It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Cream Review

I held out on this foundation for a while. However between you and I, I personally found the colouring of the "light" shade a touch too orange, yet had an alarming grey grey cast at same time. So while the whole beauty world (and my very own mother) was singing CC cream praises, I was avoiding looking like an ompa lumpa. Staying stubborn to take the plunge for years, somehow I got my hands on a tube and here we are today.

As mentioned it above, the colour of the Light shade is incredibly strange. When swatched on the hand it looks a crazy shade of orange, but still remains to look slightly dull and grey at the same time. I'm not going to lie I was really hesitant to wear this to work, or anywhere for that matter. So after building enough courage on a lazy (stay-at-home) sunday afternoon I gave the mysterious CC cream a fair go...

This is totally going to sound dramatic but, somehow and almost magically this strange orange-grey foundation just works on the skin. With just a single pump my skin was instantly more luminous, more hydrated and with a surprising amount of coverage. Personally, I like the light to medium coverage of one pump. It Cosmetics however recommends two pumps for a fuller coverage look. 

On the skincare front this foundation has a boat load of goodness going on. Its got anti-aging antioxidants, hydrating hyaluronic acid, skin firming peptides, moisturizing grape seed oil and anti inflammatory turmeric extract. So could you skin about on your skincare if you use this? I personally wouldn't, but if you were lazy about these sorts of things this might be a go to for you. One thing you can skip out on while using this is sun screen, because It Cosmetics CC cream packs an hefty SPF of 50.

I love this foundation it has amazing ingredients, blends into the skin with extreme ease, has a high SPF and the bottom line is it really looks beautiful on the skin. True fact but I also really the packaging as its lightweight and the pump is super practical. So if you've been thinking about trying the It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC Cream, I say give it ago.  Living up to all of the hype is this CC cream, it's one of my all time favourite foundations and for that reason you need to stop what your doing and get your hands on a tube. 

You can get this product here. 

NOID Sanskrit Saponins Review

Where have I been? The quick answer to this is summering, which basically for means going to the splash pad and walking to the local ice cream shop daily. However as time has passed I’ve noticed myself talking to strangers, family and co-workers about beauty, which means one thing to me… start blogging. 

Today I’m coming to you with Niod review. Noid is a part of the Deciem family, sister to the highly popular and highly coveted Ordinary skincare range. Unlike the basic (but amazing) Ordinary, Noid is the high tech and innovative old sister. Family semantics aside for me Sanskirt Saponins (SS) is one heck of an interesting product so lets get get into the nitty and gritty of things. 

When I think of a cleansing balm, I think of a thick, maybe even an oily product that helps break down make up. Deciem/Noid describes SS as a balm and I suppose it is, but it's not the type of cleansing balm I'm use to. The consistency of SS that of a thick paste and almost mud like. Once applied onto the skin it doesn't foam nor does it make a lather. The finish of the this product is slightly drying, thanks to the saponins, what is basically natures natural soap.  In addition to cleansing Saponins also have anti oxidant and have anti inflammation properties too.

I'm slightly everywhere with this product but despite the slightly drying finish and weird consistency, I love it!

Let's say you may have been at the beach for the day or may have taken a hot yoga class. Or let's be real here maybe you consumed way too much wine, followed by a eating a whole pizza at 3:00am and you wake up and just feel... dirty.  This product is for you! 

Whenever I am feeling like I need a deep cleanse this is the perfect addition my skincare routine. While the finish is slightly drying it surprisingly passes quickly and the formula is relatively gentle. I've heard about people using this as a mask for a more heavy duty treatment. Personally, I haven't tried it but i thought I would put it out there. So where are we with SS, it's weird but it works incredibly well. If your someone who has normally congested skin or if your looking for a deep cleaning treatment (like me) I can't recommend this enough. 

Link to product here. 

I tried Fancy Coconut Oil

Popping up in your local Sephora is a handful of luxury lines that offer coconut oil. Which is weird considering this one ingredient product can be found in just about any grocery store. Why are these so much and are they worth are two things that came into mind. So I bought the fancy Skinny & Co Coconut oil to see what all the hype was about.

Firstly and not to bore you with my life story, but I’ve have been using coconut oil as a beauty product for years. At first it was my favourite deep conditioner treatment. A short while after that I realized it made an excellent body oil because it had cured dry patches on my skin overnight. So for almost a decade I always kept a bottle of generic organic coconut oil handy for solely beauty reasons.

Skinny and Co pride themselves on being the only alkaline coconut oil that is cold pressed and 100% raw. Like normal coconut oil the Skinny and Co is hard at room temperature and oily at warmer temperatures. Skinny and co left my skin feeling soft and nourished. I also used this on Everleigh earlier this spring when she had a slight eczema flare up, again it helped hydrate and soothe her skin. It’s not a bad product by any means, but…

Coconut oil can be used for so many different reasons (see all here), and I think every home should own one. However I personally think if you buy a high quality, organic coconut oil from the grocery store like Nutiva which is considerably cheaper it more or less performs the same. So ladies and gents, I tried fancy coconut oil and while I enjoyed it, I realized it’s just coconut oil.

