From this month onwards, Clinique is running a promotion at their in store counters. Pop in for a free consultation + a free 2 week sample of their best selling Clinique Repairwear Laser Focus Wrinkle Correcting Serum. Return 2 weeks later for another 2 week free sample.
The 2 x free samples equates to a full size 30ml product valued at RRP AUD$72!! This award winning serum is a must try if you have wrinkles, stress, dullness concern with your skin. Perfect to use around the face and eye area too. I too will be visiting the counter to get my free sample and embark on the Repairwear Laser Focus journey!
For the longest time I’ve heard people raving about how much they love Clinique High Impact Mascara. I get that it helped to lengthen my lashes but I wasn’t that crazy about it. Recently, Clinique released the Clinique High Impact Extreme Volume Mascara.
Combining both the lengthening and volumizing properties; Clinique has been running campaigns heavily to promote this one-step mascara. What I really like about this brush is that despite it being this large, it reaches into all my lashes from roots to tips effectively and combing/coating each lashes as we go.
Formula wise, it is moisturising never drying or leaving my lashes crunchy looking. As I always curl my lashes prior to applying mascara, I did not suffer from any midday lash drooping and I love how easy and efficiently the mascara comes off at the end of the day with some warm water and a cotton pad.
You will dig this mascara if you love their previous version – Clinique High Impact Mascara. You’ll also dig this if you love the fuller lashes look (who doesn’t?), voluminous lashes while still looking naturally glam. This is also safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
RRP AUD$38
Available on Clinique counters now
For your face:
Say hello to Prestige Cosmetics’ brand spanking new Total Intensity Eyeshadow. Available in 8 shades with RRP AUD$18.99 each, these eye shadows can be used both wet and dry. Texture wise, these eyeshadow are smooth, and the colour pay off is medium to high pigment. The finish is matte with a metallic sheen to most of the eyeshadows (with one that comes with a shimmery finish) and is long lasting (I do use eyeshadow primer) with no smudging issues.
Swatches from left to right: #Addiction, #Crave, #Spellbound, #Bewitched
Swatches from left to right: #Hypnotized, #Hocus Pocus, #Obsession, #Black Magic
Next, we have Fixaderm (RRP AUD$14.95 (30ml)), your natural solution to everyday skin repair. You can use this on dry skin, acne, cuts, scratches, minor burns, bites, strings, chafing, scarring, stretchmarks, food and hand care. Basically it’s an unique blend of natural oil to help promote healthy skin cell. The 5 active oils in this are – Calendula, Lavender, Patchouli, Rosehip and Tea Tree. In addition, there are a blend of excipient oils like Almond, Camellia, Jojoba, Evening Primrose, Niaouli and Rosewood.
I love using this on dry bits on my body and pimple scarring to help heal my skin just that bit quicker. Alternatively, you can add a few drops to your body moisturiser for an intense hydration boosting. Made in Australia and you can get this online here.
Remember the good ol trusty Clinique Moisture Surge? Clinique recently launched the intense version - Clinique Moisture Surge Intense RRP AUD$60. Just as good with the previous formula, this one is perfect for very dry to dry combination skin to help lock in moisture in skin.
This oil free rich cream-gel delivers moisture in skin and help to fortify and repair skin barrier. Since I have oily combination skin, I use this predominately at night and to rehydrate my skin overnight. You can also use this as a 5 minutes mask to moisturise skin.
For your skin:
Garnier recently released two body intensive body gel-lotion to promote healthy, moisturised skin for your body at an affordable price of RRP AUD$6.95 for 400ml. Garnier Body Intensive 7 Days Gel-Lotion with Peach Extract and Garnier Body Intensive 7 Days Gel-Lotion with Grape Extract are both fragranced free formula and is suitable for sensitive skin too. I find this moisturiser perfect for those who hate the feeling of moisturiser on their skin but also suffer from dry itchy skin.
