The Best Beauty Blog http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com Beauty & The Best (no beast) Wed, 08 May 2013 06:51:04 +0000 en-US hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.5.1 Swatches of Face Of Australia Glitterati Limited Edition Nail Enamel Collection http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/swatches-of-face-of-australia-glitterati-limited-edition-nail-enamel-collection/ http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/swatches-of-face-of-australia-glitterati-limited-edition-nail-enamel-collection/#comments Wed, 08 May 2013 06:51:04 +0000 Ling http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/?p=8666 You have just finished reading Swatches of Face Of Australia Glitterati Limited Edition Nail Enamel Collection which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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Face of Australia Glitterati, Face of Australia Glitterati nail polish

Apologies for being MIA, but I’m back today with some MUST-HAVE nail polishes.  Face Of Australia deserve two enthusiastic thumbs up from me for releasing yet another lust-worthy, must-have, glitter-fest Limited Edition nail polish collection  - GLITTERATI!  There are 8 Glitterati nail polishes slash topcoats and 3 of them are milky glitters!  Yes, you may *squee*!

Face Of Australia Glitterati : Funky Town

Face of Australia Glitterati swatches, Face of Australia Glitterati nail polish

Shade :  Milky violet base with rose gold hexes, black squares and black and blue chunky glitter.
Verdict :  Sadly, due to the violet base colour, it can dull down the tone of the glitter pieces.  May have been better if the base colour was lighter to allow the glitter to shine through.  I still like it a lot though.

Face Of Australia Glitterati : Saturday Night Fever

Face of Australia Glitterati swatches, Face of Australia Glitterati nail polish

Shade :  A glitter bomb just went off with a combination of hexes and squares and round glitter pieces of various shades – emerald green, silver, blue, red and purple – in a clear base.
Verdict :  Perfect as a topcoat or on its own.  What is not to love?  Would look great on top of a black base.

Face Of Australia Glitterati : Heart Of Glass

Face of Australia Glitterati swatches, Face of Australia Glitterati nail polish

Shade :  A light milky pink pastel base with all the girly colours – magenta, red, purple, white, silver – hexes, squares, bars…and wait for it…red hearts!!
Verdict :  MY FAVOURITE!!!  It’s girly, it’s pink, it’s perfect!

Face Of Australia Glitterati : Studio 54

Face of Australia Glitterati swatches, Face of Australia Glitterati nail polish

Shade :  Fine and chunky rose gold glitter
Verdict :  I didn’t think much of it at first but when I applied it on my nails, I was like WOAH!!!

Face Of Australia Glitterati : Dancing Queen

Face of Australia Glitterati swatches, Face of Australia Glitterati nail polish

Shade :  Gold hexes with black and gold glitter
Verdict :  Rather undecided about this one.  I think I need to apply it on top of a great base colour and this will really pop.

Face Of Australia Glitterati : Boogie Wonderland

Face of Australia Glitterati swatches, Face of Australia Glitterati nail polish

Shade :  Pale milky blue base with silver bars, blue and green strands with mini hexes of blue, pink, purple and orange.
Verdict :  Another hit!

Face Of Australia Glitterati : Disco Inferno

Face of Australia Glitterati swatches, Face of Australia Glitterati nail polish

Shade :  Disco-tastic mixture of mini and large hexes of blue, red and magenta
Verdict :  Great combo of colours

Face Of Australia Glitterati : Lookin’ For Some Hot Stuff

Face of Australia Glitterati swatches, Face of Australia Glitterati nail polish

Shade :  Mixture of red and pale pink chunky glitter combined with silver bars and tiny red glitters
Verdict :  Definitely hot!

3 Tips For Applying Glitterati

1.  It is tempting to shake the bottle to get the glitter to distribute evenly, but this causes air bubbles.  Instead, roll the bottle a few times.
2.  Apply a clear topcoat as some glitter pieces may curl up and feel rough once dried.
3.  Like all glitter nail polishes, they are difficult to remove.  Try the foil method where you soak cotton wool in nail polish remover and use foil to wrap around the cotton wool for a good 5 minutes.

