My Haircare Routine – Blogmas Day 21

ROLLY Mag

I would describe my hair type as thick and wavy- with frizz on top.

I’ve found nothing to help with the frizz, except for when a hairdresser heat-styles my hair. I simply cannot achieve the same look at home.

My mum has a GHD straightener which I borrow to smooth out the front bits from time to time, and I have this curling wand which I adore but can only be bothered using for ‘special occasions’.

Otherwise, my hair is up in my signature top knot (I’m literally known for this hairstyle lol, it’s been my go to since forever), with a scrunchie, and the recent addition of a pearl hair clip (one of these options from Kmart 1 / 2 /3).

As for actually going to the hairdressers, I’m not faithful. I just go wherever is easiest, and honestly, cheapest. All I ever get is a trim and maybe a few ‘face defining’ layers. And that’s it.

I’ve had a few scary experiences with hairdressers in the past- where I’ve left in tears. I have started joking that you never leave the hairdressers happy.

It had actually reached the point where I preferred going to the dentist over the hairdressers.

However, I recently had an experience that changed all of that.

I had a few days off, and so I had planned to do boring life things like, get a haircut, go to the dentist etc.

I told one of my best friends this, and she said she had booked a hairdressing appointment already, at a newly renovated salon in our town.

I thought, omg, let’s go together!

So I booked and paid for my appointment online, which is something I’d never done before. I was usually a walk in customer.

I was actually excited about this haircut.

The salon was beautiful, really modern and had a functional, IG-worthy layout.

The hairdresser we had booked to see (I chose randomly!) was sick, so we both had the owner there to cut our hair. Her knowledge and experience was evident, so I’m really glad it turned out like this.

She offered us tea, coffee, soft drink (it was 9am so we politely declined) which was already SUCH a different experience to any other haircut I’d had.

She made me feel really comfortable.

I went first.

My hair was the longest it had ever been, and whilst I loved the ‘your hair is so long’ compliments, it was beginning to get a bit ratty at the ends.

So I motioned to my collarbones- I was getting a decent 5-6 centimetres cut off. I wish I took before and after pics!

The hairdresser goes, ‘oh, so you’re getting a lob… a long bob.’

And this scared me, I didn’t want to label the chop hah!

Nonetheless, I got a lob.

My hair felt so light. I’d never thought my long hair was heavy but in comparison, it’s so different.

I loved it.

Throughout both of our haircuts, we were chatting away with our hairdresser about life and hair and it was really fun. Like she really cared.

I told her, that I never paid any attention to my hair care. I just used whatever shampoo was in the shower already, or on sale at Coles.

I think she died a little.

I knew that Pantene didn’t have a great reputation. But I often have Tresemme or Garneir in my shower.

The reason I don’t really put much effort into my hair is because it not only proves to put up with whatever I put in it, but because there is sooooo much information out there, I prefer to focus on makeup and skincare.

Imagine the information overload if I cared about my haircare too… well!

I am really enjoying wearing my hair down, it’s at a fun, swishy length and I can curl it pretty regularly and quickly now. But wearing it up for work has been a struggle- I’m not very creative when it comes to hair, and it no longer goes in a top knot.

Because it is so much shorter too, I am trying to train my hair to be washed less often.

The hairdresser scraped the scissors down my hair, and there was a puff of powder in the air, and built up on the scissors.

I was shocked (and a bit horrified). She explained it to be the silicone build up.

This was proof enough to me- not an IG advertisement- actual evidence that convinced me to spend $40 on a salon grade shampoo and conditioner set.

I was perfectly happy to spend this money- I had a wonderful haircut and experience, and if buying expensive shampoo and conditioner was going to take care of my hair (minimal effort!) then I was happy to do it.

I went home and shared my story on the You Beauty Facebook Group, asking for savey silicone-free hair options.

The comments went crazy with recommendations- many suggested I look into the Curly Girl Hair Method as it encourages the use of silicone-free products. I actually have a friend who follows this regime and loves it. But! Different things work (or don’t work) for different people.

Then, Leigh Campbell, the Beauty Queen herself, commented this.

And a lot of other people agreed, saying that silicone build up protects your hair and is the best form of defence against heat.

And remember, I am not an expert. But I wondered if my years of silicone hair products were what made my hair so durable.

So now, my opinion has changed…

I don’t think silicone is the enemy. To me, at least.

I will use up my expensive shampoo and conditioner, but I don’t think I will repurchase it.

Garnier do a silicone free savey option that received rave reviews on the You Beauty thread, which I actually do have in my shower at home so I will try it out too.

I am simply sharing my story. And as much as I love the You Beauty group (and any Facebook group), I think members need a friendly reminder that everyone has different opinions and we need to be mindful of those.

