Hauls - Thru The Eye Of My Instagram!

I seem to have become a little bit of a shopaholic as of lately so thought I'd do a post on my recent (last 12 weeks) 'hauls'. Some things I would've already talked about but I quite enjoy looking at what others have brought so here's a collective haul with a variety of makeup, skincare and a few fashion items. Photos are from my Instagram as I tend to document my 'unboxing' moment so all tend to be a first impression quick snap instead of a more carefully arranged 'blog photo'.

Beauty Joint  

Starting from about 12 weeks ago, I made a purchase from Beauty Joint. I really wanted to get the Milani Baked Blush in Luminoso so snuck a few other items in my order. I can't say I'm a big fan of the Rimmel Match Perfection, I found it oxidised too much on me. Also the Elf HD Undereye Setting Powder didn't really do much for me and had a bit too much of a shimmer for my liking. I love the blush of course and the gold Sally Hansen polish is awesome! It dries matte and is so thick and opaque. The other 2 polishes are a little too sheer and streaky though and require too many coats for my patience! 

MAC 

Next I made a MAC order direct from MAC USA. I used shipito postage service to forward it to me. I won't go into detail as I've done a review on the lipsticks and Mineral Skinfinish elsewhere but I really do like the Pro Longwear Concealer. The strobe cream is nice but severely overpriced in my opinion. I feel I can get the same results from using L'oreal Lumi Magique primer.

Feel Unique 

A few months back I found that Feel Unique stocked Aussie and was so stoked to find they would ship it to NZ. So after trying it I had to return and stock up. I'm currently using the 'Shine' formula, while being very nice it's not quite as nice as the 'Miracle' formula, nor does it smell as good. 

Showpo

Ok, please excuse these silly pictures, like I said, this post is going to be like a unboxing/first impression type of thing straight from my Instagram. I pretty much just threw these items on and snapped away. I grabbed these 2 items off Showpo, they're still online if your interested. The pants are the Motorcycle Jeggings and are super comfy and pretty badass if you ask me. The coat is ridiculous but sooo cuddly! It's the called the Hoodwinked cardi. Perfect for winter, either dressed up or down. I also grabbed a few other pieces like a cardi that is no longer available and a dress that I had to return. I just used my store credit from that dress last night so am excited to receive my next purchase. Delivery is always really quick from Showpo, I predict it to come before the next weekend.

Farmers and Countdown

It's not often I buy makeup in store but I was so excited to find Farmers had Revlon Colorburst Matte Balms that I had to get in there. I've reviewed this already so won't go into it. This was also around the same time Wayne Goss released a video about powder before foundation technique (I'm sure everyone knows what I'm talking about!) so since I didn't own a translucent powder I grabbed some off the Australis stand. I really liked the technique but it really does depend on your foundation formula. Also Collection a UK brand made it's way into Countdown supermarkets so I had to grab a concealer! It's fantastic! The nail polish from Collection is also very nice and is looking very pretty on my toes as we speak ;)

NYX Lip Butter Lipsticks from Urban Outfitters

I've done a review and swatch on these so won't get into it again. I went crazy on Urban Outfitters and brought 9!  

Makeup Geek eyeshadows

These also have been posted and swatched (here and here)so won't get into it again, but to be a true haul of the last 12 weeks I feel they should be included! I love my MUG shadows (keep an eye out for a future post that will be a swatch on 4 of the new shades just released! I've just placed an order).

Chi Chi and Frank

I've talked plenty about Chi Chi and you can see swatches of all the above products in this post. But I took advantage of Chi Chi relaunching their site and offering a 20% (from memory) discount. It arrived in the cutest pink box. I also reordered some Frank which arrived on the same day. I love this stuff, you can see a review here.

Farmers and The Body Shop 

Once again I somehow drifted into Farmers and made a few sneaky buys. More Chi Chi and an Australis lippy (swatched here). The Chi Chi perfume is really fruity which I love. It's long lasting and is great for an everyday fragrance. I also was in The Body Shop and left with a vanilla body mist which I like to spritze at night before bed. 

Beauty Review mascara trial 'Save or Splurge'

So while not an actual purchase I was lucky enough to get to trial these mascara for a fantastic NZ site Beauty Review. If your a kiwi and not part of this awesome community get over there! It's a place where you can review products, chat in an active forum full of like minded and sweet ladies and also have an opportunity to be sent full size products which in return you give an honest review on their site. This particular trial was a 'Save or Splurge' scenario with a cheap $3 mascara versus a Lancôme mascara (NZ$60). You can find the results here.

Beauty Review prize pack

While still talking of Beauty Review! I was extremely lucky to have won a Nivea Gift pack from them. All I did was fill out a super quick and simple survey about Nivea and was lucky enough to win  and they sent me this generous gift!

