Check It Out! – Straight from Santa’s Sack

Hey there guys, :-h  Happy New Year to you all!<:-PWell now that the 2011 seasonal festivities are done anddusted, we’re moving right along into 2012 and with that I’ve brought along a ‘show and tell’ of all the new ‘beauty booty’ that dear old Santagenerously emptied from his fully loaded sack and left under the Christmas treewith MYname on it.\:D/

The whole kit and kaboodle

Napoleon Perdis Makeup Cosmetics Bag
This cute little NP Makeup Bag is white with chocolatetrimmings and features a zip top opening.It’s approximately 22cm(L)x 12cm(W)x 15cm(H) and made of 100% polyester.I have swags of these but never still never seem to have enough, lol!:))ALWAYS,ALWAYS, ALWAYS room for one more!

Expanded Makeup Bag

Flat Makeup Bag

 
NapoleonPerdis Luxe Mega Desk To Dusk Palette
This limited edition palette boasts a compilation ofdelightfully festive shades that bestow lots of joy and a cheerful Christmas-yspirit.Consisting of four highlypigmented eyeshadows, four complimentary powder blushes and four nourishing lipglosses with a pop of colour, this is the perfect ‘all-you-need’ makeup kit on the go.  

Desk to Dusk & Double Agent Palettes

NapoleonPerdis Double Agent Rouge Lip Palette

At first, I thought this was blush, oops!:">umm, well it’s the rouge part that gets meevery time, I always though rouge was a cosmetic used to color the cheeks andemphasise the cheekbones, but I’ve actually spotted numerous lippies with rougein the title as well…..confusing much!:-/  For the record, rouge is actually French for the color red, so in thiscase we are talking red lippies.
I actually have a huge limited edition NP lip palette andit’s impressive so I knew this one wouldn’t disappoint.What is different about this duo is that itincorporates a smooth, creamy, semi-matte lipstick infused with vitamin E andCarnauba Wax, alongside a unique mattifying lip powder to boost staying powerand a pair of application brushes.Thispalette, said to be inspired by Old Hollywood film icons, results in a red, velvety,full-bodied pout that will not budge.I’ve never tried a lip powder before now and I think it’s pretty genius.*-:)Just loving this whole concept ATM:xandwould be keen to see it developed with a range of other colours too :)

Desk to Dusk & Double Agent Palettes

.NapoleonPerdis Luxe Lip Gloss Collection
Well a girl can’t have too many lip glosses and to be honest,I have actually steered clear of buying lip glosses myself over the past 12months to try and put a dent in the huge collection I had built up, whichworked, as I was able to see the bottom of the makeup draw once they hadthinned out.Therefore, this set of 5luxurious limited edition glosses couldn’t have come at a better time.They’re formulated with plenty of lusciouslip goodies like Green Tea and Pomegranate to nurture your smackers, whilstadorning them with a hint of chic, shiny color..
NapoleonPerdis Under Cover Red Lip Gloss

NP Lip Glosses

While I often have trouble finding a suitable red lipstick,fortunately red lip glosses are always more kind to me and a shade like this, isactually a color that anyone can wear.This limited edition gloss has a jelly-like texture, which makes itsuper comfortable to wear.Packed withactive ingredients and teamed with antioxidants ensures the lips aresufficiently hydrated and consistently protected.Luckily, it’s not sticky at all, instead, thesmooth, easy to glide formula delivers a remarkable shine and the specialself-adjusting phantom pigments provide a lightly coloured stain that magicallyadapts to flatter the individual skin tone.>-) ;)
NapoleonPerdis Front Row Red Lip Gloss
This is an unusual limited edition cranberry coloured glosswith a creamy texture that provides a lips with a glamourous wash of colourwith a velvety finish.The best part isthe ultra, long-lasting staying power!This super smooth, statement lip look will stay in place for up to 10hours!:-O   Well kind of anyway, hehe;))as the coloured stain definitely will remainon your smackers long after the glossiness wears off.
NapoleonPerdis Lady In Red Lip Gloss
This is more of a lipstick than a gloss, in the way that it’sa highly pigmented classic red shade, however the weightless formulationultimately delivers a soft, flexible finish that’s incredibly shiny.The creamy textured, limited edition gloss iscomfortable to wear and never tacky, while the long-lasting color stays putfor up to 6 hours.

