July 2019

First Impressions with Urban Juve |#sponsored

July 31, 2019

Hi Everyone!
Today’s post is brought to you by Urban Juve! I am sharing my first impressions with Urban Juve skincare. I received their Hemp Daily Ritual Kit (Vitalize) which includes 5 products.
Urban Juve makes natural wellness products infused with hemp.
Our approach is based in Ayurveda, one of the oldest holistic healing systems in the world. All our products are formulated by an experienced Ayurvedic practitioner and clinical researcher. Each is designed to meet the nutritional needs of the skin.
They are the first skincare company in Canada to use Hemp Root Oil. Their products contain NO dyes, artificial fragrances, sulfates SLS and SLES, parabens, phthalates and other toxic fillers. See the full list of ingredients that their products DON’T contain.
They have three kits depending on your skin type: Vitalize (for Dry Skin- deeply hydrating), Align (for Oily Skin- refreshing) and Balance (for all skin types- soothing and calming). Each kit contains: an Anti-Aging Serum, Lip Balm, Face Mist, Face Moisturizer and Daily Ritual Oil.
As you may know, I am very sensitive to scents. These are all natural and don’t have any added fragrances, but I can detect a scent in each of the five products. Since I am so sensitive to scents, I will rate all of the products based on their performance alone and also identify the key ingredient(s) that I can detect.
I’ve been incorporating the Urban Juve products into my skincare routine and here are my thoughts on each of the individual products:
Face Mist

The ultimate pick-me-up. This spray toner soothes and tones, while helping control excess oil and refresh acne-prone skin. Use throughout the day or as a first step before moisturizer. With a powerhouse combo of peppermint and aloe leaf, this formula reduces the look of puffiness and helps pores appear smaller. We add cucumber skin powder for its astringent properties, as well as our signature hemp root oil, which can help boost absorption.

Ingredients: Rosa Damascena (Rose) Flower Water, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Hemp Root Oil, Glycerin, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Sinensis (Sweet Orange) Peel Oil Expressed, Piper Nigrum (Black Pepper) Fruit Oil, Potassium Sorbate, Lactic Acid, Benzoic Acid

RATING: N/A

Key Scent: roses with a hint of spice (probably from the black pepper oil)

This has witch hazel in it which I am allergic to, so I had to pass this one along to a friend. It comes in an aerosol can that sprays more of a spurt than a fine spray. I think it would be great as a toner!

Lip Balm

This all-season balm softens and smooths chapped, rough lips. Made by blending beeswax and coconut oil with hemp seed and hemp root oil, this soothing formula creates a barrier that seals in moisture and protects against the elements. Expect a cool, refreshing feel.

Ingredients: Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Beeswax/Cire d’abeille, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Hemp Root Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Polysorbate 60, Tocopherol, Menthol, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, Aroma

RATING: 5/5

Key Scent: Peppermint oil

This lip balm has a tingling sensation (like soft lips lip balm). It adds a bit of a sheen to your lips and keeps them moisturized.
Spoons (from top): Face Moisturizer, Daily Ritual Oil, Anti-Aging Serum
Face Moisturizer

Restore radiance to tired, dry skin. This natural formula seals in moisture and helps your skin look plumped and renewed. Made with warming essential oils (think: ginger, cinnamon, lavender, and copaiba), our Vitalize Moisturizer encourages your natural glow. The smoothing, hydrating formula contains ulta-rich jojoba oil and hemp seed oil, as well as gently astringent chamomile flower water.

Ingredients: Anthemis Nobilis (Chamomile) Flower Water, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Seed Oil, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Stearic Acid, Cetearyl Alcohol, Mel (Honey), Glucose, Glycerin, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Extract, Lactoperoxidase, Glucose Oxidase, Copaifera Officinalis (Balsam Copaiba) Resin Oil, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil, Cinnamomum Zeylanicum (Cinnamon) Bark Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Bud Oil, Elettaria Cardamomum (Cardamom) Seed Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Rosa Gallica (Rose) Flower Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Lactic Acid

RATING: 4/5

Key Scents: Cloves and Cinnamon…it smells like Christmas!

