This or That | Pimple Patches

May 19, 2022

Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m comparing Pimple patches! I’ve only tried hydrocolloid patches. I’ve never tried the microneedling ones and/or the ones with salicylic acid. I just use spot treatments instead. I may be missing out on the other types of pimple patches, but they’re so expensive for one time use.

The COSRX acne pimple master patches were the first one I tried. Then I tried the clear fit ones, nexcare acne absorbing covers and last, but not least, Rael.

I have tried eight different acne patches from six brands:

Tapered patches

COSRX Clear Fit Master Patch
Rael Invisible Spot Cover
Nacific Fresh Herb Origin Clear Spot Patch
Subi Beauty Perfect Pimple Patch

Non-tapered patches

COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches
Rael Overnight Spot Cover
PanOxyl PM Overnight Spot Patches
Nexcare Acne Absorbing Covers

I was sent the Subi Beauty Perfect Pimple Patches and PanOxyl PM Overnight Spot Patches to try, but all other patches were purchased by me.

Even though some claim that you can wear them with makeup, I wouldn’t. They’re less noticeable without any makeup (see my reviews for some pictures).

I’ve written about five different reviews/comparison reviews on my blog, so I thought I would collect all the information and update my thoughts in one post. You can check out my previous posts below:

Comparing Acne Patches | 2019

Reviews

COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches | COSRX Clear Fit Master Patches

This or That

COSRX vs. Rael | COSRX vs. Nexcare

acne patch — The pimple patch sizes I’ve tried so far

Non-tapered

Pros

absorb more than tapered ones
can wear them overnight

Cons

easier to detect (but you could still wear them out of the house, if you don’t care)
aren’t as flexible, so it could stick out if you have it on a curved part of your face
if they absorb too much or get wet, the edges can start to peel off

Tapered

Pros

harder to detect, so you can wear them out of the house
they stay on well, even if you get them a bit wet. I’ve washed my face with one on

Cons

don’t absorb as much
COSRX ones only come in one size
if they absorb too much, they could come off easily
if you wear them for too long, they get sticky/gummy

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jen (@jencatbeauty)

	Rael Overnight Spot Cover	COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch	Nexcare Acne Pimple Patch	PanOxyl Pm Overnight Spot Patches	Rael Invisible Spot Cover	COSRX Clear Fit Master Patch	Nacific Fresh Herb Origin Clear Spot Patch	Subi Beauty Perfect Pimple Patch	Rohto Mentholatum Blemish Cover Patch	COSRX AC Collection Acne Patch	JUMISO AC Cure Vegan Cover Patch Blemish Care	BY WISHTREND Clear Skin Shield Patch	Peace Out Salicylic Acid Acne Healing Dots	THEKSHOP Acne Pimple Patch	Some By Mi 30 Days Miracle Clear Spot Patch	SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tea-Trica Spot Cover Patch
type - hydrocolloid only vs. hydrocolloid with salicylic acid, tea tree, etc.	hydrocolloid	hydrocolloid	hydrocolloid	hydrocolloid	hydrocolloid	hydrocolloid	hydrocolloid	hydrocolloid	hydrocolloid	hydrocolloid	hydrocolloid	hydrocolloid	hydrocolloid with salicylic acid	hydrocolloid	hydrocolloid	hydrocolloid
perforated sheet?	perforated	not perforated	not perforated	not perforated	perforated	perforated	perforated	perforated	not perforated	perforated	perforated	perforated	not perforated	perforated	perforated	perforated
Tapered vs. non-tapered	non-tapered	non-tapered	non-tapered	non-tapered	tapered	tapered	tapered	tapered	non-tapered	tapered	tapered	tapered	non-tapered	tapered	tapered	tapered
# in a pack	52	24	36	40	48	18	18	18	28	26	30	36	20	39	18	22
7mm	-	10	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-
8mm	16	-	24	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-
9mm	-	-	-	20	-	-	-	-	28	-	-	-	-	-	-	-
10mm	20	5	-	-	24	18	9	18	-	-	18	-	-	24	9	12
12mm	12	9	12	20	24	-	9	-	-	-	12	24	-	15	9	10
13mm	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	20	-	-	-
14mm	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	12	-	-	-	-
9x13mm (oval)	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	9	-	-	-	-	-	-
11x16mm (oval)	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	9	-	-	-	-	-	-
15x23mm (oval)	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	8	-	-	-	-	-	-
thickness	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	0.2mm	-	0.4mm with 0.39 mm edge	-	-	-	-	-

COSRX Acne Pimple Master patches are the cheapest in terms of cost per patch. I didn’t take into account the sizes. There are more 7mm ones in the pack, so if you don’t use those as often, maybe one of the other brands is more cost effective for you.

