Tag: oily skin

Paula’s Choice Resist Super-Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30

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Another “Youtube made me buy it” moment! The Paula’s Choice Resist Super-Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30 seems to be a popular tinted mineral sunscreen in the beautysphere, and I wanted to give it a try on my acne prone, normal to dry skin.

Information on Paula’s Choice Resist Super-Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30

“A lightly tinted mineral-based formula that protects skin from sun damage and fortifies it with state-of-the-art antioxidants.

Prevents premature aging of skin
Boost skin’s environmental defenses
Silky texture leaves a soft matte finish
Use as the last step in your AM skincare routine”

– paulaschoice.com

Price: $33 USD
Amount: 60ml/2oz
Packaging:  Opaque blue plastic tube.
Water Resistant? No.

UV FILTERS:
Zinc Oxide 13% (UVB, UVAII and some UVAI)

Protection:
UVB: SPF 30
UVA: If U.S. regulations say UVA has to be 1/3rd of the UVB, it should be around a PPD of 10

INACTIVE INGREDIENTS: Water (Aqua), Cyclopentasiloxane (hydration), PEG-12 Dimethicone (texture enhancer), PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone (texture enhancer), Lauroyl Lysine (skin-conditioning agent),Sodium Chloride (stabilizer), Trihydroxystearin (texture-enhancing), Dimethicone Crosspolymer ( suspending agent), Resveratrol (antioxidants), Quercetin (antioxidants), Epigallocatechin Gallate (antioxidants), Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E/antioxidant), Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (vitamin C/antioxidant), Adenosine (skin-restoring), Bisabolol (skin-soothing), Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract (skin-soothing), Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Extract (antioxidant), Haematococcus Pluvialis Extract (astaxanthin/antioxidant), Hydrolyzed Corn Starch (texture-enhancing/mattifying agent), Polysorbate 80 (texture-enhancing), Hydrated Silica (texture-enhancing/mattifying agent), Triethoxycaprylylsilane (texture enhancer), C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate (emollient texture enhancer), Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate (texture enhancer), Caprylyl Glycol (preservatives), Hexylene Glycol (preservatives), Ethylhexylglycerin (preservatives), Iron Oxide (CI77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Phenoxyethanol (preservatives).

INCIDecoder

In true Paula’s Choice fashion, the Resist Super-Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30’s inactive ingredient list is a cocktail of skin beneficial ingredients and I always appreciate the ingredients having their primary function beside them.

Only noticeable moisturizing ingredients are various -cones which make the base of the sunscreen.

Antioxidants Resveratrol, Quercetin, Epigallocatechin Gallate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, and plant extracts high in antioxidants.

Soothing ingredients Bisabolol and Willow Bark Extract.

Adenosine for wound-healing and aiding in barrier repair and protection.

My Experience with Paula’s Choice Resist Super-Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30

FRAGRANCE: None.

APPLICATION: Applied in 2 separate layers to give the tint a chance to adapt to my skin tone as best as possible. It does not feel greasy at all, rather it feels like a light lotion. I experienced no pilling.

FINISH: Semi-matte but still skin-like, I notice my texture is a bit emphasized once it sets more.

FEEL: Light, sets pretty quickly and has a light tacky finish, not as tacky as the DRMTLGY Universal Tinted Moisturizer SPF 46.

STINGS EYES? No.

WHITECAST / TINTED? I find the tint to lean slightly pink. With separate layers it’s not very noticeable, but when I apply the sunscreen all in one go, the pink is more obvious. I have also used this sunscreen as a “topper” over an all-organic UV filter sunscreen for the tint, and with a very sheer layer I barely notice the pink undertone.

EXTRA SKIN BENEFITS? One main benefit I’ve noticed is that the light coverage does even out my skin tone. Other than that, I don’t find it does dry skin any favours, even if you’re well prepped prior. It makes me look dehydrated quickly and as a result makes me look a bit more aged. By end of day my skin feels uncomfortably dry.

UNDER MAKEUP: Like other all-mineral sunscreens I have tried, I find it grips onto product more and thus increases coverage. On days I feel like I can wear it on its own, my concealer and liquid blush sits really well on it and still blends easily. I notice when I set my face lightly with powder, the dry feeling increases quickly.

Final Thoughts on Paula’s Choice Resist Super-Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30

Pros

  • At least a SPF30
  • Sets quickly and has a skin-like, non-greasy finish
  • Like all Paula’s choice products, contains other nice ingredients
  • Skin tone looked even

Cons

  • I don’t know how they can call this a moisturizer, it’s quite drying. Seems that it would work best for those of you with very oily skin that have never been concerned with the uncomfortable, tight feeling. Otherwise I’d recommend to moisturize prior to application for any skin type.
  • Even though it is a soft matte finish, I find my texture is still emphasized because of the way it sits on my skin, and it adds further to the dehydrated look I get.

In-between Feels

  • Tint – prefer the undertone in the DRMTLGY one but this is still passable when applied properly. For fairer skin tones you may notice it being a bit dark with generous application, darker skin tones may still see a cast.

