Saturday, July 11, 2015

I know it's been a while since I last posted - May 2015, maybe?

This post about the June 2015 BDJBox is a little late, but I do hope you won't mind.

After months of consecutive 'large' BDJBoxes, the 'smaller' box finally steals the spotlight this month. No worries, because it's packed of goodies that you won't find at a cheaper price anywhere else.

So, here, we got some samples from Bioderma, and a Lip and Cheek Stain in full size from The Body Shop.

I'll give you a brief information about Bioderma, in case this is the first time you've heard about the brand.

Bioderma is 'biology at the service of dermatology'. And as its tagline implies, Bioderma aims to imitate its [the skin's] natural biological mechanisms through their components and their modes of action

If you made a quick search on Bioderma, you'll soon realize that this is no 'chipipay' brand. It's in the Php 1500 and above price range!

Anyway, let's move on and take a good look at each product included in the box.


The Body Shop Lip and Cheek Stain (8ml FULL SIZE) - Php 795


This dual-purpose stain from The Body Shop gives your lips and cheeks a healthy-looking glow with one was of color, or builds up for a richer, deeper coverage. Used alone, it’s a sheer strain, but can also be used as a great base for lip and even cheek products for a longer-lasting flush. Its moisturizing formulation helps to condition the skin with Vitamin E.
I initially thought that this is a BIODerma Exclusive box, until I saw this TBS product included. Also, it's the only product that is not in sample size - at least.

Ever since I heard about The Body Shop, I've always considered using any product from their makeup line. Sad to say, though, I don't earn much to be able to splurge on a single lip/cheek tint above the Php 500 mark.

I'm glad that BDJ Box gave me a chance to own one, despite the huge pricetag most TBS products come with. At regular price, this 8ml lip/cheek tint costs Php 795 a pop! And, it's in full size. Mine came in shade #1: Rose Pink.

For now, I couldn't really tell how it would look on my skin, but I'm not opening this one yet.


Sensibio H20 (10ml sample)


Gently cleanse your skin with this ultra-mild, non-rinse micellar water cleanser and make-up remover. Create to suit the needs of those who experience skin irritation and redness, the alcohol-free formula soothes and cools as it cleanses. The cleanser removes impurities using micelles, which micro-emulsify impurities while maintaining the skin’s balance. Soak a cotton pad with the solution, and cleanse the face and eyes. 
When it comes to skincare, cleansing is probably the most important step. Skip everything else, just don't skip the cleansing part.

I have to be honest, one look at these Bioderma products and I personally find them quite unappealing. It's not just about the packaging; maybe it's because of the sizes of these things. Or the derma jargon that is in the description.

Too technical, maybe? Read the rest of the product descriptions and tell me what you think.

But, I think everything included in this box are all good stuff - and like I said, the only downside is its lack of charm...

Or, maybe, it's just me...


Sensibio Light (5ml sample)


This silky everyday moisturizer protects the complexion from eternal aggravators, and works to build the skin’s own tolerance over time with the patented Toleridine complex. Formulated with rigorously selective active ingredients, it is an ideal step in the treatment of sensitive skin.Over time tightness and overheating of the skin is reduced thanks to the restoration of the cutaneous barrier. In its place is a supple, comfortable and less inflamed complexion. 
I absolutely love moisturizers, and I have a feeling that I might actually like this one.

It's formulated for the treatment of sensitive skin. I don't have sensitive skin. Mine is basically normal/combination, but nobody said I couldn't use it!

Photoderm Max (5ml sample)


With maximum anti-UV B and extreme anti-UV A performance, it guarantees optimum protection against sunburn, sun intolerance and premature ageing. Exclusive patented Cellular BIOprotection complex effectively shields the skin against risks of cell damage. The melting texture feels very comfortable on the complexion and is perfectly colourless when applied, leaving no trace of white marks or a greasy film. 

Among the Bioderma bunch, this product is probably the most intriguing - at least for me.