Take everyone’s opinion (in life na din Facebook groups) with a grain of salt.

So, there we have it, a hair care evolution story.

I would love to know your relationship with haircare… share in the comments!

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Week Latte #36 – Blogmas Day 20

ROLLY Mag

Happy last Week Latte of Blogmas!

There is still another Week Latte to come for 2019 though- don’t you worry!

How have you liked this series? I know it’s very well received- which makes me sooooo happy. I love sharing the love! But do you want to see more? Anything I can add? Themed posts? Thoughts?

As always, hope you enjoy today’s links!

I found this blog and IG through stalking the #coloupophaul tag on IG! Such a detailed and comprehensive blog post!

This video is hilarious 😂

I knowwwwww I share so much Colourpop content and I’m sorry but I love it too much to stop.

This

Ok this is an awesome dupe!

Seriously obsessed with this beauty account @beauteiya and this Marc Jacobs!

I found this silk company via @smileycitrus and how luxe does it look!?

Lilac nails are my fave… but look at the rainbow and glitter on these! Goals!

Morgan has wrapped up her Top 10 Skincare products and there are sooooo many goodies that are on my Wishlist!

The prettiest bag I ever did see!

The detail on this eye look is beautiful!

So washing your face for 60 seconds is potentially just another beauty trend but you bet I’m going to give it a go!

Follow along on IG @rolly.mag>>> https://www.instagram.com/rolly.mag/

Love a bargain? Me too! Find a bargain in my Discount Directory >>> https://rollymag.home.blog/rolly-mags-discount-directory/

And say hello via email >>>

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SPF Lip Balm Inventory – Blogmas Day 19

ROLLY Mag

Yesterday I shared my updated SPF inventory, and today I’m excited to share my SFP lip balm collection and reviews. Be sure to let me know your fave SPF lip balm in the comments- I’m always looking to find something new.

Dermal Lip Balm / here

I had high hopes for this balm, because for a long time it was the only one I could find that was 50+! (Bondi Sands 50+ is new to the scene.) However, I cannot possible like this balm because the taste is soooooo strong. I have friends who use this without worry, but I unfortunately can’t get past it. Their team on IG said they were creating a new formula (or flavour?) which I will definitely try when it comes out. Anything has to be better!

Lanolips / here

Perfect for everyday wear with the tint of colour but not enough staying power for beach days. Lanolips are said to bringing out the same formula minus the SPF which I think will be a winner because the SPF component does have a particular “taste” IMO.

Bondi Sands / here

I don’t find this balm particularly moisturising nor drying, but it’s 50+ and smells like coconuts so it’s probably my top pick for 1) sun protection and 2) price.

Ultra Violette / here

Very sheer colour that is easy to wear. Like the Lanolips, however, I would rely on this alone for long days in the sun. I look at these products more as makeup than skincare.

Follow along on IG @rolly.mag>>> https://www.instagram.com/rolly.mag/

Love a bargain? Me too! Find a bargain in my Discount Directory >>> https://rollymag.home.blog/rolly-mags-discount-directory/

And say hello via email >>>

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Blogging BTS #8 by The Makeup Treasury – Blogmas Day 18

ROLLY Mag

I am so excited to feature Azra from @themakeuptreasury on my Blogging BTS Series today!

I adore her IG- she is always on the mark with new releases, both high end and drugstore. And her Colourpop collection is goalssssss!

Be sure to give her a follow here.

How long have you been blogging/had your IG?

I started my beauty IG page in November 2017. Prior to that I’d been posting daily on my book IG page known as @brokewithabagfullofbooks, which I started in March 2015. I haven’t had much time to review books over on my book page because of uni commitments, but I’m playing with makeup pretty much every day and have been obsessed with makeup since I was 13 so it only made sense that I started a beauty page as well!

What was the first item you were ever ‘hashtag gifted’?

The first ever product I received was a face palette from an Australian indie brand called Make Art Official.

Do you reach out to brands to collaborate? Or do you wait for them to approach you?

I haven’t really contacted a brand to collaborate with them. I’ve only been approached by a few brand during my entire time on IG.

If you don’t reach out to brands, why not?

I always feel a bit weird doing so. I suppose it has something to do with the fear of being rejected by a brand that I’d love to work with.

If so, have you ever been rejected by a brand for a collaboration?

Not really, because I avoid reaching out to brands unless I’m approached by one first.

Have you ever reached out to a brand and received no response?

Yes! Recently I’ve contacted a couple of brands and haven’t received a single response. It can be very disheartening.

Have you had a ‘pinch me’ blogging moment?

