• First Impressions with Purify Soap Co.

    May 28, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m doing a first impressions review of a brand called Purify Soap Co. They reached out to me on Instagram for an honest review and they sent me their Kisameet Clay Balm and Soap Bar. Keep reading to hear my thoughts on these two products!

    Mineral Clay Balm

    I tried the balm first and I was unsure of how I would like it because it does smell like clay. I put it on my lips and luckily, I couldn’t smell it after I applied it. It felt very moisturizing and kept my lips nourished for a few hours. Let’s move on to the soap bar before I tell you my rating…

    Cleansing Soap

    Lather in your hands and apply to your face and body (or you can lather directly onto your face and body for more exfoliation), leave for 2 minutes. Wash off, avoiding contact with the eyes. Now, it’s your skin’s time to shine!

    Ingredients
    Carthamus tinctorius (safflower) seed oil, elaeis guineensis (palm) oil, cocos nucifera (coconut) oil, aqua,  sodium hydroxide, Kisameet Clay (Colloidal Clay), melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil, lavandula angustifolia (lavender) oil, menthe piperita (peppermint) oil, ocimum basillicum (basil) oil. 

    The soap bar smells minty and as I lathered it on my skin, I could feel it exfoliating my arms. The next day, unfortunately, I woke up and my lips were a bit inflamed and I had a bit of a breakout on my arms. It’s been three days and the left side of my lip still looks a bit puffy. I must’ve had some sort of reaction to both products which is disappointing because one of the claims is to help with eczema.

    I know that coloured bars of soap look pretty, but any soap bar that isn’t white just makes a mess of the sink and shower. Similar to a charcoal bar of soap I recently tried from Woodlot, this one ‘bled’ greenish-gray.

    RATING: 2/5

    Before I had the reaction, both products seemed very nice and might work for you. I haven’t quite figured out what it was that caused the reaction, but it’s safe to say that I can no longer use the balm. Since I have sensitive skin, I think that I had a very unusual reaction to something in both of the products. If the testimonials on their Instagram account have any truth to them, then it might work to help someone who has psoriasis or eczema. Even if this did work for me, it retails for $28 USD which I think is way too expensive for a bar of soap. As someone with eczema, I would rather just use my Cetaphil Gentle Daily Cleanser (for body and face).

    Love,

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  • TULA | My Hits & Misses

    May 21, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    I’m back with another Hits & Misses post for TULA.

    Check out my other Hits & Misses posts!

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

    SKINCARE || Eye Creams

    BRANDS || Bobbi Brown | Burt’s Bees | L’Oréal | Maybelline | Nude by Nature | NYX | Volition Beauty

    Before you read this post, please remember that we all have difference preferences and skin types. These are MY hits, misses and likes. You might love something I don’t like or dislike something I love.

    I’ve put each of the products I’ve tried into three different categories: Hits, Misses and Likes (not my faves, but would consider repurchasing).

    I’ve tried quite a few different products from TULA. I purchased all products myself and am not affiliated with them in anyway. So, when I first tried the brand, I decided to buy the Discovery Kit and then when I finished that, I tried the other kit and also purchased some of the full-sized versions of the products I enjoyed in the Discovery Kit.

    HITS

    Illuminating Face Serum – I think this has to be my favourite from TULA. I bought the full size of this after trying it in the discovery kit. It targets dark spots and I had a spot on my cheek from a blemish that just wouldn’t go away. I thought I would have the dark spot for years, but I think this has helped it slowly disappear.

    Kefir Replenishing Cleansing Oil – I liked this cleansing oil a lot and it lasted a long time for me.

    Acne Clearing + Tone Correcting Gel – I used to use this twice a day and it was drying my skin out. Now I use it as more of a spot treatment when I see some blemishes emerging.

    LIKES

    A lot of the products are in between for me. While I enjoyed using them, I wouldn’t say I NEED them in my life.

    Exfoliating Treatment Mask – While I like this mask, but it is pretty expensive for a mask that you wash off. I would rather spend more on a sleeping mask or serum.

    Dual-Phase Skin Reviving Treatment Pads – The exfoliating pads came in one of the kits I tried and while they were interesting and made my face feel smooth, they are so expensive (16 pads for $75 CAD).

    Purifying Cleanser – This is a nice cleanser that makes your face feel clean, but not stripped of its oils, but there are cleansers that are cheaper that work the same.

