Moving? I Hope So.

Well, if you follow me on Twitter, you might have seen me update about moving and stuff.
This was actually a sudden thing. A plan. Well, it's official to me though LOL.

My parents are still thinking about it but it was actually them discussing with my older sister.

She lives (well, right now she's back in Brunei for the holidays) in the US for at least 3 more years and I guess they discussed me moving in with her family to help out with taking care of my niece. Also, there's talk about me studying Cosmetology degree or at least some courses.

Her house is quite close to a university so it's easy I guess.

I'm actually interested in art, writing..E.Lit...but honestly, it comes and goes.

As for Cosmetology...do I know shit? No. It'd be something completely new to me.
Maybe I'll like it.

Plus I wouldn't mind learning. I am constantly discovering new things as I apply makeup. Like today, my eyeliner wings were a bit more bold and evil looking LOL. And I changed up my foundation routine. Well, I always do. I rotate them a lot but dammit, two breakouts ;-;

I'm not very adventurous with my makeup I guess, mostly because I wear glasses 99% of the time. With my astigmatism, wearing lenses generally strain me more than help me. Plus I only wear lenses when I do some costume looks.


Moving to the US for a little while would be a welcome change for me.
The more I stay here, honestly, my anxiety is getting worse. I'm not as depressed like before. I was told to take my anti-depressants but I really don't want to :(

Maybe just for anxiety.


I'm scared at the thought of going to uni with no one I know, no friends, everything is fresh.

Unlike my Japan stay back in 2008, I feel like I'm not as brave as I was back then.
I feel small.

Scared.


Depression changed me.
Or maybe Japan changed me.


I'm scared, even though my sister will be there :(

Well, it's also very far from here.
Travelling...ugh, I have motion sickness, even two hour flights kill me!


Also, my favourite kitten died last Sunday.
I blame myself for it, really.
I still can't get over it. Slowly, I am.

But it's a bit traumatic for me...I feel like I've failed the mother cat.

It's the first kitten death under my care (officially).

Man, I really don't wanna cry again. Ha.


Anyway, tomorrow/today we're having a family BBQ, I marinated some chicken and lamb stuff. I hope it tastes good. My chicken will compete with mom's. I have a smaller portion though.

If mine tastes good, people will just have to share!


I've been busy taking care of the niece and nephew :)
I don't mind it one bit, well, except when they cry and I don't know what's wrong D:

And their poo-poo.

No.

Anyway, bought this:

Glazed Apple Hand Cream BND8.90

I'm kinda bummed they don't have the body butters separately.

They only have it in a small kit that's like BND19.90 and a big kit that's BND89...something.

( ;-; ) how is that a good deal?? It's not like everything's full sized :< well, okay, maybe 3 out of 4 of it are full sized...but still.

I'd buy it if it was BND69 maybe lol. Well, maybe.

I just splurged on some MUG Vegas Collection...so of course, I can't.

Sorry for the rambling, just in the mood for it.

( '-' ) I'm kinda half-down. I forced myself to workout for 3 days straight, so I'm less prone to hormonal outbursts. I am late though. My period I mean.

I guess it's stress.

Or the anti-depressants.


Anyway, I need to sleep.


'til then, take care!

-Nisah-

Cosplay & Instagram Giveaway :D (Makeup)

Hi guys :D

So, I have an Instagram Giveaway going on right now on @beautyandfrogs for makeup items that's more specifically geared toward everyday makeup lovers.

You can join that one right here (it's international):

@beautyandfrogs Instagram Giveaway

For the Instagram Giveaway

Now, for the Cosplay one, it's not fabric or anything, but it's makeup.
Basics.

Well, basics without the base and eyeliner.

I have a lot of extras and backups and I realised that I might as well give it away.
Rather than let it not be used.

You wanna win this?

What you'll win:

- MUA Great Lips Lip Balm (it's a nude colour, so it can cancel out your lip colour a bit)

- MUA Pressed Powder in Shade 3

- essence Stay Natural Concealer in 01 Soft Beige (can use for highlighting your nose, etc.)

- Etude House Eyeshadow in Vanilla Cream

- Kate Eyebrow Mascara in Light Brown (use to lighten your brows, I like to do this before colouring my eyebrows a different colour to match the wig)

The value for this is about BND30 (the eyebrow mascara's pricy lol)

So you'll still need to buy a sponge/brush for the powder and you can find some nice black liners from Paloma.

--

Uhm, since I'm not technically a cosplayer (but I love looking at local cosplay pics courtesy of N.E Project), I'm not sure how I can make this work lol.

But you see, I love singing and I haven't posted any of my original releases online because it's a bit hard. I am working on some songs but I haven't recorded the vocals yet.

So in return, I guess, to be entered...

Here are the rules:

1) "Like" my page (no spamming, I promise): N!SA

2) Leave a comment here that you entered, and what your FB username is.

3) Giveaway will close on the 3rd of December and I will PM* you on FB if you win (will probably take 2 days to draw the winner)

4) Winner will be chosen randomly.

5) Open only to those who reside in Brunei.

*It might be on your "Others" folder, so look out for it on the 5th or so.

I might even add some extras once I know who the winner is.


Okay, that's it :)
Goodluck! Hopefully the winner will be able to use the items for their cosplay.

'til then, take care!

Collective Haul (Luxola, US, UK) + Giveaway Sneak Peek

I've too many hauls lately but I can't help it that it's all around the same time xD;
I might as well make a collective haul post than separate them, y'know?

So, the first thing I received around last week were my Zoeva brush sets!
This was definitely not planned, but I was lucky.

- Zoeva Vegan Face Set
- Zoeva Complete Eye Set
- Samples

I bought this before they decided to not have them discounted anymore, so it was really a lucky buy. Unfortunately I didn't get the most expensive one ( oAo ) that complete set of the complete ones. Not that I had the money for that one.