	Cost (CAD)	Cost per patch
Subi Beauty Perfect Pimple Patch (54 count)	$24 USD from subibeauty.com	0.44
Rohto Mentholatum Blemish Cover Patch (28 count)	$9 from chuusi.ca	0.32
Rael Overnight Spot Cover (52 count)	$15.99 from amazon.ca	0.31
Rael Invisible Spot Cover (96 count)	$24.46 from amazon.a	0.25
Rael Invisible Spot Cover (72 count)	$21.40	0.30
Rael Invisible Spot Cover (48 count)	$14.52 from amazon.ca	0.32
PanOxyl PM Overnight Spot Patches (80 ct)	$20.99 from amazon.ca	0.26
PanOxyl PM Overnight Spot Patches (40 ct)	$11.99 from amazon.ca	0.30
Nexcare Acne Pimple Patch (36 count)	$13.40	0.37
Nexcare Acne Pimple Patch	$12.49 from shoppersdrugmart.ca	0.347
Nacific Fresh Herb Origin Clear Spot Patch	$5.99 from thekshop.ca	0.33
Mighty Patch Original Hydrocolloid Patches (36 count)	$12.77 from iHerb	0.35
COSRX Clear Fit Master Patch (18 count)	$4.80 from chuusi.ca	0.26
COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch (24 count)	$5 from chuusi.ca	0.208
COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patch (10 packs of 24 count)	$37 from amazon.ca ($3.70 per pack)	0.15
COSRX AC Collection Acne Patch (26 count)	$7.00 from chuusi.ca	0.27
JUMISO AC Cure Vegan Cover Patch Blemish Care (30 count)	$6.99 from thekshop.ca	0.23
BY WISHTREND Clear Skin Shield Patch (36 count)	$9.99 from thekshop.ca	0.278
Some By Mi 30 Days Miracle Clear Spot Patch (18 count)	$7.99 from thekshop.ca	0.44
THEKSHOP Acne Pimple Patch (39 count)	$9.99 from thekshop.ca	0.256
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Tea-Trica Spot Cover Patch (22 count)	$8 from thekshop.ca	0.36

Ranking the hydrocolloid patches in different categories:

Ease of use

Both Rael patches have perforated backings to make it easier to peel off the patches without folding them or ruining the side of the patch. One time I accidentally folded a bit of the side and then the patch didn’t lie flat on my skin. COSRX Clear Fit, Nacific and Subi Beauty patches also have perforated backings. PanOxyl and Nexcare do not have perforated backings.

Packaging

The Rael patches and the Nexcare patches come in boxes. The COSRX patches comes in a shiny plastic pouch, as does the Subi beauty (holographic) and Nacific which can’t be recycled. They all come in a little sleeve that keeps the patches sterile. My least favourite is the PanOxyl ones, it’s almost similar to the packaging of a bandaid where it’s hard to slide it back in because it’s a bit tacky.

Variety

The Rael and COSRX patches are best for variety of sizes and tapered vs. non-tapered. Rael also offers larger sizes (for body) and micro-crystal patches. COSRX also sells AC Collection ones that are oval-shaped.

Accessibility

COSRX and Rael can be bought on multiple sites. Nexcare is available on Amazon.ca and the Shoppers Drug Mart website. Subi beauty, I think, can only be purchased on their website. Nacific patches are pretty accessible to Canadians, but they’re more expensive than the others that I like.

Most of the patches perform the same, but the Nexcare ones weren’t sticky enough (stuck to my hair in the middle of the night) and the PanOxyl ones are almost too sticky that I’m afraid it’ll pull off some skin (especially if the pimple has popped and it’s an open wound.)

My top choices out of the brands would be Rael and COSRX. For me, the Rael ones are slightly more worth it because of the sizes available for both tapered and non-tapered. I rarely used the 7mm COSRX ones and, for some reason, they have more 7mm ones in their pack than the other sizes. I also like that Rael switched from a pouch with foil to a recyclable box.

What pimple patch brand is your favourite?

Love,

Brow Pencils & Gels | My Hits & Misses

May 8, 2020

Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m sharing my favourite brow products!

Check out my other Hits & Misses posts!

MAKEUP || Primers | Foundations | Powders | Concealers | 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.

My brow products of choice are pencils and gels. A few times I’ve used an matte shadow as eyebrow powder, but I prefer pencils. I’m not patient or skilled enough to use pomades.

