MASK REVIEW

If you are looking to give yourself a pamper session, look no further! Every now and then I like to give my skin some extra care. There have been a ton of sheet masks on the market lately so I thought I would give it a go. Here are my thoughts on a few masks that I have tried out.

SEPHORA EYE MASKS

There are a variety of eye masks to choose from depending on what you would like to target. I picked up the Green Tea, Rose, and Lotus eye masks, which primarily focus on hydration. They are very soothing and definitely helped with the irritation and dryness I have been experiencing. They stick well to my skin with a good amount of serum left over to pat onto my skin once removed. I am quite pleased with these masks! These would be great to take while travelling, to give your under-eyes a fresh look after a long journey.

PURCHASE: $6 from Sephora

 

TOO COOL FOR SCHOOL: EGG CREAM SHEET MASK

This is a hypoallergenic mask infused with egg white and egg yolk extract to help hydrate and brighten your skin. The sheet formed well to my face and stayed put, making it easy to do other things while I had it on. I left it on for about 20 min, and it felt cool and refreshing the whole time. Once I removed it I found that it left a sticky residue on my skin, which was a bit tacky to the touch. I recommend applying this as the last step before heading to bed, that way you are less likely to touch your face. I was really surprised with how my face felt the next day. It was soft and allowed for a smooth makeup application. I would definitely purchase this again!

PURCHASE: $6 from Sephora

 

BOSCIA: SAKE BRIGHTENING HYDROGEL MASK

This is a gel mask that claims to firm, tighten, and brighten the skin. During application, the mask formed well to my face but I found myself having to fix the edges, as they would start to peel off. It had a cool, refreshing, and soothing feel for the entire 20 min I left it on. Once I removed it and applied my moisturizer, it left my skin feeling really smooth. I didn’t see any sort of firming or brightening effects. In my experience, it worked as more of a hydrating mask. What I liked most about this mask was the gel texture, which gave me that luxurious spa-like experience.

PURCHASE: $10 from Sephora

 

DR.JART+: WATER REPLENISHMENT COTTON SHEET MASK

This is a hypoallergenic mask that claims to sooth and leave the skin looking hydrated. The mask formed well to my face and stayed put. It had a cool tingly sensation, which was most likely caused by the infused witch hazel. I did find that because I had a few active pimples at the time, it left my skin feeling irritated. I also found that during the 20 min I had it on, it had a tightening effect whilst still providing a hydrating effect, which I quite enjoyed. Overall, I didn’t really find anything special about this product, but it is a nice simple mask for hydrating the face.

PURCHASE: $9 from Sephora

 

I love applying masks not only to give my skin some extra attention, but because it is very relaxing. You can definitely create your own spa experience at home. So grab a mask, some delicious tea, and unwind with your favourite shows!

 

 

 

 

SKINCARE ROUTINE: OILY, SENSITIVE, ACNE-PRONE SKIN

I have extremely oily, sensitive, and acne-prone skin. I have always had fairly oily skin but it wasn’t until I turned 22 that I noticed mild acne on my cheeks. It was painful and left dark scars on my skin. For someone who went from the occasional pimple to acne, it was quite upsetting. I had to revamp my skincare regime to fit this new skin type and I have finally perfected a routine that works for me. The following products have gotten my skin clear and back on track!

CLEANSE: NEUTROGENA OIL-FREE ACNE WASH PINK GRAPEFRUIT FACIAL CLEANSER

Overview: I have been using this product since high school and it has worked quite well for me. It does a great job of thoroughly cleansing my skin while still being very gentle.

Formulation: This is a non-comedogenic facial cleanser, which keeps those pores free from any sort of blockage. It has grape fruit extract, Vitamin C, and 2% Salicylic Acid; all great ingredients for fighting off acne. I find that a lot of acne products out there with Salicylic Acid can often leave your skin feeling really dry. Fortunately, I have not experienced any dryness with this cleanser. It just leaves my skin feeling nice and clean!

Application: I like to use this with my Sephora Precision Pore Cleansing Pad. I love using this silicone pad because it gives the product a nice lather and works well to gently massage my skin. I put a pump of product onto the pad and work in circular motions around my face. I then rinse off with lukewarm water.

Purchase: $8.96 for 177 mL at Walmart

 

EXFOLIATE: ST.IVES APRICOTE SCRUB

Overview: This is another drugstore product I have been faithful to for quite some time. It is a good quality, budget friendly product that has worked well for me.

