Clinique Superbalanced Makeup Foundation : {Review}

Clinique Superbalanced Makeup

Shade: 09 Sand (N) *I'm NC35 in MAC

Size: 30 ml (1 fl oz)

Price: $25 CAD

Where to buy: sears.ca (clinique)

Rating: 4/5

Likes: The finish it gives. Didn't break me out or irritate my skin

Dislikes: No pump

 

Their Claim: The smart makeup. Liquid foundation. Provides moisture and absorbs oil when and where needed with adjustable coverage that is silky upon application. Oil-free formula provides natural skin finish. Apply starting in center of face and blend outward with fingertips. Can be worn in the immediate eye area. For seamless look, dampen fingertips and blend edges. Moderate coverage. Balances combination skin, Long wearing.

Suitable for: Very Dry to Dry, Dry Combination, and Oily Skin *I'm Dry to Normal

My Experience 

Wearing Clinique Superbalanced (09 Sand)

** I've used this foundation for over a year**  

This used to be my favourite foundation, up until last year. The first time i tried Clinique about 8 years ago in the UK. I thought it was an amazing product, but i didn't purchase it when i came back to Canada because at the time i did not wear foundation. When i started wearing foundation, i looked all over to try and get a foundation that matched my skintone; i think that was the hardest part. Foundations were either too light or too dark for me, it was very disappointing. I didn't think Clinique was available here, until i went to the mall one year and saw their kiosk in The Bay. I was so excited, i immediately went over to get matched- and they actually had a shade for me! A shade that matched me; it wasn't to light or too dark; it wasn't too punk or too yellow; it was just right.

The foundation itself is a nice consistency that is medium coverage but buildable. It's easy to apply with either your fingers, a sponge or a foundation brush; I've tried all three and prefer using a foundation brush. I find that this foundation is long lasting, stays put, and leaves me looking flawless. This does not dry out my skin, nor does it irritate my sensitive skin. I've fallen asleep with it on, and it never once gave me pimples or breakouts. The only thing i would change about this foundation is to add a pump instead of pouring the foundation out of the bottle. It's not super thick but it's not runny either, so when it's finishing i have to spend a bit more time trying to get the foundation out of the bottle. This isn't a major problem for me, because what i do is leave the foundation upside down so it's easier to get to.

Verdict

Re-purchase? Yes!

This has been a favourite foundation of mines. The only reason why i stopped using this foundation was to try other foundations to see if they are any better. I bought MAC studio fix fluid foundation because i heard so many good things about MAC Cosmetics, which i'll be doing a review on soon.

So which foundation do i think is BETTER? 
Check out my upcoming reviews (^__^)

Nyx Studio Liquid Liners : {Review}

Product: Nyx Studio Liquid Liners
Colours: Extreme Blue (SLL 101), Extreme Gold (SLL 107), Extreme Silver (SLL 106)

Size: 0.19 oz (5.5 ml)

Price: Approx.  $5 CAD/each

Where to buy: nyxcosmetics.com

Rating for Silver: 3/5

Rating for  Blue: 4.5/5 

Rating for Gold:  3/5

Likes: I really like the Extreme Blue, but haven't been able to get the other colours to work for me

Dislikes: Hard to remove, burns if it gets in your eyes 

Their Claim: Transform your look in seconds with this super-pigmented eye liner that highlights eyes with an electrifying stroke of color. The fine tip allows for precision application, and can be used to create lines of varying thickness. Go subtle or go gaga. Available in 12 scintillating shades.