Eco Tan and Beginning Boutique

I am madly missing summer and feel like I'm already looking a little pale for my liking. I feel better if I have a little colour so ordered some Eco Tan Winter Skin Gradual Tan . So far i'm liking it, it gives quite a bit of colour. I don't feel it moisturizers quite as much as I need so I alternate days with another plain moisturizer. 

Beginning Boutique

I also did a sneaky order from Beginning Boutique. I was obviously craving the colour red. The top is called Lock Out Long Sleeve Top and has a few sizes left at the moment. It's quite sheer and super comfy. The skirt is called Cable Skirt Burgundy, it's available in a few different colours and is still available online (and in other various Australian boutique stores) it is quite short but I imagine I'll wear this with some ankle boots in winter.

Beauty Review Beauty Vault

Once again Beauty Review! I was extremely spoilt in the last 3 weeks by them! I didn't mention that part of being a member is the opportunity to earn points, these points are gathered by being active, even a post on the forum will give you a couple. These points can give you a status which if you are active can then promote you from 'apprentice' to Expert. Then there is an opportunity to become a 'Hero' which is available to 40 members. There are also 3 spots available for a 'Superhero' these status's open up the opportunity to access a 'Vault' which is available a few times a year. In the Beauty Vault you can use your points to purchase products. Recently there was one which I was able to grab a few things from (it's insanely exciting as there are limited quantities) You only pay for postage. I grabbed the above products, I'm in love with the Elizabeth Arden mask peel. It leaves your skin super hydrated and smooth. I also managed to get this Taylor Swift Wonderstruck fragrance, it's very pretty and light.

Candle Crush candles and melts

I have raved about Candle Crush many times but last week the Alexander the Grape was the fragrance of the week, I only realized on Sunday so quickly placed an order. It smells like Hubba Bubba grape bubblegum! I love it! I also grabbed 2 melts of scents I hadn't tried, the Lime is insanely good, very citrusy. 

Jessup Brushes from Ebay

I have been hearing so much about 'eBay brushes' so I thought 'why not?' and grabbed a Jessup set. They were approximately NZD$20 and had free shipping. They arrived in about 2 weeks. I received these on Thursday, I washed them straight away (they had quite a strong chemical smell which washed away). I used them for the first time yesterday and so far I'm really really impressed! 

iHerb

Lastly I received a parcel yesterday from iHerb. I used the skincare last night for the first time and I'm really loving them. The Queen Helene Mint Julep mask is so affordable and is very comparable to GlamGlow. The Night Gel is also really good going by my first impression. I awoke to such nice soft moisturized skin! You can get a discount using this link or code LZC872 I think this entitles you to $10 off your first order if you spend $40, under $40 is $5 or something like that! Sorry for being vague but it is legit. I've always had great service from iHerb. Their shipping is really affordable and super quick. I placed the above order on a Sunday and received it on the following Friday. 

So I hope this was somewhat interesting! I am always curious at what others buy so thought this maybe an ok post. 

I hope your all having a lovely day! 

Cat :)  

How I Clean My Makeup Brushes

I despise dirty makeup brushes! Unless it's my blush brush or powder brush I don't reuse them. Depending on how much makeup I've worn in a week I usually do a deep cleanse wash weekly to fortnightly. I keep it really really basic using only baby shampoo and warm water.

I'm not brand specific with the shampoo. I've had no issues with my brushes so consider this a suitable way to wash them! 

I start by pouring shampoo into a dish.

I then wet the bristles with warm water.

I then dip the bristles in the shampoo.

I then work the bristles into my palm and rubbing along my fingers to really work into the bristles.

I then rinse in warm water till the shampoo is gone. I squeeze any excess water out.

Don't let water go higher then where my thumb is.

Whenever cleaning brushes never let water go higher then the steel part. If it does water can get into the brush and destroy the glue causing the bristles to fall out. 

I dry my brushes dancing down onto a towel. The eye brushes I lie down on an angle. If I was to lean them against the wall the shape gets distorted. Usually these dry in a few hours. I remove them as soon as possible as I don't want them resting on a damp towel as this could cause mildew and bacteria. Ideally a windowsill could be used where the bristles can airdry. Unfortunately I don't have a suitable windowsill :( 

So this is probably very basic knowledge and technique for most but I thought I'd share the way I deal with this tedious job. The quicker the better in my opinion and baby shampoo is so easily accessible and affordable. If you felt your brushes needed some conditioning (I haven't personally needed to do this) you could use olive oil or something like that. I have a range of brands, Sigma, Sedona Lace and Real Techniques and this method has caused no harm. 

I hope you are all having a great day :)

Cat 

My Skincare Routine

Au Natural! 

