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It's that time where I must cycle to a new mascara as it can be detrimental to eye health to continue using the same mascara for too lon...

Review: Clinique High Impact Mascara

It's that time where I must cycle to a new mascara as it can be detrimental to eye health to continue using the same mascara for too long (bacteria!).  I selected the Clinique High Impact Mascara because I had been using the Benefit Roller Lash for years, but I guess I had a bit of a wandering eye.  

CLINIQUE
High Impact Mascara Review

Clinique High Impact Mascara Review 01 Black


INFO SHEET


Brand:  Clinique
Product:  High Impact Mascara
Shade:  01 Black
Waterproof?:  No
Price:  $21.00
Where to Buy:  Amazon, Bloomingdales, Clinique, Nordstrom, Ulta

Clinique boasts that their High Impact Mascara increases lash volume and "creates lusher, plusher, bolder lashes."  I must say though - this mascara was not my first choice.  I had originally wanted to try the Estée Lauder Sumptuous Extreme Lash but the shop was out of stock.  Not wanting to waste a trip, I reluctantly purchased the Clinique mascara.  Let's see how it works out.  

Clinique High Impact Mascara wand.


I wasn't sure what to expect when I saw the applicator - it just looked like any ol' brush to me.  I guess I'm just used to the pink spikey space cactus applicator of Roller Lash.  However, when I started reading reviews for the Clinique High Impact Mascara - people seemed to really like the wand.  They say it helps produce an even finish.  Maybe the space cactus applicator is a gimmick?  I guess I shouldn't judge. 


BEFORE AND AFTER

Clinique High Impact Mascara 01 Black - Volumizes and Lengthens


As soon as I tried the Clinique High Impact Mascara I was in love. The first thing I noticed was how smooth and lightweight the formula was, while still adding volume to boot!  The lengthening effect is especially apparent on my lashes that lie closer to my tear ducts.  The mascara also did not flake or clump up on me, nor did it feel tacky.  I have hooded eyes with combination / oily skin so eye makeup tends to transfer to my upper lid; not so with this mascara.  

I also tend to get teary eyed from my environment, and am happy to report that the mascara didn't run despite not being waterproof.  Not only did it stay on all day, but it washed off easily with my oil cleanser so I wasn't left with raccoon eyes.   Please note though that I do not apply mascara to my lower lashes as I simply prefer the look of it applied to my top lashes only.  

I did start to wonder why this mascara feels far smoother than the Benefit Roller Lash.  A quick review of the ingredients revealed that the Clinique High Impact Mascara contains Sodium Hyaluronate (aka Hyaluronic Acid or HA).  This explains a lot because when you add this ultra lightweight HA powder to water, it can create a very moisturizing serum that helps keep your skin hydrated.  When added to makeup, I can only imagine that it leads to a smooth, light and airy application; while also preventing flakiness.  HA is also non-irritating so it won't be an issue around the eyes (this ingredient also occurs naturally within the body).


FINAL THOUGHTS


I really like the Clinique High Impact Mascara and will definitely repurchase.  It did what it claimed to do:  Add volume and length.  To be honest, I very rarely buy makeup products from this brand.  I don't know why - but I guess it just hasn't really been on my radar.  Now I know that was a mistake.  

STOREPRICEOFFERS
Amazon$16.99Free Shipping
Bloomingdales$21.00Free Shipping 
Clinique$21.00Free Shipping Orders $40+; 15% Off Student Discount with UNiDAYS
Nordstrom$21.00Free Shipping
Ulta$21.00Free Shipping Orders $35+

I think I am going to try Clinique's Quickliner for Eyes next since the mascara's formula did a great job staying put.  
Rating

This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.  
None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.


Some people buy packs of gum on impulse at checkout.  I buy brow products.  This one is a little different though:  It's not a pen.  For...

Review: Etude House Drawing Eye Brow Pencil

Some people buy packs of gum on impulse at checkout.  I buy brow products.  This one is a little different though:  It's not a pen.  For once I have purchased... a pencil!  Enter:  Etude House Drawing Eye Brow Pencil in Shade Dark Grey.

