Red Square understands the 'Digital Diva'

I received a really unexpected gift from Red Square store containing tons of samples. I was a tad confused but after reading the note it came with, I waited with anticipation to receive more details and once I did, I liked what I saw!

I'm not one for online shopping myself but I do admire Red Square's new online sampling program. You get to choose three samples when making an order online which will give you the opportunity to try products out before your next purchase (just like the ones in the picture above). This proves that they understand the digital diva. We want to know what products to commit to by testing it out first!

You're probably asking yourself, "what am I going to do with three tiny samples?". Let me tell you ladies, end of the month, just before pay day, I live off samples! It's just the way we get beauty on a budget.

Image provided by Red Square PR

You will also get the opportunity to review/comment on products you have purchased from Red Square to create a community of ladies who help each other with shopping advice.

Gone are the days of ladies knowing less than men. Nowadays women are dominating the social media and online shopping platforms.

Keep an eye out on www.redsquare.co.za to find out how you can get a piece of the cake!!

In my sample basket: African Extracts

A sample that I recently got to try out is the beautiful African Extracts Rooibos Hand and Body Lotion.

I am forever passing the African Extract products in Clicks and Dis-Chem and saying "Ah! I still need to try those products" but never do so I am really glad I received this sample (can't remember exactly where I got it from).

What I loved

I love that there is a huge 'Paraben free' notice on the back of my sample. There are always mixed feelings about the ingredient but I prefer products that do not contain paraben's.

Another great thing that makes this product unique is the Rooibos ingredient. It helps protect skin against free radicals and promote healthy skin. The tissue oil helps to re-hydrate and nourish dry damaged skin.

What I disliked

There isn't really anything I dislike other than my sample didn't contain enough lotion because I used it so often and now it's finished :(

I really love how this lotion made my skin feel and smell. It really is a unique lotion and I would love to purchase their affordable full size products and also get to try their facial range.

Follow me on Twitter and like my Facebook page. I am also on Instagram so follow me for more beauty related pictures :)

Have you tried African Extracts?

Miss Claira-Bella

In my sample basket: Kiehl's

Since their launch in SA a few months ago, Kiehl's has become a favourite to many beauty bloggers and the average Jane. To be honest, I had never heard about the brand Kiehl's before as I have never really traveled abroad and I don't have rich friends who travel ;)

The hype over their venture to SA has calmed down quite a bit so I decided to visit the Sandton City store to get a few samples and put the claims to test.

First off I want to say that I don't really have skin problems, after going on a course of roaccutane earlier this year, so I can't really comment on how the products help with acne or blackheads and problem skin.

Here is what I got to test out:

Ultra Facial Cleanser

This mild cleanser is specially formulated with a sugar-derived glucoside foaming agent to thoroughly cleanse skin and remove makeup, without over-drying or stripping skin of its natural oils. With effective emollients Squalane, Apricot Kernel Oil, Vitamin E and Avocado Oil, the gently formula dissolves excess oil, dirt and debris. pH-balanced to maintain the skin's natural balance.

What I loved

You only need the tiniest amount to make a comfortable amount of foam and this is one of my favourite things about this face wash! Ladies are always searching for reasons to splurge and what is better than "it'll save you money in the long run". SOLD!

My face didn't feel dried after using this face wash, which I find happens often with other facial cleansers I have used in the past.

Ultra Facial Toner

This mild yet effective toner for all skin types helps refine surface texture, while providing the ideal preparation for classic Ultra Facial Moisturiser. Made with effective emollients Squalane, Apricot Kernel Oil, Avocado Oil and Vitamin E, the non-alcoholic toning formula gently removes surface debris and remaining residue while hydrating and comforting skin. pH-balanced for optimal comfort and will not over-dry or strip skin of its natural oils

What I loved

I felt like such an idiot when I applied this toner for the first time because the sample doesn't come with directions or advise on application techniques. I ended up applying a little too much and then washing it off because I was afraid my skin would turn red (I didn't know about the non-alcoholic toning formula at this point).

I gave myself a pep talk, figured out a technique and decided to apply the toner with my fingertips. With pricier products like this, I don't like using cotton pads to apply the toner because most of the product is just soaked up by the cotton.
I really love that it gave my skin a smooth clean base for it to soak up all the goodness in the Ultra Facial Cream!

Ultra Facial Cream

Inspired by their original beloved Ultra Facial Moisturiser, this 24-hour, light-textured daily hydrator leaves skin comfortable and visibly well-balanced, particularly in harsh weather conditions. 

