Saving my Damaged Hair with Shu Uemura & Giveaway!

April 19, 2018April 18, 2018 littlebeautyloves1 Comment

It has been a long time coming but I finally cut my hair short! I’ve had long hair for so many years and as someone who is super low maintenance, I never went to a hairdresser in that time so my hair just got longer and more damaged.

I wanted to get my hair cut by someone who was good and @hairbysafiyaa (that’s her Instagram handle, you should see her work) was highly recommended to me. She does my sister’s hair as well as other people I know so I made the 1.5-hour drive to St. Catherines to get it done!

My hair was just above my lower back and a medium brown colour that I had boxed dyed multiple times. I decided to cut it to just below my shoulders and got a few sun-kissed highlights in it, I love it so much!

I wanted to ensure I kept my hair feeling and looking hydrated and smooth after my haircut and timing was perfect when I was offered the opportunity to try Shu Uemura Art of Hair! I was sent the Silk Bloom Restorative Shampoo, Conditioner and Treatment as well as other items.

Shu Uemura is a famous Japanese make-up artist who has been breaking the boundaries of beauty for over 50 years! His company was built on the basis of his philosophy that “beautiful make-up starts with beautiful skin.” They use naturally gentle ingredients, use the most advanced science in beauty, and encourage artistry and visual expression. This is also expressed in their Art of Haircare line.

In a Favourites From the Boxes post in November 2017, I said that the Shu Uemura Essence Absolute oil was the best item I had received from Topbox and I still believe that. Whether I air dry or heat style my hair it just leaves it shiny and hydrated, it’s also a good heat protectant. So, I’ve had a positive experience with these hair items and wanted to try more!Let’s start with shampoo. If you probably guessed, I love using anything that hydrates but deep cleans my scalp. I wash my hair only twice a week so I love when a shampoo rinses clean and doesn’t leave a residue. Before I got my hair cut, I started using the Shu Uemura Art of Hair products to help bring some life back to my hair so my cut would look extra good.The Silk Bloom Restorative Shampoo purifies the hair but also has enriched argan oil to restore the hair fibres while adding body. The formula is creamy and it has a slight lather. I really felt like this cleaned my hair and it felt very moisturized after I rinsed it out. I also really enjoy the smell of the shampoo. It doesn’t have a sweet smell like you would expect with argan oils, it’s more natural.The next step was to apply some of the Silk Bloom Restorative Conditioner. The conditioner also has argan oil to restore damaged hair. I could feel the moisturizing properties on my hands right away, it felt like I just put on hand cream. This is super moisturizing.Every other wash, I would apply the Silk Bloom Restorative Treatment after rinsing my hair of conditioner. If you have dry, damaged hair like I do, this product is amazing! It leaves my hair so soft and I swear it makes even my boxed hair colour look good.The formula is super thick and I like to massage a little handful into my hair and leave it on for 5-10 minutes while I shower. I’ve even used the residue from my hands and rubbed it on my legs and this acts as an in shower moisturizer! This product is amazing because it deeply nourishes my hair. I feel like it has reduced frizz in my hair. I’m hooked on this!

After I cut my hair, I wore it natural to work and so many people were complimenting me on it! My hair feels soft to the touch and really strong. I have been consistently using these products and I feel like it’s made a difference in how my hair looks and feels.Another item that I’ve been loving is the Straight Forward Time Saving Blow Dry Oil Spray! Oh my goodness, how I enjoy this whenever I want to blow dry my hair. This spray evenly coats my hair and makes styling it a breeze. I apply this in sections to my towel dry hair and then blow dry it. The oil protects against the heat of my styling tools. Since my hair is shorter it takes less time to style regardless but I think the oil helps leaves it shiny and I do think it helps shave some extra time. It smells like chamomile which I really enjoy.

I’ve really been enjoying my hair lately. One, being that it’s shorter and two, I feel like the products I’m using now are going to help protect it and keep it from damage. Overall, I think these have been really good for my hair!

Giveaway!

I wanted to share something from Shu Uemura with you! I received the Wonder-Worker Air Dry/Blow Dry Protector. This cream is perfect for on-the-go styling leaving hair treated and protected with an effortless look. If you’d like to win this item here’s what you need to do;

Follow my Blog 🙂
Like and comment on this post and leave your Instagram account so I can DM you if you win.

Open to Canadian Residents only (sorry if you’re not in Canada, I will have another giveaway soon). Contest Closing on Wednesday, April 25th, winner announced on Friday, April 27th.

What haircare items have you been enjoying lately? Have you tried anything from Shu Uemura?

Lots of Love,
Dal

Disclosure: PR Post. The items above were generously sent to me for reviewing purposes. All opinions expressed are honest and my own.

