2015 Beauty Favorites!

Hi there! I am here wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! It's been a while since I last updated something. 19 days to be exact! Fuhh, that's long! Well, I am back now! For good, and since it's going to be a new year soon. I've promised myself to commit more on blogging. Cause in the end of the day, that's what bring me joy! Seeing others, enjoying my posts. 

Well, since its been a while. I thought this post, would be a great idea to round up my year. And soon, we could start blogging on new interesting things. Right? This post will be a special on my Beauty Favorites in the year 2015. BOY, don't I have many. If I were to put them all in one post, it would probably be, 3 times longer! And so, I decided to narrow it down to only 3! 3 beauty favorites, I drag with me all year long! Let's get started shall we?

                                                                         

Seaweed Clarifying Toner by The Body Shop

First favorite, Seaweed Clarifying Toner by The Body Shop. My oh my! This is AMAZING! I've never fell so hard and deeply in love with a face toner. To be honest, this is the first time a toner leaves me feeling this way! I mentioned this product before in my "August 15' Favorites" my thoughts on this has never changed! This retail at RM 55 on 200ml! Worth the purchase, if you are combo skin like me. TRUST ME!

Catrice Eyebrow Filler

Favorite number two. *Drumrolls! This one, I cannot live without, second purchased on this. An Eyebrow Filler by Catrice Cosmetics. Catrice The color of it, is a bit ashy for my eyebrows. But I however love the effect it leaves my eyebrows! It sets my brows, and the color of it would stay in even better with this! What's not to love right? Retail at only, RM 16.90 at any of the nearest Guardian to you!

 

Clean on Me, by Soap & Glory

Third favorite, I don't know where to begin with on this one. I mean, save the best for last right? This is my definite holy grail. I cannot live without this baby for even a day, Whatever I do, I would at least use this once in a day. if you're wondering, yes I do have them in travelling size as well. EVERYWHERE & ANYTIME! I started using this, this year. However with even, other body wash being there in my shower. There's always a bottle of this in there, This is my fourth bottle this year! The scent, is actually from the Original Pink range. Which I LOVE! I don't know if you know, but I can never deny sweetness! Hope you you could understand, how I enjoy this, and still is obsessed with this baby! This retail at RM 55 in 500ml.

There you have it guys, my Top 3, 2015 Beauty Favorites! Tried to keep it as simple as I could, hope you enjoy it! HAPPY NEW YEAR! 

Love, 

Aleen Abdollah

Perfect Cleansing Water Make Up Remover by Biore' Review

Perfect Cleansing Water Makeup Remover by Biore

Hello there, before we begin, I would like to say, that I have been a fan of Biore's Make Up Remover for a long time. But never had the chance to try the one in "Cleansing Water". After a couple of weeks, using this. I must say, there's more cons than pros using this. Keep on reading, and I'll tell you why. I don't know if you are aware, but I've had a post on one of my favorite make up remover which is also from Biore, in the form of Cleansing OIL. (Picture below)

Cleansing Oil Make Up Remover by Biore

Now, the cleansing oil. I love so much! All I had to do, is pump 2 - 3 times and rub it all over my face to get the make up out and rinse right after. Simple as that. The bottle only cost about RM 19.80. Now keep that in mind and let's get back to the one I'm actually reviewing today, which is again the Cleansing Oil. Okay, I will attach pictures of me actually using it. With full make up, until I have nothing on. Shall we?

1. Now this is when, I still have my make up on at the end of the day.

2. Following instructions, *pump an appropriate amount on cotton and gently wipe off with no scrubbing*

 3. I don't know if you could tell, but that's what I got off my left eyelid. As an experiment. First impression I thought, "ey not bad".

 4. I know this is disgusting, but with four in total cotton pads of Cleansing Water were the amount that I need to remove all the make up I had on my face. 

