December Empties

Only a few days left in 2017, so I'm here sharing my empties of the last month of the year. Surprisingly it's less empty packages this month, but I'm still thinking of doing empties differently instead of doing a huge review once a month. But we'll see about that and for now let's move on to the products I've used up.

Leaders 7 Wonders sheet masks (link): Another month, another pile of sheet masks. By now I probably don't even need to tell how much I like them. 

Oz Naturals Vitamin C facial cleanser (link): It's a very basic, gentle face wash. It has a faint citrus scent. I have many face cleansers and since it didn't excite me, I used it to wash my makeup brushes.

Fresh Soy Facial Cleanser (link): For the longest time I knew of Fresh brand and I've tried their samples here and there, but I've never been into the brand until recently. Now I want everything that they carry. This cleanser has a thin consistency, smells amazing and while it's pretty basic, I really enjoyed using it. It removed makeup well and lasted quite long.      

Mario Badescu Glycolic Foaming Cleanser (link): Just like with Fresh, I've got into Mario Badescu pretty recently, but I enjoy using most of the products. Glycolic foaming cleanser didn't have the greatest smell for my liking, but I still used it up. A little goes a long way, so this little bottle lasted me a while. I used this as my morning cleanser and the skin felt really clean, but not dry afterwards.

Botanics Radiant Youth hydrating eye cream (link): I bought this cream without thinking much as I ran out of an eye cream and needed something hydrating and quickly. I didn't expect much and wanted a basic cream, which I got. This cream is really nice, it's not too thick and doesn't feel greasy on the skin. It sinks in quickly, gives plenty of moisture for the undereye area and it doesn't interfere with makeup application. I would gladly repurchase it again.

Passport To Organics Extreme Caffeine eye cream* (link to the regular caffeine cream): I'm not sure if this one is discontinued, but the brand still offers regular caffeine eye cream. Just like their other products, this eye cream is extremely long lasting. It has a light tint and smells just like coffee, so I enjoyed using this cream in the morning. It's not greasy, it applies easily and sinks into the skin well. I do recommend this eye cream.

Hanna Organic Gentle Cleanser* (link) and Everyday Creme* (link): I've recently shared my review on Hanna Organic Skincare, so you can read my thoughts on these products HERE. P.S. 15% discount code is still active - use "blondiesworld15" and save some money (it's not an affiliate code and I don't benefit from it in any way). 

 Farmacy Honey Potion hydration mask (link): I've heard great reviews about this mask, so I was very excited to try this sample. It lasted me for 2 uses. I don't have sensitive skin and I use acids in my skincare, but this mask just wasn't for me. The first time I used it I applied it following directions, but I didn't feel much warmth. Instead my skin felt somewhat uncomfortable. After washing it off my face was red and felt raw to the touch for a while, so I didn't want to use it again. However, eventually I used it up on my chin and again the skin got red though I didn't experience any other discomfort. 

Fresh Black Tea Instant Perfecting Mask (link): This mask is amazing! I love everything about it. It smells great, it is a quick beauty treatment, it leaves the skin feeling cool (very refreshing and would be amazing in summer). The skin is left soft, hydrated and with a healthy glow. It's one of those products that you use and can't tell what is different about your face, but you can tell that it made a difference. It is on the pricier side, but it lasted me for 4 months, so it's not bad. I will definitely get it again.

Pour Moi Polar Climate day cream* (link): I've reviewed this cream very recently, so you can check my feedback HERE. I loved this cream as it was light enough yet gave great hydration and protection from the cold. My only complaint is how quickly I ran out of it. On day I tried to pump it out and it was gone. I even banged it on the countertop thinking that maybe the pump for stuck or something as I couldn't believe that I'd be out of it. It's a 1 oz bottle and I used it only on the colder days 1-2 times a day, so it barely lasted me 3 weeks (if even that) of continuous use. However, I did like it a lot and I would repurchase it again. 

Calvin Klein Deep Euphoria EDP (link): I'm not a fan of Calvin Klein perfumes and there was one Euphoria edition that I liked (it reminded my mom's perfume from when I was little) though still wasn't something I would wear. When I was looking for new fragrance in spring, I smelled Deep Euphoria out of curiosity and didn't expect anything, but I fell in love instantly. Usually when I like a scent I'll wear it a few times before deciding if I like it enough to purchase, but Deep Euphoria was love at first sight. I purchased it and never regretted it. 