The formula is made with Antarcticine (a glycose protein extracted from microorganisms sourced from sea glaciers and notable for an ability to protect skin from cold temperatures) as well as Imperata Cylindrica, a plant indigenous to the Australian desert which possess superb water retention properties in dry conditions. Their unique combination of ingredients helps reduce moisture loss while drawing and absorbing moisture from the air. With continuous water replenishment throughout the day, skin is smooth, healthy looking and "moisture-even".

What I loved

This is definitely my favourite of the three samples and in this skincare routine. This face cream is potent in moisturising and really understanding my skin's needs. *It must be love*
It moisturised my skin so well and the feeling lasted the entire day. I only needed to use a small amount to get the moisturised feeling. I also found that it gave a great base for my foundation.

What I disliked (overview of all the samples)
I often bring this up, and I hope to do an entire post on the subject early next year, but some of my samples did contain at least one paraben ingredient. It is imperative in some products as it is a preserving ingredient but it might be a problem for some ladies.

Over all, I really see why everyone loves Kiehl's products. Another amazing thing is the wide selection of products! If I had to test out every single one of their products, it would take quite a few months. In other words, it would be difficult to not find something you like.

At the moment there is only a Kiehl's store in Sandton City's Edgars, Gauteng, But there has been an exciting announcement of a pop up store making an appearance in Canal walk's Edgars from mid December 2012 to mid January 2013. This is a perfect opportunity to buy some great Christmas gifts for close friends and family :)

Thanks so much to the friendly staff at the Kiehl's store, for my samples. I also felt privileged to see the 'Mr.skeleton guy' who became quite famous at the store's launch a few months ago.

Follow kiehl's on Twitter.
Don't forget I am also part of the cool kids on Facebook and Twitter ;)

I am hoping to gather all my 5cent coins and splurging on some full size products from keihl's soon!

Miss Claira-Bella

Xoxo

In my sample basket: Palmers Cocoa Butter Formula

This week I took the time out to enjoy Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula with Vitamin E which I use as a hand and elbow lotion.

"Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Body Lotion, made with pure Cocoa Butter, enriched with Vitamin E, in a soothing emollient base, heals and softens rough, dry skin, smoothes marks and tones skin. An excellent all-over-the-body moisturizer and after tanning butter. Also available in a fragrance free formula." Source

For some reason I thought this was a South African manufactured product, possibly because of it's "cheaper" packaging but it is actually manufactured in the USA. *FYI*

What I loved

My number one love is the scent! It smells just like when you bake a chocolate cake and me being an avid baker, I just cant stop sniffing myself after applying this lotion. It really moisturises my skin and I can see the benefits of the vitamin E because my skin looks luscious and is a lot plumper. 

It also claims to help sooth marks which, I assume means scars and other pigmentation but I haven't really applied it to any problem areas so I will have to test that another time.

I love the consistency of the lotion. It isn't watery but it isn't too thick which makes it the perfect lotion for both Winter and Summer. 

What I disliked

This specific product from Palmer's does contain parabens and with my "paraben research", I am not a huge fan of the ingredient.

I have heard tons of great things about the Cocoa Butter Formula for stretch marks which was specifically designed for pregnant ladies. I am keen to try it out one day for my pregnancy stretch marks or even if I start working out, to tone skin.

Cocoa Butter Formula for Stretch Marks

Overall I think this would be something I could invest in during winter, just because they come in rather large sizes and they are quite affordable.

I think you can get Palmer's at most 'Drug stores' like Clicks, Dischem, Pick'nPay and other Pharmacies. I am not sure about the prices but I do remember them being really affordable.

Have you tried this well known lotion?

Miss Claira-Bella

Xoxo

In my sample basket - Lady Gaga Fame EDP {Video Review}

Check out my video review for Lady Gaga's Fame EDP below.

What I loved

I love how everyone was expecting a really gross scent from this fragrance and then when it came out people's reactions were like "Whaaat? It's so pretty". I also like that it is a very light fragrance and can be worn by pretty much anyone, even teens.

What I disliked

The fragrance did not last as long as I'd hoped it to. It is the first proper EDP I have tried and I feel that it didn't me give the staying power that you should get from a higher concentration of perfume. It was just like an EDT :(

I would actually love to own a full size masterpiece of Fame, just to own the bragging rights! Unfortunately I do not know how much the full size is but I will definitely investigate. (Please leave a comment below if you know how much it is)

EDP 101

Top notes: The scents that are smelled immediately as you apply the perfume. Top notes consist of small, light molecules that evaporate quickly. They form a person's initial impression of a perfume.

