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New Laneige BB Cushion Pore Control VS Whitening | Swatch and Comparison

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This year at the end of June, Laneige launched their newly formulated, in a futuristic way, 3rd Generation BB Cushion. The way the Laneige BB Cushion compact look, sleek and holographic, you’ll instantly fell in love with. Laneige introduced two types of cushion compact so everyone can find a perfect match according to their needs.

Honestly, I’ve never been a fan of cushion compact before. Mainly because of the limited shade range but this time there was a change, they had my shade (happy dance)! I’ve been trying them out ever since I got them in hand and now I’m here to share my experience with you guys.

Laneige BB Cushion - Pore Control

 

The new Laneige BB Cushion features 3 key factors:

  • 3D Skin Fit Cushion
    The newly improved cushion is strong and with just enough elasticity which allows you to pick up the desired amount of product easily and evenly with the puff. The BB liquid adheres lightly and thinly onto the skin providing a transparent makeup look.
  • Super Flex Lasting
    This new feature intensifies the long-lasting effect of smooth and even skin texture by the anti-darkening film layer. The anti-darkening film layer works automatically when applied, concealing facial wrinkles and protects makeup all day keeping up the brightness.
  • Hydro Ion Mineral Water
    The new BB cushion is now upgraded with Laneige’s signature Hydro Ion Mineral Water that contains 6 minerals (Manganese, Magnesium, Zinc, Calcium, Potassium, and Sodium) and 3 essential vitamins (A, C, and E) which assures hydrated skin all day and more lasting power.

 

Laneige BB CushionLaneige BB Cushion

What are these new technologies of Laneige BB Cushion?

To talk about this new Laneige BB cushion I’ve to tell you about their two new types. These two different types of Laneige BB cushion explains the new technology in their formula.

  1. BB Cushion – Whitening
    – incorporates the patented Sparkling Coat Technology with the application of Magic Pigment System. The pigment system uses micro-sized pearls with two different color schemes (white or silver). White pigment offers bright glowy look while silver offers a moisturizing radiant look, also deflects light by 360 degrees.
    Water coating technology of this one provides a moist and smooth complexion for a natural dewy look. It also claims to brighten the skin from inside for its Melacrusher technology.
  2. BB Cushion – Pore control
    – offers two-step oil control while minimizing pores and blurs out the uneven skin texture. Its dual powder formula controls sebum and gives a semi-matte, a soft and glowy look that lasts all day long.

Apart from those major differences both type of the BB Cushion has broad-spectrum sun protection(SPF50+ PA+++) and claims to be water resistant.

 

How about the BB cushion shade range?

For the first time in my knowledge, Laneige BB Cushion is offering a vast range of shade with undertone variety. They are available in total 8 shade, 6 shade (13, 21, 23, 31, 33, 35) in neutral/warm undertone and 2 shade (13C, 21C) in cool tone. I’ve matched my skin with the shade 35(Coffee) and got both types; Whitening and Pore control to try them out.

Laneige BB Cushion | Pore Control and Whitening

My Experience with Laneige BB Cushion:

First of all, when I found out Laneige BB cushion is offering deeper shades, that pleased me right away. Until now I was unable to find any BB cushion that doesn’t look white in my tawny skin. While I was trying them out in the launch event I was impressed by the finish of the Pore Control one right away thus I started using that one first. After a week or so I tried out the Whitening one.

Pore control one works just the way it claims. Once applied it does visibly smooth out skin and uneven skin tone, gives a semi-matte finish, feel super lightweight and last throughout the day. The whitening one also works the same way as it claims. Gives dewy finish, hydrating on the skin and long-lasting. None of them gives any white cast either.

Laneige BB Cushion Pore Control annd Whitening Shade 35 Swatch

These BB cushions are meant to give natural/transparent coverage. However, I find the Pore-control one gives a bit of better coverage than the Whitening one. I tried to wear the BB liquid in a layer for a fuller coverage; again Pore control one builds better while the Whitening one remains almost in the same translucent coverage. For the dark blemishes/spots I’ve, I was spot correcting them with a concealer.

The BB cushion doesn’t really need to set with powder after application but for my habit, I do set them with my Ben Nye Neutral Set Powder and surprisingly they don’t lose their luminous characteristic (especially the Whitening one) even after setting the base with powder.

Although these BB cushions are long lasting, after 5/6 hours I do get some oiliness in my T-zone and sometimes my smile lines get slightly obvious(those happy days when I laugh too much). But with Laneige BB cushion retouching has never been so easier! Trust me, you can just touch up with the cushion directly and it looks refreshed right away without giving any cakiness.

Another user fact I must mention about this new Laneige BB cushion,

I usually don’t like to use the puff that comes with it (only use it when I’m retouching) probably because I like the old school foundation application method. Also, it feels unhygienic to use the puff over and over this is I use my beauty blender. Although beauty blender soaks up a lot of product that the puff it comes with yet I find the beauty blender is easier to clean after every use.

 

To conclude both of the Laneige BB Cushion,

I believe, those who have flawless to almost flawless and young skin they’ll love the Laneige BB Cushion – Whitening. For my not-so-young and flawless skin, I love Laneige BB Cushion Pore Control more. I’ve used quite a lot of high-end to drugstore BB/CC creams so far. For everyday makeup, with a high SPF50+, this is the best product I’ve used so far. My current one is almost finished and I’m surely going to repurchase it.


