Tory Burch Lip Color in "Pas du Tout" | Review

Tory Burch Lip Color in Pas du Tout Review Hello readers~! I've been MIA for awhile... I'm back~! I will reply to all the emails and questions you readers sent to me soon. P.S.: Please forgive me for the late response. :x

Today's post is going to be a review of the Tory Burch Lip Color lipstick.

The Tory Burch Lip Color range has 12 distinctive shades — each designed to flatter a variety of skin tones. Extending from the original signature lip color, Pas du Tout, the collection ranges from tomboy neutrals to feminine pinks and bold brights. This modern formula represents the ideal balance of sheer yet vivid color and rich texture with a weightless finish.

The lipstick is encased in a rectangular case with gold and orange fretwork design.

It looks like a super-chic accessory in itself. Absolutely gorgeous~! ♥

It is available in 12 shades. I got it in the original signature shade, Pas du Tout. 

Fun Fact: Pas du Tout — Tory's signature color named after the French version of "she loves me, she loves me not" (a game of pulling petals off a daisy).

The lipstick bullet has Tory Burch's logo embossed on it and has a faint, pleasant scent. The shade, Pas du Tout, comes in a universally flattering pinky-peachy nude tone with subtle beautiful gold shimmer.

Here are the swatches from 1 to 5 and 10 swipes, with and without flash:

As you can tell from the swatches, this shade is ultra sheer. It would take 3 or more swipes to make it noticeable on lips; however, it doesn't really give much color to the lips — I guess that's the only drawback.

On the positive side, it is a fairly moisturizing lipstick with a very creamy-balmy texture, that glides on smoothly and melts onto the lips. It doesn't highlight lip lines or dryness, and doesn't leave a sticky after-feel. I find the color has an average lasting power; some touch-ups are needed after eating and/or drinking.

Overall, I love it! I love how it enhances my lips color, keeping them looking natural, smooth and moist. Sometimes, I would top it off with a lip gloss for an extra sheen. I think it is a perfect ultra-sheer nude shade for everyday wear, and would look good on many skin tones.

If you have pigmented lips or if you are looking for a lipstick that gives an intense color, this shade isn't for you.

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Innisfree No-Sebum BLUR PRIMER | Review

Innisfree No-Sebum BLUR PRIMER Previously, I did a review on the Innisfree No-Sebum Blur Pact - if you haven't read it, click to check it out!

And today, let's talk about the Innisfree No-Sebum Blur Primer — a primer that is designed to control sebum, cover pores and fine lines, leaving the skin with a smooth texture and bright complexion.

The main features of this product:
- smoothes out uneven pores and fine wrinkles, achieving a clear and smoother skin.

- contains natural minerals from Jeju and natural originated mint to control the oil-moisture balance of the skin, allowing the skin to remain soft and smooth, as well as allowing makeup to last longer.

The product comes in a matte ivory colored tube with a brown twist-off cap.

The primer can be easily extracted from the tube.

It has a soft creamy-balmy texture that glides on the skin easily. And it doesn't feel greasy at all.

How To Use:

Squeeze an appropriate amount and spread thinly over areas with visible pores after skincare and gently pat to finish.

*Note: It may cause flakes or clumps when used excessively, so use only a small amount and spread in a thin layer by tapping.

Tried and Tested + Verdict

P.S: I applied this primer only on half of my face.

- Blur Pore Effect
*Take note that the following are zoomed-in pictures; therefore, my pores may look bigger in the pictures than they seem in real life. 

Only No-Sebum Blur Primer was applied.

Well, I couldn't really tell the difference in the appearance of my pores when I looked into the mirror after applying the primer. I only noticed the difference from the zoomed-in pictures taken by my camera. As you can tell from the zoomed-in pictures, it did blur my pores but the effect was very minimal — not as significant as the Blur Pact.

- Oil-Control
It does slow down and control skin's oil production, as I've noticed the side without the primer was more prone to oiliness in a few hours than the side with the primer. Therefore, I concluded that it has an excellent oil control effect.

- Smoothes Out Skin and Allows Makeup To Last Longer
My skin did feel silky smooth to the touch on the side with the primer and it helps make-up to goes on smoothly and last longer.

Overall, it does blur the pores but slightly... In my opinion, it works better in controlling oil and helping make-up to last longer.

So if you want a primer that gives a more extreme blur pores effect, this may not be the best option — well, I believe there are better ones out there. Pick this if you are looking for a primer that will keep oil under control and doesn't cause breakouts.

