First Impressions with Aromatherapy Associates

January 17, 2020

Hi Everyone!

I received the Aromatherapy Associates De-Stress Muscle Gel from Calissa.com

This best-selling body gel contains Rosemary, Black Pepper, Lavender and Ginger essential oils. After a long day at work, or an intense workout, give your aching muscles the love they need. De-Stress Body Gel instantly cools aches and pains, then warms muscles over time leaving them feeling soothed.

Apply generously and massage directly over muscles and joints before and after physical activity. Use up to twice daily. Can be used in flight to maintain circulation in ankles and legs. For optimum results follow with De-Stress Body Oil to give your body some extra TLC. TOP TIP: If you suffer with tension headaches, apply muscle gel to the back of your neck whilst at work, or on the go.

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Water, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Water, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavendar) Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Melaleuca Leucadendron Cajaputi (Cajput) Oil, Parfum**, Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) Leaf Oil, Juniperus Communis (Juniper) Fruit Oil, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil, Pinus Sylvestris (Pine) Leaf Oil, Piper Nigrum (Black Pepper) Seed Oil, Carbomer, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide, Citral*, Coumarin*, Geraniol*, Limonene*, Linalool*.

*Natural Essential Oil Contents **Natural Plant Extracts

I’ve used it a few times now and it’s really good. Usually I use something like Voltaren on my sore muscles. My arm was sore and throbbing one day, so I applied it and it has this cool feeling. At some point in the next couple hours the throbbing stopped. It still stinks like any muscle gel (I smell the rosemary and black pepper the most I think), but it works!! Luckily, the scent doesn’t linger. You can still smell it if you sniff your arm or wherever you applied it, but you can’t smell it from a distance. I probably wouldn’t use it on a flight. I wouldn’t want to be THAT person on the airplane.

RATING: 4/5

It’s great, but it is on the more expensive side.

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 get a discount!)

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

Love,

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

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52/48 | Buying Makeup & Skincare Backups

January 14, 2020
Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m writing about backups. Do you buy backups of your makeup and skincare products or do you buy them as you need them?

Before I get started, I’m only talking about makeup and skincare (doesn’t include makeup tools). Only things that have an expiration date.

I consider a ‘backup’ as buying multiples of the same exact item in the same shade at once – 1 to use now, others to keep in your drawer for when you run out.

I don’t consider a ‘backup’ as:
- a similar item in the same category – having concealers from different brands. I have 5 concealers, but they all have different formulas and/or purposes (under eye, spot conceal)
- having another of the same item in a different shade – maybe you need two shades to match your skin tone
- having another for your makeup bag/purse – You have a pressed powder for your vanity and an identical one for your purse
- buying a new one when you’re almost finished – I consider this a ‘replacement’
Backup vs. Replacement

Backup – I have 1 NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer in use and 2 others in the same shade in my makeup drawer for when I run out

Replacement – I’m almost finished my NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer, I will buy another Radiant Creamy Concealer OR I will buy a different concealer to replace it (i.e. Too Faced Born This Way)

I asked my followers on Instagram if they buy backups and the results were interesting. Last year, I had asked the same question and 60% said they didn’t buy backups, but the other day when I gave my definition, the majority DO buy backups.

52% said they DO buy backups

I am in the 48% minority and I DON’T usually buy backups. There were a few occasions where I did buy a backup of something:
- Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser from Costco – my mom bought so many of these because she once bought a value-size Garnier Micellar Water from Costco and then never saw it again. Just in case it happened again to the Cetaphil cleanser, she bought multiples. We both use it and sometimes I use it for my body, so we go through them fairly quickly
- 2-pack of Bioderma Micellar Water – it was cheaper to buy the 2-pack
- Last year, there was a 50% off sale on Smashbox.ca for the Primer Water, so I ordered 3 bottles because I got an additional 15% off my first order (a total of 65% off + Rakuten cashback!)
- L’Oréal Colour Riche Collection Exclusive Nude Lip Color in 370 J Lo’s Nude
- Tula, a skincare brand that I really liked, decided to stop selling to Canada. I didn’t know this until it was too late. I had bought 2 backups of their Acne gel because it was sold out so often. I’m sad I didn’t get a chance to replace my serum.
Check out my Hits & Misses review on Tula products (all purchased by me)

Some people are tempted to buy multiples of a Limited Edition item. When it first came out, I really loved the L’Oréal lipstick shade. I bought another because I thought it was limited edition. After being on the shelves for a year, I realized it was not. I have since finished both tubes and while I loved the shade, I don’t love the scent of L’Oréal lipsticks. I’ve since found another item that I love more – Lancôme L’Absolu Lacquer Lip Gloss (read my review).

