Review: Hada Labo Gokujyun Hyaluronic Acid Lotion

I literally forgot I have not taken a single picture of it and had to crop it from my pics of skincare routine

I got this through Amazon, shipped from Japan ... so it fully Japanese, so information I got was from numerous reviews online and also Ratzillacosme which was really really helpful.
From Ratzillacosme:-

The ingredients here is pretty basic and that's what I love it for!

I heard of this product wayyy before but just never got interested until Hyaluronic acid become 'trendy'... lols... so since a lot of skincare brand started to emphasize how their formulation is so rich with Hyaluronic acid, I just went for this after reading numerous the great reviews.

10 years ago when it came out in TV ads while I was still in secondary school back home in Malaysia I never really think this product relevant to me because I was the acne-prone teenager who knows nothing other than killing acne with benzoyl peroxide and that hydration ? that ain't doing anything to my skin... so I thought. but now I've learnt. 

I found that this the most basic hyaluronic acid product, and basic is good. I would not say this is the best and maybe as a single product something else can be better but it is one of the best you can start with especially those who is new to  serious skincare. Especially for the price for the amount it just make sense!

Application:
It just slightly more viscous than water but and can felt a little sticky which do not last. It's clear and oh so easy to apply. No smell. You can just drop it to palm and swipe across face and neck, and pat it. I usually use it after putting on my vitamin C or my retinol in light thin watery formula, then followed by thicker serum.
It is perfect for layering, best use by adding more toners afterward or mist and finish off with a more occlusive products. You don't need to of course,  it perfectly fine to just leave it on and yes it's great for those DIY lotion mask.

Packaging:
Simple plastic bottle, quite squeez-y, non-leaking top in 170ml.

Performance:
It gives a kick to your complexion and plump it, great under makeup. Feel well hydrated all day. I have no reaction to it and not causing me break outs.
I have to say that if you are 'very' dehydrated and the weather soooo dry ie. low humidity you do find this is not enough. This is probably not the only solution. You need something richer or go into layering.
But if you live in Malaysia or more humid climate or has oily skin this should great and actually enough.

Price:
I got it for about 11 to 12 quids something on Amazon for 170ml with free delivery which is very affordable given it deliver direct from Japan. I do know this is cheaper in Malaysia and probably so in Japan.

Overall:
4.95/5.00

I have finish my last bottle and has no plan to repurchase is as I dabble the premium version which is really good and kinda plan to stick with that one. That's where I took off the 0.05, lols.

Review: Eucerin Anti-Ageing Hyaluron Filler Night Cream

Today I am reviewing a night cream from the brand Eucerin.

Eucerin claims:

Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler Night Cream

Anti-wrinkle night cream with Hyaluronic Acid for all skin types 

An advanced formula night cream to target and plump up even the deepest wrinkles from within.The formula of Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler Night Cream contains two different types of Hyaluronic Acid to target and treat all wrinkle types plus bio-activeGlycine-saponin, to actively increase the skin’s own Hyaluronic acid production. Concentrated Dexpanthenol supports the skin’s overnight regeneration process. Skin feels soft and well cared for.

EUCERIN HYALURON-FILLER

As skin ages, levels of naturally occurring Hyaluronic acid deplete causing surface lines and deeper wrinkles to form.
Each product in the clinically-tested Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler range contains a combination of high and low molecular Hyaluronic Acid as well as bio-active Glycine Saponin, a substance proven to increase the skin’s own Hyaluronic acid synthesis.
If lines and wrinkles are your primary aging concern, the Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler range combines a potent wrinkle-plumping action with excellent skin tolerability.

INGREDIENTS:

Aqua, Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter,Isopropyl Palmitate, Panthenol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hydrogenated Coco-Glycerides,Octyldodecanol, Butylene Glycol, Glyceryl Stearate Citrate, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Glycine Soja Germ Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol,Methyl Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Dimethicone,Carbomer, Caprylyl Glycol, Trisodium EDTA, 1,2-Hexanediol, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum

I gotta say, Eucerin provide one of the most useful website. They explain everything in detail and even include an ingredient dictionary. They also have this detailed list of what cream to use instead of the usual "Are you oily? Normal? or Dry?" :-

So now we don't have to be confused by the variety of product they offer.

This is a very rich night cream that is very suitable for very dry and dehydrated skin.
The reason I bought this in the past despite having oily acne prone skin was because I suddenly start experience dry flaky skin. This was before I use glycolic actively and was on daily BP gel.

The idea of hyaluronic acid for hydration was relatively new to me and I don't even know about the hype on Hyaluron that time.
So I just pick this up without looking into different brands. Unfortunately, looking at the ingredient, this is not the cream if you seeking for a hardcore 'Hyaluronic Acid' product.

Personal experience:

Colour: Off white cream

Texture: Rich and buttery and almost balm like.

I use this at night on top of my usual moisturizer whenever I feel it's not enough.
To be honest I was worry because this is way too creamy to suit my skin type but I admit I love this type of cream. So I always use sparingly to suit my oily skin.
The only issue I am starting to be cautious about now is the shea butter. The texture and smell the cream is definitely 'reeks' shea butter which is top in the ingredient list.
I usually tolerate quite well with shea butter but I think this might contain too much shea butter. And it does not help that I change my other cream with something that contain shea butter as well.