Beauty Brief : Face Of Australia Glitterati Nail Enamel

Limited edition glitterfest collection with 8 different shades with awesome names to match
RRP : $4.95
Available now at Big W, Priceline, K-Mart
Happy shopping :)

You have just finished reading Swatches of Face Of Australia Glitterati Limited Edition Nail Enamel Collection which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Sponge-On Cream Makeup – Review & Swatches http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/elizabeth-arden-flawless-finish-sponge-on-cream-makeup-review-swatches/ http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/elizabeth-arden-flawless-finish-sponge-on-cream-makeup-review-swatches/#comments Wed, 01 May 2013 06:25:44 +0000 Ling http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/?p=8739 You have just finished reading Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Sponge-On Cream Makeup – Review & Swatches which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Foundation

Hi peeps, I’m still alive.  Less stressed than last week, but unfortunately still stressed so bear with me until I can get back to a regular blogging schedule.  Thanks :)

***

In my early twenties, I flirted a lot with a wide range of beauty brands and Elizabeth Arden was one of them.  Back then, all the magazines raved about their Eight Hour Cream and I bought it…and it was okay…but not spectacular.  Instead, my skin loved their Visible Difference range.  Fast forward a couple of years and I started to think that Elizabeth Arden was WAY too mature for me.  I still continued to love their Green Tea EDT though :P  Anyway, I am now in my early thirties and Elizabeth Arden has caught up with me again with their Prevage range and now, their make-up in the form of Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Sponge-On Cream Makeup.

Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Sponge-On Cream Makeup

Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Sponge-On Cream Makeup is a creamy-based foundation in a compact complete with make-up sponge and mirror for ease of application when you’re on the go.

The packaging is somewhat luxe with the gold, silver and iconic red door…but I think it isn’t sexy like YSL’s gold packaging.

As for the foundation itself, it provides a medium to full coverage and it’s a bit heavy for me as I don’t like to feel that I am wearing heavy make-up.  It is also heavily scented with floral notes so it isn’t to everyone’s cup of tea.

Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Sponge-On Cream Makeup

However, after saying all that.  I actually like it…but not as a full face foundation.  I prefer to use it as a concealer to cover heavy dark circles and eyebags and red raging spots.  It works really well as a heavy duty concealer due to its creamy nature and ability to mask imperfections.  It can blend easily using finger tips or with a concealer brush.  And because I am only applying it selective areas, it doesn’t feel heavy and the strong scent doesn’t annoy me.

Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Sponge-On Cream Makeup swatches, Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish foundation swatches

Swatches of Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Sponge-On Cream Makeup from left to right – 03 Perfect Beige, 40 Beige and 22 Vanilla.

Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Sponge-On Cream Makeup is available now on Elizabeth Arden counters for RRP $50 AUD.

Happy shopping and thanks for reading as always xxx

*Products featured were sent by PR for consideration.

You have just finished reading Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Sponge-On Cream Makeup – Review & Swatches which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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10 Fantastic Beauty Gifts For Mother’s Day http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/10-fantastic-beauty-gifts-for-mothers-day/ http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/10-fantastic-beauty-gifts-for-mothers-day/#comments Sun, 28 Apr 2013 05:02:07 +0000 Ling http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/?p=8728 You have just finished reading 10 Fantastic Beauty Gifts For Mother’s Day which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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Mother's Day Gift Guide 2013

There are 2 more weeks till Mother’s Day in Australia!  If you’re a Mummy, it’s time to drop some heavy hints to your partner and kid(s) and if you’re not one (yet), don’t forget to treat your Mummy – she deserves it!

To be honest, my Mum isn’t a beauty lover…and neither is my Mother-in-Law!!  Must be that generation :P  So if I bought any of the following gifts for them, they’d go WTF?  Okay, maybe not WTF? since they don’t use that terminology either :P  Instead, I am pretending what my future kiddies would have bought me if they jumped into a time travel machine – think Back To The Future meets Terminator.  Confused?  Yes, that was 2 of the movies I grew up watching in my generation :P

Anyway, here’s my top 10 beauty picks that I would like to receive from my future kiddies if they ever jump into a time travel machine!!!  The gifts are selected from the endless press releases sent to my inbox and some press samples I received which are marked with * :-

Starting from lowest to most expensive…  Hopefully my future kiddies are not stingy towards me :P

Mother's Day Gift Guide 2013

1.  OPI Grab It, Bag It and Let’s Go  RRP $29.95

OPI nail polishes are my favourite!  This set contains the gorgeous OPI Kiss Me On The Tulips and OPI Red Lights Ahead – hot pink and bright red are SO ME!!! – and a cute wee bag to go with it.  Even if you aren’t a Mum, you can treat yourself!

