Skincare: What Cleans My Face?

Since my makeup days are over, I've been hoarding and trying new skincare products all the time. With extensive research, I really found myself interested in seeking for natural and organic skincare lines that have ingredients that I can identify myself. My first skincare routine post on this blog received a lot of love, so I decided to share a series of posts of what I'm currently using. Here are the cleansers that I've been loving recently:

Morning: Skin Essence Organics Fresh Facial Cleanser

This was the first facial wash that I ever tried that is oil based. It includes coconut oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, sunflower oil, and castor oil. What I really love about this cleanser is the scent - peppermint and lemongrass are such an energizing combination; the scent that is perfect for early mornings to help wake you up. I usually apply this straight to my dry face, massaging it all over my face (the vegetable glycerin base makes the product look very white on dry skin), and then I slowly incorporate some water to create a lather on my face before wiping everything off. This cleanser doesn't just wake me up in the morning, it really wakes my skin up, making it look and feel brighter, cleaner, and healthier. 

Evening: Province Apothecary Moisturizing Cleanser

This is a sample I got from the owner. It's really similar to the concept of the oil cleansing method, as the main ingredients to this facial wash are sunflower seed oil, jojoba oil, and avocado oil. The difference between this facial wash and the oil cleansing method is the other great nourishing ingredients that it has - such as vitamin e and essential oils. It's extremely gentle and very moisturizing for my dehydrated skin. I usually apply 2-3 pumps of the cleanser straight to my dry face, taking a few moments to really rub it all over my face. Then, I would take a hot damp face towel to drape it over my face as a "steam" to open up my pores to really allow the oil to sink in. After about 30 seconds, I'll slowly wipe off the cleanser. A big plus is the scent - very light and relaxing...perfect for ending your day! 

Travel: Consonant Organic Foaming Face Wash

This cleanser is great for all skin types. A foaming cleanser that will not strip away your skin's natural oils. In fact, it does a great job at cleaning your skin from environmental factors and fighting blemishes, as well as rehydrating your skin with Grape Seed Oil. I visit my boyfriend every couple of weeks and this have been in my toiletry bag every time I pack up. It's in a plastic bottle, so it's super light and I don't have to worry about the container potentially shattering and spilling all over my bag. Also, it's easy to use - the foam makes it extremely easy to rub over my face and wipe off with water and hands. Overall, a great cleanser that will not throw off my skin, even if I only use it for a few washes when I'm on the go. 

All three of these brands are based in Toronto - local and organic! Just what I love! The oil-based cleansers are great for keeping moisture in my skin; the last thing I need in a skincare cleanser is for it to be oil striping. This whole combination is helping my skin cope with my diet change and environment change as I settle back home. Have been making my skin feel and look great - a big plus for going bare face everyday. Definitely cleansers that I will be repurchasing and recommending to others. 

<3

Susan 

Beauty: OOAK and LOVEFRESH

I have never attended any trade shows before, so when Stacey, the owner of LOVEFRESH, sent me a ticket to the One of a Kind Show in the mail - I was soooooo excited.

I took the train back to Toronto last Friday and coincidently, one of my best friends was also in the city for the day. Got her to come along and now we're both HOOKED to going to these shows.

One of a Kind Show is a show that happens twice a year in downtown Toronto - usually during the spring and before Christmas time. It has all independent, more or less, local businesses. You are truly getting items that you don't see in your everyday mall. This year, they introduced a mini ETSY section in the middle of the whole show.

TONS and tons of food samples around - shortbread cookies, chocolate, olive oil dips, baked goods, nuts, and soups; it's probably worth your ticket value.

I was very excited to see the whole LOVEFRESH line in a booth. I usually get my products from the Ten Spot and they only carry a small number of products. In fact, Stacey actually produces the Ten Spot's own line, GET NAILED, body products as well. Perfect to know that the products are all the same quality.

But, since I was at the show, I had to stock up on more goods. She had a deal of buy 3, get 1 free. So, Shannon and I decided to split it.

I got a new body scent that I never seen in stores - the Pomegranate. The power duo of the sugar body scrub and the body butter.

The sugar scrub is so gentle on your skin that it's perfect for the new changing weather as Spring kicks in. The body butter is extremely rich in good oils. It may feel greasy after applying, so I wouldn't recommend using this cream when you are in a rush to get changed and to run out the door. Perfect cream for night moisturizing and days that you can sit around in shorts and tank top to let it all soak in!

A perfect new duo that I'm so excited to be using in my bathroom soon!

I want to give Stacey and LOVEFRESH another big thank you for the ticket that opened my eyes to more local brands and my new love to go to more shows in the future!

<3

Susan

Beauty: Body Scrubs (TORONTO EDITION!)

With the looooooooonnnnnnnnng and never-ending winter, my skin is constantly dry; even if I bath in lotion for a night, my body will just absorb it all and still be dry. I used to use the bigger brand body scrubs back in the day, LUSH and the Body Shop, but I've recently really been into a more healthier approach for my skin. Been looking for more natural and, if available, organic local skincare. Do remember, your skin is your biggest organ and treating it with love is what will benefit you in the long run! 

As a girl from Toronto, I have tried three different local brands for salt and/or sugar scrubs for my body. So far, I've been enjoyed all three - but, each are very distinctly different that different people will probably prefer certain elements in a body scrub! 

