Top skincare + makeup picks of 2012

2012 Round-up time!

Skincare up first:

Mario Badescu Skincare line

Clearasil Oil-Free Daily Face Wash w/ 2% Salicylic Acid

Coconut Oil for body moisturization, Tea Tree Oil for spot treatment, Baking Soda + Arrowroot Powder + Coconut Oil + Tea Tree Oil for DIY Deodorant

DIY Deodorant - no aluminum-based products!

Algenist Ultra Lightweight UV Defense Fluid SPF 50

Garnier Moisture Rescue Refreshing Gel-Cream

Makeup products:

C.O. Bigelow Lemon & Pomegranate Lip Cream

ELF Complexion Perfection Powder

Be A Bombshell Eyeliner in Onyx

ELF Eyelash Curler

Neutrogena Healthy Volume Waterproof Mascara in Carbon Black

Sources: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5 / 6 / 7

OOTD

Outer hoodie: New York & Company, $10 (sale)

Belt: unknown

Shirt: Express, gift

Tights: Claire's, $7.50 (got on sale for $3)

Necklace: East Asia

Bracelet: Gift

Up close of bracelet:

Review: St. Ives Apricot Scrub w/ 2% Salicylic Acid

Ah yes. The highly famous St. Ives Apricot Scrub.

Ingredients:
Active Ingredient: Salicylic Acid (2%). Other Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Juglans Regia Shell Powder, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Propylene Glycol, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Zea Mays (Corn) Kernel Meal, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Cetyl Alcohol, Triethanolamine, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Fruit Extract, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Extract, Primula Veris Extract, Sambucus Nigra Flower Extract, Sorbitol, Acetylated Lanolin Alcohol, Polysorbate 60, Propylparaben, Ethylparaben, Methylparaben, Sodium Chloride, Carbomer, Phenoxyethanol, Ceteareth-20, Cetyl Acetate, Linalool, Eugenol, Hexy Cinnamal, Fragrance (Parfum), Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891).

This was one of the first skincare products I ever bought for myself. At the time I was suffering from teenage acne and was distraught as to what to do. I listened to the Target Pharmacist and bought what she recommended. At the time, I didn't really understand skincare, and used it everyday. At first it helped my acne but afterward it just irritated it! Argh! So I switched up my skincare routine later and used it 1-2x/week. Much better.

Later, I used it to exfoliate my underarms (yeah, I know, TMI but it works, trust me).

What did I think of it?

Pros:

• Very effective at exfoliating (used 1-2X/week for about 1/2 year)
• Leaves skin feeling very smooth
• Has salicylic acid to help combat acne
• Very affordable ($3.50 for 6 oz)

Cons:

• May be too strong/too abrasive for those with sensitive skin
• Has parabens (for those who are adverse/against/dislike parabens)

Would I repurchase it? I did for many years. But now I'm trying my aspirin toner and it seems to work just as well, if not better. And my aspirin toner can be tweaked in many ways that this can't, so I'm going to stick to that one for now.

Source: 1

Review: Mario Badescu Products (Skincare line for combination skin)

 

 I was fortunate enough to receive a bunch of samples from Mario Badescu. I've heard and read lots of good things about this brand's products and decided to try it out myself.

Mario Badescu provided me with a bunch of products, several of which I really liked, and others which still worked well.

I used each of the products (except for one) for at least 2 weeks. I'll review every one of the products shown in the picture above.

Enzyme Cleansing Gel - Suitable for all skin types, this cleanser features "papaya and grapefruit extracts" which function as "alpha hydroxy acids". The number of ingredients in this product (see below) was stunningly very few and had lots of awesome benefits. The ingredients list also features glycerin (a humectant) in a very prominent proportion (it is the second ingredient listed), and is also a great ingredient. Methylparaben is also present, which may discourage some people, but as shown in these articles (1, 2, 3) they aren't that bad, and are actually helpful for preserving the longevity of the product. according to the website, this product retails at $12 for 8 oz, or $20 for 16 oz. Pricey but lasts a long time (a little bit in the sample jar lasted me 2 weeks).

INGREDIENTS: Deionized Water (Aqua),Glycerin,Papaya (Carica Papaya Fruit) Extract,Grapefruit (Citrus Grandis Fruit) Extract,Monomide,Triethanolamine,Methylparaben

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Special Cucumber Lotion - Suitable for combination and/or oily skin types, this toner offers a soothing toning solution featuring cucumber, known for its soothing properties. It also has a small list of ingredients. Isopropyl alcohol is listed in the ingredients, but then again (1) it is also in a lot of other toners, (2) is featured in a much smaller percentage than many other toners, and (3) is not actually that bad in products (see articles 4, 5, and 6). This product is also pretty pricey ($15 for 8 oz, $26 for 16 oz, or $45 for 32 oz) but a little lasts a long time. Seriously. I've been using the little container of the sample for about 3 weeks, and I still have a lot of it left.

INGREDIENTS: Deionized Water,Isopropyl Alcohol,Nonoxynol-9,Boric Acid,Cucumber Extract

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Ceramide Eye Gel - Pricey - $18 for 0.5 oz, but comparable to other eye gel/eye cream prices. A cursory glance at the ingredients list shows that the product has cholesterol, glycerin, and silicone, which are good moisturizers, humectants, and can help fill in/smooth out wrinkles. "Herbal extract" seems like somewhat of a fluff term because one doesn't know what herbs are used in the extract, but I guess herbs are present in the product. Urea, which is an emollient product, is also listed in the list. Parabens are also present, but then again, as listed in the articles linked above, they are actually beneficial.