Middle notes: The scent of a perfume that you smell just when the top notes disappear. The middle note compounds form the "heart" or main body of a perfume and act to mask the often unpleasant initial impression of base notes, which become more pleasant with time.

Base notes: The scent of a perfume that you smell as the middle notes go away. The base and middle notes together are the main theme of a perfume. Base notes bring depth and solidity to a perfume and are usually not perceived until 30 minutes after application. Source

Social media shenanigans:

Beauty Bulletin Website

Beauty Bulletin on Facebook

Miss Claira-Bella on Facebook

Thanks to Beauty Bulletin for my little sample of the very popular Lady Gaga Fragrance. 

Leave friendly comments below ;)

Miss Claira-Bella

Xoxo

In my sample basket - Crabtree & Evelyn

In my sample basket this week is a Crabtree and Evelyn Sample pot containing their new Lily Hand Therapy.

"Hand Therapy’s ultra-moisturising formula contains shea butter, lily of the valley extract, and macadamia nut oil to leave skin hydrated and delicately soft to the touch. Ceramides help keep moisture close to the skin surface, while myrrh extract helps condition nails and cuticles. The Hand Therapy Collection is formulated without parabens, lauryl sulfates, mineral oil or propylene glycol." - CT&E

What I loved

The scent of this hand therapy is heavenly! The scent gives you a very elegant feeling, as if you were a beautiful young lady in a 50's movie. The lotion has quite a thick consistency which is what I look for in a hand cream. It helps keep your nails and cuticles moisturised and that is a deal maker for me! There is also zero stickiness after applying this hand lotion. *We have a winner!*

What I disliked

If I really had to be anal and try to find something to dislike, I guess some ladies could find the scent to be a bit too "perfume-like" but that all depends on personal preference.(I don't mind)

RSP: 250g is R300, 100g is R280, 50g is R140

Whether you're a stay at home mom, a beauty therapist or in a corporate environment, this is a great hand lotion to keep in your purse.

As with all Crabtree & Evelyn products, they tend to be pricier than other brands but the quality that you receive in each product is fantastic. Being on a tight budget, this would definitely be a splurge, but one I would happily make.

You can find the Lily Hand Therapy in Crabtree & Evelyn stores from November 2012. A great gift for that special lady in your life. Wonder over to their website/online store to check out other products that might catch your eye.

Don't forget to subscribe to my blog by email (top right hand side) to ensure you don't miss out on future posts. Follow me on Twitter and like my Facebook page.

Miss Claira-Bella

Xoxo

In my sample basket - Piz Buin

Considering how hot it has been in SA lately, I decided to try out my Piz Buin Tan Intensifier in sun lotion sample for this week's "In my sample basket" review.

My Piz Buin Tan Intensifier sample

What I loved

This sun lotion does not have the typical 'sun screen' scent that most ladies dislike. It is really enjoyable and I would love my other lotions to have that scent as well. The lotion leaves my skin with a natural glow (not the sweaty type) which is perfect for a day in the sun.

As you can see, the lotion leaves a light glow on the skin (excuse my weird hulk-like veins).

What I disliked

I'm not sure I like the fact that they are quite vague on the "in sun lotion" details. Is it a sun screen, sun block or an oil-type lotion? It does has an SPF 15 but I am not confidant that it will really protect me from UV rays.

Full size - Image from Google

Overall I might actually buy the full size, depending on the occasion. I am not much of a 'tanner' but maybe I'll be invited to a pool party (I'm hopeful) and will use the opportunity to get a slight tan.

If you've tried this product, I'd love to hear your thoughts down in the comments below.

Miss Claira-Bella

Xoxo

In my sample basket - Dr.Hauschka

This week I will be reviewing my Dr.Hauschka Daily Revitalizing Eye Cream.

Image Source

"Daily Revitalising Eye Cream is composed of nourishing plant oils and medicinal herb extracts that care for and refresh the delicate eye contour area. Its lightweight formula is absorbed rapidly by the skin, meaning it can be used immediately before applying make-up.

