Want to read more wonderful beauty posts? Check out this week's edition of the Beauty Blog Coalition Roundup!
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Beauty Blog Coalition Roundup - November 8, 2013
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Review: Reviva Labs Gentle, Soothing Cleansing Gel
With the weather getting colder and a greater tendency for skin feel dry and tight, we need to retain as much natural moisture as we can. One of the products I've been regularly using is Reviva Labs' Gentle, Soothing Cleansing Gel.
This is a product that's great for anyone with sensitive or dehydrated skin because it manages to keep enough moisture in while thoroughly cleansing. As the name states, it's a gel product which feels light on the skin due to its watery/runny nature. I take a moderate amount (about the size of a quarter) and gently rub it in a circular motion using the palm of my hands. I do that for approximately a minute. Although it does not produce any lather, I can feel the dirt coming out using this method. It leaves my skin feeling soft and fresh - no tightness whatsoever.
Some say it has a light, citrusy scent but I think it smells more like watermelon juice. Either way, I love the refreshing, yummy scent this cleanser has. I also like that the ingredients aren't overwhelming, unlike most cleansers.
I usually use this in the morning and sometimes at night when I stay at home all day without any makeup on. On days when I wear makeup, I still use a makeup remover or cleansing oil before I wash my face with this.
It is worth purchasing? Most definitely! If you have issues with skin that's too dry and tight, you will love how this lives up to its name - gentle & soothing.
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Review: Etude House Rosy Tint Lips
Part of Etude House's &Rose Collection are these Rosy Tint Lips. The name suggests a sheer product but its far from that. These babies are actually lip cremes that are packed with pigment!
I think the reason they're packaged as "tints" is you can achieve a gradient effect using the felt (or sponge?) tip applicator, as illustrated here. The thing is, and this is the only downside to this product, the tube is incredibly difficult to squeeze. To make life easier, I just twist the applicator off the tube and squeeze the product out. Pretty soon I may have to cut this open and put it in a pot.
Let's talk about the good stuff now. With the help of a lip brush, these apply evenly and glide smoothly. The feel on the lips is a bit more velvety than Guerlain Rouge G L'Extrait. Although its not hydrating, it does not dry out the lips either. Its actually very comfortable to wear, more than what I expected. As with products of this nature, you'll need to exfoliate and condition your lips prior to application because this can accentuate any flaky skin you may have.
The product has a light rose scent (reminiscent of Chanel) which dissipates after a while. Wear time is good - it stays on even after having a cup of tea and I only need to reapply after meals.
I mentioned that the colors are pretty intense, right? Check out the swatches below.
Here are the names of each color, for reference:
1 - Before Blossom
2 - Sunny Flower
3 - Rose Petal
4 - Sweet Poison
5 - Baby Peony
6 - English Garden
7 - Tea Rose
8 - After Blossom
The swatches below are shown in the same order.
Verdict: I love these! Korean brands are usually known for lip stains or mostly sheer lip products. This is a nice change and the quality is great.
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Beauty Blog Coalition Round-up - December 6, 2013
Just in case you missed these interesting beauty posts ;)
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Review: Lunasol Party Coffret 2013
Every year, during the holidays, Lunasol releases a party coffret which features perfectly matched products that you will surely love. It also includes a beautiful little bag.
I was a fan of last year's coffret and this year is no different.
Here's the bag - it includes a multi-texture pouch that's well constructed with good materials. An instant makeup bag upgrade! Although its too pretty to be kept out of sight that you can probably use this going out, assuming you won't be carrying a lot.
On to the products...
The swatch above is from the eyeshadow palette which features five well-coordinated shades. This warm-toned palette features four metallic/shimmery colors in the brown, bronze and gold range. It also has one matte cream color (with a light gold overspray) - something very unusual for Lunasol since they are known for their high-shimmer eyeshadow.
Looking at Lunasol's palettes (any palette they have) one might be intimidated or put-off by the amount of shimmer. It's deceiving because once applied with a brush, you will find these to be extremely wearable, even during daytime. The shimmer serves to brighten the eyes and is more subtle than it looks. The pigments are somewhat sheer but can be built up to something darker, bolder. The texture is soft and blendable.
The swatches above are for the other products included in the set. First, we have an espresso colored eyeliner which glides on smoothly and once it sets, it stays put. Really nice!