ETUDE HOUSE
Drawing Eye Brow Pencil Review

Etude House Drawing Eye Brow in Dark Grey Review


INFO SHEET


Brand:  Etude House
Product:  Drawing Eye Brow Pencil
Shade:  04 Dark Grey
Color Payoff:  Light but Buildable 
Waterproof?:  Moderate
Price:  $4.99
Where to Buy:  Amazon, BeautyNetKorea, Jolse, Olive Young, YesStyle

Since I like to save my Milani Weekend Brow Pen for the weekend or when I go out, I decided to try something just for every day.  A small K-Beauty shop opened near me so I popped on by.  After all, it's good to support small businesses!  Since my brows are pretty full right now, a pencil may be just enough for the few patchy areas.


Drawing Eye Brow Triangular Applicator

Comes with a convenient spoolie brush at the end.


SWATCH

Etude House Drawing Eye Brow Swatch in Dark Grey


The shape of the Etude House Drawing Eye Brow Pencil is reminiscent of Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Definer as it also boasts the triangular tip to aid in application.  The main difference however, is the price.  The ABH Brow Definer is about $23.00 a pop but the Etude House Pencil is only a fraction of that, coming in around $4.99 each.  I have to say - don't let the price fool you.  As far as brow products are concerned, price does not equal quality.  

There isn't a lot of variety when it comes to packaging for brow pencils, but I do like how the Etude House Drawing Eye Brow Pencil has color coded caps so you can differentiate between the pencil side and the spoolie side.  It's the little things.  I also like how the grey color leans slightly warm so it's not a true grey that might look weird on the skin. 


BEFORE AND AFTER

It resisted fading from running water!

Etude House Drawing Eye Brow Pencil Before & After


The Etude House Drawing Eye Brow Pencil did very well with the water test and did not wash off whatsoever when being held under running water.  With that said, I was still on the fence about this product.  I'm just used to brow pens which have a lot more depth as far as pigment is concerned.  However, the more I used it the more the material began to soften up and became a lot better to work with.  While I would probably reach for something of HG status for a date night, I think this pencil is good for running errands or going to work.  

I think the best thing about the Etude House Drawing Eye Brow Pencil is how easy it is to use though.  Unlike Brow Pens, there is virtually no learning curve.  This is probably the most "grab and go" brow product I have ever tried. 


FINAL THOUGHTS


I like the Etude House Drawing Eye Brow Pencil, but I think it's best suited for those whose brows only need to be filled in a little bit.  For those with sparse brows (or trichotillomania), it could be good as a background shade and then adding individual hairs on top using a brow pen like NYX Lift & Snatch Brow Tint Pen.  At the end of the day though, sparse brows may require something a bit more robust.

STOREPRICEOFFERS
Amazon$4.00Free Shipping
BeautyNetKorea$1.55Flash Sales & International Shipping
Jolse$4.75$3.00 Off First Purchase, Free Shipping Orders $50+, and Free Samples
Olive Young$5.00Flash Sales & Free Shipping Orders $60+
YesStyle$3.0910% Off First Purchase & Free Shipping Orders $59+

All in all, the Etude House Drawing Eye Brow pencil is the most affordable out of all of the brow products I have tried, and I think it's good for the price.

Rating

This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.  
None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.


Did you know that our favorite brand for everything snail makes hydrogel patches?  Because I didn't.  When I visited my local K-Beauty s...

Review: Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patch

Did you know that our favorite brand for everything snail makes hydrogel patches?  Because I didn't.  When I visited my local K-Beauty store looking for Collagen Eye Patches from Etude House, the SA showed me these Benton patches.  Yes, I absolutely did toss them in my basket before she even finished her sentence.  I love Benton.  

BENTON
Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patch Review

Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patch Review


INFO SHEET


Brand:  Benton
Product:  Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patch
Scent:  Subtle, Fresh
Price:  $28.00 for 30 Pairs (60 Pieces)
Where to Buy:  Amazon, Benton, Jolse, Olive Young, YesStyle

Benton is known for their very popular Snail Bee High Content Steam Cream which is a fantastic (and quite soothing) moisturizer; so of course I was interested when I saw Benton made Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Patches!  At $0.93 per pair how could I say no?  That's a steal in my book, and from a trusted brand to boot!