Extreme Gold, Extreme Blue, Extreme Silver

My Experience

** I've had these liners for about 6 months**

Of the three colours, my favourite is the Extreme Blue. It's such a pretty vibrant colour that brightens up so many looks. However, the Gold and Silver haven't worked out so well for me so far. I've tried a few times but i just don't like the way they look so i stick with wearing the Blue; especially when i'm feeling for a pop of colour. The best way i like to wear the blue is when i'm wearing a neutral or light eye shadow, then i apply this liner and BAM! My eyes pop and look amazing *yeaaaaaaah!*

Verdict

The bright colours seem to work better for me. Extreme Blue is great when i need a pop of colour but not over dramatic. It's easy to apply, and i can go for very thin lines or thicker lines with more application. This is my favourite liquid liner ever. They are very affordable and of such good quality. Why pay more when NYX does the same job?
A word of caution: Please avoid getting these liners in your eyes because they burn like a MOTHA MOTHA!

Re-purchase? I would re-purchase Extreme Blue, and I will definitely try the other bright colours in this line, but i wouldn't try the gold or silver again.

{Review} Laneige Power Essential Skin Refiner

Laneige Moisture Power Essential Skin Refiner (Toner)

Size: 200 ml

Price: Approx. $26 CAD

Where to buy: S. Korea

Rating: 4/5

Likes: Almost everything ^-^

Dislikes: Not sold locally. A bit pricey. 

** I've been using this toner since last year  along with the Laneige Multi Cleanser** 

 

Their Claim: Moisturizing skin refiner with purifying and softening effect for clear skin. Removes dried keratin and purifies the skin for clear and transparent skin. Bio Dusali, extracted from fermented seaweed with strong energy of life, supplies energy to the skin and promotes keratin turnover, while the Hyacinth extracts purify the skin from heavy metal, smog, and other harmful materials to leave the skin moist and transparent. Exfoliating enzymes gently remove the dead skin cells with less irritation. Skin-nourishing royal jelly extracts and sugar cane extracts refine dry and rough skin for moist and healthy skin.

My experience: What can i say about this toner? Where do i start! I love this toner. It truly is moisturizing and gentle enough to not irritate my sensitive skin. It comes in such a cute bottle that looks so sleek and stylish; not overly dressed up, but rather simple and chic. It's a good size bottle (200ml) which lasts a long time, as little goes a long way. (I've used a bottle for well over 6 months and still there's a lot left).

As for the smell, It's light and very pleasant. I can't pinpoint what it smells like, but it's a very light scent. I do not smell or feel any alcohol in this product which is really awesome for me.
I use this just as i would any toner/skin refiner. I dab some on a cotton pad and gentle cleanse my face with it. After i'm done my face is left feeling moisturized, soft and clean. This is by far the best toner/skin refiner i've used so far. I love almost everything about it; except the fact that it's not available locally, and that it's a bit expensive. Other than that, i have no complaints.

Verdict: The Laneige Moisture Power Essential Skin Refiner is a great buy. It does exactly what it says it will. It cleans my face very well, and leaves it soft and moisturized NOT irritated. I have re-purchased, and will continue to do so.

A look at what's coming up (reviews+swatches)

What to look forward to this month?
I'll be doing more reviews, as well as swatches & more FOTDs! *yeaaaah*

Upcoming Posts:
- Manly 120 eye shadow palette: swatches + review
- NYX studio liquid liners: swatches + review
- Laneige moisture power essential skin refiner (toner): review
+ many more...

{Review} Laneige Multi Cleanser

Laneige Multi Cleanser (beautystyleaddict.blogspot.com)

Laneige Multi Cleanser

Size: 180 ml

Price: $25 CAD

Where to buy: S. Korea

Rating: 5/5

Likes: everything! ^-^

Dislikes: probably the fact that it's not sold locally :(

** I've been using this cleanser since last year **

Laneige Multi Cleanser (beautystyleaddict.blogspot.com)

Their Claim: A new 4-in-1 cleanser removes makeup, removes sunscreen, exfoliates and cleanses at once. Micro-sized dense foam removes makeup completely leaving fresh feeling. Mild plant-based cleansing ingredients and Papain enzymes, the exfoliating enzymes extracted from papaya fruit, remove makeup completely and exfoliate for smoother skin. Completely removes base makeup, such as sun cream, BB cream, and foundation, as well as color makeup.

