• sudtana bergamot coconut and sesame hair mask oil

    Review | Sudtana Bergamot, Coconut & Sesame Hair Mask Oil

    September 11, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today’s review is on Sudtana’s Bergamot, Coconut & Sesame Hair Mask Oil.

    Our hair mask is made from 100% natural and organic ingredients sourced from local Thai farmers.

    The bergamot, sesame, and coconut oils are cold-pressed so they retain all their nutrients.

    • Traditional Thai hair mask contains a mixture of bergamot, coconut and sesame oils in the perfect ratio
    • Strengthens your hair from the inside for more volume and bounce
    • Prevents premature graying
    • Nourishes, moisturizes, conditions and repairs heavy hair damage
    • Keeps your scalp clean, healthy and infection free which promotes natural hair growth
    • Nourishes and moisturizes dry, itchy and flaky scalps

    One thing I don’t love about the mask is the jar. I found it quite messy to open and pour out the oil. I transferred the oil over to an old bottle with a pump. This also helps me figure out how much I’m using each time and I don’t have to dip my finger or a spoon into the jar to get the product out. I have long hair, so I use two pumps. I massage it into my hair and wait 10-15 minutes before washing it out. Usually I use conditioner, but I skip that when I use the hair mask.

    My hair feels soft and smooth after using this hair mask. I usually prefer hair masks that have the consistency of conditioner because it’s less messy. It has a citrus-y scent from the bergamot (I don’t really smell the sesame or coconut). Since I have combo skin, my scalp can be both dry/itchy and oily at times.

    RATING: 3/5

    The hair mask is on the pricey side, but it should probably last a while. This is a nice hair oil mask and it’s great that it’s 100% natural and doesn’t have any added fragrances. In addition to the hair mask, Sudtana also sells other products that are all natural: facial oil, toner, mask, and body oil.

    Check out Sudtana Skincare’s Instagram!

    UPDATE: They’ve changed the packaging of the hair mask to a bottle with a pump!

    Love,

    *This product was sent to me by Sudtana.

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  • makeup brush dryer

    How I Clean My Makeup Brushes

    September 9, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m sharing what I do to clean my makeup brushes! I use a few different products: I have brush cleaner for a quick clean and then I also use a solid brush cleaner and a mat to get a deeper clean.

    For a quick clean, I’ve been using a brush cleaner. I have the Sephora one and the Cinema Secrets one. The Sephora one used to smell really nice, but it’s been a few years since I bought it and it just smells like cleaner now. The Cinema Secrets one has a vanilla scent which I like a lot more.

    For a deeper clean, I’ve been using the Sephora mini solid brush cleaner. Since I have the mini one, it doesn’t come in a tin, so I keep it in a little soy sauce bowl. I wet the brush and lightly swirl the brushes on the ‘soap’ until there’s no longer any colour coming off of brush. In the past, I’ve used baby shampoo and a mat from Amazon to make sure the inside is nice and clean. The mat has ridges so it gets inside the bristles without ruining your brushes. Either I lightly swirl the brush or wipe it back and forth against the ridges.

    To dry my brushes, I use a brush drying rack. I also like drying my brushes with my makeup drying tool (read my review) I got from Winners that spins the brushes to dry them faster and then I hang them on my drying rack until they’re fully dry. The drying tool sounds a bit gimmicky, but it does dry brushes really fast! The only problem with the drying tool – it doesn’t fit brush handles that aren’t tapered (like my Sephora or Sigma eye brushes). I have to stuff them into a smaller size or I just let those air dry.

    How do you clean your brushes?

    Love,

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  • perricone md no lip gloss

    Review | Perricone No Lip Gloss Lip Gloss

    September 4, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

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

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

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

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

    RATING: 5/5

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

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

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

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

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

    Have you tried products from Perricone?

    Love,

    Read More
  • physicians formula murmuru butter butter bronzer pan

    August 2019 Product Empties

    August 30, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

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

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

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

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

    Repurchase? No.

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

    Repurchase? Absolutely.

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

    Repurchase? Maybe.

    Picture taken when I first got it.

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

    Repurchase? Yes!

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

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

    What did you finish this month?

    Love,

    *Products were gifted to me.

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  • touch in sol no poreblem primer

    July/August 2019 Faves

    August 28, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Love,

    Products marked with * were gifted to me.

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  • volition beauty celery green cream hyaluronic acid + peptides

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

    August 26, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

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

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

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

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

    Skin Type: Oily

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

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

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

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

    RATING: 4/5

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

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

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

    Have you tried Volition Beauty?

