Revlon Ultra HD White Matte Lipcolor Obsession review

product

Revlon has been heavily marketing this product all over Tokyo. It was quite hard to avoid seeing it so I gave in and decided to test it out. I chose Obsession because I am a big fan of pink lip colours.

applicator

claims:

Revlon's Ultra HD Matte Lip Color is a lightweight, high definition, matte color with a moisturizing velvety feel.

Benefits:

100% wax-free, gel formula
Plush velvety applicator
Creamy mango and whipped vanilla fragrance
Many high definition shades to love

ingredients:

Dimethicone, Isohexadecane, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Isododecane, Vinyl Dimethicone / Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Silica, C30-50 Alcohols, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Diisostearyl Malate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Tocopheryl Acetate, Bis-(C12-14 Alkyl PPG-4) Hexamethylenediurea, Kaolin, Bismuth Oxychloride, Silica Silylate, Parfum (Fragrance), Methicone, Sodium Saccharin, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, BHT, Benzoic Acid, Limonene, Linalool. May Contain: Mica, Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, 77492, 77499), Blue 1 Lake (CI 42090), Red 6 Lake (CI 15850), Red 7 Lake (CI 15850), Red 27 (CI 45410), Red 27 Lake (CI 45410), Red 28 (CI 45410), Red 28 Lake (CI 45410), Red 33 Lake (CI 17200), Yellow 5 Lake (CI 19140), Yellow 6 Lake (CI 15985).

with and without the tint

first impressions:

• contains A LOT of ingredients @.@
• colour pay off is incredibly high
• applicator was really helpful to spread the product
• colour is extremely vivid
• the product is very thick
• weird/artificial sweet coconut smell (it says it has a mango and whipped vanilla fragrance)
• rubs off easily (transferable)
• easy to spread product
• not matte
• gives a flawless finish

vividness of this lip color

I am quite in love with product... but I would still prefer using my Just Bitten Kissable Lip Balm because this product is slightly too thick for comfort (contrary to it's claim of lightweight). When I apply it, it is hard to pretend I am not wearing anything on my lips because I can feel it. It is extremely transferable because it does not fully dry. It felt like I was wearing layers of lip stick... that being said, I was impressed with the colour it produced and I was surprised how long lasting it was. It also does not tint nor stain lips at all.

after drinking a whole cup of coffee

Pros:

• hydrates lips
• sturdy container
• gives a flawless finish
• easy to spread product
• the applicator glided the product on smoothly
• colour lasts for a long time (even after food!)
• colour pay off is high and vivid
• no lip tinting or staining (this can be a pro or con)

Cons:

• transferable
• not matte
• strange artificial smell (can be a good or bad thing... I wasn't a fan of the smell)
• doesn't fully dry
• despite it not drying, if you aren't careful and make a mistake, it is hard to correct because of the thickness of the product
• sticky
• very thick
• not lightweight at all!!!!

Score: 9/10
Website: http://www.revlon.com/products/lips/lip-color/ultra-hd-matte-lipcolor#309978161028||0

Skin79 Lemon Brightening Mask review

Lemon Brightening Mask

I have finally accomplished my mission!! I have bought and used this Lemon Brightening Mask!! .I can finally say that I have used all 3 of Skin79's Home Self Spa Mask!!! (applause)... 

If you haven't read my reviews on the other masks of this collection, I will repeat: This product contains a box, a sanded glass container and a plastic spoon... one of the reasons I like the plastic spoon is that it makes using and storing this mask much more hygienic... without directly contact with the mask (which is moist read: perfect bacteria growth environment), you will be able to store your mask for a longer time with out it being contaminated. 

Made in Korea

Lemon juice is best known to brighten and whiten our skin... so it made lots of sense for Skin79 to make a Lemon Brightening Mask.

Description:

The mask is effective to such skin as needing management of brightness with Lemon Extract helping dark complexion radiant and bright. Moisturizing ingredients are lightly and softly absorbed in skin without irritation. The Hyaluronic Acid and Phyto Active Complex keeps your dry skin clear and healthy by supplying soothing and moisturizing effect.

Claims:

• Brightens
• Soothing
• Moisturizes
• Softening Skin

sorry for the blurriness... my camera refused to focus!!! >.<

Directions:

After washing take a proper amount and spread all over your face except eye & lip area. Wait 10 - 15 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water. (Use it once or twice a week).