Favourites from the Boxes: February & March 2018

April 11, 2018April 11, 2018 littlebeautyloves8 Comments

It’s been difficult using items from my subscription boxes because I really want to use up my Project Pan items. There are still items that I have been testing and using lately so I wanted to share them here. I enjoy sharing the items I love in my boxes and doing the mini-reviews here because I think it’s useful if anyone was debating getting a subscription box.

There are also some items I get that I don’t enjoy. It’s not as often but I might start sharing the Unloves from the boxes every once in a while too.

RealHer Blush Kit
Received in BoxyCharm December 2017

When you first look at the pans you might think, oh boy some of those are bright, but they are a beautiful sheer wash of colour on the cheeks. I have been using the colours Fearless and Limitless the most in this palette and I think they are wonderful for my everyday makeup looks.

The formula is really smooth so it doesn’t patch up on my skin. Fearless looks very shimmery in the pan but it actually applies matte with just a subtle sheen that makes my cheeks look highlighted.

Limitless looks like a really bright coral but it actually just enhances my natural cheek colour and appears natural on the skin. I’m super impressed with both of these. Although I have not used Unstoppable yet, I will give it a try when I want a more bronzy blush.

Crown Pro Blush Brush
Received in BoxyCharm February 2018

I may have just received this brush but it immediately replaced my older angled blush brush. I use this all the time and I love that it’s dense at the base but fluffy at the top so application of blush is very sheer and easy to build up.

The brush is super soft and although I don’t love the thickness of the handle, it’s very light. I think it’s a very cute style with the all white and pink tips. This came in a trio and although I also enjoy the medium sized brush for concealer, this is my favourite of the three.

Professional Sebastian Shaper Plus Extra Hold Hairspray
Received in Topbox November 2017

I didn’t use too much hairspray before but now that I’ve cut my hair I like to applying it whenever I style my hair. I love this hairspray, and it’s not like anything I’ve used before. It holds my style all day but my hair still feels really soft to the touch and it actually makes it super shiny.

I wash my hair every few days and I like that it keeps my hair feeling good and not stiff at all. The nozzle is great because it disperses the product evenly and thiny through my hair. This was a small sample but I hope that it lasts me a while. I know I’m likely going to get this in a full size when it empties.

There you have it! Items I have been loving from my subscription boxes the last few months. Are there any items in your boxes you have been enjoying?

Lots of Love,
Dal

Project Pan: 18 for 2018 Update #1

April 9, 2018April 7, 2018 littlebeautyloves12 Comments

The first three months of the year are done and I’m ready to share an update on my Project Pan! I’ve been trying to use all the items as often as I can and I’ve found that it makes getting ready in the morning before work a lot easier. I keep all the items for the project pan in one makeup bag and that bag has become my go-to for putting together quick looks when I really don’t want to fuss with digging through my makeup collection.

I will break down the items that have had the heaviest usage to the lowest. Not everything is brand new so if you want to know what I am working with take a read of my original post here.

Most Used Items (5-7 days a week)

These items were ones that I either enjoyed before the project pan or they are items I need to complete a makeup look so they get the most usage.

Physicians Formula Super BB Cream. I have not hit pan but the product has gone down and the imprint that was originally stamped on has faded.
Was full, now 3/4 full

Smashbox Covershot in Golden Hour. I’ve been taking a lot of the colours and doing one or two colour sweeps over the eye for my everyday look. Pans that get the heaviest use are the three lightest shimmer shades in the palette.
Was full, now 3/4 full

Yves Rocher Youthful Glow Powder in 100 Teint tres Clair. I used this powder every single time I used the Becca under eye brightening corrector to help prevent creasing and because that product is super sticky. Although I use it a lot I’ve only been able to get as far has to remove the company logo imprinted on the product.
Was full, now full but the print is gone!

Shiseido Synchro Skin Lasting Liquid Foundation. I can feel this is getting empty! I hope that by the summer update, this will be done!
Was 1/2 full, now 1/4 full

Becca Under Eye Brightening Corrector. I use this every day but because I don’t need a lot it hasn’t really changed much. I’m finding that I don’t like this sticky formula so I know that after I’m completed the Project Pan I’m just going to toss this and never repurchase.
Was 3/4 full, now 2/3 full

Too Cool for School Dinoplatz Lip Balm in Spilled Wine. Another product I try to use often. I love this colour and formula so I tend to keep it in my purse for touch ups throughout the day.
Was 3/4 full, now 2/3 full

MAC Powder Blush in Fleur Power. I can kind of see this look like it’s getting some good use. The more I use this the more I fall in love with the colour and appreciate the formula. It looks so good on!
Was full, now 7/8 full

Medium Use Items (2-4 days a week)

These items were incorporated into my makeup routine as often as I could. Sometimes I would use them in place of the other items above.