Formulation: This product contains Apricot Extract and 2% Salicylic Acid making it a great product for acne prone skin. Like most scrubs the texture is gritty, but it is gentle and definitely not abrasive. It does a great job at removing all those dead skin cells and leaving your face feeling soft as a baby’s bottom!

Application: I exfoliate my face with this scrub about once or twice a week. I make sure to never over exfoliate my skin, as that can be very damaging. I squeeze out a small amount and massage it into my wet skin using circular motions. I like to let it sit on my skin for about 30 sec or so, until I start to feel a tingling sensation. I then wash it off with lukewarm water.

Purchase: $4.57 for 150 mL at Walmart

 

TONE: THE BODY SHOP TEA TREE SKIN CLEARING TONER

Overview: This is an extra step that some like to do, and some don’t. I personally find that using a toner helps to remove that last bit of makeup or residue that my cleanser couldn’t tackle. Adding this specific toner to my regime has helped even out my skin tone, and cut down on the healing time of my scars.

Formulation: This product is formulated with Tamanu oil, White Willow Bark extracts, and Tea Tree oil- the key ingredient. Tea Tree Oil has antibacterial properties that help disinfect and heal, which is great for both active acne and scars. If you have normal to dry skin I would not recommend you use this, as it is a bit drying. This particular toner is targeted more towards oily skin.

Application: I start by shaking the bottle to activate the ingredients. I then use a cotton pad to sweep this across my face and neck. Make sure to use the tiniest amount of product because it will sting! A little is all you need to get the full benefits of this toner. I especially love applying this in the morning because it has a cool, refreshing feel that will wake you right up!

Purchase: $14.00 for 250mL at The Body Shop

 

TREAT: LA ROCHE POSAY EFFACLAR DUO GLOBAL ACTION ACNE TREATMENT

Overview: I really have to thank this product for clearing up my skin. It is definitely on the “holy grail” list. I have recommended it to many people because it has worked so well on my skin!

Formulation: This contains 5.5% Benzoyl Peroxide which helps get rid of bacteria as well as exfoliate dead skin cells. It absorbs well into the skin and doesn’t have a drying affect. I have tried other acne treatments, which have caused a lot of peeling and redness. This product is really gentle and is great to keep that mild acne at bay.

Application: I take a pea-sized amount and apply a thin layer all over my face and neck. I like to gently pat it into my skin to make sure it absorbs well. As you apply, be careful not to get this around the eyes, as is it too harsh for such a sensitive area. I would also recommend using this every few days in the beginning, so your skin can slowly get accustomed and not overly irritated.

Purchase: $26.00 for 40 mL at Shoppers Drug Mart

 

MOISTURIZE: CETAPHIL SENSITIVE SKIN MOISTURIZING LOTION

Overview: This is a great basic moisturizer. It is a no muss, no fuss type of product that does the job right. It is inexpensive, you get a ton of product, and it works great!

Formulation: It is important to keep your skin hydrated, especially when using acne treatments. This product is very moisturizing without being heavy or greasy. It absorbs well into my skin and helps lock in moisture. It is also fragrance free and non-comedogenic, making it a well-rounded product especially for those of you with sensitive and oily skin.

Application: I take a generous amount of product, gently pat it into my face, and bring it down to onto my neck. I also apply this around my eyes as it is quite gentle, and I haven’t experienced any sort of irritation.

Purchase: $9.67 for 250mL at Walmart

 

I hope this helps those of you with a similar skin type. Remember, everyone’s skin is different so what works for me might not work for you. It’s really about experimenting to see what your skin likes, and of course patience! Give the products time to see the effects on you skin. My skin has its ups and downs, and is definitely far from being perfect, but I will continue my skin journey to get it looking the best I can.

PS. I am still on the search for a hydrating eye cream so let me know if anyone has any suggestions!

 

 

NOVEMBER FAVOURITES

I have been experimenting with a few products last month and thought I would share my thoughts; enjoy!

MARIO BADESCU DRYING LOTION

I have been breaking out a lot on my chin due to excessive holiday treats and this has definitely been my saviour! It is a spot treatment formulated with salicylic acid to help decrease the appearance of pimples. I put it on all the troubled areas before bed and when I wake up they are noticeably smaller. It has worked quite fast for me, which also prevents them from scarring as much. It does have a rather unpleasant smell when first applied, but as soon as it dries it’s fine!

