Project Make a Dent No. 4 | End Results

12:18:00 AM mandy 0 Comments

Typically this project update would be the last post (as close to the last day) I make in the year. It is supposed to be the culmination of my efforts during a 12 month period. This year I had to cut the time short some because of unexpected familial events. Nevertheless, a goal is a goal and a report is necessary.



I would say a pat on the back and round of applause are much deserved at the end of this fourth Project Make a Dent. Most of the items I thought would pan out or be used well did. At this point though I think I have to come to terms with the fact that certain items will either be with me forever or have to be tossed out due to old age.

VDL MULE Ultimate Cover Palette A03

After I used the last bits of the coral blush in this palette, I decided to set the foundation down and move onto other "new" old items in my stash. I had collected a bunch of cushion refills when in Korea 3 years ago and most were unopened. For what it was worth, I think I made a good dent in the foundation portion of the VDL and MULE collaboration.

Kate Lasting High Coverage Powder Foundation OC-C

Nothing new here. The Kate powder was used up by June and quickly replaced with a Laura Mercier loose powder. I forgot to take photos of the Before and therefore didn't do the After but it is slowly being finished now.

Skinfood Salmon Dark Circle Powder

The end result photo looks misleading. It seems like there is a lot of loose powder left in the concave dip there but rest assure there isn't anything. I can't imagine how long this Skinfood powder would have actually lasted me if I used it for setting the under eyes alone. After using 2 loose powders in a year, I am 100% I will not repurchase any of that type any time soon.

MAC Cosmetics Mineralized Skinfinish in Pink Power

I did say I had given up using more of the highlighter and blush portions of this limited edition compact six months ago yet here I am with even less of those shades. What can I say? The 3-in-1 factor is great when I want to travel light. It covers the whole face, eyelids and all.

The bronzer shade has come so far in the 2+ years I have tried to make a dent in it. Even in June it barely looked like it was flattening out. Only now can I say for sure I have dipped the dome. Maybe it will take another year to completely see the pan?

Milani Minerals Blushes in Sweet Rose and Luminous & MAC Cosmetics My Highland Honey

I planned to swap My Highland Honey with Milani's Luminous (supposedly NARS Orgasm dupe) to use from September to December but I ended up loving the orangey blush look more than I thought. Once I finally tired of the look I moved onto a different cream blush altogether. Go figure!

Even though the dusty rose and orange shades were used aplenty over the course of the year it doesn't really show because of just how pigmented both were. Perhaps that is why I lost interest in trying to make a larger dent in them as the year came to an end?

VDL Tint Bar Triple Shot in 502 Triple Burgundy and 101 Triple Pink

The one area I completely dropped the ball in was with this duo. These became an afterthought once I discovered the JUNGSAEMMOOL and Maybelline lipsticks. Since it's been 4+ years since I bought, opened, and used the Tint Bar Triple Shot lippies it is about time to say goodbye.

Urban Decay Naked Palette

I have yet to see the pan in any of the shades but the dents in a few of them have deepened over the 6 months period. As the year progressed, I applied less noticeable eyeshadow and veered towards the skin-like matte shades that are Naked and Buck. It is a regression that definitely won't help me use more of the entire palette in the next year. Maybe I have to switch to something else for a while to regain some motivation for the original Naked Palette?

Becca Cosmetics Beach Tint in Lychee

My unannounced new addition to the PMAD. I didn't take a before shot but think of it as almost new. I forgot how long ago I had purchased this until I went down memory lane on the blog over the summer (early 2013). When I took it out and started to use it again, about 50% that came out of the tube was a separated mess of a product. It wasn't until after that was dumped did I get a consistency I had fond memories of. I am just glad I was able to "use it up" and will keep in mind to not neglect cream blushes from this point forward.

Abib Hydration gel & Hydration crème

8:05:00 PM mandy 0 Comments

Pitting two moisturizers against one another was never my intention. I bought both the Abib Hydration gel and Hydration crème because the former sounded like it would fit humidity and oilier skin better and the latter in drier conditions. Curiosity got the better of me and I experimented with applying both at once, each on either side of my face and neck, in all weather and skin conditions to potentially see how much they differed from one another. The results were unexpected, to say the least.





Peach & Lily + *Abib's description:

Gel
Crafted with natural ingredients and no toxic additives, this lightweight gel sinks deep into the skin, providing thirsty complexions with all-over hydration. The brand's proprietary aqua holding gel matrix actively hydrates the skin with hyaluronic acid, coconut oil, and shea butter. Made specifically for sensitive skin, cactus flower extract assists in protecting delicate skin and helps to maintain its healthy state.

