Beauty News- Last Minute Gifts

If you are like the majority of people, you have left your shopping to the last minute. Never fear, we have compiled some of the best last minute gifts, sure to take the stress out of gift shopping.
(For More info, Click on the product Name or Image)

SK-II’s Pitera Gift Packs

MOR Gift Packs

Pure & Green Organics

Grown Hand Cream

Urban Rituelle Sweet Treats Sweet Delights Gift Set in Ginger Apple

Soap2GO

WOTNOT New Non-Nano Zinc Sunscreen

OPI Alice in Wonderland

Natio Tinted Lip Balm

Australis Mineral Purity Powder Foundation

Australis Pamper Palette

Gift Guide Under $60

Let’s face it! How many of us are flush with cash in this economy? Although you don’t want to skimp on your loved ones here are some gifts that are worth their weight in gold but won’t cost you the earth.
(For more info on the products please click on the name or picture)

Napoleon Perdis – Bronze Bonanza

This tempting trio consists of pressed powder, bronzing brush and lip gloss in one convenient kit. The shimmering powder can be used on cheeks, décolletage and limbs for a decadent luminosity. A little powder goes a long way, so apply sparingly. RRP $55.00
Grown Christmas Hand Cream

Evodia – Pink Frangipani Range

Available in a Body Mist with fine fragrance (RRP $23.95, 200ml) and a Shimmering Lip Gloss (RRP $10.95, 15ml).

L’Occitane Body Creams


Nourish your body with one of these blissful body creams. Discover all the benefits of Provençal ingredients such as Shea Vanilla, Sweet Cherry, Delicious Almond and Candied Rose. RRP $49.95

L’Occitane Scented Candles

Nestled in the clean lines of an elegant glass holder, these perfumed candles compliment any décor and evoke a warm and flickering fire, creating a beautiful atmosphere in your home. Choose from Vanilla, Candied Rose, Delicious Almond and Sweet Cherry RRP $42.95

Wayne Cooper Designed Cosmetic Bags Exclusive to Goldwell

There is a gift for everyone this Christmas with five different Wayne Cooper for Goldwell cosmetic bag designs to choose from. Each available with Goldwell’s dualsenses, colorglow[IQ] and Kerasilk Christmas gift packs, plus a gift Goldwellwith purchase offer:
- dualsenses Travel Pack: Shampoo 100mL and Conditioner 75mL. RRP $14.95.
- dualsenses Duo Pack: Shampoo 300mL and Conditioner 300mL. RRP $29.90

The Body Shop Black Velvet Apricot Collection

The Body Shop Nutmeg & Vanilla Collection

The Body Shop Merry Cranberry Collection

Clarins All About Lips

Have fun creating the perfect pout with this collection of lipsticks and glosses
Coffret Contains:
* Gloss Appeal – Ylang 2.5ml, * Gloss Appeal – Sorbet 2.5ml, * Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector – Rose Shimmer 5ml, * Instant Light Natural Lip Perfector – Nude Shimmer 5ml, RRP: $35.00 (Value $58.00)

The Body Shop – Limited Edition Festive Sparkle Make-Up Collection

From $22.95

Practical Gift Guide 2009

No matter who you are or where you are, getting gifts that are practical and useful and will not spend their life in the back of a dark, dusty cupboard is always a relief. Therefore we have scoured the cosmetic counters and came up with the following list of possible gifts that are not only practical and useful but also beautiful.
(For more info on the products please click on the name or picture)

VS SASSOON ECO DRY – AN ENERGY SAVING HAIR DRYER

VS Sassoon Eco Dry (VS5137A RRP $36.95) Small in stature but big on results, this dryer helps to reduce the carbon footprint by using an ‘eco-air system’, comprising energy saving dryer technology.

VS SASSOON PREMIERE SERIES INTRODUCES ULTIMATES

NEW Ultimate 230 Salon Straightener $169.95
Especially useful for taming thick unruly hair, the Ultimate 230 Nano Straightener is comparable to anything that claims to give you a good hair day.

