Thursday, July 7, 2011

Thrifty Thursday: Beauty products that don’t cost an arm and well heeled (shaved, toned, tanned) leg

Firstly, I’d just like to say that I do indeed adore the chic packaging of a Chanel lipstick and the delectable scent of a Diptyque candle as much as the next mauve manicured girl sitting next to me but there are certain times in a girl's life when only bargain buys will do.
Certain times example:
Receiving a $120.00 parking ticket, while on a coffee run, for stoping in a “NO PARKING BEFORE 9AM ZONE” at 8:45am last Friday morning. Great huh? Certainly put me in a delightful mood for the weekend (sorry, I know sarcasm is bad for wrinkles). However it did make me reflect on my spending habits and I realised that a few of my absolute favourite beauty purchases are actually very affordable. So I have decided to share ...


BYS Bronzer with Ripple Pattern
 This tri-coloured bronzer contains warm, golden and bronzed shades with a unique ripple pattern. I actually only use this product for highlighting as I have a tendency to develop an oil slick for a face in summer (ok I’m being kind, sometimes in winter too) and it would be far too shimmery for normal bronzing/contouring. It looks simply divine dusted on top of cheekbones or swirled on the brow bone. The disc of “bronzer” contains three shades moving from light to dark and these colours can be blended to achieve a multitude of looks or can be used alone depending on how your tan develops throughout the year.  Available in Light Shine and Heavy Glow.
RRP $7.95 Available at Kmart, Gloss Accessories, Cosmetics Plus, Ice Accessories, selected pharmacies, discount stores & independent retailers.

Suvana Paw Paw and Honey Certified Organic Lipbalm
Whoaaaa this prod is Cracked Lip Heaven. Not only is this super lush balm organic but it contains absolutely ZERO petroleum jelly, synthetic preservatives, chemicals and fragrances. In addition, the two key ingredients Paw Paw and Honey are well known natural healing actives. Also working hard to soothe your poor chapped smackers are delicious Cocoa Butter and Vitamin E which help to soften and moisten flakey lips.
RRP $8.95 I got mine from a Go Vita health food store after searching Priceline and many chemists so I would guess health food stores are they way to go if you’re interested in purchasing this bright yellow balm – very helpful for locating it in my overflowing handbag! PS It smells like honey, nom nom.


Manicare Perfume Atomiser  
This one is pretty self explanatory ... Manicare Perfume Atomiser is a convenient purse-size refillable perfume atomiser that keeps fragrances fresh and ready to apply at any time. I like the 80s style glass and gold design as it reminds me of some of my grandmothers old scents I used to borrow as a little girl. This atomiser is the perfect size for travel and every-day-handbag-use.
RRP $11.95  Available at Priceline, Myer, Target, K-Mart, Big W and leading pharmacies.



Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Leg Gloss
I was first introduced to this multi use prod by my friend Amanda while getting ready for a night out with the gals and might I just say this is sooo much more than a sparkly moisturiser. Yes, yes, Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Leg Gloss contains pure cocoa butter and vitamin E to moisturise deeply however it also boasts ultra-fine light reflecting particles to impart a subtle sheen, while a slight tint helps mask imperfections and acts kind of like a body foundation. I worship this product because I have a few scars on my knees and shins from years of nippers, netball, hockey and skateboarding and this leg gloss actually conceals imperfections while adding a healthy dose of colour.
Note: This is not a fake tan or gradual tan! You can wash it right off like makeup. I usually mix it with my normal body moisturiser as this makes it easier to apply and not as obvious as it does dry quite quickly and if you’re not careful it can look slightly uneven and streaky.
RRP $10.99  Available at Priceline, Target, Kmart, Big W, Price Attack, Hairhouse Warehouse, pharmacies and supermarkets.  


MOR Dolce Candle in Honey
I’m not the best sleeper and therefore usually have to read in bed each night in order to become sleepy enough for slumber. This being the case, I have become fond of trying to make my room as comfy and sleep friendly as possible which has resulted in me permanently keeping a scrumptious smelling candle on my bedside table.  The MOR Dolce Candle range is exclusive to Target and the Honey scent is heavenly! Fragrant may bell and honey top notes combined with base notes of amber, cotton candy and vanilla make your room smell super inviting and calming without being overpowering. The best bit about this candle is that it’s made of natural soy wax, 100 per cent cotton lead-free wick and features a 35-hour burn time. Affordable for everyday use, the product is free from animal testing and is made in Australia.   

RRP$15.00 Available in select Target stores only across Australia.

So tell me my lovely P & L readers, what are your favourite budget buys?

Any sleeping tips?