I only buy replacements when 1) I know that I will be finishing the item soon or 2) there is a sale and I know I will finish before the next sale comes around. I rarely buy the exact item again, for example, I was nearly finished my Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil when the Sephora VIB Sale came around last year. So, I bought the Kevyn Aucoin The Precision Brow Pencil to replace it. I loved the Benefit brow pencil, but I want to try different pencils to see if there’s one I love more.

The reason I usually don’t buy backups:
- It’s easy to forget what you have when it’s tucked away in a drawer
- I’m worried they will expire before I get around to it
- I want to try different products
- They take up space in your drawers/shelves
- I don’t love anything so much that I need to have 2 or more in my collection
I think that buying backups traps you because you might want to try a new product that just launched, but you’ve got 3 backups of that one product.

Do you buy backups?

Love,

Note: The majority of the items pictured are empties. The duplicates and triplicates were purchased as replacements.
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Makeup Inventory | Jan 2020

January 8, 2020

Hi Everyone!

I thought I would do an update on my makeup collection. I’ve gotten my inventory down to a reasonable number. I think it’s reasonable enough that I don’t feel the need to participate in a Project Pan or 20 in 2020 challenge. I’ve also decided not to do a Low/No Buy this year because I think I can control myself now. I don’t really get swept up in new makeup releases. I might get samples at Sephora, but I don’t feel the need to buy the newest product until I’ve read or watched reviews.

In 2017 and 2018, I bought a bunch of products from Winners and the Mac Warehouse Sale. I didn’t even do full reviews on most of the items because they were old or discontinued. I did do quick reviews on some makeup items in my mid-year makeup inventory:

Primers & Foundations | Bronzers | Blushes | Mascaras | Highlighters

Makeup inventory posts from previous years:

Dec 2018 | June 2019

	July 2018	Dec 2018	June 2019	Jan 2020
Primers	12	11	7	4
Foundations	13	7	6	6
Concealers	11	5	6	5
Setting Sprays/Powders	11	11	5	7
Contour	0	3	1	1
Bronzers	6	3	3	1
Blushes	14	5	5	2
Highlighters	13	9	4	5
Brows	3	3	6	3
Eyeshadows	129	60	23	17
Eyeliners	12	9	2	3
Mascara	10	2	3	2
Lipstick	28	7	7	4
Lip Liners	7	5	4	0
Lip Glosses/Tints/Balms	10	4	2	1
Makeup Removers	13	1	4	2
Perfumes	5	4	5	3
Nail Polishes	43	19	7	0
Total Items	340	168	100	66

My plan is to get my collection down to 50 items by the end of the year. It’s shocking to think that I once had 340 makeup items (this number includes individual eyeshadows). It’s even more alarming to think that I paid for most of those items too. While I have been lucky enough to be sent products over the years, I’m sent more skincare products than makeup. Most of those items were impulse purchases because they were on sale or a good deal.

What are your makeup plans for 2020?

Love,

December 2019 Product Empties

December 31, 2019

Hi Everyone!

Here are my last empties of the DECADE!

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil – I started using this as a facial oil because I kept forgetting about using it to prime my face. It also started to smell funny and I had to declutter it.

Repurchase? Probably not.

Make Up For Ever Step 1 Equalizing Primer (Nourishing) – This was a nice primer that smells good, but it isn’t my favourite hydrating primer. I prefer the Smashbox Primerizer.

Repurchase? Probably not.

Garnier SkinActive All-in-1 Cleansing Water – I don’t use waterproof makeup, so the pink micellar water works well for me.

Repurchase? Absolutely.

