Manicures Of The Month #3

Time for another monthly round up of my recent manicures. Gosh this year is flying by!! I have some old favourites and some new polishes from the brand Dance Legend to share with you today. As I have mentioned previously, these are photos that I share on Instagram. Leave me a comment below with your Instagram name so I can follow you, if I am not already!

Dance Legend - Comet Tail ( Galaxy Collection )

The brand Dance Legend is new to me. I first came across these stunning polishes on the SoNailicious blog and instagram account. Purchased from the So Nailicious Boutique, I was instantly mesmerised by the beautiful colour shifts...as was anyone who clapped eyes on my nails whilst I was wearing it. You will definitely receive many compliments with your nails dressed in these!
Comet Tail has a purple/magenta/green/gold shift with fine holographic glitter. Beautiful. I did three thin coats plus top coat in the picture above.

Dance Legend - Sulley ( Chameleon )

Such a stunningly beautiful jewel toned multi-chrome. Not much else to say about this one. It fits nicely into the Duck's Nuts category ( ie. Holy Grail ) Again, 3 thin coats plus top coat. It also looks beautiful with a matte top coat... I feel the need for a back up...

Rimmel London - Pear Drop
Accent Nail - Essie - Beyond Cozy

My first time attempting to use a dotting tool. Indeed, one of those things that looks so easy when someone else does it! Pear Drop unfortunately doesn't have the nice wide curved brush that other Rimmel formula's do, and it is a little streaky and difficult to work with. It will even out ok with the second coat, but because of  the metallic finish it has a tendency to show brush marks. I obviously need some practice with my dots...stay tuned...

Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure - Commander in Chic

I have mentioned in previous posts my love for this formula, and the lovely wide, curved brush that fits my nail bed perfectly. Two easy coats, plus top coat for the above photograph. This shade is the perfect winter neutral in my opinion. Highly recommend!

Covergirl Outlast Stay Brilliant  " lav-endure"
Accent Nail - Maybelline Color Show "Gold's Night Out"

Such a pretty polish this one. The perfect pastel lavender. Beautiful formula, and very glossy finish even without a top coat. A definite favourite of mine! If you are looking for a good gold glitter than look no further than Gold's Night Out...you could almost get away with one coat. Even an old girl like me needs a bit of bling now and then...

And....I was so very excited to see Mary from A Love Tart  loved this mani enough to re-create it!! The funny thing is, that I believe I purchased lav-endure after seeing it on her last year! Thanks Mary, you really made my day!



Do you have any of these polishes? What are your current favourites? Do you have any "must haves" that I must have??!! Do let me know in the comments below!




Thanks so much for stopping by!



Blessings,



Lou xo

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Single... and Fabulous!! The Beauty Vine's Current Favourite Single Eyeshadows

I only have a handful of eyeshadow palettes, and while they are lovely, and I enjoy using them very much, it is the single eyeshadows that I reach for on a daily basis. Trying to make myself look a little more presentable is my aim in the morning...there is certainly no "I woke up like this" at The Beauty Vine HQ, I can assure you!!

So today I thought I would share some of the single eyeshadows that are currently occupying a draw in my little acrylic storage. I have recently had a tidy up and sort through of my makeup (gosh I love doing that!) and have collected a few favourites that are currently tickling my fancy to chat about and swatch for you. I have a few high end, and a few affordable options,  and I feel that they all fall into the neutral category. I think these particular shades would look beautiful with any eye colour...hopefully something for everyone! One feature they all have in common is that they all contain some degree of shimmer, and are mostly mid-toned shades.

I remember seeing a video from Emily Eddington from Beauty Broadcast ( EmilyNoel83 on You Tube) about single eyeshadows that work well as a one shadow look some time ago. The idea being that the shades will catch the light on your lid, and then when blended into the crease take on more depth to give your crease definition without the addition of another shadow. I typically use two brushes, a flat shader brush to pack colour onto the lid, and a fluffy blending brush to diffuse the colour into the crease. You could certainly get away with one brush, by just using your finger to pat the colour onto the lid, and then blend with the fluffy brush. I have two brushes pictured below from Bdellium Tools, the tapered blending no.785, and the flat shader no.777.  I also enjoy the Real Techniques eye brushes very much. If I feel I've blended the shade too high, I will take a dab of pressed face powder, and blend with the fluffy brush to soften the edge. It's simple, quick and easy, three things I need in the morning when I am trying to get four children ready for the day!