THE BODY SHOP TEA TREE SKIN CLEARING TONER

This is a great product for those of you with oily acne prone skin like myself. It helps wipe away any left over makeup and impurities, leaving your skin feeling clean and fresh. It has a bunch of great ingredients that help with minimizing the appearance of scars and evening out your skin tone. I scar quite easily when I get a pimple so pairing this toner with the Mario Badescu Drying Lotion has been working great!

NIVEA LIP BUTTER

This is the perfect lip product to have for those cold dry months to come. It is a creamy balm that does a great job of hydrating your lips. If you are someone that loves Vaseline then you will likely enjoy this product as well. It has a similar consistency as Vaseline but feels a bit more luxurious. I picked up the vanilla and macadamia lip butter, which smells delicious!

MAC RAZIN BLUSH

This blush is absolutely gorgeous! It is a matte dusty rose colour that is perfect for the fall and winter season. It is a warm earthy tone that will give your makeup that sultry feel. Because it is such a deep colour, it almost gives my cheekbones definition, similar to that of a contour. It’s a great colour for those of you with a dark skin tone. I think it would look especially stunning on those deep dark beauties out there. It is definitely highly pigmented so apply this with a light hand; a little goes a long way.  

MAC MINERALIZED SKIN FINISH IN DARK DEEP

I have no clue why I haven’t picked this up earlier; it is beautiful! It gives your skin that bronze glow without being too harsh. I find that some bronzer’s can either look quite red or ashy on my skin, so I was quite pleased to find a product with a happy medium. This is the perfect colour for bronzing, especially for brown skin. I am in love!

LOREAL TELESCOPIC MASCARA

This has been my go to mascara lately. It has quite a unique applicator, which works well to coat and define each lash, giving you that long and separated effect. I enjoy pairing this with a volumizing mascara to really give my lashes that long and full effect.

Try out these products and let me know how they work for you! What have been your favourite products to use lately?

FAVOURITE SHOWER PRODUCTS: REVIEW

It’s always nice to come home after a long day and take a warm shower. It’s important to have products that make this experience enjoyable, as well as get the job done right! From exfoliating to moisturizing, you want to find the right products to suit your needs. Here are my favourite go-to shower products that I love to use and have been working wonders for me!

1. EXFOLIATE: BUFFY BODY BUTTER

Overview: I am completely obsessed with this stuff! I actually look forward to the part of the week when I get to use this. It almost feels like a mini massage; it’s just so relaxing! This is a step I do about once a week to get rid of those dead skin cells.

Formulation: This exfoliator has a bunch of great natural ingredients to help your skin become soft and silky smooth. It has Cocoa Butter, Shea butter, ground rice, almonds, and the list goes on! It has a rough texture – as it is an exfoliator, which helps buff away dead skin cells. It may be a bit abrasive for those of you with sensitive skin so make sure to test it out on a small area of your body first. In terms of the scent, it smells absolutely delicious!

Application: Wet your body as well as the bar, and massage into your skin using circular motions. Make sure to apply this away from running water so the scrub has a chance to sit on the skin for a while before getting washed away. This also helps keep your scrub bar from disintegrating so every last bit is used. Now wash off and you will immediately notice how much softer your skin is!

Purchase: You can purchase the 95 g piece for $11.95 from Lush. Lush is great because they give you demos in store and even samples for you to see how it feels before you purchase. Definitely pick up a sample before you go for the full size!

2. CLEANSE: OLAY BODY WASH

Overview: This is my go to cleanser that I’ve been using for a few years now. It’s super simple and gets the job done! It gets me squeaky clean and provides just the right amount of hydration.

Formulation: It is a thick and creamy formula that lathers up nicely leaving you feeling clean and fresh. It definitely keeps me moisturized and hydrated. It also has a fresh, almost buttery fragrance that I quite enjoy.

Application: Squeeze into your hands, lather all over your body, and rinse. This is great to use as a shaving cream as well!

Purchase: $4.47 from Walmart

3. CONDITION: RO’S ARGAN BODY CONDITIONER

Overview:  I absolutely love this rose scented conditioner. It really gives your skin a luxurious feel! I mostly use this during the winter months but its great all year. I use this when I notice my skin can use that extra bit of hydration. I generally use this about once or twice a month.

Formulation: This conditioner has a beautiful creamy texture. It is filled with cocoa butter, argan oil, almond oil, etc., all great ingredients to soften the skin. If you love the smell of roses then this is the product for you! After using this you’ll smell like you’ve been rolling around in roses all day; it’s to die for!

