Inika Vegan Kabuki Brush

Inika Vegan Kabuki Brush

Description: The famous Inika Vegan Kabuki Brush – it is one of a kind – we are so proud of it. The thick and luxurious brush head delivers complete coverage and is soft and silky to the skin. Most people believe that you can only get a brush this soft using animal hair but we’ve found a way to achieve incredible softness without compromising animals or the environment. We are very particular about the manufacture of our brushes, the wood is sourced from sustainable forestry and the hair is synthetic which makes our brushes ethical as well as giving incredible quality.

Price: $49.95 AUS
Availability: www.inika.com.au
Overall Star Rating: 

I have many brushes but can honestly say; this brush is one of the best I have used. Not only is it fantastically thick and dense, it is also luxuriously soft. It didn’t shed any bristles in all the time I have used it, putting this brush right on top of my list. The foundation powder blended easily without any streaking or smudging. It is easy to clean with no discernible smell. I cannot recommend this Vegan Kabuki Brush highly enough.

Lesley

Oh wow! This brush is So incredibly soft. It feels very luxurious. Feels just like sable – but I’ve never been able to afford sable. I’m guessing it probably contributes to the air-brushed look of the mineral makeup. I think it’s absolutely gorgeous.
Personal Rating: 5 Stars

Rosa

This brush is a nice design and size, nice weight. Beautifully soft bristles with very dense, well rounded bristle head. Having never used a brush to apply foundation before (having never used powder foundation before), I found the application with this brush to be easy and very even and light. Texture – lovely and soft. Felt wonderful on the skin. No discernable smell to the brush. Smooth even coverage, and easy to use. Very soft on the face – no abrasion.
Personal Rating: 5 Stars

Nichole

This brush is small and compact, very thick. Because it was so thick, there weren’t any real issues with blending or streaking or anything like that. It was very easy to use. It was really soft on my face which made it pleasant to use. Not one single hair fell out of the brush. I was really impressed with that!
Personal Rating: 5 Stars

Tracie

I loved the black and gold colour. Very eye catching! I knew it was going to be good as soon as I saw it and I like that it is an ethical product. Very easy application with this brush. The longer handle makes it so much better. The texture of the brush felt lovely on my skin and it didn’t really have a smell to it. This is the best brush that I have seen and I found it was so easy to use and gave me great coverage. I recently purchased a kabuki brush online but it is nowhere near as good as this one. My teenage daughters want one each.
Personal Rating: 5 Stars

Brigitta

Cute everyday lipgloss, would be good for summer because of the spf 30. Application is the traditional solid stick style, straight onto the lips from the tube, great no messy fingers needed. The product was strawberry flavoured but had a slightly funky scent which didn’t seem very strawberry like. It did seem to dry my lips out a little bit after using it for several days consistently. Texture was great, nice and smooth not greasy or sticky.
Personal Rating: 5 Stars

Inika Mineral Foundations

Inika Mineral Foundations

Description: Inika Mineral Foundations are a concealer, foundation and a powder in one. You can achieve an absolutely flawless finish without clogging pores or irritating skin. Due to Inika’s dense pigments you can completely hide skin conditions such as acne, rosacea, redness or scarring whilst allowing your skin to breathe! With Inika Foundations you look fabulous and you don’t even feel like you are wearing make up.

Pure Inika Cosmetics are so gentle that women who have suffered allergies and sensitivities to cosmetics for years have been able to wear Inika without any reaction. Inika Cosmetics are recommended by leading beautician’s, dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons; with the soothing and calming properties of zinc, mineral cosmetics are the only cosmetics recommended after certain facial work and treatments.

With Inika Mineral Cosmetics you also have the added benefit of in-built natural sun protection. Inika Mineral Foundation is 100% Certified Vegan and 100% Certified Cruelty Free.

Price: $54.95 AUS
Availability: www.inika.com.au
Overall Star Rating:

I love this mineral foundation. It glides on the skin effortlessly and looks very natural while at the same time covering any imperfections easily. The powder is finely milled with just a hint of shimmer giving the skin a healthy glow. It has sun protection built into it and will protect the skin from the sun’s harmful rays.  As with all mineral foundations the coverage is buildable so you can start with a very light coverage but then you can build it to a full coverage foundation without it looking heavy or caked on the skin. The powder is very finely milled, so the application of the powder is effortless.  I can highly recommend this foundation to anyone.

