Today, I have a review for a clay masque. I was generously sent the Ocean Mineral Complex Masque by Oceà Natural Skincare.
At Oceà we have one very simple goal: to shift the skin care industry to natural, safe, and effective ingredients that eliminate the need for harsh chemicals.
The masque comes in a glass pot and the masque itself has a whipped texture. It doesn’t have much of a smell, if anything it smells faintly of clay.
Deeply healing clays of Kaolin are infused with detoxifying ocean minerals to naturally clarify and exfoliate your skin.
Seaweed, Kelp, Irish Moss and Spirulina naturally restore your skin’s firmness and elasticity.
Safflower, Sweet Almond, Rice Brand and Grapeseed oils then provide the deep hydration your skin deserves!
This natural and organic product is gentle enough for all skin types and can be used several times per week.
RATING: 3/5
Since I have dry skin, I liked that this clay masque didn’t make my face feel dry after. My face felt nice and soft after using it, but I don’t know if it did anything to be honest. It didn’t exfoliate or bring out impurities like some clay masks I’ve tried. I like that it comes in a glass jar so I can re-use it after I finish the masque.
Today, I’m comparing two facial cotton pads: Shiseido’s cult fave vs. Quo Luxury Facial Cotton Pads (the dupe). Quo is the brand by Shoppers Drug Mart in Canada.
So, I’ve tested these two different facial cottons and love both of them. Both come with 165 cottons and based on the look of the packaging, the Quo is obviously a dupe of the Shiseido cottons. The Quo cotton pads sell for $7.50 and Shiseido cottons sell for $11.
One thing about the packaging: the Quo package has a pre-made tear, so you don’t need scissors to open and it closes like a ziploc bag. The Shiseido package needs scissors and does not have a slider.
I got my mom to do a blind test to see which one she likes. She preferred the Quo ones because they were softer (and also they were fatter – more layers). I tested them out and agree that the Quo ones are actually softer, but the Shiseido ones are stronger. When you try to tear them, it takes more force to pull the Shiseido ones apart and are therefore better to use for eye makeup (especially waterproof makeup). If you’re only wearing face makeup, the Quo ones are a great way to save some money. You can use the Quo ones for toner and removing face makeup, and buy the Shiseido ones for eye makeup.
WINNER: Quo Luxury Facial Cotton Pads
If you wear eye makeup and use micellar water instead of cleansing oils/balms, you will probably prefer the Shiseido ones since they are harder to rip and less likely to curl up on you. If you love the Shiseido ones and you live in Canada, I think it’s worth it to give the Quo ones a shot.
For me, the Shiseido ones are very nice and I see why so many people love them. I don’t wear heavy or waterproof eye makeup very often and when I do, I use a cleansing oil or balm to remove makeup instead of a cotton pad. I’d rather save $4.50 to spend on something else.
I was sent two deodorants from No Pong, an Australian brand. Here’s a little info from the website:
“pong” is an Australian/British term for an extremely strong, unpleasant smell.
No Pong is an extremely effective, All Natural Deodorant
Made from delicious, all natural ingredients, blended together to create a ridiculously effective, sweat resistant, all day deodorant that does exactly what it says on the tin!
Guaranteed to be 100% paraben, aluminium, cruelty and plastic free.
No Pong is simple to apply, just like a lotion or a sunscreen. Just take a dab on your fingertip, and apply to your armpit.
They currently sell two: one with baking soda and one without. I decided to try the low fragrance one without baking soda. The consistency is similar to a sunscreen; it’s thicker than a lotion, but not waxy like a balm. Based on how it looked before I touched it (like the top one in the picture), I thought it would feel more balmy, so I was surprised when it felt creamy.
It’s great that their deodorants have a gender-neutral scent. For me, I mostly smell the lemongrass which I’m not a huge fan of, but the deodorant works well and the scent is subtle enough that you can’t smell it (unless you apply too much). Obviously it’s not going to be like an anti-perspirant that will counteract sweat from a rigorous workout. But, I have sweated a little while wearing the deodorant and it help up well.
I noticed that when I accidentally used too much of it, I got that white residue under my arms (like when you wear anti-perspirant). You really only need a small amount.
