• 15 Beauty Favourites I’ve Repurchased | 2018

    August 13, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    I love a lot of different makeup products, but surprisingly I’ve only repurchased a small number of products and most of them are skincare. There are so many amazing products out there that I want to try and I only really started getting into makeup a few years ago. I mean I’ve always liked makeup, but I’m still learning and hearing about new brands and products.

    Before 2013, I never wore foundation or primers. My first foundation was the Becca Ever-Matte Shine Proof Foundation. I rarely wore it because it was so expensive and I had no idea what I was doing. I didn’t know primer was a thing back then and I told the Sephora lady that I wanted full coverage and I liked matte. She told me to buy a flat liquid foundation brush because it’s better for applying full coverage. I learned about using sponges years later and even then, I didn’t know it was supposed to be damp. *idea pops into head*…maybe I’ll do a blog post on things I’ve learned over the past few years. It could help someone who’s just getting into makeup. Watching videos on YouTube and reading other blogs has helped me a lot. There have been so many times where I was like “OOOHHH!!!! that makes so much more sense!!!” Anyway, the Becca foundation went bad before I even finished it (it oxidized- I had no idea what ‘oxidizing’ was back then. I just knew that the foundation had turned orange). Before 2016, I had never worn bronzer or highlighter and didn’t like wearing lipstick; I mostly wore lip balm, vaseline or gloss.

    I have yet to find a lot of my holy grail products. I have a lot of favourites, but I don’t have products in each category that I could safely say, “I only need to buy this mascara/concealer/foundation from now on!” In my favourites list, I have a lot of products that I am planning to repurchase, I just haven’t had the chance to do so. I want to finish up other products I have first (as you’ll know from my mid-year makeup inventory). Since doing my makeup inventory, I’ve decluttered a lot of things.

    Here are the 15 products I’ve repurchased (I’m sure there’s more, but these are the ones I could think of so far):

    L’Oreal Voluminous Original Mascara – This was a favourite of mine in high school and I decided to get it again. It’s still a fave of mine- I wouldn’t say it gives amazing volume, but it helps my lashes.

    L’Oreal Colour Riche Collection Exclusive Lipstick in 370 Jennifer’s Nude – I’ve probably talked about this lipstick so much that you’re tired of it by now, but it’s such a beautiful pinky-peachy-nude (it’s peachy when I swatch it, but not on my lips).

    NYX Micro Brow Pencil – I love this brow pencil. It’s a great pencil for the price, but recently, I have been loving the Benefit Precisely My Brow Pencil.

    Glow Recipe Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser (read my review) – I really like this cleanser and the fact that it removes makeup is a plus. I’ve been buying the tiny travel-sized ones from Winners because it’s hard to get Glow Recipe in Canada (their website ships to Canada, but I’m worried I’ll get charged duties- anyone order from Glow Recipe and know if there’s any duties?)

    Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask (read my review) – This sleeping mask smells so good and when I wake up in the morning, my face feels hydrated.

    Garnier Micellar Water – I love this micellar water. I feel like I should try a different brand just to compare it. Maybe I’ll do that once I’ve finished the bottles I have.

    The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil Targeted Gel Blemish Stick (read my review) – I bought more of these on sale, but I think I will purchase something else for spot treatments. I don’t really like how it’s like a concealer where you use a doefoot applicator to apply it and then put it back into the tube.

    The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil Anti-Imperfection Daily Solution (read my review) – I used this everyday until I finished the bottle. As a test, I stopped using it for a few weeks and then started applying it again and my face cleared up. Of course, I still have the dark spots from the acne, but it flattened them out which makes it easier to apply makeup.

    COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches (read my review) – These things are great. If you haven’t tried acne patches, you should!

    The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Rice Bran Foaming Cleanser, The Face Shop Phyto Charcoal Cleanser & The Face Shop 365 Spearmint Cleanser – I’ve bought these cleansers multiple times. I would use them every day when I showered (rotating between the two that I had in the bathroom). I think these cleansers were so good that they were making my face dry because I ran out of these cleansers a while ago and I’ve noticed my face hasn’t been as dry (still dry in some areas, but not as bad). When I buy these cleansers again, I’ll only buy one at a time and use it once or twice a week instead of daily.

    Simple Makeup Wipes – I’ve been buying these at Winners because they’re cheaper there. I really like these makeup wipes and they’re great on the go, but since I’ve been using them, I haven’t been using my micellar water as much. Once I finish my current pack, I’ll go back to micellar water.

    Soo’Ae Purifying Brightening Peeling Gel (read my review) – This peeling gel is awesome. It’s disgusting how your skin exfoliates off in little balls, but it works so well.

    Pixi Glow Tonic – When I was using the little bottle of this from a holiday kit, my face looked brighter and clearer.

    What products have you repurchased?

    Love,

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  • Review | The Face Shop Jeju Volcanic Lava Self-Heating Clay Mask

    August 10, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing The Face Shop’s Jeju Volcanic Lava Self-Heating Clay Mask. If you’re a regular reader of the blog, you’ll know that I love the cleansers from The Face Shop because they make me feel squeaky clean. I picked up the clay mask last year when I bought a few cleansers and popped this into the cart to give it a try. I thought I would review it on the blog because it’s an interesting product and my first time using a self-heating mask- Keep reading to find out if it actually works!

    The heating pore mask containing Jeju Volcanic Ash purifies skin as a warm sensation opens pores upon application.

    Jeju Volcanic Ash is the product of volcanic activity on Jeju Island. Its porous texture absorbs excess sebum and provides intensive pore care.

    City Defender Complex*, formulated with ingredients from Jeju Island, helps defend skin against the elements and fine dust.

    After washing your face, apply a sufficient amount and spread evenly on areas requiring pore care. Gently massage for 3 to 5 minutes and rinse off with warm water.

    The mask comes in a hard plastic bottle that has a silicone applicator. It’s quite interesting because you press the ‘button’ on the side and the mask comes out from a hole in the silicone pad. If you don’t spread it evenly though, it can drip off. So, make sure you have an even layer on your face. The consistency isn’t too thick or runny; it’s kind of like honey and it doesn’t smell like anything. It’s brown and you can see tiny specks of black (the ash). It’s not like other clay masks where you wait for it to dry and then wash it off. You massage it for a few minutes and then wash it off.

    As soon as you apply it, you can feel it start to heat up. I like using a larger silicone pad to massage it in. It easily removes with water (it’s not sticky or anything), but I do like to use a cleanser and use some cold water to close up the pores again. After every use, I also like to run the applicator under some warm water to clean it off.

    RATING: 3/5

    To be honest, I don’t really know how well this works. While my face does feel clean and pretty smooth after using it, I don’t know how deeply it’s cleaning the pores. Therefore, I’m giving it a 3/5 because it works pretty well, but it is kind of pricey (i would wait for a sale). I think I’d rather try other products in the Jeju Volcanic Lava line, possibly the Pore Mud Pack, Pore Scrub Foam or the Peel Off Nose Pack. Although, I did think of a good use for it. Since it opens up the pores, I thought I would take advantage and do a nose strip. I wonder how this would work on sore muscles since it’s self-heating? The perfect time to do it would be right before a shower or something so it’s easy to rinse off. I should give it a try.

    Have you tried self-heating masks or anything from the Jeju Volcanic Lava collection?

    Love,

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  • COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches vs. Nexcare Acne Absorbing Covers

    This or That | COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches vs. Nexcare Acne Absorbing Covers

    August 8, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m comparing Acne patches! COSRX vs. Nexcare! I love the COSRX patches (read my review) and I thought that I should try another brand to see if they all perform the same. So, keep reading if you want to find out which one I like better!

    Don’t worry! No gross pictures showing used pimple patches. You’ll just have to trust me on the fact that they both work! 😉

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    COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches

    The thin clear hydrocolloid patch feels similar to a hydrogel sheet mask in texture, adhering your skin strongly. It’ll stay on through showering and washing! It treats breakouts by eliminating infection and bacteria, which is what causes them in the first place. It’s able to breakdown debris from blackheads and absorb gunk from whiteheads overnight, so you won’t experience a harsh dry patch from using this. It even helps flatten and heal cystic acne faster!

