okay, forgive me for spamming you with catrice product's reviews simultaneously. i just bought a bunch of their stuff in order to replace my old makeup. talking about catrice, it's a drugstore brand from germany, that's why their color selection is suitable for fair to light skin tone. lucky me.. although since they sell it in asian country, the color selection is limited so sometimes i can't get the shade that i want since they think it won't suitable for asian people. oh well.. reading and watching all the reviews, they all praise one thing in common, the mono eyeshadows. so, i decided to pick some. actually i want to try the metallic one, the rose gold shade, but when i swatch it at the counter, somehow it doesn't look like rose gold to me. at that time, i haven't bought my makeup revolution palettes, so i pick the bright color, the peach one since i don't own anything like that before.

this is the description from their website: colour-intensive powder eyeshadow, high coverage, for longlasting eye makeup. a diverse color spectrum, long durability, high coverage and various effects in matt, shimmering or pearly - united in the absolute eye color mono eyeshadows. inspired by the looks at the international fashion shows, the eyeshadows are available in various nuances ranging from soft nudes to bold shades for a bright and color-intensive finish.

the packaging: the mono eyeshadows come in tiny transparent square plastic compact. again, don't drop it. although it feels sturdy, it might break. this is the matte finish, and it has the word "matte" imprinted on it. there are several finishes for this single eyeshadows, matte, shimmery and even metallic. since this is my first single eyeshadows, i have no idea if the size is decent or too small or too big.

the product: it feels smooth to my touch. very silky smooth. and i can swipe and swatch it easily. even though this is a matte shade, it doesn't come patchy on my skin. i can use my finger or my brush to use this shadow. no fallout, it doesn't too powdery either.

the color payoff: i've read or seen that someone commented that this eyeshadow is true to pan. it means the color that you see on the pan translates to your skin just the way it is. you know sometimes the color on the pan doesn't translate well when you apply it to your eyes, but that isn't the story with this eyeshadow. it looks peach on the pan and it looks peach on my swatch. and even though this is a light color, i only need two swipes to get it shown on my eyes. pretty impressive.

the result: it looks nice on my eyes, it doesn't have fallout and it holds quite well too. even without primer, this color can hold up to 3-4 hours. without creasing.

this is a win for me. i can see why everyone keeps recommending the single eyeshadows. it's great for such a cheap price. and there are a lot of color selections and finishes. if i haven't bought makeup revolution palettes, i will come back and buy some more. if you're on tight budget and think eyeshadow palette is not for you, then definitely try these.

the eyeshadow compact

left: notice the imprinted word on the eyeshadow right: swatch on hand

okay, i've been neglecting this topic for so long. there are many new brands coming up to my radar, and i didn't have time to catch up with most of them. local or international. if you are new to my blog, then this topic is about new brands that i just recently found new love with. not necessarily a new brand in beauty world, but i've just encountered with. i might have purchased something from this brand, or not. the recent one is catrice. if you're not familiar with catrice, don't feel sorry though. if you're in indonesia, you can find it in selected guardian stores. if you live in europe, then you are mostly familiar with it since it's a drugstore brand from germany. i think it is from the same company as essence since both have similar products.

this is their description from their website: catrice never misses a single trend, must-have or detail. the range is extremely convincing, a large choice of colors with trendy as well as classic shades for diverse looks. products with high-quality ingredients, luxurious textures and innovative formulas. premium packaging. an ideal price-performance-ratio to ensure a pure love of shopping. twice a year, 25% of the catrice range is updated so that there's always something new to discover. beyond that, our in-house trend division develops up to 14 limited makeup collections per year, the current looks of the catwalk shows provide the inspiration for our makeup collections and are re-interpreted with the beauty products by catrice. it's not testing on animals.

i bought several products from them, and i have to say, even though it's cheap, it doesn't look cheap, it doesn't feel cheap and sure it delivers. they covers pretty wide range of products too, from face to lips to nails. i will round up severals recommended products that i've read or seen from many reviews.

from eyes department: if you have read my posts, then you will know that i bought their single eyeshadow. and it's great. it has lots of color selections and finishes and it delivers well. everyone that i've seen in youtube talking about catrice must be talking about this single eyeshadow. and they always talking about staying away from the palette since it has bad pigmentation, very powdery. so even though it looks nice, please don't let it deceive you. stay away. it really does have bad pigmentation. apart from that, i think several products are really up to new trend, like stylo eyeshadow pen is similar to laura mercier or several korean products. the eyeliners are great too, but there are so many types, i just didn't know which one to try. their eyebrows products are recommended too, but since this is european brand, the colors are too light for asian people who have dark brows. but they say that the brow definer is a winner, as well as the duo which is similar to japanese product. stay away from the mascara though. i've seen someone mention that it does nothing good.

