Arumee: Miracle Water

This past weekend, I happen to flip through the Singtao's Saturday Magazine "Trend" and saw this article featuring the Arumee skincare:

 

I've briefly translated the article.

Allantoin
Helps heal skin and has anti-inflammatory, anti-irritant and soothing properties.

Witch Hazel
Promotes soft skin, an anti-oxidant, constricts blood vessels, has anti-inflammatory and healing properties.  Frequent use can treat acne / pimple wounds, neutralizes redness and helps bruises.

Aloe vera
Promotes cell physiology.  Moisturizes, tightens, converges, compacts, sterilizes and repairs skin.  Has anti-inflammatory properties.  It can stimulate blood circulation, promote metabolism, prevent wrinkles, promote fair skin, balance skin's pH level, and can effectively promote wound healing.

Sodium Hyaluronate
Balances skin's pH through the skin.  With long use, it will lock the moisture in the skin.  A great softener that moisturizes the skin with a non-greasy formula.

Phenoxyethanol
Can lessen allergies / sensitivities.

Green Tea Extract
Anti-inflammatory and anti-stimulant properties.  Can fight free radicals.

PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
A frequently used ingredient in cosmetics and oral intake products.

Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Gives moisturizing and soothing effects like an emulsifier.

Methylparaben
A preservative ingredient

Alpha Hydroxy (AHA)
Minimizes wrinkles, increase metabolism, has moisturizing and exfoliating micro peeling effects.

Arbutin
Balances skin tone, lightens dark spots, stabilizes and fights free radicals, conditions the damage caused by the skin, enhances skin moisture and has whitening effects.

Ougon Extract
Whitening property

Hydrogenated Collagen
Maintains skin tightness and elasticity.  Allow easier absorption into the skin.

Licorice Extract
Contains anti-oxidants, enhances skin's immunity, can brighten dull skin, minimize dark spots, softens skin, balances skin tone, fights wrinkles, dark spots and free radicals.  Helps minimize the appearance of pores.

Tip:
This solution can be used morning and night.  Can be sprayed onto skin or padded on with cotton pad or soaked with facial mask and left on for 10-15 minutes.  Has micro peeling effects, soften your skin, and allows skin to absorb enough water moisture.

Two products:
1.  Pro-Moist Skin Lotion, The Hydrogel Whitening Toner - known as Korean's Miracle Water
Besides balancing skin tone, it can prevent pigmentation and contains whitening properties.  It allows better nutrient absorption.  It balances the skin's pH to promote soft and healthy skin to prevent moisture loss.

2.  Pro-Moist Drink Up Pack, The Facial Mask
This mask allows skin to drink up moisture at a super speed.  It has refreshing and moisturizing effects, allowing layers of skin to absorb enough water moisture.  Enhances skin's elasticity, promote brightening effects and can be used on lips.  Effects are immediate and visible after use.


**Translation may not be exact and it is somewhat paraphase but the general idea is there.

For those who have never been familiar with Arumee, hope this helped you better understand their product line.  This article is linked to a website where these two products can be purchased, but they were selling limited quantities and now they're sold out.  But here is the website, click here.

Review: Shiseido The Skincare Night Moisture Recharge

This product comes in three versions: light, regular and enriched.  When I bought this at the Shiseido and Nars warehouse sale, I assumed the regular Night Moisture Recharge was just right for me.  I had the thought that super hydration at night was perfect but thinking about it now, I should have gotten the light version.

The scent: It has a floral scent but doesn't smell like synthetic.  It smells more like actual flowers.

Consistency: It is a lotion that is more runny than thick.

Application:  After cleansing and toner / softener, I take two pumps of hydrating B5 serum, then apply this lotion by giving less than one pump on my palm and rubbing my palms together before patting and pressing the lotion on.

Packaging:  It has a pump dispenser.  Comes with 75 mL or 2.5 fl oz of product.

What it claims:  "A multi-action nighttime revitalizer that counteracts signs of daytime damage and delivers intensive hydrating benefits to skin while you sleep. Restores softness, smoothness, and a healthy-looking glow."

Thoughts / Results:
This product line - The Skincare - is designed for normal and combination skin which is suppose to be the right version for my skin type but I dislike the immediate greasy or sticky after-feeling.  But the sticky feeling does go away after 2 to 3 hours.  It's definitely not a lightweight lotion.  In terms of its claims, I don't feel much change in the texture of my skin.  It didn't give me a softer or smoother skin.  However after one week of using this lotion, I started noticing a slight - like very tiny - radiance in my skin the next morning.  I can't tell how it counteracts signs of daytime damage because I don't see any changes to the little sun damages on my skin.  Perhaps the change is too miniscule for me to notice.  Or maybe the daytime damage it means is your skin loses moisture during the day and this lotion is suppose to recover the dehydration damage at night. 

