Christmas Wishlist - 2016

My Christmas Wishlist grows shorter by the year and I think this year's list is the shortest. Yes, that darn Chanel bronzer is still on my list and will remain there until I get it. The only reason why I haven't gotten around to purchasing it is because I'm trying to finish up my NARS Laguna bronzer (which is total sh*t & overhyped, but that's another story for another time). BUT I am breaking my own rule. I can no longer stand to be apart from my most coveted makeup product. It's coming back home to mama this holiday!

The PTR Irish Moor Mud is a complete "wishful wishlist" item because it's ridiculously expensive for a 5 oz jar. So if any of you can find a similar mask that is way cheaper, please please (please?) let me know! I'm not a brand snob I swear!

I've always wanted to buy the Estee Lauder DayWear Sheer Tint Release because I actually hate putting foundation on. Really, it's just the worst. I've tried it on before and I freaking love it. It's perfect for weekends when I don't want to put makeup on, but still look like I showered put together.

I can't really think of any other reason to buy those Charlotte Tilbury lipsticks other than I like the packaging and I think they're great collector's items (who's not a sucker for gold packaging though??). I did wear Stoned Rose once, though, and it's probably one of the more perfect nude pinks that I've ever worn. I just want Very Victoria because it was inspired by Victoria Beckham and yes, I will forever be obsessed with Posh Spice so get off me.

And that's it for me this holiday season! I hope you all get what you want and enjoy your holidays with family, friends, food, pets, books, Netflix and whatever else makes you happy. All the love and kisses!

Innisfree It's Real Squeeze Mask - Rice

Price: $1.20
Claims: Moisturizing, brightening. Moisture level increases by 125% after use.
Key Ingredients: Grapefruit Extract, Rice Extract, Aloe, Sodium Hyaluronate, Green Tea

Best for: All skin types

What I liked: It was definitely moisturizing and soothing to my skin. The essence wasn't too thick and the fragrance was not too strong. I liked that it contains green tea because I think that's an ingredient my skin really likes. It's nothing special, but I definitely would not kick out of bed (or my mask drawer).

What I didn't like: Innisfree claim that it's brightening, but I didn't see anything in the ingredients list that was particularly for brightening the skin.

The Face Shop Real Nature Mask - Avocado

Price: $1.99
Claims: Improve skin's suppleness and elasticity
Key Ingredients: Avocado Extract, Alcohol Denat, Sodium Hyaluronate
Best for: Dry or Very Dry Skin

This review will be short because this mask was utter sh*t.

What I liked: The essence was very rich and creamy and the light fragrance was not bothersome.

What I didn't like: Even though Face Shop claims that this mask hydrates your skin, I actually had a different experience. My skin was really tight and dry after using the mask. It was really strange since I've never had that reaction, not even to masks that are targeted for acneic/oily skin. I thought it was odd that alcohol was listed as the 5th ingredient on the list since this mask is supposed to be for "hydration." I'm not a huge opponent to alcohol (the "bad" kind). I think as long as it's incorporated in small amounts, it's okay. However, I don't think it belongs in this particular mask. I definitely would not purchase again and will stick to It's Skin Avocado Sheet Mask.

NOTD feat. Revlon ColorStay Gel Envy Nail Enamel

Price: $5.59 (Target)

I haven't done a NOTD post in a while because I hardly ever paint my nails anymore. However, I loved these colors so much, I thought I'd share! In this photo, I am wearing the Revlon ColorStay Gel Envy nail polish in Jokers Wild and Lovestruck for the accent. I NEVER wear these colors because I'm all about that vamp life, but I wanted to do something a little different. I ended up really loving the blue polish and at the end wished I had switched the colors around, with Jokers Wild being the accent. My manicurist also used the Gel Envy Top Coat on me. I was impressed with both the polish and top coat. I experienced no chipping in the 7 days I had it on, which is pretty impressive for a regular nail polish. Although the name has the word "Gel" in it, it's not actually gel polish, at least not in texture. I removed the nail polish easily with regular nail polish remover. It definitely gives real gel polish a run for its money in terms of longevity. All in all, I'm impressed and willl most likely be purchasing Lovestruck for my own collection.