Look, SPF 100, ladies!

I couldn't remember using anything more than SPF50.

They say, the higher the SPF, the heavier the product becomes when applied on the skin. I hope it doesn't work that way for this product.


Atoderm Preventive (8ml sample)


Limit the aggravation of very dry skin from birth with a delicate formula created for infants and children. It has been developed to intensively restore the integrity of the skin barrier by strengthening and protecting young skin, ensuring that the evolution from dryness to atopic dermatitis in childhood is prevented. With its quick application and ultra-comfortable texture, skin is soothed swiftly and durably.
This is the very first time I heard of "congenital dry skin".  Of course, I made the term up.

Who knew that dry skin is a problem since birth! I really had no idea!

And this product, is possibly the first of its kind to treat dry skin for babies.


Sebium Pore Refiner (5ml sample)



This targeted daily treatment works to tighten pores that are dilated, prevent imprefections, and mattify the skin both immediately and over the long term, thanks to the astringent and pore minimizer property of Fomes Officinalis (mushroom extract). Antioxidants boost the skin’s radiance and protect it from external aggressors. The lightweight, fluid formula melts into skin instantly, and creates and excellent base for make-up application.
This thing kind of reminds me of Benefit's Porefessional Primer and Skinfood's Egg Pore Primer.

However, unlike the first two I mentioned, the Sebium Pore Refiner promises to work long-term on the skin.

Interesting, right?

Sebium AKN (5ml sample)


This non-comedogenic treatment cleanses the pores in depth while slowing the overproduction of sebum. It also smooths the skin’s texture over time, ensuring that it looks clear and more uniform. Soothing ingredients reduce irritation and diminish the appearance of redness, and hydrating agents to make sure the skin is comfortable and soft. The light texture is rapidly absorbed and makes a great make-up base. 
Here's another make-up base, which claims the following:

  • Slow sebum overproduction
  • Smooths skin
  • Soothe irritation
  • Diminish redness
  • Hydrates skin
I personally don't have major problems with my pores, but in some occasions, dry skin is a problem. Come to think of it, I sometimes have problems with sebum - thanks to hormonal imbalance. 


Sensibio DS+ (5ml sample)



This is an intensely calming moisturizer with a lightweight texture. Designed for those who have sebhorrhoeic dermatitis, its soothing formula works to relieve high color and smooth the skin using a dual anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory action. It uses a targeted action to boost the skin’s healing process, while the patented natural DAF complex improves the skin’s tolerance threshold,. Its pleasant, non-oily gel-cream texture provides in instant comfort. 

Atoderm Intensive (8ml sample)


When skin is atopic and dry, it can be extremely irritable, itchy and uncomfortable. The Intensive Soothing Emollient Care is created with Bioderma’s exclusive Skin Barrier Therapy complex, which restores the integrity of the skin barrier, prevents the penetration of allergens and enhances suppleness and comfort. Added Zinc and Betasitosterol provide intense anti-inflammatory care, and helps to stop the itch.
These last two products are for people whose skin are waaaay more sensitive than the rest of the population. It's amazing how Bioderma addresses these problems head on!

I don't have major problems with my skin, but I do hope these things could help those who have been suffering skin problems for so long.

OVERALL

This box, in my opinion, is an 'okay' box. To be brutally honest, I didn't really find this box exciting, nor interesting. Like I mentioned, I think the items inside lacked the 'charm' to make us all giddy during unboxings.

But I do commend BDJBox for including these high-end products in this box. To include samples from Bioderma, for one, may be a feat on its own; such products may be very difficult to obtain for the price that we paid for.

We only paid Php 580, but we received much, much more than we deserve!

Thanks BDJBox!

How about you? Are these products worth it?

Let me know by commenting below!

Love,


Marie
[DISCLAIMER] This is NOT a sponsored or paid advertisement.  

