The Little Guru

Category: Beauty

Aloe Unique Skincare in Review

There is no hiding that I have become utterly obsessed with all things skincare. I am always reading up and looking for new products to try and share my experiences with my readers. My obsession comes with fine lines and wrinkles that I have noticed. Along with a bit of pigmentation and broken vessels on my cheeks (due to chronic medication) which drives me nuts! I have grown quite self-conscious and really do envy those gals with flawless skin. Regardless of my petty woes, I am excited to share a new product that I have been testing out for the past few weeks! It’s local, the packaging is gorgeous and it’s pretty well priced- Introducing Aloe Unique Skincare

Aloe Unique brings you a range of skin care treatments containing the powerful active ingredients of the Aloe Ferox plant. Containing almost twice as many amino acids as Aloe Vera, Aloe Ferox is ideal for skin care as it has been scientifically proven to penetrate the skin to the deepest layer. The Aloe Ferox plant is rich in amino acids, with the powerful agent Aloin, as well as polysaccharides and other plant metabolites so it contributes to a soft and smooth skin that is hydrated, nourished and rejuvenated.

I had purchased the combo skin set as there was a few products I wanted to try out and they were having a really great special. The Skin Set included a Gentle Face Wash (150ml), Clarifying Facial Toner (150ml), Aloe & Honey Gel Mask (75ml), Age Defying Serum (30ml), Essential Day Cream (50ml), Essential Night Cream (50ml).

Let’s get this Aloe Unique Review started..

Aloe & Honey Gel Mask (Retails for R119)

There is nothing better than smoothing a gel mask on your face after a long day and man, this mask has to be my favourite out of the skin set. Let’s be real though, who doesn’t love a good mask?

The soothing gel mask instantly energizes and smooths dull, tired skin. With a super-hydrating blend of anti-oxidants, this Aloe Ferox-based formula reboots and replenishes healthy function in fatigued skin, improving texture and creating a more radiant, youthful appearance. This mask can also be used on all skin types. It’s really great for sensitive skin gals too! If there’s one product you need to try from the Aloe Unique skin care line, it’s this one!

Gentle Facial Wash (Retails for R99)

I don’t generally do ‘Gel’ face washes as they are quite harsh on my skin and dry’s it out completely. I was pleasantly surprised though by how gentle this facewash actually is! The clear, light liquid foaming wash is packed with Vitamin E and hydrating glycerin, which also has Aloe Ferox-based formula that removes pollutants without over-drying or depleting skin’s protective oils. It really does leave your skin calmed, clarified and radiant.

Clarifying Facial Toner (Retails for R99)

This is a tricky one for me as I have a love/hate relationship with this toner. On the first try, I spritz (LOVE that it’s a Spritz on product) some on a cotton pad and wiped it on one half of my face. It left my skin burning on the apples of my cheeks which I immediately washed off with water. I decided to let me skin ease into the products and gave the toner another try a few days later. After I had double cleansed my face that evening, I opted to try the toner again and to my relief, it soothed and nourished my skin instead of burning it.

I do think it’s a great product though with amazing properties like powerful anti-oxidants, Witch Hazel and anti-irritant Allantoin hydrates.

Age Defying Serum (Retails for R299)

A do-it-all serum that is VERY well priced and that ticks most skin concerns.

The serum focuses on hyperpigmentation & ageing, so it’s a reall goodie. It contains a potent concentration of antioxidants (Vitamins A & C), high levels of Aloe Ferox leaf extract and borage oil. It works to prevent and reverse the appearance of wrinkles, lines and hyperpigmentation. It’s light weight formula is perfect with a refresher texture that absorbs quickly. I use it in the evenings, before I apply my night moisturiser which I absolutely love.

Essential Day Cream (Retails for R119) & Essential Night Cream (Retails for R134)

Ultra-light, non-greasy moisturiser that hydrates the skin. This sentence really sums up what the day and night moisturiser is all about. Loaded with Vitamins E and C and Glycerin, it’s packed with skin loving ingredients . This non-greasy Aloe Ferox-based formula locks in moisture for lasting hydration and helps fight damaging free radicals.

