The Body Shop Archives

Foundations | My Hits & Misses

March 17, 2020
Hi Everyone!
I’m sharing my hits and misses for all foundations that I’ve tried (that I can remember).

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 | 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.

Just a heads up that there are quite a few cult fave foundations that I don’t love as much as everyone else. There are more foundations that I’ve tried samples of, but 1) this post would be way too long and 2) I don’t have a full opinion on them since I only used them a handful of times. This post will only include liquids/creams/cushions/sticks. I will include powder foundations in my Powder Hits & Misses post since I haven’t tried as many. It will also only include foundations that are still available. I’m going to keep my little reviews as short as I can especially if I have a full review of the foundation. I will link them so you can read them if you’d like.

In no particular order, here are my Hits, Likes and Misses:

Hits

Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick (read my review) – This might be my favourite stick foundation I’ve tried to date. I even had the wrong shade. It was perfect for a girls trip. I packed this to use as foundation/concealer. This is one of my favourite Bobbi Brown items (Bobbi Brown Hits & Misses). I bought it at the MAC Warehouse Sale and would definitely pay full price for it.

Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra Longwear Foundation Stick SPF21 – This would be my 2^nd favourite stick foundation.

Lancôme Skin Feels Good Skin Nourishing Foundation (read my review) – Love this. Even though it’s labelled as a foundation, it’s more like a tinted moisturizer. If only they had more shades available (I’m in between shades).

Lancôme Miracle Cushion Foundation – I need to find the right shade because the one I was using is too pink for me.

Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer – I feel like this has a little more coverage than what I’d consider a tinted moisturizer. It’s a great product though.
Likes

Shiseido Synchro Skin Glow Luminizing Foundation – Beautiful foundation and one of the closest matches I’ve ever had. It does have fragrance in it and oddly enough, it doesn’t smell that great. I would rather try the self-refreshing one that doesn’t have any fragrance in it.

Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation (read my review) – While this was a beautiful foundation, it just didn’t last long on me. I don’t know if the primers I tried were just too slippy or something. It looked beautiful on the skin, but I just couldn’t find the right shade match. It was either too pink or too orange.

Laneige BB Cushion Hydra Radiance SPF50* (read my review) – Nice cushion foundation, but I’m between shades.

Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation – Can’t find a good shade match, but this is a nice foundation.

Maybelline Fit Me Hydrate + Smooth Foundation (read my review) – I wish this had a pump. I’m also not crazy about the scent of this. Not my fave foundation.

Hourglass Vanish Seamless Finish Foundation Stick (read my review) – I liked it, but didn’t love this enough. It was just too full coverage for me (even when I used a very thin layer).

Hera Black Cushion Foundation – My sister got this for me in Korea. I just picked a shade that I thought would be okay based on pictures. Even though I’m quite light, the shade is too light for me. Plus, this is very fragranced (like a lot of K-Beauty products). The foundation itself is nice, but the fragrance is just too much for me. Plus, it’s hard for me to get in Canada. If it is available, it’s more than I’m willing to spend. So, I’d rather spend the money on something else.

The Ordinary Serum Foundation (read my review) – not my fave, but not my least fave.

The Body Shop All-in-One BB Cream (read my review) – At the time I wrote the review for this, I really enjoyed it. Since then, I’ve tried other products I prefer more.

Perricone MD No Foundation Serum Broad Spectrum SPF30 (read my review) – Nice foundation that looks natural and provides sheer coverage.
Misses

For the foundation misses, there are ones that either just didn’t impress me much, didn’t provide enough coverage or had too much coverage.

Almay Clear Complexion Make Myself Clear Makeup* – I don’t really want makeup that has salicylic acid.

NYX Bare With Me Tinted Skin Veil* (read my review) – not my shade and coverage was too light for me.

Bali Body BB Cream (read my review) – This provided no coverage whatsoever.

NYX HD Studio Photogenic Foundation – Broke me out and smelled like plastic.

Milani Conceal + Perfect 2-in-1 Foundation and Concealer – Was way too thick for me and shade range wasn’t great.

Garnier BB Cream – Shade range is terrible and it made my eyes water. Too much alcohol in it??

Nars Velvet Matte Foundation Stick – I bought this at the Shiseido Warehouse Sale and it just didn’t wow me. It sounds kind of mean, but there’s a reason that this is rarely on lists of Fave Stick Foundations.

Burt’s Bees Goodness Glows Liquid Foundation – Washed off easily with water and looked patchy on dry spots. What would happen if I wore this when it’s raining or went on a Maid of the Mist boat tour??

Nude by Nature Luminous Sheer Liquid Foundation* (read my review) – Not enough coverage.

Nude by Nature BB Cream* (read my review) – Not enough coverage.

Wet N Wild Photofocus Foundation – Shade was wrong, too matte for me. I know they came out with a dewy version, but I also didn’t like the smell or the fact that it used a spatula instead of a pump.
The following foundations are ones I can’t give a definitive opinion on:

Becca Ever-Matte Shine Proof Foundation – I think I had the wrong shade and also knew nothing about applying it. I ended up throwing this out despite not using it very often.

Holika Holika Gudetama Photo Ready Cushion Foundation – wrong shade. Wasn’t my fave cushion though.

Maybelline Superstay Better Skin Foundation – This was one of the first liquid foundations from the drugstore that I bought. It smells like chemicals, but I remember it being nice (I had the wrong shade though).

Nars Sheer Glow Foundation – I can’t say if I like or hate this because I bought the wrong shade. I bought this before I knew what I wanted in a foundation. I never fully tested it out. I would prefer a foundation that has a pump (instead of buying one separately and NARS has nice foundations that come with a pump).

To Try
- Bite Changemaker Micellar Foundation
- L’Oréal Infallible 24Hr Freshwear Foundation
- Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer
- Make Up For Ever Matte Velvet Skin Full Coverage Foundation
- Shiseido Synchro Skin Self-Refreshing Foundation
What are your fave foundations?
Love,
Products marked with (*) were sent to me for review.
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Primers | My Hits & Misses

March 6, 2020
Hi Everyone!
I’m sharing my hits and misses for all primers that I’ve tried (that I can remember).

Check out my other Hits & Misses posts!

MAKEUP || Foundations | Powders | Concealers | 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.

Each primer has a small blurb on why I love, like or didn’t like. Some I’ve grouped together because they were similar to me. First, I’ll start with Hits, then Likes and end with Misses.

HITS

Smashbox Photo Finish Primerizer – This one is great for my dry skin. Before I started using facial oils and drinking more water, my nose was super dry and flaky (ew). It’s still a bit dry and can get flaky at times, but around the nostrils aren’t as bad as they used to be. This primer was the first that would keep my nose moisturized enough by the end of the day. You can also use this as a moisturizer if you’re in a pinch and need some moisture.

Good Molecules Silicone-Free Priming Moisturizer* & Sonia Roselli Water Balm (read my review) – These are also 2-in-1 primers that can double as moisturizers. I wouldn’t say that these should be used as your only part of your skincare routine, but they can definitely be one of the steps in your morning routine to help prep your skin. The Sonia Roselli Water Balm is more moisturizing than the Good Molecules. I wouldn’t use the Good Molecules as a moisturizer on its own though. I usually pair it with a face oil.

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Water – This is a nice hydrating primer that has a bit of tackiness. You can also use at the end of your makeup routine, but take note that the spray nozzle isn’t the finest so don’t get too close to your face. It has a slightly citrus scent from the Limonene, so if you don’t like citrus, you’ll want to skip this one!

Make Up For Ever Step 1 Equalizer Primer (Smoothing) – This is a nice smoothing/blurring primer that smells really nice. I use it on my cheeks and forehead where my pores are larger.