It has been formulated to provide calming, soothing, and fortifying care to the skin around the eye area, therefore helping to prevent premature wrinkles and bringing welcome relief to the eyes." - Source

What I liked

I learned something new! One of the ingredients is marsh mallow which I got really excited about because I love marsh mallows!! After doing further research, I found out it is actually a plant called Althaea Officinalis, which is indigenous to Africa. It helps refresh and soothe skin and is more traditionally used for mouth and throat ulcers, and gastric ulcers (It also looks really pretty). In traditional Chinese medicine it is known to increases the flow of breast milk and soothes the bronchial tubes. Read more about the awesome 'marsh mallow' here.

Althaea Officinalis - Image source

What I disliked

The first time I applied this eye cream, my eyes felt irritated and itchy. I am not sure if I maybe got some inside my eye but it was really uncomfortable. I also hate it when I have to go searching for prices of a product. We Humans, are very lazy creatures, so if something isn't right in front of our eye's, we wont think twice about just passing right by, without a caring. None of the Dr.Hauschka products, on their website, have a price tag. Immediate "product turn-off".

Full size

I doubt I will purchase the full size because my skin doesn't feel as comfortable with this eye cream as it does with others (namely my Payot eye cream). I will be doing another few posts about Dr.Hauschka in the future beacuse I have more samples in my basket.

If you are interested in reading a bit more about Dr.Hauschka's products then visit Dr.Hauschka's website and Facebook Page.

Have you tried this eye cream? I would love to read what you thought, in the comments below.

Miss Claira-Bella

Xoxo

In my sample basket - Versace

I got totally side tracked last week and didn't get to post my sample basket review so this week there will just be two reviews instead of the usual one.

I've taken another EDT sample out of my basket and it's the Versace Yellow Diamond EDT. I tried this sample when I first got it (in one of the previous Ruby boxes) and fell in love immediately.

I know I say "I'm in love with this product" or, "I love, love, love this product" a lot, but with this Versace Yellow Diamond EDT, I literally get butterflies in my stomach, that's how much I love it. Weird?

RSP R950.00

Versace Yellow Daimond is described as a pure, transparent and airy floral fragrance, sparkling and intense as the yellow color, while being luxurious and feminine like a diamond.

It's top notes are neroli, bergamot, amalfi lemon and pear; middle notes are african orange flower, water lily, freesia and mimose; and base notes are musk, guaiac wood and amber.

There is nothing that I dislike about this EDT. I love the full sized bottle with the gigantic yellow diamond cap. It smells like something Cinderella would wear when she attended the magical Ball *Good job Fairy God Mother*.

Eau De Toilette 101

EDT is also know as "Toilet Water" and is considered a "weak" or diluted version of perfume. The concentration of aromatic ingrediences in an EDT is 5-15% (typical ~10%) aromatic compounds where as Eau De Parfum (EDP) is 10-20% (typical ~15%) aromatic compounds.

This EDT is a bit too pricey for my pocket so I doubt I will ever own the full size :( but if you purchase it then you wont regret it.

Miss Claira-Bella

Xoxo

P.S. The price might differ from what I captioned in the full size photo.

In my sample basket - Yardley

This week I will be reviewing my Yardley So...? What EDT sample, that I picked up at Dis-Chem.

I'm not one that wears perfume a lot, usually only on special occasions, so I wouldn't say I'm a perfume expert or have a lot of knowledge on the subject. This will soon change as I have been doing tons of research and find it quite interesting.

Yardley So…? What can be described as an addictive girly fragrance introduced by fruity notes, slightly edible, intertwined with a rich floral bouquet and rounded by a powerful woody background illuminated by vanilla.

Top Notes: Bergamot, Mandarin, Leafy Green, Apple, Coconut, Raspberry 

Middle Notes: Rose, Jasmine, Ylang-Ylang, Freesia, Lily of the Valley 

Base Notes: Cedarwood, Patchouli, Musk, Vanilla

What I loved

This is a very sweet scent that reminds me of eating fruit lollipops on the beach as a kid. It can be layered, which is always good to have in a perfume.

My Dislikes

It can be a bit too 'sweet'. I wouldn't suggest spraying tons on your body, just a light spritz on your neck will be enough to make you smell really good but not too overwhelming. 

Yardley So…? What is available in 50ml Eau de Parfum (R99.95) and 90ml Perfume Body Spray at selected Foschini, Edgars, Red Square, Clicks and Dis-Chem stores, leading pharmacies and The Hub.

Seeing as this little EDT is so affordable I will definitely be purchasing it!

keep an eye out for next week's sample!

