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.

---

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: 4/5 (I've changed my mind because this base is actually very good to me)

Will I buy this again?

YES. But I wanna buy the all about matt! foundation and try it with this.

Do I recommend this?

After they discontinued this, I changed my mind because it's actually a VERY good base in comparison to the expensive bases i've tried.

Where can you find this? 

Locally from Paloma :)

Other countries might have drugstores that carry essence as well.

---

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-

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-

April Collective Haul + Mini Reviews/First Impressions

Hey guys :D
First post in April, oops!

Well, I can't post consistently anymore, I'm sorry.

This isn't even a review, wow.
Well, maybe mini reviews/first impressions?

Instagram pic, sorry XD

I collected these things for the past two weeks I guess?

Some were on sale, actually, most of them were!

Let's list them out!

1. Holika Holika BB Soda Pore Cleansing Foam

- I really wanted a new deep cleaning cleanser, especially one targeted for pores and makeup removal, so I got this. I haven't tried it. I nearly did, but maybe when I cut open my Neutrogena!

2. Tony Moly Dr. Tony AC Control Whitening Eye Serum

- Haven't tried this but I thought AC was for acne? Eye...acne? I wonder if I can use it on my face instead? But I'll try it on my eyes once I finish some of my eye gels/creams :)

3. Tony Moly Simply Style Makeup Eraser

- Got this because I wanna start using mascara more often and eyeliner again. Haven't tried it.

4. Tony Moly Intense Care Galactomyces Essence Mist

- I've used this mist before I sleep twice, it doesn't break me out so far, and it doesn't feel sticky. Will continue to use it more. I got this as a prize from Tony Moly Brunei :)

5. essence My Skin Caring Cleansing Wipes Pomegranate & Bamboo

- This is my 3rd repurchase! I like that it doesn't break me out and it helps remove makeup quite well. Maybe not the best but it IS quite good for the price. I might try the other variant next time. I dunno if a full review is needed, but if you want to know more, leave a comment?

6. Rosken Skin Repair Sensitive Skin Cream

- I normally use the one for Dry Skin but this was on sale, so I got it. 500ml for me lasts about a month? Or less? Depending on how my skin is. Maybe even more than a month. I tried it a bit and I still prefer the one for Dry Skin. This is lightweight though!

7. Double Dragon Minyak Kayu Putih

- Not a beauty product but I got this for the sake of my tummy haha. Not yet tried.

8. essence Pure Skin Anti-Shine Pore Refining Serum

- Got this to see if it'd help reduce sebum...and it kinda did. It works to an extent. Still in the midst of trying it out, but so far, I like it.

9. Catrice Evolution to Revolution Ultra Black Volume Mascara

- This is discontinued I believe, but it smells like the essence one I got, so it's still good? Didn't hurt my eye or anything. It's not waterproof, but it's quite good. Smudges a bit, just a bit. But I really like the natural step!

10. Holika Holika Vita Up! Facial Water Mist (GREEN)

- I don't know why I thought I need it, but I got it. I do have some mists already opened, so I might not use this yet.

-

That's all I got :D

Once my parents get back from the US, I'll finally do my belated birthday haul/gift post.

I just need to wait for some of them.

I will also have a mini haul for something I guess :3

We'll see.

I should be sleeping!

'til then, good night!

Take care!

-Nisah-

Products I've Been Loving! (Makeup)

Hi guys! I have so many products I've been using recently, sometimes I can't even remember!

I think I should do a separate one for skincare, but one product sneaked into this post LOL. I was taking a pic on Instagram and I noticed that it can't fit all my faves! I won't talk about the skincare product here I guess.

Anyway, here are the products:

Love these!

1. theBalm "Nude'tude Palette"

- I've been using this palette a lot recently! I've barely made a dent though, because you know what? A little goes a long way! My fave shades are Snobby, Selfish and Sexy!

2. essence "Stay Natural Concealer"

- This is a recent favourite. It's not super long lasting, but for a couple of hours, it's good. Affordable and it covers well, set it with a good powder and you're good to go (as in, increase the longevity.)

3. Cyber Colors "24H Eyebrow Pen"

- It's in '01 Gray', and applies so nicely. It lasts a long time (as the name suggests) and blends easily too. Sometimes I can accidentally overdo it, but since it's a bit waxy, you won't have that problem as much.

