Monday 27 October 2014

Weekend away at the beach

Kia ora!
I failed in blog planning this week, and then spent the long weekend at the beach without internet. So I'm writing up this quick post via my phone's data and hopefully you all forgive the lack of beauty. Feast on the photos of my weekend away, the food and beach shots, and the beautiful Kiwi countryside from the drive home. I hope you all had a wonderful Labour Weekend too, and will be returning to the usual unboxings on Thursday :)











Until next time ...

Friday 24 October 2014

ibelivyu Cube Sparkling Lemon Sugar Scrub Review

Kia Ora!

I'm a terrible person, and forgot to post on the blog yesterday. I've just finished my first week as a full-time working person (and have been totally shattered all week), but I feel terrible. I was supposed to write about Lust Have It, but I haven't even opened that yet. Instead, here's a review of something I got in a Memebox awhile ago. Enjoy!!

I received this scrub in the Memebox Birthday Box and absolutely love it. I haven't seen much about this brand so thought a review might be in order.

It comes in a glass tube with a cork stopper. I love the packaging, I think it is adorable and also quite classy. It looks rather scientific, which is reassuring that a beauty product won't unduly harm your skin.


There are 7 cubes in total in the tube, and I found that half a cube is enough for one use, which prolongs the use of the product. I have only been using these about once a week, as more frequent exfoliation can be detrimental to the health of your skin. You can exfoliate a couple of times a week (with normal/combination skin), but every day will leave your skin rough and dry.


How to use this scrub: 
First of all take the cube, in the palm of your hand. 
I have found that you should do this before a shower, and you should take off your clothes first! One time I didn't and proceeded to get a sticky mess of lemon exfoliant all over my clothes while attempting to take them off with one hand. Naked = better, in this case. 


Next split the cube in two. This is optional, and depends on your use of the product and the size of your face.

Then crumble the cube in your hand.


It should be all crumbly as this makes it easier to wet, and put on your face.


Run your other hand under the tap, and then drip some water onto the scrub. Less is best to start with, as it is way too easy to make it too wet. Just dribble a few drops at a time until it is the desired consistency.


Mix it around until it is all wet and then apply to your face.


Scrub your face, and then wash it off. I find it easiest to do this in the shower, but you can do it over the sink if you prefer.

The granules are larger in this scrub, but not too big or scratchy. If you feel that your skin is sore when using this, add a bit more water and that should help. I had a few issues until I figured out that adding more water (once it was on my face) made it easier and less painful.

I have found that I get a great result from this scrub. My skin is lovely and soft after use, and it stays that way for a couple of days at least. I've also noticed that my blackheads clear up a little bit immediately afterwards and don't look so horrid.

Hopefully this review was vaguely informative about a lesser well-known product. If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments.

Until next time ...

Saturday 18 October 2014

Memebox Princess Edition #3 Rapunzel

Kia Ora!

I got another Memebox today, and it is a really awesome box. However the products in this box are overshadowed by the bottle that opened during shipping. It was everywhere, and totally soaked through the tissue paper and even the box itself. The pictures below show you how it looked. I was not particularly impressed, but I suppose it was only a matter of time until something like this happened, considering the amount of boxes I get in the post. On the bright side, this box smelt fantastic! And Memebox were great when I contacted them (although they aren't sending me a replacement), and helped me sort it all out. 


The damage isn't pleasant, but none of the products are actually broken, they just needed a bit of a clean up.



L'Cret Hair Colour Keeper Treatment Shampoo 300ml

Even though it's missing half the product, I think this is the most exciting product in the box. I've been getting really sick of my Garnier shampoo (teach me to buy the biggest bottles available), and I am always keen to try new hair products. This one smells really lovely, all citrusy and fresh, and I'm very excited to use it sometime soon.

I just looked at the price (!) and I'm now very excited to try it out. I've never used such an expensive shampoo, and I hope it is salon quality. Even if it becomes the love of my life, I'm not going to be repurchasing this baby, a wee bit too expensive for me!

