Laneige Skincare Product review

For the past two weeks, i've been using a few of Laneige products that i purchased in Toronto Chinatown. If you are interested in Laneige product, i know that you can find it at pacific mall & chinatown: Dragon city, main floor. Both of these locations are in toronto. If you know any other places that have Laneige, please kindly share, by leaving me a comment below. thanks~

I bought the big bottle, the two others were free samples recieved with my purchase.


I first found out about Laneige skincare product from a Youtube guru, Bubzbeauty. I thought this brand can not be found anywhere in Canada, and i thought it was just all hyped up, but at the same time i was very interested in trying it, because their packaging looks sooo pretty! yes - i'm quite a sucker for packaging. plus, the lovely, Song Hye Kyo models for that brand, so what more do i have to say?

While wondering around Chinatown, i happen to bump into Laneige, and decided to give it a try since the price range was definitely more affordable then i expected.

Before i go on with the review. I would just like to rank the items from favourite to least

Laneige Professional Makeup Remover Multi Cleanser (Rating 5/5) - Highly Recommended
Laneige Water Bank Cream 2_EX (Rating 4/5)
Laneige Balancing Emulsion 2_EX (Rating 3/5)

Laneige Balancing Emulsion 2_EX

for Combination to Oily skin type.

Snow Crystal Clear & Hydraded skin with Snow water science



Properties:
120 m / 4.1 fl.oz
lotion texture
glass bottle with pump
light citrus scent

Price: $35 CAD cash

Ingredients:water, dimethicone, butylene, glycol, alcohol, glyerin, cetyl ethylhexanoate, betaine, pentaerthrityl tetraethylhexanoate, water(himalaya snow water), musa sapientum(banana) fruit extract, vitis vinifera(grape) fruit extract, vitis vinifera (grape) fruit extract, citrus medica limonum(lemon) fruit extract, solanum lycopersicum (tomato) fruit/ leaf/stem extract, cetearyl alcohol, cyclopentasiloxane, glyeryl stearate, ....

The Pros
-leaves slight shine, but dries pretty matte
-easily spreads across the face
-absorbs into the skin well
-affordable
-convenient and sanitary
-softens the skin

The Cons
-does not provide any other benefits besides moisturizing
-thick, heavy bottle
-the lotion is a little too liquidity for my own personal liking
-does not have spf
-not moisturizing enough for me, perhapes because it's in a liquid form

Recommended For
-the summer
-those with normal, (maybe)combination, but definitely oily skintype

Repurchase? Probably not, i like it, but i don't love it. It doesn't have that wow factor, and I guess i much more perfer cream, or gel based moisturizer. But, the main reason i will not repurchase this is, because i've found a different Laneige cream i'm in LOVE with.




My Experience

This is an average moisturizer. I do like the formula, and i like how easily it spreads and blends into my skin. It reminds me of a My Beauty Diary Mask in a cream form. It smellls like it too! You really don't need a lot, one pump is more then enough for the entire face. After applying, my face is matte when it's completely dry. However, i feel it can be a bit more moisturizing. Nonetheless, it's perfect for the summer only. If you have very dry flaking skin, this would not work.

PDATE When i wrote this review, i thought this was a moisturizer, however i've been told that this product is used prior to a moisturizing to aid the moisturizer in absorbing into the skin. I will re-review this soon, with my new skin regime. Sorry for any misunderstanding!

Laneige Water Bank Cream 2_EX

for Combination skin type.

advanced Nano lipsome supplying cream for combination skin type



Properties:

thick clear gel texture
tube form
light citrus scent

The Pros
-goes on matte
-easily spreads across the face
-absorbs into the skin well
-convenient and sanitary
-texture is amazing!
-very moisturizing and makes skin feels smooth

The Cons

-doesn't have spf

Recommended for
-combination to normal skintype

Repurchase?YES! after trying to sample size, i definitely would like to get the full tube!



My Experience

What really amazed me about this moisturizer is the texture. It is a gel based moisturizer that has a thick consistency, similar to that of Smashbox Photofinish Primer, and it really does feel like one! It's gives my face a smooth canvas, and it's wonderful for applying foundation on. Not only that, i can feel the gel on my face, and i love how little i have to use. A pea size amount of this gel is enough for the entire face. It doesn't make my face feel greasy, or shiny, and it dries completely matte. If you get a chance to try this moisturizer, i really recommend it.

Laneige Professional Makeup Remover Multi Cleanser

for all skin type.

makeup removing, foam cleansing and micro scrubbing 3-in-1 effect provides soft and clean feeling after wash



Properties:

thick, pink cream, with micro scrubs
tube form
light florally scent

The Pros
-gentle and foams easily
-leaves skin feeling squeeky clean
-removes makeup pretty well
-DOES NOT DRY OUT FACE
-leaves skin feeling plump, moisturized and incredible smooth
-improved the texture of my skin
-leave my skin looking glowy and polished
-multi purpose, cleansing and removing makeup!

The Cons
-will sting eye if you use if you're not careful

minor florally scent, i personally like it.

