• products i thought i wanted to try

    Products I Thought I Wanted To Try

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I am sharing products that I thought I wanted to try/buy. After going to Sephora to see them in person, I realized that they weren’t for me.

    Glow Recipe Pineapple-C Brightening Serum – I was excited when I first heard of this because I enjoyed the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask. I went in store and saw that the bottle was way smaller than I thought it’d be and also this didn’t smell like pineapple to me.

    Marc Jacobs Youthquake Hydra-full Retexturizing Gel Crème Moisturizer – Same as the Glow Recipe, this didn’t smell like pineapple to me. Maybe it’s something about pineapple that doesn’t convert to skincare well. I’m not about to spend $79 on something I don’t like.

    Make Up For Ever Artist Nude Creme Liquid Lipstick – Even the lightest shade was very dark when I swatched it at Sephora. While they are beautiful shades, I prefer lighter for myself.

    Make Up For Ever Pro Bronze Fusion Bronzer – This looks so pretty online, but I’m not sure the shades available would work for me. I also just wasn’t super impressed with it in person.

    Fenty Pro Filt’r Amplifying Eye Primer – It just looked very silicone-y. I feel like it would just slip and slide.

    Hourglass Scattered Light Glitter Eye Shadow – When I first heard of them, I would just hear the ‘scattered light’ part and not the ‘glitter.’ I had seen swatches and really wanted to try them because they’re beautiful. But, the name says it all… and I’m not a fan of glitter. It’s beautiful, but it’s too much work for me. Even shimmery eyeshadow has a lot of fallout for me, so I can’t imagine glitter.

    Tarte Chrome Paint Shadow Pot – Same as the Hourglass eye shadows, they looked beautiful, but they’re basically loose pigment eyeshadows and they’re more chunky than the Hourglass ones.

    Lancôme Fix It Forget It Setting Spray – I wanted to try out different sprays that Sephora had and this was on the list until I saw that it has witch hazel. I’ve had a bad reaction to witch hazel before, so I’d prefer to steer clear of it in makeup. I think it’s okay if it’s not too high up on the ingredient list. 

    KORA Organics products – I found out this was Miranda Kerr’s brand and I was interested in trying it. She has beautiful skin, so I went to Sephora to test out the consistency and scent. The skincare products did not smell good to me.

    Anastasia Eyeshadow Palettes – The new eyeshadow palettes that ABH has been releasing are beautiful, but a lot of the shades are ones I don’t like on my own skin tone or I wouldn’t wear everyday. I regret not buying the Sultry palette because that one had the most shades I would use. Soft Glam is gorgeous, but has a bit too many oranges for my personal taste.

    Guerlain products – Even though Guerlain is too expensive, I was looking at them at Sephora one day. I realized how heavily scented their products are – even the powders! I don’t understand why powders need fragrance in them! Guerlain products have a stronger scent than Chanel. I’m doing my best to cut down on fragranced products, but sometimes you really want to try something and it has fragrance (like the Chanel Soleil Tan de Chanel Bronzing Makeup Base).

    What products did you see online and went in person to try out…and then decided you didn’t want it anymore?

    Love,

  • perricone md no lip gloss

    Review | Perricone No Lip Gloss Lip Gloss

    Hi Everyone!

    Today I am reviewing the No Lip Gloss Lip Gloss from Perricone. I was sent this lip gloss by Calissa, an independent site that sells products made with natural and sustainable ingredients.

    I’ve seen Perricone on Sephora. I know they have a No Makeup Makeup line. I know they have the foundation and a highlighter that I’ve had my eye on. So, I was excited to receive the Lip Gloss from the line.

    No Makeup Lipgloss is designed to mimic the natural shine and color of youthful lips. The elegant, non-tacky texture revives lip color and luster while promoting suppleness and nourishment- instantly smoothing and conditioning lips with Neuropeptides and Tocotrienols. Featuring a sheer buildable, universal tint to enhance, contour and impart a profusion of color.