At first I couldn't recognize the scent of this lotion, it wasn't deterring but I just wasn't fond of it.  After maybe 3 weeks of using it, I realize it's the smell of actual flowers.  And yes, I don't like the authentic scent of flowers.

It's really easy to use up too much of this lotion, but a small amount - like half a pump - is good enough because this lotion is an intensive hydrating overnight treatment.  Too much of it will only make you feel greasy or oily and not necessary help your skin get more hydrated.

I'd say this lotion is best for normal/combination skin individuals during the winter when our skin loses the most moisture.  Well most people don't have lacking moisture problems during the summer or even you do, make sure you drink enough water to replenish your internal body moisture. 

Cost:  $55 CAD / $42.50 USD MSRP @Sephora (I bought my bottle from Shiseido and NARS warehouse sale for $30 CAD)

Product:  Shiseido The Skincare Night Moisture Recharge
Rating: 3.5 / 5

Pros:
- Maintains the moisture in your skin not necessary improves it
- One pump or even less is enough for the entire face
- Gives very little radiance in my skin the next morning
- No problems with milia or breakouts
- Have no problems with applying foundation; no cakiness

Cons:
- Price
- Sticky / greasy after-feel
- Hydrating effects are not observable the next morning
- Not fond of the scent

Sasa.com Haul

Last week, I placed my first order from Sasa.com.  *Yay*  Since last October, I've been afraid to place online orders over $80 because of Canada customs tax.  I'm relieved my Sasa order didn't get taxed.  *phew*  I spent over $90 USD on my haul, some of which I've been meaning to purchase.

1.  Suzuran Attirer puff (120 sheets) - $1.60 USD
These cotton pads are made of 100% cotton.  I've read some good reviews on them for being inexpensive and good quality, so I thought I've give them a try.  I suppose they're similar to the Shiseido 100% cotton pads but an inexpensive version.

2.  Thursday Plantation Tea Tree medicated gel for acne (25 g) - $12.80 USD
For the past 8 months or so, I've been breaking out under my cheekbones, on the chin and forehead.  My breakout period is nearly over and my skin is clearing up, returning to its appearance a year ago.  =)  Like every girl, I really want to minimize the forming of maturing pimples; so after a bit of researching and reading up reviews, I decided to purchase this in hopes of taming my random breakouts.

3.  JUJU Cosmetics AQUAMOIST Hyaluronic Acid Whitening & Moisture Milky Lotion - $14.90 USD
It's summer and as much as I love tanning once in a while, I'd love to have backup products to whiten and brighten my skin.

4.  OMI Salanoveil SPF 50 PA+++ White UV Cut Lotion (40 mL) - $7.10 USD
This should be an interesting product to use as it has a high SPF, whitening ingredients, moisturize and re-hydrates the skin.

5.  Hada Labo Shirojyun Arbutin Whitening Essence (30 g) - $21.10 USD


Again, a whitening product I've been meaning to purchase for its whitening effects.  Some say it works, other way it doesn't but I've have to see for myself.

6.  Sana Hadanomy Collagen Mist (250 mL) - $12.70 USD
I've purchased a lot of toner lately but I've read a lot of good reviews for its effects - allowing better foundation application.  **update: this is NOT a toner.  Supposedly, this product gives skin super hydration so again, I'm looking forward to try this out.

7.  Sana Super Quick Liquid Eyeliner Ex - $11.20 USD
This last time I purchased a felt-tip liquid eyeliner, it was the MAC penultimate eyeliner and honestly, it sucked.  So I was a little iffy about purchasing another felt-tip liquid eyeliner.  I've been fine with gel and pencil eyeliners but I thought I'd give another liquid eyeliner another try since I prefer the precise and sharp line it gives.

8.  AB Mezical Double Eyelid Eyelift Fibers (60 pieces) - $12.60 USD
Looking at my past photos on here, you would see that I have double eyelids.  So why did I buy these? Well I'm starting to notice I have hooded eyes.  Apparently they can develop with age and many Asians have this issue.  So after a bit of researching online, I found out double eyelid tapes can solve that problem.  I'll probably need plenty of practise.  =\

9.  Biore Facial Foaming Whitening (100 mL) - $3.90 USD
A facial cleanser for less than $4 USD? How can I pass up on this?