Laneige Multi Cleanser (beautystyleaddict.blogspot.com)

My experience: I absolutely love the multi cleanser. It has a pleasant citric scent, that is quite refreshing in the morning. The first time i used it i was very suprised at the fact that it really does remove makeup! It has these tiny little exfoliating particles that feels really nice on the skin; it does not irritate my sensitive skin. And not only does it remove makeup, but it's also very cleansing and moisturizing-- it does not leave my face feeling dry after. My face just feels soft, i feel awake, my skin appears to be glowing everytime i use it (or maybe it's my imagination lol).
Verdict: The Laneige Multi Cleanser is everything i want and need in a cleanser; it is worth every penny! I would re-purchase this over and over again without hesitation!

{Review} Wet n Wild Lipstick 505A

**Apparently this is supposed to be a dupe of MAC Rocking Chick lipstick from their Barbie collection**

 
Wet n Wild Silk Finish Lipstick 
Colours: tested 505A (Light Berry Frost) 
Size: 0.13 oz
Price: around $2 CAD
Where to buy: walmart, shopper's drug mart
Rating: 2.5/5

Their Claim: enriched with conditioning ingredients of Vitamins A & E and Aloe Vera for moist-looking lips.
Likes: the colour is really nice ^-^
Dislikes: the smell, sticky feeling, not moisturizing.

My Experience: I've always been more of a lip gloss person but i wanted to venture more into the lipstick world. I wanted to try different brands especially lines that are more affordable. This is why i chose to try the Wet n Wild brand. Upon opening the lipstick the first thing i noticed was the smell. I wouldn't say it smells bad, but it didn't smell good either. Secondly, on application i didn't feel this lipstick had a silk finish and it was not moisturizing enough. I have to apply my lip balm before wearing this lipstick to prevent it from drying my lips. The only thing i liked was the colour. It is such nice colour-- i really like how cute it is .^-^. This is the only reason why it got a 2.5/5 rating.   

wearing Wet n Wild lipstick in 505A (light berry frost)

  
My Verdict: I think the colour is really nice but it's not very moisturizing and i don't like the smell of this lipstick.
Re-Purchase: I would only consider repurchasing if i can't find this colour in a more moisturizing lipstick line.

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{Review} Avon Solutions Moisture Shield

Avon Solutions Moisture Shield Tinted SPF 15

Size: 1.7 fl. oz. (50 ml)
Price:  Approx. $6.99 - $10 CAD
Where to buy: Avon.ca
Re-Purchase: No
Rating: 2.5/5

Their Claim: Gives skin a sun-kissed look plus sun protection. Increases skin’s ability to retain moisture. 
Likes: Light coverage. Glowy finish. Sun protection SPF 15.
Dislikes: Gets a bit drying after awhile for me, due to the alcohol in it. Alcohol smell.

My Experience: I first tried this product quite a number of years ago when i bought it from an avon catalog. I wasn't sure if it would work for me but it did. When i applied it, it gave me light coverage (which is enough for me) and left my face glowy. Sometimes i apply it with my fingers or foundation brush. I usually wear this product alone during the summer months when it's hot instead of applying foundation. It's a liquid consistency, which blends well and absorbs easily into the skin. However, i found this to be a bit drying on my face especially during the winter months. I believe this is due to the alcohol in it. Overall i would not repurchase.

{Review} Skin Food Peach Sake Pore Serum

Skin Food Peach Sake Pore Serum: Cute packaging ^_^

SkinFood Peach Sake Pore Serum
Size: 45ml
Price: approx. $15 CAD
Where to buy: S. Korea
Re-Purchase: No
Rating: 2.5/5

Their Claim: Containing rice sake, peach extract rich in vitamins A and C, and silica powder, this soft essence minimizes shine and the appearance of pores.
FYI: The Skin Food brand  is a South Korean brand that was established since 1957. It is a very popular line in South Korean and worldwide.

