28 March 2023

MY TOP 5 MASCARAS {MARCH 2023}


I have updated my list of " Top 5 Mascaras ".
My original list was posted back in April 2019 and then I updated it again in 
April 2022, so it seemed only right that I amended my list for April 2023.

I have removed one mascara from my previous 2022 "Top 5" and that doesn't
mean that it's not still good, it's just that I've discovered others.
The one that has fallen off my list is the:
 CLARINS 4D WONDER PERFECT MASCARA 
and its been replaced by the
MAYBELLINE SENSATIONAL SKY HIGH MASCARA


~~~~~~


MASCARA
what would we do without it, its a great invention and I wouldn't
 be a happy bunny if mascara disappeared from my life, as I'm sure is 
the case for many of you.
Mascara helps to open up the eye area, as well as give the illusion of length, volume, curl and thickness to short, sparse, straight and thin lashes.
We just love our mascaras, hence why we are constantly being bombarded
 with new ones making a mascara purchase even more daunting.

I have chosen my top 5 based on what I personally require from a mascara
 and of course your requirements may well be very different, 
but after many years of
 "trial and error"
 The below 5 form my current "Mascara Wardrobe".

I'm looking for a mascara that has a smallish brush (the brush is key for me) 
feels good in my hand and is easy to wield around my sparse line up of lashes.
It must be black, non waterproof, non flake, non smudge and basically make
 my own lashes look long, voluminous and glamorous, it must literally
 "do it all".

If I were to recommend only 2 brands that have, in my opinion, cornered
 the mascara market then it has to be 
L'Oréal and Benefit 
and you really cannot go wrong with any of their mascara offerings.

My list is in no particular order and I hope it helps you navigate the
 "Mascara Maze" and I highly recommend that you click on the
 Pink Links 
to read my full in-depth original reviews.

Please lease let me know
in the comment section below what your favourite mascaras are,
 as I'm always on the hunt for new ones to review...



1.

L'ORÉAL
UNLIMITED MASCARA

When I originally reviewed this mascara it hadn't been launched in SA, 
which meant I had to have a couple of back-ups at all times,
 when I could get my hands on them overseas.
I'm happy to say that it's now readily available in L'Oréal stockists.
I just adore everything about this mascara and the added bonus is the 
angled brush that makes mascara life so much easier, so if you're looking
 for an affordable good all round black mascara that is easy to apply, 
especially on those sparse awkward to reach lashes then this is 
the one to consider.
This mascara deserves to stay on my Top 5 list, as it's everything I need
 from an everyday mascara.
To read my original review Click here



2.

FENTY BEAUTY
FULL FRONTAL 
VOLUME LIFT & CURL MASCARA


Full Frontal is a lightweight, ultra black formula with an exclusive 
flat-to-fat brush:  
The FLAT side defines and curls and thanks to the round, pointed tip.
Use the FLAT side to comb through and define, curl, and separate. 
The FAT side holds max product to quickly load and lift lashes. 
Use the FAT side to load and lift, wiggling at the base of your lashes
 to build volume.
Full Frontal does build easily giving you plenty of playtime to layer, 
define, separate and whatever it is you need to do to create the look
 you want without being clumpy or thick on the lashes.
I found it to be long wearing, smudge proof, and water-resistant.
This mascara is without doubt, both prettily packaged and it
 delivers on its claims, however it does come in quite pricey 
However if you are a Rihanna devotee or not on a budget then this
 mascara won't disappoint.
To read my full original review  Click here




3.

BENEFIT
BADGAL BANG
MASCARA

This is one of the 2 mascaras that have remained on my list from 2019 and to be fair
it is my absolute favourite mascara ever and has been so since I reviewed it back in
February 2019.
The mascara comes with a plastic streamlined flexible brush and it ensures that all
 areas of lashes can be reached, which is essentially for those shorter corner lashes
 and it was a breeze to apply.
It's a pitch black wet mascara, which I personally prefer, and one coat does make
