Summer Feet – Easy To Do Blissful Pampering

7  Steps to Beautiful Summer Feet

Summer is on its way. And the warm weather brings with it lesser clothing and bare feet. So as you bring out your summer sandals, here are a few tips not only to freshen up your winter weathered feet but also indulge in some blissful pampering.

STEP 1: Start afresh.

Use a cotton pad or cotton ball soaked with nail-polish remover to take off any old polish. Choose a polish remover that is also a treatment for the nails and will prepare them for the polish later on. Some excellent polish removers will not only leave the nails in good condition but will contain hydrating oils and vitamins to keep the cuticles in good health too.
OPI Expert Touch Lacquer Remover 120ml $11.95 Revitanail Nail Polish Remover 120ml $9.95

STEP 2: Soak away the stress
Fill a foot tub or bucket with warm water and place it in front of a comfortable chair – somewhere you can sit and relax. Add some scented foot soaks to the water and soak your feet for at least 10 to 15 minutes. This will refresh, soften and prepare your feet for the pampering treatment. Try; The Body Shop Lemongrass Deodorising Foot Soak
$23.95

STEP 3: Banish dead skin and calluses
Massage an exfoliating scrub such as Bush Essentials Body Scrub$30.00 into your feet, concentrating on the soles and heels. Leave the scrub on and use a pumice or The Body Shops File a Foot $4.95 to buff down calluses and slough away dead skin cells.

An especially great product for calluses is OPI Callus Therapy $24.95. Pay special attention to your heels, the balls of your feet and the outsides of your little toes. Use a gentle hand brush to clean the area where your nails meet your skin.
Rinse your feet with cool water.

STEP 4: Trim nails and care for cuticles
During summer, your feet are in (chlorinated) water more often so your nails and cuticles need extra care. Trim toenails, cutting them in a square shape to prevent ingrown toe nails. Smooth the edges with a nail file. Very gently push back cuticles with an orange stick or the end of a nail file. Use an oil such as Revitanail Nourishing Oil $14.95 to condition and soften the cuticles.

STEP 5:  Moisturise and massage
Dry off your feet with a soft towel and apply a foot cream such as Crabtree&Evelyn
Extreme Foot Therapy $24.95, Burt’s Bees Mama Bee Foot & Leg Crème $21.95 or Coconut Foot Crème $21.95. For feet and heels that need extra special attention try Sally Hansen Healing Foot Crème $13.95 or The Body Shop Spa Wisdom Hand and Foot Butter $29.95. Massage in long upward strokes, starting from your toes up to your calves and knees.

STEP 6. Nail Polish Colour Trends For Summer
Before applying nail polish, use a nail treatment such as OPI Nail Strengthener $19.96 that will not only hide nail polish but also protect from breaks, chips and splits. OPI Trainer Karon McKendrick-Taylor tells us that the trends for summer continue to be the Dark colours. However dark shades on toes tend to heat up your feet through summer. Cool down with a softer pastel shade or a fun bright bold shade this summer.
For the best longer-lasting holiday pedicure use a shimmery shade because they last longer and are less likely to chip because of the metallic resin contained in the lacquer. Then, for a gorgeous finish that’s super-easy and dry in 60 seconds, apply one coat of OPI Rapid Dry Top Coat $22.45 or for a supper shiny finish use Sally Hansen Mega Shine Top Coat $13.95.

DAILY: Keep your feet smooth and sweet
Every night before bedtime, apply a cream or treatment to keep your feet and especially your heels looking soft and beautiful and help prevent build-up of hard, dry skin. In the daytime, keep feet fresh smelling and comfortable with Aveda Foot Relief $44.95 or OPI Double Coverage $23.95. Both these products not only hydrate the feet but deodorise them as well.

Follow these tips and not only will you have gorgeous soft feet but you will enjoy some well deserved pampering too. Enjoy.

Here Comes The Sun

Here Comes The Sun

The sun, while being an unrivalled source of natural benefits to our health, is also the main source of premature ageing.  We’re all familiar with the common effects of exposure to UV radiation such as sunburn, premature ageing and skin cancer.

It is estimated that one in two Australians will develop some form of skin cancer in their lifetime, while over 300,000 people are diagnosed with non-melanoma skin cancer each year. And in people aged 15 to 44 melanoma is the most common cancer.