Two years ago, I wrote a similar post reviewing brow products I’ve tried (read my post). I’ve tried quite a few products since then and found some that I like more.

I’ve also written a few comparison posts (with swatches), check them out below:

Lancôme Brow Shaping Powdery Pencil vs. Benefit Precisely, My Brow

Dior Diorshow BoldBrow vs. Benefit 24 Hour Brow Setter Shaping & Setting Gel

I don’t think they sell the Dior Diorshow BoldBrow anymore, they came out with a new product to replace it.

HITS

Colourpop Brow Boss Clear Gel – My friend recommended this clear gel and it’s my favourite clear gel that I’ve tried. It comes out of the tube white, but dries down clear. It leaves my brows feeling soft and not crunchy at all!

Benefit Gimme Brow+ Volumizing Eyebrow Gel in 5 Deep – One of my favourite tinted brow gels.

Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil Ultra Fine Shape & Define in 6 (read my review) – This has been one of my favourite brow pencils I’ve tried.

NYX Micro Brow Pencil in Black – A great drugstore micro brow pencil. This is a fave of mine as well.

LIKES

Anastasia Clear Brow Gel – This brow gel does get a bit crunchy, but it keeps my brows in place. I just wish the wand wasn’t so huge. It’s like a mascara wand. I would prefer a thinner one.

Lancôme Brow Shaping Powdery Pencil in Soft Black 09 (read my review) – I liked this brow pencil, but it felt like a waste to sharpen so much of it away. I prefer retractable pencils that you don’t have to sharpen. This pencil is nice for a natural look.

Kevyn Aucoin The Precision Brow Pencil in Dark Brunette – I wanted to try a different brow pencil, so I grabbed this Kevyn Aucoin one. It’s the first product I’ve tried from the brand. The shade is a good match for me, but it wipes off more easily than other brow products. I wouldn’t repurchase it.

NYX Fill & Fluff Pomade Pencil in Ash Brown – In my NYX Hits & Misses post, I put this in the HITS, but this is going into the LIKES section for this post. It’s a HIT for the products I’ve tried from NYX, but there’s other brow products I prefer. This is another pencil that I like from NYX. Although I prefer the Micro Brow pencil because it comes with a spoolie. This one comes with a little oval/paddle brush so you can diffuse what you drew on. You get a more filled in look with this pomade pencil.

MISSES

Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter Shaping & Setting Gel (read my review) – I don’t know if it was just the sample I got of this, but it was kind of tacky. When you pull the wandout, you would see a string of product from the wand to the tube. It kind of reminded me of clear lash glue in that way.

Benefit ka-BROW! Cream-Gel Eyebrow Color in 5 Deep – I got a deluxe sample of this and it’s just too intense for me.

Benefit Goof Proof Brow Pencil Easy Shape & Fill in 5 Deep – I prefer micro pencils so this was too thick for me. I prefer hair-like strokes instead of the filled in look.

Burt’s Bees Natural Brow Pencil in 1610 Brunette* – This only comes in two shades and the darker shade is too light for me. It was too waxy for my liking.

Maybelline Eye Studio Brow Precise Shaping Pencil in Deep Brown – This pencil was way too waxy for my liking and it never sharpened nicely.

Charlotte Tilbury Legendary Brows Eyebrow Gel in Perfect Brown – I just wanted to try some Charlotte Tilbury products so I bought this during the sale. I love the size of the brush and the colour was nice. It’s a nice product, but I don’t think it’s anything special and it’s the most expensive gel I’ve tried.

Brow Gels

Product	Price in CAD	Size	Cost per gram	# of shades available
Colourpop Brow Boss Clear Gel	7 USD = 8.85 CAD	3.10g	2.2	clear, 4 tinted
Anastasia Strong Hold Clear Brow Gel	29.50	7.85g	3.8	clear
L’Oréal Brow Stylist Boost & Set Volumizing Brow Mascara	13.49	3.2g	4.2	4 tinted
Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter Shaping & Setting Gel	32	7g	4.6	clear
Anastasia Clear Brow Gel (mini)	12	2,5g	4.8	clear
Benefit 24-HR Brow Setter Shaping & Setting Gel (value)	51	6g	8.5	3 tinted
Benefit Gimme Brow+ Volumizing Eyebrow Gel (mini)	19	3.5g	5.4	clear
Benefit Gimme Brow+ Volumizing Eyebrow Gel	32	3g	10.7	10 tinted
Benefit Gimme Brow+ Volumizing Eyebrow Gel (mini)	18	1.5g	12.7	10 tinted
Charlotte Tilbury Legendary Brows Eyebrow Gel	30	1.33g	22.6	4 tinted

