• Worth It? | Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick

    January 18, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing a cult favourite: The Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick! This is the first Hourglass product I’ve purchased, but I definitely have other Hourglass products on my wishlist!

    I’ve tried a few different foundation sticks at this point: Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick, Maybelline Fit Me Stick and the Lancome Teint Idole Foundation Stick. I bought the Lancome one at the same time as the Hourglass one and I’ve been testing both of them out. I asked my IG followers which one to review first and the majority chose the Hourglass. I really love foundation sticks, they’re so easy to pop into your bag and they can double as a concealer! I really loved the Maybelline Fit Me Stick and the Bobbi Brown stick is beautiful, but I don’t have the right shade match. After I’ve reviewed both the Lancome and Hourglass, I will compare them to see which I prefer.

    The Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick is full coverage with a natural finish. For me, it looks more like a matte finish. I have the shade Ivory which is described as a light medium, cool undertone. It’s a very good shade match for me.

    The whole tube is so shiny, it’s kind of a pain to wipe off your fingerprints on the outer part and when you take the lid off, but let’s see if the foundation itself is worth it!

    A revolutionary foundation stick with the coverage of a concealer, the fluidity of a liquid, and the weightlessness of a powder in a long-wearing waterproof formula for undetectable full coverage. The unprecedented concentration of pigment in this foundation provides maximum coverage with minimum product, concealing all discoloration and imperfections for flawless skin with a seamless finish.

    Hourglass advises you to do the following when applying it: Dot 3 triangular dots in the center of both sides of the face – 3 dots on the chin, 3 dots on the tops of the cheekbones and 3 dots on the forehead.

    It would be interesting to see if the Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Brush makes a huge difference in how it applies since it’s meant for it, but I don’t really want to splurge on a brush especially when I prefer using sponges over brushes.

    Test #1

    Base: Tarte Maracuja Oil, Make Up For Ever Step 1 Equalizer Primer (Smoothing)

    Application: Damp Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge

    Setting Powder: Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Finishing Powder on t-zone and under eyes

    After 3 hours, it was getting a bit shiny on my t-zone. My cheeks and forehead still looked really good, but my nose area and chin were breaking up and looking a bit cakey.

    Test #2

    Base: Tarte Maracuja Oil (applied as moisturizer), Make Up For Ever Step 1 Equalizer Primer (Hydrating), MAC Strobe Cream in Pinklite

    Colour Correction: used Laneige BB Cushion Hydra Radiance to cover up some redness around nose

    Application: used a dry cushion puff

    Concealer: Maybelline Age Rewind Dark Circle Eraser Concealer in Light

    Setting Powder/Spray: Innisfree No Sebum Mineral Powder on t-zone and under eyes, Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray

    After a couple hours, it was breaking up, it looked dry and cakey. From far away, it looked flawless, but when you got up close and personal, it looked pretty bad.

    Test #3

    Base: Tula Hydrating Day & Night Cream (as moisturizer), half side of face Tatcha The Silk Canvas Protective Primer, other half Tarte Timeless Smoothing Primer

    Application: Damp Sponge

    Concealer: Maybelline Age Rewind Dark Circle Eraser Concealer in Light

    Setting Powder/Spray: None

    Upon close inspection, both sides of my face look the same (The Tatcha and Tarte primers both smooth out the skin for the foundation). Similar to Test #2, it looks flawless from a distance, but up close you can definitely tell I’m wearing makeup. It looks a bit cakey. Feels a bit tacky in the areas that don’t have any powder products. I contoured, bronzed and applied blush and highlighter. I used the Kat Von D Shade & Light Contour Palette to sculpt (sombre) and to set under eyes (lucid). I feel like both primers performed the same.

    After two hours, the redness on my chin and under my nose were peeking through.

    RATING: 4/5

    I was planning to test this out a few more times, but I think I already know what my opinion of this foundation is: I like it, but don’t love it. I will continue to experiment with it and let you know if I find a combo of products that I like.

    I’m not a full coverage girl, I prefer sheer or medium coverage with a dewy finish because my skin is dry. I like it enough to finish it, but I do have to make sure to use an illuminating primer/highlighter underneath or maybe mix it with a dewy foundation or moisturizer. Maybe I will use it as more of a concealer.

    Have you tried this foundation stick? What did you think about it?

    Love,

    jen
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  • This or That | Benefit 24 Hr Brow Setter Shaping & Setting Gel vs. Diorshow BoldBrow

    January 15, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Do you use brow gel in your brow routine? I’ve tried a few different ones: clear and tinted. I prefer a tinted brow gel because I find that the clear ones I’ve tried make my brows look glossy/shiny in the sunlight? Plus, tinted brow gels give a more natural, filled in look (especially if they have fibers) whereas the clear gels sort of separate my brows and tend to wipe off the brow pencil I used beforehand.

    Benefit Ready, Set, Brow Deluxe Sample of the 24 Hr Brow Setter Shaping & Setting Gel

    An invisible brow gel that shapes, sets, and locks in brow color for 24 hours. Hold eyebrows in place and keep them perfectly polished all day with this clear setting gel. The custom brush features long bristles that evenly coat brow hairs from root to tip and short bristles to sculpt and shape hairs into place. The flexible, flake-free and quick to dry formula applies easily to brows and locks on makeup for 24 hours.

    Diorshow Bold Brow in 002 Dark

    Update: They no longer sell this and they’ve replaced it with another brow gel.

    A brow mascara to achieve lush, full, and groomed brows immediately. Quickly and easily create a natural brow look that highlights lids and emphasizes the eyes. The formula coats each hair for a strengthening effect, and the mousse-serum format is enriched with microfibers to coat skin and brows for an instant, lush look. The natural shades match any skin tone: Light, Medium, or Dark, while the micro-brush coats each fiber for fuller, perfectly shaped brows.

