I never thought there would come a day I would try a cleansing balm I did not like. Okay, I'm sorry, that is a bit overdramatic—I haven't tried that many compared to what's available on the market. But you get the idea right? Most tend to look, feel, and/or perform more or less the same. FEMMUE's Extraordinary Beauty Cleansing Balm gives the most different user experience from start to finish that is too unconventional for me to adapt to.
FEMMUE's description:
Just simple rolling massage with Femmue's Balm relieves your body and mind fatigued by stress during the day, just like you are in a spa. The mild heat created during the balm massage melts bodily waste and dead skin cells blocking the skin pores while offering ample nourishment. It offers wonderful softness and radiance to the skin. Femmue's unique gel-type cleansing balm changes from jelly to oil and emulsion form when applied, allowing diverse massaging and cleansing for users. It also soothes and enriches your mind with its mild ylang-ylang fragrance and fresh citrus and woody fragrance.
Olive Oil: Mildly cleanses off makeup while changing its formulation during application. With vitamin E helping strike oil-moisture balance for the skin, it is excellent for skin soothing.
Evening Primrose Oil, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, Macadamia Oil, Avocado Oil: The plant-based oils help create a moisturizing shield and retain long-lasting skin hydration.
No artificial fragrance, no artificial color additive, no chemical surfactant, no preservatives ensure minimal skin irritation and perfect comfort for the skin.
The natural skin protective shield created by the product ensures hydration even after facial wash while preserving the natural skin lipids and moisture.
Directions
Scoop about a dime-size dollop onto hands and rub between fingers.
Gently massage onto dry skin.
Use tepid water to emulsify oil and rinse away.
Ingredients
GLYCERIN, OLEA EUROPAEA (OLIVE) FRUIT OIL, MINERAL OIL, DIGLYC- ERIN, SUCROSE STEARATE, POLOXAMER 184, POLYGLYCERYL-10 BEHENATE/EICOSADI- OATE, BEESWAX, CETEARYL ALCOHOL, WATER, GLYCERYL BEHENATE/EICOSADIOATE, GLYCERYL STEARATE, OLEA EUROPAEA (OLIVE) FRUIT EXTRACT, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, OENOTHERA BIENNIS (EVENING PRIMROSE) OIL, ROSA CANINA FRUIT OIL, MACADAMIA TERNIFOLIA SEED OIL, PERSEA GRATISSIMA (AVOCADO) OIL, HELIANTHUS ANNUUS (SUNFLOWER) SEED OIL UNSAPONIFIABLES, CANANGA ODORATA FLOWER OIL, PEL- ARGONIUM GRAVEOLENS OIL, LAVANDULA ANGUSTIFOLIA (LAVENDER) OIL, JUNIP- ERUS MEXICANA OIL, CITRUS LIMON (LEMON) PEEL OIL, CITRUS AURANTIUM DULCIS (ORANGE) PEEL OIL, LAURUS NOBILIS LEAF OIL, SALVIA SCLAREA (CLARY) OIL, AMYRIS BALSAMIFERA BARK OIL, CITRUS AURANTIUM BERGAMIA (BERGAMOT) FRUIT OIL, V- ANILLA PLANIFOLIA FRUIT EXTRACT, CINNAMOMUM ZEYLANICUM BARK OIL, ROSA DAMASCENA FLOWER EXTRACT, GLYCERYL CAPRYLATE, SODIUM DILAURAMIDOGL- UTAMIDE LYSINE, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL
Balm 50 ml / 1.76 oz
FEMMUE (Korean retail): ₩45,000
FEMMUE (American retail): USD $46.00
Peach & Lily: USD $38.00
Packaging
A thick and hefty frosted-glass jar with a screw on cap. New tubs of cleansing balm should include an inner seal but sadly lacks a spatula for something that is supposedly more luxe. Although pretty to look at on the counter, it is not the best for travel because of the weight and delicate nature of glass.
Color, Texture, Finish, & Scent
The texture of the Femmue's cleansing balm is by far the most unique I have tried. It is transparent and bright yellow in color, which is supposedly all natural. The balm is very thick and resistant to scooping, unlike the softer "sorbet" varieties that are more common; the closest comparison I can say would be a cross between Vaseline and Smith's Rosebud Salve. Emulsifying and rinsing off the makeup remover requires more effort whilst not giving the cleanest feeling afterward. There is a very strong floral scent that doesn't dissipate until it is fully washed off.
How I Apply
1. Scoop an appropriate amount (varies depending on how much makeup I had put on my face).
2. Massage it gently all over. Focus on crevices and areas with a higher concentration of colors.
3. Sometimes wet my hands a little and emulsify the balm.
4. Continuously splash my face with water to fully rinse dissolved makeup and balm away.
5. (For me personally) Must follow up with a cleanser after.
Thoughts & Recommendations
All the little things that make the Extraordinary Beauty Cleansing Balm unique are what I found to be most cumbersome. This isn't any rash judgment either as I bore through the entire jar of balm.
I believe Femmue chose to have it be such a thick type balm to elevate the textural sensation in order to match its luxurious image. They want it to be spa-like and encourages facial massaging, which a rich & shiny balm seems fitting for. My issue with it is how body heat doesn't ever "melt" the cleansing balm as much as one would imagine. It just smooths onto the skin as if I am spreading out a layer of lip balm all over my face. Too little balm and I would tug at my skin when removing makeup; too much product and I would feel overwhelmed by the heaviness.
