Haul-Review / Makeup Tool: Drugstore - Beauty Blender & Smashbox

Drugstore was offering a 2-day 20% discount off my purchase and I went ahead with the Beauty Blender that I've been lemming for since I first laid eyes on it.

The set I bought comes with 2 egg-shaped sponges and 1 bottle of cleanser. The online price is USD39.95 before discount. The Smashbox eyeshadow (USD28.00) was just an impulse buy to sort of defray the shipping cost.

Shipping to borderlinx is free and shipping from Boderlinx to SG came up to approximately SGD20.00.


Item Name: Beauty Blender Makeup Sponge
Size: NA
Price: USD39.95
Available At: Drugstore.com
Picture Source: klutzbeauty.blogspot.com

Product Description from Manufacturer:

Now you can look like a movie star without the pricey services of a major make up artist. Introducing Beautyblender, the ultimate make up sponge applicator. Invented by top Hollywood make up artist Rea Ann Silva, Beautyblender has been created to leave you with a professional finish and a flawless complexion. Silva knows that the key to a perfect face is simple: a perfect blend. So forget your fingers or sharp-edged triangular sponges, these application methods waste make up and can leave visible streaks.

Beautyblender’s patent-pending elliptical shape makes application foolproof by allowing you to access hard-to-reach areas with stunning ease. Its suede texture is sensual to the touch and its unique curves fit the contours of your face, leaving your make up dazzling and undetectable. Beautyblender is latex free, non-allergenic and odor free.

Why I bought it:
I read about this product when I was doing research on makeup sponges some time back. Many celebrities and famous bloggers raved about this little miracle worker. And being someone who is always after a flawless skin finish, I finally decided to take the plunge and try out this product.

Packaging:
Elliptical shaped makeup sponge in bright shocking pink. Product is housed in a clear box. It comes with a plastic canister stand, this is to allow the sponge to dry when not in use.

Texture:
Similar texture to that of a normal sponge except that there are no sharp edges.

Price:
For a makeup sponge, it is EXPENSIVE! Which was why I took so long to finally decide on this purchase. The instruction says it can last for 3 months , given daily usage. I hope it does.

Road Test:
On the first day, I decided to try it dry with foundation dabbed straight from the back of my hand and onto my face. It didn't really wow me at all. In fact, it absorbed too much foundation, resulting in wastage and the finish was patchy and thick, probably from too much foundation.

On the second day, I decided to try it wet as per the recommendations from the website. The product swells to double it's size when wet.

This time round, instead of dabbing foundation from the back of my palm, I decided to spread the foundation on my face first, like what I would usually do. I then even out the foundation by stippling.

This time round, there was less wastage and the finish had a air-brushed feel to it. However, I spent a good amount of time to ensure that the stippling did not create any uneven patches. The finish was nice but it took too much of my time. Plus, I ended up with an uneven finish due to my less than stellar proficiency with stippling.

The third day, I decided to try it dry again. But this time round, I used it the same way as my normal sponge. The result, a smooth finish without the usual streaks. Top it with loose powder and the result is a velvety smooth and polished finish!!! I'm totally in love with it!!!!!

I also find that this sponge works better with foundations that has a thicker consistency. However, be cautioned of patchiness though.

Verdict:

This is one of those products that works very well, given that you found that one method that works for you.

This product is good but given the price and function, I find that it's a little over-priced. There are other alternatives out there that may do the same job at a fraction of the price. Example would be Sephora's Precision Sponge and Sonia Kashuk's Blending Sponge. In addition, it's currently not available in Singapore and have to be ordered in from USA.

Haul: Collective - Origins, MAC, Clinique, Dior, Prejume

This entry is a collective haul post on the stuff that I got some time back. So, this is really a guide for me to keep track of the things that I buy....

First up is Origins - Dr. Andrew Weil for Origins, Plantidote Mega-Mushroom Face Serum. My friend knows that I chomp through this serum like a mean grinding machine. And so, whenever there is an offer on this serum, she would be the first to sms me. I got 2 x 30ml at SGD25.00 each!