My skin feels smooth and hydrated after applying this cream – it stays a little bit tacky, but it’s not oily or greasy.

Anti-Aging Serum

This potent serum smooths fine lines while helping to prevent the signs of aging. Hyaluronic acid acts as a magnet for water, making your skin visibly more plump and hydrated. This youth-enhancing formula also contains sea buckthorn oil (extremely rich in minerals, antioxidants, fatty acids and plant sterols) and our signature hemp root oil (which can help boost absorption).

Ingredients: Aqua, Lactobacillus Ferment, Lactobacillus, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Hemp Root Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Copaifera Officinalis (Balsam Copaiba) Resin Oil, Lysolecithin, Sclerotium Gum, Xanthan Gum, Pullulan, Boswellia Carterii (Frankincense) Gum Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens (Geranium) Flower Oil, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Seed Oil, Hippophae (Sea Buckthorn)

RATING: 4/5

Key Scent: I can’t identify the scent in this one…possibly the balsam or frakincense?

I love a serum with Hyaluronic Acid! My dry skin needs all the moisture. This serum is very nice and light. It absorbs quickly into the skin leaving the skin smooth and not at all tacky!

Daily Ritual Oil

Hydration at the deepest level. This naturally fragrant body oil seals in moisture after bathing, leaving skin velvety soft—and never greasy. The best part of your day. With a nutrient-rich base of hemp seed, avocado and sweet almond oils, our Vitalize formula regenerates skin as it smooths and firms. Warming essential oils, including ginger, cardamom and cinnamon, stimulate blood flow—and give this daily essential its invigorating scent.

Ingredients: Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Olus Oil, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil,Lav andula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Elettaria Cardamomum (Cardamom) Seed Extract, Cinnamomum Zeylanicum (Cinnamon) Bark Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Bud Oil, Rosa Gallica (Rose) Flower Extract, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil

RATING: 5/5

Key Scents: Ginger, Clove and Cinnamon, but the scent goes away after a few hours.

This oil comes in an aerosol can which I find interesting. I’ve only seen oils come in glass/plastic bottles. This is the first body oil I’ve tried and I’m enjoying it. This would be especially great in the winter time when my skin is really dry!
I think this would be a great skincare line for men. Most skincare products have either a floral/fruity scent or no scent. If you like products that have a ‘spicy’ scent like cloves and cinnamon, you will like this brand!

I love that Urban Juve has kits that cater to different skin types. It was a great introduction to hemp-infused products. I think my favourite product is the Daily Ritual Oil. If you want to try natural wellness products, then Urban Juve is the brand for you!

Follow Urban Juve on Instagram!
Love,

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July 2019 Product Empties

July 30, 2019

Hi Everyone!
I have quite a few cleanser empties this month! I use several at a time (one for morning, one for night). I also switch them up to test different ones out for a bit so that I can post a quick review on Instagram. I also have a few makeup empties for you this month, keep reading to see what products I’d repurchase!
Cosrx Low Ph Good Morning Gel Cleanser – I didn’t love the herbal smell of this cleanser. It cleansed well, but I’d rather use Cetaphil which is unscented.

Repurchase? No.

Pixi Glow Tonic Cleansing Gel* – This cleanser was okay, I tended to squeeze out a lot more than I needed because the cleanser was more liquid than other cleansers I’ve used. The scent of this cleanser reminded me of kitchen cleanser because it smelled like lemons.

Repurchase? No.

Youth to the People Superfood Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer (read my review) – Love this moisturizer! It’s clean at Sephora and has no added fragrance which is great for my sensitive skin.

Repurchase? Absolutely!

Holika Holika Pig-Nose Clear Black Head Massage Gel – I wouldn’t say this worked super well for blackheads, but in the beginning, it worked okay as a peeling gel for my nose. It would moisturize my nose and also get rid of some of the dead skin.

Repurchase? Maybe.

Holika Holika Golden Monkey Glamour Lip 3-Step Kit – I really enjoy this 3-step lip kit. It turns chapped lips into smooth, ready for lipstick lips. First, you exfoliate your lips and then put a lip mask on and follow up with some honey to moisturize. Personally, I could do without the honey. I’d rather just put some lip balm on my lips because the honey is so sticky.