Overall the Paula’s Choice Resist Super-Light Wrinkle Defense SPF 30 seems like a good tinted sunscreen for those with very oily skin types, and because the finish is so skin-like I can see it performing nicely under makeup. I will be giving this away to a family member with a more oily skin type because it is too drying for mine.

WHERE TO BUY:
Paula’s Choice Website *

As always, I hope you found this review helpful and informative!

xo, M

REVIEW: Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm

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…with Ecinachea GreenEnvy!

I can’t stop seeing this product on Youtube and Instagram. It was driving me quite mad actually. What is so damn special about Farmacy’s Green Clean Meltaway Cleansing Balm!? I picked it up during Sephora’s surprise summer VIB Sale to find out.

CLAIMS

 

Green Clean Makeup Meltaway Cleansing Balm instantly melts into the skin, dissolving away makeup and pollution residue so even the boldest eye makeup and sunscreen applications are easily removed. It refines the skin’s surface for a younger looking complexion. Perfect for all skin types, Green Clean can be used even on dry and delicate complexions.

The balm features sunflower oil and ginger root oil to gently cleanse and nourish the skin for a glowing complexion. Extract of the Moringa tree, a native tree to India and Africa, helps to purify and refresh skin by removing impurities caused by pollution. Papaya extract acts as a natural exfoliator to help renew the look of the skin’s surface. An aromatic blend of lime, bergamot and orange essential oils revitalizes the look of skin. It features the unique patent-protected variant of Echinacea Purpurea, GreenEnvy™, which contains a high concentration of the phytochemical Cichoric Acid, a potent natural antioxidant that promotes an evenly toned complexion.

AMOUNT: 3.2oz / 90ml

PRICE: $34 USD – $44 CAD

INGREDIENTS

IMG_20181209_144930-1.jpg

As listed on Sephora

“-Echinacea GreenEnvy™: Promotes an evenly toned complexion.
-Sunflower Oil and Ginger Root Oil: Gently cleanse and nourish the skin for a glowing complexion.
-Extract of the Moringa Tree: Helps to purify and refresh skin by removing impurities caused by pollution.
-Papaya Extract: Acts as a natural exfoliator to help renew the look of the skin’s surface.”

Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Peg-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Peg-10 Isostearate, Polyethylene, Phenoxyethanol, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Citrus Aurantifolia (Lime) Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Amino Esters-1, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Amber Powder, Cananga Odorata Flower Oil, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Echinacea Purpurea Root Extract, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Moringa Pterygosperma Seed Extract, Disodium Phosphate, Citric Acid.

COSDNA IL – Lists basic functions of each ingredient.

Funny that the highlighted ingredients are all at the bottom of the list, while the essential oil fragrances are all on top… I can’t seem to find anything about a dosing issue for ecinachea topically, and not gonna lie, I’m bothered that these ingredients are not higher up; It makes me question if they’re truly significant in this balm. Even in the description on Sephora, it states, “An aromatic blend of lime, bergamot and orange essential oils revitalizes the look of skin. It features the unique patent-protected variant of Echinacea Purpurea, GreenEnvy™, which contains a high concentration of the phytochemical Cichoric Acid, a potent natural antioxidant that promotes an evenly toned complexion.” So both the essential oils at the top of the list as well as their Ecinachea GreenEnvy help with improving your complexion. Maybe the Ecinachea is for long-term whereas the EOs just impart an instant brightening effect?

USAGE

 

I’ve been using it every night since I ran out of my Dermalogica PreCleanse Balm.

SCENT: Light lime scent. Not overpowering and doesn’t linger.

TEXTURE: Despite being in a balm form, it is quite light and I find oily-skinned peeps will find this very approachable and pleasant. Think “sherbert balm.”

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APPLICATION: Scoop of a nickel-quarter size amount for my face and neck. I’d use the latter amount if I was wearing a lot of makeup that day. Melts quickly and goes on very thin.

FINISH: No residue or heavy moisture like the Dermalogica PreCleanse Balm.

INSTANT RESULTS: Clean, not green face!

LONG-TERM RESULTS: Nothing fancy.

FINAL THOUGHTS

00100dPORTRAIT_00100_BURST20181209144522592_COVER-1.jpg

The Farmacy Green Clean Meltaway Cleansing Balm is nice. It’s a light texture, smells pleasant, removes all the makeup from my face, removes the beady dirt/dead skin, and doesn’t compromise anything. I’ll definitely keep using it since it is serving it’s purpose, although I’ll probably hold off on repurchasing. This didn’t do anything overly amazing for my skin that I would miss. I upset myself, for I wanted something significant! I’m interested in going back to a regular cleansing oil, and the affordable, simple Japanese cleansing oils are capturing my interest. If I start traveling more frequently, I may consider picking up the small size of this, or just go back to Banila Co. if I decide I want a full-size balm again (better price too).

