Recent Beauty Buys: May 2015

Hello everyone I hope you are all doing well. With summer almost here, I have been trying really hard to declutter my beauty bags and finish up products. Obviously the first ones to go were some of my favorites so over the past few weeks I have been replenishing my stash. Off with the old (goodbye face mask that’s 3 years old) and in with the new.

First of all we have the Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner (full review here), I went without this for a while and boy did I miss it. This gentle toner exfoliates your skin to leave it brighter and more even toned. For me daily usage of this helps fade any little red marks left behind by pesky spots.

Continuing with the same goal of more even skin, I finally purchased a full size Clarins One-Step Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser. I used samples of this for over a year so I never had to actually buy. However, I was recently left sample-less and this was too good not to have again. It’s a light gel cleanser with exfoliating particles that leave me with fresh feeling skin in the morning. It’s truly a lovely product and it gives you smoother skin while still being gentle enough for daily use.

Next I needed to repurchase The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil, a tiny bottle of magic as far as I’m concerned. One drop of this applied to any spots helps tone down redness and makes them heal faster. Also unlike less natural spot treatments, this oil does not dry out the surrounding skin. It’s an amazing product that I’m never without and its small size makes it easy to take with you when travelling.

Lastly I have a new hair product that was picked up on a whim after seeing it on a few blogs: the John Frieda Beach Blonde Sea Waves Sea Salt Spray. I’ve never had much luck with salt sprays, I think my hair is just too long and heavy for them. However this looked interesting and I think it might be nice to give some texture to my hair or simply make it look nicer after a day by the pool.

So there you have it, a quick look at my most recent beauty (re)purchases. I really like reading this type of posts because they show true favorites. Have you purchased anything new recently? Any must-have summer products I need to get my hands on? I would love to hear from you. 

Grey's Anatomy

I love television. In fact, love is probably not strong enough to describe how passionate I am about it. Nonetheless, some TV shows leave a more lasting impression than others. The 11th season of Grey’s Anatomy ended two weeks ago and now that the dust has settled, I thought I would share with you my thoughts on a series that is very dear to me.

I discovered Grey’s Anatomy when it was in its fourth season, and started watching season three after a friend recommended it. I still have her note explaining who the characters were because I hadn’t watched the first two seasons. I instantly fell in love with, so much so that as soon as I finished the DVD I had borrowed, I begged my mom to take me to the store so I could get the entire season. Waiting a whole weekend to see what happened next was just not an option.

The premise of the show is that it follows the lives of new surgical residents in a Seattle hospital. Through both their patients and glimpses of their personal lives, you learn and start caring for all the doctors. Life can be complicated but following Meredith Grey can put everything in perspective. I also found all the medical content interesting and as a native French speaker, Grey’s Anatomy greatly helped me improve my English and learn words that were not thought in English class.

I have always been fascinated by biology and so, I wish I had discovered the show earlier because it might have given me the extra push to become a doctor. I heard that quite a few people decided to go to medical school after watching it and I can see why, even though it is far from easy it also seems incredibly gratifying and interesting (you always have to keep learning). For me though, I felt like it was a bit too late to make changes to my school schedule, but had I had that push/motivation before, I would have focused more in math class.

Something else worth mentioning is the music used in the series, it is very unique. You can usually recognize the show simply by hearing its soundtrack because they only use a certain style of songs. You might discover new and less mainstream artists which is always nice.

Even though the more recent seasons of Grey’s Anatomy are not as good as they used to be, it still worth watching if only for those first seasons alone. It is one of those rare television series that will make you laugh and cry and change your perspective on things. I for one, feel much more comfortable being in a hospital (not as a patient) and actually find them calming in a strange way. They feel familiar so I don’t get nervous like other visitors might, because I have a better understanding of how things work there.

You can get Grey’s Anatomy on DVD on Amazon and in stores, 10 seasons are currently available and you can stream them all on Netflix or get them on iTunes. 

Lioele Waterdrop Sleeping Pack

Who doesn’t love an innovative beauty product? After a while the beauty realm can get a bit repetitive, but thankfully brands always manage to come up with something new and unique. The Lioele Waterdrop Sleeping Pack has one of the most fun and innovative formula so let’s see if its effects are as good.

This sleeping pack promises to moisturize and firm your skin with things like Swiss Alpine extract (I’m not really sure what that is) while you sleep. So far, nothing really new here, but the way the formula applies is actually the inventive part. The light blue gel reacts when you rub it on your skin and creates tiny little water droplets that you can massage into your face to moisturize it. This is such a cool product! The little droplets amaze me every time and they make using this product really enjoyable.