Nichole

I prefer using mineral products as I find they are better for my skin, so I was really pleased I got the chance to try a foundation like this. The packaging is a good size for handbags. Following the instructions made application easy and pretty quick. There were no issues with blending and it looked very natural, not caked on. It lasted pretty much the whole day which was good! Light in texture, a very fine powder. No real smell to the product. My skin looked clearer, and when I wore it out in the sun, it protected my skin from being burnt.
Personal Rating: 5 Stars

Tracie

I liked the packaging, the cute compact pot looks full, not like some other brands and I like that it is all natural. I found it easy to apply, a nice even coverage and very easy to wear. It has a nice smooth texture and not much of a smell to it at all. My skin felt velvety soft and it did not clog up my pores.
Personal Rating: 5 Stars

Brigitta

I have never used mineral foundation before but I heard that “it’s a part of skincare” So I didn’t put any moisturiser on before application. Big mistake. The foundation just grabbed onto my skin and looked awful. So I emailed Livia knowing that I’m doing it wrong and she explained that I do need to moisturise first, let it sit for a minute and than buff the foundation into my skin after tapping off any access powder off the brush. Needless to say the results were much better: stunning in fact. The foundation has brilliant concealing properties in that it covers up my blemishes but looks so natural at the same time. It lets my skin shine through without any heaviness and I love the sun protection knowing that I don’t have any nasty chemicals on my skin. Overall I loved this foundation and will most definitely be using this again.
Personal Rating: 5 Stars

Lesley

This is certainly a different approach to foundation. It is easy to apply. I have oily skin and the mineral makeup stays fresher for longer. It looks fresher longer and the oil takes longer to eventually come through. Beautiful soft texture and I didn’t notice any smell.

Personal Rating: 4.5 Stars

Rosa

I have never tried a powder foundation so I was excited about trying it. Comes in an easily portable container. Application using the Kabuki brush was very easy. Less is more with this foundation – it is easy to put on too thickly at first but I got better with practice. Excellent concealer properties – I was surprised at how well this worked. I was a little disappointed with the wearability, as it did not seem to withstand slight perspiration, with a tendency to cake is creases and frown lines. The texture was extremely fine, and there was no discernable smell. Overall this was pleasing as often face products can have an overpowering smell. Smooth even coverage with better, more even coverage than liquid foundation, even for first time users like me. Does not feel thick and skin does not feel obstructed as it can with liquid foundations.
Personal Rating: 4.5 Stars

Anti-Aging On Your Dinner Plate! 7 Foods to Help You Stay Young

We have all heard the saying “You are what you eat”. Yet how many of us actually eat to stay younger. Yes I did say younger. Research and science are discovering new ways every day how our food is able to help keep us younger and help our different ailments.

The foods we eat today are what our body is using for fuel tomorrow. If we eat foods that are heavy and weigh down our system and empty in nutrition, we will not have the vibrant energy and youthful looks that we want. Eating too many ‘fast foods’ like burgers and fries will not only put weight on but are also associate with many diseases. Not getting enough vitamins and unsaturated fats in the diet can leave the skin and hair looking dull and dry.

When we think of aging we often think about the external effects – the wrinkles, sagging and weight gain that makes us look older from the outside. But what a lot of people don’t realise is that we can help slow down the aging processes from the inside by eating a lot of anti aging foods.

Making sure we get enough of the right foods, ones that have antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins and minerals will not only improve the appearance, they will also help protect from disease and illness like diabetes, heart disease and cancer. So, just what are these anti aging foods?

1: Fruits And Vegetables

Probably the best foods you can eat are fruits and raw vegetables. They are loaded with vitamins and minerals and, when eaten raw, have powerful enzymes that actually help your body with the digestion process – leaving more energy for you to use on other things. Fruits and vegetables are also loaded with antioxidants which fight free radicals. Free radicals actually play a major role in aging and are thought be the major contributors to disease so the more of them you can fight off, the healthier and younger looking you will be!

2: Fish

Fatty acids found in fish are essential for preventing cholesterol build-up in arteries and protecting against abnormal heart rhythms. The Omega-3 fatty acids in particular are essential for keeping your cell membranes “fluid” which helps with a host of body functions not the least of which is younger looking skin. Thirty years ago, researchers started to study why the native Inuits of Alaska were remarkably free of heart disease.

The reason is the extraordinary amount of fish they consume. You can get these essential fatty acids from cold water fish like salmon and tuna, flax seed oil and walnuts.

3: Fiber

Fiber is key to keeping your digestive process working and it can also help keep your cholesterol levels in check. While this might not do a lot for your outer appearance, it can do a whole heck of a lot for your insides and this in turn will help keep you vibrant and youthful. It’s especially important to get enough to keep your bowel movements regular, after all, who can look energetic and youthful when they are constipated? Fiber can be found in whole grains, black beans, pears, prunes and apples. When buying whole wheat breads, don’t be fooled by the words “whole wheat” on the label, look at the ingredients and make sure the very first one is whole wheat or whole grains. Otherwise, you are not getting a full whole wheat product.

