Tony Moly Banana Cream Foam Cleanser: Review

Packaging:

Comes in a yellow plastic squeeze bottle

Contains 150 ml of product

Retails for $10-$15 (depending on where purchased)

ULTA currently has them for $11.60 

Formulation:

Banana cleansers are very popular in Asian skincare and has only begun to touch the surface here in the states. Banana extract has properties that help eliminate dirt and other wastes from the skin's surface. Think of it as a natural exfoliate without the harsh beads that most exfoliates have these days. This cleanser also contains honey which not only moisturizes your skin but also contains anti-bacteria properties to keep your skin nice and clean. While this cleanser does contain natural ingredients such as banana and honey, it is not 100% natural. It has your typical skin cleanser ingredients that you would see almost everywhere these days.

The texture is a cross between a cream and a gel like consistency. It feels very smooth on the skin and foams up pretty nicely. I was surprised at how much I liked this stuff. It cleanses the skin very well even on days where I am wearing heavy makeup. It does feel a little drying right afterwards but not to the point where I feel my skin is cracking. It works well with steam in the shower, opening up any pores and also works with cold water in the morning to help wake you up. 

I have very sensitive acne prone skin and after using this for about 2 weeks, not only my skin has cleared up I haven't had any breakouts. I would say that this cleanser would work on a lot of different types of skin. Remember everyone's skin is different, what works for one person may not necessarily work for another. When it comes to skincare it is all about trial and error.

The cleanser has a very potent scent which reminded me of banana popsicles I used to eat as a child. It also has an acetone scent to it when applied on the skin. I personally didn't mind the scent but for those of you out there who hate or can't handle strong scents I don't recommend this cleanser for you.

Overall

4.8/5

  

Review: Pixi Glow Tonic

PACKAGING: 

-Comes in a small plastic bottle

-Contains 100 ml (small bottle $15)

There is a slightly bigger size I think around 300 ml for $25 but I haven't seen it in stores (can purchase online)

Available @ Target (exclusive)

OR

Pixi Online 

FORMULATION:

Pixi Glow Tonic is a glycolic acid based facial toner (5%). Glycolic acid is a natural substance that comes from sugar cane. It is known for its exfoliating powers on the skin. It can also help with anti aging skin problems as well as correct discoloration and tighten the surface of the skin. 

Along with glycolic acid, Pixi Glow Tonic also contains aloe and ginseng. This product is designed to  exfoliate the skin without any harsh chemicals or beads. It contains no alcohol so for those of you who are worried about this toner stripping the moisture out of your skin fear not. It is best applied with a cotton round all over the face after cleansing. It leaves the skin soft and smooth and makes applying moisturizer or makeup flawlessly. 

For those of you weary of scents beware that this toner does have a heavy scent. It isn't anything too terrible. A combination of roses and the woodsy outdoors. 

I have been using this product for about 2 weeks now and I gotta say how surprised I was with this. The Pixi Glow Tonic is very well known over in the UK and has recently just came to the states. I can definitely see what all the rage has been about. I haven't had any breakouts and the breakouts I did have before using this product has disappeared completely. I have extremely sensitive skin so not breaking out for 2 weeks is a huge win for me. However my skin does react well with glycolic acid. I have used products in the past that contain this and have had stellar results. I suggest testing your skin out with a product that has less glycolic acid in it before trying this out. 

I am not a dermatologist this review is 100% my experience with this product. I do think this product could work on a variety of skin types but remember we all have different skin and will react differently compared to each other. So always do a little research on your skin before trying out anything new.

XOXO

OVERALL:

5/5

Review: Shiseido IBUKI Softening Concentrate Lotion

Shisedio IBUKI Softening Concentrate Lotion

PACKAGING:

The product comes in a hard plastic see through bottle with a plastic pump. The bottle is very simple and beautiful like with most Shisedio products. I wasn't a fan of the pump. It isn't very sturdy and pumps out way too much product.