The most effective protection against this damage is to stay in the shade especially between 11am and 4pm during peak sunshine hours. Always wear your sun hat, sunglasses and protective clothing and always apply and reapply your sun protection every two hours or more frequently in strong sun.

Choose skincare that will incorporate your sun protection such as Third Stone Botanicals Sunfilter Moisturiser $22.00 that is suitable for all skin types.

A light natural facial sunscreen with zinc oxide that gives broad spectrum UV protection SPF15. Or try the new Nivea Light Feel Daily Face Veil SPF30 $10.99. A non-greasy formula that contains both UVA/UVB filters and is ideal under makeup.There is no doubt that in Australia it is impossible to avoid sun exposure and unfortunately there will be times where regardless of your best efforts you will get sun touched.

For this reason Clarins has developed a whole range of products that will help your skin recover from over-exposure.

Consisting of five products they are:

1: After Sun Moisturiser Ultra-Hydrating; Soothing care with maximum hydration that helps prolong a tan.

2: After Sun Moisturising Self Tanning; A second moisturiser for those wishing to reduce time spent in the sun creating a more intense, longer-lasting tan with an attractive golden glow that is incredibly natural-looking.

3: After Sun Gel Ultra-Soothing; With its melting oil-free texture, this delicious amber-coloured gel instantly cools down hot skin. Containing Aloe Vera this gel immediately refreshes skin and calms feelings of heat and discomfort after exposure to the sun.

4: After Sun Replenishing Moisture Care For Face And Décolleté; Soothes, repairs and softens the delicate skin on the face and décolleté. Helps repair sun-induced damage and prevent signs of premature ageing while enhancing a radiant-looking tan and restoring skin’s beauty. Immediately comforts while protecting against free radicals which can remain active long after sun exposure.

5: SOS Sunburn Soother; A true “sun bandage” that works to repair, refresh and comfort over-exposed skin. This emergency balm instantly rescues sunburned skin as it soothes feelings of hot skin, decongests and diminishes redness. Repairs skin damage linked to the sun and nourishes the skin.
All products are $40.00 and available from 1st December 2008

When it comes to sun damage lets not forget our hair. The hair is one of the most exposed areas on the body so we need specialised products to help in the protection and repair of our hair. Not only is our hair is exposed to UV damage it also has to battle chlorine, saltwater and air-conditioning.

Continual exposure to summer’s harsh elements can cause the protective layer of the hair fibre to breakdown and the hair’s natural waterproofing ability to decrease. The result is porous, sensitised hair that’s prone to colour fade, dullness and brittleness. Kerastase Soleil Collection helps hair cope with summer.

1: Kerastase Soleil Micro-Voile Protecteur 100ml $36.50. A light UV-protection spray for colour-treated hair exposed to environmental aggressions. It provides anti-humidity protection, long-lasting shine and leaves hair feeling silky smooth. It contains the Filtré Photo-Defense technology, mineral oils and shine polymers.

2: Kerastase Bain Apres-Soleil 250ml $32.50. The original bath for protection against sun and environmental exposure for coloured or highlighted hair. Bain Après-Soleil eliminates build-up on the hair and scalp and reconstitutes hair fibre’s surface and structure. Hair is left feeling supple and flowing with longer lasting colour radiance.

3: Kerastase Gelee Fraiche 200ml $54.00. This light, moisturising care for fine-medium colour-treated hair, quenches coloured hair exposed to external aggressions and hydrates and soothes the scalp. Its unique formula contains Ceramides to repair and strengthen the hair and Pro-Vitamin B5 to provide long-lasting moisture, nourishment and protection. The sensation of freshness is immediate. Hair is left repaired, feels light and soft, and the colour is radiant.

4: Kerastase Serum Apres-Soleil 50ml $36.50. This ultra-shine smoothing serum is for colour-treated hair exposed to environmental aggressions. Its unique formula contains Ceramides to repair and strengthen the hair, and Vitamin E derivatives to enhance the performance of UV Filters and condition of the hair. Hair colour is protected against UV damages with long lasting shine and colour radiance.

Of course we don’t actually have to go in the sun to have a glowing Bronzed look this summer. Guerlain Terracotta Collection (below) will help us achieve a flawless sun kissed look that is reinvented year after year. Consisting of Limited Edition Powders, a Bronzing Brush and a shimmering eye shadow, here are my favourite products.