Femmue says the product is formulated to leave a "protective shield" to seal in natural facial oils and moisture. If that is the reason why the balm leaves a slick oily finish even after persistent rinsing, I could have done without the shield. My skin isn't ever dried out with the product and there is a soft quality after. I also know that a squeaky clean face is a no-go but the finish I get is more similar to when I try to clean an oily dish with just plain tap water—in my opinion, just doesn't work.
While most of the cleansing balms I have reviewed so far did a poor job against fresh waterproof pen liner, they ultimately did great against worn-out waterproof pen liner that was mixed with my oily eyelids. The Femmue balm is the only one so far to require a lot more attention with massaging and rubbing yet working not as well. Sometimes the more I massage (just lightly with my ring fingers) the more the balm would end up irritating and stinging my eyes, which is a completely new experience for me with any balm.
Otherwise the strong floral scent isn't so bad that it would give me headaches. Perhaps those more sensitive would not like it. I am just glad to say the cleansing balm never broke me out or irritated my skin, even with all the essential oils in its formulation. It does a good enough job at removing worn-out, non-waterproof makeup and sunscreen too.
Since I didn't enjoy using the product, I was glad the jar only had 50ml of product and that I bought it at a steep discount from the Peach & Lily sample sale. If I had enjoyed the balm more the 50ml would have been disappointingly small to be almost USD $40. Least to say, I will not be repurchasing another of the Femmue cleansing balm in the future. I do seem to be in the minority as many do rave of it on the Peach & Lily website.
I purchased the Ground Plan 24 HOUR Secret Mist without knowing anything about the brand. When I found out after Peach & Lily officially launched the curation on their site that this little bottle sold 1 million bottles in the 2 years since its launch, I was intrigued. I vaguely remember hearing that people in Korea loved it because it was safe to use during pregnancies and with babies (not that I am or have either)—this just indicates how non-irritating it could be and potentially good towards my acne-prone skin.
Peach & Lily's description:
Ground Plan’s most famous, holy grail product, this mist is truly a superstar mist that does it all — it hydrates, cools, soothes, cleanses, and even helps with irritated, sensitive skin. That might sound too good to be true, but Ground Plan sold 1 million units of this Secret Mist in just 24 months in Korea through word of mouth because it really is that effective. This superstar mist is not water-based or watered down, containing 85% witch hazel extract, which is balanced out with glycerin and anise fruit extract to maintain moisture and condition your skin. Witch hazel extract has astringent properties, tightening skin and minimizing the appearance of pores, and it’s particularly great for acne-prone skin because it helps control oil production. A fine mist that settles comfortably on your skin, this Secret Mist is not only great in the morning as you look forward to your day, but it’s also perfect for a pick-me-up throughout the day whenever your skin needs some refreshment. It works over your makeup, too!
TEXTURE: light, fine, cooling
SCENT: subtle, clean, plant-like with hints of lavender
SKIN TYPE: suitable for all skin types
Directions
Hold about a foot from your face. Close your eyes and press your lips together before spraying evenly over your face. Pat into skin to absorb.
Ingredients
HAMAMELIS VIRGINIANA (WITCH HAZEL) EXTRACT, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, DIPROPYLENE GLYCOL, GLYCERIN, POLYGLYCERYL-10 LAURATE, POLYGLYCERYL-10 MYRISTATE, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, ILLICIUM VERUM (ANISE) FRUIT EXTRACT, LAVANDULA ANGUSTIFOLIA (LAVENDER) OIL, DISODIUM EDTA, DIPOTASSIUM GLYCYRRHIZATE, ALLANTOIN, XYLITOL, BETAINE, CENTELLA ASIATICA EXTRACT, PORTULACA OLERACEA EXTRACT, MONUS ALBA BARK EXTRACT, CITRIC ACID
Mist 60 ml / 6.7 oz
Ground Plan (Korean retail): ₩22,000
Ground Plan (American retail): USD $24.00
Peach & Lily: USD $22.00
Mist 120 ml / 3.4 oz
Ground Plan (Korean retail): ₩38,000
Ground Plan (American retail): ~USD $37.72
Peach & Lily: Sold out at the moment
Mist 300 ml / 3.4 oz
Ground Plan (Korean retail): ₩72,000
Ground Plan (American retail): ~USD $66.86
Packaging
A lightweight, metal bottle (I am assuming it is aluminum) metal-wrapped plastic bottle with a black-colored spray nozzle. The manufacture date is clearly printed on the bottom and plenty of empty space to jot down an opened date for those who keep track of that. I don't believe the bottle nor box were sealed in an extra way. I prefer mists to come in a see-through bottle but a quick shake also gives a general idea of how much product is left inside.
Color, Texture, Finish, & Scent
The liquid is colorless but not scentless. There is a very strong floral/lavender smell straight out of the bottle. Luckily for me, unfortunate for some, the scent doesn't linger long. The mist 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
Given the popularity and claims, I really hoped I would be a part of the majority and love the 24 Hour Secret Mist. Yes, that does imply I didn't quite like it as much as anticipated.
The product isn't bad. The spray nozzle is actually one of the better ones of the many mist sprays I have tried so far. While some people love the calming scent of lavender, it usually is too strong for me; a personal preference kind of thing really. The main reason why I didn't love the mist was the formulation would sting my eyes if I overspray and droplets find their way near my eyes. It isn't a huge problem on the daily but it is something to consider.
I probably won't be repurchasing this myself again based on the scent and eye-stinging alone. However, I think those who love a light lavender scent would find this pleasing. Just don't go spray crazy and keep the mist a good distance away from the face to get a nice fine mist every time. Those who are sensitive to essential oils and/or witch hazel may want to look for something else.