Now the results you get from this are sadly not as amazing as the application process. Sure my skin felt moisturize in the morning, but it was not any different from using a simple lotion. The one thing I did not enjoy was that it left my face a bit sticky both right after the application, but also the following morning. In the winter I wouldn’t mind as much but in warm, humid weather I really don’t like the feeling. All in all this is quite a gimmicky product that is fun to play with, but don’t expect incredible changes to your skin.

The Lioele Waterdrop Sleeping Pack can be found online and maybe in your local Asian beauty store. I purchased mine from Ebay. 

Dior Backstage Eye Prime

I think it is fair to say from past articles that I don’t like talking about products I don’t like and today’s item is not bad or anything but I’m a bit disappointed in it. Dior is my favorite high-end brand but their Backstage Eye Prime has left me a bit perplexed.

Basically, this is a flesh-toned cream eyeshadow primer that is supposed to extend the wear and intensity of your eye makeup, turning your eyes into a perfect canvas. I loved it when I first got it, my shadows lasted all day with no creasing and unlike other primers, its drier texture made it super easy to blend my makeup. The thing is, now it does not prevent my makeup from creasing anymore. I’m not sure what happened, maybe my lids are oilier or it’s because the formula dried out a bit. That’s another thing, you have to be careful to really tightly screw the lid back in its place otherwise the formula will dry out. Luckily, I was able remove it from the pot and put it back upside-down so I can use the bottom half that was still fresh.

Now, the primer does not perform exactly like it used to but there is something it’s still great at: color-correcting my lids. I have very fair skin and as such the skin on my eyes is quite thin so you can see little veins. The Dior primer has a very natural skin tone color that I can blend to cover up the veins and perfectly even out my eyes, making them look brighter and more awake. I love using this on days when I don’t want to wear any eye makeup, but still want to look well rested. 

The formula of this is very dry so you do need to warm it up on your fingertip to make it easier to apply. Some might not like this, but the matte finish it gives to the skin is more natural looking and since it doesn’t leave your eyelids tacky, your eyeshadows will blend more easily and without dragging. Honestly, I don’t know if I would recommend this product as a primer (mostly because it’s expensive) since I can’t guaranty its effect in the long run. However, if you are looking for a corrector the Backstage Eye Prime is great and who knows, yours might be efficient at keeping your makeup in place too. 

You can get the Dior Backstage Eye Prime from their website and at any of their Counters. It is also available from Sephora and Feelunique.

How to Get a Brighter Smile

Who does not wish to have a bright set of pearly whites? Having a nice white smile is something most of us aspire to, however using whitening strips or getting your teeth professionally whiten will not do much in the long run if you don’t take care or your smile. Today I thought I’d round up my favorite products to keep my smile radiant and give me more confidence.

First of all you need a good toothbrush. Please ditch your old/frayed toothbrush and get yourself a GUM Technique Deep Clean Toothbrush. This is what your teeth have been dreaming of, a toothbrush with super fine and tapered bristles that allow you to get to hard to reach areas. I have never used anything like it, my teeth have been cleaner and even my dentist noticed a difference since I switched to this.

Now for your second most important tool: toothpaste. I have been loving the Crest Pro-Health Sensitive and Enamel Shield Gel Toothpaste in Soothing Smooth Mint for the last two years. It’s a gel toothpaste with little particles that really deep-cleans your teeth and mouth. It creates a finer foam than traditional toothpastes and my mouth always feels fresher after I use it. Unlike other products, it never made my teeth sensitive and the soothing smooth mint flavor is refreshing but not too strong.

Next is the bane of any routine, yes I’m talking about floss. I used to hate flossing, don’t get me wrong I still don’t like it now, but the Oral-B Glide 3D White Floss makes it more bearable. Unlike other floss, this is not a string that hurts your gums, it is a thin flat ribbon that smoothly goes between your teeth. This floss is never uncomfortable to use and the minty flavor does not burn but instead leaves a nice taste in your mouth.

Lastly is something that I don’t consider a must-have, nonetheless I like to use it from time to time. In the past, I could not use mouthwash because I found them too strong, the Crest 3D White Glamorous White Rinse Mouthwash was the perfect solution. I can now enjoy the feel of a super clean mouth without the burn of alcohol/mint. I don’t use this every time I brush my teeth, but it is nice to use after flossing or before going to bed. 

I hope you find this post helpful and that it will inspire you take better care of your teeth. You can find all these products in most drugstore and they are all affordable. Do you have any favorite products or tips to get a whiter smile? I would love to hear from you?

Dior Addict Lipstick Tie-Dye Edition in Coral Trip

As promised, I finally have a review to give you on the Dior Addict Lipstick Tie-Dye Edition in Coral Trip. Honestly I wanted to write the review sooner, but for some reason it did not happen. I feel like I’m suffering from a bit of writer’s block so hopefully my self-imposed writing afternoon will be productive. Now let’s get to the good part.

