Farewell Oasap!

I placed another order on the Oasap website, few weeks ago... if you're not sure what Oasap is, you can have a read to my previous post here... anyway, I was highly disappointed with what I received!

Chic Leather and Glossy Metal Bracelet

First of all, consistency! The box says Hermes and the bracelet Gucci... then, the website never mentioned anywhere that it is a pure and disgusting fake!

I never buy fakes and I don't care for them; actually, they even detract value from an item, in my opinion and I rather have the high street or the real deal.

On the picture on the website, you can only see a 'g' and again, as I said before, it doesn't say the gucci name anywhere in the description... I understand the disclosure 'the item may be slightly different from the picture' but this is a whole new level of deception. I'm happy with high street interpretation of the latest catwalk trend but purely copying a design is just wrong and bad taste!

 Although the cuff is quite nice, per se - I like the colour and the texture of the leather and the pink gold metal - the fact that there's that brand name there, it really puts me off from wearing it; I would have been happier if it simply said Oasap, instead.

Also, these marks on the metal don't seem to come off: they're from the protective film that I peeled off so it's basically glue residue. I polished but they are still there... bottom line - failure all round!

Sweet Candy Shaped Bobble Earrings
I also ordered these earrings - these are exactly what I expected... not much!
Simple, plastic studs but again, the colour is nothing as on the website: sure enough is green but I was expecting a pastel green.
 Unfortunately, they also broke the first time I wore them: basically, they just came unglued (easily sorted) but still not acceptable.

On top of that, I believe this website is unjustifiable pricey: the orange bracelet is $46 - really, would YOU pay that?
In the end, I came to the conclusion that I don't really want my blog to be associated with this poor quality merchandise... come on, how possibly could I sell you this sh*t!
I know that technically these items were given to me for free but If I don't like them, they have no value for me and I don't need any more clutter so...
...thank you but no thank you!

FOTD & OOTD - Sunny in Glasgow

Face: YSL Touche Eclat Foundation in BR40, Clinique City Block Sheer SPF25, Ysl Touche Eclat in 1, Urban Decay Dew Me Setting Spray, Nars Foreplay Palette (first outing!);

Eyes: Maybelline Color Tattoo 24hr in 30 Pomegranate Punk, Becca Eye Tint in Vicuna, L'Oreal Volume Million Lashes mascara in extra-black, Clinique High Impact mascara, Lancome Artliner in amber;

Lips: Revlon Colorburst Lip Butter in Strawberry Shortcake (not pictured).

***
 

Review / Nuxe 24hr Soothing and Rehydrating Fresh Mask

I remember Nuxe making the first appearance in the pharmacy of my hometown, in the early nineties; Italian pharmacies are very much like the French ones - where you can get great brands for really affordable prices - and I have often accompanied my mum in her shopping trips.

At the time tho, I didn't pay much attention as a teenage girl, attracted more to colourful packaging and the latest brands, advertised in my glossy magazines; after this fascination passed, tho... I did realised mums do know best! :)

Nuxe new range for Autumn 2012 - Creme Fraiche de Beaute' - is specifically formulated to give 24hr hydration.

8 Plant Milks and Aloe Vera boost the skin's water reserves and the ability to mantain optimal water levels, whilst Almond and Orange White Flowers sooth the skin and provide relief for discomfort as redness and irritation.

Nuxe Masque Creme Fraiche de Beaute'*

What's pretty innovative with this mask is that you can apply it to the eye contour, too!

 You leave it on for 10 minutes and then massage the remaining product into the skin; it, nearly, absorbs completely but as a final step is recommended to remove any excess with some toning lotion.

The mask feels very fresh on the skin and has a very strong flowery, natural scent.

It's very light on application and directed for all skin types - it leaves skin supple and fresh looking, without any sticky residue.
 I have been using it as a last minute, emergency treatment before going out: it doesn't leave any redness plus my eye area looks more relaxed and my concealer lasts very well, afterwards.

Included in this line, there are 3 face creams - specially formulated for sensitive/normal, sensitive/combination and dry/extra dry skin - and a serum for very dry skin.

Everything available from Spacenk.com and FeelUnique.com from the 1st of September and with prices starting from £18.50 for the face mask.

Are you going to pick something up from this range?