Do I recommend? For the funsies. Get the mini first, especially if you travel a lot.
Specific Skin-Type? Any skin type will enjoy this if you prefer a thinner, light balm.

WHERE TO PURCHASE: Sephora

Hope you found this review helpful!

xo, M

RELATED CONTENT:
I tried Dermalogica’s Double Cleanse Routine ft. the PreCleanse Balm
My Nighttime (PM) Skincare Routine 2018

SUNSCREEN SUNDAY #1: Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence SPF 50+ PA++++

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Back in July, I did Sunscreen Week and reviewed 7 sunscreens. Instead of waiting until I have 7 sunscreens, I thought if I did have one to review, I’ll just review it on Sunday! To kick off this new Sunscreen Sunday Series, I will be starting with Klairs’ new Soft Airy UV Essence SPF 50+ PA++++ *.

If you’re curious about Sunscreen Week, here are the reviews! They all follow the same review format. If there’s something I’m missing in these sunscreen reviews, please let me know!
SUNSCREEN WEEK [Day #1]: Make P:rem UV Defense Me Blue Ray Sun Gel SPF 50+ PA++++
SUNSCREEN WEEK [Day #2]: Elta Md UV Facial Broad-Spectrum SPF 30+ Moisturizing Facial Sunscreen
SUNSCREEN WEEK [Day #3]: Boo Bamboo Natural Sunscreen Mini Spray SPF 30 (Regular and Baby & Kids)
SUNSCREEN WEEK [Day #4]: The Ordinary Mineral UV Filters SPF 30 with Antioxidants
SUNSCREEN WEEK [Day #5]: Cerave AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30
SUNSCREEN WEEK [Day #6]: Riversol SPF 30 Lightweight Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
SUNSCREEN WEEK [DAY #7]: La Roche Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Ultra-Fluid Lotion SPF 50

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ABOUT:
“The Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence SPF 50 PA++++ is an everyday sun protector for sensitive skin. As is it water-based, it holds a gel-type texture to give a soft weightless and light finish. Also with its high SPF and PA level, it completely guards the skin against UVA, UVB without leaving any greasiness or white cast. The Klairs Freshly Juiced Line is to brighten dull skin with the effect of the vitamin for sensitive skin. Apply Soft Aivy UV Essence after using this line to shield your skin from UV lights and enhance vitamin effects.”

Price: $23 USD / ~$30 CAD
Amount: 80 ml / 2.7 fl oz
Protection: UVA/UVB
Strength: SPF 50+ PA++++

UV FILTERS:
Type: Chemical
Uvinul A Plus, Uvinul T 150

INGREDIENTS:
IMG_20180929_133114.jpg

CONSISTENCY: Light cream.

APPLICATION: Spreads easily and actually feels airy. No stickyness or greasiness as you apply.
IMG_20180929_132512.jpg

FINISH: Undetectable. It adds a slight moisturized look to the skin but nothing overly glowy.
IMG_20180921_131408.jpg

FEEL: Light.

STINGS EYES? No, but I prefer using a physical sunscreen around my eyes.

WHITECAST? No.

WATER RESISTANT? No.

SKIN BENEFITS?
Contains Niacinamide, Adenosine, Panthenol, Beta-Glucan, and Sea Buckthorn Oil. I find these ingredients do have purpose and contribute to my skin’s health aside from sun protection. This sunscreen doesn’t sting my face and my skin feels smoother.

UNDER MAKEUP:
It Cosmetics CC Cream glides on easily, and it doesn’t add or subtract anything about the finish.

WHERE TO BUY:
Wishtrend
YesStyle

Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence SPF 50+ PA++++ is a “cosmetically elegant” sunscreen. I’ve tried Klairs’ Mid-Day Blue Sun Lotion in the past and while I liked it, the cast is very noticeable. They finally came out with a chemical sunscreen that doesn’t have a cast, doesn’t sting my face, and feels comfortable on the skin! I also find it a great value; 80ml / 2.7 fl oz for $24-30! I definitely recommend Klairs Soft Airy UV Essence SPF 50+ PA++++ if you’ve been eyeing it.
REVIEW | Klairs Mid-day Blue Sun Lotion SPF40 / PA++

I have other new sunscreens in my collection, so stay tuned for other Sunscreen Sunday reviews!

xo, M

* Sent for review purposes.
This post contains affiliate links.
DISCLAIMER, PR, AFFILIATES

REVIEW: Some By Mi AHA/BHA/PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner, Cleansing Bar, and H7 Hydromax Cream

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Seriously, how many of us saw this product and the before/afters circulate our social media feeds? Some By Mi reached out to me to try their very popular AHA/BHA/PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner as well as their Cleansing Bar and H7 Hydromax Cream.

Some By Mi (meaning: Attracted to Beauty) is a popular natural cosmetic Korean Brand that’s all about “Miracle of my skin with good ingredients” (this is their slogan translated to English). 400 thousand of their products sold out within 3 months, and from that popular before/after photo circulating around, their products seem especially catered to those with acne-prone skin.

