...Where I Can Be Deeply Superficial...

WINNER: Blog Anniversary Give-Away

2011-11-27T22:13:00.002+08:00

Hullo hullo HULLO!

First of all, allow me to thank ALL of you,
who supported my

Blog Anniversary Give-Away

in one way or another.

By participating...
By Re-Tweeting it...
Spreading word about it...
Dropping by to have a peek...

Really...
In ANY way or form,

^_^ THANK YOU ^_^

Without further ado...

WINNER:

Sadia Chowdhury

Note: Sadia, Please contact me at suelynn76(at)hotmail.com!

HOLD IT!

BEFORE you click the "X" on this tab or your entire browser...
UnFollow and UnSubscribe to my Blog & YouTube respectively...
~ I'm a realist! ;) ~

LOOK . AT. THIS : The Lancome Absolu Voyage - Rose Edition

Lancome Absolu Voyage - Rose Edition

Beautiful, ain't it? ^_^

Well, dear readers,
you stand a chance of winning it
by entering my dear friend Kusanagi's inaugural Giveaway!

Do drop by and check her Blog out.
Minimal, no-frills...
Just straight-up, to-the-point, honest-to-goodness reviews and information <3
Can't get any better than that!

**
~(^_^)~
Kusanagi Girl,
Thank you for being there since Day One...
Thru thick and thin...
~(^_^)~
**

Thanks for reading <3

[CLOSED] Blog Anniversary Give-Away

2011-11-09T13:28:00.001+08:00

Hi my lovelies,

My Blog turns 1.25 years (as in 15 months) old this month
from the day of my first Blog Post last year
on Saturday 24 July 2010!

Thus, I'm organising a mini-GiveAway to celebrate this *ahem* momentous occasion ^_^

I was about to do an epic ramble
"thank-you-for-your-support-met-so-many-new-blogger-pals-shout-outs-the-list-goes-on".

However, I'm realistic enough to know
most of you would jump to the Give-Away part,
totally ignoring it ^_~

I'll just save my gushing for another day <3

** GENERAL RULES **
------------------------
1) Must be a SUBSCRIBER to my YouTube Channel
2) Must be a public FOLLOWER of THIS Blog

3) It would be nice if you [optional] FOLLOW me on Twitter @HelloSueLynn
(for immediate Updates and such)

4) ONE entry per subscriber
5) Open INTERNATIONAL
6) Parents' permission if you are under 16.
7) Winners will be chose by me - no random number generator this time!

** PRIZE **
------------
There will be ONE (1) winner,
who will receive the 3-item gift pack.

The Actual Products - yes, I need to amp up my photography skillzzzz =_=

** HOW TO ENTER: **
-----------------------

Comment here in this Blog Post the following:

[1] Your FOLLOWER name to my Blog

[2] Your SUBCRIBER name to my YouTube Channel

[3] WHAT is your Favourite "Book" or "Dance Genre" or "Food" (you can choose #1, #2, #3, or ALL 3! - up to you ^_^) and WHY?

Be CREATIVE with your answer because it will INCREASE your chances of winning!

So, a sample entry would look like this:

[1] Blog Follower Name: Sue Lynn

[2] YouTube Subscriber Name: SueLynn76

[3] Food: What could be more comforting than piping hot kimchi jjigae on a chilly night? With rice, noodles, anything goes. Kimchi jjigae isDA bomb :D

** GIVE-AWAY ENDS ON: **
--------------------------------

21 NOVEMBER 2011, 12.00 am Tuesday (MYT) (UTC/GMT + 8 hours)

Good Luck!<3

Blog Anniversary Give-Away Teaser ^_^

2011-10-29T11:03:00.004+08:00

A sneak peak to my Blog Anniversary GiveAway prizes ^_^

Check back on Halloween <3

Thanks for reading!

From UK With Love...Part Deux...

2011-10-13T10:19:00.000+08:00

Holla chicas!

Sorry for being MIA for ages,

but if you've been following me on Twitter... *heaves a huge sigh*

I'm currently going through a skin crisis!

Thus, I've not been really up to beauty blogging T_T

HOWEVER, these shiny fings just make me smile every time I look at 'em ^_^

Not to mention, they, sitting prettily around my NECK,
distract me from scrutinising my spotty FACE! :/

And I present to you,
Collective Loot from none other than Yasumi, AGAIN!

Since my first purchase
(read about it HERE - "From UK With Love"),
I've purchased several other pieces.

Also, since then,
she has created a BLOG and an ONLINE SHOP dedicated to these shiny fings.

Drop by and feast your eyes...
You might just find something which catches your eye O_o and heart <3

Behold! My Latest Purchases!

Lovingly packaged...

...labeled along with MY serial number ^_^

...along with a Note on Care and "The Emporium of WorshipBlues Guarantee"...

Juliet and her Romeo Necklace:

"For never was a story of more woe, than this of Juliet and her Romeo".

A composition in brass.

A tale told many times and told again here.

Romeo and Juliet brass and resin pendant with Swarovski pearls and Japanese tensha beads.

One of 2 creations

The Great Escape V2 Necklace:

"To come to the end of a time of anxiety and fear! To feel the cloud that hung over us lift and disperse - that cloud that dulled the heart and made happiness no more than a memory! This at least is one joy that must have been known by almost every living creature." Watership Down

A Flurry of 14K gold plated flowers, a golden safety pin and a cubic zirconium bow are the the final obstacles for my pair of escapee bunnies.

Limited Edition: This is a one off piece.

Worshipblues' Little Bird Necklace:

It's as though one of my shy little birdies flew right out of the Worshipblues Blog banner to perch upon this necklace.

A varied composition comprising of a matte black plated brass bird silhouette perches upon a tarnish resistant 14k gold plated ball chain.

Numbered Limited Edition

I've mentioned in my previous post about loving unique pieces...

How if I were to pay a princely sum, the piece should reflect its price...

The way Yasumi strings together several seemingly odd charms,
transforming them into a statement piece which conveys a thousand words...

And lately, since then, I've noticed one more thing worth mentioning...

How some charms are REMOVABLE,
thus every piece has an increased mileage...

Note how the uber romantic pendant in Juliet and her Romeo Necklace is removable
for low-key days when I want to wear the pretty necklace alone...
...or attach just the pendant on a simple chain... ^_^

The same goes for Worshipblues' Little Bird Necklace,
...where the lil' birdie could perch elsewhere for a change... ^_~

That's all for today, I guess...

Methinks the next post might be about my skin woes T_T

Thanks for reading and...my GIVE-AWAY is coming up VERY SOON!

Review: Suqqu Blend Color Eyeshadow EX-04 Toukaede (Fall 2011)

2011-09-24T19:32:00.000+08:00

Another Suqqu?
Yeap - so I got another Suqqu.
For one thing, I was rather disappointed with 03 Matsukasa
(*waves to Reene - the taupe (upper left colour) doesn't really agree with my warm undertones :/ *).

Also, I'd only seen ONE rather blurry swatch of Toukaede at that point of time,
and considering the astronomical $$$ to be plonked down, I preferred to wait ^_^

Gosh - the wait was so worth it for I Absolutely ADORE This Palette!

EX-04 Toukaede,

How Do I Love Thee? Let Me Count The Ways <3

COLOUR PAY-OFF

Similar to 07 Komorebi, colour pay-off is 5 outta 5 for a Japanese palette.

Swatches galore... ^_^

The Colour Pay-Off for every shade is fantastic.

TEXTURE

Shimmer particles in Japanese palettes have ALWAYS been a problem for me.

Eventhough I adore the softer colours in Asian palettes,

their attempt to compensate the soft colours by packing in shimmer (bordering glitter!?!?) particles

makes some palettes not work-appropriate.

And don't even get me started on fall-out... (Hello, Jill Stuart eyeshadows!)

Left to Right, Top to Bottom:
Colour A:

The shimmer particles here are just a tad larger compared to Colour B.

Nevertheless, they're still very fine and not at all gritty.

Also, I do think it's nice to have a slightly different finish to Colour B

just to amp-up the colour-combo/looks options...

*ahem - considering the $$$ factor, no?*
Nevertheless, I'm sucker for light golds, so...LOVE LOVE LOVE!

Colour B:

Shimmer particles - SUPER sUpEr super fine.

Feels very smooth.

A pleasure to apply... <3 <3 <3

And yes, unlike the taupe in 03 Matsukasa,
this warm shimmery slightly-bronzey peach compliments my skintone so well... *swoons*

Colour C:

Most matte eyeshadows have a sinister reputation of being

chalky, powdery and a bitch to blend.

NOT this beautiful dark, rich, burgundi-ish warm brown.
I really like how the brown has a hint of burgundy - makes the palette all the more outstanding.

A soft, creamy, "almost-emolient", matte powder.

Colour D:

Texture similar to Colour C.

FINISH

Left to Right, Top to Bottom:

Colour A:

A pale, shimmery, warm light gold ^_^

Like Colour B, the finely-milled shimmer imparts an iridescent sheen with slightly visible shimmer.

Colour B:

Due to the super-fine shimmer particles,

SLIGHT irisdecent sheeny slightly-bronzey peach!

No tin-man-like "metallic/frosty eyes" kind of effect.

Colour C:

Many true matte shades can end up looking flat and dull

due to the formulation - powdery, chalky consistency.

Since the texture of Suqqu's mattes are somewhat more "emolient",

it gives off this...inexplicable subtle "glow".

Colour D:

Finish similar to Colour C.

I think quite a few people have recommended 03 Matsukasa
as the ultimate starter Suqqu eyeshadow palette.

In MY opinion, if you are anything like me,
~ warm, yellow undertones ~
the taupe on the upper left could possibly end up looking... muddy T_T

On the other hand, EX-04 Toukaede is perfection on me ^_^

And that's my 2 cents worth ^_^

Thanks for reading! <3

Review: Lunasol Three Dimensional Eyes Fall 2011 (01 Neutral Beige & 02 Soft Beige)

2011-09-12T18:20:00.006+08:00

If you are a long time follower of my Blog (well, a little more than a year)
and my YouTube channel,
you might have noticed a Lunasol "drought"...~_^

Nope! I've NOT been holding out on you!

The fact of the matter is,
since Star Shower Eyes Fall 2009,
I pretty much stopped Lunasol-hauling.
*hums (...I've Lost That -Lunasol- Lovin' Feeling...*)

(...final haulage being Nature Color Eyes Spring & Summer 2010...)
(...Oh! And the solitary Ocean Scene Summer 2011 in EX-01 Shelly Ocean...)

I still like Lunasol's offerings in terms of Colour-Combinations,
with the EXCEPTION of Ocean Scene Spring 2011:
~ seriously, must there be a BLUE in EVERY . SINGLE . PALETTE ?!?!

Texture-wise, in MY opinion anyway,
with each subsequent collection since Star Shower Eyes Fall 2009,
...shimmer particles grew larger...and lArGeR...and LARGER...
...resulting in increasingly gritty gRiTty GRITTY eyeshadows...

Thus, it's no surprise I boycotted...erm...I mean forwent :P
3 whole collections, which is incredibly out of my character ^_~

~ Star Shower Eyes Fall 2009

~ Aurorized Eyes Fall 2010

~ Ocean Scene Eyes Spring 2011

HOWEVER, Three-Dimensional Eyes Fall 2011
TOTALLY rekindled my LOVE for Lunasol! ~(^_^)~

Three-Dimensional Eyes (01 Neutral Beige)

Three-Dimensional Eyes (02 Soft Beige)

Express Review:
If you've never purchased a Lunasol palette,
I HIGHLY recommend this Collection to begin with,
either in 01 Neutral Beige or 02 Soft Beige...

Allow me to break down the reasons for you
without having to describe each shade in the palettes...

I hope the photos and swatches are better this time round? :)


Image from: http://www.lunasol-net.com

[1]

Admittedly, Three Dimensional Eyes is not of such calibre it'd blow your socks off.