    24 patches per pack (3 sizes):

    • 10 x 7mm
    • 5 x 10mm
    • 9 x 12mm

    20180806_000123

    Nexcare Acne Absorbing Covers (2 sizes)

    Works like a sponge to absorb pus and oil

    Visibly indicates that it is working

    Acts as a protective cover, reducing the urge to squeeze

    Drug-free, non-drying

    36 patches per pack:

    • 24 x 8mm
    • 12 x 12mm

    72 patches per pack:

    • 48 x 8mm
    • 24 x 12mm

    20180806_000245
    COSRX (left), Nexcare (right)

    The Nexcare patches have a kind of plastic bandaid-y smell and they are also a bit tacky on top of the patch too. The COSRX ones have no smell and are not sticky on top. Both patches are the same thickness (from what I can see) and I think the Nexcare ones are slightly more yellow. When I have them on, you can see that I’m wearing it, but when I have the COSRX ones, you need to get closer to see that I’m wearing a patch.

    I like that the Nexcare covers are packaged on a clear sheet so it’s easier to see how many you have left. I also like that they are sandwiched between two clear sheets. They are stuck to one and the other is to cover them. For the COSRX patches, they are packaged on a white sheet, so it’s harder to see them sometimes.

    For both patches, it says you can wear them under makeup. Since they are thicker though, the makeup would collect around the patches and emphasized the patch more. You have to make sure to carefully blend out around it if you want to wear makeup on top. I choose not to wear patches when I wear makeup. I tend not to wear pimple patches outdoors unless it’s in a spot that’s hard to see.

    WINNER: COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches

    I used the acne patches overnight and the Nexcare ones came off in my hair two times. The COSRX ones are also cheaper (even when you get less per package) for Canadians if you’re buying online. The Nexcare ones were about $10-12 while the COSRX ones are $4.50 on chuusi.ca and if you bought two, you’d get more patches.

    The COSRX ones have 3 sizes whereas the Nexcare patches have 2 sizes. I usually have larger blemishes so the small COSRX patches are often leftover until I have a small enough pimple to use it. They also have more of the small size in a pack unfortunately.

    I’ve compared the COSRX patches with Rael Miracle Patches (read it here).

    I’ve also written a This or That comparing a few different brands (read it here).

    Have you tried acne patches? What’s your fave brand?

    Love,

    jen

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  • Maybelline Eyestudio Color Tattoo Metal 24hr Cream Gel Eye Shadow vs. Revlon ColorStay Crème Eye Shadow

    This or That | Maybelline Eyestudio Color Tattoo Metal 24hr Cream Gel Eye Shadow vs. Revlon ColorStay Crème Eye Shadow

    August 6, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    Recently, I was watching a Kathleen Lights video and she said how good the Maybelline Color Tattoo Cream Shadow was, so I thought I’d give it a try. Then, about a day later, I saw an IG pic by editionalbeauty (check out her blog) of her collection of Revlon ColorStay cream shadows. I thought, “I wonder how the two drugstore brands compare!” So, I grabbed the Revlon cream shadow in a shade as similar as the nude/gold one I picked up by Maybelline. The shades aren’t the same, but I am comparing the two shadows for their longevity and quality. Since I chose lighter shades, I can’t say if the pigmentation for the darker ones are different.

    maybelline v revlon shadows (1)

    Maybelline Eyestudio Color Tattoo Metal 24hr Cream Gel Eye Shadow in Barely Branded

    Dare to get inked! Our ink technology creates super-saturated colour. Cream gel smooths on for vibrant colour that lasts for 24-hours. Ophthalmologist tested. Dermatologist tested. Allergy tested. Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

    Step 1. Using fingertips, apply eye shadow from the inner corner and work outwards. Step 2. For added drama, reapply to darken.

    maybelline v revlon shadows

    Revlon ColorStay Crème Eye Shadow in Crème Brûlée 705 – It comes with a brush that slides into the cap. I thought the brush was useless, the pigmentation was better when I used my finger to apply the shadow.

    Introducing 6 new highly-pigmented bold shades with finishes ranging from matte to shimmer. Luxurious, longwear crème eye shadow with a pro-inspired built-in-brush designed for easy, mess free application. Wears up to 24 hours & waterproof. 

    maybelline vs revlon cream shadows
    Maybelline (left), Revlon

    When dipping your finger into the pot, don’t press too hard. I found the best way was to lightly swirl my finger in the pot so that I didn’t get clumps of the shadow on my finger.

    I did a few different wear tests to see how they performed:

    TEST #1- no eyeshadow primer, no shadow

    I wanted to test the longevity of both products without any primer and no shadows on top. By the 2nd hour, both were starting to crease near the inner corner of my eye.

    TEST #2- with eyeshadow primer, and eyeshadow on top (half of lid)

    I used Etude House Proof 10 Eyeshadow Primer and then I used a light brown shade to smoke out the outer corner. Both shadows creased by the 5th or 6th hour, but they held up well until then.

    TEST #3– using the cream shadow as a base

    For the 3rd test, I basically did the same as test #2, but I also applied a shimmery rose gold shade on the lid.

    Both shadows looked good as a shadow on their own and as a base for a shimmery powder shadow. I highly suggest eyeshadow primer when you use it though. It definitely extended the wear time and my lids don’t get super oily.

    maybelline color tattoo, revlon cream shadow
    Maybelline (top), Revlon

    The Revlon isn’t as pigmented after one swipe, but it is buildable. Both look good alone for a simple, shimmery lid. For me, I liked when I used the cream shadows all over the lid and then applied a brown shade on the outer corner and lower lashline to smoke it out.

    Comparing the two shades I got, I think I like the Revlon one better because it’s more rose gold while the Maybelline is more yellow gold. Both are around the same price (around $10), but you get more in the Revlon pot (0.18oz/5.2g) than the Maybelline one (0.14oz/4g). Both come in shimmery and matte shades.

    I don’t know if it’s just me, but I feel like the Revlon shadow is a bit more creamy. When I dip my finger into it, it feels a bit softer.

    Both came off easily with my Garnier Micellar Water. There may be residual sparkles left, but the colour removes easily.

    WINNER: Revlon ColorStay Crème Eye Shadow

    Revlon ekes out a victory here. Both perform really well, but I think I prefer Revlon because it blends more nicely for my monolids. Because it’s less pigmented, it looks more seamless when you blend it on the lid. Since I don’t have a crease, I don’t like when shimmery eyeshadows go too high on my lids (that’s just me though).

    Do you use cream shadows? What are your faves?

    Love,

    jen

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  • real techniques miracle complexion sponge vs sephora total coverage sponge

    Dupe It Out | Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge vs. Sephora Total Coverage Sponge

    August 3, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    I’m back with another Dupe It Out. It’s been a while since I’ve done one. Today’s duel: Real Techniques vs. Sephora! Recently, I purchased a 4-pack of the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion sponges at Winners for $20. I was already using the Sephora Total Coverage Sponge, so I thought I would compare the two. I know Sephora wasn’t the first to come out with a beauty sponge and the Real Techniques one isn’t a dupe for it, but they’re both makeup sponges and they have similar textures and density.

    real techniques sponge

    Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge – If you pick up the sponge from the drugstore, this sponge could be $10 each, but if you pick it up at Winners, and get the 4-pack, it’s $5 each.

    This versatile beauty tool was designed with a revolutionary foam technology to evenly blend makeup for a smooth, enhanced finish. Use damp for a dewy glow or dry for a full coverage.

    • rounded sides blend large areas of the face with a dabbing motion
    • precision tip covers blemishes and imperfections
    • flat edge for contouring around the eyes and nose
    • ideal for liquid foundation
    • latex-free

    For best results, replace your makeup sponge every 1-3 months.

    sephora sponge

    Sephora Total Coverage Sponge – I bought the sponge that comes with the bar soap. Before buying this one, I had only bought ones from Winners that are $4-6.