Next, its the Full Glamour Lips in EX03 which is a milky pink lip gloss with micro-glitter. I love using this on top of nude lipstick to make my lips look supple. The formula is perfect in that it's not sticky nor is it runny. I get an average of 3 hours wear from this.
Finally, we have a blush palette with a peach pink and a baby pink shade. I use the former as my main blush and the latter to highlight my cheekbones.
I am blown away by the quality of each item in this palette and I think this is the perfect product if you want to try Lunasol for the first time. It also makes for an excellent holiday gift and anyone who receives it will love it!
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Review: L'Occitane Immortelle Lotion Divine & Extrait Divin
The Immortelle skincare range was inspired by the flower of the same name, known for its ability to never fade even after being picked. L'Occitane uses essential oils derived from Corsican Immortelle flowers for this anti-aging line.
A few months ago, I was sent two items from the range to try out. Unfortunately, I was not able to use it immediately because of a stress-induced rosacea flare-up that I had to address first. But once that was done, I started my Immortelle experience.
Applying lotion is an additional skincare step that I feel is extremely important. It has a made a huge difference for me and my skin feels better whenever I apply lotion as compared to times when I don't. It is applied after cleansing and before any other treatment. What it does is soften the skin and prepare it for other skincare products. By doing so, it raises the efficacy of your serum, moisturizer and spot treatment by allowing it to be better absorbed by your skin.
Lotion Divine does just that and the way I would use it is to take a quarter-sized amount and gently massage this on my cheeks, forehead and chin. Anything left on my hands, I pat on my neck. Applying this with my hands feels much more effective compared to using a cotton round. With its light, runny, gel-like texture, it gets absorbed by your skin real fast.
It has a strong floral scent that, admittedly, I was not a fan of when I started using it. I got used to it over time and now barely recognize the scent. If you have sensitive skin, expect that this will tingle the first few weeks of use or you may want to explore other similar, gentler products. But for those without any sensitivity, this is good to use day and night.
Extrait Divin is a serum which, of all the products from this line, contains the highest centration of essential oil. Its meant to provide a plumping effect on the skin and within seconds upon application, I literally felt my skin transform, becoming more supple and firm.
The floral scent is still present but to a lesser degree compared to Lotion Divine. It has a gel-like texture that's slightly thicker. It still gets absorbed quickly and the effect is felt almost immediate. Each pump will dispense a pea-sized amount. I usually need two pumps to cover my entire face and neck.
I find this to be a good serum which works with any skin type.
Have you tried this or any L'Occitane skincare products? What did you think of it?
*Press sample was provided for editorial consideration.
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Review: Chanel Illusion D'Ombre in Initiation & Fatal
Ah... another set of my favorite among Chanel's products!
We've seen a lot of burgundy pop up and its about time Chanel incorporated the trend into their Illusion D'Ombre line via Fatal. To complement this color, they also released Initiation which is bronze. Both metallic shades are perfect for the season, yes?
Illusion D'Ombre isn't consistent when it comes to texture and finish. Some product fall out (Mirifique), others tend to be flaky (Vision). The better ones are smooth which makes it easy to blend and apply evenly (Apparition). Fortunately for us , Initiation and Fatal belong to the last category.
What you need to keep in mind: application is key in pulling off any shade in this range. I found that these best apply either by using the brush included with this product and then smudging it with your finger or taking some with your ring finger and just dabbing it on top of your eyeshadow. Your method of application would depend on your preferred intensity. Either way, wear time for these are excellent as they last all day without smudging. Fading is only noticeable beyond 8 hours... even without a primer.
Below are swatches in comparison to other Illusion D'Ombre colors. From left to right: Convoitise, Vision, Initiation, Fatal, Ebloui,Illusoire.
The question is, are these worth picking up? I believe so. I've been reaching out for these most since November among all my holiday purchases. The colors are extremely wearable and I don't see either of them going out of fashion anytime soon since either will work as a great accent color to the Pantone Color of 2014.
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2014 Beauty Resolutions + My Visit to the Sulwhasoo Spa in Hong Kong
This will be my first time to make beauty resolutions because change is truly needed. In order to keep it realistic, I've only decided to go with two of the most important ones.