However, IF you want to get a feel of MOST, if not ALL, powder eyeshadow finishes/textures

Lunasol has come out with todate, this is IT.

There is a total of 5 distinct finishes:

~ A-a, D-a (...the Omni-Present Lunasol shimmer/glitter bomb to...)

~ A-b, D-b

~ B

~ C

~ A-c, D-c (...the most alluring pearlescent glowy sheen...)

However, if you REALLY wanna get anal, I can actually see slight differences between

~ A-b and D-b

~ A-c and D-c,

so would that make...*gasps*

~ A-a
~ D-a

~ A-b
~ D-b

~ B

~ C

~ A-c
~ D-c

8 finishes!?!? HA!

OMG! Colours A-b, A-c, D-b and D-c are almost devoid of shimmer,
and if any, super-finely-milled shimmer!
^_^ Oh joy! ^_^

It's been centuries :P since Lunasol came out with non-shimmery colours!!!
^_^ Oh happy happy joy joy! ^_^

And no - they're not chalky mattes. Pearlescent sheen, anyone? <3 Major love!

[2]

The colour-combos are neutral, versatile, highly usable and full-proof (well, 01 & 02, at least).

Also, with one palette, you could easily produce Day or Night looks,

and transitioning between the two is pretty darn easy.

[3]

For obvious reasons, with all the possible combinations/permutations from 8 colours,

very economically viable, no?

Thanks for reading! <3

P.S. I think I went a little font-colour-crazy today :P

Review: Suqqu Blend Color Eyeshadow 07 Komorebi (Fall 2011)

2011-09-05T19:07:00.007+08:00

Suqqu?
A Suqqu?
A Suqqu Blend Color Eyeshadow?
Why NOW?

In all honesty, I've been wanting to try a Suqqu Blend Color Eyeshadow for ages. AGES!

However, the only online shop (which I trust) which carries Suqqu products...

Well, let's just say, I'm not ready to pay THEIR prices
when I know perfectly well what the ACTUAL retail price is in Japan...

And when the retail price is ASTRONOMICAL as it is...O_o

Also, the Suqqu Blend Color Eyeshadows were not calling to me,
UNTIL I saw 07 Komorebi Fall 2011!
Yes, light lime-ish green eyeshadows do that to me ^_~

There I was, squirming away, lemming, stalking the online shop, sighing... *vicious cycle*

Lamenting away I know nobody in Japan to Custom Purchase ("CP") 07 Komorebi for me...

And then, et voile! Olivia introduced her friend to me:
Ritsue ( Contact: ritsue.kasai[@]gmail[.]com )
(Remove brackets)

Ritsue offered to CP 07 Komorebi [and for good measure, 03 Matsukasa as well ;)]
at a minimal service fee!

Just to clarify, I'm in NO WAY benefiting from mentioning Ritsue, wokay?
It's just an option IN CASE you need somebody in Japan to CP.
I GET NO FREEBIES OR SPONSORED PRODUCTS, Y'ALL!
Well, apart from the fact that I paid less than purchasing from the above mentioned online shop HA! :D

And as they all say...The rest..is...History ^_^

How does 07 Komorebi fare? ^_^

Here goes nothin'!

COLOUR PAY-OFF

Bear in mind that Suqqu eyeshadows are densely-packed.
Does take some getting used to, but in no way is the quality compromised.

It's just formulated...differently ^_^ In a GOOD way
If anything, the quad is easier to use! ~(^_^)~

Anyway, a picture says a thousand words.

Let the swatches speak for themselves ^_^

As for my opinion, yes, the Colour Pay-Off for every shade is pretty darn good.

Especially when you take into consideration this is a Japanese eyeshadow quad

and I'm no pale lily (NC25-NC30)!

In real life, the green leans more lime-y/chartreuse-y than the photo's light olive! Damn camera!

My other "light greens"

TEXTURE

Shimmer particles in Japanese palettes have ALWAYS been a problem for me.

Eventhough I adore the softer colours in Asian palettes,

their attempt to compensate the soft colours by packing in shimmer (bordering glitter!?!?) particles

makes some palettes not work-appropriate.

And don't even get me started on fall-out... (Hello, Jill Stuart eyeshadows!)

Left to Right, Top to Bottom:
Colour A:

The shimmer particles here are just a tad larger compared to Colour B.

Nevertheless, they're still very fine and not at all gritty.

Also, I do think it's nice to have a slightly different finish to Colour B

just to amp-up the colour-combo/looks options...

*ahem - considering the $$$ factor, no?*

Colour B:

I LOVE green eyeshadows.

I'm a green-eye fiend.

(Only on my eyes though - not apparel!)

Sadly, due to my work, neutral eyes are the way to go...

Compared to all the Japanese Green eyeshadows showcased above,

this has the most beautiful finish and compliments me the best.

Shimmer particles - SUPER sUpEr super fine.

Feels very smooth.

A pleasure to apply... <3 <3 <3

And yes, THIS green is why I chose Komorebi as my First Suqqu Palette! *Notice the Title Case! HA!*

Colour C:

Most matte eyeshadows have a sinister reputation of being

chalky, powdery and a bitch to blend.

NOT this beautiful rich expresso brown.

I think the best matte eyeshadows in my stash are from Stila (Chinois, Dune & Puppy)

and Colour C's texture is comparable to them, if not better ^_~

A soft, creamy, "almost-emolient", matte powder.

Colour D:

Texture similar to Colour C.

FINISH

Left to Right, Top to Bottom:

Colour A:

First of all, let me just say this light golden bronze does NOT turn orange on me,

primer or no primer.

I'm not sure why, but most Lunasol bronzes (light, medium, dark, etc) turns oompa-loompa on me T_T

(ala MAC WoodWinked)!

This, What I See Is What I Get:

A light golden bronze, leaning ever-so-slightly peach. Makes sense? :P

Like Colour B, the finely-milled shimmer imparts an iridescent sheen with slightly visible shimmer.

Colour B:

Due to the super-fine shimmer particles,

this gorgeous near-lime green exudes more of a SLIGHT irisdecent sheen,

rather than "oh-pretty-shimmery/metallic/frosty eyes" kind of effect.

I'm guessing I can sneak a little of this into work on casual days

without struggling too hard at toning it down ^_^

Colour C:

Many true matte shades can end up looking flat and dull

due to the formulation - powdery, chalky consistency.

Since the texture of Suqqu's mattes are somewhat more "emolient",

it gives off this...inexplicable subtle "glow".

Colour D:

Finish similar to Colour C.

As for the million dollar question:
"Are Suqqu Blend Colour Eyeshadows (specifically 07 Komorebi & 03 Matsukasa) worth their premium price tag?"

Honestly, if you have a sizeable eyeshadow stash, NO - especially not 03 Matsukasa.
~ None of these colours are unique to the point of being un-dupeable. No unusual duo-chromes and such.
~ As for the texture, I can safely say it now ranks Numero Uno among my Japanese palettes. But NOT by a HUGE margin like the price tag :/
~ And the awesome green is favourite green todate.
~ Can I live without the green and Komorebi?
Yes! And I'll still be perfectly happy with my current stash. Of course, now that I own it... ^_^

However, if you, like in my case, have waited for ages to try Suqqu palettes,
and a quad combining my favourite eye colours (the awesome green! the AWESOME green!)
which I find versatile enough for day & night is launched
(in this case repromoted) i.e. 07 Komorebi,
YES, it's worth the RARE, OCCASIONAL SPLURGE.

Note: For the record, I like 03 Matsukasa, but I do have to admit a hint of regret :/
However, if you want a review, just gimme a holler!

And that's my 2 cents worth ^_^

Thanks for reading! <3

Review: Coffret D'or Fast Beauty Foundation UV BB Cream SPF33 PA++

2011-09-04T18:25:00.003+08:00

My apologies if the title of this Blog Post is rather misleading...

I've decided to INCORPORATE the Swatches & Review of the
Coffret D'or Fast Beauty Foundation UV BB Cream SPF33 PA++

INTO the following {{ Updated & would constantly be updated, so bookmark it }} Post:

BB Creams for Darker Skin with Yellow Undertones
Reviews & Swatches

(click HERE)

The reasons being:

~ googlers' ease in locating the Short Reviews and the Swatches of the BB creams I recommend for darker skin with yellow undertones,

~ centralised comparisons between the recommended BB creams.

Products - Left to Right:

[1] Coffret D'or Fast Beauty Foundation UV BB Cream #02 Natural Tone SPF33 PA++

[2] Coffret D'or Fast Beauty Foundation UV BB Cream #03 Healthy Tone SPF33 PA++

Swatches - Left to Right:

[1] Ishizawa Nanoce BB Moist Cream in #2 Healthy Ochre

[2] Coffret D'or Fast Beauty Foundation UV BB Cream #02 Natural Tone SPF33 PA++

[3] Coffret D'or Fast Beauty Foundation UV BB Cream #03 Healthy Tone SPF33 PA++

By the way, I've updated my Hada Labo BB Cream & Emulsion Review
to include #1 Natural Beige
in both Emulsion and Cream form.

Left to Right:
- Ishizawa Nanoce BB Moist Cream in #2 Healthy Ochre

- Hada Labo BB Moist Emulsion in #1 Natural Beige SPF50 PA+++
- Hada Labo BB Moist Emulsion in #2 Natural Ochre SPF50 PA+++

- Hada Labo BB Moist Cream in #1 Natural Beige SPF 32 PA+++
- Hada Labo BB Moist Cream in #2 Natural Ochre SPF 32 PA+++

Thanks for...errmmm...Clicking! <3

Review: Chanel Topkapi Eyeshadow Quad and Chanel U.S. vs Chanel International Eyeshadow Quads

2011-09-02T22:18:00.003+08:00

Thanks to my honey bunny Jolyn,
I managed to get my grubby paws on...

...*hold your breath*...

...*drumroll,please*...

TADAAA!

I present to you...

...the Chanel Byzance Topkapi Eyeshadow Quad!

I know, I know...

You've probably read a million, if not a gazillion, reviews on this gorgeous eyeshadow quad already ~_^

And I totally agree with Temptalia's take on it (CLICK for comprehensive Review and Swatches).

Thus, instead of torturing you with yet ANOTHER review...

Allow me to expound on the differences between:
~ Chanel Eyeshadow Quads manufactured for the U.S. ("Chanel U.S.")
and
~ Chanel Eyeshadow Quads manufactured for pretty much the rest of the world ("Chanel Int.")

Exhibit A - Kaska Beige vs Kaska Beige O_o

Left: Chanel U.S. Kaska Beige (Stock Picture)
Right: Chanel Int. Kaska Beige (My icky quad)

Left: Chanel U.S. Kaska Beige (Temptalia's Review and Swatches)
Right: Chanel Int. Kaska Beige

I've always been curious about the differences

between Chanel U.S. eyeshadow quads and Chanel Int. eyeshadow quads.

Especially with Temptalia singing praises about HER Kaska Beige,

while the most you'd get out of me on MINE is:
"It's one of the two Chanel quads (todate) worth buying at my corner of the world;
the other being Nymphea." ^_^

Granted, Topkapi may not be the best eyeshadow quad to base this comparison on

since Temptalia declares Topkapi:

"...is one of the highest quality eyeshadow palettes I’ve seen the brand put out in the time that I’ve been reviewing their products (about four years)...

...smooth, buttery shades with absolutely zero powderiness that apply like silk and deliver rich color payoff in a single pass. The texture is different from normal Chanel eyeshadow quads–much richer..."

However, it's the ONLY Chanel U.S. eyeshadow formulation I own,

so...it'll have to do... ^_~

Each shade in Chanel Int. eyeshadow quads is dome-shaped and the eyeshadow itself baked;
thus, enabling it to be used wet or dry.

Sadly, although most baked products yield relatively better colour-payoff,
it isn't the case for Chanel Int. eyeshadow quads.

In general, the texture is rather chalky and powdery;

Feels hard, very densely-packed and NOWHERE as soft and silky as Chanel U.S..