INGREDIENTS: Ceramides (and) Cholesterol,Herbal Extract,Water,Glycerin,Silicone,Propylene Glycol,Diazolidinyl Urea (and) Methylparaben (and) Propylparaben,Triethanolamine

~

Strawberry Facial Scrub - Good for all skin types, sold at $15 for 4 oz. This product is truly the epitome of the mantra "less is more". A tiny amount (size of a pea) is good enough to cover your entire face. It is a very creamy product that contains strawberry seeds for exfoliation (desquamation in scientifically correct terms). The instructions state to use it 2-3 times weekly, but I felt that the scrub was a bit too creamy to use so often. I would use it about once a week. The product claims to "unclog pores and prevent blackheads", but I haven't seen my blackheads diminish or pores to get unclogged solely because of this product. Overall, I think this product would be better for normal skin types or dry skin types.

INGREDIENTS: Deionized Water,Stearic Acid, Strawberry Extract, Seamollient,Propylene Glycol Dipelargonate,Polyglycol Ester,Myristate DEA

~

Drying Cream - Good for all skin types, sold at $14 for 0.5 oz. Once again, a little goes a long way. This is a very dry cream that you just put onto your pimples to get rid of pimples. A cursory glance notes that this product features aloe (soothing), zinc oxide and titanium dioxide (also ingredients for sunscreen protection), colloidal sulfur (for combating acne) and propylene glycol (a controversial ingredient in some "natural" deodorant products that do not contain aluminum). I used this product over my pimple areas (on the edges of my face, T-zone). Despite the rave reviews I've seen, sadly this product did not work for me, even after about 2 weeks of application. I was pretty disappointed that it didn't work - didn't even dry up the pimples, much less get rid of them. Oh well. Overall, I think this would be an interesting product to try, although I don't think I'll be purchasing the full-sized version any time soon.

INGREDIENTS: Deionized Water, Zinc Oxide,Aloe, Beeswax,Cetyl Alcohol,Lemon Extract, Colloidal Sulfur,Ervol,Octyl Palmitate,Ichthammol,Polysorbate 80, Titanium Dioxide,Polyglycerylmethacrylate (and) Propylene Glycol

~

Cucumber Tonic Mask - Good for combination, oily, and sensitive skin types. This product is a kaolin clay mask that you smear onto your face. It reminds me a lot of Queen Helene's Mint Julep Masque, except that this product uses cucumber in lieu of the mint that Queen Helene's uses. It dries out VERY quickly - even though on the instructions stated on the Mario Badescu website state that you're supposed to wait 15-20 minutes before rinsing off, it literally dried after about 2 minutes on my skin. This product, however, definitely smoothed my skin out and was a lot less irritating than the Queen Helene product (perhaps because it has cucumber in lieu of mint) - at least it didn't sting. I actually liked it a lot. A 2 oz container of this costs $18.

INGREDIENTS: Deionized Water, Kaolin,PVP, Wheat Starch, Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, Sorbitol,Polysorbate 80,Cucumber Extract



Collagen Moisturizer, SPF 15 - Good for combination and sensitive skin types. I tried this sunscreen out for about a week. It seriously is one of the finest, most easily applied sunscreens I've ever encountered. It glides on easily and is absorbed easily by the skin. It also doesn't feel terribly icky or sticky. The problem is that this product does not provide adequate UV protection - just look at the ingredients list! How can UVA and UVB rays be covered by this? I personally feel I would need a more comprehensive sunscreen than this. (2 oz for $22)

INGREDIENTS: Deionized Water,Protol, Cottonseed Oil, Octyl Methoxycinnamate,Stearic Acid, Collagen,Cetyl Alcohol,Triethanolamine,Sodium Benzoate,Propylparaben


Final impressions - overall, almost every one of the samples lasted a long time, at least 2 weeks' worth of supply. Isn't that amazing - these little jars of stuff can last so long? If the jars of stuff could last so long, think about how long the full-sized product would last!

The cool thing is that Mario Badescu offers free samples of their products to just about anyone! (Click here for the link) Simply sign up for an account with your e-mail address and fill out your skincare profile. The company will mail you free samples customized for your skin type. Isn't that awesome?

Have you ever tried Mario Badescu products? If so, what was your impression of them? Leave a comment!

Reviews: Hard Night Good Morning products

I went to Central Market quite awhile ago and was able to receive several samples of products from this line. This line of products was developed by D'Andra Simmons - by using these products, she has been able to maintain her skin still to be dewey and fresh, despite being in her 40s!

Upon hearing that I was a skincare enthusiast/med student, the sales rep immediately proceeded to give me lots of skincare samples. (Thank you!)

Futurederm did a very good review of the overall line in 2009 (click here for the link) but I'd like to share my personal experiences with the products:

Thus, I got the:

 Facial Cocktail Serum ($70 for 1 oz)

Special ingredients include: "Baobab Extract, Rooibos Tea, Guarana Extract and Acai Extract"

Pros:

• Really hydrated my skin
• Absorbed well

Cons:

• Made my skin burn afterward
• Kind of inflammed my skin afterward
• Is super expensive

 Eye Cream ($38.99 for 0.5 oz)

Special ingredients include: Suberlift , Lys'lastine, Lumin-eye, Eyeliss, CoQ10, baobab extract, arnica, and various botanicals

Pros:

• Lots of fancy ingredients (though their efficacy is debated in the Futurederm article)
• Very emollient, very hydrating
• A little goes A LONG way
• Definitely felt like it was an effective product

Cons:

• Bad packaging (in jar)
• Crazy price

 Nighttime moisturizer ($39.99 for 1.7 oz)

Special ingredients include: Gatuline® Age Defense, Gatuline® RC, Hematite Extract, Griffonia Extract, and a "bio-available" form of Vitamin C.

Pros:

• Very emollient, moisturizing
• Didn't break me out, even though was emollient 

Cons:

• Bad packaging (in jar, so more susceptible to introducing bacteria in)
• Crazy price

Overall, what do I think of this line? THIS is a good line. I like it. The only problem is the price. If it weren't for that, I would buy full-sized ingredients of this line.