4. essence "I ♥ Stage Eyeshadow Base"

- My go-to primer nowadays. I love it a lot!. You can read the review here.

5. SkinFood "Tomato Sun Cream SPF36 PA++"

- My new best friend when I don't want to wear a foundation or BB cream. I don't know why but it just makes my face look a lot put together! I normally wear it at night when I go out XD I'm actually running out of it! It's not too heavy and blends so easily.

6. Rimmel London "Stay Matte Pressed Powder"

- In 'Transparent'. I didn't think this powder keeps me matte for 5 hours, but it really does a good job. Paired with my sunscreen, this is awesome! There's so much product too!

7. The Body Shop "Born Lippy Stick Lip Balm"

- I recently reviewed this. It's my go-to lip balm right now.

8. Revlon "Super Lustrous Matte Lipstick"

- Totally loving 'Mauve it Over' right now! Lovely MLBB lipstick that's not too pink, not too nude. It's just lovely! Doesn't dry me out. Review here.

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

- In 'Raspberry Mousse Cake'. I use this as a cream blush and it's just lovely. Easy to blend and the colour looks so natural! You can read my full thoughts here.

10. Etude House "Dr. Oil Solution Anti-Shine Mist"

- Recent favourite. Really helps keep the sebum at bay, especially when paired with an oily face product, like BB creams! Kinda sticky.

11. elianto "Cream Concealer (or something LOL)"

- In '03 Warm'. Perfect shade for my skin if I don't wear anything too light! I have a hard shade to match! My face is a lot pinker and darker than the rest of my body that's yellow based. It really does the trick when I don't want to wear a foundation. Just spot concealing and I'm good to go!

--

That's it for the makeup products I'm loving so far. I don't think the sunscreen counts as makeup, but I generally treat it as part of my makeup routine! So it's makeup to me~

I think if I was given a choice, I think I can survive with just these as my makeup products. No eyeliner? That's true. I don't generally use it unless I have a lot of time! With my thick rimmed glasses, you can barely see them anyway!

I will definitely do some in-depth reviews for some of the products! Anything you'd like to see first?

'til then, take care!

-Nisah-

Review: essence Soft Touch Mousse Make-up

Hi guys :D
I'm back with another review of one of my favourite foundations!

It's the essence Soft Touch Mousse Make-up in '01 Matt Sand'.

essence Soft Touch Mousse Make-up

PRODUCT INFORMATION

the make-up range with a super delicate mousse texture gives your face a smooth and natural-looking matt complexion while allowing your skin to breathe freely.

This foundation contains 16g of product and is housed in a small glass jar with a plastic cap. The product is made in Germany and should be used up within 24 months. There are 4 shades in total for this foundation (so it's kinda hard to match some darker and even lightest skin tone). This can be found at Paloma for BND5.90 (I believe it used to be BND7.90? I think I bought it around that price).

Dermatologically Tested.

INGREDIENTS

CYCLOPENTASILOXANE, DIMETHICONE, DIMETHICONE CROSSPOLYMER, SILICA, PHENYL TRIMETHICONE, CYCLOHEXASILOXANE, TRIBEHENIN, TALC, C30-45 ALKYL METHICONE, C30-45 OLEFIN, TRIETHOXYCAPRYLYLSILANE, METHICONE, PARAFFINUM LIQUIDUM (MINERAL OIL), PHENOXYETHANOL, METHYLPARABEN, ETHYLPARABEN, MAY CONTAIN: CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499 (IRON OXIDES), CI 77891 (TITANIUM DIOXIDE).

I've been using this mousse foundation for nearly a year? It's been a few months really, maybe close to 10 months, on and off. Since I have a lot face makeup to use up, it's a miracle that I actually "hit pan" on this.

Whee! I can see the bottom!

What I love about this product is the texture. It's very silicone-y due to the dimethicone so it applies quite soft on the face. I sometimes use my fingers, and I sometimes use a flat top kabuki. Both work pretty well for application. I never used a sponge for it. It blurs the pores I have but it's not enough on its own to cover pigmentation. It settles into the small fine lines but it's not that obvious.

Once applied, it gives a matte finish with light to build-able medium coverage. I think it can even go to full if you really buffed it in rather than layer a chunk in one go. The mousse itself is quite crumbly toward the end which is weird.

The oil control is good and would be better with a good primer. I don't need to set this with a powder at all, unless I use a separate concealer for it.