1: Terracotta Powder – Africa Rhythm $99.00; Capturing the sunset of Africa with its unique beauty of intense coppery tones, the intense shades of Africa Rhythm give the face an irresistible deep-bronzed sheen. Available in turtle shell mofit.

2: Terracotta Bronzing Brush $ 80.00- Radiance with the Stroke of a Brush. The natural shade, 00 Natural Bronze, is intelligent and self-adjusting, instantly adapting to all skin tones. Its transparent formula leaves the skin smooth, soft and clear. This new must-have addition to the Terracotta range can be used on its own, for a sunny “nude” look, or with Terracotta Bronzing Powder for enhanced radiance.

3: Tajine – Metal Eye Shadow for the Eyes $55.00. Tajine is a little treasure for the eyes, a compact eyeshadow with a super-fine metallic shimmer. Applied using the integrated brush, its harmonious shades literally melt on the eyelid. Subtle and fresh, Tajine gives the eyes a sunny, natural, sensual brilliance. This exquisite limited edition is available in three shades: 01 Blonde Metal, 02 Brunette Metal, and 03 Dark Metal.

Armed with these skin and hair saving products we are bound to have a good summer.

Always remember that prevention is better than a cure so avoid over exposure to the sun, use sunscreen and wherever possible stay in the shade.

December 2008 – Beauty News

Australis is launching a gorgeous Limited Edition Collectors range of lipsticks to help commemorate Australis’ 21st birthday. They are inspired by the fashion trends of the 80′s, 90′s and today’s Red Carpet looks. Available in: Disco Fever, High School Sweet Heart, 21 Diamonds, Demure, Bathing Beauty and Red Carpet. Collect all six and enjoy the trip down memory lane.
RRP: $12.95

Estee Lauder’s Re-Nutriv Ultimate Youth Eye Creme

Designed to please those with the most discerning of tastes, Re-Nutriv Ultimate Youth Eye Creme offers the ultimate in skincare science with the most luxurious texture. Containing ResveratrateTM a stabilized, time-released form of the powerful anti-oxidant Resveratrol, promoting skin cell longevity and prolonging the youthfulness of skin.  This remarkable exclusive Youth Molecule is a true breakthrough.  Precious, potent, concentrated, time activated and skin friendly (bio-mimetic,) it penetrates quickly and directly into the skin’s surface.

This first-to-market technology, combined with rare and precious ingredients, now captures the power to preserve youth around the delicate eye area in Re-Nutriv Ultimate Youth Eye Creme. This whipped, wet, luscious eye creme will help prolong a youthful look. Fragrance-free.  Ophthalmologist tested, Dermatologist tested and non-acnegenic.Available at Estee Lauder counters nationwide on November 2, 2008. RRP-15ml $195

Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Volupte Lipstick
Both light and covering, the cream texture becomes fluid on contact with the lips, for a delightful feeling and an exceptional gliding effect. A nutri-protective vegetal complex nourishes your lips, keeping them smooth, soft and comfortable. This ultra-sensual texture is presented in an elegant case with beautiful feminine curves. The golden metallic packaging has an intricate carving of the Yves Saint Laurent logo that reveals the shade with a mirror on top for quick application throughout the day.

Thanks to the glossy film that reflects the light, and the colour-shine complex that magnifies the colour, the 18 shades of this new lipstick will make your lips simply irresistible. Choose your own voluptuous attitude. RRP: $55

APIVITA Aqua Vita
APIVITA introduces Aqua Vita, the new line for skin hydration, offers natural and effective hydration adapted to the needs of each skin type according to individual lifestyles. The aqua vita products improve skin moisture levels naturally and contain:

Chaste tree extract: It is rich in phyto-endorphins, substances similar to beta-endorphins produced by our bodies when we are happy, creating a sense of well-being and euphoria and boosting mood. Black oat: Black or wild oats are rich in polysaccharides, B-complex vitamins, and trace elements, while they also contain eight amino acids that are essential to the human body. Skin becomes softer and suppler as it better retains moisture, while its natural repair and protection system is also enhanced. Olive polyphenols: Powerful antioxidants that protect skin from free radicals.

