little white truths

Acure claims/product details:

• This scrub is formulated to effectively lift and buff away dead skin cells and built-up dirt and grime
• Nourishes, hydrates and brightens all types of skin
• With gentle, lightly abrasive walnut shell flour, french green clay and lemon peel granules
• This skin-reviving formula also contains active ingredients such as detoxifying sea kelp powder and antioxidant-rich acai and pomegranate fruit extracts, which all work together with madonna lily culture extract to smooth, soften and revitalise your complexion
• Especially beneficial for those with pigmentation, blackheads, dark spots or large pores, this scrub has featured as a winner in the Allure.com Best of Beauty Awards in both 2015 & 2016
• Made in the USA, GMO free, vegan, gluten free, certified cruelty free
• Packaged using soy-based inks and a minimum of 70% recycled material
• RRP $16.95 AUD for 118ml

Hello and welcome to my Project Pan full update for July. Do note that I managed to forget to photograph one of my products this month, being my Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask. Oops! Hoh well. These things happen.

Here's what's left on my list:

• Tarte Timeless Smoothing Primer 
• Marc Jacobs Dew Drops Coconut Gel Highlighter in Fantasy 
• Hourglass Illusion Hyaluronic Skin Tint SPF 15 in Warm Ivory 
• Coty Airspun Loose Face Powder in Honey Beige 
• Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush in Dim Light 
• NYX Butter Gloss in Meringue 
• Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Let's Go Crazy 
• Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask 
• Hask Monoi Coconut Nourishing Shine Oil 
• Evo the Great Hydrator Moisture Mask 
• BareMinerals Gen Nude Patent Lip Lacquer in Everything 
• Australis MatchMaker Shade Adjusting Drops, Lightening

First up, my Hourglass tinted moisturiser. I'm still enjoying this product and I'm still mixing it with the highlighter on this list and also another foundation, and I'm using the mix four or five days a week. It's slow going but that doesn't matter because I love it.

Next up, my Coty powder foundation. I haven't marked this again because it looks like I haven't used any, although I've had this issue with loose powders before: that is, you don't make any visible progress for one month, but after two months, you see a big dip. I guess that's just about the powder appearing to have a higher volume as more air gets between the particles. Who knows. There's another month or two in this, I reckon.

My Tarte primer, as it was last month:

 And now:

So you can see that I'm getting somewhere with this, and I hope to have it finished within four months. We'll see. I really enjoy it but it's been open for too long, so I'm looking forward to finishing it while it's still performing well.

Next, my Hourglass blush, as it was last month:

And here's how it's looking now:

I thought I'd try photographing it from a different angle so that you can see it's getting rather flat. Yes there's ages to go, but at least we can see that I'm getting somewhere slowly. I suspect I'll still be panning this at the end of next year, but you never know! Day at a time I guess.

Next, my Nars lip crayon and NYX gloss, which I'm mixing most days now that I finished the other NYX gloss that was on my list.

Do note that I haven't made enough progress on these to bother marking the lip gloss tube or the crayon as it was before, but I'm hoping to kick out the crayon this month (and I don't know whether I'll bother scraping the insides out: we'll see).

I suspect this gloss will be on my list for months - it's too dark and cool-toned for me on its own, so I need to keep mixing it with other things in order to use it. Still, I have things to keep mixing it with so that's the main thing. 

Last up, my Hask hair oil and Marc Jacobs liquid illuminator. Silly me, I barely used the oil this month so I haven't bothered marking it again. From memory what happened is that I had to submit a review for haircare and therefore didn't use the oil until that review was done, and by then I'd forgotten about this oil. I'll do better this month.

The highlighter is slow going because I can't use too much of it in my foundation mix (otherwise it turns the undertone too pink for my yellow-based skin), but I'm getting through it and know I can pan it by the end of the year. It may take the rest of the year, though. We'll see.

As for my replacements:

I've picked two items, one being a dry shampoo that was on my list previously but that I completely forgot about (I seem to be forgetting a lot these days: it's because I have so much work on!).

