Radiant Summer Skin this Christmas with BioElixia

Australian made and owned skincare brand BioElixia have a beautiful skincare set that I would like to share with you today. Being the skincare junkie that I am, I am always on the look out for really fabulous products that I can share with you on my blog, and the Radiant Summer Skin Collection from BioElixia is ticking a lot of boxes for me.

Now I know that skincare is a very individual thing, and is it often a little difficult to gift to someone for that reason. Not all skincare products are suitable for a wide range of skin types, but I think this set comes pretty close to the mark.

The Radiant Summer Skin gift set was sent to me for consideration, and I have been testing these products for the better part of 5 weeks. I am impressed.

Recommended for all skin types, BioElixia boast TPM Dermal Delivery Technology, which from my understanding uses a particular form of vitamin E, known as Tocopherol Phosphate, a naturally ocurring water soluble form of vitamin E, which boosts the effectiveness and absorption of key ingredients into the skin.  

The Radiant Summer Skin Collection includes;

Vitamin Enriched Cleansing Cream 125ml

Crystal Derm Exfoliator 125ml

Daily Skin Smoothing Lotion 30g

Eye Brightening Serum 10ml

Hand Revitalising Cream + Sunscreen 30g

BioElixia Vitamin Enriched Cleansing Cream 125ml

This is a lovely, lightweight yet nourishing cleansing lotion. Containing a base of Green Tea Leaf extract, Macadamia Seed Oil, and Avocado Oil, it quickly and easily removes all of my makeup. I do make sure to remove it thoroughly with a warm/hot flannel. It has a beautiful texture and slip on the skin, and a light fragrance from Orange and Sandalwood essential oils. It is a pleasure to use, and leaves my skin with a beautiful glow, without any heavy oily residue. My oily/combo/acne prone skin loves this cleanser, and I am sure that a more normal to dry skin would also love it. I also use this to remove my eye makeup, and have experienced no irritation.

BioElixia Crystal Derm Exfoliator 125ml

Recommended to be incorporated into your skincare regime twice a week, this exfoliant uses micro-crystals in a base of Aloe Vera extract, and Sweet Almond Oil. If you are regular reader of mine you will know that I typically favour chemical exfoliation for my skin, and tend to approach manual exfoliants with due caution. This exfoliator has extremely fine crystals in a very nourishing base, and I find it best for my skin to use on already dampened skin, and a light touch with the tips of my fingers. Sometimes I really do enjoy using a manual scrub, and if  used gently, leaves my skin feeling smooth, with a refined texture and less visible pores. It is a really great product to use prior to application of makeup! If you wanted to dilute it for a nice morning cleanse, you could mix this with the cleansing cream in a 1:1 ratio. Hello morning glow!

BioElixia Daily Skin Smoothing Lotion 30g

Described by BioElixia as an anti-aging, smoothing formula to address fine lines and wrinkles, this is a very nice, lightweight but nourishing moisturiser designed for daily use. For me personally, it was a little too nourishing to use every single day, particularly as the summertime brings an increase in oil production for me, and I prefer to layer serums and extremely lightweight moisturising lotions under my makeup. For skins that are more normal, and normal to dry, this moisturiser would be perfect. It has a beautiful texture and feel on the skin. It does have quite a strong fragrance, however it does dissipate quite quickly once it is on the skin. The convenient pump packaging also ensures that the ingredients remain fresh, and not compromised by light or air.

BioElixia Eye Brightening Serum 10ml

I have been reaching for this product day and night. It is an absolute favourite. BioElixia describe the Eye Brightening Serum as a lightweight, anti-aging fluid designed for every day use to revive tired looking eyes and visibly smooth eye contours, and reduce the appearance of puffiness and dark circles. From my experience, it most certainly does all of these, and to date, is the most effective eye serum I have ever tried. I have had quite a few complements recently on how 'fresh' I look, and believe me, fresh is certainly not how I feel! This serum is a good nights sleep in a roller ball. The packaging is also a winner, with a lockable, push button dispenser on the base, designed to deliver only one dose of the product at a time. I roll the cooling metal ball all around my eye contour, in between my eyes, and sometimes down the sides of my mouth and across my top lip. It absorbs quickly, and leaves my eye area looking fresh and glowing. My under eye concealer goes on like a dream, and I have noticed significant less creasing throughout the day. Love this! Two thumbs up BioElixia!