Banila Co. Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm – This was a nice cleansing balm that removed my makeup well. I don’t use waterproof makeup, so I can’t say if it’s good for that. I didn’t love how scented it was though. I’d rather pay a bit more for an unscented one even though it’s only on my face for a short time.

Repurchase? Probably not.

COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches (read my review) – These were the first acne patches I tried. They will always have a special place in my heart because of that, but I’ve started to prefer the Rael patches (read my comparison post).

Repurchase? I would definitely still buy them, but as long as I can get the Rael ones, I think I’d prefer those.

L:A Bruket Hand & Body Wash in Lemongrass* – I didn’t mind the hand/body wash itself, but I’m not the biggest fan of lemongrass scent. I would prefer one of their other scents.

Repurchase? Probably not.

Volition Beauty Strawberry-C Brightening Serum* (read my review) – Loved this serum! That’s all I have to say.

Repurchase? YES!

Good Molecules Ultra Hydrating Facial Oil* – I enjoyed this facial oil. For extra hydration, I would mix it with my Volition serum.

Repurchase? Yes.

Love,

Products marked with (*) were gifted to me.

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Nov/Dec 2019 Faves

December 26, 2019

Hi Everyone!

I haven’t tried many new products in the past two months, so I don’t have many favourites for you this time.

Volition Beauty Strawberry-C Brightening Serum* (read my review) – I really enjoyed this serum and will definitely be repurchasing in the future.

Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Eye Crème – This is a great eye cream. I don’t know if it brightened my under eyes that much, but I haven’t had any reactions to it. A lot of eye creams have caused milia or some type of reaction because they’re too thick for me. At first I didn’t love the smell of this, but I eventually got used to it. It keeps my under eyes feeling smooth and moisturized.

Good Molecules Ultra-Hydrating Facial Oil* – I really enjoyed this facial oil. Once it started to get colder, I would mix this with the Volition Serum to add some more hydration to my face.

What were your faves this month?

Love,

Products marked with (*) were sent to me.

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Review | Two Goats Apothecary 100% All-Natural Dry Shampoo

December 20, 2019

Hi Everyone!

I was sent some dry shampoo from a brand called Two Goats Apothecary. They sell 100% all-natural, vegan dry shampoo. They offer four different shades of dry shampoo (two for lighter hair and two for darker hair) and they all have different scents depending on what ingredients are used. Since I have black hair, I chose Ravn.

Ingredients: corn starch, baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), activated bamboo charcoal powder, organic coffee, fir needle (abies sibirica) and peppermint (mentha piperita) essential oil

Be careful when using a tinted dry shampoo because it can transfer. I only smell the coffee and maybe hints of peppermint at times. The scent doesn’t linger after you’ve put it on. The shampoo comes in a tin and you can buy a brush for applying it. I go to the bathroom so that if I spill any, it’s not all over my rug in my bedroom. The brush does pick up quite a bit, so I tap off the excess into the lid. I would love if it came with a net/sieve like translucent setting powders. It would be a little less messy. If you don’t want to purchase the brush, they said you could use your hands. If you have an extra makeup brush lying around, you can use one of those. Their brush is similar to a flat kabuki brush. I wouldn’t use one that’s too dense.

You can definitely see that it mattifies any oily-looking hair. I’ve asked my mom to do a smell test to see if it makes my hair smell nice. She doesn’t really smell anything other than hair and oils. I’m not sure if I haven’t put enough or if that’s just how it is. Aerosol dry shampoos I’ve tried have made my hair smell really nice. I think this is a really interesting product, and I love that it doesn’t come in an aerosol can. When I wash my hair after I’ve used the dry shampoo, it smells like coffee. Since it’s a tinted dry shampoo, the water can turn gray.

RATING: 3/5

Love,

*This product was gifted to me by Two Goats Apothecary.

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First Impressions with Skimono

December 18, 2019
Hi Everyone!