L-R  Laura Mercier - African Violet    NARS -  Ondine    Sunday Riley - Lady Godiva

L-R   African Violet,  Ondine,  Lady Godiva


Laura Mercier - African Violet.... Now I don't own any Laura Mercier eyeshadow palettes, and I believe this shade is in most of her palettes. Some may not consider this a neutral shade, but I do! I think it works beautifully as a one shadow look. The light catches the golden shimmer, and the pretty violet undertones look deeper and richer in the crease. I have also found that when patted over black liner along the lash line, it morphs into a beautiful antique gold shade...really pretty!

NARS - Ondine...I blame Anna from Vivianna Does Makeup for this one. It isn't the most pigmented of eyeshadows, however it is easily built up, blends beautifully and I just I love the tone of it. Brown with a hint of plum/purple. Love.

Sunday Riley - Lady Godiva... Another well known UK vlogger Ruth Crilly from A Model Recommends used this shade a few months ago in one of her videos, and I was immediately drawn to it. I managed to track it down at Mecca Cosmetica here in Australia, and it is now one of my most reached for shades. As you can see from the photo above, I have made quite a dent in it! It is so unique to me, so creamy and buttery, on the lids it's a warm toned taupe, and then blends out into a beautiful rosy, tan hue...I'm seriously obsessed with this shade! Highly recommend!

L-R   Wet'n'Wild - Nutty,  Rimmel London - Backstage,  Essence Cosmetics - Metropolitan

L-R   Nutty,  Backstage,  Metropolitan

Wet'n'Wild - Nutty...my lonely only Wet'n'Wild shadow, I have always meant to explore their 3 and 6 pan palettes, but just haven't gotten there yet! It is a gorgeous taupe, warm undertones, smooth and easy to blend, I love this on the lower lash line as well.

Rimmel London - Backstage...packs a punch in the shimmer department, but more of a cooler tone in my humble opinion. You can really get a glam look with this shade, and easily transition to a night time look with some liner and lashings of mascara. 

Essence Cosmetics - Metropolitan...is more of a deep brown, and probably the darkest shade of my current faves. However, it blends out really nicely into a lovely warm brown, and just fades away into the skin perfectly above the crease. 

I try to be as sensible as I can when it comes to spending my money on a single eyeshadow. In reality, it is not the most cost effective purchase! However, I am really pleased with the high-end shades I have shown you today, and would not hesitate to recommend them. 

Have you tried any of these shades? What are you favourite single eyeshadows? Do leave a comment below, I'd love to hear from you!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Blessings,

Lou xo

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Natural Instinct...A Family Skincare Favourite | Review

I would like to share some lovely, affordable Australian Skincare products with you today. I was honored to be offered the opportunity to try these products, and have put them through their paces ( myself and my children!) to review for you today.

Natural Instinct is an Australian brand which has been providing natural, organic skin and hair care products for the whole family for over a decade. I have reviews of three body products, and 2 facial care products to share with you. I hope you find it helpful! 

I have noticed over the last few years that we, as consumers, want more and more from our products. Skincare companies are rising to the challenge of producing not only a quality product, but where possible using natural and organic ingredients, which have been sourced ethically and responsibly, whilst doing no harm to other living things, and concurrently having the greatest respect and concern for our environment, not only in production, but also in the manufacture of the packaging in which they reside. Whilst not every consumer feels equally as passionate about these factors, there are many companies, both small and large, that are delivering the goods. There are certainly more and more options for those wanting to use natural products, not only for themselves but for their families as well.

Now, whilst I do not place myself exclusively in a strict "Green Beauty Only" category, on my travels through the world of beauty and skincare, I am certainly discovering some lovely brands, with lovely products. And I like them.

If you would like to hear about my thoughts on these next few products...please read on! Go on...you know you want to...