Shopping Info:
Laneige BB Cushion Whitening | RM159 (15g X 2)
Laneige BB Cushion Pore Control | RM159 (15g X 2)

Available nationwide at Sephora, Aeon, Isetan, Parkson, or any Laneige Boutique.


If you’re interested in knowing more about BB Cushions, then do read my experience with Laneige anti-aging BB cushion. I’ve compared the anti-aging BB cushion formula with Laneige pore control and whitening cushion formulas.

If you’ve tried all the BB cushions by Laneige then let me know by commenting the name of your favorite one.

Green Story - A Malaysia Beauty Blog

5 things to do in Cameron Highland | Short Trip Destination in Malaysia

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Last month in the Eid holiday I and husband decided to spend some quality time that is surrounded by greenery and calmness. Without any doubt, in Malaysia, there is no best option that is close to KL other than Cameron Highland. There was another plus point while deciding, whether of Cameron Highland is cold (slightly hot in the mid-day) thus, the best place for a quick refreshing trip. We set our wheels for the next 3 days.

Cameron is just approx 375km away from KL. The first 100km you can pass within an hour but once you get into the Cameron region (literally hills all around) you can’t drive more than 30/40km speed because you’ll face curve in every 30 seconds. There the road gonna kill your time, it took us around 4hours to reach the city.

In holidays, I believe the state gets more visitor so it gets way too crowdy. The main city, Tanah Rata, comes before the tourist spot. We did a big mistake booking our hotel, not in Tanah Rata but close to tourist spots, Brinchang.

We booked our stay at Copthorne Cameron Highland Resort (375RM/night) seeing the high rating of the resort and that sadly turned out a total disappointment. First of all, after the city, there is only one road goes to all destination and so it was ridiculously jammed with traffic. 15 minutes of road took us 2 hours to cross and reach the hotel. Secondly, the environment of the resort (nothing like the way you see in the website picture, surroundings are simply ugly and disturbing) and our room wasn’t good enough either, old and kinda dirty looking bed furnishing pissed me off right away.

I changed the room twice but then realized it’s the same everywhere. Anyways, don’t want to mess up with my mind now thinking about that hotel (If you’re planning to visit Cameron I highly recommend you to avoid Copthorne) but want to get to the good parts…

So, mindblowing chilled weather there in Cameron that will refresh you within a moment even after the long drive and what else you can enjoy? My five best suggestions are…

1. Boh Tea Plantation
BOH Tea Plantation panview

Main attractions of Cameron Highland are the Boh Tea Plantation. Apart from Sabah tea (which is more loved among the tea lover) Cameron tea’s are well known for their aroma and quality. There are quite a few popular tea plantations in Cameron, such as Bharat Tea (Cameron Valley Tea House and Farm) however, we decided to visit BOH Tea Plantation. This one is not as big as Bharat Tea but comparatively nice and less crowded. The view there was simply mesmerizing as well as the drive to the plantation.

Within the Boh Tea Plantation, there is also a museum where you can see how they process the tea or the old machinery. A cafe and product display store on the top of the hill was pleasant as well. We sat there for an hour or two, enjoying the serene view while tasting out some fresh tea.

I realized, to enjoy the tea plantation to its fullest you must take your time. I mean you should at least keep half of the day(I would suggest the morning part) for this site only.

2. Strawberry Farm
Cameron Highland Agro Tourism | Strawberry Farm

Strawberry farms are everywhere in Cameron Highland and you’ll literally get tired of eating fresh strawberries and other foods made of strawberries. They’re quite cheap on the farm compared to how strawberries are priced at KL. Within the strawberry farm, you’ll also find other veggies like latus, tomatoes, grapes, mints, cabbages and all growing together. And obviously, everywhere you can pick things from the tree on your own.

3. Cactus Farm in Cameron Highland
Cameron Highland Cactus Farm

I love the look of the cactus farm. I’ve never seen so many varieties of cactus before. Some of the giant ones did stun me for a while. This is definitely a place for the cactus lover. When I was giggling seeing all those colorful thorny creatures my husband got poked by a few and he wanted to leave the place as soon as possible. Best part you can buy your favorite cactus from the farm at a very cheap price. I got a few small ones!

4. Lavender/Flower Farm
Cameron Highland Lavender Farm

Lavender and flower farms are very popular in Cameron highland. Unfortunately, these aren’t the actual farms but just a display spot for tourist. You’ll get to see various j=kind of lavender and other flowers. You can also pick flowers from the garden to buy, on your own. There are also a bunch of cafes and other small food shops to calm down instant hunger. I honestly didn’t enjoy the flower farms much, moreover, these places were way too crowdy.

Cameron Highland Agro Tourism | Roads

If you really like driving then leaving the Lavender farm behind drive (to the left) another 10-15 km more toward the Jalan Gua Musang. On the way, you’ll get to see some real farm, warehouses, and hilly agricultural scenario. Quiet roads, the cold breeze will surely take your mind away. On the way, you’ll also find a BH petrol station, in case you need to fuel up. I really wish we had some more time to explore these farms.

5. Mount Gunung Brinchang – Cameron HighlandMount Gunung Brinchang - Cameron HighlandWatch Tower of Mount Gunung Brinchang - Cameron Highland

This is one of the must-visit attraction in Cameron Highland. The highest (2030m)mountain, Gunung Brinchang. Some who are adventurous type they like to hike to the top but you can also drive (as we did) to the top watch tower. There is a very narrow and curvy road to the top, you must be a good and careful driver to drive there. You can’t exactly reach the end of the top because the TM tower station is there but just before that there is a small watchtower for visitors. I and husband enjoyed the view a lot and this was totally worth out one and half hours of risky drive.