I haven't used them...simply because I'm quite rough with my brushes (well, not really) and I don't really know how to deal with more expensive brushes! I'm honestly very weird with things.

But I can say that they're soooo soft and soooo well made AND well packaged! They come in a bag with another bag! It feels much more luxurious than Sigma, I feel.

I'm definitely gonna have the ultimate complete set for my hantaran LOL.

Next up, we have my Sephora and Walgreens haul.

My sis just came back to visit from the US.

You'd be surprised at how little makeup I asked for.

Well, it has something to do with weight though.

- Rimmel Stay Matte Liquid Mousse Foundation
- Too Faced 5 Star Favorites
- Benefit Cheeky Sweet Spot
- Samples

Originally, the samples were supposed to go to my sister but she's like "Y'know, just take it. You like trying out things". My sis has LOVELY skin :O maybe it's from giving birth and all that. She did say she used an Aveeno cleanser.

I've tried the Rimmel foundation twice already. One thing I'd like to point out:

Excuse the dry fingers (UGH)

When I first opened it, I saw this.

It was clearly swatched/used.

LOL. Man, American drugstores are scary.

I just went ahead and sanitized it.

I got the shade 203 True Beige. It fits me well, it is a little bit more pink. I haven't used it without a base, so I dunno if it'd oxidize. I do like how it looks like on my skin! Does it keep me matte? Not really, but so far I do like it.

Haven't tried the Too Faced stuff yet but I have used the Benefit blushes.

Well, some of them. Rockateur and Bella Bamba are immediate faves on the face. Hoola I used...it was okay. I tried the brush it came with. SUCKS.

It just stabbed my Hoola ;-;

Last but not least~

This arrived yesterday!

MUA Shade 12

I've been waiting for these for a while!

It took a month to arrive, but at least it did! Still can't get over my lost packages from the UK/US. That one MUA order from last year that never came, a whole lot of products. My lost Vice palette (second hand), twice sent. UGH.

But anyway, one is for me....and one is for a giveaway!

The reason for me buying this shade:

THE DUOCHROME!

It's not as strong as I thought it would be, when swatched on the hand and on my mom's eyes...but with a base, it was so nice.

A dupe for MAC's Club or Blue Brown pigment? I'm not so sure.

But yeah, that's about it.

I've been slowly trying most of the things I got. Some I liked, some I loved...some I'm 'eh' about.

So, have you tried any of these?

What do you think of them?

I'd love to know :)

'til then, take care!

-Nisah-

Luxola Haul :D (Yet Again) + Luxola Wishlist!

I can't help it sometimes when they have good deals.
Well, it's kinda annoying sometimes when you place an order and on the same day, they have a better deal. Well, this time I could have saved BND2 lol. Well, that's still money!

Anyway, my package arrived today (29th October) and I made the order on the 20th. It was delivered to my house.

It's not a very big haul but I'll share it nonetheless!

Pic from my Blog Instagram: beautyandfrogs
(Do follow me here for upcoming giveaways and stuff :D)

I ordered:

1. K-Palette Real Lasting Proof Eyeliner in Deep Brown (BND19.90)

2. K-Palette Zero Teka Powder (BND19.90)

3. Zoeva 229 Eye Finish (BND12)

4. Zoeva 228 Crease (BND12)

So they have a deal where if you buy K-Palette products with a minimum spend of $30, you'll get one of three concealers. Since I bought it in my last order, I thought it's a great deal, because I DO like the concealer. This time I received one in Orange Beige, which is good!

I'm very excited about the crease brush! I'll have to wash them and try it out :D

So I was browsing the Zoeva section, and I got excited for a few things.

I might, MIGHT get them if I have extra money (but I need to spend on my cats lol).

I think it depends on what I need but here's my list:

1. Zoeva Makeup Artist Zoe Bag (BND330)
2. Zoeva Complete Eye Set (BND99)
3. Zoeva Luxe Complete Set (BND185)
4. Lavie Lash Brush-On Lash Adhesive (BND11)
5. Mario Badescu Say Hello to Clear (BN64)
6. Real Techniques Expert Face Brush (BND18)


I've been into buying brushes because y'know, it's fun lol.

(Real Techniques and Zoeva are no longer included in discounts ;-;)



It's not like I have all the money in the world, I'm also trying to really not buy things unless I really need them. Like uh, makeup for the sake of the brand name (coughUDcoughtheBalmcough). I mean, I LOVE theBalm, don't get me wrong, I love it more than UD (crease-fest for me) but Balm Voyage was really bought without thinking.

I'm really hoping somebody would buy it off me (coz I barely touched it), I'm actually selling both UD Naked 2 and Balm Voyage for BND108 (Naked 2 BND58/Balm Voyage BND55). If you know any makeup artists and stuff who'd want them, please tell me lol.


Have you shopped with Luxola before?

'til then, take care!

-Nisah-

The Spatula (Depotting Korean Shadows Easily!)

What you need~

This was actually supposed to be posted on Instagram on the 16th but I got too lazy lol.
You see, if you have this mixing palette or you do sculpting things, you've surely seen this before.

This end is useful (when used carefully)

I got mine when I ordered the palette (it's useful when you do makeup jobs) and lately I've been using it for a lot of things. I clean it a lot of course, with soap and alcohol. If that's wrong, do correct me.

But yeah, one day, I was sitting down and was organising my single eyeshadows, and I realized that the Tony Moly one has a big space in between the pan and the acrylic casing.

You probably can't see it well.

So I tried depotting this, it was easily removed from the acrylic.

The Etude House one is much more compact.

But both were removed very, very easily.

You just pry it gently (but insistently).