Brow Pencils/Pomade Gels

Product	Price in CAD	Size	Cost per ounce	# of shades available
Benefit ka-BROW! Cream Gel Eyebrow Color	32	0.1oz	320	8 shades
Burt's Bees Brow Pencil	13.99	0.04oz	349	2 shades
Mini size Benefit ka-BROW! Cream Gel Eyebrow Color	19	0.05oz	380	3 shades
Maybelline Eye Studio Brow Precise Shaping Pencil	10.99	0.02oz	550	4 shades on Maybelline, 2 shades on Shoppers Drug Mart site
NYX Fill & Fluff Pomade Pencil	12.49	0.007oz	1784	8 shades
Benefit Goof Proof Brow Pencil Easy Shape & Fill	32	0.01oz	3200	12 shades
Benefit Goof Proof Brow Pencil Easy Shape & Fill (mini)	19	0.005oz	3800	3 shades
NYX Micro Brow Pencil	12.49	0.003oz	4163	8 shades
Anastasia Brow Wiz	28	0.003oz	9333	10 shades
Kevyn Aucoin The Precision Brow Pencil	32	0.003oz	10667	4 shades
Lancôme Brow Shaping Powdery Pencil	35	0.003oz	11667	9 shades
Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil Ultra Fine Shape & Define	32	0.02oz	16000	12 shades
Benefit Precisely, My Brow Pencil Ultra Fine Shape & Define (mini)	19	0.001oz	19000	12 shades

To Try

I have the Anastasia Brow Wiz in my collection, but I haven’t tried it yet. I bought it earlier this year and wanted to finish my Kevyn Aucoin pencil first.

Dior Diorshow Brow Styler Ultra-Fine Precision Brow Pencil
Dior Diorshow Pump ‘N’ Brow
Fenty Beauty Brow MVP Ultra Fine Brow Pencil & Styler
Hourglass Arch Brow Micro Sculpting Pencil
Hourglass Arch Brow Shaping Gel
Milk KUSH Fiber Brow Gel
Nudestix Eyebrow Stylus Pencil & Gel

What are your fave brow products?

Love,

Products marked with (*) were sent to me.

This or That | Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask vs. Lip Glowy Balm

November 12, 2019

Hi Everyone!
Today, I’m comparing two Laneige products: Lip Sleeping Mask vs. Lip Glowy Balm. The lip sleeping mask came out first and it was the first lip mask I’ve tried. Then they came out with the Lip Glowy Balm which could be considered the travel-friendly, daytime version of the Lip Sleeping Mask. They do have some differences (not just the packaging). I received the Lip Glowy Balm from Laneige Canada and won the Lip Sleeping Mask in a giveaway, but I would’ve bought both on my own.
Lip Sleeping Mask

A leave-on lip mask that soothes and moisturizes for smoother, more supple lips overnight. Lip Sleeping Mask has a softening balm texture that closely adheres to lips for quick absorption. A generous layer of this soothing mask at bedtime helps reduce flakiness so you can wake up to lips that feel refreshed, supple, and soft to the touch.
Lip Glowy Balm

A lightweight, moisture-coating lip balm for hydrated, tinted, and kissable lips throughout the day. The perfect daytime partner in crime to the cult-favorite Lip Sleeping Mask, Glowy Lip Balm is pocket sized for easy, on-the-go application. The formula contains murumuru and shea butters that provide powerful hydration and lock in moisture longer.
Lip Sleeping Mask

$26 CAD (0.7oz/20g)

Comes in a pot with a spatula, not as travel-friendly

Available in Berry (Original), Vanilla, Apple Lime, Grapefruit, Mint Chocolate Chip (Limited Edition)

Lip Glowy Balm

$20 CAD (0.35oz/10g)

Comes in a tube, easy to pop in your purse/pocket

Available in Berry, Grapefruit, Pear, Peach
I have the Berry Sleeping Mask and the Grapefruit Glowy Balm. So, I can’t say if the berry and grapefruit scents smell exactly the same. Before I got the Glowy Balm, I had worn the Sleeping Mask in the daytime. Looking at the specs, the Sleeping Mask is twice the size for only $6 more, but it’s too bulky to throw in your purse. After every use, I like to wipe down the spatula that came with the Sleeping Mask. The Glowy Balm is easy to apply straight from the tube.