Impressions

• Smells like lemons... The artificial kind
• Dehydrates skin
• Thick
• Some brightening effects 
• test on small section of skin before 

Caution! If you have any wounds or your skin is breaking out or particularly sensitive... wait... DO NOT use it... you will regret as this mask will sting sensitive/broken skin.

pros:

• smells good (if you like artificial lemon flavour... but seriously, who doesn't?)
• effective - my skin felt slightly brightened and plumped
• attractive packaging
• reasonable price
• you don't need a lot to cover your whole face

cons:

• does not really dry up... 
• dehydrates skin
• can be quite messy
• a bit harder to wash off (compared to the rose and seaweed mask)

Do not expect huge results after using this mask... it will not instantly make your skin a few shades lighter... it will brighten it... make sure to apply a moisturizing serum and moisturizer after (your skin will feel dry)

check out my reviews on other Skin79 Masks by clicking here!

score: 7.5/10

website: no website

Clinique full potential lips plump and Shine lip gloss review

product

Clinique has always had wonderful skincare products, this is my first time using their lip product (I seriously didn't know they had such a range of lip products). I gotten myself a few of their lip products. This is the first one I used and tested.

This lip product is a nude type of lip product, it is not meant to be very obvious. You can wear it alone or on top of other lip products. Beware of its stickiness though. It also moisturized my lips too! It is perfect for all occasions and it lasts really long (compared to other lip glosses).

see the difference? it is extremely glossy

Impressions:

• Glossy
• Very sticky
• Surprisingly easy to remove
• Hair is attracted to it
• No scent
• Subtle colour
• long lasting
• moisturizes lips

easy applicator, extremely spongy

Applicator:
The applicator is a soft small spongy wand. I really liked the applicator because I didn't need to reapply (there was enough product to fill up my lips). Unlike other lip glosses, I do not recommend you to use your fingers to apply this product, it makes them EXTREMELY sticky...

easier to see the difference using my 2 fingers

It was probably a bit hard to see the difference on my lips (since the colour is so subtle), you can see the effect a little better on my fingers (not so much more, but better). I was quite happy that Flash (on a camera) wasn't such a big issue when using this product, it only created a little shine (see below image)

Pros:

• very glossy, and shiny
• flash does not make your lips extremely shiny
• good applicator

product taken with flash

Cons:

• very sticky
• attracts hair
• cannot be build able

effects of this lip gloss

I'm actually quite glad the colour is subtle (it actually looks a very obvious brown when you put it on tissue, not sure why it is so subtle on lips). It leaves a smart sleek shine to your lips yet gives it a natural feel (like: is she wearing lip gloss or are her lips really shiny looking kind of look). This product is called "Full Potentials Lips Plump and Shine for a reason, it certainly makes your lips look slightly plump.

score: 9/10

website (couldn't find the exact product on their website, this was the closest one): http://www.clinique.com/product/1603/5342/Makeup/Lip-Glosses/Long-Last-Glosswear

Revlon - just Bitten Lipstain and Balm Frenzy 015 Review

Revlon  Just Bitten Frenzy 015

Since 2012, Revlon has been creating a lot different lines of lip colour products. One of them is this Just Bitten Lipstain and Balm. The interesting part of this product is that it is double sided. One side is the "lip stain" and the other is the "balm" to be honest, I didn't get to make much use out of the balm, it doesn't really moisturize well and makes it harder to apply the lipstain. The balm broke during the first week of using this lipstain so it seemed quite useless to have.

how it looks on my lips 

impressions:

• little colour
• enhances my "dry" lips
• interesting applicator
• too dry
• sweet raspberry smell/taste

Where to buy:

Like most Revlon products, you will be able to find this product at your local drug store (e.g. Watsons, Shoppers Drug Mart, Wegmans, Rexall, Walmart, etc).

Applicator:

marker tip like applicator

the applicator is really interesting, it looks and feels like a marker, so when I apply lipstain, it feels like I'm drawing this product onto my lips.I actually like this applicator because it is really easy to "outline" my lips and then fill in the colour. Unfortuantely, there is a downside to this applicator, despite being like a marker, it's colour is not vivid and the product is constantly dry. it takes a lot of effort and a lot of shaking and patience before you can draw out and "colour" your lips.

Shows too much imperfection of my lips

see the difference, nice subtle colour

I like the raspberry smell and taste to this lipstain but I do not like (as with most lipstains) is that it dries out my lips. The worse part is not drying out the skin on my lips but enhancing the appearance of the dry skin on my lips. You can see from the pictures, my lips were fully chapped (the winter has been harsh to skin with record lows throughout), on the side where I have used this product, instead of hiding the peeled skin, it enhanced their appearance making them look more chapped than they really are.

Precision & waterproof

precision 

The marker makes it a lot easier to make precise lines, but it is hard to "colour" in. The colour is hardly build-able.I always get frustrated because I am not able to make the colour more intense.

attempt to remove it

The lipstain is alcohol based, once you have passed the 3-5 minute mark, it is almost impossible to remove this product... you can compare the before and after pictures. I tried to use water and wipe, it just wouldn't come off. This is good if you are heading out, people will never know your secret to redder lips.