They improve skin suppleness, moisturise, and help skin look radiant. Sweet almond: Almond oil, produced from the ripe nuts of the almond tree, is rich in fatty acids, B-complex vitamins, and vitamins A & E. It is compatible with skin lipids, and with its soothing, hydrating, and nourishing action helps keep skin really smooth. Honey: Honey is rich in vitamins and trace elements, has soothing action and enhances skin’s elasticity by hydrating the skin. Propolis: Propolis has amazing antiseptic properties and it is ideal for oily –combination skin types. It balances oiliness and gives matt appearance to the skin. Thanks to its important anti-oxidant properties, it protects the skin from premature aging.

AQUA VITA line consists of:
24 – HOUR MOISTURISING CREAM FOR NORMAL/DRY SKIN $54.90
with chaste tree & honey; 92% natural ingredients
24 – HOUR MOISTURISING DAY CREAM FOR NORMAL/DRY SKIN – SPF10 $59.90, with chaste tree & honey 80% natural ingredients
24 – HOUR MOISTURISING CREAM FOR VERY DRY SKIN $54.90
with chaste tree & almond 90% natural ingredients
24 – HOUR MOISTURISING CREAM FOR OILY / COMBINATION SKIN $54.90, with chaste tree & propolis, 92% natural ingredients
24 – HOUR MOISTURISING DAY CREAM FOR OILY / COMBINATION SKIN – SPF 10 $59.90, with chaste tree & propolis, 85% natural ingredients
INTENSIVELY MOISTURISING MASK FOR ALL SKIN TYPES $24.90
with chaste tree & honey, 92% natural ingredients

Babor Eyebrow Designer
Sensational, patented world exclusive! By simply and hygienically combing with the newly developed applicator, the eyebrows are coloured and styled in a single step. The phenomenal Eyebrow Designer using innovative technology gently colours the hairs and accentuates the eyebrows to perfection for entirely natural and stylish results. Lends the eyes more intensity and the face an alluring expressiveness.  In two shades for natural-looking colour.
Colours: 01 noisette (light brown); 02 brunette (brown)
Available November 08 from all good BABOR salons.

Colgate Plax Gentle Care Mouthwash

Mouthwash is a great complement to any oral care routine, and Australian Dentists and Hygienists recommend using mouthwash to help protect gums and prevent cavities. Now Colgate is introducing alcohol-free Colgate Plax Gentle Care mouthwash, carefully formulated to be kind to sensitive mouths. Unlike other ordinary mouthwashes, Colgate Plax Gentle Care is alcohol free and gives you the 12hr protection against bacteria and plaque without the burn. Some people are unable to tolerate alcohol-containing mouthwashes because of the burning or stinging sensation.

This is particularly true for people with dry mouths due to hormonal changes, medical conditions or medications. Colgate Plax Gentle Care fights plaque and bacteria for up to 12 hours, protects gums, and removes 4 times more plaque than brushing alone. Colgate Plax Gentle Care also cleans in hard to reach places, and has a mild refreshing taste for long lasting fresh breath. For expert advice on the Colgate Plax Mouthwash range, please phone the Colgate-Palmolive Consumer Information Service on 1800 802 307. RRP (500ml) $6.99

Australis Nail Enamel – Product Review

Australis Nail Enamel
Australis Nail Enamel is resistant to chipping, streaking and fading. Its ingredients are proven to add strength, flexibility and durability. It is rich with deep shine and the colour goes on easily without streaking. Available in 14 shades.

$7.95

Livia
These nail polishes come in a range of easy to wear colours and they are very easy to apply. They dry surprisingly quickly and have an even colour distribution. If you are after a cheap nail polish that looks good on your nail than give these colours a go. I found that it lasts well for at least 4 days on my nails without a to coat, but with a top coat I can easily go for a week without chopping or fading.

Linda
At first, I did not read the product introduction so was really surprised that after only 1 application, the colour spread was perfectly even and I did not require to put a 2nd coat after it dried. The application is very simple, only need 1 coat and the polish sort of evens out the tone and colour by itself. It was very quick drying which was really surprising- unlike other nail polishes where you have to wonder around blowing on the nail so it doesn’t smudge, this one dries in about 30 seconds. The polish started to chip from the tip on the 3rd day. Texture is reasonably thick, which I presume is the trick for its self-evening system. This nail polish is similarly priced to other nail polishes in the market but with extra value in time saving.

