Skincare stash decrease project – update 8

Here is my latest update about my skincare stash decrease project for 2020. Unlike my last post that gave an overview for 2 months, this post will not contain lots of products.

I’m From Rice Toner – At the beginning, I loved this toner since it was really soothing and brightening at the same time. It was also making my skin very supple. However, the closer I was getting to the bottom of the bottle, more my enthusiasm was diminishing. I still think this is nice toner, but I do not think it is great. I do not have any important complaints since it delivers nicely, it is not irritating, it absorbs well, it doesn’t leave any residue. It is just that I’m not that much into this toner anymore. Maybe I will purchase it in the future.

Pyunkang Yul Mist toner – this is one of my 2 favourite watery toners. It is very hydrating, it provides nice refreshment to the skin. It is very runny and therefore it slips easily between the fingers so you need to be very careful if you do not want to spill the product. It is absorbed perfectly and nicely and leaves no residue, but only a happy skin. I really like it and sometimes I put few layers of it. I cannot remember how many bottles I emptied so far. I will repurchase it.

Alpha-H Vitamin B with copper peptides – I bought this serum mostly because it contains vitamin B in its inci list. I must admit that I bought it on a whim and it was only later that I realised that it also contaied copper peptides. Due to that, it was rather challenging to incorporate it into my routine, since copper-peptides do not work well together with some ingredients I usually put in my night routine (acids, retinoids). Because of that, I was alternating it with other niacinamide serum. When I started to use this serum, I turned it into my prime suspect for the breakouts I had on my cheeks in August, so I put it aside for some time. I never break out, I didn’t even have skin troubles during puberty. However, I realised that it was just an unfortunate coincidence with my PMS which makes me break out maybe once in 6 or 7 months. This serum has a jelly texture and is more on a thicker side. This texture was something that I didn’t like since I prefer watery niacinamide serums. On top of that, this serum is really sticky and it takes a while before it is absorbed in the skin. Like all copper-peptides serum, it has a distinctive blue colour and metallic scent that is not unpleasant; I simply do not like it. I will not repurchase this serum.

Tonymoly Bio-ex Cell peptide serum – I only had this serum in pouches and not in regular packaging, so it was dragging around my stash for quite a while and I frankly forgot about it. I really enjoy in this ampoule every time I used it, since it makes my skin velvety and firm (at least it feels firmer upon application). It has a gel texture and it is not too thick, glides nicely on the skin, sinks in elegantly and doesn’t leave any sticky or tacky residue. I quite like it. However, I will probably not repurchase in this form of pouches. I would think about full size product.

Herbivore bakuchiol – When making my skincare stash inventory in February, I “classified” this product as an oil, since all products in Herbivore set I had were oils. Actually this is serum and it is very nice one. This is not the first bakuchiol product I have tried so far. I tested also The Inkey List bakuchiol which is a lotion/moisturizer type of product. You probably know that bakuchiol is marketed as a botanical retinol, an extract that mimics the effects of retinol. I’m not sure I would go so far when it comes to claims, but my skin was really smooth and toned after using this serum. It is not irritating, it is not sticky, it is really nice serum. I wish only I had bigger bottle . I would repurchase for sure, but I think it is discontinued.

Herbivore Lapis – this is another oil from Herbivore set I purchased a long time ago. I read some reviews that Herbivore’s products tend to go bad rather quickly due to the fact that do not contain preservatives. I didn’t have this issues with my Herbivore oils. It is thicker than Herbivore’s bakuchiol, but still very pleasant to use since it is absorbed nicely and it doesn’t leave any oily or greasy residue. It layers nicely overtop of any serums that I use. Although it is an oil, it is pretty hydrating, which can be quite surprising feature for an oil. Just like any other oil, I use it in my night routine and I wake up in the morning with a glowy and healthy looking skin. However, it is always a question whether this oil is worth a price since this glow and healthy look can also be achieved with oils that are far less expensive than this one.

Paula’s Choice Resist Skin Restoring moisturiser SPF50 trial – When I first applied this sunscreen, it crossed my mind that I might have found my HG western sunscreen. As it is often the case, the first impressions can be deceiving. I must say that I liked almost everything about this sunscreen. It has a texture of a lotion, glides nicely on the skin, is blended easily and has almost no cast. Once absorbed it leaves the skin smooth with a velvety finish. And than we come to one thing, actually the only thing that I didn’t like and it is the fact that it pills of the skin. I tried to apply it on different routines, I played with the quantity of sunscreen I applied and to my big disappointment, the result was always the same: it pilled off in small white bits. I will not repurchase it!

Anessa Perfect UV sunscreen spf50 PA++++ 20ml – This sunscreen is one of my biggest discoveries of 2020. It is the best sunscreen I have tried so far. It has chemical filters and this is 2020 edition that I purchased. It has beautiful texture, glides nicely on the skin, it is not drying or greasy, it is just perfect! The skin is velvety once it is absorbed. It has a minimal cast that disappears quickly. I tried it on the beach and it provides sufficient protection. And of course, it works excellent with my makeup (I have tried it under Missha Perfect cover bb cream. Nars Pure radiant tinted moisturizer and Estee Lauder Futurist hydro)- I will definitely repurchase.

Innisfree Capsule recipe pack – This was one-shot mask that hydrates and refreshes the skin. The effect is pretty much the same as what I get from regular aloe gel. I buy those masks from time to time on Iherb as shipping saver, otherwise I do not honestly think that I would repurchase.

So in October, I emptied: 2 toners / 2 acid & active treatments / 2 sunscreens / 2 oils / 1 mask.

October total:  9 empties + 2 sheet masks

Yearly total: 77 empties + 43 sheet masks

And once again, I bought some new products and broke my nobuy, but this time is quite a big increase. Here is what I purchased / received during October: Oskia Super C-Smart Nutrient capsules, Garden of Wisdom C-Deep Vitamin C, Garden of Wisdom Alpha arbutin 2% and Kojic acid 1%, Secret Key Aloe toner, Melano CC serum, Blithe Tundra chaga mini 10ml, Versed Doctor’s Instant resurfacing mask, Versed The Fix emergency eye mask, Phyto Niacin whitening essence, Morningstar Minerals Derma boost rejuvenating spray mist

So, at the end of October 2020, this is current status of my skincare stash:

  • 12 cleansers
  • 14 toners and mists
  • 23 acid & active treatments
  • 14 essences
  • 9 serums / ampoules
  • 3 emulsions
  • 20 moisturizers and sunscreens
  • 5 sleeping packs
  • 8 facial oils
  • 18 masks
  • 4 eye creams and eye masks
  • 85 sheet masks

Till next time stay healthy and beautiful!

Products I opened lately

And again, if you are following my posts, you might have noticed that I didn’t post anything about the products I opened and introduced to my routine lately. So, here is an overview of what I have opened in August, September and October. Some of those products were already mentioned in my 2-months overview post for August and September about my skincare stash decrease project for 2020.

