Tuesday, 26 February 2019

[Review] Aromatica Organic Rose Hip Oil

Facial oils have become insanely popular in the past few months. Everyone has some kind of oil in their skincare routine so I was feeling left out. But I already have oily skin and applying oil on top of my skin sounded crazy but after watching a few videos on YouTube by Gothamista and Liah Yoo I found out that their are actually a few oils which can be used by oily skin/acne prone folks

Since I already use facial oil cleanser to remove makeup it was relatively easy to apply oil to my skin this time.  With growing awareness among consumers brands are now releasing , organic, clean grade facial oils

Aromatica Organic Rose Hip Oil is 100% organic and cold pressed. The  oil comes in a vial packaging and holds 30 ml of product. The oil has a nice reddish orange hue characteristic of pure rose hip oil and has a viscosity of an oil.

Rosehip seed oil originates from seed pod of wild roses variety like Rosa moschata or Rosa rubiginosa.  Its a rich source of vitamin C and vitamin A  so it acts an anti oxidant,  maintains skin barrier and brightens skin.

 Features
A premium moisturizing facial oil made from 100% ECOCERT certified organic rosehip oil.
It moisturizes skin leaving it nourished and supple. It is suitable for all skin types including dry, oily, sensitive, etc., and quickly absorbs into skin.



There are two ways to use this oil. Either to use it on its own ( my preferred method ) or mix it with your daily moisturizer ( how my mother uses this) . 2 -3 drops are enough to cover the whole face. The oil has a runny texrure and does not feel heavy like coconut oil. Infact I was surprised how it absorbed completely within few minutes



From what I have learned people have claimed that Rosehip oil has reduced stretch marks on their belly. And have also lightened acne scars. From my initial usage I cant comment much on the hyperpigmentation aspect as I need a lot more time maybe few months to notice that but what I can report right now is how intensely hydrating this feels on the skin. I have been using this in my night time routine and this works just like a sleeping pack only its more comfortable and non tacky


Contrary to my initial fears this works beautifully on my oily skin. I haven't noticed a single clogged pore . And the glow I get post usage is beautiful. My only advice is not go heavy handed with this as it can make skin look yellow. Altogether this receives my full approval for being a great facial oil for oily skin.
You can purchase Aromatica Organic Rose Hip Oil at Jolse.com or Jolse Amazon 
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Friday, 22 February 2019

[Review] PURITO Pure Vitamin C Serum

I reviewed an older version of serum back in 2017 and loved this because of the drastic changes it made to my complexion. I have used a lot of vitamin C serums but none of them has changed my skin as much as this serum. I am so glad that purito made no changes to the origainal formula


Features
The balance of the natural ingredient in this serum makes it safe and suitable for all skin types even oily and acne-prone skin. This serum's ingredients include Ascobic acid, adenosine and White flowers complex which help sothe and smooth blemishes, acne. It minimizes pore size, brightens skin, lessens dark circles and puffiness under the eyes, and fades acne scars



Purito recently recently made changes to the packaging of its products and this serum is one of them. Compared to the previous design packaging PURITO Pure Vitamin C Serum feels a lot more sturdier and aesthetically pleasing plus the pump is better. I can totally control the amount I want plus its leak proof. As you can see the tinted bottle prevents vitamin C from oxiding fast.  Purito has used recycled material to create the outer box and has printed details regarding the product inside as well as outside.


This contains a blend of 10% Vitamin C mixed in a base of 84% Hyaluronic Acid. This smells like vitamin C serum. The scent is relatively stronger than other serums but I believe that is because of higher percentage of vitamin C in this serum



The texture of this is like water its runny but with a bit of viscosity. Right now this serum is almost transparent ( a little bit of straw color tint ) . This spreads easily and absorb easily as well without any tacky residue. (Depends on how much you use). For me 1 pump is enough to cover the whole face.


Something worth mentioning about this serum is that this makes skin tingle and warm on first use. ( my face became red the first time ) but after a couple of uses the skin adjusts to this serum and no irritation occurs after that.


This has visibly lightened my acne scar. The viatmin C has also helped to heal my skin ( boost collagen ). My skin feels so soft after use. I have been using this in my night time routine and I can see the difference in my skin even though I have been using this for a little time. This has also helped me with my dark circles.


My friend tried this serum one night just out of curiosity and loved the results so much that she immediately ordered a bottle for herself the next day.


This serum is a 10 free formula so its perfect for everyone. The ingredient list is free from silicon, parabens and is marked safe (EWG green level ingredients). Moreover its vegan and products are not tested on animals so those of you who are looking for replacing your skincare with something thats animal cruelty free and vegan should consider this

PURITO Pure Vitamin C Serum is available at Jolse. I think this is one Vitamin C serum that everyone must try .

