Tag: Skincare

Review :: My Serum Treatment Empties

~ Beauty Meow ~ Leave a comment

I just finished up 3 different serums, so I wanted to share with you my thoughts, results, and if I would buy again.

Shiseido ULTIMUNE Power Infusing Concentrate

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This is supposed to have anti-aging and regenerative properties. You are also supposed to use this first to help your other serums work better.

I got 2 deluxe samples of this and just finished my second bottle. Overall it lasted me a month. I can definitely say that my skin felt smoother and felt healthier, but I didn’t see any difference when I used this. I am going to buy the 1 ounce bottle since I believe that would last me 2-3 months to really see how well this product works. I also really like the fresh light fragrance of it.

Grade – B

Ole Henriksen Truth Serum® Vitamin C Collagen Booster

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Brightening serum rich in vitamin c. Supposed to help with fine lines, wrinkles, brighten your skin and boost collagen.

Ok, I have a love hate relationship with this product. I see almost instant results. (especially the next morning because I only use this at night) My skin feels firmer, healthier, and my fine lines started to disappear. PROBLEM is, like most Vitamin C products it really irritates my face. When I apply it my face gets beet red and can feel a little burny. But the results are so dang good! So I only use this at night. I already bought a replacement, because well, the stuff works. But if you have sensitive skin to be careful. This stuff may aggravate it.

Grade – B+

RADICAL Skincare Advanced Peptide Antioxidant Serum

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This is an anti aging, and high in antioxidant serum.

I got this as a deluxe sample, and was able to use it for over a month. I can honestly say I saw absolutely no change. No bad reactions, no results of any kind. This formula did nothing for my skin. I will not be purchasing this. I am not saying if this is good or bad it just did nothing or me.

Grade – C

 

Those are my empties this go around!

Haul :: Sephora April VIB Sale

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I usually do 2 major orders for makeup and skincare a year, and they coincide with Sephora’s VIB sales (20% in November 15% in April). This year was a little tame for me since I bought a lot of products from other websites and stores (Neiman Marcus, Ulta, Saks, and various websites for my Korean and Japanese skincare and makeup items).

For the pictures I only have most of the items, not all. Because for some reason Sephora decided to ship my items in 3 different shipments (they have NEVER done that before so strange).

Here we go!!!!!

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The Goods

pictured

  • SK-II Facial Treatment Clear Lotion
  • SK-II Facial Essence Treatment- I got the new limited edition bottle, so pretty!
  • Chosungah 22 Dual Lip Tint & Gloss in Cashmere (I did a review earlier)
  • Chosungah 22 Dual Lip Tint & Gloss in Velvet
  • Tatcha Dewy Skin Mist – I bought the travel size previously and FELL IN LOVE so I got a full size too!
  • Tatcha Indigo Soothing Triple Recovery Cream
  • Tatcha Silken Pore Perfecting Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 35
  • Make Up Forever Ultra HD Invisible Cover Foundation
  • Touch in Sol Style Neon Super Proof Gel Liner in Burning Sunset
  • Yves Saint Laurent Couture Palette in Color 3

Not pictured

  • Hakuho-do + SEPHORA PRO Wedge Sloping Powder Brush (Kusabi)
  • Hakuho-do + SEPHORA PRO Large Teardrop Pointed Powder Brush (Otsubu)
  • Hakuho-do + SEPHORA PRO Fan Cheek Brush (Ougi)Lancome Miracle CC Cushion – Color Correcting Primer in Purple
  • Benefit Cosmetics The POREfessional Face Primer
  • Sephora Collection Solid Clean: Solid Brush Cleaner

I have a picture of the first 2 brushes, and the YSL palette.

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The boxes are really nice

I have wanted to try Hakuho-do brushes, and I have been intrigued by these for awhile. I am not expecting the works of a real Hakuho-do, but I like that they partnered with Sephora for these brushes, and guess what… they are SYNTHETIC! I had mixed feelings about that but I read and watched some reviews so I figured I would buy a few.

Also it was buy one get one free! They are limited edition so if anyone is interested I would go grab one or two before they are gone!

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Sloping Powder

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Large Teardrop Brush

And this amazing YSL Palette!

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I really love that range of colors. Its really flattering for my brown eyes!

I also tried the Lancome cushion primer in the store, I was super impressed. I am looking forward to using that as well!

Anyway super duper excited for these! ❤

 

Kashoen Brush Unboxing

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I got the rest of my Kashoen Brushes. I ordered these from ALEXICIOUS which is an amazing company with high end products from Japan. They have everything, including Kashoen Brushes. I could be wrong but I think its one of the only places to get them online.

I am a huge sucker for makeup brushes, and I wanted to do a small order to see how these worked, before I invested a lot more in a more full set.