I absolutely love Dior lipsticks, the packaging is beyond gorgeous and everything you would expect from a high-end product. I mean if you are spending a pretty penny on a lipstick you want it to look good too because it adds to the experience and luxury. Coral trip is a gorgeous coral color that manages to be perfectly balanced, it’s not too pink or orange. The center of the bullet has the CD logo engraved in a darker coral color and surprisingly it runs all the way through the bullet. This shows real attention to details because companies that do something like this usually do it as a superficial layer, like a shimmery overspray on a powder.

The Dior Addict Tie-Dye Edition lipsticks come in six colors but coral trip is my absolute favorite. It brightens your complexion and looks perfect for spring and summer. I don’t usually wear coral, I find the perfect shade can be hard to find so I love how this one is truly coral without being too dark or bright. The formula is very creamy so you do get a bit of shine but they are not glossy. Also, it lasts very well on the lips and it does not leave them dry. In a pinch, it also makes for a great blush. This is quite a unique release from Dior and I would highly recommend you have a look at them. Coral trip is a must-have in my book, but the other colors are gorgeous too.

You can find the Dior Addict Lipstick Tie-Dye Edition in Coral Trip for a limited time on the Dior website and at any of their counters. It is also available from Feelunique. 

Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara

Let’s talk about mascara shall we? Recently, I have been trying to go through my stash of mascaras and I thought it was about time I gave the Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara a go. My love for Maybelline mascaras is well documented on here so let’s see if this one can hold up to the others.

This latest offering from the brand promises a “full fan effect” with the help of 10 layers of bristle on a curved wand. The wand follows the contour of the eyes really well and the longer bristles at the end do give your lashes a more fanned out effect. In the length and volume department, you get a decent amount of both, but this mascara focuses more on defining and curling your lashes. The wand allows you to get between your lashes and separate them, making your eyes look more open. The overall effect is quite impressive, especially for such and affordable product.

The formula itself is great too, the color is very intense and it does not smudge or flake off. I did not purchase the waterproof version but once it dries, the mascara really sets and holds the curl. The Lash Sensational is one of the best mascaras I have tried for holding a curl, my lashes were in fact still perfectly curled at the end of the day. However all these amazing results come at a price, I find it very hard to remove. To me this is a big drawback because I removing my eye makeup is my least favorite part of my skincare routine. Even with a cleansing oil, I need to scrub quite a bit and still found some residue and smudges afterwards.  This does not stop the mascara from being amazing but it is important to consider when using it. If you know you’ll be coming home late you might when to use something else because it will be hard to remove and no one wants to mess around with makeup remover when they are tired. 

You can find the Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara on their website and on Feelunique as well as in most drugstores. 

Shiseido Luminizing Satin Face Color in RD103 Petal

Today was spent doing some spring cleaning (windows are definitely not my forte) and watching the last game of this Bundesliga season. As a result I have a quick review for you all today on a very warm-weather appropriate blush, the Shiseido Luminizing Satin Face Color in RD103 Petal.

This is my first foray into Shiseido makeup and I’m impressed. This blush is super pigmented and has a lovely formula that is super soft and smooth, not powdery. You should use a light hand when applying it because even though the powder is very light (it is very finely milled), it packs a punch in the color department. On me it wore well throughout the day with only minimal fading.

Now for the shade, I have this blush in petal, a lovely peachy-coral color that looks super luminous on the skin. It is a bit similar to Nars Orgasm and Deep Throat, but it is slightly peachier and has no shimmer at all. I was actually quite surprised by how true to its name this blush is: the finish truly is luminous so you still get a glow but it is more natural and satin really is the best way to describe the finish. The shade and formula are both gorgeous and I think this blush could enhance pretty much any complexion with its gold sheen. If you are looking for a great everyday blush that is shimmer-free but still looks radiant, I highly recommend you have a look at the Shiseido blushes.  

You can find the Shiseido Luminizing Satin Face Color in RD103 Petal at any Shiseido counter, on their website as well as at Sephora and Feelunique. 

Innisfree Calming Gel Cleanser

Well guys, I think I might have found the perfect morning cleanser. As much as I love cleansing oils in the evening, I like to use something simple and light in the morning. My latest favorite comes from one of my favorite Korean brands (surprise, surprise) and let me tell you that I am very impressed by the Innisfree Calming Gel Cleanser.

According to Innisfree, this is a low acid cleanser that soothes your skin with dandelion extract. The main reason I was drawn to this was that it contains dandelion, I know all about the amazing effects the plant can have to detoxify the body so I thought it would be interesting to use it on my skin as well. Also, it is free of sulfate surfactants, mineral oil, animal ingredients, colorant and synthetic fragrance which is great if you are looking for something a bit more natural.