Tarte Cosmetics Amazonian Clay in Exposed (deluxe sample) As much as I tried to use it I don’t see a difference in the pan. I don’t wear highlighter every day so this didn’t get used too much.
Was full, now full

Fresh Sugar Lip Polish (deluxe size) I used this whenever I was about to wear lipstick which isn’t often so this was barely used.
Was 3/4 full, now 2/3 full

NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in 611 Yogurt. I have started sharpening this to use up more product. Whenever I wasn’t wearing the Smashbox Covershot palette I would try to use this but I find that it creases really bad on me so I know I’m not repurchasing this after the Project Pan is over.
Was 3/4 full, now 3/4 full

Marc Jacobs Black Liner (deluxe size). I’m using this whenever I don’t do liquid eyeliner. I really don’t love this liner.
Was 1/2 full, now 1/3 full

Bite Beauty Multi-Stick in Almond (deluxe size) I use this for my lips and cheeks. It’s a really nice item.
Was full, now 3/4 full

Estee Lauder Pure Color Envy Lipstick in 220 Powerful (deluxe size). Probably the only lipstick in my Project pan that I wear most often. The colour really compliments the makeup looks I have been coming up with.
Was 1/2 full, now 1/2 full

Least Used Items (0-1 days a week)

These items have been the hardest for me to incorporate into my routine on a weekly basis. I might use these a few times a month.

CoverFX Custom Enhancer Drops in Moonlight (deluxe sample) I used this maybe 4 times. It’s super intense. I’m going to try to start adding it to my foundation for a dewy look.
Was full, now 7/8 full

Bite Beauty Matte Creme Lip Crayon in Glace. I used this maybe twice. It’s a bit too cool for me but I’m trying to make it work with certain makeup looks or with a gloss on top because it’s very matte.
Was full, now full

Colourpop Lippie Pencil in Aquarius. I do wear this under certain lipsticks and I like the formula, I just don’t wear enough lipstick.
Was 3/4 full, now 2/3 full

Teeez Cosmetics Material Girl Lipstick in Hyped Taupe. I love, love this colour. It’s my second most used lipstick but again I don’t wear them often enough.
Was full, now 7/8 full

Too Faced Melted Liquified Long Wear Lipstick in Melted Candy (deluxe size) I never wore this and I think it’s old.
Was 1/2 full, now 1/2 full

Thoughts

Clearly, I’m not a lipstick person. Most of my lippies are in the Least Used category. Part of why I wanted to do this Project Pan was to use them more so that’s my challenge for the next three months. Everything else I’m happy with my progress.

Are you doing a Project Pan? What is your progress been so far?

Lots of Love,
Dal

Review: Aveeno’s Positively Radiant Body Collection

April 2, 2018April 1, 2018 littlebeautyloves14 Comments

I can feel warmer weather on the horizon in Toronto! With that comes shorts and skirts and showing off my legs! I’ve been extremely diligent with my body care routine to keep my legs and body hydrated and even-toned so using products that help me achieve that is important. I’m really excited to share this review of Aveeno’s Positively Radiant Body Collection* on the blog today!

I’ve been a long time user of Aveeno and it all started with their oat body wash. When I first started shaving my legs, they would feel extremely dry and itchy and the only thing that I felt was gentle and moisturizing enough for them was that body wash. I later remember grabbing a body lotion from Aveeno and feeling like it improved the moisture on my skin.

Recently, Aveeno launched their new Positively Radiant Body Lotion, Exfoliating Body Wash and Dark Spot Corrector and I was able to test them out.

This collection has their ACTIVE NATURALS Total Soy Complex to correct tone. According to Aveeno, the body lotion and body work together to visibly transform the look of all 5 factors of radiance (tone, texture, dullness, blotchiness and brown spots). Using this collection reveals healthy, more visibly radiant skin and fades the look of dark spots and uneven skin tone. (Aveeno)

I used the Exfoliating Body Wash and Body Lotion every day for the last week and a half.

The Exfoliating Body Wash is pretty gentle although it has exfoliants. It helps to buff my skin without it feeling like scratching. This is soap-free, dye-free, hypoallergenic so I didn’t feel like it stripped my skin of its natural oils and I felt pretty moisturized after my shower. I know it’s good for me because even after I shower, I felt hydrated before even using the body lotion.

The Body Lotion is my favourite item in the collection. It’s creamy and thick but absorbed into my skin quickly. I knew the lotion was going to be good because I’ve tried Aveeno lotions before and loved them. It doesn’t have a greasy feeling which I absolutely love and it helped calm my skin those days I did shave my legs. The formula has natural light reflecting minerals to give off a radiant look.

It feels like my skin is slightly more radiant and is more even-toned. This will come in handy as the weather gets warmer and I start wearing more clothing that shows off my legs!

The Dark Spot Corrector will also come in handy closer to the summer months to help even out my skin tone on my legs. This corrector evens out the look of dark spots, discolouration and uneven skin tone. I have some discolouration on my legs (especially since I shave them in the summer) so I look forward to them looking even and radiant!

