Review: The Face Shop Chia Seed Sebum Control Moisture Cream

Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a happy holiday with lots of love and lots of FOOOD! It's been such a busy time for me with all the celebrations and juggling crazy work hours. I'm really sorry I haven't posted for a while and this post was supposed to come up last week but I was very sick and drained of all life *sad face*. That aside I'm feeling much better now and back on track. My blog goal for 2015 is to do at least a post every two weeks but hopefully more :)

In this post I will be reviewing my most recent day moisturiser with a super long name from the FaceShop, the Chia Seed Sebum Control Moisture Gel. I don't usually purchase products without first  doing some research on them. On my way to pick up a replenishment of the Arsainte Ecotherapy Crystal Water Super Gel (Super Gel) also from The FaceShop this one caught my attention. Despite the long name it really screamed out at me. Chia seed? sounds good for you already. Sebum control? Yes please! And moisture? Take my money! For this review I will refer to this as the Chia Seed Gel since it is a gel rather than a cream and to make things easier. Excuse the bad photos as I have finished up the jar before taking photos and this was taken when I first bought it when the lighting was very bad. 

For evening use I prefer creams that do more than just hydrate but for the day time I'm always looking for something that will hydrate as well as keep my skin balanced throughout the day. The Chia Seed gel claims to do just that. So how well did it compare against a favourite of mine? Find out after the jump.

Review: YSL Rouge Pur Couture The Mats #210 Nude Accoustic

YSL's Rouge Pur Couture lipsticks are one of my favourite lipstick formulas of all time. I almost feel like they don't receive the attention they're worth as they aren't as pretty on the outside as the Rouge Voluptes. I purchased Rouge Pur Couture The Mats in #210 (Nude Accoustic) a couple of weeks back together with the ever so popular #52. 

Review: Laneige BB Cushion Pore Control

I mentioned back in June that I have been caught up on one of the latest beauty trends to hit Korea  -  cushions! In the last two years almost every Korean beauty brand has come up with some sort of cushion concept makeup, some offering many different ones to suit different needs. 

If you're not familiar with cushion compacts they are designed to be and easier and more convenient way to apply your base makeup. Perfect for a girl on the go. I can remember back when BB creams were the latest craze the idea was to pat and press on the product with your fingers and the puff in way mimics that action. 

My interest in cushions was sparked with IOPE Air Cushion XP which offered a more dewy finish. I really liked it but when I found out that Laneige was releasing the BB Cushion (Pore Control) I knew I had to pick it up knowing it's more ideal for oilier skin types or humid conditions.

Review: SK-II Facial Treatment Essence - Eye

I'm a big fan of SK-II and have tried many products they have to offer. This is the first eye cream I have tried from SK-II and I definitely had high hopes. It claims to reduce the appearance of dark circles and fine lines with a lightweight formula which is everything I'm looking for in an eye cream. 

Review: Lush Ro's Argan Body Conditioner

I hate to admit it but for a long time I was guilty of neglecting the skin on my body. I spend a heck of money on my face but when it came to my body I was only moisturising every now and then and that was it. Of course I cleansed with a ph balanced wash but didn't really incorporate scrubs as such into my routine.

Lately I've been obsessed with body products and have bought a bunch of different care products experimenting with different scrubs and lotions. Thank Frank (the scrub) for that! It really got me interested in taking care of the skin on my body. 

One product in particular has definitely changed my moisturising game. The main reason why I didn't use to moisturise everyday was because I was plain old LAZY! It was quite difficult for me to reach my back and really work any products in. Ro's Argan body conditioner had definitely made the process a whole lot easier. 

After reading so many rave reviews from other bloggers I decided to pick one up for myself.

Review: Chanel Perfection Lumiere Velvet

As promised, here is my review on Chanel's Perfection Lumiere Velvet (PLV) foundation. Sorry it's been long overdue but I've now finished up the bottle and I am still deciding whether I should repurchase it or not. I guess we'll find out together at the end of this review.

Cleansing Water Comparisons (Caudalie, Bioderma and Garnier)

Today, I have a trio of micellar cleansing waters I want to share my thoughts on with you. I'm no science expert so I'm not even going to attempt to explain how micellar technology works but Lab Muffin has a post that explains it very clearly with diagrams here if you're interested.

I'm a firm believer in double cleansing. I usually follow the cleansing water with a cleanser and my Clarisonic unless of course it's been a crazy day and I only have enough energy to remove my makeup. Find out which is my favourite after the jump!

Review: The Face Shop Hydro Gel Spray Pack - Face & Neck

The Face Shop's Hydro Gel Spray Pack is designed to be a one size fit all hydration mask for the face and neck. If you have ever used Laneige's Water Sleeping Pack, this mask reminds me of that, except it's more liquid and is sprayed on - more hygienic. 

I actually purchased this for the hubby as they were out of stock of his usual Neo Classic Homme sheet masks. Of course the mask junkie inside me had to give it a test run and I was quite pleased. 