Some shades, or in some cases, the whole quad, are too sheer even for my taste O_o

Which is why I own a grand total of only TWO Chanel Int. eyeshadow quads
- extremely UN-impressed considering its price point, not to mention the branding!

I mean, Hello! It's Chanel! ~_~

Now, on the other hand, Topkapi simply blows the Chanel Int. eyeshadow quads outta the water
in every single aspect.

Assuming regular Chanel U.S. eyeshadow quads are slightly inferior to Topkapi,

I believe they might still be SUPERIOR to Chanel Int.

It's mind-boggling why these quads are formulated differently.

Any input on that?

Thanks for reading! <3

Haul: More Coffret D'or 3D Glossy Eyes!

2011-08-24T22:17:00.001+08:00

Ohhhh...Is it any wonder that after declaring my LOVE <3
for the Coffret D'or 3D Glossy Eyes in 02 Feminie Brown in a previous review,
I . Just . Had . To...
get more?

And yes - I got 3 more!!! ^_^

Full Review is HERE, which includes 02 Feminine Brown :)

Awww...One Big Happy Family <3

01 Nudy Brown

Spectacular swatches available HERE!

04 Pink Violet

Spectacular swatches available HERE!

05 Aqua Blue

Spectacular swatches available HERE!

Thanks for looking! <3

Review: Jill Stuart Mix Blush Compact #15 Sweet Lock Limited Edition

2011-08-20T20:05:00.007+08:00

"Limited Edition" - Jill Stuart ("JS") limited edition items are highly sought after.
Fortunately for me (and my wallet!),
I'm a fan of their Mix Compact Blushes only ^_^

JS Fall 2011 offers the Mix Blush Compact in #15 Sweet Lock
(also the oddest Mix Blush Compact name todate...Hmmm...

Anyway, THIS is one of the items, Limited Edition or not,
after clicking the irrevocable CheckOut button,
I knew I would either go "AWEsome" or "GRUEsome"
only when it arrives +_+
*so I twiddled my thumbs and waited*

Goes unsaid that JS LE items has little extra details to draw you in...

Filigree detailing on the box...

Filigree detailing on the casing and brush...

I love JS Mix Blush Compacts' formulation;

(soft, silky smooth, barely any shimmer if any,

gives the most natural glow I've seen in powder blushes

- it's almost difficult to believe it's "powder" blush).

Not too keen on the princess-y/girl-y packaging, to be honest,

so excuse me if I don't sound too enthusiastic about the exterior :P

(hello *Urban Decay 15th Anniversary palette!*)

When I received this little baby a few days back,

my heart literally dropped...

I was disappointed to say the least because compared to the others,

Sweet Lock looks so...

BLAH!

Could you spot the ugly step sister among the bunch? ^_~

(Note: The brushes are detachable.)

Top to Bottom, Left to Right:

- 04 Hot Cherry

- 07 Lovely Tulip

- 10 Sweet Biscuit

- 12 Candy Orange

- 13 Milky Strawberry

- 15 Sweet Lock

It took me several days to deflower it,

because I was torn between giving it a chance
(thereby messing up the white overspray and devaluing it $$$ :P),

or just jump right in!

Well, jump right in,

I did,

after much contemplation!

Shades Top to Bottom, Left to Right:

- satin light pink, leans a little mauve

- shimmery light pastel (popsicle?) orange

(shimmer level similar to the light yellow in 07 Lovely Tulip,

which also happens to be the most shimmery of my whole JS stash)

- shimmery light taupe

(shimmer level similar to the light yellow in 07 Lovely Tulip,

which also happens to be the most shimmery of my whole JS stash)

- satin cool pink

Swirled together, it gives off a (slightly) warm light pink due to the pastel orange.

However, I'm pretty sure I would get a lot more mileage

out of Shade 1 & Shade 4 because shimmer on my cheeks

is just asking for my pores to be scrutinized up close & personal! O_o

Awesome Swatches HERE!

Note:

The white overspray does it absolutely NO favours, in my opinion,

because it LIGHTENS the blush (which is ALREADY light as it...)

It was only when I dug deeper BENEATH the white overspray,

butchering it,

that I got the true colour pay-off ^_^

Thus, there's no after picture because my Sweet Lock looks rather...mangled now ~_~

Thank God for persistence, eh? ;)

At least I know I know it's not gonna sit in my stash gathering dust ;)

Thanks for reading! <3

Review: Esprique Blend Dimensional Eyes (Deep), Esprique Blend Dimensional Eyes (Shiny), Coffret D'or 3D Glossy Eyes, Esprique Melt Fix Cheek

2011-08-10T23:26:00.009+08:00

Just a "MINI" COLLECTIVE haul..."MINI", well, compared to previous collective hauls... O_o
Since I've been focussing A LOT more on bases lately...

ALSO, I'm saving up for 3 RATHER pricey ($$$ *kaching*) eyeshadow palettes...

Care to make a guess as to what they are? ^_~

ESPRIQUE Blend Dimensional Eyes (DEEP) B-4

from Fall 2011

(Note the difference in the quad's Layout and Sponge Tip applicators compared to Summer 2011's palettes)

Spectacular swatches available HERE!

ESPRIQUE Blend Dimensional Eyes (SHINY) A-1

from Summer 2011

Spectacular swatches available HERE!

Express Review:

Esprique's eyeshadow palettes have always been the best in terms of Texture and Colour Pay-Off
compared to Coffret D'or and Lunasol.
Well, in my opinion, at least :/

And these prove to be no different.

However, there IS a slight difference in terms of Texture

when you compare these with palettes from Spring 2011 (Dual Gradation Eyes - review HERE).

Spring 2011 & Summer 2011 palettes seem to be softer, silkier and the shimmer particles finer,

whilst Fall 2011's shimmer is slightly coarser.

Nevertheless, the difference is rather very minimal...
In fact, I think the difference might only be noticeable
if you compare both of them side-by-side
with a very critical eye ^_^

Sadly, the colour combo's aren't exactly tempting :/

COFFRET D'OR 3D Glossy Eye

from Late Summer/ Early Fall 2011

02 Feminine Brown

Spectacular swatches available HERE!

01 Nudy Brown

Spectacular swatches available HERE!

04 Pink Violet

Spectacular swatches available HERE!

05 Aqua Blue

Spectacular swatches available HERE!

Awww...One Big Happy Family <3

Express Review:

OMG - This is such a huge improvement over Spring 2011's Eyes Appeal (review HERE).

Colour Pay-Off is great (*ahem* for a Coffret D'or palette).
Shimmer level is kept to a minimum...Barely any fallout which is always a problem when it comes to Coffret D'ors.

I ADORE this - more so than Spring 2010's Jewelcious Eyes
which WAS (HA!) my favourite Coffret D'or palettes todate O_O

I'm sooooooooo gonna get more of these <3 <3 <3
Or maybe not... *need to save $$$ for "those" palettes ;)*

Edited 24 August 2011: Yeshhhh, I got 3 more :P

ESPRIQUE Melty Fix Cheek BE300
from Summer 2011

Express Review:

I'm meh on this...

Creamier than Nars Multiples;

More opaque than Nars Multiple Tints;

Nice, but not exactly a must-have...

LAST BUT NOT LEAST,
And...a random purchase... ^_~

Long Story or a Lame Excuse, you be the judge:

So I was (s)trolling (along) the Dior counter...

As a Dior-phile, you know...

It's kind of a pilgrimage :P

Disappointed at the Summer 2011 "Electric Tropics Collection"...

Hey! I'm all for neutrals, but Rosy Nude and Rosy Tan didn't call to me... T_T

I was even MORE appalled at Fall 2011 "Blue Tie Collection" *eewww*

*Light Gray*...*Dark Gray*..NO grays work on me, so Booooo!

Swatching randomly, asking if some older palettes which I like are in stock...

And THEN, I caught sight of the beautiful...

Dior 5-Color Iridescent Eyeshadow in Pink May (909)

which I missed out on during the Spring Look 2008 "Flower Blossom Collection"

The lower right purple is to die for! Paired with the upper left peachy gold, O-Em-Gee ^_^

Express Review:

LOVE! MAJOR love!

Dior's Iridescent Quints have NEVER failed me todate... *swoons*

Thanks for reading <3

The Perils of Social Media

2011-08-07T21:20:00.002+08:00

Hi everyone,

This is a quickie blogpost I threw together
because after reading the article Paris tweeted (below),
and it struck home, BIG TIME O_o

I've always been teased as being too archaic and paranoid about
how LITTLE I choose to disclose about my private life online.

This may not go down well with some of my social media connections,
but I literally cringe at certain TMI statuses/tweets/etc.

I kid you not when I say thanks to an obsessive FourSquare-r,
I know where he banks
where he breakfasts every morning
where he refuels his car every week...

I kid you not when I say I would never hire a certain person because she
GRAPHICALLY bitches about her work in Twitter
bashes her co-workers abilities (or lack of thereof)
shops while on medical leave...

I kid you not when I say I'm able to track a couple's fight
which began in the A.M.
and subsequently ended by the P.M.
via no less than 25 FaceBook status changes, each!

ALSO, I kid you not when I say I DON'T even need to stalk them
to know this much about their lifes!

EVERYTHING was deduced via their social media presence.

Freaky, right? +_+

READ ON!

Source:
An article from "socialmediatoday - Home The world's best thinkers on social media"

An Open Letter to Teens re: Social Media
Dear Friend,

We haven’t met yet IRL (in real life), but I’ve seen you online and…
we need to talk.

You are growing up in a world where privacy is an old-fashioned concept. Almost everything you do is recorded, watched or monitored somehow.

We have cameras on our computers and cell phones, in stores, parks and on the highway. We check in on Facebook and Foursquare and whatever other check-in app you choose. Your phone goes everywhere you go, and the GPS on you phone always knows where you are.

Invasion of privacy used to mean my brother read my diary or the teacher intercepted a note about a cute guy and read it in front of the class. Times sure have changed.

Maybe you’ve been on social media since before you were born. (Did your mom or dad post those ultrasound pics on Facebook or MySpace or Flikr? I thought so.) Your whole life is there.

Yes, this is your world. It seems normal, I’m sure, because you’ve never known anything else. Maybe that’s why you don’t think twice before posting that crazy video on You Tube, or using those words (yes, the dirty ones that make your mother blush) on Twitter, and “OMG, did she really say that to him on Facebook?”

You’re in a relationship with social media and “It’s Complicated.”

Most of your parents don’t get it. (Sorry parents, it’s true.)

Well, let me tell you the hard truth that you don’t like to think about:

People are watching.
That creepy guy at the mall?
Yep, he’s online and he can read your Twitter stream.

That jerk you wish you never met?
He can Google you and get your life story in a flash.

Yes, Google indexes your Facebook feeds and your tweets and lots of other things you forget about 5 minutes after you post them.

The Internet never forgets.
I heard on the news that the FCC (people who set the rules for the Internet) have decided it’s OK for people to do social media background checks.

That means that 10 or 15 years from now when you apply for that really cool job that you’ve been dreaming about since your were, oh, the age you are right now, the people thinking about hiring you can pull up all those old message you forgot about and WOW…won’t they be surprised?

Is that what you want for your future you?

What about right now?
Would you stand up in front of a million people today and do that sexy dance or act like an idiot or talk about how you drank too much when you weren’t old enough to drink at all? Really? 1,000,000 people? What about 1,000 people? Or even 15 people? Probably not.

Well, tweet about it and you have the power to reach a lot more than 1 million people. PEOPLE. YOU. DON’T. KNOW.

Just because you don’t see them doesn’t mean they aren’t out there. They are. Ask former Rep. Weiner. Or Gilbert Gottfried. Lots of people saw their messages, and look where it got them.

It’s not a secret.
Maybe your mom and dad don’t know you are on Twitter. You went behind their back and created that account, so no one will ever know except the 1579 friends you’ve collected on Facebook (including the ones you’ve never met).