    Ingredients: Active Ingredient: Zinc Oxide 3.50% Inactive Ingredients: Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Ethylene/Propylene/Styrene Copolymer, C10-30 Cholesterol/Lanosterol Esters, Butylene/Ethylene/Styrene Copolymer, Ethylenediamine/Stearyl Dimer Dilinoleate Copolymer, Vanillin, Synthetic Wax, Tocopheryl Acetate, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil, Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Glyceryl Isostearate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Red 7 Lake (CI 15850), Bisabolol, Red 27 (CI 45410), Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate, Dimethyl MEA, Tocotrienols, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5

    RATING: 5/5

    This lip gloss is so beautiful. It’s a slightly tinted, lightweight gloss that gives you that My Lips But Better effect. There’s no added fragrance, but it does smell like vanilla (like MAC lip products). It only comes in one shade, but I think it would look good on anyone since it just adds a beautiful sheen to your lips. It’s glossy, but not too glossy. Moisturizing, but not too sticky like other glosses I’ve tried.

    I definitely want to try other products from the No Makeup Makeup collection.

    If you would like to make a purchase on Calissa.com, use code 10FRIENDSOFCALISSA to get 10% off! (This is not an affiliate code, just a code for you to use to get some money off our purchase!)

    Check out my other posts on products I’ve received from Calissa:

    Bali Balm Lemon & Black Pepper Lip Balm
    Dr. Jackson’s Night Cream
    Goldfaden MD Bright Eyes
    MOR Emporium Lychee Flower Trio of Treasures
    Perricone MD Cold Plasma+ Face Serum

    Have you tried products from Perricone?

    Love,

  • spa sciences aero device

    Review | Spa Sciences AERO Device

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I am reviewing the AERO device from Spa Sciences which they kindly gifted to me.

    This is device claims to help your skincare absorb into your skin better and faster. Keep reading to find out what I think about this device and if the claims are true!

    AERO is a Trans epidermal delivery system that provides Triple Clinical Infusion™ a scientific research-based 3-in-1 technology. This innovative combination of sonic, ionic and thermal infusion maximizes the performance of ANY skincare product for better absorption and faster results. AERO is clinically proven, and Dermatologist approved to be 7 times more effective than when applying products with fingers alone to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, skin hydration, skin tone, skin brightness and other signs of premature aging. AERO is a true anti-aging breakthrough.

    It’s a rechargeable device that comes with a USB cable. It’s available in two colours: mint and white. Spa Sciences sent me the mint and I love it. It’s that retro mint shade that’s really pretty.

    When I first took it out of the packaging (before reading the instructions), I was like, ‘where’s the button to turn it on?!’ I realized that when it comes into contact with your skin, it turns on. The device is super smart because it won’t turn on if you’re gently wiping it down with a towel.

    I wish I had one of those devices that can tell you how hydrated your skin is because then I could really see how well the AERO works. I can feel a physical difference when I use it because some of my skincare doesn’t feel as tacky or oily after using the AERO.

    RATING: 4/5

    From what I can tell when I touch my face, it does help skincare absorb faster. I can’t say if it helps with fine lines or wrinkles, but this is a great little device for a reasonable price.

    Check out their Instagram!

    Have you tried Spa Sciences devices?

    Love,

    *This product was gifted to me, but all opinions are my own.

  • physicians formula murmuru butter butter bronzer pan

    August 2019 Product Empties

    Hi Everyone!

    Here are my empties from August. As you can see, I finished my Butter Bronzer. Keep reading to find out what else I finished this month!

    Physician’s Formula Murumuru Butter Butter Bronzer – I think most people have tried this bronzer and love it. I also love it, but I wish it didn’t have fragrance in it. Why does a powder need fragrance?! For this reason, I will be trying out different ones. I may come back to it if I can’t find one that performed as beautifully as this one.

    Repurchase? Maybe. If they came out with an unscented version, I would absolutely buy it!

    Simple Foaming Cleanser – This was an okay cleanser. I used to love foaming cleansers, but I’m starting to prefer cleansing milks, oils and gels now.

    Repurchase? No.

    Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser – This is a great cleanser for a great price (especially at Costco). I use it in the mornings and I sometimes use it for the body.

    Repurchase? Absolutely.

    Benefit Roller Lash Mascara – It was time to declutter this little guy. It’s a great mascara. While it’s not my fave of all time, I would definitely consider getting it in the full-size.

    Repurchase? Maybe.

    Picture taken when I first got it.

    Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water – I really enjoyed this primer water. It was great as a primer and as a setting spray. I don’t know if it necessarily prolonged my makeup, but it helped my powder products blend in with the skin.

    Repurchase? Yes!

    Subi Beauty Perfect Pimple Patches* (read my review) – These were great pimple patches. They’re like the Rael or COSRX Clear Fit ones. It comes in a pack of 18 x 10 mm patches.

    Repurchase? Probably not. As a Canadian, it’s cheaper for me to get the COSRX (from Chuusi.ca) or Rael ones (from Amazon).

    What did you finish this month?

    Love,

    *Products were gifted to me.

  • touch in sol no poreblem primer

    July/August 2019 Faves

    Hi Everyone!

    Bare Minerals Gen Nude Powder Blush in That Peach Tho – This is a beautiful peachy blush. I would definitely pick up other shades from this collection! I also really want to try Bare Minerals’ new Bounce & Blur Blush.

    Perricone MD No Lip Gloss Lip Gloss* – This is a beautiful lip gloss that has a very subtle tint. It’s not too sticky and it has a nice scent.

    Touch In Sol No Poreblem Primer – I’m late to the party on this one. This is a great primer and the price is even better! It makes my face look like it has a filter. Some people might be concerned about it clogging pores, I think it’s fine if you use it in moderation – Don’t use it every day so your skin can breathe.

    Cinema Secrets Makeup Brush Cleaner – As it says on the bottle, it’s a quick drying, rinse-free formula. I’ve previously tried the Sephora one which works well. I bought the Sephora one years ago and it smelled really nice and then I repurchased it and they had changed the formula or scent since then. I can’t describe the smell, but it kind of burns if you accidentally inhale it. This Cinema Secrets one smells like vanilla and Tati recently mentioned it as a fave in her “Sephora ‘VIB Sale’ Top Picks” videos.

    Eczema Honey Nut-Free Skin-Soothing Cream* (read my review) – This cream is great. I had an itchy spot and I put some cream on it and it instantly soothed it. I keep mine in the fridge so it keeps longer (but you don’t have to refrigerate) and it also gives the cream a cooling effect on the skin.

    Colourpop Brow Boss Gel in Clear – This quickly became a favourite brow gel. It’s clear, but it doesn’t leave your brows looking shiny.

    Love,

    Products marked with * were gifted to me.

  • volition beauty celery green cream hyaluronic acid + peptides

    Review | Volition Beauty Celery Green Cream with Hyaluronic Acid + Peptides

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I am reviewing the Celery Green Cream from Volition Beauty. In collaboration with Nastia Liukin, a gold medal gymnast, they created this cream.

    Volition Beauty is a really cool, innovative brand. Customers submit an idea for a product, then the community votes on which ones they want to be made.

    For those who dare to ask “what if?”…we listen. We believe that new beauty products should be created by real people with real beauty problems: people like you. Together, the Volition community—and that includes you—creates the next big things in beauty.

    What it is: An oil-free, celery-powered moisturizer that purifies and helps improve hydration retention for poreless, healthier-looking skin.

    Skin Type: Oily

    Skincare Concerns: Fine Lines and Wrinkles, Pores, and Oiliness

    Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Cetearyl Olivate, Apium Graveolens (Celery) Seed Extract, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf, Cucumis Melo Cantalupensis Fruit Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Fruit Extract, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Lactic Acid, Polysorbate 20, Calcium Stearate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Carbomer, Sorbitan Olivate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Hydroxide, Decyl Glucoside, Lauryl Glucoside, Bismuth Oxychloride, Chromium Oxide Greens, Citric Acid, Mica, Potassium Sorbate.

    I love that it’s clean at Sephora which means there’s no sulfates (SLS and SLES), parabens, phthalates, and other fillers. This cream doesn’t have any added fragrance, but it smells fresh and fruity (not like celery at all). It feels cool and refreshing and it’s lightweight.

    Personally, I wouldn’t get it again when I finish this one. It says it’s meant for oily skin types. I would say I’m combo, leaning toward dry. So this cream isn’t meant for me. If I did use it, I would need to mix it with an oil or something to give me the hydration I need. I’d rather spend the money on a product that’s meant for my skin type.