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Latest Lawn Collection 2019 from Top Designers

Its the time of the year when I give a brief run down on all the Latest Lawn Collections of the season that need your immediate attention. I have been posting about Lawn Collections and Pakistani Fashion for quite some time now. I am by no means a fashion expert but I do try to keep myself in touch with latest trends and launches.


First things first I will talk about the power house of Pakistani fashion 'Sana Safinaz' a brand popular for its quality fabrics , affordable luxury and color rich designs.  Sana Safinaz Muzlin 2019 collection is a fresh outtake on spring dresses for year 2019. What's worth mentioning here is that Sana Safinaz has outdone its self by introducing 40 designs this season. Yes you have read it right 40 new vibrant designs so there is a lot of variety to choose from.


If mainstream is not your cup of tea but you still want to flaunt floral prints, AlKaram Collection 2019 is something you should look  out for.  AlKaram Studio has used an unusual palette of colors ranging from greys, blue to pastel greens with subtle floral designs and geometrical patterns which look feminine and modern at the same time.


Thankfully designers have upgraded to newer concepts and designs this year because honestly the collections were becoming boring and lackluster. Warda's Florence Romance S/S collection is a beautiful array of floral colors. There are a lot of reds, pinks, orange and bright yellows in the collection with a couple of blue and black designs. The designs are sophisticated, soft and perfect for summer season.  Warda Collection 2019 is now available online for purchase.

What's different and unique about this year's: Lawn Collection 2019  is that designers have categorized the collection into three tiers namely single piece, two piece and three piece. This allows a lot of age groups to pick dresses according to their taste. It also gives room to mix and match different clothes and create your own personalized design. There is also a stark difference in prices compared to last year. Most of the designer collections this year range between the price tag of 1500- 4000 so you can pick a few dresses even if you are on a budget.


These are the few brands that I think released good S/S collections this season.  I know I have missed a lot of brands which are quite poplar like LIMELIGHT, GUL AHMED, BAREEZE, GENERATION, KHAADI , NISHAT LINEN and SAPPHIRE. If you are new to Pakistani fashion or want to know more you can look at ths List of Top Pakistan Lawn Brands 2019 here

Thats all for this post. May you find the best dresses this season. Happy spring
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Thursday, 21 February 2019

[Review] COSRX One Step Green Hero Calming Pad

I  honestly wasn't surprised much when Cosrx revealed these new toner pads but I sure was excited and curious about them because I have tried the Original version and loved it so I knew this was going to be something extraordinary for sure


Features
A pad can be used every day for all skin types with confidence. Green-Rx Complex calms sensitive skin and hypoallergenic PHA ingredients smooth skin texture. It protects all skin type from extreme sensitive skin to complex skin.


Ingredients: Camellia Sinensis Leaf Water, Butylene Glycol, Taraxacum Officinale (Dandelion) Leaf Extract, Centella Asiatica Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract, Melaleuca Alternifolia (Tea Tree) Leaf Extract, Artemisia Princeps Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol, Cassia Obtusifolia Seed Extract, Lactobionic Acid, Maltodextrin, Panthenol, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Glycerine, Arginine, Allantoin, Asiaticoside, Asiatic acid, Madecassic acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Gardenia Florida Fruit Extract, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Menthyl Lactate, Mentha Haplocalix Extract. 


The pads have a simlar embossed and non embossed side and are packed in the same tub as the original one ( the details are in green instead of red )


On first appearance the two products look exactly the same But it's the performance which creates a stark difference between the two products. First off these smell refeshing, two they have a light green color to them and three the biggest difference of all is the feel.


One Step Green Hero Calming Pad  immediately feel soothing on the skin. As soon as you swipe this across the face you can feel a boost of hydration along with cooling and calming sensation. For me I could see the cleasing the original pads delivered ( all the dust, sebum on the embossed side ) but the COSRX One Step Green Hero Calming Pad did no such thing. They moisturized the skin and felt soothing



Compared to the original pads I enjoy using these as hydration patches on my face (leave them on for 5 minutes on my cheek )
These COSRX One Step Green Hero Calming Pad have bagged a solid place in my skincare routine. Just to make them last longer I cut the pad in half to get two uses. These are definitely suitable for everyday use and perfect for all skin types. They might not cleanse the skin but they calm angry, irritated skin and maintain moisture barrier


The best part is that skin feels soft and hydrated minus the tacky residue and you dont require to wash your face afterwards

COSRX One Step Green Hero Calming Pad is now available at Jolse.com 

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Wednesday, 20 February 2019

[Review] Aromatica Rosemary Scalp Scrub

I have oily scalp and I am an avid user of dry shampoo so the hair product builds up pretty fast on my scalp and after a few days it becomes itchy.  Its no secret that key to great hair is having a healthy scalp. And when I say healthy scalp I mean clean scalp which promotes hair growth


Features
Formulated with the mineral-rich granules of Dead Sea salt from Israel, Rosemary Scalp Scrub deeply cleanses hair follicles and removes sebum and waste from the scalp.
Herbal extract complexes such as rosemary, brinjal, coriander, oregano, and basil,
which are directly derived by AROMATICA, help calm and purify the scalp while providing essential nutrients.



