Lip Oil trend is back

 

Clarin's lip oil

Lip oils are back in trend, and whenever I think of lip oils, Clarins is the one that comes to mind. I believe Clarins was the brand that really started the lip oil trend over 10 years ago, and it continues to be the OG product in this category because of its consistent quality and smart product marketing.

I had almost forgotten about lip oils and what they actually are—until I bought a new one recently and remembered why I stopped using them in the first place.

Although they sound fancy (lip oils!), they really aren’t much different from lip glosses. In fact, they’re basically lip glosses in disguise. And here’s the thing: lip glosses are not my favourite. I don’t like their consistency, and I really don’t like the sticky feeling they leave behind. Lip oils promise hydration, nourishment, and skincare-like benefits, but in reality, they don’t actually repair or strengthen your lips long-term. They give you shine, maybe a bit of temporary moisture, but that’s it.

So, I’m writing this as a reminder to myself: lip oils = lip glosses.

Pros

• Glossy shine that looks fresh and trendy
• Large doe-foot applicators (especially Clarins) make them easy to apply
• Feel lightweight on first application
• Can give temporary hydration and a smooth finish

Cons

• Basically, lip glosses in disguise—without long-term benefits
• Sticky consistency (same problem as gloss)
• Don’t truly repair or nourish lips over time
• Marketing can be misleading (“oil” makes you think skincare, but it’s not)
• Often more expensive than actual nourishing lip oils or balms

Clarin's lip oil

That being said, one thing I do like about lip oils—specifically Clarins’—is their large doe-foot applicators. They make the application so much easier and more enjoyable.

Since I've already purchased a few lip oils, I’m considering finishing them up and then refilling the tubes with actual, nourishing oils that are genuinely good for the lips. What do you think? :P

---

Conclusion:
At the end of the day, lip oils may look and feel nice, but they don’t live up to the hype. They’re glossy, they’re shiny, and yes, they can be fun—but they’re still just lip glosses dressed up as skincare. For me, the stickiness and lack of real results just aren’t worth it. Still, I might hold on to a Clarins tube for the applicator—at least that way, I can fill it with the real nourishing oils my lips actually need.

BePlain Clean Beauty Trial Kit review

I was on Olive and Young and purchased some of the BePlain popular products. They gave me 3 trial sets and I decided to test them out. Upon research, I discovered that all these are their best products. Other than step 4 (CicaCalming Gel), all of them have received one or more beauty awards.

I started testing these out on a day when my skin was famished and I had worn a (medical) mask for over 5 hours. It was a very cold day, so my heater was on full blast, not to mention, the humidity at home fell to 38%. My skin was sensitive. This is when I decided to give this kit a try!

Each kit contains 5 products. Before I begin the review, I wanted to mention that if you are planning to try out a trial kit, a good tip to remember is to give your skin enough time to absorb the product from the last step before you begin using the next step, this will allow your skin to benefit from each product and won't cross-contaminate the ingredients of each by mixing them together.

For each description, I pulled the translation from Google Translation (and made small edits)... apologizes in advance if they sound strange.

Step 1: Greenful pH-Balanced Cleansing Foam

This is a mildly acidic cleanser that is recommended to use every day. Clear to ultra-fine dust!

Mung bean extract and mung bean powder contain moisture, moisture-free face wash with mild acidity

#ideal for sensitive skin, 

#safe face wash, 

#mung bean face wash

Mung bean clears tired skin and gives a beautiful mind

In the old days, when there were no face washes, mung bean powder was used to wash grains. Mung bean has been loved for a long time as a raw material that helps purify the skin. 

BePlain mung bean foam contains mung bean extract to provide excellent cleaning powder as well as the comfort provided by grains. 

This is a gentle daily facial cleanser that is made with Mung bean extract that helps cleanse impurities while keeping the skin hydrated and comfortable.

Take a small amount and later with water, gently massage onto your face and rinse thoroughly.

impressions:

• hardly any scent (but did smell a bit like mung beans)
• very sticky and dry (needed to add water as you lather)
• worked up a nice pasty lather
• I noticed that my skin got a bit.... brighter/whiter

I noticed the aroma of mung beans the moment I started using this cleanser, it felt like I was slabbing on some mung bean paste dessert on my face. There were even bits of mung beans in the cleanser!