How many of those people are who they say they are? You can be anyone you want to be online, right? Do you really know your “friends”?

My point is that you need to be CAREFUL online.
I’m not that old, but the world sure has changed since I was a kid. People used to talk about being “street smart,” which meant that you knew a thing or two about life and weren’t likely to be taken advantage of or do something that could get you in trouble – and I mean real trouble, not just the kind where you get grounded for a week or have your phone taken away.

The new “street smart” is “social smarts.” There’s way more trouble online, just waiting for you if you’re careless. And you might not see it coming.

I’m not trying to scare you, but wake up.
Protect your privacy online. Be careful what you post. Think twice.

Would you want your grandma to see that? Then it probably shouldn’t be online.

It’s really hard to undo social media mistakes. Mom and Dad can’t bail you out. You can’t buy your way back from a bad reputation. Poor judgement will follow you, because the Internet never forgets and yes, people are watching.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m a big fan of social media. It’s a great tool for sharing, communicating and staying in touch. But any tool, when it’s misused, can create a lot of damage.

Don’t let that happen to you.

Have fun, but be careful out there. Please.

Thanks for reading <3

I hope this gave you an insight on how powerful social media is, and
how it can BACKFIRE on you +_+

Review: Urban Decay 15th Anniversary Eyeshadow Palette - Photo-Heavy!

2011-07-29T23:19:00.008+08:00

Before you ask, I got this thru SgDrugStore ^_^

Worth . EVERY . Single . Penny .

Serious. Dead Serious.

If you could only choose TWO items from the whole Urban Decay ("UD") line,
definitely get this and the infamous Naked palette ("Naked")!

Before I get into the nitty gritty of UD's 15th Anniversary Eyeshadow Palette ("15th"),
allow me clarify.

For I was pretty gungho in Twitter and a previous post...
preaching about my restraint on point makeup in recent months...
being on a base/BB cream frenzy and haven't been purchasing much eye makeup lately...
the latest being the Lunasol Summer 2011 EX-01 Shelly Ocean some time back...

And THEN, *badaboom badabang* - Out comes the OMG-UD 15th!

Yes, I grabbed it.
To reward myself over past few months' restraint on point makeup.
"I NEED NO JUSTIFICATION."

^_^
However, IF YOU do need to justify this purchase,
allow me to list them out for you.

Just because I'm incredibly loveable <3 HA!

PRICE POINT

Unlike past UD palettes (PRIOR to the Naked) which don't offer full-sized eyeshadows,

the 15th, just like Naked , you're getting a big bang for your buck.

Make that a GINORMOUS bang for your buck.

The Math: 15 full-sized eyeshadows x USD17 = USD255. You're paying USD55.

In other words, 15 NEW (and only in this kit) full-sized eyeshadows, each retailing for $17,
that’s USD255 worth of eyeshadows for USD55!

Capiche?

I ALREADY OWN A GAZILLION UD PALETTES

SELL THEM ALL! *kidding kidding* ^_~

Currently, I only own Naked.

Prior to that, I've purchased and sold in my BlogSale:

- WallPaper Shadow Box

(meh - I loved Asphyxia & Last Call, though)
- Deluxe Shadow Box

(incredible texture and pay-off; but too colourful for my taste)
- Get Baked Palette

(love it, but very similar to Naked)

As for those huge Box of Shadows, I don't like them at all +_+

...the inconvenient size...

...too much unnecessary, if childish, packaging...LED lights?!?!?

...overlaps in shades...

...uber chunky glittery shadows shoved down your throat...

*ahem Uzi, Midnight Cowboy, Maui Wowie, Polyester Bride, etc*...

The 15th palette's most "glittery" shades (Midnight Rodeo & Midnight 15)
are NOWHERE as chunky as the above mentioned disasters...

Also, there's a perfect balance of neutrals and brights, darks and lights,

and I can see myself getting a lot of use out of it! <3

PACKAGING

Awesome...

Awesomeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee...

Awesomeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee...

Especially if you love UD lippies packaging! ^_^

LIMITED EDITION ('NUFF SAID, YO)
~ ~ ~

PICS! PICS! PICS!

This is gonna sound like a luxury watch (?) advertorial

Sorry - Can't help gushing +_+

-----------------------------------------

...Opulent, Sleek, Luxe Faceted Jewel “UD” On The Cover...

...Eye-Grabbing, Laser-Cut, Gunmetal Filigree Edging & MetallicFinishes...

...A Full-Sized Mirror Inside The Cover Of The Palette...

...The Gorgeous Treasure Chest Is Reusable...Very Eco-Friendly, no? :P...

SHADE DESCRIPTIONS & SWATCHES
(GREEN - UD's description; PINK - Temptalia's description, PEACH - My description :P)

Shade Breakdown

(GREEN - UD's description; PINK - Temptalia's description, PEACH - My description :P)

L-R: Midnight Rodeo, Tainted, Deeper

Midnight Rodeo

- brown pearl with silver

- (subtle) glittery sparkly taupe brown
- not a true taupe; has a slight warmth to it. Glitter is NOT chunky (*ahem Uzi, Midnight Cowboy, Maui Wowie, Polyester Bride*)

Tainted

- pale matte purple with golden shimmer

- pinked lavender with a subtle golden sheen
- a powdery cool pink, but there're some gold shimmer particles - this is the ONLY palette's #fail though

Deeper

- deep shimmery golden brown

- chocolate bronze with a subtle golden sheen
- more sheen/frost than shimmery

L-R: Midnight 15, JunkShow, MIA

Midnight 15

- oyster pearl with silver glitter

- frosted soft champagne with a hint of gray
- agree with Temptalia

Junkshow

- metallic bright pink with slight blue shift

- brightened fuchsia-purple with a fuchsia sheen
- I don't see the blue-shift. May need to use a blue/black base for the duochrome to be apparent

MIA

- dark velvet brown

- dark brown with a soft copper base and light sheen
- agree with Temptalia

L-R: Vanilla, Omen, Ace

Vanilla

- creamy white gold

- smooth, shimmery pale white gold with yellow tones
- agree with Temptalia <3 this shade!

Omen

- metallic bright purple with blue shift

- blue-based purple with a subtle pink layer
- I LOVE lOvE UD's duochromes - SPECTACULAR. My favourite in this palette! <3 <3 <3

Ace

- dark gunmetal

- darkened gray with a subtle silver sheen
- gray with a sheen. What silver? Maybe ever the slightest silver sheen...

L-R: Flow, Evidence, Blackout

Flow

- soft peach shimmer

- soft peach with a frosty finish
- agree with Temptalia

Evidence

- deep metallic blue

- dark navy blue with a subtle sheen
- Beautiful. I don't think it's "navy" - more like a dark "cobalt" to me. One of the few blues I actually like!

Blackout

- darkest, must saturated black

- really deep, dark black with a matte finish
- black, but it's not THAT black at all and it took a great deal of product to get a swatch this dark! Zero's much richer.

L-R: Chase, Deep End, Half Truth

Chase

- bright bronze

- golden bronze with a frosted finish. much lighter version of Deeper (in this palette)
- agree with Temptalia

Deep End

- bright teal
- teal with a frosted finish
- agree with Temptalia

Half Truth

- deep greyish purple

- smoky purple

- frosty. Also, I think this has a slight duochrome quality. Some gray, some purple...Hhhmm...

SWATCHES from TEMPTALIA since my lighting and my photography skills suck =_=

L-R from TEMPTALIA: Midnight Rodeo, Tainted, Deeper

L-R from TEMPTALIA: Midnight 15, JunkShow, MIA

L-R from TEMPTALIA: Vanilla, Omen, Ace

L-R from TEMPTALIA: Flow, Evidence, Blackout

L-R from TEMPTALIA: Chase, Deep End, Half Truth

Hope this helps in your decision-making!

Thanks for reading! <3

Review: LUVIEW Crystal Mineral Pact

2011-07-27T09:52:00.001+08:00

The LUVIEW Story...
I've been exposed to numerous Korean brands unheard of
prior to being sponsored by Korea Cosmetics...
...Nude Cosmetics ... EverMiracle ... and many more to come...

Today, after reviewing the Crystal Cover BB Cream, another LUVIEW product...

CRYSTAL MINERAL PACT ("CRYSTAL PACT)"

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:

- Skin Type:
   ~ Normal
- Formula:
   ~ Pressed powder
- Coverage:
   ~ 4 out of 5 (According to LUVIEW's ratings)
- Functions:
   ~ UV Protection

   ~ Mineral-Enriched

- Product Description:

Inspired by crystal minerals, It keeps skin flawless and radiant hour after hour    ~ Jewelry formula
      Jewelry formula measurably reduce redness and keeps skin radiant
   ~ Ultra-fine satin powder glides on silky smooth, stays on comfortably, without feeling dry
   ~ Optimizes skin's varying tones to create a more even appearance.
      Buildable coverage lasts for hours, yet feels like nothing at all. Controls shine. In a ready-to-go, ready-
      to-perfect compact.
- Usage:
   ~ Take appropriate volume on the puff to apply it tenderly with light "pounding" (LUVIEW's word - not
      mine :p)

Note:

This is a VERY difficult product to review. Not because I cannot form an opinion on it,

but because, cliched as it may sound, one man's meat is another man's poison.

How much you love this HIGHLY DEPENDS on how you want your face to look after base application.

I, for one, love a glowy, natural finish to my skin.

I am extremely turned-off by super-matte finishes.

I mean, let's face it - no normal person's skin is COMPLETELY matte,

and in Malaysia's climate, IMPOSSIBLE, not to mention freaky-looking.

Thanks, Lina! <3

PACKAGING

The design concept is tres chic... ^_^
None of the cutesy, princessy frills ala Baviphat and Etude house...
nor the zen-like minimalist lines of Innisfree and Laneige.

What we have here is an elegant, metallic compact embossed with the brand and product name.
That's IT...
An article women in their 30s and beyond would't feel embarassed to whip out for touch-ups.

Best of all, for sanitary purposes, there is a clear plastic separator to protect the powder from your icky sponge. How cool is that?:D

SHADE/COLOUR MATCH

I was sent the darker of 2 shades available: #2 Natural Beige.

Alas, it's still too light for me :/ *story of my life*

The consolation is, it's still usable with a VERY light hand
...as a SETTING powder because of its *gasp* yellow-undertoned! YAY! ^_^
...as a POWDER foundation, NAY! T_T

TEXTURE

The texture feels rather powdery. I know, I know, it IS a powder foundation after all.

What I mean to say is, as a powder foundation,
it reminds me of the Laneige Sliding Pact EX

{which I'm none too fond of and it is more of a pressed setting powder},

except that this feels a tad creamier.

COVERAGE

Due to its Texture and Finish, the coverage is better than pressed setting powders.
However, the more coverage you want to achieve,
the more matte and powdery you would end up.

I would say medium coverage at most.

If you have great skin,
concealer is all you need with a light layer of this to set,
even out your skintone and control the oilies.

FINISH

Matte, COMPLETELY, UTTERLY matte. 'Nuff said.
I would love it {especially with its kick-ass packaging}
if it has some kind of luminosity/glowy/shimmer quality to it. Sigh. :(
Giant powder brush, MAC 187, nothing could redeem its matteness.

SCENT

None

Thanks for reading <3

FTC Disclaimer: The LUVIEW Crystal Mineral Pact was sent to me for review purposes on my Blog and/or my YouTube Channel. I was NOT paid to write this post, I am not affiliated in any way with the company, my opinions are my own and always honest.

No-Frills Skin Care Routine for Mature Acne-Prone Skin

2011-07-26T16:45:00.009+08:00

I've received quite a few queries about my skincare,

especially about why my face is up to 2 shades LIGHTER than my neck.

And the specific question is, "What WHITENING product are you using?"

I hate to burst your bubble with regards to the all-miraculous whitening product...

because I've NEVER used a product in my life to specifically lighten my skintone...

which is highly unusual considering I live in Asia...

where even deodorants come with whitening ingredients! ^_^

Have always been satisfied with the colour I was born with...

