October 2018

October 2018 Product Empties

October 31, 2018

Hi Everyone!
Happy Hallowe’en! Here are this month’s product empties.
Dove Advanced Hair Series Regenerative Nourishment Serum-in-Oil (read my review) – I don’t do a lot of things to my hair, so it’s in pretty good shape. I don’t think I really need a hair oil, but I think every now and then I’d use a hair mask. This did make my hair feel soft, so if you need something to help smooth and soften your hair, I’d recommend this.

Repurchase? Probably not.

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil – I got a little sample of this and it lasted a long time (probably because I liked it and I was saving it until I bought another). I mostly used it on and around my nose to moisturize those areas. It could sometimes look cakey in those areas after a few hours of wearing foundation. So, I learned to be light-handed with it and make sure it absorbed before applying my makeup on top.

Repurchase? Absolutely. Although, right now, I’m using the Tarte Maracuja Oil instead (it’s cheaper because it has more in the bottle for the price).

Milani Keep It Sweet Sugar Scrub (read my review) – Initially, I really liked it, but I realized it was kind of just moving the loose skin on my lips back and forth instead of actually scrubbing it off. I would rather use a warm, wet cloth to exfoliate or use the elf lip scrub.

Repurchase? No.

Sonia Roselli Water Balm (read my review) – When I first got this, I used way too much of it. I learned that a smaller scoop went a long way because when you rub your hands together, it turns to water beads.

Repurchase? Absolutely!

Bobbi Brown Intensive Long Wear Makeup Remover – This was a really good makeup remover, but there are tons of drugstore brands that are more affordable. I only had this because I got it free when I purchased a palette from Nordstrom.

Repurchase? No.

First Aid Hello FAB Coconut Skin Smoothie Priming Moisturizer – I don’t really love the smell of this. I’d rather get the Sonia Roselli Water Balm if I’m going to get a 2-in-1 moisturizer and primer.

Repurchase? No.
Live Clean Biotin Extra Body Shampoo & Conditioner – This shampoo says it thickens and volumizes. While I could use some volume in my hair, it definitely doesn’t need to be thicker. I liked the smell of this shampoo and conditioner. I didn’t really notice if it did, in fact, thicken and volumize my hair. I noticed that this conditioner was the thickest of the Live Clean conditioners I tried.

Repurchase? No, my hair is already thick.

Garnier Skin Active Micellar Water (Waterproof) – This micellar water is great to remove makeup. Although, it does have an oily feeling. So, if you prefer not to have that feeling, get the pink one that’s not for removing waterproof makeup.

Repurchase? Absolutely, but I want to try other micellar waters.
Shiseido Benefiance Extra Creamy Cleansing Foam – This had some type of bead in it which I didn’t like. If I’m using a foamy cleanser, I want it to be nice and smooth. This was very fragranced and I’m not sure if my skin had a reaction from it.

Repurchase? No.

Earth Therapeutics Purifying Foot Scrub – I bought this a loooong time ago at Winners. It’s a good scrub and it made my feet and hands feel smooth, but I don’t know if they still sell it. One thing that I didn’t like is that it was really hard to squeeze out product, I don’t know if it was a flaw in the design or something, but I always had to use both hands to squeeze out the scrub.

Repurchase? Probably not.

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Foaming Scrub – I think this was an old formula, so it still had the plastic beads to exfoliate. I was using it every day which was too much for me. If I use it a few times a week, I think it would’ve been okay. I didn’t really love this product.

Repurchase? Probably not.

The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Body Wash – This product worked well. It concerned me that it said not to use on the face though- how much stronger is it than their other tea tree products?

Repurchase? Possibly.
Essence Get BIG! Lashes Triple Black Mascara (read my review) – This mascara does darken and volumize my lashes…and it’s a great price! The brush is just too big for my lashes.

Repurchase? No.

Inglot x Jennifer Lopez Lipglossy Lip Gloss in Pinky (read my review) – This is a beautiful lip gloss shade, but it’s so expensive and I don’t really like that it’s scented.

Repurchase? No.

Bobbi Brown Intensive Skin Serum Concealer in Warm Ivory – I did not like this concealer. I would rather get a drugstore one than use this one. I got a bit of a reaction from using this concealer under my eyes. When I swatched on my hand and blended it out, it would look beautiful, but when I used it under my eyes, it would just look terrible. I’m glad I didn’t pay full price for this (bought it at the MAC Warehouse Sale).

Repurchase? NO.

Maybelline Fit Me Shine-Free Balance Stick Foundation in 130 Buff Beige (read my review) – I actually really loved this foundation (I think I preferred it to the liquid Fit Me). It lasted throughout the day on hot summer days. Of course, I would still get shiny in the t-zone, but it still looked really good after 8 hours of wear. I don’t know how it would do on someone with oily skin, but it worked great on my normal-dry skin. I’ve compared it to the Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation stick (read my review).

Repurchase? If I were going to continue buying drugstore foundations, I would definitely buy this again.

bareMinerals BAREPRO Performance Wear Powder Foundation in Cashmere – This was a sample size and I really liked using it to pop in my purse (because of the size of the sample) for spot conceal touch-ups. I also liked using it to clean up my brows.

