Epic Nonsense

NUDESTIX NUDESKIN 3-Step: Citrus Renew Set For Makeup

2022-02-17T12:47:00.000-06:00

So, it's been a while. But, I am here with another review! Today we're talking about the NUDESTIX NUDESKIN 3-Step Skincare Set. I received this sample size kit and I thought I'd share with you some of my thoughts.

THOUGHTS:

Let's start with the Citrus Clean Balm & Make Up Melt. Seeing as these products are made in Korea, this cleansing balm reminds me a lot of some other Korean makeup cleansing balms. The texture is thick, and a little goes a long way. I find adding a little bit of water to it helps remove makeup very well (even though it does not say to add water in the instructions). The cleansing balm also has a slight fragrance to it - which is nice, as it is not too overwhelming, it has a bit of a "bitter" smell/undertone to it and it didn't bother me, and trust me, I have a very sensitive nose and I don't typically like fragrance in my products at all. Overall, it does what it should, and I am pretty happy with the results as it removed my 24-hour eye makeup during the first try.

INGREDIENTS:

Citrus Clean Balm & Makeup Melt

Isodecyl Neopentanoate, Isononyl Isononanoate, PEG-10 Isostearate, PEG-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Synthetic Wax, Trihydroxystearin, Sorbitan Olivate, Litsea Cubeba Fruit Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Oil, Dehydroacetic Acid, Canarium Luzonicum Gum Nonvolatiles, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Oil, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Oil, Acacia Senegal Gum, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Maltodextrin, Water (Aqua), Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, Butylene Glycol, Salvia Hispanica Seed Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Citral, Limonene, Linalool, Citronellol, Geraniol.

Next up, is the Lemon-Aid Detox & Glow Micro-Peel.

THOUGHTS:

Now as cool of a product this is, I found it started peeling before I started even rubbing it into my skin, I'm not sure if it did much exfoliation (or I just have smooth skin and no rough patches to see the results...). As for the scent, it is very mild, which I like. However, again, like the previous item, it has a slight "bitter" smell and undertone to it. Overall, I can't say this did much for my skin, personally.

INGREDIENTS:

Lemon-Aid Detox & Glow Micro-Peel

Water (Aqua), Dipropylene Glycol, Cellulose, Trehalose, Phenoxyethanol, Arginine, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Niacinamide, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Peel Extract, Punica Granatum Fruit Extract, Disodium EDTA, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Lactic Acid, Limonene.

Lastly, the Citrus-C Mask & Daily Moisturizer

THOUGHTS:
The first thing that stood out to me was the scent. Now, by no means is it a strong scent. Like the rest of the kit, the scent is very mild and not strong at all (and I don't mind it), but the turmeric may throw some people off at first, as it does have the most "bitter" undertone to it which could be off-putting to some people. I enjoyed this as a moisturizer as it goes on nice and absorbs quickly enough with no greasy feeling. I had also used this as an overnight mask and found it did keep my skin moisturized and my skin felt super soft in the morning. Overall, for me, it was just okay, it wasn't amazing.

INGREDIENTS:
Citrus-C Mask & Daily Moisturizer

Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Propanediol, Dipropylene Glycol, Hydrogenated Poly (C6-14 Olefin), Diisostearyl Malate, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, 1,2-Hexanediol, C14-22 Alcohols, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Citrus Junos Seed Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, C12-16 Alcohols, Isohexadecane, Acrylates/C10- 30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Tromethamine, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Palmitic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Tocopheryl Acetate, Polysorbate 80, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Sorbitan Oleate, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Glucose, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Tocopherol, Limonene, Linalool.

FINAL THOUGHTS:
I liked the clear travel-sized bag it came in and I know I will be re-using this bag. As for the colour choices for the set, the micro-peel and the moisturizer are both in yellow tubes, so at a glance (and if you're in a rush), you could grab the micro-peel by accident when you really wanted to grab the moisturizer. Overall, I think for the price point at $32.00 CAD, this set is just okay. In my opinion, there are plenty of vegan-friendly travel sets at a much lower cost such as the e.l.f. Holy Hydration! skincare set (which you get more bang for your buck too.)

Cyber Colors Black Label UV Essence Liquid Foundation

2018-03-24T16:14:00.002-05:00

Now that winter is finally and *hopefully* coming to an end, it's time to reflect on one of the foundations I've loved using during the winter months. While there are plenty of new foundations I want to try (and many I have still yet to review), the Cyber Colors Black Label Foundation seemed like a good choice for my skin after re-discovering it at the back of my make-up shelf. I had previously used this foundation during the summer, and I did not like it until my re-discovery and now I'm ready to share with you my thoughts.

Backstory: I was looking for a light-weight foundation with good coverage for the summer months, because, who wants to wear heavy make-up in the summer? So I went on a hunt to find my "summer foundation". I remembered that Bubzbeauty had mentioned a foundation in one of her chit-chat videos a few years ago, matching my specific checklist, so I did some re-watching of her videos and found out the name, which is how I became interested in this foundation.