    This sponge is specially designed to give makeup an expert boost. The wide base can cover the larger surfaces of the face, while the pointed tip is perfect for contouring around curves, and precision application around the nose, chin, and under the eyes. This sponge is intended to be used wet. The wetter the sponge, the more sheer the coverage. It is formulated without natural latex.

    real techniques vs sephora

    Both have the same feel and density (how squishy they are when wet). I’ve used some sponges that are denser and basically bounce off your face because they’re so hard. Most sponges I’ve picked up at Winners have the same feel and density (if you want a cheaper version of the Sephora one).

    I tested out both sponges with liquid and stick foundations and they both performed the same; blending the foundations beautifully. The only thing that sets them apart are the price, shape and size.

    WINNER: Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge won for the following categories:

    • More budget-friendly
    • Faster blending because it’s bigger
    • Easier for baking because of the flat side
    • Better blending for stick foundations

    WINNER: Sephora Total Coverage Sponge won for the following categories:

    • Easier to blend under eyes because tip is smaller

    If I had to choose, Real Techniques would win. I can’t say if it would win against the beauty blender because I’ve never tried one (and I don’t really plan to spend $20+ on a sponge in the near future), but it wins in more categories than the Sephora sponge. If you like smaller sponges, I also saw another Real Techniques pack that had 2 of the regular orange ones, 3 mini ones and 1 pink one that’s shaped more like the Sephora one, but it also has a flat side too.

    ss.jpeg

    OVERALL WINNER: Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge

    Which makeup sponge is your favourite?

    Love,

    jen

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  • July 2018 Product Empties

    August 1, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    There were quite a few products this month that I finished that I will not be repurchasing. I decluttered a bit of makeup while doing my mid-year makeup inventory (read the first post of my makeup inventory). Keep reading to find out which ones!

    Live Clean Apple Cider Clarifying Shampoo – I won this in a giveaway and I got 5 shampoos and 5 conditioners. I tried all 10 by using about 1/3 of each shampoo before switching to see which one I liked the best. This one made my hair feel clean and look shiny, but it was my least favourite scent of the 5 shampoos. Since it’s apple cider, it smelled like apple juice to me.

    Repurchase? Not this particular shampoo, but I would purchase others from Live Clean.

    Live Clean Exotic Nectar Argan Oil Restorative Conditioner – After trying each of the shampoos with their matching conditioners, I would switch back and forth between using the Apple Cider Ultra Light conditioner and this one. Since the Apple Cider one is very light, it didn’t make my hair as soft as this conditioner.

    Repurchase? Not this particular conditioner, but I would purchase others from Live Clean.

    Bioderma Hydrabio Gel-Cream – This cream was okay. Nothing special for me.

    Repurchase? No.

    Purlisse Blue Lotus 4-in-1 Eye Adore Serum – Sorry, Purlisse, I did not ADORE this serum. My under eye area always felt tacky.

    Repurchase? No.

    The Face Shop Smart Peeling Mild Papaya – I liked this when I first got it, but now there are so many other peeling gels out there. Since this one is goopy, I’d rather pick up the Soo’Ae peeling gel (read my review).

    Repurchase? No.

    Glow Recipe Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser – I like this cleanser and it removes makeup too!

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Tarte Deep Dive Cleansing Gel Rainforest of the Sea – It cleansed okay, but it’s a bit pricey for the size.

    Repurchase? No.

    The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil Targeted Gel Blemish Stick (read my review) – As you may know, I love the tea tree oil line from The Body Shop. This is a good spot treatment, but since you’re treating blemishes, I feel like it’s a bit unsanitary to stick it back in after applying to my pimple. I want to try something else for a spot treatment; maybe I’ll try the Mario Badescu Drying Lotion (I’ve tried the Kate Somerville EradiKate and one that’s similar from the Face Shop).

    Repurchase? If it’s on sale, maybe. I prefer other products from the Tea Tree Oil line even though this one does work pretty well.

    Garnier SkinActive Micellar All-in-One Cleansing Water – Surprisingly, this took a long time to finish. It’s probably because I started using makeup wipes. I should probably start using micellar water more because it’s gentler.

    Repurchase? Absolutely! I love Micellar Water for removing makeup.

    Simple Eye Make-Up Remover Pads – My mom picked these up at Walmart because they were on sale. They removed makeup well, they were basically cotton rounds soaked in makeup remover.

    Repurchase? No. I don’t feel like they did any better at removing my makeup than regular makeup wipes.

    Urban Decay Perversion Mascara – This was a good mascara, but not my fave. It did darken my lashes though.

    Repurchase? Probably not.

    NYX Micro Brow Pencil in Black – I love this brow pencil. It gives me natural, but not too harsh brows (even with the black shade).

    Repurchase? Already have!

    NYX Makeup Setting Spray (Matte) – This setting spray is okay; sometimes it made my face feel tight and occasionally, I would (accidentally) get it into my eye and my eyes would water. I plan to pick up the Mac Fix + in its place.

    Repurchase? Probably not.

    Here are the products I decluttered:

    Coastal Scents Lipstick in 2 – The shade I got was a bright purpley-pink which I didn’t love. It sunk into the lines in my lips.

    Repurchase? No. Unfortunately, living in Canada, I get charged for duties when ordering from Coastal Scents, so I’d rather get a $10 lipstick instead of a $4 USD lipstick where I’ll get charged for duties.

    Tarte Tarteist Creamy Matte Lip Paint in Birthday Suit – I got this in the Sephora Birthday gift last year. I didn’t start using it til a few months after my birthday, but I think it’s time to retire it because it’s drying out. I really liked this. The formula wasn’t too drying and it looked pretty with a lip gloss on top too.

    Repurchase? I would consider buying a full-sized lip paint, but I know there are a lot of liquid lipsticks from the drugstore that are cult favourites. I would prefer to pay more for a bullet lipstick since those have a longer shelf life.

    MAC Cremesheen Lipstick in Créme Cup – I love MAC lipsticks and this is a beautiful lipstick shade, but it was too light for me. I prefer the more nude/mauve/brown shades instead of the pink ones on my skin tone.

    Repurchase? Not in this shade.

    MAC Fluidline Pen in Retro Black – I bought this at the MAC Warehouse Sale (check out my haul) because I’ve only used drugstore liquid liners, so I thought I’d give it a try since it was on sale. I am terrible at doing wings and I don’t line my lids with liquid liner that often. I prefer using kohl liner and smoking it out. I think I will stick to drugstore brands. I know Kat Von D’s Tattoo liner is a cult fave, but I don’t use it enough to want to splurge on it.

    Repurchase? They no longer sell it in Retro Black, but if they did, I don’t think I would repurchase.

    Estée Lauder Sumptuous Knockout Defining Lift and Fan Mascara in Black – I didn’t like the brush; the bristles were hard and short.

    Repurchase? No. If I bought high-end mascaras, this would not be on my list of mascaras I want to repurchase.

    L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara in Black – I just don’t like the hourglass shape of the Lash Paradise mascara.

    Repurchase? No, I prefer other drugstore mascaras.

    Wet N Wild Photo Focus Foundation in Buff Bisque – This foundation had a spatula that dips into the foundation bottle instead of a pump. I didn’t like this because it’s much easier for bacteria to get in. Especially if you apply the foundation from the spatula directly onto your face. I decided to declutter this because 1) the shade I got was too orange and I don’t think mixing it with anything would help 2) I haven’t been reaching for it when I’m deciding which foundation to use 3) it smells more like chemicals than other foundations 4) I mostly bought it jut to see if the hype was worth it and since it was under $15 and Wet N Wild was disappearing from the shelves of my drugstores (for some reason), I decided to grab it.

    Repurchase? No.

    The Estée Edit Flash Illuminator in Spotlight – This illuminates your skin like MAC Strobe Cream, but it’s not liquidy like the strobe cream, it’s goopy. I never really gave it a good try because I didn’t like the consistency (it reminded me of silly string where it pumped out in a long string). I mixed it once or twice with my foundation which looked pretty good, but it had to be a thicker foundation formula so it wouldn’t get clumps of the cream.

    Repurchase? The Estée Edit line has been discontinued, but if it were still on sale, I wouldn’t repurchase. I prefer the MAC Strobe Cream.