LOVE FRESH Sugar Scrub ($30 CND)

LOVE FRESH was the first sugar scrub that has been hyped and used in many nail spas (e.g., TEN SPOT, Sekai Beauty Bar, etc.). The brand is very well-known and have been expanding quickly over the last few years. I believe you can find LOVE FRESH body products in Toronto Indigo/Chapter stores now! 

This scrub is very delicate for your skin. I really enjoy using this scrub more in the summer, since my skin isn't as dry. AND the scents - they are so summer-like and fruity, it's PERFECT for the warm weather. 

The only downfall that I found with this scrub is that it is not as mositurizing as I hope it would be. I would always have to use copious amount of body butter afterwards to ensure my skin is properly moisturized after scrubbing. 

Definitely recommend this scrub for those who have oily-normal skin type. And it's definitely going to be my summer go-to scrub for now on. 

I have tried a few of their scents so far - Key Lime Coconut Scrub, Pear, and Lemon Verbena. 

Consonant Skincare Skin Perfecting Body Scrub ($30 CND) - photo coming soon!

I recently picked this scrub up when I walked by a FUZZ Wax Bar location and saw a big chalkboard sign promoting soft skin for scrubbing. And I'm so glad I picked this scrub up, because this is what I needed after this long winter. Consonant is another all-natural skincare brand located in Toronto. 

The scrub is a mix of sugar and salt, giving two different dimensions of scrubbing for your skin. Usually salt is more coarse than sugar, giving it a more deeper scrub. What I really like about this scrub is the way my skin feels afterwards. You have to give this scrub a quick stir before you use it in your shower, because the oils separate from the sugar and salt. The main oils in this scrub are coconut oil and olive oil, which explains the separation. But, right when you step out of the shower, it leaves your skin feeling moisturized. I just used a lotion afterwards for extra moisture. 

Be aware that the salt scrub may be too abrasive for those with extremely sensitive skin, even with all the oils mixed along with this product. My skin turns slightly red after using this product that goes away after about 30 minutes. 

Crawford Street Skincare Grapefruit Mint Salt Body Scrub ($10 CND) - photo coming soon!

Crawford Street Skincare can be found in a few local stores across Toronto, as well as their online store. This is just a salt scrub and the scent is very energizing; great for your morning shower to wake you up before the day. A good scrub for the price (you do get a fraction of the other two mentioned above), but I'm debating whether or not to repurchase this item since my skin tends to be more on the sensitive side and this may be too abrasive to my skin in the long run. Along with this, it is very messy; it's literally digging your hands in a pile of salt. I think this scrub will be perfect for dry skin if you mix some oils (e.g., olive oil) to the scrub before you apply it to your skin.

What are you using to scrub off this winter?

<3

Susan

Beauty: Sunday Face Masks

I've been getting into face masks the last several months...and I'm addicted. 

My skin is dry, sensitive, and acne-prone. It's like my skin comes as a full package of a little bit of everything. I love layering masks to meet my skin needs.

Before any face masks, I always exfoliate my skin. I've been using REN Jojoba Microbead Purifying Facial Polish. This scrub is so gentle for your face that it's perfect to use before layering face masks. Unfortunately, this mask is no longer sold by REN Skincare - I picked up this product over the summer at a local store in Toronto. 

My T-zone is extremely congested ALL THE TIME. I have yet to find a permanent solution to the problem, but I've recently got the REN Invisible Pore Detox Mask to help keep it under control. I haven't used it long enough to take my stand for this product, but REN claims that it's suppose to draw out impurities and reduce the appearance of your pores. Will definitely do an update blogpost for this mask. 

After, the heavy-duty mask, my skin needs to be re-hydrated. The Antipodes Aura Manuka Honey Mask was a love at first sight mask. I got this back in September and it's finally reaching the end. It's been loved and shared with my housemates as well. The manuka honey is very hydrating and provides a great deal of antioxidising effects for those stubborn blemishes. A perfect, relaxing all-around mask to have on. Plus, it smells amazing!

Once I'm done with the masks, I just apply toner, serum, and moisturizer! 

Do any of you have a Sunday Ritual to end your week? 

<3

Susan

Beauty: Products I Regret Buying #1

I used to be a compulsive buyer and this led to some massive product hauls that I ended up hating...so, when I looked through my sheleves this weekend, this is what I found!

HAIR

LUSH No Drought Dry Shampoo - This product is basically baby powder with a citrus scent for 10x the price. With my thick Asian hair, the dry shampoo doesn't seem to want to blend and makes my hair looking super ashy after using. It is extremely messy too. It was quite sad that they only had the big size when I got it two years ago, but I have seen that they made a mini bottle of this stuff. Still not something I'll repurchase - I guess having thick hair is a good thing for oiliness sometimes. 

Herbal Essences Tousle Me Softly Spray Gel - My best friend swore by this product for giving her the beachy-looking waves. Nope. This spray does nothing for me. As much as I scrunch, put my hair in a bun, etc. It just won't do the job that it advertises to do. The scent is a nice one, but the gel leaves my hair feeling gross, sticky, and dry afterwards. Unless I'm using it wrong, this product does nothing for me. 