Besides, I find this No-Sebum Blur Primer works really well together with the No-Sebum Blur Pact. The Blur Pact softens the look of the pores while this Blur Primer controls oil and shine, helping makeup to stay put. = Perfect match~!♥

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Innisfree No-Sebum BLUR PACT | Review

Innisfree No-Sebum BLUR PACT Review Today, I will be doing a review on a new product from Innisfree called the "No-Sebum Blur Pact".

Last year, I did a review on Innisfree No-Sebum Mineral Pact and I'm sure most of you readers are familiar with that product.

So similar to No-Sebum Mineral Pact, this No-Sebum Blur Pact is also a compact finishing powder designed to control sebum; but this creates a smooth and radiant skin texture with pore blurring effect.

The main features of this product:
- covers unevenness caused by pores and fine lines for a smooth and radiant skin texture.

- contains natural minerals from Jeju and natural originated mint to control the oil-moisture balance of the skin and make it more healthier-looking.

- comes in natural shade that provides a natural look and suited for all skin tones.

The pact comes in a matte ivory colored round case with a snap-on lid/case. It is very compact and light, which makes it convenient to carry around in your purse/bag.

It has a built-in mirror and comes with a soft powder puff, ...

... along with a plastic cover divide between where you keep the puff and powder itself.

This is how the powder looks in the pact:

Unlike the Mineral Pact that comes in white powder; the powder of Blur Pact has a translucent light beige color that gives a natural finish. No need to worry about having a white cast on your face when applied too much of powder.

It blends perfectly with my skin tone.

It blends perfectly with light/medium-toned skin, but I'm not sure if it would blends well with darker skin tones.

How To Use:

In the last stage of your daily make-up routine, use powder puff to gently apply onto entire face or sebum concentrated areas.

Tried and Tested + Verdict

- Blur Pore Effect:

*Take note that the following are zoomed-in pictures; therefore, my pores may look bigger in the pictures than they seem in real life.

Only No-Sebum Blur Pact Powder was applied.

I noticed a difference in the appearance of my skin after applying this powder. Not only does it leave my skin looking smoother and mattified, it also blurs out my pores, as you can tell from the zoomed-in pictures. It did not hide my pores completely, to be honest. However, it did make them look less apparent. In conclusion, it does what it claims!

- Oil-Control
It does control sebum, but in my opinion, it is not as good as the Mineral Pact. P.S: The effectiveness may vary individually as it depends on the climate you live in and individual's skin sebum production rate.

- Coverage
It gives a sheer coverage and is unable to hide dark circles, redness and blemishes. If you want more coverage, this is not the one for you.

Overall, No-Sebum Blur Pact is a good translucent setting powder. I love how it smoothes out my skin and blurs out my pores, making them less noticeable without causing any breakouts. If you are looking for a powder that blurs out pores, this is it! It goes on great by itself, and even better with Innisfree No-Sebum Blur Primer. Check out my review on No-Sebum BLUR PRIMER.

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Review: Secret Key Secret Kiss Sweet Glam Tint Glow in Baby Pink

Secret Key Secret Kiss Sweet Glam Tint Glow~ I did a review on the shade Chic Burgundy the other day and here's the review on the shade Baby Pink.

P.S.: Both Chic Burgundy and Baby Pink are from the same product range. Apart from the color, they have identical features so if you find the content of the review of Baby Pink similar to the review of Chic Burgundy, please excuse it. 

Alright, let's start with the review of the shade Baby Pink.

Secret Key Secret Kiss Sweet Glam Tint Glow is a 2-in-1 Balm + Tint lipstick that contains lanolin oil, which offers a powerful moisture effect to the lips, keeping the lips moisturized all day without any dryness. It glides on smoothly, giving the lips a natural and delicate coloring and also, creates a protection veil to lips to keep lips smooth with luster.

How To Use: Apply a moderate amount to dry lips frequently.

The packaging of Secret Key Secret Kiss Sweet Glam Tint Glow is similar to Dior Addict Lip Glow.

As mentioned in the review of Chic Burgundy, I have said that Baby Pink is more like a dupe to Dior Addict Lip Glow; however, I do not own a Dior Addict Lip Glow so I can't really compare... But I did some research, I find not only the packaging looks very much identical, the shade looks alike as well. I will touch on that later.

Sweet Glam Tint Glow Baby Pink does not have any artificial scent or taste.

Swatches + Tried and Tested

Like Chic Burgundy, Baby Pink also has a balmy texture that glides on smoothly.