Melanie
This Polish was not a colour I’d choose to wear, but it is a lovely fresh shade nonetheless.  The bottle itself was a large circular shape, which made the handle of the brush a touch more difficult to hold.  I personally prefer a smaller brush to hold on to, as it means ease of application for me.  It lasted a week on my fingernails with only a small amount of wearing and chipping. I found the Nail Polish to be quite thin in application – a good thing, because you can easily get the depth of colour you want.  The smell was quite normal and as soon as the Polish dried, all trace of scent was gone. This is a lovely Nail Polish which could have been perfect had the handle of the brush been smaller, but this is just a personal preference.  Otherwise, it is one I’d look at in the future. To get the perfect colour, I think you’d pay almost whatever it cost…that being said, however, there is certainly no reason not to buy this Polish,  the price is very reasonable.  The handle was its only downfall.

Margie
At first glance I loved the colour, a pearly nude pink (no. 51942 Dusk) and thought it would suit many skin tones (I’m not particularly adventurous with my nail colour). The packaging itself seems quite sturdy though not especially glamorous.

The size of the brush was ideal for application; however, the polish itself was streaky and quite thick making it difficult for even application. The smell was roughly the same as other polishes I had tried in the past, no better no worse. My nails didn’t chip for over a week! I think I would have to award this nail polish 3 and a half stars, because the overall finish was not quite what I was looking for but it did go the miles.

Evelina
My first impression was okay, the packaging was simple and ordinary just like any other nail colour. The application goes really well on my nails and the wearability last almost 4 days, but I think it would last longer if I didn’t do a lot of house cleaning. The smell wasn’t too bad and the texture is pretty good, not too thick not too runny. I don’t think I will purchase this product again as I don’t use nail polish at all.

Kiss Down Under – Personal Care Products

Kiss Down Under
Kiss Down Under is the first unisex personal care and grooming range made with organic ingredients specially used for your down under. It is designed to give your the fabulous feeling of freshness by eliminating odor, sweat, and  discomfort as well as complementing pre and post waxing treatments to maintain impeccable personal hygiene for men and women.
100% free from synthetic materials, the Kiss Down Under range are made with organic ingredients and have active natural anti-bacterial agents, designed to have a positive impact on the body. This results in better skin diffusion and absorption with lower risks of allergies.

UNISEX CLEANSING WASH, 80ml $45.00
Unisex Cleansing Wash is an everyday basic cleansing product and the first step to your personal grooming regime. It is specifically designed for intimate cleansing and pH balanced to suit the pubic area. Unisex Cleansing Wash is soap free making it gentle for everyday use… we guarantee it will give you a ‘wow’ sensation.
WARNING: Only use a small amount and lather with water.

UNISEX HYGIENE WIPES $9.00
Get that shower fresh feeling anywhere anytime.
Kiss Down Under is the evolution of personal grooming, not a fad but a way of life. But can this new way of life adapt to any lifestyle or environment you choose? I know I can get a Kiss Down Under but can I take it with me wherever I want to go?
When you’re on the go Unisex Hygiene Wipes allows you to cleanse and freshen up without a shower. Conveniently travel size wipes are luxurious flushable towels that are infused with Unisex Cleansing Wash ready to go when you are. No matter where you are or how much time you have (or don’t have) Unisex Hygiene Wipes will always keep you clean and fresh. You will be able to maintain personal hygiene & stay under control with this fabulous product. They are great for travelling, after exercise, or preparation for waxing/shaving.

Livia
I love trying different products and these personal care products are about as different as you can get. It is a fantastic idea to have products that are specifically formulated for such a sensitive area. They are also great when travelling or even to keep in your handbag to freshen up after a long day at the office before heading out in the evening if you don’t have the chance to have a shower. Especially the wipes are inexpensive and discreet so you can always have one on hand.

Linda
Very ingenious idea! The size provided was perfect for the handbag and perfect for summer changing from a day at the beach to a night out. Very easy, self explanatory, not much different in terms of concept for products for the whole body on the market, but one that is designed specifically for down under makes it ‘worry-free’ that what you are applying is safe and targets that specific region. The smell wasn’t anything strong, doesn’t smell like a fragranced product, rather a clean, disinfecting sort of smell crossed with tea tree oil.

