LAKME HAUL+REVIEWS

A big shoutout to my mom for getting these for me while overseas, as they aren't stocked in South Africa. 💚

LAKME PRODUCT HAUL

I'll be going through the products that I got as well as first thoughts. Please keep in mind that I will not be doing swatches as I haven't had time to use most of these beauties yet!

So, let's have a look!

First up, I have the Lakme 9to5 Crease-Less Matte Lipstick in Rosy Sunday

Lakmé 9to5 brings you a range of 15 high performance shades that sit on your lips all day long. Enriched with Vitamin E; the formula conditions your lips & softens them with wheat germ oil. 

I got this is the Rosy Sunday shade, a creamy medium/dark coral colour. It came beautifully packaged as well. I wore this today for the first time and it's the definition of long-wear matte! The colour stayed on my lips and because it's so creamy it didn't dry my lips out.

Lakme Absolute Illuminating Foundation

A liquid foundation specially created by the backstage experts at the Lakme Fashion Week to give you visibly brighter looking skin.  Visibly brighter looking skin. Silky dewy finish. Luminous skin with natural glow. Gives your skin an even coverage.

The foundation comes in quite a small bottle. I got it in Beige Glimmer, something suitable for my skin tone. It was hard to choose a shade because 1) I was shopping online, and 2) this range only has four shades. This is a medium flesh tone and contains a shimmer to it, so it can act as a highlighter for the cheek area.

Lakme 9to5 Weightless Matte Mousse Lip and Cheek Colour in Rose Touch

Say ‘No’ to touch ups with this perfect for office wear, Lakme 9 to 5 Weightless Mousse Matte Lip and Cheek Color. Lakme’s first lip and cheek color comes in a mousse texture that’s weightless, giving a powdery matte finish to lips and a soft blush to your cheeks. Lakme 9 to 5 Weightless Mousse Matte Lip and Cheer Color is ideal for daily office wear adding charm and lasting long. Its dual benefit makes it a high functional product for the busy and on the go working woman. It looks and feels weightless because of the lightweight formula. Since it’s a mousse texture, it absorbs well, giving an intense color that long-lasting. The applicator brush glides on seamlessly making it easy to apply and giving a smooth and even finish.

I got this in the shade Rose Touch, a mauve nude shade perfect for Indian/Taupe skintones. It has a super thick powdery texture. Although soft, it was quite dry onto my lips. This definitely does make ones lips look fuller. I enjoy this neutral shade.

Lakme Absolute Sculpt Studio HD Matte Lipstick in Burgundy Affair

I feel like this lipstick is great for shaping with pure precision, but the colour is too weak and has to be applied in hard layers. The lightweight formula would be like wear and forget. These do not move from the lips and hence lip liner is totally optional. I love how smoothly it glides on the lips and gives a velvet matte finish to the lips. The particular shade is a gorgeous shade of red with brownish undertones.

Lakme Absolute Plump&Shine 3D Gloss in Beige Shine

Lakme Absolute Plump & Shine is a revolutionary 3D lip gloss with its long-lasting formula and high pigmentation properties.

This shiny gloss glitters when applied to the lips. It's super thick and sticky, making it able to last long hours. This is great to wear over any lipstick as it's quite transparent as well. I like the fact that this has absolutely no fragrance or taste at all. Also, I did not notice any plumping effect from this gloss. It’s just that as a gloss, on its own gives an illusion of fuller lips. I didn’t feel any tingling sensation too, which lip plumping products usually cause.

Lakme Perfect Radiance Skin Lightening Light Cream

This comes in a small tub which is easy to travel with. It has a light sweet fragrance to it.

On application it was a bit dry as I rubbed it into my face. It's more matte than creamy. It is definitely not meant for dry skinned beauties as it does not moisturize the skin at all. It does brighten the complexion but the effects are temporary. I recommend this to oily-skinned beauties who are simply looking for an instant bright matte finish. If you are looking for any more than that, then I suggest you invest in some good day cream.

Lakme 9to5 CC Cream in Bronze

This cream is available in two shades: Beige and Bronze. This shade, Bronze, looks pretty good on my medium skin tone after setting. Since this is a color transform cream, it looks like any fairness cream when I apply it on my face. Also, it has some microparticles that actually help change the color. I need to blend it perfectly on my face. Initially, this cream gives the effect of any normal cream but then it starts to look like a CC cream. So it actually changes color and gets nicely absorbed by my skin tone. It has a very creamy texture that glides so easily on the skin and provides a smooth dewy finish. The consistency is medium cream which makes it is so easy to blend. 

