Review : Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel

 I have been dying to post about this product from the moment I bought it but, I figured, in order for me to give an honest review, I needed to give it a little time to see whether it really makes a difference to my skin. I have to admit, the uncomplicated packaging really won me over but, I have been duped many a times by charming packaging. It's really important for me to spend my money on products that  make a difference in my life so I was definitely rooting for this water gel. 

According to Neutrogena, if you want hydrated skin and a healthy glow, this is the product for you. The lightweight formula contains Hyaluronic acid and also promises supple skin that lasts throughout the whole day. I have been using the water gel for about 5 weeks now, both morning and night and there are a few things that I like about the gel.

• The texture- It is super lightweight and not greasy which makes it easy to wear under your foundation. It also absorbs super quickly so you don't spend your precious time rubbing your face.
• The light blue pot with the white lid is , as I  have mentioned, quite a charming change for someone who normally prefers a pump bottle. I like that it looks pretty on my night stand.
• It has a comforting smell that is not overwhelming. This is important to me especially since we cannot escape any smells while wearing our masks.

• Even though the gel absorbs very quickly you immediately notice how it quenches your skin.  This probably stood out for me the most. While my skin is not particularly dry, the gel made a visible difference. I looked well rest and hydrated every time I used it.

I have to admit that I normally prefer a cream that has a thicker consistency, especially for night time, but this gel has really changed the way I look at gel formulas. So much so that I have recommended it to all my friends. There are a few other products in the Neutrogena Hydro Boost range and after my great experience with this gel, it goes without saying that I am eager to try some of them. You can find this product at most stores and it retails for just under R140.

Have you tried any of the Hydro Boost products? I would love to hear what you think about it.

TILL LATER, LAUREN! 

PS: Special shoutout to Xylon and Thando for helping me take these pictures.

Let's get Candid! Revlon review.

My very first foundation was a Revlon one. I have a lot of fond memories of that foundation. For starters: it was the first foundation that actually fit my skin tone. I felt very sophisticated and grown up. Soon I started to venture in to other foundations and naturally other favourites arose. Which is why I was especially excited to take it back to basics for my latest review. When I saw the new Revlon Photoready CANDID foundation I had no idea that it even existed to begin with. Yes, I am not the coolest of bloggers.

Although the packaging was probably the drawing card for me ( I am only human) ,  I have to admit that the words "anti pollution foundation" was the thing that ultimately convinced my broke ass to buy the foundation. Apart from having an amazing natural finish, the foundation actually contains ingredients that protects against anti blue light aggressors. This refers to the light that emanates from digital devices such as computers and smart phones. It also leads to photo aging (aging from exposure to light) and considering the staggering amount of time we all spend on these devices; I figured it would probably do me some good to have even a little bit of protection.

There are so many things I love about the foundation. The texture is so creamy and blendable that it feels like you might be spreading butter across your face. (Not that I have ever done this but still). Just one layer gives you that barely there look. Although I like to add a little extra on my nose and underneath my eyes. The coverage is also amazing to me and all without that heavy feeling. I really hate when I am frequently aware that I am wearing foundation. I have mentioned the beautiful packaging but I want to take special moment to mention the pump/tube hybrid. It just makes life so much easier for me. No leakage and I get to control exactly how much product I use. All in all this my favourite Revlon foundation so far and I am going to keep repurchasing until Revlon decides to send me a complimentary stash. HA!

This little tube of love retails for R149,95 (22ml) and I am currently using shade 400 (Macadamia). The range also includes the Photoready Candid Concealer and Photoready Candid Setting Powder which I cannot wait to dip into. How are you liking the range?

TILL LATER, LAUREN!

Ola Rio!

Essence recently released 4 eyeshadow palletes that had everyone in the beauty world buzzing. Needless to say I was ecstatic to get my hands on my favourite of the four "Ola Rio". Believe me when I say I nearly had to fight someone for it.

The palette consists of 9 gorgeous shimmery and matte colours and I am especially enamoured with the burnt orange and plum shades. The colour pay off is wonderful and there is minimal fall out which I appreciate.  The lighter shades are perfect for day time looks and the darker shades make for striking night time looks.

These 9 shades are highly pigmented and inspired by the sunset in Rio de Janeiro and I cannot wait to show you the looks I have been been creating with this palette. This is the only palette I reach for everyday.

A few quick swatches.

Have you bought any of the four palettes? I adore this one so much I'm actually thinking of venturing into the others as well. I've been brushing up on my make up skills so I'll probably (maybe)  post a few eye looks soon.