from lips department: i bought the lip smoother and i think it's great. it really moisturize my lips. some of their products look similar to other brands. like the lip smoother is similar to clarins. and their two tone lipstick is similar to korean trends. their lip stylo is similar to laura mercier? and their velvet lip cream is on board with latest liquid lipstick trend. their lip products mostly has creamy or glossy finish, even the velvet matte is not matte completely if i'm not mistaken. which is refreshing since the market is too saturated with matte lip products. but if you're not into sheer colors with glossy finish or creamy finish, then you might want to stay away from their lip products.

from face department: i think this is their biggest strength. i've read and seen praises about their foundation, although i'm not sure which one to get. i'm more into bb and cc cream lately, so i won't get their foundation anytime soon. but their foundation seems similar to other brands too. their 24 hour line is similar to loreal infallible line. their hd liquid foundation also similar to other brands that also use dropper to dispense the product. and they even have the darkening/brightening thing that i believe TBS has it. their face powders too. the all mat is similar to the famous rimmel, the healthy look might aim to dupe the famous guerlain powder. however, their waterproof one is quite innovative. their blushes are good too. but everyone seems have different preference. but they said the blush artist palette and the defining blush is okay. i got the illuminating blush which is okay for me, but some might find it too subtle. the concealer also similar to other brands too. their liquid camouflage aims to dupe nars and their retouch light reflecting concealer also similar to TBS and YSL. their bronzer is another hit, the matte one is praised by many people. i got the contouring set and it works fine too. although some might find the highlighter is meh. their base is another hit too. i think it tried to copy makeup forever, but i can't be sure.

from nails department: i bought their nail polishes, their base/top coat and everything are okay. i like them all. the color selections are wide but unfortunately, since the counter is small, they don't have all the shades in one counter.

i think if you haven't tried catrice, it worth the shot. you can get tons of good product with small amount of money. this is definitely a brand that you can try without bleeding your wallet. give it a shot!

my husband bought me this mask set per my request since he was leaving me for a few days with two toddlers and a newborn baby at home. although i have helpers, but still i have to deal with them myself at night. so, this mask is a reward for me. although he's grumpy about the price, but he still bought it for me anyway..

this is the description from their website: cutting-edge plant biotechnology isolates and replicates the perfect rose stem cells for truly astonishing results. with state-of-the-art, 21st century breakthrough technology, five rose plant stem cells - rose commiphora, desert rose, damas rose, pale rose, and white rose - are blended with four rose extracts - rose damascena, rosa canina, rose hip seed and rose water - in a cooling gel to help invigorate and improve the look of skin vitality. helps to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, dehydration, dullness and sagging as it strengthens and tones the look of skin. skin is left looking silky soft, radiant, beautiful and youthful.

the packaging: it comes in tiny tube, the rose one is pink. and it's a see-through so you can see the remaining mask that you have inside the tube. there's description at the back of each tube. and it's really tiny, about 5 ml.

the scent: i have to say this definitely smells like rose. although i can't be sure which one i like better, TBS rose mask or this one.

the product: the mask texture is gel, jelly-like. it's more viscous than the cucumber one. it's easy to spread on my face, but remember to apply it thick since it might get dried if you didn't put a lot on your face. actually, this mask can be used as wash off mask and sleeping pack. if you use as wash off mask, put it as thick as possible and wait for 10-15 minutes before washing it off. while as a sleeping pack, use it as thin as possible all over your face and leave it overnight. i only try it as wash off mask. as wash off mask, it's okay in terms it's easy to spread on and wash it off. and during the waiting time, i can feel it's slightly dried a bit. and it's sticky. so if you wash it off using your bare hands, it might take a while. it's easier using washcloth. i think it will be sticky when use as sleeping pack and i'm worried it might stick to my pillowcase, so i skip it. since i mostly use this on my whole face, this tiny tube only last 4 times uses tops.

the result: it does give moisture to my skin. but the effect is temporary and not instantly. i have to use it couple times to realize it. the soothing effect is unnoticeable for me. as for making it radiant, i have to say i finally can see it after a couple uses. in the next morning i can see that my skin is more radiant than before, slightly glowy.

overall, it's a nice moisturizing mask, slightly brightening too. it does what it's promised for but for that price, i was hoping that it will give more instant result. i find it similar to my TBS rose mask, and TBS one is cheaper. and scent-wise, i like my TBS rose scent better. so overall, i like it, but not as much as my TBS one. actually this mask is one of their bestsellers, so i'm disappointed that i don't feel the hype, considering this one is quite expensive.