Sources: 1

The Sunscreen Project, Part 18

Algenist Ultra Lightweight UV Defense Fluid,
 SPF 50

As you guys and gals probably already know, I've been searching for a super great, affordable sunscreen.

I've already gone through 14 sunscreens/moisturizers with SPF/eye creams with SPF!

Well, I'm still looking. And looking.

Anyway, enough with the tirade. This sunscreen was recommended by a saleslady at Sephora. She gave me several very hefty samples to try of it. According to her, this product, Algenist's ultra Lightweight UV Defense Fluid SPF 50, was "the best sunscreen in the entire store." Wow. That's quite a statement.

I decided to try it, based on her word. And she did give me a lot of samples - I was able to use them for 2 weeks, and still have some left.

Wow.

Ingredients:

Octinoxate, Titanium Dioxide, Zinc Oxide, Cyclopentasiloxane, Water, Alcohol Denat, Glycerin, Polyglyceryl-3 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl, Dimethicone, Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone, Algae Exopolysaccharides, Echinacea Purpurea Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Camellia Oleifera Leaf Extract, Arctostaphylos Uva Ursi Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Stearic Acid, Triethoxysilylethyl Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Hexyl, Dimethicone, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Aluminum Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Hexylene Glycol, Fragrance.

According to the Sephora website, this product has the following special ingredients:


-Alguronic Acid: Increases cell regeneration and elastin synthesis. 
-Vitamin E and Green Tea: Contain antioxidants that protect the skin against signs of aging, and help minimize fine lines and wrinkles. 
-Bearberry and Licorice Root Extracts: Contain antioxidants that help protect the skin against sun damage, and boost skin radiance and luminosity. 


Well, what did I think of it?

Pros:

• Really is a good sunscreen
• Protects against UVA and UVB rays
• has ZnO2 and TiO2
• Also has all of those cool extracts and alguronic acid
• Doesn't make me break out
• Is very sheer - covers well, and doesn't feel too emollient or sticky
• Dries quickly
• Doesn't feel heavy on my skin
• Didn't make me break out

Cons:

• Denatured alcohol may be bad for sensitive skin types
• Price: $38 for 1 oz

I think this is probably one of the most expensive sunscreens I've ever used. I think ultimately, if one had enough $$, this would be an awesome investment. This product has come quite close to being an optimal sunscreen, but the price is too hefty. So sadly I will not be investing in this one. However, for those who have $$, or wish to invest in a good sunscreen, I highly recommend it.

Past posts:

Part 1: Introduction

Part 2: Vanicream SPF 30

Part 3: Solbar Avo SPF 32
Part 4: Pur~lisse Essential Daily Moisturizer SPF 30
Part 5: Coppertone Sport SPF 30
Part 6: Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 15

Part 7: Shiseido Sun Protection Eye Cream SPF 32
Part 8: Clean & Clear Finishes Oil-Free Pore Perfecting Moisturizer w/ SPF 15

Part 9: Coppertone Oil Free Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30
Part 10: Wrap-up (Season 1)
Part 11: Season 2 Start - MAC Studio Moisture Fix SPF 15
Part 12: Avon Anew Rejuvenate 24-Hour Eye Cream, SPF 25
Part 13: Articles
Part 13.1: Articles (further updated)
Part 14: Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunblock SPF 30
Part 15: Neutrogena Healthy Defense Daily SPF 50
Part 16: Murad Essential-C Day Moisture SPF 30
Part 17: Clinique's Even Better Skin Tone Correcting Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 20

Source: 1

Review: Neutrogena Healthy Volume Mascara, Waterproof, Carbon Black

Yeah, you can see my feet.

Gah. Yes. It's another mascara review.

Why do I always search for different mascaras? Why am I always trying out different ones?

Well, the simple answer is that my lashes are not the best ones I would like to ideally have.
Short, stick-straight, thin, all that stuff. I guess it's a blessing that I less body hair (don't need to shave legs! lolz) but my eyelashes are pretty skimpy. Thus, the whole mascara drive.

I've been trying out different mascaras for years. Every 3 months (the normal life of a mascara) I go out and buy another mascara to try. Thus, when the life of my L'oreal Voluminous Carbon Black Waterproof ran out, I went to the store and bought another new one.

Enter Neutrogena Healthy Volume Mascara in Carbon Black, Waterproof.

I bought it at HEB for about $6. Normally it costs $8 a tube but the store was running a promotion so I got a bit of a discount. Nice.

Here's a first look, comparing the two L'oreal Carbon Black and Neutrogena:

The L'oreal's label is completely gone because it's smudged off from the
 multiple times I've used it.

Upon initial glance, I would think that the wand needs to go on a diet. Lolz. It's huge. The L'oreal was middle-sized, okay-sized, but the Neutrogena is pretty big. (how do you make inanimate objects go on diets anyway?)

What I look for in a mascara:

1. Waterproof (doesn't smear or smudge)
2. Dark
3. Voluminizing
4. Lengthening
5. Doesn't irritate my contact lenses
6. Hypoallergenic (hopefully)
7. Affordability

So, how did the Neutrogena go?

1. Waterproof - YES, this mascara DID NOT smear or smudge, even after 12+ hours of wear. Seriously, from 8 AM to 11 PM. Seriously.
2. Dark - YES, did make my lashes look dark. Really carbon black!
3. Volumizing - YES, this did do the trick. Somehow my lashes looked 2X thicker than my normal lashes, lolz.
4. Lengthening - YES, it lengthened my lashes quite considerably
5. Contact lenses - DID NOT irritate them
6. Hypoallergenic - DID NOT make my eyes watery during the first 8 hrs of wear; afterward made my eyes tear up more and flush out more rheum. 
7. Affordability - Kind of pricey for a drugstore mascara but is still cheaper than high-end ones, and does a great job.
8. DOES NOT CLUMP!!!! And the brush comes out clean - no need to wipe on the edges and stuff after the wand comes out.
9. No flaking. Yay!