Repurchase? Yes.

Mizon Apple Smoothie Peeling Gel – I enjoyed this peeling gel. It sloughed off dead skin well and it was a good price for the amount. I’ve used others that work a little better, but this is a gentle one that’s inexpensive.

Repurchase? Maybe.

Rael Acne Healing Patch (read my review) – I love these!

Repurchase? Yes.

Lancôme Miracle Cushion Foundation in 025 Beige Naturel – I really enjoy this cushion foundation. It’s a lightweight, buildable coverage. The shade is a bit off though – it looks a bit orange sometimes, so I might have to find a better shade match.

Repurchase? Yes.

Bobbi Brown Nude Finish Illuminating Setting Powder – This is a translucent pressed powder that’s supposed to give you a glow from within like the Hourglass Ambient powders. I’ve swatched the Hourglass ones before and they look beautiful, this Bobbi Brown one just looked like I had shimmer on my face.

Repurchase? No.

Catrice Light Illusion Loose Powder in Yellow Matt – I didn’t like this powder. I wanted to try a banana powder, but I prefer translucent powders.

Repurchase? No.

Wet N Wild Megaglo Highlighting Powder in Precious Petals (read my review) – This is a cult favourite for good reason. I was only able to get my hands on the shade Precious Petals which was too dark for my skintone, but it was still beautiful. I used it a lot as an eyeshadow instead because it was just a bit too golden for me.

Repurchase? Yes, in a different shade.
Love,
items marked with * were gifted to me.

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Review | TonyMoly Super Peeling Liquid Shiny Foot

July 26, 2019

Hi Everyone!
Today, I’m reviewing the Tony Moly Super Peeling Liquid Shiny Foot.

I’ve tried a foot mask before from Grace & Stella. It was the Dr. Pedicure Foot Exfoliating Mask* and it worked wonders! The disgusting pictures of peeling feet that you see online are real. I wanted to try a different brand to see if it worked as well as the other one. Since the weather was getting warmer, I thought it’d be a nice way to get my feet ready for sandals. So, I bought the Tony Moly mask, when I ordered some products from Chuusi.ca and I was expecting the same results as the Grace & Stella mask. Unfortunately, I did not get the same results…keep reading to find out what happened when I used the Tony Moly mask.

After using the mask, it peeled a bit on my heel and pad of my foot, but not the arch. There wasn’t any peeling on the top of my foot and between my toes like I did with the Grace & Stella Mask.

For the Grace & Stella foot masks, you open up the package and put on the booties that are soaked in liquid. Then you keep them on for an hour and let your feet soak. The Tony Moly mask was different because you pour the liquid into the booties yourself which I was excited about because then the outside of the bootie wouldn’t be wet. The Grace & Stella ones were wet on the inside and outside (similar to a sheet mask). Because you pour the liquid in yourself, I think that’s why it didn’t work as well because the whole bootie wasn’t concentrated and therefore the tops of my feet weren’t ‘soaking’ in liquid. The Tony Moly also came with a very fragranced foot cream that I didn’t really need.

RATING: 2.5/5

I’m disappointed in this one because it didn’t peel as much as the Grace & Stella mask, but my feet did feel fairly smooth after using it. I’d rather pay a few extra dollars and repurchase the Grace & Stella one because I know it works well.

Have you tried foot masks? I’m interested in trying the boscia one at Sephora.

Love,
*This post contains an affiliate link.

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First Impressions with Eczema Honey Nut-Free Skin-Soothing Cream

July 23, 2019

Hi Everyone!
Today, I’m reviewing the Nut-Free Skin-Soothing Cream from Eczema Honey. I found out about them on Instagram and really wanted to try their cream since I have eczema.

I have a prescribed cortisone cream that I use, but since it’s a steroid cream, I don’t want to use it too often because it can thin the skin. I wanted to find something that didn’t have any steroids that would help soothe my skin.

Eczema Honey generously sent me their 4 oz tub of the Skin-Soothing Cream. I chose the nut-free one because sometimes I find the smell of almond oil a bit too overpowering and I didn’t know how much they use. So the nut-free option was the safest choice for me.
Eczema Honey Nut-Free uses a blend of natural ingredients like Beeswax and Pure Honey for their moisturizing and anti-bacterial properties. A blend of grapeseed oil and sunflower oil act as emollients and deliver additional antioxidants into the skin.