5. And Wa-lah! My face is now make up free! 

Not bad right? That's what I thought at first. However, this bottle of 300ml cost RM 28.80 whereas the Cleansing OIL cost RM 19.80 that's more or less RM 10 difference. AND, to top it up, I needed cotton pads for this, also instead of just 2 -3 pumps to get all my make up off. I needed like 15 pumps using the cleansing water, Which I thought is a bit of a waste. Overall, as much as it works. I'd still prefer the Cleansing OIL by Biore. Let me know, if you agree! 

Hope you enjoy this random, review!

Xx,

Aleen Abdollah

My Lipstick Collection by Shifa' Azham

Hello all! 

Finally I had the time to actually sit down and write a blogpost for Aleen. Hehe. Well, actually I stalled on the idea for a while because firstly, I preferred to lie down and scroll endlessly on Twitter and secondly, reading her posts seemed more fun than writing my own. 

So I would like to share with you guys my lipstick collection! It's not a big collection but it's enough to fit my small make up organizer, which is good enough for me. 

L-R : Kissproof 012, Kissproof 016, Silky Girl's Moisture Boost in Ruby, Nyx's Soft Matte Lip Cream in Antwerp, 

Silky Girl's Go Matte Lipcolour in Nearly Nude, Silky Girl's Moisture Smooth in Sunny Rose, 

Nyx's Soft Matte Lip Cream in Athens, Kissproof 005, Kissproof 011

See, there aren't many but these are my strengths that gets me through the day. I have phases where I would wear dark lipsticks religiously for months then wear only my lipbalm, followed by another few months of wearing nude lipsticks. 

Right now I'm between wearing the Kissproof 016, which is in a nice coral-pink colour, and making it into an ombre lip colour by adding the Nyx's Athens's lipstick in the middle of my lips. They usually complement my make-up look for work and it's the one I'm just really into currently.

The Kissproof Gang

I am super positive that I may be the only one who has had no trouble wearing these. I've had read some reviews saying that they sort of cake on the lips, causing the colours to sort of clump together when you press your lips to distribute the colours, but so far the most that I have had trouble with them is that they chip when you place the cap back. But other than that, I haven't had any of those issues while wearing them.

Before applying them, I apply my lipbalm then line my lips from the outer corner of my lips inwards. I then apply the lipsticks the same way I lined my lips using them and fill them in. 

Another one of my favourite way to wear them is by mixing two colours at once, sort of like creating an ombre effect, which is amazing. I usually pair them with either two contrasting colours or of the same shade. 

In this case, I'd pair them like this: 

1. Outer colour 016 + Inner colour 005
2. Outer colour 012 + Inner colour 016
3. Outer colour 011 + Inner colour 012
4. Outer colour 012 + Inner colour 005

They really do give the lips a more fun and arty appearance. I usually wear the first pairing to work and the others when I go outside with my friends. Do note that the 011 and 012 colours are both very deep wine colours so when you pair them together, with a dark look, you look very broody and no one would want to approach you. Trust me, I once wore that during work time and my students didn't want to ask me anything regarding their homework. Haha.

The Silky Girl Gang

It does seem to me that Silky Girl has grown on me, I didn't use to like their make-up products before because I usually think local make-up products would sort of give you a very cheap-looking effect. But I am so glad that they proved me wrong! 

I would also pair my Kissproof 016 with the Silky Girl Go Matte Lipcolour together, with Nearly Nude lipcolour being the inner colour. It gives me a really soft appearance, which makes me seem almost nearly innocent. I have no complains about the Sunny Rose coloured lipstick, it does what it says, it's very moisturising and has a very gentle colour.

However, I have to say I did choose the Moisture Boost lipstick in a wrong shade because Ruby is just such a bright red colour, it just makes me look like I have almost yellow teeth. So when I do wear this colour, I tend to not talk too much or just not show my teeth in general. But since this lipstick is in my make-up bag, I would just wear it in a very tinted manner. I'd use the tip of my finger to gently apply it, so it doesn't stand out too much.

The Nyx Gang

I swear, thanks to Instagram and the explosion of make-up tutorial videos on YouTube, I too have suddenly became obsessed with Nyx. 