I got a small makeup brush set (that comes in a pretty pink silk pouch) and a cleanser brush. I have the Cleanser brush set from Tatcha (WHICH I AM LOVING!), and read that the cleansers are good for powder and bronzer, thus why I got a second!

I am going to show you how they come because good golly the packaging is just STUNNING and I am a sucker for packaging!

The Kashoen Cleanser Brush

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This is a beautiful wooden box, that has the name and decal etched onto the box, it has some designs on the side too! So lovely! And ensures it arrives safely! ❤

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after opening the box.

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Wrapped in rice paper

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I got the one with the red handle because I just fell in LOVE with the color!

The bristles are super duper soft, and it is such a pleasure to hold. I like the little chain so I can hang it while it dries. Love love LOVE!

Little Hana Basic Brush Set

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The box.

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You can barely see, but the paper has the pretty floral decal printed in pale pint all over it.

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After you open the box. The attention to detail when it comes to packaging these is insane.

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Outside of the silk pouch. It’s a pretty ballet shoe pink.

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Inside.

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The Brushes

  • Cheek Powder Brush
  • Eye Shadow Applicator
  • Eye Shadow Brush
  • Comb and Brow
  • Lip Brush

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And here is the set put together.

I haven’t had a chance to try the makeup set set. It is a very petit set, perfect for my bag or travel. If I love them I may invest in the larger more extensive set in the future! But I am OBSESSED with the cleanser brushes!

I am also wanting to try some Hakuhodo, and Chikuhodo brushes as well. so I may get those in the future as well.

I hope you enjoyed this unboxing! ❤

REVIEW ::Dr Brandt Time Reverse Cream

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Dr Brandt’s Do Not Age Time Reverse Cream was another deluxe sample I tried. I am looking for a good anti aging cream to wear at night, and I received this sample to try out. I have stated before I won’t spend a lot of money on things unless I had the opportunity to try them out for 2-3 weeks first. So I was able to make this sample last about 3 weeks and I have some feelings about it.

The Low Down (taken from Sephora’s website)

What it is:
A nourishing, age-defying cream.

What it is formulated to do:
Powered by the skin transforming system, Juvenesscence+ Complex, and infused with an energetic blend of essential oils, this incredible cream helps reduce the look of aging skin. Developed with hydrating babassu oil to provide the ultimate sensorial experience and delivered in an exclusive lamellar formula, the cream melts at skin temperature to moisturize while delivering the power of Juvenessence+ Complex.

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
– Parabens
– Sulfates
– Phthalates

What else you need to know:
This product helps promote smooth, supple, youthful-looking skin and acts as an amazing age-defying duo when used in conjunction with the Do Not Age Transforming Pearl Serum.

Research results:
In a consumer study lasting 30 days:
– 100% of subjects reported that their skin felt replenished and hydrated after 1 day
– 100% of subjects reported that their skin had become firmer and tighter after 2 weeks
– 96% of subjects reported that their skin looked plumper and smoother after 1 month
– 96% of subjects reported that the contour of their face looked redefined

My Thoughts

I saw no real noticeable results. Like nothing! If anything the product when applies made my face feel slightly cool, and super greasy. It has really good reviews but it just did absolutely nothing for my skin. Nothing at first, and definitely nothing after 3 weeks of use. I got much better results from the Dr Brandts Dream Night Cream, but even those were lackluster. So far Dr Brandt’s products don’t seem to do anything for me, so I will probably steer away from them. They do get really good reviews so they must work for some people, but this one did nothing for me….whoooomp whoomp.

Grade D

Haul :: ETUDE House Goodies!

~ Beauty Meow ~ 2 Comments

Today has been an excellent day of packages for me. Not only did I receive my beautiful Kashoen Brush set from Tatcha, my SK-II Facial Treatment Essence (I was almost out) but I also got my order from ETUDE House!!!!!

Let me share my goodies! ❤

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I got the limited edition set of the Pink Cherry Blossom items

  • Play Pencil 101 in 5 colors
  • Perfumed Hand Cream
  • Pink Cherry Blossom Eau De Toilette (this smells amazing) Not to sweet, with hints of violet, cherry blossom, peach and amber.
  • Pink Cherry Blossom all over spray
  • Pink Cherry Blossom Pouch (THIS WILL BE PART OF A GIVEAWAY)

I also got…

Wonder Pore Freshner- I have wanted to try this, and have heard really good things.