    Love,

    jen

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  • sonia roselli water balm

    July 2018 Faves

    July 30, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    I’ve decided that I will be adding other things to my monthly favourites posts; I’ll add food/drinks, clothing and entertainment!

    Here are this month’s beauty faves:

    img_20180706_061206_696.jpg

    The BCL Spa Sugar Scrub Lavender + Mint and BCL Spa Dead Sea Salt Soak Lavender + Mint are amazing. Both have made my skin feel so soft and the lavender + mint scent is fresh and clean. The sugar scrub is fine and not too coarse on the skin, and it dissolved in a warm bath. The sea salt soak was so relaxing. I don’t know what it is about bath salts, but they always make the bathwater feel silky. I would definitely recommend picking up the spa set if you’re into at-home pampering! I was lucky enough to receive the 4-piece set in a giveaway I won from @DannyCoHair.

    sonia roselli.png

    Sonia Roselli Water Balm (read my review) is amazing and I can’t wait to try more of her products! It’s a multi-use product and it feels so good on the skin. I use it as a moisturizer and primer.

    IMG_20180720_063935_547.jpg

    I’ve really been liking the Tarte Tarteist Creamy Matte Lip Paint in Birthday Suit. Sadly, I need to declutter it because it’s drying out. But I really liked the shade and the feel of it. Sometimes, I would top it with some gloss, which would lighten the shade a bit. This is the shade Birthday Suit, the mini that everyone got from Sephora for their birthday gift last year.

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    I went to Indie Expo Canada and I picked up a holo nail polish called The Deep End by Colors by Llarowe. It’s described as a vivid turquoise based multi chrome that shifts from turquoise to green to blue to purple to pink with added holo sparkle. I really wanted a blue-turquoise mermaid-y nail polish and The Deep End was my fave of the turquoise holo nail polishes at the Indie Expo. I swatched them on a nail wheel (as you can see above); one coat on the left and two coats on the right. I love that it’s holographic, so it doesn’t have chunks in it and therefore the nails feel nice and smooth. I love glitter nail polish, but I don’t like that you can feel the texture of the sparkles until you apply a top coat and even then, sometimes it still feels a bit bumpy.

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    I tried Meghan Markle’s zucchini bolognese recipe. I had seen it on Buzzfeed and it sounded interesting, so I thought I’d give it a try. They call it a ‘bolognese’ because you cook the zucchini for 4 hours (similar to slow-cooking a bolognese sauce). I thought it was pretty good, but I think I would prefer if the zucchini still had some crunch and kept it’s shape. I like the recipe and would use it again, but instead cook the zucchini for a portion of the time. Also, I’m a girl who likes to eat meat, so I would probably have some roast chicken on the side or even add some into the pasta.

    I’ve been enjoying the President’s Choice Blue Menu Pink Grapefruit Sparkling Water, it’s refreshing and it has no calories, no sugar and no sodium. I don’t usually like flavoured water, but this one I don’t mind. It’s great if you want something carbonated, but don’t want to drink pop.

    What were your faves this month?

    Love,

    jen

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  • YouTubers Made Me Buy It

    July 27, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    Have you ever watched a beauty YouTuber review a product and they rave about it so you have to go buy it too? Or read a beauty blogger and saw swatches of the prettiest highlighter that you had to get? Well, there have been quite a lot of products that I’ve purchased over the past two years because I saw a cool video or I watched/read reviews. I’ll let you know if I liked the product and if I’d repurchase.

    Cosrx Acne Pimple Master Patches (read my review) – I love these, but I kind of wish they had different packages for different sizes. Sometimes I have a ton of the smallest size left over until I get a teeny, tiny whitehead.

    Repurchase? Absolutely!!

    Cosrx BHA Blackhead Power Liquid – I bought this last year and don’t know if it was working that well. I had to stop because my skin was reacting to something I was using.

    Repurchase? Probably not.

    Cosrx Salicylic Acid Daily Gentle Cleanser – I quite liked this cleanser and it didn’t dry out my skin too much from the salicylic acid.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    CUCNZN Blackhead Remover Suction Black Peeling Mask – This is kind of messy. If you put too much on, it can drip. It’s very hard to wash off your hands and clothes. The best way is to let it dry and then peel it.

    Repurchase? No, I’d rather try a Biore Pore strip for the face.

    Essence I Love Colour Intensifying Eyeshadow Base – I haven’t put this through testing yet, but I like the formula and I have noticed that it does intensify eyeshadows.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Essence Volume Stylist 18h Lash Extension Mascara –  This mascara is like $5 and it’s great! It does dry out fairly quickly, but it’s not as painful as buying a $30 tube  and having it dry out on you.

    Repurchase? Probably. I just bought two other Essence mascaras to see how they compare.

    Finishing Touch Flawless Facial Hair Remover (read my review) – It removes hair pretty well and I like the light it has attached when you turn it on.

    Repurchase? I’d get the rechargeable one if I get another one.

    Garnier All-in-One Cleansing Micellar Water – Originally, I was like, “why does everyone love this water? Isn’t it just water?” Oh, how wrong I was to think that. I love this stuff!

    Repurchase? Already have!

    Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask (read my review)- I love the smell of this. It smells so fresh and feel so nice on the skin.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Innisfree No Sebum Mineral Powder – This powder is very finely milled and comes with a cute little puff. I’m not a huge fan of the mint smell, but it sets and mattifies my makeup nicely.

    Repurchase? Possibly.

    L’Oreal Voluminous Lash Paradise (read my review) – I compared this to the Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara and I’m sad to say that I’m not a fan of either one.

    Repurchase? No.

    Makeup Eraser The Original Makeup Eraser (read my review) – I saw this in a BuzzFeed video, I believe and had to see if it really worked. I really like it because it’s so soft.

    Repurchase? I bought a dupe that was a 4-pack, so it’ll take me a while, but I’d repurchase when I need to.

    Maybelline FaceStudio Master Chrome Metallic Highlighter (read my review) – This is a beautiful highlighter that gives that wet, metallic look.

    Repurchase? Yes, I really want some of the other shades.

    Maybelline Fit Me Foundation – I’ve tried the Matte + Poreless and the Hydrate + Smooth, I preferred the Hydrate + Smooth because it gave a dewy finish.

    Repurchase? No. No more drugstore foundations for me.

    Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara – I read that the Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, uses this (don’t know if she still does) and I had to try it for myself.

    Repurchase? I bought this, but haven’t tried it yet.

    Maybelline Super Stay Better Skin Concealer + Corrector – This smells like chemicals to me.

    Repurchase? No, I’d rather get the Maybelline Fit Me Concealer.

    Maybelline Super Stay Better Skin Skin-Transforming Foundation – This was the first drugstore foundation I got. I bought the wrong shade and back then, I didn’t know what primer was or that you had to wet the sponge. Knowing what I know now, I could probably get a better match and get a more beautiful application, but no more drugstore foundations for me.

    Repurchase? No. I didn’t love the smell of this.

    Nars Sheer Glow Foundation – If you read my Mid-Year Inventory on Foundations (click here), you’ll know that I’m looking to find high-end foundations with different finishes and coverage. I didn’t love this one and I’d rather get the Lancome Miracle Cushion Foundation as my sheer foundation.

    Repurchase? No.

    NYX Setting Spray (Matte) – I think I’d rather pay a little more for a better quality setting spray. I don’t know if this helped a whole lot, but it made my eyes water.

    Repurchase? No.

    Physician’s Formula Butter Highlighter – Why pay $50 when you can pay a fraction of that for a gorgeous, butter highlighter?

    Repurchase? Absolutely!! I need more shades!!!

    Physician’s Formula Murumuru Butter Butter Bronzer – Blends like a dream and smells so good (which is surprising because I’m not a huge fan of scented things!!)

    Repurchase? Definitely!!

    Pixi Glow Tonic – I got a pack that had a travel-size bottle of this and I will definitely be picking up a bigger size when I’m done my current toner.

    Repurchase? Definitely!! (UPDATE: I think I’m allergic to witch hazel which means I can no longer use this).

    Pixi Hydrating Milky Mist (read my review) – I love Pixi and it smells so good and keeps the face hydrated.

    Repurchase? YES!