BioElixia Hand Revitalising Cream + Sunscreen 30g

Hand cream is a great addition to any skincare set, and this one is perfect for daily use, and is a great size for your handbag. It absorbs rapidly, leaving no residue so that you can get on with your day, and contains anti-aging peptides, green tea and aloe vera extracts to soothe and protect your skin. The packaging does state that is contains sunscreen, however it does not state whether it is broad spectrum, or what the active sunscreen ingredients are. If you know you will be spending a lot of time in the sun, I would suggest that you do not rely on this product in isolation to protect you from UVA and UVB rays. 

You can head over to BioElixia's website here

The Radiant Summer Skin Collection is normally $89.95 AU, which I think is extremely good value considering the amount, and the generous size of the products included.

However, BioElixia currently has a special offer of 30% off  their Christmas sets, which brings the price of this set down to $62.95. Fantastic value!!

The Radiant Summer Skin Collection is normally valued by BioEixia at a cost of  $229.75 AU.

BioElixia offer free shipping ( Australia only ) for orders over $40.00.

This offer will end at 4pm AEST Monday 15th December, to allow time for Christmas Delivery.

Be Quick Lovelies!!

I'd love to hear your thoughts if you have tried BioElixia skin care or body care products? What are your favourites?

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Blessings,

Lou xo

Disclaimer: As stated in the body of the post, these products were kindly and generously sent to me for consideration. I share my thoughts and recommendations with you based purely on my experience only, with integrity and honesty. Cheers, xo.

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SEPHORA HAUL | PART THREE | NARS, JOSIE MARAN

Rounding up my New York Sephora Haul trilogy today with Part Three... it already feels like such a long time ago that I was actually in New York City. It is certainly a place that is really so captivating, and like most people that I know who have visited her, I just can't wait to go back. I am planning to do a little post on the blog about my New York City experience in the new year!

Anyway, on with some Josie Maran and Nars show and tell eh?

The following items were most definitely on my list to purchase. Josie Maran had recently launched in Mecca Cosmetica here in Australia just prior to our departure, however I knew that I could save a few dollars by waiting for the US prices. Like many other Aussie beauty girls, I have watched our US girls raving about the beautiful Josie Maran products for a long time, and was very happy to find two great little value sets. In the basket they went!

JOSIE MARAN WINTER DREAMS - ARGAN COLOUR COLLECTION

L-R Coconut Watercolour Eye Shadow in Rio de Rose Gold, Argan Illuminizer
Argan Infinity Lip and Cheek Creamy Oil in Limitless Pink

Please excuse my rather rushed swatches, but gosh these are gorgeous products! I have only had a brief play with this Argan Colour set, so you will no doubt hear more about these in upcoming favourites posts or in my face of the day posts on Instagram. I'm not sure how the Lip and Cheek oil will go on my acne prone/oily skin, but I will give it a good crack, and if not then it is most certainly a stunning lip shade. There is a great deal of beauty in both the textures, and the finishes of these products. I think Josie and I are going to friends...

JOSIE MARAN WINTER DREAMS WHIPPED ARGAN OIL BODY BUTTER DUO

I have indeed been enjoying the Vanilla Apricot Whipped Argan Oil Body Butter. It smells divine. Completely just vanilla and apricots. I adore it. The body butter is rich and luxurious, and you really feel like you are treating yourself when you use it. This is not a sink into your skin and disappear body cream, it really does form a protective layer on your skin, and you will notice quite a sheen for some time after application. This is definitely a 'before bed' body butter for me, and a deliciously gorgeous one at that.

This two pack also contains the scent Sweet Citrus, which I have not opened as yet, but let's face it, it's going to be good...

NARS AUDACIOUS LIPSTICK 

NARS AUDACIOUS LIPSTICK   AUDREY & ANNA

NARS Audacious Lipstick L -Audrey,  R -Anna

Allow me to introduce Audrey and Anna...aren't they lovely? The lipsticks that everybody is talking about and everybody loves. The swatches above are one easy swipe of colour. I have worn both, and do love them, though I'm not sure that they will change your life. Some may disagree with me, and believe me I do love a good lippy, I'm just not sure they are worth such a phenomenal amount of hype. Now if they could throw a few loads on washing on, cook dinner, and get my children to tidy their rooms then I may just have to reconsider... 

Have you purchased any of the NARS Audacious Lipsticks? Do you have a favourite shade?

Do they knock your socks off?...or at least wash them for you?

Do you have a favourite Josie Maran product? I would love to hear any recommendations!