-Contains 2.5 fl oz of product (one size)

-Available at Shisedio counters and Sephora

-Retails for $24 (However depending on where you are and where you purchase this product prices are subject to change)

FORMULATION:

I have always been a huge fan of Shisedo skincare products (my favorite product from them is their sunscreen). They create beautiful and pure products that work with pretty much every skin type out there. 

The Softening Concentrate Lotion is designed to help moisture the skin for a softer and smoother feel. This is what I like to call a "supplement product" meaning that it is meant to be worn with other products. I have super dry skin and when I wore this alone without a moisturizer it felt a little too dry for my taste but worn with it gave my moisturizer an extra kick (works with oily skin as well). As per the instructions this product works best applied right after your cleanse your skin (I highly recommend you follow this instruction, do not apply anything else until after you put this on otherwise the product will not sink in as fast and won't work its maximum potential). It is a serum like consistency that sinks super fast into your skin. My skin immediately felt softer and smoother. It does have a very strong floral perfume scent but does fade (not completely) as you wear it. If you are sensitive to scents I don't recommend this product. This product isn't designed to replace your daily moisturizer or serum. It is best worn in the evening before bed to help it work properly.

OVERALL

4.8/6

NEW!!! COOLA SPF 30 Makeup Setting Spray

PACKAGING:

-Comes in a plastic spray bottle (Very sturdy)

-Contains 1.7 oz of product (TSA APPROVED)

-Retails for $36.00 @ULTA as well as COOLA online.

FORMULATION:

COOLA is a fairly new brand to the skincare market. They are well known for their great smelling sun care products. All their products are eco-friendly, natural, organic, and sustainable. A very refreshing change to the world of skincare products. Not only good for you but for the world as well.

Recently they have expanded their venture towards the cosmetics industry with their SPF 30 Makeup Setting Spray. This is the first organic SPF makeup setting spray on the market and with summer right around the corner this is a perfect product to go pick up.

This product doesn't really need an explanation it basically is what it says to be... a makeup setting spray. But for those out there who are not as familiar with makeup setting sprays all they are is a liquid that helps your makeup adhere to your skin for a longer period of time. It is really great for those who wear foundation but don't like the feeling of powder in order to set their makeup. The COOLA SPF 30 Makeup Setting not only sets your makeup but also contains green tea and aloe to provide nourishment and also help with sunburns on your skin. It also contains hyaluronic acid which helps moisturize your skin. It sets matte and is completely weightless. It does have a sunscreen smell right after you spray it however that fades and a more delightful refreshing scent sets in. You can use it before or after your makeup routine as well as taking it on the go for quick fixes throughout the day. You can also just use it as a spray sunscreen for your face no makeup necessary. This is a great product to have in your purse or beach bag this summer.

The only downside to this product is that it is quite pricey for a sunscreen and the packaging is pretty bulky for the amount of product it contains. 

Great for all skin types

Cera Ve Moisturizer Review + Update

Hey guys, long time no chat! I apologize for not posting as frequently as I normally do. My life has been taken over by finals and projects these last few weeks. For those of you who don't know I am currently in grad school pursing a master's degree in Rehabilitation and Mental Counseling. This is my first semester so I am just beginning to get in the swing of things (I took a year off after college due to health issues). Hopefully within the next couple of months I will have a schedule set out for everything. 

But anyways... I wanted to give you guys a little review on a product that I have been loving! Lately my skin has been acting up again due to weather changes and I needed and wanted to get a new moisturizer For me personally, when it comes to moisturizers I don't think it is necessary to spend a ton of money on one since it is one of those skincare products that runs out really fast. So I looked around my local CVS and decided to try the Cera Ve Moisturizing Cream.

PACKAGING:

Comes in a GIANT TUB like seriously one of the largest packagings I have ever seen for a moisturizer (16 oz).

FORMULATION:

This particular moisturizer is designed for normal to dry skin. The texture isn't too thick or thin and feels really light on the skin. You can use it as either a facial or body moisturizer. It contains hyaluronic acid which hydrates and moisturizers the skin and ceramides which are lipids that hold the skin surface together (this is a naturally occurring compound in your skin). It is a great day moisturizer layered with a SPF of course and on its own as an evening moisturizer. You can also mix it into your foundation to create a light tinted moisturizer. 