    Pixi Peel & Polish (read my review) – I liked this, but it smells like paint to me and I’ve found other brands I like better.

    Repurchase? Probably not.

    Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge (read my review) – This sponge gets huge when it’s damp and I love that it has a flat side. I bought this at Winners (4 pack for $20) which was cheaper than at the drugstore.

    Repurchase? Absolutely! At Winners though.

    Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler – I didn’t know what I was missing until I bought this eyelash curler. Previously, I’ve used a Tweezerman, Revlon and Sephora lash curler, but this one beats all of those.

    Repurchase? When I need to buy a new one, yes!! Although I hear that the Shiseido one is good too and you can buy just the refills for that.

    Wet N Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder – So pretty!! I wish I could get more shades, but Wet N Wild is hard to find in Canada and Rexall only has a selection of Wet N Wild products.

    Repurchase? If I can get my hands on it, yes!!

    A lot of the products on this list, I would repurchase. For most of these, I heard more than a few good reviews, which made me buy them. So, it’s no surprise that I love them too.

    What products have you bought because of a YouTuber’s recommendations?

    Love,

    jen

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  • Beauty Products | Save or Splurge?

    July 23, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    If you’ve been reading my recent posts, you’ll know I’ve been doing inventory of my beauty products. Check out the recent posts below!

    Primers & Foundations | Bronzers | Blushes | Mascaras | Highlighters

    Makeup Goals: A Streamlined Collection

    I’ve decided to compile a list of what beauty products I personally plan to SAVE or SPLURGE on. I’ll also have some products where I’ll be IN BETWEEN– which means I’ll either buy a mix of both high-end and drugstore or I’ll buy products that aren’t super expensive, but not super cheap either.

    Skincare- IN BETWEEN

    I was reading articles on which beauty products to save and splurge on and a few said to save on skincare. I think I will mostly save because there are some great products found at the drugstore. If I want some luxe items, I can always get samples from Sephora and Nordstrom without breaking the bank. I do love the Sonia Roselli Water Balm though (read my review), so I will continue to splurge on that because it’s a multi-use product.

    Primers- SPLURGE

    You need a good base for your makeup and that starts with primer.

    Foundations- SPLURGE

    More expensive foundations just look and smell better than drugstore ones (for the most part).

    Concealers/Colour Correctors- IN BETWEEN

    I think splurge on a good spot concealer I can wear without foundation. There are some good under eye concealers from the drugstore.

    Setting/Finishing Sprays/Powders & Face Mists- IN BETWEEN

    I think a mix of both is okay.

    Makeup Brushes- SPLURGE

    When I first started getting into makeup, I didn’t want to spend a lot on brushes, so I bought some on Amazon. They’re very soft and performed pretty well, but once I bought better quality ones, I could see the difference in my makeup application.

    Makeup Sponges- SAVE

    I think it’s kind of crazy to buy a $20 sponge. I have never bought a beauty blender, so I don’t know if it performs better than a cheaper sponge, but I feel like they’re all quite similar; some may be denser than others, but they all blend the same, don’t they?

    Bronzers- SAVE

    I love the Physician’s Formula one and it blends even better than the high end ones I’ve tried.

    Blushes- IN BETWEEN

    I think I might splurge on a good, matte blush I can use every day because blushes last so long. I love the Milani ones that have shimmer and I really want to try a Physician’s Formula one.

    Highlighters- IN BETWEEN

    Similar to blushes, I might splurge on 1 high end highlighter and then the rest of the collection will be drugstore brands. For the ones I own, the drugstore ones look prettier than my higher end ones (without having to wet them).

    Brows- IN BETWEEN

    I’m kind of torn because I like the NYX Micro Brow pencil, but that pencil lasted so long that maybe it’s worth it to splurge on a brow pencil. I will definitely splurge on brow gel though and get the Benefit Gimme Brow.

    Eyeshadows- SPLURGE

    I’ve noticed a difference in how my eyeshadow looks when using higher end ones especially with the fallout. I think I will invest in a few high end palettes- that have a good selection of neutral mattes and shimmery shades.

    Eyeliners- IN BETWEEN

    Similar to blushes, eyeliner lasts me a long time (I prefer pencil liners), so maybe I should splurge.

    Mascara- SAVE

    As much as I love some of the high-end deluxe samples of mascaras, there are so many drugstore ones I love that are a fraction of the price. Especially when you should dispose of it after using for a few months, it’s not worth it to pay $30 (unless you only own 1 mascara, then maybe it’s worth it, but I like to have several).

    Lipsticks, Liners and Glosses/Tints- IN BETWEEN

    I think I’ll get 1 or 2 for each of the 3 types (lipstick, liner, gloss/tint), but save on the rest.

    Makeup Removers- IN BETWEEN

    I like Simple makeup wipes and Garnier Micellar Water, but I really like Clinique’s Cleansing Balm. So, a mix of both.

    Perfumes- SPLURGE

    When I was in high school, I used to use body sprays from Victoria’s Secret, but no more of that. I have two signature scents at the moment (1 for spring/summer, 1 for fall/winter) and I also have one that’s a bit more spicy that I don’t wear daily.

    Nail Polish- IN BETWEEN

    I think I’ll find a good, wine red and a neutral to splurge on, but buy brands like OPI and Essie for the rest of my collection.

    What products do you splurge on?

    Love,

    jen

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  • makeup collection concealers fooundations primers

    Makeup Goals | A Streamlined Makeup Collection

    July 20, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    When I was doing my mid-year makeup inventory, I realized just how much makeup I had. It’s kind of ridiculous how much makeup I’ve accumulated in the past two years. 2016 was when I got more into makeup and it was only last year that started buying products like highlighter and bronzer. I went through my collection and counted how much I have of each type of product. I didn’t want to do a mid-year makeup inventory on all of them because let’s be honest, it would’ve taken a long time to swatch and write a mini review for each one. Especially when I don’t necessarily love all of the products I own.

    I’ve decided to set some goals for myself in terms of buying makeup going forward. As I was doing my makeup inventory, I decluttered a few products that were past their expiry date and/or I just wasn’t using (basically just taking up space). Here are some goals that I have decided to apply:

    Goal #1 | For primers, foundations, eyeshadows and makeup brushes – only buy high end ones

    • Foundations
      • Find a few favourite ones with different finishes (powder, cushion, sheer coverage, medium coverage)
      • For liquid foundations- I need to have sampled it a few times and put it through a testing period (like I did with the Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation- read my review) before I take the plunge and buy it.
      • Test them out in-store and see how they look in natural lighting and how it wears for the day

    For the other makeup products, I feel like a mix of high end and drugstore are acceptable. There are some amazing drugstore products that I absolutely love and drugstore foundations are great, but I have trouble finding shade matches and there aren’t always testers in store.

    Goal #2 | Cut down on impulse buying

    I’ll admit that 50% of the time, I am an impulse buyer (especially if there’s a sale). Luckily, most of the items I’ve bought on impulse were okay.

    Goal #3 | Read or watch 3 (or more) positive reviews before making a purchase

    I know this isn’t the best way to tell if I will like something because I might not like something that someone else loves, but it will help cut down the impulse buying too. I’ve bought a few duds (that were planned purchases) because YouTube or Instagram made me buy it (*cough* L’Oréal Lash Paradise *cough*). Before buying a product from now on (especially a drugstore item because you can’t return it once it’s been opened), I will check out some reviews online. Usually, I look at Influenster to see what it’s rating out of 5 is and if it’s rated on their list (i.e. Lash Paradise, the non-waterproof one, is rated #1 in mascaras and 4.56/5). Personally, it’s not my #1 mascara, but I don’t hate it.

    Goal #4 | Keep Track of My Makeup Purchases and Set an Annual Makeup Budget

    This sounds kind of scary, but I think I should set one. Last year, I became a VIB Rouge member at Sephora and I have no idea how that happened. The majority was skincare or makeup tools, but there was a fair share of makeup which is surprising because a lot of my makeup is from the drugstore or Winners. For a lot of products (like makeup brushes or foundation), they may seem expensive, but they last a long time. The initial cost may sting, but once you have it, you don’t need to buy more for a while.