How I use it?

After cleansing my face, applying toner and SK-II Facial Treatment Essence, I spray this directly onto my face about 6-8 times. I then gently pat it in, allowing the product sink in. I use this how I would use my Laneige Water Sleeping Pack. That is, whenever I need extra hydration but am too buggered and lazy to wait for a sheet mask to do its thing. 

Review

To be honest, I didn't expect much when I first tried this mask as its consistency was quite fluid and just a tad thicker than Avene's Thermal Spring Water spray. Until the next morning, my skin felt really hydrated and soft with no sticky residue. If you're looking for a basic hassle free hydration mask this is the one for you. 

Would I repurchase? 

Yes. But I think this bottle will last me for a very long time. 

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Review: GlamGlow Youthmud Tingleexfoliate Treatment

Wearing makeup daily can cause skin congestion over time, even if you properly remove it at the end of the day. My skin is mostly congested in my t-zone and the chin area. I've read so many great reviews of GlamGlow's facial mud masks that I had to try it for myself. I opted for the Youthmud as the sales assistant recommended I start with Youthmud and progress to the Supermud if needed.

I've always like the idea of mud masks and have tried at least a dozen different ones, from drugstore to high-end. I've found a few which I do like but haven't found "the one" until I discovered this little gem, which has quickly gained HG status in my beauty cabinet. 

It was like love at first sight. I wanted to rave about it from the first time I used but wanted to make sure I would give it a good use before reviewing. 

How I use it? 

I currently use this mask on a once weekly basis. My tip, follow the instructions carefully on this one. I use a spatula to loosen and mix the product before each use. I initially applied it to a clean face using my fingers but found that a brush did a better job. I leave it on for 10-15 minutes until the mask is dry and remove it using cool water, gently massaging in a circular motion.

Results

The first time I used this mask I was quite shocked at the results. My first reaction was OMG my pores look huge. Shortly I realized the mask did its job and the reason my pores were so visible was because all the gunk that was congested under my skin for all that time had washed away with the mask! With each use I could see an improvement in skin clarity and my pores are looking less visible. 

This mask did cause crazy tingling which was almost a burning sensation but it went away after a minute. It didn't bother me too much as I could feel and see it working. My skin wasn't irritated or left with any redness afterwards either. I will start using it twice weekly as recommended. I only started with once a week as I was scared it was too harsh to use too often but I am absolutely loving this mask and it hasn't caused any problems. 

Would I repurchase?

Yes. I would definitely repurchase this mask. I am now eager to try the Supermud version as well.

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Sheet Mask Favourites

I hate to admit it but I'm a face mask junkie, especially the sheet varieties. Over the years, I've tried loads of different masks from different brands that promise to do all different things for my skin. Today, I will share with you the ones I tend to reach for and repurchased multiple times. These are my top eight, including six facial masks and two eye masks.  

Above pictured (left to right): TonyMoly Intense Care Snail Hydro-gel Mask, SK-II Whitening Source Derm Revival Mask, My Beauty Diary Natto Mask & Apple Mask, TonyMoly Intense Care Snail Eye Mask, My Beauty Diary Dark Circles Intensive Care Eye Mask, Black Pearl Mask and Imperial Bird's Nest Mask.

        

SK-II Whitening Source Derm Revival Mask

This is my "special occassion" treat as it is the most expensive retailing at AUD160 for 6 pieces. I usually wait for Myer's beauty sales to splurge on these. These are perfect for when I know I have a special event on the next day. They also have little eye flaps which go over the eye lids so my eyes can also benefit making it a two in one treatment. I'd pop one of these one for 30 minutes and by the next day my skin is plumper, more even and radiant allowing for better makeup application. I also love the SK-II Facial Treatment Mask but these work better on my dark spots.

My Beauty Diary Masks

These are my go to face masks for every other day as they are reasonably affordable and easily accessible. I usually purchase mine in Chinatown or on websites like Sasa and YesStyle priced between AUD12-15 for 5/10 pieces. I usually use a sheet mask 2-3 times a week where I can, changing up different types depending on my skin situation at the time.

Natto Mask (Moisturizing and Tightening): I use this mask on days where I feel my skin is a little sensitive or on days where I only feel the need for basic nourishment.

Apple Mask (Pore Tightening, Brightening and Clarifying): For those troublesome times in the month, I use this mask to keep those blemishes at bay.

Black Pearl Mask (Optimal Whitening, Brightening and Moisturizing): One of the bestsellers in the range. It's perfect for when my skin is looking a bit dull and lifeless.

Imperial Bird's Nest Mask (Ultra Nourishing and Hydration): A new winter favourite. Whenever I feel my skin is dehydrated or when I get those annoying dry patches around my cheeks and chin these save me.

Dark Circles Intensive Care Eye Mask: These eye masks are great for dark circles and puffiness. Although the results are only temporary and last only a day or two.