the whole set

description at the back

invidual tube - rose

left: before middle: using the mask right: after (brightening effect is visible)

it's transparent so unless i take picture under the light, i can't see it

this is another purchase that i made after my makeup cleaning. i bought a bunch of catrice products after watching a lot of reviews. and i was hoping i can get the single blushes, but apparently, it's no longer sold here or it didn't even entered my country. so when i was at the counter, i was hesitating quite a bit about the blush. there are three options, the mat blush, the illuminating blush and the other is the blush palette, the one with two blushes and a bronzer in a palette. i don't think i'll use the bronzer, and i don't like the shade of the mat blush (people said it's dupe for bobbi brown blush, but i think TBS also has similar product, but it's bronzer i believe), so i decided to pick the illuminating blush. there are three shades, i've read about the la vie en rose but when i swatched it, i didn't like it. i swatched the other one and i decided to pick it without knowing the name, and turn out it was "coral me maybe" hahaa.. me and my coral blushes..

this is the description from their website: subtle shimmer, for a soft glow, accentuates the cheekbones. the illuminating blush combines two different color-intensities with a subtle shimmer and a light pearl. this accentuates the cheekbones as well as giving your complexion definition and a soft glow.

the packaging: it comes in a transparent plastic compact with the name of the product printed at front. since it's transparent, you can see the pretty chevron pattern of the blush from outside. it has no mirror and there's a description at the back of the product. i think it's sturdy enough but some people said that it might not survive many fallings, so i suggest handle with care, don't drop it.

the product: the blush itself is very pretty. it has this chevron pattern. the top and bottom part has darker color, while the middle part is lighter. it has subtle shimmer in it, very subtle that it's barely shown on my face. so you don't need to worry about being shiny like disco-ball. you can swatch each color, but i prefer combine them both. it's very buttery and soft to touch. and it doesn't too powdery so it's not too messy to use. unlike other cheap blushes that tend to be very powdery. talking about lasting power, this one doesn't last long. about 3-4 hours on combination oily skin in hot weather. but it doesn't vanish completely. you can still a sheer color after a few hours, so if you like more vibrant blush, you might have to retouch.

the color: i know the name is coral, but i think it translates more like pink to me. the darker one is pretty pink-coral, the lighter one is pale pink. when both is combined, i think it translates to a pinkish coral. my previous blushes are nyx mauve and nyx pinched. and this one is in between those shades. so i'm glad i pick this one.

the result: i use my elf angled brush to use this blush. i've read another review that suggest using a dense brush otherwise the pigment won't show since this blush is very subtle. but my elf is enough. it can pick up the pigment just fine. although i'm agree about building it up. i have to put several layers to get it shown in my swatch photo. but in daily life, it's okay for me. it's perfect for giving my skin the right amount of flush to give some life to my pale face.

definitely didn't regret my choice picking this up, although i don't think it might suitable for everyone. if you are light to very fair skin, then this blush might work for you, but if you have medium or darker skin tone, this blush won't do you any good. if you like matte blush, then skip this since it has fine shimmer in it. although it's not ridiculously glittery or shiny, but still it has shimmer in it. and if you like more options in shades, then skip this as this line has only 3 shades so you have very limited choices. although i think catrice doesn't have many shades in their blushes, aside from this line. as for price, it's super affordable, and for that price, i'm happy to see the result.

the compact case

left: the blush pan (pretty, isn't it?) right: swatch on hand

comparison with my previous nyx blushes (notice it's right between nyx mauve and pinched)

on my face (very subtle even though i've swiped more than couple times)

if you read my other posts then you would know that i'm on catrice-streak. i was cleaning my makeup and decided to get rid of most of them and changed them with something new. in the past, i try learning about contouring and i have sleek contour powder set, but somehow i neglect it. being a mom of 2 (at that time) doesn't give me a lot of time to put on my makeup, that's why i usually skip the contouring. so when i was about to buy at catrice counter, i was hesitating, whether to buy the contour set or just bronzer. i've read reviews about their matte bronzer, and many suggest the shade that i couldn't find at the counter. there's only one shade left, so i couldn't compare it. and there are a lot of good reviews about their contour palette, and the shade that many people recommend is available, so i decided to give contouring another chance.

this is the description from their website: professional set for shaping the contours of your face. two easy to blend shades. with instructions on the back. the prime and fine professional contouring palette offers a professional set for contouring every shape of face. two easy-to-blend nuances are the ideal helpers: apply darker shade below the cheekbones, along the hairline, the side of the nose and beneath the jawline. apply the lighter shade on the brow bones, inner corner of the eyes, center of the nose and above the cheekbones. with a practical how-to-use guide on the reverse.

the packaging: it comes in a transparent plastic compact. you can see the palette from the outside so obviously no mirror. the highlighter is smaller, and the contouring shade is bigger. it's logical since you use more contouring than highlighting. there's instructions at the back, with pictures and all. pretty handy since it's quite small but they managed to put the instructions there. i remember that sleek put instructions as well, but in separate booklet. again, it looks sturdy but some said don't drop it.

