Let's rewind...

In January I stumbled across a video from Too Much Tash on YouTube where she discussed her 2017 no buy. I set myself a challenge to not buy any new makeup products this year unless I absolutely needed it. For example, if I had no mascaras or concealers left, I could buy one replacement using my Sephora gift vouchers. Or if products were sent to me, that is also excluded since it isn't purchased with my money. 

I was very curious to see how many makeup products I actually went through in a year and how much $ total those products cost. This challenge has pushed me to shop my stash and use what I own. I also completed my first project pan this year and some of those items are also included in here. Plus any other products I got through.

*I did not include makeup items I decluttered other than the brow pomade as that dried up and I used it as long as possible. All other items on this list were finished up completely.

Primer

• Australis The Original Primer - $15.95
• Vapour Organic Beauty Stratus primer - $3.49 (sample)

Liquid Foundation/BB/CC cream

• Chi Chi CC Cream - $29.95
• Physicians Formula Organic Wear BB Cream - $18.58
• Models Prefer all in one BB cream - $12.99
• Inika Organic BB Cream - $0 (gifted)
• Adorn Cosmetics Cream Foundation - $3 (sample)
• Vapour Organic Beauty Atmosphere Luminous foundation - $3.49 (sample) x2
• SCOUT Cosmetics Luminous Finish Mineral foundation - $0 (gift)
• NU Evolution foundation (sample) - $4
• Kjaer Weis foundation (sample) - $4
• Fitglow Beauty foudation (sample) - $4

Powder foundation

• Lily Lolo Mineral Foundation - $29
• Australis Fresh & Flawless - $13.95

Powders (setting)

• Face of Australia translucent powder - $11.95

Concealer

• NYX Full Coverage concealer yellow - $9.95
• Hynt Beauty Duet Perfecting concealer - $34.95
• Saavy concealer - 4.99

Brow products

• NYX Eyebrow Cake Powder - Dark Brown $9.95
• Chi Chi Cosmetics Brow Pomade - Blonde $14.95

Mascara

• Inika Long Lash Vegan Mascara (black) - $45
• Eye of Horus Goddess Mascara - $0 (gift)
• RAWW Cosmetics Moringa Lash Impact mascara - $24.99

Eyeshadow (single shades/palettes)

• Flower child from Tartelette in Bloom (gift)

Bronzer

• Urban Decay Naked Flushed Bronzer - $17.33 (divided total price by 3)

Highlighter

• Urban Decay Naked Flushed Highlighter - $17.33
• Colourpop Super Shock highlighter in Lunch Money - $8
• Australis High Lights mineral face highlighter in pearl - $16.95

Lip products

• NYX soft matte lip cream in Tokyo - $12.95
• Colourpop ultra glossy lip in Weho - $0 (free gift with purchase)
• Essence lipstick - $2
• NudeStix lip & cheek pencil in Mystic - $0 gifted
• Gerard Cosmetics lipstick in Vintage Rose - $26 (AUD)

Total cost of products used up:

$403.18

Total number of products used up:

34

I've never tracked how much makeup I use up in a year but I think I have done pretty well! I managed to save just over $400 by using what I own. I didn't end up doing a 100% no buy as I purchased a few samples to trial more organic foundations (I'm switching over in 2019) and I had to repurchase a mascara as I was completely out of that category but I allow those exceptions.

I think I will continue a replacement only buy in 2019 and going forward. This year has taught me it takes a while to get through makeup plus I own enough of it to complete a full face. Also seeing the amount of money I saved is really motivational as I can spend that money elsewhere or even save for the future.

I have a variety of Adorn Cosmetics mineral shadows in my collection and don't hear a lot about them, so I thought I'd do some swatches! These are all loose shadows made from natural ingredients. They come in a matte or shimmer finish and are very versatile as you can build them up or sheer them out.

Keep in mind: all my swatches were done using a flat shader brush and were not built up to full opacity.