For this review, I will be more detailed about the 30 Day Miracle Toner because it’s the only information I received in English from the brand. I will do my best to review the other products in this post.

And yes, as the title suggests, there will be a giveaway of all 3 products! Be sure to check out the details at the end of this post. Let’s get on to the review!

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4FoqvpIrxU]

This post is unsponsored.
Products were just sent complimentary for review purposes.
This post contains affiliate links. This means if you use this link to make a purchase, I make a small commission. Thanks for your support if you decide to use them! If you feel uncomfortable, feel free to search a new link.

About the Brand

Some By Mi means “Attracted by Beauty”
Slogan is “Miracle of my skin with good ingredients”
Popular natural Korean Cosmetic Brand
400 thousand products sold out in 3 months
Products catered mostly to those with acne-prone skin
From what I’ve seen on e-retailers, these products are always on sale at a reduced cost / some type of deal

AHA/BHA/PHA 30 Days Miracle Toner

Some By Mi #2.00_03_11_17.Still005

CLAIMS / QUICK FACTS:

  • 150ml, 32, 000 won
  • Skin Cell Control
  • Exfoliating
  • Acne Control
  • Smooth Skin
  • Skin Cell and Body Waste Removal
  • Moisturizing
  • Pore Control
  • Improvement of Complexion
  • Passed the Hypo-Allergenic Test – I don’t know what this test is
  • Without 20  Stimulating Ingredients – meaning 20 ingredients that could cause a negative reaction
  • Sebum-Control
  • Blackhead Control
  • pH 5.5
  • Ingredients based on EWG Safety Ratings

Ingredient Highlights

Note: The ingredients listed is provided to me by Some By Mi. It doesn’t reflect the entire ingredient list, just the main ones.

AHA (Citric Acid): 500ppm = 0.05%
– Derived from citrus fruits
– Usually used as a pH adjuster
– Larger molecule than Glycolic Acid
– Not as studied as Glycolic or Lactic Acid
– If in higher % could exfoliate the skin and act as water-binding agent

BHA (Salicylic Acid): 100ppm = 0.01%
– Exfoliates the pore lining, making it very suitable for acne-prone skin
– Also has soothing properties

PHA Lactobionic Acid: 100ppm = 0.01%
– Supposed to be as effective as AHAs
– Larger molecular structure; Doesn’t penetrate the skin as quickly
– Less sensitizing

Tea Tree Water: 10, 000ppm = 1%
– Tea Tree Oil is skin-soothing
– Some By Mi explains that it helps soothe skin, relieve inflammation and disinfect skin (antibacterial properties)

Niacinamide: 2%
I love this ingredient, it’s multipurpose for your skin’s health
– Improves barrier function
– Controls oil production
– Minimizes pores and fine lines
– Brightening

Other Notables (stated by Some By Mi)
Adenosine: Anti-wrinkle
P-Refynil: Sebum Control
Fructan: Deep Hydration

Usage:
I removed my acne treatments – BHA wash, BP wash, Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum, Differin
Applied toner morning and night for 14 days (I only used it for this much because at the time of testing this, I was at the 2 month mark for Differin. It’s recommended to use Differin for 3 months to see its results, so it was very risking removing it from my skincare routine).
I’m Finally Sharing my Current Skincare Routines 2018

Scent: It has a noticeable smell of mint, but it doesn’t overwhelm my senses and last. After using Google Translate, Peppermint Oil appears as the last ingredient.

Texture: Very watery. To compare, Klairs Supple Preparation Unscented Toner is more viscous.

Application:  As recommended by Some By Mi, use a cotton pad and wipe upwards. I applied about 4 douses each time. For my bad breakout areas I let the cotton pad sit for a bit on that area for maybe 30 seconds to get extra treatment.

Finish: None. It sinks into the skin pretty quickly and I don’t find this has any softening effect like Klairs.

Immediate Results: Overnight any active pimples including cysts decreased in size. Imparted a brightening effect after use, making the skin look slightly even.

Long-Term Results: Inflammation around spots subsided, decreased the size and lowered the risk of long-lasting hyperpigmentation.

Final Thoughts: Stunned. I wasn’t expecting this to work as well as it did around my acne. I wouldn’t consider this an acid toner however; The pH is 5.5 and the percentage of acids are too low to show significant exfoliating results. Overall this is perfect as a pH balanced toner with good skin ingredients that any one using would find beneficial. It could prevent future breakouts to an extent, but there’s a lot of factors that contribute to a breakout 🙂

WHERE TO BUY:
YesStyle
Style Korean

AHA/BHA/PHA 30 Days Miracle Cleansing Bar

sbm-bar

Note: The ingredients I’m about to list below is based on me using Google Translate’s app and highlighting the text area. This is NOT the official list and I can’t 100% guarantee the translation was correct.