2.  Royal Moroccan Serum Treatment and Hair Mask Treatment* RRP $29.95 each

Hair deserves love and TLC so I’m sure all ladies out there would love this for any occasion!

3.  Jane Iredale’s Glimmer Gift Box RRP $30

This set contains Mini Forever Pink Just Kissed Lip & Cheek Stain*, Iced Mocha PureGloss, 24-Karat Gold Dust in Champagne and a Travel-size White Fan Brush* – I got to try a couple of the products in the set and they impressed me.  They are tiny products which is perfect for Mummies who have to lug around big nappy bags and don’t want extra weight with full sized products.

4.  Dr Lewinn’s Mother’s Day Rejuvenation Gift Pack* $49.95

Full sized skincare staples in a cute cylindrical pack!  Also available in Intense Hydration and Regeneration packs.  I love the Reversaderm range ;)

5.  The Jojoba Company Starter Pack $59.95

Seeing as it is approaching Winter, skin may need that extra boost so this complete skincare pack in deluxe sample sizes enriched with jojoba oil is perfect!

Mother's Day Gift Guide 2013

6.  Remington Pearl Salon Session Kit RRP $199.95 but currently $99 at Myer!

Seeing as this is half price at Myer, it is a BARGAIN as it comes with a hair straightener and a 2000W hairdryer!  I am a big fan of Remington hair tools!

7.  My Little Chloé Set $120 or $45 each

3 adorable little Chloé perfumes to jazz up your dressing table and make you smell good too :)

8.  Oscar de la Renta Essential Luxuries Collection $165

More sensational scents!  I haven’t sniffed the range yet but I’m imagining it to be rich, classic, womanly scents just from the packaging alone.

9.  Master Makeup Makeup Brush Set with Brush Roll $195

Perfect brush set for make-up loving women!  Or maybe you think your frumpy Mum could do with some make-up lessons?  Then book her in for one at $150.

I was fortunate enough to have a play with all of these make-up brushes at a make-up lesson with Master Makeup, Dean Nixon, himself.  They are all to die for and I was lucky enough to take home the Kabuki and Eyeliner brush to help me perfect my makeup skills :)

10.  Philips Lumea Precision Plus* RRP $1299.95 but currently $599.95 at The Shaver Shop!

Again, another awesome albeit pricey bargain if you can get your mitts on this at The Shaver Shop.

If your mum is a hairy gorilla, then you should definitely give her this IPL home device designed to remove hair from all over the body.  However, be prepared if she asks for your help to zap hairs from awkward spots :P

Are you a Mum?  What would you like for Mother’s Day?  What are you getting for your Mum?

You have just finished reading 10 Fantastic Beauty Gifts For Mother’s Day which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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May I Be Excused? http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/may-i-be-excused/ http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/may-i-be-excused/#comments Wed, 24 Apr 2013 00:40:04 +0000 Ling http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/?p=8720 You have just finished reading May I Be Excused? which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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Karen Walker Bunny sunglasses

Currently suffering from MAJOR work-related stress.  Wish I could rant it out but I can’t.  Stressing only gives you wrinkles so I need to stop that ASAP!  But meanwhile, may I be excused?  Will definitely try and get my blogging mojo back soon.  Le sighs.

And if you’re wondering… I’m wearing Revlon Photoready BB Cream (love) topped with L’Oreal Paris Nude Magique BB Powder (so in love!!!) with L’Oreal Paris Nude Magique BB Blush on cheeks (ANOTHER love!) and Sisley L33 Rouge Passion Hydrating Lipstick whilst testing out the Karen Walker Bunny sunnies I won as part of being a Clinique It Girl.  I’m not sure if I like the Bunny sunglasses or not…  You can call me an ungrateful bi-atch, but look at me – the sunglasses are very Gaga-ish and enhances the fact that I have a flat Asian nozzle with no nose bridge.  Gah!!!