The second is an exfoliant that I need to review, so putting it on my list will help make me use it more often and encourage me to do that (this tube is my second: I've already finished the first one).

Above is my Batiste Dry Shampoo in Divine Dark. I don't hate this product but I much prefer Batiste's regular line of dry shampoos, so I'm including this to make myself finish it.

Fingers crossed that I won't forget about it this time haha. I reckon I can pan it within a month because I need to use quite a bit each time. 

Above is my Acure Brilliantly Brightening Facial Scrub. I enjoy this product and I'm looking forward to using it more often. I should be able to pan it within a month, although it's pretty concentrated so it may last longer than that. We'll see.

In sum

That's all from me! I'm glad I managed to get this post up on time: I've had some issues with Project Pan updates this year because I've had more work on than usual, so it's hard to stay on top of blogging.

Do let me know in the comments how your own panning projects are going: I'd love to hear.

Hope all's well with you, and speak soon x

Hello and welcome to another Project Pan mini update for the year.

Do note that my full update is due in the next couple of days, but I wanted to sneak this empty out first so I have one less product to photograph when I write my update post.

Above you'll see my NYX Butter Gloss in Meringue. I was able to get through it quickly because I used it every day but also put half the remaining product into the tube of another NYX gloss that I'm panning. I did this because I'm mixing them every day anyway, so it made sense for me to shift this product into the other tube once I took the stopper out.

There it is again:

It's definitely empty!

I'm glad that I've managed to move another product out of my collection, and while yes some of it I'm still using because I put it into the second tube, that's given me one less step to deal with every day when I do my makeup and that makes me happy: for a while there I was mixing three lip products several times each day, and that starts to get very annoying, very quickly.

That's all from me. Hope all's well with you, and speak soon x

Hello and welcome to my next update post for Project Dent.

I've now been denting this palette for two weeks and I've just introduced my next item, so I'm ready to show you my progress on this product.

While I do enjoy this palette, it's my least favourite of the three Hourglass edits I own so it's the one I'm most likely to pan next. If you're interested, I've reviewed it here. 

Essentially it's up to Hourglass' usual standards, and if you like Hourglass products, then I suspect you'll like this. The formula is great, it's just that the blush colours aren't my favourites so I prefer my other palettes.

Here's how my palette looked two weeks ago, when I introduced it to Project Dent:

And here's how it's looking today:

Below I've enhanced the above two shots for clarity.

Two weeks ago:

Hello and welcome to another round of Project Dent.

While I still need to update my last round, there wasn't any sun yesterday so I wasn't able to take progress shots - meaning I'll need to do that today - so stay tuned for that update post if you're interested. In the meantime, I can introduce my next product.

I last dented this at the beginning of the year, and since I've started cycling through my face palettes again, I thought I would do this one next.

I enjoy all the products in here but I don't reach for them that often because Becca highlighters and blushes aren't my favourites (they're very good: it's just that they're not Hourglass or Marc Jacobs) so I need to remind myself to use them. Yay for Project Dent.

Here's how my palette is looking today, 29 July 2019:

Below I've enhanced the above shot for clarity:

You can see that I've used this palette but we're not seeing much progress on any of the powders. That's ok for the moment, but I would like to start thinking about finishing one or two of these shades (perhaps the ones I like the least) so I can then move more powders in.

What I'll do over the denting period is use all of these as much as possible and work out which one/s I can do without, so I can consider panning at least one of them next year. I'll also aim to get some visible progress happening in some of the shades so I feel like I've achieved something over the next two weeks.

That's all from me. Hope all's well with you, and speak soon x

I want to kick-off this review by saying that I haven't tried a lot of makeup sponges because I prefer using my fingers for foundation, so I'm not an expert on these things and that needs to be noted.

However I received one as a GWP at the beginning of the year, and I found that I liked having one on-hand for use after I've applied my foundation and concealer, because I find that a quick run-over with one of these ensures that my blending is finished faster, and also helps lift off a little product if I've applied too much foundation and want less coverage (I prefer a natural look).

