Fall/Winter Empties + short reviews. L'Occitane, Missha and The Body Shop

I hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday! I can't believe it's already going to be 2015 soon! Time sure flies!

I'm surprised with how much I managed to use up these past couple of months. I also can't believe I managed to keep all the containers for so long.

These posts will be few and far between, but let's take a look at what I managed to use up from the past couple months!

Etude House: Goodbye Pore Ever: Pore Primer Essence Review

I've actually had this particular product for a while now. I just never got to reviewing it till now unfortunately. 

I really like Etude House. I only have one lipstick of theirs, so majority of the products I've tried are skincare items. 

So when I began caring for my skin around last year, one of the biggest things I didn't like about my face was my pores. Granted, they're not as big as others, but enough that I get a really oily face. 

A friend of my recommended I check out their pore cleansing line to help combat my pores. 

As you know, I have tried their pore toner and I love it! But you can check out the other products they have here.

Simple Holiday Nails

Well hey there everyone! I'm back! I had a crazy semester. Probably the busiest one I've ever had! But I finished my last final of the year on Tuesday, so I'm back to my regular scheduled blog postings.

When I finished my finals, the first thing I did was paint my nails. I worked my butt off all semester, time to paint my nails and relax! But also, once January rolls around, I'll once again be too busy to paint them. Have to enjoy them while I can!

I'm not an expert nail artist by any means. I'm still in the process of trying to stead my left hand when I paint my right hand. But baby steps right?

As you can see, it's very very simple. And honestly, you don't even need to wear it just for Christmas.

Sephora (Chloe Perfume) and The Face Shop Haul

Why, hello there. Sorry I've been MIA for the past couple of weeks. School started again, and it's looking to be my busiest and most difficult.

Even when I'm busy, it hasn't stopped me from buying a few things here and there. I hardly shop at Sephora, but they had this limited edition Chloe perfume set I just couldn't pass up.

The roller ball set is only available online through Sephora, and currently it is on sale for $36.

CrySense Hair Organic Essence by Palan Cosmetic review

Hello everyone!

I have a review from the Memebox Global # 12! About time I start pumping out reviews from them though huh? I haven't had a chance to really use a lot of the products from my first box, the Luckybox #5. Most of the products from that box are facial, and I'm still in the midst of using up my current moisturizers.

This Memebox is perfect for me, because starting this summer, I have started putting more time and effort towards my hair. I've always used conditioner after shampoo, but recently I've purchased some hair masks and sprays to prevent damage when I use my hair straightener.

When I saw this Hair Organic Essence in the box, I was so excited to use it!

I've been using it consistently for the past month, and I feel I've adequately used it enough to write a review.

Summer Empties! Hair, body and skincare products

I can't believe it's the end of August already! This summer just flew by.

I'm not good with writing empties posts, simply because I never save up the bottles of the products I use up. I also throw out my empties almost immediately, so I never remember to keep them either.

But anyway, I managed to accumulate a few empties through the summer. Unfortunately, I threw out a few things already, but I still managed to keep most of them. This includes empties for June and July also! I definitely brought way too many products with me this summer, as I didn't even touch a lot of my back ups.

I'll start with the hair products:

Memebox: Superbox #46 IOPE Box 1 Unboxing

I'm developing a problem you guys... I have Memebox acquisition syndrome. I can't stop buying these boxes!

I'm eyeing the Lipstick Superbox right now. I received an email a couple weeks back from Memebox, asking me to take a survey for them. A few of my suggestions included an all IOPE box and all lipstick or lips box. BEHOLD!! Memebox answered and here I am throwing my money at the screen.

I purchased IOPE Box 1 instead of the 2nd one, because I already have their BB Cushion. Also the shade would have been too light for my skin. Back in high school, I purchased a lighter colours shade once... it was not a good time.

But anyway, let's take a look at what I received!

Mint Julips Lip Scrub Review from Lush Cosmetics

Aaand I'm back! I'm typing this post whilst at work! Shhh... I have some down time right now, so at least I'm staying busy!