Jasper

shimmer

Golden Topaz

shimmer

Citrine Orange

shimmer

Clarity

shimmer

Desire

matte

Obsedian

shimmer

Coral Pearl

shimmer

Pink Pearl

shimmer

Base

matte

Topaz

matte

Quartz

matte

Unity

shimmer


Now for the swatches:

Another update for you all! This one is exciting, especially if you've been keeping up with my urban decay palette progress. This update includes me reaching a few goals and switching out products.

 Eye Shadow - Zoeva Cocoa Blend
Still no pan and I only ever use the two same shades. Due to this slow progress (this isn't a bad thing because it's definitely worth the money!) I did a poll on my Instagram. I asked you all if I should go back to panning Tartelette in Bloom, because I always find myself wanting to use it, or if I continue with Cocoa Blend. 75% of you all said Tarte so because of this I have decided to attempt a pan that palette with In Bloom. I don't want to force myself to pan all shades by December because I don't think I'll have enough time, but I do want to hit pan in as many shades as I can.

Bronzer/Highlighter - Urban Decay Naked Flushed
I finally used this up! The last update I was so close but it is officially done. After using it so regularly I noticed a lot of breakouts forming where I applied it and blackheads/clogged pores. I believe the ingredient talc is what caused it so I've decided to steer clear of it. If talc isn't an issue for you this is a nice trio!

Brows - Chi Chi Brow Pomade (blonde)
Progress is steady here, I am expanding the side pan and it's an everyday staple so it is easy to use constantly.

Blush - Nudestix Bare Back
A product that tends to be forgotten, however, I used it a few times. I feel like I use this more when the weather is warmer. It will be staying in my project so I can continue to use it.

3INA Eyeshadow Pencil
In every update, I feel like I say I forgot to use this so I think it is time to pass it on to a better home. It is a nice easy product but I'm more of a matte person so I don't reach for it.

Foundation
SCOUT Cosmetics foundation has been used up! I am really excited about this because I'm eager to try more natural foundations in 2019. Next, I am moving onto my NYX drops to hopefully use up or make significant progress on. So far I have used up 3 out of 6 foundations for 2018.

Lips
Another lipstick used up! I was able to finish my essence lipstick bringing my total to 2 for this category. I used the NYX lipgloss a handful of times but hopefully, I can make more progress.

Colourpop Lunch Money highlighter
I decided to discontinue using this product mainly due to its age. I made a little more progress and I probably could eventually finish it off which would be satisfying but for the sake of my skin, I think it's best to part ways with old makeup.

Adding in:
To replace the products leaving my pan I have selected:

• Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder in Dim Light. I usually save this for special occasions but I paid so much for it that I may as well use it while it's good.
• NYX under eye colour corrector 

Reached goal on 15 items

- Tartelette in bloom flower child (used up)

- Tartelette in bloom smarty pants (hit pan)
- Tartelette in bloom charmer (hit pan)

- Colourpop ultra glossy lip in Weho (used up)
- Inika Organic BB cream (used up)

- BH x Carli Bybel light brown shade (hit pan)

- BH x Carli Bybel matte cream shade (hit pan)

- BH x Carli Bybel 1st row shimmer shade (hit pan)

- Lily Lolo Mineral Foundation (used up)

- Urban Decay Naked palette highlight shade (used up)

- Gerard Cosmetics Vintage Rose (used up)

- Urban Decay Naked palette bronzer shade (used up)

- Essence lipstick (used up)

- Colourpop Lunch Money (hit pan)

- SCOUT Cosmetics foundation (used up)

Lost or decluttered 4 items

- Colourpop Oh Snap (decluttered)

- Chi Chi O.M.NUDE!! lipstick (lost)

- 3ina Lip Oil (lost)

- 3INA Eyeshadow pencil (decluttered)

I am technically still on a no-buy which is going well! But of course, a girl can still online window-shop and add things to cart. In 2019 one of my goals is to be more conscious of waste and make as minimal waste choices as possible.

So, because I'm always super organised (I've already set up my 2019 bullet journal!!) I thought I'd kick start with one of my goals and create a wishlist. This includes general items such as tea, perfume, health products, makeup and skin care. Hopefully, I am able to get around to trying these out when my no-buy ends and I use up products in the relevant categories!