Thanks so much for stopping by!



Blessings,



Lou xo

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This Christmas, Put Your Money Where Your Heart Is...

I really enjoy Christmas...it is a lovely time of the year, and I love how both my immediate, and extended family make the most of spending time together. I also have four very excited children, and you can't really help but be swept up in all their excitement!

I also enjoy Christmas shopping. I really love choosing and buying gifts for people. As is the case most years, I have not yet started my Christmas shopping, and tend to be one of those foolish people that are out fighting the crowds and the carpark a day or two before Christmas day. I obviously work well under pressure...

Today, the convenience of online shopping continues to increase in popularity, and we have also seen a surge in online shopping services, which bring a plethora of international brands previously unattainable to us Aussies down under, literally to your fingertips.

Today,  I would like to share the "Put Your Money Where You Heart Is" campaign, run by Australia Post. This campaign, and associated website, give you the convenience of online shopping, with thoughtful intention and lots of heart. Big ol' Aussie heart.

Where Your Heart Is comprises two online stores, the social enterprise marketplace Good Spender and Farmhouse Direct, a popular Australian online marketplace. Together, they offer you a place to purchase goods from Australian famers, artisans and small businesses alike. Not only that, but many of these companies bring to the fore an ethos of giving back to the community. 

As you meander about Good Spender, you will find a wide variety of goods on offer, from beautiful, gourmet foods ( yep...there's chocolate ) to lovingly homemade skin and body products, jewellery, homewares, clothing,  and much more. There is information about each business as you click on  a product, with details on how they contribute to their chosen cause, varying from employment opportunities for disadvantaged groups, to the sharing of profits to charities. 

I happened upon the brand "Thank You" whist I was browsing...they have just released a new line of body products! How does Mint and Spring Flowers Body Wash or Sweet Orange and Almond  Hand Lotion sound? They are on my list!

Farmhouse Direct provides shoppers with access to thousands of Australian grown and made products, from over 300 farmers, growers and artisan producers. There are so many lovely gift ideas, hampers, and Christmas totes all full of home grown deliciousness. Each farmer has an online "stall", so you are  purchasing directly from them, and your money is supporting their small business. 

Head over to Where Your Heart Is...here. I'm sure you will love browsing and making a list as much as I did!

Be sure you order by 15th December to ensure your goodies arrive before Christmas Day!

So you may be wondering what these lovely little bundles are above? Well the lovely people at Rub A Dub, a stall from Farmhouse Direct, have kindly and generously provided some gorgeous products for a little giveaway for my Aussie beauties. You have a chance to win one of three beautiful prizes, that you may wish to gift to someone special, or keep just for you. My home has had the most beautiful fragrance floating through it since these arrived. I am sure you will love them!

Along with these giveaway prizes that arrived to The Beauty Vine HQ, I was gifted two soaps, and two little sample pots of the balms to play with. Only having had them for a couple of days, I can share a little first impression...the soaps are gorgeous, and have been enjoyed by myself and my children for the last few days. I am not normally a fan of soap bars, but these are creamy, non-drying and smell just beautiful. I loved the smell of my children's skin when they got out of the bath...and we used the Bloke Soap too!! It has a lovely hint of sandalwood ( me - sigh, children - giggle ).

It's pretty safe to say that I am a bit of a balm addict...and by golly I know a good balm when I see/feel/smell one, and both of these are gorgeous. They melt luxuriously into the skin and contain beautiful, nourishing ingredients. The Gardeners balm has a beautiful citrus scent, and the Bub balm has the subtle fragrance of manuka honey, one of its main ingredients. I have been slathering the Gardeners Balm on my poor dry hands and cuticles, and have been using the bub balm on some patches of excema, dry skin and mozzie bites on my children and it has worked beautifully. If my offspring were still babies I would be slathering this on their bare bottoms for sure!! I would consider both to be very nice, multipurpose, healing soothing balms that every household would use and love.

RUB A DUB GARDENERS PACK - GARDENERS SOAP AND GARDENERS BALM.

RUB A DUB BUB PACK - CALMING LAVENDER SOAP, FRAGRANCE FREE SOAP, BUB BALM.

RUB A DUB BOD PACK - BOD MOISTURISER, AND SCRUB

You have no idea how difficult it will be for me to part with these prizes...you lucky things!! 

You can learn more about Rub A Dub products here, and find some more gorgeous gift packs and stocking fillers!

I will be running this giveaway over on my Instagram account. Please read the details below!