For your nails:
Revitanail Conditioning Remover Wipes (RRP AUD$5.95) & Revitanail Precision Corrector (RRP AUD$12.95) are the new addition to Revitanail nail care. Both of these are designed to simplify your life by helping you to make mundane tasks easier and more efficient. The Conditioning Remover Wipes are easy to use and removes nail polishes effectively. I recommend to bring this with you on your holiday to remove chipped nails. This is hydrating, acetone free and great on sensitive nails & cuticles.
As for the Precision Corrector, this is also great to remove annoying nail polish smudges, mistakes and to take off those excess nail polishes on the side of nails. It also comes with replaceable tips and cuticle conditioning formula.
For skin
Mary Kay has been available in Australia since 1971 and have since build a strong customer base via word of mouth. Good news is that they are now online and has just recently launched their new Botanical Effects collection; a collection for ladies who want simple steps and a complete routine for their skin type.
Botanical Effects collection (RRP AUD$120) comes in cleanser, freshen toner, moisturiser and mask catering needs for dry, normal and oily skin. Since I have oily/combination skin I went with the oily/sensitive skin range that is free from alcohol, fragrance and synthetic dyes. They are non comedogenic by clarifying and treating skin without further provoking skin. Loving how lightweight the moisturiser is and it doesn’t leave any greasy residue.
Skinvitals Hydraflex New Generation Cosmeceutical Masks Ranging from Hydraflex masks targeted for specific areas of the face/body which includes 3D face, neck/decollete, eyes and hands. Retailing at a very reasonable price point of RRP AUD$14.99 each, I am find these masks very handy for specific treatments. Be sure to check out the Hydraflex 3D Face mask that loops over the ears and also targets the neck area. It is a shame that the mask didn’t fit my face but I did enjoyed the results this mask provided. Instantly tightens my skin and my fine lines were less visible.
Q Silica Paw Paw Rescue Ointment (RRP AUD$8.95), this all natural multipurpose balm helps to soothe dryness on skin or on lips. I use this mostly on my lips and cuticles as they are the driest points on my body. With its natural fermented paw paw extract and soothing base of mineral silica, shea butter, beeswax, macadamia oil and calendula extract; this rich balm works by sealing in the moisture and protect skin from drying out.
Highly recommend this as a night treatment by applying a thick layer before bed and gently exfoliate lips with a wet toothbrush in the morning for baby smooth lips.
For makeup
When Clinique launched their Superbalanced Makeup (foundation), it quickly became a favourite amongst everyone I knew. The hardworking people with lab coats at Clinique decided to bring forth a new addition to the Superbalanced range – the Clinique Superbalanced Power Bronzer (RRP AUD$65). A lightweight and oil-free mineral powder bronzer that doubles as an oil absorbing make up product, suitable for all skin types and is especially great for combination/oily skin.
The smart packing also helps to prevent messy bronzer spilling everywhere, so all you need to do is turn grinder clockwise and a fresh dose of bronzing loose powder appears. Colour wise, the pigment is quite subtle and doesn’t have shimmer (my fav!) in it so it is great to use as a contouring product too! Love it.
Say hello to Estee Lauder Eyeshadow Palette in #Bronze Sands (RRP AUD$90). I have always been a big fan of EL eye shadow palettes, they seem to complement my skin tone very well, carries really good pigments and best of all they always come in fail proof shades.
The #Bronze Sands eyeshadow palette is no different. The formula is silky smooth, palette is pretty, shadows are pigmented and the finish is long lasting. You seriously can’t fault Estee Lauder Eyeshadow Palettes.
For hair
Tigi Catwalk Your Highness Volume Collection Root Boost Spray (RRP AUD$29.95) delivers lift and volume at the roots. Anything that promises lift and volume at the roots, will always be my weakness as I am forever out there hunting for the latest and newest technology to lift my limp, fine hair.
This one sprays fine mist foam onto the roots (only over damp hair) and massage well for lift & volume and blow dry according to your needs. Be sure to massage well because if you spray too much mist foam in one area of your hair and once dried, it will become stiff and you don’t want that. In terms of strength, this really delivers lift and volume while thickening hair without the heavy feeling.
