Showing posts with label Sephora. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sephora. Show all posts
Stuff I've used up + mini-reviews
I don't normally do these posts often (because it takes me quite awhile to use stuff up) but here's a list of recent products that I've finished as well as my thoughts on them.
EOS Lip Balm in Strawberry Sorbet - this is quite nice of an addition to the (giant pile of) lip glosses/balms I currently use. It's very light-weight and tastes/smells like strawberry shortcake. It's also very pretty, does not make my lips feel gritty, and glides on smoothly. The downside is that the bottom of the product is very hard to get out - I literally had to cut apart the bottom plastic holder using scissors and scoop out the product into another lip balm stick (think Chapstick tube) in order to use all of the product up without any waste. Kind of inconvenient. Also, although the packaging is cute, it is a bit hard to store in a bag or other place with its cylindrical design.
Yes to Grapefruit Naturally Smooth Lip Balm - this is also a light-weight lip balm that has kept my lips quite happy over the course of a few months. It's got a slightly heavier feeling than the EOS lip balms but also provides more moisturization to the lips. The grapefruit smell is very appealing (perhaps not the people who take meds messing with the Cytochrome P450 system though... grapefruit essentially cancels out the meds' effects... more on that later). I received this product a PR campaign/giveaway. This product costs $2.99 a pop and honestly doesn't last that long (much less than the EOS lip balm) so I can't say it's truly efficacious when it comes to pricing.
Kipling Large Organizer Brownie Wallet in True Blue - I received this wallet as a birthday present from a dear friend 4 years ago and have used it steadily since then. Recently though, the wallet started coming apart (the inside walls/shells became flimsy) and also, the wallet became stained and gross due to stuffs I've put in my purse over the years. I tried washing the wallet but it just came completely apart. It's a very good nylon wallet with 12+ pockets, a coin compartment, and a TON of space for bills, ID cards, and other stuffs. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who doesn't want to store his/her checkbook but wants to store just about everything else in it. It was definitely worth it as it costs $26 on Amazon and lasts for years (4 years in my experience).
ELF Studio Tone Correcting Powder - I bought this powder 4 years ago and, despite regular use, only recently finished it. That's a long time! This $3 product has served me well over the years, helping correct skin tone and balancing out the yellow sallow/reddish/bluish areas of my skin.
Here's what it ended up looking like at the end:
Neutrogena Make-up remover Cleansing Towelettes - These little buggers are very good at removing makeup. Even waterproof makeup. They've been very useful during my recent travels and also are pretty soft on the skin. The downside is that they're pretty hard to store as (1) you have to put them upside down in order for the cloths to retain their moisture and (2) the top sticker to keep the wipes inside the pack is pretty flimsy (think baby wipe boxes to keep baby wipes from getting dried up). They're pretty cheap at Costco at $14-18 for 114 wipes so honestly, as long as you store them upside down, they're a bargain.
Yes to Grapefruit Correct & Repair Facial Wipes - these makeup wipes are also very effective at removing makeup but they're a bit pricier than the Neutrogena ones. At $5.99 for 25, they are 24 cents each as compared to the Neutrogena ones (15 cents each). I personally don't like these as much because the grapefruit scent/chemicals burn my eyes when used around the eye area. Sensitive skinned people bewarned.
FTC: The Yes to Grapefruit lip balm was generously given to me by Yes To via PR and a giveaway. All other products were purchased with my own money or gifted by family/friends. All opinions are honest and my own. I am not sponsored by any companies (although it would be nice to be sponsored!)
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EOS Lip Balm in Strawberry Sorbet - this is quite nice of an addition to the (giant pile of) lip glosses/balms I currently use. It's very light-weight and tastes/smells like strawberry shortcake. It's also very pretty, does not make my lips feel gritty, and glides on smoothly. The downside is that the bottom of the product is very hard to get out - I literally had to cut apart the bottom plastic holder using scissors and scoop out the product into another lip balm stick (think Chapstick tube) in order to use all of the product up without any waste. Kind of inconvenient. Also, although the packaging is cute, it is a bit hard to store in a bag or other place with its cylindrical design.