These are very matte lipsticks, which I truly advise that you wear your lipbalm before applying them. I would also pair Antwerp with Kissproof 016, with just filling in the middle of my bottom and top lips with it. I do the same too with Athens.

I really do not like wearing these on their own, because they sort of give me a very dry afer feel at the end of the day. But they do stay very long on the lips, around I'd say 5 hours? 

Because I usually apply my lipsticks before the students come to class as well as so that I can prepare myself by looking presentable before I meet any parents who come for inquiries. So I'd definitely say that these are in my work bag almost all week.

So in the end, I think my ultimate favourite lipstick is definitely a tie between Kissproof 016 and Kissproof 011. Because these two has been with me for a while, and they are the two lipsticks that I would undoubtedly take from my lipstick jar. 

That's it for now. We'll meet again when I have fun things to tell you about, and of course, when I have added more lipsticks to my collection.

Until then, stay healthy and be beautiful! 

xx Shifa' Azham xx

MAC Lipsticks Review & Swatches

Hi all, I’m so excited on writing this post today! It’s because, I finally have my very first lipstick from MAC Cosmetics! Not only one, but two! After so long, learning make up. I finally own it! Okay, I have been wanting their lipsticks for so long! But my boyfriend thinks that I have too many lip products, that I should just stop buying for a while, and only get things that I need. However, this time around, they’re actually gifts from my beloved boyfriend! Surprise, surprise right? I thought, oh my god. How sweet of him to do so. He knows I’ve been wanting it for so long. Why am I getting these gift if you are wondering. I have been working under the same company for quite some time. Specifically, for two years. So being a supportive boyfriend. Yearly, he would give me presents. To congrats me, on standing strong for this long. I know, how spoiled of me! Last year, I got a set of the Body Shop’s limited edition set of body wash.

MAC Matte Lipstick in Diva

I was not expecting lipsticks at all, especially from MAC! I am officially the happiest girl alive, at the moment! He got me two. One in the matte range, in “Diva” and the other one in the amplified crème range in “Craving”. Now my favourite one out of these two, is Diva. I must say, he knows me best even on the selection of lipsticks that I would actually wear. I have been loving, dark colours on my lips for so long! And Diva, I must say is something I would wear every day! It is mostly like a very dark cranberries. Like, a purple mix maroon kind colour which I love! It is what it is called after all, “Diva”. LOVE! And, the matte texture. Amazing though, how it is very easy to wear. However, there is a downside to this. I don’t know if it was just me or anything but I was expecting it to be as matte as other lipstick out there that it would last longer than this. I had this for a day on my lips, and I had to reapply many many times, as the color do fades out. Even worst when I am having a heavy meal. Everything would go off, just like that! Hmm.

MAC Amplified Creme Lipstick in Craving 

Now, the one in “Craving” I find works best during a daily basis. It’s definitely A to go lipstick, if you’re already having a heavy makeup and wants something to tone down the look with a tinted but natural lipstick. “Craving” is A to go! I’m actually grateful my boyfriend got me these. Not only that, he also got me the lipsticks, from different range so I could try which fit me best. The color “Craving” is like very taupe colour. More neutral, and warm pink kind of tone. Something Kylie Jenner would wear, if you get what I mean. Now the “amplified crème” as they called it is a lot creamier that the “matte” ones. It is however, very pigmented. I am fine with this one, it seems to work out very well. There’s still a lot of exploring to do with MAC Lipsticks, I guess. If you're wondering how much this cost, it's actually RM 74 per bullet. Other than that, I can’t wait to try out more from MAC!

 Swatches on "Diva and Craving"

P/S : Let me know, your favourite MAC lipstick or any other colour that you think I should try in the comment box below!

Love,

Aleen Abdollah 

Daft Punk // Random Access Memories

It will be different this time around. What do I mean by that is, this post will not just be another “beauty post”, I have been inspired listening to their music. Too inspired, I simply just have to write about them. And that is, about Daft Punk. I’ve known them for so long, as they are main stream. However, I’ve never been the biggest fan. That is until, I heard their full album on “Random Access Memories”. Oh my god. To be honest, I’ve never been a fan of Electronic/Auto Tune Music. But this album catches me. Why? Listening, to each song from this. Learning their story behind it. It’s not just good music. It contains of many stories. Stories, I’m interested in.

