Patricia Wexler Intensive 3-in-1 Eye Cream Review

Patricia Wexler is a brand behind dermatologist Patricia Wexler, who is occasionally featured on Allure for Q&A. This eye cream contains their patented MMPi20 technology which supposes to lift, firm, and treat wrinkles.

Price: $32 for .5oz, available at Bath & Body Works

Pros: Even thought the texture is like a thick balm, it absorbs very well. It just melts into my skin, leaving behind a natural finish, no greasy residue. It also does not interfere with my makeup.

Cons: Even though it does not leave my skin dry, some day, I do wish it is more hydrating so that my Bobbi Brown corrector can glide on more easily.

Overall: It is possible that because I naturally sleep on my left side and my left side also get more sun exposure while driving, I notice that the left side of my face is not as firm and tight as my right side. This is particularly true with my under eye areas and I also have some fine lines on both side. After using this cream for over 2 months, I can say that other than daily maintenance, this cream does not help with my area of concerns.

Rating: 3/5

Disclosure: The product(s) being review was purchased by me for personal use or review purpose.

Sigma Premium Travel Kit Review

Are any of my readers fan of The Voice?  I saw the audition show and I was hooked since. It is big because I don't watch a lot of TV. I love both the contestants and the judges. I did not know who Blake Shelton was but he starts to look mighty hot - just love his positive and well manner persona, it is the whole package baby. =) Anyway, the season finale is tonight, who are you rooting for?

Anyway, back to makeup...

I was impressed with the packaging when these arrived.  I always appreciate it when seller go the extra mile and nicely wrap their products.

The case is a lighter pink with a bit of a silver tone to it compare to what is pictured online.  I don't think it is real leather but it is nice and soft.  I do love love the pink handle of the brushes, pink is cute.

It comes with a total of 7 brushes.  2 face brushes, a concealer brush, and 4 eye brushes.

The review for these brushes are going to be brief, more of a first impression because honestly I didn't get a chance to use them extensively.  The brush on the far left is the F25 Tapered Brush and it is by far my favorite of the bunch.  It is soft and it has such a unique shape that other than MAC brushes, there is no other dupe for it.  It is good for powdering T-zone, contour and blush.  The middle is the F15 duo fiber powder/blush brush.  Most duo fiber brushes has a flat top but this one is tapered so it is unique in that aspect but it is so flimsy that I don't find it useful.  The last one on the right hand side is the F65 large concealer brush.

The first brush on your far left is E50 Large Fluff.  It is ideal for a wash of color other than that, it is too big for my small eyes area.  Next to it is E45 Small Tapered Blending.  Third one is E20 Short Shader.  I was really excited about it but I find it to be a bit hard and scratchy.  Last one on the far right is E10 Small Eye Liner brush.

Here is a picture of size comparison between the F25 and Sigma F84 Angled Top Kabuki (review here), which I adore and recommend.

Overall, I think that this kit is a good option for beginners. However, if you already own a ton of brushes, you probably won't need this. Just bear in mind that with Sigma, once you used the brushes, you can not return them.


Disclosure: The product(s) being review was purchased by me for personal use or review purpose.

Chanel Fall 2011 Illusions D'Ombres Collection

Sometime I find it a bit strange that Summer just began officially last week and we are already taking about the Fall collections, but they are here. In fact, I find the Illusions D'Ombres de Chanel Fall 2011 collection quite hypnotizing. The focus is on luminous shimmers and dramatic metallics that bring touches of radiant colour to face and fingertips.  Visit Chanel.com for a complete list of products.

Want It! Mario Badescu Glycolic Eye Cream

I am having a mediocre relationship with my current eye creams of late. I feel like I need something with a little bit of a punch to it. I saw Mario Badescu Glycolic Eye Cream in my inbox and immediately thought, I need to add this to my wish list.