I never got break out from this. There was time I notice one two very tiny whitehead, which I presumed happen when I used too much. But it is not too bad... it is not a full blown pimple as usually by that evening after washing they literally vanish no bleed whatsoever.

After learning about the not so good thing about shea butter I want to be a bit more careful and I think I should avoid using this on the face.

Now having said that, this really felt good on skin, I cannot deny. It smooth out and hydrate all the dry patches and flakyness. 
Foundation just applied so smooth and give a good glow. I love using this when I applied makeup on my friends and when I experimenting with base makeup. 

I can't really comment about the plumping effect, if there is maybe it's not too significant... especially for me which has quite a 'puffy' face and I don't really have lines that too deep.

I still think this is a good product if you have no issue with shea butter and you don't mind the 'grease' look.
There is no problem wearing this even in the day and wear sunscreen on top. You can also use it selectively on areas with dry patches/flake like a skin balm.

Now this does belong a more 'mature' range in Eucerin, so it quite expensive for a drugstore cream... well I think generally Eucerin is quite on pricey side at Boots. So I would leave this cream as a last resort, because I think you might find cream with shea butter+ hyaluronic acid combination with cheaper price tag.

Price: GBP 26.00 for 50 ml

Overall rating : 3.7/5.0

And
 Happy Fasting to all Muslim whose welcoming the Ramadhan!

Hauls #17 - Collective Beauty Hauls - Illamasqua, Avene, Eucerin

Continuing the collection haul from last post. 

These what I got from Boots. I think I bought this in 3 for two deal, so the Eucerin cleanser is free.

Eucerin Dermo Purifyer Cleanser 200ml GBP 9.18

I tried this product years ago when I was still in school but it was too expensive for me that time. I like that it's anti-bacterial, but also quite gentle in gel form, I never felt tight with this cleanser as far as I can remember. I'm thinking of converting from Origins A Perfect World Cleanser just because I want to get rid of foaming cleanser which can be quite drying. I'm still afraid if Eucerin Dermo Purifyer is drying but if that the case I probably try their gentle cleanser and keep this for emergency when I suddenly have breakouts.

Avene Antirougeurs Calm Soothing Repair Mask 50ml GBP 15.00

When I'm trying new brands, mask is usually the first choice. Mask needs less commitment because you usually wear it once to 3 times a week, compare to a cream which usually once or twice daily. I thought Avene would have decent mask and I found this. There's two version, one Soothing Rich and the one I bought which is Soothing Repair. I chose the repair because I just love something repairing or rejuvenating *same as my love for Origins Planscription* and this probably because of my acne scars. 

  

Avene Micellar Lotion Cleanser and Makeup Remover 200ml GBP 12.50
Ok I'll be lying if I said I was never tempted to get Bioderma, although I did never get to it. Micellar has been a 'big bomb' in beauty world for its art of removing makeup and I don't how I was drawn to Avene's one. What I really like about the idea of micellar, is that it's a liquid remover without oil and it can be for the whole face. So I think instead of getting wipes to be used when I'm too lazy to wash my face and just want to remove makeup. It doesn't need rinsing and it's technically a cleanser as well, so wipe it with the cotton pad and spritz Thermal Spring Water *which I also use occasionally* and done! Definitely great for travelling!

I got to thank the Pixiwoo Sam for introducing Illamasqua for me. She has made this brand to be more approachable to me because before this I think Illamasqua counter can be very dramatic and I can't get myself to the counter but finally I went for it.

Illamasqua Highlighter Brush GBP 24.00

I got this brush when I bought the foundation... on impulse. The sales assistant apply on me the Skin Base Foundation with this brush and I'm totally hooked. Now I'm fully understand why people love using those small dome dense brush for foundation like MAC 109, it just buff the foundation into the skin like a second layer. But this one is better for liquid since it's synthetic, so the brush is not easily ruin. I'm sure I'll be using less of my Real Technique Stippling Brush.

Illamasqua Blending Brush 1 GBP22.00

Alright I think I got this online and I have no idea why exactly I chose this. I was thinking of investing in a premium eyeshadow blending brush and I was aiming for MAC 224 after I got the MAC 217. But I thought of trying other brand and Illamasqua stood out especially when this brush has a reviewer state "a superior dupe of MAC 224" so I got it, lol. This is synthetic as well.

Illamasqua Skin Base Foundation #12 30ml GBP 27.00
The reason of how I got into Illamasqua in the first place. I has heard great reviews on this product and especially professional makeup artist reviewer all love it very much. There was an article from Beautylish which I tweeted before and praise this product. This is claimed as BB cream, and I totally understand it. It is but it's just not label as BB cream and it's been around even before BB cream got crazy in western beauty world. Now that's cool compare to most brand that just re-brand their average even shitty tinted moisturizer as the highly acclaimed BB cream. So I got matched at the counter and I could never be more satisfied with their service as they listen to me in what I want, which is a foundation that brightens up my face instead of just matching my skin tone flat. It is light but it can give full coverage finish.