My Skincare Routines

No, that's not a typo. I really did mean to type routine with an S! I understand that everyone's skincare regime is different, but a lot of the times people just post a general routine. We all know that our routines change; our day routines aren't the same, step for step, as our night routines and they definitely aren't the same when we want to give our skin a little bit more TLC.

That's why I decided that I'd share with you all my daytime & nighttime skincare routines, as well as my routine when I want to give myself a mini facial. It's inspired by the famous Korean 10 Step Routine as well as what I've learned at my current job at the spa. I'll also share my thoughts about each step, as well as some product recommendations.

Before I begin, I'd like to just point out that I have combo/oily skin, that's particularly oily in the t-zone during the summer months. I am also prone to acne, especially hormonal acne. Although I work in a spa, I am not a skincare expert, nor will I ever claim to be. I am  merely sharing my experiences and what's worked for me. These routines aren't completely set in stone, but I do feel like I've got it almost figured out. And what I mean by this is that I now understand why the steps are in the order that they are and because of this I don't think my future routines will steer too far from what I'm currently doing.

So maybe, just maybe, this is my final skincare routine post ever. Maybe. It will definitely be the most comprehensive, so I hope you enjoy and learn a thing or two. Or three!

Daytime Simple Routine

1. Gel/Foam/Milk Cleanser
2. Toner
3. Essence
4. Eye Cream/Serum
Optional: Sheet Mask, for days when I need a little bit more hydration/moisture in my skin or just when I want that smooth, luxurious feel. Makes your foundation sit real nicely on the skin!
5. Serum(s)
6. Moisturizer
7. Sunscreen

I know you might be going, "That's simple?!" It really is. On most days, I use 1 serum. I'll do two if I am having a little trouble with hormonal acne. Right now for example, I am using a hydrating serum to keep my skin nice and soft and an acne serum w/ Mandelic Acid to treat my jawline and chin. I have read though that you should apply serums with active ingredients BEFORE a sheet mask if you are going to use them, so that they are able to penetrate the skin better. I haven't tried this method, but it makes sense.

My nighttime routine is pretty much the same. I do the double cleanse and I obviously cut out the last part, which is applying sunscreen.

Nighttime Simple Routine

1. Cleansing Balm/Oil
2. Gel/Foam/Milk Cleanser
3. Toner
4. Essence
5. Eye Cream/Serum
Optional: Sheet mask or rinse off mask.
6. Serum(s)
7. Moisturizer

Is it crazy that although I work at a spa and am able to get services for free, I hardly ever book facials or massages for myself? So instead of booking an appointment, I try to take on the task myself. About twice a week, I give myself a mini facial, that includes exfoliating and a mask. This particular routine is inspired heavily by both the Korean 10 Step Routine and the facials I've been getting the last 5 years.

Mini Facial Routine (in lieu of a simple Nighttime Routine) 

1. Cleansing Balm/Oil
2. Gel/Foam/Milk Cleanser
Optional: High Frequency Wand* to target stubborn pimples and blemishes
3. Exfoliating Cleanser (used with a "flannel" or muslin cloth) or Exfoliating Peel Pads (I prefer this method)
4. Toner
5. Essence
6. Eye Cream/Serum
7. Sheet Mask/Rinse Off Mask
8. Serum(s)
9. Moisturizer

See, even with my Mini Facial, I don't reach the ten steps! And I don't mean to step (hehe) on the 10-Step Routine, but it's really not necessary, especially for everyday. Nevertheless, I do think each step has its place and is important.

