Tag: beauty review

  • Influenster Review: Vichy Lift Activ Hyalu Mask

    Influenster Review: Vichy Lift Activ Hyalu Mask

    Oh my gad…
    I got my first Influenster Canada VoxBox!

    Okay, I was a little skeptical to sign up for this program at first – I mean, there’s always a catch to something right? Though, more and more people I followed on Instagram were posting their VoxBoxes, and my curiosity grew.

    So, after doing a bit of research on the company and confirming that it was indeed free – with no secret monthly/yearly subscription needed – naturally, I signed up.

    And I thought I’d have to wait a really long time in order to start receiving products for review, but I had my first notification that I was on the shortlist in a just a couple of months!

    Lucky for me, I’ve recently been into trying new skincare products so as fate may have it, my first box was from Vichy!

    So let’s get to it!


    Product
    Vichy Lift Activ Hyalu Mask

    Purpose
    Plumps skin, restores softness, refreshes complexion.

    First thoughts
    The name sounded intense – I mean, hyaluronic acid people. So, a little intimidated, but super excited to try!

    First impressions
    Packaging looks very chic, sleek and mature. Liked it was a smooth gel, not cream. Brownie points – I was pleasantly surprised that I received a full size product (50ml) and not sample.



    Initial test
    After testing it the first time I actually felt a difference in my skin. The instructions call for you to apply on cleansed skin, leave for 5 minutes and wipe away with a damp cloth.
    So, I was honestly expecting my skin to feel dry after wiping off, but it was the total opposite.

    It left my face feeling super smooth.

    And to further test, I also didn’t apply lotion after wiping, to see if my skin would eventually tighten and dry out, but it did not. It was actually so moisturizing and hydrating! 

    Final thoughts + verdict
    Overall, I’m very impressed with the formula! I like the consistency of the gel – it’s not too thick or sticky on my face or hands. Will for sure continue to use this in my skincare routine. It doesn’t take any effort to apply and it’s not messy, so I don’t mind the extra step after my morning cleanse or shower. Especially since it only calls for use a couple of times a week, one container would last me a few months. A little definitely goes a long way!

    Suggestions
    My only suggestion or critique is that I wish the gel was scented or coloured, making it more fun. It would also help me see where I applied and where I need to wipe off, in case I missed any areas. Though I just like bright and fun packaging – personal preference!

    Bonus
    I love the glow it leaves my skin with!

    Plus, my face feels as soft as my chinchilla.


    Have you used this mask?
    If so, tell me what you think!

    If not, what products do you use in your skincare routine?
    Comment below!

    xo
    Stephanie


    *Disclaimer: All opinions are my own. I received this product complimentary from Influenster Canada and Vichy Canada for testing and review purposes. This is not a sponsored post.

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  • HAUL IT Feat. Kylie Cosmetics

    HAUL IT Feat. Kylie Cosmetics

    Processed with VSCO with hb1 presetOkay guys. Love them. Hate them. Hate to love. Love to hate. Whatever the case may be, the Kardashians know business.

    They are major influencers in the fashion and beauty game.

    And they are killing it.

    That’s one of the reasons I got in to the show. I always love seeing how they did their hair and makeup and their clothes. And though I’m more of a Kim fan myself, my curiousness couldn’t help but wonder what the fuss was all about with Kylie Cosmetics.

    And so I caved and placed an order – but of course only when there was a sale!

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    Top: In Love with the KoKo | Bottom: The Birthday Collection (Mini Matte)

    So my complete honest opinion?

    I really like them!

    They are #2 for my favourite matte liquid lipsticks brand at the moment – just after Lime Crime.

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    The Birthday Collection (L to R): All Nighter, August Bug, Angel, One Wish, Gorg & Baby Girl

    I really like the consistency. I really like the pigment. I like how it’s smooth and doesn’t cake. I like that it’s long lasting and the wear and tear is pretty good even after meals. And they even smell delicious! Plus, the packaging is super cute.

    I was really excited to try the nude colours. So automatically I loved Angel and One Wish from the Birthday bundle, and Bunny from the Koko bundle. These are perfect for me for when I only rock black liner and no eyeshadow.

    For colour, I fell in love with Doll from the Koko bundle. It’s a nice change from a red lip, as it’s more orange, but still gives that sense of Hollywood glam. And for days when I want my lips to pop, but don’t want to be too bold, Baby Girl is a nice substitute. It comes in both bundles, but I love the tiny size from the Birthday Collection. Fits right in my wallet when I’m out for a quick errand and don’t carry a big purse.

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    In Love with the Koko (L to R): Doll, Bunny, Baby Girl, Sugar Plum

    I really have nothing to complain about.

    EXCEPT…

    It’s not exactly a Kylie issue, but more of a customs, tax and duty issue.

    I carefully made an order that was just over $60 US to receive the free international shipping. I even did some quick research before placing my order to see if people had to pay anything extra. And everyone said if your order is under $100 it will be fine.

    Well they lied.

    Because no it was not fine. And this is where companies like Lime Crime and Colourpop spoil me.

    I expected not to pay any surprise, hidden or extra duty/delivery fees when my makeup came to my door. However, I ended paying an extra $10. Which may not sound like a lot, but in the grand scheme of things, I had to pay conversion because currency was US. So a $60 US order was now basically $100CA.

    And it left me a little sour.

    Because I’d think that for a name and company of Kylie’s stature, this would be something I wouldn’t have to worry about. Because if Lime Crime and other companies can do it, so can Kylie Cosmetics. And at least older sister Kim has the right idea with KKW* where the fees are calculated at checkout so there are no surprises.

    *Note – This refers to KKW Fragrance. I recently checked for KKW Beauty and you are subject to additional fees upon delivery. 

    Would I order again?

    I’d love to, because I actually genuinely like the product. And the pricing for the lip bundles, with or without sale, are very decent – even after the conversion to CAD.

    Though, because now I know there are fees upon delivery, I’d rather stick with Lime Crime if I’m going to online shop for new liquid lipsticks.

    However, knowing me, I might cave once some of my favourite Kylie colours are done. Oh the tough decisions cosmetics brings!

    Anyways, check out more pics below!

    xo

    Stephanie

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    In Love with the Koko: Regular $40 US| Sale $32 US

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    Top to Bottom: Doll, Baby Girl, Bunny & Sugar Plum* (*gloss)

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    L to R: Baby Girl, Angel & One Wish

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    The Birthday Collection: August Bug

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    The Birthday Collection Mini Matte: Regular $36 US | Sale $28.80 US

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    Top to Bottom: All Nighter, August Bug, Angel, One Wish, Gorg & Baby Girl

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    *Disclaimer – these lip bundles were received in 2017 so the Birthday Collection is currently unavailable.

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    For more pictures, follow me on Instagram @s_pasquali!