Recommended For
-all skin type, this product is VERY gentle i'd say

Repurchase?:ABSOLUTELY! i'm HOOKED on this product. The past few days, my complexion has been amazing and i've been wondering what it was, and i've finally realized it was because this cleanser! I LOVE LOVE LOVE it. AND URGE you all to TRY IT!




My Experience

You all know, i love foam cleansers. This product comes out as a pink cream, with tiny micro beads for minor exfoliation. You would need approximately a bit more then a pea size for the entire face. I would massage this all over my face, until the mirco beads dissolves and turn into foam. I would then continue to massage in circular motion for approximately one minute and then rinse it off. Instantely, you should feel how soft your skin has become, and how wonderfully polished & moisturized it is. The effect last for days & the best part is, it doesn't dry out my skin at all! I love using it at night and waking up with wonderful skin. With constant usage, my complexion is awesome everyday!

As for removing makeup, this product does pretty good removing face products like foundation. I had literally 6 pounds of foundation on my face for a photoshoot and this product removed it all, PLUS the dark heavy eyeshadow and MAC Fluid in black track! However, it does sting the eyes if you used this to remove eye makeup. I just close my eyes tight to ensure that, that won't happen. You may still need to use eye makeup remover for waterproof makeup. I do not use waterproof makeup, so i'm not sure.

This cleanser is completely different from all the cleansers that i've tried, and i'm completely in love with it. It cleanse, it removes makeup and it also lightly exfoliate! 3 in 1. I LOVE how soft, moisturized, polished and plump it makes my skin feels. The best part is it doesn't dry out my skin. I have tried so many cleansers, and many of them have dried out my skin, even after claiming how gentle it is. If you were looking to try something from laneige, this is a product i REALLY recommend.



Readers Discretion: Althought i sound insanely happy about these products, i am by no means affilated with the company or recieving any benenfit. My reviews are my honest opinion and products are purchased by myself.

Overall, i hoped this review helped you guys out! Thanks for reading

Philosophy Hope in a Jar Moisturizer

Philosophy: Hope in a Jar
for dry, sensitive skin
Philosophy: you can't change the weather, but you can change your moisturizer



Claims: hope in a jar for dry or sensitive skin is a treatment moisturizer that soothes and comforts even the more irritated or sensitive skin. hope in a jar for dry, sensitive skin help relieve dryness and helps improve the natural moisture balance, soothing and comforting the skin. due to its immediate comfort and moisturizing benefits even the most traumatized skin or thin, dry skin benefits from this antioxidant-rich treatment cream.

Properties:
Amount: 1oz - 38.4 g
Bottle: Jar type
Texture: thick, white, cream
Scent: medicated and personally unpleasant

Price: $36.00 CAD & $24.99 Sale @ Winners
Ingredients: water (aqua), glycerin, oryza sativa (rice) bran oil, c12-15 alkyl benzoate, glyceryl stearate, peg-100 stearate, octyldodecanol, cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol, lecithin, tocopheryl acetate, retinyl palmitate, arachidyl propionate, ethyl linoleate, ethyl linolenate, citric acid, lavandula angustifolia (lavender) oil, salvia officinalis (sage) oil, triethanolamine, diazolidinyl urea, phenoxyethanol, methylparaben, propylparaben.
How to Use: apply to a clean, dry, face. product will absorb instantly. do not re-apply. discontinue use if irritation occurs. avoid contact with eyes.

The Pros
-thick and creamy, suitable for dry skin in the winter
-provides adequate moisture

The Cons
-personally, the scent is unpleasant
-leaves a greasy shine, that feels sticky
-unhygienic and inconvenient in a jar form
-takes a while to absorb into the skin

Recommended For
-those with dry skin & looking for a winter moisturizer
-people who don't mind the scent
-those who don't mind the shine left behind
-those who like thick, creamy moisturizers that you can feel

Stay Away if
-you have oily skin, this would only make it more oily
-if you intend to wear this alone, because it leaves a greasy shine. You can always use a powder to eliminate this problem, but if you were to use this alone, i personally wouldn't recommend it.

Repurchase?: No. The reason i chose this moisturizer in the first place, was because i caught it on sale, and it claimed to be suitable for dry skin, but i personally hate the greasy, shine that it leaves. The scent bothers me, and it did little for my dry patches during the winter. I've also mistaken it for the original Hope in a Jar moisturizer that have been raved. They are definitely not the same thing!

My Experience: During the winter, my skin needs a thick creamy moisturizers, because my cheeks often get dry patches. I've used this product for probably a good 6 months now

here's a snapshot of how the cream looks. excuse the fingernail, i painted my nails sky blue ^.^


What i do love about this moisturizer is that it did help with some of the mild dryness i've expereience near the jawline and lower cheeks. It also aid in the dry patches, however, did not get rid of them. When i'm refering to dry patches, i'm talking about dried skin that is flaking & slightly pink.

it takes a while to blend in


The drawback of this product is that it's simply not suitable for me. This moisturizer leaves my skin greasy, and shiny. When i feel my face, it feels a little sticky. Personally, i perfer thick creams in the winter, but with a matte finish.