Thoughts & Discoveries: The Black Label Essence UV Liquid Foundation has a low viscosity and a very light-weight and thin formula. It is a non-fragrance foundation, which I like because I am sensitive to smells. The foundation blended in and sat well on my skin; creating a very natural look. On the days that I wore it, most people couldn't tell I was wearing foundation (even the lady at the SHISEIDO counter complimented on how great my skin looked, when I told her it was the foundation, she didn't even think I was wearing any). However, my experience with the foundation during previous summer months was quite the opposite. I found it melted off my skin, and it started creasing because of the oils on my skin mixing in with it; it did not stay on my skin at all. Ironically, my hunt for my "summer foundation" actually became my "winter foundation." Looking back in retrospect, it makes sense since this foundation only contains an SPF of 18 PA + +, which isn't nearly enough sun protection for the summertime, thus, would have been a better choice in winter anyway.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Cyclopentasiloxane, CI77891 (Titanium Dioxide), Alcohol, Talc, Ethylhexyl Methoxcinnamate, Mineral Oil, Methyl Trimethicone, Dipropylene Glycol, Glycerin, Dipentaerythrityl Tri-polyhydroxysterate, CI77492 (Iron Oxides), Sorbitan Isosterate, Diisosteryl Malate, CI77120 (Barium Sulfate), PEG/PPG-20/20 Dimethicone, CI77002 (Aluminum Hydroxide), Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone, Crosspolymer, Butylene Glycol, CI7749 (Iron Oxides), Dimethicone, Hydrated Silica, CI77499 (Iron Oxides), Trifluoropropyldimethyl / Trimethlysiloxysilicate, Hydrogenated Lecitin, Trimethlysiloxysilcate, CI77947 (Zinc Oxide), Magnesium Sulfate, Lauroyl Lysine, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Citrus Aurantium Tachibana Peel Extract, Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Leaf Extract, Cordyceps Sinensis Extract, PEG/PPG-19/10 Dimethicone, Panax, Ginseng Root Extract, Angelica Acutiloba Root Extract

Foundation Claims:
1) Contains pore invisible powder (Pore Gradation Powder), and has durable anti-sweat and oil control properties, and covers pores and fine lines.
2) Contains nutrition and moisturizing ingredients to keep the skin moist and watery.
3) Effectively improves the quality of skin roughness

RE: Claim #1 - I'm not sure what the Pore Gradation Powder does, or if this was a fancy way to say it covers pores and fine lines? But I didn't see any gradation effect or anything special. However, it did cover my pores and is an excellent semi-matte foundation. For me, it was durable and it did a decent job at controlling the oils on my skin during the winter time. But as noted above, it did not hold up to the oil control claims during the summer time for me.

RE: Claim #2 - I wouldn't say it kept my skin feeling moist and watery when I wore the foundation alone. However, it sat a lot better on my skin once I had used toner and a moisturizer as a base (as indicated in the instructions).

RE: Claim #3 - I didn't notice any difference as I normally exfoliate and hydrate my skin, and not sure how a foundation would improve the quality of skin roughness.

Would I re-purchase: Yes. I had previously bought this off Sasa.com, and although the price point was on the higher end of the spectrum. I do quite enjoy how this made my skin look and how well it worked on my skin during the winter months.

Swatches Below: It comes in 3 shades (01 Ivory, 02 Natural, and 03 Beige). I got mine in 02 Natural

[Review] TROIPEEL H+ Healing Cushion & H+ BB Cream | Swatches

2016-09-10T17:05:00.001-05:00

I'm pretty late at jumping into the cushion foundation bandwagon, but after much research and months of browsing YouTube videos - I've decided to give the TROIPEEL H+ Cushion and H+ BB Cream a try. After watching MissElectraHeart's and Joan Keem's videos about this brand, I became very interested in the products since everyone keeps mentioning it's 99% skincare and 1% makeup. So I decided to purchase it and see if it's worth the hype. If you haven't heard of TROIPEEL before, it is a sister brand of TROIAREUKE. So without further ado, please enjoy the read:

TROIPEEL H+ CUSHION

Back Story & Thoughts: I bought the H+ Cushion and the H+ BB Cream off BragMyStyle on eBay, and received the package in 2 weeks. From July to August, I've been using the product for one month consistently. In my opinion, it's nothing spectacular. It's not some miracle cushion. But I do enjoy how the cushion has SPF 50 with PA +++, the highest SPF that I have seen in a cushion. It's also by far the nicest feeling foundation I've ever worn, the colour was slightly on the lighter side when I first applied it (since it was summer here). However, it's a pretty good match for my MAC NC20 skin tone. When it comes to the smell of it, there is a slight herbal scent to it, but it's a refreshing scent that is not too overwhelming.

H+ Cushion Ingredients: Water, Titanium Dioxide, Butylene Glycol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Ethylhexyl Salicylate,Cyclohexasiloxane,C12-15 Alkyl benzoate, Niacinamide, Octocrylene,Zinc Oxide, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, PEG-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate, PEG-10 Dimethicone, Iron Oxides (CI 77492), Sodium Chloride, Quaternium-18 Bentonite, Dimethicone, Centella Asiatica Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Vitex Agnus Castus Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Iron Oxides (CI 77491), Iron Oxides (CI 77499), Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Mica (CI 77019), Silica, Ozokerite, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Chlorphenesin,Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Aluminum Hydroxide (Cl 77002), Adenosine, Perfume

Now let's check out some of the claims of this cushion:
1. Regeneration of new skin all day long (has a skin regenerating ingredient such as Adenosine, which helps reproduce cells and promotes wound healing and has anti-inflammatory properties)
2. Protection from other environment (has something called WWS (Water Wrapping System) and it forms a thin moisture layer on the skin surface.
3. Perfect coverage, yet no skin stuffiness (light-weight makeup with excess sebum control)

RE: Claim #1 - I don't know how much regenerating it actually does since the regenerating ingredient Adenosine is second last on the ingredients list. I mean, I guess it is regenerating the skin...compared to products without this ingredient. But I didn't notice any big improvements when I had a few acne breakouts. I also noticed the Centella Asiatica Extract (another wound healing ingredient) higher up on the ingredients list but as I mentioned earlier, I still didn't see any major improvements.

RE: Claim #2 - I naturally have oily skin so I can't really tell if the H+Cushion had kept moisture in my skin (I may have to test this cushion out during the winter time).

RE: Claim #3 - Yes, it has great coverage and it doesn't feel like I'm wearing make-up! I love how one layer of this cushion foundation can cover most of my scars and discolouration in my skin. I also love how buildable the formulation is as well (if you wanted more coverage). As for excess sebum control, it does do a decent job at keeping my oily skin at bay. However, after 5 hours I would say that I would require a touch up. I do end up getting some creasing around my eyes and nose though, but that's what comes when I have oily skin.