Clinique Eye Refresher Pack

Eye Refresher – $60 (Value $90)
All About Eyes Rich 15ml, High Impact Curling Mascara 4g, Take the Day Off Makeup Remover 50ml, Bonus Bag

Dr LeWinn’s Perfect Nails gift set


This set contains: Nail Polish Remover, Nail Strengthener, Nourishing Oil and Hand and Nail Cream. Available at all retailers. RRP $49.95

Inika Essentials Collection Christmas pack

Certified Organic Berry Whip Lip, the classic Inika Mineral Foundation and a cute limited edition retractable mini Kabuki Brush. RRP $69.95

ELES GLAMOUR GODDESS PACK

Contains all you need to create the ultimate glamour girl look day and night with a soft feminine flawless finish!
Pack features; Super Balm in Sweetie, Mineral Sheer Radiance in Angel, Nail enamel in Ruby in Fuschite, Toe dividers, RRP: $89.95

Estee Lauder Pure Color Gloss To Go

RRP $65.00

Clinique Elixir Ritches pack

RRP $78.00

Estee Lauder pleasures Favourite Destination

RRP $170.00

Estee lauder Jasmine White Moss EDT

Radiant green and white floral freshness in a passionate yet elegant blend of modern and classic ingredients…the shared creation of both Aerin and Estée Lauder.
30ml $150.00
75ml $250.00

And One For the Boys

VS SASSOON FOR MEN i-CLIP AUTOMATIC

For übersexuals, athletes, career professionals and party boys alike, the i-Clip Automatic is great for stylish haircuts and will even maintain your designer stubble.
The VS Sassoon For Men i-Clip Automatic retails for $99.95.

Skin Care Gift Guide 2009

What better time of the year than Now to stock up on some of the finest skin care products and all the little bonuses and goodies that come with them in the fabulous gift packs on offer right now!
Wether you are treating yourself or someone you love these awesome value gift packs will be sure to tempt you. We have selected some of the best skin care products and prettiest packs to save you the leg work:
(For more info on the products please click on the name or picture)

Dr LeWinn’s Lineless Perfection gift set
The set contains: Facial polishing gel, Line Smoothing Complex S8 Super Hydrator and Double Intensity Night Cream. Exclusive to pharmacies and Priceline. RRP $99.95

Jurlique Joy Herbal Recovery Set

This set contains: Herbal Recovery Gel 100ml, Rosewater Balancing Mist 100ml, Herbal Recovery Eye Gel 15ml, (Valued at $244) RRP $$169

Thalgo Cabaret des Sources – Hydrating skincare

Set Contains: Relaxing Cream 50ml, Moisture Quenching Mask 30ml, Revitalising Eye Contour Cream 15ml, RRP$127

PEVONIA HYDRATING SKIN GIFT PACK

Containing Hydrating Cleanser; a rich creamy cleanser that develops a light lather for gentle cleansing, Hydrating Lotion which calms and soothes and Collagen Concentrate and Cream. RRP: $298.00

Estee Lauder Wrinkle Reduction Essentials

RRP $130.00

Estee Lauder Re-Nutriv Intensive Lifting Set

RRP $350.00

ASAP SKIN SAVIOUR GIFT BOX
The Seasons Savings gift box makes the perfect introduction to the ASAP Skin Products range for first
time users, with the daily moisturiser, cleanser and scrub in a convenient 50ml size while the night cream
comes in a 15ml size perfect for trialling. RRP $79.00

Dr LeWinn’s Ultra Perfection gift set
The set contains: Facial polishing gel, Ultra R4 Restorative Cream, Ultra R4 Regenerative Night Cream and Ultra R4 Repair Cream. Exclusive to department stores. $149.95

Clinique 3-Step

Step 1: Facial Soap
Bar or Liquid. This non-drying formula cleans gently, thoroughly. To cleanse, lather Clinique Facial Soap over face. Rinse with tepid water and pat dry. Follow with Clarifying Lotion.

Step 2: Clarifying Lotion
The difference-maker. Exfoliates to bring brighter, smoother skin to the surface. A gentle tingle tells you it’s working. Apply Clarifying Lotion with a cotton ball after cleansing with Clinique Facial soap. Sweep gently over face and neck, avoiding eye area and lips. Available in five different strengths, one for every skin type.

Step 3: Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion or Gel
Softens, smooths. Maintains skin’s optimal moisture balance. Apply Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion or Gel over face and throat all over, or just where needed. Oilier skins may need to apply lotion or gel only on drier areas, like the eyes and neck.

