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The beauty booty: Revlon PhotoReady makeup SPF20, R185
Reviewer: Leigh van den Berg, Beauty Editor, Women24
Revlon's new foundation makes use of "photochromatic pigments" to "bend and reflect light to help erase every flaw". I just love that it's oil-free, because it didn't exacerbate my oily T-section (something other foundations sometimes do). In regards to that light-reflecting finish, I liked how it gave my skin a little glow. (It incorporates a zillion tiny pearlized specks into its mix. They're not quite big enough to call glitter, but if you're heavy handed in your application and someone's looking closely, they will be visible in the sun). I found that if I applied the foundation with a sponge, I could sweep the excess 'sparklies' away with ease and be left with a foundation that did a beautiful job of highlighting my cheekbones while helping to make me look a lot more refreshed and alert. (It's now my go to foundation for the morning after a big night out). I also liked the pump-bottle packaging. It's great in that it's convenient and hygienic. As for the SPF20, well, that's just fabulous. If you're looking for a medium-coverage foundation that isn't the least bit oily – yet can give the illusion of a dewy, glowing finish – this will be right up your street.
The beauty booty: Dermalogica Climate Control, R463
Reviewer: Samantha Brighton, Sub Editor, Women24
Don't you just hate flying? The air's so stuffy, your contacts make too much contact with your eyeball and everything feels dry... Fortunately, I was lucky enough to have Climate Control, one of Dermalogica's travel essentials in my bag. Essentially, a 'chapstick' for your whole face it's designed to help heal very sensitive or damaged skin as well as protect it when it's exposed to pollution, stress and extreme climates, be it very hot or very cold.
While waiting at the gate to board my plane, I quickly applied it to my face and hoped it would stop that awful transit bus smoke from seeping into my pores. At first, it felt a little, well, 'balmy', but after a few minutes the stickiness was gone and my face felt smooth again. When I landed I noticed that my skin didn't feel dry or look tight and flaky – the way it usually does after a long flight.
The best thing about this product is that you don't have to use your hands; you simply push it up like a lip balm and apply it directly to the skin. I also liked its gentle herbal scent. (Aside from benefiting from 'anti-ozonate complex', Climate Control also contains Shea butter, vitamin E and bisabolol to help boost your skin's natural defence system). I also thought this was great for soothing my skin after a day in the sun or protecting against the drying effects of an office air-conditioner stuck on high.
The beauty booty: Meadowsweet Detox Massage Oil, R69,95 for 125ml
Reviewer: Kerry Gibbs, Content Producer, Food24
Aside from assisting in detoxifying your body, this blend of pure essential oils also claims to work as a natural diuretic, boost circulation and improve the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite.
I liked using this after a workout at the gym. It was great to step out of the shower and use something with such a wonderfully invigorating smell (courtesy of its ingredients: grapefruit, black pepper, fennel and rosemary). I felt clean and relaxed and smelled a bit like my lovely herb garden! (Hee hee). Another thing that's great about this product is that it absorbs into your skin really quickly, so you can dress the moment you've finished applying it without having to worry about getting oily marks on your clothes. As for the results, my stretch marks and cellulite don't look any better or worse, but my overall skin tone is definitely looking better – a lot more supple and smooth.
Want to get your mitts on Meadowsweet goodies? Pay a visit to their website, www.meadowsweet.co.za, (they ship nationally), or pop into your local Wellness Warehouse.
The beauty booty: The Body Shop Kiss of Colour Cheek Blush, R195
Reviewer: Tammy February, Online Producer, TV, Blogs, Books, Astrology
As a rule, I'm not somebne who uses blush regularly, but being an ardent fan of The Body Shop, I figured I'd give the new Kiss of Colour Cheek Blush (in Golden Coral) a try. And I'm glad I did, because I fell in love instantly! Firstly, the blush's packaging is fantastically innovative. It features a sponge applicator blush stamp – yes, a stamp for your cheeks – which means you don't have to make use of a brush. Simply use the stamp to apply pressure to the pressed powder in the container, stamp your cheeks and rub the blush in. It works a treat! The lid also features a handy little mirror – a fabulous bonus. As for the colour, it was perfect. Being lightly tanned, the golden coral shade gave my skin a beautiful peachy-pink glow and left shimmering, but subtle sparkles on my cheekbones. Ingredient-wise, it contains coconut and marula oil – which helps to condition and restore your skin's smoothness and suppleness. I'm definitely planning to get more as soon as other colours become available.