Easy to use pump to dispense serum without the mess.

Likes: Smells yummy, easy to use pump and absorbs easily.
Dislikes: Not very moisturizing for me.
Suggestion(s): For oily skin type or those having issues with large pores.

My Experience: I initially purchased this item back in August 2010 after hearing so many raves about it. Since i needed to start a skin care routine i decide to give this product a try. I was really excited when it arrived in the mail, and i couldnt wait to try it on my face *hehehe*.
I really like the cute packaging and easy to use pump, and also the yummy smell of the serum.  The serum is a good consistency, not runny but not too thick. It's easy to spread and absorbs fast. It also has a bit of shimmer in the product but it's not overpowering.

Skin Food Peach Sake Pore Serum: Consistency is not runny nor too thick.

 Sounds like a great product right? However, i felt this product did not moisturize my skin enough for me. Then again, it's intended to be used prior to moisturizer so it's not necessarily for moisturizing on its own. It's suppose to minimize your pores and shine for better looking skin. I don't think this product was for me because i don't have much concerns with pores and i believe this product is more for oily skin -- i have normal skin (normal to dry in winter). Better luck next time for me *sobs a little*

{Review} Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mask

 
Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Pore Clay Mask
Size: 100ml
Price:  $21.91 CAD (prices may vary depending on where you're buying)
Where to buy: S. Korea
Rating: 4/5

Their Claim:
This was hard to get as it was written in korean. Anyways here's a little bit about what the product claims.
* No artificial ingredients or preservatives.
* Contains Scoria and green complex
* Absorbs sebum & Cleans pores

Likes: Basically everything. It's easy to apply, it leaves my skin feeling soft and clean.
Dislikes: It was difficult to remove, but it wasn't necessarily that easy either. It just took a little extra washing to get it all off.

My Experience: I had purchase some facial products because to be truly honest, i've never had a skincare routine (bad, bad, i know right?).
So anyways i bought a laneige set along with some skinfood products, and in the package i  received some samples, including the Jeju Volcanic Clay Mask by Innisfree. I wasn't sure what to expect with this mask since i've never tried Innisfree products before nor have i tried a volcanic clay mask. The sample package had enough to do my entire face AND my mom's face as well. It felt nice going on my face and then i washed it off after i felt the mask was dry all over (approx 15 or 20mins). When i washed it off, my face felt so nice! I really liked it. My face looked so clean and glowy-- not to mention noticeably softer. I couldn't stop touching my face and looking at myself in the mirror lol (obsess much?).

My Verdict: I was pleased with the Innisfree Jeju Volcanic Clay Mask. It left my face clean, glowing and feeling softer. Although i haven't tried too much facial mask, this one is my current favourite!

Re-Purchase: Yes!

{Review} CHI Silk Infusion

CHI Silk Infusion Silk Reconstructing Complex
Size: 6 fl. oz. (150 ml)
Price:  $14.99 USD (prices range from $20-$34 CAD depending on where you're buying from)
Where to buy: Folica.com, Walmart, Shopper's Drug Mart, Rexall, Zehrs
Rating: 5/5

Their Claim: CHI Transformation System Silk Infusion helps strengthen your hair, providing incredible softness, manageability and shine without any build-up. Silk reconstructing complex no pH. Alcohol free. Rich leave in treatment enriched with pure silk and wheat and soy proteins. Ceramic heat will insure deep penetration of silk proteins.
My Likes: Basically everything.
My Dislikes: well...the smell reminds me of cologne which i'm not particularly fond of.