Natural Instinct Cream Cleanser 125ml RRP $9.95 

This is a thick luxurious cream cleanser, full of lovely oils to gently but effectively remove makeup and cleanse the skin. Some of the oils include Safflower Seed Oil,  Calendula Flower Oil, Avocado, Rosehip and Jojoba Oils. Rose Flower water and Witch Hazel extracts are also included, along with the  essential oil blend of Lavender, Lemon and Sage. 

Even though I do have oily/combo skin, I prefer to use a cream, lotion or oil cleanser in my skincare routine in the evening, because I feel that they are more protective, and don't strip the skin of it natural oils. You only need a small amount of this cleanser, this handy tube will last you very nicely. 

I massage the cleanser onto a slightly damp face for about a minute, then remove with a hot flannel/washcloth. If I have been wearing spf, or a lot of makeup I will do a second cleanse ( most days I guess ) This cleanser also works beautifully for me in removing eye makeup, and I am always grateful to find cleansers that can be used on the eyes without irritation. My skin feels soft, comfortable and is clean without feeling tight or dry. I think this cleanser would suit most skin types, particularly normal to dry. If you are prone to acne like me, then just make sure to remove it thoroughly with your warm flannel. If you find it a little too rich, just emulsify a little water with the cleanser to thin it out. It has a very subtle scent only, barely noticeable to me, and I am sure would not be offensive to those who are sensitive to fragrance.

Natural Instinct Gentle toner 125ml RRP $9.95

Refreshing and gentle, this hydrating toner is a pleasure to use. I typically prefer hydrating toners in a spray bottle, and have decanted this into an old empty spray bottle. You could, of course, use it on a cotton pad and sweep over your skin after cleansing, I just like the feeling of misting my face like a mad woman ( I have been known to sometimes go a bit overboard ) after I have cleansed. Gosh it feels nice!

I don't typically rely on toners to remove any residual cleanser, that's the job of my beloved flannel!

This water based, alcohol free toner has Glycerin as its second ingredient, which is going to hold the moisture in your skin ( also known as a humectant ) and also includes Witch Hazel, Rose water and Orange Flower water, all known to soothe and hydrate the skin whilst providing anti-inflammatory benefits. Nice.

Natural Instinct Baby Body Wash 250ml  RRP $7.95

Tried, tested and approved by my children and I, this extra gentle wash is lovely. Now my youngest child is 3 years old, and my eldest is 10 years old, so not exactly in the baby stage anymore, however I still like to use gentle products for their skin, which like mine, is prone to dryness and winter excema. I would definitely recommend this gentle product for babies and young children. When my four were young babies, I would always have an evening ritual consisting of a lovely warm deep bath, a lovely long feed, and then cuddles and bed. I would always have a gentle baby wash on hand, normally with a little bit of lavender in it, which I believed helped not only them to relax, but me as well!

This lovely gentle baby wash contains a calming blend of Lavender, Lemon and Sage essential oils, and like all of the Natural Instinct products, is Sulfate, Paraben, Preservative, Petrochemical and Mineral oil free ( among other exclusions ). It works well in the shower as a body wash, and also makes a lovely, relaxing bubble bath. Thumbs up from The Beauty Vine's offspring! 

Every product in the range has this information on the back, including the FREE FROM section

Natural Instinct Energising Body Wash 500ml RRP $11.95

On arrival to The Beauty Vine HQ, this one went straight into my shower, and will probably be featured soon in an empties post! A sulfate free, gorgeous smelling body wash that still manages to lather nicely ( love my bubbles ) without drying out your skin.

Citrus essential oils are some of my favourite scents. I find they help to clear and refresh my mind, which by the end of the day is barely functioning (which my children and husband will attest to ). I used both Lemon and Lime essential oils in my labour and birth with my fourth ( and last! ) child....they were brilliant for simultaneously clearing and calming the mind.

The Energising kick in this body wash is thanks to a blend of Lemon, Lime, Lemongrass and Geranium essential oils, with a subtle hint of ginger for warmth. Love. And it has a pump. Love that too.

