• L’Oréal Paris | My Hits & Misses

    July 31, 2023

    Hi Everyone!

    It’s been a while since I’ve posted on the blog. It’s also been a while since I’ve done a Hits & Misses post. So here are my thoughts on L’Oréal products. Some of the products I was gifted and marked with a *.

    Check out my other Hits & Misses posts!

    MAKEUP || Primers | Foundations | Powders | Concealers | Brows | Mascara

    SKINCARE || Eye Creams

    BRANDS || Bobbi Brown | Burt’s Bees | Maybelline | Nude by Nature | NYX | TULA | Volition Beauty

    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.

    HITS

    Voluminous Original Mascara – This is one of my favourite drugstore mascaras. I like the wand and it’s a good price. 

    Rouge Signature Liquid Lip Colour in I Create 416 – I love this shade and it’s a pretty comfortable matte liquid lipstick. Sometimes I’ll put a bit of gloss on in the middle.

    Colour Riche Shine Lipstick in Varnished Rosewood 904 (read my review) – I bought this one for my mom, it’s a really pretty shade and has a nice shine.

    LIKES

    Bambi Eye Mascara* – I liked this mascara, the shape of the tube made it a bit difficult to open. I don’t have dexterity issues, but someone who does might have trouble opening it.

    Telescopic Intense Lash Length Original Mascara – This is the gold tube one. It works well for bottom lashes.

    Brow Stylist Boost & Set Volumizing Brow Mascara (read my review) – This brow mascara was okay. I liked the small brush, but it made my brows feel crunchy.

    Magic Skin Beautifier BB Cream Anti-Redness (read my review) – My mom uses this anti-redness bb cream and it works well. I wish it came in different shades because it’s too brown for me. It also doesn’t smell that great.

    Color Riche Collection Exclusive Lipstick in J Lo’s Nude 370 – I used to looooove this lipstick. I didn’t really love the scent of the lipstick (I think it was the same as the regular Colour Riche lipsticks – either a baby powder scent or a bit floral). I went through 3 tubes of this until I decided to try other products. I prefer lip tints and balms or liquid lipsticks these days.

    Color Riche Oil-Infused Nail Lacquer in 554 Carmin Parisien* – Gorgeous shade and the brush works well. I could do without the rose scent of the polish though. I prefer the regular Color Riche Nail Lacquer (if they still sell that).

    Anti-Wrinkle + Firming Day Moisturizer Fragrance-Free* – This is the only skincare product I’ve liked from L’Oreal because it’s fragrance-free. It did a good job as a moisturizer too, but it’s almost the same price as a non-drugstore brand. So I’d rather use a serum or moisturizer from another brand. 

    Revitalift Triple Power LZR 7-day Treatment Replumping Ampoules* – These were interesting. I would prefer if they sold it in a bottle because it’s expensive for these 7 capsules.

    Le Colour Clear Toning Gloss* – I haven’t coloured my hair in years, so I can only judge the claims to make your hair shine. It did make my hair look very shiny and healthy.

    Dream Lengths 8-second(es) Wonder Water Lamellar Rinse-Out* (read my review) – It detangled hair well, but it didn’t last very long and it was expensive.

    MISSES

    Unfortunately, a lot of the skincare products has a heavy fragrance that gives me a headache, so I was unable to test how well the product actually worked. The serums were all quite tacky which I didn’t love. Here are 3 of their Revitalift serums that were too scented to try: 

    • Revitalift Derm Intensives 12% Pure Vitaminc C, E + Salicylic Acid Face Serum* – smells like that solution to clean the hair tools at a salon
    • Revitalift Hydrating Smoothing Serum* – smells like hairspray from what I remember
    • Revitalift Triple Power LZR 0.3% Pure Retinol Night Serum* – I may be mistaken, but I could’ve sworn that all of the serums had fragrance in them. Maybe there was another reason I didn’t like this one because it claims to be fragrance-free on the website

    Pure-Sugar Scrub for Oily Skin (Kiwi) – When I first tried this, I liked it, but I don’t really use scrubs on my face anymore because of my sensitive skin.

    Pure Clay Masks (Charcoal Brightening Mask for Dull Skin, Red Pore Minimizing 7 Exfoliating for Rough Skin, Green Mattifying Face Mask for Oily Skin)* – As I’ve gotten older, I’ve stopped using face masks as often out of laziness. I prefer to use a mask that I don’t have to clean off. Also, clay masks can make my skin feel dry and tight and I don’t need my skin to be drier (especially in the colder months).

    Concealer Infallible Full Wear, One-Swipe Complete Coverage Matte Finish – This one is too thick for my liking and just made my under eyes look cakey.

    Colour Riche Ultra Matte Lipstick* (read my review) – These were a bit too matte for my liking. I probably could’ve added a gloss or balm on top, but the shades I tried weren’t ones I would’ve personally chosen. So maybe if I had tried a shade that I like, I would like them better.

    Voluminous Lash Paradise Mascara – This is going to be a surprise for some people, but I do not like this mascara’s wand shape. I need a more cone-shaped wand or one that’s wider in the middle, not thinner. 

    I have an Excel sheet of products I’ve tried and whether I would repurchase them or not. I have a few L’Oreal products that I said I wouldn’t repurchase, but unfortunately, I didn’t write why lol, so these fall into that category:

    • Voluminous Original Primer – I could’ve sworn I tried this, but I can’t find it in my records anywhere. I know I tried a mascara primer, but I didn’t want to splurge on one, so I got this one. I remember not liking it because it made my lashes feel so heavy once I put mascara on. It was either this or the Tarte Opening Act Lash Primer.
    • Excellence Crème – I’m pretty sure I’ve used one of their hair colours. I don’t dye my hair often, but I tried a few box dyes a few years ago. So I don’t really have a reference for which ones are good
    • Dream Lengths Shampoo with Keratin and Castor Oil & Dream Lengths Conditioner* – All I wrote in my Excel sheet was “scent was too sweet”
    • Extraordinary Oil Shampoo Fine Coconut Oil – I’m guessing that I didn’t like the oil in it or I didn’t like the coconut scent.
    • EverPure Sulfate-Free Bond Strengthening Shampoo & Conditioner* – I usually stick to regular drugstore shampoo brands in bottles (sometimes I will occasionally buy an expensive one and use it for special occasions). I think I didn’t love the scent of this and it was expensive
    • Stylista #BeachWaves Texturizing Mist – I don’t like the feeling of a hair texturizer
    • Stylista #Curls Defining Spray – I remember this being quite fragranced