I tried out the Skimono glove mask from the Look Fantastic US November 2019 Hygge box and really enjoyed it!
A revitalising serum enriched with shea butter, Aloe Vera & hyaluronic acid in an innovative glove mask.
- Eradicates dryness
- Restores softness
- Refines skin texture
- Brightens and evens skin tone
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Urea, Glyceryl Stearate, Butylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol, Cetearyl Alcohol, PEG-100 Stearate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Propanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Illicium Verum (Anise) Fruit Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Dimethicone, Carbomer, Arginine, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Leontopodium Alpinum Extract, Fragrance (Parfum), Allantoin, Adenosine, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hyaluronate, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate.
It was my first time trying a glove mask. My fingers were really dry after taking off my nail polish, so I thought I’d try it out to see how well it worked. They’re plastic gloves with an inner lining (that’s like a face sheet mask) soaked in serum. The most saturated parts of the glove were probably the fingers. After 20 minutes, it does kind of feel like when you’re in a bath/swimming pool too long. Any longer than 30 minutes, and my fingers would definitely feel pruny/wrinkly. Since there was an inner lining, the outer part of the glove wasn’t wet at all and I was able use my phone with the gloves on (bonus!). It definitely made my hands feel softer and not as dry. It’s been a few days and my hands still feel pretty soft and smooth. It would definitely be nice to put these glove masks on while doing a face mask, then you can just sit back and relax. I would definitely consider buying this one. It’s definitely on the pricey side, but they have a 4 pack available where you can get 4 for the price of 3.

RATING: 5/5

On the Skimono website, they have other sheet masks for your face and they also sell foot masks. I’ve only tried a peeling foot mask, but their foot mask sounds like it would be very nice!

Have you tried hand/foot masks?

Love,

*The Look Fantastic US box was gifted to me, but all opinions are my own.
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Reviewing My 2019 Beauty Expenses

December 11, 2019

Hi Everyone!

As the new year approaches, I thought I would review my 2019 beauty expenses since I don’t plan to make any beauty purchases in the month of December.

Check out my previous beauty expenses posts:

2017 | 2018

My 2019 Beauty Budget

Category	Estimate	Actual
Skincare	$600	$700
Primers	120	100
Foundation/Powders/ Sprays	120	225
Concealers	100	150
Eyeliners	60	20
Brows	100	100
Mascara	100	50
Lips	0	90
Blush	0	40
Highlighter	0	75
Bronzer	0	50
Miscellaneous	600	350
TOTAL	$1800	1950

For my estimated costs for 2019, I didn’t include a section for lip products, blushes, bronzers, highlighters, eyeshadows, nail polish or hair because I already had a lot of things that I wanted to finish before buying new products in those categories. I ended up buying products in the blush/bronzer/lip/highlighter categories though…oops! The miscellaneous section includes hair products, makeup tools, makeup removers, etc.

As you can see, I went $150 over my proposed budget of $1800. I’m going to do my best to get the skincare category from $700 to $500.

My 6 most expensive beauty purchases of 2019:

Tula Illuminating Face Serum – $83.30 (15% off, bought on TULA Canada before they got rid of the Canadian website)
Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel – $73.95 (15% off, bought during Sephora VIB Sale)
Giorgio Armani Fluid Sheer – $58.65 (15% off on Armani-Beauty.ca)
Clé de Peau Concealer – $55 (more than 40% off, bought at Shiseido Warehouse Sale)
Kiehls Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado – $51 (20% off sale at Kiehls.ca)
Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder – $49.30 (15% off, bought during Sephora VIB Sale)

Most of my purchases were from Sephora, the drugstore or a brand’s website (e.g. Kiehls.ca, Giorgio Armani Beauty, Smashbox). I only purchased a few items from Winners this year. I’ve tried to cut down on the makeup purchases from Winners because they’re usually discontinued items that I can’t review on Instagram or my blog.

Did you have a beauty budget this year? Did you stay under budget or go over like I did?

Love,

Review | Volition Beauty Strawberry-C Brightening Serum

December 4, 2019

Hi Everyone!

Today I’m reviewing the Volition Beauty Strawberry-C Brightening Serum. I received this product complimentary, but all opinions are my own.

A brightening serum powered by strawberry-derived vitamin C for noticeable radiance, hydration, and even-toned skin.

Strawberries contain 14% more Vitamin C than an orange and they’re packed with antioxidants! Strawberry seed extract brightens skin and helps even skin tone, and vitamin C helps boost your skin’s collagen production for plumper, firmer skin.

