BALEA Tuchmaske

Available in DM for 0.99 €

Aqua 

Based on what I see on blogs and Instagram this is the most recommended of Balea masks. It's a part of Balea's Aqua line designed for dehydrated skin and it's made in South Korea like the rest of Balea masks.

Sheet: Apart from the black mask, all Balea's sheets are thick as a blanket, rigid and very annoying when on the face. You're constantly aware of it, it absorbs most of the essence and even though the size isn't that big, it doesn't fold that nicely. I just really dislike the sheet material, it ruins the while experience.

Essence: Is like a serum consistency. It absorbs/dries fast, but it leaves a layer behind, which later disappears

Scent: Clean, but sharp. Overall the scent is nothing special. 

Effect: It gave the skin a hydration boost, so it leaves the skin looking more fresh, but that's it - to be fair it doesn't promise more anyway. It doesn't have that temporary "omg my skin looks so good" effect that Asian masks have, probably because it doesn't contain any of the brightening ingredients. If it weren't for the annoying sheet material, I'd say this is an ok mask for some quick hydration, but I won't buy it again. I didn't notice any burning as some others did.

Ingredients: here.

Worth it? Only if I'd be desperate for any sheet mask, but it doesn't compare to Asian masks.

 Tuchmaske mit Aktivkohle-Vlies

Sheet mask with active coal

I got this due to a high content of salicylic acid. It's meant for blemish-prone skin, so I used it when my skin wasn't having its best days.

Sheet and fit: I didn't expect the sheet to be so nice, especially considering how bad Aqua and Born to be Lazy is. It's comfortable and sits nicely on the skin, it's not even that large and folds nicely. As the packaging indicates it's black.  It's got eye flaps like all Balea masks, which are useless here, since I don't want this essence near my eyes.

Essence: in all Balea masks there's very little of liquid compared to Asian masks and it's enough only for the mask to be relatively soaked. But it's a lot better than Born to be Lazy and it sticks nicely on the skin. Essence is light, like a toner and it absorbs quickly.

Scent: it's got a pleasant medicinal scent.

Effect: None to speak off. I used it when I had a few spots, but this didn't help to diminish them or accelerated healing. It also didn't do anything for the look of pores or blackheads. After I took it off, my skin started to feel tight and it was matte, but that's it. It's the closest one to Asian versions in terms of material of the sheet and how comfortable it feels, but in terms of effects, it's nowhere near. 

Ingredients: here.

Worth it? No.

Born To Be Lazy (LE)

As cute as the packaging is, I actually wasn't drawn to it, but I got this one purely based on ingredients, since they look quite nice with almond oil and hyaluronic acid high on the list. 

Sheet: the same as at Aqua - one of the most uncomfortable sheets I've tried. It's a combination of being too thick and too large, so I almost gave up and wanted to take it off as soon as I can. 

Essence: It's got a milky essence, but there is so little of it that adherence on the skin is poor. So together with a thick sheet, very little essence and poor, large fit for me, this basically feel off my face within 10 minutes.

Scent: As I opened it I was immediately hit with very strong sour apply candy scent, which I don't mind at all, but if you're sensitive to fragrance I'm just telling you this is the strongest scented masks I've tried (comparable to Secret Key). 

Effect: despite such annoying sheet material and poor essence, my skin did look presentable in the morning softer and nourished, so it wasn't a complete waste of time. All Balea needs to do is add more essence and change the sheet to one of those thin ones.

Ingredients: here.

Worth it? No, until they change the sheet and add more essence. 

BANOBAGI Vita Genic Anti-Wrinkle & Whitening Jelly Facial Mask 

eBay (seller house_of_fashion.2013), $2.69

Vitamin A- lifting

Sheet & Fit: it's a 100% cotton sheet and one of those thin ones that are very comfortable, also almost invisible on the skin when wet. The sheet is a bit large, but since it's thin, it's easy to make it fit well. It's very soaked with essence and it drips when you're unfolding it.

Essence: such a wonderful essence at this one. It's clear, but it feels like a comforting lotion. When I took the mask off, I could constantly feel it on the skin and it was very tacky, so this is definitely a mask you should use before going to bed, or even rinse it off. These is a ton of essence left in the pack, more than at any other I've seen. You could easily transfer it and use it as a serum.

Scent: it's one of the more heavily fragranced. The scent is not one of those that's easy to compare to something, but it's almost fruity, yet mostly chemical.

Effect: this has one of the best effects on my nasolabial folds. On one side it virtually disappeared by the morning, and the other was barely visible. Even during the day, they didn't become as obvious as the usually do. But in terms of other effects, I found this one lacking, as there was nothing more than deeply moisturising, so no additional brightening, evening of the skin or softness. I will repurchase this one, though I suspect it's breaking me out a bit because I've been using the extra essence just on my area around the lips and it's where I got a few spots.

Ingredients: here

Worth it? Yes. 

Vitamin C - brightening

Fit & Sheet: Sheet is the same as at Vitamin A .

