First Impressions with 107 Beauty

June 6, 2023
Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m reviewing three products I received from 107 Beauty. I received these products complimentary to try without any obligations to post a review. Here’s a little information about 107 Beauty that I was sent:
- 107 is a unique skincare brand that was created with innovative formulations using premium 7-year aged vinegar
- We use all-natural ingredients that are known to work effectively and synergistically with our exclusive vinegar ingredient
- Our products include essential amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help attain healthier and rejuvenated skin
Chaga Jelly Low pH Cleanser

CHAGA JELLY’s gentle jelly texture and skin-friendly 4.0-5.0 pH helps create a refreshed, clean canvas without unnecessarily irritating the skin’s outer layer or stripping natural oils that keep skin hydrated. Formulated with our special 7-year aged vinegar, chaga mushroom extract and ten different botanical extracts (including German chamomile flower, paper mulberry root, apple, Japanese camellia leaf and green tea leaf), it helps soothe skin and boost glow while it cleanses. The speckles of green tea leaf powder found in the jelly also help to provide a soft and mild exfoliation when massaged onto the skin. Wash away the bad and keep in the good with this non-stripping cleanser!

Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Ethoxydiglycol, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Xanthan Gum, Glycereth-26, Decyl Glucoside, Inonotus Obliquus (Mushroom) Extract, Coceth-7, PPG-1-PEG-9 Lauryl Glycol Ether, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Powder, Glyceryl Caprate, Polyglyceryl-2 Laurate, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Citric Acid, Malt Extract, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Broussonetia Kazinoki Root Extract, Nelumbo Nucifera Extract, Morus Alba Bark Extract, Malus Domestica Fruit Extract, Camellia Japonica Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Vaccinium Vitis-Idaea Leaf Extract, Tricholoma Matsutake Extract, Vinegar, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Fruit Extract, Linalool, Limonene, Sodium Chloride, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin.

RATING: 4/5

It was a nice cleanser, but I didn’t find anything particularly special about it. I liked that it didn’t make my face feel dry/tight after using it. This lasted for about 2-3 months of every day use (once a day).

Dewy Glow Serum Mist

DEWY GLOW’s convenient mist form makes it easy to get probiotic nourishment any time of the day. Made for ease, it’s handily sized so you can get an instantaneous dose of glow straight from your vanity or handbag. Combining over 60% probiotic ferments (aspergillus/saccharomyces and lactobacillus), safflower extract and our special 7-year aged vinegar, this balanced formulation helps hydrate, nourish and soothe skin as well as stimulate cell turnover to promote a smoother, brighter complexion. Unlike other water-based mists or sprays, it’s a true serum that helps keep skin feeling dewy and radiant. It’s perfect for glow on the go!

Aspergillus/Saccharomyces/Rice Ferment Filtrate, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Arbutin, Water, PEG/PPG-18/4 Copolymer, Pentylene Glycol, Lactobacillus/Soymilk Ferment Filtrate, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Allantoin, Adenosine, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Flower Extract, Pyrus Communis (Pear) Fruit Extract, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Prunus Persica (Peach) Fruit Extract, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Leaf/Stem Extract, Pimpinella Anisum (Anise) Fruit Extract, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Vinegar, Cucumis Melo (Melon) Fruit Extract, Phenoxyethanol (0.36%).

RATING: 4/5

I liked the fresh, fruity scent of this mist. I would prefer if this was more serum-like and not a mist. As I sprayed it, I would obviously hold my breath so I don’t inhale it, but a few times, I breathed in too quickly and I would still breathe some of the serum into my nose. Maybe that’s just a ME problem lol. If this was more viscous and came with a pump or dropper style, I would like it more. I would use 2 spurts per use every day.

Everyday Plump Hydro Cream

EVERYDAY PLUMP’s playfully light yet richly moisturizing formulation is charged with vitamins, amino acids and probiotics. The perfectly balanced formulation of our special 7-year aged vinegar, sunflower seed oil, squalane, moroheiya leaf ferment and three types of lactobacillus ferments, helps provide daily nourishment while also protecting skin from water loss and external stressors without clogging or weighing down skin. Its smooth and silky texture glides on the skin for a glowy moisture barrier that also primes the skin for sunscreen and makeup, without feeling like it’s weighing down your skin or clogging your pores. For moisturized plump on the inside, and nourished glow on the outside!

