Youtube - Violet Box - October Review

I have taken to YouTube to talk about what I received in this months Violet box! I would love for you to check it out and let me know your thoughts. 

Until Next Time,
Beck xxx

GHD - Style Heat Protect Spray

If you have ever watched a hair tutorial on YouTube you will hear how important heat protection is.

I will admit, I am slightly lazy where the application of heat protection is concerned however, I've recently started using the GHD Style - Heat Protect Spray and I’ve noticed a real difference in my hair.

I received this in a sample box a while back and never really gave it the time of day because… you know how it is. One day I decided to get fancy and use it, and while I didn’t necessarily notice a difference in the condition of my hair, I did  notice a difference in the actual finished product of my hair. I had less fly aways, and it seemed to have more of a shine.

This particular spray smells amazing – I’m a massive fan of the scent. Its fruity and has a slight hint of the fresh shower scent – which I adore!

It retails for around $24.00 and I will definitely be repurchasing this product when I’m out.

Has anyone tried any other heat protectants that they adore?

Until Next Time

Beck

Rimmel London - Wake Me Up Concealer

In the color 030 Classic Beige

If you are anything like me, you will probably have a deep seeded hatred for Mondays. I'm not sure why I have this negative feeling but I put it down to the lack of sleep I get. Come Monday morning, instead of looking all refreshed and awesome, I'm generally more of a hot mess.

To try and combat this I recently purchased the Rimmel London Wake Me Up concealer!

I have tried the Wake Me Up Foundation (Look-e Here) but due to the sparkle, I feel as though its not always appropriate for the office. My office is rather casual so such a dewy finish is sometimes overstated, so I thought the concealer would be the happy medium.

I like this product, however, for me I don't know that it actually conceals, rather highlights. I use this under my eye and down my nose and it gives these areas a brighter finish.  It somewhat hides those pesky under eye circles and just brightens up the area.

I have to say though, when I first purchased it, I used it on blemishes and any redness I had, but I found rather than concealer these areas, it highlighted them more - which was not cute. So If you are looking for a product to strictly conceal, this probably isn't the best for you. 

It retails for around the $15 mark - which isn't too high considering it is a larger tube of product. 

All in all, even though I don't think it really 'conceals' I really like this product. Not sure if I will repurchase as yet, but a little goes a long way so don't think I will need to any time soon. 

Until Next Time, 
Beck xxx

Lush Lip Scrub - My Boy Lollipop, Bubblegum Flavor

Sweet Sweet Goodness! My New Love!

 This may sound creepy, but lips are one of the first things I notice about people. There is nothing worse than looking at people with manky, cracked, dry lips.

To avoid said manky, cracked lips, I recently purchased the lip scrub from 'Lush' in the flavor 'My Boy Lollipop' which is a bubblegum flavor.

As you can see, the packaging is just your standard lip tub - which is a good. It's 25grams and it's actually really sturdy. 

I wont lie, when you open this - the scent is amazing! Imagine a lolly shop with free samples everywhere! - this is what you smell. You know everything smells better when its free and to be honest, the product could be complete rubbish and I'd be in love from the scent alone!

Luckily for me however, it is amazeballs! It really exfoliates my lips and leave's them feeling smooth and smelling of amazingness!(What would a post from me be without the creation of a word or two) The only problem - I kinda want to eat it, like all of it, with the possible use of a spoon. I kid, but really - It smells good enough to eat!

This retails for $9.95 and also comes in another flavor 'Mint Julips - Pepperminty Scrub'. 

I will definitely be repurchasing this when I run out!

Has anyone used any other scrubs that I should check out?

Until Next Time, 
Beck xxx

Mini Lunch Time Haul

I am going to put it out there and say it - This week has been terrible!!

When my friend needed to go to priceline on our lunch break, I couldn't refuse. 

I will start this post by saying: Hello, My name is Beck and I have a problem - I am addicted to shopping, and not just any shopping but shopping for beauty supplies! 