    Pro-Glycolic 10% PH Resurfacing Gel – This resurfacing toner gel is great. It’s nice and gentle and doesn’t irritate my skin, but it’s so expensive compared to other toners.

    Aqua Infusion Oil-Free Gel Cream – I would use in combination with the illuminating face serum. As someone with dry skin, I don’t think it was hydrating enough to use on its own, but it was a very nice and light gel cream if that’s what you’re looking for.

    Hydrating Day & Night Cream – I liked this cream, but I didn’t love that it came in a pot. I prefer the illuminating serum because it comes in a bottle with a pump.

    Have you tried TULA products? What were your faves?

    MISSES

    There’s only one product that was a miss for me and that was the eye cream.

    Multi-Spectrum Eye Renewal Serum – Both my mom and I tried this and it made our under eyes itchy.

    Have you tried TULA? What are your faves?

    Love,

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  • Review | Origins Ginzing Refreshing Eye Cream to Brighten and Depuff

    May 3, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing the Origins Ginzing Eye Cream to Brighten and Depuff. This one and the Ole Henriksen are super popular brightening eye creams. I thought I’d give this one a try first.

    A refreshing eye cream that visibly brightens the eye area by diminishing the appearance of dark circles and puffiness.

    It does illuminate the under eye because of the peachy tint. When I first started using it, I used too much and it brightened my under eyes too much. It would also dry down quickly and wouldn’t blend out well. Now that I know how much to use, it does brighten the under eye nicely. I don’t love the smell of this and I think I had a reaction to it because I got a milium (singular of milia since I only got one).

    RATING: 3/5

    I need a more hydrating under eye cream because my skin is so dry. I won’t be repurchasing this one.

    Love,

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  • First Impressions with Almay Eyeshadows and Jelly Highlighters

    April 29, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    I haven’t tried a lot of products from Almay. I was sent 10 Almay products to review (5 different products with two different shades of each). While that was very generous and all of the products look really pretty, not all of the shades are ones I would personally choose and if I opened them, I would just end up wasting them. So, I’m going to review the products that I’ve decided to keep for myself and I will be putting the unopened products in a future giveaway.

    Several of the products have that iridescent, unicorn vibe – especially the Jelly highlighters and glosses. These products are greatt for a fun makeup look, festival or Halloween…they would’ve been perfect to use for Coachella.

    Smoky Eye Trios Eyeshadow

    • Eye makeup with a velvety smooth texture
    • 3 simple steps to a smoky eye
    • Includes 1 dual ended applicator
    • Ophthalmologist tested – suitable for sensitive eyes & contact lens wearers
    • As always, hypoallergenic & fragrance free

    I received 020 Smoldering Embers and 030 Coppery Blaze.

    When you swatch the shadows with your fingers, they’re not the most pigmented. When you apply them though, they are very nice. For the Smoldering Embers palette, the shimmery bone shade is perfect to highlight the brow bone and I really love the brown shade because it’s smoky, but also perfect for an everyday look (this shade swatched the best out of the three shadows). You can add a bit more smoke by adding the purple shade.

    From top: Smoky Eye Trio Eyeshadow in Smoldering Embers (top to bottom), Shadow Squad Eyeshadow in 160 Thrill Seekers (swatches are clockwise from top left)

    Shadow Squad Eyeshadow

    • Your favorite shades, in each of four finishes: matte, satin, metallic, glitter
    • Mix it up in monochrome
    • Soft texture for beautiful color payoff

    I received 160 Thrill Seekers and 100 Unicorn.

    The Unicorn shades are either not going to show up or look weird on my skin tone, so I will be giving that one away. The Thrill Seekers teal shades are more my style anyway. Again, swatching them, they’re not the most pigmented shades. If you want to add some more pigment, apply it on top of the Velvet Foil Shadow (the Lunar Disco shade is the perfect shade) or make sure to use a shadow primer that will brighten it up.

    I prefer the bottom two shades from this palette. I usually prefer if my brightly coloured shadows are metallic or glittery because I’m not exactly going to use a matte green or teal as a transition shade. The matte shade was also a bit patchy.