CLEANSING BALM/OIL
I'm fairly new to this step and only started incorporating it into my routine in the last 3-4 months. My first exposure to it was the Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser, when I received it as a sample from Birchbox years ago. I wasn't as skincare savvy back then so I had no idea what it was even meant for and ended up chucking the cleanser. However, since I've started researching more about the Korean Beauty scene, I realized that it's an essential part of the routine. I think it's definitely a step that you shouldn't miss as it does help dissolve all the makeup off your face (even waterproof mascara!) as well as lift any other dirt and impurities (ew, I hate that I'm even using that buzzword) out of your pores. The first real cleansing balm I tried was the Botanic Farm Grain Ferment Cleansing Sherbet, which was included in a Memebox K-Beauty sample kit. I loved it instantly because it didn't make my skin feel dry after rinsing. By using a balm or oil first, in my opinion, it allows the foam cleanser to go even deeper since it doesn't have to work through all the gunk on the top layer of the skin. I've recently finished a tub of the Banila Co. Clean It Zero Cleansing Balm and I highly recommend it for those who are just starting out.

GEL/FOAM/MILK CLEANSER
For me in particular, I like using gel cleansers with a pH that's a little more alkaline than acidic because I have oily skin. My favorite is the Pevonia Botanica Phyto-Gel Cleanser, which lathers up quite nicely, but isn't too drying. This step should be your final cleansing step (unless it's Exfoliation Night) so I'd suggest getting a cleanser that really gets all up in your business, your mama's business and your neighbor's business so you can be sure those pores are clean.

EXFOLIATION
Ahh exfoliation, my absolute favorite step. I am what they call an "enthusiastic exfoliator" (which I totally just made up). Nothing makes me feel more productive and satisfied than a good exfoliation. I do both manual and chemical exfoliation, though I'm quite partial to the latter as my skin fares better with this method. Manual exfoliation tends to make me oilier at times, so it's not something I do often. I will only employ this particular method when I don't have my peel pads at hand (my favorite is the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel) or my Dermaquest Peptide Glyco Cleanser. It really is a step you cannot skip on mini facial nights. Since I started using chemical exfoliators, I've noticed that my skin feels much smoother, less irritated and the amount of the tiny closed comedones that like to hang out around my temples have decreased significantly (I still have some, though I'm chalking it up to other internal health issues).

TONER
When I first started getting into skincare, I thought toner was the final step in cleansing. It's supposed to be the product that really gets deep down into the pores to really clean them out. And I thought that your skin was supposed to feel really tight and dehydrated after using toner. However, as I've become more well-informed and educated in skincare, I've learned that toner really should be the step to prepare your skin for all the products you're going to put on. From personal experience, it's the step that I often say is "the step that brings my skin's pH level back to where it needs to be." I really do feel that that's its intended purpose (at least the newer toners), especially after cleansing and exfoliating, which can kind of mess with our skin's acid mantle. I am currently using the Missha Super Aqua Pore Correcting Toner (now reformulated as the Super Aqua Pore-Kling Toner)  and the Innisfree Green Tea Balancing Skin. I switch between the two depending on my skin issues. I definitely like to use the Innisfree toner after exfoliating as it's more nourishing as opposed to the Missha toner, which is more for when I want counter balance my oiliness.

ESSENCE
To be completely honest, I'm not entirely sold on this essence business. I know that essences have a little bit more "umph" to them because they are more concentrated than serums. They also contain a lot more active ingredients and because it's a more watery consistency, your skin absorbs it much better. The one I'm currently using is the very popular Missha Time Revolution First Treatment Essence Mist. What I can tell you about this particular product is that it's very hydrating and my skin feels very plump after it's been completely absorbed. Most essences contain fermented ingredients, mostly to help with plumping and brightening up your complexion. I've definitely felt that plumping effect, however, it hasn't done much in brightening up my skin or getting rid of any scarring.

EYE CREAM/SERUM
If there's a step that a lot of people often neglect, I'd say this is one of them. I feel like this is a step that doesn't get enough attention on any front. I know we can't turn back the hands of time simply by applying eye cream or serum, but I think it's definitely important to help nourish that particular area of our face. The serum I'm currently using is the Wilma Schumann Eye Contour Revitalizing Serum.