Overall: I liked this cream, because it was thick, and it did help a bit with my dry skin, but i'm disappointed in the "finish" of the product. On the side note, the thick sticky finish made a really good base for my foundation in the winter, because my foundation was slightly dry, so they were a good balance. I compromised by using foundation and a little bit of powder to offset the shine. I would NOT wear this moisturizer on it's own though.

P.S. You may be wondering why i would do a review on a product i do not recommend. I don't recommend this product, because it doesn't meet my perference. I feel a negative review is just as important as a positive review. It'd help you know what to you steer clear of. PLUS, what may not work for me, may end up working for you.

Right now, i'm actually testing out the HOPE in a JAR original Formula sold at Sephora, I'll update on that one when i get a chance! I've heard LOTS of good things about it.

Shiseido White Lucent Moisturizer Review

Hi all! ~ and welcome new followers!

If you have been following my blog since forever, you may have remembered that I've reviewed this product before. However, i felt the need to re-review this product, as my previous review wasn't adequate and sadly poorly written. It was one of my first blog posts when i have just joined the blogging community so i was quite unfamiliar with everything. I'm also re-reviewing this product, because recently I've been asked by friends about what moisturizer I've used and would recommend, hence, i think i would be updating more about skincare products from now on. Trust me, I've used TONS to battle against ACNE!

So without further a-dooo...(I've always wanted to use that word! hehe)


Shiseido White Lucent - Brightening Protective Moisturizer - SPF 16




Claims: A daytime moisturizer that provides exceptional whitening benefit and protection to the skin as it contains sunscreen agents which prevent the skin from the damages of UVA and UVB. This light weight moisturizer contains reflecting molecules that brighten the skin tone instantly and create a translucent barrier on the skin which helps the foundation staying on so the moisturizer can also be used as makeup base.

Properties:

Amount: 75 ML
Sun Protection: SPF 16
Texture: Lotion; yellow
Scent: gentle, pleasant, sweet
Bottle: without a pump

Ingredients: Octinoxate 7.4% W/W, Avobenzone 2.0% W/W
Price: $80 CAD (roughly - i can not find this on the shiseido site anymore)
How to Use: Smooth over face prior to sun exposure and after using cleanser and softener in the morning

The Pros

-instantly brightens the skin temporarily
-light weighted and non greasy
-quickly absorbs into the skin
-smells pleasant
-covers pores **

The Cons
-provides minimal moisturizing
-unhygienic = does not have a pump
-minimal sun protection
-brightening effect does not last and will not permanent change complexion
-expensive

Recommended For:

- looking to instantly brighten your complexion
- those with oily
- those who do not have dry skin, and are looking for minimal moisturizing
- suitable for summer and hot weather

Repurchase: only in the cream form, definitely not in the lotion form as it is not suitable for my skin type.

My Experience

I've had this moisturizer for approximately over a year now, and i should be finished with it this summer. This product would last for a good 6 months, if you use it faithfully, however, I did not use this product during the winter, so i have 1/3 of the amount remaining.

What i love about this product is that it does what it claims. It truly brightens my face instantly, without leaving a greasy shine and a more even out complexion. I'm quite fond to the scent as well. This light weighted LOTION is great for the hot summer days, as it's not cream based, rather liquidity and will provide minimal moisture. I did not realize this, as i tried to use this product during the winter, and it did nothing for my dry skin and has only emphasized my dry patches! HOWEVER, there is a cream form of this product, that I may have to look into as it'd be more suitable for the dry, cold weather.



The surprising thing about this product is that it hide my pores! i have black head on my nose, and i think the brightening effect really camouflage my blackheads and leave my skin looking pore less. It's pretty incredible, and definitely one of the biggest PROS of this product for me.

i don't want to blind anyone with my pores, so click on the link if you're interested. i know a lot of people suffer from pore problems, so i thought I'd share my secret. Goes to show, my skin is no where near perfect!Click to View

The biggest drawback about this product is the price. This must be the most expensive moisturizer that I've used, and although i do love it, i am uncertain about repurchasing this product. It also does not gradually change your complexion, and the brightening effect is only visible when you apply the product. The other big drawback about this product is that it doesn't come with a pump! I can't believe a product like this does not have one! It's just unsanitary, and inconvenient!

The strange thing about this product is that when I rub my face, a thin layer of the product would come off. I think that the "concentration" that creates the brightening effect does not get absorbed by the skin, rather only stays on the surface. Hence, the brightening effect is only temporary. However, this is my guess entirely, so don't take my word for it. It does not bother me though. I thought I'd just share that fact.

Overall, I do like this product. I love this product for all the pros that I've already pointed out, but i only wish it was a bit more moisturizing. Therefore I will most likely check out the cream-form of this product when i finish with this one.

leaving you guys with a photo almost a year back, where i have the moisturizer on, with Smooth Verge Mineralizer



Note: always check with the Sales Associate if you can get a sample of the product before purchasing!