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Yes to Grapefruit Naturally Smooth Lip Balm - this is also a light-weight lip balm that has kept my lips quite happy over the course of a few months. It's got a slightly heavier feeling than the EOS lip balms but also provides more moisturization to the lips. The grapefruit smell is very appealing (perhaps not the people who take meds messing with the Cytochrome P450 system though... grapefruit essentially cancels out the meds' effects... more on that later). I received this product a PR campaign/giveaway. This product costs $2.99 a pop and honestly doesn't last that long (much less than the EOS lip balm) so I can't say it's truly efficacious when it comes to pricing.
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Kipling Large Organizer Brownie Wallet in True Blue - I received this wallet as a birthday present from a dear friend 4 years ago and have used it steadily since then. Recently though, the wallet started coming apart (the inside walls/shells became flimsy) and also, the wallet became stained and gross due to stuffs I've put in my purse over the years. I tried washing the wallet but it just came completely apart. It's a very good nylon wallet with 12+ pockets, a coin compartment, and a TON of space for bills, ID cards, and other stuffs. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who doesn't want to store his/her checkbook but wants to store just about everything else in it. It was definitely worth it as it costs $26 on Amazon and lasts for years (4 years in my experience).
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Here's what it ended up looking like at the end:
I had to throw this product out because (1) It was loosing its sanitary purposes and (2) it was not working very well as a (not finely milled) loose powder product. It was also getting hard to store because the powder was coming off and making "poofy clouds" everywhere whenever I used it. I did like it though, and it had a good run.
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Smashbox Full Exposure Mascara Mini - I received this product as part of a Sephora gift with purchase awhile ago. This mascara is the best non-waterproof mascara I have ever used. Seriously. It gives a ton of volume as well as length, and doesn't give crazy racoon eyes at the end of the day. I guess the thing is that high-end non-waterproof mascaras work better than their drugstore counterparts (at least in my recent experience). It is quite pricey though - $20 for the full-size product on Sephora's website.
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Avalon Organics Vitamin C Renewal Vitality Facial Serum - I purchased a pack of 2 on Amazon. (Amazon is the place to go!) I had seen this product on shelves at Whole Foods but for the longest time hesitated to purchase the product due to its rather pricey price. Honestly, I'm kind of ambivalent about this product because (1) at the beginning it made me break out due to its long list of oils and other ingredients and (2) there are other, more pure vitamin C products out on the market. Granted, I do like the fact that the product was not tested on animals (do humans count as "animals" in this case?). I'm not exactly sure whether it makes my skin have less wrinkles and other anti-aging effects (as evidenced by the amount of wrinkles on my forehead) but it does provide a power boost for my sunscreen every morning.
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Tree Hut Shea Moisturizing Shower Wash in Brazilian Nut - this product literally reminds me of chocolate. Breathable chocolate in body wash form. Given my chocoholic tendencies, I love it. I bought this product on sale at Kroger for $3.84 a pop and really enjoy the moisturizing texture and tasty aroma. This product is usually pretty pricey for a drugstore body wash (around $7.50 a bottle) but honestly at the discounted price, it is definitely worth it.
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Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Perversion - this is one of the best waterproof eyeliners I've ever used. It is very matte black and stays on a long time. I like using this in my waterline as well as as an over-the-eye eyeliner when wearing glasses. It also brings ton of color output when tightlining. I got this as part of an Ipsy bag quite awhile ago. The product is super creamy and glides on like butter. I've even used it to apply Halloween makeup on dpod_the_owl (dressed up as a pirate)! It is a pricey product at $20 a pop, but I honestly think it's worth it.