    I’ve tried a few discontinued products as well:

    • Sublime Soft Micellar Gelee Eye Makeup Remover (read my review)
    • Infallible Pro Contour Palette – This was the first contour palette I tried. I didn’t know what I was doing back then lol. I do remember the contour shade being a good ‘shadow’ shade though
    • Infallible Le Rouge Lipstick in 337 Refined Ruby – This was a pretty red (blue-red, not an orange-red), very shiny too

    While I’ve tried quite a bit from the brand, it also doesn’t seem like a lot once I’ve written it all down. I haven’t tried much of their face makeup, but I don’t feel tempted to try much from the brand. I have considered trying their foundations, but then I just end up trying other brands. Especially since drugstore prices have gone up and they’re comparable to brands at retail stores.

    Love,

    Read More
  • October 2022 Product Empties

    May-Oct 2022 Product Empties

    October 31, 2022

    Hi Everyone!

    I didn’t realize I was so behind on my monthly empties posts! Here’s what I finished during the spring and summer!

    Kiehl’s Ultimate Strength Hand Salve* – I wish I had known about this hand salve sooner. After trying it, I bought some for my family to try as well. My mom and sister get cracked hands in the winter. My mom said she had a crack on her thumb and it helped heal it faster than Vaseline. Whenever I forget to apply it, my hands are so dry. When I use this, my hands feel super soft.

    Repurchase? I already repurchased it and I’m on my second tube.

    How long does it last? I was sent the 200mL tube and it lasted 250 uses (most of the time, I used the same amount, but I used more in the winter). This last 8.5 months of daily use (applied at night only).

    Dove Deep Cleansing Cucumber & Green Tea Hand Wash – If you’ve tried Dove Shampoos, the hand wash smells exactly the same. I’m currently using the Deep Moisture one. They are nice hand washes that don’t irritate my skin. They come in bottles with a pump.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion – This is not moisturizing enough for me in warm weather, so I can’t imagine it being enough in the winter time. I prefer the Cerave Moisturizing Cream or Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion.

    Repurchase? No.

    Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash – This is an unscented body wash that’s super gentle. It does have a certain scent to it (smell from the natural ingredients). I think it’s the oatmeal, but you can’t really smell it on the body.

    Repurchase? Maybe.

    The Inkey List Omega Water Cream* – This gel cream was okay. I didn’t think it was anything special. I was hoping it would be similar to the Sonia Roselli Water Balm where it beads up like water, but it was different. I didn’t like the smell of it. It had this wet smell.

    Repurchase? No.

    How long does it last? 2 months.

    Youth to the People Triple Peptide + Cactus Oasis Serum* – I really liked this serum, but it seems like I finished it fairly quickly. The pump also tends to spurt product out (I don’t know if I had a defective one, but this also happened with the Retinal + Niacinamide one). Comparing this to a Volition Beauty serum with the same amount, I finished the YTTP serum a month faster. With the Volition serum, I was able to control the amount by doing a half drop, but you can’t control the amount with this pump (can’t do a half pump).

    Repurchase? Yes.

    How long does it last? The 30mL bottle lasted about 3 months of daily use (once a day, I mostly used one pump per use).

    Volition Beauty Skin Rhythm Balancing & Clearing Serum* – I was a bit skeptical about this one being able to help deal with hormonal acne, but when I used this, I noticed that my acne during that time of the month wasn’t as bad. I did still get some hormonal breakouts every now and then, but I think this definitely helped.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    How long does it last? I used the 35mL bottle for 5 months. For the first month or so, I was only using it at night, but then I started using it twice a day. A small drop was more than enough for each use and I would only apply it on my problem areas (nose, chin, jawline). It lasted 210 uses.

    Volition Beauty Yaupon Tea Glow Awakening Moisturizer* – I didn’t really notice a huge difference in my skin. It was kind of similar to the celery green cream to me. Both are nice, but I probably wouldn’t buy it. I prefer the volition products that come in bottles: serums and oil.

    Repurchase? Probably not.

    How long does it last? About 3 months. It’ll last longer depending on how much you use. I feel like I used quite a bit for each use.

    The Inkey List Tranexamic Acid Hyperpigmentation Treatment* – I didn’t notice a difference to my dark spots, but this gel wasn’t bad. My skin was pretty clear when I had this in my routine so I can’t say if it helped with new dark spots.

    Repurchase? Maybe.

    How long does it last? 2 months.

    Bolden Skincare Hydrating Cleanser* – It’s a nice cleanser, but I didn’t see anything special about it.

    Repurchase? No.

    Bolden Skincare Awake Under Eye Patch* – The eye patches were a nice selfcare item, but I didn’t notice my under eyes being brighter or anything. I think I would need to use them regularly for a longer period of time.

    Repurchase? No.

    How long does it last? It depends how often you use them. You could finish the pack of 10 in a week and a half or it could last a couple of weeks if you only use them every few days.

    PanOxyl Creamy Acne Wash – 4% Benzoyl Peroxide* – This was a nice acne wash with benzoyl peroxide. While it wouldn’t clear acne super quickly, it did help bring some painful underground ones to the surface. I would only use this on areas where I needed it. At 4%, it was gentle enough that it didn’t make my skin red and irritated.

    Repurchase? Maybe.

    How long does it last? About 4-5 months. I didn’t use it daily, but I used it when I needed it.  

    PanOxyl PM Overnight Spot Patches* – I did not like these. Read my This or That post on Acne Patches.

    Repurchase? No.

    How long does it last? It lasted about 3 months (I had some bad breakouts this summer).

    Nacific Fresh Herb Origin Spot Patch – These were good, but they are on the more expensive side (cost per patch). Again, check out my This or That post on Acne Patches to see a cost per patch breakdown of the pimple patches I’ve tried.

    Repurchase? No, there are others that are cheaper.

