'Thankyou' the beauty of a social conscience

 Last year this brand name went viral. All over facebook were pleas for the major supermarkets to agree stock 'thankyou' products. Thankfully they did. For two reasons: 1. My feed is now back to dog memes... just the way I like it. 2. This awesome brand is now stocked at your local. 

And what does this have to do with beauty you say??? Well, the make a delicious hand soap- with a difference. 

The people at Thankyou realize something incredible.
Humans are the worlds greatest resource. Not coal, not oil, not gold. Look around, every advancement of civilization can be pinned down to the human brain and human spirit. What then begins to make sense is that if I am a human, lucky enough to be living in privilege that I could share my resource and maybe help another less fortunate than I.
But wait....We live in a concrete jungle, we're busy, we don't want to commit to 'a dollar a day' and ultimately we are living a selfish existence. We can't change the world from our iPhones. 

What we can do is continue our consumer driven lives with one change... Just add water...

Thankyou started as 'a bottled water company that would exist for the sole purpose of funding safe water projects in developing nations'. They've now extended the range to include muesli and a body range of hand-wash that support food aide and hygiene projects in developing nations.

I wanted to share a hand wash review because its DELIGHTFUL! 

I purchased Thankyou hand wash in Tonka bean & spring flowers from my local Coles. It was $6.95 or $7.95- I cant recall exactly. ball park.

To state the obvious, the packaging is really nice & suits the product to a tee. It's also a HUGE 500ml making it great value. 

The smell: of the product is subtle, it has a fresh, soft, orange oil fragrance that is not overpowering. I'd describe it as also having a 'natural' smell. When I say that, I don't mean grass and chia seeds... I just mean its not a fake passion fruit smell like other similar products on the market. If in doubt by my rambling descriptors...its fresh.

The texture: of the wash is really smooth and velvety, maybe creamy? It doesn't have a big lathery foam just a soft subtle bubble.

To Love: I really appreciate the commitment to no nasties! Below is the back label, a list as long as your arm of all the yucky crap in other products... but not this one.

Also awesome:  you can 'track your impact'. This particular bottle contributed to a hygiene training in a small Indian village. It's really meaningful to not just know that a contribution is made, but to also know where. I really think this feature is ace.

The other good points: Vegan (if that's what your into), Made in Oz & no animal testing.

So all in all: I will certainly be buying this product again and I would definitely recommend to family and friends. 4.5/5. go get you some...

Warm & fuzzy:

By adding a few items to your grocery list or swapping out the brand you normally use, a sharing of resources can happen. Thankyou make it incredibly easy to give back and help global communities in need.

Here's a link for 'Where to Buy'

Please note, I personally purchased my thankyou handsoap. I have no affiliation with the organisation. My opinion is my own.


Have you tried Thankyou Hand Wash? What do you think?

Bellabox January 2014 Review

Definition: Bellabox is a $15 'beauty discovery' subscription box delivered monthly. It is available to Australian residents.   

Its that day, BELLABOX day! 
This is the first Bellabox of 2014> the January box. I've been really lucky, my box is somehow in the first rounds this month and I must say my box usually comes in the first run from the BB warehouse. I received this box on the 16th Jan. Some members seem to get theirs a little later in the month but perhaps this is region based & also the quantity being sent I'd say can't be done by the DC in one hit. In any case sometimes a little suspense is good for us! 

This months box comes in a brown carton box with Bellabox on top, BB iconic dots on edges & the 'inspo' quote "be beautiful, surprise yourself" - don't mind if I do. 

From the pics you can see it comes packaged nicely with tissue wrap & the contents are tessellated neatly & front faced inside the box. This may not seem significant to everyone but the small attention to detail makes it feel special to open.  Imagine if it was all turfed in with little care... Like when someone gives you a card, in a newsagent bag. Bellabox really respect the customer with this tiny detail. 

Now for the contents...

1. Model Co 'Fat Lash' Mascara (full size) 

2. Avène Hydrance optimal Riche, Rich Hydrating Cream (5ml) 

3. Avène Smoothing Moisture Mask (5ml) 

4. Evo 'the therapist' calming shampoo (50ml) 

5. Evo 'the therapist' calming conditioner (50ml) 

6. Palmolive Ayrurituel joyous shower gel- Indian mulberry & lotus flower (50ml)

7. Coconut Revolution Coconut Body Cream (50gm) 

Lastly Bellabox often do a sachet deemed 'bonus product' I'd imagine this is it:

8. Egyptian Magic all purpose skin cream (3ml)

Note: the box also normally comes with a product card that details rrrp & use etc, mine was missing but I have contacted Bellabox & I am confident they will email me the details so I can share it with you! This card is really handy as it provides a blurb for each product- I think of it as a little beauty map for navigating the box each month!

More info  please? 

1. Model Co 'Fat Lash' Mascara (full size) 

I am a mascara junkie, so this is an item I'm looking forward to using! I'm going to say it, it's for me the HIGHLIGHT of this months Bellabox. Mascara is probably one of the first things I routinely used growing up. If I'm not wearing mascara, I may as well not be wearing pants.

