• Reviewing My 2023 & 2024 Beauty Expenses

    November 18, 2024

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing my beauty expenses for 2023 and 2024. It’s already mid-November, I didn’t buy anything from the recent Sephora sale. I don’t think I plan to buy anything beauty-related for the rest of the year. If I do, I’ll update the graphs and table.

    Check out my previous beauty expenses posts:

    2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022

    My 2019 Beauty Budget

    Categories20172018201920202021202220232024TOTAL SPENT (from 2017-24)
    Makeup1300160011007025065090105070
    Miscellaneous250––160304003050920
    Skincare45050070023090550300902910
    Total20002100180046037016004261508900
    Planned Purchases21%50%70%85%78%40%75%55%60% on average
    Impulse Purchases79%50%30%15%22%60%25%45%40% on average

    I didn’t buy many products in 2023 and 2024, so instead of my Top 6 Most Expensive Purchases, I will do Top 3.

    2023 Top 3 Most Expensive Purchases

    1. Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer – $49
    2. Peace Out Acne Mega 2.0 (60 Acne Healing Dots, 1 travel pouch) – $48
    3. Kiehl’s Centella Facial Sensitive Facial Cleanser – $30

    The Laura Mercier concealer was a repurchase. It’s great for covering up blemishes. I didn’t care for the Peace Out Acne Healing Dots. I prefer the Rael patches (see my pimple patch comparison post). The Kiehl’s cleanser is a nice cleanser, but I don’t know if it does anything special. I just got it to top up my order for free shipping.

    2024 Top 3 Most Expensive Purchases

    1. Dear, Klairs Midnight Blue Calming Cream – $37
    2. Takuminowaza Japan High Class Stainless Steel Nail Clippers G-1114 – $27
    3. Isntree Onion Newpair Sunscreen – $23

    I haven’t tried the Dear, Klairs cream or the Isntree sunscreen. I know I really like the Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel, so I thought I’d try the Onion Newpair sunscreen. I’m still using the Hyaluronic Acid one. The Takuminowaza nail clippers are nice. I heard about them from my sister who mentioned that they’re in a reddit thread called BuyItForLife (For practical, durable and quality made products that are made to last). I decided to try them and they’re so much quieter than the other ones I have because they’re sharper. They’re big and you barely need any pressure to squeeze the clippers to trim your nails.

    Love,

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  • Reviewing My 2022 Beauty Expenses

    August 29, 2023

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing my beauty expenses for 2022. I know we’re more than half way through 2023, but I realized that I forgot to do last year’s beauty expenses.

    Check out my previous beauty expenses posts:

    2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021

    My 2019 Beauty Budget

    Categories201720182019202020212022TOTAL SPENT (from 2017-22)
    Makeup130016001100702506504970
    Miscellaneous250––16030400840
    Skincare450500700230905502520
    Total20002100180046037016008330
    Planned Purchases21%50%70%85%78%40%–
    Impulse Purchases79%50%30%15%22%60%–

    As you can see from the graphs, I started spending money on beauty products again. There was a significant decrease in 2020 and 2021 because of COVID. The majority of the skincare purchases were the Kiehl’s Ultimate Strength Hand Salve and First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser. I’ve been lucky enough to receive skincare products to review. So I haven’t bought many skincare products for my face, but somehow I spent $550 on things like hand cream, body scrubs and pimple patches.

    My 6 most expensive beauty purchases of 2022:

    1. Sephora Collection PRO 8-piece Brush Set – $92.80
    2. Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerize Cream Eyeshadow Trio – $70.20
    3. Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm (Value size) – $52
    4. Uoma Beauty Say What?! Foundation – $50
    5. Youth to the People Dream Eye Cream with Vitamin C and Ceramides – $49.60
    6. Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam Palette – $48.80

    After seeing how much I spent last year on makeup and skincare, I’m actually quite surprised. It didn’t feel like I spent that much on beauty products. Since we’re in August 2023, I can say that I’ve actually tried my 6 most expensive purchases and I like all of them. I think I’m starting to prefer powder or cream foundations though, so I probably wouldn’t repurchase the Uoma foundation. I like all of the other products though. I haven’t opened the Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm, but I’ve used it in the past. I really like the Sephora Collection PRO brushes. They’re so soft and fluffy. The ABH eyeshadow palette is a classic, I still need to use it more. I haven’t used the Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerize shadows as much as I’d like. I chose more smokey shades and I’ve mostly been going out during the day and prefer to do a natural eye look in the morning.

    I’m interested to see my beauty expenses for this year. I think I’ve bought more clothes than beauty products, but we’ll see what happens in the next few months when the Sephora sale and Black Friday/Cyber Monday sales come around lol.

    Love,

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  • black friday sales

    Haul | 2022 Black Friday and Holiday Sales

    December 8, 2022

    Hi everyone!

    Today, I’m sharing what I got from Black Friday and Holiday sales! In the past two years, it seems like I do the most damage in October and November because I just can’t resist a Black Friday sale!

    I’m not going to put the prices up because I’d rather not see the grand total of what I spent during the sales, but I will include the discount.

    Sephora – 20% off

    • First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub with 10% AHA
    • bareMinerals Original Foundation Broad Spectrum SPF15 in Light

    Shiseido – 30% off when you spend $200

    • Eyelash Curler (comes with replacement pad)
    • 2 x Eyelash Curler Pads (2 replacement pads per pack, so I got 4 in total lol)
    • Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Concealer in 202 Light
    • Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Concealer in 203 Light
    • Overnight Wrinkle Resisting Cream (for my mom)

    Kiehl’s – 25% off

    • Centella Sensitive Facial Cleanser
    • 2 x Ultimate Strength Hand Salve
    Bottom left is Blondo, middle is Skechers

    Mejuri – 20% off when you spend $150 (I believe this is the only sale they have throughout the year)

    • Twist Ring in 14k White Gold
    • 2x Single Mini Hoop in 14k White Gold

    Last year, I bought the Single Mini Hoops and I’ve been wearing them ever since. I decided to get 2 more for my second piercings. To bump it up to $150, I also got the Twist ring. Last year, I got the Braided ring. I haven’t worn it much though, because it looked a bit plain on its own. So now I have the twist one to stack. Their diamond huggies are super cute too.