SKINCARE

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash (Grapefruit) - I must admit, the scent is what really gets me about this product; it just smells so fresh and juicy. But, this product is ABRASIVE. When I had my crazy acne breakout this summer, I went to my drugstore and got recommended this product by another customer in the drugstore in the same aisle as me. It's super drying (completely not ideal for a dry skin and dehydrated person) and started irritating my skin. Red blotches and dry patches after two uses is not a good sign. Never will I repurchase this product or any similar product again! 

Kiehl's Rare Earth Pore Refining Toner - Kiehl's is the one brand that I absolutely hate. The only products that I found to like is their eye creams. But, anything else feels waxy or is too abrasive/strong for my skin. I walked into Kiehl's two years ago to get introduced to the company. The lady looked at my huge, clogged, enlarged nose pores and suggested that this product is perfect to help control that. It made my nose drier than ever and made the pores worse than I have ever seen before. Missed the 30-day return time frame and even my mother refuse to use it on her skin. It smells like alcohol too, another big no for dry skin. 

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cleanser - A cream-gel like cleanser that has a waxy consistency to it. Foams a lot, but doesn't seem to do a good job at cleaning my skin. I tried combining this with my old clarisonic and the product seems to just sit on top of your skin doing nothing. It was truly a disappointing cleanser. 

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream - I used to like this product...until I realized it was a thick waxy consistency (do you see the same theme that's happening with all the Kiehl's products I mentioned here...) that clogged my pores. It felt like my skin couldn't breath and comparing it to my other lotions and potions, this is definitely one of the worse "high-end" facial cream I tried. 

MAKEUP

Benefit Scene Queen Palette/Set - I love Benefit, but this overpriced palette was definitely not worth the splurge. It has four eyeshadows that are very shimmery and very chalky; not a very blendable eyeshadow. The eyeliner that came with the set was very hard to apply, not creamy at all. It also came with a blush, brushes, and a very shimmery lip-gloss. A palette that is just sitting in my drawers. It's too bulky to travel with it anyways. I actually really wished I liked this palette since Benefit has really nice products.

Mac Concealors - Very cakey, both the pot and tube. Hard to blend into skin, especially if you tend not to wear heavy foundation along with this. Very heavy-duty, so when it comes to removing, it's not fun. I'm pretty sure it's water-resistant as well. 

balmShell Tinted Moisturizer - One word to describe this: ORANGE. 

This my first products I regret buying post! All these purchases were made 2-3 years ago and if you follow my blog, you know I'm your everyday plain jane now. Makeup is rare and I go for a more natural skincare approach. So, these products are heading to the trash. 

What are some of your products that you regret buying? Share in the comments below - I'll love to hear your thoughts!

<3

Susan 

Beauty: THE BLOGGER/VLOGGER MADE ME DO IT TAG

When I read this tag on Brittany's blog (Life, Set Sail), it made me realize that probably a good amount of my purchases were from other's recommendations and raves. I was an avid YouTube junkie a few years back, which really got me into my beauty obsession in my old high school days and I slowly merged into blogging...since it's easier to sneak reading during my lectures.

Who are you most influential bloggers/vloggers? Who are the ones you really rely on for reviews and swatches?

Christine from Temptalia is one of the most extensive and informative bloggers I know. Her blog has almost everything and anything you want and need to know for the beauty sphere - from foundation matrix to swatches to product reviews and some big giveaways, it's my go-to blog for high quality content.

Do you buy a product solely as a result from one review from your favourite bloggers, or do you look for more reviews from others?

Usually I don't. Even for my favourite bloggers/vloggers, I will do another round of research to get different opinions before putting the item in my cart!

What is your most favourite item that you have ever brought as a consequence of blogs?

I've been a huge skincare junkie the last year and nothing will beat my love for REN Skincare. It's not as hyped on Youtube, but it's slowly gaining huge recognition lately on blogs. Definitely a great natural skincare line. As a result, REN products have slowly pushed all the other skincare products out of my washroom shelves!

What is your least favourite item that you have ever brought as a consequence of blogs?

NARS blush - Amour to be specific. There was a period of time, a couple of years ago, that NARS blush got a lot of hype on Youtube. It's either way too pigmented, which prevents me from getting that natural look I always achieve for, or it's too shimmery/glittery.

Name 5 products you have brought recently as a result of blogs?

Bobbi Brown have been recognized for a long time; but something about watching EssieButton's video on Bobbi Brown products really itched me to get my butt out of the house to get some.

-Bobbi Brown Stick Foundation
-Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer
-Bobbi Brown Corrector
-Bobbi Brown Sheer Powder

After looking into cream eyeshadows, I found many blogs loved them as an eyeshadow base. That led me to Sephora and I got one before the New Years.

-Benefit Creaseless Cream Shadow in Birthday Suit

Have you ever given into blogger hype? If so, which hype?

The NAKED fever. And my heart still pounds fast when I walk into Sephora and see the whole Urban Decay's NAKED palettes. I did give in and got the NAKED1 when it first came out, but gladly I resisted and had some self-control on the other palettes.

Have you ever avoided blogger hype? If so, which hype?

Not one that I can think of! I think it's because I read a variety of different blogs (beauty, food, personal, etc.) that I'm always reading something different each day that I didn't take notice of blogger trends!

Is everything you buy based on blogger  reviews or are there some items you buy without without checking a review?

I definitely have a problem with impulse buys the last year, so a good amount of products were picked up from my own curiosity.

I hope you all enjoy this little tag!