10.  Nail Clipper - free gift
The only practical gift I found useful beside the lipstick pen and bookmark.

This is my first time ordering from Sasa.com.  I know there are a lot of people who have made online purchases from Sasa.com but I'm sure there are a few other people out there who aren't sure or feel iffy about ordering from them.  Well here's my experience and opinion of them:
1.  It took me a LONG time deciding to place an order.  Call me frugal but $18 USD for shipping is a bit too much.  I mean for that amount I could've purchase another product.  It was either spend $18 on shipping or spend over $100 for free shipping.  I did select standard shipping that would usually cost me $18 USD but during the time I placed my order, Sasa.com had a "buy SPF products and receive free shipping worldwide".  So I had no excuse but to take up this offer.  If you were to make a purchase from Sasa.com, I'd recommend gathering a list of things you want to purchase and just make one big order.  Otherwise, it's not worth it.

2.  I was lucky that Canadian customs didn't tax me.  I've heard people were taxed before which was another reason I hesitated on placing my order.  With my previous experiences, customs make their own estimate of the value of your package and put a 18% tax on it which makes it a hefty cost.

3.  The ETA of my package was supposedly 7 - 14 days.  I placed my order on May 14 and received it today, May 23.  Compared to Adambeauty.com, Sasa ships a little faster.

4.  They provide a tracking number and signature confirmation.  It ensure delivery confirmation.  I can use the tracking number to track the shipping progress of my parcel.  Again, a shipping option I prefer.

5.  I enjoy purchasing from Sasa since they offer lower prices and some products are not available in Canada.

6.  I love how their website has so much variety to choose from.  There are always new products.  But if you're looking or waiting for them to replenish their stock, it's a long wait.  For example, I was looking to purchase the Borghese face mask but they didn't have any in stock last week.  I visit it again today and they're still not available.

7.  In terms of packaging, they don't individually bubble wrap everything like Cosme-de.com and their box isn't a sturdy one.  There are a lot of styrofoam packaging inside.  Although nothing inside was damaged, the box itself had a rough ride across the world to my house.

8.  Website description of each product can be found in different languages based on what country and language you select.  However on the packaging, it is mostly Chinese or Japanese.  A disadvantage for those who can't read either language.

Review: Shiseido The Skincare Hydro-balancing softener

Does your skin need hydration? Even with a good moisturizer, it is just not hydrating enough without a hydrating softener / toner / lotion.  This is something I learned recently.  The technique to apply your toner / softener / lotion and moisturizer is just as important.  My first impression of this Shiseido Hydro-balancing softener was not good.  The scent was not the best and I didn't see a change in my skin after using it.  But after some time of using it with a different approach, my thoughts have changed.

The scent: A floral scent but not a refreshing one

Consistency: Clear watery solution

Application: Soaking the cotton pad with around 4 - 5 pumps of softener, I lightly and swiftly tap / pat it upwards on my skin.  You know your cotton pad is soaked enough if you hear a sound when you tap / pat it on your skin.  The sound that you hear when you tap the water surface of a pool or bucket of water.  However, the nose area requires a slower pat and lightly press motion

Packaging:  It comes in a pump dispenser which I prefer over a twisting-cap bottle.  You get 150 mL or 5 fl oz of product.

What it claims: "A gentle, alcohol-free lotion that instantly softens and rehydrates the skin for enhanced suppleness."

Thoughts / Results:
Like I said before, my first impressions of this product was not the best.  I thought it did nothing for me but I learned that patting the solution on your skin does make a difference.  I used to simply rub it all over my skin with a cotton pad then thinking this product did nothing for me.  Now that I've used a different approach to apply this softener, I saw a difference.  My skin does feel and look more hydrated as claimed on Shiseido's website.  Although I agree this softener helped my skin, I don't agree with their claim of 'instantly' softening the skin.  My skin is most noticeably soft overnight but definitely not instantly.  My nose skin doesn't flake and my foundation applies on better than before. Therefore, I can really see the difference of how this softener helped my moisturizer get absorbed into my skin.  I've been breaking out lately and I get these huge pimples where once they pop, it shrivels up and that area of my skin dries out and flakes.  But after pressing and patting the softener on, allowing my skin receive more hydration, my skin has gotten a lot better.  Even without makeup, my skin has a dewy, radiant glow.

Another good thing about this product is alcohol-free.  Well for the product to be hydrating, it must not have alcohol; otherwise your skin will dry out.

So, this softener is a great product but not with proper technique. 

Cost: $44 CAD / $36 USD MSRP @Sephora (I bought it for $25 CAD at Shiseido & NARS warehouse sale)

Product: Shiseido The Skincare Hydro-Balancing Softener Alcohol-free
Rating: 4.5 / 5

Pros:
- Hydrating
- Softens your skin overnight
- Allows better moisturizer absorption

Cons:
- Price -- in order to saturate your cotton pad like what the directions say, you use up a lot of product

How I met a Bitter Person yesterday...