Illamasqua Liquid Metal in Electrum GBP 10.00 (original price price: GBP 17.50)
I got this in the sale because of the price drop. There was another darker brown colour which look nice as well, but for some reason I was afraid of the red shimmer in it when actually my skintone can pull it off actually. Nevertheless I was drawn to this yellow kind of tarnished antique gold and I'm always drawn to shimmery gold tone eye colour. Definitely prefer this colour than MAC Paint Pot in Rubenesque. Great for simple eye lid colour.

Review: Revlon Matte Lipstick Really Red

When I'm starting getting into makeup, one of the look that I was really drawn to is the matte red lips. That time I still can't afford MAC or other high end brand and back in Malaysia that time, there aren't any decent red lips and there was NO matte lipstick range. So when Revlon come up with the Revlon Matte Lipstick, I fall heads over heels with it!

Now I had a hard time to convince myself to get it since I wasn't financially well *compare to now, lol... bless you student loan!* and plus the salers at Watson (a drugstore in Malaysia) isn't helping much at all ... keep on saying I should stick to pinky and nude blah blahhhh... you see that time, the RED LIP is not trendy at all, it was still associated with mature women and probably rebellion teenagers... even Malaysian celebrities or artist do not spot a red lips ( but that was back in the those day, now many Malay girls spot a red lips... maybe because of Yuna Zarai?)

Moving on to this lipstick, (skip all the awkwardness trying to wear red lips back in college),
it was one of the best I ever had. It's really red, hence the name Really Red and it's the right amount of being not too bright or too deep. I haven't found red lipstick of the same shade, some say it's a dupe of MAC Rubywoo but I'm not too sure, since Rubywoo can be a bit too cool? but I don't have that so I'm not sure.
All in all, Revlon really nail this shade!

with flash

without flash

Other than that, I think the red is almost neutral and I think it looks a bit warm on me because of my warm skintone. I really like how it does not look pink on me even if I make a stained lips. For me it is a basic red lipstick to have. You can go for pale red stain or you can go bold matte red or you can top clear gloss over it.
Now saying that it's a basic red lipstick I love layering this over other stuff,
I love it with Revlon Colorburst in Sienna to achieve that brick-red stained lips,
I love it MAC Lipstick in Alibi to make it more red orange,
and recently,
I love it under Tony Moly Tony Tint in Red Apple for that ultra deep stained but not dark red lips,

all these look are matte which always the lip looks I prefer and definitely look more edgy compare to a typical red which many *Malay girl* is spotting.
It's inevitable that I branch out to different kind of reds and other deeper colour, I can't believe myself as well when I look into my lipstick drawer.

The formula is really matte and it's actually a drying matte I would say. So if you have a dry lips, lip balm is a must, because it can be flaky. Probably those with not so dry lips would not have this problem.
Being a dry matte, it does not feather at all. This is very important when you spotting red lips, you don't want it outside of your lips. Although I notice it does not last that long and if you have an oily meal, you might as well just wipe it clean and apply it again after eating, cause it's hardly last, well for me. What I'll do is layer it up, that is to wear it, blot with tissue, powder it and layer it again, and do it at least 3 times. That will give the best long lasting result. Wearing red lipliner is helpful as well, and I use MAC lipliner in Redd if I'm wearing its true shade.

The packaging is okay, nothing fancy and does not have that cheap look, though it does not look expensive as well. The top is clear so you can see through what lipstick it is like most of Revlon Lipstick.
Since it's a drugstore brand it's definitely more affordable, GBP 7.49, but I say nowadays many brand has come up with decent matte red lipsticks and probably cheaper. So more options and you can try compare them and find which is the best for you. Since it's quite cheap, it's a good way for experiment if you have not try red lips before but interested.
The question now is will I repurchase? I'm not so sure since I have loads of red lipstick now and I'm still greedy to try other brands as well, but I cannot deny this is a very good staple.

Overall rating: 4 out of 5 

May 2012 Roundup/Favourites

So this would be my first *hopefully not my last* favourites/roundup post, it's basically some picks of stuffs I like/wear/reach for most during the month. Hopefully this post make me pay more attention for stuff I use too often or stuff I don't reach for or unsuitable for me.

I was suppose to post this on 31st May but for some reason I had quite a hard picking out stuff that I like/wear/reach for most during the month. At first I would want to make it only beauty items, then I was thinking like why not just add fashion/clothing items... 

ok, ok enough about explaining this post.

Real Techniques Stippling Brush for Foundation application

I have given up standard paddle flat synthetic brush in exchange to Stippling Brush for foundation application ever since I got it. Alright, I admit I jump onto different dual fibre/stippling brush foundation application quite too late... Most people would say the MAC 187 or stippling brush is sooooo oudated... now many is more interested in using flat top kabuki brush or buffering brush, or even MAC 109 instead of MAC 187. 