RATING: 3.5/5
I like how compact it is and that there’s no aluminium, it’s affordable and there’s no added fragrance (only essential oil). I also like how there’s a no baking soda option because I have sensitive skin. I’m not a huge fan of the lemongrass scent and I don’t love that you need to use your finger to apply it. I always have to wash my hands after and before I apply it whereas a deodorant stick is easy to pop on without having the need to wash my hands before and after.
I’ve put the Original one into my 5K Instagram Giveaway because I already have another natural deodorant and didn’t want the ununsed one to go to waste before I got a chance to use it.
What’s your fave natural deodorant? Have you tried No Pong?
Today, I will be doing a first impressions review on some Bali Body products that I received from the brand. It’s an Australian brand…I think I’m getting contacted by Australian brands because I follow quite a few Australian beauty accounts on IG lol.
I love the pastel matte bottle for the bronzing lotion and the rose gold and champagne-y gold tubes of the BB Cream and Lip Balm are so pretty.
If you live in Canada like I do, it took exactly two weeks to arrive from their distribution centre in London.
Before I start the reviews, I’d like to mention that just because certain products don’t work for me, it doesn’t mean that they’re bad. I’m just very sensitive to certain scents (especially coconut) and these products all have a scent.
Coconut Lip Balm with SPF15
A Coconut Lip Balm with SPF15 to hydrate and plump the lips while providing long lasting protection.
This natural lip balm is packed with nourishing oils to smooth & repair dry & cracked lips day or night.
RATING: 3/5
I like that it comes in a squeezy tube with a plastic tip. As far as lip balms go, this is quite expensive when I’m used to buying Vaseline. This does feel very hydrating and makes your lips look very glossy, but not sticky. I would definitely throw this into my makeup bag to apply during the day. The coconut scent is a bit too strong for me to use at night time, but it’s okay during the day. I also don’t like the taste of it (not that I’m purposely eating it lol, but you know when you accidentally lick your lips or maybe you’re eating something and taste your lip balm).
BB Cream with SPF15
A multitasking beauty cream that combines hydrating skincare benefits to protect, correct and perfect the skin.
Treat your skin in one easy step with this light-weight ultra-hydrating BB cream that provides perfect natural coverage instantly, while giving a healthy dewy glow.
They have 4 shades: Fair, Natural, Tan and Dark
I received the shade Natural and after reading reviews, I was excited to try this BB Cream.
RATING: 2/5
I don’t have a lot of luck with BB Creams on their own. I need more coverage than what BB Creams offer because I have dark spots from acne. So, this isn’t the type of base product I’m looking for, but if you want a very light coverage with SPF, you’ll love this BB Cream.
Bronzing Lotion
This antioxidant-rich moisturiser will provide a hint of tint while smoothing the skin with Vitamin E and natural oils.
Enriched with organic caramel extract to provide an instant bronzed glow.
This product isn’t a self tanner. It’s a lotion that’s tinted to give you a temporary bronzed look. It will wash off in the shower, so I wouldn’t go to sleep with this lotion on.
Before using, make sure you exfoliated the night before because you want it to go on nice and smooth. It’s also better if you aren’t too hairy wherever you apply it. I applied it on my arms and the bronzing lotion was kind of collecting around my hairs. It dries pretty fast, so make sure to blend it in evenly. If you are wearing this, do NOT get it wet. A drop of water got on my arm and it obviously left a water drop in the ‘tan’.
RATING: 3/5
My skin felt moisturized with this lotion. But I have a very sensitive nose and I wasn’t a huge fan of the scent which smells like coconut and almond. It looks very intimidating when you squeeze it out of the bottle, but once you blend it out, it gives you a nice, bronzed glow. If you are pale like me, you will definitely see a difference. Personally, I think I would prefer to use a self-tanner that will stay on for a while instead of just a few hours.
Final Thoughts
I always love trying out new brands and I’m always grateful when I am sent products for review. While these products didn’t work for me, there are a lot of positive reviews on the site and other blogs that rave about Bali Body’s products.
I have another brow pencil comparison review for you! I have previously compared the Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil Ultra Fine Shape & Define with the NYX Micro Brow Pencil. Check it out below:
Today, I’m comparing the Benefit Precisely, My Brow with the Lancôme Brow Shaping Powdery Pencil.