Here's the swatches of 1 to 5 and 10 swipes with and without flash:

with flash

without flash

Previously, I have mentioned about the shades of Secret Key Sweet Glam Tint Glow and Dior Addict Lip Glow look alike. So here's a picture of the swatch of Dior Addict Lip Glow that I found from google:

Source: http://babybuuny.egloos.com/9670755

Both colors look the same to me but I doubt the outcome on lips would be the same. :x
What do you think?

P.S.: I will not be showing the swatches on my lips as the outcome of lipstick color on lips may vary individually because our lips colors are different.

The shade Baby Pink is very sheer yet buildable and it reacts with the chemistry of your lips to create a customized pink shade. On my lips, it changes to a bright pink tint but it still remains natural-looking.

Not to mention, it is very moisturizing like a balm and it gives the lips a lustrous tint, without sinking into the lines on the lips or leaving the lips feeling sticky. Speaking of tint, it may fade after eating or drinking but it won't be gone totally. There will still be a hint of color left on the lips which can only be removed with a makeup remover. Hence, I concluded that the color has an excellent long-lasting staying power. There is nothing I dislike about!

Overall, in my view, Sweet Glam Tint Glow in the shade of Baby Pink looks extremely natural when applied sheer and when layered. It is a pink lippie that is wearable for everyday whether for school or work.

Secret Key Secret Kiss Sweet Glam Tint Glow is available in six other shades:
Juicy Orange, Chic Burgundy, Fushia, *Lollipop Pink, *Punky Pink, *Vanilla Peach

- *2015 new color

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Review: Secret Key Secret Kiss Sweet Glam Tint Glow in Chic Burgundy

Secret Kiss Sweet Glam Tint Glow in Chic Burgundy In my 2015 January to March Haul post, I have shared about Secret Key Secret Kiss Sweet Glam Tint Glow in Baby Pink and Chic Burgundy.

And I said that I will write a review...... So here it is~! Well, I will be reviewing them both in two separate reviews. In this post, I will start off with the shade Chic Burgundy.

Secret Key Secret Kiss Sweet Glam Tint Glow is a 2-in-1 Balm + Tint lippie that contains lanolin oil, which offers a powerful moisture effect to the lips, keeping the lips moisturized all day without any dryness. It glides on smoothly, giving the lips a natural and delicate coloring and also, creates a protection veil to lips to keep lips smooth with luster.

How To Use: Apply a moderate amount to dry lips frequently.

In case some of you haven't heard of this brand... Secret Key is a korean skin care and cosmetics brand.

Here's how the lipstick looks like:

The packaging of Secret Key Secret Kiss Sweet Glam Tint Glow is kind of similar to Dior Addict Lip Glow.

Seeeeeee~ Does look alike eh?

I find the shade Baby Pink, which I will be reviewing next, is more like a dupe of Dior Addict Lip Glow. For more info, stay tuned for the review on Baby Pink.

Well, kick Baby Pink aside. Let's get back to Chic Burgundy.

So from the name, you must have guessed it is a red lipstick. And you're right!

Actually, the color of lipstick bullet is slightly darker than what's shown in the picture.

It doesn't have any artificial scent or taste.

Swatches + Tried and Tested

It has a balmy texture that glides on really smoothly. The color may look dark on the bullet but when applied on lips or on skin, the color is totally different!

Take a look at the swatches of 1 to 5 and 10 swipes with and without flash:

with flash

without flash

P.S.: I will not be showing the swatches on my lips as the outcome of lipstick color on lips may vary individually because our lips colors are different.

If you are interested in how the color would turned out on lips, you can check out the video below:

Drag to 0:30~

Are you surprised by how pretty the color turned out to be?

To tell the truth, I didn't pick up Chic Burgundy at first because the bullet in the tube looks really dark and scary. It's the kind of lippie I would avoid trying as I am not a person who would wear a dark or bold shade on my lips.

However, I decided to do a swatch and to my surprise, the color is not too intense with one swipe; in reality, it is actually very sheer yet buildable! It has a pink undertone when applied sheer yet it can be built up to a very bold, pigmented red shade!

So with that being said, NEVER judge a lipstick color by the bullet!

I must say that Chic Burgundy is a really gorgeous color! Not to mention, it is very moisturizing like a balm and it gives the lips a lustrous tint, without sinking into the lines on the lips or leaving the lips feeling sticky. Speaking of tint, it may fade after eating or drinking but it won't be gone totally. There will still be a hint of color left on the lips which can only be removed with a makeup remover. Hence, I concluded that the color has an excellent long-lasting staying power. Frankly speaking, there is nothing I dislike about!