I know a lot of people have tried this and like it so please feel free to leave your experiences below!

Paula’s Choice Radiance Renewal Mask Review

If you were thinking I sit here all day testing face masks and eating bonbons you’ve got the wrong girl. My recent favourite face mask trial area is my car (I wish I was joking), but I figure since I’m stuck in traffic I might as well pop on a mask before I make my journey home. On a recent spa induced rush hour car ride home I actually tested a bright green face mask. Somewhere between avoiding road rage and looking like a sea monster it crossed my mind that I wish that was clear like my ‘Paula mask’ which was shortly followed by the realization that I have never even mentioned it on my blog. So today we are talking about one of my all-time favourite mask’s Paula’s Radiance Renewal Mask.

Let’s talk about the basics. I love this mask for many reasons but I have to say its convenient pump and clear finish mean I can pop this on at any time. Also, don’t let the ‘overnight’ thing confuse you because you could wear this for a couple of hours during the day too. Personally my favourite way to use this mask is on a lazy Sunday, where I just apply a generous amount on my face and forget about it.

Despite being a friendly, easy to use mask, this mask is loaded with fantastic ingredients. Where do I even begin? Let’s start with hydrating hyaluronic acid, moisturizing olive oil and willow bark extra which is perfect natural way to control oil. This mask also contains vitamin c which is one of the best ingredients for healthy, radiant skin. Along with all the goodness this mask doesn’t contain any nasties like parabens.

If didn’t want to look like a green monster during rush hour this one is for you!

Kidding, Kidding…With its clear, effective formula and its convenient pump this mask that you can pop on just about any time and anywhere. On me this mask doesn’t leave a greasy residue, and furthermore the gel texture isn’t messy and washes away with ease. If you were looking for a mask that really packs in nutrients and leaves your skin looking plump, radiant and more even toned you need to try Paula’s Radiance Renewal Mask.

Tata Harper Purifying Mask Review

The last time I tried a Tata product I had a magical experience. Yes, I’m fully aware that this is one bold of a statement. However Tata’s Regenerating Cleanser (review here) is so good and so immediately effective that it gives you that healthy skin glow even within the first use. Tata’s products are 100% natural and non-toxic, 100% of the time. It’s the kind of range that is natural but without a doubt the textures, the scents and the results are complete luxury. So today I’m back with my second Tata review, so without any more chit chat let’s get started.

The Purifying Mask is a clay mask and before you start thinking purifying must mean ‘oily skin types’, this mask is actually intended to fight visible signs of aging and is intended for all skin types. Tata’s website claims that this mask ‘tackles visible signs of aging causes by environmental stressors’ and it does this by ‘purging build up and impurities’.

The first ingredient to this mask is aloe and I have to say I whole hearted love that. Aloe is perfect at calming redness to soothing really irritated skin. It also has the benefit of being suitable for every skin type and (my favourites thing) feeling really refreshing too. The next notable ingredients are healing arnica, hydrating calendula and antioxidant rich prickly pear extract. However my favourite component has to be brown algae. Brown algae naturally encourages the skin to develop collagen, promotes moisture retention, has anti-bacterial benefits and purifies the skin… it’s more or less a superfood for your skin.

Even after one use I noticed my skin looking more even toned, refreshed and hydrated. Unlike most clay masks Tata’s Purifying Mask feels undeniably refreshing, making it the perfect  skincare option for hot summer days (for even for kissed skin). The ingredients of this mask are well thought out, suitable for every skin type and non-toxic. The feel of the mask is luxurious, the scent is heavenly and the weighted pot happens to fit ever so nicely in the palm of your skin. If you were have dry skin, sunburnt skin, acne or if your skin just needs a little extra TLC Ta ta’s Harper’s Purifying Mask is the perfect SOS mask to keep on hand.  If you get a change to visit a Sephora store or Tata Harper counter, I can’t recommend the Purifying Mask enough!

Acure Brightening Facial Scrub Review

Over the past few years chemical exfoliants like BHA or AHA’s have exploded.  Don’t get me wrong I love a good acid exfoliation treatment, however every once in a while a get the urge to scrub the crap out of my face. A good physical exfoliant helps makeup apply smoother, increases circulation and studies have indicated that it helps stimulate collagen production. So I’m putting aside my love for lactic acid, and I’m talking about my new bestie Acure’s Brightening Facial Scrub. 

Acure’s Brightening Facial Scrub is a walnut shell based scrub but before you think this is a one trick pony, it’s not! This scrub features a ton of amazing ingredients such as soothing aloe, anti-oxidant rich acai fruit extract and one of my favourite natural anti-aging ingredients rosehip extract.  This scrub also features hydrating olive oil and nourishing Argan oil. Basically while you’re busy sloughing off dead skin cells this scrub really packs in the nutrients to your skin. The end result is dramatically smooth skin, that’s baby soft to the touch yet not stripped at the slightest. 