    I think clear brow gels are great if you just want a 1 step routine and you already have great brows. If you’re someone who has gaps in your brows, then a tinted gel with fibers is really useful.

    I love the Benefit Gimme Brow and the Diorshow Bold Brow gels. I bought the Dior one because it has a little more product in it than the Gimme Brow, but sometimes the shade looks a bit gray-brown. The Gimme Brow expanded their shade range and they have a darker shade that would match my dark brows. Next time, I think I will try the Anastasia and Hourglass ones. I know Essence has one for a fraction of the price, but I feel like the darkest shade will be too light for me. I know Glossier Boy Brow is a fave for many people, so I might give that one a try at some point. Since brow gel is okay to keep longer than mascara (because it doesn’t go close to your eyes), I don’t mind a high end one.

    WINNER: TIE!

    After trying the Colourpop Boss Brow Clear Gel, I’ve changed my mind. Initially, I chose tinted brow gels, but now I love clear gels.

    Between the Diorshow Bold Brow and the Benefit one though, I prefer the Diorshow Bold Brow.

    What brow products do you use?

    Love,

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  • CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara vs. Maybelline Lash Sensational Full Fan Effect Mascara

    This Or That | CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara vs. Maybelline Lash Sensational Full Fan Effect Mascara

    January 14, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    I compared two mascaras: CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara and the Maybelline Lash Sensational Full Fan Effect Mascara.

    I really love them both because they look very natural, but they also darken my lashes! I will put up my review at the end of the day, but right after applying them, both eyes looked very similar- curled, lengthened and no clumps. I applied some on my lower lashes and both look very natural and not spidery.

    You can check out my full reviews on both mascaras by clicking the links below:

    Lash Blast Volume Mascara | Lash Sensational Mascara

    CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara

    Get a blast of lush, volumized lashes! LashBlast’s patented volume-boosting formula and patent-pending brush are designed to max-out each and every lash, leaving you with the ultimate big lash look. Instant volume and fullness. Smudge and wear-proof. Hypoallergenic and suitable for contact lens wearers.

    Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara

    Lash Sensational Mascara from Maybelline is the first patented fanning brush with 10 layers of bristles to reveal a full flourish of lashes. Liquid Ink formula coats from all sides for a sensational full fan effect.

    WINNER: Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara

    The Maybelline Mascara did a better job at keeping my lashes curled – especially because the wand is curled. Between the two, I think the CoverGirl is great for day time and the Maybelline for night time since it made my lashes look a bit darker and thicker.

    Have you tried these two mascaras?

    Love,

    jen
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  • Project Pan | 2019

    January 8, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    I’ve chosen ten products that I want to finish for my Project Pan:

    • Make Up For Ever Step 1 Equalizer Primer – Hydrating
    • Smashbox Photo Finish Hydrating Under Eyes Primer
    • Essence I Love Colour Intensifying Eyeshadow Base
    • MAC Radiant Primer (mini)
    • MAC Strobe Cream in Pinklite
    • Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick in Ivory
    • Anastasia Beverly Hills Stick Foundation (Contour) in Fawn
    • Burt’s Bees Blush in Shy Pink
    • Maybelline Master Chrome Highlighter in Molten Gold
    • Physician’s Formula Butter Highlighter in Pink

    Here are a few products that I will probably finish before July or declutter:

    • Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Dark Circles Treatment Concealer in Light
    • NYX Micro Brow Pencil in Black
    • Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Finishing Powder
    • Laneige BB Cushion Hydra Radiance SPF50 in No. 23 Sand → REVIEW
    • Innisfree No Sebum Mineral Powder
    • Urban Decay Primer Potion (mini)
    • CoverGirl LashBlast Volume Mascara → REVIEW
    • Maybelline Lash Sensational Full Fan Effect Mascara → REVIEW
    • Diorshow Bold Brow Gel in 002 Dark
    • Giorgio Armani Acqua Di Gioia Eau de Parfum. I’ve had it since 2014, so I’d like to finish it so I can try new ones. It’s still one of my faves, but I’d love to try another one.

    What do you hope to finish this year?

    Love,

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  • Revisiting My 2018 Favourites | Part 1

    January 4, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    I thought I would do a post revisiting last year’s favourites to see if they were still my favourites. I’ve already done a post for my September to December 2017 favourites.

    Revisiting My 2017 Favourites

    I’m going to split the posts into 2 parts so it’s not too long. Part 1 for January to June and I’ll post the Part 2 in six months’ time for July to December since they’re still fairly recent. These posts are only going to include my beauty favourites.

    JANUARY

    Maybelline FaceStudio Master Chrome Metallic Highlighter in 100 Molten Gold – LOVE LOVE LOVE!!

    Repurchase? Yes! I want to get one of the lighter shades (since they’ve expanded their shade range) because this one can be a bit too dark on me.

    Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm – Love this balm!

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Clinique Even Better Eyes Dark Circle Corrector – I enjoyed the metal applicator and it kept my under eyes soft and hydrated.

    Repurchase? I would buy it again, but I want to try other products. I’ve only tried a couple eye creams and it’s the best one I’ve tried so far, but I know there are ones that people rave about even more.

    Tangle Teezer Original Detangling Hairbrush – I haven’t used this in a while, but I still love it. I think I’m just worried the bristles will come off and I’ll have to get a new one.

    Repurchase? Yes, but I would get one with a handle. (UPDATE: I won a giveaway and now I have one with a handle!)

    Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo – I love the smell of this. I was surprised to read reviews about it smelling too much.

    Repurchase? I’ve already repurchased it.

    MAC Vamplify Gloss in What’s Going On – I loved the applicator of this lip gloss, but I didn’t like this particular shade. The only shades available are bright colours.

