Super 5 from Fountain Cosmetics

Being dangerously adventurous when it comes to experimenting with baking (with a 50% pavlova failure rate), fashion (mixing yoga leggings and silk tops) and beauty (from mermaid locks to bob in one easy swoop), I passionately sacrifice myself to try out innovative products from all over the world and from every dot of the Internet. Because I want you guys to look and feel awesome  🙂

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So while I blindly entrust my wellbeing and pretty face to the decency of modern chemists, please blend a handful of berries with a glass of almond milk and a scoop of protein and build a healthy appetite for healthy skin. Cheers!

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Fountain Cosmetics, a family run business based in Sidney, Australia since 1999, creates sulfate, paraben and mineral oil free solutions for skin, body and soul (happy skin=happy you… and me!). All products are designed by a dedicated team of local researchers and scientists who believe in innovation and the latest skincare trends. Packed with anti-aging ingredients, Fountain Cosmetics are effective in conquering skin problems plus delivering desired results.

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They make what they love and I love what they make! Here are my thoughts on the top 5 “must-gets” from  Fountain Cosmetics for a complete fancy spa experience:

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  • Exfoliate

Skin Exfoliant has a wonderful soft texture but a powerful base of lactic and glycolic acids paired together to penetrate deeper into skin (scratch-free). The combination of both acids is honestly a rare find that gives a professional touch to home care routines, allowing you to save on superficial medical peels. I use it once or twice a week depending on weather and skin condition, after removing all make up, washing and drying my skin (think face, neck and decollate at least).

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Test it first and then leave it on for 10-15 minutes to clear break-outs, free and tighten pores, brighten your skin from pigmentation or sun damage and soften wrinkles. Use cautiously in combination with products that contain retinol to avoid a reaction and please apply sunblock (SPF 20 in the winter and SPF 40-50 in the summer). More.

  • Firm and plump

Envy anti-aging eye serum contains glycerin, lactic acid, marine-based biopolymer complex, hard-working wrinkle fillers and a few other moisturizing agents to make your eyes a reflection of your forever-young soul 🙂 It smoothes lines, cools, plumps and gently firms the skin.

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The best part – packed in a long skinny 15 ml tube, Envy is easy to sneak onboard a flight for much needed hydration and regardless of its size it really lasts  (I use Envy twice daily), because one tiny drop covers it all! Doesn’t irritate eyes. More.

  • Moisturize

Exquisite Moisture hair mask is 3-in-1 R-solution: renews, restores and rehydrates. It has a lovely light fragrance and thick texture that melts into wet hair (the magic of argan oil).

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I apply it to all hair from the crown to the ends except roots and wash it off after 5-7 minutes. Exquisite hair mask brings back the shine without greasing your hair, so it could be used every day or on the trip to the steam room. More.

  • Nourish

Hydrating face mask is a real treasure suitable for all skin types including the super oily. Once applied it turns into a light veil allowing your skin to breath while benefiting from fruit extracts and advanced moisturizers. You can keep it on for 10-20 minutes without having to sit still as this mask doesn’t leak or fall off, however I warn you that the freedom of movement may result in you forgetting to remove it!

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Well, not a worry as you can just wipe it off with a wet cloth. Complete your little facial with a serum or moisturizer. More. 

  • Glow

Although it’s recommended for a very dry skin, the combination of Think C 15% serum and the Activator did wonders to my questionably demanding face (oily and irritated at the same time).

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The Activator is loaded with Vitamin B3 and anti-inflammatory properties, while the waterless formula of Think C serum revitalizes skin without blocking pores. Prevents break-outs and assists in healing. More.

Last, but not the least: Fountain Cosmetics offers a rare treat of delivering their products almost anywhere with free worldwide shipping (what!) on orders over $95 (Australian dollars). My latest order reached me in Toronto in 7 working days!

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Autumn style, sugar coated

The calendar is a funny thing, it cannot be trusted! Take September for example. While the weather is staying baking hot in Dubai, Australians are cheering the beginning of Spring and somewhere in Siberia kids are building their first snowman. So, where on Earth do I go to show off my new cashmere coat? I decided to head to Eastern Europe for some serious sugar coated autumn style. Salut, St. Petersburg!