the product: when i swatch it using my finger, the highlighter feels hard but after a few rubbing, it gets easier to pick up the pigment. while the contour powder is more buttery. it's not powdery at all which is good. the color payoff is good too. but again, it's similar to the blush. using hand, i make a good swatch. but put it on my face, i need to put several layers to get it shown. the size of the palette is similar to sleek, the highlighter is slightly bigger than sleek, but the contouring is smaller.

the color: the highlighter is pearly white. although ashy radiance is meant for fair to light skin tone, i think the highlighter isn't even suitable for fair skin. it's way too white for any skin tone. i think it might be better if it's more champagne to gold highlighter, rather than pearly white. the contour however, is another story. it's a ashy brown, just enough grey in it so it's suitable for contouring without making anyone looks muddy. when i compared it to sleek, the highlighter seems similar, but sleek is a bit more champagne. while the contour powder on sleek is slightly more orange.

the result: this powder gives subtle contour and highlighting. perfect for daily use. although i have to say it's more difficult to get good result from the highlighter. as for the contour powder, it's very good. but you might have to put layers of products to make it show.

this is a 50-50 win for me. i like the contour part since the shade is more suitable for me now. enough grey in it, and it's subtle enough so i can build more layers as i feel comfortable without being afraid of looking like a clown. the highlighter, however, is another story. i've put several layers to make it show but it's still very subtle. and the color is not to my liking. and i've read that many people also dislike the shade choice. i think catrice should put that in their mind and produce something new. as for me, i'm glad i pick this up. i'm learning about contouring more than before so it's not a waste of money. plus, it's super affordable. as for recommendation, definitely pick ashy radiance for fair to light skin tone, but pick the other one for the highlighter.

the compact (appreciate the instructions at the back)

left: inside the compact right: swatch on hand

comparison with my previous sleek contour palette (notice the sleek is larger on each pan, especially the highlighter part)

swatch comparison (sleek is slightly more orange in my opinion)

on my face

i was on my version of spring cleaning (we don't have spring here, so i guess it just a term of cleaning my vanity and tossing unused and expired products from them, hence the spring cleaning term) and i realized i was bored with my makeup so i decided to get rid most of it (well, mostly because they've expired) and only hang on to my revealed palette and mascara. oh and some eyeliners too. but the rest is gone. so i was searching for another "drugstore" options (read: cheap, in my defense, i'm a mother of 3 kids, so my makeup should be super cheap but have good quality) and i remember about catrice. i decided to read a bunch of review and put on a quest to search for what's available in my country. luckily, there's a counter in the shopping mall near my house, so i went there early so i could sit in front of the counter and try all the items on my wish list. and one thing that i need to buy is powder.

i've used loose powder for most of the time, mainly because i think it's more suitable for oily skin, but lately i don't care much. i've been eyeing for innisfree sebum powder, but since i have to purchase it online, i think i'd try catrice first. there are two powders in my mind, the all mat one and the prime and fine. unfortunately, the all mat one only have one shade, which i think will be darker for my skin so i bought the prime and fine one since it's translucent.

this is the description from their website: waterproof powder, mattifies the skin for hours, ensures a refined complexion. innovation! when this powder comes into contact with water, the drops simply roll off the surface. this allows it to withstand humidity and mattifies your skin for hours. the delicate formula with a soft filter effect ensures a visibly flawless and refined complexion. the transparent color adapts to every skin tone. enriched with vitamin A and E. thanks to the integrated mirror, this powder is a true must-have when you're on the go.

the packaging: honestly, i like the packaging. it comes in a sleek black compact, the name of the product is printed at front. when you open it, you can see the mirror inside the top part and the pressed powder at the bottom. it's simple but it doesn't look cheap. although some said that it's not very sturdy. so perhaps i should be careful not to drop this powder.

the color: it's transparent but there's a little bit color into it. unfortunately, it's quite light so perhaps medium to darker skin tone might want to try this before buying it.

the product and result: the powder is finely milled. it's super soft and buttery. i've used it with powder brush and makeup sponge, and both works fine. with powder, it gives more natural finish, but i have to build it up to cover my face. i use my elf powder brush, but unfortunately, it doesn't give me the result that i was hoping for. sometime i can see the brush makes streaks. i just like it better with sponge. it gives more coverage, however, it's also make it more artificial, if you know what i mean. my skin will look ridiculously flawless, super smooth and bright. that's why i say i'm not sure it's completely translucent. as for the sebum control, it falls short in my opinion. on normal days, my nose will start to be oily after 3 hours or so. on hot days, i predict it might be quicker. on my first day using this, i retouch my face after 3 hours, and i didn't remove my makeup. and as result, it breaks me out. as for the waterproof part, i remember seeing this in kbeauty show, and the makeup artist used this powder as setting powder after everything is done and he dipped the model's face into a bowl full of water and then he patted the water from the model's face. and miraculously, the makeup is intact.