Comes with the cutest little tongs.
No contamination here!

Check out that sparkle!


The packaging for Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patches was a lot nicer than expected too.  I think it was well thought out - the container is quite heavy, and underneath the lid is a interior cover with little tongs on top to help pick up the hydrogels without contamination.  I like how the interior cover is functional as well.  It creates a tight seal to keep the hydrogels fresh.  So you have the lid to keep air out, in addition to a secondary cover.  The little tongs are so cute.

I also did not expect the hydrogels to be black with gold sparkles - which I found to be pretty neat.  I liked how large they were too.  Far better than the Freeman Micro-Dart patches.  


INGREDIENTS


Being that these Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patches are made by Benton; I fully expect the ingredients list to be full of goodies.  Here is what we got:

Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Carrageenan, Saccharomyces/Snail Secretion Filtrate Ferment Filtrate, Butylene Glycol, Charcoal Powder, Glucose, Potassium Chloride, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Diamond Powder, Propanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Pearl Powder, Citrus Unshiu Peel Extract, p-Anisic acid, Beta-Glucan, Gold, Levulinic acid, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Water, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Extract, Althaea Rosea Flower Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Punica Granatum Fruit Extract, Porphyra Yezoensis Extract, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Laminaria Japonica Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Phytoplacenta Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Copper Tripeptide-1, Dextrin, Ceratonia Siliqua (Carob) Gum, Cyamopsis Tetragonoloba (Guar) Gum, Mica, Titanium dioxide, iron oxides, Panthenol, Arginine, Bee Venom (Apitoxin), Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, 1,2-Hexanediol, Aniba Rosodora (Rosewood) Wood Oil


Notable Ingredients:

  • Niacinamide - aka Vitamin B3.  Provides a wide range of benefits including the increase of moisture retention and elasticity, brightening, excess sebum control, and improved appearance of enlarged pores.
  • Saccharomyces/Snail Secretion Filtrate Ferment Filtrate - This nutrient-rich mucin is best known for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties.  Also said to be effective in healing blemishes. 
  • Sodium Hyaluronate - aka Hyaluronic Acid.  A very effective humectant that boosts the skin's moisture content, prevents dehydration, and preserves skin moisture. 
  • Pearl Powder - Containing amino acids and calcium, this antioxidant reduces fine lines and wrinkles while also stimulating collagen production.
  • Beta-Glucan - An anti-oxidant that soothes the skin and helps reduce redness.
  • Levulinic acid - An anti-microbial skin softening agent.
  • Melaleuca Alternifolia - aka Tea Tree Oil.  In small concentrations (such as this), this antioxidant acts as a skin soothing agent.  
  • Althaea Rosea Flower Extract - aka Mallow.  Helps soothe the skin and improve texture.
  • Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract - Derived from the aloe vera plant, this antioxidant helps soothe the skin. 
  • Punica Granatum Fruit Extract - aka Pomegranate Extract. Skin soothing ingredient said to also help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Porphyra Yezoensis Extract - A Japanese seaweed extract that helps the skin retain moisture and protect it from UV radiation.
  • Chlorella Vulgaris Extract - An amino acid rich antioxidant said to help reduce collagen breakdown while also encouraging collagen production in the skin.
  • Laminaria Japonica Extract - A humectant that increases skin hydration.
  • Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract - aka Chamomile Extract.  This antioxidant has skin soothing properties.
  • Glycine Soja (Soybean) Phytoplacenta Extract - A powerful antioxidant that helps even out skin tone while also having anti-aging properties.
  • Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract - aka Green Tea Extract.  An antioxidant that calms the skin with it's anti-irritant properties.  Said to improve the overall appearance of sun-damaged skin.
  • Copper Tripeptide-1 - Peptide that helps repair the skin while also increasing skin firmness and elasticity.
  • Bee Venom (Apitoxin) - Studies show that this ingredient effectively reduces fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Adenosine - Derived from yeast, this ingredient helps reduce wrinkles by increasing skin smoothness.