MARIE (the author of this blog) chose to buy the said beauty box at her own expense. Please note that the reviews are not by any chance made by an expert on makeup and skincare; these reviews are all based on the author’s limited knowledge, thoughts, and opinions. 
If you have beauty products that you’d like me to review, let me know! 
Do you have any business inquiries? Please send me a message to: newbeeworld31@gmail.com























Unboxing Post: BDJBox June 2015 - Bioderma Exclusive Box

Saturday, May 2, 2015

December is the best time of the year, for a shopaholic like me! You know why?

A lot of stuff are on SALE! Marked down! Discounted! Freebies! 

And the list is endless!

Last December 2014, I splurged on some items that can only be bought in the US, including ELF! I got a chance to 'shop' because I have some relatives in the US, who have been very, very supportive with my addiction. I asked them to shop some stuff for me, and they sent the stuff out through a Balikbayan box.

Thank you! Thank you! 

The good thing is ... I got them all at a fraction of a price! STEAL!

It took a couple of months for the box to arrive. In fact, I got this sometime in March, but never had the chance to write about it until now. 

Sorry...

In case you're not aware, ELF in ELF Cosmetics stands for 'Eyes, Lips, and Face'. ELF is a drugstore brand - but nonetheless a very popular choice among beauty gurus and even budget beautyholics! 

Watsons and other stores carry ELF Cosmetics. Sad to say, though, the only line the local stores carry is the ELF Essential Line. Most of the raved products come from the ELF Studio Line and Mineral Line.  

Just a reminder though, I'm not posting this to brag about the things I bought. I simply think that posting something like this could help you in your 'beauty' decisions sometime in the future. 

Now, let's get on to business.

ELF Studio 2-in-1 Sponge (Pack of 3) 




If you're like me who's into BB Cream/CC Cream/Liquid foundation application, you might find this sponge a useful addition to your makeup tools kit. It features 2 different textures - one side is designed to act like your typical makeup sponge (think Marionnaud sponges), while the other side is a 'fuzzy sponge', to act as a powder puff.

I find both sides very useful. The sponge makes it easier to blend creams and liquid foundation, while the fluffier side makes it easy for me to set powder foundation.

I absolutely love these sponges, so I'm looking forward to buying more of these in my next ELF Haul.

ELF Essentials Powder Puffs




I'll have to be honest, the moment I got my hands on these things, I felt instant buyer's remorse. However, sad to say, there's no turning back.

First off, these are supposed to be powder puffs. Correct me if I'm wrong, but powder puffs are supposed to be soft, aren't they?

And they're not supposed to feel like cheap cut-outs from 'labakaras' or towelettes, right?

These 'puffs' look and feel cheap, and most of all, I don't think they could help with powders at all.

Sorry ELF. I have no use for these, really.

ELF Blending Wedges 




I bought these because I love blending out BB Creams using sponges. I haven't tried these yet, but I think they'll work out just fine.

ELF Studio 11-Piece Brush Collection





What is makeup without makeup brushes?

When I first tried ELF brushes (sometime in 2008), I was extremely amazed by how they felt on the skin, despite being so affordable. Back then, I was clinging on to my ELF Mineral Kabuki brush, which is now, by the way, phased out.

But, no worries!

Based on the quality of these brushes, I think they have significantly improved the quality of their brushes! And to think, I was already very happy with the one that I got.

This ELF Studio 11-Piece Brush Collection contains an (1) Eyeshadow "C" Brush, (2) Complexion Brush, (3) Small Angled Brush, (4) Small Smudge Brush, (5) Fan Brush, (6) Powder Brush, (7) Angled Foundation Brush, (8) Concealer Brush, (9) Small Precision Brush, (10) Blush Brush, and a (11) Contouring Brush. All of the brushes comes with a sleek, water-resistant case.

ELF Mineral Waterproof Shadow Liner (Brown) 



The ELF Mineral Water Proof Shadow in Brown

The ELF Mineral Water Proof Shadow in Brown (Smudged) 

I forgot why I bought this particular eyeliner, but to my surprise, it's not bad after all!