Snowy Dessert Ginger Cookie Blusher – Look at how cute that packaging is!!! He is in a little oven. 🙂

Play 101 Contour Duo Stick

Zero Sebum Drying Powder- not in the picture, he was hiding in the box

Precious Mineral Magic Cushion– In Pink and Mint

Pure Water  Baobab Moisturizer

Baby Choux Base #2 Berry Shoux

Dear My Enamel Lips  Talk – Color #12, very pretty coral color

Big Cover Cushion Concealer – in illuminate, OMG so shimmery and pretty (also was hiding in the box when I took this picture)

I also got a snow globe pen, and a sample set of their moistfull collagen skincare line!

Can’t wait to try these guys out!

 

Oh OOOOH, I will be doing a giveaway soon, will have items from etude house, 3 concept eyes, and more. stay tuned for more information! ❤

 

 

 

Unboxing – My Kashoen Brush set from Tatcha

~ Beauty Meow ~ 2 Comments

Ok ok, I think its safe to say I positively adore Tatcha products. I also LOVE makeup brushes and cleansing brushes. So when I learned about this limited edition set from Tatcha that features a Kashoen cleansing brush I was so there!

For those of you unfamiliar with Kashoen brushes, they are handmade brushes from Japan, that have been being made since 1883. Their brushes are divine, and I got to feel one (my friend has one) and i have been dying for a few ever since. I could go on and on about them and their brushes, but you can visit their site to learn more. I had ordered a few from Japan (just a small order) and I wanted to get an additional cleanser because I heard they are also perfect for loose powder. so when I saw this set from Tatcha I was so excited!

I also ordered a travel size of their Dewy Mist because I wanted to try it out, and they also sent me a freebie of their rice enzyme powder, which is amazing for cleansing (and perfect use for this brush!)

I love getting their packages because everything is so pretty. They put this pretty purple tape on the outside, so I always know which package is theirs!

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Their invoices are always so beautiful. They print it on beautiful rice paper.

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Another nice touch, a handwritten thank you letter on the bottom of every invoice. ❤

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Love this stuff, very nice freebie!

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So excited to try this out! I threw it straight into my purse!

I also got some samples too. One of the Indigo recovery cream. I like having samples of this because they are perfect for travel. Especially if I am only going out of town for 2-3 days. A sample lasts me that long. I also got their eye cream, and cleansing oil.

OK onto the Brush set! They call it Polished, and I think it is such an appropriate name!

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This is a REALLY  nice box

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OK first, excuse my messy kitchen counter, but if I tried to unbox this anywhere else my cats would get in the way….remember the last time. Also here is a picture of the instructions, and that tiny little hand knotted package is the brush. How beautiful!!!!

Also did I mention how nice the box is, its so nice!

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OMG you guys, this is the prettiest, sweetest, softest brush! I can’t wait to use her! Those Bristles are like the soft belly hair of kitten angels!

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The Lacquered bowl. This is made to be used with the Rice cleanser, which is so fun they made this set for that!

And Finally…….

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The set put together. How PRETTY!! I am in absolute LOVE!!

I need to clean off a space on my counter, so for right now I put it back in its sturdy box, but I should have this set up in the next few days!

I am so in love! I will write a proper review once I really get to using this brush. And I can’t wait for my other brushes to arrive as well!

❤

Skincare Tips :: Busy Morning Routine

~ Beauty Meow ~ 2 Comments

I know some mornings I have an appointment to get to or I wake up way to late and just want to start my day with little fuss. But it is never good to skip your morning routine. Rather amend it. I have several products lines up for when I am feeling super lazy about my skincare. Using these in the am, still gives me a fresh, clean, and moisturized face, without the 12 steps.

Heres my quick routine and the products I use

  1. Cleanse once – I use either a cleansing cloth or Jeju Volcanic Pore Cleansing Foam from Innisfree
  2. Toner – I am still using and loving Aloe BHA Skin Toner by Benton
  3. Essence – Currently using SK-II Facial Treatment Essence 
  4. Eye Cream – Moistfull Collagen Eye Cream by Etude house
  5. Moisturize – Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion

This routine takes me no longer then 5 minutes or less, and leaves me with a clean fresh face. If I am super rushed I usually slather some BB cream, powder, blush, and mascara and run out the door. I can get ready in under 10 minutes, and still look put together, and not sloppy at all!

This routine is also a great way to jumpstart  a new skincare routine, especially if you want to go to 10-12 steps. Get used to this first, and find the right products for you then you can experiment with new steps and products, and have a good core regime down!

Good Luck ❤

Skincare Tips :: Improve your Routine with an Essence

~ Beauty Meow ~ 2 Comments

So when I jumpstarted my skincare routine I spent a lot of time looking into what products would be worth adding (in matter of time and money spent) and what might be overkill. I remember learning about essences and thought that it might not be important, so I skipped it for a few months. I got an essence to try as a deluxe sample and decided to give it a whirl, and oh buy was my mind changed! Now it is an integral part of my skincare routine, and I kinda kick myself for thinking it wasn’t important.