It is also available in a Relaxing formula, which contains a similar blend of oils as the Baby Body wash.

It is next on my list to try...

Natural Instinct Body Lotion 500ml RRP $11.95

This deceivingly lightweight lotion packs a punch in the hydration department. It absorbs quickly and easily, whilst still leaving your skin feeling moisturised and comfortable. You can thank a good hit of Sweet Almond Oil for that, along with Wheatgerm, Avocado, Rosehip oils, and Mango Seed Butter.

Again, the combination of Lavender, Lemon and Sage essential oils provide a lovely calming fragrance.

I like to slather this all over my tired body after my evening shower. A little goes a long way with this lotion as well, and the large size, like the body wash, I think represents good value for money. I have also used this lotion on my children after their bath/shower, more so in winter when their skin can be dry and itchy/irritated... and if I happen to forget and start throwing their PJ's on they will certainly remind me... "Mum!...You didn't put my cream on!" 

You can find the Natural Instinct website Here . You will find a good amount of information about the company, and of course the products, complete with all ingredients listed. Natural Instinct also have a hair care range. You will find an information page about the ingredients they choose to include in their products, with a simple, easy to understand explanation of each ingredient and its' benefits for the skin. 

There are also links to online stockists, as well as information regarding availability in Pharmacies across the country. As the time of publishing this review, I could only find one online stockist who would ship internationally, unfortunately at a rather hefty cost. Hopefully these lovely products will be available internationally soon!

Have you tried any Natural Instinct products? What are some of your favourite skincare and bodycare products and/or brands? I would love to hear from you in the comments below, feel free to say hello anytime!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Blessings,

Lou xo

As I mentioned in the beginning of this post, these products were sent to me for review. I feel very lucky indeed to be given the opportunity to do so, and will always be honest in my reviews, whether I have purchased the item or it has been gifted. Cheers.

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Essence Cosmetics XXXL Shine Lipgloss | Swatches and Chat!

When it comes to lipgloss, I am really not too fussy. Aside from the shade/colour, the most important feature for me would be that it HAS to feel good on my lips. Not only on application, but as it wears as well. I am not at all bothered if a lipgloss doesn't last long on my lips, I am happy to reapply if it feels nice! On a daily basis, it will often be a gloss, or a tinted lip balm that I will reach for in the mornings. They are all quick, easy, and don't require a great deal of precision ! I don't mind if a lipgloss has a bit of tackiness to it, it just helps it to last a little longer. Anything that falls into the blatantly sticky category gets the boot from me ( Lancome Juicy tubes I'm looking at you ).

So enough rambling... I have some thoughts and swatches to share with you today featuring 3 shades of Essence Cosmetics XXXL Shine Lipgloss. My first purchase was the shade Nude Kisses, and I loved it so much I immediately felt compelled to purchase some more shades to try. There were a couple of more seasonally appropriate shades in the display, but they had been opened and were oozing their contents out of the tube and onto the display, as I sadly discovered when I picked one up ( yuck ). Moving on...

If there are any lipgloss lovers in the northern hemisphere reading my drivel...you might like the look of these particular shades for your summertime shenanigans! Concurrently, if you are deeply embedded in an icy cold winter like me, and don't give a toss, throwing caution to the wind and wearing whatever shade of lipgloss you feel like...then these may just tickle your fancy as well!

From Top to Bottom;

Bright Side Of Life... a very pretty peachy/coral with slight shimmer

Nude Kisses ... a very pretty sheer mauve with shimmer

Just Gorgeous ... a bright watermelon pinky/red

Heavy swatch in natural light,  L-R- Just Gorgeous, Nude Kisses and Bright Side Of Life 

There are many pretty shades, they are inexpensive, and they feel good on your lips. They are very shiny, as you see from the photo above, and they smell good too! They have a nice, long doe foot applicator, and are available in 11 shades for the bargain price of $3.25 AU each. I have found these to last for about 2 hours on my lips, which I think is pretty reasonable for a gloss.

I always find the Essence displays in Target and Priceline hard to walk past! They have suprised me on many occasions with the quality of their blushes, eyeshadows, lipsticks and nail polishes.