SHEET MASKS & RINSE-OFF MASKS
I can almost guarantee this is everyone's favorite step. I always feel so relaxed when I have a mask on and I love that I can multi-task when it's on so I can get things done, especially in the mornings (like blow drying my hair or making my lunch!). Sheet masks are having their time right now and they are seriously popping up everywhere, even WalMart! I'm still quite partial to purchasing the ones at the Japanese stores I go to though. My favorite sheet masks are ones that contain green tea, honey, propolis, aloe and avocado. There's so many different companies that make them, it's hard to pick one favorite. I also use rinse off masks, which are great for days when you need extra help or your skin needs a little more hydration. My favorite rinse off mask is the Peter Thomas Roth Irish Moor Mud Mask. I'm acne prone and this helps dry out my zits a lot!

SERUMS
This is the step when I really buckle down and target my skin's specific needs. You can either go crazy here or keep it simple like I do. On most days, I will use 1 serum and it's mostly a hydrating serum of some sort. On days that my skin needs a little more help, like when I'm breaking out, I'll add another serum or treatment. But really, I like to keep it simple and not overstimulate my skin. My favorite serums are the Dermaquest C Infusion Serum, Essential B5 Hydrating and the Dermaclear Serum. I also like the iS Clinical Super Serum because it really helps with getting rid of scars, but because it is so potent, I use it sparingly.

MOISTURIZER & SUNSCREEN
This final step is probably the most crucial. Moisturizer locks all the moisture in (and I'd like to believe it also locks in all the product you put on) and sunscreen helps limit skin damage. As someone who has oily skin, I love gel moisturizers. It really keeps the oil at bay, while keeping my skin really hydrated. I'm currently using the Benton Aloe Propolis Soothing Gel. One of the best things about it is that it can double as a soothing mask. If my skin is particular fickle, I'll layer it on a little thicker than normal and leave it until it's completely absorbed then put sunscreen on top. Works like a charm every single time! Sunscreen, well that's a no-brainer. Put that shxt on or so help me!

*High Frequency Wand
I've put this on as an optional step because I don't think this is something that most people have. I'm fortunate enough that I have my own (thanks boss!). I use this to zap zits and help control my oil production. My recommendation is to get something similar to this, and making sure that it is ARGON gas (purple) that comes out if you are using it for acne. It also helps with skin tightening and boosting collagen production. If you are thinking of purchasing one for yourself, please read up on how to use it exactly. One important thing that I've learned is to never use it on skin where you've applied product containing alcohol. That's why I like to do this step just after cleansing and before exfoliating and toning.

Did you make it this far? Well if you did, bless your heart. Again, I just want to say that I am not a skincare expert and this post was just to share my experiences and thoughts on varying skincare routines and steps. My main goal with this blog is to reach out to my community of close friends and family and give them a little insight on things like skincare, makeup, etc. so treat this post as more of a stepping stone to the world of beauty! I hope that you have learned some things from reading this novel.

Leaders Insolution Anti-Aging Treatment Mask

Price: $2.50
Claims: Combats signs of aging by minimizing wrinkles while firming skin that has lost elasticity.
Key Ingredients: Sodium Hyaluronate (hydrating), Adenosine (boosts collagen & elastin production)
Best for: Signs of Aging, Malnourished Skin, Tired Skin

What I liked: This mask kept my skin hydrated throughout the day and added much-needed moisture. There was no weird scent it and it was easy to use. There was lots of essence left in the packet after I used the mask and I was able to use it on my neck and also my arms. I didn't have any allergic reactions and it made a great base for my makeup as it made my skin very smooth and even textured.

What I didn't like: I didn't notice any lifting effects or change in firmness of my skin. I would not purchase again as their Aquaringer sheet mask leaves the same effect that the Anti-Aging mask does.

July Makeup Favorites

1. Ardell Duo Brow Brush 

Price: $4.49 Regular ($3.99 w/ Sally's Beauty Club Card)
Best for: Brow powders

I originally bought this to keep at my boyfriend's place, but I accidentally took it home a few weeks ago and have kept it since. My brow routine and shape changes constantly and this brush is my favorite for my current routine, which is brow powder and brow pencil. I don't think it's good for the pomade brow products, but I think that's a personal preference. I prefer the MAC 263 for the pomades because it can create a thinner line, which is great for creating those hair-like strokes. Regardless, it's still a great brush for the price and it definitely gets extra points for having a spool at on the other end.