Miscellaneous Activities in Cameron Highland

All tourist site stays open up to 6pm only so in the evening there was nothing much to do in Cameron Highland. A few local markets stay open for a bit long so in the evening you may want to browse them for fresh veggies or plant. Boiled/roasted sweet potatoes are the most interesting street food I found there. They were uber sweet than usual potatoes I tested before. Steamboat buffet dinner seemed to be very popular there with very cheap pricing (the one we tried costs only 35RM/person). At the last day of our stay, I bought quite a few plants to bring home with me. And of course, as a souvenir, you can buy dry flowers like lavender, tea, and flower essential oil.

Other than these there are also a lot more attractive in Cameron like bee farm, butterfly farms etc. You might enjoy those as well if you are an insects lover.

 

Cameron Highland Travel Tips:

If you planning to visit Cameron Highland make sure you’re a good and safe driver or your driving partner is. You can go there by bus (which is quite cost effective) then hire motorbike there as well. Every hotel/resort there also offers package day trip, however, I don’t think a day is enough to enjoy the natural beauty there. Plan your journey ahead so you can manage time better, and to avoid driving around at the night. Trust me the curves are scary :p

Have you been to Cameron Highland? What are your favorite places in Cameron? Share in the comments.

PS: Till I pen down my next travel post, you can read up the article about MUST-HAVE holiday beauty essentials post.

Clinique 3 Step Skincare System | 3 Minute Twice A Day For Better Skin !?

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Skincare shouldn’t be complicated. The right product with the right amount should be enough. We all know about the vital steps of skincare; cleanse-tone-moisturize yet with Clinique it is Cleanse-exfoliate-moisturize with just three simple product that takes only 3 minutes. We all always in a quest to find the right skincare regime, aren’t we? And then the 1000 variety of products offered by varieties of brands makes us confused, we keep trying this and that and then sometimes we mostly waste a humongous amount of time/money without getting that expected result. The 3-Step Skincare concept by Clinique is surely unique and effective either way. I’m glad that I finally got on the bandwagon a month ago.

What is this 3-Step Skincare System?
As I mentioned earlier, cleanse, exfoliate and moisturize. Clinique offers a simplified 3-step skincare system with its 3 simple products; a cleanser, an exfoliant, and a moisturizer which are curated for every skin type. In a clinique boutique, you’ll always get help to analyze your skin and choose the right system/product for you. You’re to use them twice a day, which takes only 3 minutes each session and you’ll get clear, smooth, and radiant skin with the lowest effort.

In my session with a Clinique advisor, I was advised the 3-Step skincare system for dry-combination (I knew my skin type earlier as well) skin. After using them for a month now I’m here to share my thoughts on each of the products and how the ‘3 minute twice a day for better skin’ concept actually works.

First of all, packaging-wise, there is nothing to complain about or be overwhelmed about. They are nice sturdy and user-friendly. I love the simple, lightweight plastic packaging. Let’s talk about the product…


Clinique Liquid Facial SoapClinique Liquid Facial Soap - mild - for Dry Combination skin

Ingredients:
Water, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Chloride, Cocamidopropyl Hydroxysultaine, Lauramidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate, Tea-Cocoyl Glutamate, Di-PPG-2 Myreth-10 Adipate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, PEG-120 Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Sucrose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Cetyl Triethylmonium Dimethicone PEG-8 Succinate, Tocopheryl Ethyl Succinate Ethyldimonium Ethosulfate, Butylene Glycol, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria), Hexylene Glycol, Polyquaternium-7, Laureth-2, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Sulfate, Edta, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Benzoate, Phenoxyethanol

 
My Experience:

Even though it is a liquid face soap but it has just the right consistency, not as liquid as water. Glides on very easily and very much water-soluble. Doesn’t later up into a foam and a perfect companion for facial cleansing brushes like Clarisonic. Easy to rinse off as well. Although this is a mild formula it melts and cleanses every bit of dirt and oil from the face without drying out my skin. Skin feels nicely clean, fresh, oil-free, and comfortable after every wash. I’ll surely admit this liquid soap helps to balance out the oil on my face quite effectively.

I need just two pumps for my full face and neck and it does the job. It’s been a month, using it twice a day (morning and evening) and I’m yet to reach half of the bottle. I find it really good for the price.

Clinique Clarifying Lotion Twice A Day Exfoliator 2Clinique Clarifying Lotion - Dry Combination

Ingredient:

Water, Alcohol Denat., Glycerin, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel), Acetyl Gluco-Samine, Menthol, Trehalose, Sodium Hyaluronate, Butylene Glycol, Disodium Phosphate, Phenoxyethanol, Red 6, Red 33, Violet 2

 
My Experience:

Among the three products of the Clinique 3-Step Skincare System, this clarifying lotion is my favorite.
After washing my face with the cleanser I follow up with the clarifying lotion. I take just the generous amount (3 pours, the bottle mouth is open) in a cotton pad and then swipe all over my face and neck just once (the way I was suggested by the Clinique SA).