<3

Susan

Beauty: Hair Oils!

The new year started off cold in Canada and unlucky me, I didn't get snow boots again this year! I went to the mall a few days ago hoping to get a pair after Boxing Day, but little did I realize, every possible store will be sold out. Walking to campus is not fun with my old UGGs as it just gets soaked the moment I step out the door and that's pretty unfortunate I'm stuck like this for probably the next 2 weeks.

On another note, the weather has not only soaked and freeze my feet, but it really taken a toll for the rest of my body as well. In particular, my hair hates this weather. Naturally, I have very coarse Asian straight hair. And of course, along with that, I shed like crazy and you can see it all over my bathroom floor. I tend to opt out of blow drying my hair and the use of other hot tools is a rarity for me as well. Yet, my hair loves to frizz and shoot out those small "fly-aways" all across my hairline. Avoiding the use of hairspray, I try to use hair oils instead to nourish my hair along with taming (as much as possible) fly-aways and frizz. 

The first time I was ever introduce to hair oils was over the summer when my hair salon have just got Moroccan Oil. My hair stylist was raving about it the whole time and of course, I gave in and brought a bottle myself. And since then, I was in love. 

The Moroccan Oil Treatment ($43CDN for 100mL) comes in a glass bottle with a pump. I absolutely love the scent of this oil - it has a very sweet, vanilla like scent. It's quite thick in consistency and has a light amber brown colour to it. The thick consistency may be difficult for some people to evenly distribute through their hair, so you have to make sure you spread it all over your hands, spread it through your hair with a light hand to avoid concentrating all the oil in one spot, and then comb it throughly to evenly distribute it throughout your hair. I know people with fine hair tend to only focus the oils on their bottom half of their hair, but with thick hair, I find I can apply it anywhere on my head and it won't be a grease ball (I guess that's a +1 for thick hair!). I really like Morrocanoil and will continue to repurchase it over and over again, but it doesn't tame my frizzes as well; it just softens my hair and makes it smell good. Plus, it's providing the nutrients my hair is lacking!

I went into Trade Secrets to get a new bottle of this liquid gold since my last bottle came flying off the shelf and shattered all over my bathroom floor (a story I do not want to get into, it was quite a sad moment). As I was checking out, I noticed they were selling these small travel packs of Macadamia Natural Oil products for $4.99CDN - it includes a packet of the Deep Repair Masque, a packet of their Rejuvenating Shampoo, and a mini bottle of their Healing Oil Treatment. This brand has been compared as a cheaper dupe to Moroccan Oil and I have tried their Deep Repair Masque and LOVED IT. So, of course, I couldn't resist but to pick the travel pack up.

I have used the Healing Oil Treatment a few times and absolutely HATE the smell of it. Others have described it as a Sandalwood type of scent, but I think it just smells like medical ointment. It's an absolute strong smell to begin with and I must admit, it really turn the product off for me. I might have been misled a bit, because the Deep Repair Masque does not smell as strong as this and I really don't mind the smell of the masque. As I went with my day, I still noticed the smell...but, my hair was SUPER soft and semi-smooth. The consistency is much be liquidly, if you compare it to the Moroccan Oil treatment. However, I find it easier to apply evenly throughout my hair and it absorbs a lot quicker. 

I really liked the outcome of the Macadamia Oil, but the smell is something I'm not willing to invest in. I think Moroccan Oil wins me over and I would pay that extra few dollars for it any day!

Do any of you use oils in your hair? Let me know in the comments below!

<3

Susan

Beauty: Revamping my stash with Bobbi Brown

Back in the day...

I loved trying new products as I tried to figure out what I liked. As the young self-conscious Susan, I did have a phase where I had my morning routine before I go on with the rest of my day. 

But, those days are now gone - I've come to accept the no-makeup approach everyday. This certainly backfired on me as I stared at my makeup stash in disgust the other day. There were just so many products that I only touched once and products that I haven't looked at again for probably a year or even years. And..at this point, the makeup is definitely not going to be touched.

Came to the conclusion that I really need to reduced the size of my stash for someone who doesn't e"ven use it on a consistent basis. Ended up clearing out a good handful of products (especially my beloved NARS Sheer Glow foundation that went bad...in other words, "gloopy" and thick). And of course, I found that I should just revamp my stash with products that I'll only use when I do use makeup.

To begin this process of finding my makeup-go-tos, I really wanted to try Bobbi Brown's products. I heard quite a lot of rave about this makeup line and Bobbi, herself, is a very strong women character in this industry. A women who supports a girl's natural beauty and always reminds females that they are beautiful without makeup. While, makeup is just used to express yourself. This is exactly what I believe in, so I really geared myself towards the Bobbi Brown booth at the department store. 

Bobbi Brown Foundation Stick - 4 Natural ($50 CND/$42 US)

The hardest thing about foundation is finding your shade. It was actually really confusing when I went to the Bobbi Brown booth the first time and was actually matched to 4.5 (Warm Natural). When I went back 2 weeks later, they matched me to 4 and after a long while of deciding, I settled with 4. It is the winter and I'll probably lighten up from the summer tan that I got. But, the best part of this foundation is the flexibility and convenience. Similar to many, the idea of stick foundation usually ends up being very cake and thick. But, this is different - you can apply it lightly and it blends into your skin flawlessly or you can layer it for a full coverage and it will not cake up. This seriously is heaven in a stick.

