Review: Korres Greek Yoghurt Line*

Review: Korres Greek Yoghurt Line*

Sunday, 2 August 2020

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A while back, I spoke to you about Korres, a Greek skincare brand based on natural ingredients. Ingredients which leave your skin looking refreshed and healthy. At the time, Korres had only launched their Wild Rose Range which I have been loving ever since. So you can imagine how excited I was when Korres sent me a few products from their recently-launched Greek Yoghurt line to try out!

Apparently, Greek Yoghurt is not only healthy to consume but it is also super healthy for your skin as it hydrates and soothes it.  According to Korres, they were the first brand to incorporate “live edible yoghurt into a skincare product” so I was definitely excited to put the products to the test.

Cleanser

The Korres Greek Yoghurt Foaming Cream Cleanser is a luscious cleanser which comes out in cream form but turns into a lovely foam whilst cleansing the skin. This cleanser contains the following key ingredients; Greek yoghurt (duh!), amaranth (a fiber & protein-rich grain) as well as honeysuckle. It is suitable for all skin types; I have combination, acne-prone skin and I found it very soothing as it cleaned my skin well and was gentle enough that it did not irritate my breakouts and sensitive areas. It was also perfect for my forehead and my cheeks which tend to be quite dry as it did not dry them out further as some cleansers tend to do. This is definitely an all-rounder when it comes to cleansers so I definitely recommend it!

Mask

The Korres Greek Yoghurt Hydra-Biome Probiotic Superdose Mask is heaven in a jar! Since I have acne-prone skin, I deal with a lot of redness and irritation. I love this mask because it balances out my skin, soothes the redness and irritations and makes it feel nourished. I like to apply a nice, thick layer and after 15 minutes on my face (as soon as I see it almost melting into my skin), I wash my face. You can immediately see that the skin feels and appears hydrated and more alive as it smoothens the texture of my skin, reduces redness and soothes irritation!

It’s also fantastic for the summer, as it has a cooling effect (especially if you put it in the fridge) so it’s definitely a product you need after a day at the beach! It’s a gentle mask, but don’t let that trick you into thinking it’s not worth trying because this little jar of magic works miracles for hydration and soothing properties thanks to the natural ingredients it contains!

Moisturiser

This Korres Greek Yoghurt Nourishing Probiotic Gel Moisturizing Cream is formulated with full-fat Greek yogurt to help soothe and nourish dry skin. If you’re obsessed with Greek yogurt (the food), you’ll love this daily moisturizer, packed with a natural source of proteins, vitamins and minerals (think olive oil concentrate and macadamia nuts). It has a similar and delightful scent as the Foaming Cream Cleanser and similar appearance, although somewhat runnier. I love how smooth and velvety the texture is and it doesn’t leave a sticky residue on my skin, leaving it feel velvet soft. This Korres Moisturising Cream contains a Microbiome Re-Balancing Technology to balance out and support the skin without over-compensating. It is also rich in collagen building protein to reduce redness and give a healthy bounce and plumpness to the skin.

 

Overall, the Greek Yoghurt line from Korres was a huge hit with my skin. I do not have anything like them in my skincare collection so I’ll definitely continue using them and will repurchase once they finish. I definitely urge you to check them out for yourselves to experience the hydrating and soothing properties of this range.

Korres Greek Yoghurt Line can be found at Remedies Pharmacies in Ta’ Xbiex, Birkirkara, Mellieha, Sliema, Siggiewi, Mqabba, Msida and Pearl Beauty, Arkadia Shopping Complex, Gozo.

Love, Thereseanne

Matalan Malta opens its doors at CenterParc, Qormi!*

Matalan Malta opens its doors at CenterParc, Qormi!*

Sunday, 27 October 2019

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On 12th October, Matalan Malta opened its doors at CenterParc, Qormi!

This is their latest addition to the Matalan outlets, having shops in Valletta, Sliema, Fgura and at the Smart Shopping Complex in Birkirkara.

Matalan has to be one of my favourite shops on the island – you can find everything under one roof, from the latest collections of affordable women, men & kids fashion, to home décor and house necessities. The newly opened store at CenterParc is quite big, and they have loads of clothes, accessories and home wear making it the perfect place to pick up some new season pieces.

Within their stylish home décor section, I particularly love their cushions, throws & obviously their scented candles! I already have my eye on a couple of pieces for my study/office which is in the works. I also have a couple of frames in my bedroom which still need pictures but they’re a nice addition to any bed side table. 