What is an Essence?

An essence is a concentrated treatment that is usually liquid or gel (can be in other forms but rarely)  that works to help revitalize complexion, decrease/minimize fine lines and wrinkles, and helps with uneven skin tones. They work really well because they address the issues on a cellular level.

When do I add it into my routine?

I would recommend applying your essence after your toner and before your serums, or moisturizer. I have heard some people add it before their toner, but I use it after my toner.

Should I see a difference right away?

That depends on you and your skin, and what essence you are using. Generally Id say you should see real results within 28 days (when you have newer skin) but for all the essences I have used I have seen results in as little as 3-4 days.

 

I love essences, I am practically obsessed with them. Its one of the skincare products I have no problem dropping huge bucks on. I love and adore my SK-II Facial Treatment Essence. But by no means do you have to spend a fortune on them. I listed below some popular essenses and links to where to buy them. I recommend giving them a shot!

  • Missha Time Revolution Essence – Available at certain beauty websites, and Amazon!
  • SK-II Facial Treatment Essence – Sephora
  • Hera Cell Essence – KoreaDepart.com
  • Innisfree Soybean Energy Essence – Amazon

There are so many other essences out there, give them a shot! If you have a favorite, comment below. I’d love to check out different ones! ❤

 

Review :: Lindsay Luxury Magic Mask – Charcoal

~ Beauty Meow ~ 4 Comments

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OK so I love a good mask, especially after I feel like I have put my skin through Hell (a lot of high fat and sodium foods, alcohol, tons of makeup) so today being a Holiday was one of those days (LOTS of wine). So I decided to try out this mask again I got from Lindsay, that is a charcoal peel away mask!! I used it once, but wanted to try it at least twice before I made up my mind about it.

Let’s review!

When you first get this mask you have to mix 2 components together, I believe all sets come with a collapsable bowl and spatulas (mine did) so you just add step one and step two together and mix away

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step one is really pretty!

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step two mixed into step one…

I don’t know if it is supposed to be super smooth, I tried to mix it as well as I could.

Applying this mask is sort of easy with the spatula, impossible with fingers so don’t do that. For the mask to peel off you have to put a thick layer around your face.

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frightening I know…

You have to wait 20-30 minutes in order for it to dry before you peel it off. At first I was wary, but this mask feels so good on. Really its nice and cooling, and it starts to set up quickly so it doesn’t run down your face. So I really loved having it on.

Pulling it off was so easy. And my skin felt so soft and nourished.

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I should save this for Halloween. Its terrifying!

Impressions

Ok, I LOVE this mask.  My skin feels so nice, to was easy to use, and a pleasure to wear. The only downside is it is a little expensive ($30 for a set of 5 masks) But If I save these for days I really need a pick me up I don’t think the price would be that bad. A little to pricey for twice a week use though).

I spent $30 on them at memebox.com > Link to masks!

I wanted to wait to use this mask at least twice before I reviewed so I could give a really proper grade for it. Overall when I run out of these I will be buying them again, and if you have sebum, oil, or pore issues this mask could be awesome for you!

Grade  A-

Review :: Freeman Facial Charcoal and Black Sugar Scrub Mask

~ Beauty Meow ~ 2 Comments

OK, so I was at the supermarket and I was getting some toiletries when I saw that they were having a bogo for this brand, Since I am always on the hunt for a good exfoliator I figured I would take the plunge ($8 for 2 bottles seemed good, I however got this one and their cucumber peeling mask)

I decided to do a first impressions mini review on it. A lot of higher end brands get reviewed, so why not a drugstore brand?

WARNING weird picture of my long face below.

This is the packaging, and it seems like it could be very promising…

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fyi, I am always wary of things that say all skin types, but I decided to still give this a go.

A little dollop in my hand, it had a unique and unexpected consistency.

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I think I was expecting something that had more charcoal, this just looked like a repackaged sugar scrub (which this mask is, but I also was hoping for something more, well maskish)

Here is where I applied it to my face, you are supposed to let it sit on your face for 5-7 minutes, then massage it into your skin for 1-2 then rinse off. It didn’t really like staying in one spot and started sort of sliding on my face, so that was a bother.

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(my face was all puffy that day, UGH)

OK so anyways I managed to let it sit on there, then I massaged it in and rinsed it off.

Overall it left my skin feeling VERY clean, and smooth. Was a hassle to leave on, but I think that the annoyance of that is worth the pay off. Especially when this was very affordable and easy to find. I don’t know if I will rebuy though. So I am still on the hunt for exfoliators!

Grade – B+