Directions to use
It is a gel-type scrub formulation with rich salt granules. Formulated with safe plant-derived cleansing ingredients this can be  used 2-3 times a week instead of a shampoo. After thoroughly soaking the scalp and hair with lukewarm water, apply a moderate amount evenly on your scalp. Lightly massage the scalp with fingertips and add a little water to make more bubbles. Rinse thoroughly with water



Now I have previously mentioned in my blog posts that I have been battling sebhoric dermatitis for quite some years and to relieve this condition I have taken certain measures like cutting  SLS from my shampoo, choosing paraben and silicon free hair treatments, Apple cider Vinegar and the most recent addition a scalp scrub.



Scalp scrubs are no stranger infact a lot of charcoal/salt infused scrubs are available in the market. Is each one of them effective in cleaning scalp ? That is the main question!
First off rather than placing the scrub in a jar Aromatica took the wise decision of using a squeeze tube with a flip cap instead. Not only it gives better control over the product it also is very convenient to use and mess free.


The scrub has medium sized salt granules in a viscous gel like base. The ingredients list is very interesting this contains plant based surfactants along with rosemary, ginger , oregano and coriander extracts . Moreover the Menthol gives instant cooling effect to scalp and help to reduce itching and dandruff.


Though the bottle suggests to use this instead of shampoo. I like to wash my scalp with shampoo once before applying it on my wet scalp abd massaging in circular motions. I have used this multiple times and really surprise how dandruff has reduced considerably . Moreover my scalp feels less itchy and it does not become oily as fast as it did before

Aromatica has created a really economical 100% worry free formula which promotes scalp health. You can purchase Aromatica Rosemary Scalp Scrub 165g on Jolse.com

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LOOK VOGUE with Peep Toe Pumps in 2019 ~ FSJ Shoes

I have talked about clothes, bridal fashion and food festivals but never shoes so today I am going to do a post on shoes not just any shoes but Peep Toe Pumps that is the new trendiest footwear choice for 2019

Before I begin let me recommend you an amazing online website called FSJ Shoes. They provide WORLDWIDE shipping so that you enjoy the privilege of receiving best shoes at the comfort of your home.

Ever since their popularity in 1940's the peep toes have been a fashion favourite every few decade or so.  Pumps are one of the essential foot wear item that every women must own in her wardrobe . With the current popularity of peep toes on the fashion ramp. Peep toe pumps havd become a must have for this season. Peep toes add mystery to the feet as only a small part of the toe is visible. Moreover they make the feet appear slimmer and more graceful. The design ensures better grip and boosts confidence so that the wearer struts in style

Today's post will explore some cool peep toe pumps in various styles you can find online. First off  are peep toe pumps with ankle straps. These shoes look trendy and can be worn to any outdoor occasion. The straps add comfort and look edgy at the same time

Try basic black peep toe pumps to match any occasion and outfit. Peep toe pumps with tights can add sass to any outfit . Not only do they keep you warm in winters but peep toe pumps also add a few inches and make you look slender and tall. Pair them with a bridal gown, wear them to a club or go dancing

For those of you want to leave a striking impression at a party peep toe pumps with low heels is a great choice. If black is a little dull for you try Red Peep toe pumps. The color is definitely not for the faint hearted. Red pumps boost sex appeal, and makes one look attractive.

FSJ shoes is not a stranger to women shoes world. Functional since 1998 FSJ shoes have created countless shoes designs which are both modern and fashionable. Their shoes promise of comfort , quality and sophisticated designs that you cant find else where
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Tuesday, 19 February 2019

[Review] IOPE UV Shield Sun Stick Foundation SPF50+ PA+++

Stick foundations have been around for a really long time. Infact my first every memory of makeup was watching my mother apply stick foundation on her face every morning


Today's review is on a 2 in 1 product which serves the purpose of both a sun stick and foundation. Even though I am a big fan of cushion foundations I wanted to give the stick foundations a try because in my head stick foundations were those product which were either too greasy and heavy or very dry and intensely pigmented base makeup used by stage artist or TV anchors.


But IOPE UV Shield Sun Stick Foundation proved all of my misconceptions about stick foundations wrong. I will get into that later but first let me start with the packaging


Features
A multi-purpose sun stick that protects the skin from UV rays and covers skin imperfections at the same time.
You can always carry the stick around to apply it whenever and wherever your skin is exposed to UV rays.
V.D Booster™ strengthens skin barrier to relax the skin from exposure to UV ray for healthy care.



