[Review] My Beloved Hakuhodo Face Brushes in K002/B002 and G512/B512

If you like makeup brushes, you must know Hakuhodo.  I only started going crazy over makeup about a year ago and before that, I could never understand why people use makeup brushes.  I mean, I would settle for products that already include small brushes as part of the packaging, or I’d be just fine with Q-tips and what not.  That’s before I got into the world of eyeshadow palettes, K-beauty craze, youtube tutorials where everyone use brushes… so… now I own a bunch myself too LOL XD

I chanced upon the Hakuhodo store in Shibuya Hikarie when living in Japan.

Just look at variety!  VERY wallet-dangerous place to go.

I own brushes from other raved brands like MAC too, but I think Hakuhodo is my favourite for brushes.  Maybe I am just Japan-crazy haha.

A LITTLE HISTORY

“The Hakuhodo head office is located about 20 kilometers east of the city of Hiroshima. Hakuhodo was founded in 1974 in the town of Kumano and for around 200 years Kumano has had a long history in the production of brushes. At our main factory in Hiroshima we manufacture approximately 500,000 brushes a month. Our efficient production process which is based on the traditional techniques of truly skilled craftsmen continues to support this. We do not rely on machine manufacturing. In order to maintain the high quality of production, all our brushes are hand-crafted. We have obtained a patent for a method of arranging a brush head which enables us to achieve mass production of quality brushes. This ongoing production policy has enabled us to achieve the honour of receiving the first Prime Minister’s prize of Monodzukuri Japan Grand Award.”

Craftsmen.  All brushes hand-crafted.  No machine manufacturing.  

In today’s world???  WOW. さすが日本。(meaning Japan is amazing)

Let me move on to the brushes! I would like to share the #002 and #512 lovelies~

In its brand-new unopened state.  A cute little Hakuhodo booklet on how to use and maintain the brushes but in Japanese only~

After you snip off the outer plastic casing, there is another plastic cover for the brush!  This one with an opening at the top, so you can continue to use it when travelling.

First…. let me review the ultra-luxurious K002 / B002!

Brand:    Hakuhodo
Product:  K002 / B002 Powder Brush Round and Flat
Hair:     Blue-squirrel (the softest possible on earth)
Price:    JPY 7,344 (~USD 70 at time of posting)
Type:     Makeup brush
Origin:   Made in Japan
Website:  Hakuhodo website on K002

“Suitable for dry, sensitive skin. Bristles made from blue squirrel have little spring but are ultra soft, coverage will be natural and sheer. Less durable, so use the surface of the bristles gently with the handle held flat. Although it works well for lucent powder, it is not suitable for liquid or oil based products.”

Use application	Finishing, Powder, Highlighter
Hair	Blue squirrel
Handle	Wood black (I got the limited Gold one!)
Ferrule	Nickel-plated brass
Size	Brush length:190mm　Hair length:50mm　Hair thickness:14.5mm

Some countries call this brush K002, some call it B002… so I shall just refer to this as #002 for simplicity 🙂

Gorgeous gorgeous thick gold handle.  Super classy and beautiful.

Brush length 190mm.  It’s light and perfect for travelling.

Hair length 50mm.  On the long side.  Dome-shaped best for that sheer natural finish.

Hair thickness 14.5mm.  The denseness is JUST RIGHT – not too dense where you pack on too much because this is meant for a thin layer of natural-finish loose lucent powder, and not too thin where you can’t pick up enough powder.  Seriously, JUST RIGHT.

The top is tapered to reach the natural contours of your face like the nose area or under the eyes.  Even though the brush area looks large, the tapering makes it possible to reach all intricate parts of your face – perfectly.

The girl at the Hakuhodo counter told me this is made from blue-squirrel hair and is the softest possible hair used for makeup brushes.  I was like…o_0 “blue squirrel?” What animal is that? haha.

This is it.  Omigosh so cute!!!!

I wish I could tell you how ULTRA-SOFT it felt on the face.  It is seriously the softest-ever material I ever ever felt in the world!  A luxury, really.

Trying to “show” the softness.  I hope you can feel it.  It is really an indulgence on the face.

Of course, before I give it 5000 points (out of 100), there are 2 down-sides.

1.  The cost.  USD 70-80 is not cheap for a makeup brush – it belongs to the high-end class.  But if you apply loose powder daily, you NEED to try this brush.  The hair used, the shape, the amount of product-pickup, the sheer natural finish it gives, the overall product quality.  I seriously can sense how much thought and care the Japanese put into hand-crafting this product.

2.  Another is that this is natural hair and the sales girl told me to wash it only once a year??  Crazy.  As I have acne prone skin, I try to keep my brushes clean and wash them at least once weekly.  But water is not good friends with blue-squirrel hair (apparently) and she said the hair quality may change if I wet it alot (what a threat!).  Well, so far I didn’t notice any change at all, but I will continue to take special care.

Next up………. the G512 / B512 Highlighter Blush L Angled.

Brand:    Hakuhodo
Product:  G512 / B512 Highlighter Brush L Angled
Hair:     Blue-squirrel + Goat
Price:    JPY 5,400 (~USD 50 at time of posting)
Type:     Makeup brush
Origin:   Made in Japan
Website:  Hakuhodo website on G512

“This highlighter brush is carefully designed to apply makeup around the eye. When you use this brush, use light strokes as if you are removing excess product . This enables you to achieve a natural but glamorous finish.  You can also use it as a blush or shading brush.”  

Use application	Highlighter, Blush, Shading,  Contouring
Hair	Blue squirrel & Goat
Handle	Wood black  (I got the Gold version!)
Ferrule	Nickel-plated brass
Size	Brush length:164mm　Hair length:34mm　Hair thickness:10.2mm

The brush length is 164mm.  Shorter than #002.  Very agile and good control on all your face-shaping, face-highlighting needs.

Hair length 34mm.  Shorter than #002 again as it is made to place product more specifically where you want it.  It is really a multi-tasker to me – for blush, highlight and shading / contouring.

Hair thickness 10.2mm.  It is much more denser than #002 (which is really fluffy soft like dreamy cotton balls), but the density helps you pick up product abit more easily to place them exactly where you want it.

Hair is made from blue squirrel AND goat so it is slightly firmer for its very purpose for cheeks and face contouring.  But because there IS blue-squirrel hair in it, it is still as luxurious to touch it on your face and feels really soft too.  Definitely the softest-yet-firm-enough cheek brush I have tried (compared to for example MAC #168 large angled contour brush).

Because it is mixed with cheaper goat hair, the price is not that unreachable ~USD50 (although still considered pretty high-end).