4: The Good Oil

Oil is not the enemy it has been made into. However there are good oils and bad oils. Good oils come from nuts which are rich sources of unsaturated fats. They’re also concentrated sources of vitamins, minerals and other phytochemicals, including antioxidants. Unsaturated fats are also in Olive oil. Olive oil also contains polyphenols; powerful antioxidants that may help prevent age-related diseases, lower heart disease and cancer.

5: Chocolate

Recent research has proved that chocolate has beneficial effects on human health, especially dark chocolate. Cocoa in chocolate is rich in flavonoids and antioxidants, just like red wine, tea and fruit and vegetables. Therefore, a moderate amount of dark chocolate has been proved to be good for you. It has been shown to maintain youthful blood vessels, lowers risk of high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease and dementia.

6: Wine

Red wine contains anti-oxidants, and the most important of these is resveratrol. It keeps your arteries clear of plaque therefore reducing the risk of heart disease. Drinking red wine in moderation is good for your heart, lungs, kidneys, brain and more. However it’s important you only drink two standard glasses of wine a day. Anymore and you risk the downsides of excessive alcohol intake: raised blood pressure, potential damage to the heart, liver, kidneys and brain. Over consumption of alcohol can also cause impotence and infertility, while during pregnancy it can damage the foetus.

7: Water

Finally, the last of the anti aging foods I want to talk about isn’t really a food at all – it’s water. Plain and simple water. This not only helps with the inner functions of your body but will also help your skin and hair look younger. Water is necessary for your body to digest and absorb vitamins and nutrients. It also detoxifies the liver and kidneys, and carries away waste from the body. And when it comes to digestion, it’s just not happening without water.

Fiber alone cannot aid proper digestive function by itself. In fact, without water as its partner, good fiber goes bad, causing constipation and extreme discomfort. If you’re dehydrated, your blood is literally thicker, and your body has to work much harder to cause it to circulate. As a result, the brain becomes less active, it’s hard to concentrate, your body feels fatigued, and your skin becomes dull.

This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. it is for instructional purposes Only!

MiSMo A-C-E Vitamin Serum

MiSMo A-C-E Vitamin Serum

Description: This is a concentrated anti-ageing treatment which exotically and precisely combines Vitamin C, an anti-oxidant which helps stimulate the production of collagen, with Vitamins A and E to effectively combat the signs of sun damage. Benefits of A-C-E Vitamin Serum include: Firmed, toned and radiant looking skin, Increase collagen production for smoother skin, Repairs and reduces UV provoked damage and protects against future harm, Combats free radicals which cause ageing, Moisturises all layers of the skin (Great saviour in the wind and cold), Refines pores and improves appearance.

A-C-E Vitamin Serum’s most vigorous ingredient is Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, an extremely effective, reliable form of Vitamin C. Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate brightens, softens and evens skin tone while increasing elasticity and reducing pigmentations to promote revitalisation and generate a youthful, glowing appearance.

Featuring a fantastic, complementary blend of Vitamins A and E, MiSMo’s A-C-E Vitamin Serum effectively supplies the skin with energy to fight the signs of sun damage. This fabulous, technologically advanced serum absorbs quickly and powerfully into the skin eliminating any greasy and slippery sensation often experienced with such therapy.

Size: 55ml
Price: $69.00 AUS
Availability: www.mismo.com.au
Overall Star Rating:

Personally I love serums and oils on my skin and this was no exception. The serum glides on the skin very smoothly and keeps it well moisturised. I noticed and immediate improvement in my skin’s hydration. The vitamins in the serum do give the skin a nice brightness. Overall I enjoyed using this serum and will keep using it coming into summer to reduce the UV damage the sun can do.

Nichole

I thought it was great how it didn’t make my skin all greasy and really shiny. The company’s claim that it absorbs quickly is actually true. It felt really nice on my skin. The serum was a nice texture that made it absorb quickly into the skin. There was only a slight, not over-powering pleasant smell to the product. My face was nice and moisturised in the morning, and my skin was really soft. I like how it came with a dropper to help application, it made things a lot neater and easier to apply. It was good that it didn’t drip everywhere.
Personal Rating: 5 Stars

Lesley

I was pleased to note that this serum is not as oily as I thought it might be and it soaked into my skin nicely. I like a dropper. At least I’ll get to use all of the contents eventually. It’s very economical. I felt it gave my skin a much needed boost.
Personal Rating: 4.5 Stars

Brigitta

This serum was slightly oily when first applied but I didn’t mind this at all. It felt smooth going on the skin and I noticed that my skin felt nicely hydrated in the morning. I will keep using it as I think that in the long run I will notice more benefits on my skin. The smell is very slight which is nice for a product that you apply at night. I liked using this serum.
Personal Rating: 4 Stars