Review / Percy & Reed Lovingly Light Foaming Treatment Mask

I don't normally use hair styling products; I pretty much wash my hair 2/3 times per week - which is even too much as I was told by a trichologist; apparently your hair have great self-cleaning properties - and not using styling products, I don't need to wash them too often, luckily.

I do want to take care of my mane, though and I always do a mask or intensive treatment once a week.

One of my favourite masks is the Percy & Reed Totally TLC Hydrating Mask so I was so excited when I got the chance to try the new Percy & Reed Lovingly Light Foaming Treatment Mask*.

This mask promises to both condition and volumize, especially fine hair like mine.

It comes in a mousse form and you use it after shampooing; directions say to fill your palm and then distribute on the hair with a wide toothed comb.

I got to say I was a bit apprehensive about using the comb in the shower as my hair are usually realllllly knotted up and I can't attempt to touch them until AFTER conditioner.

BUT I was, incredibly, surprised because as soon as the product touched my head, my hair became so soft and manageable. Very very impressed with the quick performance, there!

Then, you leave it on for 2-5 minutes and rinse it off - it's recommended to use it once a week or when needed.

 Basically, it replaces the conditioner and I have to say I didn't miss my conditioner at all - it did a great job on that front, too.

The morning after, I also woke up with really soft and bouncy hair... you know that feeling when you get your hair done by the hairdresser? I was so surprised to be able to achieve that so effortlessly.

To sums up, I'm extremely pleased with this foaming mask - you just need to be careful and not use too much, because of the foam dispenser.

Are you going to give it a go?
x

FOTD & OOTD - newlyweds in Italy

Face: Lancome Teint Miracle in 010, Giorgio Armani Master Corrector in pink, Collection 2000 Lasting Perfection Concealer in medium, Mac Cremeblend Blush in Something Special, Mac Mineralize SkinFinish in medium, Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector in Pearl;

Eyes: Ysl Eyeliner Effet Faux Cils Shocking, Dior DiorShow New Look mascara, Benefit Eye Bright, Maybelline Eye Studio Duo in 62 Mocha Mirage;

Lips: Jane Iredale Just Kissed Lip & Cheek Stain.

***
My husband also took this photos of me...
Shirt: Warehouse
Bah: Hobbs

Skyn Iceland Glacial Face Wash

Skyn Iceland is one of the amazing brands that are going to be widely available in the Marks & Spencer Beauty Halls; if your city hasn't got a M&S new beauty hall yet - not to worry as you can buy these products on the website too.

Skyn Iceland's founder - Sarah Kugelman - decided to developed this brand, being affected herself with chronic stressed skin, due to high and busy pace of life.

She traveled to Iceland where, inspired by the calm and pure environment, she took advantage of the unspoiled waters and plants of this land.

She's using therapeutic glacial waters directly from Iceland, that are full of nurturing minerals from volcanic rocks that have been proven to treat many skin ailments as psoriasis and eczema.

These high performance formulations aim to restore the balance of stressed skin, reveling naturally glowing and healthy skin without the use of harsh chemicals.

Glacial Face Wash*

 The cleanser is enriched with Biospheric Complex - glacial water, arctic berries and pure oxygen - the core blend of ingredients of all Skyn Iceland products; this complex replenishes the elements that stress drains out from the skin.

Also,you'll find oat and amino-acid for a extra-gentle cleansing; white willow bark, a natural salicylic acid which provide antibacterial protection, preventing breakouts; cylindrica seed oil, a powerful antioxidant to fight free radicals.

This cleanser presents as a green pearlescent cream; you mix a small amount with some water in the palm of your hand and then massage onto face. It creates a white paste and I find it working very well with the Clarisonic, too.

I, especially, reach for this product when my skin is a bit more oily and hormonal as it provides a deep yet gentle detersion, leaving my face squeaky clean! 

Finally, it has a cooling and refreshing effect - ideal to wake you up in the morning!

Have you had the chance to visit a M&S Beauty Hall...

or try skyn Iceland, yet?

x

 

Gym Gear / Reebok

So, everything started when I decided I wanted a new water bottle for the gym... weeks later, I still don't have a bottle but plenty of new clothes. ;)

Usually, I'm not too fussed with what I wear at the gym - an old, shapeless tshirt and gym trousers - but I got across amazing prices on the Reebok website, during my online research... and It would have been rude not to, you know...
Everything was on sale - plus you get a whopping £15 off an order of £50 with your first purchase.