MY VERDICT

 Pros

• Unbelievably superb quality – from hair to handle to ferrule.
• Hair type, hair shape, hair length, density, softness level perfectly meets the purpose of the brush type. K002 fully blue-squirrel for extreme softness to achieve that all-natural sheer finish.  G512 with mixed blue-squirrel and goat for better firmness for specific face contouring.
• Made in Japan. I like.
• Travel friendly.  Length below 190mm.  Some MAC brushes are too long to fit into any pouch.

Cons

• Cost.  Not cheap.  (but I will urge you to still get it! haha)
• Maintenance.  Must dry with brush straight up, hair on-top and the shape must be in original state when drying.  Cannot lay brush horizontal in its ‘wet’ state as that will flatten one side and change the shape. Apparently, should avoid washing too often so that the ‘hair’ last longer.  Gosh, a thousand rules.
• Hair type suitable for powders only.  For liquid / creamy products, stick to synthetic-hair brushes.

Overall

I really count myself lucky to have chanced upon this Hakuhodo store in Shibuya.  As a new makeup junkie, I thought I was crazy to splurge on high-end brushes, but I can’t be happier with my purchase now that I have tried and tested them.  It is really awesome, muuuuuuch better than any face makeup brush I have tried so far (MAC, Innisfree, etc).

So, have I learnt why people need makeup brushes?  Yes.  Yes I definitely understand why now.

Best BB Cushions for Oily Skin – HERA (Long Stay) vs Laneige (Pore Control) vs Innisfree (Long Wear)

I’m always on the hunt for the best base makeup for oily / troubled skin, and it sure is a difficult mission.  Sometimes it seems impossible to find the dream balance of coverage, matte yet non drying finish, troubled-skin-friendly formulas, a shade that matches your skin tone and the list goes on.

Among power foundations, liquid foundations, BB / CC creams and BB cushions – my clear favourite today is the Korean-invented BB cushion.  I have tried the following 3 brands for over a year now, and would like to share my opinion on which I think is the best!  Hopefully this helps to make your hunt easier 🙂

HERA UV Mist Cushion Long Stay in C21  (full review here)
LANEIGE BB Cushion Pore Control in #21  (full review here)
INNISFREE Long Wear Cushion in #21

All 3 are ‘long stay’, ‘long wear’, or ‘summer friendly’ versions best-suited for oily skin and in the most universal #21 shade.   Note the difference to their more dewy and more moisturized finish counterparts.

So let the comparison begin!

THE PACKAGING

For the top of the case:  HERA – Glittery purple.  LANEIGE – Skyblue.  INNISFREE – White.

HERA and Laneige are both manufactured by the same parent company – Amore Pacific – so they have exactly the same size and width.

Innisfree is less ‘thick’ and smaller than the other two, and is lighter.

HERA is slightly dome-shaped for the top cover, where the other two are flat surfaces.  You can also see from this pic Innisfree is less ‘thick’ than the other two.

HERA and Laneige has shiny reflective sides, while Innisfree is just pure white throughout the entire case.

All 3 has a mirror inside, and a central area to house the BB cushion pot.

HERA and Laneige cases are interchangeable – meaning a Laneige BB cushion pot would fit perfectly into a HERA case (and vice versa).   But Innisfree is a stand-alone and no inter-changing for this one.

Winner on Packaging:

To me, HERA win hands down in this category with its beautifullllll shimmery purple casing.  Since all 3 packaging are almost the same, the deciding factor is really the colour.  Next up, I love Laneige’s Sky Blue top too.   Then, Innisfree.   Don’t get me wrong – Innisfree’s pure matte white casing is very sleek and clean-cut but looks a bit boring next to the other two XD

THE AIR PUFF

HERA’s airpuff is the firmest of all.   Followed by Innisfree.   Laneige is the softest of all.  Laneige and Innisfree has blue airpuffs, and HERA’s airpuff is purple.

I find Laneige’s airpuff is the best for its softness and flexibility – and hence could bend to the natural contours of the face for better application.   HERA and Innisfree are abit too firm to apply smoothly around the nose area where surface is not flat – but can still be done.   Just that when you try all 3, the difference is pretty clear.

Winner on Air Puff:

Laneige – for its softness and flexibility that can bend to any contour of the face.  For this fact, I find it easiest to clean too!

THE SHADE, TEXTURE AND FINISH

The colour you see from the BB cushion mesh.  This is not good representation of the product colour itself since the mesh can be of a different colour.  Nevertheless, you can already see that Innisfree shade is the brightest out of the 3.

Tada!  About 2-layer swatches of each product.

The shade:  Innisfree is clearly the brightest – almost the same as Laneige #13 shade (brighter than Laneige #21).  Note that all 3 swatches are #21 but different brands certainly have a different shade despite the same number.

Laneige has the best match to my skintone, and is also the middle shade out of the 3.  HERA is darkest out of the 3, and has a stronger thicker colour – a bit more yellow tone maybe?

The texture:  Oohh… HERA is clearly the most dewy / shiny – and hence my least favorite texture.   On the opposite, Innisfree has the most matte and dry-est finish.  Laneige seem to have cleverly balanced both matte and dewy (but not shiny).

Now I will blend and pat the product and wait for it to settle to observe the finish.

This is the blended finish look!

HERA’s dewi-ness is toned down by the blending – but still has the most moisturized/shiny finish out of the 3.   Innisfree really looks matte… almost dry eh?  Laneige, again seem to achieve the clever balance of matte yet non-dry finish.

Winner on Shade, Texture & Finish:

This is a very personal thing – some people prefer abit dewy, some people prefer all-matte.  And everyone has different skin tones.

For me, Laneige is the winner here.  Not only its shade offers the best match to my skin tone, its texture and finish is also my favourite.  High on matteness, but has slight moisture retained so it is not drying.  Innisfree felt too dry for me, and HERA is way too dewy for my liking.

THE LASTING POWER

I think you can guess this one.  HERA lasted the shortest on me because it is already rather dewy to start with… I definitely needed to pat off the oil and touch up by lunch time.  Laneige and Innisfree has similar lasting power on me, and looked fine for a good 7-8 hours!  Of course I will turn slightly oily by the end of the day, but touch-up is more like a nice-to-have rather than a must.   However, Innisfree had some oxidation around nose area while Laneige stood pretty strong on this one.

Winner on Lasting Power:

Laneige and Innisfree is a draw here.  Lasts all-day… what a saviour!  Innisfree had abit more oxidation than Laneige around the nose area, but also nothing too disastrous. 

THE COVERAGE

Trying to cover up a dark brown eyeliner with BB cushion *mad*

I applied about 1-2 layers, waited for it to settle, then applied another layer on top.   I think all offers pretty good coverage!  If I had to pick a loser, it would be Innisfree because of its brighter tone hence less likely to cover up marks or scars.