Sephora Avocado hand mask (link): It's a single use glove-type hand mask that I enjoy using. It's especially helpful when my hands gets dry in cold weather. The effect doesn't last too long, but the hands become beautiful and soft and they stay nice for 1-2 days, so it's more of a treatment before parties/special events or just once a week self pampering.

Alba Botanica Acnedote face & body scrub (link): Do I still need to talk about this scrub? I feel like it gets into my empties every month. It's one of my must have products that I've been using for years and I'm not planning to stop.

Korres Mulberry Vanilla shower gel (link): This smells incredible! To be honest, I wasn't looking for a shower gel when I got this one. I smelled it and I had to have it. This body wash made showering extra special. It had a somewhat creamy texture, a little went a long way and it left skin soft and hydrated. I would repurchase it again in the same scent.

Rituals shower foam (link): It's my second mini of Rituals foaming shower gel and I love it. It's a very unique texture and it smells great. However, I think just like all foam products, it tends to dry the skin a bit. I would probably use such product in summertime.

Hello Bubblegum flavor kid's toothpaste (link): While I like fresh minty breath I don't always want that, especially when I'm going to eat/drink right after brushing my teeth. I always brush my teeth the moment I get up in the morning and I just can't stand the taste of mint toothpaste mixing with food flavors, so I choose very lightly flavored toothpastes that don't leave any taste in the mouth. I've been using Hello toothpastes for at least half a year now and I really enjoy their variety. Even the minty ones aren't too strong, but I pick other flavors for my mornings. I'm always unsure about using kid's toothpaste, but this Hello one has the same active ingredients in the same percentage as the adult Hello toothpastes, so I don't think there's anything wrong with it.  

L'oreal Excellence Creme hair color in 10 Lightest Ultimate Blonde (link): I color my hair and I want it to be very very light blonde with neutral, not yellow/brassy undertones.This hair dye is nice as it doesn't smell bad, it goes on easily, doesn't tangle the hair and is easy to use overall, but I have trouble finding the right shade. It seems that my hair doesn't gt as light as I would expect with a certain shade (I've used different shade of this product in the past) and it has some yellow tone in it. I gt used to the color, I neutralize the tone after a couple of washes with a blue shampoo, but I still miss easy and perfect shade that I get with Garnier's White Chocolate color.

Virtue The Perfect Ending split end serum* (link): When I think about hair serums I think about something oil or water based, but this serum had the texture of hair lotion/cream. It was light yet powerful enough for my fine hair and a little went a long way. I would gladly use it again in the future.

Giovanni Vitapro Fusion leave-in hair treatment (link): I'm sure I've showed this in one of my blog posts already as it is one of my must have products. I've been using this leave-in conditioner for years and it is perfect for my hair. It makes my hair shiny, soft, it helps detangling it. The only complain is that the cap never stays on - it just keeps falling off (and this happens with every single one of the bottles).    

* marks PR samples received complimentary

Brand Review: One'n'Only

A lot of times when I review skincare products they are on the pricier side, so today I'll talk about a more affordable skincare line from One'n'Only (link). The brand also offers hair care and hair tools and is sold at Sally Beauty. I got to try most of the products in the Argan Oil skincare line and this is what I always prefer as it's easy to see how the whole line works together.

One'n'Only comes in brown and yellow colored plastic packaging that as an idea looks cute, but feels somewhat cheap to the touch. I understand that it's a drugstore type of brand, but very comparable (price-wise) drugstore brands have nicer containers, so that is possible to do. The other thing that I am not a fan of is a strong scent. All the products smell pretty much the same - strong sickly sweet scent. This is very personal and while I don't like it, there will always be people who don't mind the scent or who love it. Now let's move to talking about each product.

Makeup Removal Cleansing Cloths* (link): These wipes have just the right amount of dampness where they are not dry yet they're not dripping as well. I always use wipes or micellar water to remove my eye makeup and go over the rest of the face before using a face wash. One'n'Only cleansing cloths took a while to remove regular mascara and didn't do a good job. There was plenty of it left, so I had to go in with other products to finish the job. I'm not going to repurpose them and use on my vanity when applying makeup (ti wipe my hands, products, surfaces, etc.).

Cream Cleanser* (link): It seems my makeup was too hard of a job for cream cleanser as well. When I dried my face after washing with this product, my whole white towel was covered in foundation. Maybe it would work better on loose/pressed mineral foundation that is lighter on the skin, but it didn't work on my liquid foundation at all. I had to use a different face wash. However, it works well as a morning cleanser (or for the nights when there's no makeup to remove). It is very creamy and feels like applying moisturizer to the skin. It doesn't dry the skin and leaves it soft and hydrated. I think people with dry skin would especially love this.

