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Rare Beauty Products Review

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First of all, I am a huge Selena Gomez fan, so when I heard that she launched her own beauty brand, then I obviously couldn't wait to get my hands on these products. Only downside is that they don't sell any products in Estonia nor in the neighbour countries, so I had to patiently wait until I could finally travel! Anyways the holy day came when I went to Paris and the first store I visited was Sephora. Nowadays cosmetics cost enough that I didn't grab everything, but tried to choose wisely. Also their formula is vegan and cruelty-free! Stay Vulnerable Glossy Lip Balm in Nearly Mauve This incredible lip balm + lip gloss consistency really hydrates the lips while giving you a lovely glossy finish. I really enjoy it on my lips and love the light mauve tone as I don't have anything like it. 10/10 would recommend and buy other shades as well. Lip Soufflé Matte Lip Cream in Courage & Inspire When in Paris I obviously had to get the most popular and Selena's favourite...

Dermaceutic Radiance Brightening Cream - Review

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How to get rid of acne scars? This product might actually be the answer. Dermaceutic Radiance Brightening Cream contains Kojic Acid, Arbutin, Niacinamide, Salicylic and Mandelic Acids - the ultimate skin brightening combo! This brightening cream gently exfoliates the skin and thus helps with uneven skin texture and skin tone. This cream is a bit different from your usual skincare products as it is recommended to use as a treatment for 3 months at a time and slowly introducing it to your routine. Dermaceutic Radiance Brightening Cream   I got this in a small tester tube, but it lasted for at least 8 uses and results appeared already the next day. Every morning after using this, my skin had a lot less redness, pigmentation was less noticeable, acne had calmed and my complexion had a nice glow. I am definitely putting the full-size product on my wishlist, this seems like a miracle cream for my scarred skin.

Dermaceutic Light Ceutic Toning Night Cream - Review

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To try something different for my skin, my cosmetologist introduced me to Dermaceutic. The Light Ceutic Skin Toning Night Cream contains 8% Glycolic Acid, 4% Phytic Acid and Vitamin C, which are more targeted towards irregular and dull complexion. For my acne-prone skin with acne scars this should also help and lighten them. Price 41€ I apply this serum-like toning cream after cleansing and before moisturising. One pump is enough to cover most of the face. At first the toning cream felt a bit strong/harsh due to the Glycolic Acid's exfoliating properties, but hasn't caused any sensitivity. The Glycolic Acid and Vitamin C both have a brightening effect and make my skin feel smooth. While I quite like this product, this is still not a match for my hormonal acne, but helps with acne scars and my skin heal faster. So I'd suggest this to anyone dealing with a dull and/or irregular complexion and acne scars, but it won't do much to keep acne at bay.

Shiseido Mattifying Compact Powder SPF15 - Review

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While a glowy dewy look would be a dream, my oily skin is there to remind me that matte is better for me. It's my first time ever using Shiseido's products, but let's just say that this powder really set high expectations for them. I usually don't spend this much on a mattifying powder, but for a no make-up day, I'd like to keep my oiliness away with a powder that has SPF, is super mattifying and provides a light coverage. So after reading the good reviews, I had to splurge for this.  Shiseido Pureness Matifying Compact Oil-Free I got the shade 'Light Ivory', which is a bit dark for me, but still manages to look natural. I'd say the coverage is buildable to a medium. I don't like to use the applicator that comes with the package, so to keep powder fallout to a minimum, I lightly tap a kabuki brush on and then press onto my face. This has a lot of fallout, so I'd suggest being gentle and careful.  I couldn't believe how matte this kept my supe...

BioNike Acteen Sun Cream-Gel SPF 50+ - Review

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Sun is out and summer's heating up, so another sunscreen review only seems right! This time I purchased the BioNike Acteen Sun Cream-Gel SPF 50+. My main reason for choosing this was that it is targeted towards acne-prone skin with sebum-regulating active ingredients. The cream-gel formula has a dry and mattifying feel, so it's perfect for oily skin. Another plus is that it's water-resistant!  Price 14,85€ While the texture isn't my favourite for spreading, the sunscreen's matte, but slightly glowy finish won my heart. It feels really lightweight and doesn't leave a white cast. Probably one of the best sunscreens for dealing with acne. After a few hours my oily skin still comes through with the warm weather, but this keeps my face feeling comfortable. BioNike as a reputable pharmacy brand has my trust for high protection from UVA, UVB and IR rays. I would personally love to explore more sunscreens, but this is definitely on my repurchasing list.