Essence: Again it's similar to the one at A. It feels so comfortable when you're touching the sheet, it's just an incredible feeling. It's sticky as it dries.

Scent: This one has chemical scent, almost slightly lemony or citrusy, but in a chemical way.

Effect: I didn't notice that big of a difference on my lines as at Vitamin A, but this one was meant for brightening and it did its job. However, it just wasn't that special compared to other brightening/whitening mask (Papa Recipe Bombee Whitening, My Beauty Diary Black Pearl, The Face Shop Solutions Pearl,..). I used this when my skin was in pretty good condition, the only thing I was aiming at was lightening a big blemish mark on my chin. It was a bit lighter, but the difference wasn't that significant. I'm thinking that this one might be nice to use as a treatment plan, so one every few days because ingredients are lovely and might have a better effect long term. It didn't break me out like vitamin A.

Ingredients: here

Worth it? I'm on the fence about this one because I think I haven't seen it's true potential, since I only used one. 

ETUDE HOUSE 0.2 Therapy Air Mask 

Cosmetic Love, $0.64

Hyaluronic Acid

Collagen

Promises skin firming.

Sheet: the same as at Hyaluronic acid.

Essence: milky essence, like a very a very liquid lotion and it needs quite some time to absorb.

Scent: nothing specific, a cosmetic type of scent.

Effect: this didn't do anything dramatic, it just nourished the skin, nothing else. It was like I used a regular moisturiser, but it's probably again that type of mask that has better cumulative effect. It promises a firming effect, but I haven't noticed anything like that.

Ingredients: here.

Worth it? No sure, maybe if I used a whole pack. At least it's cheap and it feels nice, so ok for a pampering.

ESFOLIO Vitamin Infused High Concentrated Essence Facial Mask

Milk

eBay, $1.80

 This one promises to help restore elasticity and add moisture. It contains alcohol high on the list, but I didn't notice the latter when I used it and an even more surprising ingredient here is ginseng, valued as one of the best anti-ageing ingredients. 

Fit & Sheet: this has a regular, thick mask. The fit is a bit big for me, but I just scrunched it up a bit.

Essence: this has one of the thicker essences that more resembles a lotion. It's absorbed pretty quickly and doesn't leave a sticky finish.

Scent: it's quite a strong scent and a bit strange. The closest I can describe it is like those hard candy with milk, but it's a bit more chemical than that.

Effect:I didn't think much about this one as it was on my face and immediately as I removed it because all it seemed was moisturising. But in the morning my skin just looked better and my smile lines were reduced, so it's elasticity claim and high moisture are real. It didn't help anything with a spot I had (from the Banobagi mask I'm 99% certain) and my skin wasn't softer or smoother, but I still liked this one.

Ingredients: here

Worth it? Yes.

LOVEMORE Intensive Hydrating Moisturizing Facial Mask

Wine Yeast - Whitening

eBay, $2.25

Contains ocean water as a base and promises to brighten the skin.

Fit & Sheet: This one had me confused when I opened it because you get three pieces - the protective plastic layer, the actual sheet mask and an additional blue paper protective layer, which I at first thought was the actual mask (that would actually make it cooler). The fit was ok, it's a bit big on the lower part, but in that respect actually very comparable to most others. It's a thin, silk mask, so almost invisible when wet. 

Essence: is super light and absorbs within seconds leaving no traces behind.

Scent: it's in the name - it smells like yeast.

Effect: Immediate results didn't leave me happy because my skin looked  more uneven than usual, but in the morning it looked really nice. The redness I had around an old/healing spot was diminished, the skin was fresh, even and smooth to the touch. Despite having an essence that's completely absorbed within a minute, my face didn't feel tight and I didn't feel like I need to rush with extra care. This one was overall nice if you don't mind the yeast scent and it's good also for those who have oily skin and/or who hate heavy skin care.

Ingredients: here.

Worth it? Yes, particularly for oilier skin types.

For more sheet mask reviews check here. Have a great day!

SECRET KEY Starting Treatment Essence 

Rose

This was a sample 30 ml size (bought two for 6$) and it lasted me about two months because I was applying it with hands instead of cotton pads. While I was using it, my skin was nicely balanced, smooth and more healthy looking. I still got an occasional spot, but that's life. In general I've found essences are fantastic and they were instrumental in improving the condition of my skin. The first one I tried was COSRX Galactomyces whose results were so mind blowing I immediately started exploring these essences and which to try next. So far I still think COSRX's is the best for the price, but I loved SU:M 37 's essence too. 

Repurchase: Maybe. I still have one bottle and samples of COSRX, after that I'll decide which one I'll buy.