...and always will...

Well, granted there ARE moments of frustration when it comes to BB creams not matching me... ^_^

Anyway, the simple answer is:

My face is lighter than my neck due to YEARS of using benzoyl peroxide to keep my adult-acne in check.

Simple as that.

I only started the Anti-Aging & the Hydration parts 2 months ago!

Prior to that, I jumped straight to the OXY Oil-Control Moisturiser and the OXY 5% Benzoyl Peroxide after cleansing...

I kid you not when I say put my skin through that for more than 7-8 years.

It's only THIS year, when I turned 35...
that I forced myself out of my comfort zone...
to hydrate my poor parched skin =_=

(I suffered breakouts trying out various moisturisers and serums,
but the routine below seems OK so far...
And yes, I probably just jinxed myself by saying that! +_+)

Note:
If you are a skincare aficionado who thrives on layering 15 products,
you might as well stop reading now
because you will probably grab your heart in horror and say
"OMG! She's gonna shrivel up like a prune, if she hasn't already..." ~_~

Let's just say I look for efficiency in products.
If the product has the ingredient/ingredients I need (which I've highlighted in ORANGE),
I'll use it.
I don't need a long list of other optional/value-added ingredients (essential oils, etc) which ironically breaks me out.

I use the same products A.M. and P.M.;
the main difference is the AMOUNT of product used.

Note 2:
I am in the market for a good anti-oxidant serum.
Probably something with a high-concentration with Vitamin C,
so I'm open to suggestions! ^_^
Oh! And a non-greasy braod-spectrum sunscreen too.

Note 3:
I don't think I'm at all prune-like (for now :P),
but the main problems I face (HA! pun intended!) are:
- breakouts - I'm still very acne-prone - sneeze at me, and a zit'll probably pop up within 24 hours!
- scars from breakouts - I heal VERY very VeRy slowly.................cell turnover slows down with ageeeeee...
- deep naso-labial/laugh lines
- developing frown lines between my brows
- on the BRIGHT side, NO SIGN of crows feet yet! HA!

Anyway, on with the ROUTINE!


Cleansing Tool - Image from Official Clarisonic website

Clarisonic MIA in "Hope Is Beautiful" LE ("MIA")


Eye Makeup Removing - Images from products' official websites

1. Mandom Eye Makeup Remover
2. Neutrogena Eye Makeup Remover (Oil-Free)

Base Makeup Removing - Images from products' official websites

1. Kao Biore Cleansing Oil ("Biore Oil")
2. Kao Biore Cleansing Oil – In Cotton Wipes ("Biore Wipes")
3. Neutrogena Deep Clean Cleansing Lotion (Oil Free) ("Neutrogena Lotion")

Basic Cleansing - Images from products' official websites

1. Eucerin: DermoPURIFYER Cleanser (Oil-Free) ("Eucerin")

Active Ingredients:

6% Amphotheric Surfectant, Salicylic Acid
2. Neutrogena Deep Clean Facial Cleanser (for all skin-types) (Oil-Free) ("Neutrogena Cleanser")

Active Ingredients:

Salicylic Acid

3. St Ives Naturally Clear Apricot Face Wash Blemish AndBlackhead Control ("St Ives")

Active Ingredients:

2% Salicylic Acid

Anti-Aging - Image from http://www.sasa.com

1. Skin Peptoxyl Hydrating B5 Complex ("B5 Serum")
Ingredient List:

Aqua, Hyaluronic Acid, Pantothenic Acid, Vitamin B5, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide (More INFO on how this is linked to Matrixyl 3000 & Dermaxyl), Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (More INFO on how this is linked to Matrixyl 3000 & Rigin), Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin

Hydrating - Images from http://www.sasa.com

1. Neogence Hyaluronic Hydrating Acid Essence ("Neogence Serum")
Ingredient List:
Aqua, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid, Allantoin, Chlorphenesin, Methylisothiazolinone
2. Skin Peptoxyl Hydra Boosting Complex ("Squalane")
Ingredient List:
Squalane (Please note that SqualAne is DIFFERENT from SqualEne)
Edited 7 November 2011:
3. On some days, depending on my mood, I use Kiehls Midnight Recovery Concentrate ("Kiehls")
Ingredient List:
Far too long :P

Blemish Control - Image from http://my.cellnique.com

Cellnique Skin Action Gel Plus ("Cellnique")
(Please note that this is NOT the infamous "Skin Action Sebum Gel" which does absolutely nothing for me,
and for what it's worth, this ONLY works in conjunction with the Clarisonic MIA)
Ingredient List:

Purified Water (Aqua), Glycolic Acid, Glycerin, Lactic Acid, SD Alcohol 40, Salicylic Acid, Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-Ursi) Extract, Vitamin C (Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate), Witch Hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) Extract, Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) Oil, Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus) Oil, Camphor (Cinnamomum camphora), Polysorbate, Triclosan, Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis) Gel, Hydroxyethyl Cellulose, Allantoin, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, DMDM Hydantoin.

Blemish Control - Images from http://www.mentholatum.com.my

1. OXY Oil-Control Moisturiser ("Oxy Moisturiser")
Active Ingredient:
Triclosan
2. OXY 5% Benzoyl Peroxide ("Oxy BP")
Active Ingredient:
Benzoyl Peroxide

Edited 7 November 2011:

I've downgraded to 2.5% Benzac or Acne.org Benzoyl Peroxide,

so I need not dilute it with the Oxy Moisturiser anymore!

MORNING / A.M.

Image from http://www.graphicsfactory.com

~~ 99% of the time, I would have removed my base makeup before crashing.

Thus, I only cursory cleanse my face with the St. Ives.

~~ 1 drop of B5, warmed up between my ring & middle fingers, patted onto my laugh lines, frown lines and eye area (avoiding eyelids).

~~ 2 drops of B5, warmed up between my ring, middle and fore fingers, smoothed onto my neck.

~~ 3-4 drops of Neogence + 1 drop of Squalane warmed between my palms, patted onto the whole face, excess onto neck area.

Note:

The Neogence dropper is MUCH larger than the Squalane's;

thus the ratio is closer to 6:1 rather than 3:1.

~~ 1 mung-bean-sized (2 mm) of ~~OXY~~ BP ~~mixed with 1 large fresh pea-sized :P (1.5 cm) Oxy moisturiser~~ all over face and below chin.

NIGHT / P.M.

Image from http://www.graphicsfactory.com

When it comes to the P.M. routine, the MOST important bit for me is

removing . every . last . bit of base makeup.

Note:

Although I don't use a toner, whenever I'm trying out a new base,

I use some toner after cleansing to see if my makeup remover/s did it/their job.

~~ Depending on how heavy my base is, I would either use the Biore Wipe (when I'm in a hurry), Biore Oil or Neutrogena Lotion. I skip this step if my base is very light.

~~ Followed by the Eucerin.

~~ Followed by the Neutrogena Cleanser used with the Clarisonic MIA.

~~ Followed by the St Ives.

The rest is very similar to the day routine. Difference highligted in ORANGE!

~~ 1 pump of Cellnique, warmed up between my ring, middle and fore fingers, smoothed over my nose and cheek area.

~~ 1-2 drops of B5, warmed up between my ring & middle fingers, patted onto my laugh lines, frown lines and eye area (including eyelids).

~~ 2-3 drops of B5, warmed up between my ring, middle and fore fingers, smoothed onto my neck.

~~ 3-4 drops of Neogence + 1-2 drops of Squalane warmed between my palms, patted onto the whole face, excess onto neck area.

Note:

The Neogence dropper is MUCH larger than the Squalane's;

thus the ratio is closer to 6:1 rather than 3:1.

~~ 2 mung-bean-sized (4 mm) of ~~OXY~~ BP ~~mixed with 1 large fresh pea-sized :P (1.5 cm) Oxy moisturiser~~ all over face and below chin.

And that's it. Simple, eh? ^_^

Hope this helps someone out there!

I don't do much other than the above. Saving that for an uber short blog post ;)

Thanks for reading! <3

Review: EverMiracle EM Mask Sheet Whitening Essence

2011-07-26T15:00:00.006+08:00

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:

- Functions:
Active Ingredients:
   ~ Vitamin C, tocopheryl acetate and green tea extract:
       protects and keeps the skin healthy
   ~ Collagen
      replaces rough and dry skin with elastic and transparent skin
   ~ Phytoncide and EM oil
      makes lively and healthy skin through refreshment of nature

SHEET MASK SHAPE

Unlike any other masks I've ever used, which usually comes in a single sheet...

the EM mask is divided into two parts:

- one for the upper part of the face; and

- one for the lower part.

I'm not finicky about the shape of masks,

or masks in general because they are not crucial to MY skin routine.

However, I guess logical deduction leads me to the conclusion that

since not all faces are shaped and sized alike,

a 2-part adjustable mask might be more versatile ^_~

This also doesn't have ear hooks or a chin-piece to give the extra lifting-effect.

I guess since this is not a mask which touts firming as its main purpose,

that's negligible.

TEXTURE OF SHEET MASK

I've read/heard of masks which are too tissue-like, flimsy and tears

even before making contact with its destination (i.e. the face)... :O

However, I've ALSO heard of masks which are so "stiff"

that they don't adhere to a face's every nook and cranny... :O :O

I can say that this mask didn't tear upon removal from the packaging,

and I didn't have to handle it like a pricey Lalique vase.

The cotton fibre feels rather sturdy - no risk of tearing for sure,
( tried to tear it after use and failed +_+)

and the mask as a whole adheres pretty well to my face, even around my ginormous nostrils +_+

AMOUNT OF ESSENCE

This mask is SUPER saturated in essence.

After removing the mask from its pouch,

there's still sufficient left over to apply all over my neck and decolletage!

Very generous ^_^

TEXTURE OF ESSENCE

Quite light. Not too sticky nor heavy.

I'd say it's quite similar to the infamous Hada Labo HA Lotion.

"HOW IT FELT ON MY FACE" (For the lack of better words :P)

Initially I felt...nothing...Just like a piece of wet cloth on my face..
Just cool & refreshing...

After a minute or so, when my skin has absorbed some essence,

I began to feel a slight tightening.

VERY slight though and it it didn't sting, so I wasn't unduly worried.

In fact, it occured to me the tightening may even plump up my laugh lines :D

I chose to focus on the cool & refreshing effect instead... ^_^

After whipping off the mask,
my face kinda felt sticky and greasy...
I was very tempted to wash off the residue essence!

However, I had to run to the kitchen to get something done,
and by the time I returned to the bedroom, VOILA!
Essence completely absorbed :D, so there was no wastage
by washing it off.

SCENT

Can't put my finger on it. A little sweet, but not fruity-sweet...
In fact, it's quite faint for a sheet mask.

Definitely not as yummy as My Beauty Diary, Sexy Look and FaceQ masks though... :/

EFFECT

I heard from a face sheet mask connoisseur that a mask

should have an IMMEDIATE positive effect on your face.

Thus, a mask shouldn't need to be used long term for its effects to be seen.

Thus, I assume that the MOMENT I whip off the mask,

my face should be a vision to behold: "Woah! Lookit moi mug - Awesomeness" ^_~

Well, my face was a LOT more moisturised - bouncy, dewey... *boing boing*

As for the Whitening/Brightening effect,

it wasn't as dramatic nor did it last like the Silk Whitia Anti-Oxidant mask ($$$)

But for it's price, it's pretty decent :)

Thanks for reading! <3

FTC Disclaimer: The EverMiracle mask was sent to me for review purposes on my Blog and/or my YouTube Channel. I was NOT paid to write this post, I am not affiliated in any way with the company, my opinions are my own and always honest.