Its texture is similar to that of a crayon, but if you could take a close look at the photo, you'll notice that it has a gel-like substance to it. I think they added the gel, to make the product easy to blend, should you decide to use the color as an eyeshadow and not as an eyeliner.

ELF Studio High Definition Powder 




This product from ELF is a popular item among beauty bloggers and/or vloggers. I heard a lot of raves from this HD Powder. According to most raves, this is perfect for creating a flawless coverage.

Sure enough, this is something that I couldn't miss! I hope this works!


ELF Studio Baked Blush (Peachy Cheeky, Pinkstatic, Passion Pink, Rich Rose) 


If there's only one thing that you could try from ELF, it should be one of their blushes! - at least that's what I heard from 'online beauty influencers'. I use blushes regularly, so a few affordable blushes shouldn't hurt.

Plus, they look gorgeous! I wonder which one I'd try first! 

ELF Studio Contouring Blush and Bronzing Cream 


I have been eyeing this duo since it came out, and finally, I now have it in my own hands! Haha! 

I haven't tried this one out, but I'll let you know how this will work out for me. 

ELF Pressed Mineral Blush 







These blushes look simple as compared to the ones I mentioned earlier. They look similar to the blushes from the Essential Line. I think the only difference (visually) is the extra shimmer these Mineral blushes have.

Nonetheless, they're fun to have.

ELF Studio Eyebrow Kit




If you're an 'eyebrow' person, you'd most likely be drawn towards this eyebrow kit. It comes with a sleek casing, with a convenient mirror attached, too. 

The darker shade you see is a gel, while the other one is in powder form. 

This reminds me of the Avon Eyebrow Kit, but I think this one's much more affordable. 

ELF Studio Prism Eyeshadow







These palettes are a dream come true. Everyone was raving about how great these palettes are!

They are creamy;
They are so pigmented;
They are easy to blend;
And, they're so gorgeous!

I know buying two of these palettes may sound too much, but I'm a having a bit of regret for not buying the rest of it! I think ELF released four variants of this palette, and I only got two!

ELF Eyebrow Stencil Kit and Retractable Lip Brush




I bought the stencil kit to help make eyebrow styling a bit less of a chore. However, I must say, that I'm a bit disappointed with it. I thought the stencils would be made of a hard and stiff material, only to find out later on that it's not. I find the stencil pretty useless for styling, so I had to throw them away. I have no idea how to use them, really. 

The retractable lip brush is okay, but it's not special - just your typical retractable lip brush. 

ELF Mineral Eyeshadow Primer


A good palette wouldn't show its full potential without the help of the good old eyeshadow primer. This is my first time to get my hands on ELF's Mineral Eyeshadow Primer.

I haven't had the chance to try it out, though.

Conclusion

ELF is a wonderful brand. They've been around for awhile now, but I noticed that they've been making the effort to constantly improve the quality of their products. Sure, there are things that I happen to 'hate' from ELF, but there are even more things that I love! Why would I go the extra mile to buy ELF Cosmetics if it wasn't for my loyalty?

I love ELF, and I'm looking forward to trying out more products from them!

Haul Post: Eyes Lips Face ELF 2015 and Reviews

Thursday, April 30, 2015

Since January 2014, the Belle de Jour team, aka BDJ Team, has been making each month extra special for me.

The moment a box reaches my doorstep, I'm always filled with excitement! I feel like I have a 'birthday present every month! 

And here's my 'birthday present' for this month:


I got this two weeks ago - so sorry for this very late post. To tell you the truth, I was extremely busy with my summer adventures. I hope you've had your share of fun and excitement as well!

So moving on...

The BDJ Box April 2015 is the Spring into Beauty box! 


Soooo full of goodies!


Let's take a look, one by one! 