Winner on Coverage:

HERA and Laneige is a draw here.  All 3 offers good coverage, but because Innisfree has a brighter tone, and HERA/Laneige has better undertone, they do offer slightly better coverage.  But don’t pack on too many layers, they may turn cakey – especially HERA.

THE SCENT

Winner on Scent:

Laneige (1st).  Innisfree (2nd).  HERA (3rd).

HERA’s scent is a bit too strong for my liking – especially in the morning.  Abit like artificial fragrance maybe?

Laneige and Innisfree scents are very pleasant and lovely.  A bit like spring, a bit flowery.  Mild and just nice, not too strong.  So refreshing in the mornings and makes me smile 🙂

THE PRICE

Gmarket sells all 3 products online and ships worldwide.  Off to the prices and links!

HERA UV Mist Cushion Long Stay in C21 – KRW48,000 (About USD 45)

Laneige BB Cushion Pore Control in #21 – KRW37,000 (About USD 35)

Innisfree Long Wear Cushion in #21 – KRW19,000 (About USD 17)

Note!  HERA and Laneige comes with free 15g refill so there are TWO BB cushion pots.  Whereas Innisfree does not have any free refill – so don’t get mistaken that Innisfree is half-priced.

Winner on Price:

Innisfree (1st).  Laneige (2nd).  Hera (3rd).

Just ranking from cheapest to most expensive.  No frills.

SUMMARY!

Laneige wins on shade, texture, finish, coverage, lasting power and scent.  It also has the best airpuff.  (See full review here!)

HERA wins on packaging and coverage.  (See full review here!)

Innisfree wins on lasting power and price.

Pretty obvious – the overall winner is Laneige Pore Control BB cushion for me!

And yes, it is my daily holy grail base makeup.  I’m pretty skeptical I’ll find a better alternative to this, but always waiting and hoping for the next launch of a ‘long wear’ ‘summer-friendly’ BB cushion 🙂

Please share with me your finds for great base make-up for oily skin!

[Review] Estee Lauder – Micro Essence + Advanced Night Repair Serum (Travel Exclusive Set)

The good thing about travelling – other than enjoying the getaway of your life – is the chance to shop in airport’s duty free shops where you can get the best beauty deals not available in town!  I got this Estee Lauder travel-exclusive set for my mother from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport but couldn’t help stealing some from her to try it on my own haha XD

Includes 2 full-size of their best sellers – the new Micro Essence and the all-time award-winning Advanced Night Repair serum.  After all, it is never too early to start anti-aging skincare 🙂

Brand:    Estee Lauder
Product:  Travel Exclusive Set 
          150ml Micro Essence + 50ml Advanced Night Repair

Price:    JPY 17,000 for 1 set (~USD 145 at time of post)
          If bought separately, it will be 
          USD95 for Micro Essence
          USD92 for Advanced Night Repair Serum 
          (Savings of USD42!)
          
Type:     Toner / Lotion / Essence / Serum
Origin:   Made in USA
Website:  Micro Essence + Advanced Night Repair

THE PACKAGING

You won’t see this in usual department stores~ so keep a lookout when you travel next time 🙂

Ingredient list~

After you open the box, you’ll see 2 full size of the products – each in their own box again.  Just like how you would get if you buy them in usual department stores.

Side view of the boxes.  Their best sellers certainly have a long name.

First, it is Micro Essence – Skin Activating Treatment Lotion.

Then, it is Advanced Night Repair – Synchronized Recovery Complex II.

What a mouthful LOL. But I’m convinced they are just as powerful as their name.

THE PRODUCT

First, let’s talk about the Micro Essence.

“Benefits = Reveals skin’s youthful, angelic glow.  For all skin types.  

Ideal for: 

• Lack of energy, vitality
• Smooth, supple skin
• Age resisting
• Dryness, Dehydration

Formula Facts:

• Dermatologist tested
• Ophthalmologist tested
• Non-acnegenic, won’t clog pores
• Fragrance-free”

Many brands are launching their own power treatment lotion – stouting benefits similar to global bestseller SK-II’s Facial Treatment Essence.  I feel that Estee Lauder’s Micro Essence is no different and this looks to be a SK-II dupe.  I have used SK-II before and did not find it to be that impressive so I was keen to try Estee Lauder’s version given the loooooooong company history and excellent track record of Estee Lauder’s products 🙂

A beautiful classy triangular glass bottle with a tiny opening at the top.  Just 3~4 shakes will get you enough product for the whole face and neck.  No fuss and clean-cut.

The texture is really light and watery.  It was really hard to capture the left pic without it flowing off my hand lol.  I love the light texture as I have oily skin – can’t take rich creamy textures.

Glides like a breeze, and a few pats is all you need for product to be fully absorbed.

Could be hard to tell on pic, but the part which had the product felt soft, moisturized and supple.  So far so good!  It really feels like the product can penetrate deep into the skin layers and keep it hydrated.

It is fragrance-free so it had some kind of natural ‘bio-ferment’ scent as one of the key ingredients.  I won’t say it is bad, nothing unbearable 🙂

Next, let’s move on to the Advanced Night Repair – Synchronized Recovery Complex II.

Dropper style system = +10 points for me.  I just find it the most clean-cut and hygienic way of getting product out of a bottle 🙂

A bit more on the product itself:

“Benefits – fights all key signs of aging.  The #1 repair serum for all skin types.

Ideal for:

• Multiple signs of aging
• Visible age prevention
• Dryness, dehydration
• Lines and wrinkles
• Dullness, loss of radiance

Formula facts:

• Oil-free
• Dermatologist-tested
• Ophthalmologist-tested
• Non-acnegenic, won’t clog pores
• Fragrance-free”

As far as I know, this serum has existed for the longest time, and it certainly takes some real results for it to continue selling so well till now!

“It maximizes the power of skin’s natural nighttime renewal with the exclusive ChronoluxCB™ technology (with more than 25 patents and patents pending worldwide). It is great for every ethnicity and reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles, leaving skin feeling smoother, hydrated, and stronger, and looking younger, radiant, and more even toned.”

A deep yellowish liquid.  Serum-like texture, pretty light and runny.

Of course slightly thicker than Micro Essence (which is very watery), but still very easy to apply on face and fully absorbed in less than 30 secs.

This feels slightly richer, as if packed with super ingredients waiting to work on its skin-recovery powers. I believe that.

One thing I got to mention – the scent.  Hmm pretty strong and I don’t like it.  It is fragrance-free so whatever scent there is, it is natural from the power ingredients.  I can’t really describe, it’s not similar to any smell I know, but just not to my liking.. hmm.