Call me judgmental or stereotypical and a hypocrite but I am one of those people who hates to judge a book by its cover yet I STILL do it.  Yesterday my cousin asked me if I have any female family physician I can recommend her.  I told her about mine who is young and she's opened a fairly new clinic nearby, so we drove over to the clinic to book an appointment.  There were two receptionists there and I kindly asked the elder one if they would accept my cousin as their patient.  Instead of kindly responding with a 'no Dr. "so-and-so" is currently not accepting new patients', she VERY rudely said no.  So right off the bat, I could tell what kind of woman she was.  Here's where I'm a hypocrite, I say I don't judge a book by its cover yet I still do it.  From my experience as a part-time receptionist and a few other jobs where I worked as a customer service rep, I can tell what kind of a person she was.  She has clearly been working at that job for a fair number of years, and probably feels confident, full of pride and well-respected for her seniority.  She is probably quite bitter about either the job or where she is in life - what I mean is 15 years down the road, she will probably still be behind that desk checking in patients and asking them for their health cards.  She is most likely the kind that will gossip about you behind your back AND give you an attitude in front of your face without being self-conscious of how she presents herself.
Anyways after she said a "no", LUCKILY my physician was behind the receptionist, I kindly ask my physician if she can take just one more patient.  So she asked my cousin, other than myself, are any of our relatives patients of their clinic and whether she was coming in for illness or a check-up.  We answered her then the receptionist HAPPEN to see a time slot available yesterday so she accepted my cousin as her patient.  *Yay*  The receptionist told my cousin to fill in the new patient form and told her to wait 15 mins. .... You would THINK everything is happy joy-joy after this... but NOOOoo, the receptionist HAD to voice her opinion VERY loudly - like she doesn't need a microphone for me to hear her from the other end of the clinic.  Her words were not only loud but also subtly attacked us.  She turned to look at my physician and sarcastically says "oh doctor why don't you accept ME as your patient too? I'm SoooOOo lucky today.  Really, I'm sooo lucky.  I'm the one-thousand-and-one....." Then she also said some other crap but I just totally ignored her after the first two sentences that came out of her mouth.  Honestly, is that even necessary??? Please stop humiliating yourself; you're probably in your early 40s, so woman, act your age.  I mean I understand that I "jumped" over the receptionist to approach the doctor and asked her to accept a new patient AND she agreed.  So she was probably a little angry at me for doing that because she lost a bit of respect there.  But dearie, you work for the doctor.  If the doctor - who is YOUR employer - gives a nod, I'm sorry but you don't have a say.  And if it's not your position to give an opinion, then shut up and just go along with it.  Because honestly, your opinion is irrelevant, it won't change anything after the decision has been made.  ... Like I looked at her, and all I saw was just a fool who was clearly angry but she couldn't do anything about it ... Funny thing is before I left, I smiled and said 'thank you'.  I'm sure that bothered her but if she wasn't so rude to start off with, I probably would not have "stepped over her" to personally ask the doctor.

Sooo from this, I once again proved to myself that having a high EQ is very important in life.  There are people who will always attack you in every possible way at all times; but as long as you hold yourself together and not retaliate in such situations, you will not only get what you want but also see that you are at a different level than they are.  It is what you do that defines YOU and makes you a better person than they are.

Fake VS Authentic Hair Magic Sheets and review

When I first heard of Hair Magic Sheets, I really wanted to try them out for the purpose of pulling back my bangs when applying makeup.  My hair can easily flatten if I use a headband or crimps if I use a hair clip.  Now, I bought my first Hair Magic Sheets from eBay for $0.99 USD but two years later, I bought the authentic Hair Magic Sheets by Dariya on Adambeauty.  And yes there is a significant difference between the real and fake Hair Magic Sheets.

Left: Fake ; Right: Authentic

Differences:
- Length of the fake one is shorter
- The sides of the fake one will deteriorate and strands of plastic will loosen
- The fake one doesn't function as well as the authentic - meaning hair will not stay fixed or held up
- Material of the fake one is a lot more flimsy than the authentic one
- Packaging of the authentic says 'Made in Japan' while fake one says "Made in China"
- Price difference $0.99 USD (fake) VS $4.50 USD (authentic)

Product: Dariya Hair Magic Sheet (Pink)
Rating: 5 / 5

Pros:
- Comes in three colors: Pink, Blue and Black
- Doesn't ruin your hair while applying my makeup
- Durable and long-lasting

Cons:
- Probably price - for 2 sheets, it's $2.25 USD per sheet which is pricier than hair clips and headbands

Review: MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural in Medium Plus

I've finally finished my first MAC product! Yay!