“Meaningful, free feeling, mind – blowing.” Is what I thought understanding this album. This album was done in the year, 2013. I know how outdated of me right? I actually started listening to their full album, in my brother’s car in a road trip. And once, I got back home, buying their album is what I know I needed to do. No regrets, clearly. Why I am such a big fan of this album, is that I enjoy how they could capture the old good sound of the 50s – 70s, and turned it into their own modern version of music. I mean, that’s like a good combo that no one could think of other than Daft Punk themselves. I must say, I am influenced to listen to this album because my brother. He was so obsessed on this album for years now. It never bore him in any way. And he would tell me all over again what each song meant to him on his own perceptions. Which I thought was great, how he appreciates it. I mean, I fall in love deeply in music easily as I think there are many genre out there that is great in their own special way. It’s how you enjoy loving it,that matters.

I have been playing this album for almost a week now. On repeat. In fact, I find this album a good start of the day as they have many happy songs in it. And the beats of it.  Amazing. Such as, Give Life Back to Music, Giorgio by Moroder, Instant Crush, Get Lucky, Lose Yourself to Dance, Fragments of Time, etc. Knowing that, Daft Punk actually collaborated with many good artist on this album attracts me more.  Tell you what, to make this post even better, I’ll be telling you my perspective on the 3 favorites songs I have in here. Keep on reading! J

1.       Give Life Back To Music

This track is actually the first song to be played on this album. It’s like “love at first sight” I must say. How happy the 70’s modern beats make me once it is being played. The lyrics were catchy as per below;

“Let the music in tonight

Just turn on the music

Let the music of your life

Give life back to music”

This went on repeat throughout the whole song, what could be better than these words, for a start of a record right? I find it amazing, as if, there’s a ride to this album, and I am heading somewhere with it. This song definitely, drives me to it!

2.       Giorgio by Moroder

Now this song, is by far my favourite from this album. The song was created as a tribute to Italian electronic music innovator, Giorgio Moroder. It starts with a monologue by the synth legend in which he narrates his life story,beginning with growing up in a German small town wanting to be a musician, driving to the disco, sleeping in car, and how he decided on using a synthesizer because “I knew that could be the sound of the future”. Inspiring right? This guy practically created electronic music 40 years ago! And based on the sound of this song, it’s impossible of anyone to not like it! Believe me, you’ll not regret one bit listening to it!

3.       Instant Crush featuring Julian Casablancas

First of all, the vocal from this song was actually Julian Casablancas who is also the led singer of The Strokes. And I have been the biggest fan of The Strokes, which explains why this song is in my top 3! Well, to be honest, I did not enjoy this as much as I did enjoy The Strokes, because of Julian’s auto tuned vocals. In fact, I even had trouble understanding this song. But once, I go through the lyrics. I thought, hmm. This is something different, it is so deep, to understand. One dark, lonely song. I thought. I’ve seen reviews, many had interesting perceptions. Which could relate. Until now, I am not sure what this song is about, some said, “love triangle”, others said its something about his relationship with his wife. Like I said, so many perceptions, I guess that’s why it’s one of my favourites. Its because, I’m so curious of what its about. I just could not stop listening to it, going through the lyrics, till I get my own perception. 

Alright now, I hope you enjoy this post. If you are interested as I was, do get a copy of this album. It's the finest! It basically brings, a "Back to The Future" feeling . You won't regret it. Trust me.  

Xx

Aleen Abdollah

November Favourites // Maybelline Specials

November’s ending soon! Hence, it’s now time for me to do my November’s Favourites. If you notice, I went on a budget splurge this month and somehow I have been reaching a lot from Maybelline! Therefore, based on the header, yes this post will be a Maybelline special. In fact, I feel as if I can never get enough from them. Today, I will be featuring three products from them. Let’s begin with their face selection.