I love using this in the morning, the gel is light and feels refreshing on your face, perfect to wake you up. Unlike other gel cleansers, this one does not foam or leave a residue behind when you wash it off. It has a very thin formulation and I was surprised to see I could use it to massage my face just like I would with a cleansing oil, but it is not oily at all. After each use I am left with soft, soothed, and balanced skin and it does not cause any redness on my face. Some cleansers can leave you a bit irritated in the morning, especially if you need to scrub your face to get them off. The only thing I don’t love about is the scent, it is kind of citrusy and a bit odd but don’t worry it is not strong. 

You can find the lovely Innisfree Calming Cleansing Gel on their website here. 

Alba Botanica Rejuvenating Papaya Mango Hawaiian Body Cream

Hello everyone, I hope you are all enjoying the warmer weather and sunshine. With all the lovely weather we have been having in Canada I started rotating my current body care routine to go for lighter and more refreshing textures. After all no one likes a heavy moisturizer when it’s hot and humid outside. So recently I have been loving my Alba Botanica Rejuvenating Papaya Mango Hawaiian Body Cream.

Upon first look, this looks like quite a rich body butter, but in fact it is a light cream with a fluffy texture that melts into your skin. It is does not feels greasy or leave any stickiness behind, a must during warmer seasons. Even though it is light, it manages to deeply nourish and moisturize your skin. I’m left with smooth and supple skin every time I use it.

In contains a lot of soothing ingredients like aloe and rosehip which is very nice, but it does not have as many organic ingredients as their Hawaiian Body Wash. Nonetheless it is still free of a lot of chemicals and contains mostly natural ingredients (read more about them here). Now for my favorite part of this cream: the scent. The papaya mango scent is amazing, it’s super fruity with a strong mango scent that is not too sweet. If you are looking for a new affordable body moisturizer, this one is incredible and you should definitely check it out. 

You can get the Alba Botanica Rejuvenating Papaya Mango Hawaiian Body Cream on their website, at Target and from health food stores that carry the brand. 

Once Upon a Time

Generally speaking, summer tends to be the least exciting season in TV land, most shows have had their season finale and new offerings are quite slim. So I have taken on myself to recommend new shows for you all to watch so you’ll be ready when you feel like binge watching something or when the weather is not on your side.

One that I started (and finished) recently is Once Upon a Time, the story of a small town in Maine called Storybrookes where everyone is actually a fairy tale character but they have no memory of it. Flashbacks allow you to know what happened in the magical world and in the present day we follow Emma Swan as she learns about every character and tries to bring their memories back. The show is full of magic and colorful villains, it is quite funny. Let’s not forget the cast which has amazing actors with great chemistry and comedic timing (Lana Parrilla as the Evil Queen is incredible).

I’m not sure why I never watched it before to be honest, the premise is something I would enjoy (and so would any Disney fans) but for some reason it fell through the cracks. Unlike your average TV show, Once Upon a Time gets better every season. I liked season one but did not thinking it was amazing, however I still gave season 2 a shot and it got better and funnier. In the end I really enjoy going back to childhood fairy tales and revisiting the stories with new added twists.

Watch season one's trailer here.

You can find the first three seasons of Once Upon a Time on DVD both in stores and online and you can also watch all the episodes on Netflix. 

Dior Sunwashed Nail Lacquer

Ever since the promo images for Dior’s Tie-Dye collection were released, I could not stop thinking about the Sunwashed Nail Lacquer. The pastel yellow shade was calling my name. Now, after months of waiting and wanting, I finally managed to get my hands on this gorgeous shade.

Dior nail polishes are my favorite, the formula is out of this world, I’m talking high-shine and super quick dry time without a top coat. All that aside, the wear time is equally impressive with about five days of chip-free polish (more or less depending on what you are doing). Sunwashed does require three coats for a perfectly opaque creamy finish, but don’t worry the application is still quick because you don’t have to wait long between coats.

Now about the color, to me Sunwashed is this year Porcelaine (reviewed here). The sky blue shade is what I wore for most of the spring and summer last year and it is still one of my favorites. Sunwashed is equally as unique, a light pastel buttery yellow color with a bit of a white base so it does not look too yellow or have a green tint. Obviously it depends on your skin tone, but I think it is super flattering and also natural. It is not in your face bright so it is very versatile and perfect for spring. Honestly just looking at it makes me happy and what could be a better addition to your collection than a polish that will make you smile every time you see it.    

The Dior Sunwashed Nail Lacquer is currently available for a limited time from any Dior counter and online as well as from Sephora and Feelunique. 

L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Tinted Self-Tanning Golden Mousse

The weather has finally gotten nice which means it’s time to dust off the self-tanner bottles again. In the past, I’ve never had much luck with drugstore self-tanners, they are usually too orange, look streaky or don’t have much color payoff. Two weeks ago I decided to take a chance and purchased the L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Tinted Self-Tanning Golden Mousse in Medium Natural Tan.