100% Pure Blood Orange Cleansing Balm

"a delicious, naturally scented balm formulated to gently cleanse the skin and leave it soft, glowing and supple. Ideal for all skin types, especially dry and sensitive skin, this gentle balm washes away makeup, excess oil and helps remove dead skin cells to reveal a bright, even complexion."

100% Pure Multi-Vitamin + Antioxidants Ultra Riche PM Treatment

"provides a boost of nutrients to damaged skin, helping to smooth and repair it overnight. This potent blend contains anti-ageing ingredients such as Aloe Vera, Rosehip Oil, Green Tea and CoQ10 which are supported by Vitamins A*, C and E for an antioxidant-rich corrective formula."

Hanako Therapies I Am...Bliss

"a balancing, peaceful fragrance that helps to release feelings of frustration and banish negativity. It helps to clear your mind, helping you to relax in times of stress. Uplifting natural ingredients such as Sandalwood, Sweet Orange and Lemon help to encourage positive energy and clarity."

Edible Beauty Tea No. 2 - Fountain of Youth

"Packed with rich botanicals and fruits, all pure and wildcrafted, this is an anti-ageing, skin-plumping and hydrating tea."

Kiwiherb Immuneguard

"an immune tonic which may aid, assist or help in the maintenance of general well-being."

Mukti Cacao Vanilla Lip Butter

"Highly nourishing and conditioner for the lips."

Ere Perez Arnica Concealer - Honey

"A full-coverage concealer. With antiseptic and anti-inflammatory Arnica Flower extract, it helps to calm blemishes and inflamed skin, as well as covering dark circles, pigmentation and irregular skin tone."

Ere Perez Oat Milk Foundation - Honey

"offers a non-greasy, yet hydrating, natural finish that lasts all day."

*Only non-reusable/non-minimal packaging product*

These are all of the products on my wish list. Have you tried any? Let me know.

Disclaimer: I generally always reuse plastic spray bottles/glass tubs when I make DIY things so that is why I've gone with minimal waste over zero waste 😊I am in no way perfect at creating no waste but I am excited to begin my journey and do my part for the environment.

I was super lucky and grateful to receive a package from Social Soup on behalf of Mecca Maxima. Inside the package was a variety of products from their own brand MECCA MAX. I am sure 99.9% of you have heard about them but basically, they're quite affordable, cruelty free and completely vegan!

This is the first time I ever tried any products from their brand but I put them to the test for three weeks before writing this review up for you all. I received their Life Proof Longwear foundation, Banana Bake Skin Filter powder, Bring On Bright Illuminating primer, Eyephoria Vivid Impact palette and an A-Lipster liquid lipstick. Firstly, can I just say I love their play on words with some of the product names! Very creative.

With this review, I will share a description of each product as well as the rating from the site. Plus my own opinion and a selfie of me wearing some products at the end.

Life Proof Longwear foundation

Site rating: 4 / 5

My rating: 3.5 / 5

"Be the last to leave the dancefloor in this forever fresh foundation. Dreamily creamy and buildable, this ultra-endurance coverage is so satiny it feels like liquid skin –  longwear just got luxe."

Opinion: I will start with the positives and end off with three flaws. This is a really good medium (full if you don't have a lot of scarring) foundation. It doesn't contain SPF so you could wear it daily or at night, which means it won't cause flashbacks in photography. I also really liked how smooth it went onto my skin initially and that I didn't require a lot of product. For me personally, this would be a daytime foundation. You'll find out why soon.

The only three downfalls I can pinpoint is the shade range, it settles into my smile lines and can go cakey in my textured areas. Smile lines are always an issue with any foundation for me. So this isn't really a very big deal, especially since it looked pretty flawless anywhere else on my skin. However, this foundation only stayed flawless looking until the 5-hour mark. For some reason on my textured area, the foundation built up and didn't look as great as it did initially. I could happily wear this foundation to work and am confident I wouldn't experience any issues. The shade range is probably my biggest concern as it needs to be expanded to a wider range of skin tones.

I would say this foundation is a little better suited to oily to normal skin types. I could have experienced a cakey appearance as my acne marks tend to be pretty dry and flaky. The illuminating primer or really hydrating my face beforehand did help this issue though. So don't be put off if your skin is on the dryer side, there are ways to make almost any foundation work for you.