MY VERDICT

Micro Essence

Pros

• Very light-weight and watery texture (extra love from oily skin like mine)
• Very penetrative and easily absorbed into skin
• Skin does feel soft, smooth and supple after application (ready for serum / other skincare)

Cons

• One-size 150ml slightly heavy and bulky for travel
• Sold at pricey USD95 if not for this travel exclusive set
• Gives my skin some redness after application (I have ultra sensitive skin) but so far no breakouts 🙂

Advanced Night Repair

Pros

• Super long track record and trusted product from cosmetics giant Estee Lauder
• Rather light texture, also easily absorbed into skin
• Skin feels very hydrated and protected after application, and you’ll wake up to soft skin with more even skin tone 🙂

Cons

• Strong scent (not to my liking)
• I would prefer something more watery for my oily skin in hot weather
• Another pricey product on its own USD92

Overall

No doubt, this travel exclusive set is a worthwhile investment.  I would think twice about buying individual products at its original price, but if coupled together at this travel set price, I’d say yes resoundingly!  Moreover, these 2 products work together well – Micro Essence first, then Advanced Night Repair serum.  I feel I don’t even apply anything else after this unless I feel my skin needs extra hydration.

However, because I don’t like the scent of Advanced Night Repair, I kind of stopped reaching out for it but I’m continuing to like the Micro Essence 🙂  Looking forward to clearer better skin hopefully~~~

I go crazy in Singapore’s Changi Airport duty-free beauty counters… I’m gonna travel in March, and can’t wait to hit those counters soon! *madness*

[Review] Too Faced – Chocolate Bar Eyeshadow Palette

I received this as a gift together with Naked Original Palette!  How beautiful right ^__^  One thing for sure is my obsession for eyeshadow palettes just grew stronger and it is literally dangerous to walk into Sephora now LOL XD  So many beautiful eyeshadow palettes there!  I’ve heard good things about this one, so let me do my own review~

Brand:    Too Faced
Product:  Chocolate Bar Eyeshadow Palette
Price:    SGD 69 (or USD 49)
Type:     Eyeshadow Palette
Size:     0.95g x 14 shadows + 2.2g x 2 shadows
Origin:   Made in USA
Website:  Too Faced website

THE PACKAGING

Comes in a pretty pinkish box.  Actual palette is housed in a Chocolate Bar design ~ yum!  I love the glossy chocolate plastic finish – simple and sleek.

Back view~

When you open the Chocolate Bar, the first thing that greets you is the smell of chocolate!  Think this is a first in makeup product history – so innovative 🙂  You also see a mirror of decent size – can fit your eye frame perfectly; and a piece of transparent film with the shade colours imprinted on it.

There is no space for brush. I don’t know about you but my fat fingers can’t do the intricate work of inner/outer corner detail smudging/blending so gotta remember to pack your brushes when you travel.

Taking off that film to show the shadows more clearly 🙂  Don’t understand why they can’t print the shade names below the shadow (like the Naked Palette)?  Make things much easier isn’t it hmm…

THE SHADOWS

“The eye shadows are pigmented with pure, antioxidant-rich cocoa powder and includes 16 matte and shimmer shades of natural browns, delicate pinks and luscious plums.”

Wow cocoa powder!  That explains the wonderful chocolate scent 🙂

There are 2 larger pans (2.2g each) for the highlight shades – White Chocolate and Champagne Truffle.   The rest of the 14 shades are equal size at 0.95g each.

10 shimmer shades. 6 matte shades.  (Wow 6! I’m a sucker for matte stuff)

SHIMMER shades

• Gilded Ganache – Khaki green with gold tone shimmer.  Love the variety shift from typical browns.
• Marzipan – Pink, rose gold shimmer shade (love this as a lid colour). Abit like Sin from Naked, but darker.
• Hazelnut – Coppery brown shimmer shade.  Like milk chocolate ~
• Creme Brulee – Gold~~ great as centre highlight of the lids
• Haute Chocolate – Dark brown with gold shimmer.  As fine as dark chocolate~
• Black Forest Truffle – Another dark brown with deep plum tone and multi-colour shimmers.
• Candied Violet – Cool purple shade with multi colour shimmer.  Another beautiful change from typical browns.
• Amaretto – Burgundy with gold shimmer.  (I looooooove burgundy shadows)
• Cherry Cordial – Plum and brown.  Looks really plumy but swatch appears more brown.
• Champagne Truffle – Beigy light pink highlight shimmer.  Universal global-must requirement.

MATTE shades

• White Chocolate – Matte white.  Brightens eyes with just a swipe under eyes or brow bone.
• Salted Caramel – Deep pink, light coral matte.  Special isn’t it?
• Milk Chocolate – Middle brown shade.  Kinda in between Naked & Buck in the Naked Palette.  Universal transition shade.
• Semi-Sweet – Deeper brown than Milk Chocolate, but lighter than Triple Fudge.
• Triple Fudge – Deep dark brown.  Yum.
• Strawberry Bon Bon – Light and cool bright pink shade.  Think would be a great brightener or even sweet blush.

There are enough matte shades to create many looks without even touching the shimmer shades, yea?  Gotta try an all-matte look one day!

SWATCHES

LEFT SECTION (3 columns)

The matte shadows can be a little powdery (which means greater tendency for fallouts) and need a couple layers to show the colour more clearly.  Marzipan, Creme Brulee and Haute Chocolate has beeeauutiful shimmer, but the other shimmer shades seem to have lower concentration of shimmer in it.  Not a bad thing I guess lol, but you can see a difference.

RIGHT SECTION (3 columns)

Love the colour of Milk Chocolate and Black Forest Truffle.  Wish Amaretto and Cherry Cordial could have more reddish / burgundy tone – they look more brown when swatched.  Champagne Truffle is just like Virgin in Naked Palette – beautiful beautiful highlight shade.

MY VERDICT

Pros

• Superb variety and versatility. Can’t even count how many looks can be created with just one palette.
• High pigmentation on most shades
• Great value for money.  16 shadows, girls!
• 6 matte shades!  Love the variety on matte shades alone.
• Compact and sleek packaging
• Anti-oxidant cocoa powder based with chocolate smell.  Yum.