Anyway, please send me happy, positive vibes whilst I am in wrinkle-inducing stress mode!  Thanks!  Love y’all  xxx

P.S.  Will cheer myself up later today with a trip to Priceline who are currently doing 40% off cosmetics – woop woop!!!  AND Asos.com is doing 20% off too!!  Promo code TWOUP!  You’re welcome :)

You have just finished reading May I Be Excused? which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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New Video : Make-Up Splurge or Save? http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/new-video-make-up-splurge-or-save/ http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/new-video-make-up-splurge-or-save/#comments Sat, 20 Apr 2013 22:00:16 +0000 Ling http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/?p=8707 You have just finished reading New Video : Make-Up Splurge or Save? which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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australia make-up

When it comes to make-up, do you splurge or save?  Watch my video to compare the RRPs and you can decide whether you are a splurger or a saver?

Featured products in order of appearance on video :-

  • Clarins Skin Perfecting BB Cream RRP $50 (on counters at end of May) – fantastic coverage!  Love!
  • Revlon Photoready BB Cream RRP $24.95 – instant BB love!  Lovely dewy formula.
  • Illamasqua Powder Blush Duo No. 2 RRP $39 – shades are Katie (soft baby pink) and Ambition (mauve plus glitter) – what’s not to love?
  • BYS Blush Duo 02 Colour Me Happy RRP $6.95 – intense pigmentation for dirt cheap!
  • L’Oreal Paris Color Rich Les Ombres in E4 Marron Glace RRP $23.95 – renowned professional make-up artist Rae Morris loves this – ’nuff said!
  • Models Prefer Eyeshadow Quad Smoking Hot RRP $9.95 – impressive under $10 find!
  • YSL Glossy Stain #25 RRP $50 & L’Oreal Paris Shine Caresse in Eve – I have dedicated a blog post to both of these babies and now a video too!  Love love love!
  • OPI Divine Swine RRP $19.95 – another winner from OPI!
  • Face Of Australia Glitterati Lookin’ For Some Hot Stuff RRP $4.95 – this collection is amazing but it’s limited edition so get in quick!  A blog post of the collection is coming atcha!

Disclosure :  Some of the products featured were sent for editorial consideration and I am eternally grateful for the PRs for supporting The Best Beauty Blog :)

You have just finished reading New Video : Make-Up Splurge or Save? which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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Tried & Tested Trio : Foundation Make-Up Brushes http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/tried-tested-trio-foundation-make-up-brushes/ http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/tried-tested-trio-foundation-make-up-brushes/#comments Thu, 18 Apr 2013 22:00:00 +0000 Ling http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/?p=8559 You have just finished reading Tried & Tested Trio : Foundation Make-Up Brushes which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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best foundation brushes, perfect foundation brushes, Shiseido foundation brush, real techniques make-up brushes, royal & langnickel make-up brushes

Being a self-confessed foundation fanatic, I obviously have to share with you the make-up brushes I have been using to apply foundation – Shiseido Perfect Foundation Brush*, Royal & Langnickel [R]evolution BX-55 Pointed Foundation Brush and Real Techniques Pointed Foundation Brush*.

Shiseido Perfect Foundation Brush

Shiseido foundation brush, perfect foundation brush, shiseido make-up brush

  • Shiseido have aptly named this brush “Perfect” because it truly is.  The soft but densely packed bristles create a fantastic flawless finish.  Applying foundation is a dream with this brush as I can use it to buff all over my face.  No complaints from me whatsoever.  Very highly recommended!
  • Can be used with all types of formulas except water resistant foundations – these formulas are more difficult to remove when washing which means it can damage the delicate bristles and reduce the life of this amazing brush
  • Has not shed at all and I’ve used and washed this numerous times with the mildest shampoo I have – yes I treat this brush like a baby!
  • Available to purchase at Shiseido counters at David Jones or Myer for $49 AUD or shop online

 

Royal & Langnickel [R]evolution BX-55 Pointed Foundation Brush

 Royal & Langnickel [R]evolution BX-55 Pointed Foundation Brush, Royal & Langnickle make-up brushes

