Sunday, June 15, 2014

Wondering what's inside BDJ Box for June 2014? Scroll down below to see for yourself!

I received these goodies yesterday, and what do you know?! It’s a Benefit Exclusive Box, for the second time around! The first Benefit Exclusive Box (Secrets of a Spy Gal) was sent on March 2014, and never did I expect that another would be shipped for June.

However, all items in this particular box, are in sample sizes, mainly because, Benefit products are somewhat expensive. For me, it's really okay. I get to try their bestsellers before finally buying them in full sizes, that is, if they are really worth all the money.  

Nonetheless, with this box, I still feel very lucky.

I just love you Belle de Jour!
 
Everything inside the BDJ Box June 2014. Sweet, isn't it? 

Very fancy box. As expected from Benefit, and BDJ!
Did I mention that this is my first ever unboxing post? Nonetheless, this is not my first BDJ Box; I got my first one last January 2014, and I've been receiving BDJ Boxes since then. 


In case you haven't noticed, there are seven sample sized items in the box, 2 Benefit vouchers, 1 Benefit Product Guide, and some 'ego-boosting' stickers.

Let's take a look at them, one by one, shall we?

Benefit Fake Up Hydrating Crease Control Concealer in 0.5g
When I first saw this, I honestly didn't know how to use it. It's my first time to hear about the Benefit Fake Up, I was surprised. What could it do for you and me?

According to the product guide it came with, the Benefit Fake Up Hydrating Crease Control Concealer should help you hide dark circles around the eyes. Also, Benefit promises that the finish would look natural. It contains vitamin E and appleseed extract that could help diffuse fine lines around the eyes.

The Benefit Fake Up Hydrating Crease Control Concealer in full size (3.5g) is retailed at Php 1600.00 each. If we'll do the math, 0.5g of it, should cost roughly about Php 230.00. It's also available in three shades. The one I got is in 01 Light Shade.

Benefit Bigger than BB Big Easy SPF 35 Multi-Balancing Complexion Perfector 01 Fair in 3.0 ml
The Benefit Big Easy Multi-Balancing Complexion Perfector is an interesting product. It says that it's bigger than BB; does it mean BB cream?

According to the product guide, it is the ultimate beauty balancing act, as it is non-comogenic and oil-free,but could still balance moisture and control oil. In addition, it has SPF 35, and self-adjusts to your exact shade and conceal imperfections. 

The full size of the Benefit Big Easy Multi-Balancing Complexion Perfector is 35ml and it retails at Php 2000. Our sample size is probably valued at, more or less, Php 290.00.

Benefit Lolli Tint (Candy Orchid Cheek and Lip Stain) in 2.5 ml
Would you look at that! I got a Benefit Lollitint!

I've been looking forward to purchasing this one before; good thing I didn't buy the full size just yet. Thank you BDJ Box for letting me have a Benefit Lollitint in sample size.

I guess the packaging explains what it does. It's an interesting shade, too; don't you agree?

Anyway, the full size Lollitint at 12.5ml retails at Php 1700; therefore, this sample is probably around Php 340.00.

Benefit They're Real Beyond Mascara 3.0g
OMG, I've been eyeing this mascara for quite some time now. I can't believe I have one!

For those who are not familiar with it, the Benefit They're Real Beyond Mascara is a so-called power mascara. It promises to lengthen, curl and volumize lashes. According to the product guide, this mascara lasts long and it won't smudge or dry out.

It's a must-try. I hope it wouldn't disappoint me.

The full sized Benefit They're Real Beyond Mascara (8.5ml) retails at Php 1300.00. This sample size, could be worth around Php 450.00.

Benefit Hello Flawless Oxygen Wow Brightening Makeup in 3.0 ml
This product is not new to me; this is a repeat product. If I recall correctly, the March 2014 BDJBox, also a Benefit Exclusive Box, included this. Anyway, I'm happy because I found this Brightening Makeup very useful, and I don't mind using this again and again and again.