    For my blog, I have a monthly budget ($25) to spend on products that I buy for the blog. I prefer to get drugstore products because that’s the most accssible to everyone. I mean, there are tons of beauty lovers who are students- they can’t necessarily afford to get a Dior foundation or a high end palette.

    GOAL #5 | A Streamlined Makeup Collection

    I was going to plan on a Minimalist Makeup Collection, but after writing the numbers down, I wouldn’t consider what I plan to be a Minimalist Collection. So, we’ll go with a streamlined collection of what I have now. I want to find some favourites that I can always rely on so that I can just buy good, high end products (foundations, concealers, etc.) and not worry about buying all these different products to see what works with my skin type.

    I’ve already shared some of my makeup collection in my mid-year makeup inventory. So, I thought I’d share the numbers with you for the rest of my products. Some of my numbers in this list may be different than the mid-year makeup inventory. This is because I was only counting the products that I had opened at the time. Since then, I have opened a few things and gotten a few deluxe samples. Please keep in mind that not all products are full-sized, but I still counted them as ‘1’. So, here are the inventories for each category:

    • Primers: 12 (includes an under eye primer and eyeshadow primers)
    • Foundations: 13
    • Concealers/Colour Correctors: 11
    • Setting/Finishing Powders & Face Mists: 5
    • Illuminating Powders/Creams: 4
    • Bronzers: 4
    • Blushes: 13
    • Highlighters: 14
    • Brow pencils: 3
    • Eyeshadows: 37
    • Eyeliners: 12
    • Mascaras: 6
    • Lipstick: 25
    • Lip Liners: 7
    • Lip Glosses/Tints: 10
    • Makeup Removers: 10

    I know these aren’t makeup, but I’m going to include them too:

    • Perfume: 5
    • Nail Polish: 43

    I was going to total the whole number of products, but some are double-counted i.e. Bobbi Brown palette has blush, highlighter, bronzer and eyeshadow. Give or take, there are 200 items.

    NEW MAKEUP GOALS & FAVOURITES

    I want to streamline my makeup so that I don’t have 200 items in my drawers. I only have so much space in my room if you include makeup, skincare, hair and nail products. The following numbers are what I hope my collection will go down to once I find favourites in each. Under each category, I have included favourites that I think will be included in my Minimalist Collection.

    • Primers: it’s hard to say a number for this one because you want different primers for different uses (mattifying, illuminating, hydrating, eyeshadow, etc.). I’ll say less than 10 for sure!
    • Foundations: 6 at the most (that should be enough for different finishes and coverage)
    • Concealers/Colour Correctors: 5
    • Setting/Finishing Sprays/Powders & Face Mists: 5
    • Illuminating Powders/Creams: 2
    • Bronzers: 2
    • Blushes: 3 (1 with shimmer, 1 peachy, 1 pink)
    • Highlighters: This is hard to decide because there are so many amazing highlighters out there that are different shades and they can double as eyeshadows (6?)
    • Brows: 3 (2 pencils, 1 gel)
    • Eyeshadows: This is hard to decide too because singles count as 1. I will say that I want at least 2-3 good palettes with matte neutral shades and shimmery shades and I like cream shadows and sticks, so maybe 4-5 of those.
    • Eyeliners: 5
    • Mascaras: 3
    • Lipstick: 10
    • Lip Liners: 2
    • Lip Glosses/Tints: 3
    • Makeup Removers: 3
    • Perfumes: 3
    • Nail Polish: 5

    For all of the categories, they’re estimates of what I think I should own and adding all of those up, it’s about 80 products. So, my goal for next year is to cut my collection in half and maybe I can aim for an even smaller collection for 2020.

    Would you ever streamline your makeup collection?

    Love,

    jen

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  • Worth It? | Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation

    July 16, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    When I heard that Dior was coming out with a collection that was geared towards a younger demographic, I was intrigued. I heard it would be a little more affordable and trendier than the classic Dior you think of when you hear the name. I have been looking into getting one of the foundations and I was settled on Diorskin Star Fluid Foundation. But, when I heard that the new Backstage Collection was going to be releasing 40 foundation shades (thank you, Rihanna- I know a lot of other brands had a good shade selection before, but it wasn’t until Fenty Beauty released 40 that other brands started to realize, “hey, we should be more inclusive too”). It’s especially hard to find your shade with a high end brand like Dior. The Diorskin Star Foundation barely has 20 shades, so it’s nice to see that the Backstage Face & Body Foundation has 40 shades that include different undertones.

    20180709_170647

    The Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation comes in a translucent plastic bottle (so you can see how much product is left) that has a matte feel and it has a squeeze bottle spout. It’s not like the bottle is squishy, but you can squeeze it so more foundation comes out. The plastic spout looks like it can be removed easily, so you can take off the top and use a spatula to get the last drop when you’re almost done. The silver cap twists off and when you put the cap on, it kind of locks in place so you know it’s twisted on properly. The foundation is quite fluid and when I first opened the bottle, the liquid spurted out a bit.

    The foundation has a matte finish with medium-buildable coverage. It’s lightly scented like the other Dior foundations- I actually like it. It’s a refreshing scent that you can’t smell once you put it on your face. With the Diorskin Star Foundation, my shade is 020, so I decided to wing it and order 2N for this foundation. I think it’s a pretty good match for blindly choosing one. I was worried at first because I watched a few reviews and they said it oxidized, so I thought I should’ve chose a lighter one.

    TITLES JC(2)

    A foundation for the face and body in 40 shades with a natural, matte finish and medium, buildable coverage that’s waterproof and sweat-resistant.

    Dior Backstage Face and Body Foundation is the Dior makeup artists’ secret weapon to create a flawless, runway-ready complexion for both the face and body. This waterproof formula fuses with skin, resisting extreme conditions like workout sessions, water, and even high temperatures and humid environments. It can also be used to camouflage minor imperfections on the neck, shoulders, legs, or anywhere else.

    Sweatproof?

    I’ve been wearing it in this Toronto weather (pretty hot) and it’s hard to tell if it’s sweat or the oils on my t-zone, but it has been breaking up in the t-zone area.

    Waterproof?

    It’s waterproof enough to stay put after being put underwater. I splashed some water on my face and it didn’t come off. Also, the foundation on my hand was still on after running it under water and rubbing it lightly. So, if you were to get caught in the rain, you’d be safe, but I was able to remove the foundation with water and my makeup eraser (read my review).

    20180709_172032

    Wear Test

    I tried it with a beauty sponge on one side of my face and a brush on the other- both applied beautifully. I think I would use a brush to apply since I don’t want my sponge absorbing all of the product. Also, since it doesn’t have a pump and it’s more liquid than other foundations, I can’t tell how much I’m actually using.

    Test #1

    Primer used: Sonia Roselli Water Balm (read my review)

    With the Sonia Roselli Water Balm, it looked flawless! Of course, I needed to use concealer to cover up dark spots, but it looked like my skin. To test its longevity, I didn’t powder my t-zone and by the 2nd hour, it was breaking up on and around my nose and chin. This was on a hot day and after doing a little arm workout (where I didn’t quite work up a sweat). By the 4th hour, it was basically gone from under my nose. I don’t know if it was from the heat or if I didn’t use as much as I thought, but when I removed it with a makeup wipe, there wasn’t as much foundation on the wipe as I usually do.

    Test #2

    Primer used: Make Up For Ever Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primer (Smoothing), Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil

    Powder used: Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder

    I tried building up the coverage with two layers of foundation and set it with powder. By the second hour, it looked horrible- it was collecting around my nose. The makeup felt heavy and looked cakey.

    Test #3

    Primer used: Make Up For Ever Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primer (Hydrating)

    Powder used: Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder

    By the 3rd hour, the foundation was settling into fine lines between my brows (making it look like I had wrinkles) and wore off under my nose. It didn’t look terrible, but it would require a touch up.

    Test #4

    Primer used: Sonia Roselli Water Balm

    Sunscreen used: Vichy Idéal Soleil Anti-Shine Dry Touch Lotion SPF60 (read my review)

    Powder used: Innisfree No-Sebum Mineral Powder

    Less than 2 hours after applying, it looked powdery and was collecting around the nose. I think the sunscreen made the foundation apply on top of my skin, creating a layer on top of my skin instead of sinking into the skin.