I hardly see stippling brush used for applying foundation and when I look for latest youtubers who used Real Techniques Stippling Brush, most of them don't use these for foundation. Actually I got this as the 3rd free items in Boots for their 3 for 2 offers and I actually plan to get the Buffer Brush in the set but I got this one first and thought about giving it a try. Despite the fact I'm new to applying foundation with stippling brush but I'm not new to the brush itself. I actually have another one from Etude House which I use for my blusher. So I give this a try with my liquid foundation and I really love how Real Techniques Stippling Brush work. The bristles is quite sturdy and not too 'floppy' which can really work my foundation into my skin. For my liquid foundation, first I would stipple and swirl the foundation and get a light even application all over my face, blending it making sure there's not streaks or whatever. Then I would stipple some more onto areas that need a bit more coverage. This tend to be my cheeks and chin. I love how little of foundation I used with this brush and it does not absorb too much product like a standard flat paddle brush do. I especially love to use it with my MAC Studio Sculpt Foundation which is much of thicker formula.  I'm not sure whether I will keep using this since plan to try Buffer Brush or Expert Face Brush or even splurge on MAC 109 but for now I'm loving this.

Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Skin Protectant

I admit I just want to feel luxurious when I got the infamous Eight Hour cream, and what's great was that I got this in a set which I got the full size tube with others products (creams, hand body lotion, lipbalm) for price less than the standard price for just the full size tube. I kept this by my bed side and always reach for it to be put on my lips and as well as some dry patches on my face. My lips has never been this soft and I felt great putting on lipstick or even leave with just this balm on. It also reduces the appearance of the dry patches ad flakiness around my eyebrow, mouth and nose area. This was definitely not a waste of my money especially when I got this at a very reduced price. 

For clothing items I found myself loving wearing this light blue chambray or denim shirt that I got from Primark in men's section and this light beige *oatmeal* legging jeans I got from Gap. 

Primark Men's *Primark hauls coming soon!*

Sorry you'll be able to see the wrinkled since I wore it too much
and it was in the laundry basket hehe.

I just cannot stop wearing these since I got them until I put them in the laundry. Sometime I pair these together which I love too, or I pair the light shirt with dark skinnys and the beige skinny with dark or black tops for my usual light+dark combo. 

I love how the men's shirt actually give this loose fit look and the material is really light and not to rigid so it doesn't really look like I wore a man's shirt. The colour is so basic and layback look. 

The beige legging jeans is really really comfortable! I think I almost live in these during May until of course I had to put it into laundry. It fit snugly in my waist with enough stretch-ability for my comfort and I love that it's not a low rise  *almost come up to my belly button* so I can stick my love handles in, hehe. Again this is just a basic since it's plain and I've been dying to get this skinny in this colour, finally I manage to have a proper one.

That's all for my May Roundup or favourites, till next time!

Spring 2012 Beauty hauls - mostly makeups!

Alright just finish my exam. It's just one module that I sit for the 3rd time so hopefully 3rd time is a charm, and I scored this finally... haihhhh...


So continue on... first post after exam, beauty hauls.


This season for some reason I was into brushes. Just thank goodness, I was not sucked into MAC brushes crazyness, I was spending more drugstore brands *cheaper*. and I would thank the Boots's 3 for 2 offer for this.

so I'm not sure where to start but since I talked about brushes, so let's start with that, again these are all in random order because there's is no way I can remember when I got all these stuff. This seems a lot *and expensive* but you see I'll just put up the retail price here but most of the stuff I got for free or discounted from store offers or my beauty card club claim *rebate* and note that all price in GBP.

So as you know I am a big fan of Pixiwoo channel on Youtube, I really like that Samantha Chapman has comeup with a brush collection "Real Techniques" and it's all synthethic brush and affordable.
The face brush might cost a bit more than 10 quids, then there's brush set for a bit more 20 quids and in set they got about 4 brushes, making this collection really affordable.
Real Techniques

Top: The packaging,
 Bottom: Brushes in panaromic view style  brush  pouch,
 from left: pixel point eyeliner, accent brush, brow brush, base shadow brush, deluxe crease brush

Starter set (eyes): 20.99
I admit I got this because of the rave on the 'Deluxe Crease Brush' that is an amazing brush for putting on concealer. The other brush included in this are the base shadow brush, accent brush, pixel-point eyeliner brush and brow brush. Then there is a nice brush pouch which is really great for travelling especially.

Stippling brush : 10.99
I was just really tempt for some reason. After watching a few videos using stippling brush with foundation and I was more convinced.This one is all synthetic bristles and supposedly 'stippling and swirl' method can be used with this brush instead of the traditional dual fibre stippling brush method which is just to stipple.

Eco tools brush is also one of those recommended by Pixiwoo and love it because it's affordable.

Recycled Retractable Kabuki 12.99
I got this for touch up purpose and I don't really like the sponge that come with powder compact. I used to bring my Bodyshop Kabuki brush because it has pouch but it's just too much effort that I had to get it out from the pouch so I have to get those retractable one. This is a good option because it's a good quality and cheap.

Touch Up Set 14.99
I think I got this in the Boots offer 3 for 2, and instead getting something cheap for free, I make sure all the stuff I bought is of about the same price so I save more than 10.00 pounds. Great! The reason I snatched this set because I was attracted that it has lip brush and lash brow groomer because I don't have proper one. Other brush included is the Finishing Brush and Eye Shading Brush which is great for under eye sockets and it come with an extra pouch.