The Benefit Hello Flawless Oxygen Wow Brightening Makeup is a liquid foundation that could help brighten the skin's appearance without drying it out.

The Benefit Hello Flawless Oxygen Wow Brightening Makeup in full size (30ml) retails for Php 1900. This sample product, should be around Php 190.00.

Benefit Porefessional 3.0 ml
Here's another repeat, (but I don't mind using again) is the Benefit Porefessional. It's a primer that could also even out pores.

It's a pretty interesting product as I have used this a couple of months ago. It was really good.

The Benefit Porefessional Balm in full size (22ml) retails at Php 1,600.00 each. Therefore, the sample size must be around Php 220.00 each.

Benefit Benetint Cheek and Lip Tint (2.5ml)
Lastly, here's the Benetint Lip and Cheek Tint. It was also included in the March 2014 BDJ Box, but I really don't mind owning another one.

This is a pretty good tint, too.

The Benefit Benetint in full size (12.5 ml) costs about Php 1700.00. This sample is probably around 340.00.

Benefit Best of the West Giddy Up Gorgeous (Spring 2014) Product Guide
Well played game, Benefit! This product guide would surely boost your sales!

Surprisingly, I'm happy I received 30-page product guide because it contains details about the latest products Benefit has to offer for 2014. Honestly, I was drooling while I was browsing through the catalog. I'm keeping this catalog so that I would know which Benefit products I'll go for next!

Thank you Benefit and BDJ!

Lastly, these are the vouchers that came with the box:

Free Makeupper Voucher
Benefit Brow Wax Service for Php 300.00

These vouchers, by the way, can only be used from June 1 to July 31, 2014, and are only valid at Greenbelt 5, Trinoma Mall of Asia, Rustan's Makati, and Rustan's Shangri-la. 

I won't be visiting Makati for quite some time, so I'm afraid I can't use these vouchers. I'm thinking of giving them away.

The BDJ Product Card 
If you'd compute how much this box is worth, not including the vouchers, it's roughly around Php 2060! That's almost four times the standard subscription price for BDJ Box of Php580.00!

In a personal point of view, I'm really glad I subscribed to BDJ Box. The ones behind BDJBox are really awesome because they always make things exciting for us Bellas.

Interested in BDJ Box?

Click on the links below to know more about BDJBox!

BDJBox Facebook

BDJ Box Subscription

Better hurry, because the boxes are selling like hotcakes!


Love,


Newbee


[DISCLAIMER] This is NOT a sponsored or paid advertisement. NEWBEE (the author of this blog) chose to buy the said product 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 June 2014 - Let the Beauty Begin (An Exclusive Benefit San Francisco BDJ Box)

Friday, June 13, 2014

I am very much weak to retail ‘temptations’, and I’m afraid to inform you that I simply gave in during a visit to Watsons a couple of months ago. As a result, I bought four different products during that day. I got three sunblock tubes, and one ‘cellulite control’ cream – the Kojie-san Kontur Cellulite Control Crème in 150g. 

Kojie-san Kontur Cellulite Control Creme 

Honestly, I just bought the cream because I needed something new to try. I mean, this may not be a sunblock, but never in my life have I bought a lotion that promises to ‘control fats’ or ‘burn fats’, whatever. However, I’ve always thought that it’s nearly impossible to, you know, ‘control cellulite’ just by applying a lotion or something, but I guess this one is worth a try. I bought this baby a little less than Php 300.00.

If I may add, Kojie-san is an established brand here in the Philippines. 


GENERAL INFORMATION

According to the packaging:

                New Kontur cellulite control crème, which dramatically reduces the appearance of cellulites and unwanted curves. Kontur cellulite control crème prevents the accumulation of fats and water trapped just below the skin.

                Finally! A revolutionary scientific breakthrough for controlling excess water to give skin a firmer, smoother appearance. Kontur with Phytofirm LCA promotes the oxidation of fat and palys an important role in the conversion of stored fats to energy. Phytofirm LCA and Algae Extract have a complimentary effect by improving skin texture and increasing skin softness, firmness and smoothness.