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Neutrogena Make-up remover Cleansing Towelettes - These little buggers are very good at removing makeup. Even waterproof makeup. They've been very useful during my recent travels and also are pretty soft on the skin. The downside is that they're pretty hard to store as (1) you have to put them upside down in order for the cloths to retain their moisture and (2) the top sticker to keep the wipes inside the pack is pretty flimsy (think baby wipe boxes to keep baby wipes from getting dried up). They're pretty cheap at Costco at $14-18 for 114 wipes so honestly, as long as you store them upside down, they're a bargain.
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Yes to Grapefruit Correct & Repair Facial Wipes - these makeup wipes are also very effective at removing makeup but they're a bit pricier than the Neutrogena ones. At $5.99 for 25, they are 24 cents each as compared to the Neutrogena ones (15 cents each). I personally don't like these as much because the grapefruit scent/chemicals burn my eyes when used around the eye area. Sensitive skinned people bewarned.
Okay, so there were the products that I used up recently. Feel free to give any of them a try!~
(And if you do, please leave a comment describing your experience!)
~Lucy
DIY Hair Ties
Ribbon hair ties are now all the rage. They have replaced hair bands as the next "cool ponytail thing". They are cool because they not only are stylish, but they also tie hair up without kinking it.
They are also super expensive, however, When I went on Sephora's website the other day, I found that the cheapest ones were sold at $9 for a pack of 8. That's $1.125 for each hair tie. Ridonculous.
I then thought, "why not let this be the next DIY project?"
Thus, adapting from instructions from The Spohrs Are Multiplying, I bought some 5/8'' fold over elastic on Etsy and went into action.
The elastics were a grab-bag of colors, all 1 yard long. I divided each elastic into 4 even pieces of about 9 inches in length. Then I folded each nine-inch piece in half and tied off the end.
I bought a package of 40 yards of elastic for $10. Adding shipping cost me only $13.95. 40 yards yields 160 hair ties. That's about 10 cents for each hair tie. Sephora came out with a 1254.48% mark-up!!!
I'm gonna give these to friends as little stocking stuffers and other gifts. I think it'll be fun combining different colors. Such a cute, fun DIY that's also super affordable, and saves your gal pals' $$ as well!
They are also super expensive, however, When I went on Sephora's website the other day, I found that the cheapest ones were sold at $9 for a pack of 8. That's $1.125 for each hair tie. Ridonculous.
I then thought, "why not let this be the next DIY project?"
Thus, adapting from instructions from The Spohrs Are Multiplying, I bought some 5/8'' fold over elastic on Etsy and went into action.
The package of elastics
The elastics were a grab-bag of colors, all 1 yard long. I divided each elastic into 4 even pieces of about 9 inches in length. Then I folded each nine-inch piece in half and tied off the end.
Voila! Beautiful hair ties!
I bought a package of 40 yards of elastic for $10. Adding shipping cost me only $13.95. 40 yards yields 160 hair ties. That's about 10 cents for each hair tie. Sephora came out with a 1254.48% mark-up!!!
I'm gonna give these to friends as little stocking stuffers and other gifts. I think it'll be fun combining different colors. Such a cute, fun DIY that's also super affordable, and saves your gal pals' $$ as well!
Review: Philosophy Time In a Bottle
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| Source FTC: I received a sample of this product from Sephora. I am not compensated for any reviews. |
You know that phrase that goes Tempus fugit? For those who don't know Latin, it means Time Flies.
And boy oh boy does it fly.
I've noticed this fact especially recently in the last few years. Med school has been very time-consuming and stressful, and my face shows its effects. People have always stated that I have a youngish-looking face and that although I look like "I am in high school" I could say that I was "30 when I am 40", and that I will enjoy it in the end.
Honestly though, I think time is catching up with me. Med school is med school. Stress is stress. And honestly, it shows.
In (a perhaps futile) effort to limit this aging, I have been trying different serums and other anti-aging products. Thus, when I received a generous sample of this product from Sephora, I was super excited to try it.