Step 2: Chamomile pH-Balanced Toner

Gin - Full of chamomile! Premium soothing and moisturizing feeling provided by premium ingredients/

non-plain chamomile weak acid toner

Medication containing chamomile flower extract (U.S.) Acidic production Moisturizing for the whole family

#Whole Family

#Daily

#Safe moisturizing 

Checkpoints
01 Dark chamomile flower extract and hypoallergenic formula gently soothes tired skin from external environment and stress

02 moisturize #toner pack on sensitive days. If your skin is irritated, moisten a cotton pad or dry sheet and use it as a sheet pack

This is a mild and calming toner containing Chamomile flower extract.

After cleansing, use either your hands or a cotton pad to gently pat over your face and neck in the morning and evening.

impressions:

• no scent
• very soothing
• it has an alkalized feel
• my skin absorbed everything and it felt good and plump

Step 3: Cicaful Ampoule II

A full bottle of bottle grass FULL!

The best soothing ampoule for men and women with troubled skin by word of mouth

Be Plain Cica Full Ampoule II

Contains Centella Asiatica extract

Soothing/moisturizing ALL CARE

Daily soothing ampoule

#troubled skin

#calm sica

Use it like this

01 For both men and women who need sedation

#after shaving ampoule

It has a non-sticky, refreshing finish that is suitable for any skin type. 

Men also, try using it for soothing

02 What if you need more calming?

Wet a cotton pad in the ampoule and leave it on the skin for 5 minutes. When used as a simple #ampoule pack, it is more effective for quick skin soothing. 

A highly concentrated nourishing ampoule with Centella Asiatica extract that soothes and hydrates skin.

Soothe your face with toner. Gently apply a few drops on the face and neck. Ideally use twice daily, AM and PM

impressions

• has a slight hint of floral but it is close to not having any fragrance
• ampoule = serum? it has a very serumy texture (they weren't joking when they said a few drops... all you need is a few drops for your face AND neck... you don't need more... your skin will give up absorbing more than the few drops it needs.

Step 4: Cicaful Calming Gel

Cica Gel, which contains the FULL true energy of Cica Full Ampoule, the best-selling Be Plain

Be Plain Cica Full Calming Gel

Contains Centella Asiatica extract

Soothing/moisture Barrier ALL CARE

skin temperature soothing gel

#Cica Gel

#hydration

Use it Like This

01 Use as a sleeping pack

Apply twice before going to bed and use it as a sleeping pack. The next morning, you can feel your skin feeling more comfortable.

02 Write with toner pack

Wet the toner and put it on your skin, then put Cica Full Calming Gel on it. 

It does not dry out even after leaving it on for more than 10 minutes, and it further enhances the effect of the toner pack.

A gentle soothing gel cream with Centella Asiatica extract and Fig extract that instantly produces relief and hydration for sensitive skin

take a moderate amount and gently massage over the face and body. Use twice daily, AM & PM

impressions:

• didn't feel sticky
• very light
• no scent
• has a gel-like texture similar to aloe vera (from the leaf)

Step 5: Chamomile pH-Balanced Lotion

Chamomile pH-Balanced Lotion

I did a double-take and thought this was the same product as the second step, but it isn't, they look similar but this is a lotion and that one is a toner.

Gin - Full of Chamomile! Premium soothing and moisturizing feeling provided by premium ingredients

Non-Plain Chamomile Slightly Acidic Lotion

Contains chamomile flower extract

Weak (US) acid manufacturing

safe moisturizing for the whole family

#Whole family
#daily"
#safe moisturizing

Checkpoints

01Dark chamomile flower extract and hypoallergenic formula
it gently soothes the skin tired from the external environment and stress.

02 Milk Type soft lotion
It is quickly and freshly absorbed, leaving rough skin soft and moist

A mild and calming lotion containing Chamomile flower extract that delivers hydration to skin for a supple, soft, and healthy-looking complexion

soothe your face with toner, apply twice daily in the morning and evening. 

impressions:

• reminds me of emulsion (light milky moisturizing solution)
• no scent
• added an extra layer of "protection" to seal everything in
• face felt even softer after using

so.... wow! just.... wow! I love this trial kit! I used this skin routine for a few days (since I had a few trial kits) and noticed a dramatic change in my skin!... 

This is perfect for those who have very sensitive skin and/or damaged skin. 

I'm done! This post took A LOT LONGER than I thought it would take!... I apologize for any broken English (my brain was fried by the time I finished trying to figure out what the Korean-> English translations were saying).

Overall, BePlain seems to be a good skincare brand. I am planning on buying their full-size products for the Camomile products and the green bean (mung bean) cleanser. 