    Love,

    *I was gifted this product by Volition Beauty.

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  • vii code under eye 02m oxygen masks

    50/50 | Under Eye Masks

    August 20, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    How do you wear under eye masks?

    Love,

    Read More
  • vii code under eye 02m oxygen masks

    First Impressions with VIIcode | #sponsored

    August 16, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

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

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

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

    BENEFITS

    Skin is instantly refreshed

    Minimize visible signs of aging around eyes

    Reduce fine lines and wrinkles effectively

    Instantly moisturize and soothe delicate under eye area

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

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

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

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

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

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

    RATING: 4/5

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

    Check out VIIcode on Instagram!

    Love,

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

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  • july 2019 beauty empties

    July 2019 Product Empties

    July 30, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    I have quite a few cleanser empties this month! I use several at a time (one for morning, one for night). I also switch them up to test different ones out for a bit so that I can post a quick review on Instagram. I also have a few makeup empties for you this month, keep reading to see what products I’d repurchase!

    Cosrx Low Ph Good Morning Gel Cleanser – I didn’t love the herbal smell of this cleanser. It cleansed well, but I’d rather use Cetaphil which is unscented.

    Repurchase? No.

    Pixi Glow Tonic Cleansing Gel* – This cleanser was okay, I tended to squeeze out a lot more than I needed because the cleanser was more liquid than other cleansers I’ve used. The scent of this cleanser reminded me of kitchen cleanser because it smelled like lemons.

    Repurchase? No.

    Youth to the People Superfood Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer (read my review) – Love this moisturizer! It’s clean at Sephora and has no added fragrance which is great for my sensitive skin.

    Repurchase? Absolutely!

    Holika Holika Pig-Nose Clear Black Head Massage Gel – I wouldn’t say this worked super well for blackheads, but in the beginning, it worked okay as a peeling gel for my nose. It would moisturize my nose and also get rid of some of the dead skin.

    Repurchase? Maybe.

    Holika Holika Golden Monkey Glamour Lip 3-Step Kit – I really enjoy this 3-step lip kit. It turns chapped lips into smooth, ready for lipstick lips. First, you exfoliate your lips and then put a lip mask on and follow up with some honey to moisturize. Personally, I could do without the honey. I’d rather just put some lip balm on my lips because the honey is so sticky.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Mizon Apple Smoothie Peeling Gel – I enjoyed this peeling gel. It sloughed off dead skin well and it was a good price for the amount. I’ve used others that work a little better, but this is a gentle one that’s inexpensive.

    Repurchase? Maybe.

    Rael Acne Healing Patch (read my review) – I love these!

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Lancôme Miracle Cushion Foundation in 025 Beige Naturel – I really enjoy this cushion foundation. It’s a lightweight, buildable coverage. The shade is a bit off though – it looks a bit orange sometimes, so I might have to find a better shade match.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Bobbi Brown Nude Finish Illuminating Setting Powder – This is a translucent pressed powder that’s supposed to give you a glow from within like the Hourglass Ambient powders. I’ve swatched the Hourglass ones before and they look beautiful, this Bobbi Brown one just looked like I had shimmer on my face.

    Repurchase? No.

    Catrice Light Illusion Loose Powder in Yellow Matt – I didn’t like this powder. I wanted to try a banana powder, but I prefer translucent powders.

    Repurchase? No.

    Wet N Wild Megaglo Highlighting Powder in Precious Petals (read my review) – This is a cult favourite for good reason. I was only able to get my hands on the shade Precious Petals which was too dark for my skintone, but it was still beautiful. I used it a lot as an eyeshadow instead because it was just a bit too golden for me.

    Repurchase? Yes, in a different shade.

    Love,

    items marked with * were gifted to me.

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  • eczema honey skin-soothing cream nut-free

    First Impressions with Eczema Honey Nut-Free Skin-Soothing Cream

    July 23, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing the Nut-Free Skin-Soothing Cream from Eczema Honey. I found out about them on Instagram and really wanted to try their cream since I have eczema.

    I have a prescribed cortisone cream that I use, but since it’s a steroid cream, I don’t want to use it too often because it can thin the skin. I wanted to find something that didn’t have any steroids that would help soothe my skin.

    Eczema Honey generously sent me their 4 oz tub of the Skin-Soothing Cream. I chose the nut-free one because sometimes I find the smell of almond oil a bit too overpowering and I didn’t know how much they use. So the nut-free option was the safest choice for me.