    Repurchase? No. If MAC made a lip gloss with this applicator in a shade I liked, I would definitely get it though.

    FEBRUARY

    MAC Strobe Cream – I love the Pinklite!

    Repurchase? Probably.

    Pixi Glow Tonic – LOVE THIS!

    Repurchase? I already have. (UPDATE: I have since realized that I may be allergic to witch hazel which is in the glow tonic).

    Innisfree No-Sebum Mineral Powder – The powder itself is great and I love the puff. I don’t love the smell of the powder though.

    Repurchase? Probably not.

    MARCH

    Coastal Scents Eclipse Palette – I enjoyed this, but I feel like I only used a handful of shades. Even at $5, it felt like a waste. Plus, you could tell the quality of the packaging was not great because it was basically just foam that had a piece of plastic material glued onto it. It started to peel.

    Repurchase? No. Shipping to Canada is an extra charge. I’d rather spend the money on the product instead of shipping. I’ve been using a Hard Candy palette that has a fraction of the colours, but I will be able to use all of them.

    LOVE OPI XOXO Mini Nail Lacquer 10 Pack – This pack had 4 colours that I wasn’t a fan of, but it was a good price at Winners.

    Repurchase? I wouldn’t have bought the pack at full price, but I would buy individual shades at full price.

    Dove Advanced Hair Series Regenerative Nourishment Serum-in-Oil – It made my hair super smooth, but I think I’d rather use a hair mask.

    Repurchase? Probably not.

    APRIL

    Physician’s Formula Murumuru Butter Butter Bronzer – Great bronzer.

    Repurchase? Maybe.

    Physician’s Formula Butter Highlighter in Pink – Pretty cream highlighter.

    Repurchase? Maybe.

    Soo’Ae Caada Purifying Brightening Peeling Gel – LOVE!

    Repurchase? Yes!

    Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick in Ivory 0.75 – This is a beautiful foundation!

    Repurchase? Undecided. I want to try other stick foundations to see how they compare. If I do end up buying this again, I need the right shade.

    MAC Pigment in Stardream – It’s a beautiful shade!

    Repurchase? No. Pigments are too messy for me.

    Miniso Flawless Baked Blusher in Rosy Pink – I decided to declutter this. This was a pretty shade, but I didn’t love that it was made in China. If you’re on a budget and you don’t mind where your products are made, this was a really pretty blush.

    Repurchase? No.

    MAY

    Bobbi Brown Instant Long-Wear Makeup Remover – This easily removes eye makeup.

    Repurchase? No. Too expensive for a product that will be on your face for seconds. I’d rather spend money on a moisturizer.

    INGLOT x Jennifer Lopez LipGlossy Lip Gloss in J225 Pinky – I liked the colour of this lip gloss, but I don’t think it’s worth $28. Plus, the smell reminded me of drugstore lip glosses.

    Repurchase? No.

    Cake Beauty (Delectable) The Everything Powder – I used this to set my makeup and it works beautifully. It doesn’t have talc…it’s basically just corn starch! But, it had a smell that was quite powerful (like the Baby All Gone dolls where you feed the baby cherries from a spoon – anyone old enough to know what those are?) This was annoying to use as a setting powder because I had to use an old setting powder container to use it (since this is shaped like a baby powder bottle).

    Repurchase? No.

    Live Clean Exotic Nectar Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner – This made my hair look shinier and smoother. Although, I’m not a huge fan of the scent of Argan Oil, I didn’t mind this.

    Repurchase? Possibly.

    JUNE

    Clinique Sonic Systems Purifying Brush – I enjoy this brush and the charge lasts a really long time! I got this at the MAC Warehouse Sale for $40 and the brush heads were $10.

    Repurchase? Although I like the brush, I wouldn’t pay full price for the brush heads. If I ever go back to the MAC Warehouse sale, I will pick some up.

    Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask (read my review) – I gave it a 5/5, but I’m not sure if it actually helped to clarify and exfoliate my skin. When I wake up the next morning though, my skin does look quite refreshed and hydrated.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Glow Recipe Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser – If I wanted to replace the Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm, I could buy this to use as a makeup remover. I love that they changed the packaging from a tube to a bottle!

    Repurchase? Possibly.

    Clionadh Cosmetics Mother of Pearl Highlighter – This is so pretty!

    Repurchase? Yes, but without the scent.

    The Body Shop Tea Tree Targeted Gel Blemish Stick – I’m so torn. This blemish stick worked well, but it felt unsanitary to stick the wand back in after using it on a pimple. Plus, it’s expensive for a small stick.

    Repurchase? Undecided. But if I do, it has to be on sale.

    The Body Shop Tea Tree Anti-Imperfection Daily Solution – I believe this is no longer available, but it felt like it was the same product as the tea tree oil from The Body Shop.

    Repurchase? Unavailable.

    The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Body Wash – This worked okay, I would still get a pimple here and there on my back.

    Repurchase? Probably not.

    Burt’s Bees Blush in Shy Pink – This is a pretty matte shade, but sometimes I go too heavy-handed and have to really blend it out.

    Repurchase? Probably not. The shade is a bit too pink and I’m not a huge fan of the packaging. Since blush lasts so long, I’d rather pay for a high-end one with nicer packaging.

    Click here for Part 2!

    Did you spot any of your favourites on my list?

    Love,

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  • December 2018 Product Empties

    December 31, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    This is my last post of 2018! I wish everyone a safe and Happy New Year’s Eve!!

    I only finished a handful of products this month:

    Aussie Hair Insurance Heat Protecting Shine Spray – I don’t even know how long ago I bought this, but I finally finished it! I thought it smelled nice and it definitely made my hair shiny and not at all sticky or anything. One thing I didn’t like was that I thought the nozzle was weird because it was squirting out instead of misting. I transferred it into another spray bottle and it did the same thing. So, it must’ve been the product. I don’t know why though because it was liquid (looked milky, but it wasn’t thick). Instead of spraying it directly into my hair, I would spray it onto my hand and work it into my hair.