Cons

• Some powdery / less pigmented shades.  Plumy shades don’t look as plum as it appears.
• Some fallouts when applying.
• No space for brush.  Gotta pack separately.
• Flimsy transparent film to know the shade colours

Overall

I feel pros outweigh the cons, and it is no doubt a great palette to have.  If you love brown, warm shades only – Naked Original Palette would be a better pick for you.  If you like some fun to play around with more matte shades or Khaki Green or Violet, then Chocolate Bar will satisfy your needs. 🙂

Sample look with Marzipan all over lid.  Semi-Sweet and Cherry Cordial in the crease and outer corners. Creme Brulee in the centre of lids. Triple fudge to smudge my MAC Pearlglide Intense Eyeliner in #LordItUp (see review here).  Champagne Truffle in inner corners of eye.

And of course wonderful ‘Vintage’ camera filter on the LINE camera app lolxxx.

[Review] HERA – UV Mist Cushion Long Stay in C21 Cool Vanilla Cover

I’m more or less sold for Laneige Pore Control BB cushion (see review here), but as a beauty junkie, I can’t resist from trying another brand after raving reviews about HERA UV Mist Cushion – especially when they launched a Long Stay version for oily skin or summer weather! *eyes widen* *money flies away*

HERA is a higher-end, more luxurious brand stouting models like Shin Min Ah and most recently national Korean goddess, Jun Ji Hyun.  Enough said!  Maybe it is human psychology but I find myself succumbing to ads or branding gimmicks, somewhat believing a more expensive product usually gives better result.  I know it is not always true but… *weak heart*

Brand:    HERA
Product:  UV Mist Cushion Long Stay
Shade:    C21 Cool Vanilla Cover
Price:    KRW 45,000 (about USD 45)
Type:     BB Cushion / Foundation
Size:     15g x 2  (one refill included)
Origin:   Made in Korea
Website:  Hera website (in Korean)

THE PACKAGING

VERY classy reflective light purple box 🙂

Oh-so-gorgeous light-purple case with a reflective circumference.   Love~~~~~~

Comes with sturdy packaging with mirror.  As HERA and Laneige belong to the same parent company – Amore Pacific – all their cases are the same size so you can put a Laneige cushion in a Hera case or vice versa!!  This is a superb plus point for me cuz I really love this luxurious case and will continue to use it even if I don’t repurchase the HERA cushion.

The back of the air puff is purple too!  The pic looks slightly blue but it is a gorgeous purple, matching perfect with its luxurious case.

Safety seal ~ Don’t understand the Korean words but not important haha.

THE PRODUCT

Hooray to English translations for the product details insert!  Finally someone in the manufacturing team knows there are tons of global buyers who does not understand Korean 🙂

Basically a super duper multifunctional foundation.

Versatile 5-in-one
Mist + Foundation + Sun Block + Brightening + Cooling effect

5 secrets of UV Mist Cushion
– Natural makeup like professional makeup artist
– Mineral Clay Water with fine water particle moisturizes skin as if spraying on a mist
– Powerful sun screen (SPF50+/PA+++)
– Brightening effect
– Lowers skin’s temperature

Mineral Clay Water
Fine sea water clay particles are melted in Mineral Clay Water.  It controls osmotic pressure of skin and moisturizes skin. And reduce dead skin cells, impurities and sebum and maintain skin clean and moist. Mineral Clay Water lowers skin’s temperature and keep it cool and fresh.

Magic makeup
Everytime pressing the cushion, stabilized emulsified formula passes through the dense cells of the cushion. It covers skin thinly and cleanly and illuminates the skin.

Antioxidant effect & damage prevention
Powerful sun screen level (SPF50+/PA+++) protects skin from UV rays. Extracts from 4 kinds of berreis with antioxidant effect act as a shield.

THE SHADE

There are a few versions of HERA UV Mist Cushion and the Long Stay one has 2 shades only.

• No. C21 Cool Vanilla Cover  (the one in review now)
• No. C23 Cool Beige Cover

There is also other versions like the Ultra Moisture one which gives you super moisturized and dewy finish – but that’s a no no for me.  Oily skin in hot summer weather all-year-round AND dewy foundation just can’t marry unfortunately.

Super fine and intricate cushion mesh just like others I’ve seen.

Oooh.. the air puff is firmer than the Laneige one.  Seems to capture product more easily, but the firmer texture could be slightly harder to apply in the natural curves of the face.

The scent is pretty strong.  Still a pleasant scent but I find it abit strong when I put it in the mornings.  Prefer Laneige scent anytime~

Can you see the superb coverage there?  But the layer of foundation is kind of obvious yea?  It gives me the impression of “I-am-wearing-foundation” look.  Personally I prefer a more natural finish like second skin but this one may turn abit cakey if you slap on multiple layers.

I’ve seen many reviews and they all mention a ‘very matte’ finish – but I beg to differ.  It is not as matte as Laneige Pore Control BB Cushion, and in fact, I see some dewiness and moisturizing glow in it (see above when I mention dewy + oily skin is a no no).

MY VERDICT

Pros

• Superb coverage
• Gorgeous gorgeous case and packaging
• Balanced finish of dewy + matte – suitable during winter or dry countries (but not favored in hot-summer Singapore)
• C21 is truly a natural beige (other brands #21 is a tad brighter and may not suit most skin tones)
• Lasting power…a good 3-5 hours?  Less if it is really hot and humid weather.

Cons

• Slightly thick finish with “I-am-wearing-foundation” look.  Could turn cakey.
• I don’t like the slightest bit of dewy and this one has that so.. this is a con for me (but maybe a plus for others).
• Scent on the stronger side but still pleasant
• Only 2 shades for the Long Stay version.
• More pricey than other brands offering the same function

Overall

I’ll be honest – I don’t like this as much as Laneige Pore Control BB cushion.  Proven more expensive product does not always mean better!  *slap self* I could wear it during winters in Japan, but in Singapore no….  It is already the Long Stay version but I am still fussy it is not as matte and long-stay!

If you have slightly dry skin, this could be best pick for you as it does give you some moisturizing dewiness.  For me…MATTE is the way.

Can you see abit of the dewy finish?  I don’t like dewy LOL XD  It means makeup sliding off my face a couple of hours later -_-

Have you tried any great MATTE BB cushions besides Laneige Pore Control?  Please let me know! 🙂

[Review] MAC – Pearlglide Intense Eyeliner in #LordItUp #Undercurrent #DesignerPurple & #PetrolBlue

Once upon a time, I went crazy over MAC Pearlglide Intense Eyeliners and bought four in one go.  Considering the price, it’s quite crazy just for 4 ‘pencils’.  Thinking back, I surely wasn’t rational but then which girl is when looking at pretty things? 🙂

Brand:    MAC
Product:  PearlGlide Intense Eyeliner
Shade:    Lord It Up
          Undercurrent
          Designer Purple 
          Petrol Blue
Price:    USD 16
Type:     Eyeliner
Size:     1.2g
Origin:   Made in USA
Website:  MAC website

THE PACKAGING

Well, nothing special about eyeliner pencils packaging yea?  Just a pencil LOL XD I like that the shade colour is clear on the end of the pencil.  Easy to grab the colour you want when you put them together with 50 other eyeliners haha…

Freshly sharpened tip 🙂  Can you see how rich the colour is?