Review: LUVIEW Crystal Cover BB Cream

2011-07-25T17:13:00.007+08:00

CRYSTAL COVER BB CREAM ("CRYSTAL BB)"

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:

- Skin Type:
   ~ All skin types
- Formula:
   ~ Cream
- Coverage:
   ~ 4 out of 5 (According to LUVIEW's ratings)
- Functions:
   ~ Natural Coverage
   ~ Whitening (Certified by KFDA)
   ~ UV Protection
   ~ Wrinkle Improvement
   ~ Mineral-Enriched

- Product Description:

Soothing and natural-looking coverage for all skin imperfection, including Surgical and acne scars, birthmarks, sun spots and varicose veins with triple function of wrinkle improvement, whitening and SPF 30   ~ Natural and flawless, full coverage
      This BB cream provides customized coverage, from sheer to moderate with a matte finish.
   ~ Radiant and soothing effect
      The jewelry ingredients keeps skin velvety, radiant and translucent while 11 botanical tea ingredients
       provide soothing effect.
   ~ Cell rejuvenation
      Swiss almond, centella, aloe etc. helps cell rejuvenation with moisture supply
   ~ Wrinkle improvement
      Whitening and UV protection : KFDA certified
- Usage:
   ~ At the final stage of the skin care, take appropriate volume and apply for light pounding. Sun block
      maintenance base and foundation are not required to use separately.

Left to Right: BB Cream ("Neat") (Slightly Blended Out) (Blended Out)

SHADE/COLOUR MATCH

This BB is available in 2 shades : #1 Light Beige & #2 Natural Beige

I got this in #2 Natural Beige (naturally...), and even then I had some reservations if it would be too light...
It's really not uncommon for darker shades (#2s) to be very light as well...=_=

My thoughts when I first laid eyes on the squiggle of Crystal BB (BEFORE blending) was:
"Hhhmm...Looks promising. Verrrry promising...
Actually, this could very well be the first BB cream of Korean origin to be a shade (or 2) too dark for me"
*gasps & holds breath with wonder!*...
Dramatic, eh? LOL

However...
(there's always a "BUT" or "HOWEVER" when it comes to my BB reviews, no? ^_^ ]]

...it could also do a L'egere White Multi BB Cream on me...
...meaning it comes out looking misleadingly perfect BUT blends 3 shades lighter!...+_+

when it comes to Crystal BB, what you see is almost what you get! HA!

As you can probably see from the photo above (or not - I'm still struggling with blog photography),

my fear was unfounded because

what you see is very similar to what you get AFTER thorough blending - just ONE shade lighter.

One shade lighter is a good match for my skintone because it does come out a tad dark.

Of course, similar to all BBs of Korean origin I've tried todate,

it's totally neutral with no yellow undertones. :(

But hey! No gray or pink cast is also an achievement by itself :)

Hurray for a match! ^_^

Note:

In case you're wondering why the SHADE/COLOUR MATCH section is the lengthiest in my BB reviews,

it's because without a decent colour match,

no matter how miraculous a BB claims to be,

I can't use it.

I KNOW I can "correct" a BB with a darker setting powder, by mixing it with other BBs/liquid foundations,

but I prefer those measures to be Options, NOT Necessities.

TEXTURE

This comes out a slightly viscous lotion.

Blends easily since the colour match is dead-on!

Note:

There are certain BBs which I blend NOT only to even out the product on my face,

but ALSO to get as thin a layer as possible for shade matching.

Rarely do these BBs stay in my stash for long!

COVERAGE

Light - Medium. Buidable.

I believe Crystal BB offers me the best coverage from my Korean BB stash.

Of course, this is due to its inherent properties,

but the fact that it matches me negates the need to sheer it out...

which obviously compromises any BB's coverage.

FINISH

Satin-matte. Doesn't set to a powdery finish, but neither is it sticky.

OIL-CONTROL (With Setting Powder)

For a non-oil free formulation,

this is decent on my oily skin.

SCENT

It's a combination of herbal/floral and this hint of sweetness thrown in.
A little odd, but since it's VERY faint and wears off really quickly,
not unpleasant

SPF

SPF 30, so it's not full-spectrum.

Due to the Shade Match, LUVIEW Crystal Cover BB Cream #2 Natural Beige would be inducted into my
List of "BB Creams for Darker Skin - Reviews and Swatches"

Thanks for reading <3

FTC Disclaimer: The LUVIEW Crystal Cover BB Cream was sent to me for review purposes on my Blog and/or my YouTube Channel. I was NOT paid to write this post, I am not affiliated in any way with the company, my opinions are my own and always honest.

Review: Skin79 BB Cream (Diamond The Prestige, Diamond Absolute Total, Super VIP Gold Label, Hot Pink Triple Function)

2011-07-20T12:27:00.014+08:00

Holla! I'm BACK ^_^
And thank you so much for your support during my June turmoil <3

[ Apologies if this post sounds a little...loopy...disjointed...
Got a little rusty during the break... ]

Anyway, I haven't been hauling much apart from a Lunasol palette, several Real Techniques brushes and some random doo-dats:

HOWEVER, I've went a "little" BB cream crazy.
Specifically, a KOREAN BB cream frenzy because much as I love my BB Creams for Darker Skin,
most of them are of Japan origin.
And considering Korea is BB cream's "stronghold",
I really wanted to find one which doesn't make me look white/pink/gray!

Watch out for more Korean BB cream reviews later because I found some HITS! <3 *finally-it's hightime!*

So...
I got a whole bunch of Skin79 BB Creams (or "Beblesh Balms" - odd name - typo? ^_~)
(Left to Right - Clickable Links:)
~ Diamond Collection The Prestige Beblesh Balm SPF25 Pa++
~ Diamond Collection The Absolute Total BB Cream Bb Cream SPF37 Pa+++
~ VIP Gold Label Collection Super Beblesh Balm SPF25 Pa++
~ Hot Pink Super Beblesh Balm Triple Function SPF25 Pa++

And if you look up the BB creams I chose to review in the chart below,
you'd notice that NONE of these offer "Coverage" as one of my "Skin's Needs".

NOT that I DON'T need coverage (believe me when I tell you I NEED it!),
but prior experience with Korean BB creams (Missha, SkinFood, Etude House, The Face Shop, the list goes onnnnnnnn...)
has taught me most BB creams touting great coverage are thick, pasty and incredibly difficult to blend/work with.

Image from: http://icyabstract.onsugar.com

DIAMOND COLLECTION THE PRESTIGE BEBLESH BALM SPF25 PA++ ("Diamond")

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:

- Skin Type:
   ~ All skin types, expecially those with Sensitive and Acne-Prone skin
- Basic Functions (This applies to ALL 4 Skin79 BBs reviewd here):
   ~ Whitening as Adenosine and Arbutin efffectively whitens (Certified by KFDA)
   ~ UV Protection
   ~ Wrinkle Improvement

- Extra Benefits:

   ~ Diamond Powder and Jewel Complex Powder of Ruby, Amethyst and Pearl adds radiance to skin
   ~ Patent-pending Natural Complex helps improve skin and takes care of skin problems
   ~ Caviar extract to help eliminate wrinkles
   ~ EGF formula to improve skin DNA cell renewal
   ~ Q10 creates a layer of protection and keeps skin supple
   ~ Aloe Vera and Green Tea extract

DIAMOND COLLECTION THE ABSOLUTE TOTAL BB CREAM BB CREAM SPF37 PA+++ ("Absolute")

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:

- Skin Type:
~ Oily/Combination skin, or those prone to clogged pores

- Basic Functions:

   ~ Whitening: Adenosine and Arbutin efffectively whitens (Certified by KFDA)
   ~ UV Protection
   ~ Wrinkle Improvement

- Extra Benefits:

   ~ Oil-free!
   ~ Phyto Complex moisturises skin
   ~ Diamond Powder adds radiance to skin
   ~ Jewel Complex Powder of Ruby, Amethyst, Coral, Toreumalrin and Pearl brightens skin by diffusing light
   ~ Flora Bouquet Complex (peach blossom, seokryukkot, sagwakkot, raimkkot, orange blossom
      extracts) adds shimmer and shine to skin; also protects skin from various harmful elements from the
      environment
   ~ Swiss Alpine Herb Extract (gentiahna, Western yarrow, wormwood, ahreunika extracts)
      protects skin from various harmful elements from the environment
   ~ MX-II Peptide Complex firms skin
   ~ Caviar extract to help eliminate wrinkles
   ~ Q10 creates a layer of protection and keeps skin supple
   ~ Bee Propolis extract prevents oxidation
(This BB claims to do everything except your laundry! ^_^)

VIP GOLD LABEL COLLECTION SUPER BEBLESH BALM SPF25 PA++ ("VIP Gold")

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:

- Skin Type:
~ Mature skin especially those above 30 or Dry skin (similar to Hot Pink, but more moisturising)

- Basic Functions:

   ~ Whitening: Adenosine and Arbutin efffectively whitens (Certified by KFDA)
   ~ UV Protection
   ~ Wrinkle Improvement

- Extra Benefits:

   ~ Gold and caviar extract nourishes skin.
   ~ Phyto Complex moisturises skin
   ~ Osmopur (a mix of sunflower, rice bran and ivy extracts) protects skin from various harmful elements
                      from the environment
   ~ Prolonged usage will help improve skin texture and fade acne scars

HOT PINK SUPER BEBLESH BALM TRIPLE FUNCTION SPF25 PA++ ("Hot Pink")

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:

- Skin Type:
~ Normal to Oily skin

- Basic Functions:

   ~ Whitening: Adenosine and Arbutin efffectively whitens (Certified by KFDA)
   ~ UV Protection
   ~ Wrinkle Improvement

- Extra Benefits:

   ~ Oil-free!
   ~ Keeps skin matte and natural all day long
   ~ Water drop texture and feels cool upon application
   ~ Contains 8 plant extracts to nourish skin
   ~ Phyto Complex moisturises skin
   ~ Osmopur (a mix of sunflower, rice bran and ivy extracts) protects skin from various harmful elements
                      from the environment

SHADE/COLOUR MATCH

From Lightest to Darkest (NC25-NC30-ish)

| Diamond - Pale. At least 3-4 shades lighter than I am! No pink/yellow/gray cast. Totally neutral.

| Absolute - Ghastly white. Seriously, I look like a kabuki dancer with this on. Again, totally neutral.

| VIP Gold - This is rather odd as the swatch looks so promising. Alas, the yellow disappears and turns more beige-y as I blend. Colour-depth, it's matches me reasonably well.

| Hot Pink - I can see why so many people use this. The swatch looks a horrifying gray, but upon application and blending, it turns more beige-y, just like the VIP Gold. Colour-depth, it's matches me THE BEST.
|
| The Ultimate Test : applied VIP Gold on one half of my face and Hot Pink on the other.
| Initially, both sides look identical.
| However, after 5-10 minutes, the Hot Pink had oxidised to my skintone and somehow, turned...yellower.
| I do believe that Hot Pink's sheerer/lighter coverage/texture helps the match.

Swatches Top to Bottom: "Diamond", "Absolute", "VIP Gold", "Hot Pink"

TEXTURE

From Liquidy to Creamy

| Diamond - An joy to use! So liquidy. And dare I say, because it's oil-free, it feels even lighter than the Hada Labo BB Moist Emulsion. A dream to blend!

| Absolute - Quite liquidy when it comes out, but it's not as easy to blend. Rather odd. Reminds me of the Vichy and Neutrogena BB creams (which will be reviewed later!).

| Hot Pink - A thick-ish lotion. Blends easily.

| VIP Gold - A thick-ish lotion. Blends easily.

COVERAGE

From Sheer to Medium/Medium-Full

| Hot Pink - Sheer to light.

| Diamond - Sheer to light.

| Absolute - Light to medium.

| VIP Gold - Light to medium.

FINISH

From Dewy to Satin

| Diamond - A finish so dewy, it resembles Song Hye-kyo skin in Laneige's skincare ads. NOT saying I resemble her in any way or form, yo! +_+ Of course, the trade-off would be it's kind of sticky and powder is definitely needed to set it.

| Absolute - Dewy, but not as much as Diamond. Also feels a little tacky.

| VIP Gold - Satin-matte. Doesn't set to a powdery finish, but neither is it sticky.

| Hot Pink - Satin. Doesn't set to a powdery finish, but neither is it sticky.