    Velvet Foil Cream Shadow
     
    Wear each shade individually or combine for a dramatic customized eye look. Quick and easy application – apply with fingertips or an eyeshadow brush. No shadow fall-out during application.
    • Long wear formula – up to 24 Hour wear
    • High intensity color
    • Crease-proof, smudge-proof, fade-proof all day
    • Infused with Vitamin E and a botanical blend of ingredients

    I received 070 Astro Girl and 060 Lunar Disco

    I first swatched this on my hand (see below- it looks kind of black in that lighting, but it is more blue) and found it very difficult to wash off. It made me worry how hard it would be to remove from my eyes. I don’t have waterproof makeup remover, if you do, you’re probably fine, but it took me a bit more effort to remove it. Astro Girl is a white shade so that won’t really look good on my skin tone. I opened up Lunar Disco which is a blue shade. I tend to go for more neutral shadows, but this looks nice when you pair it with the Shadow Squad Eyeshadow in Thrill Seekers.

    Make Them Jelly Hi-Lite 24K Dreams, Unicorn Light, Velvet Foil Cream Shadow in Lunar Disco

    Make Them Jelly Hi-Lite

    Jelly highlighter that illuminates and shimmers, giving you a celestial glow.

    • Iridescent glitter sheen complements all skin tones
    • Instantly illuminates and adds moisture to skin
    • Buildable highlight for customized level of radiance
    • As always, hypoallergenic & fragrance free

    Pro Tips!

    • Brush onto cheekbones and the bridge of your nose for an iridescent gleam
    • Apply to collarbones and shoulders to make them pop
    • Mix with moisturizer or primer for an all-over glow
    • Add to foundation for customized radiance

    I received 003 Unicorn Light and 004 24K Dreams

    These jelly highlighters dry down a bit tacky. In the pro tips, it says to apply to bridge of nose, I think it’s a bit too chunky to do that, it’ll look like you had some fallout from an eyeshadow get onto your nose. Similar to the Inglot x Jennifer Lopez Livin’ the Highlight, this is a bit more chunky than I prefer my face highlighters to be. I prefer a wet look instead of shimmery chunks, so I think this would be best as a body highlighter for the collarbone and shoulders.

    I’ve compared these to the NYX Jelly Illuminator, check out my post (swatches included).

    Goddess Gloss

    A spectrum of prismatic lip glosses with holographic effects. Designed to be worn solo, mixed or layered.

    • Gives lips a holographic, iridescent glow
    • Lips feel moisturized and smooth, never sticky
    • Made with pomegranate, grape and raspberry oils
    • Available in 8 sheer, easy to wear, high-shine shades
    • As always, hypoallergenic & fragrance free

    Pro Tips!

    • Rock it solo for an iridescent glow on lips
    • Mix & match shades to create infinite ombré looks
    • Layer over lipstick for a transformative holographic effect

    I received 930 Dreamy and 900 Gilded

    These lip glosses really aren’t my style. I don’t really like iridescent lip sticks, but if that’s your style, I think these would look really good.

    This Almay collection is very fun and iridescent. I personally prefer a neutral look with a glowy highlighter so my favourite out of all of the products was the Smoldering Embers Smoky Eye Trio…boring, I know. As you may know, I’ve been trying to streamline my makeup collection. While fun shades and products are cool to try out, I don’t think I would’ve bought anything from this collection because I want to have products in my collection that are timeless and neutral (with maybe a nice pop of colour here and there).

    Have you tried Almay products? What were your thoughts?

    Love,

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  • This or That | COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches vs. Rael Miracle Patches

    April 19, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    I’ve tried out the Rael Hydrocolloid Acne Healing Patches (name has been changed to Miracle Patches) and compared it to my beloved COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches (read my review) and here are my thoughts:

    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

    The COSRX are the first patches I tried and I’ve compared them to the Nexcare ones which I didn’t like (read my review). I buy the COSRX patches on Chuusi.ca for $4.50 each.

    Rael Miracle Patches 

    Our high-grade absorbent hydrocolloid extracts impurities and provides a protective barrier that guards your skin from bacteria and irritants. These super-effective patches reduce inflammation and also prevent potential acne scarring.

    24 patches per pack (2 sizes):

    • 12 x 10mm
    • 12 x 12mm

    I bought these on Amazon.ca and got 4 packages for $24.46 which means 1 pack is $6.12

    The Rael ones remind me of the COSRX Clear Fit Master Patches (read my review) because they are tapered on the edges, but the COSRX Clear Fit only comes with 18 patches in 10mm size.