However, I have to point out that this shade is a tad too light on me! The SA matched this to me ( x.x ) and I just agreed. I think she tried to match it to my hand instead of my neck that time. Either way, I can still work with it.

Mousse-y, slightly crumbly when swatched.

I never noticed the scent but now that I smell it, there is a slight one. Nothing offensive, in fact, it's pleasant. At least this is pleasant. Another review for an essence foundation that I recently bought will come soon. Fragrance is its worst asset.

Blended to cover the vein.
You can see how it settled into the small lines a bit.

That being said, overall, you really don't feel this foundation on your face at all! It's really light and the skin can still breathe, which is awesome!

---

PROS:

-Locally available.

-Quite affordable.

-Build-able coverage.

-Lasts about 4-5 hours (with touch-up).

-Smells nice.

-Good packaging.

-Very lightweight.

-Matte finish with an okay oil control.

-Does not clog my pores.

CONS:

-Limited shades.

-Ingredients aren't the most natural.

-The jar might not be travel-friendly.

-Settles into fine lines.

-Not good for dry skin.

-Smears on my oily t-zone.

Rating: 4/5 (Love this!)

Will I buy this again?

Yes! Hopefully in a matching shade this time.

Do I recommend this?

Try it out :D You might like it. I don't know how much it differs to the Catrice one though.

Where can you find this?

Locally at Paloma.
In Malaysia, I think at selected Watsons.
In the US, I guess maybe Ulta?


---


That's it for my review, hopefully it was somewhat helpful!
Next on the foundation list would be another essence one.

Have you tried this? What do you think about it?

Leave it in the comments, I'd love to know!

'til then, take care!

-Nisah-

Review: essence Hugs & Kisses Eyeshadow Palette

Hi everyone :D
I'm back with another review of a palette I got recently. I used it a lot during the last 2 weeks, even as a first impression I'd have been able to deduce what I thought about this cute palette.

The palette I'm talking about is essence's 'Hugs & Kisses' Eyeshadow Palette.
It does have a name, it's called '01 Love at First Sight'.

essence 'Hugs & Kisses' Eyeshadow Palette

Product Information:

This limited edition palette contains four 'trendy' 1.8g eyeshadows that aims to deliver 'striking colour effects' and comes with a 'brush' (no, not a brush, it's not a brush, what are you saying??). It is made in PRC (People's Republic of China) and should be used up within 24 months. It costs BND4.90 at Paloma.

It has a basic guide on how to apply the colours.

It comes in a cute cardboard box packaging (nothing fancy compared to theBalm or Benefit, no) and it's quite light. It's not sturdy as I accidentally ripped the ribbon out.

Oopsie.

This palette has four eyeshadow shades that are quite wearable, maybe not for everyone but it's okay to me! They don't have names, but I'll call them L, O, V and E :D

Might not be true to life.

The shadows aren't super pigmented, no, but it's not bad. It actually reminds me a lot of the e.l.f Essential Custom Eyes. The difference is that the latter is significantly more pigmented. I've swatched some of the essence singles, and I gotta say that it doesn't compare. The eyeshadow singles are more buttery.

Some of the shadows in this palette applies patchy, which is a shame. They work best with a primer, and applied with the sponge tip applicator that came with it. I tried my brushes and they just refused to be picked up D: but luckily, the applicator works well.

Swatches: L. O. V. E

I find that the dark purple included in this isn't dark enough to define the eyes, so it's definitely just for light looks. Strictly cute and natural looking eyes. The pop of colour comes from the lime green, which I quite enjoy using but it really has weak pigmentation. My favourite shade to use is L.

Unfortunately it does need a base for it to show up on my skintone, and you have to be careful when you blend because L, O and E can easily be over-blended that it just disappears into each other!

I kinda wished there was a mirror?
Although I generally don't use the mirrors in palettes!

---

PROS:

- Available locally (for a limited time)
- Affordable.
- Blends easily (maybe TOO easily)
- Travel-friendly.
- Has an applicator.
- Cute packaging.
- Wearable colours.

CONS:

- Not pigmented.
- Some shades apply patchily.
- No mirror.
- Shades are pretty much the same.
- No defining shades.
- Fades easily.
- First two ingredients are talc and mica.


Rating: 2/5 (Not worth buying if you have many other palettes)

Will I buy this again?