Honestly I don’t really know what to say about this product, the mousse was very light and easy to apply. It dried quickly and unlike some lotions, it doesn’t feel tacky or like you have anything on your skin. Also, bonus points for it not staining my sheets even though the mousse instantly gives your skin a golden tint. The next day I woke up to one of the most natural looking tan ever. The color is not orange at all, it just looks golden and real unlike pretty much any other drugstore options.

Well, this sounds quite nice doesn’t it, but there is a big flaw to this product. It is not water-resistant at all. I mean, one drop of water and you are left with pale tan-less spot on your skin. So you can image this is not ideal to use on your upper body, I was left with long streaks on my arms after simply washing my hands. I guess it would be fine to use just on your legs if you are careful, but do not use this mousse if you plan on going near water or if it’s supposed to rain. I can easily image the polka dotted streaky disaster this could turn into.

I feel like this is such a shame, L’Oréal totally nailed the color on this one but the formula definitely needs some improvement. If you want to try it out for yourself you can find the L’Oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Tinted Self-TanningGolden Mousse at most drugstores. 

N.B. I just saw on the L’Oréal website that they discontinued this product (I can see why), however it is still available at retailers. I personally will go for another product from the Sublime Bronze range instead next time and hopefully the color will be as gorgeous.

L'Oréal Paris Arginine Resist X3 Shampoo and Conditioner

In an effort to save the last drops of my beloved Kérastase shampoo, I went shopping for a new affordable shampoo and conditioner set. I really enjoy L’Oréal Paris haircare products as they always deliver good results and smell great. This time, I decided to go for something a bit different from the usual moisturizing/shine inducing products and purchased the Arginine Resist X3 Shampoo and Conditioner.

Both products come in large bottles and have a creamy formula that is easy to apply and rinse out. Scent-wise the fragrance is very classic L’Oréal, it just smells clean like a salon product which I really enjoy because it feels like you are pampering yourself when you use it.

Now for the actual results: this line is designed to reinforce your hair to help prevent hair loss and strengthen them so you are left with nourished and stronger hair. From my experience all the claims are true, my hair did feel more nourished and strangely it felt stronger too. It is very hard to explain but when I hold it feels like there is more to it than normal. When I brushed my hair, I did noticed less hair were left behind on the brush, but I cannot say for sure yet if this is solely due to the use of these products.

The L’Oréal Paris Arginine Resist X3 Shampoo and Conditioner have proved to be lovely drugstore products that I can recommend to everyone. You can find them in most drugstores and L’Oréal retailers for a very affordable price.   

Dior Tie-Dye Summer Collection Haul and Sneak Peek

Hello everyone, today I just wanted to bring you a quick haul and sneak peek into upcoming reviews. Yesterday I went to the Dior counter and let’s just say I could not resist their new Tie-Dye summer collection, it is so beautiful. I only got two things but the eyeshadow palettes were very hard to leave behind.

The one thing I really wanted from the collection was the Sunwashed nail polish, a lovely pastel yellow color. To me this is a must-have because it is so unique and the Dior nail polish formula is my all-time favorite.

I also could not resist the Dior Addict Lipstick Tie-Dye Edition in Coral Trip. I was looking for a new coral lipstick and this one just has the perfect shade. I love the Dior Addict finish because they have the perfect balance of creaminess and shine.

This is hands down my favorite summer collection out of all the new releases. It’s fun and colorful while still being wearable. I urge you all to have a look at it because Dior has done it again!

You can have a look at the entire Tie-Dye collection on the Dior website here and it is currently available at all Dior counters, Feelunique and Sephora for a limited time only. 

Innisfree Volcanic Pore Clay Mask

If you are a regular reader of the blog then you might have noticed me mentioning the Innisfree clay masks. So I figured it was time I finally gave the Volcanic Pore Clay Mask a proper review seeing as it is one of my all-time favorite products from the brand.

This clay mask contains volcanic scoria which is made from cooled down lava and it has a creamy texture that makes it a dream to apply. Unlike a lot of other clay masks, this does not feel drying or tight as it dries and because its temperature is quite cool it feels refreshing when you apply it.

To me this is the perfect mask for weekly pore maintenance. It absorbs excess sebum and keeps my pores clean. If I am experiencing breakouts, it will sooth the skin and help them heal more quickly, however if you are looking for something more powerful to really bring all the gunk to the surface, the super version works better (review coming soon). I found that using this regularly keeps my skin clear without ever drying it out or irritating it. I have repurchased it twice already and I don’t see myself ever being without it.

Once again, Innisfree offers a very affordable mask that totally delivers on its claims. If you are interested, you can find the Innisfree Volcanic Pore Clay Mask on their website and you can also purchase it in both a larger and sample size.   