On a side note for us beauty geeks out there this also contains Madonna leaf, lemon peel, green clay, sage extract, kelp, calendula extract … I can seriously go on for days. The formula is remarkable and if you’re interested you can check out the ingredient list here. 

A physical exfoliator is a critical part to beautiful looking skin. However since the market is littered with ‘micro-beads’ or extremely harsh formulas I’m always hesitant to recommend one.  Acure’s Brightening Facial Scrub is not one of these scrubs. In fact it’s very gentle, especially if used on wet skin. This vegan, chemical free scrub goes for 13.99 (here) making it not only an excellent product but a very affordable one at that. Cost efficient, gentle, effective and loaded with excellent ingredients Acure’s Brightening Scrub is nothing short of amazing! 

Pixi Double Cleanse Review

When I first discovered beauty my love was all for the makeup. However as every year passes my love for makeup subsides and my passion for skincare rises. Don’t get me wrong I’m still a blush addict and a tinted lip balm lover, but for me having healthy looking skin is everything. Actually, I know I’m not the only one thinking this because in the past few years skincare has exploded. If you look further into the skincare surge two things are obvious, 1. Effective, affordable priced skincare has become more mainstream, 2. Due to bloggers skincare has become cool and interesting rather then a chore. So when your favourite affordable skincare line releases a colab product with your favourite skincare bloggers I mean you really have no choice then to buy the product.

Today I'm reviewing Pixi's collaboration with Caroline Hirons. For those of you who didn't know Caroline is a blogger and fairy godmother of all things skincare. However most importantly the person who put double cleansing on the map.

For those of you thinking ‘why would I double cleanse’, my answer to you is you should be because it can make a huge difference in your skin. The first step to the double cleanse is using some sort of fatty cleanser to break down dirt and makeup. The second step is using a cleanser that treats your skin. For example if you had dry skin this is where you would put your hydrating cleanser. The combination of the two cleanses takes only a few minutes it will seriously make your skin look clearer and more luminous than ever before.

Caroline’s double cleanser consists of two cleansers (a solid cleansing oil, and a cleansing cream) in one convenient package. The solid cleansing oil contains vitamin e, moisturizing camellia oil and redness reducing evening primrose oil. However and most importantly the texture of this cleansing oil glides over your face with easy and breaks apart makeup like no one’s business. The second cream cleanser is really nice too. It contains peptides that plump the skin, hydrating hyaluronic acid, soothing aloe, arginine which helps improve elasticity. Both cleansers are scent free and contain zero nasty ingredients.


I like this product a lot, its works, it comes in convenient packaging and at $25.00 for two cleansers it’s cost effective too. Most importantly because of the gentle formula I can see a lot of skin types enjoying this. So Caroline thank you for being witty, introducing us to the double cleanse and teaming up with Pixi! If you see Pixi’s double cleanse it’s a product that I love and can’t recommend enough.

The Ordinary’s High Spreadablity Primer

In the past few months I have been obsessed with The Ordinary. Not only do there product’s appeal to the science nerd in me, but they are incredibly effective, priced fairly and there ingredients are everything. Thus far I’ve yet to have a negative run in with the brand until now. So today I’m taking on The Ordinary’s High Spreadablity Primer.

This primer contains finely milled silicone molecules. These fine flexible silicone molecules make a thin, lightweight, matrix on your skin. In return this makes makeup adhere to your skin like no one’s business. The Ordinary claims that this has a serum finish that makes your skin glow. I would say this has a thin consistency with a good amount of slip to it. Unlike other silicone primers High Spreadablity Fluid Primer is without a doubt more light weight than any other I’ve tried. 

I should also mention after a few weeks of use this makes my makeup look fresh from 6:00am in the morning to 8:00pm at night. Over 12 hours of wear, solid formula, where’s the negative?

My issue with High Spreadablity comes down to the packaging. Now I like this apothecary style, pipette style packaging for skincare, but when it comes to this primer I’ve noticed chunky clumps of primer appear around the top of the product. Even the product itself seems to be slightly thicker then when I first bought it 2 months ago. The combination of the product buildup along with the change of consistency has ultimately made me discontinue use.

Solid formula, excellent wear time and at $7.90 a pop this primer is extremely budget friendly. However personally I would rather spend more money and get a product with a longer shelf life. Since opening this bottle a little less than two months ago the formula has gone off and for that reason I highly suggest proceeding with caution.

Neal’s Yards Frankincense Intense Lift Serum

There are excellent, affordable skin care options out there and because of that I am extremely hard on 'fancy' skin care. For me a luxury product has to have excellent ingredients and a beautiful feel. It’s a product that makes you think ‘damn, is that ever clever’, but most importantly a luxury product should be an experience. For me a product that has ticked every box is Neal’s Yards new Frankincense Intense Lift Serum.