Let me know if there were any products you found interesting :) or which ones have you used/heard about and are interested in/have an opinion about :)

The Body Shop Seaweed Clarifying Toner review

 

There are a few things I like about the Body shop, one, they don't test on animals, two, they are vegan and three, they try to be environmentally friendly. 

I bought this product (as recommended by my SA at The Body Shop). This product claims to rebalance and revives your skin 

Further product features:

Rebalance and revive your skin with this harmonizing, alcohol-free toner. This will gently cleanse impurities while targeting combination skin, to purify and refresh. Suitable for combination/ oily skin Mineral rich seaweed from Roaring Water Bay, Ireland Alcohol-free Algae and cucumber extract Clarifying and purifying

Red Algae Extract We use this in skin-protecting products for its vitamin C content. It helps our products make your skin look brighter. Seaweed (Irish moss, to be precise) is an algae we add to our Seaweed skincare.

Here are the ingredients:

SEAWEED OIL BALANCING TONER Aqua, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Trideceth-9, Phenoxyethanol, Glycerin, Methylparaben, Parfum, Propylene Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Butylparaben, Ethylparaben, Menthol, Propylparaben, Fucus Vesiculosus Extract, Linalool, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Benzyl Salicylate, Benzyl Alcohol, Cucumis Sativus Fruit Extract, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate.

it claims it is alcohol-free, but it contains Benzyl alcohol. 🤔 

Benzyl Alcohol is an aromatic alcohol used in a wide variety of cosmetic formulations as a fragrance component, preservative, solvent, and viscosity-decreasing agent. Benzoic Acid is an aromatic acid used in a wide variety of cosmetics as a pH adjuster and preservative.

pros:

• moisturizes and prevents oil from forming
• and has a nice ocean aroma (salt and seaweed)

cons:

• this toner stings!
• why did they add mint?
• made my skin breakout 😡 

The minty feeling wasn't a refreshing sensation, but a horrible sting. I could not emphasize how much hate I have towards this product... it irritates me skin AND stings. After using it at home, I couldn't get it off my face fast enough DX... 

None of the "benefits" could justify the cons... I. DO. NOT. RECOMMEND.THIS.PRODUCT.

It is possibly one of the worst products I have ever used from The Body Shop >___<

score: 1/10
website: https://www.thebodyshop.com/en-ca/face/cleansers-toners/seaweed-oil-balancing-toner/p/p000072?gclid=CjwKCAiAlrSPBhBaEiwAuLSDUDv1OIihtp0u38EO8OXFjUvT1NcL5nWJErssZlROCJpB_XftC0T-IhoC8WoQAvD_BwE

Paula's Choice Hydrating Treatment Mask review

 

I came across this "mask" while I was on their website to refill on more of their popular leave-on exfoliant. 

My skin has been quite dry lately and since I am very impressed with their exfoliate I decided to give this mask a try. I haven't heard of it prior and there seems to be no mention of this product from other skincare specialists. 

This is a hydrating treatment mask that contains Borage oil. According to stylist.co.uk, "Borage oil treats all kinds of skin inflammation including eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, and rosacea. It is also good if your skin feels dry as it is calming, nourishing, and redness-erasing prowess. It's also useful in helping calm acne and it's lighter than many other oils so won't leave your face feeling greasy."

This mask claims to hydrate dry, flaky skin, fortifies the protective moisture barrier, and calms and soothes sensitive skin. It is listed under their "Skin Recovery". Paula's Choice also recommends it as a good hand hydrating mask (but I didn't/haven't feel/felt the benefits of it).

Directions 

Use on clean skin. Apply a generous layer all over the face and neck. Leave on overnight as your last step in your skincare routine. Use as often as needed.

I have been using this mask (sometimes I use it as a moisturizer and almost every night as a leave-on mask) for almost 4 months and I love it!

Impressions:

• affordable
• calming
• your skin needs to adjust to the texture
• it hydrates your dry skin!
• can be used as a moisturizer/eye cream
• long-lasting (effects last for hours)
• Use around 1 cm of product for the whole face
• very thick, leave-on mask but light-weight (skin absorbs every bit of product)
• no irritation
• softens skin, soothes skin
• non-greasy

When I first started using this mask, my skin felt uncomfortable with the thickness and consistency, it took around 2 weeks till my skin was able to adjust and became comfortable with the consistency and properly absorbed the product. 