Maybelline's Baby Skin Pore Eraser - RM 29.90

Maybelline’s Baby Skin Pore Eraser. Coming from a girl who wants a flawless effect I mean who does not right? A primer, is a definite need. I bought this tube of 22ml for only RM 29.90.  At first, I thought nah this item might not work as good as other primers out there. Thought wrong! Applying it at first, felt weird. As it is a translucent primer. I did not see it “actually” closes my pores. However, once I am done with the full make up, my oh my! I loved it, it leaves my skin dewy and flawless. The good kind of dewy of course. For a drugstore primer. This works at its best! My only advice for this and other primer out there is, to make sure you cleanse the face properly! As they consist wax, to give that flawless effect, it might get sucks in the skin and that could cause breakouts. So do cleanse accurately! J

Maybelline's Hyper Sharp Liner - RM 21.80

Maybelline’s Hyper Sharp Liner. Now this is also something I could never live without! An eye liner, do wonders to my eyes! I know as an Asian, it does run in the blood on having small eyes. But with an eyeliner, I could feel the difference right after! Lol. When using eyeliner, I preferred it to be very thin and natural – like which is another reason why, I love Hyper Sharp Liner so much is because of how thin the brush is, I could draw on my eyes comfortably. Without worrying of how thick my eyeliner would be. The color itself, is super pigmented. And the best part of it all is, ITS WATERPROOF! Before I forget, it only cost RM21.80! LOVE!

 Maybelline's Baby Lips, Berry Crush - RM 10.90 

Maybelline’s Baby Lips in Berry Crush. Ahh! Lippies! If you don’t know, I am a HUGE fan of lippies! Lip balms, lipstick, lip color, you name it! I would never go out with a pale lips, NEVER! Why look dull, when you know you could bright it up right? Now when, Maybelline’s Lip balms first came out in Malaysia years ago I was super excited! I had one back when I was in high school, but it has been misplaced later then it never came to mind to get another one. L However this time around, I was tempted to get one more, after seeing a friend of mine, Shifa enjoying using it so much. She has a few from this range actually. I got mine, for RM 10.90. I had to get the color ones rather than the translucent. And so, I got mine in Berry Crush. At first I did not light this at all! As I thought it was too thick and sticky for my lips. But I kept on insisting to use this for a few more weeks. After three weeks, without realizing I would apply this almost every hour. In fact, some days I did not even apply any lipstick on my lips as I feel that the color on this lip balm is already enough! I’m someone with tan skin though, it would look weird without any make up on. But once I have full make up on, combined with this lip balm. It satisfies me on what I want.

I guess, that’s about it on this month’ favourite! I would like to thank Maybelline for producing such good products, with a reasonable price! There’ll be more that I’ll be getting from them that’s for sure! Thank you too for reading this post! Till next time!

Xx,

Aleen Abdollah 

Maybelline's Color Tattoo Review

Hi all, today's review will be on the Maybelline's 24 hours Color Tattoo. I've heard so many of the people out there, raving on this product, So I thought, I shall give it a try. But the color that catches my eyes, was in #45 Eternal Gold. I only got one, just for the purpose of testing it out. My first impression were, the packaging. Like any other paint pots out there. It's pretty much the same. This pot cost me, only RM 21.80 . Not bad right? Knowing Maybelline, they always bring the goods at a reasonable price! Kudos!

Mentioned on the pot that these were "24 hours Color Tattoo", at first I thought that was almost impossible. Thought wrong! Let me tell you, for a RM 21.80 paint pots this is very much affordable! Much love! Read on to find out more! :)

As seen on the picture above, the consistency of it is very thick and pigmented, Overall, I think that this last on my eyelids for a long time and smudge proof as well. I also, use this as an eye shadow base, and it works perfectly all the time! I have very, oily lids through out the day somehow this one, does not crease that badly. Which is another kudos on Maybelline! The only downfall I have on this product is that, the shimmers / glitters that they have on this could be seen clearly compared to other high - ends ones (ex : MAC , Chanel). Since I've always preferred my eye shadows in matte. Other than that, everything is fine. I must say, I would not wear this daily. However, it would be perfect for a night wear! Once again, kudos Maybelline!