Tarte Timeless Smoothing Primer (read my review) – This is one of Tati’s fave blurring primers. So I thought I’d give it a try. This is a thicker primer and it’s easy to use too much – Less is more! Sometimes I would get too much on my fingers and then just apply it to areas I didn’t really need it. I would notice my makeup would look more cakey in those areas. That was totally my fault though. This is a great primer if you need to blur those pores. If you do end up trying it, press it into the skin, do not rub.

Winky Lux Whipped Primer – Tati also tried this one to compare. I can’t recall exactly what she said, but I think she liked it. Although not as much as the Tarte one. This one is a softer texture since it’s whipped – It’s like this one is whipped cream cheese while the Tarte is regular Philly cream cheese. It might be easier for a beginner to try this one first and then upgrade to Tarte Timeless Smoothing Primer when you’re ready.

Mac Strobe Cream (Pink) – I guess this is more of a liquid highlighter than a primer. If you have larger pores, you might want to use a blurring primer before applying this to the face. You can use this underneath foundation, mix it in with foundation or apply as a liquid highlighter. This pink is so pretty to give you that ‘glow from within’ look. The Giorgio Armani Fluid Sheer in #7 is also really pretty and I haven’t personally tried it, but the Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter is so pretty too.
LIKES

Smashbox Photo Finish Pore Minimizing Primer – I don’t really like the silicone-y feeling blurring primers, but if you don’t mind them, you’d like this one.

Touch In Sol No Poreblem Primer – This one broke me out, but it blurs really nicely. If it works for you, this is one of the cheaper primers available at Sephora and in this blog post.

Make Up For Ever Step 1 Equalizer Primers (Nourishing & Hydrating – These two primers were both really nice, but again didn’t provide my dry skin enough moisture. The Nourishing one is a bit richer in texture while the hydrating one is more of a gel cream texture.

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil – I really loved this primer when I first tried a sample, but once I bought the full size bottle, I didn’t reach for it as often. You could use any facial oil you already have instead of spending money on a primer oil. Also, this isn’t the best smelling facial oil I’ve used either. I ended up having to use it as a facial oil and then ended up decluttering because I had it so long that it started to smell off.

First Aid Hello Fab Coconut Skin Smoothie Priming Moisturizer, Stellar Brilliant Primer & Mac Prep + Prime Natural Radiance – From what I remember, these three primers were illuminating and they had similar textures. They weren’t shimmery or anything, but there was a glow to them. While they were nice, they didn’t provide quite enough hydration for my dry skin. Also, I didn’t like the smells of these primers. I’d rather use a really good hydrating primer and choose to add in some liquid highlighter on my own instead of getting an illuminating primer like these ones.
MISSES

Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer – I know some people love this one, but this smells like school glue to me and that just turned me off. I also didn’t notice anything special about it.

Maybelline Baby Skin Instant Pore Eraser Primer – Similar to the Smashbox pore minimizing primer, this is silicone-y. It’s a good drugstore alternative to the Smashbox one, I believe. I didn’t compare them so I don’t know if Smashbox was better at blurring, but they both have the same texture.

Make Up for Ever Step 1 Equalizer Primer – Redness Correcting & Smashbox Photo Finish Colour Correcting Primer – Redness Correcting (read my review) – I didn’t really find these two primers to work that well at concealing redness. If you need to colour correct, use a colour corrector instead of a primer that corrects.

L’Oréal Magic Skin Beautifier BB Cream (Anti-Redness) (read my review) – This smells really bad, but it does work great if you have a slightly darker skin tone than I do. It works well for my mom. It starts out green, but then it turns ‘skin-coloured.’

Maybelline Facestudio Master Primer Blur + Redness Control Primer – This did nothing to conceal redness OR blur.

Nude By Nature Perfecting Primer (read my review) – Even though I rated this a 3/5 in my review, the smell is too sweet. It smells like Rockets (or as the Americans call them ‘Smarties’).

The Body Shop Moisturizing Primer – I don’t think this is available anymore, but it was basically a moisturizer. It had a similar texture to the First Aid priming moisturizer.

The Body Shop All-In-1 Blurring Primer – Again, this is silicone-y and one of the first primers I tried.

Smashbox Photo Finish Under Eye Primer – Originally, I loved this primer because I thought it made my under eyes look illuminated and bright. After a while, I didn’t notice anything. I don’t know if I was just imagining things in the beginning. This was meant to illuminate the under eyes. You don’t need this (even if it did work)…just get a good eye cream that already illuminates. This one has a similar texture to the First Aid/Stellar/MAC illuminating primers.

If you’ve read this far, thanks for reading!

You can check out my July 2018 Primer Inventory to see how much my opinion has changed since then.

I’ve also tried the Benefit The POREfessional Face Primer and Tatcha The Silk Canvas Protective Primer in samples. I think the POREfessional was dried out by the time I tried it, but I know a lot of people love it. I think it’s similar to the Make Up For Ever Smoothing Primer, so I might give the hydrating version a try. I really liked the Silk Canvas primer and would definitely consider purchasing the mini. I know the full size is more cost effective, but I don’t know if I could get through the full size one fast enough. I’d rather spend a few dollars more per ounce than buy the full size one and end up throwing it out because it expired.

To Try
- Becca First Light Priming Filter Face Primer
- Becca Velvet Blurring Primer
- Benefit The POREfessional: Hydrate Primer
- Bite Changemaker Skin-Optimizing Primer (normal to dry skin)
- Charlotte Tilbury Hollywood Flawless Filter (This was on my 2020 Beauty Wishlist)
- Cover FX Gripping Primer
- Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Primer – Blurring
- Laura Mercier Pure Canvas Primer – Hydrating
- Tatcha The Silk Canvas Protective Primer
In my next Hits & Misses post, I’ll be writing about foundations!

What are your favourite primers?
Love,
Products marked with (*) were gifted to me.
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My Signature Perfumes Throughout the Years

January 21, 2020
Hi Everyone!
I think I started wearing perfume in high school. I never really wore perfume on an everyday basis until university. Whenever I leave the house, I spray on perfume unless I’m going to be somewhere like the movie theatre where I’m in close proximity to other people for long periods of time. I usually only do one spray and it’s enough for me.

This is a longer post with three parts so you can scroll down to the parts you want to read:
- List of Fragrances and their fragrance families
- My opinions on the perfumes
- Descriptions of the main accords and notes of each perfume
These are all of the perfumes I’ve had over the years (in order):
- The Body Shop White Musk
  - Floral, Sensual
- Banana Republic Classic Eau de Toilette (unisex)
  - Citrus, Floral
- Victoria’s Secret Forever PINK Sparkling Apple and Water Lily Body Mist
  - Fruity
- Ralph Lauren RALPH Eau de Toilette
  - Floral, Fruity
- Lady Gaga Fame Rollerball
  - Floral, Sensual
- Giorgio Armani Acqua di Gioia Eau de Parfum
  - Fresh, Floral, Aquatic
- Tory Burch Original Eau de Parfum
  - Fresh, Floral, Citrus
- Dolce & Gabbana 3 L’Imperatrice
  - Fruity, Aquatic
Please excuse this super grainy photo. It was taken with an old camera phone.
For the Banana Republic Classic Eau de Toilette, I really liked the scent of this in-store, but then it smelled different when I brought it home and I ended up decluttering it after using it a couple of times.

RALPH by Ralph Lauren was a really nice scent, but I got tired of it after a while and that’s why I picked up the VS Body Mist. The body mist was a favourite of mine even though it was a cheap body mist that I bought 2 for $25. I had this other body mist that was okay, but I don’t consider it a favourite of my collection.