I recommend getting the MAC sharpener even though it is a tad more expensive than typical sharpeners.  I used other sharpeners and they cause the liner lead to break!  I ended up losing quite alot of product by having to re-sharpen. Ouch!!

THE PRODUCT

“An eye pencil that provides rich, luxurious colour with a touch of shimmer and sparkle. Soft, smooth, creamy formula glides on for a perfectly intense line, yet its soft texture allows you to blend. Long-wearing. Smudge-proof.”

Rich, luxurious colour — oh yes, very rich and creamy deep colours 🙂

Shimmer and sparkle –– yes again!  I can’t get enough of how fine and pretty the shimmers are!

Long-wearing and smudge-proof — well I like to smudge this abit to create smoky look but after it dries, yes it lasts a pretty long while 🙂  I can’t draw a thin line with this pencil so I prefer to smudge it for more blended look ~

I do notice fallouts when i use it and also maybe it’s very soft and creamy, a little product sometimes get caught in the eyelashes.. when that happens and I blink, I may get panda eyes by the product smearing my under-eye area 😦  It could be because of my eye shape though 😦  Do you guys get this problem, or is it just me?

THE SHADES

Petrol Blue – I love this blue.  It’s just perfect – not too dark not too light and the shimmer is the right amount and right shade too!  Perfect to create deep blue sexy eyes for that special night.

Lord It Up – Brown is most wearable and you can even use it for daily look.  Pretty high shimmer for a brown.  I find myself grabbing this colour most cuz’ of its wearability although the colour is kind of boring haha.

Undercurrent – My favourite!  I find the other 3 colours would have many cheaper good dupes (like Maybelline, Etude House) but this one is just too pretty I can’t find a dupe yet!  The green is so special and the shimmer is intense!  This really brightens up your eye look and have people’s attention on it right away!  Can’t stare enough at the colour whenever I have this on hehe.

Designer Purple – I’d say this is a typical purple shimmer eyeliner.  Among the four, shimmer concentration seem to be least for this one or just less noticeable to the eye.  But overall still a beautiful purple of course.

Let me try it on the eyes…..

Two colours on each eye. I think all are pretty… but Undercurrent! Love love love.

MY VERDICT

Pros

• Rich, intense colour and pigmentation
• Super creamy and soft formula.  Very easy to glide on eyes.
• Very beautiful shades and very fine shimmer.  (Thumbs up for Undercurrent!)

Cons

• Some fallouts (don’t know whether it is my lousy skills or the product..)
• Needs sharpening (yes I am a very lazy girl haha)
• Can’t draw a thin thin line.  Even with sharpening line cant get as thin as liquid liner style so I always smudge this out for more smoky blended look.
• Pricey.  Many cheaper dupes out there that more or less have a similar colour or result (except Undercurrent haha).

Overall

I am tempted to try the Black Line shade (Black with khaki green tone and shimmers) of this range, but other than that, I don’t think I will repurchase my current shades – except UnderCurrent!

I am quite happy with Etude House play 101 pencils and they come at fraction of the price and no need sharpening! Hahaha.  Have yet to try other dupes yet~

But I’m still thankful to have found this Pearlglide Eyeliners as they kind of started the eyeliner craze in me XD

Do you know of other great pearl shimmery eyeliners out there? 🙂

[Review] innisfree – Orchid Enriched Cream + Orchid Intense Cream + Orchid Hand Cream (15th anniversary limited set)

I am loving innisfree products – both skincare and makeup 🙂  Ever since I had a good experience with their Green Tea line (see Green Tea Seed Cream review here), I couldn’t wait to try their anti-aging Orchid line and there is no better time than now.  Saw this 15th anniversary set (limited edition) and just had to buy it instantly!

Brand:    innisfree
Product:  15th anniversary set (limited edition)
          Orchid Enriched Cream 50ml
          Orchid Intense Cream 20ml
          Orchid Hand Cream 35ml
Price:    SGD43 (or USD29)
Type:     Moisturizer, Hand Cream
Origin:   Made in Korea
Website:  innisfree 15th anniversary page

THE PACKAGING

Comes in a 15th anniversary special box 🙂  This is sold at the price of 1 full-size Orchid Enriched Cream, so consider the mini Intense Cream and full-size Hand Cream to be bonus gifts ^^

Love the purple. So gorgeous.

Their usual 50ml plastic tub design for innisfree moisturizers.

Orchid Intense Cream is also sold at full-size 50ml but this limited set comes with 20ml mini tub.  Not bad at all considering almost half of the original product, and I always find sample or mini packaging so cute!

THE PRODUCT

From the Orchid Line brochure:

“Jeju Orchid has the amazing vitality to blossom in severe winter condition and through years of research and development, it is formulated into Orchid Elixir.  An excellent antioxidant, the Orchid Elixir works together with functional skin-activating ingredients to rejuvenate tired, aging skin and to restore its natural self-defense power.  This results in healthy skin with a radiant glow.”

About Orchid Elixir:

“According to a chapter on Prescribing Natural Medicines in the Eastern medical encyclopedia titled Donguibogam in Korean, the orchid moisturizes the skin and clears blockage stacked up inside the body over time.  Among 60 kinds of orchid native to Jeju, AmorePacific R&D Centre has chosen Jeju Cold Growing Orchid due to its great antioxidant effects.  The previous Orchid Elixir is then obtained through a hot-water extraction process”.

Wow, Jeju Cold Growing Orchid.  I saw the TV commercial on this line and they featured this plant surviving in harsh winter snows.  Kudos to AmorePacific R&D Centre, I have no doubts on their research capabilities XD

Enriched Cream = Total anti-aging care. Moist cream texture. For normal to dry skin.

Intense Cream = Intensive aging care. Nutrient rich cream texture.  For very dry skin.

You can see the Enriched Cream is more of a gel-like texture similar to Green Tea Seed Cream; and the Intense Cream is a white richer cream which is signature texture for drier skin.  Both are easily blendable and quickly absorbed into the skin.

Comparing Orchid Enriched Cream (anti aging) vs Green Tea Seed Cream (deep moisturizing), the Orchid one is slightly richer and thicker which I expected because typical anti-aging lines are richer in texture than pure moisturizing ones.

And oh, the scent!  Love love love.  There is just something so refreshing about innisfree cream scents.   I typically don’t like fragrance as an ingredient but am not so concerned as there is the innisfree 5-free system!  Free of parabens, artificial coloring, mineral oil, animal raw material, and ethanol.