ESTEE LAUDER Advanced Night Repair Synchronised Recovery Complex II

I'm sad to see this ran out, it's one of the best skin care items I've ever tried. Due to its tear-inducing price tag it's my very, very occasional treat, I resorted to buying it when my skin is just was not right and nothing helped. It's a product that normalises my skin and keeps it in balance, so it's that one reliable product that I can count on making my skin look healthier. It won't work absolute wonders in a few hours as you might expect from the exorbitant price, but there are noticeable improvements in a week(s) of everyday use. I won't say it prevents blemishes or dry them up until the morning, but it helps the skin heal faster, so those pesky blemishes diminish quicker and the marks fade faster too. The skin becomes more hydrated, but this is a product that shouldn't be used on its own, it's merely to assist your normal moisturiser and it also helps the skin to look healthier, less grey and blah. When I'm using it, though of course my skin isn't completely clear, there are no large blemishes. All I get on occasion are tiny white heads and that's it. I've found a decent and cheaper replacement in Banila co. Miss Flower Mrs Honey Essence Oil, but that product is considerably heavier, more appropriate for winter months and those with oily skin won't like it, while I think ANR is appropriate for all skin types.

Repurchase: Yes, but not in the near future.

NEUTROGENA T/Gel Anti-Dandruff Dermatological Shampoo for Dry Hair 

Anti-dandruff shampoos are mostly very stripping and drying, so since I loved the original T/Gel, I ordered the version for dry hair after I used up that one. While it worked the first few uses, it then just stopped and with long-term use it really dried-up my hair. I purchased the original intensive version again, which is fine for now, but it's even more drying that this one. This version has a much more pleasant scent, which is cosmetic-floral

Repurchase: No.

LEE STAFFORD Treatment for hair that never grows past a certain length

I admit I'm hard to please when it comes to hair care and a great majority of drugstore stuff is useless to me. This is already the expensive side of drugstore at 10 € per 200 ml, but it's one of the rare ones that I liked. It's a protein treatment, so one of those that you'll see effect more through frequent use as it'll make your hair stronger, but it doesn't have the same effect as most conditioners have, by that I mean make you hair super, super soft. It's one of those masks that makes your hair look better, shinier, stronger, but like all protein treatments you won't get super soft, silky hair. It's very heavily scented with a smell similar to Angel perfume, so an oriental scent full of patchouli, vanilla, chocolate and all other heavy notes.

Repurchase: I don't know. I might if it were still sold here.

HEALTHY SEXY HAIR Soy Tri-Wheat Leave In Conditioner

My favourite leave in conditioner and I've been using it for many years now. It's an extra hydration booster after I rinse off the regular conditioner or mask. It also helps tame frizziness to a degree and makes my sure my hair is in good condition. I forgot to use it a couple of times and my hair just wasn't right, it just felt drier, more rebellious. I only then realised I forgot putting my mini bottle into my regular hair stash, so I definitely notice a big difference if I skip it in my hair care routine.

Repurchase: Done, but in a mini size. I need to buy the full size. 

NIVEA anti-perspirant pearl & beauty

I just talked about this in the last new in, so I won't say much apart from that it's my favourite deodorant and I always repurchase it.

Repurchase: Done.

BALEA Rasiergel

Coconut Kiss

This version had a rather lame coconut scent, so I didn't enjoy it much. I think I still saw a few cans, but I repurchased the Apricot version which I like much more.

Repurchase: A different version.

ALVERDE Cellulite Körperöl

I didn't use this for cellulite, I used it as a shaving oil. It smelled nice like lemon candy and it did its job well. I'm not sure if I ever explained, but I do a double shaving routine, otherwise I'm still left with prickly legs since my hair so dark and strong. I use the gel first and then shave again using oil. It's smoother that way and the skin is softer because of the oil.

Repurchase: Yes.

BALEA Mizellen Reinigungs Tűcher

I just disliked these. Obnoxious strong scent and very basic cloths that felt harsh on the skin just aren't my thing. I used them to remove swatches, but they weren't terribly effective.

Repurchase: No.

SHEET MASKS

I already talked about some of these, did a review, had them in favourites and updated my post about sheet masks, so I won't do my typically long reviews. Instead I sorted them "repurchase worthy", "might repurchase" and "won't repurchase" categories.

Repurchase worthy:

PAPA RECIPE Bombee Honey Mask and Bombee Rose Honey Mask

These two are both my favourites because they do all I want - moisturise, even the skin tone by reducing redness, make the skin soft and plump it up a bit. I highly recommend these. Both smell like honey, the Rose one has a honey-rose fragrance and this gorgeous gold honeycomb design (picture bellow).

Repurchase: Yes, already done for Bombee Honey version, while I have most other Bombee versions to try. I'll buy a full pack of the version I love most.

THE FACE SHOP Solutions

Pearl (brightening)

Another one of my favourite. Excellent fit, it leaves my skin incredibly soft and smooth, hydrated, more even and just in general in great condition. Foundation applied like a dream after using this mask.

Repurchase: Yes and I'll try other versions.

ESFOLIO Vitamin Infused High Concentrated Essence Facial Mask

Milk

I didn't think much about this one when it was on my face and immediately as I removed it because all it seemed was moisturising. But in the morning my skin just looked better and my smile lines were reduced, so it's elasticity claim and high moisture are real. It's one of the cheapest with a nice, visible effect.

Repurchase: Yes and maybe the Pearl or/and Collagen version.