Benefit, Precisely, My Brow Pencil Ultra Fine Shape & Define in 6
Available in 8 shades, twist-up & retractable pencil with a spoolie on the other end (mini doesn’t come with a spoolie).
This ultra-fine eyebrow pencil draws incredibly natural-looking, hair-like strokes that last 12 budge-proof hours.* A few strokes of the rich yet blendable colour will transform brows from shapeless & undefined to filled & defined eyebrows.
Lancôme Brow Shaping Powdery Pencil in 09 Soft Black
Available in 9 shades, needs to be sharpened & comes with a spoolie.
A powder pencil that softly fills in and defines brows with quick, easy strokes, and features a spoolie brush at the other end to help create a neatly-shaped, natural finish.
As the name suggests, this pencil is like a powder. It’s not waxy, it’s very much the same feel of the Benefit pencil, but your brows are filled in more because it mimics the look of using a powder.
The two shades (6 for Benefit and 09 Soft Black for Lancôme) are very close. It may not look like it in the picture, but when you just do a hair stroke, they look very similar. The Benefit one might be just a tad cooler (it might match 10 Black in the Lancôme). Both brow pencils are the same price at $32 CAD, but the Benefit one is probably a better value since you don’t have to sharpen it. I feel like you’ll lose a good amount of the Lancôme pencil when you sharpen it.
I have to say that the Lancôme’s spoolie is fatter, but it’s also firmer. Personally, I prefer the Benefit spoolie. The Benefit one is also easier to travel with since you don’t need to carry a sharpener.
WINNER (if you like the filled in look while still being natural): Lancôme Brow Shaping Powdery Pencil
WINNER (if you prefer hair-like strokes): Benefit Precisely, My Brow
I think it really depends on what you want. While the Lancôme pencil does fill in your brows, it still looks very natural and it’s easy to comb out if you make a mistake. For me, I don’t like brow pomade because it just scares me, but this is a good alternative for a starter. If you like powders, you might want to consider this pencil because it can fill in like a powder, but you get more precision with the pencil tip.
The first time I used the Lancôme pencil, my brows looked the best they’ve ever looked! A clear brow gel looks great with it because it already fills in the brows really well. With the Benefit pencil, it’s more precise so it’s useful for filling in gaps. The Benefit pencil can fill in your brows, but it just takes more time to do it since the pencil is so thin. Sometimes I go a bit overboard and my brows are just way too dark. I think I need to get a lighter shade in the Benefit one (especially if I were to use it on the head of the brow).
I know Lancôme has a Brow Define Pencil that’s similar to the Benefit one; it’s retractable and has a spoolie. I wonder how that one compares.
I would definitely repurchase both, but if you follow me on Instagram, you’ll know that I have #NoRepurchaseRule this year. Brow products take me a long time to finish, so I will probably just keep trying out different brow pencils until I’ve tried as many as possible. If you can believe it, I still haven’t tried the Anastasia brow products. I think those are next on the list!
Update: There aren’t any items listed on their Etsy shop.
I’m back with another review! I was generously sent two products from a new skincare brand called KORAI. It’s a Canadian brand that sells on Etsy. They currently sell the Cloud Cleanser and Amber Oil which are the two products I received.
Spoiler Alert: both products are awesome!
Amber Oil
Nourishing, fragrance-free, and multipurpose. Amber Oil can be used from head to toe. A full dropper can melt away a face of makeup or environmental pollutants. 2-4 drops on damp and clean skin can seal in moisture without the worry of clogging your pores.
Ingredients: Prunus amygdalus dulcis (sweet almond) oil, Rosa canina (rosehip) oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E Oil)
I’ve been using the Amber Oil on my hands and face and they both feel soft and smooth. It hasn’t clogged my pores and it has a very light scent which is great for me. I tried removing my makeup with it, but I didn’t like it. It did remove my makeup, but obviously, it didn’t rinse off very well since oil and water don’t mix. So I will stick to using it as a facial oil.
RATING: 5/5
Cloud Cleanser
• Deep cleansing • Sulfate free • Lightweight
How to Use: Apply 1-2 pumps into freshly washed hands and rub onto dry
skin in gentle circular motions for a minimum of one minute. Rinse with cool water and gently tap excess water into the skin until dry.