Crème
With 20 natural ingredients and no toxic additives, Abib's Hydration Crème Water Tube is a powerful moisturizer. The brand's proprietary aqua holding gel matrix actively moisturizes the skin with natural hydrants like hyaluronic acid, coconut oil, and shea butter, while replenishing essential moisture to the skin. Ingredients like niacinamide, moringa extract, and mushroom extract provide protection against the signs of aging and help keep skin firm and smooth. The crème is designed to be used as the last step of your skincare routine to form a protective, hydrating layer.

*Polymer Network System // Polymers release water that moisturizers and transport nutrients into your skin, while minimizing the loss due to air friction. In a rolling technique, the nutrients penetrate deeply into the skin, while moisturizing the skin. After absorbing, your skin will feel the tingling sensation of the aqua gel doing its work to protect your skin.

*Aluminum tube minimizes the exposure of bacteria, keeping the ingredients safe and contained. Also has a sturdy inner tube made of LPDE material.

*If cream turns white as you rub, quickly tap your face with your fingertips to allow absorption.

Directions
1. Cleanse and tone skin.
2. Squeeze out a pea-sized amount and lightly tap onto face using your fingertips.
3. Allow the cream to absorb into your skin and apply more if needed. (It is better to apply often in smaller amounts than at once in abundance.)

Ingredients
Gel
WATER, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, CYCLOPENTASILOXANE, GLYCERIN, DIMETHICONE, DIPROPYLENE GLYCOL, CYCLOHEXASILOXANE, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, CHONDRUS CRISPUS EXTRACT, SACCHARUM OFFICINARUM (SUGARCANE) EXTRACT, LIMNANTHES ALBA (MEADOWFOAM) SEED OIL, TREMELLA FUCIFORMIS (MUSHROOM) EXTRACT, CEREUS GRANDIFLORUS (CACTUS) FLOWER EXTRACT, MORINGA PTERYGOSPERMA SEED EXTRACT, PORTULACA OLERACEA EXTRACT, NIACINAMIDE, CETYL ETHYLHEXANOATE, DICAPRYLYL CARBONATE, HYDROGENATED POLYISOBUTENE, POLYACRYLATE-13, HYDROXYETHYL ACRYLATE/SODIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE COPOLYMER, GLYCERYL STEARATE, PEG-100 STEARATE, AMMONIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYLTAURATE/VP COPOLYMER, POLYGLYCERYL-3 METHYLGLUCOSE DISTEARATE, POLYISOBUTENE, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, PALMITIC ACID, STEARIC ACID, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, POLYSORBATE 20, SORBITAN ISOSTEARATE, STEARYL ALCOHOL, DISODIUM EDTA, PHENOXYETHANOL

Crème
WATER, GLYCERIN, DICAPRYLYL CARBONATE, CETEARYL ALCOHOL, ETHYLHEXYL PALMITATE, NIACINAMIDE, MACADAMIA INTEGRIFOLIA SEED OIL, COCOS NUCIFERA (COCONUT) OIL, CAMELLIA JAPONICA SEED OIL, BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII (SHEA) BUTTER, PORTULACA OLERACEA EXTRACT, CEREUS GRANDIFLORUS (CACTUS) FLOWER EXTRACT, TREMELLA FUCIFORMIS (MUSHROOM) EXTRACT, MORINGA PTERYGOSPERMA SEED EXTRACT, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, CETEARYL GLUCOSIDE, PENTYLENE GLYCOL, POLYGLYCERYL-3 METHYLGLUCOSE DISTEARATE, GLYCERYL STEARATE, AMMONIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYLTAURATE/VP COPOLYMER, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, PANTHENOL, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, TROMETHAMINE, ADENOSINE, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, SODIUM PCA, SODIUM HYALURONATE, CARBOMER, XANTHAN GUM

Gel & Crème 75ml / 2.53 fl. oz.

Abib (Korean retail): ₩39,000
Peach & Lily: USD $42.00
StyleKorean: USD $41.73

Packaging

Pliable metal tubes with a twist on plastic cap. Abib says it is an aluminum case surrounding a separate plastic tube on the inside. I generally prefer things to be in tube format rather than a jar as there is less introduction of germs but I am not sure I like the metal tube more than an all plastic one. It does get difficult to squeeze the tube to its flattest state and the typical plastic tube squeezers are no match against the metal; a metal tube squeezer key works best.