Microdermabrasion Exfoliator* (link): This one is very gentle. I've used a few dermabration products in my life and One'n'Only is the most gentle and the most creamy of them all. It actually reminds of a regular scrub and I think it could be used almost every day even on sensitive skin. My other dermabrasion scrubs feel a bit like sandpaper (it sounds worse than it is) and I need to apply them to damp skin or add more water while using them while this one can be applied to dry skin and will not make you feel uncomfortable. As you can see in the photo, the blue exfoliating particles are very sparse.

Serum* (link): I really liked the serum a lot. I wasn't sure what to expect from it and was thinking that it might be one of those oil-based serums that I'm not a fan of. I was pleasantly surprised that this serum comes in a gel-cream consistency. It doesn't have the stickiness/wetness that gel products usually have, it's not watery, but it is very lightweight and airy. It applies to the skin smoothly and absorbs quickly leaving the skin hydrated and somewhat tighter feeling.

Day/Night Moisturizer* (link): While the cream doesn't have milkiness and is richer, it still has a very airy, whipped texture. Just like the serum it applies easily and sinks into the skin quickly without leaving any oiliness or residue. The makeup goes well on top of it and there's no separation or pilling. It's not a fancy product that promises to do a bunch of unbelievable things, but it is a nice solid moisturizer to hydrate the skin. It provides skin with moisture that it needs and doesn't clog up the pores. 

 

* marks PR samples received complimentary

Brand Review: Pour Moi

I think most people change their skincare routine/products when the seasons change, because skin's needs are different in summer and in winter. I'm also doing that and changing my skincare routine once the weather changes. For example, I'll pick richer, heavier creams for cold months and use lighter creams or lotions in the summer. When I came across Pour Moi (link) products, I was especially intrigued as they use climate smart technology. That means that Pour Moi day creams are specially formulated for certain climate types (tropical, desert, temperate, polar). They are made to optimally balance the skin no matter what the season/climate is. Getting products in airless pump containers is a big bonus as they stay fresh and hygienic.

The first product I want to review is White Serum* (link), which is meant for combo, oily, normal and sensitive skin types. As you can see from the photo, the serum is pretty thin. However, it's not too runny or watery as some other serums are and remind me more of face lotion/milk. I mostly use it both morning and evening under my creams, but I've used it as my main face moisturizer on top of another serum and I liked it that way as well. I can't detect any scent in this serum and it applies very smoothly. It sinks into the skin pretty quickly and leaves it hydrated.

Polar Day Cream* (link) is formulated for cold and dry winters (low temperatures and low humidity). Its ingredients act as a barrier against harsh winds and frost, promoted a healthy moisture balance, prevent redness and irritation, have anti-aging benefits. I love anti-aging products, but I think that's something that can't be seen right away and takes time to show the effect, so I can never comment on that part of products. However, with some really cold weather here I've got to try this cream earlier than expected. We had really cold days with even colder wind and I used this cream. My skin didn't dry out, didn't get red while inside or outside and it didn't feel oily/greasy. Before trying the cream I thought it will be much thicker than it is, because I'm used to cold protective creams to be rich. Polar Day Cream has light texture and faint blue color. It applies to the skin easily and sinks in quickly without leaving any oily residue. It makes skin hydrated and very soft. 

Since the weather is not continuously cold yet and we get some days around 50F, I keep switching my day cream and use Temperate Day Cream* (link) on those warmer days. The texture feels the same as the Polar cream, but Temperate one has a faint pink color. This cream is meant for mild temperatures and average humidity. It boosts skin's firmness, promotes a healthy lipid barrier for an optimal moisture balance, draws and traps moisture from the atmosphere and has anti-aging properties. Just like the Polar cream, it makes my skin soft, hydrated and balanced. My skin feels very comfortable and doesn't feel over-moisturized or dry. My makeup applies nicely no matter which cream I use underneath, which is especially important when using more hydrating, winter-type moisturizers.    

* marks PR samples received complimentary

November Empties

It's the last day of November and I'm sharing my empties again. I don't know how I go through so many things each month as there's always a time when I think that I will barely have anything to talk about and then the end of the month comes and my basket is full. This month I'll try to do the review a little different and will share a link to the specific post if I've already did a review on a certain product.