Sincerely,
Aleen Abdollah

Innisfree Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask Review

       

Hi there, today my post will be a review on another Innisfree product and that is their Super Volcanic Pore Clay Mask! I've had this, quite a while ago, when I purchased their nail polishes. In fact, when they first opened. That explains this cute sample packaging. I had it as a free gift with some other several products. Why, thank you Innisfree! Out of the other samples they gave, this one become my favorite. Let me tell you why!

To be frank, I fail badly when it comes to masks. I do use it occasionally but not as a routine in any way. So I thought of giving this one a try since it's already free! Surprisingly, I have been using this petite pack, for quite sometime now and there is still much more left! My first impression were, this mask leaves me with cooling fresh smoother skin and I started liking it already. Obviously, you cannot see it reducing your blackheads or enlarge your pores immediately. However, I actually gave more time on this research that I actually apply this mask weekly as a routine. And to be honest, I do feel the difference of using this, Whenever, I have breakouts on my face, this actually help dries out my pimples, not my skin! My skin, feels slightly more hydrated after each use.

I mean, that's great right?

Everything, about this pore clay mask, works for me. I mean, once again, I don't know much about masks but this one is okay. Saw the full pack the other day of 100ml, it was only RM55.90 which I think is worth the buy for what it does. I mean don't pore clay mask cost a lot more? I'm not sure. Oh wells, if you ask me. I would definitely consider to purchase the full pack next time around! 

P/S: Do let me know, if there's mask like this or better out there. I would love to give it a try! 

Sincerely,

Aleen Abdollah

Daiso Beauty Products Part III

It has been a while since I last post about "Daiso Beauty Products". So long, I almost forgot about it! That was until I discovered something new from Daiso. I don't know if you know, but I've been a fan of painting my own nails. Love em! Collecting new colors in my collection, that's something I enjoy doing. However, this time by coincidence my "top coat" were dried out and I just so happen to visit Daiso that weekend. Knowing there's a few type of them there, I had to get two. And so, I purchased the "Quick Dry" and "Super Glossy" ones. Not to forget, these were just RM 5.30 EACH! Last night, I tested them both on each of my hands. Let's see the result shall we?

Daiso's Quick Dry Top Coat by Winmax 

Result of the Quick Dry Top Coat 

(really sorry for the messy manicure, hope you can see the result!)

Now on the packaging of this one itself was mentioned for it to dry up as quick as 45 seconds. To be frank, I was disappointed by this statement. As it definitely took more that 10 minutes to dry! The top coat itself was very watery! I was also, not happy with the result that it gave me once it has dried out. It sort of made my colored nail look very cheap when I know it should look well groom. If you get what I mean? The scent, was fine though. it was not like it smelt unpleasing or anything. It's just the result that it gave me. Definitely, would not re-purchase this in the future. 

Daiso's Super Glossy Top Coat by Winmax

Result of the Super Glossy Top Coat 

On to the second one, Super Glossy. Now this I love! Mentioned on the packaging that it is actually incredibly glossy. And so I thought it is! This one, does not lie! If you are looking for that glossy finish you shall get your hands on this! It brings back my trust towards Daiso's Beauty Products! The texture of this one, seems right. It does take very long to dry up, which I'm used to with other Top Coats out there. I just love how the glossy finish that it gives me. Before this, I was using Sally Hansen's "Big Shiny" top coat and I'm glad to say, that and this works almost the same! And the price difference though for something that works "almost" the same! (sorry Sally Hansen!) For only, RM 5.30 on this glossy one. I'd say, go and get one NOW! Definitely a win!

I hope this helps, on your Top Coat search out there! I guess the lesson of this post is, not all "lower price" items are good. But it's okay to try. You might not know it might be a keeper! I'll keep you update on "Daiso's Beauty Products" soon. More interesting post coming up! Stay tuned! 

