vanityfairness

[vanityfairness]

May 2025 & June 2025 Empties

* = disliked the product - would not repurchase ** = liked the product - would not repurchase *** = liked the product - might or might not repurchase **** = loved the product - would repurchase *HOLY GRAIL!*

1. Village 11 Factory Will Invigorate Hand & Body Wash (35ml/1.18oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: I can't really remember how this was but it smells pretty good. If I remember correctly it was moisturizing enough. rating: **

2. Village 11 Factory Will Invigorate Hand & Body Lotion (35ml/1.18oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: It's the same scent as the hand and body wash. The lotion spreads easily and wasn't too thick. rating: **

3. Village 11 Factory Miracle Youth Double Cleanser (30ml/1.01oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: This was okay. It's basically a gel type cleanser. I'm not sure what it means by double cleanser, maybe that you can use it as a first and second cleanser. I just used it as my first cleanser at night and used a different one for a second cleanser. I felt like it cleansed pretty well that sometimes I would just use this and not a second cleanser. But that's only if I have a light layer of sunscreen/I haven't left the house. Overall, this travel kit is very nice and is a good kit for travelling. rating: **

4. LuLuLun Kyoto Mask Sheets source: T & T Supermarket thoughts: I think this version is my favourite out of all the LuLuLun mask sheets I've tried. This is nice for travelling as well, however I found that once this is opened it does tend to leak a bit so you will have to be aware if you have it opened and will be moving around. Great if you will be staying at a place for a week or so though. rating: ***

5. Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Eye Cream (5ml/0.16oz) source: Sephora, part of a set thoughts: I really enjoyed using this eye cream, plus this sample lasted a while as well, maybe 6 months. I typically don't purchase full size products of Sulwhasoo unless it's a good deal, and I only purchase the creams for my mom. But I really do enjoy using Sulwhasoo products. Honestly for this eye cream it's best to purchase a kit/set where it contains the eye cream because you would get a better value. The ones in the sets are typically a 5ml one and the full size is 15ml. The price of just the 15ml one is almost equivalent to a set depending on which set you get. As I'm linking items I've noticed that this packaging is the older version and since then Sulwhasoo has changed their formula for this and also the name. It's now called the 'Concentrated Ginseng Rejuvenating Eye Cream'. rating: ***

6. LuLuLun Tokyo Kouji Mask Sheets source: Japan thoughts: I bought these last minute at the airport, also for souvenir purposes. I feel like these masks may have broke me out a bit but once I stopped using it my face did seem to clear up. These smelt nice and were okay. I feel like these weren't as moisturizing as the Kyoto ones. rating: **

7. mude True Eyelash Serum (8g) source: YesStyle thoughts: The more I use this the more I'm not a big fan of it. The applicator is nice, as it's like a mascara kind of wand which I much prefer rather than a doe foot or a brush. At times I feel like the formulation stings a bit and irritates my eyes. I will test my other one and see if it does the same. I have been using this serum for a while now but I do have my eye on other ones to try out. rating: ***

8. ma:nyo Proxyl AC Rescue Spot Patch (42 patches) source: Stylevana thoughts: These had three sheets, 1 sheet of the size 12mm and 2 sheets of the 10mm size. As you may or may not know I tend to like using the 12mm more compared to any other sizes. These work well like any other spot patch and they stay on. These do feel better than other ones I've tried before. They are the perfect thickness for me, compared to some as some are too thin or too thick. rating: ***

9. unleashia Sharper Defining Eyebrow Pencil: No.2 Kraft Brown source: YesStyle/Stylevana thoughts: I don't think I have ever finished a make-up product before, this may be my first time. I just love this eyebrow pencil as it has a very thin tip and it does not need to be sharpen either. It also has a spool on the other end to brush out the product, which helps make it more natural looking. rating: ****

10. dear klairs Maple Energy Infusing Cream (60g/2.11oz) source: Jolse thoughts: This cream was nice, at times I feel like it doesn't spread or absorb well. It may be because of my serum or essence that hadn't been fully absorbed before I applied this. This didn't really have a maple scent to it, which I was not expecting. The cream claims that it deeply moisturizes and provides rich nourishment to dry, saggy skin resulting in firmer, smoother, and healthier-looking complexion. My skin definitely did feel better, definitely moisturized. I finished this in 3.5 months using it every night. rating: ***

11. Shiseido Urea 10% Cream (100g) source: Stylevana/YesStyle thoughts: I love this cream, but now buying it online can be quite expensive. I find this moisturizing and it doesn't leave a sticky residue. I love it especially for my feet. I always have this in my stash now. rating: *HOLY GRAIL!*

12. The 7 Virtues Lotus Pear Eau de Parfum source: Sephora Sample thoughts: I'm not a big fan of this. It's kind of a weird mix to me. rating: *

13. O HUI Age Recovery Emulsion (140ml) source: Jolse thoughts: I really enjoyed using this as it was very light and spreads easily. It does have a scent to it which I don't mind. This took a really long time to finish and I feel that is with all emulsions for me. The only complaint I have about this product is the packaging. It's really hard to tell how much product is left in the bottle, with the softener you can see it as it's more of a tinted bottle. rating: ***

14. Biore UV Aqua Rich Aqua Protect Mist SPF50 PA++++ (60ml) source: Japan thoughts: I bought this on a whim while I was in Japan as it was hot and I didn't want something thick, but I also wanted something that was easy to apply. So I thought a mist sunscreen would be good. I really like this as it's quick and easy to apply and not very sticky. It's very convenient to reapply as well. rating: ****

15. NARD Mild Whip Pore Cleansing Foam (40ml/1.35oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: This was pretty good. It lathered and cleansed well. As for it helping with pores, I didn't notice much of a difference. rating: ***

16. Purito Oat-In Calming Gel Cream (100ml/3.38ml) source: YesStyle thoughts: This was a very light gel cream. I did like it but once again I noticed like a kind of plastic kind of scent to the product. I don't know if it's just me or something else. I've noticed a lot of my products that are in tube packaging tend to have a plastic scent especially products that are scent free or are for sensitive skin. Hence, why I like creams that are in jars more but I do know that this is more hygienic. I may try this again as I did like the formulation and the packaging was pretty good as I was able to get every drop out of it. rating: ***

17. Alive:Lab 02 Scalp Water Shampoo (350ml) source: YesStyle thoughts: I actually like this scalp shampoo more compared to the Steambase one. Not a fan of how much space the bottle takes though. I feel like this worked better at soothing my scalp compared to the Steambase one. I'm not sure if I want to try another scalp shampoo, most of them haven't really helped with my situation. rating: ***

18. Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum VI (8ml/0.27oz) source: gift w/ purchase thoughts: I absolutely love this product as it really helps moisturize my skin and is a great layering piece. Although I love this I would not purchase the full size as I would consume it very quickly and it's just not worth the price to have that constantly. I am satisfied just getting the mini versions through the sets and using that. It's like a little treat. rating: ****

19. dear, klairs Maple Energy Infusing Serum (30ml/1.01oz) source: Jolse thoughts: I actually really like this. It was light weight, spreads and absorbs wonderfully. Now this product I can actually smell a hint of maple compared to the cream which didn't really have a scent. This works really well with the cream, but I would have to try them together again to really see. I feel like the cream might be better for the colder months. I finished this in 1.5 months using 4 pumps each night, although I did start using a retinol twice a week about half way through this product. I feel like this product will be good for year round use. I got this at a really good price, 1+1 during one of Jolse promotions, same for the cream as well. rating: ****

20. Charley Bath Salt & Herbs - A little bird told me, Yuzu will be ripen soon (30g) source: YesStyle thoughts: I really like using these as they come in like a tea bag format so it's easy to remove. To me these are more of a sensory and for relaxation kind of product, rather than for relaxing the muscles. The scent of this reminds me of the Chinese dried tangerines/ dried citrus fruits that you would nibble on. rating: ***

21. 107 Beauty Scalp Purifying Microbiome Shampoo (500ml/16.9oz) source: Jolse thoughts: I have tried a few scalp shampoos now and I found this to be okay. It did not help with my scalp condition. I have heard and seen a lot of influencers comment about this but for me it just didn't really work. They have also renewed the product not sure what specifically was renewed aside from the packaging and it containing less product. It was 500ml before and now it's 380ml. rating: **

22. Sulwhasoo Essential Comfort Balancing Water, Balancing Emulsion, & Firming Comfort source: Gift w/ purchase thoughts: I just love this line. I feel like you can never go wrong with this line by Sulwhasoo. I love when I get these deluxe sample kits, because they are also very good for travel. I would definitely recommend this line for people who want to try Sulwhasoo, it also isn't as heavily ginseng scented compared to the other lines. However, this is an expensive brand hence I usually don't buy them for myself. I typically buy it for my mom and I would take the samples from the sets. rating: ****

23. IOPE UV Shield Sun Protector & Tone Up Sun SPF 50+ PA++++ (10ml/0.33oz) source: Amore Global samples thoughts: I really enjoyed using these sunscreens. I haven't used a tone up one for a long time now. The tone up one was nice but I'm still not a big fan of it. I feel like it makes me more oily and sometimes it would pile. I do like the regular version one but what I really want to try is the ampoule version by IOPE cause that has been talked about quite a bit and it would be lighter as well. rating: ***

24. MARVIS Jasmin Mint Toothpaste (75ml/3.8oz) source: well.ca thoughts: I have seen this toothpaste for a while now and decided to try it because David's toothpaste wasn't always the one I really liked. The taste of this was something that I definitely had to get use to. This scent/flavour was definitely unique but once you get use to it, it's not bad. I feel like this toothpaste has maintained the whiteness of my teeth compared to others which bounce back and forth more. I did purchase a few other flavours to try. rating: ***

Samples Used

it's skin Power 10 Formula LI Effector Fighter 10

Purito Defence Barrier pH Cleanser

vegreen Nature Mucin Serum

[vanityfairness]

March & April 2025 Empties

* = disliked the product - would not repurchase ** = liked the product - would not repurchase *** = liked the product - might or might not repurchase **** = loved the product - would repurchase *HOLY GRAIL!*

1. atrix Beauty Charge Honey & Yuzu Hand Cream (80g) source: n/a thoughts: I love the scent of these hand creams, but they aren't the moist moisturising. rating: **

2. heimish All Clean Balm: Mandarin (5ml/0.16oz) source: sample thoughts: I really like Heimish's cleansing balms, but I prefer the original one more. I feel like this one was more oily. I like the consistency of this, as it wasn't too thick to the point that it becomes hard to spread. rating: ***

3. steambase Tea Tree Scalp Water Scaler (250ml/8.45oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: I feel like this did help with my scalp condition. My scalp isn't as itchy compared to before when I use this in combination with a regular shampoo. I like the packaging of this, as it's a skinny bottle and has a cap that I can easily determine if the bottle is opened or not. This product also comes as a refill so you do not have to buy the bottle again. The refill allows you to fill the bottle up at least 2 times. rating: ***

4. O HUI Age Recovery skin softener (150ml) source: Jolse thoughts: I really like this. It is hydrating and very light. It also absorbs really well. I used this during the day and would pat it into my skin at least two times. rating: ***

5. Davids natural mint+charcoal toothpaste (149g/5.25oz) source: well.ca thoughts: I did really like this toothpaste, but as I use it more I feel like it doesn't do that great of a job in helping me whiten my teeth or keep it white. Plus this is an American product, which I want to try to lean away from. I just checked and it seems that this is now discontinued. rating: ***

6. I'm from Supul Body Scrub & Wash (300g/10.58oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: I really love the look of this, a simple glass bottle with what it is on the bottom in black font. It's a very minimalistic look. However, the product itself wasn't that great. I didn't find it that exfoliating and the product was kind of hard to dispense, compared to the lotion. But I do love the scent of this. I got this for about $30CAD on YesStyle. rating: ***