The cream never looks patchy or dry. It is actually a hydrating cream that makes skin soft. This is really a good for dry skin. Personally, I prefer a matte finish, so I don’t like the creamy finish of this product. Also, on my skin, it looks oily so I need to follow up with a compact powder. 

This cream provides a very sheer coverage that’s good enough for daily use. It cannot really hide any dark spots, pigmentation etc. Also, this cream cannot conceal uneven skin tone either. It only makes your skin brighter and hides just minute imperfections. As I don’t prefer high coverage every day, it looks good on me. But if you desire coverage or intend to hide imperfections, this is not the product for you. It is super blendable but layering makes it heavy and sticky.

Annnnnnd those are my products! I can't wait to use them and hopefully supply swatches soon!

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Stay tuned for more reviews!

Azelo Skincare Review

I recently got sent these Azelo products! I'm super excited to review them, finally. 

Okay, so the first thing I tried was the AZELO Exfoliating Face Scrub.

It has active ingredients such as Rosehip oil and Vitamin C. It's for combination skin.

Upon using this I found it to be light weight and pore-opening. It's not too harsh on the skin and has a pleasant, earthy smell to it. It did not dry out my skin afterwards.

The next thing that I used along with the scrub was the AZELO Pure Tissue Oil.

The oil was non greasy(thank God!) and was soaked up easily by my skin. I used it on my legs and the back of my knee where I have eczema. It soothed the area and acted as an immediate relief. I do wish that the oil effects would last longer, or would be more powerful for dryer skin types. Other than that, I think that is it a great multi-purpose oil.

Thanks for sending me these products, AZELO!

Follow Azelo on Twitter!

Review: SCHICK TrimStyle 2-in-1 Trimmer and Razor

I was super excited to have received the new Schick Hydro Silk TrimStyle.

This is a 2-in-1 razor and bikini area trimmer!

And now that it's summer, the swimsuit season, I made it my priority to test this beauty out!

As said by Schick SA;

At Schick we are bringing bikini maintenance out of the dark, giving you the

confidence to feel sexy and ready for whatever the day might throw your way!

Quattro for Women TrimStyle is the first all-in-one women’s razor and bikini trimmer that

let’s you Shave, Trim and Transform yourself,in the privacy of your own bathroom.

Bringing easy, even trimming and long-lasting smooth skin to you,

in one convenient waterproof beauty tool.

• 4 ultra-thin blades razor enriched with Acai Berry and Jojoba extracts for
• long-lasting leg and under arm smoothness so you can skip a day or two.
• Waterproof battery operated trimmer for a neat, clean look and feel.
• Adjusted rounded comb for various bikini area length settings.
• Rubber grips for comfort and a firm hold in the shower.

My POV

I've honestly never used a trimmer on the bikini area before, it was always a hot wax treatment. So when I got this it took me a bit of time to get used to it. I was surprised as it gave me full control over everything and let me do everything with the right precision. It left my skin feeling smooth. As for the razor, which I used for my legs, it removed hair, no matter long or just growing out, within one glide each time! I was more impressed by the way it left my legs feeling hydrated and extra-smooth afterwards. This is definitely worth every penny and I recommend it to all of my beach babes!

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Once again a big thank you to the Schick team for sending me their newest launch!

Check them out here!

MAC Taupe Lipstick Review

After spending days researching what a good nude lipstick I could get, I stumbled upon MAC's Taupe. So I ended up getting it and here's what I have to say;

This is a great every day lipstick, it's neutral and light. The lipstick has the signature mac vanilla fragrance. It finishes off any natural or nude look. It's creamy and smooth texture made it easy to apply. I wish that the staying power could have been a little better. It didn't dry my lips, but I suggest using a clear lipgloss over this just ensure longevity.

This is a pleasant lipstick to use and by far one of my favourite nudes! 

SWATCH:

MAC Satin Cyber Lipstick Review

This satin finish lipstick is a deep, dark purple colour. It suits all skin tones.

Upon opening it, it has a warm vanilla scent to it. It's super opaque and goes best with a full face of studio makeup. It is too dramatic to wear on its own. I suggest wearing a suitable lipliner underneath this.

It is creamy and smooth but very dry on my lips. Upon applying it, it did not blend at all and it basically made my lips appear dryer than ever. 

I don't recommend this lipstick to anyone as I've read many reviews from bloggers who are experiencing the same problem with Cyber.

SWATCH:

I didn't use flash, only natural sunlight when taking the swatch picture so that you could see the real thing! 

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Stay tuned for more reviews!

#AskKiara Sleeping Problems

"I have a lot of trouble sleeping and I don't even know why." - P. Q

Hi there! 