Repurchase? I prefer loose powder foundations, but I would definitely consider bareMinerals.

OPI Mini Nail Lacquer in Tickle My France-y – I love this colour, it’s a pinky-purple shade. I have to declutter this mini because the polish was starting to get really thick when I painted it onto my nails.

Repurchase? Yes.

What did you finish this month?

Love,

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October 2018 Faves

October 29, 2018

Hi Everyone!

Here are October’s favourites! I’ve also added some non-beauty faves at the bottom of the post. Keep reading to find out what I’ve been enjoying this month 🙂
Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Airbrush Foundation in Light-Neutral – I have been absolutely LOOOOVING this foundation, although the shade I chose is a bit dark for me. I’ve used it several times now and it looks like I have a filter on my face because it just blurs out my pores. For about a year, I was having trouble deciding which powder foundation I wanted to try and finally chose this one and I’m so happy I did! I wore it yesterday and I wore it for about five hours and it didn’t break up on my chin or nose (yay!) and my bronzer, blush and highlight layer beautifully on top. I use a kabuki brush and take my time to blend the foundation out so it doesn’t get cakey (one time I wore it, it did get a bit cakey). It did get a bit shiny on my forehead, but that’s to be expected.
I love multi-layer cotton pads from The Face Shop. They’re so handy for toner and each pad is 5 layers. I’ve been looking into making reusable pads because as nice as these are, the multi-layer cotton pads can be expensive. I also love these cotton swabs from Winners (just a random brand) that have a pointed end and a flat end. The pointy end is great for cleaning up your winged liner. The flat end is great for using my Clinique acne gel and also it’s easier to use for removing nail polish (for those harder to reach corners that a cotton pad can’t get).

I’m really liking this Thayers Witch Hazel Cucumber Toner! It smells refreshing and I’ve been using it in the morning. I’m so glad I spotted this at Winners last month. I’ve poured some into a spray bottle so I can use it as a facial spray. I checked the Thayers website and both the toner and the facial spray have the exact same ingredients, so I’m assuming that it’s the same product in a different bottle.

I broke out while I was using the Witch Hazel Toner.

Read about my experience here!
I guess it’s a Tarte Appreciation month. I have been loving this Timeless Smoothing Primer. I have a Limited Edition one, so the lid is different than the regular primer (which has a gold lid). Check out my full review on the primer.

5 Songs I’ve Been Listening To

These weren’t necessarily released this month, but I discovered them this month.

After hearing this song on Tati’s Halo Launch Party Video, I have been listening to this song non-stop: Ruelle – Hold Your Breath. After listening to some of her other songs and reading comments, someone mentioned The Originals. I looked it up and found out that this song is from 5×03. No wonder I like it. I’ve gotten so many songs from The Originals.

Rita Ora – Let You Love Me

Halsey – Without Me

Nick Jonas & Robin Schulz – Right Now

The Chainsmokers ft. Kelsea Ballerini – This Feeling

What were your faves from this month?

Love,

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Worth It? | Microfiber Hair Turban Towels

October 26, 2018
Hi Everyone!

I bought a 2-pack of Hair Turbans from Winners for $10. They’re from a brand called Tru Spa. I thought I’d give it a try because my hair is long and I dry my hair all the time. I don’t do much else to my hair, so it’s okay for me to dry it all the time.

Gently dry hair faster with extra-absorbent TRU SPA Turban Hair Towels. Soft microfiber absorbs moisture to cut down on blow drying, while keeping hair up and away from face.
- easy to use
- one size fits all
- perfect for all hair types
- reduces blow drying time
- simply twist, flip and button
- for use at home, gym & more
As I was looking up hair turbans online for this post, I realized I’m an idiot and I was using them BACKWARDS! I had been putting the button in the front. I used it twice and each time I was like, “this is so difficult…this must be better for people with shorter hair”…nope, just using it wrong.

Lol, you would think that it would’ve occurred to me that when you do a hair turban with a regular towel, the twist is in the FRONT. But, no, this did not occur to me. I did notice that it did absorb a lot of water from my hair (even when I was using it wrong). In my defense, I have seen pictures of hair turbans where the button is in the front. The hair turban is about 10x lighter than a regular bath towel. It’s probably better for my hair line too because I’ve worried my heavy towel has been pulling at my hair and changing how my hair lies on my head. I already have a fairly large forehead, I can’t afford to have a receding hair line.

Once I started using it correctly, it did dry my hair a lot faster because it wasn’t bunched up into a ball on top of my head. It works well if you come out your hair before putting the turban on.
RATING: 4/5

I give it a high rating because it does work well, but do I think they’re worth it? No. I think it would be better to just buy some microfiber material at a fabric store and maybe make them yourself or buy microfiber towels. At $5 a turban, I don’t think these are worth it.

Love,
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Review | Tarte Timeless Smoothing Primer

October 24, 2018

Hi Everyone!