Would I re-purchase? Not likely, the reasons being the price and because it doesn't come with a refill. If it wasn't for the expensive price tag, I would definitely re-purchase. Like I said, it's the best foundation I ever wore.

TROIPEEL H+ BB CREAM

Thoughts: The H+ BB Cream is similar to the H+ Cushion, however, it has SPF 40 with PA ++ (double plus, instead of triple plus that the H+ Cushion has). After using both products consistently for one month, I honestly prefer the H+ Cushion over the H+ BB Cream. The BB cream has a stronger herbal scent to it, which again, I don't mind, but it is definitely stronger than the H+ Cushion. Not unbearable though. I found the colour of the H+ BB Cream lighter and slightly on the grey side than the H+ Cushion. However, I do like it how it stays matte for a longer period of time than the H+ Cushion.

H+ BB Cream Ingredients: Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Titanium Dioxide, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Butylene Glycol, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Dipropylene Glycol, Hexyl Laurate, Dimethicone, Arbutin, Isoamyl p-Methoxycinnamate, Cyclomethicone , Magnesium Sulfate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, BeesWax, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, Talc, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, PEG-10 Dimethicone, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Allantoin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Panthenol, Glycerin, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Sophora Angustifolia Root Extract, Citrus Junos Fruit Extract, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Extract, Citrus Paradisi (Grapefruit) Fruit Extract, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Flower Extract, Adenosine, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Usnea Barbata (Lichen) Extract, Zanthoxylum Piperitum Fruit Extract, Pulsatilla Koreana Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Extract, Anthemis Nobilis Flower Extract, Propylene Glycol, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Fragrance, CI77492, CI77491, CI77499

Now, this BB Cream is a post-resurfacing treatment so it suppose to relax, resurface and protect the skin. After using this from August to September, I didn't find it to be any different than any other BB cream. In fact, I sort of prefer my Lioele Triple the Solution BB cream over this one.

Would I re-purchase: Not likely. Same reasons as the H+ Cushion for it being too expensive. If it wasn't for the price tag, I'll definitely re-purchase, because it has great coverage too and that it doesn't contain parabens.

SWATCHES

Below is my swatch of the Troipeel H+ Cushion & H+ BB Cream with the MAC Studio Fix Fluid in NC20.

Here I've swatched the Troipeel H+ BB Cream & H+ Cushion compared to my Lioele Triple the Solution BB Cream.

I hope this post has been helpful. If you have any questions regarding this, please leave a comment down below!

[Review] Missha Super Aqua Marine Stem Cell Intensive Serum & Other Discoveries

2014-05-16T17:44:00.000-05:00

As a user of Biotherm Biopur products for many years, I have been on the hunt for another product that is similar to it. I've never found another product quite like the same ever since Biotherm had discontinued Biopur. Until, (maybe) now. I'm a sucker for ocean/sea skincare products.

I had stumbled upon the Missha Super Aqua Marine Stem Cell Intensive Serum through a sample from another skin care order. I had finished using my serum at the time, and decided to give this a try. I've heard many good reviews about Missha, however, it was my first time using the brand. Just overnight, (as I found the next morning) my face felt plumper and smoother. That's when I decided to get the full sized version.

This serum has a slight floral, almost lemon-y scent, which is quite refreshing. The scent is faint and not strong at all which I quite enjoy (I don't like strong scents). It has a gel-like texture that leaves my skin feeling soft, and hydrated. The consistency of the product is quite light, and it just melts into your skin. From the packaging point of view, this serum is in glass bottle with a pump, which is hygienic. However, it would be difficult getting the last bit of product when you're at the end of the bottle.

Would I (re) purchase: Yes.
Alternatively, if you’re like me and enjoy the light texture, while not having to spend the big bucks on a product. I would recommend the Nivea Aqua Effect Mattifying Day Care With Ocean Algae & Hydra IQ. I find the texture quite similar to Biotherm Biopur Moisturizer, and the Missha Serum. And yes, I do quite like it, and the price point is great.

Additional reading

Learn about Missha: Super Aqua Marine Stem Cell Intensive Serum
Learn about Biotherm: Biotherm | Luxury Skincare
Learn about Nivea: Nivea Aqua Effect Mattifying Day Care

Review: Lioele Active Therapy Ampoule (Brightening) 20ml

2013-03-31T12:08:00.001-05:00

Lately, I've been loving Lioele products, not only because of its cute packaging but also because of the results I get from the products. For the past year I've been using the Lioele Triple the Solution BB cream, although it came out of the tube rather thick, it provided me with nice medium to full coverage (without feeling cakey and heavy, a little goes a long way with this one) plus it had a matte finish, which was great for the hot summers we get here.

So now I've opted to get another Lioele product: The Lioele Active Therapy Ampoule in the brightening formula. My skin tends to be oily, with occasional breakouts. When I was 16, however, I had major acne (I'm not afraid to admit it.) it covered my whole entire forehead and it didn't make me feel pretty. I am now 21, hoping that I am acne-free. I mean, some days I would get a gazillion breakouts and I fear that the acne is back, but they tend to go away rather quickly. Anyhow, so due to past acne and scarring I've decided to try out this ampoule in the brightening/whitening formula.

First of all, what is an ampoule? I've certainly never heard of it before in Western skincare and I've worked in Cosmetics at a drug store before.

Ampoule is sort of an equivalent to a serum, it has loads amount of good stuff packed inside a tiny air tight bottle.

According to Skin-Spa.com. "Ampoules are typically small, glass containers that are filled with a concentration of highly active ingredients. Ampoules usually contain botanical extracts, vitamins, and enzymes in various combinations and do not have any preservatives or chemicals due to the airtight packaging."