Bobbi Brown Sheer Finish Pressed Powder - Sunny Beige ($43 CND/$36 US)

I really don't have anything special to say about this powder other than it's sheer enough to use on most skin types. No colour payoff, it's just for the purpose of setting your foundation to last longer than it would have without it. 

Bobbi Brown Corrector ($30 CND/$23 US) and Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer ($30 CND/$23 US)

A great combination - you moisturize under your eye with your favourite eye cream , apply the corrector with a concealer brush focusing on the inner corners of your eye, and you overlap it with some concealer to blend into your skin tone. It is recommended that you use the sheer powder to set it as well. 

Excited that I've got some new set products for my face base. Even if I won't be using it often, it's nice to know that I have limit to a smaller make-up stash. Plus, it'll make my decision a lot easier to decide what to use.

I hope you all enjoy this new makeup haul.

<3

Susan

Beauty: Fall Skincare Routine

I FINALLY have the lowdown of my skincare regime. Bumpy, literally, months for my face and tons of problems, but it's slowly calming down. I am still breaking out due to other factors, but my skin is DRY-SKIN no more...I hope. 

Costed me an arm and a leg, plus tons of research, time, help, and trials - I am finally happy with what I am doing now. 

A majority of the help goes to the awesome aestheticians at Pure + Simple Spa - who are loaded with information and guidance! I have completely hopped on the boat for natural skincare...and it feels AMAZING to know that I'm doing some good to myself daily. 

So, sit down and read on...this will be a long one!

REN Rosa Centifolia Cleansing Gel ($34 CDN) & REN Rosa Centifolia Foaming Cleanser ($26 CDN)

I absolutely LOVED the cleansing gel, but they stopped selling it at Sephora. So, pretty much, when I ran out...I got desperate and settled with the Foaming Cleanser. But, lucky me, I went into a boutique and they were selling REN products - I was able to be reunited with the cleansing gel! Since I got both, I'm using both - they are made with more or less the same ingredients, so it won't make my skin react to it dramatically as I hop around the two. I leave the foaming cleanser at my boyfriend's house, so I don't have to carry around my huge face ritual every time I spend the weekend there.

I tend to apply the face wash around my dry face first and then slowly incorporate a little water before I wash it completely off. 

Holistic Vanity Healing Immortelle Skin Tonic ($26 CDN)

You may have read an old post from me about toners. I only incorporated a toner into my skincare routine less than a year ago and now, I love it! This toner is great, because it's all natural (of course!) and it does not contain any alcohol which would dry out my skin. The smell will be a hit and miss for everyone, but I love the smell of this...I must say, it's a really relaxing type of smell or something. I use 2-3 pumps each time, rub it all over my hand, and then I press it in around my face. 

Pure + Simple Hydrating Serum ($44.95 CDN)

This have recently been incorporated into my skincare routine the last month. But, I really see a difference in hydration with my skin from using this. One pump is more than enough for my skin and it helps reduce the tightness feel that I used to have with my dry skin.  

Martina Gebhardt Black Mud Facial Lotion ($54.95 CDN) + Jojoba Oil 

My skin is dehydrated with few breakouts happening here and there - but, when I breakout, they are huge ones. This lotion is perfect in balancing you out - it gives you an adequate amount of hydration, while helping to clear out the acne. This was the perfect moisturizer that I needed over the summer, but when fall started to settle in, I needed more hydration. Adding a drop of jojoba oil and one pump of this lotion together is a miracle worker on my skin. It makes my skin super soft and I couldn't ask for anything better than this. 

Origins GinZing Eye Cream ($37.50 CDN)

I'm still on the hunt for a new eye cream. Lately, from PMS-ing and stress, my under eye area have been extremely puffy and dark. This eye cream doesn't take it away, but it does help in brightening up the area just a tad bit. Since you don't need a lot, I can see this tiny tub lasting me quite sometime. I only use this in the morning. 

So, with tons of research for a hydrating eye cream for the night - I have my eyes on the Origins EyeDoctor, Just Pure Hydrating Eye Cream, or Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment with Avocado. 

So, this is it! I really have a love for skincare and believe makeup won't do anything if you don't have a proper base for it. Absolutely believe it is worth investing in a good and natural skincare routine - people do tend to forget that your skin is the largest organ and what you put on it gets absorbed into your body. 

Very happy with this routine and as much as I hope I don't have to change routines again, new products have come in and out as I have a serious addiction of trying new things.

I hope y'all all enjoy this lengthy post!

-Susan

P.S. Tell me what your skincare routine is! Share in the comments below or e-mail them to me!

Beauty: What I use Jojoba Oil for

A few years ago, I went to visit my cousin down in the sunny California. Been over 10 years since we seen each other and it was crazy to find out how similar we were. It must be in the family genes! 

She was a huge fan of jojoba oil and I was pretty confused with why someone would ever rub any type of oil all over their face. But, after her explanation and my own research, I picked up a bottle myself last winter and I'm happy I did. 

A little bottle can last a very long time. Completely multipurpose - it's definitely worth giving it a try.

I wanted to share with y'all what I usually use jojoba oil for!

1. Eyelashes - I probably cry every time an eyelash falls off my eye lids. Already, I have short, stubby, and sparse eyelashes. The jojoba is great at moisturizing them and help reduce the number of fallouts. 