My Scheming Hello Kitty Series on the left and Papa Recipe Bombee Rose Honey mask on the right.

MY SCHEMING Hello Kitty Series Moisturizing Hydrating Essence Facial Mask

Black Pearl Brightening

Though the Hello Kitty pattern was disappointing because it's too faint, the effects were nice. Instantly more bright and even skin, also nicely nourished without any tightness that I experienced from some masks. It's effects are very similar to MBD Black Pearl, so I liked it, only the sheet isn't as nice-fitting as MBD.

Repurchase: I prefer My Beauty Diary, but it's definitely worth the purchase if you're tempted.

Maybe:

MY SCHEMING Classic Series Moisturizing Facial Mask

Skin Clarifying Astringent

If you're looking for a mask for oily skin, give this a try. I used it before going to bed and my skin was perfectly matte for the entire next day. Not that my skin is super oily, but I have a shiny T-zone in the summer and this worked a treat. In terms of helping with any breakout or shrinking pores, it doesn't do anything.

Repurchase: if my skin went through an oily phase.

BANOBAGI Vita Genic Anti-Wrinkle & Whitening Jelly Facial Mask

Vitamin A - lifting

I'm torn about this one. I love the effect of it because it has one of the best effects on my nasolabial folds. On one side it virtually disappeared by the morning, and the other was barely visible. Even during the day, they didn't become as obvious as the usually do. But in terms of other effects, I found it one lacking, as there was nothing more than deeply moisturising, so no additional brightening, evening of the skin or softness, plus I find it probably broke me out when I was using the remaining essence (there is so much left).

Repurchase: Probably. If you're looking for something to help with lines, give it a try.

Wouldn't repurchase:

I love the Black Pearl version in this line and I got this one because it was just about as frequently recommended. Unlike at BP, the essence is milky, but it absorbs just as fast and isn't sticky. Effects were almost the same as BP, so it made my skin very soft, moisturised and comfortable, but it wasn't more even or radiant.

Repurchase: Again it's nice, but for the same price I buy the Black Pearl version that does that bit more.

MY SCHEMING Moisturizing Essence Series Facial Mask

Mandelic Acid Brightening Mask

This is a mask that has the best immediate results and my mistake was that I used it before going to bed. It makes the skin much brighter and diminishes spots, as well as reduces redness. But it's not a particularly nourishing treatment (still it didn't make my skin feeling dry like Naruko) and I really wasn't happy with my skin in the morning because those creases you get from pillows were much more intense. It's nice only as a treatment right before a special event, especially if you have some spots, but I use masks only before bed so no one can see me parading with one of these.

Repurchase. While I don't exclude the possibility, I get a similar result from MDB Black Pearl, except it doesn't work as fast on spots.

LOVEMORE Intensive Hydrating Moisturizing Facial Mask

Wine Yeast Whitening

 Immediate results didn't leave me with much hope because my skin looked  more uneven than usual, but in the morning it looked really nice. The redness I had around an old/healing spot was diminished, the skin was fresh, even and smooth to the touch. This one was overall nice if you don't mind the yeast scent and good also for those who have oily skin and/or who hate heavy skin care.

Repurchase: it's nice, but I prefer others that do that little bit more.

NARUKO Collagen Boosting Firming Mask

This one was a bit like that Taiwan Magnolia mask I put in my disappointing post, but it's got better effects, since it left my skin smooth and more even. It's another one of those that absorbs completely into the skin, so it's not moisturising or nourishing and I really needed an extra dose of extra care after use. But if you dislike how most sheet masks leave a lot of product still on the skin, try these two Naruko masks.

Repurchase: No, I want more moisture.

SAMPLES

COSRX PHA Moisture Renewal Power Cream - gel cream with a gentle pharmacy scent. It's got a medium consistency that's easy to apply, but it has a very wet type of texture and it sits on the skin for a while. PHA stands for polyhydroxy acids which are something like AHAs, but more gentle because they don't penetrate into the pores, so this is a version of acids for sensitive skin. I was using the sample of about a week on one side of the face to see the comparison and I didn't see much. It was a short time frame, so it's hard to say, but in that time it didn't make my skin more even, clearer or help fade old blemish marks. I would need more samples, but if you can't use AHA's due to sensitive skin PHAs might be a solution.

HOLIKA HOLIKA Skin & Good Cera Super Cream - a thick, rich cream that feels very nourishing and sits on the skin for a while. It promises to keep the skin hydrated for 72 hours, though I can't confirm that, but my skin was pretty moisturised for the day until I washed my face. It has a citrusy type of scent that's strong. This is a typical moisturiser for (very) dry skin.

NATURE REPUBLIC Aqua Super Aqua Max Combination Watery Cream - this is one of the most popular ranges of moisturisers and I already loved the design of packaging before I tried it. This is almost the same as Green Line HydroMineral, so a thick hydrating gel cream that dries to a velvety finish and works as an excellent base for makeup. The scent is very strong and perfumey, something like Davidoff Cool Water and more on a masculine/unisex side. Likeable.