RRP: $42
Full size.


Boutique Bebe Hair Salon Vita-Clinic Mist 60ml

I am intrigued by the instructions on the card to "spray on your hair as often as possible." So am I supposed to empty the whole bottle in one go? Or should it be a few times a day? I'm rather confused but will experiment with this spray and see whether it has any realistic effects.

RRP: $24
Full size.


Toosowong 10 Hours 25ml

I've seen these syringe type products in other people's boxes before, but haven't tried one out as yet. This is supposed to go on and stay in your hair for 10 hours, so I'll probably do it overnight one night. I really like the packaging, although it does seem a bit excessive for what is essentially a one use product. Although at least you will get most of the product out of the tube this way.

On closer inspection, the tube is cracked on the back, and I'm not sure how this will affect the product. Does it matter if it is exposed to air prior to use? I'll have to send another email to Memebox and see what they say.

RRP: $12
Full size.


Sally's Box Friendly Argan Hair Mask

I actually think I might have died and gone to heaven with this product! As regular readers will know, I'm totally obsessed with face masks of all types, and am a sucker for things to make my hair healthier and nicer. To combine a mask and a hair treatment sounds divine, and I can't wait to use this one.

I've just landed myself a new job (full-time woop woop) so I might do this mask the night before I start. That will make my first day a winner, I'm sure of it!

RRP: $4
Full size.


Elizavecca Collagen Ceramide Coating Protein Treatment 100ml

Ooooh another cute piggy bottle. Thank god this one doesn't include spiders! I'm excited to use this one. It seems to be a cross between a treatment and a conditioner, so I'll probably end up using it as a conditioner with the shampoo from this box.

RRP: $34
Full size.


Pro-You Scalp Nutrition Calming Moisture Fluid 150ml

This one is the only product in here that I'm a bit iffy about. I'm not keen to add extra product to my hair twice daily, and not wash it out. I also don't seem to have major issues with dandruff or anything so it isn't the best match for me personally. However, I will try it out, and if it isn't working for me I'm sure I can find someone better suited to give it to.

RRP: $48
Full size.



The cards (slightly wet and splotchy) for those who want more information about the products.

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Total value of the box: $164! (Holy heck, that is an insane value).

I'm really impressed with this box. I like all of the products in it, and I can't wait to try some of them out. I'm hoping that my hair will look phenomenal after all this love and care I give to it. Expect reviews of some of these products to appear, probably after the next few weeks when the hell period of end-of-year assessments is past. I will try and make the posting schedule 3 times a week then, so I can do some reviews and other exciting things rather than just all box openings.

Discount codes for anyone who wants to give them a go:
October $5 off bloggers coupon: SFDP
20% off orders above $200ZIJR
10% off Shop USA orders above $50: O0OU
And use my links for an extra $5 off if you spend over $100. 

Until next time ... 

Disclaimer: Affiliate links used in this post. If you feel like supporting a Memebox addict, please feel free to use my links. I will appreciate it!

Thursday 16 October 2014

Memebox Special #38 My Mask Box (Masks #5)

Kia Ora!

Another Memebox to add to my growing collection. I've been looking forward to this one since I got the last Masks box, it was amazing! I'm hoping that this one will be just as good, and continue to feed my addiction to face masks.



The box is full, which is always a good sign. I can't wait to dive in and investigate the contents.



Pictures of the all-important card, which guides us through the strange world of Korean beauty.


Elizavecca Green Piggy Collagen Jella Pack 100ml

This is the same cute piggy that appeared on the very weird cleanser I got in the Earth and Sea Cosmetics box a few weeks ago. This one doesn't appear to have spider bits in it, so I might give it a go. The card describes it as having a jello-like texture, and it seems to be all wobbly like jelly in the fridge. Very exciting!

It is a moisturiser (I assume from the information on the card), so doesn't fit perfectly into the the Masks theme, but I'm not complaining. I like trying out new products, and something funky like this is right up my alley.