You can learn more about these products by heading to www.aveeno.ca

So who’s ready for warm weather in the city!? What products will you use to help prep your skin?

Lots of Love,
Dal

Disclosure: This post is powered by Brandbacker. The items above were sent to me for reviewing purposes.

Bye Bye Empties: March 2018

April 1, 2018 littlebeautyloves25 Comments

Happy Easter and April Fools!

March was a pretty great month! The weather is continually warming up and I had some fun things planned. I’m a bridesmaid for my best friend’s wedding and I started looking at some dresses. I’m really lucky that she’s given all her bridesmaids the ability to choose whatever dress they want. It was nice to hang out with everyone and I’ll keep you posted as the Wedding draws closer (it’ll be in October this year).

I also did something really drastic with my hair! I cut it! Whoot! It has been a few years since I’ve seen a hairdresser and I usually trim my hair on my own but I finally chopped it off! I was really tired of it!

Here are some of the items that I was able to empty this month;

Face Masks

The Face Shop MASK.LAB Anti-Aging Foil Face Mask. This foil mask came in my February Topbox. I’ve never tried a foil mask before so I was really interested in what made this different. I’ve included a photo of my tin man moment because I thought it was fun to share! The mask is a foil on the outside with a traditional sheet mask fused on the inside (to absorb the serum). The foil trapped the heat so my face felt warm. Nothing uncomfortable but worth mentioning. Also, the foil stopped any access product from dripping which I really loved. I would definitely purchase this again.

Biobelle Cosmetics Sheet Mask in #iwokeuplikethis. This was a 3 mask set in my June BoxyCharm. I think this is good sheet mask that left my skin feeling really nice. I don’t know if it made it more glowy but it did make makeup application afterwards really easy. I don’t know if they ship to Canada but it looks like they have other really good masks on the Biobelle website. I’d be interested in testing out more.

Skincare

Garnier SkinActive Makeup Removing Micellar Wipes. If you read my post on makeup removers you’ll know that I really love this product. The wipe itself is a decent thickness and it feels really soft on the skin. I don’t feel like I’m tugging at my face when I use this and it removes my makeup easily. I’ve actually got other makeup wipes to try, including one from Marcelle that I’m really loving but I’m likely going to repurchase this one again.

Laneige Water Sleeping Mask. I got this deluxe sample of this from Sephora. I got a good two weeks worth of product out of this so not bad at all! The mask was really light and hydrating and was also more gel-like. I liken it to Clinique’s moisture surge. I did like this but I would like some anti-ageing properties in my skincare so I’m not sure if I will repurchase it.

Lancome Energie De Vie the Smoothing and Plumbing Pearly Lotion. I did not care for this lotion. It didn’t hydrate or plump my skin. It had this weird slushy-like consistency. I won’t be repurchasing it.

GlamGlow Nude Glow Primer. I should have probably put this with my makeup empties but since it ended up in the photo with my skin care I’ll just talk about it here. I love this primer because it is illuminating. It has an interesting Flinestone Vitamins type of scent but it wasn’t anything unbearable. I loved wearing this under foundation and if I didn’t already have a Becca backlight primer open I would likely purchase a full size of this.

Benefit Instant Comeback Facial Serum. I’ve had this serum for a really long time and it has finally emptied! I really liked this because it felt like it instantly brightened my face and made my moisturizer glide on so much easier. I’ve since moved on to other serums but I might pick this up again soon.

Dr Brandt Skincare Xtend Your Youth Eye Cream. I got this little sample from Sephora and I used it about three times. As far as an eye cream goes it felt really light and creamy and was easy to spread under my eyes. According to the Sephora website, this is an antioxidant eye cream that protects, hydrates, and smooths the eye area. The ingredients claim to provide protection against free radicals and skin aggressors, all stuff I would love. The only thing it’s missing is some fine line reduction so I’ll have to pass on this.

Makeup

GrandeLash MD Lash Enhancing Serum. I suggest you read my 8-week review of this product here and then follow up three-month review here. In a nutshell, I love this and already have repurchased a second tube.

Lancer Dani Glowing Skin Perfector. I have really been into illuminating primers so I picked this sample up from Sephora. Dani Glowing Skin Perfector is an innovative, illuminating skin finisher and treatment that revitalizes, brightens, and perfects all skin tones in one step. (Sephora.ca) This is really nice but the price is a bit out of my budget at $120.00 CAD/1oz. I did pick up a second sample which I will enjoy but I would not purchase a full size of this.

Yves Rocher Pure Light Foundation. I really enjoy this foundation because it’s very light in consistency but provides a medium coverage. It also is a good shade match for my skin. I think when it comes to Yves Rocher products this is one of my favourite items (second only to their body washes). I’m on a mission to use up the foundations I have so I won’t be repurchasing this.