After a while, it'll just pop out.

I thought before this, you might need heat for everything.
But then again, this was only tried on Korean single eyeshadows.

I need to try it with other things.

They fit right in.

The spatula is a very useful tool.

I use it to scoop out foundation, to scoop out a tiny bit of night masks, mix foundations...etc.

Just be sure to sanitise it :D

It is definitely versatile!


If you have a lot of single shadows lying around from the Korean brands, do try this.
I've tried it with the SkinFood and also Holika Holika ones. They pop right out!


So yeah :D hopefully that helps!


I should've done a video for Instagram but nobody wanted to help film me ;-;


'til then, take care!

-Nisah-

Luxola 35% Off Storewide + Cashback! (21st October)

Dammit Luxola.
I just placed an order like 3 HOURS ago.

And THIS shows up. I could have saved $2 more.

Sigh.

I had a feeling.

That nagging feeling told me to wait it out.

But I was scared the promo gift would run out.

Yes, I know.

It's for tomorrow, 21st! Not today.

Unfortunately again, Sigma Beauty is no longer applicable for discount.

I really have my eyes on Zoeva, but that's for future purchases I guess.

So if you guys have any interest in getting some stuff from Real Techniques, 3CE, Philosophy, etc. I'd say get it.

Because the free shipping is right to your doorstep :) provided you spend BND40 above!

So that is very good.

I contemplated on buying something from Etude House but the shipping is expensive for a two week wait. Usually it takes two weeks anyway.

Even though I was iffy about my package being opened, if I received it myself and again it was opened, then...I really might reconsider. Maybe it's just a one off thing.

I don't know.

So I'm officially done with shopping.

This should last me until December.



Yeah.

Load up your wishlist!
Here's my invite link :)

Join Luxola

This will give me points to accumulate, and with points, you can use it for future purchases, it is not going to give me money.

'til then, take care!

-Nisah-

Letting Go of Some Stuff (Makeup)

As in my makeup palettes lol.
I'm still sorting through my makeup and then I realized how rarely I use some palettes.

You can take a look at some of the items here:
For Sale (Pre-Loved Makeup)

When I say pre-loved, it really means no love at all lol.
I barely touched them, some shades aren't even touched. I just kept them because they're pretty or nostalgic.

Like the Naked 2 palette.

I'm still sorting through stuff, so I might add some more occasionally.



Honestly, I really need to slow down on the palette collection.
Like I said before, occasionally my older sister would give me hers.


I know Urban Decay shadows don't work on my lids, but sometimes it's still so hard to resist.


As much as I love theBalm, some of their stuff don't work on me also lol.


So yeah, things like that.


If you're interested in any way, do leave a comment :)


'til then, take care!

-Nisah-

Review: essence all about matt! oil control make-up base

I've been trying this product on and off for about a month now and weirdly I'm still undecided about it. In between, I've also been trying The Body Shop Skin Primer Matte It (bought 50% off of course) and my feelings for both products are about the same.

For now.

Anyway, this will just be short and sweet (hopefully!)

This is the essence 'all about matt! oil control make-up base'.

essence all about matt! oil control make-up base

PRODUCT INFORMATION

This product is a long-lasting, pore refining base that will keep your face matt with a smooth finish, and is lightweight. You can wear it alone or under makeup and you are advised to apply it thinly. It contains 20ml of product and has no SPF. This product is made in Italy and should be used up within 12 months. The price in Brunei is BND4.90.

Back of the tube (you can zoom in)

Under the all about matt! range, there are other products as well, like a foundation, an oil control paper, a loose and a compact powder. I have the loose and compact powder which I use interchangeably. I didn't buy the foundation because I have a lot of foundations opened :x

I had high hopes for this primer. I've read a lot of good things so when I saw it at Paloma, I just went for it.

How do I feel about it?

It keeps my forehead matte BUT my nose is still shiny somehow. I would say it also depends on what you put over it. 

Has a small tip, which is good

I've tried applying it thinly, applying it liberally and the results are about the same. What's good about it is that it doesn't ball up that much if you put too much accidentally. On its own without makeup on top, it doesn't keep my face from being shiny at all.

Pore refining is so-so, doesn't really blur much.

Comes out white-ish

It spreads easily, it feels a bit tacky (but you can barely notice it). It does keep my makeup on a tiny bit longer but the oil control was just not that impressive.

On its own.

On my hand, it made it smoother and a bit matte.

If I use the white powder over it, it lasts a lot better. So maybe if I try it with the foundation from the same range, it'll work a lot better.

But that's for future testing.

What's good about it compared to the TBS one is that it immediately makes my nose matte. But that's it.

---

PROS:

- Affordable.

- Locally available.

- Makes foundation stay on longer.

- Very lightweight.

- Doesn't clog my pores.

- Smoothens face.

CONS:

- Oil control isn't very good.

- Contains only 20ml of product.

- It needs a powder to make it stay matte longer.

- Doesn't blur the pores much.

Rating: 3/5 (Would probably just use this on my forehead)

Will I buy this again?

Probably not. But I wanna buy the all about matt! foundation and try it with this.

Do I recommend this?

Um, I don't feel like recommending it, but you can try it out I guess since it has rave reviews.

Where can you find this? 

Locally from Paloma :)

Other countries might have drugstores that carry essence as well.

---

I had high hopes, really.

But no worries, I'll give this a go again once I buy the foundation and see if it'll work better with it.

'til then, take care!

-Nisah-

I Can't Stop Eating!

No, seriously.
I've been quite naughty with my food intake. I guess it's the hormones, PMS stuff...you know the drill. It's a rare thing though, I am normally able to control my food intake. For a week now, all I want is to eat, eat and eat.