And One for the Boys

PEVONIA MEN’S SHAVING GIFT SET

Presented in a sleek gift box with a Pevonia Super Dry face and hand towel products include; Easy Glide Shaving Emulsion and After-Shaving Balm with balancing botanicals and moisture binding ingredients that leave his skin smooth, supple and soft. RRP$155.00

Lacura Aqua-Depot All Day Moisturiser

ALDI Lacura™ Aqua-Depot All Day Moisturiser, 50ml $8.99

For all skin types, with Ocean Minerals and sunscreen.

The Aqua complex provides long lasting moisture and leaves the skin feeling moisturised and refreshed.
Care Complex
Pro-vitamin B5 and Vitamin E leaves the skin soft and supple.
It is dermatologically tested and contains sunscreen.

Livia

I was very interested in trying this moisturiser as it is a budget cream with big claims. I was not disappointed. This is a light  smelling, light textured moisturiser. The cream absorbs easily but gives adequate moisture to the skin. it is light enough for makeup or sunscreen to be applied over the top without feeling heavy or greasy. I enjoyed using this cream and would recommend it as a budget moisturiser that is good value for money.

Rebecca

What were your first impressions of the Day Cream?
That it had sunscreen in it – a big plus, and nice glass jar.
Goes on well, nice and light, did not seem too greasy.

The texture is nice and creamy, but not greasy, and the smell is lovely.
I will be purchasing this again for myself.

Out of five, what star rating would you give this Day Cream based on your experience with it?
4.5

Leanne

I was very impressed with the packaging. The glass jar suggests a higher price-point.
The cream was easy to apply & left no greasy residue.

How did you find the texture and smell of the Day Cream?
The smell is lovely & quite refreshing & the texture of the cream is light & easily absorbed.
The cream would be the perfect base for summer, but I needed extra applications during the winter season.

I would purchase this product & I plan on looking at the other items available in the range. At that price it is a great daily moisturiser.

Out of five, what star rating would you give this Day Cream based on your experience with it?
I would give this cream 4 Stars.

Anna

I liked the container, the frosted jar was pretty.

How did you find the application and use of the Day Cream?
Applied very smoothly – almost liquid-y.  Sank in almost straight away without leaving a greasy film.
Pleasant refreshing smell, not too overpowering.  Very smooth texture, not at all greasy.

Did you notice any benefits from using this Day Cream as opposed to other creams you have used in the past?
This cream was very nice to apply, but wasn’t quite rich enough for my skin to use on its own.  I used it in conjunction with a serum and a sunscreen and this was great.

If Price would be of no concern, would you purchase this Day Cream for yourself in the future?
Definitely – this is a great product for the price.
4 Stars – not quite rich enough for my skin, plus you still need to use sunscreen too.

Michelle

What were your first impressions of the Day Cream?
I didn’t really like the scent of this cream, it was a bit strong for a face cream and it seemed quite runny compared to creams I generally use.

How did you find the application and use of the Day Cream?
The application and use was fine, it felt nice going onto my skin and absorbed well. However after a few minutes my skin felt a bit tight and dry although it didn’t look dry.
I found the texture was good to apply although it seemed runnier than others I have used, I didn’t like the smell, I found it too strong.

If Price would be of no concern, would you purchase this Day Cream for yourself in the future?
I wouldn’t buy this for myself because I think I need something a bit richer for my skin and I didn’t like the smell.

2 Stars

Cheryl

What were your first impressions of the Day Cream?
I was surprised at the colour, it did not create a good impression because I am used to white creams, which I think give the impression of purity. The blue was not appealing.

How did you find the application and use of the Day Cream?
The cream was easy to apply, went on smoothly and did not leave any sticky feeling. The texture was smooth.  The cream was not moisturising enough for my skin, I need something more hydrating.

If Price would be of no concern, would you purchase this Day Cream for yourself in the future?
No, the colour and the moisturising level would make me decide not to buy this product.
2 Stars

Pink Hibiscus – Body Cocoon

Pink Hibiscus Body Cocoon, 250mL $25.00

Enriched with Vitamin E, Shea Nut Butter and Chamomile Extract, your skin is sure to thank you. Organic Lavender, Palmarosa, Geranium, Patchouli, Sandalwood and Vetiver make up this blend of hand whipped cream that is designed to nurture your senses as well as your body.

Livia

The initial reaction to this cream is to the smell of it which is a very pleasant although quite strong herbally scent. This smell stays on the skin for a reasonable amount of time as it is all essential oils. I personally loved it and found it very pleasing to use.