    Herbal Essences Tealightfully Clean Shampoo – I liked the fresh, clean scent from this shampoo.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Dove Daily Moisture Shampoo – My go-to shampoos are drugstore ones. I sometimes splurge on higher end ones or hair masks/treatments, but I don’t use those as often. I don’t style my hair that often and I haven’t dyed it in a long time, so I don’t need anything special for my hair.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    The Inkey List Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Scalp Scrub* – I really enjoyed this one. I don’t really do treatments with my hair since I don’t do much to it (don’t curl or straighten much, haven’t dyed it in a long time). I would do this scalp scrub every so often and I did notice that my scalp felt cleaner after using this scrub. It was gentle and I preferred it much more than a sample of the Drunk Elephant one I tried.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    How long does it last? It took me 10 months to finish the 150mL bottle, but I honestly don’t know if I used too much or too little each time. I’m pretty sure I used too much lol. I didn’t use this frequently so if you used this every couple weeks or so, it would only last a few months. Over the 10 months, I used it about 15 times. If you use quite a bit, it would last at least 6 months (using it every 2 weeks).

    Spot any favourites in my empties list?

    Love,

    Products marked with * were sent to me for review.

    Read More
  • thekshop.ca k-beauty haul

    Haul | K-Beauty Skincare from thekshop.ca

    June 29, 2022

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m sharing a K-beauty haul! I made an order from thekshop.ca…even though I have a lot of skincare to try already. Here’s what I ended up ordering:

    • Beauty of Joseon Green Plum Refreshing Cleanser | $18.99
    • Nacific Holiday-Edition Special Bundle (Cica) – NACIFIC X Stray Kids | $99
      • Fresh Cica Plus Clear Toner | $23.99
      • Fresh Cica Plus Clear Serum | $24.99
      • Fresh Cica Plus Clear Cream | $25.99
      • Vitamin C Newpair Cream (Spot Treatment) | $16.99
      • 2 x Fresh Herb Origin Clear Spot Patches (18 per pack) | $5.99 x 2 = $11.98
      • 8 Stray Kids Christmas Photocards
      • 8 Stray Kids The Comeback of Hologram Photocards
    • Klairs Fundamental Nourishing Eye Butter | $31.99
    • samples: 3 x Iunik Black Snail Restore Serum
    The photocards on the top are the holographic ones. That’s why there’s a rainbow across some of their faces.

    All the products in the Holiday bundle add up to $103.94 if you buy them separately. They also threw in the Nacific Salicylic Acid Clarifying Mask Pack ($3.99) which was a nice little bonus. They packaged the products individually, instead of sending them in the holiday box as pictured on their website. I was fine with this because it would be silly to pack a box in another box. Especially when each product also comes in boxes.  The photocards come in plastic sleeves to protect them. One thing I was worried about though was that they put an elastic around the cards to secure them. It creased the edges of the plastic sleeves a bit, but the photocards were fine. I think it would’ve been better to package the cards into a larger sleeve/bag to keep them together. You don’t want the photocards to get damaged, especially if you’re buying the skincare set just for the 16 photocards.

    I haven’t tried any of the products yet, but I look forward to trying all of them. I wanted to try Cica because I’ve read that it’s good for redness and irritation. My face has gotten clearer lately, but I still have redness around my nose.   

    Other skincare products I want to try in the future:

    • Beauty of Joseon Serums
    • Beauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm
    • Dear, Klairs – Midnight Blue Calming Cream
    • KraveBeauty Great Barrier Relief
    • KraveBeauty Kale-Lalu-yAHA
    • KraveBeauty Oat So Simple Water Cream

    I also wanted to get a lip product, but they didn’t have any of the shades in stock:

    • rom&nd Juicy Lasting Tint
    • rom&nd Zero Velvet Tint
    • Peripera Ink Mood Matte Tint
    • Etude House Fixing Tint

    Love,

    *All prices are in Canadian.

    Read More
  • volition beauty products

    Volition Beauty | My Hits & Misses

    May 26, 2022

    Hi Everyone!

    I’ve actually enjoyed all of the products that I’ve tried from Volition Beauty. So, I don’t really have any for MISSES. Although I’ve been sent a lot of the Volition products, I plan to repurchase some of them in the future.

    Check out my other Hits & Misses posts!

    MAKEUP || Primers | Foundations | Powders | Concealers | Brows | Mascara

    SKINCARE || Eye Creams

    BRANDS || Bobbi Brown | Burt’s Bees | L’Oréal | Maybelline | Nude by Nature | NYX | TULA

    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.

    HITS

    Strawberry-C Brightening Serum* (read my review) – I really liked this serum. My skin looked dewy and fresh after applying this serum.

    How long does it last? 1oz bottle – about 120 uses (half pump per use) = 4 months, once daily OR 2 months, twice daily

    Snow Mushroom Water Serum – I really liked this serum too. It does have a slight smell to it that I can’t really describe. It’s not strong and doesn’t linger though.

    How long does it last? 1oz bottle – about 10 uses (half pump per use) = 4 months, once daily OR 2 months, twice daily

    Unspottable Hibiscus Correcting Oil* – I really enjoyed this oil and it lasted about a year of daily use (twice a day). I think it did help fade a dark spot I had on my nose too.

    How long does it last? 1.1oz bottle – about 320 uses (1-2 drops per use) = 10 months (twice daily = about 4 drops daily). Drops are a single droplet, not a full dropper’s worth.

    Skin Rhythm Balancing & Clearing Serum* – This is a great product, but I think they should put it in a bottle with a pump. The product is so thick that the dropper mechanism is harder to use (comparing it to the unspottable hibiscus correcting oil’s dropper, it sticks more). I had a painful pimple on my chin and I used this for two days and it was no longer painful and angry. It also didn’t feel dry or itchy.

    How long does it last? 1.1oz bottle – I’m still using this one, but it’ll probably last a while. The consistency of this serum is different from the oil and I use it as more of a spot treatment to target the areas with hormonal acne and acne scars

     

    LIKES

    Yaupon Tea Glow-Awakening Moisturizer* – This moisturizer has been perfect for the spring weather. I’ve been keeping my morning routine fairly simple with this moisturizer, the Skin Rhythm Balancing & Clearing Serum and an eye cream. It has this gel cream texture that makes it bouncy.

    How long does it last? 2oz pot – I’m still using this one, but using the other products’ calculations, it should last 3-4 months.