Ingredients: Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Cyclopentasiloxane, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Squalane, Bacillus/Corchorus Olitorius Leaf Ferment Filtrate, PEG/PPG-18/4 Copolymer, Isostearyl Isostearate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Cetyl Alcohol, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Cyclohexasiloxane, Polysorbate 60, Dimethiconol, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Sorbitan Stearate, Lactobacillus/Soymilk Ferment Filtrate, Lactobacillus/Punica Granatum Fruit Ferment Extract, Arginine, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng Root Ferment Filtrate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Panthenol, Trehalose, Allantoin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Polyglutamic Acid, Pyrus Communis (Pear) Fruit Extract, Beta-Glucan, Rosa Damascena Flower Water, Prunus Persica (Peach) Fruit Extract, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Leaf/Stem Extract, Pimpinella Anisum (Anise) Fruit Extract, Vanilla Planifolia Fruit Extract, Vinegar, Cucumis Melo (Melon) Fruit Extract, Phenoxyethanol (0.52%)

RATING: 5/5

The Everyday Plump Hydro Cream was my favourite of the three products I was sent. It had a pleasant, fresh scent and it lasted a while (5 months of daily use during nighttime routine). My skin felt hydrated with it and my face was relatively clear while I used it.

When I was first asked if I wanted to try these products, I wondered if they would smell like vinegar, but I was very pleasantly surprised that they did not. In fact, they had a light, fruity scent. If I were to purchase any of the products myself, I would get the Everyday Plump Hydro Cream and maybe try the Micro Drizzle Hydro Toner.

Love,

*Descriptions and ingredients in italics were taken from the 107 Beauty website.
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This or That | Cleansing Balms

November 3, 2022

Hi Everyone!

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

Previous posts on cleansing balms:

This or That | Banila Co vs Heimish

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

Glow Recipe

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

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

Ingredients for the cleansing balms:

Banila Co. Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm (Original)

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

belif Aqua Bomb Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm*

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

Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm

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

Glow Recipe Papaya Sorbet Smoothing Enzyme Cleansing Balm

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

Heimish All Clean Balm

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

The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm*

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

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

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

Youth to the People Superberry Dream Cleansing Balm*

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

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

Texture

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

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

Packaging

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

Cost

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

	Price (CAD)	Size	Cost per mL	Packaging
Banila Co. Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm (Original) - 100mL	25	100mL	0.25	plastic with spatula
Banila Co. Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm (Original) - 180mL	37	180mL	0.206	plastic with spatula
Beauty of Joseon Radiance Cleansing Balm	24	100mL	0.24	plastic with spatula
belif Aqua Bomb Cleansing Balm	48	100mL	0.48	plastic with spatula
Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm (mini)	17	30mL	0.567	plastic, no spatula
Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm	47	125mL	0.376	plastic, no spatula
Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm (value)	62	200mL	0.31	plastic, no spatula
Drunk Elephant Slaai Makeup-Melting Butter Cleanser	45	110g (110mL)	0.409	plastic with spatula
Farmacy Clearly Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm (mini)	30	50mL	0.6	plastic, mini probably doesn't come with a spatula
Farmacy Clearly Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm	46	100mL	0.46	plastic with spatula
Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm (mini)	30	50mL	0.6	plastic, mini probably doesn't come with a spatula
Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm	46	100mL	0.46	plastic with spatula
Glow Recipe Papaya Sorbet Smoothing Enzyme Cleansing Balm	42	100mL	0.42	glass jar with spatula
Heimish All Clean Balm	25	120mL	0.208	plastic with spatula
I'm From Fig Cleansing Balm	40	100mL	0.40	plastic with spatula
The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm (mini)	5.69	50mL	0.114	squeeze tube
The Inkey List Oat Cleansing Balm	13.99	150mL	0.093	squeeze tube
Juno & Co (Juno Skin) Clean 10 Cleansing Balm	21	85g (85mL)	0.247	plastic with spatula
Youth to the People Superberry Dream Cleansing Balm	45	100mL	0.45	glass jar, no spatula

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

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

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

Love,

Products marked with * were sent to me for review.

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.

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Review | Spa Sciences LELA Device

May 15, 2022
Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m reviewing the Spa Sciences LELA device. I’ve previously reviewed the AERO device (read my review).