So off we went to Priceline, I had every intention of just buying face wipes. Random I know, but I always like to keep a packet in my purse and mine had run out today so I needed to stock up STAT!

Once I got there, I knew I was fighting a losing battle so thought I would share with you the goodies I picked up. 

I will say this, Maybeline are having a 50% off sale - which lightened or lessened the blow on the wallet.

Yes this has been instagramed!

Maybeline Dream Pure BB Cream – For Combination Oily Skin. – On sale for $7.97

This BB Cream is all the rage on youtube and other blogs at the moment so I was really interested to try it, however, its been sold out at every priceline I've gone to. So when I saw the baby on the shelf I grabbed it! I got the color light, because…well I'm pretty pale! I will do a separate review on this shortly.

Maybeline Color Whisper – On sale for $7.47

I got the color 45 – Who wore it Red-er. I have heard so much hype about these products that I had to try it. This color seems to be one of the more pigmented from the range they had there.

Maybeline Super Stay Lip Liner – On sale for $7.47

I chose the color 46 – Red. I have been sporting a red lip a lot of late and haven’t been able to find a rep lip liner I like. With this being on sale I thought I’d give it a go.

FINALLY THE PRODUCT I WENT FOR

Be Fresh Makeup Wipes - $4.99

I haven’t tried these before, but thought for the price I thought id try them out! I got the ‘sensitive skin’ formula, I find this to be the safer option when trying new brands.

So that's basically it! Is there anything I should be checking out next time I head to Priceline?

Until Next Time

Beck xxx

Beckham Signature - Perfume Review!

Shes pretty.. no?

I am just going to put it out there - I love David Beckham. I also really love Victoria and how she has transformed over the years.

When I saw ‘Beckham Signature’ on sale for $19 at Priceline it made sense for me to grab it and try it out!

First of all - I got the 50ml bottle and I think this design is really adorable. It isn't too complex or too fancy. It is your standard perfume bottle, which I think is nice. There is subtle metal detailing for the name plate on the front and they have created a lid to go with this theme. There is a slight floral pattern on the back of the bottle that really just gives the packaging a nice springtime feel. I'm a massive fan of the colour purple so naturally, this bottle sits well with me!

Now to the scent - I personally love it! In saying that I feel as though this wouldn't be everyone's cup of tea.

 It is fruity with a hint of tang so it's not too sweet. It definitely reminds me of a summer/spring time scent as its light and fresh and reminds me of a cute floral skater dress! (does that even make sense)

For me, it is incredibly noticeable without being too overpowering. It lasts on my skin for a long time, which for me means I rarely have to reapply throughout the day!

I'm really happy with this impulse purchase. Not sure if I'm happy enough to repurchase, but for now I'm enjoying it!

Have you tried any of the other 'Beckham' fragrances?

Until Next Time, 

Beck xxx

Fitness Update - Weekly Challenge #1

Preach Girl!

This is a different type of post than you would normally see from me BUT I have just come home from an amazing Personal Training session and I felt the need to write about some exciting new plans I have in relation to my fitness goals. 

A bit of a back story for you. I currently live super far away from my work - When I say super far, I'm really not being precious. At minimum it's 2hrs ONE WAY! Craycray right? 

Well, what this means is, I cant always get to a gym. By the time, I get to work, finish work, get home etc etc I have often done a 14hr day before dinner is even on the table.

So my amazing trainer (Ben at Anytime Fitness - he's a keeper) has come up with a great idea to help me stay on track with my goals. He also suggested I write about it somewhere so I can put it out into the universe - He's into that whole hippy new age universe stuff, and to be honest... secretly I kinda dig it!

So each Wednesday night When I come home, I will tell you all how my challenge for the week went and also, what my new weekly challenge is! Seems simple enough... right?

So for Week 1 the challenge its fairly simple:

Near my work there is a massive stair case. There are around 60 steps. I have to go up and down this, 3 times all at once! 

Seems simple enough right - I suppose its good to ease myself in for the first week.