Let’s start with the basics… Neil’s Yard opened its door’s in Covent Garden, England in 1981. To this day Neil’s Yard strongly believes that beauty should be “natural, not synthetic”. In addition they believe in the environment, honesty and transparency. There website fully illustrates the good things they do from environmental projects to ethical sourcing practices. Their products contain only the best, organic natural and wild ingredients. In addition there products don’t contain silicones, mineral oils, parabens, GM ingredients, phthalates and they do not test on animals.

The Neal’s Yard ethics are wonderful, but for me Frankincense Intense Lift Serum really comes down to the ingredients. This serum boasts micro-algae, which helps the skin against environment stressors. It also contains hydrating linseed oil and skin plumping hyaluronic acid (two different kinds just to be specific). However my 3 favourite other ingredients are without a doubt turmeric, frankincense and ribose.

Turmeric had been used for centuries in skincare. Oily skin types will love its anti bacterial properties as well as its ability to control oil. While anyone looking for a natural age-fighter will be happy to find out turmeric is filled with antioxidants. It’s also been proven to lighten pigmentation and discolouration too.

My next favourite (and also used for centuries) ingredient is frankincense. Now this is what give this serum it’s beautiful luxe scent. From an aromatherapy standpoint frankincense induces feelings of relaxation and well-being. However research has shown that because of it’s powerful astringency it’s helps decrease the size of pores and over time lift the skin.

Finally this serum boasts a very cool ingredient called ribose. Without getting too nerdy, this ingredient is a naturally sugar that occurs in all living things. Once applied onto the skin this sugar stimulates the construction of proteins, restricts the breakdown of tissue and prevents wrinkles from appearing. Basically it’s the only known ingredient that controls energy on a cellular level.

I love Neal’s Yard ethics and business practices and I love this product. Frankincense Intense Lifting Serum is the best of old world beauty combined with modern technology. On myself my skin looked immediately plumped, and with extended use fine lines on my forehead were minimized. The scent of this product is beautiful, and the texture of the product is lightweight yet rich. If you have anti-aging concerns, want to try a healthy approach to skin care, but most importantly want something that works Neal’s Yard Frankincense Intense Lift Serum is definitely a one to try.

More information here! 

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5

Hyaluronic acid is an excellent skincare ingredient. This miracle humectant helps keep the skin stay plumed and hydrated. It does this by holding 1000 times its weight in water. The best part is since hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring ingredient everyone can seek benefit from this wonder. At one point hyaluronic acid was cutting edge, however these days this ingredient is just old news…

I say that with the upmost respect, because it’s one of my favourite skin care ingredients. I love it! My skin loves it! Where am I going with this? What I’m trying to say is I adore this ingredient, but since it’s old technology I would never spurge on a serum that just featured hyaluronic acid alone. The crazy thing is some product’s that feature hyaluronic acid sell for well over the $100.00 mark. So for those about to spurge and want to save look no further then The Ordinary. 

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 gives you 3 different forums of hylauronic acid, each at three different molecular weights. Meaning this is going to give multi-depth hydration and really plump up your skin. The formula also features vitamin B5, which is an excellent moisturizer too. Now I will say this formula isn’t as refined as some hyaluronic acid skin care I’ve tried. You won’t get that beautiful slip, luscious scent or pretty packaging, but what you are getting is a product that works just as good. On my dehydrated, dry skin I noticed an almost immediate difference. Less then a latte at Starbucks you need to give this $6.80 skincare treat a try.

The Ordinary’s Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2% Review

Back in January, I declared my love for Sunday Riley’s Good Gene’s. This lactic acid treatment left my skin luminous, healthy and even toned (review here). The only set back with this miracle product was that it was $175.00. So despite Good Gene’s being effective I had my ears open for any lactic acid treatment. Coming in at $6.70, literally less than 26 times the price of Good Gene’s I decided to give The Ordinary’s Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2% a try. 

Like any good blogger I need to be fully transparent. When comparing Good Gene’s to The Ordinary’s Lactic Acid 10% it’s important to keep in mind you’re getting a lot of things that The Ordinary doesn’t contain. For example Good Gene’s contains prickly pear extract, blue agave extract, yeast, lemongrass oil and Montana flower extract. All these extracts and fermentations add to the price, thus making it a luxury skin care product. With The Ordinary you’re not getting all the bells and whistles, but what you are getting is a brilliant, respectable lactic acid treatment. 

Let’s start from the beginning Lactic acid is a alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). Basically this skin care ingredent eats away at dead skin cells leaving you with luminious lookin skin. In addition lactic acid also helps stimulate collegen production which helps plump up the skin. Despite the fact that AHA’s sounding like a horror movie they are relivitly gentle. In fact most skin types can seek some sort of benefit from lactic acid. 