This is actually an alcohol-based (I was told the amount of alcohol is just sufficient and ‘cosmetic grade) exfoliant that helps to de-grease the skin and sweeps away dry/dulling flakes of skin. It feels cooling (probably because of containing menthol) on the skin and makes the skin ready to absorb further skincare products better. This product also feels nothing different than a regular toner to me, I honestly find it as the best toner I’ve used so far.

Clinique Clarifying Lotion is fragrance-free but you’ll get the scent of alcohol once the bottle cap is opened. Some skin might get irritation because of the alcohol but my skin kinda loves it. I find my T-zone is well oil-balanced ever since I’m using this.

Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion+Clinique Moistirizing lotion for Dry to Combination skin

Ingredients:
Water, Mineral Oil, Glycerin, Petrolatum, Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Oil, Urea, Lanolin Alcohol, Triethanolamine, Hordeum Vulgare (Barley) Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seedcake, Propylene Glycol Dicaprate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Trisodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Yellow 6, Yellow 5, Red 33.

 
My Experience:

Although my skin is dry-combination ( my T-zone is too oily, my under eye is always dehydrated) and this product is suggested for this type of skin, however, I find it a bit too much thick for my skin. After using the Clarifying Lotion, I take 2 pumps for my face and neck (as I was suggested), massage and blend into my skin. Just after the use skin feels great, non-greasy, smooth, supple and soft but after 30 minutes my T-zone starts feeling heavy. Thus, for the last couple of weeks, I’m using only one pump for my face and neck and it seems to work better as I lower the portion of the product. I love that the formula is fragrance-free (although I don’t have any problem with fragrance) and good for the dry parts of my face but next time I’m thinking to switch it to their moisturizing gel.

Overall, I’m pretty impressed with the Clinique 3-Step Skincare System. It truly makes a difference as it takes less time/product for complete skincare but keeps my skin healthy. However, as I’m in my late 20s and already got fine lines under my eyes so I couldn’t ignore using an eye cream on top of this skincare system.

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Shopping info:

Clinique Liquid Facial Soap | RM89
Clinique Clarifying Lotion Twice A Day Exfoliator  | RM89
Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion | RM 156

They are available at any clinique boutique or Sephora, nationwide. You can also purchase them online from their website.

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*** PR Sample.

LaVieEn Rose by Loreal Paris | find your Perfect Pink in Loreal Lipstick?

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I’m sure you’ve experienced that finding a perfect lip shade that matches our taste, skin tone and attire is not an easy job. It gets tougher when the color is Pink. I’m so happy that L’Oreal Paris thought about the fact and created La Vie En Rose Lipstick range, which offers 13 shades of pink lipsticks with the message that there’s a ‘Pink’ for every skin tone. L’Oreal Paris La Vie En Rose (Life is Pink) lipstick is an exclusive range of celebrity endorsement showing how those gorgeous ladies choose their perfect pink according to their taste. However, I’ve noticed that according to the geo-location there is a variation in the exclusive ambassador shades; eg. Loreal Paris India has Sonam and Katrina, Loreal Paris USA has Zoe and Frieda.

Loreal Paris La Vie En Rose Collection

I find it amazing that within this range of 13 pink shade you’ll find from an almost clear pink gloss to deep berry-ish shade. The collection Star Moist Mattes aren’t wholly matte but aims to meet everyone’s expectation, even if you are a fan of creamy or a non-glossy matte lipstick.

I’ve 12 shades from the La Vie En Rose collection here with me and the past couple of weeks I’ve been all about ‘Pink’ so that I can assist you guys choosing the perfect pink lipstick shade. Without further blabbering, I want to tell you about them and show you how they swatch.

Loreal Paris La Vie En Rose – Moist MatteLoreal Paris La Vie En Rose | Moist Matte

There are 9 shades of pink in La Vie En Rose Moist Matte Collection as followed…

  1. Naomi Watts – CP21 Jasmine
    – a peachy nude pink
  2. Blake Lively – CP24 primrose
    – a soft coral pink
  3. Aishwarya Rai – CP26 Iris
    – bright pink with warm tone
  4. Eva Longoria – CP27 Nymphea
    – a soft mauve pink
  5. Liya Kebede – CP28 Fuchsia
    – a true Fuchsia Pink
  6. Jenefer Lopez – CP29 Rose Lotus
    –  a deeper tone of Fuchsia with a blue undertone
  7. Doutzen Kroes – CP30 Camelia
    – a neon tone of lavender pink
  8. Chompoo Araya – CP31 Daisy
    – almost pastel barbie pink
  9. Barbara Pavlin – CP32 RoseMary
    – mistakenly, I haven’t got this particular shade so can’t explain about this one.

Loreal Paris La Vie En Rose | Moist Matte

My experience with these Loreal Lipsticks:

I love the packaging, of course, they are nice and sleek with a 4.2g of lipstick bullet. That button-like color display on the packaging somewhat helps to determine the color without opening the lid. Although the color display isn’t true to the actual lipstick shade.

La Vie En Rose Moist Matte lipsticks are waxier in texture rather creamier. I can relate the claim being moist-matte as they’re not overly matte, to be more precise they are semi-matte in the finish. Lighter shades like Naomi and Chompoo apply patchy on my lips due to their waxiness, deeper shades apply nicely and evenly. They are quite comfortable on lips as well and doesn’t make lips dry. Deeper color leaves a stain and lighter ones don’t. They last a good amount of time (3/4 hours) on lip only if you don’t eat/drink or keep your lips untouched. Otherwise, they transfer just like any other typical lipstick.