Today’s review is on the Tarte Timeless Smoothing Primer! I bought this because it’s one of Tati’s favourite primers. When it comes to flawless looking makeup, I can always rely on Tati’s recommendations. I love getting recommendations from Beauty YouTubers. They try so many different products and brands, so if they have a favourite, then you know it must be good. Of course, not everything they love will be something I love too, but sometimes you just have to give it a try. So, when I bought some products from Tarte, I popped this into my cart. Keep reading to find out what I have to say about this primer!

The one that I bought is the Limited Edition (LE) one. The packaging is different, but I checked and the ingredients are the same as the regular primer from the permanent collection. The LE primer comes in a frosted glass pot that has a pink and green glittery lid. Although the top of the lid looks glittery, it’s smooth. The regular primer comes with a gold lid. Personally, I prefer the gold because it looks more luxe than the LE, but the LE was on sale for $9 less.

It’s quite expensive for such a little pot at $47 CAD, but hopefully it lasts a long time (assuming it doesn’t dry out or anything). You really don’t need very much especially if you’re only priming certain areas of your face. I only prime the areas that have larger pores.
This skincare-infused primer with innovative blurring & filling technology gives a more youthful appearance while prepping the skin for makeup. Formulated to fade out your biggest beauty boundaries such as large pores, fine lines and wrinkles. Antioxidant-rich formula gently melts into the skin delivering a surge of moisture, peptides and other naturally-derived elixirs for a firmer, smoother appearance. Has a lightweight texture and fresh powder scent as it provides the perfect blank canvas to enhance the look and wear time of makeup.

When I first opened it, I was looking at it and went in to sniff it. I tilted the pot a bit and the all of the primer plopped out (in one blob) of the pot. Luckily, it only fell onto my chair and I quickly picked it up and popped it back in. I pressed it down a bit so that it would stay, but now I know not to do that just in case. I am a bit worried that since it comes in a pot and it’s exposed to the air whenever I open it, it will dry out faster. By the way, it has a scent that smells kind of citrus-y.

I noticed that it takes a little more effort to work this primer into the skin than other smoothing primers I’ve tried (Smashbox and MUFE). I use my finger to pick up a very small amount (just enough to coat the pad of my finger) and then I use a finger from my other hand to warm it up a bit. Since this primer is a bit thicker than others I’ve used, I’ve found that I can’t just press it into the skin. I need to press and also spread it a bit to make sure there’s no clumps. The consistency is kind of like butter, so it’s like you’re spreading butter onto toast in small strokes. With other smoothing primers, you have to make sure to press it into your skin, but you can’t rub them or they will pill. With this primer, you need to smooth it out a bit.

I’ve used this with both liquid and powder foundation and it makes my makeup look flawless. It really does blur pores and make your skin look super smooth. It doesn’t claim to extend the wear of foundation or anything, but my Tarte Amazonian Clay Airbrush Foundation still looked flawless after being on for hours.
RATING: 5/5

This primer is definitely on my faves list!

Have you tried this primer yet?

Love,

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Sephora 2018 Wishlist

October 22, 2018

Hi Everyone!

I decided to do No Buy October (no makeup or skincare products) in preparation for the Sephora sales. I didn’t realize there would be a sale so soon! I think I will spread out my purchases across the upcoming sales. I will buy the things I NEED during the first one and then things I WANT later.

I have quite a few products on my wishlist. I probably won’t buy everything on the list during the sale. Whatever I don’t buy, I will pick up during the sales next year. I have some favourites that I want to repurchase, but most of the products on the list are ones that I haven’t tried/purchased before.

I am on the fence about purchasing a Charlotte Tilbury product. I know I want to own Charlotte Tilbury products (lip cheat, lipstick, blush and airbrush powder), I just don’t know if I should purchase now or wait until my current makeup inventory has gone down.

…I think I will wait because I have a feeling that I will love the products I purchase and I won’t want to use anything else.

PRODUCTS I LOVE

Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo – I looove the smell of this! I got two compliments from my sister and aunt when I used it.

Clinique Even Better Eyes Dark Circle Corrector – I originally got this at the MAC Warehouse Sale, and I really liked it. The metal applicator felt very cooling when I applied it and it helped my under eyes feel moisturized.

Urban Decay Eye Shadow Primer Potion – This is a great eye shadow primer. If I’m finished my current one, I will replenish my stock.

PRODUCTS TO TRY

Becca Under Eye Brightening Corrector – I want an under eye product that brightens and doesn’t emphasize my dry under eyes.

Kopari Coconut Deodorant – I want to try a deodorant without aluminum and I’ve read some good reviews on it.

Origins Super Spot Remover Blemish Treatment Gel – I’ve used the Kate Somerville EradiKate and I wanted to try this one.

Waso Fresh Jelly Lotion – I tried this out in store and it smells nice and I love the texture of it.

Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation – I’ve heard amazing things about this and I really want to compare it to the Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick. I know they’re different finishes and coverage, but it’d be interesting to see how they compare.