EasyTone Pant 
The grey pair are, currently, £16.50 down from £55.
 I got a pair of EasyTone trainers and I like them - I can't say I really see any improvement in the toning region (purely due to the trainers) but I'm of the opinion that every little helps! ;)
I'm so impressed with these trousers: they have a particular resistance lining on the thighs and I do feel that little bit harder to squat and lunge.
They, also, wear beautifully... I'm in love with these and I have ordered a second pair, in fact!

Shapewear Double Layer Tee
 £12 instead of £40
This t-shirt comes with inside panels that are supposed to shape and contour the body; I'm not too bothered about this feature.. also, I don't know how long the rubber strips are gonna last but when they won't be sticky anymore, I reckon I can easily cut them off and just use the t-shirt.
Really nice fit and light to wear - great length too.

On the Move Long Bra Top
Truuuue bargain!!! £9 instead of £30
Self-explanatory, I guess - this tank top has got a built-in bra.
I'm not a fan of the V-low cut on the back too but, for that price, I'm not gonna complaint.
I got a L because of my 'puppies' and it's a bit baggie but luckily it's not too long.

EasyTone Tee
£13.50 instead of  £45
 Same technology as the pants with resistance bands; this is my least favourite because it fits pretty tight so I can only wear it on my most confident days. ;)
Still, you get a great item for the price.

So, if you're looking to update your gym equipment I'd recommend to get in there quickly - very pleased with everything I bought!
xx

p.s.: I have worn my clothes few times now and I noticed that the inside labels are starting to peel off after a couple of washes (they're kinda of rubber letters, glued on)... it doesn't bother me but I thought to mention it in here.

FOTD - Afternoon Tea

Face: Ginvera BB Cream, Giorgio Armani Master Corrector in pink, Estee Lauder Double Wear Concealer in 07 Warm Light, Mac Creamblend Blush in Something Special, Mac Mineralize Skinfinish Natural in Medium, Murad Skin Perfecting Primer Dewy Finish;

Eyes: Guerlain Ecrin 4 Couleurs in 04 Les Bois De Rose, Benefit Eye Bright, L'Oreal Volume Million Lashes mascara in extra-black, Soap & Glory Thick & Fast mascara;

Lips: Collection 2000 Cream Puff in 3 Fairy Cake.

Selfridges Beauty Box

I would say the much anticipated box is here... but actually, Selfridges only announced it last week - released yesterday and I received it today!

First of all, very impressed with the delivery service - I know some people haven't received it yet - but as far as I know there was only an option of £4.95 p&p.

 Also, I know it was a limited edition but they should have really made more - may people were left disappointed and annoyed... not a good strategy, in my opinion.

 I got to say, I don't have any other beauty box subscription going at the moment (and haven't regretted so far) but as soon as I saw a preview of this, I WANTED it!

It's such a shame that people are already selling half of the items they received or flogging it entirely and personally, I really don't understand: I spent a few good hours, trying to buying it yesterday and I most definitely wouldn't have bothered just to resell it! It's really disappointing when other people really wanted one but didn't manage to get one.

Anyway, onto the box - Really amazing selection of brands and products and for that price!

I think it's a one-off box and marks Selfridges Beauty Workshop - "a revolutionary space designed to create a unique playground of exclusive services and products with over 100 new niche brands and cult classics."

 There's a booklet in the box, explaining more about The Beauty Workshop and with information about the products; there're, also, special offers and counter invitations but I'm pretty far from a Selfridges so unfortunately, I won't be able to take advantage of these.

Clearly, I can't review the products as I haven't tried them yet (they'll come in due course) but here is what you get:

Philip B Katira Hair Masque

Personally, I don't know this brand but I'm not a haircare expert; whilst, I don't use styling products massively, I do enjoy an hair mask weekly.

Star ingredient is the pure Katira extract which should help filling damage in the cuticles to add smoothness and strengh.

It can be used both as an instant 2 minutes treatment or overnight.

Antipodes Organic Avocado and Rosehip Divine Face Oil

Excited about this product - I've been looking forward to try this brand, for a while!

