• december 2019 empties

    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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  • skimono hand mask look fantastic box

    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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  • volition beauty strawberry c brightening serum

    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 empties

    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:

    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

    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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  • laneige lip sleeping mask vs lip glowy balm

    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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  • First Impressions with Revlon Salon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer

    October 24, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing the Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer that was sent to me for review.

    The Revlon One-Step Hair Dryer and Volumizer is a designed Hot Air Brush to deliver gorgeous volume and brilliant shine in a single step. The unique oval brush design smooth hair while the rounded edges quickly create volume at the root and beautifully full-bodied curls at the ends in a single pass, for salon blowouts at home.

    Designed with Nylon Pin & Tufted Bristles for detangling, improved volume and control. 1100-Watt power provides just the right heat. Unlike conventional hair dryers, this volumizer can be placed closer to the scalp for lift. 3 Heat/Speed Settings for Styling Flexibility. Built with a genuine ION generator to promote faster drying and create styles full of shinier and healthier-looking hair. Ceramic Coating helps protect hair from over-styling with even heat distribution that penetrates hair quickly and dries from the inside out.

    A quick fact about my hair: it’s straight and doesn’t hold a curl well. When I use the brush, it makes my hair look sleek, smooth and shiny. I haven’t gotten the volume that I’ve seen other ladies get from using this brush, but that’s because I need to work on my technique. I’ve seen awesome results on people who have curly hair.

    RATING: 4/5

    My initial thought when I took it out of the box was that it was big. Even though the brush is fairly lightweight, it does get heavy after a while. Since the brush part is lighter, it’s not perfectly balanced. Even though the handle is curved to fit in your hand easily, I feel like it’s still a bit big for people with smaller hands. I’d say my hands are average-sized. Someone with dexterity issues might have trouble gripping it. Maybe a silicone grip could be useful.

    Sometimes when I use a round brush, I get it tangled in my hair. I haven’t gotten my hair tangled in the Revlon brush at all…yay! I probably wouldn’t travel with it because I’d be worried about the bristles getting squished. It would be nice if it came with some sort of protective hard case. I’m worried that over time the bristles will bend because I store it sideways.

    I’ve found that the best way to use it is with slightly damp hair. You don’t want your hair dripping wet. The brush easily detangles hair, but I like to comb my hair out with a brush before I start using it.

    Update: I’ve cut my hair short – now it hits my collarbone. When I first used the hair tool, it was a few inches longer. I like the hair tool a lot more now that my hair is short.

    Whether you want a sleek, straight hair look or a salon-like blowout, this is a great tool. On the Revlon website, it comes in 3 different colours (pink, mint and teal) and if an oval brush isn’t your thing, they also have one that’s like a paddle brush.

    Love,

    *Product was gifted to me for review.

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  • Review | Dr. Jackson’s Night Cream

    October 16, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing Dr. Jackson’s Night Cream. A product I received from Calissa.

    Overloaded with leading botanical ingredients, Dr Jackson’s 02 Night Cream is intensely moisturising in order to hydrate and soften your skin. The calming aroma will help you to gradually drift off as your skin is enriched whilst you sleep.
     
    The replenishing combination of baobab seed oil, mango seed butter, kigelia fruit extract and frankincense tree resin in Dr Jackson’s 02 Night Cream 30ml helps to give you a rejuvenated, glowing complexion. Kigelia fruit extract helps to firm, soothe and brighten the complexion and even out skin tone. Baobab seed oil helps to improve skin firmness and strength and to diminish the look of fine lines to reveal radiant skin. Frankincense resin calms and soothes the skin and is often recommended for the treatment of blemishes. Mango seed extract helps to protect the skin against environmental aggressors.

    It comes in a black opaque glass jar and comes with a little spatula. It smells a bit woodsy and also reminds me a bit of Vick’s. It’s nowhere near as strongly scented, but just has a hint of that scent. The cream itself is quite thick – a little goes a long way.

    For me, I think night creams are a bit too thick to use every day. My face has a bit of a freak out if I use a cream that’s too thick. I would prefer to use a mask a couple times a week instead of using a daily night cream that’s too heavy.