Thus, the above qualifications are definitely pros.

Cons:

1. Hard to get off - but it is considerable since it IS a waterproof mascara. Use olive oil and several cotton pads to do this.
2. It's pretty hard getting the lashes on the inner corners of my eyes because the wand is so big. Need lots of skill. I've been trying to work on this (trying to develop skilled hands so that I don't look like an idiot when I get onto surgery rotations? I dunno) but still I'm not very good at it (been going at it for about 2 months already)
3. Doesn't hold a curl - even after curling, the mascara makes my eyelashes go right back to stick-straight.
4. It DID make my eyes feel really dry - I felt like I needed to put in eye drops to compensate for the dryness. Ech.

Note - this mascara has a formula which is on the drier side, which is good. This way it isn't as likely to smudge.

So, overall, what did I think of this? Well, it isn't the perfect HG mascara, but it's the closest I've gotten to a great one. Perhaps even better than the Maybelline Falsies in Black Drama I tried. I like it. It's definitely worth trying if you're looking for a waterproof mascara that thickens, lengthens, and does not smudge/flake/clump.

Still looking for the ideal one!


Previously tried mascaras (chronological order):

1. Estee Lauder MagnaScopic Maximum Volume, Black (not waterproof)
2. CoverGirl VolumeExact, Very Black, Waterproof
3. CoverGirl LashBlast Length, Black, Water-resistant
4. CoverGirl LashBlast Volume, Black, Waterproof
5. Almay One Coat Thickening Mascara, Black, Waterproof
6. Maybelline Falsies in Black Drama, Waterproof
7. Maybelline Colossal in Classic Black, Waterproof
8. L'oreal Voluminous Carbon Black, Waterproof

Source: 1

40 Question Beauty Tag

Note: I am not a beauty guru, but I just thought this would be fun!

1) HOW MANY TIMES DO YOU WASH YOUR FACE A DAY?

2x - once in morning, once at night

2) WHAT SKIN TYPE DO YOU HAVE? NORMAL/COMBO/OILY

Combination/oily. Oily in my T-zone.

3) WHAT IS YOUR CURRENT FACIAL WASH?

Morning: 3Lab Perfect Cleansing Foam
Night: Clearasil Daily Cleanser w/ 2% salicylic acid

4) DO YOU EXFOLIATE? FACE/BODY?

Face: 2-3X/week with facial mask, or facial scrub.
Body: in shower, w/ 1:1 aspirin solution (DIY)

Medical terminology:
BTW, it's desquamate, NOT exfoliate - desquamate is getting rid of that top layer of dead skin cells, aka the keratinocytes of the stratum disjunctum. Exfoliate = getting rid of skin all the way to the basale lamina, aka bottom layer of the epidermis - a true horror!!!

5) WHAT BRAND DO YOU USE? EXFOLIATOR?

Queen Helene's Mint Julep Masque
DIY 1:1 Aspirin Mask
DIY Aspirin, Honey, Cucumber, Lemon/Lime juice mask
Mario Badescu's Strawberry Facial Scrub (testing)

6) WHAT MOISTURIZER DO YOU USE?

Face:

Mario Badescu's Cucumber Lotion (testing) + Neutrogena Healthy Skin Ant-Wrinkle (Night cream)
On non-oily parts of face: Origins A Perfect World Antioxidant moisturizer w/ White Tea


Body: Summer = Aveeno lotion, Winter = coconut oil and vitamin E oil, as well as Nivea's Express Hydration Lotion

7) DO YOU HAVE FRECKLES? FACE/BODY?

I have a few freckles on my cheeks (due to Gulf Coast USA sun), but they are barely visible to the naked eye. I don't have any freckles on my body.

8) DO YOU USE EYE CREAM?

I use it intermittently, if I get samples from select companies. However, most of the time I just use my facial moisturizer or sunscreen.

9) DID OR DO YOU HAVE ACNE PRONE SKIN?

Yes! Especially when I am stressed (high levels of cortisol), have not been exercising well, etc. I had moderate to severe acne during late middle school/early high school, but recently, during college years and post-college years, it's gotten better.

10) DID YOU EVER HAVE TO USE PROACTIV?

Nope, never!

11) WHAT FOUNDATION?

Confession: I've never used foundation. I once went to some department store makeup areas and asked  them to swatch me (aka find the right shade of foundation) but the saleslady said that I didn't need to wear foundation - my skin was fine the way it was. Since then (and even before then) I've never used it. I've never used powder, BB cream, CC cream or tinted moisturizer either. The only time I've used blush or bronzer was for Halloween - for Halloween makeup to suit my costume.

12) WHAT CONCEALER?

Maybelline Dream Mousse Concealer in Cream 4-5 (now discountinued, but you can still buy on Amazon or Ebay)

13) DO YOU KNOW YOUR UNDERTONE COLOR?

Hmm. This is hard. Most people think that all East Asians have yellow skintones. However, as you can see from this article from MusicalHouses by Jerlene Then, that's not really true. I'm not sure whether I'm warm or cool-toned but I definitely have a pink undertone. My skin's gotten lighter than it used to be as well, so it's really different. I think I might have neutral undertones, but emphasis on think.

14) WHAT DO YOU THINK OF FAKE EYELASHES?

I think they're cool, but then again I've never used them.

15) DID YOU KNOW YOUR SUPPOSE TO CHANGE YOUR MASCARA EVERY THREE MONTHS?

Yes. I do throw them out every 3 months - I mark their expiration dates the moment I start using them.

16) WHAT TYPE OF MASCARA DO YOU USE?

