December 29, 2014

Products I've Used Up & Reviews #3 - Skincare Empties

I hope every had a lovely Christmas with their loved ones and received everything they wished for! ^__^ Probably my last post for 2014 eeks >.<

Today i'll be writing a empties post~ My mother always nags at me for having "too many products" (oops). So for the last few months, I have been trying to use up my old products asap to reduce the amount there is (and quite frankly so that I can purchase new products xDD). I tried to keep this post mainly drugstore products, although their is the 1 or 2 higher end products. I have a lot more empties accumulated waiting for me to write more empties posts, which I will get round to soon! >.<

minicell Tomato Stem Extract REVITAL PEELING GEL - £7.29

For full review click here* ^_^

Rating: 8/10

Would I recommend?: Definitely! ^^ removes dead cells effectively, more than other peeling gels I have tried - leave the skin soft and smooth.

Superdrug Vitamin E SPF 15 Radiance Eye Cream - £2.99

A simple eye cream with SPF15 - lightweight, slightly hydrates and absorbs quickly. A little goes a long way with this, if you apply too much then you'll end up with a white cast.

Rating: 5/10

Would I recommend?: If you're on a budget, looking for a eye cream with SPF protection to prevent fine lines/ wrinkles and not really concerned about hydration around the eye area then yes.

Clearasil Ultra Overnight Lotion - £6.99

I believe that the Overnight line is now discontinued in the UK, I can't find it anywhere in stores anymore. A shame, since they were the only Clearasil products that worked in my opinion. This one is my 6th tube! It does a brilliant job - cleared up my skin in a small amount of time, I used it regularly even when my skin was clear to maintain it, also to prevent spots. It reduced the redness in my skin too.

Rating: 10/10

Would I recommend?: Most definitely! - inexpensive and does a better job than some high street products I've tried. Reduces spots and redness effectively.

Tea Tree Essential Oil 100% Pure Tea Tree Oil - £1

A standard tea tree oil, work just like the Body Shop one, except that its cheaper huehue. I like that this one is 100% tea tree oil, where as the Body shop one is only 15%. Great for healing up blemishes and prevent future ones!

Rating: 9/10

Would I recommend: Indeed!

Ginvera Green Tea Refreshing Brighten Up Day Cream SPF 15 - £22

For full review click here* ^_^

Rating: 7/10

Would I recommend?: Yes - Great product, especially for summer - refreshes, brightens and protects your skin from UV rays. Contains SPF15 - great for when you're in a rush, as you won't need to apply SPF cream or use on top to add a extra layer of proaction. ^^ Has a bonus sweet and relaxing green tea scent that is lovely.

Lancôme Hydra Zen NeuroCalm Day Cream

This one does not contain SPF15 - I wonder why Lancome has one Hydra Zen with SPF15 and one without. Anyway a great moisturiser; it has a lovely rose scent that is very calming. Its slightly thick, so its not really recommended for those with oily skin. Absorbs into the skin well and smoothes the skin instantly, leaving the skin feeling plumped and healthy. I really like using this moisturiser, especially after waking up with lack of sleep.

Rating: 8/10

Would I recommend?: Yes, smoothes and hydrates the skin really well. However the full size (50ml) is pricey - £39.

Avon Clear Skin Blackhead Clearing Daily Astringent - £4

I decided to purchase this, as its recommend to use astringent if you have oily skin. It has a strong alcohol scent, so if you have sensitive skin, stay away from this. It removes oils effectively, however I found that it does not clear blackheads, which was a disappointment. I like that it contains 2% salicylic acids, as it helps to unclog my pores.

Rating: 6.5/10

Would I recommend?: If you have super oily skin - yes, as this removed oils and residue well. If you're looking for a product to help clear blackheads then no. Also stay away from this if you has sensate skin, as it contains alcohol.

Clearasil Ultra Overnight Wash - £4.99

Love this wash! This helps my skin whenever I have breakouts. I use it to cleanse my face before bed; it works beautifully along with the Overnight Lotion. It works just as well on its own too. The size of my spots were reduced, along with the redness. It usually clears spot(s) in around 5/6 nights.

Rating: 10/10

Would I recommend?: Most definitely! - great price and does the job fantastically.