I thought I'd change it up and talk a little about my skincare. I spend a lot of my time makeup free and am very strict on my routine. I am 30 years old and I have normal skin that tends to be more on the dry side in the colder months, so taking all this into account I buy different types of products depending on the season. The majority of my routine is at night before I go to bed. At the moment it is coming into the colder months but I'm still using most of my summer products. I'm currently researching new products but as of right now this is my routine.

Night:

I always shower at night, I may also shower in the morning but without fail I will go to bed freshly showered. So because of this I'm guaranteed to never go to bed with makeup on and my skin is always clean. My belief is that if you go to bed with cleansed and moisturised skin it gives your skin it's time to regenerate while you sleep. 

I start by removing my eye makeup with coconut oil and cotton wool.

Cotton wool balls and Coconut Oil

I keep my coconut oil in a jar on my bathroom counter. I warm a small amount in my palm and gently rub it over my eye area. It melts all the liner and mascara which I then wipe away with the cotton wool. It is so gentle and is also great for your lashes. I also use a bit of oil on my lashes later on with my eye cream to help keep my lashes strong. This oil also makes removing waterproof mascara easy. I'll never buy makeup remover again. 

I then jump in the shower where I cleanse my face.

Michael Todd Honey & Oat Gentle Deep Pore Cleanser

I use Michael Todd Honey And Oat Gentle Deep Pore Cleanser. It is by far the best cleanser I have ever used. I have repurchased this 4 times and have been using this for over a year now. For me it gives a perfect cleanse without stripping my skin. One pump is the perfect amount and it's gel consistency semi foams on my skin. If I have worn heavy makeup I will double cleanse. This contains no sulfates and its super gentle around the eye area too. It does smell like honey which I personally enjoy.

Once out of the shower I continue my routine with a toner.

Michael Todd Cranberry Antiox Toner

Currently I'm using Michael Todd Cranberry Antiox Hydrating Anti Aging Toner. It's a nice toner that helps keep my skin balanced. This is probably my favourite toner I have ever used. But in saying that its one step that I often miss if i'm feeling lazy!

Next I use an eye cream.

Moreish Eye Cream

Currently I'm using Moreish Eye Cream. I really like this one, it makes my eye area feel firmer and very hydrated. I do despise packaging like this though, I never know how much product I have! The pump is ok though and doesn't pump too much out. As mentioned sometimes I will use a little coconut oil on my lashes as well. 

If I've been dealing with any spots and pigmentation I've been using: 

Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution

Kiehl's Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution. It's severely overpriced and other then a slightly clearer complexion I wouldn't recommend it personally. It may work for some but I expected more from it for the price.

Next I hydrate.

The Jojoba Company's Jojoba Oil

The Jojoba Company's Jojoba Oil is great for your skin, nails and hair, its super hydrating and sinks in beautifully. I use this on my throat and decolletage area mainly.

Moreish Night Cream

Moreish Night Cream is what I'm using at the moment. But I am on the look out for a new one as this one is a little too heavy for my liking. I originally tried a sample of this and liked it but this new one is different somehow... have you ever had that before??

If I have a spot this is what I am currently using:

The Body Shop Tea Tree Blemish Gel

I've been using The Body Shop Tea Tree Blemish Gel. While not a quick fix this reduces the time any spots hang around. It dries them out while not upsetting the skin. 

So this is what I do on an average night but twice a week I will do something slightly different. After cleansing in the shower I will then add this extra step:

Michael Todd Tropical Fruit Scrub, Michael Todd Jojoba Charcoal Scrub and the Olay Cleansing Brush.

Twice a week I've been using the Olay Cleansing Brush with either my Michael Todd Tropical Scrub or the Jojoba Charcoal Facial Scrub. I prefer the Tropical Scrub but it's running low so have been working in the Jojoba Scrub instead. The Jojoba is annoying as it stains the brush (but washes off with baby shampoo). This brush is seriously good and I love using it. My skin has improved a lot with it and I look forward to my twice a week scrub! While these scrubs appear more heavy duty then the product that actually came with the cleansing brush I have found them to be more effective and not too harsh at all. I personally didn't like the product that came with the brush.

Another few things I work into my routine depending on necessity are

Lush Mint Julips Lip Scrub

Lush Lip Scrub in Mint Julips. This is a sugar scrub that is great at exfoliating your lips. 

And of course afterwards I'll need a balm 

Blistex Lip Conditioning Balm and Nivea Lip Butter Vanilla & Macadamia 

Either Blistex or Nivea Lip Butter does the job. This is the very last thing I put on before bed. I'm not loyal to any balm, I do prefer a scented one but the main thing is that it hydrates!