TILL LATER , LAUREN!

It's a REVOLUTION!

I remember buying my first matte lip kit not too long ago. It was very cheap and, everytime I wore it, I couldn't smile. Luckily, I have since learned from my mistakes. 

I'm very hesitant when it comes to trying new products because I always think, if its not broken why fix it? But,I was beyond curious when I saw everyone raving about Revolution Make Up on social media. Initially, I wanted to try out a foundation but, the matte lip kits had my attention right from the start. Allow me to tell you what I thought about the product.

The Revolution Retro Luxe matte lip kit  contains a lip liner and a matching liquid matte lipstick. The shade I chose is called Echelon and it's a beautiful blush shade that actually suprised me. I'm usually into browns. I love the texture because its not dry at all and I can actually smile with this one on. Bonus!  The lipstick looks and feels gorgeous for most of the day and when I do reapply it doesn't feel uncomfortable. We've all been left a little tight lipped by matte lipsticks before.

I adore the packaging as well. The black and gold box looks chic and expensive. And the best part is that it doesn't cost an arm and a leg. This retails for R124,95. How often do you find a liquid lipstick that is affordable and great quality? I love it when I can actually afford something and it doesn't leave me dissapointed. (Unfortunately some of us still have to buy our own things lol).

So now I'm setting out the get to know the rest of the Revolution crew and  I look forward to it.  Is there any Revolution products you think I should get? I would love to hear from you!

TILL LATER, LAUREN!

Winter Beauty Savers #2

Hi there!

Welcome to my second instalment of my "winter beauty savers" series. This is going to be a quick one because I have only used the product once; but I'm just so amazed that I just couldn't wait to share it. You see, I have been struggling with my hair for the longest time. If its not split ends; its breakage and winter is especially damage inducing.

I recently bought this Tresemme Keratin Smooth 5  benefits mask after seeing everyone rave about it on social media. Saying that I'm desperate at this point would be an understatement so, I was really hoping for the best with this one.

 I haven't bought the Keratin Smooth Shampoo yet so, I used this hair mask with a different shampoo and kept it on for about half an hour because I figured my hair needed a bit more TLC. I was astonished by the results however.

 The mask promises up to 72 hours of frizz control, supposedly detangles, softens and  tames fly aways all with the help of Marula Oil. Guys, let me tell you after one use I was ready to cry. 

My hair was visibly more silky. It was also more manageable and overall just looked a lot better than it had been for the past few months. If you haven't guessed already, I am definitely going to repurchase this until I cannot anymore. I have high hopes for the long term results. 300ml retails for R84,95 and it is worth every cent.

Have you used this hair mask from Tresemme? I would love to hear what your experience with it was like. If you would like me to check out your blog, leave the link in the comments:)

TILL LATER, LAUREN!

Make Your MARK

I only have one requirement when it comes to mascara and that is: I want the brush to be thin. Needless to say, when I was gifted this MARK mascara from Avon I was sure I would not enjoy it because the brush is anything but thin. In fact it's the complete opposite. 

The mascara promises to give you big and daring lashes and the packaging does not lie. While it took me a moment to get used to mascara,the results are impeccable. Collosal lashes was what I got. The brush picks up a bit too much product at first but, its not a train smash.

The waterproof formula is perfect for those humid summer days but, it removes easily with a little bit micellar cleansing water. Listen, let me tell you I was not too keen on using the mascara but,I'm really glad I did. Although the brush is, at first glance, uncomfortably big, it does an amazing job of giving you beautiful, voluminous lashes.

I enjoyed using it so much I'm actually going to go and repurchase it. Have you used this mascara? What is your go to mascara at the moment? I would love go hear from you.

TILL LATER, LAUREN!

Review: Essence You Better Work Primer

Imagine a primer that works as hard as you do. One who promises to keep you looking sweat free and instagram ready even after a work out. Now, imagine no more and say hello to Essence's You Better Work Gym proof primer.

The latest offering from Essence is sweat proof, has SPF20 and gives you an instant blur effect.  I put it to the test both at work and at my fit club and I adore it. I usually look like a bit of an overcooked tomato after working out but, not when I wear this primer which is a bonus for me. It cancels out the red look you get from sweating.

The light blue liquid reminds me of toothpaste and has a thicker formula than what I am used but, it still blends easily. I use it sparingly and I usually wait a minute or two  before applying my foundation. I feel like the people at Essence are really taking into consideration what we do on a day to day basis and are creating products that are relevant. With or without foundation this primer works and the slim tube slips easily into your hand or gym bag.