My nose failed to detect any scent in these lipsticks so I believe they’ve no fragrance in them. These lipsticks are mainly sheer-medium in opacity, in one swipe they don’t give the full-color form. For fuller coverage, I needed to apply two to three layer. Those, who have a natural pink lip and love is gonna love the finish of this Loreal Paris La Vie En Rose Moist Matte lipstick range.

My favorites from this range are Blake, Eva, Liya & JLO.

Swatch of them on my lip and hand are below…

Loreal Paris La Vie En Rose Lipstick SwatchLoreal Paris La Vie En Rose Lipstick SwatchLoreal Paris La Vie En Rose Lipstick SwatchLoreal Paris La Vie En Rose Lipstick SwatchLoreal Paris La Vie En Rose Moist Matte Lipstick Swatch

Loreal Paris La Vie En Rose Lipstick SwatchLoreal Paris La Vie En Rose Lipstick SwatchLoreal Paris La Vie En Rose Lipstick SwatchLoreal Paris La Vie En Rose Lipstick SwatchLoreal Paris La Vie En Rose Moist Matte Lipstick Swatch

Loreal Paris La Vie En Rose – L’extraordinaireLoreal Paris La Vie En Rose | L'extraordinaire

L’extraordinaire range of La Vie En Rose is mainly some luscious glosses. There are 4 shades in this range as followed…

  1. Barbara Pavlin – CPB1 Rose
    – this is almost clear in color, there is just a hint of pink
  2. Fan Bing Bing – CPM6 Peony
    – it’s more of a pastel pink
  3. Gong Li – CPM4 Lilac
    – close to Fan’s pink but with a blue/lilac undertone
  4. Julianne Moore – CPM12 Magnolia
    – this one is a rich berry pink

Loreal Paris La Vie En Rose | L'extraordinaire

My experience:

Again some elegant packaging with 4.2g of product, love it. Only Barbara has a shiny packaging because the finish of the gloss is also shiny, the other three has a matte finish in the packaging. The doe foot applicator is also great in quality. These glosses are very hydrating on lips, not sticky but very smooth. They have a mild scent, something sweet yet there is a zing (I’m bad at describing fragrance) but very mild.

Mattes are not as glossy as the glossy one, Barabara, is. They’re nicely pigmented, thus can be worn alone for a sheer touch or as a topper to achieve a dimensional pout. I’m sure lip gloss lovers are gonna love these La Vie En Rose L’extraordinaire rage.

Swatch of them on my lip and hand are below… as Barbara is a clear shade I wore is as a topper.

Loreal Paris La Vie En Rose Lipstick SwatchLoreal Paris La Vie En Rose Lipstick SwatchLoreal Paris La Vie En Rose Lipstick SwatchLoreal Paris La Vie En Rose Lipstick SwatchLoreal Paris La Vie En Rose L'extraordinaire Lipstick Swatch

This new range of La Vie En Rose is created to offer every woman her tailor-made pink, each inspired by one of the brand’s spokespeople and composed by its color designer Eva Yean.

If you ask me which one I find as #MyOneTruePink in this range then it has to be Eva Longoria’s pink (CP27 Nymphea). I’m truly obsessed with this shade, goes amazingly with my tawny skin and my color taste. As because Eva isn’t much bright I can rock this one any time of the day as well.

So which one you think is the best match for you? Have you tried these lipsticks yet?

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Shopping Info:

  • Collection Star Moist Matte La Vie En Rose Lipstick – RM 38.05
  • Collection Star L’Extraordinaire La Vie En Rose Lipstick – RM 42.30

Available at any pharmacies; eg. Guardian and Watson etc. You can also get them online at Hermo MY.

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*** PR Sample.

Difference Maker, A Bangladeshi Beauty Blogger | turning life’s pivotal moments with courage to be ‘SELF’

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“When it is about being a Difference Maker, specifically as a Bangladeshi Beauty Blogger,  no I don’t aim to be one, in particular, to get called my name. But we all have so many stories in our life where we did make that worthful decision that eventually guided us to where now we stand. A good slice of experience, where we made a difference for ourselves, can inspire other to get the courage may be they need badly right at the moment.

I express my gratitude to Clinique Malaysia for showing interest in my story, walking down the path for GreenStory. I thankful from the bottom of my heart that Clinique Malaysia honored nominating GreenStory as a Difference Maker.

 

Not only because of the nomination but I also felt like to share some words about my blogging journey as my word to be a ‘Difference Maker’. If you’re feeling like to start blogging or a brand new blogger already, dreaming about the shiny side of blogging then my short story might help you to determine your future path.

 

How I started my blogging journey?

In 2011, when I was in London doing my MA, out of nowhere I decided to write a blog. Inconsistent me actually re-started blogging in 2012 when I felt the need to blog again because there was none in the context of Bangladesh. I started as one of the first few bloggers of Bangladesh. Even then I didn’t really know anything about my niche, technical facts, the craze in the blogging world but only one thing was In my mind that I want to share my thoughts and experiences so that BD people get at least something when they search the web for help.

Long story short, after a couple of years I kind of got hold on things and started working with a few brands, and more importantly, as a beauty writer for the most popular national newspaper of Bangladesh, ‘Prothom Alo’, as a beauty blogger. It was a blessing that for the first time a national publishing media valued words of a beauty blogger.

However, there is always the dark side of the moon. Through my blog and my words I was always promoting truthfulness and tried to teach people, there is more than aesthetic. And within another year one of the biggest beauty company who rules the beauty market of BD approach me.