Conclusions and Verdict:
I really like the applicator, not so much the colour. I haven't had a chance to try the other colours in this line. The Lipstain is perfect if you plan to go out for a very long time (e.g. shopping, lunch, dinner, partying etc) because the colour does not really wear off (good for almost 5-8 hours).  However, because the product's colour is not strong and shows the "imperfection" of my lips, I do not really like to wear it too much. Instead, I have decided to make it into a "lip liner" to create outlines when I need to "draw a specific shape" on my lips.

score: 5.5/10

website: http://www.revlon.ca/Revlon-Home/Products/Lips/Lipcolor/Just-Bitten-Lip-Stain-Balm.aspx

Skin79 Rose Moisture Mask review

Skin79 Rose Moisture Mask contents

Happy New Year!!!

Either you are working hard to meet year end deadlines or you simply have been partying (a lot? *wink), either way, our skin must be tired from all those layers of make up or having the need to staying up so late, not to mention stress. And if you are living in a place where it is currently winter, your skin must have been drying from the dry weather or heaters. Good thing, we have masks to help us moisturize and relieve our dry and tired skin! My new year's resolution this year is to have better skin than I do now. Currently, I think my skin is in good condition, but there are still areas that are fairly dry, I hope by this time next year, those dry areas will be fully moisturized and smooth! What is your New Years Resolution?

It is quite fortunate I was able to receive this Skin79 Rose Moisture mask in time for this post! Let's put another Skin79 product to the test! This is the way to end the year... with a Skin79 product review!

The product contains a box, a sanded glass container and a plastic spoon. I really like the idea of using a plastic spoon. It is extremely hygienic, by keeping your mask clean, you can store it for a longer time without worrying about bacteria growing inside (eww).

Tagline: HYDRATING MASK FOR DRY AND TIRED SKIN. This mask contains refreshing rose petals, delivering the moisture and vitamins of rose petals to dehydrated skin to moisture skin from the inside to help maintain resilient and lively skin.

photo credits: official site

After you have cleansed your face, apply a thick layer of mask to the skin. Leave on for 20-25 minutes* then wash off with warm water. *the instructions say 10-15 minutes, but I like to leave it on longer, it seemed to be more effective if you leave it on longer.

ingredient list

The QR Code brings you to the Korean Official website of this product. (http://m.skin79.com/product/product_view.asp?proNo=00096 but for some reason, only mobile phones can access this page only). I was slightly shocked at the list of ingredients, how can there be so many!

inside of container

The moment you lift the cover, you can smell rose petals (like rose tea). Don't let the name fool you, if you look closely at the ingredients, you will notice that besides rose petals, there also contains Cocoa, Licorice, and extracts from cucumber and aloe. These ingredients will help moisturize and make your skin feel soft.

close up of the product, see the rose petals. This is all you need to cover your whole face, you can use more if you like

if you take a close up look at the product, you will find that there are bits of rose petals contained inside the mask. The mask does not require you to use a lot of product, just a liberal amount. It may seem unrealistic, but when I scooped out half a spoonful (the spoon that they provide), it was enough product to cover my whole face. However, I suggest that if you really need intense hydration, you should use a bit more.

Benefits to skin:

• purifies and Moisturizing
• Toning and tightening
• Hydrating
• Softening
• relaxing
• stimulating

pros:

• smells good (literally like rose)
• effective - my skin felt hydrated, moisturized
• attractive packaging
• reasonable price
• easy to wash off
• you don't need a lot to cover your whole face

cons:

• feels sticky when it is on your face (even when dried)
• more effective during "milder" summer and spring months*

*Sadly, as good as it is. It is not very effective nor having a lasting effect during harsh winter months in North America. It does help to put more product on, but the effect is not as lasting as I have hoped.

rating: 8/10

check out my reviews on other Skin79 Masks by clicking here!

website: http://www.skin79northamerica.com/index.php?option=com_virtuemart&page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=93&vmcchk=1&Itemid=53

UPDATE:
website:: http://www.skin79.com/eng/product_eng?id=12&prdno=0000001183

Skin79 Seaweed Cooling Mask review

I was waiting very impatiently for this to come in the mail. I am just so grateful for this mask. In Fact, I think I like everything that Skin79 makes (so far). 

It's tagline is a "Home Self Spa Mask", I have actually never been to a spa before, so I don't know what my skin should feel like after a spa treatment... but, if my skin can feel THIS good, I am definitely up for visiting a spa one day.

According to it's website it claims this mask is a

COOLING MASK THAT PROVIDES COOL, FRESH MOISTURE. The abundant moisturizing properties of this overnight cooling mask that can e felt the moment it touches the skin has excellent calming properties that quickly renews tired skin.