I also do masks but am currently on a mad search for one. I've been using up my samples and don't have an actual staple product at the moment. 

Morning 

Because of the care I take at night, and the fact I can get dry skin I don't use a cleanser in the morning. I know a lot wouldn't think this not wise but my skin only needs a good splash of water in the morning. I usually get up, have a coffee then brush my teeth and splash my face. 

I then apply a day cream. 

L'Oreal Youth Code Day Cream with SPF 30

I have been using L'oreal Youth Code which has a SPF 30. I like this product but it's nothing flash. It merely does the job and doesn't break me out! The SPF and its easy accessibility is what I really like. On my no makeup days I will reapply this throughout the day if need be so I don't want to be going through something super expensive. 

If I'm outside a lot extra sunscreen is a must.

Oasis Sun SPF 30 Healthy Face & Body Sunscreen

Oasis Sun SPF30 was recommended to me and it's a lovely non greasy sunscreen. It works well with my makeup and doesn't cause any dramas on my skin. 

And of course skincare isn't just for the face, you should care for all your skin. So I use the following products every week.

Body care products.

I use St Ives Coconut Milk & Orchid Extract body moisturiser daily all over. It absorbs quickly and smells awesome! Every week I will use Frank coffee scrub. This product is amazing!! See my review. I also smother my hands nightly with hand cream. I am currently using The Body Shops Hemp Cream and O.P.I Avojuice. If my skin isn't feeling flash even after this I will use coconut oil, it takes longer to absorb but it leaves my skin lovely. I'll also use the oil on my nails. It's great for your cuticles. I also spritz The Body Shop Vanilla Body Mist afterwards to finish it all off. 

With winter coming I occasionally like to fake tan. It's not something I do often as I'm a bit lazy but this is what I use when I want a full tan.  

Million Dollar Tan

My favourite is Million Dollar Tan. I don't recommend the scrub as Frank is so much better but the spray tan is awesome. I'm not the best at applying but I've not had any problems with this product which amazes me! 

I do really like gradual tan products but as of right now I don't have one in my routine. 

I hope this wasn't too long! I feel it's a simple routine but my skin really does thrive off routine. I also haven't mentioned any facial wipes in here as I do not use them as part of my 'skincare' regime. The only place I have for them is to remove a lipstick or to freshen up on a hot day. And generally I like either Swissper Spa towelettes (Mango or Pomegranate scented) or baby wipes!

I hope you are all having a great day :)

Cat

MAC Lipstick Review

MAC lipsticks including a Supreme Sheen Lipstick

I am very very late to the MAC lipstick train. I honestly thought they were just a hyped up product based all on a brand name. But with my latest craze into lipsticks I thought my collection not complete without at least one. Plus I really wanted to try out Shipito and what better way then an order made direct to MAC. In New Zealand a MAC lipstick retails for around $40 whereas buying direct your looking at USD$16. 

MAC haul!

I ended up buying 5 lipsticks, a travel size Strobe Cream, Mineralize Skinfinish in Soft n Gentle and 2 Pro Longwear concealers and postage only cost me USD$15 with Shipito. The shipping to my Shipito address was free so that fee was for Shipito to send it to me. It was all completed in about 2 weeks from when I placed my order. Fantastic! 

So back to the lipsticks! I have Impressive, Twig, Girl About Town and Ruby Woo. I had also ordered Creme Cup but it wasn't really right for me so I passed it on to my sister. 

Swatch of Impressive

Impressive is a Sheen Supreme Lipstick which is super hydrating, it's not very long lasting but I love it for an easy lip colour for during the day. It's easy to apply and is pretty much like a coloured lip balm in my opinion. While being USD$17 I think it's over priced and wouldn't purchase another but nevertheless this is my most used out of the 4.

Impressive (the lipstick, not the photo lol)

Twig 

Twig is a Satin finish lipstick. It is quite a dark 'mature' shade. It's a brown pink. The formula is very long lasting.

Twig

Girl About Town

Girl About Town is a Amplified formula. I love this one to bits! It's bright and pigmented. It glides on easily and is long lasting. It's my favourite.

Girl About Town

Ruby Woo

Finally I have Ruby Woo which is a Matte formula. The colour is a blue red and is absolutely gorgeous! But the formula is so very dry! It feels terrible to apply, it drags across your lips. But once on its long lasting and doesn't settle in the lines of your lips. I have a love/hate with this one! 

Ruby Woo

I'm really glad I finally gave MAC a go, they are worth the hype. It's super overwhelming picking out colours from the huge selection. I recommend googling the colours to see people's swatches. It helps so much! I have already returned to the MAC site and have a cart full of more lipstick shades. I might toddle over there now and add to my collection ;)

I hope your all having a great day 

Cat