『Review』Nature Republic: Original Power Whitening & Lineless Ampoule

//DASHES IN
I'M STILL ALIVE.
SURPRISE. HAHA
 Anyways. Hello friends! <3 I haven't sat down and written a blog post in such a long time; it's actually a kinda refreshing change to the cosplay binge I've been on. Lately, I've been stressing over Otakon and rushing to try to get all my cosplays done, so I haven't gotten to do much of anything else. However, the amount of sewing and embellishing I've been doing has really taken a toll on my back. So I decided to finally take a break and write up a review!
(By the way, I recently got a super kind message from an anon in my Ask.FM. She/he said that they missed reading my blogposts, so I have them to thank for encouraging me to start this up again. A shout out to you if you're reading; you know who you are. <3)

Today I'm reviewing another item I got from my visit to see my boyfriend a while back.
Nature Republic's Original Power Whitening & Lineless Ampoule!

Claims and Packaging

The ampoule claims to brighten dull skin and reduce visible wrinkles. With myself, I can't really vouch for the wrinkles claim, but I am able to for whitening. 

The packaging is also adorable! I've always adored white and gold because of how royal it looks. <3 The bottle is glass like and is capped by a glass dropper. Though the dropper should be easy to use, I find myself unable to squeeze up the product sometimes. 

It's a little bigger than Lioele's whitening ampoule, which I also reviewed. You can read it here! (insert link)

Active Ingredients

Caviar Extract - Very rich in various vitamins and amino acids that help slow down the wrinkling process by moisturizing. It helps to keep the skin firm and provides the highest level of hydration. The extract also forms a thin layer of protection from the skin and outer elements (such as UV rays, climate, drying).

Italian Orange Water - Helps hydrate and soothe irrupted or sensitive skin. It reduces blemishes and helps unclog pores when used like a toner.

Texture

It comes out as a slightly watery, white substance. Though not very thick, around a pea size amount is able to cover my entire face. It leaves the skin slightly shiny and moist, but goes away after rubbing it in.

I usually use this at night after my toner. I think it works best while sleeping since your skin isn't exposed to many other elements then.

Smell

I was surprised at how nice this smelled! It's something that I really can't explain that well, but it has a very pleasant, faint floral scent mixed with the generally sweet fragrance. Though not having a lingering scent, it's very refreshing when you apply it on your face.

Final Thoughts

Though very appeasing to apply, it's whitening properties are quite dull. I maybe able to tell a super slight change in the brightness of my face, but the ampoule had little effect in actually lightening my skin tone. There was very little whitening; nothing as much as I expected. I did, however, notice some of my small smile wrinkles getting less noticeable! The smell is very comforting and it calms me down when I massage it onto my face. Though the product is a bit ineffective and doesn't completely live up to it's claims, it hasn't cause me to break out drastically. Plus, the container is super sturdy despite it's glass like appearance. I've dropped it more times than I can count and it's still looking as chic and elegant as when I first opened it.

Pros

• Sturdy
• Elegant
• Refreshing scent
• Reduces small wrinkles
• Pleasant to apply

Cons

• Poor whitening/brightening properties
• Sometimes difficult to get product in dropper

Would I Repurchase?

I actually liked this a bit better that the Lioele Whitening Ampoule, but I feel like the whitening properties weren't as strong. Depending on the circumstances, I might repurchase this to continue to reduce my smile lines. However, once I'm satisfied, I would return to Lioele for whitening.

Final Score: 8/10

As always, thanks for reading guys! <3 I'm going to disappear for another while, but I'll be back. B)

Love you all! ;v;

☆ gin ★

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If you happen to follow me or like my posts, comment below and link your blog! I'll be sure to check it out. ★

『Review』TheBodyShop: Tea Tree Oil Skin Clearing Lotion

"Like, if there was a drought, and people was thirsty, and one man had a large cask of water and gave a sip to none. Then he'd be a killer with no blood on his hands." 
-Assassin's Creed IV

Hello everyone! Again, my apologies for not posting more frequently. 