Having the expiration date stamped on the crimp of the tube makes life easier. However, keeping it too long shouldn't be a problem anyways with regular use as the tube isn't abnormally large. I found it strange that the boxes were well sealed, on the top and bottom, yet only the crème tube had the inner product seal. I wonder if it was an odd batch?

Don't be fooled by the "ingredients" list on the front of the tube. It is merely a highlight of the special ingredients in the formulation of either gel or crème and not the full ingredients list (which can be found on the back of the tube in smaller lettering).

Color, Texture, Finish & Scent

Gel
Looks opaque but is more of a translucent white gel. It is very lightweight and easily spreadable. The gel becomes very watery as it is spread around and looks quite dewy before it is fully absorbed. Even after the skin soaks it up, there is a teeny bit of tackiness and sheen but nothing unbearable. There isn't a discernable scent despite all the oils and extracts in the formulation.

Crème
Compared to the gel, this is a more opaque white lotion that is surprisingly also lightweight and easily spreadable. Like the gel, there isn't much of a scent. Once absorbed it leaves a smooth and soft finish similar to silicone-based primers yet this is formulated without. It doesn't leave any tackiness or residue.

Note: If the crème is rubbed into the skin a little too forcibly, white streaks do form. But that does go away as the product is absorbed by the skin. I found that patting the moisturizer in, as Abib suggests, helps a lot. Otherwise, I personally like light strokes/swipes in one direction to avoid the lotion streaks altogether. The gel doesn't have this problem. Neither pill under makeup.

How I Apply

I squeeze a pea-sized amount, or two if necessary, dot it around my face and neck, and lightly smooth the gel or crème until I have a light even layer.

Thoughts & Recommendations

I started the gel and crème as summer started to wind down; days were still long, hot, and moderately humid for New York while my skin was at its oiliest (but not overbearing). The two tubes were well used day and night well into the windy, cold, and dry winter days. The differences I saw between the left (gel) and right (crème) sides of my face were almost indiscernible.

The typically oily areas of my face (forehead, cheeks, and nose) felt equally soft and moisturized when using. Neither moisturizers broke me out nor irritated my eyes or skin. Both were so lightweight and absorbed well. Other than the initial dewy versus soft matte finish, the only minuscule difference I noticed was maybe the crème side with makeup looked less cakey hours later than the gel side did. On the typically drier and flakier parts of my face (mouth and chin), the crème side seemed to hold its moisture better until the end of the day.

Both products ultimately give confusingly similar results despite their textures and ingredients. I imagined the gel to be great for oily skin given its lightweight and watery consistency but the tackier finish is definitely not what oilier skin types prefer. Likewise, I thought the crème would be nice for dry skin since it has richer and more occlusive ingredients like coconut oil and shea butter yet it is so lightweight and gives a matte finish.

It is hard to say which would be best for one specific skin type given the results I got. The easiest answer would be to say those with combination skin are in for a treat with either tube. The next best case scenario would be to pick depending on what kind of finish is most desirable since they hydrate oily and dry-ish skin about the same. I personally don't think either would work the best for those with extremely parched and flaky skin but take that thought with a grain of salt since I didn't get a chance to experience that extreme of a condition with the gel or crème before I ran out of moisturizer.

Using the Abib Hydration gel and Hydration crème was nice while it lasted. It was a great buy at the price I purchased them for, which was USD $10 each during the Peach & Lily sample sale in 2017. However, it seems too basic of a moisturizer at USD $42 to warrant a repurchase. (Abib doesn't claim either to do anything special outside of deep hydration and both have minimal to no actives like vitamins and the like.) For those who use actives-heavy serums, the gel and crème is a simple but effective option to help seal everything in.

innisfree My Hair Refreshing Exfoliating Oil

12:24:00 AM mandy 0 Comments

Haircare seems to finally be making its rounds in the beauty trends this year. In Korea specifically, all the rage was for scalp care in particular. I will be the first to admit my lack of experience when it comes to my locks...let alone the roots and surface it sprouts from. The timing couldn't have been more perfect as I have finally come to the conclusion that my eternally oily head deserves some attention as well. innisfree's My Hair Refreshing Exfoliating Oil promises to tackle just that by clearing gunk which may lead to the overproduction of oils on the head.



innisfree's description:

Cleansing oil with a clean and refreshing scent helps remove excess oil from the scalp while it deeply conditions hair.

Cleanse your sebum-prone scalp with this unique oil complete with Salicylic Acid to help exfoliate the dead skin cells that trap excess oil.