Ingredients:
Water, Dimethicone, Alcohol Denat., Bis-Peg-18 Methyl Ether Dimethylsilane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Peg-8, Butylene Glycol, Polyethylene, Glycerin, Dimethiconol, Methoxy Peg-18, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Seed Extract, Pongamia Pinnata Seed Extract, Angelica Archangelica Root Extract, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Peel Extract, Punica Granatum Fruit Extract, Plankton Extract, Ptfe, Bifida Ferment Lysate, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Squalane, Ascorbyl Palmitate, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Tocopherol, Polysorbate 60, Lecithin, Sclerotium Gum, Hydrolyzed Soy Flour, Retinyl Palmitate, Propylene Glycol, Caprylyl Glycol, Micrococcus Lysate, Bacillus Ferment, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Maltodextrin, Trisodium Edta, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein, Disodium Edta, Sodium Phosphate, Sodium Hydroxide, Potassium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Sorbic Acid, Adenosine, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Parfum/Fragrance, 1,2-Hexanediol, Silica, Xanthan Gum, Ascorbic Acid, Lactic Acid, Sodium Chloride, Alcohol, Acetic Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Bht, Mica, Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891).
A cursory glance reveals that there are a lot of vitamin c-based ingredients as well as silicone protectants and retinyl palmitate. I understand that these sort of serums are normally supposed to be worn underneath sunscreen but because this product contains retinyl palmitate, I would recommend against it as this can increase the chance of skin cancer. Arghs.
Anyway, onward with the review!
What did I think of it after a week's worth of use?
Pros:
- Very soothing product
- Not sticky, very moisturizing
- Did not break me out
- Made my skin feel tight and hydrated (even if it was temporary)
Cons:
- Retinyl palmitate issue (addressed above)
- Price. A whopping $74 for 1.3 fl oz!
Honestly if I had a lot of dough I would think that this baby is worth shelling out the bucks for. But unfortunately in my case the price is a doozy. Thus, onward with the next product to review!
Review: Wen By Chaz Dean Cleansing Conditioner in Sweet Almond Mint
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| Photo source FTC: I bought this product from a MyGlam bag purchase. I am not paid to do a review on it. |
Source: Got from MyGlam glam bag a long time ago (sample size, 2 oz).
This is supposed to be a "Cleansing Conditioner" -aka taking the place of a shampoo and a conditioner.
Ingredients list (from Sephora):
Water, Glycerin, Cetyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Prunus Serotina (Wild Cherry) Bark Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Vegetable Oil (Olus Oil), Panthenol, Butylene Glycol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Polysorbate 60, PEG-60 Almond Glycerides, Amodimethicone, Citric Acid, Menthol, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Fragrance, Limonene, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool, Geraniol, Benzyl Benzoate, Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde, Hydroxycitronellal.C960
There have been lots of rave reviews made on this product. People like it because it doesn't have parabens, synthetic dyes, petrochemicals, triclosan, and sulfates. This is because of the hyped "natural" movement - the thought that organic, non-GMO, un-adulterated products are better.
Overall? Not really worth it. My opinion is, that this product is overhyped.
This is supposed to be a "Cleansing Conditioner" -aka taking the place of a shampoo and a conditioner.
Ingredients list (from Sephora):
Water, Glycerin, Cetyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Prunus Serotina (Wild Cherry) Bark Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein, Vegetable Oil (Olus Oil), Panthenol, Butylene Glycol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Polysorbate 60, PEG-60 Almond Glycerides, Amodimethicone, Citric Acid, Menthol, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Fragrance, Limonene, Hexyl Cinnamal, Linalool, Geraniol, Benzyl Benzoate, Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde, Hydroxycitronellal.C960
There have been lots of rave reviews made on this product. People like it because it doesn't have parabens, synthetic dyes, petrochemicals, triclosan, and sulfates. This is because of the hyped "natural" movement - the thought that organic, non-GMO, un-adulterated products are better.