Pixi & Caroline Hirons double cleanse – This is love at first use, especially for the balm part of the cleanser. It is really effective, removes makeup without lot of fuss, but the way it is washed off is simply amazing. It goes so easily without leaving any trace. I’m amazed!

Tonymoly Green tea chok chok no wash cleansing water – I do not use micellar waters or similar products, so basically I didn’t buy this product. I got it in a Tonymoly kit from Jolse. I use it very rarely, in my morning routine if I feel that my skin need some cleansing. It is nice product, not drying. Even though it is no wash cleansing water, I still wash it off anyway.

DHC Deep cleansing oil – I got this oil as an gift, although I’m pretty sure I would buy it myself also. It is on a thicker side for a cleansing oils, but it doesn’t feel thick or heavy on my skin. It turns into nice emulsion when I add the water, it breaks down the spf, makeup and is easily washed off. It does blur my sight for a few seconds when I take off my eye makeup, but this goes away rather quickly.

Oskia Renaissance cleansing gel – I couldn’t watch this gel sitting in my stash anymore so I opened it even though I have few cleansers opened at the moment. I use it as my second cleanse or as the only cleanse in my morning routine. It is gentle, but very effective in removing the traces of first cleanser, it is very nice finish of a cleansing routine. It doesn’t foam much which I like and it has that distinctive Oskia smell which I also found in their fabulous Renaissance mask.

Pyunkang Yul Mist Toner – This was my favourite watery toner until I discovered Keep Cool & Soothe bamboo toner. I do not know how many bottles I have opened and emptied so far. It is very runny so you can spill it if you’re not careful. It is very hydrating and soothing.

Secret Key Aloe toner – I must admit that I really like this toner so far. It is watery, sinks in nicely, refreshes and hydrates the skin and works well in my morning routines before Nuface.

Rovectin Skin essentials activating treatment lotion 15ml – I bought two small bottles of this lotion / toner since I wanted to try out something from brand Rovectin. I have only used it maybe 2 or 3 times, I do not like the sticky feeling it leaves on my skin. It feels like a hyaluronic acid lotion, it is hydrating.

I’m From Mugwort essence – I fell in love with this essence immediately after one use and this doesn’t happen so often. This is such calming and soothing essence which feels like a real skin treat and skin medicine at the same time. I enjoy its herbal scent that also contributes to this overall feeling of goodness in a product. I’m in love!!

Medik8 Tetra-C – I have tried lots of vitamin C serums, but I think this is the first one with oily texture. And I like it so far. It is really gentle to the skin, doesn’t sting, burn, itch. Although it is oily, it is absorbed fast and gives really nice and healthy glow.

Alpha-H Vitamin B with copper-peptides – This niacinamide serum was my prime suspect for the breakouts I had on my cheeks in August, so I put it aside for some time. I never break out, I didn’t even have skin trouble during puberty. However, I realised that it was just an unfortunate coincidence with my PMS which makes me break out maybe once in 6 or 7 months.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid + B5 – Although my favourite hyaluronic acid product is Hada Labo’s premium lotion, I try from time to time something else. I got this serum in last year’s Asos advent calendar, so it sat quite a while in my stash. I have used it only few times. I do not like how it feels between my fingers and immediately after application, since I have a feeling that it foams, which is really strange for a serum. Otherwise, it is thicker hyaluronic acid serum that sinks in rather quickly. It leaves a bit of stickiness once you apply next layer.

Versed Just breathe clarifying serum – I had this niacinamide serum for quite a while on my wish list, but it was often out of stock. So when it became available on Cultbeauty, I bought it immediately and I didn’t regret it. It is watery, just how I like my niacinamide serums. I alternate it with Alpha-H niacinamide and I like it better than Alpha-H so far.

Zelens Power A oil 10ml – I have been using A313, Vitamin A pommade on and off, as my only retinoid. I bought this oil few moths ago with a promotional code since it is not very affordable product, but I didn’t want to use it during summer. It doesn’t state the percentage of retinol. I used it only twice till today. It feels nice on the skin, it is absorbed rather quickly and I didn’t feel any burning, stinging or tinkling sensation after the application.

Hylamide SubQ skin – This is such a nice coctail serum with 5 types of hyaluronic acids, peptides. This is really a step up from TO Buffet serum when it comes to texture, the way it applies, feels on the skin. I love it so far.

Thank You Farmer True water deep serum – this is nice hydrating serum with a lightweight texture which sinks in the skin fast. It refreshes the skin, provides nice hydration and make it plump. I like it so far.

Olival Microexfoliant Vitamin H + salicylic acid – This is local Croatian product which I really like. It is basically micro-exfoliant like a Dermatologica one, but it costs a fraction of Dermatologica’s powder and is still very effective and gentle to my skin at the same time. I love it so far.

Paula’s Choice Resist Skin Restoring moisturiser SPF50 trial – I really like the texture of this sunscreen and the way it applies and feels on the skin. However, what I do not like is the fact that it pills off my face no matter which kind of routine I put under it. I have tried with lighter and heavier routines, with different products, but it simply pills of my face every time I touch it.

Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta peel Extra strength – Don’t let the part of Extra strength fool you, those pads are not harsh in any way (at least to my skin). These are excellent 2-step peel pads that leave my skin so soft, smooth and work great without causing any redness, irritation. You may feel just a slight tingling at the very beginning.

I’m from Mugwort mask – This is definitely my favourite I’m from mask I have tried so far. I also tried Honey and Rice. This is real treat for the skin: it is cooling, hydrating, soothing. It has an interesting herbal scent that is not overwhelming. First time I tried it, I had some issues with removal, but I found perfect way to wash it off. I can already say that I will keep on buying this mask.

Manyo Factory Vitamin tree brightening pack – I bought this to verify if it is even close to my favourite Manyo sleeping mask (Overnight miracle mask) which was unfortunately discontinued. And my first impression says it is the same product based on feeling, performance, texture. I cannot understand why they replaced the tube by jar.

Supergoop Unseen sunscreen spf30 – It is clear yellow gel that glides nicely, leaves satin finish, works well under makeup. And it is already in my empties 🙂

Filorga Meso-mask – This is one of the most famous products of Filorga’s range. However, I do not like it so far. The skin is really soft and smooth after I remove it with cotton pad. It’s the aftermath that is problematic. I have used it 2 or 3 times till now and each time my skin started to feel irritated after few hours despite the hydrating skincare routine I put after masking.

I will probably open less products during November. I need to empty something too.

Till next time, stay healthy and beautiful!

Skincare stash decrease project – update 7

I’m here again with another update about my 2020 skincare stash decrease project. You might have noticed that in August I haven’t posted anything, so this is going to be an overview of 2-months empties for August and September. Unlike June and July, I really have a lot empties to talk about. So without further ado, let’s see my cosmetic trash.