    Test #5

    Primer used: Stellar Brilliant Primer

    This was the worst combo. Since the primer doesn’t hydrate, it accentuated my dry spots.

    Test #6

    Primers used: Smashbox Photo Finish Reduce Redness Primer, Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil (on t-zone)

    Setting Spray: NYX Makeup Setting Spray (Matte)

    Powder: Bare Minerals barePRO Performance Wear Pressed Powder Foundation in Cashmere 06

    I mixed the Dior foundation with my Lancôme Skin Feels Good Skin Nourishing Foundation in 01N Nude Vanilla (read my review). It looked absolutely flawless!! After wearing it for six hours when I was out in the heat, you could tell it broke up a bit on my chin, but around my nose, it still looked pretty good.

    Worth It?

    This foundation is worth it if you’re looking for a natural matte finish. This foundation is beautiful, but I don’t think it will become a staple in my foundation lineup. Lately, I’ve been into radiant, natural finishes to give that glow from within look and since this one has a matte finish, it’s not what I’m looking for in a foundation.

    The winning combination for me was Test #6.

    • Sonia Roselli Water Balm as a moisturizer and primer
    • Using a smoothing primer to minimize the appearance of pores on my cheeks and forehead
    • Smashbox Primer Oil on and around my nose
    • Mixing the Dior Foundation with the Lancome Skin Feels Good Skin Nourishing Foundation
    • To set, I dabbed some Bare Minerals powder on my t-zone to get rid of the shine and used my NYX setting spray.

    RATING: 4/5

    I have to dock a point for the packaging- no pump and it’s in a plastic bottle. I know that the plastic packaging is so that it’s more portable and won’t break if you throw into your bag, but if I’m paying more than $40, I expect a pump and a glass bottle. I just prefer pumps because then I know how much I’m using. It’s hard to tell if I’m squeezing out the same amount each time.

    Have you tried products from the Dior Backstage collection?

    Love,

    jen

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  • sonia roselli skin prep water balm

    Review | Sonia Roselli Water Balm

    July 13, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    I was asked to review the Sonia Roselli Water Balm by the hair stylist & makeup artist who did my sister’s and my makeup (for my sister’s Toronto Wedding Reception). Vicki from vlmakeup (check out her website and Instagram) wanted to know how the product worked on my skin type. I have acne prone skin that’s normal on my cheeks and forehead, but dry on and around my nose and chin (probably because of acne clearing products) and every now and then, I get dry patches around the mouth and under eye area. Even though my skin is dry, I get an oily t-zone and need to powder to prevent foundation from breaking up in that area.

    I had never heard of the brand before, so I looked into it and read some reviews before I took the plunge and purchased the product. Sonia Roselli has been a makeup artist for over 20 years. In 2015, she decided to start her own line of products. The brand sells mostly skincare products, but they also sell makeup brushes and individual lashes. Since I bought the Water Balm, they’re coming out with more products that you can pre-order. After trying this product out, I am definitely interested in trying other products.

    The question is, is this product worth it? ABSOLUTELY! Read on to see what I have to say about the Water Balm!

    Japanese “Water Bead” technology allows you to use as a toner, serum, day cream, night cream, eye cream and makeup primer all in one. Water Balm is an innovative skin care product that keeps your face hydrated for hours.

    It plumps fine lines and wrinkles, allowing your makeup to look fresh, radiant and youthful.

    Water Balm is not vegan- it contains a small amount of silk, egg, soy and citrus.

    Japanese Spring Water, Japanese Organic Rice, Silk, Soya Milk, Green Tea, Japanese Plum, Soybean

    Formulated without:
    Chemical color, fragrance, parabens and alcohol

    Made in Japan

    As a primer: Place a nickel size amount in the palm of your fingers. Tap together and lightly tap all over the face, then rub in evenly. Tapping breaks open the Water Beads and all the goodness is on your face. Let sit for 5-10 minutes before applying makeup. Apply makeup as usual.

    As a moisturizer: Apply Water Balm as your final step.

    I think it’s so cool because when you apply this, it feels like you’re applying silky water to your face. You can see the water beads once you’ve tapped it onto your skin. Depending on the weather, it can feel a bit tack after, but it mostly dries down after a few minutes. I’m not sure how well this would perform on someone with oily skin since mine tends to be dry. It keeps my face hydrated for hours after applying it. I don’t know about using this as an eye cream; yes, it’s hydrating, but it won’t help get rid of dark circles or puffiness, so maybe keep your eye cream in rotation.

    I tested this with the Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation and it looked absolutely flawless (read my review)!

    RATING: 5/5

    This product gets top marks in my books! It’s not too expensive considering it’s multi-purpose. Right now, I have a few moisturizers and serums to go through, but once I’ve finished those, I think I will only be purchasing this product for moisturizer. I will keep it on rotation in my primers, but I will continue to buy other primers because other brands like Make Up For ever, Smashbox, etc. have primers that cater to different things- redness correcting, smoothing, etc. The Water Balm will be my new hydrating primer though. I have the MUFE Step 1 Skin Equalizer Primer- Hydrating, so once it’s finished, I won’t repurchase that particular one. I wrote a series of posts on my makeup inventory, if you want to see what primers I like, check out the post on primers and foundations (click here).

    Have you heard of Sonia Roselli products? 

    Love,

    jen

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  • 2018 Mid-Year Makeup Inventory | Highlighters

    July 11, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    Continuing my makeup inventory, today’s post is on highlighters! Check out my other mid-year makeup roundup!

    Primers & Foundations | Bronzers | Blushes | Mascaras | Highlighters

    Current inventory:

    • 12 powder highlighters
    • 1 liquid strobe highlighter from Milk Makeup

    You can never have too many highlighters, especially when you can get different shades and you can use highlighter as eyeshadow too. I won’t be putting a makeup buying ban on highlighters.

    Physician’s Formula Butter Highlighter in Pink

    I love this, it’s creamy and gorgeous. I will definitely be picking up other shades of this highlighter.

    Maybelline Facestudio Master Chrome Metallic Highlighter in 100 Molten Gold

    This is a fave of mine. I would definitely pick up another shade since this is a bit too dark for my skintone.

    Wet N Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder in Precious Petals

    This is beautiful. I wish I could get other shades of this highlighter, but that’s all that was left in stock at Rexall.

    Urban Decay Afterglow 8-Hour Powder Highlighter in Sin

    I got this as a rewards bonus from Sephora. It’s really pretty and the nicest out of the higher end ones that I have. I don’t think I would pick up the full-size because there are so many pretty drugstore highlighters.

    Clionadh Cosmetics Marble Highlighter in Mother of Pearl (read my review)

    I picked this up at Indie Expo Canada. It’s a gorgeous marble highlighter. It’s more of a fun highlighter since it has different colours- it looks purple, but when you move it in the light, it changes.

    Stila All Over Shimmer Powder

    I picked this up at Winners. I don’t think I’d pay full price for it. The darker shade in the duo is beautiful, but the lighter one is a bit powdery. When mixed together though, they make a beautiful rosy gold shade.

    Essence Light Up Your Face Luminizer Palette (read my review)

    I really want to try the Pure Nude Highlighter by Essence which I plan to pick up at some point. One of the shades in this palette is kind of chunky which I don’t love.

    MAC X Star Trek Trip the Light Fantastic Powder in Luna Luster

    When I first swatched this, I was surprised that it wasn’t buttery. It’s actually better to use a fan brush with this one so that it can disperse the shimmer nicely. If you used your finger, you’d get a splotch of shimmer in one spot of your face. This highlighter looks better when wet.

    H&M Spotlight Glow Powder in Sumptuous Peach (read my review)

    The pan of this is huge and it’s a beautiful highlighter for a brand that’s known for clothing.

    Inglot x Jennifer Lopez Livin’ the Highlight Illuminator in J201 Radiant (read my review)

    I prefer to use this as a body highlighter since it’s a loose highlight.