    Old Navy – 50% off code for being a Navyist Rewards Member

    • Creaseless Hair Clips 4-pack (Tortoise shell/Coral pink)
    • Dynamic Fleece Pullover Hoodie in Icelandic Mineral
    • Vintage Long-Sleeve Sweatshirt in Inkwell
    • Printed Flannel Pajama Pants in Red Fair Isle

    La Vie En Rose – 2 for 1

    • Soft plush Robe in Lilac Cloud
    • Soft Plush Robe in Black Buffalo Plaid

    Naturalizer – 30% off

    • Blondo Skylar Waterproof Combat Boot in Black Suede (wide)

    I have wide feet unfortunately and I’ve realized it’s ridiculous to put bandaids on my pinky toes when I wear my winter boots. I was on the hunt for a nice pair. I got these Blondo boots in wide. I read a few reviews, but it’s hard to decide based on a few website reviews, so I just decided to try them. They were definitely not wide. I know Blondo is known for having a narrow fit, but I thought maybe these would be okay. These were probably what would be considered a regular fit for other brands. I was wearing regular, thin socks and while my foot fit into them, they would be super uncomfortable. You could also see the shape of my foot in the boot and it just didn’t look nice. Unfortunately, they only accept returns online which means they charge $8 to ship it back to them (taking it off your refund).

    The Shoe Company – 30% off?

    • Skechers On-The-Go Glacial Ultra-Woodlands Wide Winter Boot in Black Suede

    Skechers is a brand that I own quite a few running shoes from. Even with their regular fit, they’re very comfortable. I recently purchased a wide fit sneaker and they are super comfy for me. So I got these knowing that Skechers is a brand that I like.

    Spanx – 20% off for regular priced items, I think. I got something from the sale section, so it was 50% off

    • Spotlight on Lace Regular Waist Brief in Vintage Rose
    Clockwise from top left (gray): ribbed cotton, cotton cable lace, pointelle high cut, cotton eyelash lace, period underwear

    Aerie online order – 30% off sale or something

    • AerieREAL Period Underwear (I will be posting a review on this once I’ve tried it out)
    • AF Super Cropped Scoop Neck Cami in Black
    • Wrap One Piece Swimsuit in Black
    • High Neck Henley Tank Top in White

    I bought the swimsuit because I realized I sold all of my swimsuits on Poshmark. Even though I haven’t gone swimming/to the beach in 6 years lol, I thought it’d be good to have one just in case. I was disappointed when I tried it on and ended up returning it. I don’t think I have a particularly long torso, but the body was so short (it was cutting into my butt). I can’t imagine a taller person wearing it. Even though you can adjust the straps to make it a bit longer, it would make the bust lower and the wrap part just wasn’t flattering to begin with…It wasn’t giving any lift to the girls. When I was thinking about buying it, I was a bit worried about whether it would stretch from wrapping it all the time, but I wanted to try it anyway since they have free returns. Back to the drawing board for this one. 

    Aerie in-store purchase – 10 for $40

    • Pointelle High Cut Bikini Underwear (high cut, peek of cheek)
    • Cotton Cable Lace Boybrief Underwear (regular rise, no cheek peek)
    • Cotton Eyelash Lace Boybrief Underwear (low rise, no cheek peek)
    • Ribbed Cotton Boybrief Underwear (low rise, no cheek peek)

    I have previously purchased Aerie underwear a few years back and the boybrief underwear were really stretchy and too big. I got the same size in all of the underwear I bought and it just didn’t fit right. I’ve had time to try all of the underwear I bought and they all fit nicely. The Cotton Cable Lace ones are my favourite. A lot of my underwear are low rise and I’ve realized how much I like a regular rise.

    With all of the online orders, I managed to get about $20 cashback from Rakuten.

    (not sponsored or anything, but this is a referral link to sign up. You get $30 if you use the link and I will too).

    Did you pick up anything during the Black Friday sales?

    Love,

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  • Haul | November 2022 Sephora VIB Sale

    November 23, 2022

    Hi Everyone!

    I know it’s a bit late, but I’m sharing what I bought from the Sephora Holiday Sale!

    I picked up a few things in store on the first day:

    Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam Eyeshadow Palette – I know I’m super slow to buy this, but I’ve been debating which eyeshadow I wanted to get for years. I finally decided to get this one.

    TULA Prime of Your Life Smoothing & Firming Treatment Primer (check out my TULA Hits & Misses post)

    First Aid KP Bump Eraser Body Scrub with 10% AHA

    Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Custom Finish Powder Foundation (left – 220 Linen, right – 250 Sand)

    And I ordered more online after browsing:

    Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Custom Finish Powder Foundation in 250 Sand – I bought the shade 220 Linen for my mom during a sale last year. She hadn’t started using it until recently. She realized it was too light for her so she gave it to me and asked me to order a darker shade. So I chose 250 Sand. Comparing the two, 250 Sand looks lighter than 220 Linen – 220 Linen looks more orange. So I ended up returning 250 Sand and getting 310 Silk which looks a bit darker.

    Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm Makeup Remover (variety size – 200mL)

    Yves Saint Laurent Libre Eau De Parfum – I wanted to try a new perfume and I sprayed this one in person when I went to the store. Apparently I wasn’t paying attention because I sprayed the Eau de Toilette in the store. There was barely anything left in the bottle, so I didn’t notice the colour was different. I don’t know why, but I didn’t spray it on me and just decided to purchase it. This was a mistake lol. The Eau de Parfum is too sweet for my liking. It gave me a headache. I went back to the store and sprayed the Eau de Toilette, but it was a bit too powdery for my liking. I actually preferred the Gucci Bloom one, but I’m going to keep browsing until I make a decision.