A complex of Peppermint Leaves, Nutmeg and Caraway Oils help soothe the scalp so it feels refreshed and healthy.

Free of silicone. Formulated With Jeju Pine, Cedar and Cypress Tree Extracts, Peppermint Leaves, Nutmeg and Caraway Oils.

Directions
1. Shake well before use. Apply the oil over the entire scalp, using the hair parts as a guide.
2. Depending on the scalp, leave oil to absorb for 3-5 minutes, then gently massage with fingertips to fully absorb.
3. Rinse off with warm water, then use 1.5 times the usual amount of shampoo to thoroughly lather and rinse scalp and hair.

Ingredients
WATER, ALCOHOL, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, HYDROGENATED POLY(C6-14 OLEFIN), FRAGRANCE, ETHYLHEXYL METHOXYCINNAMATE, MENTHOL, SALICYLIC ACID, SODIUM CHLORIDE, POLYSORBATE 20, HELIANTHUS ANNUUS (SUNFLOWER) SEED OIL, MENTHOXYPROPANEDIOL, TOCOPHEROL, DIPOTASSIUM GLYCYRRHIZATE, SODIUM CITRATE, GLYCERIN, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, CAMELLIA SINENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, THUJA ORIENTALIS SEED EXTRACT, PHENOXYETHANOL, ARTEMISIA VULGARIS EXTRACT, OLEIC ACID, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, CAMELLIA JAPONICA LEAF EXTRACT, CITRUS UNSHIU PEEL EXTRACT, OPUNTIA COCCINELLIFERA FRUIT EXTRACT, ORCHID EXTRACT, ACORUS CALAMUS ROOT EXTRACT, CHAMAECYPARIS OBTUSA WATER, CINNAMOMUM CAMPHORA (CAMPHOR) LEAF EXTRACT, CRYPTOMERIA JAPONICA LEAF EXTRACT, PINUS PINASTER BARK/BUD EXTRACT

innisfree (Korean retail): ₩12,000
innisfree (American retail): USD $15.00

Packaging

Squeezable plastic bottles with a screw-on cap and a pointed tip applicator. Each box comes with 3 tubes, each tube has enough product for 4 uses. The suggested usage amount is conveniently marked on all the bottles.

Color, Texture, & Scent

In it's resting state, the exfoliating oil consists of a clear watery layer and a greenish yellow oil layer. After it's been mixed and shaken up, the liquid is a cloudier emulsion of sorts. It is a very runny product. It is not overly oily or sticky. It has an herby, woodsy, and extremely strong mint scent that tends to linger until washed away with shampoo.

How I Apply

Shake the bottle well to incorporate the oil and water layer together. Part my hair, picking either the left or right side, and lightly shake the bottle so droplets of the concoction directly fall onto my scalp along the part whilst ruffling and massaging my roots to spread the liquid around. Continue sectioning my hairline and applying until I reach the opposite side of my head. If there is any remaining product left, I flip my hair over and apply it along the backside of my scalp. I wait the recommended 5 minutes and proceed to thoroughly wash my hair with, also as suggested, double amount of shampoo.

Use once a week, twice max.

Thoughts & Recommendations

I can't say that the innisfree My Hair Refreshing Exfoliating Oil did not work. It did what their description said, refresh and lift dead skin cells. The scalp treatment just didn't do what I imagined it would do, banish my oily roots for good. My fault really for wishing something that the brand doesn't promise to begin with. (This isn't to say it can't help people with their oily hair. If anything, the results would be consequential from regular exfoliation and not directly due to the product itself.)

There is a noticeable difference in how less gunky, heavy, and itchy my hair feels the immediate days following usage versus the days later into the week before my next exfoliation wash. My scalp and hair feel much lighter if that makes sense. I don't think it helps remove all dandruff and dead skin because I do see some flakes after use, there is just a lot less than if I had relied solely on non-dandruff targeting shampoo.

I like that my hair and roots don't feel stripped of oils and moisture as one would expect something targeted for oily hair to do. I love the fact that the exfoliation only has a short waiting time before I could wash it away. I appreciate that it washes out easily and there is no residue nor heaviness left behind.

The runny, watery texture has a learning curve. It cannot be applied in large amounts and not worked into the roots and scalp—gravity will bring it running down the face and neck, not allowing it to do its job on the scalp. While I found a workaround for the fluidity of the product, I disliked and continue to not prefer the overwhelming minty scent. I bear with it since I only have to keep the liquids on my head for 5 minutes at a time.