In summary, the Kojie-san Kontur Cellulite Control Crème promises to:
  • ·         Reduce the appearance of cellulites
  • ·         Prevent the accumulation of fats
  • ·         Prevent the accumulation of excess water below the skin
  • ·         Improve skin texture in  terms of softness, firmness and smoothness

Directions (according to packaging):

After shower or bath, apply to dry skin on thighs, hips, legs, arms, stomach, etc. Massage for a few minutes with circular movements, until cream completely absorbs into skin. Recommended use of this product is twice daily (morning and bedtime). To help increase your results, combine our product with a healthy lifestyle consisting of exercise and proper nutrition avoiding high fat foods and sweets.


Just a reminder, though; this is not a weight loss product. Therefore, you can’t expect this product to shed off pounds from your body. That’s a misconception. Cellulites are just stubborn excesses of water and/or fat – regardless of body weight.  Let’s start with the review, shall we? 


MY EXPERIENCE/IMPRESSIONS

Packaging

The packaging is pretty standard; the cream is in a tube and all you have to do is squeeze it until enough cream comes out. Since it is housed in a tube, it’s handy and very easy to use. I haven’t had any problems with it.

The Kojie-san Kontur Cream doesn’t come with a box, but the tube is just about enough. I don’t find this a problem at all, since I tend to throw the box right after I open it. I guess everybody does. Unless, of course, if you’re fond of collecting boxes.

Anyway, what I think Kontur is missing when it comes to packaging is the ‘expiry’ and/or ‘manufacturing’ date. I can’t find those information printed on the tube. I believe that this is very essential, and I hope the makers of Kojie-san would address this as soon as possible. 

That's just the batch code, right? I wonder where in the world is the expiry and/or manufacturing date printed. 


Formulation

Have you seen a real matcha green tea? The color seems to resemble matcha green tea in the form of a cream, though the Kojie cream is a little lighter.       

When I first used the cream, I was relieved that the fragrance is not a turnoff at all. It smells minty – very relaxing and soothing.

Also, I appreciate the fact that it’s non-greasy on the skin. It’s not sticky, too. Also, I’m glad that it doesn’t leave a heavy feel as well. Don’t worry about applying the green stuff on your skin. It won’t leave a cast on your skin, whatsoever. Just apply it like your regular lotion.


All in all, I think the formulation is just perfect. 

This should be 'greener'. Obviously, my camera didn't capture its 'greenness'.

During application

A few seconds after application: no green cast, blends easily
Effectiveness:

Let’s take a look at Kojie-san Kontur Cellulite Control Crème’s promises:

·         Does it help in reducing the appearance of cellulites?
Ø  It does, but only for a short period of time – probably only for a couple of hours, give and take.

·         Does it help in preventing the accumulation of fats?
Ø  I don’t think so. The original state of the skin returns a couple of hours after application.

·         Does it prevent the accumulation of excess water below the skin?
Ø  I don’t think so. The original state of the skin returns a couple of hours after application.

·         Did the skin texture improve in terms of softness, firmness and smoothness?
Ø  After application, the skin texture improved a notch almost instantly. However, the results are only temporary.

Cost to Benefit

The tube costs around Php 300, and if you’ll apply it religiously on your legs and belly, twice a day, you might empty the tube in a couple of weeks. That’s just an estimate, though. Hence, you are like spending Php22 each day on this skincare product alone.

If you think that:

·         You need to reduce your cellulites even for a couple of hours;
·         You could afford to spend at least Php 11 per application of this cream;
·         You need smoother and firmer skin even for a couple of hours only;

Then, maybe, for you, this is worth buying.

In my opinion, though, this product gave me a pretty good experience, and I might consider purchasing another one just for the fun of it. 