  • With the pointed dome-shaped end, it means that the BX-55 can get to all the harder-to-reach areas, especially around my nose with its awkward lumps and bumps.  However, it isn’t the softest of bristles and can be a bit scratchy if you have uber-sensitive skin.  If so, try their super-soft SILK PRO range – lovely!!!
  • I use this mainly for my Asian BB creams which are thicky and balmy
  • The odd hair or two has shed, but it retains its form extremely well after washing
  • Available to purchase at the annual IMATS in Sydney which is where I bought mine as part of a make-up brush set

 

Real Techniques Pointed Foundation Brush

Real Techniques Core Collection, Real Techniques Make-Up Brushes, Real Techniques Pointed Foundation Brush

  • Comes as part of the Core Collection with 3 other fantastic brushes – from the Youtube beauty gurus, Pixiwoo
  • With its flat and tapered head, it teams well with the liquid foundations in my collection to give beautiful coverage
  • Must also add that it was a one of the Winners in the Beauty Heaven Best in Beauty Awards 2012
  • Available to purchase in drugstore mecca, Priceline for RRP $45 – that’s for 4 brushes and a 2-in-1 case + stand!

Investing in a great foundation brush is a MUST to create a flawless finish!!  Applying with fingers is messy and the foundation can get trapped under your fingernails forming dirty dried crusty bits making it look like you have been gold-digging up your nose!  As for using disposable make-up sponges, it will soak up your expensive foundation faster than  a work-free weekend.  Speaking of weekends, have a good one! ;)

Have you tried any of these foundation brushes?  What do you use to apply foundation?

* denotes PR samples

You have just finished reading Tried & Tested Trio : Foundation Make-Up Brushes which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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{Review & Giveaway} Elizabeth Arden Prevage Anti-Aging + Intensive Repair Daily Serum http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/review-giveaway-elizabeth-arden-prevage-anti-aging-intensive-repair-daily-serum/ http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/review-giveaway-elizabeth-arden-prevage-anti-aging-intensive-repair-daily-serum/#comments Tue, 16 Apr 2013 22:00:31 +0000 Ling http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/?p=8671 You have just finished reading {Review & Giveaway} Elizabeth Arden Prevage Anti-Aging + Intensive Repair Daily Serum which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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review of Elizabeth Arden Prevage Anti-Aging + Intensive Repair Daily Serum, Elizabeth Arden Prevage serum, review of Elizabeth Arden serum

When I speak to my non-beauty blogging friends around my age (late twenties / early thirties) about skincare, they always look at me as if I am crazy for using anti-aging skincare products.  They think I am “too young” – like hello?  I’ve been using anti-aging products since my early twenties!  How else can I get away with looking like I’m younger than my actual age?!!  Elizabeth Arden Prevage Anti-Aging + Intensive Repair Daily Serum is one the newest anti-aging power packed serums to hit the beauty market.  I was given the privilege to trial this for review and better still, there’s one to giveaway to one lucky Aussie reader (more on that later).

The first thing you will notice about Elizabeth Arden Prevage Anti-Aging + Intensive Repair Daily Serum is the sexy chic uber-cool metallic packaging complete with a chrome canister  - it is definitely not “grandma” packaging!  The product is dispensed from a dropper with a premeasured amount.  As for the key ingredients in Elizabeth Arden Prevage Anti-Aging + Intensive Repair Daily Serum, it has powerful antioxidants such as idebenone ester and thiotaine – which aids in cellular repair – and it also contains mica and silica pigments which is evident when you see the serum – it has an iridescent finish and a smooth texture.

Likes

  • Awesome packaging – looks cool and very hygienic (but attracts dust and fingerprints like no tomorrow!)
  • Lovely texture which sinks in very quickly into my normal / dry skin
  • I noticed a reduced appearance of pore size after 3 weeks of daily usage – YES!
  • Stabilisation of existing fine lines
  • Skin felt slightly firmer – or maybe it’s because I lost weight? :P
  • Not noticeable scent

Dislikes

  • Not hydrating enough for my dry skin so I did have some dry patches especially around nose and cheeks
  • Hefty price tag of $250 – OUCH!