I hope this review was helpful for those who are on a hunt for the perfect moisturizer. Feel free to leave a comment on my review structure. I'd love to hear from y'all. Take care <3

Watson: Bird's Nest Mask

Hello my lovelies!

Today, i want to tell you about this wonderful mask that my friend gave me. She is actually from China, and goes to school here in Canada. She brought boxes of mask with her, and have generously offered me one to try, and i'm sold.

I've seen actress use masks in those chinese drama, but never thought twice about it. I dont know why i felt the urge to try it one day, so i ofcourse asked my chinese friends.

This is the one that i got to try out:

Watson's Bird Nest Mask

(Watson is the name of the store- my friend described it as the "asian sephora")

Mask Sheets: Are like linen sheets(that are very soft and comfortable) cut to fit your face. They are soaked in a "solution" that's design to penetrate into your skin and give you all that good stuff it claims.




I can't read the back, bcos it's in chinese, so i just googled it, and this is what it says:

What it claims: "For centuries, bird’s nest has been recognized as one of the most valuable beauty supplement. With its nourishing power, Watsons Bird’s Nest Facial Mask leaves your skin silky smooth, with natural radiance."

Benefits:
1. Maintain skins youth glow and fairness
2. Energizes skin to enhance natural resilience and preserve vitality of skin

Amount: 30 ML (that's A LOT!)

Direction:
1. gentle place mask over your cleansed face
2. Leave for 15-20 mins and then remove
3. Gently massage any remaining fluid into your skin
4. No need to rinse
5. Discard mask after use
6. Use 2-3 times per week for best results

Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Algae Extract, Aloe Bergael, Butylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, Witch Hazel Extract, Extensin N-200, Trehalose, Natrosol 250, Phenoxyethanol, Caffeine, Methylpareben, Sodium Hyaluronate, Pearl Extract, Bird's Nest Extract, Allantoin, Dispotassium Glycyrihizate, Disodium EDTA, Birdnest HB45328

Caution:
Avoid contact with eyes. Rinse immediately with water if it comes in contact.
Do not apply on burned or damaged skin
If irritation occurs, stop use and consult a doctor if necessary

Storage:
Store in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight

WHERE to Purchase: WATSON, if u live in China, Online (ie.Ebay) if you live else where.

PRICE: I'm not exactly sure. The last time i checked on ebay, one seller sold ONE for 2.50. A box of 6pcs, is around $12-15 from what i've seen online.

How it looks like

this is how it looks like after opening. As you can see there is plenty of the jel-like solution. The sheet was completely drenched. it's neatly folded. A little tricky to open, but the sheet seemed sturdy, so it didn't rip or anything. There is also another layer on the mask, which you later remove after placing the mask on your face. it was so wet and slipperY!



now i might kill myself for posting this online, but today i feel brave. Hence, i hope this doesn't scare you too much..

BEWARE

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you end up looking freaky like this. hehehe. I"d hate to imagine myself bald. Hhahaha
............YEAH, i have no clue what to do with that dangling piece underneath the eye. so i just folded it like such



If you want to get a little more fancy, cut some cucumbers and place them on your eye. Lay down and enjoy some nice music. I had the mask on for about an hour. It was still very wet after 20 minutes, so i figured there wouldn't be any harm to keep it on, while i was on the phone. It completely dried in a hour btw. SO this BABY is SOAKED UP GOOD. :D

The Pros 1. SIGNIFICANTLY reduced/eliminated the dry spots that were flaking on my cheeks 2. my skin felt super moisturized, soft and plumped 3. the sheet is durable and thicker then i imaged ( i don't expect it will tear) 4. the sheet fits my face pretty well, might be big for people with smaller face 5. the sheet is DRENCHED in the essence!( It takes prob an hour to completely dry) 6. cooling sensation 8. Convenient 9. the red patches on my face has lessen and my skin tone looked a lot more even The Cons 1. Left this weird slightly sticky residue (didn't really bother me though) 2. Slight burning sensation during the first 5ish minute 3. does not whiten (at least not noticeable to me) 4. Softening effect last prob 24 hours. But face remains hydrated for about 2-3 days for me (but has got ridden of the dry patches!) 5. rather pricey for people who don't live in asian countries (12+ for 6pc) 6. not easily accessible and difficult to find for me On the Side: the smell was..okay? bf said it smells like wet naps. hehe

My Experience

The first thing i should make clear is: If you're looking for something that would dramatically whiten your skintone, this is not it. In fact, i'm not sure if i even see a difference afterwards.

Now that i have made that clear, i do have to say that if you have DRY, FLAKY skin, this thing would be your BESTEST FRIEND. I SWEAR, no cream/ moisturizer, can ever deliver this kind of result in an hour & less . I have been suffering from super dried out skin in random areas on my face. I believe it's due the dry, harsh weather, and all the crap i've been over stressing my skin with. I truly regretted it, and it was so hard to get my face moisted again.

It's a pain because when i go to apply foundation, or powder. NO MATTER how thick of a moisturizer i use, or wonderfully i blended it in, my skin looks cakey and just GROSS WITH foundation. Which goes to say, if your skin is moisturized and soft it really makes a difference when you apply make up

I LOVE this facial mask for that reason. I know that MANY facial sheet mask from asia are wonderful at moisturizing skin as well. This is the only one that i've tried, and i LOVE IT Words can't explain how much i love it.