So after my last sponge died, I went into Priceline and chose this one for the simple reason that it was the cheapest one available in the shape I wanted - and makeup sponges are more expensive than you might think, so the price mattered.

What I've found, though, is that this is nothing like I expected. It's hard, it doesn't soften when you add water, and it doesn't clean as well as the other sponge I used. I also don't enjoy using it because it's on the hard side and I don't think it's as effective at blending things out. More on that below.

Manicare claims/product details:

• A precision blending sponge designed for easy application of foundation, concealer, blush and bronzer
• This non-allergenic and antibacterial sponge features a 3D shape, ensuring a mess-free and streak-free application
• Inspired by makeup professionals for the application of foundation, concealer and blush
• One sponge creates the complete foundation look: the pointed end is perfect for intricate spots and angles; the rounded end covers large areas of the face
• This advanced contoured tool has extra fine suede textures, achieving the ultra-light finish without streaks
• RRP $11.49 AUD

Verdict

I don't like this sponge at all, and I'm going to get myself a new one asap because I can't deal with this one for much longer.

It's a purple sponge with that pear/hourglass shape that many sponges have these days, and I chose it not only because it was cheaper than the other available sponges, but also because I like this particular shape: you can use it for different things and the tip gets into corners well.

Unfortunately, though, that's where the good stuff ends. This is quite a hard sponge so it doesn't feel as nice on the skin and I don't think it's as effective as its softer counterparts for that reason. It just doesn't blend out my makeup as well, so I need to work harder at things (which takes longer) and that's not what I want.

It also doesn't take in water and expand like other sponges do, so don't expect it to do that because you'll be disappointed. I think this also contributes to the fact that it's too hard in texture and doesn't work as effectively, so I'll be sure to look for an expanding sponge next time.

On top of that, because it doesn't take in water and expand, it's also harder to clean. I've washed mine a good few times but I really can't get the makeup out of it properly - and this means it's likely a breeding ground for god knows what, so in terms of longevity, it falls down there too.

Overall I don't like this sponge and I don't recommend it. It's too hard so it doesn't work as well as other sponges, I don't like the feel of it on my skin, and it's hard to wash too. For these reasons, I've given it a 'disappointing products' tag.

Not for me.

I really need to start getting back into writing review posts again because I have quite a few products that are getting close to being finished and need to be reviewed before they're gone. This oil is one of them.

I've been using it for months and I enjoy it, and it's definitely one of the better Trilogy products I've tried. As you may know, I haven't had a lot of luck with Trilogy in the past - but this oil is decent and I would absolutely use it again. More on that below.

Trilogy claims/product details:

• Combines nature’s most powerful skin-restoring and protecting properties in a unique and advanced formulation (Rosapene™)
• This carefully selected seed oil blend works synergistically, delivering intensive nourishment to replenish softness and elasticity, as well as offering daily antioxidant protection for healthier, younger-looking skin
• Potent super antioxidants lycopene from tomato and phytosterol from acai help protect from premature ageing caused by environmental free radical damage
• Nourishing essential fatty acids (omegas 3 and 6) from cranberry and rosehip moisturise and renew
• Mineral and vitamin-rich oat extract provides a soothing and luxurious feel that glides on the skin
• Helps to repair yesterday’s damage and protect from tomorrow’s
• New independent clinical studies show Trilogy Rosehip Oil Antioxidant+ really works to improve skintone and brightness, wrinkles and elasticity
• Certified organic and 100% natural
• RRP $35.95 AUD for 30ml, but do shop around

Verdict 

Hello and welcome to another samples update post.

I introduced these months ago and I've been meaning to update this post with mini reviews for a while, it's just that I've had so much on that things have fallen off the rails a bit where blogging's concerned. Still, we're here now so that's the main thing.

Let's get straight into it, and after that I need to introduce my next round of larger samples - another thing I've been meaning to do for a while!

Olay Regenerist Luminous Tone Perfecting Cream

Full review here. I don't like this cream at all and I'm glad I've finished it. Unsurprisingly I'm not the only one who isn't a fan, and the reviews on eg beautyheaven's website are lukewarm at best.