TO ENTER;

1. Follow Farmhouse Direct and me! The Beauty Vine on Instagram.

2. Regram the picture I will post featuring the RubaDub products and tag me.

3. If you would like to win the Gardener's pack add the hashtag #rubadubgardener in your caption

4. If you would like to win the Bub's pack add the hashtag #rubadubbaby in your caption

5. If you would like to win the Body pack add the hashtag #rubadubbody in your caption

6. One entry per person only

7. Australian residents only

8. My current/existing followers on Instagram will receive one extra entry automatically as a little thank you from me if they enter.

9. Giveaway accounts will not be entered.

10. Giveaway will commence from when I post my pic on Instagram, and will end on December 15th 2014.

11. Please set your account to public on or near the 15th of December so I can see your entry!

12. The three winners will be selected at random and notified on Instagram.

13. Please...18 years and over, or permission from your parents please as I will need your postal address to send you your prize if you are a lucky duck!

Good Luck! If you have any questions feel free to ask me in the comments below, or on Instagram!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Blessings,

Lou xo

Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored, nor do I have any affliliation with the above mentioned company's, businesses or websites. I was very pleased to share it because I think it's pretty fantastic. The only relationship I may have in the future, will be as a customer, purchasing my own products for my family. I was gifted some samples as I mentioned in the body of the post, and the giveaway prizes were kindly and generously provided by Farmhouse direct and Rubadub. Cheers, xo

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Powder Perfect Christmas Collection 2014 | Swatches and Chat!

If you follow my blog or Instagram, you may have some idea of how much I love Powder Perfect nail polishes. An independent, Australian brand based in Queensland, and a one woman show to boot, Powder Perfect polishes were my introduction to the world of "Indie" polishes at the beginning of this year. You might say that my collection has grown considerably since then! 

Having quite the collection of polishes ( ridiculous really ), I am always on the look out for shades that are that little bit unique and different. I cannot tell you how many compliments I receive on my manicure when I am wearing Powder Perfect polishes. They are 5 free, handmade and are just really beautiful!

So, you can imagine my excitement when I was offered the opportunity to have a play with the new Christmas 2014 Collection...I have no doubt the neighbours could certainly hear my woop woops!

I have the seven stunning polishes of the collection to share with you today. There is a nice mix of both traditional and non-traditional shades. All of the shade names are based on the quintessential Christmas movie "Home Alone". 

Now, do note, I am not a professional nail blogger. I have no special lighting or light boxes, and as such rely on natural light. I always think it is helpful to look at a lot of different swatches, as everyone's skintone and lighting is different, and there can be subtle differences in how the shade looks. I have also tried to do a couple of mani's with some very basic nail art. Please be kind.

POWDER PERFECT CHRISTMAS COLLECTION 2014

POWDER PERFECT CHRISTMAS COLLECTION 2014

Powder Perfect - Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas.

Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas is described by Powder Perfect as a vibrant red glitterbomb with a smattering of gold holographic particles. Yes, my word she is indeed. I chose to top it, however it also looks very pretty left textured. Two easy coats and beautifully opaque. RRP $10.00 AU.

Powder Perfect - Prettiest Sight To See.

Prettiest Sight To See is described by Powder Perfect as a delicate white crelly with feminine purple, cranberry and metallic glitters. This one reminds me of Christmas nougat! Again, two easy coats. There is no fishing around for glitter in these polishes either, they are packed! This a good one to use more of a dabbing motion to apply, particularly with the second coat. Both of my daughters have asked me to paint their nails with this one. In fact, so have a lot of my friends. Delicate and feminine appeal to all ages! RRP $10.00 AU.

Powder Perfect - Merry Christmas Ya Filthy Animal.

Merry Christmas Ya Filthy Animal is described by Powder Perfect as a juicy, deep red microglitter - a little bit sexy, with flashes of purple to mesmerise you! Again, this is another pretty one to give the top coat a miss and wear textured, but I just loved how juicy she looked with a top coat! I hate to play favourites, but this one really ticked my fancy, and I found it to be really complimentary to my skintone. RRP $10.00 AU.

Powder Perfect - The Stars Are Brightly Shining.

The Stars Are Brightly Shining is described by Powder Perfect as a sparkly silver glitterbomb packed with platinum flakies and soft gold microglitter. A beautiful warm toned silver that I think would look beautiful on all skin tones. You only see the undertone of this polish when you apply it...I was surprised because in the bottle it does look like more of a straight silver. I used two coats in the photo above, and my accent nail is a white base with this beautiful sliver and also the gold from the collection "Christmas In A Tropical Climate". RRP $11.00 AU.

