NYX Professional Makeup is bringing pro-level glam, vibrant colour, and unapologetic self-expression to the ultimate celebration—Virgin Australia’s Pride Flight—and beyond. As the official beauty partner, NYX has teamed up with Sydney-based makeup artist and LGBTQIA+ creator Danh Doan to design the ultimate Pride eye look, a bold statement that’s as VIP as the event itself.
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Mardi Gras is all about bold, unapologetic color, and what better way to embrace the celebration than with a vibrant, high-impact makeup look? Whether you’re hitting the parade route or dancing the night away, this guide will help you recreate the ultimate Mardi Gras glam using NYX Cosmetics' cult-favorite products.
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THE PERFECT BASE

​Start by prepping your lids with NYX Cosmetics Jumbo Eye Pencil in Milk —this creamy white base ensures that every color in your look pops to its full potential.

​COLOUR EXPLOSION (OBVS)

Now, it’s time to unleash the rainbow with the NYX Cosmetics Ultimate Shadow Palette in I Know That's Bright. 

On the outer corner a bold blue – Pack the bright blue shade onto the outer corner, blending outward for a lifted effect.

Create a Seamless Gradient – Apply the passionate pink next to the blue, blending softly where they meet. Follow with green, yellow, orange, and red, moving inward toward the inner corner.

Pro Tips:

Use the NYX Cosmetics Jumbo Eye Pencil between layers to clean up the edges and intensify the pigment for maximum vibrancy.

For extra impact, glide the NYX Cosmetics Jumbo Eye Pencil along your waterline, tying the whole look together for a cohesive, show-stopping gaze.

THE FINISHING TOUCHES

A sharp, dramatic wing is the perfect final detail—use the NYX Cosmetics Epic Wear Liner Stick to define your eyes with bold, smudge-proof precision.

Since the eyes are the star of the show, keep the lips glossy and luscious with the NYX Cosmetics Fat Oil Lip Drip in Missed Call.  This non-sticky, hydrating formula adds just the right amount of shine without stealing the spotlight.

Final Look: Bold, Bright & Beautiful
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With these insider tips and NYX Cosmetics’ must-have products, you’ll be serving high-energy, festival-ready glam all night long. So go big, go bold, and let your Mardi Gras eye-makeup do all the talking! 
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The Moroccanoil Hair and Body Fragrance Mist is a delightful addition to the Moroccanoil product line. It features the brand’s iconic signature scent,  Brumes du Maroc, a blend of spicy amber and sweet floral notes.   The fragrance is reminiscent of a Mediterranean escape, combining warmth and sweetness in a balanced and sophisticated way.  As a lover of natural perfumes, I really love this concept of a hair fragrance mist which also combines as a body perfume.   

​The fragrance is light and refreshing, making it perfect for use throughout the day.
One of the standout features of this mist is its inclusion of antioxidant-rich argan oil and Vitamin E, which help to nourish and hydrate your hair and skin. Additionally, it contains UV absorber technology to protect and preserve your hair from sun damage. The formula is sulfate and paraben-free, making it a safe choice for those with sensitive skin or hair.

Overall, the Moroccanoil Hair and Body Fragrance Mist is a luxurious and nourishing product that adds a touch of elegance to your daily routine. If you love the signature Moroccanoil scent, this mist is definitely worth trying! 

Available at Moroccanoil.


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The E45 Face Moisturiser has been named the top skincare product by over 5,000 Aussies in the Product of the Year awards.
 
This innovative moisturiser has been recognised for its fast-absorbing and non-greasy formula that offers effective and long-lasting 24-hour moisturisation. The moisturiser has been called a dupe for the viral Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte’s Magic Water Cream and even the Drunk Elephant Lala Retro™ Whipped Cream, with being only a fraction of the cost of both, retailing for only $12.49.
 
The E45 Face Moisturiser is a well-formulated product designed to provide effective hydration and care for dry, sensitive and eczema-prone skin.   One of its standout features is the inclusion of several natural ingredients that enhance its moisturizing and soothing properties.     It is also free of synthetic fragrances.

​Key Natural Ingredients:

• Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii Butter): Known for its rich emollient properties, shea butter helps to deeply moisturize and nourish the skin, leaving it soft and smooth.
• Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil): This oil is excellent for soothing and conditioning the skin. It is rich in vitamins and fatty acids that help to maintain the skin’s natural barrier1.
• Jojoba Oil (Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil): Jojoba oil closely resembles the skin’s natural sebum, making it an excellent moisturizer that helps to balance oil production and keep the skin hydrated.
• Glycerin: A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin, ensuring long-lasting hydration.
• Hyaluronic Acid: Known for its ability to hold up to 1000 times its weight in water, hyaluronic acid provides intense hydration and plumps the skin.