Gah, I've tried so many different types. Right now I'm on Neutrogena's Healthy Volume in Carbon Black. I prefer waterproof mascaras because they seem to hold a curl better, and don't melt under hot humid weather.

17) SEPHORA OR MAC?

Sephora - bigger variety!

18) DO YOU HAVE A MAC PRO CARD?

Nope!

19) WHAT MAKE UP TOOLS DO YOU USE WHEN APPLYING MAKE UP

Fingers, brushes, q-tips for removal.

20) DO YOU USE MAKE UP BASE PRIMER FOR THE EYES OR FACE?

Eyes - yes, my DIY primer with 1:1 body butter:concealer. Cheap and effective. Period.

21) WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE EYESHADOW COLOR OR SHADE?

I have several. I generally prefer neutral colors. Lately I've been using this quad from Estee Lauder (gift) with a bunch of neutral colors. I also like highlight shades from CoverGirl.

22) DO YOU USE PENCIL OR LIQUID EYELINER?

I use liquid for top liner, and pencil for waterline. Sometimes exotic pencil liner colors if I'm feeling adventurous.

23) HOW OFTEN DO YOU POKE YOUR EYES WITH AN EYELINER PENCIL?

I don't think I have? Mascaras - yes I have. Ruined contact lenses....

24) WHAT DO YOU THINK OF PIGMENT EYESHADOWS?

I don't really like them because they get all over the place, and generally need very good brush technique to apply.

25) DO YOU USE MINERAL MAKE UP?

Don't think I've used it before...

26) WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE LIPSTICK? LIPGLOSS?

Lipstick - I like Maybelline's Color Sensational line.
Lipgloss - currently on Estee Lauder's Pop Gloss, though usually don't wear it b/c it's too sticky.
I generally stick w/ chapsticks + SPF.

27) WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE BLUSH?

Don't use blush. I've used an ELF blush before for a Halloween costume. I have a Milani Baked Blush in Terra Sole, but it broke!

28) DO YOU BUY YOUR MAKE UP ON EBAY?

Nope!

29) DO YOU LIKE DRUGSTORE MAKE UP?

Yes - it can be just as good as, if not better, than high-end makeup!

30) DO YOU GO TO A CCO?

What's a CCO?

31) DID YOU EVER CONSIDER TAKING MAKE UP CLASSES?

No - most of the stuff I learned came from Youtube. I think it's enough for now.

32) ARE YOU CLUMSY PUTTING ON MAKE UP?

Probably just the mascara, if I'm rushed.

33) NAME A MAKE UP CRIME THAT YOU HATE?

Spidery lashes - too clumped due to mascara.

34) DO YOU LIKE COLORFUL SHADES OF MAKE UP EYESHADOW, LIPSTICK OR NEUTRAL ONES?

Neutrals. They fit work and most daily situations better.

35) WHICH CELEBRITY ALWAYS HAS GREAT MAKE UP?

Probably just about every actress you can name.

36) IF YOU COULD LEAVE THE HOUSE WITH ONE MAKE UP ITEM WHAT WOULD IT BE?

Eyeliner.

37) WOULD YOU LIVE THE HOUSE WITHOUT MAKE UP ON?

Yes. I do so on the weekends.

38) DO YOU THINK YOU LOOK GOOD WITHOUT MAKE UP ON?

I generally think my skin is fine without makeup. I like my eyes with makeup - they look larger and don't make my poofy cheeks look so big!

39) IN YOUR OPINION WHAT IS THE BEST MAKE UP LINE?

There is none. Each brand has different cool things.
For makeup products - TheBalm, Estee Lauder, Maybelline
Eyeliner - Bombshell, Clinique, ELF, Urban Decay
Eyeshadow - CoverGirl, Estee Lauder, Wet N' Wild
Eyebrow liner - ELF, Wet N' Wild
Mascara - Maybelline
Lipstick - Revlon, Lancome
Makeup tools - ELF
Skin products - Mario Badescu, Neutrogena, Origins
Sunscreen - Algenist, Elta MD

40) WHAT DO YOU THINK OF MAKE UP?

It's a way to express yourself. Enhance your natural beauty. Give you an external source of confidence - external locus, per se. It's when that external locus turns into an internal locus that is true confidence.

Review: Eucerin Aquaphor Healing Ointment

When I got a skin rash last spring, my doctor prescribed Aquaphor to put on for healing purposes. Ever since then, I've had this tube of stuff, which I use intermittently for extreme periods of dryness on the skin, and sometimes as a late night moisturizer for my lips. Several of my friends use this as a lip balm during the daytime and night as well.

Well, what do I think of it?

According to the official Eucerin website, its ingredients are:

Active ingredient            Purpose

Petrolatum (41%)            Skin protectant (ointment)

Inactive Ingredients

Mineral Oil, Ceresin, Lanolin Alcohol, Panthenol, Glycerin, Bisabolol

An inspection of the ingredients shows that the main ingredients, petrolatum, mineral oil, lanolin, glycerin, etc - are all very hydrating. Nice. I wouldn't recommend using this product as a facial moisturizer because the main ingredients are very comedogenic, however.

Many people say that this product is "water-based", especially because its name is "Aquaphor". This is wrong; the main ingredient, petrolatum, is the same as in petroleum jelly - literally it is just petroleum jelly, except with more added ingredients. For someone who is just looking for the emollient properties of petroleum jelly, just get that - it is cheaper after all, and has the same main ingredient. Of course, this Eucerin Aquaphor product has other ingredients as well that are also emollient.

What did I think of it?