I guess it's the opposite of depression. Well, thing is, I don't really wanna gain weight. I wanna lose it. Usually, I have very bad weepy and screaming episodes before my period but it's less this month. Not that I want that either. I've actually taken a break from Uni again. I couldn't cope with my fluctuating moods and studies. Actually skipped my psychologist appointment today because I was feeling down (and I had a stomach ache)


Sigh.
Maybe university isn't for me. I might have the brain for it, but maybe it's just not for me. I want to study but I don't want the commitment until I'm 100% fine. Lately, I've been having dreams where it does point to it. Like, trying out something else.


I am interested in art, writing, beauty related things...but I can't seem to get that excited about it locally.

All I do is shop and waste money.
Well, I do use my makeup a lot more now. Even when I don't need it (good skin days y'know).

However, with me eating like a pig, all the carbs and sweets....I EAT IT ALL.

Yeah, it's showing on my skin.
Breakouts and such.

My skin's been behaving so well since I changed my skincare routine.
Now it's shit again because I can't stop myself.


Veggies, tomorrow, veggies.

....and potatoes.

Ooooh, potatoes.



Kinda wanna bake brownies too.

Imagine me being pregnant with these cravings x2 or more.
I can't imagine.

I don't wanna be obese.


Well, who knows if it's the opposite and I can't stand food.


Maybe I need time out from Brunei.
Go back to Japan or something.


Do you know that  I can't cook rice?
Well, I never tried.


I prefer western cooking anyway. Risotto, pasta...I can do that.

Maybe I should try keto diet again.


I hope I'll be able to do proper reviews again. I keep saying that but procrastination...you know the drill.

Planning on doing a Holiday Wishlist (not that it's necessary). Just things I've been lusting over. 90% of it will not be bought though LOL.


Since my sis lives in the US, I do plan on ordering some stuff to send there but no :x she won't be able to bring it all back safely. She has a baby to bring around.

Said baby turned 6 months today!
Baby Maira :D

Aunty can't want to see you!
Remind mommy to get my Benefit thing!


Okay? Okay then.


I'm also afraid of taking my anti-depressants. Scared it'll break me out ugh.


'til then, take care!

-Nisah-

Package from Luxola Arrived :D + Mini Rant

So, my order arrived.
Last time I ordered from Luxola, I had to wait around 10-14 days and I had to pick up the parcel myself from the post office.

This time though, it arrived fast and it was delivered to my house (I ordered on the 26th, arrived on the 1st)
I didn't receive it myself though, my maid accepted it.

So, the items arrived safe and sound. However...something bugged me.

My package was opened and stapled back together.
I've heard of this thing happening but at least notify us that it's opened for security reasons or what. Like, how would I know if a sample is missing or something since it's not listed :T

The invoice was checked (it's outside the package) and I'm like "Well, why can't you just x-ray the stuff".

I just feel a tiny bit "violated".
What if I ordered lingerie y'know. I'd want it delivered home because it's a personal thing.

Not that I've ordered any LOL.

The least they could have done was have a notice: "Opened for inspection", or something.


( '-' ) I think I'll have to look it up how it's handled.

ANYWAY:

Just took the pic from my Instagram lol

Here's what I ordered :D
A Real Techniques Blush Brush, the Sleek i-Divine Ultra Mattes Brights Palette and a K-Palette Zero Kuma Cover Control Concealer in 01 Natural Beige with Moisturizing Effects (THAT IS A MOUTHFUL).

Everything arrived safe, there are no swatch marks on the palette (Thank God!) and nothing was broken. Yay!

I had a 30% off code so I used it.
But dammit, the day AFTER I ordered, a 40% coupon was available.

I was pissed LOL.

But then again, I didn't really want to order something else.

Just a bit angry that it's a day after lol.


I was also sent a Sigma brochure to stare and drool at and a sample packet that....was opened. Or exploded. Err.

But other than that, I'm really happy with my order!


If you guys are interested in ordering from Luxola, here's my invite link :3
I would get points and once I accumulate a certain number, I'll get a certain amount off of an order but I won't get money :)

Join Luxola

No pressure, you guys can always just Google the site!

Luxola carries a lot of brands, and they're just adding more as we speak.


If you guys have any knowledge on how home delivery works in Brunei, do share!
'til then, take care!

-Nisah-

Free Beauty Blender :O

Luxola, you really want my wallet to cry...

Luxola.com

I recently made a purchase so I can't ( ;-; )
Such a shame because I'd really love to try the famous Beauty Blender (although the dupe I have is good enough, I rarely use it...such a hassle to clean and make sure no bacteria is growing!)

Considering the Beauty Blender itself is BND30 on Luxola (here), it's really a good deal.

I don't have anything I'd want to buy right now from there as I've just ordered something.

It is of limited stock though, so if you're interested, I'd say go and buy something now :D
Don't wait!


I hope they'll have a similar deal in the future, I'll definitely make use of that!
They always have good deals going around, you can always make an account and get notified of the deals via e-mail here.


For now, I wanna ask:
Do you use a Beauty Blender?
Do you like it? Or do you prefer using brushes or your hands?

I love using my Real Techniques Buffing Brush or just my hands. If the foundation is a bit thick, I'd even it out with a damp sponge. It works :)


I'll write some reviews soon, I've been testing a lot of products, I just can't form an opinion of them lol. I've been using certain things for a while and I'm still undecided :T


There's also a giveaway soon, hopefully.

I might host it on Instagram, what do you think?

'til then.

Take care!

-Nisah-

Dealing with Oily and Acne-Prone Skin? Introducing ENCA!

There's a special promotion happening right now until the 28th of September on Wishtrend, and it's for people dealing with acne and oily skin!

It's the [WishtrendTV] Daily Solution for Oily Acne Prone Skin!