Nope. I kinda regretted buying it. But fortunately, I do get use out of it.

Do I recommend this?

Nope, just buy the single shadows!

Where can you find this?

Locally, at Paloma.
You can find this brand almost everywhere nowadays. Depends on where you live I guess.


---

Overall, it's not something I don't use, it's just not that impressive.
The redeeming quality is mostly the packaging.

Have you ever just bought an item because it looked cute?


Leave it in the comments!

'til then, take care!

-Nisah-

( ;w; ) Accidental Paloma Haul + Random Pics

I woke up from a bad dream today.
With bad chest pains, so I asked if we could go to The Mall.
I wanted to buy something from Paloma.

I had in mind two items: the All Round Concealer from Catrice and also essence's Longlasting Eye Pencil in black or the peachy one. I got both items. I bought the black one because they didn't have the peachy one I think. I didn't really take my time for the first round because I needed to eat.

Catrice All Round Concealer (BND5.90)
essence Longlasting Eye Pencil in 01 Black Fever (BND2.90)

I tried the concealer out a bit, first impressions weren't that perfect.

It was creamier than essence's Forget it! 3 in 1 Concealer (which I need to review) but I find it hard to build up. I only tried it on my arm though, to cover a scar.

I had this for dinner btw. My favourite Teriyaki Chicken from Hot Point
(but with a different sauce than usual)
I asked for garlic sauce!

After I finished eating, I went to the top floor Paloma because my family was busy elsewhere.
( ;^; ) I saw cute things.

So I asked dad if he could lend me money *gets shot by readers*
He knew what I was buying though.

So, I was surprised he even allowed it LOL.
He knew it was makeup.

He must have been in a good mood.

So for these items, my dad paid for it (spoiled brat, right here)

essence Hugs & Kisses Eyeshadow Palette  in 01 Love at First Sight (BND4.90)

I swear I refrained from buying this before. I was quite vulnerable due to the nightmare I had. Pink was screaming out to me.

"BUY ME. BUY ME."

"NO."

"BUY US!!!"

...and so I did.

essence Hugs & Kisses Blush in 01 Dating Prince Charming (BND3.90)
essence Hugs & Kisses Lip Scrub in 01 Be My Valentine (BND2.90)
essence Hugs & Kisses Lip Tint in 01 Sugar Baby Love (BND2.90)

I guess other than the cuteness, I was drawn to the price range too.

Because I swear, still, I refrained from this range before.

( o.o ) Pink must have an effect on me today.

The lip tint is like a more subtle hot pink, but it's almost neon!!!!

I also got these shoes!

Mint shoes.

Whaddya call these man.

MINT (with bad lighting)

This was mom's treat.

The shoes are comfy as fuck.

I also nearly bought two skirts ;w; they would have cost me BND20.

ARGH.

MONEY COME FALL DOWN PLSTHX.

Shawl Model Wannabe

I used my Theodora palette for a neutral look, with the Dolly Wink liquid liner.

I have beef with my favourite base, the essence one.

It creases whenever I use Urban Decay!! LIKE WHAT.

Granted, it did take about 5 hours to crease, but still. HOW COME.

Odd.

I used my Kate Mineral Loose Foundation and I was amazed.

I rarely use it because the powder gets everywhere BUT it's so good at oil control. Ish.

I only got oily around the 5 hour mark.

Okay, it's not amazeballs but it beats foundation and BB Cream.

I should try using a primer next time.

Anyway, random pic dump!

I tried gyaru makeup the other day :D
The lashes and the circle lenses really make the look. Plus the wig.

I also tried a Geisha/Maiko inspired look.
I really wanted to try and follow the real one but I didn't study the makeup too much.
So I'll redo this lol. I only did half of my face too.

Last week, we had three birthday cakes to eat!

First nephew's birthday cake.
Iron Man!

Happy Pill nephew's birthday cake.
Pocoyo!

 Lastly, mom's cake.

Yummy cake.

On another note, I gained back the weight I lost.

*shoots self*

So it's back to square one.

I lost motivation after a month. I was doing so good too.

A MONTH.

I'll start again. It won't be too hard.

Unfortunately my audition pics would have to be me with my fatness intact. DAMN.

I'll work out a bit before I sleep.

I need Shopaholic Rehab.

I'm feeling a bit sick again! Every time I need to record songs, I get sick. It's like a curse!

