[Review] Holika Holika Magic Pole Mascara

Cross-posted to Lifestyle Post [x]

As someone who has really fine lashes combined with tapered double-eyelids, I've always had a hard time finding just the right mascara for me. And when I heard of Holika Holika's Magic Pole mascara, which boasts a unique wand design to "sculpt the perfect lash", I just knew I had to try it out!

Isn't the packaging pretty?

Holika Holika is known to have a slightly dreamy packaging, and I always think that it's a Korean version of Japanese brand Majolica Majorca. Dreamy and occasionally cute packaging, the Holika Holika Magic Pole Mascara didn't disappoint in its pretty packaging, coming in a dark purple triangular box with gold and white fonts and lining.

Instruction palette with 3 different lash look to try out!

Inside the box, there are instructions on how to effectively use the wand, completed with pictures so you don't have to understand Korean to learn how to use it.

The pretty packaging! 

How the wand looks like.

The mascara itself has the same color code for the packaging [#03], and the wand comes with a bobbed design at the tip. With a combination of short and long bristles, the wand is suppose to effectively come the lashes and cover them with ample mascara, before one uses the bobbed tip to seperate the lashes and remove any crumps [#04].

How the brush looks like in detail and how it is when swiped!

Claiming to be smudge-proof, water and sebum-proof, strong black and has a magic curling effect, Holika Holika Magic Pole Mascara sounds like the miracle product for every lady, and let's find out if it's truly what it says!

With thin lashes, one of the biggest challenge is to find a mascara that helps to hold the curls but wouldn't weigh them down in the process. Sadly, this Magic Pole Mascara isn't the right one for me as it doesn't seem to hold that much of a curl for me as compared to other brands. Despite the design of the wand, it didn't effectively removed the crumps either so I ended up with slightly crumped together lashes - which isn't my prefered lash look but if it's yours, this might just be the one for you. It does, however, lengthen and darkens the lashes for a pretty natural look.

On the side note, it does seem to do a good job being waterproof and smudgeproof, and is easily removed by washing with warm water. I used warm water without any remover and massaged with a cleansing puff, and poof, the mascara was removed effectively!

While I probably wouldn't be purchasing this mascara again, I certainly did enjoy using this product on days when I want to do some light make-up without eyeliner. Anyone who'd like a natural finish and has medium to thick lashes, this would probably be a better fit for you.

What are your thoughts on the Holika Holika Magic Pole Mascara?

[Review] Peri Pera Lip Tint Crayon - #01 Fruity Pink

Cross-posted to Lifestyle Post [x]

"This tender tint crayon is smoothly applied to your lips without any irritation. Fruits complex make your lips look vivid and juicy."

Peri Pera Lip Tint Crayon in Fruity Pink - isn't it cute?

When I first got this lip tint crayon, I was immediately bought over by the cute packaging. Coming in a cardboard made into the shape of a pencil, the lip crayon itself is equally as cute. In the design of a crayon, this special tint is a handy auto-type crayon that requires no shaving of any sorts. Just remove the plastic cover and apply - it's really that simple.

Testing the shade on my hand - and zoomed!

What I really love about this is the formula; the lip tint crayon has this amazing texture that applies smoothly onto your lips like the average lip balm, but with a vivid pretty color and a jelly-like glossy finish. As someone who isn't used to strong lip colors, I was a little worried when I tried the shade in #01 Fruity Pink. However, I was pleasantly surprised from the result - despite the vibrant color, I don't have to worry about the tint seeping into the cracks of my dry lips. Just like a lip balm, it applies evenly onto my lips for a smooth finish with no cracks at all! 

Not to mention, the color is build-able and it can give a vibrant touch to your face, especially on days when you've decided to put minimal make-up. Besides, one of the rising trend these days is a Jun Jihyun-inspired make up from You Who Came From The Stars - this means a bare-face natural look with a touch on the lips. And this Peri Pera's lip tint crayon in Fruity Pink will create just that!

Also living up to its name as a 'tint' crayon, this little fella had little problems leaving a nice stain on my lips even after a meal - in which you can just easily retouch on the go. The lasting power was beyond my expectations, having lasted for hours when I first tried it on. For those sensitive to smells, it has a somewhat fruity-yet-waxy scent, but that is negligible after application, so no worries on that.