Lancome Teint Idole Ultra Long Wear Foundation Stick – Before I wanted to get the Hourglass stick, I really wanted to try this because it’s a soft matte finish that feels so smooth when I swatch it on my hand. I’m thinking of getting both sticks to compare them with the Bobbi Brown one.

Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Camouflage Concealer – I want to get this in the same shade as my foundation because then I don’t have to try and colour match a different brand’s concealer with my foundation.

Lancôme Brow Shaping Powdery Pencil – I haven’t seen a lot of reviews for this and I was at Sephora and swatched this. The strokes are even finer than the Benefit Precisely, My Brow, so I thought I’d give it a try.

WISHLIST FOR A FUTURE SEPHORA SALE

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder – I’ve heard amazing things about this powder. If it’s in stock, I’m going to grab this.

Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat – Again, if this is in stock, I will get it in Pillow Talk.

Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Long Wear Foundation – Lancôme foundations are beautiful and I wanted to get this one after trying a sample.

Click here to see what I got during the sale!

What’s on your wishlist?

Love,

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First Impressions with Waso Quick Matte Moisturizer Oil-Free

October 19, 2018
Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m reviewing the Waso Quick Matte Moisturizer Oil-Free. After finishing the Water Balm (read my review) from Sonia Roselli, I started using the Waso moisturizer. If you want to see what else is in my skincare rotation, click here!

I bought it during the Sephora Beauty Appreciation Sale a while back. Originally, I bought this for my mom. Even though the brand is geared toward Millennials like me, I thought I would get it for her because she has oily skin. She decided to go with the Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Day Emulsion instead.

Waso is a line from Shiseido. Since it’s geared toward people in their 20s and 30s, Waso’s products are less expensive than Shiseido’s. It’s similar to Dior BACKSTAGE being slightly more affordable than the main Dior brand.

I like the packaging; it’s a translucent light green bottle that reminds me of jade. I don’t really know why the lid has the hole in the packaging (like a water bottle). I feel like it’s a bit unnecessary; it’s not like I’m going to be carrying my moisturizer around, carrying it by the loop like I do with my water bottles. I like that it comes with a pump and the packaging is very simple, yet classic.

My skin is on the drier side, so I’m probably not the best to review this product based on how well it mattifies my skin. When I use this, my skin does look matte, but not dry. It dries down a bit tacky.

I love the gel consistency of this moisturizer, but the scent is a bit too floral for me. When I was at Sephora, I tested out another product from the Waso line, the Fresh Jelly Lotion. I can’t remember what the scent was like, but I would be interested in trying that if the scent isn’t as strong.
An oil-free, oil-balancing gel emulsion to instantly mattify and balance skin with 24-hour hydration. Smooths and hydrates skin with a shine-reducing, sebum-absorbing powder to maintain a matte look. The dewy texture feels refreshing and leaves skin feeling smooth, hydrated and less shiny. Formulated with whole Loquat Leaf Cells, which are carefully extracted to keep their wholeness harnessed for an anti-oxidant effect and to help balance skin’s oil levels. Loquat Leaf has an antioxidant effect that is known to help suppress sebum breakdown.

For dry, oily, normal, combination and sensitive skin. Dermatologist-tested. Non-comedogenic. Paraben-free. Oil-free.
- PhytoResist System+ uses the power of botanicals to help heighten skin’s resistance to internal and external stressors while also infusing rich moisture.
- Sebum Absorbing Powder helps absorb excess sebum for smooth, non-oily skin, while minimizing visible pores.
RATING: 4/5

Have you tried anything from Waso?

Love,
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My Skincare Rotation

October 15, 2018

Hi Everyone!

I thought I would do a post to show you what’s on rotation for my everyday skincare. The skincare products I use are pretty basic. I don’t use a lot of acids because I know that some don’t pair well together and it’s easier for me to just not use too many. I do use salicylic acid for acne and there’s Glycolic Acid in the Pixi Glow Tonic, but that’s all I use.

Let’s start with my every day cleanser: The Body Shop Aloe Vera Gentle Foaming Wash. It’s a very gentle cleanser that hasn’t irritated my skin. At least once a week, I exfoliate using the Soo’Ae Purifying Brightening Peeling Gel or the Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Frxxxtion Stick 3-in-1 Exfoliating Cleanser.

Once I’ve cleansed, I move on to toners. I’ve been using Pixi Glow Tonic. I use it in the morning and at night after I’ve washed my face. I really love it and it has become a staple in my skincare. I used to use it every day twice a day (AM/PM), but since it exfoliates the face, I don’t use it every day because I have sensitive skin and since I also use other exfoliators, I don’t want to over-exfoliate.

I picked up the Thayers Alcohol-Free Cucumber Witch Hazel Toner from Winners. I’ve been using it in the morning and I can see why everyone loves the toners from Thayers. I also bought the Unscented one too, but I’ll wait until I’m finished this one before opening that one up.

I also use the The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil Skin Clearing Mattifying Toner. The smell is quite strong, so I only use this at night time or on days I’m not leaving the house. I will also use the The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil on days I’m not leaving the house because it has an even stronger smell. I was surprised when I first used the tea tree oil because it isn’t oily like other oils I’ve used. It’s similar to another product from The Body Shop that I used to use (I don’t think it’s available anymore, but it was the Anti-Imperfection Daily Solution).