It's becoming a tradition to start with masks. As always my sheet masks consist mostly of Leaders and Biobelle. I did try 2 new Biobelle masks: #Dreamskin sheet mask (link) and #UnicornShake hydrogel mask (link). One difference that I've noticed about the new masks is that directions tell you to pat the remaining product into the skin. The older masks tell to rinse the face. I must say I love the change as I often choose sheet masks for hydration and like to apply them after I apply serum.

I've also gone through one more Beautigenix Lifting mask* (link). My skin feels a bit firmer after I use it, but most of all it feels soft, hydrated and plump.

I'm just getting into Fresh products, but I'm already in love with Soy face cleanser (link). It smells amazing, doesn't irritate eyes/skin and removes makeup well. I have a couple of these deluxe samples received as GWP, so I use them both for my face and to wash my makeup brushes.

Drunk Elephant Beste Jelly Cleanser (link) changed the packaging and I assume it's because of the leaking issue. I've read a lot of complaints about that, but I've never had problems with my cleanser. This cleanser lasted forevr even though I didn't try to save it and used way more than I needed. It was a good product and did its job, but it has nothing exciting, so I got tired of using it so long.

I've also used up Natura Siberica Cleansing Foaming Mousse* (link), which was another product lasting forever. I liked it more in the beginning, but later I noticed that while it removes makeup, it doesn't do the best job if I use more/heavier makeup. I used this face wash as my morning cleanser and also to wash my brushes.

Madre Labs Witch Hazel toner is discontinued (link to similar products), but I really don't see much difference among different brands. I use this toner to wipe off my face after washing my face.

I love the smell and fine mist of Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Cucumber and Green Tea (link). I used it before applying my serum/moisturizer and I liked it so much that I will repurchase it in the future. I also used up Glycolic Acid toner (link), which didn't smell as good and I didn't see any magical results.

I've used up another Saturday Skin Daily Dew Hydrating Essence Mist (link). It was ok, nothing spectacular, almost fragrance-free, so nothing to hype about. Just another facial mist.

I like switching up my face masks and I used Origins Clear Improvements (link) as my pore clearing/detoxifying option. I liked it enough to repurchase it in the future. The mask was easy to apply, a little went a long way, it dried quickly, but didn't feel uncomfortable on the skin and it didn't dry out the skin.

Oz Naturals eye cream (link) comes in a big tube as usually eye creams/serums come in half size. The cream was light, hydrating, but I ended up using it as eye mask. I would apply it generously under my eyes and apply some different mask on the rest of my face. While it was good enough, it didn't excite me and also lasted too long (I like switching products).

I only had a sample of this Sunday Riley C.E.O. Moisturizer (link), but I wanted to include it in my empties. The orange-y smell was amazing! The cream itself felt light on the skin, but was deeply hydrating and more proper for colder months. It left my skin super soft and hydrated and I already have a full size in my wishlist.

I've gone through Caudalie eye cream from VineActiv Discovery Kit (link). I don't know what it is about Caudalie as I look at this brand as something simple, meeting my basic needs, but I keep repurchasing their products and I like them. The eye cream was light yet moisturizing and that was exactly what I wanted.

There's another Oz Naturals product in my empties - eye gel (link). White it's the standard 0.5 oz (15ml) it lasted so long that I put it aside for some time, used something else and then got back to this product. I didn't notice any dramatic changes in my eye area, but it was a nice light gel to be used under eye cream for extra hydration.

I have a whole review on C.Lavie HERE. I've finally used up face serum and face cream, but since they were nearing 6 months mark, I didn't use them on my face anymore and used as body moisturizers. They didn't roll off the skin and were great for that purpose.

I don't mind when products are scented, but Vichy Liftactiv moisturizer (link) was over-fragranced. I tried to get used to the smell, but it was too much and I ended up using it on my body. The cream itself was nice and would make my skin plump, soft, hydrated.

My skin likes acids, but it responds best to Sunday Riley Good Genes Lactic Acid Treatment (link). I've tried other lactic acid products and while I get results, they don't come so quickly and so visibly as with Sunday Riley. This tiny sample lasted my about a week, but I start seeing difference in my skin within the first 2 days. My skin becomes brighter, more even toned, more even surface and it glows from inside. I've used it in the past and I've repurchased it again.

It seems this month was mostly about face care products, but I have a few other items as well. I'll start transition into bodycare products with Sephora Avocado hand mask (link) and Almond foot mask (link to non-holiday packaging). Let me tell by saying how cute the packaging is and these two would make great stocking stuffers. Both products need to be applied on clean skin and removed after about 20 minutes. The remaining cream should be massaged into hands/feet. This was such a nice treat and it would be amazing to use once a week or before big events.