    RATING: 3/5

    This would be a great cream for men (especially since a lot of men’s products come in black packaging).

    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,

    *I was sent this product by the team at Calissa. All opinions are my own.

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  • Review | Global Beauty Care Starstruck Glitter Masking Trio

    October 14, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing the Global Beauty Care Starstruck Glitter Masking Trio that I received from the brand. It’s a set of 3 different peel-off masks and a silicone applicator.

    Blue – Age Defying (Revive, Renew, Restore with Collagen and Retinol)
    Silver – Illuminating (Glow, Illuminate, Radiate with Vitamin C and Grapefruit)
    Pink – Pore Refining (Minimize, Smooth, Strengthen with Aloe and Witch Hazel)

    I have a love/hate relationship with peel-off masks. I love peeling them off, but I hate the waiting time for them to dry and if you don’t apply a thin, even layer, it takes ages to dry and sometimes you have to wash it off. But because it’s sticky, it’s like you’re washing glue down the drain which is bad for your pipes. I do my best to apply a thin layer, but sometimes it just applies thick. For some reason, the blue mask applied a little thicker than the other two masks. I was worried I’d scratch my face and a few times I could feel the stars as I brushed it onto my face. I had to wash off some parts of the mask because it was too thick and it was taking too long to dry and I could feel the stars scratch my face as I cleaned off the remainder of the mask.

    RATING: 2/5

    I think the glittery mask is fun for a slumber party, but they are unnecessary for everyday masks. I find them to be quite gimmicky. I think it’s only because GlamGlow has those vibrant-coloured masks and other skincare brands are trying to keep up with them. (I don’t know if GlamGlow was the first, but that’s the first brand that comes to mind when I think of fun, coloured masks). 

    What do you think about glittery masks? Cool or gimmicky?

    Love,

    *This trio was sent to me.

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  • First Impressions with Spacemasks

    October 11, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing Spacemasks! My friend bought me one as a gift and Spacemask kindly sent me one as well. The one with the red packaging is in aid of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity box.

    The heating process works by a thin layer of iron filings entwining with the oxygen molecules in the air. It is totally safe. The ever so relaxing jasmine is in a low concentration. So you can enjoy its fragrance without irritating the skin.

    The designs on the masks are super cute. The jasmine scent is very very light. It’s meant to help relax and relieve tiredness and eye strain. You can definitely feel the warmth of the mask (it’s not hot, just toasty warm). You slip the loops around your ear and sit back while enjoying the heat. It’s a dry mask, so you don’t have to worry about it being messy. After 15 minutes, you can definitely feel the warmth on your eyes and under eyes. It’s probably best to use it when the weather is colder and when you’re getting ready for bed.

     

    RATING: 3.5/5

    It’s a cool idea to help relieve tiredness and eye strain. I think it would be really nice if they were reusable. You know those hand warmers that you can heat up and re-use? It would be great if these were reusable.

    Check out Spacemasks on Instagram!

    Love,

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  • First Impressions with MOR Emporium

    October 9, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Last month, I received a box from Calissa with 3 products and today, I’ll be reviewing the MOR Emporium Trio of Treasures. The trio includes: a soapette, hand cream and perfume oil. They sent over the Lychee Flower scent. It looks like Calissa doesn’t have the Trio of Treasures, but they do have the soap and candle in the lychee flower scent as well as a variety of other products from the brand.

    First of all, I love the beautiful design on the products and the tin is such a cute little container.

    All 3 products smell very strongly of lychee especially the perfume oil and hand cream.

    Hand Cream

    Enriched with Vitamin E, Shea and Cocoa Seed butters for smooth, soft and perfectly perfumed hands.

    I don’t like using scented hand creams, so I gave it to my mom to use. She tried it on and she said the cream felt very nice and moisturizing, but it was a bit too strong for her. So, she ended up giving the cream to my grandma who loves scented hand creams.

    RATING: 3/5

    While it is a nice scent and the hand cream itself is nice, the scent is so strong that you wouldn’t be able to wear it in an office.

    Perfume Oil

    Bountiful with Rosehip, Vitamin E, Sweet Almond Oil and flourishing with fragrance for silky-soft skin and perfectly perfumed pulse points.