Overall, in my view, Sweet Glam Tint Glow in the shade of Chic Burgundy can look extremely natural when applied sheer and much more dramatic when layered. Perfect red lippie for everyday and a night out!

Secret Key Secret Kiss Sweet Glam Tint Glow is available in six other shades:
Baby Pink, Juicy Orange, Fushia, *Lollipop Pink, *Punky Pink, *Vanilla Peach

- *2015 new color

x---x

*Update*: Check out my review on Baby Pink

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Review: The Face Shop Face It Power Perfection BB Cream SPF 37/PA++ (#02 Natural Beige)

The Face Shop Face It Power Perfection BB Cream SPF

Description: A BB Cream providing total skin treatment, such as reenergizing the skin through power lifting, power moisturizing and power correction effects, to achieve "POWER PERFECTION SKIN" by imparting proactive care to overall skin problems, including bagginess, roughness and dryness. Containing omega-3 and the Vita-skin Complex, the BB Cream enables the skin tone to appear moisturized and radiant with a smoother skin texture. With an airy touch formula, it adheres in a thin layer as light as air yet flawless covers skin blemishes for a lustrous, healthy skin appearance.

Claims:
- wrinkle improvement
- whitening
- sunscreen triple-functional cosmetic

Directions/Usage:
After basic skincare, dispense an adequate amount and apply evenly to the skin. Then, pat lightly with the palms for full absorption.

Net Weight: 40ml (Available in 20ml too)

Price: ...sorry I forgot... 

Packaging:

The tube of BB Cream is packed in a matte metallic purple rectangular paper box.

The tube itself is made with different shades of purple. It has a matte metallic purple plastic body with a light purple plastic pump and a transparent purple plastic cap. 

(oh yeah~ I ♥ purple!)

Scent: 

Mild scent. Nothing unbearable.

Consistency & Color:

The BB Cream has a light-medium creamy texture, which is very easy to smooth out and blend into the skin. It comes in two shades — 01 Light Beige and 02 Natural Beige. As you probably know Koreans have really fair skin tones so 01 Light Beige would be too light for me. Therefore, I got it in 02 Natural Beige. I think it matches my skin tone better. It has a grey-ish pinkish beige undertone despite that, it does not leave a grey cast on me. It oxidizes to my skin tone perfectly.

Coverage:
The coverage strength is excellent in my view. Though it does not 100% fully cover the light brown-ish post acne marks and redness of the zits, it does kind of lighten the appearance of the marks and the zits' redness. If I have to give a rating on the coverage, then it would be around high average range. FYI, I do still need a concealer to give a boost in coverage but nowadays, besides the dark circles, I don't really put on concealer on the blemishes. Despite not using concealer on the blemishes, no one commented on them or pointed them out so I think the coverage is excellent.

Coverage Demonstration:
The following pictures would probably give you an idea on the coverage strength of this BB Cream.

Coverage test on a scar on my mom's arm

You can compare the pictures BEFORE and AFTER the application of The Face Shop Face It Power Perfection BB cream. — With the application of BB cream (After), the appearance of the scar has lightened and covered up to 80-85% of it. I guess with the application of concealer, the scar would probably be hidden perfectly~ lol.

Oiliness and Oil-Control:
As you know, I live in hot and humid country so I get shine on my face very easily. With that said, I really can't tell whether it's the BB cream or the weather that causes the oiliness on my face. I would conclude that both the BB Cream and the weather play a part on the cause of the shine~ As for the oil-control ability, I can't tell either...but I don't think it provides any helps on oil control. Anyway, it's not an issue to me.

Likes:
- contains SPF 37 PA++
- gives a natural look
- high average coverage
- whitening brightening effect
- leaves skin looking dewy, semi-matte
- does not dry out the skin
- does not cause breakouts on my skin
- lasts-long
- easy to apply (blends in)
- suits all skin types including sensitive skin
- available in 20g and 40g

Dislikes:
- accentuate on dry, flaky skin
- range comes in only two shades

Neutral:
- not waterproof

- does not smooth out/cover pores; accentuate pores instead

- does not seem to have any oil control

Verdict: I usually apply 1 or 2 thin layers of this Power Perfection BB Cream with hands using gentle patting motion. It gives me a natural look(dewy, semi matte) with high average coverage that lasts pretty long, without being too heavy or drying out my skin. Also, it does not cause any breakouts on me. It claims to whiten skin but I'm not sure about that. I think it brightens up the skin rather than whitening. As for wrinkle claims, I can't comment much cause I don't have any wrinkles at the moment.