Oh my goodness... there are so many!  I was getting exhausted researching each ingredient.  Benton really loaded these up.  Though I'm not really sure if Diamond Powder and Gold are necessary... it's probably what makes those pretty sparkly bits.  

These hydrogels also appear to contain Mica; which has caused quite a stir in the beauty community due it possibly being linked to child labor in India.  It does depend on where the manufacturer sources this ingredient from though (which isn't always transparent).  Refinery 29 wrote an article about it here.  Now let's see what COSDNA thinks about the Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patches.


COSDNA ALERTS


Even though the Benton hydrogel patches have an extensive ingredients list, only three were marked as potential triggers according to COSDNA - two of which are significant.  

  • Carrageenan - 5 out of 5 (Acne), 2 out of 5 (Irritant) 
  • Butylene Glycol - 1 out of 5 (Acne)
  • Potassium Chloride - 5 out of 5 (Acne)

My skin is very acne prone, so I will be watching how it reacts closely.  Luckily, my skin is not really effected by Butylene Glycol or Carrageenan (Fragrance); so Potassium Chloride is my main concern.  It's important to understand the ingredients that you are putting on your skin so you will eventually learn what it tolerates and what it does not.  Similar to food ingredients - if you know something upsets your stomach, its best to avoid it going forward!


BEFORE AND AFTER

Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patches - Before and After


I wore the Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patches for about 20 minutes per the instructions.  After removing them, I wouldn't say my undereye felt moisturized; the skin felt a lot softer.  I did immediately notice that my fine lines weren't as deep set as before.  I checked back a few hours later to see if my undereye reverted back to looking like trash, and I am happy to say that the effects of these hydrogel patches last at least a few hours.

I can only imagine how they would work with continued use.  The fact that they contain so many beneficial ingredients on top of having results after the first wear is very promising.  


FINAL THOUGHTS


I love the Benton Snail Bee Ultimate Hydrogel Eye Patches.  I'm really happy the SA at my local K-Beauty shop turned me onto them.  Like I said before, I was going to purchase the Etude House Collagen Eye Patches at $2.00 per pair.  The Benton Eye Patches are less than half the cost of those.  Much more cost effective 😊.

STOREPRICEOFFERS
Amazon$25.20Free Shipping
Benton $28.00Free Shipping Orders $50+ and Free Samples
Jolse$23.80$3.00 Off First Purchase, Free Shipping Orders $30+, and Free Samples
Olive Young$28.00Flash Sales & Free Shipping Orders $60+
YesStyle$16.9210% Off First Purchase & Free Shipping Orders $59+

I will definitely repurchase these eye patches and plan on using them 1 - 2x per week or before going out.  Benton sure knows how to make a good product.  I'm really happy they worked out!  
Rating

This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.  
None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.

Summer is no friend of mine when it comes to my hair.  The heat and humidity just spells frizz.  It's usually around this time of year t...

Review: Ryo Damage Care Treatment

Summer is no friend of mine when it comes to my hair.  The heat and humidity just spells frizz.  It's usually around this time of year that I start looking for a Deep Conditioning Treatment or even a Keratin Treatment.  This time around I've decided to try a more affordable option:  Ryo Damage Care Treatment.

RYO
Damage Care Treatment Review

Ryo Damage Care Hair Treatment


INFO SHEET


Brand:  Ryo
Product:  Damage Care Treatment
Scent:  Herbal
Price:  $9.99
Where to Buy:  Amazon, BeautyNetKorea, Olive Young

Since my Keratin Treatment is pretty much washed out, my hair is starting to look a little dull and could use some more love.  A small Korean Beauty shop opened nearby and had the Ryo Damage Care Treatment in stock.  It was pretty affordable so I decided to give it a try; since I've already had a great experience with Ryo's Shampoo and Conditioner.  


The texture is very rich and thick.


The consistency of Ryo Damage Care Treatment is luxuriously thick.  I've used quite a few Hair Treatments and this one is probably amongst the thickest I have seen.  I would say the texture is similar to a whipped (and herbal) petroleum jelly.  Let's see what it's made of!