2. Face - As a dry skin girl, sometimes your lotion and cream is just not enough. Adding a drop or two of jojoba oil with a pump of my lotion daily/nightly has given me the perfect balance for my skin. 

3. Lips - When I make a DIY lip scrub (let me know if any of you are interested in a post about this), I always have the need to add jojoba oil for extra moisture. Again, a drop or two is more than enough for your lips! 

4. Hair - This is something new that I've recently heard of. Putting jojoba oil on the ends of my hair will help tame the split ends. My hair is one of the most messiest and untameable hair possible - and these little things will help in the long run!

As of right now, I'm using 100% Pure Jojoba Oil by Desert Essence. It was easily found in my local organic store. I have my eyes on two other brands to try in the future - Aura Cacia Certified Organic Jojoba Skin Care Oil and Pure+Simple Jojoba Oil.

Jojoba oil has been a life saver in my life. 

-Susan

Beauty: Nubar Charmeuse

Nubar is one of those brands that feel like I'm using a luxury item, when it's actually really isn't. But, the quality that the polish delivers definitely stands out from all the other brands that I've been using the past few years. 

Nubar isn't really that easy to find in Canada. I usually find it in smaller nail salon/stores and online. It's a tad pricer than other popular high end brands, such as Essie and OPI - but, what really sets Nubar apart is that it has the free three (free from formaldehyde, phthalate, and toluene); along with this, they are a vegan brand. 

The consistency is very rich and thick. The brush is quite dense. And combine the two, you get perfect application. 

Charmeuse is a deep nude pink colour. It's a colour that can probably suit many skin types. I'm so happy that I was given this colour as a gift - otherwise, I wouldn't have pick it up myself (it's a bad habit that blues and greens attract me)and fell in love with the colour, consistency, and the brand.

My nails for this week and I'll definitely paint it this colour again soon (perfect for the fall season!!!)

-Susan

P.S. As always, I'm just a normal girl who is TERRIBLE at painting her nails. But, they'll be off the sides in 24 hours...I hope...

Beauty: Matte...changing it up for the first time!

I'm a huge fan of glossy and shiny looking nails...I mean, who isn't a fan of that?

A few years ago, I got the Essie Matte About You Top Coat as a gift for my birthday. In all honesty, I didn't really get into the whole matte phase that happened at that time and never used the top coat myself. 

I painted my nails with SpaRitual Emerald City and it looked so good. It was a bright turquoise colour that was perfect for the summer. 

All that chipping and indents! I'm so disappointed in the matte top coat...

Then, everything just changed...once I decided to use the matte top coat, I was pretty disappointed in my choice. It actually looks fine and my friends really liked the effect - but, it wasn't for me. The matte top coat toned down the colour drastically and it also made it prone to chipping. Already, I feel like I have to re-do my nails...and it has only been 2 days since I did them.

I'll definitely re-paint them again soon with Emerald City for all of you to see the true colour.

Until then...this is what I have for all of you!

-Susan

Beauty: foundation for a new skincare regime?

Lately, my skin just sucks. 

I still can't put a finger to the reason behind my sudden skin explosion. I rarely had any problems before as small blemishes that surface never really bothered me, since I knew they would come and go as they wished to. Just this summer, my skin became overly congested, especially in the T-Zone area. Along with that, it's very dry with tons of clogged sebum/pores. On top of that, my acne decided to flare out targeting my cheek area, forehead, and nose. 

I do know that my skin is largely depended on my diet and genetics. But, I figured that my non-stable skin care routines probably contributed to this problem as well. I took a lot of time to research and carefully considered forming a new skincare routine for myself. Right at the beginning of my new search, I knew I wanted to settle for a natural skincare line. We tend to forget that our skin is our largest organ and what we put on it gets absorbed into our bodies. After an intense search,I've settled with REN Skincare (along with a one other product).

Rosa Centifolia Cleansing Gel (REN)

Healing Immortelle Skin Tonic (Holistic Vanity) 

Vita-Mineral Day Cream (REN)

When I inquired REN Skincare about my skin type to match me with their skin line, the customer relation was friendly enough to send me some small samples. Along with this, I also brought the Six of the Best set. With all these small sample sized products, it is nice to try more of their products out before I fully commit to their full sized products. Below is the list of products that I received or brought that have been incorporated into my new skincare routine:

Omega 3 Overnight Lipid Renewal Serum (REN)

Frankincense Revitalising Night Cream (REN)

Active 7 Radiant Eye Gel (REN)

Micro Polish Scrub (REN)

Jojoba Microbean Purifying Facial Polish (REN)

Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask (REN)

The products are one thing, while the commitment to stick to the routine is another. So far, I've been doing pretty well. 

I'll definitely give you guys an updated post in probably a month's time when my skin fully gets used to the products and to update you whether or not this skincare routine worked, as well as, which of the smaller sized items I actually purchased in full size. 

Until then, I have my fingers crossed for my skin to hopefully regulate itself soon.

-Susan

Beauty: the end of Murad Hydrating Toner

Toner was a beauty neglect of mine. I never took the time to understand how toner can be such an important part of your skincare regime. I'm probably the worse at explaining concepts, but in one general statement: toners are in place to help balance your skin after cleansing. 

