Violet Box Unboxing: January 2015

While VB were really late this month, once the box as actually shipped it got to me really quickly. They also kept everyone well informed which was appreciated. 

The box is another great box this month with 3 full size items and 2 samples. 

Here is what was in the box:

Distilled Hydrolyzed Silk Treatment Serum. RRP: $36.00 for 5ml
This claims to be a water-based lightweight serum for the lips. It is also formulated with 96% certified organically cultivated ingredients. This is in a little glass brown bottle and I have no idea how much is in it. For a lip product, I would say this is a very generous sample. I have never heard of this brand, and have never used a lip serum before so I'm very excited to give this a go. It smells very clean, almost lemony but not quite. It feels kind of oily but without being greasy if that makes sense. I suppose that is what they mean by 'silk'. We were supposed to get either this product or a different serum. I was lucky enough to get a sample of both, although I have no idea if that is what everyone else got as well or if it's pure luck.

Distilled Restore Treatment Serum. RRP: $36.00 for 15ml
This one claims to be a serum for the skin, nails and cuticles. Again, I have never had a serum for the hands and nails before so once again I'm very excited to try this. I have to use chemicals at work so my hands can get a little mistreated sometimes. This comes in the same packaging as the lip serum and, while it looks lovely it really isn't practical at all. I tried to use some and could barely get any out of the tiny jar. I think I will have to decant this one in order to use it. It smells and looks exactly the same as the lip serum. Other than the ill-thought out packaging, this is a product I'm very keen to try out. I will probably write a separate review on these two once I've given them a good try. 

The Cosmetic Kitchen Raw Chocolate Clay Mask. RRP: $24.95
This is a full size product. You can mix this with water, oil or whatever else you like to turn the powder into a mask. I have already received this in the Dec. LHI bag however I have the Kora White Clay Mask on the go so haven't used it yet. I will be keen to give it a go, although I have heard that it leaves your skin a bit pink so I will probably do it in the evening. Just in case. 

Lonvitalite 24K Active Gold Yulan Eye Mask. RRP: $25.95 (5 pack)
I got one of these. It claims to soothe under-eye bags and blackness and boosts circulation. I still haven't tried the face mask we got in the December bag from this line as I heard bad bad things about it. Apparently more than a few people had allergic reactions so I'm a little nervous to try this. I do have shockingly bad under eye bags and blackness so I will probably risk it. It does say to use this twice per week for best results so I don't think a single use will indicate how well this product works. Having said that, I'm happy to give it a whirl.

Emite Make Up Precision Eye Pencil. RRP: $24.95
This is an off-white eye pencil. It is very soft and glides on easily. It claims to give you 'perfect accuracy when you want to emphasize or create striking makeup'. It also says it's a great way to create perfect lash marks? I don't know if I'm being incredibly naive but how would a pencil this colour do that? If you know please leave a comment and tell me because I am at a loss to explain it. I will most likely use this for the waterline to make my haggard face look a little less tired! I'm very pleased to receive this a I've been meaning to buy a white-ish eye liner for a while and just never got around to it. Mind you, I don't think I'd ever pay this much for one, but I'm just a bit of a tight arse. 

Mellow Cosmetics Blush. RRP: $14.00 for 5g
This is a full sized item also. At first I was a little disappointed because the colour was very skin-like. I ot it in bronze and there was another colour you could get also. I actually really like this colour once it's on the face. I put it over my highlight and together they looked so natural and gave me a healthy glow. It's really soft and blends easily so is really easy to apply. This is a win from me. I love blushes and would never have bought one this colour so I'm really happy to add it to my collection. 

Overall this is an amazing box, and so generous. I can't believe there was 3 full size item  in there. I don't know if I was supposed to get both the serums but they are so interesting I can't wait to try them. I just wish VB would release another type of box so I could get another one. I just don't think there is an equivalent monthly box out there. It's such great value. Let's hope they keep up the good work.

If you'd like to know more about Violet Box, click on the tab on the top of my blog, or go to their website here. 

Did you receive this box?

What did you think?

What was your favourite product?

Note: I paid for this box with my own money and have not been approached by anyone to create this post. All opinions expressed on my blog are my own.

Memebox Superbox #80 Pumpkin Pie: Unboxing and first impressions

Unfortunately, my camera has snuffed it and I can't get the photos off so please forgive the poor photos of the info card, unfortunately this will have to do until I can get my phone sorted.


I really wanted this box when it first came out but didn't manage to get it so when it was restocked in November I snapped it right up!
I have tried most of the items in the box, however only once so this will be more of a first impressions and the reviews will come later (once I've had a good play).
This box was based on the ingredients for Pumpkin Pie and I feel it sticks to that theme very well. All the items in this box are full sized.

What's in the box:

Dearberry Coco's Secret Recipe Pumpkin RRP: $16
This is a wash-off pack (mask) which is supposed to deeply replensh dry skin, and clarify and brighten dull, eneven complexions. The packaging is cute I guess, but not something I would have on display as I think it's better suited to a teenager than a 31 year old such as myself. This product has a fairly indistinguishable, faint and inoffensive smell. It has this amazing thick, spongy texture which is a lot of fun to play with and to apply. It is kind of like putting whipped cream on your face but much thicker, it feels really nice. I didn't really notice any great effect, however I did apply makeup and go to work straight after I used it so I didn't really have a chance to feel my skin. I am certainly looking forward to using this again and will report on how it performs.