Powder Perfect - Candy Canes And Silver Lanes Aglow
over Sally Hansen Barracuda.

Candy Canes And Silver Lanes Aglow is described by Powder Perfect as a fun, festive glitter topper featuring iridescent glitters along side matte white and red glitters. This polish is truly and honestly just so pretty! Ideally it is to be layered over the other Christmas polishes, but I decided I liked the idea of it over a light blue, and I think it looks gorgeous!( sorry for the claw). See the photograph below to see it layered over a white base, and my apologies for the poor quality, but I was trying to capture the beautiful irridescent glitters...this one is another definite favourite of mine! RRP $10.00 AU

Powder Perfect - Candy Canes And Silver Lanes Aglow
over Sally Hansen White On.

Powder Perfect - Christmas In A Tropical Climate.

Christmas In A Tropical Climate is described by Powder Perfect as a summery tribute to Christmas, a golden polish packed with vibrant gold holographic glitters. Another shade to wear textured if you wish. $5.00 from the sale of each bottle ( including wholesale orders ) will go towards the purchasing of toys for the Kmart Wishing Tree. It is always nice to give back, and apart from purchasing a gorgeous shade, you are contributing to making a little person's Christmas a little bit brighter than it might have been. Love.   RRP $10.00 AU.

Powder Perfect - What Is It With You And Christmas Trees?  Over base of Powder Perfect- Isolde.

What Is It With You And Christmas Trees? is described by Powder Perfect as a green crelly featuring colourful metallic glitter...like a Christmas tree adorned with cheery metallic baubles. Such a fun polish! I thought it would look cute to have two little Christmas trees on my nails, and I love pink and green together, so out came Isolde, one of my favourite Powder Perfect polishes from their permanent line to layer underneath. They look a little rustic despite my careful use of tape, but I think they still look cute, even if a little imperfect! My children decorate our Christmas tree, and it always looks a little wonky and unbalanced! ( I try hard not to fix it....). RRP $10.00 AU.

You can find the Christmas Collection from Powder Perfect here. As with each collection, there is the opportunity to purchase the whole collection for $65.00. You will find many other brands of polish, and also some previous collections from Powder Perfect. You're welcome!!

Do be quick! I believe some of the shades are starting to sell out!

For international stockists head here.

Do you have a favourite shade from this Christmas Collection? Which one tickles your fancy? I'd love to hear from you!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Blessings,

Lou xo

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Bioderma Sebium H20 | New Reverse Pump Bottle! | Review and Chat

The cult cleansing water brand Bioderma have recently launched SENSIBIO H20 ( formerly known as Crealine H20 ), and SEBIUM H20 in a refillable, reverse pump bottle onto Australian shelves. These bottles will be available exclusively at Priceline Pharmacies for a limited time only, and offer quick and convenient cleansing at its best.

The very popular French skincare brand was once hard to come by, which you find often tends to fuel an increase in consumer interest and demand in products.

From memory, I think I may have first heard of Bioderma a few years ago on You Tube from the stunning Pixiwoo sisters, Sam and Nic, and also the very beautiful Lisa Eldridge. Known to be a favourite product of makeup artists, and many beauty bloggers around the world, its gentle and effective formula allows you to remove makeup in one easy step, without irritating the skin. With the exclusion of potential skin irritants like alcohol and fragrance, it is said to be ideal for sensitive skins, and skins that are prone to redness or inflammation, which I personally appreciate!

On a daily basis, I am a big fan of cleansing my skin, morning and night. I really love the ritual of cleansing, and try to take a few minutes to enjoy it... it is a great way to both start the day, and to wind down and relax at the end of it. My preferred cleansers tend to be lotion, non-foaming gel, or oil/balm cleansing formulas. I have never been one to reach for cleansing waters or makeup wipes, and in fact didn't own any wipes until my recent trip to New York when I bought some to remove my makeup during the flight.

I tried a small sample size bottle of Bioderma Sensibio H20 around 12 months ago. I remember liking it, but found that it didn't really fit in with my skincare regime at the time, and didn't I end up repurchasing. Today, I have a few thoughts to share with you about Sebium H20, the micellar water designed for oily, combination and acne prone skin, which was kindly sent to me for consideration.