Pros:
-Very emollient, moisturizing
-Did eventually help get rid of my rash, though I don't know if that was an effect of my skin healing itself over time (downfall/decreased production of IgE antibodies) or this product, or a combination of the two
-Protects against chafing
-Relatively affordable ($6 at Walgreens for 1.75 oz, a little bit goes a long way, trust me)
-Relatively free of potentially irritating products such as fragrances or essential oils

Cons:
-Really sticky, though perhaps a tiny bit less sticky than petroleum jelly (due to having extra ingredients)
-Comedogenic ingredients (though probably wouldn't be a problem if you have super dry skin and are not putting it onto your face if you have oily skin)

Would I repurchase this again? Well, I think this product is pretty good overall. It does its job. If I ran out of my first tube (which I have yet to make a dent in even) then I probably will repurchase it, if I need it.

Source: 1

OOTD

Note: This was done about 2 months ago on a weekend. I couldn't possibly wear this now - in the middle of December! (Even though it still is relatively hot compared to most of the world's winters...)

Tank top: Forever21, $4

Skirt: Ebay, $8

Tights: Gift

Necklace: Gift, Target

The Sunscreen Project, Part 17

Clinique's Even Better Skin Tone Correcting Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 20

I was fortunate enough to receive a nice sample of this sunscreen from Sephora awhile ago.

When I was looking up this product on the web, I was a bit confused. There are two products that have almost the exact same name but serve slightly different spectrums of skincare:

The Even Better Skin Tone Correcting Moisturizer, SPF 20, is for Very Dry to Dry and Dry Combination skin types:

Whereas the Even Better Skin Tone Correcting Lotion, SPF 20, is for Combination Oily and Oily skin types:

See the difference?

Well anyway, I decided to try this product. I do have oily skin, but at the same time, I do have combination skin, so I thought this product would be good.

I was wrong.

P.S. It was really hard to find the ingredients list on this product. I couldn't find the full ingredients list. - not on the Clinique website, MakeupAlley, Sephora, Macy's, etc. I ended up going onto an NIH website (National Institute of Health) to find the active ingredients. I finally going on MakeupAndBeauty to find a printed picture of the ingredients list.

Taken directly from MakeupAndBeauty:



According to NIH, the active ingredients are:
octisalate (5%), avobenzone (3%), octocrylene (2.7%)

Pros:
-Was very emollient, provided adequate moisture
-Felt like it stayed a long time
-Protects against UVA and UVB rays

Cons:
-Very greasy, OVERLY emollient (NOT good for my skin type)
-Only SPF 20, not adequate protection
-Expensive price: $46.50 for 1.7 oz

Overall, while I think this is a good product, it is not suited for my skin type. I will not be purchasing a full-sized version of this product.

Still looking for that awesome sunscreen!


Past posts

Part 1: Introduction

Part 2: Vanicream SPF 30

Part 3: Solbar Avo SPF 32
Part 4: Pur~lisse Essential Daily Moisturizer SPF 30
Part 5: Coppertone Sport SPF 30
Part 6: Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 15

Part 7: Shiseido Sun Protection Eye Cream SPF 32
Part 8: Clean & Clear Finishes Oil-Free Pore Perfecting Moisturizer w/ SPF 15

Part 9: Coppertone Oil Free Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30
Part 10: Wrap-up (Season 1)
Part 11: Season 2 Start - MAC Studio Moisture Fix SPF 15
Part 12: Avon Anew Rejuvenate 24-Hour Eye Cream, SPF 25
Part 13: Articles
Part 13.1: Articles (further updated)
Part 14: Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunblock SPF 30
Part 15: Neutrogena Healthy Defense Daily SPF 50
Part 16: Murad Essential-C Day Moisture SPF 30

Source: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5

Winterlicious tag! (This blog edition)

QUESTIONS ♥ - From stuff more pertaining to this blog!

1) Favorite Winter Nail Polish?
Truthful answer - None. Until Gross Anatomy Lab is over I will not wear any nail polish on my hands. On my toes though... probably Maybelline Quick Dry in Racy Red =D




(This is, however, my default color usually though!)


2) Favorite Winter lip product?

My C.O. Bigelow Lemon & Pomegranate Lip Cream


3) Most worn Winter clothing piece?

Probably just my pink Tommy Hilfiger hoodie. Winter here is extremely mild (think 70s-80s) so really during the coldest times a hoodie suffices.


4) Most worn Winter accessory?

Scarves! of all fabrics, lengths, and colors.

Sources: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4

Drugstore MU Tag

  

Questions:
1. What is your favorite drugstore makeup brand?

If I had to pick only one? Probably Maybelline

2. What are your favorite face, cheek and lip products?

Face: (Don't wear foundation or blush or bronzer) - Sunscreen
Cheek: None
Lip: Simple chapstick or lip gloss

3. Least favorite product?

Gah! Washable mascara that runs like crazy

4. What is the best makeup bargain?

When they go on sale at 50% during those sales where they try to clear the aisles for holidays.

5. What is your favorite underdog product? (Something you love that often gets overlooked?)

Probably CoverGirl's Eye Enhancer eyeshadows. These singlets have given me the best pigment for highlight eye shades ever. They're $3 a pop at CVS, $2.25 at Kroger.

6. A drugstore product that is overpriced?

Eye primer! I don't know why they sell those so expensively. You can make your own with a 1:1 ratio of body butter and concealer for so much more less. Physician's Formula line in general - you can get similar products in Covergirl, Maybelline, L'oreal, etc lines for 1/2 the price (or less).

Eye primer:

   

7. Show your best drugstore dupe(s)!!

(I don't really do dupes? I don't really buy that many high-end brand things so I don't know really which ones are out there. Check 1000s of beauty guru websites to find them).

8. Drugstore product that isn't worth the hype?

Maybelline Great Lash Mascara. Mineral makeup - that is, for focusing solely on mineral makeup. L'oreal Voluminous series. MAC skincare products (though that's more high-end). ELF eyeshadows (sorry).  

 

The Sunscreen Project, Part 16

Still going at sunscreens!