    Rael costs a little more, but they are better if you are wearing them out of the house. COSRX are cheaper, but they’re a little more noticeable (especially if it’s somewhere obvious like your cheek). COSRX comes with 10 of the small sized patches and I mostly use the medium and large patches. Sometimes when I peel off the COSRX ones, it folds over onto itself (like when you’re opening a bandaid and it sticks to itself and you can’t unstick it). The Rael (and the COSRX Clear Fit) patches are easier to peel off because the sheets are perforated.

    Cosrx (white sheet), Rael (clear sheets)
    Rael patches

    WINNER: It’s a tie!

    I think that since the COSRX ones aren’t tapered, they can absorb more. From now on, I will buy both and use the Rael ones if I need to wear one out of the house and use the COSRX for home.

    UPDATE: I’ve started to love the Rael patches more because I get pimples on my face where there’s curves (nose, jaw, chin). It’s easier for the Rael ones to stick since they’re thinner. I have noticed that if you wear the Rael ones for too long and there’s a lot of stuff to absorb, they will get gummy (for lack of a better word). The COSRX ones, since they’re thicker, they don’t get gummy.

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

    Love,

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  • Review | Freon Collective Reusable Cotton Rounds

    April 16, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Thank you to Freon Collective for these reusable 100% organic cotton rounds!

    I wanted to find a more eco-friendly alternative to cotton rounds like the Shiseido and Quo ones because let’s face it, those aren’t cheap! Having reusable cotton rounds will be so much more affordable and eco-friendly.

    These 100% organic cotton rounds come in sets of 15 and there are 9 different designs. I chose the Grey Marble ones. They come in a mesh bag so you can throw it into the laundry without losing any of them.

    They do absorb a little bit more liquid than regular cotton pads and they aren’t quite as soft either, but they are still gentle. After using half of them, I’ll throw the used ones into the laundry so that I have enough to last a few days while the used ones are washed and air-dried.

    RATING: 4/5

    I still have quite a few packages of one-use cotton rounds in my drawers so I will finish those and then move to the reusable ones. I think I will use my makeup eraser cloths to remove makeup and use these for toners and other skincare products because I don’t want them to get dirty too quickly.

    If you want to make the move to be more eco-friendly, they generously gave me a discount code to share with you guys! It’s not an affiliate code, just a 10% discount for my lovely followers! Use the code JEN10 at checkout!

    Love,

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  • First Impressions with LKins SkinCare

    April 12, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    I was contacted by Eileen from LKins SkinCare and very generously sent three products to review.

    After purchasing products from local stores and buying the most expensive products from high end department stores she wanted to create her own set of products that she would be proud to use and that would leave her skin hydrated and feeling youthful but most importantly be chemical free.

    She has dry, pale and sensitive skin and realized her skin was changing even more like so many others at this age and she wanted to protect it as much as possible. Her products contain natural and organic ingredients such as: vitamin c, aloe, coconut and honey.

    Vitamin C Eye Gel

    • Helps revitalize, soothe and refresh the look of your eye area
    • Helps diminish the appearance of dark circles and puffiness
    • Is oil free and easy to apply

    Ingredients: Glycerin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Ethoxydiglycol, Euphrasia Officinalis (Eyebright) Extract, Sodium PCA Ingredients: Deionized Water, Butylene Glycol, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Glycerin, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Ethoxydiglycol, Hesperidin Methylchalcone, Steareth-20-Dipeptide-2, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sorbic Acid, Carbomer, Camelia Sinensis (Green Tea) Extract, Euphrasia Officinalis (Eyebright) Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Sodium PCA, Triethanolamine, Glycosaminoglycans, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Allantoin

    *paraben free

    This doesn’t have a strong smell, but it does have a familiar scent that I can’t quite put my finger on. Perhaps it has the same smell as another skincare product I’ve swatched at Sephora. It feels tacky after using, so I think I’d prefer to use this during the day.

    RATING: 3.5/5

    I like that it’s not strongly scented and comes with a pump instead of a pot like other eye creams, but I find that it’s not hydrating enough for my very dry under eyes.

    Hydrating Toner

    Rids the skin of impurities, dirt, and dulling dead cells. Revitalizes and soothes skin, leaving it silky smooth, satin-soft, and with a pleasant fresh feeling.  