TonyMoly Intense Care Snail Masks

Snail mucus?! I was initially a little squirmish at the thought but I gave it a try and loved it! Both of these have a unique texture. They are gel, almost jelly like rather than a cotton sheet that is more commonly seen. This makes them feel a little more delicate to work with but I find they form better on my face.

Hydro-gel Face Mask

The face masks are pricier than the My Beauty Diary ones but they are more intensive. They cost around AUD8 a piece but I stocked up in Hong Kong where they had a buy 5 get 1 offer which worked out to be around AUD5 a piece. I like to use these every now when I need a complete pickup. These just leave my skin feeling so nourished and I feel it helped with my overall complexion. 

Eye Mask

The eye masks can be purchased as a pair but I opted for the more economical jumbo jar of 15 pairs which costs around AUD30. I like these as they are hydrating and cooling on the eye area. I place a pair of these once a week and enjoy the soothing relaxation.  

What's your favourite face mask? I'm always looking for new things to try and would love to hear your recommendations :)

Review: Benefit The POREfessional Agent Zero Shine

I was immediately attracted to this product because of its packaging. How incredibly travel friendly! I must confess I'm a loose powder kind of girl but it is a nightmare to carry around. Agent Zero Shine is so cute and compact I have no problems at all taking it with me whenever I need to touch up.

How to use it?

The packaging allows for super easy application especially when you're out and about. The mouth of the bottle resembles that of baby powder, which makes it spill proof. Remove the cap, twist open the chamber, tap the appropriate amount of product into the lid and sweep! It is even equipped with a hidden brush in the base. The brush itself is really soft, especially for something that came together with a powder. No scratchy brush here and a brush is always more hygienic. It's super easy to use, I probably didn't even need a mirror.

Results

Agent Zero Shine claims to:

- Minimises shine: tick!

- Smooths the look of pores: tick!

It definitely delivers what it promises. It pairs well with multiple base products. Chanel's CC Cream, Giorgio Armani's Maestro Foundation and Skin79 BB Cream just to name a few. It eliminates shine and minimizes pore with ease.

I also tried using this product to set my base makeup to test out it how well it performs in the oil control department. I didn't see any mentions of oil control on the packaging but you would assume a product called Agent Zero Shine would keep oiliness at bay. I was a little disappointed. Don't get me wrong, it wasn't bad. The shine surfaced around the 6 hour mark in my oily t-zone. Compared with other setting powders I own, this one was not the standout. Tarte's Smooth Operator is still my HG. 

Would I repurchase?

Yes. I liked the packaging concept of the Agent Zero Shine it's definitely my favourite touch up companion so far. However, I still prefer other powders to set as I feel the oil control is better. If only it was refillable with any powder of choice.

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Review: Clarins Double Serum

The Clarins Double Serum promises to deliver intensive anti-ageing treatment with the power of two serums in one. The two serums containing hydric (water-soluble) and lipidic (oil-soluble) ingredients based on 20 different plants are kept in separate chambers and are combined once pumped onto the palm and mixed well. 

Clarins claims the use of this power serum can reactivate of our skin's five vital functions:

- Hydration

- Nutrition

- Oxygenation

- Protection

- Regeneration 

How I use it? 

The directions advised two pumps, day and night but I preferred one pump day and two at night when I feel my skin needs the extra nourishment whilst I sleep and recover. I pump the product directly into my palms and warm it up between my palms before I pat it onto my face, neck and decollete. I use it after my SK-II Facial Treatment Essence and follow with my moisturiser. My current favourite moisturiser is the Clarins HydraQuench Cream-Gel.

Results

This serum is a surprise favourite of mine. One of my close friends tried it and loved it but she had normal to dry skin. I didn't think it would've been suitable for my combination skin due to its oily texture but it did and it didn't make my t-zone more oily. I can honestly say that this is the first serum I finished completely without feeling the need to try another one in between because I saw an improvement in my skin overall in a short period of time.

The outer box suggests the serum will:

- Firm and reduce the look of fine lines: As I am only in my early twenties, I can't speak much of fine lines and wrinkles but I did see an improvement in some lines I had on my neck and my skin felt overall more firm and supple.

- Restore radiance and even out complexion: This I definitely saw within 2 weeks of use. My skin had that glow, redness was at bay and some darker areas around my chin seemed to lighten.

- Make pores less visible: My pores do seem slightly less visible but as I do have enlarged pores in my t-zone particularly on my nose. It will take longer use to see a better difference or perhaps a miracle product to make them invisible.

Overall, my skin feels healthier, firmer and more balanced with the use of the Double Serum. The product absorbs very quickly and does not feel heavy or sticky as I had thought. It wears well under my makeup and gives me a little bit of a radiant glow. By far one of the best serums I've tried as it delivered results fast.

Would I repurchase?

Definitely yes! In fact, I already picked up a duo pack as backup at the airport on the way back from my recent holiday. 

Love, Like, Dislike or Dump? Love!