Ingredients: Water, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Water, Glycerin, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Fragaria Ananassa (Strawberry) Seed Extract, Fragaria Vesca (Strawberry) Fruit Extract, Sea Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract, Propanediol, Bentonite, Picea Abies Extract, Carbomer, Aminomethyl Propanol, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Phytate, Leuconostoc Ferment Filtrate, Citric Acid, Iron Oxides (CI 77491), Iron Oxides (CI 77499)

After using this daily for over a month, here are my thoughts. I love the texture of this serum. After applying it, my skin looks dewy and fresh. Since it’s winter, I add in a few drops of facial oil. It smells a bit more like radish than strawberries to me which isn’t a big deal because strawberries might be too sweet. The smell doesn’t linger which I love. So far I’m loving this!

RATING: 5/5

Before receiving this from Volition Beauty, I was planning to buy it. I would definitely purchase this once I finish this bottle. I prefer it over the Celery Green Cream (read my review).

Have you tried Volition Beauty?

Love,

*This was gifted to me by Volition Beauty.

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November 2019 Product Empties

November 28, 2019

Hi Everyone!

I’ve got quite a few empties this month! Keep reading to find out which ones I’d repurchase.

Tula Acne Clearing + Tone Correcting Gel – I like this gel. It doesn’t dry out my skin or irritate it like other salicylic acid products. Unfortunately for me, Tula stopped selling outside of the United States.

Repurchase? I would if I could.

Dr Paw Paw Original Balm (read my review) – This product was okay, but it didn’t do much more than Vaseline (which is a lot cheaper).

Repurchase? No.

Laneige Lip Glowy Balm in Grapefruit* (read my review) – I liked this lip balm, but it tasted like artificial grapefruit.

Repurchase? Yes, in a different flavour.

Goldfaden MD Bright Eyes* (read my review) – I really enjoyed this eye cream. I didn’t really notice if it brightened my under eyes, but it didn’t have any scent to it and wasn’t too thick. It didn’t cause any reactions under my eyes. It wouldn’t be hydrating enough for Fall/Winter, but I liked it for Spring/Summer.

Repurchase? Yes.

Tatcha The Deep Cleanse Exfoliating Cleanser – This was an okay cleanser, but I don’t think it’s worth splurging. It didn’t do anything special compared to cheaper options.

Repurchase? No.

Smashbox Photo Finish Primerizer – This is one of my favourite primers. I’ve already repurchased one to replace this.

Repurchase? Absolutely.

Tarte Timeless Smoothing Primer – This is one of Tati’s (GlamLifeGuru) favourite pore-filling primers. It is a great primer, but it comes in a jar and it’s a bit thicker than other pore-filling primers. You also have to make sure to press it into the skin, don’t rub it in or it will pill. If you use too much, it can get cakey. It’s a great pore-filling and blurring primer.

Repurchase? Probably not since I’ve found others that are easier to use.

Morphe Highlight & Contour Beauty Sponge – This was denser than I thought it would be. I didn’t love it and didn’t hate it.

Repurchase? Maybe.

What did you finish this month?

Love,

Products with (*) were gifted to me.

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Unboxing Look Fantastic Beauty Box | November 2019 Hygge Edition

November 19, 2019

Hi Everyone!

I was sent the November Look Fantastic US Beauty Box – Hygge Edition.

This month is all about finding comfort and contentment in life’s simple pleasures.

The box contains 6 items to pamper yourself:

View this post on Instagram

I love the sleek, white packaging of this cream. The cream itself feels very nice and smoothing. It's a bit too strongly scented for my sensitive nose. It almost has this powdery scent to it which I don't mind, but I prefer unscented body and hand creams. . . . . *gifted in the @lookfantasticus box

A post shared by Jen (@jencatbeauty) on Nov 11, 2019 at 12:46pm PST

Espa Smooth & Firm Body Butter

Lather the body in this nourishing body butter, leaving skin soft and supple. Enriched with hydrating Larch and smoothing Pumpkin Seed Extract, this body butter deeply moisturises and evens skin tone. Delicately fragranced with Rose, Patchouli and Mandarin Essential Oils, indulge in a moment of self-care with this body butter.