so, given the price, this is a decent powder, but for super oily skin or medium to deep skin tone, i don't think it will be suitable for you. as for me, it's okay for now, but if i can get my hands on the other powder, i might try it to compare which one is better.

the compact case

left: inside the compact, notice the decent mirror inside and the soft silky powder right: swatch (you can see it so it's not completely translucent)

when i went to japan, i bought several masks. i didn't buy more pure smile masks mainly because i haven't got the chance to try it first before going to japan. so i was hesitate that it might disappointing. so i just bought couple more types that i found. this one is one of them.

the description from their website: a face mask containing 1,2% soy isoflavone extract is on display! it prevents rough skin, firmly tightens your skin. suitable for all dry and greasy skin! since vitamin e and collagen is also blended, it gives you tension to the tanned skin.
(it might sound weird since it's translated via google)

the packaging: it comes in regular sachet, white background with the picture of the main ingredient at front. at the back there are descriptions in japanese. and also the number and name of all masks from pure smile (unfortunately it's in japanese).

the scent: it doesn't smell like soybean, unlike sana facial wash. this one smells floral, but not too fragrant though.

the product: it's made of medium thickness cotton. if you're used to taiwan mask sheet, then this one will fall on thicker side for you. but if you're used to korean mask sheet, than this one might feel the same. and if you're used to japanese masks, especially the one that's meant for daily use, then this one is slightly thicker. the fit is the same as the rest of this line. it has okay fit for me, but weird bottom eye flaps which is annoying and nose slit that i think it's useless. the essence is clear type and just enough. at first it feels like it soaks perfectly, but after around 10-15 minutes the edges will start to dry.

the result: i have to say that among all the other that i've tried so far, this one is the one that i like better. it's moisturising enough, soothing and also brightening. the effect can be seen almost instantly. and the next morning i can still see it's still brighten my face. but don't hope too much. it's just temporary effect as usual. oh, and it doesn't break me out.

overall, it's an okay mask to try out. it's cheap, and it works for daily use. don't expect too much as this mask is intended to use daily to get best results. this is not "one night wonder" type mask that you can use before special event. i also think it might suit most skin types.

the packaging

left: before middle: mask on my face right: after

when i was in japan, i wanted to buy cleansing water. but unfortunately i was confused with their term and the internet connection at that time is not good, so i can't find out more about it. so i decided not to buy it. but later i found out that cleansing lotion IS cleansing water. i thought lotion is toner in japan, that's why i was confused. so i asked my sister to buy me from singapore instead. she bought me two since there was BOGO offer at that time, so she got me the bright up and moist one. you can read my review about the bright up version here.

this is the description from the plastic seal of the bottle:
- thoroughly removes makeup from pores: new cleansing ingredients derived from facial toners, remove even the heaviest makeup easily. with improved cleansing power and gentler formula, cleansing is faster, more thorough and gentle to skin.
- removes skin dullness to reveal illuminating, clear and smooth skin: with enhanced cleansing capability, dead skin cells are removed during makeup removal process, improving skin texture and clarity over time.
- moisturising and refreshing feel: 100% oil free formulation leaves skin refreshed and hydrated without any greasy or sticky feeling. improves skin's moisture retention which leads to brighter and supple skin.

the packaging: it comes in a big plastic white pump bottle. the outer plastic sealing is also white, while the bright up is purple/blue. there are 3 types, the other one is enrich which is red. but after i removed the plastic sealing, both bottles (bright up and moist) look white to me. so i don't know about the enrich one. this might be confusing if you opened both bottle at the same time. since the bottle is too big and it sprays everything all over sometimes, i move it to a pump-on-top bottle. and i love it. it soaks my cotton pad just fine.

the scent: as usual, odorless japanese product. which is great for sensitive skin and nose. as for me, i usually like subtle scent in my product. since i use this at night, subtle scent helps me to relax sometimes.

the product: like the name, it's clear just like water. same consistency, same feeling. i feel slightly moist feeling afterwards, but not much different from the bright up one. this one also stings my eyes when is used to remove eye makeup.

the result: to remove sunscreen or non waterproof product, it works well. probably you will only need 1-2 cotton pads to remove it. but for heavy makeup, waterproof makeup, eyeliner, mascara, it will need more. plus a little scrubbing too. but i'm not complaining since i still prefer my cleansing oil for heavy duty cleaning.

overall, this is a good cleansing water. it does what it's supposed to do and i think it's suitable for any skin types. i don't feel any different from the bright up one, from physical to performance they both seems similar. definitely will get more in the future, probably in refill pouch since i have my pump.