The good thing with this is its a simple mindless task. The difficult thing - I'm extremely unfit and, well, really hate stairs. But, I am feeling empowered and determined. Also, I now have this post to keep me motivated!

I will return next Wednesday to write about my progress and to discuss my new challenge.

Does anyone have any challenge ideas? I'm up for suggestions to bring to the party! (Why did the Venga Boys just pop into my mind...?)

Until Next Time, 
Beck xxx

Rimmel London - Natural Bronzer

It is no secret that we are in the middle of a very chilly winter here in Sydney. However, if you ask me, that is no reason not to bust out the bronzer! (I love me a good bronzer)

I thought I would share with you my absolute favorite bronzer that I have been using just about every day lately!

Excuse the Bad picture - This bad boy has been going strong since Feb!

People meet Rimmel London - Natural Bronzer!  Bronzer meet all the people!

Now we have the awkward introductions out of the way, let me tell you why I love this product so much.

Firstly, I will let you know I have the color 025 Sun Glow. Now, I wont lie to you - it most definitely was not love at first sight with this product.

It was given to as a Christmas gift and the packaging (which is the only thing I hate about it!) really deterred me from using it for a few good months. Eventually I gave in, and I have never looked back!

The color is warm, and has extremely good color pay off. You don’t need much to get a good amount of product, however, it isn’t so thick that you look like you you have been for a weekend with the cast of Geordie Shore.

There is minimal shimmer, which for me is a big plus as I can also use it to contour rather than just as purely a bronzer.

 

It retails for around $12 however, you can always get a discount by going to the cheaper outlets like Discount Chemist Warehouse or looking on Asos – the Rimmel London range there is always a lot cheaper!

Do you have any bronzer's to recommend?

Until Next Time

Beck xxx

Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Xtreme Wear - Wet Cement

If you have read my blog before, you will know I am a massive fan of Sally Hansen nail polishes. You will also see, it's been some time since I have blogged.

I thought I would ease myself back into my blogging groove by sharing my NOTD with you all!

So much love for this polish right now!

If there was such a thing as a Holy Grail nail polish (is there?) for me, this would be it! This is the Sally Hansen Xtreme Wear Hard as Nails in the color Wet Cement. 

This polish lasts for days and days without chipping - it actually fades before it chips. It somewhat strengthen the nails, which is something I need and love!

It retails for around the $6 mark from all the regular places.

I am such a fan of this range - I have a few shades and absolutely adore the formula!

I Hope you have all been well and I promise I won't leave it so long between posts in the future!

Until Next Time,

Beck xxx

Chanel Hydra Beauty Creme

I thought I'd share my Holy Grail Moisturizer - Chanel Hyrda Beauty Cream.

 I have been using this moisturizer for around a year and I absolutely love it! I have repurchased it once and I use it each night. It's a bit (perhaps a bit is an understatement) on the expensive side, however, I feel for my skin, its worth forking out the extra money.

During the winter months my skin gets extremely dry, which leads to irritable, red skin so a good moisturizer is a must for me. 

Rather than rant on about the product, I thought I'd mix up my formatting and give you all a pro and con list!

Pro:

• The Product, as the name suggests, it really hydrates the skin without leaving it super oily.
• It smells great!
• You only need a small amount to cover a large area
• It gives my skin, particularly the cheek area, a nice soft finish.

Con:

• The product is expensive - it retails for around the $90 mark for 50grams.  This could be enough of a 'con' to deter you.
• If you use too much, it can leave your skin feeling oily. 
• The packaging doesn't really reflect the hefty price tag. 
• The scent isn't everyone's 'thing' - its slightly fruity with hints of aloe (Does that even make sense? 

Personally, even considering the price tag, I can't speak highly enough of this product, I love it!

Having said that, my bank account would love if you have any cheaper alternatives that will help my skin. Any Suggestions?

Until Next Time, 
Beck xxx

May Favourites Video

So I FINALLY got my act together and filmed a YouTube Video. Here's hoping this video gets me back into the swing of things. 

Please excuse the poor quality and bad editing - Im still learning. 