I was so shocked when I reached 10k followers! Especially because my account had been stuck at a certain following amount for over a year and a half. Another moment was when I somehow got over 11k likes on a photo (it was of the MAC Cosmetics x Pony Park Hocus Pocus eyeshadow palette than many were lusting over) and my third ‘pinch me’ moment was definitely when ColourPop Cosmetics reached out to me and asked if I wanted to collab with them. It’s a brand that I’ve been obsessed with for quite a few years now so I had to say yes!

Can you think of a time when your following (as in, the number of followers you have) has ever disadvantaged or benefitted you?

Not really. I don’t have much interest in the amount of followers or likes I get. Yes it’s definitely a bonus to see your account grow, but I created my page to share my love for makeup and absolutely love taking photos of my collection.

Who is your dream brand to collaborate with?

ColourPop Cosmetics was definitely one of them and I reached that goal. I feel like collabing with MAC Cosmetics or Tarte would be fun!

Is it your goal to make blogging a full time job?

Nope. I very much got into blogging as a hobby and it will most likely stay that way. I really love posting photos and interacting with others in the beauty community, but I can’t see myself turning it into a career. I’m lucky enough to be very passionate about my career as a psychologist and can’t see myself doing anything other than that.

What’s one PR package you wish you received?

I’d really love to receive PR from Mecca! I’ve been shopping there for 10 years now and that would be a dream come true.

If someone said ‘what do you do?’ would you say ‘I’m a blogger?’ Why/why not?

In this case my response would be ‘psychologist’ because it’s such a massive part of my identity. Blogging has always been a hobby to me and I’d probably only mention it if someone asked what I like to do other than being a psych.

Do you have an issue with the algorithm?

Not so much these days, but I had a massive issue with it for over a year and a half. My page just wasn’t going anywhere and it was so disheartening because I was putting a lot of effort into my posts. These days I find it a lot more enjoyable because I don’t pay much attention to the numbers. I love the fact that IG got rid of visible likes!

What’s one condition you would never agree to with a gifted or sponsored post?

I don’t like the idea of brands telling people to only share positive things about their products. It’s so unauthentic. As a consumer I want to know what people love and hate about a product and would only want to share my true opinion with others. It can really help consumers in deciding whether the product is right for them.

What is one of your conditions that a brand must agree to in order to collaborate with you?

I don’t have any conditions at the moment, probably because I haven’t worked with many brands.

Have you ever had a negative experience with a brand?

I personally haven’t had any negative experiences when interacting with brands but I’ve encountered negative things about certain brands on the internet that has entirely put me off the brand.

Share the story of how you gained a gifted item? From the initial contact, to the post of the item etc. Was it smooth sailing?

I basically just received a DM or email from the brand asking if I wanted to collab with them. Some brands have agreements and requirements, other brands might just require that you share a photo of the product that they send to you. It’s been pretty smooth for me so far.

Name three bloggers who admire and why.

@glossco on IG – her photos are so gorgeous and inspire me to take prettier photos for my feed.

@lipsticknlinguine on IG – she takes great photos and keeps things real which I appreciate from a blogger and youtuber.

@fingerweapons on IG – another fellow Aussie and uni friend who posts the most amazing nail pics and inspirational nail art.

Take us behind the camera, do you use natural or artificial light? Phone or DSLR? How do you edit pictures?

I use natural lighting, so sunny days are my best friend. I also use my iPhone camera to take photos and I edit everything in the PicsArt app.

Are you fussy with your feed or do you just wing it? If you are particular and intentional, tell us about the planning process.

I’m very easy-going with my feed. My photos don’t need to be perfect, as long as they’re relatively cohesive in theme. I like a crisp white background so the products really stand out.

Thanks again for this opportunity!

Azra (@themakeuptreasury)

Follow along on IG @rolly.mag>>> https://www.instagram.com/rolly.mag/

Love a bargain? Me too! Find a bargain in my Discount Directory >>> https://rollymag.home.blog/rolly-mags-discount-directory/

And say hello via email >>>

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Updated SPF Inventory – Blogmas Day 17

ROLLY Mag

Earlier this year, I shared my SPF inventory here.

Basically, I developed a consistent and dedicated facial SPF routine when I started taking roaccutane for my acne.

Despite being off the medication for years, my SPF routine has remained.

However, I wanted to share an update because I have tried quite a few SPFs since I originally shared that post.

I also now have an SPF lip inventory which I’ll share soon.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost / here

I have heard good things about this SPF, and I love the Ultra Sheer formula by Neutrogena so I had high hopes. Firstly, I dislike the scent that is featured throughout the entire Hydro Boost range. It left you a bit a greasy, but nothing that couldn’t be managed.  However, I found the main flaw to be that it made my foundation pill. I tried numerous different layering techniques and use different moisturisers and products before the SPF but it always pilled. I shared this experience on the You Beauty FB group and a few people agreed with me, and a few found layering techniques that reduced the piling (and some found no piling at all!). I won’t repurchase this SPF, it really didn’t work for me however, I will use it up by using it as a body sunscreen.