Sioris Time is running out mist – this was love at first spritz!! It is great double phased mist that has a watery and oily phase. When shaken up, it creates a perfect, fine mist that refreshes skin and envelops it in a nice hydrating cloud. I used it in my morning routine before hyaluronic acid products, but also during a day to provide a hydrating boost to the skin. And I cannot forget the scent. It smells divine!! I loved it and will repurchase for sure!!

Scinic Snail matrix skin – Together with Cosrx 96 snail essence, this is my favorite product with snail mucin. It is wonderful, hydrating toner whose texture is on a thicker side, but it glides beautifully on the skin, it is absorbed perfectly and completely and provides a nice refreshment to the skin. I have used it for “sandwiching” my Hada Labo premium lotion, and I have been using it lately as a layer under Indeed Labs Hydraluron. This toner complemented nicely both of these products. I will really miss it in my routine. I will repurchase for sure.

Keep Cool & Soothe Bamboo toner – this is my new favorite hydrating toner. I even like it better than Pyunkang Yul mist toner which was my favorite watery toner for a very long time. This toner contains 85% of bamboo water which is great for hydrating and soothing the sensitive skin. It is nicely absorbed while providing to the skin such a nice burst of hydration. I really feel like this toner penetrates into the deeper layers of the skin and thus keeps my skin happy, hydrated and plump. I will repurchase again!!

Mizon AHA/BHA toner – I have already emptied few of these. I use it before my acids, including my serums with vitamin C. I feel like it gives such a nice boost to those products without being harsh to my skin. I have already purchased a backup bottle.

Timeless C + E ferulic – I really enjoyed using this serum. This bottle lasted around 4 months and I kept it in the fridge for whole time. It has very watery texture, it is by far the runniest vitamin C serum I have ever tried. This watery texture makes it very difficult to handle, so I was literally applying it drop by drop. I like the glow and shine it gives to my skin and the healthy feeling I get after apply it. It does not tingle, burn or irritate the skin in any way. I was using it in my morning routine. I will repurchase it.

Dr Jart Peptidin blue – This is nice peptide serum. It has a light, jelly texture, like a light emulsion. It has a hint of blue hue, it is not scented. Although it contains lavander oil, I didn’t detect that scent (which, by the way I hate). The serum is nicely absorbed without being sticky or tacky. It gives certain firmness to the skin if applied on a regular basis. I like it and will probably repurchase it.

Indeed Labs Hydraluron – I bought this serum after reading many raving reviews, but I bought it also because Caroline Hirons recommended it, so I was really curious about it. And they were all right: it is great hyaluronic serum! It has gel-like texture, you need only a small drop to cover face and neck. It is not sticky, tacky, it absorbs quickly and perfectly. The skin is left glowy, plump, hydrated. It makes perfect pair with Caudalie’s Eau de raisin, with some toner or even with a simple thermal water. The only con is that I emptied rather quickly this tube, maybe within a month, since I use hyaluronic acid every single morning. I’m used to Japanese hyaluronic lotions who last for year. Nevertheless, I will repurchase this great hyaluronic serum for sure!

Garden of Wisdom niacinamide – I was so happy when I finished this niacinamide serum. Although by its content, it belongs to “weaker” niacinamide serums (it contains 5% of niacinamide), it didn’t feel like it. It was quite the opposite, it felt very strong and I was affraid it would dry my skin completely. It is recommended to wait for 1 minute after the application before you apply your next step. However, after only 15-20 seconds my face would feel so tight and dry that applying next step would be such a relief. Other than that, I must also say that the packaging is awfull. The plastic pump literally spits the product out. I will obviously not repurchase it again.

Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide booster – I really liked this niacinamide serum / booster. I was using it as 1st step in my evening routine, as I always do with niacinamide serums. Thus, its watery texture is perfect for my routine. It is absorbed in quickly and completely, leaves no residue. I didn’t experience any redness or tingling or burning which sometimes happens with this kind of serums. After the bad experience I had with Garden of Wisdom niacinamide, this serum felt like a real treat to my skin and gave it such a relief. I emptied this 20ml bottle rather quickly since I was using it every night. Taking into account that it costs around 50 EUR for 20ml, I must admit that this is not a very affordable choice. Otherwise, I love it!

Celimax Nooni ampoule – This is a good, hydrating little serum. I use the word little since I think it is alright, but nothing more or less. It does no harm to my skin, but apart an instant refreshment, I do not honestly see any additional benefit of using this serum.  I like its scent, it is herbal and kind of relaxing and therapeutical. This serum isn’t something that is indispensable for my routine or something that I will miss.  I will not repurchase it.

Real Barrier Essence mist – This is nice mist that is on a thicker side. It didn’t suit me as a 1st step, but it was a perfect choice for “sandwich” with hyaluronic acid product. This mist locks in the hyaluron and its moisture nicely. Since I only had a 30ml bottle, I emptied it rather quickly. I do not think I will give it another try.

I’m from Fig cleansing balm – This is nice cleansing balm. It looks like it is on a heavier, thicker side, but once you start massaging it between the fingers, it melts easily. It is not greasy, it disolves and removes the makeup and dirt easily. It is easily washed off. Although I always use the separate eye makeup remover, I test each cleansing balm on my eyes. It is effective in removing eye makeup, but it does blur the sight a bit. I still like this balm and will probably repurchase it.

Nooni Re-cover pads – The packaging contained 7 exfoliating discs since it is intended for a week of use. However, I used them during longer period, since I do not use any exfoliating product on a daily basis. These are very mild exfoliating pads that refresh the complexion and are not irritating or tingling, but honestly when it comes to exfoliation I didn’t notice a big effect. I will not repurchase.

Glamglow Supermud cleansing treatment – I got this tube in some beauty box or in an Advent calendar. Since I used it only once in 2 weeks and only on my T-zone, this 15 ml tube lasted for ages. At first, I struggled to find an appropriate quantity of mask. If I put a thin layer, it would dry down in a second and my whole face felt very tight. On the other hand, if I put a thicker layer, it would take ages to dry down and it was very difficult to wash it off. Once I found the appropriate quantity, I really liked this mask since it removed few blackheads I have and it made my skin very clean and clear. If I could find another small tube, I would purchase again.

I emptied 2 sunscreens: Ducray Melascreen Creme legere and Supergoop Unseen sunscreen. I was satisfied with Ducray Melascreen at first. However, after I emptied maybe 2/3 of tube, it started to burn my skin upon application. It was really unpleasant feeling so I didn’t even go through the whole tube. On the other hand, Supergoop’s Unseen sunscreen is great. It is a yellow transparent gel which leaves no white cast at all, just like the name says, it is unseen. It is spread nicely, it is absorbed quickly and acts like a perfect primer for my bb cream and foundation. I have already repurchased a new small tube.

During last 2 months I emptied only 9 sheet masks. At the same time, I bought few ones, so my stash increased and decreased at the same time.