My Experience: I first started using CHI Silk Infusion about 4 years ago after my inlaw introduced it to me and i was amazed at how wonderful this product was. After applying CHI, my hair felt so soft and silky without making it feel heavy. I always apply this product before flat ironing my hair to protect it from heat damage. This is the only product i use in my hair and i noticed my hair has become healthier and it has helped with hair breakage as well.
Now after finishing my first bottle, I couldn't find it anywhere in store (i live in the countryside *boooo*) until i found it on Folica.com where i purchased it for $14.99 USD for a 6oz bottle when i had purchased my solia tourmaline flat iron (will do a review on the flat iron soon). I bought the CHI in october, two years ago and i still have that same bottle that is just finishing. I didn't use it much in the beginning but then increase my usage when i stopped using other products in my hair. That bottle has lasted a long time eh... That's what i love about this product; it works AND a little goes a long way, so a 6oz bottle will last you quite some time.
I love this product so much that I introduced it to my mom and she's inlove with it as well--- and she loves it so much that she's also introduced it to her friends *hehehe*

My Verdict: Chi Silk Infusion is a really good product. It does what it claims. It's well worth the price.
Re-Purchase: Again and again!

{Review} Clinique High Impact Mascara

**Picture courtesy of clinique.ca**

Clinique High Impact Mascara

Colours: Black/Brown, & Black ((I'm testing BLACK))

Size: 8g

Price: $18 CAD

Where to buy: Clinique.ca, Sears.ca, The Bay

Beauty Rating: 1/5

Their Claim: Kicks up the volume and length of each and every lash for a look that's lusher, plusher, bolder. Pure, deep colour only adds to the impact. Wear it once and you'll feel naked without it.
Likes: Made lashes look bolder and darker (but not anymore than other mascaras)
Dislikes: Felt heavy, not waterproof, expensive


My Experience: To begin, i should mention that i already have naturally long lashes and have been using the Avon waterproof mascara before i began testing this product.
The Clinique mascara did not do anything more for me than other previously used mascaras. It felt like any other mascara i've used before except this one felt a lot heavy on my eyelashes. The consistency is a lot thicker but it did not make my lashes any longer than other mascaras. The only thing the this mascara did was make my lashes feel heavy which was really annoying and uncomfortable. What i also noticed was that if i yawn or if my eyes become watery the mascara gets in my eyes and it sortof stings/burns my eyes arghhh!
I have to say that the avon waterproof mascara i use is significantly cheaper than this; the avon mascara is about $4 verses $18 for the clinique. Really disappointing.


My Verdict: It was not worth the money for me. Too expensive and doesnt live up to its claims.
Re-purchase: No

{Review} Alexandria Face Wax Strips

Alexandria Face Wax Strips
Size: 24 strips (12 double sided)
Price: $6.49
Where to buy: Shopper's Drug Mart

Information: Stay hair free for weeks at a time. Wax strips contain Vitamin E and aloe. They are ideal for beginners and seasoned users alike, and perfect for travel. Included with all waxes is a waxing oil to remove excess wax residue, containing almond, apricot, lavender, tea tree oil and other natural ingredients.


Their Claim: Quick and easy method of removing unwanted hair at the root. Hair free for weeks.

My Verdict: I wanted to try to wax my eyebrows so i used this product to see how well they'd remove the hair. I have to say i was VERY disappointed in this product. It barely removed any hair. Sadly this product did absolutely nothing for me. The only thing i liked about this product was the fact that it's eco friendly.
Re-purchase: I will NOT purchase this product again.

((More pics below))

The finishing wipes that were included with the wax strips

The wax strips (double sided)

{Review} Avon Mini Wash-off waterproof Mascara

 












Avon Mini Wash-off waterproof Mascara
Colour Tested: ((Black))
Size: .06 oz
Price: Under $2
Where to buy: Avon.ca
Their Claim: Streak-free. Washes away with soap and water. Same great formula you love in a full size, now goes with you..wherever!
My Verdict: I really like this mascara. It's small and cute; i can take it with me on the go. It lengthens my lashes, doesn't flake, and last a long time. Easy to wash off; just use soap and water.
Re-purchase: Yes

**Photographs courtesy of GASAI PHOTOGRAPHY

{Review} Clinique Blushing Blush

Clinique Blushing Blush Powder Blush

Colour Tested: ((Mysterious Mocha))

Size: .21 oz/6 g

Price: $24 CAD

Where to buy: Clinique, Sears, The Bay

Their Claim: Defining moment for cheeks. Silky formula sweeps effortlessly over cheekbones to create a natural look. Fresh, jet-milled colour builds to desired intensity with custom-sculpting brush. Long-wearing. Stays colour-true. Oil-free.