7. AYUNCHE Rebalancing Mask (200ml/6.7oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: I don't know if this really did anything for my hair or scalp. This has a herbal kind of scent to it which my mom did not like. I did not mind the scent at all. It was okay but at the price of $74 it was a very steep price for an okay product. At the time when I purchased this it was a brand that was hard to find, but now you can find it for about $25-30CAD. Stylevana has also added additional AYUNCHE products now and this mask is at a much much lower price point now. rating: ***

8. The Saem Perfumed Hand Shea Butter: Garden Rose (30ml/1.01oz) source: Gift thoughts: I found this to be very thick and it wasn't moisturizing enough. It does smell very nice though but not something I would get. rating: *

9. NARD Himalaya Herb Body Wash (100ml/3.38oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: This smells very nice. It has a very earthy and forest kind of scent to it. The formulation of this was quite nice. It lathered well and I feel like it cleansed my skin well without stripping it. rating: **

10. SKINFOOD yuja C Vita Daily Mask (30 masks) source: Skinfood (Korea) thoughts: I really enjoyed using this. I feel like it really helps with my skins moisture levels. I'm definitely more prone to using these when they are out on my counter in a container rather than a bag. I can't wait to use my other ones. I'm really attracted to these daily masks in a tub and also the overnight gel masks as of right now. rating: ***

11. By Wishtrend Green Tea & Enzyme Milky Foaming Wash (140ml/4.73oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: I really like using milky or gel type cleansers, hence I did enjoy using this. My skin didn't feel dry and it felt like it did do a good job of cleansing. The only thing that I don't like is the design of the bottle. The product dispenses well however the tip always has a dried/harden part of the product which annoys me a little as I really have to mush that bit to make it into a better consistency. This took me 170 days to finish and I used it twice a day. rating: ***

12. Skin & Lab Clean & Easy Blemish Spot Patch (54 patches) source: YesStyle thoughts: These have two sizes in them. You get 2 sheets of the 10mm with 15 on each sheet and 2 sheets of the 12mm with 12 on each sheet. The concept of these for the application are nice as they are quite thin. They have a step 1 and 2 sticker on top of the patch for easier application. But I found that it didn't always peel properly. Good thing is that the sheet itself still has like a perforated tear so you can just peel off the step guide and then peel the patch off from the sheet. These work just the same as any other spot patch. I still personally like my G9 Skin ones as they are all one size, since I rarely break out in places where the small sizes would be required. rating: **

13. Jo Malone Nectarine Blossom & Honey Cologne source: sample thoughts: This has always been my favourite scent from Jo Malone since I discovered the world of perfume and fragrances. I have mentioned before that I do gravitate towards citrus scents more but I don't mind this floral scent at all, as this is light. I really do enjoy Jo Malone scents as they are light and layer-able. I never got around to purchasing a full size of this as it is quite expensive plus I do want to go through my collection before buying any new ones. rating: **

14. Petitfee Super Seed Lip Oil (3g/0.1oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: I really like this, especially the applicator. I like that it's a plastic applicator and not like the doe foot. Cause the applicator doesn't get as dirty/ sticky as you use it more. As for the formulation, it's not sticky and it absorbs quickly. I do feel like its moisturizing but not as good as the one by Clarins and the one I'm currently using, by Hince. I feel like this one would be better for the warmer months as it's lighter than the Clarins and Hince ones. This smells like honey which is very nice. rating: ***

15. hersteller Wonder Veggie Juicy Treatment Essence (150ml/5.07oz) source: Jolse thoughts: I really like the ingredients in this as it contains some really good ingredients. This essence is said to be made up of 90% kale extract which helps improve skin strength with a slightly acidic formula. I feel like this was quite hydrating and that it did a good job of maintaining my skin condition. I definitely prefer something a little thicker at night rather than having to layer a thin essence multiple times to achieve the hydration I need. I used this at night, patting this into my skin 3 times. I finished this in 118 days. I really enjoyed the Wonder Veggie line by hersteller, but probably would not repurchase again as there are other products that are similar for around the same price point. There wasn't much of a scent to it, very clean and fresh. rating: **

16. Carenology95 Be:Fine The AC Spot Treatment (10g/0.35oz) source: Jolse thoughts: This has been my all time favourite spot treatment. I see results even if it is slow. Especially if you're consistent with it you'll definitely notice a difference. But this is getting harder and harder to find. rating: *HOLY GRAIL!*

17. Huxley Conditioning Mask: One Moment (5 sheets) source: YesStyle thoughts: I haven't used Huxley products in a while and the scent of the mask really brings me back. I really like using Huxley's oil essence and especially the scent just gives me a sense of calm. I just checked all my usual sites and it seems like they no longer sell Huxley products, but you can still find it if you do a google search. However, the price might be higher now compared to before. And sadly when I went to Korea the store was closed on that day of the week, so I couldn't check out the products nor stock up on certain items. But I really enjoyed using these masks as it provided a really good amount of hydration. rating: ***

[vanityfairness]

January & February 2025 Empties

* = disliked the product - would not repurchase ** = liked the product - would not repurchase *** = liked the product - might or might not repurchase **** = loved the product - would repurchase *HOLY GRAIL!*

1. Medicube Soyxidil Shampoo (490ml/16.56oz) & 2in1 Treatment (265ml/8.96oz) source: Medicube thoughts: This shampoo lathers very nicely and a little goes a long way. My hair did feel clean and nice without being too stripping. But it's not a shampoo that I would go out of my way to get again. It has not helped with my scalp condition either. As for the treatment, I do not like it. It stung my scalp badly especially when it was at its worst condition and very exposed. I also feel like it took forever to rinse out. Also the applicator wasn't the best as I hardly felt the product come out so often times I would be dispensing more than I needed. rating: **

2. Sulwhasoo First Care Activating Serum (60ml/2.02oz) source: Gift thoughts: I do like using this a lot and I also get a lot of deluxe sample sizes from purchasing the creams for my mom. I don't really see much difference in my skin but it is definitely hydrating. rating: ***

3. IsNtree Yam Root Vegan Milk Toner (200ml/6.76oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: I really enjoyed using this toner. It was especially nice during the colder months as it provided a good amount of hydration. This took me about 4 months to finish and I was using it day and night. rating: ***

4. LAGOM Cellus Sun Gel+ SPF50+ PA++++ (40ml/1.35oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: This was a sunscreen that I really enjoyed using. It wasn't too thin and it absorbed easily. It does have a slight scent that smells like centella asiatica. It is a very light sunscreen without any white cast. rating: ***

5. mude true eyelash serum (8g/0.28oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: This has been my go-to eyelash serum the past few years. I do see results but as I've been using it more I feel like my eyes are getting a little irritated. I do want to try other eyelash serums as this one was never one that I truly liked it was just one that I was able to find that did not have hyaluronate acid or a derivative. rating: ***

6. Daewoo Easy Derm Quick Calming Magnesium Patches (6 patches) source: Pharmacy in South Korea thoughts: I really like using these patches with the microneedles. I find that it helps with reducing the inflammation/bump. These were quite expensive though. I believe these were 10,000 won for 6 patches. On Amazon I do see a pack of 20 for about $37 but I'm not sure if they work the same. It does look the same just American packaging. rating: ***

7. Mediheal Retinol Collagen Lifting Pad (100pads) source: T&T Supermarket thoughts: I really had a hard time getting through these. I didn't really like these, I feel like these didn't do anything. The pad itself is like a gauze style, so it didn't really make a good mask. The pad is very flexible so you can stretch it for a better fit if you were to use it as a mask. rating: *

8. Derma B Mandarin Till Dawn Body Lotion (30ml/1oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: This was very nice. It was a light lotion and absorbed easily into the skin. I'm not a big fan of the scent, but I don't mind using it. I'm glad I was able to get a sample sized version to try rather than a big bottle. rating: **

9. Clarins 01 Lip Comfort Oil (7ml/0.2oz) source: Sephora thoughts: I really liked using this. This was my first time trying a lip oil. I use it at night before I go to sleep and I find that it's very hydrating. However, I do find that it's a little sticky compared to the one I'm currently using. And another thing, I'm not a big fan of the applicator as I feel like it just gets stickier over time and doesn't apply the product as nicely. rating: ***

10. Avene Thermal Spring Water (50ml/1.7oz) source: Gift thoughts: I really like using this, especially in the warmer months. I also use this as a setting spray when I do put on makeup. I actually purchased a different brand which is similar but I find that it has a weird scent so I much prefer this one. rating: ***

11. Jo Malone Peony & Blush Suede Cologne source: sample thoughts: This is one of my favourite Jo Malone scents, but I find that Jo Malone scents don't really last. The longevity of the scent is to be expected since it is a cologne. rating: **

12. O HUI Age Recovery eye cream (20ml) source: Part of a kit thoughts: I really like this eye cream as it's moisturizing and spreads easily. It is quite scented, but I don't mind it. rating: ***

13. hersteller Wonder Veggie Hydrating Gel Cream (50ml/1.69oz) source: Jolse thoughts: I really liked this cream. If you have been following along for some time you will know that I love/prefer gel creams over anything. I love how gel creams absorb so well into my skin and I can also layer it as well. I finished this in about 2 months using it once a night. rating: ***

14. Biossance Squalene + Caffine Toning Body Cream (60ml/2.02oz) source: Sephora thoughts: I thought this cream would be really thick when I initially opened it. But as soon as I dipped my hand in it, I couldn't believe how light and thin it was. It absorbed fairly quick and spreads easily. rating: **

15. By Wishtrend Vitamin A-mazing Bakuchiol Body Lotion (6g/0.21oz) source: sample thoughts: This lotion was so bad. It smelt a little funky and it was thick and it didn't absorb well either. The concept of the cream is nice. It's "an overnight body lotion formulated with retinal and bakuchiol. It helps to improve rough, bumpy skin texture, for a smoother surface." I only had the sample to try so I can't really say if it did all that. All I can say is that it felt like there was a coating covering my body after applying the lotion. And the next day when I showered I can feel it, I had to really scrub to remove the residue off. It felt like it never really absorbed into the skin. rating: *

16. Banobagi Milk Thistle Repair Sunscreen (1.5ml/0.05oz) source: sample thoughts: This was also another sample that I did not like. I found it thick and that it didn't absorb that well into the skin. It took some effort to spread and have it absorbed. I also noticed that it was kind of making my skin flake whenever I touched my face. rating: *

17. heimish All Clean Balm (5ml) source: sample thoughts: I actually like this version of the balm more than the Mandarin one. This had like a sorbet-like texture. It's a balm to oil to milk, which I really enjoyed. Because some cleansing balms are more just a balm to milk kind. I felt like it cleansed well without stripping the face as well. rating: ***

[vanityfairness]

November & December 2024 Empties

* = disliked the product - would not repurchase ** = liked the product - would not repurchase *** = liked the product - might or might not repurchase **** = loved the product - would repurchase *HOLY GRAIL!*

1. dear, klairs Daily Skin Softening Water (500ml/16.90oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: I really like how nice and simple this is. I do use this as a toner and sometimes as a spray during the warmer months. This lasts a long time and I was using this day and night. It took me about 8-9 months to finish this. rating: ****

2. hersteller Little Drops Calming Days Ampoule (45ml/1.52oz) source: Jolse thoughts: hersteller products have been on my list of to-try for a long time and I was finally able to find somewhere that had the products. I did enjoy this but it wasn't spectacular enough that I would purchase this again. It works really well with my guasha/face roller though, as this product does contain oils in it. There is a light scent to it but nothing that is too strong. It has a very neutral scent. rating: **

3. Lador Tea Tree Scalp Clinic Hair Pack (200ml/6.76oz) source: YesStyle or Stylevana thoughts: This has been featured in my posts multiple times now. This is my go-to product especially when my scalp is acting up and nothing else seems to work. I still haven't been able to find a routine or products that have really helped. Although this product does work I don't want to be using this all the time. rating: ****