The first ever toner I used was actually the Clinique one from their 3-Step System - which, left me a bitter thought towards toner as it dried up my skin. And after that experience, I pushed toners aside for the next 4 years. After reading about toners on many blogs, I decided to give it another chance. That's when I found myself standing in the skincare section in Sephora unsure of which one to pick up back in March this year. At the time, the chilly weather really hit my skin and dryness was my main concern. The sephora lady suggested me to try Murad Hydrating Toner ($24 CND).

Before I get into my review of this product, Murad's website makes a few claims for this toner:

"Rehydrates skin and neutralizes surface impurities"

"Restores normal pH balance"

"Softens and soothes skin"

"Witch hazel to tighten pores. Chamomile and Cucumber Extract soothe irritation and soften skin"

This bottle comes in a simple plastic spritzer bottle. Nothing fancy. The toner is a light peachy colour - sorry, I didn't take a photo of the toner itself before I used the whole product up. But, the scent of this toner is probably one of my favourite scents ever in a skincare product. It must be the chamomile and cucumber extract that is bringing the nice smell out when you spray it - but, it also has more of a fruity scent. I really can't put my finger to what it exactly smells like. 

At first, the Sephora lady told me to spray it all over my face and then let it sit for a minute before applying my moisturizer. I was actually not a big fan of this method. Instead, I started pouring the product onto a cotton pad and padding it around my face for a more even application. 

Will I repurchase this product again? I don't think so. I didn't find this product beneficial for my skin. Maybe my skin was too dehydrated for this, but right after I pat the product onto my skin, it quickly absorbed away. Definitely wasn't giving me the hydration that I wished to be getting. 

The scent was nice enough to make me happy that I have at least tried this product. But, Murad products, brand as a whole, doesn't appeal to me and this is probably going to be the only product I try from them. 

Have any of you tried Murad products? How was your experience? Let me know in the comments below! 

-Susan

Beauty: Pure + Simple visit and skincare change!

Pure + Simple is a spa that was born in Toronto 13 years ago and has expanded since then. Through reading great reviews about the spa, I have been wanting to try this place for some time now. Oddly, my skin never had big concerns for the last few years, except for this summer when it decided to flare out on me. Breakout, breakouts, and more breakouts became very common the last three months. Severely congested and dry skin, with the emphasis in my T-zone area has not been fun. So, I found it was about time to give the place a visit.

Booking myself my first ever facial in my life - I really didn't know what to expect. But, to keep this blog from becoming a huge story about my facial, here is the lowdown of my whole experience (I tried my best to condense it):

• My aesthetician was very friendly and it made me comfortable right when I met her. Before starting the actual facial, she cleansed my skin and analyzed it. She was extremely knowledgable and explained about my face concerns throughout the whole facial. I learnt a lot about how to care for my skin and why my skin was acting the way it was. And best part, no awkward silences! 
• When you have your mask on, you get a massage.
• She explained what products she was using and why.
• Extractions did not hurt and she explained how the aestheticians at Pure + Simple will never extract something that isn't ready to come out. No purging skin afterwards!
• Definitely a facial that should be planned for a day or night that you are not planning to do anything afterwards. With the use of natural oils during massage (shoulders, neck, face, and sculpt), you'll definitely want to wash your hair afterwards. 
• Very nice decor and colour choice in the facial room. Very welcoming. 
• Never push about their products. Will most likely give you samples instead to try. My aesthetician gave me three samples after my facial. 

Overall, this experience was a pleasant one and will definitely come back to treat myself for more facials in the future!

On another hand, I've been running low on my face products and decided to seek out for a natural skin care regime. I came across REN Skincare and did my research - I finally came to order it on Sephora online. Didn't cross my mind at the time of ordering that it will take a minimum of 2 weeks just to get here...and my toner came to an end this morning (product review in the works!). Didn't know what to do, I've debated with just going to my drugstore and picking up a new skincare regime for a short period of time until I get my order or if I should just go to a Sephora and pick up a trial size skincare set in the meantime. After a whole morning of debating what to do, I remember that I really enjoyed the samples I received after my facial and that I should start my natural skincare regime now!

Made a detour to a pure + simple store today and I picked up two products - the pure + simple sensitive skin face wash and holistic vanity healing immortelle skin tonic. 

Really liked the samples, so hopefully I'll enjoy using these products in the meantime. I do know that the REN skincare line didn't have a toner - just the cleanser and lotion, so hopefully I'll really like the immortelle skin tonic to continue using it along with the REN products that I'll get in the mail soon.

I'll definitely do a skincare routine when I get everything and figure out what's best for my skin. 

If you guys would like a more proper review on the products mentioned above, let me know! 

Until then, my face is excited to be using these new products! 

-Susan

Beauty: Chinchilly by ESSIE

I had a phase where I brought way too many bottles of nail polish in a short amount of time. I can't even keep track of which colours I have or not...so, just like tea, I made a self-imposed ban for nail polish.

Except for Saturday...

I saw on the flyer for Shoppers Drug Mart that there was a one day sale on Essie nail polish for $7.99. I also got a coupon online for $3 off. So, it as kind of hard to pass off on $4.99 deal. I have no self-control on sales.

After deciding to break my self-imposed ban, the second challenge was to pick a colour. Stood in front of the Essie stand for probably 30 minutes trying to decide which one to get. As always, I'm drawn to blues and greens - but, I knew I had to expand my colour selection and try something new. That's when I settled on Chinchilly.