MAKEUP

MAYBELLINE Fit Me Matte + Poreless 

110 Porcelain

I already had this in my last monthly favourites and I continue to love it. I have the original Fit Me formula which is now named Luminous + Smooth in shade 110 Porcelain and it's my best fit in terms of shade, however, the formula is just horrible. So I was planning on getting the American version of Matte + Poreless in the same shade, but these tube versions started being sold here. I picked shade 110 though I was aware before it's not the same as American version, since it is a shade darker and more yellow. Formula is very light, easy to blend and it has a very natural look on the skin, also due to only light-medium coverage which is enough for me. Unlike the other Fit Me this looks beautiful on the skin, it's doesn't go patchy, flaky, it's doesn't emphasise pores, lines or uneven skin texture, but I also can't say it holds oiliness at bay that well despite having a semi-matte finish from the start, so I wouldn't say this is a foundation for oily skin (my skin was randomly oily one day after using a sheet mask and this foundation fared terribly). So far I love it, it's one of the best foundations I own, but maybe I should try shade 100 for me even though I was told 110 looks great on me.

DM, 8.95 €

CATRICE COSMETICS Liquid Liner

010 Dating Joe Black

I has recommended this eyeliner by cokolina.nina on Instagram and she says it's the best eyeliner ever. The formula is indeed very black and super matte, so those are its main pluses. As expected it's a very liquid eyeliner, so you need to be a bit more careful at application not too open your eyes too wide before it sets. The applicator is made of felt, so it's similar to pen eyeliners and L'Oreal's liquid eyeliner has one like it as well. I haven't managed to make a very thin line yet and the felt tip did get a bit frayed on two occasions, despite that it's probably the best liner I used so far, though I wish it were a bit more precise. Staying power is in most part excellent provided your skin isn't greasy. So Čokolina, you were right, it's very good.

Müller, 3.79 €

COLOURPOP Lippie Stix

Lumiere, Mirror Mirror, Trust me… and LBB

After being very impressed with Cami which made me fall completely in love with the formula of these, I had to order more as soon as free shipping offer arrived. Mirror Mirror and Trust Me… are just like Cami a Matte X formula, while Lumiere and LBB are Matte. I prefer the Matte X because they just glide on the lips with ease and leave such a perfect matte finish.

Lumiere is Cami's pinker, cooler sister, so it's another of those 90's looking mauve-rosy shades, but on me it's almost the same as my natural lip colour just a touch darker. Its formula is thicker than others I own.

Mirror Mirror is a Stix version of Ultra Matte Lip in Bad Habit and they describe it as a true berry which is close, but it's a muted violet-pink on me. The finish is perfectly matte.

Trust Me… is a bright "Ruby Woo" red. Again the finish is perfectly matte

LBB is a deceiving shade in the tube because it looks super dark, but on the lips it's like More Better and Rebel had a baby, and that baby got more of Rebel's genes. It's a deep plum-pink shade.

Colourpop, 5$

COLOURPOP Ultra Satin Lip mini

London Fog

I don't know how I missed this shade when I was ordering from Colourpop - it's completely my type of colour. It's a rosy pink red shade, so one of those reds that aren't really red colours I love so much. I've already done a review on the formula of these, but I will say that I completely missed this one was a Satin because it looked matte on me. Love it.

PUPA I'm Matt Lip Fluid

012

This has been on my wishlist for a while, since I heard several raves about it. I was doubtful it'll knock theBalm's Matt Hughes from the top on my favourites list and I was right, but this is nonetheless a lovely liquid lipstick. I got the shade 012 which I realised at home, it's almost a dupe for theBalm's Committed, it's just a bit more peachy. I was going to buy 013, but it wasn't on the stand. Formula is moussey and soft, a bit like someone had mixed Bourjois' Nude-ist with theBalm's Hughes and it sets into a nice velvety finish, which feels comfortable on my lips. My only complaint about it is that on a few occasions it didn't last very long, but otherwise it's lovely .  

Müller, 15.79 €

BOURJOIS Contour Edition Lip Liner

01 Nude Wave

I've always forget to check these out, but I've had Cotton Candy for years and it's one of my favourite formula's and shades. Nude Wave is a rosy-mauve shade that is a bit boring on me, so I won't really wear it on its own, but I will pair it with lipsticks, since it works perfectly 90's types of shades. I can't believe how expensive these are, drugstore liners should be cheap as chips.

Müller, 6.49 €

L.O.V. COSMETICS LOVinity Nail Lacquer

180 Sensual Sangria

I really like L.O.V. nail polishes, it think they are some of the best, so when Müller had an offer, I picked up another shade, a red because I planned on getting a classic red from this brand, since it's my favourite formula. Sensual Sangria is a cool toned red, a bit darker than classic red, but still very classy, though it's already near the vampy territory. It's wonderful formula to apply, so smooth and the brush is lovely. It's one coater, but I always apply two.

Müller, 5.99 €

*L.O.V THE GLOWful Face Definer Brush

This is a pretty massive brush, so way too big for me for contouring, but it's a nice powder brush and it's nice for bronzer and more pigmented blushes too. The bristles don't really feel the softest to me, almost like they are cheap, but it works fine nonetheless and it's pretty to look at.