The Lady Gaga Fame Rollerball was gifted to me for my birthday. I thought it was really cool that the liquid was black (which wasn’t black once you sprayed/rolled it on). I liked the spiciness of it and only wore it when I went clubbing.

The Giorgio Armani Acqua di Gioia is still a favourite of mine, but I had it for 4 years and it was time for a change. It has an aquatic scent, so I only wore it in the spring and summer. It felt weird to use in the winter time which is why I bought the Tory Burch one.

Tory Burch is sophisticated, but still youthful. It’s not like Chanel No. 5 where it smells like a rich, older lady (no offense if you’re younger and you like it). I bought the Tory Burch perfume at the Mac Warehouse Sale in a set that came with a mini and a body lotion which I gave to my grandma. Before the sale, I researched which perfume brands were owned by Estee Lauder. I went to Hudson’s Bay to smell the different perfumes from Tory Burch, Estee Lauder, DKNY, Clinique, etc. and chose the original Tory Burch scent. Luckily for me, they had it at the sale and I bought it.

While I was looking for perfumes (before buying Acqua di Gioia), I got different samples at Sephora. I liked the Dolce & Gabbana 3 L’Imperatrice one, but it was an Eau de Toilette and I didn’t want to spend over $100 on it. Last year, when I was at the Shiseido Warehouse Sale, I saw a smaller bottle on sale and I decided to get it.

Surprisingly, I’ve never finished a bottle of perfume. From university to present day, I’ve always had more than 1 perfume. I’ve had a few perfumes for more than a few years and I stop using them once they smell different. I still have Fame and Acqua di Gioia, but I only use them for display now.

On me, all of the perfumes are long-wearing. Sometimes I even smell the perfumes AFTER I’ve showered.
I found descriptions of most of the perfumes’ notes on fragrantica. I am not associated with fragrantica in any way, it was just a website that had all of the perfumes and I wanted to keep the structure of the descriptions the same. People vote on what they smell in the Perfume Pyramid (top notes, middle notes and base notes). I am terrible at identifying scents unless it’s something really obvious like rose. So all of the descriptions are from the website.

The Body Shop White Musk Eau de Toilette

Main Accords: musky, white floral, woody, powdery, floral

Top Notes: ylang ylang, galbanum, basil, jasmine, musk

Middle Notes: lily, jasmine, musk and rose

Base Notes: jasmine, rose, iris, amber, patchouli, vetiver, peach, oakmoss and vanilla

Victoria’s Secret Forever PINK Sparkling Apple and Water Lily

There’s no description of this one on fragrantica because it’s really old, but there was obviously sparkling apple and water lily in it.

Banana Republic Classic Eau de Toilette

Main Accords: Citrus, white floral, fresh spicy, green, woody

Top Notes: bergamot, grapefruit, clementine, green notes

Middle Notes: honeysuckle, syringa

Base Notes: ginger, woodsy notes, musk

RALPH Ralph Lauren

Main Accords: floral, fruity, green, fresh, citrus

Top Notes: Japanese Osmanthus, Apple leaf, Italian Mandarin

Middle Notes: Magnolia, Boronia, Yellow Freesia

Base Notes: musk, white iris

Lady Gaga Fame

Main Accords: floral, honey, sweet, balsamic, fruity

Fragrance Notes: belladonna, orchid, jasmine sambac, honey, apricot, saffron, incense

Giorgio Armani Acqua Di Gioia Eau de Parfum

I bought my bottle a long time ago. The new one looks different and I don’t know if the scent has changed at all. I would describe the one I have as aquatic and fresh.

Main Accords: green, citrus, aromatic, fresh, white floral, fresh spicy

Top Notes: Amalfi lemon, mint

Middle Notes: jasmine, pink pepper, peony

Base Notes: French labdanum, Virginia cedar, brown sugar

Tory Burch Tory Burch Eau de Parfum

Main Accords: citrus, floral, fresh, white floral, woody, musky

Top Notes: grapefruit, pink pepper, cassis, Mandarin orange, neroli

Middle Notes: peony, tuberose, mimosa, jasmine, carrot seeds, alyssum

Base Notes: vetiver, sandalwood, white musk, cedar
Dolce and Gabbana 3 L’Imperatrice Eau de Toilette

Main Accords : ozonic, aquatic, fruity, sweet, sour

Top Notes: pink pepper, kiwi, rhubarb

Middle Notes: jasmine, cyclamen, watermelon

Base Notes: musk, sandalwood, lemon tree

If you’re still here, thanks for reading!!

Based on a roundup of all of the signature scents, I seem to gravitate toward fragrances with citrus, musk, pink pepper, jasmine, sandalwood and vetiver.

What are your favourite perfumes?
Love,
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May 2019 Product Empties

May 31, 2019

Hi Everyone!
I finished a few masks and scrubs this month! Keep reading to find out what I would repurchase.
Oceà Natural Skincare Ocean Mineral Complex Masque (read my review) – I don’t really know if this did anything for me. While it felt nice and cooling, I don’t know if it brought out any impurities or did anything special.
Repurchase? Probably not.
L’Oréal Pure Sugar Scrub (Kiwi) – As much as I enjoyed this sugar scrub, I could make this myself and there wouldn’t be kiwi seeds going down the drain.

Repurchase? Probably not.

Joanna Vargas Exfoliating Mask (read my review) – This was way too rough on my sensitive skin. Even using it on the body felt quite rough.

Repurchase? No.

Tula Kefir Cleansing Oil – I really enjoyed this cleansing oil. It didn’t break me out and it lasted a while.

Repurchase? Yes.

Tula Dual-Phase Skin Reviving Treatment Pads – This was an interesting exfoliating product. You use one side to disperse some serum and flip it over and then use the exfoliating side.

Repurchase? It has witch hazel which I think I am allergic to, but if it didn’t have it, I would consider repurchasing.

The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil Night Mask – This mask has a strong smell. While tea tree does work to prevent and improve acne, it’s just such a strong smell. I feel like the tea tree blemish stick (read my review) worked better for me as a spot treatment. I don’t think I used this enough for it to work really well.

Repurchase? No.

Benefit 24-Hr Brow Setter Shaping & Setting Gel – I got a deluxe sample of this and I did like the brush of this, but I didn’t love the gel itself. It was sticky like glue. Once it started to dry out, it was flaky like when glue dries. It did make my brows look very natural when combined with a pencil.

Repurchase? No.
Love,

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Revisiting My 2018 Favourites | Part 2

May 17, 2019

Hi Everyone!
It’s been almost six months since Part 1 of Revisiting My 2018 Favourites. So, here’s Part 2! This post is for July to December’s beauty faves.

Click here if you missed Part 1!

JULY

BCL Spa Sugar Scrub Lavender + Mint – I absolutely loved this. It smelled amazing and the scrub made my skin feel so soft and smell good.

Repurchase? If I could find it for cheaper than $40 somewhere, I would! I’ll have to check salons in Toronto to see if they sell in-store. I’ve only found the brand on Amazon for $50+ or on wholesale sites.

BCL Spa Dead Sea Salt Soak Lavender + Mint – As much as I loved this, I probably wouldn’t buy it again since it’s so expensive. I would rather buy the sugar scrub.

Repurchase? No.

Sonia Roselli Water Balm – Loved this!! It was a great moisturizer and primer, I will definitely get this again!

Repurchase? Yes!

Tarte Tarteist Creamy Matte Lip Paint in Birthday Suit – I liked this, but I need to find a shade that’s more my style.

Repurchase? Yes.

Colors by Llarowe Nail Polish in The Deep End – This is a pretty mermaid-y shade.

