calissa Archives

Revisiting My 2019 Favourites

February 2, 2021

Hi Everyone!

I am revisiting last year’s favourites. There were some products I really enjoyed, but I don’t love them enough to repurchase. Others are favourites and I will repurchase again in the future. Keep reading to find out which products from my 2019 favourites made the list!

Check out my other posts revisiting my old favourites!

Revisiting My 2017 Favourites

Part 1 | Part 2

Revisiting My 2018 Favourites

Part 1 | Part 2

This year, I’ve taken a look at those “Revisiting” posts and reviewed them again. I’ve decided that every year, I will take a look at all of my favourites to see how my tastes change as I get older.

Revisiting My Old Beauty Favourites

January/February

Maybelline Lash Sensational Full Fan Effect Mascara (read my review)

Repurchase? Maybe.

CoverGirl LashBlast Volume Mascara (read my review)

Repurchase? Maybe.

Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder in 15 Light

Repurchase? Yes.

Smashbox Photo Finish Primerizer

Repurchase? Yes. I’ve bought it twice since I first tried it.

Lancôme Brow Powdery Shaping Pencil in 09 Soft Black

Repurchase? No.

March/April

Lancôme L’Absolu Lacquer Lip Gloss in 236 Pour Toujours

Repurchase? Yes.

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

Repurchase? Yes.

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water

Repurchase? Yes.

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil

Repurchase? No.

May/June

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder in Medium

Repurchase? No.

Sigma F30 Large Powder Brush

Repurchase? Yes.

Colourpop Super Shock Shadows

Repurchase? Probably not. I feel like buying too many of them would take up a lot of room.

Pixi On-the-Glow Multi-Use Moisture Stick*

Repurchase? No.

Laneige Lip Glowy Balm in Grapefruit

Repurchase? I would repurchase in a different flavour. I wasn’t a fan of the grapefruit. I would probably choose the Berry.

Jouer Essential Lip Enhancer Balm

Repurchase? Yes.

July/August

Bare Minerals Gen Nude Powder Blush in That Peach Tho

Repurchase? Yes.

Perricone MD No Lip Gloss Lip Gloss*

Repurchase? No.

Touch In Sol No Poreblem Primer

Repurchase? No.

Cinema Secrets Makeup Brush Cleaner

Repurchase? No.

Eczema Honey Nut-Free Skin-Soothing Cream*

Repurchase? Probably not.

Colourpop Brow Boss Gel in Clear

Repurchase? Yes.

September/October

Dolce & Gabbana 3 L’Imperatrice Eau De Toilette

Repurchase? Yes.

Goldfaden MD Bright Eyes*

Repurchase? Yes.

Sephora PRO Featherweight Powder Brush #91

Repurchase? Yes.

Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder

Repurchase? Yes.

November/December

Volition Beauty Strawberry-C Brightening Serum*

Repurchase? Yes.

Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Eye Crème

Repurchase? Maybe.

Good Molecules Ultra-Hydrating Facial Oil*

Repurchase? Yes.

Do you spot any of your favourites?

Love,

Products marked with * were sent to me for review or gifted.

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First Impressions with Australian Bodycare Tea Tree Oil Face Tonic

February 18, 2020

Hi Everyone!

Today, I’ll be reviewing Australian Bodycare’s Tea Tree Face Tonic. I received this complimentary from Calissa.

Tea Tree Oil prevents and inhibits the growth of unwanted bacteria while nourishing the skin. The face tonic restores the skin’s natural moisture balance and helps prevent skin problems by deep cleansing. It contains extract of Kakadu Plum which has a high level of antioxidant properties. The natural Tea Tree Oil prevents bacteria from clinging to the skin.

Ingredients: Aqua, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Glycerin, Triethyl Citrate, Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract, Sodium PCA, Saccharide Isomerate, Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil (0,5%), Allantoin, Lactic Acid, Tocopherol, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol, Linalool, Limonene

RATING: 4/5

I’ve been using the Face Tonic for a few weeks now and I’m enjoying it. It’s better than The Body Shop one because it doesn’t have alcohol or witch hazel in it (I think I’m allergic to witch hazel – read my blog post about it here). Instead of using it as a toner, I use it before my shower as a pre-cleanse because I’m not a huge fan of tea tree smell. I know I’m supposed to use it after cleansing, but it seems to be working for me. I’ve actually been using it on my face AND back because I’m unfortunately prone to bacne as well. It’s helped dry out my active breakouts on my back.