You can buy this at any drugstore near you as well as Targets and Wal-Marts. It retails for around $9-$12 depending on where you purchase it. It is a bit expensive for a drugstore moisturizer 

Current Skincare Routine Spring/Summer 2015

Disclaimer: I am in no ways a skin care expert. This is just what works for me every one's skin is different. If you have any concerns pertaining to your skin please consult with a dermatologist.

A little about my skin...
-Combination: Oily in the t-zone (forehead and down the nose) Dry everywhere else
-Acne Prone
-Sensitive

Cleanser:

Philosophy Purity Made Simple $11-$20

One of my favorite facial cleansers of all time. I tend to go back to this product a lot throughout the year especially if my skin starts to act up. It is super gentle but tough on oil, makeup and other skin residue. It also has a nice refreshing scent that isn't overpowering. Great for all skin types.

Moisturizer:

Trader Joe's Enrich Moisturizing Face Lotion SPF 15 (Day) $5.99

Yes, Trader Joe's sells skincare items and they are actually pretty awesome. I was just as surprised as some of you out there. Their Enrich moisturizer is a great for the day. It contains SPF 15 and isn't greasy or heavy. Great for normal to oily skin as well as sensitive. I don't recommend this for super dry skin. 

Kiehl's Ultra Facial Cream  (Evening) $26.50

You don't have to use a different moisturizer for the day and evening this is just something I prefer. I don't like to wear SPF in the evening and I like something a little more heavier at night. Kiehl's always makes great stuff and this is no exception. The Ultra Facial Cream is very moisturizing but doesn't weigh down your skin. This one is for dry skin but they do have for normal and oily skin.

Serum:

Lancôme Visionnaire $79

Serums are a big thing in Asia and has recently become a big thing here in the states. Serums are concentrated moisturizers that contain vitamins and minerals. The texture allows for all the vitamins and minerals to sink in and makes it easier for the skin to absorb. This particular one by Lancome is amazing. It makes my skin super soft and helps keep my pores at bay. It also contains anti aging ingredients. It is never too early to start using anti aging products as a preventive measure. I like to use this product in the evening right before I apply my moisturizer.

Eye Cream:

Mario Badescu Ceramide Eye Cream $18

Eye creams are an essential product when it comes to skincare. The skin under your eyes are very delicate and needs its own product. This eye cream contains antioxidant rich Rose Hip oil that help reduce wrinkles and bags. It is a very thick eye cream a little goes a long way. Another added bonus it smells really good. 

And last but not least...

Lip care:

Dior Creme de Rose Lip Balm $28

This stuff is ridiculously expensive for a lip balm but so worth the money. It gives the lips a smooth and plump look while moisturizing AND also contains SPF 10. I like to apply this both day and night. O I almost forgot this stuff smells AMAZEBALLS that is if you like the smell of roses. 

Tips For Long Lasting Makeup

With the hot summer season coming up what better time to talk about some tips to keep you looking your best despite the hot weather. 

TIP #1 

Prep your skin

Before any makeup application takes place make sure you prep your skin (cleanse, moisturizer and exfoliate) so that your makeup applies effortlessly. Prepping your skin can also help your makeup adhere better to your skin.

Product Suggestions:

Cleanser- Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser 

Exfoliator- St. Ives Apricot Scrub

Moisturizer- First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Pure Mineral Sunscreen Moisturizer SPF 40

TIP #2 

Primer

This is a step that many of us out there often skip, but when we want our makeup to last especially during hot weather it is super IMPORTANT to apply primer. Primer is a product that creates a barrier between your skin and your makeup. It creates a nice smooth and even layer for your makeup. It also helps your makeup last longer so you don't have worry about touchups throughout the day.

Product Suggestions: 

Maybelline Master Prime

Smashbox Photo Finish 

TIP #3

Look for waterproof or water resistant makeup

This one is a no brainer. A lot of beauty brands out there today have added tons of waterproof/water resistant makeup to their line. Today we have everything from waterproof foundation to waterproof eyeshadow and mascara. For mascara go for something waterproof and for any other makeup go for water resistant (this makes it easier to take off later on). 