Sticking to the lip review theme from before, I finally bought the famous Lush lip scrub!
For those of you not familiar with Lush, they're a company that makes products completely by hand, and using/buying ingredients that "do not conduct or commission tests on animals and testing products on humans".
They also only use vegetarian products and some of them, including the lip scrub is gluten free!

Previously, I had only ever tried their bath products. Bath bombs are good, but I especially love The Comforter bubble bar. SO MANY BUBBLES!! I'll have to purchase it again sometime-and you should try it too!

I know what some of you may be thinking, 'sugar scrub? Could have just made one at home!' Yes, that is true. I definitely could have. Considering how I've only used this a handful of times, I should have made one myself. But I can't make my lip scrub smell as good!
At the time when I was in the store, I was planning on buying bubble gum. A friend of mine recommended that one to me.  But in the end, mint chocolate smelt the most appealing.

So let's see if it was worth the purchase!

Memebox Global #12 Unboxing!

Hello everyone!
I am back with another Memebox haul, and I'm super excited about it! I've already begun using some of the products.

I have acquired an unhealthy addiction to this site. I'm always tempted to buy the new released they come out with. The new Iope Superbox, I want it so damn badly!! Someone please restrain me, or I WILL spend my entire paycheck on this website.

But I mean, can you blame me? The boxes are so affordable, you get at least 3 full sized items and deluxe samples... The box is just great!

Anyway, let's take a look at what I received from this box:

Smith's Rosebud Salve Review

Hello hello! I've been rather M.I.A lately. I went on a week vacation at the end of June, and when I came back, the internet was down >< story of my life.
On the bright side, I was able to watch the Canada Day fireworks from my window at home. Hope everyone had a good Canada Day and 4th of July!

On my vacation, I went on a little shopping rampage. Mostly for dried food, though I did make some really exciting purchases!
One of them, being Smith's Rosebud Salve. I've heard a lot of good things about this product. I don't have a Sephora back in my hometown or anywhere close to where I'm working this summer either. I stopped by Sephora while on my vacation, and I decided to pick this lip salve up.

Though I'm not really a huge fan of lip balms where I have to use my fingers to apply, (less sanitary) but with everyone recommending this, I figured I'd give it a try. 

Memebox - Luckybox #5 Unboxing

I'm about 2 weeks late with this post, as I received this package a while ago. But better late than never right?

I hadn't heard of Memebox until end of April or so. I read about it from a fellow blogger. I love the concept of receiving a number of different skincare and makeup items to try out. Similar to Glossybox or Ipsy, Birchbox etc. I find Memebox to be far more superior. Not only do you get some full sized items and deluxe samples, all products are solely Korean. 

Granted, you are paying a lot more than $10 for Ipsy or Birchbox, Memebox gets you more 'bang' for your buck. You also have the chance to choose which box you want and interests you the most, whereas the other monthly boxes, you are subscribed to a monthly service and some of them are a hit and a miss. 

Anyway, onto Memebox haul. I ended up ordering Luckybox #5. 

Let's take a further look at my goodies! 

Broadway - imPress Press-on Manicure Nail Review

Hello hello! As you may know, I have settled into my new place for the summer. Work hasn't been too busy, and I have been shopping way too much for my own good. When the days are slow, I browse different clothing websites. I buy more than I can use, but regardless, I still buy more and just hoard it in my room. Eventually, I will become a hoarder. A crazy cat lady AND a hoarder. 

Well anyway, I signed up with this community called influenster. It's a website where a variety of people post their reviews and experiences on different products. Every time you write a post, you build up points towards not only your social media presence, but also particular badges you can unlock on your profile. The more reviews you write, the higher your influence will be. 

I was lucky enough to be eligible for the imPress Manicures by Broadway. They sent me two of their products to review.

The imPress Manicures boast:

• No drying time
• Superior lasting shine
• Easy removal
• Lasts up to a week
• Salon results

Let's see if they do just that! 