Benefit Roller Lash Mascara in Brown. I really enjoy this mascara. The curved wand is perfect for lifting my eyelashes. Like foundation, I’m trying to use up all the mascaras I have because I have quite a few. Once I do have a chance to, I will repurchase this one.

Body Care

Ombra Spa Aromatic Foam Bath with Eucalyptus. If you ever feel sick or congested, I highly recommend picking up this bubble bath because it fills your tub with nice bubbles and a punch of eucalyptus to help open up your airways. I got this one from Walmart and I’m probably going to pick up another one come next winter.

Being by Sanctuary Spa Salted Caramel & Macadamia Bubble Bath. This smelled so delicious I swear I could have eaten the bubbles! It makes my bathroom smell like a fudge shop! I picked up this bubble bath and a few body washes from BeautyBoutique to test out Being by Sanctuary products and I’m really loving this brand. The bubbles it creates are awesome too! I am repurchasing this.

Tom’s Long Lasting Deodorant in Refreshing Lemongrass. I hated this because the scent did not work with my body chemistry. I’m not repurchasing this.

The Body Shop Almond Hand and Nail Cream. This was great over the winter for my dry hands. I would repurchase this because I love the almond scent.

That’s all I emptied in March! I’m pretty happy I was able to use up some products that I’ve had for a while.

What have you used up for March?

Lots of Love,
Dal

Unboxing BoxyCharm, March 2018

March 27, 2018March 23, 2018 littlebeautyloves11 Comments

Price: $21.00 USD (+$5.00 shipping to Canada)
Number of items: 4-5 full-size items

Boxycharm is a monthly subscription box of full-size makeup, skincare and beauty tools. The theme for this month is “Bae Cation”. The theme is fun and I love the tropical print on the card. A lot of the makeup in this month box is bright and colourful and I think they tie well with the theme.

If you read my unboxing post last month, you’ll know that BoxyCharm experienced some issues getting the boxes into Canada and my shipment was delayed. I got my BoxyCharm in a reasonable time this month. I hope that the customs issue they encountered last month has been resolved.

Prices are in USD converted to CAD at the end.

PUR The Complexion Authority Eyeshadow Palette
MSRP: $36.00 USD

This palette was created as a collaboration between PUR and BoxyCharm and I think the colours are absolutely gorgeous! I swatched a few shades (see below) and they appear to be super pigmented and soft.

This is the second PUR palette I’ve received in a BoxyCharm. I never opened the other one (although I loved those colours too) because it was neutral so I thought it would make a perfect gift and was holding on to it. This one, however, I want to wear myself.

Butter London Double Decker Lashes Mascara
MSRP: $20.00 USD

This is supposedly going to give you 200% thicker lashes in just one coat and 314% increased lash curl! haha! I love that it’s 314%, how do they measure these things! This looks to be a standard brush style and I’m looking forward to trying it, but I have a few opened mascaras that I’m using up to start.

South Mane Beauty Under Eye Gels
MSRP: $10.00 USD

I like under eye masks because I find they are great for that awake look and are moisturizing the under eye area. I look forward to trying these masks out and sharing my thoughts. I also appreciate being sent the pack of three because I can then test them out consistently.

The Vintage Cosmetic Company Smokey Eye Makeup Brush Set
MSRP: $23.15 USD

Another product from the Vintage Cosmetic Company! I have a highlighter I received in my December Box that I’ve been enjoying so much so I’m glad that I’m slowly being introduced to this UK brand through BoxyCharm. I read on their website that they will launch in Canada in 2018! I sure hope that it is soon because I would love to try more. I love the vintage vibe.

The set is supposed to help you create a smokey eye look and I love that each brush is numbered with a cute reference to the Elvis song, Blue Suede Shoes, but with a shadow twist on it. It’s darn cute!

Pretty Vulgar Make Them Blush in Prim Vixen
MSRP: $26.00 USD

When I first opened this blush I was nervous that the pink was going to be super bright and way too pigmented. I’m pleasantly surprised that this is actually really light and buildable so it won’t look like a hot pink strip across my face when I wear it. I included a swatch below where I used my finger to really build up the colour so you could see it on camera but in person, it’s subtle.

I’m glad I decided to swatch it and not judge the colour as it appeared in the pan. One thing I’m not a fan of is how cheap the packaging feels. It’s like a kids makeup type of plastic and I really don’t like it. For something that sells at Sephora at the price point above I would have thought it would be a better plastic. Either way, the colour is amazing and I love it, just an observation.

Swatches

My Thoughts

I am happy with EVERYTHING in this box. Last month I had some hits and misses but this month is all hits! All the items would work really well together and I like that this goes with the theme of vacation because you could literally take everything in this box on vacation with you. Total value of the box; $115.15 USD ($148.51 CAD)

Did you get BoxyCharm this month? What did you think of your box? Get anything different than me?