This is a very versatile mask, it can be a 10-15 min mask or a sleeping mask. 2 masks in one! It also works for all skin types. Isn't that cool (pun intended)?

photo source: http://www.skin79northamerica.com

The colour of the container was very attractive... who can resist this blue? But the gel is just clear, no colour to it. I also am impressed by how they also provided a "spoon" so you can scoop up the contents without contaminating the mask.

please excuse the messy background 

This is how Skin79 describes this mask:

This moisture supplying mask full of as cool moisture as it was dipped from the ocean, is fit for those who have brittle, sensitive and thin skin. With Fucus vesiculous extract containing minerals and Allantoin in addition to Aloe extract, which is prominent in skin soothing effect, this gel type content promptly has soothing and moisturizing effect on skin as well as maintains the skin healthy by providing freshness and sufficient moisture.

Product is recommended for dry and sensitive skin types.

How to Use:

After cleansing and apply a thick layer of mask to the skin avoiding eye and lip area.

Rinse thoroughly after 10-15 minutes with lukewarm water.

Pack Size - 75ml

I fell in love with this mask at first use. The scent wasn't strong but it certainly reminds me of the smell of the ocean (don't know why). I guess my skin was exhausted due to recent weather changes, so when I applied this mask, I could feel my skin relax a bit. My skin felt a cool sensation later (not a minty kind of cool, more like ocean wind blowing in your face kind of cool).

I am obsessed with the packaging

First things I realized when I washed off the mask was that my skin was smooth... my skin wasn't moisturized  but it was very very smooth... like every mask we remove and wash off, I had to apply toner, moisturizer. I think the skin on my face was relaxed.

pros:

• smell
• effective - my skin felt so smooth
• attractive packaging
• reasonable price
• easy to wash off
• cools my face (which is what it should be doing)

cons:

• does not moisturize too well, (it does a great job "cooling" my skin though)

check out my reviews on other Skin79 Masks by clicking here!

website: http://www.skin79northamerica.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=91&category_id=32&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=53

UPDATE: website changed to: http://www.skin79.com/eng/product_eng?id=12&prdno=0000001183

Missha Super Aqua oxygen micro visible deep Cleanser review

What is this product?

short summary from Ebay (where I purchased this product)

• Cleanse dirts in pores with oxygen auto micro bubble system and get the clear skin with deep cleansing.
• O2 complex is composed of the purification plant such as Sanseveria to vitalize the tired skin condition. It makes moist skin by boosting effect through a massage.
• Swiss Alpine herb extract protects the sensitive skin with mild cleansing.
• Apply proper amount (2-3 pumps) on DRY face. Wait 30~40 sec for enough bubble, and massage gently from lip & eye area to all over face. Wash off with lukewarm water.

szzzzz... I love the sound of bubbles/foams forming, what better than to have these szzzz chiiiiiii sounds on your face while feeling them clean your pores? exactly, nothing else.

This cleanser is surprising gentle to my face. I didn't feel it stripping "everything" from my face... You must have a lot of patience using this cleanser, the first time I used this, I wasn't reading the instructions (oops) and it didn't really clean my face too well... (I thought when if the bubbles formed, then my face should be cleaned, but that is not the case)... the 30-40 second wait is a MUST, and it is worth it, you can feel the szzzz (!? how do you spell these sounds?) bubble start to form in your pores (it sounds cool doesn't it?), those "bubbles" can give you a slight itchy feeling though.

photo credits: missha.co.nz

This is a cleanser that is considered "strong" so please put on serum/moisturizer on your skin right after you wash this stuff away... your skin will thank you for it. However that being said, I find that this cleanser cleans your pores more than your actual skin... which is good.

I find it particularly strange why I wasn't able to find this product on their official website. I later discovered that this product is only available in New Zealand. The official name of this product is "SA Oxygen Micro Visible Deep Cleanser". I wonder why it is only available in New Zealand, if it is good, they should make it available in other places so others can enjoy it. Thank God for eBay!

---

Steps to using this product

1. Apply an adaquete amount to dry face. They suggest 2-3 pumps, but I guess it really depends on how "dirty" your face is and what amount you are comfortable with, I personally go with 1-2 pumps.

2. You will not really feel anything until after 30 seconds. If you have make up on, once the foam forms, you can put the foam on your lips and eyes (this helps remove the makeup gently).

3.Once you feel the foam has stopped forming and no more "szzzzz" sounds (no more itchiness) massage all of it to clean your "skin" then rinse off.

---

According to it's official website, it does wonders for make up too, since I am not a make up person, I don't really have a chance to try this... but here's an image of what it does to make up.

photo credits: missha.co.nz

Pros:
- really works
- smells really good
- the foam forming feeling, I like the feeling of being able to feel it working
- cleans your pores very thoroughly (did I mention pores?)
- for some strange reason, I really like the container


Cons:
- expensive
- long wait time for it to work!! >.< (you can tell I'm not a very patient person)

website: http://www.missha.co.nz/shop/SHOP+ONLINE/new/SA+Oxygen+Micro+Visible+Deep+Cleanser.html

Missha Hair Treatment Mask (Blue) review

my hair has literally been dead, dry, and there was no more elastin to them anymore. I knew I needed immediate care, I have tried some of the oil treatments offered at salons, but they only had a temporary effect.