Insobeau Multi Complex V-Line Repair Sleeping Mask RRP: $42
The packaging for this one is much better, it's light pink with a chrome lid. Still not a display item for me but much more grown up. Again, the texture of this overnight mask is a lot of fun. If you have ever cooked custard in the microwave from powder you will know that, while it looks like a liquid it's actually quite solid. This cream does a similar thing. This cream looks very runny but is actually firm - like sticking your finger into thick custard. It also smells really lovely and feels nice to put on. I have only used it twice and my skin feels nice and smooth. I haven't noticed any great difference to my skin, however i was already using the Mangchee sleeping mask from the Wine and Cheese box and swapped it out for this one as this one's expiry date is much sooner (June). It also has a great, clean scent which is quite relaxing. I wouldn't think much of  this product if my skin had gotten worse, however it has stayed the same so i'm very glad to have this product. You use this product twice per week so i'm confident i'll be able to get through it before the expiry date.

Enesti Shea Butter Hand Cream Lemon and Verbena RRP: $5
This is a nice refreshing handcream. It has an amazing lemon sherbot smell which I am just obsessed with. It is quite a thick handcream so it does leave some greasy residue but it is certainly not as bad as some I have tried. There isn't too much more I can say about this, it's a fairly standard cream with a lovely scent. I'm certainly glad to have this one and it has been my go-to handcream since I got it.

Tonymoly Gold Black Sugar Mask RRP: $7
Well, my first impression was one of disappointment with this one. It is the first Tonymoly product I've received and after seeing how amazing this brand's packaging can be I found this packaging extrememly boring. Other than that essentially small issue, I am very happy to have this item. It is an exfoliating facial mask which claims to bring suppleness and a healthy glow back to your face. I have used this once to give it a go. It is very thick and feels a bit like smearing grainy honey on your face. It has a really strong scent which to me smelled of brown sugar and soy sauce, needless to say this is not my favourite scent. It did feel great to rub off. Unfortunately I broke the skincare gospel and used this the day after exfoliating so I can't really comment on how it performed. I think i will be writing a full review on this product as I have never owned anything like it. i have to finish off my current exfoliator before I can really dive into this one. I will link the review here once it has been posted.

Enesti Day to Day Rice and milk Foam Cleansor RRP: $14
I haven't opened this product yet as I still have a few to get through first. I haven't had a foaming cleanser since I was 21 and i quite liked that one so i'm keen to give this one a go. It  claims to cleanse away makeup residue and other impurities as well as clarify uneven skintone. I will update this once I have used it.


The Verdict:
Overall this is a fantastic box and i'm so pleased i finally managed to get my hands on it. i will be using every item in this box and have even got a couple of items I either haven't had anthing like before, or i haven't used in a very long time. i'm very much looking forward to really diving in.

Memebox Special #75 Wonder Women: Unboxing and first impressions

I was lucky enough to pick up this box in the recent restock. Unfortunately, my camera has snuffed it and I can't get the photos off so please forgive the poor photos of the info card, unfortunately this will have to do until I can get my phone sorted. 


After having missed two similar boxes, I decided at the last minute to purchase this box and I'm fairly glad that I did. The theme is basically that women are amazing and do a lot and these are products to make life easier - or something like that. The box containes 4 full size items and one sample item (we received 2 samples of the same product).

The box containes:

Clio Gel Presso Waterproof Pastel upper liner in 05 The Groupies RRP: $14
This eyeliner is supposed to be worn above normal eyeliner to provide a contrasting line. It is a deep plumy colour which is neither provides a good contrast to black or brown, nor is it pastel. I don't mind at all however as I'm far more likely to use this than I would a bright and/or pastel colour. I haven't used it yet aside from swatching, however it does appear to be like other gel eyeliner pencils in that it is smooth, creamy and once it dries it doesn't budge. I will certainly be giving this one a go.

Benenet Diamond Illuminator Ampoule RRP: $38
Yay my first ever ampoule! From what I understand, an ampoule is used in place of a serum (correct me if wrong please). I currently have two serums on the go so this one has gone into the cupboard for now. I did test a little bit. the liquid is pearlescent, however it doesn't appear to transfer any luminescence to your skin. The product claims to promote healthy moisturelevels, enhance skins elasticity, and brighten and illuminate skin. I am very excited to use this product and I will update this once i've had a proper go at it.

Vivito Dual Magic Multi Concealer Highlighter RRP: $38
This is a double-ended product with a stick concealor at one end and a liquid highlighter with a doe foot applicator on the other. I have been using this every other day since I got it and am really enjoying it. I have massive dark circles under my eyes so I love trying out products like this one. It seems to do what it should and the concealor is the right colour for me be able to wear it without other makup on.