You will honestly wake up to firm, rested and radiant skin. Initially, I thought that it would leave my skin greasy as the formula is quite thick. To my surprise, it didnt! My skin soaked it up and left it feeling soft and supple. This product is a real budget beauty!

If you are a lover of Aloe Vera and are keen try these stunning local products, learn more about the Aloe Unique range here.

I will be taking these fab products along with me on our roadtrip to Kosi Bay! Be sure to follow my insta stories for some on-the-go skincare tips!

January 14, 2020
Sun Loving with Cetaphil Sunscreen
Summer has officially hit Johanneburg which means time spent outdoors in the sun, sea or the pool. While we are out enjoying the sunshine, it’s important we remember to protect our skins with a good, broad spectrum sunscreen.

There is alot of questions that go with why suncreen is so important. How much sunscreen one should be applying and how often to reapply. So with this post I hope to educate you on the importance of suncreen and why Cetaphil Sun SPF50 Lotion should be an essential in your beauty regime!

This sunscreen is great for all skin types, but especially beneficial for sensitive or oily skin’s. It’s hypoallergenic, won’t block pores and is water resistant. The formula can be used of both face and body, and it’s so lightweight that it’s even suitable to wear under makeup (I’ve tried it out and can attest to this).

The formula is lightweight and oil free, and I would describe the consistency as more of a cream. However, it does absorb quickly just like a gel would and doesn’t leave a greasy film or sticky feeling. One of the best things about this formula is that it also nourishes the skin. This is thanks to the inclusion of Vitamin E in the formula.

What is the difference between UVA & UVB Rays?

Both UVA and UBA Rays contirbute to sunburn, skin ageing, eye damage, melanoma and other skin cancers. UVA Rays Causes cellular damage and increases the risk of skin cancer as well as ageing. UVB Rays causes sunburn which is a significant risk for melanoma.

What does sunscreen actually do?

Suncreen filters but does not block UV radtion. Unfortunately no suncreens offer 100% protection agianst UV radiation. These are the percentages that the fillowing SPF’S cover:
- SPF15+ Filters 93% of UV radiation
- SPF30+ Filters 97% of UV radiation
- SPF50+ Filters 98% of UV radiation
Why do I need to apply sunscreen 15-20 min BEFORE going into the sun?

Because the UV filters need 15 to 20 minutes to start working. Most are triggered as you rub the sunscreen onto your skin, but they need some time to start doing the job properly.

Cetaphil Sunscreens are Non-Photo Toxic- What does that mean?

Photo-toxicity is a chemically induced skin irritation that requires light to be triggered – it is not a reaction caused by the immune system. In essence, it’s a type of photo sensitivity where the skin’s response resembles an exaggerated sunburn. Cetaphil sunscreens are suitable for even the most sensitive of skins.

How often should you wear sunscreen?

Sunscreen should be worn EVERY SINGLE DAY, all year round. Summer and winter, sunscreen is essential!

Recently, I was sent the Cetaphil Sun SPF50+ Lotion to try out. Now, if you’ve been following my blog , you’ll notice that I have really become a fan of the Cetaphil brand and have blogged about them previously. You can read about some other great products here.

Cetaphil products are available to purchase at selected Clicks, Dischem stores and leading pharmacies.

To learn more about Cetaphil products, follow the brand on Facebook here
November 15, 2019
Be a Force of Nature with Burt’s Bees!

Excited to shed some light on the much-anticipated Burt’s Bees natural beauty care brand that is finally in South Africa. Burt’s Bees has been offering distinctive earth-friendly, natural health and beauty care products for 30 years. From a beekeeper’s backyard in Maine to the leading edge of natural, Burt’s Bees knows natural body care solutions from head-to-toe and operates with The Greater Good top of mind. No parabens, phthalates, petrolatum or SLS and no animal testing.

Burt’s Bees source their ingredients from nature and their products have never been tested on animals – each one of their products are consciously-crafted to bring out the best in you while respecting the planet. This brand really embodies the phrase, be a force of nature!

Be a Force of Nature

Burt’s Bees sent zero waste to landfill – which you have to agree is an amazing achievement. They turn their waste by-products into biomass-based fuels, electricity, and even cement. Amazing Right?

Delighted to recieve PR drop with a few products, I was excited to put them to the test!