If I really want to say a negative point...it would be that this lip crayon has the tendency to melt when left under the sun so please take note of where you store them - though you shouldn't be storing any cosmetic products directly under the sun. I would really love it if Peri Pera could come up with more colors, but I'd take what I can at the moment - make a guess what I'd be stocking up on as I head to S.Korea next week? 

[Review] Nature Republic Fly To The Moon Eye Shadow - #03 Pink

Cross-posted to Lifestyle Post [x]

It's been a long while since I last reviewed anything, isn't it?

Trying to start anew in 2014. With the first post none other than Nature Republic's Fly To The Moon Cream Eye Shadow - wow, long name! 

Fly To The Moon Eye Shadow in #03 Pink

My first impression when I opened up the pot, was that it somehow reminded me of Maybelline Color Tattoo's Indigo Pink; one swatch on my hand proved me otherwise, as it was packed with lots of glitter. I was a little skeptical about glitter eye shadows - I've always had the perception that they would either fall out or the colors wouldn't stay. I was wrong, as Nature Republic's Fly To The Moon Eye Shadow (#03 Pink) not only had beautiful sparkles, but they manage to stay on all day with minimal creasing and brighten your eyes instantly!

Look at the amount of glitter!

Like most cream eye shadows I've tried, this pot had a somewhat 'squishy' and bouncy cream shadow - avoid pressing too hard as 'cracks' would appear! - and is best applied by hand, both in terms of capturing pigment and blending. 

If you're looking for an eye-shadow with opaque pigments, then this might not be for you. However, it works well in brightening your eyes, and the best part? It can be layered on top of your other shadows for that added bling, and is completely build-able! Personally, I love to use it at the outer corners as well as the inner corners of my eyes to give my eyes more life and energy.

As written on the box, "this cream-type eye shadow provides a mystique sparkle to your eyes. Your eyelids will look like a night sky sprinkled with jewels." I could not agree more, with its two-tone effects that makes it a fun shadow to play around, on its own or with other colors. 

What are your thoughts on this glittery pot of pink (or any other shades)?

Many thanks to Lifestyle Post for choosing me as a brand advocate to try this out!

*P.S: I tried to capture the sparkles, but it doesn't seem to come out as well as I'd though. Nonetheless I hope you'd be able to see the glitter in #02!

[Review] Etude House Mini Me Perfumed Stick - Ms Cutie

L-R: Ms Twinkle, Ms Hot, Ms Cutie, Ms Lonely, Ms Ever

Coming in 5 different fragrances, Etude House's Mini Me Perfumed Stick is a portable-sized, stick perfume with cute packaging and lovely fragrances that would bound to suit your preferences. Using the idea of a 'love coach', the different perfume sticks have a different theme: Ms Cutie (Sparkling Citrus) is a college student waiting to meet her love at first sight; feisty Ms Hot (Tropical Fruity)  is a sexy woman that commands your attention; preppy Ms Lonely (Green Floral) wants to be in love again; feminine and romantic Ms Twinkle (Sweet Fruity Floral) is waiting for her prince to get down on one knee; and  elegant Ms Ever (Floral Bouquet) is looking to write happily ever after in her own fairy tale.

Basically, acquiring all 5 mini me perfume sticks would entitle you a trip from a blooming young lady to reach her very own fairy tale ending. Fantasy, cute and definitely appealing to Etude House's primary audiences: young females looking for affordable cosmetics with adorable packaging!

Official info on Ms Cutie

With the tagline 'Make him fall in love with me at first sight', Ms Cutie has a sweet fruity citrus scent that makes for a light, friendly and girly atmosphere. At the top right, below step 1, Ms Cutie takes on its coaching duties as it shares advice (Attract one with fresh perfume and a bright smile), key point (appeal with a fresh look) and lucky items (apply lip balm with natural make up comeplete with a girlish frill skirt) for a first meeting (much like how the perfume stick actually looks).

Amongst the five scents, I personally preferred this citrus one. I just love the slightly sour scent of lemon! It's so refreshing! I do have to say that the scents don't last long on the body, sadly. I do think that the newer one might actually last longer, so do check it out!