I noticed it would dry out some smaller pimples and acne within 1-2 uses.  I use it as an overnight leave-on mask, and my skin feels very plump and hydrated the next day. There was a tiny wrinkle on my skin (prior to using this mask) and this mask took it out within 2-3 uses!

I have super sensitive skin and this mask/cream did not cause any issues. There was absolutely no irritation, but my skin had to adjust to the thickness of "learning how to absorb it properly". 

I am super happy I found this product and it is also one of Paula's Choice's more affordable products.

Score: 10/10
Website: https://www.paulaschoice.com/skin-recovery-hydrating-treatment-mask/280.html

AHA BHA PHA 30 Days Miracle Cream Some by Mi review

I have been eyeing this cream for some time... it has AHA, BHA and PHA.

AHA which stands for alpha hydroxy acid focuses on removing layers of dead skin cells on the surface level and stimulates collagen and humectant properties

BHA stands for beta hydroxy acid penetrates deeper under the surface of the skin to degunk debris from the pores. It is good for acne-prone skin, anti-inflammatory, and also stimulates collagen production.

PHA stands for Poly hydroxy Acid removes layers of dead skin cells on the surface and helps the skin absorb products better. 

This cream claims to smoothly exfoliate and strengthen your skin barrier with tea tree leaf water, Centella Asiatica. It also has Madecassoside to protect sensitive skin and helps it stay healthy.

This cream contains Centella 700,000ppm

Instructions:

Take an appropriate amount and spread evenly onto the skin. 

Since there is a serum version, I assume this cream acts as a moisturizer.

 impressions:

• woody minty smell
• soothing for skin
• very lightweight
• effects are not long-lasting
• only provides a temporary relief
• you need a liberal amount (for 30 days, this is a lot of product!)

I was very excited when I first saw this cream however, after using it for 30 days, I didn't see any significant changes to my skin, it is good as a temporary relief from dryness but it didn't provide life-changing or amazing results.  It is a lightweight product and doesn't provide any protective barrier (like most moisturizers do). 

I liked how the woody mintiness of the cream calmed my skin (when it felt irritated, dry, sensitive) but I didn't like how it just seemed to stop at that. I didn't feel any major changes or improvements to my skin.

While it doesn't irritate my skin at all (despite all of the exfoliants) it didn't do a good job helping my skin improve.

unfortunately, this is not as good as most have said it is. 

Score: 5.5/10

Website: no website

Two Mists and One Moisturizer Mask friendly Routine

 

With the Pandemic still ongoing, masks are making it very difficult to pile on thicker products. Thicker products tend to build up along the edges of the mask and as a result, some areas of the face have too much product and others parts (particularly the mouth area) have none. So after trial and error, this is the routine that works for me!

I have been this for almost a month now and not a pimple in sight (my skin is soft, so soft). You don't have to use the exact same products I mentioned, but these were the ones that I had available and worked for me.

Refresher - Kiehl's Cactus Flower & Tibetan Ginseng Hydrating Mist ($36 USD)

The purpose of this step is to wake up your skin and allow it to feel "refreshed", softened and moistened so it will be ready to accept and absorb products easily. I like this mist because it not only does what I want it to do, but it also helps my skin retain and adds in moisture while being lightweight at the same time. There is a slight stickiness but it goes away within minutes and won't transfer to your mask.

Serum (optional)

If you must apply a serum this is the step to do it. This step is optional and is needed only if your skin has very specific needs (e.g. dark spots, or very specific fixes). I didn't suggest a product since this is for those who must use a serum and everyone's needs are different. 

This is the most ideal step to apply a serum because the first mist has already softened your skin and allows it to absorb products (while the next step will seal everything in).

Hydrator and Barrier - innisfree Olive Real Oil Mist ($12 USD)

The purpose of this step is to seal everything and making sure that there is a protective barrier. Innisfree's Olive Real Oil Mist does this. The olive oil not only hydrates the skin but also creates a small protective layer. I chose this mist because it doesn't leave any residue or oily gunk, like a lot of facial oils do. 

Moisturizer (optional)

Preferably for drier climates and days, you feel you just need a little more of a boost. If you find the need to apply a moisturizer, this will be the step to do it. I only do this once a while (as in... once a week or less).

Since the second mist already hydrates and provides a good barrier... this step is optional and only if you feel the need (listen... or... feel your skin and see what it wants) I usually only add in this step if my skin is still very dry after the second mist or I know the humidity levels will be very low (e.g. in a room full of AC). I wouldn't suggest adding this step as part of this regular routine because moisturizers can leave residue and defeat the purpose of this routine. 