Clinique Long Last Lipstick in All Heart

When it comes to beauty gift with purchase, I feel like most of the makeup comes in dodgy or unpopular colors. The lipsticks are typically the biggest culprit with ageing brown or purple shade. So you can understand my surprise when I receive this lovely red Long Last Lipstick from Clinique in All Heart.

The cool-toned red is a far cry from the usual offering, the shade is actually quite brightening. I found it makes for a lovely berry stain when gently pressed into the lips, but I don’t love it as much when applied full-on. This is mostly due to the gold frost that is quite evident and I find that it can look a little ageing on me. On someone a bit older it might be great though because the color really brings life to the face.

As for the formula, don’t be fooled by the long last name, it is not drying or matte. In fact the lipstick feels very creamy and it has a nice shine on the lips which makes them look plumper. Nonetheless, it is in fact quite long lasting and fades evenly. It does not thickly coat the lips either so reapplying is easy. I was very impressed by the formula and I think the entire range is worth having a look at as you might find another shade that you like. They are quite reasonably priced and the regular packaging is very pretty.

You can find the Clinique Long Last Lipsticks from any Clinique counter and on their website.

Bourjois 1 Seconde Nail Enamel in Rouge in Style

Like most girls, I love wearing nail polish and while my application technique has improved from the days where I would coat nail and cuticle in a thick layer of polish, the one thing that has not changed is my patience. I just can’t sit still once I have painted them which often results in me denting the polish, frustratingly giving up on the whole affair and removing everything. So when I got the Bourjois 1 Seconde Nail Enamel in Rouge in Style as a gift with purchase from Boots, I was intrigued.

The idea of such a polish conjured images of perfectly painted nails and no maddening battles with nail polish remover. According to Bourjois, you can paint your nails in one second due to the gel formula and it large brush with a curved edge. In reality, I would say that it takes a bit more than one second but the brush fits the nailbed really well and to formula is so creamy and pigmented that you can easily get away with one coat.

As for the results, the finish is glossy and the polish dries very quickly. I think this is the perfect to use when you are in a hurry and it is quite a handy product to have around. That being said, for all the positive aspects the formula lacks in wear-time. This sadly did not last more than a day without chipping on me. Obviously with such a vibrant shade the chips were quite noticeable so I mostly use it when I’m in a hurry because it looks gorgeous when first painted on.

If I were to purchase one from the line, I would go for a lighter color since any chipping would be less noticeable. To me this is quite a convenient polish to own because of the formula, but I would not say it is a must-have. 

The Bourjois 1 Seconde Nail Enamel is available from Boots and Superdrug in the U.K., you can also find it on Feelunique or have a look at the Bourjois website for store locators. 

Luna and Larry’s Organic Dark Chocolate Coconut Bliss: Healthy Ice Cream Option

Living a healthy lifestyle is something I aim to do every day: I go to bed early(ish), drink plenty of water, exercise and eat generally healthy. However, like most, I have my weaknesses which usually come in the form of sugar namely: chocolate and ice cream. As much as I try not to indulge too much, I usually feel guilty when I have ice cream because I am lactose intolerant, so I’m sure having some regularly and needing to take medication for it is not good for my body. On the off chance you are like me, don’t desperate as I might have found the answer to our problem: the Luna and Larry’s Organic Dark Chocolate Coconut Bliss.

This is basically a dairy/soy/gluten-free ice cream made with only four simple ingredients: organic coconut mill, organic agave syrup, organic fair trade vanilla extract and organic fair trade cocoa. First of all, let me just say the name is spot on because this is truly blissful. I am not a fan of coconut, I don’t like the scent or the taste but for some reason I love this ice cream.

It is super creamy and rich (just like regular ice cream) and the dark chocolate flavor is absolutely delicious, not bitter at all just sweet chocolaty goodness. There is a slight coconut taste when you first taste it, but I found that the chocolate soon comes in and masks it so you cannot even tell it is made with coconut milk. This truly makes for a lovely dessert and while I would not say it is healthy (it is a dessert after all), it is certainly healthier than regular ice cream and it contains far less sugar. If you are an ice cream lover I cannot recommend this enough! 

Luna and Larry’s offer a wide range of flavors of “ice cream” and you can get them along with the dark chocolate one in certain health food stores. You can find a store locator for the US and Canada here. 

Formula 10.0.6 Deep Down Detox Mask

I love a good mud mask, nothing feels better than having a lovely pamper evening relaxing in front of the TV and knowing your skin will improve itself while you do so. To get the benefits though, you need an effective formula and for me the Formula 10.0.6 Deep Down Detox Mask has been quite a nice discovery.