The theme for last month's beauty purchases circled around sunscreens. While I have been pretty open to trying more "chemical" sun protection lately, the ones I picked up this time are of the "physical" variety. I just happened to be running low on the current sunscreens, but the overarching reason for the selection I made is because I am about to head on a cruise later today and the destinations specifically ban certain chemically organic ingredients (Oxybenzone and Octinoxate) for the health of corals. How would they check if everyone's sunscreens are safe or not is beyond me; at least I will feel less guilty about it in my heart and mind.
Etude House Sunprise Mild Airy Finish SPF 50+ PA+++
COSRX Shield Fit All Green Comfort Sun SPF 50+ PA++++
A'PIEU Madecassoside Sun Cream SPF 39 PA++
I scoured Sephora, drugstores, and most K-Beauty carrying stores in NYC to find these three "mineral" sunscreens that seemed to have the least amount of white cast. The Etude House one has been a long time favorite in the K-Beauty loving community but is, surprisingly, my first time trying it. The COSRX and A'PIEU ones seem to be recent launches yet both look very promising with the addition of the beloved Centella Asiatica. I will only bring the Etude House and COSRX sunscreens onto the cruise since they claim to have higher UVA and UVB coverage than the A'PIEU. Let's hope I apply and reapply well to avoid any major burning/skin damage whilst away.
A mist with only 6 ingredients, none of which is water, sounds almost too basic...too good to be effective. Yet this is kind of the norm, ingredients-wise, for Pyunkang Yul's hanbang (Korean herbal medicine) based products. Pyunkang Yul's Mist Toner is mainly a concotion of humectants and a single medicinal herb, coptis chinesis root. Its simplicity surprised me yet its effectiveness did not.
Ohlolly's description:
A cooling, incredibly hydrating and convenient misting toner made up of 91.9% coptis japonica root extract, a powerful antioxidant known for its anti-inflammatory, energizing and nourishing properties, Pyunkang Yul Mist Toner quickly absorbs to hydrate and refresh skin. Perfect as a toner in your regular skincare routine or as a mist anytime throughout the day (goes over makeup flawlessly). Made with only necessary ingredients, Pyunkang Yul is always free of artificial fragrances, dyes or irritants.
Best if:
- You easily get warm and sweaty
- Your skin tends to be shiny and oily
- You have enlarged pores and are prone to breakouts related to excess sebum
Directions
After cleansing, hold the bottle 7-8 inches away and spray. Follow with serum and moisturizer. Use as a mist to freshen up throughout the day.
Ingredients
COPTIS JAPONICA ROOT EXTRACT, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, GLYCERIN, SODIUM HYALURONATE
Mist 200 ml / 6.7 oz
Pyunkang Yul (Korean retail): ₩18,000
YesStyle: USD $21.90
Style Korean: USD $19.80
Ohlolly: USD $19.00
oo35mm: USD $18.99
Mist 100 ml / 3.4 oz
Pyunkang Yul (Korean retail): ₩12,000
YesStyle: USD $13.90
Style Korean: USD $13.20
Ohlolly: USD $12.00
oo35mm: USD $11.99
Packaging
Like most products in the main Pyunkang Yul line, the lightweight and transparent spray bottle is deep blue in color with a black-accent spray nozzle. New bottles of mist come sealed with plastic shrink-wrap around the top only. I believe the larger 200ml sizes are sold with additional box packaging.
I love that the bottle is see-through, no surprise here; this allows me to see clearly how much product is left and which direction the long plastic suction tube is nestled in to easily spray every last drop out. The 100ml bottle is a great size—not too tall nor too wide for my small hands. The mist that comes out is very fine and even.
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
Herbal medicine is always a touchy subject. I can't say I am a believer but I will still give things a try now and again. Pyunkang Yul says coptis japonica root/coptis chinesis root supposedly is anti-inflammatory, soothing, and nourishing. The mist is loaded with humectants to help draw in moisture and keep it there. On paper it couldn't sound any better!
After using this mist along with a bunch of others around the same time, I can say the Pyunkang Yul Mist Toner was easily my favorite. My parched face and hands were instaneous relieved of tightness. It never irritated or stung my eyes if the toner happened to find its way there. Likewise, my skin hasn't reacted badly either.
The main differentiating factor between all the mists available is usually the spraying mechanize, which I am glad to say, actually sprays well and gives a nice cloud of liquid. Also, compared to other mists I have tried so far, Pyunkang Yul's mist in both the 100ml and 200ml sizes are a very generous amount for the marked price tag.
Whether I actually experienced any anti-infllammation benefits is debatable. As a hydrating mist to help relieve tightness in-between skincare steps or through the day, I think this is a solid inexpensive choice. For those looking for something with extra added skincare actives/special ingredients, it will probably be pretty lackluster. I can see those with sensitive skin would probably enjoy this as it has such minimal ingredients and lacks most irritants. While I say I would "repurchase in the future" a lot for products I like but never end up doing, the Mist Toner is most definitely going to be repurchased purely because it is the most effective AND affordable I have used thus far.
I have got to say, I am continuously impressed by each and every different cleansing balm I have tried so far. Aromatica's Orange Cleansing Sherbet wooed me with its impressive size and kept me hooked because of its effectiveness. While Aromatica is a new brand to me, this product alone and the brand's focus on high quality/toxin-free focus has me intrigued.
Aromatica's description:
AROMATICA's Orange Cleansing Sherbet removes impurities and all traces of make-up and balances oil production in the skin.
A sherbet type cleanser of fresh feeling leaves skin deeply cleansed, moisturized and soft.
Plant-derived canola oil and organic babassu seed oil allow the cleanser to dissolve grime and dead cells.
Directions
Apply a moderate amount of Orange Cleansing Sherbet to dry skin.