Hope this helps :)

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant review

Known as the holy grail for most skincare enthusiasts, and perhaps the product that got you to research and know about Paula's Choice, this Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, leave on skin exfoliant is one of the best skin care products you can get for your skin. 

I am no less, but also in the same boat. I have not heard of Paul's Choice till this product. It is listed as step three (There are five steps: 1. Cleanse, 2. Tone, 3. Exfoliate, 4. Treat, and 5. Moisturize) so this is step is placed after your toner and before your serum. 

 Impressions:

• no scent, but there is a very very light acidic smell
• leaves your T-zone (and any part of the oilier areas of your face) oily
• makes your skin very very soft (since it is an exfoliant)
• must use twice a day (to see and maintain results)
• causes your more sensitive skin (e.g. acne-prone, eczema, etc) with a slightly uncomfortable irritating tingly feeling
• consistency is slightly thicker than water, a bit similar to toners
• they recommended using this on the face and neck, but I didn't feel any significant changes to the skin on my neck after using it for 2 weeks...

I love this product! My skin loves it... and I saw visible results within days of using it. Please be aware that your more sensitive skin (acne areas, eczema, and thinner skin areas) will have a slightly irritating tingly feeling (but that should go away within a few minutes). Also, be aware that it will leave the oilier parts of your face (e.g. t-zone area) much oilier. The oiliness doesn't produce acne or anything concerning, it just looks very shiny.

Make sure you use this product twice a day to see results... there were days where I only used it once and my skin did not see as good results (as in, my skin wasn't as smooth as it would have been if I had used it twice a day).

Also, since you are exfoliating your skin, it will definitely be more sensitive to the sun, so if you are using this in the daytime, make sure to follow up with a moisturizer and some sunscreen.

score: 9.5/10
website: https://www.paulaschoice.com/skin-perfecting-2pct-bha-liquid-exfoliant/201.html

e.l.f. Hydrating Bubble Mask review

 

I found this on iHerb and I was very fortunate to get a hold of it before it discontinued... O.o

My iHerb referral code is: https://www.iherb.com/?rcode=CVX9348 you can use it (and we both get 5% off our purchases :D... it works with both new and existing customers)

This is a no parabens, no sulphates and no phthalates product.

According to the packaging, this is a hydrating and nourishing gel that transforms into a bubble mask once applied to the skin. It removes excess dirt and cleanses pores and helps the skin become healthy and glowing. 

Directions:

push down on the sides of the top to dispense the product (this just means it has a top big pump type of dispenser) Apple a thin layer all over slightly damp skin and bubbles will form. When the bubbles begin to dissipate (in 5-10 minutes time) massage with fingertips and wash with warm water to remove. Pat dry and follow with a moisturizer.

Impressions:

• the pump is not easy to use 
• you need 2-3 pumps to cover your entire face
• it dries your skin making it feel very tight and uncomfortable
• my skin felt very dry after using it (not moisturizing)
• do not rub the product into face and do not go over the same place again

so... I ran into a few problems... 

first, you need to push down the pump using both hands, any imbalance and the dispenser will not dispense out any product

second, make sure to only put the product on your face without rubbing it in or going back for a second time or the product will not bubble.

third, this product stings eyes so make sure you don't get any of the product near your eyes (especially when you are washing your face)

forth, since it is drying... make sure you apply a moisturizer right after you wash your face

It was an experience using this product. It seems promising but unfortunately, it wasn't for me. 

score: 5/10

website: https://www.elfcosmetics.com/hydrating-bubble-mask/57021.html#q=bubble%2Bmask&lang=en_US&start=3

Cerave Moisturizing Cream review (Winter)

If you have been a reader for some time, you will know that I am not a huge fan of drug store skin care.

This was an exception because almost EVERYONE is talking about Cerave. Go on youtube and you will see dermatologists, skincare professionals, consumers are all raving about the brand.

I went to my local drug store and got myself one of their more popular items to give it a try.

This formula contains: 

• Ceramides: Essential for healthy skin, ceramides help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier 
• Hyaluronic acid: This ingredient helps attracts hydration to the skin’s surface and helps the skin retain moisture 
• MVE Technology: This patented delivery system continually releases moisturizing ingredients for all-day hydration.