RATING:

  • ·         Packaging – 4.70 out of 5.00 (I wish they indicated the manufacturing date and expiry date on the tube)
  • ·         Formulation – 5.00 out of 5.00
  • ·         Effectiveness – 3.00 out of 5.00
  • ·         Cost Efficiency – 5.00 out of 5.00

Average Rating: 4.50 out of 5.00

Pros:
  • ·         Excellent packaging in terms of ease of use and simplicity
  • ·         Product is well-formulated in terms of consistency and texture
  • ·         Scent is relaxing
  • ·         Not greasy
  • ·         Not ‘heavy’ on the skin
  • ·         Makes skin smooth and firm
  • ·         Easily blends on the skin
  • ·         Locally available (e.g. Watsons nationwide)

Cons:
  • ·         Manufacturing date and/or expiry date of the product was not printed on the tube
  • ·         Slimming effects are only temporary

Repurchase?

Maybe. I might need a few cellulites to disappear for only a couple of hours - pretty handy for social events.

Here’s a secret:

I have a crazy idea. Why not try this on the face? I will do that, and I’ll inform you if it would be a good alternative to facial firming essences. Good luck with me on that.

Well, that’s all for today. Have a great day everyone!

Please let me know if there's anything I could help you with. 

Love lots,

Newbee


 [DISCLAIMER] This is NOT a sponsored or paid advertisement. NEWBEE (the author of this blog) chose to buy the said product 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!  
Need advertising space? This blog is also open for advertising. Please send me a message to: newbeeworld31@gmail.com

Review: Kojie-san Kontur Cellulite Control Crème (150g)

Friday, June 6, 2014

Hi there!

Today, I’ll be reviewing two hair care products from one of our favorite Korean brands, Skinfood.

Everyone, meet:

Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Shampoo and Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Conditioner



 These babies were bought separately, but I decided to present the reviews in one blog post.


According to the packaging:

Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Shampoo

A shampoo that contains nourishing argan oil and silk to transform dry, damaged hair into healthy, shiny tresses.

Directions: Wet hair and scalp with lukewarm water. Lather up and massage into hair. Rinse off thoroughly.


Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Conditioner

A conditioner that contains nourishing argan oil and silk to transform dry, damaged hair into healthy, shiny tresses.

Directions: After shampooing, squeeze out excess water. Pour an ample amount into palm. Apply evenly to hair, avoiding scalp and focusing on ends. After 1-2 minutes, rinse of thoroughly with lukewarm water.  


In other words, these two products are for dry and damaged hair. Mine is dry and damaged, too. Let’s see if these two babies could keep up with their promises.

MY EXPERIENCE/IMPRESSIONS

Packaging

I have no qualms about the packaging. Both products are extremely gorgeous, and uniquely designed. Who would have thought that a shampoo (and conditioner) bottle would look like fancy syrup jars? These jars, by the way, are made of some sort of plastic. They’re cute and handy, nonetheless. Not to mention that the pumps work perfectly just fine; a couple of pumps, at most, is all you need to have your hair covered.


While 400g may sound like a lot of product, it is conveniently packed in these gorgeous containers. In addition, the batch code, manufacturing date, and expiry date were all printed on the bottle.

Although both products didn’t come in with a box, for me, it doesn’t really matter. It serves its purpose just the way it is. Both bottles contain product descriptions and directions in English, which is very, very important for us who couldn’t understand Korean. Also, the labels are waterproof and they don’t come off easily even though you leave them at the bathroom.

Formulation

The Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Shampoo is just like your typical shampoo; color is close to a shade of yellow, and it’s somewhat runny. It smells okay, because the fragrance is really subtle.

If you’re looking for a shampoo with a scent that would last for a couple of hours or more, this may not be for you. Scent is only good for half an hour, or probably less.

Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Shampoo


The Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Conditioner, just like the shampoo, is not something special.  It’s your typical creamy conditioner, and it smells just fine. Also, just like the shampoo, its fragrance doesn’t last long – half an hour, at most.

Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Conditioner
I have tried both the shampoo and conditioner for over two months now, and sadly, both didn’t live up to my expectations. In my opinion, the two products didn’t improve the appearance of my hair; it’s still frizzy, and all. Plus, I think the formulation has not prevented (or possibly, caused) itching and flaking on my scalp. I know it’s disgusting, but it’s really something to think about before buying this.