Have you finished any products recently? ^^

December 22, 2014

The Body Shop Tea Tree Skin Clearing Toner Review

Just like the Body Shop Skin Clearing Facial Wash this is a gift from my bestie Jess~ another thank you <3.

Product Description

"This refreshing toner for blemish skin gives a beautifully matte, skins-free finish."

The toner is made of 2 components; it a has a green liquid and powder that is settled at the bottom of the bottle. You need to shake the bottle, so that both mix together before you use it. Then you simply apply the toner onto a cotton pad to use.

You'll notice a strong tea tree oil and herbal alcohol scent once you open the bottle, I quite like it but some people may find it overwhelming. I found that this toner removed all traces of sebum, makeup and residue that sometimes my cleanser missed. I have oily skin; I noticed that the toner helped keep my skin matte for a 2/3 hours extra and slightly minified the size of my pores. However, I did not see any difference to my blackheads. After a few months of usage, it helped to prevent pimples from popping up.

Overall

This a great toner, its currently the best toner i've tried so far. I really enjoy using this toner, especially in the morning, as the scent and little stingles give a refreshing kick to start the morning. This is definitely one of the products that contributed to clearing my skin, so I will keep repurchasing it a few times until a find a better one. ^.~ I do recommend it to people with oily/blemish skin to, as it does a brilliant job of remove traces, leaving your skin feeling clean and matte for longer. However, I don't recommend this for people with sensitive skin, since it contains alcohol. It may be a bit harsh.

Pros:

Removes all traces of excess sebum, makeup and residue
Helps mattify skin for longer
Helps shrink pores
Does not dry out my skin
Helps prevent pimples

Cons:

Some people may find the strong scent overwhelming
Contains alcohol, so not recommended for people with sensitive skin
Does not get rid of blackheads

Rating: 9/10

Do you use a toner for your skin? ^^

December 12, 2014

Hello Kitty - Sexy Look Hyaluronic Acid Brightening and Moisturising Sheet Mask Review

I brought these adorable mask back when I was in Hong Kong; it comes in a box with 5 sheets. I discarded the box due to luggage space, so apologies there are no photos. >.<

The packaging is just too cute to not purchase, but its also too cute to use! To use the mask, you simply tear open packaging, apply the sheet onto your face for 20 minutes and then remove. The mask has a lot of essence, so it may drip. I personally like to squeeze out the extra essence from the mask into a container for later use.

It has a sweet cotton/floral scent; which I find relaxing. Its quite strong so some people may find it overwhelming. The mask left my skin feeling plumped and hydrated even a few hours after use. However I didn't notice any "brightening" effect. Which is a downside, as I would of loved the product even more.

Pros:

Inexpensive
Kawaii packaging~
Loads of essence
Hydrates skin really well
Does not leave a sticky feeling behind
Do not break out my skin

Cons:

Essence will drip
Did not see any brightening effect

Rating: 6.5/10

Would I recommend?

If you're after hydration, then yes. If you're after whitening results, then no. The mask overall is a nice product, it hydrates the skin really well, however I was quite disappointed with the "brightening/whitening" as there technically was none lol. The product is a nice little treat to have, but its not must have product.

Have you tried any masks recently? ^^

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December 07, 2014

minicell Tomato Stem Extract SLEEPING PACK Review

My 100th post weeee~ Today i'll be reviewing another minicell product~ Sleeping packs are a must must for me during the colder seasons due to my skin breaking out and looking dull from lack of moisture.

Product Description

"Minicell Sleeping Pack is a sleeping pack that supplies ample moisture to rough skin that lacks moisture for smoother and softer skin. Various hydrators, such as sodium hyaluronic acid and polyglutamic acid, leave your skin supple, while organic aloe extracts and camomile extracts relieve stimulation to protect your skin from trouble. Also, tomato callus culture extracts and yeast fermented mistletoe extracts supply moisture and nutrition for healthier skin."

The packing is simple yet sleek. I quite like that it comes in a tube and note a jar, as its hygienic and does not require me to use a spatula. The sleeping pack is suitable for all skin types; it has a soft cotton scent that is calming - lovely scent to relax you before sleep. The consistency of the sleeping pack is thicker than other sleeping packs/mask I have tried - Laneige and Tony Moly's were a light gel, where as minicell's is a heavier slimly gel, I would say like products with snail slim filtrate in. It not does leave a sticky feeling or any residue behind. I feel that due to the thicker constancy, the moisturising factor is pretty good - my skin feels pumped and soft in the morning. I've also noticed that it evened up my skin tone, making my skin appear healthy, which I love. I would love this product even more if it had a whitening function.

