Wet'n Wild Break up proof eyeliner - Black Brown review

Wet'n Wild has always resonated with me as a "beginner's make up product". I was first introduced to it when I was still in grade 7, but have gone to other higher ended brands ever since. Their products are vegan and cruelty-free and very affordable. (This eyeliner was less than $3.00). 

btw, I have a referral code (good for new and existing customers, you get 5% off your purchase using this code at iHerb: https://www.iherb.com/?rcode=CVX9348)

This is a retractable thick eyeliner.

It claims to last 16 hours, cry-proof, humidity-proof and smudge-proof.

They say it is ophthalmologist tested and safe for contact lens wearers. 

This is a detailed description from their website: 

Our waterproof, silky formula is lightweight, comfortable, and glides onto the lids without tugging or pulling the delicate eye area. The satin gel formula delivers up to 16 hours of long-lasting, pigment-rich color in every effortlessly, smooth application. Smudge-proof, cry-proof and humidity-proof.

ingredients:

Synthetic Wax, Isododecane, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Phenylpropyldimethylsiloxysilicate, Microcrystalline Wax/Cire Microcristalline, Isobutylmethacrylate/Bis-Hydroxypropyl Dimethicone Acrylate Copolymer, Polyisoprene, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Dimethicone, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, VP/Hexadecene Copolymer, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Propylene Carbonate, [+/- (MAY CONTAIN/PEUT CONTENIR): Iron Oxides/CI 77491, 77492, 77499, Black 2/CI 77266, Ultramarines/CI 77007, Ferric Ferrocyanide/CI 77510, Titanium Dioxide/CI 77891]. [1910-2]

outcome

impressions:

• that is a lot of ingredients for an eyeliner 
• it isn't easy to use, hard to get a desirable line
• quite waxy and left residue
• the "line" isn't consistent and can be very patchy
• not smudge-proof, all you need is a tissue and it can be removed
• very budget-friendly (only $3.00)
• colour is nice, not 100% natural-looking but nothing "bold"
• good for quick fixer-uppers
• according to the website, it is safe for contact lenses wearers

Verdict:

While it is an affordable eyeliner, I didn't really like it as much as I thought I would. It was extremely hard to control the consistency of the product, and it is very waxy (not silky, as they claim). It left a lot of additional "residue" which makes it easy to make mistakes. If you are only looking for something that will make do for emergency situations then this is a great choice since it is affordable, but if you are trying to get a certain look, then this might not be a good product for you. 

score: 6.8/10
website: https://www.wetnwildbeauty.com/mega-last-breakup-proof-retractable-eyeliner-2020.html
 

Recipe: Keto Cheese Crisp's

cheese crisps

I was craving some cheese and came across these Keto Cheese snacks. These are super easy to make and I had all the ingredients (shredded cheese) so I gave it a try.

Things you will need:

• shredded cheese
• a piece of parchment paper (so it won't stick to your plate and it is easy to peel off the cheese)
• a microwave

Instructions:

Put a teaspoon worth of shredded cheese in a pile on a piece of parchment paper and pop it in the microwave for 40-90 seconds*. 

*Every microwave is different, my microwave was 50 seconds (most recipes I read had a range of a minute to a minute thirty seconds). 

I didn't expect them to turn out quite decent :P They are super crispy (if you let it cool for a few seconds) and they help satisfy your cheese craving. These are also Keto diet-friendly (for those of you who are on Keto Diets).

 

This method gets rid of a lot of the excessive oil in the cheese too :D... so you know... you will feel less guilty about eating/indulging them ;)

Single's Sliced Cheese version

I tried this with Single's Sliced cheese but it didn't work as well. (Single's Sliced cheese, for those who don't know, are those processed cheeses that come individually wrapped.)

cheese crisp using Singles Sliced Cheese (processed cheese slice)

While it does look as good as the shredded cheese version, it was less tasty. (Just leaving this here in case that is all you have... it works... but less tasty).

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

The Ordinary Niacinamide 10% Zinc 1% review

 

The Ordinary has been highly praised by a lot of YouTubers, so I decided to give this a try (I wasn't able to get their top-selling product, the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Treatment exfoliator, so I settled for their second most popular product) Niacinamide 10% Zinc 1%.

This wasn't made clear whether it is a serum or a toner... etc, but given the consistency, I think it is a serum.