    RATING: 4/5

    I give it a high rating because I think that someone with oily skin would really love this cream.

    I think Volition Beauty is a really cool brand and I want to try their strawberry-c brightening serum since that’s targeted toward my skin type.

    Update: I have tried the strawberry-c brightening serum (read my review).

    Have you tried Volition Beauty?

    Love,

    *I was gifted this product by Volition Beauty.

  • elle erm anti-stress age perfecti=or rejuvenating and brightening cream

    First Impressions with Ellé Derm Australia

    Hi Everyone!

    Today I am reviewing an All-in-One Day and Night moisturizing cream. I was sent the Anti-Stress Age Perfector Rejuvenating & Brightening Cream from an Australian brand called ellé derm. A little bit about the brand:

    Founded by a pharmacist with over fourteen years experience in the pharmaceutical industry, we saw market demand for a product that is effective, derived from natural ingredients and have multiple benefits to fit in with our busy lifestyle.

    Anti-Stress Age Perfector Rejuvenating & Brightening Cream

    Designed to help improve skin clarity, brighten skin complexion and reduce appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

    Benefits:
    · Provide skin hydration for softer skin · Brighten skin complexion · Reduce appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

    Skin Types:
    All skin types, except very sensitive and eczema

    Ingredients: Water/Aqua, Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Inulin, Fructose, Stearic Acid, Squalane, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Coco-Caprylate, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Water, Butylene Glycol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Sodium Oleate, Oligopeptide-68, Disodium EDTA, Butylene Glycol [Natural, ECOCERT], Water, Cantella Asiatica Extract, Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract, Scutellaria Baicalensis Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Cetearyl Glucoside, Cetearyl Alcohol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Seed Butter, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Salicylic Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Fragrance [Essential Oils], Potassium Sorbate.

    RATING: 3.5/5

    Based on the description, it’s probably not the best for my skin type since I have both sensitive skin and eczema. I tried it out anyway and while I don’t have fine lines and wrinkles, I do have acne-prone skin and this cream has squalane and salicylic acid. I had a bad breakout on my chin from my period and the cream seems to be helping. It doesn’t have much of a scent which I like. It stays a bit tacky throughout the day, but that just means it doesn’t absorb too quickly and keeps your face hydrated. I used to use salicylic acid products all the time, but now I’ve cut it down to using it only when I need it.

    This is a nice cream, but it isn’t geared towards my skin type. I will continue using it when I have a breakout. It’s more beneficial for someone who doesn’t have sensitive skin or someone older since it helps with wrinkles and fine lines. Also, it’s an Australian brand and you have to pay shipping for international orders. If you live in Australia, this is a nice brand to try out.

    Have you heard of Ellé Derm Australia? Check them out on Instagram or Facebook!

    Love,

  • joico moisture recovery conditioner for dry hair

    Review | Joico Moisture Recovery Conditioner

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing the Joico Moisture Recovery Conditioner that I bought at the Shiseido Warehouse Sale.

    Check out my haul!

    A one-minute intensely hydrating conditioner for all hair types needing moisture and reconstruction.

    Marine botanicals, sea kelp, brown algae and essential minerals restore the hydrolipidic barrier and prevent dehydration.

    After just one use, this exceptional conditioner will detangle your dry hair to reduce breakage by 55% as it hydrates and strengthens. Your hair will become smoother and respond to styling better with greater fluidity.

    RATING: 5/5

    I love the scent of this conditioner and it makes my hair feel so soft and smooth. I wouldn’t say I have really dry hair, but if I don’t use conditioner, I can definitely feel the difference. I would definitely buy it again at a future warehouse sale. Would I pay full price at the drugstore? Probably not since I know it’s cheaper at the sale. I would just stock up on a year’s worth.

    Love,

  • vii code under eye 02m oxygen masks

    50/50 | Under Eye Masks

    Hi Everyone!

    I’m starting a new blog series – talking about the differences in opinions for a certain beauty topic.

    Today, the topic is split at 50/50 on under eye masks…how do you wear them?

    You know how some eye masks are shaped like an apostrophe? Skinny on one side and wider on the other side? How do you wear them? Skinny on the inside or the outside?