Burt’s Bees Lip Balm

Burt’s Bees Lip Balms have a little something for everyone. Apart from the flavour, each of these balms are infused with real natural ingredients to nourish lips and keep them nourished. There is a stunning variety of flavour to choose from!

Lip Balm

Thoughts: Really love the lip balm! I really have been batteling with dry lips and this balm has honestly helped heal my lips. I recieved the pomegranate one and it is devine! The Lip Balm retails for R75 each

Burt’s Bees Lip Shimmers

Featuring shea butter and antioxidant-rish fruit oils, each 100% natural Lip Shimmers promises to moisture, nourish and soften lips naturally. Packed with Vitamin E, Beeswax, sunflower oil and a cool burst of peppermint oil!

Lip Shimmer in Cherry

Thoughts: So my favourite part about the Lip Shimmer is the tingle sensation you get from the cool burst of peppermint when applied. The Cherry Lip Shimmper is VERY pigmented and is not particually my colour, so for me personally, I would opt for a lighter pink or nude. The Lip Shimmer retails for R99 each

Burt’s Bees Cuticle Cream

This Lemon Butter Cuticle cream promises to offer intense moisture to nails and cuticles. Packed with sweet almond and cocoa seed butter to soften cuticle while the Vitamin E and sunflower oil nourish brittle nails!

Cuticle Cream

Thoughts: I must be honest. I didn’t ever use cuticle cream before I recieved some in this PR package and I have to say, I am hooked! Seeing a huge difference in my nails has me obsessed with cuticle cream. The Cuticle Cream retails for R125 each

Yes, I know what you are thinking, the price point is a little high for a lip balm, but I can assure you that it will be a lip balm that will shine above the rest because it really works!

You can shop for Burt’s Bees products on Takealot. Be the force of nature!

Have you tried any Burt’s Bees Products yet?

October 2, 2019
John Frieda Strengthen and Restore Hair Range – Review

If you have been watching my insta stories (nicole_theguru), you would have seen that I was gifted with a gorgeous hamper filled with John Frieda haircare and other goodies! I was so excited about it that I started my John Frieda Strenghten and Restore hair journey that day!

It honestly could not have come at a better time as I have been batteling so much with my hair lately. From tuffs of hair falling out by the hand full and may I add, at a ridiculous rate. To dry, knotty hair that no amount of argan oil seemed to help!

I seeked advise from hair dressers, my GP and even took to instagram, which to my suprise, many other woman were batteling with the same situation as I was.

I started taking Folic Acid for about 2 months which, to be honest, didnt make a difference at all.

So what is a girl to do you ask…? Well after 2 months of stressing about going bald, I came to terms with that maybe it was all part of being an adult. The ageing process, possibly my medication for my PH and daily stress. I began to accept that my thick locks were now going to be thin, dry , not so pretty hair.

My Hair Journey

So ever since I recieved the hair products, I promised myself that I would completely devote extra love and care towards my hair.

Im the worst because often I would be too tired (lazy) to dry my hair before bed so I would simply wrap it up in a towel and go to sleep waking up to a head of tangled frizzy hair.. Not a good look at all!

Full Repair- Strengthen and Restore Range

I started off with the Full Repair Range. It consisted of a shampoo, conditioner and deep conditioner. It was the perfect range to start with to enrich my hair with all the godness that it was lacking.

Infused with Inca Inchi Oil, an Amazonian lightweight micro-oil rich in Omega-3, helps to restore brittle hair fibres as it cleanses. Reduces the risk of further breakage and split ends without weighing hair down. Formulated for all dry and damaged hair types, including colour-treated and chemically treated hair.

Full Repair -Strengthen and Rescue Range

First Impression/Results:

From the first wash my hair absorbed nearly all of the conditioner. It just showed how dry my hair was. I have honestly loved this range. It was exactly what my hair needed and it has transformed my hair completely from the get go!

The deep conditioning is a stunning product for extra nourishment. I have used it twice and my hair felt amazing after using it! The shampoo and the conditioner are amazing on thier own but it you really do have brittle, dry hair than definately add the deep conditioner to your hair regime.

The Strengthen and Restore Range is the perfect starter to get your hair healthy again.