OIL-CONTROL (With Setting Powder)

From Zero to OK

| Diamond

| VIP Gold

| Absolute (Oil-free)

| Hot Pink (Oil-free)

SCENT

From Light to Strong

| Hot Pink and VIP Gold seems herbal-ish/floral-ish. Quite faint and not bothersome.

| Diamond has a slight floral scent. Wears off very quickly.

| Absolute has the strongest floral scent. Fortunately it wears off after a bit.

SPF

From Lowest to Highest

| Diamond SPF25 PA++, Hot Pink SPF25 PA++, VIP Gold SPF25 PA++

| Absolute SPF37 PA++

INGREDIENTS

Comedogenic Ingredients

| Hot Pink and VIP Gold contains Isopropyl Palmitate high up on the list of ingredients.

| This comedogenic ingredient may cause breakouts.
|

| Thus, eventhough these 2 match my skintone (Hot Pink being the BEST match),

| I daren't use them on a daily basis for fear of breakouts on my acne-prone skin.

| However, shade-wise, Hot Pink would make it to my

| List of "BB Creams for Darker Skin - Reviews and Swatches"

| in my next Update!

Thanks for reading <3

Watch out for more Korean BB cream reviews later because I found some HITS! <3 *finally-it's hightime!*

FTC Disclaimer: These Skin79 BB creams were sent to me for review purposes on my Blog and/or my YouTube Channel. I was NOT paid to write this post, I am not affiliated in any way with the company, my opinions are my own and always honest.

Review: Hada Labo BB Moist Emulsion SPF50 PA+++ and Hada Labo BB Moist Cream SPF32 PA+++

2011-06-05T18:44:00.014+08:00

My apologies if the title of this Blog Post is rather misleading...

I've decided to INCORPORATE the Swatches & Reviews of
~ Hada Labo BB Moist Emulsion SPF 50 PA+++, and
~ Hada Labo BB Moist Cream SPF 32 PA+++

INTO the following {{ Updated & would constantly be updated, so bookmark it }} Post:

BB Creams for Darker Skin with Yellow Undertones

Reviews & Swatches

(click HERE)

Products - Left to Right:

[1] Hada Labo BB Moist Emulsion in #1 Natural Beige SPF50 PA+++

[2] Hada Labo BB Moist Emulsion in #2 Natural Ochre SPF50 PA+++

[3] Hada Labo BB Moist Cream in #1 Natural Beige SPF 32 PA+++

[4] Hada Labo BB Moist Cream in #2 Natural Ochre SPF 32 PA+++

Swatches - Left to Right:

[1] Ishizawa Nanoce BB Moist Cream in #2 Healthy Ochre

[2] Hada Labo BB Moist Emulsion in #1 Natural Beige SPF50 PA+++

[3] Hada Labo BB Moist Emulsion in #2 Natural Ochre SPF50 PA+++

[4] Hada Labo BB Moist Cream in #1 Natural Beige SPF 32 PA+++

[5] Hada Labo BB Moist Cream in #2 Natural Ochre SPF 32 PA+++

Thanks for...errmmm...Clicking! <3

Review: Innisfree Green Tea Seed Serum

2011-06-02T17:27:00.004+08:00

If you've read my Korean Haul Post, it's blatantly obvious that I went there with 2 (beauty-related) specific brands in mind:
- Innisfree
- Laneige
- other bits & bobs if I had the time.

And I DID pretty well, actually ^_^
Managed to purchase almost every Innisfree item I was lemming for...
EXCEPT the Innisfree Green Tea BB Cream in shade #2 T_T
Nevermind that...

Let us dwell more on one of Innisfree's BestSelling Items:

"Green Tea Seed Serum"

Image from www.innisfree.co.kr

I went to Korea with a tour group; thus, I knew I won't have the pleasure of browsing around all the Korean brands there. I was on a VERY tight itinerary.

The reason for Innisfree:
~~ Its Concept and Ingredients Philosophy:

Woo...

Wooooooooooooo.....

Innisfree sources its minerals from Jeju Island , and in lieu of distilled water, Jeju organic green tea water is used.

And below, is the product blurb for its infamous "Green Tea Seed Serum" ^_^

Image from www.innisfree.co.kr

VERRRRY impressive, right?
And I was lucky enough to score the Value Pack! *muahahahaha*

However, therein lies the million-dollar question:
"Does the Green Tea Seed Serum live up to my (almost)-sky-high expectations?"

INGREDIENTS

I really can't come up with anything else that hasn't already been mentioned in the product blurbs ^_~

The 4 main Active Ingredients and their respective skincare benefits...

However, since the packaging's in Korean,

it's impossible for me to ascertain if it contains comodegenic ingredients... :(

TEXTURE

Very liquid, borderline watery, gel.

I use 1-2 pumps, depending on how parched my skin is.

Either way, it absorbs VERY easily, unlike certain serums (*coughs Hada-Labo*),

which just seem to "sit" on the skins surface...
Doing nothing but annoy me with their stickiness =_=

SCENT

Surprisingly, the scent is not as "Green-Tea-ish" as one would expect...

Considering it's a green-tea serum and all.. :/

However, it's not offensive to my olfactory sense and is still predominatly botanical.

Just bear in mind that there IS an unexpected hint of fruity-sweetness.

EFFECTIVENESS

If you've been following me on FaceBook,

you would know by now that I'm in the midst of revamping my skincare routine...
In my 3rd attempt in 6 years to wean my skin off Benzoyl Peroxide...

And I'm on the lookout for a light but effective moisturising serum...

This serum was the 1st I reached for.

I used this Day & Night, either mixed with or after Cellnique Skin Action Gel Plus.

(this should not be confused with the MUCH-MILDER Cellnique Skin Action Sebum Gel).

It was a pleasure to find my skin softer, plumper and well, plain well-fed immediately upon application.

The downside is after 2-3 hours, some oilies begin to break through and I look a little shiny...

Not oily or greasy, but definitely shinier that I'd like :/

My skin certainly doesn't mind a little extra love at Night, albeit the slight oiliness;

For Day, I would rather NOT, thank you very much!

Now, I apply this ONLY at Night,

alternating with Oxy Oil-Control Moisturiser (old packaging - comes in a nifty pump bottle now),

Kiehls Midnight Recovery Concentrate, or

Naruko Niaouli & Tea Tree Balancing Serum.

(Yup - still trying to figure out which serum works best for me ^_^)

Something to note:

I have oily, acne-prone skin.

Considering I don't find this overtly-greasy,

I don't think this would benefit anybody with very dry skin.
It'd be too lightweight to do dry skin much good.

By the way, I'm quitting the (X/5) Rating system for skincare products.

I firmly believe "One Man's Meat Is Another Man's Poison",
so even if I deem something a total success/failure,
you might find otherwise.

Give this a try if you can get your hands on it!

For its reasonable price, I believe it's relatively effective as a lightweight moisturising serum.

I've tried some PRICIER products which does LESS =_=

Thanks for reading <3

Review: Dior Addict & Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Lipsticks

2011-05-24T10:41:00.004+08:00

My apologies to those whom I promised a review for these lippies :(

Apparently, Blogger disapproves of my long rambly review and chose to eat up the 99% completed-draft just before publishing,
then spit it back out unceremoniously in gibberish =_=

I attempted regurgitating the review - I REALLY tried!
However, my irritation and resentment totally thwarted my efforts...

Anyway, to cut though the chase,
like most people who compared these 2 formulations,
I prefer Dior Addict over Chanel Rouge Coco Shine.

And for once, a SUPER CONCISE EXPRESS review comparing the 2 Titans of this season's lipsticks!

Vanessa for Chanel to the Left Kate for Dior to the Right

Round 1: SPOKESPERSON ~(^-^)~
So I've seen several blog posts comparing these lippies...
And nobody seems to mention this...

Vanessa Paradis (Chanel's muse) is Johnny Depp's current Significant Other and mommy to their 2 kids...
And Kate Moss (Dior's muse) - she was Johnny's 3-year stormy love which ended in 1997...
Coincidence, much? ;)

=_= This could probably be due to my age as 1997 is 14 years ago...
when MOST bloggers were still in (pre/elementary/middle)-school ^_~

Round 1: CHANEL! Hey, Vanessa bagged Johnny..."Nuff Said!

Round 2: PACKAGING
Oh, I almost got into (verbal) fisticuffs with a fanatical Chanel MA
when I mentioned in passing that I prefer Dior's futuristic, holographic tube!

Woah! The woman launched into DefCon-1 defending Chanel'c choice of simple black and gold elegance.
By all means, I understand that they want CHIC- just make it more solid!
Chanel's tube is featherlight and the plastic - plain flimsy. Pooohh!

Round 2: DIOR all the way, woman!

Round 3: TEXTURE
Both Dior and Chanel promise weightless, moisturising formulation without compromising on colour pay-off.

I concur - Yes, both are moisturising compared to their previous/other lip product ranges.
But are they THE most moisturising lippies I own todate?
Nope!

Pit against one another, Chanel, though producing a glossier finish, is a tad more drying.

Round 3: DIOR wins, just by a hair though.

Round 4: COVERAGE
Aaaahhhh...This is an easy one.

Dior triumps, especially when it comes to the darker colours.
What you see is What you get!

As for Chanel, even its darker colours are sheer.
Depending on your preference in coverage, this could be a hit or miss.

Round 4: A DRAW because when it comes to nudes (my favourites <3), I like Dior's superior coverage. Stronger colours, I prefer Chanel's sheerer formulation.

Round 5: COLOUR SELECTION
The colour range is quite wide for both brands.
I dare say whatever your preference might be,
you'll probably find at least ONE colour that would work on you...

Although there is a caveat in Dior's relatively better coverage to Chanels:
Dior's opacity would not be as forgiving as Chanels sheer-er tints.

Round 5: A DRAW!

Note: Chanel Rouge Coco Shine Chance turned fuchsia on my very-pigmented lips. Just so you know...

SWATCHES? But of course ^-^ I'm nice - Don't you know that by now? :P

{{ DIOR ADDICT }}
-----------------

Left to Right:
178 Urban (Sephora Exclusive - but available in Malaysia HA!)
253 Basic
313 30 Montaigne (Saks Exclusive - but available in Malaysia HA!)
329 Leather
333 Nude

Left to Right:
178 Urban (Sephora Exclusive - but available in Malaysia HA!)
253 Basic
313 30 Montaigne (Saks Exclusive - but available in Malaysia HA!)
329 Leather
333 Nude

{{ CHANEL ROUGE COCO SHINE }}
-----------------------------

Left to Right:
47 Flying Cloud
48 Evasion
56 Chance
58 Royallieu

Left to Right:
47 Flying Cloud
48 Evasion
56 Chance
58 Royallieu

Hope these swatches rock somebody's boat out there somewhere...

Oh, damn!Even if they don't considering KarlaSugar has the most awesome swatches,
(Chanel & Dior)
I didn't want MY photos to go to waste :P

And my, I do have hairy arms, don't I? ^_~

Thanks for dropping by! <3

Review: Nude Cosmetics Signature Cream Blush Duo (01 Pink & Orange) and Signature Pressed Blush Duo (01 Coral & Brown)

2011-05-23T09:45:00.007+08:00

To find out more about Nude Cosmetic ("NudeCos"), click HERE - Nude Cosmetic - An Introduction

To read my reviews on other NudeCos products:

[1] Skin Radiance 3 In 1 Multi BB Cream

[2] Skin Radiance Powder Pact

[3] Perfect Foaming Make-Up Cleansing Oil

PACKAGING

The packaging of NudeCos' point-makeup line, "NudeCos Signature",

seems to be a significant departure from its base-makeup line,

and the rest of its other products for that matter.

If anything, the whole design concept is exceptionally...mature.