ProYou Aroma AC Roll On RRP: $12
This is supposed to be a spot treatment for achne prone skin. I have been lucky enough to never suffer from achne, however I do get pimples on my chin fairly regularly. I have one forming right now so have used this one on there today. It is too early to draw any conclusions as yet but I will update this once I've used it a bit more.

Dr Young Pore Syok-Syok Cleansing Gel RRP: $28 for 15ml, we received 2x15ml
I haven't tried this product yet as I am already using a cleanser so I will just quote the card for now and update this once I have used it. I will say that I am fairly excited to get a Dr Young product as I have been lusting after their primer ever since I saw unboxings of the Makeup Edition #1.
Memebox says: "This gel-type cleanser penetrates deep down into pores to remove all excess oil, dirt, impurities, and sebum clogged up inside. . . it's oil free and moisturising as well"


The Verdict:
Given that i bought this box before I had decided to focus on skincare and forego makeup boxes, I'm pretty darn happy. There are actually only 2 makeup items and I am very happy with one of them and will probably get some use out of the other. I am really happy with all 3 of the skincare items too, especially the ampoule. I definitely think this box is worth it. Very happy.

Memebox Special #35 Moisture Surge: Unboxing and First Impressions

I was lucky enough to pick up this box in the recent restock. Unfortunately, my camera has snuffed it and I can't get the photos off so please forgive the poor photos of the info card, unfortunately this will have to do until I can get my phone sorted.


Insobeau Hiaromax Vitimin Stick RRP: $29
This is a kind of moisturising balm for dry areas of skin (face or body). It is a very thick consistency and kind of smells like a very toned down version of deep heat. It's not a nice smell but it does somehow manaage to invigorate me a little so i'm pretty happy with this. I have seen some reviews saying this is waxy, however i'm finding it's a pretty good consistency for me so far. I have only used it a few times, however will try using it more regularly in the future. The packaging is actually reall nice looking. This product so far is a win for me, however it is early days and I will most likely to a seperate review of this one once I've given it a good crack. I will link it here once it's done.

Update: I really enjoy this product. I find it really invigorating. It works really well and feels cool when applied and the smell is quite uplifting. This one is definitely a keeper for me.



Wish Formula Premium Ampoule Mask RRP: $14.00 each
I haven't tried this product yet so I'm just going to write down what the card says and update it with my own opinion once i've used it.
Memebox says: "This miracle Premium Ampoule Mask improves the skin's natural recovery power while it also works to combat wrinkles and deeply nourishes the skin, leaving it moist, supple and radiant."
Weighty claims I'd say, although i'm hardly going to be able to see any difference to my wrinkles with only one mask but it will be interesting to see how 'supple' and 'radiant' my face looks afterwards.

Original Raw Delux Kit Version 3.0 RRP: $60
This contains 3 30ml items. Again, I have yet to try this so I will be writing what the card says and updating once I've given them a go.
BLACK BUBBLE: "An auto bubble system which works when the oxygen transmitter from its formula meets the air and automatically transforms into fine, minute bubbles for cleansing deep into and throughout your face". Right, sounds like a bit of a fancy cleanser, keen to give this a go. Unfortunately I'm flush with cleansers at the moment so this once will have to wait.
CHAN-MOOL PATTING ESSENCE: "Tangly and jelly-like textured, this essence relieves, moisturises, brightens, and tightens up the skin all in one, by creating a protective moisture barrier".
I have never tried a product like this so I am very happy to have recieved it.
WATER BLOCK BLACK JAM: "The black componant extracted from plants and the super hyaluronic acid combine together to create a moisture wall over your skin. A single application will last you up to 48 hours without any further re-hydration". OK, lets call a spade a spade, this is a moisturiser. I will let you know how it performs as such when I give it a go.

Rosemoon Rich 53% Collagen Smart Balm RRP: $47
Woah, pricy. . .
I am really excited to try this as I have heard brilliant things about it. Unfortunately, i have a couple of moisurisers and moisturising masks on the go at the moment so i'll have to wait until I'm done with those before I can give this one a go. I will most likely be doing a seperate post on this one so I'll link it here once it's done.

imface Vio-Xellose Neck Patch RRP: $5
Again I have not tried this one. Memebox says: "Naturally-derived coconut jelly texture, imface's special Bonatical Wrinkle Complx (ooh, capticals. . .) and adenosine omplex all work to treat signs of aging along your neckline". I am a bit of a skeptic when it comes to sheet masks and have yet to be terribly impressed by the effects (if any). I find them to be very inconvenient but I will probably give this one a go eventually and will update this when I do.

Demahouse Aloe vera Moisture mist RRP: $14
Now this is a product I have both tried and love. It's a really fine mist and smells just so fresh and clean. It feels hydrating and is very refreshing, especially in the heat. I've been carrying this baby around with me to give me a boost whenever I need it. I even took it to the gym the other day and was spritzing between songs.