    Neroli Complete Crème* – I think this one is meant for oily and/or aging skin. While it was nice and it had a pleasant scent, I prefer the serums from the brand more.

    How long does it last? 1.7oz pot – Since it comes in a pot, it’s easier to use more or less each time. I used it once a day. It took me about 2-3 months to use.

    Celery Green Cream* (read my review) – This is more geared toward oily skin so it didn’t quite give me the hydration that I need for my dry skin.

    How long does it last? 1.7oz pot – Since it comes in a pot, it’s easier to use more or less each time. I think I used it once a day. It took me about 2-3 months to use.

    Helix AM/PM Eye Gel (read my review) – I didn’t dislike this, but it was more of a silicone/smoothing eye cream than a hydrating or moisturizing one. I didn’t get to try it under makeup which I wish I had. For a while, I only used this eye cream for morning and night. I think if I used a different eye cream during night time, this might’ve worked for me. Also, I probably should’ve tried it during a warmer season because my under eyes get dry in the winter and this eye gel did nothing to help it. I previously purchased this eye gel when they sold it in a pot. They now sell it in a bottle with a pump.

    How long does it last? 0.5oz pot – For a couple months, I used this in the morning and night and then I added another eye cream. So it lasted about 4 months. It could probably be stretched to 5 or 6 if you only use it once a day.

    I don’t really have any products on my wishlist. I’ve tried all the ones I wanted so far. The Orangesicle Balancing Daily Cleanser sounds nice, but lately I prefer using a cleansing balm as my first cleanse and the Cetaphil or Cerave cleansers for my second. I don’t really want to spend more than $20 on a daily cleanser. 

    Love,

    Products marked with * were gifted to me. Illustrations on featured image by me.

    Read More
  • april skincare empties

    Feb-Mar-Apr 2022 Product Empties

    May 10, 2022

    Hi Everyone!

    Live Clean Cool and Fresh Deodorant – I liked this deodorant, it smelled fresh. I had to declutter since I had it for too long though.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    How long does it last? Don’t know, I had to declutter it since it dried out.

    The Beauty of Eczema Skin Wash* – Sometimes the body wash had random globs of product (similar to when paint dries in a bottle). This body wash was a bit runny so I think I used more than I needed to use.

    Repurchase? No.

    How long does it last? The 200mL tube lasted two months.

    The Beauty of Eczema Bathing Oil* – I used it once a week to relax. I don’t know if I used a lot. Once I found out how much it cost, I made sure to use less. You can either pour it into a running bath or apply directly to your skin and then rinse it off. I think the best way to figure out how much to use is to apply it to your body. When I first read the words ‘oil,’ I was a bit unsure about it, but when I read the directions, I found out it turns into a milk.  

    Repurchase? Maybe.

    How long does it last? The 200mL bottle lasted two months (about 10 uses).

    Amika Soulfood Nourishing Hair Mask – I love the scent of this hair mask. I don’t use it too often though since it’s expensive.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    How long does it last? I had it for a year because I kept forgetting about it. I started using more of it later on. I recorded that I used it 20 times, but that could probably be doubled. I think I was using a lot.

    Kiehl’s Calendula Herbal-Extract Toner Alcohol-Free* (read my review) – I found the petals in the toner unnecessary. I did notice that I didn’t have as much redness when I used this, but I don’t know if it was just because of the toner or if it was other products I used too.

    Repurchase? No.

    How long does it last? I had some compressed, dry sheet masks lying around, so I started using them with the toner. I think I used this toner quite generously. I will add a few uses to mine. I would say this 250mL bottle would last about 6 months. 

    La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Anti-Aging Serum* (read my review) – This serum was too scented. I got a headache from it, so I started using it on my feet. I would apply it after a shower and then put socks on. My feet did feel smooth while using it.

    Repurchase? No.

    How long does it last? I can’t say how long it would last since I didn’t use on my  face.

    La Roche-Posay Lipikar Baume AP+M Eco Tube* (read my review) – I wasn’t a fan of the smell (it smelled like school glue). I also used it up quickly.

    Repurchase? No.

    How long does it last? The 200mL tube lasted for a month of daily use (full body). I cut it open when nothing came out after squeezing the tube, I got a few days’ worth of product.

    The Inkey List Hyaluronic Acid Cleanser* – I didn’t find anything special about this cleanser. I would rather use the more affordable Cetaphil or Cerave cleanser that comes with a pump.

    Repurchase? No.

    How long does it last? This cleanser was more fluid than others (Cerave, Cetaphil), I feel like I tend to waste more when it’s fluid. Especially when it’s in a bottle with a cap that you turn sideways/upside down, it just flows out easily. This 150mL bottle lasted about 4 months.

    What have you finished lately?

    Love,

    Products marked with * were sent to me to try.

    Read More
  • skinceuticals Blemish + Age Defense

    First Impressions with SkinCeuticals

    October 4, 2021

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing two products I received from SkinCeuticals. I know I included these in my empties posts, but I thought I would do a separate review. I received the Blemish + Age Defense Potent Treatment for Aging Skin and Phlorectin CF. I had heard of @skinceuticalsca before, but didn’t know a lot about the brand. Their mission is to “provide advanced skincare backed by science.” Thanks to @bnation_bicom and @skinceuticalsca I get to try these two products out.

    Their products come in simple packaging which I don’t mind. While it’s fun to take pictures of pretty skincare bottles, I’d rather spend my money on effective products than pretty pink/blue/purple packaging.

    SkinCeuticals Blemish + Age Defense Potent Treatment for Aging Skin

    Skin Type: Oily, Combination

    Skin Concern: Acne, Aging

    Blemish + Age Defense is an oil-free, targeted approach for aging and blemished-prone skin. This first-to-market acid blend uniquely combines 2% dioic acid with an optimal alpha- and beta-hydroxy acid formulation to reduce the formation of acne and clogged pores, while improving the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and uneven skin tone.

    Ingredients

    Active: Salicylic Acid 1.5%.