Overall? Not really worth it. My opinion is, that this product is overhyped.
When I first used this product, I realized I needed a lot of this product in order to cover all of my hair (which has grown pretty long by now). It's as much conditioner as I use on a daily basis.
Pros:
Smelled nice
Good ingredients (sulfate-free, paraben free, etc)
Cons:
Made my hair all oily
Really expensive ($32 for 16 oz)
Kind of frizzed up my hair
Kind of frizzed up my hair
Overall, I think that it is a product that doesn't work for me, since it doesn't really "clean" my hair, despite the name of the product. I think that it is really better to use a shampoo and a conditioner, which serve different functions separately. Plus, this is super expensive (Price on Sephora is crazy, $32 for 16 oz). I could get Tresemme conditioner (which works better, esp for co-washes) at $4 for 32 oz. Thus that's 16X more expensive!! I could get basically 3 years' worth of conditioner in Tresemme conditioners for perhaps 2-3 months' worth of Wen conditioner.
Bottom line? I will not purchase the full-size product.
The Sunscreen Project, Part 29: Dr. Jart+ Water Fuse BB Cream SPF 25 PA++
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| Photo source FTC: I received a sample of this product from Sephora. I am not paid for any reviews. |
I was introduced to the BB cream craze through several of my friends who swear by their use. Like many of you may already know, BB cream stands for "Beauty Balm" or "Blemish Balm" cream. It was originally created by a German physician who prescribed/sold it to her patients who wanted to recover from skin laser surgery. Known for their SPF, protection, brightening, illuminizing, and other properties, BB creams exploded across Asia, Europe, and eventually the rest of the world.
Asian BB creams are known often for their "mystical" properties as well as their notoriety for lack of many shades, specifically lack of BB creams for darker skin shades. American BB creams are notorious for being called as relabeled tinted moisturizers and overemphasis/overexaggeration of the all-encompassing effects that purport to give.
Due to these factors, I was quite hesitant to try this line of products. However, the other day I was at Sephora and a lady really recommended me to try this product, so I decided to go for it. After all, my skin has changed type (going to more of a dry type with the occasional pimple or two per month or something). Also, I did like the fact that it gave more coverage and allowed for me to have a more smooth face. In addition, I liked that a lot of them had a high SPF coverage.
Thus, this is the first BB cream I am reviewing.
Dr. Jart is an Asian brand that spread to the US en masse.
Ingredients list:
-Octinoxate, Octisalate, Titanium Dioxide: Provide sunscreen protection.
-Hyaluronic Acid and Sea Water Extract: Increase skin's moisture content.
-Aloe & Portulaca Oleracea : Soothe, calm, and treat redness.
Water, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Phenyl Trimethicone, Ethylhexyl Salicylate, SD Alcohol 40-B, Dimethicone, Talc, Dimethicone/PEG-10/15 Crosspolymer, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cyclohexasiloxane, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Sodium Citrate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Citric Acid, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sea Water, Ethyl Menthane Carboxamide, Silica, Hexyl Laurate, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate , Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate,Disodium, EDTA, Methylparaben, Chlorphenesin, Butylparaben, Iron Oxides, Titanium Dioxide.
Initial inspection of the ingredients list:
- Low SPF UVB coverage - it is listed at SPF 25, which is below the US FDA recommendation of SPF 30. This is provided by octinoxate and octisalate.
- Incomplete SPF UVA coverage - TiO2 only provides partial coverage for UVA rays, and is not as effective as zinc oxide at providing coverage.
- Lots of other parabens and other ingredients
- Interesting extracts of the citric acid, leaf juice of aloe, portulaca oleracea, etc (though their concentrations, efficacies, and potential synergistic effects with one another are not listed)
- Glycerin for humectant properties
- A bunch of silicone-based products to give that smooth-feeling skin and illumination effect
So what did I think when I actually tried this product?
