Empties and What I'm Throwing Out: March - April, 2013

Although it hasn't been that long since my last Empties and What I'm Throwing Out post (click here to read about the products I finished from November, 2012, to March, 2013) I'm here with one that features even more products! To be honest, I think a few of these were finished quite a while ago but I forgot to feature them in the last post.

With that being said, there is a lot of stuff to be featured in this post so I won't be commenting on each and every product. Ain't nobody got time for that!

Either way, let's get into what I finished! 

Mask In A Cup Facial Mask for Sensitive Skin Review

When I received the Mask In a Cup Facial Mask for Sensitive Skin in my October Lust Have It! box I was pretty disinterested in the product. I only tended to use products for combination/oily skin so I just put it at the back of my cupboard (but really it went in one of my million drawers dedicated to all things beauty), never to be seen or thought about again.

Recently, my skin flipped out (click here to read all about it and see photos) and, after getting it somewhat back on track, it started to become quite dry, especially on my cheeks. I assume this was a result of the insane amounts of salicylic acid based spot treatments I was lathering onto my skin but, in any case, I wanted it sorted.

I tried coating my skin in my lightweight moisturiser. That didn't work. I tried using my favourite LUSH Fresh Face Mask. That didn't work. Then, for some reason I remembered that I had the Mask In a Cup Facial Mask for Sensitive Skin sitting in my blog room. With nothing to lose, I mixed the product up, applied it to my face and waited to see what would happen. To my surprise, the dryness was all completely gone and my face felt like a face again!

For more information about the mask, including application and a few tips, keep reading!

..So I Couldn't Resist : Priceline 40% OFF Cosmetics Haul

On Tuesday I uploaded a post about the super exciting sale Priceline was having on the 23rd and 24th of this month, April 2013. Unfortunately this sale is over now but, for two days only, they were offering 40% off all cosmetics. Of course I took advantage of the sale (I mean, I had to) and now I'm here to show you what I picked up.

I didn't go overboard and, given how many products I'd love to try at the moment, I think I was quite restrained! I also picked up a few essential items that weren't on sale but as I said, they were essentials, and, well, when in Rome..

To see what I bought, keep reading!

The Best Nail Polish Strips Ever | OMG Nail Strips Review and Nail Tutorial

I really like nail strips, stickers, foils and whatever other form they come in. I like the fact that the designs are always super cute, somewhat longwearing and so convenient. What I don't like, however, is the fact that they're so difficult to apply. I had basically given up on such products, purely because it's impossible for me to apply them without some sort of bubble, bump or lump. Let's be honest, ain't nobody got time for that.

I was recently sent some nail polish strips from OMG Nail Strips and, I'm going to be honest, they're amazing! They apply so well and, for once, there was no imperfections. I actually couldn't believe it! 

To see how I apply these, keep on reading!

What You'll Need:
- Nail Polish Remover
- Nail File: I'm using the Sally Hansen No More Ridges)
- Nail Scissors
- Base Coat: I'm using Sally Hansen Miracle Cure
- Top Coat: I'm using Sally Hansen Diamond Flash Fast Dry Top Coat
- OPI Onyx Black
- OMG Nail Strips Black Floral Pattern

40% OFF PRICELINE COSMETICS for Two Days Only

I had another post planned for today but, when I heard about an upcoming Priceline sale, I realised this had to take priority! For two days, April 23 and 24, Priceline will be having a flash sale, offering 40% OFF all cosmetics. I kid you not, 40%!

This sale includes in store and online purchases and, of course, is while stocks last. Enjoy!

Will you be taking advantage of this promotion? Let me know below!

Always look your best,

Sophie

x

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With my last $10.00 I would buy.. | Part Two

Almost two weeks ago I uploaded a post called 'With My Last $10.00 I would buy.. | Part One'. This post was based on a series created by a blogging friend, Sarah from More Than Adored.  Basically it's a list of super affordable products that I would recommend you pick up, even if you're super broke and need to limit your weekly retail therapy to only $10.00.