However it would be better if it was fragrance free, especially with the wipes as it does leave a clinical smell after use. I thought the wash is good for after wax cleansing to prevent ingrown hairs rather than using generic all over body products that may irritate skin. I would buy the wipes again definitely- good for the handbag in summer, however, it would be better if it had a more discrete name rather than ‘Kiss down under’.
Wash:
Wipes:

Margie
The product packaging was very clean, subtle and compact. The wipes were not much bigger than maybe a pocket pack of tissues and the sample of the wash (10ml) was around the same size of a lipstick and came in a silver tube. Great packaging, made it easy to use. I found that there is quite a strong smell of tea tree and mint but not overly herbal. Using these products I’ve experienced fewer ingrown hairs after waxing though I think a tea tree body wash is just as effective.

Melanie
My very first thought was…interesting.  An unusual product and different to any I’ve ever used prior to now.  Definitely unique! The wash was the fun part of the two products, application was a little challenging with the Wash bottle using a pump action.  Wet hands made it a slippery event! My first impression upon smelling this product was toothpaste and I’m not a lover of peppermint (other than covered in chocolate, that is!) at the best of times.

But it was fresh! After using the Wash, I certainly noticed a tingling sensation that lasted a few minutes ‘very clean and fresh’ and it was a ‘Wow!’ type of freshness!  The Wipes were functional and easy to use.
The Wipes have more of a practical application, and the Wash was fun, but … frivolous, perhaps. I’d give them together a four out of five.

Melinda
Firstly, I didn’t realise that there were products like these on the market.  And secondly, I was a bit nervous using it as you don’t know whether it’s going to cause you any irritation or not, because other than soap or shower creams, you don’t usually use a product ‘down there’ to clean yourself. To be truthful, I felt a bit uncomfortable using it.  Using the wash in the shower was all right, but using a wet wipe to refresh your bottom would probably take a bit of getting used to.

You have to give it time to dry or else you have the uncomfortable feeling of damp underwear. It had a very herbal smell to it which over time you would probably get used to. By using such products I guess you feel a bit fresher, but I felt a little tingly there, which got me a bit worried at first, but then went away. I don’t think I would buy these again.  In our society, we generally shower 1-2 times a day, so we are pretty hygienic anyway.  But for camping or travelling, it wouldn’t hurt to have some with you to freshen up if you can’t shower.

Evelina
My first impression was exciting as the cleansing wash packaging was really cool and cute. But I got to say I was really disappointed when I used it. The smell was great but I didn’t like the cooling sensation for my area down there. It made me feel uncomfortable because it was so cold down there. I wouldn’t purchase this product for myself in the future, because I think the price was a bit too much.

MisMo Anti-Ageing Serum With Hyaluronic Acid and Matrixyl 3000

MisMo Anti-Ageing Serum With Hyaluronic Acid and Matrixyl 3000

30ml $80.00

REJUVENATING GEL with Hyaluronic Acid is a superior anti-ageing, anti-wrinkle serum which improves the appearance of your complexion in less than a week. Your skin will look smoother, more plumped and younger.
Hyaluronic Acid is unmatched in the hydration and plumping benefits it provides to your complexion. It is tissue friendly and is found naturally in the body, eyes, lips , skin and hair follicles.

Rejuvenating Gel incorporates four super ingredients to target lines, texture, smoothness and improved skin elasticity. Skin becomes more cushioned, plumped and takes on a youthful glow. Ladies who took part in MiSMo clinical trials love Rejuvenating Gel, with all participants showing visible results in less than a week.

Early radiance will appear within a week. Any cosmetic treatments such as micro dermabrasion, peels or laser will be enhanced with the use of Rejuvenating Gel.

Active Ingredients
Hyaluronic Acid, also known as Sodium Hyaluronate, revives lost skin tone and returns a cushioned, hydrated youthful complexion. It is unrivalled as a hydrator. Hyaluronic Acid at the specifications we use has been proven in medical trials to penetrate deep into skin. It works very quickly and after approximately 4 days there is a visual plumping and improvement in the skin texture. Topically applied Hyaluronic Acid replenishes what is normally produced in the body. This supply depletes as we age. Hyaluronic Acid is also used as an injectable filler, one trade name being Restylane.

MSM works at a cellular level, softening skin and encouraging healthy new skin cells. The result is softer smoother younger looking skin. Laboratory studies have confirmed these findings. MSM penetrates the skin easily.
Organic Aloe Vera accelerates the regeneration of cells. It is also has remarkable penetrating qualities.