My Verdict: It works and it's reasonably priced. Long lasting wear that does not feel heavy on the face (it's light and silky on the cheeks). Cute packaging; i like the size and the fact that the front of the packages is a mirror. I absolutely love this blush. It does what it's suppose to do and looks great on me. That is why it's my favourite blush so far.

Re-purchase: Yes. (I have already repurchased this product.)

I absolutely love the packaging. Small and cute compact that has a mirror top (check out my reflection *hehehe*)

This is the blush in Mysterious Mocha; such a really beautiful colour. There is also a mirror when you open the compact & it comes with a little blush brush (as seen above). 

**All photographs copyright Gasai Photography & Clinique.com**

{Review} Rimmel SunShimmer Shimmering Maxi Bronzer

Rimmel SunShimmer Shimmering Maxi Bronzer
Colour Tested: 002 Sun Love
Size: 0.59 oz
Price: Under $8
Where to buy: Walmart, Shopper's Drug Mart,
Their Claim: The Rimmel SunShimmer Shimmering Maxi Bronzer is suppose to illuminate the face and body. It's suppose to give an instant natural bronzed sun-kissed glow.

My Experience: In my personal opinion, this is a great bronzer especially for the price. It's a large sized bronzer (0.59 oz) and it's very affordable (being under $8 CAD). You get a large amount of product for a great low price. Some bronzers are much pricier and smaller, that does not deliver close to what this bronzer does. The golden shimmers are just the right amount, that leaves your face looking naturally bronzed and not over done with shimmer. I believe it comes in two shades; i use 002 (Sun Love).
Overall: Affordable product that delivers on quality. Blends easily. Light weight. Long lasting product.
Re-Purchase: Yes i would

{Review} AVON Lip Gloss

I'll be reviewing TWO different line of lip glosses by Avon. 

1. Ultra Color Lip Gloss (first 3 glosses in pic)

2. Glazewear Liquid Lip Color (last 4 glosses in pic)

 Ultra Color Rich Liquid Lip Gloss

Colour(s) Tested: Nude Peach, Spice, Natural Glow

The Good: Rich & lasting colour. Moisturizing and an easy application brush.

The Bad: I don't actually have anything bad to say about this product. I

Overall: 4/5 It's a great lip gloss with a variety of shades. It's easy to apply & leaves lips moisturized without that sticky feeling.

Glazewear Liquid LipColor

Colour(s) Tested:Sweet Coral, Chic Mauve, Tickled Pink, Peach Fizz, (Rave *not shown)
The Good: Rich color and high gloss shine.Comes in a variety of colours.
The Bad:It's glossy and moisturizing but a bit sticky on the lips.
Overall: 3/5 It's an okay lip gloss.




*** Technorati code: HSD9BMYG3JY3

{Review} Wet n Wild eyeliner

While shopping i decided to pick up and try out the Wet n Wild eyeliner in white. I have never used white eyeliner before and wanted to give it a try. I decided to try this brand because it was inexpensive and it's not tested on animals.

Full Product Name: Wet n Wild kohl eyeliner: Silky smooth
Colour tested: White (656A)
The Good: Inexpensive. Easy to apply and lasted for a long time. Stayed in place and did not smudge easily.
The Bad: Require a few application to really see the liner
Overall: 3/5 because it is inexpensive and long lasting. It's not a must have product but it's worth the money