MAC Brush Cleanser 8.50
Did you know how long does my brush take to dry itself after cleasing?? Days!! Which I found so inconvenient so I got this brush cleanser. It's alcohol base so it disinfect, clean and condition, plus with faster drying. What's greater is that it's good for cleansing between use since it's fast drying as explained by MAC sale assistant when I was at the counter.

As you all know I am quite a MAC junkie so these what I got.

MAC

From Left upper:  MAC Lipliner in Dervish, Prep+Prime Eyes #Medium Dark, Lipstick  # Taupe, #Diva

Lipstick in Diva  13.50
A great deep red burgundy matte colour, with enough red pigment since I don't really like 'too much purple' like Rebel. Finally a decent lipstick for the wine lipstained effect.

Lipstick in Taupe  13.50
I got to thank ThePersianbabe for introducing me to this lipstick on Youtube. I'm buying this so it could be a great day to day lipstick since it's not so 'full on' and also it's a matte which I always prefer. It actually look quite nude but a bit darker on me but it's great! I would love to explain more but maybe on another post.


Prep+Prime Eye in Medium Dark 12.50
I thought of getting the MAC Paint Pot in Soft Ochre because it's a better match for my skin but I hate the idea of getting another paint pot for the same purpose because then what I would do with my Painterly Paint Pot?? So I decided to try this one. For days I'm doing simple wash of colour or simple eyeliner when I feel Painterly Paint Pot is just too much but I still can't forgo eye base, this is great. It's quite sheer and the sales assistant explain to me to use it very sparingly and before my concealer or even under paint pot.


Lipliner in Dervish 10.50
I can remember exactly why I got this, I think I was trying to get a lighter brown nude lipliner *lighter than Spice* but the sales assistant match me to this which is pink one but I kinda like it and got it which mean I end up not buying what I originally want to... haihh...*I wasn't on top of my game that day* But, I'm not really into wasting stuff as well as  returning so I still use it. It's lighter than Whirl  and has a bit of sheen.

From Left: MAC Eyeshadom (Refill Pan) # Cork, #Print

Eyeshadow in Cork 10.00
Eyeshadow in Print 10.00
So since I got the Z-pallete *large one* I was only thinking of getting eyeshadow or blush in pans so it's more cheaper. So I got MAC Pro Pallete  Refill Pan in Print to add a dark grey into my collection and it has some shimmer but not glittery. Another one in Cork which is a matte medium yellow toned beige, great for subtle contouring since my Brun is a bit too dark.

Packed To Go: 3 Assorted Black Eyeliner 27.50
I bought this just because it's a great bargain. Three full size MAC eyeliner for less than 30.00 pounds??? Woww! It would be really perfect if it got brown in it... haiihhh. So this include the Penultimate Eye Liner in Rapidblack, Powerpoint Eye Pencil in Engraved and Kohl Power Eye Pencil in Feline.

Mineralized Skinfinish in Soft and Gentle 21.50
Definitely the latest purchase,  a bit of retail therapy during exam mode. I always wanted to get MAC skinfinish and when MAC In Extra Dimension come up with 'to die for' golden tone Whisper of Gilt, I really want to get it, but UNFORTUNATELY they ran out. I missed it. There's some stock of Glorify which is more bronzy but I don't want that. So to make myself feel better I got the Mineralized one, Soft and Gentle. I might make another post on highlighters.

Chanel Rouge Allure Velvet in La Somptueuse #39 23.50
I got to say I had to get an injection of luxury at times and Chanel does it for me, that's is all.
This is a matte to satin finish, very light and airy and the colour is just a divine deep red and very much 'me'! The luxury effect definitely obvious with the amazing packaging with 'click on' and 'Chanel' engraved.

Origins A Perfect World Anti-oxidant Cleanser with White Tea 17.00
I used Neutrogena before and I love the Refreshing Cleanser *blue bottle* but it ran out when I was back in Malaysia last summer and I asked my sis to get it since I want to stay at home that day, but she got the Deep Cleansing (orange liquid) instead which is very drying for me. After a while, I just had to change it. It takes me to use it up 3/4 of the bottle that I finally decided to throw it, haha! So instead of looking for the right Neutrogena cleanser I thought of getting Origins instead since I'm using their skincare.

These definitely I bought because of the offers in Boots. Nevertheless a little comment why I reach for these.

From Left: Revlon Photoready Makeup #Vanilla, Revlon Bronzer #Sunkissed, Barry M Dazzle Dust #Old Gold

Revlon PhotoReady Makeup in Vanilla #002 12.99

I thought of getting a lighter foundation to be mixed with my very dark Clinique Superbalanced makeup so that it matches my face better.

Revlon Bronzer in Sunkissed #02 7.99
I was attracted to it's finish, I thought it would be a great subtle highlighter.


Barry M Dazzle Dust in Old Gold #24  4.59
I was attracted as a cheaper pigment, and Old Gold seems like an easy colour to pull of.

Okay I got to admit this post is quite compact... I don't put much comment so that this post is not too long...
Though most I would include ins certain near future post.