RRP: $30
Full size.


Milky Dress Aqua Sleeping Pack 50ml

I haven't tried a sleeping pack yet, and have been keen to give it a go. I think it is a cream that you slather on your face before going to bed, and wash off first thing in the morning. I don't know how well this will work for me as I can't sleep on my back. I predict some very messy pillow cases!

The cream itself is nice, smells sweet, and absorbs rapidly into my hand. I'll be sure to report back (probably in an empties posting) about how this sleeping pack goes, and if I notice any effects.

RRP: $23
Full size.


Pro You Pore Control Facial Mask 200g

This bottle is huge! One of the things that I love about Memebox is that they don't go looking for sample size, but usually have a majority of full size items. It would be rare to receive a product this big in a Western subscription box.

This is a mask that specifically works on blackheads, and  other problem areas of the face. It uses witch hazel, aloe vera, green tea, and chamomile extracts which all sound amazing. I've been having problems with blackheads recently, so I'm really happy to have this to play with.

RRP: $53 (wow seriously??!!)
Full size.


PureDerm Wrinkle Reducer Gel Patches

I tried out some eye patches a couple of months ago, and really liked them. I am very happy to get these, especially as it is a full pack. I tend to do new masks or other face things with my SO, and I'm sure he will be ecstatic when I tell him I have more things to try out on his face. I really am looking forward to using these though, as I had great results last time I used some.


Tosowoong Help me Neck Patch

A mask for saggy necks. There really are the most interesting things in Korean beauty. I'm keen to give these a go, and will report  back when I have more to say about these. I can't rip open the packets yet, but will try it sometime soon.

RRP: $30 (full size 10 packs)
Sample size (2 packs): $6


Insobeau Beauty Secret Step Up Bust Mask

You what, mate? These feel like gel patches, and you are supposed to wear them for 8 hours. I think these are a very strange product ... and I can't wait to use them. They are also appearing at the perfect time, when everyone (at least in New Zealand) is concentrating on Breast Cancer awareness and this draws more attention to it. Expect an update on how these went (probably soon).

RRP: $14
Full size.


Pure Smile Mask Sheet 5 Set

This was a very thick packet of masks, and I'm pleased to see that there are going to be a great addition to my sheet mask drawer. There were several different types that were included in the box, and I got the Citron one. I'm ok with this, although I am a little uncertain about applying lemon to my face, as the citric acid is supposed to be very very bad. So I will give one of these a go, and see if there are any negative effects, and go from there.

RRP: $6
Full size.


This wee sample seems to be a bonus in the box. I'm not really sure what it is, so I'm going to have to do some research first. But a wee sample is great as an extra, I'm happy to have something else to play with! I am impressed with the packaging, and how there will only be one small hole to squeeze product out of. That should help eliminate some of the messiness that comes with foil packets.

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Total value of the box: $144.
Wow, that's a great value for the box. I paid $23 I think so I'm really happy with that. This box arrived after the not so great September subscription boxes, and has made me really happy to have gotten it. 

I really like all of the products in here, and will actually use each one. Some are a bit strange, but that won't stop me. I also think it is a well curated box, and has a variety of different mask related products. Great work Memebox! Keep it up!

They do keep tempting me with new boxes. I'm currently debating whether I can afford the new Masks box, or the While You Were Sleeping Box. What do you guys think? 

I do have some blogger codes to save you some money this month. They are:
October $5 off bloggers coupon: SFDP
20% off orders above $200ZIJR
10% off Shop USA orders above $50: O0OU

Disclaimer: Affiliate links used in this post. If you feel like supporting a Memebox addict, please feel free to use my links. I will appreciate it!


Tuesday 14 October 2014

Memebox Superbox #40 Pomegranate

Kia Ora!

It's time for the next edition of Louisa's Memebox Addiction! What will we receive this time??


The card with all the details are down below. I'm looking forward to some great smelling products in this box!