the bottle with outer seal still on

after removing the seal

i've mentioned several times that i wanted to try a new night cream. although i love my olay night cream, but i'm bored, so i decided to try another cream. i was planning to buy the mizon starfish, but unfortunately it was discontinued. so i have to look for other option. i was hesitated between this cream and the other cream from the therapy line, but i decided to try this one first.

this is the description from the faceshop canada website: intense firming and wrinkle care for your skin! the SMIM firming line combines the toning properties of yogurt with the nutrients of double-fermented propolis to moisturize skin and enhance its appearance. this silky-smooth firming cream moisturizes and effectively absorbs into skin, helping to prevent fine lines. get firm, hydrated skin!

i was worried before purchasing this cream since i'm afraid this might be too rich for my combination skin. there are two lines from the SMIM that's targeted as anti aging, the radiance collagen and the firming line, but firming is marketed more toward dry skin, so i was hesitant about it. but i couldn't find any proper review anywhere, so i decided to be bold and give it a try. so let's see, is it a fail or a win?

the packaging: it comes in a frosted glass-like jar. at first i thought it was glass, but my husband said it was acrylic. i don't know.. all i know it's kind of heavy like glass but it doesn't sound like one when i knock it. and then there's always a spatula and a lid to seal the compartment. talking about the lid, it's cute since it has heart-shaped bit to lift the lid.

the scent: i think it smells like ginger or ginseng, but not as strong as sulwhasoo. but it lingers for awhile.

the product: the cream is light peach, and i think it has similar consistency with olay. it's thick but not as thick as sleeping pack. it spreads easily on my skin and absorbed quickly too. on my drier day, it absorbed well and doesn't stick on top of everything else that i've put before. no sticky feeling. but when i use sheet mask and put several layers of hydrating product before this cream, it will absorbed slowly and leave slightly sticky feeling. the sticky feeling is still there when i went to bed after putting this cream on my face.

the result: i have to say that this one is moisturizing enough. similar to olay. i can't say that it gives better result than olay since i don't notice any difference. although my skin is more glowy than before, i can't credit it solely to this cream since i also use a bunch of other products and i use mask more regularly than before too.

anyway, it is a great night cream, it will give you enough moisture to seal all the hydrating product you put on your face before and maintain it overnight. your skin will glow and bouncy in the morning, but without unnecessary greasiness. i can say that i think it's suitable for most skin types, from dry to combination skin. but for oily skin, perhaps you might want to try a sample if you can get any. as for anti aging property, i don't have any fine lines, so i can't say for sure. but i use this for prevention, and seeing that i don't see any lines, i can say it might work as anti aging. as for price range, this one is on the pricier side, even though not as expensive as sulwhasoo. so considering that it's not so different as my olay, i don't think i will repurchase this since i can get same result with cheaper olay. oh, and i don't get any breakouts from using this cream. i don't think you don't need to worry about this cream being double fermented since i don't experience purging nor breakouts of any kind.

the outer box

the jar and the spatula

top: look at the cute heart! bottom: the cream (peach! i like peach)

left: cream on my hand right: after blended

this is the second mask that i tried from my second batch purchase. i was happy about my previous batch that i decided to try some more before deciding which one to purchase full size. my previous batch was mostly clay mask, so this batch is more balanced with a scrub/clay mask, an enzyme mask and a sleeping pack besides clay masks.

this is the description from their website: dazzling skin is a girl's best friend! our delightfully indulgent mask with sparkleberry extract helps fight off environmental assaults to enhance skin's look and feel over time. dazzling diamond dust flecks glisten as you wear this clarifying clay mask. plus they polish away dullness to reveal multi-faceted radiance! unique mask rinses clean for a lasting, super-cool finish. perfect for all skin types. directions: apply mask to damp face and neck, avoiding contact with eyes. leave on for 5-7 minutes. massage into skin using circular motions to activate the exfoliating power of diamond dust. rinse with water.

the packaging: i bought travel size one so it comes in irregular sachet. this one is white and have the exact design as the full size one. at the back, there's description and instruction in english, obviously. if you use this mask full face everytime, then it will last for about 2-4 times. but since sometimes i use it on my t zone only, i get more than that.

the scent: it smells fragrant, floral, but although it's very easy to pick the scent, somehow it doesn't bother me. but if you're sensitive to scent, you might want to reconsider. but fear not though, it's a more relaxing floral scent rather than a very fragrant and annoying one.

the product: it's a creamy clay with grits in it. the grits is way smaller than apple cider one. since it's creamy, it's easy to spread all over my face. after a few minutes, i can feel the burning sensation on my skin. just hot, but not burning hot. if you're new to polishing mask like this, you might want to try on your hand first before jumping in and using it all over your face. after about 10 minutes i massage it gently. but it's hard so i wet my hands and massage it in circular motion. if i use this for my whole face every time i use this mask, then it will last for about 4 uses, but since i mostly use this on my t zone, i get more than that.