    Ingredients: Glycerin, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Glycolic Acid Ingredients: Deionized Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Rosa Centifolia Flower Water, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sorbic Acid, Polysorbate 20, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Mentha Citrata (Bergamot) Leaf Extract , Disodium EDTA, Glycolic Acid

    The toner is very gentle and works for my sensitive skin. It doesn’t have much of a scent which is nice. I don’t love the container it comes in because it’s a spray bottle which is kind of unusual for a toner. It kind of spurts out instead of sprays since it’s more viscous than a facial mist. I transferred it over to a glass bottle with a dropper which is working well for me.

    RATING: 4/5

    Coconut & Honey Aloe Cleanser

    This wonderful cleanser is made with aloe and coconut oil and Manuka Honey. An opaque, light gel; it gently foams while it cleanses and moisturizes the skin.

    Ingredients: Deionized Water, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Lauramide Diethanolamide, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Sorbic Acid, Fragrance, Manuka Honey, Acrylates/C 10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sweet Almond Oil, Triethanolamine, Chamomile Extract, Coconut Oil, Jojoba Oil, Rosemary Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate *paraben free

    The Coconut & Honey Aloe Cleanser is very a gentle cleanser. My face doesn’t feel dry/stripped of its natural oils after using it. It has a very light scent (I mostly smell the almond, which isn’t a bad thing, I just don’t really smell the honey or coconut), but for a cleanser, that’s not a big deal for me since you wash your face and then rinse it off. It does have fragrance in it which I’m trying to get away from for my skincare products, but otherwise it’s a great product that works with my sensitive skin.

    RATING: 3.5/5

    Have you heard of Lkins Skincare?

    Love,

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  • REVIEW | Oceà Natural Skincare Ocean Mineral Complex Masque

    April 2, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I have a review for a clay masque. I was generously sent the Ocean Mineral Complex Masque by Oceà Natural Skincare.

    At Oceà we have one very simple goal: to shift the skin care industry to natural, safe, and effective ingredients that eliminate the need for harsh chemicals.

    The masque comes in a glass pot and the masque itself has a whipped texture. It doesn’t have much of a smell, if anything it smells faintly of clay.

    Deeply healing clays of Kaolin are infused with detoxifying ocean minerals to naturally clarify and exfoliate your skin.

    Seaweed, Kelp, Irish Moss and Spirulina naturally restore your skin’s firmness and elasticity.

    Safflower, Sweet Almond, Rice Brand and Grapeseed oils then provide the deep hydration your skin deserves!

    This natural and organic product is gentle enough for all skin types and can be used several times per week.

    RATING: 3/5

    Since I have dry skin, I liked that this clay masque didn’t make my face feel dry after. My face felt nice and soft after using it, but I don’t know if it did anything to be honest. It didn’t exfoliate or bring out impurities like some clay masks I’ve tried. I like that it comes in a glass jar so I can re-use it after I finish the masque.

    Love,

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  • First Impressions with No Pong All Natural Deodorant

    March 19, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    I was sent two deodorants from No Pong, an Australian brand. Here’s a little info from the website:

    “pong” is an Australian/British term for an extremely strong, unpleasant smell. 

    No Pong is an extremely effective, All Natural Deodorant

    Made from delicious, all natural ingredients, blended together to create a ridiculously effective, sweat resistant, all day deodorant that does exactly what it says on the tin!

    Guaranteed to be 100% paraben, aluminium, cruelty and plastic free.

    No Pong is simple to apply, just like a lotion or a sunscreen.  Just take a dab on your fingertip, and apply to your armpit.

    They currently sell two: one with baking soda and one without. I decided to try the low fragrance one without baking soda. The consistency is similar to a sunscreen; it’s thicker than a lotion, but not waxy like a balm. Based on how it looked before I touched it (like the top one in the picture), I thought it would feel more balmy, so I was surprised when it felt creamy.

    It’s great that their deodorants have a gender-neutral scent. For me, I mostly smell the lemongrass which I’m not a huge fan of, but the deodorant works well and the scent is subtle enough that you can’t smell it (unless you apply too much). Obviously it’s not going to be like an anti-perspirant that will counteract sweat from a rigorous workout. But, I have sweated a little while wearing the deodorant and it help up well.

    I noticed that when I accidentally used too much of it, I got that white residue under my arms (like when you wear anti-perspirant). You really only need a small amount.

    RATING: 3.5/5

    I like how compact it is and that there’s no aluminium, it’s affordable and there’s no added fragrance (only essential oil). I also like how there’s a no baking soda option because I have sensitive skin. I’m not a huge fan of the lemongrass scent and I don’t love that you need to use your finger to apply it. I always have to wash my hands after and before I apply it whereas a deodorant stick is easy to pop on without having the need to wash my hands before and after.