THE HAND CREAM

I love the purple tube and the fact it has SPF 15 PA+.  Very pleasant scent as expected.  But nothing over-the-top-amazing for me as I have tried more moisturizing hand creams from Loccitane or Crabtree & Evelyn.  So this will probably be more like a normal hand cream that I use as back-up.

MY VERDICT

Pros

• Skin feels hydrated and plumped upon application
• No sticky feel
• Enriched cream very moisturizing (have to try longer to judge its anti-aging properties)
• Intense cream has helped to reduce appearance of fine lines and rich texture good for dry skin (I almost want to use it as an eye cream XD)
• Refreshing and soothing scent
• 5 free system (free of parabens, artificial coloring, mineral oil, animal raw material, and ethanol)
• Cheap! Includes 2 bonus products if you get the 15th anniversary limited set 🙂

Cons

• Although no sticky feel, can still feel a layer of product on skin – a bit like a sleeping pack? (a plus for some, and not for some)

And I love getting cute little freebies when I buy something, don’t you? ^^

[Review] and [Comparison] – YSL Rouge Pur Couture in #52 Rosy Coral vs #51 Corail Urbain

I think YSL lipsticks need no introduction, right?  I actually got to know how famous they were through a Korean drama called “My Love From Another Star” starring Jun Ji Hyun and Kim Soo Hyun.  In short, it is a love story between a 400-year-old alien (but very handsome) guy and a snobbish but beautiful actress.  Sounds crazy I know, but go watch the first few episodes and see why the entire world is going crazy over Korean national goddess Jun Ji Hyun’s #52 Rosy Coral lips!

I did not own any YSL lipsticks before the drama but when I was interested, I found out the shade #52 Rosy Coral is sold out worldwide!  It’s been over a year since the drama ended, and I tell you, even now it is still not easy to lay your hands on this shade.  Madness!  That is how I settled on #51 Corail Urbain which was a similar shade while waiting for stock of #52…. I sure waited long!

Brand:    Yves Saint Lauren (YSL)
Product:  Rouge Pur Couture Lipstick
Shade:    52 Rosy Coral and 51 Corail Urbain 
Price:    USD 35
Type:     Lipstick
Size:     20g
Origin:   Made in France
Website:  YSL website

THE PACKAGING

A classy reflective gold square casing.  Can serve somewhat as a mirror 🙂

Beautiful YSL carving on the lipstick itself.  What a gorgeous coral shade! So bright, almost neon isn’t it?

The #51 shade has a dark red YSL wording on the casing – instead of black on #52.  Maybe because #51 was a 2013 autumn limited shade? But I believe it has become their normal range already so both #51 and #52 is not considered limited edition.

 

THE PRODUCT

According to YSL:

“A new-generation lipstick inspired by Monsieur Saint Laurent’s iconic color palette—red, fuchsia and orange—in a collection of captivating couture shades that offer each complexion a customized look. Lips are saturated with intense, stay-true color, thanks to the Coloreveal Technology while natural extracts provide comforting moisture that lasts all day. Provides medium to full coverage with a radiant, satin finish.”

I heart matte lipsticks over glossy ones, so Rouge Pur Couture is one of my favourites!  I won’t say the texture is “moisturizing” as it does dry up to form a matte finish with some radiance – although that “radiance” is also gone after an hour or so.  It will still leave a stain on your lips after fading, and by far, this is one of the most long-lasting lipsticks I have tried so can’t complain XD

SWATCHES

Ooooh… now you can see the difference in shade. #52 is much deeper brighter coral shade, and #51 is more on the peachy pink light coral shade.  I love both!

Both are buildable in intensity to be opaque, and you can see that multiple layers of #52 can turn into a very intense coral shade – suitable for a special night or occasion 🙂

On the lips!  #51 is a nice peachy coral suitable for daily wear, while #52 is more intense as it has more rose red pigment.

Personally #52 is too “bright” for me as a daily wear – I think if I walk into office with those lips, my colleagues will ask “did something happen to you?” with shocked expressions on their face LOLxxx.  But #51 is perfect!  Brightens up the complexion and provides sweet colour to the face 🙂

MY VERDICT

Pros

• High high pigmentation
• Smooth texture, glidable on lips
• Semi-matte finish with slight glow/sheen  (I like matte stuff)
• Considered long lasting of about 4~5 hours (the high pigmentation will leave a tint on your lips even after it fades out – especially #52)

Cons

• Glides on easy but can feel abit dry afterwards
• Some accentuation on lip lines (applying lip balm or primer before helps)
• May need lip brush to apply #52 as prone to bleeding if not careful (#51 could be fine without lip brush unless you want it more defined)

Overall

Both lipsticks belong to the same range so they are similar in texture and finish.  Pigmentation wise, #52 is clearly a stronger, more intense colour while #51 belongs to a more peachy light coral family.  I adore both these lippies very much 🙂

Both colours are very wearable on any day, and can be buildable to its desired intensity.  I like to wear #51 on my lips overall, then dab #52 in the inner corners to create gradient lips!  Which do you like better? ^^

[Review] Shiseido – SpotsCover Foundation (Concealer) in S100

Japan’s all-time award-winning #1 concealer, everyone! I lived in Japan for 3 years and as far as I know, this concealer has topped the ranking every year! Concealer is the most important makeup item in my routine – if I was made to choose only one item to use, it will 100% be concealer!

I have tried a zillion concealers… and finally I found my holy grail concealer – the Shiseido SpotsCover Foundation.  I don’t know why it is called “foundation” as it functions more like a concealer.  Here goes!

Brand:    Shiseido
Product:  SpotsCover Foundation (Concealer)
Shade:    S100 
Price:    JPY 1296
Type:     Concealer
Size:     20g
Origin:   Made in Japan
Website:  Shiseido website (sorry only in Japanese)

THE PACKAGING

Small little clean-cut tub, containing 20g of product.

Descriptions all in Japanese~ but mainly just imprinting the product name (Shiseido SpotsCover Foundation) and the shade number (S100).

THE PRODUCT

Here are 2 tubs side by side – brand new one on the left, and used one on the right.  I have used the right tub daily religiously for over a year now and still alot of product left!  Seriously good value for money.

You can see the texture is pretty thick and creamy – translating to excellent coverage 🙂

THE SHADES

So far there are 6 shades according to Shiseido website.  The most universal shade is S100 and it fits my skintone (MAC NC/NW20) perfectly.  Not too bright, not too dark.  Picking a concealer shade that matches your skin tone can be so difficult.  Putting a shade too bright or dark will only accentuate your imperfections!