10.99 €

*L.O.V PERFECTional Duo Contouring Brush

You get two brushes in one at this, a stiff, flat blush for defining and emphasising lines and a softer, square tip brush for blending out the line. Again, I don't like this for contouring and I don't like the flat brush in general, but the other side is nice for foundation, it just took a bit longer to blend. 

12.99 €

*L.O.V. HIGLYconfidential Conceal Brush

This one is my favourite of the three. It's a simple, small, but dense brush and it's excellent for blending concealer. 

7.99 €

SKIN CARE

THE ORDINARY Advanced Retinoid 2%

You're witnessing me jumping on the Ordinary train, though after this one I'm not sure if I'll be buying more any time soon because I found more effective K-Beauty products. I got retinoid because it's time for it. I don't' have bad skin, especially since I've been slowly changing my routine it's improved so much, so this is more a means of prevention and maybe slowing the deepening of my annoying nasolabial folds (smile lines around the mouth) which are just freaking me out. Deciem themselves explain on their website that Retinoid is a less invasive (read less drying, skin-feeling inducing and irritating) that the real deal Retinol (which they offer in a 1% version) and should have better anti-ageing result - well, we'll see. It's a very liquid yellow emulsion that needs time to absorb. I haven't experiences any sensitivity, redness, peeling or tingling/burning, but like I've said many times before my skin isn't sensitive at all. I've been using it to close to two months now and I just don't see any visible effect from this. It's like I haven't applied anything. Regardless, I have my hopes in its long term anti-ageing results, so I'll keep using it.

Deciem, 9.80 €

BIORE UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence spf 50 / PA++++

Since Skinfood's 10 Solution sunscreen left me disappointed with its greasy texture, I ordered the old version of Biore's Essence, which based on my exploration was most people's HG. Skinfoods and actually any other sunscreen I tried (all very cheap thought) don't hold a candle to this one in terms of lightness. It starts are a very liquid yellow lotion that is easy to apply even in larger quantities and has no white cast whatsoever. Initially it feels like a watery cream on the skin, but after about five minutes it's completely set to a velvety primer type finish. You can feel it on the skin when you touch it, but it's a very siliconey dry feel. It's an excellent base for makeup and it managed to protect me well against the sun rays, though I hear for longer exposure, European sunscreen are still far superior (I liked the feel of Bioderma Photoderm MAX Aquafluide SPF 50+ in Leclerc where I finally had a chance to test pharmacy sunscreens). I heard a lot of people say that it reeks of alchohol, but I don't notice it that much and I mostly get a nice lemon biscuit type of scent. I'm really glad I managed to get my hands on the old version of Biore because I hear the new one isn't as light anymore.

eBay, $9.89. Seller animetropolis, arrived in about two weeks from Taiwan.

MIXA Micellar Water Anti-Dryness

I've been eyeing this for a while because I liked the pharmacy look of the line and the pH 5.5 label, but for the longest time I thought it's some random strange brand (yes, I'm prejudiced. I'm awful, though I've been in the makeup world for a long time and tried a lot), but when I finally checked the label I saw it's under L'Oreal and I felt more sure it's probably good (again, me and my prejudices, but Garnier's Biophase Micellar Cleansing Water in Oil is my favourite). My instinct was right - this is one of the best micellars I've tried. I've been using Biobaza Beauty Micellar Water Mix for the past few months which is so weak and finally I have some actually powerful stuff. It removes makes very effectively, even the pesky eyeliner + mascara, so I actually don't even feel like I need to cleanse (I still do because of habit and because you never know what's still there). It's light, but not drying, it leaves my skin feeling good and the scent is gently pharmaceutical one. I'd like to see it in a Biobaza like packaging, but aside from that I think it's brilliant. 

Müller, 6.99 €

BALEA Refreshing Wash Gel

Erfrishended washgel

I bought this because it was the cheapest and easiest to get on a list of pH 5.5 cleansers. K-Beauty skin care revolves around double cleansing, so step 1 is an oil or balm and second should be a pH neutral or even low cleanser. Honestly, I didn't expect much from this because I remember tying the version for dry skin (pink tube) and it sucked so much I used it on my body. I was sure that it's going to be drying, but this surprised me with its comfortable thick gel texture that doesn't really foam much, but the face feels very clean after use. My skin does get tight after a few minutes, so I rush with the next steps in my routine. This gel is very heavily fragranced with some fresh cosmetic scent that's almost masculine - they really should change that because it's super annoying. I've been using it regularly for the past months and I have to say I really like it.

DM, 1.19 €

BALEA Beauty Effect Eye Gel Pads

Augen Gel-Pads

I got these because I was impressed with Etude House Smile Line patches and yes, I know it's a different type of product, but its basic function is the same - to intensely hydrate the area and temporary plump it up. You get three pairs in a box, so it's not the worst value for money, but still these could be cheaper. They look and feel exactly the same as Etude patches - they are saturated with product with makes them a bit slippery to apply, but they are again a hydrogel, so as they warm up on the skin, they really stick to it. Unfortunately, these did nothing on my smile lines, but under the eyes they feel so refreshing and cooling, though they didn't reduce dark circles.