Pros:
- Really smoothed out my skin
- Didn't make me break out
- Non-comedogenic on my skin
- SPF coverage - but note that this is because I apply these spf-based products very liberally - 1/4 teaspoon to cover my face, not just enough to cover my skin lightly since I want to get the full SPF effect.
Cons:
- Lack of multiple shades - this doesn't affect me as much, since I have relatively light skin (my friends consider me to be a "pale Asian" in Texas's Sunbelt and I am a NC-25 or NC-30 depending on summer vs. winter and how much I spend indoors due to med school and stuff). However, darker girls may have trouble finding optimal shades.
- Price - $34 for 1.7 fl oz. Wow. Well, this is supposed to be one of the better BB creams that Sephora offers, so perhaps the price is there.
Bottom line - although I do appreciate that this BB cream did seem to provide most of the benefits that BB creams are purported to be, I think I will pass this product due to its incomplete UV coverage and its lower SPF value. I am definitely willing to splurge a bit for SPF products but at the same time I want to make sure I get the most complete coverage I can with the SPF products I get.
The Sunscreen Project, Part 21
My next sunscreen in line to be reviewed is Origins A Perfect World SPF 25 Age-Defense Moisturizer with White Tea (1.7oz).
Source: I received two bottles of this at Sephora and Origins (separate shop) on Earth Day last year. There was a special promotion where you could recycle a bottle of one of your used-up beauty products (including shampoo, haircare, etc) and receive a 1.7 oz of either this or another moisturizer. I decided to go for two products with spf due to my concerns about Texas sun.
Ingredients (taken from NIH's DailyMed site):
Active ingredients Purpose
avobenzone 3.00% Sunscreen
octisalate 5.00% Sunscreen
octocrylene 2.70% Sunscreen
Inactive ingredients:
water; citrus aurantium amara (bitter orange) flower water, anthemis nobilis (chamomile) flower water ∙ butyloctyl salicylate ∙ ethyl macadamiate ∙ methyl trimethicone jojoba esters ∙ butylene glycol ∙ lauryl peg-9 polydimethylsiloxyethyl dimethicone ∙ peg-100 stearate ∙ glyceryl stearate ∙ citrus aurantium bergamia (bergamot) fruit oil1, citrus medica limonum (lemon) peel oil1, citrus aurantium dulcis (orange) oil1, cinnamomum camphora (camphor) bark oil1, mentha viridis (spearmint) leaf oil1, magnolia acuminata flower extract, iris pallida (orris) root extract, rosa damascena (rose) extract, citral, linalool, limonene ∙ camellia sinensis (white tea) leaf extract ∙ pinus pinaster bark/bud extract ∙ arabidopsis thaliana extract ∙ ascorbyl tocopheryl maleate ∙ oryzanol ∙ ergothioneine ∙ triticum vulgare (wheat) germ extract ∙ hordeum vulgare (barley) extract ∙ cholesterol ∙ caffeine ∙ mangifera indica (mango) seed butter ∙ butyrospermum parkii (shea butter) ∙ potassium cetyl phosphate ∙ cetyl alcohol ∙ ethylhexylglycerin ∙ linoleic acid ∙ squalane ∙ sodium hyaluronate ∙ caprylyl glycol ∙ dehydroxanthan gum ∙ silica ∙ ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp copolymer ∙ citric acid ∙ sodium stearate ∙ sodium dehydroacetate ∙ phenoxyethanol ∙ mica <iln36381>
Seeing that Origins is a company that prides itself on using "natural" ingredients, the schlew of oils and other extracts is not surprising.
Once again, here are the qualifications I look for in a sunscreen:
- Preferably inorganic (derived from zinc oxide or titanium oxide)
- At least SPF30 coverage (following US FDA recommendations)
- Doesn't break me out or give me a rash
- Preferably does not give me a white cast
- Does not contain oxybenzone or retinyl palmitate (future article coming out soon)
- Is affordable
Now, let's see how this sunscreen did.