Livia’s Comments
As long-time readers of The Beauty Review know, I always layer my skin care products. So I am used to wearing a serum or lotion on my skin before my moisturiser so I was interested to see if I will notice an improvement after using this Gel. I’m happy to report that I most definitely did. Even after the first few days my skin glowed. I was just going through a very dry phase with the change of seasons and I found that this gel locked in all the moisture I needed and hydrated my skin, so after moisturising I didn’t need anything else on my skin. I loved this gel would recommend it for anyone.

Margie
I was surprised at the packaging, a very plain clear pump bottle and it was immensely difficult to read the instructions on the back. If I had bought this full price I would have expected something slightly more aesthetically pleasing. Had I not received accompanying instructions from the Beauty Review I would have been a bit lost as to the application. The instructions stated that one pump should be sufficient for the entire face and neck, though I had to use two or three pumps.

The actual gel, however, was great, it was light, non greasy and had a cooling effect when applied. The instructions said I was able to use it under my eyes and I found that it worked as an effective eye cream without causing any milia or leaving a greasy mess.After application, my face felt slightly sticky/ tacky but the gel was absorbed relatively soon after.

I don’t wear foundation but a light illuminator/ concealer under my eyes and this was a perfect base for that. There was the faintest chemical smell but you had to really sniff the product before it was discernible. I’m still quite young and this product is mainly for people who are concerned with fine lines and wrinkles so I can’t comment on its efficacy in that respect. However, I think it did help promote cell turnover as my skin glowed the next morning after I applied it before bed. I would definitely purchase this product, one for myself and one for mum!
I would award this gel 5 Star.

Melanie
This bottle of Gel had air bubbles in it, which made the instructions printed on it very hard to read, plus the writing was small and therefore difficult to know what you were to do with it. It was suggested that perhaps having wet fingertips may be of assistance when applying this product. I personally had no problem with the application, it was quick and easy to use. The Gel looked as if it would be smooth to use, and it was.

The smell was inconsequential as it was absorbed quickly into my skin.  It felt as if you were treating yourself. I noticed a remarkable freshness to my skin after only a few days of using this Gel, a very pleasant surprise, as I thought any claim this product made were sure to be bogus.  But my skin reacted in a very positive manner; it feels and looks plumper and velvety.  A very good product that more than exceeded this tester’s expectations! It’s also very good value for money,  with hardly any of the bottle used, I’m sure to be a repeat purchaser!

Melinda
“Smells like a hospital” were the first words to come out of my mouth when I tried it. The Gel felt nice, glossy and smooth and putting moisturiser over it as directed, it felt like all the goodness was sealed in. Even though I’ve only used it for a few days, my skin appears smoother and less lined and I look forward to seeing more results as I use it more. I think I would buy it again.  If it’s going to make me look younger and have nicer skin than I’m all for it.  With our climate, our skin should be a priority.

Evelina
My first impression was really good, because I just emptied my regular serum and came along this little Mismo in the jar. I’m quite happy with the product.  As the instruction said it’s better to wet your finger before you apply this serum, I spray my face and finger tips with my normal aloe Vera spar so it really helps the product go evenly to my face.

And after that I apply my normal moisturiser. I also used this in conjunction with my micro dermabrasion machine and my nu skin galvanic. And any other day I used it after shower with my micro dermabrasion cloth. As with the overall result I’m not too sure that I have seen a lot of improvement. For a start I don’t have many lines anyway. But I can feel my skin is softer and tighter. I’m might be considering to purchase this product again in the future.

GammaZon Velvet Butter

GammaZon Velvet Butter

A pure, natural and butterly luxurious! It’s smooth, creamy yet light texture will melt into your skin and nourish from within. This is butter you can spread as lavishly as you want…butter you want to go straight to the hips!

Available in 2 scent blends; – CocoNilla (coconut and vanilla), – MangoDusk (mango and passionfruit) Available in 2 jar sizes; – 100g A$15.00, – 250g A$22.50
Available from:www.GammaZon.com.au

Our carefully selected natural plant oil ingredients (Vitamin E, Shea Butter, Mango Seed Buttter, Jojoba Seed Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Beeswax) combined with the tropical aromas of paradise (coconut, vanilla, mango, passionfruit), create a body butter that is simply rich with aroma-tactual goodness!