Product Suggestions:

Foundation- Makeup Forever Face & Body Foundation

Mascara- Urban Decay Cannonball

Bronzer- Hourglass Waterproof Bronzer

TIP #4

Setting Spray

Probably one of the best beauty inventions ever, setting sprays have become very popular in the beauty world and is a go- to product for all the celebrities and celebrity makeup artists out there today. A setting spray locks in your makeup without any creasing which powders can cause if you touchup throughout the day. It also refreshes your skin.

Product Suggestions: 

Skindinavia Setting Sprays

Urban Decay De-Slick Setting Spray (For Oily Skin)

Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray (For Normal to Dry Skin)

TIP #5

Keep it Light

Try to go for lighter makeup on hot days rather than heavy makeup which can crease and drip. Not to mention lighter makeup looks and feels better on your skin. 

Tips for Flawless Looking Skin

With spring here and summer just around the corner it is time to kick our skincare in high gear and get that flawless looking skin! 

TIP #1 DRINK LOTS OF WATER

This one is a no brainer and a lot of you out there are either already doing it or know a little something about it.  Drinking lots of water not only keeps your body hydrated but flushes out unwanted toxins in your body which can damage your skin. It is recommended to drink at least 6-8 glasses of water a day ranging from 8-16 ox per glass depending on how much you can handle. I usually try to get in at least a gallon a day give or take and my skin not only looks better but I feel better because of it. If you don't really like to drink water or just get bored from it infuse your water with fruits like lemons, limes, berries and cucumbers. Try to stay away from the flavor waters at the store as they tend to contain chemicals and unnatural flavorings that are not so good for you.  

TIP #2 CLEANSE, CLEANSE,  CLEANSE 

As women we all have those days where we just wanna skip washing our faces and just dive into bed with our makeup on. I have been guilty of doing it on several occasions and every time it has had backfired. So no matter how tired or lazy you might be WASH YO FACE!!! Besides the makeup dirt does build on your skin throughout the day especially if you go outside your home. By not cleansing your skin all that makeup, dirt and oil will get trapped and form bacteria that can cause breakouts, acne and so forth. It is okay once in awhile to use just the facial cloths to cleanse the skin on those days where you can't barely function but don't take it for granted... 

TIP #3 WATCH WHAT YOU EAT

The phrase beauty from within is very relevant when it comes to our skin. In order to look and feel good about ourselves on the outside we must look and feel good inside. Let's be honest, eating healthy is HARD but not impossible to accomplish. It is all about achieving and maintaining balance and listening to your body. Try to stick with lean protein like chicken or fish, fruits and of course veggies. Avoid foods that are too processed and high in unhealthy fats and calories. And of course don't be afraid to indulge every once in awhile. If your body is craving that seven layer chocolate cake then go for it! As long as you are not eating chocolate cake everyday for your meals you are fine. Food deprivation can only lead to bad eating habits which in turn can make you look and feel horrible. Life is short so enjoy it. 

TIP #4 EASY ON THE MAKEUP

Makeup is awesome! I LOVE LOVE LOVE makeup but wearing globs of it everyday doesn't do anyone any good. Makeup shouldn't be used to hide our imperfections but rather enhance them because it what makes you well YOU. Try to keep your makeup routine to a minimal on an everyday basis and go all out for special occasions and don't forget to take days off and just let your skin breathe. 

TIP #5 WEAR SPF

Growing up our moms always chased us around telling us to put on our sunscreen. Well if your mom did that go and send her a gigantic gift basket. SPF not only protects your skin from UVA/UVB rays which can cause skin cancer it also protects your skin from free radicals, premature aging and wrinkles, and sun spots. Even when it is cold outside sun rays can still penetrate the skin so wear SPF EVERY SINGLE DAY for as long as you live.  To make it easier to remember to put on everyday buy a day moisturizer that already contains a SPF. (Try to find a SPF 15 or higher) 

Book Review- BLOGTOBER OCTOBER 28, 2014

Make Up: Your Life Guide to Beauty Style and Success- Online and Off

Michelle Phan

It is amazing how something simple as making a makeup tutorial and putting it up on YouTube can lead to such success. Today the most well known YouTubers are making 6 figure salaries. Honestly why am I even bothering applying to graduate school?