2. Giorgio Armani Black Ecstasy Mascara

Shade: Obsidian Black
Price: $32
Claims: Ultra-black, faultproof, all-in-one intensity mascara. Formula includes exclusive color-boosting polymer for most intense black
Best for: All lash lengths/volume

I'm a firm believer that drugstore mascaras are just as (and often times better) than high end ones, but there are a couple of exceptions. This and the Eyes To Kill Mascara are two of my all time favorites! The formula is good for keeping the curl and the brush does wonders for my short, fine, Asian lashes. It almost looks like I put falsies on. Would I buy this? Probably not, but I am grateful that my job allows me to get my hands on sample tubes.


3. WetNWild Ultimate Brow Kit
Shade: Ash Brown 963

Price: $3.99

Claims: All you need to create perfect brows.

Best for: All skintones, medium to dark hair.

This is once again making my favorites list. I leave this at my boyfriend's house because I already have 800 other brow products at home, but I accidentally took it back with me. This will always be one of my favorites because it was one of the first drugstore brow powders that contained neutral brown shades. And most importantly it costs less than $5. I don't use the wax because I've never liked that stuff, but the two powders are great. I also don't use the the mini brush and tweezers because they are virtually useless, but the built-in mirror on the bottom of the palette is a nice size. The packaging is a little flimsy so it would probably fall apart in your makeup bag if you were to take it with you daily. All things considered, I think it's great value for what you are getting. I think the two shades will look great on all skintones and medium to dark brown/black hair. The only thing I'm not sure on is how it would look on someone who has very blonde hair or redheads.


4. Sponge tip applicators
Price: Varies
Best for: Cream concealers, spot concealing.

I usually chuck these things, but I recently found another use for them, thanks to the Korean MUA Pony! In one tutorial she used a sponge applicator to spot conceal. It got me curious, so I decided to try it for myself. I highly recommend this method as I've found that it applies the concealer flawlessly and blends beautifully. But like I said, this is probably best for spot concealing small areas only and best for cream concealers, not liquid ones.

Dr. Morita Green Tea & Amino Essence Moisturizing Sheet Mask

Price: $1.99 (Beauteque)

Claims: Repair and fight against aging for more elastic, hydrated skin.
Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, Camellia Sinesis Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium Hyaluronate
Best for: All Skin Types

Today's mini review is on the Dr. Morita Green Tea & Amino Essence Moisturizing Facial Mask. I know I usually babble on about Korean beauty products, but today I'm going to be talking about a Taiwanese skincare product!

What I liked: Unlike most sheet masks, this particular one actually comes with the white plastic sheet so you know which side goes on your face. Not that this is a huge deal breaker, but sometimes with other masks, I have to spend some time trying up figure out which way the nose part folds so I can see which side is up. I've been obsessing over green tea products since I started using Innisfree Green Tea Balancing Skin line regularly because green tea seems to be an ingredient that my skin agrees with. This might be a mask that actually has longer lasting effects. Since I used it two days ago, my skin has felt smooth, soft and hydrated.

What I didn't like: I can't think of any!! Maybe my only complaint is that it's not something I can easily buy here in San Diego.

One thing that I am neutral about is whether or not this mask actually has any anti-aging benefits. The ingredient list also includes Lactic Acid, which is great for anti-aging, but how much of the essence actually contains this ingredient, I am not sure. It honestly can't be that much. I don't expect sheet masks to provide long term benefits for the skin, so it's not something I look for when reviewing any kind of masks.

Beauteque Sheet Mask Haul

In July, Beauteque relaunched their website and rebranded as the "mask marketplace" with a goal to provide skincare enthusiasts with a place to purchase affordable, high-quality masks. I had not heard much about Beauteque until recently when one of my new favorite YouTuber's TheBeautyBreakdown uploaded a video of herself unboxing her monthly Beauteque box subscription (aptly called Mask Maven).