It contains artificial fragrance (and a good dose of it), and although it feels smooth and creamy in texture, from the moment I first used it, I could feel how chalky and powdery it felt when applied - so I wasn't surprised to see that the formula is heavy on silicones. What this means (at least in my case) is that the damn stuff won't absorb properly, so it leaves my face feeling tight and parched after use. It also has a tendency to ball up when you layer it over a serum or try to put something more hydrating over the top. Blurgh.

Madara AHA Brightening Peel Mask

Full review here. This is a good product, and while it's not the most effective peel I've used, I like that it's gentle enough that I can use it a few times a week if I want to without upsetting my skin.

When applied, this has a tingling effect that tells me it's working. It's not an uncomfortable feeling - it just feels as though it's eating away at dead skin (lovely ; )). After use my skin looks brighter and feels smoother, plus it feels firmer and gently resurfaced. It's the kind of product that does its job without causing any discomfort or irritation - or at least it hasn't for me.

Nevertheless, I still prefer Skinstitut's Enzymatic Micro Peel (reviewed here), which is a very similar product - it's just a bit cheaper (and often available on special), and I think the Skinstitut is more hydrating than this one, so it suits my dry skin better while still delivering the same results

Madara Micellar Water

I didn't hate this product but I didn't love it either. Sure it's gentle, but it's not super effective and I wouldn't buy it for myself. Worth noting is that it's had mixed reviews online (some love it while others agree that it's not very effective), so I'm not the only one who didn't get on well with it. I've reviewed it here.

From the moment I used it, I could tell that it wasn't a 'heavy duty' product. Some micellars really cut through grease while others don't do the job so well, and this falls in the latter category. It doesn't do a good job of makeup removal (whether waterproof eye makeup or otherwise), so I need to get the rest of my makeup off with something else. Not for me.

Weleda Sea Buckthorn Hand Cream

Full review here. I didn't like this product at all. First, it's not hydrating enough for my dry skin so it doesn't ease the tightness in my hands or leave my skin feeling soft or comfortable. 

Second, it's unbelievably sticky (it's the stickiest product I've ever used) so I can't apply it during the day because I need to wash it off my palms if I want to use them - which I always do of course because, you know, hands get do used somewhat ; ) 

Third, it sits on top of the skin rather than sinking in delivering nourishment where I need it most. It's more of a barrier cream that I can only use overnight to seal in other products, which I don't need to do - so essentially it's performing no function for me personally and I'm glad it's finished. Disappointing. 

Acure Brilliantly Brightening Facial Scrub

I received a couple of these scrubs as GWPs and I'd meant to review this one but finished it before I could, so I'll have to review it before I finish my second tube. In short, it's a good product and I enjoy using it.

It claims to lift and buff away dead skin cells and built-up dirt and grime, while nourishing, hydrating and brightening the skin. I reckon it does those things, and while it does contain scrubby matter, it doesn't feel too scratchy on the skin and I don't find it to be too harsh. It also contains heaps of scrubby matter, so a little goes a long way and even this 30ml sample lasted me ages. I definitely enjoy it, and I'm looking forward to reviewing my second tube. 

Pai Comfrey & Calendula Calming Body Cream

This is described as a rich, non-greasy body cream that's especially formulated for skin that's mature, dry, irritated or inflamed. It's designed to deeply nourish, hydrate and comfort aggravated skin while still allowing skin to breathe.

Unfortunately I didn't like this at all. I found that it didn't absorb well, and it almost had a slightly chalky texture that I didn't enjoy. It also left my skin feeling dry after use, and I needed to use a lot per application because it didn't spread well, so I don't think the full size would be good value on a price-per-use basis. Not for me.

Pai Echium & Argan Gentle Eye Cream

Full review here. This is a good, simple eye cream that hydrates my dry eye area without weighing it down. It's lightweight and absorbs well, and while my eyes didn't look too bad while I used this, it's only just hydrating enough for my dry skin and something richer would smooth out my eye area more effectively.