Kao - Essential Damage-Care Nuancy Airy Hair Mask

I never really bothered too much about caring for my hair. Not until I had a lot of dandruff, especially during the winter, and my hair became frizzy and static. I have yet to try hair serums, but I have been addicted to this hair mask!

I had read about this mask about 5 years ago on Xiaxue’s blog. If you don’t know who she is, she’s a really famous Singaporean blogger. She’s not as frequent with her posts anymore, and the brands she endorses don’t interest me as much, but when I read about the hair mask, I knew right then I wanted it. At the time, I was not an avid online shopper. So anything I wanted overseas, the best place to search was the over-priced Asian stores in Toronto. Luckily! My Aunt brought over the Essential Rich Primer hair mask for me to try, and it was love from then on. 

Now, I'm not quite sure what 'nuance airy' is supposed to mean.... the definition of nuance is "a subtle difference". So... a subtle difference in airy hair?

This information taken from Yesstyle says:

Intensive hair mask repairs and smoothens damaged and ragged cuticles with ultra-moisturizing shea butter, milk protein and high-purity honey. Hair attains unbelievable body and bounce after every use. After cleaning hair with shampoo, rinse and towel dry hair. Apply a generous amount of hair mask onto damp hair and leave on for 5 minutes before rinsing off. Use 2-3 times a week for healthy hair. Best for limp and fine hair types

Also contains ‘Heat protective ingredient’ to penetrate deeply into damaged tips, repair hair with heat damages brought by dryer or curler.

Contains Rose essence

Packaging
I don't usually like pink, but you have to admit the packaging is very neat. It's a pretty durable container too. I wrapped this in a bag and threw it in my suitcase for my summer move. It has faired quite well. I like that it's small, so it's easy to travel with, but on the other hand, I don't use this mask as often as I should, because there's 200g and in the instructions, they tell you to generous amounts.

Scent
I could go on about how AMAZING this smells! It's a light mix between honey and roses. It lasts for quite a while also. If you shower at night, like myself, then the scent goes away once you wake up, but I can see if lasting a while if you shower in the morning.

Product
Now, onto the stuff that actually matters, does the product work? Does it do what it advertises?
To give you a better idea of my hair, I'm Chinese, so it's limp, straight, no volume and I have never dyed it. I've never had split ends before either, so my hair is in pretty good shape. The only issue is that it's really frizzy and in the winter, it gets a lot of static. I've been using an iron to straighten my hair when it gets longer, and so I've been getting a lot of static from that also.

Anyhow, the product is very creamy. As mentioned in the instructions, you do have to use a bit in order to cover most of your hair. Although, it is most recommended to use on the tips of your hair, to help with split ends, I sometimes use this as a substitute for conditioner. I want all of my hair to be smooth, not just the tips!
Some people may not like coating of conditioner or product that stays in their hair once they rinse it off, but I quite like it. This coating makes my hair feel so incredibly smooth. After the first use, the difference is profound.

I use this mask sparingly, simply because there isn't much. If I were to use this every few days, I would probably use this up within a month or so.
I haven't tried a lot of hair masks, but so far this one hasn't given me any reason to find something else. I will continue buying this until it is discontinued. I may try a few others here and there, but for the most part, it'll be a staple for me.

Final thoughts
I really like this hair mask. I'll have to find the ingredients list, because unfortunately, the back is in all Japanese. Regardless, I love almost everything about it. My hair is smooth immediately after I use it, the smell is incredibly pleasing, and my hair feels less flat. Not so much 'airy' but not as limp as it usually is.
So I definitely would give this product a try.

I purchased this from yesstyle.ca for $15 CAD

Do you have a favourite hair mask? Have you thought about trying this Nuancy Airy Hair Mask?

Sasa, The Face Shop and Bath and Body Works Candle Haul

Hello everyone! 

I just moved into my summer workplace, and I didn't have internet for a week, so I couldn't post last Sunday. I also didn't have water for a couple days... really makes you appreciate the little things. 

But anyway, I am back with internet! 