Next up is the MAC 217 brush and this is my second 217. This brush is very soft and perfect for blending out the eyeshadows! SGD33.00 available at all MAC Counters across Singapore.

Next, the Clinique Take The Day Off Makeup Remover for Lids, Lashes and Lips (SGD39.00). My sampler bottle ran out and I've decided to purchase the full sized bottle since this worked quite well to remove my eye makeup.

Next up, is the Dior - Diorskin Nude Natural Glow Fresh Powder Makeup (SGD70.00). I was looking for a loose powder and the BA recommend this loose powder to me since I'm using the Dior Skin Nude Foundation. The BA assured that it wouldn't be heavy since I recalled that one of the BA at Takashimaya told me that this is actually mineral powder foundation. However, I really think that using this powder on top of the Diorskin Nude foundation is a little overkill for me. In addition, the actual size is really puny and paltry, compared to other Dior Loose Powder that are bigger in size with about the same price.

Lastly, Prejume hair wax that my hairstylist brought back from Hong Kong for me (SGD29.00). I totally like this hair wax. It has a rice paste texture , styles but not oily at all!!

Haul: Tangs - IPSA Pure Protect Foundation + Pore Clear Base

Tangs was having their closed door Christmas Preview Sale on 16 Nov 2010 and I decided to get the Ipsa foundation that I've been lemming for so long now.

The crowd wasn't as bad as I thought when I got there in the evening and I went straight to the counter. I was contemplating between the liquid and cream foundation but I went for the liquid in the end as I liked the texture better.

IPSA Pure Protect Liquid Foundation in 100

SGD63.00 - Available at Tangs Orchard

The BA matched me to 100, the lightest available shade and I was kind of taken aback since I usually sit on the second lightest shade instead of the lightest. However, the BA explained to me that since I'm more inclined towards neutral, 100 suits me the best. She tested on my jawline and I have to agree with her.

I've already opened the bottle to try as I write this post.  And the foundation matched my skintone perfectly! It almost became my dupable HG until it started to melt on me by afternoon. But it does have a lot of potential.Will do a review entry on it when I find time.

IPSA Pore Clear Base

SGD48.00 - Available at Tangs Orchard

I also bought their Pore Clear Base. This is supposed to help fill my pores and cover light freckles. As usual, it's the pores that I'm more concerned about.

IPSA Foundation Sponge

SGD13.00 - Available at Tangs Orchard

Lastly, I got the foundation sponge to top up to SGD150.00 to enjoy a direct 10% off on top of the Tangs 12% rebate.

As usual, the BA stuffed me with lots of their latest Metalbolizer sample to try out.

For those interested in Ipsa products, please note that the one and only one Ipsa counter in the whole of Singapore is located at Tangs Orchard.

Haul: Look what came in the mail...... Hakuhodo Brushes..

Hakuhodo, Hakuhodo, Hakuhodo.... *Like some broken recorder.*

Our paths crossed when I learnt about this brand through 牛爾老師's recommendation in a magazine, many years ago. At that point of time, I was still a poor student, earning a measly pay check that was only enough to see me through my daily uni expenses.

Throughout the years, despite having started working, I just couldn't bring myself to purchase these brushes for they are EXPENSIVE.

But since I've been working so hard recently, I decided to bite the bullet and BUY!

So what is so special about Hakuhodo brushes? Prestigious awards aside, it is the OEM of MAC brushes. And it is touted to be better than MAC.

They, are the real McCoys of the makeup brush world (at least in my world, given how much I revers them).

And so, I went to the Hakuhodo USA website to choose my brush. Boy was I spoilt for choices. In the end, I settled for their Signature Collection - the S series. I almost went amok but I reined myself in, keeping in mind that I still have outstanding debts to settle.

Ok, I shall jump to the pics now because I think I'm starting to bore people with my incessant ramblings. By the way, for those who are interested to get the brushes, please purchase from the US site. Due to rising Yen and weakening USD, there is a good difference of $10-15 for the same brush.