Application: After cleansing, I slather my body with it, let it absorb for a bit, and then rinse it off. A little goes a long way and leaves your skin feeling delightful!

Purchase: $32.95 for a 240g container from Lush

 

4. MOISTURIZE: VASELINE INTENSIVE CARE COCOA RADIANT LOTION

Overview: Cocoa butter is one of my favourite ingredients to use on my skin so it was natural that I gravitated towards this lotion. It is a simple moisturizer that is great for hydrating dry skin.

Formulation: It has a light formula but definitely penetrates deep to hydrate. It has that delicious smell cocoa butter provides that you can’t go wrong with.

Application: After patting yourself dry with a towel, use all over your body to moisturize.

Purchase: $7.77 from Walmart

Make sure you guys try out these products and let me know what you think!

FAVOURITE MAKEUP REMOVERS: REVIEW

As much as I love makeup, there’s no better feeling than taking it all off at the end of the day. It’s important to take off your makeup and let your skin breath! I’ve tried a bunch of different makeup removers and find that these work best for my sensitive skin. Here are my three favourite makeup removers, perfect for all skin types!

1. CLEANSING WATER: BIODERMA SENSIBIO H2O

Overview: This product has been raved about time and time again, and for good reason. It is such a simple and effective solution that definitely makes the “Holy Grail” status in my books.  It removes makeup but also has a soothing effect, which is nice for sensitive, troubled skin. I also particularly enjoy the instant refreshing feel it provides.

Formulation: My favourite thing about this product is how incredibly gentle the solution is. The formula is hypoallergenic, Alcohol-free and Paraben-free, so it’s suitable for all skin types and won’t break you out. It is also fragrance free, which I like because it keeps the solution simple and straight to the point. There aren’t any harsh fragrances taking away from the freshness of the solution.

Application: Majority of the time, I use this product to remove my eye makeup, as it is so gentle. I empty a little onto a cotton pad and place it over my eye. I let it soak in for a second and then wipe away the makeup. When I use this on my face, I use a cotton pad and apply using strokes moving away from my skin. I also love using this on a cotton swab to clean up the edges of my eye makeup to give it a nice and crisp look.

Purchase: I picked up the 250 ml bottle at Shoppers Drug Mart for $19.95 on sale ($23 regular). It comes in a 100 ml, 250 ml, and 500 ml bottle. It is a little pricey for a drug store product but it lasts quite long. It also goes on sale often so definitely look out for that to save a few bucks! If you are looking to just try this product out, definitely pick up the travel sized 100 ml bottle.

2. CLEANSING BALM: CLINIQUE TAKE THE DAY OFF

Overview: I love using this stuff to remove my makeup at the end of the day. I literally stand in front of the sink (for probably an excessive amount of time), and massage it into my skin. It’s like a relaxing mini facial!

Formulation: This comes in a white solid balm that turns into oil when it comes in contact with heat. It also has no fragrance, which again is a bonus for me.

Application: I scoop out a little product, warm it in between my fingers and then massage it into my face using circular motions. Make sure you apply it directly to dry skin. Next, I take a little water and apply to my face until it turns into a milky consistency. This really helps to break down all that makeup. I then just go ahead and wash everything off with warm water.

Purchase: I got this at Sephora for $35. It is pricey but a little goes a long way and it lasts me a couple of months. I believe you can grab a sample of this product to take home and try out before you take the plunge and purchase the full size.

3. OIL: SAPORITO EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL

Overview: One can never go wrong with olive oil! There are tons of uses for it and most people have this sitting right in their kitchen. This is the most simple and cost effective way to remove makeup. No muss no fuss.

Formulation: Olive oil is packed with vitamins and antioxidants. Not only will it help with breaking down makeup, but it also helps with moisturizing, calming irritated skin, etc. I can honestly dedicate a whole blog just for the endless uses of olive oil. It really is great for any part of the body, both inside and out.

Application: I store my olive oil in a little eye drop container and place it in my washroom. I put a few drops onto my hands, warm it up and massage into my skin. I then wash my face and use a damp towel to get all that oil and makeup off.

Purchase: I got this particular olive oil from Food Basics for $3.49. You can find a variety of different olive oils at any grocery store and it is definitely the cheapest route to take.

Makeup remover is only the first step to completely cleansing your skin. Make sure you follow-up with your favourite cleanser to get your face squeaky clean! If you guys try out any of these products let me know how they worked for you! I’d also love to hear what your favourite makeup removers are. Hope you enjoyed, toddles!