    Bobbi Brown Illuminating Bronzing Powder in Halo

    This is kind of chunky which was surprising since it’s Bobbi Brown. After using the blush, bronzer and highlighter, I don’t think I would pick up a Bobbi Brown product from any of those categories. If I were to get a Bobbi Brown product, it’d be an eyeshadow palette or skincare-related products like primer and foundation.

    Smashbox Blush Soft Lights Duo in Passion/Shimmer

    This highlighter is pretty, but it’s a bit powdery, if you wet your brush, it looks better. The duo would be great for travel since it has a blush and a highlighter.

    Physician’s Formula Pink, Smashbox Shimmer, Stila Shimmer (light shade, dark shade, both shades mixed), Essence Light Up Your Face Palette (3 shades), Wet N Wild Precious Petals
    Bobbi Brown Halo, H&M Sumptuous Peach, Clionadh Mother of Pearl, Urban Decay Sin, Mac X Star Trek Luna Luster, Maybelline Molten Gold, Inglot x J Lo Radiant

    The prettiest highlighters were actually the drugstore ones (in my opinion). I prefer the wet look instead of chunky, shimmery highlighters. My favourites are the Maybelline Master Chrome, Wet N Wild MegaGlo and Physician’s Formula Butter Highlighter.

    I realized that I forgot to include the Milk Makeup Liquid Strobe Highlighter in the swatches. If you want to see the swatch, you can read my review on it.

    Love,

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  • 2018 Mid-Year Makeup Inventory | Blushes

    July 9, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    Continuing my makeup inventory, today’s post is on blushes! Check out my other mid-year makeup roundup!

    Primers & Foundations | Bronzers | Blushes | Mascaras | Highlighters

    Current blush inventory:

    • 11 powder blushes + 1 Smashbox palette I haven’t touched (includes 2 blushes)
    • 1 cheek & lip stain

    I think it’s safe to say that I won’t be needing blush any time soon. I won’t be purchasing any new blushes until I finish at least 5. I have a combo of matte and shimmery shades. Shimmery shades can be nice for the daytime during the summer, but I feel like they’re more for the night time. I think next time I buy blushes, I will get matte shades because you can use highlighter to add shimmer.

    Bobbi Brown Blush in French Pink & Nectar

    French Pink is the hot pink shade on the left. Both are beautiful shades.- great for summer time!

    Burt’s Bees Blush in 1210 Shy Pink

    I received this from Topbox Circle along with a bunch of other Burt’s Bees products and I’m so glad I did! I love this blush and it’s from the drugstore too!

    Bella Pierre Mineral Blush in MB002 Autumn Glow

    This was the first blush I bought that wasn’t from the drugstore…in fact, it may be time to declutter/dispose of it (I bought it when I was in university :/). It’s really pretty, but since it is more of a brown shade, I use it in the Fall/Winter. I don’t really like that it’s a loose powder, it takes up so much more space and it’s more messy than a regular, pressed blush.

    Miniso Flawless Baked Blusher in 02 Rosy Pink in 02 Rosy Pink

    You can’t get any better than this Miniso blush. It was $2.99 and it’s such a beautiful, shimmery pink.

    Milani Baked Blush in 01 Dolce Pink

    This is so pretty, it’s a gorgeous, shimmery pink.

    Estée Lauder Pure Color Envy Sculpting Blush in 03 Pink Ingenue

    Since this is in a ‘kit/palette,’ I tend to forget about it. It’s a beautiful pink though and I need to use it more often.

    The Estée Edit The Barest Blush in 03 Purr Pink

    This is a very bright pink and I need to use a very light hand with this. I few times I put way too much on and looked like a clown. I’ve had to dab my face with my sponge to add some of the residual foundation to dial it down.

    Smashbox Blush Soft Lights Duo in Passion/Shimmer

    I like that this is a 2-in-1 blush and highlighter. 2-in-1 is great for travelling and this is a very nice mauvy pink.

    Smashbox L.A. Lights Palette in Culver City Coral

    I haven’t touched this palette (I didn’t swatch it below), but I’m excited to use it. Once I finish a few blushes, I will take it out.

    Tarte Amazonian Clay 12-Hour Blush in Paaarty & Concept

    I love the Tarte blushes. This one that came in the Sephora birthday present is so pretty for a naturally blushed look. I haven’t used the shade Concept yet.

    Bella Pierre Cheek and Lip Stain in Coral

    I haven’t used this much because I don’t know if I love cream blushes that much. Sometimes cream products just make my face feel oily. Maybe I’ll use it as a lip stain and sheer it out with vaseline.

    From L-R: Milani Dolce Pink (shimmery), Miniso Rosy Pink (shimmery), Tarte Paaarty, Tarte Concept, Burt’s Bees Shy Pink, Bella Pierre Autumn Glow (shimmery), Bobbi Brown French Pink, Bobbi Brown Nectar, Smashbox Passion, Estee Lauder Pink Ingenue (shimmery), Estee Edit Purr Pink, Bella Pierre Coral

    I think my favourites are Tarte, Burt’s Bees, Miniso and Milani. Surprisingly, the higher end ones swatched a bit patchy.

    I really want to buy a NARS and a Physician’s Formula blush. If you read my post on Beauty Recommendations from Instagrammers, I was recommended a few different blushes to try.

    What are your fave blushes?

    Love,

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  • 2018 Mid-Year Makeup Inventory | Mascaras

    July 6, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    Since it’s July, I’ve decided to do a mid-year makeup inventory on some of my makeup. I’ve seen a few people do it on Instagram, and thought I should do that too and decide how many I want to finish of each type of product before I can purchase more.

    Today’s post is on my mascaras. I think I’ve done pretty well. I haven’t bought a new one in a while, I obtained a few more from my friend who got them in a bonus and already had a full-size.

    If you want to see the other makeup inventory posts I’ve written, click the following links:

    Primers & Foundations | Bronzers | Blushes | Mascaras | Highlighters

    Current mascara inventory:

    • started with 10; 5 (after decluttering some of the ones pictured)

    Since taking this picture, I’ve finished the Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara and obtained the Burt’s Bees Nourishing Lengthening Mascara (I also must’ve forgotten one in my collection when I took this picture- an Estée Lauder one). After this post, I’m going to be retiring the 3-step fiber mascara (read my review), L’Oréal Lash Paradise and the Estée Lauder one because I’ve had them for a while. I’m not going to do a makeup buying ban for mascara. After retiring 3, I’ll have 5 and next month, it’s probably going to be time to retire more.

    Estée Lauder Sumptuous Knockout Defining Lift and Fan Mascara in Black

    I did not like the brush on this mascara. I tried using the mascara with another brush and I liked it. For me, it wouldn’t be worth buying a mascara (if I purchased high-end ones) if I didn’t like the brush though.

    L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara in Black

    I may be one of the few that doesn’t like either Better Than Sex or Lash Paradise. I’ve compared both mascaras (read my review). I just don’t like the brushes and they both dry out so quickly.

    L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Original Mascara in Blackest Black

    I think this was one of the first mascaras I tried in high school. It’s still a fave of mine.

    Bobbi Brown Smokey Eye Mascara in Black

    I really like this one, it looks natural and I love the brush.

    Burt’s Bees Nourishing Lengthening Mascara in Classic Black

    This one kind of smells (in a different way than other mascara), but once it’s on the lashes, it’s fine. I like the brush and it comes off easily with water.

    Urban Decay Perversion Mascara in Black

    I like this one too, it makes my lashes look darker and not clumpy at all!

    Urban Decay Troublemaker Mascara in Black

    I like this mascara, but since it’s a deluxe sample size, the wand is so tiny and it’s hard to use it.

    I love most of these mascaras, but I’ve said it many times, I don’t like buying mascaras over $15. There are so many amazing drugstore ones, why buy high end ones? Especially when you should throw them out after a few months. Mascara gets bacteria very easily and you don’t want to get an eye infection. My fave mascaras are by L’Oréal and Maybelline. I’ve only tried a few other drugstore ones because I received them from Influenster for review purposes. I’ve received the Revlon Mega Multiplier (read my review) and CoverGirl Total Tease Mascara (read my review).

    What are your fave mascaras?

    Love,

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