Key Pros:

• Natural Ingredients: The inclusion of natural oils and butters makes this moisturiser particularly nourishing and suitable for sensitive skin.    
• Free of synthetic fragrances: Opting for fragrance-free products can lead to healthier skin, fewer allergic reactions, and a reduced environmental footprint. 
• Hydration: Provides excellent hydration without feeling greasy or heavy. It absorbs quickly, leaving the skin feeling soft and supple.
• Gentle Formula: Dermatologically tested and free from harsh chemicals, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema.
• Affordable: Very affordable for tight budgets at only $12.99.

Personal Experience: After using E45 Face Moisturiser for a few weeks, I noticed a significant improvement in my skin’s hydration levels. The natural ingredients like shea butter and jojoba oil made my skin feel nourished and healthy. It didn’t cause any irritation or breakouts.

E45 Face Moisturiser is a reliable and effective product, especially for those with dry or sensitive skin. Its natural ingredients provide excellent nourishment and hydration, making it a great addition to any skincare routine. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a gentle yet effective moisturiser.

Available at - Chemist warehouse 

​The A'kin Deep Clean Scalp Scrub is a pre-shampoo treatment designed to cleanse and detoxify the scalp. It is formulated with Australian Aniseed Myrtle, Bamboo Extract, and AHAs to deeply cleanse and exfoliate, removing excess oil and visible flakes. It also has a fresh Mandarin and Ginger fragrance.

If you're battling an oily scalp and greasy hair, the A'kin Deep Clean Scalp Scrub might just be your holy grail. This pre-shampoo treatment promises a deep cleanse and detoxification and it delivers.
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​Brand Story
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​Dr.PAWPAW is a family owned and run proud British brand that was created in 2013 by husband and wife team Johnny and Pauline Paterson as a natural solution to soothe their young daughters eczema.

Today Dr.PAWPAW is the winner of 40+ global awards and can be found around the world in nearly 50 countries. Expanding its range of multipurpose vegan products, carefully curated to be suitable for the whole family. Strong believers of giving back, Dr.PAWPAW champions feel good beauty and donates a % of sales each year to various charities and also drive an eco and sustainable pillar through products, packaging and company culture. In its latest project Dr.PAWPAW introduces the already award-winning YOUR gorgeous SKIN skincare range to the market and now develops into new categories with this powerful, high performance yet simplified vegan skincare range for all.

Skin Territory founder, Kris Rodriguez, was a Safety Advisor originally from the Northern Territory who wanted to create a clean skincare line after suffering adult hormonal acne for years. Skin Territory is a gender-neutral, all-natural probiotic skincare brand with a twist on the unique ingredients the Australian bush has to offer.
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Kris was working in Construction as a Safety Advisor, which ensures that health and safety standards are adhered to on construction sites, when she had a lightbulb moment. Growing up, Kris consistently struggled with problematic skin, with the tropical climate along with her workplace environment notably worsened the condition. “I was working many nightshifts on top of eating a poor diet and I believe the stress of it all just took a toll and manifested in my skin.”

Her already-sensitive skin didn't fare well with the combination of her lifestyle, sweat, and dirt. Kris, in her desperation for a solution, embarked on research to discover what her skin required and the products that could provide a soothing relief. This journey culminated in the birth of Skin Territory.
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She based her new skincare range on four pillars: conscious sourcing, authenticity, empowerment, and representation. Kris takes pride in her commitment to supporting fair-trade practices for local NT indigenous harvesters and their communities. She focused on botanical extracts that are ethically sourced, in order to ensure a sustainable and transparent supply chain that positively impacts generations to come.
"I started learning about gut health and its significant impact on overall skin health. Recognising the adverse effects of the NT climate on my skin, I relocated to Melbourne, which has proven to be microbiome-friendly and gentler on my skin. Despite the move, I've retained the native bush extracts I uncovered, incorporating them into my formulations because of their efficacy and my genuine appreciation for them."