Winter Edition:
I am using this in the middle of winter, which possibly is the driest season of the year (with the heaters on full blast). I have a feeling my review would be much different during the rainy season or any other season that has more humidity in the air (I will do a follow-up review once a more humid season arrives.

pros:

• hardly any scent
• moisturizes very well
• nonsticky but thick
• works with my super sensitive skin
• works on the face, body (and hands)
• works great with other lotions

cons:

• not long-lasting
• need to slab on a thick layer and even then it only lasts for 8 hours or less
• uses up quickly(because a generous amount is needed)
• needs to be used with other lotions (I use additional lotions to enhance and prolong the moisturizing effects)

Cerave pump version

I found the jar to be a bit unhygienic so I opted for the pump version (which costs a few dollars more). The pump is incredibly nice to use and I don't have to contaminate the unused products.

Verdict:

I like it but I am a bit disappointed with how it does not lasts as most body lotions (Crabtree and Evelyn). For the price of $24.99 Canadian (or $20 USD), it is very affordable for 456g of product.

I like how it does not agitate my super sensitive skin at all (even Keri lotion irritates my skin) and that it is almost completely scentless.

I can feel my skin instantly absorbs the cream once I apply it and no matter how many layers I add, my skin manages to absorb it all up.

When I apply it at night after my shower, my skin feels content, but the moment I wake up, I can feel my skin itching because the moisturizing effect is not long-lasting.

Since I am in the middle of winter, I will try to give another review during a more humid/less harsh season.

What I found most useful is pairing this with another drug store cream (I currently use Vaseline's Dry Skin Repair)

Score: 7.8/10
Website: https://www.cerave.ca/our-products/moisturizers/moisturizing-cream?gclid=CjwKCAiA1rPyBRAREiwA1UIy8AOJATe_e2AfHKDoujTItx83kMs-Jy221UpHfzugLswFad0G5xEU9RoCm44QAvD_BwE

Annie's Way Mask Gallery Arbutin + Hyaluronic Acid Jelly Mask review

I have heard about this mask for ages and I finally have it in my hands! I know this isn't the newest product out there... but if it is good... it doesn't matter... right? 

So for a quick background, this mask made its debut 4 years ago (2014) and every beauty guru was talking about this product. A lot of them claimed how this mask has changed their skin. 

Fast forward to 2018, the product is almost nonexistent. Their website no longer works, and everyone has moved onto other products.

I wanted to try this product for a long time, but when I received this product (online shopping) I got busy and forgot about it until now.

ingredients

the instructions are very straightforward: after washing your face and applying moisturizing lotion (Asian kind) add a 0.5cm thickness to the skin. Wait 30 minutes and wipe it off. Put an extra thick layer to your nose. After you are done, wash with water and apply a serum or other masks to make this mask more effective. 

pros

• moisturizes skin

cons

• need to use a lot of product each time
• messy (you need to apply 0.5cm thickness of product)
• uncomfortable, I couldn't wait to remove it

I can see how it quickly came and how it quickly went. While this mask does its job, I found it too much of a hassle to use. You MUST put a 0.5cm thickness of product or the product will dry on your face and reverse suck out the moisture from your skin. It was hard to slab on THAT much product without making a mess. It also felt incredibly uncomfortable on my skin. The thickness of the product caused it to stick to my eyelashes and while it did not have a droopy feeling, my skin did not like the texture after 10 minutes.

There are way better products out on the market which can do what this mask does without the mess and hassle.

score: 5/10

website: http://www.annies-way.com/ (no longer works)

Classification: gimmick

if you are interested, please check out my personal blog and follow me around Tokyo :)

Barrier Repair Sleeping Pack Power of Rice Milk Review

the container

Japan winters are dry... if anyone else tells you otherwise... DO NOT BELIEVE THEM. The skin on my face has been suffering, especially when I wake up in the morning, I can see flakes of skin (no matter how much night cream I have applied.

I actually found this by accident... sort of. I was looking at another product when this one caught my eye... I had a feeling this product was going to be good.

Made in Japan

price: ¥1290 ($11.50 USD)

company/manufacturer: mandom corp

the packaging

the recommendation is: wash face, apply a moisturizing lotion, apply cream and then apply this sleeping pack.

I usually apply this product right before going to sleep.

Here is some information from their website (which is in Japanese... let me give you a brief translation)

Just apply and go to bed, it will penetrate thoroughly at night.

Use this pack at the end of your skin care routine (most Asian skincare calls masks packs, and sheet masks "mask")

The pack will last all night without any stickiness. It is intensive care while you sleep. When you wake up in the morning, your skin will feel moist, plump and ready for makeup. 