It boosts Type 1 collagen in skin cells, easing the effects of aging and leaving skin fresh and plumped.

I believe this is a full size bottle and comes with a dropper applicator.

Stila One Step Correct

Apart that it looks beautiful (!!!) -I think it's weird that it's described as a serum when in actual facts it's a primer.

So you would apply it as a primer, before foundation, and the three colours combined, target different concerns: green - redness, lavender - sallow undertones, peach - illuminates.

Again, full size product and looking forward to try this multi-helix technology.

Omorovicza Deep Cleansing Mask

This mask is packed with mineral-rich moor mud from the lake Heviz - effectively purifies and at the same time soothes the skin. It looks like a mud/clay mask which is a staple in my routine but we'll see how I get on with this as I was rather disappointed by the Omorovicza Thermal Cleansing Balm.

Sample size, clearly - still around 6quid in value.

Estelle & Thild Lip Balm

This is the other brand I've never heard about; apparently, they're a swedish company, certified organic and their products are saturated with high-quality ingredients and vitamins.

Absolutely love the packaging and smells of raspberry - delicious! I got the natural, clear version but they do tinted ones, too.

If I don't absolutely hate this balm, I'm looking forward to explore this brand more in the future.

Full size.

Aesop Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Serum

Another brand that I wanted to try for a while.

Glad we got a serum in the box because I'm a total serum junkie and it's the type of facial skincare that I'm always excited to try out. This serum is good to use on all skin types and should leave a matte finish so I suppose, it can be used both in the evenings and mornings.

Good sample size but I just wish the bottle came with a dropper - it's gonna be unpractical to dispense.

BioEffect EGF Serum

Finally, the item that all alone was making this box exciting for me!

I adore BioEffect: I've been using it regularly since I first discovered in a GlossyBox, last year; I love it that much that I've used it (nearly exclusively) in the months previous to my wedding.

I can, honestly, say that I would be happy to use it exclusively but I like trying different products too much. :)

This little sucker is £49 (and worth it).

Did you get this box?

Have you tried any of these products before?

xxx

 

Introducing / Dr. Nick Lowe

Dr Nick Lowe Anti-Age range has been, specifically, formulated to provide effective anti-aging benefits to repair the skin.

Using the full regime, from cleansing to moisturizing, these products will help delay the signs of aging thanks to superior ingredients and extensive research for which Dr Nick Lowe' philosophy is famous for.

 

At the base of the brand, we find the Cranley Complex - a combination of powerful anti-oxidant , especially formulated to reduce skin damage due to sun, pollution and stress.

We have Pomegranate + Raspberry - which delivers superior anti-oxidant activity - Ferulic Acid - to protect against UV damage - Vitamin A, C, D - to maximise skin absorption?

Cooling Menthol Facial Scrub*

 This is a creamy exfoliant enriched with micro beads; the particles are really fine and the polishing action is super-effective!

After only a couple of weeks - my pores are deeply clean and as a result my skin looks brighter and smoother.

The menthol is a welcome addiction: apart from the smell that I love, helps refreshing the skin and irritations. The cooling has, also, a tightening effect.

Super Charged SPF15 Day Cream*

Unfortunately, this cream wasn't the best fit for me; It's a bit too heavy for my skin type, especially now in the summer so I gave it a go as a night cream. It hydrates beautifully and I was left with plumped up skin in the morning... still, I don't like using an spf product at night so I will donate this cream to my mum; she has dry skin and I reckon it will be the perfect match for her.

 Age Correct Eye Serum*

I'm a junkie for eye creams; I would say that my eye area is the most in need of help and I have switched to anti-aging products from a couple of years, now.

I'm always on the hunt for the latest technology that will help me with dark circles and fine lines, too.

At the same time, you need to be very careful not to pile creams on as they can be counterproductive for this delicate area.

This is, kinda, of a 2-in-1 product because it's a serum with concentrated ingredients, but it has the consistency of a cream and it's deeply nourishing.

It's very light and fresh on application and absorbs easily; although I'm just not a big fun of the smell - reminds me of lilies and I have a long-term hate for the flower - this is a re-purchase for me! 

Have you tried Dr. Nick Lowe lines before?

What product could you recommend?

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