    Inactive: Alcohol Denat., Water, Methylpropanediol, Glycolic Acid, Diisopropyl Adipate, Octadecenedioic Acid, Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid, Citric Acid, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Polyquaternium-10

    Retails for $112 CAD on the SkinCeuticals.ca website

    RATING: 4/5

    I did notice that my skin looked better while using this and it didn’t make my skin too dry or too oily. Since my skin is already dry, I made sure to use a hydrating serum with it and I only used it on my problem areas instead of using on my whole face (to save product). 

    I used a couple of drops morning and night. I like that it doesn’t have a scent. When you first put it on, you can smell the Alcohol in it (that’s the ingredient that’s listed first), but the alcohol smell dissipates after applying it. Unlike some other acne care products, this treatment doesn’t feel as tacky as other products I’ve tried and I like that. It’s one of the few products I’ve tried that has salicylic acid that hasn’t made my face red and/or itchy after using it. I can’t say how well it works for anti-aging since I don’t have wrinkles or fine lines. Before using this product, I have had a bit of texture on my forehead, I don’t know if it was from products I was testing out or diet (or maybe a bit of both). While I used this product, my forehead cleared up.

    Skinceuticals Phlorectin CF

    Phloretin CF features a patented unique combination of 2% phloretin, 10% pure vitamin C (l-ascorbic acid), and 0.5% ferulic acid for enhanced protection against atmospheric skin aging – environmental stressor damage and premature signs of aging caused by free radicals from infrared radiation (IRA), UVA/UVB, and ozone pollution (O3). In addition to antioxidant protective benefits, Phloretin CF visibly enhances the appearance of discoloration, reduces fine lines and uneven skin tone.

    Skin Type: Normal, Oily, Combination

    Skin Concern: Discoloration, Acne, Aging

    Ingredients: Aqua/water/eau, dipropylene glycol, alcohol denat., ascorbic acid, butylene glycol, triethyl citrate, phloretin, ferulic acid

    Retails for $190 CAD on the Skinceuticals.ca website

    RATING: 2/5

    This product isn’t really geared towards my skin type since I have dry skin. I didn’t like the smell of this one. It smelled sweet like brown sugar. It also made my face feel tacky the whole day and I didn’t notice a huge difference in my skin either. Even if this was a more reasonable price (it’s $190 CAD for 30 mL), I wouldn’t purchase because of the scent.

    I think I would consider using SkinCeuticals products when I’m a bit older since they are quite expensive. I might consider repurchasing the Blemish + Age Defense serum again.

    Have you tried SkinCeuticals products? Did you think they were worth the high price?

    Love,

    *Products were sent to me for review. Ingredients and descriptions in Italics were taken from the SkinCeuticals.ca website.

    Read More
  • Youth to the People 15% Vitamin C + Clean Caffeine Energy Serum

    Review | Youth to the People 15% Vitamin C + Clean Caffeine Energy Serum

    September 5, 2021

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing the Youth to the People 15% Vitamin C + Clean Caffeine Energy Serum.

    Elevate your morning routine. This first-of-its-kind clinical-grade 15% vitamin C serum is boosted with clean, plant-derived caffeine from superleafs yerba mate and guayusa to immediately brighten, visibly reduce morning puffiness, and hydrate.

    • 15% Vitamin C Complex: Visibly brightens to reduce the look of hyperpigmentation give skin a firmer appearance
    • Yerba Mate and Guayusa (Clean Caffeine): Naturally high in caffeine and antioxidants to visibly depuff and contour
    • Passion and Dragon Fruit: High in antioxidants to help scavenge for free radicals and replenish moisture

    How to Use: In the morning, apply 2-4 pumps to cleansed face and neck. Follow with Superfood Air-Whip Moisture Cream or Adaptogen Deep Moisture Cream. With daily use, this super dose of antioxidants helps reduce the look of hyperpigmentation, even skin tone, and visibly firm.

    Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C), Propanediol, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Citrate, Squalane, Triethyl Citrate, Gluconolactone, Citric Acid, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Polyglyceryl-6 Polyricinoleate, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Sodium Benzoate, Lauroyl Lysine, Passiflora Edulis (Passion Fruit) Extract, Sclerotium Gum, Lecithin, Ilex Paraguariensis (Yerba Mate) Leaf Extract, Ilex Guayusa (Guayusa) Leaf Extract, Pullulan, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (Vitamin C), Mannitol, Hylocereus Undatus (Dragon Fruit) Fruit Extract, Ergothioneine, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil, Calcium Gluconate, Silica, Potassium Sorbate

    It retails for $90 CAD (1.0 oz)

    RATING: 3/5

    I like that it comes in a glass container with a pump. The spout has a bit of a lip on it where the serum tends to collect and dry down. So I often have to use my finger to wipe it clean which I find a little annoying. Also, I don’t know if I have a faulty pump, but instead of pumping out smoothly (I can hear it make a sound) onto my hand, sometimes the product spurts out.

    I’ve been using it for a while now and I haven’t noticed anything different in my skin. To me, it just feels like a serum which is quite expensive for $90. I haven’t noticed any pilling with the products I use, but this serum can make your face a bit tacky. Most vitamin C products I’ve tried have a citrus scent, so I was surprised when I smelled this serum. It smells like ginger, but it’s a light, pleasant smell that isn’t overpowering. Considering the price, I wouldn’t purchase this when I’m finished this bottle.

    What’s your favourite Youth to the People product?

    Love,

    Read More
  • Revisiting my 2019 Favourites

    Revisiting My 2019 Favourites

    February 2, 2021

    Hi Everyone!

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

    Check out my other posts revisiting my old favourites!

    Revisiting My 2017 Favourites

    Part 1 | Part 2

    Revisiting My 2018 Favourites

    Part 1 | Part 2

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

    Revisiting My Old Beauty Favourites

    January/February

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

    Repurchase? Maybe.

    CoverGirl LashBlast Volume Mascara (read my review)

    Repurchase? Maybe.

    Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder in 15 Light

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Smashbox Photo Finish Primerizer

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

    Lancôme Brow Powdery Shaping Pencil in 09 Soft Black

    Repurchase? No.

    March/April

    Lancôme L’Absolu Lacquer Lip Gloss in 236 Pour Toujours

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil

    Repurchase? No.

    May/June

    Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder in Medium

    Repurchase? No.

    Sigma F30 Large Powder Brush

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Colourpop Super Shock Shadows

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

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

    Repurchase? No.