I received Aerin Rose Hand & Body Cream (link) as GWP. I kept it on my nightstand and used as hand cream before going to bed each night. It's a light cream, it absorbs to the skin quickly, so it doesn't stain sheets. It was nice to use, but I think it would be too light for cold months and it is better suited for warmer months.

There's yet another Alba Botanica Acnedote face & body scrub (link) in my empties. I love it and I can't live without it.

I didn't use Moogoo Post Hair Removal Cream* (link) regularly and I don't have a problem with ingrown hair, so I can't comment on that aspect of the cream. However, I used it as a body moisturizer and it was great. It had a sweet, barely noticeable nutty smell, a little went a long way and it hydrated skin well.

I've recently did a post on my shower routine and included Brooklyn Botany Avocado scrub* (link) in that article. You can check my review on it HERE. I love all Brooklyn Botany scrubs and while they're salt based, they're so finely milled that they are gentle on the skin.

I'm a fan of Briogeo hair mask, but Rosarco Milk leave-in conditioning spray (link) was just ok. My hair felt nice after using it, but I felt that it didn't look as good the next day and needed washing again.

Matrix Biolage Cleansing Conditioner for Damaged Hair (link) smelled just like mangoes. I used it on the ends of my hair as I would any other conditioner. I didn't notice any magical effect, but my hair was easy to brush, smelled nice, the ends were soft and smooth until next wash.

You can find my review on Goldwell hair products HERE. Restorative balm* (link) wasn't bad, but I'm happy I finally finished it. As all of Goldwell products, it had a strong smell which bothered me most of the time. I used it on the ends of my hair and would lightly go throughout the length of my hair, but I would usually this balm generously all over the hair and leave it on as a mask.

I also finished up Pacifica Coconut Pro hair mask (link). While it is a mask, I would use it as a conditioner only. As always, I apply it to the ends and halfway through my hair, leave for a minute or so and rinse it out. I liked it and I like other Pacifica hair masks as well.

I used these Living Proof wipes to clean my brushes/hands/makeup vanity when applying makeup. I think they are not available anymore.

I moved RMS Tinted Un Powder 0-1 setting powder (link) into a different container for easier use. It was a very nice powder and I would repurchase it in the future. It set makeup great and I never had a problem with makeup separating or getting in lines. The powder was milled very finely.

It time to get rid of 3 makeup application sponges. Two of them were Beautyblender (original and pro) and the third one was Sephora Total Coverage sponge (link). While Sephora sponge wasn't exactly as Beautyblender, it was still a great sponge and I reached for it just as much as I did for the other two. I've tried a few makeup application sponges and so far this specific one from Sephora and Beautyblender (any regular size) work the best and I see no difference in the application process, ease or final result. 

I was very excited when I got Eos crystal lip balm (link) as it was such a different product. It was moisturizing to the lips, it smelled nice. However, one day when I was applying it to my lips, the whole sphere just fell out of the container. I never carried this lip balm around and only kept in a drawer and it wasn't in any heat, but it seems as if the bottom part melted and got loose off the container.

Nars pencil sharpener (link) is great, but mine is old and got all dirty, so I replaced it with the same exact new one. Simple as that.

I love Fresh lip balms (link), but their texture is very soft and they are so delicate. I always break them off the base and I can never carry them in my bag in warm weather as they melt and get messy.

Avril lipstick in Rose Vintage (link) was absolutely one of my all time favorite lipsticks and shades. I wore it all year round, but especially in fall/winter season. The lipstick stayed on well, the color was opaque, the taste was pleasant. It's one of the natural lipsticks and I've had it for a little over a year, so while there's still some product left, the smell has changed and I don't want to apply it on my lips anymore.

It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Cream (link) was the first product that hooked me on to liquid foundations. While it is called CC cream, it really is a full coverage foundation. It applies asily, feels lightweight and gives great coverage. I had colors Light and Medium and would mix them depending on my needs.

I'm also getting rid of an old one Sigma brush from a travel kit. I can't remember the number of this brush anymore. It was a good brush, but I've had it for 6+ years and it's becoming too harsh on my skin.    

Lastly I have L'oreal Lash Paradise mascara (link). It's being compared to Too Faced Better Than Sex mascara and since I love that one so much, I had to try L'oreal. It was a great product and it gives almost exactly the same result as Too Faced. I still prefer Too Faced as it stays the same from the moment I open the tube until I throw it away while L'oreal became a little messy and I would have to clean the wand or around the tube once in a while.