Its official, I have a love hate relationship with dry shampoo. I love how they can somewhat cleanse my hair, reduce oiliness and make them look presentable in no time. I do however hate that not many shampoo in the market could serve me when I had darker hair and now that I have lighter hair, normal dry shampoo makes me look like I have dandruff issue. No matter how much I shake, comb and shake it off, the white powder residue JUST KEEPS COMING back. I have put this down to having way too oily hair hence the white dandruff looking flaky issue.
Bastiste Dry Shampoo recently launched the XXL Wild (RRP AUD$9.95) and Volume (RRP AUD$12.95) dry shampoos. Both of which does what it promises – cleaner, fresher, floral scented hair minus the grease which I like my hair to be 24/7. I have experimented in spraying the dry shampoo far away, close by, just underneath my top layer of hair, changing different type of combs, blow my hair with a hairdryer, essentially everything but seems to find the annoying white flakes to be unbeatable. Let me know if you do have a trick up your sleeves.
For body
Manicare Glambody Avant-Garde Collection Body Tattoo (RRP AUD$9.95) is the accessories for your skin with these dazzling designer inspired velvet and crystal body tattoo. This famous one was also recently spotted on Leighton Meester. Love it.
Sportsgirl recently launched their first ever fragrance collection also known as “Makes Scents”. This new collection is available in 4 different scents in a slim travel bottle design inspired by test tubes. Each scent is unique, energetic and is of playful nature. At RRP AUD$9.95, this collection is extremely affordable and it’s hard to miss the perfumes which are wrapped in graphic prints matching to the fragrance notes.
I am not much of a drinker these days but couldn’t help but noticed a drink that stands out – espresso martini seems to be a crowd favourite amongst both males and females. From the famous coffee house illy, they have recently released the illyquore, perfect for DIY-ing your own espresso martini at home (just add ice, shake & serve) or having it cold with ice and serve.
The options are endless, you just need to get creative with it.
Clinique Even Better Skin Tone Correcting Lotion SPF 15
RRP AUD$90
I remember a couple of years ago; Clinique launched the Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector (serum) and a day cream to match. One I was very grateful for the launch because at that time, there was little to no skincare line in the market dedicated to brighter skin tone. Fast forward couple of years now, Clinique being such a game changer has launched the Clinique Even Better Skin Tone Correcting Lotion SPF 15 and a matching hand cream.
The Clinique Even Better Skin Tone Correcting Lotion SPF 15 is a lightweight version of the cream which makes it suitable for oily to very oily skin type. Works best over Clinique Even Better Clinical Dark Spot Corrector, I love the Clinique Even Better Skin Tone Correcting Lotion SPF 15 better because it is lotion instead of cream making it ideal for my skin type. It protects my skin from dark spot, correct existing ones, control oil production and deliver an overall even appearance.
Texture wise, this oil-free fluid lotion is lightweight, absorbs into skin very quickly and hydrates without any greasiness. The ingredients works by breaking apart surface darkening and exfoliate it for a brighter, radiant finish. This lotion also contains SPF 15, broad spectrum protection covering both UVA/UVB, making it perfect for those who are too lazy to apply a second sunscreen product.
Clinique Even Better Dark Spot Correcting Hand Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 15
RRP AUD$60
Say hello to Clinique’s latest addition to the Even Better collection. This hand cream helps to keep paws well moisturised and to treat hands at the same time. We all know hands are often the first to show signs of ageing anything from dark spots, age spots, discoloration, wrinkles and fine lines can start forming after years of prolong sun exposure. Clinique Even Better Dark Spot Correcting Hand Cream Broad Spectrum SPF 15 helps to promote a smoother and clearer pair of hands.
The UVA/UVB sunscreen protection helps to protect hands from further sun damage and botanicals work to prevent future darkening, leaving hands feeling delicately soft and well moisturised all day long. This generous sized hand cream is great to use during the day and is okay to reapply as often as required.