This Works Deep Sleep Pillow Spray

Get a great night’s sleep with this pillow spray – proven to help you fall asleep quicker and wake up feeling refreshed. Infused with a superblend of Lavender, Vetivert and Chamomile, this pillow spray helps to calm mind and body – soothing you to sleep.

Nuxe Huile Prodigieuse Riche

In just one step, achieve nourished, softer and comfortable skin. Combining intense nutrition with a subtle fragrance, this riche oil nourishes, repairs and leaves a satin finish. Able to be used on face, body and hair, this multi-use oil is a cold weather saviour.

So Eco Konjac Sponge

A sponge made from vegetable fibres of the Konjac plant, this biodegradable sponge helps to gently cleanse and exfoliate with every use. Designed to help balance the pH of the skin, this sponge is suitable for all skin types.

Dr Botanicals Hemp Infused Natural Nutrition Moisturizer

Infused with Hemp Seed Oil and Cocoa Butter, this day moisturiser protects, nourishes and hydrates the complexion. Containing 2% Hemp Seed Oil, this whipped moisturiser provides essential fatty acids that help provide the skin with essential vitamins and minerals.

View this post on Instagram

REVIEW // Happy #selfcaresunday ! I tried out this glove mask from the @lookfantasticus box and really enjoyed it! It's a "revitalising serum enriched with shea butter, Aloe Vera & hyaluronic acid in an innovative glove mask." It was my first time trying a glove mask. My fingers were really dry after taking off my nail polish, so I thought I'd try it out to see how well it worked. They're plastic gloves with an inner lining (that's like a face sheet mask) soaked in serum. The most saturated parts of the glove were probably the fingers. After 20 minutes, it does kind of feel like when you're in a bath/swimming pool too long. Any longer than 30 minutes, and my fingers would definitely feel pruny/wrinkly. Since there was an inner lining, the outer part of the glove wasn't wet at all and I was able use my phone with the gloves on (bonus!). It definitely made my hands feel softer and not as dry. It's been a few days and my hands still feel pretty soft and smooth. It would definitely be nice to put these glove masks on while doing a face mask, then you can just sit back and relax. I would definitely consider buying this one. It's definitely on the pricey side, but they have a 4 pack available where you can get 4 for the price of 3. . . . . #gifted

A post shared by Jen (@jencatbeauty) on Nov 10, 2019 at 12:15pm PST

Skimono Beauty Hand Mask for Intense Nourishment

Designed for hardworking hands, this unique mask soothes and moisturises the hands. A unique bio-cellulose glove inspired by a multi-layered Kimono, this hand mask is saturated in a formula rich in Shea Butter, Aloe Vera and Hyaluronic Acid to promote supple and smooth skin.

Before receiving this box, I had only heard of the Nuxe oil. I’ve only tried 2 of the 6 products so far, but I really enjoyed the Skimono mask. My hands (especially the pads of my fingers) were really dry and I used the mask and they felt a lot smoother after I used it.

Have you tried the Look Fantastic Beauty Box?

Love,

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This or That | Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask vs. Lip Glowy Balm

November 12, 2019

Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m comparing two Laneige products: Lip Sleeping Mask vs. Lip Glowy Balm. The lip sleeping mask came out first and it was the first lip mask I’ve tried. Then they came out with the Lip Glowy Balm which could be considered the travel-friendly, daytime version of the Lip Sleeping Mask. They do have some differences (not just the packaging). I received the Lip Glowy Balm from Laneige Canada and won the Lip Sleeping Mask in a giveaway, but I would’ve bought both on my own.

Lip Sleeping Mask

A leave-on lip mask that soothes and moisturizes for smoother, more supple lips overnight. Lip Sleeping Mask has a softening balm texture that closely adheres to lips for quick absorption. A generous layer of this soothing mask at bedtime helps reduce flakiness so you can wake up to lips that feel refreshed, supple, and soft to the touch.

Lip Glowy Balm

A lightweight, moisture-coating lip balm for hydrated, tinted, and kissable lips throughout the day. The perfect daytime partner in crime to the cult-favorite Lip Sleeping Mask, Glowy Lip Balm is pocket sized for easy, on-the-go application. The formula contains murumuru and shea butters that provide powerful hydration and lock in moisture longer.