One thing I love about it though, is that didn’t dry out my hair; some shampoos do, and create a disaster on my already-ruined hair. However, I’ve seen other shampoos (and conditioners) do a better job than this. The Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Shampoo and Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Conditioner are not bad, and they’re not great either.  In other words, there’s nothing really special about them.

Cost Efficiency

I’ve been using these since April 2014 - that’s roughly around 2 months; I would say that the 400g worth of shampoo and 400g worth of conditioner could go a long way. I guess I could finish up the bottles in a month, and that’s not bad. Three months’ worth of product is just a LOT!

However, if you’d ask me, I would rather go for a cheaper alternative. Skinfood Shampoo and even Conditioner, costs quite a fortune, and I could hardly see the benefits that I want to see. Yes, it is a lot of product, it is somewhat costly and it’s not readily available here in the Philippines. I was expecting a lot more from Skinfood, but I guess that’s all there is to it. Maybe it is meant to suit Korean hair, unlike mine, which is, you know, Filipina.

RATING:

·         Packaging  - 5.00 out of 5.00
·         Formulation – 4.50 out of 5.00
·         Cost Efficiency – 3.70 out of 5.00

Average Rating: 4.40 out of 5.00

Pros:
  • ·         Excellent packaging
  • ·         Easy to lather and apply on to hair
  • ·         A little product goes a long way
  • ·         Doesn't dry out your hair

Cons:
  • ·         Didn't prevent flaking or itching/ Caused flaking and itching (to be verified)
  • ·         Expensive at around Php700 per 400g bottle (to be verified)
  • ·         No visible improvements on hair

Repurchase? I guess I’ll take a pass on this one. I've seen better alternatives.

Have you ever used this before?

Post your comments below! J

Love lots,


NEWBEE


[DISCLAIMER] This is NOT a sponsored or paid advertisement. NEWBEE (the author of this blog) chose to buy the said product 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! 
Need advertising space? This blog is also open for advertising. Please send me a message to: newbeeworld31@gmail.com




Review: Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Shampoo (400g) and Skinfood Argan Oil Silk Hair Shampoo Conditioner (400g)

Friday, May 30, 2014


Climate Change…

Global Warming…

Sounds trouble, right? I bet you agree with me on this one.

These phenomena could potentially bring troubles to our skin, and we need extra protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

When I turned 25 last year, I decided to add a new skin care regimen to address this threat. I wish I had done this ages ago, but I admit I was too naïve by then, despite the constant reminder from my mom to take good care of my skin as damages cannot be easily repaired. I was extremely disobedient, and now I’m trying to catch up for what I should have done years and years ago.

What is the best sunscreen/sunblock for me?

My dear readers, I have the same concern as well, which is why, I decided to use this blog as a platform for my quest for the perfect sunscreen/sunblock, and of course other beauty products that work for us.

To start with, let me introduce you to Nivea Sun Whitening Immediate Sun Protection Collagen Protect in 75ml. Pretty lengthy name, huh?

My Nivea Sun, after a month of daily use

According to its packaging, Nivea Sun Whitening Immediate Sun Protection Collagen Protect:
  • ·         Whitens (with Active Whitening Complex)
  • ·         Protects skin from the sun (SPF30)
  • ·         Is non-sticky
  • ·         Is water-resistant
  • ·         Moisturizes
  • ·         Protects the skin’s collagen

My Experience

I have been using this product for over a couple of months now, and I could say that it is indeed non-sticky and somehow moisturizing. I couldn’t attest to the whitening effect though, because ever since I’ve been using this, I couldn’t see any changes to my skin color. You see, I also have a fine line on my arms that seem emphasize the unevenness of my skin tone, from the exposed parts of my skin to the unexposed parts. And yes, it’s still there, and it’s very evident. Then, maybe, the Active Whitening Complex may not be effective at all, or may be, I have to be extra patient and apply it on a daily basis for a couple of months more to see the results.