The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% has the pH of 3.8 making it gentle, but an aggressive chemical exfoliator. Personally, in comparison to Good Gene’s pH of 2.6 The Ordinary has an undoubtly more gentle composition. This is the kind of acid that I can use everday without redness or irrtation. However should you feel like tiptoeing your way into the world of chemical exfoliators they make a 5% lactic acid. Which I haven’t tried because I want all of the exfoliation. Another reason why you shouldn’t be scarred of this exfoliator is the addition of addition of Pepperberry, which helps reduce irritation. At mentioned before I did not have the slightest irritation… so fear not. 

After 4 weeks of (almost) everyday use I have to say I love this stuff. My skin is luminous, even toned and hydrated. Yes, hydrated because they also put hyaluronic acid in the formula just to give your skin some extra love. So if you were thinking about buying Good Gene’s and you wanted to spurge I say do it. However if you’re looking for similar results, but at a fraction of the cost you need to stop what you’re doing and get some The Ordinary Lactic Acid 10% + HA 2% right now.

Darphin Aromatic Cleansing Balm Review

I’m going to start this review with a confession, well multiple confessions. 

1.I have been purchasing way too much skin care lately. I say that like its problem, but I live for this! 

2. I have been on the search for a thick cleansing balm. 

3. I love affordable skincare, but the last truth is I’ve been craving something luxe. Sure there are many affordable cleansing balm out there, but I desire decadence (within reason). 

Admired by many and respected in the beauty community I ended up with Darphin’s Aromatic Cleansing Balm and 3 weeks of thoroughly testing here are my thoughts.

Darphin was founded on the principal of perfection. There products smell divine, the ingredient list not only features the best components but it’s actually maliciously thought out too. Why does there packaging fit perfectly in the palm of your hand? It’s rounded and weighted. Why does there body range smell heavenly? There roses are painstakingly picked at dawn to ensue you are getting the scent of the unfolding flower… that kind of perfection. It’s actually one of the only companies that openly admits they don’t care how much their product costs, because they refuse to cut back on quality. So when I craved a fancy cleansing balm, Darphin was my number one choice. 

Despite the beautiful weighted glass and the lovely scent, for me this cleansing balm is all about the ingredients. This cleansing balm contains an hydrogenated polydecene base. This high end man made oil is commonly used as a replacement to mineral oil, it’s perfect for sensitive skin and oily too. While some swear in its antiaging benefits, I personally love the slip this gives. Meaning you can really work this cleansing balm into your skin. The good people at Darphin have also added nourishing jojoba oil and hydrating macadamia seed oil, both excellent lightweight oils perfect for most skin types. 

My favourite feature is the addition of rosewood oil. This oil is really a miracle product, because it balances all skin types, helps support healthy regeneration of cells and helps maintain elasticity to the skin. Also, on the aromatherapy side of things rosewood has anxiety, depression fighting qualities. Some also report that rosewood works as an aphrodisiac … what I’m saying is hubby stay away from my Darphin. 

This also has soothing, pure vanilla extract which makes this cleansing balm smell absolutely heavenly. In addition vanilla is also an anti-oxidant and yes, it too can be used by every skin type. My only knock on this product is that the website doesn’t feature a complete ingredient list, because if I was Darphin I would be plastering it everywhere. With that being said I called Darphin’s customer service and they emailed me one in less than 5 minutes time.

Despite the minor hiccup in ingredients, I have to say I love Darphin’s Aromatic Cleansing Balm. Its rich, luxurious, spreads easily over the skin, removes makeup and smells like a fancy spa. The formula is paraben free and features some excellent ingredients. It’s the perfect product for a lavish spa at home experience and it can be used by every skin type. From the weighted bottle to the heavenly scent if your craving a skin care treat look no further than the Darphin Aromatic Cleansing Balm.

Pixi Shea Butter Lip Balm

I’ve done so many skin care reviews lately I thought today let’s keep thing simple and talk lip balm. Not that skincare is complicated, but just because lip balm is one of those products that doesn’t require much research, testing or insight. It’s the kind of product that you can try once and even in the first application formulate some sort of opinion on. So with its cute mauve and mint green packaging let’s tackle Pixi’s Shea Butter Lip Balm. 

While Pixi calls this a lip balm, I would consider this an anti-lipstick. Meaning you’re getting all the pigmentation you would in a lipstick but as far as texture goes this is as light and as hydrating as a lip balm. The formula features moisturizing shea butter as well as protective vitamin C. In comparison to many glossy finished tined lip balms I’ve tried Natural Rose applies semi-matte on my lips. Actually I have to say natural rose is a stunning true your lips but better colour. Which is perfect if you want to get on the matte lipstick train but fear having dry prune like lips all day. 

Pixi’s Shea Butter Lip Balm the kind of lip product that you can just throw on, making it a perfect low maintenance product for girls on the go. In addition the packing is cute, the formula doesn’t contain any nasties and at $10.00 a pop it’s an excellent budget friendly lip product. For all those MAC lipstick lovers out there I find the scent almost identical. If you’re on the market for a new lip product or if your just a balm addict like myself, definitely check out the Pixi Shea Butter Lip Balm.