    This all started when I was scrolling through Instagram and saw a girl wearing under eye masks where the skinny part was on the inside. and I thought…OMG! Is that how you’re supposed to wear them? I’ve always worn the wider part on the inside because it covers more of the under eye area….so I looked it up on Google to see and saw masks worn both ways.

    wide on inside (top), wide on outside (bottom)

    I did an Instagram poll to see what you guys thought and the results were 50/50. I also made a post on Instagram and I got quite a few comments. Here are some of their answers (in my caption, I wrote that I use wide on the inside):

    I’ve wondered this exact same thing!!! I’ve always worn mine with the fat part on the inner eye too, but saw someone wearing them the other way so I thought I was wrong! 😅 Let us know the results of your poll! – @mom_into_beauty

    Interesting, I’m the opposite! My crows feet expand pretty far down, so I prefer the wide part on the outside. Never tried the other way though – @classic.skin

    Maybe I’m doing it wrong lol the ones I buy the girl on the package has the skinny edge to the inside – @melsmakeupdesk

    I do mine either way depending on what area I want to target but for the most part, I wear the fat side on the inner part to help with dryness. I’ll put the fatter part on the outside every now and then to target crows feet! – @lipglossnlashes82

    Lol I switch it up, that way I figure I’m doing it correctly at least half of the time. #itsamystery – @nowjenplans


    I tried it out both ways and I found that skinny on the inside looked more aesthetically pleasing when taking a selfie. When the skinny part is on the inside, I apply the masks closer to my nose (and slightly on my nose). This makes your face and nose look slimmer. When I put the wider part on the inside, they don’t touch my nose and therefore my face and nose look wider.

    I asked my family and it was also 50/50. I’ve always done wider on the inside because I have dry under eyes. I asked my dad and he said he would do the same. I asked my mom and sister and they both said wider on the outside. My sister said she instinctively put the wide part on the outside, but it’s also because her cheeks are dry.

    There’s no right or wrong way to put them on. We are all different and we use under eye masks for different purposes. Most people wear them to target different areas: dark circles, puffy under eyes, crow’s feet, etc.

    You wear the wider part depending on what you’re targeting.

    WIDER ON THE OUTSIDE: If you have crow’s feet
    WIDER ON THE INSIDE: If you have dry or puffy under eyes, or dark circles

    How do you wear under eye masks?

    Love,

  • vii code under eye 02m oxygen masks

    First Impressions with VIIcode | #sponsored

    Hi Everyone!

    This post is brought to you by VIIcode Skincare. This is a skincare brand that focuses on the eyes! Today, I am sharing my thoughts on the VIIcode O2M Oxygen Eye Mask for All Night Repair.

    They sent over a box which contains 6 pairs of eye masks. When I was reading the description, I wondered how these masks worked. Are they saturated in serum/essence like sheet masks? How do they stay on while you sleep?

    These easy-to-use under eye pads are the first eye masks that are safe to use for 8 hours. With the most natural potent antioxidants, skin will be refreshed and invigorated overnight. Peel, stick, and go to sleep.

    BENEFITS

    Skin is instantly refreshed

    Minimize visible signs of aging around eyes

    Reduce fine lines and wrinkles effectively

    Instantly moisturize and soothe delicate under eye area

    I eagerly opened the package to see what the eye masks looked like. One side is cotton-y and the other has a gel-like membrane covered by a plastic backing.

    Unlike other eye masks I’ve tried, they aren’t soaked in serum/essence. They have a very light, fresh scent and they are comfortable to wear.

    It’s a bit hard to see, but I’m peeling the plastic backing off of the top eye mask.

    Apply to cleansed, dry skin and wear for up to 8 hours. The masks stay on well and can easily be repositioned.

    When I removed the masks, my under eyes felt cool and refreshed. The under eye area is a bit tacky right after removing the masks, but they’re not a sticky tacky – It’s like after you apply an eye cream.

    These masks are meant for overnight use. I tried sleeping with them, but I’m not used to having something on my under eyes in bed. I personally prefer using them while I’m awake – either right before bed or as soon as I wake up!

    RATING: 4/5

    I can’t comment on how effective the masks are at targeting fine lines and wrinkles, but my under eyes felt smooth and hydrated. Also, you can use them as eyeshadow shields once you’ve used them. These masks felt refreshing and they’re different from any other eye masks I’ve tried. 