INGREDIENTS


Water, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Behentrimonium Chloride, Pinus Sylvestris Bud Extract, Steartrimonium Chloride, Glycolipids, Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Cnidium Officinale Rhizome Extract, Soy Protein, Alcohol, Iron Oxide Red, Trideceth-10, Butylene Glycol, Mica, Amodimethicone, Citric Acid, Isopropyl Alcohol, Titanium Dioxide, Tin Oxide, Disodium EDTA, PEG-90M, Phenoxyethanol, Fragrance


Notable Ingredients:

  • Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil - Increases hair flexibility and shine.  
  • Glycolipids - Improves hair flexibility, smoothness, and reduces frizz.
  • Camellia Japonica Seed Oil - aka Tsubaki Oil.  A non-greasy hair moisturizer.  
  • Panax Ginseng Root Extract - Promotes hair growth.
  • Cnidium Officinale Rhizome Extract - Antioxidant that helps prevent hair loss and promotes hair growth.  
  • Soy Protein - Strengthens the hair while also increasing moisture, shine, and smoothness.

While I'm not as well versed with Haircare ingredients when compared to Skincare, I did my best trying to figure out what's what.  On paper, the ingredients for Ryo Damage Care Treatment seem pretty good!  

Though it does contain Mica; which has caused quite a stir in the beauty industry due it possibly being linked to child labor in India.  It does depend on where the manufacturer sources this ingredient from though (which isn't always transparent).  Refinery 29 wrote an article about it here.  I get why Mica would be included in makeup... but haircare?  I don't know.


BEFORE & AFTER

I'm very happy with the results.


The instructions for the Ryo Damage Hair Care Treatment are quite simple.  After washing my hair and rinsing thoroughly, I gently worked it into my wet locks.  Usually when I do a hair treatment, I aim for maximum moisture!  This means wearing a plastic cap over it and leaving it on for one hour.  Sometimes I'll even hit it with a Hair Steamer for a few minutes before putting the cap on.  After letting the conditioning treatment do its thing.  I rinsed it thoroughly with cold water.  

I am very impressed with the results!  I love the herbal scent and it made my curls incredibly soft and bouncy.  Since I do not currently have a Keratin Treatment, my hair was looking quite sad until I used Ryo.  Plus it's been over a year since my last hair cut... I took a close up of my curls in hopes to convey this.  


FINAL THOUGHTS


I will most definitely repurchase the Ryo Damage Care Treatment.  It's probably one of the most effective conditioning treatments I have tried.  Plus it is very affordable so what is not to love?

STOREPRICEOFFERS
Amazon$11.83Free Shipping
BeautyNetKorea$8.25Flash Sales + Ships Internationally
Olive Young$8.42Flash Sales + Free Shipping Orders $60+

Ryo has a lot of other products that looks like it would be worth trying.  I really just love anything with that herbal scent.  

Rating

This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.  
None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.

I can't remember where I first heard it from, but apparently you can use lash glue on your brows instead of brow gel or the soap brow me...

Review: Duo Brush-On Adhesive - Lash Glue Brow Gel Hack!

I can't remember where I first heard it from, but apparently you can use lash glue on your brows instead of brow gel or the soap brow method.  Lash glue is affordable enough, so I figured why not give it a try?  I'm ready to board this train to fluffy brow town.  

DUO BRUSH-ON ADHESIVE
Lash Glue Brow Gel Hack!

All aboard the bushy brow train!


INFO SHEET


Brand:  Duo
Product:  Brush-On Adhesive with Vitamins
Scent:  Like glue... but not noticeable after application.
Price:  $6.49
Where to Buy:  Amazon, Target, Ulta

I've used many different brow gels in the past, but just couldn't get them to work for me.  They wouldn't make my brows straight enough and would get all gunky.  I liked the results from the soap brow method, but alas my skin is too sensitive to leave soap on it and would get very itchy.  Plus if you intend to go swimming or live in a hot climate then just forget it.  It won't last. 