The mask contains a combination of kaolin, sea salt, orange and bergamot to cleanse impurities and detoxify the skin, leaving it clearer. This pinky-white clay mask is very creamy and applies like a charm so you are left with a nice even layer. The formula is also quite cool which instantly refreshes your skin while the scent of orange and bergamot uplifts your senses. I really like how it dries quickly but never feels too tight or uncomfortable.

For the formula alone, I love using this but its effects are quite impressive as well (especially for a drugstore product). Every time I use it, my skin feel softer and clearer making appear more radiant at the same time. To me the results show that it is quite a strong/powerful mask and I was very surprised by them because my skin was never irritated or red after use. Some kaolin/clay mask I have used in the past left me with bright red skin so I’m always a bit nervous when I try a new one. The Formula 10.0.6 mask really has the perfect balance of effectiveness and soothing effect so I believe most people would love it. 

The Formula10.0.6 Deep Down Detox Mask is a great affordable mask which you can pick up on their website, at Target and you can find stockists by countries here. 

How to Train Your Dragon

Yesterday was a bit odd… I mean it was nice to spend the whole day at home and relax, but it was not perfect either: humid gloomy weather, my football /soccer team lost an important game and I was not very inspired to write beauty reviews. So to cheer myself up I turn to the dream team: an animated movie and chocolate. You cannot go wrong with some Disney magic right? Well in this case it was DreamWorks, so off to the DVD player the latest How to Train Your Dragon movie went. 

           

In case you haven’t seen any movies from the franchise (where have you been) I thought mentioning it here would be a good idea because they are such fantastic films. The story is about Vikings that live on an island and experience problems with dragons. As a result they keep fighting them until our hero realises that dragons are not what they are made out to be. The relationship between Hiccup (hero) and Toothless (dragon) is super sweet and he is such a cute/endearing character (I know, weird to say about a dragon). This is such an incredibly heartwarming and funny story that I really don’t think age matters here, most would enjoy it. Also the sequel was equally as good, which let’s face it, rarely happens.

You can watch the trailer for the first movie here and the sequel here. 

I highly recommend you watch How to Train Your Dragon 1 and 2 if you are looking for some great entertainment. On a side note, if you speak French I would watch the French version, I much prefer the voices over the English ones. You can find it on DVD in stores, on Amazon and if you are a more digital kind of person, it is available on iTunes and Netflix. Now all there is left to do is wait for 2018 for the third movie to come out. 

Sources: Image 1, Image 2

Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micelle Solution

I feel like we are quite lucky beauty-wise here in Canada, many French-pharmacy and European brands are readily available and we also get new American products quite quickly. And let’s not even mention Sephora and all the Asian beauty stores you can go to in bigger cities. I feel very fortunate that I can go to pretty much any drugstore and pick up a bottle of the Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micelle Solution. I know this product is quite difficult to come by depending on your location so I wanted to give my two cents on it so you can decide whether it is worth hunting down for yourself.

 I won’t beat around the bush: this micellar water is one of the most amazing products I have ever used. It is my favorite makeup remover (along with my Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil) because it just works so well and is super-efficient. You simply pour some onto a cotton pad and gently wipe it around your face and eyes. It removes all your makeup, though mascara and eyeliner included, without causing any irritation or redness. It’s like magic really, and I love how it gets the job done quickly so you can move on to a second cleanse or other steps of your routine.

Unlike other micellar water, the Bioderma one does not leave any residue or stickiness behind, making it perfect to take with you on a plane to cleanse and refresh your face when you cannot do a proper cleanse. It also makes for a life-saver when you’ve had a long day/night and you get home very late: with it you have no excuse not to remove your makeup and I promise your skin will thank you in the morning.

The BiodermaSensibio H2O Micelle Solution comes in many different sizes from the large one with a pump all the way to the travel-friendly mini bottles. Depending on your location you can find it on Feelunique and Bioderma also offers international websites with store locators for your convenience. In the US it is exclusive to Beautylish.   

Handbag Essential: L’Occitane Hand Cream

Hand cream is an everyday necessity for me which is why I always carry a tube with me. It needs to be compact but deliver in terms of hydration and a nice scent is always a plus. So today I thought I would share with you all one my handbag essential, the L’Occitane Hand Cream.

I feel like this product needs no introduction, it is considered a must-have by many and is simply a solid product. The small plastic tube is one of the main reason I love carrying this in my purse, it does not leak and it’s not bulky since you can flatten it as you use it. Unlike metal tubes, I find that it doesn’t crack or leak when you are on a plane, which is a major plus because cleaning up hand cream is super messy and unpleasant (firsthand experience here).

Now for the actual cream, the formula is very moisturizing and not greasy. It actually feels more like a lotion and it is one of the fastest absorbing hand creams I have tried. The original one that smells like shea butter is richer however, so it does take a bit longer to sink in. Scent-wise, my favorites are the cherryblossom and the vanilla bouquet one. If you are looking for a hand cream that you can apply on the go and that will not leave any residue behind, I think you just found it. 