Pros:

Suitable for all skin types
Hygienic and convenient packaging - great for traveling
Hydrating
Lovely calming scent
Does not break you out, great for sensitive skin

Cons:

Difficult to get hands on

Rating: 8/10

Would I recommend?

Indeed! ^^ - great affordable product that does the job

Do you have any sleeping packs you would like to recommend? Comment them down below~ ^^

November 30, 2014

Lancôme Hydra Zen Nuit NeuroCalm Night Cream Review

Who doesn't love free travel sized products/gifts along side your purchases? :')

I thought it would be the perfect time to try this cream due to my skin getting slightly drier due to winter. I really enjoy using this moisturiser as it has a lovely subtle rose scent, which gives off a luxury feel. The consistency of the cream is slightly thick, but it absorbs really well into the skin and does not leave a greasy feeling behind. I apply the cream after cleansing my skin, before going to bed. It hydrates and soothes my skin nicely, reducing the redness in my skin instantly after application. My skin looks and feels plump and healthy in morning, like I had good night sleep.

Pros:

Great packaging
Hydrates
Smoothes
Lovely rose scent

Cons:

Full size is pricey! £41 for 50ml

Rating: 9/10

Would I recommend?

Most certainly! A luxury product that does the job of hydrating and soothing skin fantastically!

Super quick review due to procrastination (oops). Which moisturiser(s) have you been using or trying out recently? ^^

November 26, 2014

KDrama OTTD #1: My Lovely Girl 내겐 너무 사랑스러운 그녀 Yoon Se Na Inspired

It's been over one year already since I did a fashion post inspired by KPop/KDramas! >.< My sincere apologies. I'm going to try post more KPop or KDrama inspired fashion posts since makeup doesn't interest me as much nowadays. >.<

I am currently watching My Lovely Girl; I adore the clothing in the drama to bits! Krystal Jung is already one of my fashion influence so of course I had to do a inspired look~ ^.^

Yoon Se Na's fashion is very similar to Krystal's real life fashion, which is what I love! The long coats and casual formal wear. In the drama she had a navy blue coat and blazer. I tried to find something similar; but only managed to find a cobalt blue from TopShop. >< UK clothing just isn't that nice ahhh.

I used the pictures below for reference~

Outfit Details:

Coat: Topshop
Top: H&M
Pencil Skirt: PopArt
Flatforms: New Look

Hope you guys like my take on it ^^

November 23, 2014

KPop Diet #12: Lee-Hi's Pre-debut and Porridge Diet

It is not revealed as what Lee Hi ate for her diet, as she selected foods from a menu that her coach and nutritionist came up with. However she did follow a timetable of when of to eat.

Lee Hi's Diet Timing

Breakfast at 10am
Lunch at 1pm
Dinner at 4pm

If she was hungry throughout the day then the snacks she ate was - half sweet potato and 3 cherry tomatoes.

She did the diet along side 3 different exercises.
Her results at the end of diet - lost 6kg in total, more energy and feels stronger.

Although the foods are not revealed, I think she may have been on the same diet Akdong Musicians had during their pre-debut.

On YG's twitter Lee Hi is also seen eating pumpkin porridge, which may be part of her diet or a porridge other people say.

Personally I like Lee Hi's diet, its very consistence and nutritious. I like the sound of the sweet potato since I have a sweet tooth. >.< I haven't tried pumpkin porridge before, but it sounds really nice. ^__^

What do you think of this diet? ^^

November 15, 2014

My Motivation / Study Treat Haul~ #1

My workload is beyond overwhelming; so whenever I complete a task, I purchase things I want or pretty things I see to reward myself. ^__^ Can be an expensive habit, but this is the method I use to motivate myself. xD So once in a while I'll probably make a "Motivation / Study Treat Haul". (I need a better name. xD) There isn't much items this month, since i've been procrastinating a lot. >.< But here it is~