The Ordinary Buffet Serum Review

I am really having a moment with Deciem products right now. There products and brands philosophy is completely cutting edge and their Ordinary range is dare I say revolutionary. Yes, other brands take note the Ordinary is all about effective ingredients that give you scientifically proven results but at a fraction of the cost. The Ordinary range can do this by using already established formula's. Meaning you are not getting cutting edge technology here, but you are getting well-known formula's that work. Actually the whole range has made me reevaluate the some of the skincare I already own; I love Sunday’s Good Gene’s but is it really worth it? Furthermore this range could bring quality skincare to the masses, which I am 100% in board for. I digress; today I’m reviewing Deciem’s Buffet Serum so let’s begin. 

Buffet really is an all you can eat experience for your skin. It features hyaluronic acid that helps plump and hydrate your skin by retaining 1000 times weight in water. I have to say my skin responds well to hyaluronic acid, making it one of my favourite ingredients of all time. Next this serum features Matrixyl 3000 which is a peptide that mimics the effect of broken down collagen. The damaged collagen structure actually causes your skin to react by making more collagen and elastin. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy this serum also contains Matrixyl and Matrixyl Synthe C. These two peptides help stimulate collagen and repair damage done to the face. 

Buffet also features Syn-ake. This ingredient mimics the effect of snake venom, allowing for temporary muscular paralysis. This totally sounds terrifying but it’s not trust me, I see Syn-ake like a topical form of Botox. It works, but just like Botox the effects are short-term. Interestingly products that usually use Syn-ake typically cost a small fortune, however since this is a part of The Ordinary range you’ll be happy to hear that this product is very affordable. 

So all this technology in one small glass bottle I know your dying to know how much does it cost. The truth is this serum is an absolute steal coming in at $14.80 per a 30ml bottle. The texture is light and the serum itself is easily absorbed by the skin. While some people have categorized this as an ‘anti-aging’ product I would say if aging is on your mind you can use this. Also since this serum is oil free and scent free oily skin types and sensitive skin types can use this too. I should add the Buffet is also cruelty free, paraben free, vegan and silicone free too. I can’t say enough positive things about Buffet because it’s the kind of product that you need to stop what you’re doing and get a bottle ASAP.

The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors Review

Lately I have been trying out some products from The Ordinary and I have to say they have changed the way I look at skincare. I would even as far as to say these products will change the skincare industry. The Ordinary Range features products that offers familiar technology, but at a fraction of the price. Meaning this line isn’t meant to be cutting edge, but the formulas are effective and fairly priced. Clinically tested formula’s, inexpensive prices, no nasty ingredients and no BS marketing tactics this is the kind of mission statement I wish more brands had. 

I love The Ordinary range, however my first experiences with Deciem (The Ordinary’s mother company) were not the greatest. Back in the day I was testing their hair removal serum. Between you I found this product hair removal serum slightly on the confusing side. Now three years later, I am happy to report there is nothing confusing about Deciem’s, The Ordinary range it’s just straight forward respectable skincare products. Over the past couple of months I’ve tried a few things about Deciem and the truth is I don’t have a single bad thing to say. 

… I can seriously talk all day. So let’s start my chain of Ordinary reviews with one of my favourite products thus far Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA. 

Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF) is a simple moisturizer. This product aims at keeping the outer layer of skin protected and hydrated. This product despite being simple contains everything your skin needs this including 11 plumping amino acids, nourishing fatty acids and hydrating hyaluronic acid. The overall result is a moisturizer that really locks in moisture, but doesn't feel greasy or heavy. In fact this moisturizer is vegan, paraben free, fragrance free, oil free, cruelty free and the handy plastic tube makes it portable and sanitary.

So how much does this handy moisturizer cost? $5.90 Yes people this moisturizer happens to be one of the best beauty deals I've ever seen. In comparison to other moisturizers I've tried this bargain moisturizer holds it own. Perfect for most skin types including dry, sensitive and acne prone skin I can't recommend this enough. So if you were on the market for a product that has cutting edge technology this might not be for you. However if you needed a really good moisturizer, that works you need to stop what your doing and get this now. 

$5.90 and can be bought here. 

Etival Aqua Serge Night Butter

I didn't know anything about Etival skin care. And to be honest after hours of trying to find something, anything about the range I'm still back where I started. Let's go back to the beginning... shall we? 

I was walking through a drugstore (as one who is obsessed with skin care usually does) and I saw the majority of the Etival range on sale. Typically, I am not this impulsive but there was something about the baby blue box and the claims of hydration that made me think 'this could be the next best thing'. I also liked how they threw butter into the name. In my mind I was expecting a balm like moisturizer, thick, hydrating and perfect for my dry prone skin. 