Repurchase? I would repurchase from the brand, but I probably wouldn’t buy a similar shade. I want to streamline my nail polishes and purchase shades that don’t have shimmer (neutrals, reds, wines, etc.)

AUGUST

Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge -I love the flat side of this sponge.

Repurchase? Yes! It would be great if I can find a 4-pack for $20 again!

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil – I enjoyed the little deluxe sample I had!

Repurchase? YES!

Soo’Ae Juice Mango Glow Mask – No offense to face masks, but I feel like (for the most part), they all feel the same. Unless one is specifically meant for something like drawing out impurities, the hydrating, brightening, plumping sheet masks all make my face feel the same.

Repurchase? Yes.

elf Studio Matte Lip Color in Tea Rose -This lipstick felt nice for a matte lip colour. This specific shade did not look good on me. It looked okay once I topped it with gloss though.

Repurchase? No, I prefer satin finish lipsticks.

Laneige BB Cushion Hydra Radiance SPF50 – As someone who deals with acne, I can’t just use this product. I need something with a bit more coverage. This is a very nice and affordable product, but I need something with a bit more coverage than what this offers.

Repurchase? Possibly (when my skin is clear and when they have a better shade range). Although the scent is quite strong.

SEPTEMBER

Benefit Precisely, My Brow Ultra Fine Shape & Define in 6 – LOVE THIS!

Repurchase? Absolutely!

Diorshow Bold Brow in 002 Dark – I love this, but won’t repurchase until they expand the shades (if that ever happens). The shade 002 Dark is the darkest and it leans gray.

Repurchase? I would if they had a darker shade.

OPI Nail Lacquer in Step Right Up! – I love this shade! It’s a beautiful sheer pink.

Repurchase? If It’s still available when I finish my current bottle, I would definitely repurchase.

Clinique Acne Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel – This gel works well, but since it has salicylic acid, it can make my face a bit itchy and/or red.

Repurchase? Maybe.

Pixi Aspyn Ovard Glow-y Powder in Santorini Sunset – This is a beautiful champagne highlighter.

Repurchase? No longer available.

OCTOBER

Tarte Amazonian Clay Full Coverage Airbrush Foundation in Light-Neutral – Loooove this powder! I think I need a lighter shade though.

Repurchase? Yes!!

Thayers Witch Hazel Alcohol-Free Cucumber Toner – I think I’m allergic to witch hazel (or at least, I can’t tolerate a heavy concentration of it).

Repurchase? No.

The Face Shop Multi-Layer Cotton Pads – I love these! They are much stronger than the Muji Peelable Cotton Pads.

Repurchase? Yes.

Unknown Brand of Cotton Swabs (flat end and pointy end) – These are really useful! I like that it has a pointy end.

Repurchase? Yes.

Tarte Timeless Smoothing Primer – I love this primer.

Repurchase? Yes.

NOVEMBER

Kopari Coconut Deodorant – It’s aluminum-free! It also smells really nice when you sniff it from the tube, but it can sometimes be too much for me (especially since I don’t looooove coconut). Also, since it’s got a strong scent, I feel like I shouldn’t wear my perfume when I do wear it because it will clash.

Repurchase? Yes, I would try one of the other scents (or even unscented).

Etude House Lip & Eye Remover – This is great for removing my makeup.

Repurchase? Yes.

Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer in Light – Really love this concealer.

Repurchase? Yes.

TULA Acne Clearing + Tone Correcting Gel – When I first got this, I was using it twice a day and then I stopped for a bit and realized that while it does work, my face was so dry because of the salicylic acid. I’ve cut down to using it only when I feel a pimple coming (like a spot treatment) instead of using it all over.

Repurchase? I would.

DECEMBER

NARS Soft Matte Complete Concealer – This concealer is awesome for spot concealing and I would definitely purchase in a lighter shade as an under eye concealer.

Repurchase? Yes.

The Body Shop Aloe Calming Foaming Wash – This was very gentle and I love foaming cleansers.

Repurchase? Yes, but on sale.

EcoTools Shading Brush – Love this brush. It’s so soft!!

Repurchase? I would definitely buy more EcoTools brushes.

Kat Von D Shade + Light Contour Palette – I really just wanted to try this once to see why everyone loved it so much. I’m glad that they offer a duo now instead of having to get all six shades.

Repurchase? I love the sombre shade for contouring, but I would rather buy another brand for obvious reasons.

Do you still love your favourites from last year?

Love,

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January 2019 Product Empties

January 29, 2019

Hi Everyone!
Here are this month’s empties! Can’t believe it’s already the end of the month. I probably say that each month, but January really went by so quickly!
Tula Pro-Glycolic 10% pH Resurfacing Gel – I really liked this toner, it didn’t cause any irritation or additional redness to the areas of my face (nose and chin) that are already red.

Repurchase? Yes! I want to use up my Pixi Glow Tonic before I repurchase this though.

Tula Illuminating Face Serum – LOOOVE THIS! It was light and it helped lighten some dark spots on my face!

Repurchase? Already did!

Tula Hydrating Day & Night Cream – Although this is fairly light in texture, it’s a bit too heavy for my personal liking. Also, I prefer a tube or bottle instead of a pot for hygienic reasons. I’m going to try the gel products from Tula to see if I prefer those.

Repurchase? Maybe. If I find a gel product I like better, I would prefer to buy that instead.

Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil – I don’t know why, but the smell of this oil reminded me of a fruit roll up? I have no idea why. I decided not to use this on my face because I love the Tarte Maracuja Oil so much and it’s been working. I didn’t really want to try a new product and possibly have a reaction. I used it on my hands and feet since they’re so dry from the winter air.

Repurchase? Probably not.

The Body Shop Aloe Vera Gentle Foaming Wash – This is exactly what it says in the title: gentle, foamy and aloe.

Repurchase? Yes, on sale.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask (mini) – Love this.

Repurchase? Would definitely purchase a full-size pot.

Origins Original Skin Retexturizing Mask with Rose Clay (mini) – I liked this, but I wouldn’t say I loved it (probably because I don’t love rose-scented products). It did make my skin feel very soft after using it.

Repurchase? Probably not, but I would try other Origins masks.
Innisfree No Sebum Mineral Powder – This powder was great at mattifying the t-zone, but it did make my undereyes looks quite dry when I set my concealer.

Repurchase? No. I wasn’t a huge fan of the minty-herbal scent of it.

NYX Micro Brow Pencil in Black – On a whim, I decided to try this brow pencil and ended up loving it. This was my second time purchasing it and I will definitely pick it up again.

Repurchase? Eventually. I think I will try the second darkest shade since the Black can be a bit too dark (even on my dark brows). I want to try other brow products before circling back to it though.

Essence I Love Colour Intensifying Eyeshadow Base – I barely used this because I don’t really wear colourful eyeshadows to begin with. Although I did test this and it did make shadows more vibrant; I’m not sure about longevity though. You would probably need to use this with a primer if you wanted to extend the wear time of your shadows.

Repurchase? No. I don’t need it.

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion (mini) – I have no idea when I got this, so it’s good I finished it :/

Repurchase? I think so.

The Estée Edit The Edgiest Kohl ShadowStick in 03 Guilt – This was okay, it wasn’t the best shadow stick I’ve ever used. I still have an extra that I bought in the same shade.

Repurchase? Brand is no longer available in stores.

Flower Beauty On Your Mark Liquid Eye Liner in Black – I don’t know why I bought this because I don’t really wear liquid liner. I just saw Flower Beauty at Winners and got excited to try something from the line.

Repurchase? No.

Clio Kill Black Calligraphy Liner in 01 Black – Again, I made an impulse purchase at Winners because I wanted to try a brand that I’d never used before. I had also heard a few YouTubers talk about the Kill Black Liner, but this wasn’t the one. The Clio Kill Black Waterproof Pen Liner is the that people like.