First, I will focus more on my skincare regimen. I tell myself that this is important and then forget about it mid-year. The thing is, my rosacea was at its worst last year plus I plagued with other skin concerns. I need to pay more attention to this, more than makeup.
Second, I need to drastically cut my beauty budget. Aside from the dent in my pocketbook, I have run out of storage space and half of the products I purchased have not been used. I went overboard in 2013, to say the least. I may have to move some of these unused makeup to my professional kit. This also means that I will focus blogging about products that I already have. Instead of running to the mall the minute a new collection arrives, I will exercise will power. There are some items from NARS that I am dying to get and it's pure torture trying to control myself... thankfully, I heard that these are going to be part of the permanent line. The only two LE items I will allow myself to splurge on - Chanel Illusion D'Ombre and Laura Mercier Caviar Sticks since I have been collecting these from the start.
I spent the latter part of my holiday in Hong Kong. When I usually travel there, I go nuts shopping for cosmetics that are hard to find (Japanese and Korean brands) or cost more elsewhere. This year, I told myself I would only get the Cle de Peau Concealer that I have been longing to own and the Chanel Illusion D'Ombre in Apparence which I missed out on and could not find (scored one at the duty free).
The rest of the beauty budget was spent at the Sulwhasoo Spa. Getting a facial there is something I've been wanting for a few years now. I can't even find the words to express how pleased I am to finally experience it!
When I arrived, I was asked to stay in the waiting area and after a few minutes was lead to the locker room. They provided me with all sorts of disposables - slippers, a hair brush, underwear and skincare samples. Inside were dressing rooms, showers and vanity tables. Although these facilities are typical of any spa, the design of Sulwhasoo Spa is smart, sophisticated and luxurious.
I did not take any photos out of respect for other clients and I also did not want it to get in the way of my treatment.
Since I had a lot of redness, they recommended a sensitive skin facial. This also included a warm ginseng foot bath and a massage (legs, arms and shoulders). The treatment room was air-conditioned but I was on a heated bed. I can't remember any other time I was THAT relaxed. I felt like I was in heaven!
After I was done and had changed back to my clothes, I found a tray with tea, cookies and an envelope with my name on it. Inside the envelope was a thoughtful note from my therapist and a separate card with recommended products.
Although I was tempted to buy a few items, I kept in mind that I already had some similar ones back home. So the only thing I bought was the First Care Activating Serum since I had nothing like it.
The visit to Sulwhasoo Spa was just what I needed to kick-start my path to better skincare. I'm so glad I did it.
So.... here's to a better year for all of us. I wish you all the best in 2014! What are you beauty resolutions?
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Beauty Diary: Hair Color (Mis)Adventure
It all started with having a chunk of my hair colored purple. I love how doing something unexpected and different made me feel. It was liberating.
Purple faded to pink then lilac. Next, I opted for blue streaks and that faded to lilac. Months pass and I had another chunk dyed bright purple and yellow... again, it faded to beautiful pastel hues. Check it out on instagram, if you're so inclined.
Eventually, I got tired of purple and wanted to try something different. I asked my sort-of-new colorist to give me charcoal colored locks... not just on one area, but my entire head. The picture above was how it looked as soon as I got home from the salon. I loved it!
To my horror, it washed away and became ash blonde. In less than two weeks. The reason I'm disappointed is I took extra steps in making sure it would last. I waited 4 days before I washed my hair - that's torture for me since I'm used to shampooing everyday. Then, I'd wash every other day with cold water, using the shampoo my colorist provided. Sulfate-free, yada yada.
I'm going to wait a few more weeks, just so my scalp can recover. In the meantime, I'm on a hunt for charcoal hair dye that I can DIY. Any recommendations?
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Steamcream
I'm going to come clean: I bought these tins of Steamcream (a year ago, I believe) because of the packaging. Crazy cat lady, yo!
Although I've read both positive and negative reviews online, my experience with Steamcream is 98% positive. The lavender scent is relaxing, not overpowering and it dissipates into something more faint within minutes. It was a great addition to my bedtime ritual.
It's feels just like other cream products but gets absorbed into the skin in less time. Absorption time is comparable to that of an emulsion or light moisturizer.