Inika Organic Loose Mineral Foundation SPF25 - Review

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This product deserved a separate post, because it has been here for me for almost two years and I couldn't be more grateful. My cosmetologist swears by Inika's products, saying they're a bit cheaper alternative to Jane Irendale. Currently I own two of these mineral foundations and one travel-sized version.  The first shade I purchased was Unity P1, which was a bit darker than my natural skin tone, but it was perfect for summer. The travel-sized foundation is shade Unity N1 and I can say that they are quite different. The P1 is more pinkish (hence the P) and for me it seemed a bit lighter, while N1 seems darker with its more yellow undertones. The second time I bought a shade lighter Grace P1 that is my perfect match. Inika Organic Loose Mineral Foundation SPF25  I love that this powder builds, so you can choose what kind of coverage you'd like. For those simple days I like to just apply a bit on my more problematic spots and any redness areas. If my skin is looking bett...

Babe Facial Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF50+ Dry Touch - Review

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With long-awaited summer approaching, I thought it's only appropriate to write about sun protection. Sun is still extremely harmful for your skin, in case you forgot, and applying SPF daily is recommended for a reason. So if you don't want to look 20 years older in the next 10 years with wrinkles and dark spots, I'd suggest you get on it asap. I religiously apply SPF, so using one that is great for my acne-prone oily skin is of high importance. Babe Facial Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 50+ Dry Touch  I always opt for and suggest buying SPF from a pharmacy, because most of the products sold are high quality and sensitive enough that they shouldn't cause any issues. This time I decided to try the Babe Facial Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF50+ Dry Touch. This sunscreen is also supposed to be water-resistant, colourant-free, hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested. The formula is enriched with soothing active ingredients and antioxidants (like vitamin E), so your skin should be happy. T...

La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 - Review

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This year winter has been an actual winter in Estonia, which we haven't seen in years. So while it's great to enjoy the cold and the snow, my skin hasn't reacted the same way. My super oily skin was feeling dry and extremely sensitive, having a lot of redness. Thankfully my TikTok algorithm knew and introduced this soothing balm by La Roche-Posay. While my cosmetologist says that their products usually contain many fillers, which can block your pores and cause even more acne, then the Cicaplast Baume B5 multi-purpose repairing balm is an exception as it is formulated for extremely sensitive skin. The main ingredient promoted is 5% panthenol for its soothing properties. La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 This balm doesn't leave my skin greasy, but sinks nicely into the skin, soothing any redness and irritation. What I love is that it leaves my skin quite matte. When I used this for about a week straight as a face moisturizer, I saw a difference in my skin. Redness and sen...

Things TikTok made me buy

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So about a year ago when the pandemic began and I had to sit at home, I found my way to TikTok (and actually posted a few). Though in the beginning it was mostly entertainment, now most of my feed is about advice, hacks and product recommendations. So of course I've tried out some of those products and I have to say I'm really impressed. These items have become essentials for me.  Here are the things TikTok made me buy: 1. Ariana Grande Cloud perfume This is apparently a cheap dupe for the famous Baccarat Rouge 540. I've never had the chance to smell it, but this Ariana Grande perfume lives up to the hype. It is so different from the floral and sweet I used to go for, but I love this burnt sugar scent that is so fresh. A bit more masculine, but I absolutely love it and I've even gotten a few compliments. Ariana Grande Cloud 2. Simple Modern Tumbler Cup This cup from Amazon is amazing. Used by Victoria's Secret supermodels, so why wouldn't it be. I love this cup ...

Dior Addict Lip Glow & Lip Maximizer - Review

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My first ever Dior product was the Lip Glow Color Reviver Balm in the shade 001 Pink. It was all thanks to Grace Helbig, who I don't really watch on Youtube, but the one video I saw, she talked about this amazing lip balm. And after reading about all the praising reviews, I just had to have it, though the price for a lip balm seemed a bit too much. I'm so glad I splurged! Dior Lip Glow has the perfect consistency for a lip balm and I love the sheer shade that lightly stains your lip. My lips are moisturised and have a lovely pink glow. Though the next time I'd choose a different more natural lip colour for me, because the pink is a bit bright for the simple everyday look.  For the past year I've had a slight lip gloss obsession and when I saw Dior Lip Maximizer Hyaluronic Lip Plumper, I just couldn't resist. This time I purchased the shade 004 Coral, which suits my skintone better, although the colour payoff is a lot lighter than the balm's. This is like a mix o...