To moisturize, I will alternate between using my Sonia Roselli Water Balm (read my review) and Tarte Maracuja Oil. I use both products in AM and PM. They’re also both great to use as primers before applying makeup. I would use the Water Balm to moisturize the skin and then use a smoothing primer to minimize pores. I also use the Maracuja Oil as a primer to hydrate my nose (and around it), and my under eyes if they’re looking dry. I will take a drop or two and make sure it has absorbed into the skin well before applying my makeup. Lately, I have also been using the Maracuja Oil on my hands and feet before bed (with cotton gloves and socks). It’s made my hands super smooth and helped clear up some dry patches on my knuckles.

I just emptied the Water Balm, so I have been using the Waso Quick Matte Oil-Free Moisturizer (read my review). I love the consistency of it (gel), but I’m not a huge fan of the smell. It’s a bit too floral for me. I will keep using it and write a full review, but I don’t think it will be a new skincare staple of mine.

For my under eyes, I’ve been using the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream (Eyes) (read my review), but it’s not a favourite of mine and I won’t be picking up another. For my lips, I just use Vaseline Jelly Original. Before getting the Maracuja Oil, I would use the Vaseline to moisturize my hands by slathering it all over and then putting cotton gloves on. I’m glad I have the oil now because it absorbs faster than the vaseline and doesn’t stain my gloves and bedsheets.

For sleeping masks, I use the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask (read my review). I will use this once a week (when I remember). I also have The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil Anti-Imperfection Night Mask, I’ve used it once so far and it definitely helped bring some pimples out.

When I feel a pimple coming, I will use the Clinique Acne Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel. If there’s a whitehead, I will pop on a COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch (read my review).

My skincare routine is fairly simple. Since I have sensitive skin, I prefer gel-like products that are light. Heavy creams don’t seem to react well with my skin. I’ve found that these products have been working for me, so why add more when I don’t need it. Every now and then, I will pop on a sheet mask too.

What’s in your skincare rotation?

Love,

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This or That | BCL SPA Lavender + Mint Sugar Scrub vs. The Body Shop Pink Grapefruit Exfoliating Gel Body Scrub

October 12, 2018

Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m comparing two different types and also two different brands of body scrubs. There are a few different types: sugar, coffee, salt, herbal, etc. I’m comparing sugar scrubs with a fruit scrub (this isn’t what it’s called, but since it’s made of fruit and uses orange peel and corncob granules, I’m going to call it a fruit scrub).

I haven’t tried coffee, salt or herbal scrubs. I did try a DIY coffee scrub, but I don’t think I did it right and it got SOOO messy. I think any coffee scrub is going to be really messy and I don’t think I’ll like it for that reason.
The Body Shop Pink Grapefruit Exfoliating Gel Body Scrub – I thought this was the old formula that they used to have (the sugar scrub). So, it was a surprise to find that it was a gel-based scrub.

Revitalize and soften your skin using an invigorating, gel-based scrub with gently exfoliating orange peel and corncob granules. Pink grapefruit seed oil provides essential fatty acids to repair skin’s moisture barrier, so it feels smooth and supple. Community Trade organic honey moisturizes and conditions skin.
BCL SPA Lavender + Mint Sugar Scrub – I won this in a giveaway, so I don’t know how easy it is to get this in the US. It looks like it’s a bit harder to get in Canada (or it’s really expensive on Amazon) because it’s for professionals only/wholesale. I really love it though.

Natural sugar suspended in certified organic oils create the base of our luxurious scrub for hands, feet and body. The sugar works to exfoliate dead cells from the skin, while our blend of precious Argan, Olive, Jojoba and Spearmint oils leave you velvety soft and glowing.
WINNER (Type): Sugar scrubs

WINNER (Brand): BCL SPA Lavender + Mint Sugar Scrub

I chose the BCL SPA sugar scrub because I just love how smooth my skin feels and I absolutely love the smell of the lavender and mint. I chose the sugar scrub as the winner because it doesn’t leave anything behind. If you have a warm bath/shower, the sugar easily dissolves. On the other hand, I don’t like the Pink Grapefruit one because the corncob granules are left behind in the shower. They still go down the drain, but I’m worried that it will help clog the pipes faster especially if hair is already stuck in there. Also, since sugar scrubs are thicker, I feel like I use the right amount needed, whereas with the fruit scrub, I scoop out too much. The pink grapefruit does have a nice refreshing scent, but since I take showers/baths at night, I want something more relaxing and calming instead of ‘WAKE UP!’

I think I will try making a DIY sugar scrub once I’ve finished these two body scrubs.

What type of body scrubs do you use?

Love,

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Review | Revlon Kiss Cushion Lip Tint

October 10, 2018

Hi Everyone!

I received the Revlon Kiss Cushion Lip Tint in Naughty Mauve complimentary from Topbox Circle.
• The look of a stain and comfort of a balm.
• Infused with coconut oil so lips feel moisturized and smooth.
• Pillowy soft cushion tip gives a touch of color and builds for more impact.
• Juicy tint with a balm-like finish, dries to a blotted lip look.