Shop John Frieda Here:

The Full Repair Shampoo and Conditioner can be found at Clicks Stores retailing for R115.99 each for 250 ml size.
The Full Repair Deep Conditioner can also be found at Clicks Stores retailing for R115.99 for 150ml size.

Follow me on my hair journey with John Freida as I will be reviewing and tamming my Frizz with the Frizz Ease Product next!

*Disclaimer: Products were gifted*

August 20, 2019
The Cosmetic Chef Experience with Conny Oberrauter

I just love meeting energetic, enthusiastic women. They make me excited about the possibilities in my own life and truly inspire individuals like myself to go above and beyond. The Cosmetics Chef, Conny Oberrauter, is one of those ladies.

Conny Oberrauter- The Cosmetic Chef

I had a chance to chat to her briefly and she gave me a bit of a history on how she became the Cosmetic Chef! She’s been in cosmetic research and development for over 20 years and is a qualified Cosmetic Chemist. After years of working in cosmetics companies and later opening her own consultancy, she’s branches out and has written and self-published an amazing book that shares her insider knowledge of the industry.

High-End Cosmetics In Your Kitchen

Conny has shared her gift with us in her stunning book with all her recipes that can be made in our kitchens, but just because they are easy to make, it doesn’t mean they don’t work, and haven’t been intensively researched. 20 years in the industry, I think she knows what she is talking about!

We Made Our Own Serum

The event was hosted at the Miele showroom that will honestly leave you ‘ooo-ing’ and ‘aaa-ing’ at every turn! We were lead into the kitchen where the stage was set for us to ‘cook’ up a storm! A true Cosmetic Chef experience awaited.

Welcome drinks!

It was a good cuppa!

Conny introduced us into a world where cosmetics dont need to cost a fortune and that most of the ingredients that we used to make our own Serum is actually used in top quality skin brands. Can you believe that we actually pay for the branding and packing of the product instead of the product itself, purley because it doesnt cost that much to make the skincare product! MIND.BLOWN.

After the introductions and insightful info, we put on our aprons and got started on making our own serums! We got grouped with 5 ladies per table and were guided through the whole process. It reminded a little of school days, sitting in Biology class, doing all sorts of experiments. It was so much fun and incredibly easy because everything is pre-measured.

The magic ingredients for the serum!

Candid moments!

All inspiring woman in one room!

Got to meet the lovely ladies- Suanne Mulder & Zaakira from Princess of Jozi Blog

Is the Serum Good?

I have been using the Serum in the evenings before bed for extra hydration for about a week now and my skin is loving it! I went a bit heavy on the Rose Gernium Oil, so it does tingle the nose, but otherwise the product is fantastic! Suprisingly, my skin hasnt broken out at all! (touch wood)*

Usually with us sensitive skin types anything new applied to the skin, the skin breaks out but I’m happy to report that it’s been behaving so far. WIN!

Why You Need This Book

It gives you Perspective
The Cosmetic Chef specialises in formulating natural, organic products. The right amount of a certain something for your skin and hair that you made in your own kitchen. I think thats pretty wonderful!

Conny goes into detail about why we actually do need safe preservatives in our products and that natural doesn’t always equal better. Yes, we want to avoid harmful synthetic chemicals on our skins, but we don’t want to substitute synthetic with non-renewable natural ingredients that damage the environment.

It’s a Money Saver!
Times are getting tough out there- I know. The economy is under huge pressure and sometimes we feel a little guilty about spending a lot of money on skin products because let’s face it, that sh*t is expensive. So in comes Conny with her magical recipes that will help your bank account.

DIY Gifting
A homemade gift is so meaningful and the fact that it’s an all natural product, even better! You can read about other DIY craft ideas here.

Got my very own signed copy!

More Info Please

So the stunning book offers 50 recipes that you can make in your own kitchen, but if you are someone like me that is a bit hesitant, then why not opt for a Ready-To- Go Kit and create your own magic in a bottle?

Check out her website here

Disclaimer: I was invited by Republic PR to the event. This is not a sponsored post.

July 11, 2019
The Cetaphil Range is an Amazing Winter Go-To!