To read more about Hakuhodo, visit the website.

The parcel was very well packaged and even come wrapped with orange tissue. I felt like I was opening up a Christmas present!



The tissue reveals a nice pink gift box with the Hakuhodo giftwrap paper securing it in the middle.

 

Opening the box, there is a care instruction sheet for your precious lil things.




The beauties within.

Ok, I have to admit I cheated. The plastic looks crinky because this was a retake shot. The original shot was not very ideal. So, I slotted the brushes back into their plastic for the shot. I got the S100 and S110 from their Vermillion Series.


Some close ups of my beauties...

Hakuhodo's logo with the word Misako

Gorgeous Vermillion shiny handle.

The Hakuhodo brushes are definitely in a class of their own. The bristles are so soft, luxurious and not prickly at all. I can safely say that once you have Hakuhodo, you'll throw out your MACs. Ling can attest to that! I'm already lemming for more!!

The prices are steep but it's worth every pennies. There are other series that have the same kind of bristles; with different ferrel and handle finishes at lower prices.

I promised Ling that we'll go for another batch near CNY.

Lemmings for the next round:

B512BkSL Highlight Brush L angled

H602 Slide Face Brush angled

S104 Powder Brush round

Spotlight / Tool: Unii Cosmetics - The Unii Palette

I read about this on ParisB's My Women Stuff and the more I found out about it, the more interested I became.

So, what is a Unii Palette? In essence, it's an empty palette whereby you can consolidate all your depoted items into one. Gone are the days whereby you carry multiple plattes in your cosmetics pouch for the sole purpose of touch-ups. No more fumbling and digging.

How does the Unii Palette works? It's definitely not rocket science; and someone out there may be using the exact method right now. All it takes is an empty palette lined with a metal sheet and adhesive magnetic sheets to do the "magic". Simple and you can even rearrange or change to another Unii Palette with minimal effort.

I'm starting to really like this product although I admit that many would regard this as a good to have item; given the retail price of USD29.00, exclusive of shipping charges. But I really like the look of this product and there's even a cute movable thumb-grip.

So, any Singaporeans interested to get this too? I think I might want to organize a spree to bring this item in.

Haul: Essential Tools

Stock on some essential skincare and makeup tools recently.... They are not exactly skincare or makeup but they are part and parcel of my whole regime.

These were bought from SaSa, travel containers and spatulas (S$1-S$5). I got other stuff as well but I wanted to group my hauls according to type as I shopped for several tools this time round.

I'm most interested in trying out the big container. I first saw this in a nail salon whereby the ladies there use it to hold nail polish remover. The vent of the pump is upward facing and it is so interesting! (And yes, I'm easily amazed [too]).

I was thinking of using it to store my Kose Sekkisei Lotion, which by the way, is a pour bottle with a gaping hole; which sometimes results in wastage from pouring too much.

Next up is my FAVORITE cotton pads. Ok, not exactly my favorite but they are the only ones that are economical and yet, fulfills my purpose. It's the Lily Bell Patting Cotton Puff (S$3.00) from Sasa.

So, what is so special about the about these cotton puffs as compared to common cotton pads? Each cotton puff is made up of 3 layers. First layer is comes with a rough surface mesh, covering the cotton below. This layer helps exfoliation when using Japanese exfoliating / softening toners.

The other side of the puff is a layer that has a smoother surface, which I usually use for my soothing toners. Some of the Japanese lotions uses this particular surface for application, allowing better absorption.

These two layers uses material that do not shed or ball up as compared to regular cotton pads.

So, what's the third layer? It's actually a membrance in the middle; to prevent wastage. Traditional cotton pads usually gets soaked through due to it's absorption properties. The middle layer helps to distribute product more evenly across the surface rather than through the cotton.

It might cost more as compared to regular cotton but I swear by it whenever I use the Sekkisei Lotion for mild exfoliation.

There are other brands and Watsons has also come up with their own version but I'll stick to Lily Bell until something better comes along or when I can no longer afford it.