Revlon Highlighting Palette, 7.5g - Php 625



Simplify your look this month with something light and fresh! The highlighting palette gives you an all-over sunkissed glow for day to night. It has complimentary shimmer shades which are easy to blend and enhance the complexion for a radiant sun-kissed look. It works well as highlighter, eyeshdow and blush giving you a multi-dimensional sculpted look all rolled in to a single useful palette. 
A few days back, I considered purchasing a highlighter. I learned from Youtube, that highlighter could give you that instant 'glow'. It's like the BDJ team knows what I really need, so they included this!

So happy!

Sorry, I'm still learning the ropes on makeup application. But you know, it's never too late to learn! 

Hence, this is so timely! And it's from Revlon!

I swatched these a few times, and I could tell, these work well as highlighter and bronzer. I'm not so sure if they're good enough as eyeshadow or blush, because the colors are on a 'lighter' shade. In fact, I have decided on not posting the swatch photos because they barely show on the photos! But, I bet they work great as highlighters - especially for those with fair skin.

MyChoice Pure Herbal Soap, 100g - Php 55


If you need your soap to be a natural cleanser, exfoliator or moisturizer, there is bound to be a MyChoice Pure Herbal soap for you. Comes in 6 variants that all have special properties suited for different skin needs. Contains natural ingredients that will help your skin in repairing damage, solving wrinkles and acne, moisturizing from deep within, refreshing naturally, protecting against damage and a whole lot more. Use all over the body day and night for better results. 
When I unboxed this box, I can't seem to get over this pretty soap.

As you could see, it's like a solidified version of fruit juice with some sort of nata de coco or gulaman in it. Isn't it adorable?

I got the aloe variant, which is great for sensitive skin.

Would really love to try this one out real soon!


Asian Secrets Lulur Whitening Facial Scrub, 100g - Php 120 

    
This Javanese Princesses inspired scrub delicately removes your dead skin cells, leaving your skin supple and smooth. The luur beads gently exfoliates and removes dead skin cells and black heads to smoothen and give skin a fairer, whiter and radiant glow. 
You know how much I love facial scrubs! 

Facial scrubs are excellent in keeping your pores clean, and I bet this one will do the job well! 

I remember a few years back when Asian Secrets was still a fresh brand; I used to use its body scrub variant as a facial scrub. 

Hehe... my peers did the same thing as well, because we love how it worked on our facial skin. 

It's great that Lulur came out with a facial scrub variant. I'm hoping that this would work better than the 'body scrub'. 

Asian Secrets Lulur Whitening Body Scrub

Feel refreshed and revitalized this summer! Include on your shower ritual for a more relaxing and prettifying bath time. Gently exfoliate two to three times a week to wash away dead skin cells and reveal a fairer skin. 
Ahh... here's an old favorite - the Asian Secrets Lulur Body Scrub!

It's affordable, and you bet it has everything you'll have to look for in a body scrub - a facial scrub even!

So glad to get my hands on these convenient body scrub sachets!

MyChoice Bubble Shower Salt 2-in-1, 225g - Php 100 

Pamper your skin with the newly improved 2-in-1 bath salt with soap that is made from natural ingredients which is perfect fro all skin types. It comes with five variants leaving you options fitted for your skin needs. May it be moisturizing, rejuvenating, lightening, anti-aging and refreshing need that you are wanting to solve, make it easy solved with MyChoice Bubble Scrub Shower Salt 2-in-1. Use this as everyday soap when having your bath and have that overall skin glowing you always wanted. 
I don't really know much about the brand, MyChoice, but I got a few items from them in my BDJ Box October 2014 - Skin Savers. I was able to try the Mango scrub. It retails at Php 100 each (sooo cheap!), but to my surprise, it gave me a very pleasant experience! It felt so good on my skin, and it smells so heavenly! It smells like mangoes, indeed!

As for this Bubble Shower Salt, I think I should give it a try. My first experience with MyChoice was excellent, so obviously, I really have high hopes for this one.