Gently massage using light circular movements and rinse well with warm water.
Ingredients
[CANOLA OIL] HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED OIL(CONDITIONER), SORBETH-30 TETRAOLEATE(PLANT-DERIVED EMULSIFYING AGENT), POLYETHYLENE(VISCOSITY CONTROLLING AGENT), [APRICOT KERNEL OIL] PRUNUS ARMENIACA KERNEL OIL(CONDITIONER), *[BABASSU SEED OIL] ORBIGNYA OLEIFERA SEED OIL, **LIMONENE, [YLANG-YLANG Oil] CANANGA ODORATA FLOWER OIL(CONDITIONER), [CEDARWOOD OIL] CEDRUS ATLANTICA WOOD OIL(SOOTHING AGENT), TOCOPHEROL, [SWEET ORANGE PEEL OIL] CITRUS AURANTIUM DULCIS (ORANGE) PEEL OIL(CONDITIONER), **BENZYL BENZOATE, **LINALOOL
*CERTIFIED ORGANIC **FROM NATURAL ESSENTIAL OILS
Balm 180 g / 6.7 oz
AROMATICA (Korean retail): ₩25,000
AROMATICA (American retail): USD $36.00
Peach & Lily: USD $35.00
Packaging
Note: Aromatica seems to have updated the labeling design for many, if not all, of their products. The Orange Cleansing Sherbet is not an exception. However, judging from the ingredients lists on the tub I have and the one listed on their website with the new label design both appear to be made of the same things and probably still have an identical formulation.
A tub of cleansing balm which comes in a sturdy wide, shallow, and opaque-white plastic jar sans box (at least that is how Peach & Lily presented it at their sample sale). It has a sole green security tape which connects the lid to the jar body. There is a reusable inner seal tab with an included golf club-like spatula.
Color, Texture, Finish, & Scent
A soft beige balm that scoops easily, spreads well, and melts with little to no effort. It kind of reminds of the consistency that coconut oil has when it isn't fully solidified. The "sherbet" balm emulsifies well; there isn't any residue left behind after fully rinsing. My face usually doesn't feel tight afterward either.
The one thing I could do without is the initially strong, almost artificial smelling, orange/citrus scent. I am reminded of household cleansers every time I use the cleansing balm. Judging by the ingredients the scent is definitely not because of any added "fragrance". It seems to come 100% from the fruit and plant oils/extracts (i.e. limonene, citrus aurantium dulcis peel oil, etc.). Luckily, the smell doesn't linger out of the jar in small quantities.
How I Apply
1. Scoop an appropriate amount (varies depending on how much makeup I had put on my face).
2. Massage it gently all over. Focus on crevices and areas with a higher concentration of colors.
3. Sometimes wet my hands a little and emulsify the balm.
4. Continuously splash my face with water to fully rinse dissolved makeup and balm away.
Thoughts & Recommendations
The Orange Cleansing Sherbet is by far one of the largest tubs of cleansing balm I have tried thus far. Most products in this category offer ~80-90ml. Anything above 100ml is pretty rare and generous. Aromatica's version has a whopping 180ml! I like that it is reasonably priced per ml too at ~$0.19/ml.
To no surprise, this cleansing balm is effective at removing my makeup at the end of the day. The photo above is of it trying to erase fresh makeup on a completely bare arm (in terms of having no skincare/body care). It cleanses gently and doesn't leave my face feeling stripped of moisture. I never broke out or reacted badly to the product either.
What is surprising would be the balm's short ingredients list (only 11 components) compared to other cleansing balms on the market. A good chunk of the 11 ingredients is essential oils which may not work for those with super sensitive skin. Aromatica doesn't do this for all their products but I appreciate that they list the general reasoning behind each ingredient for the Orange Cleansing Sherbet specifically on their website.
The two biggest changes I would love to see, in order for this to be my HG cleansing balm, would be a less scented product and a flip-top lid instead of the screw-on top. Otherwise, I think this is a solid choice for most skin types and a great value all-around. As always, I am placing this on my "Repurchase" list but I will probably continue to try other cleansing balms before that re-buy time comes.
Asian lashes are usually described to be short, curl-less, and therefore stick straight. My own lashes definitely fit into that category and unfortunately am not the exception (unlike my male family members, ironically). Even though I can wish for long and lush eyelashes there is a limit to my dreams. Products like mascara and fake lashes can only do so much because I wear glasses every waking minute of the day and too much stuff would immediately be nothing but a bother. The ohii Mini Mascara is quickly changing my mind to see how nice the addition of define lashes could be without being a daily annoying chore.
Urban Outfitters's description:
Perk up your lashes with ohii’s mini mascara, perfectly formulated for daily use. Impactful, but still natural, this vegan mascara comes with a thin wand, perfect for catching even the teeniest lashes for a natural look. Leaves lashes dark and soft with no clumpy, spidery texture or messy fallout. Want a more dramatic look? Mini Mascara plays well with others - just wipe on a layer as a primer before following up with a volumizing formula.