When I was a teen, I never used any serums or anything that was too concentrated because I figured the formulas would be too rich, and too strong for my acne prone/oily skin. It would end up clogging my skin instead of helping it. So now that my acne has subsided I decided, why not try?

I learned that ampoules can have remarkable effects on hyper-pigmentation and of course the big one: aging.

As for my experience, I started using the ampoule consistently every night since I got the product which was about 3 weeks ago. I first applied the ampoule after I cleansed and toned my face. The results where I can see the most improvement is on the corners of my mouth where I had darker skin.On my forehead where I had past acne scars also seemed to have lightened up. However, on my forehead area I had applied the ampoule and used it in conjunction with Vita-K's Solution Professional Acne Scars lotion.

I'm pretty happy with the results and impressed at how quick it seemed to have worked. It has brightened up my skin, but only subtly. The Lioele Brightening Ampoule smells pretty decent it has a slight sticky feel to it after it is applied to the skin, however after you apply moisturizer, the stickiness goes away. I found using the ampoule in combination with a moisturizer makes the skin a more supple and smooth the next day.

In the end, I will re-purchase this product again. :) I bought this product from KeautyStore.com

Review: Vichy Aqualia Thermal Cream Fortifying & Soothing 24Hr Hydrating Care

2013-01-25T14:13:00.000-06:00

The other day I was digging through my bag of skin care samples that I have collected from years of "Gift with Purchases" and just random samples. What I discovered hidden in my bag is this little gem: Vichy Aqualia Thermal 24hr Hydrating Cream. It seriously has been super cold in Winnipeg for the last few days with temperatures ranging from -30°C (-22°F) and with the windchill, it feels like -43°C. (-45°F)

My skin has been feeling pretty dehydrated, and I've been trying to replenish its moisture by using face moisturizers and face creams, but because of the constant exposure to the wind, the regular moisturizers aren't working. However, then I tried the Vichy. I put it on overnight, and instantly I could feel my skin was soft and smooth. I was really amazed at how awesome it worked! The next morning my skin felt supple and firm too.

What I love about this formula is that it is non-sticky and it doesn't feel like you are wearing anything on your face. Once you apply it, the product is quickly absorbed by your skin.

The Vichy Aqualia Thermal Cream Fortifying & Soothing 24Hr Hydrating Care claims to be (from VichyUSA.com)

Enriched with Vichy Thermal Water and Activ Hyaluronine™ to help strengthen the natural protective function of the skin and soothe sensations of discomfort.

Vichy Thermal Water + Activ Hyaluronine™, patent pending, combination of hyaluronic acid and lipidure proven for lasting moisture. Micro-encapsulated and delivered in a "sprinkler-like" system for 24Hr hydration. In a comforting yet refreshing cream that melts into skin.

Non-greasy. Non-sticky for up to 24 hours, skin is intensely hydrated with moisture, feels soothed and comfortable, visibly fortified, with increased radiance. Allergy tested. Formulated for sensitive skin. Tested on sensitive skin under dermatological control. Paraben-free. Non-comedogenic.

It's very rare for to me to actually find a product that claims to do everything that it claims it does, and from my use of this product, it does what it says. So for me, this is definitely going to be one of my top picks for winter skin care.

Review: Revlon ColorStay Ultimate Suede Lipstick

2012-12-18T12:47:00.002-06:00

Recently, I've been loving the lip products Revlon has been putting out. I normally don't wear lipstick, because of the majority of the brands I've tried (and as I'm sure some ladies would agree) - they were simply too drying on my lips, even when I coat my lips with lip balm before applying.

However, Revlon definitely has come out with lip products that are non-drying (and even moisturizing without the lip balm). By far, my favourite from them are the Revlon Lip Butters, then the Just Bitten Kissable Balm Stains. So when I had the opportunity to try out Revlon's new ColorStay Ultimate Suede Lipstick from their Revlon Selects package, I was hoping it would be like a mash-up between my two favourite lip products from them. However, it sort of was, and wasn't. I'll explain a little more down below.

So let's get to it, according to Revlon's website it says the lipstick has a moisturizing formula that includes shea butter and aloe.

It says to provide:

Long lasting all-day colour
Instant moisture
Food proof wear
Soft suede finish

So? with these claims, I set out to test it. As a part of my morning routine, lip balm always goes on before I step out the door. However, I didn't put any on yesterday morning. I stepped out the door at 7:30 a.m. and headed for work.

My opinion on the first initial swipe on the lips:

Soft, smooth and lipbalm-y
It does provide "instant" moisture
The colour is nice and is buildable, you can rock a sheer look with one swipe, or with multiple swipes you can go for a more pigmented look.

Between 8 a.m - 4:30 p.m. I talk to customers, drink tea, and answer the phone.

My opinion after 2 hours:

This isn't moisturizing
I need lip balm, where's my lip balm?
Why do my lips look old? (the lipstick does end up in the creases and lines of your lips)
There's colour on my white cup (there's a slight transfer of colour onto the cup)

At that moment, I had to put on lip balm.

By the end of the work day, my lips were still semi-coloured. The colour does stay on, but it fades like any other lipstick.

Comparing Revlon's ColorStay Ultimate Suede Lipstick to my other two favourite lipsticks, I have have made my decision that it does have a 'staining' effect like the Just Bitten Kissables, but it is more drying. Like the Lip Butters, it also does have an 'instant' moisture effect when you first put it on, but unlike the Lip Butters, the moisture doesn't last. After a few hours the moisture on your lips disappears, and you feel like you have chapped lips even when you didn't have it to begin with.

Would I recommend this? and overall thought? To me, it's not any different than any other drying lipstick.

I'd stick with my Revlon Lip Butters and Just Bitten Kissables.

When You Think Too Much

2012-10-10T10:44:00.004-05:00

How the thinkers mind works

What are some major events that can happen in your life?

