Belletrist
Member Since: February 11, 2010Reviews
Juice Beauty GREEN APPLE Peel Full Strength Exfoliating Mask
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes. As a fan of alpha and beta hydroxy acids, I appreciate that the GREEN APPLE™ Peel mask utilizes both. This means not only exfoliating the skin of dead skin cells but also helping to... +
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes.
As a fan of alpha and beta hydroxy acids, I appreciate that the GREEN APPLE™ Peel mask utilizes both. This means not only exfoliating the skin of dead skin cells but also helping to minimize the appearance of fine lines.
The gel texture ensures for an easy, gliding application on the face and neck. There is a musky scent reminiscent of tart, acidic apples, but it’s tolerable overall. There is a definite tingling effect as the acids get to work, and you may feel your face or neck becoming hot or flushed.
My face looked red and scorched after the 10-minute period, but after washing off the mask, the redness disappeared within 30 minutes with no damage. I would advise applying this peel before bed and not before you have to leave the house soon after, as redness levels will vary from person to person.
After the redness vanished, I could see a slight difference in my skin texture, revealing a smoother surface and a gentle brightening. This mask will probably serve well for those with mild hyper-pigmentation, blackheads, and sebaceous filaments.
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Clarins Double Serum
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes. As far as serums go, Clarins Double Serum brings innovation to the table with its two-in-one formula, which you mix together in the sachet. The result is a mixture of a slightly oily... +
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes.
As far as serums go, Clarins Double Serum brings innovation to the table with its two-in-one formula, which you mix together in the sachet. The result is a mixture of a slightly oily emulsion that soothes the skin during application. Despite the serum’s consistency, the skin doesn’t feel greasy after treatment.
It absorbs fairly quickly into the skin, so you don’t have to wait long to apply moisturizer on top. There is a slight floral scent, so those with scent sensitivities may wish to take this into consideration. But it doesn't linger on the skin for long.
The addition of turmeric helps to brighten up a dull complexion, while plant extracts assist to create a softly radiant base. After seven days of usage, I observed how soft my skin felt and how uniform it appeared, helping to create a youthful exterior.
As far as anti-aging skin routines go, the Clarins Double Serum deserves a spot as a strong contender.
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NYX Professional Makeup 2-in-1 Liner & Lash Adhesive
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes. As far as eyeliners go, the NYX Professional Makeup 2-in-1 Liner & Lash Adhesive goes beyond simple colour by also multitasking as an adhesive for when you want to wear false... +
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes.
As far as eyeliners go, the NYX Professional Makeup 2-in-1 Liner & Lash Adhesive goes beyond simple colour by also multitasking as an adhesive for when you want to wear false eyelashes.
I found its pointed tip was ideal for achieving a sharp winged eyeliner or even for outlining the inner eye corners. It didn’t smudge or smear, so I did not have to reapply throughout the day. That said, the liner is slightly tacky, so be mindful when applying it and removing it afterward.
This eyeliner is also beneficial for tightlining under the eyelashes to give fuller coverage and to help conceal the lash line when wearing in conjunction with false eyelashes. The tip is perfect for filling in any little spots, so the lash line really does appear plush.
While I first used it as a gentle adhesive when wearing false eyelashes, I think I will probably use it as an eyeliner alone for its deep pigment and long-lasting staying power.
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NYX Professional Makeup Jumbo Lash! Vegan False Lashes
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes. Having never worn false eyelashes before, I was certainly curious about the effect of NYX Professional Makeup Jumbo Lash! Vegan False Lashes. Applying them wasn't as difficult as I... +
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes.
Having never worn false eyelashes before, I was certainly curious about the effect of NYX Professional Makeup Jumbo Lash! Vegan False Lashes. Applying them wasn't as difficult as I anticipated, so they are "user friendly" where newbies are concerned. There is no glue involved, so that simplified the process for me tremendously.
I did find that because they are designed to be glamorous, they looked a bit off and unnatural on me until I reapplied them after doing my eye makeup. Then I felt I had the desired effect when they were framed nicely by eyeshadow, eyeliner, and eyebrow pencil. In that regard, I recommend at least some eye makeup when wearing this particular model; otherwise, it will be obvious you are wearing falsies.
The lashes themselves are silky and soft, and their natural curl helps to give a lifted appearance to the eye, especially at the outer corners. In some instances, they could pass for eyelashes extensions, particularly if slightly trimmed.
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Essie expressie - Now or Never
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes. As a fan of essie nail polishes, the expressie Quick-Dry Nail Polish fits right into my beauty care program. The colour is highly pigmented, so one coat was enough for me for ultimate... +
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes.
As a fan of essie nail polishes, the expressie Quick-Dry Nail Polish fits right into my beauty care program.
The colour is highly pigmented, so one coat was enough for me for ultimate coverage. Also, I wasn’t expecting to like the colour because it’s so dark and not in my usual range of polishes. However, I found that its glossy formula gave my nails a shine that made the colour look fresh and modern.
As the name suggests, the polish really does dry quickly. I found that my nails were fully ready in about three minutes, up to the point where I could now use my hands to get dressed, put on shoes, etc. This formula is truly designed for those who are seriously on the go. If you have had those days where you had needed to have left your house five minutes ago for that social event, but your hands still aren’t ready, then this nail polish is designed for you in mind.