Etude House Scrub Massage Cream 14ml

This is a little double sample of this product. I love using scrubs once or twice a week, so I'm excited to use this. I have been loving the Etude House products I've received before, so I'm hoping this will do good things for my skin.

RRP: $1


Etude House Every Month Cleansing Foam February Pomegranate & Berry 100ml

This cleanser is specifically for February? Hmmm, interesting. I'm really interested to try this out though, as I love pomegranate and berry flavoured/scented products. I have a list of cleansers to use before this one, so I won't be using it for quite a while. I do really like cream cleansers though, so this one is going to (hopefully) be lovely to use.

RRP: $4


Chamos Acaci Pomegranate Anti-Wrinkle Cream 60g

This says anti-wrinkle, but I'm probably going to use it as a night cream. It sinks in very quickly, so it seems to be the perfect light cream for a summer routine. I love the slight pink colour, and the very slight wibbly-wobbly factor that it has. I can't wait to finish my current night cream and add this into my routine!

RRP: $30


The Face Shop Pomegranate and Collagen Volume Lifting Essence 80ml

This essence is lovely and light, and is cream based. It sinks into the skin really quickly (like all other Korean essences that I've tried), and has a really nice scent. I also think that the packaging is adorable, and can't wait to have it sitting in my bathroom. I don't know that the application of collagen on the skin will do very much, but I"m happy to have more delicious things to add to my routine.

RRP: $ 24


Innisfree Capsule Recipe Pack Pomegranate 10ml

I've never tried a sleeping pack before, and a little sample one like this seems like a good way to try it out. According to other blogs I've read, a sleeping pack is good for extra moisturisation over night. I don't have overly dry skin, so I might stockpile this for the heights of summer when my skin is a little drier, and it needs a boost.

RRP: $2

The Face Shop Lovely Mix Mango Seed Lip Care - Pomegranate 3.8g

A lip balm is always a handy thing to have around. This one seems to have a nice formula, smooth and moisturising, and with a hint of colour. It is red, and makes my lips look quite nice, and I love the smell. Mmmmmm.

RRP: $7

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Total value of the box: $68.

I ordered this box when it was restocked, and I'm pretty happy that I did. I love that there are a variety of products to try out here, and they all smell pretty darn good. The only awful thing about getting so many nice products is that I have to wait so long to be able to incorporate each one into my routine. It's good practice to wait 2 weeks between introducing each new product, so that any negative effects on your skin can be noticed and reversed. So I'll be waiting awhile to introduce some of these, but I'm really excited to eventually get there. Damn my Memebox addiction for giving me so many lovely new products to try out!

The next box I'm excited about is the Apple Mojito box, which is cheaper than some of their boxes at $19 + shipping. I also have some codes that can help out with the expense. Go forth and use them! 

October $5 off bloggers coupon: SFDP
20% off orders above $200: ZIJR
10% off Shop USA orders above $50: O0OU

Until next time ...

Disclaimer: Affiliate links used in this post. If you feel like supporting a Memebox addict, please feel free to use my links. I will appreciate it!


Thursday 9 October 2014

Memebox Special #34 - Whole Grain 2

Kia Ora!

A new Memebox arrived! Woohoo! I've been waiting at the door for the last three days, as this box marks the start of Memepocalypse. I have something like 18 boxes coming over the next 6 weeks. It's going to be so awesome!

Memeboxes are themed boxes full of Korean beauty products. There are Memeboxes, Superboxes and plenty of variation. I tend towards the skincare boxes, but there are lots of makeup ones available too. Check out my unbxoings in the tab above, and feel free to use my discount codes (kept updated in that tab).

This box is described as: Whole grains are gentle enough for even the most sensitive types of skin, yet powerful enough to buff away dead skin cells and encourage surface cell turnover! Whole grains will leave skin feeling silky soft, smooth and glowing. Rich in vitamins A and E, whole grains are full of antioxidants that promote cell respiration and also stimulate the production of anti-inflammatory compounds, slowing down the aging process. 