It claims that mature skin showing signs of wrinkles and sun damage will enjoy the benefits of this skin smoothing, rich eye cream. High in antioxidant Vitamin E and a blend of oils for a soft, and more youthful looking eye area. Eye cream with a price tag of $20, you can’t beat that. Do I make you want to try it too? =)

Bliss Youth as We Know It Moisturizer SPF 30 Review

Price: $79 for 1.7oz

Pros: First off, thumbs up on the packaging, it comes in an airtight opaque pump. The packaging is convenience, hygienic, and protects antioxidants. It has high level of active, sunscreen ingredients. If you add them all up, about 25% of the ingredients are active. Being a chemical sunscreen, it also means it is colorless, will not leave a white cast. Also, those with dry skin will appreciate the light yet rich, moisturizing properties.

Cons: It is pricey. I think using expensive sunscreen can be dangerous if the high price make you skim on the amount of product you use.

Overall: I would recommend this for people with normal to dry skin, in cooler climate. If you have oily skin, this is not for you. Even though it is lightweight in texture, it is also hydrating and rich. My skin is combination right now and it is currently hot and humid in D.C. I find that this sunscreen make me shinier than usual. Thus, I am saving this for winter when it will be more appreciated and love, perhaps a higher rating as well.

Rating: 3/5

Disclosure: This review contains sample sent for consideration. The review is base on my honest personal opinions and experiences.

Cross Shoulder Bag and Women Boat Shoes

I was looking for a grab and go bag to wear during vacation. In my experience, a cross shoulder bag is just much more comfortable to wear when you have to be all over town.  I purchased this Urban Expressions Zip Messanger Bag from DSW for $49.95.

This is what it look like online - brown color.

I got this is grey which is unfortunately sold out.  However, they still have the brown and black available.  I think it's so cute and has a very urban vibe.  It looks good with skinny jean, legging, and dresses too.  Below is what it looks like in person.

I love the added femininity touch of lace fabric lining.

I was also looking for a comfortable walking shoes that is NOT a sneaker so I decided to pick this Keds Rapture Boat Shoes. I was a bit iffy because I am not into boat shoes but these are actually cute. I wore it around the house and they are quite comfortable too; nicely paded and doesn't feel like they need to be breaking into.

Keds Women Rapture Boat Shoes - online photo.



Okay, I am ready for vacation now!  What are your plans for the summer?

FDA's New Law for Sunscreen Manufacturers

Everyday, there are more and more awareness on the important of proper sun protection. Base on an article from InStyle, the FDA just issued new guidelines for the sunscreen labeling, designed to give us more information about its effectiveness, the L.A. Times reports. The changes are expected to take place by next summer. In the meantime, here are six things you need to know:

1. Time to toss the SPF 75! Sunscreens will no longer be able to carry an SPF value higher than 50, and the highest category will now be 50+. Studies found that sunscreens with an SPF higher than 50 don’t actually provide greater protection.

2. For the first time, sunscreen labels will be allowed to claim that the products protect against skin cancer and wrinkles.

3. Sunscreens may be labeled “broad spectrum” if they block UVB radiation and a percentage of UVA radiation. UVB causes sunburns, while both UVA and UVB can lead to skin cancer and early skin aging.

To read the full article, please visit InStyle.

Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Mask Review

I have always wanted to see the Oprah show in person, especially one of her Favorite Things giveaway show.  Few years ago, I tried to get tickets a few times but no luck.   Few weeks ago, Oprah declares Bliss Labs as her favorite facial on the finally show.  Obviously, I was thrill to get a chance to try Bliss products out myself.

Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Mask claims to be a quick fix for dull, tired skin. It supposes to mimic and give you similar effect as their famous Triple Oxygen Treatment spa facial at the comfort of your home.

Price: $52 for 3.4oz

Pros: This is my first time trying an oxygen mask and I must say it’s a novelty and FUN. Coming out of the bottle is a gel texture and once you lather it in, it turns frothy. I came out of the bathroom and my hubby jumped, he said “oh shiz, what is that on your face”. Haha!

It first come out of the can as a gel texture.

 After 1 minutes of massage onto damn skin, it turns into a foam.

After 3 minutes, it foams up even more then start to dissipate at about 5 minutes . 

