Review: Tatcha Pure One Step Camillia Cleansing Oil

I used to be a fan of cleansing oils but have forgotten all about them as time passed by and new things have crossed my path. Tatcha's Pure One Step Cleansing Oil has really reignited my love for cleansing oils. I discovered Tatcha after stumbling across a Youtube video of the founder Victoria Tsai talking about her vision and purpose for Tatcha and was immediately intrigued (more like mesmerised). I did go a little bit crazy and purchased quite a lot of products considering I've never really heard of the brand before. If you are interested to see what I got in that haul click here. To find out my thoughts on the cleansing oil read more after the jump.

How I use it?

I know the name suggests that it is a one-step cleanser but I use it to remove my makeup at the end of each day and finish by going in with another cleanser (just to be sure all that daily gunk is gone!). If you however wear little to no makeup on a daily basis then this alone is enough. I especially wear quite a bit of eye makeup everyday and this product does a great job at removing all of it with ease. 

The Test

I don't really wear waterproof makeup so I thought I'd do a swatch test on the Urban Decay Cannonball Ultra Waterproof mascara and also two eye liners that I wear on a regular basis. 

You can see the serum-like consistency here. It's so thin that it just runs down my hand. 

Without any tugging or excessive rubbing the UD 24/7 Glide On Eye Pencil came off like a dream and the majority of the mascara was gone. I was quite surprised that when I did this test the Dollywink Gel Eyeliner didn't completely come off. I didn't really have trouble removing it from my eyelids but on the hand it seemed to stay. It may have been that I've drawn a really thick layer which I don't usually do.

 

Review

Unlike other oils I've tried the Tatcha cleansing oil is really easy to rinse off. Once you add a little water it becomes milky, melting away all your makeup and washes away within a few splashes. The consistency is really lightweight almost like a gel/serum and it has a gentle floral scent. With some other oils like the SK-II one (a previous love), I found myself working a little harder to remove any residue. Most importantly my skin is left in perfect balance where it didn't feel stripped and did not feel or became more oily. I also really appreciate the pump packaging which is equally convenient and as it is luxurious. 

I also purchased a travel set which had a travel size version of the cleansing oil (find it here). It was perfect for my recent travels to the US and the best part is that it's refillable. 

Would I repurchase it?

Overall, I really love this cleansing oil and would likely purchase it again. However I just purchased the Boscia Makeup-Breakup Cool Cleansing Oil which is next in line for me to try after I finish the Tatcha one. I'm really interested in how it would perform as it is considerably cheaper at $28US for the same 150ml size. I will have to get back to you on that one. And in case you're interetested I purchased mine directly from Tatcha.com for $48US if you're living in Australia. Otherwise I saw it in Sephora US the last time I was there.  Tatcha is not available at Sephora Australia yet. 

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 

Do you use cleansing oils to remove your makeup? If you do, which is your favourite? Let me know in the comments below. 

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.

Haul: Tatcha

If you follow me on Instagram/Twitter you might have already seen me post a photo of my Tatcha package which arrived today. I've been interested in the brand for quite some time now and I am so excited to try them. They recently had a family and friends sale which was the perfect opportunity for me to pick a few items I've been eyeing. I originally wanted the Kaiseki set which contains deluxe sample sizes of all the products Tatcha has to offer but they sold out so fast! *sad face* The beauty junkie inside me just wanted to try everything but I missed out so I went with what I originally wanted. Tatcha also offers complimentary international shipping for orders over $250US which explains why I did some major hauling (yes, I'm one of this people who would buy more just to avoid paying for shipping-bad habit!). 

What impressed me the most about Tatcha was the amount of care that has gone into the packaging which feels luxurious and elegant. Every item comes with its on leaflet which feels like a personal letter to the user. Read more on what I purchased and why after the jump!

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.

June Favourites

Hellooo again! It's now mid-July and time for me to post my favourites for the month of June. Better late than never, right? I missed out on May but most of the products I'll be mentioning I have been constantly reaching for through both months. Find out which products I've been loving after the jump!

April Favourites

Hello! Sorry I haven't posted in two weeks as I have been a feeling unwell but I'm back with my favourites for the month of April.

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. 

Love, Like, Dislike or Dump? Like

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.

Love, Like, Dislike or Dump? Love!

  

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: 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!

My Skin Story

As I started this post, I was going to review a skincare product that I have been absolutely loving lately but decided to hold that off for my next post. I will start by telling you a little about me, my skin story to be exact. Let's start with my teen years, age 12. The first year of high school, puberty hit me quite badly, my skin suffered. My skin broke out and was oily overall. Now I can tell you about my decade battling skin troubles but that'd be excessive. To cut the story short, I've tried so many products I've lost count. None seem to have worked nor made it any better. From drugstore to higher end brands, I've experimented with countless blemish fighting products. I even tried Proactiv which did more damage if anything. I gave up believing it is all hormonal and all I can do is wait.

The acne and oiliness stayed for most of my life until my early twenties, which was when I learnt the importance of a good skincare regime, a healthy healthier diet and most importantly drinking plenty of water. In my first few years of uni the breakouts began to clear. My skin was now combination, oily in the t-zone and normal to dry in the cheek area. While I can't speak for the troubles during my teen years, I discovered in the past year that the true cause of my oily t-zone was due to dehydration. My skin is also quite sensitive which means the wrong products would irritate it more, cause breakouts and redness.

I found recently that by switching out my usual oil control moisturiser for one that was gel based which also targeted hydration, my skin has become as close to normal than it has ever been. I'm now only slightly oily in the t-zone towards the end of the day where in the past I was usually a fry pan by midday. Now I only need to find a treatment for the years of acne scarring, hyper-pigmentation and enlarged pores. Which is probably the toughest ones to treat.

That's it guys a summary of my skin history. The important thing to remember is everyone's skin is different. What may work for me, may or may not work for you and vice versa. But if your skin is similar to mine - combination/sensitive, then hopefully my experiences will help you. I will share with you in the future the products I love which have worked for me. Stay tuned for makeup and skincare reviews soon to come!