When the temperature drops, humidity levels in the air decrease and this causes the skin to dry out. To compound matters, at the first sign of cold weather we’re quick to turn up the heaters, take super hot baths and wash our bodies with skin stripping soaps. Is it any wonder then that our skin tends to be dry in winter? Neglecting to care for dry skin can lead to a host of skin conditions like severe itching, eczema and psoriasis. That’s why the Cetaphil range is an amazing winter go to for dry skin!

For the past 6 months or more, I have been battling with extremely dry and itchy skin, especially on my legs. I have been rubbing, exfoliating and scrubbing my way through ALOT of products that claim to help moisture the skin. One product, which was gifted to me, really has taken first place in my beauty moisturiser favourites.

Cetaphil Restoraderm Range

Cetaphil Restoraderm Skin Restoring Moisturiser (R279.95) and Cetaphil Restoraderm Skin Restoring Body Wash (279.95) has become my go to body wash and lotion of the season. Yes, I’ve tried many over past few months (some of which I love), but it’s this one that really has worked wonders for my skin!

Body Moisturiser and Body Wash

Formulated for very dry, itchy skin, this beauty contains ingredients and technology that helps repair skin’s protective barrier, while promoting hydration. In addition, it’s free of fragrance & colour (the two biggest skin irritants) and contains no parabens or nut oils.

The body wash itself looks a bit like moisturiser, but works into a good, gentle foam. While it does contain a sulphate (foaming agent), it also contains a whole host of skin-beneficial, nourishing ingredients like Shea butter, sunflower seed oil, allantoin and glycerin. It is also free from soap, so it gently cleanses without irritating or drying the skin. Also included are ingredients that enhance the skin’s integrity and actually help rebuild its natural barrier function (arginine & Sodium PCA).

My Experience:

I have officially been using the products religiously for a little under 3 weeks and I can honestly see and feel a difference! My skin does still get itchy from time to time , but my scaly skin is non-existant and I’m left with smooth, moisturised skin!

Dry itchy skin before stating with the Cetaphil Body Range.

The ingredients used in this beauty are FAR more superior, gentle, and kinder to the skin. So, if you have very dry, sensitive skin, suffer with eczema, or, like me, are just too damn lazy to apply a body moisturiser every night. The Cetaphil Range is definately worth a try!

Good news for mamas- They have a stunning range for your little ones too! Read all about it here.

Have you tried the Cetaphil Restoraderm Skin Restoring Body Wash? I’d love to know your thoughts!

July 8, 2019
The H2-Glow Facial was Unexpectedly Great…

It’s been forever that I had been for a facial and I was excited when I was given the opportunity to try out the revolutionary H2-Glow Facial™ at Ms Glam Nail Bar.

The last time I went for a facial, was before my wedding day and this year will be our 5th wedding anniversary! Where has time gone??

Ms Glam Nail Bar

What is the H2-Glow Facial?

The H2-Glow Facial™ is the latest technology in skin care! This stunning treatment is the newest advance in non-laser skin resurfacing. It is the only hydradermabrasion procedure that combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration and antioxidant protection.

3 Phase H2-Glow Facial

How Does it Work?

H2-Glow Facial™ uses Vortex technology to cleanse, extract and hydrate, leaving skin glowing. It’s a 3 phase process that gives you incredible results:

Cleansing Phase:
• A peeling solution, with active ingredients such as salicylic acid and bark wood extract, is used in combination with Vortex technology to offer a deep cleansing action
• This phase softens and loosens the skin, and removes (most) blackheads painlessly
• Two different heads are used in the Cleaning Phase – one for the whole face and a second one that concentrates on the oily ‘T’ panel, offering specialised cleaning

Infusion Phase:
• Infusion Phase Vortex technology is used with either of the following:
• Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate and plump
• Vitamin C and Glycolic Acid brightening solution for skin brightening and pigmentation
• Oligopeptides for wrinkles and sun damage

Rejuvination Phase:
• A mask and PDT lights (red or blue depending on the condition being treated) are used to replenish and recharge the skin – leaving skin healthy and glowing

Is it Suitable For all Skin Types?

Absolutely yes! Suitable for all skin types, the H2-Glow can help with oily congested skin, pigmentation, dry dehydrated skin and fine lines and wrinkles!

The Verdict:

Now that winter is officially here, my skin was in desperate need of some hydration and so this facial happened at the perfect time!