They say: The non-drying, non-flaking formula instantly gives lashes a fuller and thicker feeling and appearance.

for instructions on how to use this beauty click here

2. Avène Hydrance optimal Riche, Rich Hydrating Cream (5ml)

I have combo skin so at first I was a bit scared by the word Rich (code for breakout and oil in my mind) BUT I've been finding using a higher density cream at night super nourishing lately. I've tried Avène in the past and was really happy with their quality, texture and result.

They say: A hydrated skin promises a healthier-looking skin. Avène Hydrance Optimale Rich Hydrating Cream is a potent daily moisturiser that is suitable for day and night usage. Its gentle yet luscious texture makes sure your skin’s natural moisture content is restored and boosted for prime hydration and skin radiance.

3. Avène Smoothing Moisture Mask (5ml) 

I aim to do a mask once a week, its really important to take time out to do things that make you feel refreshed! It doesn't hurt that its also good for your skin. Masks are usually super charged with potent ingredients and depending on the mask it can be like giving your skin a feed, a drink or a detox! I like that this one is preservative free.

They say: Avène Soothing Moisture Mask provides extensive hydration with its lush and creamy essence that is non-setting and calming for sensitive skin at the same time. Looking for a fuss-free, instant skin soothing and firming solution for an impromptu event? This preservative-free mask will give you the beauty radiance you need to stand out in the crowd.

4. Evo 'the therapist' calming shampoo (50ml) 

I love all things beauty related but Shampoo doesn't excite me. I have occasional psoriasis of the scalp so I find some products irritate. Testing a new shampoo comes with hesitation. That said I look forward to trying this one as it is sulphate free which is always a good start for those with allergies.

They say: Calm and soothe your hair-y nerves away with evo the therapist calming shampoo. Formulated with Glycerin and Argan Oil to moisturise, and Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein to repair and fortify each strand, this cleansing shampoo is the perfect solution for dull-looking and coloured tresses. It is sulphate-free.

5. Evo 'the therapist' calming conditioner (50ml) 

First impression: looks nice and rich. I like a thick (really thick) paste of a conditioner. Remember folks> just on the ends.. you don't want a greasy scalp! They say this is full of Humectants, this is good. Humectants are hydrophilic meaning the love water, they are moisture binding which is a win for dry ends.

They say: Manage your mane better with evo the therapist calming conditioner, a hydrating conditioner that helps to improve the state of parched, frizzy and coloured hair. Glycerin and Argan Oil locks in moisture into each strand, while Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein conditions, strengthens and protects the strands for a fuller and healthier-looking mane!

6. Palmolive Ayrurituel joyous shower gel- Indian mulberry & lotus flower (50ml) THIS SMELLS AMAZING!

My inner hippy rejoices! Ayurveda or Ayurvedic medicine is a system of traditional medicine native to India, which uses a range of treatments, including  herbal medicine, to encourage health and wellbeing. The name of this suggests a nod to this system. The slogan is 'find your sanctuary'. When I'm tired, stressed, grouchy... all of the above, I really find having a refreshing shower with nothing but a few candles for light really relaxing and restoring. The great thing about this is that its perfect for when you feel you have 'no time'. Little practices like this are a great way of turning an everyday given into a liddle slice of heaven.

They say: Cleanse your skin and refresh your mind with Palmolive Ayurituel Shower Gel. Motivated by ancient Indian Ayurvedic traditions, this shower gel contains three types of aromatic scent to stimulate and rejuvenate your senses. Palmolive Ayurituel, Joyous is a mix of Indian Mulberry and Lotus flower for a natural, calming scent.

7. Coconut Revolution Coconut Body Cream (50gm) 

Maybe it's summers fault... I'm really having a coconut moment! My first impression is a good one. This product smells delicious and is super rich and creamy. I'm going to test run this after a trip to the beach to really rehydrate my skin.  

They say: Start a skin revolution – demand softer and smoother skin with Coconut Revolution Body Cream. This rich, hydrating body cream is formulated with cold-pressed Virgin Coconut Oil for a silky smooth and firm skin from top to bottom! Filtered three times to ensure that the Coconut Oil is clear of impurities during production, this nutrient-rich power ingredient will keep your skin supple and luxurious with just one application.

8. Egyptian Magic all purpose skin cream (3ml)

It's always good to have a go to multi purpose cream or ointment.  I like kosmea rescue balm and Elizabeth Arden 8 hour cream. Another cult classic is Lucas Paw Paw ointment. I'm looking forward to seeing what this one is like too and how it stacks up with my faves.

They say:
This cream formulated from olive oil, beeswax, bee pollen, royal jelly and honey is based on a skincare remedy of the Egyptian Queen Cleopatra, and is recommended today by top makeup artists, dermatologists and plastic surgeons. It truly is a an all-in-one skincare ointment that can be used for every day moisture, as well as a treatment for scars, stretch marks, burns, rashes, chapped lips, shaving balm and as a makeup primer! Gentle enough for bubs, effective enough for adults! Get ready to have a new lease on the skin you've been given!

For Ten ways to use it go HERE

Value: 

Ok so sometimes our fellow Bella's have beef about the value in the box. I challenge anyone who says its a rip off. I'd like to debunk the rip myth by giving the pro rata price of each sample and see where we end up!