Bondi Sands Fragrance Free Sunscreen Lotion / here

I feel like I’ve shared this story so many times (ha!) but basically, I order the face version of this sunscreen (smaller bottle and higher price) from Chemist Warehouse, and they incorrectly sent me this one. I did some research to see if it was worth returning. The ingredients for this body sunscreen are the exact same as the face variation. So, to me, there is in fact no difference. I reached out to Bondi Sands, via their customer care form on their website, in October to ask for clarification and received a reply in November only after I posted about it on my IG story because I was disappointed with their service.

However, the actual product itself: When I first applied it, it was thick and I thought ‘ew this is going to be like a gross traditional sunscreen’. But, in fact, once rubbed it in, it was nothing like a traditional sunscreen at all!

No sticky residue, no white cast, no fragrance. I’m impressed.

I used it on my face as well and it didn’t make my makeup pill so that’s fab.

Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration / here

I discovered this brands body sunscreen last summer and feel in love. It smells delish, and feels like a moisturiser so it’s easy to apply lots of it. I picked up the face option and it is seriously fab for people like me with combo skin. The days I use this, I don’t need to apply an additional moisturiser, because this is enough!

It layers really well with makeup too.

I have done some research and there are seemingly no differences between this and the body formula, according to the ingredients. The difference is in the bottle size. The texture/consistency is the same. So I think I will just continue to buy the boys one from now on and use it on my face as well.

Mesoestetic / here

I had never before heard of this brand, but was approached to receive the product. The press release was extremely intriguing, and you can never have enough SPF, so I said yes.

O.M.G.

It is amazing. Perfect to the face, it is light weight and rubs in like a dream. It leaves a satin finish which is perfect for both a bare face and to layer makeup on top of. My current fave combo is this sunscreen with my Chi Chi Cosmetics CC cream. A match made in heaven.

I am soooooooooo impressed. This feels so luxe! However, it is only a sunscreen and I have to add moisturiser to my face when I use this (unlike my Hawaiian tropic, for example, which is a combo product!) (gifted)

Azclear  / here

This SPF has a lotion like consistency which is really nice and light weight when applied, it also makes it so easy to apply one teaspoon worth of product to your face.

I really liked using this, and it didn’t make my makeup pill.

Two downsides, it’s only 30+, so you would have to save this to use in the winter months. Personally, I just choose to wear 50+ all year around so I wouldn’t purchase this myself.

Another reason I wouldn’t purchase this is because I’m pretty sure it caused an allergic reaction.

I used it on three seperate occasions, and each time, I had tiny, under the skin bumps appear along my jawline.

Because of this, I have been hesitant to reach for it again.

I have actually passed this onto my teenage brother.

I think it is perfect for him because, 1) he has hormonal teenage skin and so something light weight is perfect and 2) he spends most of his time indoors (at school and home) and it’s hard enough to get him to use any skincare at all. So a sunscreen that doesn’t look or feel (although it does smell!) like sunscreen, is perfect. If he does go outside, it is often incidental exposure, but if he is bike riding or swimming, you can be assured by mum lathers on the thick 50+ banana boat and puts him in a hat. ‘You win some, you lose some’ she says.

—-

I have Ultra Violette on my wishlist, particularly Supreme Screen for its priming qualities (I learnt a lot about it listening to this episode of Adore Beauty’s podcast.)

I actually won a screen of theirs from Morgan which I’m yet to try but will keep you updated of course!

Mecca’s To Save Face is a cult classic in the Aussie Beauty world so I am keen to give it a try, as well as the new SPF lip balm they’ve released.

I am also interested to try new SPF- what’s your fave? Or what’s one that you tried and didn’t like?

Follow along on IG @rolly.mag>>> https://www.instagram.com/rolly.mag/

Love a bargain? Me too! Find a bargain in my Discount Directory >>> https://rollymag.home.blog/rolly-mags-discount-directory/

And say hello via email >>>

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November Empties – Blogmas Day 16

ROLLY Mag

November feels like ages ago… I already have a few items piling up for December empties 🙊

Technically, these products have been “emptied” over the last few months, but I wanted to collate them all here.

Derma Sukin Body Wash:

I can remember buying this but I’m not sure why. It’s very gentle- however, I want a body shop that takes me to a tropical island that smells of fresh fruit and flowers so I found this a bit boring. Lasted forever though! Won’t repurchase.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Night Concentrate:

Not a fan of the scent of this range. I’ve seen that Katie purchased the unscented formula from iHerb, but I don’t think I even like it that much to buy it again. I think I prefer creams on my skin. Although this was hydrating, I didn’t like how cold and gel-like it was to apply. I did, however, much prefer the night concentrate over the day gel cream from the same range. It is an ok savey option but I won’t repurchase.