    I’ve put the Original one into my 5K Instagram Giveaway because I already have another natural deodorant and didn’t want the ununsed one to go to waste before I got a chance to use it.

    What’s your fave natural deodorant? Have you tried No Pong?

    Love,

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  • First Impressions with Bali Body

    March 8, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I will be doing a first impressions review on some Bali Body products that I received from the brand. It’s an Australian brand…I think I’m getting contacted by Australian brands because I follow quite a few Australian beauty accounts on IG lol.

    I love the pastel matte bottle for the bronzing lotion and the rose gold and champagne-y gold tubes of the BB Cream and Lip Balm are so pretty.

    If you live in Canada like I do, it took exactly two weeks to arrive from their distribution centre in London.

    Before I start the reviews, I’d like to mention that just because certain products don’t work for me, it doesn’t mean that they’re bad. I’m just very sensitive to certain scents (especially coconut) and these products all have a scent.

    Coconut Lip Balm with SPF15

    A Coconut Lip Balm with SPF15 to hydrate and plump the lips while providing long lasting protection.

    This natural lip balm is packed with nourishing oils to smooth & repair dry & cracked lips day or night.

    RATING: 3/5

    I like that it comes in a squeezy tube with a plastic tip. As far as lip balms go, this is quite expensive when I’m used to buying Vaseline. This does feel very hydrating and makes your lips look very glossy, but not sticky. I would definitely throw this into my makeup bag to apply during the day. The coconut scent is a bit too strong for me to use at night time, but it’s okay during the day. I also don’t like the taste of it (not that I’m purposely eating it lol, but you know when you accidentally lick your lips or maybe you’re eating something and taste your lip balm).

    BB Cream with SPF15

    A multitasking beauty cream that combines hydrating skincare benefits to protect, correct and perfect the skin.

    Treat your skin in one easy step with this light-weight ultra-hydrating BB cream that provides perfect natural coverage instantly, while giving a healthy dewy glow.

    They have 4 shades: Fair, Natural, Tan and Dark

    I received the shade Natural and after reading reviews, I was excited to try this BB Cream.

    RATING: 2/5

    I don’t have a lot of luck with BB Creams on their own. I need more coverage than what BB Creams offer because I have dark spots from acne. So, this isn’t the type of base product I’m looking for, but if you want a very light coverage with SPF, you’ll love this BB Cream.

    Bronzing Lotion

    This antioxidant-rich moisturiser will provide a hint of tint while smoothing the skin with Vitamin E and natural oils.

    Enriched with organic caramel extract to provide an instant bronzed glow.

    This product isn’t a self tanner. It’s a lotion that’s tinted to give you a temporary bronzed look. It will wash off in the shower, so I wouldn’t go to sleep with this lotion on.

    Before using, make sure you exfoliated the night before because you want it to go on nice and smooth. It’s also better if you aren’t too hairy wherever you apply it. I applied it on my arms and the bronzing lotion was kind of collecting around my hairs. It dries pretty fast, so make sure to blend it in evenly. If you are wearing this, do NOT get it wet. A drop of water got on my arm and it obviously left a water drop in the ‘tan’.

    RATING: 3/5

    My skin felt moisturized with this lotion. But I have a very sensitive nose and I wasn’t a huge fan of the scent which smells like coconut and almond. It looks very intimidating when you squeeze it out of the bottle, but once you blend it out, it gives you a nice, bronzed glow. If you are pale like me, you will definitely see a difference. Personally, I think I would prefer to use a self-tanner that will stay on for a while instead of just a few hours.

    Final Thoughts

    I always love trying out new brands and I’m always grateful when I am sent products for review. While these products didn’t work for me, there are a lot of positive reviews on the site and other blogs that rave about Bali Body’s products.

    Love,

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  • First Impressions with KORAI Skincare

    March 1, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Update: There aren’t any items listed on their Etsy shop.

    I’m back with another review! I was generously sent two products from a new skincare brand called KORAI. It’s a Canadian brand that sells on Etsy. They currently sell the Cloud Cleanser and Amber Oil which are the two products I received.

    Spoiler Alert: both products are awesome!

    Amber Oil

    Nourishing, fragrance-free, and multipurpose. Amber Oil can be used from head to toe. A full dropper can melt away a face of makeup or environmental pollutants. 2-4 drops on damp and clean skin can seal in moisture without the worry of clogging your pores.