The Verdict:
Overall I think this is a really good box. This is of course an impression only as I haven't even opened many of the products but i have been impressed with the few I have tried. Provided there's nothing horribly wrong with any of the products, I will use all of them so that is a plus. I'm not crazy on the sheet masks but i haven't tried either of these so perhaps they'll convert me, who knows. I will be sure to update this with review links once I've had the opportunity to use the products. In the meantime, have to you gotten this box

The change to come

I've decided not to spend so much time reviewing products/boxes that I'm indifferent about and will instead be doing short reviews/videos on products I either love or hate. They will be short, sweet and, as always honest. I've been really struggling to find spare time at the moment and thought about giving this all up for good, however I thought this was a good alternative. Hopefully it works out. I'm still new to videos so we'll have to see how that goes.

Here is my first one. I did this quite quickly to see how the process worked out, especially since no one is subbed to my channel yet so it's more like a test run to try and get the hang of 'movie maker' and the whole youtube process. Here it is, please give me any comments you might have (constructive criticism is more than welcome but nasty ones are just not helpful).




Here it is: This will be the time-frame of the videos I'll be filming if I do decide to do them. 

Neoday 'Dont Cry, Armpits Perfumed Deodorant Stick

My friend bought the Christmas Box #1 Stress Free Holidays memebox from me but didn't want the deodorant for some reason. A girl from work had recently been raving about these solid stick deordorants and I had actually been meaning to try one so I was more than happy to take it off her hands.

The product is nice and compact and has lovely packaging. When you smell it on the stick it smells quite strong, however once it's on it is actually quite subtle. It's a very pleasant clean kind of smell. It goes on easily and doesn't pull on the skin. It doesn't feel heavy and doesnt have that wet, sticky feeling that normal liquid or spray deodorant does. 

I wore this on an extremely hot day while out in the garden tearing down a shed and, consequently, overheating like crazy. This deodorant worked an absolute treat. I am definitly sold to this sort of deodorant as I cannot stand that wet, sticky feeling of putting on deodorant and I especially hate when you get it on your clothing. In short, I love this product and wish i could get it easily in Australia. Once this one runs out I'll be investing in stick deodorant from now one, I just need to figure out which one to go for.

Did you get this product?

What did you think?

Have you tried a similar product?

Marie Claire The Parcel: Summer Edit Unboxing

Early last week I was very surprised to receive this lovely little Parcel! If you would like more information and links for this product, please see the The Parcel tab.

If you read my post on the the Spring Edit you would know that I wasn't that impressed with the customer service and was going to unsubscribe as soon as I received tracking for this parcel. I didn't and I'm quite glad as I was really impressed with this season's offering. 

The little black box was so packed full of stuff it sent butterflies swirling around in my stomach the second I opened it. 

This season's offering was very skincare based, which is fine by me as I've just signed up for a 12month Violet Box sub so I'm sure I'll have makeup samples coming out the wazoo very soon. 

Nuf chitchat, lets dig in. . .
 

Essie Nail Polish ($16.95) and Top Coat ($17.95). Full Sizes
I received the nail polish in a very very baby pink colour (can't remember the name of the shade and I've already given it away. . .oops). It is absolutely not a shade I would wear but I did try it on one finger and found it to be really really runny. The recipient also said the same thing. I will be keeping the top coat though because I don't have one and no way would I pay close to $20 for a top coat so I'm very grateful to receive it. 
  
Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair Eye, RRP: $94. Sample

please excuse the atrocious photo

This is a really nice eye treatment and I will probably do a full review on it once I've finished it to see if it fulfills all its claims. It is supposed to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, puffiness, dark circles, dryness and uneven skin tone - most of which I have in abundance. It is described as a gel serum. I'd call it more of a gel/cream hybrid. The texture is lovely and it feels really luxurious on the skin. I have only used it a couple of times so I can't really go into more detail than that. It does look really nice on my makeup table though, sorry the photo isn't doing it justice. I would also add that at 5ml this is a very generous sample size. 



John Frieda Luxurious Volume Touchably Full Shampoo and Conditioner ($15.99 ea) and Fine to Full Blow-Out Spray ($16.99)

This is a great little set and we received 44ml each of the shampoo and conditioner and 29ml of the spray. I don't really blow dry my hair but I do straighten it sometimes so I will see how it goes for that. All these products share the same light, clean smell. I've never tried any products from this brand so am very interested to see how they work. 


 
Jergens Ultra Healing Body Moisturiser $5.99 for 100ml, full size
This is a really thick, intense moisturiser. I used it two nights ago after my shower and it was really moisturising. I didn't use moisturiser the next day (even after my shower) and my skin still felt smooth. I really like this, however I do think it's a bit heavy for an all-over moisturiser in summer. I will probably just use it on dry patches, but I would certainly use it in summer. It's also readily available and inexpensive. 
Revlon Age Defying CC Cream $26.95
Correct me if I'm wrong but this looks like a full size item. It is supposed to be a colour correcting cream offering light but buildable coverage. It is in the shade medium which is way too dark for me but I mixed it with my whitening BB cream from the makeup edition memebox which is way too light. The result was a light-medium coverage BC cream that matched my skin and left a dewy, fresh finish. I am really happy with this mixture and it means I can now make use of two products I wouldn't otherwise be able to use. More specifically, I don't really have too much to say about this product. It's a light-coverage cream, just like the others as far as I can tell. It claims to have anti-wrinkle, dehydration and uneven skintone properties so I will let you know if I agree with that when I've been using it for a bit longer. 