In reality this moisturizer is a far cry from my expectations. Firstly, this 'butter' moisturizer is has a gel consistency. If you were thinking, this must be moisture central ... think again because this moisturizer is mildly hydrating (and I'm being generous). Next up, the scent. Typically, I'm not one to knock a product due to scent, but since this had so much perfume that it actually burnt my skin I thought it should be noted. What I'm getting to is Etival's Aqua Serge is pretty much everything I would expect from a cheap drugstore moisturizer. 

To further add to my frustration Etival's website does not feature ingredient listings or contact information. Etival doesn't even have Facebook page, nor does it have Instagram or Twitter. The only thing that I was able to tell from Etival's website is that it's sold at Shoppers Drug Mart. Which leads me to believe that this is Shopper's Drug Mart's attempt to get some market space in the skin care world. 

I love trying new skincare in hopes that there is an affordable hidden gem out there. Etival Aqua Serge Night Butter is not this product. It's drying, overly scent and poorly formulated. The lack of online support also aids to my frustration. Even though this came in at the $10.00 mark this product is a huge pass for me. 

Regular price ??? I payed just $10.99 and it was on sale. 

Bought at Shoppers Drug Mart 

Pixi Hydrating Milky Mist Review

Over the years I’ve forced my drunken friends to wash their faces and encouraged my non-skincare-caring friends to take care of their skin. I call this an act of good will, while they might see my tactics as slightly assertive. Yes, in my group of friends we have fair share of uninhabited partiers, lovey cat ladies but I reserve the spot of the uninhabited skincare enthusiast. So when the conversation switches from ‘my cat knows when I’m drunk’ to I tried this amazing facial mist, I take note. Actually I take paragraphs trying to capture as much information as possible. So with an overwarming amount of recommendation and after a month of testing here are my thoughts on Pixi’s Hydrating Milky Mist.

Pixi describes this mist as “deeply hydrating” and the “ultimate remedy for dry skin”. My friend boasted that this mist alone ‘cured’ her dry skin. In addition I feel like every blogger out there has boasted about this mist from one time to another. 

What I’m trying to get to is this hydration mist lives up to the hype because its down right exceptional. I would even go as far as to say as this is one of the best facial mists I’ve ever tried. 

My love for this starts with the ultra-nourishing formula. This mist features moisturizing black oat, hydrating hyluronic acid and the ever so skin plumping linoleic acid. While most mists mildly hydrate I would consider this mist a liquid moisturizer. Interestingly while Hydrating Milky Mist features a hydrating formula I find the mist incredibly light and non-greasy. 

Another notable triumph for me is the in the packing. Now there are three things I really like. Firstly and probably the least important I love the shade of green Pixi products use... random fact, but I like it so I thought I would put it out there. Next, I love the plastic packaging because it's lightweight and drop proof. Finally and probably the most important is Pixi's Hydrating Milky Mist has a wonderful fine mist. This delicate mist allows you to apply this on top of makeup, but at the same time doesn't smear your mascara. 

Drunken cat stories aside Pixi's Hydrating Milky Mist is one solid skincare product. It's hydrating, glow inducing, travel friendly and extremely addictive. If you have oily skin you could use this in replace of your moisturizer or if you fall into the dry skin category you can use this as a hydrating toner. With that being said if your like me, you can just mist yourself all day long! If you couldn't tell by now I absolutely love this stuff and can't recommend it enough. 

I bought this for $20.00 at my local Shoppers Drug Mart. 

Sunday Riley Luna Review

Bloggers, magazine editors and pretty much every beauty expert out there seems to go crazy for Sunday Riley products. Personally, I’ve tired two products out of the line, Good Gene’s (review here) and Luna. While Good Gene’s was a clear cut love, my relationship with Luna is slightly more complex. So without spilling all the beans in the first paragraph let’s get the show on the road. 

Luna is an anti-aging facial oil, that helps firm, smooth out wrinkles and diminish large pores. This facial oil contains a cocktail of 12 different oils that leave your skin supple, smooth and nourished (yet not oily). However the Luna’s claim to fame is the anti-aging retinoid. Retinoid is basically the easier, less irritating sister to retinol (and retinol is the only scientifically proven way to fight signs of aging). Now this oil shouldn’t irritate the skin, however you might notice some dryness to the skin. So you best believe me when I say the addition of 12 nourishing oils is a truly pleasant touch.

Good formula, good ingredients but the one thing I can’t get over is the addition blue dye. Sunday claims the colour of this product encourages users to massage the product deep in the skin. The more you work the product in the more translucent it gets (duh). In the addition while this isn’t intended to be a colour correcting product I like that the blue tint temporally evens out my skin tone. Now I am a total fan of facial massage and colour correcting anything, but I look at this added blue colouring as a marketing ploy. Blue, Luna, night time treatment… I the message it, but I just think it’s unnecessary. 