I also gifted 1 moisturizer (Elemis Pro-collagen marine cream).

August/September total:  16 empties + 9 sheet masks

Yearly total: 68 empties + 41 sheet masks

Just like past months, I did cheat a bit and I purchased some things: Klairs Daily skin hydrating water 500ml, I’m From Mugwort mask, Derma-E Firming DMAE serum Alpha lipoic acid and C-ester, Versed Just Breathe clarifying serum, Olival Micro-exfoliant with vitamin H and salicilic acid (local Croatian product), Alpha-H Vitamin B serum and another Supergoop Unseen sunscreen spf30 (15ml).

So, at the end of September 2020, this is current status of my skincare stash:

  • 12 cleansers
  • 14 toners and mists
  • 20 acid & active treatments
  • 14 essences
  • 8 serums / ampoules
  • 3 emulsions
  • 22 moisturizers and sunscreens
  • 5 sleeping packs
  • 10 facial oils
  • 18 masks
  • 4 eye creams and eye masks
  • 87 sheet masks

Till next time stay healthy and beautiful!

Skincare stash decrease project – update

Hello everybody!

This will be a very short post just to say hello. If anyone is following my posts, you might have noticed that I didn’t publish the update about the empties for August, but also about the products I have opened during the month.

I have been really busy lately although I’m working from my home office and I do not find enough time to write about skincare. The days are passing by and today is already September 22nd, so I decided that I will do a 2-months empties post for August and September and I will do the same for the newly opened products.

If you’re interested in what I have to stay, stay tuned. I will publish the skincare stash decrease project update on Sunday October 4th.

Till next time, stay healthy and beautiful!

Products I opened in July 2020

August is coming slowly to its end and I haven’t still posted my newly opened products for the month of July. So it’s about time I do it!

Although my stash was hiding some nice products and I opened several really interesting skincare items during past months, I must admit that among the products I opened in July, I found 3 magnificient additions to my routine, which can easily become my yearly favourites. Please continue reading to find out which are those 3 products. Click here if you’re interested in what I opened in April, May and June.

Here are the products I opened during July:

Drunk Elephant F-balm mask – this is first newly opened product that blew my mind completely, but also first Drunk Elephant product I quite liked. Basically this is an overnight mask or if you want a moisturiser. When I pumped it out of packaging for the first time, I got a little bit worried as its texture seemed to be thick and greasy. But the moment it touched the skin, it turned into something thin, easy to spread, fast absorbing. After the application, I thought it wouldn’t do so much for my skin, but in the morning, I really felt a difference in how my skin felt (nourished, firm, happy, shiny, but not greasy). I love it!!

Allies of the skin Molecular amino acid cleanser – this is easily one of the best second cleansers I have ever tried (and trust me, I tried a bunch!!). Obviously this is second newly opened item I adored during July. It is such a glorious cleanser. It has a creamy texture, it is spread easily and the second it touches the skin you feel it is a real treat. It is efficiant, gentle. I loved it so much that I started to use it in the morning and I do not use cleansers in the morning. This tells you how much I love it!! I wish it was a little bit cheaper.

Indeed Labs Hydraluron – Last few years, the only hyaluronic acid product in my routine was Hada Labo premium lotion which I really love. During last year, I collected few other hyaluronic acid products (essences, serums) which now replace my beloved Hada Labo. This Hydraluron serum was bought because I heard Caroline Hirons raving about it. It has a jelly texture which is thicker than my Hada Labo, so I use it after my toners. I was using Hada Labo between 2 toners. Although it is on thicker side, it glides easily and is absorbed nicely and it is not sticky or tacky. After first few applications, I felt like my skin was tight and I was affraid that it would end up drying my face. To prevent this, I introduced an additional small step which is a spritz of Caudalie grape water which locks the moisture in the skin and makes it plump. I like it so far now.

Purito Centella Green level unscented spf50 – After I heard and read so many raving reviews of this sunscreen, I simply had to try it. It is light, easily spread, it is not greasy, it sinks in nicely, the finish is a bit dewy but not too shiny. It works well under my bb cream. However, I would only recommend it for short stay at sun. This is by no means heavy duty sunscreen. I didn’t have any issues with it since I didn’t use it on beach, but my sister tried it on the beach and even though she reapplied it few times, she got her forehead burnt.

Mamonde Petal spa oil to foam – Rose – Although I really enjoy in double cleansing and see the benefits it brings to my skin, I have to admit that I’m not always in mood for it or I’m a bit lazy and feel tired, but still do not want to skip cleansing. And for nights like these, I’m always looking for a nice cleanser that can replace both steps while still being effective. This Mamonde oil to foam cleanser is definitely excellent choice and as its name says it turns from oil to foam during cleansing. It is gentle, effective, removes dirt, spf, makeup. Although I always have a separate product for eye makeup removal, I test every cleanser on my eyes at least once. This one burnt my eyes and I wouldn’t recommend it for that. The only thing I do not like about this cleanser is that it is really overfragranced. It obviously smells like roses, but it is really overwhelming and this can be issue since lot of people do not like rose scent. The scent of this cleanser is nice, but simply it is too much.

Fantastic Three

Paula’s Choice Azelaic acid booster – Since I sometimes experience some mild redness and skin sensitivity, I bought this azelaic acid booster since azelaic acid is, among other things, good for calming the skin redness. I use this booster in my night routine, but as a last step and in place of a moisturizer, since its texture is really a texture of a moisturizer. I do not see myself applying anything else on top of this. It glides nicely, is well absorbed, but still it leaves a film on the skin, as a protective layer. It feels confortable on the skin, nourishes it and calms nicely. I like it so far!

La Roche Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 – you could have already seen this moisturizer in my Empties post. It is my go-to product for the times of crises when my skin is sensitised by retinoids, red, etc.

Anessa Perfect uv sunscreen skincare milk spf50 – as you can see from the picture above, the third product that blew my mind during July is this fantastic Japanese sunscreen. I’m on hunt now for a full size product since this is small 20ml bottle. This sunscreen has a beautiful, milky texture that glides perfectly on the skin. It is also completely and perfectly absorbed and it has a beautiful satin finish; the skin feels like velvet!! It has a bit of white cast, but it disappers in a minute. It is not greasy, and it is not drying during the day. I wore it as a last step, but also under my bb cream and it works great with it. I have also tested it during a beach day and it turned out great (unlike Purito one). I love the texture, the effect, the protection it provides. This is probably the best sunscreen I have ever tried!

Herbivore oils: Bakuchiol and Lapis – I have these oils for a long time and so it was about time that I try these. I remembered also that some girls complained that oils went bad really quickly and I do not want this to happen to mine. I prefer Bakuchiol oil to Lapis since it is lighter, absorbed faster and feels better on a skin. Lapis reminds me of an oil I have already in my stash and it is Aromatica blue lively oil which is much cheaper and still equaly good.

