| REVIEW | Essence 24hr Hand Protection Balm | Winter Edition |

Winter 2013 has less than 1 week left in Australia! 

Whilst browsing the Essence stand at my local Target a few months back I came across the Essence Winter Edition 24hr hand protection balm. The packaging initially lured me closer, but as soon as I was able to read the scents.........

Caramel Hot Chocolate.......Gingerbreak Chai Latte.......Apple Cinnamon Punch! 

 I had to buy ALL three!

The Essence 24hr hand protection balm is an intensive repair care for particularly rough and dry hands. The repair formula with shea butter and coconut oil provides moisture and care and protects your hands from dryness for up to 24hrs. It also does not leave an oily residue on your hands either. Bonus!

My personal favourite by a hop-skip-jump is the Apple Cinnamon Punch. I am a sucker for cinnamon in the cooler months, on my morning porridge, when craving hot cinnamon donuts, baking Apple Cinnamon Teacake, and in my beauty products! 

Apple Cinnamon Punch is the sweetest scent of all three available. So, if this isn't for you, perhaps try the Caramel Hot Chocolate for a luxurious sweetness or the Gingerbread Chai Latte for something more spicy and aromatic.

Size / Amount: 75ml

Packaging: 

Colourful and practical packaging! I love the deliciously tempting food illustrations on the tube. Small enough to keep in your handbag for daily use. Yet, big enough, leaving NO need to ration the product so it lasts you longer. Secure "click" closure ensures no leakage.

RRP: AUD$1.99 (available at Priceline / Target).

Ingredients:

Aqua (water), cocos nucifera (coconut) oil, butyrospermum, parkii (shea butter), cetearyl alcohol, stearic acid, petrolatum, glycerin, glyceryl stearate, PEG-100 stearate, ceteareth-20, magnesium sulfate, polyacrylic acid, disodium edta, PEG-8, tocopherol, ascorbyl palmitate, citric acid, ascorbic acid, sodium hydroxide, phenoxyethanol, methylparaben, ethylparaben, parfum (fragrance), benzyl salicylate, coumarin, eugenol, limonene, linalool.

Pro's:

• Deliciously scented
• You get to choose from 3 scents
• Cute packaging
• Ultra-hydrating hand balm
• No sticky residue
• Secure "click" closure
• Size. Compact enough to carry in your handbag for daily use
• CHEAP price point!

Con's:

• Availability - I didn't spot the range on many Essence displays
• Slightly off-putting list of ingrediants. BUT this product does not claim to be either Organic or Paraben-free, so I can deal with it.  
• Would love to have more scent varieties in the range.

The Verdict: 

The Essence 24hr hand protection balms do what they claim on their ever-so-darling- packaging! They are very hydrating, offer a delicious scent that lingers, and are inexpensive at under AUD$2 each!

The hand balms recently made great gifts for that 'extra little something' to put in a birthday present for some of my girlfriends. 

All in all, a fun product to sit on your bedside table and lather onto your hands, morning or night. Smells divine! I do hope that Essence release a Spring OR Summer range of the 24hr hand protection balms. Just imagine some of the beautifully fresh scents they could create!

Rating: ★★★/ 5

Have you tried Essence's 24hr Hand Protection Balms?

What scents would you LOVE to try in an upcoming Spring or Summer collection?



(International readers, not sure if this was a 2012 release OR upcoming 2013 winter. Let me know in the comments section below).



Take care,


x.k

* These products were purchased with my own money. All thoughts and opinions are completely my own, and are always 100% honest & unbiased. Thank you!

| Fanciful Friday | Retro Vintage Cosmetics Advertising

ret·ro 

/ˈretrō/

Adjective

Imitative of a style, fashion, or design from the recent past: "retro 60s fashions".

Noun

Clothes or music whose style or design is imitative of those of the recent past.

Who wouldn't want GOLD lipstick! It still amazes me at how the trends change overtime. 

I hope you enjoyed today's post! 

Happy Fanciful Friday

Tonight, I am attending the muk Haircare MEDIA LAUNCH of their NEW muk Spa Repair Range of products and the revolutionary muk Style Stick 230-IR. I cannot wait to hear from & meet Mark Gariglio, Director of muk Haircare! Part of the team behind this successful Australian brand. 

So ladies, expect to hear ALL about my night in an upcoming blog post. BUT I will also be posting LIVE from the event via Instagram & Twitter! So keep in touch :)

You can find me on both platforms under @profound_feline

 Put a little glamour into your weekend 

x.k

| REVIEW | The NEW RosehipPLUS Pure & Natural Rosehip Oil "skin boost" Roll-On |

NEW PRODUCT! Announcing the Rosehip Specialists’™ newest addition to the RosehipPLUS™ range! RosehipPLUS™ Skin Boost Roll-On is the first Australian Certified Organic Cold Pressed Rosehip Oil Roll-On that delivers precision application of the purest Rosehip Oil to fine lines and wrinkles, even while you are on the run! 