It glides on smoothly and feels very moisturizing from the coconut oil. It has a light vanilla scent which I don’t mind. The shade is a bit dark for my personal preference, but it’s a beautiful shade especially for fall.
I don’t love cushion products especially if it’s a lip product. The sponge is always wet because of the tint unless you wipe it off every time, but then you waste a lot of product. I also feel like because you have a sponge, you’re twisting a lot more product out than you need.

RATING: 4/5

Have you tried the Revlon Kiss Cushion Lip Tint?

Love,

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Review | Bourjois Twist Up The Volume Mascara

October 8, 2018

Hi Everyone!

Happy Thanksgiving to my fellow Canadians!! I have another mascara review for you today! This was my first time trying a Bourjois product. My friend gave it to me and I assume she got it as a free gift with purchase or something.

It’s really interesting because you twist the top and the wand can go from long and straight to shorter and coiled like DNA ← this is probably the extent of ‘science-y talk’ that I will have on my blog.
Twist Up The Volume Mascara in Ultra Black

1 TRANSFORMABLE BRUSH WITH 2 RESULTS: DEFINED LENGTH + OVERSIZED VOLUME Two transformable brushes in one! Use position 1 to lengthen and separate lashes. Use position 2 to volumize and intensify lashes. Its ultra black formula quickly builds full coverage and volume on every single lash.

It’s kind of funny. The fact that you can twist the top part so that the wand is straight or coiled makes me think of going to the eye doctor. Is it a 1 or a 2…1 or a 2? The mascara coats the lashes nicely and it doesn’t look clumpy. The mascara will transfer a bit if you rub your lashes. When I applied the mascara, my lashes were curled. After a few hours, the lashes on my left eye were straight and the lashes on my right eye were a bit curled, but not as much as when I initially applied it. For some reason, the lashes on my right eye can hold a curl better.

The wand definitely give you two different results. When it’s in position 1 (straight), it separates the lashes and makes them look very natural. In position 2 (coiled), you can definitely tell that it intensifies the lashes and gives you a thicker coat of mascara. So, you can get a natural look or smokey look with just one mascara. I think I prefer the natural look on myself. I don’t like when it looks like I’m wearing mascara or when I can feel the mascara weighing my lashes down.
RATING: 4/5

I like the silicone brush and I like the fact that you can get two different looks in one mascara. I think this would be worth splurging on because it’s the same as buying two cheaper drugstore brand mascaras.

Have you tried Bourjois products?

Love,

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Review | Essence Get BIG! Lashes Triple Black Mascara

October 5, 2018

Hi Everyone!

I realized I haven’t done a review in a while. Oops! So, here’s my latest review on an Essence mascara.

After trying out the Essence Volume Stylist 18hr Lash Extension, I thought I would try other Essence mascaras to see how they compare. Essence mascaras are so affordable, they’re about $4-$6! This one that I’m reviewing was $3.99 at Shoppers Drug Mart. Essence mascaras, I believe, only come in one colour: black.

Although I love Essence mascaras, they don’t come in plastic packaging (like Maybelline and L’Oréal ones). So, that means they could easily be opened in store, exposed to bacteria and also dry out faster. I know some Shoppers have started to put tape on products that come without packaging to prevent people from swatching/using products which is good, but then you get that stupid tape residue and using oil doesn’t always get it all off. Anyway, I’ll stop ranting about the packaging, and get on to the review of the actual mascara!

Essence Get BIG! Lashes Triple Black Mascara

Black, blacker, triple black! This is the deep black mascara in the popular get BIG! Lashes family by Essence. The large, innovative fiber brush offers maximum volume and adds density to your lashes. Its carbon black texture ensures an expressive look with a triple black effect!
The brush on this is really fat. It’s a bit difficult for me to use (I definitely can’t use it on my bottom lashes). The mascara does darken my lashes and they felt natural. Some mascaras make your lashes stiff and I don’t like that. I wore it for 6 hours and it didn’t smudge at all. After the mascara dried, I gently rubbed my lashes to see if it transferred and it didn’t. It removes easily with micellar water.

RATING: 3.5/5

I’d rather pay $1-2 more and get the 18hr Lash Extension Mascara. I’m still searching for a mascara that will keep a curl once I use my lash curler. By the end of the day, my lashes are usually weighed down and go back to being stick straight.

Have you tried Essence mascaras? What’s your fave?

Love,

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Bobbi Brown | My Hits & Misses

October 3, 2018

Hi Everyone!

These are my faves and not so favourite products from Bobbi Brown. I’ve done a Hits & Misses post for other brands, check them out below:

MAKEUP || Primers | Foundations | Powders | Concealers | Brows | Mascara

SKINCARE || Eye Creams

BRANDS || L’Oréal | Maybelline | Nude by Nature | NYX | TULA | Volition Beauty

Before you read this post, please remember that we all have difference preferences and skin types. These are MY hits, misses and likes. You might love something I don’t like or dislike something I love.