This has a very minimal packaging ( quite similar to sun sticks) there is small twist mechanism at the bottom to roll up the product. IOPE added a small pamphlet in the box which has details in both Korean and English. Over all the quality of plastic is good and 15g is fair considering Sun sticks must be used within a duration of 1 yr


This sadly comes in one universal shade only. The color leans towards fair/peachy side. Personally It worked with my skin color as I have fair skin but those with deeper skin color might consider putting foundation/bronzer on top or skipping this altogether.
The stick has a very creamy formula and glides on like a dream. The wide design of the stick allows for a quicker application. You can use a foundation brush or sponge to blend this out but I have noticed that fingers blend just as good.  This has mild scent to it quite similar to nivea cream.


IOPE UV Shield Sun Stick Foundation gives semi matte finish which later turns dewy after 4 hrs ( when the natural oil/sebum seeps through the pores) .  The formula is creamy but not greasy or heavy . Infact its thin, light weight and sits nicely on skin without accentuating pores or dry spots. In terms of coverage it leans sheer to medium. I could still my acne scars after application so using a concealer on top is a good option if you have any problem area that need coverage


The formula stays put for 6 hrs. Though my T zone looked a little oily after 3-4 hrs. I think you can probably strech out the wear time by setting it with a sebum control powder on top. looking at the sun block aspect SPF50+ PA+++ is good and will prevent sun damage


I wouldn't recommend building this up because it looks cakey on layering but I think this makes a great go to suncare product for outdoor activities like hiking, sports or a day on a beach. I personally love this for quick touch ups, or for hiking when I know I will sweat a lot and will be exposed to sun too.


Overall its a really good products with a really well executed concept the only thing which could makes this extraordianry would be addition of more shades to the range so that more skin tones could enjoy this.

IOPE UV Shield Sun Stick Foundation is available Jolse.com for purchase
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Monday, 18 February 2019

[Review] TONYMOLY Double Cover Pact SPF50+ #01 Skin Beige

If there is one thing that I run fast through after eyebrow pencils it has to be powder pacts. Powder pacts are great for quick touch ups, reducing shine and sebum and as a substitute when one feels too lazy to put on foundation.

Starting with the packaging its similar to the cushion foundation pact a lot. The dark blue looks great paired with gold details. Inside the pact is a fluffy puff. Personally I like to apply powder with a big fluffy brush to set my makeup or use a beauty blended when I want more coverage but I think this puff is good quality and works great. I love the fact that the compact feels sturdy and there is a nice  size mirror included

Features
A smart cover method that absorbs only the oil on the surface of the skin and turn the skin into radiant.
It covers uniformly and perfectly from dirt to pores with high covering power.
It does not get cakey and is applied without drying to provide a comfortable feeling

Ingredients:
Zinc oxide, Bis-chelated hexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyltriazine 'titanium dioxide, hexapeptide-1 t-effective ingredient] zinc oxide, ethylcyclohexyloxycinnamate, bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol ethoxyphenyltriazine ~ (google translate )


The powder feels soft on touch. I chose shade 01 #skin beige which is perfect for fair skin color.  The powder is finely milled and pressed in the compact. It may be soft but it does not kick up dust or crumble easily.

This powder is opaque and pigmented. I was really surprised how pigmented it came off on first swipe. On Day 1  I applied this on top of foundation and liked how it gave me extra coverage and made my skin look brighter.  I didn't control sebum on my face as much as the cosrx centella powder but my face looked matte for 3 hrs.

On Day 2 I wore this on its own as a powder and I was shocked how it covered up pores and blemishes on my face. I could still see some acne scars but  they looked less prominent. My skin looked fresh and natural and it didn't look like I was wearing much makeup. Infact after 3 hrs my skin looked brighter and no one could figure out if I had any powder on :)


My biggest gripe with many western base makeup products like foundation, powder and concealer is that they oxidize to an orange color after few hours and look weird but thankfully Asian makeup is formulated differently and they remain unchanged. TONYMOLY Double Cover Pact powder color remained the same till the end of the day and I didn't notice any oxidation. Nor could I detect any scent in it

Powders are notorious for clogging pores and causing breakouts. Though I couldn't see any hypoallergenic or non comedogenic claim on the box this didn't cause any breakouts or aggregate acne. On the Box Tony Moly advices to use this on top of foundation for extra coverage an setting make up but I think you can use this on its own for a minimal makeup look.

You might enjoy this if you like a powder which adds extra coverage to your foundation or if you are looking for an easy way to touch up your makeup during the day. TONYMOLY Double Cover Pact is available at Jolse website

Korean makeup products can also be purchased at Jolse amazon 
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