I’ve found that the Sleeping Mask doesn’t taste like anything (when I’ve licked my lips), but the Glowy Balm DOES taste like grapefruit. Since I don’t have the same flavour in both lip products, I can’t say if all glowy balms have a taste or all grapefruit ones have a taste. At some point, I might have to buy the Berry flavour in the Glowy Balm to see.

WINNER: Lip Sleeping Mask

I think I prefer the Lip Sleeping Mask over the Glowy Balm. I also prefer the Original Berry flavour over the Grapefruit. I can use the Sleeping Mask during the day or night, but I personally don’t want to use the Glowy Balm at night because it’s tinted and I don’t want it getting on my pillowcases or duvet cover. Also, the Sleeping Mask is more cost effective. It may not be as travel-friendly, but I have other lip products that I can throw in my purse.

Which Laneige lip product do you prefer?
Love,

Read More
This or That | Almay Make Them Jelly Hi-Lite vs. NYX A Bit Jelly Gel Illuminator

July 5, 2019

Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m comparing two different jelly highlighters. These were both gifted to me and I thought I would do a review comparing the two. Jelly highlighters are interesting, but they’re not great for every day use since the shimmer is a bit chunky (for my liking). I would say this jelly is good for a festival/unicorn/halloween look. Keep reading to find out which one I prefer!
Almay Make Them Jelly Hi-Lite in 24K Dreams

This gorgeous jelly highlighter with an addictively bouncy texture gives your skin a dewy, holographic glow that’s utterly irresistible.

There are 2 shades available.
from left: 24K Dreams 004, Unicorn Light 003
Both of these highlighters are fun shades – yellow gold and pink. Although once you apply it, it’s not as pink as it looks in the tub. It’s like a sheer, jelly glitter. I’m not a huge fan of this one because when I press my finger into it, the jelly breaks up and crumbles (for lack of a better word). I’ve noticed that the gold one has a firmer texture whereas the pink one tends to crumble more.

NYX A Bit Jelly Gel Illuminator in Luminous

Dip right into our new A Bit Jelly Gel Illuminator. Available in three shades swimming in sparkles, this jelly-like formula feels and looks seriously amazing. Just scoop some up with your finger and pat the water-based gel onto the face or body. It slips on like a dream as you smooth it onto the skin, leaving behind a lightweight wash of radiance—that glistens even after it dries down! Gettin’ a bit jelly right now? Same, this dewy glow is lit.

There are 3 shades available
From top: Opalescent, Bronze, Luminous
I have the shade Luminous and it’s a champagne shade with blue glitter. This highlighter is a water-based product which washes away easily with water (which makes me think it might just melt down your face if you sweat). I would suggest spraying any setting spray before applying this highlighter. The texture of it is nice – when I dip my finger into it, it doesn’t separate or become chunky. It’s almost like a putty because it moves with my finger which is a good thing because then you don’t get any jelly chunks on your face when you apply it.
Luminous (top), 24K Dreams, Unicorn Light
WINNER: NYX A Bit Jelly Gel Illuminator

I think between these two jelly highlighters, I prefer the NYX A Bit Jelly Gel Illuminator. Both highlighters jiggle when you tap the containers. You can feel the jelly bounce back. I think jelly highlighters are fun, but I don’t think I would purchase any myself. I would consider trying jelly eyeshadows because I’ve seen a few on Instagram and they’re so pigmented. Obviously jelly highlighters wouldn’t be pigmented because you’d have a coloured streak on your face, but it feels like I’m just putting wet glitter on my face. I’m also not a fan of glittery highlighters and would prefer a liquid highlighter.

Have you tried jelly products?
Love,

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

January 14, 2019

Hi Everyone!

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

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

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

Lash Blast Volume Mascara | Lash Sensational Mascara
CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume Mascara

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

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

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

Have you tried these two mascaras?

Love,

Read More
This Or That | elf Lip Exfoliator vs. Milani Keep It Sweet Sugar Scrub

August 20, 2018

Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m comparing Lip Scrubs: elf vs. Milani. I received the elf lip exfoliator from Topbox Circle and I purchased the Milani scrub in a haul last year. Both have sugar granules that help to exfoliate. The elf one is packaged like a bullet lipstick and the Milani one comes in a jar.
elf Lip Exfoliator in Mint Maniac

Gently exfoliate lips to remove dry, chapped skin with our Lip Exfoliator! A sweet sugar and smoothing sensation, infused with Vitamin E, Shea Butter, Avocado, Grape and Jojoba Oils to nourish and protect. This Lip Exfoliator treats and smoothes lips for a conditioned and revitalized feel.