    Laneige Lip Glowy Balm in Grapefruit

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

    Jouer Essential Lip Enhancer Balm

    Repurchase? Yes.

    July/August

    Bare Minerals Gen Nude Powder Blush in That Peach Tho

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Perricone MD No Lip Gloss Lip Gloss*

    Repurchase? No.

    Touch In Sol No Poreblem Primer

    Repurchase? No.

    Cinema Secrets Makeup Brush Cleaner

    Repurchase? No.

    Eczema Honey Nut-Free Skin-Soothing Cream*

    Repurchase? Probably not.

    Colourpop Brow Boss Gel in Clear

    Repurchase? Yes.

    September/October

    Dolce & Gabbana 3 L’Imperatrice Eau De Toilette

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Goldfaden MD Bright Eyes*

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Sephora PRO Featherweight Powder Brush #91

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Hourglass Veil Translucent Setting Powder

    Repurchase? Yes.

    November/December

    Volition Beauty Strawberry-C Brightening Serum*

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Ole Henriksen Banana Bright Eye Crème

    Repurchase? Maybe.

    Good Molecules Ultra-Hydrating Facial Oil*

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Do you spot any of your favourites?

    Love,

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

    Read More
  • concealers & colour correctors

    Concealers & Colour Correctors | My Hits & Misses

    April 3, 2020

    Hi Everyone!

    I’m sharing my hits and misses for concealers and colour correctors that I’ve tried.

    Check out my other Hits & Misses posts!

    MAKEUP || Primers | Foundations | Powders | Brows | Mascara

    SKINCARE || Eye Creams

    BRANDS || Bobbi Brown | Burt’s Bees | L’Oréal | Maybelline | Nude by Nature | NYX | TULA | Volition Beauty

    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.

    HITS

    Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer – This has become one of my favourites. I still need to try the Radiant Creamy Concealer.

    Maybelline Fit Me Concealer – This is a great concealer, but it needs more shades.

    Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer – This is another great concealer from Maybelline, but I feel like I finished it really quickly compared to other concealers.

    Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Concealer – Love this concealer and would definitely repurchase.

    Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Self-Setting Concealer – I really enjoyed this concealer and would definitely repurchase.

    concealers

    LIKES

    Rimmel Wake Me Up Concealer – I tried this before I started beauty blogging so I never tested it out in different ways. I really enjoyed it, but I need to try it again to see if I would bump it up to my “Hits List.”

    Cle de Peau Concealer – This is a really nice concealer, but I don’t think it’s worth it for me.

    Coastal Scents Eclipse Palette (read my review) – I liked the colour correcting shades from this palette.

    Milani Retouch + Erase Light-Lifting Concealer – I liked this concealer, but it needs more shades.

    Colourpop No Filter Concealer – I know this concealer is affordable, but it’s hard to find the perfect shade match online. Also, this concealer oxidizes which I didn’t love.

    Cover FX Correct Click Color Corrector in Brick – A Sephora associate suggested this corrector to cover a dark spot I had on my leg for my sister’s wedding. It was a very nice, blendable corrector when I bought it in 2016.   

    Hard Candy Sheer Envy Concealer Palette – I liked the colour correcting shades in this palette. It was very emollient and not too thick. The concealer shades weren’t quite right (even when I tried to mix them to get my shade).

    Urban Decay Naked Skin Color Correcting Fluid in Green – I liked this colour corrector. It was nice and creamy.

    RMS Beauty Un-Cover Up – I liked this concealer, but it started to smell different after a few months.

    Maybelline Super Stay Better Skin Concealer – This concealer was okay, but I prefer the Fit Me Concealer.

    NYX HD Photogenic Concealer in Green – The shade of this colour corrector is very minty-green compared to the Urban Decay one (see swatches).

    Physician’s Formula Concealer Twins 2-in-1 Correct and Cover Cream – I tried this when I was first getting into makeup. It was a great starter concealer and colour corrector.

    concealers

    MISSES

    Marcelle CC Concealer + Corrector (read my review) – This was probably the worst concealer I ever tried. It was gritty!

    Bobbi Brown Intensive Skin Serum Concealer – This was too thin to provide any coverage for me. It also settled into lines and made my dry under eyes look even drier.

    Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Wear Camouflage Concealer – This was way too tacky for me. I also got the wrong shade in this one.

    Revlon Colorstay Concealer – I didn’t like the smell of this concealer. It was an okay concealer, but it doesn’t have a very wide shade range.

    Tarte Shape Tape Contour Concealer – This is an unpopular opinion, but I don’t like this concealer at all. This is too full coverage for me and the scent is way too strong for me.

    Sephora Bright Future Color Corrector (read my review) – I didn’t like this colour corrector.

    Cover FX Correct Click Color Corrector in Yellow – I don’t know if they changed the formula since I purchased the shade Brick in 2016, but the Yellow would pull on my skin and it wasn’t as blendable.

    Concealers I Own, but Haven’t Used

    • Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer in Neutralizer
    • Laura Mercier Secret Concealer

    To Try

    • Bare Minerals BARESKIN Complete Coverage Serum Concealer
    • Bare Minerals BAREPRO 16-Hr Full Coverage Concealer
    • Charlotte Tilbury Magic Away Concealer
    • First Aid Hello FAB Bendy Avocado Concealer
    • Ilia True Skin Serum Concealer
    • Kosas Revealer Concealer Super Creamy + Brightening Concealer
    • Milk Flex Concealer
    • Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer
    • Revlon PhotoReady Candid Antioxidant Concealer
    • Too Faced Born This Way Super Coverage Multi-Use Sculpting Concealer

    What are your fave concealers?

    Love,

    Read More

  • 2020 Beauty Wishlist

    March 3, 2020

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m sharing some brands and their products that I have on my wishlist. Most of the products I want to try aren’t new, but I haven’t had a chance to try yet. I wanted to cut down on my makeup buying this year and finish up what I have before buying more. I have a lot of lip and cheek products on this list.

    Biossance

    • Squalane + Peptide Eye Gel
    • Squalane + Probiotic Gel Moisturizer
    • Squalane + Rose Vegan Lip Balm
    • Squalane + Tea Tree Balancing Oil
    • Squalane + Vitamin C Rose Oil

    I might get the Top Shelfies Kit from Sephora since it has 3/5 items I want to try.