    2 x Morphe Highlight & Contour Beauty Sponges 

    What did you pick up during the sale?

    Love,

    Read More

  • First Impressions with BeautySense.ca | Sponsored

    November 18, 2022

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’ll be reviewing products I received from BeautySense.ca! This post was sponsored by BeautySense.ca and the products above were sent to me for review, but all opinions are my own. The links below are NOT affiliate links. 

    Beautysense.ca is a Canadian-owned website that sells beauty and cosmetics products.

    We have deep roots within the beauty industry operating successful spas and salons in Canada.

    BeautySense.ca was launched in 2013 with a vision of providing Canadians with a trusted and reliable source of beauty products while contributing the same customer service and education found in our spas and salons.

    BeautySense.ca currently offers well over 4000 quality products from top Canadian and International brands and we continue to add new brands every month.  We cater to each of you, our customer, to reach a goal of 100% satisfaction.

    They sell a wide variety of skincare, home, bath & body, makeup and wellbeing products.  

    Free shipping on all orders within Canada, no minimum!!

    They have promotions every now and then. A free gift with purchase, discounts on certain brands, etc.

    I don’t know if they have sales throughout the year, but I have signed up for the newsletter to email me. So I will update this post if I am notified of any sales throughout the year.

    They have a loyalty program. Receive 1 point for every $1 you spend

    100 pts = $5 | 200 pts = $10 | 500 pts = $25 | 900 pts = $45  

    BeautySense let me choose the products to try out so I went with a 3 products from brands I’ve never tried before and 2 products from amika (love the scent of their dry shampoo and soulfood nourishing hair mask).

    Colorescience: Sunforgettable® Total Protection™ Face Shield Flex SPF 50 | $63

    A lightweight mineral sunscreen with tinted color coverage immediately evens skin tone for a flawless look. Available in four uniquely flexible shades for a range of skin tones, it features innovative, tone-adapting pigments that offer medium, buildable colour coverage with a natural finish.

    This is drier than I thought it would be. I think I could’ve tried the medium shade instead of fair because it’s very white on me. For sunscreen, I usually just squeeze it out onto my hand and then apply to my face, but I think maybe it’s better to do a little at a time for this one. Instead of trying the medium tinted shade, I think I would just try the original (non-tinted) one next time.

    Amika: The Wizard Detangling Primer | $34.50

    A weightless, multi-benefit priming spray that detangles, cuts blow dry time and protects against thermal and environmental damage. Leaves hair smooth, soft and radiant.

    This detangled my hair so quickly and my hair felt smooth and sleek. It looked shiny and smelled really nice. It has the same scent as the normcore conditioner and dry shampoo.

    Amika: Normcore Signature Conditioner | $26

    Boost hydration, softness and shine daily with this everyday conditioner, loaded with vitamins and antioxidants.

    I used to love the Perk Up Dry Shampoo, but I stopped buying products with aerosol cans. Since this has the same scent description, I figured this would be the same and it is. At the time, the shampoo was out of stock, but I would definitely get the shampoo. My hair is healthy because I don’t dye it and I don’t use styling tools all the time. So I usually stick to buying shampoos and conditioners from the drugstore. I have bought a few expensive shampoos and conditioners and I use them every couple weeks when I feel like a pick-me-up.

    jane iredale blush
    Blinc: Ultravolume Tubing Mascara

    Jane Iredale: PurePressed Blush in Barely Rose | $41

    A silky, easy-glide pressed blush that builds like a powder and blends like a cream for seamless, long-lasting color and a fresh, healthy glow.

    The blush is a pretty pink shade that looks like a natural blush to my cheeks. I did notice that the blush had faded by the 6 hour mark though. I purposely applied more blush than usual just to see how it wore throughout the day. So, by the 6 hour mark, it was no longer noticeable and by the 9 hour mark, it was definitely gone. I used a cotton pad to wipe the makeup and no blush came off.  

    Blinc: Ultravolume Tubing Mascara – Black | $32

    Whether your daily activities take you from the office, to your sweaty workout then out to dinner, Blinc Tubing Mascara Ultra Volume will make your lashes look as good in the evening as they did when you first applied it in the morning.

    I have typical Asian lashes that don’t keep a curl for very long so I was surprised at how well this mascara kept the curl. I was wearing the mascara for about 9 hours and my lashes were still curled. They might’ve gone down a little bit, but they definitely had a curve to them still (not sticking straight down). I did notice a few flakes on my eyelid and under eye by the 9 hour mark. I think I may have touched my eye at some point. The mascara removes easily with warm water. I would say to remove the mascara with warm water before removing the rest of your makeup. So the tubes don’t get all over your face.  

    They have a number of brands that I’ve never tried, so I’d be interested in buying those in the future and reviewing them on my blog.

    Some products I have on my wishlist:

    • Amika: Normcore Signature Shampoo
    • Joico: Moisture Recovery Shampoo
    • Joico: Moisture Recovery Conditioner
    • Colorescience: Sunforgettable EnviroScreen Protection Brush-On Shield SPF 50
    • Colorescience: Sunforgettable Total protection Face Shield SPF 50-Original

    Love,

    Read More
  • cleansing balms

    This or That | Cleansing Balms

    November 3, 2022

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m comparing the eight cleansing balms I’ve tried so far. I have tried two others, but they are no longer available.