4. O HUI Age Recovery Emulsion (20ml) source: Jolse, part of a kit thoughts: I like how light this is. I did bring this with me on vacation. I have started using the full size version so I would go more in depth when I finish that. So far I am liking it. rating: ***

5. Colgate Elixir Toothpaste: Luminous White (80ml) source: Real Canadian Superstore thoughts: I'm always on a hunt for a good and effective toothpaste, that will help brighten my teeth. I love the concept of this toothpaste and how every drop is pretty much used and that there is not much waste. However, I'm not so sure if I like the formulation of this toothpaste. I would love to try this again in the future. I did use this mainly as my travel toothpaste and I have had it opened for over a year so I don't know if that has anything to do with it being not as good. rating: ***

6. Missha Time Revolution The First Essence 5X (30ml/1.01oz) source: Costco Korea, part of a set thoughts: This leaked on my journey back home, hence I decided to use it. I do like this, and it has been reformulated since the last time I've tried it. I haven't used it for a very long time now. This product use to be on constant rotation for me. It was such a good deal that I decided to buy it even though I didn't really need it. It was 19,900 won at Costco in Korea. You get one full size bottle and 3 miniatures at 30ml each. Typically the full size bottle runs about $30-40 dollars, so I just had to grab it seeing the price. I wanted to get more stuff but the Costco I went to didn't seem to have that much. rating: ***

7. PESTLO ourecipe Oil to Foam Cleanser (30ml/1.01oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: I'm not sure if it's because this has been travelling with me for a while now and has been opened for over a year, but it did smell a bit plasticky to me. But I have also found that a lot of my tube products tend to have like a plastic kind of scent to it especially when it's unscented. I feel like it did a good job at cleansing my skin. But when I was in Korea it did feel like it dried it out a bit. it also says oil to foam but it's more of a gel to foam. I basically used it like a regular cleanser because when I placed it directly on my face it felt like I was tugging on my skin and I had to emulsify it in order for it to spread better. rating: *

8. hersteller Little Drops Calming Days Ampoule Cream (100ml/3.38oz) source: Jolse thoughts: I did enjoy using this cream. It wasn't too thick or thin and it went well with my other products. It has a light scent of calendula, which I don't mind. But definitely not something I would go out of my way to find again. rating: ***

9. The Face Shop Oil Blotting Paper (70sheets) source: The Face Shop thoughts: This is been in my stash for ages and I have finally used it up. I rarely use blotting papers but recently I have noticed that my face has been producing more oil and I can feel it. I think it's because my routine hasn't been moisturizing enough, hence why I'm producing more oils. rating: **

10. G9 Skin AC Solution Clear Spot Patch (60 patches) source: Stylevana thoughts: These are still my favourite pimple patches, as I tend to like using the 12mm sizes most of the time. I just like how it covers more area and that when it absorbs it has more room as well. rating: ****

11. GAP dream Body Mist (50ml / 2oz) source: GAP thoughts: This mist says its "a soft mix of white freesia, orange flower, and pure cloud." I do like it but as you may know I'm not really a floral kind of gal. I did purchase a larger bottle of this a long time ago which has not been opened and I will be selling that or giving it away. i also just checked and GAP doesn't even carry fragrances anymore. rating: **

12. I'm from Silky Body Lotion: Supul (290g / 10.22oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: This has been on my to try since it's been released. However, the only place to purchase it was on the Wishtrend website which had a high free shipping cost and I didn't really want anything else or an excess of all the body care. Thankfully YesStyle started carrying them. I decided to try this one because it also had a body scrub in the same scent plus the scent profile seemed like something I would like. The scent is comprised of grapefruit, peony and labanum. The scent of this is suppose to be a reminder or give you the imagery of "a walk along a secluded creek in the forest, with the scent of fresh grass and fragrant flowers." I do like it as it was light and absorbed quickly into the skin. However, because it was light it didn't really provide that much moisturization especially in the drier colder months. This took me about 4 months to finish. I'm not that great at being consistent with putting body lotion but I am trying to. rating: ***

13. HERA Rejuvenate Ampoule Cream (5ml / 0.16oz) source: Amore Global Mall thoughts: I did purchase the full size of this and will give a more in-depth review when I finish that. But so far I am liking this cream and can't wait to try it on a more regular basis. rating: ***

[vanityfairness]

September & October 2024 Empties

* = disliked the product - would not repurchase ** = liked the product - would not repurchase *** = liked the product - might or might not repurchase **** = loved the product - would repurchase *HOLY GRAIL!*

1. Soohanbang Sooryehan Chunsam Radiant White Emulsion (130ml+15ml) source: Jolse thoughts: I felt this took me forever to finish. I did enjoy it at first but later it got a little tiring. I did use this as a moisturizer except it didn't provide enough moisture, even though it was during the warmer months. I think that's one of the reasons why I didn't really enjoy using it, especially closer to the end of the product. This was very light and watery which is typical for an emulsion. It does have a light floral scent to it. rating: **

2. Soohanbang Sooryehan Chunsam Radiant White Essence (5ml) source: Jolse (Part of a gift set) thoughts: This was definitely nice and light. It definitely goes well with the emulsion. It's hard for me to say if I really like this product as the amount was quite small. rating: ~

3. HYGGEE Natural Repair Serum (30ml / 1oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: I really like how light this is and it provides me with a good amount of hydration. This goes well under makeup as well. It also absorbs quickly without any residue. I think this would be a go-to serum for me if I'm too lazy to find something else. This is also inexpensive. rating: ****

4. Mediheal Vitamin Brightening Pad (100pads) source: T & T Supermarket thoughts: I really am enjoying these toner pads. I love using them as a quick mask rather than using a mask sheet. However, in order to cover my full face I would use about 7-9 sheets. I didn't notice much of a brightening effect but it has definitely helped with hydrating my skin. On the box, it does say its a "daily blemish pad that brightens dull skin and smoothens skin." Like most pad items I did find that the top layers seemed to have less liquid whereas the bottom ones were really saturated. Hence, I'm going to try storing the unused ones upside down to see if that will help saturate the top ones more. I also like that you could buy refills for this except refills are hard to find. I'm not sure if that was the intended purpose of the packaging, but these containers could also be reused for organizing as well. rating: ***

5. mude true eyelash serum (8g / 0.28oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: I have been using this serum for a few years now. I haven't found anything that I really like aside from this so far. It's not my favourite but it works for now. It's also very hard to tell how much product is left in this, I also feel like as there is less product in the tube the coating on the applicator becomes less even. I also feel like this never fully gets used up even if I was using it everyday for 6 months. rating: ***

6. Off & Relax Hot Spring Water Spa Scalp Essence (45ml / 1.5oz) source: T & T Supermarket thoughts: At first this seemed to help with my scalp but overtime it didn't work again. This makes my hair and scalp smell nice though. I almost feel like I need to be changing my routine every so often. I just can't seem to find a routine that works for my scalp aside from washing my hair everyday but I do not want to do that. rating: **

7. innisfree Green Tea Lip Balm (3.6g / 0.12oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: This was okay. I found that this didn't provide me with enough hydration compared to other lip balms that I have tried before. I have also noticed that it has a funky scent to it now. I only have a little left, hence I am discarding it. rating: **

8. Acropass Soothing Q Patches (12 patches) source: YesStyle thoughts: I found these in my stash and noticed that they have expired but they still do soothe itchy spots for me. I do find they work and prevents me from scratching as well. rating: ***

9. atrix Beauty Charge Hand Cream: Peach Tea (80g) source: Tokyo Beauty thoughts: This smells amazing exactly like what it says like peach tea. It's a nice hand cream but its not that moisturizing. It absorbs quickly and does not leave any residue. However, after putting it on a while later I feel like I need more. rating: ***

10. Shiseido Urea 10% Hand & Foot Cream (60g) source: YesStyle or Stylevana thoughts: I really love using this as a foot cream as I find it moisturizing and over time it even helps with cracked skin and any dry spots. rating: ****

11. The Face Shop Herb Day Cleansing Tissue (70 wipes) source: The Face Shop thoughts: I still love using these and they remain as a staple in my stash. rating: *HOLY GRAIL!*

12. LAGOM Cellup Gel to Water Cleanser (170ml/5.74oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: I enjoyed this cleanser. It was simple and goes on the skin well and it emulsifies nicely as well. It didn't dry up my skin, and it felt clean. rating: ***

13. Carenology95 Be:Fine The AC Spot Treatment (10g) source: Jolse thoughts: I really like using this spot treatment for my acne. I find that it helps heal and fade the scars, but it does take time. rating: *HOLY GRAIL!*

14. O HUI Age Recovery Skin Softener (20ml) source: Jolse (part of a set) thoughts: This was nice but did not especially absorb quickly or well into my skin. It made putting on the next step a little difficult as I really had to work the product into my skin to have it fully absorbed. rating: **

15. A'pieu mint scalp hair vinegar (200ml/6.76oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: I have tried a sample of this in the past and it seemed fairly good at the time, hence I decided to purchase a full size to try. I actually didn't really like this. I prefer my Lador Treatment more than this one. I felt like this didn't really help with my scalp condition, but it was definitely cooling. rating: **

Samples used: "I'm from Beet Energy Ampoule" & "Purito Glacto Niasin 97 Power Essence" & heimish Matcha Biome Gel Moisturizer. These were nice but hard to say if they were really good or worked since it only lasted one/few uses.

Throw-Away

1. Laka Soul Vegan Lip Balm: Rosy - This started smelling funky, it is also past it's expiration date plus it was a lip balm that did not glide very nicely if you don't have even lips. Best used on top of another lip balm or something.

2. NEOGEN Extra Volumecurl Metal Maxicara: Black - I bought this cause I saw that people using it were able to create a good curl and coat on, but for me it did not work. I'm not a really make-up kind of gal, so the applicator did not work well for me either as it was a straight applicator. I also bought this because there were refills available instead of constantly buying the whole thing again.

3. peripera Speedy Skinny Brow Mascara: 03 Natural Brown - I do like using brow mascara as it is a quicker process when I do my brows but this one was not good. It does not stay and rubs off really easily. The color was good and the applicator is also angled which makes applying it on to be easy, but other than that the formulation was just a no for me.

4. fresh Sugar Caramel Hydrating Lip Balm - The formulation for this is nice, but I'm just not the type of girl who likes to dip there finger in a pot to apply lip balm. I need some kind of applicator that is attached. The color is also very nice and natural. It also smells amazing.