So it's summer holiday for me now, I have about a month in Belfast before I go back to Malaysia and then I have my trip to Seoul Korea in July so can't wait for that. That reminds me that I haven't finish my post on my Europe trip last summer... I'm lame at this... '-.-

Review: Eco Tools Blusher Brush

ok, I'm such a liar.... 3 post before the Easter holiday end???  erghh..
I was going for an exam mode and I should be now... but I just couldn't get my head 100% on revision..
I just thought probably after one blog post I might calm down, so hopefully this help.

first review on makeup brush and hopefully I will do more on my other brush... or even any other stuff to be reviewed '-.-

The Eco Tools Blusher Brush

Nice design

Why did I got this brush again?... ok, I remember I got to know this brand from Sam Chapman Pixiwoo channel, and I thought Eco Tools is like expensive stuff but I was wrong when I saw this in Boots with other drugstore brush... but I would say this brands is more on the expensive spectrum of drugstore brands price GBP 7.99.

This is not my first Eco Tools brush, I bought the liquid foundation and concealer brush as well,
but I would focus on this first.

From the packaging:-
- Highly sustainable bamboo handle, synthetic taklon bristles 100% cruelty-free, sleek ferrule is made from recycled aluminium. 

I bought this actually to replace my Elianto face brush which after a while I realize it's actually quite scratchy, but oklah, since it was a cheap brush. But instead of getting the Eco Tools face brush, I actually got the blusher brush thinking that it's just smaller version of face brush and it's tiny bit cheaper.
This brush is really soft, even though it's actually a synthetic bristles. It's soft like natural hair... well I don't have natural bristles brush, but my mum do, so I know how it feels.
The bristles is actually quite domed, but not too much and quite dense. The shape is definitely suitable for blusher or even decent contouring (not the best but good enough) since it packed enough colour to put on your face.

Closer look at the bristles, quite domed-shape

But again, I use this brush with my face powder to set my foundation. Here's when the problem start.
I started to follow this advice by some makeup artists that is
to set your foundation, you PAT the powder on.
This really make sense as this motion will not move your base especially the concealers underneath
So instead of my old ways, which is to swirl the powder, I started to use the brush in patting motion. Swirling motion might move my base a bit but not too much, but patting will not make your base budge at all.
Subsequently due to a bit of 'dome-ness' of the brush I found it to be a bit pricky...
I try to ignore but I just can't since I feel like it's no different with my Elianto brush.
However if the brush used in a swirling motion it really feel so smooth which is really good as I know it's not a 'good-for-nothing' brush :) .
I really like the PAT over the swirl idea of setting my base so after a while I stopped using this brush to set my foundation. So the brush just sat there for a while, then I even washed, put into its pouch and keep it in the drawers...
 until recently... I rediscover it,
and found it brilliant to be used with my powder highlighter.
The good point is that it's actually dense and and quite dome, it picks enough pigment/sheen from my powder highlighter and transfer well on my cheek bones. Then the shape and size of the bristles is perfect for me to blend the powder highlighter well into my skin and as I mention before the brush feels super soft when used in a swirling motion which is the great method I used to blend the powder highlighter. I want to explain more but it would just be lengthy so probably I just make a new post on powder highlighter. But basically I really discover a really amazing way to wear my powder highlighter... and  this is reason that I suddenly want to blog a review on this brush.

I swirled MAC iridescent powder on with the brush, great sheen highlight effect but still soft

In conclusion, I find this brush great to be used in a swirling motion, great for my powder highlighter. It should be great for blusher as well but I use other brush for that, but I bet it does great job for blusher as it did with my powder highlighter.
Price is great, packaging is good, the design and the handle of the brush is good as well, and it's eco-friendly, so the verdict: 
Rating: 4.5/5
Since I can't use it for the original purpose of purchasing it in the first place because it is a bit pricky, I took 0.5 off.

Alright I should be able to focus now, hahaa! *hopefully*
please do leave comments! :)

Autumn Winter Cosmetics Haul - MAC, Origins, Boots

This is accumulation of stuff I bought through out Autumn Winter, it would be crazy if I buy all of these at the same time.

This would be done randomly order, not in any sequence, and some of the product bought at store and some by online.
ok let's start!

MAC
(either at Debenhams counter or Online at MAC website)

Copper Bronze Pigment, Redd Lipliner,  239 Brush

I bought these 3 together, but I can't remember what's the total however I remember I got GBP15.00 off for my rebate of having Debenhams Beauty Club card holder, so my trip to MAC that day was to claim reward.

Lipliner in REDD - GBP 10.50

Lipliner Redd: Clearly red (matte)
Reason to buy: To be honest an impulse buy, however it is very useful for me since I love wearing red lipstick.
For now: Totally love this, make my red lips look last longer and provide more impact. Redd is a real neutral, since my complexion is more warm-tone, it appear warm. Definitely not a waste even though I don't wear this regularly *since I use Spice for my 'stained brick-red lips*.

Pigment in Copper Bronze - GBP16.50

Pigment Copper Bronze: Super frosty copper flakes

Reason to buy: The desire to experiment with MAC Pigment. I was never interested at first but lately that time I want try the glittery makeup so I thought testing the MAC pigment should be nice, and I chose the most glittery and frosty, at the same time the colour quite neutral and easy to pull of.

For now: As I said before I want a neautral colour which easier to pull off and I was introduce to Tan first however I was feeling that it was quite a waste. So to kick up the notch a bit I tried the Copper Bronze which is great. It might be quite orangey copper but that blends well into my skin. Colour highly concentrated and very shimmery glittery however can still look natural in soft wash.