Repurchase? No.

What did you finish this month?
Love,

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Revisiting My 2018 Favourites | Part 1

January 4, 2019

Hi Everyone!

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

Revisiting My 2017 Favourites

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

JANUARY

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

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

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

Repurchase? Yes.

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

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

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

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

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

Repurchase? I’ve already repurchased it.

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

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

FEBRUARY

MAC Strobe Cream – I love the Pinklite!

Repurchase? Probably.

Pixi Glow Tonic – LOVE THIS!

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

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

Repurchase? Probably not.

MARCH

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

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

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

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

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

Repurchase? Probably not.

APRIL

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

Repurchase? Maybe.

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

Repurchase? Maybe.

Soo’Ae Caada Purifying Brightening Peeling Gel – LOVE!

Repurchase? Yes!

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

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

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

Repurchase? No. Pigments are too messy for me.

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

Repurchase? No.

MAY

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

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

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

Repurchase? No.

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

Repurchase? No.

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

Repurchase? Possibly.

JUNE

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

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

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

Repurchase? Yes.

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

Repurchase? Possibly.

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

Repurchase? Yes, but without the scent.

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

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

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

Repurchase? Unavailable.

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

Repurchase? Probably not.

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

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

Click here for Part 2!

Did you spot any of your favourites on my list?

Love,

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December 2018 Faves

December 28, 2018

Hi Everyone!
I can’t believe it’s time for my monthly faves again! ANNND, it’s the last one of the year!
I could’ve sworn that I chose the @narsissist Soft Matte Complete Concealer as a previous feature friday…I checked and I haven’t, so here we are! I am in loooove with this concealer. It blends beautifully into the skin. I haven’t used it as an under eye concealer because the shade I have is a bit too dark to use it as one. I use it as a spot concealer (I have the shade Custard). I’ve been using it for a while now and I’ve barely made a dent in it.
I’m really loving this EcoTools shading brush. It’s the perfect brush for applying the base shadow. It’s super soft and blends beautifully. I also like how the handle is tapered which makes it nice and easy to hold.
Foaming face washes are my fave. I love this The Body Shop Aloe Calming Foaming Wash. As it says on the bottle, it’s very gentle on sensitive skin. I use it every day and I got it in September which means it lasts about 3 months. Although, sometimes I have used more than 1 pump, so I could probably stretch it to 4 next time. It is a bit pricey, so I suggest waiting for a sale if you plan to pick this up.
I know Kat von D is controversial at the moment and people are boycotting the brand because of her personal choice to not vaccinate her child. I also know that so many people love this palette that I decided to put aside whatever conflicting views I may have with her own personal views and try the Shade + Light Contour Palette.
While I haven’t had the chance to try all of the shades, I love the shade sombre for my contour (true taupe contour). It’s the perfect one for my skin tone. The others look a bit dark, but I can use those as eyeshadow or maybe use them for when I just take Instagram selfies so that you can actually see the contour in pictures. I would definitely consider buying the shade sombre when I finish this one or maybe I can find a dupe from another brand.
I made these brown sugar cookies for Christmas and they are so yummy. Especially when you use them after they’ve cooled down enough to make ice cream sandwiches. I just used vanilla ice cream because we had some for apple pie, but since the cookies are plain, you could use any ice cream!
Love,

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November 2018 Product Empties

December 3, 2018

Hi Everyone!

Here are last month’s product empties:

Amika Nourishing Mask – I got this on Amazon, so this is the old packaging. The new one looks pretty much the same (design-wise), but the font is a bit bigger. This mask made my hair smooth and shiny.

Repurchase? Maybe. I did really enjoy it, but I think I would rather get a hair mask from the drugstore because I really enjoyed the Garnier ones I’ve tried.

Sephora Yuzu Micellar Cleansing Water – The lemon scent makes me think of dish soap. While it does the job to remove makeup, it kind of makes my eyelids tingle. I gave it to my mom (who doesn’t have sensitive skin) and she noticed that when she used it, her face would be red after removing her makeup. She rarely has reactions from products, so it was weird. I used what was left in the bottle to clean my makeup sponge.

Repurchase? I don’t think they sell it anymore. Even if they did, I would not repurchase.

Tarte Maracuja Oil – I love this oil! I use it as a moisturizer and a primer.

Repurchase? I already repurchased a supersize bottle! The supersize is available on Tarte and it’s $22 more than the regular size, but twice the size. I got it during the Black Friday sale when it was 20% off!

Make Up For Ever Step 1 Equalizer Primer (Redness Correcting) – I love the MUFE primers, but this one is kind of useless. If you want to colour correct redness, get an actual concealer that corrects instead of a primer. I’ve written a This or That post comparing this to the Smashbox primer. While this one performs better than the Smashbox one, it still doesn’t do as much as an actual colour corrector.

Repurchase? Not the redness correcting primer, but I have already repurchased other MUFE Step 1 Equalizer Primers.
The Body Shop Pink Grapefruit Exfoliating Gel Body Scrub (read my review) – The gel texture of this made me use it faster because it was easy to just scoop some out with my hand and get too much.

Repurchase? No.

BCL SPA Lavender + Mint Dead Sea Salt Soak – I enjoyed this a lot and it made me feel very relaxed.

Repurchase? Probably not.

BCL SPA Lavender + Mint Sugar Scrub (not pictured) (read my review) – I loooved this; it smells amazing and makes your skin feel baby smooth. I’m sad I used it up so quickly because it’s so expensive.

Repurchase? Probably not. I just can’t justify the price tag, but I will try to duplicate it with a DIY sugar scrub or find one that’s more accessible and affordable.

Live Clean Coconut Milk Moisturizing Shampoo & Conditioner (conditioner is not pictured) – I liked the smell of this and it made my hair feel soft.

Repurchase? Possibly.

Johnson’s Baby Shampoo – I used this to clean my makeup brushes and sponges.

Repurchase? Yes.
Lady Speed Stick Invisible in Cool & Fresh – The smell is very nice, but after a while, it started to smell different; not as fresh. I want to start using natural deodorants that don’t have aluminum.

Repurchase? No.

Delectable by Cake Beauty The Everything Powder – When I first tried it, I loved it. It doesn’t have talc and it was great to use as a setting powder, but I just don’t love the smell that much. I’ve said it multiple times, but it smells like this toy that my cousin had. It was a baby that comes with a bottle and spoon and you put the spoon in the bottle and it ‘fills’ up with cherries and you feed the baby and the cherries disappear.

Repurchase? No.

Delectable by Cake Beauty The Everything Balm – I enjoyed this when I got a little tube from a Topbox, so I bought a full-sized bottle. The full size comes with a pump, but the pump sucks. It doesn’t dispense the product and it smells a bit different from when I used the small tube.

Repurchase? No.

COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches (read my review) – I love these. They’re amazing.

Repurchase? YES!!

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Eye Gel Cream (read my review) – This didn’t hydrate my eyes as much as other eye products I’ve tried which was disappointing because it’s a good price for an eye cream.

Repurchase? No.
Essence The False Lashes Extreme Volume & Curl Mascara (read my review) – This mascara held the curl of my lashes well, but it was quite flaky.

Repurchase? No.

Rimmel Moisture Renew Universal Transparent Lip Liner in 001 Universal – This is a clear lip liner that you can use for any lipstick. The only problem with it was that I could see where I was drawing on my lips. Also, it’s retractable and I prefer a pencil that you can sharpen so I can get a more defined line.

Repurchase? No.

Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in 855 Berry Smoothie – This was a gorgeous shade, but I just didn’t like it on me. It looked like my lips were stained from eating berries and I always wore it with Vaseline on top or underneath to sheer it out.

Repurchase? I would consider repurchasing a Revlon Super Lustrous lipstick, but not in this shade.

Bourjois Twist Up The Volume Mascara (read my review) – This was an interesting mascara, but if I were to spend over $20 on a mascara, I would get one from Sephora that I like better.

Repurchase? No.

Milani Color Statement Lipstick in 26 Nude Crème – I loved this shade. It was a “My Lips But Better” shade, but I didn’t love the watermelon scent of the lipstick.

Repurchase? Maybe.

Check out my Black Friday Haul!

What did you finish last month?

Love,

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October 2018 Product Empties

October 31, 2018

Hi Everyone!
Happy Hallowe’en! Here are this month’s product empties.
Dove Advanced Hair Series Regenerative Nourishment Serum-in-Oil (read my review) – I don’t do a lot of things to my hair, so it’s in pretty good shape. I don’t think I really need a hair oil, but I think every now and then I’d use a hair mask. This did make my hair feel soft, so if you need something to help smooth and soften your hair, I’d recommend this.

Repurchase? Probably not.

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Oil – I got a little sample of this and it lasted a long time (probably because I liked it and I was saving it until I bought another). I mostly used it on and around my nose to moisturize those areas. It could sometimes look cakey in those areas after a few hours of wearing foundation. So, I learned to be light-handed with it and make sure it absorbed before applying my makeup on top.

Repurchase? Absolutely. Although, right now, I’m using the Tarte Maracuja Oil instead (it’s cheaper because it has more in the bottle for the price).

Milani Keep It Sweet Sugar Scrub (read my review) – Initially, I really liked it, but I realized it was kind of just moving the loose skin on my lips back and forth instead of actually scrubbing it off. I would rather use a warm, wet cloth to exfoliate or use the elf lip scrub.

Repurchase? No.

Sonia Roselli Water Balm (read my review) – When I first got this, I used way too much of it. I learned that a smaller scoop went a long way because when you rub your hands together, it turns to water beads.

Repurchase? Absolutely!

Bobbi Brown Intensive Long Wear Makeup Remover – This was a really good makeup remover, but there are tons of drugstore brands that are more affordable. I only had this because I got it free when I purchased a palette from Nordstrom.

Repurchase? No.

First Aid Hello FAB Coconut Skin Smoothie Priming Moisturizer – I don’t really love the smell of this. I’d rather get the Sonia Roselli Water Balm if I’m going to get a 2-in-1 moisturizer and primer.

Repurchase? No.
Live Clean Biotin Extra Body Shampoo & Conditioner – This shampoo says it thickens and volumizes. While I could use some volume in my hair, it definitely doesn’t need to be thicker. I liked the smell of this shampoo and conditioner. I didn’t really notice if it did, in fact, thicken and volumize my hair. I noticed that this conditioner was the thickest of the Live Clean conditioners I tried.

Repurchase? No, my hair is already thick.

Garnier Skin Active Micellar Water (Waterproof) – This micellar water is great to remove makeup. Although, it does have an oily feeling. So, if you prefer not to have that feeling, get the pink one that’s not for removing waterproof makeup.

Repurchase? Absolutely, but I want to try other micellar waters.
Shiseido Benefiance Extra Creamy Cleansing Foam – This had some type of bead in it which I didn’t like. If I’m using a foamy cleanser, I want it to be nice and smooth. This was very fragranced and I’m not sure if my skin had a reaction from it.

Repurchase? No.

Earth Therapeutics Purifying Foot Scrub – I bought this a loooong time ago at Winners. It’s a good scrub and it made my feet and hands feel smooth, but I don’t know if they still sell it. One thing that I didn’t like is that it was really hard to squeeze out product, I don’t know if it was a flaw in the design or something, but I always had to use both hands to squeeze out the scrub.

Repurchase? Probably not.

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Foaming Scrub – I think this was an old formula, so it still had the plastic beads to exfoliate. I was using it every day which was too much for me. If I use it a few times a week, I think it would’ve been okay. I didn’t really love this product.

Repurchase? Probably not.

The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Body Wash – This product worked well. It concerned me that it said not to use on the face though- how much stronger is it than their other tea tree products?

Repurchase? Possibly.
Essence Get BIG! Lashes Triple Black Mascara (read my review) – This mascara does darken and volumize my lashes…and it’s a great price! The brush is just too big for my lashes.

Repurchase? No.

Inglot x Jennifer Lopez Lipglossy Lip Gloss in Pinky (read my review) – This is a beautiful lip gloss shade, but it’s so expensive and I don’t really like that it’s scented.

Repurchase? No.

Bobbi Brown Intensive Skin Serum Concealer in Warm Ivory – I did not like this concealer. I would rather get a drugstore one than use this one. I got a bit of a reaction from using this concealer under my eyes. When I swatched on my hand and blended it out, it would look beautiful, but when I used it under my eyes, it would just look terrible. I’m glad I didn’t pay full price for this (bought it at the MAC Warehouse Sale).

Repurchase? NO.

Maybelline Fit Me Shine-Free Balance Stick Foundation in 130 Buff Beige (read my review) – I actually really loved this foundation (I think I preferred it to the liquid Fit Me). It lasted throughout the day on hot summer days. Of course, I would still get shiny in the t-zone, but it still looked really good after 8 hours of wear. I don’t know how it would do on someone with oily skin, but it worked great on my normal-dry skin. I’ve compared it to the Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation stick (read my review).

Repurchase? If I were going to continue buying drugstore foundations, I would definitely buy this again.

bareMinerals BAREPRO Performance Wear Powder Foundation in Cashmere – This was a sample size and I really liked using it to pop in my purse (because of the size of the sample) for spot conceal touch-ups. I also liked using it to clean up my brows.

Repurchase? I prefer loose powder foundations, but I would definitely consider bareMinerals.

OPI Mini Nail Lacquer in Tickle My France-y – I love this colour, it’s a pinky-purple shade. I have to declutter this mini because the polish was starting to get really thick when I painted it onto my nails.

Repurchase? Yes.

What did you finish this month?

Love,

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My Skincare Rotation

October 15, 2018

Hi Everyone!

I thought I would do a post to show you what’s on rotation for my everyday skincare. The skincare products I use are pretty basic. I don’t use a lot of acids because I know that some don’t pair well together and it’s easier for me to just not use too many. I do use salicylic acid for acne and there’s Glycolic Acid in the Pixi Glow Tonic, but that’s all I use.

Let’s start with my every day cleanser: The Body Shop Aloe Vera Gentle Foaming Wash. It’s a very gentle cleanser that hasn’t irritated my skin. At least once a week, I exfoliate using the Soo’Ae Purifying Brightening Peeling Gel or the Tarte Rainforest of the Sea Frxxxtion Stick 3-in-1 Exfoliating Cleanser.

Once I’ve cleansed, I move on to toners. I’ve been using Pixi Glow Tonic. I use it in the morning and at night after I’ve washed my face. I really love it and it has become a staple in my skincare. I used to use it every day twice a day (AM/PM), but since it exfoliates the face, I don’t use it every day because I have sensitive skin and since I also use other exfoliators, I don’t want to over-exfoliate.

I picked up the Thayers Alcohol-Free Cucumber Witch Hazel Toner from Winners. I’ve been using it in the morning and I can see why everyone loves the toners from Thayers. I also bought the Unscented one too, but I’ll wait until I’m finished this one before opening that one up.