One of the top successes in YouTube world today and also the one that pretty much started it all is the one and only Michelle Phan. This woman has generated millions of subscribers and growing continuously each day. She has an average of 1,000,000+ views PER VIDEO. She is not only a YouTube guru but also has her own businesses like IPSY (monthly beauty subscription service), her own makeup line (em cosmetics) and now she is adding author to her amazing resume. In her book Make Up, Michelle talks about her own personal struggles she experienced growing up making the woman she is today. She offers great advice and tips from beauty to skincare to even basic etiquette. It is basically a life guide for the daily woman in a modern world.

Michelle's never give up attitude and ambition is such an inspiration. I recommend this book to anyone not just as a fun read but just a little pick me up on those dark days where nothing in our lives seem to make sense.

You can purchase Michelle's book at booksellers in-store and online nationwide.

Get to Know Me: Skincare Tag- BLOGTOBER OCTOBER 16, 2014

SKINCARE TAG

-How many times do you wash your face daily?

2 Times (Once in the morning and once in the evening)

-What skin type do you have? (dry,oily,combo)

Dry, sensitive, & acne prone

-What is your current facial wash?

Neutrogena Pink Grapefruit Acne Facial Cleanser (Morning)

Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser (Evening)

-Do you exfoliate?

Yes

-What brand do you use?

Mario Badescu

-What moisturizer do you use?

Mario Badescu Ginseng Moist Cream (Morning)

Vaseline Deep Moisture (Evening)

-Do you have freckles?

Nope

-Do you use eye cream?

Yes

-Do you or did you have acne prone skin?

Yes

-Did you ever have to use Pro-activ?

Yes once and it almost completely destroyed my skin...

Evening Skincare Routine- BLOGTOBER OCTOBER 13,2014

EVENING SKINCARE ROUTINE FALL/WINTER EDITION

Hello again and welcome to part 2 of my skincare routine for fall/winter 2014.

Enjoy! XOXO

All products mentioned are available @ drugstores, Targets & Wal-Marts unless otherwise specified.

From Left to Right: Pond's Cold Cream Cleanser, Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser, Vaseline Deep Moisture, Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner, Equate Eye Makeup Remover, Mario Badescu Anti Acne Serum & Rose Hips Nourishing Oil

From Left to Right:
Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser $9- This is a classic product in skincare history. It is a simple facial cleanser for all skin types (they have different cleansers for different skin types but overall similar product) that deep cleanses and keeping your skin nice and fresh. There isn't any bad chemicals and super gentle. I like to use this at night because of my acne treatment this cleanser won't strip my skin.

Mario Badescu Glycolic Acid Toner $18 (Ulta)- This is an amazing product not only it cleanses your skin it is also an exfoliate that helps with uneven skin tone and very effective for super dull, dry & sensitive skin. I use this with a cotton pad and just pat is all over my face. I do recommend only using this once a day. Glycolic Acid has different effects on different people and some have had reactions to it during long term use. So adjust accordingly to your skin needs. 

Vaseline Deep Moisture $4- My mother first introduced me to this product this past month and at first I was very skeptical about it. I am not a fan of petroleum jelly especially on my face but my skin was particularly very dry one day and my mother told me to try is and BOOM I fell in love. This product is super moisturizing and actually penetrates the skin. It is a bit greasy and heavy but nothing uncomfortable. It is better to use at night.

Left
Mario Badescu Anti Acne Serum $20 (Ulta)- This is a product that I have recently started using this year. My acne for some reason decided to come back and haunt me. This stuff is pure gold. After 2 days I immediately saw a difference. My breakouts had calmed down and my pimples were less visible. It contains salicylic acid along with thyme and other natural herbs. A bonus this stuff does not sting the sh** out of you.