The facial itself is so lovely. It’s literally painfree, as facial’s should be, apart from the tingly sensation from the infusion phase, that probably lasts 10 seconds and is totally bearable!

It’s safe to say we all hate the extraction part of the facial, especially around the nose area, that’s my biggest problomatic area as it’s just covered in blackheads! But the H2-Glow Facial is so gentle on the skin and penetrates deep to give your skin the ultimate cleanse.

The treatment itself took +-30 minutes and my skin felt amazing afterwards! It had such a beautful glow and I visibly could see the difference in my smile lines and overall texture of my skin.

The next day my cheeks did feel slightly sensitive, in the slightest, two small pimples popped up on my chin and an in-grown hair popped up on my cheek! Gross, I know but it facinated me because that’s how deep the products penetrated my skin to bring up all impurities beneath it! I had absolutely no redness at all which is great news for those sensitive skins like myself!

Overall, the facial was suprisingly great, with real time results that you can actually see! The therapist is a stunning lady that will treat your specific skin concerns. Every facial is tailored to your skin type for optimum results. Guys you will honestly see a huge difference!

The lovely team from Ms Glam has kindly given me a coupon code to get a HUGE discount off your facial!

Pamper yourself to a gorgeous H2-Glow Facial, Mani and Pedi (with gelleration application) all for R500!! Use discount code @MSNICOLE for the R500 promo.

Mani on Fleek!!

Go on and Glow!

xx

June 11, 2019
Clinique Fresh Pressed System – Review

I am so excited about this post because this product deserves some serious spot light on it because it’s just that good! I wrote about my Clinique haul a couple of weeks back, you can read it here if you missed it. I mentioned that I would do a seperate post about the Clinique Fresh Pressed System. Well ladies and gents, may I present, for me at least, the ultimate Vitamin C Serum you need in your beauty regime.

Clinique Fresh Pressed System

Is Vitamin C Important?

Vitamin C is one of the most important skincare ingredients and serves multiple purposes, including improving the overall tone and texture of the skin, slowing down the ageing process, increasing the skin’s defence against UV damage, and reducing hyperpigmentation and blemishes.

How does it benefit your skin?

It firms the skin and makes it look younger. Vitamin C is an important part in the formation and production of collagen. When it is added to a regime, vitamin C increases collagen synthesis, which results in younger, healthier, firmer looking skin.

It helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and slows down skin ageing. Numerous clinical studies on Vitamin C have shown it to be a potent anti-oxidant when applied to the skin. Vitamin C has the ability to neutralise environmentally-induced free radicals such as pollution, smoking, oxygen, and UV induced free radicals, and provides a protective shield over the skin to prevent them from entering. ( The whole reason why Im absolutely hooked on Vitamin C!)

It increases the skins defence against UV damage and even boosts your SPF effectiveness. Recent evidence has shown that combining vitamin C with SPF boosts the effectiveness of the SPF, thereby helping to protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, it has also been shown that vitamin C can help repair skin damage following excessive exposure to the sun.

It helps to reduce hyperpigmentation, dark marks and blemishes, and increases your skins glow that you visibly see! Vitamin C will help with reducing the appearance of dark marks, blemishes, age spots, and will even help with dark under-eye circles.

TIP– For the treatment of stubborn pigmentation marks, apply a small amount on the pigmented mark after cleansing in the evening before applying retinol or any other moisturiser.

7 Day System available online for R480

Clinique’s Fresh Pressed System, harnesses the full power of Vitamin C at their highest concentration. The Fresh Pressed System contains two components: a Renewing Powder Cleanser with Pure Vitamin C, and the Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10%.

Renewing Powder Cleanser with Pure Vitamin C:
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) to restore radiance, brightness and luminosity;
Kaolin Clay to purify and gently polish the skin; and Salicylic Acid to break apart dead skin cells and excess oil.

Daily Booster with Pure Vitamin C 10% :
Vitamin C and Salicylic Acid as above;
Molasses to break up existing dark spots into microscopic particles that are diffused throughout the skin; Mulberry Root Extract, Scutellaria Extract and Grape Fruit Extract to help fend off oxidative damage and prevent future discolouration; Sucrose, Betaine, Algae Extract and Caffeine to calm and soothe the skin.