I've finally found a job (check out my insane 'When I Get a Job' shopping list here) but, before that, I was on a super tight budget and would find a bargain whenever and wherever I could. 

I really enjoyed my first post so I decided to write a second, featuring more products that I'd recommend to anyone who was done to their last $10.00 before payday.

At the time of writing this post the Priceline website's shop online option was down so I couldn't add prices to the post but, as soon as I find that it's working again, I'll include the prices of the products in this post. 

SauceBox Temptation Palette Review, Swatches and Eye Look

If you've been reading my blog for a while you'll know that I'm very fond of neutral make up looks. Not always neutral, necessarily, but I definitely venture away from coloured shadows. I'm going to be honest, coloured eyeshadows scare the hell outta me. With all that in mind, I'm sure you can understand how petrified (plus incredibly grateful, of course) I was to see that Michelle, the lovely owner of Lipstick Republic, had included this in my last order to review for all you!

After my mini freakout and initial apprehension, I decided to give this palette a try and, of course, I was pleasantly surprised.

Now that you've seen the packaging etc, let's get into the actual product! 

When I Get a Job: The shopping list to beat all shopping lists

I've been unemployed for the past few minutes so, as I'm sure you can imagine, money has been quite tight. Don't get me wrong, I've enjoyed the odd shopping trip or two but they've been on very tight budgets. As I mentioned on Tuesday, I've compiled the longest list of products that I'd love to pick up when I get a job and, now that I finally have one, it's time to start picking them up.

In my last post (to read about my new job, click here) I asked if you guys wanted to see this shopping list. The answer was a somewhat overwhelming yes so here goes!

This stuff will not be bought in one day, week or month, It's just a list of products that I'd really love to buy and, now that I'll finally have some money, I hope to start ticking them off the super huge list. It's also likely that I won't end up buying everything on the list. Surely you know what it's like.

Anyway, let's get into it!

Lipstick Republic 

Beauty Blender, Sleek Contour Kit in Light, Lime Crime Lipstick in Geradium, Lime Crime Nail Polish in Once In a Blue Mouse, Lime Crime Nail Polish Peaches & Cream, OCC Lip Tar in Memento, Sleek Brow Kit

Sephora 

Urban Decay Naked2 Palette, Urban Decay Naked Basics Palette, Urban Decay Glinda Palette, Korres Lip Butter in Guava and Pomegranate, Yves Saint Laurent Mascara Volume Effect Faux Cils Shocking, Tarte Lights Camera Lashes, Tarte Park Avenue Princess Bronzer, Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Wiz, NAR Laguna, NARS Sin Blus

MAC Cosmetics 

Vintage Selection Paint Pot, Grand Entrance Eyeshadow, Retrospeck Eyeshadow, Patisserie Lipstick

Furless Brushes 

Must Have Professional Makeup Brush Set

I think that's everything I want at the moment. I know it might not seem like a lot, but it's definitely enough. I don't even want to think about how much it's all going to cost me. Eek. I think one of the first orders I place is for Lipstick Republic. I really, really want to try a Beauty Blender. 

In addition to everything else I want to pick up or try, I also have to decide what I want to give away in my big birthday giveaway! If you have any ideas, or if there's anything that you'd really love to see in it or win, please comment below to let me know! 

Also! If you were in my position, what would be on top of your shopping list?

Always look your best,

Sophie

x

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Guess who finally got a job?!

If you follow me on Facebook, Instagram and/or Twitter (and if you don't, what is wrong with you?!), you'll know that I recently got a job. I started yesterday actually. YAY! I'm so excited to finally be working, earning money and doing something with my days.

Thanks to those of you who were so kind and supportive when I said I had the interview etc. I'm so lucky to have all of my amazing readers (as well as Facebook, Instagram and/or Twitter follows) in my life. 

Also, for all of you asking what I'll be doing; I'll be working for a not for profit community services agency as an Administration Officer. I've studied Community Services and Youth Work so I'm really excited to be putting into practise what I learnt! 