Because I am a sheetmask hoarder, I decided I'd check place an order! Here is my entire order:

It's Skin Color Solution Green Mud Mask Sheet - $3.49 USD

Innisfree It's Real Squeeze Mask - Aloe $1.99 USD

Innisfree It's Real Squeeze Mask - Rice $1.99 USD (currently out of stock)

Innisfree It's Real Green Tea Mask Sheet $1.99 USD

Innisfree Skin Clinic Mask - BHA $3.80 USD

The Face Shop Real Nature Mask Sheet- Avocado $1.99 USD

Dr. Morita Green Tea & Amino Essence Moisturing Mask Sheet $1.99 USD
Hanaka Magic Garden Series - Marigold + Vitamin A $1.90 USD
Gold Cosmetic Bag - FREE!

Overall, I was very satisfied with their service. Order processing took a little longer than I expected, but I assumed that was due to the high volume of orders they were receiving at relaunch. I also appreciate the fact they included a free cosmetic bag with my order. I will definitely order from them again in the future!

NYX HD Blush - Double Dare

Product Name: NYX Cosmetics HD Blush
Shade: Double Dare
Size: 0.16oz
Price: $6.99 - Ulta

This orange blush looks frightening in the pan, but if applied lightly and blended properly, it looks great! I picked it up on a whim because the color intrigued me. I don't wear orange anything, not even clothing, so this was a little out of the norm for me. My favorite way to apply this blush is with the Real Techniques Blush Brush, and I place it quite high on the cheekbones, where my highlighter usually goes. I find this gives me a more youthful look when paired with a clean matte base, soft brows and minimal eye makeup.

I've read reviews about faulty and cheap packaging. Luckily, I haven't had any problems with mine, although between you and me, for $7, I don't have high expectations when it comes to the packaging. But that's just me.

Sephora Classic Mini Multitasker Brush #45.5

Price: $14.00
Suggested Use: Applying loose and mineral compact powders
Best For: Liquid foundation, powder foundation, loose and mineral powders
Material: Synthetic

I've had my eye on this brush for AGES and was finally able to purchase it a couple of months ago. It's meant for loose and mineral powder but it works really well with liquid foundation. It blends perfectly and leaves a natural finish. It's dense, but not too dense, so I think it works well with most formulations. I would not use this on anything too watery though, like the MAC Face & Body because it'll soak it up and just move the product around your face, but never truly buff it in. However, for anything thicker, it's perfect. It has become HG status for me and will probably purchase a couple more in the future!

Sephora Wonderful Cushion Matte Lip Cream

Product Name: Sephora Wonderful Cushion Matte Lip Cream
Shade: Wonderful Purple
Size: 9ml / 0.304 fluid oz
Price: $8.00


What I liked: The color and applicator! I like any lip color that's a berry sort of shade. I think it goes so well with my skin tone. The applicator isnt a true cushion, more like a sponge, but it still makes the product fun to apply. I also like that it a soft matte. Instead of the sharp edges and lines you get with liquid lipsticks, this one kind of just feathers at the edges, which I kind of prefer because it has a more youthful look.

What I didn't like: Well first, I think Sephora should've come out with better shades in general. This shade was the only one that I liked out of the four that were released. None of them are particularly wearable, in that they probably only look good on certain skin tones. They also should've formulated it better. Although it's pretty opaque, it transfers and never truly sets (kind of like the NYX Soft Matte Lip Creams). However, it does work really well as a stain. Although it's not that impressive formula-wise, I'm still gonna wear the heck out of it.

Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge

A photo posted by Nicole Jean (@nicole_ehmu) on May 12, 2016 at 11:53am PDT

A video posted by Nicole Jean (@nicole_ehmu) on May 12, 2016 at 11:47am PDT

About a month ago I purchased a BRAND NEW Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge after my old one, which I bought last year, finally gave out on me. I was very disappointed to find out that they had changed the material of which the sponges are made.