Would i recommend?

DEFINATELY! It's a great to treat yourself, when you're overworked and stressed! i was super excited to tell everyone about this. I've already ordered a box of different masks to try out. i'm just dying to get my package now. I will definitely update on more MASKS in the future. My next order should be here in 2 weeks latest


If you are curious, i actually ordered a box of the My Beauty Diary Mask online. From all the research that i've done, they are one of the most popular one made in taiwan i believe.

Why DOES the packaging look SOO CUTEE??!



:D

HOPE You enjoyed! If you have any mask that you LOVE, please recommend me some.

THANKS for reading!

Aveeno Positively Radiant Makeup Remover Cleanser

Hello all my lovely bloggers!

I have been slacking. I had this review typed up a while back, but never go around to finishing it. So, since i seem to be having quite a bit of time on my hand atm,i thought i'd catch up on some product reviews!

I was looking for a makeup remover, since i've ran out of the lancome bifical one (WHICH I LOVE) but thought i should see what else is around before going back to it. the Lancome is rather pricy..HMmm, and makeup remover is something i use almost everyday!

SO i was at rexall ( a Canadian drug store ) and decided to give aveeno a try. I know that aveeno is known to be gentle and geared towards sensitive skin, so i thought it'd be suitable.

Aveeno Positively Radiant Makeup Remover Cleanser




Claim: "Gently dissolves makeup and impurities to leave your skin clean and refreshed without over-drying. This foaming cleanser, with moisture-rich Soy extract, leaves your skin soft, smooth and radiant. Oil-free, soap-free and noncomedogenic, this cleanser is gentle enough for everyday use, even on sensitive skin"

Price: 12ish bucks (sry, don't quite rem)

What i have to say about it: this cleanser has definitely impressed me, and i am currently hooked on it. I really love it, and i may have to repurchase

Quick jots:

THE PROS: -lather easily -gentle to use around and on the eye area -not as over drying (read on to know what i'm talking about) -does leave my skin radiant, clean and polished -my skin feels soft and smooth like silk -comes in a pump & good size -affordable -smells nice -skin does not feel "squeaky" (personal preference) THE CONS -only sufficiently removes makeup (will not remove All (but most) of your mascara/liner, and especially something "strong" as Mac Fluid Line in black track)

My experience:

i have been using it for a little about a month now, and i do really like this cleanser. I love the fact that its a foam, because i personally love foam cleansers. It makes cleansing feel effortlessly. It smells nice and i love how my skin does not feel dried out after i have used it. I have pretty sensitive skin, especially in the winter season, and it dries out very easily, but this cleanser is quite gentle. At the beginning it didn't dry my skin.

A shot of the product:
THIS is ONE full PUMP (i usually use 3/4 of a pump for entire face)




However, i don't know if it's my skin and all the other products i've been using, but recently this makeupremover made my skin experience a bit of drying after i use it, especially when i use it more than once a day. Though, I think it might be the other exfoliating products i've been using in combination at the period. But overall, nothing a little moisturizing can't fix

When i finish, my skin feels so radiant and it feels like soft to touch. i couldn't stop touching my face the first few times i used it. Though the effect seems to decrease with repeatative usage? What really surprised and impressed me was that it's very gentle to use around the eye area.

Sometimes i refrain from rubbing the products by the eye area, because i'm afraid it will sting, but this cleanser was very eye-friendly. You don't need to use a lot of pressure, just gentle circular motion is enough to get it going. It removed all of my eyeshadow, but not all of the mascara. It did well in removing most of my foundation.

Overall:

i'm use to using a eye makeup remover like the Lancome bifical eye makeup remover before i cleanse. So this isn't a big problem with me. I actually didn't expect it to remove any of my eye makeup at all, but it did very well with removing my eyeshadow and liner. Though, you will still see traces of your mascara with this product.

Recommendation:

i would recommend this for people who wear minimal makeup. It does a decent job in removing make up. Or if you don't mind cleansing your face in two step, you might like this product. If you are looking for a one-step cleanser that removes everything (especially heavy, long lasting, water proof make up), this might not be it

Last words: i like this cleanser, it's one of the best drugstore cleanser, that i have tried, and i was very surprised and impressed. Other than the fact that my skin feels a little dried out after using it recently i would probably repurchase.

Compared to the last foam cleanser that i have used, Estee Lauder Combination Skin , this one is a lot thinner in consistency, but Aveeno beats it hands down, with how beautiful it makes my skin glow after using. The best part is that it's affordable. I usually go through my cleansers very fast (used 2x a day) so price is pretty key.

How Good is your Cleanser?

Cleansing is one of the easiest thing you can do to achieve and maintain beautiful skin, and it's almost essential when you wear any face product, such as foundation, powder, concealer, blush..etc. I have learned this the hard way, and now i have incorporated this simple step into my skin regime. Lets just say that i can no longer go to bed, realizing that i have make up on my face.