- Plays well with others
- Darkening formula
- Non-clumping
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free, gluten-free, paraben-free, mineral oil-free, sulfate-free, phthalate-free
Directions
Apply to lashes on its own as a lightweight mascara or use as a primer for your favorite volumizing mascara
Ingredients
WATER/EAU/AQUA, ACRYLATES COPOLYMER, IRON OXIDES (CI 77499), SYNTHETIC BEESWAX, ACRYLATES/ETHYLHEXYL ACRYLATE COPOLYMER, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, COPERNICIA CERIFERA (CARNAUBA) WAX/CIRE DE CARNAUBA/CERA CARNAUBA, HYDROGENATED POLYISOBUTENE, ACACIA SENEGAL GUM, GLYCERYL BEHENATE, PALMITIC ACID, STEARIC ACID, BEHENYL ALCOHOL, POLYVINYL ALCOHOL, GLYCERYL STEARATE SE, TROMETHAMINE, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, SORBITAN STEARATE, POLYSORBATE 60, MONTMORILLONITE, NYLON-66, POTASSIUM SORBATE, PHENOXYETHANOL, LAURETH-21, HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE, SILICA, TITANIUM DIOXIDE (CI 77891), XANTHAN GUM, OCTYLACRYLAMIDE/ACRYLATES/BUTYLAMINOETHYL METHACRYLATE COPOLYMER, MICROCRYSTALLINE CELLULOSE, PEG-240/HDI COPOLYMER BIS-DECYLTETRADECETH-20 ETHER, CETYL PALMITATE, SORBITAN OLIVATE, SORBITAN PALMITATE, POTASSIUM LAURATE, BHT
Mascara 3.2 ml / 0.11 oz
Urban Outfitters: USD $16.00
Packaging
The slim tube of mascara has a very bright coral-pink exterior. It is slightly shorter than the length of my hand and a little bigger in diameter than a Sharpie marker. The longer cap allows for a more comfortable grip. I like that the distance between the cap and wand is short, which gives more precise control.
Obviously, the most unique aspect is the super slim mascara wand. The bristle-y portion is about the length of the top part of my finger but it is only about half the size of a typical brush. It is a pretty simple and straightforward design yet works well with the mascara formula.
Color, Texture, Finish, & Scent
ohii Mini Mascara only offers a Black shade right now.
When I swatched the mascara on my hand, the formula is quite dry and not the deepest black mascara on the market. It applies onto my lashes on the drier side as well making it a quick step in the mornings even when layering. Interestingly, there is a sparse amount of fibers even though the brand doesn't mention it is lengthening. It has no added fragrance and generally unscented.
ohii doesn't market this as being water resistant or waterproof, but from my own "test" and experience it is slightly water resistant until rubbed and absolutely not waterproof. What I mean by this is that tears and running the mascara underwater will not cause the mascara to run down in black streaks. However, when the lashes with mascara are wet and subsequently rubbed or wiped the product will easily be removed.
How I Apply
Wiggle the mascara wand onto curled lashes. Layer twice if I feel like it.
Thoughts & Recommendations
Just to be clear...the ohii Mini Mascara is definitely not an affordable buy. It has half the amount of typical mascaras (drugstore and high-end), 0.11 oz versus 0.20's oz. At USD $16 it is double the price of typical drugstore mascaras. A closer comparison, size to price wise, would be the "mini" versions of full-sized high-end mascaras available at Sephora and Gift With Purchases.
With that said I have nothing but nice things to say about how the mascara performs. My natural, naked lashes don't have trouble holding a curl throughout the day. They are just so short and thin that even the curled lashes do not look drastically different.
ohii Mini Mascara adds the necessary definition without being heavy and clumpy. I think the light and dry formula really helps keep the curls up instead of gradually weighing down as the day goes on. Somehow ohii was able to make a dry mascara that is not crunchy. The small number of fibers lengthen a little without looking spidery and most importantly never leaves marks on my glasses lenses.
Besides the formulation, I really do think the skinnier wand does wonders for applying the mascara to my type of lashes. I can get to every nook and cranny easily. Each individual lash is defined because of packed yet evenly spaced out bristles.
My eyes never feel irritated when I use the mascara. It can last a long time if I don't cause physical disturbances (tears or rubbing). I also think it fairs pretty well against my oily eyelids. The mascara remains mostly intact after 12+ hours of wear. On bad days, there will be some stray fibers under my eyes. On super bad days, it will leave small flakes and smudges. Overall, I have more good (clean) days than not.
Call me crazy but I think this is the perfect natural, no-makeup makeup mascara for the polished and refined look. I wouldn't recommend this to anyone looking for obvious length and volume. You will be sorely disappointed. Perhaps it would be a good base as ohii suggests? Until I find something better and more affordable, I will probably repurchase in the future. However! I am keeping my fingers crossed because I noticed innisfree and few other Korean brands have similar skinny mascaras.
Maybe the ongoing trend will be me purchasing makeup brushes and products for my feet at the end of one year and the beginning of another? At least that is how it has been 2017 going into 2018 and, likewise, 2018 going into 2019.
I go into my stash drawer more often now than ever. I constantly remind myself of all the stuff I have and don't need to buy. But old shopping habits die hard, I guess; less skincare means more other stuff like brushes and foot balms. At least this kind of purchases seems to only happen once a year at most and only because of sales & coupons.
Real Techniques Bold Metals 300 Tapered Blushed Brush
Real Techniques Duo Fiber Collection
Real Techniques Perfect Crease Duo
Real Techniques Eye Smudge + Diffuse
Aveeno Cracked Skin Relief CICA Balm
Aveeno Crack Skin Relief CICA Ointment
The brushes were picked up from Harmon's Face Values in December when they were having a sale/clearance on Real Technique brushes. I believe the sets were 25% off and the Bold Metals blush brush was discounted.
In recent memory, the Aveeno CICA line is the only beauty-related TV ad I saw and was immediately intrigued by. It came at the right time when my heels were cracked and as centella asiatica gains momentum in America skincare. I have yet to try either balm or ointment but am excited about the promised outcomes.
I haven't qualified for an Influenster Voxbox in a hot while. I remembered the early ones I received were full of average products which were fun to try but nothing memorable or repurchase worthy. VoxBox's Rouge Signature edition, however, has blown me off my feet. As my first L'Oréal lip product, the Rouge Signature Lasting Matte Liquid Lipstick in I Create, I Rule, and I Am Worth It are quickly becoming my go-to formulas of choice lately.