As I stated in the video above, they used to be comparable to the Beauty Blender but they now feel like any other generic sponge that is sold at drugstores and other shops. I am very disappointed in Real Techniques, not for changing the material, but for not addressing the change. I have done some Googling and have found that I am not the only person that is having the same problem. Perhaps, it is time to finally go back to using a Beauty Blender.

Charlotte Tilbury Makeover

I recently had the opportunity to get a mini-makeover at the Charlotte Tilbury counter at Nordstrom Fashion Valley. The reason for my visit was to get a sample of the new Magic Foundation. When I am able, I like to get color matched by a professional makeup artist so that I'm not standing around the counter like a bumbling idiot trying to see which shade looks best on me.

Luckily that day, my friend's girlfriend was working at the Charlotte Tilbury counter and did more than color match me. She asked me if I wanted her to do up my whole face and I'd have been idiot to say no. Tracy pulled out all the stops and began with skin prep. I was able to try to a handful of the skincare products, including the Magic Cream.

For my mini-makeover, I chose the Golden Goddess look. I was super dressed down and was going to Costco afterwards to go grocery shopping so I didn't want anything too heavy. On top of all the products in the Golden Goddess Kit, Tracy also used the highly coveted (and rightfully so) Filmstar Bronze & Glow sculpting palette on me. It's definitely earned a spot on my wishlist! I also was able to try on the very famous Lip Cheat in Pillowtalk. I've only ever swatched it on my hand once when I visited her shop at Covent Garden, but actually having it on your lips is totally different! I also loved that it paired so nicely with the K.I.S.S.I.N.G Lipstick in Stone Rose. Both have also earned spots on my wishlist.

I was really impressed with the Magic Foundation and decided to purchase one for myself. It is definitely full coverage and needs a primer, but it is so long lasting and hardly ever transfers when blotting. I wore it when I went to the Philippines, in the hot humid weather and it stayed on, without sliding or anything. It has a very moisturizing feel to it and the finish is demi-matte. I am honestly in shock and do think it's worth the $44. I've bought foundation more expensive than that and Magic Foundation has outperformed them. I would say it's comparable to Estee Lauder's Double Wear foundation except the Magic Foundation is probably more natural looking. 

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Foundation, close up.

Thank you again to Tracy for making me look like a Golden Goddess. I definitely felt like one! The Charlotte Tilbury Magic Foundation is available to purchase at Fashion Valley Nordstrom.

Pevonia LipRenew Plumping & De-Age Treatment

Working at a spa definitely has its perks. Last week, we received a couple samples of the new Pevonia LipRenew Plumping & De-Age Treatment. With all this Kylie Jenner lip craze still in full force, I think Pevonia launched this product at just the right time. Not everyone is keen on fillers, and I'm sure most of us probably can't afford it so a cream like LipRenew definitely has a place in the market.

Here is what Pevonia claims LipRenew will do: 

Instantly plumps, decreases lines and folds and lifts for fuller, sexier lips.It deeply moisturizes and repairs with a power-pout blend: Collagen, Hyaluronic Acid, Sesame Seed Extract, Shea Butter and Capsicum.

Ingredients:

Water (Aqua), Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Collagen, Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Cetearyl Glucoside, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil, Tocopherol (Vit. E), Pisum Sativum (Pea) Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hexylene Glycol, Capsicum Frutescens Fruit Extract.

This was probably one of the easiest trials I've ever done because I didn't have to wait weeks to see results. I literally waited about 10 minutes and was able to do a comparison right away. I started the process by cleaning my lips and then massaging a tiny amount of LipRenew. I used about half a peasized amount for this trial.

BEFORE APPLICATION

As you can see in my before picture, my lips aren't super thin. There are a few lines around my mouth, though I'm going to chalk that one up to dehydrated skin =P

Five minutes after application, my lips were very tingly, almost like they were on fire. Other than the tingling sensation, the other thing I noticed was the strong "body lotion" scent, which normally wouldn't bother me, but for a lip cream, it was a little bit weird. I was expecting something maybe more fruity, but it smelled so much like a body wash or body cream that it was a little off-putting.