As a two-time award-winner, Skin Territory proudly unveils its premier product, the Red Earth Probiotic Mask. Formulated using advanced Probiotics, this exceptional formulation not only fortifies weakened barriers but also enhances brightness and hydration while maintaining a harmonious balance within the skin microbiome.
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The Red Earth Probiotic Mask features active ingredients with proven clinical studies and was formulated to seamlessly fit into existing skincare routines without disrupting or shocking the skin’s delicate microbiome.

“I’ve been working on this formula with a cosmetic chemist for 2 years, trialling and testing a lot of samples, and wanted to include native Australian bush foods that were close to my heart and home. I was fascinated with the Kakadu Plum and how this superfood is rich in anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and Vitamin C properties, in addition to being native to the Northern Territory. It made it an easy decision to base the formula on this amazing ingredient”.
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The Skin Territory range also includes at-home facial tools such as an applicator brush and konjac sponge as well as a luxurious line of bathrobes and accessories. Kris hopes to expand the line with cleansers, serums, and an ingestible probiotic supplement range in the future.
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Australian made and owned, the Red Earth Probiotic Mask is Vegan Australia certified, cruelty-free and available for purchase online at Skin Territory.  

A gentle natural shampoo for scalps in distress. Formulated with natural ingredients which prioritize gentleness for sensitive scalps.  Dermatologist approved and suitable for kids too.
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If you're one of the many who suffer from an easily irritated scalp, finding the right hair care can feel like searching for a unicorn. Harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and even seemingly gentle formulas can leave your scalp feeling like it's been through a warzone. But fear not, fellow sensitive souls, because A'kin Sensitive Shampoo and Conditioner might just be the calming oasis your locks have been craving.
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​​First Impressions:

• Packaging: A'kin's packaging is simple and clean, reflecting the brand's commitment to natural ingredients. The sleek clear bottles with pops of green and brown lettering feel light and refreshing, perfectly in line with the product's purpose.
• Scent (or lack thereof): A'kin Sensitive lives up to its name by being completely fragrance-free. This is a major win for anyone who reacts to even the subtlest of scents. It truly feels like a breath of fresh air for the scalp.

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Performance:

• Lather: A'kin uses gentle surfactants that cleanse effectively without stripping your hair or scalp of their natural oils. The lather is light and creamy, which is perfect for delicate scalps.
• Cleanse: Despite the gentle lather, this duo cleanses surprisingly well. It removes dirt and buildup without leaving your hair feeling dry or squeaky. My scalp felt soothed and calm after each use, a welcome change from the usual post-wash itchiness.
• Conditioning: The conditioner is equally gentle and effective. It detangles hair beautifully without weighing it down. My hair felt soft, smooth, and manageable after each use, with a healthy shine that wasn't greasy.

​Long-Term Effects:
After using A'kin Sensitive Shampoo and Conditioner for a few weeks, I noticed a significant improvement in the overall health of my scalp. The constant itchiness and irritation became a thing of the past, and my hair felt stronger and healthier. I even noticed less hair fall, which was a welcome bonus.

As this product is also suitable for children, my nephew gave this a trial run and his hair turned out so smooth and silky, you can see in this photo how beautiful his golden locks look and no stinging for his sensitive eyes. 
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Overall:
If you're looking for a gentle, effective hair care duo that's kind to your sensitive scalp, A'kin Sensitive Care Shampoo and Conditioner is definitely worth a try. It's free from harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances, and it delivers noticeable results without sacrificing performance. It's become part of my go-to hair care routine, and I highly recommend it to anyone who's been on the hunt for a hair care Holy Grail for sensitive scalps.

Highlights:

• Gentle and effective cleansing
• Soothes and calms sensitive scalps
• Fragrance-free
• Nourishing and conditioning
• Improves hair health and reduces hair fall
• 100 percent vegan
• Australian made and owned 
• Sulphate, paraben & silicone free

Key ingredients:

• Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Aloe Vera): Provides hydration and nourishment.
• Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract (Tasmanian Pepperberry): Soothes and calms the scalp.
• Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E): Protects hair from damage.

Final Verdict:
A'kin Sensitive Shampoo and Conditioner is a top-notch choice for anyone with a sensitive scalp. It's gentle, effective, and leaves your hair feeling healthy and happy. Give it a try, and you might just find your scalp-soothing soulmate.

I hope this review helps you decide if A'kin Sensitive Shampoo and Conditioner is right for you. Remember, your hair care journey is unique, so don't be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your locks. Good luck!     

Available at A'kin and Chemist Warehouse. 