This exfoliator comes in different ‘flavours,’ I received Mint Maniac, but they also have Brown Sugar, Sweet Cherry, Coconut, Pink Grapefruit and Rose. I think I would’ve chosen the mint one anyway. I might’ve considered brown sugar, but to be honest, it looks kind of gross since it has specks of the brown sugar.

Since the instructions say to use on moist lips, I prefer to use my finger to get some of the scrub and then use my finger to exfoliate instead using the tube. I think using my finger is a little more hygienic especially because my lips are a wet. After exfoliating, I can feel the slight tingle from the mint.
Milani Keep It Sweet Sugar Lip Scrub
Smoothes and exfoliates lips for an instant polished and revitalized look. Natural sugar granules soften skin with a kiss of sweetness, leaving lips feeling nourished and prepped for color. Use 2-3 times per week and follow with Keep It Smooth Luxe Lip Treatment for the ultimate lip luxury experience.
Since this scrub comes in a pot, it’s a bit chunkier and the consistency is like a body sugar scrub. It has a sweet scent that’s not too overpowering.
WINNER: elf Lip Exfoliator
For the Milani scrub, my fingers feel greasy after using it- I guess it’s to help moisturize the lips after, but I don’t like the feeling. Personally, I think I prefer the elf one because of the way it’s packaged. Also, I felt like the elf one did a better job at sloughing off the dry skin and it feels gentler (the Milani lip scrub is more chunky and messier).
What’s your fave lip scrub?
Love,

Read More
This or That | COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches vs. Nexcare Acne Absorbing Covers

August 8, 2018
Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m comparing Acne patches! COSRX vs. Nexcare! I love the COSRX patches (read my review) and I thought that I should try another brand to see if they all perform the same. So, keep reading if you want to find out which one I like better!

Don’t worry! No gross pictures showing used pimple patches. You’ll just have to trust me on the fact that they both work! 😉

COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches

The thin clear hydrocolloid patch feels similar to a hydrogel sheet mask in texture, adhering your skin strongly. It’ll stay on through showering and washing! It treats breakouts by eliminating infection and bacteria, which is what causes them in the first place. It’s able to breakdown debris from blackheads and absorb gunk from whiteheads overnight, so you won’t experience a harsh dry patch from using this. It even helps flatten and heal cystic acne faster!

24 patches per pack (3 sizes):
- 10 x 7mm
- 5 x 10mm
- 9 x 12mm
Nexcare Acne Absorbing Covers (2 sizes)

Works like a sponge to absorb pus and oil

Visibly indicates that it is working

Acts as a protective cover, reducing the urge to squeeze

Drug-free, non-drying

36 patches per pack:
- 24 x 8mm
- 12 x 12mm
72 patches per pack:
- 48 x 8mm
- 24 x 12mm
COSRX (left), Nexcare (right)

The Nexcare patches have a kind of plastic bandaid-y smell and they are also a bit tacky on top of the patch too. The COSRX ones have no smell and are not sticky on top. Both patches are the same thickness (from what I can see) and I think the Nexcare ones are slightly more yellow. When I have them on, you can see that I’m wearing it, but when I have the COSRX ones, you need to get closer to see that I’m wearing a patch.

I like that the Nexcare covers are packaged on a clear sheet so it’s easier to see how many you have left. I also like that they are sandwiched between two clear sheets. They are stuck to one and the other is to cover them. For the COSRX patches, they are packaged on a white sheet, so it’s harder to see them sometimes.

For both patches, it says you can wear them under makeup. Since they are thicker though, the makeup would collect around the patches and emphasized the patch more. You have to make sure to carefully blend out around it if you want to wear makeup on top. I choose not to wear patches when I wear makeup. I tend not to wear pimple patches outdoors unless it’s in a spot that’s hard to see.

WINNER: COSRX Acne Pimple Master Patches

I used the acne patches overnight and the Nexcare ones came off in my hair two times. The COSRX ones are also cheaper (even when you get less per package) for Canadians if you’re buying online. The Nexcare ones were about $10-12 while the COSRX ones are $4.50 on chuusi.ca and if you bought two, you’d get more patches.

The COSRX ones have 3 sizes whereas the Nexcare patches have 2 sizes. I usually have larger blemishes so the small COSRX patches are often leftover until I have a small enough pimple to use it. They also have more of the small size in a pack unfortunately.

I’ve compared the COSRX patches with Rael Miracle Patches (read it here).

I’ve also written a This or That comparing a few different brands (read it here).