I was fortunate to receive a nice sample of Murad's Essential-C Day Moisture SPF 30 from Sephora recently. I thought, why not? It's a nice sunscreen, and Murad is known to be a good brand, so it might be a good try.

What did I think? Pretty nice actually.

According to Sephora's website, this product is formulated "without parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals, phthalates, GMOs, and triclosan". Now, personally, I don't understand why triclosan would be in a sunscreen in the first place, because it is a detergent, which is definitely not something that sunscreen is supposed to do, but I think the other claims are relatively relevant. Pertaining to sunscreen, at least.

Ingredients:

Ensulizole 2.0%, Octinoxate 7.5%, Octocrylene 6.0%, Titanium Dioxide 3.0%, Water (Aqua), Butylene Glycol, Stearic Acid, Cocoglycerides, Diisopropyl Sebacate, Glyceryl Stearate, Lauryl Lactate, PEG-100 Stearate, Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Dimethicone, Cetyl Alcohol, Aminomethyl Propanol, Pelvetia Canaliculata Extract, Ectoin, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, Passiflora Incarnata Extract, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Sodium PCA, Panthenol, Tripleurospermum Maritima Extract, Sodium Myristoyl Sarcosinate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Phospholipids, Retinyl Palmitate, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Chitosan Ascorbate, Betaine, Sorbitol, Glycine, Alanine, Proline, Serine, Threonine, Arginine, Lysine, Glutamic Acid, Zinc Gluconate, Ethyl Linoleate, Cetyl Phosphate, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Chlorphenesin, Eugenol, Limonene, Linalool, Fragrance (Parfum), Yellow 6 (CI 15985), Red 33 (CI 17200).

Note: I noticed that one of the ingredients listed on this sunscreen is retinyl palmitate. There is a lot of contention about the use of retinyl palmitate in sunscreens - a study from the National Toxicology Program (NTP) suggested that retinyl palmitate-based sunscreens helped accelerate skin cancer. However, a review published in the Aug 2011 edition of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology disproved this. (Here's an article from FutureDerm about the contention)


Pros:
-Not greasy
-Spread on really easily
-Felt like it covered my face well without feeling super overly emollient
-Has a vitamin C serum, which helps the sunscreen (see forum comment from John Su at TheTripleHelixian)
-Has SPF 30 - FDA minimum recommendations for good protection against UVB rays
-Has titanium dioxide, which protects against UVA and UVB

Neutrals:
-Contention with retinyl palmitate

Cons:
-Titanium dioxide isn't as good at blocking rays as zinc oxide
-SUPER expensive - $60 for 1.7 oz

Bottom line, did I like this sunscreen? Yes. Will I purchase the full-sized version? As of now, no.

Sources: 1 / 2


Past posts

Part 1: Introduction

Part 2: Vanicream SPF 30

Part 3: Solbar Avo SPF 32

Part 4: Pur~lisse Essential Daily Moisturizer SPF 30

Part 5: Coppertone Sport SPF 30

Part 6: Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 15

Part 7: Shiseido Sun Protection Eye Cream SPF 32
Part 8: Clean & Clear Finishes Oil-Free Pore Perfecting Moisturizer w/ SPF 15

Part 9: Coppertone Oil Free Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30
Part 10: Wrap-up (Season 1)
Part 11: Season 2 Start - MAC Studio Moisture Fix SPF 15
Part 12: Avon Anew Rejuvenate 24-Hour Eye Cream, SPF 25
Part 13: Articles
Part 13.1: Articles (further updated)
Part 14: Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunblock SPF 30
Part 15: Neutrogena Healthy Defense Daily SPF 50

What's in my bag tag

Image courtesy of sattva / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Since everyone is doing it, why not?

My bag: Nine West Shoulder Bag, light pink

Image courtesy of Sicha Pongjivanich / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Contents:

1. Wallet
2. Cell phone (smartphone)
3. Keys
4. Sunglasses w/ case
5. Chapstick
6. Small Nivea hand creme
7. Small bottle of contact lens solution
8. Hand sanitizer
9. Earphones
10. Ear plugs
11. Pen
12. Hair ties
13. Hair clips
14. Small notepad
15. Watch
16. Flashcards (yeah, I know, but it's useful, lolz)

The Sunscreen Project, Part 15

Wow, it seems like I've gone through quite a lot of sunscreens.

Neutrogena Healthy Defense Daily Moisturizer SPF 50 w/ Helioplex

I was fortunate enough to receive several samples of this product from an event held at my school.

Well, here we go.
What do I normally look for in a sunscreen?

• Does not feel too thick or heavy
• Doesn't cause me to break out
• SPF 30 or higher
• Affordable
• Protects against UVA and UVB rays
• Preferrably a physical sunscreen (zinc oxide, titanium oxide) rather than chemical (avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, oxybenzone, homosalate, etc)

Ingredients, according to drugstore.com:

Active Ingredients: Avobenzone (3%), Homosalate (12%), Octisalate (5%), Octocrylene (2.35%), Oxybenzone (6%)

Inactive Ingredients: Water, Dimethicone, Triloxane, Diethylhexyl 2, 6 Naphthalate, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, PEG 100 Stearate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Behenyl Alcohol, Caprylyl Methicone, Ethyhexylglycerin, Pantothenic Acid, Retinyl Acetate (Vitamin A), Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Tocopherol (Natural Vitamin E), BHT, Polymethyl Methacrylate, Hydrogenated Palm Glyceride, Styrene Acrylates Copolymer, Cetearyl Glucoside, Xanthan Gum, Disodium EDTA, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Methylisothiazolinone, Benzyl Alcohol

I've used this sunscreen for several weeks now. What did I think of it?