    Eczema Honey Nut-Free uses a blend of natural ingredients like Beeswax and Pure Honey for their moisturizing and anti-bacterial properties. A blend of grapeseed oil and sunflower oil act as emollients and deliver additional antioxidants into the skin. 

    Storage: Eczema Honey should be stored in a cool, dry spot. In warmer areas, the product may melt. Many customers store their jars in the bathroom, night stand, cabinet, or changing table. Jars do not require refrigeration but can be refrigerated for a super cooling effect.

    To soothe and cool: Rub a dime-sized amount into the skin’s affected area 1-3 times a day. Add water or aloe-based lotion on top if desired.

    As a mask: Apply a thicker layer for a 20-minute mask, wash with a clean and warm towelette for a moisturized and smooth finish.

    As a moisturizer: Gently massage into dry areas of the skin until only a thin protective layer forms without too much excess product.

    Additional uses: to take off makeup, as a lip balm, for providing deep hydration and moisture to skin.

    RATING: 5/5

    I was smelling it from the tub, and I have to say that it didn’t really smell like honey to me. But, once I applied it to the skin, I could smell the honey and a bit of a floral scent as well (maybe the sunflower oil).

    It says you don’t have to, but you can refrigerate for a more soothing effect. I decided to store it in the fridge since it’s been so hot lately and I want it to keep for as long as possible.

    You can use the cream to soothe a spot, use it as an everyday moisturizer, makeup remover or a leave-on mask for 20 minutes. Since it is a bit pricey, I think I would only use it to soothe flare ups. Since there’s obviously honey in it, it stays tacky after applying it.

    I did a patch test on my arm to make sure I wasn’t allergic to anything and I didn’t have any reactions, so I decided to try it out. At the moment, I don’t have an eczema flare up, but I had a bit of heat rash on my knee. I put a very light layer on before bed. During the night, I wasn’t itchy at all and by  morning, it had improved the redness and inflammation. Another time, my arm was itchy and I put some of the cream on and I realized later that it had stopped itching.

    I am really impressed by the skin-soothing cream and I’m definitely interested in trying out other Eczema Honey products.

    Have you heard of eczema honey? Do you suffer from eczema or psoriasis?

    Love,

    *I was sent this product for review

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  • anhyd organics first impressions review

    First Impressions with ANHYD Organics

    July 19, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    **Note: The website is no longer available and the Instagram account has been inactive for a year.**

    Today I’m reviewing two products that I was sent from ANHYD Organics.

    ANHYD Organics (Founded in 2017) – All organic, vegan skincare bursting with essential nutrients; sealed with nature’s secrets to beautiful skin.

    Free from harmful toxins, ANHYD Organics healing properties nourish body and soul working to rejuvenate skin cells, hydrate skin and restore optimum balance. 

    Derived from the term Anhydrous, the essence of ANHYD Organics is to filter out impurities, ensuring our ingredients are never spoiled thus preserving the organic properties in their purest form.

    Organic Rose Water Facial Toner

    Wipe away problem skin to reveal a luminous glow.

    Restore harmony and maintain optimal skin pH balance with the Organic Rose Water Facial Toner. An Anti-inflammatory healing solution for acne, dermatitis and eczema. Essential ingredients of Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, Natural Rose, Flower Water, Certified Organic Witch Hazel and Grape Seed Extract combine to create equilibrium.

    RATING: 5/5

    I’m personally not a huge fan of rose and I also think I’m allergic to witch hazel (read my post). So, I gave the toner to my mom to try. She enjoys rose-scented products. My mom has tested it out and she loves the rose. It has the perfect amount where it smells like rose, but doesn’t smell old lady-ish. After cleansing, she uses the toner to remove any remaining makeup that she missed and then applies her moisturizer. She is really enjoying the toner because it doesn’t feel tacky after applying. She said that her face feels nice and refreshed after using the toner.

    Organic Facial Moisturizer

    Rejuvenate uneven skin tone and diminish fine lines, scars and dark marks with our Organic Facial Moisturizer. A silky formulation that is perfect as a makeup primer and protection from the elements. Discover all day hydration for normal skin. Filled with essential vitamins of Hydrating Algae, Shea Butter, Avocado Oil, Macadamia Seed Oil, Chamomile and Lavender Oil, Vitamin A, C, E and B3. A conditioning formula that will revitalise skin, regenerate skin tissue and hydrate skin.

    RATING: 5/5

    This moisturizer has a very light scent that doesn’t linger which is great for me. I really like the light texture of it. I’ve been mixing this with my facial oil and my face feels hydrated and dewy. Initially, it’s tacky for a bit, but eventually dries down. My skin feels so smooth after using this.

