• eczema honey skin-soothing cream nut-free

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

    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

  • anhyd organics first impressions review

    First Impressions with ANHYD Organics

    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,

  • loreal brow stylist boost and set tinted brow gel

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

    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,

  • jouer essential lip enhancer conditioning lip treatment balm

    Review | Jouer Essential Lip Enhancer Conditioning Lip Treatment

    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,

  • youth to the people kale + spinach green tea hyaluronic acid green tea spinach cleanser

    First Impressions with Youth to the People

    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,

  • almay make them jelly hi-lite illuminator vs nyx a bit jelly gel illuminator

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

    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,

  • Let’s Talk About Acne Patches!

    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?

    Love,

  • June 2019 Product Empties

    Hi Everyone!

    I tried a few new skincare products this month and I also managed to finish some makeup products that I’ve had for a while. Keep reading to find out which ones I’d repurchase!

    Fourth Ray Beauty Rainfall 2% Hyaluronic Acid Serum – I enjoyed this HA serum. It smelled nice and kept my face looking dewy. If I used too much, I found that it would pill, but I eventually found the right amount to use each time.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Bobbi Brown Rich Lip Color in Bare Pink – This is a pretty beige pink shade. While it is beautiful, it isn’t my fave lipstick.

    Repurchase? Maybe

    Maybelline Fit Me Concealer in 10 Light – This is a great concealer.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray – I wouldn’t say I’d never buy this again, but I feel like it doesn’t make my makeup last that much longer than it normally does.

    Repurchase? Possibly.

    Tula Pro-Glycolic 10% PH Resurfacing Gel – This is a great, gentle toner. It is more expensive than liquid toners, but it was very gentle on my skin.

    Repurchase? Tula no longer has a Canadian website, but I would buy again if I could.

    Tula Illuminating Face Serum – I’m so sad I’ve finished this because it’s a great serum. It helped make some dark spots on my cheek go away a lot faster than I expected.

    Repurchase? Definitely would if I could.

    Youth to the People Superfood Face Wash – I just wanted to try the mini of this cleanser because I’ve heard good things about it. I think it’s almost too cleansing for me because my face feels kind of dry after using it. It’s definitely not an everyday cleanser for my dry skin, but I would use it maybe twice a week (especially since it’s so pricey).

    Repurchase? Maybe.

    Nature Republic Soothing & Moisturizing Aloe Vera Foam Cleanser – This cleanser had a smell that reminded me of something from my childhood, but I couldn’t put my finger on what it was. This was an okay cleanser, I don’t hate it, but don’t love it either. It’s one of those squeaky clean cleansers that are maybe a bit too cleansing.

    Repurchase? No.

    What were your empties from this month?

    Love,

  • May/June 2019 Faves

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m sharing my favourites from May and June! I’ve slowly been trying out new products that I’ve purchased.

    I bought the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder in Medium from the Sephora sale and I’m loving it. I do wish they had a larger selection of shades because I would use this as a foundation, but the shade isn’t quite right. I love using the Sigma F30 Large Powder Brush to apply my powder foundations. It’s so soft and fluffy!

    I bought this letterboard from Winners and I love the metallic accent that it adds to my room’s decor. I think this quote from Ron Swanson from Parks and Recreation is so funny and very true. It’s like that quote from Sweet Home Alabama when the dad says, “You can’t ride two horses with one ass, sugarbean.

    I can see why everyone loves the Colourpop Super Shock Shadows. This is the shade Sailor and while I don’t love the multicoloured glitter (I didn’t read the description when I bought it, I just ordered based on swatches online and it was hard to tell it had the multicoloured glitter, so that was my mistake), I would definitely buy more super shock shadows in different shades.

    I’m loving these products on my lips. The Pixi On-the-Glow Multi-Use Moisture Stick, Laneige Lip Glowy Balm in Grapefruit, Jouer Essential Lip Enhancer Balm and of course the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask in Berry. The Lip Glowy Balm and the Jouer Balm make your lips nice and glossy.

    Love,

  • Makeup Inventory | June 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    This time last year, I had 340 makeup products (check out my post). By December of last year, I decluttered a lot and finished quite a few products (check out my post). I cut my collection in half and now my collection is down to 100! I hope to continue streamlining my collection. Maybe next year, I’ll have 50-75 products.