Due to the fact that Vitamin C naturally degrades when exposed to oxygen, the Powder Cleanser and Daily Booster are both housed in air tight, light-protected packaging to ensure that the Vitamin C remains stabilized and at it’s most potent

The Review:

The Powder Cleanser is packaged in individual sachets to ensure zero exposure to light or air prior to cleansing. You empty the sachet into your wet palm, add a bit more water to lather, and apply to your entire face. Clinique advises that you leave the Powder Cleanser on the skin for approximately one minute to ensure that your skin “captures the potency of pure Vitamin C”.

I absolutely loved the application ritual of the Powder Cleanser first thing in the morning, with that, I visibly saw a difference in my complexion and the added glow it had to my skin. None drying and so gently on your skin!

The Booster is just magic in a Tube I tell you! The formula feels beautiful on the skin and my skin looks and feels so damn good and I certainly see a big inprovement in my skin.

To ensure maximum potency, the 10% Vitamin C powder is isolated in a sealed chamber within a lightproof vial and is only released into the soothing emulsion for mixing when it is ready to use. The idea behind this is that you only activate the Vitamin C immediately prior to the first application, meaning that its potency is guaranteed for the following 7 days.

Although it is a 7 day system, I have continued to use my Booster mixed with my daily moisturiser. The colour does change due to exposure of oxygen but it’s perfectly fine to use.

TIP: If you’re concerned about sensitivity issues, you needn’t be. I have sensitive skin and was concerned about the potency of this product, but I haven’t had any adverse reactions to it at all . If you’ve never used Vitamin C before, you can wean your skin onto it and see how you go.

Would I reccommend it?

ABSOLUTELY! I really enjoyed this product and the fact that I can visibly see a difference in my skin makes it even better! Goodbye pigmentation, goodbye fine-lines and hello to a whole lot of glow!

You can purchase the product online or at selected Edgars stores!

April 25, 2019
Clinique Beauty Haul- Skincare Review
A few weeks back, I took advantage of the Clinique free gift with any purchase online and man, did I get alot of goodies! I was in need of some moisturisers and serums anyways and got a bit carried away with some skin care, but none the less, I dont regret my Clinique Haul!

Double Cleansing Detox

So when I online shop I always like to check out the sale items to see if there is anything that tickles my fancy, lucky for me, there was. I bagged the Double Cleansing Detox that comes with:
- Take The Day Off™ Cleansing Balm, 15ml
- Rinse-Off Foaming Cleanser 50ml
- Clinique Headband (So cute!)
Double Cleansing Detox R395.00- (Which I got 50% off- Score!)

My Thoughts: I am utterly OBSESSED with the Take the Day Off Balm and honestly swear by this make-up remover. You can read more about it here. Cleansing balms are so much better for me personally. I used to use facial wipes only to remove makeup until my skin, especially around my eye area, became so sensitive that it would peel! Happy to report that I only use cleansing balms or oils and keep my skin attached to my face and in turn, quite happy.

The Rinse-Off Foaming Mousse is just as glorious as the Balm.
Using it only at night, the Cream-mousse face cleanser with soothing botanicals leaves my skin feeling moist, clean, fresh, perfect to add to anyones night time routine.

Fresh Pressed 7-Day System with Pure Vitamin C

The whole reason why I made a Clinique beauty haul in the first place was because I caught a video of Tori from Kiss, Blush and Tell talking about Vitamin C Serums etc. on her Insta stories and on the blog and I just had to try it for myself. PS: She is the ultimate skin health Queen of note! You will agree when you see her! Her skin is flawless, she is super knowledgable on all things beauty and to top it off she is a “take no-shit” kinda gal. She is fab!

R480.00 for the 7 day System

For the unversed, Vitamin C is one of the most important skincare ingredients and serves multiple purposes, including improving the overall tone and texture of the skin, slowing down the ageing process, increasing the skin’s defence against UV damage, and reducing hyperpigmentation and blemishes. Who knew that I was missing out on such an important step in my skin care regime.