Real Barrier Essence mist – this is nice mist that is on a thicker side, so it is not practical as a first step. It smells nice, hydrates and nourishes at the same time. It leaves a bit of a film on the skin, but it is not sticky. I use it as to seal the moisture from Hydraluron.

The Inkey List Retinol eye cream – Although this eye cream aims the demographics so much younger than mine (it says on the packaging it is for 25+, and I’m 25+15 + few more 🙂 ), I still had to try because of the retinol in it. Actually I do not feel that it contains retinol since it is not aggressive in any way. It is very lightweight and feels like that on the skin, sinks in nicely and leaves the skin hydrated. We’ll see for the long-term effects since it is really to early to talk about it.

Till next time, stay healthy and beautiful!

Skicare stash decrease project – update 6

Hello everybody!

I’m here with the latest update of my skincare stash decrease project I started in February. Honestly, I thought I would be more efficient in emptying my stash than last month, but I wasn’t and only have few empties this time.

So, without further ado, here are my latest empties:

Botanic Farm Grain Ferment cleansing sherbet – Although I liked this balm cleanser at the very beginning, the more I used it, the less I liked it. It has a nice texture that melts easily and is very pleasant to use, but it is not as effective as I hoped it would be. It wasn’t removing my makeup completely as other cleansing balms did.  I will not repurchase.

Tatcha The Deep cleanse – When I opened this cleanser, I had in mind to apply it each day as a 2nd cleanser in my night routine, However, when I started to use it, I ditched that idea due to the fact that this cleanser contains some beads that reminded me of a scrub. Although this is really mild cleanser and it didn’t cause any dryness or irritation, I didn’t want to use it every single day just because of those beads. The cleanser is otherwise great, very effective, pleasant to use, it is easily washed off, doesn’t sting the eyes, a little goes a long way. It is not foaming a lot, it turns into a nice emulsion that gently cleanses the skin. I really loved this cleanser so I will probably repurchase it.

Hada Labo Goku-Jyun Premium lotion – this hyaluronic acid lotion (Japanese word for toner) is one of my favourite products in general. I think this is my 3rd bottle and basically it was and is my companion throughout my Asian beauty journey (almost since the beginning). The first one was Kohaku hada lotion. Hada Labo is perfect hyaluronic lotion. It is not watery, it is more like a lightweight gel that sinks in the skin fast and leaves no residue what so ever while perfectly hydrating the skin, making it plump and healthy. I paired this lotion with Keep cool and soothe bamboo toner and sandwich it under Scinic Matrix snail skin. It was a perfect combo!! I don’t have to mention that is really an affordable product since you need only few drops for one application and the bottle lasts forever, around a year or even longer. I will definitely repurchase.

Blithe Crystal Iceplant pressed serum – Unlike his more powerful “brother” Tundra Chaga pressed serum, this serum cannot replace two products in my routine. However, I still love this serum. It provides delightful, lightweight, hydrating care for my skin and it is a perfect summer serum due to its gel like texture. Depending on the needs of my skin, sometimes I applied a thinner and sometimes a thicker layer so I managed to empty this jar in 2 months. It sinks in fast and flawlessly without leaving a sticky or tacky residue. I was applying this serum in my morning routine before a sunscreen. It didn’t pill of my face or didn’t cause the pilling of my spf. I will repurchase for sure.

Benton Fermentation eye cream – I got this eye cream in Iherb Kbeauty discovery bag. Although it has nice fluffy, light texture, it wasn’t so easy to handle it / massage it. I really had to do some effort to rub it in. It was really a bit weird feeling. Otherwise, it is pleasant, hydrating. I cannot tell if it works for wrinkles or lines, since I didn’t have it for a long time. I do not think I will repurchase it.

CNP Green propolis ampoule – I must say that I didn’t like at all the texture of this propolis ampoule which is really thick. When you combine this thick texture and the pipette that comes with the product, you obtain the terrible combo. It is almost impossible to dose this ampoule with it. This ampoule nourishes nicely the skin, but leaves a sticky, tacky residue on the skin, which doesn’t disappear for quite a while. I wouldn’t repurchase a full size product.

Klairs Soft airy uv essence spf50– This is one of my favourite sunscreens. It is great spf cream with chemical filters. It is not greasy, it sinks in completely and flawlessly so I use it both as a last step of my routine on my no makeup days, but also under my makeup. It works great with my Missha Perfect cover bb cream. I have already repurchased a backup.

In July I emptied: 2 cleansers / 1 toner / 2 serums / 1 sunscreen / 1 eye cream

I used only 4 sheet masks, so the stash didn’t change a lot.

July total:  7 empties + 4 sheet masks

Yearly total: 52 empties + 32 sheet masks

I purchased again some things, mostly sunscreens: The Inkey List Retinol eye cream, Klairs Soft airy uv essence spf 50, Shiseido Anessa Perfect sunscreen milk spf50 (20ml) and Supergoop Unseen sunscreen spf30 (15ml).

So, at the end of July 2020, this is current status of my skincare stash:

  • 13 cleansers
  • 17 toners and mists
  • 22 acid & active treatments
  • 14 essences
  • 10 serums / ampoules
  • 3 emulsions
  • 24 moisturizers and sunscreens
  • 5 sleeping packs
  • 10 facial oils
  • 18 masks
  • 4 eye creams and eye masks
  • 91 sheet masks

Till next time stay healthy and beautiful!

 

 

Products I opened in June 2020

I’m here again with another post about all the products I introduced to my skincare routine during past month.

If you’re curious about the products I have introduced recently (last few months), you can click here for April and May.

 

Algenist Alive Prebiotic balancing mask – I got this mask in my SpaceNK birthday gift. It is fun to use as its colour changes from pale baby blue to pale pink once you start massaging it in the skin. Some people say it is gimmicky, I say it’s fun.  As far as the effect of this mask goes, it feels on my skin as every other clay mask. My skin feels and looks purified, brightened and healthy. Although the packaging I got is really small, I will have it for at least 5-6 applications since a little goes a long way.

The Ordinary Pycnogenol 5% – Besides the vitamin C, I’m always searching for some other anti-oxidant, so this serum was a logical choice. I use it in my morning routine, but I do not skip the vitamin C when using the pycnogenol. Although there is no oil in it, this serum is kind of oily, but is absorbed very quickly in the skin and makes a perfect canvas for the application of sunscreen (I currently rotate Klairs Soft airy uv essence and Ducray Melascreen). It has a dark, red colour, but does not stain the skin. It has a little funky smell that reminds me of vinegar.

Ducray Melascreen spf50 light – I always like to have 2 or more sunscreens in my routine. I tend to use this sunscreen on my no makeup days. It is heavier than my Klairs Soft airy uv essence, but still it feels nice on the skin and is well absorbed. It leaves a little bit of white cast at first, but this disappears quickly. I have also used it few times under my bb cream, and it didn’t cause my makeup to glide off my face. I like it so far.