1. Model Co 'Fat Lash' Mascara (full size) $20

2. Avène Hydrance optimal Riche, Rich Hydrating Cream (5ml) $6.61

3. Avène Smoothing Moisture Mask (5ml) $4.19

4. Evo 'the therapist' calming shampoo (50ml) $4.99

5. Evo 'the therapist' calming conditioner (50ml) $4.99

6. Palmolive Ayrurituel joyous shower gel- Indian mulberry & lotus flower (50ml) $0.85

7. Coconut Revolution Coconut Body Cream (50gm) $4.99

8. Egyptian Magic all purpose skin cream (3ml) $1.24

Box total value: $47.86

Cost to me: $15

with that shown, I am HAPPY & SATISFIED!

The Jan 2014 Bellabox sold out! If you wanna join (if you ask me, you should) I've provided a link here

Please note: I subscribe to Bellabox on my own accord. This is NOT a sponsored blog. My opinion is my own.
What was in your Bellabox? What was your highlight? Are you keen to join? Any Q's? Comment below!

Feel free to subscribe to my blog for other pretty liddle reviews and beauty posts! 

So wrong So right! 5 things I love but don't wanna tell everyone!

Don't wanna tell everyone, pftt cept the world, on a blog, on the net...

Have you ever love love loved a beauty product but maybe felt ashamed or embarrassed because it was disgustingly cheap, uber tacky, has bad press or maybe is branded by a celebrity who potentially is cringe worthy? Like a moth to the flame people ALWAYS ask you about it... 

Here's a fun list of 5 products I love (no shame) (or maybe just a teense)

1. Britney Spears 'Curious'- 

Ok so I really like the scent, it works for my body chemistry... Pretty much works so well that EVERY SINGLE TIME I wear this, someone asks what I'm wearing. I then have to run the gauntlet explaining away how I'm not a 28 year old teeny bopper dreaming of being 'hit one more time' whilst wearing a plaid skirt. I just like the key notes that I seem to find as repeat offenders in my fragrance wardrobe: pear, jasmine,musk & vanilla. Apparently it's aimed at 'a twenty something with attitude' hmmm the shoe fits but it's hurting my toes! 

2. Playboy 'play it sexy' body spray 

This is just a great little handy on the go spritz! It's cheap as chips from the supermarket or Priceline... I love that it's light weight, smells clean and fresh and won't leak in my gym/handbag. Once upon a time I loved the tv series 'girls next door' ...what I don't love is when the accountant at work quips 'aren't you a little old for playboy stuff Em? Maybe playboy should come out with anti-wrinkle cream... Just for me. 

3. Ulta3 Matte lipstick in 'harem pink' 

This is just the PERFECT shade! I can't decide if it's blue or yellow based- it's neither and both and it's amazing! It gives you such a freshen up and at $3.95  from the chemist, how could I say no! 

The thing is, theres nothing like that luxe feeling you get when you swipe your favorite prestige lipstick across your lips...( Napoleon Hara & Clinique Waterviolet , I'm looking at you ) the glam, the pretty, the watch me storm the second half of this day kind of vibe. Because this lipstick is so great, texture, staying power, pigment- the works, you still get that vibe that only a pretty pout can create & at $3.95 from the chemist right next to the paracetamol...it's like winning the beauty lottery!! Do you tell anyone & risk a harem of pink lipstick wearing friends and acquaintances or do you keep it quiet and enjoy your winnings???

4. Daisy Ring 

No, it's not Marc Jacobs. Sorry. 

I have this cute little daisy ring that I got for penny's on eBay.  I'm so happy to share this one because there's something exciting about something that seems less obtainable becoming open to all! Anyway this isn't a copy, not a fake, I think it's just a coincidence that Jacobs has a fragrance with a pretty daisy on the bottle and people make that connection (good branding Marc). When I wear this people often ask me with this oo oooh hopeful tone, 'is that Marc Jacobs?' We'll um no, but you can have the rest of my milk... The last time was a check out chic- she seemed crushed that it wasn't designer... I optimistically told her she could easily get one and for less than a fiver! 'Its not the same thing'... Um ok way to make me feel like a phony for wearing a not fake, fake ring lol! 

5. Lime Nail polish

So who's with me and totally went for the citron trend? The whole shebang! Hair ties, drink bottle, pj's, a scarf, a rug, 4 singlets, a blouse, a blazer & a key chain...Have mercy I Love citron! My girlfriends can attest to this! When I was a teen I even had a creamy pastel citron feature wall in my room- chocolate floor boards and white accents, it was fresh! Some things never change and my love of citron really reached it's peak- Nail Polish. My partner was horrified (he only just got used to the white i'd been wearing) my boss visibly cringed, a friend perplexingly asked green or yellow? Ok, so now this is just beauty shaming!! There I was feeling fresh, on trend and fab! Alas some things do change and this hue has now been relegated to toes only! 

(nail polish is essence for those wondering)

Do you have a beauty LOVE that may have stigma but it's so wrong it's so right?! Share it below in the comments section! I'd love to hear about it!