    Repurchase? Since it didn’t spray out nicely, I don’t think I would repurchase.

    Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm – I love this stuff! Although, I do want to try other cleansing balms to compare. This removes makeup easily and didn’t irritate my skin.

    Repurchase? I just started using another mini, but I would definitely purchase a full-size pot when I’m done.

    Tula Purifying Cleanser – This was a nice cleanser. I bought the Tula Discovery Kit and I started using this product first to ease into using the Tula skincare. While it cleansed well, I don’t know if it made a huge difference in my skin. I think once I started using the other products, that’s when I noticed my skin was improving.

    Repurchase? Probably not. I would rather use a cheaper drugstore cleanser and then splurge on serums, oils and other products that stay on my face for longer than a minute.

    The Face Shop Beauty Tools Multi 5 Layer Cotton Pads – I got these for free after spending a certain amount of money at The Face Shop. I like the peelable, multi-layer cotton pads. I use two (layers) a day for my skincare regimen and then to remove my makeup I can use up to 5 layers (1 cotton pad).

    Repurchase? Assuming they aren’t too expensive, I would buy them again.

    Saturday Skin Rub-A-Dub Refining Peel Gel (read my review) – This performed the same as other peeling gels I’ve tried, but I think I prefer other ones because they are cheaper (like the Soo’Ae Purifying Brightening Peeling Gel – it has more in the tube and it’s half the price).

    Repurchase? No.

    Saturday Skin Daily Dew Hydrating Essence Mist (read my review) – The sprayer on the small bottle was good. The mist would disperse the product onto my face very evenly.

    Repurchase? Undecided.

    I decided to give the Saturday Skin Wide Awake Brightening Eye Cream and the Featherweight Daily Moisturizing Cream to my sister because I wanted to try the Tula products and lately, the Tarte Maracuja Oil has been helping to keep my under eyes hydrated.

    Bio Oil Skincare Oil – I bought this to help with stretch marks on my hips, but when I was using it, I would breakout with bumps on my hips. I’ve used this on other areas like my thighs and knees and I didn’t break out there, but I don’t know if it made a huge difference. I think the only way for stretch marks to fade is with time. I’m not a huge fan of the smell of this oil.

    Repurchase? No.

    Etude House Eye & Lip Remover – I really liked this makeup remover; while I didn’t have waterproof mascara to test out how well it works, it removed regular eyeshadow and mascara well without leaving behind raccoon eyes.

    Repurchase? Probably.

    Love,

    jen

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  • December 2018 Faves

    December 28, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    I can’t believe it’s time for my monthly faves again! ANNND, it’s the last one of the year!

    I could’ve sworn that I chose the @narsissist Soft Matte Complete Concealer as a previous feature friday…I checked and I haven’t, so here we are! I am in loooove with this concealer. It blends beautifully into the skin. I haven’t used it as an under eye concealer because the shade I have is a bit too dark to use it as one. I use it as a spot concealer (I have the shade Custard). I’ve been using it for a while now and I’ve barely made a dent in it.

    I’m really loving this EcoTools shading brush. It’s the perfect brush for applying the base shadow. It’s super soft and blends beautifully. I also like how the handle is tapered which makes it nice and easy to hold. 

    Foaming face washes are my fave. I love this The Body Shop Aloe Calming Foaming Wash. As it says on the bottle, it’s very gentle on sensitive skin. I use it every day and I got it in September which means it lasts about 3 months. Although, sometimes I have used more than 1 pump, so I could probably stretch it to 4 next time. It is a bit pricey, so I suggest waiting for a sale if you plan to pick this up.

    I know Kat von D is controversial at the moment and people are boycotting the brand because of her personal choice to not vaccinate her child. I also know that so many people love this palette that I decided to put aside whatever conflicting views I may have with her own personal views and try the Shade + Light Contour Palette.

    While I haven’t had the chance to try all of the shades, I love the shade sombre for my contour (true taupe contour). It’s the perfect one for my skin tone. The others look a bit dark, but I can use those as eyeshadow or maybe use them for when I just take Instagram selfies so that you can actually see the contour in pictures. I would definitely consider buying the shade sombre when I finish this one or maybe I can find a dupe from another brand.

    I made these brown sugar cookies for Christmas and they are so yummy. Especially when you use them after they’ve cooled down enough to make ice cream sandwiches. I just used vanilla ice cream because we had some for apple pie, but since the cookies are plain, you could use any ice cream!

    Love,

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  • 2018 | A Year in Review

    December 26, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas with family and/or friends! Are you doing any Boxing Day shopping today? I’m definitely not in the mood to fight the crowds this year, but I might check out the sales online (no makeup though). I might replenish my Tula products if there’s a good sale since I’m almost finished the Discovery Kit (review to come).

    Before I get started, I would like to thank everyone for reading my blog and for your love and support!

    SOCIAL MEDIA

    This has been a really good year for the blog and my Instagram. I started posting more frequently and regularly on the blog which really helped. I’ve been posting Mon-Wed-Fri in the mornings. For 2019, I’ve decided to post Tuesdays & Fridays at 8 am EST/EDT. Since I’m doing my best to cut down on impulse purchases and doing a Makeup Buying Ban until the Spring Sephora Sale, I won’t have as many products to review.

    For my beauty Instagram, I did my best to post at least 1 picture every day. If I missed a day, I would try to make up for it with a few the next day. I can’t believe I made it to 3.5k followers on Instagram! I will have another giveaway once I reach 4k.