GRR.

'til then, take care.

Keep your wallets safe, because mine is crying.

-Nisah-

August Collective Haul *Hits Self*

I AM SO SORRY FOR THE LACK OF BLOGGING.
OMG.

Can't believe it's been exactly a MONTH since my last update. I'm so sorry :(
I've been procrastinating a lot.


Things happened too....hm, but that'll be for another time I believe.

I will have a giveaway up soon, btw. Once I have the time to like, make the video for it!
The bad thing about this post is that, once I took all the photos, I realized that I missed some things...I'll put it in a bracket somewhere.


For this haul post, there are some items for the giveaway too lol. So yeah, not all is for me.

I went to Miri twice, but to be honest, I don't think I bought THAT many stuff. It's just that some of it is more expensive x___x I'm trying not to buy anything this month BUT I need a mascara D: I kinda want an essence mascara. Any recommendations?


Anyway, moving on to the haul...

Here are all the things (minus some nose pore strips, toothpaste and some cream)

Some are from Paloma, but most are from Miri.

These are all collective from Watsons, Guardian, Tony Moly, TheFaceShop, SaSa (yes, I had to go back there >_> you'll see why).

Let's break it down, shall we? I will add some mini thoughts to the items I've tried.

Body mist, Gel eyeliners and a Handcream.

I got the body mist from Paloma. It was BND4.90 I think. I forgot the price by now. It smells identical to Victoria's Secret Body Mist in 'Love Spell'. Well, close enough. It smells more sweet I think but it's very similar. It's called 'Enchanted Kiss'. You can say they are copies of VS.

For the IN2IT gel eyeliners, I really only wanted a matte black gel eyeliner that would last well. This was fine, but it was too creamy for my liking. I will giveaway the brown one because I have a lot of browns already.

The hand cream is from TFS. I haven't opened it but it smelled okay when I sampled it. I preferred Tony Moly's hand creams I guess. Smells more natural.

Brush cleanser, De-pigmentor serums and a Lipbalm.

The brush cleanser is from Cyber Colors at SaSa. It wasn't that good, to be honest. Works better for eye brushes over face brushes, that's for sure. I wouldn't repurchase it once I run out I believe.

These nanowhite de-pigmentor serums were once my HG scar fading serum but so far, I think it doesn't work as well anymore. I don't know why. These things aren't cheap either :/ but I'll make it work again. I changed my skincare routine, maybe that's why.

A girl can't have too many lipbalms! I decided to buy another one of this variant because I love it so much. I have a lot of lipbalms to burn to be honest...

Lip products, Eye primer, Concealer, Eyeliner and Stick eyeshadow.

Most of the things here are from Tony Moly.

I've used three of the products here. Some of them are for my next giveaway haha.

I liked the products so much that I kinda want to give some away~

The slim lipstick from TM is such a joy on the lips. It's not drying, it's convenient and it smells lovely. Unfortunately they ran out of the colour I liked so I bought a more plummy one for the giveaway. It's definitely something I'd repurchase in the future.

I have the Petit Bunny Gloss in the yellow variant, so I decided to get two of them...so the winner of the giveaway can choose which one they liked more :3 both are cute.

I've also tried the eyeliner. That's from SilkyGirl. I thought it'd be my HG but so far, it smudges on my lower lashline ): I still can't find my HG black eyeliner yet! It's good though, for a drugstore brand.

The eye primer from TFS is also surprisingly good! Unfortunately it's kinda oily LOL.

I haven't opened the concealer and the stick eyeshadow from TM.

MORE ITEMS.

I've tried both CandyDoll products. They were kind of a letdown for the price :O

The lipgloss applies smooth but there's barely any colour. It's super sticky too!

The lipstick I have is in Vanilla Beige? It makes me look like a corpse XD acts more like a lip concealer for my skintone I guess!

theBalm's eyeshadow is for the giveaway also! It's in my favourite shade, Mischievous Marissa. It's not included in any of the Shady Lady palettes just so you know!

The lipbalm here is for a giveaway :3 (I'm giving away three kinds of lip products wtf)

essence stuffs here are from Paloma, obviously. I haven't tried the matt powder and you guys know how much I love the eye primer! However, I found out that it works best with SOME eyeshadow brands and works not so well with others. I think matte eyeshadow works best for it because my Urban Decay eyeshadows (satin, shimmery ones) kinda creased under 5 hours D:

The two eggs are from TM. I needed stuff for my blackheads.