I am but wishy, washy with Luna, because at the core I do think Luna is an excellent product. However I also think that Luna is insanely expensive for what you get. Since retinoid’s are not a ground breaking technology you best believe you can get a decent retinoid at a fraction of the price (see my review for Avene’s retinoid here). Take what you will, I’ve been using Luna for well over a month and my bottle looks barely touched, it’s a beautiful luxury oil, but should you want to save some money you could definitely find cheaper alternatives. 

15ml/$62 

60ml/$131.00

Can be bought at sephora.com and in select stores. 

Rose Water Benefits

The season of love is here which means it’s officially of season of giving roses. Now you can either ask for a bouquet of roses, rose scented bath products or if you’re a skincare nut like me rose water. Jay if you’re reading this … hint, hint! If you don’t have a Valentine there is absolutely no shame in treating yourself because you’re going to need this and here’s why:

1. Rose water is an anti-inflammatory which means reduces redness and calms irritated skin.

2. Rose water is an anti-bacterial making an excellent, natural oil reducing product for acne prone skin types. 

3. Rose water is jammed packed with nutrients which help hydrate the skin. However since a spritz of rose water is so light it’s suitable for every skin type at any time of the day. 

4. The scent of rose has actually been scientifically proven to combat insomnia. In addition rose has also been used as an aroma therapy aid to help combat stress and tension. 

5. It’s cheap. With all these amazing skincare benefits I bet you were thinking ‘this is going to cost a fortune’, it doesn’t. You can actually get rose water from your local grocery store. Likewise you could always opt for a luxe rose water such as Herbivores Rose Hibiscus Coconut Water. 

Rose water can be used as a toner, to set makeup or misted on the go for a quick refresh. Since rose water is perfect for all skin types I seriously think everyone’s skincare regiment could benefit from a little rosewater. 

In Flight Essentials

The truth is it’s been years since of flown anywhere so I don’t want to come off as a globe-trotting blogger, because I’m actually the opposite. A homebody, working professional and mother of one, sweat pants wearing, top knot enthusiast…you get the picture. Back in the day I use to take the time to sprawl out, listen to music and pamper my skin. This flight is different because not only am I traveling with 18 family members I’m also traveling with a one year old. So lades (and gents) here are my in-flight must haves no faff, no pointlessness, no stupidity just easy to use essentials.  

Face Mist 

I’m sure we all know it by now, but I have a passion for face mists. I love that mists have toning, moisturizing and makeup setting qualities. However my favourite thing about all facial sprays is that they are instant and to me there is no better place for instant skincare then on a plane. Currently I am using (and loving) Pixi’s Milky Hydrating Mist and it works wonders when it comes to nourishing and repairing dry skin. The fact that this mist also soothes irritated sun kissed skin also makes it a handy beach bag item too.

Aroma Therapy 

I wouldn’t go as far as to say I am scarred of flying, but I would definitely consider myself as a nervous flyer. To combat my anxiety I always take some sort of aroma therapy oil with me. Typically I bring along lavender, however this trip I am bringing Saje’s Sleep Well Oil. This oil contains soothing chamomile, relaxing jasmine and balancing orange oil. It’s literally relaxation in a bottle. Just like the facial mist Saje’s Sleep Well can be applied in moment’s time. 

Big Scarf 

Car trips, train trips, plane trips… one of my all-time favourite travel essentials is a big scarf. The best thing about a big scarf is it acts a blanket on cold plane rides, but once you reach your destination it can be used as a shawl on cold nights. Typically I travel with a large poncho, however this time around I am traveling with my Lululemon Vinyasa scarf. I love that this scarf can be worn many different ways, the handy snaps also allow this scarf to be transformed into a handy cardigan too.   

Comfy Pants

In my opinion it takes a brave person that would want to travel in anything other than some sort of stretchy pants. I feel like this is common knowledge, but I thought I should put it out there; yoga pants, leggings, jogging pants are a MUST. 

Lip Balm

As we all know planes are extremely dry, and since traveling with a humidifier is frowned upon you'll notice a reoccurring hydration theme here. I am bringing two lip balms with me on this flight, one being Dior's hydrating, tinted lip balm Lip Glow and the other is the repairing and nourishing Sugar Advanced Therapy Lip Treatment. 

Face Mask

90% of the time I have easy going, normal skin. However if you put dryness into the equation my skin transforms to sensitive and eczema prone in an instant. So whenever I travel I without fail always bring an SOS skincare mask. For this trip I am bringing Laneige's Multiberry Yogurt Repairing Mask. While I've never tired this mask it claims to sooth irritated skin while delivering a huge does of hydration and nourishment. This mask is clear so should I forget to take it off I won't have mud stuck to my face upon landing. 

'Hi customs officer, no my face isn't normally purple... I just have a crying baby and dry skin' You get the picture. 

Well people this is my last post before I leave. I wish you all an excellent week and I have a new skincare tips post coming out on the 13th I'm super excited to share with you. So ladies/gents until next time!