I found this to be very gentle on my facial skin and worked nicely in calming my skin when it was feeling extra sensitive and irritated. This also helped get rid of stress-induced eczema that appeared on my arm a few months back.
The 2% negative is that it comes in a tub, which isn't the ideal packaging for cream products. It's not a big deal because I use a sterilized metal spatula to scoop out product each time.
If I find another cat-themed tin in the future, it's definitely coming home with me.
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Edward Bess Back to Basics Palette
Today, I leave for my college friend's destination wedding. One thing I always bring with me when I travel is the Edward Bess Back to Basics Palette. I love that I don't need to overthink my beauty routine because this is a well-edited collection of neutrals. It's foolproof, really.
The palette is packaged in a simple, sturdy plastic case which is slim enough to slip into a purse or clutch.
Back to Basics consists of a lip and cheek stain, allover highlighter, four eyeshadows and two lip glosses. While I am not a fan of cream and powder products sharing the same package, I like this so much that I make it a point to clean the sides with an alcohol-soaked cotton bud to prevent the products from mixing.
The palette is packaged in a simple, sturdy plastic case which is slim enough to slip into a purse or clutch.
Back to Basics consists of a lip and cheek stain, allover highlighter, four eyeshadows and two lip glosses. While I am not a fan of cream and powder products sharing the same package, I like this so much that I make it a point to clean the sides with an alcohol-soaked cotton bud to prevent the products from mixing.
The cheek and lip stain is a creamy, mauve color. My inital impression was that it was too dark to use as a blush but when blended out, it looks nice and natural - nothing over the top. I find that this is best applied with a stippling brush.
At the beginning, I hated the allover highlighter because I couldn't use it with a brush. I later realized that it works best using warm fingers. You need to understand that when you pick up the product, it feels rough and dry. But once you begin to apply it on the high points of your cheek, it goes on smoothly and you only need just a little. It goes well with the blush and gives off a beautiful glowy effect.
Two lip glosses included here are sheer and keep lips moist and comfortable for hours. If you want color, always pair it with a lipstick otherwise, you will end up with shiny but natural-colored lips.
Two lip glosses included here are sheer and keep lips moist and comfortable for hours. If you want color, always pair it with a lipstick otherwise, you will end up with shiny but natural-colored lips.
There are four complimentary shades of eyeshadow. All have a satiny finish with the lightest one having a subtle shimmer. Using a fluffy brush to pick it up, its a tad powdery but it applies smoothly and blends well.
Note that all products have the signature Edward Bess fig scent.
I usually am not fond of brushes that come with palettes but the dual-ended brush included here is totally useable. The flat end I use for the cream products and the fluffy one for applying and blending eyeshadow. The quality is good and I sometimes find myself reaching out for this along with my everyday brushes.
The overall result that this palette provides is a clean, natural but well put-together look. The only thing you need is some concealer, powder and mascara.
The overall result that this palette provides is a clean, natural but well put-together look. The only thing you need is some concealer, powder and mascara.
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Beauty Blog Coalition Roundup - February 28, 2014
Make sure you're up to date with these beauty blog entries from last week!
My Newest Addiction Beauty Blogy: Laura swatches, reviews and compares the Urban Decay Naked 3 palette to previous Naked palettes
TheFabZilla: Are you up for bright pink, as in really bright bold pink lippies? See TheFabZilla's review and swatches of Cargo Cosmetics Essential Lip Color in Punta Cana and Kyoto
Lola's Secret Beauty Blog: Radical Skincare Anti-Aging Replenishing Extreme Moisture is the perfect antioxidant anti-aging cream for everyone including those with super sensitive Rosacea prone skin!
D.G.S.Beauty: Majestical Jewelry has beautiful pieces at affordable prices! See what beautiful earrings I got.
My Highest Self: Come see why LUSH Prince Charming Shower Gel drives Tina wild!
Painted Ladies: Wet n Wild's new Eyeshadow Brush for Spring 2014is a MAC 239 dupe!
Spontaneous Chick: Check out some homemade lemon body scrubs on Spontaneous Chick and find out why lemons are beneficial to your skin.
Glamorable!: What makeup does your Mom use? Anastasia is sharing her Mom's favorites.
Slashed Beauty: Have you been able to find the Limited Edition "Dare to Go Nude" Color Tattoos from Maybelline? Miranda did, and she picked up two gorgeous shades!