I realized I have tried quite a lot of Bobbi Brown products and I thought I would share my hits and misses from the brand. Of course, I might not like something that someone else loves and vice versa, but keep reading to hear my thoughts on the products I’ve purchased over the past year. Surprisingly, I think Bobbi Brown is the brand that I have the most products from (I originally thought it was Tarte, but after doing this post, it’s Bobbi). All products were purchased by me (the majority were purchased at the MAC Warehouse Sale). Let’s start with my favourites!
HITS

Skin Foundation Stick in Ivory 0.75 – This shade is too light for me, but I really liked this stick foundation. I really want to try other sticks to compare (like the Hourglass and Lancome ones), but this has a very nice finish and I would sometimes use it as concealer and dab the areas that needed a bit of coverage. Update: They’ve changed the corresponding numbers of the shades. I don’t know if they’ve reformulated, but I’m assuming Ivory is still the same shade. The corresponding number has changed from 0.75 to C-024.

Smokey Eye Mascara – I loved this mascara. The wand was the perfect size and it separated my lashes nicely. It made my lashes look natural, yet added some oomph.

Luxe Lipstick in Brocade – My grandma uses this and it’s her favourite lipstick out of 4 lipsticks that we boughht for her (NARS, Sephora and Urban Decay). It’s a beautiful purple-y pink and it looks really good on her.

Instant Long-Wear Makeup Remover – I liked this, but it’s expensive and I’m sure I can get one that performs equally well for a cheaper price.

LIKES

There are a few products that I didn’t mind, but didn’t love either:

Blushes in French Pink and Nectar – They are pretty shades, just not for me.

Bronzing Powder in Medium – Too dark for me.

Rich Lip Color in Bare Pink – This is a really pretty nude-pink shade with a satin finish (it’s described on the website as a beige).

Lip Color in Sandwash Pink – I hear Princess Kate wears this shade. It was a beautiful shade, just not for me.

Tube Tint in Naked – My mom uses this and she really likes it. I think she also likes how it’s a squeeze tube, so it’s easier to keep clean and it’s more hygienic than lip glosses with wands.

Eyeshadows – The eyeshadows are good and blend well, but I think if you’re going to buy a high-end eyeshadow palette, you should get an Urban Decay or Anastasia Beverly Hills one (a brand that’s known for their eyeshadows).

The Bobbi On Trend: Eyes and Cheek Palette – This was an impulse buy. I saw it at the Nordstrom sale for $120 and I had to have it. I didn’t do my research and that was my downfall. Next time I buy a palette, I will be making sure I love it before taking the plunge.

Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Black Ink – I am terrible at doing winged liner and I prefer kohl liner, but I got this for free when bought the Bobbi On Trend palette at the Nordstrom sale. I gave it to my friend so she’d get better use out of it. So, this goes in the IN BETWEEN section because I just don’t do wings and if I put liner on my lid, then I usually smoke it out (that’s why pencil liners are better for me). Performance-wise, I think this was an okay liner? I’m not really sure.
Lip Gloss in Rose Sugar 3
MISSES

Long Wear Cream Eye Shadow in Galaxy – This was so patchy and had no pigment. I don’t know if it’s because I bought it at the MAC Warehouse Sale or it got hot and melted or something because it’s so soft. Maybe if you have a different shade, it would do better, but this looked terrible on me. It didn’t blend well and it set fairly quickly, so when you tried to blend, you’d create a bald spot. I tried using this as a base for dark powder shadow, but the powder was not layering over it well.

Lip Gloss in Rose Sugar 3 -This lip gloss has shimmer in it. My mom used this one too and she didn’t like it at all. It was so sticky that her hair would get stuck on her lips. Also, you know when you talk and you get that trail of lip gloss between your lips? It did that.

Intensive Skin Serum Concealer in Warm Ivory – I think this was breaking me out. It’s really weird because when I swatched it, it looked beautiful and blended nicely on my hand, but when I put it under my eyes, it just wasn’t giving me that seamless application I wanted.

Nude Finish Illuminating Powder in Bare – This is a translucent powder with shimmer in it and I don’t like it. It just makes me look like I put highlighter ALL over my face. If this were just a translucent powder, I’d love it because it did look really beautiful without the shimmer.

Illuminating Bronzing Powder in Halo – I don’t like this highlighter. It’s chunky and has glitter in it which gets EVERYWHERE.
Out of all the products, I would consider purchasing the Skin Foundation Stick in my shade. I think that’s the only product I would consider repurchasing. I hope I haven’t offended anyone who is a Bobbi Brown lover and I hope I also didn’t put anyone off the brand. I love Bobbi Brown packaging and they have a lot of great products, but I just don’t think the products work for me.

What are your hits & misses from Bobbi Brown?

Love,

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September 2018 Product Empties

October 1, 2018

Hi Everyone!

This month I went through a lot of products! So, let’s get started!
Bioré Blemish Fighting Astringent – This would sometimes sting my skin (even if I didn’t have a pimple. The alcohol content was very high and would make my eyes water.