Lastly, wedge sponges and powder puffs from MAC (S$8.00 each pack). I'm totally in love with MAC wedge sponges. They do a good job of evening out my foundation and giving me a polished look. As for the powder puffs, they are meant for my MAC powders. The original ones that came with the powders simply fell apart after being abused by me.. (Haha)

Haul: Collective Drugstore Hauls + New Partner

It's a public holiday today in Singapore. It was this very same day, 45 years ago that we declared our independence. Happy National Day, Singapore!! The place that nurtured and made me who I am today..

Anyway, judging from my last post, I've been away for almost a month. This period has been a difficult one for me. It's still is but I think it'll turn for the better moving forward (I hope).

First up, my new partner in the blogger sphere... The Toshiba Portege T110 with 11.1" screen. I totally love the color and the size. This would be my new blogging partner moving forward.

I'm still trying to get used to it as the keyboard is smaller and the keys are placed differently as compared to other laptops, due to it's size.

Next up are some of my random drugstore conquests. Most of them are products from new brands available in Singapore for the first time. I just wasn't able to contain my excitement for them. Hoho..

First one is Heme Magic T-ZOne Peeling Mask For Girls (S$14.90). This is a peel off mask meant for the T-Zone and nose. Heme is actually a line targeted at young adolescent girls. Of course, I'm long past my adolescent years but it never hurts to try alternative products.

The next one is also under Heme, the 24hr Hydrating Detox-White Night Jelly (S$18.90). This was the product that Kevin 老师 introduced during 女人我最大 many years ago, when I first got access to cable TV. And it was this product that drew my attention to this line. Many years later, I finally laid hands on this product that I've been coveting.

The next one is a brand that is also very well known in Japan and Taiwan. It's the drugstore line released by Shiseido, Aqua Label.

I was wandering around in Watsons, trying to decide whether I should get something from the brand as I already have a huge stash of skincare at home that would probably last me another 2 years. And between Heme and Aqualabel, I was more keen on Heme. But after the SA explained the line to me, I decided to go for the Bright White EX Serum (S$35.50).

Due to my ignorant adolescent years, I already have quite a few distintive brown spots on my face. I had entertained thoughts on buying whitening products from either Lancome or Shiseido. But was put off by the heft price tag and my ma's upbringing.

Yes, she opposed the use of any whitening products, saying the ingredients would make the skin "thin". Furthermore, the word "Acid" don't usually sit well with my sensitized skin. Anyway, since Aqualabel's parent company is Shiseido, I decided to take the plunge and buy the whitening serum. After all, it's a less hefty price to pay compared to the likes of it's more luxurious cousin.

Up next, is Kanebo's Kate Gel Eyeshadow in White (S$14.50). This is a shimmery gel eyeshadow that is similar to Jill Stuart's Eye Jellies. Actually, I absolutely do not need this eyeshadow. I have more than enough eyeshadow to probably last me for the next few years since I don't do alot of eye makeup. So why? This is purely for retail therapy. I'll see if I could find the right occasion to use it. Otherwise, I might decide to make it a giveaway.

The next items are sheet masks. Truth to be told, I'm not exactly a sheet mask person. They can be really messy and I don't like the feeling of having something covering my face, feels as if I'm suffocating. But I find that I'm drawn to buying them nevertheless. Probably due to the price and the wide selection of properties offered.

This is something that I found in Guardian Pharmacy. I don't usually shop in Guardian since Watsons offers a better variety of products and I get rebates at Watsons. This purchase was a result of lunching alone for quiet time. And yes, I like to lunch alone. It helps to calm my nerves and organize my thoughts for the next half of the day.

The masks are from a Korean Brand call Leaders Clinic - Clinie and unlike conventional sheet masks, these are actually silk cellulose masks. They retail for S$4.95 each and has several selections to choose from. I got 2 of them. One is the P.D.T AC-Dressing Ampoule Mask and the Caviar Repairing Essential Mask.