IZZI Slim iPhone 5/5s Camera Case 4 in 1 Lens - White

This was on my Beauty & Fashion Wishlist #1. I always have wish lists, but funny enough its not often I end up purchasing items from them. xDD My hubby purchased this for me as a surprise, so massive massive thank you~ ^__^ <3

SEVENTEEN - Smoulder Gel Eyeliner
L'Oreal - Colour Riche Nails - 851 Nouvelle Vague and 842 Sequin Explosion
Nail Paint by Barry M - Aquarium Collection Atlantis Glitter
Maybelline Colour Elixir - 060 Nude Illusion

Schwarzkopf - got2b Oil-licious Weightless Dry Oil Mist
Eucerin - Demo Purifyer Hydrating Care
Yes to Cucumbers - Daily Calming Facial Moisturiser
Lancôme - Hydra Zen Nuit

What methods do you use to motivate yourself? ^^ Tell me below~

November 11, 2014

Garnier Nutrisse Crème - Deep Burgundy 4.26 Review

As mentioned in my Attack on Titan Makeup post; I was going to dye my hair again. The colour I opted out for is purple~ because vibrant hair colours is my thing~ xDD Although the dye states that it's a Deep Burgundy colour; I knew it would come out purple since my hair is bleached and this dye is purple base ( most burgundy dyes often have a red base). So the results will vary for people with natural/unbleached hair.

Content:

The box comes with the usual: Instruction leaflet, gloves, colour cream, developer and conditioner. (Apologies that I forgot to photograph the contents this time.)

Process:

I first mixed the colour cream and developer cream together to form the dye and then applied it my hair in sections. Once application was complete; I tied my hair into a bun, place my hair into a plastic bag and left it for 20 minutes. The dye contains shea butter and 3 nourishing oils (avocado, olive and blackcurrant). Which is great, as it does not dry out your hair during the dye procedure. It also has a strong fruity scent - lovely and covers up the smell of ammonia. The consistency of the dye is perfect! Not too runny or thick, easy and pleasant application.

After 20 minutes, I finished my hair with shampoo and the conditioner that came with the dye. Pure love for the conditioner, it always nourishes my dry damaged hair and gives its shine - bringing my hair back to life. I wish they sold the conditioner separately too. There is a generous amount of conditioner that will last for good few weeks.

Results:

The dye first came out as deep rich violet colour, due to the nature of bleached hair absorbing in everything. The dye then faded to a blackcurrant colour, which matched the box. After a few more washes it faded to a pinky purple colour. I am expecting it to fade even more. Of course if you're using this dye on unbleached hair it won't fade as quickly or as light.

Indoor lighting:

Natural Sunlight:

Garnier Nutrisse dyes never fails to disappoint me. The colour outcome is so beautiful; many of my classmates have been complemented the colour too. ^^

Pros:

Nourishing dye - does not dry/further damage the hair
Rich and vibrant colour
The dye and conditioner contains shea butter and nourishing oils
Easy to use
Even coverage
Comes with a generous conditioner

Cons:

Contains ammonia/ammonium hydroxide

Rating: 9/10

Would I recommend?

Most definitely! - Beautiful colour, easy to use and affordable. I had no problems using the dye at all. The only con I could think of is that it contains ammonia, which is damaging to the hair. One of my all time favourite drugstore dyes. ^^

Have you switched your hair colour recently too? ^^

November 10, 2014

The Body Shop Skin Clearing Facial Wash Review

I've been trying out new and old facial washes the last 2-3 months since I am still having little breakouts due to the colder weather. >.< I rediscovered The Body Shop Tea Tree Wash, which was gift from my bestie Jess - thank youuu. <3

Description: "This daily-use facial wash for blemish skin gives clearer-looking skin when used as part of a regular regime."