 

What did they want from a beauty blogger?

They wanted my blog to be their words for their product and obviously with some other clause.
I asked, why would I do that?
They said, “ah, you’ll be paid a handsome amount”. With a big smile.

I still remember that moment how surprised I was! I literally asked the same question three times. I’m sure the facing person was surprised seeing me asking the question over and over when they already offered me a handful of money to sell out my ethics, my passion, my truthfulness and my little immature baby blog, ‘GreenStory’.

Although I was literally nothing as a blogger that time I did happily turned them down. Don’t be doubtful, I don’t work for free, I do care about the value of my work and time but I wasn’t/will never be poor enough to sell out my principles.

 

Its been around 5 years I’m serving as a beauty and lifestyle blogger. Being different didn’t change who I am!

I wanted to make a difference to my country, as one of the few niche Bangladesh bloggers. It wasn’t easy but I finally got there & stuck to my principles as a blogger, as a writer. I’m not a full-time blogger, my blog doesn’t feed me but that is OK bcoz it’s my passion and I do take passion AKA blogging very seriously. If I don’t sugarcoat, being a blogger is not a walk in the garden that leads you to a comfy Jacuzzi. I went through a lot of lush proposals, community difference, some said, “Why you’re so modest, you’ve no idea what you can do”, bullies, cons also with pros, sometimes nasty competitive behavior by blogging buddies; besides everything my commitments has always been solid.

On an international scale, most are usually American or British so the world doesn’t know much about Asia and us. I might not be the most popular blogger ever, I might not earn a K-figure through my blog, I might not make a huge difference but I believe I do MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

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Althea Korea Birthday Bash | My Favorite K-beauty Shopping Destination

Today all my social media feed is literally flooded by Althea Korea birthday celebration. Why wouldn’t it be? Afterall Althea is everyone’s favorite, including mine. Can’t believe it was just the last year today when althea born first here in Malaysia and by this one year, it’s already winged out to five other countries. No wonder why, they offer the market-beating price, best customer service and authentic product of course. Shopping Korean product from Korea has never been so easier before Althea.

My warmest hug to Althea and the whole Althea team for their successful one year🎉

 

And for you guys… just look below the amazing offers they are offering to celebrate their birthday 🙂

Althea Korea’s Birthday Celebration Promos [20th – 31st July 2016]

  • Limited Edition Birthday Box + DIY Party Kit
    For orders placed on 20/7 onwards. While stocks last.
  • Free Goodies for first 1,500 shoppers
    Full-size beauty products. While stocks last. Use code ‘AltheaTurns1’
  • Birthday Giveaway. Pick 3 Top Sellers for 100% REBATE!
    The rebate will be credited to your account.
  • #AltheaTurns1 Instagram Contest
    – Got your Althea party kit? Wish us a happy birthday with #altheaturns1 and stand a chance to win amazing prizes such as Macbook Air, Ipad Air 2, iPhone 6S, Galaxy S6 Edge, Canon EOS M10 Selfie Camera, Althea credits and beauty hampers from Althea!
    *Prizes total worth KRW10,000,000 to be won.
    *Contest starts from 20th July – 15th August 2016.

*terms & conditions apply.

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And here comes my Althea Birthday Bash Haul. I’ve already blogged about my shopping experience with Althea earlier and I assure you their service is still up to the mark.

Althea Korea Haul 2016

What I got in my Althea Korea Haul this time?

  1. Witch’s Pouch Selfie Fix Pigment – RM20.00
  2. CP-1 Raspberry Hair Vinegar – RM31.00
  3. Skin Food Black Sugar Strawberry Mask Wash Off – RM27.00
  4. Laneige Water Bank Gel Cream_EX – RM98.00

and rest are gifts from Althea. They never forget to add one or two sample product whenever you order something 🙂

 

Get on your Korean shopping guys, don’t miss this fabulous chance!

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Shopping Info:

Visit ALTHEA Website
You can also receive an additional discount of 5RM[using my code ‘ GreenStory’] + 30RM[new signup credit]

Want to save some more?
Shop Via ShopBack (read all about my ShopBack experience) to get up to 10% cashback.

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Petite version of CLARISONIC – Mia & Alpha FIT | New Beauty Gadget to Covet

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I’m such a bad blogger that I haven’t posted anything detailed about my much-loved cleansing device Clarisonic Mia 2 but just a few little word in my previous post. However, I’m happy to let you guys know that Clarisonic recently introduced the first-ever compact version of their cleansing gadget Mia FIT and a specially designed one just for men – Alpha FIT.

 

About Clarisonic:

Clarisonic invented sonic skin cleansing in 2004 and today has sold over 10 million of its patented – and much loved – devices that help to reveal younger-looking skin. Available in more than 50 countries around the world, Clarisonic’s mission is to beautifully transform skin and it does that by cleansing skin 6X better than hands alone. Gentle enough for twice-a-day use, they are the #1 most recommended by US dermatologists. Clarisonic’s award-winning devices are distributed through dermatologists, cosmetic surgeons, spas, prestige retailers and online at Clarisonic.com. Clarisonic is headquartered in Redmond, Washington, USA and is part of the L’Oreal Group.

 

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Clarisonic Mia FIT | Compact Sonic Cleansing Device for Women

Upgrade Your Outdated Skin Cleansing Routine with a New Clarisonic Device That Provides the Gift of Healthy-Looking Skin into the Palm of Your Hand.