Ingredient Highlights
Chlorella Powder: Antioxdiant, Emollient
Tea Tree Extract: Skin-Conditioning
Licorice Extract: Skin-soothing
Moisturizing: Olive Oil, Argan Oil, Green Tea Seed Oil

While using the GT app I didn’t seen any acids in the list…

Usage:
Used occasionally morning and night
Swapped it as either sole morning / post-workout cleanser, or second cleanse in my nighttime routine.

Scent: I don’t know how to explain this other than it smells like a natural soap. It’s not strong at all.

Texture: Not as stiff as a generic soap bar (let’s say Dove). Once lathered, the foam feels very soft on the skin.

IMG_20180723_123028.jpg
When I lathered more than necessary the first time lol

Application: Used with the foaming net and lathered it lightly between my hands. It produces a lot foaming lather really quickly, definitely better than using it without. Would wash my face with it for around a minute, including eye area.

Final Thoughts: My skin didn’t feel irritated at all while using this soap. I’m not a fan of using cleansing bars but this is definitely not a conventional one. I like the extra bit of moisture it provides and it’s overall very simple and gentle. This could wash off sunscreen, but I rely more on my cleansers with surfactants to do a better job with makeup removal.

WHERE TO BUY:
YesStyle
Style Korean

H7 Hydromax Cream

sbm-cream

Ingredient Highlights

Note: The ingredients I’m about to list below is based on me using Google Translate’s app and highlighting the text area. This is NOT the official list and I can’t 100% guarantee the translation was correct.

Ulleung Sea Water – 71%
Glycerin
Niacinamide
Various oils: Avocado, Jojoba Seed, Palm Oil,
Various plant extracts: Green Tea, Yam Root, Okra Fruit, Kelp, Lotus Root, Licorice, Chamomile Flower
7 types of Hyaluronic Acid: Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolized Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid (I can’t find the other 2)

Usage:
Used occasionally morning and night
Swapped with Hada Labo Perfect Gel as humectant moisturizer.

Texture: Light cream.

Scent: A noticeable smell of lemon as you apply it. Lemon Peel Oil translated at very end of IL. It does not last.

Application: Used nickel-sized amount and dotted it all over my face and neck. Spreads nicely and doesn’t irritate my eye area.

Finish: Slight tacky finish that leaves my skin feeling soft and smooth. Lighter than my Hada Labo Perfect Gel.

Final Thoughts: It’s a nice moisturizer more suitable for normal to oily skin types if you want to use it on its own. It performed nicely as a humectant moisturizer before going in with my occlusive one, but I love the Hada Labo Perfect Gel more.

WHERE TO BUY:
YesStyle
Style Korean

Final Feels

Usually when it comes to hyped up products, I am super critical. However I have to say Some By Mi products took me by surprise and their AHA/BHA/PHA 30 Day Miracle Toner gave me great results. I’d say the couple of issues with them are 1) Google Translate struggle was real and I hope Some By Mi eventually adds an English description and ingredients list to each of their products 2) Up the acids in their claimed acid products (but I guess that would rid it of its gentleness).

I think anyone can try this line, for all the products are really easy to incorporate in your existing routine and only provides skin benefits. But if I were to really pinpoint who these were meant for based on just these 3 products, definitely for the teens starting out in skincare that need a simple routine with gentle but effective products.

Speaking of trying…

GIVEAWAY TIME! [CLOSED]

IMG_20180723_120836.jpg

One winner will receive full size products of all the ones I just reviewed!
You’ll be receiving full-sized products of:
AHA/BHA/PHA 30 Day Miracle Toner
AHA/BHA/PHA 30 Day Miracle Cleansing Bar
H7 Hydromax Cream
There are many ways to enter and increase your chance of winning! Just be sure to provide the necessary information in the link down below.

SOME BY MI GIVEAWAY [CLOSED]

UPDATE 09/03/18: Giveaway is closed. Thanks for participating!

Terms of the Giveaway:
August 25th – September 2nd
International
Must be 18 years or older
No giveaway accounts
Winner will have 24 hours to reply
MICHXMASH and SOME BY MI are not responsible for customs fees or lost items.

Thank you Some By Mi for the opportunity to try your products, and giving the opportunity for someone else to as well!

Good luck everyone!

xo, M

REVIEW: Cosrx Clear Fit Blemish Cushion #23 Natural Beige

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StyleKorean sent me the Cosrx Clear Fit Blemish Cushion (shade #23 natural beige) to try out back in September. Despite posting a selfie with the product, I didn’t publish a review at the time because I couldn’t get over it not being my skin colour. I ended up wearing other products to match me so I put this cushion on hold until it was the middle of winter (which it is now) when I have a better chance at matching the product. I love Cosrx, they’re a very affordable and effective Korean cosmetics brand that really cater to us needy acne-prone skin peeps. So I was really happy to get a chance to review Cosrx’s first makeup product and share my thoughts with you now!

This post is unsponsored.
Product was sent for review purposes.
This post contains affiliate links. This means if you use this link to make a purchase, I make a small commission. Thanks for your support if you decide to use them! If you feel uncomfortable, feel free to google a new link.