Simple Foaming Facial Wash:

I didn’t realise this was a foaming wash when I bought it… I only try to steer away from foams because the general consensus is they they are harsh on the skin. This, however, was gentle and effective. I probably won’t repurchase for the fact I prefer gel formulas but a good option.

Yes To Cleansing Balm:

This is the only cleansing balm I’ve tried, and I have to say I really disliked it. It stung my eyes and left an oily residue on my skin. I have also tried cleansing oils in the past and didn’t enjoy that either. So maybe it’s just me lol. Despite this, I used it up- and very quickly too! So I don’t see this as a cost effective option in comparison to a regular cleanser either.

Maybelline Brow Drama:

This is now discontinued and I’m sad about it because it was so good and easy to use, to add a bit of colour to your brows! W7 have a similar one that I’m yet to try.

Rexona:

Not my fave deodorant but it did the job. Does anyone else find it hard to know when their deodorant is completely finished? Lol.

Dermae Vitamin C Serum:

I got this in a Bella Box and started using it during the September Samples Challenge. I’ve heard that alternating between Vit C and retinol is a power combo for skin. I did enjoy it but I’d like to experiment with other Vit C products before committing to the full size!

Follow along on IG @rolly.mag>>> https://www.instagram.com/rolly.mag/

Love a bargain? Me too! Find a bargain in my Discount Directory >>> https://rollymag.home.blog/rolly-mags-discount-directory/

And say hello via email >>>

hellorollymag@gmail.com

Glam Party Makeup – Blogmas Day

ROLLY Mag

This was my second work Christmas party for the year and the theme was ‘glam’. 

The night prior to this I had my work Christmas dinner and so had already given a few of these products a test run. Sorry I haven’t written that post yet 🙃

I wanted to give the I Heart Revolution primer another test. It is quite nice to use, a bit more hydrating than my OMShe, and less glowy than my Rimmel radiance. I’m quite a fan!

I did my eyes first, a new technique I’ve been putting to the test of late. 

I tried something a bit different and used my L’oreal Infallible concealer as a base on my eyes. It gives such good coverage, and really brightened the area. I find the concealer a bit too intense for my face, so I think this could be the perfect use for it.

I wanted to do a lilac look, using the shimmers in my new I Heart revolution palette. However, there aren’t any purple mattes in there so I had to look through the rest of my collection to find something suitable.

The Australis Mesmerize palette had some options… but I got a bit flustered and decided to try my Frank Body Rose Gold Illuminator on my eyes instead.

The reason I bought both colours of the illuminators is because I envisioned the gold as a face highlight, and the rose gold as a one-and-done eyeshadow colour. 

However, once it was on my eyes, the colour really wasn’t building up to the rose gold colour I wanted it to. I was very sheer. Normally I would be happy with that, but 1) I wanted to be really ‘glam’ and 2) it’s supposed to be rose gold and it just wasn’t. It did give a stunning glossy/wet effect which I loved. 

I’ll definitely experiment with this again, but for this look, it just didn’t cut it. 

So, I decided to go over the top with some of the deep, matte mauves in the Glitz palette and then used the Revolution shimmers as a topper. 

I got a purpley kind of look so I was happy. 

I then used the Rimmel Matte foundation for the first time. It is sort of foamy in texture. I was pleasantly surprised with this colour match and the coverage.

I used my Flower Beauty concealer. I use this because it is so good at providing coverage and brightening, but oh my god, it creases my under-eyes like crazy! And I always forget that it does this…

I used the Savvy bronzer again… I think this works better as a bronzer topper- however I used it by itself and it still gives a good amount of colour.

I attempted to use my new BYS blush stick. It is such a pretty colour- very similar to my Luma tint in the shade ‘muse’.

I attempted using a stippling brush, my fingers and sponge to apply this, but each method was unsuccessful. 

No matter what I did, applying the cream just removed my foundation underneath. 

It was a really tricky process, and this is why I am hesitant to use cream products. 

I topped up my blush with my trust Elf.

The thing is the though, I love the colour! So I am willing to try and use it again. I think I’ll apply this underneath my foundation, that way I don’t have to fiddle with it over the top. Hopefully that works. 

Then for highlight, I finally got out my Coloupop Flexitarian to play with.

I got this CP brush to use specifically for highlight- I think Kathleen lights recommended it- but I actually didn’t love it. It was a bit too dense for my liking. 

The highlight itself shocked me by just how creamy it was. It almost felt wet. 

This was my first ever time using the supershock formulas and wow- now I understand how CP made a name for themselves with these unique products. 