Consistency: Pressed powder

Application: I set my foundation with the MAC powder using a kabuki or powder brush.

Packaging:  It's a plastic black case with snap closure.  It comes with plastic cover in the case.

What it claims:  "A luxurious domed face powder with minerals, slowly baked to provide a dimensional yet natural-matte finish. Provides perfect low coverage. Use to set and fix foundation or as a touch-up throughout the day."

Thoughts / Results:
According to the MAC cosmetics website, this MSF gives low coverage to set your foundation and make touch-ups throughout the day.  I agree with the low coverage and it's basically a setting compact powder.  For me, coverage is not enough, can easily cake up on my face and accentuates my pores.

The packaging is not sleek enough to be kept in my handbag and there is no mirror or tool to do touch-ups.  It's not convenient to carry a powder brush in my handbag.  Although I don't like the low coverage and the inconvenient packaging, this MSF does have a good matifying effect.  The effect lasts around 2 - 3 hours before touch-up is needed.

I would say this powder is geared towards those with near perfect skin - those that don't need much coverage and small pores.

Cost: $34 CAD

Product:  MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural in Medium Plus
Rating: 2 / 5

Pros:
- Matifies the skin for a few hours

Cons:
- Inconvenient packaging to take on the go
- Not enough coverage
- Can get cakey on the skin
- Magnifies my pores

Review: Shiseido Pureness Matifying Moisturizer Oil-free

The Shiseido Pureness Matifying Moisturizer Oil-free was the very first non-drug store moisturizer I have ever used back in grade 9.  Last year, I bought my 2nd bottle of Matifying Moisturizer at the Shiseido & NARS warehouse sale and finished it recently.  Age really does change your skin.  I can feel the moisturizer wasn't as effective on my skin compared to 10 years ago.

The scent:  A light floral scent that smells and feels refreshing.

Consistency:  Texture of a lotion.  Not too thick, not really runny.

Application:  Cleanse the skin, use a toner and finally moisturize. 

Packaging:  Moisturizer dispenses via a pump.

What it claims:  "A lightweight moisturizer, with oil-absorbing powder, that helps reduce surface shine as it provides exceptional hydration to skin. Feels refreshing and ultra-sheer.
Protects the skin's natural moisture balance with Shiseido-exclusive ingredient Hydro-Balancing Complex*, containing botanical extract Palo Azul."

Thoughts / Results:
This lotion is for combination or normal skin individuals.  This means it's best to help people with oily T-zone.  This product claims to provide great hydration to the skin while matifying it on oily areas, but it is not hydrating enough for me.  It does have oil-absorbing ingredient(s) that effectively matifies my skin.  However, on other areas - i.e. the cheek - it's not hydrating enough.  This is prominent when my skin looks cakey with foundation and setting powder on.  Yet I find that even without a hydrating moisturizer, a toner / softener can do help hydrate the skin.  Therefore without a good toner, Shiseido's Matifying Moisturizer is not hydrating enough for makeup to glide on without caking up.  Although it applies on feeling sheer, my foundation doesn't glide on flawlessly even with foundation primer on.  And because of these qualities, I'd recommend using this moisturizer during the day rather than at night and apply it under your foundation.  At night, I'd find a more hydrating moisturizer.

Cost:  $22 CAD @Shiseido and NARS Warehouse Sale (MSRP $40 CAD / $33 USD)

Product:  Shiseido Pureness Matifying Moisturizer Oil-free
Rating: 3 / 5

Pros:
- Matifies skin
- Feels refreshing and sheer

Cons:
- Not hydrating enough

Review: Cake Satin Sugar Hair & Body Refreshing Powder - for darker hues

Have you ever woken up late for work or school but realize your hair looks and feels greasy as ever? After the invention of dry shampoo, they have come pretty useful in these times.  Before dry shampoo, people would use baby powder.  As a dark hair individual, baby powder doesn't work as well.  IMO, Cake Beauty's hair powder works better than the Batiste dry shampoo and Johnson Johnson's baby powder but the scent is just too sweet for me.

The scent:  Like many Cake Beauty's products, this hair powder has a sweet dessert smell. 

Consistency:  Loose powder

Application:  I sprinkle some powder on the hands then rub the powder at the roots.

Packaging:  The powder is in a cardboard container.  Twist the top lid to pour out its content.

Thoughts / Results:
I find this hair powder works really well as I can rub it in my hair in the morning and still not get any greasy feeling by night.  Even though I find it works well, its scent can get a little irritating for me.  The scent is too sweet.  I wish they made a fragrance-free hair powder. 