Right
Mario Badescu Rose Hips Nourishing Oil $20 (Ulta)- I always had super dry skin  and it has gotten worse this time around for some reason. This product has become a holy grail item in my skin care. I like to mix it in with my moisturizer and it just adds another layer of moisturizer and rose hips are really great at calming redness. It is more of a watery consistency rather than an oil. 

Miscellaneous

These are products that I use on days when I have makeup to take off.

Pond's Cold Cream Cleanser (LEFT) $5- This is an oldie but a goodie. And when I mean an oldie this stuff has literally been around since our grandmothers and great-grandmothers. This was the classic way women had removed their makeup back then and is still very effective today. I put it on my skin dry and rub it in and wash off. It removes everything to waterproof mascara. Plus it smells amazing. It also works as a great brush cleanser (2 in 1 product!!!). O and did I mention that this stuff is super cheap!

Equate Eye Makeup Remover (RIGHT) $4- This is the Wal-Mart knockoff of the Neutrogena Eye Makeup Remover but somehow works 10x better for 1/2 the price. This stuff dissolves the toughest waterproof makeup out there.

Morning Skincare Routine- BLOGTOBER OCTOBER 12, 2014

MORNING SKINCARE ROUTINE: FALL/WINTER EDITION

Welcome to my fall/winter skincare routine 2014 edition. I change my skin care  every 2 seasons or depending on how my skin is acting. This is my current skincare for the morning. I am by no means a skin expert nor I pretend to be this is just what works for me.Please always consult a professional if needed.All of these products can be purchased at your local drugstores or Targets/Wal-Marts with the exception of a few.

(I have super dry, sensitive, acne prone skin.)

Far Left: Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Facial Cleanser
Front Left: Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Face Suncreen SPF 30
Far Right: Neutrogena Alcohol- Free Toner
Front Right: Mario Badescu Ceramide Herbal Eye Cream (Top) & Mario Badescu Ginseng Moist Cream (Bottom)
Front: White Cloud Cotton Rounds

Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash Pink Grapefruit Facial Cleanser $7 
Waking up can be a hassle especially if you are not a morning person like me. So the first thing I like to do in the morning to wake myself up a bit is to wash my face. I always tend to get breakouts during the colder season so I like to use an anti-acne facial cleanser. This particular one by Neutrogena is gentle enough to use everyday and contains 2% Salicylic Acid to help keep my breakouts at bay. It also has an AMAZING grapefruit scent that helps you wake up.

Neutrogena Alcohol- Free Toner $6
After cleansing my face, I like to go over my skin with a toner. The toner not only gets rid of gunk that may have not washed off but also refreshes your skin. I like to use this one in the morning because not only it's refreshing it doesn't dry out my skin thanks to no alcohol. 

Mario Badescu Ginseng Moist Cream & Ceramide Eye Cream Both $18 each (Available @Ulta (online and in-store) or Mario Badescu online)
It is super important to always moisturizer your skin no matter what!!! This Ginseng Cream by Mario Badescu is super moisturizing but not heavy at all! Ginseng has anti wrinkle properties as well as helps heal and calm irritated skin.

The Ceramide Eye Cream is also pretty amazing (I did a separate review on this). It is super thick but like the moisturizer it is not heavy and can works either alone or under makeup (makes applying concealer effortlessly). I also use this eye cream @night. 

Left: Ginseng Moist Cream
Right: Ceramide Eye Cream

Hawaiian Tropic Silk Hydration Face Suncreen SPF 30 $10
And of course you can never forget your SPF. I can't stress enough how essential it is to include some type of SPF in your skincare routine. It not only protects you from UVA/UVB rays which can cause skin cancer but it also helps prevent premature aging, sagging, sun spots and more. This one has a nice coconut scent to it and is actually very moisturizing on its own. I like to put this on top my moisturizer.

White Cloud Cotton Pads $5 for 300 (100 per pack 3 packs total)
I like to use this for my toners as well as removing makeup. You can get this at Wal-Mart for $5 for a pack of 300.