I have recently been incorporating the Bioderma Sebium H20 into my skincare routine by using it to remove my makeup as soon as I get home of an afternoon/evening. 

Typically, I will have my makeup on until I shower in the evenings, sometimes not until 9-10pm. I have always thought I should really cleanse earlier than that, just to give my skin more time to be makeup free, and to breathe so to speak. Using the Bioderma Sebium H20 gives me a quick cleanse, and leaves my skin feeling clean,  comfortable, and refreshed. Nice.

I will use two cotton rounds, with one pump of the micellar water on each one.  It is very easy to use, you simply place the cotton round on top of the dispenser, and press down to dispense the product. Later in the evening I will continue with my usual cleansing routine.

If you are a fan of cleansing waters, it would also be nice as a quick cleanse in the morning if you are in a hurry, or after exercise/going to the gym, though for me it would not replace proper cleansing ( *insert Caroline Hirons eyebrow*... )

Bioderma Sebium H20 is said to assist in the prevention of congestion and the clogging of pores, and to regulate the production of sebum. To be honest, I think it is a very difficult claim to measure, as so many factors, both internal and external, can contribute to an increase or decrease in sebum production.  I am familiar with the use of the mineral Zinc, both topically and internally to assist in the treatment of acne and congestion, though I believe that like many things, it can often take weeks and indeed months to see results. I haven't been using Bioderma Sebium long enough to make a subjective assessment, though I will say that I appreciate using products with ingredients that are formulated to assist in improving any aspect of dealing with acne prone skin. Bloody acne.

I will certainly continue to use it, and will definitely update you with any positive findings!!

Worth noting, is that Bioderma Sebium is not designed for use on the eye area, which I believe is due to it sebum regulating ingredients. This may be of concern for you if you prefer to use just one product to remove all of your makeup. It does not create an issue for me at all, as I mentioned earlier I still continue with my normal cleansing routine in the evening, and I choose to use cleansers that also gently and effectively remove my eye makeup. 

Bioderma Sensibio H20 and Sebium H20 are available now in the reverse pump bottle, in a hefty 500ml size from Priceline Pharmacies for the recommended retail price of $44.95 AU, though I have seen them in my local Priceline recently for $39.99 AU. The larger bottle certainly represent good value for money, and the bottles have a screw top lid which makes refilling a no brainer.

Are you a Bioderma fan? Have you tried the Bioderma Sebium? I would be interested in hearing your thoughts and experience if you have!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Blessings,

Lou xo

Disclaimer: This product was kindly sent to me for consideration. As always, I share my honest thoughts with you after appropriate time to trial and form an opinion. Cheers xo

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Vitamin Science Vita A Calming Serum | Review and Giveaway!

I must confess, I am rather partial to facial serums. Actually, it's pretty safe to say I am a little obsessed with them. The serums that I enjoy the most, and reach for on a daily basis will typically contain a nice cocktail of skin loving ingredients that will protect, hydrate and soothe my acne prone skin. As a general rule, serums typically contain more concentrated amounts of active ingredients, and less "filling" ingredients. Their thin, fluid consistency allows them to be absorbed quickly and easily. I tend to rely on them much more than any high tech expensive moisturiser for those reasons.
  

I love that I can easily incorporate a serum into both my morning and evening skincare regimes, and I often choose different serums depending on how my skin is looking and feeling. And of course they do feel just lovely to apply...let's not forget the sensory aspect!

I was recently contacted by Luxola , an online beauty shopping mecca based in Singapore, and given the opportunity to trial the Vita A Calming Serum,  from the Korean brand Vitamin Science.

 Keep on reading to see what I thought of the Vita A Calming Serum, and find out how to enter for the chance to try it for yourself!

Vita A Calming Serum is an extremely lightweight, slightly milky serum that claims to contain all natural and organic ingredients.

The serum claims to assist in anti-aging, the prevention and treatment blemishes, hydrating and protecting the skin, and decreasing inflammation. I had to do a bit of research regarding some of the ingredients that I had not heard of, and indeed had difficulty pronouncing!

The serums' base is primarily Aloe vera, Glycerin, Hyaluronic acid and Jojoba seed oil, all lovely hydrating and soothing ingredients. A couple of the more unfamiliar (to me) ingredients included Pinus Koraiensis Seed extract, Portulaca Oleracea extract (commonly known as Pigweed), Scutellaria Baicalensis ( skullcap extract ), and Paeonia Suffruticosa Extract ( Peony Root extract ). Phew.