The second thing to notice is the light, whipped consistency of the creme. This makes application and use of the product very pleasant and gives the skin a light coating which is just enough to moisturise without being heavy on the skin. Overall this is a lovely body cream that is very pleasant to use and good for the skin.

Cheryl

What were your first impressions of the Moisturiser?
I was not impressed, the wording about Hibiscus put me off, I felt it would be a very ordinary product.

How did you find the application and use of the Moisturiser?
The moisturiser was smooth and silky and a joy to apply! It has a great texture, easy to apply and left my skin feeling great, without being sticky or wet feeling.
This is a great moisturiser is made an instant improvement to my skin which is very dry. It lessened the appearance of some scaring, it hydrated my skin and it no longer looks like a dead snakes skin

If Price would be of no concern, would you purchase this Moisturiser for yourself in the future?
Yes, this is an excellent product that I will be happy to purchase.
5 Stars

Leanne

What were your first impressions of the Moisturiser?

I found the packaging cheap looking especially considering the price.  The moisturiser was simple to apply although it took a little while to absorb fully.

How did you find the texture and smell of the Moisturiser?

The smell is really lovely. It has subtle layers of fragrance which last all day. The cream is silky & the whipped technique used gives it a light feel. Due to the essential oils in the cream, the fragrance really lifted my mood & the moisturising factor has certainly helped my winter-worn legs.

If Price would be of no concern, would you purchase this Moisturiser for yourself in the future?

I would buy this product after using it, but the packaging needs a make-over.
I’m giving it a 4 Star, with nicer packaging it would be a 5.

Maureen

What were your first impressions of the Moisturiser?
Once I saw the list of ingredients on the label, I thought it was going to be very smelly (and I was right!). The label is a little busy and gives off a home made vibe.
Application was very easy, and it was absorbed quite rapidly, although it did leave a slight greasy feel.

How did you find the texture and smell of the Moisturiser?
The texture is very light like whipped cream. The smell is the big drawback for me, as the oils especially the sandalwood and patchouli oil are really noticeable. It’s not an unpleasant smell in itself, but it is very strong.
This really felt like it was doing me good. I tried it on a patch of dry skin that I’ve had for quite some time and it is very close to normal now. I usually use body moisturiser to fight static electricity, and I found this to be excellent for the job and very long lasting even when compared to more expensive creams.

If Price would be of no concern, would you purchase this Moisturiser for yourself in the future?
I think I would keep a jar in the cupboard, but I wouldn’t be using it daily primarily because of the smell. I’d just keep it for when my skin was feeling dry or sunburnt and use it at night.

As a moisturiser I’d give it 5 out of 5, but with the smell that comes down to 3 out of 5.

Michelle

I liked the packaging and look of the cream.
The cream absorbed well and left my skin feeling soft.

How did you find the texture and smell of the Cream?
The texture of the cream was great, made it easy to apply and it absorbed well into my skin and wasn’t greasy at all. I wasn’t that keen on the smell of the cream, it wasn’t too strong which is good but I generally like more natural smelling creams.

Did you notice any benefits from using this Cream as opposed to other creams you have used in the past?
This cream was better than quite a few creams I have used but not the best.

If Price would be of no concern, would you purchase this Cream for yourself in the future?
I would buy this in the future, and would be interested to see if it comes in different scents.
3 Stars

Quyen

The tub of 250g of body lotion looks very light and that it would absorb into the skin very quickly.  Because of that reason, it would be assume a generous amount is required to ensure that the skin is left supple.

How did you find the application and use of the Moisturiser?
The cream is very light and upon first application, it is very invigorating and the lavender-sandalwood fragrance feels like you’ve just stepped out of a fancy day-spa.  It is absorbed into the skin quite quickly and a generous amount will leave the skin supple.  As a moisturiser, it is very enriching however, my skin became very itchy as the day went by and by the end of the day, a different moisturiser was required to soothe my skin.

How did you find the texture and smell of the Moisturiser?
The cream is light and is of a rich lavender-sandalwood scent that would easily be used in many day spas.
Even though it smells very nice, I wouldn’t use this moisturiser again as it had caused my skin to itch.

If Price would be of no concern, would you purchase this Moisturiser for yourself in the future?
For the volume of cream and the presentation of the tub, it would appear to be quite pricey for a body lotion but as it made my skin break out, I wouldn’t be purchasing this product again.

As this product is not suitable for my skin, I would give this product  1.5 Stars out of 5 for its fragrance properties.