 a difference to lashes, but why stop at one when you can easily layer several coats
to create a bolder bigger lash.
So if you love your mascara to be big, bold and dramatic then
BAD gal BANG is the one for you...
 I just love it...
To read my full original review Click here




4.

URBAN DECAY 
PERVERSION MASCARA


I find URBAN DECAY to be a make-up brand that I re-purchase
 from often, as it has several of my absolute favourite products. 
Sadly UD ceased its operations in South Africa a couple of years ago
 and I also discovered that UD have ceased its operations in Turkey, as my 
cosmetic mule recently found out when she couldn't find UD anywhere,
which sadly meant that my order of back-ups of my fave URBAN DECAY
 products didn't materialise.
PERVERSION MASCARA
is an intense black, ultra-creamy, lengthening and volumizing mascara that 
glides on beautifully and is buildable, stroke after stroke.
I liked the twisted trim on the high-tech, volumizing brush that latches 
on to each lash to separate and define..
I would definitely recommend this long lasting mascara for ease of
 application, bolder and more voluminous lashes that don't smudge or flake.
So If you want bigger, blacker, badder lashes then this mascara is 
certainly one to check out.
To read my full original review Click here


5.

MAYBELLINE 
SENSATIONAL SKY HIGH MASCARA


Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara is a mascara that grants
 incredible lash length and volume. 
This washable formula is both easy to apply and buildable, ideal to highlight
 your eyes with long-wearing intensity. 

The silicone brush, which I love, is precise and allows for both a quick
 and effortless application that reaches every single lash, even my
most shortest.
Exclusive Flex Tower mascara brush bends to volumize and extend
 every single lash from root to tip.

The formula doesn't flake or smudge and is easy to remove. 
Featuring bamboo extract, fibers and also precious oils, the mascara
 contributes to long, full and healthy lashes. 

This mascara for me is a winner and that's why its gone straight onto
my list of Top 5 Mascara List.












26 March 2023

FENTY BEAUTY GLOSS BOMB LIP LUMINIZER {REVIEW}

 Being only my 3rd product that I'm reviewing from 
FENTY BEAUTY
 I'm expecting great things, as I absolutely love the
Eaze Drop Blurring Skin Tint click here and their 
Full Frontal Volume & Lift mascara click here isn't too shabby either.

This GLOSS BOMB LIP LUMINIZER
was part of an influencer beauty edit that I bought in
the UK last year, so it wasn't a specific purchase and probably
would not have been one that I would have made.


This universal lip luminizer delivers explosive shine in shades that
flatter all skin tones. 
One swipe of Gloss Bomb’s XXL wand leaves lips looking instantly
 fuller and smoother.

The non-sticky formula is super shiny, and has an addictive peach-vanilla
scent you just can't get enough of. 
Apparently Rihanna was obsessed with creating
the perfect gloss that makes you want to put it on over and over again.
The shade I received was FENTY GLOW, which is a liquid shimmering
sheer rose nude with a high shine.
I was very sceptical about the gold/bronze shade, as this shade would
not be one that I would choose, but don't be put off as
it's a very flattering either worn alone, which is how I wear it the
 most or over any other lipstick shade.


Since the beginning of March it has been my go to everyday and I'm
loving both the shade and formula and one I would highly
recommend if you are looking for an easy to wear, pretty,
 hint of a tint lip gloss.
RIHANNA's obsession could well have paid off, as she has created 
an excellent rose nude Lip Gloss...



FENTY BEAUTY
GLOSS BOMB
LIP LUMINIZER
9ml

R
385


£
18


$
20


Fenty Beauty is available from
Edgars and ARC Stores


23 March 2023

AROMATHERAPY ASSOCIATES DE-STRESS MUSCLE BATH & SHOWER OIL #TBT REVIEW

I have been rather precious 
with this bath product and contrary
to what I normally advocate, I have been keeping this beautiful
oil for use on special occasions only, as I'm not sure when I will be 
able to get my hands on more...
However that doesn't alter
anything that I wrote in my original review a year ago.
ENJOY!