All thoughts are my own, always. *casts doe patronus*

Description

“The cushion that not only covers acne prone skin but also calms and soothes

1. Contains trouble care and soothing essences to treat sensitive skin all the while providing excellent coverage

2. Provides perfect coverage to leave your skin looking flawless

3. Trouble & Acne Scarring Coverage + Calming + Care

4. Specialized for sensitive, acne-prone skin

Suggested Use:
Pat lightly over your skin using the enclosed puff
Active Ingredients:
Centella Asiatica Extract, Tea Tree Oil”
 Ingredients List:IMG_20180117_142339.jpg
Centella Asiatica Leaf Water: 2nd ingredient (21%)
Niacinamide: 9th ingredient (2%)
Tea Tree Oil: 22nd ingredient
Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract: 25th ingredient (50ppm)
$24 USD (~$30 CAD) 15g/0.52oz

Packaging and Amount

I really like the packaging. Soft square outline, sleek, and with a nice big mirror! If anything, the packaging does show off your finger prints rather quickly, but that’s only a concern for those that need to take photos of the product (like myself).
IMG_3044
The puff is pretty standard. The website says the part for the fingers is a little bigger than a usual puff. I personally like puffs, for they’re so effective at applying any complexion product evenly and doesn’t soak any of it up. Using a puff is also how you should ALWAYS apply cushion foundation by the way.
Now onto the 15g/0.52oz of product. This is a very standard amount in cushion foundations, but it does automatically give an “aww” feeling to those of us that know that a regular foundation is just over double that! Higher brands like Laneige offer a refill, so it’s a bit disappointing purchasing this wont. However I’ll touch on the amount in a bit as we continue on.

Testing the Product

Application

IMG_3050

For the love of Lee Min-Ho, do not press too hard into the compact. I did this the first time I used it and not only ended up with a full af coverage and cake face, I had a ton of product leftover on the puff that I could not put back into the compact! Light, minimal presses is key to making this cushion look REALLY good.

Coverage

(Lighting is altering colour of product. It doesn’t make my skin look darker by any means, it actually makes me look paler. This is one light layer applied)
Coverage is surprisingly and pleasantly natural. By that I mean, you can definitely get medium to full coverage, and it won’t look like you’re wearing product. Every time I used this cushion and asked my boyfriend or friends how my makeup looks, they could never tell I was wearing foundation.

FinishIMG_3057

The website again says matte, but I can’t agree. It’s satin finish at best. And I find saying matte will mislead the oily ones to think that this will be matte for a while. No no. You will get to dewville very fast while wearing this product! Although the product covers well even as it becomes dewy, this doesn’t help out my pores. At first it looks like it blurs them nicely but as the day goes on that look doesn’t last. It’s not like they look that awful, but it doesn’t look any better than what they originally look like. This also emphasizes dry patches off the bat. It’s particularly noticeable between my eyes!

Colour

23# natural beige is a very close match to the palest I can get, and this winter got me looking quite pale! When I originally tried this product I was definitely a medium skin tone, so the contrast of my face and everything else was too great. Hence, why it took so long for me to review this product! I wasn’t happy with the colour and I felt it unfair to judge that part of it because it was clear that it couldn’t blend into my skin properly. Now that I fall in the range of light in foundation shades, this colour matches my face spot on! I’m happy to see no funky kinda undertone *cough GREY* and it doesn’t make my skin look too white that there’s still significant contrast to my body.

Wear

Without powder or setting spray, and not doing many daily things, this will last a solid 8 hours on your face. That’s like a school/work day so it is a pass for me in longevity. Once it decides to actually fade, you can’t really tell on places where there is one layer of product. I put an extra layer on my chin (most problematic area), and I could tell by the end of the wear test that I had extra product in that area. I felt like I had a foundation goatee!

Extra Notes

Application for dry skin slightly problematic:
  • will cling to dry patches
  • reapplication will emphasize it more
  • using a setting powder will REALLY emphasize dryness
Oily skin problems / dewy problems:
  • This cushion becomes super dewy, you will be doing check-ups quite frequently.
  • It may fade faster, since it faded on my dry skin in time.
  • It doesn’t emphasize texture. It may emphasize the big bumps on your skin if you have, in which case, I would really precisely set certain areas to make sure that isn’t the case.

Between humid to dry weather, it’ll last longer in drier weather. It doesn’t look like you’re melting in humid weather, but if you’ll be outside all day, expect to touch-frequently.