The beauty booty: Labello Glamorous Gloss in Red Ruby, R29,95
Reviewer: Zayaan Shroeder, Online Content Producer, Parent 24
I just love this! I've never been a fan of Labello, but this particular gloss really converted me to their brand. On days when I'm feeling super frumpy and not girly at all, just a swipe of this mega moisturising gloss is all it takes to make a real difference to your appearance. The Red Ruby variant really compliments my caramel complexion. I like how it goes on really smoothly and stays nice and shiny-looking – even if you only put just a little of it on. From a packaging point of view, I like that the tip of the tube is slanted, allowing it to glide easily over your lips. It also has a really nice subtly fruity smell that's not overpowering or nauseating. Best of all, it contains an SPF 15, so you're protecting those luscious lips while keeping them sexy. Love, love, love this product! It's now always in my bag or pocket so I'm ready for a touch up.
The beauty booty: Estee Lauder Re-Nutriv Ultimate Lifting Creme Extra Rich, R2250 for 50mls
Reviewer: Adele Hamilton, Editor, Parent24
I'm a low maintenance girl and have never been one for spending much on cosmetics. And then, the doors of heaven opened, a light shone down and beauty editor Leigh handed me the potion of the gods; Estee Lauder's most indulgent, luxurious cream yet, Re-Nutriv Ultimate Lifting Creme Extra Rich.
Thanks to a unique blend of ingredients, it promises to lift and improve the overall appearance of your skin over time. (The formula includes collagen-boosters; a protein that helps prevent sagging and Colloidal Gold to help soothe, calm and reduce irritation, so your skin appears more even-toned. It also makes use of Reservatrol, a powerful antioxidant with skin-evening properties and a sugar-derivative that smoothes and re-texturises). The two instant benefits it offers, however, are intense moisture (which helps to plump out and minimise the appearance of fine surface lines) and radiance. (The latter is created via South Sea pearls that have been crushed to a micro-fine powder and mixed through the cream to help instantly soften the look of imperfections).
Personally, I found this cream to be a deliciously rich, softly fragrant and deeply nourishing. Within a day or two my skin started sitting up and begging happily every morning, ready for its special treat. The tight, papery, dry feeling I'd taken for granted has disappeared and instead my skin feels hydrated and smooth. No, the wrinkles and sun spots haven't magically been erased. I am still over 40, not 20. But, as a late adopter of expensive magic potions, I'm a convert. Now how am I going to explain to my skin that when this jar is eventually finished that it's back to a supermarket lotion? If you've got a big budget for skincare and want to give this a go, I can definitely recommend it. Also, it really does only take the smallest smidgeon to enjoy its full radiance-boosting, super-moisturising effect.
The beauty booty: Uriage Stick Extreme SPF50+, R119,95 for 10g
Reviewer: Dierdre Ingpen, Lifestyle Publisher, Women24
Especially formulated for sensitive skin or skin that's prone to allergies, this proved to be a perfect match for my fair, freckled complexion. The first couple of times I applied it with caution, as my skin tends to break out as soon as it sees a sun block. However, unlike many others, this is non-greasy product that can be quickly applied with no mess. (Aside from offering incredibly high broad-spectrum UV protection, Stick Extreme is also water resistant. Another bonus? It's enriched with ultra moisturising Shea butter, healing avocado and vitamin E, a great antioxidant.)
Since it was designed for such sensitive skin, I applied it to my daughters' little noses without any fuss and fear of cream dripping into and stinging their eyes. The added bonus of this being a stick is that you really do get a lot more out of your product as there is really is no waste – you only apply what you need. Don't be put off by its 'handbag' size; a little goes a really long way.
The beauty booty: Clarins Wonder Perfect mascara, R215
Reviewer: Robyn Addinall, Content Producer, Women24
This mascara promises many things. It promises length, multi-dimensional lashes, curl and volume. And the good news is that is delivers on all of these promises. I put it on for the first time and literally said 'Wow'. Its sleek silver packaging is pretty, but not flashy. Just the way I like it. It's completely waterproof and has some real staying power. Even if you accidentally fall asleep with it on (insert cringe here – awful, I know) it still looks like you've just applied it. Plus there are no itchy eyes! This product is definitely going on my 'favourite' list!