DM, 3.99 €

*L'OREAL Pure Clay Illuminating Cleansing Gel

After the success of the Pure Clay masks, L'Oreal released a collection of cleansers. I got the one with charcoal which matches the Glow mask and promises to makes the skin more radiant with frequent use. It's a black lotion type of consistency, but it foams up into this thick, luxurious and comfortable foam that's very pleasant to use. It doesn't remove makeup, but it's a really nice second cleanser and I think it does make the skin a bit brighter - temporarily that is. It washes off completely with water, there is no filter behind, but just like at Balea above and every other such cleanser, my skin starts to feel tight and I hurry with the rest of the skin care. It has a similar scent as the mask, so just in general pleasant and cosmetic like. It's got one big minus for me - it's one of those at which you start picking the name of your guide dog when it gets into your eyes because it hurts like a bitch and you're seriously thinking you're going blind as it's burning off your retinas.

*L'OREAL Pure Clay Glow Mask

I already have this one and the other two from this line, so there is already a review for it, but it's a clay mask that's so far one of my favourites. It's one of my occasional treats when my skin is feeling congested and unclear, since this is a clay mask and it really helps with that.

BODY SKIN CARE

EPILETTE Epilateur a Disques

If you follow me on Instagram you will have seen this already and a review I did on Stories following a surprising amount of interest in this form of hair removal. I've been using this for a few years now, but sporadically because it's very time consuming. This are depilatory discs and you basically sand your legs with it, so scrub away the hair and with it also do a proper exfoliation of the skin as well. I've explained everything already in Stories, but this is a type of hair removal that works much better on strong, thick hair, while thin, baby hair mostly escape it (on area with only such hair I should add). It's not a fast hair removal, but you get the smoothest results with this, it's painless and it's the only form I found that doesn't cause ingrown hair on me, with which I have very serious problems (like thick hair growing a few millimetres under the surface, just straight on or coiled, so I don't just mean those red bumps on the surface where you easily get the hair out. It very visible and I have to dig them out with a pin, causing damage). Results last exactly the same as with a razor or depilatory cream, which should be obvious since you're removing just the hair from the surface. On me that's about a half a day because fml, but as I said it's the same with a razor or depilatory cream. The discs don't tend to last long, or maybe I should say don't stay very effective long and after that you need to do a lot more scrubbing. A frequent question I got was if it's suitable for sensitive skin, but I can't answer that well. It never cause me any irritations, but I have thick, hardy skin (obviously since even thick hair can't get through despite using scrubs regularly), still you are doing an intensive scrub, so maybe those with sensitive skin should avoid it. 

Müller, 5.99 €

L'OREAL Elvive Phytoclear Anti-Dandruff 1 Minute Exfoliating Scrub

I already featured this in my disappointments post where I said I could have just burned the money for this, there'd be no difference. After Matrix tragically discontinued Scalp Synch, I embarked on a search for a replacement and this is currently the only one sold in our drugstores. It is by far one of the worst products I've ever used on my hair. Not only that it didn't remove the build-up on the scalp, it actually stuck to it and only added a layer of nastiness despite doing the double-wash with an anti-dandruff shampoo. It's got a pudding consistency with sparse beads, but that is actually a very similar texture to the Scalp Synch. The beads don't even wash off and felt them every time I ran my fingers though my hair. I just don't recommend this to anyone and I've been using Matrix Sugar Shine instead.

Müller, 6.99 €

L'OREAL Elvive Phytoclear Anti-Dandruff 7 Day Scalp Lotion 

This is already better than the scalp scrub, but it's not a miracle worker. It's actually exactly the same product as Subrina Intensive Balancing lotion and Alpencin Forte lotion, so capable of alleviating the itchiness of the scalp, but as far as reducing or healing of dandruff, it doesn't cut it. This one comes in one of the best packaging, even though it's glass which can break and it unnecessary heavy, but the pump applicator is excellent for getting right close to the scalp. The scent is herbal and strong. I give it a 3/5 because Subrina is a lot cheaper and does the same. But why do all these lotions have to smell so annoyingly herbal and strong?

Müller, 8.99 €

SHEET MASKS

MY SCHEMING Moisturizing Essence Series Facial Mask 

Mandelic Acid Brightening Mask and Oolong Tea Oil Cut Mask

My Scheming are some of the most frequently recommended masks and they are also one of the more affordable, so I got quite a few in several different versions. 

Mandelic acid

This was one of those that I was most excited to use because I heard a lot of positive things and it was most frequently mentioned as a mask that has the best visible results. I was a little bit let down and I find MYB Black Pearl much better, but I might give it another chance.

Fit & Sheet: regular sheet, but thin, so one of those that's almost invisible when wet. It's slightly too big for me around my chin and the eyes are cut a bit strange, regardless it's still a good enough fit. It's very saturated with essence and it dripped a lot as I was unfolding it.