Rosa

I found this serum to have a greasy feel leaving my face very shiny. Does not absorb into the skin very well so my face remains shiny and oily looking. Definitely best suited for night time wear, and you would be hard pressed to use it under your normal moisturiser. However felt pleasant on the skin. The smell is mild and pleasing. Only need a small amount to cover the whole face so should get plenty of applications from one bottle. My skin appeared well hydrated. Have not been using the product for long enough to see any longer term benefits as yet. May see better effects with time.
Personal Rating: 3 Stars

Rachel

My first impression was that the Serum was absorbed quickly into my skin.The application was great in that it went on feeling light and absorbed quickly. It didn’t feel like I was putting anything heavy on my skin. Both the texture and the smell were pleasant. It was nice to have a treatment that didn’t leave me feeling greasy. I think I would definitely try it longer term as I am getting older and it would be beneficial to add this type of treatment to my skin. 3 out of 5 Stars….it feels good going into my skin but I would like to see the long term benefits before giving it a higher rating.
Personal Rating: 3 Stars

Shizen Lip Gloss Conditioner

Shizen Lip Gloss Conditioner

Description: For serious and immediate hydration, use a little to condition or a lot for super gloss.

KEY INGREDIENTS: Vitamin E, Lemon Myrtle Essential Oil, Cocoa Butter. All natural lip balm, but thicker, with better staying power. The makeup kit essential for shiny, conditioned lips. The blend of essential oils is immediately absorbed with the shea butter, cocoa butter and honey wax providing a smooth silky barrier.

Price: $15.95 AUS
Availability: www.shizen.com.au
Overall Star Rating:

I must tell you that this balm arrived at exactly the right time for me. I was having a spot treated on my lip so didn’t want to use anything irritating on my lips.

This balm not only kept my lips well hydrated, it also provided me with enough shine that I didn’t feel naked without my lip gloss. The balm stayed on my lips for a few hours before I had to reapply it.

It was an absolute pleasure to use. A few of the panellist noted that this balm should come with an applicator and I have to agree with this.

Rachel

My First impression was that it smelt beautiful. I found this lip balm very easy to apply. The smell was beautiful and I love that it was a thick, smooth texture. I felt that the gloss combined both shine and conditioning at the same time. My lips were smooth and soft after each application and they always felt moisturised. I would definitely purchase this gloss. Its one of the best I have ever used…I loved it!.
Personal Rating: 5 Stars

Nichole

Cute packaging and small. The fact it’s all natural was great. At first I thought that I preferred the lip balm to be in a stick rather than a pot, but when I realised how nice and smooth and soft the balm was, I understood why it can’t be made into a stick – it would just melt. So then I didn’t mind using a brush or my finger. The texture was just the right thickness and was really smooth.

It was a pleasure to have it on. The product had a light lemon myrtle smell that you weren’t able to taste when you put it on, like other balms. It actually does rehydrate and condition your lips, even after it has worn off my lips stay moisturised. I really like how it doesn’t have an unpleasant taste (we all know how it is when you just happen to lick it by accident!) I will definitely be buying this again.
Personal Rating: 5 Stars

Brigitta

The balm smelled of beautiful lemongrass which was really pleasant. It moisturised my lips really well and stayed on for a few hours at a time. It has a nice shine o works well as a gloss and is great over lipstick. I liked that it bought out the natural colour of my lip, making them look very healthy. My only criticism is that the opening of the little bottle is too small so it should come with an applicator. Really good value for money.
Personal Rating: 4.5 Stars

Rosa

Nice container. Stylish design. The pot opening is a little bit too small – can make application a little difficult, especially if you have long fingernails. I usually prefer lip gloss that can be applied with an applicator rather than a pot; however application was smooth and easy.

The product was long lasting and gave a pleasant shine to the lips without looking greasy or glittery. This lipgloss has a mild extremely pleasant smell that is not long lasting or overpowering. I found the smell very pleasant and fresh. The texture is great – not sticky at all and easy to apply.

No discernable taste either, which is a huge plus! My lips were shiny (but not TOO shiny) and the application was long lasting. The product is not greasy or sticky which is a big plus for me. My lips were smooth and well hydrated after application. I think long term use of this product could produce well hydrated lips and minimise chapped and cracked lips very well. 4 out of 5 Stars (lost one star due to no applicator and small pot opening) .

Personal Rating:4 Stars

Lesley

I have never been a huge fan of lip balm, so I wasn’t overly excited. This balm goes on nicely. I used a spatula then my pinky finger. As far as lip balm goes, it was pretty OK. But I’d rather a lipstick any day. I didn’t notice a smell. I must say though that my lips feel very soft and smooth.
Personal Rating: 3 Stars

Hamilton – Lipz SPF30+ Lipbalm

Hamilton – Lipz SPF30+ Lipbalm

Description: Lipz Strawberry Stick contains Aloe Vera, Vitamins C & E and Jojoba to help soothe & protect lips. It is a SPF 30+ Broad Spectrum Very High Protection Sunscreen with 2 hours water resistance. Lipz Strawberry Stick is free of PABA, Oxybenzone and Padimate O.