This is a 4-in-1 ultrasonic skin spatula for deep cleansing, exfoliation, lifting & serum infusion to reveal radiant skin.
- Cleaning Mode – deeply removes and cleans dirt and oil from the skin and unclogs pores
- Ion+ Technology – removes dirt and debris from your skin at a particle level using water to help rid your pores of buildup
- Ion- Technology – apply your serums/cream or moisturizers so the products get deeper in the skin
- Lifting Mode – tighten and lift your skin + electronic muscle stimulation
The Lela comes in two colours Pink and Mint (currently unavailable). It retails for $29.99 USD. I have the mint AERO device, it might be slightly different since the AERO is shiny and the LELA has a different texture. The pink appears slightly different from my pictures.

I had only seen pictures of it straight on, so I didn’t realize the device would be so flat. I thought it would be similar to my AERO device. It’s good that it’s flat because it allows you to hold it at all angles. Especially if you’re using the lifting setting. The lid goes on tightly, I think it could use a ridge/ribbing so it’s easier to grip when you pull it off.

The ultrasonic sound from the device might affect some people. It’s different from just having the device on, but when you make contact with your skin, the ultrasonic sound is obviously much closer and you can feel the vibrations/sound in your head (if that makes sense lol). One time, I was using my noise cancelling headphones and I couldn’t hear it as much, so you can block out the sound with music.

When I used the cleaning and ion+ technology mode, I noticed that there was a fine mist of water spraying when I lifted the spatula off my face. It did remove some buildup from my face. It was cool and gross at the same time lol.

Sometimes when I apply my nightly skincare, it FEELS like I have a layer of products on my face, but since I’ve been using this, I haven’t felt that.

RATING: 4/5

Is this device absolutely necessary? No, but I think it’s a fun one to use every now and then.

Have you tried any devices from Spa Sciences?

Love,

This product was sent to me in exchange for review. No obligation to post on my blog.
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First Impressions with La Roche-Posay

April 4, 2022
Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m reviewing three products I received from La Roche-Posay. I’ve always seen this brand at the drugstore, but I never got around to trying it. Find out what I have to say about these three products!
CICAPLAST BAUME B5

Thanks to its quick-absorbing texture and invisible, non-oily and non-sticky finish, all activities can be immediately resumed after application.

Soothing Repairing Balm: Optimal skin recovery for sensitive skin after dry skin irritations and superficial cutaneous heating sensations.

Ingredients: Aqua, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Panthenol, Propanediol, Butylene Glycol, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Cetyl Peg/Ppg-10/1 Dimethicone, Trihydroxystearin, Ci 77891, Tocopherol, Madecassoside, Acetylated Glycol Stearate, Magnesium Sulfate, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Silica, Manganese Gluconate, Zinc Gluconate, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Capryloyl Glycine, Copper Gluconate, Disodium Edta, Citric Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide

I like that the product comes in a tube. Usually for products that have a thicker formula, they come in tubs/pots with a spatula. I find this balm a bit too thick for my liking, but I have noticed that my skin doesn’t look dry at all. Sometimes I’ve applied it and then looked in the mirror a few hours later and realized I missed a spot blending (because it’s so thick). When you apply it, it looks like it has a white cast, but as you work it into the skin, it goes away. I’m not a huge fan of the scent of the two cream products. I find that my face still feels tacky hours after application. It doesn’t feel greasy though. They both have this school glue smell to them and also a similar thick, sticky texture. Luckily, you can’t smell it once you apply it (or maybe it’s because I apply an oil that has a light, fruity scent). I guess it’s better than an overly scented product. I’ve been using the tube for about a month and a half now and I think I’m getting close to finishing it. I use about a pea-sized amount (sometimes a bit more) in AM and PM (rounding up, I’ve used it about 100 times).

RATING: 3/5 → 4/5

I’ll give this a medium rating since my skin has been pretty clear lately, but I probably wouldn’t purchase this on my own in the future.

UPDATE: After writing this review,my skin had a breakout and I think this balm helped it heal faster. So I’ve bumped this rating up because I like it more. I don’t think I would use it as an everyday moisturizer since it’s so thick, but I think I would use it when my skin needs it. It would probably be good for the winter time. I WOULD repurchase.