* marks PR samples received complimentary

Brand Review: Hana Organic Skincare + Discount Code

Today I'm super excited to review Hana Organic Skincare (link) products as not only I have a chance to share my opinion about them, but I also have a very special discount code for anyone who wants to purchase products from this brand. It's not an affiliate code and I get nothing from sales or for sharing it - it's just a nice bonus for my readers. I'll share the code at the bottom of this post, but first let's see what products I have tried.

I received 2 full size and 2 travel size products* to try. The full size packaging looks very high end. They are black glass containers with simple writing. The packaging is simple, elegant and not overcrowded. Sample sized products come in plastic containers though the same packaging concept is kept throughout all the range. The products are cruelty-free, gluten-free, vegan and most of them are non-GMO. 

Gentle Cleanser (link) has liquid consistency, so I wasn't sure how well it will work. It needs to be shaken before use and while it comes out just like water, it does lather up a bit when applied to the face. It has a nice sweet-ish smell, but not overpowering (I can't name a specific scent). It removed all makeup well and left skin completely clean. I used it on my eyes as well, but if you do that, make sure to keep eyes closed as it might irritate them if the cleanser gets into the eyes. I was really surprised how little of the product is needed, so even this small bottle will last me well. 

Next I tried Lavender Grains (link), which can be used as an exfoliator or as a mask. I'm using it both way and I like them equally. You scoop out a little bit of the powder and mix with water. Depending on the amount of water added you get either a face scrub (more water) or face mask (less water). No matter which way you use, the product is gentle on the skin. It doesn't dry out the skin and leaves it soft, calm, smooth. I thought that adding a ceramic scoop into the container is a very nice bonus. This product smells a little earthy-nutty and I find the scent very pleasant. 

My favorite product out of these 4 is Gentle Toner (link), which is surprising as it has the most expressed scent and I smell ylang ylang mostly (and it's not my favorite scent in general). The toner feels so refreshing and very hydrating. I love spraying it on the skin morning and evening after cleansing and before applying serums/moisturizers. It gives an extra layer of hydration to the skin and the smell always makes me feel good. The only downside I find with this toner is that it sprays quite a concentrated stream. While I don't mind it for skincare routine, I prefer a finer mist as that way I can use my toners throughout the day to refresh my face even if I'm wearing makeup.

Last, but not least I have Everyday Creme (link). This cream has SPF 15 and according to directions it is good to be used under makeup. To be honest, I haven't tried it during the day and only use it at night. While my skin is normal and tends to go towards dry in winter, it's probably not cold enough for me to try this cream as a day cream. However, I love it for nighttime. This moisturizer has oils and butters, but the texture is lightweight, almost like mousse. It spreads on the skin easily, but it takes longer to fully absorb compared to my other moisturizers. Sometimes I feel as if it didn't absorb yet, but after touching my face I realize that there's no film/residue/oiliness on my skin. So this cream really makes skin feel extra hydrated and very soft. It has a natural, shea butter-like scent (it doesn't contain shea butter though).   

As promised at the beginning of this article, it's time to share 15% discount code with you. Enter code "blondiesworld15" at checkout to receive your discount. Like I said before, it's not an affiliate code and I don't benefit from it. Hana skincare offers full size as well as travel size items and different sets, so it's a nice way to try products for yourself or give as holiday gifts for friends and family. 

* marks PR samples received complimentary   

Product Review: Voula The Serum Foundation

I got into liquid foundations pretty recently (during the summer), but I'm hooked on them and I know what I'm looking for in my foundations. I want my foundation to look natural, feel light on the skin, but give full (or good medium) coverage. I did find one that I have repurchased already, but that doesn't stop me from looking for more. Besides, I'm a person who likes to try new things and have a few options available. When I had a chance to try the new Voula The Serum Foundation* (link) I just couldn't resist it. So, let me tell you about this foundation, show color swatches and let's see if it ticks the boxes for my foundation requirements.

I have been using this foundation for some time now and I wanted to share my review on it. The foundation looks very high end in frosted glass bottles. It comes in 8 shades total and I've received four shades: 03, 04, 05 and 06. This foundation includes a bio-active complex of vitamins, marine extracts and holistic botanical-derived ingredients that not only make the skin look good, but are also beneficial. According to Voula, they help to rejuvenate and moisturize the skin, diminish the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and pores, control oils and provide anti-oxidant protection.