L'Oréal's description:
Lightweight matte colored ink that delivers a stain-like feel with the color impact of a liquid lipstick. Imparts lips with a high pigment, matte finish, and lasting wear.
Less texture*, more color: Rouge Signature is a lightweight matte colored ink that delivers intense pigment loads with a weightless, bare-lip sensation. This ultra-comfortable liquid matte colored ink provides lasting matte color and infuses lips with a healthy, even dye of color. The no makeup feel of a stain combined with the color impact of a liquid lipstick. Find your signature shade from our captivating range. Use with our precision applicator to shape and lines lips for a precise and perfectly applied lip.
CAUTION: Flammable until dry. Do not use near fire, flame, or heat.
Directions
Apply starting in the center of your upper lip. Work from the center to outer edges of your lips, following the contour of your mouth. Then glide across the bottom lip and fill in. To take off, use an oil-based makeup remover or our waterproof Micellar Water for best results.
Ingredients
AQUA / WATER / EAU, DIMETHICONE, OCTYLDODECANOL, ISODODECANE, BUTYLENE GLYCOL, ALCOHOL, ACRYLATES/POLYTRIMETHYLSILOXYMETHACRYLATE COPOLYMER, CETYL PEG/PPG-10/1 DIMETHICONE, TRIMETHYL PENTAPHENYL TRISILOXANE, DISTEARDIMONIUM HECTORITE, POLYGLYCERYL-4 ISOSTEARATE, MAGNESIUM SULFATE, PHENOXYETHANOL, PROPYLENE CARBONATE, SYNTHETIC FLUORPHLOGOPITE, PEG/PPG-18/18 DIMETHICONE, ALUMINA, DISODIUM STEAROYL GLUTAMATE, ALUMINUM HYDROXIDE, LINALOOL, PENTAERYTHRITYL TETRA-DI-T-BUTYL HYDROXYHYDROCINNAMATE, TOCOPHEROL, PARFUM / FRAGRANCE, [+/- MAY CONTAIN / PEUT CONTENIR, CI 77891 / TITANIUM DIOXIDE, CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499 / IRON OXIDES, CI 45410 / RED 28 LAKE, CI 15850 / RED 7, CI 45380 / RED 22 LAKE, CI 15985 / YELLOW 6 LAKE, CI 42090 / BLUE 1 LAKE, CI 19140 / YELLOW 5 LAKE]
Lipstick 7 ml / 0.23 oz
L'Oréal (MSRP): USD $11.99
Packaging
A thick, transparent plastic tube with a twist-off cap and a petal-shaped applicator. The stopper inside the tube is just large enough for the applicator to come out easily whilst scraping off the perfect amount of excess product.
New tubes will have a sticker label for a security seal; if the perforated part is broken it probably has been opened already. The label for the name is placed on a very small sticker at the bottom of the tube.
I Create (No. 416)
"Nude," muted pink color in the tube. On my lips, it becomes a little peachy (warm pink) and is most similar to my natural lip color.
I Rule (No. 414)
Pink with blue undertones that is almost a dusty magenta. It applies true to the color in the tube.
I Am Worth It (No. 426)
Red with cool/blue undertones. Also applies true to the color in the tube.
Color, Texture, Finish, & Scent
The three colors I have tried are all highly pigmented yet lightweight and not tacky. Immediately after application, it is a bit wet with a slight shine but as the formulation dries it takes on a more velvety matte look.
The lipstick does transfer and wipes away but it also leaves stain my lips to a degree; the less bold colors are not as noticeable since it is similar to my bare lips.
There is a very slight sweet scent if I really sniff the applicator itself. Otherwise, it doesn't smell of much after I apply it nor does it taste of anything if licked.
How I Apply
Gradient lips // Point the applicator with the concave part facing my bottom lip. Spread a light layer starting from the center and then toward both sides. Lightly smack my lips together to put some color onto the upper lip.
Full lips // Start the same way as I would for gradient lips. Afterward, I add a layer or two extra to get more precise lines. I like to flip the applicator over so the concave part is facing up and then use the pointed tip to create the clean lip shape.
Thoughts & Recommendations
L'Oréal couldn't have been more accurate with their description of what the Rouge Signature Lasting Matte Liquid Lipsticks are. Everything that makes this lip product special is what I had hoped the Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick to be. Having tried both now, I do hope something existed with the best qualities of both.
The Rouge Signature packs a colorful punch whilst being versatile. I love that I could wear a light layer or build up for a bolder look. The formulation is buttery smooth, lightweight, and most importantly not tacky. Layering and reapplying is a breeze. It doesn't seem to settle into my lines nor catch onto dry patches. Once it dries down, I barely feel like I have anything on my lips.
Perhaps the only questionable claim is this providing lasting wear. The brand chose their words very wisely. In a sense it does, the bolder colors do leave a noticeable stain. Those swatches on my arm lasted a good week's time despite cleansing oils and eye/lip makeup remover. On my lips, though, is a different story. The staining effect only lasts as long as the top layer of skin isn't exfoliated off. For me, that happens twice daily...once in the morning because of lip balms and another time at night because of cleansing. The actual liquid lipstick portion easily wipes off when eating or drinking—the oilier the foods, the more color is removed.