With Love, 

Aleen Abdollah

Innisfree Aloe Revital Skin Mist Review

                                             Innisfree Aloe Revital Skin Mist - RM 42

If you don't know Innisfree is actually a Korean product whom offered skincare that combines pure and natural ingredients with an eco-friendly exterior. The brand make use of vegetable, fruit and mineral extracts to tackle specific skin troubles. Example of ingredients, includes green tea, seaweed, volcanic clay, and more from South Korea's volcanic and mineral-rick Jeju Island.

The one I will be reviewing today, is the Aloe Revital Skin Mist by Innisfree. This one contains organic aloe vera juice JeJu 94%. It helps, soothes and moisturizes the skin. It is also stated at the back of the bottle that "The mist-type toner containing  Jeju chemical-free aloe inner skin to penetrate the skin to replenish it with vitality." I guess, once it has been sprayed on it will help the skin feel refreshed and moisturized? And one thing for sure, this products is definitely free of colorant,mineral oil, artificial fragrances!

The first time, I sprayed it on my face I did not feel as if this product really is refreshing. Up to no, though. But it does help moisturize the skin, It helps better if you have dry skin and you want to have that "dewy look" once you have full make up on. If you do so, go ahead and get this! It is not my best experience of using a face mist with this one. I guess, I just have to explore more on face mists. Like I mentioned this is definitely a go to if you have dry skin. If you're combo skin like me, perhaps others would work better. I guess, paying RM 42 for this to me, is not worth it? Maybe this will work, as a back up. Who knows. I'm sure, there's much more goods from Innisfree. It's just this one, does not work quite well on me.


Below's a little tip of how to use ;

After cleansing, close your eyes and spray an appropiate amount from 20-30 cm from face. Use any time your skin feels dry or needs instant moisturization. Could be used before or after makeup.

P/S : Let me know, what's your favorite face mist out there. Share the goods!

Sincerely,
Aleen Abdollah

New in Vanity // Price List // Budget Beauty (November 2015)

Hi there, for those who has went through my blog before, This is just an update on the new things I have on the vanity this sweet month of November! This time around, I'll be including pictures of individual products that I have purchased and the price below. One disclaimer before we begin though, this is not in any way showing off. The things I got here are all based on my own money and I had to work for it. That's why, the things you see here are mostly "drugstore" as I am on a budget. Lol. Basically, just want to share on what I think I should give a try on and see what's good. Let's get it started shall we? 

Maybelline's Baby Skin Pore Eraser - RM 29.90

Silky Girl's Loose Powder in #01 Natural Light - RM 26.90

Biore Make Up Remover // Perfect Cleansing Water - RM 28.80

Innisfree's Aloe Revital Skin Mist - RM 42

Maybelline's HyperSharp Liner - RM21.80

ST Ives' Apricot Cleanser - RM 16.80

Daiso's Topcoats by Winmax - RM 5.30 each

The Hyper Curl Volum' Express (Waterproof) RM 21.80

To round it up, those were the things I got this month so far. Will test it all soon and give them each a review. Because, truthfully me myself have not tried any of this yet! If there is anything you would like to see a review on first, do leave a comment in the comment box below.

xx,

Aleen Abdollah

TheBalm's Bahama Mama Review & Swatches!

 

TheBalm is one of the under-rated make up brand out there. However, due to many good reviews on them, I decided to give a try on this product, which is the Bahama Mama bronzer. Why not right? Today, that is what this post will be all about. A review focusing on TheBalm's Bahama Mama Bronzer. Excited yet? I know I am! Well, where shall I begin? Bahama Mama Bronzer comes in a simple yet quirky packaging. The packaging includes a decent size mirror on the inside. There is also .25 OZ of product in it, assuming it will last a while before you have to purchase another. I actually found out about The Bahama Mama bronzer, by watching a lot of the Make Up Gurus on Youtube giving good reviews on this. I just had to get one myself!