According to the product description, Niacinamide and actually Vitamin B3. It is used to reduce skin blemishes and congestion. The Zinc is used to balance the visible aspects of sebum activity. Niacinamide can also brighten the skin tone.

Directions

Apply to face morning and evening before heavier creams. (the heavier creams is the important part...)

Ingredients

Aqua (Water), Niacinamide, Pentylene Glycol, Zinc PCA, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Tamarindus Indica Seed Gum, Xanthan gum, Isoceteth-20, Ethoxydiglycol, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin.

impressions:

• affordable ($6.00 for 30ml)
• this product stings!
• there is a light weird acidic smell (think vinegar or a diluted nail polish remover)
• it has a thick consistency
• skin absorbs it immediately
• I love that it is in a glass container (including the dropper)
• leaves skin with a sticky feeling
• must use a moisturizer after (this is what they were talking about when they mentioned heavier creams in their directions)
• it smooths skin but results aren't long-lasting

So one of the first things I noticed was that it really stings! my skin eventually got used to the product and it stopped stinging after using it for a week. 

It is thicker than I thought, and my skin absorbed it quickly, though it did leave my skin with a sticky feeling... the first few times I used this, I made the mistake of not applying a moisturizer afterwards, and that remaining sticky solution started leeching the moisture from my face... so make sure you apply heavy moisturizer afterwards to prevent this from happening.

Verdict:

I like this product, but it is definitely not as good as I thought it would be. It definitely smooths out my skin but the effects aren't long-lasting (it only takes my skin 3-4 hours for the effects to revert back). I also didn't see how the condition of my skin has improved after using it (aside from the first few hours of using it).

score: 6.8/10
website: https://theordinary.deciem.com/product/rdn-niacinamide-10pct-zinc-1pct-30ml?redir=1&gclid=CjwKCAiAn7L-BRBbEiwAl9UtkKD8z9WodLiAI7f8eof-LAvnL9cmy3BgrcsnYxkMoWz1FcIN1WtLhxoCzVUQAvD_BwE

Kiehl's Cactus Flower & Tibetan Ginseng Hydrating Mist review

Hello, my beautiful friends, sorry for being MIA for so long! I try to update my daily blog but I haven't had the motivation to try and test out new products. I have been using this hydrating mist for two years now and I decided I am confident to give a review.

French version/side of the product

This is the first Kiehl's product I have featured on my blog but it isn't the first one I have used nor will it be my last. 

What is this mist

This is a cooling refreshing spray/mist which purifies and hydrates skin. 

It is perfect for hydrating your skin when you wake up, or when your skin feels dry during the day. 

It is formulated with Cactus flower which is a good skin refresher and Tibetan ginseng which increases skin cell respiration. According to Kiehl's, this formula helps skin maintain its essential moisture to keep it soft and smooth. This product doesn't contain any Parabens. 

This mist can be used under or over makeup to keep skin hydrated especially in dry environments (where you need to turn on your AC or heater).

It supports natural skin-cell respiration and helps maintain essential moisture to keep it soft and smooth while detoxifying and protecting skin from environmental aggressors.

The full ingredient list:

• Cactus Flower: Moisturizes and supports natural skin moisture. 
• Tibetan Ginseng: Invigorates skin and protects against environmental aggressors. 
• Geranium, Lavender and Rosemary: Soothe skin. 

Water, Alcohol Denat., Glycerinpeg-40, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia Oil / Lavender Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower, Oil Linalool, Hydrolyzed Opuntia Ficus, Indica Flower Extract, Citronellol Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil / Rosemary Leaf Oil, Geraniol Phenoxyethanol, Rhodiola Rosea Root Extract, Ethylhexyl, Glycerin, Citral, Limonene.

How to use:

There isn't a set rule or instruction but this is what I use when I feel my skin is dry or after I wake up.

on your dry skin, spray 3-5 times and use your fingers to massage the product into your face. 

First impressions:

• has a very essential oil scent (can be a pro or a con for some people)
• very light
• works immediately
• skin absorbs this product nicely (but I always massage my face with my fingers to help it absorb better)
• quenches skin
• effects (soft and smooth) last for a while but would recommend using a moisturizer after
• a slightly sticky residue remains on hands (not a fan of this)

I am a big fan of aromatic/essential oils, so I am used to this type of scent, however, I feel some might find the scent a bit too strong. It will take a while to get used to it. The scent will go away in 5 minutes of using it so don't worry about it lingering. 