I personally deal with it (more to oily skin, I have mostly hormonal breakouts now) but I have no money to buy this right now ( ;-; ) dammit.

Well, I might have some for the Option 2: Makeup Solution...

Anyway, you guys can watch this video for more information :)

This video explains it quite well and Option 2 is selling it for me.
I think I can get Option 3 as well. I dunno. Should I?

The BB Cream (ENCA Acne Control BB Cream) seems to have a lot of good reviews too! And it's normally USD24.99 O_O!

The concealer (ENCA Acne Control Total Concealer) is normally USD19.99, and it looks promising from the video demo. It helps remove redness and helps brighten the under-eyes as well.



I might just order the Makeup Solution and also the Pure Vitamin C20 serum! I've been wanting to try that one.

If you're interested in ordering, here are the direct links to all the options:

Option 1: Skin Care Solution
Option 2: Makeup Solution
Option 3: Total Solution

I think this is a pretty good deal, I'm sorry for sharing it so late in the game ;-; if only this lasted 2 weeks!

Anyway, I need to clean my makeup brushes ;-; not my favourite activity, but it's necessary.


'til then, take care!
Hopefully I'll have a review up soon :)

-Nisah-

SkinFood and Essence Cosmetics Mini Haul

Hi guys :)

This is really an impulse buy (and I've really been good with my shopping I think), I was having a bad day, and well, it's been ages since I've gone out.

Like, really. Shopping, movies, etc. None, I haven't done any of that.

Well, correct me if I'm wrong...but I really don't think I've bought anything in a while.

Well, except for the Raya sale I think :T

Anyway, I actually went to the The Mall to receive my giveaway gift from the newly opened SkinFood branch...but when I arrived, they didn't have it.

I'm like, "Okay, I'll look around."

SkinFood kills me with their awesome packaging, it was very hard to resist sometimes.

Then...I saw this hand cream.

Apparently it's a bestseller too.

Just look at that cow.

Photo taken at The Mall's food court, believe it or not.

I couldn't resist.

Plus it smelled nice and feels nice on the hands too.

The SA also gave me a sample of the Fresh Apple Sparkling Pore Gift Set because I was actually inquiring about the products (the spot serum specifically). I guess I'll try it out once my EH sample toner runs out (oh wait, I did buy something recently from EH...skincare needs :x)

From Paloma, I just got the things I've been wanting plus the lipstick in 07 Natural Beauty.

They didn't have testers yet for some of the items so you really have to depend on the colour provided. Luckily for me, the colour is exactly what I imagined it to be.

( u_u ) if I wasn't feeling shitty, I might have had more self-control.

Just feeling off since Eid.

Sigh.

'til then, take care :D

-Nisah-

Urban Decay Naked2 Basics

If you guys saw it on Instagram (well I saw it there) or FB, you'd have seen it.
Now, I don't need it, but it's on the website.

Oh yeah, here's the first one for comparison:

I have the fake one just so you know LOL

And here's the new one:

Naked2 Basics

It looks cool toned to me, I'm guessing a 3rd one might come out too then, something more pink LOL.

The shades.

Well, I don't think I'll get it, but I do like it lol.

It's really something you'd need maybe if you want to blend out shades.

Definitely a more basic palette in my eyes in comparison to the first one.

Question is:

Will YOU be getting it?

Here it is on their website:

Naked2 Basics

Sometimes I wonder if it's a prank.


Anyway, take care!

-Nisah-

Review: Etude House Face Conditioning Cream

Hi guys! It's August and it's been AGES since I've written a post or a review.
I totally forgot how to write one.

For this particular product, I'll try and make it short and sweet.
To sum it up: I LOVE THIS!

The product I'm reviewing is the Etude House 'Face Conditioning Cream'.

Etude House Face Conditioning Cream

PRODUCT INFORMATION

This is a 3 in 1 product that acts as a moisturiser, primer and also sunscreen! It contains 75g of product and has SPF25 PA++. It is housed in a squeeze tube. This product can be used on its own or under makeup, as it is advertised as the perfect adhesive for makeup. This product is made in Korea and should be used up within 12 months. The price in Brunei is BND21.90.

The translation for it on eBay. Excuse the Engrish lol

When I bought this, I asked about the other variant, which is the Face Conditioning Cream Light. I believe that that's meant to be more for oily skin? I might be wrong but there's not really much information around. Well, Etude doesn't have it yet.

Anyway, I went ahead and bought this on a whim. I saw Bubzbeauty raving about it and I know she has oily-combination-sensitive skin so I thought it'd be safe for me to use. Etude was having a sale that time too and I really needed a good product for my dry cheeks and oily T-zone!

I'm so glad I bought this.

To start off, I have a foundation that oxidises on me like crazy, so I never wore it. I went ahead and used this on the first day of Eid under the Revlon Colorstay Foundation. My face never looked better. Due to my recent hormonal breakouts and clogged pores, this product was a saviour! The foundation didn't even oxidise! And it barely moved!

Even using it under a BB cream that doesn't last long, it made it look nice, less cakey. I also noticed less fading...other than the area under my glasses and some areas I didn't bother covering properly (dark spots).

Depending on what foundation or BB cream I use, the oil control varies. For the Colorstay, it lasted about 5-6 hours without much oil, even my cousin commented my skin looked like healthy skin! For the BB creams I tried it with, one was about 3-4 hours an the other got oily just very slightly around the nose at the 2 hour mark. But all in all, my skin still looked presentable.

Since I have an oily T-zone, I apply it all over my face after toner. A little product goes a long way. The cream doesn't leave a noticeable white cast over my face. It leaves my skin smooth and plump, and slightly sticky, perfect for foundation to adhere to.

It doesn't really conceal my pores, so I do need a separate pore filler but I'm not complaining much.