Storage: Eczema Honey should be stored in a cool, dry spot. In warmer areas, the product may melt. Many customers store their jars in the bathroom, night stand, cabinet, or changing table. Jars do not require refrigeration but can be refrigerated for a super cooling effect.

To soothe and cool: Rub a dime-sized amount into the skin’s affected area 1-3 times a day. Add water or aloe-based lotion on top if desired.

As a mask: Apply a thicker layer for a 20-minute mask, wash with a clean and warm towelette for a moisturized and smooth finish.

As a moisturizer: Gently massage into dry areas of the skin until only a thin protective layer forms without too much excess product.

Additional uses: to take off makeup, as a lip balm, for providing deep hydration and moisture to skin.
RATING: 5/5

I was smelling it from the tub, and I have to say that it didn’t really smell like honey to me. But, once I applied it to the skin, I could smell the honey and a bit of a floral scent as well (maybe the sunflower oil).

It says you don’t have to, but you can refrigerate for a more soothing effect. I decided to store it in the fridge since it’s been so hot lately and I want it to keep for as long as possible.

You can use the cream to soothe a spot, use it as an everyday moisturizer, makeup remover or a leave-on mask for 20 minutes. Since it is a bit pricey, I think I would only use it to soothe flare ups. Since there’s obviously honey in it, it stays tacky after applying it.

I did a patch test on my arm to make sure I wasn’t allergic to anything and I didn’t have any reactions, so I decided to try it out. At the moment, I don’t have an eczema flare up, but I had a bit of heat rash on my knee. I put a very light layer on before bed. During the night, I wasn’t itchy at all and by morning, it had improved the redness and inflammation. Another time, my arm was itchy and I put some of the cream on and I realized later that it had stopped itching.

I am really impressed by the skin-soothing cream and I’m definitely interested in trying out other Eczema Honey products.

Have you heard of eczema honey? Do you suffer from eczema or psoriasis?
Love,
*I was sent this product for review

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First Impressions with ANHYD Organics

July 19, 2019

Hi Everyone!
**Note: The website is no longer available and the Instagram account has been inactive for a year.**

Today I’m reviewing two products that I was sent from ANHYD Organics.

ANHYD Organics (Founded in 2017) – All organic, vegan skincare bursting with essential nutrients; sealed with nature’s secrets to beautiful skin.

Free from harmful toxins, ANHYD Organics healing properties nourish body and soul working to rejuvenate skin cells, hydrate skin and restore optimum balance.

Derived from the term Anhydrous, the essence of ANHYD Organics is to filter out impurities, ensuring our ingredients are never spoiled thus preserving the organic properties in their purest form.
Organic Rose Water Facial Toner

Wipe away problem skin to reveal a luminous glow.

Restore harmony and maintain optimal skin pH balance with the Organic Rose Water Facial Toner. An Anti-inflammatory healing solution for acne, dermatitis and eczema. Essential ingredients of Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, Natural Rose, Flower Water, Certified Organic Witch Hazel and Grape Seed Extract combine to create equilibrium.

RATING: 5/5

I’m personally not a huge fan of rose and I also think I’m allergic to witch hazel (read my post). So, I gave the toner to my mom to try. She enjoys rose-scented products. My mom has tested it out and she loves the rose. It has the perfect amount where it smells like rose, but doesn’t smell old lady-ish. After cleansing, she uses the toner to remove any remaining makeup that she missed and then applies her moisturizer. She is really enjoying the toner because it doesn’t feel tacky after applying. She said that her face feels nice and refreshed after using the toner.
Organic Facial Moisturizer

Rejuvenate uneven skin tone and diminish fine lines, scars and dark marks with our Organic Facial Moisturizer. A silky formulation that is perfect as a makeup primer and protection from the elements. Discover all day hydration for normal skin. Filled with essential vitamins of Hydrating Algae, Shea Butter, Avocado Oil, Macadamia Seed Oil, Chamomile and Lavender Oil, Vitamin A, C, E and B3. A conditioning formula that will revitalise skin, regenerate skin tissue and hydrate skin.