Secret: Read about my summer adventures in SPB here and here.

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Peterhof, St. Petersburg

It’s true, the autumn’s here! I feel its presence in cooler breeze and shorter days… September sky is getting heavier allowing the weather to rapidly switch from fatally gothic to dreamy rococo. Autumn is here to charm with the ever-changing palette of colours and forever steal our memories of sweet summer days… With no time to lose, I encourage you to assist me in embracing the change of season with the sounds of l’Autunno by Vivaldi accompanied by a skinny flute of sparkling rose. Let’s savor this moment as every day is unlike any other. Follow my ten steps to glam up!

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On the streets of St. Petersburg

1. Allure. There is nothing more stylish than a great hair or… a complete lack of it. Scented with long lasting perfume (I love Dior Addict on a windy September afternoon), your flirty locks lure attention, making you truly unforgettable. Go for it!

Secret: I use Fountain Cosmetics moisture hair mask for extra softness and shine. Available here.

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Rooftop bar, W Hotel with the view on Admiralty building, Saint Petersburg

2. Red lipstick. Forget about pink, orange or purple. Forget about lighter or darker shades. Power play the upcoming autumn melancholy with a beauty statement. Red will make you irresistible in any circumstances and in any weather. Think red!

Secret: Red lips by Feral Cosmetics, semi-matt Envy. Available here.

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Feral instinct

3. Lace it. There is no bad weather! Whether it’s sunny or rainy, dry or muddy put your comfort first because heels are killers (in every context). Get a pair of funky laced sneakers and be a big city girl who values independency and time. Own that walk!

Secret: I love shoe hunting at Farfetch for their all-time discounts.

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St. Isaac’s Cathedral, St. Petersburg

4. Fashion forward. Splash your outfit with a little colour. Play with a scarf, long necklace or umbrella (your choice) or use your fantasy and creativity to enhance the “every day in a coat” look. Experiment with your individuality and you’ll never look back.

Secret: I love scarfs by the upcoming designer Kris Jane. Available here.

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Nevsky avenue, St. Petersburg

5. Trench that trend. They say elegance is attitude, but a classy trench coat on a rare sunny day will be as impressive. Plus it may save you from an unexpected rain and annoying paparazzi by softly camouflaging you in the 19th century architecture. A good trench coat gently wraps around your curves, hiding some of your secrets and keeping open what is needed to be seen. Add shady shades for a super cool spy look.

Secret: I’m wearing trench coat by Elementy Simple wear . Available here.

6. Candy it up. The fun of wearing layers is an opportunity to sneak in a fancy piece and shine it at the right moment. There is always that special dress that reminds you of sunshine, summer secret affairs or an exotic vacation. Be the eye candy, get noticed. You are awesome!

Secret: I’m wearing “Pink pearls for my girl” silk dress. Available here.

7. Polish it. For the rainy day at the museum (I ended up strolling through a spectacular art collection at Hermitage) opt for a “good-girl” look with focus on beige tones and natural fabrics. Play the cliche element of your outfit right and every photo you take can easily be a page from a glossy magazine.

Secret: I love Ruelala.com for style inspiration.

8. Warm coat. Never underestimate tricky autumn weather and invest in a comfy, yet warm cashmere coat. Apart from saving you from sneezing, it has all the opportunity to turn into a timeless and favorite forever piece. Choose a flirty cut and pay attention to the fabric. It has to be either cashmere, wool or a mix of those two. No compromises!

Secret: Aritzia offers awesome selection of coats (especially when they are on sale). Contact Canadian customer care for worldwide delivery.

9. Heavy military coat. Military design is as hot as ever. A heavy maxi coat tailored to compliment your curves or tiny waist is a must for those special nights out to the ballet or daytime downtown walking sprees. The best part – you can wear whatever underneath, including a naughty bodysuit, this coat will keep your warm!

Secret: A tiny purse with metallic details will add a little sparkle. I love DVF handbags (keep an eye for price cuts), not to mention her statement coats. Available here. 

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10. Stockings. This one is quite simple. Say no to nudes and instead welcome opaques with microfibre in brown, grey, black or maybe cosmic red. When the weather behaves show up in fishnet tights in all unimaginable shades.

That’s it! You’re ready.

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