Have you tried these glosses? Do you have a favourite shade? Do let me know in the comments below, I always love to hear from you!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Blessings,

Lou xo

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Alpha-H Instant Facial | Review

I was honored to attend the launch of Alpha-H's new product,  Instant Facial  in Sydney recently. The evening was hosted by Michelle Doherty, the owner and founder of Alpha-H. There is something quite unique and special about hearing the owner of a brand talk about not only their products, but share their personal skincare story as well. It gives you a more holistic view of a brand to hear about it from its infancy, to the present day. Alpha-H is a successful, internationally acclaimed, award winning Australian skincare brand. I have been using Alpha-H products for about a year now, and I have been using chemical exfoliants as a part of my skincare routine for around 2 years.

Instant Facial is a product designed to slot in to your existing skincare routine. It could be described as a hydrating/exfoliating toner hybrid. Used after cleansing, and before your serum and moisturiser, it's glycolic acid goes to work exfoliating dead skin cells and encouraging the formation of collagen, whilst a blend of natural plant and herb extracts provide hydration, contain soothing anti-inflammatory and antiseptic benefits, and also temporarily smooth and refine the texture of the skin's surface. Sound a bit too good to be true?


Instant Facial  is described by Alpha-H as "Botanical Brilliance" in a bottle, so let's have a look at some of the ingredients...

Witch Hazel... the second ingredient listed, it is well known for its astringent properties, and often seen included in skincare products, or used on its own as a toner. Known to refine pores and hydrate the skin,  as well as provide antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. I can notice a subtle scent of witch hazel when I use Instant Facial.

Glycerin... a very common ingredient in many skincare products, it draws water from both the environment and the deeper layers of skin, pulling it  into the outer layers of skin. It is hydrating and protecting.

Glycolic Acid... one of the most common AHA's ( alpha hydroxy acid ) typically derived from sugar cane. As I mentioned above, glycolic acid is an exfoliator, removing the layer of dead skin cells from the surface, allowing the fresh new skin cells to be revealed. Its ability to dissolve dead skin cells aides in the clearing of blocked pores and blackheads, it can reduce fine lines, scarring and hyperpigmentation. It will also, importantly, allow your skin to be able to absorb more efficiently those lovely serums, oils and moisturisers that we rely on to nourish, protect and repair our skin.

Plankton Extract... known to be used in skincare products for it moisturising, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. I did come across a small amount of literature which did suggest that the majority of marine extracts ( Marine Algae ) are thought to be comedogenic. I have not noticed any increase in congestion or comedones forming on my skin, and I am of the belief that the glycolic acid present in the product would counteract any such effect, if it does indeed occur at all.

Chamomile Extract, Thyme Extract, Arnica Flower Extract, Aloe Leaf Juice...a nice cocktail of soothing, anti-inflammatory, and skin repairing ingredients. Arnica is also known for its healing properties, stimulating the formation of new tissue.

Cypress and Barley Extracts... Cypress is know for its hydrating and pore refining qualities, while Barley is anti-inflammatory, and is also known to be a source of zinc, which aids in healing and repairing the skin. Worth noting is that Cypress and Barley do appear towards to end of the ingredient list, which generally means they are in smaller quantities.

I actually saw results after only a couple of days of using Instant Facial, and my skin is quite accustomed to products containing glycolic acid. I think the beauty of this product, is that its effects are both immediate, and ongoing. We all want that fresh, bright smooth complexion, and often look to makeup, or expensive serums and moisturisers to achieve it. 

Both alcohol and oil free, Instant Facial does smooth, and reduce the appearance of my fine lines...and I do have fine lines yes!! It has also reduced the appearance of my enlarged pores. Now, if pores had their very own little muscles, they would be able to close and open. Unfortunately, they don't, it is not possible for pores to be 'closed' as such. However, I do find that my pores are "less noticeable". My skin looks more radiant, even toned, and just healthier. Fresh. Glowing.