    The perfume oil is a rollerball and as soon as I applied some to my wrists, I could instantly smell the lychee. The product felt very nice (not too oily). After a while, it started to mix with my body chemistry and faded a bit after I washed my hands. By the end of the day, it smelled quite nice. Personally, I love fruity fragrances, but this one is a bit on the sweet side for me.

    RATING: 3.5/5

    Soapette

    Housed in a collectable tin, each precious Soapette creates a decadent lather that leaves skin brilliantly refreshed.

    • Enriched with nourishing Shea Butter and Vitamin E
    • Velvety Triple-Milled soap for a smoother, creamier and more luxurious lather

    I think the soapette is my favourite product. It smells like lychee, but when you walk into the bathroom, you can’t smell it. You can definitely smell it when you use it though and it’s the most subtle of the three products. I’ve been using it for a few weeks as the soap on my sink and it hasn’t softened (like some soaps I’ve tried). There’s still quite a bit left.

    RATING: 4/5

    All of these products were nice, but if you have a sensitive nose like I do, you probably won’t like these. If you don’t mind stronger scents and you like lychee and sweet-smelling products, you’ll like these products.

    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,

    *I was sent this product by the team at Calissa. All opinions are my own.

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  • In Flight Magic Long-haul hydration mask 1

    First Impressions with Girl Voyager (formerly In-Flight Magic)

    October 4, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’ll be reviewing one of two masks that I received from Girl Voyager.

    Here’s a little bit about the brand from their website:

    “Your usual skin care routine is fine for a usual day. But when you travel, skin needs more. Our products are carefully formulated to match the demands on skin of your particular travel journey – whether that is long-haul flying, a beach holiday, embarking on a desert adventure, attending a special event, or over-nighting in an air-conditioned hotel. Every one of these environments places a different set of demands on skin. At In-Flight Magic we design not for skin type but for the environmental conditions into which the woman or man is traveling (or working).”

    Their products are formulated without: Mineral oil, synthetic fragrances, sulfate detergents, parabens, PEGs, PPGs, DEA, TEA, urea or phthalates.

    I received the two masks a while back and finally decided to try them because I don’t have any travel plans in the near future.

    You can apply it at home before you leave for your flight or apply it on the plane when the lights have gone down. It doesn’t have any added fragrance, but it has a subtle watermelon scent that doesn’t linger. So you don’t have to worry about the person sitting next to you. 

    The packets have 5mL which is more than enough for 2 times (could maybe even use it 3-4, depending how generously you apply). If you have a travel buddy, you could share with them or you could pack it up nicely and save it for your return flight.

    Long-Haul Hydration Mask

    • 36 Hour 3D Hydration Booster
    • Micro-Film In-Door Pollution Barrier    
    • Reduces Risk of Sensitisation
    • Leave On, Invisible Clear Mask

    I opened the package and the mask was quite thick. It felt a lot like a pore-filling primer because it feels silicone-y (similar to the Touch In Sol No Poreblem Primer, but a bit thicker). I can definitely see how this acts as a barrier between your skin and the pollution.

    It made my face look nice and smooth. I enjoyed the mask and it kept my face feeling smooth and hydrated for 6 hours. It probably would’ve lasted longer, but it was time for me to wash up. My face did feel slightly tacky the whole time and I could definitely tell there was something on my face, but it wasn’t uncomfortable.

    RATING: 4/5

    I have yet to try the Oil-Free mask (I will post a review once I’ve tried it), but here’s a comparison:

    Long-Haul Hydration Mask

    Packed with scientifically proven mega-hydrators and protectants, all held together in a beautiful base of Certified Organic Babassu Oil and Certified Organic Aloe Vera, this clear mask is the perfect saviour to prevent dehydrated, irritated skin.

    Arrive even-toned, no redness, calmed, plumped and with happy skin that glows.

    Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Propanediol, Ethylhexyl Olivate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Chondrus Crispus (Red Marine Algae) Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glycerin, Betaine from Beets, Sugar Cane Squalane, Cetearyl Glucoside, Polysorbate 60, Organic Orbignya Oleifera (Babassu) Seed Oil, Citrus Unshiu Peel Extract, Xylitylglucoside, Anhydroxylitol, Xylitol, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract, Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester, Organic Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Lecithin, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexyglycerin, Biphenyl Azepanyl Methanone, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Watermelon Natural Flavour.