When I was packing for my move, I tried to stock up on as much as I could. My second suitcase is filled with my backups. 4 boxes of The Face Shop cotton pads, night creams, day creams, serums, so much! I'm surprised I managed to fit as much as I did. 

The few things I bought/ordered:

Etude House: Wonder Pore Freshener Toner Review

Ok everyone, I'm making a big statement here. I have found my holy grail of toners. 

Wonder Pore! I purchased the 500ml bottle, and I do not regret it!

Avene: Eau Thermale: Thermal Spring Water

I've become a little obsessed with facial sprays/mists these past few months. This is only my second purchase, but I have my eye on a few from Sephora and one from Laneige.

When I was at my local drugstore, I decided to pick up a facial spray from Avene.

I went with the 50ml travel size first, since I wasn't sure how I would like it. 

Skin79 - Wrinkletox Collagen Serum Review

Hello, hello! 

I am back with another serum review! This is the 2nd bottle from the set of three. 

From the New Turn Therapy Special Set from Skin79.

If you haven't read my first review of the 'Repair Amino-Acid Serum', check it out here! 

Beyond - Cream Puff - Rice Milk Foam Cleanser review

I had never heard of Beyond, which is a Korean skincare company until I saw the products being sold. The brand was established in 2005, so it is relatively new and somewhat unknown. 

In Korea, the brand is just referred to as "Beyond". But in North America, it is, "Beyond Fruits & Passion", Fruits & Passion was the store I purchased it from. Though it has since closed down and The Face Shop opened in its place. (no complaints there!)

But since I always have my eye out for Korean skincare/cosmetics, I opted to try this out. I have cleansers already, but really, more the merrier... right?

I went with the Rice Milk Foam cleanser as it advertised in big letters, "Rice smoothes and relaxes your stressed skin"

As a student, anything that claims to relax stressed skin is something I want! Get it on my face!! De-stress me please!

Let's see if it actually does what it claims

March Empties!

Alright, so I didn't end up using up all of these products in March. But I had to accumulate, since it takes me a while to get through products. So technically, these are empties between January - March.

From left to right:

1. My Beauty Diary - Strawberry Yogurt Amino Acid Cleanser

- this was alright. Better than the cleanser I'm using now. Has some beads in it, but didn't clean as well as my Body Shop exfoliator. It smells nice, but really really artificial strawberries. 

2. Skin79 -  Repair Amino-Acid Serum

- a review of this will be coming shortly!

3. The Body Shop - Satsuma Body Butter

- You guys should know by now, how much I love body butters. This was the first body butter scent I had ever tried from TBS. I used to love it. But half way through using it, I got tired of the smell. Started to smell bad to me. I got this free of purchase, but I wouldn't buy it anymore.

4. The Body Shop - Passion Fruit Body Butter 

- you can read my review here 

5. Missha - Super Aqua Anti-trouble Toner

- you can read my review here

6. Oral B - Gum dental floss

- I love this stuff! It's not the regular wax floss, my teeth are too tight for those to fit through. 

7. The Body Shop - Vitamin E Nourishing Night Cream

- you can read my review of it here
I definitely liked this. But I have a few other facial creams I have since purchased so I will not be repurchasing this for a while. If you have dry skin, I do recommend you try this. 

I don't usually go through products quickly, so I'm surprised I went through as much as I did. Well this is considered a lot for me anyway. I don't think I'll have a new empties until mid/end of summer. 

What products have you used up this month? Do you plan on repurchasing any of them?

Yesstyle, The Face Shop Skincare Haul

I always have my eye out for things I could try. This usually means buying more than I can use. But I mean, if it's on sale and it intrigues me... chances are I'm buying it. I just can't help it!

I've already incorporated a few of these products into my current skincare routine. I can't wait to write reviews for them!

From left to right:

1. The Face Shop - Mild Cotton Pads

2. The Face Shop - Chia Seed Water Essence

- it's not really an eye cream, more of an eye serum

3. Christian Dior - Hydra Life Pro-Youth Sorbet Creme

- cannot WAIT to use this!