Sound perfect? Then keep reading ahead for my review :)

RosehipPLUS™ Skin Boost Roll-On Rosehip Oil is cold pressed and extracted without using heat, solvents or chemicals, maintaining the potency of the organic Rosehip ingredients for maximum efficacy. A super fine filtering process guarantees its purity to produce the finest quality Rosehip Oil on the market.

RosehipPLUS™ Skin Boost Rosehip Oil helps:

 Reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scars

 Maintain skin hydration and softness

 Improve the appearance of dry and sensitive skin

 Minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

 Promote skin elasticity and texture

Directions: 

When using the RosehipPLUS™ Rosehip Oil Skin Boost Roll-On, hold the applicator between your fingers carefully placing the rollerball on the area you are concerned about. Gently move the applicator so that the rollerball leaves a fine layer of Rosehip Oil on the skin. If applying to a scar, make sure the wound has healed first. Never apply to broken skin. Suitable for all skin types.

Ingredients:

RosehipPLUS™ Skin Boost Roll-On Rosehip Oil contains naturally occurring Bioflavonoids which are vitamin-like substances (Anti-Ageing Vitamins A and C; Anti-inflammatory Vitamin E) which act as potent anti-oxidants, helping to reduce free radical damage in the skin and thereby helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. The essential fatty acids, (Omega 3, 6 & 9) in the Oil help to keep the skin hydrated, moisturised and younger looking. RosehipPLUS Rosehip Oil is 100% pure, natural and Australian Certified Organic.

Size / Amount: 15ml

Packaging: 

RosehipPLUS™ Skin Boost Roll-On, with its massaging roller ball applicator, allows you to target specific areas that require precise application of the Rosehip Oil, such as around the delicate eye area and lip area, on small dry patches and even on scarring.

The hygienic hand-held roll-on delivery system ensures that the RosehipPLUS™ Skin Boost Roll-On Rosehip Oil is applied exactly where you want it without any messy application. 

Perfect for the handbag or for a beauty treatment in a flash!

RRP: AUD $14.95



Availability:

Currently from all leading Pharmacies and Health Food Stores.

For more information about the Rosehip Specialists visit: http://www.rosehipplus.com.au/or

Phone: 1800 851 888

Pro's:

• Australian family owned business
• 100% pure, natural, and Australian Certified Organic
• Quick absorbing formula
• Bleach, colour, and fragrance FREE
• No sticky residue left on the skin
• Cooling & massaging roller-ball applicator refreshes the under eye area
• Sleek / sturdy packaging
• Ingenious product application design
• Readily available in stores Australia-wide and online
• Handbag friendly size for on-the-go use / perfect for travel.

Con's:

• I can't fault it!

The Verdict:

RosehipPLUS™ Skin Boost Roll-On is a great product for many skin types and skin issues. I have combination skin and have found it works wonders on tackling dry skin areas on my face, particularly around my nose in the winter time. Even application to dry skin on my elbows and cuticles has shown hydrating results!

The Rosehip Oil is gentle enough to apply on sensitive skin areas such as around the eyes. The cool to touch massaging roller-ball is a refreshing boost when applied gently under the eyes in a 'rocking-motion'. I've found the RosehipPLUS™ Skin Boost Roll-On is an ingenious and user friendly product that you can use and feel confident in visible results. A big thumbs up!

                                                                Rating: ★★★★★ / 5

                           
                           

Have you tried Rosehip Oil in your beauty routine before?

This is my 100th post here on Profound Feline and I just wanted to say a heartfelt thank you to YOU, the reader. Without your beautiful comments and words of encouragement, I am not sure Profound Feline would still be here today. So, BIG HUGS from my house to your house! 

Take care,

x.k

* I was kindly sent this product for review. Accepting a product for consideration does not guarantee a feature. All thoughts and opinions are completely my own, and are always 100% honest & unbiased. Any sponsored or affiliate links will be clearly stated. Thank you!

| REVIEW | Arbonne RE9 Advanced Night Repair Creme |

RE9 Advanced® Night Repair Crème

Unveil the sleeping beauty within with Arbonne’s RE9 Advanced Night Repair Crème. This ultra-hydrating blend of botanicals and concentrated vitamin C supports collagen and helps to restore a youthful appearance while you sleep.

RE9 Advanced Night Repair Crème is part of the RE9 Advanced comprehensive, botanically based product range that addresses anti-ageing concerns. 

RE9 advanced synergises not one, but 9 major age-defying elements and botanicals in a powerful system of products clinically proven to start working in 24 hours. The RE9 Advanced approach addresses skin health by pairing topical products with an age-defying supplement that accelerates results twice as fast, based on a clinical study, claims Arbonne.