Lots of Love,
Dal

Unboxing Topbox, March 2018

March 25, 2018March 23, 2018 littlebeautyloves8 Comments

Price: $12.00 CAD (plus tax, free shipping) 4 items.

Topbox is a Canadian monthly beauty subscription service. Each month you have the option of getting a surprise box or to swap it for a prive box where all the products are from one brand and you know what they are. This month I wished for the Rexall Prive Box and I got it!

All prices in Canadian Dollars

Wet n Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder in Blossom Glow
Full Size Price: $6.99 (5.4g), this is a full size item

I’ve seen these highlighters in store and hear a lot of good things about them. If I’m correct, these highlighters are intense. This is a pretty dusty rose colour that I think would be super flattering on. I didn’t want to swatch this because I do have a few other highlighters I’ve been using and didn’t want to have too many open at the same time. I also really love the stamped floral print on the highlighter itself. It’s such a nice detail.

La Roche-Posay Lipikar Lotion
Full Size Price: $25.00 (200 mL), Sample Price: $1.00 (15mL)

I’ve tried La Roche-Posay micellar water and moisturizer before and enjoyed them so I’m interested in trying this lotion. This sample is tiny so I would barely get one use out of it. Usually, Topbox only sends out 4 items and this prive box has 5 so I guess I won’t get too upset, but I think it would have been worthwhile to get a larger sample, especially for something designed for the body.

e.l.f. Cosmetics Intense Ink Eyeliner in Blackest Black
Full Size Price: $4.00 (2.5g), this is a full size item

When I first saw this jumbo eyeliner I was afraid the actual liner itself was giong to be thick. Luckily it comes to a pretty small point which I prefer when doing eyeliner. I have tried other items from e.l.f. but never their eyeliner so I’m excited to try the formula and see how it compares to other eyeliners I own.

SoftLips Hello Kitty CUBE in Pom Berry
Full Size Price: $5.99 (6.5g), this is a full size item

How cute is this!! The Hello Kitty print on the packaging is too adorable! It appears this is a clear balm and I’ve heard that SoftLips is pretty nourishing. This is meant to hydrate with shea butter, and has vitamin A, C & E to replenish the lips. I look forward to trying this out.

NYX Professional Makeup Liquid Suede Cream Lipstick in Tea & Cookies
Full Size Price: $10.00 (4mL), this is a full size item

The description of this reads that this is a waterproof lippie that dries matte. Although I didn’t swatch it here I looked up some images of this colour online and looks to be a super pretty pink. I think it’ll make a great spring shade.

BONUS! Kit Anti-Anging Mask

Did Topbox read my mind and know that I love anti-aging masks? haha! I guess so! This was an extra in my box and I’m really happy I received it.

My Thoughts

Since this was a Prive Box that I wished for, I’m happy that I received these items. They were things that I was interested in trying and I think getting them all in this box was super nice. Stand out products for me is the e.l.f. eyeliner and the Wet N’Wild hightlighter! Total Value of my box; $27.98. This is a pretty low-value box. I didn’t include the bonus mask but that might be $3.00 max. I think that might have been why it was added to the box as an extra.

Did you get Topbox this month? What did you think of your box?

Lots of Love,
Dal

Review Update: GrandeLASH™ MD Lash Enhancing Serum, One Tube Later

March 20, 2018March 19, 2018 littlebeautyloves10 Comments

I wanted to do an update on the results I’ve been experiencing since I started using the GrandeLash MD Lash Enhancing Serum.

Take a read at my original review where I talk about my first 8 weeks of using the product. In that post, I go in-depth on the application and other product details. The instructions said users would get the full results in 3 months, so here we are!

NOTE: Although I tried to be as consistent as possible there were some nights that I simply forgot to use this. I still see results but I think if I was more diligent with applying this every night they might have been better!

After finishing up a whole bottle this is what my lashes look like!

This after using the whole tube. If you want to see my week-by-week progress, please read my original review here.

I feel that my photos don’t do this justice. My lashes are not noticeable in the photos, but in person my they are longer and much more curled. They feel thicker to the touch as well.

I see the greatest difference when I’m wearing mascara because I notice how much longer the lashes have become. Since I wear mascara every day I notice that my lashes look a lot more dramatic compared to 3 months ago. I don’t feel like I have more lashes, but that the lashes I do have are longer, thicker and curlier.

I’ve included two sets of photos below from my palette review series posts because you can see the difference my lashes look like with mascara on.

Here’s a photo from my Review of Estee Lauder’s Color Envy Palette from November 2017

Here’s a photo of the same eye, in February when I did a review of the Too Faced Just Peachy Mattes Palette.