Pros:
- No white cast
- No oxybenzone or retinyl palmitate
- Provides both UVA and UVB ray coverage (active ingredients include avobenzone, octisalate, and octocrylene)
- Provides the highest level of avobenzone possible, as allowed by US FDA guidelines (3%)
Neutrals:
- Uses organic sunscreen ingredients (listed active ingredients)
Cons:
- "Comedogenic-ness": When I first tried out this sunscreen, I applied it directly to my face. Not surprisingly, with all of the essential oils and extracts, I broke out. However, afterward, I decided to apply it just to my neck, and it was fine - no more breakouts.
- Price: This product sells for $39.50 (1.7 oz) on Sephora.com. Definitely very very pricey.
- Lower SPF coverage (SPF 25)
Overall, while I am definitely very thankful for my two tubes of product, I do not think I will purchase the product. It is definitely very pricey and there definitely seem to be cons that in some ways outweigh the pros.
An additional shout-out: To my best friend (who also got the sunscreen from the same promotion): What is your opinion of it? Lemme know via the comments, Skype, in person, or something!
An additional shout-out: To my best friend (who also got the sunscreen from the same promotion): What is your opinion of it? Lemme know via the comments, Skype, in person, or something!
Review: Clinique 3-Step Formula
Review: Clinique 3-Step Formula
I got a sample of these three from a Sephora order awhile ago.
1. Liquid Facial Soap - Oily: Skin types 3, 4 - $16, 6.7 oz
Pros:
2. Clarifying Lotion 3 - $12.50 for 6.7 oz
Pros:
3. Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel - $36 for 6.7 oz
Pros:
Overall, what do I think? Well, I think the product that was most worth it was the lotion. Definitely saw results. I don't think I'll buy any of the 3 - so expensive as of this point in my life (med student). I don't think the toner really did anything, although the soap did seem to work (but was drying).
Sources: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5
I got a sample of these three from a Sephora order awhile ago.
Just going to post some mini-reviews.
1. Liquid Facial Soap - Oily: Skin types 3, 4 - $16, 6.7 oz
Pros:
- Definitely cleansed my face (oily-combination skin)
Cons:
- Was very drying on my skin
- Price - very pricey
- Was a weird texture - I've never had really a "liquid facial soap" before - it's always been bar, cream, gel, etc. Guess I just have to get used to it.
2. Clarifying Lotion 3 - $12.50 for 6.7 oz
Pros:
- Didn't really have any? Didn't see/feel any differences with and without the toner
Cons:
- Price
3. Dramatically Different Moisturizing Gel - $36 for 6.7 oz
Pros:
- Very moisturizing without clogging my pores
- Very soothing
- Very easily absorbed by my skin
- Definitely helped my skin feel better
- Has a pump, which makes it easier to prevent germs from getting into than Clinique's Moisture Surge moisturizer (jar packaging)
Cons:
- Price
Overall, what do I think? Well, I think the product that was most worth it was the lotion. Definitely saw results. I don't think I'll buy any of the 3 - so expensive as of this point in my life (med student). I don't think the toner really did anything, although the soap did seem to work (but was drying).
Sources: 1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / 5
40 Question Beauty Tag
Note: I am not a beauty guru, but I just thought this would be fun!
Night: Clearasil Daily Cleanser w/ 2% salicylic acid
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!!!
DIY 1:1 Aspirin Mask
DIY Aspirin, Honey, Cucumber, Lemon/Lime juice mask
Mario Badescu's Strawberry Facial Scrub (testing)
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
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.
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
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 FoamNight: 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 MasqueDIY 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: Origins Checks & Balances Frothy Face Wash
Note: this post was written originally around January 2012. At that time I was still in college. Somehow it got lost in all of those posts I "posted"!