• Botanically based
• Allergy tested
• Dermatologist tested
• Clinically proven
• Formulated without gluten
• Formulated without parabens
• Formulated without formaldehyde-donating preservatives
• Vegan formula

Benefits:

• Dramatically reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Works overnight to provide soft, supple glowing skin
• Delivers healthy, younger-looking skin

The RE9 Advanced skin care line is for those with anti-aging concerns. Although I am a beauty blogger and all around beauty enthusiast, I am under no illusion that skin WILL age and NO cream or potion can stop aging. Instead, I opt for products that are gentle on my skin, remove ALL traces of daily makeup and MOST importantly do no irritate or cause skin breakouts.

Key Ingredients: 

Algae extract, marine lavender extract, beech tree bud extract, peptides.

Size / Amount: 30ml

Packaging: 

The RE9 Advanced range of skin care comes in distinctive and eye catching burnt orange coloured packaging with gold detailing. At 30ml in size, it is on the smaller size in comparison to other night creams I have in my collection, but this makes it perfect for travel. 

Ease of use packaging, having twist top access to the product. I also loved the little plastic scoop that is provided with the cream, keeping everything sanitary (a must when you are using products on your face).

RRP: $121.00


Availability:

www.arbonneinternational.com.au  1800 650 760  www.facebook.com/arbonneAU

Pro's:

• 100% cruelty FREE brand
• Paraben and gluten FREE
• Vegan friendly
• Botanical focus
• No sticky residue
• Ultra-hydrating, with a "plumping" feel
• Fresh & floral scent
• Allergy & dermatologist tested
• Attractive look packaging
• High end quality feel
• Perfect travel size product

Con's:

• Availability (not readily available in stores)
• Smaller amount of product (30ml)
• High price point

The Verdict:

Arbonne's RE9 Advanced Night Repair Creme is a truly amazing product! It is by far the most luxurious night cream I have ever used. I used it nightly for over 6 weeks and my skin is thanking me for it! 

The Night Repair Creme is beautifully thick, without being greasy. If you are like me, having combination skin has always made me cautious when using a more hydrating 'night cream'. Instead, Arbonne's cream left my skin feeling softer, firmer and decidedly "plump" upon waking the next day. The Night Repair Creme is the MOST expensive of Arbonne's RE9 line, but also one of the best! 

Wrinkles are unfortunately likely in our future, that is why I LOVE discovering a fantastic NEW product that actually works to help my skin age the best it can! Full of lush botanicals, vitamin C and a heavenly fresh & floral scent, Arbonne's RE9 Advanced Night Repair Creme is a dream to apply and a pleasure to use. 

                                                                Rating: ★★★★★/ 5

Have you tried any Arbonne products that you would recommend to your friends?

What are your secrets to hyrdrated skin?

Take care,

x.k

* I was kindly sent this product for review. Accepting a product for consideration does not guarantee a feature. All thoughts and opinions are completely my own, and are always 100% honest & unbiased. Any sponsored or affiliate links will be clearly stated. Thank you!

| Birthday Week | Part 4 | SPINOFF FESTIVAL Adelaide | Food Adventures | Onyx Dessert Lounge |

Hi everyone,

Well and truly by now you would know it was my BIRTHDAY recently, and with that I wanted to share the fun I had! This is the FINAL Part 4. I hope you have enjoyed a look into what I got up to for my birthday!

Mr W and I attended the SPINOFF FESTIVAL in Adelaide. What a wonderful present!

It was a HUGE day for us (especially me, the biggest newbie to festivals!) We got there at 3:30pm and it finished up around 11:30pm with Of Monsters & Men as the final act of the night. It was an amazing day!

Below, Of Monsters & Men all the way from Iceland to Adelaide, South Australia!

The aftermath of the dirty alcohol sodden and messy floor at Thebarton Theater. Snakadaktal, another band of young Australian singers that were some of my favourites of the festival! Their music is so chilled and ethereal. Mr W and I with an impressive shot taken in almost darkness :)

After being so indecisive about what to do for my birthday with friends this year, I finally decided upon a dessert lounge. There definitely is NO lack of choice for dessert bars in Adelaide of late. 

I made a booking for 12 of my favourite people at Onyx Dessert Lounge in North Adelaide on O'Connell Street. 

The lounges decor was relaxing, with pops of colour and subtle lighting. On the night Amy Whinehouse tunes filled the lounge, creating a chilled atmosphere for coffee, cocktails and desserts. 

The menu's were presented on a nifty tablet that we passed around our group of 12 (it would have been to have a few more though) Apart from that, it was a fun, creative, and interactive talking point for all. 

I ordered a latte that arrived in a unique gold cup, cube of brown sugar and tasty gooey centered chocolate included. Costing $5 I thought this was great!