I think I've found my holy grail primer (for the time being).
FINALLY!

---

PROS:

- Fantastic primer to make foundation last long.
- Oil control is good enough for me.
- Makes skin plump and smooth.
- Very lightweight.
- Doesn't clog my pores.
- Locally available.

CONS:

- Price is slightly high for the amount of product you get.
- Would have preferred a pump.
- The squeeze tube is too sensitive (easily squeezed).
- (EDIT) Somehow it doesn't work well with EH face products :/

Rating: 4.5/5 (First primer that doesn't clog my pores!)

Will I buy this again?

YES! I am curious about the Light variant though!

Do I recommend this?

Yes, but that depends on your skin needs.

Where can you find this?

You can buy this locally from Etude House Brunei.
You can also find this online :)

---

Hopefully that helps you out.

I'll take photos later hopefully if I wake up early lol.
I feel slightly sick.

'til then, take care!

Eid Mubarak :D

-Nisah-

Skin Problems Again...

It sucks.
It's already the 17th of July and I haven't updated in a while.

Right now I have the Etude House Wonder Pore Modeling Clear on my face.
Here's my impromptu first impression:

It smells....not so good. It smelled okay at first and then it smells weird.
It smells like spirulina?

I like that it's cooling on the skin though, but very hard to apply evenly. It takes a while to mix it up to a consistency you can use before it hardens.

I'm just using 1/4 of it, and I think I can use it for another 3-4 times. Granted that I store it well.
Now I'm just waiting for it to dry.

Have you guys shopped at Etude House recently? With the sale and stuff? I think I should get some more stuff before the promotion ends on the 19th. Not that I need anything else I think.

If you follow me on Instagram @beautyandfrogs you'd have seen my mini haul.
I've been refraining well from buying unnecessarily even with all the sales going on I guess.

I'll give myself a pat on the back. *pats*


Wanting to use up my makeup is a bit tricky I guess. I know some foundations and BB Creams won't break me out but having to finish them all with just one face? I've learned my lesson x.x;

Reviews? Yeah...I should, but pictures are tricky.


My battle with clogged pores are never-ending, especially on my jawline and cheeks. Even when I'm not wearing makeup it's still clogged so...might be my skincare. The only thing I notice that may have caused this is either my toner or the fact that I ran out of my trusty Neutrogena cleanser.



I want to believe it's the latter.
Or the cleansing cream or oil I use that's not really cleaning my face well?


My skin behaved so so well for months already and I freak out when it is out of balance.

I should get the Neutrogena cleanser again I guess!!!


It could also be a hormonal problem.
Well, my doctor did say something about my hormones are concerning. Just a little. I'll be having another blood test in September to see if I'd need to go see a OB/GYN or not.


I'll try and get some photos and reviews up soon...been feeling a bit down though.

Ah well.


How's your Ramadan been? Mine's been eh, because it's the first time I missed a lot of it due to period stuff. SO FUN.


'til then, take care!

-Nisah-

Makeup "Organising" + My First Shu Uemura :3

...or trying to.

I've bought myself an Ikea Trofast (that's mainly used to store toys) from HomeStar last month? Or so, but I remember it was when my parents were in the US. My room is a mess but I really want to put my makeup in one place. It's all over the place, really.

I bought the one that can have 10 small drawers, but I also got the medium sized drawer to store things that might be too big (palettes and such), or just backups. All in all, I have 8 small drawers and 2 medium ones. I bought 2 covers only (because to buy all of them? I think they were either BND2.50~3.50 or something. That's too much).

The cover has holes on them anyway, so it can't really protect the makeup from dust...that much.
My plan as of now, is to put transparent covers on them. It's workable for now.

I only have three drawers so far that's "filled".

In actuality, I just tossed them in there, especially the first drawer.

Base Makeup Section

Well, most of them.

This is where I put my primers, my BB creams, concealers and powders.

There are some things that I need to sift through and throw away, or give away, especially those that don't work with me (clogged my pores, broke me out) and old things.

I've been having very bad clogged pores, I noticed it from using the Pixy powder and a primer. Still need to re-test it to make sure though.

I need to review the Etude House Cotton Fit BB Cream and the Dr Jart+ one. Have I?

But my go-to BBs right now are those, and the Nymph Aura Volumer Baby Glow Balm. I LOVE THEM.

I seriously do!

I have a lot of scarring right now (because my face scars very easily), so I do dot some concealer around.

Really need my trusty Nexcare patches ASAP.

Guardian's been out of stock for months already. I am dying.

Random Section

For now, this stores my eye primers and cream shadows, single shadows, neutral palettes, foundations, blushes and contour products.

I might move this around still, to include some liners and lip products. I dunno.

I need a drawer where I store all my daily essentials. Well, "daily". I don't wear makeup often, especially since my skin is clogged as f***.

Small/Medium Palettes Section

These are mostly palettes that I don't really reach out for but I still do, when I want to.

I try and really rotate my palettes around so they all get used...but I need to really pack them on to actually make dents LOL.

I like how this drawer looks like. So colourful~

The plan is to have a drawer for my daily brushes, face base, other essentials....etc.

One drawer I'd depend on when I'm in a hurry and all that.

I think I'll have enough space.

I'm very bad with organising, I really am.

However, I'd like to think that this way, I know that I need to stop buying things I don't need. Even my friend doesn't encourage me to go to makeup stores anymore. I can window shop, but he'll remind me that I don't need it.


Frequent repurchases are normally body lotions, toothpaste, dry shampoo and makeup wipes anyway.


So yeah.

Things I always end up buying are eye primers, concealers and foundation/BB creams. I KNOW I don't need them.


My friend's like "Well, only if you review them"

And I'm like "........haha. I'll try."