Featured Ingredients:
Authentic Ghanaian black soap contains ingredients that carry naturally anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is high in antioxidants, vitamin A and E. These nutrients aid in healing skin ailments like acne, eczema and psoriasis as well as balancing the skin’s tone and texture.
Cold-pressed vitamin E oil can block free radicals and replenish the skin’s natural oils which help slow the process of aging signs. It is also known for assisting in healing wounds, preventing/minimizing the appearance of scars, and moisturizing the skin.
Today, I’m doing a first impressions review with Joanna Vargas’ Exfoliating Mask. I was sent this for review and here are my thoughts:
An enzymatic exfoliating mask that sweeps skin clean for brilliance and glow.
Apply a thin layer to cleansed and dampened skin. Scrub gently for one minute or leave on as a mask for 15 minutes. Rinse with tepid water.
This mask looks like liquid gold. It’s more fluid than other exfoliating masks I’ve used which I’m not sure I love because I feel like I’ll accidentally use more than I need. It has a citrus scent mixed with a bit of sweetness.
The mask has something that has a sandy feel (I’m guessing it’s the Pumice/Volcanic Rock) which I’m not sure is the best for my sensitive skin. The first time I used it, I think I scrubbed a bit too hard and I noticed my face was a little red after and I hadn’t even scrubbed for a minute. I think it’s just a bit too rough on my skin (even when I do it gently), so I will probably use this for the body instead.
RATING: 2/5
While the mask made parts of my face feel soft, it made other parts feel really dry. I’m sorry to give it such a low rating, but there are more affordable exfoliating enzyme masks out there that are also more gentle on my skin.
Before you read this post, please remember that we all have difference preferences and skin types. These are MY hits, misses and likes. You might love something I don’t like or dislike something I love.
So, I received 6 products from Topbox Circle and I’ve tried them all out and here are my thoughts. First of all, I love the rose gold packaging of the products. The frosted glass of the foundation bottle is also beautiful.
HITS
Mattifying Pressed Setting Powder* – This mattifies and provides coverage nicely. It’s great to throw in the purse to touch up throughout the day.
Matte Pressed Bronzer* – I was intimidated by the shade of this, but if you use the right brush, it will diffuse and blend it out beautifully.
MISSES
Sheer Glow BB Cream* – Similar to the foundation, this provided no coverage and just made me look very dewy.
Luminous Sheer Liquid Foundation* (read my review) – This provided no coverage for me at all. It was like the BB Cream.
Sheer Glow Colour Balm* – This was patchy and I don’t like the taste/smell of this on my lips.
LIKES
Perfecting Primer* (read my review) – This primer was okay. It wasn’t the worst, but also wasn’t the best.
Liquid Foundation Brush* – I prefer using sponges, but this is a very nice brush and I would consider getting other brushes from Nude by Nature.
If I were to buy anything, I would get some of the Nude by Nature brushes, and I would get the powder products again. I will be giving the liquid foundation and BB cream to a friend who likes sheer coverage.
Have you tried Nude by Nature? What are your faves?
Love,
Products marked with * were sent to me for review.
I received a few products from Nude by Nature for testing purposes and I have the first honest review for you. Today, I’m reviewing the Luminous Sheer Liquid Foundation.
I have previously received the Perfecting Primer from Chick Advisor. I reviewed it on the blog: read my review.
A sheer liquid foundation that delivers light to medium coverage with a dewy radiant finish.
Benefits
Hydrating formula
Skin nourishing ingredients
Rich in vitamins and antioxidants
Helps fight visible signs of ageing
Fragrance-free
I love the frosted glass and rose gold packaging with the pump. I liked the dewy finish and the whipped texture of the foundation, but that’s about it. It just doesn’t work for me; it’s a good match for my ski tone (I received the shade N1 Shell Beige). The coverage is exactly as described: sheer. If you already have perfect skin and just want to add a bit of dewiness, then you might like this. I need something that is more buildable because I have redness under my nose and chin. If I’m wearing foundation, I want it to at least cover up a bit of the redness so that my concealer doesn’t have to do all of the work. I also found that it kind of dried weirdly where it would get patchy. This doesn’t have any added fragrance, so it smelled like paint. Also, since it’s so natural, it washes off really easily with water. Similar to the Burt’s Bees Goodness Glows Foundation which also rinses off with water. So, make sure you don’t get caught in the rain or to drench your face in setting spray.