A'kin, a well-known Australian natural and organic skincare and haircare brand, recently underwent a complete rebranding to reflect its commitment to sustainability and natural ingredients. The new branding features a fresh, modern look with a focus on clean lines, natural colours and botanical elements.      

Having been a fan of A'kin for the past 20 years, I was very excited to try the haircare  in their new line, the effective and nourishing deep clean shampoo and conditioner.  Such beautiful hair care products, still maintaining a naturally beautiful scent which I’ve always loved A’kin for, bursting with mood lifting aromatherapy properties.​

A'kin Deep Clean Shampoo is a paraben and sulfate-free shampoo that is designed to deeply cleanse and clarify hair. It is formulated with Australian Aniseed Myrtle, Bamboo Extract, and AHAs to remove dirt, oil and product buildup from the hair and scalp.  The consistency is a clear gel, which lathers up nicely.  The shampoo also helps to increase shine and reduce pollution buildup. Featuring a fresh natural fragrance of mandarin and ginger, this scent is exquisite.   I can literally smell the lingering ginger freshness in my hair all day long.   

​A'kin Deep Clean Conditioner is a lightweight, nourishing formula designed to complement the A'kin Deep Clean Shampoo and provide deep conditioning for all hair types, including oily and greasy hair. It is formulated with Coconut Oil, Jojoba Oil, and Shea Butter to hydrate and nourish hair, while also helping to remove dirt, oil and product build up.  Also containing the lush fragrances of ginger and mandarin.

I've been using the A'kin Deep Clean Shampoo and Conditioner for a few weeks now and I'm really impressed with the results. My hair feels so clean and refreshed after I use them and I've noticed a significant reduction in oiliness. The conditioner is also very moisturizing (not heavy and oily), it leaves my hair feeling soft, manageable and tangle free. 
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I would also like to add that I have used a number of other deep cleansing shampoos in the past, as I have very oily hair, but none of them have been as effective as A'kin Deep Clean Shampoo.  I'm really happy with this product and I will definitely continue to use it in the future. It manages to deeply cleanse my hair without making it feel dry and damaged. It makes my hair feel soft, healthy and smooth, which is what I haven’t been able to find with other deep cleansing shampoos. None of them have been as nourishing to my hair as this and they don't leave me with an itchy scalp, as many others do. 
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The changes A'kin have made to its product formulations have made them even more sustainable. The brand has eliminated all unnecessary ingredients and packaging, and it now uses only recycled or recyclable materials. A'kin is also committed to using only natural ingredients, and it has achieved certification from the Australian Certified Organic (ACO) organization.   All of their shampoos and conditioners are sulphate and silicone free. 
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This is by far the best natural shampoo I have tried and A'kin have worked their magic in formulising the effectiveness of their products combined with the amazing fragrances which always put me in a calmer and uplifted mood, what a great way to start the day.   

I'm really looking forward to trying their other shampoos and conditioners, especially the Daily Shine with geranium, cedarwood and patchouli!

Available at A'kin and selected retailers.   

A'kin Brightening Moisturiser: A Radiant Glow in a Jar

A'kin were the first organic beauty brand I discovered when I started my organic beauty journey many years ago,  all of their products have such an intriguing and natural scent as they are infused with the most divine and pure essential oils and botanicals.  From the first time I started using them I was hooked. They have maintained exceptional quality over the years.    Australian made and owned, they still remain at the top of my list.     
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A'kin Brightening Moisturiser is a natural, lightweight, non-greasy moisturiser that brightens complexion and evens out skin tone. It contains a blend of natural ingredients including rosehip oil, vitamin C and niacinamide, which work together to improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of dark spots and boost radiance.   The benefits of niacinamide are enormous, it's the one of the main ingredients I look for in my beauty products to counter the effects of ageing.  A'kin brightening moisturiser also contains the exquisite Kakadu plum and caviar lime.  Kakadu plum is a native Australian fruit that is known for its high vitamin C content. Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that has many benefits for the skin including smoothing out skin tone and stimulating collagen production. Caviar lime is also packed full of Vitamin C and Vitamin A nutrients.    
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I have noticed a significant improvement in my skin.  My complexion is brighter and more even-toned and my skin feels softer and smoother, especially where my skin has been sun damaged.   I also appreciate that the moisturiser is lightweight and absorbs quickly, without leaving a greasy residue.