Are there any products that you absolutely adore or completely dislike? Tell us about them in the box below.
Reviewer: Leigh van den Berg, Beauty Editor, Women24Revlon's new foundation makes use of "photochromatic pigments" to "bend and reflect light to help erase every flaw". I just love that it's oil-free, because it didn't exacerbate my oily T-section (something other foundations sometimes do). In regards to that light-reflecting finish, I liked how it gave my skin a little glow. (It incorporates a zillion tiny pearlized specks into its mix. They're not quite big enough to call glitter, but if you're heavy handed in your application and someone's looking closely, they will be visible in the sun). I found that if I applied the foundation with a sponge, I could sweep the excess 'sparklies' away with ease and be left with a foundation that did a beautiful job of highlighting my cheekbones while helping to make me look a lot more refreshed and alert. (It's now my go to foundation for the morning after a big night out). I also liked the pump-bottle packaging. It's great in that it's convenient and hygienic. As for the SPF20, well, that's just fabulous. If you're looking for a medium-coverage foundation that isn't the least bit oily – yet can give the illusion of a dewy, glowing finish – this will be right up your street.
The beauty booty: Dermalogica Climate Control, R463 Reviewer: Samantha Brighton, Sub Editor, Women24
Don't you just hate flying? The air's so stuffy, your contacts make too much contact with your eyeball and everything feels dry... Fortunately, I was lucky enough to have Climate Control, one of Dermalogica's travel essentials in my bag. Essentially, a 'chapstick' for your whole face it's designed to help heal very sensitive or damaged skin as well as protect it when it's exposed to pollution, stress and extreme climates, be it very hot or very cold.
While waiting at the gate to board my plane, I quickly applied it to my face and hoped it would stop that awful transit bus smoke from seeping into my pores. At first, it felt a little, well, 'balmy', but after a few minutes the stickiness was gone and my face felt smooth again. When I landed I noticed that my skin didn't feel dry or look tight and flaky – the way it usually does after a long flight.
The best thing about this product is that you don't have to use your hands; you simply push it up like a lip balm and apply it directly to the skin. I also liked its gentle herbal scent. (Aside from benefiting from 'anti-ozonate complex', Climate Control also contains Shea butter, vitamin E and bisabolol to help boost your skin's natural defence system). I also thought this was great for soothing my skin after a day in the sun or protecting against the drying effects of an office air-conditioner stuck on high.
The beauty booty: Meadowsweet Detox Massage Oil, R69,95 for 125mlReviewer: Kerry Gibbs, Content Producer, Food24
Aside from assisting in detoxifying your body, this blend of pure essential oils also claims to work as a natural diuretic, boost circulation and improve the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite.
I liked using this after a workout at the gym. It was great to step out of the shower and use something with such a wonderfully invigorating smell (courtesy of its ingredients: grapefruit, black pepper, fennel and rosemary). I felt clean and relaxed and smelled a bit like my lovely herb garden! (Hee hee). Another thing that's great about this product is that it absorbs into your skin really quickly, so you can dress the moment you've finished applying it without having to worry about getting oily marks on your clothes. As for the results, my stretch marks and cellulite don't look any better or worse, but my overall skin tone is definitely looking better – a lot more supple and smooth.
Want to get your mitts on Meadowsweet goodies? Pay a visit to their website, www.meadowsweet.co.za, (they ship nationally), or pop into your local Wellness Warehouse.
The beauty booty: The Body Shop Kiss of Colour Cheek Blush, R195 Reviewer: Tammy February, Online Producer, TV, Blogs, Books, Astrology
As a rule, I'm not somebne who uses blush regularly, but being an ardent fan of The Body Shop, I figured I'd give the new Kiss of Colour Cheek Blush (in Golden Coral) a try. And I'm glad I did, because I fell in love instantly! Firstly, the blush's packaging is fantastically innovative. It features a sponge applicator blush stamp – yes, a stamp for your cheeks – which means you don't have to make use of a brush. Simply use the stamp to apply pressure to the pressed powder in the container, stamp your cheeks and rub the blush in. It works a treat! The lid also features a handy little mirror – a fabulous bonus. As for the colour, it was perfect. Being lightly tanned, the golden coral shade gave my skin a beautiful peachy-pink glow and left shimmering, but subtle sparkles on my cheekbones. Ingredient-wise, it contains coconut and marula oil – which helps to condition and restore your skin's smoothness and suppleness. I'm definitely planning to get more as soon as other colours become available.