Cost:  $18 CAD @Sephora or Cake Beauty Online Shop

Product:  Cake Satin Sugar Hair & Body Refreshing Powder - for darker hues
Rating: 4 / 5

Pros:
- Works really well
- Colour is perfect and blendable with a brush

Cons:
- The scent is too sweet for my liking

Review: Lancome Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover

Eye makeup remover is one of the must-have products in your skincare routine.  You can try using a regular facial makeup remover but it may not remove all the makeup and/or cause eye irritation.  It is an extra step but it's necessary.  There are times when I feel lazy and I wish there was one product that could remove all my makeup in one step.  But maintaining beauty has a cost.  You need to work for it.  This bottle of Lancome Bi-Facil eye makeup remover has been known for its amazing results, where one swipe will remove all the eye makeup.  Effortless.  Efficient.  And it's true.  But all for a cost, and it's a pricey one.

The scent:  A light floral scent

Consistency:  It has two liquidity layers - oil and water -based layers.

Application:  Product must be shaken prior to use, allowing the two layers to mix and effectively remove eye makeup.  I pour about a quarter size on a cotton pad and hold it against my eye for about 10 seconds, then wipe it off. 

Packaging:  Bottle has 4.2 fl oz or 125 mL of product.  Bottle comes with no box, just a sealed plastic wrap around the cap.  The bottle opening is less than 0.5 cm wide, which avoids massive spills. 

What it claims: "The double-phase liquid is fresh as water yet removes even waterproof eye makeup.  Gentle enough for sensitive eyes."

Thoughts / Results:
Again, results are amazing.  I can effortlessly remove eye makeup.  The product leaves my eye lids feeling a little too oily but since I follow up with a facial cleansing step, the oily eye lids don't matter.

Cost: $34 CAD (Current MSRP is $35 CAD)

Product: Lancome Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup
Rating: 4.5 / 5

Pros:
- Effortlessly and efficiently removes eye makeup

Cons:
- Price

Review: Cle De Peau Essence Contre Sebum - Oil Balancing Gel

Back in 2008, my mom and I traveled to Hong Kong to visit some relatives.  The weather in Asia is very different from here in Canada.  My skin was constantly oily and because the air in Hong Kong is humid and polluted, I could take a tissue and wipe off black dirt from a day's worth of being outdoors.  So when we made a side trip to Japan, we went to a department store where they sold different high end brands.  I had no idea what Cle De Peau was back then.  I walked up to a Shiseido counter (a brand I recognized) and the sales lady introduced me to this product.  I later did some research on Cle De Peau and realized it's a higher end brand distributed by Shiseido.  In terms of effects, I find it works really well.

The scent: A light minty smell

Consistency:  Gel form

Application: After using cleanser and toner, I only dab this product on pimples and rub a bit of it on the nose and chin.  Then I follow up with some moisturizer.

Packaging:  Comes in a pump.  Very hygienic.  Comes in 30 g.

What it claims: "A gel that suppresses excess T-zone oils and helps reduce the appearance of enlarged pores."

Thoughts / Results:
The scent is so light that once applied, you can't smell it.  It's in the form of gel so its effects are long-lasting.  I find it's more effective after exfoliating and cleansing the skin so that the pores are unclogged.  That way it can shrink up the pores, leaving little space for formation of blackheads.  Effects are also immediate.  I can see my skin instantly matifies after application without flaking the skin.  It's best used at night because underneath primer and foundation, it may form clumps if you don't let it dry completely.

Each application doesn't require much and the pump packaging gives me enough product.

Cost:  Around ¥5000 (equivalent to ~$60 CAD)

Product: Cle De Peau Essence Contre Sebum
Rating: 4.5 / 5

Pros:
- Effectively matifies skin
- Shrinks the appearance of pores
- Can feel and see nose and chin aren't as oily throughout the day
- Leaving product on a pimple overnight can really shrink it up

Cons:
- Very pricey

Shiseido & Nars Warehouse Sale - May 2012 Haul

Today's the last day of the sale and I decided I should go.  I'm pretty proud of myself =).  From my first haul of the sale back in May of 2010 to the present day May 2012, I have severely minimized my spending.
Compared to my past visits to these sales on Saturdays and Sundays, this sale has introduced three new brands that were not there before - Bare Minerals, Buxom and Cle De Peau.  They're also selling more Orlane products, NARS lip products, less makeup bags and Shiseido lip products.  There are Shiseido Sunscreen SPF 33 and 50 for sale, which is the first time I've seen them sold on Saturday and Sunday sales.  I would've bought the SPF 50 but I'm still using the bottle I bought last year.
Prices have gone up again - which for some makeup products - is probably not a good idea since not many people are buying them.