For the past 12(ish) days I've uploaded almost everyday but, now I'm not going to be home all the time, I'm going to go back to my every-two-days uploading schedule. I hope that's okay with you. I wanted to let you know when I'll be uploading because I really like being consistent and hate being all over the place. 

Anyway, that's about it for today! I really just wanted to give you all an update. I'm sure you guys can expect to see many, many hauls in the coming weeks/months. I have a lot of lost time to make up for and SUCH a big 'When I Get A Job' shopping list. Seriously, guys, you wouldn't believe it.. 

Now, my beauty loving friends, I want to know, what would you buy if you finally got a job? What's on the top of your beauty shopping list? Would you like to see my actual shopping list? I have it in my phone!

Always look your best,

Sophie

x

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Abbamart Make Up Brush Haul | Part One

I'm excited by things that some people will never understand; Delta Goodrem (read about my unhealthy obsession here), post mix Coke (I don't care what you say, it's delicious) and really cheap make up brushes are just a few. Whilst many of the people in my personal life won't be excited by the latter, the people in my blogging life will be. Basically this is a long winded way of saying that, thanks to the lovely Evangeline from makeuptips-blog.com, I've found a new website that sells brushes at amazing prices and, of course, I couldn't resist placing an order.

The site is called Abbamart and, as I said, these brushes are insanely well priced! What I love about this site, also, is that they have a lot of options. There's a combination of natural and synthetic brushes and handle lengths. Yep! Many of the brushes (not all) have the option to be purchased in a variety of lengths, meaning that they will fit in travel cases etc, as well as taller brush holders. 

Anyway, that's enough of the boring information. Let's get into the juicy bit, the stuff I bought! Oh, and before I begin, I apologise for the terrible photos. I never quite realised how difficult it is to photograph make up brushes, especially when you're taking them outside and it's 37 Degrees Celsius. Seriously, what was I thinking? Also, I've had these brushes for about a week now so I'll be able to let you know my initial thoughts. 

HUGE Lovisa Jewellery Giveaway

I love accessorising in any form but jewellery is one of my favourite ways to add excitement, personality and style to any outfit. With the cooler months coming up for all us Australians, I think it's a great excuse to add some new pieces to your collection. One of my 'go to' stores for jewellery and hair accessories is Lovisa. Their jewellery is beautiful, well priced and, given the fact that it's costume jewellery, I think it's great quality.

The lovely people at Lovisa have kindly sent me a six beautiful pieces of jewellery to one of my amazing readers. I'm so excited to give you all the opportunity to win this great prize pack. Let's get into what I'm giving away!

Entourage Cosmetics Body Gloss Lotion in Shooting Star Review and Swatch

Highlighting is something I've only recently gotten into. As someone with oily skin, highlighting seemed like counterproductive part of make up application as, in my mind, it was adding shine after I worked so hard to take it all away. Eventually I realised, however, that well placed highlighter in liquid or powder form can do wonders for your face and really bring a whole make up look together.

I've used the Entourage Cosmetics Body Gloss Lotion in Shooting Star on and off for a couple of months now and it's really impressed me. To find out why, keep reading!

Essence Home Sweet Home Trend Edition with Swatches

It's that time of year again! Yep, Essence has released a new Trend Edition, Home Sweet Home. With cosy names and deeper tones, these products are ready to help us greet Autumn! I was sent the Press Release for this Trend Edition and, given that it sounds so great, I wanted to share it with you all.

"My home is my castle! With the new Trend Edition 'Home Sweet Home' by Essence, things are going to get cozy and relaxed in March 2013. When it's story and rainy outside, there's no better place to be than on the couch at home! Cuddled up in your favourite sweater with a cup of hot chocolate in your hands, the darker months of the year are so cozy! The Trend Edition 'Home Sweet Home' picks up on this sense of wellbeing: warm red and Bordeaux shades plus high-gloss effects and powder textures are sure to chase away any chance of a gloomy mood! Lipstick in deep, warm shades, a lip maximizer for extra shine and volume, nail polishes for the popular gel-shine look, blush and eyeshadows with powdery textures as well as transparent nail stickers and a purse for accessories in a trendy Nordic knit design sweeten the dark days of winter!" 