Also, please excuse the weird breathing (haha) I have a sinus infection, so sound like a weird, morbidly obese smoker. 

Either way Enjoy!

Until Next Time
Beck xxx

Garnier BB Cream - Combination & Oily Skin

 

I am a little bit late to the party with this post but thought I would share my thoughts on the Garnier BB Cream for combination & Oily Skin. 

I have been using this product for a little over a year now. I tried it when it first come out mid 2012 and despite the mixed reviews from the Australian Beauty Community, I really loved it.

I am in the color light which blends into my skin nicely without looking too light or too dark.  

If you have read any other reviews on this BB Cream, you will read it has a slightly runny consistency, however,  I don’t mind that so much, as it makes it easier to blend in, and my skin really absorbs the moisture of the product.

The packing is nothing fancy, which once again, for the purpose of this product I love. Being a plastic tube, I can just put it in my bag and go and not worry about spilling or any broken bottles.

I try to keep application fairly simple. I put some product on parts of my face and then just use my hands to blend it into my skin.

The only downside to this product is that it will occasionally leave me with a slightly oily finish and of course the runniness (is that even a word?) can be a bit of a pain if you don’t put the lid straight back on.

All in all I am a massive fan, and have repurchased MANY times!

What are your thoughts OR what are some other BB Creams I should try

Until Next Time

Beck xxx

Revlon - Just Bitten Kissable Lip Balm Stain

The packaging is actually a beautiful vibrant pink!

It’s no secret I love a bold lip! It can give a nice finish to ANY makeup look.

  

I recently picked up the Revlon Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stain (not to be confused with the plain lipstain) in the color Sweetheart Valentine. Let me tell you - This product is amazing!

The initial color is super pigmented and incredibly easy to apply. The product is crème based rather than many of the ‘texta type’ lip stains that are around at the moment.

Excuse the dodgy pic - but you get the idea! This color is BRIGHT!

The initial boldness doesn’t last the longest of time (about as long as a normal lippie) However, the product leaves a nice color on the lip which lasts a super long time. 

The packaging is great! It is a strong plastic tube and the actual stain is a twist up crayon, which allows for easy application. 

The product retails for around $17.95 however, I picked it up at the ‘Chemist Warehouse’ 50% off sale, so grabbed it for around $9.

I will definitely be trying more colors in this range. I am in love with this product!

Can anyone recommend any other shades I should try?

Until Next Time,

Beck xxx

My First Fitness Post!

It is currently Sunday the 19^th of May 2013 at approximately 9pm and it has just hit me – the City2surf is in exactly 12 weeks!

Although 12 weeks seems like a long time, it's actually really close. Hence the blog post!

I have recently started a new healthy lifestyle program with the help of the gym (I go to Anytime fitness) and my personal trainer Claire. I thought, what better way to keep track of my progress than via my blog and my YouTube channel.

I have decided, that each Sunday, I will film and upload a video to my YouTube channel and discuss my weekly progress. I will also discuss any challenges I face, what I’m loving/hating and just a basic rant from me. I also wanted to open my blog up to any new fitness things I find interesting. Be it a new piece of clothing, a class or a recipe. I want the freedom to post that sort of stuff on here.

I hope you all can wish me luck in this new journey – I wont lie, I am crazy nervous.

Has anyone reading this blog completed the city2surf before? Am I crazy for doing it? Who knows!

Wish me Luck!!

Until Next Time

Beck xxx

Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Xtreme Wear Nail Color - First Blush

If you can't tell from my previous posts, I'm currently going through a pink/pastels phase. I'm not sure why, as I'm normally more adventuresome with my color choices, but lately, I just can't get enough of the pinks.

I recently picked up this Sally Hansen Hard as Nails Xtreme Wear Nail Color from Chemist warehouse for only $4.95. I picked up the color First Blush.

I won't lie, I think it may be love! The packing is cute which I really love. I like how the bottle is 'slim' as it makes it easier to hold when you are fixing a nail on the go. The brush is a great size for application and the polish has a nice shine.