Despite the mist containing a lot of oils, it does not feel "oily" at all, in fact, if I haven't checked the ingredients list, I wouldn't have known it contains any oil. 

Because of its lightness, the product is able to go under the dry skin barrier and replenish your skin. It somehow moisturizes the inside and hydrates your skin from the inside to the outside making your skin feel soft and smooth. It reminds me of how ionic hair dryers dry your hair from the core and works its way to the outside... except this product moisturizes your skin from the inside to the outside.

I really like this spray and highly recommend it.

score: 9.3/10

website: https://www.kiehls.ca/en/skincare/facial-toners/cactus-flower-tibetan-ginseng--hydrating-mist/WW0016KIE.html

Tim Hortons Chicken Noodle review

I left Toronto 4 years ago, with Timmies being a coffee chain... fast forward to the present, and I see their hot food items in grocery store aisles! Since I am in the middle of a pandemic (seriously... how many times have I wrote this already?... 3 times, 4 times?) I decided to give their canned soups a try. 

I loved eating at Timmy's during my undergrad days... their soups, especially, were fresh and felt homemade. It was a cheaper alternative to our campus' Starbuck's and it filled my belly without killing my wallet (keep in mind, I was a student back then).

Upon doing some research, I have learned that they have discontinued Chicken Noodle Soup from their store menus... so this is a perfect alternative to those who crave their Chicken Noodle soup (in fact, probably a better alternative since you can make this at home).

When I dumped everything from the can, I was slightly disappointed in how different it looks from the image on their can... but it did smell like their store-bought soups. 

No extra water needed... I just had to boil the soup and it is ready to eat.

It looked slightly better in my soup bowl where you can see more pasta and veggie bits. 

impressions

• good soup
• a fair ratio of liquid vs pasta/veggies
• wish there were more pieces of chicken

I was quite impressed. Although they didn't have as many pieces of chicken as they did at their store, it was a hearty bowl of soup. 

score: 8/10

website: https://company.timhortons.com/us/en/promos/soup.php

I-Mei Pearl Milk Tea Ice Bar short review

The Chinese name for this product is 義美奶茶冰棒

義美 (Yimei) is a well-known Taiwanese consumer brand and a major milk processor. I have seen their popsicles (ice pops, etc) at T&T (a Taiwanese grocery store) for years.

During this pandemic, it has been very inconvenient to go out and get bubble tea so I have been looking for alternatives.

I saw these ice pops/popsicles and decided to give them a try.

impressions:

• milky side is very milky
• tapioca is very chewy (and made to a perfect chewy consistency. it is not too soft or hard, just perfect)
• the "tea" side is good milk tea quality

It certainly pays to be a major milk processor, the milky side is so good... it actually reminds me of milk ice cream in Tokyo!

So... I'm very impressed! These have definitely satisfied my milk tea (bubble tea) craving and I highly recommend them... in fact, they are so good, I might just start getting these in the future (instead of ordering bubble tea)... fingers crossed they come up with more flavours!

Score: 10/10
Website: https://eng.imeifoods.com.tw/products.html (generic product page with no additional information)

Campbell's Cheddar Cheese canned soup short review

This pandemic and mandatory self-quarantine has caused me to explore canned food options. I love canned soups (specifically Campbell's canned soups).

I have always loved Campbell's soups and cheddar cheese... so I was very excited to find this in the grocery store!

the lighting makes it less orange than how it actually is

it isn't exactly rich cheddar like what is in Mac and Cheese. The soup is much more watered down than I thought it would be. The taste is also not as cheesy as I thought it would be, either... it was a bit of a mix between celery, some soup stock, and cheddar. It was very thin (even thinner than their Cream of Mushroom soup).

It is a decent soup, but if you are looking for a cheesy cheddary soup, then this won't satisfy that craving.

Score: 6.5/10
Website: https://www.campbellsoup.ca/product/campbells-condensed-cheddar-cheese/

tip: Frozen Yakult for skin relief

frozen Yakult bottles (in this case, Maeil Biofeel bottles)

How is everyone holding up during this pandemic? I'm in my 6th week of self-quarantine and counting. 

This trick is so good I had to post it to both my blogs... (the one in https://cutiepiestephanie.blogspot.com/ will come out in a few days)

The Story

I woke up one day and noticed my skin dry, red and swollen. Small bumps were formed on my skin and I panicked. 