Never Say Die Beauty: a hydrating body bar that brings me back to summer
Stepford Witch: Take a look at my favorite travel makeup palette. It's so well-edited - it's perfect if you're constantly on the go or want a clean, well put-together everyday look!
BeautyTidbits: Looking for an effective yet gentle exfoliating treatment that unclogs pores and instantly adds radiance back to dull, lacklustre skin? Radical Skincare Age-Defying Exfoliating Pads might just be your new favorite skincare find!
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Etude House Eraser Show Mascara Cleaner Review
Etude House's Mascara Cleaner seems like an innovative idea since some types of mascara can be difficult to remove. I can see how this product makes sense for those who don't need to put on a full face of makeup. Just a touch of mascara and lipstick will do.
The wand applicator has ridges which hold the product and helps distribute it evenly on your lashes. You apply it directly to your lashes the same way you would mascara and then let it sit for a minute. Finally, take two cotton rounds/pads and swipe downward. Make sure to sanitize the wand before putting it back in the tube.
An additional benefit this product claims to have is that it keeps our lashes healthy because it contains Argan Kernel Oil and Jojoba Seed Oil.
Although it seems like a novel idea, I have a lot of issues with this product. The most important one is that I find it harsh. Considering that this should be applied to my lashes and the oils will naturally travel into my eye, it should have a gentle formula. Instead, it stung real bad. You all know that's a pretty horrible feeling.
Second, there are plenty of other products out there that does the same job: Bioderma Micellar Water, NARS Gentle Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover and Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil. Not only do these products remove mascara just as well, they also remove any other makeup you have on. The Mascara Cleaner is just an added step when it comes to cleansing and I find it unnecessary.
Etude House still remains to be one of my favorite Korean beauty brands but this is one product I will never repurchase. I'd rather spend on other great products they have, like the Proof 10 Eye Primer.
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Beauty Diary: June & July 2014 Empties
Hi everyone! I'm here to share with you some skincare items I've used up recently and quick thoughts on each.
All these products were good although there are some that I would probably not repurchase just because there are other alternatives in the market. Others impressed me that I am on my second or third bottle already!
1. DS Laboratories Hydroviton CR: This is a facial cleanser which promises to renew your skin faster than other cleansing & exfoliating products. Full review to follow.
2. NARS Makeup Removing Water: It works pretty much like the Bioderma micellar water except it takes up less space on my vanity table. I got this as a GWP. Its a good product but you can find similar ones from other brands at a more affordable price.
3. NARS Gentle Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover: I love this! It's very gentle on the eyes and easily removes smudge/waterproof mascara and eyeliner. I got this as a GWP. I was also given a few sample-sized bottles which I keep in my professional kit. I've also passed on a few of these bottles to clients.
4. Dermalogica Ultracalming Mist: For those with sensitive or sensitized skin, this mist is meant to reduce redness and discomfort. This was my second bottle but I probably will not repurchase this unless my skin becomes super sensitive again. I've switched to Dickinson's Witch Hazel to address my acne concerns.
5. A'pieu Real Recipe Scrub Mask in Banana & Oatmeal: A facial scrub that leaves skin looking smooth and feeling soft. I used this around once a week. Read the full review here.
6. Laneige Water Sleeping Pack EX: I received this as a GWP that's why the tub is tiny. I loved this so much that I ended up buying the full-sized version. Full review to follow.
7. Tony Moly Shiny Foot Moisture Balm: This product rocks my world because it keeps my feet soft and moist. I ended up getting pedicures less frequently. This was my third stick.
8. Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum: A booster which is applied after cleansing and before (yes, before) toner. It's meant to increase the efficacy of your other skincare products. Full review to follow.
9. Laneige White Plus Renew Original Essence: I bought this because I started having severe acne again since the beginning of the year and the scars just made me want to hide. This product was my savior and it did so much more than what I expected. Full review to follow.
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Review: Online Shoe Shopping with She Likes Shoes
What's going on?! Lily likes to inspect anything I get in the mail or bring home from the mall. She must give her seal of approval and I am too scared to displease her. Cat lady problems.
Okay... so this is what's really going on...