Pros:

• Protects against UVA and UVB rays
• High SPF
• Does not feel too greasy
• Didn't seem to make me break out more than usual

Cons:

• Pricey ($14 for 1.7 oz, according to drugstore.com) -> that's comparable to some high-end sunscreens!
• Is a chemical sunscreen, so has problems associated with that (more time to absorb, perhaps negative side effects from avobenzone, etc)

In summary, what did I think of this? I think this product did its job, but I think there are also better products out there on the market that might be even better and more affordable. I would wait awhile and check out other products before considering buying the full-sized version of this one.

Still searching for that ideal sunscreen!

Source: 1 / 2
Past posts (this is getting too long!)

Part 1: Introduction

Part 2: Vanicream SPF 30

Part 3: Solbar Avo SPF 32

Part 4: Pur~lisse Essential Daily Moisturizer SPF 30

Part 5: Coppertone Sport SPF 30

Part 6: Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 15

Part 7: Shiseido Sun Protection Eye Cream SPF 32
Part 8: Clean & Clear Finishes Oil-Free Pore Perfecting Moisturizer w/ SPF 15

Part 9: Coppertone Oil Free Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30
Part 10: Wrap-up (Season 1)
Part 11: Season 2 Start - MAC Studio Moisture Fix SPF 15
Part 12: Avon Anew Rejuvenate 24-Hour Eye Cream, SPF 25
Part 13: Articles
Part 13.1: Articles (further updated)
Part 14: Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunblock SPF 30

Review: Carmex Moisturizing Lip Balm, SPF 15 in Cherry

Quick review on a product for your lips!




-Price: 10 g for ~$2, available at most drugstores, Walmart/Target/Kroger/etc.
-Current use: at night and day (if it's a particularly dry day and my lips are chapped)


Ingredients (according to Walgreens): 

Active Ingredients 
Octinoxate - 6.4 %Sunscreen , Oxybenzone - 5.4 %Sunscreen

Inactive Ingredients
Beeswax , Camphor , Cetyl Esters , Flavor , Lanolin , Menthol , Paraffin , Petrolatum , Phenol , Theobroma Cacao Seed Butter (Cocoa)

Pros:
-Very moisturizing/emollient
-SPF 15
-Use a little bit (a little goes a long way)
-Lasts a long time
-Very affordable
-Has cocoa

Cons:
-Super sticky
-Has phenol - this is what is used in Gross Anatomy labs for preservation! (I believe it's used in this product as a preservative)

Would I repurchase this? As of now, it seems like a practical option. If someone is looking for something super emollient for lip moisturization, it's useful. However, I'm still looking around and trying out different products!

Source: 1 / 2

The Sunscreen Project: Part 13.1 (Update further)

This is an addendum to the original article posted about sunscreen and sunblocks. I've just looked at some articles and discovered errors that I'd like to correct, as well as add some new information. Hence version 13.1!

First: OTC Sunscreen is regulated by the FDA (US Food and Drug Administration), not USDA (which is the United States Dept of Agriculture).


Here are some of the new regulations (in summary form):

• Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hrs
• "Broad spectrum" = covers both UVA and UVB
• No more designation as "waterproof", "sweatproof", or "sunblock" - everything is now officially sunscreen only
• Must be labeled as only "water-resistant" for 40 or 80 min before reapplying
• This rule applies to OTC sunscreen as well as cosmetics and moisturizers with SPF
• Maximum SPF value that can be labeled is 50+, because SPF higher than 50 has extremely low marginal yield (aka greater incremental protection)
• Currently, the data about sunscreens in the form of spray isn't comparable to creams, lotions, etc

Other nuggets:

• Don't apply adult sunscreens on kids and babies! Their skin is more sensitive to ingredients...
• Don't store sunscreen in places that have direct sunlight, such as your car, open in the bathroom, near a window, or in the fridge with your food. It will make the active ingredients (and potentially other ingredients) break down faster.
• The sunscreen ingredients that provide considerable protection against BOTH UVA and UVB rays are: dioxybenzone, menthyl anthranilate, oxybenzone, sulisobenzone, titanium dioxide.
• The sunscreen ingredients that provide extensive protectino against BOTH UVA and UVB rays are zinc oxide, tinosorb M, and tinosorb S. 
• These two tinosorbs (listed in the previous bullet point) are actually both physical and chemical sunscreens - best of both worlds! Unfortunately tinosorb M and S are not yet approved by FDA so products with these are sold only in Europe and Asia. You can get them in certain sunscreens by Avene and Eucerin.

Here are some links that will explain things better:
FDA - Sunscreen
FDA - New OTC Sunscreen Product Requirements

Articles from Viva Woman:
Tips on Sunscreen Protection & Application
Zinc oxide vs Titanium oxide protection
New FDA Sunscreen Labeling
Alcohol in sunscreens
Sensitive vs Sensitized skin
Adults using kid + baby sunscreens
Places not to store your sunscreen
Vivawoman's opinion on eye sunscreen
Effective active ingredients in a sunscreen
The best & safest sunscreen ingredients

Miscellaneous:
Best Facial Sunscreens - Totalbeauty.com

Past posts:

Part 1: Introduction

Part 2: Vanicream SPF 30

Part 3: Solbar Avo SPF 32

Part 4: Pur~lisse Essential Daily Moisturizer SPF 30

Part 5: Coppertone Sport SPF 30

Part 6: Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 15

Part 7: Shiseido Sun Protection Eye Cream SPF 32
Part 8: Clean & Clear Finishes Oil-Free Pore Perfecting Moisturizer w/ SPF 15

Part 9: Coppertone Oil Free Sunscreen Lotion, SPF 30
Part 10: Wrap-up (Season 1)
Part 11: Season 2 Start - MAC Studio Moisture Fix SPF 15
Part 12: Avon Anew Rejuvenate 24-Hour Eye Cream, SPF 25
Part 13: Articles
Part 14: Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Sunblock Lotion SPF 30