    Check out VIIcode on Instagram!

    Love,

    *This is a sponsored post, but all opinions are my own.

  • project pan makeup empties

    Project Pan Update | 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    It’s been six months since my last Project Pan update!

    Check out my last update and my original 2019 Project Pan post!

    STILL IN MY COLLECTION

    Marcelle Velvet Gel Lip Liner in Rosy Nude – Still working on this one because I don’t wear lipstick that often.

    FINISHED

    Bobbi Brown Rich Lip Color in Bare Pink – This was a beautiful lipstick shade. I’ve been leaning more towards glosses and lip balms lately, so I probably wouldn’t repurchase this one.

    Lancôme Skin Feels Good Skin Nourishing Foundation in 01N Nude Vanilla (read my review) – Loved this foundation, but I wish it came in more shades. If they expand to a shade that matches me better, I would definitely repurchase!

    DECLUTTERED

    MAC Cremesheen Glass in It’s A Strike – I bought this at the MAC Warehouse Sale in 2017 and it started to smell different, so I decided to declutter it.

    MAC Patentpolish Lip Pencil in Kittenish – I also bought this at the MAC Warehouse Sale and I liked it, but again, I am leaning more towards glosses and balms.

    TheBalm Batter Up Eyeshadow Sticks in Dugout and Shutout (read my review) – I decided to declutter these because I just didn’t reach for them when I would wear eyeshadows.

    So, my 2019 Project Pan kind of failed since I ended up decluttering quite a few of the products. It did make me realize that I need to think twice before I go and buy something that I can’t return (from a warehouse sale or Winners – TheBalm Batter Up sticks were from Winners). 

    Love,

  • anhyd organics cleanse tone refresh rose water facial toner

    My Mom’s Skincare Routine

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m sharing the skincare products in my mom’s routine!

    Check out my mom’s makeup routine!

    CLEANSER

    Andalou Naturals 1000 Roses Cleansing Foam

    My mom didn’t like the cleanser I was using, so she bought one from Winners by Andalou Naturals. I’ve never heard of the brand before, but they have pretty colourful bottles.

    TONER

    Andalou Naturals Coconut Water Firming Toner

    Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner

    ANHYD Organics Rose Water Facial Toner (read my review)

    My mom ran out of the toner I gave her (Laneige Essential Power Skin Toner for Normal to Dry Skin), so she bought the Andalou Natural Coconut Water Firming Toner from Winners. Then the Neutrogena Toner was on sale and she bought that one. Then, I was sent the ANHYD Organics one…so now she has three! I guess it will be a long time before I buy the Fresh Rose Floral Toner that she wanted to try!

    She enjoys all three of these toners and rotates between the three. She likes rose-scented and coconut-scented products. 

    SERUM

    Ole Henriksen Vitamin C Truth Serum

    This smells like an orange creamsicle and my mom says it dries down after a bit without being tacky. Unfortunately, she hasn’t noticed any difference in her skin and wouldn’t repurchase.

    CREAMS/EMULSIONS

    Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Day Cream

    Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Day Emulsion

    Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Night Cream

    She loves the Benefiance WrinkleResist24 line of products. They have a fresh floral scent. I bought the day cream for her to use in the morning, but she didn’t like the pot. For day time, she prefers a bottle with a pump, so I ordered the Day Emulsion for her.

    EYE CREAM

    Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Eye Cream

    I was at Sephora and asked the lady what the best eye cream was for my mom and she gave me a sample of this one. My mom has been using it ever since.

    What’s in your skincare routine?

    Love,

  • fourth ray matcha face milk rainfall 2% hyaluronic acid serum

    First Impressions with Fourth Ray Beauty

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m be reviewing two products that I purchased from Fourth Ray Beauty. I was making my first order from Colourpop and thought I would give Fourth Ray a try. I love the packaging of their products – simple and clean. I decided to try the Rainfall 2% Hyaluronic Acid Serum and the Matcha Face Milk.

    Rainfall 2% Hyaluronic Acid Serum

    Instantly drenches skin with hydration, immediately delivering replenishing and plumping benefits for a more bouncy, youthful-looking complexion.