Instant Facial is packaged in a spray bottle, however I prefer to spray it onto a cotton round and then apply to my face. I like to be precise with where I am putting glycolic acid. You can spray directly onto your face if you wish, however you will need to cover your eyes. Two sprays directly onto the cotton round is the perfect amount for my face, neck and decollatage. Through my own experience of using this product over the last 5-6 weeks, any more than that seems to be excessive, and leaves an almost tacky residue on my skin. Less is more for me.

I do feel the 'tingle' that comes with glycolic acid products. It almost feels 'prickly' to me. I feel it immediately on application, and it usually lasts 10-15 seconds before dissipating. It is normal to feel this to some degree. As I mentioned earlier, I have been using AHA and BHA exfoliants for the last two years. When I first started to incorporate exfoliating toners into my routine I started gently, using them 3 times a week at first to see how my skin would react. I then built up to every second day, and then finally to daily use. If you are just starting out with acid exfoliators,  don't feel like you need to rush into twice daily use immediately...it is ok to take your time, and approach them gently.  

It is recommended to use alone for an intensive treatment, if you wish. I believe that this allows the glycolic acid to work its magic without being hindered by other products being layered on top of the skin. It is important that exfoliating preparations have a low pH, in order for them to work efficiently. Healthy skin actually sits at a pH of 4.5-5.5, which is naturally acidic. Although it does contain hydrating and water holding ingredients, it does not provide enough hydration on its own for me, so on a daily basis I will continue on with my serum and moisturiser. I do like to wait about 2-3 minutes after application for it to absorb and settle on my skin.

To keep it all in the context of my skincare routine, I am using other products that I am very happy with, that I believe are also contributing to how I see my skin looking and feeling at the moment. Some of them are from Alpha-H, some of them are not. I think the cleansers, serums, and oils that I use, along with Instant Facial are improving the overall health of my skin, helping reduce the length and severity of breakouts, and giving me more of a glow. Because we all want a little bit of glow don't we?

Do let me know in the comments below if you have tried Instant Facial! Do you have a favourite exfoliating product? I would love to hear from you!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Blessings,

Lou xo

This product was gifted to me by Alpha-H for review. This does not affect my thoughts or opinions shared about the product. I will indeed be spending my own money and repurchasing this product when I run out.

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Manicures of the Month #2

So another month has flown by, and I have been sorely neglecting my blog in the last 2 weeks due to life just being busy with work and four little children! It is so hard to find that balance between giving all you need to your family, and trying to savour a little time to follow your own passions and dreams...does anyone else feel this way? Do tell me I am not alone here?!

It's round 2 of Manicures of the Month today... these are some of the pictures I share on Instagram of my nails. I have recently aquired some new polishes from SoNailicious Boutique that I will be featuring  in the coming weeks, so stay tuned for those...they are spectacular!!

Anyway...on with today's post!

Essie's 'Bahama Mama' .... This type of "ox-blood" shade was all the rage with bloggers last year. This is two coats, nice formula, just didn't wow me for some reason?

Powder Perfect's 'Tristan' .... a quintessential mint green with the slightest hint of blue. Opaque in two coats...you know how I feel about Powder Perfect polishes! Always on point...and I believe Jacinta has just released a new collection...*tries to control self*

Mode Cosmetics 'Boysenberry'... you may be interested to know that this polish will set you back just under $3.00 AU... this beauty is almost opaque in one coat, I just prefer two coats as it adds to the depth of colour...so stunning. Highly recommend this shade!

Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure 'Cafe au Lait' ... the search for a truly great nude polish can be difficult, and a lot of it comes down to finding one that suits your skintone. As you can see from the picture above, I am about a quarter of the way through this bottle, which says a lot considering how many nail polishes I have. This shade has a very fine silver shimmer running through it. Though difficult to see when on the nail, it gives the shade a beautiful glow, and that is what I think really brings this one to life. Lovely formula, and a brilliant wide curved brush. Probably my favourite mani this last month.

Revlon 'Super-Powered' ... part of the Spiderman 2 colour collection that Revlon released recently. This is a stunning sparkling blue with a very subtle purple/teal shift. Lovely smooth formula, two coats and you are done. Pretty! 