1.  Joico Skin Luxe Whipped Body Butter in Pink Vanilla - $3 CAD
I love body butters and for $3, I definitely had to grab one.  I tested it before purchasing and it's not bad.  No greasy after feeling but I was a little worried about how moisturizing it is, so I just picked up one.
2.  NARS concealer in Vanilla / Honey - $10 CAD (MSRP $38 CAD / $30 USD)
3.  NARS concealer in Custard / Ginger - $10 CAD (MSRP $38 CAD / $30 USD)

Review: Clean & Clear Oil-Absorbing Sheets

One of the many must-have beauty product to take on the go is oil-absorbing sheets.  Throughout the day, whether you're wearing makeup or not, your pores begin to clog because of debris and human natural oil in the T-zone area and maybe below the cheekbones.  There are ways to matify your skin, like using compact pressed powder, but I prefer to matify the skin with oil-absorbing sheets.  They are readily available in drugstores but in Canada, they are quite pricey.

I suggest looking on eBay first.  I have seen some Japanese brand oil-absorbing sheets but I haven't tried them.

Application:  Lightly rub or pat the oil-absorbing sheet in the T-zone area and under the cheekbones.

Packaging:  Comes with a total of 50 sheets.  Convenient packaging where a piece of double-sized tape will adhere to the top sheet once it's closed, in preparation for your next use.  Once you open the packaging to grab the next sheet, it'll be readil and easily accessible.  Basically, each time you close and open the packaging, it takes out one sheet. 

What it claims: "CLEAN and CLEAR Oil-Absorbing Sheets instantly soak up excess oil and remove shine from your face, without smudging makeup or leaving behind powder.  Softer than paper, these silky sheets can be used easily around your nose and other areas of your face.  Use them anytime, anywhere to remove oil and shine throughout the day."

Thoughts / Results:
I find myself going back to these oil-absorbing sheets every time I deviate away from them.  They immediately absorb and removes the oil on my face, thus achieves matifying results.  The packaging claims it doesn't smudge makeup, which I think it holds true.  However, during the removal of face oil, it does slightly remove a bit of foundation, meaning I have seen a bit of my foundation on the blue sheet.  You can tell the oil-absorbing sheets are working when the blue sheet turns transparent, acting like an indicator. 

Cost: $2.50 CAD @Lisa's Cosmetics Warehouse sale (MSRP $6.99 CAD)

Clean sheet

After use

Product: Clean & Clear Oil-Absorbing Sheets
Rating: 5 / 5

Pros:
- Absorbs excess oil
- Great packaging
- Nice travel-size to toss in the handbag
- Effective oil-absorbing indicator

Cons:
- None

Shiseido Warehouse Sale

I've been meaning to put this up but seem to always fail to remember until the actual day comes.  The Shiseido and NARS Warehouse Sale is happening tomorrow - well technically today since it's past midnight.

 Where?

303 Allstate Parkway

Markham, Ontario

When?

May 5th, 2012 - 9AM to 5PM

May 6th, 2012 - 9AM to 3PM

Any other info I need to know?

- Arrive early to get in early

- Bring breakfast to wait in line

- Maybe bring some makeup wipes

- Watch your spending, have a budget

- Be ready to get pushed and shoved

Have fun! =)

Sadly, I'm working on Saturday so I'm not heading there.  I might go on Sunday. 

Adambeauty.com Haul

It's been 9 months since I shopped online for beauty items.  I've read lots of good haul purchased from Adambeauty.com so I thought I should give it a shot.  I bought a few necessities and things I need to restock.

1.  Cogit Washing Epi Towel - $15 USD
As you rub this towel diagonally on your back, it can catch on to your back hair thus making it feel softer.  I guess it works like a loofah so it'll be interesting to try this out.

2.  Freshel White C Cleansing Oil A - $15 USD
After finishing the Bobbi Brown Cleansing Oil, I had to resort to other makeup removal products but seems like I haven't found a cheaper alternative to it.  So I thought I should give this a try and see how much I like it.  I've read some decent reviews on it, so I'll have to see how effective and true this oil works.

3. Hada Labo Gokujyun Lotion (Moist and Light) - $16.50 USD each
According to the Hada Labo website, in Japan, this lotion sells 1 in every 4 seconds.  So I'm very eager to try them out and see what results they give.

4.  Dariya Hair Magic Sheet in Pink - $4.50 USD
Remember how I bought a pair of these knock offs from eBay? Well I've finally bought an authentic pack! So I might do a review on them and talk about their differences.