Banana Bake Skin Filter powder

Site rating: 4.4 / 5

My rating: 4.5 / 5

"Hello, yellow wonder powder that perfectly brightens, sculpts, sets makeup and corrects every single skin tone on the planet."

Opinion: For someone with dry skin that usually never wears powder, especially to set my under eyes, this was my favourite product out of everything. I really struggle with powder not going cakey or making my under eyes look dehydrated but for some reason, this really worked for me. I mean, it still settled ever so slightly after 5 or so hours but I could easily smooth it out. 

The subtle yellow shade really helps to brighten up the face, especially for dark circles. I personally don't powder my face but I am sure it would clean up a contour really nicely. The powder is fine and pressed, which I really enjoy.

Bring On Bright Illuminating primer

Site rating: 4.4 / 5

My rating: 4 / 5

"Switch on instant, ultimate illumination like it’s a lightbulb! Get a seriously luminous complexion and a base that holds all day with this glow-boosting primer."

Opinion: I am one of the rare people that doesn't wear primer. I usually rely on my facial oil, but, if I were to wear primer it would be an illuminating or hydrating one. This adds a lot of luminosity to the skin, almost as if it is a pure highlighter in liquid form. I found it peaked through foundation even if it was more of a matte finish. The intensity depends on how much you apply and the foundation coverage but it will always show through. I personally didn't find it to be hydrating but it doesn't claim to be so that isn't an issue. It is more of a liquid highlight in my opinion but works best under makeup. If you love to glow then you will adore this primer.

Eyephoria Vivid Impact palette

Site rating: 4.7 / 5

"We’re talking universally gorgeous gold matched with the exact tone of warm/cool burgundy that looks beautiful on every eye colour and complexion. The crease-free pigments blend, smoke up and layer without ever overdoing it. Pulling together matte neutrals to love every day and shimmery glam slams, this will take your look anywhere every time."

Opinion: To be completely honest, none of the shades in this palette appeal to me (mainly shimmers) so I knew I wouldn't be keeping it. For that reason, I didn't want to swatch it because I'd rather donate it brand new to someone who will really appreciate it. So I don't have a review for this product to share with you all.

A-Lipster liquid lipstick in

Site rating: N/A

My rating: 4.5 / 5

"Hi-def, liquid matte lips that stay flawlessly zoom-proof and fabulous like you’re being stalked by the paparazzi at all times."

Opinion: Another product I was really impressed with. I wasn't a fan of the shade on my skin tone but the actual formula was amazing. It's thin, gives you some time to play around with it before drying, completely matte and transfer-proof yet not drying whatsoever. I would say the formula is pretty similar to The Balm. This is definitely one of the best liquid lipstick formulas I have ever tried.

Here I am wearing the primer, foundation, power and liquid lip.

So that is everything! Have you tried any products from MECCA MAX? If so, what are your favourites? So far mine are the banana bake powder and liquid lipstick.

This update is coming a little late this month, but better late than never right? We will jump straight in because I have some exciting progress to share!

Eye Shadow - Zoeva Cocoa Blend

Some of you may know that I went away to Bali for two weeks and I didn't end up taking this palette with me. There's no pan but I can notice I've made some dips in two shades - bitter start and substitute for love.

Bronzer/Highlighter - Urban Decay Naked Flushed
A product that should be finished but I didn't take this traveling either which just of delayed me from achieving my goal. It is so close that I am confident I can be done with it by the next update!

Brows - Chi Chi Brow Pomade (blonde)

I HAVE HIT SIDE PAN. I REPEAT, I'VE ACTUALLY REACHED THE BOTTOM OF A POMADE! I use this product daily (when I am wearing makeup), it has felt like forever but I'm so excited to see the bottom. I never planned to use this up, only see how much I can use. I'm going to keep it in my project as it is necessary to my makeup look anyway. I would've never thought that I'd use this much of a pomade, especially since I prefer brow powders.