This product comes in a very blendable formula and I find it easy to soften out the intensity , thank you TheBalm.  I don't find myself going back and forth trying to add more using this as it doesn't lack pigment. The color of it is dark enough to make an immediate difference (and I have warm skin tone!) Perfect right? It basically gives me the nice and natural finish I wish having everyday!

(Swatches on TheBahama Mama Bronzer by TheBalm)

And to round it all up, I would say with all these goodness The Bahama Mama offers a reasonable price for a bronzer. The only place I know that sells this in Malaysia would be in any of the nearest Sasa outlet near you! I got mine for only RM75! To me, for a bronzer that is not overpriced at all, like most prestige make up. (example : MAC // Benefit // Bobbi Brown)

I am even more satisfied with this product, knowing that after using this for a week or two, it does not leave any breakout on my skin! I guess this baby, just blended well in my skin! What's not to love about that right?  I guess, I have given my all in this one. Hope you enjoy this!

P/S : Hints on whats next : Budget Beauty! 

With Love,

Aleen Abdollah 

Acid // Exfoliating Toner for beginners by Quixotic Kitty!

In today's post, I am going to talk about acid/ exfoliating toner.

 Don't let the word acid freak you out. It's a gentle acid, that is suitable on the skin in your face. Not the corrosive ones we use in the laboratory.

What does it do?

Unlike the physical exfoliator (micro beads/ scrubs) acid/ exfoliating toner uses gentle acid to exfoliate the surface of our skin. Dead skin cells will be gone with a few swipes on the face!

 As opposed to micro beads to exfoliate the skin, some scrubs have rough edges and could make micro tear in the skin. I personally find acid/ exfoliating toners to be gentler on my skin.

How many kinds are there?

There are many types of strength when it comes to acid/ exfoliating toner. There are the gentle ones where you can use twice daily and there are stronger ones where you should only use twice a week. This depends on the needs of your skin.

I prefer an acid toner that is gentle enough for everyday use. This is because I live in the city and I am exposed to pollutants that could stay on top of my skin. Also, a gentle, everyday exfoliating toner will help to prepare my skin for a better absorption of serums and facial oils.

(Left) First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads, Pixy Glow Tonic from Pixy by Petra, (Right) Clarins Gentle Exfoliator

 The one that I use is Pixi Glow Tonic from Pixi by Petra. I bought this for £ 18 when I visited London. You can get this via pixibeauty.co.ukor cultbeauty.co.uk.

My sister, who is an avid skincare junkie owns four acid toners, but she only recommends two. She has a sensitive skin, while mine is normal. She loves Clarins Gentle Exfoliator Brightening Toner at RM 161.10 and First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Pads at RM 110. Clarins' toner is a little strong, hence it should be used thrice a week maximum, while First Aid Beauty's (you can get this at Sephora Malaysia) exfoliating pads is gentle enough to be used everyday.

The other two were Clinique Clarifying Lotion and Ren Clarimatte Clarifying Toner. She claims that both of these toners have alcohol in them, which dries her skin out. I have not tried these two yet.

(Left) Ren Clarimatte Clarifying Toner // (Right) Clinique Clarifying Toner

Why would I need an acid/ exfoliating toner?

 Some people think that toner is not a need and does very little for your skin. I disagree. Acid toner gives my skin an extra oomph, especially if I put on my facial oil right after before I sleep. I will wake up with a dewy-looking skin. Moisturized and supple. Not just that, exfoliating toner has helped me with pimples. It helps my pimple scar to fade quicker and "kill" off any incoming zits. Oil seeds are no longer in sight too.

Is it worth my money?

In my opinion, as a skincare junkie, yes. A 250ml exfoliating toner could last you for a year. I got mine 8 months ago, and I have only used half of the bottle. For the benefits that I get for using this on my face every night, it is worth it.

Below, is a picture of me with the result!

If you need more convincing, you can check out skincare expert, Caroline Hirons at carolinehirons.com or youtube.com/carolinehirons or, Lisa Eldridge, makeup artist at youtube.com/lisaeldridge.

Xxx Quixotic Kitty