MAC 239 Eye Shader Brush - GBP19.00*compare to a penny coin*

#239 Brush: Eye Shader Brush
 Reason to buy: I want to get a decent eyeshadow brush for packing colour and the MAC 239 is supposed to be a basic brush to have.
For now: I have mixed feelings at first when compare to my Bodyshop travel set eyeshadow brush, it seems that the latter one can pack colour better. But fortunately as I get used to using this brush it gets better and I love it, especially the fact it does not absorb colours, like the pigment is not cought in the brush despite colour do stain them. Probably I will get the 217 brush or try another eyeshader brush like 242 or 249.

Cleanse oil tranquil, Chili Lipstick, Zoom Lash Mascara*sample*

Hehe, got the Zoom Lash Mascara for free, love MAC. I practically have not buy black mascara for a while since I always got free sample. I still haven't use it though, even my Sublime De Chanel. 

Left: Cleanse off Oil Tranquil 150ml -GBP 18.50
Right: Studio Sculpt Foundation GBP 13.00 *original price GBP23.00*

Cleanse off Oil Tranquil
Reason to buy: Since I've been using a lot of MAC makeup I thought why not get the removers as well and I thought my L'oreal De Maq Expert was running out. At first I thought about getting the regular one in small bottle so that I can bring it if I travel by planes, however it was out of stock, then I check out the Tranquil one, then I can't remember where my thoughts gone to but I end up buying the 150 ml bottle, hehe.
For now: I haven't use it yet, I want to finish my L'oreal De Maq Expert. But I like that the Cleanse off Oil is about the same method to use, which oil turn to emulsion method, which totally my style. It has the oil to really dissolve the makeup and and add bit of water to change into emulsion to get rid of the oiliness. It's nice that it can be use allover face.

Studio Sculpt Foundation SPF15 NC42

Studio Sculpt Foundation SPF15 in NC42
Reason to buy: Since I got like 3 pots of the concealer I thought it's time to get foundation. That time I got GBP 10.00 off due to Debenhams Beauty Club reward and I was checking the reviews and it seems promising.
For now:  I haven't use this regularly yet, but I tried it at store, even though I was not happy the way the MAC sale assistant applied it really thick. It definitely thick, not runny and is definitely medium-FULL coverage. When I apply it less thick it looks so much better. I love the packaging as well, easy pour the stuff out and easy to bring for travelling.

Lipstick in Chili - GBP13.50

Chili: Brownish  orange-red

Reason to buy: I want to add MAC red lipstick to my collection, I was disappointed with the very blue-toned MAC Prolong. I thought I want to get the Russian Red, but I afraid it will look very similar to my Revlon Really Red, so I check out Chili. The description was interesting the swatches I seen was tempting so I got it.
For now: I totally love it! It looks like burnt orange-red, like what happen when you bake chili. Even though I don't wear it often but I love it. It looks very red but very warm red, the 'burnt look' give a more muted and 'gloomy' versus the cliche 'bright' orange red. So this look much interesting and edgier.

Packed to Go - 6 Warm Smokey Eye Shadows GBP29.50

Limited Edition Online Exclusive: Packed to Go 6 Warmed Smokey Eye Shadows
 6 eyeshadow pallete with a mini brush and mirror
Top from left:-
Shroom: Soft beige with shimmer (satin)
Naked Lunch: Minimal pink with shimmer (lustre)
Tempting: Sinfully rich coco (lustre)
Bottom from left:-
Greensmoke: Tarnished olive (frost)
Stormy love: Dirty brown with green frost (frost) - obvious dualchrome
Showstopper: Deep blackened brown (matte)

Reason to buy: I was ready to look for another eyeshadow pallete to travel with other than the neutral L'oreal I had. It is really spot on that MAC come up with this 'Packed to Go' line.

For now: I really find this very useful especially when I'm going travel!! I mean all the colour are complete for eye makeup with highlighter, midtone, dark deep colour. It easy to work with and still have interesting colour. The mirror is big enough and useful and the small brush is okay too. It felt great that suddenly I have 6 MAC eye shadows at this price, nice! Plus the matte Showstopper other than great for contour it also let me experiment with putting colour on my brows which make this more useful! Now I use Showstopper for natural brows look.

ORIGINS
Okay, sorry last time I was too caught up with MAC rampage I forgot all about my ORIGINS stuffs... I am very proud to say that I am totally covert to ORIGINS for skincare. So I don't want to ignore my Origins stuff like last time ...~~ and probably the stuff I bought before I just going to do a skincare post or something *since I also forgot to post about that as well ...~~*

Left: Ginzing Eyecare 15ml GBP 14.70 (original price GBP21.00 -30% off)
Right: Brighter by Nature Serum 30ml GBP 23.80 (original price GBP 34.00- 30% off)

Ginzing: Refreshing eye cream to brighten and depuff
Reason to buy: I was running out of my Skinz Infinite Eye Revive Therapy, and since I'm on Origins I thought I would like to give this a try. I thought about the Eye Doctor first since I believe Ginzing was like on the spot corrector that it does not really improve the eyes, however the sales assistant said it does, and that the Eye Doctor is more on hydrating but Ginzing can really brightens.
For now: The same as the MAC Cleanse off oil, I haven't tried it yet since my Skinz Eye Therapy is not finished completely yet. I tried it at the counter, the consistency is gel-cream like, typical eye-cream concentration.