I found that I had to work the product up quite a bit to get it from a glitter-like finish to something more intense. 

It wasn’t glittery but the reflection was sheer. Does that make sense? 

Honestly, I was kinda disappointed. This is their bestselling highlighter, and I just didn’t see the appeal. However!! I’ve only used it once. The colour is gorgeous once built up, and the formula is very new to me- I think I need some more practise before I form my final opinion. 

I used my fave Full Brow pencil to fill in my brows, and followed this with their brow fibre. The formula is a bit wet and smudgy to apply- but it provides fab colour and hold if you get the application right I topped this again with my Rimmel clear brow gel to test it out.

I was sooooo excited to try the L’Oreal unlimited mascara. The wand was a bit difficult to get used to, but I think if I practise a bit more I’ll get the hang of it. I can see how the moveable wand and different angles will be very useful.

It provided good length and volume that didn’t smudge or transfer. It was a bit clumpy to apply but I was happy overall. 

This was a really fun makeup experimenting session because I used so many new products. 

I tried my new Essence ‘this is me’ lipstick in the shade ‘freaky’. It was so creamy to apply, very pigmented and lasted a good while. And the colour is the *perfect* pinky-nude for me.

I was soooooo impressed with this. It’s $4.50. You have to try it. 

I also packed my Revlon Ultra HD Gloss in the shade ‘Birthday suit’. A gloss is easy for topping up your lip colour, and I used this last night and knew that I loved it.

Now, for the crème de la crème of this look… Morphe Setting Mist.

It has a subtle, sweet scent – nothing overpowering or unbearable. The mist is so fine. It applies like a dream. 

I had a very sweaty night of running in heels to catch the tram, lots of dancing in a very crowded room.

Yet, I came home and my makeup was still on my face.

Hard to say what I can attribute this too, as I used a lot of new products, but I think even after one use, this setting spray is definitely worth a shot. 

I also just wanted to add on here the story of my tan. 

It got to Saturday, and silly me had forgotten – yep- to tan. 

But I thought, perfect opportunity to try the new-to-me Bondi Sands Tanning Oil. My friend uses this and gets the most gorgeous, glowy tan from it in matter of hours.

So I applied this with the Bondi Sands tanning mitt at about 4pm. 

It had no transfer and no smell so I was impressed. 

But by the time I got to the party at 8pm, I didn’t really notice that the tan had developed.

That is, until I got back home at 2am. 

The tan on my neck had seriously developed and was no longer matching my face makeup at all. 

Ha. 

I wasn’t too concerned because it was dark inside so you wouldn’t notice. 

I was super impressed with just how well the tan had developed. 

I can’t imagine ever going back to using a tanning foam now- this was literally too easy to try any other method. 

The only thing is, it did have that typical tan smell the next day. 

But by day 3, the smell had gone but my tan had stayed. So impressed! 

Hope you’ve enjoyed this makeup series. This time of year has actually been really fun because I’ve finally had an excuse to actually wear makeup!

Follow along on IG @rolly.mag>>> https://www.instagram.com/rolly.mag/

Love a bargain? Me too! Find a bargain in my Discount Directory >>> https://rollymag.home.blog/rolly-mags-discount-directory/

And say hello via email >>>

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Week Latte #35 – Blogmas Day 13

ROLLY Mag, Week Latte

Happy Friday!

Blogmas has been intense… there is so much content out there! Last weekend I was trying my best to catch up on posts I’d missed, which resulted in IG banning me from commenting TWICE!! So annoying, I didn’t understand why they punish small and innocent creators.

Anyways, I’ve been very careful with my engagement this week.

Such an interesting read. My Year 12 year wasn’t particularly traumatic, just the “nothingness” of life afterwards that is so unusual.

I used to read Kate’s blog all the time but honestly don’t read blogs all that much anymore. A video of hers from 5 months ago popped up on my YouTube recommendations and I fell in a rabbit hole of catching up on her posts!

History has been made- Jonathan is on the cover of Cosmo!

Listening to Offline is always a good idea. I learnt SO MUCH.

Tiffany has a really interesting video series called “Internet Analysis” – I highly recommend giving this video, about Youtubers being relatable, a watch.

This is a fabulous gift guide by Mamamia, all brands that feature are from the Bush!

I adore this series! The “you’re not like other girls” trope is not a compliment!!

How cute and practical are these lip balm key rings! I bought number 5!

Gorgeous shot! And such a cool experience.

Seriously tempted by these!

I saw Frozen 2 last week and it reallllly makes me want this Disney collection by CP! Olaf is hilarious.

I’m not-so-patiently waiting for my CP order to arrive… how divine is this! So I do realise that’s a lot of CP content right here haha.

Laura has beautifully captured this illuminator… it’s very subtle but I enjoy it!