    MAKEUP & SKINCARE

    This year, I was very generously sent products from a few different brands. While I don’t write reviews or have a blog just to receive free products, it’s always nice to know that a brand has found my page and wants my opinions on their products.

    I’ve tried a lot of makeup and skincare this year and along the way, I’ve found some favourites which I’m really happy about.

    Check out my monthly faves!

    Unfortunately, there were also quite a few misses. A couple of cult favourites just didn’t work out for me. I think I will write a dedicated blog post on those products.

    MY SKIN & EXERCISE

    Back in October, I started using an app to track my water intake. My skin has always been on the drier side and I think it’s because I’ve never drank the daily amount that you’re supposed to drink. While I don’t always reach my goal, I am definitely drinking more water than I did before. My skin is still dry, but it’s better than it used to be (especially since I’ve been using the Tarte Maracuja Oil, one of my new skincare faves). My skin is also clearer than it’s been in months. I still have dark spots from when I was bad and squeezed at my pimples. I’m doing my best not to touch them, even though it’s so tempting to pop them. I realized that I used to rest my chin on my hand a lot which may or may not have contributed to acne. I try not to touch my face throughout the day too.

    I think my skin has also been better because I’m not drinking juice as often. Back when I was in university and a bit after, I would drink a glass or two of juice/pop every day. If I do drink juice/soda, I keep it to once a day.

    In addition to drinking more water, I’ve been doing arm, leg and ab exercises – crunches, leg raises, bicep curls, etc. I’m trying to do some exercise every day because as someone who blogs, I’m in front of the computer, sitting, a lot.

    ETSY SHOP

    For my Etsy shop, Prints by JenCat, I started the Etsy shop in July and I’m happy to say that I reached my goal – I was hoping that I would get at least 1 sale each month. I am so thankful for my family and friends who have supported me.

    PERSONAL LIFE

    LOL, what dating life? This one’s on me. I’ve been focusing more on jobs than trying to find a boyfriend.

    Have you check out my 12-Part Dating Series? Click here for Part 1

    I rarely go out, so unless someone were to knock on my door, there’s 0% chance of me finding one until I make the effort to go out. Not everyone can be like Rapunzel from Tangled. Although, if someone just climbed through my window, I wouldn’t just hit them in the head with a frying pan, I would call the police.

    lol, I love Anna Kendrick. I just got her book Scrappy Little Nobody for Christmas!

    I have Resting Bitch Face (which also looks sad too), so I doubt anyone would come up to me while I was just out and about.

    TRAVEL

    I didn’t go anywhere this year. The farthest I went was Montréal with my friends. Maybe next year, I’ll go somewhere.

    I feel like that pretty much sums up this year for me. It was a pretty good year that went by so fast once it was Summer/Fall. I can’t believe so much happened this year: Royal Wedding, Olympics (did I even watch them this year? I couldn’t even remember were they were held – PyeongChang), Black Panther and Avengers: Infinity War came out (I finally watched them this month).

    Love,

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  • Makeup Inventory | Dec 2018

    December 21, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m checking in with my makeup inventory to show you how much progress I’ve made since my Mid-Year Makeup Inventories (click the links below):

    Primers & Foundations | Bronzers | Blushes | Mascaras | Highlighters

    I finished and decluttered half of the items I had in July; mostly decluttered.

    CURRENT MAKEUP INVENTORY

    Primers: 11

    Setting/Finishing Powders: 8

    Illuminating Powders/Creams: 3

    Foundations: 7

    Concealers/Colour Correctors: 5

    Contour: 3

    Bronzers: 3

    Blushes: 5

    Highlighters: 9

    Brows: 3

    Eyeshadow Pans/Sticks/Creams: 60

    Eyeliners: 9

    Mascaras: 2 

    Lipstick: 7

    Lip Liners: 5 

    Lip Glosses/Tints: 4 

    Makeup Removers: 1

    Perfume: 4 

    Nail Polish: 19

    TOTAL: 168 (started with 340 – I finished and decluttered 172 items in the past 5 months)

    I haven’t bought any new products in the following categories since taking Inventory of my collection in July:

    • Blush
    • Bronzer
    • Highlighter (I have a new one, but I didn’t buy it for myself…so it doesn’t count)
    • Illuminating Powders
    • Eyeshadows
    • Lip products (lipstick, balm, gloss, tint, liners)
    • Makeup Remover
    • Perfume
    • Nail Polish

    MAKEUP INVENTORY GOALS

    You’ll remember from my Makeup Goals post, that I set a number for each category of what I should aim for and I said that I wanted to cut my collection in half (which I did!). I hope to continue decreasing the number of items on my collection and maybe reach 100 items by the end of 2019.

    • Primers: 8-10
    • Foundations: 6
    • Concealers/Colour Correctors: 5
    • Setting/Finishing Sprays/Powders & Face Mists: 5
    • Illuminating Powders/Creams: 2
    • Bronzers: 2
    • Blushes: 3
    • Highlighters: 6
    • Brows: 3
    • Eyeshadows: 3 palettes
    • Eyeliners: 5
    • Mascaras: 3
    • Lipstick/Balms: 10
    • Lip Liners: 2
    • Lip Glosses/Tints: 3
    • Makeup Removers: 3
    • Perfumes: 3
    • Nail Polish: 5

    Have you set any makeup goals for yourself or resolutions for the new year?

    Love,

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  • My New Beauty Budget | 2019

    December 19, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m going to share with you my new beauty budget for 2019 that I’ve calculated for myself. After reviewing, my 2017 and 2018 beauty expenses. I’ve spent about the same amount each year (about $2000). I’m going to aim for $1800 for beauty expenses for 2019. If I get to the end of the year under $1800, then that’s even better! I’ve looked up how much the average woman spends on makeup and skincare each year and most articles said about $3000-5000. I think those numbers include things like manicures, haircuts, waxing and other treatments. I usually only get my haircut once a year and I rarely get manicures.