[vanityfairness]

July & August 2024 Empties

* = disliked the product - would not repurchase ** = liked the product - would not repurchase *** = liked the product - might or might not repurchase **** = loved the product - would repurchase *HOLY GRAIL!*

1. Nard Moisturizing Foot Cream (100ml / 3.38oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: This was okay. It does have like a herbal kind of scent to it which I'm not a fan of. This cream does work very well and I find that my feet do feel very moisturized. rating: **

2. Lador Hydro LPP Treatment (150ml / 5.07oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: This smells very nice and I did enjoy using this. My hair definitely felt more soft and smooth afterwards. I typically use the tea tree hair pack as it helps with my scalp issue. This treatment does say that it's suppose to help with dry and damaged hair as well as helping with treated hair. I can't say I noticed anything since I wasn't constantly using this, as this was on rotation for me. rating: ***

3. Lador Tea Tree Scalp Clinic Hair Pack (200ml / 6.76oz) source: YesStyle or Stylevana thoughts: I have been using these constantly as I find that this has helped my scalp to a certain extent. It definitely has soothed it and at times have stopped the itching. I will definitely be purchasing these still until I find a better routine or something that will help my scalp condition. rating: ****

4. The Face Shop Herb Day Cleansing Tissue (70 wipes) source: The Face Shop thoughts: These are still my all time favourite cleansing tissues for the value and effectiveness. rating:*HOLY GRAIL!*

5. Beauty of Joseon Red Bean Water Gel (100ml/3.38oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: I really enjoyed this, but I did go through this quickly as I used it as a body moisturizer rather than for my face. It felt nice and refreshing on my body. I would consider this product to be an all-in-one. However, there was a bit of a sticky feeling afterwards but it does go away quickly. rating: ***

6. make p:rem Airy light physical sun stick formulated with zinc SPF50+ PA++++ Calming sun stick (20g/0.7oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: This was my first sun stick and I really like this. It was not greasy and it did not leave a white cast. Although I did find it hard to apply if my skin wasn't fully moisturized. I also really like the size and shape of this one, although some areas are a little harder to get into because of the thickness. I have been using sunscreen throughout the year because it is so convenient to apply now. On lazy days, I would just use the sun stick and on other days when I'm not as lazy or I know I would be out in the sun for a long duration I would use a sun cream. rating: ***

7. HYGGEE Natural Repair Serum (30ml/1oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: I actually bought another one of these without realising I already had one in my stash. To my surprise, this was amazing. There isn't really a scent to this and it gives me a good amount of hydration. I have used this under makeup and it has helped with my application so nicely, it makes my skin and makeup look amazing. This is also affordable but I did go through this quite quick. I would say a month to a month and a half. I was used 4 pumps each night. rating: ****

8. Nard Body Lotion (100ml/3.38oz) source: Stylevana from a set thoughts: I'm not sure why but this lotion smells a lot better than the foot cream. This has like a natural forest/woodsy kind of scent to it. It was also very light, plus it absorbs and spreads really well. rating: ***

9. Juice to Cleanse Grain Water Cleansing Oil (20ml/0.67oz) source: Jolse thoughts: This was okay, I'm not the cleansing oil type of person. I prefer a cleansing balm over an oil. This did take me a while to use up. This product definitely didn't appeal to me nor did I really take note of it's effectiveness. rating: ~

10. heimish All Clean Balm: Mandarin (15ml/0.16oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: This had a sorbet like texture and went on smoothly. It did cleanse my make-up off nicely. But I would need to use it more to know. It does say it's a daily cleanser for removing heavy makeup easily, and I'm not a heavy makeup user so it's hard to say. But I will test it out again when I do do a makeup day. rating: ~

11. Christophe Robin Regenerating Mask with Rare Prickly Pear Seed Oil (50ml/1.7oz) source: Sephora Point Redemption thoughts: This smells amazing but I feel like my scalp doesn't really like this product all too much. It would like it only if I use it like once a month or so. A little goes a long way, and it does take a bit of effort to wash it out. But afterwards my hair would feel so soft and smooth, plus smelling amazing. rating: **

12. COSRX Master Patch: Basic (90 patches) source: YesStyle thoughts: These were the newer patches that Cosrx came out with when I purchased them and I have finally finished the pack. These were thick which I did not like. This pack only contains the 12mm sized patches which is what I like using but I still like my G9 Skin the best still. These do work like any other pimple/spot patch but I just don't like the thickness of these. rating: **

13. Curesys Heartleaf Acpair Spot Patch (90 patches) source: YesStyle thoughts: These were super thin and they stayed on really well. I had a massage and I forgot about it and it didn't even come off when the masseuse was doing the routine. These patches didn't really do much for me, but it does help keep the exposed area clean and reduces bacteria from going in. These patches came in 2 sizes the 10mm and 12 mm, 54 and 36 patches respectively. rating: ***

14. Sulwhasoo Time Treasure Invigorating Eye Serum (25ml/0.84oz) source: Jolse thoughts: I really enjoyed using this and with the little massager/ applicator made it even more enjoyable. It's nice that there were also instructions along with it. This took me 280 days to finish and I was using this every night using two pumps each night. This is expensive and I feel like it didn't really do much for me but it was definitely nice. It was light and not too thick, so it did absorb quickly. rating: ***

[vanityfairness]

May & June 2024 Empties

* = disliked the product - would not repurchase ** = liked the product - would not repurchase *** = liked the product - might or might not repurchase **** = loved the product - would repurchase *HOLY GRAIL!*

1. Sooryehan Chunsam Radiant White Cream (10ml) source: Jolse (part of a kit) thoughts: This was nice and light. It absorbs and spreads easily and quickly. However, I'm not a big fan of the scent. rating: **

2. Yehwadam plum flower revitalizing cream (10ml) source: The Face Shop (part of a kit) thoughts: The scent of this is quite strong and floral. I'm not a big fan of floral scented things so this did not appeal to me. The cream was also pretty thick, it would be a good cream for the colder months. I did use this on my body as this does contain sodium hyaluronate. rating: *

3. Huxley Secret of Sahara Conditioning Pad: Every Moment (60pads) source: YesStyle thoughts: I really like the scent of Huxley products. These pads were thicker than the Mediheal Toner Pads. The pads were full of product which was nice as it also transfers when I wipe my face. I typically use these as a quick masks rather than toner pads. When I used these as toner pads I found that a lot of the product does get released and then I end up having to pat my face to have it fully absorb. Overall they are very nice but I believe they don't really make these any more. rating: ***

4. Versace Bright Crystal Eau De Toilette source: n/a thoughts: This is a scent that I do really like but have never ended up purchasing. I really like it, but it is a bit floral as well and I tend to like fruity scents more. It's a very sweet and romantic scent. rating: ***

5. Tony Moly Premium Black Tea London Classic Cream (50ml / 1.69oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: I really enjoyed using this cream. I do like the Black Tea London Classic line by Tony Moly. So far I've tried this and the serum which have been really nice. I finished this in 95 days using it every night. rating: ***

6. Tosowoong SOS Teeth Whitening Glow Clinic Toothpaste (100g) source: Stylevana thoughts: I read reviews on this and it seemed mixed. I decided to try this but I don't think this really helped bring a whitening or brightening kind of effect. It also has a weird taste which could be because of the Hydrogen Peroxide. rating: **

7. MediFlower Hand Cream: Torreya (75ml) source: PinknBlossom thoughts: I have tried multiple hand creams by this brand, since I bought a set. The set was really worth the price tag and they aren't bad. This scent was nice as well. It's not a super moisturizing hand cream, but it might be also because these are fairly old. rating: ***

8. Before Purifying Toothpaste: Supermint Whitening (100ml) source: well.ca thoughts: This toothpaste was okay. I still like my David's toothpaste and find that it cleans my teeth better. rating: *

9. Carenology95 Be:Fine The AC Spot Treatment (10g) source: Jolse thoughts: I am still loving this product as I do see results. I haven't found anything else that seems to work better than this one yet. But I have seen that there is a Japanese cream that might be good as well, especially for pimples. rating:*HOLY GRAIL*

10. three ships Radiance Grape Stem Cell + Squalane Day Cream (15ml / 0.5oz) source: n/a thoughts: I wasn't a fan of this. This smelt of plastic, but I have mentioned this briefly before that I do find that samples that come in a tube format seems to have a plastic scent to me. Definitely not a fan of the scent but the cream itself was fine. It did feel heavy for me as I tend to gravitate towards thinner creams, because I do prefer layering products. rating: *

11. Tony Moly Premium Black Tea London Classic Serum (50ml / 1.69oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: This is my second time purchasing this serum. I really like this, as it's very light and absorbs quickly. I also like that it contains 100% pure black tea ferment extract. I used this every night and finished this product in 70 days. I typically use 4 pumps worth sometimes 3. rating: ****

12. Mentholatum lipIce: Lemon source: YesStyle thoughts: This lip balm is really nice and glides on smoothly. However, the bottom part where you would twist to move the product up is very loose. So a lot of times the balm has hit the top and I had lost a lot of the product due to that. But this lip balm is moisturizing and I believe it has spf15 as well. rating: ***

[vanityfairness]

March & April 2024 Empties

* = disliked the product - would not repurchase ** = liked the product - would not repurchase *** = liked the product - might or might not repurchase **** = loved the product - would repurchase *HOLY GRAIL!*

1. Shiseido Urea 10% Hand & Foot Cream (60g) source: Stylevana thoughts: I brought this along on my trip to Asia back in the summer of 2023. I really like this as it works for both the hands and feet. It is very moisturizing and it makes my feet nice and soft. I do like the red one as well but that one is more so just for hands which is also very good but this one is definitely more moisturizing. I haven't seen this one in my local stores but this is available on YesStyle and Stylevana. rating: *HOLY GRAIL*

2. floun carrot blending serum (30ml / 1.01oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: I really liked this serum. It was lightweight and hydrating and I just love how easily it absorbed into my skin. It also leaves a nice cool and refreshing feeling. The only thing I don't really like is the packaging; about half way through it became difficult to pump the product out. I do have a bit left in the container but it's very difficult to get unless you have like a small spoon/ scoop in your stash. Overall I do like how simple the packaging is and I always look forward to using this product. I do want to try other products from this brand as well. I finished this product in 63 days using it every morning. I did purchase my serum on YesStyle but it looks like it's currently out of stock. I don't know if this will come back on YesStyle or not as I do see that they are carrying less products by this brand as time goes by, which makes me sad. This is a really good serum and something I would want to repurchase and really enjoyed using. rating: ****

3. Biossance Squalane + Enzyme Sugar Body Scrub (60ml / 2oz) source: Sephora thoughts: This was okay. I'm glad that I got to try it in a mini size rather than getting a full size. it was nice but if you do remember I'm not a big fan of sugar scrubs as I find that it doesn't give me enough exfoliation. This felt like it would give a good exfoliation at first but it melts really fast upon contact with water unless you have a lot of it on. This is the set I got from Sephora but they do also offer it on the Biossance website. rating: **

4. Mediheal A-zero Shot Trouble Dressing Spot Patch (80 patches) source: Stylevana thoughts: These are 10mm in size and the pack comes with 80 patches. I did not like these at all. They were really thick and I feel like it didn't suck and adhere that well. rating: *

5. Native Deodorant: Sweet Peach & Nectar (75g / 2.65oz) source: Native thoughts: I do really like Native deodorants. They have nice scents and I do find that it works. I do feel a bit sad when I finish one sometimes as some of the scents are limited edition and usually they don't reproduce them again, but this scent is one of their regulars. I feel like I have been using this for a really long time. I do notice that the scent is no longer as strong as when I first used it. I can say it has been a few years, I feel like I might had purchased this back in 2022 or maybe earlier. I do wish that they would offer the travel size versions on their website. When the site first started they did offer a travel size as a freebie and also the option to purchase a travel size for a few dollars if I remember correctly. You can buy travel sized versions at certain drug stores but they can be hard to find. i think Target was the place that I saw that had the most selection of scents for the travel size versions. Here in Canada I typically only can find the Vanilla & Coconut version. rating: ***

6. O HUI Age Recovery soft animo foam (45ml) source: Jolse thoughts: I really enjoyed using this. It foamed and cleansed well without stripping my face. This was definitely great during the colder months. It is a cream type of cleanser and it does also have a scent but not something I mind. This lasted about 3 months with me using it twice a day. I did get this in a set. I sometimes do wish that cleansers came in this size, as I found it to be the perfect amount and size for a seasonal trail. rating: ***

7. Juice to Cleanse Powder Wash (10 pieces) source: Jolse thoughts: I really enjoyed using this. I did find that one packet contained quite a bit of powder for one wash. I feel like 1 packet could be split into 2-3 uses, but of course it would be hard to set aside since the product is in a packet. I found that it cleansed and exfoliated the face quite well. I mainly brought this along on my travels so that I could still stick to my skincare routine of exfoliating twice a week. rating: ***

8. Derma B Body lotion: Mandarin Till Dawn (30ml / 1.01oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: I'm not sure how I feel about this scent. It does have the scent of mandarin mixed with a kind of woodsy-like scent. The cream itself is nice and light. It spreads and absorbs nicely into the skin without much effort. rating: ***

9. Briogeo Scalp Revival (236ml / 8oz) source: Sephora thoughts: This was okay. It smelt nice and I find that it did kind of cleanse my scalp. It did help with my flaky scalp, as I did notice that my scalp was less itchy when I had this in my routine. I used it once a week. The only thing that I don't really like is that it's hard to determine if you really have washed everything out, however I do shampoo a second time. rating: ***