Interestingly,  these ingredients have been used for many years in traditional Chinese medicine with the express purpose of decreasing inflammation, improving the elasticity of the skin, providing an anti-irritant effect, and anti-oxidant protection to the skin. 

Vitamin Science, though new to me, have been in the skincare business for 15 years, and claim to be paraben free, contain no animal ingredients, and do not test on animals.

I have been using the serum over a period of 3-4 weeks, and though I cannot comment on any anti-aging claims, I can say that I found it to assist in the overall reduction in redness and inflammation in my skin. I also found that my skin texture was smoother and looked more refined. It absorbs rapidly, leaving my skin feeling comfortable and refreshed. I also found it to be quite hydrating, despite it's almost water like consistency, something fellow oily/combination/dehydrated girls might appreciate.

This serum does contain fragrance, and I was suprised to find that fragrance was listed as the last ingredient, because it is really quite noticeably floral, and does tend to linger on the skin for around 10-15 minutes. Something to note if you have issues with fragrance in your skincare.

Follow the link here and you will find that Vita A Calming serum is currently 40% off, normally $69.23, now down to $41.54! 

Luxola have a large number of both cosmetic and skincare brands..well worth a good mooch around!

I also have a discount code that you can use for your first order with Luxola;

Enter the code  LX-LOUISE at the checkout for 20% off your first order. This code is available to use storewide, with the exclusion of the following brands; Sigma, SK11, Derchos by Vichy, Vichy and Skinceuticals.

This code is valid only until 30th November 2014. This is not an afflilate link, I do not receive renumeration or any benefits if you use this code.



Giveaway Terms and Conditions;

The winner will receive one Vitamin Science Vita A Calming serum 30ml

1. This giveaway is open to Australian residents only.

2. You must be over 18 years of age, or have your parents permission to enter.

3. Please leave a comment, in the comment section in this blog post below, telling me your name, and your current favourite serum, and why you love it!

4. One entry per person only.

5. This giveaway will end on Thursday December 4th at 12 Midnight ( ESDST ) Sydney time.

6. If you are happy to, at your discretion,  leave either an email address, or your Instagram account name in the comment to assist me to contact you.

7. I will announce the winner, chosen at random, on this blog post on Monday December 7th. If you have not left me a way to contact you, do check back on that date to see if you have won!!

EDIT: This giveaway is now CLOSED. The winner has been contacted and the prize has been received. Thank you to those who entered!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Blessings, 

Lou xo

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Christmas Gift Ideas | Baylis & Harding England | Gift Sets

Kicking off some Christmas gift ideas today on The Beauty Vine with some lovely, affordable gift sets from the well known, and highly regarded English brand Baylis & Harding.

Baylis & Harding have been creating beautiful toiletries and gift sets for over 40 years, and to this day remain a family owned business. A household name in the UK, Baylis & Harding have a range of gift sets for both men and women, the only problem you'll have is deciding which one to choose! 

Each gift set is designed to bring you a little bit of tranquility and relaxation. Whether it's washing your hands with a beautifully fragranced hand soap, or taking time out for a relaxing soak in the bath.

Available to purchase now in Australia from Big W stores across the nation, these gift sets represent fantastic value for money, and just happen to feel lovely, and smell delicious too!

Baylis & Harding Royale Bouquet Classic Hand Wash and Lotion Gift Set RRP $10.00 AU

Two lovely products for anyone's bathroom, you cannot go wrong with this hand wash and lotion gift set. The Lilac and English Lavender hand wash is lovely, non-drying and smells beautiful, and the Lemon Blossom & White Rose hand and body lotion is lightweight, moisturising and smells gorgeous!

The scents are not 'old-fashioned' or muddy, they are fresh and modern. A great gift idea for a friend, school teacher, or family member... while you are there, pop one of these gift sets in your basket for yourself...just a thought...

Baylis & Harding French Lavender & Cassis Foot Pampering Set    RRP $10.00 AU

One for the lovers of a nice pampering treatment for the feet, this gift set contains French Lavender & Cassis reviving foot soak crystals, soothing foot balm, and a gorgeously soft pair of socks. The scent is definitely lavender based, but is soft and not overpowering. Really nice. 

Yes, it is summertime in Australia, however I know plenty of people who have chronically cold feet, and still love to wear socks even in warmer weather...and these are so lovely and soft. If not, it's easy to tuck them away in your drawer, ready for the coolness of Autumn to arrive...