The first thing you'll notice when you use the product is the tea tree smell, which I personally like but others may find it overwhelming or funny. The smell does go away once you wash the product off. The consistency of the product is great, not too thick or runny - easy to use. I've been using this wash for the last month; I like that it leaves my skin feeling clean without drying it. I have super oily and blemish skin, so it may dry out other skin types. The tea tree oil gives a cool and tingly feeling, which I love - especially in the mornings as its refreshing. With regular use, my breakouts cleared up quicker and my oils stayed at bay for extra a few hours. I can't say if it helped prevent pimples much, since I still had some pimples popping out here and there, but definitely less than before. Overall a great product that does the job. I would recommend this for people with oily and blemished skin~

Pros:

Affordable
Clears blemishes quicker
Reduces sebum
Does not dry out my skin
Great for daily use

Cons:

May dry out skin that is not oily/blemish
Strong smell may be overwhelming for some people

Rating: 7/10

Have you rediscover any products recently? ^^

November 07, 2014

Products I've Used Up & Reviews #2 - Hair Product Empties

Clairol Herbal Essences - Break's Over Anti-Breakage Strengthening Conditioner 400ml

This is one of my favourite conditioners! I can't find it in stores anymore not sure whether this is discontinued or not. "Beautiful Ends" may be the replacement. The conditioner scent is lovely - it has a soft honey and milk scent. It leaves your hair very soft, smooth and shiny. This condition hydrated my hair intensively and did protect my hair from breakage, as I have very damaged hair from bleaching.

Rating: 10/10
Would I repurchase? - Definitely! IF I can find it in stores again that this.
Would I recommend it? - Definitely! A inexpensive conditioner that does the job and what it claims beautifully? Why wouldn't recommend this beauty?

Pantene Pro-V Aqua Light - Lightweight Nourishing Mask 200ml

Another one of my favourites! The mask hydrates and nourishes the hair very well, leaving my hair soft and shiny. I can't describe the scent but it smell very nice and like a professional salon product. The product itself is very lightweight. It does not weight my hair down, so after blow drying my hair, my hair is left feeling lightweight and fluffy.

Rating: 10/10

Would I repurchase? - Definitely!

Would I recommend it? - Definitely! A inexpensive mask that nourishes your hair and leaves it soft and lightweight, why not?

Pantene Pro-V Aqua Light - Instant Damage Defence Conditioning Spray 150ml

The product is half oil and half liquid. This is great as it conditions the hair well and leaves it smelling great. Its lightweight and does not weight down the hair. I prefer this over leave in conditioners as my hands won't be cover in product. Its also great for mornings, especially when i'm in a rush. i can just spray this on and quickly leave.

Rating: 9/10
Would I repurchase? - Yes, if I can find it stores that is. >.<
Would I recommend it? - Yes, its great for those always in a rush in the mornings and feel that their hair is a bit dry and needs some nourishment.

MESSHEAD Hair Therapy - Heat Protection Spray 250ml

I brought this from the 99p store for 50p! I was tempting to purchase it since the store was closing down and everything was 50p. Plus I like to try new products, so why not? The heat protection spray is nothing special, it does protect the hair from heat, however I feel that it doesn't protect it fully, especially not from high heats such as 230c.

Rating: 5/10
Would I repurchase? - If it goes on sale for such a bargain price again.
Would I recommend it? - Yes and No. Yes if you're on a budget or don't want to spend much on haircare. This does the job. However no, if you use high heats like me. As your hair will not be fully protected.

So...? Va Va Volume and So...? Fabulous Dry Shampoo 150ml

Read the full review by clicking here. ^_^

Rating: 9/10

Would I repurchase?: Indeed. ^^

Would I recommend?: 100% - affordable and lovely variety of scents to suit everyone. They also sell these as a gift set. It comes with all 4 of the scents and in a cute travel size, a great christmas gift. ^^

Attitude - Dry Shampoo 150ml

Another dry shampoo because I really greasy hair. >.< This one smells like raspberries! I love the scent. It's nothing special but does the job and absorbs the oils. However I find this one leaves your hair with quite a lot white residue.

Rating: 5/10

Would I repurchase? - When i'm running low on money.

Would I recommend it? - Yes and no, yes if you're on a budget or don't want to spend much on haircare. This smells great and it does the job. No for those with dark hair, as you have to wait while before the white residue disappears.

Schwarzkopf - Gliss Shine Tonic - Shimmering Shine & Repair Care 100ml

Read the full review by clicking here. ^_^

Rating: 6/10

Would I repurchase? - Maybe - for something a little extra. The shine it gives is really nice, however I tend to forget to spray it and often neglect the product.

Would I recommend it? - The tonic is lightweight, it adds extra shine to your hair and makes it tangle less. If thats what you're looking for then yes I do recommend it to you.