I also use the The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil Skin Clearing Mattifying Toner. The smell is quite strong, so I only use this at night time or on days I’m not leaving the house. I will also use the The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil on days I’m not leaving the house because it has an even stronger smell. I was surprised when I first used the tea tree oil because it isn’t oily like other oils I’ve used. It’s similar to another product from The Body Shop that I used to use (I don’t think it’s available anymore, but it was the Anti-Imperfection Daily Solution).

To moisturize, I will alternate between using my Sonia Roselli Water Balm (read my review) and Tarte Maracuja Oil. I use both products in AM and PM. They’re also both great to use as primers before applying makeup. I would use the Water Balm to moisturize the skin and then use a smoothing primer to minimize pores. I also use the Maracuja Oil as a primer to hydrate my nose (and around it), and my under eyes if they’re looking dry. I will take a drop or two and make sure it has absorbed into the skin well before applying my makeup. Lately, I have also been using the Maracuja Oil on my hands and feet before bed (with cotton gloves and socks). It’s made my hands super smooth and helped clear up some dry patches on my knuckles.

I just emptied the Water Balm, so I have been using the Waso Quick Matte Oil-Free Moisturizer (read my review). I love the consistency of it (gel), but I’m not a huge fan of the smell. It’s a bit too floral for me. I will keep using it and write a full review, but I don’t think it will be a new skincare staple of mine.

For my under eyes, I’ve been using the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Cream (Eyes) (read my review), but it’s not a favourite of mine and I won’t be picking up another. For my lips, I just use Vaseline Jelly Original. Before getting the Maracuja Oil, I would use the Vaseline to moisturize my hands by slathering it all over and then putting cotton gloves on. I’m glad I have the oil now because it absorbs faster than the vaseline and doesn’t stain my gloves and bedsheets.

For sleeping masks, I use the Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask (read my review). I will use this once a week (when I remember). I also have The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil Anti-Imperfection Night Mask, I’ve used it once so far and it definitely helped bring some pimples out.

When I feel a pimple coming, I will use the Clinique Acne Solutions Clinical Clearing Gel. If there’s a whitehead, I will pop on a COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch (read my review).

My skincare routine is fairly simple. Since I have sensitive skin, I prefer gel-like products that are light. Heavy creams don’t seem to react well with my skin. I’ve found that these products have been working for me, so why add more when I don’t need it. Every now and then, I will pop on a sheet mask too.

What’s in your skincare rotation?

Love,

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This or That | BCL SPA Lavender + Mint Sugar Scrub vs. The Body Shop Pink Grapefruit Exfoliating Gel Body Scrub

October 12, 2018

Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m comparing two different types and also two different brands of body scrubs. There are a few different types: sugar, coffee, salt, herbal, etc. I’m comparing sugar scrubs with a fruit scrub (this isn’t what it’s called, but since it’s made of fruit and uses orange peel and corncob granules, I’m going to call it a fruit scrub).

I haven’t tried coffee, salt or herbal scrubs. I did try a DIY coffee scrub, but I don’t think I did it right and it got SOOO messy. I think any coffee scrub is going to be really messy and I don’t think I’ll like it for that reason.
The Body Shop Pink Grapefruit Exfoliating Gel Body Scrub – I thought this was the old formula that they used to have (the sugar scrub). So, it was a surprise to find that it was a gel-based scrub.

Revitalize and soften your skin using an invigorating, gel-based scrub with gently exfoliating orange peel and corncob granules. Pink grapefruit seed oil provides essential fatty acids to repair skin’s moisture barrier, so it feels smooth and supple. Community Trade organic honey moisturizes and conditions skin.
BCL SPA Lavender + Mint Sugar Scrub – I won this in a giveaway, so I don’t know how easy it is to get this in the US. It looks like it’s a bit harder to get in Canada (or it’s really expensive on Amazon) because it’s for professionals only/wholesale. I really love it though.

Natural sugar suspended in certified organic oils create the base of our luxurious scrub for hands, feet and body. The sugar works to exfoliate dead cells from the skin, while our blend of precious Argan, Olive, Jojoba and Spearmint oils leave you velvety soft and glowing.
WINNER (Type): Sugar scrubs

WINNER (Brand): BCL SPA Lavender + Mint Sugar Scrub

I chose the BCL SPA sugar scrub because I just love how smooth my skin feels and I absolutely love the smell of the lavender and mint. I chose the sugar scrub as the winner because it doesn’t leave anything behind. If you have a warm bath/shower, the sugar easily dissolves. On the other hand, I don’t like the Pink Grapefruit one because the corncob granules are left behind in the shower. They still go down the drain, but I’m worried that it will help clog the pipes faster especially if hair is already stuck in there. Also, since sugar scrubs are thicker, I feel like I use the right amount needed, whereas with the fruit scrub, I scoop out too much. The pink grapefruit does have a nice refreshing scent, but since I take showers/baths at night, I want something more relaxing and calming instead of ‘WAKE UP!’

I think I will try making a DIY sugar scrub once I’ve finished these two body scrubs.

What type of body scrubs do you use?

Love,

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The Body Shop Skincare Haul | September 2018

September 26, 2018
Hi Everyone!

As you may have already gathered, I really like The Body Shop skincare products. The tea tree oil line has been great for controlling and preventing acne.

Check out my reviews:

Tea Tree Oil Anti-Imperfection Daily Solution (I don’t think they sell this anymore)

Tea Tree Oil Targeted Gel Blemish Stick

Colour Adapting BB Cream

The Body Shop was having a Buy 2, Get 1 Free sale, so I decided to pick up products that I haven’t tried yet. I chose three of the tea tree oil products, an aloe cleanser and the pink grapefruit exfoliating gel scrub.
Tea Tree Oil

I tried this out already and it’s not oily like the Tarte Maracuja Oil (which I was expecting), it was similar to the Anti-Imperfection Daily Solution. It smells very strong (more than the solution).
- Targeted care for blemished skin
- Can be used direct on skin or for facial steaming
- Soothing
- Does not dry out skin
Tea Tree Oil Anti-Imperfection Night Mask

I have not tried this yet, but I’m excited to see how well it works.
- Skin instantly looks and feels refreshed, purified, and soothed.
- In the morning, imperfections* appear reduced.
- Skin looks healthier, smoother, and mattified.
- Improves appearance of pores.
- Helps maintain clearer-looking skin.
- Tone, texture, and oiliness
- Features a refreshing memory-gel texture and is infused with tea tree oil grown in the foothills of Mount Kenya.
- Alcohol-free, no pillow-staining formula.
- TOP TIP: Pop the Night Mask in the fridge for an ultra-refreshing feeling.
Tea Tree Oil Skin Clearing Mattifying Toner

I haven’t tried this yet because I recently picked up the Thayers Witch Hazel toner and just started using it. I didn’t want to try too many new products all at once.
- Refreshing, purifying toner
- Made with purifying tea tree oil from the foothills of Mount Kenya
- Removes residual make-up and impurities
- Shake-to-activate mattifying powders reduce shine
- Skin appears visibly clearer
- Pores appear tighter
Pink Grapefruit Exfoliating Body Scrub

I’ve used their body scrub before, but they’ve reformulated it since then. I’ve tried the one that’s more like a sugar scrub. This one is interesting because it’s a gel texuture, but then when you rub it in, you can feel the grittiness of it. It smells refreshing and it works well. Is it worth $22 though? I’m not sure.
- Body exfoliator
- Smoothes and refines skin
- Buffs away dead skin cells
- Leaves skin beautifully softer and refined
- Fresh, energizing gel texture
- Energizing scent
Aloe Vera Gentle Foaming Wash

This is very light and I like that it’s foamy. My sensitive skin hasn’t reacted to it, but it is a bit pricey when it’s regular price.
- Formulated for sensitive skin
- Pure Community Trade aloe from Campeche, Mexico
- No added fragrance, color or alcohol
- Formulated without preservatives
I will post reviews of the Tea Tree Oil products once I’ve tested them out properly.