While searching on eBay I came across a hair mask by Missha, because I was so desperate I decided to give this product a try.

Since I am an absolute newbie, my review might be slightly biased, as this is the ONLY hair mask I have EVER used.

Pros:
- hair definitely feels firmer, more elastic and shinier
- smell is quite good (but I don't like that little bit of mint there)
- seeing results after using it a few times
- do not have to apply product on hair for a long duration (only 3 minutes)

Cons:
- takes a lot of patience to remove this product (if you don't remove everything out, you will have an itchy scalp)
- bottle does not last very long (despite being 150 g), I have used this product for about 3 weeks now and I have used half the container.


I think this hair mask is a fair product, most important is that it works! The Price is also quite reasonable however I thought it would last must longer. I do plan to buy this in the future again!

official website: http://www.missha.co.nz/shop/SHOP+ONLINE/BODYHAIR/Hair+Care/-12007.html

Missha Crystal Nail Polish Review

I have always been a big... HUGE fan of sparkly nail polish. I think it is essential for every girl to find the right swatches for their nails, because there is nothing sexier than having hands with nails in the right

Missha's Crystal Nail Polish is really good. The swatch I bought is SHOCKING POP NO.2/PINK

Pros:
- dries VERY fast (this is one of the biggest advantages, I admit, I am not a patient person, and waiting for my nails to dry can be a very tedious task)
- the smell is a bit floral, unlike most nail polishes which leave a nasty acetone smell
- the size of the brush is much MUCH wider than most nail polishes I have used in the past, this made it MUCH easier to apply the nail polish.
- big cap, the cap was big (in a size of a heart), this made it easier for my fingers to wrap around the cap to apply the nail polish on.

Cons:
- easy to chip off
- need double coat (or the "colour" does not really show up well)
- Top Coat is a MUST (and even with top coat, the nail polish easily chipped off after a few days of applying)

Overall, I think this is a good nail polish, however I am really disappointed at how easily it chips off. The coat only lasted for 5 days and it started chipping off.

official website: http://www.misshaus.com/ctrl.php?page=ctgProduct&ctg=ADA

Sulwhasoo First Care Serum review

At this moment, I consider this serum my favourite of all favourite serums!

When you first use it, it smells like ginger mixed with some oriental herb. I was skeptical, it didn't "feel" like the other serums I used, it felt more like a watery gel, when I pumped it out, it was sticky, quite like "syrups" (or agave honey, if you know the texture of that)... it was easy to spread to my face and my skin immediately absorbed all that I put on (by the way, just a thin layer, never apply too much serum on your face, it can cause breakouts and other skin problems).

To be honest, I couldn't feel the difference at first, I applied this at night right before I went to sleep. When I woke up the next morning and went to wash my face, I immediately felt how soft my skin felt, it was... AMAZING... my skin felt so "perfect". It was definitely firmer, smoother and softer.

I went on their website and learned more about this product: the website says:

"

Formulated with Korean medicinal herbs, this essential regimen boosting serum assures optimal skin care results, promoting balance and replenishing essential moisture and nutrients.

- Membranous Milkvetch promotes natural skin circulation and Dwarf Lilyturf and Licorice boost synergy among herbal extracts to restore skin’s natural healthy radiance. 
- Absorbing instantly and deep within the skin, this serum leaves the skin soft, smooth and supple, prepares skin to receive treatment and boosts the efficacy of skin care used throughout the regimen.

"

I think it definitely lived up to its claims!

This serum might be a bit pricey, but it is definitely worth it, I have used this serum for about a month and definitely left a difference, I also noticed that although I have already used it for a month, I have only used about 6 ml of the product, this stuff lasts long! It might feel "expensive" but once you have it, you will learn to love it!

official website: http://www.sulwhasoo.com/beauty/beauty_tips.jsp

Neutrogena Oil-free fresh moisture review

I was planning to do a review on this moisturizer however, after some research I discovered Neutrogena has discontinued this product. Such a shame! But for those of you who still have this product or you can manage to get this product (somehow) I will do a brief review on this product. I was told that Neutrogena has "improved" this product and replaced it with these as shown in this link. I haven't tried these out yet so I'm not sure how similar/different they are with this product.

I haven't really used Neutrogena products and this moisturizer gives me a reason to buy their products. This moisturizer, Neutrogena oil-free fresh moisture, is marketed as ultra-light moisturizer; leaves skin fresh and soft all day; A light moisturizer that provides optimal hydration for fresh, soft skin all day long.