None of the cutesy, princessy frills ala Baviphat and Etude house...

nor the zen-like minimalist lines of Innisfree and Laneige.

What we have here is an elegant, metallic burgundy compact embossed with gold sakuras/cherry blossoms

- an article women in their 30s and beyond would't feel embarassed to whip out for touch-ups.

SIGNATURE CREAM BLUSH DUO
(01 PINK & ORANGE)

Product Write-Up:

"Smooth and silky cream type blusher makes your face look healthy and gorgeous.
Coating pigment prevents color shift to dull color over a period of time, maintaining first make-up status itself. Moreover, micro sized Fine Particles Absorption Powder absorbs sebum and keeps make-up moistureless and soft all day long.
How to use
Apply evenly appropriate amount of the product using applicator sponge or finger tips. Pat softly until absorbed."

COLOUR-PAYOFF

The colourpay-off is pretty darn intense! O_O

And it'sentirely too easy ending up with clown cheeks if you are in a rush

and attemptto slap it on nonchalantly...

The easiestway to achieving a natural flush with this product is to apply as thin a layeras possible using a sponge applicator (much like the sponge pad provided or anysponge applicator with a large surface area, for that matter).

Obviouslyyou can use other tools (i.e. fingers, stippling brush, flat top brush, etc.),

but I STRONGLYsuggest choosing something which picks up very little product and has a largesurface area to make application and blending easier.

Justremember a little bit goes a long way and once this stuff goes on, it STAYS on!

Takes somepractice to get it juuuusstttt right,

but once youget the hang of it, a natural, healthy flush is possible ^_~

TEXTURE

An opaquecream.

I would sayit's most similar to Stila Convertible Colors.

The opacityis definitely not as forgiving as translucent gel cheek tints,

which is whyyou need to work a little harder blending this into your cheeks.

FINISH

A satinfinish, with no shimmer.

COLOURSELECTION

None :P

There’s onlyONE duo and you’re looking at it ~_~

I have to mention that the cool barbie pink on the left looks quite artificial on me
as it clashes with my yellow-undertones.
It works if I'm going for a baby-doll look, but natural...No... :(

Due to it’s strong colour pay-off, thiswill show up on darker skintones.

SIGNATURE PRESSED BLUSH DUO
(01 CORAL & BROWN)

Swatches Left to Right: Left Color, Right Color, Mixed Together

Product Write-Up:

" This is powder type blusher that sophisticated and stylish colors make the facial silhouette, presenting gorgeous make-up. This silicone-containing powder provides moist and soft feeling of using as well as excellent affinity to the skin. Hence this product keeps make-up last longer.
How to use
Put the applicator brush in the product and tap the excess powder on the back of your hand. Then, brush it evenly out onto your face. "

COLOUR-PAYOFF

Thepigmentation is nowhere as robust as its cream counterpart.

Nevertheless,I still ADORE it: Fool-proof, I say!

I have toadmit that I use this a LOT more than the cream because it’s so easy to apply! <3

Just a hintof colour or yearning for stronger editorial cheekbones? Easily buildable!

Whateveryour tool of choice may be (from duo-fibre stippling brushes to denser blushbrushes),

it'simpossible to overdo ^_^

LOVE theformulation!

TEXTURE

Very finelymilled, densely-packed powder.

And because itcontains silicone, it just glides on (well, if powder could glide :P) like adream!

I would sayit’s most comparable to MAC Sheertone Shimmer blushes – the good ones…

FINISH

The BEST Part:

Devoid ofobnoxious shimmer/glitter which unduly emphasizes pores,

this blush producesthe most beautiful, healthy, glowy sheen!<3

COLOURSELECTION

Errm…None.

Yet again, there’s onlyONE duo and you’re looking at it.

Fortunatelyfor me, the duo consists of 2 very wearable colours,
and they flatter my yellow-undertone very well <3

Can’t claimit’s universally flattering, but mighty close IMO.

Unfortunately, the 2semi-circles of different shades are rather small.

Thus, it'squite difficult to pick up just ONE colour if you use a larger blush brush.

Fortunately,the resulting shade from mixing the 2 shades is gorgeous,

so using theduo as a single is an option.

^_^ Instead of a duo, this could be a TRIO!

RATING:

SIGNATURE CREAM BLUSH DUO (01 PINK & ORANGE) : 3.75 / 5

SIGNATURE PRESSED BLUSH DUO (01 CORAL & BROWN) : 4.5 / 5

Thank you for reading <3

FTC Disclaimer: This Nude Cosmetics product was sent to me for review purposes on my Blog and/or my YouTube Channel. I was NOT paid to write this post, I am not affiliated in any way with the company, my opinions are my own and always honest.

From UK With Love...

2011-05-21T11:55:00.007+08:00

A short commemorative post about my First...Ever...Purchase of Hand-Made jewelry...online...
For real - my FIRST EVER! ^_^

And to think that it all started with Japan's earthquake in March...

Yasumi of "Worship at the House of Blues" threw herself into making and selling shiny "fings" to raise funds for the cause...
And succeed she did - raised quite a bit of moolah for Japan!

I wanted to support the cause because I know it's VERY close to her heart,
and knowing her impeccable taste and standards,
I knew her pieces would not fall far from perfection...

Thus I purchased the Swarovski heart pendants along with the "Rights of Admission Reserved: A NeckLace"...
(Note: When she says "Swarovski", she means "Swarovski...
Extremely specific about the specifications of each piece so you know exactly what you're paying for )

Soon after, she dedicated a blog to her "fings": The WorshipBlues Emporium,
...which I stalk obsessively...
...for she makes a VERY limited quantity of each piece....
...and she loves posting new items when I'm asleep...T_T

When a piece is gone, it's gone...Forever...

The eagle landed last week...
And WAS . I . PLEASED!

[Top: Japan Donation Drive Pieces] [Bottom: "Right of Admission Reserved: A Necklace"]

My apologies for the poor camera quality and my lack of skill - photography has never been my strength.
The photo does absolutely no justice to the pieces...

Note how my Swarovski hearts are strung/pierced/set (term?)
- Pink in the middle, Clear and Aqua on the right / left.

Especially the "Rights of Admission Reserved: A NeckLace" -> CLICK for its page!

To those who are curious as to why I rarely purchase pricey handmade items:

I love unique pieces...
If I were to pay a princely sum, the piece should reflect its price...

I love the way Yasumi strings together several seemingly odd charms,
transforming them into a statement piece which conveys a thousand words... <3

"
The treasures of the heart must be kept precious.
My new collection advocates discernment when it comes to matters of the heart.
Right of admission is very strictly reserved:
"Love" taken from the heart of the matter. "Door knob" lifted from an opulent doll house.
"

Thanks for reading <3

[CLOSED] GiveAway: 6,000 YouTube Subscribers and 450 Blog Followers

2011-05-17T00:37:00.009+08:00

Hiya,

Thank you for dropping by.

Well, 6,1XX...And to think that I was literally whooping with joy when I hit 150 when I first started!
6K is rather overwhelming...In a good way, of course ^_^

I hope everybody will support my magazine-sharing transition in FaceBook.
As my subscriber count increases and YouTube's stand on published materials remains iffy, I think it's better to be safe than sorry...
I would literally cry my eyes out if my earlier videos were deleted T_T

However, I do harbour ambitions of making live videos...So... *fingers crossed* ^_~

In the meantime, after the previous Give-Away at 3,030 subscribers,
it's time again to give back to everybody whose supported me from Day One *hugs & kisses*

I appreciate EACH and EVERYONE!
My subcriber count increases at a snail's pace, but on the bright side, I could actually keep track of my "regulars", so to speak.

Again, THANK YOU!

Clear Stock Pics...

My Lousy Pics...

The Prize Stash

The Loot:
(Top to Bottom, Left to Right)
- Jill Stuart Mix Compact Blush #13 Milky Strawberry
- Esprique Precious Dual Gradation Eyes D-3
- Innisfree Mineral Melting Foundation #5
- Innisfree Mineral Water Foundation #23
- Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser Nude
- Koji Dolly Wink Liqud EyeLiner Deep Black
- Urban Decay Primer Potion
- Dior Addict High Color Lipstick #534 Pink Thrill
- Koji EyeLash Curler #73
- Maybelline Hello Kitty Volum' Express Mascara

BB Creams for Darker Skin / Yellow Skin - Reviews and Swatches

2011-05-05T10:12:00.041+08:00

Note:
This Post has been and will be constantly undated with new 'finds' ^_^
(Update 4 June 2011: Added Hada Labo BB Moist Cream SPF32 PA+++ and Hada Labo BB Moist Emulsion SPF50 PA+++)
(Update 4 September 2011: Added Coffret D'or Fast Beauty Foundation UV BB Cream SPF33 PA++)

Apologies for these HUGE-ass pictures,
but I really wanted to share my finds after COUNTLESS (well...actually...more than 30 FAILS
- I gave up swatching after THIS Blog Post:

" BB Cream/Blemish Balm Swatches - All 16 of Them "

It's depressing, you know... :(

And thanks to Yasumi, I finally found several BB creams which match my NC25-30 skin with YELLOW undertones!
{Note:
My face is closer to NC25; neck NC30.
And with my super short hair, base matching is HELL! =_=}
{Note 2: You can mix your BB cream with a yellow-toned liquid foundation (I just think this defeats the whole purpose of a BB cream) or set with a yellow-toned powder (I just don't like to ;))}

Oh joy! ^_^
No more disappointing sighs looking myself at the mirror...
Lamenting away how GRAY or PINK my face is...

By the way, the Missha Perfect Cover BB Cream #23 does absolutely NOTHING for me.
The colour depth is OK, but I look sallow... ~_~

And I have this pet peeve that many people rave and rave about Missha Perfect Cover BB Cream...
Try other brands - you'll be surprised at how superior some OTHER brands are...

{Note 3: If your skin's undertone is PINK, these BB creams may turn you ORANGE, so...you've been warned ;))

*Drumroll, please - The Line Up*

Products - Left to Right:

[1] Ishizawa Nanoce BB Moist Cream in #2 Healthy Ochre

~ (Apparently it's the No. 1 best-selling BB in Japan)
[2] SANA Quzulan Gelo Liquid BB Essence SPF29 PA++ in #1

[3] Holika Holika Aqua Petit Jelly BB SPF20 PA++ in #2 Natural[4] Cyber Colors Duo White Essence BB Cream SPF25 PA++

~ (Cyber Colors is a Korean brand available in Sasa)
[5] Maybelline Clear Smooth Minerals BB Cream SPF26 PA++ in #2 Natural

~ (Odd that its packaging is different from the original #1, which doesn't match me anyway)

Products - Left to Right:

[1] Hada Labo BB Moist Emulsion in #1 Natural Beige SPF50 PA+++

[2] Hada Labo BB Moist Emulsion in #2 Natural Ochre SPF50 PA+++

[3] Hada Labo BB Moist Cream in #1 Natural Beige SPF 32 PA+++

[4] Hada Labo BB Moist Cream in #2 Natural Ochre SPF 32 PA+++

Products - Left to Right:

[1] Coffret D'or Fast Beauty Foundation UV BB Cream #02 Natural Tone SPF33 PA++

[2] Coffret D'or Fast Beauty Foundation UV BB Cream #03 Healthy Tone SPF33 PA++

SWATCHES :

Swatches - Left to Right:

[1] (I forget - obviously a TOTAL FAILURE ~_~)

[2] Ishizawa Nanoce BB Moist Cream in #2 Healthy Ochre
[3] SANA Quzulan Gelo Liquid BB Essence SPF29 PA++ in #1
[4] SANA Quzulan Gelo Liquid BB Essence SPF29 PA++ in #2
[5] Holika Holika Aqua Petit Jelly BB SPF20 PA++ in #2 Natural
[6] Cyber Colors Duo White Essence BB Cream SPF25 PA++
[7] Maybelline Clear Smooth Minerals BB Cream SPF26 PA++ in #2 Natural