Lip Sleeping Mask

$26 CAD (0.7oz/20g)

Comes in a pot with a spatula, not as travel-friendly

Available in Berry (Original), Vanilla, Apple Lime, Grapefruit, Mint Chocolate Chip (Limited Edition)

Lip Glowy Balm

$20 CAD (0.35oz/10g)

Comes in a tube, easy to pop in your purse/pocket

Available in Berry, Grapefruit, Pear, Peach

I have the Berry Sleeping Mask and the Grapefruit Glowy Balm. So, I can’t say if the berry and grapefruit scents smell exactly the same. Before I got the Glowy Balm, I had worn the Sleeping Mask in the daytime. Looking at the specs, the Sleeping Mask is twice the size for only $6 more, but it’s too bulky to throw in your purse. After every use, I like to wipe down the spatula that came with the Sleeping Mask. The Glowy Balm is easy to apply straight from the tube.

I’ve found that the Sleeping Mask doesn’t taste like anything (when I’ve licked my lips), but the Glowy Balm DOES taste like grapefruit. Since I don’t have the same flavour in both lip products, I can’t say if all glowy balms have a taste or all grapefruit ones have a taste. At some point, I might have to buy the Berry flavour in the Glowy Balm to see.

WINNER: Lip Sleeping Mask

I think I prefer the Lip Sleeping Mask over the Glowy Balm. I also prefer the Original Berry flavour over the Grapefruit. I can use the Sleeping Mask during the day or night, but I personally don’t want to use the Glowy Balm at night because it’s tinted and I don’t want it getting on my pillowcases or duvet cover. Also, the Sleeping Mask is more cost effective. It may not be as travel-friendly, but I have other lip products that I can throw in my purse.

Which Laneige lip product do you prefer?

Love,

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Review | Bali Balm Lemon & Black Pepper Lip Balm

November 5, 2019

Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m reviewing the Bali Balm Lip Balm in Lemon & Black Pepper! I received this product from Calissa.

An invigorating blend of citrusy lemon and spicy black pepper which give this luxurious lip balm its signature zing. Lemon oil is often used to rejuvenate dull skin and the aroma is said to reduce anxiety and improve mental clarity. Black pepper has a warming effect and is a natural antibacterial.

INGREDIENTS: Coconut Oil, Castor Seed Oil, Candelilla Wax, Kukui Nut Oil, Sugarcane Extract, Lemon Peel Oil, Black Pepper Fruit Oil, Lemon Myrtle Oil, Peppermint Leaf Oil, Rosemary Extract, Wheat Germ Oil, Vanilla Fruit Extract.

Calissa sells 3 other lip balm flavours: Bergamot & Grapefruit, Sandalwood & Ginger and Cinnamon & Burnt Orange. I think the Bergamot & Grapefruit One would be my fave.

The tube has a simple design. The lip balm comes in a nice, sturdy rectangular box that you can re-use. It’d be perfect to store your jewellery when you travel.

A lot of lip balms are quite colourful, so I think men might enjoy using this one since darker colours in packaging are considered masculine. The lip balm itself has a thicker formula. I have to squeeze it harder than my Jouer or Laneige lip balm. I think this is good because if you have this in your purse, it’s less likely to ooze out if it’s squeezed. The lemon and black pepper has a fresh, yet a little spicy scent. I don’t know if it’s black pepper or if it’s the peppermint that gives it a bit of a kick. The balm gives a sheen to the lips, but not too glossy. When you apply it, you can feel a little tingle, but it goes away after a while.

RATING: 3.5/5

I find lemon-scented products can easily smell like a kitchen cleaner. So, I don’t love this one, but I think I’d enjoy the bergamot & grapefruit one. This is on the pricier side of lip balms, but it’s free of mineral oil, beeswax and fragrances.

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 get a discount!)

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

Love,

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October 2019 Product Empties

October 31, 2019

Hi Everyone!