    As someone with dry skin, I think it’s great as a makeup primer. For those with oily skin, it might be too slippery since it’s so hydrating. Foundation and concealer layer on top of it nicely. It reminds me of the Sonia Roselli Water Balm because it’s a moisturizer that can double as a makeup primer (read my review). I don’t think it would necessarily help prolong makeup wear, but it definitely primes the skin for a smooth canvas.

    I’m impressed by these two products from this new skincare brand.

    Have you heard of ANHYD Organics?

    Love,

    Read More
  • loreal brow stylist boost and set tinted brow gel

    Review | L’Oréal Brow Stylist Boost & Set Volumizing Brow Mascara

    July 16, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing the L’Oréal Brow Stylist Boost & Set Volumizing Brow Mascara in Dark Brunette. I originally bought this because I thought it was the one that Kathleen Lights said was one of her faves. I remembered her saying ‘brow stylist’ and bought the one I saw at the drugstore. It turns out that she likes the Brow Stylist Plumper. The plumper one has a similar brush to the Benefit Gimme Brow while this brow mascara has one of the skinniest brow brushes I’ve ever seen.  Since it was from the drugstore and I couldn’t return it, I tried it out.

    The art of brow made easy. Our 1st gel mousse formula easily glides onto brows to boost volume and set for a natural to thicker look. Designed with an angled skinny brush to style brow hairs and for precise application. All day wear. Ophthalmologist tested. Suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. Available in 4 shades.

    It’s more expensive (when you work out cost per mL) than the Anastasia Brow Gel.

    RATING: 3/5

    The Dark Brunette shade was good shade for my dark brows. It kept my brows in place well, but they felt crunchy. It never rained when I wore it, so I can’t say how waterproof it was, but when I used setting spray, it never ran down my face. Also, it didn’t flake either (even though it was crunchy).

    Personally, I prefer other brow gels like the Colourpop Boss Brow Gel, Diorshow Bold Brow or the Benefit Gimme Brow. Before I retired the Bold Brow, I did a side-by-side comparison and it just felt waxy and crunchy compared to the Bold Brow. See the brush size difference in the picture below:

    Brow Stylist (left), Bold Brow

    I did really enjoy that the brush of the L’Oreal brow gel was so skinny. You can also use it to fill in your brows like you would with a pencil or a brush because it has such a thin brush. I’ve currently replaced it with the Charlotte Tilbury Legendary Brows.

    What are your fave drugstore brow products?

    Love,

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  • jouer essential lip enhancer conditioning lip treatment balm

    Review | Jouer Essential Lip Enhancer Conditioning Lip Treatment

    July 12, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m writing about the Jouer Essential Lip Enhancer Conditioning Lip Treatment. Tati mentioned it in one of her videos saying she used to buy it all the time so I decided to try it since it’s a translucent pink shade. Tati recommends a lot of beautiful lip products, but because we don’t have the same skin tone, the shades she loves don’t always suit me. I bought this balm during the Sephora VIB sale in May and *spoiler alert* I absolutely love it!

    A refreshing and hydrating translucent light pink lip treatment with a soft rose scent.

    This ultra-rich lip moisturizer nurtures and conditions your lips with the help of Maxi-Lip™, Vitamin E, Shea Butter, and Jojoba Seed Oil. These good-for-you ingredients are incorporated in a smooth silky formula that protects lips from environmentally damaging elements while providing lasting hydration.

    RATING: 5/5

    I don’t normally like rose-scented products, but this is a very subtle scent. It looks beautiful alone or as a topper for your lipstick. It’s glossy, but not overly sticky. I did a swatch on my arm, but it just looks clear, so I won’t bother posting a picture. I wiped it off with a tissue and it doesn’t feel sticky on my arm at all. You know when you swatch lip gloss on your arm and you need makeup remover or something to get rid of the stickiness? It doesn’t do that, although it does feel smooth from the oils of the balm. It has a bit of a taste, so I would avoid licking your lips.

    I will definitely be repurchasing this one in the future.

    Have you tried the Jouer balm?

    Love,

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  • youth to the people kale + spinach green tea hyaluronic acid green tea spinach cleanser

    First Impressions with Youth to the People

    July 9, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    During the Sephora sale, I purchased the Youth Mini Travel Duo which includes a mini of the Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser and the Superfood Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer. I’ve seen Youth to the People all over Instagram and finally decided to try it to see if it’s worth the hype.