What draws me back every time to A'kin is the mystical scent of all of their products and this moisturiser is no exception. A'kin brightening moisturiser is a complex and intriguing blend of natural ingredients that transports me to a world of enchantment and wonder.

The grapefruit, tangerine, rose and lime oils  awaken my senses filling me with a sense of calmness and grounding.    The calendula, aloe and rosemary add to the soothing skin properties.   

Together, these ingredients create a natural fragrance in this moisturiser that is both alluring and enigmatic, at the same time, taking special care of sensitive and delicate skin with the high quality organic and natural ingredients contained in this beautiful skin elixir.    Completely free of parabens and any nasty chemicals.  I also love the eco-friendly amber glass jar.
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Available at A'kin and selected stockists.    

Botany DNA Serums are an innovative and beautiful line of  ethically produced all-natural serums that address a variety of skin concerns, they are made with an array of botanicals and superfruits.   Proudly Australian made in Melbourne by Botany. Formulated with a proprietary DNA complex which helps to protect, repair, and hydrate the skin, improving the skin's DNA repair process.     
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Made with 100% natural and vegan ingredients and available in a variety of formulations including serums for hydration, anti-aging, and protection.   
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I have been using the Botany DNA Serum Pack for a few months now and I am really impressed with the results. I have combination skin and I've found that these serums are gentle and hydrating, but also effective in addressing my skin concerns.

The pack includes four serums: Glow, Hydrate, Age Reversal, and Protect. I use all four serums on a rotating basis, depending on what my skin needs that day.

Botany DNA Serum glow gives my skin a beautiful, radiant glow. I use it almost every day, especially in the morning before I apply my makeup.   It is formulated with ascorbyl glucoside and Kakadu plum. Ascorbyl glucoside is a stable and gentle form of vitamin C, known for its ability to brighten and even out skin tone. Kakadu plum is an Australian native superfruit that is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and other nutrients that can help to protect skin from environmental damage and reduce inflammation.  This serum has a lightweight and silky texture. 

Botany DNA Serum Hydrate is perfect for when my skin is feeling dry . It's lightweight and absorbs quickly, leaving my skin feeling soft and hydrated. I use it both in the morning and at night. Infused with hyaluronic acid and panthenol (vit b5), it plumps up and heals skin. This serum can be used by people of all skin types, but it is especially beneficial for those with dry or dehydrated skin. It can also be used by those with oily skin, as it is non-comedogenic and will not clog pores.  This serum has a lightweight gel like texture.

Botany DNA Serum Age Reversal is great for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. I use it a few times a week, especially at night.   It contains bakuchiol, a plant based retinol alternative.   I love this as I don't like using the harsh mainstream retinol creams and this is an amazingly effective and safe natural alternative.   It also contains rosehip oil, cacay oil and beta carotene.     Cacay oil is a rich source of vitamins A, E, and F, which are essential for healthy skin.  This has a velvety oil-serum texture.

Botany DNA Serum Protect is a must-have for anyone who spends time in the sun and to treat all types of environmental skin damage. Formulated with a unique combination of niacinamide and acetyl zingerone.  Niacinamide (vitamin B3) is another one of my favourite ingredients, it's one of my number one anti-ageing favourites.  ​Niacinamide is a form of vitamin B3 that is known for its anti-inflammatory and skin-barrier strengthening properties. It helps to protect the skin from environmental stressors, such as pollution and UV radiation.    Acetyl zingerone is a potent antioxidant derived from ginger. It helps to protect the skin from free radical damage, which can lead to premature aging and skin damage.  This serum has a rich, velvety silky texture. 

​Overall, I'm extremely happy with the Botany DNA Serum Pack. It's a great way to address a variety of skin concerns and achieve a healthy, radiant complexion.   I use just a few drops of each serum on my face, neck and décolletage followed by either Botany's beautiful Native Flora Day or Night Créme.
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​I highly recommend the Botany DNA Serum Pack to anyone looking for a natural comprehensive skincare solution, you won't be disappointed, my skin has felt deeply nourished and soft.    This feels like a very luxurious skincare line at an affordable price, not to mention safe for my sensitive skin.     

​Botany DNA glass bottles and droppers are made of high-quality glass, which is durable and protects the serums from light and oxidation. I love using glass droppers as they allow for precise and controlled application of the serums and it feels very elegant.   
Botany DNA serums also have a delicate, fresh scent.

​Botany products are cruelty free and sustainable, made without damaging habitat and also reusable and recyclable.    

Available at Botany.