(sorry for being a lazy butt ahahah-)

So many people are close/already taking finals. I happen to not be, since our finals are after winter break. The reason I haven't been really keeping up with blogging is because of video games- HAHA

If you guys didn't know already, I'm actually a huge gamer. I mostly play story games and mmorpgs, since first person shooters don't interest me and I'm not one for horror (unless it has a good plot). I recently got into Assassin's Creed again. Sadly, I don't have any more consoles, so I settled with watching walkthoughs. I've literally spent probably more than 14 hours watching them now. LOOL 

(pls don't hurt me for being so unproductive OTL)

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Anyways! On to today's review!
Since it's almost Christmas, I wanted to do something festive.
Well-
This container is green-
That's a Christmas color-
Yep-

itried

I got this product from a "Buy 1, Get 2 Free" sale from the TheBodyShop quite a long time ago. It came in a tiny bottle for around 9USD.

Claims

Sutible for blemished skin. Lightweight hydration with shine-control for clearer looking skin. Infused with tamanu oil.

"The Body Shop difference: Tea Tree Skin Clearing Lotion will moisturize with a light, mattifying lotion that hydrates skin and controls oil while helping to clear and prevent blemishes. 

Community Fair Trade tea tree oil, lemon tea tree, and tamanu oil work together to keep skin clear by helping to prevent blemishes and blackheads, and controlling excess oil. Best for combination or oily skin. 

Active Ingredient

• Tea Tree Oil  - Great for getting rid of pimples! It has disinfecting and soothing properties that won't strip your face of it's natural oils. All natural oils also won't clog pores or cause further damage.
• Lemon Tea Tree - Also used for inflammatory acne. It has natural disinfecting properties with the addition of being able to keep excess oils at bay.
• Tamanu Oil - Known for it's amazing skin healing properties. It promotes the formation of new tissue, replacing the rough scarred skin caused by acne. It also has disinfecting properties.

Texture

The lotion comes out in gel like formula that's almost slightly watery. Even though it isn't thick and creamy, it holds and won't drip. It's also very spreadable, making a little go a long way. A pea sized amount on my finger tip is usually enough for my whole face. It smooths on very nicely, leaving a soft matte finish.

Smell

It smells extremely medical. At first I hated the smell, always having to hold my breath whenever I applied it. However, as I started using it everyday, I actually started liking it. LOL

Though it smells pungent with herbs, it's also very relaxing; this is probably because of the lemon tea tree oil. For people with sensitive noses, this may not be the best moisturizer for you.

Final Thoughts

Amaaaaazing! I've been looking a while for a lotion with tea tree oil. When I found this, I was super skeptical since it was encased in a tiny bottle that seemed like it would last me a month (at most). However, one I started using it, I noticed such a change in my face. Along with my WonderPore Toner, it balanced the oil levels of my face out perfectly. Though it did cause a bit of a burning feeling the first few times, which apparently went away around a week as read from others. Mine didn't, probably because of my super sensitive skin.
 I also noticed my scars fading exceedingly, turning them into small red/brown dots on my face. Most of my small forehead acne have disappeared, with the exception of the few big one. It's perfect for daily use and leaves a very nice matte finish with great blemish combat.

Pros

• Moisturizing 
• Fades scars
• Relatively inexpensive
• Minimal product usage
• Leaves a matte finish
• Tones oil levels 
• Combats blemishes

Cons

• Burning sensation
• Pungent smell 
• Might be too intense for sensitive skin

Would I repurchase?

Probably not, just because of the burning feeling. I might get just a bottle of tea tree oil to fight those pimples, but I'd like to stick to something that won't burn my face as much. 

Final Score: 8.5/10

Thank you so much for reading! I'll be leaving for New York soon, very excited to see my boyfriend after a half a year. ///A/// <3 Any suggestions on where to go? I'll be around the Time Square area.

Have a happy holidays! <3 Don't forget to eat lots!

☆ gin ★

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If you happen to follow me or like my posts, comment below and link your blog! I'll be sure to check it out. ★

『Review』Tony Moly: Cat Chu Wink Liptint (Cherry)

Hey hey guys! It's finally almost Thanksgiving break, which I'm super excited for.