the result: when i massage it, i can feel slightly cooling sensation when in contact with water. and since the grit is smaller, it doesn't feel as rough as apple cider one. it's easy to wash off too. afterward, definitely see my skin is brighter and softer. without any redness. definitely not as harsh as apple cider.

this is my second experience with polishing mask like this, and i like this one better than apple cider one. i can see the result quite instantly. and it's cheap too. if you're in tight budget, get this. i think it might suitable for any skin types but for sensitive skin proceed with caution. ps: my sister gave me TBS ginseng rice polishing mask, so i will make a comparison post about this two mask. stay tune!

the packaging

the mask on container

left: before middle: using the mask right: after (you can notice my skin is slightly brighter afterward)

this is one of several facial washes that i bought when in japan. i just grabbed everything that i've seen on the internet. i went crazy over facial washes since we went through it quickly (my hubby is using facial wash too). and honestly, i don't know that there are several types of facial wash or several lines from this brand, but when i was writing this review, i knew and i wanted to try another lines. so hopefully i can get my hand on other products.

the description from their website: soft and supple skin soymilk cleansing wash. rich foam helps remove even makeup. skin feels smooth.
description from amazon: rich foam helps remove makeup. skin feels smooth with soy bean isoflavone. no fragrance, no artificial colorant, no mineral oil.

the packaging: it comes in white tube with beige color. flip top. and it comes in big size. actually not big size, but since i always got big size korean facial washes, it makes me get used to big size so i'm grateful that this comes in big size. unfortunately, it doesn't come with a seal on the opening, unlike korean products. but they do seal the whole tube, so probably they substitute the seal of the opening with the whole tube sealing. there are texts at the back of the tube, but everything is in japanese, so i don't know what it's about.

the scent: okay, this is probably my second scentless japanese product. although i'm not completely agree with fragrance less. with bifesta and hadalabo, it's completely scentless, but this facial wash, i can smell a hint of soy scent. definitely subtle, very subtle. so it's suitable for sensitive nose.

the product: the first time i tried it, it's a white cream, pretty dense. but i read reviews about it being on the runny side, which puzzled me since mine is pretty thick. and then i only got to try it for 2-3 times before receiving himalayan, and then i had to use himalayan facial wash since i have to review it first, so after finishing my review, i finally get the chance to try it again. and it's become runnier. i don't know what cause it. i don't think there's water slipping inside, so i definitely have no idea how it becomes runnier than before. and i keep using it and it doesn't become any runnier than before, so i guess it's the real texture. it foams easily, but not too much.

the result: i don't use it as makeup cleanser, although i think it helps clean the makeup residue. as second cleanser, it's gentle enough. but i read somewhere that it has high pH? (correct me if i'm wrong). but it gives me squeaky clean feeling, but not stripped too much. it doesn't dry out my skin. so i guess being high pH is true but somehow the japanese can make it gentle enough.

honestly, it's cheap and it's gentle so i think it won't hurt trying it. even if you have sensitive skin. but i don't think i will repurchase it since i like to try new facial washes. plus i just found out that it has several lines. i'm particularly interested in the moist line, the one with added q10, added retinol line. so i'd probably get them if i can get my hands on them.

the tube

no seal, the white cream is the facial wash

i never heard about this product before searching beauty products to buy from japan. and i stumbled upon @kaepratiwi instagram and saw this product. and then it was listed as one of must-buys beauty products from japan. so when i went there and saw it at donki, i grabbed it without thinking twice. i didn't browse enough before buying it, so i absolutely have no idea how to use and what step to use it. then i was worried since it was big to be used as toner lonely. but luckily, after getting home, i found out that it's a multitasking product and i can use it to soak my tablet sheet mask, so it's a win.

this is the description from cosme.com: this skin-conditioning toner contains natural hatomugi (job's tears) as a moisturizer. while highly moisturizing and nourishing for rough, dry patches, it does not leave the skin feeling sticky or greasy. protects the skin with powerful hydration, fighting irritation to keep the skin soft and smooth. soothes redness after sunburn with a pleasant cooling sensation. although perfect for the face, it is also excellent for use anywhere on the body. holds moisture in after showering or bathing. contains no artificial fragrance or color.

the packaging: it comes in a big transparent plastic bottle with a blue screw cap. it is the biggest arsenal on my vanity table. inside there's a big hole to dispense the product, classic way to dispense liquid like most toners. when i went to japan, i didn't spend a long time before grabbing it so i have no idea how many version that's available. the one that i got is 500 ml. but when i got home, i saw the 250 ml version on local supermarket. if you're in surabaya, let me tell you, don't need to buy it preorder, you can grab it at papaya supermarket.