Pupose of Cleansing

Because the skin on our face is unlike any other area on our body, our skin need a little extra care. Other then besides the fact that it's about self esteem and confidence for women and men, it's also a hygene routine. Cleansing removes the debris that has accumulated on our face throughout the day, as well as excess oil that could led to future break out. When you wear make up, you are exposing your face with products that are not necessary and it makes it even more important to remove the make up at the end of the day. Why? People often associate make up with the process of aging. Though i don't think there is scientific facts that makeup correlates directly to premature aging, i can say that if you do not properly and consistently remove all the make up at the end of the day before you go to bed, you are endangering and increasing the likelihood of premature aging. The way you apply your make up, like tugging can contribute to premature wrinkles, so make up itself may not directly case aging of skin, but the maintain make up will. I truly live by this, and i encourage everyone to consider it. Your skin will thank you later, and you can avoid the need to seek a cure for your aging skin.( atleast for a few years) Prevent now, not cure later.

What do you look for in a Cleanser?

Here is what i perfer:

1.cleansers that do not leave me skin feeling tight
2.skin feels moisturized not dried out
3.skin feels clean, but not squeeky
4.gentle and non-alcoholic
5.i'm really starting to like the foam type of cleanser, it's very easy and apply to the face. Less effort is needed in applying and spreading the product across the face
6.i perfer them in a pump, i don't like to squeeze the product, it makes it easier
7.removes most if not all, makeup like foundation, concealer, powder..etc. (eye makeup doesn't count- there is eye makeup remover for that!)

So now that i have gave a little introduction on cleanser, and the importance of cleansing, let me show and tell what i've been using for the pass two weeks

Estee Lauder: Perfectly Clean - Splash Away Foaming Cleanser



Type: Normal/Combination Skin
Price: $19.00 CAD before tax
Quantity: 4.2 oz

I did not purchase this. My mom bought a set a few weeks ago, because she wanted to get a moisturizer from there and lucky her, they have the exact mositurizer she wants in a set, with other products from the line, so she just got the set, because it was more of a bang for the buck. So this cleanser came with the set, and i have been using it to test it out. It came in a baby size.

Inital Review on the Product

So this cleanser has made me fall in love with foam cleansing. it's just so easy to apply on the face, and you can easily massage it into the face, without having to use much force like with creamier moisturizers. i rub it into my face in circular motion, and then i splash it off with water

It leaves my skin squeeky clean. i like the fact that it completely removes the oil, but at the same time it also feels tight and almost drying. I really wanted to like this product, but i'm just not feeling it. I think it depends on personal perference, i perfer cleansers to leave me with a clean feeling, but doesn't make my face feels tight, bcos it's just uncomfortable. I don't really like the squeekiness either. What i mean is when you rub your face, its so clean that when you rub your face there is a lot of friction. i feel like i definately need to moisturize after i use this product. For the most part, i don't really put on moisturizer when i go to bed, i do in the morning, but not when i go to bed, unless my skin feels very dried out.

After using this product. my face does seem to slightly glow. It doesn't leave any residue at all!

This product smells nice. I think it smells sweet but it also reminds me of some flower.

i only need a pea size and it's enough for my entire face, because it's foamy. i like how it looks creamy when you put it on your faces, and when you apply it, it turns into foam.



How well does it remove make up?

So let's move onto the main point of this topic. most of us would think that, when you use a cleanser that makes yuo feel like you removed every single little thing off your face that it's a good cleanser, but that's not always the case. Why?? because you can't micro-socopically see it. So what do we want to do to know that your cleanser is doing it's job?

Test the efficency of your Cleanser

You can test how well your cleanser is at cleansing. How? the answer baby, is with a toner. We always hear the saying "cleanse, tone, and moisturize" but i belive that if you have a good cleanser, you don't need to tone. Tonning is just an extra step to ensure that you remove the excess that your cleanser could not have done.

The experiment

So this is what i did. In the morning before class i applied foundation, blush, and my other makeup routine. At the end of the day, i used the Estee Lauder cleanser to wash my face, before i went to bed. Because i wore eye make up, i also used make up remover to clean my face, but i can't use the cleanser to clean my eye makeup, (it might sting my eye) so after that i have a habit of also tonning, just because i have toners that i have previously purchased and now just trying to finish it off.

This is what i used in this experiment:




And this is what i saw later...


I used Clinique Toner ( that one that comes with their acne sets) to tone my face, with a cotton ball, and i saw some of the foundation that the cleanser did not remove. I was so surprised because the cleanser made my face feel and look so clean, but apparently it's not as clean as i thought it was. So i just so amazed. Maybe you guys could think about it the next time you wash your face. Think twice before you buy the same cleanser again, because maybe it's not doing that much of a good as you thought it was. So you might think that the cleanser might not have even removed everything, but it has definately removed more then your cleanser.

Let me just say that, the cleanser did not say that it removes make up, but as a cleanser itself. i think it should be able to remove make up. Maybe not mascara, but a decent cleanser should remove foundation and powder, along with oil..etc.