In my sample basket - Bee Natural

This week I have been using my Bee Natural's Rehydrating Face Balm sample, which I received in one of my Sample boxes. Here is what I thought about it :)

I haven't been using this on my face because I am testing all kinds of products on my face at the moment and thought it would be too much for my skin, to add another. I have been using this as a lip balm instead and let me tell you, I am impressed!

"Bee Natural's Rich Rehydrating Face Balm is the ultimate natural skin care product to use for nourishing, moisturizing and rejuvinating facial skin. The unique combination of beeswax, raw honey, propolis, pollen, retinol, collagen, elastin, Q10, jojoba and avocado oil rapidly penetrate the skin - expect a visible difference after first application! The balm also contains a plan based SPF 15 thus providing safe and natural protection from UV rays." Source

Full size RSP R89.90 for 30ml

What I loved

-It doesn't smell or taste funny. I have found a lot of natural products don't have a pleasant scent and natural lip balms usually taste bitter. This face balm has a waxy scent but it's not overpowering and with the honey ingredient, it doesn't have a bitter taste (Reminder: I'm not eating the face balm, lol, I'm using it as a lip balm and that's why I tasted it).

-It's so smooth and doesn't have a sticky texture. The wax to honey ratio is perfect. It goes on my skin so easily and it feels amazingly 'soft' and lightweight.

-It helped clear red patches that I had. After this horrid winter dryness (as well as being on roaccutane), my lips had many red patches where my skin had peeled off and bled. After using this balm on my lips, the red patches have completely disappeared. *Life saver*
-It has an SPF 15. It might not be the highest sun protectant factor but if you're looking for a light protection from the harsh UV rays, this is it. (Great to wear under you makeup everyday)

What I disliked

The only problem I found was that it was difficult to get out of my sample pot. The wax was hard from the cold but I quickly came up with a solution. I just held the sample pot in my hand for a 1-2 minutes and it was way easier to get out. It might not be as easy in a full size container.

Overall, I would say I am developing a little crush on this brand.
I have my eye on the Lip balms (Between R7-R13 each) on their website (there are so many) and I also have my eye on their Eczema balm (R55) as my mom suffers from terrible eczema.

Check out this great review that Chicara from Lipgloss Kisses did a few weeks ago.
Visit Bee Natural's website and Online store.

Your thoughts?

Miss Claira-Bella

Xoxo

In my sample basket - Elizabeth Arden

I cannot resist picking up free samples whenever I see any, but my problem is, I seldomly actually use/sample them. Ridiculous, I know! So to get my ass motivated and try my sample goodies out (that I have very carefully dumped into a basket), I am going to start a new section/category called "In my sample basket". I will take one sample out every week, test it out and comment on what I thought and if I would buy the full size.

My Sample Basket

To crack this new category off with a bang, I will start with my Elizabeth Arden 8 hour sun defense for face, SPF 50 Sunscreen PA+++, sample.

My 15g sample

I am quite a fan of the few Elizabeth Arden products that I have. I wish I could have tons more but their prices are just not compatible with my almost-non-existent monthly beauty budget. Lets see if this product gives me the temptation to splurge.

What it does:

 "Think of everything you love about our legendary Eight Hour® Cream Skin Protectant. Now add in powerful sun protection with SPF 50." Source

It is a lightweight, oil-free SPF 50 lotion, hydrates your skin for up to 8 hours and helps shield your skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays that can cause sunburn, surface skin cell damage and premature signs of aging. Suitable for all skin types, PABA-free and even has the Skin Cancer Foundation Seal of Approval.

The lotion

What I loved

It's super lightweight on the skin. It really isn't like regular sunscreen, that makes you sweat because it's so thick and your skin can't breathe. It also absorbs into the skin fast. I put it on, wait 3min and I can immediately put my makeup over the lotion. The last thing, I love that it doesn't have the scent of your typical sunscreen. 

My dislikes

No dislikes whatsoever :)

Full size RSP R185.00

Our beauty relationship will probably carry on in the near future. I was expecting to feel like I was on the beach with sweaty skin, smelling of lotion and having white streaks on my face where the sunscreen doesn't want to absorb. I was pleasantly surprised that all my expectations were trashed and replaced with great results.
It's such a brilliant product to use every day, knowing you'll have a high UV protection as well as the amazing benefits of the 8 hour skin protectant, is something all ladies yearn for when we live in the African sun and harsh climate.

To locate your nearest Elizabeth Arden stockist, visit their website here.

Who has the full size of this product? Have you been using it?
Till next week! TTFN

Miss Claira-Bella

Xoxo