Let's name a few: buying a home, moving to a different city, starting a new career, starting a new school, presenting a big speech, losing someone, a break-up, a divorce, and actually - many other things. When these situations happen, what are some of the things that go through your head? Do you go through all the possibilities of things that could happen? or are you the kind of person who let's life unfold itself?

I am the thinker, sometimes it's a good thing; sometimes not so much. Sometimes it creates stress and sometimes people get annoyed because you talk about it so much. Like my mom, she's a thinker. She told me, at the end of the day - when you think about it too much, you're actually making it a bigger deal than it actually is (coming from experience, of course).

So as a thinker, I tend to "think it out." But when it comes down to it; just remember to be happy, because life is too short to be anything but happy. Think positive, worry less, be happier, and stay strong.

The Search: Monster High Dolls in Winnipeg

2012-09-04T09:48:00.000-05:00

Yeah, so it's true. I am collecting Monster High dolls. Frankie Stein to be exact. I wouldn't have expected myself to be into doll collecting. I mean, I can hear my mom saying to me (very loudly), "You're an adult now, why are you playing with dolls again?" Sigh. I am not playing with dolls. I am collecting. There's a difference!

When I first saw Monster High dolls in 2010, I looked at them (Frankie Stein in particular) and thought to myself "These are pretty cool dolls." To be honest, I did want one - just to have because they looked cool. But the thinking part of me said "Yeah, they're cool. But you don't REALLY NEED IT." So off I went on my merry way. Who would have thought two years later I would be kicking myself in the face for NOT getting the first wave of Frankie Stein? Not only is she impossible to find, but also major expensive. There was another instance where I had Dead Tired Frankie in my hand and I said to myself, "I don't really need it." Then, a few months later I went on a hunting spree trying to find her again. In the end, I did get Dead Tired Frankie, but not for the price I COULD have gotten it - which was $11.17 at Superstore. So now my rule (well my boyfriend's rule) is: Buy it when you see it. I guess he doesn't want to hear me whine about it.

However, out of my collection (School's Out, Ghouls Rule, Sweet 1600, Dead Tired, and Frankie Stein Fashion Pack).

My three favourites so far are:
Frankie Stein - Sweet 1600, which my boyfriend searched the entire city of Winnipeg for.
Frankie Stein - Dead Tired, which I got off eBay for a fairly decent price.
Frankie Stein - School's Out, which I found at Kohl's when I was taking a trip to the States.

The ones I still want to get:
Frankie Stein - Wave 1 Basic or the Limited Edition Black and White San Diego Comic Con Edition
Frankie Stein - Dawn of the Dance
Frankie Stein - Threaderella, Scary Tales

For anyone looking for Dead Tired Series, the last place I checked that still had them was at the Selkirk, MB, Walmart on Friday, August 31. There was a few Draculaura's and Ghoulia's left, if anyone was interested in getting them. I'd also probably call the store first before going if you're not from Selkirk and want to get them.

Anyhow, happy doll hunting!

Found a New Comic Site!

2012-08-23T11:29:00.000-05:00

If you have read my previous blog posts, you'd know that I love reading comics and little cute comic doodles. I have just found a new site called The Oatmeal, and I'd wonder how I never found this site before!

I was scrolling through the various entertaining pages as I stumbled upon this one: How to Get More Likes on Facebook. Not only is it funny, it's also true. It doesn't help that it's cute too. I love it!

I recommend you check out this website as it has comics that covers almost everything. From music, to Breaking Bad, to birthday cards.

It's a cute little site if you want something funny to read.

Happiness is...

2012-07-12T10:46:00.001-05:00

"Happiness is what you make it to be." He said.

Life always gets me thinking, and being in a relationship with someone who is happy and easy going makes me realize that there are things in life that just aren't worth dwelling about.
Being with someone who can keep a positive attitude in the worst of situations makes me see that I can do that too. It makes me see that living life and being happy everyday is important, which sometimes people forget about. My boyfriend is the one of the people who has made a big impact on my life (in a positive way, of course). Everytime I fret about the little details, or keep talking about something that has already happened that I can't change. His happiness and wisdom reminds me to not waste my energy on things that has already happened but to forgive and live today. I find that many people always look at the past, or look ahead to the future - which isn't a bad thing, but you are living now, so cherish it.

I also realize that my life isn't bad at all. I was fortunate to have grown up in a pretty happy family and have almost everything provided for. Food, shelter, clothes and all the necessities for decent living. So why in the world was I always complaining about the stuff I didn't have? I think society is so caught up in being better, and achieving more and living lifestyles like celebrities that we take everything that we have for granted. But when you think about some one who has less than you do, then you realize how fortunate you are.

The thing is though: how often do we think about someone who has less than you?
And why do we always compare ourselves to people who have more than we do?

I also stumbled upon a video that one of my favourite beauty gurus on YouTube made. It couldn't have come at better time. I just wanted to share with you this video from Bubzbeauty which touched me very much and I'm sure it would touch you as well.

My Bucket List - What I Still Have to Do

2012-06-27T10:08:00.000-05:00

In my previous post, My Bucket List - 50 Things to Do I had listed the 50 things I wanted to do before I was 30 years old. Let's see how many of those I have accomplished so far. I've decided that some of the items on my bucket list may be a tad too expensive (like #46 diving to see the Titanic).

1. Set foot on each of the seven continents

~~2. Learn how to say “thank you” in ten languages~~ I have learned it in Ukranian, German, Gaelic, Russian, Punjabi, Tagalog, Korean, Japanese, Polish and Swedish.