The only downside to this color, is that it isn't terribly opaque. However, I'm certain that it's just this color as I have other colors from the same range and they are beautiful.

The polish has AMAZING staying power - It fades before it chips which is a massive PLUS in my books

I highly recommend this polish if you are looking for a nice natural nail. Also, the Sally Hansen line is amazing so if pink isn't your color - I strongly recommend other in the line.

Can anyone recommend any other pink/nude polishes I should be looking out for?

Until Next Time
Beck xxx

Essence: 'Stay With Me – Long Lasting Lip Gloss’

I wont lie, I’m a sucker for a nice lipgloss – but I simply can’t justify spending a crazy amount of money on it, as I don’t feel as though its something that has a lot of longevity in my makeup collection.

 Needless to say, I was super excited when I found the Essence ‘Stay With Me – Long Lasting Lip Gloss’ for around (possibly under) the $5 mark.

I chose the color 02 My Favorite Milkshake. The color is a nice light pink color, with a lovely shine. 

My Nan wanted to help, so gave me her hand - such a cutie

The first thing I noticed about this was the odd shaped applicator wand. As you can see, it dips in the middle, making it slightly awkward to apply the gloss evenly. The packing also has a stopper in the tube (not pictured) so its slightly difficult to get a good amount of product on the wand when applying.

This is 2 coats swatched on my wrist

It is fairly translucent color wise, but has a nice shine to it, which is something I look for in a gloss.

To be honest, I’m not sure the product lives up to its name, as its not extremely long lasting – It’s certainly no longer lasting than any other gloss that I have in my collection. 

Finished Product - my lips were super dark here. Not sure why haha

 However, having said that, I am fairly happy with this product, especially for the price.  It is a great product to use over a dark color for added effect or on days where I don’t want a super dramatic lip

Has anyone tried any of the other colors?

Until Next Time

Beck xxx

Palmers Cocoa Butter Formula - Gentle Exfoliating Facial Scrub

Sold at most supermarkets/Priceline for around $10

I am currently adoring this exfoliant and thought I'd share it with anyone that reads this blog.

I picked this up from Woolworths (standard supermarket) for around $10.

I have extremely confused (weird) skin. Sometimes it's oily, other times its dry. While I don't suffer from sensitive skin, there's many a product that will leave me with a slight redness after application - so for me this product was a godsend!

The packaging is simple yet practical. You only need the smallest amount of product to cover your whole face. I have been using this product for 3 weeks now and I feel as though there is still plenty left. The micro beads in the formula are not too harsh on the skin, and the product has an amazing scent!

After an initial breakout, my skin is looking and feeling amazing! (If i do say so myself)

Has anyone tried any other of the Palmers Palmers Cocoa Butter Formula  products?

Until Next Time

Beck xx 

M by Mariah Carey Perfume Review

M By Mariah Carey

I am not the type of girl to have a signature scent. I'd rather rotate a few fragrances I really love. However, recently I have really been LOVING  'M by Mariah Carey'

I cannot speak highly enough of the fragrance! It is such a beautiful, sweet smell that lingers nicely - while not being too overpowering.

The packing is adorable and looks great as a display bottle as well. Purple is my favorite color so I may be slightly biased, however, the butterfly lid really just adds to the cuteness of the bottle. 

I recently saw it for only $29 however, it normally retails for around the $50 mark.

As you can see, I am a fair way through mine, however, I will definitely be repurchasing once it's finished.

What are some fragrances you are currently loving?

Until Next Time

Beck xxx

Something to Ponder!

I recently saw this picture on Instagram and I thought it would be lovely to share with anyone that reads my blog.

For anyone that knows me, 2012 was a terrible year. What started out being one of my best years, slowly deteriorated into being a new low. However, there is no point dwelling. Lets look forward.

I know 2013 is going to be fantastic! We are almost through first month and I can already tell its going to be amazing.

I hope you find as much meaning in this picture as I did.

Until Next Time

Beck xxx