- Essence Press Release

My Make Up Collection: Lipsticks and Lip Stains

A while ago I started a new series here on Born to Buy, My Make Up Collection. I decided that I'd share a part of my make up collection with you each week until, well, you've seen it all. This series is not about reviewing products because that would take forever but, if I've reviewed a product I'll be sure to link it! 

Face Primer and Foundation | Concealer | Face Powder | Highlighters and Bronzers | Blush | Mascara & Eye Primers | Eyeliner | Cream Eye Shadows and Bases | Loose Eyeshadows and Pigments | Individual and Eyeshadow Duos | Eyeshadow Trios, Quads and Palettes | Lip Pencil and Lip Gloss

I'm sure this goes without saying but please don't take this series of posts as bragging. That is not my intention at all. 

MAC In a Heartbeat (Cremesheen) | MAC Creme Cup (Cremesheen) | MAC Hot Gossip (Cremesheen) | MAC Lickable (Cremesheen) | MAC Vegas Volt (Amplified) | MAC Rebel (Satin)

MAC Blossom Culture (Sheen Supreme) | MAC Bare Again (Sheen Supreme) |  MAC Modesty (Cremesheen) | MAC Crosswire (Cremesheen) | MAC Look At Her! (Sheen Supreme) | MAC Bronze Shimmer (Frost)

Accidental Shopping: Target, Big W and Priceline Beauty Haul

Last weekend I did some accidental shopping. You know the type when you head into a store for toner or a few staple products and come out with enough make up to create a full look? It was one of those occasions.

Let's be real, the reason for the shopping trip was Revlon's rerelease of a cult favourite foundation but, being Sophie, I couldn't just stop at that. I picked up a few new things, including some limited edition products and new releases so let's get into it! 

To see what I bought, keep reading.

With my last $10.00 I would buy.. | Part One

A blogging friend of mine, Sarah from More Than Adored, recently started a weekly series on her blog, With Your Last $10.00. Basically it's a compilation of super affordable products that she would recommend you pick up, even if you're super broke and need to limit your weekly retail therapy to only $10.00.

After reading Sarah's (click here to see her first 'With Your Last $10' post) I emailed her to see if she would mind if I did something similar here on Born to Buy. Being someone who's just finished studying and is currently unemployed, I'm on a super tight budget so this is absolutely perfect for me and my current situation. Thankfully, the lovely Sarah said yes so here I am! I won't be uploading these posts as often as Sarah because, well, I don't have that many products under $10.00, but I already have a second planned!

Savoir Faire Cosmetics Mini Lipstick Review and Swatches

Sometimes it's nice to have the opportunity to purchase a product in mini, either to try it before you commit to buying it in full size or to have a travel/handbag size. Plus, who doesn't love a beauty product in mini form? There's just something super cute about them!

"With shades ranging from shimmering lights to sultry darks, these Savoir Faire Cosmetics Mini Lipsticks are perfect for a small clutch or purse and will create as much dazzle as our full size range. With all the same ingredients, such as beeswax, they will delight the wearer with their creamy texture, nourishing quality and water-resistance. All shades also lightly scented with vanilla, making for a delicious statement." 

- Savoir Faire 

The Savoir Faire Cosmetics Mini Lipsticks are a fantastic mini product. They provide you with an opportunity to test a product without investing in the full size and, as mentioned, are perfect for when you have limited space.

To find out more about these lipsticks, keep reading.

Personal Planner Giveaway Winner

Today I'm so happy to be announcing the winner of my latest giveaway. I really love announcing the winners of competitions and, to be honest, it's my favourite part!