Ingredients are taken from unpolished rice that is great for your inferior skin. 

This product is blended with a rice milk complex (for moisturizing purposes)

This product also includes Phytic acid, inositol. Which are taken from rice germ oil capsule and rice 

When your skin lacks elasticity or transparency, these ingredients will through a sleep serum prescription take care of that and give your skin its elasticity and transparency. 

The effective working rice milk supported by the "rice fermented extract" formulation. 

This product also contains Saccharomyces - a rice fermented liquid for moisturizing purposes. 

before I get to my thoughts, I want to mention just how considerate it was for them to include a spatula (scoop?). Not only is this more hygienic but it also makes it easier to get the right amount.

after using it every day for a week

My THOUGHTS!

• there is no scent 
• it is not sticky (the product immediately absorbs into your skin)
• easy to apply (did I mention the spatula?)
• you just need a penny size worth of product
• I do not notice it after a few minutes
• affordable

I haven't found a con, so let me continue with my thoughts

Pros!

• it says exactly what it does and more!
• my skin felt so soft and smooth the next day
• got rid of all my dryness problems (my skin feels moisturized, plump, smooth and soft)
• so far it has only been doing good to my skin and I love it
• the effects last the whole day, but I still recommend putting on some moisturizer 
• the more frequent you use it (I use it every night) the more you will notice your skin becoming stronger and moisturized, plump, smooth and soft. 
• I have been using this product for two months already and the effects were as good as the first week!
• a little goes a long way... I foresee my container lasting for atleast 6 months

Con

• I will update any cons (cause at the moment I can't think of any or experience any...)

After using this product for 2 weeks (keep in mind, Japanese winters are harsh to skin) I sometimes forget to do my morning skincare routine because I forgot my skin needs to... and sometimes when I forget, my skin can last a whole day (no products, and I don't use makeup) without feeling dry or having the need to use product (I don't recommend this but it is possible!)

I honestly cannot say enough good things about it... I really like it!

I highly recommend this product!!!!

score: 10/10 (when was the last time one of my products got a full score?)

website: www.barrier-repair.jp (you will have to scroll to the middle of the page to find it)

amazon link: https://www.amazon.co.jp/Barrier-Repair-%E3%83%90%E3%83%AA%E3%82%A2%E3%83%AA%E3%83%9A%E3%82%A2-%E3%82%B9%E3%83%AA%E3%83%BC%E3%83%94%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B0%E3%83%91%E3%83%83%E3%82%AF-80g/dp/B074N637G5/ref=as_li_ss_tl?m=AN1VRQENFRJN5&s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1503282132&sr=1-8&keywords=%E3%83%90%E3%83%AA%E3%82%A2%E3%83%AA%E3%83%9A%E3%82%A2&linkCode=ll1&tag=mandom09-22&linkId=682dc74263563011abbcec5dd961907f 

(I'm not affiliated with it, just for your convenience, taken from their official website) 

Hada Labo 5 in 1 Skin whitening Cream review

Hada Labo's 5 in 1 Whitening

So the name might be slightly confusing, this is actually an all in one cream that you can use after you wash/cleanse your face. You just need to put this on your face and that will be equivalent to putting on toner/moisturizing lotion, moisturizer/emulsion, Serum (美容液), cream (クリームバック),

information on how the products absorb

This was very affordable only ¥1350. It lasted 1.5 months for me (I use it every night and day).

caution and ingredients

• Do not use this on eczema or broken skin,
• Do not store in cold or hot places
• It also lists all the ingredients

how to use this product

Translation (based on my limited Japanese) :

• Night time, after washing your face, apply an appropriate amount to face
• It is not necessary to wash it off
• They recommend... (cannot translate this... have no idea what they are trying to say)
• You can use this with other skin care items (products)

pros:

• time efficient
• my blackheads and whiteheads started to pop and disappear (just 3 days of using this product)
• can be used as an overnight mask

cons:

• stings open pores and wounds A LOT
• moisturizing effects are not long lasting
• cannot separate the different products
• some times it will leave a dry crusty residue on your skin

This was a decent product. It really helped me save a lot of time and made my skin feel very moisturized but did not last the whole day... I had to reapply to maintain the moisture. Sometimes it had weird residue too. It made by pores a lot smaller. There are many advantages as well as disadvantages to this product but I really liked the idea that it was all in one (saving a lot of time and space on my desk). I will definitely be repurchasing this product.