Something that is also concerning but not an issue I can really tackle is SPF protection for the scalp after using the exfoliating oil. Since there is salicylic acid (BHA) in its formulation, skin can theoretically become more sensitive to UV rays.

I would say this is not a bad beginning towards my first foray into scalp exfoliation. Not overly expensive and does what it claims moderately well. I would recommend it to those with itchy scalps and/or heavy hair from hair styling product or skin buildup. I think I may revisit these in the future. But in the meantime, I will keep an eye out for similar items with hopefully a less minty aroma.

November Hauls

12:02:00 AM mandy 0 Comments

I think I can proudly say I didn't get sucked into the beauty related Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals this month. Even though there were some good discounts for Peach & Lily, Soko Glam, and Sephora I reminded myself of all the stuff I have yet to open and reigned myself back.

The few things I did get this month were with coupons, on sale (outside of the holiday ones), or were given to me as gifts. What's new?

Purchased:
Maybelline Tattoo Studio Brow Tint Pen - 365 Deep Brown Orig. $9.99 After Coupon(s) $4.24
Maybelline Total Temptations Brow Definer - 315 Deep Brown Orig. $7.99 After Coupon(s) $3.49
Heimish Bulgarian Rose Water Mist Mist Orig. $24 Sale + After Coupon(s) $9.99
Neutrogena Light Therapy Acne Spot Treatment Orig. $24.49 After Coupon(s) $15.99

Gifts:
Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate Orig. $100
miacare Acne Patch x5 Orig. RMB ~$18 each

Benton Honest Tea Tree Mist

12:18:00 AM mandy 0 Comments

At first, I was captivated by the innovative design. Benton's Honest Tea Tree Mist even sounds and looks like the answer to my dehydrated, acne-prone skin. Then, a single trait turned the product into something I didn't look forward to using. It was a packaging choice that turned me away, ironically; just not the one that attracted me.



Benton's description:

Benton Tea Tree Mist contains Tea Tree Leaf Water, Hyaluronic Acid, and various botanical extracts to provide instant hydration while leaving skin refreshed and clear.

- Skin with dehydration and tightness
- Skin with poor-oil water balance
- Skin that needs improvement and protection from damage
- Skin that needs a water-based product due to excess sebum
- Skin that is irritated and needs soothing/hydration
- Delicate skin that is sensitive to harmful chemicals and external stressors

- Beneficial skin types: For all skin types
- Bottle type: Plastic tube vacuum spray
- pH: Slightly Acidic pH
- Viscosity: Liquid type
- Scent: Unscented (Free of Chemical Fragrance)
- Color: Transparent (Free of Chemical Coloring)

Directions
Using as a skin toner // When you spray to your skin directly, please spray from about 30cm distances and then softly pat your face to help your skin to absorb the product. You can use your palm or cotton pad.

Using as a mist // Please pump from more than about 30cm distances. Please spray over your face instead of spraying directly to your skin after applying the makeup. You can apply it from time to time when you feel your skin dry.

Ingredients
MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA (TEA TREE) LEAF WATER, WATER, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, GLYCERIN, PENTYLENE GLYCOL, SODIUM HYALURONATE, MELALEUCA ALTERNIFOLIA (TEA TREE) EXTRACT, ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF JUICE, ALTHAEA ROSEA ROOT EXTRACT, ALOE BARBADENSIS LEAF EXTRACT, BETA-GLUCAN, POLYGLUTAMIC ACID, ASPALATHUS LINEARIS EXTRACT, PORTULACA OLERACEA EXTRACT, PSIDIUM GUAJAVA FRUIT EXTRACT, ZANTHOXYLUM PIPERITUM FRUIT EXTRACT, PULSATILLA KOREANA EXTRACT, USNEA BARBATA (LICHEN) EXTRACT

Mist 80 ml / 2.70 oz *New*
Mist 40 ml / 1.35 oz

Benton (Korean retail - 80ml): ₩16,000
Benton (USA retail - via eBay - 80ml): USD $19.00
Benton (USA retail - via eBay - 40ml): USD $11.00
oo35mm (40ml): USD $11.99
Soko Glam (40ml): USD $11.00

Packaging

Unique vacuum tube with a spray nozzle attachment. This is the first I have seen it for any mist and theoretically, a great choice as the tube is malleable and could suck every drop of liquid out as it is sprayed. The nozzle part is not removable which makes the seal airtight and leak free; plus, it is great size and design to keep as a travel mist.