I prefer the brown egg over the white one, that's for sure!

PHEW!

That's it for my collective haul.

I will make sure to do in-depth reviews for some of these things~

If you have any requests just tell me okay?

I really want to blog more often again x_x

Sorry again for slacking!

'til then, take care!

Have a nice day!

-Nisah-

Review: essence Long Lasting Cream Eyeshadows

Hi guys :D
Today I have a review of the essence Long Lasting Cream Eyeshadows!

I'll be reviewing two shades, one is from the 'stay all day' line and the other one is from the limited edition line ('circus circus').

The shades are 'COPPY RIGHT' and 'IT'S MAGIC'.

stay all day long lasting eyeshadow in '01 COPPY RIGHT'

circus circus long lasting eyeshadow in '01 IT'S MAGIC'

Product Information:

These cream eyeshadows are housed in a plastic jar and contain 5.5g of product, which is actually more  than other cream eyeshadows I have (other than the Tony Moly one but that doesn't list the product weight). Product should be used within 12 months, which is same with theBalm -this does dry up quite easily similarly. This product is priced at BND5.90 and can be bought from Paloma.

It's separated from the sides already.
Taken with flash.

'COPPY RIGHT' actually looks like a taupe-y colour rather than a coppery one. It's an eyeshadow that contains an acceptable amount of shimmer and would most likely compliment any skin tone. I don't have a shade like this in my cream eyeshadow collection so it's a nice addition. There's a faint purple pigment in this shade. Works well on its own and as a base for neutral or smokey looks.

It's a bit hard in the jar, so you need to kind of dig into it a bit. It applies patchy but is very pigmented.   It sets very fast so if you want to blend, make sure to do it fast. Once it sets, it won't budge!

Taken with flash.

As for 'IT'S MAGIC', it's a shimmery gold shade. Gold would definitely compliment many skin tones well, and it's quite different from 'Base Hit Kit'. This is a lot easier to work with than COPPY RIGHT and applies more smoother too. As with the other shade, this sets very fast. This works well as a base or on its own.

Both of these shades, last about 5-6 hours on me without creasing. The colour would fade a bit but it's still fine. I've never tried this with an eye primer because I don't need it. It holds up well on its own. Mind you, I didn't even powder my oily eyelids before I applied it. I've also tried to see if it'd last with sweat so I did try it while running on the treadmill.

I say with a bit of sweat, it still holds up well, about 4-5 hours!

The colours actually remind me of two colours from Urban Decay's Theodora Palette. They swatch a  bit like Bewitch and the gold half of Spell!

Swatches: (L) COPPY RIGHT, (R) IT'S MAGIC.
Taken with flash.

To be fair, I've never tested it as long as theBalm but i think it'd hold because the texture is about the same. I guess due to it being harder in texture, it holds up well on my oily lids.

I put it up to the test with a Maybelline Color Tattoo and this lasted longer for me. Both didn't crease but the Color Tattoo faded a lot more. Plus, this is more pigmented.

The Color Tattoo is creamier, yes, but somehow I'd reach out more for this.

I've never used this as an eyeliner so I can't say much about it.

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PROS:

-Lasts about 5-6 hours (may even stretch 8 hours but I've never tried it for that long) without setting/without primer.
-Works well as a base for eyeshadows to stick to.
-Affordable.
-Locally available.
-Sweat-proof.
-Comparable to more acclaimed drugstore brands.
-Has more product than other brand cream eyeshadows.
-Travel friendly due to it's light weight.
-Sets very fast and doesn't budge.

CONS:

-Applies quite patchily.
-Colours are limited.
-Hard to blend.
-Product dries up easily.
-Not creamy.
-I don't like the shimmers as much.

Rating: 5/5 (Comparable to my HG in a sense that it doesn't budge, it gets its rating due to its affordable price)

Will I buy this again?

Yes, but not now. I have too many cream eyeshadows. In fact, I don't reach for COPPY RIGHT that much. I might sell it on my pre-loved items' blog sale!

Do I recommend this?

Yes, but only if you don't mind a product that's not too creamy. You can make it creamier with alcohol maybe but yeah, it'll dry up easily.

Where can you find this?