Having problems with sleep is very much normal, what's keeping you up is very hard to figure out, but it can be from overthinking, not tired enough, too much sleep, overtiredness, or your body can be exhausted but your mind isn't. It can be everything from a-z,  but here are some tips that might help you!

(If not i suggest you ask your parents, or a doctor for some help.)

Make sure your bedroom is quiet, dark, and cool. Noise, light, and heat can interfere with sleep. Try using a sound machine or earplugs to hide outside noise, an open window or fan to keep the room cool, and blackout curtains or a sleep mask to block out light.

Stick to a regular sleep schedule. Support your biological clock by going to bed and getting up at the same time every day, including weekends, even if you’re tired. This will help you get back in a regular sleep rhythm.

Avoid naps. Napping during the day can make it more difficult to sleep at night. If you feel like you have to take a nap, limit it to 30 minutes before 3 p.m.

Avoid stimulating activity and stressful situations before bedtime. This includes vigorous exercise; big discussions or arguments; and TV, computer, or video game use. Instead, focus on quiet, soothing activities, such as reading, knitting, or listening to soft music, while keeping lights low.

Don’t read from a backlit device (such as an iPad). If you use an eReader, opt for one that is not backlit, i.e. one that requires an additional light source.

Limit caffeine, alcohol, and nicotine. Stop drinking caffeinated beverages at least eight hours before bed. Avoid drinking alcohol in the evening; while alcohol can make you feel sleepy, it interferes with the quality of your sleep. Quit smoking or avoid it at night, as nicotine is a stimulant.

Goodnight, and I hope you manage to sleep awesome tonight!

Ina Paarman Vienna Bake Recipe

While looking for a recipe of something that I once enjoyed eating when I was little, I found the closest thing on http://www.paarman.co.za






VIENNA BAKE RECIPE


You will need:

Utensils:

• large mixing bowl
• measuring cup
• scissors
• measuring spoons
• wire whisk or fork
• knife with serrated edge
• grater
• chopping board
• 1 large ovenproof dish or 6-8 smaller ones

Ingredients:

• 
  
• 6 slices white bread crusts on, cut into 3cm cubes
• 1½ cups (375 ml) grated gouda cheese
• 500 g smoked Vienna sausages (frankfurters), sliced into 2 cm pieces
• ½ cup (125 ml) parsley, chopped
• 4 large eggs
• 2½ cups (625 ml) full cream milk
• 2 t (10 ml) Ina Paarman's Green Onion Seasoning
• 200 ml Ina Paarman's Ready to Serve Cheese Sauce

Method:

Oil or butter the inside of a medium/large ovenproof dish or 6-8 individual dishes. Toss cubes of bread, grated cheese, sliced viennas and chopped parsley together in a big mixing bowl. Turn out into the oiled ovenproof dish.

Use the same mixing bowl (no need to wash it). Break the eggs into the bowl, add the milk, Green Onion Seasoning and Cheese Sauce. Whisk together with a wire whisk or a fork until evenly blended. Pour this egg mixture over the bread and Vienna mixture in the oven proof dish. Cover the dish and leave to stand for at least 1 hour, so the bread can soak up the liquid. You can also leave it overnight in the fridge.

Adjust the oven rack to the middle position. Preheat the oven to 180ºC. When the oven is warm [the light on the switch will go off]. Put the dish/s in the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes (depending on size) until golden brown and puffy. Serve with a nice tossed salad. Dress the salad with our Honey Mustard or Herb Dressing.

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Hope you guys will enjoy this as much as I do! Be on the lookout for more recipe posts soon!

Short Notice

Hi guys

Sorry for being so quiet lately. I haven't had any time at all to blog as my schedule is suuuuper hectic right now :( ! 

I have two more exams to write then from Tuesday onward I am finally free!
I have a ton of new reviews, #AskKiara's, and even a few recipes coming up.



Hang in there, lovelies 💜


- Kiara 

Review: Elixir Skincare

Today the courier came guess what it was?

Some samples from Elixir Skincare!

Let's have a look:

Elixir Balancing Toner

Product Description:

Use this gentle toner after cleansing to remove any residue, restore pH balance, stimulate circulation, reduce oiliness and refine open pores.

Spritz face until skin is damp then tissue off excess, or spray toner onto cotton pad and gently wipe facial area. For normal to combination skin.

Size:100ml/ 250ml

INGREDIENTS: Distilled water, rose oil concentrate, vitamin E acetate, Santalum album (sandalwood), Lavandula officinalis (lavender)

A mild, odourless toner that is not harsh on the skin and purifies.

Elixir Balancing Cleanser

Use this light, balancing milk-based cleanser morning and evening to remove pollutants and dirt.