I think I used They’re Real mascara in the top photo and Monsieur Big in the bottom photos but those mascaras don’t apply too differently on my lashes. Look at how much furth my lash looks when you compare the length against my crease. I hope you can see that the lashes in the centre of my eye look longer. You can go through my Palette Collection Review Series posts in the tab above and you’ll notice that my lashes have changed from now to three + months ago.

I’ve been very happy with my lash the results and have already invested in a second tube. After the first three months, you can apply this every other or third day just to maintain the lash length. I wonder how my lashes will look long term. If I notice a bigger difference I will let you know!

Have there been any lash enhancing serums you’ve tried?

Lots of Love,
Dal

Beauty Boutique Haul: All For A Bonus Bag!

March 12, 2018March 11, 2018 littlebeautyloves14 Comments

A week ago I put in an order at BeautyBoutique.ca not because I needed anything but because THEY WERE OFFERING A BIG BAG OF SAMPLES and 20X the points!! I don’t know why I did any shopping at all but I did and I thought I’d share it!

Shiseido Benfiance Wrinkle Smoothing Starter Kit

Um, yes, I did need more Shiseido items. I have a nice little box where I have been collecting them so these will make a nice addition.

I really do love this cleanser and moisturizer set because… wrinkles! Also, I like that everything is meant to work together.

Urban Decay Vice Lipstick

I don’t know why I never tried these before, especially since there are a million colours and different finishes in this line! No, seriously there are so many colours! I was at the Beauty Boutique Store in Shoppers the other day and was swatching a whole bunch of them.

I was very drawn to the sheer formula so I picked out Sheer Liar and it’s such a pretty nude. I’ve already worn this a few times already and am really enjoying the formula. The only downside is that it’s not long lasting on the lips. I find I have to re-apply quite often.

NeoStrata Glycolic Renewal Smoothing Lotion

I wasn’t paying attention when I picked this up. I searched anti-ageing and added the first item that came up into my cart. I’ve used Neostrata before so I didn’t think much of it. This isn’t made for my skin type but if I use it as a spot treatment around my eyes, smile lines I should be OK. One thing to note is that this smells pretty bad so I don’t like wearing it all over my face. Since I’ve already bought it I’m going to use it.

You are supposed to use 5% Glycolic acids first to build up a tolerance and then use this product 1 to 2 times daily for a week and then 1 or 2 times a day as needed and tolerated afterwards. I’ve been using a few items from the L’Oreal Revitalift Bright Reveal line that has Glycolic acid in its formula so I’m sure this should be OK for me to use once a day on my skin.

Vichy Mineralizing Thermal Water

To make the minimum spend for the gift bag I added this facial mist to my bag. I love Vichy products and I love face mists so this was an easy item to add to my cart. The mist on this is super fine and it dries on my skin pretty quickly. I mean this is just water, but according to the description, it has 15 minerals to rebalance, strengthen and regenerate skin. I’ll use this before my skincare and as a makeup setting spray.

THE BONUS BAG!

I had to snag this pretty awesome bag full of 17 deluxe samples! Yes, I was drawn in by the sample bag but it’s not a bad value if you break down the cost of each per mL compared to their full-sized counterparts and there were items in here that I wanted to try before buying a full size. I won’t list everything I got but these are a few items I’m most excited to test;

Clarins Extra-Firming Day Cream
Strivectin Anti-Wrinkle Recode (it claims to reduce the look of deep wrinkles in 7 days, let’s see how it fairs on my fine lines!)
Clinique Pop lip colour and primer
Benefit POREfessional Pearl Primer (I like the original, I’m curious if I’ll like this)
St. Tropez Gradual Tan Plus (because it’s Spring!)

Other items in the bag are things that I know and love such as the Shiseido Ultimune, La Roche-Posay Micellar water and Bioderma’s cleanser. I also think they came in a pretty cute tote, one I will use.

Here are all the items I got! Have you ever been tempted to shop because it had a gift with purchase you just couldn’t resist?

Lots of Love,
Dal

Review: Using and Testing Makeup Removers

March 8, 2018March 7, 2018 littlebeautyloves9 Comments

The other day I was going through my bathroom cabinets and noticed that I have a few different makeup removers open. I began to realize that I use each one to remove a specific type of makeup be it everyday, heavy eye makeup, mascara etc.

I rotate through different makeup remover brands but the items themselves are always the same. I always have a micellar water, makeup remover/ cleanser wipe and makeup removing balm. I always follow up removing my makeup with a cleanser but these items really help to break down most, if not all, of the makeup on my face.

Makeup-Removing Wipes

Garnier Makeup Removing Micellar Wipes
$7.97 CAD, 25 Wipes

I use makeup removing wipes to remove my workday/everyday makeup because it tends to be a lot lighter. These wipes remove any light coverage foundation or bb creams, concealer, eye makeup pretty well. When I’m feeling really lazy, I can just use the wipe to clean my face and call it a day.