I would recommend this product for (rich) ladies who are looking for the extra step in their skincare routine to help combat existing little fine lines and prevent new ones from forming and wants an overall radiant effect.  It is also a potential gift for the upcoming Mother’s Day in a few weeks time!  Don’t worry, I’m putting together a gift guide so there’s plenty of suggestions coming your way :)

Meanwhile, if your skincare budget can’t stretch that far or you want to win this fantastic product for your Mum, then you have to enter the giveaway…

 

Elizabeth Arden Prevage Anti-Aging + Intensive Repair Daily Serum Giveaway

 

Elizabeth Arden has teamed up with moi to give away their new Prevage Anti-Aging + Intensive Repair Daily Serum worth $250 to one lucky Instagram follower!  It’s pretty self-explanatory – all you have to do is follow @Xyling on Instagram and repost the pic (which will be on my Instagram feed) and @Xyling and hashtag #Xyling so I can find you.  This giveaway is only for Australian residents and it will be closed on Wednesday 24th April 11.59pm AEST.  I will notify the winner on Instagram and they will have 48 hours to send me their postal details which I will then forward to the Elizabeth Arden team who will post out the prize.  Just click this link or click the above image to get to my Instagram :)  Good luck everyone!

You have just finished reading {Review & Giveaway} Elizabeth Arden Prevage Anti-Aging + Intensive Repair Daily Serum which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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Review of FutureDerm Time Release Retinol 0.5 http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/review-of-futurederm-time-release-retinol-0-5/ http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/review-of-futurederm-time-release-retinol-0-5/#comments Sun, 14 Apr 2013 22:00:12 +0000 Ling http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/?p=8164 You have just finished reading Review of FutureDerm Time Release Retinol 0.5 which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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FutureDerm Time Release Retinol cream, FutureDerm retinol skincare range, FutureDerm skincare, retinol based product, best retinol cream

One of my favourite beauty bloggers, FutureDerm, released a retinol-based skincare product last year and to show my support for my fellow beauty bloggers, I took the plunge and purchased one.  After using it on and off since September last year, I have finally managed to gather my thoughts and opinions together for a review – hooray!!!

About FutureDerm Time Release Retinol 0.5

  • Contains 0.5% concentrated retinol, the proven most effective concentration, in a lightweight gel formula
  • Reduces fine lines and wrinkles by 30% within the first 2 weeks
  • Smooths mottled or rough skin and can help mild to moderate acne
  • Alleviates the appearance of age spots

My Opinions

  • Every skincare fanatic knows that retinol is a vital ingredient for anti-ageing.  Before even trying it, I already knew I would LOVE FutureDerm Time Release Retinol 0.5 for its potent key ingredient and the fact that I have yet to read a bad review from other beauty bloggers.
  • The packaging is plain and simple, but it’s what inside that counts ;)  The cream is dispensed by a pump – very hygienic – but it means I cannot tell when it will run out.
  • A pea-sized amount was sufficient to cover my face and I loved how quickly the cream absorbed into my skin.  FutureDerm Time Release Retinol 0.5 can be used with your usual moisturisers, but I just skipped it.  As I have used retinol products before, I decided to up the ante and use this for 4-5 nights per week instead of the introductory twice a week.
  • For the first 2 weeks, my skin went flaky like puff pastry.  If you have never used retinol-based skincare products before, you may be shocked at the peeling flaky skin you can experience afterwards.  It is normal, so please don’t panic!  Meanwhile, it meant that my skin looked rather fragile and it wasn’t a great canvas for make-up.  But no pain, no gain!
  • Once my skin started getting accustomed to the retinol, it started stabilising and I could see noticeable results after a while.

Results After Using FutureDerm Time Release Retinol 0.5

  1. My skin was smoother from all the shedding of the dead skin
  2. Pigmentation from the sun spots on my face were looking less pigmented
  3. No deepening of existing fine lines and thank God, no new ones either!