HYALU B5 ANTI-AGING SERUM

The dermatological correction for wrinkles and fine lines, loss of volume and elasticity. This intensely hydrating face and neck serum is clinically proven to replump skin, accelerate skin repair and significantly reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles. The unique pro-skin recovery formula helps repair by replenishing the skin’s moisture barrier and activate skin renewal. It combines concentrated pure hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5 and madecassoside for optimal effectiveness while also being suitable for sensitive skin.

The smooth, fresh, and rich water-gel texture leaves skin feeling plump and hydrated to the touch.

Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Alcohol Denat., Propylene Glycol, Panthenol, Pentylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Peg-6 Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Tocopherol, Madecassoside, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Ppg-6-Decyltetradeceth-30, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Xanthan Gum, Caprylyl Glycol, Disodium Edta, Butylene Glycol, Citric Acid, Glyceryl Isostearate, Parfum/Fragrance

The serum comes in a glass bottle with a dropper. For some reason, the top feels kind of cheap to me. It also might be hard for people to open since it’s all smooth. It would probably be better to have some ridges to grip it.

RATING: 2/5

I will say that I couldn’t give this a proper test because the product is so scented, that it gave me a headache. When smelling it from the bottle, it is a nice, refreshing scent, but it’s too overpowering once it’s on the face. I tried applying it on my face, away from my nose, but the texture of it was too tacky. I know it might sound like a waste, but I tried it out on my feet so I could test how it makes the skin feel. My feet do feel quite smooth so I won’t give this one a super low rating, but I wouldn’t repurchase this one.

LIPIKAR BAUME AP+M ECO TUBE

Lipikar Balm AP+M is a moisturizing body balm clinically proven to immediately soothe dry to eczema-prone skin for less itching. The new AP+M triple-action formula has a reinforced anti-scratching, anti-relapse efficacy and helps rebalance the skin microbiome. This balm replenishes skin’s essential lipids to strengthen its moisture barrier and provides long-lasting 48-hour hydration. It can be used on the face, hands and body and is suitable for adults, children and babies as young as 2 weeks.

Our NEW ECO-CONSCIOUS TUBE uses 45% less plastic than the previous AP+ 200ml plastic tube.

Non-greasy, non-sticky finish. Skin is soft and comforted from sensitivities.

Ingredients: Aqua, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Glycerin, Dimethicone, Niacinamide, Cetearyl Alcohol, Brassica Camperistris Seed Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Peg-100 Stearate, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Peg-100 Stearate, Propanediol, Coco-Betaine, Tocopherol, Sodium Chloride, Peg-20 Methyl Glycose Sesquistearate, Ophiopogon Japonicus Root Extract, Maltodextrin, Dimethiconol, Mannose, Xanthan Gum, Pentarythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Capryloyl Glycine, Caprylyl Glycol, Sorbitan Tristearate, Disodium Edta, Vitreoscilla Ferment, Citric Acid

I love that they’re being eco-conscious by using less plastic, but I used this tube up so quickly since I used it on my whole body after showering. I finished the 200mL tube in a month (used one daily). Once it started getting low, it was hard to squeeze out. I cut the tube open and I was able to use it for a few more days. Similar to the balm, this also smelled like school glue and I could smell it more. It also had a thick texture that kept my skin moisturized.

RATING: 3/5

At $26 for the tube, I can’t justify purchasing it again when other products are the about the same in terms of moisturizing. During the winter, Aveeno daily moisturizing lotion and Cerave moisturizing cream have both worked well for me.

Have you tried La Roche-Posay products? What are your faves?

Love,

*Products were sent to me with no obligations to post. Slideshow pictures taken from Google search. Descriptions and ingredients lists taken from La Roche-Posay Canada website.
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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.

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First Impressions with L’Oréal Revitalift Triple Power LZR 7-day Treatment Replumping Ampoules

September 29, 2021
Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m reviewing the L’Oréal Revitalift Triple Power LZR 7-day Treatment Replumping Ampoules.