    Previous posts on cleansing balms:

    This or That | Banila Co vs Heimish

    This or That | Clinique vs Pixi (no longer available)

    Glow Recipe

    These are the cleansing balms I will be comparing (in alphabetical order):

    • Banila Co. Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm (Original)
    • belif Aqua Bomb Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm*
    • Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm
    • Glow Recipe Papaya Sorbet Smoothing Enzyme Cleansing Balm
    • Heimish All Clean Balm
    • The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm*
    • Juno & Co (Juno Skin) Clean 10 Cleansing Balm*
    • Youth to the People Superberry Dream Cleansing Balm*

    Ingredients for the cleansing balms:

    Banila Co. Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm (Original)

    Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, PEG-10 Isostearate, Synthetic Wax, Onsen-Sui, Phenoxyethanol, Butylene Glycol, Lithospermum Erythrorhizon Root Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Fragrance, Ethylhexylglycerin, Water, 1,2-Hexanediol, Bambusa Vulgaris Leaf/Stem Extract, Aspalathus Linearis Extract, Angelica Archangelica Root Extract, Malpighia Glabra (Acerola) Fruit Extract, Polydiethyleneglycol Adipate/IPDI Copolymer, Acrylates/Ammonium Methacrylate Copolymer, Acrylates/Methoxy PEG-15 Methacrylate Copolymer

    belif Aqua Bomb Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm*

    Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Peg-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Peg-10 Isostearate, Polyethylene, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Water, Butylene Glycol, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil, Caprylyl Glycol, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Juniperus Mexicana Oil, Lavandula Hybrida Oil, Mentha Arvensis Leaf Oil, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Leaf Oil, Myristica Fragrans (Nutmeg) Extract, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Methylpropanediol, Althaea Officinalis Root Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Stellaria Media (Chickweed) Extract, Alchemilla Vulgaris Leaf Extract, Equisetum Arvense Leaf Extract, Urtica Dioica (Nettle) Leaf Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Nepeta Cataria Extract, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Leaf Extract, Baptisia Tinctoria Root Extract, Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract

    Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm

    Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate, Polyethylene, Peg-5 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Water, Tocopherol, Phenoxyethanol

    Glow Recipe Papaya Sorbet Smoothing Enzyme Cleansing Balm

    Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Sorbitan Oleate, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Polyethylene, Aqua/Water/Eau, Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Seed Oil, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Papain, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, Fragaria Ananassa (Strawberry) Fruit Extract, Alkanna Tinctoria Root Extract, Capsicum Annuum Fruit Extract, Maltodextrin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Levulinic Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Metabisulfite

    Heimish All Clean Balm

    Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Polyethylene, PEG-8 Isostearate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Tocopheryl Acetate, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Amyris Balsamifera Bark Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Boswellia Carterii Oil, Juniperus Mexicana Oil, Water, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract, Butylene Glycol, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Fruit Extract, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Nelumbium Speciosum Flower Extract, Freesia Refracta Extract, Rose Extract, Leontopodium Alpinum Extract, Jasminum Officinale (Jasmine) Extract, Narcissus Pseudo-Narcissus (Daffodil) Flower Extract, Lilium Tigrinum Extract, Iris Versicolor Extract, Ethylhexylglycerin, Limonene, Citral, Linalool

    The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm*

    Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, PEG-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Oil, Candelilla Cera (Cire de candelilla), Silica, Sorbitan Stearate, Tribehenin, PEG-60 Almond Glycerides, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour, Aqua (Water/Eau), Benzyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Lecithin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Tocopherol, Biosaccharide Gum-4, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil

    Juno & Co (Juno Skin) Clean 10 Cleansing Balm*

    Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Peg-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Synthetic Wax
    Polysorbate 85, Fermented Japanese Pearl Barley (Saccharomyces/Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Seed Ferment Filtrate), Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate), Water, Butylene Glycol

    Youth to the People Superberry Dream Cleansing Balm*

    Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Wax, Polyglyceryl-2 Sesquicaprylate, Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate, Water/Aqua/Eau, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Sorbitan Olivate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Opuntia Ficus-Indica (Prickly Pear) Stem Extract*, Aristotelia Chilensis (Maqui Berry) Fruit Extract, Euterpe Oleracea (Acai) Fruit Extract, Lycium Barbarum (Goji Berry) Fruit Extract, Moringa Oleifera (Moringa) Leaf Extract, Opuntia Tuna (Prickly Pear) Flower/Stem Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower (Neem) Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Ocimum Basilicum (Holy Basil) Flower/Leaf Extract, Corallina Officinalis (Red Algae) Extract, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Tocopherol, Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydroxypropylsulfonate, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Chloride, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Hexylene Glycol, Fragrance/Parfum, Limonene. *Certified Organic Ingredient

    For me, they all performed about the same. I don’t wear waterproof mascara or eyeliner, so I can’t say how well these cleansing balms work for those. I cleanse with a regular cleanser after using the cleansing balms, so I don’t mind if there’s a film from the cleansing balm.

    Texture

    Youth to the People (YTTP)’s cleanser is the most crumbly and it’s not as emollient as the others. Due to the texture being more crumbly, it didn’t remove my makeup as well. I had to work it in longer than the others. The Inkey List one comes in a tube, so it’s a more runny texture. I have to make sure to massage the tube first before squeezing any out. I was sent the Juno & Co cleansing balm and it came melted . They sent me a new one, but I’m worried about how easily it melted. 

    Comparing the textures to food: The YTTP one is like mashed potatoes (with nothing added in). The melted Juno & Co one was like melted butter that had cooled down a bit (still runny, but not completely liquid). The new tub I was sent still wasn’t as solid as the other ones.

    Packaging

    The K-beauty cleansing balms come with spatulas, while most of the others don’t come with one. Glow Recipe wins for best packaging since it comes in a glass jar that closes nicely. I wish the spatula could fit inside the jar, but I understand why they have a larger one since the jar is quite deep. I keep all of my spatulas in a little glass container, but it’d be nice to have it in the jar if you travel. The Youth to the People one also comes in a glass jar, but when I unscrew the lid, it doesn’t feel as smooth as the Glow Recipe. The Clinique, Heimish and Banila Co. cleansing balms come in sturdy, plastic containers. When you open the lids of the Heimish and Banila Co balms, there is a spatula inside. The Juno & Co one is a cheaper container that I sometimes have trouble closing if the inner lid isn’t perfectly aligned. The Inkey List one comes in a tube. This is my least favourite packaging since the cleansing balm is already more emollient than the others. I would not travel with the Inkey List or Juno & Co ones. A few times, I’ve had to wash off both of them because the products got onto the packaging.