RATING: 2/5
I didn’t even do a wear test because this foundation had barely any coverage, so anything I would be testing would be my concealer or powder.
Today, I’m reviewing products that I ordered from TULA skincare. I had been seeing TULA products all over Instagram and wanted to give them a try. The products are cruelty-free and they are formulated with probiotics. Now, I’m not a scientist and all I really know about probiotics is that it’s sometimes in yogurt and cheese. I know that it provides health benefits and help with digestive problems.
Pictures taken from TULA website
I purchased the Discovery Kit to start out. The products are all travel-sized and meant to last about a month. I also decided to buy the Acne Clearing + Tone Correcting Gel as well.
Since I had 5 new products, I wanted
to ease into using it just in case I had a reaction. I started with the
Purifying Cleanser, two weeks later, I started the Illuminating Face Serum,
Acne Clearing + Tone Correcting Gel. A few days later, I started the Pro-Glycolic
Resurfacing Gel and then a week after that, I started the Hydrating Day &
Night Cream.
Originally, I was using just the Tula
products, but since I started using the Hydrating Day & Night Cream last,
my face still felt fairly dry. So, I incorporated a few drops of the Tarte
Maracuja Oil to the routine.
For the Face Serum, Acne Gel and Resurfacing Gel, I use 1 pump for each application and just a dab of the Day & Night Cream. I used all products every day (AM & PM) until I finished them. They all lasted a little over a month.
When I started using the products, I had
a cluster of dark spots from clogged pores on my cheek. After I finished 3/5 of
the products, the dark spots were almost gone. My NARS Soft Matte Complete
Concealer used to be unable to cover them, but now, my foundation can conceal
what’s left. I don’t know if it was a result of the serum or the acne gel, but
I was very impressed. I expected that I’d have the dark spots for months until
they faded.
Purifying Face Cleanser $35
This refreshing probiotic gel cleanser goes deep into pores to remove impurities and helps condition skin, without stripping or over-drying.
RATING: 4.5/5
Hydrating Day & Night Cream $65
Delivers deep hydration to help revive dull skin. This nourishing cream, full of naturally derived probiotics and superfoods, reveals an even, glowing, youthful-looking complexion.
RATING: 4.5/5
Pro-Glycolic 10% pH Resurfacing Gel $42
This alcohol-free toner uses probiotics, glycolic acid, and beetroot extract to gently exfoliate the skin, leaving it looking smooth, hydrated and more even.
RATING: 5/5
Illuminating Face Serum $98
This lightweight serum expertly targets the appearance of dark spots, hyperpigmentation and dull skin, revealing a youthful glow and brightened complexion.
RATING: 5/5
Acne Clearing + Tone Correcting Gel $36
Clear skin, zero irritation. Our acne gel contains 2% salicylic acid to clear up acne, prevent breakouts & brighten marks left by past acne.
RATING: 5/5
I think out of all the products, the Hydrating Day & Night Cream is my least fave. Even though the texture is actually quite light, I think it’s a bit heavy for my skin. I also don’t love creams that come in pots; I would prefer a tube or bottle with a pump. I am going to try their gel creams to replace it.
I’ve finished all of the products from the Discovery Kit. I’ve reordered the Illuminating Face Serum and I also bought the Kefir Replenishing Cleansing Oil, Anti-Aging Discovery Kit. I want to slowly try all of the products that interest me. I didn’t repurchase the Pro-Glycolic 10% Resurfacing Gel because I still have 2/3 of my Pixi Glow Tonic left. Once I finish that, I will buy the Resurfacing Gel.
Once I’ve tried out the new products, I will write a new review.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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).
Today, I’m doing a review of the Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask. I got a sample of the very popular Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask. I have been seeing it everywhere on IG.
Lip Sleeping Mask has a softening balm texture that closely adheres to lips for quick absorption. Enriched with vitamin C and antioxidants, its Berry Mix Complex™ offers a nutritiously sweet and fragrant blend of raspberry, strawberry, cranberry, and blueberry extracts to indulge the senses. Its exclusive Moisture Wrap™ technology boasts hyaluronic acid and minerals to form a protective film over the lips to lock in moisture and active ingredients. A generous layer of this soothing mask at bedtime helps reduce flakiness so you can wake up to lips that feel refreshed, supple, and soft to the touch.