Follow along on IG @rolly.mag>>> https://www.instagram.com/rolly.mag/

Love a bargain? Me too! Find a bargain in my Discount Directory >>> https://rollymag.home.blog/rolly-mags-discount-directory/

And say hello via email >>>

hellorollymag@gmail.com

Blogging BTS #7 by IC x Beauty – Blogmas Day 11

ROLLY Mag

I’m so excited to feature a BTS post in amongst Blogmas!

The lovely Irene from @icxbeauty has answered some really juicy questions… let’s do it!

Follow Irene here.

How long have you been blogging/had your IG?
I’ve been blogging for 2.5(?) years now I believe. I’ve had my IG for about 4 years or so, maybe even 5. I started it for fun and I was determined to keep at it – which I can say I successfully did. After some time I stopped posting (life got in the way) and in 2017 I revamped my IG, changed my username, flatlay style and the direction for my account and here we are in 2019.
What was the first item you were ever ‘hashtag gifted’?
I think it was either bio oil or some white glo products, those were some of the earliest products I got gifted from memory.
Do you reach out to brands to collaborate? Or do you wait for them to approach you?
In the past I would reach out to small, local (same city) brands but these days they tend to do the approaching.

If you don’t reach out to brands, why not?

I feel like my account is really small (1k followers) so the chances of them choosing me to give the brand/products exposure is quite minimal. However, if I fit their image, they probably would accept for offer. That being said, I generally don’t reach out just because I don’t *need* more products in my life. For the past few years I have been trying to keep things minimal – plus I have so much unopened skincare and makeup just waiting for me to use.
If so, have you ever been rejected by a brand for a collaboration?
Not really…there was this one time I reached out to a brand (like two years ago or so) and it was just starting out and we were located in the same city. I reached out to them for a collaboration, to which they agreed, and I sent them my details. They kept changing the launch date (understandable because hiccups happen) but by the time they were ready to send it to me, they had changed what content they wanted from me without really asking? I told them I was about to go overseas and if they could send the package when I got back. They said that was fine and when I contacted them letting them know so, they didn’t respond to my emails and blocked me on IG…left a bad first impression and I’m glad I never collaborated with them because if that’s how they run a business then I don’t wanna be associated 🤐
Have you had a ‘pinch me’ bloggingmoment?
Don’t think I have.
Can you think of a time when your following (as in, the number of followers you have) has ever disadvantaged or benefitted you?
Nope.
Who is your dream brand to collaborate with?
Probably Sephora or Mecca haha, don’t have any in mind.
Is it your goal to make blogging a full time job?
Definitely not, it wouldn’t be really sustainable IMO and it’s just something I do for fun on the side. If it became a job it might feel like a chore to me and then it wouldn’t bring as much joy, you know?
What’s one PR package you wish you received?
Don’t think I really have one that I can think of. I’m grateful to receive any really, and also grateful for not receiving any 😅
If someone said ‘what do you do?’ would you say ‘I’m a blogger?’ Why/why not?
If they meant it as an employment question, I would say I’m a full time student but I’m also a casual in retail.
If they were asking specifically about blogging then yes I would say I’m a blogger – because I am!
Do you have an issue with the algorithm?
No I’m actually loving it! Only critique is sometimes it’s hard to find the posts from people you want to see? I know sometimes I miss out on a few posts from some of the accounts I’ve been following for years, but besides that, not much of an issue.
What’s one condition you would never agree to with a gifted or sponsored post?
Probably posting my face/having my face or photos reused for advertising without my consent/compensation.
What is one of your conditions that a brand must agree to in order to collaborate with you?
Probably to give me some time to trial and post something. Some deadlines aren’t long enough to get a ‘feel’ of the product.
Have you ever had a negative experience with a brand?
A few yes.
For the sake of this question, we are calling you (and me!) an ‘influencer’ (or micro-influencer’):
Can you give us just a general overview of your opinion on the whole ‘influencer’ space? Do you trust ‘influencers’ opinions?
Ok so this is quite complicated because when you refer to influencers (the ones from YT etc) that have 100k+ followers, I am not a big fan, but on the other side of things, my future career might actually involve influencers AND, in the same way you’re referring to us as influencers, I am a ‘micro-influencer’.
I’ll try to keep this short but straight up, I am not a fan of MOST popular influencers out there. There is too much drama and I find they come across as not genuine and just…who they are and what they stand for doesn’t resonate with me. Some ‘influencers’ are just not nice people, (ok maybe I lied, this’ll be long because I have a lot of opinions on this) I dined at a restaurant a few weeks ago with my BF and on the table behind us there was a food(?) influencer – how do I know you ask? It was too easy to spot, they had all the food laid out, talked really loudly about their collabs and they spent like 15 minutes trying to get the perfect shot – you get the idea. As I was talking to the waiter (who happened to be the manager as well) the influencer burst out asking for something. I found it to be really rude because the manager was already with US, serving US as we are PAYING customers, and here she comes along just acting so rude and calling the manager for something when he’s clearly busy. Not to mention, they left a lotttt of food behind. I mean even if it was free, food doesn’t come cheap.
On the career side of things, I can see that they are a cheaper form of advertising but the whole ‘I have this amount of followers, I deserve free things’ can sometimes go overboard. If you’ve seen the posts about influencers asking for free hotel stays, free food, free paintings, then you’ll know what I’m talking about.
Lastly, us as influencers. I trust the opinions of most micro-influencers, mainly the ones I follow on IG. But this is a bit harder to explain and I’ve rewritten it like five times so I’ll just keep it at that.
Fun fact: I had an assignment a few weeks back where I got to analyse an influencer of my choosing. Interesting results.
If anyone wants to talk about influencers with me, shoot me a DM, I’m happy to learn more about what you think and we can share ideas.
Take us behind the camera, do you use natural or artificial light? Phone or DSLR? How do you edit pictures?
Natural, phone, camera filter.
How did you come up with name for your blog?
I am so glad this is a question because everyone gets my user wrong. My user is icxbeauty but it is read as IC x beauty. IC is my initials and x is just like…x? I don’t know how to explain it, it’s like citing a collaboration. And of course beauty just means I am posting about beauty related stuff.
This wasn’t my original user though!
Thanks again for including me in this, I had a lot of fun answering the questions! Sorry it’s so wordy ahah