Clarisonic®, the creator of the #1 bestselling skin cleansing device today introduces MIA FIT–it’s most compact and versatile device yet. This new device provides a gentle and effective cleanse wherever your life takes you – the gym, the aeroplane, work or home. Cleansing with Mia FIT only takes 60 seconds and the result is skin that that looks and feels amazing. The Mia FIT has the power of a full- sized Clarisonic device in a new design that is half the size– delivering a gentle on-the-go cleanse that is 6X better than using hands alone.

Clarisonic Mia FIT is specifically engineered for women who need a skincare routine that easily fits their busy lives. This travel-friendly design is comfortable to hold and is small enough to stash in a gym bag, carry-on or bathroom drawer. Like Alpha Fit, Clarisonic’s first-ever men’s device, Mia FIT features both a new shape and two streamlined settings to target every cleansing need. Setting 1 provides a 60-second delicate cleanse for everyday impurities, and Setting 2 provides an 80-second power cleanse, perfect for after workouts or for long-wear makeup removal. The Mia FIT also comes in three beautiful shades – pink, blue and white.

In a consumer study*after four weeks of using a Mia FIT daily regimen:

  • 96% report having softer, smoother and more refreshed feeling skin.
  • 100% claim the regimen effectively removes impurities from the skin.
  • 94% claim their skin looks more radiant.
  • 100% agree their skin feels deeply cleansed after use. 
Despite millions of passionate Clarisonic device owners, sonic cleansing is still an investment (which I personally strongly believe) that many of you haven’t made yet. An online survey conducted by Harris Poll* found that 52% of adults still use their hands to cleanse their face. The study also found that over half of the women agree that great skin is more important than a great body, and 89% of women agree that they feel more confident when their skin is clear and youthful-looking. 
“People embrace the latest innovations in every aspect of their life – so why not think twice about what you’re using to cleanse your skin?” said Dr. Robb Akridge, co-founder and global president of Clarisonic. “Wash cloths and hands have been used to cleanse skin for generations because people still believe that these outdated routines deliver great results. Every Clarisonic device, including our new Mia FIT, provides a better, more effective way to have clean, soft and healthy-looking skin.”

The new Mia FIT also features the Radiance Brush Head with smooth, soft bristles that deliver a luxurious and effective cleansing experience. This unique and patented brush head is velvety-soft and helps to improve skin texture. Every Mia FIT sold also includes the Skin Illuminating Cleanser that is formulated with Licorice Root extract, Peppermint Leaf extract and Ginko Biloba Leaf extract to provide a more radiant complexion.

 

Clarisonic Alpha Fit – Just For Men

More than Half of the Men in around the world are washing their faces with something as dirty as a circulated Ringgit notes…Their Hands!

Clarisonic® is asking men and the people who love them to up their game with skin care. As many of us have witnessed, men typically don’t take care of their face (my man totally doesnt…phew!). An online survey commissioned by Clarisonic and conducted among over 2,000 adults confirmed that men aren’t taking care of their faces as well as they could be. Sure, some men shave, but when it comes to cleansing their face, a majority (56%) use their hands – with one-third (33%*) doing so with body wash or a bar of soap, 14%* using facial cleanser, and 9%* using their hands with just plain water. Alpha Fit, Clarisonic’s new sonic cleansing device for men, is designed to cleanse men’s skin 6X better than using hands alone and effectively cleanse both shaven and bearded skin.

Clarisonic Alpha Fit is specifically engineered to sweep away dirt, oil, sweat and pollution from a man’s tougher, thicker skin from the first use giving you the extra clean feeling. The waterproof, compact design fits easily in a suitcase, gym bag, shower or bathroom cabinet and features a unique men’s brush head jam-packed with 26,000 bristles that are 30X better at removing blackheads. The technology is easy to use with two simple settings – one for clean-shaven skin and one for the bearded skin. In another recent study conducted by Clarisonic, after a month of use, 100% of men felt their skin was cleaner, more comfortable, and smoother2, and more than 90% felt their skin was energized, revived, and hydrated.

“We’re thrilled to announce that Alpha Fit is available across the nation for all men to use and experience just how great it feels to have clean and healthy-looking skin,” said Dr. Robb Akridge, co- founder and global president of Clarisonic. “For over a decade, Clarisonic has been loved by women and men alike. But let’s face it, men’s skin is different and they deserve a Clarisonic device built just for them – providing a great cleanse, a better shaving experience and a way to clean the hard-to-reach skin underneath the facial hair.”

Alpha Fit isn’t an extra step for men in their cleansing regimen, just a better one. To explain why cleansing with hands alone isn’t good enough, Clarisonic created an infographic sharing the results of the Harris poll and what those results mean when it comes to cleansing skin.

Hands are the most exposed part of the body to germs, and on average, a man’s hand carries 3,200 bacteria from 150 species (about the same amount as found on a circulated dollar bill). Plus, men (17%) are more likely than women (12%) to admit they do not always wash their hands after using the bathroom and men (76%) are significantly less likely than women (82%) to say they always use soap when washing their hands. Not only are they using those dirty hands to wash their face, if they’re using a bar of soap to wash their face instead, which can actually dry out your skin, it can be assumed that they are also using the same bar of soap or cleanser to clean their feet, their derriere, and some other body parts that shall remain nameless.