RATING: 5/5

This moisturizer has a very light scent that doesn’t linger which is great for me. I really like the light texture of it. I’ve been mixing this with my facial oil and my face feels hydrated and dewy. Initially, it’s tacky for a bit, but eventually dries down. My skin feels so smooth after using this.

As someone with dry skin, I think it’s great as a makeup primer. For those with oily skin, it might be too slippery since it’s so hydrating. Foundation and concealer layer on top of it nicely. It reminds me of the Sonia Roselli Water Balm because it’s a moisturizer that can double as a makeup primer (read my review). I don’t think it would necessarily help prolong makeup wear, but it definitely primes the skin for a smooth canvas.

I’m impressed by these two products from this new skincare brand.

Have you heard of ANHYD Organics?

Love,

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Review | L’Oréal Brow Stylist Boost & Set Volumizing Brow Mascara

July 16, 2019

Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m reviewing the L’Oréal Brow Stylist Boost & Set Volumizing Brow Mascara in Dark Brunette. I originally bought this because I thought it was the one that Kathleen Lights said was one of her faves. I remembered her saying ‘brow stylist’ and bought the one I saw at the drugstore. It turns out that she likes the Brow Stylist Plumper. The plumper one has a similar brush to the Benefit Gimme Brow while this brow mascara has one of the skinniest brow brushes I’ve ever seen. Since it was from the drugstore and I couldn’t return it, I tried it out.
The art of brow made easy. Our 1st gel mousse formula easily glides onto brows to boost volume and set for a natural to thicker look. Designed with an angled skinny brush to style brow hairs and for precise application. All day wear. Ophthalmologist tested. Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. Available in 4 shades.

It’s more expensive (when you work out cost per mL) than the Anastasia Brow Gel.
RATING: 3/5

The Dark Brunette shade was good shade for my dark brows. It kept my brows in place well, but they felt crunchy. It never rained when I wore it, so I can’t say how waterproof it was, but when I used setting spray, it never ran down my face. Also, it didn’t flake either (even though it was crunchy).

Personally, I prefer other brow gels like the Colourpop Boss Brow Gel, Diorshow Bold Brow or the Benefit Gimme Brow. Before I retired the Bold Brow, I did a side-by-side comparison and it just felt waxy and crunchy compared to the Bold Brow. See the brush size difference in the picture below:
Brow Stylist (left), Bold Brow
I did really enjoy that the brush of the L’Oreal brow gel was so skinny. You can also use it to fill in your brows like you would with a pencil or a brush because it has such a thin brush. I’ve currently replaced it with the Charlotte Tilbury Legendary Brows.

What are your fave drugstore brow products?

Love,

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Review | Jouer Essential Lip Enhancer Conditioning Lip Treatment

July 12, 2019

Hi Everyone!
Today, I’m writing about the Jouer Essential Lip Enhancer Conditioning Lip Treatment. Tati mentioned it in one of her videos saying she used to buy it all the time so I decided to try it since it’s a translucent pink shade. Tati recommends a lot of beautiful lip products, but because we don’t have the same skin tone, the shades she loves don’t always suit me. I bought this balm during the Sephora VIB sale in May and *spoiler alert* I absolutely love it!
A refreshing and hydrating translucent light pink lip treatment with a soft rose scent.

This ultra-rich lip moisturizer nurtures and conditions your lips with the help of Maxi-Lip™, Vitamin E, Shea Butter, and Jojoba Seed Oil. These good-for-you ingredients are incorporated in a smooth silky formula that protects lips from environmentally damaging elements while providing lasting hydration.

RATING: 5/5

I don’t normally like rose-scented products, but this is a very subtle scent. It looks beautiful alone or as a topper for your lipstick. It’s glossy, but not overly sticky. I did a swatch on my arm, but it just looks clear, so I won’t bother posting a picture. I wiped it off with a tissue and it doesn’t feel sticky on my arm at all. You know when you swatch lip gloss on your arm and you need makeup remover or something to get rid of the stickiness? It doesn’t do that, although it does feel smooth from the oils of the balm. It has a bit of a taste, so I would avoid licking your lips.