Essence: Very light, like a toner and it absorbs very fast, leaving almost nothing behind.

Scent: it smells like a hospital, in particular that disinfectant scent. This changes in time that's on the face in it becomes sour, like acid. That lingers afterwards, but I wasn't that bothered, still it's not exactly an aromatherapy session with this one.

Effect: This is a mask that has the best immediate results and my mistake was that I used it before going to bed. It makes the skin much brighter, it diminishes spots and reduces redness. But it's not a particularly nourishing treatment (still it didn't make my skin feeling dry like Naruko) and I really wasn't happy with my skin in the morning because those creases you get from pillows were much more intense, also my smiles lines were more prominent, which was just fantastic because I was woken up abruptly the next morning, so in the next two minutes I was applying eyeliner and trying to get dressed, obviously no time for foundation just sunscreen before I rushed into a car and I just prayed my skin will unfold/un-crease into something resembling a decent human being before I reached the town. So I would recommend this only as a treatment right before a special event, especially if you have some spots, but as an overnight treatment use something that you know will add elasticity to the skin (like Banila essence oil).

Oolong Tea Oil Cut Mask

I got this one for free, so I'm not that familiar with it, but it claims to be rich with vitamin C and tea phenol. It promises to help regulate oiliness, improve blackheads and large pores, so this one is for acne-prone and oily skin.

eBay,  $2.03

MY SCHEMING Classic Series Moisturizing Facial Mask 

Skin Clarifying Astringent

I got this one for those days when my skin will eventually freak out and have several spots because I hear it's excellent at calming down breakouts and at controlling oil. I'll let you know how I like it.

eBay, $1.80

MY SCHEMING Invisible Mask Series Moisturizing Facial Mask 

L-Ascorbic Acid Whitening

Like Mandelic Acid this one was one of the most frequently mentioned as a mask that  has the best visible results. L-Ascorbic Acid should tackle uneven skin tone, so we'll see how this one goes.

eBay, $1.80

MY SCHEMING Hello Kitty Series Moisturizing Hydrating Essence Facial Mask

Black Pearl Brightening

I got this for the packaging, obviously, but also because Black Pearl from My Beauty diary is one of my favourites and I hope this one works about the same. It's a limited edition one and it exists in three version of what I think are My Scheming's most popular versions. It has a cute Hello Kitty pattern of the sheet with a pink bow and whiskers, which just makes it so cute. I'm looking forward to trying this one.

eBay, $2.47

BANOBAGI Vita Genic Anti-Wrinkle & Whitening Jelly Facial Mask 

VItamin A - lifting and Vitamin C - whitening

These caught my eye because they contain vitamin A and vitamin C, both highly sought ingredients in anti-ageing skin care. So far I've only tried vitamin A.

Vitamin A

Sheet & Fit: it's a 100% cotton sheet, but one of those thin ones that are more comfortable and when wet, look almost invisible on the skin. The sheet is a bit large, but since it's thin, it's easy to make it fit very well. It's very, very soaked with essence and it drips when you're unfolding it.

Essence: such a wonderful essence at this one. It's a clear gel, but it feels like a comforting lotion. But when I took the mask off, I could constantly feel it on the skin and it was very tacky, so this is definitely a mask you should use before going to bed, or even rinse it off. These is a ton of essence left in the pack, more than at any other I've seen.

Scent: it's one of the more heavily scented. The scent is not one of those that's easy to compare to something, but it's almost fruity, but mostly chemical.

Effect: this has one of the best effects on my nasolabial folds. On one side it virtually disappeared by the morning, and the other was barely visible. Even during the day, they didn't become as obvious as the usually do. But in terms of other effects, I found this one lacking, as there was nothing more than deeply moisturising, so no additional brightening, evening of the skin or softness. I will repurchase this one, though I suspect it's breaking me out a bit because I've been using the extra essence just on my area around the lips and it's where I got a few spots.

eBay, $2.69

LOVEMORE Intensive Hydrating Moisturizing Facial Mask

Wine Yeast Whitening

A reader recommended I tried this brand and I heard further recommendations on Reddit. It contains ocean water as base and promises to brighten the skin.

eBay, $2.25

ESFOLIO Vitamin Infused High Concentrated Essence Facial Mask

Milk

I did get this one in part for the packaging and also because it's one of the cheapest, but these were a rave or two about this online. It contains a lot of alcohol, but I haven't had a problem with it in TFS's Solutions mask, so I think I'll be fine. This one promises to help restore elasticity and add moisture.

eBay, $1.80

MY BEAUTY DIARY Natural Key Series Facial Mask 

Squalene Restorative (Hydrating) and Black Pearl (Brightening)

I got another Black Pearl one since it's one of my favourite, but this time I picked up Squalene too because again I heard good things about it. Squalene is a lipid that's naturally in our skin and this masks should help repair the moisture barrier, as well as restore all you messed up with over exfoliation, acids and aggressive treatments.

eBay, $2.03 

Have a great day!