 
~~~~~~


Bath or Shower?
I'm 110% in the Bath camp and I cannot stress how much my
bathing ritual is my absolute "Happy Place".
I have to admit though, my water is often too hot, my bubbles and candles
 are too many, but all combined it makes for my perfect relaxing setting
and I love it.
I am known to "spend money" when it comes to candles and bath products
and I don't apologise for it...
In my 2021 Beauty Advent Calendar from John Lewis this was
THE product, over several others, that convinced me to buy the calendar.
It was also a full size, what more could I ask for...

AROMOTHERAPY ASSOCIATES 
DE-STRESS MUSCLE BATH & SHOWER OIL


Despite having nearly bought it on several occasions I just couldn't
bring myself to splurge on this ultimate award winning bath product.

Here is some background on the 
AROMATHERAPY ASSOCIATES brand

They've been sharing the therapeutic powers of essential oils for over 30 years. 
Starting out as therapists in the early 1970s, the founders, 
Geraldine Howard and Sue Beechey
 connected with the emerging practice of aromatherapy. 
 They experienced first-hand the powerfully positive effects of essential oils 
on our physical and emotional wellbeing and it
began a love affair with aromatherapy.
In 1985, Geraldine and Sue's passion for teaching, practicing and blending 
oils spilled into a desire to share the benefits of aromatherapy with a wider audience. Aromatherapy Associates was born with a small range 
of therapeutic-grade products and treatments.
Fast forward to the 21st century. 
They continue to celebrate and share the wonders and benefits of 
essential oils
 with an ever-growing range of award-winning products and transformative treatments that can be found all over the world.

The healing properties of therapeutic Rosemary, warming Ginger and
 invigorating Black Pepper are especially blended to ease tired limbs. 
Immerse lack-lustre, fatigued or over-exerted muscles in the warming
 and soothing essential oils of the 
De-Stress Muscle Bath & Shower Oil. 
There is a slight difference with this oil as it
is applied directly to the body and not poured into the bath.
Infused with up to 30% pure essential oil blends, just one capful of
 Bath & Shower Oil provides a truly therapeutic experience. 
Bring a little therapy to a bathing experience by massaging this oil all over
 your lower back & torso prior to stepping into a warm bath or shower. 
Enhance the aromatherapy benefits by cupping your hands to your face 
and inhaling deeply several times. 
 Apparently one bottle will provide you with up to 20 muscle soothing
 bathing experiences.
I'm not too sure that mine will last for 20, but I'll report back.

*Please note 
this product is not suitable for during pregnancy or breastfeeding*

What can I say other than this oil is
pure pampering bliss
It relaxes and eases tension, whilst stimulating circulation all at the same
 time and of course it smells divine, leaves the skin feeling amazing
and with so many other products in the collection, 
this has ignited a passion for AROMATHERAPY ASSOCIATES 
and I want more...


AROMOTHERAPY ASSOCIATES 
DE-STRESS MUSCLE
 BATH & SHOWER OIL
55ml


R
N/A in SA


£
50


$
71


If you would like to read more of my Bath Products Reviews

21 March 2023

RITUALS RITUAL OF AYURVEDA RECOVERY HAND BALM {REVIEW}

Thanks once again to my



 RITUALS 
Advent Calendar 2022 for another great product find. 
My absolute favourite RITUAL is the Ritual Of Ayurveda and I just
 cannot get enough of the beautiful combination of
 Indian Rose and Sweet Almond
that evoke positive feelings and boost your mood.

On the hand cream front I have reviewed previously their
Ritual Of Ayurveda Hand Lotion, 
which, by the way is my favourite
hand cream of all time, so I'm hoping that this
Ritual of Ayurveda Recovery Hand balm
is just as good if not even better.


This luxurious hand balm has been specially developed to soften and
 moisturise dry hands. 
Enriched with softening sweet almond oil and soothing Indian rose, 
your hands will feel nourished and silky soft. 
The rich and luxurious hand balm sinks in the skin easily, so you can easily
 use it at any moment of the day.

This hand balm for dry hands with 98% ingredients of natural origin is
 carefully curated to benefit your skin optimally. 
The remaining 2% are clean & conscious lab-made ingredients which 
support the integrity and safety of our formulations.

This is without doubt another beautiful hand cream and I would
hate to recommend this one over the Soothing Hand Balm,
so my recommendation is that you try both and then make
your own decision, as you really cannot go wrong with either.


RITUALS
RITUAL OF AYURVEDA
RECOVERY HAND BALM
70ML

R
285


$
14.50


£
11.50


If you would like to read more of my
reviews on RITUALS then


You can now buy RITUALS online from NamOnline here



19 March 2023

SKOON GEL-TO-GO CLEANSER +MAKE-UP REMOVER {REVIEW}

SKOON
 is a home grown South African skincare brand and one that has
impressed me thus far, with the two products, that I have reviewed.
As I have made clear on my blog, so many times, my preferred
format for a cleanser is either a milk or cream cleanser, 
call me "Old School" but nothing beats the comforting feel a 
cream cleanser gives whilst either removing your make-up
or just cleansing away the pollution of the day.