    Cost

    In the table below, I’ve calculated the cost per mL for the cleansing balms I’ve tried. I also added others that are available on Sephora and K-beauty ones I want to try.

    Price (CAD)SizeCost per mL Packaging
    Banila Co. Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm (Original) - 100mL25100mL0.25plastic with spatula
    Banila Co. Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm (Original) - 180mL37180mL0.206plastic with spatula
    Beauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm24100mL0.24plastic with spatula
    belif Aqua Bomb Cleansing Balm48100mL 0.48plastic with spatula
    Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm (mini)1730mL 0.567plastic, no spatula
    Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm47125mL0.376plastic, no spatula
    Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm (value) 62200mL0.31
    		plastic, no spatula
    Drunk Elephant Slaai Makeup-Melting Butter Cleanser45110g (110mL)0.409plastic with spatula
    Farmacy Clearly Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm (mini)3050mL0.6plastic, mini probably doesn't come with a spatula
    Farmacy Clearly Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm46100mL0.46plastic with spatula
    Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm (mini)3050mL0.6plastic, mini probably doesn't come with a spatula
    Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm 46100mL0.46plastic with spatula
    Glow Recipe Papaya Sorbet Smoothing Enzyme Cleansing Balm42100mL 0.42glass jar with spatula
    Heimish All Clean Balm25120mL0.208plastic with spatula
    I'm From Fig Cleansing Balm40100mL0.40plastic with spatula
    The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm (mini)5.6950mL0.114squeeze tube
    The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm13.99150mL0.093squeeze tube
    Juno & Co (Juno Skin) Clean 10 Cleansing Balm2185g (85mL)0.247plastic with spatula
    Youth to the People Superberry Dream Cleansing Balm45100mL0.45glass jar, no spatula

    Looking at the cost per mL, I was surprised which ones were more expensive. The Drunk Elephant one actually isn’t the most expensive one on the list.

    The Clinique one was the first one I tried. I finished it before trying other ones, so I wasn’t able to compare them side by side. I liked it a lot because it doesn’t have a scent and I don’t remember it having a filmy feeling after using it. I will buy it again once I’ve finished my current ones and update this post with a final verdict. For now, I will exclude it from the ranking. My favourite is the Glow Recipe Papaya Sorbet Smoothing Enzyme Cleansing Balm. It is on the more expensive end, so for the lower range, I would pick the Heimish All Clean Balm. It doesn’t have any added fragrances and you get more in the tub (120mL vs 100mL for most of the other brands).

    Have you tried these cleansing balms? Which is your fave?

    Love,

    Products marked with * were sent to me for review.

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  • Haul | YesStyle.com

    August 12, 2022

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m sharing my haul and first impressions ordering from YesStyle!

    If you’re a Canadian and you’re considering making an order from YesStyle, here’s some information:

    • I spent over $110 which means I got free shipping. If you spend $70-$110, you pay $18.62 shipping and if you spend below $70, you pay $10.64 for shipping
    • There were no duties
    • I ordered on July 8th and my order was delivered on August 7th
      • It took 8 business days to ship (July 20th) – Even though all of the products I ordered were either ‘ready to ship’ or ‘ships in 1-2 days’
      • It was released by Customs on August 2nd, arriving in Vancouver

    I ordered some things for my friend. She ordered 6 things. So, all 16 items we ordered added up to $110 (not just what’s listed below).

    • COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch
    • COSRX AC Collection Acne Patch
    • Shiseido Senka Perfect Whip Face Wash
    • Rohto Mentholatum Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Acid Face Foam
    • Too Cool for School Artclass by Rodin Shading Master Set – #01 Classic
      • I wanted to get the Modern one since the shades had cooler undertones, but I chose this as a Sponsored Item and I think they were only offering the Classic one (or maybe because it was my first time, I just didn’t know how to switch to the other shade…)
    • rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint Bare Juicy Series – #22 Pomelo Skin
    • rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint Bare Juicy Series – #23 Nucadamia
    • rom&nd Glasting Water Tint – #03 Brick River
    • ETUDE Fixing Tint – #05 Midnight Mauve
    • YUGO Hair Fringe with Sideburns – Black
      • lol, I chose this one for fun because I wanted to see how I looked with bangs without having to commit to cutting my hair. I know there’s virtual try-on apps, but I just thought it’d be fun to try

    I had trouble deciding on the lip products. There are so many shades available and they look so different in the pictures vs. swatches. Also, the product pictures all show girls who have full lips. I wouldn’t say my lips are thin, but they’re also not as plump as the ones pictured. I also watched and read a few reviews, but I just went with the ones that weren’t too bright or dark.

    Love,

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  • june 2022 makeup inventory

    My Makeup Inventory | June 2022

    June 7, 2022

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I have an updated makeup inventory list. These posts are more for me to track what products I have/had at a given time. The items in BOLD are unopened/barely used.