I was also toying with the idea of getting brow lamination, but just wasn't sure if I was ready to commit.  Enter:  The lash glue brow gel hack featuring Duo Brush-On Lash Adhesive!  

I arbitrarily chose to test this hack using Duo Brush-On Lash Adhesive.  I had searched for the best lash glue and sorted the results by highest rated.  I've never heard of this product beforehand because I've never tried fake lashes.  This lash glue is available in both dark and clear.  I went with clear because 1) how dark is dark? and 2) clear might be more forgiving if I mess up!


BEFORE AND AFTER

Don't put too much - trust me.

Brow Filler + Lash Glue = Win.


What isss thisss?  Color me shocked - now that's a bushy brow!!  You only need a teeny tiny amount to achieve the results above.  I'm talking VERY little.  The pictures above are from my second attempt, because my first attempt was an utter failure.  I had put what I thought was a moderate amount but ended up with rock hard brows.  I also learned that I probably should have trimmed my brows first, because I ended up looking like Brock Lee.

Another thing to note is that this sucker dries really fast, and you might need a good makeup remover (depending on how much glue you use).  For round two with Duo Brush-On Lash Adhesive, this is what I did:

  1. Trim my brows first by brushing them upward and trimming the straggly ones.
  2. Apply a small amount of lash glue and quickly brush the brows up and style.
  3. Fill in any areas that need a little love (I used my trusty Milani Weekend Brow Pen)
I used an old spoolie brush to style my brows upward and then out towards the tail.  At first I was worried that the lash glue wouldn't play nice with the brow pen, but it dried so fast that I had no issues filling them in afterward.  I also needed significantly less brow filler than I normally would; which means my brows look less "filled in" plus less fading to worry about.   


FINAL THOUGHTS


The lash glue brow gel hack is nothing to gawk it - it actually works VERY well.  I would honestly feel comfortable using it at a water park or the beach because it was completely water resistant.  I can't say the same for whatever brow filler is used afterward, but rest assured that the hairs should stay put.

STOREPRICEOFFERS
Amazon$5.38Free Shipping
Target$5.39Free Shipping Orders $35+
ULTA$6.49Free Shipping Orders $35+

The Duo Brush-On Lash Adhesive was perfect for this experiment.  It's very affordable, helped achieve what I set out to do, and did not irritate my skin.  It does leave a slight tacky feeling if you touch your brows, but at least they aren't going to budge!  It's also Made in Korea so that's a plus in my book. 

Rating

This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.  
None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.

One of my biggest pet peeves in my skin care journey is my large pores.  Apparently, these can be hereditary and not much can be done about ...

Review: Pacifica Cosmic Vanish Pore Strips

One of my biggest pet peeves in my skin care journey is my large pores.  Apparently, these can be hereditary and not much can be done about it.  There are some products out there that can temporarily minimize them, and Pacifica Cosmic Vanish Pore Strips is one of them...

PACIFICA
Cosmic Vanish Pore Strips Review

Pacifica Cosmic Vanish Pore Strips Review


INFO SHEET


Brand:  Pacifica
Product:  Cosmic Vanish Pore Strips
Scent:  A mix between tea tree and hemp.  Kind of odd but not unpleasant.
Price:  $6 for Six Strips (2x Nose, 2x Chin, 2x Forehead)
Where to Buy:  Amazon, Pacifica, Target, Ulta

To be honest, I've never purchased anything from Pacifica before; so I truly don't know what to expect with this product.  All I know is that my nose has seen better days, and I felt that it is finally time to address it.  Pacifica claims that the Cosmic Vanish Pore Strips can help provide a deep clean of pores by removing blackheads, dirt, and oil.  We shall see, Pacifica.  We shall see...

Comes with 2x Nose, 2x Chin, 2x Forehead strips.

Close up of a Pacifica Cosmic Vanish Pore Strip for the nose.


This is my mistake, but for some reason I didn't expect the Pacifica Cosmic Vanish Pore Strips package to include chin and forehead strips as well.  I should have really read the description.  For this review, I will be testing the nose strips specifically and will use the chin and forehead strips later on.  My nose is probably the best part to test anyway, because most nose strips just don't seem to work well for it and it needs the most help.  