Baylis & Harding Mulberry, Hollyhock and Thyme Skin Spa Weekend Bag Gift Set RRP $20.00 AU

Complete with a LOT of products to have you clean, fresh, moisturised and smelling like a spa, the Skin Spa Weekend Bag gift set is a winner. The mulberry, hollyhock and thyme fragrance has a herbal, fresh, uplifting scent, and the white bag is really so very cute. For a beauty lover like myself, it would be perfect for travel. I would love to receive this a gift! All three of the smaller bottles in this set are body cleansers/bodywash, so you have the option, if you wish, to split up the products and make up a couple of little gift sets of your own, or use them as stocking stuffers. Did I mention I really like the bag...?

For family or friends who might prefer a citrus scented gift pack, Baylis & Harding have two Sweet Mandarin & Grapefruit gift sets that both look and sound gorgeous, containing body products along with either a white bathrobe, or a pretty pair of slippers. Nice.

Have you noticed these gift sets in your local Big W? Do you love receiving gift packs like these?

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Blessings,

Lou xo

Disclaimer: I was sent these gift sets all the way from the UK for consideration, and will always be grateful for such opportunities. As always, my thoughts are my own, and shared with you after appropriate time to trial and form opinions. Cheers xo

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Sephora Haul | Part Two | Urban Decay, Anastasia Beverly Hills, Benefit Cosmetics

So I did promise to not bore you all again with the thrilling description of my Sephora New York shopping experience, as seen in part one of my Sephora haul. So I won't.

 Safe to say, it was gloriously glorious.

Today, in part two, I have some purchases from Urban Decay, Anastasia Beverly Hills, and Benefit Cosmetics to share with you.

Some of these products have been swiftly elevated to daily must haves, and one product I am yet to try on my eyeballs...still! Not enough makeup hours in the day!

Let's start with Urban Decay...

Urban Decay Naked Basics 2
Swatched as the shades appear in the palette, in natural light.

I own only one other Urban Decay palette, the rosey toned Naked 3. When the Naked Basics 2 was released a few months ago, I was very keen to make it mine, and managed to convince myself that I needed it even more because I did not own the original Naked Basics.

Touted as the cool toned sister of the original, I have been reaching for this on an almost daily basis. It is beautiful. All of the shadows are soft, creamy, and blend like a dream. It will give you the most beautiful natural eye look, and the darker shades add depth and definition perfectly if you wish to intensify the look. I really love it... really really...

Benefit Gimme Brow Light/Medium,   ABH Brow Wiz Medium Brown,   Benefit fakeup Concealer

One newby from Benefit, and one repurchase! If you have seen any of my 'face of the day' posts on Instagram you may have noticed that Benefit's fakeup concealer is in almost every one. I have reviewed it in full here. In short,  this is my go-to daily undereye concealer.  It gives me medium coverage with added lightweight hydration. A quick swipe under each eye, pat it in with my finger and I'm done. I purchased my first Benefit fakeup in January of this year, and am only now coming to the end of my first tube. Impressed.

Benefit Gimme Brow was on my list of things to purchase on this trip, and it has not disappointed. Absolutely worth the hype in my opinion, it is now the daily second step in my brow routine. The light/medium shade is perfect for my brows. I like how it has very little warmth in it. I love that it adds a little extra fullness, whilst holding my brows in shape all day. Bloody good.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz was another product I was determined to take home. I chose the shade medium brown (previously medium ash) and it is now the first step in my brow routine. The shade is perfectly ashy, the fine tip is so easy to use, and allows me to add definition to my brows without them looking too muddy, or overfilled. The combination of the Brow Wiz  and Gimme Brow is outstanding. The Bees Knees of brows...highly recommend this combination!!

Anastasia Beverly Hills Tamanna Eye Shadow Palette
Swatched as shades appear in the palette, in natural light.

The purchase of the Anastasia Beverly Hills Tamanna eye shadow palette was not at all planned, but it somehow found its way into my little basket. Such pretty shades, and as you can see from the above photograph, they are all very nicely pigmented.
It was definitely calling my name, and I was certainly swayed by the $29.00 US price tag.
I am looking forward to having a good play with this one!

If you would like to check out Part One of my Sephora Haul, you can find it here.

Coming up shortly will be the final Sephora Haul post...yes, there are a few more things to share (gulp) and then a little Duane Reade reveal...cos I just had to do some drugstore haulin'!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Blessings,

Lou xo

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