I ordered this box because the first one looked great in reviews, and I wanted one for myself. 


There is a really subtle and sweet scent wafting from this box. I'm guessing there is a soap or something similar in here? Either way, let's check out the contents!!


Card details for those who want the more in-depth details.



Young Face Nuruk Natural Mask and Scrub 50g

This looks like way more work than my usual masks. It's quite different, but that is sometimes what I'm looking for in a Memebox. The card says to add a spoonful of this powder to water, milk, honey, or plain yogurt. At least it's versatile!

I don't know if I'll use this, simply because of the extra effort. But summer is coming up, and on long hot summer days this might be a nice cooling mask to create. Or I might invite some girly friends over and have a mask party. Either way, I'm happy to have this and an opportunity to experience something a bit different.

RRP: $5
Full size.


Tosowoong Timeshift Emulsion 120ml

Yussss! I've been wanting an emulsion to add to my nighttime routine. This bottle is massive, and made of glass so feels a bit fancy. The pump is great as you can control exactly how much you want, and there isn't any wastage.

This is a white gel, and it has snails in it! Snails are my newest love inskincare, and I'm so happy to have another product that uses them. My Benton Snail Bee Essence has evened out my skintone so much, and I'm delighted to add another snail based product to the routine.

RRP: $34
Full size.


Seven DIAS Medi Anti-Blemish Serum 40ml

This has come at the perfect time, as I have a massive volcano currently erupting from my chin, and a ton of little blackheads. This product has a list of whole grains including soybean, mung  bean, brown rice, and barley, as well as a bunch of other natural ingredients. Well, according to the information on the card anyway, and I'm deciding to trust that information, at least for now.

This bottle also has a pump. I felt like a kid playing Don't Wake Daddy when first trying to get the serum out! It finally came out and is a clear, sweet smelling serum and it absorbs quickly. I think I'm going to enjoy trying this one out.

RRP: $29
Full size.


Echoice Wash Oatmeal Body Scrub 110g

This oatmeal and walnut scrub looks great, and I can't wait to try it out! I love having a face scrub in the shower, and now the rest of my body doesn't need to miss out. This is a clear gel with little scrubby particles in it. It smells ok, but nothing to write home about. I'm sure this will appear in an empties sometime soon, so keep an eye out if you are interested.

RRP: $5
Full size.


Young Face Natural Soap 100g

Aha, the source of the boxes smell. This is rather sweet, but not overly so. I don't really know how to describe it. The closest I can do is the smell of brown sugar on porridge. This soap is made from mung beans! I think it is for your face rather than your body but the card doesn't make this clear. All it says is to use a "bubble net because handmade soaps tend to soften faster." I don't know what a bubble net is, but I'm going to use this as a normal body soap and see how it goes.

RRP: $12
Full size.


Osho Whitening Cream 50ml

I'm not as scared of whitening products as I used to be so I'm really happy to have this one. I've been looking for a new night cream, and this one looks really nourishing and moisturising. I tested it on the back of my hand, and it did take awhile to massage in, but now the skin feels really soft and has very little residue.

The packaging reminds me of Tonymoly products (not that I've tried any). I quite like it. It has a very sweet smell, just like the Super Plumping Jelly in my Skincare box. I'm excited to incorporate this.

RRP: $34
Full size.

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Total value of the box: $119

This box had a good mix of products in it. I really like all of them, and can't wait to get started with using them. The only bad thing about being obsessed with skincare is the length of time it takes to incorporate a new product into my routine without making my skin go crazy. It's worth it though, because after starting to use Korean products my skin looks the best it ever has!

I love getting Memeboxes as I tend to like and want to use every single product in them. I think it is great value for money, and highly recommend it! If anyone wants to help fund my newest addiction then please feel free to use my affiliate links. I'm debating at the moment between two boxes, and  can't decide which one to get. They are the Blackheads No More and the Skincare Elixir boxes. Both look great!! 

Has anyone else received this box? What do you think of the products in it?

Until next time ...