SWATCHES

Excellent coverage!  Can cover even dark brown gel liner completely.

Finish is semi-matte and perfect for blemishes, scars and acne on the face.  I find it could be a bit too “thick” for undereye, but it also depends on application method and amount used.  Pony’s Beauty Diary (on youtube) has used this many times as undereye using a small brush with light hand and it looks perfect 🙂

I applied a thin layer using fingers and it can mask all redness or acne scars completely.  What a saviour!

For my daily routine, I use Hakuhodo’s B539 concealer brush and finish will be absolutely flawless.  I had severe cystic acne (getting better now), but I get questions from friends on what I use to cover the acne because I did such a good job XD This is the trick!

MY VERDICT

Pros

• Excellent coverage (the very purpose of concealer)
• Thick and creamy texture best for facial acne, blemishes, scars
• Semi-matte finish
• Super long-lasting (I use it under my BB cushion)
• 20g can be used for a long long time (a little goes a long way)
• Super cheap (JPY 1296 is like USD10 bucks)

Cons

• Not readily available.  I bought it in Japan and don’t see it around in other countries.
• Could be a bit too thick/dry for undereye
• Could turn cakey if too many layers applied (only 1 layer is required)

Overall

This is my holy grail concealer!  It took me a while to find this gem and now I wouldn’t know what to do without it!  Not sure if you’ll be able to get this in other countries, but I always stock up when I go Japan… hope they release globally soon!

[Review] Laneige – BB Cushion (Pore Control) in No. 21 Natural Beige

Hi ladies! Today, I will share a product which in my opinion is THE greatest revolutionary invention in the history of foundation makeup ever.  See the pretty ambassador in the pic above?  Her name is Song Hae Kyo and she is the most gorgeous Korean actress ever (my favourite!). I am not the type to follow latest hypes so I was reallyyyy late in trying a BB Cushion despite all the raves going on in the Asian market and despite Song Hae Kyo… what was I thinking… –__–

Now that I have joined the brighter side, please let me introduce you to this awesome product!

Brand:    Laneige
Product:  BB Cushion (Pore Control) SPF 50+ PA+++
Shade:    No. 21 Natural Beige
Price:    SGD59 
Type:     BB Cushion / Foundation / Makeup base
Size:     15g x 2  (comes with 1 extra refill)
Origin:   Made in Korea
Website:  Laneige website

By now, I think there are already 3 versions of the Laneige BB cushion — (1) Whitening, the first to launch with extra whitening and more ‘moisturized’ final look; (2) Pore Control, more matte finish and more suited for oily/combination skin; and lastly (3) Anti-Aging, the newest addition to the range.

I will be reviewing the Pore Control version – best suited for oily skin and/or in hot/humid weather like Singapore.  It was launched during summer in Korea and went viral.

THE PACKAGING

The Pore Control version has a skyblue surface top (vs a white top for the Whitening version, and a Greyish Silver top for the Anti-Aging version).  I love the skyblue colour!

The case is really sleek and clean cut, with metallic mirror-like circumference. Really sturdy and durable and easy to maintain.

When you open it, you’ll see a mirror and the puff on top of the product.

Taking away the puff and trying to open the product cover, you’ll see another safety seal for a brand new BB cushion.  I like the extra care taken to prevent drying of the product 🙂

THE PRODUCT

Now onto the actual BB cushion product.  I’ll let the brochure do some talking first.

Can you count 800,000 pores…?  I don’t know how they came to that number, but one thing for sure is yes, they are very very fine pores on the BB cushion ‘mesh’ mechanism which lets the product seep through when you press that puff into it.

Like this, tada! Savour this moment when it looks the prettiest and clearest in its brand-new state!

THE AIR CUSHION PUFF

In my opinion, the Air Cushion Puff is the key revolution in this product.  It is the most amazing application tool for a foundation/BB cream/the like.

“The Air-cell dual texture is processed with a special technology that holds nine times more moisture than its weight for supple and glossy skin.  It is slightly thinner than synthetic rubber puff, and has a soft centre that effectively absorbs BB and spreads it evenly on the skin.  Firm yet supple in texture, it conceals pores perfectly and gives the face a radiant and natural finish.”

I truly agree with every word above having used it for a year or so now!  I have tried other BB cushions and the Laneige air cushion has the best balance of firmness to sufficiently capture the product, and softness to apply on your skin flawlessly.

THE SHADES

These are the shades offered in Singapore – I hear it may differ by country but #21 Natural Beige is their global bestseller and most commonly used for Asian skin.

See, the coverage is quite awesome too! Definitely helps in attaining an even skin tone.

Now on the face.  Left side (very obviously) is my bare face revealing all the redness, acne and a thousand other sad problems….. and Right side is with Laneige BB cushion only, no concealer or other makeup base.

I LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!  The coverage is AWESOME, right??? Redness almost completely covered.  Also, it may be hard to see on pic but the finish is another mind-blower.  It’s the best balance of matte and glowy one can get.   I personally prefer matte finish but sometimes that can accentuate dryness, especially with combination skin where there are patches of dry parts among the oily T-zone.

MY VERDICT

Pros

• Semi-matte finish with light glow (just like flawless skin!)
• High coverage, no need concealer unless very red
• Lightweight texture makes it hard to get cakey.  One layer is sufficient to achieve dream skin, or maybe two at most.
• LONG staying power >7 hours for me.  I pat with dry tissue at times when my face becomes an oil tank.  Oxidation problems not particularly noticeable.
• Very easy application using air cushion puff. Use light hand for that dreamy flawless skin you see on magazines.
• Shade #21 is flattering for most Asian skintones, and I am lucky that it matches mine very well 🙂
• SPF 50+ PA+++  (what not to like about this)
• Cooling effect upon application  (a plus during hot weather times)
• Lovely flowery scent (the best among all the cushions I have tried)
• Value for money as 2 refills can last a good 6 months or more

Cons

• Not many shades available.  Some people complain shades are too ‘bright’, even #23 the darker one.
• The air cushion puff looks ‘dirty’ after use and needs some maintenance.  I wash it at least once a week but rubbing gently onto a mild soap and all the gunk gets washed out pretty easily.
• For very dry skin, the Whitening version might work better for a more ‘moisturized’ effect.

Overall

If you have not tried this product yet, you gotta put down everything and just buy one to try NOW…  that’s how confident I am that you’ll like the result.  You can choose either the Pore Control (like me if you have oilier skin), or the Whitening one (if you have dry skin), or the Anti-Aging one (which I am very keen to try next).

My skin is farrrr from flawless but thanks to Laneige BB cushion it definitely looks quite flawless! (^_^)