    Primers: 7 (I had 11 in December)

    Setting/Finishing Powders: 5 (8 in Dec)

    Illuminating Powders/Creams: 0 (3 in Dec)

    Foundations: 6 (7 in Dec)

    Concealers/Colour Correctors: 6 (5 in Dec)

    Contour: 1 (3 in Dec)

    Bronzers: 3 (3 in Dec)

    Blushes: 5 (5 in Dec)

    Highlighters: 4 (9 in Dec)

    Brows: 6 (3 in Dec)

    Eyeshadow Pans/Sticks/Creams: 23 (60 in Dec)

    Eyeliners: 2 (9 in Dec)

    Mascaras: 3 (2 in Dec)

    Lipsticks: 7 (7 in Dec)

    Lip Liners: 4 (5 in Dec)

    Lip Glosses/Tints: 2 (4 in Dec)

    Makeup Removers: 4 (1 in Dec)

    Perfume: 5 (4 in Dec)

    Nail Polish: 7 (19 in Dec)

    TOTAL: 100 (170 in Dec)

    How many products are in your collection?

    Love,

  • derma roller system derma roller

    First Impressions with Derma Roller System

    Hi Everyone!

    I was sent some products from Derma Roller System to try out. I’ve always wanted to try a derma roller. I always see them at Winners, but since they’re only like $10, I feel like those aren’t made with stainless steel. Keep reading to find out what I think about derma rollers!

    Derma Roller

    The patented, award-winning Derma Roller System® provides a natural way to improve the appearance of skin. By painlessly rolling 200 gamma-sterilized stainless steel needles over your skin, the Derma Roller creates tiny microchannels to stimulate and trigger the skin’s natural healing process and increase collagen and elastin production (the two proteins that help make up the structural components of skin).

    Performing treatments with the Derma Roller once every few weeks results in visibly firmer, smoother, and younger-looking skin.

    The Derma Roller has been clinically proven to help treat common signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles, cellulite, scars (including acne scars), and stretch marks, providing smoother skin and promoting hair growth (when used with Minoxidil 5%).

    Benefits

    • Improves the appearance of acne scars, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles
    • Firms skin
    • Evens out skin tone
    • Increases the effectiveness of topical skin care
    • Great for all skin types

    I chose the 0.5 mm size because I thought it’d be best to start with the smallest size. They also sell 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5mm. Below is a chart from their website to show you what the benefits are of each needle size.

    I’ve been using the derma roller for a few months now and I think I’m noticing a difference in my skin. On my nose, I have some little ‘pits’ from being bad and squeezing out whiteheads. I noticed that after a few weeks, one of the larger pits looks smaller. I will admit that the dermaroller kind of hurts because you are poking skin with tiny needles. I don’t apply any pressure. I’m rolling it over my face or body with the lightest touch. I’ve used it on my leg where I have a dark spot from eczema and I think it has lightened it a bit.

    To clean it, I place the derma roller inside a cup and pour in some isopropyl alcohol (just enough to cover the head of the derma roller). I let it sit for about 30 minutes (as instructed).

    RATING: 4/5

    DermaC+ Anti-Aging Serum

    A powerful anti-aging serum highly concentrated with vitamin C (creates elastin and collagen) and vitamin E (antioxidant and moisturizer) to minimize the appearance of deep wrinkles and reduce the look of age spots and discoloration.

    RATING: 3/5

    The anti-aging serum smells nice from the Hyaluronic Acid and doesn’t feel too tacky. I like that it doesn’t pill like one of my other Hyaluronic Acid products. However, it’s not that different from other skincare products on the market. 

    Love,

  • NYX | My Hits & Misses

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m talking about products I’ve tried from NYX: the good, the bad and the in between.

    Check out my other Hits & Misses posts!

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

    SKINCARE || Eye Creams

    BRANDS || Bobbi Brown | Burt’s Bees | L’OréalMaybelline | Nude by Nature | 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.


    HITS

    Micro Brow Pencil – This was one of the first brow pencils I tried and it’s a great drugstore brow pencil for those who just want to fill in the gaps.

    Fill & Fluff Eyebrow Pomade Pencil in Ash Brown – I’ve tried samples of pomades that come in pots, but I’ve never tried a pomade pencil. I liked this the best out of all the brow pomade products I’ve tried, but I still prefer a pencil with a more precise tip.