Price: $3.45 AUS
Availability: Pharmacies
Overall Star Rating:

Great to use an Australian product that is not only free of the nasties but also is formulated with the Australian climate in mind. The SPF30+ is most definitely appreciated as is the water resistant qualities of it. This lip balm was fantastic to use. Very moisturising on the lips with a gentle fragrance. Make sure you not only use it on yourselves but the kids as well. Anytime we step outside we should use an SPF 30+ and this is great to protect the lips.

Lauren

This lip balm came in a nice packaging and easy to access. It is easy to put on with a nice smell and stayed on all day/night. I had the vanilla one and it had a nice smell and not overpowering or sickly sweet. My lips were nice and soft by using the balm.

Personal Rating: 4 Stars

Fiona

It seemed like the same type of lip balms I have used heaps of times. It was easy to apply, easy to use. The texture felt a little grainy, the smell was pleasant. My lips feel less dry in this awful winter ‘dry’ weather.

If it was on a counter display somewhere I would purchase it but I wouldn”t go out of my way to search for it in a store.
Personal Rating: 3 Stars

Caron

I was glad to be trying an Australian product which is free of PABA and oxybenzone. The lip balm goes on really smoothly, with a slight tingling sensation. The moisturising effects seemed to last for a long time, and it works well under lipstick or other glosses. The texture is great, not too hard and waxy. It smells a bit waxy though, with a vanilla scent. My lips felt soft and in good condition after using this product.
Personal Rating: 4 Stars

Jennifer

Standard, acceptable packaging: not attractive or cute, but presentable. Very, very light peach scent – I had to sniff quite hard to detect it. The lip balm is quite solid in texture – it doesn’t glide across the lips easily during application. I had to drag the stick across the lips slightly to get the balm onto my lips. But compared to other lip balms with high sun protection which I have used in the past, the application is smooth in relative terms. Once on the lips, the balm is easy to wear – lightweight but moisturizing, not sticky nor heavy.

The balm also has good lasting power – it stayed on my lips for a long time. The balm gives the lips a very subtle and very light sheen. On the lips, the texture is good, moisturizing, light, not sticky. It felt very comfortable on my wintery, chapped lips. It’s good for wintery lips and given the 2 hour water-resistant SPF 30+ sun protection, it would be great for summer too. 4 Stars Comfortable to wear and good staying power. With high level sun protection – water resistance a big bonus.
Personal Rating: 4 Stars

Danielle

Cute everyday lipgloss, would be good for summer because of the spf 30. Application is the traditional solid stick style, straight onto the lips from the tube, great no messy fingers needed. The product was strawberry flavoured but had a slightly funky scent which didn’t seem very strawberry like. It did seem to dry my lips out a little bit after using it for several days consistently. Texture was great, nice and smooth not greasy or sticky.
Personal Rating: 2 Stars

Revlon – ColourStay Mineral Foundation

Revlon – ColourStay Mineral Foundation

Description: The only mineral makeup with a long wear claim of up to 16 hours.
Step 1 Twist cap to release full size brush.
Step 2 Swirl brush into powder and tap off excess. Step 3 Blend powder evenly all over face in circular motions. Oil-free, Fragrance-free, Dermatologist tested, Allergy tested, Safe for sensitive skin, Non-comedogenic, won’t clog pores, Non-irritating.

Price: $34.95 AUS
Availability: Myer, David Jones
Overall Star Rating:

I have used and tried many brands of mineral makeup and consider myself a fair judge of the quality of the product. The problem I find is, when all the companies are competing with the same product, price becomes the consideration and quality suffers. I found this with this foundation. The powder is very coarse (not finely milled) and it’s overly drying on the skin and looking very powdery.

True mineral makeup is supposed to adhere to the skin and nourish it, not dry it out. In fact mineral makeup is supposed to look almost invisible on the skin and this foundation is more than obvious. I had to apply more than one coat of a heavy moisturiser for the foundation to feel comfortable on my skin and then the powder would grab onto certain areas more than others, making my skin look blotchy.
The other consideration was the brush, and I know the panellists had issues with the brush as well.
It is so tiny that it’s almost useless and very stiff making application impossible. I had to use a much bigger powder brush to apply the powder so I would have preferred not to have a brush at all. Overall I was not very impressed with this foundation .