    If you read my posts on my 2017 and 2018 beauty expenses, you’ll know that I spent $2000 (give or take). I am aiming to cut it down by $200 and hopefully as the years progress, I can get my beauty expenses down to $1000! One thing I want to change about my spending is WHERE I spend it. In 2017 and 2018, I bought a lot of products from drugstores and Winners. Discount prices from Winners are great, but they tend to be impulse buys. Also, if I don’t like the product, I can’t return it and although it’s cheaper than a high end product, it still adds up. When I make purchases from Sephora, I can easily return things. A lot of my impulse purchases are ones I’ve regretted (read my post on Products I Regret Buying).

    Right now, my expenses are high because I’m trying out different products to find what I like and what works for me. I’ve found a few products that have become favourites, but obviously, your favourites can change and you find new products you love even more.

    I’ve created a breakdown of how I think I will spend the $1800 budget. This is a rough estimate of what the different categories might cost. I think giving myself an overall budget for beauty is easier than doing the $25/month for my monthly blog allowance. I feel like I end up blogging about most of my products anyway.

    • Skincare products – $600
      • This category gets the most because I need acne products, eye creams, day/night products and toners
    • Primers – $120
      • Most primers that I buy are about $40-50, I should probably be good until June for primers
    • Foundations/Powders – $120
      • If anything, I will need to get a powder. I already bought a bunch of foundations last year
    • Concealer – $100
    • Eyeliners – $60
    • Brows – $100
      • It takes me a while to finish a brow pencil, so this budget is probably more for my brow gel
    • Mascara – $100
      • I only buy drugstore mascaras and I replace them every 3 months
    • Miscellaneous – $600
      • Makeup brushes and sponges
      • Products to review for the blog
      • Products that I don’t necessarily NEED, but WANT, i.e. a new lipstick or eyeshadow palette

    I didn’t include a section for eyeshadows, lip products, blushes, bronzers, nail polish or hair because I already have a lot of things that I should finish before buying new products in those categories. I didn’t include a perfume category, but whenever I need to buy one, I could probably include it in the miscellaneous section. Usually, I only have one or two at a time and I just bought one last year at the MAC Warehouse Sale.

    Do you have a beauty budget?

    Love,

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  • Review | Maybelline Lash Sensational Full Fan Effect Mascara

    December 12, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing another mascara! The Maybelline Lash Sensational Full Fan Effect Mascara. I decided to pick it up because I’ve seen so many amazing reviews and I heard that Meghan Markle uses the Luscious one from the Lash Sensational collection (that will be next on my list).

    It separates lashes really well giving the “full fan effect” and darkens my lashes. I applied the mascara to my lower lashes and they looked very natural (not spidery at all). If I run my finger under my lashes, you can definitely feel that you’re wearing mascara because the lashes are stiff. The mascara flaked a little bit when I rubbed my lashes.

    I like that the brush is curved, it helps lift my lashes. I used to not like silicone wands, but I’m coming around to them. This mascara and the CoverGirl LashBlast have made me like silicone wands more. I think I will do a This or That post comparing this mascara to the CoverGirl one.

    I have the washable mascara and it did not hold up after crying a bit. I was re-watching the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows movies and cried (obviously). I actually forgot I was wearing mascara and wiped away the tears. Later, I went to the bathroom and thought, “OMG! Why does it look like I have a black eye?” (That’s probably a bit dramatic; it didn’t really look like I had a black eye, maybe super bad dark circles). Then I remembered that I had mascara on. My lashes still kept the curl (I used my Shu Uemura lash curler before applying the mascara) despite getting damp from my tears.

    To test how well it curls and maintains a curl, I curled the lashes on my left eye and didn’t curl the right eyelashes. After 6 hours, the left lashes were still curled and even the right look like I had curled them because the mascara lifted them. When I was checking them, I did notice a few mascara flakes on my right lid. After 10 hours of wear, it had definitely smudged onto my under eye area and flaked off a bit.

    RATING: 5/5

    I can see why everyone loves this mascara so much! It has definitely been added to my faves list! I would be interested in trying the Luscious one because it says it makes your lashes feel soft. I think I also want to try the Total Temptation one with Coconut Oil.

    What’s your favourite mascara?

    Love,

    jen

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  • Reviewing My 2018 Beauty Expenses

    December 10, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I will be reviewing my 2018 beauty expenses. Last month, I reviewed my 2017 expenses and it was eye-opening. I was originally going to post this later in the month (closer to the new year), but I think I’ve spent enough money on makeup and skincare this year and I have all of the products I need. Last week, I started my self-imposed ban on buying makeup until next year. My goal is to not buy any makeup or skincare products until the next Sephora sale (the one they usually have in April).

    Check out my 2017 expenses!

    In comparison to my beauty expenses, I was curious to see how much I spent on clothing this year. I spent about $1200 on clothing, accessories and shoes (I think a good percentage of that was spent at La Senza – buying bras and underwear). My most expensive single purchase was my Michael Kors Daniela Large Crossbody Purse (almost $200 including tax- purchased on sale).

    My 6 Most Expensive Purchases:

    1. Sigma Essential Brush Kit (12 brushes) – $99 (from Winners)
    2. Tarte Maracuja Oil – $66 (25% off)
      • I got the super size bottle from Tarte (2x the regular size). It’s usually $88, but I got it during the Black Friday Sale
    3. Dior BACKSTAGE Face & Body Foundation – $50
    4. Lancome Skin Feels Good Skin Nourishing Foundation SPF23 – $45
    5. Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick – $44.80 (20% off)
    6. Lancome Teint Idole Longwear Foundation Stick SPF21 – $44 (20% off)

    I spent about $500 on skincare, $100 on makeup tools and $1600 on makeup for a total of about $2200. I bought a few foundations and primers this year, so I probably won’t be NEEDING any next year. I might be tempted to buy the Lancome Teint Miracle foundation next year, but I definitely don’t need any more primers.