L'Oréal' offers slightly more product (7ml versus Maybelline's 5ml) but it has a higher Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Pricing (USD $11.99 versus Maybelline's USD $9.49). I definitely prefer the see-through tubes of the Rouge Signature. I also actually find myself reapplying after the color fades because of how fuss-free it is; whereas I had no such thoughts with the SuperStay due to its tackiness, tendency to flake, and inability to layer. If only the liquid lipstick part of the Rouge Signature is as transfer-proof as the SuperStay, while keeping its non-sticky texture, we would have one huge gem of a drugstore matte lip product.
My only associations with dermatologists are prescription ointments and sensitive, flakey skin. It wasn't until a few Korean beauty and lifestyle YouTubers shared their dermatology visits did my scope of what dermatologists were capable of increase. They showed something more akin to a high-tech spa treatment filled with extractions, masks, and interestingly lights that weren't exactly lasers to treat troubled skin and other preventative care.
When the Neutrogena Light Therapy range came out it I was intrigued yet skeptical. How could colored lights, that aren't even UV, help with acne? I know medical professionals supposedly use these on their patients yet it still seemed like an impossible solution. I remember my friend sharing the ads for the Light Therapy Acne Mask and I immediately scoffed at it being ridiculous—both the idea of light therapy seeming gimmicky and the plastic mask looking like something straight out of a horror film.
But that's the beauty of marketing; when people are skeptical of something new, coupons can be a great initiator. A $10 off discount circulated the popular couponing websites around the same time my interest in the technology changed. If there wasn't the less expensive and compact Acne Spot Treatment nor the $10 coupon, I would have easily glossed over ever giving new consumer technology a try.
Neutrogena's description:
Pop-up pimple? Light is on it. With dermatologist in-office technology, the spot treatment harnesses the power of light therapy to target and treat breakouts fast. This clinically proven two-minute acne spot treatment uses red and blue lights to reduce breakouts without flaking or burning. The easy-to-use portable design is ideal to treat acne anytime-anywhere! Battery can be replaced for continued use.
Red lights - Reduces acne inflammation
Blue lights - Targets acne-causing bacteria
100% UV Free
Chemical Free Treatment
FDA Cleared
Directions
Turn on device by pressing the button for a FULL second until it powers on.
Apply directly on skin so light is fully surrounding pimple.
Treat for two minutes. Device will automatically turn off after two minutes.
Neutrogena: USD $19.99*
*Prices vary depending on where you live and the retailer you purchase from. In NYC, the prices at the drugstores are closer to USD $25.
Packaging
The Acne Spot Treatment doesn't look fancy. It is made of lightweight plastic and what I am assuming aluminum. There are 3 lights, 2 of which are blue-colored and 1 is a reddish pink. It functions via a single button and is simply AA battery operated. Of course, it would be more eco-friendly to have the wand be rechargeable but I think the price would definitely not be as affordable otherwise.
If I have to nitpick about anything, it would probably just be that Neutrogena assumes everyone will have a screwdriver handy at home because the battery chamber is locked shut to the handle of the wand via a small screw.
The biggest confusion with the Neutrogena Light therapy is in regards to the inclusion of an expiration date. It seems that the "Use by" date is for ~2 years after the light wand is made. (I got the one in the pictures in 2017 and it was set to expire 2019. Another wand I bought in late-2018 is set to expire in mid-2020.) I am unsure how lights could "expire" and neither does Neutrogena say in its included pamphlet. Nevertheless, the first Acne Spot Treatment I purchased did not even last until 2019 when the lights died a few months shy of the February 2019 date.
How I Use
Neutrogena recommends that the wand is pressed right up against the skin to completely surround a pimple. I do use the light in that way but also do just hover the light close to my face without any contact, especially when I have makeup or freshly applied skincare on. This way the surface of the wand doesn't get as dirty and I don't leave a rectangularly shaped mark on my face because the action of pressing something against the face for 2 minutes could create a slight suction/cupping effect.
Obviously, the latter method results in a less concentrated blast of light. However, after having done both methods I think a little distance between the light wand and skin doesn't have too big of an impact on the results. I would recommend keeping a mirror handy because I find that any slight movements in my hand or face and the light is nowhere near a pimple at the end of the 2 minutes.
They say to only target pimples 3 times per day, totaling 6 minutes per spot daily. Sometimes I abide by those rules and other times I am either too busy (more so lazy) to wait around for 6 mins or overzealous and "zap" the zits a couple times more than suggested. I never kept a schedule for this gadget. I have used it for continuous 2-minute sessions and I have also broken it up by daytime/nighttime.
Thoughts & Recommendations
For those with acne that isn't a random, isolated pimple here and there, I am sad to say this Neutrogena Light Therapy Acne Spot Treatment is not the answer. You will have to take the name "Spot Treatment" quite literally in order to not get mad at how it performs.
For those with acne that is cystic or deep, this little light wand is also not the best choice. The change isn't as dramatic and honestly not worth the time dedication. A dermatologist in a HuffPost article said that it may slow down the development but this consumer-oriented light gadget ultimately isn't designed to zap away the deep stuff. If possible I would wait for the pus to push through before treating.
So what is it good for then? What I found after a year or so of use on varying pimple types is, this particular light therapy seems to work best on the small, pus-filled pimples. Even then it takes the 3 (three!) 2-min sessions per zit, at the very least, to see results. Imagine if it was a cluster of pimples or a very persistent and big, pus-filled pimple it would take way too many 2-min sessions per day to treat all said pimples. In short, owning and using this gadget requires time and patience.
When the light does work, I think it does wonders. The small pustules I have targeted often dry up a day or so quicker than normal and just flakes right off like a scab. I find myself relying less on acne patches for the small fry spots. It is a nice reusable complement to those who find themselves going through too many acne patches. Save the hydrocolloids for the deeper-rooted stuff.