Obviously, I have to talk to you about the fashion part of the shop! For one thing, they have a gorgeous Autumn/Winter ’19 Collection – I just want everything! I decided to spend my time trying on some autumn outfits though as I’m really trying to mix up my wardrobe a little bit this winter and add some more colour as I do have a tendency to always wear black in colder months. I was so surprised at how many cool pieces they had while also having clothes to suit a lot of different age ranges and sizes. From teddy coats to cosy knits, denim, and everything you may want this autumn to update your wardrobe.

I hope you liked this quick post, I thought Matalan had some really cute things and I’m definitely going to go back to the home section for some Christmas decorations soon!

Wishing you a wonderful week, 

Love, Thereseanne 

Updated Review (22/07/20): Long Lashes Forever Serum*

Updated Review (22/07/20): Long Lashes Forever Serum*

Saturday, 7 September 2019

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In the beginning of August, I shared with you a product that I was about to put to the test – the Long Lashes Forever Serum, and I told you that after I put it to the test myself for a few weeks, I’d be back to share my thoughts with you all – so here I am! I’ve been using the product religiously every night for the past 4 weeks, and I can indeed tell you that I have seen a difference in my lashes!

The Long Lashes Forever Serum contains an active ingredient which helps stimulate lash growth, as well as other ingredients such as Hyaluronic Acid which moisturises and smooths the lash surface, and Pro-Vitamin B5 which improves the structure of the hair fibers by making them appear stronger, shinier and more flexible.

I usually remove my makeup and cleanse my face thoroughly every night, moisturise or apply a night mask and pop this serum onto my upper lash line right before I sleep. In the 4 weeks that I’ve used the Long Lashes Forever Serum, I’ve noticed that my lashes decreased in the amount of shedding – I usually notice that every time I put on mascara, I lose a couple of lashes however this product seems to have made my lashes stronger. I’ve also been asked multiple times whether I was wearing false lashes when I wasn’t so I quite believe that this serum made my lashes appear fuller and longer. I plan on continuing using this product until it finishes so I can see the full result, but so far, I’m quite happy with the results upon using the Long Lashes Forever Serum!

3 Month Update (28th October 2019)
So, 3 months in and after using the Long Lashes Forever Serum religiously every night for 3 months, the difference is quite noticeable. My lashes are stronger and darker in colour, they shed less so I haven't been losing as many lashes as before, they appear fuller and their natural curl seems to be more defined - definitely a win in my books! And there's still some product left so it is definitely worth checking out!

8 Months Later Update (22nd July 2020)

After my initial test run with the Long Lashes Forever Serum, I decided to do another 3 months of using this product seeing that it worked wonderfully the first-time round. I repurchased it again back in late April, and started using it immediately, as indicated; after cleaning my face in the evening and put on my evening skincare routine, my last step is always to apply the Long Lashes Forever serum to the base of my top eyelashes. As I mentioned when I first tested it, the results can be seen immediately when used as suggested; I believe I was able to see results within two weeks of everyday use and the growth has been uniform. I have noticed that since I’ve started using the Long Lashes Forever, mascara seems to apply better and my lashes don’t fall off as frequently as they used to. The length and density of my eyelashes can be clearly noticed when I am not wearing any makeup so it’s definitely a plus. As a lash serum, the Long Lashes Forever Serum is definitely the one to try; for the price, you get 3+ months of everyday use since a little bit goes a long way as well as noticeable results! So, what are you waiting for? Trust me, go try it now! 

The Long Lashes Forever Serum is available from Fragrance Malta.

Click here for a direct link to the product.

Happy Weekend!

Love, Thereseanne

Review: Revlon PhotoReady Candid Collection*

Review: Revlon PhotoReady Candid Collection*

Tuesday, 27 August 2019

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The key to great makeup is having a flawless canvas to work on, hence why your base makeup products need to be amazing. This is why I put the new Revlon PhotoReady Candid Collection to the test!

Formulated with no harsh ingredients, the Revlon PhotoReady Candid Collection includes a foundation, concealer and powder which offer medium buildable coverage up. Ingredients-wise, the products are rich in antioxidants, oil-free and contain anti-pollution and anti-blue light technology, both necessary in today’s world.

The foundation has thick, creamy texture which feels lightweight once applied to the skin. It comes in 6 skin tone matching shades and the tube comes with a pump which makes it more efficient and hygienic. The Revlon PhotoReady Candid Natural Finish Anti-Pollution Foundation provides a natural-looking finish with little product required, as you can see in the photos below, and it also offer medium coverage, buildable to full if you need that extra coverage like I do. The added bonus of no oils, parabens, phthalates, synthetic dyes or artificial fragrances makes it a winner in my books!

The Antioxidant Concealer comes in 3 shades, and comes in a tube with an oval doe-foot applicator which makes for easier application. I’m a big fan of the formula, it’s not too thin but not too thick either – the perfect creamy buildable formula which covers those annoying under-eye bags and dark circles. It is also infused with caffeine which gives the eyes that pick me up needed to look more bright and awake.