    Primers: 3

    • Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water
    • Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water
    • Pixi +C Vit Brightening Perfector*

    Foundations: 3

    • Maybelline Shine-Free + Balance Stick Foundation in Classic Ivory
    • Maybelline Shine-Free + Balance Stick Foundation in Natural Beige
    • Uoma Beauty Say What?! Foundation in Fair Lady T2N

    Concealers: 2

    • Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer in SC-2: Fair To Light Skin Tones
    • Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer in Neutralizer

    Powders: 3

    • Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder
    • Becca Hydra-Mist Set & Refresh Powder (mini)
    • Maybelline Fit Me Matte + Poreless Powder in Translucent

    Blushes/Highlighters/Bronzers: 10

    • Bare Minerals Gen Nude Powder Blush in That Peach Tho
    • Chanel Soleil Tan de Chanel Bronzing Base
    • Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter in 2 Fair
    • Honest Beauty Crème Cheek Blush in Rose Pink
    • Milk Makeup Lip + Cheek (mini) in Werk
    • Burt’s Bees The Luminizer in 1906 Starlight*
    • Milani Strobelight Instant Glow Powder in Afterglow
    • Wet N Wild Megaglo Highlighting Powder in Blossom Glow
    • Hourglass Ambient Lighting Bronzer in Nude Bronze Light
    • Pixi Summer Glow Palette*

    Brows: 3

    • Anastasia Brow Wiz in Ebony
    • Maybelline Brow Fast Sculpt, Mascara for Brows in Clear
    • Uoma Beauty Brow-Fro Blow Out Volumizing Gel in 6

    Eyeshadows: 6

    • Anastasia Beverly Hills Single in Intense Gaze
    • Anastasia Beverly Hills Single in Rosette
    • Anastasia Beverly Hills Single in Sunset
    • Catrice Self Made Bae Palette*
    • Charlotte Tilbury Easy Eye Palette
    • Urban Decay Naked Eyeshadow Single in Half Baked

    Eyeliners: 3

    • Annabelle Kohl Eyeliner in 116 White
    • MAKE UP FOR EVER Artist Color Pencil: Eye, Lip & Brow Pencil 502 Infinite Sand
    • MAKE UP FOR EVER Artist Color Pencil: Eye, Lip & Brow Pencil in 100 Whatever Black

    Mascara: 2

    • L’Oreal Bambi Eye Original Mascara in 407 Extra Noir*
    • L’Oreal Bambi Eye Original Mascara in 400 Blackest Black*

    Lips: 5

    • Burt’s Bees Moisturizing Lip Balm in Tropical Pineappple*
    • Giorgio Armani Rouge Ecstasy Lipstick in 400
    • L’Oreal Colour Riche Les Nus Intense Nude Lipstick in 173*
    • L’Oreal Rouge Signature Matte Lipstick in I Create 416
    • elf Glossy Lip Stain in Fiery Red*

    TOTAL NUMBER OF ITEMS: 40

    I have quite a few items that I bought last year, but still haven’t opened yet. From the ones I’ve tried so far, I would probably repurchase the Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer and the L’oreal Rouge Signature Matte Lipstick.

    Products marked with * were sent to me.

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  • Nov-Dec 2021-Jan 2022 Product Empties

    January 31, 2022

    Hi Everyone!

    I mostly finished skincare products in the past few months and I also decluttered a few things.

    Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser – I’ve used a few bottles of this already. I use it as a cleanser in the morning since it’s very gentle.

    Repurchase? Purchased bottles in bulk from Costco.

    Cerave Moisturizing Cream – Love this body lotion during the colder months. It keeps my skin feeling moisturized.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    How long does it last? 3 months – used once a day on full body.

    Boscia Plant Stem Cell and Ceramide Barrier-Defense Moisturizer* – This was an okay moisturizer. I probably should’ve tried it in the spring/summer because it definitely isn’t enough on its own for my dry skin.

    Repurchase? Maybe in the summer time.

    How long does it last? About 100 uses (took 1.5 months) two times a day. I used a generous amount to moisturize my face and neck.

    Clinique Even Better Eyes Dark Circle Corrector – I had this as my fave eye cream in the past, but the size of it is getting smaller and the price is going up. I feel like there are eye creams that are more hydrating than this one. I know that hydration isn’t the target for this, but it does keep my under eyes pretty smooth.

    Repurchase? Undecided.

    How long does it last? 6 months, used two times a day.

    Volition Beauty Hibiscus Unspottable Correcting Oil* – I really enjoyed this oil. I also noticed that a dark-ish spot on my nose got lighter as I used it.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    How long does it last? Almost a year (about 11 months)! I used 2 drops per use, two times a day.

    Decluttered

    Oh K! Soothing Face Lotion* – I used this for a while, but didn’t notice any improvements in my skin.

    Repurchase? No.

    The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Serum* – I didn’t like this. I found this product too tacky for my liking. I think I don’t like Hyaluronic Acid when it’s on its own. I prefer it with other ingredients. I also didn’t like the bottle this came in. The serum would often get on the top and dry.

    Repurchase? No.

    L’Oreal Ever Pure Bond Strengthening Shampoo & Conditioner* – I had to give this to a friend. At first, I thought the scent of it was really nice and fresh when I smelled it from the tube. But once I actually used it, it was way too powerful for me.

    Repurchase? No.

    Burt’s Bees Goodness Glows Primer* – I did not like this primer. It just sat on my skin and when I tried rubbing it in, it would pill.

    Repurchase? No.

    What products did you finish lately?

    Love,

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

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  • Reviewing My 2021 Beauty Expenses

    December 28, 2021

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing my beauty expenses for 2021!

    I don’t know how useful these posts are for readers, but they are helpful for me to track my progress. It also keeps me accountable for budget goals because I’ve written it for everyone else to see.

    In previous years, I made budgets for each makeup category, i.e. spend $50 on primer, $20 on eyeliner, etc. This year, my plan was to just stay under $500 like I did for 2020.

    Check out my previous beauty expenses posts:

    2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020

    My 2019 Beauty Budget

    Categories20172018201920202021TOTAL SPENT (from 2017-21)
    Makeup130016001100702504320
    Miscellaneous250––16030440
    Skincare450500700230901970
    Total2000210018004603706730
    Planned Purchases21%50%70%85%78%–
    Impulse Purchases79%50%30%15%22%–
    Beauty Expenses from 2017 (lightest shade) to 2021 (darkest shade).

    Earlier this year, I did a bit of a declutter with my makeup. I realized that I didn’t have some products in certain categories (like a spot concealer or a highlighter), so I bought some items that have been on my wishlist for a while.