In Brunei, you can find this at Paloma at an affordable price.
In the US, you can find this at Ulta.
Everywhere else, maybe drugstores or even online shops!

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I hope you found this review helpful :)
Have you ever tried these cream eyeshadows?

Do you prefer powder eyeshadows or cream ones?

Leave some comments if you want :D

'til then, take care!

-Nisah-

P.S: Those residing in Brunei, do check out the bracelet giveaway I'm having right now :D

Review: essence 'I ♥ STAGE Eyeshadow Base'

Hi guys :D
I missed blogging ( ;-; ) My net died suddenly for a few days!!
Who'd have known? The kittens caused it!

I was looking at my stash and like, of all eyeshadow bases I have, this one, I've been reaching for a lot more!

essence 'I ♥ STAGE Eyeshadow Base'

Product Information:

A skin-tone eyeshadow base from essence. It is an 'eyeshadow base for a long-lasting eye make-up result. Ready for stage'. It contains 4ml of product and lasts for 6 months after opening. Made in Poland. Price: BND4.90 (at Paloma) *It's BND3.90 now*
For comparison, locally available primers are priced at:
BND10~19.90 (even more, actually) at the Korean cosmetic outlets (Tony Moly, Holika Holika, Etude House, etc.)

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Onto the review~

At first, I was 'eh' about this eyeshadow base.
Was it as good as my e.l.f? Was it as good as my HG (theBalm Cream Eyeshadow)?

My first impression of it, it was so-so.

I wasn't wow-ed by it, but it was okay.
Application was nice, product blended well on the lid, eyeshadow colours become more vibrant, etc.
But I didn't know why I didn't fall in love.

For the price though, it was a steal!!

A doe-foot applicator for ease of use.

For a while it wasn't something I was reaching for so I lent it to my sis.
When I found out she wasn't using it, and when I just remembered that I HAD a skin-tone eyeshadow base, I asked for it back and gave it another chance.


Then, I fell in love.
After comparing it with my other bases, this product was quite good!

I have a LOT of bases, you see.
This is like e.l.f but a lot more liquidy and has some skin-tone pigments to even out your lid colour if you have veins or dark lids.

Product Swatch.

It has a mild milky foundation scent (which I despise) but you can only smell it if you SMELL it. I gagged a bit lol.

It's very light and sturdy, and quite travel-friendly.

With this primer, my eyeshadows stay crease-free for 5-6 hours *It lasted my whole Miri trip, that's about 12 hours!! NO CREASING* Mind you, my eyelids are super oily!
This isn't heavy duty like my HG but for a cheap primer, THAT IS GOOD.

Heck, even in airconditioned rooms it can last about 8 hours!

Used Sleek's Au Naturel in 'Noir'.
I piled on for the without primer :/ it was bad.

For a skin-tone base, this is my favourite by far.
It beats UD's 'Eden' and also my M.A.C Paint Pot in 'Soft Ochre'.
Heck, this lasts longer than the Maybelline Color Tattoo >_>; maybe the colours I opened are just BAD.

I love to use my Paint Pot with this, just to add a bit more oomph.

While I was cleaning my wrist, I actually had to add a bit of force to remove the swatch with the primer!! It got a bit red.

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Anyway~

PROS:

-Super affordable.
-Locally available.
-Eyeshadow stays crease-free for 5-6 hours (even 8 hours)
-Blends easily, doesn't tug on the skin (I'M LOOKING AT YOU, EDEN!!)
-Comparable to more pricy brands.
-Has a good applicator.
-Eyeshadow colours pop more.
-Travel friendly.
-Evens out eyelid colour.

CONS:

-Only available at Paloma.
-Cheaper abroad.
-May not suit some eyelids.
-May not be available readily some places.
-Some may find applicator to not be hygienic.
-Product can separate.


Rating: 5/5 (Love this product, okay? It shits over other raved products and it's freakin' affordable)

Will I buy this again?

HECK YES. With all my heart, I'd sell my Eden and get 5-6 more of these LOL.

Do I recommend this?

This is the tricky part. People I know don't really like this product XD; so I dunno!! Yes, if you don't mind shelling out a bit of money (Just a fraction of other primer prices). Eyelids differ though.

Where can you find this?

Locally, you can find it at Paloma :D
Abroad, maybe drugstores. You can even find it online, I believe.

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I hope you find this helpful!
If you've tried the product, do you love it? Do you hate it?