This perfume stick works just like your average lipstick. Screw it up, and go ahead to apply it on desired areas. I personally like to apply it near my collarbones and also on my wrists, but its really up to you. It also comes with a plastic cap for additional protection; you'd need it, because the cap isn't as tight as it seems. When you place it in your bag with the other cosmetics, the cap sometimes falls out, and you don't want your perfume stick to loose a chunk or chip here and here do you? 

I would also add that it's a little pricey for its worth when you buy it at retail stores, since it is a pretty small. It does last for quite a while, but if you really want to smell of the fragrance for long you have to constantly apply it. 

I am reaching the end of this perfume stick soon, which one should I get next?

Anyone else liked the perfumed sticks? 

Pros:

[o] Easy to bring about without worries of spill.

[o] 5 different scents for different tastes

[o] Very cute packaging

Cons:

[x] Scent is not long lasting

[x] Cap becomes loose after awhile

[Review] Nature Republic Super Aqua Max Combination Watery Cream

I'm not an expert in the moisturiser field, and as someone with oily-combination (a little prone to the oily side), I am not very keen on buying moisturisers unless I've tried and tested them so that I don't oil up. 

Currently I'm using two moisturisers daily, one for day and the other for night, and they fit quite well into my routine so I've got another excuse not to buy other moisturisers. But this sample has been sitting on my samples pile for months and I thought I'd just use it. Why not, right?

Sample pack

Gel-like cream.

See the moisture? It'd get adsorbed after awhile,

This cream is gel-like and goes on your face smoothly, leaving you a non-sticky and cooling sensation after it's been even out. When I first apply it, the first thought that came to my mind was that this cream reminds me of The Face Shop' Ice Flower Aqua Water Drop Pack -- the difference lies in the the other one is a mask that upon massaging, transform into water droplets that gets absorbed into your skin. Naure Republic's Super Aqua Max instead leaves a velvet like, soothing sensation on your skin that makes you feel that your skin is moisturised and smooth. And I like it! It moisturises just like having water splashed on your face. 

Bare in mind that my review is based on this one small sample pack! However, if I were to buy, I'd probably go for the one with oily skin for my skin type.

Pros:
[o] Not sticky at all
[o] Leaves cooling sensation
[o] There is a slight fragrance, a little like fresh dew but I actually love it. It's a pleasing scent!

Cons:
N / A - no comments

[Review] Etude House Collagen Moistfull Smoothing Ampule Primer

Etude House Moistfull Collagen Smoothing Ampule Primer is a hydrating moisturizing primer that lifts and tightens complexion to promote a radiant glow prior to foundation makeup application.

The Collagen Moistfull series has been around for quite some time, and this Smoothing Ampule Primer has been my first ever face primer. It comes in a tube, and the full size is 30ml -- which is pretty lasting because you don't need a whole lot each time. Despite being in a tube, it's rather easy to control the amount you want with a light squeeze. I do recommend putting it in a upright position as shown below as it is easier to squeeze the primer out this way without splattering everywhere due to the air pressure (if you lay it flat parralel to the table).

Full size at 30ml!

Pink blob with little shimmers!

As you can see, the primer is pink with little shimmers in it. This helps you to achieve a dewy finish with 'ampule' shine. Basically you apply it before putting on your BB cream or foundation to allow smoother application. It blends really well and settles nicely into any skin shade, with minimal shimmers visible.

Comparison under natural, sunlight

Close-up of shimmer

Comparison under white light

As you can see, the shimmers are only visible under the white light (as compared to being under the sunlight), and since you will be adding either foundation or BB cream on top, you don't have to worry about the shimmers -- they are definitely not over-bearing!

Comparison: with and without primer

As you can see (even though the 'after' picture is a little blur) that the shimmers are minimal, gives a pink-toned glow and also cover some of my wide pores. The coverage is light and cover some of my scars and tiny hairs and it does make foundation application smoother, easier but it does not truly fill in the wide pores. It brightens up complexion as well!

The only thing I have against it is the oil-control. I recommend giving it some time to let it set on the face before applying the foundation for better oil-control. Still, my face (especially nose) starts to shine after 3-4 hours in the humid weather. 