I generally prefer to do a double cleanse, 1st cleanse is with a 
face wash/balm or oil type cleanser and then I go in with a
 milk or cream to give my skin the perfect double cleanse.
However with this
SKOON GEL-TO-MILK Cleanser + Make-Up Remover
I chose to use it as my 1st and 2nd cleanse, if the quantity in the sachet
allows for it.


This all-in-one cleanser and makeup remover
goes from a soft gel to milky fluid the moment you add water, 
soothing while cleansing. 
It's a foam-free, jelly cleanser that claims to soothe extra-dry
 or sensitive skin.
It removes make-up without ‘stripping’ vital oils and is
Fragrance free.

How to Use:
Can be used both AM & PM
Massage small amount of cleanser into skin. 
Dip fingers into water and continue to massage milky gel to uplift 
any residual makeup. 
Final step, splash with water and SKOON recommends that you
 wipe with a muslin facecloth to remove any excess cleanser 
and leave skin smooth and polished.

Unfortunately I was only able to get one application from my sample
yet it was just enough for me to form an opinion.
Whilst the gel to milk cleanser was pleasant to use and it did remove my
light make-up and didn't strip my skin, it didn't really impress me enough
 to say much more on the product and it's not one I would personally
 go onto purchase.
Thankfully the use of the sample did prevent me from dropping
over R450 on a rather small 100mls of cleansing product.




SKOON
GEL-TO-MILK CLEANSER
 + MAKE-UP REMOVER
30/100ml


R
229.95/469.95




SKOON is available online
or from selected retailers:
Woolworths






14 March 2023

DR.VRANJES FIRENZE ROOM SPRAY {REVIEW}

Dr. Vranjes FIRENZE is, for me, the ultimate when it comes to home
 and even car fragrance and despite having one of their divine 
room diffusers for a couple of years now, I have never reviewed 
the brand here on my blog.
I was excited to receive a 25ml Rosso Nobile Room Spray in my
 SkinsCosmetics Christmas Box 2022.





Here is a brief overview of the brand:

Dr Paolo Vranjes
 a chemist and accomplished artisan perfumer, has developed a unique
 and world renowned range of luxury fragrances.
Inspired by his home city of Florence and the beautiful landscapes of Tuscany,
 Dr Vranjes artfully blends together pure natural ingredients with the 
world's finest essential oils to create stimulating and evocative fragrances.
In 1999, Maestro Paolo Vranjes chose to enter the world of perfumery
 by creating ambient fragrances.
The iconic bottle, created in 2008 was inspired by Florence - 
inspired by Brunelleschi's Dome, the bottle is a glass cast 
handcrafted by Florentine artisans.
Maestro Paolo Vranjes, who has headed the Maison for over 36 years, 
continues to dedicate himself fully to what he loves doing,
creating recollections and memories through scent.


There are many fragrance options that the Doctor has created, 
however Rosso Nobile is for me and for many, his best creation
of all and it's like no other fragrance that I have ever tried
and it's the best seller.
Like many good creations there's always a good story and this
creation is no exception...

The ambient fragrance of Rosso Nobile was created due to a challenge
 that a dear friend and wine maker proposed to Maestro Paolo Vranjes.
 He was convinced that the scent of a glass of red wine and its nuances
 could not be reproduced within a fragrance. 
He was forced to admit defeat a few years later when he was sent
 Rosso Nobile.



Rosso Nobile
 is a sublime combination between
 the sweet and fruity notes of grapes and berries, 
the soft notes of violet and magnolia,
 and tannin invoking birch wood. 
The scent of a Tuscan red is perfect to provide a relaxing atmosphere 
to living spaces.

There's no doubt that Rosso Nobile is a deep and rich fragrance, that
brings a luxurious warmth to any space, however I would alway
choose the room diffuser over the room spray, as the lingering fragrance
 pay off is just outstanding with the diffuser.
The room spray is a perfect back up to the diffuser for 
those occasions when you require that instant
burst of the beautiful Rosso Nobile fragrance into your room.



DR.VRANJES
ROSSO NOBILE
ROOM SPRAY
100ml

R
1,015



Dr.Vranjes is available in South Africa from