Philosophy Purity Made Simple 3-in-1 face and eyes cleanser, $15 for 90ml.
I received a 30ml sample of this product which is very generous for a facial cleaner. This product claims to remove dirt, tone and lightly hydrate and is safe for use around the eyes. It has a very faint, slightly musky smell. I have used it a few times and it removed my makeup very well, granted it was not waterproof makeup (note however that it isn't a makeup remover). I also rubbed my eyes with it to get mascara off and it didn't sting or feel uncomfortable at all. While I still moisturised after using it, it didn't leave my skin feeling tight or dry after use.  I really like this stuff so far and would consider purchasing the full size if I still like it after further use. 
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant, $25 for 50ml
I'm not sure how much this sample is but I'd say it'd be around 15-20ml maybe. I was really excited to try this as I've heard a lot about it. It claims to be a do-it-all balm which soothes, moisturises and protects dry or mildly irritated skin. The description also suggests using it with your foundation to create a dewy glow. This is interesting and I will definitely try it. I did use some over my makeup a couple of days ago on my cheekbones to give them some sheen. It did, ut I'm not sure how long it lasted for. This isn't a 'cream' as such, it has more of a milky, gel-like consistency. It also has a very strong smell that I can't quite place my finger on. On the packaging it states that its fragrance free so whatever the smell is, it must come from the active ingredients themselves. I would believe that as it is almost medical in scent, its not unpleasant, just not a nice or clean kind of smell. Again, with this product I will do a full review once I have a more coherent opinion on it. 

The Verdict
I am so happy with the box. I was beginning to think over the last few days that I wasn't, but having gone through it again for this review I'm back to happy. This has a great range of products in it, most of which I am excited to try and all of which I will use (minus the nail polish but that's just due to the colour). We got 4 full size products and all the samples are a what I would call deluxe sizes. No sachets in sight either. The last box was very makeup heavy so I'm glad to see more skincare in this box, although I'm sure others would disagree. Again, I was happy to see a hair care product (3 really) thrown in as well. I also think that the price range in this box is great, most of the items I would say that I can afford to purchase if I like them. 
Even though I was adamant about ending my subscription to this box, I will be keeping it for at least one more box.   

Did you receive this box?

What did you think?

What's your favourite item?

Note: I have paid for this box with my own money and am not being paid to conduct this review. The opinions stated are my own and should not be taken for anything else.

Memebox Special #53 Wine and Cheese Cosmetics: Unboxing and Review

The Wine and Cheese Memebox was $29 and contains full size items fitting into the theme of wine and cheese based skincare products. This box is by far my favourite of the ones I have received so far. 

 If you'd like to check out Memebox, please click the link at the bottom of the post or check out my Memebox tab which explains what it is and provides links and discount codes.
Note: All prices are in USD

 LadyKin Mangchee Replenishing Hand Cream RRP: $14 for 60ml
This smells incredible. I'm not sure that it smells of mango but is certainly smells tropical. It's not too sweet a smell so I'm really enjoying it. The tube looks huge but it is only about half full. It isn't missing half the product, its just that the packaging is too big. It is a nice thin handcream, very hydrating and I'd say about medium on the greasy-after-feel scale. I keep this by my bed so I can have lovely smelling hands every night. 

 Tonymoly I'm REAL Red Wine Mask Sheet Pore Care RRP $1 each, I got 2.
These are enriched with red wine complex, is fast absorbing and softens uneven skin texture while maintaining a healthy oil balance, or so they say. I haven't tried these are i'm a little nervous about the smell. If they smell like red wine I'm really not going to want them on my face for 20 minutes. I will try one and if I hate it will give the other away. I will keep you posted. 

 Innisfree Wine Peeling Jelly Softener RRP: $12 for 180ml
I was lucky enough to receive this product as many others did not get it and were compensated with points. I wish I was one of those people as, unfortunately I really don't like the smell. Its strong, sweet and very red wine-y. I won't be using this and will be passing it on to someone else. 

Blanc Doux Pinot Noir UV shield and Tone-Up Sensitive RRP: $36 for 40ml
I absolutely love this. From the packaging to the smell, its just a lovely product. It's non-greasy and is 35+. It goes on really nicely and doesn't effect my makeup at all. All round win for me. 

 Dear by Eprani Bounce Cheese Cream $35 for 30ml
This is a day cream with a stretchy mozzerella-type texture which is supposed to help it adhere to the skin. It is also supposed to hydrate your skin in such a way that it plumps your cheeks and smooths out fine lines. You can see in the picture how it has stuck to my finger and stretched out. I actually don't really like this much, which surprised me as its a cult favourite. I find that the stretchiness means that I have to change the way I get the product out of the tub, I have to scrape my finger off on the edge which I don't really like. It also leaves my skin feeling tacky. I will continue to use it until I've finished it but I won't go out of my way to get it again. I will let you know if I notice any difference in my fine lines. 