The Revlon PhotoReady Candid Anti-Pollution Setting Powder is available in one translucent shade, which is anti-whitening and anti-chalking, so you will not get that caked powdery look. It is very lightweight and adds that final blurring effect to your makeup look. It also works great for setting under the eyes – what we call “baking”.

And that’s it from me! What are your thoughts? Have you tried any of these products?

Revlon products are available from selected pharmacies and leading supermarkets.

Love, Thereseanne

Black Cat Café, Victoria, Gozo – A Hidden Gem

Black Cat Café, Victoria, Gozo – A Hidden Gem

Wednesday, 14 August 2019

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Black Cat Café, 19, Triq Vajrinġa, Victoria, Gozo (+356 21569240)

Hidden away in the backstreets of Victoria, Gozo, Black Cat Café is the ultimate spot for a mid-morning brunch or a quick coffee and dessert break in the afternoon.

Upon entering the doors of Black Cat Café, you are greeted with vibrant purple walls adorned with chalk boards and peculiar ornaments and picture frames. Situated opposite Gozo’s National Library, the artisan coffers an intimate and cosy atmosphere which might be appreciated by some, but is not ideal for those who suffer from claustrophobia as the café is quite small in size and space.

Paula, the Maltese-Australian owner, and her daughter took great care of us from the moment we arrived, recommending us a delicious cup of tea from the wide variety of natural organic loose teas on offer, including Jasmine Blossom Green Tea and Scottish Breakfast Black Tea served in a traditional Kyusu (Japanese teapot). As we are not big fans on tea, we opted for a cappuccino, a caramel latte and a chai latte with almond milk, as we were made aware that they offer alternative diary free options, such as almond or soya milk – which if you are lactose intolerant like myself, would be grateful for like I were.

As we were given the menus, we were also informed that she would be more than happy to adjust the menu to suit each individual’s preferences. Whether you are gluten intolerant or following a vegan diet, you will definitely find something to satisfy your cravings. For the Aussies in Gozo, at the Black Cat Café you will also find some snacks to make you feel right at home, such as the traditional vegemite on toast and homemade sausage rolls. Also, do ask for the specials, as Black Cat Café is known to have both daily and seasonal specials!

We settled on the chilli ginger salmon on rye bread, the poached egg and smashed avocado on multi grain toast and a bowl of spicy tomato soup. As we waited for our food, soft jazz played just at the right volume. In the meantime, we could also hear the owner, who is also the cook, in the kitchen, beating the eggs which made the experience all the more homely and made the lack of space in the café even more noticeable.

The food oozed the warmth of homemade food, and you could see that the owner has a clear passion for food, both in terms of quality and taste, as it is quite perceptible from the care put into preparation and display. Everything was genuinely fresh and delicious; the home style spicy tomato soup was served with an accompanying soft bread roll and was subtly spicy yet strong enough to warm you up on a cold winter day, the poached egg and smashed avocado on a thick piece of multi grain toast served with rocket on top was beautifully presented and quite appetizing, and the chilli ginger salmon on crisp rye bread was mouth-watering.

We could not resist not having a piece of cake after our scrumptious lunch, and I am sure you will be tempted too as Black Cat Café is known for its homemade cakes and pastries, including vegan, sugar free and gluten free varieties. There were various desserts on display, such as Anzac biscuits and lamingtons which are originally Australian, however, we settled on the ricotta and lemon cake which was flavoursome, the banana cake which was deliciously moist and perfectly flavoured and the raw chocolate cheesecake which was rich, creamy and irresistible.

Wondering about the bill? Fear not for your pockets! The food is great value for money as prices at the Black Cat Café are affordable; snacks and mains range from €3 to €8, with the tomato soup and bread roll priced €3 whilst the poached egg and smashed avocado on thick multi grain toast priced at €3.50. Prices of drinks range between €1 and €3.20.

If after reading so far, you are already planning on a trip to Black Cat Café, you need to keep in mind the following. Unfortunately, the café is not easily accessible for wheelchair users as there are a couple of steps to enter, as well as the size of the café makes it a bit of a problem to enter the premises. The second downside is the opening hours; Black Cat Café opens Monday to Saturday from 8am to 4pm, with the kitchen closing at 3pm, which one might find slightly odd as 4pm is the perfect time for someone to pop in for tea and cake. Regrettably, I was also informed that on Sundays they do not open.

Despite the few shortcomings mentioned, the good exceeds the bad, and the warm and welcoming staff as well as the fresh and absolutely delicious food, drink and dessert options definitely make Black Cat Café a hidden gem worth visiting whilst in Gozo!