The beauty booty: Labello Glamorous Gloss in Red Ruby, R29,95 Reviewer: Zayaan Shroeder, Online Content Producer, Parent 24
I just love this! I've never been a fan of Labello, but this particular gloss really converted me to their brand. On days when I'm feeling super frumpy and not girly at all, just a swipe of this mega moisturising gloss is all it takes to make a real difference to your appearance. The Red Ruby variant really compliments my caramel complexion. I like how it goes on really smoothly and stays nice and shiny-looking – even if you only put just a little of it on. From a packaging point of view, I like that the tip of the tube is slanted, allowing it to glide easily over your lips. It also has a really nice subtly fruity smell that's not overpowering or nauseating. Best of all, it contains an SPF 15, so you're protecting those luscious lips while keeping them sexy. Love, love, love this product! It's now always in my bag or pocket so I'm ready for a touch up.
The beauty booty: Estee Lauder Re-Nutriv Ultimate Lifting Creme Extra Rich, R2250 for 50mls Reviewer: Adele Hamilton, Editor, Parent24
I'm a low maintenance girl and have never been one for spending much on cosmetics. And then, the doors of heaven opened, a light shone down and beauty editor Leigh handed me the potion of the gods; Estee Lauder's most indulgent, luxurious cream yet, Re-Nutriv Ultimate Lifting Creme Extra Rich.
Thanks to a unique blend of ingredients, it promises to lift and improve the overall appearance of your skin over time. (The formula includes collagen-boosters; a protein that helps prevent sagging and Colloidal Gold to help soothe, calm and reduce irritation, so your skin appears more even-toned. It also makes use of Reservatrol, a powerful antioxidant with skin-evening properties and a sugar-derivative that smoothes and re-texturises). The two instant benefits it offers, however, are intense moisture (which helps to plump out and minimise the appearance of fine surface lines) and radiance. (The latter is created via South Sea pearls that have been crushed to a micro-fine powder and mixed through the cream to help instantly soften the look of imperfections).
Personally, I found this cream to be a deliciously rich, softly fragrant and deeply nourishing. Within a day or two my skin started sitting up and begging happily every morning, ready for its special treat. The tight, papery, dry feeling I'd taken for granted has disappeared and instead my skin feels hydrated and smooth. No, the wrinkles and sun spots haven't magically been erased. I am still over 40, not 20. But, as a late adopter of expensive magic potions, I'm a convert. Now how am I going to explain to my skin that when this jar is eventually finished that it's back to a supermarket lotion? If you've got a big budget for skincare and want to give this a go, I can definitely recommend it. Also, it really does only take the smallest smidgeon to enjoy its full radiance-boosting, super-moisturising effect.
The beauty booty: Uriage Stick Extreme SPF50+, R119,95 for 10gReviewer: Dierdre Ingpen, Lifestyle Publisher, Women24
Especially formulated for sensitive skin or skin that's prone to allergies, this proved to be a perfect match for my fair, freckled complexion. The first couple of times I applied it with caution, as my skin tends to break out as soon as it sees a sun block. However, unlike many others, this is non-greasy product that can be quickly applied with no mess. (Aside from offering incredibly high broad-spectrum UV protection, Stick Extreme is also water resistant. Another bonus? It's enriched with ultra moisturising Shea butter, healing avocado and vitamin E, a great antioxidant.)
Since it was designed for such sensitive skin, I applied it to my daughters' little noses without any fuss and fear of cream dripping into and stinging their eyes. The added bonus of this being a stick is that you really do get a lot more out of your product as there is really is no waste – you only apply what you need. Don't be put off by its 'handbag' size; a little goes a really long way.
The beauty booty: Clarins Wonder Perfect mascara, R215 Reviewer: Robyn Addinall, Content Producer, Women24
This mascara promises many things. It promises length, multi-dimensional lashes, curl and volume. And the good news is that is delivers on all of these promises. I put it on for the first time and literally said 'Wow'. Its sleek silver packaging is pretty, but not flashy. Just the way I like it. It's completely waterproof and has some real staying power. Even if you accidentally fall asleep with it on (insert cringe here – awful, I know) it still looks like you've just applied it. Plus there are no itchy eyes! This product is definitely going on my 'favourite' list!
Are there any products that you absolutely adore or completely dislike? Tell us about them in the box below.