10. The Face Shop Herb Day Cleansing Tissue (70 wipes) source: The Face Shop thoughts: Once again I finished a pack. These are a staple and are always in my stash. This is probably the product that I have used the longest and on a consistent basis, compared to everything else. rating: *HOLY GRAIL*

11. Watercolors Intense Shampoo: Lilac (250ml / 8.5oz) source: Forme Hair Salon thoughts: I purchased this when I got my hair bleached 2 years ago. It's suppose to help retain the color longer. I feel like it did help for a bit, but eventually it just became kind of brassy. The concept was nice but I didn't feel like it worked for my dark black hair. rating: **

12. Function of Beauty Shampoo (473ml / 16oz) source: Function of Beauty thoughts: I've had this in my stash for a really long time. I can't even remember what formulation I chose for this one or what it was suppose to do. I did mix this with the Watercolors Intense Shampoo as my hair stylist suggested I do 1:1 when using the Intense Shampoo. I actually had another set of these which I ended up giving away as I found that it didn't work for my scalp condition. rating: *

13. Hakugen Iiyutabidachi Turbid Open-Air Spa Inn (12 packets) source: T&T Supermarket thoughts: I really did enjoy the scents of these. The scents made it a nice way to end the night for a relaxing effect. I find that this brand has a stronger scent and less affective on relieving the body but more so the mind. My least favourite one was probably the Green one but overall not bad. rating: ***

14. Tatcha Forest Awakening Hinoki Body Milk (132ml / 4.5oz) source: Sephora thoughts: This was a very light weight cream as well as lightly scented. It goes on so smoothly and absorbs quickly into the skin without much effort. The packaging is also very nice and looks lovely on the vanity. I feel like there may be a good dupe for this, as this is expensive for the amount you get. I do really like the texture of this though, plus I like that it does contain squalene. rating: ***

[vanityfairness]

February 2024 Empties

* = disliked the product - would not repurchase ** = liked the product - would not repurchase *** = liked the product - might or might not repurchase **** = loved the product - would repurchase *HOLY GRAIL!*

1. belif Problem Solution Moisturizer (125ml / 4.22oz) source: The Face Shop thoughts: This was a very light moisturizer which I really enjoyed. This took me 285 days to finish using it every morning. I used about 2-3 pumps each time. rating: ***

2. Medicube Soyxidal Shampoo (490ml / 16.56oz) source: Medicube thoughts: I enjoyed using this shampoo and it smells wonderful. However, I don't think it helps with my scalp condition but it works great when I use it as my first or second cleanse shampoo. rating: ***

3. Medicube Soyxidal 2in1 Treatment (265ml / 8.96oz) source: Medicube thoughts: I wasn't a fan of this. At times this would sting my scalp especially if I have an open wound from scratching. I also find that this product needs to be rinsed out a lot. It is also hard to sense how much gets dispensed out. It did make my hair feel nice and soft though. rating: **

4. Amore Pacific Vintage Single Extract Essence (70ml / 2.3oz) source: Nordstrom thoughts: I actually don't find that this does too much for my skin compared to some other products. This does give a good amount of hydration but other than that I feel like I could get something better for a fraction of the cost. I finished this in 117 days using it once a night. rating: **

5. Soohanbang Sooryehan Chunsam Radiant White Toner (130ml+15ml) source: Jolse thoughts: This does have a fragrance to it. I did have to get use to the scent, it has a light floral scent to it. The toner was moisturizing and I used quite a few pumps each time. I finished this in 54 days using it day and night. rating: **

6. DHC Flavoured Moisture Lip Cream: Honey (1.5g) source: Japan thoughts: I heard that this lip balm is very popular and decided to pick one up while I was there. I didn't find this to be that moisturizing compared to other lip balms I've tried. I found it to be a bit hard and I found it to feel heavy on the lips as well. rating: *

7. Kracie Tabinoyado Hot Spring Clear Bath Salts (15pcs) source: T & T Supermarket thoughts: I really enjoyed these. I do like the clear one more so than the other versions so far. rating: ***

8. Carenology95 BE:FINE The AC Spot Treatment (10g) source: Jolse thoughts: This is my favourite spot treatment. I do see results and I do find my trouble spots fading especially if I'm constantly using it. I always have this in my stash now. I do go through these quite a bit and I bring this everywhere I go now. rating: *HOLY GRAIL*

9. The Face Shop the therapy vegan blending cream (60ml / 2oz) source: The Face Shop thoughts: I actually enjoyed using this cream this time around. It definitely was a cream that was better for the colder months rather than in the warmer months. This cream does have refills the last time I checked so you would just need to fill the inner portion of the packaging. I finished this in 106 days using it every night. It's a nice cream but I don't think I would get it again. rating: **

10. Yehwadam plum flower revitalizing toner (32ml / 1.08oz) source: The Face Shop thoughts: This toner is very fragrant and for me I find it too strong. I got this from a set I purchased which came with the serum and now I'm a bit hesitant to use it, since the scent is so strong. The toner itself wasn't bad and in fact was very hydrating. This is definitely not something I would get again, due to the scent. rating: **

[vanityfairness]

January 2024 Empties & Throw Away

* = disliked the product - would not repurchase ** = liked the product - would not repurchase *** = liked the product - might or might not repurchase **** = loved the product - would repurchase *HOLY GRAIL!*

1. Carenology95 Re:Blue Cleansing Gel Balm (1.5ml 0.05oz) source: sample thoughts: I actually kind of liked this. The texture of this is just like what it claims, a gel balm. I did enjoy this but I definitely would probably use this more so in the warmer months when I tend to double cleanse. rating: ***

2. Teaology Green Tea Detoxing and Reshaping Bath Salts (50g / 1.07oz) source: Hudson Bay Company thoughts: This was very nice but very messy as the green tea leaves are just loose and floating. I probably should have put the bath salts into like a tea bag so the tea leaves won't make as much of a mess. Aside from that the overall product was very nice and my body felt relaxed and refreshed. rating: **

3. Round Lab Mugwort Calming Cleanser (2ml) source: sample thoughts: This was a nice cream cleanser, but I wasn't a fan of the scent. I have found that I'm not a fan of mugwort scented items. Overall, this cleanser was nice and it felt like it did a good job of cleansing. rating: **

4. Purito From Green Deep Foaming Cleanser source: sample thoughts: I can't really remember how this cleanser was, but it was okay nothing really stood out to me that I could remember. It was also a cream type of cleanser. rating: **

5. The Face Shop Herb Day Cleansing Tissue (70 wipes) source: The Face Shop thoughts: These are still my favourite wipes and for the price as well. I haven't found cleansing wipes that are as good as these for a decent price. I usually stock up around the end of year or mid year when they have the big sales. I tend to go through 3-4 packs of these in a year but I will give an update on that next year as I'm thinking of doing a what I've finished for the year post. rating: *HOLY GRAIL*

6. Farmstay Aloe Vera Moisture Soothing Gel (300ml / 10.14oz) source: PinknBlossom thoughts: I've had this in my stash for a while now. This did expire in December 2023 but I decided to finish it anyways because there wasn't much left. For the colder months this was very nice as it provided a good amount of moisture for my body. In the warmer months, it did feel a little sticky but it was very soothing and cooling. It's good and is an inexpensive product. I think I got it for about $5 CAD or less. rating: ***

7. L'Occitane Lavande Moisturizing Hand Lotion (300ml / 10.1oz) source: L'Occitane thoughts: I did start using this as a hand lotion at first but then started to use it as a foot cream. This was not good as a foot cream nor hand cream. I noticed that my hands and feet started experiencing a lot of shedding or peeling. I know this because once I started noticing it more I decided to switch to another cream and it stopped. I don't know if it was because this cream is kind of old and has gone bad or it was generally like this for my skin. I did get this back in 2020, as for how long it's been opened I'm uncertain but I would say its been at least 2 years. rating: *

8. mixsoon Panax Ginseng Root Essence (100ml / 3.3oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: This was the second item I tried by mixsoon. This was okay, nothing really stood out to me. This is very liquid and I used it every morning. I finished this in 102 days, roughly 3 months. I do like this a little more than the bean essence but I didn't notice any difference to my skin. The brand for me is okay, its good if you're someone looking for a more vegan alternative to certain ingredients. This does smell like ginseng and says it's 100% ginseng essence which I don't know how true it is considering the expiration date. Unless there was a special process that makes it lasts longer. It's a little questionable. rating: **

9. skinfood All Day Berry Sun: More Safe SPF50+ PA++++ (50g / 1.76oz) Source: Jolse thoughts: This had a very liquid texture and it did give a white cast. I used this as a body sunscreen. I did find it a bit sticky but it did give a good amount of coverage. Usually skinfood items have a very nice scent to it, however this just smelt like a typical sunscreen to me. I thought it would have some sort of berry scent but it did not. Looks like they renamed and relaunched this line of sunscreen and have repackaged and possibly reformulated these as well. I did purchase this back in 2021. rating: *

Throw-Away

Most of these products are expired and old or something that I no longer use anymore.

essence extreme SHINE top coat

Dashing Diva Core Serum I've used this but did not notice any difference to my nail or cuticles.

Saje safe hands antimicrobial hand lotion

Ouai Dry Shampoo Foam

Labiotte Wine Perfume Bar: Fine Fever

Marc Jacobs Highliner Gel Eye Crayon: In The Buff

Shiseido Eyelash Serum

Fruits & Passion The vert eau de toilette

moonshot Micro Settingfit Cushion SPF50+ PA+++ Refill: 201 I'm sad that this expired as this is one of my favourite foundation/cushion that I use.

Skinfood Black Sugar Mask Wash Off x2

A'pieu Mulberry Blemish Clearing Ampoule & Cream x2

Etude House Drawing Show Dot Liner: BK801

moonshot Powder Fixer Special Edition 202 SPF27, PA++ I bought this on a whim because it was limited edition with Lisa from Black Pink's signature on it. I've opened it but have never used it as I typically don't wear makeup. I'm just ready to let go of this as it does not serve any purpose and it's just taking up space.

tarte Amazonian Clay 12-hour Blush: paaarty

Aritaum Sugarball Cushion Cheek Color: No.3 & No.5 These were my favourite blushes and they still are. However these are very old and have also passed their expiration dates. I believe I got them back in 2017 & 2018 and they have been expired since 2021. I just couldn't let these go as these were so good and I absolutely love them. But seeing as I can't really use them I have decided to let them go so I can make room for new things.

Troiareuke ACSEN A+ Healing Cushion SPF 50+ PA++++ This is another favourite cushion of mine. However, it has expired and also it is expensive but the finish I get from this is really nice. It makes my face look flawless and glassy. I feel like the color 21 may be a bit light for me and that's why I haven't been using it. I did purchase this limited edition one which I am now ready to let go as it's very scratched up and I believe it came like that as well.