With 1.9% Pure Hyaluronic Acid, our highest concentration of hyaluronic acid in a treatment. Visibly replumps skin after 1 use, and reduces the look of wrinkles in 7 days. Suitable for sensitive skin.
- Our 1st anti-aging cream enriched with the legendary Centella Asiatica to hydrate and resist signs of aging. Recognized by the Canadian Dermatologie Association
- Our lightweight, protective formula, with CENTELLA ASIATICA and PRO-RETINOL, strengthens and replenishes skin’s moisture barrier to hydrate, fight the look of wrinkles and resist the signs of aging
- Formulated with: CENTELLA ASIATICA & PRO-RETINOL. Paraben-Free, Fragrance-Free, Colorant, dye-free, Non comedogenic (won’t clog pores)
Ingredients: Aqua / Water, Glycerin, Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Peg-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Secale Cereale Seed Extract / Rye Seed Extract, Calcium Pantothenate, Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate, Ascorbyl Glucoside, Disodium Edta, Pentylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin. (F.I.L. B212104/1)

This product retails for $32.96 on Walmart Canada.

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RATING: 3/5

I was able to get 3 uses out of each ampoule (2 mornings and 1 night). Depending on how much you use, you could probably stretch it out to 2 days and 2 nights. I really liked it. My face looked nice and hydrated. It didn’t pill on me which was nice. I would definitely consider repurchasing these if it came in a bottle, but they’re quite expensive if you buy it in ampoule form (it’s almost $5 for each ampoule). Also, I don’t love how you use the tip as a plug because it was previously exposed to dust before flipping around.

Even though I enjoyed trying these ampoules, I wouldn’t repurchase because of the price. Lately, I’ve received a few L’Oréal skincare products. With so many skincare brands out there, L’Oréal isn’t really one of the top brands that I would consider. To my surprise, I have liked a few of the products I’ve tried so far (from the Revitalift collection). I’m not a huge fan of strongly scented products and some of the products I tried are a bit too much for me. I did enjoy these ampoules and the Revitalift Anti-Wrinkle + Firming Day Moisturizer Fragrance-Free. The Revitalift Hydrating Smoothing Serum and the Revitalift Anti-Wrinkle + Firming Night Moisturizer were way too fragranced for my liking.

Love,
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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)

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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,
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First Impressions with TrueBloom HydroBloom Skin Rejuvenation Kit

July 12, 2021
Hi Everyone!
Today, I’ll be sharing my first impressions review of a gadget from a brand called TrueBloom.

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

Easy 5 Minute Weekly Treatment

Sucks Dirt & Makeup From your Face

Unclog Pores, Remove Blackheads & Whiteheads

Stimulates Anti-Ageing Via Collagen Production

Improve Skin Tone & Texture

Reduces Wrinkles & Fine Lines

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

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

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

RATING: 2/5

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

Have you tried one of these gadgets?

Love,

*This product was sent to me complimentary for a review. All opinions are my own.
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Review | Bubble Fresh Start Gel Cleanser

July 2, 2021
Hi Everyone!

Today I’m reviewing Bubble’s Fresh Start Gel Cleanser.

“Bubble is the first skincare brand made for Gen-Z.” Even though it has Gen-Z in mind, people of all ages can use it.
- Science-driven products that are sustainable, vegan and cruelty-free
- What you won’t find: harsh chemicals, additives, fillers or fragrances
- Partnered with Better Help to offer 50% off of online therapy with each initial purchase
- Donate 1% of their profits to organizations that support teens facing mental health difficulties
Our everyday cleanser purifies skin without drying it out. This gel-based formula cleanses away pore-clogging impurities while simultaneously soothing skin—and without any harsh ingredients that can strip it of essential moisture. The end result: A complexion that feels fresh, clean, and balanced.

Price: $16 USD for 4.2 FL OZ 125 mL
- For all skin types
- Free of denatured alcohols, parabens, artificial color & added fragrance materials
- Made in the USA
Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Acrylates/Steareth-20 Methacrylate Copolymer, Disodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Glycerin, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Water, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Hydrolyzed Rhodophyceae Extract, Caffeine, Butylene Glycol, Gluconolactone, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol

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The packaging is cute. I like the baby blue and the fact that it comes in a pump. There are two things I don’t love about the packaging:
1. When you push the pump, it dispenses onto the side of bottle if you keep it upright. So I need to tilt the bottle (90°) to make sure it dispenses onto my hand.
2. I don’t know if I’m just not strong enough, but it’d be nice if the bottle could open so that when I’m closer to finishing it, I can see how much is left.
RATING: 3.5/5

I like that it’s a gel cleanser. There’s no added fragrance, the natural scent isn’t my favourite, but since it’s a cleanser, it’s not a big deal. I have dry skin and I tried using it out every day for a week. It didn’t make my skin feel dry. Since it has PHA (polyhydroxy acid) which is an exfoliant, I like to use it a few times a week as my night cleanser. I use about 2-3 pumps each time, So I will keep track of how often I use it to see how long it takes to finish up.