To me, this moisturizer was "love at first application". The reason being is it is extremely lightweight and it is not greasy. It leaves a wonderful "matte finish" on your skin and makes it so easy to apply make up over it. And that is one of my primary uses for this moisturizer, as I treat it as a light "primer" for my pre-makeup face. It has a light scent to it (but it doesn't feel too artificial). My pores are very sensitive and if they are "clogged" with lotion, I instantly feel my skin breaking out, LUCKILY, I can confidently say it doesn't clog pores. It is water-based so it is very easy to spread (a little goes a long way - the directions indicate you should just apply a dime-sized amount and it will cover your whole face).

Unfortunately, this product didn't make my skin any softer than it was, it helped retain the moisture already present on my face but it didn't make it anymore hydrated (as it claims).

I find that due to it's lightness, this moisturizer is very good for those with normal to oily skin (as it doesn't clog your pores and wouldn't make your face more greasy than it already is). I find it works good during Spring/Summer and not so well during the harsh Fall/Autumn/Winter months.

Clinique Repairwear Laser Focus serum review

I have decided to grab this image straight from Clinique's official site since the pictures I took of it didn't seem to look good at all (not appealing), let alone posting them on Instagram.

The Serum is called Clinique repairwear laser focus - wrinkle & UV damage corrector. Although I do not have any wrinkles nor do I go out into the sun too much, I have noticed the significant difference it has made to my skin.

This is officially my favourite serum! I absolutely love how it absorbs into my skin immediately after application and how smooth and soft my skin feels after using it for just 2 days. (I have used this for about a month now, and I love how my skin feels so soft and smooth).

When you first put it on your hand, it feels like milk. Once you apply it on your face your skin instantly absorbs it. What is so amazing about this serum is after you have applied it to your skin it only takes a few minutes for your skin to feel so soft and smooth.

Though it is marketed for those with wrinkles or UV damaged skin, (I have neither of these) I didn't feel it being too strong for my dry skin (and other blemishes, which it did help me get rid of!). Unfortunately, it doesn't help you get rid of large pores.

I highly recommend this serum for those with really dry skin as it does make your skin feel so hydrated. But keep in mind it can be a bit pricey. I would recommend this for those who desperately need their skin to be soft and smooth for major events coming up soon (e.g. prom, formal, weddings, etc) as it instantly "fixes" your skin. It also does a great job in fixing "blemishes" and "bumps" on your skin too.

Collagen Hydrating sleeping mask by Watsons review

First off, what are sleeping masks? Sleeping Masks are facial masks which you put on your face before you sleep and wash it off when you wake up. After hearing about these masks I was really excited to give them a try because they seem very cool (imagine wearing a gel mask for 8+ hours!)

see how white the product is? it is transparent when you put it on your face (skin)

I was acquainted with Watsons Collagen mask (屈臣氏骨膠原睡眠面膜, ) while shopping in Hong Kong so I picked it up after hearing about them from various makeup gurus.

As I learned Collagen is a type of ingredient which helps our skin build its firmness and "bounce".  Collagen strengthens skin and gives it elasticity, it also prevents wrinkles (due to aging of skin), you can see the importance Collagen plays in skin care. This mask also hydrates the skin.

I have to say, I haven't had any other sleeping masks, but after using this one, I have to agree that this will be one of my favorite sleeping masks EVER!! Reason being is

1: it smells good (just lightly scented);
2. It is very affordable (I have been using this for over 6 months and there is still A LOT of product left (as         in, I have only used 30% of the product);
3. I have noticed a significant different after using it just for the first time;
4. it is affordable;
5. Time saving (hydrating and taking care of your skin while you sleep!)
6. You can feel the gel working
7. there is definitely more "elasticity" to your skin after using it

With Pros, you will expect there to be Cons, one of the cons I would say (and this is a comment for sleeping masks in general, not just specifically for this product) would be the fear of leaving this product on your pillows, stuff animals, pajamas, blankets, etc. The first time I used this product, I kept panicking and waking up due to the fear of getting this product all over the place... after doing some research online, I discovered that sleeping masks only require you to apply a small amount (as if you are applying face cream/lotion) instead of "large amounts" as you would with other clay/cream masks.

Before bed, put a small amount of product on your face and wash it off the next morning. After using this mask, my skin instantly felt hydrated and smooth, I also noticed the significant change to my skin's firmness, the feeling is very good, I highly recommend you to put on your favorite toner, serum and moisturizer after washing this product off (as you would after using other masks).

Overall, this is a great mask, I using it 2-4 times a month and with each use, I feel my skin feeling healthier and smoother. I would rate this mask 9/10!