A friend of mine posted the cutest pair of boat shoes (it was lilac and white) on Instagram. I later found out she got it from a monthly shoe subscription service based in the Philippines. Not wanting to miss out on the fun, I jumped at the opportunity and subscribed to She Likes Shoes.
Shoe shopping is a somewhat complex task for me because:
1. I love cute and stylish shoes BUT
2. I haven't been able to wear heels for an entire day since 6 years ago. In more youthful days, I could wear 5 inch heels to work then hit the mall for some shopping and still go out with friends after. These days, an hour in heels is pure torture. Even Aerosoles are painful, not to mention frumpy.
3. I like to try before I buy. And that's sort of basic when it comes to shoe shopping, no?
I was hesitant with my choices from She Likes Shoes but what the heck - it was so affordable and I really loved the two designs I picked.
I have a weakness for snakeskin heels. I remember having a red pair that I wore to death until it, well, died. I was immediately drawn to this pair of navy pumps called Urania.
Now knowing what to expect, I decided to use this on movie night as it involved minimal walking. There was a bit of adjustment because it was the first time I wore this pair, aside from the fact that I haven't worn heels in ages. Wanting to push the envelope, I wore it for 3 more consecutive days. And it is truly comfortable!
I like that the shoe is chic and versatile. I've been able to use it to dressy dinners and casual afternoons out.
Now knowing what to expect, I decided to use this on movie night as it involved minimal walking. There was a bit of adjustment because it was the first time I wore this pair, aside from the fact that I haven't worn heels in ages. Wanting to push the envelope, I wore it for 3 more consecutive days. And it is truly comfortable!
I like that the shoe is chic and versatile. I've been able to use it to dressy dinners and casual afternoons out.
I also got another pair called Calliope because I needed a pair of white sandals and these wedges were cute. Just what I was looking for.
The straps are sturdy but soft and also very comfortable. The soles were so soft! I've been using this a lot on weekends and when I need to run some personal errands.
It may not be a big deal for some but in my case, having elevated shoes that are comfortable mean a lot! I feel better dressed with it (I suppose its the added height) and more confident.
The straps are sturdy but soft and also very comfortable. The soles were so soft! I've been using this a lot on weekends and when I need to run some personal errands.
It may not be a big deal for some but in my case, having elevated shoes that are comfortable mean a lot! I feel better dressed with it (I suppose its the added height) and more confident.
Here's how the service works: You select either a 6-month or annual subscription which costs Php499 (that's approximately less than $12) per month. This allows you to receive a shoe of your choice from the first tier. If you want to purchase a pair from the second or third tier, you must purchase additional steps which cost Php500 per step. Sounds complicated? It's not. You'll get the hang of it, I promise.
Each month there's a different selection of shoes to choose from. I got my shoes from their June closet but the photo above shows the one from July. Ophelia looks really nice... Hmmmm... ;)
What do you think? Does online shoe shopping work for you? This was my first time to do it and I'm happy it turned out to be such a good experience!
Each month there's a different selection of shoes to choose from. I got my shoes from their June closet but the photo above shows the one from July. Ophelia looks really nice... Hmmmm... ;)
What do you think? Does online shoe shopping work for you? This was my first time to do it and I'm happy it turned out to be such a good experience!
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Review: A'pieu Real Recipe Banana & Oatmeal Scrub Mask
Own Purchase
Of late, I've been obsessed with facial masks and scrubs... mostly out of need. Usually, I would use two different products to exfoliate and treat my skin but A'pieu Real Recipe Banana & Oatmeal Scrub Mask is a two-in-one thing which makes skincare less of a chore. Just the thing I need on nights when all I want to do is crawl into bed the soonest possible.
After washing my face with a foam cleanser, I scoop out a small amount of this product and gently massage it for 2-3 minutes. As a general rule, I always use a light hand when exfoliating so as not to irritate my skin. Next, I let this sit in my skin for 5 minutes or so. After rinsing, I can immediately see and feel the difference on my skin. It looks smoother and has a healthy glow. Goodbye, dull skin!
It contains banana, oatmeal and guava extracts which lock in moisture. Oatmeal & apricot powder does the exfoliation - for the sake of comparison, this is less abrasive than St. Ives Apricot Scrub. It smells like banana syrup... sometimes I like it, sometimes I don't.