RATING: 5/5
I can see why people love it so much; unlike Vaseline, it doesn’t absorb into your lips after a few hours. It has the consistency and smell of a balm (made me think of Lip Smackers lip balms), but the look of a gloss (without the stickiness). It made my lips look smooth and plump from the shine and even though it’s scented, it doesn’t taste like anything. I put it on a few hours before I went to bed, so I was wearing it for about 12 hours and when I woke up, I could still feel a bit of the balm on my lips. I could probably get 3-4 uses out of the little sample, so, depending on the frequency of use, I assume the pot will last a very long time and make it worth the price.
Doing a bit of math…I got 7 uses out of the sample size, but I probably could’ve stretched it out to 10 if I used less. The full size pot is about 25 times as much as the sample, therefore the pot would last about 175-250 uses depending on how much you use each time. If you use this once a day, it should last at least 5 months (by my calculations…again, depends on how much you use).
Update: I’ve had the tub for a year now and I’ve barely made a dent. I don’t use it every single day. There was also a month or two where I didn’t use it because I was trying other products.
Today, I’m sharing some lipstick swatches with you! I was so excited to receive some products from L’Oréal. I received 4 shades of the Ultra Matte Lipstick and 3 of the Shine Lipsticks. All of them are gorgeous shades. Let’s start with the Ultra Mattes:
Find your perfect nude lipstick shade with intense hydration and a super matte finish. Color Riche Ultra Matte is a highly pigmented, ultra-rich matte collection curated with lip tone nude shades to enhance your natural hue. The end result, your rich nude lips but better. In one stroke, experience rich lip color and comfortable wear.
According to the website, they have 16 shades in this collection. The ones I received are the more nude shades.
Colour Riche Ultra Matte are formulated with silky oils providing intense hydration for all day comfort and wear, while feeling light on lips. A luxurious lipstick formulated with a light diffusing gel that brings a soft-focus focus effect on the lips, making lips appear smooth and matte without a dry look. From warm pink shades to skin flattering nudes, find the perfect nude hue.
974 Full-Blown Fawn, 978 All Out Pout, 981 Cutting Edge Cork, 983 Utmost Taupe
Personally, I prefer lipsticks with a bit of shine. I often have chapped lips, and as we all know, matte lipsticks emphasize how dry they already are. I did give the lipstick a try and it didn’t feel dry on the lips; drier than I prefer, but it felt like a comfortable matte lipstick. Obviously, since it’s not a liquid lipstick, it did transfer. To me, the lipsticks kind of smell the same as my J Lo one, but other people have said it smells different to the regular L’Oréal lipstick scent. So, if you don’t like the usual scent, give the testers a whiff before buying.
As much as I love L’Oréal lipsticks, I don’t think the Ultra Mattes are for me. So, let’s move onto a formula that I prefer: the Colour Riche Shine Lipstick.
These lipsticks are like a very pigmented balm. They are very hydrating and shiny. Similar to the Benefit Benebalm or the Dior Addict Lipstick. I actually think that the Colour Riche Shine Lipsticks could be a dupe for the Dior Addict Lipstick. The lipsticks have a slightly sweet scent that I can’t quite place (almost like candy).
Ultra-rich, ultra-radiant lipstick with glossy finish. Oil-infused formula for comfortable wear. In just one stroke, experience a hydrating and lasting shine effect, with rich colour pay-off.
I love the packaging of both lipsticks. The Ultra Mattes come in a soft matte nude tube. The texture is similar to NARS products where it feels super smooth. The packaging on the Shine lipsticks are my favourite L’Oréal lipstick tubes I think. The clear plastic has this quilted look that I just love.
Once I finish some of my current lipsticks, I will be picking up a Colour Riche Shine Lipstick. Varnished Rosewood, Glossy Fawn and Shining Peach look beautiful. After seeing Tati review the lipsticks, I loved those shades. I’ll have to swatch them at the drugstore to see which one actually suits me.
Have you tried the Colour Riche Lipsticks? What’s your fave shade?