milk_shake Incredible Milk - Review

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With winter upon us, my hair was feeling dry, so when reading about all the effects milk_shake's Incredible Milk should have, I just had to try it. This hair moisturising leave-in treatment has this tropical coconut-y scent and oily butter type formula. I spritz about 4 – 6 pumps on my hands and run it through my towel-dried hair. When it's completely dry I can definitely see the added shine and hydration. My hair is so much softer and feels healthier. It really does what it is supposed to and I love this little addition to my haircare routine.

Alfaparf Milano Semi di Lino Diamond Illuminating Shampoo and Conditioner - Review

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Alfaparf Milano is a recognized salon brand and actually using their products I was bleached blonde. When I learned that you can buy their hair care products for a great price and they have great reviews, my expectations were pretty high. The Diamond range is for normal hair. Their products are free from parabens, minerals, oils and sulfates. Price 11,95€ & 13,95€ The Illuminating shampoo and conditioner is supposed to detangle and give hair extreme shine and softness, containing many great ingredients. The scent is quite chemical, just like the scents in a hair salon.  I wash my hair just as instructed, but the results shockingly aren't as great for me as promised. It is surprising since most hair care products work for me pretty well. But these just don't. After my hair dries it's not as soft, maybe even feels more rough and lacks shine. However it makes it easier to work with my hair when it comes to hairstyles. But my hair gets greasy super fast. On the top of my he...

UPDATED skincare routine - being 20 and dealing with hormonal acne

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If you've read my blog before you know about my struggles with acne. Throughout the years I've tested many products, but my still skin isn't clear. It still has its better and worse days, but this has been my skincare routine for the past year that has helped me keep it somewhat under control with my almost monthly facial treatments. Currently I mostly have acne scars on my chin and cheek area and on average three bumps that come and go. *The links lead to my product reviews. AM 1. Bioderma Sensibio Micellar Water This micellar water is a staple in my skincare routine and I love to use it to remove all the oiliness that has surfaced on my skin by the morning. 2. pHformula A.C. Recovery I put only a little of this on my problem spots if necessary. 3. Babe Sunscreen or pHformula SPOT ON Moisture Balance moisturizer Babe Sunscreen SPF 50 was my must-have during the summer. Now that there's not as much sun and I don't spend so much time outside, I prefer to use the pHfo...

milk_shake Sweet Camomile Shampoo and Conditioner - Review

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I learned about milk_shake through my cosmetologist from whom I hear so much about all these great products and brands, so since she suggested it, it must be good. Milk_shake is a salon brand and has many shampoo and conditioner ranges. I chose the Sweet Camomile shampoo and conditioner (13–14€ each) to revitalize my bleached blonde hair. This sweet honey-camomile scented shampoo promises to revive highlights, soften, enhance the brilliance and vibrancy of blonde hair. I love that their products are paraben and sls/sles free. The scent of this shampoo is super sweet, but really nice as organic camomile and honey make me think of summer. The shampoo has this yellow see through gel-like formula, which foams nicely and cleans my hair well. The conditioner is the basic cream-like formula, which is super moisturising. After I let my hair air-dry, it always feels really clean and fresh. It starts getting greasy after 2–3 days of washing. My hair is more shiny and feels soft and moisturized. ...

Dermaceutic Mask 15 Oil Reducing Mask - Review

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This Dermaceutic Oil Reducing face mask contains 15% Glycolic Acid, Bentonite and 2% Salicylic Acid, so it's pretty powerful when it comes to ingredients. Depending on the supplier this mask costs around 30–40€ for the 50 ml pot. The description claims this face mask should remove dead skin cells and excess sebum, purify oily and combination skin, which it is recommended for. Introductions say to leave on for 2–4 minutes and use twice a week. This is another product recommended to me by my cosmetologist to help reduce inflamed bumps that still appear on my chin. Looking at the ingredients list it seemed like it should do at least something. I did as I was directed, which was wait two weeks after the facial and then apply on problematic spots for 20 minutes. This has a quite high % of Glycolic Acid and a powerful clay, so my skin was feeling the heat. For the last few minutes I applied the mask all over my face. The next day my inflammation and some pimples were actually reduced. My...