Shea Butter is renowned for its moisturising properties.  Not only does Shea Butter leave skin smooth and supple (wonderful for the treatment and prevention of stretch marks), it also heals bruises and burns, acts as a natural barrier against pollutants, rejuvenates skin elasticity and less known but equally wonderful, is that Shea Butter is an excellent balm for joint and muscular pain! Vitamin E is well known for its antioxidant capabilities as is Jojoba Seed Oil.  Each natural ingredient provides a wealth of vitamins and replenishing attributes.

Livia
These Body Butters are simply divine. The very first thing I noticed was the incredibly yummy smell of them. I’m almost tempted to lick my skin (of course I don’t). It melts into the skin, hydrating it and leaving it soft and supple.  I loved using this Body Butter and recommend it happily for anyone to try. It is not only beautiful to use but also makes a fantastic gift.

Margie
The packaging seemed a bit ‘no frills’ when I first saw it, but the actual butter was gorgeous.  The application of it was absolutely fantastic; it was smooth, easily absorbed and truly non-greasy. The texture of this body butter was thick but as mentioned above, easily absorbed by the skin. The smell was lovely, beautiful vanilla coconut that is perfect for summer. Whilst other body butters in the past have claimed to be ‘non-greasy’, this product truly is. This definitely does not feel sticky or tacky on the skin despite its thick texture.

I have been applying this before bed and it leaves my skin hydrated and smooth, though the effects obviously don’t last as long when compared to greasier creams. In the morning I felt the need to moisturise again, though that may have been an excuse to crack it open for the smell! I would most definitely repurchase this product again, it works out to be cheaper than the Body Shop body butters but for the price, I would expect more thought to be put into the packaging. I think I would give this product 4 and a half stars, with half a star taken off for the bland packaging.
1/2

Melinda
First of all, I just wanted to say how cute the little noodle box packaging was for this body butter.  What a great gift idea! I’ve never tried or heard of this product before so I was eager to use it and I wasn’t disappointed at all. This body butter was a little thicker to apply than the others I’ve tried before, but went on effortlessly and had a beautiful smooth finish. I tried the Mango & Passionfruit body butter and WOW!.  It had quite a strong aroma, very fruity, but it smelt fresh and healthy which I liked very much. I certainly would buy this again and I’d buy one to give to a friend as well.

Linda
This Body Butter has a lovely whipped butter-like texture, unlike other body butters which are just like a thick cream. Thick texture, but not too thick that it’s not spreadable. It has a tasty smell, smelling like real coconut… so good that it’s almost like a loveable candy cream. After application, the smell still remains which may be a good thing for some- however I got a bit sick of the coconut smell and it became a bit off putting. This Body Butter is not much different from the other moisturising lotions and creams out on the market. I used it on my legs after a shower- I have sensitive dry skin, and after use, I found that it prevents any itchiness from dryness.
1/2

Melanie
I liked the purity and simplicity of the butter, but honestly, I couldn’t get past the strong scent.  I found it quite overpowering and thought the butter took the place of my regular scent, making my perfume redundant. The smell was too strong and I felt, too sickly sweet.  I had the coconut and vanilla scent and would have preferred to try the mango and passion fruit pot. The texture was of a thick consistency, making the application quick and easy.  Creamy and thick, this cream was easy to apply and left my skin feeling smooth and supple.  It did penetrate easily and also left no sticky residue, which was great as it meant my clothes wouldn’t be adversely affected.

I would have no qualms in recommending this to younger friends as it is a lovely product in every other way than its perfume it works well, it is cheap enough to use lavishly and your skin feels lovely and smooth after use.
1/2

Evelina
My first impression when I was using this product is how lovely and yummy the smell was. It definitely delighted my senses, I feel like I’m in the tropical island of Bali. The packaging was okay, although a bit plain.
The application is quite all right, it doesn’t feel sticky at all. It glides really well to my skin. The texture was good as it’s not too thick or too thin. But I found that the smell doesn’t last very long. It only smells really good on the first application and it disappears after about an hour or so. And the moisture also doesn’t last long to the skin. Well comparing to my daily routine of using coconut oil that I applied for my skin after shower, I only need to apply once.  With this one I can feel my skin getting dry after an hour or so, so you’ll need to keep reapply. I would definitely purchase this product if I’m going on holiday, but not for everyday use.
I’ll give 3 ½ stars

1/2