I’m from Fig cleansing balm – this was the first item I ordered from South Korea after long hiatus (long time in my shopping terms is 3 months). As mentioned in my Stash decrease project post, I’m on a nobuy, but also due to the pandemics I do not have access to any Kbeauty sellers since they do not deliver the packages to my country for the moment. I was happy like a child who got his long yearned toy when I received this cleansing balm. I like it so far. It looks a bit heavier and greasy, but once I rub it in my palms and heat it, it melts nicely. It is efficient, removes well the makeup and spf. It does blur my eyes a bit, but this disappears quickly.

Atrue Green tea watery calming cream – This moisturizer is the first product I have tried from the brand Atrue. It is really nice, light cream and perfect choice for summer moisturizer. The texture is not thick and it sinks nicely in the skin. It provides nice moisture. I use it mostly in my night routine as a last step.

Paula’s Choice 10% niacinamide booster – The niacinamide is one of the most important parts of my skincare routine. I use it every day in my night routine as a first step after cleansing. I usually buy Kbeauty niacinamide serums, but since I cannot order anything from S Korea for the moment, I’m currently testing western ones. After I tried Garden of Wisdom niacinamide (I talked about it in my last Empties), I finally opened Paula’s Choice one. Its watery consistency is perfect for my skincare routine. It is not drying or irritating. It sinks fast and perfectly in the skin. I love it so far.

CNP Green propolis ampoule – I love good propolis serum and always have one in my stash and in my routine. This CNP is on a thicker and little bit stickier side. Because of its consistency, it is really difficult to handle it / dose it with the pipette it comes with. I will go through it fast since this is a 5ml sample.

Sioris Time is running out mist – This was the love at first spritz! I just love, love, love this mist. It it biphasic mist that contains oils for nourishing, but it feels so light and refreshing on the skin. And the smell is divine! It doesn’t smell of essential oils as some mists do. This scent is really unique and beautiful, but since I’m really bad in describing the scents and perfumes, I will let you discover it yourself. I use this mist in my morning routine, under my hyaluronic acid toner and they play great together.

Lixirskin Vitamin C paste – I had this paste for quite a while in my stash so I was a bit worried that it would go bad which can happen often with products containing vitamin C, but to my great pleasure this was not the case this time. I expected something much thicker, since it is called a paste, but don’t let the name fool you. It is nice gel mask which really easily spread. The thing I really like about this product that it doesn’t require a lot of time to work. I leave it for maybe 2-3 minutes and wash it off. And the first application really blew my mind away, because the shine it gave to my skin was so insane. This shine was reduced a bit with the further application, but I still shine bright with this mask (I’m listening an old Rihanna’s hit as I’m writing this). And I didn’t experience any reaction (tingling, burning, redness). The only thing I don’t like is the scent (I have to admit that it stinks), but this funky scent disappears quickly. Otherwise, it wouldn’t be a pleasant masking experience at all. Anyhow, I like this mask.

What did you introduce to your routine lately?

Till next time, stay healthy and beautiful!

 

Skincare stash decrease project – update 5

So once again, I’m here with another empties post, but this time, it will be the post with the least emptied products ever since I started my skincare stash decrease project in February. I hope that I will be more productive in July when it comes to emptying the products.

Here are my June empties:

Garden of Wisdom Niacinamide serum – Since I use the niacinamide every day in my night-time routine, I went through this bottle rather quickly. Although this serum contains lower percentage of niacinamide (only 5%) compared to some other niacinamide serums I have tried so far, I must say that it feels pretty strong on my skin. Honestly, I thought it would dry me out which doesn’t happen so often. After you apply the serum, it is recommended to wait 30s before continuing with the rest of your routine.  The serum sinks in very fast, but the tightening feeling it causes after 15-20s is pretty strong and uncomfortable.  Besides the feeling that I do not like, I must also say that the packaging is terrible. The pump is very bad and it literally spits the serum. I will not repurchase.

Dr Ceuracle Royal vita propolis ampoule – this propolis ampoule was really a breath of a fresh air in the category of propolis ampoules compared to its predecessor (Elensilia propolis ampoule) which was terribly sticky. This ampoule has really a light texture,  sinks in perfectly into the skin without leaving  sticky or tacky residue. It hydrates and nourishes the skin and gives it a nice glow. I really enjoyed using it. I was mostly using it in my night routine, under a moisturizer or sleeping pack. The only downside is the size of bottle which is 15ml so it makes it a little bit expensive, but I would still repurchase it.

 

La Roche Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 – this is really a skin saviour when I experience some redness, irritations, skin sensitivity. It provides the instant relief to the skin which is sensitised by retinoids. I do not use on a daily basis, as it can be a bit greasy for my skin, especially now in the summer.

Ausome Rehydrating double mist – This is nice, byphase mist that I sometimes used as a toner and sometimes as a mist. It smells nice, it refreshes and hydrates the skin. I prefer the mists that contain a bit of oil than regular thermal waters which tend to leave my skin thirsty once they sink into the skin. I use those mostly on the beach. I must commend the packaging and the sprayer because it makes such lovely mist. I think of leaving the bottle, wash it and use it for some other products. When it comes to mist itself, I’m not sure if I will repurchase it again.

Banila Co Miss Flower & Mr Honey cream– I was really happy when I bought those 3 mini jars, since I wanted to try this moisturizer even since I started to explore Kbeauty world. The texture is very thick, balmy and waxy, but it glides really nicely on the skin. I thought that it would take forever before it sinks in, but it really absorbs very fast. I was using it as a last step of my night routine since there is no need to use anything else on top of it. It is really nourishing, it creates likes a protective film, but it doesn’t feel like I have a mask on my face which happened sometimes with this kind of moisturizer. I still have 2 mini jars, but I will repurchase it for sure.

Innisfree capsule recipe pack (aloe) – I dropped this in my basket as a shipping saver on Iherb. This feels and acts like an aloe gel. It is thin and spreads well, it is not sticky. I used the content of this jar in one shot and it was a really thicker layer. I could have easily used it in two occasions. It provides nice hydration.  I will maybe try some other type of this pack next time.

I also emptied few products that were not counted in my skincare stash inventory and in my empties: Goodal Green Tangerine C vita pads and Klavuu Nourishing lip sleeping mask, which I quite like both and will purchase again. I really liked Goodal Green Tangerine vita C pads unlike the serum from the same line. I alternated the pads with my vitamin C serum in the morning routine and they were quite refreshing.

Besides the emptied products, I gifted 1 toner (Tonymoly Mocchi ceramide toner).

In June, I emptied 2 toners and mists/ 1 acid & active treatment / 1 serum / 1 moisturizer / 1 wash-off mask.

And once again, I used 5 sheet masks, but since I bought 4 of them, the stash didn’t change a lot.