Follow along on IG @rolly.mag>>> https://www.instagram.com/rolly.mag/

Love a bargain? Me too! Find a bargain in my Discount Directory >>> https://rollymag.home.blog/rolly-mags-discount-directory/

And say hello via email >>>

hellorollymag@gmail.com

Drinks Party Makeup – Blogmas Day 9

ROLLY Mag

It was a particularly warm night when I was going to meet a few high school friends for dinner and drinks, so I went for a very glowy, summery look. 

This Rimmel radiance primer and foundation duo are my fave- omg. So creamy and glowy but long lasting and not sweaty looking. AND SO CHEAP! 

Sometimes I add the concealer from the same range and you really get a power of three moment. 

To keep the dewiness going, I use my Luma lip and cheek tint. I’m still get to find the perfect way to apply this, but I find a stippling brush works pretty well. This is quite pigmented and a little does go a long way, just FYI. And once it’s on your face, I find it hard to blend out. Just handle with care. 

Went for a very light dust of my Elf bronzer. 

And I used my Llivia Beaute highlight in Chai, agh it’s so freaking beautiful. 

I used my Colourpop peach palette on my eyes, just a mix of two mattes and a topper of shimmer for an easy and simple eye look. 

Rimmel pencil and MCo Beauty more brows for my brows. 

Used L’Oreal Bambi Eyes mascara- it’s nice but I don’t get the bambi effect. It’s a pretty regular shaped brush to me. 

I used my Flower beauty setting spray- even though it claims to be matte, and I had a glowy base… yolo. 

I feel like I’m rushing through this so much, but guys I have a dupe alert! 

Because I had an orange eye look, I was trying to find a nude lip to match. 

I put on the Flower Beauty lipstick in ‘Spiced Petal.’ This has claims to be a dupe for Charlotte Tilbury lippie (‘Pillow Talk’). Personally, I’ve not tried the CT one. But in terms of the Flower one… The colour is nice but I find the actual formula sooo drying. It’s really unpleasant. I know other people who say it’s nice and creamy but I just don’t have that same experience. 

I’m actually to declutter it, I dislike it so much. 

That’s ok though, because I think I’ve found a dupe for Flower. 

I put on this Colourpop Lux lipstick in the shade ‘Ariel’ and was shocked at just how similar the two colours were. 

The CP formula was so much creamier and nicer to wear. It didn’t last particularly well, but the comfort factor is what wins for me. 

I am so happy to have discovered this.

Although, I don’t think I would repurchase this CP one just because I don’t often gravitate to the colour- I like something a bit more on the pink side rather than as nudey brown as this.

In the daylight, the Flower one appears more pink- but on my lips (and remember everyone is different!) they were much more similar.

What do you think of these swatches? 

Have you tried either of these lip colours yourself? I’d love to know your thoughts! 

Follow along on IG @rolly.mag>>> https://www.instagram.com/rolly.mag/

Love a bargain? Me too! Find a bargain in my Discount Directory >>> https://rollymag.home.blog/rolly-mags-discount-directory/

And say hello via email >>>

hellorollymag@gmail.com