Overall, i would probably not purchae the full size product. I believe there is better products out there for myself. The product says for oil and combination skin, and i have combination skin, but i just feel it's a little over drying, and i dont like how it makes my face feels squeeky clean. It's not perferd during this cold, dry weather season. I want a clean face, without the squeekiness, if you know what i mean. i would recommend it, if you do perfer it that way though. I will look for a cleanser that would do a better job at removing my face make up.


Rating:
Quality : 2.5/5
Price: 2/5
Purcahse again?: no

i hope you have enjoyed reading this post. I've jsut been so addicted about taking care of my face, that i've learned and read quite a lot of things, and this is just what i thought i'd share. if there is anything that i've said that is wrong, let me knoww!

A lesson on Department Store Shopping

I have been on a search for skincare products lately, because my skin has been quite dry, and i have been using products to get rid of some clogged pores that i have. So on my hunt, i have been browsing around in Sears/ The Bay cosmetics counters, and i have learned quite a few things that i thought i'd share with you guys.

On November 1, i bussed to masionville mall, ( a short distance) from my school, during my 3 hour break. I was on a hunt for a present for my bf's mom's bday, which was the next day. I could have gotten it earlier, but let's just say that i didn't know what to get her, and bf was not much of a help. He didn't know too much about what his mom wants, or what she needs, or what she uses, but let's just say this is a women that doesn't really need anything in particular. So i decided that night that, any present is better than nothing. Afterall, it's the thought that counts correct?

So when i got into the Bay, i was looking at perfumes and what not, but then i didn't want to get her perfume because she recently got alot, so my gift won't be too special, so i decided to pass on that. (plus she has a big collection of it) Since i was in the area i decided to look around for stuff for myself. I have been looking for an eyecream, because it's winter, and i want the area around my skin to be hydrated, since i do wear concealer. I alsoo wanted an eye cream with antiaging/prevention properties as well. I know, you must be thinking...Anh, you're too younge to be thinking of using these products, but trust me. I'll explain in another post.

So i happen to walk by dior, and i have never really looked into Dior products, so i decided to take a look. They had two type of eye cream. One in a tube, that is suppose to be for puffy eyes, dark circles, and carried some antiaging properties. I was initallly interested in that product and asked the sales associate some questions about it and how it works.

DIOR Capture Totale


Basically, as the girl there explained it to me, you apply this product in a patting form that will stimulate the area around your eye, which helps "breakdown" or get rid of the dark circles. Remember dark circles are basically just the effect of your capillaries (small blood vessels) that have leaked ( a normal thing) and because they are blue/purple, it's visible under the thin layer of the skin around your eyes. ( that is just a rough outline of what i have read during my research a while back on dark undereye circle, so if your interested just google it. *REMEM- there is more than just one reason for under eye circle). So basically i was quite interested in this product, but it did remind of another product out on the market with the same concept.

Garnier Skin Renew.



The concept is the same, both the tip where you apply the product from, is a metal piece, which would be cold when you apply it. I really don't see how that metal piece would do any benefit. To be honest, it reminds me of the method of putting a cold metal spoon on yours eyes when you want to depuff them. If you don't know about this method, basically you take a metal spoon, put it in the freezer/fridge for a few minutes, (enough for it to be cold, not frozen) then take it out and place the bottom part of the spoon on your eyes, and this will help to de-puff it. So when i thought of that, i don't know why i should spend that kind of money of something with a cheaper alternative. But ANYWAS- so i still asked her for a sample, btu she said she didn' thave a sample for that product, because it's special based on the way it's designed, so there is no sample she can give me, BUT she does have another eye cream that less of an antiaging one, that she does have a sample for.

It's this product:

HydrAction Visible Defense Eye cream with 20 SPF



------------ A Review --------------

She gave me two sample package for this product, and so far im liking it. She said this would be a girls "first eye cream". It's not heavily directed towards anti-aging, but it's more of a moisturizer for the eyes. I have been using this product for a week now, and i do like it. I can't say that i love it. The texture of this cream is thick, (which i like, because of this cold,dry weather) and it applies on smoothly, but it leaves a shine. I was looking for a product that has thick consistency, but a matte finish, but this one leaves me with a shine. You actually have to be careful about applying too much, because then it just looks a bit greasy. (But it doesn't feel oil or greasy at all, STRANGE!) So i don't realy like that about this product. I don't like the fact that it's in a jar, i much perfer a tube, or a pushy, it's just much more santitary, but thats personal preference. On the good side, it has been keeping my eyes hydrated, (I use it before i got to bed sometimes, and i feel greats when i wake up) AND it also has SPF 20. I really like the fact that it has sunprotection, because you know the world we live in today. The sun has a to do with how your skin looks, unless you have crazy good genes, and it's always GOOD to prevent now, then suffer from it later, a line jacked from Michelle Pham. It is a rather pricey product, so i'm not sure if i would actually go out to purchase this product. I kind of wanted a product with some anti-aging properties in it. I don't mean like those intense ones, just ones that will prevent and what not. But anywas, this product is okay. I think i would continue to search the market to see what else is out there.