NP Set Cosmetic Kit

NPSet Pretty Presto Cosmetic Set
I am still quite new to NP Set products, even though theyhave been around for a while now.I havethough, tried a few items in their range of which, keep amazing me, because thegood quality cosmetics always deliver in performance and results, especially consideringthe relatively cheap price tag they bear.I am a sucker for budget cosmetics when they are reliable and NP Setfits the bill!;;)This little compact makeup kit features abuilt-in, flip-up mirror, which exposes two shimmery neutral-colouredeyeshadows and a charming blush, along with a mini mascara and nude colouredmini gloss.Infused with the goodness ofvitamins this set has your lips, eyes and face covered to create a naturallybeautiful makeup look anytime, anywhere. 

NP Set Cosmetic Kit

Alpha-HDaily Essential Moisturiser SPF 30+
This is an old faithful of mine that I regularly use,particularly in summer because it’s ideal underneath makeup.It’s a multi-tasking trifecta that combines amoisturiser, antioxidant and sunscreen, which boasts five, non-nano,broad-spectrum protection filters that absorb both UVA and UVB rays like aforce field, before they can cause any damage.  The skin preservingantioxidants are beneficial in the fight against premature skin aging and mayreduce the risk of certain sun cancers. What’s more, it is water resistant forup to four hours, so I can enjoy water activities, like swimming, withoutworrying that my skin is exposed.I havepreviously provided a complete review of this product in my SunProtection Staring Oily Skin blog post back in August.(*)

Daily Essential

ASAPDaily Exfoliating Facial Scrub (Mini 50ml)
I am a huge fan of the cleanser in this range, which likethis scrub is formulated with AHA’s for a deep pore clean.I have been using this reliable cleanser forthe past few years on a regular basis, already sharing the experience in my Cleansing postlast July.I oddly enough, have not yettried this scrub, mostly because I am not a big fan of scrubby exfoliatorsanyway, thus I basically feel that I am getting the benefits of chemicalexfoliation with the cleanser anyway, therefore couldn’t justify needing theadditional scrub.
I imagine that it will provide all of the wonderfuladvantages of chemical exfoliation, along with some extra oomph enhanced by theexfoliating beads.I love that ASAP is anAustralian professional, yet simple and affordable cosmeceutical skin carerange that adopts potent active ingredients that provide super effective,visible results in a gentle, non-irritating formula suitable for all skintypes.I will definitely test drive thisexfoliator and will review it at a later stage.Ideally, this scrub is available in the small 50ml tube as well as it’slarger 250ml counterpart to give consumers the chance to try before they committo buying the full-sized product.
ClarinsMoisture Rich Body Lotion (Mini 30ml)

Body Lotion, Bath/Shower Concentrate, Facial Scrub

I initially first tried this when I received it inconjunction with an order I placed at the Facial Company, who always delightand tempt me with their lavish free samples that always accompany allorders.I have since purchased afull-size tube as these days I have come a long way from my earlier years wheremy body and skin care were never recognised in the same sentence and wasneglected accordingly.Now I consider mybody skin care just as important as my face and moisturising my damp skinimmediately after showering daily is essential for keeping my body in tiptopshape.
Despite the title, I would definitely classify thismoisturiser as a cream rather than a lotion because it’s extremely rich andnourishing with a thick texture.All thewhile, as hydrating as it is, the cream absorbs almost instantly with no greasyresidue and my skin is left feeling silky smooth and supple in appearance.It works a charm to replenish dry patches andthe results are long lasting.It’s quiteheavily fragranced but it’s a natural, pleasant scent that tantalises thesenses and doesn’t tend to linger around after application.It’s definitely a work-horse, which makes itan ideal moisturiser for year round body skin care.
ClarinsTonic Bath & Shower Concentrate (Mini 50ml)
I am yet to try this bath and shower treat, but one whiff ofthe aroma from the bottle and I am already sold, hehe!. ;))   I am a sucker for yummy smelling bath andshower products and this is right up there with the best of them.:xThiswould be ideal to use first thing in the morning to lift the spirits andprovide an instant 'pick-me-up' with it’s invigorating, enlivening orientalfragrance.On the same token it wouldalso be perfect after a long, tiring day when you want to kick back in the bathto relax and unwind. It is a gel-based formula enriched with essential oils andfeatures another special quality, which is it’s ability to help tone and firmthe body skin.Sounds perfect to me, Iwill keep you posted on my thoughts after I give it a good work out ;) 
EsthedermCellular Water Spray (Mini 35ml)
I first purchased a tin of this spray a few years ago and itis without a doubt my favorite facial mist of all time. :x Ipersonally love how Esthederm has zoned in on the concept that our skin needs tohave sufficient water or it will become dehydrated, feel tighter, looseelasticity and generally age faster. Their Cellular Water is the first and onlyreplica of our very own skin's water, which is ferried deep into the layers ofour skin to maintain hydration, which helps delay the aging process.
This particular spray has an aerosol delivery system thatprovides just the right amount of fine mist to refresh my face anytime,anywhere. I keep this in my handbag tofreshen up constantly whenever my skin is feeling dull or dry, especially insummertime. It saves my face fromsuffering dehydration caused from being in and out of air-conditioning alongwith our naturally drying humid climate. The spray itself is extremely lightweight andairy but also highly effective. It disappears instantly into my skin and leavesno remnants at all; instead, my skin is just very refreshed and fullyenergised. =D>

