Kiehl's Skin Rescuer review

If you are ever looking for a product which fixes your skin after 2 uses (fix=rescue from dryness, redness, itchiness, etc) then this is my highly recommended product! I always end up using this product (every single winter) after failed attempts with other products. It has not failed me so far.

I have been using this product for 2+ years already, and it has saved my skin in two countries, Japan and Canada. 

Product Description:

All Skin Types, including Sensitive Skin A lightweight, daily moisturizer for stressed skin.

Infused with Rosa Gallica Botanical Extract, Mannose and Chamomile, our ultra-light hydrator helps reduce visible signs of stress while delivering all-day hydration for a fresh, radiant and even skin tone. Instantly comfort skin with our daily moisturizer for stressed skin.

Helps diminish visible signs of stressed skin including skin redness and fatigue Instantly comforts skin and helps repair skin’s barrier, leaving it less susceptible to the effects of daily stressors Delivers all-day hydration for well-balanced, healthy-looking skin For stressed and sensitive skin

List of Ingredients:

Aqua/Water, Glycerin, Squalane, Propanediol, Undecane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter/Shea Butter, Tridecane, PEG-100 Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-20 Stearate, Mannose, Lauroyl Lysine, Cetyl Alcohol, Propylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Ammon ium Polyacryldimethyltauramide/ Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Triethanolamine, Carbomer, Tocopherol, P-Anisic Acid, Ectoin, Centella Asiatica Extract, Xanthan Gum, Ceteareth-25, Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester, Rosa Gallica Extract/Rosa Gallica Flower Extract, Hydroxypalmitoyl Sphinganine, Ceramide NP, Behenic Acid, Cholesterol, Ceramide NS, Chamomilla Recutita Extract/ Matricaria Flower Extract, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Ceramide EOS, Caprooyl Phytosphingosine, Caprooyl Sphingosine, Citric Acid, Sodium Hydroxide

(The bolded tests are the key ingredients that differentiated this product from others)

1. Mannose is a sugar sourced from wood pump or Birch and Maple trees which help fortify and protect skin making it less susceptible to daily stress
2. Rosa Gallica Botanical Extract helps minimize skin's visible response to stress
3. Chamomile soothes and comforts the skin

impressions:

• definitely on the pricier side, but it is worth it
• no artificial scents
• very thick (my ever first break-in to product consists 47-50 pumps before I see product)
• two-three pumps is all it takes to cover the whole face
• works well with sensitive skin (no irritations so far)
• lightweight, in a sense your skin absorbs every bit of the product so you don't feel it
• it works well alone (no need for additional products, e.g. serums, oils, moisturizers, toners, etc)
• you don't have to use it every day
• results are long lasting
• does not irritate eyes

Verdict:

As stated, this is my all-time favourite product, It does such a good job, you can apply it with or without other products so it is a great product to travel with. It is a thick cream but at the same time, lightweight since your skin will absorb all the product, there is also no weird or overwhelming scent. 

score: 9.9/10

website: https://www.kiehls.ca/en/skin-concerns/lifting-and-firming/skin-rescuer/1327.html

Lancome Absolue Premiumbx review

 The cold is here and the heater is on... that can only mean one thing, my skin gets super dehydrated... but unlike before, my skin is literally dying... no matter how much moisturizer I use, how much serum I use, how often I clean my face (in a healthy way... twice daily) my skin failed to resurrect.

I found this Lancome Absolue Premiumbx cream lying around in my skincare drawer so I decided to give it a try. To my surprise, it worked really well with my skin! hooray!

This is a cream which claims to regenerate and replenish your skin... my skin gladly complied to it.

Product Description: 

Absolue, our exceptional collection of radiance regenerating skincare. Inspired by Nature, refined by Science. Inspired by 20 years of research on skin stem cells, Lancôme has created Absolue Premium ßx Day Care, specially created to deliver radiance regenerating and moisture replenishing efficacy. The luxurious formula is enriched with naturally derived Pro-Xylane™ and White Iris. The skin looks younger, replenished with moisture with a regenerated radiance

Claims:

• Intensely Moisturizes
• Increases clarity and smoothness
• Repairs visible signs of aging by restoring skin’s essential moisture
• Improves elasticity and firmness
• Diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

impressions:

• scent to way too strong (floral)
• despite not having an SPF content, it has a slight sunscreen smell
• skin feels so plump after using it twice
  
• replenishes dry and dull skin
• glides on very smoothly to skin
• a very little goes a long way (since it is very thick)
• very pricey (for $200 you only get 50ml of product)
• results are not long-lasting
• this product stings my eyes

The only cons are perhaps the price and the scent. I'm usually ok with most scents, but this scent, while having a nice aroma to it, was too strong, it kept me up all night. I was also disappointed that despite the heavy price tag, the results (plumpiness, smoothness, moisturized feeling) are not long lasting at all. I had to use this product at least 3 times a day to keep maintain my skin's plumpiness and smoothness. 

There were a few times where I made the mistake of just applying the product on my face and rubbing my eyes... my eyes were in so much pain... 

While this product does work, I didn't like it as much as I thought I would... and it is not worth the hefty price tag.

score: 7.8/10
website: https://www.lancome.ca/en/skincare/skin-need/anti-aging/anti-aging-cream/absolue-premium-bx/096018101952.html?gclid=CjwKCAiA8ov_BRAoEiwAOZogwWwPV3PFLiHbmZmnB4Zdd0bc3fVjLDQuTqjI--B7MDg3jU351isRLxoCUDkQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

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