More info at the back of the bottle...
This product claims to be a water-resistant sunscreen. However, I don’t really mind if it’s water-resistant or not, because if I were to use a sunscreen on a beach, I would certainly opt for an SPF50 or higher. SPF30 is too low, and I wouldn’t use it on beach activities or the like, hence, there’s really no need for it to be water resistant; unless, of course, if you’re sweating profusely on a daily basis in normal circumstances, but in my case, it really doesn’t matter.

Also, if you’d be using this for the first time, don’t squeeze too much. You might end up with too much product to use on your hands. Yes, the lotion is somewhat runny. I found it a bit peculiar to use at first, but I came to appreciate it somehow. Runny somewhat translates to “blends well”.

See? Runny
What I love most about this product is that it makes me feel confident that I am protected from the sun’s harmful rays. I could tell because the heat from sun doesn’t sting anymore. Whereas, when I'm not putting any sunscreen on, I could always feel the scorching heat and my skin seems to react harshly.

Did I mention it’s really affordable? I forgot the exact price, but I figured that it’s really worth it.

Rating

If it’s for daily use, I would rate this product as 4.70 out of 5.00.

Pros
  • ·         Protects with SPF30 (good for daily use)
  • ·         Non-sticky and non-greasy
  • ·         Dries quickly
  • ·         Very affordable
  • ·         Available locally (e.g. Watsons)
  • ·         Water-resistant


Cons
  • ·         It didn’t whiten my skin at all
  • ·         The lotion is somewhat runny.


According to the sticker placed right at the opening of the bottle, Nivea is the World’s no.1 Sun Care Brand. So far and as far as I’m concerned, it delivered most of its promises, but sadly, I can’t really attest if it is indeed the best there is because I only used a handful of sunblock/sunscreens just yet.

Do you think Nivea is the World’s No.1 Sun Care? Why?

Nivea, as the world's number one sun care brand? 

Also, can you recommend a good sunblock/sunscreen?

Please post your comments below!

Love lots,

NEWBEE


[DISCLAIMER] This is NOT a sponsored or paid advertisement. NEWBEE (the author of this blog) chose to buy the said product 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!  
Need advertising space? This blog is also open for advertising. Please send me a message to: newbeeworld31@gmail.com


Review: Nivea Sun Whitening Immediate Sun Protection Collagen Protect in 75ml

Monday, May 19, 2014

It’s been two months, and I haven’t written anything for this blog. Believe me, I’ve been thinking of this blog the whole time I was in hiatus; my hands are itching to write something not related to my day job, and my schooling. Quite unfortunately, activities that are placed higher in my list of priorities got the better of me. You see, I have my day job, my master’s degree, my business (sometimes, I forget about this, too), and my ‘self-improvement’ routines.

Bottom line: So many things to do, so little time.

I guess I’m not alone when it comes to this kind of dilemma. Anyway, it’s not at all bad news.

Good news: I accumulated so many beauty products in the past few months.

And yes, I’m dying to review all of them.  They are piling up, and it would be a waste not to share my first-hand experience with them. So please, stick with me.

Today, I’ll be reviewing about a lip tint from another Korean brand, Holika Holika.

Meet Holika Holika Holy Berry Tint # 3 – Orange Berry


STOCK PHOTO

Holika Holika Holy Berry Lip Tint # 3 Orange Berry

Trivia:

1)      This is my first Holika Holika product.
2)       This is my first ever lip tint.

I bet it says Shade # 3 Orange Berry. Sorry, I couldn't read Korean. 

According to PrettyandCute.com,

Holika Holika Holy Berry Tint is a water based tint that leaves your lips with a refreshed feeling. It won’t only moisturize your lips but it also creates a softening effect, by using patented Micro Nutrients Berry Blend. Water-soluble pigment creates more vivid color, which makes it great to use before lipsticks or glosses for longer lasting and added color.

A very soft lip applicator
For more information on the product, you may read the full description here.