    Ingredients: Prunus amygdalus dulcis (sweet almond) oil, Rosa canina (rosehip) oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E Oil)

    I’ve been using the Amber Oil on my hands and face and they both feel soft and smooth. It hasn’t clogged my pores and it has a very light scent which is great for me. I tried removing my makeup with it, but I didn’t like it. It did remove my makeup, but obviously, it didn’t rinse off very well since oil and water don’t mix. So I will stick to using it as a facial oil.

    RATING: 5/5

    Cloud Cleanser

    • Deep cleansing
    • Sulfate free
    • Lightweight

    How to Use: Apply 1-2 pumps into freshly washed hands and rub onto dry

    skin in gentle circular motions for a minimum of one minute. Rinse with cool water and gently tap excess water into the skin until dry.

    Featured Ingredients:

    Authentic Ghanaian black soap contains ingredients that carry naturally anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is high in antioxidants, vitamin A and E. These nutrients aid in healing skin ailments like acne, eczema and psoriasis as well as balancing the skin’s tone and texture.

    Cold-pressed vitamin E oil can block free radicals and replenish the skin’s natural oils which help slow the process of aging signs. It is also known for assisting in healing wounds, preventing/minimizing the appearance of scars, and moisturizing the skin.

    Ingredients: Water/Eau, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Pod, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Kernel Oil, Plantago Major (Plantain) Skin, Moringa Oleifera (Moringa) Seed Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E Oil)

    RATING: 5/5

    This cleanser is great. It makes my face feel clean, but it’s also gentle enough for my sensitive, acne-prone skin. I love a foaming cleanser.

    Love,

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  • joanna vargas exfoliating mask

    First Impressions with Joanna Vargas Exfoliating Mask

    February 19, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m doing a first impressions review with Joanna Vargas’ Exfoliating Mask. I was sent this for review and here are my thoughts:

    An enzymatic exfoliating mask that sweeps skin clean for brilliance and glow.

    Apply a thin layer to cleansed and dampened skin. Scrub gently for one minute or leave on as a mask for 15 minutes. Rinse with tepid water.

    This mask looks like liquid gold. It’s more fluid than other exfoliating masks I’ve used which I’m not sure I love because I feel like I’ll accidentally use more than I need. It has a citrus scent mixed with a bit of sweetness.

    The mask has something that has a sandy feel (I’m guessing it’s the Pumice/Volcanic Rock) which I’m not sure is the best for my sensitive skin. The first time I used it, I think I scrubbed a bit too hard and I noticed my face was a little red after and I hadn’t even scrubbed for a minute. I think it’s just a bit too rough on my skin (even when I do it gently), so I will probably use this for the body instead.

    RATING: 2/5

    While the mask made parts of my face feel soft, it made other parts feel really dry. I’m sorry to give it such a low rating, but there are more affordable exfoliating enzyme masks out there that are also more gentle on my skin.

    Love,

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  • nude by nature makeup

    Nude by Nature | My Hits & Misses

    February 15, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Here are my Hits and Misses from Nude by Nature. Check out my other Hits & Misses posts on other brands:

    Check out my other Hits & Misses posts!

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

    SKINCARE || Eye Creams

    BRANDS || Bobbi Brown | Burt’s Bees | L’Oréal | Maybelline | NYX | TULA | Volition Beauty

    Before you read this post, please remember that we all have difference preferences and skin types. These are MY hits, misses and likes. You might love something I don’t like or dislike something I love.

    So, I received 6 products from Topbox Circle and I’ve tried them all out and here are my thoughts. First of all, I love the rose gold packaging of the products. The frosted glass of the foundation bottle is also beautiful.

    HITS

    Mattifying Pressed Setting Powder* – This mattifies and provides coverage nicely. It’s great to throw in the purse to touch up throughout the day.

    Matte Pressed Bronzer* – I was intimidated by the shade of this, but if you use the right brush, it will diffuse and blend it out beautifully.

    MISSES

    Sheer Glow BB Cream* – Similar to the foundation, this provided no coverage and just made me look very dewy.

    Luminous Sheer Liquid Foundation* (read my review) – This provided no coverage for me at all. It was like the BB Cream.

    Sheer Glow Colour Balm* – This was patchy and I don’t like the taste/smell of this on my lips.