    So, last year, 79% of my purchases were impulsive and only 21% were planned. This year, I did much better and planned vs. impulse purchases were 50/50. 

    Here’s a breakdown of WHERE I purchased my products this year. Last year, I purchased most of my products from the drugstore and the MAC Warehouse Sale. I didn’t go to the Warehouse Sale this year, but I have been purchasing more products from other websites/stores, i.e. Tarte, Tula and The Body Shop.

    Love,
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  • gummiband hair cords

    Revisiting My 2017 Favourites | Part 2

    December 7, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m revisiting my favourites from 2017. I’ve posted Part 1 of revisiting my Best of 2017 post (read here). There’s some overlap in my monthly favourites and Best of 2017 post, so if they aren’t listed below, they’re in that post.

    SEPTEMBER

    Maybelline Fit Me Concealer – When I used this, I never tried it as an under eye concealer. I need to buy it again and compare it to the Age Rewind Concealer.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Milani Color Statement Lipstick in 26 Nude Crème – I love the shade, but I don’t really like that it smells like a watermelon jolly rancher.

    Repurchase? Maybe.

    Milani Keep It Sweet Sugar Lip Scrub – Initially, I liked this, but I didn’t really like it after a while. It would just make the dead skin move back and forth and not slough it off.

    Repurchase? No.

    Milani Eye Tech Perfection Liquid Liner – This was a great liner, but I just don’t use liquid liner that much.

    Repurchase? No.

    Milani Retouch + Erase Light Lifting Concealer – I liked this concealer; it was thick, but it blended nicely.

    Repurchase? Maybe.

    Estee Lauder Pink Perfection Breast Cancer Awareness Kit – If you’ve read my post on Products I Regret Buying, this kit is on it. The eyeshadows were nice, but the shades they chose weren’t useful for me. I need a transition shade that’s matte and this didn’t have one. I did enjoy the lipstick, but not in the shade that came with it.

    Repurchase? Unavailable because it was limited edition. But I wouldn’t if it were still available.

    MAC Patentpolish Lip Pencil in Kittenish – I really like this lip pencil. It’s a hybrid of a balm and a lipstick.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    OCTOBER

    Garnier All-in-1 Cleansing Micellar Water – Love this!!

    Repurchase? Absolutely! I do want to try other ones first to see how they compare.

    NOVEMBER

    Clean and Clear Morning Burst Fruit Infusions Purifying Cleanser – I really liked this cleanser. It woke me up in the morning with the citrus scent.

    Repurchase? I don’t think you can buy this anymore.

    Dove Nutritive Solutions Coconut and Hydration Shampoo – So, a few years ago, I got eczema on my hands and legs and I stopped using a bunch of products to rule them out as a cause of the eczema. I stopped using Dove products and haven’t started using them again. I used to use Dove products all the time and had no problems, so I don’t think it was the cause, but I just haven’t purchased anything since I finished this shampoo.

    Repurchase? Maybe.

    Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler – I love this!! I wish I had bought this when I first started using lash curlers.

    Repurchase? YES!!!

    DECEMBER

    Tory Burch Perfume (Original) – I love this. It makes me feel grown up, but it’s not old lady-ish.

    Repurchase? Yes!

    GummiBand Hair Cords – I love these. I use them every day!

    Repurchase? Yes!

    Did you spot any of your favourites?

    Love,

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  • November 2018 Faves

    November 30, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    We’re starting this month with something a little different from my usual favourites. I think everyone is always on a quest to make their skin look healthy. Last year, I took spin classes for two weeks with my friends and I was drinking a lot of water then. My skin was probably the best it ever looked because I was staying hydrated. In October, I decided that I should make it a goal to drink the recommended daily intake of water (8 x 8 mL = about 2L).

    View this post on Instagram

    F E A T U R E F R I D A Y // Something a little different from my usual feature friday posts. Drinking enough water makes your skin look and feel hydrated. Drinking from a bottle or cold cup with a straw has really been helping me to take sips throughout the day and increase my water intake. (I'm using up the rest of our plastic straws right now, but will definitely be switching to reusable or paper straws in the future). Last month, I downloaded an app to help me keep track of my water intake and I think it's helped my skin a lot. Apart from the horrible breakout I'm healing from right now, my skin is a lot more hydrated and not as dry. #hydrate #water #featurefriday #friyay #tgif #discoverunder5k #skincare

    A post shared by Jen (@jencatbeauty) on

    Drinking from a bottle or cold cup with a straw has definitely helped me increase my water intake. (I’m using up the rest of our plastic straws right now, but will definitely be switching to reusable or paper straws in the future). I’ve also been cutting down on sugary drinks. I haven’t bought any 2L bottles of pop or juice in a long time. I mostly drink just water throughout the day and have one cup of tea. If I’m going out for dinner, I usually just get water, but occasionally, I will order a ginger ale or coke.

    Last month, I downloaded an app called Water Drink Reminder to help me keep track of my water intake and I think it’s helped my skin a lot. I just chose the first Water Tracker app that I liked the interface. I tried this plant one that had a cute plant and this other one, but both had spelling mistakes which drove me crazy. Apart from the horrible breakout I had at the beginning of this month, my skin is a lot more hydrated and not as dry.

    So far I’m loving this Kopari Coconut Deodorant. I haven’t done a rigorous workout with it, but I did some exercises to work up a sweat and it still smelled nice and coconut-ty.  I was wearing it for a whole day and I did notice that the scent had faded and I could start to smell a bit of sweat. So, I don’t think this would be good for a rigorous workout and you would definitely have to reapply during a hot day. It is a bit pricey, but deodorant lasts a while, so I think it will be worth it.