Surely, the description says a lot of good things about the Holika Holika Holy Berry Tint. In summary, it is supposed to be:

·         Refreshing
·         Moisturizing
·         Softening
·         Pigmented
·         Long lasting

Sounds good or sounds too good to be true? Let’s see, then.

Packaging

This is how I opened the tube. I ripped the stickers, because I was too excited to try it out. 

At first glance, you might find it cute; it is very Iight and handy, and the color really stands out, surely reminds me of fresh strawberry juice.  However, a few days after using it, I broke it somehow. Maybe, I mistakenly pulled the cap the wrong way, which is why it separated from the rest of the wand. Hence, all that I can show you are the ‘ugly’ packaging photos.  I feel bad, because the packaging should have been designed not to break easily. Nonetheless, this little flaw didn’t prevent me from using this on a daily basis, and I simply can’t throw it out yet.

I damaged the cap, and yes, it's messy all over. 

I admit; I’ve had my worries because the tint might spill out in my bag. I’ve had bad experiences on liquid and cream cosmetics spillage, but for this particular tint, I tucked it in my bag anyway. I know, it has a broken cap, and should have kept it in a safer place, but I’m glad because I never had any problems with it.

No spills thanks to the extra material right at the opening of the tube! Yey! 

The tube in a closer view

Lastly, although this product looks pretty straightforward in what it does (duh, it’s obviously a lip tint), I would have preferred its texts to have English translations on it. Aside from its name, its packaging is purely in Korean. For all I know, Holika Holika has been in the international scenario for quite some time now, so maybe, they should just improvise their labels?

Experience

Don’t get fooled by the packaging. At one look, it may look like a deep shade of red. However, this is not red, nor pink – this is orangey, as stated... 

Orangey, orangey, orangey... 

After using this on a daily basis for over a month, I realized that this may not be your typical lip tint.
1)                  It’s pigmented, but not overwhelming when applied on lips; one swipe, and that’s all you need. This alone leaves me an impression that one little tube could last me for months.
2)                  Its color easily spreads. I think the formulation is excellent, compared to brands I’ve tried before (e.g. Benetint, Ellana Minerals);
3)                  Looks natural when applied - perfect for lazy days when you don’t feel like applying (and reapplying) lip products from time to time.
4)                  Stays on for hours - six hours, maybe?
5)                  Colors stays on your lips even after drinking and/or eating.
6)            Goes well with any other lip product on top of it.

Swatched it on my Corona Notebook - it shows a pretty orange shade. 

Let’s not forget that Holika Holika claims this particular lip tint as: 1) refreshing, 2) moisturizing, and 3) softening.

Sadly, I couldn’t attest that it is indeed softening, nor refreshing when applied. There’s a slight pleasant sensation when you apply this tint on your lips, but it’s hardly noticeable, and I don’t think refreshing is the right word for that.

Also, there’s a very good reason why I try to refrain from using lip tints – most of them don’t moisturize at all. Most of them leave lips dry with color, which could be an ugly sight, especially if you have lips like mine. I hate it when my lips dry up and show visible cracks all over.  Vivid lip color, for the most part, just makes it worse.

Obviously, Holika Holika did exert its efforts to put an end to this dilemma, but its moisturizing effect is not quite perfect yet. I’ve had the same problem on dry and cracked lips, but I do appreciate the difference it has made. I guess it’s way ahead than Benetint and Ellana Minerals.

Rating?

It’s a 4.70/5.00 since it’s very promising. I love its long staying power, and the natural look it creates on your lips.

Repurchase?

Yes! This product is awesome. Like most of you, I have so many lazy days to deal with, and I find this lip tint very handy. The moisturizing effect needs a little more work, but you could deal with it by applying a lip gloss on top it. It should go well.

Well, I guess this is all for now. If you have tried this lip tint before, or you have some suggestions, please let me know.


Love lots,


NEWBEE


 [DISCLAIMER] This is NOT a sponsored or paid advertisement. NEWBEE (the author of this blog) chose to buy the said product 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. 
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Review: Holika Holika Holy Berry Lip Tint # 3 - Orange Berry