Blush - Nudestix Bare Back
Another one that shows slow progress but I am hopeful I can use up at least a quarter by the end of 2018?? I brought this away with me so it received more love than usual. I still have to encourage myself to use it more though.

3INA Eyeshadow Pencil
I forgot this was even in my pan. I don't find myself to reach for it a lot so if I don't use it by the next update I will replace it with a product I will actually use and be able to finish. I don't think I am an eyeshadow stick person, despite it being quick and easy to use.

Foundation

SCOUT Cosmetics foundation is so close to being done. This was another product that stayed home when I went away so it delayed me from finishing it off. It will definitely be done by my next update which is exciting to think about.

Lips

Gerard Cosmetics Vintage Rose has also been used up! I am really happy about this because I can finally focus on another lip product and continue working through my collection.

I didn't reach for the NYX butter gloss because I didn't bring it away with me. Instead, I added an Essence lipstick into my pan and focused a lot on that. There is some exciting progress since this lipstick goes down pretty quickly.

Colourpop Lunch Money highlighter

I've been using this as my nose highlight and I unexpectedly hit pan! I did tell myself I'd get rid of it as soon as I hit pan as it is pretty old but I want to continue using it a little more. I'll check in during my next update whether I'll toss it or continue making progress. I was so excited when I saw the silver pan!

Goals for the next update:

• Use up Urban Decay bronzer
• Use up SCOUT Cosmetics foundation
• Use up Essence lipstick

Previous update: https://the-dailycatchup.blogspot.com/2018/07/project-pan-2018-update-4.html

Reached goal on 11 items

- Tartelette in bloom flower child (used up)

- Tartelette in bloom smarty pants (hit pan)
- Tartelette in bloom charmer (hit pan)

- Colourpop ultra glossy lip in Weho (used up)
- Inika Organic BB cream (used up)

- BH x Carli Bybel light brown shade (hit pan)

- BH x Carli Bybel matte cream shade (hit pan)

- BH x Carli Bybel 1st row shimmer shade (hit pan)

- Lily Lolo Mineral Foundation (used up)

- Urban Decay Naked palette highlight shade (used up)

- Gerard Cosmetics Vintage Rose (used up)

Lost or decluttered 3 items

- Colourpop Oh Snap (decluttered)

- Chi Chi O.M.NUDE!! lipstick (lost)

- 3ina Lip Oil (lost)

I have to admit when I first cut out meat I was only doing it for the animals. I didn't even bother to research health benefits or ease into the transition. I woke up on the 1st of January two and a half years ago and decided I would never eat meat again.

Fast forward to now and I haven't touched meat once. I have fish occasionally, for health reasons, but that is only about 3-4 times a year. I just wanted to create a post about what I've noticed since changing my diet and share how I fit in all the nutrients our bodies need.

Iron, Protein, and Omega-3

First things first, the I, P and O that we all need in our life. There is sometimes a misconception that when you cut out meat your iron levels will drop drastically. Personally, my iron levels were lower when I was eating meat in contrast to now. For some reason, my body responds a lot better to plant sources, which is amazing!

There are so many other sources of iron, protein, and omega-3. I wanted to list a few options for you all and I ensure to eat something from a few of these categories every single day.

Iron

• Legumes - this is my main source. I eat a lot of lentils, chickpeas and occasionally tofu.
• Grains - I have oats every single morning.
• Nuts & Seeds
• Vegetables - leafy greens

Also, if you are really low you could have iron supplements but I definitely recommend eating real food over that if you can.

Protein

• Protein powder - so easy to add into your breakfast or a smoothie. I buy mine from Tropeaka. It is important to not rely on protein powder as your only protein source though!
• Beans and Legumes
• Dairy - if you choose to eat it! I have cheese or yogurt occasionally
• Tofu & Soy
• Nuts & Seeds
• Eggs

Omega-3

• Chia Seeds - AMAZING!! Chia seeds have so many health benefits.
• Flaxseed
• Walnuts
• Seaweed - I add spirulina into smoothies
• Leafy greens - Spinach, kale and broccoli
• Berries
• Mango

Superfoods

Vegetarian or vegan superfoods are constantly popping up that I can't keep track. I've only incorporated a handful into my diet and I always make sure they have multiple health benefits suited to what my body needs. I'm not talking about vegetables like kale here, I'm talking about spirulina, maca root powder and so on.