Honestly, there are a lot of things I'd want to review...but I have this set template that I don't wanna change, but I need to.

I need to make my reviews shorter and straight to the point lol.

I love rambling.


BLEAH.



( '-' ) sigh.


Anyway, I got this!

Haruki Murakami S-Curler

I've been wanting this for a long time, regretted not getting it last year.

It would have been cheaper buying it back then....plus I wouldn't have needed to pay shipping!

Well, I've had a hard time sleeping thinking about wanting this, so I caved.

They also gave me a free box of falsies (quite dramatic).

I got mine from dolltodollcosmetics.com .

Here's the link to the S-Curler.

It takes time to get used to using it....my right eye was weirdly sensitive to it, but my left was okay.

So yeah :D HAPPY.

But the customs didn't release my SaSa package (I came late, so I need to wait for Pharmacy approval. PHOOEY)

BLEAH.

I hope it's all approved.

Anyway, yeah, I rambled.

'til then, take care!

-Nisah-

Coastal Scents Revealed 2 Palette, Revealed (and yeah, Pro Palette 2)

Don't mind my title lol

Anyway, I saw that Coastal Scents released the sibling for the first Revealed palette!
It's gorgeous!

Pic from Coastal Scents

The colours I think are a mix of Naked 3 and a bit of Nude'tude.

Maybe it's just me?

But I do like it :O

It's just gorgeous (I know I said that already but it is!)

It's really my kind of shadows~

Unfortunately I can't get anything new right now. I forbid myself. Palettes especially.

I've been itching to get single shadows but I do need to stop myself!

I guess if you're interested in colours similar to the Naked 3, I think this is a night one to have.

Oh yeah, Lorac's also released the Lorac Pro Palette 2 yesterday.

Talk about adding more to the neutral palette hype :D

Pic from mp.com

Personally, I'd choose the Revealed 2, just because there are some shades I would NEVER wear on this grey palette. I'm not a fan of the palette colour either.

That's just me though.

Anyway, the Revealed 2 is on sale for 48 hours for USD9.95!

If you wanna buy it, here's the link for your convenience.

( u.u ) palette fasting right now.

Using up what I have (with many unopened ones too.)

Anyway, what would you get out of the two?

I wanna know! Plus, tell me why~

Sorry for not blogging much ( >_< )

'til then, take care!

-Nisah-

Beauty Tools I Kinda Want...

...and some I might need :/

There's not a lot, but they are useful. At least one of these items, I REALLY do need.
I have a lot of tools, like the PMD and the facial sauna.

I also have the Sigma Spa Solutions (the full kit) and it sucks.
That's a big regret! I kinda wanna use it just for the body.

Anyway, here are some of them.

Photo sources are all from Mr. Google.

1)

Shu Uemura S-Curler

I really need this, the one I have right now sucks.

The one I use now is from Daiso. It's okay, considering I've had it for years...but it still pinches my lids sometimes!

I bought a small curler from Daiso also and that is even worse. I don't even know what I can use it for.

A big regret of mine was not getting this last year in KK.

It looks scary from the picture but considering that it doesn't have the sides to pinch, that's already selling it for me.

I'm not a big mascara user but it's starting to grow on me.  BOUGHT :D

2)

Benjabelle Brush Tree

I haven't decided which tree I'd get but I just want it for the fact that it has that middle thing.

I made my own, something similar BUT I'm lacking the middle support. It's very hard to work with (the one I made) and this just seems a lot easier.

But it's not a priority. If I can make the support one of these days, I wouldn't need this.

3)

Clarisonic Pro

*EDIT*

FOREO LUNA/LUNA mini

(Yeah, I think I'd prefer this over brush heads)

Okay, I don't necessarily need the pro one.

My face has been doing okay, I do have occasional break outs but that doesn't concern me as much.

My main concern are clogged pores. I HATE THEM.

They won't go away. I don't wanna invest in another clay mask until I finish what I already have but the masks I have aren't that good ;-;

Clogged pores, unclog yourselves, PLEASE.

---

I really need a new lash curler!

That's what I need now.

Oh, and new contact lenses I guess.

I've had my blood drawn out today for a test.

I haven't had my blood checked in a while.

Anyway, do you have any of these tools?

What do you think about them?

'til then, take care!

-Nisah-

De-Stressing Haul (The Body Shop, Catrice, etc.)

I don't remember the last time I shopped, I think I got a lipgloss from Etude but that's about it? Oh, and an applicator. I don't even keep track of what I buy anymore. I've focused all my money on the cats.

Either cat food or my food.

I'm going through all my makeup stuff, slowly. BUT there's this habit I still can't let go.

Buying new foundation or BB Cream even though I don't need it.

I've been stressed for almost two weeks now, not due to exams actually, but it's due to my horrible mood swings. I've been weepy, sad, and angry.

It made me want to get something.

But well, yesterday I did go out. I haven't gone out (other than the clinic and restaurant) in a while.

I rely a lot on the mister that it feels weird going out with family.

It feels naked.

ANYWAY.

I did not plan two things.

Can you guess what it is?

1. The Body Shop "Tea Tree Squeaky-Clean Scrub" (BND19.90)

- Not planned at all. I did ask the SA about what product is good for removing blackheads and clogged pores. She recommended this. I told her I didn't need a new cleanser but she said this is specifically just for scrubbing. I wasn't sure at first but I did try it on my hand, and I liked it. I used it yesterday and so far, I do like it. It stings a bit around the eyes, well the scent does.

2. The Body Shop "Vineyard Peach Body Butter" (BND24.90)

- I've been wanting a body butter for a while because my moisturisers just don't cut it. This is EXPENSIVE ( ;-; ) but I bit my tongue and got this. I was debating between four scents: this, the new raspberry, blueberry and a permanent lychee one. I LOVE peaches, so I got this. I'm so obsessed with the new matte packaging and the scents that I kinda want the rest now. It's on my wish list lol.