Both products are now available on Clinique counters
It’s time again for beauty round ups. There’s been quite a few new product launches in Australia and I thought what better way is to cover them and do a round up that covers nails, hair and lips?
For your nails:
This is not new but do look out for multiple award winning Revitanail Nail Strengthener (RRP AUD$29.95). With the increasing interest in shellac and all sorts of crazy nail arts, it is important to ramp up the nail protection route. While you don’t have nail polish on be sure to prep your nails with some nail strengthener to help nurse your nail bed back to health.
For your hair:
When Klorane Dry Shampoo for Oily Hair (RRP AUD$14.95) launched, I swear this was made for me. As you all know I have oily skin and scalp, it irks me to no end as I need to wash my hair every single day to keep it looking clean and fresh. The new dry shampoo is gentle on the scalp, paraben free and helps to absorb excess oil to leave hair fresh and light minus the grease.
While it is not a replacement for your regular shampoo, I find this is a great substitute for the days I can’t be bothered to wash my hair. Be sure to flip your hair over and spray at least 20 cm away and comb through with a fine tooth comb.
For your lips:
Say hello to 8 new shades for Clinique Chubby Sticks (RRP AUD$35). Delivers a sheer hint of colour to the lips and is moisturising enough to keep lips soft and supple. Available in eight new shades including Heaping Hazelnut, Bountiful Blush, Two Ton Tomato, Oversized Orange, Mighty Mimosa, Curved Candy, Pudgy Peony and Voluptuous Violet.
The problem with oily skin is that naturally our pores are slightly enlarged as compared to those with dry skin. Having enlarged pores results to blackheads and annoying white heads from sprouting. Now by default, people have oilier T-zone as compare to the rest of the area on the face even if you have normal skin. This is where the Clinique Pore Refining Solutions Stay Matte Hydrator comes into place.
For those who have oily skin and is acne prone can feel my pain when no matter what you do or what product you use, the skin won’t stop pumping out oil and breaking out for no apparent reason. What this product promises is to control oil level on the skin without drying skin out and delivers hydration in the process. Didn’t think it was possible but this one surely delivered the bill as promised. This has now replaced my day cream step after serum and eye cream application. I don’t use this at night because I don’t need oil regulation at night and much prefer a richer cream.
I love that this moisturiser is oil free, lightweight, doesn’t clog pores and controls oil regulation on my face. It absorbs very quickly so perfect for during the morning rush application and it helps to reduce the look of pores. What is there not to love?
Be sure to complete your skincare routine with a dedicated sunscreen product because it doesn’t contain SPF in it. Always remember, suncare is tres important when it comes to preventing all skin ageing issues.
P.s: One of my all-time favorite blogger (who knows ingredients like no other) highly rates this and calls it “the most clever formulations she has come across for oily/acne prone skin”, “The secrets are two-fold: One, a clever meld of lightly hydrating, silky silicones and denatured alcohol, and two, mica and titanium dioxide, to dry with a matte finish”. You can read her review here.
Available on Clinique counters now
RRP AUD$79
Stockist – 1800 556 948
True to its name, Clinique Superfine Liner for Brows is really an ultra slim liner for brows. In fact, this is one of the slimmest I have tried. No sharpening required, this automatic pencil has this flat-fine tip for precise brush strokes and for a natural finish.
Like all pencils for eye brows, be sure to go slow and gently. Start by filling in sparseness along the brow and work on areas as needed. Use a brush if needed to brush out the brows before and after filling it in to keep hair neat and tidy.
Swatched on a tissue to show the colour intensity on a white background
This is taken after 10 hours of wear, very long lasting I’d say.
As you can see I am going for a natural style, hence all it took was 10 seconds on each brow to fill in the sparseness.
I got this liner for brows when my hair was still light hence I went for a lighter shade #02 soft blonde. Surprisingly after my darker hair episode, this still served its purpose and continued to work for me. I suppose being in the same colour group – brown, it helps to balance out the colour instead of standing out in stark comparison between my hair and brows.
Additional information:
RRP AUD$32
Allergy tested
100% fragrance free
Made in USA