[vanityfairness]

November & December 2023 Empties

* = disliked the product - would not repurchase ** = liked the product - would not repurchase *** = liked the product - might or might not repurchase **** = loved the product - would repurchase *HOLY GRAIL!*

1. Sulwhasoo Gentle Cleansing Foam (50ml / 1.69oz) source: Part of a set thoughts: I've had this in my stash for a while now. I actually really like this cleanser, and if you've been following along you would know that I tend to like a gel or a foam kind of cleanser. I would say this is my go-to cleanser if I just need one and don't wanna try something new or think about one. rating: ****

2. MediFlower Hand Cream: King Cherry Blossom (75ml) source: PinknBlossom thoughts: I have had these in my stash for a while, and these have technically expired according to the date on the packaging. However, these still seem fine to me. I do have one that in unopened still but I am still going through them. I do like these and I find them decent. Plus the pricing of the set for these are very affordable and would make great gifts/stocking stuffers. rating: ***

3. ATrue Violet Petal Black Tea Hydrating Moisturizer (120ml / 4.06oz) source: Jolse thoughts: I really enjoyed this, especially during the warmer months. I did stop using this during the colder months because this wasn't moisturizing enough. I have always wanted to try this brand because it contains black tea. I was finally able to find it. However, I feel like Jolse may have stopped carrying this line, plus I haven't really been able to find it anywhere else for a decent price. It is a little bittersweet as I would probably have repurchased from this brand again. I did like the products that I have tried from this brand. rating: ****

4. Tatcha The Dewy Skin Cream (10ml / 0.34oz) source: Sephora Birthday Gift thoughts: I found this to be really thick and kind of oily for my skin. it definitely worked better for me in the colder months as it is dryer. I think this is a great cream for people who have dry skin but for me it's a no, as I'm more of a combination skin type. Even the packaging says it's for dry skin. rating: **

5. elmt Gentle Exfoliating Solution (150ml / 6.07oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: This is the second toner I have tried from elmt. I didn't like this one as much as the other one, Illuminating, I've tried before. I do like the ingredients in this toner, as it does contain a lot of exfoliating ingredients. I finished this in 51 days using it day and night. rating: ***

6. Kahi Wrinkle Bounce Multi Balm (9g) source: n/a thoughts: I first saw this in a drama and have constantly seen it everywhere. I do like this item. The product itself is long lasting and it works well as a base for makeup or even as a highlight. I used it mainly as a replacement for my eye cream, and at times I would use it to give my skin an extra boost of moisture. raintg: ***

7. Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun: Rich + Probiotics SPF50+ PA++++ (50ml) source: Stylevana thoughts: I got this as so many influencers have raved about it. I didn't find it to be that great, plus the scent of this was kind like plastic. This does have a good consistency and I didn't notice a white cast. For me this was a no. rating: *

8. Shiseido Eyelash Serum (6g) source: YesStyle thoughts: This was not bad, but I definitely liked a comb applicator more. I didn't really notice much of a difference to my lashes compared to my mude one. rating: **

9. Kracie Tabinoyado Hot Spring Smooth Bath Salts (13 packets) source: T & T Supermarket thoughts: I do really like these bath salts. They are very convenient and they smell lovely. I can't recall how this one went but I do have a few variants of it and I do like them. rating: ***

10. Lador Tea Tree Scalp Clinic Hair Pack (200ml / 6.76oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: I really like this as it does help soothe my scalp. If you have been following along here you will know that I tend to always have this in my stash for the past year. I do go through these quite often but I'm also trying to find something that I can use as a conditioner but also help with my scalp. rating: ****

11. Davids premium natural toothpaste: herbal citrus peppermint (149g / 5.25oz) source: well.ca thoughts: I have tried all of David's toothpaste, aside from their newest watermelon addition. I would have to say I like the charcoal one the most as I do see my teeth being brighter/whiter. rating: ***

12. Sol de Janeiro Bom Dia Body Scrub (220g / 7.8oz) source: Sephora thoughts: Surprisingly, I finished this scrub in 7 months. Typically a body scrub takes over a year to finish, since I'm only using it 1-2 times a week. i bought this because it contained crushed maracuja seeds and I thought the texture would be similar to my all time favourite scrub, which is now out of production. This was okay I did like the texture and the ingredients in this. However, I still found it a bit too gentle for me as a physical exfoliator. But this product is kind of something that is in the middle. Since it has both chemical and physical properties of an exfoliator. rating: ***

13. heimish Matcha Biome Amino Acne Cleansing Foam (30g / 1.05oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: This was okay, I did find it a bit drying but overall a good cleanser. I finished this in 48 days using it day and night. rating: **

14. Carenology95 Re:blue Facial Cleanser (1.5ml / 0.05oz) source: sample thoughts: I don't know what to think about this. This has like a marine kind of scent to it. It was okay not something I enjoyed using as the scent wasn't very pleasing to me. This was a cream cleanser and if you have been following me you would know that I do prefer gel or like a bubble kind of cleanser more. rating: *

15. Skin1004 Madagascar Centella Poremizing Deep Cleansing Foam (1.5ml) source: sample thoughts: I didn't really like this one. It had a weird scent to it. It's hard to say if this helped with minimizing my pores as I only got 2 days use out of the sample. Plus with most skin care items you would have to use it for a longer duration to know if the product is effective or not. rating: *

[vanityfairness]

September & October 2023 Empties

* = disliked the product - would not repurchase ** = liked the product - would not repurchase *** = liked the product - might or might not repurchase **** = loved the product - would repurchase *HOLY GRAIL!*  

1. Skinfood Black Sugar Perfect Bubble Foam (200ml) source: Jolse thoughts: I really like using a foam/ bubble cleanser. I just like how effortless it is to get a lather compared to using a gel or a regular cleanser. This was a very light and gentle cleanser and I find that it does a good job at cleansing. However, towards the end I noticed that the scent of brown sugar was a lot more concentrated which I didn't really like and also the foam came out more as a liquid rather than a foam. My solution to the problem was to shake the solution before dispensing, that helped with it coming out as a foam rather than a liquid. Overall, this was nice. I used this both during the day and night and finished this in 207 days. This cleanser definitely lasted a long time. I find that cleansers typically last a long time hence I do like to buy travel size ones to test out from time to time, even travel size ones lasts at least a month or so. rating: ***

2. Huxley Secret of Sahara Oil Essence; Essence-Like, Oil-Like (30ml / 1.01oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: I always go back to this when I need something like a serum or essence in my routine, or even just to make free shipping. This is just something I really like to use and it never really disappoints me. However, it's not something that I always have to have in my stash that is why it's not a holy grail for me. During the warmer months it definitely helps achieve the glass skin look. I used this only at night and finished this in 49 days using 2 droppers worth each night. rating: ****

3. Carenology 95 Be:Fine The AC Spot Treatment (10g) source: YesStyle thoughts: I absolutely love this spot treatment. I had a different one in the past by the brand By Wishtrend but they had discontinued the one that I was using, hence I had to find another one. On my search, I discovered this spot treatment. I saw results overnight, whether in reduction of size or just the color fading. I found that when I was constantly putting it on a acne scar it did lighten faster compared to usual. Plus any popped pimples went away within a week. I just absolutely love this. However, this is 'out of stock' on YesStyle but I have a feeling YesStyle may not carry anymore. I did find it on Jolse and will be stocking up on it the next time I see it on sale or there's a promotion for free shipping. This does have a slight herbal kind of scent to it, which I don't mind it but some people may. I bring this on all my trips I go on now. rating: *HOLY GRAIL!*  

4. Dr. Jart+ Cryo Rubber with Firming Collagen Mask source: Gift thoughts: I was given this as a gift. This was nice but I wasn't a fan of the mask. The mask kept on slipping, which is hard for me as I like to be doing things while wearing a mask or be sitting up. This is definitely a mask that is better for use when you are lying down. My face felt really moisturized the next morning which was a plus. rating: **

5. The Face Shop Herb Day Cleansing Tissue (70 wipes) source: The Face Shop thoughts: If you have been following along here you'll know that these are my favourite and go-to cleansing wipes. I just love this and the scent is pleasing. Plus if you catch the promotions at The Face Shop the price becomes very resonable. rating: *HOLY GRAIL!*

6. daymellow Galactomy Bakuchiol Serum (30ml / 1.01oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: I heard that bakuchiol was a more natural retinol, hence I decided to give this a try. A lot of products on the market that has bakuchiol right now does contain hyaluronic acid so it was hard to find something without it. I have never heard of this brand before but this wasn't bad. I didn't notice much of a difference to my skin but I do like the ingredient list of this product, plus it contains 95% galactomyces which is amazing. I might see more results if I was to use this for a longer duration, but this took a really long time to get. I even once ordered it off Stylevana only to have the item get cancelled on me. This does have an interesting scent not something I can really smell for a long duration, but the scent does dissipate quickly. I finished this in 36 days using it every night. rating: ***

7. IOPE Bio Intensive Essence/ Lotion Tonique (168ml / 5.68oz) source: Marshalls thoughts: I haven't used IOPE in a long time. This was one of the brands that was also all the hype back when k-beauty first started popping up. This really reminds me of the Missha treatment essence and also a few other essences which have similar packaging. I do like using this but there are so many on the market that are very similar. There isn't much of a scent to this and I do find this moisturizing. I was able to find mine at quite a good price at Marshalls in the States when I went, that I bought 2 bottles. I finished this in 145 days using it every morning. rating: ***

8. Lador Anti-Dandruff Shampoo (530ml / 17.9oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: This was a shampoo that was on rotation in my hair care routine. This was okay but I think I like my Medicube shampoo more compared to this. I didn't find that it helped with my scalp/ dandruff issue, but it was decent. rating: **

9. goodal Vegan Rice Milk moisturizing cream (70ml) source: YesStyle thoughts: I remember trying a sample of this and thought it was pretty good, hence I bought the full size to try it out. I actually didn't enjoy using this as much as I thought I would. It was a good cream but I didn't find it moisturizing enough for me. I used it every night and finished it in 138 days. rating: **

10. elmt Skin Illuminating Solution (150ml / 5.07oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: This brand has always been on my list since I first heard of it, and YesStyle finally started carrying this. I really enjoyed using this and I did see a bit of a brightening effect as I used it more. I also liked how this has a short ingredient list and that the first ingredient is grape water. I probably would repurchase this again once I deplete my stash. I finished this in 43 days using it day and night, as a toner on a cotton pad. rating: ***

[vanityfairness]

July & August 2023 Empties

* = disliked the product - would not repurchase ** = liked the product - would not repurchase *** = liked the product - might or might not repurchase **** = loved the product - would repurchase *HOLY GRAIL!*  

1. Kracie Tabinoyado Hot Spring Milky Bath Salts (13 pouches) source: T & T Supermarket thoughts: This does have a more herbal kind of scent to it and as the name says it does make your water milky. I did enjoy these but I’m not sure if I would get this one again. But I do like this brand of bath salts. rating: ***

2. The Face Shop Herb Day Cleansing Tissue (70 wipes) source: The Face Shop thoughts: Still one of my favourite products and holy grail! I always get these when they are on sale. Usually around the end of the year.  rating:  *HOLY GRAIL!*  

3. Juice to Cleanse Water Wash Balm (100g / 3.52oz) source: Jolse thoughts: I think this has been my favourite cleansing balm so far. I just like how easily it spreads and it worked well for what I needed, without stripping my face; plus it smells nice. I definitely didn’t use this daily as it lasted me a whole year. I mainly used it during the warmer months when I’m constantly wearing sunscreen and possibly sweating. rating: ***

4. Thank You Farmer Back to Iceland Peeling Cream (150ml / 5.27oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: Exfoliators tend to last a long time for me as I don’t use a lot plus I use it mainly twice a week. This took me about a year and a half to finish. This was okay but I definitely liked the Dr.Brandt one more that I was using before this. I feel like the Dr.Brandt one did a better job at smoothing out the texture on my skin whereas this one was more like what’s on the surface. Plus I use an exfoliator for such a long duration that I feel like the Dr.Brandt one is worth the price, especially when it works. rating: **

5. Amore Pacific Vintage Single Extract Essence (70ml / 2.3oz) source: Nordstrom Canada thoughts: I just noticed that after purchasing this that not long after they pulled out of the Canadian market. So the only way for me to get this would be to go to the States or get it in Asia. This was nice but I feel like I liked the ATrue black tea essence more which is also really hard to find and get now. My skin did feel nice but I feel like I could achieve the same results with other products as well,. I finished this in 78 days using it only at night. This is almost the same price as the Sulwhasoo First Care Activating serum and the duration of use is roughly the same, and the Sulwhasoo is more accessible for me. rating: ***

6. Davids Premium Natural Toothpaste: charcoal (149g / 5.25oz) source: Well.ca thoughts: This is okay. I’m still purchasing this brand of toothpaste as I do find that it’s consistent for my teeth and the cleaning power. But it is quite pricy. I do want to see if there is anything else aside from this. rating: ***