Dessert time!

Chocolate Peanut Fondant with Salted Caramel Ice cream

A mouth-watering and intense chocolate experience to say the very least. Almost half of our group chose this dessert, as it came highly recommended by our waiter.

My favourite aspects of the dessert were the crunchy roasted peanuts and salted caramel crumb that lay beneath the ice-cream. I highly recommned this dessert when visiting Onyx Dessert Lounge. Cost $17. 

The Espresso Martini is also worth trying if you're a coffee lover! Cost $18.

My initial reaction to realising it was nearing my birthday this year was something like this!

BUT..........

I can honestly say that my birthday this year was one of my most special in memory! 

I am gradually coming to terms with getting another year older the wiser. 

Putting any negativity aside now :) What do MOST love about Birthdays?


Thank you for hanging in there & sharing in my FINAL Birthday Week Part 4 post! 

Take care,

x.k

| Birthday Week | Part 3 | Balloons + Birthday Dinner & more Cake |

Hi everyone,

LIFE UPDATE! It is obvious from my inundation of BIRTHDAY posts of late, that it was recently my birthday on August 1st. I really wanted to share with you the fun I got up to in my stretched out, week-long celebrations! :) So, here is Part 3.

Don't fret though, I have an number of beauty posts ready to go up too!

I really do have the sweetest housemate that ever lived. This is the scene I woke up to on the morning of my birthday, I was smiling from ear to ear :)

She already knows my obsession with cupcakes, chocolate and bright colours.

I adored the colour of these flowers! I love the vibrant coral of the petals.

I had been craving a delicious juicy steak for a while now, so I lashed out getting a Scotch Fillet with Mushroom Sauce! Of course it helped that it was 1/2 price steak night. Yes! Mr W agreed, the fries were pure perfection, super-crunchy on the outer and fluffy on the inside. 

What is a birthday without cake? I just couldn't resist sharing a piece of Lemon Cheesecake! I am known for not having the sweetest tooth, but a tarty Lemon Cheesecake is my idea of heaven in dessert. We even got the first slice from the cake, so it was super moist yummy! (I dislike that word).

His, hot chocolate. Hers, latte.

A perfect slice!

Thanks for sharing in my Birthday Week Part 3 post! 

What are your food indulgences?

Take care,

x.k

| Birthday Week | Part 2 | Food Adventures | Lunch at The House of Donkey |

Hi everyone,

LIFE UPDATE! It was my BIRTHDAY last week on August 1st (the horse's birthday) I really wanted to share with you the fun I got up to in my week-long celebrations! This is Part 2. I hope you enjoy it! 

On the actual day of my birthday I organised to meet a girlfriend for lunch at The House of Donkey on Sturt Street in Adelaide's CBD. My friend had previously enjoyed a few lunches here, and recommended it would be perfect for a quick bite to eat on my birthday. Spot on Nicole!

The House of Donkey may have an unassuming shop front but the interior is quaint and oh so relaxing. I felt like I was being entertained in someones home. I loved it! Almost like a little escape where you feel welcomed and can sip away your coffee, soaking in the relaxed atmosphere. 

There is also a lovely little bohemian style garden at the rear of the building where you can enjoy some sunshine on a mixture of tables, pillows, and milk crates. I can't wait to enjoy a sunny day in the garden, will definitely be back soon!

I absolutely FELL IN LOVE with the decor at The House of Donkey. I had to take the obligatory picture of the Donkey mural, too too cute!

Bright colours for the Birthday Girl!

Behind me on the wall is a blackboard with the daily specials menu. It is short, maybe 6-8 to choose from. But ALL of which sounded tasty, to my liking, and affordable to boot!

I ordered the Cheeseburger with a Lentil and Potato Patty! Being a meat eater myself, I wasn't sure if this burger would be mouthwatering enough, boy was I wrong. The flavours were fantastic. The patty was thick and abundant and the vegetables crisp and bursting with flavour. Yum yum!

Oozy cheese and pickle close up! I loved the tangy pickle addition, it made the burger.

My friend decided upon the Scrambled Tofu with Spinach, Roasted Tomatoes and Sourdough. Tasty!

Tucking in! Mid way. We enjoyed our plush & pillowed window seats. The room was filled with natural light. Look at the little donkeys on the windowsill. Gah - the cuteness!

What would a birthday be without cake? Chocolate Lavender Brownie Cake! Chocolate overload, just the way I like it! Not overly sweet, but intense cacao. We couldn't finish it all due to time constraints so I sneaked it out. Never leave a brownie behind, NEVER!

The House of DONKEY. Love.

Thanks for sharing in my Birthday Week Part 2 post! 

What are your favourite places for a quick lunch or coffee catch-up with friends in Adelaide?

I love getting recommendations from other foodie lovers :)

Take care,

x.k