So what hair products have you finished using up in the last few months? ^^

October 29, 2014

Attack On Titan / Shingeki no Kyojin Annie Leonhart Female Titan Halloween Cosplay Make Up

Since its Halloween soon and I didn't want to waste my blonde hair (I'm going to dye it again this week! #typicalme~) I did a cosplay makeup! Dan dan dan dan~ The female titan (女型の巨人メイク) ^.^ I was too lazy to do the neck, but I think it still turned out great. ^^ It was really fun doing this but a complete pain in the ass to remove! >.<

I know my hair is too long for the Female Titan but apologies I am not cutting my hair! xD It needs to grow out the damage yo.

I haven't posted anything Japanese or anime related on my blog before, so this is my first~ ^^ Should I start Japanese culture too? O.o Anyway enjoy the camwhore selfies xDD

Incase if anyone is wondering~ For this look I used normal makeup; I didn't use face paint simply because I don't like the texture and cakey/powdery result. Plus its hard to get hold of in where I live. >.< So whilst everyone else used red face paint, I used red lipstick (Revlon ColourBurst Matte Balm in 250 Standout ^^). My first time doing so and i'll admit it was weird. xDDD On the other hand, I made good use of my resources~ ^_^ As for the black, I used 17's gel eyeliner which I will review soon and link here~ For the highlighted area I used Bourjois's Healthy Mix Correcting Concealer and MUA's white eyeliner.

What are you guys going to dress up as for this year's Halloween? Let me know :')

October 26, 2014

KPop Idols With Grey Hair

I've been loving the love grey hair trend or 'ahjumma' (Granny in Korean) hair as some people would say. I've been wanting it for almost a 2 years now but still haven't got the courage to do it! So here's a grey hair appreciation post for me to brave up and do it soon !~ ^^

Subin

After School - Nana

Teentop - L Joe

Mblaq - Mir

Tara - Qri

HyunSeung

Big Bang - Top

Girl's Day - Hyeri

EXO - Sehun

B.A.P - Daehyun

Hyosung

N

I know there are still plenty more artists that had grey hair but these ones are my favourite.

Who do you think pulled it off the best? ^.^

October 23, 2014

KPop Diet #11: F(x) Sulli and Amber Plastic Bag Workout

Sulli and Amber revealed on Star King their method to losing weight and maintaining a toned figure. Its simple and free~ They simply inflate a plastic bag and kick it around in various ways so that the plastic bag doesn't touch the floor. I think this method would help tone your legs further. You can watch the video below to see Sulli and Amber demonstrate it~ ^__^

October 19, 2014

Skinfood Black Egg Pore Gel Base Review

This was gift from my friend Jasmin~ (Thank you! ^__^)

Description of the product taken from the Skinfood website:

"A pore-refining primer gel with a velvety finish that improves the appearance of enlarged pores while preparing skin for makeup. The apricot colour base brightens lacklustre skin tones."

The primer comes in pearl-essence white tube, with an egg shaped twist lid. Simple yet interesting. The tube packaging makes it easy to use and very hygienic.

The primer itself is a light apricot colour, which I love as it corrects and evens out my skin tone, it also brightens up my tired looking skin. The primer does have a light coverage, so you can actually use it on its own like a BB cream. It has a gel texture, with a little silicone. It glides onto the skin nicely and blends in perfectly. I love how it instantly fills in my enlarged pores, making my skin appear smooth. It looks very natural and gives the illusion that pores didn't exist.

I apply he gel base after my skincare, before applying my BB cream or foundation. This really does help my makeup last longer, which is great. Although it is not a feature, the base does slight help control my oils for a few extra hours too.

Pros:

Great packaging - easy to use and hygienic
Corrects skin tone and brightens up skin
Has light coverage
Can use it on it own like a sheer BB cream
Blends into skin perfectly
Filled in pores
Provides oil control

Cons:

Has a unique scent that some people may not like

Rating: 9/10

Would I repurchase?

Yes! (although I didn't buy this one xDD but if it did you know... ^^)

Would I recommend?

Most definitely! This is my current favourite primer. Instantly blurs out enlarge pores and corrects skin tone. Helps my makeup last longer and stay in place. Whilst it also helps to keep my oils at bay for a few hours longer too. ^^ An awesome product indeed.

Have you tried any Skinfood products? ^.^