~~3. Take dance lessons for belly dance~~

4. Go on a ghost tour
~~5. Stay out late and watch the stars all night~~
6. Be in a movie, whether as an extra or as the star
~~7. Watch the sun rise and set in the same day~~
8. Take the tour of Disney World’s underground tunnel system
9. Camp at the bottom of the Grand Canyon
10. Have a credit on IMDB.com (like my cousin Stan)
11. Be in a talk show audience (Oprah? ooh wait...)
~~12. Adopt a pet from a shelter or rescue group.~~
13. Inner tube down a river
~~14. Make an oil painting (It's coming, it's coming!)~~
15. Confront at least one of your big fears (this one is bugs and creepy crawlies) This is my next task I'm working on.
16. At least attempt to tackle every dream and goal you’ve ever had. (This is continuous)
~~17. Take one day to just watch the clouds and take one night just to watch the stars.~~
18. Travel for a full year. (Oh my!)
19. Vacation on a house boat
20. Live without email, IM, or cell phone for a week (I've tried this, it hasn't been successful so far)
21. Be on a TV news program for something positive
22. Stomp grapes at a vineyard
23. Create an invention
~~24. Learn how to drive a tractor~~
25. Send a message in a bottle
26. See the pyramids in Egypt
27. Learn to juggle
~~28. See a solar eclipse~~
29. Visit the rain forest
~~30. Create a family tree~~
~~31. Find more about my ancestry~~
32. Walk the Great Wall of China
33. Visit the Taj Mahal
34. Visit Dubai
35. Sing and perform in public.
36. Fly a helicopter
37. Ride a roller coaster
38. Start a social movement
39. Go vegetarian for a month
40. Learn martial arts
41. Win a draw
42. Plant a tree and watch it grow
43. Scuba dive in the Great Barrier Reef
44. Be on the same stage as Green Day, and play guitar for one of their songs
45. Meet Billie Joe and Adrienne Armstrong
~~46. Dive to see the Titanic in a submarine~~ NOT ENOUGH COIN.
47. Take an African safari
48. Spend a summer in Paris
49. Own a store/business
50. Own a little house on the prairie

When it Comes to Blogging

2012-06-22T09:56:00.001-05:00

Dear Epic Nonsense Blog,

So yes, I've neglected blogging again, like many things I have neglected (read my previous post, I love you guitar). What used to be so easy to me writing everything, and anything down in my journal...now has become something like a chore. You don't want to do it, but yet it must be done.

Why must I blog, you may ask? Well, ever since getting a job in the communications industry it seems I have spent more time on my employers social media platforms, that I feel like I am missing out on my own social media time. I use to go on Facebook maybe, every hour reading my friend's posts or playing Farmville. Now? My crops are dying and not harvested! Oh, well.

The reason being, having spent the majority of my day doing social media for my employer, I really just don't want to do my own anymore. As for blogging? It presents me with a different platform than having to face Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

It's funny, because before I had enjoyed doing Facebook and Twitter a lot more than blogging. Now that I have too much Facebook and Twitter time. I like to switch back to blogging. Hmm, is there such thing as too much Facebook and Twitter?

However, I'm going to say "Hello Blog! You will be loved again! Don't worry Facebook and Twitter, I'll still visit you too."

With love,

Sharon

Picking up that Guitar..Again

2012-05-16T20:18:00.003-05:00

It's been two years! I am finally a graduate of the Creative Communications program from Red River College. Well, school is done. Now it's job hunting time. However, before that I'd just like to take the time and wind down and pick up my guitar and start playing once again (my guitar feels a little neglected, not to mentioned it was collecting dust just sitting there).

I've even had time to give my blog a new layout. I'm liking it so far.

So guys? what are your hobbies that you stopped doing or neglected because of education?

What else can this ninja do?

2012-05-08T10:53:00.000-05:00

In goes the eggs!

One of the few things I like to do to ease the 'post-job-interview-jitters' is to make something yummy. When it came down to it last Friday, simply put, I was nervous, my hands were clammy and cold. I realized right after that it was all in my head, so what do girls normally do when they need to relieve stress? They meet up with their girl friends and talk about it. Needless to say, that's what I did and I immediately felt better. However, my mind kept playing over what I should have done, and what I could have done. I'm still kicking myself in the face for not remembering to show my portfolio that I had brought, but that's how you learn - you'll know better next time to have it in hand!

It was also my dad's birthday that day, and that night I decided to bake a cake for my dad. When it comes to baking it helps me not think about the past and dwell about the little things that I should have, or could have done, and I go into a new world - now I'm focused on making that cake. My mom kept coming to check up on me, to make sure I did everything right, (it is her recipe and apparently 'her' kitchen) but the thing I like to feel most about is: independence. I wanted to do it myself. So after a bit of a quarrel in the kitchen. The cake turned out okay, I'm not a huge baking person though - that's my sister.

I'm more of a stir-fry 'throw-everything-in-a-wok' type girl. This morning, I made scrambled eggs using chopsticks (that's my Asian-ness talking) and I'd like to say I'm a pretty good breakfast maker. If you want pancakes? you got 'em and they're good (according to my parents and boyfriend). Eggs - scrambled, fried, sunny-side? I'm right on it. Making food and eating is another one of this ninja's forte. Along with many other activities like drawing, painting, photography, and playing guitar. Now also picking up a new hobby racing RC cars and flying RC helicopters (and fixing them after I crash them). Then I also want to fix up old cars. For me, I want to be constantly learning new things. I want to be constantly being able to improve myself and learn.

Pictures of my eggy goodness <3

Don't forget to add the cheese

Picture perfect - scrambled eggs and toast

How often do you see chopsticks with eggs?

How am I a Ninja? Reasons why.

2012-04-30T23:51:00.000-05:00

Sharon Mak - Online Marketing Ninja at Canada's Web Shop, now that sounds like an awesome title.

I have stealth - like a ninja. I am inconspicuous - like a ninja and I have the creativity of a ninja. I even have a ninja wrist band to prove it! (or at least, it makes me feel more like one).

For readers not understanding my ninja talk. Let's first start off with who is Canada's Web Shop?
Quick background info: They are a full-service Internet marketing company located in the historic Exchange District in Winnipeg. They provide everything from website development, to developing the meat (or brand awareness) of your websites' online presence. To sum it all up, they make sure your website gets attention from the people you want.