Essie Van D' Go ( base ) and 'Set in Stones' glitter ... so this mani was admittedly a fail for me. The pretty turquoise stones you see are a nail decal from Nailene. After placing them towards the base of my nail, I then filled in the half moon with Set in Stones, which unfortunately was flowing with clear base and not much glitter for me that night!! Half of my decals are not centred properly, and I had flooded cuticles and not much glitter. There are many times when I think that I should have quit while I was ahead, and left it as a pretty, peachy pink mani... sometimes less is more with nails too!!

Thanks so much for stopping by!

Blessings,

Lou xo

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Antipodes Aura Manuka Honey Mask | Review

I think I have a bit of a soft spot for anything that hails from New Zealand. Pineapple Lumps come to mind...Rush Monroe's Ice Cream...rolling green hills...beautiful wineries...the list could go on!

My mum is a Kiwi, so really it is my family heritage which binds my heart to the Land of the Long White Cloud, ( all food jokes aside ). And proud of it I am!!

Antipodes are a New Zealand skincare brand, offering natural, organic skincare products with a conscious respect for our environment. Antipodes promote the use of sustainable resources in the manufacture and design of their packaging, in the choice of ingredients, and in the manufacture of their products.

 On a recent trip to the North Island, I found myself in a lovely little pharmacy in the city of Wellington. I had heard, and read great things about the Aura Manuka Mask, and knew from the ingredients that it would likely be a good skincare investment.

I say investment because this mask will set you back in the vicinity of $50 AU. Not cheap by any means, but for me personally, good quality skincare will always take priority over a beautifully packaged high end colour cosmetic.

As you can see in the photograph above, manuka honey is the second on the ingredient list in this mask. Manuka honey is produced from the Manuka Tree, which is native to New Zealand, and also some parts of Australia.

 All types of honey have antibacterial properties, whether taken internally or applied topically. Manuka honey is know to be the most "active" in terms of its anti-microbial action, making it an ideal skincare ingredient for problem/blemish prone skin. It is also known to be cleansing, anti-inflammatory, intensely hydrating and nourishing for the skin, and has been used for these same reasons by the Maori people of New Zealand for many generations. Also worth noting is the inclusion of Grapeseed extract, Carrot oil, and Pohutukawa extract. All powerful, protective antioxidants. Ticking any boxes?

The mask has a very subtle scent of vanilla, and I can also smell the distinctly herbal, sweet scent of the honey. It is pleasant and unobtrusive. The aluminium tube keeps the product protected from light, maintaining the efficiacy and stability of the antioxidants, and is very user friendly. The mask has the consistency of a thick, creamy ointment, and is best applied with clean fingers. I apply any product left on my fingers onto the backs of my hands.

While this mask will essentially 'dry' a little on the face, it never hardens or feels uncomfortable. I will often forget to keep an eye on the time...

After a few rounds with my flannel and nice warm water, my skin looks and feels calm and hydrated. Any redness or inflammation is markedly reduced. My skin feels clean and balanced, and has a lovely glow.

I try to make time at least twice a week to add a mask to my skincare routine, and I love that I can be treating any blemishes gently, whilst adding hydration to my skin. This mask can also be used as a spot treatment for blemishes. Unlike a clay based mask, you will not get bits of mask falling off your face as it dries (anyone else?) so spot treating is as simple as dabbing on an ointment. Nice.
 For me, blemishes will heal faster, without the dry and flaky skin (sorry..) and I find any redness is calmed and soothed.

I can safely say that I will always have a tube of this mask in my skincare wardrobe.

You can read all about Antipodes, find stockists, and peruse their product range on their website here

Antipodes is also available online in Australia at Adore Beauty , and more recently, instore and online at Priceline Pharmacy.

You can find Antipodes in the UK at both Beauty Bay and Feel Unique.

Have you tried any products from Antipodes? I would love to hear any recommendations you might have, and you know how much I appreciate you taking the time to leave a comment below!


Thank so much for stopping by!



Blessings,



Lou xo

Disclaimer: As always, I make no guarantees regarding your own personal results with products. I am simply sharing my own experiences. Do always follow instructions as listed by the manufacturer.

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