4. The Face Shop - Raspberry Roots Fitting Up Essence

5. Missha - Super Aqua - Ultra Water Full Cream

Yes, I have bought quite a number of The Face Shop items. They recently opened a store in the Toronto Eaton Centre Mall, and every time I'm in Toronto, I always stop by. Now if only they'll open an Etude House and Laneige, I'll be all set! 

Speaking of Laneige, USA Target sells their products! I cannot begin to express my jealousy... come to Canada soon please!

I also need to stop buying face cream. I just started using the Missha one pictured. I still have a day cream I'm in the process of using up. 

Everything was purchased from either Yesstyle or The Face Shop.

Anyway, what have you purchased lately?

Skin79: Repair Amino-Acid Serum Review

Originally, this serum came in a pack of 3. Called The New Turn Therapy Set from Skin79. Which is another Korean skincare company. Yes, I have been going a little nuts with their skincare items. But what can I say, their products are good!

Not to mention, I bought this serum set for the most amazing price!

The Body Shop - Limited Edition Papaya Body Butter Review

It figures my new found favourite body butter scents, happen to be limited edition. I can only buy them once a year.

Well, I know what I'll be stocking up on come Christmas!

Shiseido Perfect Rouge - PK 249 Swatch + Review

Over the past couple years, I took a liking to lipsticks. I have a handful I want to purchase but as I don't wear them that often, I've been refraining from purchasing too many at a time. I try to save it for end of my school semesters, so it feels like I'm rewarding myself. And within those few months, try to use up the ones I have.

Back in December, I purchased this Shiseido Perfect Rouge lipstick. The shade is PK 249. It looks like a really bright pink in the photos, but it's a lot less bright when on the lips.

I read a number of reviews, and every review I found was positive.

The Body Shop - Passion Fruit Body Butter Review

Passion Fruit is a limited edition Body butter. So unfortunately, it is no longer available in stores, or else I'd tell you all to go buy one right now! This is by far my new favourite scent at the store.

The Body Shop Body Butter Haul

Oh hey! How are things? Long time no post, I know.

Well I'm back today with another review! I'm a fan of The Body Shop. The first brand I tried when I first started researching about skincare, and I still use their products.
But the one thing I love from them the most- are their Body Butters.

A couple weeks ago, TBS had a 50% off all body butter sale.

From left to right. 

1. Passion Fruit 

2. Papaya

3. Blueberry

4. Vitamin e

Last winter, I used the Vitamin E Body butter, because it is supposed to be the most moisturizing. And it is good. In the winters, my hips and back are the driest. And since everything was 50% off, I thought I'd try a few other scents.

The first three are limited editions that the store only releases about once a year. Passion fruit- smells freakin amazing! I had never tried it before, and I regret not buying more! 

Papaya - I remember purchasing this many years ago for my Mother, for her birthday. I never really used it, but now that I have a love for their Body Butters, now is as good as time as any to try it. 

Blueberry is a restock. LOVE this scent also. I have to say though, Passion Fruit may be my new favourite scent. I'm still kicking myself for now buying more when I had the chance!

Have you guys tried any of the body butters before? What are your favourite scents?

Regular price = $20

Purchased for $10 each

2014 Beauty Haul!

Hello everyone!

How was everyone's Christmas and New Year? Or more importantly, how are your resolutions coming along? I didn't make any this year, because I knew I break them within the week.
Though I have told myself to stop buying lotions and lipsticks because I have way too many. Granted, my haul, I have quite a bit of lotions pictured, but some were gifts. Well one of them. But I did receive a handful of hand creams yesterday. That'll be for another post, I suppose.

School has started, so I am once again quite busy. And by busy, I mean I have been procrastinating. And playing video games. See why I don't make resolutions?

All the things purchased were around Christmas time or Boxing day, when all the big sales start.

I know, I definitely purchased a lot. I also realized I forgot to take pictures of a few other products I purchased.