7. Daily White Whitening Foam (50ml / 1.69oz) source: Mint Smile Bar thoughts: I got this whitening foam/toothpaste from when I got my teeth whitened. I would say the procedure didn’t really do much. I felt like it didn’t really work compared to at home kits which seem to be a little better especially the new Crest one where it is a paste. I found that the Crest paste did a better job although I feel like it was more like a brightening effect rather than a whitening effect. Also I did not like the taste of this, it tasted like hydrogen peroxide and alcohol you get from the drug store. It’s fine as long as it works but it felt more like a mouth wash in a sense. rating: *

8. MediFlower Hand Cream: Joritdae (75ml) source: PinknBlossom thoughts: This was good. I like the size and the cream was pretty good. I really do like this set of hand creams. I am still going through these. rating: ***

9. Sol de Janeiro Bom Dia Bright Cream (240ml / 8oz) source: Sephora thoughts: This was okay. I did find this a little thick and over time I found the scent to be too strong, it was a nice and sweet scent though. I don’t think I would get this again as it is pricy and I feel like I can find something that would be more to my liking eventually. rating: **

10. Soon+ Trouble Expert Treatment Ampoule Drop (15ml) source: Jolse thoughts: This was okay. I mainly purchased this because of the packaging. The cream itself was okay, it wasn’t as effective as my Carenology95 one. The dispenser was amazing until you get about half way through it then it gets very difficult to dispense the product. rating: **

11. Rovectin Skin Essentials Aqua Soothing UV Protector SPF50+ PA++++ (50ml / 1.7oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: I brought this brand new sunscreen along with me on my Asia trip. I only used it like once, and it did have a good consistency but also seems like it was separating. Until I tried to use it again a few days after it was really runny and it didn’t want to mix together no matter how much a shook the product. And when I tried to use it, literally water/ oil came out. I’m pretty sure this wasn’t suppose to be like that, hence I had to trash it. I’m not sure if I would repurchase this to try again or not, but for sure do not bring to a place with severe heat/ high temperatures. rating: ~

12. The Face Shop the therapy vegan blending cream (10ml / 0.33oz) source: The Face Shop thoughts: This cream you have to mix it as it does come in half gel and half cream format in the jar. It kind of reminds me of how I mix aloe with other creams to make it not as thick. This was nice but I don’t think I mixed it that well, cause it wasn’t consistent. It didn’t really go on that well while I was using this on my trip in Asia. I really had to work it in, in order for it to absorb properly. It basically just sat on the surface of my skin. It might be because I didn’t mix it well but I do have the full size so we shall see. But I do feel like this cream is better for the colder months. rating: ***

13. The Face shop the therapy vegan blending toner (32ml / 1.08oz) source: The Face Shop thoughts: This toner was nice and light. It did felt moisturizing. It wasn’t sticky or anything. But I feel like it isn’t as light as other toners but this would be good for the colder months as well. rating: ***

14. Beauty of Joseon Bubble Toner Green Plum + AHA (150ml / 5.07oz) source: Jolse thoughts: This took me a few times to figure out the best way to use this. The instructions on the packaging says to pump 1-2 times onto a cotton pad, but I found that this way didn’t really work. I also tried pumping it onto the cotton pad and then folding the pad to spread the product but that didn’t work either. The best way I found was to pump the product directly onto my face. I really enjoyed using this, but I’m not sure if I like how it is a foam/bubble kind of toner. It definitely does stretch the duration of the use making the toner into a bubble format. The formulation was nice as it does contain 3% glycolic acid and it didn’t really sting on any open wounds which was nice. I finished this in 87 days using it day and night. I just found out that this is no longer offered in a bubble format but a liquid with some additional ingredients. It is now a AHA and BHA toner. The newer version does contain salicylic acid, which typically dries out my skin so I don’t know if I would get it. rating: ***

[vanityfairness]

May & June 2023 Empties

* = disliked the product - would not repurchase ** = liked the product - would not repurchase *** = liked the product - might or might not repurchase **** = loved the product - would repurchase *HOLY GRAIL!*

1. Dove glowing body wash: mango butter & almond butter (53ml / 1.8oz) source: sample thoughts: I don’t know why but when I first got it for some reason I thought it was a body lotion until recently I discovered that it said body wash. This was a heavily scented body wash, it was nice and hydrating. But not something I would really purchase. rating: **

2. Missha Chogongjin Chaeome Boosting Essence (100ml+15ml / 3.38oz+0.5oz) source: Jolse thoughts: This does have a fragrance to it that I don’t mind but it did take some time getting use to it, since a lot of my products aren’t really scented or only slightly. This was very light and absorbed into the skin quickly. I did find it hydrating but definitely not enough for the colder months. However, it is a great product to layer with others. I finished this product in 130 days using it once a day, but I can’t recall how many pumps I used each time. I don’t think this product is sold anymore but Missha does have many different essences which are very good as well, like their most popular First Treatment Essence. rating: ***

3. fresh Sugar Mint Rush Freshening Lip Treatment (2.2g / 0.07oz) source: Sephora thoughts: I love and hate fresh sugar lip treatments. They are great during the warmer months as they provide enough moisture to the lips and would apply easily because it does get slightly melted/soft in the warmer months. During the colder months though the lip balm itself is more hard so you would need to go over your lips multiple times to get enough moisture. I still haven’t found a good lip balm for my night routine but for my day lip balm I think I may have found the brand that I prefer but that would be elaborated more in the future. I do like the size of this as this size does last a while for me. I also prefer this size compared to the larger ones, because I find the larger ones sometimes gets very gross during the warmer months. rating: ***

4. COSRX AHA BHA Vitamin C Daily Toner (150ml / 5.07oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: I do like this toner because it contains 60% fruit extract which are the first 2 ingredients combined. The ingredients list is also not that long which is something I like. This is a good exfoliating toner, I don’t know if I like this one more or the mandelic acid toner By Wishtrend, as of right now. In the future, I might try both at the same time to see, but I’m certain this toner stung less when I had an open wound. I finished this product in 44 days using it day and night. rating: ***

5. Heynature Erseongcho Water Cream (80g / 2.8oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: I forget sometimes how I’m not a big fan of the scent of Houttuynia cordata (chameleon plant). But this one was bearable compared to the essence or ampoule I tried before. The fragrance was lighter in this cream and the texture of this cream was what I loved most about it. It was light and absorbed into the skin nicely, it also layers nicely. I think that’s why I like using gel/water creams because they are light and if I need more moisture I can always add another layer of the cream or even more layers prior to the cream without it feeling too heavy. I finished this cream in 91 days using it every night. rating: ***

6. Benton Aloe Propolic Soothing Gel (100ml / 3.38oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: I actually purchased this to use as a body moisturizer. However, I didn’t like the texture and how it applied and felt on my skin. So I decided to use this product to dilute another body lotion that I had that I found to be a bit too thick. I definitely think there are better aloe gels compared to this one and more inexpensive based on the quantity you get for the price. rating: *

7. RNW DER. THERAPY Refreshing Scrub to Body Wash (230ml / 7.70z) source: YesStyle thoughts: I was looking for a new body scrub as the one I loved and used before, they no longer make and sell. This seems similar to the one that I use to use so I decided to give this a try. This was okay but I felt like it wasn’t as good as the Jungle Botanics one that I had used in the past. The scent of this is really nice, and so far I think this is probably the closest to the Jungle Botanics because the one I’m currently using also seemed similar but in terms of texture this is the closest.  rating: ***

8. mude true eyelash serum (8g / 0.28oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: This is my second or third time purchasing this, I do like it and find that my lashes do seem to be longer and less fall out as well. The applicator on this is that of a mascara and is curved, which makes applying the serum really easy. I used this product every night. However, around 2 months of using it I do notice that the brush isn’t as nicely coated with the serum anymore. I mean its hard to say how much product is in there still but in the past with roughly the same amount of product I had a lot left over still at the 2 month mark. So I did buy another serum to see if it’s better plus the ingredients on the new one I’m trying speaks to me more compared to this one. But this one was good, it just seems like it dries up/ gets used up quite fast. rating: ***

9. Rich Facial Mask & Bath Powder Set source: Tokyo Beauty Store thoughts: This was okay. I do like the scent of the bath powder because it has a citrusy scent. rating: **

10. Roses de Chloe & DKNY Be Delicious Skin Eau de Toilette source: samples thoughts: The Chloe fragrance definitely isn’t something I like. If you have been following along here for a while you would know that I’m a fan of fruity/citrusy scents, and this was just way too floral for me that at times it would make my head hurt. As for the DKNY one, it was definitely something I would prefer more as it is apple scented. This has been a fragrance I’ve wanted to try for a while and have finally have. I have to say I still prefer citrus scents over everything else.

[vanityfairness]

April 2023 Empties

* = disliked the product - would not repurchase ** = liked the product - would not repurchase *** = liked the product - might or might not repurchase **** = loved the product - would repurchase *HOLY GRAIL!*  

1. The Face Shop Herb Day Cleansing Tissue (70pcs) source: The Face Shop thoughts: I’m still loving these. I just like how it feels and the texture of these cloths. They are very refreshing as well.  rating:*HOLY GRAIL!*  

2. acwell Licorice pH Balancing Cleansing Toner (150ml) source: PinknBlossom thoughts: This brand/ toner was very popular when it first came out. I have always wanted to try it and finally I have. I didn’t find anything too spectacular about it but I did like that it was a balancing toner which worked well with my skin. But of course there are a lot of other toners that do the same thing as well. I used it twice a day and finished it in 62 days. rating: ***

3. Carenology95 Be:Fine The AC Spot Treatment (10g) source: YesStyle thoughts: I came upon this when I was looking for a new spot treatment. This does have a herbal kind of scent to it, but it works. I have seen results after one use and it does fade my scars as well, but with scars it isn’t as obvious. This little tube has lasted me almost a year but of course it depends how often and how much you use. I have bought another one to see if this will truly be a holy grail item or not but right now I am trying out a different spot treatment. rating: ****

4. mixsoon Bean Essence (50ml / 1.6oz) source: Jolse thoughts: This brand has gotten popular and I’ve been hearing about this bean essence for some time. I decided to try and I got to say I’m not a fan. This has a slimy kind of texture to it, it does remind me of Cosrx’s Snail essence. I’m not a fan of this as I didn’t really like the texture nor did I see any difference in my skin. rating: **

5. Physiogel Daily Moisture Therapy Facial Cream (75ml / 2.5oz) source: The Face Shop thoughts: This was pretty good. I feel like it would be good for all skin types. This doesn’t have any frills to it or anything but I feel it is a good cream for a skin reset. I bought this because I saw Minhyuk from CNBLUE use this, and it’s not a bad cream at all. I’ve used this cream every morning and finished it in 140 days. It goes on very nicely and absorbs nicely as well. I’m not sure if The Face Shop still sells this as it’s not on their website anymore but you can get it on amazon. rating: ***

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2022/2023 Stash Clean Out

I decided to do a separate post for this, as I have a lot of expired products and items that I just don’t use or want to use anymore. I will be splitting this into 3 sections: Expired, Expired/Old Products that I Dislike, and Expired/Old Products that I Liked. Expired products are products that I have never opened and just went past their expiration date.