I would definitely consider trying their Tea Tree Oil Body Wash. I’ve used The Body Shop’s Tea Tree Oil Body Wash and that worked really well to keep my back clear.

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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15 Beauty Favourites I’ve Repurchased | 2020

February 14, 2020

Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m sharing makeup and skincare products that have become favourites of mine. Either I already have repurchased or plan to repurchase in the future.

Check out my 2018 list of beauty favourites

In no particular order, here are 15 of my beauty favourites:

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water – I love this primer water so much, that I actually bought 3 during a sale on Smashbox.ca! It’s one of the few products that I’ve bought backups.

Check out my blog post on buying beauty backups!

Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil Ultra Fine Shape & Define* – Love this brow pencil. Benefit is one of the few brands that carries brow products with more than 3 shades and also different undertones.

Colourpop Boss Brow Clear Gel – My friend recommended this brow gel and I love it. It doesn’t make your brows feel crunchy at all!

Bioderma Sensibio H₂0 Make Up Removing Micelle Solution – The Garnier and Bioderma Micellar Waters are my favourites. The Garnier one is cheaper, so I repurchase it more, but I do see why everyone loves the Bioderma one too.

Goldfaden MD Bright Eyes* – I think this would be a great eye cream for the spring/summer time for me. It was very nice and light, but wasn’t quite hydrating enough for Canadian winters.

Smashbox Photo Finish Primerizer – This is one of my favourite primers that keeps my dry skin hydrated throughout the day.

Good Molecules Pure Cold-Pressed Rosehip Seed Oil* – I have been loving facial oils for my dry skin and this one is a great one from Good Molecules.

Good Molecules Silicone-Free Priming Moisturizer* – I love that brands are coming out with primers without silicones. This one is a great 2-in-1 product.

Gummiband Hair Cords – I was originally gifted some hair cords, but I have since purchased more because I love them. Also, they’re a Canadian brand.

Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder – This is a beautiful powder to set your makeup.

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask – This is the only lip mask I’ve tried, so I can’t say it’s my favourite. It is a great lip mask that keeps my lips hydrated at night.

Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer – A favourite concealer of mine for spot concealing. It blends beautifully into the skin.

Clinique Even Better Eyes Dark Circle Corrector – I really enjoyed this eye cream. It made my under eyes feel smooth and hydrated. I also loved the metal applicator.

Rael Miracle Patches (read my review) – Love these patches!

Volition Strawberry-C Brightening Serum* (read my review) – Loved this serum!

What beauty favourites have you repurchased?

Love,

Products marked with (*) were gifted to me.

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Review | Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting Cleansing Gel

February 11, 2020

Hi Everyone!

Today, I’ll be reviewing another product I received from Calissa. An Alpha Beta Pore Perfecting Cleansing Gel by Dr. Dennis Gross. It’s my first time trying the brand.

This vegan formula contains Alpha Beta® acids which lift away dead skin cells and debris while toning and smoothing skin. Willow bark, Farnesol, and Barosma Betullina help remove impurities, wash away bacteria, and decongest pores, while Snow Ear Mushroom hydrates to maintain skin’s moisture balance. Dr. Gross hand selects each ingredient and combines it with the most efficient delivery system to ensure skin receives maximum skincare benefits from the rest of your regimen.

Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isethionate, Propanediol, Sodium Cocoamphoacetate, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Disteareth-75 IPDI, Glycereth-7 Caprylate/Caprate, Sodium Chloride, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Mandelic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Phytic Acid, Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, Citric Acid, Farnesol, Barosma Betulina Leaf Extract, Sodium PCA, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tremella Fuciformis (Mushroom) Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Bisabolol, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Butylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Alcohol, Sodium Phytate, Jasminum Officinale (Jasmine) Flower/Leaf Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Flower Extract, Polyglyceryl-3 Laurate, PEG-7 Glyceryl Cocoate, Sodium Hydroxide, Benzoic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol.