Color, Texture, Finish, & Scent

The liquid is colorless and orderless. It feels just like water—no tackiness, no residue. Skin doesn't become dewy or matte, just softer and more hydrated.

How I Apply

In-between skincare steps // Especially between cleansing and toning because I tend to wait a while before toner and my skin gets tight and dry during that time.

On my dry chapped hands // Helps relieve tightness I get during the cold weather without the residue like with lotion.

Thoughts & Recommendations

Mists can be kind of boring. The effects are fleeting and formulations strikingly similar. I have a deep appreciation for brands who choose to differentiate via packaging selection. When it works, it is perfection. When it doesn't, the product itself is overshadowed by poorly functioning delivery.

Sadly the latter is where the Benton Honest Tea Tree Mist fits. The formulation is alright: lightweight, non-sticky, and non-irritating (both for skin and eyes). I love that I don't have to angle the bottle every which way to spritz every last drop of liquid out. But the mist the nozzle gives feels like I am attacked by a weak water gun (a more dramatic analogy yet not without some truths); it is a short and strong burst that results in large drops of liquid on my face rather than cloud minuscule droplets.

This version of Benton's mist doesn't have the most pleasant user experience. It does seem like the brand has recently released a larger version in a more typical looking plastic, transparent mist bottle with the same formulation that may be more worth checking out.

Like the ATOCLASSIC mist, I think sensitive skin folks and those ingredient-conscious would probably love this spray because it is free of fragrance, parabens, and essential oils. I wouldn't recommend the 40ml version based on the mist nozzle alone. It is also quite a small amount of product for the price (~USD $11). If the nozzle were improved upon I may have a change of heart and keep one handy for carrying around.

Daily Look | Fall Vibes

12:16:00 AM mandy 0 Comments

I call this the Autumn look but, truth be told, I've been sporting this color palette since the summer; orange, brown, and gold are versatile shades and effortlessly compatible with either season. It seems to go well with both my tanned skin tone and, now, slightly lighter tone. Paired with loose waves that veer brown-ish under bright sunlight, this continues to be my styling of choice at the moment.

Looking at this photo makes me itch to dye my hair a chocolatey brown shade with a wavy perm. Knowing me though, I would be terrible at upkeeping colored and damaged hair.





Redness is always an issue on my face. Typically it is the residual effects of acne while most other times it is just blotchiness. I use the MAYBELLINE Master Camo Color Correcting Pen 10 Green to target said spots and blend it out with the JUNGSAEMMOOL Essential Star-cealer Foundation Puff. I spread about half a pump of the JUNGSAEMMOOL Essential Star-cealer Foundation in Medium Deep in the compact itself, lightly dab it onto the JSM puff, and stamp it onto my face (starting from the inner regions and moving towards the outer areas). If I feel like I need more coverage for under the eyes, around the nose, or on other discoloration then I will take a brush and work the included concealer into my routine as well. I apply a light wash of the BECCA Cosmetics Beach Tint in Lychee on my cheeks. Then set my entire base with a light dusting of the Skinfood Salmon Dark Circle Powder. I apply the bronzer shade from MAC Cosmetics Mineralize Skinfinish in Pink Power under my cheekbones and on the temples of my face. MAC Cosmetics My Highland Honey is the main focal point of the look, in my opinion, so I generously apply it to my cheeks. I smooth the Benefit Cosmetics Watt's Up! on the tip of my nose, on top of my cheekbones, and in the space above (but between) my eyebrows for highlight.

My eye makeup is far more simple in comparison. I mix Urban Decay eyeshadows in Naked and Buck before applying all over the eyelid and the lower lash line. Then I sweep some of Half Baked onto the middle-ish section of my lids space, following with Dark Horse in the outer corners of the eyes. Since my eyelids are constantly fluctuating between double and triple folds, I stick to my version of tight-lining with the Revlon Colorstay Eye Liner in Black Brown to avoid creasing issues. I end the makeup look by filling in my natural brow shape with the innisfree Brow Master Pencil in Gray.

September & October Hauls

12:06:00 AM mandy 0 Comments

The past couple of months haven't been very exciting in terms of beauty purchases. I realize I don't need much in my stash after, basically, overdosing from the Peach & Lily sale. The purchases I ended up making were mostly due to sales and coupons to fill in for categories I couldn't/didn't shop at the sample sale.

UO had a bunch of random beauty sales through the month and I racked up a bunch of $5 coupons from their, relatively new, revamped UO Rewards system (which is still pretty ambiguous but not terrible). Bestie C offered her 15% VIB code during the Appreciation Event in September and I took the opportunity to finally get a scalp scrub to try against my oily hair.