Helpful Tips

  1. Don’t forget to use super strong sunscreen during the day otherwise it is negating the effectiveness of the retinol-based cream.
  2. Only use FutureDerm Time Release Retinol 0.5 at night.  Retinoids are not meant to be used during the day as sunlight does something to retinol making skin more susceptible to damage.  (Not entirely sure of the science behind sunlight and retinoids but just avoid it please!)
  3. Please avoid using potent skin whitening products with FutureDerm Time Release Retinol 0.5 - I learnt the super hard way!!!  I thought I’d be a smarty pants and use it along with skin whitening products but oh my gosh…my skin went into uber-hyper-sensitive mode and it was sore, red, rashy…not good!!!
  4. Also, retinol-based skincare products shouldn’t be used by pregnant woman (which explains why I had to stop using it for a few months because you know…but let’s not go there today and let’s think happy thoughts even though Monday-itis will be slapping me in the face when you read this :P )

FutureDerm Time Release Retinol cream, FutureDerm retinol skincare range, FutureDerm skincare, retinol based product, best retinol cream

Conclusion

Yay :  Best concentration of retinol used, Scientifically proven (can’t argue with science!), Reduced pigmentation of stupid sun spots, Stabilising my fine lines and hopefully they will disappear eventually (*fingers crossed*), Affordable justification

Nay :  Puff pastry face until skin gets used to it, Does not play well with skin whitening products

Obviously, I still have a long way to go for my skin to be perfect and I don’t think any wonder product can take my skin back to my perfect teenager skin (yes, I had no acne and no freckles back then!), but for now, FutureDerm Time Release Retinol 0.5 is working really well with my 32.5-year-old ageing skin.  I also wish it could be used around eyes because the lines are really creeping up in that area but I’ll just call them extra-happy-laughter lines :P

FutureDerm Time Release Retinol 0.5 is by far one of the best and most effective skincare products I have tried and I’m proud that one of my fellow talented beauty bloggers is the creator!  Beauty bloggers rock!  And if you’re keen to try this yourself, you can buy this on Amazon for under $60.  Mine took 2 weeks to arrive.

And now I’m off to brainstorm a magical beauty product I can sell too :P  I’m kidding!  Or am I? *winks*

You have just finished reading Review of FutureDerm Time Release Retinol 0.5 which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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Tried & Tested Trio : Hair Oils http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/tried-tested-trio-hair-oils/ http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/tried-tested-trio-hair-oils/#comments Thu, 11 Apr 2013 22:00:39 +0000 Ling http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/?p=8147 You have just finished reading Tried & Tested Trio : Hair Oils which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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Macadamia Natural Oil Healing Oil Treatment, L'Oreal Professionel Mythic Oil & L'Oreal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil

As you all know, I work full-time in a medical-related field where blood, guts and saliva get thrown in the air and being a hygienic freak, I HAVE to scrub my body after work PLUS wash my hair.  Every.  Single.  Day.  That, in hair speak, means that I strip my hair of its natural oils and as a result, I dowse my hair every day in hair oils in an attempt to nourish it.  Here are 3 hair oils I have tried and tested.  Check it out y’all…

Macadamia Natural Oil Healing Oil Treatment

My hair LOVES LOVES LOVES this stuff!  Its star ingredient is obviously, macadamia oil – and has therapeutic properties which help rejuvenate hair.  I can totally attest to that.  I put my hair through a lot – washing, blowdrying, straightening, curling, dyeing and more dyeing.  And it would be a pile of straw if it wasn’t for this magical Macadamia Oil.

I probably use waaaay too much because I do 2 pumps a go, but my hair soaks it up like a sponge in water.  The smell is DIVINE!  I love it!

But…there’s always a but…I find that it’s only effective when used on wet-damp hair, not on dry hair.

It leaves my hair feeling healthy, looking shiny and smelling great!  Yes, the product is loaded with silicones, but I wash my hair so much that silicone overload is impossible :P

I just finished the last drop of it LAST NIGHT!!!  It is on my repurchase list, that is fo sho*!  (*= for sure)

I don’t remember seeing this range in the shops, but you can buy it online at StrawberryNet for $38.50 AUD for 125ml bottle of miracle hair loving goodness.  A tad expensive but worth it.

 

L’Oreal Professionel Mythic Oil

I thought I would love this Mythic Oil as I had read rave reviews on beauty blogs and because it is enriched with avocado oil and grape seed oil – I LOVE avocado and grapes!  Sadly, I don’t love it…I just like it.  I don’t feel it leaves my hair looking as shiny as I would like it to be.