 

LadyKin Mangchee Lifting Mask RRP: $14 for 60ml
This is mask you sleep in. It is incredibly light and it just feels as though you are putting on a moisturiser. I haven't found that it sticks to anything or stains and you don't need to wash it off in the morning. The best thing is that it smells exactly the same as the hand cream. I love this smell so much and my skin feels lovely in the morning. I've never had anything like this so I'm really happy to have it. 

The Verdict
As I said before, this is my absolute favourite box so far. I really love it. All the product except the Cheese Cream are now staples in my skincare routine. I just have nothing negative to say. As I bought this box without discounts, making it my most expensive box, I'm really happy that I took that plunge. I actually think that if they did a restock I would buy it again. Between this and the other skincare box I got (Oil Therapy, see review here), they've totally won me over to the skincare boxes. No mean feat as I was only really interested in getting makeup boxes when I joined. I'm really looking forward to what they have in store for the future.  

Did you recieve this box? 

Did you like it?

What was your favourite item?

Any questions?

Check out Memebox here
note: I paid for this bag myself and have written this review with no outside prompting or imput.

Memebox Special #56 K-Style 4: Unboxing and review

Special #56 K-Style 4 was $23 USD and contains 6 full size make-up items. The theme is Korean beauty favourites.
Note: all prices are in USD as this is what they use on their site.

 If you'd like to check out Memebox, please click the link at the bottom of the post or check out my Memebox tab which explains what it is and provides links and discount codes.
 

 Shara Shara Triple Shine Color Shadow: RRP $25 for 2g. There were a few different colours available, obviously I got the purple. This really isn't my colour and I'm a bit too old for it so I've decided to give it to my neice. I haven't swatched it due to this fact. 
Receven Face Control Foundation #002 Violet RRP: $22 for 17g
I've actually wanted to try this since I saw some CPM2 unboxings so I'm happy to have it. This is a purple foundation designed to brighten dull skin tones. I have a dull skin tone but it does lighten me up a bit as well. I've only played with it a couple of times so I've still got a bit more experimenting to do before I pass judgement. A lady on an FB group suggested using a damp beauty blender to put it on and described the effect as 'beautiful'. I don't have a beauty blender, or equivalent but I think I will invest in one and give it a go. Thanks for the advice!

 

Shara Shara Petit Friend Matte Lip Crayon RRP: $11 for 3g.
There were 4 available colours and I got red which I am extremely pleased about. The packaging is cute I guess, however I'm a bit of an old duck so am not really won over by that. You get a generous amount of product (it is a twist up) and it goes on really nicely and has a pleasant scent. It is definitely not a no-budge formula but I have a red lip liner on the way in a Violet Box so I think this will help it. 

 

 IdeeB Real Triple Rouge 02 Shine Pink RRP: $17 for 3g
This is a plumping lip gloss/tint. I would agree, it plumps, is glossy and leaves a little bit of subtle colour when it's gone. I wish it wasn't such a barbie pink but it's not opaque so I feel like I can make it work. I'm not big on glosses but this one is no worse than the others and when my lips are plumped it makes them look less dry so I won't complain. The packaging however is really tacky. It's got a pink tinted chrome lid which I'm not a lover of and would be a bit embarrassed if anyone saw me using it (again I think I'm just a bit too old for it). Still, while not an extraordinary product it's pretty good for what it is. 


Receven Volumizing Mascara RRP: $26 for 7ml
I haven't used this as I still have a couple of mascaras on the go. I will update this once I've used it. I won't explain what it is, I'm sure you all know.




Beauty People Miss 100Auto Gel Pencil Liner RRP: $38 (jesus!) for 0.5g


 This is a shimmery brown eye liner. I love brown eyeliners as my eyes are too small for everyday black wear. This can be used as an eyeliner or shadow but if you use it as a shadow, blend it out before it dries because this baby is no-budge. I wore it as both an eyeliner, and an eyeshadow and was really impressed. It didn't smudge or crease the whole day. I will definitely be using this one all up. It also has a little sharpener in the base which is a nice and useful touch.



Swatches

Top: Face Control Foundation/Eye Liner/Lip Crayon/Lip Plumper/Gloss

The verdict
While this wasn't the most exciting box, it was full of useful items. The two I'm really excited about are the lip crayon and eyeliner. I'm holding out judgement of the purple foundation until I've had a good and proper play around with it. I think this is a well rounded box and good value for the price. I do however think I will ease up on the makeup boxes and start getting into the skincare ones as I've enjoyed them much more. 
 

Did you recieve this box? 

Did you like it?

What was your favourite item?

Any questions?

Check out Memebox here
note: I paid for this bag myself and have written this review with no outside prompting or imput.

Memebox Special #60: Oil Therapy Unboxing and Review

 Oil Therapy is a box chock full of full size oil-based skincare products. This box was $29USD. If you'd like to check out Memebox, please click the link at the bottom of the post or check out my Memebox tab which explains what it is and provides links and discount codes.

Note: All prices are in USD

 Holika Holika Pig-nose Clear Blackhead Deep Cleansing Oil Balm. RRP: $8 for 25g
This is a really nice cleanser. It smells kind of sherbet-y, that same tangy kind of smell. I quite like it. I could actually see the difference in my skin from the first use with this one. I used it on my chin and around my nose. It looked much clearer, softer and all round nicer after I used this baby. Since then I've been using it in the shower as my everyday cleanser. I'll definitely be missing this one when its gone.