    Makeup Setting Spray – This is a good drugstore spray that doesn’t have a scent to it.

    California Beamin’ Face & Body Bronzer in Free Spirit – This is a huge pan for a bronzer. It’s a really pretty bronzer that has a sheen to it (even more of a sheen than Physician’s Formula Butter Bronzer- so if you like a matte finish, this isn’t the bronzer for you). It’s also really beautiful as an effortless summer eyeshadow to give you that bronze look.

    Bare With Me Hydrating Cheek Tint in Do Me Right – This is a really pretty berry cheek tint. Perfect for the summer time and blends out nicely.

    LIKES

    Bare With Me Tinted Skin Veil – While I do like this Tinted Skin Veil, it doesn’t quite cover up redness around my nose and chin. On clearer skin days, this will be great for me. This is great if you already have flawless skin, but just want to even it out a bit.

    HD Concealer Wand (Colour Correctors) – I tried the green and yellow shades and I didn’t love the smell of these. Also, I found that if I tried to conceal the redness on a blemish that was a bit dry, the concealer would accentuate the dry, peeling skin.

    MISSES

    A Bit Jelly Gel Illuminator – I find jelly highlighters to be a bit gimmick-y. While they’re cool for festival/Halloween looks, they’re not the best for an everyday look. Jelly illuminators are a bit too chunky for me – not the jelly itself, but the glitter in them.

    High Definition Foundation – I bought this so I could darken another foundation I had. This broke me out and I also remember it smelling like chemicals.

    Bare With Me Prime. Set. Refresh. Multitasking Spray – While this does have Alcohol Denat in the ingredients, so do other higher end sprays. This has a nice scent and the mist is very fine. If it didn’t have salicylic acid in it, I would love this spray. Unfortunately, it caused me to break out because the salicylic acid brought up my underground blemishes.

    Love,

  • Review | Lancôme L’Absolu Lacquer Lip Gloss

    Hi Everyone!

    I realized that I never wrote a dedicated review to the Lancôme L’Absolu Lacquer Lip Gloss.

    This innovative lip gloss combines the comfort and shine of a gloss, the pigment of a lipstick and the lasting power of a stain. Our innovative oil in water emulsion is lightweight and non-sticky, providing up to 6H of wear. Enriched with glycerin, lips feel hydrated throughout the day. The high shine finish and vivid colour payoff are buildable from sheer to full coverage in 1-2-3 coats.

    1) One coat for a sheer natural look witha dewy shine finish
    2) Two coats for an intense look with fresh colour and lacquered shine finish.
    3) Three coats for a dramatic look with audacious colour impact & ultra lacquered shine!

    Originally, I bought this for my mom. It’s the shade 236 Pour Toujours. We bought it based on the online swatch (see below)- it looked more mauve than it does in real life. My mom tried it and it wasn’t quite her colour, so she gave it to me.

    I quickly fell in love with it. This lippie is basically a hybrid of a lipstick and a gloss – pigmented with a glossy sheen. It’s lightweight and doesn’t feel sticky like a gloss. It’s the perfect My Lips But Better Shade for me. I love the flat applicator and the slightly pointy/rounded tip of it.

    Top swatch is slightly blended in, bottom swatch is straight from the tube.

    RATING: 5/5

    The name of this shade is perfect because I think I will have this in my collection ‘Forever’ (Pour Toujours). I would definitely consider trying other shades.

    Have you tried the L’Absolu Lacquer Lip Gloss?

    Love,

  • First Impressions with Sdara Skincare

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’ll be reviewing some products from Sdara Skincare. They sent me a rose quartz roller and some eye gel patches! Keep reading to see what I think about these products!

    Rose Quartz Roller

    Get the glow – Be blown away by a younger and more radiant YOU. Prepare yourself to see even skin tone in the mirror that it might shock you, until you remember that you used our Sdara Skincare Rose Quartz Roller! Slow down aging (if you want to) – Bless yourself with aging gracefully. You’ll think, “Woah! What happened to that wrinkle? Why are my pores so small?” Because that’s the power of collagen reproduction and lymphatic drainage from our little pink miracle worker. Product Penetration – Your products will apply effortlessly with increased absorption! Massage products into your skin for increased effectiveness. Treat Yourself – You’ll want to roll our roller all over your body! That’s what one of our Sdara beauty gurus had to say. It’s the best to soothe irritated skin.