So what does being a ninja have to do with Canada's Web Shop?

Well, for starters they have a ninja position I would like to apply for. And I have some pretty epic qualifications for them to put to use. Let's put my ninja skills to some use, baby!

As a graduate of the Creative Communications (CreComm) program at Red River College I have developed and honed in on my ninja skills. The program has given me training in most areas of the communications industry like public relations, journalism, media production and of course, my area of specialty: advertising=copywriting. I have developed skills in social media, and learned how to use it effectively (although, I must admit I am not quite at the 3 million followers just yet on Twitter).

Being in CreComm I have learned a lot about myself. I discovered that I am capable of producing exceptional work with a deadline driven environment. I am tech saavy. Final Cut Pro? Got it. Adobe InDesign. Got it. Adobe Photoshop? Got it.

Heck, I've created documentaries and music videos for clients, and video blogs for the Minipop Kids (yes, the one and only K-tel's Minipop Kids)

Furthermore, my intern experience has taught me to time manage effectively, problem-solve and work with clients in a professional manner.

In my opinion, I find Canada's Web Shop to be really refreshing. What do you mean, you ask? Just from reading the overall content on the website, and from the Marketing Dream Job posting, I can definitely tell that this company has character - a brand, a personality. And that is what makes Canada's Web Shop a company I want to work for. This is also a company where I think you can utilize my creative skills to build on your already awesome team. It's a work place where all creative minds get together to have a party. Er I mean, to have fun brainstorming epic ideas and strategies.

Saying so, I know I am able to survive through the trenches and can't wait to roll up my sleeves. I'm gonna grab my Tide-to-Go and get dirty.

Haven't gotten enough of me? Check out my Twitter @whats3rname
My other blog: Tomorrow Will Be Worse :) Smile Today.
My web portfolio (I can proudly say I designed it myself - took me a while but I got it done) Sharon Mak ~ Online Portfolio
Find me on LinkedIn - Sharon Mak

Cheers, and have an epic day.

Sharon

Last but not least - comics about working retail

2011-12-09T11:49:00.001-06:00

Hello, my fellow minions,

Today is the last day of class! YAY! But to end my retail/work blog entries I magically stumbled upon this awesome and funny blog (which I will link below) about working retail. So working retail means working with customers and the public, and working with the public means a lot of demanding, crabby and umm sometimes, rather interesting customers, or in this case, characters. This site: OUR VALUED CUSTOMERS turned crazy, funny customer quotes into some epic cartoons.

You must check it out. One of the awesome-est things I've ever seen.

Hmm, I doodle out stuff like this too.... maybe...just maybe......

Anyhow,

Happy holidays and take care!

Crazy Christmas Hours

2011-12-02T12:13:00.000-06:00

Hi my little Asian dumplings,

It's December already! Oh boy, time going by like zip zip! So I just found out that I am working a fairly crazy shift at my lovely retail job...(mmmhmm, major sarcasm) 3:30 p.m. to midnight. I don't think my supervisor knows, but I'm usually asleep at midnight. Anyhow, but because it's a job and my parents are very big about jobs/work/money etc. It's okay for me to stay out "so late" to "work" but it's not okay if I am hanging out with my girl friends until midnight. Can I not get a little bit of freedom here?

Sigh...I guess not. So sad.

My Christmas List

2011-11-25T23:02:00.000-06:00

From the looks of it right now, it appears as my blog entries will be about Christmas-y type things from now until winter holidays anyway.

So as many people are scurrying around in the city today because of the Black Friday sales (I'm jealous). I am at home trying to catch up on my endless list of homework assignments and things I need to do.

Things to do:
1) Homework - only need to do about...ah about 13 things (no biggie) with 10 school days left.
2) Get 10 hours of sleep - work Saturday and Sunday full time hours, not to mention to do laundry and clean the house and prepare dinner.
3) Meet up with high school friends - they have been asking when I will ever meet up with them since first year CreComm
4) Start designing my Christmas cards
5) Start my Christmas shopping list - and figure out what my parents need/want. They're kind of hard to shop for.
6) Actually go out and find the Christmas items
7) Actually start making my Christmas cards
8) Wrap the Christmas gifts
9) Figure out what kind of Christmas goodies I want to bake
10) Organizing the Christmas party.

Until I have these all completed. THEN will I be able to set my mind at ease. :)

Retail during the Christmas season

2011-11-21T15:21:00.002-06:00

Hello folks,

So as you all may have noticed - the stores, the streets, the shopping malls are much busier this time of year. It's because it's rounding up to to 'that' time of year again. Yes. That time of year. Christmas.

This is my favourite time of the year. I get to see my extended family members. I get to see my little cousins (and they get to see me)

The thing about working in retail is you have to deal with needy customers, cheery customers and especially, my favourite - the crabby customers.

I swore to myself that this month I will not get mad, nor will I get frustrated this Christmas season. I was doing so good this month on trying to keep a happy cheerful mood until this weekend. I blew it. I wasn't angry at the customer. But it was the affect of her treating me with disrespect that put me in a bad mood. The affect of her disrespect toward me, resulted in me coming home and starting an angry/annoyed attitude 'wave'. The little things that wouldn't bug me, I would get worked up about. Which that, would result in very angry Asian parents. Lesson learned. Work issues, stay at work. Home issues, stay at home. And school issues, stay at school.

I think people should really try to keep their moods in good spirits because isn't that what Christmas is about? When did Christmas become a shopping war with people trying to get 'the' or 'theee' Christmas present? What ever happened to just family time?

Re: Why Chinese Mothers Are Superior

2011-11-14T20:29:00.000-06:00

On my Facebook feed, my cousin (who is a mom) posted this article Why Chinese Mothers Are Superior by Amy Chua a while back and I decided to give it a read. It wasn't surprising to me as I grew up with a lot of the rules and upbringings of the typical Chinese household. But, I was lucky enough that my parents were also adaptive of the Western culture.