 

Other than being a novelty, after 5 minutes, my skin feel softer, smoother, and brighter as well. It contains vitamin C to lighten and tighten the skin. $52 a bottle may sounds like a lot but seriously, you only need a nickel size amount of product each time. Since one container is 3.4oz, this will last you a long, long time and therefore not that expensive after all.

Cons: I was surprise to see SLS in the ingredients. I guess that is how it foam up?  Luckily I experience no dryness after usage.

Overall: I don’t know if this will provide any long term benefit. However, as it claims, it is the perfect quick fix or picks me up before a big event or days when you didn’t get enough sleep. My skin does look better after using it.

Rating: 4.5/5

Disclosure: This review contains sample sent for consideration. The review is base on my honest personal opinions and experiences.

New Cover Girl NatureLuxe Mousse Mascara

When I saw the ad for this NatureLuxe Mousse Mascara, the "mousse" part peak my curiosity. I wonder, does this mean it will be lighter and airy? Darn marketing! Cover Girl describe it as a mousse mascara that provide luxurious volume that leave lashes light and lifted. They have also swap out the synthetic material with the more natural alternatives of beeswax and honey. It comes in the regular and water resistant formula, each with shades of black and brown.

Avon Professional Eye Smokifier Review

Avon Professional Eye Smokifier is a high pigment loose powder that can be worn as both eyeshadow or liner.


Price: $8 but it is currently on sale for $3.99

Pros: I was not sure what to expect and I end up really loving it. Blue Gray is a gorgeous shimmery dark grey color. The round sponge tip easily glides over making it so effortless to get a smoky line and since it is pigmented, there is no retracing necessary. You can use the sponge tip to blend so no additional brush needed.

Cons: I think the name of the shade – blue gray is misleading. There is no blue in it at all. Nevertheless, it is a beautiful shimmery gray color.

Overall: I read some complaint on Avon website that there is falls out. Since it is loose powder, it is “normal” that there is fall out. I just put a tissue paper under my eye during application. Overall, it is affordable, pigmented, convenient, super EASY to use; even easier than a pencil.

Rating: 5/5

Disclosure: This review contains sample sent for consideration. The review is base on my honest personal opinions and experiences.

Hauls and Upcoming Reviews

May was a busy shopping month for me.  I need to save money for vacation so I will seriously need to cut back the next few months.  Anyhow, I will be reviewing Bliss Labs Oxygen Mask and their new sunscreen.  I also have some Perricone MD skincare that I forgot to take picture of.

Here are the toners I ordered from Sasa.com, along with shampoo, mask, and BB cream.  I am looking forward to reviewing more Asian brand for you ladies.  Speaking of BB cream, cosmetic-wise, I also have some Avon and NYX goodies.
 

Smashbox Bargain at Ulta

Hello. I just want to do a quick post to share some bargains with you. I just picked up the Smashbox Lip Enhancing Gloss Duo the other day my local Ulta for $10. That is a great deal, cheaper than drugstore even. They also have the blush on sale for $5. You can get the lip duo online and in store but the blush is unfortunately sold out online. I saw both at the store the other day so...good luck!

Summer Perfect Teal: Sinful Polish in Apple Mint

First off, I adore this color, Apple Mint. It is bright without being too loud. Under certain light, I can see the iridescent shimmers that are very pretty. Two of my fingers started to chip after 5 days then it stop. I removed it after 10 days, it has cracks and few more chips. Overall, I think the staying power is pretty decent.  I love that the price is so affordable, making it easier to try out more shades. I got this for $1.99 at Target; you can also find Sinful at Walgreens.

This picture was taken using flash.

 Disclosure: The product(s) being review was purchased by me for personal use or review purpose.

Coupon Code for Imomoko

I have shop at imomoko.com a few times and so far, the service have been good.  They have pretty good selection too.  Happy Shopping!

Skinfood is Now Available in Canada and U.S.

Skinfood’s facial masks have been on my wish list for some time now. Skinfood is a Korean brand cosmetics and skincare company that have been around since 1957.  To my delight, when I visit their new Canada’s website, I found out that they also ship to the U.S. and you can order directly through that website.
I love it when companies make it easier to get over sea products. 

You can visit their website at www.skinfood.ca