Perricone MD Cold Plasma+ Face Serum* (read my review) – This was a nice product, but it’s way too expensive for what you get. I used this up in about a month (used it day and night). Because it comes in a tub and it’s very fluid, I used way more than I needed to and therefore finished it quicker than a bottle of the same size.

Repurchase? Probably not.

Pixi Vitamin-C Tonic* – I enjoyed this and my sensitive skin didn’t have any reactions to it.

Repurchase? I would definitely buy this in the future.

Heimish All Clean Balm (read my review) – I don’t know if the cleansing balm went bad or something, but it smelled very different from when I first got it. My skin was reacting to something and I don’t know if it was the cleansing balm or something else, but now I won’t know because I probably won’t repurchase it.

Repurchase? Probably not.

Amorepacific Treatment Cleansing Foam – It was nice, but my face felt quite dry after using it. It wouldn’t become my everyday cleanser, but I might use it once a week to get a good clean.

Repurchase? Probably not.

Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil Ultra Fine Shape & Define in 6* (read my review) – Love this!

Repurchase? Absolutely.

Elle Derm Anti-Stress Age Perfector Rejuvenating & Brightening Cream* (read my review) – This cream had salicylic acid. I prefer having a salicylic acid in a cleanser or a serum instead of my creams.

Repurchase? Probably not.

Herbal Essences Hello Hydration Shampoo – I’m picky when it comes to coconut scents, but this is one of my favourites. it doesn’t smell like fake coconuts or plastic.

Repurchase? Probably.

Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Frxxxtion Stick 3-in-1 Exfoliating Cleanser – I like this exfoliating stick. It’s gentle on the face and easy to travel with.

Repurchase? Yes.

COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches (read my review) – Love these. If you haven’t tried them, you should get acne patches!

Repurchase? Absolutely!

What did you finish this month?

Love,

Products marked with * were sent to me.

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Sept/Oct 2019 Faves

October 29, 2019

Hi Everyone!

I’m sharing September and October’s beauty favourites!

Dolce & Gabbana 3 L’Imperatrice Eau De Toilette – I don’t usually like florals, but I got a sample of this from Sephora and really loved it. I saw some reviews on Sephora where people have said it doesn’t last long on them because it’s an Eau de Toilette. While I would agree that it doesn’t last as long as an Eau de Parfum, I can still smell it at the end of the day after using only 1 spritz. I bought this at the Shiseido Warehouse Sale for $35 so maybe that’s why I can justify it. I know this is in my Sept/Oct faves, but I feel like this is more of a warm weather scent. I have another perfume in my collection that I like to wear in the Fall and Winter months, but this will be my new Spring/Summer scent (replacing my Acqua Di Gioia Eau de Parfum).

Goldfaden MD Bright Eyes* (read my review) – I’m really enjoying this eye cream. I don’t think it’s quite hydrating enough for me in the winter time, but I really like it for the warmer months. It’s one of the few eye creams that hasn’t caused some reaction on my under eyes.

MUJI Acrylic Storage Case with Sliding Doors – I am loving this acrylic organizer. It keeps my products dust-free and it makes a beautiful prop for shelfies! Also, the fact that it’s clear makes it easier for me to see what products I have in my collection.

Sephora PRO Featherweight Powder Brush #91 – This brush is so soft! I saw a review on the Sephora website where someone said this brush was called the ‘Bunny Punch’ because “it’s so soft and thick it’s like you’re being punched by a bunny when you use it.” It really is super soft! The only drawback is that it’s top heavy (especially because the handle is tapered). I use it with my setting powder. I don’t swirl the brush around my face, but I tap it using the side of the brush.

Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder – I am loving this powder! I’ve tried the Laura Mercier one that everyone raves about. I had a deluxe sample of it and it would always come out of the sieve clumpy. I don’t know if it’s supposed to be like that, but it just didn’t impress me. This Hourglass powder, on the other hand, is lovely! I think I even like it better than the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder which was in my faves for July/August. I’ve already hit pan on the CT powder and also the shade doesn’t match (and there’s only 3 to choose from). I like that this Hourglass one is translucent and I think loose powders just work better for me anyway.

What products have you been loving lately?

Love,

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52% said they DO buy backups

Check out my previous beauty expenses posts:

2017 | 2018