I got this wash as a Christmas gift from my mother. She bought it in a holiday set from Macy's (along with the A Perfect World facial moisturizer).
This product is, as the name describes, a very frothy, fluffy face wash. You squeeze out a little bit from the tube and just rub it all over your face. Afterwards, you gently massage it into your face, and then you wash it off. This product is ideally for combination and oily skin types. Or at least the lady at the Origins counter stand told me later on.
My first impressions? Pretty darn good.
The face wash, despite not having any "special ingredients" like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, actually cleaned my face pretty well. It got rid of all of the oil and even the excess makeup that I was not able to get off originally. Also, it really really cleaned my face well. My face LITERALLY felt "squeaky clean".
I usually use this twice at night in the shower, and once in the morning.
A great plus is that this is in a tube, which means that it is more hygienic than if it were in a jar. Also, a little bit goes a long way, and one bottle can last me a long long time.
This wash has gotten great reviews all over (you can check makeupalley.com for this), and I think it lives up to its reputation.
The only thing I don't like about it is its price. It costs $19.50 for 5 oz at Sephora, and I couldn't find it any cheaper anywhere else. I guess the good thing is that it lasts a long time, but the problem is that, since I am still in college and am about to go to med school soon, this is A LOT.
Would I repurchase it? If I had the $$, yes. But since I don't, I have to stick to cheaper things.
Who would I recommend this product to? People with oily or combination skin.
Would would I NOT recommend this product to? People with dry skin.
Have you guys/gals ever used this product? If so, do you like it or dislike it? Leave a comment!
<3
Interesting Sephora catalog.... + miscellaneous music
/
Sunday, January 8, 2012 /
Posted in
Music,
music video,
Random,
Sephora
Songs that are intriguing me right now:
"Esto es Africa", Shakira (from World Cup, 2010)
"This time for Africa", Shakira (from World Cup, 2010)
"Valentine Dance Tango", from Another Cinderella Story
"Bang a drum" from Another Cinderella story
"I want everything" by Hope 7
"World without danger" by Code Lyoko
"Dota" by Basshunter
"Till the world ends" by Britney Spears
Hautelook Philosophy Sale! + $10 off purchase!!!
Currently, Hautelook is having a sale on Philosophy products. In case you don't know, Hautelook.com is a site where you can get really nice products for discounted prices. I've gotten Urban Decay makeup and stuff from Jane Cosmetics for only a fraction of what they normally cost. The thing that Hautelook does is that it takes things that companies have in excess inventory and sells them at a discount price. Currently, there's a sale on Philosophy items (a really awesome skincare company that is also sold at Sephora).
Here's the link to get to Hautelook: Hautelook Invite
If you use this link, you get $10 off your first purchase! But hurry - I think this deal runs out pretty soon.
Happy shopping!
Here's the link to get to Hautelook: Hautelook Invite
If you use this link, you get $10 off your first purchase! But hurry - I think this deal runs out pretty soon.
Happy shopping!
Sephora Birthday Gift?
/
Tuesday, March 1, 2011 /
Posted in
Sephora
Today I just became a Sephora Beauty Insider. I was persuaded by my friends - lolz to peer pressure!
I found this on their website:
http://www.thecouponposse.com/2011/01/sephora-beauty-insider-free-gift-on.html
Apparently within 2 weeks of your birthday you can order anything on the Sephora website and get this for free with your order, or you can go into any Sephora store to pick it up. Wow - it looks totally awesome! I can't wait to get it for my birthday =D Yahoo to great gifts!
<3 <3 chynagrl
I found this on their website:
http://www.thecouponposse.com/2011/01/sephora-beauty-insider-free-gift-on.htmlApparently within 2 weeks of your birthday you can order anything on the Sephora website and get this for free with your order, or you can go into any Sephora store to pick it up. Wow - it looks totally awesome! I can't wait to get it for my birthday =D Yahoo to great gifts!
<3 <3 chynagrl