I knew my skin wanted something cold so I checked my freezer. The moment I opened the freezer door, two frozen Yakult bottles caught my attention.

I decided to roll them across my face and my skin loved it. 

The redness slowly disappeared, the small bumps flattened and my swelling slowly went away. Although it did not help with my dryness (other than putting the moisture from the bottles against my face) it did help prepare my skin to absorb products!

Instructions:

Freeze two Yakult bottles (make sure it is 100% frozen) and roll them up and down on your face. The cold surface will help get rid of redness, swelling and relax your skin. It only takes a minute to see results!

I usually use two hands but I had to use one of them to hold my phone and take the picture

I've been doing this for a few days now, and my skin feels amazing :D

Self-Quarantine thoughts

How is everyone holding up during this challenging season? I hope you are staying at home and being safe. I'm currently on self-quarantine and enjoying quiet time with family. I get worried (and it is ok to be worried or scared) over the growing number of cases per day... but I know this too shall pass.

things we have survived

Look at this list of accomplishments! We will make it through!

 Here is Japan's Quaran-chan to help you make it through and encourage you to stay home :)

with love,

Steph

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

Thai Crispy Monthong King Durian short review

I highly recommend these if you are a durian fan! 

These are freeze-dried durian bites that give you a full blast of durian once it melts in your mouth! (I am not sponsored... I just really like them! :P) There is a reason why Monthong King (type of Durian which is one of the best in the world) is so premium.

The only con is if you buy them online, they are quite pricey. I got this small packet for $7.95 USD.

It means it costs almost $1 USD for a piece.

But, if you are a huge durian fan and know the difference between good/premium durian and average durian, this will be a great treat!

score: 8/10

website: no website

eBay link (Canada eBay): https://www.ebay.ca/itm/Freeze-Dried-DURIAN-Monthong-Thai-King-Fruit-Naturally-Snack-30g-1-06oz/272666127915?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649

Hong Tra Hoa Hong Rose Black Tea mini review

a friend got a pack of this rose black tea from Vietnam

the instructions are very simple

impressions:

• tastes exactly like rose tea
• it was a bit "rough" (not smooth... if you drink tea, you will know what I mean)

score: 6.5/10

website: no website

Eveline Cosmetics Slim Extreme review

I bought this in HK's Sasa a while back for $115 HKD ($14.80 USD).

Claims:

Firmer and tighter looking skin Slims the silhouette, effective on waist, buttocks and thighs 

Warming up effect ensures maximum results

Product Description:

The first Thermo Active Cellulite Serum developed in the laboratory of Eveline Cosmetics visibly reduces the appearance of cellulite by treating the affected area, and smoothing the skin's surface. Thanks to the technologically advanced Thermo Active formula, it delicately warms up the skin, enabling instant penetration of active substances in to the epidermis, assuring maximum results. 

Instructions:

Use regularly to make skin smooth, and reduce cellulite appearance. 

Ingredients: 

Aqua/Water, Cetearyl Alcohol/Ceteareth-20, Mineral Oil, Isopropyl Myristate, Petrolatum / Cholesterol / Cetearyl Alcohol , Dimethicone, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Cetyl Alcohol , Octyldodecanol, Caffeine, Sodium Polyacrylate, Caffeine/ Sodium Salicylate/ Lecithin/ Silica, Centella Asiatica, Ginkgo Biloba Extract, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract, Water / Butylene Glycol / Laminaria, Hyperborea Extract , Hyaluronic Acid, Vanillyl Butyl Ether, Phenoxyethanol / Methylparaben / Butylparaben / Ethylparaben / Propylparaben, DMDM Hydantoin, Fragrance, Disodium EDTA Ingredients: Aqua/Water, Cetearyl Alcohol/Ceteareth-20, Mineral Oil, Isopropyl Myristate, Petrolatum / Cholesterol / Cetearyl Alcohol , Dimethicone, Glycerin, Propylene Glycol, Cetyl Alcohol , Octyldodecanol, Caffeine, Sodium Polyacrylate, Caffeine/ Sodium Salicylate/ Lecithin/ Silica, Centella Asiatica, Ginkgo Biloba Extract, Hedera Helix (Ivy) Extract, Water / Butylene Glycol / Laminaria, Hyperborea Extract , Hyaluronic Acid, Vanillyl Butyl Ether, Phenoxyethanol / Methylparaben / Butylparaben / Ethylparaben / Propylparaben, DMDM Hydantoin, Fragrance, Disodium EDTA

I can't say I'm surprised to see the number of ingredients listed as the scent is quite overwhelming.