It's a grey nail polish, but with a mauve undertone. So, it's a nice light looking grey. I'm really happy I settled with this colour - however...it definitely doesn't scream summer along with it. A colour that will be perfect to fit with the fall and winter season. Can't wait for the fall season to come and it'll feel more fitting to wear this colour regularly!

AND hey - look at how clean my fingers look! Essie's brush is thin, which is a hit and miss for different people. Definitely a hit for me since I'm such a messy nail painter with regular brushes!

-Susan

Beauty: Russian Navy!

I was feeling a navy and I'm very sad to find that my favourite navy shade is MISSING. I've been a huge fan of Yoga-Ta Get This Blue by OPI. It was a beautiful blue that had a nice simmer to it. Looking through my nail colour selection, I settled with something similar.

Russian Navy by OPI is quite darker. It's a very dark navy nail polish that has purple simmer. With the first coat, you can see more of the navy tone. But, as you layer on more polish, you can begin to see the purple simmer. With flash on the photo you see above, you can see it looks more purple than navy. 

I still prefer OPI's Yoga-Ta Get This Blue over Russian Navy. I hope I find it again soon! 

These will be my nails for the week. The messy paint job would look nicer tomorrow when the sides get cleaned up. 

-Susan

Beauty: Nail of the Week

I must admit that I'm a terrible nail painter. But, I even amaze myself, that I still paint them myself on a weekly (or biweekly if I'm extremely lazy) basis. I had an interview this morning and was wearing a navy dress, so I figured why not do a light blue. I ended up choosing to paint my nails "No Room for the Blues" by OPI. 

This is evidence of my terrible nail painting skills! But, the colour is absolutely gorgeous for this summer season.

-Susan

Beauty: Save or Splurge?

I've seen a few beauty blogs that have taken their stand in this save or splurge debate...and now it's my turn.

Foundation - SPLURGE

Foundation is a very particular makeup product. When you go to a department store, you'll be able to use testers to find the perfect colour match and can even ask for a sample to test at home before fully committing to the product. Even though drugstore foundation is starting to offer some awesome foundations lately, I find investing in a solid foundation that will more or less perfectly match you is a better investment in the long run. Plus, complexion is the starting point for anything as it serves the base for your face. 

Concealer - SPLURGE

Similar to foundation, it's the colour match that matters. Also, department store usually has a better return policy - so, if the coverage, finish, lasting power, etc. wasn't the way you want it to be, you can exchange or return it to find your perfect match. 

Powder - SAVE or SPLURGE

It really depends on your skin type in my opinion. Speaking from a perspective of a dry skin girl myself, I never powder my face after I apply foundation; it just ends up making my face look extremely cakey. But, I know you combo and oily skin lovely faces rely on this product. Thus, powder is more of a personal thing. I find a higher end powder would have a longer last power and is more finely milled, making it less likely to give you a powdery look on after applying it. Plus, colour selection is then again, very important....unless you get translucent. 

Bronzer - SPLURGE

There's not that many variation with bronzers - they usually only come in a few different shades of brown(ish) and they do their job. I find it's best to splurge on one bronzer that looks natural on your skin tone and stick with it.

Blush - SAVE 

My biggest mistake I ever made in my beauty history. Blush comes in all different shades and finishes that you can change up. Splurging on multiple high end blushes may not be a good idea, since you won't be able to use them up. I have learnt my lesson - drugstore blushes has that variation for you to choose from and you can pick multiple ones up without breaking your wallet. 

Eyeshadow - SAVE

Eyeshadow is similar to blush that it's a beauty product that people tend to love to change up. Drugstore eyeshadow have definitely gotten better with their pigmentation lately. Plus, the variation in colour and brand gives you the freedom to test out what works best for you without draining your bank account. It's good to start at the drugstore to find the perfect colours that work for you.

Mascara - SAVE

It is usually advised to change your mascara every 3-6 months to avoid eye infection. Depending on your use, the small tube of black liquid is not worth it to splurge over $20 on one. The drugstore has some great ones that can do it's job. I highly recommend to give Covergirl Lash Blast a try! 

Eyeliner - SPLURGE

Eyeliner is one of those products that people hate when it smudges. It's best to invest in a higher end that is long-lasting to get you through the day!

Lipstick - SAVE

No matter how hard you try, you'll have to reapply lipstick throughout the day. Drugstore lipstick is cheap and they have a good range of colours and finishes. 

Lipliner - SAVE

Same as lipstick! 

Tools - SAVE AND SPLURGE

Tools is a wide category. There are some products that are worth the investment, while some that are not. Makeup brushes are definitely the tools that needs splurging on. They are not the cheapest, but investing in higher quality brushes will do you good in the long run; they will sled less, they will not bleed, they will be densely packed with hair, etc. On the other hand, makeup sponges are definitely a tool that you can save on. It's recommended not to use a sponge multiple times, making it pricey if you splurge on them and continue to re-purchase them.

Nail Polish - SAVE

This another one of my beauty mistakes. You change your nail colour often and it chips. Plus, a nail polish bottle can easily dry up.

Makeup Remover - SPLURGE

Even if you use it on a daily basis, a good makeup remover will not irritate your skin.


What is your take on the beauty save vs. splurge war? Let me know in the comments below!

-Susan