June total:  7 empties + 5 sheet masks

Yearly total : 45 empties + 28 sheet masks

I purchased again some things (shame on me): NIOD Superoxide dismutase sachharide mist, The Ordinary Buffet + copper peptides, La Roche Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 and Medik8 C-tetra serum and 4 sheet masks. I got as a gift DHC Deep cleansing oil.

So, at the end of June 2020, this is current status of my skincare stash:

  • 15 cleansers
  • 18 toners and mists
  • 22 acid & active treatments
  • 14 essences
  • 12 serums / ampoules
  • 3 emulsions
  • 22 moisturizers and sunscreens
  • 5 sleeping packs
  • 10 facial oils
  • 18 masks
  • 4 eye creams and eye masks
  • 95 sheet masks

Till next time stay healthy and beautiful!

 

Products I opened in May 2020

This is my 3rd post in the series of posts about newly opened products. If you’re interested in the products I opened last months, click for March and April.

As mentioned before, I’m on a nobuy, so I do not have any hauls to share.

I have a nice share of opened products since I was really diligent in emptying skincare in May. I try not to open too much before emptying some similar skincare items.

So, without further ado, these products found their way to my skincare routine during May:

I’m From Rice toner – I have already used this toner last year. It is packed with 77,78% of rice extract and promises the brightening and moisturizing effect on your skin. It is lightweight, sinks in quickly and feels very nice on the skin.

Tatcha The Deep Cleanse – I opened this gel cleanser having in mind that I would use it on a daily basis as a second cleanser. However after the first test, I decided to use it only few times a week because of the fact that it contains some exfoliating beads. These are not harsh in any way, but I do not use anything on a daily basis that resembles to exfoliating products. Otherwise, this is a nice gel cleanser, a little goes a long way, it is effective, not drying, rinses off nicely.

Berrisom The Prestige Balancing eye serum – when buying this serum, I had an idea to use it only in my morning routine, in place of an eye cream. This is lightweight eye serum, it has a jelly texture that is spread so nicely, sinks in beautifully and completely. It hydrates the eye area, works well under the spf and bb cream, it doesn’t pill. I like it so far.

Benton Fermentation eye cream – Although I have read lots of raving reviews for this eye cream, I have never thought of purchasing it until I got it in my Iherb Kbeauty bag few months ago. It has a light texture, I would say airy, but the application is little bit complicated. I do not get to massage it easily, sometimes I feel like I have only spread it around my eyes. I really have to work it in before it begins to absorb. Although it is light, I do not feel that it is hydrating enough. I use it in my evening routine.

Banila Co Miss Flower & Mr Honey cream – I have to admit that I’m kind of emotional about this moisturizer since it brings me back to my Kbeauty beginnings. When I started to explore Kbeauty back in 2014/2015, this moisturizer was one of the highly raved Kbeauty products and I wanted to try it so bad. However, the price of full size was pretty high and there were no samples available. Meanwhile, I forgot about this moisturizer, but when I saw the set of 3 mini-size jars, I simply couldn’t resist to buying it. I have only used for few times, but I like it so far. The texture of this moisturizer is kind of waxy but it melts nicely when you massage it in the skin and is absorbed nicely without any sticky or greasy residue. It is moisturizing and calming. What I also like about this moisturizer is the scent. It smells like one of my favorite sheet mask Papa Recipe honey. I was so afraid that this product would disappoint me after so many years, but it didn’t.

Cerave Moisturizing lotion 200ml – I must admit I’m a little bit sceptical when a product is being advertised as face and body product and that’s why I was hesitant for quite a long time to buying this lotion. However, when a friend of mine sent me a small jar to try it, I was really pleasantly surprised by its performance. This is really a basic product, but it provides such a nice and deep hydration and some moisture, but also calms the skin. It has 3 types of ceramides and as thus, besides moisturising, it should be beneficial also for your skin barrier. I apply it in both my morning and evening routine whenever I want to add some moisture.

Botanic Farm Grain Ferment cleansing sherbet – This is nice cleansing balm. Its texture is very soft and breaks down in oil very quickly. When I introduced it in my routine, I thought that it broke me out, but it seems that it was only due to my PMS. However, I have some doubts about its efficacy when it comes to removing the makeup, but I do not wear it often lately and will have to test it again.

Blithe Crystal Iceplant pressed serum – Since I really enjoyed using Blithe Tundra chaga pressed serum which I emptied lately, I was very curious about this one and hoped that it would be the same skincare treat. My first impressions do not feel like this is going to happen. This pressed serum has a texture of gel moisturiser and promises to hydrate and soothe the skin. It is lightweight serum, not similar in any way to Tundra chaga pressed serum. It sinks in quickly and completely and hydrates the skin. It is pleasant to use, soothes and cools the skin, but other than that for the moment, I do not see any additional benefit (I have been using for maybe 10 days in my morning routine). Obviously due to the texture, it is perfect choice for the upcoming summer season.

Celimax The Real Noni energy ampoule – this is really nice lightweight ampoule. It is very hydrating and moisturizing, but also very refreshing. It has a very interesting scent, I would dare to say almost therapeutic and thus, it makes the use of this serum very pleasant and healing. Noni as plant / ingredient is anti-oxidant, so the benefits of using this ampoule should be even more important. The one thing I do not like about this ampoule is that I will finish it very quickly if I continue using it every day.

The Ordinary squalane oil – this oil is part of my stash for a long time, so it was really about time to introduce it into my routine. I didn’t want to open any oil, until I emptied the Sunday Riley Juno. This oil is very light. It is not oily at all (if it makes sense of saying it like that). It is calming, nourishing, I use it also on my hair although it is not primarily its purpose.

Garden of Wisdom niacinamide – this serum reminds me of The Inkey List niacinamide by its texture and application. You only need 1-2 pumps of serum for whole face. It is light emulsion and it feels like a jelly, it is absorbed fast in the skin. My skin itches for few seconds after the application. Although by the content of niacinamide (5%), it is not as potent as other niacianamide serums I usually use (10%), it does feel kind of strong on the skin and I honestly think that it will be drying if used  long-term.

Aromatica Lively blue calming oil – I bought this oil long time ago, so honestly I forgot about it, until I rediscover it when making my stash inventory. This oil owes its blue hue, but also its calming features to azulene. It is one of the lightest oil I have tried so far and it is very watery. It feels like oil only for few seconds when you apply it on the skin. It is absorbed flawlessly and nicely without any greasy residue and it makes skin very soft, smooth and calmed. I use it also to prevent the dryness or redness after I use A313 pommade (vitamin A). I really like it so far.

What have you been choosing lately from your skincare stash?

Till next time, stay healthy and beautiful!

 

Skincare stash decrease project – update 4

Hello everybody!

This is the 4th update of my 2020 skincare stash decrease project.