The L’Occitane Hand Creams are widely available from places like Sephora, Feelunique and the L’Occitane website. 

Innisfree Cleansing Sponge

The beauty world is full of gadgets that are getting more high-tech every year. We now have so many options when it comes to cleansing our face that picking the right tool might take you longer than actually washing your face. I have always been a fan of using a soft washcloth (keeping it simple you know) and while fancy face brushes have their appeal I never took the plunge. Recently however, I welcomed a new addition to my beauty cabinet and this simple tool has become a permanent fixture in my routine. Say hello to the Innisfree Cleansing Sponge.

This little sponge is made of 100% konjac root and once you run it under water, its hard surface turns into the softest almost jelly-like sponge. I find that this is a much gentler way of cleaning your face, you can add the cleanser directly to the sponge, but I like to use it to massage the cleanser that is already on my face and it helps removing it without causing redness or irritation. It is lovely to use in the morning when you don’t feel like splashing your face with water. It is said to very gently exfoliate your skin (it is more textured than your hands) and I think any of you with sensitive skin would like it.

I own two versions made by Innisfree, the white one which is a basic konjac sponge and the brown one which also contains volcanic scoria to offer more exfoliating properties. Honestly the difference between the two is minimal but the brown one is larger and is great to use on your face or body. Innisfree also offers a body sponge and it looks like it is larger and more textured.

As you would with any other cleansing device you do need to wash these regularly and try to hang them so they can dry properly and don’t get moldy (they come on a little string). I was very impressed with these sponges, they work well and unlike the ones from other brands, they are super affordable which is great considering that they won’t last forever. They are natural after all.

If you are interested you can find all of the Innisfree Cleansing Sponges on their website with prices varying from 4$ to 10$ (a real steal).

Clear Total Care Shampoo and Conditioner

Even though I have already sung my love of Kérastase hair products (here), it does not stop me from trying products from more affordable brands. When Miranda Kerr was made a spokesperson for Clear Scalp and Hair, I knew right away I needed to try something from the brand. I know… this is not the best reason to buy something, but what can I say I just love Miranda Kerr. So to the store I went and came back with the Clear Total Care Shampoo and Conditioner. 

As it turned out, these are some of the best hair products I have ever used. Both the shampoo and conditioner promise smooth hair with shine and body and they deliver on all claims. Every time I use them, my hair feels nourished, moisturised and has great shine. I would not call them volumizing but they do not leave my hair flat and frizz is replaced by smoothness.

Clear really focuses on the health of the scalp and not just the actual hair, making it great if you have a sensitive scalp like mine because each use left it feeling well-balance. I have been through about 4 bottles of each and I every time I go back to it I’m impressed by the result. I can’t quite put my finger on it but my hair just looks great and my scalp feels better. Drugstore shampoos and conditioners don’t always live up to their claims but this dreamy duo could easily pass for a high-end product, it is that good.

Clear offers a wide variety of affordable haircare products and you can find the Total Care Shampoo and Conditioner in most drugstores as well as a list of online retailers on their website. 

Tea Tuesday: Kusmi BB Detox Tea

The main reason I like to drink tea is for its known health benefits, but as with everything else, certain teas are much better for you than others. Luckily, choosing a healthier tea does not mean you have to drink something weird and grass-tasting. Kusmi makes some of my favorite teas and its BB Detox Tea is my pick for today’s Tea Tuesday.

This is the first detox tea that actually makes sense to me in terms of ingredients. This blend contains a base of green tea (antioxidants), mate, rooibos (anti-inflammatory), guarana, dandelion (detoxifies the liver) and it is flavored with a hint of grapefruit so it tastes great. The taste is quite light and sweet with a definite citrus base and I surprisingly enjoyed even though I am not typically a fan of citrus fruits. It is great to have in the morning as the grapefruit scent/taste is very uplifting and energising.

In all honesty, I have not experienced any spectacular effects from drink this, but I haven’t been drinking it daily. Kusmi does not state you should use this for a tea cleanse or a detox so it is different from other detox teas on the market. In my opinion this more like a great tea that can have health benefits over time and that contains ingredients that are known to have positive effects on the body. It can be a healthier option for your morning drink of choice and it is simply a good-tasting tea.

I have almost finished my little tin and I will purchase the larger size when it is done. Out of all the Kusmi teas I have tried, this is my favorite and the one I would recommend most. You can find the Kusmi BB Detox Tea on their website as well as in many health food/tea stores.

Disclaimer: I am not a health specialist, I just listed some of the known effects of the ingredients in this tea. Before making any substantial changes to your diet or starting a cleanse/detox you should talk with a health professional.