On the downside, it does accentuate on dry, flaky skin but don't get me wrong! This BB Cream suits all skin types including dry skin. BUT IF you get flakiness on your face very often, I would advise to solve the flakiness problem first prior applying this BB Cream. Hmm..., well, I don't think there is any BB Cream that won't accentuate the appearance of flakiness (correct me if I'm wrong...). On the other hand, this BB Cream does also emphasis on pores. Hence, if you care about the appearance of pores, it would be better if you use a pore cover primer beforehand.

All in all, I absolutely love this BB Cream despite the downside. FYI, this has been part of my routine for 2+ years. I have been using this BB Cream since I have bad acne and up to present, I am still sticking to it. Oh and... my mom uses this BB Cream too! It's one of our holy grail makeup products!♥

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Review: Innisfree No-Sebum Mineral Pact

Innisfree No-Sebum Mineral Pact

Description: This sebum control powder pact is designed to portray soft and powdery complexion. Oil-controlling and skin-perfecting powder sets foundation and blots away excess shine to keep skin fresh and matte. Translucent powder contains Jeju natural mineral and natural originated mint, ingredients that refresh and nourish skin with every use.

6-free formula: Paraben, Talc, Mineral Oil, Artificial Dye, Animal ingredients, Synthetic fragrance

Claims to do:
- Sebum absorbing and Sebum control — Excellent powder for controlling sebum that soaks up excess oil and sweat.

The usage:

Directions:
1. In the last stage of your daily skincare routine, use powder puff gently apply onto entire face or sebum concentrated areas.
2. This product may also be used in the last stage of makeup or as desired throughout the day when shine becomes a concern.

Price: ₩10000 (est. around SGD$12)

Packaging:

Innisfree No-Sebum Mineral Pact is packed in a box made of recycled materials.

The pact itself comes in a very pretty matte mint green colored round case with a snap-on lid/case.

The pact comes with a powder puff, which I don't really use. I prefer to use a powder brush instead.

Between the powder puff and the powder itself, there is a plastic protective cover to protect the powder and at the same time, to allow the powder puff to 'sit on' without getting contact with the powder.

The powder has some design prints being stamped/crafted on it's edge.

Consistency & Color:

With proper blending, it does not leave a white cast.

It is a white translucent powder but no worries... As I've said before, with proper blending, it does not leave a white cast. Also, the powder is very fine so it does not cake up unless your skin is dry or you apply too much. Just bear in mind not to use too much. A light coat will be sufficient.

Scent:
Very faint, mild minty scent.

Sebum Absorption:
In my opinion, pretty excellent! Instantly leaves the skin shine-free right after application.

Oil-Control:
below average to average (I'll explain later in the verdict section)

Likes:
- the recycle concept
- 6-free formulas
- the minty scent
- fine translucent powder
- excellent sebum absorption power
- does not leave a white cast
- leave skin matte
- does not cause breakouts

Dislikes:
- might not have excellent oil control for people who have super oily skin and/or live in ultra hot and humid country

Neutral:
- low coverage

Verdict: In my opinion, Innisfree No-Sebum Mineral Pact does not have excellent oil control for me. My skin, especially my nose area, become oily right after 1.5 to 2 hours and I do need to touch up. But if I'm in an air-conditioned room or during cold/cooling, raining days, then I do not have to touch up that quick. I only need to touch up every 3+ hours. Hence, I think the oil control function is average.

Well, I guess how good the oil control function depends on individual's skin oil production. One factor to take into consideration is the weather and temperature .aka. climate. As you (probably) know, I live in ultra hot and humid country so my skin gets oily super easily and fast. Thus, in my view, the oil control effect may vary individually depending on the climate you live in.

On the positive side, it does have excellent sebum absorbing power! I like how fast it helps to absorb sebum right after application. It's like instantly leaving my skin shine-free and matte-looking. This has somewhat similar function like an oil-blotting sheet just that this is in a powder form which gives you a matte-look. By the way, if you care more about coverage, then this might not suit you as this has pretty low-coverage.

The Innisfree No-Sebum comes in pact form and also in loose powder form. Apparently, I got the pact one because I really hate using loose powder as it tends to get messy easily. I think pact will be much more at ease to bring around without needing to worry about spillage. Anyway, both loose powder and pact are travel-friendly. They are small in size and lightweight, in short, portable which is very convenient to carry them around in your purse/bag.

Update on 29th August 2015: 
Check out my review on Innisfree No-Sebum BLUR PACT.

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