Before I announce the winner, I just want to say a big thank you to Personal Planner for providing me with the prize for this giveaway. Personal Planner is such a great initiative (to read about the program and how I designed MY planner, click here) and I'm so excited to give a reader the opportunity to design and have their own.

One of my favourite parts about hosting giveaways here on Born to Buy is being able to announce the winner. I get such a thrill out of it! My readers are all so kind to me and provide me with such great feedback so it's always nice to have an opportunity to give back. I know that sounds like a cliche but, hey, it's true! If you haven't check out Personal Plannner at http://www.personal-planner.com.au, you should! It will make you want to be organised!

As always, thank you to everyone who entered this competition! It's been so nice to see some regular readers entering the giveaway, as well as new followers and readers. Regardless of how long you've been a part of the Born to Buy community, welcome and thank you! 

And now let's get into announcing the winner!

Australis, you're on a roll | New Products From Australis Cosmetics!

Australis Cosmetics is a on a roll lately, smashing out product releases like there's no tomorrow! It really is crazy. Do all brands release products at such a rapid rate? I don't know. I've even been told there's more coming! 

Being a beauty blogger, I'm lucky enough to receive the Press/Media Releases for all the new products that are hitting our shelves so I wanted to let you all in on the secrets. I've had the opportunity to try them all which I'm really thankful for, so keep an eye out for product reviews as I form opinions on them! 

To find out about the new products we can expect from Australis Cosmetics, keep reading!

My Make Up Collection | Eyeshadow Trios, Quads and Palettes

A while ago I started a new series here on Born to Buy, My Make Up Collection. I decided that I'd share a part of my make up collection with you each week until, well, you've seen it all. This series is not about reviewing products because that would take forever but, if I've receieved a product I'll be sure to link it!

Face Primer and Foundation | Concealer | Face Powder | Highlighters and Bronzers | Blush | Mascara & Eye Primers | Eyeliner | Cream Eye Shadows and Bases | Loose Eyeshadows and Pigments | Individual and Eyeshadow Duos | Lipsticks and Lip Stains | Lip Pencil and Lip Gloss

I won't be swatching these palettes because there's quite a few of them. If you want to see a review or swatches of the post, comment below. I'd be happy to do it for you all!

I'm sure this goes without saying but please don't take this series of posts as bragging. That is not my intention at all. 

If you want to see what's in my MAC palette and Z-Palette, click here. Those shadows were listed in my Individual and Eyeshadow Duos post.

Make Up For Ever Mat Velvet + Mattifying Foundation Review

If you've been following Born to Buy for a while now you'll know that I had the opportunity to try Make Up For Ever's HD Foundation thanks to the lovely people at Media Makeup Store. I was sent the Make Up For Ever Mat Velvet + Mattifying Foundation at the same time and, after using it for a while now, it's safe to say that I love this one too! 

'The Mat Velvet + foundation conceals skin imperfections, evens out the complexion and matifies with a non-oily powdery finish. The result is flawless and lasts for hours. Its smooth, fluid texture is very stable, water-resistant and long-lasting. While it has a good coverage, it is also easy to apply. The end result can be fitted to your needs. Applied lightly, Mat Velvet + provides a natural, matte look to the complexion. Using several layers to help conceal blemishes creates a supple and elastic velvety finish. This new oil-free and non comedogenic formula is suited to sensitive skins." 

- makeupforever.com 

Sigma 10% OFF for APRIL, 2013

Given that everyone loves a bargain, I thought I'd share this month's Sigma 10% off discount code with you all. There's so much I want from Sigma (click here and here to see my two shopping lists) so I absolutely love knowing the monthly discount codes. Who wants to pay retail when they don't have to? For the month of April, click, get 10% off all Sigma orders using the Coupon Code below at the checkout.

For direct access to the Sigma Beauty website, click here. If you buy anything, comment below to let me know! I'd love to hear what you've bought! If you already own Sigma brushes (or cosmetics, for that matter), comment below telling me what you think of them! You all know how I love my recommendations. 

Always look your best,

Sophie

x

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