Urban Outfitters purchase:
stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner - Intense Black Orig. $22 Sale $18
ohii mini mascara Orig. $16 Sale $14
NatureLab Perfect Volume Texture Mist Orig. $12 Sale $10
TONYMOLY Dr.Logy Blemish Pair Capsule Ampoule Orig. $24 Sale $10.49

Miscellaneous:
Christophe Robin Cleansing Purifying Scrub with Seat Salt Orig. $24 Sale $10.49
Nexcare Acne Patches "souvenirs" from Aunt's Taiwan trip x12

be the skin Botanical Nutrition Power Toner & Serum

12:15:00 AM mandy 0 Comments

When someone says they've been using a product for five years and it can transform Sahara-dry-skin, it must be that amazing and needs to be tested immediately. Reviews and Alicia Yoon herself all rave about be the skin's Botanical Nutrition Power line for soothing dry skin. It seemed perfect for the constant flakes I have which only gets worse as the weather becomes cooler and drier. After using the toner and serum in both hot/humid and cold/dry weather, I unexpectedly prefer one (product and weather) over the other.






Peach & Lily's description:

Toner
A royal-jelly infused toner with all-natural ingredients that balance the skin's pH levels and hydrates the skin while helping to improve skin's firmness. Delivers moisture into the skin and gently preps for serums and lotions.

Appropriate for all skin types. Ideal for dry skin.

Serum
This serum draws on botanical herbs that have been used for thousands of years in Asian history to hydrate and help with signs of aging skin. This best-selling serum helps impart moisture and radiance to dry, dull skin.

Ideal for dry skin.

Directions
Toner
Cleanse face thoroughly then pat dry. Place a dime size amount of toner either (1) in the palm of your hand and pat onto face or (2) on a cotton pad or ball and swipe over skin. Follow up with the remaining steps of skincare routine.

Serum
Cleanse and tone face. Apply 1-2 pumps of serum all over face or concentrate to dryer areas. Gently pat product into the skin with fingertips. Follow with Botanical Nutrition Power Cream for best results.

Ingredients
Toner
WATER, LAURUS NOBILIS LEAF EXTRACT, PENTYLENE GLYCOL, GLYCERIN, POLYGLYCERYL-10 EICOSANEDIOATE/TETRADECANEDIOATE, BIOSACCHARIDE GUM-4, POLYMETHYLSILSESQUIOXANE, ARGININE, PIPER METHYSTICUM LEAF/ROOT/STEM EXTRACT, HAMAMELIS VIRGINIANA (WITCH HAZEL) LEAF EXTRACT, ARTEMISIA UMBELLIFORMIS EXTRACT, BUDDLEJA DAVIDII EXTRACT, THYMUS VULGARIS (THYME) FLOWER/LEAF EXTRACT, HONEY EXTRACT, ROYAL JELLY EXTRACT, ARNICA MONTANA FLOWER EXTRACT, CUCUMIS SATIVUS (CUCUMBER) FRUIT EXTRACT, HEDERA HELIX (IVY) EXTRACT, SAMBUCUS NIGRA FLOWER EXTRACT, MALVA SYLVESTRIS (MALLOW) FLOWER EXTRACT, PARIETARIA OFFICINALIS EXTRACT, PEG-60 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL, HYDROXYETHYL ACRYLATE/SODIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE COPOLYMER, ACRYLATES/C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, ILLICIUM VERUM (ANISE) FRUIT EXTRACT, SCUTELLARIA BAICALENSIS ROOT EXTRACT, FRAGRANCE