the scent: okay, this is weird and i can't explain it for sure. it's not scent free, but it's not fragrance either. it has subtle scent, not fruity, not floral, not woody.. but not unpleasant either. i don't know how to describe it but somehow it grows on me.

the product: it's a milky white liquid. if it was completely transparent, you might think it's water. being liquid makes it super easy to be absorbed. and it doesn't leave sticky feeling. as i've said before, this is a multitasking product. it can be used on face and also for body. i've tried using it as body moisturizer. but the whole skin of my body is parched. even though i routinely slathered it with body butter, somehow it still gets dry sometimes. and this so-called skin conditioner doesn't help at all. i do like using this to soak my tablet sheet mask. i put the tablet in the cap then pour the liquid until the tablet all soaked up. it takes two caps of this skin conditioner to fully soak the tablet. when i put the mask on my face, i can feel cooling sensation, and it hydrates just enough. perfect for daily use. lately i move some of it to a spray container so i can use it as mist or hydrating toner. if you're update with korean skincare method, then you'll know the 7 layers method. the idea is keep layering hydrating toner so you have plumped and hydrated skin. since i don't have that much hydrating toner, all i do is spritzing this toner on my face, then pat it again using my palm and then follow with my hadalabo. but i don't do this everyday. sometimes i just spritz and move to hadalabo, depends on my skin condition and whether i'm in rush or not.

the result: as body moisturizer, definitely not enough. my body skin seems like drinking all that stuff and nothing is left. and it still not enough. but as a mask soaking liquid, it's perfect for me. it gives me the hydration that my skin needs. i once use it after my skin being irritated, and i think it helps to soothe my skin. it's perfect for daily use since it's hydrating enough and lightweight. somehow it makes me reach my tablet mask more frequently. as hydrating toner it's also perfect. i can spritz or pat it on my face. and it will leave no sticky residue. my skin will absorb all of it.

definitely a great buy and i do recommend you to grab one if you found it. it's cheap and it comes in big size, and it's multitasking product. so it's a win. then it's lightweight enough so everyone can try it, but for dry skin, i don't think it's enough. for me myself, this is not enough as hydrating toner, so i usually layer it with hadalabo. but for oily skin, it will be perfect to hydrate your skin. but hey, if you're looking for cheap liquid/toner to soak your tablet mask sheet without hemorrhaging your wallet, then this is a great option.

the bottle

when i knew about freeman masks, the first mask that i wanted to try was the dead sea minerals one. i've read so many positive reviews about it that make me curious and want to try it myself. but unfortunately, it was sold out on several online shops, and i didn't want to jump in and buy a full size one. so i decided to buy other masks and waited. then when i found out that it was back on stock again, i bought it immediately, along with other travel-size samples as well. let's see whether it lives up my high hope or not.

the description from their website: unwind from the grind by treating skin to a much needed respite with this nutrient rich mask. dead sea minerals and sea salts replenish and balance moisture while purging clogged pores. lavender and bergamot help achieve an aroma-therapeutic bliss to rinse away stress for smooth and radiant skin. perfect for all skin types.

the packaging: the full size version comes in an ocean blue tube, the travel size sample comes in sachet with exact design as the full size one. at the back there are descriptions and instructions as well as the ingredients.

the scent: i thought it will smell like lavender since it has lavender as one of the main ingredients, but i don't think that it smells like one. i just think it smells fragrant, without any specific floral scent. anyway, it smells nice as usual. but i think i like the "acai" one better.

the product: the mask is a creamy teal blue clay, slightly darker than acai one. since it's very creamy, it's easy to spread on face. it will start to harden after about 5 minutes and i use it about 15 minutes before washing it off. it's easy to wash-off too. and it doesn't stain my washcloth even though it's vibrant teal blue. if i use this mask for my whole face, it will last for about 3-4 times, but since i mostly use it on my t-zone only, it lasts me numerous time, probably around 7-8 times.

the result: being a clay mask usually means it gets rid off your sebum. sometimes even too drying. but in this case. i think the avo one is drier than this one. which is a good sign since probably dry skin can try this mask. and i don't experience purging. it's weird because the description said that it will purge clogged pores, and usually i experience purging while using detox masks. however, it can get rid of excessive sebum and brighten my face afterwards, although the result is temporary.

overall, this is a decent clay mask. if you're afraid that clay mask might be too drying for you, you might want to try this. but as for, somehow i like the acai variant better than this one. probably since i have such high hopes for this that it seems like it fails short for me. but fear not, this is a cheap mask so you can try it on your own. after all, YMMV!

the packaging

mask on clean container

left: before middle: during right: after