Overall Opinion

IMG_3040

Despite the 15g of product, a little goes a long way with application to get good coverage. I’m also this shade for a certain period of time until I fall into the light-medium/medium range again, so it’ll last me the time I need it. Also, I personally pay $40-$60 CAD for foundation in general, so the price isn’t too awful for me.
I feel like the skincare ingredients actually worked. Any redness I have before applying the cushion is gone by the time I do my skincare routine. It doesn’t make a huge difference on my pimples, but it’s always a plus when a complexion product doesn’t contribute to clogged pores or exacerbating the problems of your current acne!
It still looks natural despite the medium to full coverage. I’m always aiming to look as natural as possible when applying makeup, so I feel like for anyone who has more acne than I do will be really happy with that!
Overall, the Cosrx Clear Fit Blemish Cushion is like a Monet: from far away it looks okay, but up close, it’s just a huge mess (please get my Clueless reference).
By this description I mean, it looks really good at a distance; makeup doesn’t look melted, I have a nice natural dew going on, and my skin still looks like my skin despite the medium to full coverage.
However, up close is where all the issues I have with this cushion. It really emphasizes my dry patches. As the day progresses, and my T-zone naturally gets oily, the product just remained in my pore area and everywhere else it disappeared. Also, when I layered the product on my chin, my most red and problematic area, it looked like I had a foundation beard at the end of the day and you could tell that you’re using something to cover up.
Despite the natural medium to full coverage, good colour match and undertone, and not aggravating my pimples, I can’t bring myself to want to buy this. The knitty gritty of how the cushion foundation looks bothers me too much. Part of me thinks it’s just not good for my age, because my skin seems to show more problems if I wear something with heavier coverage. If you’re younger than me (I’m 27 as I write this), this most likely will look better on you.
It’s quite a bit of a summary, but I do hope this review helps you decide whether or not the Cosrx Clear Fit Blemish cushion is something you’d want to buy!

Where you can buy the Cosrx Clear Fit Blemish Cushion:

StyleKorean

VIDEO VERSION:

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_aNFMDKhqmM]

 I hope this review helped you out! Let me know in the comments below if you recommend any other cushions for us acne-prone peeps!
xo, M

REVIEW: Consonant “One For All” Kit

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In light of Canada’s 150th birthday, I decided to browse Sephora with a 10% discount at hand for any limited edition products roaming about the website. Consonant is a brand that has been occasionally recommended to me by friends as a great Canadian, natural skincare brand. I love supporting Canadian products, and I love natural, so I decided to pick up Consonant’s limited edition One For All Kit.

Before reading up on this kit, I must point out that my skin has been around the block. And I mean, I went from oily af to chapped skin in a matter of a couple of years. If you are any skin type, my skin has probably been in your category at one point. Hopefully I provide enough info to cover concerns for all skin concerns, but for right now, mine are acne-prone and dry.

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Summer Essentials 2017 : Skincare, Makeup, Misc., and Many Mists!

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I feel like this summer I have some amazing products that will be in constant rotation in my skincare, makeup, and even hair routine! They just perform so well and I enjoy using them. And obviously, the bonus is they don’t do anything to aggravate my current skin concerns! They either just let my skin be, or contribute to its overall health. Below I listed my absolute musts for summer, including some alternatives.

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Reviewing Some of the Ordinary Skincare

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Since my last post, [The Ordinary Haul] Focus: Dry & Dehydrated, Acne-Prone, Texture, Prevent & Prolong, I have used day and night, non-stop, the following Ordinary products for one month:

Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2%
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

I know many people have already reviewed this brand, but in my previous post I mentioned my concerns are:

  • Dry & Dehydrated
  • Acne-Prone
  • Texture
  • Prevent & Prolong
With that in mind, I hope this post is more catered to you and helps you better understand the thoughts I have on these products.

I have used all of them day and night for just over a month. The lactic acid however had to be put aside when I went on vacation to Cuba for the week, but I used it a couple of times after.

MORNING:
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%

NIGHT:
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
HA, Azelaic, & Lactic in rotation (2/3 always used)

20170205123324_img_2136-2Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5
Use 1-2x a day
Feels like any other hyaluronic acid serum I’ve ever used. Momentary relief and then goes away. I actually purchased the Hyalimide a few days ago and notice it leaves my skin slightly softer and my skin feels a tad more rich with hydration. Truthfully I think I have been using this serum wrong. The air in my apartment and outside have been so dry, the HA has nowhere to draw moisture from except from within my skin, thus making my face feel drier. I gave the Ordinary HA to my boyfriend and will be continuing with the Hylamide.
20170205123310_img_2135-2Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1%
Use 1-2x a day
PORES: The effect it has on the pores are noticeable once applied, and it made me feel like it was only an “in the moment” effect that wouldn’t last. I still used it everyday the whole month to see if I was wrong.  Nick actually changed my thoughts when commented that my pores are a lot smaller compared to their size when we started dating.
FINE LINES: The dehyrated line on my forehead is almost non-existent! WOOHOO. And  the ones that *I* felt were developing around my nose and mouth have stopped in its tracks.
BLEMISHES: I thought it was working on my breakouts in a sense that it gets them poppable without any marks after. However, after  couple of weeks of using it day and night, it wore off. My breakouts were not controlled, and even some small cystic spots appeared. I went on vacation and didn’t change my routine. It still did nothing to control breakouts. I don’t think this causes breakouts at all, but it hasn’t really been doing anything for them. Maybe it’s something that will come in time, since niacinimide is all about helping the immunity of your skin.