I would normally use this at night but I think it'll work well in the morning especially if you want to perk up your skin.
I would normally use this at night but I think it'll work well in the morning especially if you want to perk up your skin.
The tub is smaller than other non-sheet masks I've used - it contains 30ml of product. It may not seem a lot but the texture is runny and you only need to apply a thin layer. It still lasts for a decent amount of time. It took me about 2 months, maybe a little bit longer, before I used it all up. I usually use this just once a week, sometimes two, when my skin feels extra rough.
This is definitely something I would re-purchase because of how effective it is and the price is unbeatable (less than $5 from some online retailers).
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Review: Lip Monthly July 2014 Box
Press Sample
If you believe that a woman can never have too many lipsticks, then Lip Monthly might be right up your alley. It's a subscription box that promises to deliver 2-3 full sized lip products and 2-3 sample sized items every month for $10.
Lip Monthly was kind enough to send me a sample of their July box and the items I received were City Color Lip Lush Luscious Lip Crayon in Chic, Stila Lip Glaze Stick in Orange, City Color Lip Balm in Berry Rose, Appeal Cosmetics Lipstick in Redlight District and a sample-sized tube of John Frieda Frizz-Ease (this is their "Monthly Mix-up Extra").
Ah, but what bummed me out was that when our postal worker delivered the package, he left it on the porch and the Stila Lip Glaze Stick looked like this. *Sob*
There's some controversy on how current some of the products in the box are. If you read this blog and this YouTube video, you'll see that some folks have given feedback that some items have been discontinued. However, on Lip Monthly's support page, they say they do not. I recommend researching on past boxes and checking if the products indeed are still being sold or not.
left to right: Appeal Cosmetics Lipstick, Stila Lip Glaze Stick, City Color Lip Lush, City Color Lip Balm
It's nice how the products are a mix of different items - a lipstick, 2 lip pencils and a lip balm. The color selection was something I truly enjoyed.
I've never heard of Appeal Cosmetics until I received this box but the lipstick turned out to be really nice. Its long lasting and wore comfortably on my lips. The City Color Lip Lush felt a bit dry and stiff but wearing it with a lip balm makes it better. Stila's Lip Glaze Stick was just way too soft although the color is gorgeous. The City Color Lip Balm is pigmented for this type of product, wore nicely although the scent reminded me of those fruit-scented ballpens in the 80s. (Yikes!)
Given the products that were included in this box, I'd say 10 bucks is very reasonable. Lip Monthly is an international subscription box based in the US, in case you're wondering.
Tell me, is this something you would go for?
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Review: Reviva Labs Spider Vein & Rosacea Day Cream with Vitamin P
Press Sample
People with rosacea often suffer from redness and spider veins. On a superficial level, those who have it, more often than not, feel self-conscious. But it can also be very painful when your skin flares-up - like a sunburn even if you haven't been under the sun at all.
This was something I experienced a few months ago, triggered by the stress of... life... heat and the harsh department store light (I worked as a guest makeup artist for a Japanese makeup brand during that particular weekend). On the last day of my stint, my face felt really hot and I couldn't wait for my shift to be over so I could remove all the makeup from my face. When I did, I looked like a tomato and my skin felt raw. It was during this time that I whipped out my tub of Spider Vein & Rosacea Day Cream from Reviva Labs.
This was something I experienced a few months ago, triggered by the stress of... life... heat and the harsh department store light (I worked as a guest makeup artist for a Japanese makeup brand during that particular weekend). On the last day of my stint, my face felt really hot and I couldn't wait for my shift to be over so I could remove all the makeup from my face. When I did, I looked like a tomato and my skin felt raw. It was during this time that I whipped out my tub of Spider Vein & Rosacea Day Cream from Reviva Labs.
I was able to use this last year to rid myself of some minor redness and it worked well. And with my worst flare-up to date, it was exactly what I needed. My skin recovered in about 4 days because I used this.
The texture is quite thick, which makes it a challenge to spread. I recommend using a facial oil and maybe a thick serum prior to applying this cream. Doing this just makes it much easier to massage it on the face. With a watery, gel-type or light cream serum, it doesn't seem to work as well. Once you've spread it on your face, it gets absorbed easily without any sticky feeling.