Tonymoly Intense Care Snail Foot Mask, 18ml - Php 198

Give your feet some TLC and get the confidence to show them off with the Intense Care Snail Foot Mask. It is a special foot mask to supply full of moisture and nutrition to dry skin. It contains snail slime extract which is known for stimulating collagen formation and moisturizing properties. Its unique formula speeds up the skin renewal process allowing the outer skin to mature and peel away painlessly, giving way to new skin. You can keep fresh feeling with it for a long time without stickiness with moist and refresh use. 
I'm no beginner when it comes to foot care items - especially if they're made in Korea. Based on my experience, most foot care items work really well, but they are usually priced at Php 150 and above - which is not cheap. I appreciate BDJ for including this, but I don't think I'll be using this.

I might sound funny, but I think I like my feet just the way they are. Sure, they have a couple of callouses, but they're fine. 

And, I've had my share of foot care items already.

But, as I'm writing this, my mom is enjoying this foot mask from Tonymoly. She loves it!!! 


MyChoice Anti-Acne Cream 20g - Php 100


Formulated with multi-functional anti-acne ingredients that strengthens its ability to help you be acne-free. It also contains AHA and BHA that desquamate acnes gentle without causing skin irritation. Daily use allows complete healing but visible result can be seen in just 3 days after application. Heads up, face the world showing off your beautiful flawless face. 
Another MyChoice item, and I'm not sure yet if it's something that I'd like to try. 

If I would, I might just use this as a spot treatment and not as a full facial cream. But I appreciate BDJ for including this. 

FS Cosmetics Lash Extravagance Mascara, 9g - Php 350

Get big, bold and flirty lashes this summer by sweeping on Lash Extravagance Mascara. The tiny bristles make application easy for both top and bottom part and gives you beautiful lashes to bat. Apply one coat to achieve a defined look. Show luscious. curled and dramatic eyes by applying two coats. Apply a third coat to give intense yet extravagant lashes. It's perfect for a day to night affair!
Truth be told, I hate drugstore mascaras. So, this goes to somebody who might appreciate this even more than I do. 


MyChoice Perfume Spray, 22ml - Php 60


Crush on this new set of fragrances from MyChoice. Made with 15 different scents that is perfect for the kind of mood you want to project in a day or even in your night affairs. These will definitely be the kind of scents you want to speak for you. Finish off your look with a spritz of these enticing scent to be the center of attraction wherever you are! Go on, seize the day and be easily noticed with MyChoice Perfume Spray.
The scent is okay, but sadly, I couldn't imagine myself wearing this. So, I guess this goes to somebody as well. 

Mustela Stretch Marks Double Action (Sample)
Mustela Hydra Bebe Body Lotion (Sample)
Mustela 2-in-1 and Body Wash (Sample)

I haven't had a baby yet, and for sure, I am not expecting, but I kind of like the idea behind Mustela. 

I have lost weight in the past few months, so, I now find stretchmarks a problem. Good thing, BDJ included a Stretch Marks Cream. 

The lotion and the 2-in-1 body wash are both welcome, too! 




Overall

This is a wonderful box! BDJ was extremely generous as they gave us lots of full-sized items! Plus, the box has a variety of skin care and makeup products, and most of them are new releases.

I am happy with the things that I got, and obviously, I'm looking forward for more!

Thanks BDJ!

Till next unboxing!



[DISCLAIMER] This is NOT a sponsored or paid advertisement.  

NEWBEE (the author of this blog) chose to buy the said beauty box at her own expense. Please note that the reviews are not by any chance made by an expert on makeup and skincare; these reviews are all based on the author’s limited knowledge, thoughts, and opinions. 
If you have beauty products that you’d like me to review, let me know! 
Do you have any business inquiries? Please send me a message to: newbeeworld31@gmail.com

Unboxing Post: BDJ Box April 2015 - Spring Into Beauty