Use 2-3x a week
All I know about this product is that it’s supposed to help with brightness and texture. I don’t like the mattifying effect because it makes my skin feel more dry. It also pills up like a MOFO even if you apply minimal amount or wait for a few minutes. I do not recommend this at all if you are going to follow up with a facial oil after, and be very mindful when applying moisturizer. My face however does appear to be smoother after using this consistently, althought I don’t think it had that big of an effect on my indented scars like the lactic acid serum.

20170205123256_img_2134-2Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2%
Used 3-5x a week at first, then 1-2x a week
The tazmanian pepperberry definitely helps with lowering irritation, although I have built a high tolerance for acids. My skin actually feels very smooth and soft after using this product a few times. I was using it almost every night before my vacation down south and decided to put it on hold since the equator sun is quite strong. The monkeys at the abnormal beauty company  recommended I use this 1-2 times a week and up the amount of product to use as a face mask so I’m not using it every night, and so my face doesn’t become significantly pale compared to my body. So far I have used a quarter-sized amount all over my face, left it on for 10 minutes and rinsed off. My face is left feeling and looking incredibly smooth! It’s also a bonus that it never dries out my skin when I leave it on. It’s definitely a method of application I’ll continue using. Even though the first 3 weeks I used it almost every night, my skin does not look thinner nor has the product ever dried me out while using it.

RESULTS

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LEFT: FEB 6, 2017 RIGHT: MAR 26, 2017

– Texture is improved; indented scars are less prominent, skin does not feel congested
– Skin is more even tone, have been using minimal makeup since using the serums consistently
– Doesn’t feel hydrated because the air is perpetually dry, but skin still feels very soft and not as chapped as it used to be, some slight relief of dehydration
– Skin does not look thinned out and weak
– Breakouts have not stopped; still get the occasional cystic spot
– Pores considerably smaller. (Without asking) Nick commented that my pores look smaller and I look younger because of how smooth my face looks (yayyyyy)
– I saw my friend who I bought this with over a month ago and she said she also noticed my face looked a lot smoother

Favourites from most to least:
Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2%- improves texture and quality of my skin
Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% –
Azelaic Acid Suspension 10% – pills like a mofo and truthfully I don’t know if this does anything for the longterm.
Hyaluronic acid 2% + B5 – Meh.

I like this brand and how it’s about potent, stabilized and safe ingredients, and the overall simplicity of the line. With the price point and and ability to layer 3 at a time, this is definitely a low-risk buy if you’re looking for something new.
I will continue using them all to the end, and still buy from the brand, and will definitely update on a post about “Ordinary Empties” to give my final thoughts.

I recently bought Hylamide Booster Low-Molecular HA ($20.00 CAD) to see if it’s more potent and powerful than the Ordinary HA 2% + B5; I also picked up the Ordinary Alpha Arbutin 2% + HA ($8.90 CAD) to help fade my hyper-pigmentation marks and prevent age spots!

And that’s that! Hope you enjoyed the review, definitely let me know if there’s something I must try from Deciem, and I’l blog for you soon.

WATCH THE VIDEO FOR DEMO:

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aDf5syFRmT8]

xo, M

www.ordinaries.com

Not sponsored. Not affiliated. I took it upon myself to review this day and nigh for a month because GOSH DARN I couldn’t believe!

REVIEW: Josh Rosebrook Deep Hydrating Serum

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Hey everyone,

At the beginning of the year I made a spendy purchase and bought the Josh Rosebrook Deep Hydrating Serum. Josh Rosebrook is well known for having products with pure, organic ingredients with zero toxicity results in his formulas. I was running out of my current facial oil, so I thought this would be an amazing replacement!

The price is quite high ($105 CAD) considering it is a 1oz (30ml) bottle.

I have used it consistently for about 2 months, mostly mornings morning and sometimes night, and now it’s time for a review.

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Skincare Series 1.1: My Daily Skincare Routine

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Hello, It’s Me…..

Here’s my updated skincare routine on products that I have used exclusively and consistently from July 2015 to almost a year. I needed to find products that would tackle the superficial breakouts I was experiencing on my chin, as well as the utter dehydration and tightness I constantly felt. I could not bare the thought of having cystic acne again, so this routine also had to be something that was preventative as well. My original go to routine (One Routine to Rule Them All) for intense breakouts was not hydrating enough for my skin, so I had to revamp my approach to a new skincare routine. The key to this was to find gentle, yet highly effective products, with a good ingredient list. I didn’t want to just turn to my local Shoppers Drug Mart and get over-the-counter products filled with benzoyl peroxide. I find products like those clear my face, but also make my skin thinner and weaker. Plus, my skin would become “addicted”  to the medical ingredient, meaning if I wanted to keep up a clear face, I could never sway from it. I wanted to rebuild the strength of my skin, and slowly ween my way off of any intense treatments that I’d have to rely on.

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