For the past month, I have been using this 3-4 times a week. I use a liberal amount each time and started seeing results in 2 weeks.

I recorded the pros and cons I observed during the month

pros:

• works, it made my body feel much firmer. I started feeling and seeing the results after 2 weeks
  
• while I wasn't a fan of the scent, it did not linger on my body
  
• it works particularly well on my legs and thighs
  
• it got rid of some of the cellulite on my butt
  
• the lotion/cream felt very light on my skin

cons:

• be very aware if you have sensitive skin. Towards my second week, Eczema which has disappeared from my body for over 10 years started re-appearing. While it works and does an amazing job firming up your skin, know the consequences... my advice is to use it once a week on areas that are more sensitive.
  
• more does not mean better. I find the more I try to layer on, the more watery it becomes... literally like water
  
• I didn't feel any warming effect

Verdict:

While it certainly works on my legs and thigh and got rid of some of the cellulite on my butt, it didn't do much for other parts of the body (arms, waist, etc). It is a good price for something that can be used temporarily if you were to attend a certain event and needed some firming in a short time but wouldn't suggest long term as it isn't good for people with sensitive skin.


Score: 7.8/10
Website: https://www.evelinecosmeticsusa.com/collections/eveline-cosmetics/products/cellulite-cream-fat-burner-thermo-active

Billy Bee Honey Roasted Peanuts review

Just so you know what to expect for this review, Planters can have been my all-time favourite peanuts in a can. That bar is hard to reach.

My family bought these Billy Bee Honey Roasted Peanuts at a local grocery store and sent them to me. I did some research and learned that Billy Bee is a Canadian honey farm/company based in Alberta, Canada.

To my utmost surprise, I REALLY liked them. The peanuts were, unlike most other non-Planter brands, very fresh.

impressions:

• crispy and fresh
• not overwhelmingly sweet
• light snack
• addictive
• peanuts were of high quality (for peanut lovers you KNOW what I am talking about)
• the honey/sugar formed a light and crispy shell with just the amount of sweetness
• sweet but not overwhelming (keep in mind, I was born in Toronto and I am living in Japan, so I know what is sweet and what is TOO sweet)

For the sweetness factor, I would say it is very light... even for Japanese standards. For comparison, the Japanese Tohato roasted caramel corns are WAY sweeter than these peanuts. 

score: 8.5/10
website: https://www.helloflavour.ca/en-ca/our-brands/billy-bee/products/other-products/honey-roasted-peanuts

fixx Stem Cell Serum review

fixx Stem Cell Serum

One of my friends introduced me to this brand and as an adventurist, I was excited to give it a try.

fixx is a Singaporean brand which focuses on solution-oriented products. They use plant-based ingredients.

After some convincing from their brand ambassadors, this serum was the only product that appealed to me. (I wasn't a fan of their makeup).

This Stem Cell Serum claims to nourish and hydrate for smoother-looking skin.

For 27ml, I paid $15 (which isn't bad... but the most important is does it work).

the directions and warnings

This serum utilizes the marine stem cells Mitostime and Phyko AI-PF to support a healthy environment for the stem cells in your skin. 

According to the clinical evidence, these two ingredients can stimulate new skin cell production and work together with your skin's collagen.  This helps to rejuvenate the look of skin for a youthful-looking appearance.

Directions are simple:

1. apply a dime-size amount to dry face after cleansing and toning in the morning and evening
2. Massage into skin using a circular motion until the serum is absorbed.
3. May be used under a moisturizer or sunscreen.

It claims it is excellent for the eye area.

The warnings are:

• For external use only.
• Avoid contact with eyes.
• If eye contact occurs, rinse well with warm water. If irritation occurs, discontinue use. 
• Keep out of the reach of children.