Freeman Beauty Facial Anti-Stress Mask Dead Sea Minerals mask review

I have started to like Freeman products especially after liking their Beauty Facial Peel Off Mask. While I was planning to stock up on those, I came across this product and decided to give it a try.

According to the big yellow label this mask was the recipient of 2012 totalbeauty.com Mask award. After using this mask for the first time, I could see why.

First off, a slight warning, when you apply this mask, I would recommend doing this when there are less people around, I was shocked when I applied this mask for the first time, I seriously look like some actress who walked out of an Avatar movie set. The mask is very pigmented (in a weird blue/green colour). Another precaution is don't apply this mask "too close" to the eye area, the mask is "strong" and even when I left "a big circle around my eyes, my eyes were stinging. eeks...

The product is the scent of an ocean, and the texture is clay-like making it easier to smooth out.

On the back of the tube they introduce this mask as a : 

...calming mask [which] instantly absorbs excess oil while clarifying and purging clogged pores. Dead Sea Minerals contain natural supplements that are essential for maintaining healthy skin. Sea Salts help replenish and balance moisture. Lavender and Bergamot promote relaxing aromatherapy.

The instructions asks the user to apply the mask to face and neck

thoughts:

• easy to use
• instantly feel it working (the next day and day after)
• gets rid of excess facial oil

I only applied it to the face. You will know when this product dries because you won't be able to move your face. You use warm water to rinse. To be honest, I didn't feel the difference when I rinsed the mask away, I felt the oil on my skin was taken away, but it was not a very obvious difference. When I woke up the next day, I felt the difference, my skin was so soft and smooth I loved it! 

I think this is a great mask, The instructions ask us to use it 2 times a week, however, since I hardly have much oil, I only use it once ever 2 weeks and that seems enough. I find that if I use it too often (twice a week) my skin starts to break out because I think it takes away too much "oil" from my skin at once.

I would rate this mask 4/5.

Etude House Juicy Cocktail Graduation Nails review

Korean beauty products have come a long way and they have been expanding their product lines to nails as well. This product was purchased in eBay after seeing their attractive posting. In this picture I am wearing my Etude House Juicy Cocktail Gradation Nails #3 Love Violet.

The Etude House Juicy Cocktail graduation Nails series each include 3 colours, for this "purple" one they included: #1 Soft purple (as their base), #2 Romantic Purple (Middle), and #3 Mystery Purple (Top). The instructions are very simple: apply the base to the whole nail, let it dry, than apply the middle to just half of the nail, then wait for it to dry, finally, you will apply the top to only one third of the nail.

One of the advantages of this nail polish set is that they dry very quickly, I am an extremely impatient person and imagine having to wait before you apply the next coat each time... yeah, exactly, tedious!

One of the disadvantages of this nail polish, and I'm not sure why they didn't mention this in the instructions is that due the sparsity of the polish (which makes it very "transparent") I absolutely recommend you to apply at least 2 layers or else you would hardly see any polish on (it will look like you put on some clear nail polish with "some colour").

Another step I recommend is to apply a clear top coat (which was also not mentioned in the instructions). Because of the "layers" you put on, it is inevitable the surface of your nails will be slightly "unleveled". So a top coat is necessary to bring your nail surfaces to be even and smooth.

Freeman Beautiful Facial Peel-Off Mask Cucumber Mask Review

bottle of goodness

Walmart has been stocking up on Freeman's masks, so I decided to give this brand a try. I LOVE IT! The description says this will "clarify and renews skin" and it does exactly that!

This mask is thick gel form, the moment you apply it on your face you will not feel very comfortable however, once it starts drying you will feel it "clearing" your skin.

I would suggest applying a conservative amount (just thick enough to cover your face) I have tried to use less and I wasn't even able to peel it (in the end I had to use warm water to wash it away, and once I used TOO much and it was an absolute disaster waiting for it to dry and peeling it off...

Caution though, when you are peeling do not peel too hard or you can peel off any hair which got stuck in the gel (which can be pretty painful) And you wouldn't want to damage your skin's surface by peeling too hard.

impressions:

• very effective
• suitable for those with out of control skin (due to climate change, stress, etc)
• easy to use
• instant results
• really clarifies and renews

Since my skin is not in a bad condition (not absolutely oily or dry) so I just use this once every 2 weeks when I feel that my skin needs to be clarified and renewed.

Seriously, I was skeptical at first, I never thought a mask product could instantly clarify and renew your skin until I used this product.

Just remember like all masks (especially this one, since it is a peeling mask) you must apply toner, serum/moisturizer after.

update (Jan. 23, 2014):
Just recently, due to climate changes, my skin was oily and dry in some areas... I felt my skin was going crazy: I started getting pimples in some parts of my face and in other parts skin was peeling. After using this mask I got my skin "clarified" and my skin instantly went back to "normal". The next morning I discovered that some of the pimples on my face have already disappeared, my skin stopped producing excess oil and the bumpy dry parts were smoothed.