    RATING: 5/5

    I am loving the Rose Quartz Roller! I love the colour and the coolness of the roller just feels so nice on the skin. It makes your face feel nice, refreshed and ready for your skincare and makeup. The coolness from the roller is also great for those hot summer days. It’s also useful when you’ve already applied your skincare and it helps work it into your skin.

    Eye Gel Mask

    For days when under-eye concealer just won’t do, (no one has to know you didn’t relax the night away), Sdara Eye Gel Mask acts like a soothing second skin to immediately target and soothe the area. Promoting brighter, plumper, and more youthful-looking skin, preventative ingredients like natural snow mushroom, sodium hyaluronate, peptides, and gold restore natural moisture, boost collagen production, and firm your skin. Puffy, tired-looking eyes, we’re coming for you.

    RATING: 3/5

    The eye gel patches are also quite nice. They feel cool on the eyelids and undereyes and my skin feels smooth and soft after using it. Although I could do without the glitter that comes off the eye masks.

    I am impressed with the products I received from Sdara Skincare. I would be interested in trying the microneedle roller (0.25mm). While I already have one from a different brand that has 0.5mm needles, it would be interesting to try one with smaller needles. Maybe have one for the body and one for the face.

    Have you tried facial rollers?

    Love,

  • New Summer Arrivals from NYX

    Hi Everyone!

    I was very generously sent some of the new summer arrivals for NYX and I’m so excited to share my thoughts on them with you! This is not a sponsored post. Although I did receive these products for free, I was not asked to review them on my blog.

    Bare With Me Tinted Skin Veil

    Reveal your freshest self with our new Bare With Me Tinted Skin Veil! Simply smooth this weightless formula onto the complexion for light, breathable coverage with a  seamless and satiny finish. With 12 forgiving shades formulated to accommodate a wide range of skin tones, each flexible hue feels like a second skin and delivers up to  eight hours of hydration.

    WHAT IT IS

    A lightweight tinted cream with a seamless, satiny finish.

    Available in 12 shades, I received Pale Light, Vanilla Nude and True Beige Buff.

    I think this is perfect if you already have beautiful skin and want to wear something very light. True Beige Buff is a good shade for me (I could probably go up a shade or maybe mix it with one of the darker shades that’s available). This tinted cream blended out very nicely, but it didn’t cover redness. Comparing this to the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer, the coverage isn’t as good, but it still looks really pretty on the skin and you can go in with concealer to cover any redness. The first time I tried this, I applied it on my cheeks and forehead, but didn’t apply on my nose and chin (which is where I have redness). Instead, I just applied concealer in those areas because I was going for a more natural look and didn’t want to have too many layers. After about 7-8 hours, the areas where I applied the Tinted Skin Veil looked good still except it looked a bit cakey where I had bronzer.

    Vanilla Nude (left), True Beige Buff

    Bare with Me Hydrating Cheek Tint

    Keep it real with our limited-edition Bare With Me Hydrating Cheek Tint. Available in three sheer and ultra-lightweight shades, each portable stick gives you that post-workout flush—minus the sweat! The fresh-looking color glides and blends easily onto cheeks for a diffused glow that leaves skin hydrated for up to eight hours. Take your essential aloe and cucumber-infused hue on the go and touch up any where the wind takes you.

    WHAT IT IS

    A limited-edition cheek tint infused with aloe and cucumber extracts.

    Available in 3 shades, I received all 3 in Do Me Right, Creative Cleanse and Detox Me.

    RATING: 4/5

    A cheek tint is the perfect choice for the summer time. The shade Do Me Right is the perfect berry shade for a naturally flushed look. I apply it directly onto my cheeks and then blend out with my fingers. 

    California Beamin’ Face & Body Bronzer

    Here comes the fun: it’s our new California Beamin’ Face & Body Bronzer! This massive bronzer comes in six sun-kissed tones that are gonna turn up the heat. Featuring a creamy texture, our all-over powder delivers a warm faux glow with  a flattering satin finish. Each carefully curated shade blends smoothly across the  face or body and allows you to create an airbrushed, second-skin effect.

    WHAT IT IS

    A jumbo bronzer designed to be dusted all over the face and body

    Available in 6 shades, I received 3 in Free Spirit, Beach Bum and The OC.