Water Spray, AOX, Power Rich

I also suffer from skin sensitivity and often reach straightfor this spray to provide instant soothing relief from irritation orinflammation. Packed full of mineralsthat are also good for our skin this spray is beneficial to restore pH balanceand protect against external pollutions and free radical damage. Another use for this wonderful multi-taskingspray is that it is perfect to set my mineral makeup. Because I have oily skin, I find using it as asetting spray keeps my makeup in place for longer and helps to keep my skinmatte throughout the day. Oh and it has evenmore purposes too!Its really handy touse as a toner when I am in a hurry and need to get through my usual skin caresteps faster than normal or on those days when my skin is oilier than normal ithydrates my skin without needing to apply a cream or lotion into the mix.:D
This facial mist has become a staple in my skin care ritual prettymuch all year around, but with summer bearing down on us I am needing (andwanting of course) to use it more than ever. I can always be sure it will leave my skinhydrated, provides a boost of much needed moisture whenever the need arises. Overtime, with continued use, it could also help me fight off those early signs ofageing to keep my skin looking younger for longer. Until then however, I ammore than satisfied with its immediate results and promise to anyone that itwill surely keep your skin feeling enriched and alive throughout our long, hotAustralian summer conditions.:D
DermalogicaAGE Smart Power Rich (10ml Sample)
I have personally tried a ridiculously large array ofDermalogica products, although due to the expensive $305 RRP price tag that embellishesthis skin treatment, I have never even considered using it myself.:-OAlthough,like everything in the Dermalogica professional skin care range, I expect thisproduct to be highly effective with a potent blend of active ingredients,vitamins and botanicals to assist in complete skin renewal.I’m confident that with frequent use it will proclaima positive advancement in the repair and improved overall condition of damaged,prematurely aged skin that over time will lead to optimal skin health and eventuallypromote a more youthful appearance.
This deluxe sample offer is actually very generous from Dermalogica, considering the retail cost is for 50ml worth of product, a sampleof this size is valued at an unbelievable $61 $-) Ihave always wanted to try this product and am thrilled to finally have thechance.I will review my experience andshare it with you all further down the track.Even f it exceeds my expectations, I doubt I will be in the market toinvest in such a high-end, luxury anti-ageing skin care treatment any time soon,but I am sure I will feel a million bucks just trying it ;)
PayotAOX(4 ml Sample)
Speaking of expensive luxury skin performers, this product exclusivelyfrom leading French skin care company Payot, tops the previous product with asteep $362.50 price tag for a mere 50 ml product.:-O:-OPrice tag aside, this advanced,highly concentrated anti-ageing product boasts completely different ingredientsthan other comparable costly skin care treatments; however, at the end of theday it targets the same concerns and advocates itself as a super cream/serumthat is the ultimate in anti-ageing care.While I can’t expect to discover anything miraculous with a small 4mlsample, I’m still going to indulge in a bit of extravagance to see what itfeels like to use something so lavish it’s more than likely fit for a King or Queen.
Burt'sBees Radiance Night Creme with Royal Jelly (Mini 7gm tub)
I already have this in a full-size version that I receivedfrom Burt’s Bees Australia as part of their Radiance Trial Team last year.Here is my review of this night cream fromthat range.This night cream featuresthe signature sweet and fruity fragrance that is typical throughout this entire range. I am not fond of the scent unfortunately and it seems to be noticeablyprominent in this night cream when I first apply it to my face. While I am not impressed with the scent, Ihave continued using this night cream as I wanted to fully experience thebenefits of all the botanical ingredients, along with vitamins, minerals andthe hero ingredient in the range, royal jelly, to see if it would make my skinmore radiant, as per its claims.
The night cream comes in a large sized glass pot/tub and the cream itself is athick, buter-like, creamy consistency, that is ultra rich and fairly heavy intexture on my oily skin. I don’t mindusing products that are a bit richer or take longer to soak into my skin at night,as it doesn’t matter if my skin looks a bit shiny when I am sleeping.As long as it is benefiting from the goodnessof the ingredients, I can live with the nighttime shine. The cream feels super soothing and cooling onmy skin, as it nourishes my face and neck, allowing the powerful ingredients topenetrate within and get to work during the night shift. Keep in mind, all thisis happening while I am catching up on my much needed Zzz’s.   I-)WhenI wake in the morning, I can still feel the cream coating my face, which is aslight bit oily but thankfully nothing extreme.#:-SI can instantly recognisethat the texture is so much softer and smoother, while my skin tone looks more even,with none of the usual evident signs of flushing and redness I tend to experienceoccasionally. Any of the excess residuefrom the night cream washes straight off with my morning cleanse, so it isn’tcause for concern. #:-S
Other than the overbearing scent, this fades out eventually, this night crèmetargets my skin concerns head on. After just a few weeks, I could notice myskin becoming plumper and firmer, which helps disguise any fine lines, leavingmy skin with a natural, youthful glow. My skin tone has improved heaps, that beingthe most obvious change noticeable to my naked eye, as well as the decrease ofexcess oil production, resulting in less congestion and fewer breakouts. Mycomplexion looks rejuvenated and is surprisingly brighter, healthier and more youthful.It’s such a fantastic range that totallyexceeded my expectations and if it weren’t for the funny smell it could havepossibly won a permanent home in my skin care ritual.An unscented version would be excellent!!!;)