Repurchase? No.

belif bergamot Toner – This was a very nice, gentle toner.

Repurchase? Maybe.

Spectro AcneCare Wash – This was a great acne wash that wasn’t too strong.

Repurchase? Yes.

COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches (read my review) – Cannot get enough of these patches, they’re amazing!

Repurchase? Yes.

Clinique Pep-Start Quick Cleansing Swipes – These were gentle and removed makeup okay.

Repurchase? No longer available, I believe.

The Face Shop Clean Face Clear Away Spot Treatment (read my review) – This wasn’t very strong, I would rather buy the Kate Somerville eradiKate or Mario Badescu Drying Lotion.

Repurchase? Probably not.

The Face Shop Jeju Volcanic Lava Self-Heating Clay Mask (read my review) – This was interesting. The self-heating factor might be good for body aches (although it would be a bit messy).

Repurchase? Probably not.
Live Clean Baby Colloidal Oatmeal Eczema Cream – This cream definitely smelled like oatmeal. I don’t know if it did anything to help. I was using it when I didn’t have any eczema flare ups.

Repurchase? Probably not, I would rather get a Cetaphil cream bottle.

got2be Guardian Angel Gloss Finish Flat Iron Balm – I have only ever tried 2 heat protectant sprays, but this did the job and made my hair look glossy.

Repurchase? I have.

Remay Shave Gel Bar – I received this for free and while it smelled nice and was very nice to shave with, I probably wouldn’t purchase it.

Repurchase? Probably not.

Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo – I got this in a Topbox and I knew it was expensive so I kept not using this little bottle. I love the smell of this dry shampoo and I got compliments twice when using it that I smelled nice.

Repurchase? I finally splurged and bought a new one. I got a mini because the big size was out of stock.

Live Clean Mineral Clay Rebalancing Shampoo + Conditioner – I liked this shampoo and conditioner.

Repurchase? Maybe.
Coastal Scents Eclipse Palette (read my review) – This is a good concealer palette if you’re just starting out and don’t want to splurge. You can use it to colour correct, conceal and contour.

Repurchase? No, because Coastal Scents charges shipping to Canada.

Colourpop No Filter Concealer in Light 20 – This concealer was bought before they added more shades, so there’s no longer a shade called Light 20. This concealer was okay for me. It oxidized really quickly. I would rather get Maybelline Fit Me Concealer since that’s easier for me to pick up.

Repurchase? No.

Milani Retouch + Erase Light-Lifting Concealer in 02 Light – This is a thick concealer that blends out nicely. I wasn’t sure if I would like it because I thought it might cause creasing under my eyes, but I wore it for over 8 hours and it didn’t crease

Repurchase? Maybe.
Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer (Colour Correcting- Adjust) (read my review) – This did nothing to cover redness.

Repurchase? No.

Nude by Nature Perfecting Primer (read my review) – This was an okay primer, I didn’t love it and didn’t hate it.

Repurchase? No.

Make Up For Ever Step 1 Equalizer Primer (Smoothing) – This is one of my fave smoothing primers.

Repurchase? Yes.

Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation in Y245 – This was a great foundation, but the shade was too yellow. I think I’d need to mix two shades with different undertones to get the right match.

Repurchase? Maybe.

Burt’s Bees Goodness Glows Liquid Foundation in 1025 Natural Beige (read my review) – Because this foundation is very natural, it washed away easily with water. I didn’t like the smell of it either and it lingered after applying it.

Repurchase? No.

Fenty Pro’Filtr Soft Matte Longwear Foundation in 150 – This was too matte for me. While it was beautiful, I prefer something more luminous and natural.

Repurchase? No.
Coastal Scents Revealed3 Palette (read my review) – These had some great neutral colours if you’re starting out with eyeshadows.

Repurchase? No.

Urban Decay troublemaker Mascara – This deluxe sample was hard to judge the full-sized because it was such a short stick, I couldn’t apply the mascara very well to my lashes.

Repurchase? No.

Bella Pierre Cheek Stain in Coral – It was pretty, but I feel like I never gave it a fair shot. I think I’d prefer a cheek stain that twists up or in a pan instead of a pot.

Repurchase? No.

Burt’s Bees Nourishing Mascara – While this was easy to wash off, it didn’t do much for my lashes.

Repurchase? No.

bareMinerals Gen Nude Radiant Lipstick in Tutu – It was a pretty pink shade, but a bit too pale pink on me. I might consider buying a different shade.

Repurchase? Probably not.

Dior Addict Lipstick in 983 Insoumise – My mom bought this for my sister’s wedding, but it was way too pink for her and had shimmer in it, so she gave it to me. It’s a beautiful pink shade, but it’s a bit too pink for me too. I would sort of do an ombré lip with this on top of a nude/pink lipstick and it added the perfect amount of shine and pink.

Repurchase? Not this shade, but I loved how hydrating this lipstick was, so I would definitely consider getting the Dior Addict Lip Glow or purchasing a different shade.

What products did you finish this month?

Love,

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5 Songs I’ve Been Listening To

HITS

LIKES

MISSES