I will definitely be repurchasing this one in the future.

Have you tried the Jouer balm?

Love,

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First Impressions with Youth to the People

July 9, 2019

Hi Everyone!

During the Sephora sale, I purchased the Youth Mini Travel Duo which includes a mini of the Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser and the Superfood Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer. I’ve seen Youth to the People all over Instagram and finally decided to try it to see if it’s worth the hype.

With 100% vegan ingredients, YTTP is a clean brand at Sephora.

Clean at Sephora is formulated without: Sulfates SLS and SLES, parabens, formaldehydes, formaldehyde-releasing agents, phthalates, mineral oil, retinyl palmitate, oxybenzone, coal tar, hydroquinone, triclosan, triclocarban. All skincare, hair, and makeup brands with the Clean Seal have less than one percent of synthetic fragrances.
Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser

A daily green juice cleanse for your face with cold-pressed antioxidants to remove makeup and prevent build-up in pores, while keeping skin’s pH balanced.

RATING: 4.5/5

It makes my face feel really clean. I’ve been trying to use it only twice a week at the most since it’s so cleansing. Would I repurchase the full-sized? Possibly. While it is a great cleanser, it’s also quite expensive for the bottle that you get. I do like that the full size comes with a pump, so it’d be a nice reusable bottle for hand soap or something.
Superfood Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer

A multifunction, lightweight face cream loaded with superfoods—kale, spinach, and green tea—and hyaluronic acid to moisturize skin.

RATING: 5/5

I really enjoyed the moisturizer! I like that the smell isn’t too strong and doesn’t linger. My face feels nice and hydrated. I’ve been using it day and night mixed with my facial oil and I think I would definitely buy a full size pot of this cream.

I am definitely interested in trying out more products from Youth to the People. I love that it’s clean and also they products come in glass containers which are so useful to reuse!

What are your faves from Youth to the People?

Love,

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This or That | Almay Make Them Jelly Hi-Lite vs. NYX A Bit Jelly Gel Illuminator

July 5, 2019

Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m comparing two different jelly highlighters. These were both gifted to me and I thought I would do a review comparing the two. Jelly highlighters are interesting, but they’re not great for every day use since the shimmer is a bit chunky (for my liking). I would say this jelly is good for a festival/unicorn/halloween look. Keep reading to find out which one I prefer!
Almay Make Them Jelly Hi-Lite in 24K Dreams

This gorgeous jelly highlighter with an addictively bouncy texture gives your skin a dewy, holographic glow that’s utterly irresistible.

There are 2 shades available.
from left: 24K Dreams 004, Unicorn Light 003
Both of these highlighters are fun shades – yellow gold and pink. Although once you apply it, it’s not as pink as it looks in the tub. It’s like a sheer, jelly glitter. I’m not a huge fan of this one because when I press my finger into it, the jelly breaks up and crumbles (for lack of a better word). I’ve noticed that the gold one has a firmer texture whereas the pink one tends to crumble more.

NYX A Bit Jelly Gel Illuminator in Luminous

Dip right into our new A Bit Jelly Gel Illuminator. Available in three shades swimming in sparkles, this jelly-like formula feels and looks seriously amazing. Just scoop some up with your finger and pat the water-based gel onto the face or body. It slips on like a dream as you smooth it onto the skin, leaving behind a lightweight wash of radiance—that glistens even after it dries down! Gettin’ a bit jelly right now? Same, this dewy glow is lit.

There are 3 shades available
From top: Opalescent, Bronze, Luminous
I have the shade Luminous and it’s a champagne shade with blue glitter. This highlighter is a water-based product which washes away easily with water (which makes me think it might just melt down your face if you sweat). I would suggest spraying any setting spray before applying this highlighter. The texture of it is nice – when I dip my finger into it, it doesn’t separate or become chunky. It’s almost like a putty because it moves with my finger which is a good thing because then you don’t get any jelly chunks on your face when you apply it.
Luminous (top), 24K Dreams, Unicorn Light
WINNER: NYX A Bit Jelly Gel Illuminator

I think between these two jelly highlighters, I prefer the NYX A Bit Jelly Gel Illuminator. Both highlighters jiggle when you tap the containers. You can feel the jelly bounce back. I think jelly highlighters are fun, but I don’t think I would purchase any myself. I would consider trying jelly eyeshadows because I’ve seen a few on Instagram and they’re so pigmented. Obviously jelly highlighters wouldn’t be pigmented because you’d have a coloured streak on your face, but it feels like I’m just putting wet glitter on my face. I’m also not a fan of glittery highlighters and would prefer a liquid highlighter.