    My 6 most expensive beauty purchases of 2021. Most of these are products I bought during the Sephora sale in November (prices listed are the approximate sale prices without tax):

    1. Charlotte Tilbury Easy Eye Palette – $58
    2. Hourglass Ambient Lighting Bronzer – $55
    3. Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter – $42
    4. Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage Concealer – $36
    5. First Aid Beauty KP Bump Eraser – $35
    6. Sephora PRO Highlight Brush – $28

    I have quite a lot of unopened makeup. I’d like to open those products before buying anything more. I might buy a new foundation. I’ve had my eye on the UOMA Beauty Say What?! Foundation and I just found out that some of their products are sold at Shoppers Drug Mart!

    PAST GOALS

    In 2017 and 2018, a good chunk of my purchases were from Winners. If you’re not Canadian, Winners is like a TJ Maxx. They sell clothes, accessories, home items and beauty products. The beauty products are usually items that are older stock/discontinued. They also sell brands that I’ve never heard of and brands that aren’t as accessible in Canada. From what I can remember, there wasn’t anything I bought from Winners that I absolutely loved. Also, since it was probably a discontinued item, it would be hard to find again.

    I also don’t really understand how I was able to purchase more than 100 beauty items in 2017. In 2019, I bought about 85 items. In 2020, I bought about 20 items and 2021, I bought about 15.

    FUTURE GOALS

    I still haven’t been wearing makeup regularly, but once I do, I’m hoping to stick to a reasonable amount. I think $1000 was definitely too much since most were impulse purchases. I think between $200 and $500 would be a good amount. For skincare, I think staying under $500 would be good too.  

    I would also like to make an effort to buy makeup and skincare from independent brands, particularly BIPOC-owned brands. It’s hard to find brands that even ship to Canada. When they do, shipping and duties costs more than the product! That’s usually why I stick to bigger retailers, it’s just easier for me and more cost effective. Hopefully more brands I want to try will start selling at Canadian retailers.

    Did you make a budget for 2021? Do you plan to make one for 2022?

    Love,

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  • november 2021 sephora sale haul

    Haul | November 2021 Sephora Sale

    November 16, 2021

    Hi Everyone!

    I’m sharing my Sephora sale haul today! I bought a few things for my mom and then I finally purchased some products that have been on my wishlist for a few years.

    Currently, I have Sephora VIB Rouge status, but I haven’t bought much makeup or skincare in the past two years, so my Rouge status will be downgraded next year. I decided to make some purchases with the 20% off while I still have it.

    Charlotte Tilbury Darling Eyeshadow Palette | $72

    I have been looking at eyeshadows for a while, this one was a bit of an impulse purchase, but the shades are so pretty. lately, I’ve been leaning toward warmer colours.

    Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter in 2 – Fair | $53

    I’ve had this on my wishlist for a long time. I hope it lives up to my expectations.

    Hourglass Ambient Lighting Bronzer in Nude Bronze Light | $69

    The bronzer came broken :/ I contacted customer service to get a re-shipment, so just waiting for the new one to come in. This has also been on my wishlist for a long time. It was sad to open it and see some powder on the outside of the packaging. I knew right away that it was probably broken.

    MAC Cosmetics Mineralize Blush in Sweet Enough | $35

    I bought this for my mom. She previously really loved the powder blush in Mocha, which I also bought. I thought she might like a baked blush more since she got hard pan quite often with the powder blush.

    MAC Cosmetics Powder Blush in Mocha | $32

    Sephora Collection PRO Powder Brush #50 | $45

    I got this brush for my mom. She mentioned that her powder foundation was providing more coverage than she wanted. She prefers a more sheer coverage. Right now, she’s using a denser brush, so I thought a slightly fluffier one might do the trick.

    Sephora Collection PRO Highlight Brush #98 | $40

    I have a Sephora PRO powder brush and it’s one of the softest brushes I own. I currently have a highlight fan brush from Winners. I thought it was time to get one that had a name brand.

    What did you purchase from the sale?

    Love,

    Credit: slideshow pictures taken from internet.

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  • skincare hair empties

    May-June-July 2021 Product Empties

    July 30, 2021

    Hi Everyone!

    I haven’t finished many products over the past few months, so I combined three months’ worth of empties. I haven’t really touched my makeup in a long time, so I only have body, skin and hair care empties.

    Rael Miracle Acne Patches (read my review) – I love these and I will continue to buy them. I like that there are only 2 sizes of patches and the plastic they’re attached to is perforated so it’s easy to peel them off nicely.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Skinceuticals Phlorectin CF* – I didn’t like the smell of this one (it smells like brown sugar or coffee?). It made my face feel tacky the whole day and I didn’t notice a huge difference in my skin either. Even if this was a more reasonable price (it’s $190 CAD for 30 mL), I wouldn’t purchase because of the scent.

    Repurchase? No.

    Neogen Pore Tight Aqua Mask – I don’t really use sheet masks anymore. I’d prefer to just use moisturizers, serums or sleeping masks. This mask didn’t really align with my face well. The eye holes were really high up, so part of my forehead wasn’t covered and a lot of the sheet mask was under my chin. It doesn’t have a scent, but for some reason, it gave me a headache. It dries down tacky which I didn’t like.

    Repurchase? No.

    Cerave Moisturizing Cream – I like this cream. It keeps my skin moisturized throughout the day.

    Repurchase? Yes

    Dove Cool Moisture Shampoo – I like cucumber-scented shampoos. They’re refreshing.

    Repurchase? Yes

    Dove Nourishing Rituals Energize Shampoo – I like the refreshing scent of the grapefruit and lemongrass.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Australian Bodycare Intim Shave Gel* – I didn’t really notice if this helped with ingrowns or any redness/razor bumps.

    Repurchase? No.

    Pixi Glycolic Body Wash* – I was using this on my legs mostly. I am prone to ingrown hairs, so I think the exfoliating qualities of the body wash were helping my legs.

    Repurchase? Maybe.

    What products have you finished lately?

    Love,

    Products marked with * were sent to me.