Score: 7.8/10
Website: http://jp.rohto.com/category/skincare/face/

Laneige Perfect Renew Trial Kit review

Laneige Perfect Renew Trial Kit

To be honest, I haven't had much luck with Laneige product other than their sleeping pack. Their serum/essence have done nothing for me. But a few days ago, I came across their trial kit and decided to give their products just ONE more chance... because the brand is quite well known... it SHOULD be good... kind of right? what harm could a trial kit do?

product details and amounts contained

For this review, I will be focusing on the whole kit instead of individual products since it is hard to give a review after using them in such small amounts.

Sorry guys, I can't read Korean and wasn't able to find a friend who was able to translate it for me. (if you know what it says (other than the product names) please let me know!

Products:

1. Perfect Renew Cream 10ml x 1
2. Perfect Renew Emulsion 10ml x 1
3. Perfect Renew Skin Refiner 10ml x 1
4. Perfect Renew Essence 5ml x 1
5. Perfect Renew Night Treatment 5ml x 1

Pack Size - 5 pcs



Replete with rejuvenating Ceramide Repair Water, the complementary products work in sync to hydrate skin and deliver skin renewing peptide right where skin aging begins.

How to Use: 

Apply skin refiner > Emulsion > Essence and finally Cream. 

For night use Perfect Renew Night Treatment.

impressions

• long lasting (but I didn't use it religiously)
• perfect renew... excuse me... renew...
• did not improve skin condition

all the products and their containers

So, you gotta give them credit, despite the small amounts offered... this stuff lasts... it can last for up to 2 weeks... but I don't care...

... I am breaking up with Laneige... or more appropriately, I am blacklisting their products (other than the sleep pack. Their products SUCK! And I'm not just saying this... after using this kit my skin condition not only stayed the same, it worsened!

Never in my life had I had pimples/acne problems... although I can't say that my skin was "perfect" I did not have your average person skin problems... BUT! after using this product for only 2 days, pimples started forming on my lower jaw area, acne started developing on my nose/mouth area, oil was present on my tzone (I had to use blotting paper to get rid of all that oil)... my face was a disaster! I don't understand why their products are so popular...

score: 0/10... sorry.... -10/10
website: (no website... but who cares.., you can see how mad I am...)

BioTherm Liquid Glow Skin-Best review

packaging

Due to climate changes, I feel my skin getting rougher and drier... so while I was shopping at Shoppers Drug Mart, I came across Biotherm's Liquid Glow Skin Best, I have never used any Biotherm products before, but have heard lots of great reviews so I decided to give this face oil a try.



Price: $65 + 13% tax (total: $73.45)

packaging

What it claims:

A revolution in facial oils : the 1st dry oil ultra-concentrated in one of the most powerful antioxydant algae extract : Astaxanthin. Skin is instantly smoothed out and complexion is naturally enhanced.

Ingredients:

How to use it:

There are 4 ways you can use this:

• ALL DAY GLOW TOUCHES: Apply by pressing to add touches of glow.
• NIGHT DETOX: Massage the face for a detoxing effect.
• WITH YOUR SKINCARE: Mix a drop of oil with your skincare to add an antioxidant power.
• RADIANCE RECOVERY MASK: Apply in thick layer, leave-on for 10 min then wipe-off the excess.


pros:

• hygienic
• makes skin feel so soft (just takes 2 days to notice the difference)
• a little goes a long way
• smells nice
• easy to apply

cons:

• leaves an unpleasant oil crust on skin hours after applying
• easy to drop bottle
• bottle is made out of glass (breakable)
• hard to take out 10% of remaining product (pump is too short)
• oily
• a bit pricy

My favourite way of using this oil is Night Detox (see above). I love massaging the product into my face and letting my face absorb all of it. I find Emulsion works best with this product while moisturizer doesn't.

you can see how the base of the bottle is very uneven and easy to tip over in this picture

One thing I hate about this oil is the bottle... I have a love hate relationship with it, I love it because it feels more expensive but I hate it at the same time because it is not sturdy, making it easy for the container to tip over (and perhaps breaking and wasting all of the remaining product).

I love what this product has done to my skin and you can see results after 2 days! Like most facial oils, this product leaves an unpleasant oily crust on your skin a few hours after using it. So I recommend covering it with an emulsion.

I highly recommend this product but I do find it quite pricey, a bottle lasts about 4 months.

score: 8.5/10
website: http://www.biotherm.ca/product/skin-best-liquid-glow,default,pd.html