Serum
WATER, GLYCERIN, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, DIMETHICONE, SQUALANE, BUTYLENE GLYCOL DICAPRYLATE/DICAPRATE, LAURUS NOBILIS LEAF EXTRACT, GLYCERYL ACRYLATE/ACRYLIC ACID COPOLYMER, PROPYLENE GLYCOL, DISODIUM ADENOSINE TRIPHOSPHATE, ALGIN, CARICA PAPAYA (PAPAYA) FRUIT EXTRACT, SCUTELLARIA BAICALENSIS ROOT EXTRACT, PAEONIA SUFFRUTICOSA ROOT EXTRACT, GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA (LICORICE) ROOT EXTRACT, PEG-60 HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL, SORBITAN STEARATE, SUCROSE COCOATE, SODIUM HYALURONATE, ARNICA MONTANA FLOWER EXTRACT, CUCUMIS SATIVUS (CUCUMBER) FRUIT EXTRACT, HEDERA HELIX (IVY) EXTRACT, SAMBUCUS NIGRA FLOWER EXTRACT, MALVA SYLVESTRIS (MALLOW) FLOWER EXTRACT, PARIETARIA OFFICINALIS EXTRACT, PORTULACA OLERACEA EXTRACT, PERILLA OCYMOIDES SEED EXTRACT, HONEY EXTRACT, ROYAL JELLY EXTRACT, ARTEMISIA UMBELLIFORMIS EXTRACT, BUDDLEJA DAVIDII EXTRACT, THYMUS VULGARIS (THYME) FLOWER/LEAF EXTRACT, SODIUM ACRYLATE/SODIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE COPOLYMER, ISOHEXADECANE, POLYSORBATE 80, ARGININE, CARBOMER, XANTHAN GUM, HYDROXYETHYL ACRYLATE/SODIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE COPOLYMER, FRAGRANCE

Toner 150 ml

be the skin (Korean retail): ₩37,000
Peach & Lily: USD $29.00

Serum 50 ml

be the skin (Korean retail): ₩40,000
Peach & Lily: USD $39.00

Packaging

Both toner and serum come in orange-tinted glass bottles; the former has a screw-on cap while the latter has a pump. The expiration dates are clearly printed on the bottom of both bottles and each come with a seal/pump lock.

Judging from the packaging choices alone, the brand gives off a very luxe feel. It isn't great for anyone on the go but it looks brilliant on a vanity. The toner's bottle design fits the texture of the product well; vicious liquid won't easily run out and offers a degree of control. I would have preferred if the serum came in something different though; while the tube inside is thankfully curved and completely reaches the bottom I still had to forcefully shake and tap the remnant serums into that specific corner in order to use everything up.

Color, Texture, Finish, & Scent

Toner is a vicious liquid straight out of the bottle. It gets more watery as body heat is introduced. There is no tackiness or residue left behind and soaks into the skin easily. No matter if swiped across skin with cotton or directly pat into the skin, the toner leaves a matte finish and skin is immediately softer. This has a strong herb and witch hazel scent which can be overpowering if applying multiple layers of the toner.

Serum is a thicker liquid that leans gel-like. It also holds its shape well until body heat is added into the mix, at which point it spreads like butter. There is an initial silicone slippery feel and dewiness to it but both go away as the serum is absorbed into the skin. Compared to the toner, the scent of the serum is more faint and refreshing.

How I Apply

I prefer to put a few drops of the toner onto a cotton round an wipe my face after cleansing. I have tried to use it for "7-skin" but would rather use an even more hydrating toner for that instead.

With the serum, I usually use two pumps worth of product and spread it over my face. Thrice if I am feeling generous and have pumped just once for the entire face when stingy. Any amount is sufficient since it spreads well, it is dependent on how dry my skin feels at that moment.

Thoughts & Recommendations

While both work, I definitely like the Botanical Nutrition Power Toner over the Serum. They are more lightweight and less occlusive than I originally imagined them to be. Many dry skin type people do love this line though (according to the Peach & Lily's reviews); for me, neither help my most dry areas and flakey skin. There is some relief but not the long lasting kind. It does provide great moisture for the normal/oily areas, especially when the weather is more humid.

Size is the biggest reason I like the Toner (150 ml) more than the Serum (50 ml). I know serums are supposed to be more concentrated and deeply moisturizing, however, this Serum isn't for me. I can use 2-3 pumps and focus it on my flakes but still be parched a few hours later. When I use 2-3 pumps twice a day, I go through the bottle way too quickly (close to empty within a month or so). The toner lasts many many more months when used only to wipe my skin after cleansing.

Versatility is another factor as to why I enjoy the Toner. I could, again, use it to wipe my face. No matter how well I clean and exfoliate my face beforehand, the cotton will always wipe something up and become yellow-hued. It can be applied in multiple layers to hydrate. I have dabbed toner over makeup on my flakes to instantaneously relieve patches, even if temporary. I have tried with the Serum as well but it has a more vicious texture which can actually (re)move makeup if not careful.

Repurchasing isn't on my mind right now. If it was, I would only reconsider for the Toner; it costs less, lasts longer, and has more uses. I think the yellow be the skin line works best for oily/normal/combination skin and in humid weather but I seem to in the minority. Thankfully, neither broke my skin out. Those sensitive to fragrance may want to skip this.