    Check out my full review

    The Etude House Lip & Eye Remover is awesome at taking off eye makeup. I use a cotton pad and it took off the majority of my eye makeup in one swipe. I don’t have waterproof mascara, so I don’t know how well it takes it off, but it’s great for regular, non-waterproof makeup.

    I can see why everyone loves the Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circle Concealer. I have the shade Light and it’s the perfect shade for my under eyes. It brightens and has a beautiful, natural finish. I took off the sponge because I just don’t think it’s hygienic. One twist is enough for both of my eyes now that the sponge is gone.

    Lately, I’ve been using the Tula Purifying Cleanser, Illuminating Face Serum and the Acne Clearing + Tone Correcting Gel. I was slowly incorporating the Tula products to my routine (just in case I have a reaction to one of the products). I still have to add the Pro-Glycolic Resurfacing Gel (which is a toner) and the Hydrating Day & Night Cream to the routine. I am very impressed by the acne gel because it’s one of the few salicylic acid products that hasn’t made my face red, irritated or puffy. Yay!! Usually, my face is fine with salicylic acid cleansers because it’s not on my face for very long. With salicylic acid products that you leave on overnight or during the day, I haven’t been so lucky. That’s why I was using tea tree oil products for a while. I still love my Body Shop tea tree oil products, but the smell is just so strong. So far, I am liking the Tula products I’ve tried. I will write a full review once I’ve started using the other 2 products.

    What were your fave this month?

    Love,

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  • Beauty Products I Regret Buying

    November 26, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m going to share some of the makeup and skincare products that I’ve regretted buying over the past couple years. Most of the products were impulsive and ever since writing my post on how I want to streamline my makeup collection (read it here), I’ve done my best to cut down on the impulse buying (especially for the blog).

    Bobbi Brown Bobbi On Trend Eyes & Cheek Palette

    While it’s a beautiful palette, the eyeshadows don’t wow me. Bobbi Brown isn’t necessarily known for amazing eyeshadows (like Urban Decay). The blushes and bronzer aren’t the right shade for me. The illuminating bronzer is chunky.

    NARS Sheer Glow Foundation in Deauville

    While I can’t say 100% if I liked or didn’t like this foundation, I know the shade was a terrible choice that made me look pale as a ghost. Because of the bad shade choice, I think it made me not like the foundation. I didn’t like that it had no pump. If I’m paying that much for a product, I want a pump

    Thayers Witch Hazel Toners

    Everyone loves this, so I thought I would too. I did like that they had unscented ones and I like that the spout on the lid wasn’t like other toners. Unfortunately, this made my skin breakout even more because of the witch hazel. I tried the Cucumber one and also bought the Unscented one. After using the Cucumber one though, I won’t even try the Unscented because I don’t want another breakout.

    L’Oreal Lash Paradise Mascara

    I knew it was like a dupe for Too Faced Better Than Sex and I just don’t like that mascara. It dries out too quickly and I don’t like the brush.

    The Estee Edit products

    I bought 3 different products: a blush, eyeshadow sticks and an illuminator. The shadow sticks are nice, but the blush I got was way too bright and the illuminator was no good.

    Formula X Polish The Twenty-Two Limited Edition Set

    It was just such a good deal, but I ended up giving away half of the shades and I never liked how skinny and round the brushes are; I prefer fat, flat ones.

    I also regret buying most of the products from the MAC Warehouse Sale when I first went. At least the products weren’t full price. I did my best to use up the products (even when I didn’t like them). Most of the products I purchased were the wrong shade, but it was a good way for me to find out if I like the formulas/applicators. I bought a lot of lipsticks because they were only $7.50 and at the time, the shades looked good. Most of the lip products I bought were way too coral/pink for me.

    • Estee Lauder Pink Perfection Kit for Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign
      • The blush is too pink and it’s shimmery
      • The eyeshadow shades are nice, but they didn’t have a nice transition matte in the quad
      • The lipstick- love the formula, not a good shade for me
    • GLAMGLOW THIRSTYCLEANSE Daily Hydrating Cleanser
    • Estee Lauder Double Wear Makeup To Go Liquid Compact in 1N2 Ecru
      • this one was accidental. I picked it up to look at it and I must’ve thrown it into my shopping bag when I was deciding and forgot about it.
    • MAC Lip Glass
      • I bought three different types of lip glosses by MAC and I didn’t like the doefoot applicator on this particular one. I do like the applicators on the Mineralize Glass and the Cremesheen glasses.
    • Estee Lauder Pure Color Envy Hi-Lustre Light Sculpting Lipstick
      • While I regret buying the shades I got, I did like the formula of the Estee Lauder lipsticks
    • MAC Huggable Lipcolours
      • These are similar to the Benefit Lip Balms. I liked the formula of the lip balm, but did not like the shades I chose
    • MAC x Helmut Netwon Point ‘n’ Shoot
      •   I was so mad that I bought one of these because it ended up being in the $20 charity bag (and you get two of them)
      • I didn’t like the shades, they were too cool for me
    • Mac x Star Trek Luna Luster Trip the Light Fantastic Powder
      • This was a bit chunky for my liking.
    • Smashbox Photo Filter Powder Foundation
      • I can’t even say whether I liked the formula of this powder because the shade I bought was too light. I can’t give it a fair review unless I bought the correct shade
      • The powder did feel very smooth though

    I’ve come to the realization that I don’t like palettes that have everything, i.e. blush, eyeshadows, bronzers, highlighters. Especially if the bronzer or blush is matte and then you get the shimmer from the highlighter on the matte blush/bronzer.

    What products have you regretted buying?

    Love,

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