Price is 47.00 Quite expensive, but that's expected from Dior. I have never used, or read about their skincare products, so i don't know what to think of it. Keep in mind tho, eye creams are usually as expensive at mositurizers, even when they come in smaller jars/tubes.

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So on my hunt, i went into the bay, and decided to grab something from Lancome, since i DO know that she uses that product line. The girl that was working there was quite nice, she explained to me most of the products and i told her my situation, and she reccomended an antiaging eye cream, or a moisturizer. But i felt werid getting her something for anti-aging, because she might think i'm trying to say that she's old or something, so i felt akward. I ended up getting these:

Milk Cleanser



Lancome Tonique Confort - Comforting Rehydrating Toner .

thought the toner looks so pretty because it's pink, i just had to get it also. I thought it was a cute gift, i almost wanted it for myself.



Prior to purchasing i asked if Lancome had any promotions, or gift with their purchases at the moment. The girl said no, but she still does have the gifts sets remaining from a promotion that they had a few days ago, and she offered to throw them into the purchase. I asked her what comes in the gift, and she started popping out all these products, 2 Lipsticks, 2 Mascara, Toner, Eyemakup Remover, Eyeshadow Quad, Primer, two makeup bags and a whole bunch of stuff that i can't recall at the moment. She told me that i only get to chose 5 iteems, but she said she can throw in one of each for me if she i liked. Ahhh, it was so amazing. hahaha. So i obviously was super happy.

I'm sad that i forgot to take a picture of my purchase, because it looked so cute.
But basically, i kept the sample toner, and the sample makeupremover, and gave his mom everything else since i figure i did get her a toner, and she has a cleanser, so she didn' thave much use for the other two (plus i did want to try it) so i kept them for myself. Teehee. BF agreed :D. They came in miniture verison it's SOOO CUTE!

Lancome Toner - Alcohol Free

I thought it was alcoholic at first, but guess not
i didn't use this one yet, because i've been using another toner, so no review on this.



Lancome BiFacil- MakeupRemover- claims to remove all mascara.



------------ A Review --------------

When you see this product you can see two visible layer, and one being of an oil. You need to shake it up and use a cotton ball to apply it. I'm stil not sure if you wash this away or not, but i do. I apply it to the cotton ball, and swipe it across my eyes, and this thing is pretty amazing. It gets rid of everything, and it's GENTLE. It does not sting my eyes at all, especially when i swipe it right across my eyes, and near my lash line. It doesn't irriate, and it removes the make up without making me have to tug my skin ( A BONUS ). When you look at the cotton ball, it's blue and black, i thought it's funny. haha. I guess it's the chemical reaction of the cleanser and the makeup?? i don't know. So then after wipping away all the makeup, i splash my face with water, and dry it with a towel. If there was excess mascara remaining, the towel will take it away with a swipe, because the forumla is oil based. I like the idea that it's oil based, but i also don't. The reason being is that when i splash my face with water, the area feels oil and it looks oil, UNTIl i wipe it with a towel. I thought that was a little strange, i guess it just takes a little getting use to. I do like the fact that is' oil tho, because it makes removing the makeup so easy and effective. ( OIL IS great for removing makeup - i use to use bio oil allthe time to remover make up ) The oil also makes the area around my skin feel more hydrated. I'm not sure if it's the effect of the makeupremover, or if it's the other products i've been using in combination, but my skin has been feeling great these days. This product, at full price is 34.00. The price is OKay. I mean i can tell already that it would last a good year or so, by the looks of it, but i'm just not sure if i'm liking how it's oil. We'll see how it goes.

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So that is the end of my shopping experience. At the end of the day i've learned a few things about shopping over these counters.

1. Never Hesitate to ask for Samples : I'm sure they have a shitload of them, that they don't mind giving away, you just have to ask about them. Show that you are interested in the product but would like to try a sample before purcahsing. It's awesome, because you can try it out and then buy it if you love it.

2. Ask about Promotions, when they have it, or when it will start. The worst thing is purchasing something and then realizing the next day that there is a promote for that. When i was at the Bay, at Whiteoaks, the girl told me last minute that there was actually a gift set with the purcahse from Elizabeth Arden, on $50+ purchases starting tomorrow, and asked if i wanted to hold off until the next day to purchase it and get the free stuff. She was KIND enough to tell me that, else i think i would've just bought it and never know. So you should ask, cause who doesn't want free stuff right? PLUS, these products are costly, to make the most of of your purcahse.

3. Return a Purchase for a Gift Set When you did purchase a product and then find out that there is a gift set from the line a few days over, you can actually return it and then repurchase it to get the gift. I actually didn't know about this, btu the sales associate there that told me about the gift the next day, told me that. So i thought i'd share. She told me that people DO ACTUALLY do that.

I hope you enjoyed this post. i had fun, haha. i didnt want to read stats, so i decided i do another blog post, before i start forgetting everything. The midterm horror is returning, so i would be gone for a while again. SIGH* just one more month guys, and it's christmas break :) that's the only thing that's keeping me going