Tell me in the comments below :D
How much is it in your country?


'til then, take care!!

-Nisah-

Favourite Products: April 2013

Hello there~

It's time for another favourites post!
In this post, I'll have a quick review of everything. Should something needs an in-depth review, I will note it down~

As usual I'll start with lip products!

1)

Sasatinnie Dolly Lip Smoothie in '05 Green Apple'

I'm running out of my Baby Lips so I turned to this product. This is not tinted, moisturises well and I'm having a hard time finishing it! Even though it moisturises, I'm not a fan of the scent. I'd prefer it without the scent. I don't think it smells like green apples at all. It smells like...hand soap. So yeah, hand soap on the lips, not so pleasant. I don't like the packaging though, it kinda cracked. At least it does its job well.

2)

essence Ready For Boarding Lip & Cheek Creme in '02 beauty on tour'

Even though its a dual purpose cream product, I only use it on my cheeks. I'm not sure if it'd look good on the lips because of the consistency but then again, I haven't tried. This product is a lot more emollient than the sasatinnie cream blush and on the cheeks, it looks like a dolly flush. It lasts quite well on the cheeks and doesn't fade at all. It smells fruity. It also blends quite easily.

3)

Etude House Look at My Eyes in 'Milk Cocoa' and 'Lemon Sherbet'

These are my go-to eyeshadows when I don't feel like mixing and matching. Over a base, I have the yellow all over my eyelids and then the brown on the outer corner. Simple and clean, gives a nice subtle smokey look if I used a heavier hand with the brown. 'Milk Cocoa' is a lovely and pigmented chocolate-y colour with gold shimmers. A little goes a long way with this one. 'Lemon Sherbet' on the other hand, is quite sheer but build-able. You'd need a strong base to keep this vibrant.

4)

Tony Moly Matte Eyeshadow in '14 Cappuccino'

This is a good crease colour. Smooth, build-able and for a matte colour, it's quite pigmented. Well, over my brown-ish skin, it is, anyway. It looks yummy too. I think you can use it to contour your nose too if you have fairer skin. I find it nice that Tony Moly has nice matte colours when Etude House usually has more shimmer. I usually pair this with any eyeshadow.

5)

The Skin Shop Recovery Solution Cream Natural Care System

Since I ran out my Papaya Gel Moisturiser, I had nothing that works just as well. I used this before but back then my acne was so evident, I didn't think it helped. As for this, I need to use a light hand to make sure I didn't apply too much and end up clogging my pores. Does it help with healing my acne scars? Perhaps. Maybe, maybe not but I do like it. Plus, it has a nice scent. It's not very moisturising though, since my cheeks are generally quite dry and flaky. I like it, I do use it a lot, but it's not my holy grail. Plus, on normal days, this is friggin' expensive.

6)

essence Pure Skin natural cover moisturiser in 'Lighter Skin'

Apparently it's a 3 in 1 product for 'perfect skin', it 'fights spots & blackheads', 'gives a flawless complexion' and is 'mattifying & oil-free'. This is a good product, it helps even out the skin. I don't need powder to set it because it dries matte. The colour matches well with my skin, it's cheap, and it works. However, it's quite sheer and you do need concealer to hide dark scars. The only thing I loathe about it is that if you apply with your hand, it kinda sticks to your fingers. I haven't tried applying it with a brush or a sponge though. If I don't feel like wearing BB Cream or foundation, I reach out for this. Oh btw, it's very light on the skin. I can barely feel it.

7)

Tony Moly Fresh Aqua Cooling 24 Eyes Stick

I did a review of this here if you're interested. I like this product a lot and I saw a similar product from Etude House, and it was 4 bucks more than the price of this so I dunno if I'd want to try that. I like this because it de-puffs my eyebags after I cry. It's just nice to apply when your eyes are tired.

Here are the swatches for the three eyeshadows and the cream blush:

- 02 beauty on tour
- 14 Cappuccino
- YL02 Lemon Sherbet
- BR01 Milk Cocoa

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That's it for my April Favourites :D

This time I didn't have a lot which is good I guess.

If there're any products you'd like me to do an in-depth review, leave it in the comments!

So, do share your April Favourites in the comment below!

Have you tried any of these products?

Leave a link to your favourites post, I'd love to look at them!

Cheerio, take care then!

-Nisah-