Brighter By Nature: Skin tone correcting serum
Reason to buy: I love serums! and one is not enough, if I am crazy I going to get another one, hahaa! I used up my Clinique Even Better before and finish one bottle. Since the result was not that visible in correcting skin tone, I thought I want to try Origins one. What makes it better that it was 30% off.
For now: I like this consistency compare to Clinique Even Better. The smell is nice as usual for all Origins stuff. Correction on spots is not that visible but overall definitely more obvious changes. My complexion does get much much brighter, I mean the first time using Origins A Perfect World, there's changes, now added with the Brighter by Nature Serum it gets better. It feels very moisturizing and does not give me flares up.

Modern Friction 125ml  GBP 30.00
Ginger Rush Body Cream *100ml sample*
Ginger Souffle Body Cream *50ml sample* 

Modern Friction: Nature's gentle dermabrasion
Reason to buy: I realise my Bodyshop Honey and Oat Scrub Mask is not enough exfoliation. So I need another one and I thought about trying a very good one and Origins Modern Friction seem to be in the top list. The fact that it is rice-base which is very good for brightening make me more interested since I was really into brightening stuff. That time it was 10% off at Debenhams, but Origins website give out freebies, so I bought it online and got the the two tube of body cream.
For now: Definitely make my skin more smooth and brighter, but I have to be careful not to massage it too much. The smell is nice as well. The free body cream is great as well, it smells very sweet and refreshing, love it.


Boots

From left: N'7 Mini Metallic 'Beneath the Morning Skies' Eyes Pencil Set GBP13.50, 17 Clear Definition Mascara GBP4.69, Revlon Grow Luscious Lashliner in Expresso GBP 6.29, Revlon Colorstay Eyeliner in Charcoal GBP 6.29, Rimmel Soft Kohl in Pure White GBP 2.99, Rimmel Gentle EyeMakeup Remover GBP ??, Rimmel Proffesional Eyebrow pencil in Black Brown GBP 2.99 (not in picture, I forgot , urghh)

 I would say all the above are impulse buys. The Revlon and Rimmel stuff I know I get with some pounds off since Boots always has this 3-for-2 deal. But I believe all the  stuff are really put into good use.

• The Rimmel eye-makeup remover is definitely useful to clean brush in between use and to correct mistakes while doing makeup, and it is much much better than the previous Garnier 2 in 1 makeup remover that was just horrible on my skin *I tweeted bout it*. 
• I want to try cheaper clear brow and lash gel than the Bodyshop one. I haven't open the 17 Clear Definition but I hope it is at same level as the bodyshop one or better.
• Dark brown liner is always a staple so I'm just stocking on this. The Revlon Grow Luscious Lashliner is really opaque and intense! And not easily smudge, but I'm not sure if it easy to smoke or blend it... haven't try that yet. 
• The Rimmel Soft Kohl in white I used a lot for brightening eye makeup which I seldom wear, so being cheap it is suitable for experimenting. I use this a lot in 60's makeup. If only I could find a nude, should be perfect. I did buy this Fearne Cotton chunky eyeliner in nude, and it's rubbish, how the F*** am I suppose to line my water line with a chunky liner... ergh my search for nude liner continues. Probably I will get a lighter skintone concealer stick.
• I also got the Rimmel EyeBrow pencil in black brown which also an experiment for me since I never really put stuff on my brows except gel. Sometimes my makeup look unfinished and at first I tried using the MAC Showstopper shadow, and it's great. However now I can really try the strong brows look. I use this for special occasion or when for my makeup I chose to kick up a notch on my brows, and top it off with the dark shadows. 
• The other eyeliners (N'7 Metallics and Revlon Charcoal) are for fun! and I love that I can try a lot a new eye looks.

These are all the swatches.

Eye liner swatch, top from left : N'7 Metallic set; Emerald, Amethyst, Copper, Bronze, Gold
Bottom from left: Rimmel Soft KohlPure White, Revlon Colorstay Charcoal, Revlon Grow Luscious Expresso

Eye liner swatch, top from left : N'7 Metallic set; Emerald, Amethyst, Copper, Bronze, Gold
Bottom from left: Rimmel Soft Kohl Pure White, Revlon Colorstay Charcoal, Revlon  Grow Luscious Expresso

As you could see the colour turn-out is very good especially the Expresso from Revlon. 

Okay that's been all. I can't wait to get more stuff as we enter the new year and approaching the Spring.
I did eye on some stuff I just got to have sometime to have enough money and all.
Now I am waiting for my new study lamp which is in daylight cool white, since my current light is warm white *practically yellow*, the yellow is too bright and makes my eyes sore and went bloodshot after doing makeup.
So maybe after I got ne lighting sorted I can do makeup tutorial. I always been wanting to do the brows stuff, although it's very simple, I still want to share that. Also my new skincare routing. So wait for it guys!

Till next time,

farhanaJ