    Briogeo

    I’ve only tried a sample of Briogeo and that was a long time ago.

    • Be Gentle Be Kind Banana + Coconut Nourishing Superfood Shampoo & Conditioner
    • Be Gentle Be Kind Kale + Apple Replenishing Superfood Shampoo & Conditioner
    • Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask
    • Scalp Revival Charcoal + Coconut Oil Micro-exfoliating Shampoo

    Charlotte Tilbury

    • Eyes to Mesmerize Cream Eyeshadow
    • Hollywood Contour Wand
    • Hollywood Flawless Filter
    • K.I.S.S.I.N.G Lipstick
    • Lip Cheat
    • Magic Vanish Color Corrector

    I’ve only tried two products from Charlotte Tilbury. While I do like both, I’m not sure I would repurchase them (Legendary Brows Eyebrow Gel and Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder).

    Em Cosmetics

    • Color Drops Serum Blush
    • Micro-Fluff Sculpting Brow Cream
    • True Gloss

    Glossier

    • Balm Dot Com
    • Boy Brow
    • Cloud Paint

    Jouer

    • Blush Bouquet Dual Blush Palette
    • Essential High Coverage Concealer Pen
    • Essential Lip Enhancer Shine Balm
    • Soft Focus Hydrate + Set Powder
    • Sunswept Bronzer Duo

    I might get the Essential Lip Care Duo since I like the Essential Lip Enhancer Balm.

    Lilah B

    • Divine Duo Lip & Cheek
    • Lovingly Lip Tinted Lip Oil

    Volition Beauty

    • Hibiscus Unspottable Correcting Oil
    • Snow Mushroom Water Serum

    Wander Beauty

    • Mile High Club Mascara

    This mascara is a favourite for a lot of people. I don’t usually like to spend more than $15 for a mascara, but I might consider trying it once to see if I like it.

    YSL

    • Glossy Stain Lip Color
    • Rouge Volupté Shine Oil-in-Stick Lipstick
    • Tatouage Couture Liquid Matte Lip Stain

    There’s more on my wishlist, but these are a few I’m considering trying this year.

    What’s on your wishlist?

    Love,

    Read More
  • december 2019 empties

    December 2019 Product Empties

    December 31, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Here are my last empties of the DECADE!

    Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil – I started using this as a facial oil because I kept forgetting about using it to prime my face. It also started to smell funny and I had to declutter it.

    Repurchase? Probably not.

    Make Up For Ever Step 1 Equalizing Primer (Nourishing) – This was a nice primer that smells good, but it isn’t my favourite hydrating primer. I prefer the Smashbox Primerizer.

    Repurchase? Probably not.

    Garnier SkinActive All-in-1 Cleansing Water – I don’t use waterproof makeup, so the pink micellar water works well for me.

    Repurchase? Absolutely.

    Banila Co. Clean It Zero Original Cleansing Balm – This was a nice cleansing balm that removed my makeup well. I don’t use waterproof makeup, so I can’t say if it’s good for that. I didn’t love how scented it was though. I’d rather pay a bit more for an unscented one even though it’s only on my face for a short time.

    Repurchase? Probably not.

    COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches (read my review) – These were the first acne patches I tried. They will always have a special place in my heart because of that, but I’ve started to prefer the Rael patches (read my comparison post).

    Repurchase? I would definitely still buy them, but as long as I can get the Rael ones, I think I’d prefer those.

    L:A Bruket Hand & Body Wash in Lemongrass* – I didn’t mind the hand/body wash itself, but I’m not the biggest fan of lemongrass scent. I would prefer one of their other scents.

    Repurchase? Probably not.

    Volition Beauty Strawberry-C Brightening Serum* (read my review) – Loved this serum! That’s all I have to say.

    Repurchase? YES!

    Good Molecules Ultra Hydrating Facial Oil* – I enjoyed this facial oil. For extra hydration, I would mix it with my Volition serum.

    Repurchase? Yes.

    Love,

    Products marked with (*) were gifted to me.

    Read More
  • volition beauty strawberry c brightening serum

    Review | Volition Beauty Strawberry-C Brightening Serum

    December 4, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today I’m reviewing the Volition Beauty Strawberry-C Brightening Serum. I received this product complimentary, but all opinions are my own.

    A brightening serum powered by strawberry-derived vitamin C for noticeable radiance, hydration, and even-toned skin.

    Strawberries contain 14% more Vitamin C than an orange and they’re packed with antioxidants! Strawberry seed extract brightens skin and helps even skin tone, and vitamin C helps boost your skin’s collagen production for plumper, firmer skin.

    Ingredients: Water, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Water, Glycerin, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Fragaria Ananassa (Strawberry) Seed Extract, Fragaria Vesca (Strawberry) Fruit Extract, Sea Water, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract, Propanediol, Bentonite, Picea Abies Extract, Carbomer, Aminomethyl Propanol, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Phytate, Leuconostoc Ferment Filtrate, Citric Acid, Iron Oxides (CI 77491), Iron Oxides (CI 77499)

    After using this daily for over a month, here are my thoughts. I love the texture of this serum. After applying it, my skin looks dewy and fresh. Since it’s winter, I add in a few drops of facial oil. It smells a bit more like radish than strawberries to me which isn’t a big deal because strawberries might be too sweet. The smell doesn’t linger which I love. So far I’m loving this!

    RATING: 5/5

    Before receiving this from Volition Beauty, I was planning to buy it. I would definitely purchase this once I finish this bottle. I prefer it over the Celery Green Cream (read my review).

    Have you tried Volition Beauty?

    Love,

    *This was gifted to me by Volition Beauty.

    Read More
  • Perricone MD Cold Plasma+ Face

    Review | Perricone MD Cold Plasma+ Face Serum

    September 25, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m reviewing the Perricone MD Cold Plasma+ Face that I received from Calissa.com.

    A multi-tasking powerhouse, this advanced face serum concentrate promotes the 9 most visible signs of healthy, youthful-looking skin. Targets and dramatically improves loss of radiance, uneven texture, uneven tone, discoloration, redness, enlarged pores, fine lines, wrinkles and loss of firmness.

    Apply liberally morning and evening on cleansed skin. Follow with a moisturiser.
     
    Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, Isopropyl Palmitate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Butylene Glycol, Phosphatidylcholine, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Dimethyl MEA, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-3, Tyrosine, Glycolic Acid, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Magnesium Aspartate, Zinc Gluconate, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Copper Gluconate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Retinyl Palmitate, Echium Plantagineum Seed Oil, Hydrolyzed Myrtus Communis Leaf Extract, Copper Tripeptide-1, Dimethicone, Disodium EDTA, Carbomer, Ceteareth-20, Cyclopentasiloxane, Caprylyl Glycol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cyclohexasiloxane, Polysorbate 20, Zea Mays (Corn) Oil, Phenoxyethanol, Sorbic Acid

    I will be honest and say that when I first smelled this from the jar, it kind of smelled like glue to me. It still smells a bit like glue, but it doesn’t linger.

    I did a patch test on my arm and my arm felt super smooth after the product sank in. When I use it on my face, my face feels a bit tacky, but smooth.

    This serum comes in a pot and it was a lot more fluid than I expected. From the picture on the website, it looks more creamy, but it’s actually quite runny. I also don’t love the pot because I have to use my finger to pick up product. It didn’t come with a spatula because it’s too runny. It says to ‘apply liberally’ and it’s very easy to get too much product. Since it comes in a pot, I use way more than I’m meant to because I dip my finger in and get a lot more than I need. I think this would be great in a bottle with a pump and it would be a lot easier to know how much to use.

    I feel like this product isn’t targeted toward me since I’m under 30. I know it’s good to start using anti-aging products early, but this product is also quite pricey for someone in my age range. At $146 CAD for 30mL, this is a very expensive serum. Also, I started using this fairly recently (day and night) and I’m pretty sure I’ll finish the pot before the end of the year. 

    I will say that since I started using this, my face has been pretty clear lately. I only had a hormonal breakout on my chin.

    RATING: 3/5

    What I like:

    • No added fragrance
    • I’ve noticed that the redness around my nose and chin aren’t as noticeable

    What I don’t like:

    • The fluidity of the product + the jar (it could make a mess when traveling)
    • The price

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

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

    Bali Balm Lemon & Black Pepper Lip Balm
    Dr. Jackson’s Night Cream
    Goldfaden MD Bright Eyes
    MOR Emporium Lychee Flower Trio of Treasures
    Perricone MD No Lip Gloss Lip Gloss

    Love,

    *I was sent this product by the team at Calissa. All opinions are my own.

    Read More
  • anhyd organics cleanse tone refresh rose water facial toner

    My Mom’s Skincare Routine

    August 9, 2019

    Hi Everyone!

    Today, I’m sharing the skincare products in my mom’s routine!

    Check out my mom’s makeup routine!

    CLEANSER

    Andalou Naturals 1000 Roses Cleansing Foam

    My mom didn’t like the cleanser I was using, so she bought one from Winners by Andalou Naturals. I’ve never heard of the brand before, but they have pretty colourful bottles.

    TONER

    Andalou Naturals Coconut Water Firming Toner

    Neutrogena Alcohol-Free Toner

    ANHYD Organics Rose Water Facial Toner (read my review)

    My mom ran out of the toner I gave her (Laneige Essential Power Skin Toner for Normal to Dry Skin), so she bought the Andalou Natural Coconut Water Firming Toner from Winners. Then the Neutrogena Toner was on sale and she bought that one. Then, I was sent the ANHYD Organics one…so now she has three! I guess it will be a long time before I buy the Fresh Rose Floral Toner that she wanted to try!

    She enjoys all three of these toners and rotates between the three. She likes rose-scented and coconut-scented products. 

    SERUM

    Ole Henriksen Vitamin C Truth Serum

    This smells like an orange creamsicle and my mom says it dries down after a bit without being tacky. Unfortunately, she hasn’t noticed any difference in her skin and wouldn’t repurchase.

    CREAMS/EMULSIONS

    Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Day Cream

    Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Day Emulsion

    Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Night Cream

    She loves the Benefiance WrinkleResist24 line of products. They have a fresh floral scent. I bought the day cream for her to use in the morning, but she didn’t like the pot. For day time, she prefers a bottle with a pump, so I ordered the Day Emulsion for her.

    EYE CREAM

    Shiseido Benefiance WrinkleResist24 Eye Cream

    I was at Sephora and asked the lady what the best eye cream was for my mom and she gave me a sample of this one. My mom has been using it ever since.

    What’s in your skincare routine?

    Love,

    Read More
  • the body shop tea tree anti-imperfection daily solution

    Review | The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil Anti-Imperfection Daily Solution

    March 24, 2018

    Hi Everyone!

    I’ve previously reviewed the Tea Tree Oil Targeted Gel Blemish Stick from The Body Shop. Since the stick comes in such a small tube, I wanted to try something that I could use in my everyday skincare routine and I chose the daily solution. I decided to go with the daily solution instead of the cleansers because then the solution can soak into my skin throughout the day. It has the same smell as the blemish stick; kind of medicinal and a bit strong, but I’ve gotten used to it. I’ve been using it every night and in the mornings when I’m not leaving the house. I think the scent is quite strong and I don’t want my face smelling like medicine when I go out. After it has time to soak in, my face feels incredibly soft and not at all tacky like some facial products I use.

    It comes in a glass bottle with a dropper. I usually drop the solution onto my fingers and then pat onto my face. The consistency is like a toner.

    The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil Anti-Imperfection Daily Solution

    A lightweight, pre-serum concentrate that combats blemishes and improves the overall condition of your skin. After 4 weeks, skin looks and feels: purified, clearer, smoother, healthier, clarified, mattified and soothed, with reduced redness and imperfections.

    Can be used as a serum for oily skin types

    Gentle enough for daily use

    Pairs perfectly with our Tea Tree 3-IN-1 Wash Scrub Mask & Tea Tree Oil

    Enriched with Community Trade Organic Tea Tree Oil from Kenya

    RATING: 5/5

    The smell is a bit medicinal, but it has been working wonders for my acne-prone skin. It gets two thumbs up from me!

    UPDATE: I was using it everyday until it ran out and my face was relatively clear, although it was a bit dry because I wasn’t mixing it with anything else.

    Love,

    jen

    Read More