I enjoy gel cleansers, so I was interested in trying this especially since it’s soap-free, sulfate free, vegan, cruelty-free.

RATING: 3/5

It has a subtle scent that smells like aloe and a bit fruity/floral. It’s quite a thick cleanser. I have the tube and I always squeeze out too much. It’s a nice cleanser, but I will be honest and say I wouldn’t buy the full size. It’s quite expensive for a cleanser ($50 CAD for 225ml) especially when I squeeze out too much. I’d rather pay more for moisturizers, serums or eye creams.

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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First Impressions with Perricone No Foundation Serum Broad Spectrum SPF30

February 4, 2020

Hi Everyone!

Today, I’ll be reviewing a product I received from Calissa. It’s the No Foundation Serum from Perricone MD.

Perricone MD’s No Foundation Serum instantly softens imperfections and minimises the appearance of wrinkles and pores with Neuropeptides without settling into fine lines. A luxurious fluid texture leaves a semi-matte suede finish with a breathable second skin effect.

It’s really nice, the only thing about the one sold at Calissa is that it comes in 1 universal shade. The Perricone website has multiple shades, but it’s SPF20. I don’t know if the formulation is different or if it’s just a slightly lower SPF.

RATING: 3.5/5

It wore well and it looked like skin. It has a nice, soft matte finish. By hour six, it was breaking up a little bit. I set it with the Charlotte Tilbury powder. It’s really good for someone who has dry skin like me. I don’t know how it would work on someone with oily skin. It would probably start to break up a lot sooner. I have mostly dry skin, but I do get an oily t-zone. It didn’t look cakey around my nose which was great. I prefer a more dewy look which can be achieved by mixing in a liquid highlighter. I give this specific “universal” broad spectrum serum a lower rating. If I tried a shade that matched me, I might give a higher rating.

Perricone MD replied to my Instagram review saying: We have another formula, No Makeup Foundation (vs. Foundation Serum) that we think you may like better based upon this feedback!

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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First Impressions with Aromatherapy Associates

January 17, 2020

Hi Everyone!

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

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

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

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

*Natural Essential Oil Contents **Natural Plant Extracts

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

RATING: 4/5

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

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

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

Love,

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

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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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Sept/Oct 2019 Faves

October 29, 2019

Hi Everyone!

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

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

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

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

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

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

What products have you been loving lately?

Love,

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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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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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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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Review | Goldfaden MD Bright Eyes

September 13, 2019

Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m reviewing an eye cream that I was gifted by Calissa.

Calissa is a British independent, luxury beauty platform that prides itself on its edited selection of premium and niche brands.

They generously sent over the Goldfaden MD Bright Eyes.

Goldfaden MD Bright Eyes will help you fight the early signs of ageing that form around the eyes. Everything from dark circles to fine lines.

Soy Peptide and Rice Bran extract increase blood flow and hydration levels, helping to firm up the skin and reduce any swelling. Jojoba and Apricot Kernel Oil moisturises the skin to keep it soft and supple, whilst retaining elasticity. Seaweed extract promotes an even golden glow, and Organic Red Tea provides a powerful antioxidant effect to protect the skin.

Ingredients: Water, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Cetyl Alcohol, Candelilla/Jojoba/Rice Bran Polyglyceryl-3 Esters, Glyceryl Stearate, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Squalane, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate, Xanthan Gum, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Protein, Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Superoxide Dismutase, Chon-drus Crispus (Seaweed) Extract, Mica, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Tocopherol, Glyceryl Caprylate, Cellulose Gum, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Aspalathus Linearis (Red Tea) Leaf Extract

This eye cream is Gluten-Free, Vegetarian, Cruelty-Free, and contains no parabens, silicones or mineral oil.

One pump (or even half a pump) is more than enough for both under eyes.

I’ve had trouble in the past with my under eyes reacting to eye creams. Usually I’ll get a red spot or something. I’ve been using this for a month now and haven’t had any reactions. Yay! My under eyes feel hydrated and look brighter. Also, this eye cream doesn’t really smell like anything. Double yay!

RATING: 5/5

I love that it comes in a pump so that I don’t have to stick my finger into a pot or need a spatula.

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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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,
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