Expired

1. The Face Shop Ink Graffi brush pen liner: 02 Ink Brown 2. the Saem Cover Perfection Tip Concealer: 01 Clear Beige   - This was one of my favourite concealer back in the day. I bought this as backup and never got to using this as I just started using my cushions to conceal as well. This was also very inexpensive and matched my skin tone well. 3. the Saem Cover Perfection Ideal Concealer Duo: 01 Clear Beige   - I bought this because it was the same concealer but had the tip and stick which I thought would be handy, but never got around to using it. 4. celimax Underarms Brightening Pad One Step Body Brightening Pad 5. innisfree Wrinkle Science Spot Treatment Marine Double-Defense 6. Banila Co. sun+fic prime primer 7. 107 beauty Velvet Lift Cream Essence 8. 107 beauty Everyday Plump Hydro Cream 9. 107 beauty Chaga Jelly Low pH Cleanser 10. A’pieu Icing Sweet Bar Sheet Mask: Melon 11. Juicyful Calming Energy Care Sensitive & Calming Mask: Hibiscus 12. Mizon Joyful Time Essence Mask: Green Tea Moisture & Vitality 13. Dr. Jart+ Peeling Solution Masks   - I only used 2 of these and kind of forgot about them. These were okay but I didn’t find that it really “exfoliated” more so chemically, but I saw/felt no difference.

Disliked Expired & Old Products

1. Garnier Fructis Style De-Constructed Beach Chic Texturizing Spray   - This made my hair feel kind of crispy but it did smell amazing and it did create the curls without heat 2. Peace Out Pores   - This just didn’t work at all, I saw no results compared to other ones 3. COSRX Snail Essence Sun SPF 50+ PA+++   - This was okay but not as good as the Aloe one 4. voir rhythm of the rain Calming Glacial Leave-In Scalp Serum 5. Anua 5-Zero Mild Sun Cream SPF 50+ PA++++ 6. essence extreme shine top coat 7. The Chemistry Brand Hand Chemistry   - This smelt kind of bad to me and it didn’t really moisturize my hands 8. Buxom Power Plump Lip Balm: Big O   - Was drying for my lips 9. Laniege Lip Glowy Balm: Pear 10. Kaja Mood Balm Color Change Lip Moisturizer: First Thing   - Was drying but did give a nice color 11. rom&nd Han All Lash Serum   - This irritated my eyes  12. all Natural Houttuynia Cordata Spot Solution   - Was an okay product but I have found something that does better 13. davines MINU hair mask   - This smells bad to me, to the point that I don’t want to use it anymore

Liked Expired & Old Products

1. Garnier Fructis Style Shine & Define Wax   - This was great when I had really short hair, pixie cut, and was really easy to use plus it smelled great 2. Tony Moly Mark Glitter Liquid Eye Shadow: 03 Moon Child Flash   - This was very pretty and the packaging is also really nice. Not sure if they still make this but I really liked it 3. A’Pieu Skinny Dual Mascara  4. Thank You Farmer Safe Sun Fluid age 0880 SPF 50+ PA++++   - I liked how this sunscreen applied and it was light-weight. I always had this in the back of my mind but I had to use other sunscreens before getting around to this one, which by the time I got to it was about 6 months before its expiry date 5. Hanyul Lip Balm: 03 Rice   - I liked how it applied and the color payoff was good too. It was moisturizing at times. 6. Laneige Water Drop Tinted Lip Balm: No.1 Pink Peach   - This was also another great lip balm with a light wash of color 7. Avance Lash Serum EX   - I started using lash serums when I started getting my lashes lifted and I stumbled upon this one which was pretty good. But I feel like a lot of the times these have more than enough product before it expires. But I only apply it at night. 8. mude inspire longlash curling mascara: Black 9. mude true eyelash serum   - This is my favourite lash serum and I have tried 3 other ones, but I just like this one the most so far. It is a little pricy, around $25-$30CAD. But I just like how the shape of the wand and plus I do see a difference in my lashes. Even my lash technician mentioned how my lashes seemed longer. 10. Maybelline Master Contour Face Contouring Kit: 10 Light to Medium   - I believe this was first ever face palette, I’ve wanted to declutter this on multiple rounds but couldn’t do it because it was a bit sentimental. However, it has gotten to the point that there is just so much fall out that I have to get rid of it and also to make room for possibly new items. But I really loved the highlight in the palette. The blush and bronzer weren’t bad but I prefer other ones more. 11. tarte Amazonia clay 12-hour blush: thankful   - This was part of the Sephora birthday gift. the quality and the color of the blush is great but it was a color that I never gravitated towards because it was too bright and pink for my liking. I think I may have another one that I’m just not ready to let go of yet. 12. By Wishtrend Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water   - This had like black stuff at the bottom, but I did get a while ago but it hasn’t reached its expiry yet and it was always stored in a place without sunlight. It’s sad that I wasn’t able to use this as this is one of my favourite products.

That comes down to about 38 items I’m getting rid of, which isn’t too bad for the year. I have noticed that I do not really use face masks that often, and I still do have a bunch in my stash which I should try to cycle through them.

[vanityfairness]

February & March 2023 Empties

* = disliked the product - would not repurchase ** = liked the product - would not repurchase *** = liked the product - might or might not repurchase **** = loved the product - would repurchase *HOLY GRAIL!*

1. Acropass Soothing Q (12 patches) source: YesStyle thoughts: I like using these on bug bites as it stops me from scratching and it also helps reduce the size of it. rating: ****

2. Tatcha The Rice Wash soft cream cleanser (15ml/0.5oz) source: Sephora Birthday Gift thoughts: I have been wanting to try this cleanser for a while, but the price and the fact that it was a cream never appealed to me too much. I’m glad that it was an option for the birthday gift, because I was not a fan of it. I didn’t like how it felt and that it didn’t foam/spread well, but that may be my fault. I like to apply cleansers directly onto the face rather than foam them up and apply it to the face. I also just noticed that this cleanser has sodium hyaluronate. My face did break out quite a bit after I came back from vacation, using this product during the duration. It might had contributed to my break out since I was using it day and night, when I typically only use this once a day until I went on vacation. rating: *

3. Missha Chogongjin Chaeome Cream (10ml/0.33ml) source: Jolse Set thoughts: This does have a strong fragrance to it, so if you don’t like scents then this product would not be for you. For me, I don’t mind the scent. However, I prefer more natural/citrus scents. The scent will definitely make me feel nauseated if I was to use this long term, it’s just too sweet and floral to me. The cream itself was pretty good, I found it moisturising and the texture and feel of this cream is similar to the Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Cream. rating: **

4. Sulwhasoo Essential Perfecting Emulsion (15ml) source: Part of a Sulwhasoo set thoughts: I have mentioned this in my last post. I do enjoy using majority of Sulwhasoo’s products. And I do like this but I don’t think I would purchase this on its own. So far I have only ever purchased the First Care Activating Serum on its own everything else was all purchased as a kit/set.  rating: ***

5. Sulwhasoo Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Cream EX (5ml/0.16oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: I have mentioned this product as well for my January Empties and I still feel the same. Refer to my previous post to get more details. But I do want to try both at the same time to compare the differences and see which I like better. It’s kind of like belif aqua bombs where they have two versions. rating: ***

6. Ouai Scalp & Body Scrub: St. Barts (250g/8.8oz) source: Sephora thoughts: I absolutely love the scent of Ouai products, but their products itself so far have been a miss for me. For this particular product it was more so my personal preference. I am not the type that likes the sugar kind of scrubs. I like something more rough in texture and I find that sugar-type scrubs just don’t give me that physical exfoliating satisfaction that I want. I did not try this as a scalp scrub because I’m worried I wouldn’t wash it all off/ it gets stuck, plus given my scalp condition and all. I purely used this as a body scrubbed. I’m tempted to try their body cream just because I love the scent so much and I do see that there are 3 different scents. I just saw that they do have a smaller version of this, I wished they had a smaller one when I got this. They also have this is the Melrose scent now too. rating: **

7. heimish Matcha Biome Redness Relief Hydrating Toner (30ml/1.01oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: I haven’t really tried heimish products before at least I don’t recall. So I decided to try their Matcha Biome Line because there was a kit that contained a line of their products. Out of the 4 products I wasn’t able to try the repair cream because it contained sodium hyaluronate or a derivative. I did bring this on my trip and I think it worked great with the combination that I brought along. It does say that it’s for oil and moisture care for dehydrated oily skin as well. I might try this in the future to see if that is true for a longer duration. I didn’t really detect much of a scent to it, but regardless I love the scent of green tea so I don’t think I would had minded if the scent was stronger. This mini size lasted me 18 days and I was using this day and night during my trip and once a day when I came back. rating: *** 

March Empties

1. Sulwhasoo Essential Perfecting Emulsion (15ml) source: Part of a Sulwhasoo set thoughts: Once again I finished another one of these, refer to above post or January Empties for full thoughts. I have started trying to get through my samples and minis in the beginning of the year so that I can go through them, since I don’t travel enough to consume all of them. It’s also a nice way for me to try out some products and to see if I want to get the full size later in the year. rating: ***

2. COSRX Low pH Good Night Soft Peeling Gel (20ml/0.67oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: I have been wanting to try this for a while, so I decided to get a mini size to try. A lot of COSRX products have been a miss for me now compared to when they first came out. I talked about their morning gel cleanser which I loved back then, but for some reason when I tried it again it wasn’t what it was in the past. I’m pretty sure they changed a lot of their formulations from when they first started. This was okay, not something I really liked and gravitated towards. I used this at night like maybe once or twice a week. Honestly, I just wanted to get rid of the product. Nothing stood out to me, and I felt like it didn’t do much. rating: *

3. BLITHE Vital Treatment 5 Energy Roots (150ml/5oz) source: YesStyle thoughts: This good, but I prefer the 9 Essential Seed version more compared to this one. I felt like this didn’t do much for my skin, whereas the 9 Essential Seed one I found that my skin was more dewy and kind of gave me a glow. This one did give a good amount of hydration but compared to the 9 essential seed one I felt it was a bit less hydrating. There are two other varieties and I’m still debating if I want to try them or not but I will see, usually if they are on sale for a good price I tend to just go for it. rating: **

4. The Face Shop Herb Day Cleansing Tissue (20 wipes) source: The Face Shop thoughts: I have been using these ever since I started documenting my empties/ started this tumblr. I still really like these although I feel like these may have changed a bit. I noticed the scent isn’t as strong now and the feel of the cloth seems a little different as well. However, I still really like these, but I will double check to see if these did change or not in a later post. rating: *HOLY GRAIL*

5. Juice to Cleanse Water Wash Balm (9g/0.31oz) source: Jolse thoughts: I actually bought the full size of this as well, but I brought this mini one along with me on my trip. I really like this cleansing balm, more than the other ones I’ve tried before. I feel like this does remove everything off without stripping my skin. I do go over it with another cleanser afterwards. It melts/spreads great and washes off easily. So far my favourite cleansing balm. I tend to use cleansing balms and do the double cleansing method more so during the warmer months or when I have quite a bit of make up on.  rating: ***

6. Botanist Botanical Bar Skin Soap: grapefruit & freesia (100g) source: Japanese Grocery Store thoughts: I really like the scent of Botanist products but the formulations are only okay. It didn’t cause any back acne, which is a plus. I feel like the soap was a little stripping as my skin did feel a bit dry afterwards, hence I moisturized more than usual. rating: **

7. Charley Bath Salt & Herbs: My Dear Fruit & Crescent Moon source: YesStyle thoughts: I like the style of this bath salt as it comes in a tea bag form. The scent was very sweet and fruity, mainly of peaches with hints of apples and grapefruit. The water was a nice pink color and there was no residue on my tub, not that I noticed. rating: ***

8. Lador Tea Tree Scalp Clinic Hair Pack (200ml/6.76oz) source: Stylevana thoughts: This is still my favourite hair treatment still. I did stop using this for a few weeks and my scalp and hair felt so irritated, that I had to incorporate this back into my routine. So now I’m trying to just use this once a week, as I’m also trying out other treatments. But the one I’m currently using did sting quite a bit if I had opened wound on my head from all the scratching, but this product just cools and soothes it which really helps. rating: ****

9. Acropass Trouble Care (22 patches) source: YesStyle thoughts: I like to use these when I feel a bump on my face/ body. These definitely help reduce the size but I would need to use it more than once to feel and see a difference. I did repurchase these already, and I have noticed that now you don’t get one tea tree pad per a patch but it’s one pad for 2 patches. rating: ***