ProYou Eucalyptus: RRP $24 for 10ml.
This is freaking crazy. Who would pay that for a thing of this oil?? Apparantly you are supposed to put this on blemishes. I will give it a go for the sake of adventure but to any Australian this notion is just really weird. It smells really strong (like Euc oil does of course) so I really don't know how people can stand to have this on their face at all. Most likely I will use this to get some sticky marks off my floors. I've actually been meaning to get some so this is a handy, if unusual inclusion. 

 Cheek Room Lip and Eye Makeup Remover. RRP: 12 for 100ml
This is a layered oil and has a faint but clean smell. You shake it up before you use it. I really like it. It gets my waterproof makeup and 24hr lipstick off perfectly and leaves my face feeling lightly moisturised like only oil can. You don't really need to moisturise afterwards so it makes me feel nice and refreshed. Love this stuff.

ProYou Aroma Vita Oil. RRP: $37 for 165ml
This is a really thick all over oil. It smells nice and clean and feels you feeling moisturised. I'm very very happy to receive this as I'm too lazy to moisturise properly after a shower, especially in winter. I generally use an oil and am going to run out of mine soon so a definite thumbs up from me. 

 Migabee Verbena Oil Serum RRP: $29 for 30ml. 
This serum claims to sooth, brighten, moisturise, protect, rejuvenate and provide an anti-aging treatment without  being greasy or heavy.
I love love love this. I don't know yet if it does anything for my fine lines (I'm almost 32 so I'm cultivating a few now) but I don't even care. It smells amazing. I can't really describe the smell but I could smell it all day. I love catching whiffs of this when I walk around after I've put it on. I would use it just for the smell. I think I'm going to have to source another one. Fingers crossed it helps with my baby wrinkles too and then I could justify the cost. 

Bobbish Luminous Body and Facial Mist RRP: $8 for 100g
Again this is a layered item you shake up before use. It is a relatively fine mist and is quite refreshing. It is supposed to hydrate and rejuvenate. It certainly does feel hydrating. I have taken to using it when I'm studying and start to feel a little drained (or just really really bored) and it helps wake me up a little bit. It smells faintly and is again a clean and refreshing smell. I certainly like this product and am happy to have received it. 







The Verdict
I really like this box a lot. I will get use out of everything (although the Eucalyptus will be used for other purposes). If I get a spot I will try the Eucalyptus oil and if it works wonderfully I will update this post but I've got the confess that I'm incredibly skeptical. 

Did you recieve this box? 

Did you like it?

What was your favourite item?

Any questions?

Check out Memebox here
note: I paid for this bag myself and have written this review with no outside prompting or imput.

Nature's Beauty Bag: Christmas Bag, first impressions

Nature's Beauty Bag releases 3-4 bags per year containing full size and delux samples. You subscribe to their newsletter and they send out alerts when their bags become available. This particular bag was $49.95, as this is their first bag of this kind, I'm not sure if this will be the cost of all the other bags or if it will change. They aimed to get the bags out before the first of December and I received this bag early last weeks which is brilliant. They send you a tracking number which is always appreciated. I've found that this company are always prompt and their customer service has been excellent so far. 
If you're unsure what Nature's Beauty Bag is, check the tab on the top of the page. In short, all the products are cruelty-free and vegan, most are organic too. 
Here's what was in the bag:




NVEY ECO Powder Blush Full Size: RRP $29.95
I got this in the colour 'blushing sunset', which is a light pink. It's a normal size for a blush and the packaging is fairly standard. It's nice and sturdy so I feel it would travel well without opening up in transit. The colour is nice, if a little too pink for me. I do find it to be a little bit powdery though but it's hardly a problem. It goes on nicely and blends well. I'm not sure how much I'll use it in summer due to the light colour, however I'll probably use it a fair bit in winter.

www.nveyeco.com

Neal's Yard Remedies Organic Lip Gloss Full Size: RRP $19.95
This is a sheer, very slightly peachy coloured lipgloss. It is quite shiny and I would describe it as mid-way regarding stickiness for a gloss. It smells a little herbally and it's a smell that doesn't really go away. That's the only negative I have for this. It is a really lovely colour, and a generous size. I've only used it a few times but it does seem to leave my lips well moisturised. I would say it's a good gloss to have.

 http://nealsyardremedies.com.au

 Wotnot Facial Wipes Sample Size of 5: RRP: 7.95 for 25
 These are facial wipes, they're just like any other I've used so I don't really have too much to say about them. They are effective, however not really a Wow product for me. Having said that, they are certainly useful and I will use them.

www.wotnot.com.au

Kylie's Professional Mineral Goddess Eye Shadow Delux Sample: RRP $37 for full size

sorry, I realise this picture is upside down.