My hair must be in the minority because it is an award-winning product and won Best For Frizz Styling Product in Your Hair Awards 2012.

Try it yourself.  It is more affordable than the Macadamia Oil – under $25 AUD for 125ml bottle from feelunique.com

 

L’Oreal Elvive Extraordinary Oil

This is like the drugstore version of L’Oreal Professionel Mythic Oil – except with better packaging.  It is in a solid glass bottle (in comparison to plastic) and that instantly makes it feel more luxe.  I actually featured this already in this beauty vlog.  This is my 2nd favourite of the hair oils featured today, but the only downfall is the smell – which is subjective to each individual, but it didn’t appeal to my nasal senses.  Le sigh.

This comes in cheapest at $19.95 AUD for 100ml and is readily available at your nearest drugstore.

Macadamia Natural Oil Healing Oil Treatment, L'Oreal Professionel Mythic Oil & L'Oreal Paris Elvive Extraordinary Oil

 

Disclosure :  I did not purchase any of these 3 hair oils but I received my favourite one as a gift from a fellow beauty blogger, Tine - thanks babe!  And the other 2 L’Oreal hair oils were from 2 different beauty blogging event goody bags.  Did I need to blog about them?  No, but sharing is caring :)  I recently went to a hair event by muk – boy oh boy oh boy!  Let’s just say, we were spoilt rotten and my hair will be putting their products through vigorous testing before featuring on the blog so stay tuned! :)

You have just finished reading Tried & Tested Trio : Hair Oils which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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Gettin’ My Freak On featuring Illamasqua http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/gettin-my-freak-on-featuring-illamasqua/ http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/gettin-my-freak-on-featuring-illamasqua/#comments Tue, 09 Apr 2013 22:00:41 +0000 Ling http://www.thebestbeautyblog.com/?p=8153 You have just finished reading Gettin’ My Freak On featuring Illamasqua which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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Illamasqua Freak perfume, Alexander McQueen skull knuckleduster clutch bag

Here are some key products when I decided to get my freak on recently…

Illamasqua Freak perfume, Alexander McQueen skull knuckleduster clutch bag
Illamasqua Freak perfume, Alexander McQueen skull knuckleduster clutch bag, Lovisa earrings
Illamasqua Freak perfume, Alexander McQueen skull knuckleduster clutch bag, Lovisa earrings, Illamasqua Box red lipstick

  • Illamasqua Freak ::: the bewitching scent which brings out the naughty side of me.  Don’t believe me?  Ask my Husband :P
  • McQueen-inspired Knuckle Duster Clutch ::: sexy, raw, definitely not for Ms Goody-Two-Shoes
  • Lovisa earrings ::: for a little bit of bling
  • Illamasqua Box Lipstick ::: classic matte red lipstick, obviously ;)  { swatched here }

Illamasqua Freak perfume, Alexander McQueen skull knuckleduster clutch bag, Lovisa earrings

Speaking of freaky things…the freakiest thing I saw last night was a man dressed in a smart suit and tie waiting for a girl.  Must have been a date.  Maybe a second or third date?  Anyway, I saw him fiddle with his balls like he was digging for gold!!!  He gave them a GOOD scratch which must have given him a little wedgie because he proceeded to yank out the wedgie-fied crotch area.  I was eating ramen noodles at a restaurant and happened to watch this freaky incident as they have large windows to see outside.  It’s not that I zoned in on his balls…I was just seated with my eyes at crotch level.  Anyway…

Moving on…

Here’s one last pic of my gorgeous bag which I managed to snap with bokeh effect!!!  How to explain bokeh?  It’s the pentagonal blurry shapes.  Photography is my new thang ;)

Illamasqua Freak perfume, Alexander McQueen skull knuckleduster clutch bag

Disclosure :  The Illamasqua products were sent as part of care packages.

You have just finished reading Gettin’ My Freak On featuring Illamasqua which originally appeared on The Best Beauty Blog by Ling. If you have enjoyed this, be sure to subscribe to our other beauty blog which is dedicated to lips : Lip Stalker. Have a lovely day!

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