The texture is a little runny, but it is a serum-like foundation, so it's nothing unexpected. It doesn't dry quickly, so it gives time to work the product into the skin. I love this as I prefer to apply foundation to my whole face at once and not work in sections. It's a very lightweight product that feels like nothing on the skin, yet it gives good coverage. Voula describes coverage as medium-full and says that the foundation can be layered to achieve more coverage. I tried layering it up and I didn't like the result. When I apply foundations I tend to go over my nose area and chin with a second layer of product to make sure the coverage is flawless. However, I wasn't successful at doing this with Voula as instead of perfecting and giving more coverage, the foundation on those spots began to separate and get patchy. I did leave it the way it was and tested it for the rest of the day and it just went worse.

Next time I tried applying just one layer of The Serum Foundation and while the coverage was medium (a good medium) I enjoyed the way my skin looked. I also experimented with mixing this foundation with other full coverage foundations to achieve more coverage and that was successful even though I still didn't get full coverage. It's all personal preference and it's not a foundation I would use for going out, but I really enjoy how it looks and feels on my skin and I've been wearing it on a daily basis since I received it and will continue to use it.     

This foundation looks very natural on the skin giving it a satin finish. It gives the skin that "glow from inside" effect without giving any shine/oiliness. It lasts perfectly for 4-5 hours on my skin and then I need to fix nose or chin area. Those are my problem spots as I touch my face and I have to fix them wearing other foundations as well (though sometimes I have to do it in 5-6 hours), so how long the foundation stays on is individual for everyone. However, I lightly powder those trouble spots with pressed foundation and I can go on for another 3 hours without a problem. Again, this is my preference and I want my foundation to look perfect all the time, but since it is more of a medium coverage it might not bother other people and they might not need to touch up.

Left to Right: 03, 04, 05, 06 (Indoors 1)

Left to Right: 03, 04, 05, 06 (Indoors 2)

Left to Right: 03, 04, 05, 06 (Indoors 1)

Top to Bottom: 03, 04, 05, 06 (Indoors 2)

It's been so miserable and dark here these days that I had to take photos using artificial light. The ones that the caption says "Indoors 1" are taken with regular light and vanity mirror lighting was used to take "Indoors 2" photos that reflect true shades best.

While I don't sunbath, I do get some tan during the summer though I still stay light skinned. That's why I get away with using the same foundation shade all year round. However, during the summer and fall I can use light-medium shades and look very natural. Shade 03 of The Serum Foundation is meant for light skin with neutral undertones and this is exactly what I go for. When I saw this shade for the first time, I was quite sure that it will be too light for me, but I was wrong as it's a perfect match for me and looks like my skin once applied. The Serum Foundation in 04 is for light-medium skin with neutral undertones and is still good on my skin by itself, but I prefer mixing it with shade 03 or some other light colored foundation. Going into winter I have to be careful with light-medium shades as my tan is wearing off and I don't want to have contrast between my face/neck and the rest of the body. I've also swatched shades 05 and 06, but they are both meant for medium skin, so there's no way I can pull them off even if I tan.

Brand Review: DR. Hauschka - Part 2

Recently I posted review on a bunch of new Dr. Hauschka makeup products. Today I'm doing a Part 2 review on new lip products. I have a total of 5 items that include lipsticks and lip glosses. So here we go!

I've received two sheer lipsticks in colors 04 Florentina* and 06 Aprikola* (link). Sometimes lipsticks feel/apply differently depending on the color, but it's not the case with Dr. Hauschka. Both of these shades were exactly the same in the application. They apply smoothly, evenly, they feel soft and hydrating on the lips. Just like the name suggests the colors are sheer, but they apply evenly. I think they showed off more on the hand swatch than they do on the lips and look a little lighter on the lips. However, they are both very nice and a great product for anyone who doesn't want bold lips or who just gets into makeup. 

I also tried out lip gloss in color 05 Cornelian* (link). This lip gloss feels light and is not sticky. It can be used on its own or as a topper for any other lip product. The color didn't show up much on my bare lips, but I loved applying it to other lipsticks. I tried it both with Dr. Hauschka sheer lipsticks mentioned above and with other brand lipsticks in different colors and it looks good with all of them. 

The other lipsticks from new makeup line are more pigmented and give full color to the lips. I have colors 08 Hollyhock* and 09 Chesflower* (link). Both colors are very beautiful and perfect for fall/winter. They go on the lips easily, feel very light and hydrating. The hydration is continuous throughout the whole time I wear them. None of the colors transfered to the teeth, which is a big plus as I don't have to worry when I wear them. The darker shade (Chesflower) has some patchiness, but it's not really noticeable once on the lips unless you know what to look for and get very close to the lips. It is a common problem with such shad, but since it's barely noticeable, it doesn't bother me and I enjoy wearing that shade. Not only the lipstick stays on well and feels comfortable, but it also wears off nicely and evenly. I love these lipsticks so much that I would love to have each shade they come in.   