These are a few staples that I incorporate regularly:

• Spirulina - a source of protein, B1, B2, B3 vitamins, copper, iron, magnesium, and potassium. Has anti-inflammatory properties (good for the skin!!) and anti-cancer properties.
• Maca Root Powder - can increase energy, fertility (helpful if you have PCOS like me) and it is highly nutritious.
• Tumeric - Anti-inflammatory (again, great for those of us with acne), prevents cancer, heart and brain diseases, immunity booster (helped out with my tonsillitis issue).
• Coconut oil - contains fatty acids, good for skin, hair and dental health, reduces inflammation, prevents heart disease, cancer prevention, boosts immunity and increases energy.
• Raw cacao powder - full of antioxidants to absorb free radicals, another source of iron, contains magnesium and calcium and a natural mood elevator. 

You will notice that all the superfoods I opt for have similarities of issues I'd like to address. I wouldn't typically consume all of these daily, I switch them out and only use what is relevant. For example, I only have maca root powder at the moment to aid with managing PCOS.

A few key things I look for in a superfood is: energy boosting, iron/protein source, anti-inflammatory (to help out my skin), boosts immunity and helps prevent serious illnesses. 

Keep in mind, these superfoods are in addition to real food. They do not replace fruit or vegetables in any way. You also don't have to be vegetarian or vegan to incorporate them into your diet. I've just discovered them since going vegetarian.

Kale and Spinach - A love affair

I feel like these leafy greens deserve their own section. If I had to recommend two green vegetables to opt for then these are it. They can easily be added into any dish or smoothie and provide so many benefits. I dabble with a variety of vegetables throughout this journey but these two have stuck with me right through and I won't go a day without one or the other. 

TMI but if I am ever feeling constipated OR like I really need to detox my body I will eat these veggies and I always feel so much better.

These two leafy greens are pretty similar, with kale being a slightly better option, but I love them equally. 

Kale

• High in fiber and vitamin A
• Souce of vitamin C and K and iron
• Prevents cancer
• High in beta-carotene

Spinach

• Source of iron and fiber
• Contains vitamin A, C, and K
• High in folate
• Helps transport oxygen around the body

Evident Changes

Since choosing a more plant-based diet there are health benefits or physical changes that I have noticed. Starting with the biggest change, I feel a lot better. Internally it feels like my insides are healthier, I digest food better, I have more energy, I don't ever feel bloated or have that weird gurgly feeling I used to get when I ate meat cooked with oil. It is like my insides feel clean. 

Also, since beauty is from the inside out I have noticed my skin starting to clear up. Typically in the non-hormonal areas, although my hormonal break-outs are less cystic. Now, I do also see a naturopath to help manage my PCOS but diet definitely also plays an important role in clearing acne. Diet can also help out with other PCOS symptoms.

2017-2018

Going off the clearer skin change, I have also noticed my skin is less dry and inflamed looking. I do still get dry patches and red where active acne is but other than that, it is a lot better. I know 99.9% of people say drinking a lot of water will clear your skin but I am a very small person and drinking 3+ litres of water makes my kidneys overwork to the point I have to pee every 3 minutes. What these people fail to say is that you get water from other sources, you don't have to just drink it all. So many fruits and vegetables contain water and they count towards your water intake! This is something I have learnt since choosing a vegetarian diet and explains why I rarely feel dehydrated even if I don't drink 2L of water. Drinking water is still definitely important! Everyone has their own amounts they should consume daily as it goes by weight and height. There are lots of calculators online that can help you determine how much your body needs.

Another big change that happened quite quickly was that I had tonsillitis and colds a lot less. This could also be due to me cutting down on the processed and refined foods in my diet. I still do believe that having more fruits and vegetables has increased my immune system drastically.

It's safe to say that I have finally found the perfect "diet" for me and my body. I find it easy to not eat meat as I am very passionate about animals, but I also never enjoyed the texture or taste of meat. I don't miss it and am super happy that my iron levels are higher than before being vegetarian!