    LIKES

    Perfecting Primer* (read my review) – This primer was okay. It wasn’t the worst, but also wasn’t the best.

    Liquid Foundation Brush* – I prefer using sponges, but this is a very nice brush and I would consider getting other brushes from Nude by Nature.

    If I were to buy anything, I would get some of the Nude by Nature brushes, and I would get the powder products again. I will be giving the liquid foundation and BB cream to a friend who likes sheer coverage.

    Have you tried Nude by Nature? What are your faves?

    Love,

    Products marked with * were sent to me for review.

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  • First Impressions with Selfkaire

    February 5, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    So, I was gifted this really cool new facial massager. It’s made of surgical grade steel and it’s unlike any facial massager I’ve seen.

    I’ve been using the Selfkaire tool for about a month and I really enjoy using it. I’ve mostly been using it on my face since I have an ice roller which is larger and therefore easier to use on the body, but the Selfkaire tool is nice to relieve tension and to use a little more pressure on sore muscles.

    You can use it on your face or body, on bare skin or over clothes. It just feels so nice and cooling on the face, especially the under eye area. I think I’ve noticed that my under eye bags aren’t as bad since I’ve been using it. Of course, it greatly depends on how much sleep I’ve had the night before as well. Unlike a jade roller however, I’ve noticed that I need to make sure to apply some type of serum or oil to help it move seamlessly across my face. Since this has no moving parts, it needs a bit of lubrication especially if you’re using it on your face, you don’t want it pulling on your skin.

    How to use: As little as 30 seconds per area a day or as much as you would like to recharge your skin and body. Can be used on bare skin, over clothing, face masks, or with your skincare routine. Pair with a serum, cream or facial oil for easy gliding. Remember to stay hydrated while detoxing. To clean, rinse off tool with gentle soap and dry off.

    Our IP-protected technology brings you an effective innovation on existing facial rollers. Combined with specially designed pins, our tools target acupressure points to help your body detox efficiently. Our surgical grade steel is great for all skin types, hypoallergenic and cooling on the skin!  

    Try on:

    – Puffiness
    – After a workout
    – Problem areas
    – For some TLC!

    Above statements have not been evaluated by Food and Drug Administration. This item is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

    RATING: 5/5

    It says it’s travel-friendly, but it’s got some weight to it, so I’m not sure I would ever carry it around in a purse or take it on a trip. It is quite expensive, but given that there’s no moving parts like other facial rollers and it’s not made of rose quartz or jade, it won’t break easily and will last a long time. Selfkaire gives you a 90 day return policy (if you don’t love it, you can return it easily) and it has a lifetime warranty.

    Have you tried facial massagers?

    Love,

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  • laneige lip sleeping mask

    Review | Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

    December 24, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m doing a review of the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask. I got a sample of the very popular Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask. I have been seeing it everywhere on IG.

    Lip Sleeping Mask has a softening balm texture that closely adheres to lips for quick absorption. Enriched with vitamin C and antioxidants, its Berry Mix Complex™ offers a nutritiously sweet and fragrant blend of raspberry, strawberry, cranberry, and blueberry extracts to indulge the senses. Its exclusive Moisture Wrap™ technology boasts hyaluronic acid and minerals to form a protective film over the lips to lock in moisture and active ingredients. 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.

    RATING: 5/5

    I can see why people love it so much; unlike Vaseline, it doesn’t absorb into your lips after a few hours. It has the consistency and smell of a balm (made me think of Lip Smackers lip balms), but the look of a gloss (without the stickiness). It made my lips look smooth and plump from the shine and even though it’s scented, it doesn’t taste like anything. I put it on a few hours before I went to bed, so I was wearing it for about 12 hours and when I woke up, I could still feel a bit of the balm on my lips. I could probably get 3-4 uses out of the little sample, so, depending on the frequency of use, I assume the pot will last a very long time and make it worth the price.

    Doing a bit of math…I got 7 uses out of the sample size, but I probably could’ve stretched it out to 10 if I used less. The full size pot is about 25 times as much as the sample, therefore the pot would last about 175-250 uses depending on how much you use each time. If you use this once a day, it should last at least 5 months (by my calculations…again, depends on how much you use).

    Update: I’ve had the tub for a year now and I’ve barely made a dent. I don’t use it every single day. There was also a month or two where I didn’t use it because I was trying other products.

    Have you tried the Lip Sleeping Mask yet?

    Love,

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