Hand Cream, Bath Crystals, Night Cream

Burt'sBees Almond Milk Beeswax Hand Crème (Mini 7g tub)
I have tried this Hand Cream in a sample before and like allBurt’s Bees hand cream’s I can’t rave about them enough.I like the fact that it is actually more of athick, waxy balm than a cream, which envelopes my hands in a protective shieldthat completely nourishes and cares for my particularly dry, overworked handsas it attempts to soften and rejuvenate the neglected skin, repairing damagedcuticles.Because it’s so rich and onthe heavy side, this is probably the most hydrating hand cream I have ever usedand helps make for silky soft skin with a younger-looking appearance. 
Whilst I do love everything about this ‘super balm’ it is still actually myleast favorite of the Burt’s Bees hand creams!  #-obecauseI am sensitive to certain fragrances and I’m not overly fussed on the somewhatfake perfume scent this strongly concedes.Some of the other versions are far more delectable, whereas this one is sostrongly scented; it smells like a sickly sweet aniseed that is quite artificial,instead of natural, as it should be.Ialso don’t find any resemblance to almonds in the aroma, if it did I wouldn’tmind it at all, but this is just not it at all!!!/:) Overall though, I would only deduct one point for the overbearing smell, the rest of the product, I dare say is near perfect and exactly what I look for in a hand cream 
 

Burt'sBees Therapeutic Bath Crystals (44gm sachet)

I’ve not seen or tried this one before now, but I ampositive it will be very well received and I can’t wait to get the bathroom tomyself so I can create my own little pampering retreat.There is nothing better than a soak in thetub with some bath salts to help detox and tone the skin, relieve sore, tiredmuscles, .promote a restful sleep and reduce stress, while leaving your skinsilky soft and incredibly smooth. The addition of essential oils such aseucalyptus and lemon are extremely invigorating and refreshing for theskin.These salts will be so beneficialfor those times when I need to melt all those cares away, ahh >:D< purerelaxation.I’ll get around to reviewingthis product in full further down the track after I get the chance to check itout for myself;)
I was very lucky wouldn’t you say?This lot will keep me going for months, notto mention, some of the products have come in handy for those mind blocks whenI can’t think of a topic to blog about, lol!:))Thereis going to be a few reviews to write up, but the best part will absolutely bethe test drive B-)Can’t wait, now thatI have shown you all everything I got, it’s time to PLAY!!!Did you get any beauty or personal care relateditems for Christmas?If so, then fill usin!If not, what did you get instead?