    Long-Haul Hydration Mask (Oil-Free)

    Dehydrated air on planes can make oily skin more oily, so the solution to acne-prone and oily skins on long-haul flights is hydration, hydration, hydration.

    This jelly mask keeps your skin hydrated, preventing oiliness, so you arrive plumped fresh and glowing with even skin tone.

    Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Propanediol, Glycerin, Betaine, Methyl Gluceth-20, Citrus Unshiu Peel Extract, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Chrondrus Crispus Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Xylitylglucoside, Anhydroxylitol, Xylitol, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract, Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester, Organic Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexyglycerin, Biphenyl Azepanyl Methanone, Watermelon Natural Flavour.

    **The ingredients in bold are listed in both ingredient lists.

    I think this is a really cool idea to help protect your skin while traveling.

    Girl Voyager has a variety of different masks and it looks like more are coming soon! They will also be selling the Long-Haul Hydration Masks in tubes which would be great if you’re a frequent flyer.

    Love,

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  • Perricone MD Cold Plasma+ Face

    Review | Perricone MD Cold Plasma+ Face Serum

    September 25, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing the Perricone MD Cold Plasma+ Face that I received from Calissa.com.

    A multi-tasking powerhouse, this advanced face serum concentrate promotes the 9 most visible signs of healthy, youthful-looking skin. Targets and dramatically improves loss of radiance, uneven texture, uneven tone, discoloration, redness, enlarged pores, fine lines, wrinkles and loss of firmness.

    Apply liberally morning and evening on cleansed skin. Follow with a moisturiser.
     
    Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, Isopropyl Palmitate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Butylene Glycol, Phosphatidylcholine, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Dimethyl MEA, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-3, Tyrosine, Glycolic Acid, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Magnesium Aspartate, Zinc Gluconate, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Copper Gluconate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Retinyl Palmitate, Echium Plantagineum Seed Oil, Hydrolyzed Myrtus Communis Leaf Extract, Copper Tripeptide-1, Dimethicone, Disodium EDTA, Carbomer, Ceteareth-20, Cyclopentasiloxane, Caprylyl Glycol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cyclohexasiloxane, Polysorbate 20, Zea Mays (Corn) Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Sorbic Acid

    I will be honest and say that when I first smelled this from the jar, it kind of smelled like glue to me. It still smells a bit like glue, but it doesn’t linger.

    I did a patch test on my arm and my arm felt super smooth after the product sank in. When I use it on my face, my face feels a bit tacky, but smooth.

    This serum comes in a pot and it was a lot more fluid than I expected. From the picture on the website, it looks more creamy, but it’s actually quite runny. I also don’t love the pot because I have to use my finger to pick up product. It didn’t come with a spatula because it’s too runny. It says to ‘apply liberally’ and it’s very easy to get too much product. Since it comes in a pot, I use way more than I’m meant to because I dip my finger in and get a lot more than I need. I think this would be great in a bottle with a pump and it would be a lot easier to know how much to use.

    I feel like this product isn’t targeted toward me since I’m under 30. I know it’s good to start using anti-aging products early, but this product is also quite pricey for someone in my age range. At $146 CAD for 30mL, this is a very expensive serum. Also, I started using this fairly recently (day and night) and I’m pretty sure I’ll finish the pot before the end of the year. 

    I will say that since I started using this, my face has been pretty clear lately. I only had a hormonal breakout on my chin.

    RATING: 3/5

    What I like:

    • No added fragrance
    • I’ve noticed that the redness around my nose and chin aren’t as noticeable

    What I don’t like:

    • The fluidity of the product + the jar (it could make a mess when traveling)
    • The price

    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:

    Bali Balm Lemon & Black Pepper Lip Balm
    Dr. Jackson’s Night Cream
    Goldfaden MD Bright Eyes
    MOR Emporium Lychee Flower Trio of Treasures
    Perricone MD No Lip Gloss Lip Gloss

    Love,

    *I was sent this product by the team at Calissa. All opinions are my own.

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