Have you tried acne patches? What’s your fave brand?

Love,
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This or That | Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick vs. Maybelline Fit Me Shine-Free + Balance Stick Foundation

February 4, 2018

Hi Everyone!

Today, I’m comparing two stick foundations: Bobbi Brown’s Skin Foundation Stick and Maybelline’s Fit Me Shine-Free + Balance Stick Foundation. The Maybelline is obviously a lot cheaper than the Bobbi Brown and normally I would consider it a dupe, but the Bobbi Brown claims to have a natural, skin-like finish while the Maybelline stick has a natural matte finish and an anti-shine powder core that helps to mattify. For this reason, I am doing a This or That comparison instead of considering Maybelline’s stick a dupe for the Bobbi Brown one.

Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick in Ivory 0.75 – I got this at the MAC warehouse sale in September. They didn’t have a lot of shades left, I swatched it in the warehouse and it looked pretty close, turns out I was wrong. It is way too light and I need to go up a few shades.

Update: They’ve changed the corresponding numbers of the shades. I don’t know if they’ve reformulated, but I’m assuming Ivory is still the same shade. The corresponding number has changed from 0.75 to C-024.

Designed to look and feel like skin, this award-winning foundation is formulated with a unique transparent base and skin tone correct pigments for the most natural-looking, skin-like finish. A Bobbi Brown original, the innovative formula features Smart Technology for targeted moisturization or oil control depending on what skin needs. Delivers medium to full coverage and comes in a convenient swivel-up stick for at home and on-the-go application.

Maybelline Fit Me Shine-Free + Balance Stick Foundation in 130 Buff Beige – I had the liquid Fit Me foundation in 130 Buff Beige, so I decided to get the stick in the same shade. Even though the liquid is a bit too dark/pink for me, there is a smaller shade selection in the stick foundations.

This lightweight gel foundation has an exclusive anti-shine powder core that instantly dissolves excess oil. Pores look minimized and skin stays shine-free for ten hours. This oil-absorbing foundation stick goes on creamy and blends into a natural matte finish. Medium coverage. Dermatologist tested. Allergy tested. Non-comedogenic. Suitable for sensitive skin. Fragrance-free.

I used my Make Up For Ever Step 1 Hydrating Primer and I didn’t apply any powder to test the wearability. Both of the sticks set to a velvety smooth finish. If you get an oily t-zone, I suggest powdering because both foundations started to break up on my forehead and chin, and my nose was super shiny by the second hour.

Both foundations are buttery and easily glide on your skin. The Bobbi Brown covered up more of the redness around my nose, but still gave a natural, skin-looking finish. The Maybelline stick didn’t cover up as much redness and I could still see blemishes coming through, but a good concealer can easily fix that.

WINNER (Higher Coverage, Natural Finish): Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick

WINNER (More Budget-Friendly, Natural Matte Finish): Maybelline Fit Me Shine-Free Balance Stick Foundation

The Bobbi Brown stick has a more natural finish, yet offers more coverage than the Maybelline stick. The Bobbi Brown stick is also more buildable which makes sense because it claims to offer medium-full coverage while the Maybelline stick says medium coverage. The Maybelline stick evened out my skin tone, but didn’t cover up dark spots from blemishes.

I think the Maybelline is a good everyday foundation for those who just want a natural matte finish and you can pair it with a good concealer (Maybelline’s Fit Me Concealer is a great drugstore option if you can find a match for your skin tone). I think it would also be good for summer because it looks natural, but mattifies at the same time. Since the Bobbi Brown stick is more expensive, I would save it for evenings (dinners or special occasions) because it did give a very beautiful finish.

Have you tried stick foundations? What are your fave brands?

Love,

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This or That | Make Up For Ever Artisan Brush 106S vs. Arbonne Liquid Foundation Brush vs. Sephora Liquid Foundation Brush

January 2, 2018
Hi Everyone!

Today I’m doing a 3-way This or That because I had three different brands of foundation brushes. Each of the brushes I bought as part of a set:
- Sephora- to be honest, I can’t remember what this brush came with and it’s not in my order history. I think it was a travel brush kit. This brush from the PRO collection looks the most similar out of the brushes they currently offer.
- Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Foundation + Smoothing Skin Equalizer Customizable Set | $83 CAD
  - Step 1 Skin Equalizer smoothing primer
  - Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation (your choice)
  - Artisan Brush 106S (the brush is a short version of the 106)
- Arbonne Cosmetics Brush Set #7098 (6-piece brush set) | $47 CAD
The only reason I have a MUFE foundation brush is because it came in the set. I prefer applying my liquid foundation with sponges, so I probably wouldn’t buy a liquid foundation brush on its own.