Sharon

Cute packaging, small and compact to fit in my bag. The application with the small brush provided was a little difficult, due to the small size of the brush and it was quite firm. I preferred to apply it with a larger brush or powder puff. Wearability was great, Colourstay products are great, and they do what they say “stay”. The foundations is long-lasting and gives good coverage, you can use it alone after moisturising however I liked it as a finish on top of my Colourstay foundation, as it gave fuller coverage. 4 Stars (Great product, didn’t like the applicator brush).
Personal Rating: 4 Stars

Danielle

I liked the neat, sturdy packaging, it wasn’t flimsy at all. I was sceptical of the application method of the product but I found the brush conveniently and effectively applied the product. For a heavier coverage a full size mineral makeup brush could be useful.

Wearability is high, with the product lasting all day, remaining shine free providing an extremely natural looking light to medium coverage which blended well and concealed pores. I exfoliated, moisturised prior to use and I think that this would be 100% necessary for the product to give best results.

The product has no discernible smell and the texture though not super finely milled but was smooth and easy to blend. Very natural looking! Also reduced/diminished visible pores. I have used the foundation for 2 weeks and will definitely be buying again.
Personal Rating: 4 Stars

Fiona

I was excited to try this product as I love mineral makeup. I found the brush a bit small to get really nice even application, but once on it was lovely on my skin. The texture was great, and there was next to no perfume which is always a bonus. My skin looked lovely and smooth and people commented on it. I would buy this foundation again, even though I did sprinkle it on to a bigger brush.
Personal Rating: 3.5

Laurel

Nice and professional looking foundation. Easy to apply though you would need a lot for coverage and you can’t tell if it’s on or not. It has a smooth texture however I felt that it lacked the coverage and wearability. I like a cream foundation and felt like this would wear off during the day and doesn’t have the same coverage.
Personal Rating: 2 Stars

Jennifer

Attractive packaging – very cute and appealing. Also the packaging seems secure,  little chance of spilling the powder all over the handbag. However once opened the application is messy and time consuming. First, getting the powder onto the brush is hard and it is difficult to control the quantity of powder coming out of the bottle. When I shake the bottle too softly, I don’t get enough powder on the brush. And when I shake the bottle harder, I get too much powder and it flies everywhere when I lift the brush out of the bottle (waste!). In all the occasions I’ve tried this powder, I had to clean up my bathroom sink afterwards because of all the powder everywhere.

Powder application takes longer than I would have liked, it takes me a while to blend in the powder. I also find the brush quite stiff and harsh, and it was slightly uncomfortable using the brush on my skin. Upon application, my skin felt smooth to touch. When applied on its own, the powder did a good job in evening out skin tone – my skin looked smoother after application, although I would still need concealer to hide more obvious facial flaws.

The powder is very mattifying and drying – good for the oily T-zone but my cheeks felt slightly chapped after application. Also it made my forehead lines more prominent. The powder has good staying powder, my face stayed matt all day. The powder evened out my skin tone, but did not cover more obvious skin flaws (e.g. acne scars). It kept my face matt for a long time, but overall it was too drying for my skin .
Personal Rating: 3 Stars

Natio Gold Mineral Eye Shimmer

Natio Gold Mineral Eye Shimmer $12.00

Ultrafine minerals for crease-free, silky colour. Enriched with vitamins and antioxidants to help hydrate the delicate eye area.

Danielle

What were your first impressions of the product?

Cute packaging, lovely colour, very finely milled.

How did you find the application and wearability of it?

Application was surprisingly easy considering it was a loose powder. It goes on very smoothly and evenly. The texture was very, very finely milled and smooth without being cakey or heavy, with no discernible smell.

Did you notice any benefits from using the product?

Smooth colour, long wearing and didn’t crease when used with or without a base (I used it a number of times with success) and I have quite oily eyelids so I was really pleased with the result. I will be definitely buying this again. 4 Stars

Personal Rating:

Australis Eye Pencil

Australis Eye Pencil $8.95

“An easy-wearing, flexi-glide pencil in an array of fashion colours.” Flexi-glide formula. Simple, precision application. Intense pigment. Long lasting, smudge-free finish. Allergy tested, fragrance free. Perfect for even the most sensitive eyes. For eye defining results, draw a dark thin line of colour, starting and finishing where the natural upper and lower lashline begins and ends. For a more muted effect, smudge gently with a cotton tip or finger. Australis Eye Pencil is best applied after Australis Eyeshadow. For bold, dramatic eyes, apply a line of colour as desired where required.

Jennifer

What were your first impressions of the product?

Simple, presentable packaging. Nothing out of the ordinary in looks – not bad, but not great.

How did you find the application and wearability of it?