Back in high school, I had no idea what BHAs or AHAs were. I don’t even remember what I used as a cleanser, I might’ve just used bar soap and water. Just thinking about it makes me cringe. I barely had a skincare routine. I would use the same moisturizer as my mom (she has oily skin and I have dry). I wish I had been more interested in skincare when I was a teen. I only knew about drugstore brands like Clean & Clear and Neutrogena. Even then, I barely used anything.

Have you heard of Bubble?

Love,

*This product was sent to me to try out.
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Review | Volition Beauty Helix AM/PM Eye Gel

August 27, 2020
Hi Everyone!

Today, I’ll be reviewing the Volition Beauty Helix AM/PM Eye Gel.

This is the 3rd Volition Beauty product I’ve tried. I’ve previously reviewed 2 products that I received from Volition.

Celery Green Cream | Strawberry-C Brightening Serum

I wanted to try more from the brand so I purchased the Helix AM/PM Eye Gel and Snow Mushroom Water Serum during the Sephora VIB sale.

Benefits
- Hydrates and rejuvenates skin
- Cools and reduces visible puffiness
- Improves appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Priming effect for ideal makeup application
Ingredients: Propylene Glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Water, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Snail Secretion Filtrate, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Isohexadecane, Polysorbate 80, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin.

Cruelty free and gluten free.

I have dry under eyes, so it’s hard to tell if this helps prime the skin. When I apply concealer, my under eyes look dry still.

On a good skin day, my under eyes does feel smooth after I use this eye gel. I don’t have fine lines or wrinkles so I can’t say if it helps with those. It has a silicone-y texture that’s similar to the original Smashbox primer.

I find that eye creams in pots are easy for me to overuse. I used way too much when I first started using it. I purchased it earlier this year and I’m almost finished. I was using it twice daily (day and night) until I got the Retinol Eye Cream from Pixi Beauty.

RATING: 3.5/5

I’ve tried a handful of different eye creams and some have caused reactions under my eyes (milia and even red spots). This is one of the few eye products that hasn’t caused any reactions to my under eye area.

While it is a nice eye gel, it’s not my favourite Volition Beauty product. As someone with dry skin, I think I can only use it during the warmer months. Even now, my under eyes are dry. I need something that moisturizes and hydrates in the colder months.

UPDATE: They sell this in a bottle with a pump now which I prefer. I may consider trying this during the summer and using it in the morning only.

Have you tried Volition Beauty products? What are your favourites?

Love,
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Review | Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel

August 7, 2020

Hi Everyone!

Today I’m reviewing the Dermalogica Special Cleansing Gel that I purchased during a Sephora sale. After a year, I finally finished the 500mL Kiehls cleanser. So, now I’m back to using this one. I did try it out for a week or so just to see what it was like and I got a breakout (which was unrelated to the cleanser).

Soap-free, foaming gel cleanses all skin conditions. Refreshing lather thoroughly removes impurities, without disturbing the skin’s natural moisture balance. This iconic cleanser, which contains naturally-foaming Quillaja Saponaria, gently rinses away toxins and debris to leave skin feeling smooth and clean. Lightweight and mild enough to use every day, it also features calming Balm Mint and Lavender extracts to soothe the skin.

Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Quillaja Saponaria Bark Extract Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Cymbopogon Winterianus Herb Oil, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Coco-Betaine, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate, Capryloyl Glycine, Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Methylpropanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, PPG-5-Ceteth-20, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium EDTA

It is gluten free, cruelty free, vegan and has no artificial colours or fragrances. I can smell a hint of the mint and sometimes lemon.

I purchased the 16.9 oz/500 mL bottle which is normally $87 CAD, but with the Sephora sale, it was $74. I wish the pump could dispense the perfect amount of cleanser like the Kiehls one. The Dermalogica cleanser pumps out a lot and I only need half a pump.