Sephora liquid foundation brush

I do have another Sephora foundation brush, but it’s a little worse for wear. It is softer than this travel-sized brush, but performs about the same.

Arbonne

100% vegan and cruelty-free

Liquid Foundation / Flat Brush: Great for liquid foundations
and concealer for proper blending; features a rounded head to match the natural contours of the face such as the corners under the eyes.

Make Up For Ever Artisan Brush

This is a larger variation of a foundation brush for applying and blending ultra fast for an even result with fuller coverage. It can be used with all types of foundations and features straight fibers.

I used the Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Invisible Foundation for the swatches (the swatches are aligned with the picture of the brushes- top swatch is Sephora, middle is Arbonne and bottom is MUFE). I pumped once directly onto the brush just to see how much product it absorbed. The swatches are after two swipes of the brush. As you can see, the Sephora swatch on the top is shiny which means the foundation was still wet. When I did the second swipe, I did my best to go directly on top of the previous swatches. The Sephora brush fanned out a bit when it touched my skin. The Arbonne brush is denser/thicker (the other two are flatter). The Make Up For Ever brush is the widest and the swatch above shows that. The Sephora brush’s bristles aren’t as soft as the other two. Out of the three, the MUFE one is the softest, but it absorbs the most product.

I wanted to do swatches on a flat surface that wouldn’t absorb product, so I used a foundation palette. I pumped three equal-sized dots of Maybelline’s Fit Me Dewy + Smooth Foundation and I swiped the brushes twice to see how much product absorbs into the brush. Again, the swatches are in the same order: Sephora (top), Arbonne and MUFE. The Sephora one is the darkest and MUFE is the lightest swatch because the Sephora brush barely absorbs any foundation and the MUFE one absorbs the most. The Sephora brush has the stiffest bristles which reminds me of a paintbrush. The Arbonne brush is okay, but it’s not as wide as the other two, but it’s denser which means a lot of product gets lost in the brush. The MUFE brush is wide and flat and the bristles are soft. That’s why I have to give the win to the MUFE brush.

WINNER: Make Up For Ever Artisan Brush

Do you prefer sponges or brushes to apply liquid foundation? What’s your favourite brand for brushes/sponges?

Love,
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This or That | Maybelline Master Precise Curvy Liquid Liner vs. Milani Eye Tech Perfection Liquid Liner

October 3, 2017

Hi Everyone!

I can’t believe it’s already October and Canadian Thanksgiving is this weekend, where has the year gone? It feels like just yesterday everyone was getting read to go back to school, and now it’s almost midterm time for students. Let’s get started on my first post of this series.

Today, I’m comparing two drugstore liquid liners: Maybelline vs. Milani Cosmetics. Both liners are innovative, easy to use pens for easy grip.

Let me start off by saying that I’m terrible at doing winged liner, especially getting the wings even. Anything that’s geared towards helping me get that perfect wing, I’m open to trying. I’ve tried gel liners, but my favourite liners are pencils. I use kohl liners to tightline, so I’ve only bought a handful of liquid liners.

To compare the two, the Master Precise liner is a lot thicker and the liner itself isn’t as dark. It’s a great liner if you’re going for a thicker, Amy Winehouse look. The Eye Tech liner gives a thinner, sharper wing; the tip is rigid enough that I can get a good flick.

Maybelline Master Precise Curvy Liquid Liner

Master Precise Curvy liquid eyeliner with an innovative grip and patent pending curve hugging tip. Now, you control the curve! This liquid eyeliner features an easy grip pen to provide the ultimate control in application. Maybelline’s patent pending tip, hugs lids for a seamless curvy line.

Milani Cosmetics Eye Tech Perfection Liquid Liner

If you’ve ever struggled with liquid eyeliner before—ever had it skip or smear—the mistake-proof Eye Tech Perfection Liquid Liner is for you. The high tech, felt-tip tool makes a liquid lined eye a breeze. The non-feathering, water-resistant formula comes in the richest, deepest black available. Use this liquid liner for a long-wearing, intense eye look that’s professionally precise.

WINNER: Milani Cosmetics Eye Tech Perfection Liquid Liner

At some point, I’ll have to test a regular Maybelline liquid liner pen and some other drug store brands to see how the felt tips are, but between these two, I award the win to the Eye Tech Perfection Liquid Liner.

What are your fave liquid liners?

Love,

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