The eye pencil applied smoothly – I didn’t have to drag it across my eyes to get colour onto my skin. Application didn’t require much effort. Once on the skin, it lasted all day. I tried the pencil on the back of my hand to test the smoothness of its application and I couldn’t wash off the marking afterwards – I had to scrub really hard to remove it. The colour pigmentation is good – very strong and dense.

Did you notice any benefits from using the product?

The eye pencil was effective in defining my eyes & it stayed on my eyes all day. I would purchase it again as it has lasting power, goes on easily & offers intense colour.

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

4 Stars. Packaging is not flashy, but a great performer. .

Personal Rating:

Clarins Liquid Bronze Self Tanning

Clarins Liquid Bronze Self Tanning 125ml, $40.00

A new and very easy way to apply a self tanner that guarantees natural-looking results every time. As refreshing as water and as gentle as milk, delicately fragranced Liquid Bronze is the first self tanner that you apply using a cotton pad. It’s that simple! The result: very natural-looking tan colour, even for those with fair skin. Enjoy a sun-kissed appearance all year round. Beauty Benefits : -In just a few hours, achieve a superb, surprisingly natural looking tanned appearance, without the sun. -Ensures perfectly even results. -Makes it possible to intensify or maintain the tan you desire by renewing application as often as needed. -Leaves the skin soft and moisturised, also protects against free radicals.

Lauren

What were your first impressions of the product?

Very professional looking packaging

How did you find the application and use of it?

Easy to apply though you have to make sure that you don’t get it on the eyebrows and hairline as you get a mark – also make sure to exfoliate correctly

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

It has a really nice smell

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

Personal Rating

Bourjois Imperfection Concealer

Bourjois Imperfection Concealer $20.00

Bourjois Imperfection Concealer is packaged in a lipstick-style tube with an integrated mirror, and conceals even the most highly visible dark circles. Its smooth and high coverage formula is enriched in a matifying complex that is non-greasy and non-sticky. It respects the suppleness and elasticity around the delicate eye contour, and offers a uniform result without leaving unsightly traces. The stick has a slanted tip for a precise application. Available in beige ivoire, beige dore and beige rose.

Caron

What were your first impressions of the product?

I just loved the packaging; it is so cute and handy having the mirror on top.

How did you find the application and wearability of it?

The concealer went on smoothly and was quite blendable, it lasted the day.

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

The texture is very creamy and there’s no real fragrance to the product.

Out of five, what star rating would you give this product based on your experience with it?
4 Stars

Personal Rating:

What Women Want

Recent figures from the Cosmetic Physicians Society of Australasia (CPSA) show that in 2007 Australians spent approximately $300 million on non-surgical treatments. Growth of a further 10 per cent is expected in 2008.

WHAT WOMEN WANT?  Convenient filler treatments with reduced cost and pain!

So, what is new, what is driving demand and what impact are cosmetic treatments having on women’s lives? Dr Geoffrey Heber, leading Sydney cosmetic physician and founder of Heber Davis Clinic and the successful Ultraceuticals skincare range speaks with The Beauty Review.

More time, more money
When cosmetic treatments and procedures first entered the market they were in response to a demand for a youthful, rejuvenated appearance that mirrored the vitality women felt on the inside with how they looked on the outside. The success of anti-ageing treatments such as BOTOX and hyaluronic fillers proved this.

“As society shifts and women chose to remain single longer and enjoy higher disposable income than ever before, women’s desires are also evolving,” said Dr Heber.

“Women look for treatments that will not only provide desired results, but do so in a long lasting, cost effective manner. The positive impact this has on their lives extends not only to a younger appearance, but to a boost in confidence.”

Longer-lasting products offer obvious cost saving advantages for patients, plus women can free up the diary with fewer annual appointments needed. Dr Heber notes pain as one of his patients’ greatest concerns, so less regular injections and associated tenderness will also be a welcome relief for many.

“Women, especially time-poor business women or mothers, want to experience as little down time and frequency of treatments as possible,” said Dr Heber.

A few years ago, 40 year old Louise Pring who immigrated to Australia from the UK nine years ago, started to notice fine lines appearing around her lips and mouth. Having been a smoker in the past, the onset of these fine lines was of concern and she was desperate to minimise their appearance immediately and effectively. Initial treatments lasted four months.

“I could not afford to have the treatments once I took out my mortgage, so little luxuries had to be cut back. Unfortunately, this was one of them,” Louise said.

In 2007, Heber Davis recommended Louise trial Juvederm, the newest product on the market that has been clinically proven to offer results lasting up to a year or more. “Repeat treatments every four to six months can get very costly and are time consuming. It’s financially beneficial for me now to have discovered treatments that last up to a year,” she said.

Social Empowerment

The benefits of longer lasting treatments certainly save time and money however another important aspect to consider is empowerment. Western society’s perception is that youth – more than age – is more likely to be associated with effectiveness, capability and achievement.