Each AA battery lasts for about ~100 2-minute sessions. After about 70 2-min light-ups the battery juice starts to slow down and there is a wait time of a few minutes before it can be initiated again. That waiting period slowly increases from a couple minutes to many (15+ min) as the power depletes more. When the gaps elongate past an hour, it is safe to say that AA battery is done for.
Neutrogena's Light Therapy Acne Mask is an option for those who often get more than a couple pimples at any given time. But keep in mind the mask itself is almost double the price of the Acne Spot Treatment AND it requires the purchase of a separate "Activator" to work, each having only 30 light-ups. The mask might not fit all face shapes nor the specific troubled area (say around the hairline or way under the chin and jaw). It also requires a longer session, 10 minutes for the entire face versus 2 minutes per spot.
Both versions have initial and reoccurring financial costs. The Spot Treatment will still be much cheaper than the Mask because AA batteries are sold in packs much cheaper than the single Activator. I think it all boils down to how bad the acne problem is because time is valuable. For those skeptical, I would recommend waiting for the usual 40% off coupon from CVS and buying the Light Therapy Acne Spot Treatment version before upgrading if necessary.
New year, more reviews! Since I haven't decided what or if I want to do the traditional Project Make a Dent this year I thought I would start the first post off this time around with something I thoroughly enjoyed using in 2018. It shouldn't be a surprise since I had good experiences with the other Hada Labo lines in the past; the Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Hyaluronic Acid Lotion worked as expected and possibly even better.
oo35mm's description:
Five types of hyaluronic acid (3D hyaluronic acid, adsorption type hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid, super hyaluronic acid, nano hyaluronic acid). This lotion has a lasting moisturizing effect. Slightly acidic, fragrance-free, no color additives, oil-free, alcohol (ethanol) free
Directions
After washing face, take an appropriate amount onto palm or cotton and blends in on face. Press into skin gently.
Ingredients
WATER, BG, GLYCERIN, PPG-10 METHYL GLUCOSE, HYDROXYETHYL UREA, ACETYL HYALURONATE NA (SUPER HYALURONIC ACID), HYALURONIC ACID NA, HYDROLYZED HYALURONIC ACID (NANO HYALURONIC ACID), HYALURONIC ACID HIDOROKISHIPUROPIRUTORIMONIUMU (SKIN ADSORPTION TYPE HYALURONIC ACID), HYALURONIC ACID CROSSPOLYMER NA (3D HYALURONIC ACID), APHANOTHECE SACRUM POLYSACCHARIDES (CONFUSION), HYDROGENATED STARCH HYDROLYSATES, GLYCOSYL TREHALOSE, DIGLYCERIN, SORBITOL, PENTYLENE GLYCOL, TRIETHYL CITRATE, CARBOMER, POLYQUATERNIUM -51 , PEG-32, PEG-75, ACRYLATED RETAINING CLIPS POLYMER AMMONIUM, EDTA-2NA, HYDROXIDE K, DIETHOXYETHYL SUCCINATE, SUCCINIC ACID 2NA, SUCCINIC ACID, PHENOXYETHANOL, METHYL PARABEN
Toner 170 ml / 5.75 oz
Hada Labo (Japanese retail): JP¥ 900
YesStyle: ~USD $30.00
oo35mm: USD $18.99
Global Rakuten: ~USD $8.00
Packaging
New bottles come fully wrapped in a plastic seal. Underneath the wrapping is a lightweight plastic bottle with a flip-top cap. Hada Labo products are delivered in the simplest yet still effective way. I love that the entire tube is clear to let me see just how much product is left. The small spout allows for a degree of control when dispensing the toner/lotion. But the only negative point of its packaging is also the small opening; because it isn't tapered the lotion can easily spill over onto the cap and eventually dry & crust up.
Color, Texture, Finish, & Scent
The toner is clear and viscous in consistency, almost like runny uncooked egg whites. There isn't any added fragrance nor is there a scent. It spreads easily and takes on a more watery form. At first, the finish is quite glossy/wet but that does die down to a matte finish as the skin absorbs the product in. My skin isn't sticky after applying it yet if I run my fingers over where I applied the toner/lotion there is a slight resistance.
How I Apply
With cotton // Pour a nickel-sized amount onto cotton pad and swipe it all over my face. After I go over my entire face I would re-swipe drier areas.
With hands in a smoothing motion // I drip about 2 drops each onto my forehead and both cheeks. Then I use only my fingertips to smooth the hyaluronic acid lotion across my face as if I was applying a serum or moisturizer. Sometimes I will give a few pats and help "press" the product into my skin quicker.
With hands in a patting motion // The classic Hada Labo lotion application technique, yet the one I used the least. Drip a few drops onto my palms, rub my hands together, and proceed to repeatedly pat my face until the toner/lotion is transferred from my hands onto my face.
Thoughts & Recommendations
It has been a while since I used the regular Hado Labo Hyaluronic Acid Lotion so I can't really compare and contrast the two. To my understanding, this "premium" version supposedly has 5 different kinds of hyaluronic acid that have different molecular sizes to reach different layers of skin.
I used it during the height of NY's summer and through a bout of a winter cold. The toner is lightweight enough for hot, humid weather but moisturizing enough to rid a crusty, cracked nose. At times I even relied on it as my sole moisturizer. Of course, I do need something extra when the weather gets very dry and cold.
My favorite aspects of the Premium HA Lotion are that it is non-irritating yet highly effective. My least favorite part of the toner has less to do with the product itself and more with it costing double in America versus in Japan. Even still it isn't crazily expensive because of the amount given compared to the amount needed to see results. I could see myself repurchasing this version in the future, even over the original HA Lotion.