Try it, because it really works!

rating: 10/10

velcro hair up-er review

Had I not been introduced to these I would not have been able to wash my face, put on make up, or put cream/serum/masks on my face as convenient as I can now. This is a MUST GET item if you have bangs or layered hair.

This may look silly, but it works, and it doesn't pull your hair at all, it simply slips off your hair gently when you are done using it. It is made out of Velcro, so you can reuse it and it is very durable (and most importantly, you can wash it).

For those curious, I got this in Sasa in Hong Kong. I think you can buy these at your local Asian beauty products store or online (like eBay, Yesstyle).

Borghese Revitalizing Face Serum review

While shopping in Costco, this caught my eye... Borghese Revitalizing Face Serum... I thought, why would Borghese be in Costco?

In North America, Borghese does not seem to be as popular as compared to Asia, so after being "brainwashed" in Asia about Borghese, and learning about it's linked to Princess Marcella Borghese and looking at the price tag of this, I had to get a bottle to try for myself.

I haven't had a lot of chances to try serums since I am pretty new to skincare. I would say this is a "mild" serum, suitable for climates/weather which are not extremely dry or harsh on skin.

It has an oily feel when you apply the serum on your face, but after it has been absorbed it becomes matte. The oiliness is good since you can spread the product on your face easier, unfortunately, I find the pump it not very durable, after using it for over a month, it needs to be pulled back up before pumping again, or you can't get enough product.

VS Vidal Sassoon Pro Series Shampoo review

I have decided to grab this image straight from Vidal Sassoon's official site since the pictures I took of it didn't seem to look good at all (not appealing), let alone posting them on Instagram.

The name of this product is long! VS Vidal Sassoon Pro Series - Perfected by Experts, Shampoo Boost and Lift. For the weightless look of pumped up hair

Though the name is long, it is definitely one of my favourite shampoos I have recently used.

This review will be about the Shampoo and Conditioner only, since these are the only products I have used from this collection.

Vidal Sassoon has branded itself quite well in Asia. So after my trip to Asia I decided to look for Vidal Sassoon products. To my luck, Vidal Sassoon (or VS) has started to rebuild itself in America, so I was introduced to different types of VS products while I was shopping around. The Volume version of this shampoo seemed to match well with what I wanted in my shampoo so I decided to get both the shampoo and conditioner.

The reasons why I love this Shampoo so much: it literally cleans your hair, and after your hair drys it smells REALLY nice (not the artificial weird strong smelling shampoo smell... but a very nice gentle smell that makes you feel like you have a very clean head).

The Cons of this shampoo is that you MUST use conditioner, due to it cleaning your hair so well, it causes your hair to dry and if you don't use conditioner, your hair feels so dull. I think that is how shampoos which are "professional" or "perfected by experts" usually are though, they usually dry up your hair and making it so dull... this is based on my experience. So REMEMBER get the conditioner too if you plan to try this product.

I have used this product for about a month already, and I feel that my hair is getting stronger, when I take a strand (?) of hair that has already fallen out, I find that it is harder to "break" into little pieces.

Crest 3D White Whitestrips teeth whitening review

Who wants whiter teeth? I definitely do! After hearing lots of reviews and feedback about this product, I am bound to give this product a try.

Unlike most people, unfortunately, this had definitely made my teeth more sensitive than I thought. After the third day trying this, I would wake up in the middle of the night in pain! Who knew your teeth can feel so much pain? I just tell myself "beauty is pain, beauty is pain".

Luckily, my teeth were less sensitive in the morning, afternoon and evening so I was able to eat and drink. I avoided sour and any food with high acidity just in case it will hurt.

The second night trying this, I was awaken by the pain again, I feel my teeth were so sensitive to the point, swallowing saliva (ok that sounded weird, but we do swallow our saliva... k?) made me feel I was swallowing some "teeth residue" (I don't think that's true, but it felt like that).

And just like the first day, the pain was pretty much gone in the morning and day/evening to follow. Again, there was a little funny feeling like my teeth were bound to hurt if I chewed too hard, but the sensation didn't bother me too much.

The third day: my teeth actually felt much better... HOWEVER, after putting these on... my teeth started to feel so much pain later that night... and the length is much longer... it lasted till morning :(...

I think these have helped my teeth turn a bit whiter (after wearing them consecutively for 3 days) However, I think I need to take a break from them for a while because the sensitivity of my teeth became nearly unbearable.

Some of my friends suggested I try a lower number (the current one is #4), use Sensodyne toothpaste, and other suggested I wear it for less than 30 mins (cut down the duration to only 15-20 mins). I will do that and let you know if that is better either in a future post or an updated version of this post.

Thanks for reading!