Dr Heber explains that the first wrinkles to appear are usually around the eyes in the late 20′s or early 30′s. As time goes on the nose to mouth folds deepen, “accordion” lines can appear vertically on the cheeks when smiling, the corners of the mouth turn down and lines start to appear on the upper lip. Then fullness over the cheek bones reduces and the cheeks themselves become more hollow. “For many women, this can lead to a sense of self-consciousness and self-doubt. Cosmetic treatments can help empower women again by allowing them to look as good as they can. We all know that when we look fabulous, we feel great,” he said.

For Louise, who also had a dermal filler treatment to lift sagging eyebrows, the treatments restored her self confidence, “I can really notice positive improvements in my facial appearance, and how I feel about myself.” Similar sentiments are echoed by busy mother of two and beauty therapist, Lisa Goodin. “People often comment on my skin, and if anyone asks if I’ve had any work done, I always tell them ‘yes’ – I have no reason to be ashamed of having a treatment. It’s fantastic that I can now look my very best everyday for my job.

” Evolution of dermal fillers According to recent figures from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), BOTOX and hyaluronic acid fillers are the two most common cosmetic medical treatments available today. Two decades ago however, collagen – the filler derived from the skin of cattle, was the only filler option. “Whilst collagen gave good results in most people, it lasted just four to six months. Additionally, testing for allergy was required at least one month before treatment with collagen dermal fillers and many patients would not consider using it for those reasons,” explains Dr Heber.

BOTOX led the early expansion of non-surgical cosmetic treatments and is still the most popular treatment. However, as Dr Heber explains, the introduction of the first hyaluronic acid dermal filler into Australia 10 years ago brought a huge increase in the number of patients choosing dermal filler treatments. Hyaluronic acid fillers are made from a sugar type molecule which is found naturally in human skin.

They are used primarily to enhance the shape of the lips and fill in wrinkles around the eyes and the mouth, and trained physicians are now using fillers to add volume to the cheeks and jaw line – results previously only achieved with surgery. “One of the main reasons for their initial popularity was that these fillers reliably lasted six months or more, particularly in the lips and meant that women could avoid going under the knife,” he said. “Fast forward to 2008 and women around the nation can rejoice in news that there are products like Juvederm offering longer-lasting results.

I suspect this will be a trend we will see in the industry as we move into the next phase.” As Dr Heber highlights, longer-lasting cosmetic treatments not only aid the anti-ageing process, but provide women with a positive time and money solution, and an all important sense of empowerment. For further information on anti-ageing treatments, consult your Doctor or visit www.fullerlips.com.au to find a qualified medical practitioner in your area.

Author: Dr. Geoffrey Heber In 1988 Dr Heber commenced working full-time in the field of cosmetic and laser medicine. In that year he joined his wife, Dr Deborah Davis, to establish Heber Davis Skin Clinic.

He obtained an MBA from the University of Sydney in 1990. Dr Heber has specialised in injectable cosmetic medical treatments and cosmeceutical skin care and treatments. Dr Heber has presented at many conferences and meetings in Australia and overseas and he has had papers published in peer reviewed medical journals including the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology and the Australasian Journal of Cosmetic Surgery.

In 2001 Dr Heber established Ultraceuticals Pty Ltd. Today he is an Executive Director of what has become Australia’s leading cosmeceutical product range and a growing force internationally. Dr Heber is a member of the Cosmetic Physicians Society of Australia, a Fellow of the Australian College of Cosmetic Surgery and a member of the Australian Medical Association.

He was the founding President of the Cosmetic Physicians Association of Australia (NSW division). Visit www.heberdavis.com.au for more information.

Beauty News – November 09

Take a quick look through all the latest offerings this month that will keep you healthy, radiant and glowing not only from the inside out but all through the day whatever you are doing.

Have a look at the new look Avon and all the new offerings from Australis. Browse through the latest colour stories from Natio, Eles and Feast your eyes on the amazing products from Estee Lauder’s Holiday collection. They are truly beautiful!

Enjoy.
(Click on the Name of the products for more info)
Qcell Dual Action Cell Protection System


The Body Shop Launches ‘Miracle Treatment’

Hair Bungee

TONI&GUY Colour

Bamboo Lash and Bamboo Brow

Australis Mineral Inject Foundation

Australis Perfection Brush On Mineral Lip Gloss

Australis Colour Inject Mineral Lip Gloss

Australis Colour Inject Mineral Lipstick

Australis Cosmetic Brush Collection

SLAP COSMETICS – Mineral Make-up Has a Bright Future

Welcome To The New Look Avon

ELES – Rhapsody in Blue

Natio’s Natural Bronze Mineral Makeup


Estée Lauder – Ultimate Red Holiday Colour Story