    RATING: 4/5

    I love Hyaluronic Acid. This serum was very nice, but I did notice that it pilled sometimes if I used too much. Eventually, I figured out the right amount and I would also apply it to a slightly damp face. I also layered cream on top by pressing it in (making sure not to accidentally rub) which prevented pilling as well. I would definitely consider repurchasing this serum.

    Matcha Face Milk

    A creamy, lightweight moisture booster to refreshen tired skin. Formulated with Matcha Milk, Jojoba Milk, Rice Milk, White Tea, and Kale, this formula will quench your skin with antioxidants for a more energized complexion.

    RATING: 3/5

    I like the texture of this face milk and it makes your skin look radiant. It dries down after a while. I love matcha – the taste and the smell, but this doesn’t really smell like matcha to me which was disappointing. I don’t really love the smell of this and for that reason, I wouldn’t repurchase this one.

    I do want to try their other face milks – they released a bunch of products after I purchased the matcha one. I would definitely try some of their other products next time I make an order.

    Love,

  • moms everyday makeup

    My Mom’s Everyday Makeup | 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    So, here’s an update to my mom’s makeup routine!

    Check out my previous post here!

    Her skin type is oily and she uses powder foundations. She tried a cushion, but ended up giving it to me because she doesn’t like liquid foundation. She dislikes eye makeup (especially mascara), so she only ever curls her lashes.

    Morning Skincare – Update

    Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Day Emulsion – Mom loves the Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 collection. Originally, I bought her the Day Cream, but she didn’t like that it came in a pot (for her day cream…for some reason, she’s fine with using the potted creams for nighttime). So, we got the Day Emulsion which comes in a bottle with a pump. She must like it because she bought two more bottles at the Shiseido Warehouse Sale.

    She also has a few different SPF products floating around. I don’t know which one she’s currently using on her face, but we have the Shiseido Ultra Sun Protection Lotion and the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer one.

    Primer & Colour Corrector – Update

    Make Up For Ever Step 1 Equalizer Primer (Smoothing)

    L’Oreal Magic Skin Beautifier BB Cream- Anti-Redness (read my review) – My mom said the smell is starting to affect her too, so if anyone knows of a product that’s similar, please let me know!

    Foundation – Update

    After the Sephora MicroSmooth Baked Foundation, she used the Shiseido Sheer and Perfect Compact Foundation in I20 Natural Light Ivory. This was a nice foundation, but the shade wasn’t quite right and she finished it fairly quickly compared to the Sephora foundation because the pan isn’t very deep.

    Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Powder Foundation in 5.5 – The shade 5.5 is a bit dark, so if she were to repurchase, she’d go down a shade or two. She’s enjoying the foundation – it’s very smooth and looks beautiful. One thing she doesn’t like about the compact is that it comes with a sponge and the middle part with the powder flops back and forth (like the Physician’s Formula Butter Bronzer), powder collects in the sponge section which is wasteful.

    Concealer – No Update

    Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Flawless Wear Concealer in Warm Light Medium

    She still uses this concealer and she likes the consistency.

    Eyes – No Update

    Tweezerman Lash Curler

    She doesn’t wear eyeshadow or mascara.

    Blush – Update

    Lancôme Blush Subtil in Aplum – Plum-mauve blushes are her favourite! The compact for this blush isn’t the best though. My mom accidentally dropped it and it chipped off the edge because it’s just plastic. Also, why do high end blushes have to come with those useless brushes?

    Lips – Update

    MAC Patentpolish Lip Pencil in Spontaneous – I bought this at the MAC Warehouse Sale and my mom is just using it to finish.

    MAC Cremesheen Glass in It’s A Strike – Same as the patentpolish pencil, this is not the right shade for her and she’s just using it to finish it.

    Makeup she has in her purse to touch-up throughout the day:

    Clinique Superpowder Double Face Makeup in Matte Neutral – to get rid of the shine.

    MAC Lustre Lipstick in Midimauve – I gave her this one since it’s a more sheer lipstick than the satin lipsticks. It has a bit of pigment and shine – looks more like a tinted balm.

    Vaseline – glossy and easy to apply without a mirror.

    What do you use for your everyday look?

    Love,

  • urban juve skincare review sponsored

    First Impressions with Urban Juve |#sponsored

    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,