I rotate through so many makeup wipes but so far I like this one from Garnier the best! The cloth is so soft and it’s not crazy saturated with the product but enough that I feel like one cloth is good for my whole face. It even rivals the Simple makeup removing wipes or the Neutrogena wipes that I’ve used before because this is much better at removing makeup in my opinion. I also like that I don’t get left with a greasy/filmy feeling after using this that I sometimes experience with other makeup wipes.

Micellar Waters

Yves Rocher Sebo Vegetal Purifying Micellar Water 2 in 1
$29.00 CAD (390 mL) – Yves Rocher always has a promotion but this is the usual retail price

I like using micellar water similar to makeup removing/cleanser wipes. They are perfect for when I’m wearing a work day or everyday makeup look. What I like about micellar waters is that they are usually more gentle for use around my eyes so I like using them to remove eyeliner and mascara. I’ve noticed that the effectiveness of the micellar water improves when I use a good cotton pad. I find the Shiseido Facial Cotton really good with my micellar water because I don’t need to saturate them as much so a little product goes a long way. The cotton itself absorbs the product in such a way that it makes it easier to spread over my eyes. I’ve said this before but Shiseido really marries technology with beauty because you can tell that a lot of thought and innovation went into their products, or they are all wizards in those labs. Another more affordable option is the MUJI Cut Cotton, I actually prefer these peelable ones.

Although the Yves Rocher micellar water is designed for oily/combination skin, I still find it effective for my dry skin. It does a decent job of removing my makeup but unlike the ones from Bioderma or even the one I’ve tried from Vichy, it’s not the best at removing mascara. I have this in the large bottle so I will use it up but I don’t think I’d get this one again. I find with Yves Rocher a lot of their items are hit or miss for me so I either love and repurchase an item over and over or I get something and am super unimpressed by it, this one is of the latter.

Makeup-Removing Balms

Clinique Take the Day Off Cleansing Balm
$38.00 CAD (125 mL)

If I’m wearing a lot of makeup, say for an evening out or event I like using balms to remove it because they break down my mascara, eyeshadow, foundation so well without me needing to tug on my skin. I don’t use them every day only because they can feel oily and I don’t like that feeling on my skin all the time.

Clinique’s Take the Day Off is a balm that melts into an oil over the skin, removing with it even the toughest makeup. I love this guy because unlike a wipe or micellar water it works perfectly around the eyes. For me, mascara can be very tough to remove, especially because I prefer ones that are waterproof but balms just help the product slip off without damaging my lashes.

Another brand I want to include here is The Body Shop’s Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter because it works just as good and is $17.00 CAD (90 mL). Whenever this guy is on sale I pick it up but the one from Clinique is more affordable if you compare the cost per mL. This does the same thing and is very gentle on the skin.

Urban Decay Makeup Meltdown
$32.00 CAD (100 mL)

I remember there being so much hype when Urban Decays’ makeup remover line first launched but since then I hardly hear about them. I’ve included this in the makeup removing balm category because like the balms this is more of an oil makeup remover that works super well for heavy makeup removal. I LOVE THIS! You are supposed to spray this onto your hand or cotton pad before applying to the face but I’ve been lazy and sprayed it directly on my face.

Two sprays have removed my most stubborn makeup and are the best for removing glitter on me. I might rotate through different wipes, micellar waters or even balms, but this product is probably the only one I would repurchase the same of. I’m not sure how many makeups removing sprays there are out there but this is hands down the best.

These are the makeup removers I’ve been using and testing for the last while. What are some of your favourites or ones that you’ve been trying out? I’m always looking for something new.

Lots of Love,
Dal

littlebeautyloves

I like Makeup and I blog about it!

Author: littlebeautyloves

Saving my Damaged Hair with Shu Uemura & Giveaway!

Giveaway!

Disclosure: PR Post. The items above were generously sent to me for reviewing purposes. All opinions expressed are honest and my own.

Favourites from the Boxes: February & March 2018

Project Pan: 18 for 2018 Update #1

Most Used Items (5-7 days a week)

Medium Use Items (2-4 days a week)

Least Used Items (0-1 days a week)

Thoughts

Review: Aveeno’s Positively Radiant Body Collection

Disclosure: This post is powered by Brandbacker. The items above were sent to me for reviewing purposes.

Bye Bye Empties: March 2018

Happy Easter and April Fools!

Face Masks

Skincare

Makeup

Body Care

Unboxing BoxyCharm, March 2018

Prices are in USD converted to CAD at the end.

Unboxing Topbox, March 2018

All prices in Canadian Dollars

Review Update: GrandeLASH™ MD Lash Enhancing Serum, One Tube Later

Beauty Boutique Haul: All For A Bonus Bag!

Review: Using and Testing Makeup Removers

Makeup-Removing Wipes

Micellar Waters

Makeup-Removing Balms