This primer retails for R74,95 and I could kick myself for not buying more than one. So it goes without saying that I am definitely repurchasing.

What are your thoughts on primer? Is it part of your make up routine? I would love to hear from you.

TILL LATER,LAUREN!

Beauty on a budget: My must haves

There is nothing I value more than products that don't cost me an arm and a leg but, the quality suggests that it might have. When I shop for make up I always keep in mind that it has to make my life easier.

In today's post I discuss some of my absolute favourite (and inexpensive) must haves. I dont have time to reapply my make up during the day so staying power plays a huge role when it comes to buying products. At first I didn't care much for primers but, after doing some research I realized that a primer is imperative when you want a flawless look. This one from Essence is especially wonderful. The Fresh &Fit Awake primer promises a healthy glow while minimising your pores. I've worn this primer with and without foundation and it looks amazing either way. It retails for R74, 95.

Another winner for me is the Essence Stay All Day Translucent Fixing Powder. This was my first time using a loose powder so I have to admit I was a bit unsure of its necessity. However, I am glad I gave this powder a chance. It gives me a beautiful matte look and keeps my foundation from looking shiny and tacky. I especially adore it on the warmer days. I bought this on sale for 20 bucks :)

Lastly, I want to talk about the LA Girl Pro Conceal HD concealer. Now this has been a cult favourite ever since I can remember so I was curious to say the least. I use this concealer every single day of my life. I couldn't imagine not using it. For the price (R59,95) its pretty amazing at covering the dark circles under my eyes.

Have you used any of the products in this post? What are your go to products at the moment? I would love to hear from you.

TILL LATER,LAUREN!

Review: Vaseline Intensive Care Spray Moisturiser

I'm not the biggest fan of lotion. Don't get me wrong...I'm not the kind of person who likes to be ashy. I just prefer a body mist or bath oil. Something that doesn't require a lot of rubbing and ultimately saves me time. When I saw Vaseline Intensive Care Spray Moisturiser I was definitely intrigued . First of all the packaging ( a 190ml spray bottle) seemed really fancy. So it's safe to say that I'm a sucker for packaging. That aside, let me tell about the actual product.

The spray comes in 3 variants at the moment. Deep Restore, Cocoa Radiant and Aloe Soothe and they are absolutely perfect for the winter months ahead. They all contain micro-droplets of Vaseline jelly which helps with moisturising and restoring dry skin.

Deep Restore

 The formula is completely non greasy and absorbs quickly and easily into your skin. They also smell and feel amazing and it makes your skin look like the sun licked it ( hello glow).

Cocoa Radiant

 I love the fact that you get to choose which scent you like instead of just having to deal with one scent for everyone. I like every single one of the them but, the Cocoa Radiant  has a bit of a special place in my heart.

Aloe Soothe

So the real question here really is whether its worth the R79 bucks its retailing for? One hundred percent! It does a perfect job of moisturising even the dryest parts of your body, it lasts a long time and it smells divine. What exactly is not to love?

Sidenote: they are on special for R39,99 @Dischem at the moment but I'm not sure for how long so hurry and let me know what you think about it!

TILL LATER,LAUREN!

Fit Me!

It's all fun and games until you see your foundation in natural light hey...Well that's definitely not the case when it comes to Maybelline's Fit Me Matte & Poreless foundation. As far as matching your skin tone, this foundation is up there with the best of them. It promises to mattify and refine pores with blurring micro-powders. Not only does it match you skin tone but, also the texture thereof.

There was so many things I loved about this foundation. After trying on a few shades I settled for number 220 which ended up being perfect for my skin. The texture is liquid but, once you blend; it gives off a powdery consistency. I would have liked for it to give a little more coverage so I normally apply two thin layers to get the desired effect.

If you have problem or acne prone skin this might not be the best fit for you. However, if its a natural look you are after this foundation is perfect for you. My favourite thing about this foundation is that it never looks like I'm actually wearing foundation, WIN!

I would definitely recommend to everyone. Apart from it not giving the most coverage, there's really nothing else I can complain about. I am definitely going to repurchase. This is probably one of my top 3 foundations and the fact that I don't have to break the bank makes me so happy. Although its only 30ml it lasts a really long time. I give it a solid 8/10.

Have you tried this foundation. What are your thoughts? If you have a blog, drop your link in the comments section. I would love to check it out. :)

TILL LATER, LAUREN!

*Disclaimer- the products mentioned in this post was purchased by me and not sponsored. The views expressed are completely my own.