Clarisonic aims to remind each man that investing in his face is the most important, most authentic, most long-term investment he can make. He is likely to spend hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars on his shoes, his watch, his car—his image. So why not his face?

 

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Shopping Info:

Mia FIT and Alpha FIT (RM890) will be available from August onwards at CLARISONIC KIOSK & SEPHORA, nationwide.
International can buy from Nordstrom (they’re having a huge sale until July’16)

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*** Press Release.
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Kat Von D Liquid Lipstick Swatches | How they wear, dark shades and more!

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Am I the last one who jumped off in the Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick ocean? Probably! …and I surely regret being this late because they are so good.
Last May’16 my husband got me five of the Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick (gift of some special occasion) and that was the first time I got to try them. Just with the first try, I knew that I love them and I went ahead and bought three more. I’m also pretty sure will be getting a few more shade once Kat Von D lands here in Malaysia.

Speaking of Kat Von D’s launch in Malaysia, Yass! They’re going to be available here in Sephora Malaysia from this coming 7th of July or so. Agh! can’t wait for that!

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick

Just like all other liquid lipstick Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipsticks also comes in a tube packaging. What makes them different from others is the slim tube and signature Kav Von D artwork. The paper box they come with were more attractive however, I never keep the paper box.
The sponge doe-foot applicator is very well made and dispense just the right amount of product each time you take it out from the tube. Each tube contains .22oz of product and one layer of the application gives the full-color opacity.

My Experience with Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick:

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick Swatch

Last time when I reviewed Ofra Liquid Lipstick I said they were the best liquid lipstick I have tried so far. Now at this point, I have a change in my thought, I love Kat Von D more now because these are way more lightweight than Ofra. Although they are different in texture, Ofra has a mousse texture and doesn’t completely dry out where Kat Von D dries out completely matte. Unlike other liquid lipstick, that dries out matte, Kat von D doesn’t give that extreme dried out lips (they’re not hydrating either) and they feel comfortable. They don’t budge, feather or flakes but stays put all day long. However maybe around 6th or 7th hour, you might feel the need of chapstick to rehydrate your lips.

Initially, Kat Von D apply smoothly and gives enough time to work them on the lip, then(after a minute) they dry out. Unlike other liquid lipstick, that dries out matte, Kat von D doesn’t give that extreme dried out lips (they’re not hydrating either) and they feel comfortable. They don’t budge, feather or flakes but stays put all day long. However maybe around 6th or 7th hour, you might feel the need of chapstick to rehydrate your lips.

I absolutely love how pigmented they are and how smoothly they apply, although a couple of shade I have needs a second layer for smooth color pay off and I don’t mind that.

 

Lip swatches of the Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipsticks below. Note that here I applied only one layer of each.

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick – Damned:

Kat-Von-D-Damned

Damned is a blackened Maroon with a cherry-ish undertone. It photographs lighter than real and if you layer two or more coats it appears almost close to black in my skin. This is surely the darkest lip shade I own so far but I love it.

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick – Vampira:

Kat-Von-D-Vampira

Vampira is an amazingly perfect blood red. I don’t have a proper word to describe the shade but you know how the blood looks when it’s close to dry, a bit black-ish, a bit maroon and there is also some kinda warmth in it.

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick – Bauhau5:

Kat-Von-D-Bauhau5

Bauhau5 is a bright blue tone magenta. A close shade to Bourjois Velvet Matte Ping-pong, Too Faced Melted Fuchsia and Lime Crime Cenrtifuchsia. The vividness Bauhau5 has will make you fall in love with it.

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick – Ayesha:

Kat-Von-D-Ayesha

I have quite a few lilac lip shade. Among all, I feel Ayesha is the most wearable one because this one is muted and sorta dusty shade of lilac. I was a bit hesitant before trying it out, thought it might look washed out in my tan skin (like my Lime Crime Airborne Unicorn does to some extent). Luckily, it didn’t. Then again it is not always easy to pair a lilac shade of lipstick, isn’t it?

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick – Lolita:

Kat-Von-D-Lolita

Who doesn’t know about Lolita, the most raved shade of Kat Von D liquid lipstick? It’s described as a chestnut rose. In my eyes, Lolita is a muted mauve-brown, appears deeper once it dries out or if you apply the second layer. I’m not sure if I love the shade as much as everyone does, I like the shade Lolita 2 better.

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick – Lolita II:

Kat-Von-D-Lolita-2

Lolita 2 is a warm brown, sometimes it feels slightly coral in my lip. I find it very flattering in my skin and ever since I got Lolita 2 it became my everyday lip shade.

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick – Double Dare:

Kat-Von-D-Double-Dare-1

The shade Double Dare is described as Cocoa Blush. It’s a rosy and soft coral brown, so subtle and a perfect shade for everyday use. You might find it similar to Lolita or lolita 2 but they are not. Although they fall in the same nude-brown color family. However, there is a huge difference in their undertone.

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick – LoveSick:

Kat-Von-D-Lovesick

Lovesick a soft and muted pink (described as a mauve nude). I love the softness of the shade but I find this shade is a bit hard to go on in my lips. In one layer it applies a bit sticky.

So yeah, my recent liquid lipstick love is, without any doubt, Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick. I highly recommend them If you want to pucker up with some lightweight and best quality liquid lipstick.

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Shopping Info:

Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipstick | RM99 | $20 (at Sephora MY & Sephora USA)
*** All KVD products are available at Sephora.

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