My insomnia has been coming back and I haven't been sleeping all that well. :'< Hopefully I can catch up on some shut eye this weekend when I'm not busy preparing food.

What will you guys be doing for Thanksgiving?

But on another note, I got off my lazy butt and finally took pictures for today's review, Tony Moly's Cat Chu Wink Liptint in Cherry!

I actually bought this from a shop on Storenvy called Mieuku! A friend of mine shared this on their Facebook and it happened to catch my eye. After looking around, I decided I would purchase this cute little liptint.

It was very reasonably priced and had free shipping! The owner was also very kind. If you're interested in Korean fashion or cosmetics, they're a great store to check out!

Product Information

I got this picture from eBay. It's poorly translated, but hopefully you can get the gist of it. LOL

Basically, it's a liptint that won't harm your lips, but instead will heal them. They claim that it's absorbed rapidly and has a very animate color.

Active Ingredients

• Jojoba Oil - an extracted oil from the Jojoba shrub. Used as a natural moisturizer. For those confused about the preventing oxidation part, it relatively means preventing aging of the skin.
• Stevia - actually used as a natural sweetener with no calories. I'm not sure if what they claim in the poster is completely true.

The applicator is similar to lipgloss, but flatter. The color looks super pigmented on the brush!

I was actually super scared for a second because of the blood-like it seemed when I dabbed it onto my hand. After blending it out, however, it was so much more to the color I imagined. Still extremely pigmented though!

Wow. I really applied too much. LOL

This liptint is very vibrant, just like the claims stated. I had put on two coats instead of one because of my experience with The Body Shop's liptint. With these two coats, it lasted me a nice 5 hours with drinking and eating. 

It also slightly smells of cherries; now I'm wondering if the other ones smell like their respective color. Though it did absorb very quickly, the jojoba oil really didn't help out that much. It just left my lips feeling the way they started, which I don't mind. Nothing a little lip balm (which I am wearing in both pictures) can't help! 

Pros

• Vibrant color
• Absorbs quickly
• No unpleasant smell
• Adorable
• Long lasting
• Affordable

Cons

• No moisturizing properties
• Didn't really heal anything

Rating: 4.5/5

Would I repurchase?

Yes! This has been my favorite liptint by far!

Thank you so much for reading and I hope you found it helpful! <3

☆ gin ★

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If you happen to follow me or like my posts, comment below and link your blog! I'll be sure to check it out. ★

『Review』GEO: Princess Mimi (Bambi) - Sesame Grey

Whooo~! Happy Saturday! It's been a super long week for me, but now it's finally the weekend. ;A; <3

Today I'm going to be reviewing Princess Mimi (Bambi series) lenses in Sesame Grey! I got these a while ago from EyeCandy's for my Mikasa cosplay. Since these looked so amazing, I decided a post would be necessary.

Now, before I get into this review, I'd like to state that I wear prescribed clear contacts regularly. If it's your first time inserting lenses into your eyes, it will be difficult. ;v;
Please also note that frauds and fake lenses do exist! They could potentially harm your eyes; be cautious of where you buy them and always clean your hands throughly before handling!

Here's some information from the site:

Brand: GEO 

Origin: South Korea 

Water content: 38% - 42% 

Diameter: 15.0 mm 

Base Curve: 8.7 

Duration: 1 year disposable 

"The latest hit from GEO! As seen on Japanese gyaru model Tsubasa Masuwaka 益若つばさ. Right now, this is all the rage in Japan!" 

It has a very high water content so it doesn't get dry easily. I only had to use eyedrops once in a 6 hour period!


http://www.eyecandys.com/geo-bambi-princess-mimi-sesame-grey/

I got the contacts bubble wrapped in a little envelope. It included EyeCandy's card with a wear and care guide. Very nice packaging! I do think they forgot to include the lens case that was supposed to come with my purchase, but thats fine.

EyeCandy's is a site that sells Korean cosmetics and lenses. They've always exceeded my expectations, making them a great place for first buys. The lenses there are all trustworthy and real!

(*note*: I am in no way affiliated with EyeCandy's. I'm doing this only of my own opinion and experiences.)