INGREDIENTS


I never considered ingredients in a pore strip before, because I always just imagined them to just be a tiny cast that happens to pull out gunk.  However, perhaps learning about the ingredients in the Pacifica Cosmic Vanish Pore Strips will help determine how well sebaceous filaments can be removed.  Come with me, and you'll be... in a world of pure education...

Aqua, Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA), Glycerin, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (Licorice Root Extract), Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract, Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Oil, Xanthan Gum.

Notable Ingredients:

  • Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate - aka Licorice Root Extract.  A plant extract that soothes the skin, evens out skin tone, and reduces redness.
  • Hamamelis Virginiana Extract - aka Witch Hazel.  Is said to help remove excess oil from the skin and temporarily minimize pores.
  • Cannabis Sativa Seed Oil - aka Hemp Seed Oil.  Derived from the seeds of the hemp plant, this ingredient helps reduce inflammation and attracts moisture to the skin.
  • Melaleuca Alternifolia Leaf Oil - aka Tea Tree Oil.  Can be irritating to the skin in high concentrations, but in low concentrate applications (such as this) can help sooth the skin and reduce irritation.

So it looks like the Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) is the adhesive component that helps the pore strip stick to the skin, and the Witch Hazel absorbs the excess oil onto the strip.  The other ingredients appear to counteract the potential redness and irritation stemming from the whole process.  


COSDNA ALERTS


None of the ingredients listed above triggered any alerts from COSDNA for potential acne or irritation, but keep in mind; the action of peeling the strip off your skin may be irritating in itself.  Hopefully the anti-irritant ingredients will help with this.


BEFORE AND AFTER

Ren & Stimpy close up 🤮

🤮🤮🤮


Okay so the Pacifica Cosmic Vanish Pore Strips actually worked VERY well.  The pores in my nose are visibly smaller and it took out a ton of filaments.  I've never used a pore strip that worked this well so I am truly surprised by the results (sorry, Biore).  

The Pacifica pore strips were a little different from the Biore ones.  It felt more like a rigid paper so I wasn't sure if it would even stick to my nose.  I washed my face as instructed and applied the strip (shiny side down) to my wet face.  I then gently, pressed it into my nose for full adhesion.  There were some spots that were still dry or didn't stick well; so I used damp fingers on the top of the strip to further mold it around my nose.  

The instructions say to wear the strip for 15 minutes, but they still felt a little damp at that time.  You can tell if they're still damp because wet areas feel cooler than the dry areas.  So I waited until the strip was fully dried before peeling it off (about 25 minutes).  I also peeled it off very very slowly.  I grabbed each side of the Pacifica Cosmic Vanish Pore Strips and pulled it forward until it was released from the tip of my nose.  It didn't hurt much at all - I was expecting my nose to be irritated or at least a little pink afterward, but it was not probably thanks to the anti-irritant ingredients.


FINAL THOUGHTS


I'm definitely rebuying the Pacifica Cosmic Vanish Pore Strips.  While I don't think they will be good for the skins moisture barrier if you try to incorporate them into a regular skin care routine; I fully intend to use them if I'm going out and want to look nice, or for monthly "maintenance".  

STOREPRICEOFFERS
Amazon$6.00Free Shipping
Pacifica$6.0015% Off First Purchase; Free Shipping Orders $50+; Free Gift with Purchase
Target$5.99Free Shipping Orders $35+
ULTA$6.00Free Shipping Orders $35+

Finally something good to write about!  My last few reviews were full of duds, and it feels so good to get a win.  I'm very happy with my purchase and am excited to see what else Pacifica has to offer.

Rating

This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.  
None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.

I like gel liners that come in a little pot because I just find them to be easier to work with than pencil / liquid eyeliners.  As I trudged...

Review: MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline Gel Eyeliner

I like gel liners that come in a little pot because I just find them to be easier to work with than pencil / liquid eyeliners.  As I trudged through ULTA to try to find one that suits my needs, I came across MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline that seemed pretty promising.  