RATING: 3/5

The cleanser is okay. It’s gentle and my skin doesn’t feel stripped of its oils after using it. I haven’t had any breakouts from using it, but I don’t find it particularly special. Also, I don’t think it’s worth the high price tag. I would rather repurchase the Kiehls Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash (even though it isn’t meant for my skin type).

Have you tried Dermalogica products?

Love,

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July 2020 Product Empties

July 31, 2020

Hi Everyone!

I don’t have too many empties this month. I think most of my products are fairly new so my product empties posts will only have a few items every month.

Smashbox Photo Finish Primerizer – I started using this as a moisturizer since I have quite a few primers and I know it keeps me moisturized. My skin was having a reaction and this was the only product I had that wasn’t new.

Repurchase? Absolutely! (Note: the travel size is more cost effective than the glass bottle)

Kiehls Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash – This cleanser is meant for normal to oily skin. I have dry skin so it’s not really geared towards my skin type. I really wanted to try it though. It didn’t make my skin feel overly dry either. I purchased the 500mL bottle which was expensive for a cleanser, but it lasted a year. I used one pump every day during my nighttime skincare routine and it lasted more than a year.

Repurchase? No, but I would try something for dry skin from Kiehls.

Nanacoco Cleansing Oil* – This was a good cleansing oil. It had a floral fragrance to it which I didn’t mind. However, I would prefer a cleansing oil without a fragrance since I have sensitive skin.

Repurchase? No.

Clinique Acne Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel – This acne gel works great as a spot treatment. It will help dry up a pimple that has a whitehead. It won’t be immediate, but if you use it for a couple days, you should see your blemish go down. This little bottle lasted a long time since I only used it as a spot treatment.

Repurchase? Probably not.

What did you finish this month?

Love,

Products marked with (*) were sent to me for review.

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June 2020 Product Empties

June 30, 2020

Hi Everyone!

I have two makeup empties for this month. I don’t think I’ll be finishing any other makeup any time soon.

Lancôme L’Absolu Lacquer Lip Gloss in 236 Pour Toujours (read my review) – I used this up the best I could and then cleaned the tube. I absolutely loved this gloss and would definitely buy it in this shade and others. It’s actually more of a tint/stain than a gloss. It’s not matte, but it’s not super glossy either.

Repurchase? YES!

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Powder – This powder panned sooo quickly! Also, there are only 3 shades which is unacceptable. All brands need work to be more inclusive in their shade range, but especially luxury brands. Like anything, the powder can look cakey if you apply too much. If you do a light dusting with a fluffy brush, it looked very nice. I just didn’t find it that amazing especially with the price tag and how fast it panned. I prefer my Maybelline Fit Me Loose Finishing Powder which I’ve had for twice as long and still haven’t finished.

Repurchase? No.

What did you finish this month?

Love,

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May/June 2020 Faves

June 26, 2020

Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m sharing my favourites from the past couple months.

Live Clean Cool & Fresh Natural Deodorant – I’ve been using this every day and doing Chloe Ting workouts. I’ve been sweating quite a bit and I can still smell the deodorant. I don’t smell sweat (from my armpits). I love the smell of it, it’s very refreshing.

Jouer Essential Hydrating Lip Oil – This makes your lips glossy without being too sticky. It doesn’t have a scent or taste. It keeps your lips moisturized for a few hours. I wouldn’t put this in my purse though just in case I don’t close it properly. I was taking a picture and put the tube on its side and it started pouring out slowly.

Moom Organic Organic & 100% Natural Hair Remover with Lavender* – I was sent this by the brand and I didn’t know how well it would work. Once I tried it though, it lived up to the claims. It said the hair grows back after two weeks which is accurate. I tried it on my arms and the hair started growing back after 2 weeks. It’s almost been a month now and the hair is sparser. I like that it comes with reusable/washable cotton cloths.

The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Rose Hip Seed Oil – My dry skin needs a face oil (especially in the winter). I really like this oil. It doesn’t really have a scent and it’s not too greasy.

Love,

Products marked with (*) were gifted to me.

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Previous posts on cleansing balms:

Texture

Packaging

Cost

HITS

LIKES

CICAPLAST BAUME B5

HYALU B5 ANTI-AGING SERUM

LIPIKAR BAUME AP+M ECO TUBE