I let the contacts soak overnight in multipurpose to completely remove the storage solution. To those who are new to contacts, never forget to do this! Storage solution is not gentle and will burn your eyes. ;'< 

They actually looked very natural! When I wore them to school, I got many compliments on how big my eyes looked. I love the slight brown ring in the center that helps blend the color. The black ring around the outside is also great at creating an edgy and finished look. 

My Thoughts

Comfort: 5/5

Even after 6 hours of wear, I hardly felt them at all. These were as comfortable as regular contacts. With the help of eyedrops, I literally forgot they were there at all.

However, make sure you never wear contacts for more than 8 hours, no matter the comfort. Circle lenses are not recommended for daily wear! Opaque lenses block oxygen, so make sure you always give your eyes breathing time.

Enlargement: 5/5 

There was a definite difference in my eye size after putting these on! They looked very natural on my dark brown eyes, but also made them pop and stand out. I'm very satisfied on how it gave me a mysterious and stoic look, perfect for my character.

Pros

• Super comfortable 
• Very enlarging 
• Natural but mysterious 
• Great for photoshoots

Cons

• Literally none that I can think of!

I hope you all found this helpful! Thank you so much for reading. <3

Until next time!

☆ gin ★

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If you happen to follow me or like my posts, comment below and link your blog! I'll be sure to check it out. ★

『Review』Neutrogena Natural: Purifying Facial Cleanser

Hey guys! Gin here. 

I apologize for not having done a review in a such a long time. Everything has been extremely stressful and irritating for me. :<

Because of this, I've been breaking out almost everywhere. My nose, forehead, temples--EVERYWHERE.

I got this from the drugstore a months ago. Absolutely loving it, I decided I would share my review on it.

So, lets get on to review Neutrogena Natural's Purifying Facial Cleanser! 

Description

It claims that, "Neutrogena Natural...cleanser gently washes away impurities and detoxified pores for fresh, clear skin. This face wash contains natural salicylic acid found in Willowbark bionutrients to penetrate deep into pores to detoxify and help remove dirt, oil and makeup, while rinsing clean without pore-clogging residue. Suitable for acne prone skin."

Active Ingredient

Willowbark:

Willowbark is a natural and organic ingredient that has anti-inflammatory properties, relieving swelling and sensitivity. It's also a natural form of salicylic acid. Salicylic acid is used to remove dead skin cells, allowing new ones to grow. This also helps clogged pores and wrinkles. As the dead skin is being removed, your skin becomes healthy and radiant.

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Smell: 

Absolutely amazing. It's smell kinda citrus-y but with candy and tea. The smell will actually slightly stick with you even after washing. However, it's not strong. Just ever so slightly, making you feel very clean.

Consistency:

A bit gel like, but instead watered down. It's clear and feels like regular liquid soap when touched. When applied and massaged onto the face, it lathers into a slight foam that is somewhat difficult to rinse off. It's not oily, just that there's so much it requires a few splashes. A little goes a long way for this product!

Effectiveness: 

As I said, I've been having breakouts and blemishes due to stress and school. After using this for around a month, I started realize that the only problem area I had left was my temples (acne in that area is usually caused by overworking, so I'm not surprised). The wash worked really well in washing away my oils. I actually noticed a slight difference in my skin color as well, probably because of the willowbark. My face is usually never oily now and I love it!

Removing Make-up

I tested with NYX Waterproof Liner, NYX Liquid Liner, and NYX Lip Cream. (Did I mention I love NYX products? ❤)

It worked better than soap and water, but worse than regular make up removers. I wouldn't recommend using this for removing make up unless you want to look like a panda and to scrub your eyes like crazy.

Pros: 

• Cleaning oily skin
• Keeping dry skin hydrated
• Preventing small breakouts
• Fantastic smell
• No harsh chemicals

Cons:

• Bad at removing make up
• Slightly difficult to rinse
• Will not work for extreme acne

Final Rating: 7/10

Thanks for reading! ❤

☆ gin ★

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If you happen to follow me or like my posts, comment below and link your blog! I'll be sure to check it out. ★