This is a shimmery gold loose eyeshadow. I am really not a fan of loose eyeshadows and this one is no exception. I find them far too messy to work with. This feels a bit softer than some of other loose shadow's I've tried. The colour is ok, however it is a bit of a greeny gold, I have yellow skin so the colour doesn't really work well on me. I'm also a it old (31) for glittery eyeshadows. I don't mind a bit of glimmer but this has sparkle. As far as the size of the sample goes, it is very generous, I wouldn't have questioned it if they'd called it a full size. I can't see myself getting through a product that size within a year. 

http://kylies.com.au

Inika Certified Organic Natural Perfection Concealer Deluxe Sample: RRP $40 full size. This is a really nice concealer, I liked it a lot. The only problem I have with it is that it is heavily scented and not a smell I particularly like. It doesn't last though so it hasn't deterred me from using this product. Unfortunately, $40 is a bit hefty for me for a concealor, the one I use is only $10.50 and covers up my under-eye circles a bit better so I won't be switching I don't think. I use this one over my other concealer and my foundation to provide a bit of extra coverage. It's a nice product that I am very glad to have. I will be sorry when it runs out. 

http://inka.com.au 

Rubifresh Daily Facial Scrub Deluxe Sample: RRP $49

I really wanted to love this product. The colour is gorgeous and it smells of spearmint. Unfortunately though, I neither loved it nor hated it. It was a bit 'meh' for me. I did find that the exfoliant was a bit too abrasive for my face, although it would probably be alright for my body. I used it every 2nd day for a week and a half (at which point I ran out = generous sample I think). I didn't notice any difference in my skin and actually find my current scrub more moisturising and gentle than this one.

http://rubifresh.com.au

Nzuri Organics Kakonati Vegan Body Butter Deluxe Sample: RRP $24.95 - $44.95
I love this. It smells of coconut, which I don't usually like, however it is subtle and works with the other scents to create a lovely smell. It is really thick and feels luxurious to put on. While I'm sure I will use this like hell in winter, it's a bit too heavy for me in the current heat. This is not unusual for a body butter, so it's not a complaint or criticism. I'm really excited to use this in the future, if I can wait that long! 

www.nzuriorganics.com.au

 Aveda Smooth Infusion Glossing Straightener Deluxe Sample: RRP 44.95
This is a pretty big sample. It smells quite nice, difficult to describe but definitely NOT coconut which pleases me more than I can say given my last 2 hair samples smelled so strongly of the stuff I couldn't use them. I am currently growing my hair out and don't have enough of it to test this just yet but I am certainly keen to give it a go when I can. If I have any strong feelings about this one, either way, I will write up an individual review and link it here. 

www.aveda.com.au 

Morlife Dark Cocolate Covered Blueberries Deluxe Sample: RRP $9.95
I liked these well enough. The blueberry to chocolate ratio was a little chocolate-heavy but I ate them all so it can't be all that bad. I wouldn't buy them however, I'd rather head over to Wholesome House and get some dried strawberries or something instead. It was a nice inclusion though, felt very 'treat-y'

www.morlife.com

Vege Chips Lime Chilli Deluxe Sample: RRP $3.69
Way... too ...hot ...for ...me. Although I did eat ALL the chips. I love anything crunchy, rice crackers or carrots, it's on. This was therefore a welcome item, however I would have liked a more woos-friendly variety! Not their fault though, I am an enormous sook when it comes to spice.

www.vegechips.com

Assorted Sachets
Natralus Paw Paw ointment, Pure Gel and Aloe Vera RRP $4.80-$16.99, and an Awe Cosmeceuticals Nirvaata Serum RRP: $45
Not terribly interested in paw paw or the Aloe (we got a 20ml of this in the September bag). I'm only really interested in the Awe one, which sounds a lot like it does the same thing as the others, but it's quite expensive. I'll give it a go but the others will probably just end up on the bottom of my drawer, unused. 

www.awescosmeceuticals.com.au 

http://natralus.com.au 

The Swatches:

Kylie's eyeshadow / Neal's Yard Lipgloss / Nvey blush / Inika concealer

 My Bonus Item:

Neal's Yard Remedies Bee Lovely Hand Cream. This was a bonus item and one of my favourite items from the bag. It actually smells like lemon tartes, one of my favourite things. It feels nice on the hands and has that normal heavy, greasy handcream feel which a lot of people don't like but I do. That feeling doesn't however last for too long. Because of this, I feel that I will be able to use this during the hotter months. Nothing negative to say about this one. I love it.

The Verdict:
I'm not really sure about this one. I think the contents are definitely worth the price, however I'm not going to use some of the items were not as impressive as I would have liked, namely the Rubifresh, and others I probably won't use, namely the eyeshadow and sachets. Having said that, this is a natural beauty bag with 2 makeup items. This is astounding for a beauty bag and has pleased me greatly. I do love getting introduced to new brands and, as a vegetarian I like to know that the products I'm using are cruelty-free and free from animal bi-products. I'm giving this bag a thumbs up and will most likely be keeping a keen eye out for the next lot.

 http://www.naturesbeautybag.com.au/

  Did you recieve this bag? 

Did you like it?

What was your favourite item?

Any questions?

note: I paid for this bag myself and have written this review with no outside prompting or imput.

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