Based on the description on the packaging, the P.D.T AC-Dressing masks is supposed to help combat acne and contains a full bottle of ampoule in each mask. The Caviar Mask, as the name suggests, contains caviar extracts and other ingredients to help hydrate and pamper the skin.

Next up, are some of my basic tools. Sponge applicators and medical needles.

I'm a klutz with makeup and sometimes I find using exotic tools such as brushes somewhat complicated for me.

The needles are for my cystic pimples. I'll use them to poke through the pimples instead of squeezing them and bruising the skin in the process. I used to follow my ma's method of heating up a alcohol swiped sewing needle but I think the medical needles are so much more convenient and hygienic.

Lastly, I've been experiencing difficulties in bowel movements and decided to get some external help from Fybogel. Hopefully, it will help with my bowel movements and in turn, improve my skin condition.

Ok, I think I've spoken enough. My my, it's a lengthy posts for this small number of products.. lol

Haul: Everyday Mineral Brushes

The Everyday Minerals (EDM) brushes that I ordered some time back via an online spree has finally arrived in the mail today. Hoot!

There has been many good reviews of the EDM brushes, and I had to have a go at them. Plus, EDM was offering a 45% off regular sized items. So, I was able to buy 2 for about the price of 1.

I bought the Flat Top Brush (USD10.00) and the Long Handled Kabuki Brush (USD10.00). They are two of the most raved brushes by beauty bloggers and beauty forums.

These brushes are made using cruelty-free bristles and renewable bamboo handles. So, not only are they great makeup tools, you are also doing your part to help save the environment.

The bristles are incredibly soft. So much better than my Sephora Bronzer brush.

A closer look at my new babies:




The Flat Top Brush

The top view. Sorry for the dirty brush. I was so excited upon receiving the brushes that I took out my foundation to try, without cleaning the brush. But I removed the foundation right away after testing the brush.

The Long Handled Kabuki Brush

Top view

That's all for now. I'm planning a mini giveaway as part of my BD celebration. But I haven been able to find time to shop for giveaway items. Will see how it goes..

Hauls: Drugstore Finds

Aloha, more haul photos. :) This time, a trip to the local Drugstore, Watson's. Over the recent years, Watson's have expanded her products profile in Singapore at a very fast rate. Particularly the Japanese and Korean Drugstore brands. Hopefully, it would catch up with their counterparts in Taiwan and Hong Kong.

Anyways, the items I bought...




First, a Scholl Feet File (S$7.75). I had one before but it broke and so, replacing with a new one. I have tried many products and this is the one that works best for me. Strong enough to rid the dead skincells, yet gentle enough to not cause any broken skin

Next is a new line of product that Watson's brought in. It's the Kiss Me range of false eyelashes (S$9.90). I bought something that looks less dramatic. By the way, does anyone know whether I should apply mascara when using false eyelases with criss-cross. If yes, how do I go about doing that?

By the way, this set comes with eyelash glue. I didn't see it because it was hidden by the opaque part of the packaging. I only saw it when I opened the box.

Next is Koji Eyelash Glue. I'm searching for a cheaper alternative to the Duo Eyelash Glue. And I had to get this tube when I saw it. It retails for S$2.90 and it's a small tube. So, even if it goes bad, I wont feel the heartache.

Up next is the Koji Mascara Protector and Comb (S$8.00). You use this during mascara applications so that mascara doesn't stain the eyelids. There's even a comb that you use to separate mascara clumps. Frankly speaking, I really feel that this is more of a marketing gimmick. A good to have contraption that we can live without. But since I've been trying to perfect the skill of applying mascara to my bottom lashes, I thought this little piece of tool would help me. Hopefully, it will.

Lastly, it's the SebaMed Clear Acne Anti-Pimple Gel (S$9.95). I've been getting some serious acne problems lately and needed some help with it. I wasn't keen on using Oxy as it is known to be very drying. So I got something milder. I've been using it since. As far as I'm concern, this might seem too mild when it comes to treating cystic pimples.