It also doesn't do anything for my fine lines or wrinkles, nor does it brighten my eye area or plump my skin to make it appear more youthful. It's a one-trick pony kind of product (or at least it is in my experience), so that's something to keep in mind - especially when you consider the price-tag. It may suit those with younger eyes than mine (or those who don't have dry skin), but it doesn't do enough for me personally.

Hello and welcome to another empties post for the month!

It's been a month of panning and empties posts for me and I haven't done that many review posts, purely because I've had more work on than usual and the kids have also been a little tougher (it's winter so it's not as easy to get them out of the house and burn off energy).

Anyhoo. Empties. Let's have a look.

NYX Butter Glosses in Sugar Plum and Strawberry Parfait

I've been through quite a few of these glosses now and I absolutely love them so you'll probably be seeing them show up in my empties posts forevermore. I've reviewed Sugar Plum here and Strawberry Parfait here.

What I love about these is that they hydrate my lips better than most other lip products I've tried, and they also have a plumping effect so they smooth out the look of texture. On top of that, they wear pretty well for glosses and they come in a variety of shades so there should be something for everyone, plus they're cheap and that's always a bonus. 

Sugar Plum was a little too cool-toned for me so it made me look rather dead, but it mixed beautifully with Strawberry Parfait (which warmed it up so it suited me) and I do love a lavender/purple lip, so I enjoyed these while I had them. Repurchase? Yes.

L'Occitane Shea Butter Hand Cream

Full review here. It was so nice to return to this hand cream because for some reason the last few years haven't been great in terms of trying new ones (I've tried a lot of duds unfortunately), but this one is great and I really enjoy the formula.

Apparently one of these L'Occitane creams is sold every three seconds, and I do see why it's so popular: it works, it isn't that expensive, and it doesn't leave a horrendous residue on the hands. My dry skin has been happier ever since I reintroduced this product, so I might have to buy myself another one soon. Purchase? Yes.

Hourglass Ambient Strobe Lighting Powder in Euphoric Strobe Light

I recently panned this via Project Pan because, even though I enjoy the formula and colour, I prefer Brilliant Strobe Light so I always reach for that over this one and there was no point in keeping it in my collection. I've reviewed it here.

I've always loved how soft and subtle these highlighters are on the skin, as well as how smooth and silky they are to the touch. The only problem with the formula is that it contains tiny flecks of noticeable glitter, and while I normally wouldn't wear anything with glitter in it (except on the eyes), I live with it in these because they otherwise look so natural and they don't emphasise texture. Without the glitter, they'd be perfect. Repurchase? No.

Thursday Plantation Brightening Oil

Full review here. This is the second oil I've tried from Thursday Plantation and I haven't been very impressed by either of them.

It leaves behind a greasy finish so it mightn't suit those who prefer oils that vanish into the skin. I've been applying mine as my overnight hydrator because it's too greasy to wear under makeup during the day, and also because the coating it leaves on my skin makes it a good oil to seal in my other products and keep my skin protected until morning. That's about all it does, though - at least in my case - and what I've found is that it doesn't absorb into the skin well. Instead it sits on top of my face and doesn't feel like it's getting in there and nourishing my dry skin where I need it most. Repurchase? No.

A'kin Natural Deodorant 

This is a great natural deodorant and it's the first one I've found that works beautifully for me. Over the last year or so, I started to realise that normal deodorants just weren't working for me anymore. They were leaving me with seriously itchy skin - to the point that I was often in discomfort overnight - and my skin also started flaking off under my arms, which it had never done before. Eek.

Thankfully this product works for me and I love it: it stops me from getting stinky under the arms and I only need to apply it once every 24 hours. Plus it doesn't irritate my skin and it's not super expensive, so it's a winner in my books. I've reviewed it here. Purchase? Already have.

In sum

That's all from me! I'm pleased to have cleared out another empties post for the month, and I'm hoping to get a third one done before month's end. We'll see.

My favourite items in here were the A'kin deodorant, the NYX glosses (as always), the Jurlique eye cream and the L'Occitane hand cream. Everything else I can take or leave.

That's all from me. Hope all's well with you, and speak soon x