* marks PR samples received complimentary

Transitioning Into Cold Months Skincare Routine

When the weather gets colder I switch up my skincare and start using more moisturizing and richer texture products. This is the time when I go for more layering and pick up hydrating masks and thicker creams. During warm months I like to skip some skincare steps and often choose serum as my moisturizer, but during colder season I am more consistent with each step in my routine. I'm going to tell about my basic skincare routine going from summer/warm fall into fall/winter, so this will not include masks or special treatments.

Face cleaning is an important part of my skincare routine and I want to make sure I remove all traces of makeup before applying serums and creams at night. Once in a while I'll skip face washing in the morning and will wipe my face with Madre Labs Witch Hazel toner (link). However, most of the time I do wash my face in the morning and use Drunk Elephant Beste Jelly Cleanser (link, updated packaging). I use it at night sometimes too and I quite like it. I noticed that the packaging has changed (I have the old version) as I've read people complaining that the cleanser is leaking, but I've never had problems with mine. It's a nice light cleanser that doesn't dry out the skin. It lasts pretty well and removes makeup, but I prefer Pacifica gel cleansers that are cheaper, do just as good of a job and last longer.

I start my night time routine by removing eye, brow makeup and lip color using Andalou Lash + Lid Makep Remover (link, updated packaging). It's not the greatest and sometimes I like it and sometimes I don't. I wouldn't repurchase it. Though it is gentle on the skin and eyes and I like creamy texture for colder months. Next I go in with face wash and I often choose to use Juice Beauty Blemish Clearing Cleanser (link). I know I said that I try to pick more hydrating skincare options for fall, but when it comes to removing my makeup, I want good deep cleansing. There are times when I use this face wash for days, but it never dried out my skin. My skin always feels comfortable and doesn't feel tight when using it. Also, a little goes a long way. Finally, I wipe my face with witch hazel toner and move on to next steps.

For daytime I start by misting my face with Mario Badescu Facial Spray with Aloe, Cucumber and Green Tea (link). It has the tiniest mist and smells divine! I top it off with Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum* (link) and apply Botanics All Bright Refreshing Eye Roll-On (link). Then I let my serum to sink in for a few minutes. This vitamin C serum makes my skin brighter and more even toned. It absorbs quickly and it's not sticky on the skin. It smells nice, but it has a hint of lemon/citrus home cleaning products (it doesn't bother me at all). The eye gel is very lightweight and not sticky and metal roller feels very refreshing in the morning. Once the serum sinks in I apply Botanics Radiant Youth Eye Cream (link) and Vichy Liftactiv Supreme Face Cream (link). When I was looking for a transitional eye cream, I wanted one that is light yet hydrating enough and this is what this Botanics eye cream is like. It applies smoothly and sinks into the skin quickly without leaving any stickiness, greasiness or residue. Vichy cream feels nice on the skin and goes on and absorbs well. It's great under makeup. However, it is very fragranced and the smell bothers me a little.

The face mist I use at night is MyChelle Fruit Enzyme Mist (link, updated packaging). It doesn't spray as finely as Mario Badescu, but it's still a nice product. I haven't used many MyChelle products recently, but I've used a lot of them in the past and there are some really great ones. Next I apply either Mad Hippie Vitamin A Serum* (link) or Passport To Organics Hyaluronic Acid Serum* (link). I try to switch between these two serums. The smell of Mad Hippie is amazing! It reminds me of candies. My skin is very even in color and texture and I think it's thanks to this serum. I have a review on Passport To Organics brand on my blog and my opinion about this serum hasn't changed since them. It's a great hydrating serum. For eye care I choose Caudalie VineActiv Eye Cream (link), which feels lighter in texture than Botanics, but feels more hydrating on the skin. Once I'm done with my eye cream and face serums, I move on to my face cream. Sunday Riley C.E.O. Moisturizer (link) is quite thick and a little bit goes a long way. The smell is wonderful and the cream feels very nice on the face. It leaves the skin very soft and hydrated.

The last step is to apply Revitalash Advanced Eyelash Conditioner (link). I reviewed a bunch of products from the brand and I told about this product as well. I keep using it and I see a real difference in my lashes.       




* marks PR samples received complimentary