Plus, its vegan formula and lack of not-so-ideal ingredients, such as formaldehyde, mean you can feel good applying this polish with your health and social consciousness in mind.
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Maybelline New York Super Stay Vinyl Ink Longwear Liquid Lipcolor
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes. First and foremost: Yes, the staying power of this lip colour is indeed impressive. I ate and drank with this on and the colour only faded slightly in tone, not shade (a bit less... +
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes.
First and foremost: Yes, the staying power of this lip colour is indeed impressive. I ate and drank with this on and the colour only faded slightly in tone, not shade (a bit less glossy).
It's slightly scented and smells delicious, which makes layering all the more an appealing process. However, you may only need one application like I did because it is heavily pigmented. Hence, a little goes a long way or you might find the colour too much.
Indeed, the second time I wore this, I blotted to make the colour more harmonious with my fair skin tone. I found that it also works well as a lip stain if you want a more natural look or are going for the "clean girl" aesthetic.
The brush is angled for better coverage and to cover corners and the cupid’s bow more efficiently, which I appreciated. I would be interested in looking at the other lip colours available as well.
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Shu Uemura Ultime8 Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes. Having never used a cleansing oil before, it was a novel experience using the Shu Uemura Ultime8∞ Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil. Unlike traditional cleansers, this one is oil-based and... +
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes.
Having never used a cleansing oil before, it was a novel experience using the Shu Uemura Ultime8∞ Sublime Beauty Cleansing Oil. Unlike traditional cleansers, this one is oil-based and works to remove makeup and typical dirt and debris that collects on the face throughout the day.
The oil is clear and has a silky feel. The scent is delicate but noticeable, so those with scent sensitivities may need to take this into consideration.
A few drops were enough to cover the whole face and neck; a little added water helped to create a soft lather for better coverage. After rinsing, my skin felt soft and supple with visible hydration. It’s a vast benefit, as I do not like it when cleansers leave the skin feeling tight and parched, even as the skin is thoroughly cleaned.
I have not used this product in conjunction with a double-cleanse, so I cannot comment on its efficacy. However, my makeup was removed without issue the first time, so I did not need to do a second cleanse with any other foaming face wash.
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FLAWLESS FACIAL HAIR REMOVER, BLUSH
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes. As someone who utilizes facial hair removal products, the Finishing Touch Flawless Facial Hair Remover is a gem in its department. It’s not quite like a razor because it’s better in... +
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes.
As someone who utilizes facial hair removal products, the Finishing Touch Flawless Facial Hair Remover is a gem in its department. It’s not quite like a razor because it’s better in most ways, eliminating the need for water or shaving cream.
Operating the Finishing Touch Flawless device is very simple, with a literal flick of a switch. Instead of operating it like a razor, I do small sweeping circles around the area where I want hair removed, such as the chin and sideburns.
I haven’t used it on any other parts of the body barring the face, so I cannot comment as to its efficiency as a full body device. But as a facial device, I feel it works beautifully. Hair is shaved down closely and smoothly; you don’t feel any stubble. I can apply makeup or skin care products immediately without concern for cuts or rashes/burns.
The device is portable and easy to store in your purse if needed, which means you can carry it with you wherever you go.
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Batiste Light Scent Green Tea & Chamomile Dry Shampoo
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes. Dry shampoo is just one of those staples that comes to the rescue when we need our hair looking and feeling refreshed. Enter Batiste Light Scent Green Tea & Chamomile dry shampoo... +
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes.
Dry shampoo is just one of those staples that comes to the rescue when we need our hair looking and feeling refreshed. Enter Batiste Light Scent Green Tea & Chamomile dry shampoo, designed to refresh your locks and make your hair look and smell clean.
It’s vegan and you don’t have to rinse or towel dry after application. The spray can makes it easy to apply where you need it the most, such as the back of the head and by the ears. When the weather had been especially hot, it was a real game-changer in having this spray available each day, as a light application helped to absorb excess grease from the scalp without having to wash my hair every day.
The spray strength is strong, so I only need a little at a time. The scent is floral but rather strong, so those with scent sensitivities may need to take this factor into account. One application helped keep my hair looking good for approximately 13 hours, so I didn’t need to reapply multiple times a day.
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COVERGIRL Simply Ageless Lash Plumping Mascara
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes. As mascara is one of my favourite makeup products, the Simply Ageless Lash Plumping Mascara is a good staple to add to my makeup collection. This product is unique in acting as a primer... +
I received this product complimentary for testing purposes.
As mascara is one of my favourite makeup products, the Simply Ageless Lash Plumping Mascara is a good staple to add to my makeup collection. This product is unique in acting as a primer, serum, and mascara in one. It certainly helps to simplify the process for better-looking eyelashes.
The curved brush allows for application even for those tiny inner-corner lashes. There is no scent, and the formula is lightweight, not thick. This means less goop on the brush, and it ensures I can control the buildup with how many layers I see fit.
While I didn’t find that the mascara plumps or volumizes the lashes, I do believe it’s is useful for when you want your makeup to be tastefully understated. Added definition and colour merits a clean, refined look when you don’t want exaggeration. In addition, if you wear mascara every day, this one will be more beneficial in the long-term to ensure your eyelashes stay a bit healthier, as its composition includes bamboo serum and hyaluronic complex.
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