Have you tried jelly products?
Love,

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Let’s Talk About Acne Patches!

July 2, 2019
Hi Everyone!

I’ve tried a handful of pimple patches, so here are my thoughts on them. I haven’t tried patches that have tea tree or microneedles. I have only ever tried the hydrocolloid patches that just absorb pus.

I know there are so many brands out there, but unfortunately for me, I can’t get them in Canada without having to pay an arm and a leg. For me, I’ve found ones that work well, so I don’t really need to try all of them out there.

I’ve tried both tapered and non-tapered patches. The originals are ones that are the same thickness all around while the tapered ones are thinner around the edge so that it blends into the skin more easily. Tapered are great for wearing out of the house while non-tapered ones are great for overnight use and also can absorb more.
Check out my reviews:

COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches | COSRX Clear Fit Master Patches

COSRX vs. Rael | COSRX vs. Nexcare

I have tried five different patches from four brands:

Regular, non-tapered patches – COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches, Nexcare Acne Absorbing Covers

Tapered patches – COSRX Clear Fit Master Patch, Rael Acne Pimple Healing Patch and Subi Perfect Pimple Patch
This picture is not mine, it was taken from Google.
Nexcare acne absorbing covers are my least favourite patches I’ve tried. They smelled like plastic and both sides were quite sticky (sometimes I didn’t know which side was the sticky side). They were also more yellow than the other patches which made it more noticeable on my skin.

COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches are my favourites for overnight pimples.

The tapered ones are the best for wearing out of the house and for spots that are curved. Sometimes the non-tapered ones are too thick to put on the jaw/chin or nose, so a tapered one won’t unstick from your skin.

To me, the COSRX Clear Fit Master Patch, Rael Acne Pimple Healing Patch and Subi Perfect Pimple Patch are all the same in terms of efficacy. So, the deciding factor would be the price and whether you want one or two sizes.

*All prices are in Canadian unless stated otherwise

COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches

1 pack = 24 patches with 3 sizes (10x7mm, 5x10mm, 9x12mm)

Amazon.ca – $15 for a 3 pack (72 patches) = 0.2083 per patch

Chuusi.ca – $4.50 for 1 pack (24 patches) = 0.1875 per patch

COSRX Clear Fit Master Patches

1 pack = 18 patches with 1 size (18x10mm)

Amazon.ca – $24 for a 3 pack (54 patches) = 0.44 per patch

Chuusi.ca – $4.50 for 1 pack (18 patches) = 0.25 per patch

Subi Beauty Perfect Pimple Patches

1 pack = 18 patches with 1 size (18x10mm)

Subi Beauty – $29.95 USD for a 3 pack (54 patches) = $0.55 USD per patch

Rael Acne Pimple Healing Patches

1 pack = 24 patches with 2 sizes (12x10mm, 12x12mm)

Amazon.ca – $25.49 for a 4 pack (96 patches) = 0.27 per patch

Nexcare Acne Absorbing Covers

1 pack = 36 patches with 2 sizes (24x8mm, 12x12mm)

Amazon.ca – $11.50 for a 1 pack (36 patches) = 0.32 per patch

For me, as a Canadian, the COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches are the cheapest from Chuusi.ca and the Clear Fit Patches are the cheapest tapered patches (also from Chuusi.ca).

I do like the option of having two sizes from Rael, but if I’m already making an order on Chuusi.ca, I would buy the COSRX Clear Fit ones.

What are your fave acne patches?
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**Note: The website is no longer available and the Instagram account has been inactive for a year.**

Note: The website is no longer available and the Instagram account has been inactive for a year.