There is no list of ingredients. The ambassador told me that it is all-natural, and should only contain serum extracted from plants.

this serum moved into the "black" side after I tilted it

impressions:

• hate the container... why is it in a cheap plastic bottle? Most serums I use are either in glass or high-quality plastic
• the serum smells like glue
• the serum was so runny that even in the dropper, it slid down the tube to the spongy part
• it didn't make a difference to my skin (I used this religiously for 2 weeks)
• I saw no difference in the eye area.
• It seemed like it was natural, I didn't feel any skin irritations 
• it does not do what it claims to do

the serum is very runny

To say the least, I was quite disappointed.

score: 5/10 (It is better to have a serum than none...  and  it didn't feel like it had anything artificial inside)
website: no website

7-Eleven's "Sausage" and Egg Muffin review

For those who follow or know me, you will know how much I LOVE Sausage egg English Breakfast Muffins. This is one of the reasons why I would wake up early just to go to McDonald's to get their Sausage and Egg McMuffin.

So... which I was at my local 7-Eleven, you can imagine my excitement when I found a stash of Sausage and Egg Muffins in their refrigerator section... I got VERY excited!

I asked the 7-eleven staff to heat it in the microwave, and this is what it looked like. 

so the first problem I noticed was the piece of "sausage" wasn't sausage but ham... :(... my second problem was that the muffin wasn't very fresh.

unfortunately, I didn't really like it... :(

score: 5.5/10
website: no website, couldn't find the product on their website

National Azabu Supermarket review

I finally found this place!! A lot of bloggers/vloggers/friends have recommended I check out this place

I liked how the announcements were all made in English and everyone in the store understands English. While it was small, it did feel they have A LOT of items.

I was a bit disappointed though, while there was a lot of imported food... I found they lacked a lot of the foods I miss. They had a lot of cereals, pie crusts, wine, etc. I felt they lacked the dry pasta, sauces, etc.

If you are looking for a good imports supermarket, I highly recommend Seijo Ishii, Kaldi Coffee, and Picard which can be found around the city, they have a better and more practical selection.

National Azabu has a lot of good DIY baked goods (so it works if you have an oven and are adventurous)

They have English Breakfast muffins all year round... this is something I really appreciate.

Score: 7.5/10
Website: http://www.national-azabu.com/

Tohato's Beef ザクホル review

A word of caution before I start the review, these have scared me several times... once you open the bag, it literally smells like there is something burning (literally smells like a fire somewhere in the building), so please be careful... 

Since I can hardly read Japanese, I thought these, like the pork horumon snack was the real "beef horumon". They aren't. They are only made out of wheat, flour, oil, etc.

there weren't a lot in the bag... but since I didn't like the taste, I thought that was already too much... also... they make it seem like there's a fire somewhere in the building.... VERY SCARY!

they look cute, but they aren't what I thought they were... only crisps that are "supposed" to be like cow organs... only they taste nothing like the real thing... 

score: 2/10

Compact Perfume Vial review

from a company's instagram story

I bought one of these perfume vials 5 years ago. I was very excited, but I don't have it anymore... and you will see why after this review

pros:

• handy
• easy to bring your favourite perfume with you
• easy to use
• only suitable for pump types of perfume

cons:

• perfume reside stays
• cannot clean
• leaks
• does not keep perfume fresh
• does not keep perfume scent in the bottle
• cannot "open" vial

In a nutshell, it does what it says but there are a lot of problems that follow. I found it frustrating how the perfume was always leaking (the leak wasn't obvious at first, but then you start noticing your perfume everywhere especially in your bag and you will notice how you are only left with half a vial left overnight).

classified: gimmick

score: 6/10

website: no website

Cafe Bon Shinjuku (自家焙煎珈琲 凡) review

One of my ex-colleagues introduced this place to me and it has quickly become one of my favourite go-to cafes in Tokyo. 

The concept behind this cafe is the owner of the shop will choose a cup that matches what you are wearing or your personality. Every cup is different as he has traveled the world collecting teacups, so there is a story behind every cup. 

I love the ambiance of this cafe, it is perfect to go to on a cold or hot afternoon (it is both cozy and cooling). The place reminds me of the tea party from Alice in Wonderland. (I couldn't take pictures but managed to do an instagram story. (see youtube link or access below)

The tea/coffees are a bit on the pricey side (approximately ¥1500-2000 per cup). But you can stay as long as you want. On weekdays when the cafe is not busy, you can chat with the owner and learn about his adventures.

score: 8.9/10
website: https://cafebon.crayonsite.net/
address: 3 Chome-23-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku City, Tokyo 160-0022, Japan
自家焙煎珈琲 凡