As I was growing up, a lot of my friends associated me with being the stereotypical Chinese, which is partly true. Like the article states, I wasn't allowed to sleep over at a friends house, my parents didn't really like me being a part of school plays, and they always expected me and my sister to get As in school.

However, that didn't always happen. I didn't play the piano, I didn't play the violin. I wasn't a math whiz, but I was relatively good at sports. So would that be veering away from the typical Chinese upbringing? (Especially the math part) Maybe a little bit. It was strange for my parents, they said and I quote/translated "How could you have a such a big head and no brain?" or a saying that they always say "Big head, no brain, big head grows grass." Yes, that sounds harsh, but to my parents, those words shouldn't affect my self-esteem. As the article states "Western parents are concerned about their children's psyches. Chinese parents aren't. They assume strength, not fragility, and as a result they behave very differently."

My parents didn't seem to understand that as a kid growing up, those kinds of words did affect my self-esteem (I had a period in my life where I was major depressed because of it). But when I cried, they would tell me to stop crying because it was a sign of weakness. As a kid growing up in Western culture, how do you stop yourself from crying and understand that? While seeing other kids parents being nice?

But as I grew older, I started to see that my Chinese upbringing wasn't so bad. I still have a lot of strict so-called-rules that I follow (not exactly by the book though), in respect toward my parents. But I am also thankful that my parents are adaptive to Western culture and not too too strict like Amy Chua.

There's a format for rants?

2011-11-05T11:52:00.003-05:00

Allo ladies and gents,

I was looking for an interesting read on the Internet, I usually like to read about people ranting about the silliest things but in spite of all that, I found a format for good rants. It seems to me that ranting is a lot like comedy writing. So here it is:

What Makes a Good Rant?
A rant is usually done with wit and humor, at the same time expressing a position, a stance, or just something that you think is important. A good rant has the following components:

1. Clear structure

Intro – Establish the topic of the rant.
Middle – Provides a challenging statement which makes the listener/viewer think….The “AHA!” moment.
End – Wrap up with a statement that leaves the listener/viewer with an understanding of the topic, i.e. a summary with a catch. The catch should include content but could also be a facial expression/movement.

2. A topic that is current

Topic should not be threatening, include profanity or malign an individual or organizations’ reputation.

3. Utilizes facial expressions

4. Good intonation

5. Clear and concise message

Also remember, a rant can be as individualistic as the person ranting!

Re-posted from: Rant Like Rick Mercer

The whole Tumblr thing

2011-10-28T17:30:00.002-05:00

Allo ladies and gents,

Just a short post, do you ever have one of those times where you wish you could say something to someone, but don't know how to phrase it? Well, I have those all the time.

The thing I love about Tumblr is that you get to re-blog and re-blog, like re-tweeting. But with pictures (picture books! elementary school! yay!) that show up instead of a link and you don't have a limit of being confined by Twitter's 140 characters.

I usually re-blog posts on Tumblr because I find many many photos and passages that connect with me on every level. It's basically like a collection of photos or quotes that make me smile. To me, Tumblr is like an art gallery, you admire the work that is out there and take note of the ones that stand out.

Tumblr is my way of finding words, when I am a lost for words.

Check out my Tumblr: Tomorrow Will Be Worse, Smile Today. - www.whats3rname.tumblr.com

Things to read

2011-10-23T19:33:00.000-05:00

I love reading comics, I am a big comic reader nerd. There are a few sites I would like to share with you that are pretty cute and hilarious.

One of my favourites is of course, MoonSticks.org. I may have mentioned this site more than once on my blog but I love the cute Sailor Moon cartoons so much! I just wish the artist would update some more.

Next is SavageChickens.com this type of drawing is more quick and simple. It's drawn on Post-it notes.

Thirdly, we have Pon and Zi, cute little characters drawn by Jeff Thomas.

Anyhow take a look at the comics and happy browsing!

School Project Pack Rat

2011-10-14T22:41:00.003-05:00

Hello folks,

Assignment cover page

I was going through the boxes in my basement (again) and I stumbled upon many junior high through high school projects, school notes, drawings, doodles etc. But the one thing that stood out to me most was this memorial assignment we had to do in Grade 9 Language Arts class (2005). I don't recall what exactly the purpose of this assignment was but as the name suggests: A memorial.

The assignment required us to write from the heart and script a memorial as well as design a monument to place on top of Kimberly Hill.

Okay, so I go through my collections of school projects once every year just to see what I can throw out. But every time I go through it, I discover a little something about myself that I have forgotten. When I found my memorial assignment, a big flash of memories came rushing back to me.

My memorial

Start memory: During my last year of high school (2009) I went through a lot of decisions about which post-secondary institution I wanted to attend and which programs to take. For some odd reason, I never remembered what I wanted to do because I had influences *cough cough* (my parents) who told me to do something in the medical field. I struggled with my decisions. But I applied at the University of Winnipeg.

My monument, made out of
jade and obsidian

But when high school ended, I decided to basement clean and digging through my school projects... picked up my memorial assignment. Upon discovering this assignment and reading what I wrote about myself when I was 14, I realized what I was applying for at the U of W wasn't what I wanted to do,but rather, what my parents would like me to do. So I didn't go ahead with it. I wanted to do what I wanted to do in Grade 9, which of course, reverted back to the creative arts and entertainment.

End memory.

So it was this memorial assignment that kept me on track of what I wanted to do. It kept me from getting influenced by other people. In a way, this memorial assignment is like letter from a younger and purer me to the current me. This assignment just keeps on reminding me to do what I wanted. Maybe I'm just weird that I can't keep my decisions grounded but when you have people like your parents who are hard to please, its often difficult to keep a clear head.