3. Catrice "All Matt Plus Shine Control Make Up" (BND9.90)

- I don't know why I got this but I did. I was thinking about it, looked up reviews and whatnot. I'm just so disappointed in the Revlon Colorstay oxidising on me that I need to find something else. I might just sell that one on a blogsale :/ I got this in the shade 030 Warm Beige. I would be so angry if this oxidises too.

4. Ibu Putih Strawberry (BND15)

- I've been wanting to try the Nina Skincare one, but I like the smell of strawberries, so I figured why not try this one first. Comparing pictures and all that, I think this is the original one. 

With some discounts...it all totalled to: BND63.72

*dies*

I need a job.

Do you wanna buy my paintings? ( ;-; )

I have cats to feed too.

Have you tried any of these products?

'til then, take care!

-Nisah-

Monthly Faves: April 2014

( '-' ) if any of you managed to read the post I did...I apologize.
I'm still not better, but I'm trying to force myself to feel better.

Let's forget about that and let's talk about my favourite products from last month :D

Wrong choice of background LOL

I have a lot of makeup products that I love, with some random things here and there.

1. LUSH "Lovely Jubblies Breast Cream"

- This was my mom's, but she wasn't using it, so I offered to take it from her. She bought it to use for her face though. I love the scent and I feel like it's very moisturising. I use it for my breasts because I feel like it's...uh, sagging a bit from me losing weight last year and I didn't realise it until now! I feel like with this cream and a proper bra, I think it lifted it a bit lol. Either way, the lovely smell lasts a long time! Pricy though x.x

2. Catrice "Evolution to Revolution Ultra Black Volume Mascara"

- I bought this because it was on sale (it's discontinued) and I quite like it! It's not waterproof, I haven't cried with it, but it lasts long enough before it kind of flakes. It has two wands for two looks: Look 1 is for natural volume and Look 2 is for dramatic volume. I prefer Look 1's wand :)

3. TheFaceShop "Faceit All About Gel Eyeliner"

- This was my sister's and she stopped using it so I took it from her. This gel liner is amazing. It doesn't smudge and it's just awesome! It's just a bit unpractical because she lost the brush and I keep forgetting where my liner brush went to lol.

4. Etude House "Aloha V-Line Slim Maker"

- I mostly use the contour side for my nose and the sides of my cheeks. It's a bit lighter than what I prefer but I've been liking it more, especially since I'm using the Real Techniques Contour Brush. It blends nicely and is build-able without looking muddy. The highlighter is pretty but I rarely use it.

5. Etude House "Sweet Recipe Cupcake All Over Color"

- I've done a review on this here. I've been loving this for the cheeks and lips. It's just so flattering on my skintone, but I do need lipbalm because it's not moisturising.

6. Etude House "Nymph Aura Volumer Baby Glow Balm"

- I wanna say holy grail but this is not in the permanent line I think ;-; I have oily-combination skin and this is still awesome on me. I would skip moisturiser and just go straight to this after toning my skin. I don't need a primer with this because the lasting power is good. The coverage is medium to full. The applicator is also what makes this product a winner, so I bought an extra one :)

7. Catrice "All Round Concealer"

- I've hit pan on two shades. The lightest shade does not suit me at all so I might mix it with something else. The product doesn't last that long but it's still handy to have around. It blends easily too.

8. essence "I ♥ Stage Eyeshadow Base"

- Still my go-to primer. Full review here. 

9. Makeup Revolution "Iconic 3 Palette"

- Lovely shades that are suitable for everyday use. It blends nicely! It looks like I'm barely making a dent because I really don't need much to build up colour, especially for the darker shades. It's an everyday natural palette that I am reaching for all the time.

10. Etude House "Dear Darling Roll Roll Gloss"

- I didn't look up the shade name but it's #10. It's just a lovely colour, the purple made me buy it. A review for other shades can be found here.

11. Dolly Wink "Liquid Eyeliner in Deep Black"

- I found it hard to use this at first, but I do like it. It doesn't last on my lower lash line unfortunately, but it applies quite nice on the upper lash line. Quite pricy though.

12. Etude House "BB Cream Cotton Fit"

- Good oil control? Not really. However, it is medium to full coverage and I rarely need to apply concealer when I use this. Actually it's the same with the Glow Balm too. It blends nicely and W24 is a great shade match for me. Does not crease around my laugh lines (not as bad as other foundations/BB creams). It looks quite natural on me.

13. PlusWhite "5 Minute Speed Whitening Gel"

- It works gradually without hurting my teeth. It does make it sensitive, but just a little. I'm happy because it actually works, but I need to be diligent. I drink a lot of tea so this is a must.

14. SkinFood "Avocado Rich Eye Balm"

- It moisturises nicely without giving me milia seeds. A little goes a long way and it smells heavenly.

15. OraLabs "Chap Ice Cherry Lip Balm"

- I lost my Baby Lips so I turned to this. It's actually quite moisturising and I use it a lot. Easy to carry around too!

16. Travel Size Stippling Brush

- It's from the fake M.A.C Hello Kitty set. It's poor quality BUT it works so well with applying cream or powder blushes! I don't look like a clown for once :D

17. Real Techniques "Contour Brush"

- It's because of this brush that I am now contouring my cheeks again. It just does a terrific job at it and I can't be without it, I love it so much!

18. Real Techniques "Buffing Brush"

- My new best friend at buffing my foundation and BB Cream. It just does the job so beautifully.

PHEW.

That was longer than intended.

Do you like any of the products I faved?

If there are any products you'd like me to write a full review on, do leave a comment :)

'til then, take care!

-Nisah-