For the reference, I’m 44 years old, with normal skin, which is acting little bit weird lately and tends to be somewhat sensitive (I suppose that comes with the number 44). I do not have wrinkles, besides the horizontal ones on my forehead and these are my companions ever since I was 12 years old. For those who watched the cartoon Smurfs, I was always like the Grouchy smurf when I was teenager and that’s where my forehead wrinkles come from. I started to use the retinoids few months ago, not a Retin A, but some milder and weaker form, A313, Vitamin A pommade. I have been struggling with Sebhorreic dermatitis for years, but it hasn’t appeared on my face for years now.

Clinique Take the day off cleansing balm – this cleansing balm is thick balm, it melts well, it is effective in removing the makeup, dirt, spf. It doesn’t leave the greasy residue on the skin, it is washed off nicely, but my overall impression is that I still prefer my Farmacy Green clean to this Clinique’s balm. I will probably buy it from time to time.

Darphin Lumiere essentielle – micellar cleanser – this is a gel-type second cleanser, it is really pleasant to use, non-aggressive or drying. It does its job pretty decently (it does everything what a good second cleanser is supposed to do), washes off nicely without any residue.  I honestly do not have any remarks, but on the other hand, I’m not eager to repurchase a full size.

Klavuu White Pearlsation Revitalising Pearl treatment toner – such a star name with all that pearls in it and then again such a boring toner. I’m a little bit disappointed with it, because I honestly did not see any benefit for my skin. It is very viscous and slippery and because of that is very easy to spread, it glides on the skin nicely. This milky lotion is well absorbed and leaves no residue. The ingredient for which this toner could stand out, besides niacinamide, is pearl extract which is beneficial for the skin, but other than some amount of hydration, I didn’t see any additional benefits (brightening, suppleness). What bothered me also is the scent, which is not unpleasant or strong, it is just too artificial. I will not repurchase.

Benton Green tea lotion – Honestly, I bought this emulsion by mistake. Actually I wanted to buy the toner from the same line, but I did my shopping in a very hasty way without paying attention to what I was buying and got this instead of toner. This is really light emulsion, thinner than the average emulsion I tried. When I think of it, I didn’t try too many emulsions. This is not a bad product, it is hydrating, very refreshing, but to tell you the truth, I do not see any special benefit for my skin if I use the emulsion (not only this one, but emulsion in general). When I empty the ones I have, I will not be buying again.

Sidmool Dr Troub niaten – I have already emptied a bottle of this niacinamide serum and have written about it in my Empties post. I really like its watery texture and the way it absorbs into the skin. It calms the redness, brightens the skin, it is not harsh in any way, doesn’t sting or cause irritation. It is perfect choice due its watery textures since I use it as a 1st step in my evening routine. I will repurchase.

Caudalie Vinosource S.O.S. calming serum – this is one of only few western serums that I really enjoy reintroducing over and over again to my routine. It provides the deep and lasting hydration, it is gentle, well absorbed and in general, very pleasant to use. The only thing I do not like about this serum is that I go through it very quickly (if I use it morning and evening, it lasts less than a month). I will repurchase it for sure.

Sunday Riley Juno Antioxidant + superfood oil – This is such a great, luxury oil blend!  I love it!! It contains 9 high-quality cold-pressed oils (blackberry, blueberry, cranberry, grape seed oil, black cumin and some other oils). This oil delivers moisture and nourishment at the same time and it makes my skin healthy and juicy giving it such a nice glow. I enjoyed in every single drop of this luxury treat. I will repurchase it for sure!

Isntree Bifida TW-real eye cream – Since I opened this eye cream right after I emptied my HG eye cream, Bobbi Brown Extra Repair eye cream, this one had really huge shoes to fill. So I basically didn’t expect much, but I got pleasantly surprised. This eye cream has a gel texture, is nicely spread and absorbs quickly and completely. Due to the silicones in the INCI list, it is occlusive, but is also moisturizing. My eye area didn’t worsen in the sense that some wrinkles reappeared while I was using this eye cream, and it really maintained well the soft look and feel of my eye area. I was mostly applying it in my night routine, but I have also put it few times in my morning routine and it worked well under my Missha BB cream.  I will repurchase it again.

Isntree Rose calming mask –  This is wonderful moisturising and calming wash-off mask. It has a gel-type texture and is infused with rose petals. I applied this mask sometimes once a week and sometimes twice. The instructions say that you are suppose to leave it on your skin for 10-15 minutes, but I left it sometimes for even 30 minutes and it never dried out completely. The consistency of the mask is not watery, so it does not drip off the face. To make the rinsing easier, I usually put some water on the face and emulsify it before I start to wash it off properly. After the mask is rinsed off, the skin is soft, nourished, any irritation or redness is gone. The scent of rose is not overwhelming or clingy, I find it very pleasant and this makes the whole masking experience even more lovely. Of course, people who don’t like the rose scent will not like this one either. I have already small tube in my back up (I have bought a set of 4 different Isntree masks).

Dr Jart Cicapair Tiger grass color correcting treatment – or as I love to call it “green cream”. This is second jar I emptied so far. This jar usually lasts around 1 year. I apply it when I don’t feel like using my BB cream. I must admit that lately all I have been using is this cream. Applying this cream requires little bit of practising since you could end up looking like Casper, the friendly ghost, if you go with heavier hand.  For me, the good way to apply it is in dots, massaging and building it up. This is definitely not a first choice if I’m in a hurry. The coverage is light, but still enough for the current look of my skin. It neutralizes redness and evens the skin tone, it feels very nice on the skin. The finish is matte. Taking into account its light coverage, it does start to disappear within few hours, but still in a nice way without any ugly streaks. Now there are small jars available in all shops which sell Dr Jart, which wasn’t the case before, so I will definitely repurchase a smaller jar.

I have managed again to use up some sheet masks. I used 6 of them so I’m really happy to conclude that the stash of my sheet masks finally fell under 100 pcs. As you can see, my sheet masks empties for May are all green. First 2 or 3 were a pure coincidence, but then when I noticed it, I was purposely choosing the sheet masks with green packaging till the end of May.

In May, I emptied: 2 cleansers / 1 toner / 1 active treatment / 1 serum / 1 emulsion / 1 moisturizer / 1 facial oil / 1 wash off mask / 1 eye cream

May total: 10 empties + 6 sheet masks

Yearly total : 38 empties + 23 sheet masks

I must admit that I’ve cheated again and bought few things: I’m from Fig cleansing balm, Zelens Power A oil drop, Paula’s Choice 10% Niacinamide booster, Paula’s Choice Resist Skin Restoring moisturiser SPF50 trial size.

So, at the end of May 2020, this is current status of my skincare stash:

  • 14 cleansers
  • 19 toners and mists
  • 21 acid & active treatments
  • 14 essences
  • 13 serums / ampoules
  • 3 emulsions
  • 22 moisturizers and sunscreens
  • 5 sleeping packs
  • 10 facial oils
  • 19 masks
  • 4 eye creams and eye masks
  • 96 sheet masks

Till next time stay healthy and beautiful!