Pros:
[o] Brightens complexion
[o] Dewy finish with no over-bearing shimmers
[o] Formula is not too sticky and glides on the skin easily, allowing it to blend into different skin shades.
[o] Hydrating formula, but recommended for people with dry-combination skin
[o] Creates a smoother canvas for foundation

Cons:
[x] Oil control could be improved. Oils up in 3-4 hours.
[x] Doesn't really even out skin tone, especially in red areas around my nose, or the dark eye circles beneath my eyes.
[x] Coverage is so-so, minimizes pores but doesn't actually fill them or totally cover them

Will I buy it again? Probably not. It's not really suited for my skin type, and there are some other brands I'm looking to try (Banila Co., anyone?) so I'd skip out on this one the next time. :)

[Review] Etude House Precious Mineral All Day Strong BB Cream #02

I've tried this BB cream for a couple of days (don't underestimate the power of this sample pack, since you only need a little BB cream for each use) and here's my final review of this.

My really tattered sample.
I forgot to take a photo before using! >///<

Using this much~

Ta daa~
Comparison; under natural, sunlight

Comparison, away from direct sun light

As you can see from the above picture, the side with the BB looks more dewy and slightly whiter than the one on the left. Coverage is not too bad, it kinda covered the colour of my veins; the cream looks darker than it actually is on my skin.

Even though #02 is suppose to be a natural-beige kind of colour, which is my usual shade range, especially in summer (and the first few months following it) it actually brightens up my face when I apply it, and sadly doesn't seem to oxidise well because I look a little too white at the end of the day. The formula feels a little sticky, but spreads out well when applied, and allows for a little layering (but not too much, I feel that it actually cakes up a little when too much is applied).

Comparing it under the sun and in a room, this BB actually don't look that bad when faced away from direct sunlight. It blends into my skin pretty well, not being a tad too bright, while still giving it that little shine, dewy kind of finish.

Pros:
[o] All day long is as suggested, pretty much long lasting. BUT! it does makes my face looks alittle too ash-white at the end of the day.
[o] A little bit goes a long way.
[o] Pretty much waterproof unless wiped under running water (unless you wipe your face with a towel under pouring rain, it probably won't come off)
[o] It gives a dewy kind of finish.

Cons:
[x] Does not oxidise well on my face -- I look really white at the end of the day under the sun!
[x] Oil control is so-so: Oils up about 3-4 hours.
[x] Could cake up a little/feel heavy if too much is used

Will I purchase again:
No. The formula isn't something I'm looking for, especially the oiling up part. I'm not too fond of looking too white either, sadly. I'd probably be looking into their newer BB cream formulas, which I hope had made adjustments to suit combi-oily skin like mine.

[Review] Nature Republic Red Clay Konjac Sponge

About: Nature Republic Vegetable Konjac -- Red Clay Cleansing Puff
            Konjac 90% & Red Clay 10%
            Korean Red Clay helps with sebum absorption, and oil control, maintain balance               of oil and water (pH levels, basically)
     1. Red Clay Control Sebum O.K.
               Excellent sebum control helps skin balance water and oil.
     2. All skin type O.K.
              Vegetable product can be applied for all skn types.
    3. After washing face, moisture retaining O.K.
              Cleans contaminant and helps to keep skin moisturized for a long time.

Nature Republic Red Clay Konjac Sponge

This is not my first konjac sponge; I previously used one from a Taiwan brand, which I bought at Watsons, but I thought I'd try this red clay one from Nature Republic (through GMarket) since oil control is one of my biggest problems.

I would say that it is definitely a good cleansing tool for the face because of its shape. These konjac sponges are half a sphere in shape, where the round side is good for the cheeks and the flatter side for the areas around the eyes and the sides of the face, and is gentle on the face.

I think Nature Republic's konjac sponge was slightly better than the one from Taiwan because of its high moisture content. This one locks water content better to allow better foaming of the soap for cleansing, and while I'm a little sceptical about the oil control part, I'd say that it does exfoliate lightly, and my face feels smoother after using this. And moisturised too! Definitely going to be part of my cleansing routine. :)

Pros: 

[o] Great cleansing tool -- especially when cleaning areas around the eyes due to its special shape.

[o] Gently exfoliate skin for a smooth finish

[o] A little oil control

Cons:

[x] You'd have to change this every 3-4 months