    RATING: 4/5

    I have mixed feelings about this one. I use the shade Free Spirit which is the lightest of the 6 available shades. I’m still working on my bronzer technique, so I think it has more to do with me than the product. On the other hand, this bronzer has a sheen to it and a bit of shimmer (more of a sheen than Physician’s Formula Butter Bronzer). I prefer either matte or satin finish, but I don’t love shimmer in my bronzer. One thing that I do love about this though is that it’s really pretty as an eyeshadow and on the body for a bronzed glow.

    Fill & Fluff Eyebrow Pomade Pencil

    The boyfriend jean of the eyebrow world has arrived! Our new dual-ended Fill & Fluff Eyebrow Pomade Pencil features a retractable, teardrop-shaped pomade bullet for shading, plus a micro paddle brush for blending on the flip side. It comes in eight matte colors with a smooth, waxy texture and pigmented finish. Perf for drawing the effortless “boy brow” look and building controllable volume, our arch-styling duo is just what your makeup routine needs to up your brow game.

    WHAT IT IS

    A first-of-its-kind brow pencil featuring a smooth, waxy pomade for shading, and a tiny paddle brush for fluffing and blending.

    Available in 8 shades, I received Ash Brown.

    RATING: 4/5

    This is a happy medium between pencils and pomades. Instead of a spoolie, this comes with a tiny paddle brush that fluffs out the product. The paddle brush is cool, but it kind of sucks that it doesn’t come with a spoolie to brush my brows into place before I use it. I actually really liked this product because it made my brows look filled, but fluffy and natural at the same time. I just used my Benefit pencil’s spoolie to brush out my brows. I already love the Micro Brow pencil which is a great drugstore alternative to higher end pencils. Since this is a pomade pencil, it was harder to clean off than regular brow pencils.

    I still prefer pencils for natural everyday looks, but this is a good one if I wanted to go full glam or take a pic for IG. The perfect combo was using the Fill & Fluff Pomade Pencil and then using Colourpop’s Brow Boss Clear Gel to set my brows in place. 

    Bare With Me Prime. Set. Refresh. Multitasking Spray

    Put on a fresh face with Bare With Me Prime. Set. Refresh. Multitasking Spray.  Infused with aloe and cucumber extracts, our sensitive skin-friendly spray has  your complexion covered every step of the way. Just a few spritzes preps or sets  your makeup and perks up any look. This multipurpose mist also gives skin a  dewy glow, minimizes the appearance of pores, and provides up to eight hours of  hydration.

    WHAT IT IS

    A multitasking face spray that doesn’t dry out the skin.

    WHAT IT DOES

    Primes the complexion for makeup application and sets or refreshes your finished look.

    RATING: 2/5

    I was watching one of Tati’s recent videos and she mentioned that this has salicylic acid in it. I had no idea. I read the ingredients, but my eyes must’ve skipped over it somehow. It also has Alcohol Denat. It has a pleasant smell (like cucumbers, but also sorta smells like hairspray). It sprays a very fine mist (better than MAC Fix+ and UD All Nighter Spray). I don’t really want a setting spray to have salicylic acid in it.

    A Bit Jelly Gel Illuminator

    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.

    WHAT IT IS

    A sparkly gel illuminator that is water-based and lightweight.

    Available in 3 shades, I received Luminous.

    RATING: 2.5/5

    This is a champagne shade with blue glitter. 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. This 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. The swatch above isn’t the best representation of what it looks like in person. In the picture, it just look a bit like shimmery Vaseline or something.

    After wearing a full face of these new NYX products, I had a huge pimple under my nose that wasn’t there when I first put my makeup on and I also had a few whiteheads pop up on my nose and chin. I think it was caused by the spray because I had used it the day before as well. I haven’t had a lot of luck with NYX complexion products in the past (their HD Foundation broke me out), but it couldn’t have been the Tinted Skin Veil because I didn’t even apply it on those areas. I think the salicylic acid from the spray may have brought some pre-existing blemishes to the surface. 

    Despite the huge pimple, I am really impressed with the new arrivals! I enjoyed the majority of the products I tried. While I received more than 1 of the different products, I didn’t swatch all of them because some of the shades aren’t my style or are too light/dark. I will be putting the ones I haven’t touched into a future giveaway, so stay tuned on Instagram!

    Love,