Apply to skin and massage in with fingertips to cleanse. Rinse well with water or remove gently with damp cotton pad. For normal to combination skin.

INGREDIENTS: Vegetable-based carrier lotion and carrier cream, water gel, surfactant, Santalum album (sandalwood), Lavandula officinalis (lavender)

Just like the toner, except this a cleanser and milkier. Lavender scented and gentle, but left my skin a bit dry afterwards.

Elixir Derma Gel Treatment Cream

Soothe, hydrate and purify your skin with this activating and rejuvenating treatment.

Massage liberally onto cleansed and toned skin. To treat dry skin, leave on overnight. For an oily complexion, leave on for 10 minutes and then rinse off with warm water and damp cotton pad; follow with night moisturiser. Suitable for all skin types.

Size: 50ml/125ml

INGREDIENTS: Aloe ferox, vegetable-based carrier cream, water gel, vitamin E oil, Eriocephalus punctulatus (Cape chamomile), Lippia javanica (zinziba)

Moisturised my skin quite a bit, happpy with the quality. Great texture.

Balancing Night Moisturiser

Product Description:

This rich formulation firms and nourishes your complexion while you sleep.

Apply after cleansing and toning face and neck. Gently massage in with fingertips, using upward movements. For normal to thirsty skin.

Size: 50ml/125ml

INGREDIENTS: Vegetable-based carrier cream and thickened carrier cream, sweet almond oil, carrier milk, Aloe ferox, Santalum album (sandalwood), Lavandula officinalis (lavender)

Another lavender scented night cream, it left me feeling confident in nourished skin before bed!

Multi Active Enzyme Exfoliator

Product Description:

Repairs damaged skin, antibacterial. Feeds skin, gently exfoliates and refines pores for a smoother skin.

This exceptional skin treatment exfoliator offers a mild skin peel that gently exfoliates using the lightly stimulating action of bamboo granules, fruit acids and papaya enzymes.  Rich in antioxidants, it repairs stressed and damaged skin. Aloe ferox gel fees the freshly exfoliated skin, offering a smoother, brighter complexion. Perfectly suited to mature or delicate skins, and gentle enough for frequent use. Can be used on all skin types.

Very impressed by this product, it removed dead skin cells on my face, causing me to reappear with more radiant, brighter skin.

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Thanks for allowing me to try out these tender products, Elixir Skincare!

For more info, be sure to check them out in the link below:

http://elixirskincare.com/

What's in my Avène Bag?

Hey guys!

So I got sent this this adorable parcel a while back from Eau Thermale Avène.

So, What's in the bag?

Below I will mention the products and a short POV:

1) Avène Cleanance Expert

- Helps eliminate mild to moderate blemishes, spots, and blackheads.

- Light emulsion that is quickly absorbed and leaves skin feeling hydrated and mattified

My POV

Quite watery. It blended easily into my skin but left my skin feeling quite damp afterwards. It definitely gave it a natural matte finish.

2) Avène Sunscreen SPF 30

- Suitable for oily, acne-prone skin

- Dry touch

-  Paraben-free

- Photostable

- Water resistant

My POV

Being thicker than the Cleanance Expert, I had to spend a bit more time rubbing this into my skin. Much to my dismay, it ended up like other sunscreens tat I have used in the past; leaving my skin oily and shiny. It did not have a matte finish on my skin. It did however, last longer than most SPFs.

3) Avène TriAcneal Expert

- Targets blemishes and marks

- Moisturiser

My POV

This has a peachy colour and scent. I much like the look of the product! It did not a greasy feeling when massaged onto my face and had a dry touch, with my skin itself not feeling dry. This is a great moisturiser especially if you want to get rid of those old acne scars and dark marks!

4) Micellar Lotion

- Cleanses and removes make-up in just one step

- Skin feels cleansed, soft, comfortable

My POV

It burned my skin, but got the job done. Odorless. Was not very powerful against my makeup.

5) Avène Thermal Spring Water

- Direct connection between spring and production plant

- Sterile packaging

- No expiration date

- For irritated skin

My POV

This was the first time I tried a thermal water spray and it was definitely an amazing experience. Odorless and clear, it reminds of a natural spring bath! Although this has so many different uses, I used it to sooth my eczema on the back of my knee. It worked a miracle and didn't burn at all and soothed my skin. This has got to be my favourite Avène product. 

I'd recommend the Thermal Water, TriAcneal EXPERT and the Cleanance Expert to anyone who is looking for a way to safely get a matte look on their skin, without all the harsh makeup!

A huuuuge thank you to Avène for sending me these amazing goodies!

Find out more about them here:

http://www.eau-thermale-avene.co.za/