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  • true bloom HydroBloom™ Skin Rejuvenation Kit

    First Impressions with TrueBloom HydroBloom Skin Rejuvenation Kit

    July 12, 2021

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’ll be sharing my first impressions review of a gadget from a brand called TrueBloom.

    Hydrodermabrasion combines a 2 stage process into one quick and easy treatment for clearer and healthier skin.
    ​Stage 1 is the Detox and Exfoliation process. The warm water polishes and deeply cleanses your skin while the strong yet gentle vacuum unclogs your pores and removes toxins from your skin!
    ​Stage 2 is the Revitalization and Brightening process. The vacuum suction increases blood flow, triggering natural collagen production while stimulating new cell growth.
    ​Collagen is the essential protein which provides the elasticity in the skin, helping your skin look and feel young and healthy. 

    • Easy 5 Minute Weekly Treatment
    • Sucks Dirt & Makeup From your Face
    • Unclog Pores, Remove Blackheads & Whiteheads
    • Stimulates Anti-Ageing Via Collagen Production
    • Improve Skin Tone & Texture
    • Reduces Wrinkles & Fine Lines
    • Suitable For All Skin Types
    • true bloom HydroBloom™ Skin Rejuvenation Kit

    I’ve always been curious about these types of devices. You put warm water into the device which cleanses the skin while the vacuum removes toxins and unclogs skin. The vacuum is meant to increase blood flow and stimulate new cell growth. The device comes with 6 different attachments – 3 silicone ones and 3 hard plastic (different sizes for each). The instructions in the box aren’t the most coherent, but it gets the message across.

    The suction on this device is very strong and I’m a bit concerned about it causing bruising on the more sensitive areas of my face. I made sure to read instructions carefully before using it. I tested it out on my arm to see how strong the suction was and it got a bit red. After a while it went away, so I tried it out on my face. I got a red mark on my forehead and jawline which stayed there for the rest of the night. On the website, there’s before and after shots of the water. There’s one compartment for the clean water and another for where the water goes after. I’ve seen the water look cloudy and kind of yellow in some pictures. I’m assuming the person who used it had removed their makeup with the device. When I tried it, the used water was a little cloudy and there were a few hairs in it, but I didn’t see anything else.

    I’ll continue to try it out on my arms and legs just to see if it helps with blood circulation. I don’t get a lot of blackheads, but if I do, I will test it out. I’m curious to see if it’s strong enough to pull out a blackhead. For now, I will just have to test it out long-term to see if it does improve blood circulation and improve skin tone.

    RATING: 2/5

    At the moment, I’m not convinced this product is necessary for your skincare routine. It feels like it’s just another gadget that I’ll use for a few months and then forget about, but we’ll see. Especially with this being gadget from a brand that’s not well-known. Maybe one from a better known brand would have a gentler suction.

    Have you tried one of these gadgets?

    Love,

    *This product was sent to me complimentary for a review. All opinions are my own.

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  • winky lux marbleous balm

    Review | Winky Lux Marbleous Balm

    June 17, 2021

    Hi Everyone!

    I know it’s been a while since I last posted. I will try to post more reviews this year. I’ve been trying out a few skincare products so hopefully I will have some reviews in July and August for you.

    Today, I have a review for the Winky Lux Marbleous Balms.

    With the tint of a lipstick and the hydration of a lip balm, Winky Lux Marbleous Balm is the ultimate hybrid. This luxe formula is enriched with superhero ingredients, including ceramides for plumping and coconut oil for softening. The unique marble design delivers a sheer wash of color for a natural, kissable pout.

    Ingredients: Candelilla Cera/Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax/Cire de Candelilla, Bis-Diglyceryl Polyacyladipate-2, Octyldodecanol, Polybutene, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Polyethylene, Isopropyl Palmitate, Cera Microcristallina/Microcrystalline Wax/Cire Microcristalline, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum/Fragrance, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Ceramide 1, Ceramide 2, Ceramide 3, Ceramide 4, Ceramide 6, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Cholesterol, Glyceryl Stearate, Dipropylene Glycol, Citral, Limonene. May Contain/Peut Contenir (±): CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499 (Iron Oxides), CI 15850 (Red 6), CI 15850 (Red 7 Lake), CI 19140 (Yellow 5 Lake), CI 77742 (Manganese Violet).

    It retails for $18 USD on the Winky Lux website. There are 3 shades available:

    • Giddy: Cool toned baby pink
    • Delighted: Peachy pink
    • Dreamy: Natural pink

    I put Giddy in a giveaway, so I don’t have the swatch for that one, but here’s swatches for the other two shades.

    winky lux marbleous balm
    From left: Dreamy, Delighted

    Let’s start with the packaging, it comes in a pretty rose gold tube with a water printed design cap. It’s really pretty and according to the Winky Lux website, each one is unique (no two tubes look alike). I really like the tube, it will be pretty to put on display after finishing them.

    RATING: 2/5

    When I first opened it, I wasn’t sure how moisturizing it would be. Once it warmed up a bit from my lips, it became more emollient. Since it’s marbled, there could be more of the white swirl which can make the shade appear lighter. So you can just swatch it on your hand or lips to get rid of it. Even after doing this, the shades are still to light for my lip colour. It settles into lines and makes any chapped part of my lips look worse. It does feel a bit moisturizing, but it feels more like a lipstick than a balm. It doesn’t have a scent that smells like anything specific to me. It smells like lipstick (slightly waxy scent). The shades are too light for my natural lip colour, so it just looks unnatural. The shade, Delighted, is better than Dreamy, but I still don’t like it. It looks okay from afar, but up close, I can see how it settled into the lines of my lips. The only way I was able to make it look good was by applying some Vaseline and dabbing it on lightly, but if I’m going to apply Vaseline, I’d rather just use that instead of spending $20 on a balm.

    Have you tried these balms? What did you think about them?

    Love,

    *Products were gifted to me by Winky Lux.

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