MAC
Pro Longwear Fluidline Gel Eyeliner Review

MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline Gel Eyeliner Blacktrack Review


INFO SHEET


Brand:  MAC
Product:  Pro Longwear Fluidline
Shade:  Blacktrack
Color Payoff:  Moderate
Price:  $19.00
Where to Buy:  Amazon, MAC, Nordstrom, Ulta

I was looking for a soft gel formula that can be spread along my lash line pretty quickly.  Kind of like different drawing mediums... I prefer to work with chalk and charcoal that can be spread around and is generally more forgiving, while others like to work with pens and markers.  

MAC claims that the Fluidline gel eyeliner has a longwearing, smudgeproof yet silky finish - exactly what I was looking for.  I paired this liner with my trusty Anastasia Beverly Hills # 3 Tapered Liner Brush, but I think a angled liner brush will work just as well.   

MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline in Blacktrack packaging


SWATCH

It is truly smudge and waterproof!


The MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline gel eyeliner has a pretty good color payoff.  As expected, it's not quite as bold as a true liquid eyeliner (I like Benefit Cosmetics Roller Liner Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner), but it does have a nice finish.  Some black eyeliners tend to also look very stark, but the Blacktrack shade was a lovely soft black.   

The swatch dried pretty quickly, and after that it became practically smudge proof!  I even washed my hands several times throughout the day and it did not budge.  Safe to say that it passed the Water Test with flying colors.  Since soap and water did not remove the swatch, I had to use my Kose Softymo Speedy Cleansing Oil with a little help from my finger nails.  I hope it performs this well on my combination / oily face!

BEFORE AND AFTER

MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline in Blacktrack - With Primer

MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline in Blacktrack - Without Primer


First and foremost, I found that this gel eyeliner has to be used with primer (I used Sulwhasoo Makeup Balancer).  Otherwise, it just seems to break down after a few hours.  In addition to this, despite having used gel pot eyeliners in the past; the MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline had an unexpected learning curve.  I usually applied them with one long swoop, but if you attempt to do this with Fluidline then the stroke starts to look pretty weak / transparent.  The formula is so soft that the brush simultaneously applies it while also wiping it off.  I used three different brushes across several days to make sure I wasn't taking crazy pills.  It's not me, MAC, it's you.  

The best way to apply it is to use very short strokes.  Unfortunately you have to do this pretty quickly because if it dries during application, then the brush will start rubbing the product off completely and it will look flakey!  

The weather has been quite cool lately, so my combination / oily skin has been leaning more towards normal (it's oily in the summer); so I'm not sure if that's the reason why the gel liner seems to break down without primer.  Again, I did test it over several days to make sure.  


FINAL THOUGHTS


The PROS:  MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline in Blacktrack is water resistant, and does not transfer to the upper lid.  

The CONS:  It has quite a steep learning curve, and must be worn with primer.  I think if you were looking for a liner that could make a bold look (like a crisp cat's eye) then you might be disappointed.  

STOREPRICEOFFERS
Amazon$24.77Free Shipping
MAC$19.00Free Shipping Every Order + Free Samples
Nordstrom$19.00Free Shipping + Gift with Purchase
ULTA$19.00Free Shipping Orders $35+

At the end of the day, this product is just "okay".  I kind of feel like it's more trouble than it's worth but I'll continue playing with it to see if I could get it to work for me... I might just end up going back to my trusty Benefit Cosmetics Roller Liner Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner which is far, far better.  

Rating

This post may contain affiliate links to help support this blog.  
None of these reviews sponsored, nor were any of the products provided for free (or even at a discount) by any affiliate.
Read full disclosure here.

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Skin Shade: MAC NC37
Skin Type: Combination / Oily
Skin Issues: Acne Prone / Sensitive / Aging / Texture

Currently Testing: The Ordinary Argireline Solution 10%

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This blog not intended to be a substitute for the professional advice of a doctor, dermatologist, or medical professional of any kind. It is strongly encouraged to seek the guidance of a professional before trying any skin care products, skin care routines, or any practice related to skincare or general health.​