    With 100% vegan ingredients, YTTP is a clean brand at Sephora.

    Clean at Sephora is formulated without: Sulfates SLS and SLES, parabens, formaldehydes, formaldehyde-releasing agents, phthalates, mineral oil, retinyl palmitate, oxybenzone, coal tar, hydroquinone, triclosan, triclocarban. All skincare, hair, and makeup brands with the Clean Seal have less than one percent of synthetic fragrances.

    Superfood Antioxidant Cleanser

    A daily green juice cleanse for your face with cold-pressed antioxidants to remove makeup and prevent build-up in pores, while keeping skin’s pH balanced.

    RATING: 4.5/5

    It makes my face feel really clean. I’ve been trying to use it only twice a week at the most since it’s so cleansing. Would I repurchase the full-sized? Possibly. While it is a great cleanser, it’s also quite expensive for the bottle that you get. I do like that the full size comes with a pump, so it’d be a nice reusable bottle for hand soap or something.

    Superfood Hyaluronic Acid Moisturizer

    A multifunction, lightweight face cream loaded with superfoods—kale, spinach, and green tea—and hyaluronic acid to moisturize skin.

    RATING: 5/5

    I really enjoyed the moisturizer! I like that the smell isn’t too strong and doesn’t linger. My face feels nice and hydrated. I’ve been using it day and night mixed with my facial oil and I think I would definitely buy a full size pot of this cream.

    I am definitely interested in trying out more products from Youth to the People. I love that it’s clean and also they products come in glass containers which are so useful to reuse!

    What are your faves from Youth to the People?

    Love,

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  • almay make them jelly hi-lite illuminator vs nyx a bit jelly gel illuminator

    This or That | Almay Make Them Jelly Hi-Lite vs. NYX A Bit Jelly Gel Illuminator

    July 5, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m comparing two different jelly highlighters. These were both gifted to me and I thought I would do a review comparing the two. Jelly highlighters are interesting, but they’re not great for every day use since the shimmer is a bit chunky (for my liking). I would say this jelly is good for a festival/unicorn/halloween look. Keep reading to find out which one I prefer!

    Almay Make Them Jelly Hi-Lite in 24K Dreams

    This gorgeous jelly highlighter with an addictively bouncy texture gives your skin a dewy, holographic glow that’s utterly irresistible.

    There are 2 shades available.

    from left: 24K Dreams 004, Unicorn Light 003

    Both of these highlighters are fun shades – yellow gold and pink. Although once you apply it, it’s not as pink as it looks in the tub. It’s like a sheer, jelly glitter. I’m not a huge fan of this one because when I press my finger into it, the jelly breaks up and crumbles (for lack of a better word). I’ve noticed that the gold one has a firmer texture whereas the pink one tends to crumble more.

    NYX A Bit Jelly Gel Illuminator in Luminous

    Dip right into our new A Bit Jelly Gel Illuminator. Available in three shades swimming in sparkles, this jelly-like formula feels and looks seriously amazing. Just scoop some up with your finger and pat the water-based gel onto the face or body. It slips on like a dream as you smooth it onto the skin, leaving behind a lightweight wash of radiance—that glistens even after it dries down! Gettin’ a bit jelly right now? Same, this dewy glow is lit.

    There are 3 shades available

    From top: Opalescent, Bronze, Luminous

    I have the shade Luminous and it’s a champagne shade with blue glitter.  This highlighter is a water-based product which washes away easily with water (which makes me think it might just melt down your face if you sweat). I would suggest spraying any setting spray before applying this highlighter. The texture of it is nice – when I dip my finger into it, it doesn’t separate or become chunky. It’s almost like a putty because it moves with my finger which is a good thing because then you don’t get any jelly chunks on your face when you apply it.

    Luminous (top), 24K Dreams, Unicorn Light

    WINNER: NYX A Bit Jelly Gel Illuminator

    I think between these two jelly highlighters, I prefer the NYX A Bit Jelly Gel Illuminator. Both highlighters jiggle when you tap the containers. You can feel the jelly bounce back. I think jelly highlighters are fun, but I don’t think I would purchase any myself. I would consider trying jelly eyeshadows because I’ve seen a few on Instagram and they’re so pigmented. Obviously jelly highlighters wouldn’t be pigmented because you’d have a coloured streak on your face, but it feels like I’m just putting wet glitter on my face. I’m also not a fan of glittery highlighters and would prefer a liquid highlighter.

    Have you tried jelly products?

    Love,

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