One thing that might be a bit off-putting is the scent - it reminds me somewhat of Elmer's Glue-All but, for me, that is forgivable as this cream is free of artificial fragrance.
Although the product name says Day Cream it is perfectly fine to use at night.
If you suffer from the same skin condition, then this product is a must-have. In case you cannot find this locally, perhaps ask a friend or relative who has access to this to get you a tub. Seriously, its something every rosacea sufferer should have.
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Review: Mary Kay True Dimensions Lipstick in Citrus Flirt & Sassy Fuchsia
Press Sample
Mary Kay just added a few new colors to their True Dimensions Lipstick range. I've never tried this product before so I was more than happy to review. I was sent two shades - Sassy Fuchsia and Citrus Flirt. These are beautiful vivid colors perfect for daytime wear or when you just want something to instantly brighten your face.
The texture feels like a lipbalm-tint hybrid. Your lips will feel moisturized for as long as you have the product on. Because of its soft and slippery nature, the color tends to travel but only just a bit.
This lipstick can go from sheer to opaque with an ultra-glossy finish. I just dab it on for a sheer, natural lip but with two coats, I end up with a bright, solid finish. I noticed fading after 1-2 hours of wear. But even when the color fades, it still leaves a stain behind (more noticeable with Sassy Fuchsia). There is a slight sweet, candy-like scent that fades minutes upon application.
The packaging is unique. You have to press the clear top so that the tube pops outs - one of the most secure lipstick tubes I've had. It'll be safe to leave this in your handbag.
Two tips for better wear of this product:
The texture feels like a lipbalm-tint hybrid. Your lips will feel moisturized for as long as you have the product on. Because of its soft and slippery nature, the color tends to travel but only just a bit.
This lipstick can go from sheer to opaque with an ultra-glossy finish. I just dab it on for a sheer, natural lip but with two coats, I end up with a bright, solid finish. I noticed fading after 1-2 hours of wear. But even when the color fades, it still leaves a stain behind (more noticeable with Sassy Fuchsia). There is a slight sweet, candy-like scent that fades minutes upon application.
The packaging is unique. You have to press the clear top so that the tube pops outs - one of the most secure lipstick tubes I've had. It'll be safe to leave this in your handbag.
Two tips for better wear of this product:
- Exfoliate your lips. Although this product is moisturizing, if you have flaky lips, it will be accentuated by this lipstick.
- For the color to last longer, blot. I apply two coats then blot with a tissue paper. Repeat this step 1-2 more times. I find that by doing this, the color lasts longer.
Left to right: Sassy Fuchsia, Citrus Flirt
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Top: Sassy Fuchsia, Bottom: Citrus Flirt
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Pet Parenting: Remembering Portia
I've been meaning to be more active on the blog but there are things more important that I need to focus on: work (my schedule has been more erratic than ever) and my senior cats. In our household, we have 4 senior cats and 7 adults/juveniles. 2 of our seniors are seriously ill due to various reasons and require round the clock attention.
Last Monday, my Portia earned her angel wings. It was heartbreaking for our family as she was with us for 13 years.
I want to share her story with you.
My best friend, Tine, asked me one day if I wanted another cat. She said that the original owners no longer wanted Portia (who was then 1.5 in human years) because they believed that cats were bad for pregnant women. They put her in a little bird cage and gave her to my friend. Tine brought her to my house and I felt so bad that those idiots put her in such a small cage.
I wondered if there was any other reason they gave her up but I couldn't find any. She was perfect. Smart, gentle and extremely affectionate. She liked sleeping on top of my head at night. She always wanted someone to cuddle her. My mother adored her and even sang to her sometimes. All my friends who would come over instantly fell in love because of her friendly nature. When my husband would sit on the couch and watch tv, Portia would climb on his tummy and rest contentedly.
I will always remember fondly how she would get jealous of other cats. We make it a point to greet her first otherwise, she would sit around for hours with a grumpy expression on her face.
She was my princess.
I love all my cats equally but none of them are as sweet as Portia was.
All her life, she never got sick until 2 months ago. It started out as a stomach ulcer which was treated. Then she started getting sick again and we found out that she had bone spurs in her spine. It made her weak and it took her away from us.
I hope she's in a happier place and that she's forgotten about her previous owner completely. I want her to always remember how, for most of her life, she was loved by so many people.
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