TEN MINUTES AFTER APPLICATION

After 10 minutes, my lips reached maximum plumpness (that is a really ugly word, btw). How do I know this? Well, I took a picture of my lips an hour later and saw no real difference. The tingling subsided after an hour and a half and my lips felt very soft and moisturized. I think the cream blurred out some of the lines around my lips, though not by much. Judging from the picture, it definitely plumped up my bottom lip and the area just underneath my cupid's bow.

4 HOURS AFTER APPLICATION

At Hour 4, my bottom lip was still pretty plump, but it looked like my top lip had "deflated." However, my lips still felt very soft and moisturized. I didn't need to use chapstick or lip balm for the rest of the day and my lips were still soft the very next morning! 

LipRenew is a great quick-fix product that I would recommend to anyone interested in plumping up their lips without crazy chemicals or needles. Personally, I think the product works best if you exfoliate your lips prior to application. Also, if you want to apply lipstick or lip gloss afterwards, I would suggest waiting at least 10 minutes after application to do so.

Pevonia's LipRenew is available on their website for $55 for 0.5oz. 

My First Eyelash Extensions

So I've pretty much tried to stay away from eyelash extensions for the past couple of years, mainly because it was just going to become another expense for me, on top of getting my hair done, mani/pedis and facials. I'll be going to my cousin's wedding this Saturday and since I'm kind of part of the wedding (I'll be doing a reading), I thought I'd do something extra. I'm also getting my nails done, but that's for another post ;)

My apprehension with getting eyelash extensions also stems from a misconception that I had. I have always heard people say that extensions make your eyelashes fall off. Well, that is completely and totally wrong, I've learned. Your lashes fall off anyway, and although the individual hairs are attached to your actual eyelash, it doesn't pull or tug on the roots to make them fall off any quicker.

I was always under the impression that I had absolutely no eyelashes, but after seeing my before picture, I was kind of relieved. My eyelashes do exist! They're just little tiny baby hairs, that's all. Since I had never done this before, I didn't know what to expect. However, I learned that it wasn't a complicated procedure; put protective sheets under the lashes, clean the clashes, attach each individual lash extension, comb it over and you're done!

Because it was my first time getting extensions, I didn't want to go overboard so I asked my esthetician to make them as natural looking as possible. For the full set, it took about an hour and a half total. There was no discomfort, no stinging of any kind and she was really careful not to get glue on my actual lids.

They really do look natural, and look great on their own. With eyeshadow, they look even better and stand out even more. Overall, I'm very happy with my experience and I think for my refill, I'm going to go a little bit bolder.

You're Invited!

Hey guys! If anyone is interested, my friend's spa is hosting its annual make-up party in October. There will be 3 make-up artists who will basically hold a little seminar for those that want to come and learn how to apply make-up. They highly recommend that you bring your own products to play around with.

There are only 8 spots available and it is $45 per person. I know that's a bit steep, but if you're willing to spend the money, I think it's definitely worth it. Anthony used to work for Giorgio Armani and YSL so he'll bring with him extensive knowledge on all things beauty. 

ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip

L-R: Avenue, Bumble, Mars, Solow, Trap, Tulle

After waiting four days and thinking my package had been lost in the mail, I finally got my ColourPop Ultra Matte Lip order! The majority of the order was for my mum, but I decided to quickly swatch them all anyway.

I was able to test them out on my lips and was very surprised to find that the formula is very lightweight. It also didn't dry out my lips. As far as longevity goes, the corners faded when I ate. Not a huge deal breaker because most lipsticks do that anyway. It wasn't too noticeable, so that's kind of nice. Removing it was a little bit of a pain though. You definitely need something oil based to take them off. I used coconut oil to completely remove everything.

My mum ordered Avenue, Bumble, Mars, Solow and Tulle, while I ordered Trap and Tulle, which I swatched on myself. The pictures have no filter. Tulle looks just a tiny bit darker because I was quickly losing light.

Overall, I'm extremely happy about this purchase and I highly recommend them not just for the quality, but also for the price!