Madara Detox Ultra Purifying Mud Mask - Review

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Face masks are my Sunday evening must-haves to prepare for the next week. For my super oily skin clay and mud masks are essential. I haven't used Madara products before, but I've always wanted to try them, so when my Origins charcoal mask ran out, this was the perfect time. Price 24,99€ This Detox mask promises to absorbs excess oils and clarify your skin, eliminate any toxins or heavy metals, reduce inflammation, recharge skin with vitamins for a glowing complexion and retain hydration. Sounds too good to be true. So does it live up to all of that? I can say that I actually noticed a bit of a difference. Since it is a face mask, not a product that stays on your skin overnight, I didn't expect this to have that big of an effect on my skin, but I did notice that my skin seemed clearer and happier. Of course that can be the combination of all of my skincare products, but comparing to the Origins masks, this definitely had an actual effect. For me this mask didn't do wonde...

Simple Micellar Gel Face Wash - Review

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Suggested by Hyram. I think that's all there is to say hahah. Hyram is a skincare specialist and a Youtuber and he has recommended this product a lot. I've used Simple Skincare's products before and they really are as simple as they claim. Which is why Simple doesn't suit my complicated skin. But a cleanser on the other hand should be fine. They don't sell the Micellar Gel Face Wash in Estonia and there aren't many ways to order it online. Fortunately for me, a friend lives in the UK and she occassionally sends her family some stuff and I finally got to try this cleanser.  Like Hyram has said this gel wash is incredibly gentle, but still effective. It's lathers just enough and washes off easily, not drying out my skin, but still leaving me feeling fresh and clean. I don't think there's really much more to it. It seems to suit every skin type and the price is great, so I'd recommend it to everyone. 

Vita Liberata Ten Minute Tan - Review

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Since I don't tan my face and use SPF 50, I have to play catch up somehow and this Ten Minute Tan for face and body by Vita Liberata seemed like a good solution. I'll be honest though, I don't think I would've bought it, I got it for free.  At first the scent caught me off guard. It's not really pleasant, but luckily it disappears quickly. For body I'd definitely use an applicatior mitt, but for my face I didn't. The texture is pretty sticky and it isn't easy to apply, especially a hefty amount like it says. Also it seems that if using for your whole body, you'd run out of the product pretty fast. I somehow managed so spread this evenly across my face and I left this sticky yellowish/brownish film on for about 12 minutes before rinsing. It says that it takes 6 hours to develop, I saw results the next day. The next day I could also smell the DHA signature scent a bit. A lot of reviews said that this mask didn't work. For me it did, but probably be...

Lumene Self-Tan Drops - Review

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Who doesn’t want to stay pale while still wearing SPF 50 on your face daily? My two hands are in the air, can’t you see? Another product that promises to fix my issues and give me a nice sunkissed tan/glow. These Lumene concentrated drops are meant to be mixed with a night time moisturizer, so you can wake up with a nice little tan on your face. I simply mix 3 drops of this in the palm of my hand with my moisturizer and evenly apply on my face and blend down my neck. At first I was hesitant if the vitamin C would mix well with my anti-acne products, but I haven't had any issues yet. Since I use a minimal amount of moisturizer on my face, I wasn't sure how this would work, but still I woke up with a nice sunkissed glow on my face. I haven't tried building the tan up with this, because of my acne fighting regimen, but this could possibly work as this contains the classic self-tanning ingredient DHA, which left a mild self-tanner scent. I accidentally left a drop of this on my...

Sim DS Blond Shampoo - Review

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It's not always easy to find good and actually working anti-yellow products for cool blondes. A friend suggested this highly pigmented purple shampoo by a Finnish brand Sim. It says to leave on after massaging it into hair for 1–5 minutes depending on your desired results. It is also supposed to moisturize, add shine and volume. This shampoo is perfume free, vegan and dermatologically tested. Price 10,5€ To my surprise this actually worked very efficiently. The purple pigment is pretty strong, so it does stain cuticles/around the nails. Also while rinsing out the shampoo, be thorough. I've left the shower with purple stains on my scalp. It is rinseable though. At times it is even too powerful making my hair gray, so no need to leave it in for long. As a shampoo it also cleaned my hair well and wasn't drying. It doesn't leave purple streaks in my hair, which some other purple shampoos or masks have done. As a result my level 10 blonde hair has always been evenly cool ton...