Shizen Salve All Over Balm

Shizen Salve All Over Balm 40ml $21.95

All over serious moisture.
An excellent herbal healing salve for cuts, bites, bruises, sores, cracked skin, itches/rashes, diaper rash & burns. Your all natural soothing balm for skin protection from cracked lips, sunburn and dry cuticles. Unlike petroleum based products, which act as a barrier, this all natural formula can be totally absorbed by the skin.

How to Use: Rub over your nails and cuticles to soften, heal and condition the skin. Smooth over eyebrows to help keep them in place and well under control. Blend over delicate eye area to help sooth and moisturise the skin. Apply to sunburn to sooth skin. Massage over your dry elbows, knees and heels for super soft, nourished skin. Blend over your face for use under your foundation for the perfect tinted moisturiser. Note to users: New Improved smoother formula.
NOTHING TO HIDE INGREDIENTS
Castor Seed Oil, Lanolin, Shea Butter, Lemon Myrtle Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Lime Oil, Vitamin E, Chamomile Extract, Rose Geranium Oil.
SKIN TYPE : ALL

Livia

I must start by saying that I have never been a huge fan of Salves in the past and was wondering how and when I was going to use this product. I needn’t have worried. As soon as I have opened the tube the first thing I noticed was the smell which was a herbaly citrus scent. I personally enjoyed this scent however I can see where this might be an issue with some.

The texture of the salve was quite thick and slightly oily which I enjoyed. I am fanatical about putting creme on my feet and heels to prevent cracked heels and this salve was the perfect product for it. Not only did my skin soften up on my heels but the rest of my feet were well moisturised as well. Because of the thick texture of the salve, I found I only had to use a small amount of product and work it well into my skin.

Next I tried it on my elbows with very pleasing results and finally on my lips instead of lip balm and it worked well there too. Overall this is a great product with very fine ingredients that is worth a try.

Linda –

At first I thought I wasn’t going to like it because I didn’t like the smell.

How did you find the application and use of the Balm?

I was glad I did use it, it was really good on the soles of my feet and cracked skin. I used it also on my lips when we went out on the boat.

How did you find the texture and smell of the Balm?

I didn’t like the smell very much, a bit sickly for me. The texture was pretty thick, but worth it. Even though I did like it, other creams have worked pretty much as good.

Out of five, what star rating would you give this Balm based on your experience with it?
5 out of 5

Rebecca

What were your first impressions of the Balm?
I love that it contains so many natural ingredients and can be used for so many things. Great packaging too.

How did you find the application and use of the Balm?
Nice and thick, gives a good cover. Love the lemony smell.

Can be used for lots of different things, wish it had been around when I had babies.  Looking forward to seeing if it works on sunburn.
I will be purchasing this again.
5 Stars

Leila

What were your first impressions of the Balm?
The packaging looks really good. Very modern and funky.  The cream really nice and thick.
Very easy to squeeze out the balm. It’s very rich and really does the trick to soften the skin.

THow did you find the texture and smell of the Balm?
The texture is very thick and rich feeling.  It does leave your skin a bit oily though, however it seems to penetrate into the skin after a few minutes. The balm has a subtle smell of lemon, subtle but pleasant. Makes my lips smoother and also softens my dry hands.

If Price would be of no concern, would you purchase this Balm for yourself in the future?
Maybe. There is another product on the market which I do use at the moment which is cheaper and is exactly the same apart from the smell (the other product does not have the lemon-ish smell).
3.5 Stars

Anna

What were your first impressions of the Balm?
Compact tube – nice design and silvery colour.  Would be a great size to carry in a handbag.

How did you find the application and use of the Balm?
I tried it out on some dry skin on my elbows – the balm went on very thickly and stickily, and didn’t sink in readily.  I wouldn’t put this anywhere near my face.

How did you find the texture and smell of the Balm?
FAR too thick and sticky.  The smell was quite pleasant.

Did you notice any benefits from using this Balm as opposed to other creams you have used in the past?
NO.  I hated the texture so much I washed it off right away.  I even asked my partner to try it on his cracked soles and heels, and he thought it was really horrible and washed it off too.
I have other salve products that I would use before this, which are thick and heavy without being sticky.

Out of five, what star rating would you give this Balm based on your experience with it?
0 Stars.  I wouldn’t buy it or recommend it at all.  Which is a pity, as Shizen’s Hand Cream is marvellous.