What are your fave Body Shop products?

Love,
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15 Beauty Favourites I’ve Repurchased | 2018

August 13, 2018

Hi Everyone!

I love a lot of different makeup products, but surprisingly I’ve only repurchased a small number of products and most of them are skincare. There are so many amazing products out there that I want to try and I only really started getting into makeup a few years ago. I mean I’ve always liked makeup, but I’m still learning and hearing about new brands and products.

Before 2013, I never wore foundation or primers. My first foundation was the Becca Ever-Matte Shine Proof Foundation. I rarely wore it because it was so expensive and I had no idea what I was doing. I didn’t know primer was a thing back then and I told the Sephora lady that I wanted full coverage and I liked matte. She told me to buy a flat liquid foundation brush because it’s better for applying full coverage. I learned about using sponges years later and even then, I didn’t know it was supposed to be damp. *idea pops into head*…maybe I’ll do a blog post on things I’ve learned over the past few years. It could help someone who’s just getting into makeup. Watching videos on YouTube and reading other blogs has helped me a lot. There have been so many times where I was like “OOOHHH!!!! that makes so much more sense!!!” Anyway, the Becca foundation went bad before I even finished it (it oxidized- I had no idea what ‘oxidizing’ was back then. I just knew that the foundation had turned orange). Before 2016, I had never worn bronzer or highlighter and didn’t like wearing lipstick; I mostly wore lip balm, vaseline or gloss.

I have yet to find a lot of my holy grail products. I have a lot of favourites, but I don’t have products in each category that I could safely say, “I only need to buy this mascara/concealer/foundation from now on!” In my favourites list, I have a lot of products that I am planning to repurchase, I just haven’t had the chance to do so. I want to finish up other products I have first (as you’ll know from my mid-year makeup inventory). Since doing my makeup inventory, I’ve decluttered a lot of things.

Here are the 15 products I’ve repurchased (I’m sure there’s more, but these are the ones I could think of so far):

L’Oreal Voluminous Original Mascara – This was a favourite of mine in high school and I decided to get it again. It’s still a fave of mine- I wouldn’t say it gives amazing volume, but it helps my lashes.

L’Oreal Colour Riche Collection Exclusive Lipstick in 370 Jennifer’s Nude – I’ve probably talked about this lipstick so much that you’re tired of it by now, but it’s such a beautiful pinky-peachy-nude (it’s peachy when I swatch it, but not on my lips).

NYX Micro Brow Pencil – I love this brow pencil. It’s a great pencil for the price, but recently, I have been loving the Benefit Precisely My Brow Pencil.

Glow Recipe Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser (read my review) – I really like this cleanser and the fact that it removes makeup is a plus. I’ve been buying the tiny travel-sized ones from Winners because it’s hard to get Glow Recipe in Canada (their website ships to Canada, but I’m worried I’ll get charged duties- anyone order from Glow Recipe and know if there’s any duties?)

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Sleeping Mask (read my review) – This sleeping mask smells so good and when I wake up in the morning, my face feels hydrated.

Garnier Micellar Water – I love this micellar water. I feel like I should try a different brand just to compare it. Maybe I’ll do that once I’ve finished the bottles I have.

The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil Targeted Gel Blemish Stick (read my review) – I bought more of these on sale, but I think I will purchase something else for spot treatments. I don’t really like how it’s like a concealer where you use a doefoot applicator to apply it and then put it back into the tube.

The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil Anti-Imperfection Daily Solution (read my review) – I used this everyday until I finished the bottle. As a test, I stopped using it for a few weeks and then started applying it again and my face cleared up. Of course, I still have the dark spots from the acne, but it flattened them out which makes it easier to apply makeup.

COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches (read my review) – These things are great. If you haven’t tried acne patches, you should!

The Face Shop Rice Water Bright Rice Bran Foaming Cleanser, The Face Shop Phyto Charcoal Cleanser & The Face Shop 365 Spearmint Cleanser – I’ve bought these cleansers multiple times. I would use them every day when I showered (rotating between the two that I had in the bathroom). I think these cleansers were so good that they were making my face dry because I ran out of these cleansers a while ago and I’ve noticed my face hasn’t been as dry (still dry in some areas, but not as bad). When I buy these cleansers again, I’ll only buy one at a time and use it once or twice a week instead of daily.

Simple Makeup Wipes – I’ve been buying these at Winners because they’re cheaper there. I really like these makeup wipes and they’re great on the go, but since I’ve been using them, I haven’t been using my micellar water as much. Once I finish my current pack, I’ll go back to micellar water.

Soo’Ae Purifying Brightening Peeling Gel (read my review) – This peeling gel is awesome. It’s disgusting how your skin exfoliates off in little balls, but it works so well.

Pixi Glow Tonic – When I was using the little bottle of this from a holiday kit, my face looked brighter and clearer.

What products have you repurchased?

Love,

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Beauty Recommendations from Instagrammers

July 2, 2018

Hi Everyone!

Every now and then when I post a pic on Instagram, I’ll ask my Instagram followers for beauty recommendations and sometimes when I post about a new blog post, someone who recommend a brand they like that has a similar product. Here’s a list of products recommended by my fellow beauty Instagrammers. I provided links to the Instagram accounts of the ladies who recommended the products too.

As you know, I like The Body Shop’s Tea Tree Oil products. Check out my reviews of two of their products below!

Targeted Gel Blemish Stick | Anti-Imperfection Daily Solution

I was recommended several other products from the line.

Tea Tree Anti-Imperfection Night Mask

Tea Tree Oil

Tea Tree Oil Skin Clearing Foaming Cleanser

Tea Tree Oil Skin Clearing Mattifying Facial Toner

Recommended by @brittdanielsbeauty, @mia.ind & @themakeuptreasury

After posting about the Vasanti BrightenUp! Enzymatic Face Rejuvenator, I was recommended a similar product. This is the only recommendation where I hadn’t heard of the brand before. It’s always nice to learn about new brands.

Ongaro Probiotic Enzyme Exfoliator

Recommended by @thewellnessmama

After posting my This or That post on Cleansing Balms (comparing Clinique’s and Pixi’s), someone said the It Cosmetics balm was good. I can’t find the comment now, so I don’t know who recommended it.

IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Makeup 3-in-1 Makeup Melting Balm

I was asking for recommendations for favourite CC Creams and tinted moisturizers, I was recommended two:

IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Cream with SPF50+

NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF30

Recommended by @mariiacanoa & @celiniblini

I love facial mists, I have the Cucumber Water Hydrating Face Mist from Pearlessence that I got from Winners and the Pixi Hydrating Milky Mist (Read my review).

Saturday Skin Daily Dew Hydrating Essence Mist

Mario Badescu Facial Spray

Recommended by @rubiredlipstick & @girlandtheblossom

I love the Garnier Micellar Water and I was recommended the one with Argan Oil.

Garnier SkinActive Micellar Water with Argan Oil

Recommended by @jeanicaxx

NARS Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation

Recommended by @thewelshchic

Bobbi Brown Blush

NARS Blush

Revlon Powder Blush

TheBalm Blush

Recommended by @editionalbeauty & @icxbeauty

MAC Lipstick in Modesty (cremesheen)

MAC Lipstick in Velvet Teddy (matte)

MAC Lipstick in Peach Blossom (cremesheen)

Recommended by @swatchesbyeva, @lipglossnlashes82 & @shellsmakeupchair

What are some of your beauty recommendations/favourites?

Love,

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