], Tarte Maracuja Oil [available from Sephora Sydney]

7// Mask It

Using face masks is another tip I recommend for extra skin TLC. Whether you need to give your skin an extra deep clean and draw out all the impurities or give it an extra hit of hydration masks are perfect because they are a super quick fix (and also great for pampering yourself!). Masks come in all sorts of different forms such as clay masks which are great for getting rid of stubborn blackheads, sheet masks which make you look like a ghost but are fantastic for a hit of moisture as well as masks which apply just like a moisturiser but sink deep into the skin.

Try: Palmer's Cocoa Butter Purifying Enzyme Mask [$9.99], Bioderma Sensibo Soothing Mask [$39.99], Lonvitalite Face Masks

8// Blemish Busters

If sex-ed in school wasn't already completely insufficient I also wish they'd told me that you continue to get pimples even after puberty. In fact I didn't struggle with breakouts until about a year ago. I've learned the hard way that squeezing and picking at your spots leads to scarring and stubborn pigmentation. Put a spot treatment on instead - I know there's a big temptation to pop! - and breakouts will disappear much faster and you won't be left with any unpleasant reminders either.

Try: Mario Badescu Drying Lotion [$22.00]

9// Protect

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world and the majority of skin cancers in Australia are caused by exposure to UV radiation in sunlight.* The best way to protect your skin is by wearing SPF daily. Even if your foundation has an SPF in it, its always a good idea to get into the habit of applying sunscreen underneath your makeup everyday - and of course don't forget about the rest of your body! Wearing a hat and sunglasses outdoors is also an easy way to protect the sensitive skin on your face.

Try: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Face Suncreen Lotion SPF 50+ [$16.99]

10// Keep Hydrated!

A huge factor to the way our skin looks is how healthy our bodies are overall. I know as soon as I'm fatigued or sick, my skin takes on a really pale and sallow look. Dehydration often leads to skin that is dull and dry and you can often notice this on your lips and around your mouth first.

Try: Drinking more water - duh!

I know that taking all these steps may seem excessive, however, crucial to the way your makeup looks is the condition of your skin. Spending time and money on makeup and not also taking care of your skin doesn't really make sense. Maintaining your skin is also going to make sure you get the most out of the products you put on top of it!

Please note I'm not a skincare expert but have compiled these tips after trying a lot of different skincare products and evidence from my own experience. As I have mentioned above, there are different skin types that are going to react differently to different products or may need more TLC than others. For reference I have oily skin.

xx Catherine

Follow me!

Bloglovin' 

Instagram @_cat.mac

Twitter @cathsintents

Youtube

* Information provided by the Cancer Council Australia. Learn more here.

Empties - What I'm Throwing Out #3

I know you all just love looking at my rubbish! Here are some reviews of products that I'm throwing out because a) they are awesome and I've used them all up OR b) they were really crap and I didn't want them cluttering up my life.

Makeup

All my makeup empties this round are some of my everyday essentials. The Benefit Gimme Brow [$35.00] is the perfect brow gel and definitely one of my must-have products. I've already got another on the go! Similarly, I've finished up my ultimate fave, HG mascara the Lancôme Hypnôse [$52.00]. I would 100% repurchase this until the end of time but I have so many mascaras open at the moment, including a few high end ones so I'll have to wait to pick this one up. Until we meet again! I've also finished up my other fave mascara, Maybelline The Falsies [$19.95]. Thankfully the price tag on this mascara isn't as scary so I've already got another one on the go. Finally, I'm chucking out a Maybelline Fit Me Concealer [$14.95] in '15 Fair'. This is not completely finished but I already have another one on the go and I'm pretty sure I shared this with like three people during revue so I figure I can put this little bottle of bacteria in the bin.

Haircare

I've finished up a few shampoo/conditioner bottles which is an achievement for me because I probably have a total of 10 hairs. Firstly, from the Schwarzkopf Essence Ultime range the Diamond Colour Shampoo and Conditioner [$14.99]. I did really enjoy these products! I get my hair coloured quite regularly and I have to say these absolutely made a difference in maintaining the health and colour in my 10 dried, bleach hairs. I also finished the Aveda Smooth Infusion Conditioner [$39.00]. I was given this by a family member and when I went to put in a link I realised it is $39!? I definitely don't remember it making my hair THAT soft.

Skincare

A HEAP of skincare empties this round! Let's start with my fave, the St Ive's Blemish Control Apricot Scrub [$9.99] is amazing for oil control and exfoliates without feeling like you're using sand paper on your face. I've got my whole family hooked so this will definitely be repurchased. Another staple in my skincare routine, the Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water [$11.99] is such an amazing multipurpose product and I've already picked up another bottle. Although I've been converted to micellar water for makeup removal I've still got an empty packet of cleansing wipes which I like to keep handy when doing swatches etc. These Lacura ones from Aldi are super cheap and do the job.The Simple Kind to Skin Hydrating Moisturiser [$3.99] is my everyday moisturiser and I've never tried anything that my skin just drinks up! A little travel size is being thrown out. The Rexona Clinical Protection Deodorant [$14.79] is one of my favourite new discoveries and since finishing my first bottle I can't imagine being without it. It has been an absolute saviour and I 100% recommend for anyone who finds that regular strength deodorant does practically nothing.

I've also finished up some other random skincare products. I've posted about the Glow Girl Buttery Salt Scrub [$12.95] before and I absolutely loved it! A gorgeous smelling scrub and the best I've found for those really struggling with stubborn dry, flaky skin. The So White Shower Gel from Lush was another body product I really enjoyed. I know this is a Christmas limited edition but the smell was amazing and I'll definitely consider buying it again at Christmas time. I also finished the Olive Branch Shower Gel [$7.95] which I also enjoyed but probably won't repurchase. Two little hand creams are also getting tossed. The OPI Avo Juice Ginger Lily Hand Lotion smelt beautiful but didn't really do much for my chronically dry hands. On the other hand I definitely shed a tear when I finished up this little sample pot of Camille Beckman Glycerin Hand Therapy [$21.95]. The most moisturising hand cream I've ever used and the 'Tuscan Honey' scent is mouth watering. I will definitely be purchasing a full size.

What's been culled...

These are the products that I couldn't hold onto any longer because they are so terrible. Firstly, the NYX Butter Lipstick in 'Hubba Bubba'. I have never had a good experience with NYX lipsticks, every single one I've tried I have ended up giving away or throwing out. I didn't even want to give this one away because I don't know anyone who would want to wear such an awful colour. It also goes on really patchy and has officially turned me off from ever trying another lipstick from NYX. Next is the So Susan Flutter Mascara and anyone who got it in their Violet Box mid 2014 will know this is one of the biggest fails of a product ever. Another subscription box fail is the Australis Lip & Cheek Combo which smells funny, lacks pigmentation and is difficult to blend out - definitely one to skip from the Australis stand. Finally, this BYS 'Pot of Gold' Glitter Polish has gone lumpy and impossible to apply, time to go!

...and that's everything that's going into the bin!

xx Catherine

Follow me!

Bloglovin' 

Instagram @_cat.mac

Twitter @cathsintents

Youtube