5.  Shiseido Powder Puff #123 - $8.50 USD
Lately, I've been using MAC's Select Sheer / Loose powder and I needed an extra one.  I purposely chose a big puff because I find it's easier to manipulate.

Now this is my first time experience ordering from Adambeauty.com.  Here is my thought on it:
1.  Shipping is cheap, $2.  The store mails via registered lettermail, meaning they give you a tracking number.  I personally like to see the shipping progress of my parcel.
2.  I didn't get charged customs tax - a good thing.  Though I think customs is a little looser with makeup and skincare packages.
3.  Shipping is considered pretty fast since I ordered on the night of April 24 and receive it today, May 3.
4.  Adambeauty does offer lower prices on many items compared to other Asian beauty online shops.  Yet the cheapest I've seen is Sasa.com.
5.  The website needs to be regularly updated.  Seems like this online store doesn't have many staff working on there as a lot of their items are out of stock and not frequently replenished.
6.  Package came in a large envelope as opposed to a box, which probably saves the company on shipping supplies but still probably not the best idea.  The company did wrap my items in bubble wrap.
7.  Product descriptions are written in Chinese.  A big disadvantage for those who can't read Chinese.  Then again, there's always Google Translate. =)

Review: NARS The Mulitple in Turks & Caicos

Cream blush on a stick? I didn't have a good experience with my last cream blush, Stila Convertible Cream Blush.  So honestly, I was skeptical purchasing this, not just because it's a cream blush but also it's a bright orange colour.  From my experiences, orange doesn't look good on me as it makes me look yellow.  But this multiple didn't.  I would have never bothered to pick up this product to even swatch it if it weren't for the girl that worked there.  She wasn't trying to push me to buy it but she casually told me she was wearing this same product on her cheeks and the colour isn't as orange as it looks when applied on.  Believe it or not, when this cream blush oxidizes - meaning it comes into contact with air - on your skin, it will appear more pink.  And yes, it is a pretty colour.  I believe this product was a special edition NARS Multiple in Summer of 2010, but I purchased this at the Shiseido and Nars warehouse sale last year. 

The scent: No scent

Consistency: Cream

Application:  I warm up the product with my ring finger by directly rubbing it.  I lightly dab the product on my finger onto my cheeks.

Maximum extension - all the product

Packaging:  It's in the form of a stick.  Twist it to lift the product out of the packaging.

Thoughts / Results:
Because I bought this at the warehouse sale, it doesn't come in a paper boxed packaging.  Personally, I prefer this cream stick packaging over the typical sleek compact case.  The packaging or the product itself doesn't get messy over time.

Because this is a cream product and for individuals like myself who uses foundation to achieve a uniform complexion, the blush doesn't dry completely on top of liquid or cream foundation.  It's the foundation that causes the sticky, non-drying feel.  Applying pressed powder to set my foundation will only make my cheeks appear cakey.

I've experimented with the multiple to test its lasting power:
1.  Primer + liquid foundation + The Multiple = Blush didn't last 6 hours
2.  Primer + liquid foundation + The Multiple + Powder Blush = Lasted at least 8 hours and was wearing off

I suspect if this cream blush were to apply directly on skin with no foundation, it would last a long time as well.

Overall, the colour itself is very nice.  The quality of the product is good.  It applies sheer, very easy to blend and has a relatively lasting power.

Cost:  $15 CAD @Shiseido and NARS warehouse sale (MSRP: $46 CAD / $39 USD)

Swatched twice

Product: NARS The Multiple in Turks & Caicos
Rating: 4. 5 / 5

Pros:
- Great staying power
- Colour is nice
- Easily blendable
- Applies sheer and slightly buildable
- Multi-uses - eyes, lips and cheeks
- Nourishing

Cons:
- Have to avoid pressed powder so that cheeks won't cake

Lisa's Cosmetics Warehouse Sale - May 2012 Haul

Yes, I went to another Lisa's Cosmetics Warehouse sale.  Did I get much? No.  I couldn't make it to the first 2 days of the sale but it didn't matter much as I didn't get much on my two trips - Monday and Tuesday.  I went with a friend on Monday, it was her first time there.  I thought she would be more happy about the makeup part of the sale but she was totally awestruck by the amount of brand name perfumes that were sold there.  Here are the beauty products I bought:

Left to right:
$25 - Burberry Brit Sheer 30mL / 1 fl oz
$6.99 - Nivea Creme 400mL
$6 - Marcelle Purity Soothing Cleansing Water 200mL / 6 fl oz
$1.49 - Tivoli Cosmetics Criss-Cross False Lashes
$1.49 - Tivoli Cosmetics Natural False Lashes

Update: I've failed to mention Lisa's Cosmetics has started to sell ~H20+ skincare.