The Fresh Pressed System contains two components: a Renewing Powder Cleanser with Pure Vitamin C, and the Daily Booster with 10% Pure Vitamin C 10%. I undertook to complete the Fresh Pressed 7 Day Challenge, whereby you use one sachet of Powder Cleanser a day, and add two drops of the Booster into your moisturiser twice a day, for one week. Clinique claims that you can expect to experience the following results: “from the first application, experience brighter, more radiant skin. With continued use, see transformative de-aging results: skin that’s noticeably firmer, more even-toned, smoother, with visibly diminished lines and wrinkles and a radiant, youthful glow.”

My Thoughts: I really want give you guys the scoop on this system because I really enjoyed and still am enjoying it and I think it deserves its own post. So keep your eyes peeled for the full review on the Vitamin C system!

Free Goodies & Samples !

Usually when you get free gifts it’s generally one or two items, but Clinique gave us a bag full of goodies!
- Take the day off Make-up remover for Lids, Lashes & Lips 30ml
- Clinique Smart Custom Repair Serum 7ml
- Clinique Smart SPF15 Custom Repair Moisturizer 7ml
- Clinique Smart Night Custom Repair Moisturizer 7ml
- Clinique Pop Lip Colour + Primer – bare pop 3.8g
- Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel
- Clinique Lipstick
- Cosmetics Bag (Perfect little bag for my lippies)
My Thoughts: The Take the Day Off Oil reminds me of baby oil.. Maybe not as heavy but the texture is there. It definately does the job just as good as the balm but I do prefer the balm to the oil anyday.

The Clinique Smart Samples – Lets start with my favourites. The Clinique Smart Night and the Clinique Custom Repair Serum were huge hits for me. I used the Night Moisturizer after I had clensend my face before bedtime. I love that it absorbs quickly and that it didnt leave my face super oily the next day. The Serum, I used it on a daily mixed with my moisturizer and I have to say that I have seen some difference in my fine lines around my eyes. The lines are almost nearly gone and my skin hydrated and glowing! The Clinique Smart SPF15 unfortunatly was a miss for me. It left my skin very oily which made me breakout with pimples on my forhead, specifically, in the T-zone area.

It can get a bit pricey…

Be warned that the Smart Range is quite pricy but if it shows the results like it has, then it’s definately worth it!

The Clinique Moisturizing Gel is a lovely, very light formula that you can wear on a daily basis. Personally, I think this will work for a combination to oily skin type as it is super light and quite moisturising. It’s nice.

Last but not least, I got 2 Lippies that, for me, are very similiar in colour but so pretty and supper soft on the lips. I got a good 3 hour wear before I had to touch up. Not bad at all.

Would I repurchase?

Absolutely!!!

This is my first time ever using products from Clinique and I am super impressed. The products are more high end but it’s a brand that promises results and delivers!

“Your skin regime is a bank account. Good product choices are good investments.” Always invest in your skin!

xx
April 3, 2019
Beauty Review on Kita Femme Fragrance & (WIN) with Kita Fragrances!

I am absolutely thrilled to be one of the first to get my hands on the gorgeous new Kita Femme Fragrance and review it!

KITA Femme exudes an air of playfulness with sweet notes of caramel, vanilla and almond. It’s Kita Fragrances’ first-born design which is thier pride and joy and is sold exclusivly from Kita Fragrances.

Kita Femme Fragrance

Kita’s New Look!

Firstly, let’s talk about the all new look the fragrance has! Before, the perfume came in a gorgeous turquoise blue/mint coloured box and bottle. Now the brand has gone for a chic, minimilistc monochromatic packing which I absolutely love!

The Fragrance!

The lovely Boss Lady- Tanya, had sent me an introduction prior to me recieving the perfume and I got excited to see that the top notes were fresh citrus scents! The top notes include Mandarin, Orange, Peach, Plum and Coconut. The base notes include Sandalwood, Almond, Vanilla and Musk. This immediately introduces you to a fresh fruity fragrance with a touch of true femme!

The overall effect of Kita Femme is the uniqueness and freshness. The new fragrance really describes, for me at least, all FEMME. Sweet yet sassy!

Win a Kita Femme Fragrance!

Win with TLG Blog and Kita Fragrance!

Head over to my Instagram account to win your very own Kita Femme Perfume!

Winner will be drawn on Friday, the 8th February 2019. Full competition t’s & c’s can be found here.

January 29, 2019